COMMUNITIES
TIPS ON RESEARCHING
SENIOR COMMUNITIES IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT PLACE FOR YOU OR YOUR LOVED ONEIN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA, BE PREPARED BEFORE YOU GET STARTED.
Fort Myers, 33908 829-5119 • pacificaseniorliving.com THE PRESERVE 14750 Hope Center Loop, Fort Myers, 33912 574-0078 • thepreservevoa.org THE ROSE GARDEN OF FORT MYERS
2117 Earl Road, Fort Myers, 33901 215-1337 • rosegardenassistedliving.com
START YOUR RESEARCH EARLY Compare the senior communities in your area. Begin actively planning where you want to be today, before health problems develop. Determine the kind of lifestyle and health care options you want for yourself and narrow down your choices. Don’t feel rushed, but don’t procrastinate. Don’t be one of those people who end up saying, “I wish I hadn’t waited so long.”
UNDERSTAND THE HEALTH CARE COMPONENT What levels of care are available? Does the staff seem caring and professional? Are there activities for the residents who are receiving care? What is the community licensed to provide, and what are the costs should care be needed? This is a very important part of your research.
MEET THE RESIDENTS DECIDE WHAT SERVICES AND AMENITIES ARE IMPORTANT TO YOU Make a list of services, amenities, and features that are important to you. Remember: You are not just thinking about today but planning for your future.
VISIT AND TAKE NOTES Once you have narrowed down your choices, take tours. Can you visualize yourself living in this community? How do the grounds look? Is the staff friendly? Is the environment clean, well-maintained, and nicely appointed?
ASK QUESTIONS Come prepared with a list of questions. If you don’t ask questions, you won’t be able to make an informed decision. You should feel certain that the staff is answering your questions and addressing your concerns.
EVALUATE THE FINANCIAL ARRANGEMENTS There are a variety of financial arrangements available. These might include rentals, equity, and entrance fees. Learn the pros and cons of each. Understand what is included and what is “extra.”
Can you envision the residents as your neighbors?
DINE AT THE COMMUNITY The more you can experience the lifestyle, the better. How is the atmosphere in the dining room? Is there a dress code for dinner? Does the menu offer good variety? Is the service attentive? Does the chef accommodate dietary requirements? Will you enjoy dining here?
THE WINDSOR OF CAPE CORAL
831 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral, 33991 772-9400 • legendseniorliving.com THRIVE AT BEACHWALK
15800 Beachwalk Blvd., Fort Myers, 33908 349-3769 • thrivesl.com
MEMORY CARE ARDEN COURTS OF FORT MYERS 15950 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, 33908 454-1277 • arden-courts.com
REVIEW PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES Ask for an event calendar to see if there are programs and activities of interest to you. Are there a variety of educational, social, cultural, and fitness programs available? Can residents volunteer within the community? Are special travel opportunities available to residents?
GET YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS INVOLVED If your family or friends can aid you in deciding, ask them to evaluate your top choices. They may raise questions you haven’t considered.
SEEK THE ADVICE OF A PROFESSIONAL Utilizing a senior housing advisor can help you narrow down your choices and provide valuable insight about the places you are considering.
BROOKDALE FORT MYERS THE COLONY
13565 American Colony Blvd., Cape Coral, 33912 308-0498 • brookdale.com BROOKDALE SANTA BARBARA 911 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral, 33991 308-0499 • brookdale.com GULL POINT AT ESTERO
22900 Lyden Drive, Estero, 33928 221-6120 • willowriverseniorliving.com INSPIRED LIVING AT BONITA SPRINGS
27221 Bay Landing Drive, Bonita Springs, 34135 963-2927 • inspiredliving.care
(Source: Seniors BlueBook, seniorsbluebook.com)
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SUMMER 2022
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