Benefits of Living in An Active Adult Community

Affordable Senior and Family Living at Menorah PlazaMenorah Plaza is more than just a residenceits a vibrant community where independent seniors can enjoy an active and fulfilling lifestyle. Nestled on two peaceful acres near Saint Louis Park City Hall, Menorah Plaza combines affordability with top-notch amenities, ensuring seniors and their families have access to a welcoming and enriching environment.A Focus on Independence and VitalityAt Menorah Plaza, we prioritize fostering independence while providing essential support tailored to our residents' needs. Our HUD-supported community boasts 154 thoughtfully designed apartments, including 12 specialized memory care unitsa rare and invaluable feature in affordable senior housing. Through private payment plans or government programs like Elderly Waiver (EW) and Community Alternatives for Disabled Individuals (CADI), eligible residents can access the care they need to thrive.Comfortable Living Spaces and Community AmenitiesMenorah Plaza features one- and two-bedroom apartments designed with comfort and safety in mind. Controlled entry systems provide peace of mind, while community spaces encourage socialization and relaxation.Key amenities include: A welcoming community room with a television and meeting area Outdoor patio and walking paths for leisurely strolls Exercise classes offered twice weekly Puzzles and games to stimulate cognitive activity An on-site Mini-Store for daily essentials A dining program offering delicious meals Convenient access to public transportation Pet-friendly policies for small pets Supportive Health Care ServicesMenorah Plaza offers 40 ADA-compliant apartments designed for residents needing additional healthcare support. Residents can access Sholoms Home Healthcare service package, which includes: Assistance from Home Health Aides and Nurse Coordinators Light housekeeping support Comprehensive care available 24/7 These services ensure residents can maintain their independence while receiving the care and attention they need to stay healthy and active.Engaging Activities and Social OpportunitiesFrom planned social events to outdoor activities, Menorah Plaza promotes a sense of community and engagement. Residents can participate in group activities, exercise classes, or simply enjoy the serene walking paths and patio spaces.Experience the Joy of Senior LivingMenorah Plaza is committed to redefining senior living by offering a vibrant, supportive community where independence and connections flourish. With recently updated apartments, bilingual staff, and a variety of amenities, residents can enjoy comfort, convenience, and companionship.Contact Menorah Plaza Today!Join our community and experience senior living at its best. Schedule a visit or get in touch with us for more information.Address: 4925 Minnetonka Blvd, St. Louis Park, MN 55416Phone: (952) 653-3680 Email: jfeldman@thecapitalrealty.comHours: Monday Friday: 9 AM 5 PM Saturday & Sunday: Closed

As your parents reach retirement and prepare for an exciting new chapter, its important to think long-term. One of the biggest choices theyll make is in regards to their living situation. Are they planning to stay at home even if their care needs change? Do they have a plan for how they will pay for in-home care and maintain their home? Or have they considered moving to a senior living community to enjoy the stability and security such a choice offers?Though this is a question that must be addressed, the topic can be difficult to broach. If youre wondering how to get the conversation started with your parents, read on for helpful tips and essential questions to ask.How to Prepare for the ConversationThe way you approach discussing independent living communities with your parents can contribute to how receptive they are to the idea. Here are a few strategies to keep in mind: Do your homework. As Alexander Graham Bell famously said, Preparation is the key to success. Research in advance and know the details about the differences between independent living and assisted living communities, the benefits they offer, overall costs and other critical details. Pick the right time. A big life decision isnt something to bring up out of the blue. Set aside specific time in a comfortable, relaxed environment so the conversation doesnt feel like an ambush. Be an active listener. While you might have your own ideas about the best options, carefully listen to your parents thoughts and feelings. Understanding where theyre coming from will make things more productive. Dont pressure them. High-pressure tactics are a sure way to put your parents on the defensive. Ultimately this decision is about whats best for them and their long-term needs. Practice patience. Dont go into the conversation expecting an immediate decision. Most of the time it requires several discussions and some serious reflection. Be patient and let them come to a conclusion in their own time. 6 Questions to Ask Your Parents About Independent LivingKnowing the right questions to ask can help your parents think about the possibilities of moving to an independent living community and their must-have features. Try these six questions to help guide the conversation.1. Do you ever feel lonely at home?According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one-fourth of adults 65 and older are considered socially isolated. In fact, loneliness in older adults can lead to increased health risks like heart disease and stroke. If loneliness is a factor for your parents, an independent living community can provide opportunities to build meaningful friendships later in life with others who share the same interests.2. Do you feel safe at home?Safety is an important consideration with age. Whether thats concerns about slipping and falling while doing home maintenance or crime in the neighborhood, an independent living community offers solutions. Independent living communities often include maintenance and landscaping and there are security protocols in place.3. Do you have a plan if you need a higher level of care?Studies show that 70% of older adults will need a high level of long-term support and services. Things like family history and current health can be strong indicators to help plan for future needs. If access to care is a high priority, its worth looking at Life Care options. This type of senior living community guarantees access to higher levels of health services within that community, no matter how needs change over time.4. What would be most helpful to get assistance with?Maintaining a large home can be a lot of work on your own. For many older adults, the private residences offered by independent living communities are much more manageable. Instead of spending time cleaning and fixing issues, your parents can spend that time pursuing their passions.  5. Would finances be easier with a monthly bill for everything?Another advantage of independent living communities is they consolidate regular expenses into one predictable monthly fee. From select meals at restaurant-style dining venues, access to the fitness center and on-site social programs, most services and amenities are included in their monthly fee. 6. How can I help?Finding the ideal living situation for your parents is the priority. After sorting through their needs and understanding their challenges, remind them youre a resource they can rely on. Whether youre helping to schedule visits or just acting as a sounding board, let them know your desire is to find whats best for their long-term goals.Explore Independent Living Options at Friendship Village of South HillsAt Friendship Village of South Hills, our senior independent living community is dedicated to helping residents get the most out of each day. With a maintenance-free lifestyle and helpful services, every individual can spend their time in the ways they find most meaningful.If youd like to learn more about what makes our Pittsburgh-area community so special, please dont hesitate to reach out and contact us today.

As you consider where life will take you next, you may be contemplating a move to an independent living community in Pennsylvaniaand for good reason! This state is celebrated for its retiree-friendly policies, including no state tax on social security and other retirement incomes such as 401(k)s and IRAs, making it an ideal location for senior independent living.Does this move make sense for you or your loved one? Heres what you need to know to feel confident about your decision.Benefits of Living in PennsylvaniaPennsylvania is a top destination for retirees looking for independent living combined with significant financial advantages. The states commitment to providing a retirement-friendly experience is evident through its favorable Pennsylvania retirement taxes and the many senior living options.Pennsylvania Cost of LivingOverall, the cost of living in Pennsylvania aligns closely with the national average, though expenses can vary. Urban centers like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh may cost more than suburban areas like Upper St. Clair or the picturesque rural regions. These variations make Pennsylvania a flexible choice for retirement, catering to different lifestyles and budgets.Is Pennsylvania Retirement Friendly?Absolutely! Pennsylvanias approach to retirement is designed to maximize comfort and security, making it an excellent choice for anyone considering independent living. The states policies make it easier for seniors to enjoy their retirement years with peace of mind and financial stability.When Is Independent Living Right for You?The timing of moving to independent living is different for everyone. However, many seniors regret not moving into their community sooner. While there may be some apprehension in the face of such a big life change, moving to a senior living community as soon as possible can be beneficial for many reasons. As our care needs evolve, relocating to a Life Care community that provides comprehensive on-site health servicesincluding memory care, skilled nursing, and assisted livingcan offer enduring security and comfort. Choosing this type of community means you wont have to move again if your needs change, allowing you the comfort and familiarity of living in the same community.The Cost of Independent Living in PennsylvaniaCosts for independent living in Pennsylvania can vary significantly by community type and the services, amenities, and care provided. Some communities require a one-time entrance fee alongside monthly payments to secure priority access to comprehensive care options in the future. When evaluating different communities, consider the quality of accommodations, the range of services offered, and the levels of care available, all of which are crucial for getting the most from your long-term investment. Its also important to factor in the rising healthcare costs, which can impact overall expenses.In addition to care and accommodations, another significant benefit of independent living is the consolidation of expenses. Most communities bundle care, specific dining options, amenities, and other services into a single monthly payment, simplifying financial management and reducing the burden of handling multiple bills.Costs and FeesThere are over 700 retirement communities in Pennsylvania to choose from. These communities range from small rental options to continuing care retirement communities and senior living buy-in options. Each community will have its own fee and payment structures. Some may require an upfront entrance fee in addition to monthly fees. Monthly fees often include utilities, maintenance and access to on-site amenities and services. Choosing the Best Independent Living Community in PennsylvaniaMoving to a senior living community is a big step and may feel overwhelming, especially if youve lived in a large family home for a while. However, moving to a new community opens up a world of possibilities. Community life is all about supporting your independence, not limiting it.  LocationChoosing the right independent living community means finding a place that aligns with your lifestyle and personal needs. When exploring independent living options in Pennsylvania, consider how each communitys location will impact your daily life.Is it important for you to be close to family and friends? Staying nearby can make it easier to maintain those vital connections and receive support when needed. Alternatively, consider how the location might influence your access to city amenities. Will you miss the vibrancy and variety of events and activities available in a big city if you opt for a quieter suburban setting?Community ServicesEach communitys services and amenities also play a crucial role in ensuring your comfort and satisfaction. Look for communities that not only meet your current needs but are also capable of adapting to your future needs. This can help support a seamless transition through different phases of retirement.Having a checklist of questions and things to consider can also be helpful as you tour different communities. This pre-planning can help you feel more confident and comfortable as you determine the best fit for your lifestyle.Why Choose Friendship Village of South Hills?At Friendship Village of South Hills, upscale amenities and expert care come together to enhance your lifestyle. Enjoy personalized health and wellness services, diverse entertainment options, and essential services like housekeeping and maintenance. The result? A carefree living environment that lets you live fully each and every day.Our supportive community offers numerous social events and activities to build connections and help combat loneliness among seniors, but dont just take our word for it. We invite you to contact us today to schedule a visit to experience Friendship Village of South Hills for yourself. Were looking forward to meeting you and answering any questions you may have.