Senior living amenities can make all the difference between an average retirement and an extraordinary one. As you consider the lifestyle you’ve been wanting, stop and think about what matters most to you: comfort? Safety? Convenience? You’re not only looking for the senior living amenities and services you desire, but those you can make the most use of daily.

In other words, look past the “dazzle” and focus on what will help you live the way you want to live.

Senior living amenities that really matter for living well

• Maintenance-free living. Guilt-free leisure time is definitely a key amenity that you deserve to enjoy. After years of working, paying bills, preparing meals, and caring for others, it’s time you were able to live life at your chosen pace. Without worries of leaky roofs, dusty furniture or other daily chores. Now you can let someone else do it all for you, while you do whatever you like.

• Exceptional dining. There’s a lot to be said for gathering with good company in a lovely setting to enjoy a delicious meal—especially when it’s been prepared for you, with good nutrition and good taste in mind. Today’s senior living communities take pride in chef-prepared cuisine that features fresh ingredients and when possible, reflects local favorites. It’s also nice to be able to invite your family and friends to join you.

• A strong focus on wellness and healthy aging. Retirement is an opportunity to explore new possibilities and adventures, and that’s much easier to do when you’re feeling strong and healthy. In the right senior living environment, you can learn tips on smart nutrition, how to stay strong, which exercises are best for balance, how relaxation can help you stay energized, and much more. When it comes to senior living amenities, an emphasis on all the dimensions of wellness is essential.

• Safety features. Today’s senior living communities are carefully designed with the health and safety of each resident in mind. Accessible bathrooms feature grab bars and walk-in showers. Hallways are wider and well-lighted with handrails for easy passage. Surfaces are one-level without tripping hazards such as throw rugs. And don’t forget the peace of mind that comes from knowing assistance is available 24/7. The whole environment is dedicated to your wellbeing.

• A wide range of possibilities for socializing. The opportunity to be around people you enjoy might sound obvious, but it ranks very high on the list of senior living amenities. That’s because when it comes to the mental, emotional and physical health of older adults, it’s hard to beat the power of companionship.

You want to look for a community with a vibrant activities calendar. Social hours, classes, parties, holiday celebrations, lifelong learning, fitness classes, day trips, music therapy, intergenerational activities, board games, art classes, card games, concerts, cookouts, opportunities for spiritual reflection and more.

• Comfortable residences that feel like home. One of the great pleasures of making the move to senior living is the freedom to let go of heavy responsibilities. That includes some of the long-held belongings and furnishings that may no longer serve your new lifestyle. Now you can lighten your surroundings and be energized in a residence that is specially designed for your convenience and safety. And with regular housekeeping provided for you, all you have to do is sit back and feel right at home.

• Inviting common spaces for gathering and enjoyment. Right outside your door, you’ll usually find a host of areas where you can meet up with friends and family for all types of events and experiences. A dining venue. Lovely outdoor spaces when you’re in the mood for some fresh air and sunshine. Areas for visiting with guests. Many senior living communities have a well-stocked library, a salon and barber shop, chapel, woodworking shop or a putting green. And that’s just a few of the many possible senior living amenities.

What you value thrives here.

Whether it’s surrounding yourself with neighbors who feel like family, filling your days with interesting activities and events, or just experiencing life at your own pace, we think you’ll find what you need at a PMMA (Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America®) community. Contact a community near you to learn more and to schedule your personalized tour.