“That survey really yielded a lot more for me than I thought it would,” Mary said. “It affirmed my belief that we were doing a lot of the right things.”

Front Porch communities are making individual decisions to conserve and support the environment, and the overall impact is significant. More than half of Front Porch’s communities have replaced incandescent bulbs with energy efficient LEDs; half have drought-resistant landscaping and water efficient irrigation systems; almost two-thirds have electric vehicle charging stations; and virtually all support recycling efforts, including e-waste. On top of this, individual communities have made individual choices that support green practices, such as Meatless Mondays, tankless water heaters, and solar power projects installed or under consideration.

Nancy Frost, a resident of Canterbury Woods in Pacific Grove, has been encouraging the community’s environmental efforts since she moved in more than 10 years ago. A former employee of the Environmental Protection Agency, Nancy has developed Earth Day programs to keep residents and staff informed about the individual steps they can take. This year, in keeping with the Earth Day theme of Planet vs. Plastics, she is preparing an educational program about plastics, including how to manage the film plastics that are recyclable but not collected by waste haulers.

She’s also educating about hidden plastics. “There’s lots of things that contain plastic that we don’t think about, like tea bags and bottle caps, that you can’t put in a recycle bin,” Nancy explains. “Take away paper cups and paper food containers, they’re all lined with plastic. That makes them trash, not recyclable. So what do you do instead? You get a mug and instead of taking the paper container, you get one of the reusable plastic containers.”

Nancy urges people to take things one step at a time. “One of my display boards for Earth Day this year is going to be Kermit the Frog, and it says, ‘It’s not easy being green, but it’s do-able,’” Nancy says. “I think that’s really wonderful way to put it. It’s just minor little changes. They add up and they add up. And if one year you make a change in one direction, and then you keep that in the next year, you add another one. You don’t have to do it all at the same time. You prioritize what you can do and start doing it.”

At Vista del Monte in Santa Barbara, Executive Director Doug Tucker has been working with the community and prioritizing water conservation in multiple ways. When he first arrived, the community was reviewing its landscaping which had included a lawn in the middle of the campus. “The residents had a slogan: ‘Brown is the new gold’ because they couldn’t water the grass,” he says. The community replaced the water-greedy grass with faux grass in the middle park area and then replanted most of the campus’s landscaping with drought tolerant planting.

But that was only the first step. The community is waiting for final approval from the City of Santa Barbara to engage in phase two. “What we instructed the landscape architect to do is to utilize water saving technologies,” Doug explains. “Some of the things that we’re focusing on is storm water management and returning water back to the groundwater, so we’re putting in permeable pavers, bio basins, and a 3000 gallon catch basin at the entrances and throughout the campus that will move water around the campus for stormwater management, but also to help return water to the aquifers.”

Although the community is allotted 848,000 gallons of water a year for landscaping, it is estimated that with the landscaping changes, the community will only use about 453,000 gallons annually. The landscaping project and its efforts toward water conservation continues the theme that was originally started about 8 years ago, Doug says.

“I’m a firm believer in being an environmental steward,” Doug says. “Being in Santa Barbara with the type of community and the number of residents that we serve, I think that we have a great opportunity to show our environmental stewardship with a lot of the programs that we bring to the community.”

“When you adopt green practices, in order for it to be effective, it has to be personal,” says Mary. “The shift in our communities is exciting to see. Perhaps we need to adjust and reinvent as we move along, but this information about our green practices as an organization gives us a foundation that we up until now really haven’t had.”

In reviewing the Green Initiatives survey, Mary says, “I think that sitting for a moment and taking an inventory of everybody’s good ideas was inspirational. Now that we’ve pulled all this information together, we can actually strategize around it.”

The post Earth Day every day through Front Porch’s green initiatives appeared first on Front Porch.

This walkable neighborhood around Webster House provides those fortunate enough to live in this boutique community easy access to both cultural and culinary experiences that will fill your days. Whether you are interested in the evening concerts at the local Methodist Church or simply want to linger at a local café, the activities you enjoy are only a couple of blocks away.

A stroll down University Avenue provides a wide range of restaurants and shops to choose from. Local favorites for Webster House residents include Café Mademoiselle Colette, Verve Coffee, Redwood Café and Café Venetia, which are all within easy walking distance of their low-rise apartment homes. This accessibility highlights the essence of independent living in Palo Alto, where convenience and community go hand in hand.

For those interested in expanding their horizons or showing their support for the Cardinal, Stanford University is only one mile away, presenting even more opportunities for engagement and exploration. This proximity to such a prestigious institution further enhances the appeal of Webster House as a premiere choice for senior living in the Palo Alto area. You can also participate in community events, such as the local farmers market or community garden.

Living in a walkable neighborhood is increasingly recognized as a key component of healthy, sustainable living. The essence of a walkable community lies in its ability to support an active lifestyle, foster social interactions and provide easy access to daily necessities and amenities. Webster House, nestled in the heart of downtown Palo Alto, exemplifies the pinnacle of walkable living, offering residents a unique blend of convenience, community and wellbeing.

Research has consistently shown that walkable neighborhoods contribute significantly to physical health by encouraging physical activity. Moreover, the Webster House community itself provides residents with a host of wellness activities, an outdoor heated pool, fine dining and access to care and support. The intimate community ensures that you’ll know your neighbors and find connections and camaraderie. 

In addition to the rich amenities and cultural opportunities highlighted, Webster House is also at the forefront of offering luxury senior living in Palo Alto. Each apartment is designed with the comfort and convenience of its residents in mind, ensuring a high standard of living that caters to the specific needs of seniors. The modern finishes and thoughtful layouts provide an unmatched level of elegance and functionality, making it easy for residents to feel truly at home.

Beyond the physical comforts, Webster House places a strong emphasis on creating a vibrant and supportive community atmosphere. Regularly scheduled social events, classes and gatherings encourage residents to engage with one another, fostering a sense of belonging and community spirit. This aspect of social interaction is crucial for a fulfilling senior living experience, allowing residents to form meaningful connections and enjoy their golden years to the fullest.

Safety and security are paramount at Webster House, with measures in place to ensure that residents feel secure at all times. From emergency response systems in each apartment to the presence of attentive staff around the clock, every detail has been considered to provide peace of mind for both residents and their loved ones.

The commitment to wellness extends to the dining experiences offered at Webster House. Nutritionally balanced chef-prepared meals are available, featuring a variety of cuisines to cater to diverse palates and dietary needs. Dining together not only provides nutritional benefits but also serves as another opportunity for residents to connect and share stories over delicious food.

Palo Alto is a culinary haven with an impressive array of dining options all within walking distance. From the comforting ambiance of Fambrini’s Café to the innovative dishes at Son & Garden and the exquisite Mediterranean flavors at Evvia Estiatorio, there’s something to satisfy every craving. The diverse and vibrant restaurant scene around Webster House ensures that residents have access to some of the best dining experiences Palo Alto has to offer, making every meal and adventure waiting to be discovered.

Choosing Webster House means embracing a lifestyle where every need is met with care and every day offers new possibilities for joy and fulfillment. It represents the pinnacle of senior living in Palo Alto.

Come take a walk around Webster House! Schedule a tour and see for yourself how life here seamlessly blends comfort, culture and community, major factors when looking for senior living in Palo Alto. Experience firsthand why Webster House is not just a place to live, but a place to thrive.

The post Walkable Webster House in the Heart of Palo Alto appeared first on Front Porch.

Michael was inspired to put on the fashion show at Kingsley Manor, a senior living community in Los Angeles, because older generations are so often forgotten by the fashion industry. “I wanted to bring awareness to fashionable seniors,” Michael noted. “[Acting is] one of the few industries where you see seniors represented but you don’t see them much in fashion. I want to showcase older adults who love fashion.”

A Fashion-Filled Evening

For residents participating in the fashion show, the afternoon kicked off with having their hair and makeup professionally done by stylists who work in the film industry. After getting gussied up, Michael and four wardrobe stylists styled residents in special outfits chosen specifically for the runway that night. 

While resident models were busy getting ready, the Kurt Szul and Friends jazz band set the mood with soft tunes while guests snacked on hors d’oeuvres out on the Kingsley Manor patio. Fifty Kingsley Manor residents were joined by sixty outside guests in the audience to witness this fun and fashionable evening.

The show kicked off by showcasing clothing designed by Preston Douglas, who specializes in creating clothing pieces for dancers. Professional dancers hit the stage featuring Preston’s designs, dancing their way down the catwalk to showcase the versatility and movement in his pieces.

Following the dance portion of the event, the show paused for an intermission accompanied by music by DJ Daniel Gonzalez. With spirits high from the first half of the show and inspired by what they had just witnessed, guests broke into an impromptu dance party, moved by the DJ’s tunes.

The dance-filled intermission set the perfect stage for the second half of the show dedicated to the resident models. Michael notes that some of the residents were shy at the prospect of walking in a fashion show but his favorite part of the evening was “seeing residents blossom into the night” as they got more comfortable.

The resident portion of the show was broken into two sections, the first group of residents was styled by Michael while the second group was styled by volunteer wardrobe stylists. Participants walked and rolled down the runway, flaunting their outfits and bright smiles. Michael shared that “one model took it upon herself to kick it up a notch and stole the show. She had feared that she wouldn’t be able to fully participate but she took the moment in and completely embraced being on the runway.”

The audience and residents alike had a great deal of fun at the event and feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. “[The residents] want to do it again,” Michael shared. They’ve even asked to do another fashion show as soon as this summer. “I can’t even put into words how great it was,” Michael shared, reflecting on the event. “It brings me so much joy to see our residents light up.”

Future Events at Kingsley Manor

Michael is busy planning for upcoming events at Kingsley Manor. Currently, he is working on a Light Up the Block festival in August that will shut down the block in front of Kingsley Manor and transform it into a block party. Michael is looking to “light up the block with positivity,” and plans to feature local performers and invite the wider East Hollywood community, including the city council. To keep up to date with events at Kingsley Manor, check out the Kingsley Manor Facebook page and the senior living community’s website.

The fashion show is just one example of the eclectic events available to residents at Kingsley Manor. If you would like to learn more about the benefits of senior living in Los Angeles, check out our blog post all about the highlights of living at Kingsley Manor in East Hollywood.

Join Our Community!

If this dynamic lifestyle sounds appealing to you, we invite you to take a closer look at our community. We’re more than just a senior living community in Los Angeles, we’re a family. Experience Kingsley Manor for yourself by booking a tour.

The post A Night of Glitz and Glamour on the Kingsley Manor Catwalk appeared first on Front Porch.

This prestigious list was compiled after analysis of over 500,000 customer reviews across 60,000 facilities. Such a distinction speaks volumes about the quality of life and satisfaction experienced by our residents and their families. “This award is a reflection of our dedicated staff, whose efforts make Casa de Mañana not just a living space, but a community where life is enriched, valued, and celebrated,” said Executive Director Kurt Norden.

Being selected in the top five is no small feat. The criteria for selection were stringent, requiring communities to rank in the top two percent based on consumer sentiment, maintain a clear record free of licensing violations for the past 36 months, and have no negative media coverage in the last 24 months.

At Casa de Mañana, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive range of services, from independent and assisted living to a variety of contract options, ensuring flexibility and peace of mind for our residents and their families​​. We’re proud to be recognized by Seniorly and remain committed to providing outstanding care and service for residents. This accolade motivates us to continue innovating and enhancing our services, making sure that Casa de Mañana, and indeed all Front Porch communities, represent the very best in senior living.

For more information about Casa de Mañana, visit our website at casademanana.org or call 800-959-7010.

To read the full announcement, visit Seniorly.com.

The post Celebrating Excellence: Casa de Mañana Earns Top Honors in Senior Living Awards 2024 appeared first on Front Porch.

As she delved deeper into her life at Vista del Monte, Judy learned about the Front Porch Communities Foundation through her new friends and neighbors. Their praises for the Foundation’s work resonated with Judy’s own values.

Eager to give back and be a part of something larger than herself, she discovered the benefits of a charitable gift annuity (CGA). A CGA offered Judy the chance to donate in a way that was both meaningful and financially prudent. Through this gift plan, available through the Foundation, her gift annuity was funded by a Qualified Charitable Distribution, free of taxes, directly from her individual retirement account. The CGA provides Judy with lifetime income at a set rate. And after she passes away, the Foundation will receive the balance of her generous contribution to support the community she loves. “The numbers just worked for me,” she explained. “It was a win-win situation.”

“It was important for me to be part of the tradition of giving at this community,” Judy said. Her donation is designated for the Vista del Monte discretionary fund, which is directed to meet the community’s most pressing needs. Judy does have certain causes close to her heart. She is particularly passionate about the Resident Assistance Fund, which serves as a “circle of friends” to help support residents who outlive their resources, and the Scholarship Fund, which helps Front Porch team members pursue their education goals. Her dream is for her contribution to also benefit the Fitness and Aquatic Center and the Caring Companions program, which trains resident volunteers to check on the well-being of other residents and offer one-on-one support.

“For many, there is a feeling in the back of our minds that we may run out of money and as a result, no longer be able to live at Vista. Having a resident assistance fund gives you a sense of security. I wanted to contribute to that,” Judy said.

Her personal history played a major role in her support of the scholarship fund. “I’m a strong believer in education. I went to college on a scholarship, and I want others to have that same opportunity.” At Vista del Monte, Judy found not only a home but a purpose. Her journey turned out to be more than just a change of address; it became a journey of community, generosity, and shared dreams.

The post A New Chapter of Generosity for Judy Gilbert at Vista del Monte appeared first on Front Porch.

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A Haven of Activities

East Hollywood is a bustling district filled to the brim with entertainment and cultural attractions. Within a 4-mile radius of Kingsley Manor, you’ll find treasures like the Griffith Observatory for the stargazers, the Greek Theatre for music lovers, and local parks like Barnsdall Art Park for those who enjoy serene nature walks.

Griffith Observatory

For those with their hearts in the cosmos, the Griffith Observatory offers an exciting journey into the mysteries of the universe. Experience the breath-taking views of the night sky through the Zeiss telescope, attend a live demonstration at the Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon or simply marvel at the beautiful architecture of the Observatory itself. And don’t worry, accessibility is taken care of with ramps, elevators, and wheelchairs available for those who need them.

The Greek Theatre

Music enthusiasts, rejoice! The Greek Theatre is a world-renowned venue that hosts a variety of concerts and performances. Whether you’re a fan of jazz, classical, pop, or rock, there’s always something to pique your interest. Plus, with comfortable seating and excellent acoustics, it’s a pleasure for all ages. Enjoy an evening concert under the stars, or catch a matinee performance to beat the late-night crowds.

Barnsdall Art Park

For the nature lovers and art enthusiasts, Barnsdall Art Park is a true gem. Embark on a leisurely stroll through the olive groves, sit by the peaceful pond or take part in the weekly art workshops tailored for seniors. The park is also home to the famous Hollyhock House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, making it a must-visit for architecture buffs. Wheelchair paths and benches are scattered throughout the park, ensuring a relaxing visit.

Indulge in Delectable Cuisine

For the food enthusiasts, living at Kingsley Manor in East Hollywood is a paradise. A melting pot of cultures, you’ll find a diverse array of cuisines right at your doorstep.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the renowned Pacific French Bakery, where the scent of freshly baked bread and pastries fills the air. For lunch, a visit to Marouch is a must. This local favorite offers a taste of authentic Armenian and Lebanese cuisine. Capping off the day, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at Sushidan-LA, an authentic sushi restaurant offering an array of fresh sushi and sashimi options. Living in Los Angeles is not just about the sights, but also the delightful gastronomical journey.

Kingsley Manor: Your Home in East Hollywood

Its East Hollywood location isn’t the only thing that makes Kingsley Manor stand out from other retirement communities in Los Angeles. Residents enjoy the perfect blend of relaxation and activity, with access to a plethora of amenities and events at this senior living community. Relax on the rooftop patios with views of Los Angeles, explore a new medium in art class and enjoy delicious meals in the dining room. Kingsley Manor embodies the vibrant spirit of East Hollywood while also providing the comfort and care essential to senior living.

Join Our Community!

If this dynamic lifestyle sounds appealing to you, we invite you to take a closer look at our community. We’re more than just a senior living community in Los Angeles, we’re a family. Experience Kingsley Manor for yourself by booking a tour.

The post Discover the Joys of Senior Living in East Hollywood appeared first on Front Porch.

The post Discover the Joys of Senior Living in East Hollywood appeared first on Front Porch.

At Sunny View, a Front Porch community in Cupertino, the scholarship fund was initially started with a gift from resident Wally Norum and his late wife Priscilla.

“It gives me a great sense of pride to help others who just need a little help to get to the next level in their careers,” Wally said. “My pride is most affected when I get a hug of gratitude from a scholarship recipient. It becomes an emotional event.”

Inspired by Wally’s generosity, other residents and family members of residents contribute to the fund as well. Since its inception in 2015, 20 team members have received scholarships to make their educational goals a reality.

“It is so incredible that residents like the Norums show how much they love our team by creating such a gift,” said Lynn North, chair of the Sunny View Philanthropy Committee. “It shows that we are a loving community that cares for one another.”

One recent scholarship recipient is Sunny View’s chaplain, Sam Schaar, who has served Sunny View residents for the past three years.

“I am deeply appreciative of the scholarship I received, because it is helping me toward my goal of becoming a board certified chaplain,” Sam said. “My goal is to become an instructor in this training so I can help train future generations of chaplains.”

As chaplain, Sam seeks to meet the spiritual needs of residents at Sunny View. In order to do that, he must dive deeply into his own spiritual practices, including silence and poetry. Sam recently published a book of poetry called “Handles and Healing: Collected Poems.”

“The bulk of my time is spent connecting with residents,” Sam said. “This is the beating heart of what I do and, frankly, the part of my job which brings me the most joy. It can be difficult, to be sure, when you are talking with someone on hospice or sitting with grieving family members as their loved one is passing, or encouraging staff who are struggling — these types of experiences are tough; and yet, there is also the beauty of shared celebrations, recognizing special milestones and much more.”

“Our chaplaincy program has provided much needed spiritual support for our residents,” said Lynn. “We are blessed to have Sam’s beautiful and calm message, which has been such an inspiration to so many of our residents and team members.”

The post Building Brighter Futures with Scholarships for Front Porch Team Members appeared first on Front Porch.

The post Building Brighter Futures with Scholarships for Front Porch Team Members appeared first on Front Porch.

As the life enrichment director for Casa de Mañana, my goal as I plan events, outings and opportunities for engagement is to meet three very important criteria that I believe EVERY human being needs to THRIVE. Notice I didn’t say survive. I said THRIVE.

I try to create positive connections. Everyone needs positive connections in their daily lives. Many researchers believe the estimated 68,000 seniors who died of non-COVID related/non-medical related deaths during the pandemic died from failure to thrive, due to lack of connecting with their loved ones. Creating positive connections is vital!

I try to create something to look forward to. If you ask most people, “What are you doing tomorrow?” I can almost guarantee you that they won’t say that they are staying in bed all day and watching TV. And if they do say that, it’s a concern. When people don’t have things to look forward to, they don’t have a reason to get out of their comfortable, cozy bed, so they don’t. The problem with that is they aren’t creating those positive connections and they don’t feel purposeful (the third thing on my list). When that happens, people tend to get bored and depressed and then end up with failure to thrive. It is very hard to change that once it sets in. It becomes comfortable, but it is not good for anyone.

I try to create a sense of purpose. Many people believe that getting old means you can’t do much, especially those who may need more help with certain care issues or cognitive issues. That is simply NOT TRUE. Everyone needs to have a sense of purpose, otherwise, what’s the point of getting out of bed or making connections? Many of our residents help out in our store, our trading post, walking dogs for those who need help and even visiting other residents who have difficulty with getting out. That is just to name a few things. There are so many helpers and leaders in our community. But what about the others? Well, they can help in other ways too. I may ask them to read something while I type it. I may ask them to join a group where they can voice their opinion to make things brighter or better here. I may ask them to help a resident who can’t see with their Bingo card. It doesn’t have to be a “save the world” purpose. People just need to know that they matter, that they are important and that they do have a purpose, because they do!

So the activities you see are more than activities. Behind the scenes, I focus on creating programming that give residents opportunities to create connections, have something to look forward to (a reason to get out of bed) and find a sense of purpose so that they can THRIVE every day! I am also a certified Positive Approach to Care trainer and coach and use my knowledge of dementia for training and coaching along with programming when I have the opportunity.

Developing activities is not about keeping busy. It really is Life Enrichment.

The post Life Enrichment: Behind the scenes at Casa de Mañana appeared first on Front Porch.

The post Life Enrichment: Behind the scenes at Casa de Mañana appeared first on Front Porch.

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.

The post Fredericka Manor to Debut Expanded Memory Care Accommodations appeared first on Front Porch.

The post Fredericka Manor to Debut Expanded Memory Care Accommodations appeared first on Front Porch.

When you become a resident, get ready to dive into a lifestyle with top-notch amenities, services and a wide range of social activities. Our life enrichment programs are designed to cater to a variety of interests, guaranteeing that there’s always something for everyone to enjoy. Join us and experience a vibrant retirement living community that will exceed your expectations!

Pet lovers will find a warm welcome at Wesley Palms, including a dedicated dog park for your furry companions. You may even get an invitation to a community Yappy Hour. San Diego has the perfect climate for year-round enjoyment of our relaxed, casual ambiance for you and your pet.

Culinary delights are a cornerstone of life at Wesley Palms. Not only can you savor chef-prepared meals crafted from fresh ingredients in our stunning indoor-outdoor dining area, with views of Mission Bay and the Pacific. The dining experiences at Wesley Palms means you’re making meaningful connections with friends and neighbors too.

Join our Wesley Palms retirement community in San Diego and step into a community that cares for your well-being but also nurtures your passions. Discover our unique move-in offers by calling 858-274-4110 or emailing WPsales@frontporch.net and arrange a personal tour to experience Wesley Palms firsthand.

The post Make Living at Wesley Palms Part of Your New Year’s Resolution | Senior Living in San Diego appeared first on Front Porch.

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