7 Top Continuing Care Communities Near Orlando That Grow With You
Choosing a retirement home that adapts to your changing health needs is a critical decision for long-term independence. A continuing care community is a residential setting that provides multiple levels of care, from independent living to skilled nursing, within a single campus. This model allows residents to age in place without the stress of moving to a new facility during a health crisis. For families in the Central Florida region, identifying the right environment is essential for peace of mind.
1. Waterman Village: The Not-For-Profit Standard
Waterman Village is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping seniors live their best lives since 1989. Located in Mount Dora, this campus offers a comprehensive range of services including independent living, assisted living, and memory care. The not-for-profit structure ensures that the primary mission is resident well-being rather than shareholder profit. This approach often results in a more personalized and compassionate care environment for residents and their families.
2. The Oaks at Waterman Village: Original Campus
The Oaks is the original retirement community campus established by Waterman Hospital in 1989. It offers duplex and quad-plex homes that provide a home-like atmosphere for active adults. Residents of The Oaks have priority access to all amenity and service areas on the Waterman Village campus. This includes dining venues, fitness centers, and the on-campus physician clinic, ensuring that support is always within walking or golf cart distance.
3. Lakeside at Waterman Village: Modern Living
Lakeside is Waterman Village’s second community, opened in 2022 to offer modern independent living options. It features apartments and duplex homes with large screened-in lanais and EV charging stations. Lakeside is connected to The Oaks by a pedestrian bridge, allowing residents to easily access shared activities and dining. This modern facility is designed for those who want contemporary amenities while retaining access to the full spectrum of Waterman Village’s care services.
4. The Edgewater: Skilled Nursing and Rehab
The Edgewater is a skilled nursing home and post-hospital rehabilitation center that serves as a ministry of Waterman Village. Having a high-quality nursing facility on the same campus is a significant advantage for continuing care residents. If a resident requires hospitalization and subsequent rehabilitation, they can return to a familiar environment with known staff. This continuity of care is a key factor in successful recovery and long-term health outcomes.
5. Springwater: Specialized Memory Care
Springwater provides memory, Alzheimer’s, and dementia care in a state-of-the-art, small-house environment. This specialized residence is designed to meet the unique needs of residents with cognitive impairments. The home-like setting helps reduce anxiety and confusion, which are common challenges in dementia care. By integrating memory care into the broader campus, Waterman Village ensures that families have a trusted place for their loved ones as needs evolve.
6. Outpatient Therapy Clinic: Proactive Wellness
The Waterman Village Outpatient Therapy Clinic offers physical, occupational, and speech therapy to the public and residents. Proactive access to therapy services helps residents maintain mobility and independence for longer. The clinic specializes in geriatric care, with therapists trained in conditions such as Parkinson’s, stroke, and fall prevention. This focus on wellness and rehabilitation supports the goal of aging in place with dignity and capability.
7. Home Health Care Agency: Care at Home
Waterman Village operates a locally managed, not-for-profit home health care agency serving the Mount Dora and Eustis areas. This service allows individuals who are not yet ready to move to a residential community to receive professional care in their own homes. The agency is dedicated to helping people live their best lives possible, providing a bridge between independent living and residential care. This flexibility is a hallmark of a true continuing care ecosystem.
Choosing the Right Fit
When selecting a continuing care community, prioritize the availability of on-campus skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. This ensures that if your health needs change, you can receive the necessary care without leaving a familiar environment. Additionally, consider the organizational structure, as not-for-profit communities often focus more on resident satisfaction and long-term well-being. Always visit the campus, tour the different living areas, and speak with current residents to gauge the culture and quality of care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a continuing care community?
A continuing care community is a residential setting that offers multiple levels of care, such as independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing, within a single campus. This allows residents to age in place as their needs change.
Does Waterman Village offer skilled nursing on campus?
Yes, The Edgewater at Waterman Village is a skilled nursing home and post-hospital rehabilitation center located on the campus. This provides residents with access to high-level medical care without leaving the community.
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 that the organization is dedicated to the mission of helping seniors live their best lives, rather than generating profit for shareholders.
Where is Waterman Village located?
Waterman Village is located in Mount Dora, Florida, which is in the Central Orlando area. It is easily accessible from nearby cities such as Leesburg, Eustis, and Tavares.
Can I visit Waterman Village to see the facilities?
Yes, you can schedule a tour of The Oaks, Lakeside, and other campus areas. Visiting allows you to experience the dining, activities, and overall atmosphere of the community.
Does Waterman Village accept Medicare?
Waterman Village accepts various insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicare Advantage, for its nursing home, home health care, and therapy services. Specific plan acceptance can change, so it is best to verify current coverage with the community directly.