Written by Brian B

Retirement Communities Near Me

Retirement Communities Near Me

If you are searching for “retirement communities near me” anywhere in Arizona, this post will help!

Retirement Community In Mesa, AZ

Canyon Winds is a Senior Living Services Community located in Mesa, Arizona. This facility offers plenty of choices for senior citizens of varying needs. One can find more than just assisted living at Canyon Winds, as they also offer independent and memory care services. This resort-style facility is breathtaking, with spacious floor plans and dining areas. A full activity program and fitness center await future residents. Looking to bring a small cat or dog to your new home? Not a problem at all, as every SLS Community is pet friendly!

Visit Canyon Winds website here.

Retirement Community In Sedona, AZ

Sedona is regarded as the most scenic city in all of Arizona. And that reason alone makes it a wonderful place to call home. Sedona Winds, located in the heart of the red rocks, offers stunning courtyard views, along with a 24-hour staff for every need. Settle for a one-bedroom or large studio apartment, or choose their two-story building to enjoy breathtaking views, daily. General maintenance, weekly laundry and deep cleaning of your apartment, an emergency call system, and a diverse activities program are all included when you choose Sedona Winds.

Visit Sedona Winds website here.

Retirement Community In Surprise, AZ

If you’ve lived in Surprise your entire life and want to stay close to friends and family, then Chaparral Winds is the assisted living facility for you! As Chaparral Winds’ website states, this is a community designed for the active seniors, while still providing a relaxed vibe throughout the facility. A pool and hot tub combined with a beautiful dining area make this one of the premier communities in all of Arizona. Great shopping, golf courses, restaurants and medical facilities are all located within a few miles.

Visit Chaparral Winds website here.

Retirement Community In Peoria, AZ

Offering assisted, independent and memory care services, Desert Winds is another top-notch community in the valley. Desert Winds offers three types of floor plans for assisted living residents. Whether a two-bedroom, two-bath or one-bedroom, one-bath is what you desire, Desert Winds has a plan for you. Studio apartments are available as well. All of these floor plans can be toured virtually on Desert Winds’ official website. All apartments come fully equipped with individual heat and AC units, a refrigerator, microwave, window treatments and more.

Visit Desert Winds website here.

Retirement Community In Youngtown, AZ

There isn’t a more appropriately named setting for this lively community than Youngtown! Monthly rent at Ventana Winds includes three well balanced meals plus snacks, 24-hour staff, and a daily tidying of your apartment. The offerings don’t end there! Personal laundry is done weekly, transportation is provided for appointments or shopping, a 24/7 emergency call system is in place, as well as a full slate of exciting activities. Check out all of Ventana Winds’ offerings today!

Visit Ventana Winds website here.

10 Fun Things To Do In Retirement

Why Retire In Arizona?

Here is a list of ten reasons why so many retirees are choosing to settle in Arizona:

  1. Arizona has more sunny days than any other state.
  2. Quality healthcare throughout the state.
  3. Low cost of living.
  4. Fewer tax burdens.
  5. Many work opportunities for seniors.
  6. Rising economy.
  7. Beautiful scenery.
  8. One of the world’s top golf destinations.
  9. Low humidity.
  10. Many sporting events statewide.

Chaparral Winds In Surprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Written by Brian B

Easy Crafts For Seniors With Dementia

7 Easy Crafts For Seniors With Dementia

If you are searching for “easy crafts for seniors with dementia,” this article will provide you with seven great activities!

Crafts For Seniors With Dementia

Here are seven great crafts, perfect for seniors suffering from dementia:

  • Flower arrangements
  • Play with magnetic letters
  • Paper cups for stacking
  • Keep a beat with a homemade shaker
  • Sort through coins
  • Fun with play dough
  • Scrapbooking

1. Flower Arrangements

Arranging flowers is always a productive and enjoyable activity for those suffering from dementia. This is an especially good idea for individuals that once loved gardening. Sit back and let them create some beautiful flower arrangements. These arrangements are perfect to keep in the home for the future. All you need to do is purchase a plastic vase, florist foam, as well as artificial flowers.

2. Play With Magnetic Letters

Put magnetic letters on some sort of metal baking sheet and let the senior come up with as many fun words as possible. This is a terrific brain exercise, for obvious reasons. A simple activity of sorting the letters by color can be enjoyable too!

3. Paper Cups For Stacking

This is one of the best and least expensive activities you can set up. Buy some cheap party or paper cups for the senior in your life. Individuals with dementia generally love the task of stacking these cups in multiple ways.

4. Keep A Beat With A Homemade Shakers

Keeping a beat is a very useful activity that has been proven to stimulate the mind – an essential need for those with dementia. Making a homemade shaker prior to keeping a beat can be an additional task for your loved one. We suggest filling a plastic container with dry beans or pasta to construct the shaker.

5. Sort Through Coins

Sorting through coins is fun and can take a long time to complete. It is also great at triggering memories. This task may remind seniors of when they used to balance a checkbook, set budgets and make weekly trips to the bank.

6. Fun With Play Dough

Play dough can offer fun for all ages, especially for senior citizens. Let them relax with this peaceful activity, creating any objects or shapes they’d like. Always make sure to have cookie cutters on hand while using the play dough.

7. Scrapbooking

For this fun activity, all you will need is a notebook, magazines and/or newspapers, scissors and a glue stick. Make sure you choose a safe pair of scissors, of course. Have the senior in your life look over and investigate all parts of the magazine and newspapers. Then, have them cut out pictures that interest them, eventually gluing them into the notebook. You’ll be sure to enjoy the arrangements they can come up with.

Scrapbooking

What Are The Early Signs Of Dementia?

So how do you know if you or a loved one is showing early signs of dementia? Here are ten of the earliest signs that have been linked to dementia down the road:

  • Loss of Memory
  • Difficulty Planning Or Addressing Problems
  • Trouble Doing Familiar Tasks
  • Time Or Place Confusion
  • Difficulty Understanding Visual Information
  • Speaking Or Writing Issues
  • Losing Or Misplacing Things
  • Making Poor Decisions
  • Social Withdrawal
  • Changes In Their Mood Or Personality

Read more about the signs of dementia by clicking here.

Assisted Living Facilities in Arizona

Check out our independent living facilities in Arizona below:

Sedona Winds

Sedona Winds is an assisted living facility in Sedona, AZ. Sedona Winds offers activities at their facilities for its residents. We provide activities that allow residents to keep a healthy lifestyle by socializing with their peers and encouraging motion. Sedona Winds beautiful Assisted Living Community offers large studio & one-bedroom apartments with ample space for our resident’s belongings.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Desert Winds

Desert Winds is an assisted living community in Peoria, AZ. Our facility is a large sized assisted living community with 88 units. Communities this size usually offer one-bedroom apartments, multiple care levels, restaurant style dining, and a robust resident development program. Desert Winds wonderful Assisted Living Community offers large studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments with adequate space for our resident’s possessions.

Address: 20554 N 101st Ave, Peoria, AZ 85382

Phone: (623) 362-1200

Chaparral Winds

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds is a unique assisted living located on the border of Sun City and Youngtown, AZ. Each roomy apartment comes with a walk-in closet, a patio or balcony, ample storage and a kitchenette with a full-size refrigerator. Our three-story assisted living facility is built between a lovely courtyard and a crystal-clear swimming pool. Life is destined to be lived at Ventana winds.

Address: 12322 N 113th Ave, Youngtown, AZ 85363

Phone: (623) 583-2460

Canyon Winds

Canyon Winds is an attractive assisted living community in Mesa, AZ. Residents revel in upscale living with first-class care in this gorgeous two-story, 60 unit community featuring Studio, One and Two Bedroom floorplans. Our residents are provided meals, transportation, laundry services and housekeeping. They have access to the full campus and will receive additional support and care as needed.

Address: 2851 N Boulder Canyon, Mesa, AZ 85207

Phone: (480) 948-0700

Written by Brian B

10 Fun Things To Do In Retirement

10 Fun Things To Do In Retirement

Up to this point, your life may have been all about work and raising a family. Retirement is a chance to dedicate time to yourself. If you are searching online for “what to do after retirement” or “things to do in retirement,” then this post is for you!

Fun Things To Do In Retirement

  1. Travel
  2. Volunteer
  3. Get A Part-Time Job
  4. Purchase An RV
  5. Catch Up On Reading
  6. Start A Blog
  7. Fitness Routine
  8. Learn To Play An Instrument
  9. Spend Quality Time With Friends & Family
  10. Public Service

Travel

Retirement is the perfect time to finally take those trips you’ve always been dreaming about. Your work days are now over and the calendar is free. Whether you wish to fly to a foreign country or take a road trip throughout the United States, this is your time to adventure. A common way to travel for many retirees is to visit places they previously explored. Re-visit some of your favorite spots or check a few new places off the bucket list!

Volunteer

Volunteering can be such a rewarding experience for retirees and others. Spend your time giving back, and impacting other lives along the way. There are many resources available to check for volunteer opportunities. You can go through local charities and/or church groups to learn when any opportunities may come up.

Get A Part-Time Job

Even during retirement, it is very common for men and women of a certain age to keep some sort of part-time job. Find something you are really passionate about. Feel free to contact companies or recruiters to learn about any openings that may spark your interest. Adding some extra income and even meeting some new people are just a few great benefits of rejoining the workforce.

Purchase An RV

We mentioned traveling earlier, and there is truly no more enjoyable way to travel than in an RV. An RV is perfect for any long road trips ahead. Perhaps you want to step foot in all 50 states or visit as many national parks as possible. Regardless of the destination, you will always travel in style with an RV. This will give you the comforts of a home, where you’ll still be able to cook, clean and sleep with your own sheets and pillows at night.

Catch Up On Reading

Ease into all of your newfound free time by jumping back into some favorite hobbies. Catch up on all the classic books and novels you simply haven’t had the time for over the past few busy years. Joining a book club and meeting new people that share the same interests is another rewarding experience.

Start A Blog

The older you get, the wiser you become. Do the younger generation a service by sharing your wisdom! Share your favorite experiences, recipes and even work/real-life adventures with a mass audience. Starting a blog is very simple, and it is a great way to communicate with friends and loved ones.

Fitness Routine

One of the best gifts you can get yourself is mental and physical health. Regular exercise is more and more beneficial as we age. It can dramatically improve both mental and physical health over time. Choose some sort of physical fitness that interests you. Going on long walks in the morning or joining a yoga class are two popular options.

Learn To Play An Instrument

Once you’re finally settled into retirement, it’s common for old hobbies to reappear in one’s life. To add to that, there are usually a few hobbies that you always intended to get to, but never found the time. Learning to play an instrument or learning a new language will keep you sharp mentally, and even spark some new interests along the way.

Spend Quality Time With Friends & Family

This is generally priority number one for retirees and the elderly. Family and friends may have moved around due to jobs over the past few decades, so use this time to travel and catch up with them.

Public Service

Choosing to get involved and make a difference in the community is a great use of time. Help others and make an everlasting impact in the community by jumping into the realm of public service.

Assisted Living Facilities in Arizona

Check out our independent living facilities in Arizona below:

Sedona Winds

Sedona Winds is an assisted living facility in Sedona, AZ. Sedona Winds offers activities at their facilities for its residents. We provide activities that allow residents to keep a healthy lifestyle by socializing with their peers and encouraging motion. Sedona Winds beautiful Assisted Living Community offers large studio & one-bedroom apartments with ample space for our resident’s belongings.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Desert Winds

Desert Winds is an assisted living community in Peoria, AZ. Our facility is a large sized assisted living community with 88 units. Communities this size usually offer one-bedroom apartments, multiple care levels, restaurant style dining, and a robust resident development program. Desert Winds wonderful Assisted Living Community offers large studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments with adequate space for our resident’s possessions.

Address: 20554 N 101st Ave, Peoria, AZ 85382

Phone: (623) 362-1200

Chaparral Winds

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds is a unique assisted living located on the border of Sun City and Youngtown, AZ. Each roomy apartment comes with a walk-in closet, a patio or balcony, ample storage and a kitchenette with a full-size refrigerator. Our three-story assisted living facility is built between a lovely courtyard and a crystal-clear swimming pool. Life is destined to be lived at Ventana winds.

Address: 12322 N 113th Ave, Youngtown, AZ 85363

Phone: (623) 583-2460

Canyon Winds

Canyon Winds is an attractive assisted living community in Mesa, AZ. Residents revel in upscale living with first-class care in this gorgeous two-story, 60 unit community featuring Studio, One and Two Bedroom floorplans. Our residents are provided meals, transportation, laundry services and housekeeping. They have access to the full campus and will receive additional support and care as needed.

Address: 2851 N Boulder Canyon, Mesa, AZ 85207

Phone: (480) 948-0700

Written by Brian B

Paying For Senior Care: 5 Payment Options

Paying For Senior Care

Paying for quality senior care can be expensive, especially without a large amount of savings. Luckily, though, there are several alternative ways to pay for care beyond dipping into your personal accounts. Here are five of the best ways to pay for expenses associated with a retirement community.

Ways To Pay For Senior Care

  • Rent Your Home
  • Long-Term Care Insurance Policy
  • Veteran’s Benefits
  • Life Insurance
  • Pooling Assets

Rent Your Home

The family home is a sacred place with a ton of memories stored inside. For many seniors, selling a home you’ve lived in for decades is very tough. Thankfully, an alternative option is becoming more and more popular for those who could use extra money to help pay for care. Renting your home is certainly an option in today’s marketplace. Renting a home and using the rental income to help pay for living expenses is a great option. It’s an idea that will help ease the financial burden but also keep the home in the family’s name. Leave the landlord duties to someone else, as you can always hire a service to manage the property.

Long-Term Care Insurance Policy

Consider yourself lucky if you or a loved one purchased a long-term care policy. These insurance policies do apply to assisted living communities. Based on mental or physical diagnosis, though, some policies may be specified for nursing home care only. Make sure you know everything about your long-term care insurance policy before purchase.

Veteran’s Benefits

Veteran’s benefits will cover residential care in a few different situations. You will be covered if you or your loved one has service-related disabilities or injuries. Aid and attendance benefits are also available to any disabled veteran who has an income below a certain amount. Going through the Veteran’s Administration to receive these benefits may be the toughest part about this option. This can be a very complicated and time-consuming process to collect the benefits you deserve.

Life Insurance

Most people, elderly or not, purchase life insurance with beneficiaries in mind. With that said, there are policies that can be applied toward “living benefits.” Some policies will not offer living benefits if the policy holder is not terminally ill, but some other policies will do such a thing. If your policy is one that does not offer living benefits, there is always an option to sell the policy to a third-party company. This company can then buy back the policy for up to 75% of its face value. Monthly premiums will be handled by the third party, yet the company will receive full value of the policy when the original policyholder passes away.

Pooling Assets

When a loved one enters independent, assisted or even a memory care living arrangement, the financial burden can sometimes be on the family. For large families, though, there are ways to split up expenses without sacrificing your own future. If some family members are busy each and every day caring for the senior citizen, then perhaps instead of time other family members could help with expenses. A family pooling together assets and resources to work as a team can help ease the burden on everyone during a difficult time.

Assisted Living Facilities in Arizona

Check out our independent living facilities in Arizona below:

Sedona Winds

Sedona Winds is an assisted living facility in Sedona, AZ. Sedona Winds offers activities at their facilities for its residents. We provide activities that allow residents to keep a healthy lifestyle by socializing with their peers and encouraging motion. Sedona Winds beautiful Assisted Living Community offers large studio & one-bedroom apartments with ample space for our resident’s belongings.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Desert Winds

Desert Winds is an assisted living community in Peoria, AZ. Our facility is a large sized assisted living community with 88 units. Communities this size usually offer one-bedroom apartments, multiple care levels, restaurant style dining, and a robust resident development program. Desert Winds wonderful Assisted Living Community offers large studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments with adequate space for our resident’s possessions.

Address: 20554 N 101st Ave, Peoria, AZ 85382

Phone: (623) 362-1200

Chaparral Winds

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds is a unique assisted living located on the border of Sun City and Youngtown, AZ. Each roomy apartment comes with a walk-in closet, a patio or balcony, ample storage and a kitchenette with a full-size refrigerator. Our three-story assisted living facility is built between a lovely courtyard and a crystal-clear swimming pool. Life is destined to be lived at Ventana winds.

Address: 12322 N 113th Ave, Youngtown, AZ 85363

Phone: (623) 583-2460

Canyon Winds

Canyon Winds is an attractive assisted living community in Mesa, AZ. Residents revel in upscale living with first-class care in this gorgeous two-story, 60 unit community featuring Studio, One and Two Bedroom floorplans. Our residents are provided meals, transportation, laundry services and housekeeping. They have access to the full campus and will receive additional support and care as needed.

Address: 2851 N Boulder Canyon, Mesa, AZ 85207

Phone: (480) 948-0700

Written by webtechs

Cost Of Assisted Living In Arizona

Cost Of Assisted Living In Arizona

The average cost of assisted living in the state of Arizona is $3,000 per month, with a range of prices between $1,500-$6,000, according to SLS Communities. Total costs of assisted living services will very much depend on the quality of the facility and location.

Assisted Living Costs

There are many costs associated with an assisted living facility, and these options tend to be more expensive than independent living communities. So, what costs can you plan for when choosing assisted living? Many assisted living communities across Arizona will require a move-in fee, which serves as a prorated monthly fee. This cost will run from $1,000 to $5,000, according to WhereYouLiveMatters.

Costs will usually be broken down into two categories: rent and services. Services will include meals and snacks throughout the day, as well as housekeeping, transportation and a variety of scheduled activities. Some communities will offer rent and services together as one package. Packages can often be tailored to a resident’s exact needs and requirements, ranging from activities to healthcare.

AssistedLiving shows that Arizona is currently the second most affordable state to retire in. Florida ranks as the cheapest state to retire in, with Ohio ranked third. California and Washington are two of the most expensive states for senior living.

Assisted Living Costs Arizona

Here is a list of typical costs in several Arizona cities, according to SLS Communities:

  • Phoenix: $3,500 per month
  • Tucson: $3,695
  • Mesa: $3,150
  • Chandler: $3,600
  • Scottsdale: $4,800 
  • Glendale: $2,461 
  • Gilbert: $2,487 
  • Peoria: $2,948 
  • Surprise: $3,250 
  • Sun City: $3,150
  • Sun City West: $5,477
  • Sedona: $4,005
  • Youngtown: $3,293

Assisted Living Facilities in Arizona

Check out our independent living facilities in Arizona below:

Sedona Winds

Sedona Winds is an assisted living facility in Sedona, AZ. Sedona Winds offers activities at their facilities for its residents. We provide activities that allow residents to keep a healthy lifestyle by socializing with their peers and encouraging motion. Sedona Winds beautiful Assisted Living Community offers large studio & one-bedroom apartments with ample space for our resident’s belongings.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Desert Winds

Desert Winds is an assisted living community in Peoria, AZ. Our facility is a large sized assisted living community with 88 units. Communities this size usually offer one-bedroom apartments, multiple care levels, restaurant style dining, and a robust resident development program. Desert Winds wonderful Assisted Living Community offers large studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments with adequate space for our resident’s possessions.

Address: 20554 N 101st Ave, Peoria, AZ 85382

Phone: (623) 362-1200

Chaparral Winds

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds is a unique assisted living located on the border of Sun City and Youngtown, AZ. Each roomy apartment comes with a walk-in closet, a patio or balcony, ample storage and a kitchenette with a full-size refrigerator. Our three-story assisted living facility is built between a lovely courtyard and a crystal-clear swimming pool. Life is destined to be lived at Ventana winds.

Address: 12322 N 113th Ave, Youngtown, AZ 85363

Phone: (623) 583-2460

Canyon Winds

Canyon Winds is an attractive assisted living community in Mesa, AZ. Residents revel in upscale living with first-class care in this gorgeous two-story, 60 unit community featuring Studio, One and Two Bedroom floorplans. Our residents are provided meals, transportation, laundry services and housekeeping. They have access to the full campus and will receive additional support and care as needed.

Address: 2851 N Boulder Canyon, Mesa, AZ 85207

Phone: (480) 948-0700

Best Retirement Gifts
Written by Brian B

8 Best Retirement Gifts

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed a lot of things in our world, but it shouldn’t alter the way you give gifts to those heading into retirement. Sure, social distancing still applies, yet retirees will still look forward to relaxing and spending time with loved ones. Here are 8 of the best retirement gift ideas for your co-worker, friend or boss.

Gift Ideas For Retirement

Here is a quick list of retirement gifts, perfect for a new transition in life:

  • Gold Pocket Watch
  • Acoustic Guitar
  • Exercise Bike
  • Set Of Golf Clubs
  • Champagne Bucket
  • Engraved Trophy
  • Personalized Coffee Mug
  • Memory Books

Gold Pocket Watch

The gold pocket watch remains the gold standard for retirement gifts. Of course, this sort of gift should go to someone extremely special. Perhaps it’s a boss who gave you the opportunity of a lifetime or a best friend who made the workday fly by. Gold pocket watches can be expensive, but the good news is there are so many options on the market today. You will be able to find a watch that fits your budget.

Acoustic Guitar

Retirement offers ample time to start up new hobbies or jump back into old ones that never came to fruition. An acoustic guitar can offer the best of both worlds for many busy executives looking to stay productive in retirement. Learning to play the guitar is a perfect hobby later on in life.

Exercise Bike

Health and wellness are key as one moves on in life. When someone retirees, they are often presented with bottles of booze, chocolate and plenty of other goodies. Make your gift stand out by balancing out all those sugars and sweets. An exercise bike can help keep your co-worker happy and healthy for the rewarding journey to come!

Set Of Golf Clubs

How about wrapping health, wellness and hobbies all into one package? Buying that special someone a brand new set of golf clubs will encourage them to hit the links consistently. Golfing on a regular basis will act as a workout, develop skills and invite social interaction at the same time. It’s no wonder why golf is often a retirees’ hobby of choice!

Champagne Bucket

Nothing says sit back and relax quite like a classy champagne bucket. Retirement offers plenty of time to enjoy a glass of wine or champagne as the day winds down. The best thing about most champagne buckets one can buy is the option to personalize the gift by writing a message that can be displayed on the outside of the bucket.

Engraved Trophy

Finishing out a rewarding professional career is quite an accomplishment. Make sure this achievement doesn’t go unnoticed! An engraved trophy featuring the dates one started a career or tenure at the company can offer a lighthearted and comical moment at the retirement party.

Personalized Coffee Mug

Yes, your boss or co-worker may have had a personalized coffee mug throughout their career, but this mug will take on a whole new meaning. Mark the beginning of a new journey with a personalized coffee mug for the recent retiree. Personalize the mug with a signature retirement saying or maybe one of his/her favorite catchphrases. Either way, this gift will be a hit!

Memory Books

Think of how many memories, professional and personal, the new retiree must have stored in the memory bank. Retirement offers the perfect time to reflect and be thankful all the gifts the past has brought. A memory book full of souvenirs or photos can be an outstanding gift for a boss, co-worker or friend moving on to the next chapter in life.

More Retirement Gift Ideas

Retirement Gifts

36 Best Retirement Gifts

The Best Gifts For Retirees 

Chaparral Winds Is An Independent Living Facility In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful independent living facility near Surprise, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Independent Living Facility offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16617 N West-Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 544-4777

What To Do After Retirement | Hobbies For Seniors
Written by Brian B

What To Do After Retirement: Hobbies For Seniors

After you’ve worked nearly your entire adult life, retirement finally offers the opportunity to pursue many different activities, hobbies and challenges. Whether you are looking to travel, catch up with old friends or start a new professional venture, this is a list of ten suggestions for what to do after retirement.

Retirement Hobbies

Here are a few ideas for new retirees looking to fill their once-hectic schedules:

  • Volunteer
  • Get a part-time job
  • Travel
  • Spend quality time with loved ones
  • Write a blog
  • Read more
  • Play an instrument
  • Exercise
  • Move to a new place
  • Learn a new language

1. Volunteer

Volunteering tends to give all retirees satisfaction. You can socialize and give back, all while supporting your surrounding community. There are always many chances to volunteer through social groups or churches in most areas. VolunteerMatch is a great resource for those seeking volunteer opportunities.

2. Get A Part-Time Job

If you like the idea of volunteering but want to make some cash while putting in the hours, then consider getting a part-time job. Working a few hours per week can help achieve some socializing needs, and even may expand your business knowledge.

3. Travel

Retirement is the perfect time to get out and explore. Take an RV across the United States or fly overseas. Perhaps you may want to re-visit some of your favorite vacation spots. Whatever your traveling needs are, make sure to scratch that itch during this valuable time in your life.

4. Spend Quality Time With Loved Ones

This is the most important element of retirement. Days should no longer be dominated by work. Instead, fill your days with a plethora of family time. Reconnect with old friends or co-workers by visiting them monthly or weekly.

5. Write A Blog

We all know retirees have already garnered a lifetime of memories. Therefore, they will have a lot to say or pass on to the younger generation. Consider writing blogs online for others to read. This is another great way to stay in touch with people, while spreading knowledge and insight.

6. Read More

Of course, you can help develop those writing skills by reading more. Reading is a favorite hobby for retirees looking to unwind at night or maybe even find some motivation in the early mornings. Joining a book club could be a fun and worthwhile investment, as well.

7. Play An Instrument

Retirement is a great time to pick up things you were too busy for during your career. Maybe learning a new instrument was once pushed off because of limited time. Now is the perfect moment to make up for lost time and begin this new venture.

8. Exercise

Exercising is never a bad thing. But when it comes to retirees, it is essential. Long walks in the mornings or evenings can do wonders for the mind and body. Hiking, joking and riding a bicycle can also prove invaluable in one’s daily routine.

9. Move To A New Place

Most retirees have lived in one area or one home for a long time during their working days. Shaking things up is a common move for retirees looking to break longstanding routines. Invest in a winter home in a different area or move to a placed you’ve longed to call home.

10. Learn A New Language

It’s never too late to learn something new. Most of us haven’t studied a second language since high school, and chances are we don’t remember much at all. Freshen up by diving into a new language today. This is a great way to keep your mind active.

Chaparral Winds Is An Independent Living Facility In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful independent living facility near Surprise, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Independent Living Facility offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16617 N West-Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 544-4777

Written by webtechs

Assisted Living for Disabled Adults

An Assisted Living Facility may be the answer for a senior with mental & physical disabilities, since it can provide the degree of help required, allowing the resident to maintain as much independence as possible. A residential care home may be another option, especially if the home specializes in serving seniors with disabilities and is suited to provide the level of care your loved one needs.

In accordance to Title II of the American Disabilities Act (ADA) that was passed in 1990 stipulates equal housing opportunities for those with disabilities at state and local levels. Since the ADA was passed, housing and housing alternatives have improved and increased dramatically for people with disabilities. There are many kinds of disabilities impacting people in varying ways and to different degrees. Disabilities generally fall into 4 categories:

  • Mental illness affects people’s behaviors, thinking and their emotional state.
  • Physical disability affects a person physically usually leading to problems with mobility.
  • Intellectual disabilities cause difficulties in socializing learning and retaining information.
  • Sensory disabilities affect the senses and include blindness, hearing loss and Autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Out of these categories, commonly only two will impact housing needs – physical and sensory. The ADA has made a huge impact on the lives of the handicapped and disabled senior, guaranteeing that entrances into a lot of senior housing options now include ramps and handrails and those that have multiple stories have elevators. As a result, the best-assisted living options housing for disabled adults and handicapped adults alike include:

1. Assisted Living Facilities

– Sometimes referred to as supported care facilities, gives care to those with disabilities who are unable to live independently, usually needing assistance with (activities of daily living) ADL. A lot of them offer private and semi-private apartment-style living usually including a living area and kitchenette.

2. Independent Living Facilities

– Independent Living is available for those who can live on their own or with a roommate. They will need some support such as assistance with budgets, shopping for food, meal planning and preparation, household maintenance, safety, and health monitoring.

3. Boarding Home

– Boarding Homes provide care for individuals who can’t live alone but aren’t ready for a nursing home. This home provides bathing, help with dressing, housekeeping, meals planning and preparation, and transportation. Depending upon location, Medicaid will cover some expenses. State and federal programs help to finance the rent for its residents.

4. Group Home

– Group homes are usually either private, nonprofit facilities or operated by local governments. Privately run group homes don’t have government supervision unless they receive funding from the government. A nonprofit or government-run facility will follow certain rules and regulations and determines who receives the services.

5. Alternative Family Living

– Alternative Family Living Arrangement (AFL) is an out of a home setting where the person receives 24-hour care and lives in a private home environment with a family in which the services are provided to address the care and habilitation needs of the person.

6. Accessory Dwelling Units

– also called to as accessory apartments, secondary units, or granny flats. Accessory dwelling units are an additional living space on single-family lots that are independent of the primary housing. The separate living spaces usually have a kitchen and bathroom and are either attached or detached from the main residence. Assistance may be provided by the main residence.

7. Living With Family

– Some people with disabilities can live in their own homes or apartments but need assistance with certain activities like cooking, cleaning, and shopping. If there are no family caregivers or other volunteers available, outside assistance may be necessary. Home healthcare agencies are a resource that can provide these services.

8. Section 8 Housing

– This program allows people to rent safe, decent, affordable housing in a community. The official name is Housing Choice Vouchers Program. Local Public Housing Agencies (PHA) or the local municipal public housing agencies manage the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8). The Section 8 program will only provide rental assistance. Although Section 8 vouchers apply for payment to assisted living facilities, they can’t pay for services or meals.

According to SpecialNeedsAnswers, “The Section 8 program provides vouchers for people with low incomes to obtain housing in the community”.

9. Nursing Homes

– If a person with special needs requires 24/ 7 medical care, they may need to live in a skilled nursing facility if it’s not possible to provide that care at home. Even though nursing homes are a last resort for a lot of families, in some cases they can be the most suitable option for a person with severe special needs. Because there is continual supervision of care and the person’s family members don’t have to spend their time caring for their loved one.

10. Subsidized Housing

– Subsidized Housing offers additional services to its disabled residents. Services are room cleaning, laundry services, and shopping. Subsidized housing is found within apartment complexes and is available for those who have low to moderate incomes. The monthly rent is on a sliding scale. State and federal programs help to finance the rent for residents.

Sources:

  1. Younger AdultsGroup Homes and Assisted Living for the Young Adult.” AssistedLivingFacilities.org – Your Assisted Living Resource, https://www.assistedlivingfacilities.org/resources/who-lives-in-assisted-living-/younger-adults/.
  2. Housing Options for Adults with Special Needs.” SpecialNeedsAnswers, 1 Feb. 2015, https://specialneedsanswers.com/housing-options-for-adults-with-special-needs-14975.

Chaparral Winds is an Assisted Living Facility in Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living facility near Surprise, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living Facility offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Written by webtechs

How Much Does Assisted Living Cost?

How Much Does Assisted Living Cost?

The answer is, it all depends on the community, the apartment size, the number of services you require and what area of the country you live in.

The average cost of assisted living in the US is $4,000 per month, that comes out to around $133 per day and totals $48,000 per year for 2019 according to the Genworth Cost of Care Survey 2017.

Assisted Living Cost Per Day

The average assisted living cost per day is about $133 per day according to an article by Where You Live Matters. They compare the cost of assisted living to a private room in a nursing home which costs about $278 per day.

Assisted Living Cost Per Month

According to SeniorLiving.org, the average assisted living cost per month is about $4,000 per month. Their article states the the cost of assisted living increased 2.9% from 2015 to 2016. Assisted living costs are expected to increase from 2019 to 2020 as well. According to PharMerica, “One report predicted 6-8% overall increases in construction costs for the senior living market in 2019“.

Assisted Living Cost Per Year

The average assisted living cost per year is about $48,000 per year. According to Retirement Living, “the cost of an assisted living facility is $45,000 a year, with a proposed five-year annual growth projection of 3 percent, according to the 2017 Cost of Care Survey by Genworth Financial Inc.

What is Included in an Assisted Living Monthly Fee?

Many assisted living communities offer a wide variety of amenities and general services that are included in the monthly fee. They usually include:

  • An apartment or suite thoughtfully designed to keep our residents safe and free from falls.
  • Emergency call system in the apartments and/ or an emergency call pendant option.
  • Wellness programs and senior-friendly exercise activities.
  • A calendar full of life enriching programs to participate in daily.
  • Nutritious, chef-prepared meals served in the dining room, restaurant-style.
  • Basic cable TV, utilities.
  • Maintenance, housekeeping, and laundry services.
  • Transportation services for community outings, errands or appointments.

Assisted Living Cost by State

Alabama: $2,900

Alaska: $5,750

Arizona: $3,500

Arkansas: $3,133

California: $4,000

Colorado: $4,063

Connecticut: $4,950

Delaware: $5,368

DC: $6,700

Florida: $3,045

Georgia: $2,850

Hawaii: $4,125

Idaho: $3,200

Illinois: $3,898

Indiana: $3,528

Iowa: $3,518

Kansas: $3,863

Kentucky: $3,300

Louisiana: $3,155

Maine: $4,991

Maryland: $3,750

Massachusetts: $5,463

Michigan: $3,563

Minnesota: $3,200

Mississippi: $3,200

Missouri: $2,537

Montana: $3,513

Nebraska: $3,510

Nevada: $3,050

New Hampshire: $3,600

New Jersey: $4,950

New Mexico: $3,600

New York: $ 4,136

North Carolina: $3,000

North Dakota: $3,340

Ohio: $3,600

Oklahoma: $2,803

Oregon: $4,065

Pennsylvania: $3,600

Rhode Island: $4,931

South Carolina: $3,000

South Dakota: $3,370

Tennessee: $3,780

Texas: $3,515

Utah: $2,950

Vermont: $4,860

Virginia: $3,950

Washington: $4,500

West Virginia: $3,263

Wisconsin: $3,934

Wyoming: $3,995

Help with Assisted Living Costs

Paying for assisted living costs may seem overwhelming for a lot of people. Most seniors turn to assisted living once they start to need help. It can be difficult to acquire a new health insurance policy at this point to help in covering these costs. However, when possible, it’s a good idea to always purchase health insurance policies that offer coverage for assisted living care and long-term care. A lot of insurance policies do provide this coverage, and this usually is the least expensive option.

Paying Out of Pocket

It is very common for individuals to pay a little of the cost of assisted living care out of their pocket. While some pay all of the cost out of pocket. This can come from investments, retirement accounts, savings accounts, or other sources of income.

Veterans Assistance

Under some circumstances, the Veteran’s Aid and Attendance Pension may be a source of help for paying for assisted living care. Those who qualify are required to have under $80,000 in assets. This program can pay out a considerable sum per month to assist in covering these costs. Veterans programs – both state and federal level programs – aside from this may also be of assistance.

Medicaid

Medicaid provides a financial tool for seniors to pay for assisted living if they satisfy income requirements. These qualifications differ from state to state. Nevertheless, a lot of seniors will be approved for the program.

Medicare

Depending on the type of advantage plan that a senior has, this may include long-term care options. These are independent, paid-out-of-pocket programs. Medicare itself does not pay for the room and board or any non-medical services for the senior. If they have Original Medicare, it doesn’t provide coverage for assisted living. If they have an extended advantage plan, consult that plan particularly to learn the amount and type of coverage that is available to them.

Are Assisted Living Cost Tax Deductible?

Yes, some of the cost or all of the costs of assisted living may be tax deductible. According to SeniorLivingResidences, “In order to take advantage of deductions, a taxpayer must be entitled to itemize his or her deductions. Additionally, long-term care services and other unreimbursed medical expenses must exceed 7.5% of the taxpayer’s adjusted gross income. (Generally, a taxpayer can deduct the medical care expenses of his or her parent if the taxpayer provides more than 50% of the parent’s support costs.)”. Long Term care services can be tax deductible on Schedule A as unreimbursed medical expenses.

Residents must quality as chronically ill or unable to perform 2 or more daily living activities without assistance. For example, those who cannot bath or dress themselves would qualify for the tax deduction. According to SLR’s article, “The Assisted Living resident must have been certified within the previous 12 months as “chronically ill” by a licensed health care practitioner”.

Is There Assisted Living Near Me?

Almost every state has numerous assisted living communities available. To find one close to home, use the seniorlivging database. This directory makes it easier for you to find assisted living communities located across the state and community you live in. almosts every area will offer a couple of choices for seniors including some for those that have limited budgets, special needs, or specific wishes in programming and services available.

Sources:

  1. 2019 Assisted Living Costs & Pricing by State: Monthly & Annual Costs.” SeniorLiving.org, 12 July 2019, https://www.seniorliving.org/assisted-living/costs/.
  2. How Much Does Assisted Living Cost?: Where You Live Matters.” ASHA, 8 May 2019, https://www.whereyoulivematters.org/how-much-does-assisted-living-cost/.

Chaparral Winds is an Assisted Living Facility in Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living facility near Surprise, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living Facility offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Written by webtechs

Senior Living Surprise

If you are searching for Senior Living in Surprise, Arizona, Chaparral Winds can help. We offer assisted living, independent living, and memory care services.

Chaparral Winds Retirement Community is simply more than just another retirement community. Chaparral Winds Retirement Community offers Independent Living, Assisted Living & Memory Care. We are located in Surprise, Arizona. Our Community offers a lot options to meet or exceed all of your needs. We are closely located next to everything you may need, including sensational shopping, 5 star restaurants, a plethora of golf courses, cultural centers, sports stadiums, and medical offices all within a couple of miles.

Assisted Living In Surprise, AZ

Assisted living is for seniors who appreciate their independence, but may need some help with day to day activities like bathing, dressing themselves, transportation to appointments and medication notices. Seniors can live in their own apartments or with an associate and are freed of household duties like laundry, meal preparation, and cleaning.

Learn more about assisted living in Surprise

Independent Living In Surprise, AZ

Independent Living is for seniors who can to live on their own in an apartment or home, but want the benefits of living in a community that provides services and conveniences such as housework, social interactions, dining, and transportation.  Seniors are free to come and go as they please and enjoy a retirement lifestyle they crave without the challenges and obligations of owning a home.

Learn more about independent living in Surprise

Memory Care In Surprise, AZ

Memory Care at Chaparral Winds is committed to those with memory loss. All caregivers are specially trained to provide the individual attention required by that suffering memory loss. Regular, stimulating activities that are designed to improve the quality of life of the residents are provided each day in a caring, safe environment. One of the main objectives of memory care is to help decrease the advancement of Alzheimer’s disease or dementia while also letting a senior to feel meaningful, a sense of fulfillment and enjoyment on a day to day basis.

Learn more about memory care in Surprise

Chaparral Winds Retirement Community Is Located In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is located at 16623 NW Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374 near the corner of Bell Rd. and NW Point Pkwy. Get in touch with us to schedule a tour at one of our facilities.

Chaparral Winds Offers The Finest Retirement Living In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a retirement facility in Surprise, Arizona offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. For more information about our senior living facility, SLS Communities or to schedule a tour, please call us today at 623-471-5086.

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