Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
By Greg Pascucci
Selecting the right senior living community may be one of the most important decisions you and your loved ones will make. Although there is no magic formula for determining when a move will be right for you, being proactive in your research and beginning the process of discovery early on will make the transition much easier.
Be sure to include the following on your checklist:
1 Curb Appeal
What are your initial thoughts upon arrival at the community? Remember, first impressions make lasting impressions and can be a tell-tale sign of how well the community is maintained. Pay attention to the landscaping and signage. Are you impressed with their attention to detail?
2 Inside the Community
Lillian Paciotta said she knew she was home the moment she walked into The Carlisle Naples, an active retirement community. She loved the friendly interaction between residents and staff. These are just a few things to be mindful of when touring a community. Also, how is the staff dressed? Are elevators, if available, convenient and in working condition?
3 Lifestyle and Amenities
Each senior living community has its own spirit, attitude and culture. Finding one that fits your lifestyle and personality is important to your overall well-being and happiness. Be sure to ask what is included in the monthly fee, such as housekeeping and linen services. Review the community’s monthly calendar and ask yourself if the classes and fitness program are appealing? Could you see yourself living at the community?
Carlisle resident Barbara Veghte says the CARF-accredited community’s wealth of onsite amenities helped solidify her decision to move. She was impressed by the onsite restaurant’s flexible 12-hour dining as well as the outdoor swimming pool, which provides the perfect backdrop for water fitness classes.
4 New Residence
The staff at The Carlisle Naples work with residents and their families to ensure a smooth move. There are a variety of spacious one and two-bedroom floor plans to fit most everyone’s preferences. Plus, the community is pet-friendly, enabling residents to continue the special bonds they share with Fido or Fluffy.
Ask if you’re allowed to decorate or modify your residence to suit your personal preferences. Check for conveniences within your residence such as a washer and dryer or even a full-size kitchen to prepare your own meals if you so choose.
5 Management
When time allows, ask to meet the executive director or general manager. Do they convey the same warmth and hospitality of the community? Do they appear experienced in their role of managing the senior living community? To aid in your decision-making, research the senior living community’s owner/operator and their reputation in the industry; have they been recognized by any awards or third-party endorsements.
You’ll find you may have to visit a community several times before finalizing a decision. Try touring on different days or times of the day and asking to stay for lunch or dinner. Chat with current residents and consider attending one or two social events open to prospective residents.
“Any move can certainly cause a bit of anxiety, but remember to focus on all the benefits of your new home: peace of mind, new friendships and the unlimited opportunities for social, educational and cultural activities,” said The Carlisle’s Executive Director Bill Diamond. “Once you’ve settled, you’ll inevitably say you wish you’d made the move sooner.”
To learn more tips for selecting a retirement community, please visit: https://www.srgseniorliving.com/choosing-a-community.
Located at 6945 Carlisle Court in Naples, The Carlisle offers independent and assisted living lifestyles featuring spacious one-and two-bedroom residences, weekly housekeeping and flat linen services, basic cable TV, all utilities except telephone, and delicious dining with daily, chef-prepared specials. The community is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), an important distinction that provides residents with the assurance that the highest standards of quality care, services and safeguards are maintained. For more information about the community, please call 239-221-0017 or visit www.TheCarlisleNaples.com.
The Carlisle
6945 Carlisle Court in Naples
239-221-0017
www.TheCarlisleNaples.com
