What Seniors Should Know About Independent Living in Pennsylvania

Author

Friendship Village of South Hills

For more information about the author, click to view their website: https://www.friendshipvillagepa.com/

Posted on

Nov 04, 2024

Book/Edition

Pennsylvania - Greater Pittsburgh Area

As you consider where life will take you next, you may be contemplating a move to an independent living community in Pennsylvania—and 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? Here’s what you need to know to feel confident about your decision.

Benefits of Living in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is a top destination for retirees looking for independent living combined with significant financial advantages. The state’s commitment to providing a retirement-friendly experience is evident through its favorable Pennsylvania retirement taxes and the many senior living options.

Pennsylvania Cost of Living

Overall, 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! Pennsylvania’s approach to retirement is designed to maximize comfort and security, making it an excellent choice for anyone considering independent living. The state’s 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 services—including memory care, skilled nursing, and assisted living—can offer enduring security and comfort. Choosing this type of community means you won’t 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 Pennsylvania

Costs 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. It’s 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 Fees

There 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 Pennsylvania

Moving to a senior living community is a big step and may feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve 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.  

Location

Choosing 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 community’s 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 Services

Each community’s 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 don’t 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. We’re looking forward to meeting you and answering any questions you may have.

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Pennsylvanias Personal Care Assistance (PCA) Program: A Guide to Paid Family Caregiving

Providing care for a loved one is a profound commitment, and in Pennsylvania, various programs exist to support family caregivers in this vital role. While Personal Care Assistance (PCA) broadly refers to services that help individuals with daily living activities, its important to understand that paid family caregiving in Pennsylvania primarily operates through specific Medicaid waivers. These initiatives aim to support the invaluable work of caregivers while allowing loved ones to remain in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes or the homes of family members.Understanding Personal Care Assistance (PCA) in PennsylvaniaIn Pennsylvania, Personal Care Assistance (PCA) refers to the services that help individuals with daily living activities and household tasks, enabling them to live independently. Its crucial to differentiate this from Personal Care Homes (PCH), which are residential facilities that provide housing, meals, supervision, and assistance, but typically do not offer third-party reimbursement for family caregivers providing care within them.Instead, paid family caregiving for PCA services in Pennsylvania primarily operates through various Medicaid waivers, also known as Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers. These waivers are designed to provide direct assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and household services for older adults or individuals with disabilities who live in their own homes or the homes of loved ones. The services provided under these waivers are what constitute Personal Care Assistance in the context of paid family caregiving.Key Pennsylvania Medicaid Waivers for PCAPennsylvania offers several Medicaid waivers that facilitate paid family caregiving for Personal Care Assistance, each with specific eligibility criteria and rules regarding family members.1. Community HealthChoices (CHC) Waiver: Getting Paid to Care for Loved OnesThe Community HealthChoices (CHC) waiver is Pennsylvanias most common Medicaid managed care program that facilitates paid family caregiving for PCA. It is designed for individuals aged 21 or older who are eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare and require a nursing facility level of care. This program consolidates several former waivers into a single, comprehensive system and is administered by private healthcare insurance companies contracted by the state.Recipient Eligibility for CHC: To qualify for the CHC program, the individual needing care must meet several criteria: Age: The recipient must be 21 years of age or older. Dual Eligibility: They must be eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare. Functional Eligibility: A physician must certify that the individual has a condition requiring long-term services and supports, specifically an inability to perform essential Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as bathing, toileting, or transferring. A trained assessor will also conduct a functional eligibility determination to confirm the level of care needed. Financial Eligibility: The individual must meet specific income and/or asset requirements, determined by the local County Assistance Office (CAO). For example, in 2023, the income limit to qualify for the Pennsylvania Medicaid waiver program under CHC was $2,742 per month. Caregiver Eligibility (Who Can Be Paid, Spousal/Guardian Restrictions): Pennsylvanias Medicaid waivers generally permit family members, such as adult children, siblings, and even friends, to be compensated for providing care. However, under the CHC waiver, spouses (husband or wife) are typically not eligible to be paid caregivers. Similarly, individuals holding Power of Attorney (POA) for the care recipient or legally responsible guardians (such as parents caring for children under 18) are also generally excluded from paid caregiver roles under this program.Application Process: The process involves contacting the Pennsylvania Independent Enrollment Broker (IEB) at 1-877-550-4227, applying on the COMPASS website, and submitting necessary documentation, including physician certification and financial information. Once approved, the care recipient can select a state-licensed home care agency that employs family members, such as Avondale Care Group.Services Covered & How Agencies Facilitate Payments: The CHC waiver covers a range of personal care and home care services. This includes direct assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) like bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and medication management, as well as various household services. Family caregivers are hired as regular employees of the licensed home care agency, which handles all administrative tasks, including payroll and compliance.Payment Rates & Benefits for Family Caregivers: The compensation for family caregivers through Medicaid waiver programs in Pennsylvania typically ranges between $10 and $15 per hour. The number of hours approved depends on the care recipients health and needs, with a maximum of 35 hours of care per week often allowed. The maximum weekly pay rate for Pennsylvania is up to $700 per week, which aligns with or exceeds these hourly rates, potentially including overtime or other factors. Many agencies also offer additional benefits that significantly enhance the overall compensation package for family caregivers. These can include overtime pay, weekly pay, free Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) training for eligible caregivers, holiday pay (often 1.5 times the regular rate for specified holidays), 401k plans with company matching, company-sponsored healthcare insurance (with substantial premium coverage), flexible schedules, and paid time off.2. OBRA WaiverThe OBRA Waiver is designed to support individuals aged 18-59 who have a severe developmental physical disability and require an Intermediate Care Facility/Other Related Conditions (ICF/ORC) level of care. This program helps these individuals live as independently as possible within their communities by providing assistance with activities of daily living (PCA services).Family Member/Spouse Eligibility: Similar to the CHC waiver, the OBRA waiver excludes spouses or legal guardians from being paid caregivers.Payment Rates: Compensation for caregivers under the OBRA waiver varies by geographic area, typically ranging from $13 to $15 per hour. The maximum weekly pay rate for Pennsylvania is up to $700 per week.Application: The application process also begins by contacting the Independent Enrollment Broker (IEB) at 1-877-550-4227. 3. Consolidated WaiverThe Consolidated Waiver provides support and services to a broader population, including individuals of all ages with an intellectual disability (ID) or autism, as well as children under 22 with a developmental disability due to a medically complex condition. Recipients must be recommended for an intermediate care facility (ICF) level of care based on a medical evaluation.Family Member/Spouse Eligibility: A significant difference with the Consolidated Waiver is that it explicitly allows a friend or family member, including a spouse or legal guardian, to receive payment for care provided.Payment Rates: The average pay for Pennsylvania caregivers under the Consolidated Waiver typically falls between $11 and $14.50 per hour. The maximum weekly pay rate for Pennsylvania is up to $700 per week.Application: To apply for the Consolidated Waiver, individuals should contact the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) customer line at 1-888-565-9435. Important Considerations: Medicaid Estate Recovery Program (MERP)While Pennsylvanias Medicaid programs offer crucial financial relief for family caregivers, it is essential for families to understand the long-term financial implications. The Medicaid Estate Recovery Program (MERP) is a federal requirement for all state Medicaid programs to seek repayment for long-term care costs after a recipient passes away. This recovery typically applies to individuals aged 55 and older who received Medicaid long-term care services, including those provided through Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers. Assets subject to recovery can include the deceased recipients primary home, even if it was exempt during their lifetime while receiving benefits. The states claim is generally delayed if there is a surviving spouse, a child under 21, or a child of any age who is blind or permanently disabled. Families may also be able to apply for undue hardship waivers in certain circumstances. Given these potential impacts on family inheritance and assets, it is highly advisable for families to consult with an elder law attorney or financial advisor for personalized guidance on MERP and comprehensive estate planning.  

Understanding ADLs and IADLs: Keys to Pennsylvanias Medicaid HCBS Programs

Pennsylvania offers Medicaid waiver programs under the Community HealthChoices (CHC) umbrella and the Pennsylvania Department of Aging (PDA) Waiver (often referred to as the PA Council on Aging Waiver). These programs help older adults and individuals with physical disabilities remain in their homes or community settings instead of entering nursing facilities. CHC and the PDA Waiver provide long-term services and supports (LTSS) based on assessed functional needs, emphasizing assistance with ADLs and IADLs. Covered services may include personal care assistance, adult day services, home-delivered meals, transportation, home modifications, assistive technology, and respite care for family caregivers. In addition, Pennsylvanias CHC Waiver offers Participant-Directed Services that allow participants to hire and manage their own caregivers, including family members. To qualify, applicants must be Medicaid-eligible, at least 60 years old (for PDA Waiver) or 21+ (for CHC), and require a nursing facility level of care as determined through a standardized functional assessment of ADLs/IADLs. In this article, we explain what Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) are and how needing help with these tasks is central to qualifying for Pennsylvanias Medicaid waivers like CHC and the PDA Waiver.What Are ADLs (Activities of Daily Living)?Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) are fundamental self-care tasks that a person must perform daily to maintain independence. Difficulty with ADLs often signals a need for supportive services. Core ADLs include: Mobility (Ambulating/Transferring): Safely walking, getting up from a chair, or transferring from a bed to a wheelchair. Dressing: Selecting and putting on appropriate clothing (including handling fasteners) without assistance. Eating: Feeding oneselfusing utensils to get food from a plate to the mouth and consuming it. Personal Hygiene: Bathing or showering and performing grooming activities like shaving, brushing teeth, and combing hair on ones own. Toileting (Continence): Independently using the toiletgetting to the toilet, transferring on and off, and cleaning oneself afterward. When someone can no longer perform several ADLs without help, it indicates that ongoing care or support is likely needed.What Are IADLs (Instrumental Activities of Daily Living)?Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) are more complex tasks that allow a person to live independently in the community. While not necessarily performed daily, they are essential for managing ones household and life. Key IADLs include: Shopping for Essentials: The ability to shop for groceries, pick up prescriptions, or purchase clothing and other necessities. Meal Preparation: Planning and cooking mealsgathering ingredients and safely using kitchen appliances. Housekeeping: Keeping the home clean and livable tasks like cleaning, laundry, and taking out the trash. Money Management: Handling finances, such as paying bills on time, managing bank accounts, and budgeting. Transportation: Getting around or arranging transportationdriving oneself or using public transit or rides to run errands and attend appointments. Medication Management: Managing and taking medications properly remembering to take the correct medicines at scheduled times and refilling prescriptions. Communication: Using the phone or computer to communicatelooking up phone numbers, making calls, sending emails, and staying in touch with others. Trouble with IADLs is often one of the first signs that someone needs more support, even if basic ADLs are unaffected.Why ADLs and IADLs Matter for Medicaid Waiver EligibilityIn Pennsylvania, needing help with ADLs and IADLs is a central eligibility criterion for the CHC and PDA Waiver programs. These waivers serve individuals who would otherwise qualify for nursing facility care but prefer to remain in their own homes or community settings. Eligibility is determined through both financial and functional assessments. The functional assessment evaluates whether an individual requires hands-on assistance with ADLs and/or significant help with IADLs, thereby meeting a nursing facility level of care. Pennsylvania uses standardized toolsoften the Pennsylvania LongTerm Care Assessment System (PaLTAS) or the Minimum Data SetHome Care (MDSHC)to score independence in ADLs and IADLs.During the functional evaluation, an assessor reviews abilities such as transferring from bed to chair, walking safely, eating, toileting, meal preparation, housekeeping, medication management, and managing money. Cognitive issuessuch as memory problems due to dementiaare also considered since they impact daily functioning. If an individual cannot perform multiple ADLs without assistance or has significant deficits in IADLs, they are likely to meet the level-of-care requirement and become eligible for waiver services.Community HealthChoices (CHC) WaiverCommunity HealthChoices (CHC) is Pennsylvanias comprehensive HCBS waiver program for individuals aged 21 and older who require a nursing facility level of care. Administered by the Office of Long-Term Living (OLTL), CHC is a managed care program that combines physical health, long-term services and supports, and pharmacy benefits under a single plan (with behavioral health carved out). To qualify for CHC: Be age 21 or older. Meet Medicaid financial eligibility guidelines. Require a nursing facility level of care (confirmed through functional assessment). Live in a setting that meets HCBS requirements (e.g., home, apartment, assisted living). Be a Pennsylvania resident. Once enrolled, participants receive a comprehensive package of services tailored to their needs. Covered services may include personal assistance, home-delivered meals, adult day services, behavioral support, professional nursing, home modifications, assistive technology, transportation, and respite care. CHC also offers Participant-Directed Services, allowing participants to recruit, hire, train, and supervise their own caregiversoften family membersto assist with ADLs (bathing, dressing, toileting) and IADLs (meal preparation, medication reminders).PDA Waiver (Council on Aging Waiver)The Pennsylvania Department of Aging (PDA) Waiver, also called the Council on Aging Waiver, serves seniors aged 60 and over who require nursing facility level of care but choose to remain at home or in other community-based settings like domiciliary care homes. To qualify: Be age 60 or older. Meet Medicaid financial eligibility requirements. Be assessed as requiring nursing facility level of care (through the functional assessment). Live in a qualifying community setting. Covered services under the PDA Waiver may include personal care assistance, home-delivered meals, homemaker services, personal emergency response systems, respite care, adult day services, minor home modifications, and transportation. Like CHC, the PDA Waiver emphasizes managing ADL and IADL needs to keep participants safely in their homes.Participant-Directed ServicesBoth CHC and the PDA Waiver offer Participant-Directed Services, which empower participants to choose and manage their own caregivers, including family members, friends, or neighbors. Under this model, participants develop a service plan with guidance from a care coordinator, set schedules, and handle payroll tasks. This flexibility helps ensure that personal care and IADL support align with participants preferences and routines.Signs That Your Loved One May QualifyBelow are practical indicators that someone may be eligible for Pennsylvanias CHC or PDA Waiver due to difficulty with ADLs and IADLs: Trouble with Personal Care: Skipping showers, unkempt hair, or wearing dirty clothes may indicate difficulties with bathing and dressing (ADLs). Malnutrition or Weight Loss: An empty fridge or significant weight loss suggests issues with meal prep or feeding oneself (ADLs/IADLs). Mobility Decline and Falls: Struggling to walk without assistance, needing help to stand, or experiencing frequent falls signals reduced mobility (ADL: transferring/ambulating). Medication Errors and Memory Problems: Missing doses, mixing up pills, or forgetting appointments point to challenges with medication management and scheduling (IADLs). Household Neglect: Piles of mail, unpaid bills, or a cluttered home reflect trouble with housekeeping and money management (IADLs). A combination of needing help with several ADLslike bathing and toiletingand difficulties with IADLssuch as meal prep and housekeepingstrongly indicates a nursing facility level of care. Document these challenges for the functional assessment to demonstrate eligibility.Were Here to Help: Next Steps and Contact InformationNavigating Pennsylvanias Medicaid waiver programs can be complex, but you dont have to go it alone. At Passion to Care, we specialize in guiding Pennsylvania families through the CHC and PDA Waiver application processesfrom the initial functional assessment of ADLs and IADLs to completing paperwork and coordinating services once approved. If you notice your loved one struggling with daily tasks or if a professional has recommended nursing facility care, it may be time to explore CHC or the PDA Waiver. Our compassionate, family-first team ensures your loved ones needs are met with dignity and respect. Call us or contact us today to learn how to get started with Pennsylvanias Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services.

Find Comfort and Peace at ONA Solution

Find Comfort and Peace at ONA Solutions A Space for Adults 18+At ONA Solutions, we understand that finding the right living space is crucial, especially for those looking for a peaceful and supportive environment. We offer more than just housing we provide a community designed for comfort, respect, and tranquility. Separate Facilities for Women & MenWe believe in creating a space where everyone feels comfortable and respected. Thats why we offer separate living facilities for women and men, each designed with the unique needs of our residents in mind. Whether youre looking for privacy or a sense of community, we ensure a space that caters to you. $75 Move-In Fee Limited Time OnlyFor a limited time, were offering a special $75 move-in fee. Take advantage of this affordable offer and secure a fully furnished room, ready for you to make it your own. We understand the importance of comfort and affordability, which is why we strive to provide the best value. Fully Furnished, Ready-For-You RoomsOur rooms come fully furnished and thoughtfully designed to provide you with a comfortable and stress-free living environment. With everything you need already in place, all you have to do is settle in and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Respectful, Peaceful, Adult-Only EnvironmentAt ONA Solutions, we maintain a peaceful, adult-only environment that prioritizes respect and understanding. Our community is designed to be a supportive and quiet space where you can relax, socialize, and enjoy your time. Welcoming Seniors, Veterans, and MoreWere proud to offer housing to adults 18 and over, including: Veterans Seniors & Retirees Teachers & Students SSI/SSDI Recipients We know that every individual has unique needs, and our environment is tailored to offer comfort and respect to all. Contact Us Today:If you or a loved one are looking for a supportive and peaceful living space, were here to help. (239) 688-4815 | (239) 785-3315 www.onasolutionsllc.com Connect with Us: Facebook: facebook.com/onasolutionsllc Instagram: @onasolutionsllc2024 LinkedIn: ONA Solutions LLC #SafeLivingForWomen #MenWelcomeToo #AffordableComfort #ONACommunity #SeniorLiving

Local Services By This Author

Friendship Village of South Hills

Assisted Living 1296 Boyce Road, Upper Saint Clair, Pennsylvania, 15241

Assisted Living with Dignity, Connection, and ComfortJust Outside PittsburghAs needs change with age, so does the type of care that best supports independence and well-being. For many older adults, assisted living provides the perfect balance: personalized help with daily tasks, freedom to pursue interests, and a warm community that feels like home. Thats exactly what residents find in this inviting assisted living setting nestled in the hills near Pittsburgh.Here, seniors dont just receive caretheyre embraced by a community that respects who they are, where theyve been, and how they want to live today.Personalized Assistance, Delivered with HeartEvery resident in assisted living receives the individual support they need, when they need it. Whether its a helping hand with bathing, dressing, managing medications, or navigating a daily routine, trained team members are available 24/7 with kindness, discretion, and compassion.Theres no one-size-fits-all here. Care plans are thoughtfully created in collaboration with residents and their families, always honoring preferences, habits, and personal goals. The focus is on helping each individual maintain their independence while enjoying the reassurance of support just a moment away.This person-centered approach promotes confidence, security, and a renewed sense of freedom.Stylish, Comfortable Living SpacesResidents enjoy private apartment-style residences, available in a range of floor plans to suit different needs and preferences. Each space includes a full private bathroom, thoughtfully designed features for safety and accessibility, and room for cherished furniture and personal dcor.These arent clinical roomstheyre true homes, filled with light, warmth, and personality. Whether youre sipping coffee by the window, reading your favorite novel, or inviting friends in for a chat, your space reflects your lifestyle.A Life Filled with Activity, Purpose, and JoyOne of the most powerful benefits of assisted living is the opportunity to reconnect with interests, friendships, and meaningful routines. The community offers a robust calendar of events and activities designed to support physical, social, and emotional wellness.Residents can participate in:Fitness classes tailored for older adultsArt and creative expression workshopsGardening and outdoor activitiesGroup outings to local destinationsLive entertainment, lectures, and cultural programsFaith-based services and spiritual supportWhether youre outgoing and social or prefer a quiet cup of tea with a neighbor, theres something here for everyone. And best of all, you can choose your own rhythmengaging when it feels right, resting when you prefer solitude.Nutritious Dining with a Personal TouchMealtimes are an enjoyable experience, not just a necessity. Residents savor fresh, chef-prepared meals crafted with both nutrition and taste in mind. Meals are served in a welcoming dining room setting that encourages connection and conversation.Special dietary needs? Thats never a problem. The dining team works closely with each resident to accommodate preferences and ensure meals support health and wellness goals.Snacks, hydration stations, and casual bistro-style options make it easy to eat well throughout the day.Wellness and Health Services On-SiteWhile assisted living supports independence, it also provides access to a range of wellness services right within the community. From routine health monitoring and scheduled medical appointments to rehabilitation therapies and fitness programming, residents have convenient access to the care and resources they need to feel their best.The peace of mind that comes from knowing medical professionals are nearby is invaluablefor both residents and their families.Seamless Access to Additional Levels of CareAssisted living here is part of a larger, full-service senior living campus. That means residents dont have to worry about moving again if their care needs increase. Should the time come when more support is needed, they can easily transition to other services like memory care, skilled nursing, or rehabilitationall within the same familiar setting and surrounded by trusted caregivers.This continuity reduces stress, preserves community ties, and offers long-term stability for both residents and loved ones.A Welcoming Community That Feels Like FamilyThe difference isnt just in the servicesits in the spirit of the community itself. From the moment you arrive, youll notice the warmth of the staff, the ease of conversation between residents, and the genuine smiles that greet you in every hallway. This is a place where people truly carefor one another, and about the kind of life theyre building together.Friendships flourish, purpose is rediscovered, and each day offers the chance for joy.Discover Assisted Living with Heart, Near PittsburghChoosing an assisted living community is about more than finding careits about finding connection, comfort, and a renewed sense of possibility. Whether you're planning for yourself or helping a loved one make the transition, now is the time to explore a setting where support and independence go hand-in-hand.Step inside and experience what thoughtful, dignified assisted living can feel likea place where your story matters and your future feels bright.

Friendship Village of South Hills

Memory Care 1296 Boyce Road, Upper Saint Clair, Pennsylvania, 15241

Dignified, Compassionate Memory Care for Your Loved OneNavigating the journey of memory loss is never easy, but finding the right support can make all the difference. When memory care is done right, it provides more than safety and routineit restores dignity, encourages connection, and helps loved ones thrive in ways that matter most. Thats exactly what families find at this serene and supportive memory care community in the hills just outside Pittsburgh.Set in a peaceful neighborhood, this specialized memory care environment offers seniors living with Alzheimers or other forms of dementia a warm, secure place to call homewhere every detail is thoughtfully designed to promote comfort, calm, and connection.A Safe and Familiar EnvironmentThe memory care neighborhood is purposefully designed to feel like home while providing built-in safety features that offer peace of mind to both residents and their families. Private suites include accessible bathrooms, space for cherished personal belongings, and a layout that makes moving around easier and less confusing.Residents are encouraged to decorate their living spaces with familiar items that spark memories and provide comfort. Every inch of the environment is created with both security and serenity in mindbecause those with memory challenges thrive best in spaces that feel warm and predictable.Secure entrances, 24/7 on-site nursing support, and a compassionate caregiving team ensure that loved ones are protected while still maintaining as much independence as possible.Personalized Care Plans Rooted in RespectNo two people experience memory loss the same way. Thats why care plans are customized based on individual needs, preferences, and routines. The experienced team works closely with families to understand each residents history, lifestyle, and personality. From daily care needs to preferred activities and favorite meals, every detail matters.Residents receive assistance with daily tasks such as bathing, grooming, and medication management, all delivered with the utmost kindness and respect. As needs change, the care evolves right along with themalways delivered by professionals trained in dementia-specific support.Purposeful Engagement, Every DayOne of the most important aspects of effective memory care is maintaining purpose and joy in daily life. Residents benefit from a wide range of activities specifically designed to support cognitive function, reduce anxiety, and build meaningful moments.Daily programs include music therapy, guided exercise, art classes, pet visits, baking groups, and memory-based games. Theres also a beautiful enclosed memory gardena favorite retreat for both relaxation and gentle activity. The garden is secure yet open to the beauty of nature, encouraging fresh air and calming experiences.These intentional activities not only keep residents engaged but help strengthen emotional connections and preserve dignity, no matter where they are in their journey.Support That Extends to FamiliesMemory loss affects more than the individualit touches the entire family. This community recognizes that and makes a special effort to support family caregivers and loved ones through every step. From open communication and care meetings to support groups and educational resources, families never have to feel like theyre going it alone.Youll always know how your loved one is doing, and the care team remains available for guidance, questions, or simply a listening ear. Its a partnershipone rooted in empathy, trust, and a shared commitment to doing whats best for your loved one.An Uplifting Environment with Exceptional AmenitiesResidents in memory care also enjoy access to comforting amenities that enhance daily life. There are common areas for music and movie nights, cozy gathering spaces for small group visits, and wellness-focused programming that addresses the mind, body, and spirit.Meals are prepared with care and served in an inviting dining room, designed to reduce confusion and promote a relaxed, enjoyable experience. Dining staff are trained in serving techniques that support dignity and autonomy while offering appropriate assistance when needed.Other amenities such as an on-site salon, activity rooms, and thoughtfully planned outdoor spaces allow residents to continue enjoying the little things that bring them happiness.A Continuum of Care That Brings Peace of MindThis community isnt just a place for todayits a place for the future. As part of a full-service senior living campus, memory care residents benefit from seamless access to a full continuum of care, including rehabilitation, skilled nursing, and even hospice services if needed down the road.This means residents can remain in familiar surroundings and receive consistent care from a team they know and trust. For families, this long-term stability offers unmatched peace of mind, knowing that their loved ones needs will always be met without another stressful move.A Community Where Your Loved One Can Truly BelongCompassionate memory care is more than just a serviceits a calling. Here, every caregiver, nurse, and staff member understands the challenges of dementia and brings deep patience, empathy, and commitment to each interaction. Residents are seen, heard, and valued. And families are welcomed as part of the community, every step of the way.This is memory care with hearta place where every person is honored for who they are and supported with purpose and love.If someone you care about is living with memory loss, now is the time to discover a community that truly understands what they need. Visit in person, speak with the care team, and see for yourself how dignity, joy, and peace of mind can flourisheven in the face of memory challenges..