According to the article, “To be named to this distinctive group, the homes received five stars, the highest overall rating, from the federal government’s Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). A facility’s overall rating is geared to its performance in health inspections, nurse staffing and medical care. Homes are ranked in tiers according to their star ratings in the three individual areas. With each tier, the order is alphabetical.”

The CMS “Five-Star Quality Rating System” is used for skilled nursing facilities throughout the United States. Only 10% of all nursing homes in the United States receive this ranking.

Friendship Village Administrator, Ron Donacik states, “We thank our entire care team whose dedication and commitment to quality care enabled us to achieve our five star rating, as well as our place on this distinctive list.

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“An ‘A’ rating from one of the nation’s major rating agencies is a significant achievement,” says Rick Meyer, executive director at Friendship Village of Bloomington. “At a time when some continuing care retirement communities across the country are struggling financially, our ‘A’ rating is an important indicator of our financial strength
and stability.”

Tax-Exempt Bond Offering
The “A” bond rating allows Lifespace Communities, a not-for-profit organization, to raise capital more easily, with lower financing and debt costs. “We can meet our capital/construction needs in the future on more favorable terms,” Meyer says. “That’s advantageous for our residents, who benefit from the capital improvements.”

The bond proceeds will be used in part for capital improvements and wellness programs at Friendship Village of Bloomington.

“We continue to reinvest in the community, enhancing the quality of life for all our residents,” Meyer says. “As a result, our occupancy has remained consistent in spite of the economy. This was another factor in our ‘A’ rating.”

According to Fitch, the rating reflects Lifespace Communities’ light debt and strong debt service coverage, capital spending and revenue. It’s also based on the diverse locations of the 11 senior living communities, located in Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, Illinois, Pennsylvania and Florida.

Highest-Rated System Provider
With multiple continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) across the country, Lifespace Communities is considered a “system provider.” According to Jim LeBuhn, Fitch senior director, “Within the Fitch portfolio of rated credits, there is no system rated higher than Lifespace Communities.”

“We encourage seniors to scrutinize this kind of information before joining a community,” Meyer says. “We want them to know that their community is a safe, sound investment.”

All 11 Lifespace communities are accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities and the Continuing Care Accreditation Commission (CARF-CCAC). Only 15% of communities nationally have received this accreditation, which recognizes the highest standards in administration, finance, care and services to seniors.

Lifespace Communities, Inc. is a nationally recognized not-for-profit leader providing an active lifestyle to more than 4,500 seniors residing in 11 communities in seven states. Founded in 1976, the company’s mission is to create and sustain communities celebrating the limitless possibilities in the lives of seniors. For more information, visit www.lifespacecommunities.com and www.friendshipvillagemn.com.

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Such an outstanding achievement is made possible only by the daily commitment and dedication of the exceptional staff of Friendship Village of Bloomington.

“This survey represents a significant accomplishment for our entire healthcare team,” said Ron Donacik, Administrator of Friendship Village. “The survey is not simply a snapshot, but a reflection of the daily effort made in serving our residents. I am very proud of our staff and their commitment to excellence!”

The survey is conducted annually by the Minnesota Department of Health, who have indicated that only three percent of all nursing homes surveyed in Minnesota received a deficiency-free rating in 2010. To receive such a rating, nursing homes are evaluated on a combination of health regulations, the quality of the nursing home staff, and various performance quality measures. The survey results underscore Friendship Village and their commitment to providing exceptional care to its residents.

“People who see the campus for the first time are shocked that it looks so fresh and new,” says Karen Lloyd, Director of Wellness Programs.

Friendship Village celebrated its 30th anniversary with a week-long series of celebrations and inspiring lectures. Colin Milner, founder and president of the International Council on Active Aging, was a keynote speaker. He is an international presence for promoting multi-dimensional programs for older adults.

While visiting Friendship Village, he met with the resident council and the wellness committee comprised of residents and staff. Milner noted in the Journal of Active Aging, that, “The Friendship Village residents and staff are creating a great culture of wellness that others can use as a model.” Older adults who choose to live here are really choosing to live life to its fullest.

Living life to the fullest at Friendship Village, 8100 Highwood Drive in Bloomington, means the opportunities available to residents are vast.

Services such as transportation, dining and housekeeping are expected. Homecare, therapies and on site nursing services are also available, should a person need it.

This is also a place where programs and amenities change with the times. The staff is committed and responds to resident satisfaction surveys that reveal what residents are looking for. Data gathering from future residents tells the staff that older adults are increasingly looking for a healthy and engaged lifestyle. They want more choices than ever. To respond to that demand, Friendship Village has brought a wellness culture to the forefront of its efforts.

“In order to serve the wishes of those seeking a vibrant lifestyle, we have developed a six dimensional wellness program that pays attention to the whole person,” says Lloyd. “The model program includes the areas of intellectual, physical, social, emotional, spiritual and vocational.”

Intellectual pursuits are designed to stretch and challenge the mind. Lectures, book reviews, group discussions, memoir writing, computer lab and classes, plus tours and trips to history centers, theatres, galleries and museums occur regularly.

A new computerized brain fitness program has taken off in the last few months, with almost 200 residents participating.

Fitness manager, Mia Bremer, is inspired and knowledgeable about older adult fitness. She gets people moving and feeling confident about gaining strength, balance and flexibility and helps find the right class for each person. Because the physical dimension is so important, a full slate of state of the art cardio and strength equipment is available in addition to the five levels of instructor-led classes.

Walking maps are available for inside and outside ventures. Personal training and massage are also options on site. Other activities include line dancing, Tai Chi, billiards, a Wii gaming system, putting greens, resident gardens.

Social gatherings and parties foster harmony with others. Lloyd adds, “You can’t help but meet others with common interests by attending the welcoming events, great parties and local excursions.” Evening offerings include performances by local musicians, movies, lectures and trips to local shows.

Emotional wellness allows one to experience life’s ups and downs with enthusiasm and grace. Various groups are organized for loss support, memory care and Parkinson’s support. There is also a greeter program to assist new residents into the community. There is plenty of time to share life stories in the weekly memoir writing class.

Spiritual care opportunities include ecumenical services, recognition of faith traditions and holidays, community prayers, spiritual growth classes, prayer shawl knitting and counseling.

Spiritual growth programs both support and challenge one’s thoughts. The community encourages each person to live each day consistent with their own personal values.

Vocational wellness involves carrying out one’s purpose. Opportunities to share one’s gifts and talents abound. There are 28 committees that are overseen by the active resident council. Others share musical skills, volunteer to assist others, continue a lifelong career or find a new job.

In a community with 500 residents, there is room for many interests. “There is always something cooking that inspires people to get involved,” says Lloyd. “The wellness program offers opportunities that go far beyond what you might expect.”

One resident recently said, “I thought my life would get smaller living in a retirement community, but I can’t believe how much my life has expanded since I moved here.”

Friendship Village is owned by Lifespace Communities, Inc., a non-profit corporation serving the needs of the senior community since 1976.

(This was a reprint of a “Who’s Who in Your Community” article that first appeared in the Minnesota Sun News.)

“Our new corporate name and brand has been more than 30 years in the making and is grounded in what really matters to today’s seniors. While we have been delivering the full engagement and independence that seniors demand, we found that our former identity didn’t communicate our complete offering to our target audience,” said Scott Harrison, Lifespace Communities CEO.

“Our experience and research show that seniors want to enjoy the good things in life, have freedom from logistics and feel secure in their financial future. They want opportunities to make connections, explore self-expression, wellness and personal growth while giving back to the community. Lifespace encapsulates all these concepts in our new brand,” said Harrison.

The organization’s new name change includes a corporate identity system that adds “A Lifespace Community” to each well-established local community name and standardizes the design of all the organization’s facilities to create a consistent look.

The development of the new Lifespace Communities brand and identity included extensive market research and interviews with industry experts, residents, prospective residents and community leaders.

Research showed that seniors are more demanding about quality, choices and control. They want options, flexibility, lifestyle amenities and the ability to participate in decision-making in their retirement communities. Personal and specialized activities rather than group activities are in higher demand and seniors are interested in lifelong learning, community and retail services along with guest and family-friendly facilities.

“At Lifespace Communities we are answering the consumer demands of the baby boomer generation which includes being more resident-centered and providing more social connections,” said Harrison. “We have always maintained the highest customer service standards at our communities and that continues to be one of the top priorities for seniors. With a staff of 2,000 serving 4,500 residents, we can and do provide the best in customer service and quality health care for seniors.”

Lifespace Communities, Inc. is the seventh largest provider of not-for-profit senior independent living communities in the U.S. Founded in 1976, the organization owns and manages a network of 11 Lifespace communities in Florida, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Nebraska and Pennsylvania and is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa. Residents number more than 4,500 and the organization employs a staff of 2,000.

Nestled against the Hyland Lake Park Reserve, Friendship Village offers a picturesque haven that’s quietly secluded yet just minutes from Minneapolis/St. Paul and the area’s scenic lakes and parks. A truly charming backdrop, yet what’s truly unique about this community is not the setting but rather the mind-set.

Committed to excellence, innovation, and creating a community celebrating the lives of seniors, Friendship Village’s infrastructure reaches beyond modern buildings, lush gardens, and beautifully appointed spaces. Here the true focus is on the individual and maximizing every aspect of his or her life. Designed specifically to achieve these goals, the innovative and highly successful Wellness Program takes a well-rounded approach embracing six different aspects of life.

“Wellness does not simply refer to the physical state,” observes Friendship Village’s Director Rick Meyer. “In order to realize the limitless possibilities of senior life, we base our programs on six critical dimensions: social, vocational, spiritual, physical, intellectual, and emotional.

“Anticipating needs and exceeding expectations is more than a slogan,” he continues, “it is a promise made and kept by our committed, professional staff whose passionate attention to detail has provided an optimal setting for growth and enrichment to hundreds of seniors for three decades.”

Through responsible stewardship and sincere dedication to their residents, Friendship Village offers a comprehensive and enhanced lifestyle that celebrates the lives of seniors and encourages the development of every facet of life.

“We are truly a cut-above,” says Karen Lloyd Director of Friendship Village’s Wellness Programs. “As Minnesota’s only true Life Care community, Friendship Village has so much to offer! Naturally, everyone’s first impression is one of wonder at the incredible natural beauty, but as they delve deeper into our living spaces, programs, and amenities, they realize that this is an exceptional and unique community. For example, our Fitness Program has been an overwhelming success! Within the first eight months of initiating the program we had regular participation from almost 300 of our residents.”

In addition to inspiring support, such as that received from Fitness Manager Mia Bremer, residents of Friendship Village are encouraged by interacting with other specialists that add variety to the program, such as Tai Chi classes, massage and personal training sessions. High-tech software helps track progress for those who like to know how they’re doing “by the numbers”. Others enjoy the ongoing social aspect of classes designed especially for them.

“Initially residents underwent the Rikle-Jones Senior Fit Test to determine their fitness level,” Lloyd explains. “Mia then provided class placement levels and other fitness recommendations for each resident. Fitness assessments are offered regularly to provide benchmarks for senior fitness. Additionally a software program called BSDI Fitness Analyst and Check-in allows Mia to track progress and class attendance for the 300+ participants. In the first year of this measured program, there have been more than 9300 check-ins for classes alone. The fitness center also attracts more than 200 fitness equipment uses per week.”
Bremer reports that residents are seeing great health benefits such as increased endurance, stronger muscles, faster gait and improved bone mass.

Why so much focus on fitness? According to Lloyd it’s a critical to every other aspect of a full and meaningful life.

“This component allows one to become involved and to stay involved in community life,” she explains. “By engaging in fitness programs such as those offered here at Friendship Village, everyone has a higher potential to contribute to a vibrant, active and positive environment in which to live. And that is what Friendship Village is all about.”

Obviously, the residents agree as the numbers will attest. Classes continue to grow at such a rate that additional sessions are added on a regular basis and this widespread ‘fitness revolution’ appears to directly impact residents involvement in other community activities as well.

“We’ve always measured our success by how well we meet the needs of our residents. That’s why we work so closely with them, listening to them, getting to know them as individuals, and working hand-in-hand to create a community we can all be proud of,” notes Meyer. “We routinely conduct surveys to ensure our residents are satisfied and we continually make adjustments or changes based on their feedback. We have an open book policy that fully discloses community operations, including finances. In addition, our numerous resident committees help provide feedback and oversee community operations for a truly ‘hands-on’ involvement in their own community.”

Longtime resident Alice Mae Defenbaugh is an excellent example of how Friendship Village neighbors feel about their community. A resident since the doors opened in 1979, Defenbaugh and her husband were still working when they first moved in. As time went on, they eventually retired and spent more and more time volunteering; he as an artist who designed posters and she as a musician. She still remains an invaluable and active volunteer singing for Vespers, writing poetry, and playing piano for various community events.

“I’m thankful that I have this lovely place in which to live,” she says. “I like knowing that I can be with people when I want or spend time alone if I choose. I like having the freedom to do what I enjoy while being in a safe place. I’m so content, I feel guilty!”

“Potential residents come in, tour our facilities and once they decide this is where they want to call ‘home’, sign a contract that essentially ensures they will be taken care of for the rest of their lives,” Lloyd explains. “Applicants agree to an examination by our medical director which assesses their level of functional independence. What’s so wonderful and reassuring is that once they move in, whether individuals or couples, they know that regardless of what the future brings, they will be cared for in familiar surroundings amongst family and friends. The resident contract guarantees on-going care even if they should run out of funds.
“At Friendship Village we offer independent living, skilled nursing, memory care, and boarding care (similar to assisted living),” notes Lloyd.

Gracious Independence

Independent living apartments are offered in a variety of sizes and floor plans ranging from a comfortable alcove to spacious one-, two- or three-bedroom apartments. Featuring the latest in modern conveniences these elegant homes offer optional garages, including underground parking.

“Residents are pleased to discover our elegant and very contemporary apartments are custom–decorated to suit individual tastes,” says Lloyd. “You may even choose the addition of an electric fireplace. These personal touches make each apartment truly feel like home. Three meals served daily, one meal of your choice is at no additional cost and there are lovely dining options including the main dining room and Village Café. The Highwood Room provides a nice place to meet for socializing before or after dinner.

Artfully situated around the peaceful pond, Parkview Townhomes offer a wonderful opportunity for residents to select a larger home with attached garages. Townhome residents enjoy all of the services and amenities offered in the main building. Lush landscaping is immaculately cared for while residents enjoy other pursuits. However, for those who long to stimulate that green thumb, garden beds near entries or one of the 40 raised beds within the resident garden offer the perfect venue.

Residents are free to actually enjoy their new home without worrying about shoveling snow, mowing the lawn, or washing windows. At Friendship Village, we take care of the chores; from housekeeping and flat laundry service to routine maintenance and grounds-keeping so residents are free to get out and enjoy the day!”

And what a myriad of opportunities await! Residents stay as busy or relaxed as they choose. For those who enjoy working with their hands there is a fully equipped woodworking shop. Residents might start their day with an early morning workout on the ergonomically efficient exercise equipment, in the clean, modern Fitness Center, or attend a committee meeting. “There is so much to do here, truly it’s like a small town,” observes Lloyd. “The socializing is ongoing whether in the Billiards Room, Highwood Room Lounge, fully-stocked library, memoir writing class, computer lab or on the putting green!” Evening dinner/dance parties are not to be missed — excellent food and music for dancing are provided in the large hall that reminds one of a hotel ballroom.

There is also a beauty and barbershop, on-site banking, and scheduled transportation as well as planned outings to shopping, museums, theater, restaurants, and professional sports events. Well-known and highly credentialed guest lecturers are invited by the Exploring Ideas committee. Past lecturers have covered such topics as mass transportation, the human genome factor, Minnesota geology, various learning processedprocesses, toxins in the environment, art & religion, economics and the postal service.

Skilled Care At Your Fingertips

It’s always comforting to know that, should you need it, help is close at hand. That’s exactly the security and peace of mind residents of Friendship Village enjoy.. Offering the comfort and convenience of an on-site, fully equipped, state-licensed Health Care Center, Highwood Park provides emergency, restorative, and long-term nursing care.

Highwood Park features five residential sectors offering varying levels of health care. Maple, Linden, and Tamarack are the Medicare certified facilities while Aspen and Red Pine offer Boarding Care levels with Red Pine focusing on those with memory impairment.

“What’s so significant about having these healthcare facilities within Friendship Village is that, particularly in the case of couples, there’s no real separation,” notes Lloyd. “Should one of the spouses require short-term or even ongoing care they are still nearby so visiting is convenient. This is wonderfully comforting to both parties.”

The Home Care nursing staff is also available to visit residents within their apartments or townhomes offering assistance with grooming, medication, and other concerns while allowing them to remain in their own home. They also offer appointments on site for various medical practitioners, saving residents a trip across town.

Retirement Redefined

It’s important to note that only 15% of all continuing care retirement communities in the country are accredited by CCAC, it’s an accreditation in which Friendship Village takes great pride.

As one of the eleven Life Care Retirement Communities, Inc. (LCRC), Friendship Village reflects the rigorous standards for quality, integrity, responsibility and accountability established by the Continuing Care Accreditation Commission (CCAC). It’s important to note that only 15% of all continuing care retirement communities in the country are accredited by CCAC, it’s an accreditation in which Friendship Village takes great pride.

The Mission of Life Care Retirement Communities, Inc. is to create communities that celebrate the lives of seniors.

And, while there may be many “retirement” communities throughout the country, only true Life Care communities afford seniors the peace of mind that comes with long-term health care as part of the contract.

Based in Des Moines, Iowa, Life Care Retirement Communities, Inc. was founded in 1976 as a guiding sponsor for newly developed, not-for-profit retirement communities. The goal was simple — help create exceptional, financially sound communities so that people might enjoy a more rewarding and secure retirement. As the fifth largest provider in the country, LCRC has endeavored to create environments that encourage individual growth while also providing a concrete program that ensures quality care regardless of what the future might bring.

“Looking to the future, we will continue to seek out programs and services that will promote excellence,” says Meyer. “We are dedicated to creating limitless possibilities for the present and the future here at Friendship Village.”

For more information on Friendship Village please call (952) 831-7500 or visit www.friendshipvillagemn.com.

(This was a reprint of an article that first appeared in Twin Cities’ Gold Age Magazine.)