Senior housing options aren’t what they used to be, which is to say, they’re no longer limited to so-called nursing homes.
They come in all sizes, price ranges and locations (rural, suburban, urban). And the array of services, amenities and levels of care are varied and vast as well.
Frankly, the options are almost dizzying.
How can you tell them apart?
Answer: Tour them.
Web sites and brochures are helpful, but they won’t tell you how a place feels.
Ask lots of questions. Take notes. Compare. Prioritize.
To give our readers an idea of what’s out there — especially what’s new and unusual — we’re kicking off an new occasional Good Age series called Housing Spotlight, featuring miniature profiles of local senior housing options.
Here’s quick look at Chateau Waters, a brand-new four-story facility in Sartell.
The 72-unit facility’s claim to fame is that it’s the first resort-style senior housing option in the St. Cloud area.
High-end stone and tile finishes give the apartment complex a luxury appeal, along with amenities focused on health and wellness, including an on-site manmade lake with walking trails and an in-house wellness center.
Chateau Waters
Where: 960 19th St. S., Sartell
Opening date: August 2016
Ages welcome: 55 and older
Number of units: 72 1- and 2-bedroom independent-living apartments with 12 different floor plans to choose from at 800 to 1,400 square feet
Cost: Rent starts at $2,600 a month and includes wireless Internet, utilities, a $150 restaurant credit for the restaurant.
Level of health care: Independent-living apartments with optional home-care assistance, which includes wellness checks and scheduled nurse visits focused on maintaining senior health.
Ownership: St. Cloud-based CentraCare Health is a nonprofit integrated health care system in St. Cloud that runs six hospitals, seven senior-care facilities, 18 clinics, four pharmacies and numerous inpatient and outpatient specialty-care services. Chateau Waters is one of CentraCare’s three St. Benedict’s Senior Community locations. The other two — in Monticello and St. Cloud — provide housing to more then 500 residents.
Info: 320-654-2352 or chateauwaters.com.
Amenities
- 24 private therapy suites connected to the building for patients recovering from an illness or injury that required hospitalization
- Concierge services
- Housekeeping, room service and laundry
- Grand entry, roaring fireplace and cozy seating areas
- Movie theatre, chapel and media center
- Art studio
- Gift shop
- Outdoor activities such as Multiple dining venues, including a bistro and a restaurant with a bar
- Venue for community events and performances
- Club room
- Guest suite
- Indoor storage units
- Heated underground parking
- Car wash
Wellness center features:
- Heated pool
- Spa services
- Massage therapy
- Personalized fitness programs
- Specialized equipment
- Yoga studio
- Exercise classes
- Personal trainers
- On-site dietician
- Full-service salon
Do you know of a new or interesting senior housing facility in the Twin Cities that might make a good Housing Spotlight? Write Minnesota Good Age editor Sarah Jackson at [email protected] with the subject line HOUSING SPOTLIGHT.