Senior Living in Franklin, TN: How to Choose the Right Fit
To find the right senior living in Franklin, TN, you have a range of factors to consider. Deciding what level of care you're looking for is essential. Other considerations include the location, the amenities a community offers, and whether the residents seem friendly and engaged.
Franklin offers the convenience of a big city with the serenity of the suburbs. Located just minutes from Nashville, Franklin ranks among the top suburbs for retirement in the U.S.
As such, you'll find no shortage of senior living communities to choose from, but it's important to find one that supports the retirement lifestyle you've been waiting for.
What Questions Should I Ask When Selecting a Senior Living Community?
Choosing a Franklin, TN, retirement community is a major decision. Taking time to ask questions will help you find the best fit.
The first step is thinking about what you need and want; then you can gauge which community will best provide what you're looking for.
How Much Daily Support Will I Need?
The first question to think about is what level of support you'll need daily. This will determine which type of senior living community you should focus on.
Independent living (IL) is a good match for older adults who don't require assistance with activities of daily living, like dressing or eating, but are seeking a maintenance-free lifestyle. Independent living communities are designed with a range of amenities to improve your quality of life and a vibrant social calendar.
Seniors who need support with their daily activities can benefit from assisted living. Assisted living communities provide a higher level of support while promoting as much independence as possible.
Is This the Best Location for My Family and Me?
The location of the senior living community is an important factor to consider. If you currently live far from your children or other family, you may want to discuss with them whether moving closer would be a good option.
Look for a community with a convenient location that provides access to services like doctors and hospitals, as well as entertainment opportunities.
What Housing Options Does the Community Offer?
Senior living housing options can vary considerably from one community to another. Apartments are usually studios or one-bedroom units, with different floor plans available.
Ask how much freedom you have to customize your living space.
Is the Community Pet Friendly?
If you have a pet, you'll want to verify that you can bring it with you. Many communities allow pets, but you may need to follow certain restrictions. For example, dogs of a certain size and/or breed may not be permitted.
Ask whether you'll need to pay a pet fee and if the number of pets allowed is limited. Some communities offer pet therapy that allows you to benefit from interacting with animals even if you don't have a pet.
What Amenities Are Available?
A key consideration when making a community comparison is the available amenities. Common options include:
- Bistro/coffee bar
- Business center with computer access, printing, and copying
- Craft room
- Fitness room
- Game room
- Large screen TV lounge
- Library
- Patio, courtyard, or other outdoor space
- Salon and barbershop
- Walking paths
Be sure to ask about the dining options as well. Most communities serve meals in a restaurant-style dining room during certain hours each day.
If you enjoy some light meal preparation, apartments with kitchenettes may be available.
Do the Residents Seem Happy and Engaged?
One of the primary benefits of choosing IL is the opportunity to build friendships with people at the same stage of life. You want a community that feels comfortable.
When you visit a community, watch for signs such as:
- Residents smiling and interacting with each other
- Residents using common areas
- An activities calendar that seems enjoyable and aligned with your interests
The main question is whether you can imagine yourself being happy there.
Does the Community Fit My Budget?
The cost of a senior living community when compared to your budget is a vital consideration. The price depends on three main factors:
- Location
- Floor plan and apartment size
- Amenities and services
Be sure to ask what the monthly rate includes and whether the community has any other fees. When you compare the cost of senior living to the cost of maintaining a home, you may find that your expenses are lower in a retirement community.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Qualify for Independent Living?
Independent living is a suitable choice for seniors who don't need help with activities of daily living or daily medical support. As long as you meet the minimum age requirement for the community, you should qualify.
What Is the Best Age to Move into Independent Living?
Senior living communities typically have a minimum age requirement. Independent living may be open to people as young as 55, but 62 and 65 are other common age limits.
Instead of setting an arbitrary age for moving into independent living, though, use your health situation and family circumstances as a guide. Independent living is a good option when you don't need help with activities of daily living, but you're ready for a maintenance-free lifestyle.
Staff will handle housekeeping, yard work, and home maintenance, while you focus on enjoying the community's amenities and activities.
Does Medicare Cover Senior Living Care?
Medicare doesn't cover most costs associated with senior living. It provides some coverage for short-term skilled nursing care after certain types of hospital stays.
However, it doesn't cover any services considered "custodial care," which includes help with activities of daily living.
Find the Right Senior Living in Franklin, TN
To find senior living in Franklin, TN, that best fits your lifestyle, you must consider several factors. Senior lifestyle options range from independent living to assisted living and memory care.
You can find a community that meets your needs and feels like home.
Manor at Steeplechase is your trusted independent living community in Franklin. You'll enjoy amenities including a fitness center, game room, walking paths, a lounge with a large screen TV, and chef-prepared meals in our dining room. We offer supportive services through reputable third-party providers for additional help if necessary.
Schedule a tour of Manor at Steeplechase today to see how easy it is to make our newly renovated community your new home.