At Summer House, a memory care neighborhood at Fredericka Manor in the heart of Chula Vista, these sensory experiences are woven into the daily lives of residents living with Alzheimer’s and other cognitive challenges.

Summer House opened in 2015 with 22 cottage-style homes, each with modern comforts, classic styling and its own trellis-covered front porch. In January 2024, Fredericka Manor will debut its Summer House expansion, which adds an additional 22 cottages on the west side of the Fredericka campus. The new Summer House offers the same services and amenities as the original.

Art, music, gardening, group outings and a loving staff create a nurturing, life-enriching environment. Technologies like Music and Memory®, stimulate familiarity, while robot and audio-animatronic pets provide comfort to residents and It’s Never 2 Late, an interactive giant touch screen, engages residents in meaningful ways.

“By expanding Summer House, we are keeping Fredericka Manor on the forefront of meeting the needs of the greater community with memory care options,” said Fredericka Manor’s Executive Director Ben Geske. “An exceptional memory care community like Summer House at Fredericka Manor is designed to provide peace of mind for families and caregivers, but more importantly to enhance the quality of life for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia.”

When you step into San Diego’s most peaceful neighborhood, you’ll find quiet spaces, lovely landscaping and garden pathways. It’s a place where families can share time together in a warm, inviting environment. Every aspect of Summer House is crafted to be welcoming and familiar.

Designed for privacy and ease of accessibility, each well-appointed cottage features modern, sun-filled rooms with barrier-free living, including roll-in showers and bathrooms and unobtrusive monitoring technology by caregivers for peace of mind.

Summer House at Fredericka Manor is part of the continuum of care at Fredericka Manor. Here, charming streets and manicured lawns, lovely cottages and light-drenched apartments offer residents a simpler but engaging life. The small-town feel comes from the community’s roots. It has been part of Chula Vista for more than a century. And our community celebrates that heritage with balconies beckoning you to sit and take in the mountain sunrise, patios ideal for dining al fresco, and neighbors who love where they live.

We’re home to aspiring authors and experimental chefs, master gardeners and amateur genealogists. When you join them here, you’ll find the perfect setting to flourish and connect. It’s a community of enthusiasts, all eager to listen, and ready to share. You’ll find your days fill up quickly here. In fact, with so many interesting things to do, you may feel like our social calendar was designed specifically for you. And then you realize you have found just what you are looking for at Fredericka Manor.

For more information on services and monthly pricing or to schedule a tour, please call 619-205-4115 or email us at FMsales@frontporch.net.

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“It actually was her idea. She decided, you know, it’s time to move her and my dad. He had the beginning of dementia and it was a little tough — cooking, cleaning, yard work,” shares Arlene about her mom’s choice to move to Fredericka Manor.

The first thing that caught their attention at the senior living community was the construction of a large picturesque pond on the premises. Arlene remarks, “After it was all completed, it’s very beautiful. It’s bigger than I thought!”

Angie, now a resident, echoes her daughter’s sentiments. “I enjoy going there every day, sometimes twice!” The pond, a scenic centerpiece at Fredericka Manor, has become a favorite spot for residents to relax and connect with nature.

Reflecting on her mother’s transformation, Arlene observes, “She’s become more talkative…”

“I am?” Angie questions with a chuckle.

Arlene adds, “I see that she’s taking care of herself very well. Having my dad with her, it was tough for her to take care of herself, but she’s very much blossomed here.”

“I miss him, but now, I have time for myself. All the activities they have there, I have a choice. And right now I take exercise classes every day and it’s attended by 20 or more people every session,” Angie shares.

“We know that she’s safe. That’s the main thing. And she’s making new friends,” she adds.

Angie expresses gratitude for her new lifestyle, “I’m grateful for everything that they do for me here. I don’t have to cook. I have all the free time to do whatever I like here.”

Retirement living has not only relieved Arlene of the stress of caregiving but has also provided her mom with a vibrant community where she can thrive. The large iconic pond, daily exercise classes and the freedom to choose from a variety of activities have made senior living in Chula Vista an enriching experience for this family.

As Arlene succinctly puts it, “It’s not just a place to live; it’s a community that cares. Seeing my mom happy and engaged makes every mile we traveled to get here worth it.”

At Fredericka Manor, retirement living isn’t just a choice; it’s a celebration of life, connection and newfound joy.

Imagine your own personal enrichment as part of a community at Fredericka Manor. For a limited time, you could receive 50% off for a whole year on select accommodations. Call (619) 205-4115 now for all the details. Learn more about this dynamic senior living community in Chula Vista at frederickamanor.org.

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Richard, an avid gardener, shares, “People come by and visit the garden to see who’s doing what and what’s growing, and we take that stuff and share it. I’d never grown zucchini before, so I planted some, and my wife started finding recipes for zucchini bread. We had more than we could eat, so we share it with our neighbors and other people we sometimes eat with in the dining room.” This exemplifies the spirit of sharing and friendship that permeates throughout the senior living community, turning simple moments into cherished memories.

Residents at Fredericka Manor enjoy a life free from the worries of landscaping, maintenance and housekeeping. They indulge in chef-prepared meals and engage in enriching educational and social activities. With the rising costs of home upkeep, choosing a senior living community offering comprehensive support is both convenient and a wise investment. These communities provide more than just a place to live; they offer a nurturing environment where every day is an opportunity to thrive in a caring and engaged community, celebrating the joy and richness of well-lived years.

Angie, another resident, expresses her gratitude for the myriad of activities available. “I like all the activities they have here, I have a choice. I take an exercise class every day and it is attended by 20 or more people. I’m grateful for everything that they do for me here. I don’t have to cook; I have all the free time and do whatever I like here.” This freedom to choose, paired with the plethora of activities, empowers residents to lead fulfilling lives filled with purpose and enjoyment.

Arlene, Angie’s daughter, attests to the positive transformation she has witnessed in her mother, stating, “I see that she’s taking care of herself very well. She’s very much blossomed here. We know that she’s safe. That’s the main thing. And, she’s making new friends!” The assurance of safety and the flourishing social connections speak volumes about the holistic support that can be enjoyed at Fredericka Manor.

As you consider your retirement living options, let Fredericka Manor be the beacon guiding you toward a life filled with joy, friendship and endless possibilities. Embrace the extraordinary value of each year at Fredericka Manor — where community, activities and care converge to create a haven for a vibrant and fulfilling retirement.

Time is running out! Take advantage of 50% savings for a whole year on select accommodations at Fredericka Manor! Call (619) 205-4115 now for all the details. Learn more about this dynamic senior living community in Chula Vista at frederickamanor.org.

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One resident in particular inspired Joan and John to support their community: Steve Connor.

“Steve has been quite the inspiration to many here, including me and my husband,” Joan said. “He got us interested and shined a light on how we could make a difference through charitable giving.”

Steve, a longtime advocate for the work of the then Pacific Homes Foundation and its successor, the Front Porch Communities Foundation has made and does make in the lives of residents here,” Joan said. “And Keith is not only an advisor but has become a friend.” After weighing their philanthropic options, the Ransoms have been longtime donors to the Foundation in support of the Fredericka Manor Resident Assistance Fund. This “circle of friends” helps provide support for those at the community who outlive their resources.

“No one really knows what their financial situation may be years from now, so it’s important that if someone does run out of money they are able to keep living at Fredericka Manor,” Joan said. “I love it here, and I don’t want to see other people, who also love it here, to have to move out through no fault of theirs.”

Joan has also supported the Scholarship Fund, which provides grants to employees to help them pay for colleg,e trade school, or continuing education. She and John also decided to support Fredericka through planned giving, both opening charitable gift annuities through the Foundation that name Fredericka Manor as the beneficiary, while providing tax savings and generating lifetime income. John passed away in 2020, but Joan appreciates her CGA and the income it provides to her.

“It’s a good feeling knowing I’m helping others and making a difference,” Joan said. “I live here so it’s important that I support the people around me.”

The post Fredericka Manor Resident Inspired by Neighbor Who Makes a Difference appeared first on Front Porch.

Falls affect us all. The risk of falling increases with age. Falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults. If you slip, trip or fall, it could change your life. You could break a bone, take a trip to the hospital, be injured or develop a disability. Fear of falling may keep you from walking, shopping or taking part in social activities. Overcoming this fear can help you stay active, maintain your physical health and prevent future falls.

The good news is that there are simple ways and free online resources to reduce the risk of falling and help stay falls free. Here are some tips with hyperlinks on how to prevent most falls.

Exercise to Improve Your Balance and Strength

One easy way to prevent a fall is to improve balance and strength. The National Institute on Aging has tips on fitting EXERCISE AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY safely into daily life to help stay healthy as one ages. It also has tips with the right steps to take to PREVENT FALLS AND FRACTURES. Life enrichment and wellness directors offer many programs. Try walking, gardening, tai chi, yoga or whatever you enjoy.

Talk to Your Doctor or Pharmacist

Regularly review your medications and their side effects with your doctor or pharmacist. The National Council on Aging has a FALLS FREE CHECKUP that allows you to check your risk for a fall to help stay independent. Tell your doctor if you have fallen, even if not hurt. Get your vision and hearing tested. Ask a physical therapist about acquiring a walking aid if needed. Vitamin D and calcium can help keep your bones strong.

Make Your Home Safer

Make sure there are no cords, pet toys, loose rugs or excess furniture in your path. Clutter on your floors and around your home can make it more difficult to stay on your feet. Use the CDC STEADI initiative checklist to identify and ELIMINATE FALL HAZARDS in the home. Adequate lighting in hallways makes navigation easier. Ask an occupational therapist about a home safety evaluation.

Put in a request to add grab bars for the bathtub, shower and toilet if you think you need them.

Make Smart Choices

Be aware of personal abilities and limitations. Request help from someone for difficult or awkward tasks like retrieving objects on high shelves or carrying large or bulky items. The California Department of Aging’s FALL PREVENTION PROGRAM has fall and injury prevention education and information. Stand up slowly with your feet under you. Wear proper footwear. Don’t drink alcohol to excess.

Educate Yourself Today

Understanding fall risks is the first step to staying safer, reducing the risk of falling and helping stay falls free. Check out the free resources above for practical prevention solutions to do the right exercises, take proper care of yourself, make your home safer and ask for help when you need it.

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Senior Director for Resident Experience Rebecca Johnson created the program to support residents’ connection to the community and to one another. “We feel a sense of place but don’t necessarily articulate it,” says Johnson. This program allows residents to gather over time “to capture in your words why you feel as you do.”

Each Front Porch community has its own unique geography, Johnson explains. “When we hear the word geography we think, ‘mountains, landscapes,’ which is certainly part of it,” she says. “But geography is also everything that humans build. When we wrote the program, we were intentional about discussing both the physical and social aspects of geography.”

Sense of Place provides a safe environment for people who may not normally speak up in the community to address concerns. “Sense of Place is outside of the committee or council structure,” says Johnson. “Sometimes residents are looking for a new way to share their voice, a less formal way beyond the surveys and the committees that are already in place.”

“I marvel at people who have the ability to come forward and speak their thoughts,” said one resident participant at Friends House in Santa Rosa. “It doesn’t come as naturally to me, but after listening to others, I feel I can talk like that. I feel comfortable here. I feel I’m in the right place.”

Jeannie Pressey, executive director of Spring Lake Village in Santa Rosa says that Sense of Place is “an additional opportunity to gain insight from the residents on what’s working well and what they would like to see improved.”

Unlike a resident survey that provides a quantitative snapshot of the community at a moment in time, Sense of Place collects qualitative information that “puts the how, why, and what together in one place,” explains Mary McMullin, chief advancement officer for Front Porch. “A survey will tell us you think your community is great. Sense of Place allows us to understand why you think it’s great. It helps us identify rather than guess about the true community that’s here.”

Because residents were speaking directly with someone in person or on Zoom “instead of simply filling out the boxes on a survey, I feel that they were more comfortable in sharing their viewpoints,” Pressey notes. “And their views were clearly communicated as opposed to checking a box that says ‘are you satisfied? 1, 2, 3.’ You get some context on what people are trying to say.”

The program was open to any residents who wanted to participate, and a range of residents chose to join. “Having new and long-term residents in the same setting was critical,” Johnson says. She notes that newer residents who may have only experienced their community in the wake of the COVID pandemic with its lockdown protocols have a very different perspective than long-term residents who can recall and explain a community’s traditions. Meeting together gave residents a broader perspective on what community feels like based on their individual experiences.

Johnson compiled insights gathered during each session into reports for each participating community’s executive director, incorporating resident feedback, key questions, and recommendations for follow-up programs. Mark Nitsche, who became the executive director of San Francisco Towers during the Sense of Place pilot program, read the reports as a way to became familiar with the community. They allowed him to “really listen to what people are saying,” he recalls.

“People believe the ED is the last word, but it’s collaborative,” Nitsche says. Sense of Place allowed residents “to be a voice for the community and how you want to see community going forward. The program builds a sense of awareness, a sense of hope, and a sense of belonging.”

After testing the program as a pilot project at three Front Porch communities in 2022, Sense of Place is preparing to launch in more communities this year and may later be developed for use beyond the Front Porch system. Johnson is also gathering a working group to develop a new program called ATLAS, designed specifically for the new resident experience.

“Sense of Place is an influencer in decision making,” Johnson says. “It’s a platform for prioritizing the things that mean the most to residents, and one of those priorities is how residents, especially new residents, develop a sense of belonging and attachment in community. ATLAS is our natural next step.

“I’ve learned so much from the resident participants by leading this program. Each community is unique, with its own sense of place. This program has helped me to understand at a deep level what’s important for residents in their particular community. I can’t wait to discover more as we move forward with Sense of Place.”

The post At Front Porch Communities, Residents Discover their ‘Sense of Place’ appeared first on Front Porch.

1. Free Yourself from the Burdens and Expenses of Home Ownership

From raking leaves and taking out the trash to washing clothes, cooking meals and cleaning house, there’s always something that needs to be done when you’re living in your own home. At Fredericka Manor, we take care of those mundane tasks by doing them for you. Additionally, living here means you are free to pursue old and new pastimes

2. We’re Here to Support Healthy Living

From yoga, strength training, balance classes and more, fitness is essential to your well-being as an older adult. In many cases, the benefits of exercising on a day-to-day basis offset the risk factors. Even medical conditions can be improved with fitness, including memory loss, heart disease, obesity, and high blood pressure. At Fredericka Manor, we offer a variety of programs, classes and opportunities for you to stay fit.

3. We Have Life Enrichment Programs for Body, Mind and Spirit

Meeting and being with others is one of the top reasons why many people make the switch to living in a senior living community. If your weekly agenda is lacking, but you want an engaging social life, then Fredericka Manor may be your perfect match. You can play a game of dart baseball, join a music group, book club or a bridge or poker game to meet new friends. Residents enjoy calendars full of fun and exciting learning opportunities.

4. Experience Enhanced Safety & Security

Although you may not need help with personal care, unfortunately accidents can still happen. Household falls and injuries could occur, and if you live alone, the thought of not receiving the help you need can be a little scary. At Fredericka Manor, we offer emergency response systems in all of our accommodations to maintain peace of mind and staff is available 24/7. For residents with more advanced health issues, we offer memory care services and 24-hour skilled nursing care.

5. Enjoy Delicious Meals Served in a Beautiful Dining Environment

Tired of going through the hassle of cooking, buying groceries and washing dishes? At Fredericka Manor experience nutritious, freshly-prepared meals made by culinary chefs. As a bonus, our restaurant-style dining room encourages spending mealtimes with friends and family, making each gathering a fun social event that you will look forward to.

6. Learn, Grow and Travel with Your Friends at Fredericka Manor

Aging doesn’t put a stop for your need to grow and explore the world around you. Fredericka Manor can make it easier to get out and discover exciting new experiences through planned excursions and travel. You will enjoy group outings to The Old Globe, San Diego Symphony, Balboa Park, Little Italy, Seaport Village, Gaslamp Quarter, Coronado Island, Downtown San Diego, USS Midway Museum, Petco Park and Old Towne, just to name a few.

7. Fredericka Manor is Sound Financial Choice
The good news is that many of the services and amenities you desire are included in the monthly fee at Fredericka Manor. If you were to pay for all of these separately, you’d soon realize how quickly the costs add up. From gourmet meals to utilities to transportation and gym memberships, you’ll find that a move to Fredericka Manor is a good lifestyle and financial choice.

Schedule your tour of Fredericka Manor today by calling 800-310-4696 or by emailing FMsales@frontporch.net

The post 7 Compelling Reasons You should Make the Move to Fredericka Manor Now appeared first on Front Porch.

Although Fredericka Manor opened in 1908, the original lily pond was built into the natural landscape in 1967, the same year the community’s adjacent Ashbury Towers first welcomed residents and offered them breathtaking views of San Diego’s South Bay. The pond was an instant hit. It offers residents the perfect place to people watch, exercise, enjoy activities, meditate or just relish the sights and sounds of its gentle waterfall. The resident dining room enjoys a bird’s eye view of the pond, which many  residents have exquisitely captured in oil, watercolor and other mediums.

“It was the vision of architectural firm Neptune and Associates to install the pond in the late 60s,” said current Executive Director Craig Sumner, who began his career at Fredericka more than 25 years ago as a landscaper. “I think it was their way to create a distinctive landmark here and set us apart from other senior living communities. The lily pond has always been a resident favorite. It’s definitely a highlight of the community.”

The pond not only attracts residents but wildlife as well, like ducks, Snowy Egrets, Blue Heron and turtles. It is also home to Koi and in its early days, bass and carp.

It even charmed famed San Diego aquatic plant enthusiast Walter Pagels, who donated various varieties of water lilies he collected from around the world, including the variety named for him by the International Waterlily and Water Gardening Society. It is a similar white lily that graces the Fredericka Manor logo today.

In 2021, the pond received a facelift making it more water conservation efficient and structurally sound, which will allow it to delight the community for decades to come. Designers added a babbling brook between the upper and lower portions and planted 125 species of drought tolerant plants, trees and shrubs in and around the pond including milk weed and other plants that attract butterflies. Landscapers brought in rocks and small boulders from Alpine, a small town in the Cuyamaca Mountains of San Diego County.

An outdoor dining and social area and pergola are being added next to the pond, the perfect place for residents to enjoy the mild San Diego weather year around.

The lily pond adds to the small-town feel of the community that includes charming streets, manicured lawns, lovely cottages and light-drenched apartments. It’s a place where everyone knows their neighbors. Fredericka Manor offers a full menu of life enrichment opportunities, resident-led clubs and programs. Residents are encouraged to continue pursuing their passions or learn something new.

Fredericka Manor offers residential and assisted living, skilled nursing and memory care.

Come see our pond and all of the other amazing features at Fredericka Manor by scheduling your tour today at 619-205-4112 or FMsales@frontporch.net.

The post Fredericka Manor Lily Pond Has Been a Community Icon for Decades appeared first on Front Porch.

“He felt lucky and we feel extremely lucky to have him,” Nancy said about their mixed breed white terrier. “So it’s really an appropriate name for him.”

Lucky came to Nancy and David as a result of a re-home situation. “We wanted an older dog, not a puppy,” Nancy said. “We’re not puppies ourselves so the older dog was really ideal for us.”

Fredericka Manor is not only the perfect home for Nancy and David, but for Lucky too. Its 24 acres of mature landscape and serene lily pond are perfect for enjoying the San Diego sunshine, a full menu of social, cultural and well-being opportunities and of course plenty of walks with Lucky.

“Lucky gets us out at least twice a day for walks,” David said. “He likes to visit our neighbors. Some of them like to eat on their front porches and he’ll visit them for breakfast. And one gentleman, every time he drives by, has to stop and open his car door and say hi. Lucky’s got a lot of friends here like we do. Fredericka is a wonderful little town.”

Even people who don’t know Nancy and David are happy to see Lucky. “He’s so soft to touch and it makes them feel good and it makes us feel good,” Nancy said. “He’s a good little ice breaker for meeting new people. We really love him and we’re glad Fredericka Manor loves dogs as much as we do.”

As David said, Fredericka Manor is reminiscent of small-town living. Its classic charm, quiet streets dotted with cottages, colorful rose gardens, a putting green and a lily pond make living easy and fun.

The post Pet Friendly Fredericka Manor is the Perfect Home for Nancy, David and Lucky appeared first on Front Porch.

Fortunately, after arriving at their new home in Chula Vista, Ron and Carol realized that they were not going to have to go through this process alone. “After unpacking our boxes we were exhausted. Danny, from maintenance, stopped by to introduce himself. When I asked him where I could find a recycling center, he just smiled and said, ‘Just put them on the front porch and we will take them away.’ I almost gave him a big hug.  It was such a huge relief.”

Fredericka Manor offers the same level of support for daily living. Carol is grateful to be free from the burden of owning a house and handling everything from household repairs to medical care and cooking.

“When the washer and dryer breaks, they fix it, and they mow the lawn,” she said. “I use the doctor who is right here on campus, and they come to my home for lab work so I don’t have to go to the office. The convenience of living at Fredericka Manor is phenomenal.”

Although her living space was downsized, she doesn’t miss it, because she has a fulfilling life within the community that’s filled with activities, other people and joy. Carol considers the exercise and line dancing classes essential to maintaining her good health and balance.  She also enjoys playing bocce and dart baseball, is a member of a women’s Bible study club and serves as treasurer of the resident-run Fredericka Club.

Fredericka Manor offers independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing and memory care all on campus.

Prior to Ron’s passing in December 2020, when his health began to decline, Carol said it was incredibly helpful that he was cared for right here on campus, “I could visit with him every day.” She realized, “My life is here now. I have made so many new friends who care about me.”

“I have to actually schedule time to read,” she said with a laugh. “This is such an alive, thriving place, with social activity and interaction and things to do to stay engaged.”

Come see our charming community for yourself. And if you decide to make Fredericka your new home, we can help you choose the perfect size residence, help you downsize and move in. Make 2022 the “year of Fredericka!” Schedule a tour today by calling 619.205.4115 or by emailing fmsales@frontporch.net.

About Fredericka Manor

Fredericka Manor is a multi-level San Diego senior citizen housing community known for its lush and mature landscape, charming streets, lovely cottages and warm small-town feel. These Chula Vista senior homes, along with the Fredericka Manor Care Center, have been an iconic part of the surrounding area for generations. 

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