The concept of retirement living is now experiencing a massive shift. The era of retreating to a nursing home or a retirement community upon reaching senior age is now coming to a slowdown. An increasing number of elderly adults don’t want to be isolated from their friends, family and community just because they’re ageing – and their loved ones fully support this stance as well.
However, the reality of ageing is that no matter how much your spirit is willing to continue with your old ways, the flesh is starting to get weak. Close monitoring and medical care is essential to keep senior adults leading a safe and comfortable lifestyle. Given such a situation, the challenge is to find the right set-up that will allow grandma and grandpa to continue living independently and close to their circles, while ensuring that they have access to immediate help when needed.
The practical solution: granny flats.
A granny flat is a single-floor, self-contained, stand-alone structure built on the property where the main home is also standing. A specialist granny flat builder can set up your granny flat in as fast as 12 weeks – the property is ready for occupancy and the area cleaned and cleared of construction debris.
Investing in a granny flat allows families to enjoy the best of both worlds: have their elderly members by their side, while having their private spaces that allow them to lead independent and interconnected lives.
Aside from the practical and cost benefits, families opting for a granny flat can enjoy the priceless value of giving their senior loved one a healthier and happier retirement lifestyle. Compared to seniors living in isolation, seniors who get to enjoy the strong presence of loved ones can expect the following benefits:
A longer life. Studies have shown that social isolation which often leads to loneliness can increase the risk of mortality among senior adults. When families see their elderly members on a regular basis, they can detect sudden changes or see serious symptoms and determine if medical attention should be provided.
Better mental health. Loneliness can contribute to the increased risk (or if already existent, worsening) of dementia. When seniors enjoy the company of people in their life, they maintain good brain function longer and delay cognitive decline which is common with ageing.
Better physical health. Seniors who are isolated are prone to catching long-term illnesses, studies say. Chronic lung disease, high blood pressure, mobility issues and arthritis are just some of the conditions associated with social isolation. It’s all connected – when they enjoy good mental and emotional well-being, seniors are rewarded with good physical condition as well.