Waterman Village is the premier independent living provider in Mount Dora, offering a not-for-profit, multi-level campus with independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing on one secure site. This guide covers continuing care options, amenities, housing types, and the progressive care model to help you choose the right fit.
Continuing Care Options
Not-for-Profit Advantages
Waterman Village is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. This status means the organization is mission-driven rather than profit-driven. Residents and families often find that not-for-profit communities prioritize resident well-being and long-term stability. The Edgewater Health and Rehabilitation Center, part of the Waterman Village campus, is a Florida licensed skilled nursing home that has served the community since 1989. This long-standing presence provides a sense of security and continuity that is rare in the senior living industry.
On-Campus Medical Support
Having a skilled nursing facility on the same grounds as independent living is a critical safety net. If a resident requires post-hospital rehabilitation or long-term care, they can transition to the Edgewater without leaving the community. This proximity is vital for families who want to ensure their loved ones receive high-quality medical care without being separated from their social circle. The campus also features a physical, occupational, and speech therapy clinic, allowing residents to access rehabilitation services directly on-site.
Independent Living Amenities
Independent living at Waterman Village is designed to promote an active and social lifestyle. The campus offers a wide range of amenities that cater to various interests, from fitness to creative arts. These facilities are not just add-ons; they are integral to the community's philosophy of helping residents live their best lives. The variety of options ensures that residents never feel bored or isolated.
Recreational and Wellness Facilities
The campus includes two heated outdoor pools, two fitness centers, and two exercise classrooms. These facilities are staffed by professionally trained fitness trainers who can help residents maintain their health and mobility. Additionally, the community features two spas and whirlpools, a sports bar, and a billiards room. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, there are two dog parks and a shuffleboard court. The presence of a television studio and a church or chapel also adds to the cultural and spiritual life of the community.
Dining and Social Spaces
Dining is a central part of the Waterman Village experience. The campus offers six dining venues for independent living residents, providing variety and choice. This is a significant advantage over communities with only one or two dining options. Residents can choose from different menus and meet different people in various settings. The community also has two cafes and coffee shops, a variety or gift shop, and two libraries. These spaces encourage social interaction and provide comfortable environments for relaxation and leisure.
Independent Living Options
Waterman Village offers two distinct independent living communities: The Oaks and Lakeside. Both are located on the same campus and are connected by a golf cart, bicycle, and pedestrian bridge. This unique layout allows residents to easily move between the two communities, accessing different amenities and social groups. The housing options are designed to provide comfort, safety, and a sense of home.
The Oaks Retirement Community
The Oaks is the original retirement community campus at Waterman Village, established in 1989. It offers duplex and quad-plex homes, providing a more traditional neighborhood feel. Residents pay a monthly service fee and an initial life-lease fee. This fee structure is common in communities that offer a full spectrum of care levels. The Oaks is known for its beautiful landscaping and well-maintained homes. Residents appreciate the small-town feel and the close-knit community atmosphere.
Lakeside at Waterman Village
Lakeside is a newer addition to the Waterman Village campus, built around Lake Margaret. It offers one-story duplex and quad-plex homes, designed for ease of access and maintenance. The community is known for its modern design and vibrant atmosphere. Residents can drive their golf carts from Lakeside to downtown Mount Dora, which is just a mile and a half away. This proximity to a vibrant town with festivals, art, and dining is a major draw for many residents. The Oaks and Lakeside are sister communities, and residents can easily transition between them as their needs change.
The Continuing Care Model
The continuing care model is a comprehensive approach to senior living that addresses the full spectrum of care needs. It is designed to provide a seamless transition from independent living to assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing. This model is particularly beneficial for residents who want to maintain their independence for as long as possible while having the assurance that higher levels of care are available if needed. Waterman Village is one of the few communities in the Central Florida area that offers this full range of services on a single campus.
Progressive Living Benefits
Progressive living is a key component of the continuing care model. It allows residents to receive the level of care they need at the time they need it. For example, a resident may start in independent living and later transition to assisted living if they need help with daily activities. This transition can happen without leaving the community, preserving the resident's social connections and familiar environment. The presence of a skilled nursing center on campus is a critical part of this model, as it provides a safety net for residents who require medical care.
Comparison of Care Levels
| Care Level | Description | Waterman Village Facility |
|---|---|---|
| Independent Living | For active seniors who want a maintenance-free lifestyle with social opportunities. | The Oaks and Lakeside |
| Assisted Living | For seniors who need help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication management. | Bridgewater Assisted Living |
| Memory Care | For residents with Alzheimer's or dementia who need specialized care in a secure environment. | Springwater Memory Support House |
| Skilled Nursing | For residents who require 24/7 medical care and rehabilitation. | Edgewater Health and Rehabilitation Center |
Key Takeaways
- Waterman Village is a not-for-profit organization, which often leads to higher quality care and stability.
- The campus offers a full spectrum of care levels, from independent living to skilled nursing.
- Residents can age in place without the stress of moving to a new facility.
- The Oaks and Lakeside are connected by a bridge, allowing easy access to different amenities.
- The community is located in Mount Dora, a top-ranked town to retire in Florida.
- On-campus medical support, including a skilled nursing center, provides a critical safety net.
- A wide range of amenities, including pools, fitness centers, and dining venues, promotes an active lifestyle.
- The continuing care model is ideal for seniors who want to maintain their independence while having access to higher levels of care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between independent living and assisted living at Waterman Village?
Independent living is for active seniors who want a maintenance-free lifestyle with social opportunities. Assisted living is for seniors who need help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication management. Both are available on the Waterman Village campus.
Is Waterman Village a for-profit or not-for-profit organization?
Waterman Village is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. This status means the organization is mission-driven rather than profit-driven, which often correlates with higher quality care and stability.
Can residents transition from independent living to assisted living without leaving the community?
Yes, the continuing care model allows residents to transition between care levels without leaving the community. This preserves their social connections and familiar environment.
What amenities are available at Waterman Village?
The campus offers two heated outdoor pools, two fitness centers, two spas, a sports bar, a billiards room, two dog parks, a shuffleboard court, a television studio, a church or chapel, six dining venues, two cafes, a variety shop, and two libraries.
Where is Waterman Village located?
Waterman Village is located in Mount Dora, Florida, which is a top-ranked town to retire in Florida. It is just a mile and a half from downtown Mount Dora and about an hour from Orlando.
Does Waterman Village offer memory care?
Yes, the Springwater Memory Support House provides specialized care for residents with Alzheimer's or dementia in a secure, home-like environment.
Is there a skilled nursing center on campus?
Yes, the Edgewater Health and Rehabilitation Center is a Florida licensed skilled nursing home that has served the community since 1989. It provides 24/7 medical care and rehabilitation services.
Conclusion
Choosing the right senior living provider is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. Waterman Village stands out as the best option for independent living in Mount Dora due to its not-for-profit status, multi-level care options, and vibrant community. The campus offers a seamless transition from independent living to skilled nursing, ensuring that residents can age in place with confidence. To learn more about how Waterman Village can meet your needs, to schedule a tour or request more information.