FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions About Senior Living
Moving to independent living, assisted living, or memory care is a big step that requires research and understanding. Become familiar with senior living with our answers to some of the common questions new residents and family members have.
General Senior Living Questions
What is senior living?
Senior living is a concept that encompasses a range of housing and lifestyle options for aging persons adapted to the challenges of health issues associated with aging, such as limited mobility and susceptibility to illness.
What is a continuing care retirement community?
A continuing care retirement community is a place where you have access to multiple levels of care on a single campus such as independent living, assisted living and memory care.
How do we choose the right community?
Here are ways to choose the right community for you, your elder family member, relative, or friends:
- Determine your ideal location.
- Evaluate the benefits of community life.
- Find a price point that suits your budget.
- Determine your preference for amenities and services.
- Don’t forget to accommodate for future planning.
- Consider the viability of the organization.
How do we decide what is the most appropriate living situation?
Here are ways to decide the most appropriate living situation:
- Pay attention to cleanliness, curb appeal, and design details.
- Get to know caregivers and staff who provide daily support.
- Get a feel for the community’s culture, programming, and amenities by making an ocular visit.
- Come prepared with important and key cost questions.
- Ensure the community will meet both short-term and long-term needs.
What is the difference between a rental community and a buy in community?
A buy-in or entry fee community is typically a continuing care retirement community (CCRC). A CCRC offers at least three levels of care on one campus. Although there are rental CCRCs as well, in a buy-in situation you would need to move into independent living and pay an upfront fee in addition to your monthly fee.
How do we know it’s time for a retirement community?
Age is not the only factor that helps determine the answer. Although the average age in a retirement community is 84 years old, moving into a community greatly depends on the individual. Some people choose to move into a retirement community at a younger age, but a large majority make the transition between the ages of 75 and 84. The choice belongs to you. Being a part of a retirement community is a personal decision that will work for everyone in different stages. You may reach a point when you start to feel that day-to-day tasks are a struggle, and that’s when a retirement community could be a huge benefit to you and your loved ones. It may be the right time to make a transition if you feel you could use some help with: household chores, cooking, or showering.
The decision to transition from a family home to an independent living facility or retirement community is often difficult and emotional. When deciding whether to make the move, it’s important to consider a few factors.
Medical Needs
Are you dealing with any chronic conditions that need more frequent care than you are able to manage at home? Is your health declining and do you need help with medication management or other daily activities? If so, an independent living facility near you in Houston, Texas, or a retirement community may be the best option.
Financial Situation
Consider your financial situation as well as the lifestyle amenities offered by these types of communities. Independent living facilities and retirement communities typically include all the services and amenities needed for comfortable senior living, such as meals, housekeeping, transportation, social activities, on-site health care services, and more. They also offer monthly rent or fees, which can provide significant savings compared to owning your own home.
Quality of Life
Being around other seniors provides companionship and social opportunities while leaving less responsibility on family members who are far away. Independent living facilities can also provide access to exercise classes, cultural events, and leisurely activities tailored specifically for seniors.
Making the decision regarding whether or not it’s time for an independent living facility or retirement community depends mostly on your individual lifestyle needs and preferences. If you start considering any of the above factors, it may be time to start looking into senior living communities.
When can we tour?
You can tour the grounds whenever the property is open. Just give us a call to set up a tour with one of our leasing agents.
What is your policy for visitors?
Visitors of all ages are welcome. Visitors should check in at the front desk and sign in.
Can children visit family and friends at the village at proprietors green?
Yes, we welcome visitors including children, family, and friends!
My children are fairly young. Can I bring them to visit my loved ones?
Yes, you may! Visitors are encouraged and welcomed.
Can residents have cars?
Most certainly! Residents can have their cars.
How long can seniors live in that community?
They can age in place and add additional service or help as needed, when that time comes.
What is a luxury retirement community?
The Abbey is a luxury retirement community. If you are interested with our services and activities inside our community, you may visit our website for more information.
How do we decide which living situation is best?
You may visit our community and see what services are offered or what you may need. We offer a base rate and you can select other services according to your preference and that is a high-priority on your list of needs. This way you are not paying for unwanted extra services.
How do I see a retirement community for myself before committing to it?
You may do a virtual tour or an in person tour. If you have already decided to commit, you may contact us for more details.
Is it possible to do a “trial stay” at one of your communities?
Yes, we offer a respite or a trial stay in our community. It can range from a short stay to a 30 day period.
Are pets allowed?
For all fur parents, we do not allow pets to stay inside the community. We do allow your fur babies to come to the community to visit!
What services are on site in your community?
If you want to know more about our services in our community, you may browse our website for more info!
What size apartments do you have?
The Abbey apartments range from 350 sq ft- 725 sq ft.
Independent Living Questions
What is independent living?
Independent living is having opportunities to make decisions that affect your own life, such as being able to pursue activities of your own choosing — limited only in the same ways that one’s nondisabled neighbors are limited.
Independent living allows seniors to maintain their autonomy while receiving assistance and support with their everyday needs.
Independent living residences are typically age-restricted communities offering a variety of housing options, such as apartments, private cottages, or single-family homes. These communities provide communal amenities and recreational opportunities, such as fitness classes, game rooms, swimming pools, and much more.
Residents of independent living communities have access to on-site medical care and services like housekeeping and transportation. Facilities may also offer additional services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, and other types of medical care, depending on the facility’s policies. Additionally, many residences provide meal services that include delicious meals from the dining room or individual meal plan choices for those who prefer to eat on their own schedule.
How do I choose the right independent living community in Texas?
Finding the appropriate assisted residence or independent senior housing for yourself or a loved one can be an arduous task, but with proper research and planning, it is possible. When looking for an assisted residence or independent senior housing in Houston, Texas, consider the following factors to ensure you find the best accessible and affordable independent living community:
Cost
Before looking into assisted residences or independent senior housing in Houston, Texas, determine what you can afford. Be sure to look at any fees associated with these communities that are not covered by Medicare and Medicaid. In addition, ask the community about financial assistance options such as long-term care insurance or veterans’ benefits.
Location
Consider how close Houston assisted residences and independent senior housing are to family members so they can easily visit. Additionally, look into the neighborhood and nearby amenities to ensure your loved one will stay engaged while living independently.
Services Provided
Assisted residences and independent senior housing in Houston offer different services depending on the facility. Research ahead of time to determine which community offers activities such as yoga classes, gardening classes, art lessons, musical performances, and more that your loved one might enjoy.
Safety
Ensure that the assisted residence or independent senior housing you are considering has operational fire alarm systems and other safety measures like locked entrances and surveillance cameras that are constantly monitored by staff 24/7 for added security of all residents.
Reviews
Read reviews before committing to get a sense of their overall quality of care for existing residents as well as any issues that may have been reported via online sources like Google reviews.
With these criteria in mind, you will be able to find a home that meets all your needs while accommodating any special requirements during your search process, ensuring you select the right assisted residence or independent senior housing for yourself or a loved one in Houston, Texas!
How much does it cost to live in an independent living community in Houston?
According to SeniorHomes.com, the average cost of independent living in Houston is approximately $2,100 to $3,800 per month, depending on the apartment size and the amenities provided.
At The Abbey, we believe retirement should be a time of relaxation and enjoyment. That’s why we offer great amenities so that seniors can enjoy aging without worrying about daily chores or other mundane tasks. Our independent living community is located in Houston’s thriving West Houston area, with convenient access to shopping, health care services, and entertainment venues. Plus, our community is staffed with experienced professionals who are available 24/7 to provide assistance whenever it is needed.
These prices include all utilities and access to our many amenities, such as a fully equipped fitness center, library, media room, indoor pool, and outdoor patio.
We are proud to offer independent living services tailored specifically for seniors in Houston, Texas. These services allow seniors to maintain an independent lifestyle while enjoying all the benefits of our modern community. Whether you’re looking for an active retirement lifestyle or just want some peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, The Abbey at Westminster Plaza has something for everyone!
What does a typical day of independent living at The Abbey at Westminster Plaza look like?
A typical day at The Abbey at Westminster Plaza in Houston, Texas, offers residents a chance to enjoy their retirement in style. Residents can wake up and start their day with a delicious complimentary breakfast prepared by our professional chefs. After breakfast, they can take part in organized group activities such as exercise or art classes.
Residents also have access to various recreational amenities for entertainment and relaxation, including a heated indoor pool, hot tub, and sauna. There is an on-site library where residents can read magazines and books or participate in book clubs. Weekly movie nights are popular among the residents as well.
The Abbey at Westminster Plaza provides transportation services for trips to nearby shopping malls or local attractions. Residents who prefer to stay at home can find plenty of activities available on site, such as card games, Bingo tournaments, and craft classes. Yoga classes are also held every week for those who want to reduce stress and maintain flexibility.
For lunchtime, residents can choose to take advantage of our restaurant-style dining area or cook in their kitchenette. After lunch, many residents go outdoors to enjoy the fresh air on the landscaped grounds or participate in outdoor activities like tennis or golfing at the nearby golf course.
In the evening, there is usually on-site or off-site entertainment, depending on what’s happening in Houston that week. This could include anything from concerts to plays put on by local theater groups. Trips around town may be organized for those who would like to explore more of what Houston has to offer, such as visiting the beautiful parks or taking a stroll along Buffalo Bayou.
No matter how residents choose to spend their days – whether it’s exploring what Houston has to offer or staying closer to home – The Abbey at Westminster Plaza strives to make sure its residents enjoy each day with comfort and ease during their retirement.
How do you help residents adjust to independent living at The Abbey at Westminster Plaza?
At The Abbey at Westminster Plaza in Houston, Texas, we understand that the transition to independent senior living can be daunting. That’s why our team provides personalized support to help make this process as seamless as possible. Our staff takes a compassionate and understanding approach to ensure every resident feels secure and comfortable as they adjust to their new home.
Our personalized services include on-site social workers who can provide emotional guidance and connection with additional resources deemed beneficial for each individual’s needs. We also offer activities such as educational workshops, physical exercise classes, and daily group activities that encourage residents to make meaningful connections with other residents in the community. Additionally, our team members are trained to assist residents with medication management and any other health care needs that may arise.
We strongly believe in providing our residents with tools and strategies for successful independent aging. This includes offering financial literacy courses that focus on teaching budgeting techniques, money management tips, fraud prevention education, and retirement planning advice. We also offer nutrition classes where we emphasize healthy food choices for the overall wellness of mind and body. Technology courses are also available to help seniors become digitally connected in an environment that is free of judgment or intimidation.
The Abbey at Westminster Plaza offers an enriching experience for seniors looking to embrace an active lifestyle without compromising their independence or well-being. Our dedicated team ensures all of our residents feel supported as they transition into life at our premier retirement community in Houston, Texas!
What is the age requirement to live in The Abbey at Westminster Plaza's independent living community in Houston, Texas?
The Abbey at Westminster Plaza offers a retirement lifestyle designed for seniors ages 55 and older. Residents enjoy the convenience of independent living combined with access to services and amenities tailored to older adults. In addition, independent living communities offer a variety of activities and events specifically designed for their residents, such as group outings, clubs, fitness classes, wellness programs, educational seminars, and social gatherings.
Assisted Living Questions
What is assisted living?
Assisted living is a residence for older people or people with disabilities or whose health or well-being require a higher level of personalized care and support. Assisted living also includes the routines of daily living, social engagement, as well as access to medical care when needed. Such people, or their families, may choose assisted living facilities so that professional help is on hand.
What is the difference between assisted living and a nursing home?
The main difference between nursing home care and assisted living is that nursing homes provide medical and personal care in a clinical setting, while assisted living primarily provides personal care in a home-like, social setting.
How much does assisted living cost?
Assisted living costs an average of $2,400 and up. Pricing also depends on the apartment size and services needed.
Who is right for assisted living?
Assisted living is to support and help older adults maintain their good health. Assisted living is a great fit for seniors or couples who are still active and social but just need some extra help with daily life. Seniors and their adult children can take comfort knowing that 24/7 support is available if needed.
Is it true that seniors are happier and healthy in assisted living?
Life in a retirement community leads to better health, a study of 2,800 individuals finds. People who live in retirement communities overall are happier and sometimes healthier than older adults who haven’t moved into one, a recent study from ProMatura has found.
Can visitors stay overnight?
Many assisted living communities offer guest apartments where visitors may stay.
Is there a personal emergency response system at your assisted living community?
Most assisted living offers a nurse call system. A resident would wear a call pendant or have a pull cord in their room or bathroom.
What services are offered in assisted living communities? Are social and cultural activities organized?
Services offered in assisted living communities are medication management and assistance with using the bathroom, dressing and grooming. Housekeeping, meals, laundry and transportation services, as well as social programs and activities, are typically included. Social and cultural activities are always organized and happening as well!
Are assisted living costs potentially tax deductible?
Medical expenses, such as the part of assisted living fees that goes toward assistance and interventions, can be deductible if those expenses are greater than 7.5% of the person’s adjusted gross income.
