Angela Petersen, Author at Snyder Village

A Move For Your Health

Angela Petersen — Wed, 22 Nov 2023 01:30:03 +0000

Can moving to a retirement community actually improve your health? A misconception about senior living communities is that they are for the “old and decrepit” and reserved for the inactive elderly. When in reality, most retirement communities are vibrant populations full of residents who enjoy the many activities and social gatherings offered on campus. The focus of most communities is the health and wellness of its residents. And at a full life-plan community like Snyder Village, the care is not only for the physical but also the mental and spiritual aspects of the individual as well. Here are just a few ways in which making the move to a retirement community can actually improve your whole-body health:

1). Opportunities for Physical Activity

We’ve all heard the benefits of what exercise can do for our bodies – manage weight, reduce the incidence of heart disease, regulate blood pressure, keep bones strong, improve sleep, and even increase mood, among other things. But staying motived to exercise can be difficult. Many retirement communities make exercising easy by offering numerous exercise classes, outings involving physical activity (such as hiking), and customized therapy or exercise programs. At Snyder Village residents benefit from several group exercise classes, which provide extra peer motivation. Examples include chair yoga, tai chi, and Silver Sneakers classes.

Along with organized classes offered on campus, most retirement communities are designed to be pedestrian and bike friendly. And with so many friends and neighbors nearby, there are always companions to help make a walk or bike ride even more enjoyable. The “Holy Rollers” bike club is a favorite on the Snyder Village campus. And if golf is your game, many retirement communities are purposely built near golf courses so you can enjoy the health benefits of your favorite sport more often!

2). Healthy Meals

With the amount of work that goes into shopping, preparing, and cleaning up three healthy meals a day, it’s often easier to just grab a less-than-healthy frozen dinner or junk food item from the pantry. But at a retirement community, dining halls and restaurants are available to take care of the food preparation and cleanup for you. Many communities are putting more of a focus on offering quality nutrition with fresh local ingredients, with some even coming straight from their own campus gardens.

3). Mental Stimulation & Spiritual Growth

While caring for the body is important, the care of the mind can’t be ignored. Engaging the mind can help combat memory loss and dementia. Retirement communities offer many ways to keep the mind active such as card-playing clubs, history lectures, music concerts, and visits to local museums.

Studies have shown the many positive benefits that a person’s faith can have psychologically and on his or her overall health. Individuals of faith can exhibit a higher level of positive emotions like happiness, hope, optimism, self-esteem, and sense of purpose. In faith-based retirement communities like Snyder Village, spiritual growth is encouraged by chapel services and Bible studies.

4). Social Interaction

According to the National Institute on Aging, research has found links to social isolation and loneliness in seniors to higher risks for many physical and mental conditions. High blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, a weakened immune system, anxiety, depression, cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s disease, and even death have all been linked to isolation and loneliness. Studies show that people who engage in meaningful activities and are socially active tend to improve their mood, develop a sense of purpose, and even live longer. A resident’s social calendar can always remain full at a retirement community. Whatever your interest, whether it be crafting, cooking, sports, book clubs, or the theater, you will most likely find a like-minded social group or fellow neighbor to share your interests with at a retirement community.

There are many advantages to living in a retirement community, and the physical, mental, and spiritual health benefits may be at the top of the list. If you want to enter the next phase of life happier and healthier – now may be the perfect time to find a retirement community and make the move.

Snyder Village in Metamora is a life plan community that offers independent living in its cottages and apartments. Snyder Village also features assisted living, memory care, and a health center along with physical therapy on site. Its home care services support residents in Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford, and Marshall Counties. For more information, call (309) 367-4300 or visit www.snydervillage.com.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3671693/

https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/social-isolation-loneliness-older-people-pose-health-risks

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The Non-Profit Difference

Angela Petersen — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 21:27:39 +0000

With all the unique characteristics of today’s senior living communities, one important feature that is often overlooked is whether the community or facility is a for-profit or non-profit organization. Even though this distinction can make a world of difference, many individuals searching for a new senior living community fail to take note of this defining characteristic. Whether looking at skilled nursing, assisted living, independent living, or home care, the industry is predominately for-profit. According to the American Geriatrics Society, nearly 70% of nursing homes in the U.S. are for-profit, while only 23% are non-profit, and approximately 7% are government-run facilities.

While each community is unique with its own management, generally speaking there are several benefits to choosing a non-profit community. One important feature of a non-profit community is that any surplus gained is invested back into the community, with a focus on caring for the residents and improving the facilities. The pressure of making money and being accountable to shareholders is a heavy focus for a for-profit organization, whereas a non-profit is given the freedom to remain focused on their mission and resident care. This non-profit distinction allows the community to put their focus and energy on what they value most.

Many of the for-profit communities are run by large, national chains and can lack the benefits of local community leadership. Snyder Village, a non-profit life plan community in Metamora, IL, has deep local roots stemming all the way back to its namesake, Bertha Snyder. Mrs. Snyder had a profound love for her local community which led to her leaving a charitable gift that would ultimately lay the foundation for Snyder Village. As a non-profit organization, Snyder Village is governed by a volunteer board of directors. This board is comprised of individuals from the local area who possess a variety of perspectives and a committed interest in the local community. All decisions made regarding the residents and their care are made locally by people who are held accountable by the community.

The time, commitment, and even resources invested by local community members into a non-profit facility help to further establish the accountability put on the organization to continue offering a high level of care. Snyder Village has roughly 180 volunteers each year who do everything from running fundraising events to accompanying residents on outings. “It would be difficult to almost impossible to operate our larger fundraising activities such as the Annual Tee It Up Golf Outing Benefit and the Annual Online Benefit Auction and Village Market without volunteers,” explains Mike Lane, Development Director at Snyder Village. “Our volunteers are a vital part of not only the fundraisers, but also many of our resident activities across our campus.”

Because of the non-profit distinction, Snyder Village is able to provide care for its residents in ways that its for-profit counterparts may not be able. The Snyder Village “Resident In Need Fund” was established to help provide continued care for those residents who have exhausted their personal resources and can no longer pay for the cost of their continuing care. “The Snyder Village Resident In Need Fund will allow Snyder Village to continue to care for our residents and is even more important today than ever, as health care costs continue to rise,” says Mike. Donations garnered through local community fundraising events and other means help ensure that Snyder Village can provide the highest quality of care for its residents – whatever their situation may be.

Yet another distinction of a non-profit community or facility is their freedom to define themselves as a faith-based organization. Non-profit facilities are not owned by hospitals or other medical entities, and the majority are run by religious or faith-based organizations. This allows them to remain focused on a mission statement that leadership and team members are encouraged to adhere to each day. However, residents are not required to be of the same religious background, and entrance is not based on the religious affiliation of the resident. “Our Snyder Village mission statement is short,” says Mike, “but it states: ‘We are committed to providing for the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of others in a loving, dignified and Christian atmosphere.’ This definitely applies to all of our residents across our campus and to each of our employees who provide the care and services for our residents.”

When considering senior living communities, it is always best to visit or speak directly to the community you are considering. Each community is unique in its services and offerings and requires a thoughtful look. A distinguishing feature that shouldn’t be overlooked, however, is whether the community is a for-profit or non-profit organization. This characteristic alone may prove to be the deciding factor that makes all the difference.

Snyder Village in Metamora is a Life Plan Community that offers independent living, assisted living, memory care programs, skilled nursing care, therapy, and home care. For more information, call (309) 367-4300 or visit www.snydervillage.com.

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The Importance of Friendship

Angela Petersen — Sun, 22 Oct 2023 01:30:26 +0000

“Do you want to be my friend?” A simple question uttered by one child to another is often the only prerequisite for a happy friendship. But as we get older, it can become harder to make friends. Even though it may be more difficult, it is no less important to create and maintain friendships later in life than when we were young. In fact, studies show that friendship is instrumental in creating a healthy lifestyle as we age. A study by The Gerontological Society of America assessed adults aged 65 and over and found that having friends in old age is linked to higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of friendship during the senior years and why these relationships are vital to a healthy life.

Benefits of Adult Friendships

1) Friendships are a cure for loneliness and depression.

There is perhaps no other time in life where loneliness can take a tole than in the senior years. Many times, mobility is lessened and getting out of the house to see others becomes more difficult. Family members and spouses can also pass on, leaving their loved ones alone. Friendships can become a lifeline – giving a sense of purpose, community, and human connection. Sharing meals with others, spending time outdoors with neighbors, or attending social events can help boost one’s mood and show a senior that they are not alone after all.

2) Social engagement encourages cognitive health and mental acuity.

The human brain has the ability to learn and grow as we age, and staying socially active can further this growth. Friends can help you stay mentally sharp as you try new hobbies together, engage in stimulating discussions, attend cultural events together, or learn a new game with one another. Friendships may just be the key to fueling lifelong learning.

3) An understanding friend is priceless.

Many times as we age, those closest to us, such as children or other family members, take on more of a caregiver role. It can become hard for them to understand the experience of the aging process and the challenges that can come with it. Our peers become our biggest allies, sources of comfort, and the understanding shoulder to lean on. Talking to someone in the same stage of life can be helpful and even therapeutic.

4) Friends help bring purpose.

When you know you have a luncheon to go to or a fishing trip with a buddy scheduled, it’s much easier to wake up in the morning with anticipation. Friends provide a sense of purpose and encouragement to get out and live life. Community living, such as in a retirement community, offers numerous opportunities for engagement with others around the same age. You’re more willing to take pride in your appearance and take on the day when your friends are nearby.

5) Senior friendships encourage healthy habits.

Peers and friends have a great influence over your health and wellness – possibly more than you think. Accountability from friends can help you keep fitness goals, and it’s always easier to try a new exercise class, go on a brisk walk, or eat healthier when friends are together. A health-conscious friend can motivate those around them to embrace healthier fitness and nutrition habits.

Finding Friendships in Community

Judy Brandow, Joan Gerjets, and Rosie Alig met one another shortly after moving to the Snyder Village Retirement Community in Metamora, IL. Each came to the community under different circumstances – widowed, still with a spouse, or still working – but all found a shared love for staying active and socially involved. Each became involved in the Resident Council on campus and took part in the campus events offered. “We had the same interests and were known as the three amigos, or troublemakers,” says Joan.

Now, more than eight years into their friendship, the three amigos encourage one another to stay busy. “Our friendship sometimes is an encouragement to attend some activities that I might not think of doing,” explains Rosie. “I’m not a crafty person and they both are, but they will help me with anything and encourage me to come to the craft activity anyway. I know I can always call them about anything. We will help each other whenever we can.”

We just love having a good time together planning our next adventure,” says Joan. We have served on the Resident Council, organized the community garage sale, held pizza nights, helped at Bingo and potlucks, and volunteered wherever we’re needed.”

The emotional support their friendship provides and the community created has formed an invaluable bond between the ladies. “Our special friendship means we are there to celebrate the good times and support each other on the sad days,” says Joan. Judy adds, “We are very close friends and talk and listen to whatever is on our minds or going on in our families. We are always there for each other. We have been through deaths and sickness…and fun. We always have each other to depend on for anything we need. Rosie and Joan are my family. My life feels complete knowing they are here.”

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Deciding on a Memory Care Program

Angela Petersen — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 16:43:58 +0000

With the number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s projected to rise to nearly 14 million by the year 2050, more senior living communities are recognizing the need for specialized memory care for those with cognitive impairments. But how do you decide which memory care program is best for your loved one? Below are a few questions to ask when considering a memory care program:

What type of care is offered and at what levels?
Not all memory care programs offer different levels of care, instead taking a one-size-fits-all approach. Look for a facility that will take an individualized care approach for your loved one by offering the right care level that is needed. Will the facility communicate with you often about the care that is being provided? Find out when care plans will be made, who will be involved in the caretaking, and how often you’ll be updated. A facility that provides for not only the physical, but also the social, emotional, and spiritual needs of your loved one is always best.

Will staff perform or require a complete assessment before admitting my loved one?
Most senior care living facilities require a complete assessment from a doctor, but it’s even better if the staff at a memory care facility is trained to administer an assessment in addition to the doctor’s assessment. Notes from a doctor can fail to paint the whole picture of a person’s health, and a facility with a nurse or other trained staff can discover missing pieces of information needed to determine what form of care is best for your loved one.

What safety and security measures are in place?
Often, the safety of a loved one with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia can be a top concern. Does the facility make the necessary precautions to keep your loved one secure if they happen to wander or get lost? Are the doors kept secure and is staff present 24/7? Is protected outdoor space available for your loved one to enjoy?

What are the living spaces like?
Does the facility offer different floor plans? Are rooms shared or private? There can be a vast difference between the types of living arrangements offered. Be sure to get the details of what is offered to help determine what living scenario your loved one would be most comfortable with. Also, is the building itself easy to navigate? An easy-to-navigate floor plan can help lessen the chance that your loved one will get lost or confused. A building with a circular walking path can help ease the frustrations of someone living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia.

What community amenities are there?
Asking this question can give the facility staff the opportunity to share what makes them stand out. Some memory care facilities offer a wide array of amenities, such as secure outdoor space, physical exercise programs, laundry service, transportation, and nutritious meals. If seeking a faith-based organization, look for a memory care program that also offers religious services and/or chaplain visits. Are there a variety of activities offered to meet the individual interests and needs of the residents? A good memory care facility should be offering activities that are specially designed to help slow cognitive decline and promote physical activity.

What type of staffing is offered?
Is there staff available around-the-clock and what is the patient-to-staff ratio? A high level of care should be provided no matter the hour of the day or night. It is also helpful to ask how many nurses are on staff and if the facility has a regular visiting physician.

What type of training do the staff members have?
Memory care is a unique kind of caregiving with its own set of challenges. This requires specialized training, which should be regularly reinforced. With over 400 types of dementia possible, the most common being Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia, it is wise to find a care facility that recognizes and understands that not all individuals dealing with dementia are the same.

What is the cost of memory care?
Pricing can vary widely depending on the type of facility. In general, memory care is often more expensive than traditional nursing care or assisted living. This is due to the need for not only more staff members, but staff members with specialized training. Speak with the facility to find out what levels of cost are offered and what types of benefits may be available.

Just as every senior is different, every memory care program is unique. Visiting a campus and asking questions is the best way to begin the search for a memory care facility.

Snyder Village in Metamora, IL, offers two memory care programs on its campus. Memory care for early-to-mid stage dementia is offered at Assisted Living, and memory care for mid-to-late stage dementia is available at the Health Center. Both programs feature specialized activities to help slow cognitive decline, nutritious meals, nursing care, secured outdoor space, and loving care in a Christian environment. Learn more by calling (309) 367-4300 or by visiting www.snydervillage.com.

Snyder Village in Metamora is a life plan community that offers independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing care, therapy, memory care, and home care. For more information on all services available at Snyder Village, call (309) 367-4300 or visit www.snydervillage.com.

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How to Avoid the Dangers of Isolation

Angela Petersen — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 16:47:57 +0000

One of the biggest dangers affecting older adults today may not be what first comes to mind. Physical ailments such as chronic pain, increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and Alzheimer’s Disease are common concerns as we age. The risk of falling and medication side effects can also be causes of worry. But did you know that one of the biggest dangers facing older adults today is isolation? Isolation and loneliness not only affect an individual’s mental health negatively, but their physical health can suffer as well.

A new study by The National Poll on Healthy Aging found that 1 in 3 adults between the ages of 50 and 80 feel socially isolated. The study was conducted between 2018 and 2023. Although the number of those feeling isolated has decreased since the height of the COVID pandemic, the numbers are still higher than they were pre-COVID. The adults most affected were those with disabilities and those who were unemployed.

Dangers of Isolation

When an older adult is home-bound and unable to attend events and social gatherings, isolation can quickly affect their mental health and well-being. Depression caused by isolation can be particularly dangerous, as one can get caught in a depression-isolation cycle. The more depression takes over, the less motivated an individual will be to socialize. The more the individual withdrawals from their loved ones and society, the stronger the feelings of loneliness and depression get. It can be easy to get trapped in this cycle of depression and social isolation.

Having conversations with others is a great way to keep cognitive skills sharp. When an individual becomes isolated, they no longer have the opportunity to use their language skills, practice keeping focus, and recall memories through conversation. An increased risk for dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other cognitive health problems may develop without regular interaction with others.

Not only affecting mental health, isolation and loneliness impact physical health as well. According to the CDC, older adults with poor social relationships have a 29% increased risk of developing heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke. Social isolation has also been found to significantly increase a person’s risk of premature death – so much so, that it rivals the risk of premature death caused by smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity.

Avoiding Isolation

If your loved one lives alone and is facing loneliness, take time to visit. While long visits are most likely appreciated, even a short stop-in will help lift the spirits of your loved one. Drop by while running errands, bring a meal, or have morning coffee together. If your loved one has grandkids, make a quick stop before a musical concert or recital, when the kids are dressed up. Even if your loved one is unable to make it to the event itself, the visit will make them feel like they’re still part of the special occasion.

When visiting, be sure to interact with the senior and engage in conversation. Ask questions and inquire about their activities and feelings. If holding a conversation is difficult due to dementia or other cognitive issues, bring a favorite book and read it aloud to your loved one. Listening to the spoken word can still stimulate cognitive function and bring entertainment.

If a senior is able to drive or get transportation, encourage them to get involved in their church or local community senior center. Many great activities and ways to connect with others are available. A benefit of living in a retirement community or assisted living, such as Snyder Village in Metamora, IL, is the instant community it provides. For example, Snyder Village has a team of staff members dedicated to creating engaging activities and social opportunities for its residents. Daily opportunities for fun activities are available, such as card games, crafts, exercise classes, Bible studies, and trips and outings. It is easy for residents to make friends with their neighbors as they take part in activities together.

If your loved one resides in a skilled nursing center, volunteer to accompany them to activities. They may feel more comfortable with you there and may be encouraged to try the activities on their own in the future. Visiting and bringing their favorite restaurant meal or taking a walk with them are other ways to lift the spirits of your loved one and keep loneliness at bay.

Human connection is a basic need we all crave. If you or someone in your life is facing isolation and loneliness, reach out. Call a friend, visit a neighbor, or get involved in your local community. No matter the age, it’s still possible to make meaningful connections and valuable friendships. Connect with someone today – it will do your mind, body, and soul good.

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When Is It Time to Stop Driving?

Angela Petersen — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 01:33:43 +0000

For most, driving a car is more than just being physically and mentally capable of operating a vehicle. Instead, it is a means to independence. Driving provides a way to choose your own activities, connect with others, and travel at ease. Most Americans rely on driving to get through their daily activities, so then what happens when driving becomes dangerous due to age and physical limitations? How do you know when it’s time for your loved one to stop driving? If you’re wondering whether driving has become too risky and it’s time to put the keys away, keep an eye out for the common warning signs.

Unsafe Driving Warning Signs

1. Increase in Traffic Tickets

Has there been a recent increase in traffic violations or warnings? If driving has become more erratic or haphazard, the police may have noticed. If you don’t feel comfortable asking this question of a loved one, a more subtle approach may be asking if their car insurance rates have increased lately. If the answer is yes, then additional tickets and violations may be to blame.

2. Changes in Driving Behavior

Does your loved one seem more anxious or apprehensive to get into the car to drive? They may be aware that driving is becoming more of a challenge but are hesitant to say anything just yet. When in the car, notice if your loved one seems more tense, worried, or preoccupied. Do they still perform the basic safety tasks, like fastening their seatbelt and using a blinker? Are they aware of road signs, traffic lights, and the vehicles around them? Does their reaction time seem slower, and do they stay safely in their lane?

3. Damage to the Vehicle

Are there extra dents and scratches on your loved one’s vehicle? They may be struggling more to make turns, park, and correctly assess the conditions of the road like they used to.

4. Friends’ and Neighbors’ Observances

If you are wondering if your loved one is still safe behind the wheel but can’t be with them all the time to observe their behavior, call their friends and neighbors. Often times, those close to the driver will notice changes in behavior that may need your attention.

If you observe problems or hear from others that your loved one may no longer be safe on the road, it’s time to address the issue at hand.

Tips on Starting the Conversation

It’s normal to experience symptoms that make driving more difficult as we age, such as loss of vision, hearing impairment, dementia, other health conditions, and even prescription drug use. Almost everyone, at some point in life, will need to make the decision to stop driving. If it’s time to address the issue with your loved one, approach the (often emotional) topic with care.

1. Start Early

If you’ve noticed small warning signs, you may be able to suggest giving up certain aspects of driving, such as driving at night and driving long distances. Starting early and making small changes first will help ease your loved one into the transition of no longer getting behind the wheel. Don’t wait until it’s become a serious health risk or a traumatic accident has occurred.

2. Lead with Understanding

Acknowledge that this is a difficult topic and negative emotions may be surrounding it. Keep the conversation focused on the facts. If you’ve noticed unsafe driving habits, identify the incidents instead of focusing on the age or health of the individual. Remain calm throughout the conversation and give your loved one space to share their response and input.

3. Visit the DMV

If talking with your loved one feels fruitless, a visit to the DMV may be helpful. Have your loved one take a driving and vision test or enroll them in a refresher course for older drivers. However, be prepared for the chance they do pass the driving test and are allowed to remain on the road. Bringing up the idea of no longer driving may be more difficult after authorities have given them the green light.

4. Offer Transportation Alternatives

Do a little research beforehand and have a list of alternatives they can use to get around. Talk to family and friends and look up transportation services to see where help may be available. Additional ideas are listed below.

Driving Alternatives

Thankfully, there are several safe transportation alternatives one can take if driving has become too dangerous. In large cities, public transportation can get you to where you want to go. Even in more rural areas, there are often buses, taxis, or cars for hire. Many communities have senior transportation services available for a small fee. Or perhaps it’s time to put the transportation worries to rest and make the move to a senior living community, where transportation services are often available. At Snyder Village, a life plan community in Metamora, IL, residents can secure rides to appointments, outings, and errands. Snyder Village Home Care also offers transportation services to people needing help within Peoria, Woodford, Tazewell, and Marshall Counties.

If you believe your loved one has reached the point where driving is dangerous, it’s never too early to start the conversation about whether they should be on the road. Afterall, their safety and the safety of others depends on it.

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Snyder Village Celebrates 35th Anniversary

Angela Petersen — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 04:51:48 +0000

Community Celebration to Be Held Featuring Live Music & Food Trucks

Snyder Village opened in 1988 as a state-of-the-art facility for older adults with 61 health care beds, six retirement cottages, and six apartments. Over the last 35 years, the campus has grown to the current 106 health care beds, 65 assisted living units, 40 retirement apartments, and 170 cottages encompassing more than 40 acres.

Snyder Village, a non-profit life plan community, is committed to providing for the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of others in a loving, dignified, and Christian atmosphere. To date, Snyder Village has served over 5,000 residents & clients, employed more than 3,200 staff, and been assisted by countless volunteers, family members and friends.

To celebrate the impact Snyder Village has had on the local Central Illinois community for the past 35 years, an anniversary celebration will be held for the public at the Snyder Village campus, 1200 E Partridge St, Metamora, IL. The open house event will take place from 4:00-7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, August 8. There will be fun for the whole community with live music, food trucks, bouncy houses, balloon art, Bingo & games, face painting, cake & beverages, and more! More information can be found at www.snydervillage.com.

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Snyder Village Employee Awarded WMBD CI Hero

Angela Petersen — Tue, 20 Jun 2023 20:31:23 +0000

Jessica Beyer, Memory Care Coordinator at Snyder Village, was awarded the CI Hero Awarded from WMBD News. This awarded is granted to someone who is making a positive difference in their local community.

“We are making a big impact in these people’s lives,” said Snyder Village Memory Care Coordinator Jessica Beyer. “They are human beings. They need a whole lot of love and a whole lot of care and a whole lot of grace… and I feel like that’s what we provide for them.”

Viewers Choice Award 2023

Angela Petersen — Tue, 06 Jun 2023 18:02:43 +0000

Snyder Village is pleased to be awarded the winner of the Viewer’s Choice Award for 2023. First place was awarded for both the Retirement Community and Snyder Village Home Care. The awards are voted on by local viewers of WEEK 25 and Heart of Illinois ABC.

View the winner’s list here: https://www.25newsnow.com/page/viewers-choice/#/gallery

Learn more about the Retirement Community by calling (309) 367-4900 or by visiting https://www.snydervillage.com/retirement-community/

Learn more about Home Care by calling (309) 367-2300 or by visiting https://www.snydervillage.com/home-care-peoria-il/

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Why Choose A Life Plan Community

Angela Petersen — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 18:06:53 +0000

With over 900 million people in the world over the age of 60 and that number projected to grow to 1.4 billion by 2030 and 2.1 billion by 2050, the demand for senior care and accommodations will continue to rise. It is estimated that 70% of people over the age of 65 will need long-term health care during their lifetime. It is never too early to plan for your future and to learn of the options available. Most people have heard of assisted living, independent living, and memory care, but are unfamiliar with another great option in senior care – Life Plan Communities.

Life Plan Community Defined

So, what is a Life Plan Community? Simply put, it is an active, vibrant retirement community with options for future healthcare (if and when needed) located on the same campus. To qualify as a Life Plan Community, a community must offer several levels of care and living options all on one campus. For most communities, these include:

-Independent Living: For those who are healthy or relatively healthy and wish to remain independent
-Assisted Living: For those who wish to live independently but may need help with a daily living task (bathing, dressing, etc.)
-Memory Care: For those who need a safe, secure, and homelike environment with specialized care for cognitive impairments
-Skilled Nursing Care: For those who need round-the-clock assistance or daily medical attention

Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) was the common name for this type of community for many years, but in 2014 a national task force was formed to examine the effectiveness of this title. The new title of “Life Plan Community” was established in 2015 as a better fit to describe these communities which empower seniors to plan for their future and live a purposeful, active life.

Amenities & Features

Distinctly unique from stand-alone assisted living, memory care, or retirement facilities, a Life Plan Community boasts its own features and amenities. Having the entire continuum of care on one campus is really what sets Life Plan Communities apart, and they often promote an active lifestyle through all the levels of care, resulting in a vibrant and active community. Many Life Plan Communities feature picturesque surroundings on their large campuses with ample space to walk, bike, and enjoy the outdoors. Couples find Life Plan Communities especially appealing since the varying levels of support on one campus allow them to remain close, even if one individual eventually requires a higher level of care.

Many supportive services are also available on the campus of a Life Plan Community, including nursing care, physician visits, therapy, and short- or long-term rehabilitation. Additional amenities can include transportation, dining options, housekeeping, social opportunities, fitness classes and wellness programs. A select number of Life Plan Communities, such as Snyder Village in Metamora, IL, include the added benefit of a 24-hour emergency response system, which provides assurance knowing help is nearby. With home maintenance, lawn care, and snow shoveling taken care of by the community, residents have the freedom to live their lifestyle without being bogged down by the tasks of home upkeep. Life Plan Communities are specially designed for those adults who desire a full life while enjoying hobbies, interests, wellness pursuits, and time with friends and family.

Taking the Next Step

For those wanting to learn more about these unique communities, scheduling an in-person tour is the best way to get a true sense of what living there would be like. Julie Beltramea, Retirement Community Director at Snyder Village, enjoys taking prospective residents on tour, where they can see an apartment, cottage, dining room, library, and perhaps even a class or other activity in progress. To schedule your own tour of Snyder Village Retirement Community, call Julie at (309) 367-4900.

In order to move into a Life Plan Community, individuals must first qualify through an application process. The application will differ depending on which level of care an individual is seeking, and the process can be extensive. This detailed application process assists the Community in ensuring there will be enough room for the resident to progress through the different levels of care if the need arises.

To take full advantage of the benefits of a Life Plan Community, individuals should aim for entering the community when healthy enough to enjoy the freedom and convenience of independent living first and then enjoy receiving support through all the stages of their senior years. It’s never too early to start the planning process!

When thinking about senior living options, take into consideration all that a Life Plan Community has to offer. There is a feeling of security that comes from being part of a trusted community, and knowing that a senior can transition to another level of care without having to relocate outside of a familiar community brings a sense of comfort and relief. While Life Plan Communities boast many unique amenities and features, the peace of mind they provide is enough to make them an excellent choice among senior living options.

Snyder Village in Metamora is a Life Plan Community that offers independent living in its retirement cottages and apartments. Beautiful assisted living accommodations, memory care programs, skilled nursing care, and physical therapy are also available on campus. Its home care services support individuals in Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford, and Marshall Counties. For more information, call (309) 367-4300 or visit www.snydervillage.com.

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