Hawaii Senior Living
The beautiful Aloha state of Hawaii, an archipelago of eight islands, is certainly a retiree's fantasy. The gorgeous weather, beautiful sunsets and abundant activities are just a few of the reasons to encourage realizing this dream. Reality can often contain some inconvenient truths and the few cons of island living may outweigh, or at least balance, the pros. The cost of senior living in Hawaii varies slightly from island to island with O'ahu being the costliest but also the most famous with Honolulu, Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, Waikiki, The USS Arizona Memorial, and Hanauma Bay.
Hawaii boasts a senior population of 65 and over at 14.7% compared to the 2011 national average of 13.3%, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. A greater number of seasoned citizens equates to more options for those looking into Hawaii senior living on these paradise isles.
Hawaii Assisted Living Costs
Independent Living Facilities are a touch different than Assisted Living services in that they may not organize social events for seniors, though some will offer occasional group outings. These are more the retirement communities that also tend to offer laundry service, weekly housekeeping and three daily meals but do not assist with basic daily tasks or health issues. Independent living averages $3,198 a month and slides between $2,999 and $3,495 dependent on location. *From the SeniorHomes.com 2012 Independent Living Cost Survey. (http://www.seniorhomes.com/p/independent-living-costs/)
The Hawaii State Department of Health monitors, licenses and regulates all assisted living facilities statewide. Some benefits offered may include transportation, housekeeping, laundry service, 24 hour security, three daily meals in a commons area, and medication management.
Retiring in Hawaii
Paradise comes at a small price: living on the islands generally costs more than Mainland living due to several factors including higher shipping costs for incoming goods. Accordingly, senior living will generally cost more as well. However, Hawaii continues to enjoy a strong economy based mostly on tourism. With the national average annual income at $46,742, many residents enjoy a significantly higher average income.
As the Melting Pot of the Pacific, Hawaii boasts a unique cultural cross of Asian and Western attitudes and luxuries, with some of the most varied dining in the States. You can still find open-air markets and authentic goods from around the world in a conveniently compact area with a family friendly atmosphere.
Did you know that..?
- Salaries in Hawaii are among the highest in the U.S. averaging annually at $61,038. *www.averagesalarysurvey.com
- Honolulu's population is 337,256 people as of 2012, a 16.01% growth since 2000. *www.bestplaces.net
- Job growth in Hawaii is positive with an unemployment rate of 5.70% compared to the national average of 8.60%.
- The annual average temperature is a balmy 77 degrees Fahrenheit with few days over 90 and none under 32. *www.cityrating.com
Best Cities for Retirement in Hawaii
Hawaii, not being under one land mass as other States, possesses a variety of atmospheric options such as the bustling major city of Honolulu on O'ahu to quieter venues on Maui, Kauai or the Big Island. Honolulu is certainly one of the best known of all Hawaiian cities with a great deal to offer and a price tag to match. Lahaina is the happening city on Maui with an emphasis on dining choices and a plethora of art galleries and hundreds of shops to peruse. If you prefer a less Americanized and native way of life with more then Kauai may be your preferred retirement destination. Hilo, on the Big Island, is a restful town of only 45,000 people and a blossoming Mecca of health and wellness based on ancient Hawaiian remedies but it is still possible to witness the live magma spills of Mount Kilauea. Again, island hopping is quick and easy so taking in all the sights with a home base to return to is also an excellent choice.
Health Care in Hawaii
There are 17 consumer hospitals not including additional clinics and medical centers.
Hawaii has some unique healthcare options and its own structure. The state was awarded 4th in nation amongst the healthiest states in the Union. You may qualify for income eligible programs or medical assistance according to their laws.
Quick Medical Guide for Hawaii:
Activities for Seniors in Hawaii
Hawaii's options are limitless and curtailed only by individual preference or ability. In fact, senior living in Hawaii offers a ton of fun for the active senior. Bungee jump, cliff dive, parasail, go hiking or hunt for waterfalls, hire a catamaran or a glass bottom boat and enjoy the coral reefs; visit the many museums, galleries and historical sites. Hawaii is a land rich in culture and history and each island claims its own variance. There is a zoo, Sea Life Park, the Polynesian Cultural Center, whale watching, sun bathing, swimming, surfing, shopping, and an endless supply of adventure and beauty to be experienced and explored. Certainly there are community events such as theater and symphonies, plays and luaus (many of these are free on Waikiki), parks to stroll through and even senior Tai Chi at sunrise are yours to enjoy.
Local Weather
Overall the trade winds are soothing and the temperature hovers between 75 degrees in winter and 85 degrees during the day in summer. Nights are typically 10-15 degrees lower than the days during either of the two seasons. (The only two seasons the islands have.) Check out the weather in Hawaii right now.
Sharp Seniors has 4 Senior Living Facilities in Hawaii
- 4 of them offer Senior Living
- 3 of them offer Assisted Living
- 1 of them offer Respite
- 1 of them offer Alzheimer's Care
