Senior residences or retirement homes promise an upscale retirement. Those who move in here can expect first-class facilities, attractive leisure and cultural activities and sophisticated conversation partners among the residents. Of course, all this comes at a price. No one will find it easy to decide to sell their own property and swap it for the amenities of a retirement home. But in some circumstances, this option can be exactly the right choice.
Even if there is no binding definition of a retirement home, there are standardized criteria and quality descriptions.
Quality of life in old age - a valuable asset
A senior residence offers upscale private rooms and has additional facilities such as a swimming pool, sauna, elegant lounges and libraries. Residents have access to a sophisticated range of leisure, cultural and event activities, as well as extensive care services. It is not uncommon to find physiotherapy and medical practices in the building, as well as restaurants, a cafeteria, boutiques with a bank counter and a chapel or other spiritual relaxation rooms. Taken together, all of this can certainly provide more inspiration for a fulfilling "autumn of life" than if you were to spend it alone in a home that has become too big for you.
Not every retirement home delivers what it promises
However, the two terms "senior citizens' residence" and "senior citizens' home" are not legally protected. In principle, they can therefore be used arbitrarily and, on closer inspection, they can also refer to a simple assisted living facility or a normal nursing home. It is therefore important to compare the offers carefully and take in the atmosphere on site before deciding to move into a retirement home.
Pension lump sum instead of rent
Living in a senior citizens' residence is significantly more expensive than in other senior citizens' facilities. One special feature is that residents do not usually pay rent, but a monthly pension flat rate. This covers living and care costs. One disadvantage of such "all-inclusive offers" is that residents may also pay for a whole host of services that they do not (yet) make use of. Or they may receive all-round care that they do not yet need, which can even have a negative impact on their independence.
Are you or your relatives thinking about spending your retirement in a retirement home and would like to know what your property can become? Get in touch with us! We will be happy to advise you.
Further information can be found here:
https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Altenheim
Legal notice: This article does not constitute tax or legal advice in individual cases. Please consult a lawyer and/or tax advisor to clarify the facts of your specific individual case.
Photo: © norwayblue/Depositphotos.com
