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Our state senator from 2023 bought a condo in IL. The biggest revolt came when residents were told to get their newspapers from the front desk due to staff cutbacks. The management caved within a day.

Living there is like being on a cruise ship, but better. There’s a warm water pool, there are fantastic gardens, and there is always something to do.
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farmkiti Aug 31, 2024
I like your cruise ship analogy. Seems appropriate!
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I wouldn't make quick moves. I would think of the downsizing first and stay where you are if you find that ALF are of about the same cost where you are as opposed to IL. WHY do you think Illinois would be better than where you are? Is there family?

Start slow. For instance, in my town good public transit and there are library "movie days", getting to know tech days, knitting classes. Look at nearby senior centers that may serve lunch. Consider joining a faith based community. I am an atheist but there are Unitarians and such I could quite come to love for companionship, a few games, and etc.

Meanwhile explore online the costs of ALF in Illinois (if that's one choice) and where you are (if that's another).

Consider taking in a boarder but BE CAREFUL and have them fully vetted with great recommendations; can be difficult to dislodge if a poor fit.

I would continue on this year until the anniversary of the loss of your dear hubby. I myself and and would be quite content alone. Am by nature a bit of a loner. Not everyone is. Get interested in something. Collage, sketching, photography, classes offered by your doctors group or hospital, Thai Chi great for balance. Write your memoirs. Take up PODCASTS. (Start with Hysterical and Noble!). Read a lot more. Branch out into the world a bit, keep the joints oiled with walks. Consider fostering. Kittens? a dog through a rescue? We at 82 and 84 are still fostering.

Good luck. My condolences on your loss. I am sure you speak with him often. Problem is that they won't answer us back when they go ahead of us.
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cwillie Aug 31, 2024
I'm pretty sure in this instance the OP is referring to Independent Living, not Illinois 😜.
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Me? I would go with IL and when I feel the need I will.

People around, activities, yet the freedom to drive my wheels, shop and enjoy life.
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farmkiti Aug 31, 2024
Thank you for your positive take on IL. I'm leaning that way now.
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I think you should definitely consider moving into senior housing! I set my parents up in a great apartment in IL when they moved here in 2011. They loved it because it was centrally located and they could walk to restaurants, banks, grocery stores, etc. They had meals available IF they wanted, and free breakfast daily. Quite a few activities and social gatherings on site along with a newcomer committee to get new move in's acquainted. It really was ideal. My dad was shy but even he made friends easily there and played cards with the men. My mother was a social butterfly so she was fine in IL and AL as well. I think you'd be a lot less lonely if you were to move to a senior complex, I really do.

Best of luck with your upcoming surgeries. And my condolences on the loss of your dear husband.
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farmkiti Aug 31, 2024
Thank you so much for your encouraging and compassionate answer. I am now pretty sure I'll go the IL route after my surgery, and after I sell my house, etc.
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My personal timeline is to reevaluate my life at age 75 to see if I need to downsize or make any changes - there are lots of types of 50+ communities that might suit your needs better (and will be much cheaper and more flexible than an IL facility)
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