25-EVD-003-01-Cost-Of-Waiting-Guide-85x11-DIGITAL-HIRES-PAGES[42] - Flipbook - Page 3
The reality, however, is that planning ahead allows for more options and greater control
over future choices. By deciding proactively how and where we plan to age, we are relieving
those we love of having to choose for us down the road. Because change is an inevitable
part of life. And ultimately, no one in our lives is better qualified to help us face the future
than we are.
BEHIND EVERY GOOD REASON IS A VALID EMOTION.
Facing the unknown can be frightening. And in a state of uncertainty, it’s easy to assume the
worst. To believe what we’ve been told. Or to base our impressions on old ideas. That’s long
been the case when people first consider a Life Plan Community such as Ensō Verde.
But when examined more closely, many of the assumptions we make about senior living
turn out to be incomplete or just plain wrong. For instance, the notion that aging in place
at home is a less stressful living option than moving is not always correct. Or that it’s
necessarily more affordable.
When we factor in the costs and advantages of different options, the picture that emerges
is more nuanced than it first appears. And the closer we look, the more questions we are
compelled to ask.
IT’S NEVER TOO SOON TO HAVE A PLAN IN PLACE.
For all the uncertainty surrounding life in retirement, there is one universal truth. Whether
we choose to stay at home, relocate to a smaller residence with a lower maintenance
lifestyle, move in with a relative or make the move into Independent Living at a Life Plan
Community such as Ensō Verde, sooner is almost always better. Because the sooner we make
a choice, the better we can enjoy and appreciate the benefits of the choice we’ve made.
THE SOONER WE ACT, THE MORE OPTIONS WE HAVE.
Although no one can predict the future with absolute confidence, it is a virtual certainty for
most of us that costs will grow higher and options grow fewer as we age. That’s why putting
off a decision today is, more than likely, just making a decision to spend more money and
exert less control over your circumstances tomorrow.
More than two thirds (69%) of residents reported that moving to a
Life Plan Community “somewhat or greatly improved” their social wellness.
The Age Well Study - Year 5 report by Mather Institute in collaboration with Northwestern University, 2023.
