I have definitely received a few comments and emails with this tone lately. Here are some of the consistent themes challenging the concept of travellers in retirement communities:
- Increased liability and exposure for the community and residents
- Different tax structure and government regulations
- Potential for criticism from the hotel industry
- Most people won’t want to invest time with the residents
All of these are very valid points, and this is also a great opportunity for me to remind the readers that a lot of the concepts I throw out there are just ideas – I like getting critical feedback because it gives us the potential to turn some of these ideas into reality.
Here are a few of my thoughts on how a retirement community might address the challenges outlined above.
First, my vision of the characteristics of the ideal traveler might be someone who is:
- Looking for a different experience
- Open to spending a small amount of time in the community with the residents
- Will be returning to the community periodically for additional trips
- Has a common bond to the resident(s) such as a profession, interest or hobby
- Has agreed to specific “rules” set by the community and perhaps even submitted to a background check
As you can see I wouldn’t suggest opening the doors to all travelers, just a select few. A typical community might only have 2-3 people a year in this “club”. Operating under this concept these guests can simply be classified as guests of the community, similar to family members that might stay in a guest suite.
Most communities have a fund or charity that they support. Instead of charging the traveler for the room directly perhaps the traveler can make a contribution to a fund like this which could offset the funds coming directly from the community and might make this a program that favorably benefits the bottom line.
If this concept works in a specific community and is beneficial to the residents, travelers and community over time – then the community might consider taking more formal steps that might classify themselves as a “hotel”.
Remember, I am just throwing “wacky” ideas out there to get us to think differently about our system of eldercare!
Mr. Gurney,
I have watched this thread with intrigue and do understand both sides of the discussion. I am actually familiar with the community you are staying at in Center City Philadelphia.
What I think readers should understand is that not every retirement community is exactly alike. When you’ve seen one, you’ve seen one. The particular community you selected is very unique with its location and amenities. You’ve found a gem that actually provides a program for you to stay in a well-appointed apartment with venues, programs and a culture to immerse yourself in during your stay if you choose to do so.
I applaud your efforts to get out of your apartment and spend time with the residents that call that community home. I’ll bet you lunch you had many laughs, made new friends that you will want to stay in touch with and have learned a thing or two from them (or perhaps during a cooking class they may be having that night). I have personally forged relationships with folks 50 years my senior over just one meal shared together.
To those that are quick to discredit this idea on some national level, you may be right but I hope not. For this community, your stay sounds a lot better than sitting in a stale hotel room with room service and a rerun on cable.