How To Talk To A Parent With Dementia
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

How To Talk To A Parent With Dementia

Understanding how to communicate with a loved one suffering from dementia is very important. This article will provide 8 tips for how to communicate efficiently and effectively.

Tips For Talking To A Parent With Dementia

It is unfortunate but dementia certainly transforms individuals. Many people will use the expression “empty shell” when referring to someone suffering from dementia. This is not always the case, though. Some days your loved one may seem completely normal, and this would be the perfect time for a conversation regarding their well-being and future.

Here are 8 tips to help you communicate with your loved one:

1. Realize What You Are Facing

As we all know, unfortunately, dementia does worsen as time goes on. Anyone attempting to craft a conversation or ongoing dialogue with someone suffering from dementia needs to know how challenging this task will be. Those suffering from dementia will struggle to communicate and understand.

2. No Distractions

Setting is very important when attempting to talk seriously. Pick a place and time to sit down and speak. Having no distractions in the area will help your loved one to focus all their mental energy on the conversation.

3. Always Speak Naturally

Make sure to stay calm during the conversation and always speak naturally. This is more likely to put your parent at ease.

4. Use Their Name Frequently

Try to avoid using “he” or “she” during the talks. Use their given name frequently during the dialogue. This is also important to do when greeting someone with dementia.

5. Don’t Tackle Too Many Topics

You want to keep them focused and on-topic for as long as possible. People with dementia may not be able to take part in the mental back and forth involved in a complicated conversation. Stay on task and always be very clear and direct with your topic.

6. Use Nonverbal Cues

Examples of this would include maintaining eye contact, smiling and nodding, when appropriate.  This is done to help comfort your parent while also establishing an understanding. Nonverbal communication is very crucial in the late stages of dementia.

7. Listen Attentively

Listening is key throughout this process, even if you intend on doing most of the talking. If you do not understand something they are saying, just kindly let them know without raising your voice.

8. Stay Patient

Really give your loved one plenty of time to think, react and explain. It may be difficult at times, but do not get upset. Try to remain patient at all times.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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Memory Care Facilities Near Me
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Written by Brian B

Memory Care Facilities Near Me

If you are searching for “memory care facilities near me” for a loved one, this article will help.

Memory care communities will differ considerably from assisted living communities. The residents in memory care communities have serious memory-related and specific requirements. They might not remember who they are on some days and may get angered walking around spaces that they have lived in but now feel unfamiliar with. They may tend to wander off the campus and can present a danger to themselves and to others, particularly if they get aggressive when they are frustrated. Trust only the best memory care facilities to take care of your loved one(s).

Memory care facilities are dedicated to those struggling with Alzheimer’s or memory loss. Here is a look at some of the best memory care facilities in Arizona:

Memory Care In Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is regarded as the most scenic city in all of Arizona. And that reason alone makes it a wonderful place to call home. Sedona Winds, located in the heart of the red rocks, offers stunning courtyard views, along with a 24-hour staff for every need. Settle for this community if you wish to enjoy breathtaking views, daily. General maintenance, weekly laundry and deep cleaning of your apartment, an emergency call system, and a diverse activities program are all included when you choose Sedona Winds.

Memory Care Package:

  • Three meals per day plus snacks
  • 24-hour care
  • Large activities program
  • Transportation to appointments
  • Bathing and oral care
  • Dressing and grooming
  • Daily tidying of your apartment
  • Laundry service
  • Weekly deep cleaning of your apartment
  • All utilities, including cable TV

Visit Sedona Winds website here.

Memory Care In Youngtown, Arizona

There isn’t a more appropriately named setting for this lively community than Youngtown! Monthly rent at Ventana Winds includes three well balanced meals plus snacks, 24-hour staff, and a daily tidying of your apartment. The offerings don’t end there! Personal laundry is done weekly, transportation is provided for appointments or shopping, a 24/7 emergency call system is in place, as well as a full slate of exciting activities. Check out all of Ventana Winds’ offerings today!

Memory Care Package:

  • Three meals per day plus snacks
  • 24-hour care
  • Diverse program of activities
  • Transportation to appointments
  • Bathing and oral care
  • Dressing and grooming
  • Daily tidying of your apartment
  • Laundry service
  • Weekly deep cleaning of your apartment
  • All utilities, including cable TV

Visit Ventana Winds website here.

Memory Care In Peoria, Arizona

Offering assisted, independent and memory care services, Desert Winds is a top-notch community in the valley. Desert Winds offers three types of floor plans for assisted living residents. Whether a two-bedroom, two-bath or one-bedroom, one-bath is what you desire, Desert Winds has a plan for you. Studio apartments are available as well. All of these floor plans can be toured virtually on Desert Winds’ official website. All apartments come fully equipped with individual heat and AC units, a refrigerator, microwave, window treatments and more.

Memory Care Package:

  • Three meals per day plus snacks
  • 24-hour care
  • Emergency call system
  • Diverse program of activities
  • Transportation to appointments
  • Bathing and oral care
  • Dressing and grooming
  • Daily tidying of your apartment
  • Laundry service
  • Weekly deep cleaning of your apartment
  • All utilities, including cable TV

Visit Desert Winds website here.

Memory Care In Surprise, Arizona

If you’ve lived in Surprise your entire life and want to stay close to friends and family, then Chaparral Winds is the assisted living facility for you! As Chaparral Winds’ website states, this is a community designed to keep a relaxing vibe going throughout the day. A pool and hot tub combined with a beautiful dining area make this one of the premier communities in all of Arizona. Great shopping, golf courses, restaurants and medical facilities are all located within a few miles, which is a bonus for visiting family members.

Memory Care Package:

  • Three meals per day plus snacks
  • 24-hour care
  • Diverse program of activities
  • Transportation to appointments
  • Bathing and oral care
  • Dressing and grooming
  • Daily tidying of your apartment
  • Laundry service
  • Weekly deep cleaning of your apartment
  • All utilities, including cable TV

Visit Chaparral Winds website here.

Memory Care In Mesa, Arizona

Canyon Winds is a Senior Living Services Community located in Mesa, Arizona. This facility offers plenty of choices for senior citizens of varying needs. One can find more than just assisted living at Canyon Winds, as they also offer independent and memory care services. This resort-style facility is breathtaking, with spacious floor plans and dining areas. A full activity program and fitness center await future residents. Looking to bring a small cat or dog to your new home? Not a problem at all, as every SLS Community is pet friendly!

Memory Care Package:

  • 24-hour care
  • Diverse program of activities
  • Bathing and oral care
  • Dressing and grooming
  • Daily tidying of your apartment
  • Laundry service

Visit Canyon Winds website here.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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Best Golf Clubs For Seniors
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Best Golf Clubs For Seniors

The game of golf has to be played differently as you age. You may not have the same power and/or flexibility that you used to have, so playing with clubs designed specifically for seniors is a must. If you are searching for “best golf clubs for seniors“, this is a list of some of the clubs to use at an advanced age.

Golf Clubs For Seniors

Here are five clubs/sets that are perfect for today’s seniors looking to hit the links:

  • TaylorMade SIM MAX Irons
  • Cobra Golf 2019 F9 Speedback Iron Set
  • Callaway Men’s XR OS Individual Iron
  • Wilson Ultra Plus Set
  • LAZRUS Premium Golf Irons

TaylorMade SIM MAX Irons

These irons offer a revolutionary Speed Bridge feature, which gives seniors the distance and forgiveness they need with each swing. The thinner clubface of the SIM MAX irons provides forgiveness on the player without impacting ball speed.

Cobra Golf 2019 F9 Speedback Iron Set

The Cobra Golf 2019 F9 Speedbacks are great clubs for distance. This set has a much larger than normal “sweet spot” for a better chance at a perfect hit. These are highly durable clubs. An additional benefit of these clubs is they are two years old, meaning you likely won’t have to pay top dollar for the set.

Callaway Men’s XR OS Individual Iron

If you want to purchase a single club rather than a full set, Callaway’s Men’s XR OS Individual Iron is just right for you! This is the perfect club for seniors seeking forgiveness without sacrificing ball speed or height. Even with the higher angle, this is a very effective club for long-distance situations.

Wilson Ultra Plus Set

The Wilson Ultra Plus Set is one of the most affordable sets on the market today. It’s perfect for the senior who is just begging to dip their toes into the world of golf. The lightweight stand bag is ideal for anyone who plans to walk the course or play a quick nine. A large sweet spot is in place for efficient practice and play.

LAZRUS Premium Golf Irons

The LAZRUS Premium Golf Irons work best for seniors with more strength and flexibility. These irons are heavier, requiring more strength, but that means the distance will be maximized with each swing. If you are struggling with any arthritis or joint issues, opt for a different set of irons.

Senior Swinging Golf Club

Golf Stretches For Seniors

As you age, you’ll need to stretch before hitting the links to ensure maximum flexibility and performance. Here are a couple great stretches to try before your next round:

Hip Stretches

The hips are a crucial asset for golfers. Your hips need to be loose whenever you approach the tee. Make sure to stretch out in the morning before hitting the links.

  • Lie flat on your back with your knees in the air and feet planted on the ground.
  • Bend at the waste with your torso remaining on the floor.
  • Drop both knees to the left side and hold the pose for a good 10-15 seconds.
  • Return to the starting pose and repeat the exercise, this time to the right. You’ll notice the difference this stretch can make for your swing.

Back Exercises

Back pain, especially when it persists, can be extremely difficult for golfers to endure. Be sure to take care of this issue before heading out on the course. Try a specific back exercise called ‘bridges.’

  • This stretch requires you to lie on your back while bending the knees and keeping your feet flat on the ground.
  • Have your arms flat on ground.
  • Keep your feet shoulder width apart.
  • Keep your shoulders and hands flat on the ground while raising your hips.
  • The hips should form a perfect, straight line from your knees all the way to your head.
  • Lower yourself back down to the ground, slowly.
  • Repeat this motion at least 8-10 times total.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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Questions For Assisted Living Interviews
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Questions For Assisted Living Interviews

If you are searching for “questions for assisted living interviews,” then this post should help! Below is a checklist of questions to help you make the best choice possible for your loved one.

Questions For The Assisted Living Community

  • How are activities chosen for residents?
  • What are the typical activities offered, weekly?
  • Are there flexible menu options available in the dining experience?
  • What is the social experience like?
  • Do residents spend the majority of their time in their rooms or in common areas?

You want your loved one to feel a sense of belonging within the community, regardless if it is a small or large facility. Find out all you can about the activities schedule, transportation, and chances to mingle with other residents.

Questions About Care At Assisted Living Facilities

  • In the monthly agreement what services are included?
  • Are services available a la carte?
  • If comprehensive care options are needed, can my loved one transition?
  • What is the ratio of residents to staff?
  • How do your competitor’s community care services differ from yours?

Your loved one’s need should be priority number one when preparing for an interview. Do not settle for anything less than the service and care that they deserve.

Questions About Assisted Living Costs

  • How and where does the funding come from for the community?
  • What would the circumstances be to warrant an increase in costs?
  • What are the emergency handling procedures?

Before deciding on a facility, you must understand all costs that are involved in a move like this.

What Are The Benefits Of Assisted Living Facilities?

Benefits of Assisted Living

Reduced Stress

Assisted living helps lover stress levels in your loved one and improves the quality of life for all involved. Seniors can enjoy their independence while receiving the care and help they require while the loved ones families no longer have concerns about fulfilling their loved one’s needs. One benefit to assisted living surroundings is that they permit seniors who may have physical issues or the early onset of Alzheimer’s or dementia to live a moderately independent way of life. The facility will usually have on-site medical care, but it will not be there 24/7. An assisted living facility will offer a care level that is suitable for seniors who do not need full-time care, but may require assistance with their meds, eating or food preparation, and other day to day activities.

Vibrant Social Life

It’s not that surprising for seniors to start to become lonely as they get up in age. Loneliness in seniors may lead to a lot of complications, ranging from poor health or bouts of depression, problems being active and more. In the assisted living facility, the residents belong to a part of a supportive, loving, and caring community. Your loved one will surrounded by seniors their own age and have numerous opportunities to socialize and take joy in the company of other seniors.

Increased Activity 

It’s very important that we stay active as we age. Assisted living seniors are offered a bunch of indoor activities as well as outdoor activities from strolling in the courtyard, to gardening, or picnics. Some assisted living communities will offer their residents transportation, so they can go on excursions, go to the corner market or visit the doctor’s office.

Healthier Diet

Greatly cooked meals and nutrition are essential for today’s seniors. Award-winning chefs make appetizing meals that also fulfills your loved ones dietary needs and individual preferences of each of their seniors.

Assistance In Day-to-Day Tasks

It’s very essential for seniors to have their independence, but also have the assistance they need. Assisted living communities provide their residents with help, only when needed, with daily living undertakings, such as dressing, preparing meals and eating or laundry duties.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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How To Look Younger At 50
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

How To Look Younger At 50

Aging is an inevitable part of life, but feeling old and looking old can be two separate things. We’ve put together a list of 15 tips to give you a vibrant and youthful appearance, even at an advanced age.

15 Tips To Look Younger

1. Color Your Hair

2. More exercise

3. Drink less

4. Lose weight

5. Relax more

6. Stop smoking

7. Always use sunscreen

8. Moisturize your skin

9. Drink more water

10. V-neck shirts

11. Whiten teeth

12. Smile more

13. More hobbies

14. Undergarments

15. Tight fitting clothes

Color Your Hair: For many, finding a few gray hairs may be the first sign of aging. Finding a licensed hair stylist to properly color your hair is the best way to ensure long-lasting results. Box color uses cheaper chemicals that can wear off and make the coloring look unrealistic.

More Exercise: More exercise will improve your blood circulation, increase supply of collagen, and of course, eventually lead to weight lose.

Drink Less: We all know drinking can have some terrible effects on the body. Alcohol has been proven to accelerate the aging process in one’s eyes and face.

Lose Weight: If you apply all these 15 tips to look and feel younger, the weight loss should come naturally.

Relax More: A lot of stress will make you age much quicker, unfortunately. Relax by doing yoga, talking long walks or whatever you can do to be at peace.

Stop Smoking: This is a crucial step towards your long-term health and your efforts to look younger. Cigarettes, like alcohol, will add age to your face. Try e-cigarettes or nicotine gum if you are attempting to quit for the first time.

Always Use Sunscreen: More people need to start applying sunscreen at an earlier age. Using a sunscreen with a high SPF will help avoid redness or sunspots.

Moisturize Your Skin: Dry skin will appear old and cracked. Not using any sort of moisturizer will only highlight the problem areas.

Drink More Water: This tip goes hand in hand with moisturizing. Drinking plenty of water daily will help your skin stay moisturized, naturally.

V-Neck Shirts: By simply wearing more V-neck shirts, your neckline will look more youthful and flattering.

Whiten Teeth: This is a popular action for seniors trying to look younger. Whiter teeth gives the impression that you are younger than you actually are. Purchase some of the many teeth-whitening products to remove any stains.

Smile More: This simple step helps mentally and physically. There is no doubt people who smile appear younger and happier. Smiling more often will decrease the chances of wrinkles developing.

More Hobbies: Spend your time and money on the things you love doing. Whether it’s a golf course membership or vacations, do what makes you happiest.

Undergarments: Undergarments that don’t fit or fit awkwardly can give you an invisible waistline.

Tight Fitting Clothes: Choose to wear clothes that fit a bit tighter than you are accustomed to. The tighter fits tend to make one appear younger.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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Retirement Party Ideas
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Retirement Party Ideas

It’s your last official moment to honor your boss, co-worker or friend at the office. One of the best ways to mark their significant transition is to have a retirement party. But, what are the ingredients of a great retirement party? Here is a list of five special party ideas.

Retirement Party Ideas For Co-Worker

Here are five fun ideas for retirement parties:

  • Retirement Party Games
  • Fun Playlist
  • Invite Friends And Family
  • Nostalgic Party Theme
  • Focus On Speeches

Retirement Party Games

Creating a few games as part of the retirement party is an absolute must. One of the best ways to put together some sort of game is by coming up with a trivia challenge. Often at retirement parties co-workers will write out questions that relate to the retirees’ work life and accomplishments. Having the honoree either answer all the questions or sit back and listen to co-workers guess will create a fun and inviting atmosphere at the party.

Fun Playlist

What is a party without a little music? Set the tone for what’s to come in the retirees’ life by creating a fun playlist. Send him/her off with a number of classics related to retirement. Songs like “Take It Easy,”  “When I’m Sixty-Four,” and “Don’t Worry, Be Happy” are perfect for the relaxing years in the future. Of course, popping a few of the retirees’ all-time favorite songs into the playlist could be a hit, as well.

Invite Friends And Family

Commonly overlooked at these parties, inviting friends and family to the affair can make the moment even more memorable. Great workplaces can begin to feel a lot like home, and co-workers become family. Invite real family to the party to show just how much he/she meant to the office culture all these years. Involving family can help others get an even better understanding of the person you are honoring. A confident family member may even decide to give a speech, which could become the highlight of the night.

Nostalgic Party Theme

A retirement party is the perfect time to look back and reflect on all that has transpired over the years. Picking a unique theme for the party can take the event to the next level. The nostalgic theme can take a worker back to the era they first started at the company or began working in the first place. Costumes are a great way to get everyone involved and transported back to the past. Brainstorm a theme with co-workers who know the retiree best!

Focus On Speeches

Most traditional retirement parties may either start or conclude with thoughtful speeches given by co-workers, friends or employees. Speeches can be the high point of the party, leading to a lifetime of memories. Make sure all speeches are well constructed, with the right mix of emotion and humor. Passing the microphone around to anyone who wants to say a few words is another popular option for these parties.

Looking for some great retirement wishes to include in your speech? Check out a few of our favorites right here.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

Retirement, Senior Living
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Can I Retire At 60 With 500K?
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Can I Retire At 60 With 500K?

If you are searching online for the question of “can I retire at 60 with 500k,” the answer is yes! This isn’t a simple early retirement plan, though, as many steps need to be taken to ensure a successful retirement. Continue reading to find out how you can retire with 500K in the bank.

Retire With 500K

The common rule of thumb says you have to have at least $1 million saved to retire, but $2 million saved is more realistic. While that is a great goal to accumulate that amount of money by age 60, sometimes it’s not realistic. For some retirees, a bank account of $500,000 will be more than enough to survive. With low spending and the possibility of two individuals in your home receiving pension income or social security, it is possible to retire with a smaller amount of money saved. If retiring at 60 with 500K is your goal, use these few steps as your map to success.

Budget Well

Enjoy your current lifestyle, but always think ahead to the lifestyle you want during retirement. Yes, you may love to travel and eat at nice restaurants now, but chances are you will still like to do those things when you are 60, as well. Basic living expenses, such as housing, transportation, utilities and healthcare need to be on a budget. If you cannot come up with a budget, try going back and reviewing your last few bill cycles. Are you spending too much overall? What could you cut down on or sacrifice? These are questions you need to ask yourself now. Do not wait until you are closing in on 60 years old to re-evaluate your spending habits.

Save Money Early

This tip goes hand in hand with budgeting. Obviously, the more you can save throughout the course of your life, the better off you will be in the future. Saving money when you are young is a crucial component towards a desired early retirement. Luckily, there are many different ways to save money. If an employer’s retirement plan is an option, see if the company will match the amount fully. Then, opening a traditional or Roth IRA is another great way to save. Always take advantage of unexpected savings, like a raise at work. Toss the extra cash into an IRA or towards your 401(k).

Location

This can be a tough change, for obvious reasons. Consider where you live and think about the possibility of moving to a location with lower housing prices, within reason. This also applies to your retirement at age 60. With 500K, it’s likely you won’t be able to live in the most luxurious spots in the country. Instead, opt for something you can truly afford. Just like you did in your days in the workforce, never live above your means. With location, one must think of housing costs, in addition to healthcare costs, among other factors.

Retirement Community In Youngtown, AZ

You’ve decided to make Youngtown, AZ your new home, so what comes next in this decision-making process? Finding the best possible retirement community in Youngtown can be a tough task, but luckily one name stands out above the rest. Ventana Winds is your top choice for every retirement need in the area. This community offers assisted living and memory care options, ideal for retirees of all ages. You simply cannot beat Ventana’s breathtaking pool area and resort-style dinning room. From one-bedroom, one-bathroom to two-bedroom, two-bathroom layouts, Ventana Winds has floor plans to fit any and all needs.

With 24-hour staff and care, Ventana Winds has quickly become a leader when it comes to retirement communities in the coveted Youngtown area. The affordable rent at this community includes three meals and snacks each day, all utilities, daily and weekly cleanings, scheduled transportation and timely maintenance. Combine all this with the wide range of activities and events, and Ventana Winds consistently satisfies all of its residents.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

Retirement
2
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Retire In Youngtown AZ

Retire In Youngtown AZ

Retirement is one of the biggest decisions any individual has to make. When to retire is always at the top of mind, but where to retire is just as important when planning for the next stage of life. So why retire in the small town of Youngtown, AZ? Here are just a few reasons why this is the best possible place to retire.

Youngtown, AZ

Compared to larger cities in the valley of the sun, including Phoenix, Mesa and Scottsdale, Youngtown, AZ is generally unknown. This town’s fascinating history, though, will quickly make it a favorite for potential retirees. Incredibly enough, Youngtown is actually the oldest retirement community in the U.S. In the mid-1950’s, developers began on an ambitious project: create the country’s first-ever planned community solely for retirees. The name Youngtown was, of course, ironically planned.

Measuring just over a mile in total area, Youngtown boasts a small population, filled with the best retirement communities in the entire country. This city was originally constructed with age restrictions, but in 1999 these restrictions were officially repealed. Nowadays, the age demographics are much wider, but this is certainly an area most populated by those seeking the perfect location for retirement. From November through April, the weather is nearly perfect, with average temperatures ranging from 76-86 degrees. This area continues to grow as well; more than doubling in population from 2000 to 2010, according to the 2010 Census. 

Youngtown is an ideal location for those looking to move away from busy and overcrowded cities, like Phoenix. Some of the best golf courses in the world can be found in Arizona. Scenic views, iconic parks and landmarks and a variety of entertainment venues are always options in this pristine location.

Retirement Community In Youngtown

You’ve decided to make Youngtown, AZ your new home, so what comes next in this decision-making process? Finding the best possible retirement community in Youngtown can be a tough task, but luckily one name stands out above the rest. Ventana Winds is your top choice for every retirement need in the area. This community offers assisted living and memory care options, ideal for retirees of all ages. You simply cannot beat Ventana’s breathtaking pool area and resort-style dinning room. From one-bedroom, one-bathroom to two-bedroom, two-bathroom layouts, Ventana Winds has floor plans to fit any and all needs.

With 24-hour staff and care, Ventana Winds has quickly become a leader when it comes to retirement communities in the coveted Youngtown area. The affordable rent at this community includes three meals and snacks each day, all utilities, daily and weekly cleanings, scheduled transportation and timely maintenance. Combine all this with the wide range of activities and events, and Ventana Winds consistently satisfies all of its residents.

Memory care offerings include:

  • Three meals and snacks per day
  • 24-hour staff
  • All utilities and cable TV
  • Daily and weekly cleanings
  • Emergency call system
  • Dressing and grooming assistance
  • Wide variety of activities

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

Retirement
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