Do continuing care retirement communities offer pickleball?

by Bruce Rosenblatt | Jan 2, 2025 | Blog

Yes, Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) often offer pickleball as part of their recreational and wellness programs. CCRCs are designed to provide a range of care options, from independent living to assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing, all within one community. Because many CCRCs prioritize the health and well-being of their residents, they often include amenities that encourage physical activity and social engagement, and pickleball fits that criteria perfectly.

Here’s why pickleball is commonly available in CCRCs:

Active Lifestyle: Since many CCRCs cater to seniors who are still able to live independently or semi-independently, they tend to offer a variety of activities to keep residents active and engaged. Pickleball is especially popular in these communities because it’s easy on the joints, yet provides a great cardiovascular workout and promotes mobility.
Wellness Focus: CCRCs usually have a strong focus on wellness and holistic health. This includes offering fitness programs, outdoor activities, and sports like pickleball, which encourage physical exercise and social interaction.
Socialization: Pickleball is a great way for residents to meet others, socialize, and stay mentally sharp, which are important aspects of life in a CCRC.
Adaptability: Many CCRCs have facilities that can adapt to various levels of physical ability. They may offer different levels of play, from casual matches to organized tournaments, and may even provide training or coaching for those new to the game.

Some examples of CCRC amenities where pickleball is commonly offered include:

Outdoor pickleball courts (sometimes shared with other recreational activities)
Indoor courts for all-weather play
Pickleball leagues or tournaments for residents to compete or socialize

To find a CCRC that offers pickleball, it’s best to inquire directly with the community you’re interested in to confirm what recreational activities they provide. Many larger, more upscale CCRCs are likely to have pickleball courts, given the popularity of the sport.

For more information, please go to: www.seniorhousingsolutions.net

Local Resources for Seniors and Their Families in Fort Myers

by Bruce Rosenblatt | Dec 16, 2024 | Blog

Fort Myers, FL, is home to a variety of resources that offer valuable services and support for seniors and their families. These resources help seniors maintain their independence, health, and well-being while ensuring that families have the guidance and assistance they need. Here are some of the key local resources available for seniors in Fort Myers:

1. Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida (AAASWFL)

Services: The AAASWFL provides information and referral services, caregiver support, meal programs, health and wellness resources, and financial assistance for seniors.
Contact: 239-652-6900 | Website

2. Lee County Senior Services

Services: Lee County Senior Services offers a variety of programs for seniors, including transportation, meal services (such as Meals on Wheels), caregiver support, and health screenings. They also offer educational classes and activities to help seniors stay active and engaged.
Contact: 239-533-7044 | Website

3. Senior Friendship Health Center

Services: Located in Fort Myers, this health center provides primary care services for seniors, including wellness exams, preventive care, and chronic disease management.
Contact: 239-643-7800 | Website

4. Alzheimer’s Support Network

Services: The Alzheimer’s Support Network provides support for families and individuals affected by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, offering educational resources, support groups, respite care, and memory screenings.
Contact: 239-437-3007 | Website

5. Meals on Wheels of Lee County

Services: Meals on Wheels delivers nutritious, hot meals to homebound seniors in Lee County. They also provide wellness checks and foster social interaction for those who may be isolated.
Contact: 239-332-7662 | Website

6. Lee County Public Library – Senior Resources

Services: The Lee County Library offers a variety of services and programs for seniors, including educational programs, book clubs, and access to resources on aging, health, and wellness.
Contact: 239-533-4000 | Website

7. Fort Myers Senior Center

Services: The Fort Myers Senior Center provides a place for seniors to socialize, engage in activities, and access resources. Programs include exercise classes, arts and crafts, bingo, and educational workshops.
Contact: 239-321-7100 | Website

8. Florida Department of Elder Affairs

Services: The state’s Department of Elder Affairs offers resources for seniors in Florida, including information about long-term care, caregiver support, and services to help seniors live independently in their communities.
Contact: 850-414-2000 | Website

9. Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC)

Services: The ADRC provides information, referrals, and case management for seniors and people with disabilities. They assist with applying for Medicaid, food assistance, and other benefits.
Contact: 239-433-3900 | Website

10. Guardian ad Litem Program

Services: This program advocates for seniors who are at risk of abuse or exploitation, ensuring they are treated with dignity and respect in legal situations.
Contact: 239-533-7586 | Website

11. Southwest Florida Agency on Aging and Disability (SWFAAD)

Services: SWFAAD connects seniors with resources related to health care, housing, and community services in the Fort Myers area. They also provide options for seniors who need assistance with independent living.
Contact: 239-229-0449 | Website

12. Veterans Services (Lee County)

Services: Lee County offers programs and services for veterans, including help with benefits, healthcare, transportation to medical appointments, and veteran-specific community resources.
Contact: 239-533-8387 | Website

13. Elder Law Attorneys in Fort Myers

Services: Elder law attorneys can assist seniors with estate planning, Medicaid planning, guardianship, and other legal issues related to aging. Some law firms in Fort Myers offer free consultations or low-cost services for seniors.
Contact: You can find elder law attorneys in Fort Myers through The Florida Bar website here.

14. Hope Healthcare Services

Services: Hope Healthcare provides hospice care, grief counseling, and support for individuals and families dealing with end-of-life issues. They also offer a variety of services for caregivers, including respite care and support groups.
Contact: 239-482-4673 | Website

15. Lee Memorial Health System – Senior Services

Services: Lee Memorial Health System offers a wide range of senior-focused services, including health screenings, wellness programs, and rehabilitation services. They also offer resources for managing chronic conditions.
Contact: 239-343-1000 | Website

16. The Salvation Army – Senior Programs

Services: The Salvation Army offers programs for seniors, including meal programs, emergency assistance, social services, and opportunities for fellowship and support in the community.
Contact: 239-334-3745 | Website

17. The Neighborhood Health Clinic

Services: The Neighborhood Health Clinic provides medical care for low-income, uninsured seniors. They offer general healthcare services, specialty care, and diagnostic services.
Contact: 239-274-1517 | Website

18. Southwest Florida Regional Planning Council (SWFRPC)

Services: This council advocates for the aging population in Southwest Florida, offering resources and programs that enhance seniors’ quality of life, including transportation services and aging-in-place programs.
Contact: 239-338-2550 | Website

19. Naples Botanical Garden – Senior Programs

Services: The Naples Botanical Garden offers senior programs that encourage socialization, relaxation, and enjoying nature. They often host tours and events catered to seniors.
Contact: 239-643-7275 | Website

These resources in Fort Myers are designed to offer a broad range of services to help seniors live a fulfilling and independent life. Whether you’re looking for healthcare, social programs, legal assistance, or simply a place to connect with others, Fort Myers has a wealth of resources to support seniors and their families.

How to Negotiate with an Assisted Living Facility

by Bruce Rosenblatt | Sep 23, 2024 | Blog

HOW TO NEGOTIATE WITH ASSITED LIVING FACILTIES

The price isn’t always the price at a senior living community. Use these tips to help you get the best price.

1). Time is a leverage. If you are able to move sooner, rather than later, you might have some room to negotiate. Senior Living communities are businesses, and a vacant apartment is a non-revenue producing asset. A quick move-in is a good thing for a community. Conversely, if you are unsure of when you are able to move and/or planning for the future, you should not try to negotiate and wait until you are ready to make a decision.

2). Well-established communities may not have a need to negotiate, especially communities with long wait lists. You can always ask, however don’t be disappointed if you are told “no.”

3). Many things are negotiable, this includes rate locks, monthly fees, apartment upgrades, community fees, and even levels of care.

4). Usually, medical approval is non-negotiable. If someone is denied residency based on their health, it is highly rare that the community will negotiate acceptance.

5). Contractual terms are difficult to negotiate since any changes to the community’s residency agreement may involve corporate legal review.

6). Negotiations are a two-way street. Be prepared offer something on your end.

7). When negotiating, try to talk directly with the decision-maker.

8). Some communities have special incentives if you are able to move within a certain time frame. If you are in a position to make a decision, you should inquire about any current promotions.

9). Do not have a “take or leave it” attitude. The decision to move to this community is bigger than the incentive you are requesting.

10). Seek the advice of a professional. We have years of experience in this business and have relationships with most of the communities in our area and can help you get the best price possible. Contact us at www.seniorhousingsolutions.net to learn more.