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Moving to a worry-free Erickson Senior Living-managed continuing care retirement community (CCRC) can be the start of an easier, more fulfilling retirement.But before you tour one of our beautiful campuses, youll want to determine which living option is best for you. Should you choose independent living, which features an array of social and recreational activities that you can enjoy without additional assistance? Or would assisted living, which provides higher levels of support for a variety of needs, be more appropriate?Erickson Senior Living has managed senior communities for over 40 years, serving thousands of seniors nationwide with top-rated care and services. Our communities offer the full spectrum of careindependent living, assisted care, memory care, and skilled nursing. So no matter what the future brings, the right level of support for your situation will always be available.To help you decide what best fits your lifestyle now, read about the differences between independent living and assisted living so you can make an informed decision.Key Features and Amenities of Independent LivingFor older adults who wish to pursue an active lifestyle without the responsibilities and expenses of homeownership, independent senior living may be the right choice.Independent living residents enjoy a wealth of amenities, including multiple dining venues, communal gathering spaces, game rooms, fitness centers, and on-site health care, in addition to dozens of clubs that span a range of interests.Erickson Senior Living-managed communities take care of residence and community maintenance for you, so youll never have to rake leaves, shovel snow, or mow the lawn again. One call to the general services department, and theyll take care of any repairs needed in your home. All common areas and outdoor spaces are impeccably maintained by a professional grounds crew.Benefits of Independent LivingOur independent senior living option provides a carefree, secure, and convenient way to enjoy every aspect of your retirement.Our stunning amenities, hubs of resident activity, are ideal for building connections and friendships. You can reach everything via climate-controlled walkways, so inclement weather is never a problem. And with hundreds of social activities to choose from, theres always something fun and engaging to do.Youll also feel safe thanks to health care services located right on campus, dedicated staff who go above and beyond, and security team members who are on call 24/7 and trained in emergency response.It became clear to us that you dont just get an apartment home, says Jo Anne P., an independent living resident of Brooksby Village in Peabody, Massachusetts. You gain a whole community filled with amenities, activities, social connections, and services. We are just a short walk away from the pool, the fitness center, and the medical center.Considerations When Choosing an Independent Living CommunityNext to amenities and services, one of the most important factors to consider when exploring independent living communities is location. Do you want to be close to family? Are you ready to explore a new part of the country? Do you prefer warm weather year-round?Another key factor is cost. Ask for a detailed breakdown of the amenities and services youll receive and what youll pay each month.One of the benefits of a CCRC is access to higher levels of care, when and if theyre ever needed. This is an important consideration. Find out whether higher levels of care are available at the communities you explore. As a CCRC, Erickson Senior Living can provide appropriate care at every stage of your retirement.Finally, youll want to know whether the company managing your community has the financial resources and staff to provide the quality services you expect. As an industry leader with more than four decades of experience managing senior communities, Erickson Senior Living has a well-deserved reputation for quality and value.Linda O., a future resident of The Grandview in Bethesda, Maryland, notes, When we started looking at senior living places, we were really impressed with Erickson--the experience it has and the communities throughout the nation that it operates. They really know what theyre doing and have senior living down to a science.When you come for a tour, be sure to share all of your questions with our staff. Speak to current independent living residents, too. Youll find that people who work and live in the community can provide an invaluable insiders point of view.Financial Aspects of Independent LivingOur independent living residences come in a variety of floor plans and sizes, from one to three bedrooms. Your entrance deposit will depend on the model you choose. A percentage of the entrance deposit is also refundable should you leave the community or decide to pass it on to your heirs.There also is a Monthly Service Package that covers most of your living expenses, including your chosen meal plan, use of amenities, transportation, utilities, property taxes, maintenance, Wi-Fi, cable, phone, and others. Our one-bill, one-check approach ensures predictable, easy-to-manage expenses.Not only did Ashby Ponds make sense financially, it provided many additional benefits over living in a condo, says Mark H. of Ashby Ponds in Ashburn, Virginia. When I added up my long list of expenses and compared the price to the monthly service package, it was a great deal.Understanding Assisted LivingErickson Senior Living offers three assisted living options.Assisted living is for people who can live in their own residence but require extra assistance with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and medication management.Memory care is for those with memory loss, dementia, or Alzheimers who need additional support with daily tasks as well as specialized enrichment activities. Many Erickson Senior Living-managed communities offer dedicated memory care neighborhoods with specially trained staff who build meaningful relationships with residents.Skilled nursing provides high-level medical care from doctors, nurses, and skilled/certified professionals. Skilled nursing also can be used temporarily for rehabilitation post-surgery or injury. Nearly all communities managed by Erickson Senior Living have dedicated skilled nursing neighborhoods.Key Features and Amenities of Assisted LivingOur assisted living options provide a worry-free lifestyle, social engagement, and use of every amenity on campus. Other features include personalized care from compassionate staff, convenient access to regular medical services, housekeeping, and programs tailored to each residents needs and abilities.Benefits of Assisted LivingFor many seniors and their loved ones, assisted living provides real peace of mind. Residents are secure and professionally cared for, and their families gain freedom from daily caregiving responsibilities. In fact, assisted living residents can specify the daily tasks theyd like help with, which can greatly enhance their well-being.Assisted living residents also have ample opportunities for social and personal enrichment through thoughtfully planned activities.Residents of memory care and skilled nursing receive the medical services and support they need to optimize their quality of life. Memory care staff members lead enrichment activities in a nurturing environment; skilled nursing is staffed by physicians, nurses, and licensed/certified professionals who specialize in medical issues related to aging.Comparing Independent Living and Assisted LivingIn summary, heres a quick comparison between independent living and assisted living.Independent living is for seniors who want a vibrant, active lifestyle and are looking to participate in a variety of hobbies, games, activities, and social engagements. Costs associated with this living option will depend on the size and style of residence you choose. Maintenance, access to amenities, and most expenses are covered by one predictable monthly fee.Assisted living encompasses three types of living options: assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing. Residents receive personalized support as well as the opportunity to participate in engaging activities. Because of the increased level of care, you can expect to pay more than you would for independent living.Making an Informed ChoiceAs you contemplate your choice between independent and assisted living, keep these main points in mind:Independent living is ideal for relatively active seniors who can complete daily tasks on their own. Youll live in a maintenance-free residence and have access to amenities, activities, dining venues, fitness programs, resident-run clubs, and much more. If your needs change over time, Erickson Senior Livings assisted living options are available to you right on campus.Assisted living offers a full continuum of care. You can choose from assisted living, which helps with tasks of daily living; memory care, which provides specialized care and enrichment for those with memory loss, dementia, or Alzheimers; and skilled nursing care, for those who need more intensive medical care on a daily basis.Choosing between independent and assisted living is an important decision. At Erickson Senior Living, our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way. If youd like to learn more about our lifestyle and care options, request a brochure today. Or, find a community near you to speak with a knowledgeable team member about whats best for you or a loved one.
Ken and Marilyn Anderson last year said goodbye to some neighbors who were moving from Del Webb, their 55-plus community, to a continuing care retirement community (CCRC). After seeing many of their friends make a similar move, they began to consider whether they should too.As chair of Neighbors Helping Neighbors, a community volunteer organization that provides residents with resources related to next steps in their lives, Ken was already familiar with the CCRC landscape. Emerson Lakes, an Erickson Senior Living community under construction in Lakewood Ranch, Fla., caught the couple's eye. So, the Andersons met with Mike Fletcher, sales counselor at Emerson Lakes, who helped further educate them about CCRCs. They came in looking to explore their options and left as members of the community's Priority List, which holds their place in line for their choice of an apartment home. Home sweet homeOriginally, Ken and Marilyn considered moving closer to one of their children. Their daughter lives in Dallas, Tex., and their son is located in Charlotte, N.C."We could relocate to be near them, but we decided we want to stay right here because we love Florida," Ken explains. "We love our church, and we can stay in the same social network. At Emerson Lakes, we will be just a few miles from our friends--and we will also make new friends.""Plus," adds Marilyn, "Emerson Lakes will truly benefit from lessons learned at other Erickson Senior Living communities. They have a history of building cultures that really bring people together and allow relationships to gel. It is right for Ken and me, at this point in our lives."Amenities and moreSince Del Webb provides an assortment of on-site amenities, Ken and Marilyn say that some neighbors asked why they wanted to move. But the Andersons note that they'll be able to enjoy an array of amenities and a maintenance- and worry-free lifestyle. "We are opting for Emerson Lakes because it allows us to age in place," Ken says. "It takes away the requirement of caring for our property. Even though the homeowners' association where we live takes care of our lawn, I still invest many hours each week. Will I be able to do that several years from now? Will I want to do that versus doing other things?"He continues, "I'd rather devote my time giving back to the community while investing more time with our children and grandchildren when they come to visit."Like the Andersons, hundreds of Priority List members are ready to wave goodbye to house maintenance and say hello to schedules filled with friends and fun. The campus will be beautifully landscaped by the grounds team, and regular maintenance needs will be handled by the community's General Services department. When residents need appliances repaired or a light bulb replaced, they simply make a phone call. Without the hassle of maintenance, Ken and Marilyn will have more free time to enjoy activities--including pickleball, card games, and social groups. They will also have access to a state-of-the-art fitness center with exercise classes, an outdoor pool, game room, and a creative arts studio. Forming friendshipsKen, an avid golfer, anticipates starting a golf club and becoming involved in the Resident Advisory Council, which offers input and feedback on issues that affect residents. And as active people who played many sports in their lifetimes, the couple can see themselves playing bocce, biking, exercising, taking walks, and returning to a former pastime--table tennis. As a retired counseling psychologist, Ken recognizes the value of staying active and making connections, especially as people age. "We truly desire to be in an environment that is lively, active, and engaged," he says. Lucky for them, they don't have to wait to move in to make new friends. Thanks to Emerson Lakes' exclusive social events for Priority List members, Ken and Marilyn have already formed relationships with future neighbors. "The sales team at Emerson Lakes is building momentum with a sense of anticipation and excitement," Marilyn says. "Even though we have a few years before we move, we're pleased to be exploring our next step with the people who may be our new neighbors and friends."'Firsthand experience'If you're interested in getting the inside scoop on Emerson Lakes or reserving an apartment home, Fletcher recommends joining the Priority List. "We only require a refundable $1,000 deposit," says Fletcher. "It's a zero-risk way to learn more about all that Emerson Lakes has to offer!"He continues, "Members have also participated in a charter bus tour to Siena Lakes, our sister property in Naples, Fla., where they met staff and residents, toured an apartment home, and even dined in on-campus restaurants. That kind of firsthand experience is unbeatable."To learn more about affordable, independent senior living at Emerson Lakes, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.
As the planning and moving consultant at Fox Run, an Erickson Senior Living community in Novi, Mich., I've worked with retirees at all different stages--those exploring their senior living options, those who just reserved their new home, and those who've already begun planning for their future move. Regardless of what stage you're in, it's never too early to start thinking about downsizing. Many prospective residents have lived in their houses for years--or even decades. Once they start sifting through boxes, they quickly realize they've accumulated much more than they originally thought. As a result, the most common question I hear is, "Where do I begin?" Expert guidanceMy first suggestion is to schedule a meeting with the planning and moving consultant at your local Erickson Senior Living community. One of my responsibilities is to help you sort through your belongings and find a new home for items you no longer need.This meeting can take place in your current house, or, if you don't feel ready for that just yet, we can schedule a phone conversation or video chat. It's a great opportunity for us to get to know you while explaining our role and what support we can offer. One way I offer support is by providing recommendations on a wide variety of resources, from senior move management companies to estate sale services and charitable organizations, all designed to help with downsizing. Plus, all of these resources are preferred vendors, which means they have been vetted for quality customer service. Start smallSome people want to handle the downsizing process themselves, using it as an opportunity to reflect on the memories associated with keepsakes and photos. If you're one of these people, I usually offer this piece of advice: Don't put off decluttering. The sooner you start, the easier it will be! Begin by allotting some time on your calendar to begin your first small downsizing project. Rather than thinking about the downsizing process as a whole, view it as a list of manageable tasks. As you accomplish each task, you'll gain a feeling of accomplishment and establish momentum. I often suggest that people start with a small space, such as a linen closet, kitchen cabinet, junk drawer, or bookshelf.As you begin looking at items, it's helpful to organize them into three categories--keep, throw away, and donate. If you are uncertain as to which category an item should go in, ask yourself questions such as:"Do I use this item now?" If your answer is yes, keep it."Is it broken?" If the answer is yes, throw it away."Can someone else benefit from having this?" If your answer is yes, donate it to a family member or a charitable organization.If having time blocked on your calendar for your first project was helpful, consider creating a downsizing schedule by allotting time in a cadence that feels right for you. Maybe every other week is a good timeframe for you!It can also be helpful to enlist a friend or family member to assist you with your efforts. Not only will they keep you on schedule, they will help you make decisions and make the process much more enjoyable.Here to helpRegardless of which way you'd like to downsize, I'm here to help! I can offer guidance that is tailored to your preferences. Everyone and every house is unique, which is why creating a personalized plan can make all the difference in helping you start and stick with a program. And, by starting the process early, you'll have all the time you need to adequately downsize without feeling rushed!Find an Erickson Senior Living community near you to learn more about the planning and moving resources available.
Platinum Benefit Services, Inc. is committed to helping families gain maximum government benefits for Long Term Care and providing both compassion and application expertise. Since 1996, we have helped more than 10,000 families qualify for Medicaid while strategically protecting an estimated $1,000,000,000 in assets in conjunction with appropriate legal counsel.Platinum works diligently to process all types of long-term care applications with a specialization in complex nursing home applications for families who employ high end asset protection strategies. Platinum Benefit Services, Inc. are experts in the field of nursing home Medicaid application processing. Phone : 813-951-8019Email : a.diaz@platben.comTiming : Monday - Friday: 8 am EST - 5 pm ESTAbout MeAshley Diaz is a dedicated Marketing Liaison who joined the Platinum Team back in 2021. In her role, she specializes in assisting seniors navigate the complex Long-Term Care Medicaid Process. With a formal and professional approach, Ashley strives to provide comprehensive guidance and support to seniors and their families during this critical phase of their lives. Her extensive knowledge of Medicaid regulations and requirements allows me to effectively communicate and educate seniors about the eligibility criteria and necessary documentation. By fostering strong relationships with seniors, their families, and healthcare professionals, Ashley is able to streamline the process. With the commitment to excellence and a compassionate approach, she prides herself in being dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of seniors in need.
Platinum Benefit Services, Inc. is committed to helping families gain maximum government benefits for Long Term Care and providing both compassion and application expertise. Since 1996, we have helped more than 10,000 families qualify for Medicaid while strategically protecting an estimated $1,000,000,000 in assets in conjunction with appropriate legal counsel.Platinum works diligently to process all types of long-term care applications with a specialization in complex nursing home applications for families who employ high end asset protection strategies. Platinum Benefit Services, Inc. are experts in the field of nursing home Medicaid application processing. Phone : 813-951-8019Email : a.diaz@platben.comTiming : Monday - Friday: 8 am EST - 5 pm ESTAbout MeAshley Diaz is a dedicated Marketing Liaison who joined the Platinum Team back in 2021. In her role, she specializes in assisting seniors navigate the complex Long-Term Care Medicaid Process. With a formal and professional approach, Ashley strives to provide comprehensive guidance and support to seniors and their families during this critical phase of their lives. Her extensive knowledge of Medicaid regulations and requirements allows me to effectively communicate and educate seniors about the eligibility criteria and necessary documentation. By fostering strong relationships with seniors, their families, and healthcare professionals, Ashley is able to streamline the process. With the commitment to excellence and a compassionate approach, she prides herself in being dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of seniors in need.
Platinum Benefit Services, Inc. is committed to helping families gain maximum government benefits for Long Term Care and providing both compassion and application expertise. Since 1996, we have helped more than 10,000 families qualify for Medicaid while strategically protecting an estimated $1,000,000,000 in assets in conjunction with appropriate legal counsel.Platinum works diligently to process all types of long-term care applications with a specialization in complex nursing home applications for families who employ high end asset protection strategies. Platinum Benefit Services, Inc. are experts in the field of nursing home Medicaid application processing. Phone : 813-951-8019Email : a.diaz@platben.comTiming : Monday - Friday: 8 am EST - 5 pm ESTAbout MeAshley Diaz is a dedicated Marketing Liaison who joined the Platinum Team back in 2021. In her role, she specializes in assisting seniors navigate the complex Long-Term Care Medicaid Process. With a formal and professional approach, Ashley strives to provide comprehensive guidance and support to seniors and their families during this critical phase of their lives. Her extensive knowledge of Medicaid regulations and requirements allows me to effectively communicate and educate seniors about the eligibility criteria and necessary documentation. By fostering strong relationships with seniors, their families, and healthcare professionals, Ashley is able to streamline the process. With the commitment to excellence and a compassionate approach, she prides herself in being dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of seniors in need.