Choosing a retirement community can feel a bit like finding your perfect Valentine – you’re searching for a special place that truly complements your unique needs and desires. Just as you wouldn’t settle for just anyone, your retirement community should be a perfect match. Here’s a guide on how to find “The One” for you:

1. Define Your “Love Language”

Lifestyle: Do you crave an active social scene with vibrant activities or a more tranquil environment? Or both? Consider what amenities are must-haves for you. Kirkwood offers something for everyone, with on and off-campus entertainment each week and ample indoor and outdoor community spaces for you to enjoy (including wellness centers, dining options, faith-based community spaces, and more). 

Care Needs: What level of care is most important to you? Kirkwood offers Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care Assisted Living, Short-term Rehab, and Skilled Nursing, allowing residents to shape their preferred retirement lifestyle while also preparing for future needs. 

Budget: Determine your budget for entrance fees, monthly service fees, and any other potential costs. Consider your current cost of living as a homeowner and compare cost of living within a community to ensure your “Valentine” is within your means.

Location: Do you prefer to be in the hustle and bustle of downtown or in a quieter area? At Kirkwood, we offer the best of both worlds. Our community is located on 120 acres along the Cahaba River but still just minutes from Birmingham’s thriving cultural scene, strongest neighborhoods, and world-renowned healthcare facilities. 

2. Go on a Few “Dates”

Start online: Explore websites, read reviews, and compare different communities. At Kirkwood, you can also contact a staff member who can help navigate any questions you have.

Make a reservation: Visit communities that pique your interest. Pay attention to the overall atmosphere, the cleanliness and maintenance of the community, and the friendliness of the staff. Talk to current residents. They can provide invaluable insights into their experiences and help you determine if this community is the right “match” for you.

3. Ask the Right “Getting-to-Know-You” Questions

Care services: Inquire about the availability and cost of different care levels to ensure you are able to stay within the community long-term.

Amenities and services: Ask about dining and hospitality, transportation services, social activities, and wellness programs. 

Staff: Ask about staff retention. Get to know the staff member showing you around the community and hear what they enjoy about their job. You will learn a lot from a staff member about the company culture!

4. Look for Long-Term Compatibility

Choose a community that aligns with your long-term goals and provides a sense of security and stability as your needs evolve.

Consider how the community can support your overall well-being, including your physical, mental, and social health.

Include family members in your conversations so that everyone is on board.

Trust your instincts and choose a community that feels like the right fit for you – a true “love match” that will bring you years of happiness and fulfillment.

5. Make the Move

Once you have found “the” retirement community for you, talk to the staff about hopping on a waiting list. Now more than ever, it is important to let us know you’re interested so that you receive priority access to apartments as they become available. 

Just like finding your perfect romantic partner, finding the perfect retirement community requires patience, research, and a little bit of intuition. Happy searching!