Archbishop's web site Denver Catholic Register Parishes Catholic Pastoral Center
August 7, 2002
Sense of community important when considering retirement housing
Consider neighborhood and amenities when selecting housing
By Sharon Roulier
A senior resident of Providence Place at Ingleside in Holyoke, Mass., was relieved one Sunday morning when she awoke and looked out her window to witness a carpet of newly fallen snow.
Snow and other inclement weather is not normally associated with "relief," but the woman did not have to "brave the elements" on this particular morning, said Sister of Providence Margaret McCleary, director of resident programs at Providence Place, a retirement community for seniors with active lifestyles.
Nestled on a beautiful hillside overlooking the Connecticut River, this unique apartment building provides residents with a serene environment. Its magnificent Byzantine-style chapel welcomes people of all faiths.
When she saw the snow, Sister McCleary recalled, the woman said, "I was so grateful to be able to just go down the elevator to Mass with all the people I live with. And when I came back from Mass, I looked out the window and someone was cleaning off my car."
Sister McCleary said that the retirement community, which served as the motherhouse of the Sisters of Providence of Holyoke before opening its doors to independent seniors, believes that a strong sense of community is important when one considers options in senior living.
"Community happens not just by living together," said Sister McCleary. "It happens when people share life experiences, chat over a cup of coffee, get together to play cards or to enjoy a meal, participate in religious or spiritual programs together, and before one realizes it, friendships are formed, trust deepens and community happens. Relationship is the key to all this."
"All of these experiences," she noted, "simple as they may be but rooted in values or respect, compassion, hope, prayer and community, enhance the personal life of the people who live here, both sisters and laity."
Many older adults may become overwhelmed faced with the decision about moving to a retirement community setting. And the choices can seem confusing.
When thinking of making a change, the American Association of Retired Persons urges seniors to know their preferences, their level of need for assistance and their financial resources to help in narrowing the choices.
The AARP suggests that seniors and their families consider the following questions when searching for a retirement community:
•Does the residence have the style of living you desire (private apartment, private room, private bath)?
•Does it have the level of comfort you desire (equipment, electronics, garden areas, space for entertaining or hobbies, windows)?
•Does the community provide meals? Are the quality and quantity of meals adequate? Does the food style suit your tastes, nutritional requirements and cultural preferences?
•Are the social interactions and recreational programs appealing?
•Is it in a safe neighborhood?
•Is it convenient for shopping, doctor's visits, religious services and social contacts?
•Is it reasonably close to your adult children's homes?
•Is public or private transportation provided or easily accessible?
•What do current residents or their relatives say about their care?
•Are doors and locks secure, is there someone on duty 24 hours a day and is there an emergency-call service?
•Is the facility currently licensed and operating legally?
•How are rate increases handled?
•Can you bring your own furniture?
The bottom line is that seniors have many housing possibilities. Learn about those choices and consider alternatives when making this most significant life change. - CNS
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