Saint Ann Independent Living Food OKC Cannoli

Best Independent Living Food in OKC

The OKC metro area has many living communities for senior citizens. Finding the best community with the best independent living food can be daunting. Still, Saint Ann Independent Living Community is a shining example of an independent living community that offers fresh, healthy dishes to its residents.

Independent Living Food

Does Independent Living Include Meals?

It depends on the community, but we offer independent living with meals at Saint Ann. We have a wonderful dining room where you can enjoy nutritious food with your friends and loved ones. We understand that it is important for our residents to feel good and enjoy their meals. We take that very seriously and provide the best quality of food around.

Typical Independent Living Food Experience

Most Saint Ann residents enjoy the fresh independent living meals created for them at the fine dining restaurant. We create meals made with care by our professional staff. We want to provide healthy, nutritious food while ensuring it tastes great. Our food is always made from scratch and features local ingredients. We make our food by hand in the kitchen and on demand, so no one gets stuck waiting for their meal.

Usually, most of our meals are American favorites. However, you can also enjoy seafood and other cuisines. We have various choices, including hot soups, sandwiches, salads, main dishes, and gluten-free foods. We understand that busy seniors love to feel refreshed after a busy day, so we provide fast service to ensure they get their meals as soon as possible.

While our community is near many entertainment options, we offer much more than a fine dining experience. Our private dining rooms ensure privacy and intimacy for each event, whether a business lunch or time spent with family members. We also host theme nights and live entertainment. Enjoy dinner and a show at Saint Ann!

Saint Ann Independent Living Food OKC BBQ

Saint Ann’s Food Style

Saint Ann’s Independent Living with meals community uses first-class ingredients to prepare your meal. Our food style is the best for independent living food in OKC.

We take pride in our:

In-House Gourmet Chef and Top-Notch Dining Staff

Our gourmet chef will personally prepare your meal by hand. Enjoy the quality that comes from our daily recipe, make-from-scratch approach. Our expert chefs have a vast culinary experience of more than 20 years in Oklahoma City and surrounding areas. We believe in customer satisfaction, so let us know if you have any concerns or suggestions for how we can improve our services.

Restaurant-Style Meals and Dining Experience

We also prepare traditional Asian dishes with unique and creative touches, marinated meats, and locally grown seasonal vegetables.

Luxury Dining Setting

We have designed the atmosphere and decor to provide the ideal setting for dining out. It is your treat to yourself as you relax in our comfortable, luxurious, and modern atmosphere. We have a very large, spacious, and comfortable dining room to enjoy your meal with your family and friends in peace. Our restaurant chairs are very comfy, so you can spend hours enjoying our meals with us without feeling fatigued or discomfort.

Independent Living Food Options

We have several different menus, so all of our residents can find something they like. Our meals come with a beverage, bread, and dessert. Some of the food in independent living options available include:

Special Dietary Needs

We can serve meals that meet special dietary needs on request. We offer the best senior living dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner for seniors on a diet. Our staff understands that life with old age or a disability can be stressful enough without worrying about diet restrictions.

Saint Ann Independent Living Food OKC Parfait

Event Meals

Saint Ann’s Restaurant is a great place to plan an event or celebration. We host themed meals, live dining entertainment, and holiday parties. We also cater family dinners for our residents and their loved ones in OKC.

Holiday Meals

We can provide you with holiday meals such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter. We will make your holiday extra special.

Residential Meals

You can also take advantage of our residential meal service, which allows you to enjoy meals on demand from our restaurant-style custom menu without leaving the comfort of your home.

Independent Living Food Regulations and Standards

At Saint Ann’s, we are an ADA-compliant facility. It means we provide a safe, clean, and sanitary independent living with meals environment to enjoy your food. Each year as a condition of our license, we are inspected by the local Health Department to ensure continued compliance with State and Federal Codes and Regulations on food handling. We must meet the following USDA standards as outlined in the Food and Safety Inspection Service (FSIS) manual:

  1. Rooms must have approved dishwashing facilities cleaned and sanitized at least once daily. Cylinder-type dishwashers must have an air gap between the stopper and sink with no connections from the plumbing underneath or nearby.
  2. Prep kitchens must meet all necessary sanitation requirements, such as hot water, running water for cleaning, heated holding tables and countertops, and maintained and cleaned daily. Make sure that your cook is also certified.
  3. All foods served must be at or below 135 degrees F (degrees F, one degree Celsius} so that they will not cause damage to consumers.
  4. Equipment must include hot-holding surfaces such as steam tables, countertops, and flat-surface counters. We should also have hot (but not boiling) water for washing dishes and utensils.
  5. Supervisors and cooks must have independent living food safety training, while the rest of the workers only need the required independent living food safety knowledge.
  6. Some facilities require an inspection once a month. Inspectors will check at these facilities to ensure the staff meets all requirements. In other facilities, an inspector may visit as infrequently as once a year to check whether we comply with all regulations.

Saint Ann Independent Living Food OKC Fruit Kabob

Experience the Best of Independent Living with Meals at Saint Ann Community

At Saint Ann’s, our facility management and staff will work diligently to provide you with the best independent living food experience possible. We are a premium independent living with meals community and want you to enjoy your meals.

Saint Ann Retirement Center offers the best senior living options for retirement in Oklahoma City. Assisted living and independent living accommodations enhance the lives of individuals looking for support and comfort and a variety of amenities to keep the community active and engaged. Saint Ann is owned and operated by The Catholic Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, a not-for-profit Christian organization.

Saint Ann Senior Independent Living OKC

8 Signs To Move To Senior Independent Living

Looking for a Senior Independent Living Community for Yourself or Your Loved One?

 Are you or a loved one struggling to keep up with cooking, cleaning, and home maintenance? Are you feeling lonely or bored in your current living situation? Do you worry about your safety or your ability to maintain self-care? If you answered yes to these questions, consider moving into senior independent living.

When To Move To Senior Independent Living

 At Saint Ann Independent Living in Oklahoma City, we understand the challenges of aging and the benefits of senior independent living. That’s why we provide various services and amenities to address these challenges and make life easier and more enjoyable for our residents.

Cooking and Cleaning are Exhausting

 At Saint Ann, our residents deserve to enjoy their retirement without worrying about daily chores. That’s why we offer a variety of services to make life easier. Our staff prepares delicious meals, so you don’t have to worry about grocery shopping or cooking. We also take care of lawn care and home maintenance, so you can relax and enjoy your free time. Plus, with only one apartment to keep clean, you’ll find plenty of time to enjoy our on-site amenities and activities.

Saint Ann Senior Independent Living OKC Cleaning

Saint Ann Independent Living OKC Prepares Meals

 One of the biggest living options challenges of maintaining a home is cooking and cleaning. In a senior living community like Saint Ann, these tasks are handled for you. Saint Ann Independent Living OKC offers gourmet, chef-prepared meals, allowing seniors to enjoy delicious and nutritious food in their dining room without the hassle of cooking and cleaning up. Our exceptional dining services allow residents to look forward to daily meals, snacks, and beverages served in a restaurant-style setting. Seniors facing challenges managing their meals can find a solution with Saint Ann Independent Living in OKC, offering senior independent living at its finest.

Saint Ann Handles Lawn Care

 Lawn care can be challenging for seniors, especially those with mobility issues or medical conditions that make it difficult to perform physical tasks. At Saint Ann, seniors can enjoy independent living facilities in a worry-free lifestyle as the facility’s team of professionals takes care of all medical care needs. The retirement community’s staff provides expert lawn maintenance services to ensure residents’ outdoor living spaces always look their best. Saint Ann’s senior independent living community in Oklahoma City is a fantastic option for seniors who want to enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle while still living independently.

Helpful Staff for Cleaning & Laundry Assistance

 Saint Ann’s staff offers essential assistance with cleaning and laundry for older adults of their senior independent living community, making day-to-day living much easier. This can be especially valuable for individuals struggling with household tasks due to physical limitations or medical conditions. Downsizing from a larger home to an apartment in an independent community like Saint Ann Retirement Center can provide significant relief and convenience. With a smaller space to keep tidy, seniors can focus on enjoying their hobbies and socializing with fellow residents. Saint Ann Retirement Center offers exceptional care and amenities for those considering senior independent living in Oklahoma City to meet a wide range of needs.

Saint Ann Senior Independent Living OKC Staff

On-Site Maintenance is Ready to Help

 When it comes to senior independent living, one of the most common challenges independent living residents face is maintaining their homes. Saint Ann Independent Living understands this can be daunting, so they offer on-site maintenance ready to help at a moment’s notice. With Saint Ann’s assistance, residents can rest easy knowing their homes are in good hands. Their team is equipped to handle any issue, from minor repairs to major renovations. Saint Ann’s top-notch maintenance services make it an excellent choice for seniors considering independent living for themselves or a loved one. Regarding senior independent living in OKC, Saint Ann has everything covered.

Life is Boring and Lonely

 Staying active and social is essential for maintaining a healthy and happy lifestyle. At Saint Ann, we offer regular events, parties, games, music, and more to keep you engaged and connected with other residents. We also organize group outings to explore the city, so you can experience all Oklahoma City offers. With so many opportunities to make new friends and create memories, you’ll never have to feel bored or lonely.

Saint Ann Independent Living OKC Provides Regular Social Activities, Outings, and Opportunities for New Friendships

 Life can be boring and lonely, especially for a senior active adult who may feel isolated or disconnected. At Saint Ann, we provide regular socializing opportunities such as events, parties, games, and music to keep our residents engaged and entertained. We also organize group outings to cultural events, shopping centers, and restaurants, providing opportunities for new friendships and experiences.

Struggling to Maintain Self-Care

 Staying active and taking care of your physical and mental health is crucial to your well-being. At Saint Ann, there are various services offered to help you maintain your self-care routine. Our on-site nail and hair salons allow you to pamper yourself without leaving the community. We also offer fitness classes and activities and access to our fitness center. Plus, our daily transportation services make it easy to get around the city for appointments or errands.

Don’t Feel Safe Living Alone

 Living alone can be a safety concern, especially as we age. At Saint Ann, we prioritize the safety of our residents. We have 24-hour security on site to ensure personal safety and the safety of your property. If you’re worried about losing mobility or falling, our 24-hour nurses can assist. Plus, if you have memory issues or are at risk of getting lost or confused, we have helping hands to look out for you.

Saint Ann Senior Independent Living OKC Food

Save Money and Lower Expenses

 We understand that financial concerns are a significant factor when considering senior independent living. That’s why we offer fixed pricing for meals, utilities, rent, and more. You’ll know exactly what you’re paying for and can afford. Plus, we provide almost everything you need, so you won’t have to worry about unexpected expenses.

 Consider a senior independent living community if you or a loved one faces the challenges listed above. At Saint Ann Independent Living OKC, we offer various services and amenities to help you enjoy your retirement fully. From delicious meals and regular social activities to on-site self-care services and 24-hour security, we have everything you need to feel safe, comfortable, and happy. Contact us today to learn more about our community offering services and schedule a tour.

Saint Ann Retirement Center offers the best senior living options for retirement in Oklahoma City. Assisted living and independent living accommodations enhance the lives of individuals looking for support and comfort and a variety of amenities to keep the community active and engaged. Saint Ann is owned and operated by The Catholic Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, a not-for-profit Christian organization.

Independent Living Community

Top 10 Ways to Enjoy an Independent Living Community OKC

Moving to an independent living community is a big step. Some people may feel shame or sadness about moving into one or feel that making this change means losing their independence.

But that couldn’t be further from the truth! An independent living community isn’t like a standard retirement center. It is what you make it. And with the right attitude, independent living can be as empowering and liberating as living in your own home.

Contents

Here at Saint Ann Retirement Center, we’ll break down how to make the most of your independent living community and highlight all the things that make it great.

As always, if you have any questions or are interested in visiting our beautiful residence, don’t hesitate to give us a call or visit the rest of our website.

Make Your New Space Your Own!

Moving into a new space can be exciting! It’s a chance to start fresh, try new things, bring along the best of your old space, and not worry about home maintenance.Moving to Independent Living Community OKC.

It is essential to choose a floor plan that is right for you. Here at Saint Ann, we offer several living options for our independent living community residents.

Saint Ann Independent Living Styles

THE DIAMOND: Two Bedroom DeluxeIndependent Living Community 2 Bedroom Diamond Room

  • 1083 square feet
  • Two bathrooms
  • Walk-in closet
  • Kitchen
  • Living and dining area

THE EMERALDIndependent Living Community Large 2 Bedroom Emerald Room

  • 872 square feet
  • Two bedrooms
  • Two bathrooms
  • Walk-in closet
  • Kitchen
  • Living and Dining Area

THE RUBY: One Bedroom Grand DeluxeIndependent Living Community Large 1 Bedroom Deluxe Ruby Room

  • 724 square feet
  • Bedroom
  • Walk-in closet
  • Bathroom
  • Kitchen
  • Living and dining area

THE GARNETIndependent Living Community 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom Garnet Room

  • 645 square feet
  • One Bedroom
  • THE OPAL
  • 583 square feet
  • One Bedroom

THE JASPERIndependent Living Community Spacious 1 Bedroom Jasper Room

  • 436 square feet
  • Studio style
  • combined living and sleeping space

THE JADE: Two Bedroom grand deluxeIndependent Living Community Large 2 Bedroom Deluxe Jade Room

  • 1,166 square feet
  • Two bedrooms
  • Two bathrooms
  • Two living area
  • Two kitchens
  • Two closets

As you can see, there are quite a few options! Be sure to check out these options when you visit so you can make the best choice possible.

A fitting room goes a long way to making the most of your independent living experience.

To Make the Most of Your Experience, Make the Most of Your Investment!

Independent living is a sizable investment. You pay for many amenities, services, and social activities.Independent Living community Investment.

Make sure you get the most out of whatever you’re paying for. Take that weightlifting class. Attend weekend social opportunities. Eat your meals in the dining hall. You’ll pay for these services and amenities whether you use them or not, so you might as well use them!

Doing so will help you make the most of your independent living experience.

Live Somewhere with Plenty of Activities

Where’s the fun in living somewhere with no activities? Activities are one of the best benefits of independent living and a big part of why people move into an independent living community. Living on your own can be lonely. It’s fun to live independently with other people. But you have to have things to do!

Luckily for you, Saint Ann offers a wide array of activities! We offer activities such as cornhole, aerobics, arts and crafts, weight training and stretching sessions, game nights, movie nights, religious services, and more!

We also have spaces for activities, like a chapel, movie theater, game room, and fitness center for fitness classes!Independent Living Community Aerobics

There’s no shortage of things to do with your friends at Saint Ann.

Find an Independent Living Community that Can Give You Everything You Need, and More!

You deserve a place that goes above and beyond for you! The more you can get out of your independent living arrangements, the better!

Saint Ann has a beauty parlor, barber shop, and nail salon! Almost any other retirement community doesn’t hold up against Saint Ann. We also have a beautiful chapel with our pastor. Services are held daily for folks of all faiths.

Saint Ann takes amenities and activities to the next level for our independent living residents. You deserve it!

Food!

Food is the most underrated part of a senior living community experience.

Most of your meals will come from your residence’s kitchen, so you better like the food. You’ll be able to cook your own food. But wouldn’t you prefer to cook for yourself when you want, and not out of necessity because you hate the food?

Have a meal when you visit Saint Ann, and you’ll quickly fall in love with our food.

Meals at Saint Ann are delicious and made fresh daily. Our friendly chefs can accommodate different dietary restrictions or preferences.

Look for Services that Make Your Life Easier

You’re retired, after all! Saint Ann offers transportation services and has a personal driver you can schedule in advance. Want to make a trip to a grocery store? Want to visit a friend or family member for lunch? Our driver has you covered. And should you need a bus, van, or SUV for a specific outing, we can take care of that, too!

Consider the Location of Your Independent Living Community

Saint Ann Retirement Center is located in Oklahoma City, OK. Being in a big city gives our residents easier access to fun activities and amenities. Incredible restaurants and events are nearby and within driving distance. Independent living OKC makes going out easy.

We are super close to a new state-of-the-art senior center and happy to transport you! They have complete facilities with a pool, crafts, billiards, cooking classes, and much more. The Wellness Center is a great easy social outing that we encourage our residents to take full advantage of.

Live Somewhere You Are Proud Of

Take pride in where you live at Saint Ann. We have high ceilings and beautiful facilities. Our staff take great care and provide assistance with activities of daily living for our residents.

Holidays are fantastic at Saint Ann. We love to decorate and get in the holiday spirit.

Friends and family are going to love visiting you here!

Make Your Independent Living Community Your Home

We hope to have answered your questions and given you plenty of ways to make the most of your independent living experience. Independent living is what you make it, so make it great! 

Once again, feel free to visit us and see our lovely facility. We’d love to see you!

Saint Ann Retirement Center offers the best senior living options for retirement in Oklahoma City. Assisted living and independent living accommodations enhance the lives of individuals looking for support and comfort and a variety of amenities to keep the community active and engaged. Saint Ann is owned and operated by The Catholic Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, a not-for-profit Christian organization.

Retirement communities OKC Saint Ann dining.

Best Amenities of Retirement Communities OKC 

The best retirement communities OKC has to offer have the best amenities. At Saint Ann, we have the best of the best while also being among the country’s most affordable senior living centers, based on average prices for large U.S. cities. 

Of all the retirement communities OKC offers, Saint Ann Retirement Center has all the standard amenities you should find at most retirement communities and some special ones unique to Saint Ann.

As always, if you have any questions or are interested in seeing more of our senior care and senior housing, please give us a call or visit the rest of our website! 

The Food 

Food is an overlooked but vital part of living in a retirement community or anywhere. 

We promote an active lifestyle for our residents. Active adults work up great appetites!

Food should be easily accessible, diverse, accommodating, and tasty! Not every retirement community can do that, but Saint Ann can!

Chef Lori Williams, our in-house chef, crafts meals daily for our residents and is happy to accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions like gluten-free or vegetarian. 

Residents can eat meals with their peers in our dining room but are more than welcome to use our in-suite dining services to eat from the comfort of their rooms.

Our impressive floor plans create an open and inviting space for members of our independent living and assisted living communities to come together and enjoy our state of the art dining area. 

Meals at Saint Ann come in great variety and taste, and our residents consistently sing their praises. 

ChapelRetirement communities OKC Saint Ann chapel.

Speaking of singing…One of Saint Ann’s most impressive features is the beautifully-designed chapel!

All Saint Ann residents are welcome to practice their religion in our octagonal chapel. 

Mass is scheduled daily, with additional services held on Saturdays and Sundays. Father Price Grimes was the Saint Ann chaplain for nearly twenty years. Father Grimes continues to lead mass on Mondays and Fridays in a reduced role. 

Father Christopher Tran joined Saint Ann as a chaplain in 2021 and leads mass on the other five days of the week. 

The holy hour is recognized after mass, allowing those of all faiths and religions to practice freely. 

Tours of our chapel are available by appointment

Grand Theater

A room with a few couches and a larger-than-average television would be a luxury amenity in most retirement communities. But not at Saint Ann! 

We have a whole theater dedicated to movie viewings, watch parties, and more! 

Have a favorite movie that you’d love to see on the big screen, but it’s no longer in theaters? No problem! Just grab a bag of popcorn, and it’ll feel like the theater.


Is there a big football game you’d love to go to but can’t? Our theater will make it feel like you’re right there in the stands! 

Our grand theater gives residents a fantastic entertainment experience. In addition, it provides a place for visiting family and friends to sit with you and enjoy programs together. 

Driver for Local Trips 

While Saint Ann is an accommodating place with just about everything a person could want, residents sometimes need to venture beyond our grounds.

Retirement communities OKC Saint Ann driving.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When that time comes, Saint Ann has a driver who can take you anywhere in our local communities in Oklahoma City. 

Need to make a trip to the grocery store to pick your favorite cookies? No worries! 

Want to meet a friend or family member at a local cafe for lunch? We got you covered! 

Some residents may need to make trips for medical purposes, like dialysis or doctor visits. So our driving services extend to those residents as well. 

Schedule ahead with our staff, and Saint Ann’s driver can take you where you need to go! 

Friendly Staff and Residents 

At Saint Ann, we offer plenty of ways for you to socialize with our great residents. There are scheduled activities and events for everyone to mingle with, and our apartment-style housing ensures that your best friends are only a few doors away. 

And all the while, you get help from our experienced, skilled, and friendly staff. 

The Best Amenities are at Saint Ann Retirement Communities OKC

Saint Ann has an abundance of fantastic amenities. It helps make us the premier retirement community of all the retirement communities OKC offers.

Of course, we can’t list all of our great amenities here. There are still so many more luxuries and comforts in our community! If you’d like to learn more about what Saint Ann Retirement Center OKC has to offer, feel free to give us a call or visit the rest of our website.

However, nothing beats seeing them in person, especially our beautiful chapel! So schedule an in-person visit today and see what makes Saint Ann special.

Saint Ann Retirement Center offers the best senior living options for retirement in Oklahoma City. Assisted living and independent living accommodations enhance the lives of individuals looking for support and comfort and a variety of amenities to keep the community active and engaged. Saint Ann is owned and operated by The Catholic Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, a not-for-profit Christian organization.

active senior living group of seniors.

Benefits of an Active Senior Living Retirement Center

Does the world encourage active senior living enough? Everyone encourages kids to stay active. There’s a PE class in elementary school. Many parents put their children into sports. Even the NFL has the Play 60 campaign to encourage kids to get at least sixty minutes of daily activity.

When kids grow up, that encouragement stops. But the benefits of an active lifestyle never go away. Staying active gets more vital as you age.

For seniors, staying active can be one of the most critical things you can do to stay healthy and happy.

Here at Saint Ann Retirement Center, we encourage all residents who can stay active, to do so. We offer a wide array of amenities and activities to promote active senior living.

Given the importance of staying active, Saint Ann makes it a priority to help residents stay engaged both mentally and physically at our senior living facility.

Contents

 

active senior living. seniors outside hula hooping.

Why are activities important for seniors?

Activities that Prevent Disease

Activity improves your immune system. For many seniors, their immune system declines with age. Active senior living helps keep it strong.

With a stronger immune system, your body can fight off illnesses like the common cold, the flu, and even COVID-19.

Activity can mitigate other ailments like heart disease or diabetes. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., with seniors impacted the most. Staying active can drastically lower your odds of death from heart disease.

Staying active doesn’t mean you have to get up and run miles and miles or lift heavy weights in the gym. Activity can mean walking laps around a track. It can mean stretching in the morning. It can even mean doing band exercises!

Active senior living will keep you strong against disease and illness.

Activities that Help Manage Body Weight

Our metabolisms grow slower with age. Regular activity keeps our metabolism high, helping our bodies burn fat and retain muscle.

Activities that Improve Mental Health

Physical activity is excellent for your mental health. Getting active releases endorphins or hormones that make you feel good. These can relieve stress and help you feel happy.

Activity can also help you sleep well! Sleep and general rest are essential for seniors, who are often prone to insomnia and other sleep-related issues.

Activities that Lessen Fall Damage

Young folks can fall and bounce back up as if nothing happened. But their weaker bones can break when seniors fall, even from a small height. Large bones like hips and femurs are at particular risk during falls.

But regular activity can keep your bones strong! Activity also keeps your muscles strong, which may prevent you from falling in the first place!

Activities that Get You Social

Activity, especially in a senior living center, almost always occurs in groups!

Here at Saint Ann, we offer loads of wellness activities designed to promote socialization and active senior living. You can make new friends and get to know your fellow residents better through active senior living.

Staying social is great for your brain, especially for those getting older. Meaningful relationships give us purpose, motivate us, fight against feelings of loneliness and depression, and keep us mentally sharp.

If you do activities with people you like, it will feel like fun and less like work!

Activities that Improve Brain Function

Many studies have suggested that adults who exercise regularly have a lower risk of dementia.

And don’t think that if you start now, then it’s too late. The same studies also suggest that it doesn’t matter when you begin a fitness routine, as long as you start one!

active senior living. seniors doing yoga.What kind of exercises are best for seniors?

Yoga

    • Yoga is an excellent exercise for active senior living! It’s a low-impact exercise that’s easy on your joints. It helps build core strength and increase flexibility. These benefits will help keep you strong and safe!

Aerobics

    • If able, aerobic exercises are great at building stamina and heart health. It also strengthens the lungs. Aerobic exercise can mean a lot of different things. Walking, swimming, biking, and even table tennis or pickle-ball count as aerobics.

Strength Training

    • Weightlifting doesn’t have to mean stepping into a squat rack. But lifting weights, even five pounds or less, can drastically slow down muscle loss and keep body fat low.
    • Muscle loss is a big issue for seniors, which is part of why mobility becomes poor and falls become dangerous. So weightlifting, even a little bit, can pay huge dividends later in life.

How Saint Ann Retirement Center Keeps Its Residents Active

Saint Ann offers many amenities, facilities, and activities to support active senior living and help residents stay fit.

Wellness and Exercise Programs at Saint Ann:

Chair volleyball

    • Get into the action of volleyball from the comfort of your chair!

Strength training classes

    • Lift weights with your fellow mates!

Cornhole

    • A classic yard game that anyone can play!

Stretching sessions

    • Stay loose and limber with stretching sessions led by our skilled and friendly instructors!

Social Amenities at Saint Ann:

Active senior living involves both physical engagement and mental engagement.

Libraries and game centers

    • Keep your mind sharp with a good book or challenge a friend to a vast array of classic board games!

Computer rooms

    • Stay in touch with friends and relatives, or access the internet in our computer rooms!

Fitness and wellness centers

    • A great place to stay in shape!

Chapels

    • A quiet place for worshipers of all faiths to practice their religion peacefully.

Who can benefit from Saint Ann’s Activities?

If you’re interested in assisted or independent living, then Saint Ann Retirement Center would make a great home for you.

But what’s the difference between assisted living and independent living?

Independent Living

Independent living is for healthy seniors who still live independently but want the safety and sociability of living with fellow seniors and staff members. In addition, seniors find it exciting to live in a community where they can interact with their peers.

You can make your daily decisions at an independent living facility without the hassle of chores like housekeeping, grocery shopping, lawn care, and home maintenance.

Delicious meals are prepared daily for your convenience. However, apartments come with kitchenettes, making it possible to cook meals when you’d like!

Daily medical and personal care differs for assisted and independent living residents. For independent living, medical and personal care is provided by your choice of home health companies whenever needed or requested. Independence is the top priority for our independent living residents.

Assisted Living

Assisted living is for those who want personal care and other support in a home-like setting. Those in assisted living get help from staff when needed and get services at their request.

Assisted living also gives residents an environment where they can be social at their own pace. Someone who wants to be around people their age would greatly benefit from assisted living.

Why should you choose assisted living?

    • It provides a safe environment for seniors with limited mobility or medical conditions that require assistance.
    • It fosters socialization opportunities for seniors to thrive.
    • Help and medical personnel are available.
    • Delicious, healthy meals are prepared to support the immune system and maintain overall wellness.
    • Transportation is provided to help seniors maintain their independence.

Active Senior Living at Saint Ann

Here at Saint Ann, we hope to have answered all your most pressing questions regarding the value of activity for seniors.

If you have any additional questions or are interested in learning more, please call and schedule a visit today!

Saint Ann Retirement Center offers the best senior living options for retirement in Oklahoma City. Assisted living and independent living accommodations enhance the lives of individuals looking for support and comfort and a variety of amenities to keep the community active and engaged. Saint Ann is owned and operated by The Catholic Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, a not-for-profit Christian organization.

Independent Living Facility

Choosing the Best Independent Living Facility: 6 Things to Consider

So you’re thinking about moving into an independent living facility? Fantastic! Independent living can be an excellent time for those fifty-five and older. 

Independent living differs from assisted living, nursing homes, and other senior care options. It puts you in a community of like-minded people while maintaining your independence. 

At the right facility, independent living can be engaging, fulfilling, and liberating. 

When choosing an independent living facility in OKC, there’s much to consider. Here at Saint Ann Retirement Center, we’ve parsed the top things you need to know when searching for independent living facilities near you. 

If you have any questions not addressed here, feel free to give us a call or visit the rest of our website. Saint Ann is also open to tours and visitations if you want to see us in person! 

Independent Living Facility

Things to Consider when Moving into an Independent Living Facility OKC 

1. Take a Visit

Visiting an independent living facility is the best way to gauge whether you like it. The rest of our things to consider primarily stem from an in-person visit. 

Phone calls and website scrolling are great, but you cannot replicate the experience of an in-person visit. 

If you cannot visit in person, consider having a trusted person visit on your behalf. If possible, virtual tours may be available as well! 

2. Do you Enjoy the Food?

Food is an often-overlooked but essential part of any independent living facility. 

It’s what you’ll be eating every day. You better like it! So, have a meal! Meet with the cooks and food staff who serve you! Ask if they can accommodate dietary restrictions. 

Also, ask where they get the food and the variety of meals. For example, the lasagna might be great, but if you have it every night? Not so much. 

Don’t leave without checking the food! 

3. Talk to the staff 

The staff at an independent living facility will be the people you see daily. 

When you arrive for your visit, you will likely have a staff member lead your tour. But take time to meet with staff who aren’t giving you the tour. There are food workers, facility maintainers, front desk employees, medical staff, activity coordinators, and managers throughout the facilities! 

Each of these groups will contribute to your independent living experience. 

Are they friendly? Do they speak highly of the facility? Are they friendly to other residents? Ask yourself these questions and make sure you get answers. 

4. Inspect the Rooms 

You’re sure to get a look at different room options on your tour. Some rooms are bigger than others, but most contain the same few properties: a living space, a sleeping space, a bathroom, and a kitchenette. 

Some may have a full kitchen. If you’re someone who enjoys cooking meals for yourself, consider choosing this option! 

Many come in a “studio” format, where doors don’t separate the sleeping and living areas. One-bedroom units will cost more than their studio counterparts. 

How’s the temperature? If it’s not to your liking, can you easily adjust it? What kind of views do you get? Who are your neighbors in the open rooms you might move into? Do they seem friendly? 

Before you leave, ask about the process of making maintenance requests. For a more realistic estimate, ask a resident how long it takes for maintenance to handle requests. 

Also, look at common areas, fitness centers, computer rooms, and other amenity spaces. 

5. Consider the Cost of Living

The cost of living can’t be something you overlook. Because of the specialized amenities, perks, and care, Independent living residences offer, they cost more on average than your typical apartment. 

However, they almost always cost less than assisted living communities or nursing homes. Those cost more because of their personalized medical care and medication management. 

Of course, the price varies at the location. Some may cost more because of the amenities they provide. If you don’t intend to use those amenities, you shouldn’t pay for something you won’t use. 

Factor in the cost of living with your estimated retirement income and see how much you can afford. Additionally, consider that you may live there for many years. 

6. Stay Close to Friends and Family 

Choosing an independent living facility near close friends and family will improve your experience. It will be easier for them to visit you, and they’ll visit more often. 

Independent living FAQ 

Why do people move to independent living?

Independent living communities resemble a 55+ community with homes, but independent living is almost exclusively in apartment-style residences. You’re around similarly aged people, but independent living residents tend to be older on average than 55+ community residents. 

Independence is a critical component of independent living. Of course, you do not have to participate in activities, but it is encouraged! 

Independent living residences offer meals, daily events, and social activities to engage you. In addition, some independent living residences offer a nursing staff that can assist when needed, though they are often not specialized. 

Independent living is for someone who wants to be in a community of similar people with the option to participate in community activities while having closer access to living assistance when needed. 

What’s the difference between independent living and assisted living?

Assisted living differs from independent living because it focuses much more on hands-on assistance. 

Nurses at an assisted living community are usually skilled, and there is typically an on-call or visiting physician. Daily living is more structured to fit your medical and personal wellness needs. 

For example, you may have planned-out physical therapy sessions. In addition, a medical worker may monitor your diet to fulfill nutrition requirements. You can also have a nurse who assists you with medication management. 

Assisted living is for someone who needs some medical and regular wellness attention from professionals while wanting a caring community of people to socialize with. 

In conclusion 

Here at Saint Ann Retirement Center, we hope to have given you some clarity about things to consider when choosing the best independent living facility in OKC. 

A quick internet search for the “best independent living facility OKC” will yield dozens of results. Maybe even Saint Ann’s will show up. But at the end of the day, you need to choose the one that’s the best fit for you. 

If you have any questions not addressed here, feel free to give us a call or visit the rest of our website. If independent or assisted living interests you or a loved one, schedule a visit at Saint Ann Retirement Center today!

Saint Ann Retirement Center offers the best senior living options for retirement in Oklahoma City. Assisted living and independent living accommodations enhance the lives of individuals looking for support and comfort and a variety of amenities to keep the community active and engaged. Saint Ann is owned and operated by The Catholic Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, a not-for-profit Christian organization.

Can I afford to retire? An elderly couple sitting on a beach holding hands.

Can I Afford to Retire? A Complete Guide to Retirement

Saint Ann’s Retirement Guide: Can I Afford To Retire?

So, you’re thinking about retiring? Congratulations! You’re approaching one of life’s most significant milestones. With such a milestone comes the question: “Can I afford to retire?”

In America, the average person retires at 62 years old. But you must be at least 67 to receive full retirement benefits from the federal government. 

You need some money saved up to retire early at 62. But, of course, you’ll need even more to retire earlier than that.

So, what’s the magic number? How much money do you need so that you can afford to retire? 

The answer is complex. Every person and situation is different. However, some key factors can provide clarity. 

Here at Saint Ann Retirement Center, we’ve aimed to answer some of your most pressing questions to help you answer the question: “Can I afford to retire?”.

Contents

Can I afford to retire? A hand drawing a retirement graph growing in size concept.

How much money does the average person need to retire?

“Can I afford to retire? Do I really need a million dollars?” $1,000,000 (one million dollars) has been a number floated around by retirement experts for years, and it’s one you’ve likely heard of online. 

But what can one million dollars in retirement savings give you? According to Merrill, a Bank of America company, a retirement savings account valued at one million dollars gives you an annual income of roughly $40,000.

This falls in line with another notable retirement expression, the four percent rule. This rule says you should only withdraw four percent of your retirement savings, or nest egg, each year.

Since your retirement savings account is tied to an index fund, it will steadily grow each year. Four percent, as determined by certified financial planners, leaves enough money behind to replace itself. So the account’s annual growth matches the amount you took out. 

Take more than four percent, and your account’s annual growth won’t be enough to replenish itself. Take less, and you won’t have enough to live off.

But is $40,000 a year enough for you and your family?

Every year, that answer is increasingly “no.” However, depending on your lifestyle and accustomed standard of living, $40,000 might work.

Could you manage working for a few more years?

“Can I afford to retire yet? Should I keep working?” The last thing someone wants to hear when they’re approaching retirement is having to work a little longer. 

Unfortunately, it is a great way to add a little more cushion to your savings.

Working until you can receive full retirement at 67 has several benefits.

You will get bigger social security checks.

Social security income checks are calculated using the 35 years of our highest income. So if you’re earning more now than you did early in your career, then working more higher-income years can raise the amount on your checks. 

This is even better if you haven’t yet hit 35 years. If you retire before you have 35 years of income, those zeroed years factor in and can tank your monthly income check amounts.

You’ll have more time to save.

Working additional years gives you more years to save and add big chunks of money to your retirement account.

And since you’re anticipating retirement, you can save more than you usually would.

Your accounts will get additional years of compounding interest.

Compounding interest is perhaps the most essential part of your retirement portfolio.

Say your portfolio has a 5% compounding interest rate, and you start with $1,000. After a year, you’ll have $1,050. But now you get 5% interest on the $1,050. A year later, you’ll have $1,102.5. Another year will make $1,157.6.

If your retirement account has hundreds of thousands of dollars, these percentile increments will be substantial. And it will mean even more over 30+ years.

You’ll have fewer years of withdrawals.

Lastly, you’ll have fewer years of withdrawals. Once you begin withdrawals, you stop adding to your account, and your account’s value plateaus.

The fewer years you withdraw, the more money you can take out annually.

Could you manage forecasted inflation?

“Can I afford to retire with inflation?” Inflation is a hot-button topic right now. Inflation is hitting Americans hard. Additionally, the stock market has taken a hit. Many aspiring retirees are seeing their retirement portfolios shrink and the devaluation of what’s left behind. 

People who thought they could afford to retire a year ago find themselves unable to today.

Let’s look back at the $40,000 figure. If you retire today and live off $40,000 a year, you might maintain the standard of living you are used to. But what about ten to fifteen years from now?

$40,000 in the future won’t be what it is today. It’s not even worth what it was a year ago.

Take inflation into serious consideration when determining if you can retire or not.

Do you have substantial debt?

“Can I afford to retire if I have substantial debt?” If you have debts, you should consider holding off on retirement. Every dollar you owe in debt is a dollar less in the income you receive from retirement account withdrawals.

Additionally, having debt without a reliable source of income is a risky financial move.

Do you have a reserve for significant expenses?

You may face some considerable expenses around retirement age.

“I have hospital bills, can I afford to retire?” Healthcare costs like hospital bills, ambulance fees, medications, health insurance, and surgeries can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. 

Do you feel comfortable taking on those expenses with how much you have saved up?

If so, proceed confidently.

Do you struggle to pay current bills?

Are bill payments like rent, a mortgage from real estate, and utilities hard for you to stay up to date on?

If so, you’re likely neglecting your savings account to prioritize bills. Unfortunately, this could be a bad sign for your retirement prospects.

In conclusion…

“Can I afford to retire?” Your ability to retire depends on your desired standard of living if you anticipate significant expenses, where you live, and how much money you have saved up.

If you’re interested in retirement and are looking for a place to live, consider Saint Ann Retirement Center. We offer assisted living and independent living options for our residents.

Our facility boasts excellent amenities, freshly-cooked meals, and professional staff who can help you live comfortably and independently.

If you’re interested, visit the rest of our website or give us a call to schedule a tour today!

Saint Ann Retirement Center offers the best senior living options for retirement in Oklahoma City. Assisted living and independent living accommodations that enhance the life of individuals looking for support and comfortability as well as a variety of amenities to keep the community active and engaged. Saint Ann is owned and operated by The Catholic Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, a not-for-profit Christian organization.

6 Different Types of Senior Living

6 Different Types of Senior Living

Approaching the idea of senior living can be intimidating for some. There are so many types of senior living. It can be hard to parse through them all and figure out which one is best for you or a loved one.

What are the different types of senior living? Do I value independence? Are the meals good? What about medical care? These are questions you should be asking. However, the answer largely depends on the type of senior living you choose and what facility you select.

While the types of senior living come in many forms, they can be broken down into general categories that simplify the options. 

Here at Saint Ann Retirement Center, we’ve identified the different types of senior living available, which needs and values these types can satisfy, and their pros and cons.

Did you know there are Different Types of Senior Living

What are the different types of senior living?

1. 55+ Communities

A 55+ community is the gateway to a senior living community. This option resembles the living you or a loved one has experienced thus far.

A 55+ community, for example, can be a neighborhood of homes where all the residents are at least 55 years old or older. There may be some community amenities, like a swimming pool, fitness center, or in some cases, a golf course!

A 55+ community can also be an apartment complex with similar amenities that you may see in other apartments, like a fitness center, lobby, media room, etc.

You don’t have to worry about noisy families or rowdy teenagers in a 55+ community. Everyone is on the same wavelength. 

Who are 55 communities ideal for?

55+ communities are ideal for active seniors above 55 who want to live around like-aged people while maintaining a daily lifestyle similar to what they’re used to.

PROS
  • Sometimes gated
  • Community amenities
  • Like-aged neighbors
  • Well-kept landscapes
  • Your own home or apartment
CONS
  • Traditional home upkeep is up to you
  • No medical or memory care staff
  • HOA fees

2. Independent Living

Independent living is the next tier of senior living. Independent living communities resemble a 55+ community, but independent living is almost exclusively in apartment-style residences.

You’re around similarly aged people, but independent living residents tend to be older on average than 55+ community residents.

Independence is a critical component of independent living. Of course, you do not have to participate in anything, but it is encouraged!

Independent living residences offer meals, daily activities, and social events to engage you. In addition, some independent living residences offer a nursing staff that can assist when needed, though they are often not specialized.

Who is independent living for?

Independent living is for someone who wants to be in a community of similar people with the option to participate in community activities while having closer access to living assistance when needed.

PROS
  • Social activities
  • Meals
  • Nurses-on-demand
CONS
  • You may be paying for things you don’t want/need
  • Not a comprehensive medical care environment

3. Assisted Living

Of all the types of senior living, assisted living could be the right one for you. Assisted living resembles independent living but focuses much more on hands-on assistance. 

Nurses at an assisted living community are usually skilled, and there is typically an on-call or visiting physician. Daily living is more structured to fit your medical and personal wellness needs. 

For example, you may have planned-out physical therapy sessions. In addition, a medical worker may monitor your diet to fulfill nutrition requirements. You can also have a nurse who assists you with medication management.

6 Different Types of Senior Living

Is assisted living for me?

Assisted living is for someone who needs some medical and regular wellness attention from professionals while wanting a caring community of people to socialize with.

PROS
  • Better medical attention
  • Activities and social events
  • Many daily chores are taken care of for you
CONS
  • Less independence
  • Required activities

4. Memory Care

Memory care is a step up from assisted living. This is an advanced form of care for people with dementia or Alzheimer’s. 

Memory care provides 24-hour medical assistance from licensed nurses. Many memory care facilities will have an in-house physician. A room in a memory care facility will more closely resemble a hospital room than an apartment.

Memory care facilities offer meals and social activities to stimulate brain function and social interaction. 

While medical attention is the main priority, a memory care facility can still offer a fulfilling and joyful resident experience.

Is memory care for me?

Memory care is for someone with, or in the development of, dementia or Alzheimer’s. Memory care residents need 24-hour medical assistance and access to a physician at a moment’s notice.

PROS
  • Expert medical care
  • A safe, nurturing environment
  • Provides ways to improve functionality
CONS
  • Little independence
  • Fewer activities and amenities
  • Saint Ann Retirement Center does not offer memory care

5. Skilled Nursing

Skilled nursing is a facility with advanced medical care treatment that doesn’t specialize in memory care. A skilled nursing facility is an excellent option for older residents who need access to 24-hour medical attention but don’t have memory issues.

Is skilled nursing for me?

Like memory care, medical attention is the primary priority in skilled nursing homes. However, you can still have a fulfilling and joyful resident experience.

PROS
  • Expert medical care
  • A safe, nurturing environment
  • Provides ways to improve functionality
CONS
  • Less independence
  • Less diversity in activities and amenities

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS

6. In-Home Nursing

In-home nursing is excellent for people who are well enough to not be in a hospital but would like some assistance adjusting to home life. 

This isn’t a long-term treatment plan but rather a short-term one to help you after a visit to the hospital, say after surgery or emergencies like a heart attack or stroke.

PROS

  • Convenient
  • Provides a safety net in case an emergency happens

CONS

  • Not a long-term option
  • Expensive

Types of senior living, senior living options for seniors 55 and up infographic.

In conclusion

We hope to have simplified the types of senior living options for you. However, entering this phase of your life is a big step. Therefore, Saint Ann recommends you make this decision for yourself while you still can.

If you have any questions or are interested in our services, give Saint Ann Retirement Center a call. We’ll be happy to help you determine which types of senior living could be right for you.

Saint Ann Retirement Center offers the best senior living options for retirement in Oklahoma City. Assisted living and independent living accommodations that enhance the life of individuals looking for support and comfortability as well as a variety of amenities to keep the community active and engaged. Saint Ann is owned and operated by The Catholic Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, a not-for-profit Christian organization.

How you choose the best retirement community is important to the next step you take in your life. Should you choose assisted living or independent living? Read our blog to figure out how to find the right fit for you!

How to Choose the Best Retirement Community for You: 8 Tips

Assisted living senior living independent living in oklahoma city Transparent Clean St. Ann Assisted Independent Living BLK

Are you looking for the best retirement community for you or a loved one? Not sure where to start? Here at Saint Ann Retirement Center, we’ve identified some things to consider and questions to ask when looking to move into a new retirement community.

Contents

Choosing the right retirement community for you can be a tough process. read more about how to choose the right place for you.

How to Know What Retirement Community Is Best For Me?

Here’s what you need to consider when choosing the retirement community for you.

1. Dining

You’ll be eating the food for nearly every meal, so you better like it! When you or a loved one visits, pay close attention to the dining aspects.

What kind of meals are available? Who is preparing it? Are the ingredients of excellent quality? Can they accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences with ease?

2. Social Activities

It would help if you wanted to move into a retirement community to be around folks your age that whom you can socialize with. Ask for a calendar of monthly events when you tour.

Do the activities interest you? Are you physically able to participate? Activities are what get you moving and interacting in a retirement community. You should enjoy them!

3. Personal Care

Every person interested in a retirement center has different medical and personal needs. Some retirement communities focus on medical care also known as assisted living care, while others prioritize independence or independent living.

Evaluate your situation and decide if you value getting to live on your own or being in a place where specialty care is provided. Do you need help with your meds? Do you need assistance with dining? Do you still do chores?

How you choose the right retirement community is important to the next step you take in your life. Should you choose assisted living or independent living? Read our blog to figure out how to find the right fit for you!

4. General Disposition

Do the residents and staff seem happy when you visit? Or do they seem bored or dismissive? Pay attention to the state of the residents.

You’re likely to feel similar to how they do. You should spend your years in a retirement center happily!

5. Amenities

Amenities are the shared spaces in retirement centers for residents to enjoy. Amenities vary from religious spaces, exercise rooms, game centers, and more!

If most of the amenities don’t interest you, consider if the cost of living there is worth it if you don’t like the amenities.

6. Community

When you visit, take some time to mingle with a current resident. It could be insightful to the retirement experience. Still, it gives you a chance to gauge if you see yourself getting along with those who live there.

If you use the center’s amenities and participate in social activities, you should do it with friends!

7. Transportation

Transportation is an often-overlooked aspect of retirement communities.
A community’s transportation allows you to get out and about. While it varies from place to place, Saint Ann is proud to offer a robust transportation service.

We have a scheduled driver who can take you to medical appointments, the grocery store, movie theaters, and more!
Transportation is key to living with independence.

8. Independent Living or Assisted Living

You’ll be faced with these two living options when looking to move into a senior retirement community. Independent Living Vs. Assisted Living.

In short, independent living focuses on:
– The social needs of the resident
– Aid with daily activities when asked
– General independence

Assisted living focuses on:
– Medical and personal care
– Continuing care support
– Nursing care
– Help with daily activities

Some senior living communities specialize in one or the other. Saint Ann provides both in one location.

In Conclusion…

Moving into a retirement center is a big decision with many factors.
Here at Saint Ann, we hope to have alleviated some stress and given you some peace of mind on how to best make this decision.

Are you interested in a senior living community? Visit Saint Ann today! We are an all-encompassing facility with the people and resources to accommodate independent and assisted living residents.

Stop by and see our wide array of amenities, happy residents, and welcoming staff and see if we are best for you.

Saint Ann Retirement Center

  • Oklahoma City
  • Edmond
  • Mustang 
  • Midwest City