Friendship Village of South Hills

If you live in the Pittsburgh area or youve visited here, you understand what people mean when they say the city blends the best of small-town friendliness with the benefits of big-city living.That welcoming atmosphere is also part of what makes Steel City an attractive retirement destination. It offers all the three Cs culture, cuisine, and cost of living in great supply. In this article, weve compiled a list of the top 5 reasons that make Pittsburgh one of the best places to retire in Pennsylvania.#1 Comfortable Cost of LivingWhen deciding whether or not Pittsburgh is the right place to retire for you, its important to consider the financial aspects of the city. Whats the general cost of living, and how does it compare to other locations? Does Pennsylvania tax retirement income?The short answer? Choosing senior living in Pittsburgh, PA, is a smart financial move. In general, the cost of living in Pittsburgh is lower than the national average, and the city, along with the entire Keystone State, offers some notably tax-friendly advantages for retirees. Most retirement income including Social Security income and payments from retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs are tax-exempt. Pension income is also exempt from taxes, and when it comes to taxable purchases, from groceries to golf clubs, the states average total sales tax rate is among the 20 lowest in the country.#2 Dont Miss AttractionsIn addition to being kind to your bottom line, retiring in Pittsburgh, PA, presents a world of opportunities for seniors to explore, experience, and grow. Youve earned your freedom and your free time, and the metro area is a place where you can make the most of both! Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium  These two attractions are definitely not a one and done experience. With 77 acres to explore, youll want to visit the zoo and aquarium regularly to browse beautiful, well-designed exhibits that foster understanding, respect, and appreciation of wildlife. Its a wonderful experience for both adults and children perfect for a days adventure with the grandkids. State Parks  If you love the great outdoors, rest assured, Pittsburgh has plenty of wonderful state and municipal parks to enjoy close to home. Whether youre into boating, hiking, biking, kayaking, or even camping, getting your fill of fun will be less than a half-hours drive. Carnegie Museum of Art  Known as the first contemporary art museum in the country, Carnegie Museum of Art likes to refer to its collection as the Old Masters of Tomorrow. Its one of the Pittsburgh regions finest examples of culture and is beloved not only for its 30,000 art objects, but also for its superb interactive programming that allows patrons to engage with the collection. Very cool. The Andy Warhol Museum  Artist Andy Warhol hails from Pittsburgh, PA, and The Andy Warhol Museum celebrates his career with the worlds largest collection of his artworks. In fact, its one of the most comprehensive single-artist museums anywhere. Whether youre a lover of pop art or not, you cant help but be mesmerized by Warhols bold, colorful pieces.#3 Marvelous CuisineFoodies looking to retire in Pittsburghyoure in luck. Pittsburgh dining options score high when it comes to variety, quality, and downright deliciousness. Pittsburghers (yes, thats what theyre called) hold certain dishes in high esteem, including pierogis, square-cut pizza, smiley-face cookies, potato patch fries, chipped chopped ham, and pepperoni rolls. Be sure to put the Strip District on your dining list, too, where you can enjoy the whole gamut of eateries before heading to Station Square for high-end riverfront shopping.Looking to spend time dining close to home? Luxury retirement communities like Friendship Village of South Hills offer the best of both worldsstellar on-site dining and close proximity to the citys downtown restaurants.#4 Excellent Health CareThe Pittsburgh region and its residents are fortunate to have the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center for health care. Its one of the top medical facilities in the country, an important benefit for seniors. For over 15 years, UPMC has ranked among the top 20 best hospitals in America according to U.S. News & World Report hospital Honor Roll. In addition to the flagship hospital, it boasts 40 hospitals in the system, along with 700 clinical locations, including outpatient sites and doctors offices. Living in the Steel City, youll never be far from superior health care.#5 Superb Senior Living at Friendship Village of South HillsThe 5th top reason for retiring in Pittsburgh, PA, is having the pleasure of living in a welcoming community with a resort-like feel and a wonderful carefree attitude. Thats the life that awaits you at Friendship Village of South Hills. You can enjoy an active, vibrant lifestyle and reside in a beautiful independent living- LinkOpens in New Tab apartment. And youll have peace of mind  knowing youve chosen to make your home in a Life Care- LinkOpens in New Tab community that offers higher levels of care if and when your health needs change.A Great Life Awaits You in Pittsburgh Theres so much to love about retiring in Pennsylvania. When you become a resident of Friendship Village of South Hills, all the wonderful experiences the Steel City has to offer will be close at hand. If youd like to learn more about life in our welcoming community, simply complete the form below or click here and well be in touch.

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.

Retirement is an exceptional milestone, one where we can finally pursue our own passions and savor the lifestyle that weve worked so hard to achieve. Many older adults find that life in a senior living community gives them a more sociable, maintenance-free and enjoyable retirement than trying to keep up a traditional family home. This is especially true for the 70% of older adults who will require some kind of long-term care.  As you evaluate your choices, you may wonder if a Life Care community like Friendship Village of South Hills is the right choice for you, or if a month-to-month rental makes more sense. This checklist will help you determine which type of living arrangement is best for your financial situation and preferred lifestyle.  Life Care vs. Rental CommunitiesThere are key financial and lifestyle differences between choosing a monthly rental versus a long-term, future-focused Life Care community.  What is a Life Care Community?Life Care communities like Friendship Village of South Hills offer residents access to higher levels of care within that community, as health needs change over time. Life Care residents enjoy their own private residence, access to a wide range of amenities and on-site, long-term care for life. Residents gain access to care through a contractual agreement that requires an upfront entrance fee, as well as a predictable fee each month. Depending on the contract type, residents need never worry about their monthly fees changing even if their health care needs do.   What is a Rental Community?Rental communities can vary significantly in their offerings. Typically, independent living rental communities are geared toward older adults looking for flexible living solutions. They may offer some services and amenities, but they will generally be less robust than those in a Life Care community. While assisted living or memory care might be available, your monthly fees could surge as you progress into higher levels of care. Any short-term care would be billed at market rates. These costs could be significant. For instance, a 55-year-old couple retiring in 2022 could expect to spend nearly one million dollars in medical expenses in their lifetime if costs continue to rise just 2% per year. Healthcare costs rose 14.5% in 2022 alone. Reasons a Life Care Community Might Be Right for YouPredictable CostsOne of the biggest benefits of Life Care is that it enables older adults to account for future healthcare needs now. This provides them and their loved ones with a clear plan for their long-term care, and can reduce the stress associated with rising healthcare costs. It also allows residents to take control of their care needs now, determining where they will receive care and how it will be paid for before those needs change. Family HistoryFamily medical history should always be a major consideration when choosing a community. Even if you dont need care now, your family history can give you a good idea of what your needs might be in the future. For example, those with a history of Alzheimers or dementia often find the guaranteed access to memory care a significant incentive in preparing for whatever the future might hold. Even without a family history, however, the odds that older adults will need some form of long-term care is high. Its estimated that 70% of seniors will need a high level of long-term support and services.  Comfort and StabilityThe comfort and stability that Life Care provides cant be overlooked. As a Life Care resident at a community like Friendship Village of South Hills, you will receive care in the community where you live. This eliminates the need for a big move later in life, allowing you the freedom to build new relationships within the community. You will also have the certainty of knowing that the costs for this care have already been met, and will require no future changes on your part. Reasons a Rental Community Might Be Right for YouLess Financial CommitmentFor those who dont want to make a long-term financial commitment, a rental community can be a more favorable option. These communities dont require an entrance fee, and there is typically no financial penalty should you decide to move, as long as you give the required notice. Increased FlexibilityWhile rental communities dont have all the assurances of Life Care, they can offer more flexibility. As with any other rental property, you can give notice and move without any additional financial penalties. For those who travel frequently or are still exploring Life Care communities, the flexibility gives them a chance to try community living without a significant financial investment. However, should circumstances or care needs change, renters will need to enter a higher level of care with significantly higher fees (fees that have historically been increasing at a rapid rate). This option may seem good in the short-term, but offers little stability or assurances in the long-term. Explore Life Care Options at Friendship Village of South HillsAt Friendship Village of South Hills, the spiritual, emotional and physical wellness of our residents is our top priority. Nestled in a quiet, wooded area near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, our Life Care community is a sanctuary for seniors looking to get the most out of their retirement. We host lectures, performances, live music and other programming to ensure they have every opportunity to be active and engaged with their neighbors. Our community is also home to multiple dining venues and a fitness center with a personal trainer.  

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.

Fall is upon us and it brings no shortage of fun festivities. At Friendship Village of South Hills, were looking forward to all that the changing of seasons brings.The Beauty of Fall in Upper St. ClairOn the list of our favorite things about living in a Mid-Atlantic state like Pennsylvania, getting to experience four distinct seasons would have to be near the top. Autumn in St. Clair can be quite stunning. Fall serves as a transition from the hot, lazy days of summer into the holiday season and winter months ahead. From the start of the season in September until the end of the season in late November, we get to experience the days start to cool down and get shorter while the foliage erupts into a glorious blaze of color.In addition to the changes in weather and our natural surroundings, fall also brings back-to-school season, the return of fall sports, and some very special holidays including Veterans Day, Halloween and Thanksgiving. Yes, theres a change in the air and plenty to celebrate, so weve rounded up some of our favorite fall celebrations and activities below. What (and how!) you choose to celebrate is up to you.Fall Festivities Around PittsburghIf youre interested in getting out and about to take advantage of this new season, there are plenty of fabulous events happening around Pittsburgh this fall. Drive-in theaters. Drive-in theaters are making a comeback. And what better season to enjoy an outdoor movie than fall? With a number of drive-ins around the greater Pittsburgh area showing different films throughout the fall, youre sure to find a movie that sparks your interest. Leaf peeping. Take in the peak of fall foliage at some of our best local parks and sites. Stick to spots in our neighborhood like Clair Park or the Upper St. Clair Waterfalls, or venture out a bit more and explore places like Schenley Park, Raccoon Creek State Park, the Cathedral of Learning or Fallingwater. Doors Open Pittsburgh. Spend a Saturday learning about the architecture of some of our citys historic buildings as well as newer ones in this annual event. Wine tasting cruise. Enjoy a beautiful fall evening with a different point of view from the river! Savor wines of Italy and the sights of downtown Pittsburgh during a wine tasting cruise. Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra is a delight any time of year, and this fall is no exception. With performances of Beethovens Fourth Symphony, Mendelssohns Scottish, Tchaikovskys Fiery Little Russian, Griegs Beloved Piano Concerto and an evening of swing music inspired by the Harlem Renaissance, the season is filled with music to tickle your ears. Light Up Night. Close out the fall season with Pittsburghs annual Light Up Night as we prepare to usher in the holiday season. How to Celebrate Fall at HomeIf youd prefer to stick closer to home, there are still plenty of ways to make the most of the changing seasons.   Foliage gazing. While there are plenty of beautiful places around the state to take in the changing autumn colors, theres no need to get in a car at all. Take in the festive foliage with a simple stroll around the neighborhood. Football fun. For many, fall isnt complete without football. Whether cheering on the Steelers or your favorite college team, an in-person watch party or virtual tailgate with friends and family is a fun way to celebrate one of the highlights of the season. Seasonal baking. If the turning seasons have you thinking about warm baked goods or the flavors of pumpkin spice, a little autumnal baking can help set the stage for a beautiful fall day. Share your treats with friends and family or keep them for yourself we wont tell! Festive decorating. If your home is your happy place, you can get it and yourself into the fall spirit with a little seasonal fluff and buff. From door wreaths and welcome mats, to throw blankets and pillows or a vase fall blooms, help usher in this season with small changes around your home that make you happy. Celebrate Fall at Friendship Village of South HillsWhether you hit the town or prefer to stay close to home, celebrate fall with a community of friends at Friendship Village of South Hills in Upper St. Clair, Pennsylvania. From the >seasonally inspired menus in our restaurants, to our on-site events and group outings, our residents will be making the most of fall all season long.Schedule an in-person or virtual visit to learn more about life at Friendship Village of South Hills. Please fill out the form below or give us a call at 724-941-3100.

We live longer, healthier lives than ever before, which has upended many stereotypes about what it means to be over 60. More seniors are engaged and active well into their 80s and beyond. With so many more years ahead of us, its no surprise that dating among the senior set has also increased. Whether you have already dipped a toe into the senior dating scene or are curious about getting started, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind on your journey. Be ConfidentSocial norms are always changing. Today, its perfectly acceptable for you to make the first move and ask someone on a date, regardless of your background or gender. Whether you are using a smartphone dating app or website- LinkOpens in New Tab or chatting up a neighbor, having confidence in yourself is key. Keep an Open MindDont be too quick to judge, keep an open mind, and be an attentive listener. Ask questions. Be present in each conversation. This will make your date more engaging and enjoyable. Remember that those you are dating, like you, will have lived full lives of love, loss, hard work, and joy. This can all seem overwhelming, but it doesnt have to be. It can be truly thrilling to discover more about another person with a rich, full life.   Be Upfront With Your ExpectationsWhat are you looking to get out of a new relationship? Are there certain things that are absolutely off the table? Maybe you are seeking long-term commitment over a more casual situation. While you dont want to rule out a potential partner right away, it can be helpful to have these conversations early on to avoid hurt feelings.Dont Dwell on the PastWhile it can be fun to reminisce about certain moments in time, try not to dwell too much on the past- LinkOpens in New Tab on your first couple of dates. This should be time spent getting to know each other and your likes and interests. While your past informs who you are today, its not all that there is to enjoy. Dont fail to mention your current hobbies and interests. Sharing them can be a lot of fun!Be Respectful and KindMost first dates can be pleasant if you approach someone with kindness and respect. Youll no doubt be nervous, but dont forget the power of a positive attitude and a cheerful smile. Pay attention to your date and how they react to the way a conversation is going. Dont take offense if they dont respond how you might expect them to. A little bit of kindness can go a long way, whether you are seeking friendship or romance.Explore New Connections at Friendship VillageFriendship Village of South Hills, a senior living community in Upper St. Clair, Pennsylvania (near Pittsburgh), is an exceptional place to pursue your passions and make new connections. Join a club, sign up for a group exercise class, or socialize over a nice meal or glass of wine. Here, every day is full of opportunity and the excitement of new adventure awaits around every corner.Contact us to learn more! 

The holidays can be an emotional time for older adults, and this is especially true for a loved one living with Alzheimers or another form of dementia. The thought of planning a holiday celebration while caring for your loved one can feel overwhelming, but it doesnt have to be.  In this article, were going to cover some best practices on how to host a successful holiday gathering with a loved one with Alzheimers or another form of dementia. INVOLVE YOUR LOVED ONEOne of the easiest ways you can bring your loved one joy during the holidays is to include them in your holiday preparations. This can mean allowing them to take a more active role in simple holiday preparations or having them observe your own. Think about what sorts of things your loved one enjoyed most about previous holidays and involve them where appropriate.Encouraging your loved one to take part in preparations can help get them into the holiday spirit and also make them more comfortable with what is happening on the day of the celebration.PLAN A SMALLER CELEBRATIONA loved one who has dementia can quickly become overwhelmed by large groups of people, especially those friends and family members who they may only see a few times a year. Whether youre planning a holiday celebration at a memory care residence or at home, youll want to keep the guest list to a minimum. Youll also want to keep your holiday celebration quiet and relaxed.One way to ensure your loved one gets to see everyone who is important to them is to arrange for family members to drop in on different days. Schedule visits at times when you know your loved one is typically in a good mood. Consider virtual visits where appropriate, as well.CREATE THE RIGHT ATMOSPHERECreating the right atmosphere is a large part of any successful holiday party. When youre celebrating the holidays with a loved one who has dementia the atmosphere can still be festive. You just need to keep your loved ones comfort in mind while you do your planning.Here are some tips to help you set the right mood for a loved one with dementia.Celebrate in a familiar setting. A sudden change in environment may cause distress for a loved one who has dementia. Consider bringing the party to them.Prepare quiet distractions to have ready if your loved one becomes overwhelmed. Even something simple, like going for a walk, can help your loved one feel more comfortable.Avoid excessive noise, including loud conversations or loud music. Make sure there is a quiet space where your loved one can rest and recharge as needed.Avoid lighting that is too bright or too dark. Blinking or twinkling lights can also be disorienting for someone who has dementia. Non-blinking lights are best.Instead of elaborate decorations, choose a few meaningful items.Creating the right atmosphere will vary from person-to-person. Keep in mind what types of things typically cause stress or bring your loved one joy. Know this may change as time goes on.ADAPT HOLIDAY ACTIVITIESWhen planning holiday activities for a loved one with dementia, its better to focus on a smaller number of meaningful activities they will enjoy. Someone who loves cooking may find joy in helping prepare the holiday meal. Others may simply appreciate observing activities.Consider setting an agenda for activities ahead of time and sending it out to your guests. This will help everyone know what to expect and if they need to bring anything with them. Getting your guests all on the same page ensures a better holiday experience for everyone involved.TAKE TIME TO ENJOY THE EXPERIENCEHoliday celebrations, while fun, can be stressful for the person planning them. But the additional effort you put into accommodating the needs of someone you care about allows you to reflect on what is most important in life and filter out the noise and clutter.Know that things may not go as planned. Remain positive and stay flexible. When youre celebrating the holiday with your loved one, give yourself time to enjoy the experience.CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS AT FRIENDSHIP VILLAGEAt Friendship Village of South Hills, a senior living community in Upper St. Clair, Pennsylvania, we work with our memory care residents and their families to help them celebrate the holidays in a way that is joyful for everyone.Whether you are looking for a private space to hold a small gathering of family and friends or simply want to have a holiday celebration in your loved ones suite, our team members will work with you to help identify the right holiday setup and accommodations for your loved one.This article was written by Friendship Village of South Hills.

If you live in the Pittsburgh area or youve visited here, you understand what people mean when they say the city blends the best of small-town friendliness with the benefits of big-city living.That welcoming atmosphere is also part of what makes Steel City an attractive retirement destination. It offers all the three Cs culture, cuisine, and cost of living in great supply. In this article, weve compiled a list of the top 5 reasons that make Pittsburgh one of the best places to retire in Pennsylvania.#1 Comfortable Cost of LivingWhen deciding whether or not Pittsburgh is the right place to retire for you, its important to consider the financial aspects of the city. Whats the general cost of living, and how does it compare to other locations? Does Pennsylvania tax retirement income?The short answer? Choosing senior living in Pittsburgh, PA, is a smart financial move. In general, the cost of living in Pittsburgh is lower than the national average, and the city, along with the entire Keystone State, offers some notably tax-friendly advantages for retirees. Most retirement income including Social Security income and payments from retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs are tax-exempt. Pension income is also exempt from taxes, and when it comes to taxable purchases, from groceries to golf clubs, the states average total sales tax rate is among the 20 lowest in the country.#2 Dont Miss AttractionsIn addition to being kind to your bottom line, retiring in Pittsburgh, PA, presents a world of opportunities for seniors to explore, experience, and grow. Youve earned your freedom and your free time, and the metro area is a place where you can make the most of both! Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium  These two attractions are definitely not a one and done experience. With 77 acres to explore, youll want to visit the zoo and aquarium regularly to browse beautiful, well-designed exhibits that foster understanding, respect, and appreciation of wildlife. Its a wonderful experience for both adults and children perfect for a days adventure with the grandkids. State Parks  If you love the great outdoors, rest assured, Pittsburgh has plenty of wonderful state and municipal parks to enjoy close to home. Whether youre into boating, hiking, biking, kayaking, or even camping, getting your fill of fun will be less than a half-hours drive. Carnegie Museum of Art  Known as the first contemporary art museum in the country, Carnegie Museum of Art likes to refer to its collection as the Old Masters of Tomorrow. Its one of the Pittsburgh regions finest examples of culture and is beloved not only for its 30,000 art objects, but also for its superb interactive programming that allows patrons to engage with the collection. Very cool. The Andy Warhol Museum  Artist Andy Warhol hails from Pittsburgh, PA, and The Andy Warhol Museum celebrates his career with the worlds largest collection of his artworks. In fact, its one of the most comprehensive single-artist museums anywhere. Whether youre a lover of pop art or not, you cant help but be mesmerized by Warhols bold, colorful pieces.#3 Marvelous CuisineFoodies looking to retire in Pittsburghyoure in luck. Pittsburgh dining options score high when it comes to variety, quality, and downright deliciousness. Pittsburghers (yes, thats what theyre called) hold certain dishes in high esteem, including pierogis, square-cut pizza, smiley-face cookies, potato patch fries, chipped chopped ham, and pepperoni rolls. Be sure to put the Strip District on your dining list, too, where you can enjoy the whole gamut of eateries before heading to Station Square for high-end riverfront shopping.Looking to spend time dining close to home? Luxury retirement communities like Friendship Village of South Hills offer the best of both worldsstellar on-site dining and close proximity to the citys downtown restaurants.#4 Excellent Health CareThe Pittsburgh region and its residents are fortunate to have the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center for health care. Its one of the top medical facilities in the country, an important benefit for seniors. For over 15 years, UPMC has ranked among the top 20 best hospitals in America according to U.S. News & World Report hospital Honor Roll. In addition to the flagship hospital, it boasts 40 hospitals in the system, along with 700 clinical locations, including outpatient sites and doctors offices. Living in the Steel City, youll never be far from superior health care.#5 Superb Senior Living at Friendship Village of South HillsThe 5th top reason for retiring in Pittsburgh, PA, is having the pleasure of living in a welcoming community with a resort-like feel and a wonderful carefree attitude. Thats the life that awaits you at Friendship Village of South Hills. You can enjoy an active, vibrant lifestyle and reside in a beautiful independent living- LinkOpens in New Tab apartment. And youll have peace of mind  knowing youve chosen to make your home in a Life Care- LinkOpens in New Tab community that offers higher levels of care if and when your health needs change.A Great Life Awaits You in Pittsburgh Theres so much to love about retiring in Pennsylvania. When you become a resident of Friendship Village of South Hills, all the wonderful experiences the Steel City has to offer will be close at hand. If youd like to learn more about life in our welcoming community, simply complete the form below or click here and well be in touch.

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.