Some people think healthcare means a hospital or a nursing home… others would say it means fitness or a gym. We are guided by our person-centered philosophy and belief that people should maintain their health, physical, mental and spiritual, no matter what level of living is best. To a degree, we call our highest level of support healthcare because there is no place in any community where that focus, professionalism and attention to health is more important. Unlike many other ideas of what these words mean, ours includes a key focus on that care being on the residents’ schedule, matching their desires and preferences, and with an eye toward independence and contribution, for those are two key elements of health for us all.
A healthcare community, like Dogwood Lane at Hermitage Roanoke, offers complete healthcare services, including 24-hour access to nursing professionals, assistance with daily living, rehabilitation and long-term care. Many other options do not offer this level of service to their residents.
Yes, many facilities do not discuss finances with potential residents. At Hermitage Roanoke, we do include a financial and actuarial review for many reasons. Most importantly, we want to be sure residents can live on their terms, and we want to be sure they do not have to move again if they are blessed with longevity of their level of living changes. Hermitage Roanoke is part of Pinnacle Living and is a not-for-profit organization, and that means something to us. We form a lifetime relationship with our residents and make a commitment to provide assistance to those who, through no fault of their own, become unable to fully meet the financial responsibilities of their residence or care. As with any relationship, this one is based on reciprocity. By reviewing your financial and actuarial projections, we can be sure that the plan to call our community home is the right one. The Samaritan Program provides peace of mind to residents who have been blessed by longevity but have outlived their financial resources. Pinnacle Living has never asked a resident to leave solely based upon their inability to pay for the services we provide. This has been an integral part of who we are since our founding in 1948.
Healthcare communities are required to be licensed through the Department of Social Services. We are proud to be licensed by the Virginia Department of Social Services and the Virginia Department of Health, in addition to our accreditation by CARF. If you would like to learn more about the protections and assurances those licenses and accreditation provide for you and your loved one, please visit their websites:
Virginia Department of Social Services
Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF)
Make sure the community has appropriately trained nursing team members, including RNs and specialized caregivers, and that the team member is qualified to appropriately treat multiple-symptom illnesses, physical frailty, and other issues that impact quality of life and care for older persons. Ask questions about the staffing levels at all times of the day when you compare. Different retirement communities may define “healthcare” differently — make sure any community you consider matches your understanding. You should also be aware of how the community plans to provide the care you require as your needs change. And perhaps most of all, you should be aware of what things are important to you in order to enjoy your quality of life — your room’s decor? Social activities? Visiting friends? Getting out into the community? Accessible medical care? Many residents find themselves needing healthcare services temporarily (after surgery, for example) and then returning to their own apartment or home. Determine whether the communities you explore provide this flexibility. Many people find themselves at a time of life when their ability to drive and connect with friends and families is diminished. This frequently leads to depression, poor eating habits, isolation, and other problems that reduce their quality of life. Dogwood Lane at Hermitage Roanoke is designed to combat this danger by providing programs and activities that help residents connect with the greater community and enjoy a richer social and mental life. Many residents find that not only does their physical health improve on entering Hermitage Roanoke, but their emotional and mental health improves as well.
Most people prioritize quality of care, community atmosphere and amenities, and convenience of location.
When visiting a community, look for things such as the residents’ overall appearance.
Do not be shy about talking to the residents about their overall satisfaction with their community. Talk with friends and community members to take advantage of their experience. The more folks you talk to, the better. Hermitage Roanoke is licensed by the Department of Social Services and the Virginia Health Department.
If you have specific questions that are not covered below, please connect with us by calling 804 552 6418, or using our form below.