When evaluating your needs, consider how much medical and personal care you require on a daily basis. Do you need regular medical check-ups or treatments that necessitate skilled nursing care? Or are your needs primarily in daily living assistance, such as help with bathing, dressing, and medication?

Understanding the extent of care you need now will help you determine whether a mostly autonomous setting like independent living is appropriate or if a more supportive one like assisted living or skilled nursing is necessary.

Assessing your ability to live independently is essential. Can you manage most of your daily tasks with little to no help, or do you find yourself needing assistance more frequently?

For those capable of living with minimal assistance, independent living in a community setting is ideal. However, if you’re finding daily tasks increasingly challenging, assisted living can offer just enough extra assistance to make each day easier.

Consider what makes your life fulfilling and enjoyable. Are social interactions, physical activities, or hobbies like gardening or swimming important to you? The right senior living community should offer amenities and activities that interest you and support your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Make sure the community you choose enriches your life with opportunities to engage in the activities you love.

Planning for the future is critical when selecting a senior living option. Based on your current circumstances, how likely are you to need more involved care in the coming years? Do you have any health conditions which increase the likelihood of needing assistance in the future?

A Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) like Friendship Village of Bloomington can be an excellent choice as it provides the flexibility to adjust the level of care as your health needs evolve, all within the same community.

Financial considerations are an important piece of any senior living arrangement. It's important to understand the full costs associated with each level of care—consider the upfront fees as well as potential long-term expenses. Check if the services and care levels match what you can afford while also considering the potential benefits of long-term care insurance and other financial resources.