Myths About Retirement Living
At Parkland, we are reinventing the idea of retirement and creating a new era of premium, independent, living for people seeking to engage with life, not retire from it. We understand that making the move to retirement in a big decision and we are here to make the move as stress-free as possible by answering any questions you may have or dispelling any myths you may have heard about retirement living. Here are some common myths and misconceptions about retirement living that we have received.
Myth #1: It’s a nursing home
Parkland is not a nursing home. Offering a full-continuum of lifestyle options, even as residents’ needs change, their style of living doesn’t have to at Parkland. Whether you’re looking for a premium apartment with access to services and amenities or in search of supportive care options, residents and their families can have peace of mind that additional services, friendly staff and professional care are always nearby.
Myth #2: You will lose your independence
The lifestyle offered at Parkland is intended to promote independence, no matter how much or how little support you need. That’s because everything at Parkland is designed for your enjoyment and convenience. By offering flexibility and choice, you will have the necessary support to do the things you enjoy most independently, on your own time.
How, when and where you spend your time is completely up to you. At Parkland, you are welcome to come and go as you like. Many Parkland residents continue to use their personal vehicles however, if you would prefer not to drive, Parkland includes shuttle services in many monthly rent packages.
Read about Bob and how he spends his time as a Parkland resident.
Myth #3: Your living space will be too small and the décor will be outdated.
Parkland offers a range of apartment options from studio to two-bedroom plus den. Speak with the Lifestyle Consultant at the Parkland community nearest you for suite options, square footage and availability.
Each Parkland was designed with residents in mind. Our in-house design team creates every Parkland community with a classic transitional approach, considering every detail from high quality millwork to premium suite finishes and senior-friendly design aspects.
Our suites have spacious layouts with ample windows that invite plenty of natural light inside. Extra-wide doorways and hallways have been thoughtfully considered and integrated, and every suite has an emergency call system, for your peace of mind and security.
Myth #4: The food options are limited and bland
Parkland prides itself on an exceptional dining experience. Each Parkland community has an in-house executive chef that ensures menu choices are tailored to residents’ dietary concerns and preferences. The menu changes each season and the kitchen staff love getting feedback from their residents on what dishes they would like to see.
If your friends or family are visiting, you can invite them down to the dining room for a meal. On special occasions, residents can reserve a private dining room space and our kitchen would love to cater it for you.
In addition to having amazing restaurant-style dining in the community, if you enjoy baking and cooking, many suites come equipped with a full kitchen.
Myth #5: The activities held on-site are boring
While living at a Parkland retirement community you will be engaged in customized seniors’ activities and programs designed to stimulate your mind, body and soul. Parkland is more than just your home, it’s a community. It’s where you’ll spend time laughing with neighbours, enjoying evenings with friends and most of all, staying healthy with activities and programs offered exclusively to you.
No activity is mandatory. You can pick and choose which events you take part in.
View a sample social activity calendar
Myth #6: It’s unaffordable
Living at Parkland costs less than you think! No more grocery shopping, food preparation, outdoor maintenance costs, property taxes, membership fees or rising utility bills. One easy monthly bill takes care of all the little extras that add up quickly. When you add recurring services to your one monthly bill, taxes (harmonized sales tax) will not be charged. The price you see on that bill each month, is the price that you pay.
We’ve created a tool that allows you to compare your current monthly cost of living to your one monthly bill at Parkland. See our Cost Calculator Tool.
Myth #7: It’s too much of a commitment
From the location to the lifestyle, we are so confident that you will love everything about Parkland that we offer a 30-day Money Back Guarantee. If you are not happy, with the services and accommodations offered, we will refund one month’s suite rental in full. Additionally, there are no long-term contracts. At any time, 30 days’ notice is all that is required if you wish to move from your Parkland community.
Parkland offers a variety of short-term stay options, including winter stays, trial stays, guest stays, rehabilitation stays and respite stays. Short-term stays are a great option for seniors who aren’t quite ready to leave their homes. Parkland offers short-term stays on a furnished and unfurnished basis (based on availability). Please speak to the Lifestyle Consultant at the Parkland nearest you for more information and for availability.
Every detail has been considered to help you live your best life in retirement. And that includes The Parkland Promise, which delivers the ultimate in peace of mind: the flexibility and freedom to live your way.
Myth #8: You can’t bring your pet
At Parkland, we know that pets are family too. Pets are welcome at select Parkland communities. Please speak with the Lifestyle Consultant for more details.
Myth #9: You have to be an “older senior” who isn’t living an active, healthy lifestyle
While all our Parkland campuses are built and operated with retirement living in mind, there is no minimum age requirement.
Parkland offers a great deal of services and amenities that support an active lifestyle. You are invited to take part in any number of recreation activities that promote health and wellness as well as socialization. We want you to feel your best and being engaged and active is an important part of making that happen.
Myth #9: If you need additional care as you age, you will have to move
Parkland is designed to accommodate a continuum of lifestyle options and is based around the concept of “aging in place”. You can always have peace of mind knowing that if additional care is ever needed, it is always available. Our goal, every day, is to help you continue to live your best life.
If you would like to learn more about life at Parkland, contact us. One of our Lifestyle Consultants would be happy to discuss your options and find the perfect community for you.