How Budget Cuts Affect Senior Retirement Community Residents in Washington

At a certain time each year a new budget is proposed and issued. This new budget is intended to keep the entity operating as intended. For profit-oriented entities, the bottom line (profit) is the main issue. There usually are items from the previous year that are either cut or eliminated from the current year's budget. Many retirement communities, in particular, have decreased budgets in 2006. How do these budget cuts affect senior retirement community residents in Washington? This is a firsthand account of what I have seen.

First of all, many retirement communities decrease the meals available. I have known some to go from three meals a day to two. Other communities go so far as only providing one meal a day. I have seen residents wrap their food up and take it up to their rooms for later. Food is only one area where budget cuts affect senior retirement community residents in Washington.

Entertainment is another area where drastic cuts have been made in the 2006 budget. Many retirement communities have to find other ways to entertain their residents besides 'outside entertainment'. If communities are intent on keeping paid entertainment, it is at a reduced rate. Some retirement communities are turning to CDs and television shows. Or, still other retirement communities are turning to volunteers. In fact, more and more retirement communities are relying on volunteer entertainers for their residents. Luckily, there are some very enjoyable entertainers available on the market. There are many retired entertainers who willingly share their talents to help others smile. I have seen a tap-dancing group of 80 year olds that are phenomenal! Still, entertainment is another way that budget cuts affect senior retirement community residents in Washington.