Ask five people when they think it’s the right time to move to a retirement community and you’ll probably get five different answers. It’s one of the most common questions people ask when they first begin exploring senior living.
One will say, “We’re not there yet.”
Another will say, “Maybe in a few years.”
Someone else will tell you, “I’m ready now.”
The truth is that there isn’t a magic age. In fact, age usually isn’t what makes the decision. Lifestyle does.
Quick Answer
Many people begin exploring Life Care communities while they’re still active, independent, and enjoying retirement. The best time isn’t tied to a birthday. It’s when you have the opportunity to make a thoughtful decision, compare your options, and choose a community because it fits the life you want today, not because circumstances leave you with fewer choices.
The Better Question
People often ask, “What’s the best age to move?”
A more helpful question is: “What do I want retirement to look like over the next 20 years?”
For some people, the answer includes traveling more often. For others, it’s spending less time maintaining a home, being closer to friends, staying active, or being in proximity to and enjoying everything Fort Worth has to offer. Once you know the life you want, the timing often becomes much clearer.
Why So Many People Explore Senior Living Earlier
Nationally, many residents move to independent living in their late 70s or early 80s, but age alone doesn’t explain why people decide to move.
Many people begin exploring Life Care communities while they’re very independent because they have the freedom to compare communities, ask questions, and make decisions without the pressure of an immediate need.
They aren’t reacting to a crisis. Instead, they’re planning for a lifestyle.
Life Care Is About Much More Than Healthcare
One of the biggest misconceptions about a Life Care Community is that people move because they expect to need healthcare soon. Most don’t.
They’re looking for an active lifestyle, a smart plan for their future, and more opportunities to grow their social circle and enjoy retirement without the responsibilities of maintaining a larger home.
They want to spend an afternoon at the Kimbell Art Museum, meet friends for dinner in the Cultural District, catch a performance at Bass Hall, or take a walk along the Trinity Trails instead of worrying about home repairs or weekend chores.
Having quality care available onsite at a Life Care Community at predictable rates is an important part of Life Care. It’s just not the reason most people begin looking.
A Fort Worth Perspective
As the only Life Care Community in Fort Worth, The Stayton has welcomed many residents who say the same thing after moving in.
They don’t wish they’d waited. Many wish they’d started exploring their senior living options sooner because they discovered a lifestyle they hadn’t realized was available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best age to move to a Life Care Community?
There isn’t one “right” age. Many people begin exploring Life Care Communities while they’re active and independent, so they have time to compare options and choose a community that fits their lifestyle. And if you’re asking the question in the first place, it may be the perfect time to start exploring your options.
When do most people move to senior living?
Many residents move to independent living in their late 70s or early 80s, but everyone’s timeline is different. The best time depends on your goals, lifestyle, and what you want retirement to look like.
Should I wait until I need healthcare?
Many people choose a Life Care Community before they need healthcare because they’re looking for maintenance-free living, an active lifestyle, new friendships, and the reassurance of having a plan for the future.
Why is it helpful to plan early?
Planning early gives you more flexibility, more choices, and more time to explore communities without the pressure of an immediate health or housing need.
What makes The Stayton different?
The Stayton is the only Life Care Community in Fort Worth. Located in the heart of the Cultural District and backed by Buckner’s nonprofit mission, it combines an active, maintenance-free lifestyle with the confidence of a full continuum of care if it’s ever needed.
About The Stayton at Museum Way
You don’t want to pick just any community to live in. Choosing the right community is key. Residents at The Stayton at Museum Way by Buckner, Fort Worth’s only Life Care Community, have found a sense of connection, fulfillment, and enrichment living here, but don’t just take our word for it. Listen to their testimonials, join an upcoming event, or contact us today to see what living at The Stayton could be like for you.