When should people consider downsizing or moving into a 55-plus community or a retirement community?
Most people think of downsizing to a condominium, or to an over 55 community as a first step. While downsizing is good, and enables you to free yourself from home maintenance, I personally think moving to a CCRC is a much smarter move. You can live independently in a vibrant community with fewer chores and the added benefit of having your future long-term care settled.
What are some of the most important things they should look at?
One of the most important aspects is the level of insurance (if any) offered by a retirement community. A not-for-profit community like RiverWoods is an insurance product. As a resident of our communities, if health needs ever change, enhanced levels of care like Assisted Living, Memory Support and Nursing Care are provided within the community at a cost well below market rate.
In addition, RiverWoods is considered pre-paying for future medical expenses, so a portion of the entrance fee and monthly service fees are tax deductible making it a smart financial decision.
Given the high demand for homes in the real estate market, has there ever been a better time for someone to make this move financially?
The real estate market is still hot in New Hampshire with low inventory across the state. The “off-season” can be a beneficial time to sell your home. This time of year, buyers are serious, and sellers can add closing stipulations about timing and costs. All these reasons can work to your advantage when moving to a CCRC.
How does living in a retirement community enhance a resident’s quality of life?
At RiverWoods, our residents often comment they wish they’d made the move sooner because life really is better in community. In addition to the services and amenities offered at every level, residents benefit from increased social opportunities. Research shows the importance of developing and keeping good relationships. With locations in Exeter, Manchester and Durham, there are a variety of options to choose from, and has the strong financial backing of the RiverWoods Group; the largest family of not-for-profit CCRCs in New Hampshire.
— Cathleen Toomey, vice president of marketing, The RiverWoods Group