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Looking for the right independent living community is like shopping for a new home, but more; this time, you’re considering its community, a lifestyle, and a new beginning. So, let’s sit back, grab a cup of coffee or tea, and chat about hidden gems in St. Augustine, Florida – Westminster St. Augustine. It’s not just a place to stay; it’s a place to live, surrounded by friends and engaging activities.

You see, Westminster isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a place to live. Picture waking up with the sun on your face, surrounded by friendly faces who quickly become friends. Imagine a day filled with engaging activities, laughter, creativity, and even some newfound hobbies. But it’s not all fun and games. There’s a support system, a family atmosphere, and a genuine caring spirit that makes Westminster more than a community; it makes it home.

The Whole Package in One Spot

Westminster isn’t just any senior living spot. It offers everything: independent living, assisted living, and even skilled nursing. Think of it as a one-stop shop where you can find comfort, care, and company. Plus, there’s a constant buzz of activities to jump into. Boredom? What’s that?

First off, it’s got everything covered: independent living for those who still feel like dancing, assisted living for when you might need a little help with the two-step, and skilled nursing if you need someone to watch over you along the way.

Westminster is a community where you can truly have it all. If you want to wake up and hit the gym, we got you covered! Feel like making art? We have a class for you to join! Hungry for social gatherings? We offer musical performances, cultural outings, and more; check out our social calendar. And the staff, they’re not just there to take care of the chores. They’re part of the community, helping everyone find their groove, whether that’s in the garden, the game room, or even the dining hall. Boredom? At Westminster, that’s a word you’ll quickly forget.

Living Independently, But Together

Living independently here means having your personal space, but also a bunch of pals right next door. Picture having your cozy little nook where you can rest, put your feet up, read a good a book, or enjoy a good tv show. It’s your personal haven, but when you step outside, it’s a world of activities and friendly faces.

But what we love most about Westminster’s Independent living is that it’s not just about doing stuff. It’s about sharing experiences with coffee chats by the garden, friendly nods in the hallways, and shared smiles at the dinner table that make every day feel like a gathering of friends.

You’re never alone unless you want to be. And even then, you know your pals are just right next door, always ready for a chat, a laugh, or a shared adventure. It’s like living in that friendly small town where everyone knows your name, all wrapped up in the warm, welcoming embrace of Westminster. Now that’s independent living with a cherry on top!

A Helping Hand When You Need It

Assisted living at Westminster gives that extra bit of support without compromising on the fun part. The dedicated staff has got your back, making sure you’re part of all the action while ensuring everything you need is right at hand. We understand that life doesn’t stop being fun just because you need a little extra support. And we’re all about keeping the good times rolling.

And get this, our staff doesn’t just take care of your needs; they take the time to know you. Your likes, your quirks, your favorite stories – they’re all ears. It’s like having a personal concierge, friend, and family member rolled into one, always ready to lend a hand or share a joke.

Top-Notch Care With A Slice of Fun

The skilled nursing here? It’s top tier. But beyond the excellent medical care, it’s the laughter and connections that stand out. The team ensures you’re not just cared for, but also involved, entertained, and cherished. Here, feeling at home is the norm.

At Westminster nurses don’t just check your vitals, but also check in on your day. A place where therapists aren’t just concerned about your mobility but also concerned on if you’re up and moving in the fun department. The staff at Westminster’s skilled nursing don’t see you as a patient; they see you as a person. They love knowing what makes you smile, what sparks your interest and what makes you, YOU! That’s why they tailor activities, entertainment, and even menus to fit not just your needs but your tastes. Love watching classic movies? They’ll pull up a chair and join you. Craving a taste of a family recipe? They’ll do their best to whip it up. Want to stay connected with family and friends? They’ll set up video chats and help you stay in touch.

Think of it as stepping into a community where feeling at home isn’t just a nice sentiment; it’s the norm. And trust us, that makes healing not just more manageable but a whole lot more enjoyable, too!

More Than Just Neighbors – We’re A Community!

Westminster doesn’t exist in a bubble. We’re intertwined with the hustle and bustle of St. Augustine. Residents often find themselves exploring local events, diving into the area’s history, or just soaking in the local energy. We’re not just in St. Augustine; we’re a part of it!

Finding a new community is like starting a new chapter, filled with fresh faces, experiences, and stories. Westminster St. Augustine is that perfect blend of care, camaraderie, and local culture. Whether you’re thinking of moving in yourself or looking for someone dear, this might just be the place. Curious? Pop over to our website or better yet, come on down and check it out yourself!

When a hurricane or tropical storm threatens Florida, like Hurricane Idalia this week, team members at Westminster Communities of Florida have a top priority: Ensuring the safety and well-being of the residents we serve. Our Mission is to serve from the heart and inspire older adults to enjoy happy, healthy and purposeful lives.

What impact has Hurricane Idalia had? Some of our dedicated team members are living out our Mission, today, by evacuating with residents or sheltering at their communities through the storm. Regardless of their normal jobs, their principal responsibility right now is to provide for the residents’ needs.

Today we caught up with five of these team members to learn about their experiences, why they chose to stay at their community or evacuate with residents, and what is inspiring them to stay hard at work during a storm.

Jackie Walker Ellison, Cook, Westminster Shores, temporarily at Westminster Winter Park

In St. Petersburg, Westminster Shores was forced to relocate residents out of the path of the storm. Jackie Walker Ellison always knew she would be with the residents, from the moment she first heard. “The residents said to me, ‘Jackie, are you coming with us? I know we’ll be OK if you come with us.’ So I had no doubt,” Ellison said. “I knew for sure I would be evacuating, I called my husband and my mother and I told them, ‘I’m going with my residents, I’ll see you whenever.’ ”

The group of 24 residents was accompanied by Ellison to Westminster Winter Park, where they’re enjoying the hospitality of the residents and team members there. The Westminster Shores team is occupied with providing for the needs of the residents during Hurricane Idalia. “I think it brings everyone together as a team,” she said.

Ellison has worked at Westminster Shores for 29 years, and “I love my residents. I wouldn’t have been here so long if I didn’t love this place and my residents. God put us here for a reason,” she said. “Right now, the residents are happy, we’ve been watching movies and playing games, and everything is going smoothly.”

Michele McCann, Assisted Living Activities Coordinator, Westminster Palms, sheltering in place

“I choose to be with the residents during the most emotional time, like a hurricane, because that’s my quality as a caregiver,” said Michele McCann, Assisted Living Activities Coordinator at Westminster Palms. “Challenging times like this bring out the best in people, and I get to see it and share it.”

McCann was sheltering in place at the community in St. Petersburg, along with residents from Westminster Palms and residents from Westminster Point Pleasant in Bradenton. She has lived in Florida for more than 7 years, and has experienced three hurricanes in St. Petersburg so far. McCann said she feels that the way the team bonds, whether through an evacuation or sheltering in place, makes the team stronger. “We are going to come out better on the other side of this! We always do. We are so lucky that we are here, in our home, together, instead of relocating like so many had to. I have come to feel like this is my home, too.”

Carlos Santiago, Maintenance Engineer, Westminster Point Pleasant and Tiffany Mestre, Administrative Assistant, Community Support Services, temporarily at Legacy Pointe at UCF

A group of residents from Westminster Point Pleasant were also with Maintenance Engineer Carlos Santiago and Tiffany Mestre, an administrative assistant at our Community Support Services office in Orlando. The residents had evacuated from Bradenton due to the risk of storm surge and flooding, and were enjoying the hospitality of Legacy Pointe at UCF.

Santiago, the maintenance engineer, said that he had been through the worst in 2017 when Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico. “We were there with no power for 60 days, and we weren’t able to do anything,” he said. By comparison, he felt that everything was under control and being well maintained for the residents through both of his hurricane experiences as a Westminster team member.

“This job is personal for me,” Santiago said. “The residents are my family and I want to make sure that they are well taken care of.” In 2022, Santiago was recognized as Westminster Point Pleasant’s Team Member of the Year for his dedicated service to the residents. He said it was his honor to serve the residents.

Evacuating with the residents is just another extension of his commitment to the community, Santiago said. “This is my second time evacuating with the residents, and it doesn’t matter how many more. I will always volunteer to be there for them. We are here for each other and for the residents.”

Countless storms had also affected Mestre, a Florida native. But she had never had an experience like today’s. “It’s wonderful to help the residents and hear about their interests and stories. This is a great way to see how the residents live,” Mestre said. “I am getting to know what a day in the life of a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) and an ADON (Assistant Director of Nursing) are like. It has opened my eyes. Bless their souls for doing all of this.”

The effects of the storm had been mild in Orlando, but Mestre said that nevertheless, she and the residents felt more secure and had been brought closer together by the experience – and the residents were thankful for the security. “This has really brought our Mission to life for me in a way I had not experienced it,” said Mestre.

For Santiago, part of living in a hurricane zone meant more practice – and that he had found that the team is getting stronger through the experience. “The more we do this together, the more we become comfortable with each other, and the better organized we become. When you send a group of people together for one purpose and for our Mission, we get the opportunity to grow together and learn from each other,” said Santiago.

Beth Szabo, Services Coordinator, Riverside Presbyterian Apartments, sheltering in place

Another part of the Westminster Mission is to serve residents with low to moderate incomes, in our affordable Rental Retirement Communities. Beth Szabo, services coordinator at Riverside Presbyterian Apartments, was sheltering in place at the community to ensure that the residents were well cared for throughout the potential effects of the storm in Jacksonville.

“I’ve lived in Jacksonville since 1976, so I have lost count of how many hurricanes I’ve been through now. In 2004 they were coming so frequently we all said, ‘I’m over it, just let it go,’ ” said Szabo. “We have had to evacuate a few times over the years, like for Hurricane Matthew in 2016. But we did not have to this time.”

For Szabo, serving during a hurricane is a natural extension of her choice to work at the community, because the residents are like her extended family. “I have a heart for seniors, and the residents here mean a lot to me,” she said. “If something happens then I want to be here to help them.”

Szabo added that she feels safer riding out a storm at Riverside Presbyterian Apartments than at home. “Here at the community, I know that we have a great team looking out for everyone. We’re very small but we support each other.”

A facet of our Mission

While a hurricane is unexpected, serving the residents and supporting their fellow team members wherever we are and however we can is just another facet of the Mission of Westminster Communities of Florida: We serve from the heart and inspire older adults to enjoy happy, healthy and purposeful lives.

Be sure to learn all about how you can make a Westminster community your home to live or to work – find a community near you or follow us on Facebook and on LinkedIn!

Heading to your first St. Augustine assisted living tour? No matter where you’re located, there is important information you should ask about during these tours. 

Assisted living in St. Augustine can be a wonderful option for aging adults who want to remain independent and dignified. When you go on your tour, don’t forget to ask these 3 important questions. 

1. What Amenities Do You Offer?

Amenities can be the difference between an enjoyable living experience and a bored, unsatisfying one. Assisted living communities frequently offer amenities like pools, dining areas, and social spaces. 

The answer to this question will help you gauge whether the facility is right for you or your loved one. Try to find assisted living communities that align with your hobbies and interests. 

For example, if you value swimming, a community pool is a must-have at your assisted living facility. Others may enjoy resident crafting classes or other educational opportunities. You can learn about the community’s events and amenities by asking your tour guide upfront. 

2. What Are Your Residential Options?

Many assisted living communities have several types of residences to choose from. You will want to know your options so you can choose the best living space for you or your loved one. Most retirement communities offer independent living, assisted living, and rehabilitation spaces. 

Independent Living

Independent living is for aging adults who want to retire with excitement, joy, and plenty of opportunities to thrive. You gain access to all of the community amenities and services while maintaining your own residence. If you or your loved one does not need assistance with basic daily living, independent living is likely the right choice. 

Assisted Living

Assisted living is a blend between independent living and 24-hour nursing care (like what you would find in a nursing home). You get help with basic daily tasks like dressing, bathing, and cleaning. However, you can still remain independent. 

3. Do You Have a Health and Wellness Program?

Staying physically, mentally, and socially healthy as you get older is essential for graceful aging. Health and wellness programs help you thrive and stay informed about the best ways to care for yourself. These programs often include information about nutrition, cultural learning, and physical fitness. 

Find the Right St. Augustine Assisted Living Facility

By asking these essential questions, you will find the best St. Augustine facility for yourself or your loved one. Don’t be afraid to ask additional questions — the staff is there to help.

Some of the perks of St. Augustine assisted living include the numerous attractions around the area. 

Of course, there are gorgeous sandy beaches, such as Vilano Beach and St. Augustine Beach, but perhaps you’re looking for something a little more mentally stimulating. How about taking in one of St. Augustine’s more interesting sights? There are plenty of activities that can be enjoyed solo, with friends, or with your whole family. 

1. St. Augustine Wildlife Reserve

Since 1981, the St. Augustine Wildlife Reserve has taken in abused and unwanted exotic animals. This is not a place where animals are bred or sold; instead, it’s a place of rescue. 

So what’s the difference between this reserve and a zoo? At the Wildlife Reserve, seeing the animals is a much more educational experience that allows visitors to get closer to the animals. While the center won’t let guests get hands-on, the goal is to instill a sense of wonder and awe toward the incredible variety of nature. 

2. Castillo de San Marcos

This 17th-century Spanish fort was built to protect trade routes, but now it’s a breathtaking historical landmark. While at the fort, guests can enjoy the gorgeous view of Matanzas Bay and take in a bit of history.

The holes that bullets during one of the many sieges that failed to take over the fort — one such attack in 1702 lasted for two months! — are still visible today. In fact, cannonballs from invading forces are still lodged in the fort’s walls. 

Thanks to its construction from coquina, a sedimentary rock, the walls are far less brittle than similar walls constructed from harder materials, such as granite. This allowed the fort to absorb impacts that would have destroyed lesser structures.

The fort is located in the historic district near the St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum and a few blocks north of the Lightner Museum.

3. World Golf Hall of Fame Museum

Celebrating the greatest champions of the sport, the World Golf Museum features exhibits with interactive storytelling, important artifacts, artwork, and plenty of video footage, audio, and photos. See the moments that define golf retold through displays, and enjoy exhibits such as the Member Locker Room and The Players Experience.

There’s also The Challenge Hole, where guests can try out a complimentary shot on a recreation of the 17th hole of TPC Sawgrass. The museum also features a 275-seat 3D IMAX theater and space for weddings, meetings, and corporate events. If you’re a fan of golf, this museum is a must-visit. 

The Benefits of St. Augustine Assisted Living

St. Augustine is a wonderful place to live, with unbelievable weather and plenty of sights and sounds to experience. Whether you have family visiting or want to enjoy quality time with friends in assisted living in Saint Augustine, you’ll never run out of things to do.

Transitioning to assisted living is one of the biggest decisions that seniors and their families will make. Most seniors have a positive experience, but it is still important to have the right conversations before choosing a community. You should discuss several topics before your loved one transitions to St. Augustine assisted living.

How They Feel About Transitioning to Assisted Living

One of the most important topics to discuss with aging parents before a transition to assisted living is how they feel about the move. Some seniors embrace assisted living and are excited to move, while others have more hesitation. 

Knowing how your parents feel about the transition will be important when choosing a community. The staff in assisted living communities can be very helpful in easing any worries. 

What Type of Residence Do They Want to Maintain?

The residences provided by assisted living range from modest apartments to whole homes. A number of factors should be considered when selecting a residence size, including the number of people living in the unit, whether there are pets, and what type of upkeep is required. 

Not all assisted living communities offer every type of residence, so it is important to keep this in mind during your search.

The Types of Activities and Amenities that Are Important to Them

One of the biggest differences between assisted living communities is the amenities offered. Some of the services or amenities that you can consider ahead of time include:

• On-site dining
• Fitness center
• Dining room
• Clubhouse
• Outdoor activities
• Beauty salon
• Library
• Housekeeping
• Security
• Transportation

Amenities can make a big difference in a person’s quality of life, so make sure to discuss this with your parents before making a decision.

The Financial Situation of Your Parents or Family

The cost of assisted living communities can vary greatly. Cost is something that you should discuss with your parents before they decide which community they want to join. 

Assisted living communities also differ in the forms of payment they accept, including insurance. Some also offer flexible payment options to make assisted living accessible to more families.

Choosing a St. Augustine Assisted Living Community

Assisted living facilities in St. Augustine, Florida, offer some of the best care and amenities in the country. With the right conversations and help from assisted living staff, you can make an informed decision with confidence.

Whenever a senior experiences a significant life change, they often experience confusion, stress, and unhappiness. Moving from a home to a community for independent living can be one of those stressful experiences for seniors and their family members. 

But that stress can be minimized by following some helpful tips. It even has the potential to turn into a time of excitement and adventure with as little anxiety as possible.

Moving to St. Augustine Assisted Living or Independent Living

When a loved one transitions from living at home to St. Augustine assisted living, there is much you can do to ensure a smooth transition. Take an active role in the move as you keep in mind the following tips:

1.      Plan Ahead

A significant amount of the stress seniors can go through is due to sudden changes for which they are unprepared. Give them time to adjust to the idea of living somewhere new, and don’t try to push things along too fast. 

2.   Start Smart

Don’t start packing sentimental items first. Begin by packing up an area or room that does not hold great sentimental value, such as a bathroom. 

3.   Give Seniors Space

While helping your loved one pack, give them the time they need to work through it if they find something that stirs up emotion. Be patient, listen to their stories, and allow them time and space to adjust.

4.   Create a Layout for Their New Home with Them

Change is difficult for many seniors, especially when the entire layout of their home will be different. It helps to decrease anxiety and apprehension if you obtain (or create) a layout of their new space and sit down with them to plan where their belongings will go.

5.   Pack a Special Box the Night Before

Pack up some items your loved one will need to use during the day in a special box. They can keep this box close at hand so the items are easy to find, which will alleviate stress instead of creating more of it. These items might include medications, mementos, and medical devices.

6.   Take Photos

Often, the senior has lived in their home for a long time. There are likely to be many precious memories within the walls of their home. Take photos they can keep with them forever to help ease their apprehension about leaving.

Make the Day a Little Easier

Be ready to offer your loved one plenty of support and love when the day comes to move to assisted or independent living. With your help, the transition doesn’t have to be quite as stressful.

Social connection is a critical part of the human experience. People are naturally social beings, and a lack of social interaction can have negative health effects. Social interaction is important at every age, but it is especially important for seniors.

Read on to learn why a social connection is so important for seniors.

Encourages an Active Lifestyle

Regular social interaction and physical wellness are closely linked. When seniors engage with friends and family regularly, they tend to be more motivated to get out of the house and stay active. 

Seniors who engage in group activities like walking clubs or workout classes get the health benefits of activity and the mental benefits of social interaction simultaneously.

When seniors don’t socialize, they can easily fall into a rut, which leads to a sedentary lifestyle. Staying active is critical for both the mental and physical well-being of seniors.

Prevents Feeling of Loneliness

Even though many seniors find joy in retirement, feelings of loneliness are more common than you might think. Lonely seniors often feel isolated and can develop depression. Unfortunately, more seniors today are experiencing loneliness, and some experts even consider it an epidemic.

Feelings of loneliness, isolation, and depression can have serious negative health consequences, including:

• Headaches
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss or gain
• Sleep disturbances
• Chronic fatigue
• Body aches and pains

When these symptoms are caused by depression, they are usually resistant to medication and can be difficult to treat. 

Physical Health Benefits

Just like social isolation can have negative health side effects, the reverse is also true. Regular social connections can translate into real health benefits. Seniors who connect with friends and family regularly are more likely to engage in healthy behaviors like regular exercise and healthy eating.

In addition, studies have shown that social interaction boosts mood, increases confidence, and keeps motivation levels high.

Find Social Connection in St. Augustine Assisted Living 

Seniors who live alone are less likely to regularly experience natural social interaction. That’s why transitioning to St. Augustine assisted living can be a great option for many seniors. 

Assisted living facilities in St. Augustine, FL, offer many opportunities for social connection, including regularly scheduled social activities and friendly neighbors just around the corner. If you are concerned about social connection for you or a loved one, consider exploring the options for assisted living.

Hardcore golfers dream of being on the links whenever they possibly can. 

If you’re golfing, you’re happy. If you’re not golfing, you’re happy to think about the next time you will be. It’s even better if you can bring a friend along, and it’s perfect if you’re on a great golf course. 

Here are a few of the most highly recommended golf courses near St. Augustine.

Cimarrone Golf Club

Just under 7,000 yards, this par-72 championship-layout golf course was designed by David Postlethwait and has its own pro shop and restaurant. 

Though it is a pro course, it’s accessible and enjoyable for all levels of play, from beginner to expert. The fairways are great, with well-manicured greens and good definition. You can book your tee time online or by phone.

Dye’s Valley Course

Ranked 21st in the “Best Courses You Can Play” by Golfweek in 2017-18, Dye’s Valley at TPC Sawgrass is no stranger to elite-level tournaments. Book a tee time here, and you won’t regret it.

Julington Creek Golf Club

Just 45 minutes from St. Augustine and formerly known as Champions Club, Julington Creek features 18 holes of championship-level golf that will surprise and delight any golfer at any level. You won’t be bored here. 

Julington Creek is a club that’s actively growing, so you know it’s good, and it’s open to the public. Most folks get around all 18 holes in just over four hours.

King & Bear Golf Course

Two greats, Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus, came together to design and create this masterpiece located in World Golf Village. It’s the only course on the globe designed with input from both masters. Better yet, King & Bear is open to the public and has lots of entertainment options at its world-class restaurant when you’re done on the links. 

Golfing and Assisted Living in Saint Augustine

Golfing is a great option for staying active in independent living in St. Augustine, FL. There are many more great courses out there to explore, especially if you’re looking for courses near facilities with assisted living in Saint Augustine. 

The best thing to do is enjoy life; what better way to accomplish that than on the golf course? With a course designed by a legend (or two!), there may not be anything more pleasurable than just getting out there and hitting the links with a friend or three.