Q: What is a continuing care retirement community?Continuing care communities offer licensed programs for increasing levels of assistance designed to meet the changing health and service needs of residents -- all on the same campus. San Joaquin Gardens has four levels of living; residential, assisted, memory support and health center.
Back to TopQ: What is assisted living?Assisted living is for residents who need more help with the activities of daily living but do not require nursing care. Friendly, trained staff at The Lodge are available 24 hours a day to help with meals; dressing; personal hygiene; and medications.
Back to TopQ: I always thought retirement communities were for people who are very old and feeble. Am I too young to move there?Many residents move in to enhance their active lifestyle, with the added benefit of not having to worry about the future. Some people make the mistake of waiting too long to make their decision. As a result, when a health issue arises, it very often disqualifies them from our continuing care program. At that point, people are in a position where they are shuffled in and out of a variety of facilities, managing crisis after crisis. This can be a great strain on seniors and their families.
Back to TopQ: Do I have to be Baptist to live here?Absolutely not. All ABHOW communities are non-sectarian and non-discriminatory, and are enjoyed by all individuals regardless of faith or personal convictions.
Back to TopQ: I've heard that only wealthy people can afford San Joaquin Gardens. Is that true?No. If you own a home and have some retirement income, you will probably find San Joaquin Gardens affordable. Anyone who has looked at San Joaquin Gardens, or has had their financial advisors evaluate us, knows we are a well-planned, secure, affordable retirement option.
Back to TopQ: Is it true that I would have to sign over all my assets to San Joaquin Gardens?No, this is absolutely not true. Residents choose our continuing care plan for the full levels of services it provides, and are informed of two fees – the entrance fee, and the monthly fee. Your entrance fee is based on the size of apartment you choose. Your monthly fee pays for your services and amenities. This plan offers financial stability and peace of mind, as multi-level services and living arrangements are included and you know in advance what these are. This plan provides the security residents want in their retirement years.
Back to TopQ: Aren't there a lot of hidden costs?No, we are very up-front about all of our costs. People are very pleased to find that their monthly fee includes just about everything; maintenance, activities, utilities, housekeeping, emergency service and a flexible meal plan. If you have questions, we urge you to visit with us to see first hand the benefits of San Joaquin Gardens. Also, feel free to have your financial advisor join us during our discussions.
Back to TopQ: How does San Joaquin Gardens use our fees?Entrance fees are used to cover major capital improvements in the community, fund any operating deficits, and fund reserves needed for future expenses. Monthly fees cover your share of the community’s operating expenses, including services and amenities. Your monthly fee may vary over time, with changes in the general economy. Our management is dedicated to utilizing funds wisely and carefully.
Back to TopQ: I often see the San Joaquin Gardens bus around town. Does that mean I have to give up my car?No. In fact, most of our residents still drive regularly and you will see their cars parked in their reserved, covered spaces at San Joaquin Gardens. Some residents, though, prefer not to drive their own cars and use our transportation for excursions in bad weather or to avoid trying the find a good parking space.
San Joaquin Gardens does encourage residents to use the free transportation we offer. This saves residents money, helps the environment, and enables people to maintain their active, independent lifestyle. Our transportation makes it easy to get to shopping areas and medical appointments.
Back to TopQ: I'm looking for a good retirement community to move to, but there is no point in calling San Joaquin Gardens. They are always full, right?San Joaquin Gardens has always maintained one of the highest occupancy rates in our region, because people trust our program and like our accomodations. But apartments do become available regularly, so prospective residents should let our staff know what apartment options they would prefer. A limited selection of apartment homes have recently become available.
Back to TopQ: Will San Joaquin Gardens feel like a real home and community?Residents say San Joaquin Gardens has an exceptional “family feeling,” and that the atmosphere of kinship and cheer is unmatched. They say that San Joaquin Gardens feels a lot like their previous home, with the bonus of health care security, resources, and services added!
Back to TopQ: How will I know if I have enough money to live in this community?Our staff can assist you in analyzing your finances and helping you project assets and income that will be needed. You are welcome to bring your own financial advisor in to consult with you on the process, as you examine this option.
Back to TopQ: How will I go about making this important decision, weighing pros and cons?We urge you to visit San Joaquin Gardens and meet some of our residents. Ask our staff your particular questions. We will welcome your visit and be glad to assist you however we can!
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