There is a common misconception that senior living communities are where senior adults move when they have no one left and no other options, but that is far from the truth. In fact, senior living communities are ideal for married couples, who now have more time to focus on their relationship and enjoy their time together, especially when a loved one requires additional care. The space, freedom, and convenience of these communities are ideal for married couples in senior living.
Buckner Retirement Services offers several senior living options in our communities across Texas. From independent living to memory care, our life plan communities provide peace of mind for your golden years. Find a community that fits your lifestyle by calling 214.227.7182.
Moving to an Independent Living Community as a Couple
Making the transition to an independent living community as a couple carries numerous benefits and can greatly simplify life in your golden years. One of the most significant advantages is the maintenance-free living experience. Independent living communities take care of chores such as landscaping, housekeeping, and repairs, allowing couples more time to focus on each other and enjoy their shared interests.
Another major benefit is the wealth of amenities and social activities available. These communities often feature fitness centers, swimming pools, arts and crafts rooms, and a calendar full of social events. This provides plenty of opportunities for couples to stay active and socialize with their peers.
Furthermore, living in a community setting can provide a sense of security that can’t be matched at home. With staff available 24/7 and emergency response systems in place, couples can rest easy knowing they have support available if needed.
How Many Married Couples in Retirement Are There?
All around Buckner communities, you’ll find married couples dining together, participating in community-sponsored clubs and events, or going for a walk and holding hands. About one-third of the residents in most of the communities are married, though the number is much higher in the newest community, Ventana, in Dallas. There, 86% of the residents are married.
Moving into a senior living community helps free a couple from the weight of household obligations, allowing them to focus on their relationship and reconnect. But for couples where one person is experiencing serious health issues, the convenience of a senior living community offers so much more.
Jerry and Ross: A Buckner Retirement Story
Jerry and Ross Jefferson moved to an independent living home at Baptist Retirement Community (BRC) in 2013. Ross was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s a few years into living at Buckner. Jerry was able to manage caring for him at first, but as the condition progressed, it became more difficult. “One of the first things he said was, ‘Why can’t I remember anything anymore?’” remembered Jerry. “Then he said, ‘Well, I guess when you get old, you just quit remembering.’ He never really said it by name,” she said. Jerry’s daughters became worried, as they didn’t want the burden of caregiving to fall entirely on their mother.
Shortly after his memory started declining, they convinced Jerry to move Ross into SageCrest Alzheimer’s Care Center at BRC. “It’s just a short walk for me to visit Ross almost every day. I like to go after lunch and stay with him until around 4 p.m., which is when sundown syndrome hits, and he has a harder time remembering things,” said Jerry. Jerry said the staff caring for Ross is like family to them, and that knowledge eases so much of the stress and worry stemming from his condition.
The Importance of Senior Living for Couples
According to a survey, 80% of respondents admitted that caregiving puts a strain on relationships, with 25% saying it led to divorce. What once was an equal romantic partnership can turn into a nurse-patient dynamic. In another report, the impact of caregiving on marriage included a financial burden, reduced time together as a couple, frustration and fatigue, resentment, and more.
The continuing care capabilities of Buckner Retirement Services’ life plan communities are one of the top reasons residents choose Buckner. “We picked Calder Woods because of the continuous care option,” said Nancy Bond, who moved to Buckner Calder Woods with her husband, Jim. “We hoped we would never need the specialized care, but we wanted to be safe.”
Options for Married Couples in Senior Living
A life plan community, also known as a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), is a senior living community that offers different levels of living and care on-site, such as:
- Independent living
- Assisted living
- Memory care
- Long-term care and skilled nursing
These services help meet residents’ changing needs in a comfortable environment they already know with people they already trust. After moving to Calder Woods, Jim Bond’s dementia and diabetes progressed, and Nancy had to make the decision to move her husband into a private suite within a skilled nursing cottage while she remained in one of the Beaumont, TX, community’s independent living homes. “I wasn’t capable of caring for him 24 hours a day,” said Nancy, “But he’s where he needs to be, and I can be by his side in minutes.”
The Benefits of Retiring as Married Couples
There are many couples in similar situations that benefit greatly from continuing care. Skilled nurses and staff relieve the caregiver burden, so the couples can spend hours together each day talking, playing games, working on puzzles, or dining together.
Bob Jones said his love for his wife is stronger than ever before since moving his wife Joyce into memory care at Buckner Parkway Place in Houston.
“I thought we had the rest of our lives planned out, but God and Alzheimer’s had a different plan,” said Bob. He continued, “I thought I could take care of her on my own, but it was more difficult than I anticipated. I knew I needed help. I visit her every day and still feel our love. When I see her, we still say I love you, and when we walk around, we hold hands. It’s so important for people to realize what they have and not take things for granted because one day, your loved one may not remember the same precious memories you do. I wish I knew more before, but the help she is receiving now is top-notch, and I know we will get through this together.”
Buckner Westminster Place resident Barbara Barkley agrees with that sentiment. Her husband, Bill, has Parkinson’s and resides in a skilled nursing apartment. “I tell Bill that when I get up for the day, my purpose is to come and see him—and I do.”
Call Buckner Retirement Services for a Life Plan Community
Buckner Retirement Services is one of the few Senior Living providers in Texas with Life Plan Communities across the state. Whether you are married or single, we have a community that will fit your needs. In each community, we offer a range of services, including:
- Dining services
- Nutritional education
- Wellness and fitness programs
- Life enrichment activities
- Tranquility gardens
To learn more about how married couples in senior living can thrive, please get in touch with us today at 214.227.7182. We would be honored to give you a tour of one of our life plan communities and show you how we can help you live life to the fullest.