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To meet the needs of a workforce seeking affordable housing in some of the highest cost of living parts of the country, senior living providers are taking matters into their own hands.
Two such operators, Naples, Florida-based Moorings Park in Naples and St. Paul, Minnesota-based Presbyterian Homes and Services, have a variety of projects underway to meet these needs.
Moorings Park, in a joint venture with real estate developer K2 Developers, acquired a Super 8 hotel and has been in the process of renovating it since September 2022, according to Mary Morton, chief financial officer of The Moorings Park Institute, Inc.
Part of the reason for doing so was addressing the immediate need expressed by workers who couldn’t afford to live in the area, where the average rent of a one-bedroom apartment is around $2,000 per month.
“We acquired [the] hotel in order to deliver much needed housing in a rapid manner relative to ground up development projects, which often take at least four years to get approved, built and stabilized,” Morton said.
For Presbyterian Homes and Services, the need for housing was found through an employee survey, where 19% of workers expressed an interest in workforce housing if the company could provide it, according to Senior Vice President Jon Fletcher.
“If they couldn’t find affordable housing, they may be forced to relocate elsewhere, potentially impacting their ability to continue working with us,” Fletcher said. “We view that as a very high percentage of our employees, that’s upwards of 1,400 of our employees.”
To address the need, Presbyterian Homes and Services acquired an existing independent living and assisted community and converted a portion of the units for workforce housing purposes. After the acquisition in September 2023, the first employees have already moved in and more are on the way, according to Fletcher.
For Moorings Park, the acquisition of the Super 8 hotel turned out to be immediately beneficial.
“The property was fully leased until just recently, because about two weeks after we acquired the property, our area was directly hit by Hurricane Ian,” Morton said. “We were fortunate to be able to provide much needed housing or immediate housing for those individuals who worked at Moorings Park and other local employers who lost their homes or had their homes badly damaged during the storm.”
While renovations are still underway, Morton added there has been positive feedback from the employees that have been living there so far.
In addition to the hotel, the Moorings Park Foundation collaborates with Habitat for Humanity to provide financial assistance for employees to purchase a Habitat for Humanity home and is helping fund the conversion of an old golf course into housing that will be available for essential workers and seniors through a public/private partnership between the county and two other local foundations. The project is noted to be the first of its kind in Florida.
Through discussions with employees, Fletcher said Presbyterian Homes and Services was able to identify a need of 20 to 40 apartments in the markets of St. Paul and Bloomington, Minnesota, and Stillwater, Minnesota. With its current offerings, the communities are designed to be independent senior living communities, and through the Fair Housing Act’s age exemption, 20% of those apartments can be occupied by individuals younger than 55, allowing for 20 to be used by employees.
Despite Presbyterian Homes still being early in the process for allowing workforce housing, Fletcher said there is a known demand. When the housing opportunity was communicated to employees, he said around 40 responded and said they were interested in living there.
“We know there’s demand,” Fletcher said. “At the same time, we also know employees need to terminate or wait until their current lease is ended, wherever they’re living.”
Another community that has been offering workforce housing, at Lake Minnetonka, consistently houses 30 employees. The net promoter scores from those employees are higher than other employees and their length of stay with the company is about twice as long.
“We find that those employees end up being what we call trees for the organization in terms of their longevity. It really helps to provide them with a stable affordable housing option,” Fletcher said.
With its latest project, Presbyterian Homes and Services charges between $800 and $1,500 for rent for all residents, making it intentionally affordable. The cost was determined by charging 60% of the median area income to keep prices below market rate.
Additionally, having affordable housing readily available has allowed both companies to fill vacant positions with foreign workers, whether they are nurses from the Philippines for Presbyterian Homes and Services or seasonal staff from the hospitality industry for Moorings Park.
Based on the current successes seen through the programs, both Fletcher and Morton said there are plans to add additional workforce housing solutions to their respective companies, though it is dependent on the demand.
There are challenges associated with providing workforce housing. Despite being faster than developing from the ground up, zoning and permitting can slow a project down, “not in my back yard” pushback from area residents and businesses due to the stigma of affordable housing.
The hotel acquired by Moorings Park, for example, despite being acquired in September 2022, is still obtaining the necessary zoning and permits for the renovations and as such an anticipated completion date for the project can’t be determined at this time.
“It’s just the process. It’s very complicated,” Morton said.
Another challenge, particularly for providers that operate in multiple regions, is determining where to put housing for employees. According to Fletcher, identifying areas with high concentrations of employees who want to live in provided housing is the key.
“It’s probably going to be more challenging to make it work in areas where we don’t have high concentrations of employees,” he said. “The reality is that even if you do provide employee housing, there might not be a huge percentage of your employees that want to live in housing that you provide as well, there’s probably a stigma associated with that.”
Because employers are providing housing for employees, there’s also the chance of blurring the lines between personal and professional life for residents. To avoid this, Morton suggests utilizing a property manager to handle day to day tasks, alongside implementing policies to “promote fairness and transparency” in housing related matters and smooth out the relationship between employer and employee.
Another approach is having a physical separation for the work and tenant experience, as well as providing privacy for tenants, which is what Fletcher said his company has been implementing.
“In the latest building that we acquired, we are targeting to have all the employees live on a certain floor. It’s easier for them to just kind of check out and go to their own floor so they’re not always having to interact with residents if they don’t want to,” he said.
For senior living providers looking to offer workforce housing, Morton suggests bringing on a development partner. Even if the project hadn’t worked out, she said, Moorings Park would have acquired an asset and it wouldn’t have been “an economic drain.”
“Forming a joint venture with our development partner allowed us to leverage their strengths and expertise, mitigate risks and access additional resources, ultimately contributing to a more resilient and sustainable business model,” she said.
Fletcher said he encourages other senior living providers to pursue affordable housing, despite the challenges, as it benefits the greater market.
“I would just encourage folks to try. They don’t necessarily need to try to bite off 100, 200 or 500 units at a time. Just small pockets of affordable units could probably go a long way,” he said.
For many families in Grand Junction, supporting an aging parent or loved one who lives alone often comes with questions about nutrition, safety, and maintaining independence, especially when it comes to meal preparation. You want to make sure theyre eating well, staying safe in the kitchen, and not overexerting themselves. Its a balancing act between helping and honoring their autonomy.This is a common concern, especially since nearly 1 in 3 adults aged 65 and older live alone. While many seniors manage well day to day, cooking can become more difficult with age due to low energy, reduced mobility, and safety risks. Fortunately, there are practical strategies that can help older adults prepare healthy meals while staying confident and independent.At Comfort Keepers Grand Junction, we believe seniors deserve support that empowers them to live with dignityand that includes making mealtime easier, safer, and more enjoyable. Below are a few simple strategies we often recommend, along with ways our caregivers can help make them happen.Batch Cooking for Time and Energy SavingsBatch cooking allows seniors to prepare multiple meals at once, saving effort throughout the week. Meals like soups, casseroles, or stews can be cooked in large portions and stored in clear, microwave-safe containers.Having nutritious meals ready to go can bring peace of mind, not only for your loved one, but for you, too. It limits time spent in the kitchen and reduces the risk of accidents.How Comfort Keepers Grand Junction can help with meal preparation: Our caregivers, providing support to seniors in Grand Junction and the surrounding CO communities, can assist with meal prep, portioning, and labeling, or even join your loved one for a fun weekly cooking session. Were there to lend a hand without taking over, always working to preserve independence.Simplify with One-Pot and One-Pan RecipesMeals that require fewer steps and less cleanup, like vegetable stir-fries, lentil stews, or chicken tray bakes, are easier to manage and safer for seniors with strength or mobility concerns.Encouraging the use of pre-chopped ingredients or adaptive kitchen tools can also reduce strain and increase comfort.How Comfort Keepers Grand Junction can help seniors create quick, nutritious meals:At Comfort Keepers Grand Junction, we provide support in the kitchen by assisting with seniors with prep, setting up easy-to-use cooking stations, and helping implement safety practices that allow seniors to enjoy cooking again. Senior nutrition is a priority when it comes to the care services we provide in Grand Junction and the surrounding CO communities. Back-Up Meals for Low-Energy DaysIt is not uncommon for seniors, and other adults, to have low-energy days. For moments like this, It helps to keep nutritious, easy-to-prepare foods on hand for when cooking isnt practicalsuch as shelf-stable soups, frozen vegetables, pre-cooked proteins, or high-quality meal replacement shakes.How Comfort Keepers Grand Junction can help support seniors on low-energy days:Our caregivers can help organize pantries, create nutritious grocery lists, and ensure your loved one has quick, balanced meals available, even better our caregiving shifts. Create a Safe, Senior-Friendly KitchenA safe kitchen is essential, especially for seniors who wish to age in place. Small upgrades can make a big difference in promoting independence and preventing accidents. Simple changes like lowering frequently used items, adding non-slip mats, improving lighting, and keeping walkways clear can greatly enhance safety. For added peace of mind, consider the support of an in-home caregiver, such as the compassionate services offered by Comfort Keepers.How Comfort Keepers Grand Junction helps to keep seniors safe: At Comfort Keepers of Grand Junction, we understand that safety is the foundation of independent living. Our caregivers are trained to assist with daily tasks while also keeping an eye out for potential hazards in the home, especially in high-risk areas like the kitchen. Make Meal Planning a Shared, Enjoyable ProcessA simple weekly meal plan takes the stress out of daily decisions and helps maintain a healthy routine. Using a basic template with rotating favorites, plus a new recipe here and there, can keep things interesting and sustainable.Here is an awesome meal planning templateHow Comfort Keepers Grand Junction keeps clients involved in meal planning: We involve our clients in their own care including meal planning, grocery prep, and cooking, making the process collaborative and joyful. For those who need more support, we can handle errands or use grocery delivery to make things even easier.Promote Healthy Eating Through ConnectionSocial connection plays a big role in nutrition. Isolation can lead to skipped meals or loss of appetite, while shared meals increase enjoyment and overall well-being. Senior care services with a focus on companionship can make a world of difference. When seniors share meals with others, engage in conversation, and participate in meal planning, eating becomes a more enjoyable and social experience. This kind of connection not only supports better nutrition but also contributes to emotional well-being and a greater sense of purpose.How Comfort Keepers Grand Junction builds social connection in the kitchen: Our caregivers not only help with meals, they offer companionship with a focus on moments of joy. Whether its sharing a meal, helping with cooking, or just chatting during dinner time, we bring warmth and connection into the home during every shift. Learn More About Comfort KeepersIf youre interested in learning more about how Comfort Keepers of Grand Junction can support your loved one, dont hesitate to reach out. Our compassionate team provides personalized in-home care tailored to your loved ones needs. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and discover how we can help your senior loved one remain comfortable and safe in their own home.
Fire safety protocols in assisted living in FloridaIn Florida, assisted living facilities (ALFs) are subject to comprehensive fire safety rules designed to protect residentsespecially those with limited mobility. Heres a clear breakdown of the key requirements: 1. Evacuation Capability AssessmentWithin 6 months of initial licensure, ALFs must have a formal evaluation of residents evacuation capabilitiescategorized as prompt, slow, or impracticalto determine appropriate safety measures Findlaw+15Florida Senate+15Cape Coral Fire Dept+15.2. Codes & StandardsAll facilities must comply with the current editions of NFPA 101 and 101A (Life Safety Code) as adopted by the State Fire Marshal under Chapter 633.206 Wikipedia+8Florida Senate+8Florida Senate+8.Sprinkler systems are mandatory; local authorities can only charge actual costs for their installation and upkeep Florida Senate+6Florida Senate+6Florida Senate+6.3. Annual Fire InspectionsMust receive yearly inspections by the local fire marshal or authority having jurisdiction, confirming compliance with life safety and fire codes Florida Health Care Association+15Florida Senate+15Florida Senate+15.4. Existing Facilities ExceptionBuildings licensed before July 1, 2016 may operate under NFPA 1994/1995 editions. However, any major Level III renovations trigger compliance with current codes and Florida Fire Prevention Code Cape Coral Fire Dept+5Florida Senate+5Florida Senate+5.5. Automatic Fire SprinklersRequired for all ALFs under Florida Building Code 903.2.8, with system type depending on resident evacuation capabilities:13D systems for facilities with 5 or unassisted evacuation up to 16.13R for facilities with assisted or slower evacuation Reddit+7Cape Coral Fire Dept+7Reddit+7.6. Emergency Management & PowerALFs must maintain a comprehensive emergency plancovering evacuation, transport, shelter, emergency power, communication, record keeping, and morecoordinated with local Emergency Management and reviewed annually Florida Senate+1Legal Information Institute+1.Backup power systems are crucial; facilities must ensure indoor temperatures stay below 81F (27C) for at least 96 hours and implement heat-mitigation procedures during emergencies Reddit.7. Smoke & Heat DetectionFacilitiesespecially those without full sprinklersmust install smoke detectors in sleeping rooms and common areas, tested weekly with batteries changed at least semi-annually Florida Health Care Association.Even in sprinklered facilities, heat detectors may be required in utility, mechanical, and electrical rooms per NFPA/Florida codes Reddit.8. Fire Drills & DocumentationRegular fire and evacuation drills must be conducted and documented.Some facilities are allowed only one overnight drill (11p.m.7a.m.), with staff required to conduct mock drills to review evacuation procedures Florida Senate.Fire logs (alarms, drills, inspections, maintenance) must be properly maintained to pass inspections. Inaccurate logs can result in citations or even facility closure .9. Doors, Exits & Fire BarriersFire doors must self-close/latch reliably.Clear access16 inches below sprinkler headsmust be maintained.Exit routes must remain unobstructed, properly lit, and signed Justia+10Reddit+10Wikipedia+10Reddit+2Florida Senate+2Florida Senate+2. Quick Reference TableRequirementTimeline/FrequencyEvacuation assessmentWithin 6 months of licenseAnnual fire inspectionEvery yearSmoke detector testingWeeklyBattery replacementAt least twice a yearFire drillsAs dictated by policyEmergency power capabilityMaintain 81F for 96 hrs What You Should DoVerify the facility uses current NFPA 101/101A codes (or legacy ones if licensed preJuly 2016 but only if no major renovations occurred).Ensure sprinkler and alarm systems are installed, functioning, tested, and inspected.Confirm regular fire drills and inspection logs are properly documented.Review the emergency power plan for adequacy in extreme weather scenarios.Maintain alarm and detector systems in resident rooms, commons, and utility areas.For full legal specifics, refer to Florida Statutes 429.41, 429.435, 633.206, NFPA codes, and Florida Building Code Section 903.2.8. It may also be wise to consult a qualified fire safety or building code professional.
Choosing the right senior living community is one of the most important decisions families and older adults can make. Whether you're exploring options for yourself or helping a loved one, visiting a community in person provides insight far beyond what a website or brochure can offer.A thoughtful, well-prepared tour helps you evaluate if a community truly feels like homeand whether it meets your physical, emotional, and social needs. At Seniors Blue Book, were here to make that process easier, more transparent, and more empowering.Heres what to know before you tourand the key questions to ask while you're there. Before the Tour: Do Your HomeworkStart by identifying the level of care that may be needed:Independent Living for active seniors seeking a maintenance-free lifestyle and social engagementAssisted Living for those who need help with daily tasks like bathing or medication managementMemory Care for individuals with Alzheimers or other forms of dementiaSkilled Nursing for seniors requiring 24/7 medical support or short-term rehabilitationUse Seniors Blue Book to search communities in your area, compare services, and read reviews before scheduling your visits. During the Tour: What to Look ForObserve:Cleanliness and overall condition of the communityHow staff interact with residents (Are they friendly and respectful?)Residents' mood and engagement in activitiesSafety features: handrails, lighting, emergency call systemsAccessibility: elevators, ramps, transportation services Top Questions to Ask During Your VisitCare & ServicesWhat types of care are available on-site if needs change?How are care plans created and updated?Is staff available 24/7? What is the nurse-to-resident ratio?Do you offer memory care or skilled nursing if it becomes necessary?Costs & ContractsWhats included in the monthly fee?Are there additional charges for medication management or assistance with daily living?What is the policy on deposits, refunds, or move-outs?Lifestyle & CommunityWhat kinds of activities are offered daily or weekly?Are meals included? Can dietary needs be accommodated?Can residents bring their own furniture or pets?Are there religious services, wellness programs, or group outings?Communication & Family InvolvementHow is information communicated to family members?Can families be involved in care planning?Are there visiting hours or family events? Downloadable Checklist: Take Notes & CompareBring a notebook or use our free Senior Living Tour Comparison Checklist to rate each community on care, amenities, location, staff friendliness, and overall feel. This helps make an objective decision later. Bonus Tip: Ask to Talk to a Current Resident or Family MemberHearing first-hand experiences from someone living in the community can provide valuable perspectiveand peace of mind. How Seniors Blue Book Can HelpAt Seniors Blue Book, we connect families with trusted, local senior living options, home health providers, elder care services, and moreall in one place. With our free directory and personalized guidance, you can save time, reduce stress, and feel confident every step of the way.Search listings online: seniorsbluebook.comGet a free book: Available at libraries, hospitals, senior centers, and more Tour with ConfidenceTouring a senior living community shouldnt be overwhelmingit should be empowering. With the right questions, a clear plan, and help from trusted resources like Seniors Blue Book, you can make a decision that supports health, happiness, and peace of mind for years to come.Know someone beginning the search for senior care? Share this guide to help them start with clarity and confidence.
Row-style homesReminiscent of historic row-style homes, the Brownstones feature a charming and unique exterior. One and two bedroom floor plans blend gracious design and inviting style for a truly distinctive interior. This vital addition to Founders Ridge reflects the same creative spirit that is evident throughout the entire community, providing you privacy, independence, and the freedom to pursue a life limited only by the number of hours in a day.View a 3D interactive floor plan of the Breidenbach or Anderson floor plans or scroll down for other floor plans options.Blinds on all windows and patio doorsBright open floor plans emphasize spacious rooms and nine foot ceilingsConvenient in-home laundry with washer and dryerFully equipped kitchen with refrigerator, stove/self-cleaning oven, dishwasher, garbage disposal and microwaveIndividually controlled heat and central air conditioningPrivate deck or patio (select apartments)Walk-in storage (most apartments)Senior ApartmentsOur senior apartments offer maintenance-free living and comfortable floor plans with the added benefits of value and convenience. Nicely appointed common areas are well-suited for group events and casual gatherings. Social, recreational and volunteer opportunities help create a sense of community. Other optional services and amenities are available for both pleasure and purpose.Alder wood cabinetry with maple finish throughoutBlinds on all windows and patio doorsBright open floor plans emphasize spacious rooms and nine foot ceilingsConvenient in-home laundry with washer and dryerFully equipped kitchen with refrigerator, stove/self-cleaning oven, dishwasher, garbage disposal and microwaveIndividually controlled heat and central air conditioningPrivate deck or patio (select apartments)Walk-in storage (most apartments)Senior Apartments IIThe Terrace II provides additional independent living apartments with desirable upgrades, such as stainless steel appliances, wood-style flooring and solid surface kitchen counter tops. As part of the main campus, residents have indoor access to all common areas, group events and casual gatherings. Social, recreational and volunteer opportunities help create a sense of community.
Live your life with a little extra support!Thoughtfully designed assisted living apartments, rooms or suites are accompanied by supportive services like housekeeping, meals, and personal care. Nicely appointed common areas are well-suited for group events and casual gatherings. Social, recreational and volunteer opportunities help create a sense of community. Other optional health care services and amenities are available.Assisted Living Details:Alder wood cabinetry with maple finish throughoutBathroom with roll-in shower and grab barBlinds on all windowsBright open floor plans emphasize spacious rooms and nine foot ceilingsIndividually controlled heat and central air conditioningRefrigerator, stove/oven and microwaveFloor plans & pricingStudiostarting at $ 4240 /month1-bedroomstarting at $ 4745 /month2-bedroomstarting at $ 6160 /monthIncluded amenities:24 hour on-site Resident Assistant staffingBilliardsBasic cable tvChoice of two meals daily served restaurant-styleCentral Air ConditioningEscort to meals + activities for first 5 daysElectricFlexible dining hoursFitness centerInitial Nursing AssessmentLibraryWeekly light housekeeping + linen changeMovie theaterTelephone serviceUrgent call systemOther conveniencesFees may applyDining services - additional optionsGarage parkingGuest dining servicesGuest suiteHandyman servicesRehabilitative servicesSalonStorage locker
Discover the difference memory care with purpose can make. Based on years of thoughtful consultation with staff, families and leaders in the field of dementia research, Presbyterian Homes & Services (PHS) offers a supportive haven where you can connect, engage and experience joy. Employees trained in the innovative Dementia Orientation Values Education (DOVE) program offer you or a loved one care, connection and choices designed to create meaningful moments.DOVE seeks to:Affirm those living with dementia as whole individuals.Celebrate the strengths of those living with dementiaUphold peoples dignity, self-esteem and independence through person-centered care.Foster compassion, flexibility and creativity by our care teams.PHS supportive and caring team of healthcare professionals are dedicated to respecting your choices and helping you maintain your individuality. The team, trained in DOVE, is better equipped to meet your individual needs by understanding disease processes. As a result, you experience the highest standard of skill and compassion which enriches lives. In addition, our memory care apartments enable you to experience a homelike atmosphere, private apartments (where available), 24-hour nursing care, three daily meals and supportive services including housekeeping, engaging activities and personal assistance.Schedule a tour today to learn more about specialized memory care.