Retirement Planning Tips: Thinking Ahead for Future Peace of Mind

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The Terraces at Bonita Springs

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May 20, 2024

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Florida - Southwest

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Are you ready for a retirement where you can confidently embrace all the possibilities life offers, knowing your future is secure? This quick guide offers practical retirement planning tips to help you manage your finances effectively, ensuring you have the resources and peace of mind to live life to the fullest.

We’ll delve into strategies to protect your savings, discover how LifeCare communities like The Terraces at Bonita Springs can provide peace of mind, and help you create a retirement plan that prioritizes both financial security and the joy and fulfillment you deserve. Together, we’ll ensure your retirement is everything you’ve dreamed of!

4 Essential Tips for a Worry-Free Retirement

Planning for retirement is about more than just saving money. It’s about creating a road map for financial security and enjoying the freedom your later years offer. With a thoughtful approach, you can embrace your new life without financial stress. Here are four tips to ensure a smooth transition into this well-deserved chapter:

1.    Embrace the Income Shift

  • Inventory your income sources: List out your expected pensions, Social Security benefits, and investment accounts. This gives you a clear picture of your retirement income baseline.
  • Create a realistic budget: Your spending habits will likely adjust in retirement. Our monthly cost worksheet can help you create a budget outlining monthly expenses, including necessities like housing, food, utilities and health care. Remember to leave room for travel, hobbies, or any other experiences you want to prioritize.
  • Build inflation into your budget: Plan for a slight increase in living expenses each year to avoid surprises.

2.    Consider Downsizing

  • Find a floor plan that matches your needs: If your current home feels overwhelming to maintain, downsizing offers a simpler, more manageable space. Trade unused rooms for lower expenses and less maintenance, leaving you more time and money to enjoy life.
  • Experience the ease of senior living: Curious about what senior communities offer? Contact The Terraces at Bonita Springs to learn how you can enjoy an array of social activities and events and get a glimpse of the stress-free lifestyle that could be waiting for you.
  • Minimize moving worries: Downsizing can be a challenge, but The Terraces offers the perfect solution. Our Pack and Move program, provided by Turn Key Senior Transitions, ensures a seamless transition. Let our compassionate experts handle everything –  you just focus on settling into your beautiful new home.

3.     Build Your Financial Safety Net

  • Consult a financial advisor: Get expert guidance on your retirement plan. A professional can review your overall finances, assess your risk tolerance, and tailor your strategy to achieve your specific retirement goals. Senior living communities like The Terraces are happy to connect you with a reputable advisor for a personalized approach.
  • Consider a long-term care plan: Explore options like long-term care insurance or Life Plan Communities to address potential future needs without draining your retirement savings.

4.    Prioritize Peace of Mind

  • Revisit your plan regularly: As life changes, so should your financial plan. Annual check-ins with yourself or your advisor are a good idea to keep you informed and in control.
  • Communicate your plan: If you have a partner or family, open communication about financial goals and expectations brings everyone on the same page, reducing potential anxiety or misunderstandings later down the road.
  • Stay in the moment: While future-proofing is important, don’t deny yourself the joys of the present. Find a balance between saving and allocating some funds toward fulfilling experiences and hobbies.

a group of seniors working out at the gymLifeCare Communities Are Your Partner in Retirement Planning

When envisioning your dream retirement, financial worries shouldn’t be part of the picture. LifeCare communities offer a compelling solution by taking most of the guesswork out of your future. Here’s how they help:

Long-Term Care

The most valuable benefit of LifeCare is the cushion it provides against the potentially significant costs of assisted living, memory support, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation. Your nest egg is protected, ensuring your hard-earned savings go further.

Potential Tax Advantages

A portion of your Life Plan Community fees may qualify as a deductible health care expense. The current tax landscape offers potential advantages for investing in retirement living. However, tax laws are shifting with heavier taxes on deductible health care expenses predicted for 2025. This makes it wise to invest in your future as quickly as possible. Be sure to consult a tax advisor for personalized guidance on how to maximize this advantage.

Maintenance-Free Living

Imagine never having to budget for a leaky roof, appliance repairs, or yardwork. LifeCare communities like The Terraces handle all of that, eliminating those unpredictable expenses and giving you time to focus on what matters most.

A Vibrant Lifestyle

Think of communities like The Terraces at Bonita Springs as an investment in enjoyment. Amenities like pools, dog parks, and a vibrant social calendar turn retirement into an adventure. Take classes, discover passions, and build a community – all within easy reach.

a group of seniors enjoying cheese and wine outside at the Terrace at Bonita SpringsThe Terraces at Bonita Springs: This Is Retirement Elevated

Discover a retirement lifestyle where beautiful surroundings, the comfort of knowing your future is secure, and a vibrant community await. This is the promise of The Terraces at Bonita Springs, where our LifeCare option empowers you to live life to the fullest.

Embrace the worry-free retirement you deserve. Schedule your personalized visit today and experience The Terraces difference firsthand. Contact us online or call 239-208-6963 and let us guide you toward your dream retirement.

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The Respiratory System: Age-Related Changes & COPD

The respiratory system, like many of the other human systems (e.g., cardiovascular, digestive), is a wondrously complex and sophisticated arrangement of organs working together to maintain homeostasis.Contact an Office in Your AreaChronic obstructive pulmonary disease, more commonly referred to as COPD, is a health problem facing adults in the U.S. Because of its progressive nature and increased age as a leading factor, there is a greater prevalence of COPD in seniors. The good news is that many adults can easily reduce their risk of COPD through lifestyle management.  COPD represents a group of lung diseases, with the two most common being emphysema and chronic bronchitis.Symptoms of COPD includeConstant coughingWheezingShortness of breathCoughing up mucusTightness in the chestResearch also suggests that there may be a link between poor air quality and COPD. The American Lung Association estimates that between 80-90% of COPD cases result from smoking. Unsurprisingly, secondhand smoke is a significant risk factor as well. Seniors should take the following steps to reduce their risk of COPD:Older adults that smoke should get support from a primary care physician and take steps to quit. There are many programs, services, and products that can help.Seniors should avoid contact with secondhand smoke whenever possible.Reducing exposure to air pollution can help relieve symptoms. Many cities issue poor air quality warnings when these warnings are in effect, seniors should limit outside activities. Seniors should avoid airborne irritants (chemicals, fumes, etc.) in the home.A healthy diet and exercise plan can improve lung function and overall health with direction from a physician.Older adults should understand the impact of aging on their respiratory system and reduce their risk of any related diseases, illnesses, or conditions.Doctors may recommend getting vaccinations for both influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia to guard against further breathing complications.Comfort Keepers Can HelpComfort Keepers elevates the human spirit for todays seniors and their families through a unique, individualized approach to care that helps seniors thrive and achieve greater wellbeing by fostering everyday positive moments, connection, and a more purposeful life no matter their age or acuity. As part of a healthcare team, an in-home caregiver can assist with activities that slow disease progression or reduce the risk for those with respiratory issues. Comfort Keepers caregivers can help by supporting physician-recommended health programs, preparing meals, encouraging prescribed physical activity, reminding seniors to take medications, and providing transportation to scheduled appointments. References:Healthline. Everything You Need to Know About Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Web. 2018.Everyday Health. 5 Best Ways to Prevent COPD by Chris Iliades, MD. Web. 2018.Aging Care. An Overview of COPD by National Institutes of Health. Web. 2017.Unity Point Health. The Top 8 Respiratory Illnesses and Diseases. Web. 2014.American Lung Association. Lung Capacity and Aging. Web. 2017.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Chronic Respiratory Disease. Web. 2017.

Physical Activity for Senior Care

As seniors age, physical activities can have not only positive physical effects, but positive cognitive effects as well.Contact an Office in Your AreaIn one study, 100 nursing-home residents performed resistance exercises three times a week for 10 weeks. At the end, the exercise group could lift significantly more weight, climb more stairs, and walk faster and farther than their sedentary counterparts.Its been proven time and again that exercise is good for seniors physical and mental health. Regular exercise, even in small amounts, can improve mood, relieve stress and improve health. According to the CDC, four of the five most expensive health conditions older adults face can be prevented or managed with physical activity. But, only about 35% of adults over the age of 65 are physically active. Any senior starting a new exercise plan should consult with their physician. And, it is helpful for family and members of the care team to assist and support physical activity in any way they can. For those that are physically able to begin an exercise program, regular movement can help them live a more vibrant and healthy life. Some of the health benefits include:Improved mental health, mood and outlookPrevention, or improvement of, diseases such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and osteoporosisReduced pain from arthritis and minimizing its severityDecreased risk of fallsEach individual has different needs when it comes to exercise and varying health conditions that may need to be taken into consideration before beginning an exercise regimen. A health professional to determine the best approach to physical activity with senior care.There are a variety of ways to incorporate aerobic activity, strength-building exercises, stretching and balance all without leaving the comfort of home! Aerobic exercise  Walking in place, dancing or aerobic routines can help get the heart rate up. These activities improve cardiovascular health and help older adults maintain a healthy weight. Strength building exercises  there are many easy strength-building exercises that can help seniors build the muscles they need to do everyday activities and prevent muscle loss. And, exercises can be done with household items or using body weight, so no expensive equipment is required. Stretching  Stretching before and after exercise can help prevent soreness after exercise. And, the additional benefit is improved flexibility, which is good for older adults physical health. For those looking to improve their flexibility even more, there are exercise routines available online that include yoga or stretching routines specifically for seniors.Balance exercises  Balance exercises help seniors prevent falls and improve mobility. Yoga, tai chi, and other low-impact activities can all help improve balance and overall physical health.Those that need a little assistance getting started should not hesitate to reach out to their doctor, family or caregiver. It is never too late to adopt an active lifestyle! Comfort Keepers Can HelpFor seniors that need a little extra help living an active lifestyle, Comfort Keepers caregivers can help with encouragement, support and assistance with physician-prescribed exercise plans. And, caregivers can encourage overall health through meal planning, grocery shopping, meal preparation and activities. Our custom care plans focus on physical and mental health and wellness activities. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today. ReferencesCenters for Disease Control and Prevention. Adults Need More Physical Activity. Web. 2019.Health and Human Services. Facts & Statistics: Physical Activity. Web. 2017.National Council on Aging. Exercise Programs That Promote Senior Fitness. Web.Readers Digest Canada, 5 of the Best Exercises for Seniors to Build Strength, Improve Balance and Boost Heart Health. Web. Harvard Health Publishing. Exercise after age 70. Web. 2007.

Adapting Homes to Seniors' Changing Needs

More Americans are choosing to age in place. That is, they opt to stay in their homes rather than move to alternative retirement settings.But that often means they must modify their home, so it's not a danger to their safety and health when their physical abilities change.A new career field has risen to address this need: the Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS), a program of the National Association of Home Builders. Certified individuals assess homes to identify and recommend modifications to prevent injuries from falls and other risks.According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), one-third of Americans age 65 and over fall each year. The CDC adds that environmental factors lead to about half of all falls that occur at home. In addition to tripping hazards and poor lighting, these factors include a lack of needed modifications, such as bathroom grab bars, handicapped showers, stair railings and ramps. The organization offers a checklist to make sure an older adult's home is as safe as possible.Home modifications help seniors maintain quality of life. They often prevent injuries that lead to a loss of independence and early admission to an assisted living or long-term care facility.The following are examples of commonly recommended modifications:Install grab bars for toilets and tubs and install a walk-in tub and/or tub seatRemove unnecessary throw rugs and fasten down rugs or floor runners to prevent slippingMove furniture to create clear walking pathsKeep objects off the floor and coil or secure cords to the wall to prevent trippingReplace doorknobs with lever door handlesApply non-slip tape on uncarpeted indoor and outdoor stepsReplace standard light switches with rocker-style switchesIncrease the width of doorways and hallways to accommodate wheelchairs and, where possible, lower sinks and countertopsMove often-used items to lower cabinets to avoid the need for step stoolsRepair or replace loose handrails and install adequate lighting in stairwaysInstall an elevator or chair liftInstall an elevated dishwasher or one with drawers for easy accessReplace old stoves with induction cooktops to help prevent burnsReplace ceramic tile floors with hardwood or vinyl for safe standingShedding Light on Home ModificationWhen modifying a home for a senior, don't forget the importance of good lighting. Seniors need two to three times as much light in order to see as well as younger people.Good lighting -- in the form of natural light -- provides seniors safety and other advantages:Sunlight provides a good dose of vitamin D, which helps the body absorb more calcium to strengthen teeth and bones. Choose window treatments that let in sunlight, without glare, to enhance the health of seniors, many of who get outside less than they used to.Daylight also improves psychological health. It lessens the energy-zapping effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and other forms of depression.

Local Services By This Author

Renaissance at The Terraces

Skilled Nursing 26475 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, Florida, 34134

5-Star Skilled Nursing for Changing Health NeedsWhen someone youre caring for needs more help than youre able to provide, our Medicare-certified skilled nursing offers professional care in a comfortable, homelike setting. Skilled nursing services provide long- and short-term care for those recovering from an illness or injury.Our goal is to give residents the medical assistance they need and the personal engagement and social involvement they want. We subscribe to a philosophy of choice, empowering residents to make their own decisions as much as possible. Our associates are dedicated skilled nursing professionals at Renaissance, which means they can build strong personal bonds with residents. Skilled Nursing at Renaissance is open to the public, without a large entrance fee.Services and Amenities24-hour licensed nurses availableTV room, library and lounge areaFully furnished private suites with a personal bathFlat-screen TV in each residents residenceAll utilities included, including basic cable and local telephone serviceSocial and recreational activities and eventsPhysical, speech and occupational therapiesIndustry-leading staff ratios Short-term rehabilitative careLong-term residential carePost-surgical care IV therapy Pain managementSpecialized wound careOrthopedic rehabilitationFull-time lifestyle staff

The Terraces at Bonita Springs

Memory Care 26455 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, Florida, 34134

Memory Care in Bonita Springs, FloridaIf you are searching for memory care near me and live in southwest Florida, youve found the perfect place for you and your loved one.Located in Bonita Springs and convenient to those in Estero and North Naples, memory care at Renaissance at The Terraces offers those living with Alzheimers disease or dementia a beautiful, comfortable and welcoming place to call home. With the exceptional memory care, elegant setting and thoughtful lifestyles offered, Renaissance delivers the quality memory care experience that families expect for their loved ones.BROWSE OUR FLOOR PLANSMemory Care that Embraces the Whole FamilyFor those living with Alzheimers or other forms of dementia, (including Lewy body dementia) and for their families, the effects of memory loss can be devastating. We understand. Our exceptional care embraces everyone involved, from our residents to their families. Our trained memory care team works closely with residents every day. Our purpose is to engage each individual in a way that resonates with them personally; this approach respects their choices, promotes their remaining abilities and supports their independence in a safe environment. We also offer support and education for families, helping them to understand and cope with the challenges presented by Alzheimers and dementia. Renaissance, as well as all of The Terraces at Bonita Springs, welcomes family members to not only visit their loved ones but to also take advantage of every amenity offered within our senior living community. After all, this is where their loved one lives this is home. We welcome them to treat it as such. What does that mean to you? It means feeling at home at Renaissance. It means taking a stroll through the grounds. Soaking up the sun by the pool. This community is designed to allow everyone to live well. It means letting us provide care and support while you enjoy being family again.Personalized Alzheimers and Dementia CareWe believe theres no substitute for personalized attention. To us, memory care is only effective when it is incredibly personal, so we get personal. We take the time to get to know our residents. We learn their life stories and really get to know who they are. Through the smallest details residents interests, careers, family histories and favorite foods we can develop personalized dementia care plans and create positive emotional experiences that help stabilize residents moods without relying on pharmacology. Its an innovative approach to memory care in southwest Florida.State-of-the-Art Memory Care FacilityOur memory care facility in Renaissance is state-of-the-art, featuring a neighborhood concept that helps decrease residents anxiety, with common spaces to encourage socialization. No detail has been overlooked; no comfort has been spared. Our residents enjoy spacious private residences with nurses close by, allowing us to provide even better care. Rated 5 stars from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, families can be confident in the quality of our memory care services.Memory Care and Service Details:24-hour licensed nurses available24-hour Certified Nurses Aide assistanceRecreational therapistSecure environmentDedicated professionals specially trained to care for those with memory lossPersonalized care plan tailored to meet unique needs and preferencesSpacious, private studio residences with full private bathsAll utilities provided, including basic cableInclusive pricingMemory boxes to help residents locate their residence independentlySpacious activity and common areas designed to promote social interactionEnclosed courtyard for safe outdoor activities such as walking and family visitsInteractive and socially stimulating programming designed for those with memory loss

Renaissance at The Terraces

Assisted Living 26475 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, Florida, 34134

Inclusive Assisted Living: Hospitality With CompassionFor those who require a helping hand with daily activities, assisted living offers the ideal balance of personalized service and independence. If youre in Southwest Florida and searching for assisted living near me, look no further than Renaissance, our resort-style Bonita Springs assisted living community. Here we help older adults live independently with access to care whenever and however they need it. Our inclusive assisted living fees cover everything, so residents can budget without any surprises.Assisted living provides residents assistance with basic activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing and medication management. It also provides a sense of comfort and peace of mind to residents and their loved ones, knowing that with this care, residents are able to focus more on enjoying life.But Renaissance delivers more of what discerning seniors and their families expect from assisted living. Unlike other assisted living facilities, our community offers luxury amenities and services, including spacious, beautifully appointed residences and delicious dining where senior assisted living residents can order from chef-prepared menus. Our community features a large fitness center, creative arts studio and crafts room, a courtyard with landscaped grounds, plus robust programming and activities that keep residents engaged, connected and thriving. Above all else, senior care staff members are always available to provide exceptional service so that residents feel safe and fulfilled.With compassionate care at our core, we work directly with residents and families to go over living options and tailor a plan that works best for them. We take into account personal needs, schedules and individual preferences to ensure each resident enjoys an enriching life with maximum independence.If a resident experiences an illness, injury, or surgery and requires rehabilitation or skilled nursing care, those services are available right here and may be covered by Medicare Part B. Residents enjoy the convenience and confidence of receiving the care they need in the community they love. Best of all, following care, they are able to return to their assisted living residence.Assisted Living Services & Amenities24-hour licensed nurses availableInclusive pricingAssistance with activities of daily livingSpacious one- and two-bedroom residences, complete with a kitchenette and full bathAll utilities and basic cable provided, except telephoneSocial and life-enrichment activitiesLarge creative arts studio and crafts roomOutdoor terraces for diningDedicated fitness centerOutdoor courtyard and beautifully landscaped groundsWell-appointed common areas, including a TV room, library, lounge areas and media roomScheduled complimentary transportation availableHigher levels of care are available at our Bonita Springs, FL, senior living community, under one roof. Assisted living residents who need skilled nursing, memory support, or rehabilitation can receive that care seamlessly without moving away from our retirement community.Browse Our Floor PlansArea AttractionsLifelong LearningVitality ProgramAssisted Living Care: Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)When is the right time for assisted living? Thats a question we frequently hear. People may be confused about the differences between independent living and assisted living. They may also think their loved one may need a nursing home. The answer is fairly straightforward. If your loved one needs support with activities of daily living (ADLs), assisted living is the right choice. What are activities of daily living? They are regular daily activities that are related mostly to personal care. They include bathing or showering, dressing, safely taking medications, getting in and out of bed or a chair, walking, and similar activities.If your loved one needs help with any of these, assisted living is a wonderful option to consider. Not only will your loved one receive the personalized assistance thats so essential to maintaining a sense of independence, but at Renaissance, an entire lifestyle is available that can add so much to your loved ones life. New friends. A rich social life. Programs and activities that add joy and meaning to every day. Access to a wide variety of amenities, such as our fitness center and walking paths. And of course, our dining services team makes sure your loved one enjoys healthy, delicious meals.Renaissance Service and AmenitiesAll residents of Renaissance, including those in assisted living, enjoy all the services and amenities offered within this inviting community, including:Direct admittance with no large entrance feeThree chef-prepared meals daily, served in a private dining roomAccess to a full continuum of on-site health care servicesMedical director and registered dietitianMedication monitoring and administrationWellness programsRehabilitative therapy servicesState-of-the-art equipment and treatment programsMove-in coordination support24-hour security and emergency call systemGated communitySprinkler system and smoke detectorsFire-rated and sound-resistant constructionEmergency power generatorsResidence and grounds maintenanceBeauty salon, barbershop and spa servicesHousekeeping, daily bed-making, and personal laundry service availableIndividually controlled heating and air conditioningIf you have questions about the cost of assisted living, or about any of our health care services, please contact us today.