About United Methodist Retirement Communities

United Methodist retirement communities exist in a number of states, providing a variety of housing options, health care services, and physical, mental and recreational programs and spiritual support. A non-profit, faith based organization established to provide care and fellowship to the elderly, this group began in Michigan in 1906, open to all individuals regardless of their religious orientation.

History

In 1906, ground was broken to build the Old People's Home, a one-building structure that welcomed its first ten residents in 1907. Eventually renamed the Chelsea Retirement Community, the United Methodist Retirement Communities grew to include Boulevard Temple, Cedars of Dexter, Silver Maples and The Pines that offered independent living apartments, assisted living, nursing home facilities, and specialized Alzheimer's care.

Function

The United Methodist Retirement Community program is based on Christian principals and aims to promote the continuous health of every individual, a dignified lifestyle through every phase of mental and physical decline, and the ability to live an independent life as long as possible up to and through the need for greater quality medical and support services. As a non-profit organization, it depends on residency agreements, donations, volunteer contributions, grants and other funding.

Geography

United Methodist retirement communities exist in a wide range of geographic locations of the United States. Many states include Michigan, North and South Carolina, Delaware, Texas, Pennsylvania and Washington. They offer different climates, natural attractions and regions that appeal to many retirees looking for convenient outdoor recreation or activities in a busy city.

Considerations

Considerations older individuals will weigh before choosing to live in a United Methodist Retirement Community include geographical locations, residency fees and costs, range of services, housing options, social and recreational programs. Some facilities are open to individuals who are 85 years and older with varying needs of assistance. Other considerations include regional climate, community attractions, and distance to family and friends. An example is Rockwood Retirement Community in Spokane, Washington, that offers a wide range of services and programs and a resident agreement payment plan.

Benefits

Benefits vary depending on which United Methodist Retirement Community one chooses. In general, all provide programs to promote wellness, physical, social and mental activities, different levels of medical and support services, all within an attractive and pleasant community. Other benefits may include fee structures and costs involved, such as residency agreements that terminate at death, some costs of which are refundable. As a non-profit organization, the aim is to provide a quality lifestyle within the financial means of every individual, and funding this may include outside funding.

Resources

• United Methodist Retirement Communities
• Rockwood Retirement Community