Picking the right senior living community isn’t just about location. It’s about finding a place where you can enjoy the retirement lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of. And for many seniors, that means fun activities, freedom, and top-of-the-line amenities.
That’s why more people are opting for high-end senior care communities over traditional assisted living as they make the transition from home care environments. These luxury communities offer a distinctly different day-to-day experience, featuring enhanced support and exceptional wellness amenities.
Here’s what you need to know.
What Defines Traditional Assisted Living?
Assisted living communities bridge the gap between independent living and nursing homes. Traditionally, they focus on providing basic care services on an as-needed basis, such as:
- Help with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing and getting dressed
- Nutritious meals
- Medication management
Residents have access to housing, including basic rooms or small apartments, which they can fill with their own belongings. They also have access to standard amenities and programming, such as(pools are very unusual typically) , a small fitness center and a few recreational classes.
Traditional assisted living communities typically have lower staff-to-resident ratios. Some places may have as many as 15 to 20 residents for every staff member. These employees often lack the resources to provide personalized care to everyone, so they prioritize safety and functionality.
What Sets Luxury Assisted Living Apart?
Luxury senior living communities go the extra mile to support their residents and enrich their lives.
It all starts as soon as you walk through the doors. These communities typically feature designer interiors that are reminiscent of high-end resorts. You’ll enjoy an upscale private residence, which may include a patio, a beautiful kitchen, and other thoughtful details.
You can also expect luxury amenities designed to support your emotional, mental, and physical well-being. Here are a few common offerings:
- Concierge services
- Curated wellness programs that fit your interests
- Fitness studios with high-tech equipment and personal trainers
- Fine dining with rotating menus
- Spas and hair stylists to help you look your best
- Swimming pools
- Theaters, game rooms, and other entertainment spaces
On-site medical care is another feature of luxury assisted living communities. They often have physical and occupational clinics and visiting primary care doctors. That way, you don’t have to worry about traveling to appointments.
Plus, these communities have higher staff-to-resident ratios. Seniors receive personalized care plans and more one-on-one attention than traditional assisted living facilities can typically offer.
Comparing the Day-to-Day Experience
While luxury amenities are always nice, it’s the everyday experience that truly sets luxury retirement communities apart. Here are some of the biggest differences between these communities and traditional assisted living.
Lifestyle Enrichment
Traditional assisted living services typically include basic activities, such as yoga classes and movie nights. However, these activities might not suit everyone’s interests or be available every day.
Conversely, luxury retirement communities offer more elevated and frequent entertainment. They usually have full calendars of classes and events. Art workshops, book clubs, and wine nights — there are countless opportunities to stay active and engaged. Plus, you can go on frequent excursions to local attractions like beaches and museums.
Dining Experience
Even if you love cooking, you probably don’t want to do it every day. At a traditional assisted living community, you can expect cafeteria-style service with basic meals. Meanwhile, a luxury community usually provides chef-prepared meals in a restaurant-style setting. The staff may also mix up the menu with themed dinner nights and special weekend brunches.
Wellness and Health Services
Holistic care is a top priority at luxury retirement communities. They focus on supporting every aspect of health with fitness classes, social events, and other amenities.
They also frequently use advanced technology and therapies. For example, Vivante is the only community to partner with Hoag Neurosciences Institute to provide on site medical care and physical and occupational therapy on site.
Of course, traditional communities also care about wellness. However, they usually only offer basic health services. This might include driving residents to off-site appointments and managing their medications.
Resident Autonomy
High-end communities empower seniors to enjoy retirement to the fullest. Every resident gets tailored support, so they receive all the assistance they need — and nothing they don’t.
And with amenities like community excursions and complimentary housekeeping, residents have more variety and freedom than in traditional assisted living settings.
Why Families Are Choosing High-End Senior Living Like Vivante
Vivante offers luxury assisted living at its best. Here are four reasons why seniors and their families choose our communities:
- Hospitality is everything: We go above and beyond to keep our residents comfortable and happy. With our attentive staff and resort-like environment, you’ll feel right at home — or, better yet, like you’re on vacation.
- Elevated safety and attention: Your loved ones will have peace of mind knowing that our staff is always available to help.
- Active community: We’re proud to have a vibrant community of highly engaged residents. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to socialize and make lasting friendships.
- Vitality program: Our holistic wellness program supports healthy aging. Exercise your mind with brain games, creative workshops, and music therapy. You can also get your heart pumping in fitness classes led by experienced trainers.
Explore our testimonials to learn more about what our residents love about Vivante. For example, Art S. says, “The Vitality cultural activities are fascinating.” For Irene L., dining is the biggest perk: “The food is so good, I don’t have to cook anymore!”
Enjoy a More Vibrant Retirement
Both traditional and high-end senior care communities offer a range of essential amenities. However, luxury communities like Vivante provide more fulfilling experiences that truly support every aspect of wellness.
See the difference for yourself! Contact us today to schedule a tour or explore our Newport Center and Newport Mesa communities.
