When to Make the Move to a Retirement Community: A Q&A with Samantha Rapuk Posted on January 6, 2026January 6, 2026 Name: Samantha Rapuk Samantha Rapuk has been the Executive Director at the St. John Community in Mars, PA since 2021. Prior to that, she served as Associate Director for four years. She holds a Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration and a Certification in Gerontology from the University of Pittsburgh. 1. How do I know when it’s time to start thinking seriously about moving into a retirement community? The best time to start seriously considering a move to a retirement community is before you feel the need to relocate. Life happens quickly, and it’s easy to stay where you are most comfortable, but this is not always the safest option. Consider your environment — do you have stairs to access and exit? Do you have a yard that needs tending to? What about sidewalks and driveways in the winter? When it becomes unsafe for you to manage these tasks independently, it is time to consider a safer living option. Also consider your social circle. Are you able to get out and visit with friends and family? Are they able to easily visit you? There is a lot to be said for staying social as you age, and a retirement community provides that opportunity on a daily basis. 2. What signs suggest that living independently at home is becoming unsafe or impractical? When daily tasks become too hard or impossible, it may be unsafe or impractical to stay at home. Easily navigating your home without the risk of falling should be a top priority. Can you safely cook yourself a meal without forgetting it on the stove or in the oven? Can you remember to take your medications on time and as prescribed? These are all essential considerations when deciding if staying home is practical. 3. What levels of care are there, and is there one where seniors have the option to live more independently? There is a level of care for everyone in most retirement communities. Independent Living is the best option for individuals who can live independently but still want the safety and convenience of a retirement community. Most independent living options include meals, housekeeping, maintenance, social groups, and transportation for outings. Additionally, they are designed with older adults in mind — featuring no stairs to get in and out, covered parking, bathrooms with grab bars, and safety features such as smoke alarms. If someone is unable to live independently, there are also options for Personal Care and Assisted Living. Both options offer 24-hour supervision, three meals per day, assistance with activities of daily living like bathing and dressing, as well as medication management. When someone requires care that exceeds the capabilities of personal care or assisted living, or if they require rehabilitation after a hospital stay, a nursing facility is the next level of care available. 4. How can I tell what level of care is right for me? Picking the appropriate level of care can seem daunting. Fortunately, there are individuals employed by the community who can help you make that decision. They can review current medical records and speak with individuals and their families about their day-to-day life, making informed decisions about the appropriate level of care. Above all else, our goal is to ensure that our residents are functioning at their highest ability and doing so safely. 5. What questions should I ask when visiting potential retirement communities? When visiting retirement communities, it is important to ask for a clear description of what services are included in each level of care and how those services are provided. All communities are different, and it is never safe to assume that just because one community offers an amenity, the next one will as well. In addition, ask who will provide those services. Don’t be afraid to ask about staffing, social opportunities, or religious services. 6. What role should adult children play in helping make the decision? Adult children should assist and guide, but not decide for their parents. This is a big life change, and it should be approached with empathy and respect for independence. When adult children become caregivers, it’s natural to want to take charge, but being overly directive can create frustration and resistance. Support, don’t steer. 7. Are there benefits to moving earlier rather than waiting until health issues arise? There are absolutely benefits to moving sooner rather than later. Knowing when it’s right to move is a hard decision, but your quality of life will likely improve if you move before a health crisis occurs. When you move proactively, you maintain control over your decisions. Moving into a community also provides socialization — a critical, yet often overlooked, component of healthy aging. It keeps your mind active, your spirits up, and your connections strong. Additionally, communities provide meals, maintenance-free living, and safety features that help prevent injuries or isolation. 8. What is the biggest lifestyle adjustment seniors will have to get used to once they move in? This really depends on the person, but there is always an adjustment period. You’ll learn new routines, meet new people, and settle into a new space. More often than not, the biggest adjustment seniors face is deciding what to do with all their free time now that they no longer have to cook, shovel snow, or mow the lawn! 9. What are the emotional challenges of leaving a longtime home, and how can I make the transition easier? Any major life change can bring emotional challenges. It can be difficult to come to terms with new limitations or to rely on others. Feelings of grief — for your home, routines, or independence — are normal. Acknowledging these emotions and discussing them with loved ones or staff can be helpful. With time, most people find that the benefits of community living far outweigh the initial challenges.