When a family visits an assisted living retirement community, the first inclination may be to say the new residence is too small.
“Because of this, we rarely speak in terms of square footage because senior living residences are designed to live differently and are more lifestyle-focused,” said Martinez. “A senior living community offers a world of space within an entire building rather than within an individual residence.”
Senior living is about lifestyle and the many benefits offered through this concept. A comparison can be made to cruise travels. Staterooms are often less than 200 square feet, but someone soon realizes that he/she rarely spends time within their cabin as activities, entertainment and dining are found throughout the ship. There are also a host of areas for socializing and relaxation. A senior community is much the same.
At The Palace Gardens, an award-winning assisted living and memory care community, activities are located on the first floor and residents enjoy a luxurious plaza much like the living room in a home where they can relax, watch the large screen TV and socialize. There’s a library, theater, dining room and arts and craft studio.
“We suggest that someone who is contemplating a move think about their daily routine and notice the places that are actually used within their current residence. So much is unused space,” added Martinez. “One finds they no longer use their living and dining rooms or secondary bedrooms. They inhabit less of the home than they realize. Plus, there is a safety factor as well as upkeep of this unused space.”
At The Palace Gardens, the functionality of the space, traffic patterns and accessibility are taken into account. Attention to details in planning the community included ceiling height and window positioning, which contribute to a feeling of spaciousness. Residents also have the option to select residences with built-ins that offer flat-screen TVs, nightstands and shelves and bookcases.
Every routine and activity that one desires can be found outside one’s front door at a retirement community. From reading the morning paper over coffee to taking a swim in the pool, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
There’s also the added convenience of having these amenities within the building and accessible without leaving the premises. And like a cruise, entertainment, social activities, classes, and exercise can be enjoyed every day.
Additionally, all of the amenities can be shared with visiting families because the entire community is for residents’ use. When someone laments where he or she will entertain, there’s an entire building to enjoy within a few feet of their residence.
At this time in your parent’s lives, encourage them to reflect on how their lives would be enhanced without the added responsibilities of home maintenance and repairs or cleaning and cooking.
Also, offer your support and guidance. This is a new chapter in their lives.
To help you and your family decide if an assisted living community would be a smart move, we hope you will come and tour The Palace Gardens in Homestead. To learn more, please call 305.247.0446 or visit www.ThePalace.org
