One might speculate that the majority of seniors in this country are scared speechless about growing older. If that’s the case, people living at Andara, a senior living community in Scottsdale, are definitely in the minority.
Andara is a beautiful community that provides full-time assistance to those who need it. Whether it’s assisted living, short-term care or simply independent living, Andara has all the tools in place to help seniors enjoy a vibrant lifestyle.
The life experiences at Andara are cutting-edge in the sense that they inspire seniors to grow, connect, move and create at their own pace. It is an innovative approach to senior care, and it shows in the lives of each of their residents.
“A day at Andara is definitely not typical,” says Resident Services Director Kim Koppert. “We want to inspire residents to live their lives, to try new things.”
There are a lot of choices at Andara. Exercise classes are offered six days a week, water aerobics is in the mix, and residents play bridge and other card games. But it is the innovative activities, the outside-the-box events, that separate Andara from other communities.
Andara places an emphasis on expanding the brain, creating experiences for residents that challenge their minds while enriching their souls. Trips to art shows or the theater are common, as are overnight trips to cool places. Recently, 11 residents travelled to Sedona and stayed for a couple of days.
One of the more interesting activities offered at Andara is the chance to participate in the Wii National Bowling League. Andara fields teams of four or five residents for the twice-a-year national competition. Last season, Andara residents won a league championship.
In addition, the residents of Andara get the opportunity to enhance their minds through a series of classes called Brain Health University. It is a chance to take 30 different classes while interacting with friends. The end result is challenging the mind while having fun doing so.
“The social interaction is critical to their well-being, because they are home alone so much,” says Kim.
Andara goes out of their way to make every experience an appealing one, whether it be activities, classes or dining. Their dining program not only offers delicious meals, it caters to the residents’ dietary needs. Whether a simple breakfast or a fine dining experience, the meal is enhanced as the residents enjoy their dining time while connecting with friends.
Residents can host their families for meals, birthdays, holidays and other special occasions. It makes for complete dining when you can provide a private dining experience for those close to you.
Andara enjoys a rich Jewish tradition during the holidays. They routinely consult with residents to find out what best suits their religious preference. During Hanukkah, they gather nightly to say prayers and light candles on the menorah.
The holidays are upon us, so Andara will be in full swing. Residents experience the best of everything as they enjoy their families and host family members throughout December and the New Year. They can rest assured that life at Andara is about living and enjoying the time – and sometimes even the best time – of their lives.
