Retirement: Assisted Living vs. Cruise Ship Living

[Jan115]

I spotted two interesting articles this morning - one on Facebook, and the other a blog I stumbled upon. Since the idea of cruise ship retirement has been a hot topic in the media over the last couple of years, I thought they would make good conversation, so if you have time, read up and tell us what you think.

"Man Asks an Old Lady Why She's Alone on a Cruise Ship"

This one features the pros and cons of one woman who chooses to spend weeks at a time at sea on a cruise ship, while the writer compares this with "nursing home" living. Many of the arguments about preference of a cruise ship living over "nursing home" living in this piece are unrealistic, of course, but it makes for amusing reading. Anyone who needs true nursing home care and skilled nursing wouldn't be allowed on a cruise ship.

"Is Cruise Ship Retirement Cheaper than Assisted Living?"

This article is much more realistic in the argument, choosing the term "assisted living" over "nursing home", while raising serious issues with choosing to live your remaining days sailing around the world on a cruise ship.

Great food for thought. What do you think?

[jacketwatch]

Well a few issues.

Most people who retire, aside from the money issue have chronic medical problems and need regular visits to MD's. Then what about maintainence medications??. How would you get them?

Then there is the issue of confinement to a ship. And what about support from a social circle that you would not have.

I can't see this work for but a very, very few.

[Jan115]

My thoughts, too, Larry. I think one would have to be in excellent physical and mental health and be totally able to function solo without assistance.

[Minkster1973]

Although my initial thought was, "Heck yea! That's the way to live!" I really don't think I could or would do it.

Cruising is great because it's special and done on occasion. If I lived on a ship, I don't think I would consider it all that special after a while.

I think the beach life is something I'd find more enjoyable.

[Jan115]

Although my initial thought was, "Heck yea! That's the way to live!" I really don't think I could or would do it.

Cruising is great because it's special and done on occasion. If I lived on a ship, I don't think I would consider it all that special after a while.

I think the beach life is something I'd find more enjoyable.

I've already told my family, if the day comes when I need a nursing home, I want a bed facing the ocean!