My dream: non-assisted, transitional living for over 50

[Chelle Knijnenburg]

 I have a dream of creating an non-assisted living facility for those over 50 who are in transition or who want to have the ability to jet off and not worry about maintenance or yard care.

The impetus for this is my taking care of my grandmother from 95 to 99.9. :-) She did not need medical care, so a nursing home was out of the question. She was lonely and I could not find a way to connect her to her peer group as she did not like to move from the house. If she had her own room in a type of place I am dreaming of, she could have had a better quality of life.

Now, transition this experience to a, sadly, growing trend of over 50's getting divorced. My theory is many of them would like a place to transition where they can settle in for a year or ?, socialize, travel and 'find' their new selves without being tied down to a house or the anonymity of an apartment complex. One concept is stumping me - That there would be varied activities provided to them for socialization, plus links to Meetups and such, but not so much as they feel obligated to attend.

I understand insurance can be a challenge if I create it as a "home", which it is not. Any insurance agents out there that can help me figure out how to create this, what I think is a new concept?

I also need to figure out how to handle anyone who becomes in need of more than temporary medical care.

Any feedback is most appreciated. Also, What are your dreams?

[Larry F.]

Normally would not get in on this type of thread, but have worked in several independent senior living communities. I have a heart for seniors and can tell you do too. (2) quick tips.

• Insurance is not viable, this would have to be a private pay community
• Look at other providers of these kind of services ie: Hawthorn, Holiday Retirement they could give you insight in how to set something like this up
• Finally, when a resident reaches a level of care that requires assistance then perhaps find some caregivers that can provide assistance (check their references)

Best of luck with this dream!! Honoring our mothers and fatthers is a very good thing!

Blessings to you,