It’s never too early to think about where you’ll want to live in retirement. If you’re already retired, evaluate whether you’re satisfied where you are now.
Everyone’s ideal of retirement is different: you may want to stay in a suburban house or move into a well-located urban apartment. Another option to consider: continuing care retirement communities where there are few chores, many activities, and health care when it’s needed.
If this sort of retirement appeals to you, start looking as soon as possible. If you wait until you’re sick or injured, you won’t be in a position to do careful screening. The best communities have lengthy waiting lists, so it’s vital to begin your search, pick the one that you favor, and submit your application.
Before you make any commitments, be sure you know all the terms of the contract. What extra charges will you incur if you need nursing care? Are the facilities adequate? What medical personnel will be available?
Choosing a retirement community involves a tremendous amount of work. If you think you might be interested in a continuing care community in a few years, begin looking while you still have time to evaluate different places carefully.
