Into a retirement home at 31: How Liz found a new life with retirees

Into a retirement home at 31: How Liz found a new life with retirees

In a remarkable move, 31-year-old Liz W. decided to move to a retirement home in Naples, Florida, after a breakup and due to the coronavirus pandemic. Liz, who previously lived in Philadelphia, was looking for a new apartment when her lease expired. Her decision was also influenced by the fact that her parents live in the retirement home, which made the move even easier for her. With her background story, the management of the retirement complex granted her an exception despite her age, as the minimum age for residents is normally 55 years. Liz now rents a spacious apartment with two bedrooms and bathrooms for about $2,000 a month. [Focus] reports that she enjoys the company of her older neighbors and describes them as helpful and friendly.

Liz W. lives in an environment that offers many advantages, but also comes with rules. For example, reporting requirements for overnight guests, a ban on glass in the pool area and specific regulations on the use of the laundry room are part of the shared house rules. Nevertheless, Liz finds the slow pace of life and the communal atmosphere in the retirement community extremely pleasant, which is a welcome change from her previous life in the city.

Loneliness in old age and the role of senior living communities

Liz’s decision reflects a broader trend that also highlights the emerging need for community housing for seniors. In many cases, older people struggle with loneliness, and senior living communities offer a sociable living community that addresses this challenge. According to [Nursing Aid], such a shared apartment can consist of 3 to 12 people who go about everyday life together and organize social activities. This not only creates a feeling of belonging, but residents also actively contribute to maintaining the community.

In senior shared apartments, residents have the opportunity to live in their own rooms or apartments, with the nursing staff being supported by on-site staff. These responsible persons do not take on any direct nursing activities, but rather ensure comprehensive care and organization within the shared apartment. The legal framework for establishing and moving into such a community is also particularly important.

Costs and support

The financial aspects are also interesting. Relatives of seniors who have a level of care can claim various subsidies for accommodation in a seniors' shared apartment, including a residential group surcharge of 224 euros per month. The individual costs for apartments in senior shared apartments vary depending on the location, amenities and rent index, which is of great importance for potential residents.

In summary, the combination of Liz W.'s personal decision and the general conditions of senior living communities opens up a new lifestyle for many older people, which both promotes social bonds and creates a pleasant living environment. This form of coexistence could become even more important in the future as society appreciates the value of communal life.