Time to move to retirement home?

My husband had to pass a simple cognitive exam and show that he was able to ambulate independently. The problem is trying to guess how much time you have before he won't be able to do so. He also wasn't driving when we moved in. The CCRC provides weekly bus trips to local stores. I still drive so it is not a concern. Also in the last 7 years the amount we were required to pay as a buy in has increased about 70,000 dollars. It is never going to cost less than now.
If this is something that you believe you will need in the future then now is the time to look. Some facilities have waiting lists that take several years depending on the type of unit you want. I looked for a facility that had every level of care and I toured them all, not just IL. Because we moved before it was necessary he was with me in IL for the first 5 years. Then his mobility issues caused his move to assisted living where he remained for a year. He moved to skilled care in January 2025.
This was not an easy decision or move. We moved to a state where we had never lived because it was close to our daughter and her family but the facility is lovely and was financially reasonable.

@judimahoney that is good to know. My 82 year old mother was just diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia. My 83 year old father is completely overwhelmed. My parents have always been very closed mouthed about their finances and still will not discuss it with my sisters and I. However, after meeting with the Home Health social worker he has finally relented to meeting with the Elder Care Lawyer but wants me to do it as he doesn’t think he will be able to understand what is going on. We had to do a lot of translating for him after the geriatric doctor and social worker appointments. I am waiting to hear from the lawyer about how to move forward.

I would recommend seriously considering moving sooner rather than later for all the good reasons given by others. Based on what I have heard in my local support group, people have also been very happy that they made the move early.
- There is a limited number of options in each location and you do not want to be surprised about missing a window of eligibility.
- The whole downsizing process is grueling and once your partner is more advanced, you may not have the bandwidth to manage it.
- Establishing a bit of history in the new home is good for both of you. People get a chance to know your partner when he is more "himself"

It is not easy. We are in a lovely area that is familiar to my husband and that has a lot of places and events that have allowed us to stay very active, which has been great for him and for me. But I am far from family members.

@turtle4115
This is so helpful. Thank you!