Arizona is a popular choice for seniors who want to relocate. There’s no tax on social security income, and residents can enjoy plenty of sunshine without the risk of hurricanes.
Although Arizona has many benefits, it does have a dry climate with extreme temperatures during the summer months. Those planning on moving to an assisted living facility in Arizona can ease their transition by knowing what to expect from their move and preparing to adjust to an assisted living facility in Arizona’s desert.
What Should I Consider When Moving To Assisted Living in Arizona?
Two main groups of seniors move to assisted living facilities in Arizona. Some are Arizona residents transitioning to an assisted living facility. Others are moving from another state.
What Are the Benefits of Choosing Assisted Living in Arizona?
Life in Arizona assisted living centers differs from life in nursing homes because residents enjoy more independence. Facility staff plan outings and activities, encouraging residents to socialize, pursue hobbies, and enjoy new experiences.
Assisted living residents can rely on facility staff to cook, clean, and perform other tasks, such as laundry. Since staff handle the chores, residents can enjoy more free time pursuing their interests. Staff also assisted with personal care as needed.
The average monthly high temperature in Phoenix is 68 degrees from December through May, while the average high from September through November is 88 degrees. Arizona’s desert climate also produces dry heat, which is beneficial for those with arthritis because the warmer temperatures reduce joint pain.
What Types of Social or Recreational Activities Are Offered in Arizona Nursing Homes?
Nursing homes and assisted living facilities offer many social and recreational venues and opportunities, including the following:
- Community outings
- Exercise programs
- Golf
- Library visits
- Movies
- Picnic areas
- Spas
- Swimming
- Walking trails
Assisted living centers have community rooms where people can socialize, provide transportation assistance, and have computer centers.
Community outings can include visiting farmer’s markets, touring historic sites, or going to the theater.
How Can I Prepare for Arizona’s Desert Climate as a Senior?
Managing the desert climate when moving to assisted living in Arizona requires some adjustments. You can ease your transition to assisted living in Arizona by learning about the challenges for seniors and using tips to help you adapt.
What Are the Challenges of Living in a Desert Climate for Seniors?
Enjoying endless hours of sunshine sounds fantastic. You’ll get plenty of vitamin D and reduce the risk of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). However, heat exposure increases the risks of dehydration and heat-related conditions. Ways to prevent dehydration, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke include the following:
- Stay hydrated
- Wear light-colored clothing
- Wear loose clothes
- Stay in the shade or indoors from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Avoid vigorous physical activity
How Can I Stay Hydrated and Safe in Arizona’s Dry Heat?
Stay hydrated by drinking cold, non-alcoholic beverages. Keeping a water bottle with you at all times is a great habit to foster because you’ll always have water available. Eat fruits and vegetables that boost hydration levels, including the following:
- Bell peppers
- Cantaloupe
- Cucumber
- Lettuce
- Oranges
- Watermelon
How Does Arizona’s Climate Affect Seniors’ Health and Comfort?
Plenty of sunshine increases vitamin D production, strengthening the immune system and helping to keep bones strong and healthy.
However, the dry climate can aggravate respiratory issues like asthma and allergies. Those with respiratory problems may be at greater risk of complications when outdoors during high temperatures.
The high temperatures during the summer months may interfere with your ability to go outside and engage in preferred activities. Fortunately, the average high temperatures are manageable most months of the year.
When Is the Best Time of Year To Move To Assisted Living in Arizona?
You may want to avoid moving to assisted living in Arizona during the hottest months so that it’s easier to adapt to Arizona’s climate. Other moving tips to consider include the following:
- Avoid moving before family birthdays if you’re moving away from family
- Move before family birthdays if you’re moving closer to family
- Avoid moving away from family before important holidays
- Avoid moving during the holidays because that can cause feelings of homesickness
Moving during the fall months may be the best option because it gives you several months of moderate temperatures to adjust to Arizona’s climate. You can also be settled in your new home before the holiday season.
What Amenities Should I Look for in an Arizona Assisted Living Facility?
Tips to keep in mind when searching for an assisted living facility to call home include considering how you want to spend your time. Suppose you’re an avid swimmer; in that case, finding a facility with a pool would be a priority. Other amenities you should look for include the following:
- Fitness center
- Gardens
- Healthcare access
- Housekeeping
- Laundry services
- Onsite library
- Recreation rooms
- Transportation services
You may also prioritize a pet-friendly facility if you want to bring your pet or get a new pet after your move.
How Can I Make the Transition To Assisted Living as Smooth as Possible?
You’ll ease your transition to assisted living if you prepare thoroughly and research the area you’re moving to. Creating a list of local sites you want to visit or activities you want to pursue can give you things to look forward to and help you feel positive about your move.
Determine what you need and what you can let go of so you have essentials, photos, and other personal items that help you feel at home.
You can also make plans to check in with family and friends to avoid feeling isolated in your new home.
How Can You Help Your Loved One Adjust To Assisted Living in Arizona?
Have your loved one participate in decision-making to ensure they’re emotionally prepared for their move and feel empowered. Ensuring the facility suits their needs will help them make a successful transition. Plan to visit or check in via video chat so you can see how they’re adjusting and ensure they have what they need to thrive.
How Can You Ensure Your Senior Loved One Is Comfortable in the Heat?
Give your loved one a care package including things such as water bottles, cooling clothes, and neck fans, which they can use to stay hydrated and regulate their temperature. Take your loved one on a shopping trip and ensure they have loose, light-colored clothing. Also, make sure they have a hat or scarf they can wear to protect them from the heat when out in the sun.
Haven Health: Outstanding Assisted Living in Arizona
Haven Health provides exceptional senior living centers throughout Arizona. Our facilities ensure residents have access to healthcare, social opportunities, recreational activities, and personal care. Whether you’re moving from within Arizona or from another state, we’re here to help you transition to your new home.
Sources:
Average Temperatures in Arizona. (2024).
Mackin, T. (2023). 6 Reasons to Retire in Arizona.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD). (2021).