Best Places To Retire In Arizona
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Best Retirement Cities In Arizona

If you are looking for the best retirement cities in Arizona, we’re here to highlight five of the top places across the valley of the sun!

Best Cities To Retire In Arizona

More and more retirees are flocking to Arizona for the plethora of sunshine, strong economy and scenic views. If you are currently searching for the best areas of the valley to call home, this will be your guide!

Youngtown, AZ

This town’s fascinating history quickly made it a favorite for retirees. Incredibly enough, Youngtown is actually the oldest retirement community in the U.S. In the mid-1950’s, developers began on an ambitious project: create the country’s first-ever planned community solely for retirees.

The name Youngtown was, of course, ironically planned. Measuring just over a mile in total area, Youngtown boasts a small population, filled with the best retirement communities in the entire country. From November through April, the weather is nearly perfect, with average temperatures ranging from 76-86 degrees.

Retirement Community In Youngtown: There isn’t a more appropriately named setting for this lively community than Youngtown! Monthly rent at Ventana Winds includes three well balanced meals plus snacks, 24-hour staff, and a daily tidying of your apartment.

The offerings don’t end there! Personal laundry is done weekly, transportation is provided for appointments or shopping, a 24/7 emergency call system is in place, as well as a full slate of exciting activities. Check out all of Ventana Winds’ offerings today!

Mesa, AZ

Mesa is currently the third-largest city in all of Arizona, with nearly 500,000 citizens. Yet, since this city is so spread out, you will never feel like you’re congested living in a place like Phoenix. Nestled up against the Superstition Mountains, Mesa is home to some of the best hospitals in the state.

Avid golfers will love Mesa, which features more than 200 world-class courses. You are never far from neighboring cities, Scottsdale and Chandler, as well.

Retirement Community In Mesa: Canyon Winds is a Senior Living Services Community located in Mesa, Arizona. This facility offers plenty of choices for senior citizens of varying needs. One can find more than just assisted living at Canyon Winds, as they also offer independent and memory care services.

This resort-style facility is breathtaking, with spacious floor plans and dining areas. A full activity program and fitness center await future residents. Looking to bring a small cat or dog to your new home? Not a problem at all, as every SLS Community is pet friendly!

Sedona, AZ

You will not be able to find a more scenic location to call home than Sedona. More than six million acres of red-rock beauty surround some of the best retirement communities in the state of Arizona. Countless old western films were shot in this beautiful city, about two hours outside of Phoenix.

If you are a retiree who enjoys outdoor activities, you can’t find a better spot than Sedona. Enjoy horseback rides, jeep tours and scenic hikes all throughout the year. The only downside of living in Sedona is the rising real estate costs.

Retirement Community In Sedona: Sedona Winds, located in the heart of the red rocks, offers stunning courtyard views, along with a 24-hour staff for every need. Settle for this community if you wish to enjoy breathtaking views, daily.

General maintenance, weekly laundry and deep cleaning of your apartment, an emergency call system, and a diverse activities program are all included when you choose Sedona Winds.

Sedona Arizona

Peoria, AZ

Peoria is located northeast of Phoenix and Glendale. Due to a plethora of available land, Peoria is home to many top-notch retirement communities. Enjoy scenic views daily, and check out the Salt River which flows right through the city.

Peoria’s crime rate is below the national average and the climate is ideal; topping out at 94 degrees in the month of July. Money Magazine recently named Peoria as one of the top 100 places to live.

Retirement Community In Peoria: Offering assisted, independent and memory care services, Desert Winds is a top-notch community in the valley. Desert Winds offers three types of floor plans for assisted living residents. Whether a two-bedroom, two-bath or one-bedroom, one-bath is what you desire, Desert Winds has a plan for you.

Studio apartments are available as well. All of these floor plans can be toured virtually on Desert Winds’ official website. All apartments come fully equipped with individual heat and AC units, a refrigerator, microwave, window treatments and more.

Surprise, AZ

With a population of more than 135,000, Surprise continues to grow each year. Featuring low humidity and tons of sunshine, it’s no wonder why so many retirees are flocking to Surprise. Enjoy a much lower cost of living here, when compared to both Scottsdale and Phoenix.

Sports lovers will know how special this place is. Whether you want to hit the links or catch a baseball spring training game, Surprise is the spot for you!

Retirement Community In Surprise: If you’ve lived in Surprise your entire life and want to stay close to friends and family, then Chaparral Winds is the assisted living facility for you! As Chaparral Winds’ website states, this is a community designed to keep a relaxing vibe going throughout the day.

A pool and hot tub combined with a beautiful dining area make this one of the premier communities in all of Arizona. Great shopping, golf courses, restaurants and medical facilities are all located within a few miles, which is a bonus for visiting family members.

Retirement In Arizona

Why Retire In Arizona?

Find out why so many retirees are deciding to call Arizona home!

Most Sun In The U.S.

This is not an exaggeration, this is a fact! According to the NOAA, Arizona residents experience more sunny days than anyone in the country. And this includes the sunshine state of Florida! Arizona typically experiences 299 sunny days per year. The rest of the U.S. averages only 205 sunny days each year.

Less Tax Burdens

Arizona offers less tax burdens for residents compared to other states. Allowing residents to keep as much of their income as possible has helped the valley grow exponentially for several decades.

Low Cost Of Living

Arizona boasts an extremely strong economy and a low cost of living, at the same time. This state remains one of the most affordable states to live in across the country, according to BestPlaces. Whether you are looking to move into a small studio apartment or large home, the chances are high you’ll pay less in the valley of the sun. Combining the low cost of living and strong economy/job market, and Arizona is the ideal place for any retiree.

Sporting Options

Known as a golfer’s paradise, the valley offers many world-class resorts and destinations. From Sedona to Tucson, retirees’ can enjoy their favorite hobby in style. The PGA’s Waste Management Phoenix Open is played annually in Scottsdale, as well.

There’s more than just golf in Arizona, though! Residents also enjoy watching teams in all four major sports, including the Diamondbacks (MLB), Cardinals (NFL), Suns (NBA) and Coyotes (NHL).

Scenery

Arizona offers much more than gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. The valley of the sun is home to some of the best scenic hiking trails in the world. Sedona is home to the famous red rocks, plus mountain ranges, lakes and desert beauty can be seen all over the state.

Monument Valley Arizona

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

More Articles About Senior Living

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What Age Can You Stop Filing Income Taxes
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

When Can You Stop Filing Taxes?

You may stop filing taxes at age 65 if:

  • You are at least 65 years old, unmarried and making less than $14,250.
  • You are at least 65 years old, married, filing jointly and making less than $26,450.
  • You are a qualified widow, earning less than $26,450.

The IRS will want individuals to file a tax return whenever your gross income surpasses the total of the standard deduction for your specific filing status, in addition to one exemption amount. The filing rules still apply to seniors who are living off their social security. If you are a senior citizen, though, you don’t consider your social security as your gross income. You will not need to file a tax return if social security is your only source of income.

When Do Seniors Have To File Taxes?

For the current tax year, you must file a tax return if you are 65-plus, unmarried and your gross income is at least $14,250. However, if you live on your social security benefits, you will not need to include this in your gross income, according to TurboTax. You do not need to file if this is your sole source of income, meaning your gross income comes out to zero dollars. If you do earn additional income, that is not tax exempt, then you must figure out whether the total exceeds $14,250.

Whenever you and your spouse are at least 65 years old, married and filing jointly, you have to file a return if your combined income is $27,800 or more. If your spouse is below the age of 65, then the threshold amount decreases to $26,450. These figures were implemented during the 2018 tax year, so make sure to check if the amounts have increased.

When To Include Social Security In Gross Income

Certain situations will call for seniors to add social security benefits in their gross income. If you are married, filing an individual tax return and residing with your spouse, 85% of your social security benefits will be deemed gross income. In this case, you may need to file a tax return. An allotment of social security benefits will be included in your gross income, regardless of status, in any year the total of half your social security, including all other income, tax-exempt interest, exceeding $25,000 or $32,000 as long as you are married and filing jointly.

When Do You Stop Paying Taxes On Social Security?

You are allowed to stop paying taxes on social security at 65 as long as your total income is not a high figure. You can read all about taxes and social security rules right here courtesy of Turbo Tax.

Tax Credits For Seniors

Even if you must file a tax return, there are a few ways to decrease the amount you’ll pay on your taxable income. As long as you are 65-plus years old and your income from alternative sources than social security are not high, then tax credits for seniors can lessen your tax bill. This tax credit is only useful when you owe the IRS.

Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at (623) 624-4406 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

Senior Living
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How To Look Younger At 60
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

How To Look Younger At 60

Aging is an inevitable part of life, but feeling old and looking old can be two separate things. We’ve put together a list of 20 tips to give you a vibrant and younger appearance, even at age 60 and beyond.

Tip 1. Exercise More

More exercise will improve your blood circulation, increase supply of collagen, and of course, eventually lead to weight lose.

Tip 2. Drink Less

We all know drinking can have some terrible effects on the body. Alcohol has been proven to accelerate the aging process in one’s eyes and face.

Tip 3. Relax More

A lot of stress will make you age much quicker, unfortunately. Relax by doing yoga, talking long walks or whatever you can do to be at peace.

Tip 4. Color Your Hair

For many, finding a few gray hairs may be the first sign of aging. Finding a licensed hair stylist to properly color your hair is the best way to ensure long-lasting results. Box color uses cheaper chemicals that can wear off and make the coloring look unrealistic.

Tip 5. Stop Smoking

This is a crucial step towards your long-term health and your efforts to look younger. Cigarettes, like alcohol, will add age to your face. Try e-cigarettes or nicotine gum if you are attempting to quit for the first time.

Tip 6. Less Sugar Intake

Sugar is an inflammatory food that can show signs of aging on your face. Sugar can also inflame your brain, making it harder to concentrate. Transition from consuming lots of sugar to some sweet fruits.

Tip 7. Always Use Sunscreen

More people need to start applying sunscreen at an earlier age. Using a sunscreen with a high SPF will help avoid redness or sunspots.

Tip 8. Moisturize Your Skin

Dry skin will appear old and cracked. Not using any sort of moisturizer will only highlight the problem areas.

Tip 9. Frame Your Face

Eyebrows actually play a huge role in making your face appear younger. Keeping your eyebrows trimmed and shaped will help frame your face, ultimately drawing attention to your eyes.

Tip 10. Drink More Water

This tip goes hand in hand with moisturizing. Drinking plenty of water daily will help your skin stay moisturized, naturally.

Senior Exercising

Tip 11. V-Neck Shirts

By simply wearing more V-neck shirts, your neckline will look more youthful and flattering.

Tip 12. Whiten Teeth

This is a popular action for seniors trying to look younger. Whiter teeth gives the impression that you are younger than you actually are. Purchase some of the many teeth-whitening products to remove any stains.

Tip 13. Eat More Grapes

Sorbitol gives grapes a sweetness and it is also a substance that attracts water when applied to the skin. Eating grapes will ultimately help your skin absorb and retain moisture.

Tip 14. Smile More

This simple step helps mentally and physically. There is no doubt people who smile appear younger and happier. Smiling more often will decrease the chances of wrinkles developing.

Tip 15. More Hobbies

Spend your time and money on the things you love doing. Whether it’s a golf course membership or vacations, do what makes you happiest.

Tip 16. Undergarments

Undergarments that don’t fit or fit awkwardly can give you an invisible waistline.

Tip 17. Tight Fitting Clothes

Choose to wear clothes that fit a bit tighter than you are accustomed to. The tighter fits tend to make one appear younger.

Tip 18. Build Strong Social Relationships

Forming strong social relationships is helpful for both the physical and mental health of seniors. Good friends can help to boost your energy and overall mood.

Tip 19. Facial Massages

Facial massages will increase blood flow to the face, providing more nutrients and oxygen for tissues. Daily massages of the jawline can keep its elasticity.

Tip 20. Lose Weight

If you apply all these tips to look and feel younger, the weight loss should come naturally.

Senior Running

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

Senior Living
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Things To Know Before Moving To Arizona
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

15 Things To Know Before Moving To Arizona

What should you know about the great state of Arizona before moving there? Let’s take a look at 15 things that make the valley so unique.

1. Low Cost Of Living

Of course, there are some expensive places to live in the valley, including Scottsdale and Fountain Hills, but there are several very affordable places to call home in this state. The cost of living in the Phoenix area is actually 5% lower than the national average, according to PayScale. Rent is also affordable in other neighboring cities like Tucson and Tempe. The average income in Arizona is $59,000, currently.

2. Some Like It Hot

If you don’t mind the hot and dry summers, then you will love Arizona’s weather overall. Typically, the climate is dry and sunny throughout the year, with the winters and springs offering mild temperatures. From October to April, Arizona is a paradise for those looking for outdoor activities. The state in general sees a large influx of tourists during these months. Monsoon season is June through August, bringing some much-needed rainfall to the valley.

3. More Than Just A Desert

There is far more to this state than its desert landscape. Mountain ranges are always within eyesight, with colorful cacti surrounding urban areas. With 433 cities in Arizona, residents will find a variety of canyons, lakes, forests and skyscrapers.

4. Monsoons And Haboobs

Every area experiences inclement weather, and the valley is no exception. June to September is Arizona’s monsoon season, where residents will experience strong winds and rainstorms. Haboobs, which are large dust storms, generally follow in the monsoon’s footsteps.

5. Growing Population

The affordable cost of living combined with a booming job market have made Arizona a premier place to live. Phoenix is listed as the 5th-largest city in the country. Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and Sedona continue to grow due to many retirees settling in these areas.

Phoenix, Arizona

6. It Does Snow In Arizona

The northern half of this state will experience some snowfall during wintertime. Areas like Phoenix and Tucson will remain warm year-round, but cities like Flagstaff and Sedona can become winter wonderlands.

7. Great For Sports Fans

Known as a golfer’s paradise, the valley offers many world-class resorts and destinations. From Sedona to Tucson, retirees’ can enjoy their favorite hobby in style. The PGA’s Waste Management Phoenix Open is played annually in Scottsdale, as well. There’s more than just golf in Arizona, though! Residents also enjoy watching teams in all four major sports, including the Diamondbacks (MLB), Cardinals (NFL), Suns (NBA) and Coyotes (NHL).

8. The Wild West

Long before Arizona was even a state, it was home to some of the world’s most infamous outlaws. Many historic gunfights and showdowns occurred in the valley, as well. Many of these old western towns remain preserved, which makes for some great day-trips.

9. Diverse Food And Drink

Have you ever tried a Sonoran dog or cactus jelly? Well, if you move to Arizona you will have try some of their diverse food and drink offerings. Try a Sonoran dog and wash it down with the desert-inspired prickly pear margarita.

10. The Grand Canyon State

The world’s greatest wonder, otherwise known as the Grand Canyon, is located in Arizona. Residents can enjoy breathtaking views of the mile-deep gorge that spans 277 miles.

Grand Canyon

11. Booming Job Market

The higher cost of living in some of the most desirable spots in the state can be offset by an abundance of job opportunities. Arizona features a growing tech industry, with Apple, Uber and Lyft recently setting up offices in the valley. Small and large companies continue to flock to Arizona for its affordability and innovation.

12. Most Sun In The U.S.

The state of Arizona gets 299 sunny days per year, which is the most in the entire country. Even the sunshine state of Florida does not receive as much sun as Arizona. Get a healthy dose of vitamin D when you move to the valley of the sun.

13. Tourist Season

Many people, especially retirees, desire a place like Arizona because it seems very isolated and secluded. This is certainly not the case during the cooler months. This time of the year will bring a lot of tourists to the area. Known as “snowbirds”, these tourists will cause an increase in traffic from October to April.

14. Fewer Tax Burdens

Arizona offers less tax burdens for residents compared to other states. Allowing residents to keep as much of their income as possible has helped the valley grow exponentially for several decades.

15. Beautiful Scenery

Arizona offers much more than gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. The valley of the sun is home to some of the best scenic hiking trails in the world. Sedona is home to the famous red rocks, plus mountain ranges, lakes and desert beauty can be seen all over the state.

Monument Valley Arizona

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

More Articles About Senior Living

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5
How To Save For Retirement Without A 401k
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

How To Save For Retirement Without A 401k

How can you save money for retirement without having a 401k plan? Let’s look at a few options!

Saving For Retirement Without A 401k Tips

There are plenty of alternative ways to save money for individuals without a 401k. Most freelancers and self-employed workers have no 401k offering, yet there are five easy tips to follow for saving towards retirement.

Tip 1. Save Tax Refunds

The easiest way to begin saving money is by putting away your entire tax return as soon as you receive it. Make a habit of doing this every single year, if you can afford to do so. There are a few different ways to save or invest this return each tax season. IRS form 8888, for example, will allow taxpayers to deposit the refund directly into two of more savings/investment accounts.

Tip 2. Open An IRA

One of the more popular options for employees without a 401k plan is opting to open an IRA. A Roth IRA or a traditional IRA will prove beneficial in the long run. Another important piece of information about these plans is they are not an exclusive offering. Any individual currently earning an income is free to open an IRA. This includes both unmarried individuals and individuals who are married to a spouse earning an income. Most freelancers or self-employed workers choose to open an IRA.

Tip 3. Contribute To A CD

Another options for individuals without a 401k is opening a certificate of deposit (CD). The biggest benefit of opening a CD is that you are free to withdraw your money on demand, in most cases. This is great in the event you run into some sort of pressing financial situation or medical emergency. CDs are also insured by the federal government to never lose value.

Tip 4. Self-Employed 401k Plan

Also known as a solo 401k, a self-employed 401k plan allows you to contribute twice. This is possible because you are allowed to contribute both as an employer and employee. As long as your total earnings does not surpass $19,500, you can contribute up to 100% of your yearly income. When contributing as the employer, though, you can only contribute up to 25% of your yearly income. Spouses of participants of this plan are also eligible to open a self-employed 401k.

Tip 5. Health Savings Account

Whether or not you have chosen to open an IRA or contribute to a CD, you should consider the idea of opening an additional health savings account. A health savings account (HSA) has many benefits, including tax-free withdrawals and growth potential. After the age of 65, you are eligible to take money out of this account with no penalties.

When Should I Start Saving For Retirement?

The financial experts say that everyone should begin saving as soon as they can, of course. While this seems to be a case of easier said than done, there are many available savings options for young people. A great rule of thumb is to put away 10% of your monthly income each and every month. For example, putting away 10% of your $5,000 monthly income will lead to $500 in savings. $500 saved each month for a year will equate to $6,000 in yearly savings. Not a bad start at all when it comes to saving for retirement!

Starting the savings process in your 20s will help cover you for any stock market dips. Charles Schwab conducted a recent survey which revealed that Americans believe they need to save $1.7 million by age 65. If this is the target figure, it means you will have to save a minimum of $500 per month, beginning at age 25.

Saving this amount of money monthly can be unreasonable in many cases. Many 25-year-olds are just starting out in the job market. Others may be struggling to pay off student loans and/or raising a young family. If you decide to kick your retirement savings days down the road, then the amount you’ll have to save each month will undoubtedly increase.

Average Age When Americans Start Saving For Retirement

According to Morning Consult, these are the average age groups when Americans start saving for retirement:

  • Ages 20-29: 39%
  • Ages 30-39: 25%
  • Ages 40-49: 15%
  • Ages 50-59: 6%

Retirement Savings

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

More Articles About Senior Living

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What Age Can You Stop Filing Income Taxes
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

What Age Can You Stop Filing Income Taxes?

For the tax year 2021, you may stop filing taxes at age 65 if:

  • You are at least 65 years old, unmarried and making less than $14,250.
  • You are at least 65 years old, married, filing jointly and making less than $26,450.
  • You are a qualified widow, earning less than $26,450.

The IRS will want individuals to file a tax return whenever your gross income surpasses the total of the standard deduction for your specific filing status, in addition to one exemption amount. The filing rules still apply to seniors who are living off their social security. If you are a senior citizen, though, you don’t consider your social security as your gross income. You will not need to file a tax return if social security is your only source of income.

When Do Seniors Have To File Taxes?

For the current tax year, you must file a tax return if you are 65-plus, unmarried and your gross income is at least $14,250. However, if you live on your social security benefits, you will not need to include this in your gross income, according to TurboTax. You do not need to file if this is your sole source of income, meaning your gross income comes out to zero dollars. If you do earn additional income, that is not tax exempt, then you must figure out whether the total exceeds $14,250.

Whenever you and your spouse are at least 65 years old, married and filing jointly, you have to file a return if your combined income is $27,800 or more. If your spouse is below the age of 65, then the threshold amount decreases to $26,450. These figures were implemented during the 2018 tax year, so make sure to check if the amounts have increased.

When To Include Social Security In Gross Income

Certain situations will call for seniors to add social security benefits in their gross income. If you are married, filing an individual tax return and residing with your spouse, 85% of your social security benefits will be deemed gross income. In this case, you may need to file a tax return. An allotment of social security benefits will be included in your gross income, regardless of status, in any year the total of half your social security, including all other income, tax-exempt interest, exceeding $25,000 or $32,000 as long as you are married and filing jointly.

When Do You Stop Paying Taxes On Social Security?

You are allowed to stop paying taxes on social security at 65 as long as your total income is not a high figure. You can read all about taxes and social security rules right here courtesy of Turbo Tax.

Tax Credits For Seniors

Even if you must file a tax return, there are a few ways to decrease the amount you’ll pay on your taxable income. As long as you are 65-plus years old and your income from alternative sources than social security are not high, then tax credits for seniors can lessen your tax bill. This tax credit is only useful when you owe the IRS.

Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at (623) 624-4406 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

Senior Living
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10
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Cost Of Memory Care Facilities Near Me

Memory Care Cost

The average cost of memory care is $5,655 a month with costs ranging from $1,595 to $9,715 in Youngtown, Arizona in 2022.

The average costs for memory care ranges from $1,595 – $9,715+ a month. Prices shift dependent on location, services, and elderly care needs. While many services such as meals, medication handling, and group activities will be included, others will not. I.e., residents could have access to clothe washing services, lunch trips, or beauty amenities, like hair-cuts or pedicures, but those could cost extra.

When a senior is suffering with Alzheimer’s of Huntington’s disease, keeping them safe and well takes precedence that could be mentally and emotionally draining on their loved ones. Concerning demeanors that can be hard to safely control, such as roaming and aggressiveness, begin to emerge. For family care takers, like spouses and adult children, fulfilling their loved one’s complicating — and changing — requirements can be a major struggle.

The following are some ways to pay for memory care:

  • Medicare
  • Medicaid
  • Life Insurance
  • Long-Term Care Insurance
  • Reverse Mortgages

Memory Care At Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at (623) 624-4406 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

Memory Care, Senior Living
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11 Signs It Might Be Time For Assisted Living
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

11 Signs It Might Be Time For Assisted Living

Here are 11 common signs that it may be time to consider assisted living care for your loved one.

1. Chronic Health Issues

Unfortunately, chronic health problems will only worsen with age. Additionally, the immune system can weaken, meaning illnesses will last longer at this point. If your loved one is experiencing any sort of chronic issues, then now is the time to consider a transition into assisted living care.

2. Aggressive Behavior

Individuals suffering from dementia will become more and more agressive as the disease progresses. This is not a reflection in any way of how the individual is being cared for, it’s simply an effect of dementia.

Caring for someone who exhibits aggressive behavior can be overwhelming. Verbal and physical abuse are clear indicators that 24/7 care is needed. Dealing with an aggressive individual is a task best left to the trained professionals.

3. Recent Falls/Injuries

The frequent occurrence of falls in and around the home is an indicator that alternative care is necessary. Mobility issues are all-too-common for seniors, and there are many problem areas in most homes. If your loved one takes a nasty spill and can’t get to the phone to call for help, it could have disastrous consequences.

4. Difficulty With Daily Tasks

For some seniors even the easiest of tasks can be difficult to accomplish. When typical housework like cooking and cleaning becomes too complicated, it may be time to consider assisted living.

Most assisted living communities can take care of a residents’ daily needs. Meal plans, along with laundry services and routine cleanings will help rid the burden of tougher daily activities.

5. Forgetting To Take Medicine

This is one of the most important areas to monitor if you are concerned about a loved one’s health and safety. Forgetting once in awhile is okay, but if this becomes a pattern, it’s very worrisome. A medicine regiment is crucial to keep health conditions under control. Try looking into some systems for daily reminders. If the system(s) fails, though, assisted living care is the best option.

Medicine

6. Bad Eating Habits

Inability to cook will undoubtedly lead to a decline in eating habits. This doesn’t just mean poor nutrition, it could mean eating during irregular hours, as well.

Thankfully, assisted living communities will provide meal and snack services each and every day. Good nutrition is vital to maintain both physical and mental health. Assisted living communities can cater to your specific dietary needs and restrictions.

7. Poor Hygiene

When suffering from dementia, good hygiene is one of the first things to go out the window. Individuals may not bathe as often or cleanse properly. When this becomes noticeable, it’s wise to start looking around at assisted living options.

8. Isolation

Seniors struggling with physical or mental issues will not drive as often. This could unfortunately lead to withdrawal from society. Symptoms of isolation or depression should trigger the thought of extra care. Communities will typically offer a plethora of activities designed to promote social interaction.

9. Sundowner’s Syndrome

This is a condition where individuals with dementia become more agitated at day’s end. Essentially, this is when seniors have exerted all of their mental energy for the day. Sundowner’s syndrome is a clear sign that someone can’t survive independently.

10. Wandering

As mental awareness wanes, loved ones may be concerned about individuals wandering off and getting lost. This is a valid fear because it happens often to seniors. If this a concern of yours, do not wait until it is too late to put your loved one in a safe and secure environment.

11. Caregiver Stress

There may come a time when caring for a senior is simply overwhelming. Caregiver stress is common, whether it is a loved one or paid professional. Whenever care proves too difficult, it’s time to look at assisted living options.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

More Articles About Senior Living

Assisted Living
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When Might Be The Best Time To Start Saving For Retirement
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

When Might Be The Best Time To Start Saving For Retirement?

The first step towards retirement is saving as much money as possible. When is the best time to start saving, though? We’re here to provide some tips on saving towards retirement.

When To Start Saving For Retirement

The financial experts say that everyone should begin saving as soon as they can, of course. While this seems to be a case of easier said than done, there are many available savings options for young people. A great rule of thumb is to put away 10% of your monthly income each and every month. For example, putting away 10% of your $5,000 monthly income will lead to $500 in savings. $500 saved each month for a year will equate to $6,000 in yearly savings. Not a bad start at all when it comes to saving for retirement!

Starting the savings process in your 20s will help cover you for any stock market dips. Charles Schwab conducted a recent survey which revealed that Americans believe they need to save $1.7 million by age 65. If this is the target figure, it means you will have to save a minimum of $500 per month, beginning at age 25.

Saving this amount of money monthly can be unreasonable in many cases. Many 25-year-olds are just starting out in the job market. Others may be struggling to pay off student loans and/or raising a young family. If you decide to kick your retirement savings days down the road, then the amount you’ll have to save each month will undoubtedly increase.

How To Save Money

Perhaps you are already out of your 20s and you haven’t started saving for retirement yet. Experts suggest the next best time to begin saving money is now! At this point, putting away any dollar amount you can afford is a good start. If possible, jump on your employer’s 401 (k) plan as soon as possible. Opening a traditional IRA can provide even more investment opportunities than the typical 401 (k) plan. An IRA comes with a $6,000 contribution limit for anyone under age 50.

Fortunately, there are a few other ways one can save money for retirement. Begin by putting away any unexpected or extra cash flow. This could include anything from birthday checks to bonuses. Try avoiding any luxury purchases until you know for sure that you can afford it. Put away any and all spare change for the time being. Picking up a part-time job could also prove beneficial towards retirement savings.

Retirement Savings

Average Age When Americans Start Saving For Retirement

According to Morning Consult, these are the average age groups when Americans start saving for retirement:

  • Ages 20-29: 39%
  • Ages 30-39: 25%
  • Ages 40-49: 15%
  • Ages 50-59: 6%

Tips For Spending Less Money And Saving For Retirement

One important thing to do when saving for retirement is to examine your current spending habits. Here are three simple ways to save right now:

Re-Consider Big Purchases

All large purchases need to be thought about for long periods of time. Can you make do without that new car or home renovation? If an upgrade is needed, consider some low-cost alternatives. The money you save today could be used tomorrow in your retirement.

Consolidate Your Credit Card Debt

Shifting some of your higher-interest credit card debt to a lower-interest debt consolidation loan could undoubtedly leave you with some additional savings to put towards your retirement fund.

Decrease Your Credit Card Debt

Easier said than done, but decreasing your credit card debt today is crucial. Here’s a tip: pay your credit card bills in full every month to avoid any interest charges. If that’s not possible at this point, work to pay down your credit card debt as quickly as you can.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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Best Low Stress Jobs After Retirement
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Written by Brian B

Best Low Stress Jobs After Retirement

Are you looking for some work after retirement, yet want to keep the stress to a minimum? Here are a few of the best low stress jobs after retirement.

Tour Guide

There may not be a more relaxing and enjoyable job after retiring than guiding tours. With this role, you’ll likely be interacting with fun and excited tourists. Share your knowledge of the area or certain landmarks as a paid tour guide. A great benefit of this job is the flexible hours since most tours will run at nights or on the weekends.

Data Entry

Perhaps working as a tour guide doesn’t appeal to you since you’ll have to leave the home and interact with lots of people. If you’re instead interested in working from home, then a data entry position could be a perfect fit. Data entry appeals to many because you won’t have to deal with customers all day, unlike customer service representatives. All you might need for this position is a laptop and basic computer skills.

Customer Service Representative

Many people do miss the social interaction that was created in the workplace. For these type of retirees, customer service roles are ideal. In these positions, you will either speak with customers on the phone or interact with them online. A large majority of these positions went remote during the pandemic, so there should be many openings.

Career Coach

The younger generation is constantly seeking career advice. That is where you could come in! Consider the idea of helping those in need of career coaching. If you’ve seen it all during your working days, then share your knowledge, including resume and interview tips. Online video platforms like Zoom and Skype can be used to do this job from home.

Career Coach

Writer

Previous experience or not, writing can be a great outlet for retirees. For those looking to start out writing, there are plenty of online opportunities. Some gigs may not pay at first, but the experienced gained will come in handy. Consider performing the role of editor if you have years of experience.

Musician

You might have ditched many hobbies once your career took off, but retirement is the time to pick those fun hobbies back up! If playing an instrument was a big part of your past, you can now implement it into your present and future, as well. Place an ad or look for any musicians wanted in the local area. Sure, the pay might not be great, but this is about the joy of music.

Pet Sitting

There are many ways to get more animals in your life. Thanks to numerous websites and applications, dog walking or pet sitting is just a click away. Busy adults nowadays are looking for people to walk their dog(s) during the workdays. You can even offer to watch the animals overnight.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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