Senior Retirement in Utah

 

Retired Utahns in general are active, robust individuals who intend to keep on living their life as they did while working and raising their families, just more so. A few new hobbies might be added, more trips planned and maybe down-sizing of a home or yard might be considered. Maybe a try-out for the Huntsman World Senior Games could be considered, where participants are drawn from all 50 states and all over the world. The games are held in October each year with opening ceremonies, a talent show, dinners and dances. Twenty-two different events allow for a good number of seniors to participate. To date, the oldest participant was 96 years old.

As long as the funds are available - many choices for retirement living are available. Much consideration is given to location of family, friends, hobbies, their involvment in clubs, churches and general interests. Many decide to stay in their own home (often their biggest investment); they upgrade and remodel for more comfort and security.

Utah has been discovered as one of the most affordable and crime-free place to retire in by a growing number of seniors from other western and mid-western states. One of the “dream towns” for retirement living is St. George, the largest city in southern Utah with a population of 50,000, located near the Arizona and Nevada borders. Its first rate medical center, symphony orchestra, comfortable climate, excellent golf courses and affordable housing make this an excellent choice for retirement for those who like a desert climate.
 
For a more varied four-season climate, is Cedar City at an elevation of 5800 feet, surrounded by snow capped mountains, downhill and cross-country skiing? This cultured town of 22,000 has a beautifully preserved downtown.
 
Heber Valley nestled in the Wasatch Mountains between Provo and Salt Lake City is experiencing a strong surge of interest among retirees who enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and rugged beauty of the area. Rural valley, surrounded by alpine forests, lakes and streams and an extended wilderness, is also growing in popularity with retirees.
 
Logan, an attractive small city located 80 miles north of Salt Lake City has a thriving downtown and peaceful tree-lined neighborhood and is surrounded by pleasant rural areas. Utah State University with its 20,000 students adds youthful energy to this somewhat isolated area surrounded by mountains.

Looking for a life-style that caters to the retiree whose objective is personal security - in beautiful surroundings, socialization and where pampering is on the amenity list - a Retirement Community might just be right for those individuals. There are several options to choose from. Some offer single, small houses, others apartments within a large building, houskeeping, changes of linen, 2 or 3 meals a day prepared by a chef, outings, travel, exercise, recreation, transportation and many other services that are either included in the monthly rent or available for a reasonable fee.

Some Continuing Care Retirement Communities offer all of the above plus the guarantee to receive long-term care later in life, if neccessary. These communities are often buy-ins.