Category: News

Located in a quiet neighborhood atop Hackberry Hill, Arbor View Senior Living offers mountain views and easy access to Olde Town Arvada.

Arbor View Senior Living was recently featured in Patch for its beautiful Hackberry Hill setting and the way its location enhances daily life for older adults. The article highlights the community’s mountain views, peaceful neighborhood setting and close proximity to Olde Town Arvada’s shops and restaurants. Read the full article below or visit Patch’s website to learn how Arbor View Senior Living brings together comfort, convenience and Colorado scenery.

Whether enjoying the freedom of independent living or the personalized support of assisted living, residents find that Arbor View’s location in Arvada brings together the best of both worlds: serene surroundings and convenient access to everything they want and need.

Mountain Views That Inspire

From sunrise to sunset, the panoramic views at Arbor View Senior Living are a source of joy and relaxation. Residents can see Longs Peak, Pikes Peak, downtown Denver and even Denver International Airport on a clear day. All of Arbor View’s ground-floor apartments feature private walk-out patios, offering a perfect setting to take in Colorado’s natural beauty from the comfort of home.

A Neighborhood that Balances Peace and Access

Though Arbor View is tucked away in a quiet, residential neighborhood, the community is located just minutes from everyday essentials. Grocery stores, pharmacies and shops are just a short drive away and we offer scheduled transportation wherever you need to go. Nearby Arbor View Senior Living, there is a vibrant mix of local restaurants and shops that provide residents and their families with plenty of opportunities to enjoy time together.

Comfortable Living with a Local Touch

On campus, residents enjoy courtyards, garden areas and walking paths, ideal for catching up with friends, spending time outdoors or simply enjoying the fresh air. Arbor View’s friendly team ensures that every detail, from landscaping to on-site activities, reflects the pride of a local, Colorado-owned and -operated senior living community.

Life at Your Own Pace

Whether it’s a morning stroll around the grounds, a scenic drive to a nearby park, or lunch at a favorite Arvada restaurant, Arbor View Senior Living encourages residents to live life on their terms. Thoughtful amenities, an engaging activity calendar and restaurant-style dining create a vibrant senior lifestyle community where every day brings new choices.

Experience Arvada’s Best

Arbor View Senior Living was named Best of the Best by the Arvada Press two years in a row for Assisted Living, Independent Living and Retirement Community—and it’s easy to see why. Perched atop Hackberry Hill with stunning mountain views, Arbor View combines comfort, connection and convenience. With beautiful views, convenient amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a place where residents truly feel at home, surrounded by the best of Colorado living.

To learn more about Arbor View Senior Living, call 303-268-4747 or visit arborviewsl.com. Our leasing professionals can provide a free consultation, schedule a tour and answer any questions you may have.

In 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an unusual advisory focused on the epidemic of isolation and loneliness. In the report, he emphasized that social connection and community are not just “feel-good” factors, but vital for avoiding the harmful consequences of a disconnected society.

While we might assume this issue primarily affects teens and young adults, loneliness is also a growing concern for seniors. As people age, their social circles often shrink. Siblings, friends and spouses may pass, children might move away from home as they establish their careers and build their own families, or a senior might stop driving for safety reasons and end up staying home more often.

As a result, many seniors become homebound, especially during the dog days of summer when it’s uncomfortable to be outside or during winter, when ice and cold make heading outside risky – no one wants to risk a fall that could lead to injury or hospitalization.

If the pandemic taught us anything, it’s that being alone for long periods of time can be difficult. In fact, physicians say loneliness can lead to depression, while opportunities to socialize can improve mood, cognition and even physical health.

Several recent studies reinforce this point, including one from Colorado’s Anschutz Medical campus. The Anschutz study followed a group of more than 600 seniors from 2011 through 2019. The researchers observed the seniors before and after moving into a senior living community. They found marked improvement among senior living residents, who were more likely to do five things:

• Visit with family or friends
• Go out for enjoyment
• Attend religious services
• Participate in clubs or activities
• Volunteer

These five activities, along with daily interactions such as chatting with a neighbor in the hallway or sharing a meal, help reduce the loneliness that often builds when living alone.

Many senior living communities also offer opportunities to learn new skills. Whether listening to an educational talk, working on a craft, or trying a new language, these challenges not only benefit overall health but also foster social connection through shared experiences.

A recently released University of California Riverside study reinforced this insight. The researchers, while tracking seniors during the pandemic, found that seniors who engaged in new and sometimes challenging activities during COVID times – as awful as they were – gained new resilient traits. “Learning new skills is frustrating at first, especially if you haven’t done it in a while,” the study’s author said. “But if we only do what feels good in the moment, we might be giving up the ability to adapt when life throws something big at us.”

At Arbor View Senior Living, we support our residents’ interests and well-being in so many ways. From restaurant-style dining to clubs, group activities, entertainment and weekly outings, there are always opportunities to connect, learn and grow. Our wellness and fitness programs, resident volunteer opportunities and intergenerational activities create even more points of contact.

To learn more about Arbor View Senior Living’s wellness programs and activities that help keep loneliness at bay, call us at 303-268-4747 or visit us online at arborviewsl.com. Our Facebook page is also another great place to sample what life at our senior lifestyle community is all about.

The benefits of reading go far beyond entertainment. Research shows it can improve memory, sharpen focus and even help delay the symptoms of dementia. Reading also reduces stress, promotes relaxation and builds connections with fellow book lovers. That’s why Arbor View Senior Living in Arvada, Colorado, is proud to offer a resident-run library at its 13-acre campus, which helps foster learning, friendship and hobbies.

Arbor View Senior Living residents Kelly and Carol found more than just good books in the retirement community’s library—they found each other. “The books brought us together,” they shared.

Over the past year, the literary duo has curated and organized the library while also building a friendship rooted in patience, teamwork and a shared love of reading.

Together, these volunteer librarians review, select and rotate books to keep the shelves fresh and inviting. They welcome donations from residents and families, and even the community’s transportation manager, Doug, joins in by helping pick out new titles.

For Kelly and Carol, managing the library is about more than just organizing shelves; it’s about bringing people together and giving back to their community. They carefully consider a variety of genres, from romance novels to crime thrillers, to ensure there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Both Kelly and Carol agree that Arbor View Senior Living has enriched their daily lives in countless ways.

For Kelly, who moved from New Mexico, Arbor View feels like the start of a whole new chapter. “I’ve met so many new friends here,” she shared.

For Carol, who lived in the Colorado mountains, the community has lifted the worries of cooking, cleaning, and isolation—giving her more time to connect with peers while still enjoying her beloved books.

Kelly and Carol have big hopes for the future of Arbor View’s resident-run library, including adding more shelves and expanding the collection to feature magazines like National Geographic and Smithsonian.

For both women, the library is more than a room of books—it’s a place that sparks conversations, inspires curiosity and strengthens connections within the Arbor View community. It also allows them to give back to their community.

Ready to start a new chapter at Arbor View Senior Living? We’re always looking for new residents to be part of our independent and assisted living community’s story. Call 303-268-4747 or visit arborviewsl.com to learn more or schedule a tour.

There is a growing trend in senior living for older adults needing some daily assistance to live temporarily in an assisted living community. These short-term visits are often referred to as respite stays. A respite stay in senior living typically lasts from a few weeks to a month, and sometimes longer.

In a recent Tri-Lakes Tribune guest column, Elizabeth Girling, Vice President of Operations for WellAge Senior Living, explains what a respite stay is and highlights the benefits for both seniors and caregivers.

Girling notes that as part of the respite stay, an individual moves from their home residence to the assisted living community and receives a fully furnished apartment. The goal is to provide the individual with support with activities of daily living while offering all-inclusive services such as meals, housekeeping and laundry, personal care assistance, transportation and access to amenities and other supportive services available to the community’s residents.

The individual typically has access to caregiving and medical support, as well as outside services like home health, hospice and physical therapy, to assist with medications, mobility and other health-related needs. While staying at the community and receiving the essential support they need, they can also participate in daily life at the community—socializing with other residents, joining wellness programs and taking part in educational or entertainment activities.

Common reasons for a respite stay include the need for an individual recovering from an injury or surgery to be in a setting where they can receive support. Additionally, respite stays are ideal for caregivers who may need time to address their own medical issues, go on vacation or simply take a break to recharge from full-time care duties for a loved one.

Respite stays offer a flexible, supportive option for both seniors and caregivers, providing peace of mind and high-quality care on a short-term basis. During the stay, families know their loved one is in a safe, supervised environment receiving professional care, social engagement and wellness opportunities they may not experience living at home.

It’s common for a senior to join a retirement community such as Arbor View Senior Living for a temporary respite stay or as a long-term resident, and for families to comment that their loved one seems much more vibrant after the move. This is often due to balanced, nutritious meals, structured activities and the connection to others, compared to the isolation they may have felt at home.

Even if a senior is hesitant at first, a respite stay can open the door to a better understanding of what senior living is really like—and that can be a turning point for both them and their family.

If you would like to learn more about a respite stay, contact the Arbor View Senior Living sales team at 303-268-4747 or visit us online at arborviewsl.com. Our team is here to answer your questions and help you explore options that fit your needs.

Taking simple precautions to avoid overheating or becoming dehydrated is especially important for older adults. As we age, our sense of thirst diminishes and our bodies naturally hold less water. Follow these sun safety and hydration tips to help stay cool this summer.

Tip #1

The best times of the day for outdoor activities in the summer are early morning and evening. Avoid being outdoors during the hottest part of the day, usually noon until the sun sets. If you are outdoors when temperatures soar, be sure to wear sunscreen on exposed skin, a wide-brimmed hat to shade your eyes and neck and try to stay in the shade as much as possible.

Tip #2

Taking frequent breaks to replenish fluids is important for avoiding dehydration and overheating in the hottest months of the year. Don’t rely on your thirst to alert you to take a drink, try to get in the habit of doing so a few times every hour, especially when you‘re active outdoors.

Tip #3

Staying cool and hydrated does not mean drinking gallons of water. All beverages, except alcohol, count towards your daily fluid intake. Add sparkling water to your apple juice for a refreshing zing and dress up water with a slice of lemon, cucumber, or frozen berries to be more appealing and encourage regular sipping.

Tip #4

Drink up in style by putting your iced latte or sports drink in a stylish colorful water bottle. Insulated water bottles and tumblers keep beverages cool and ice cubes intact longer so you can enjoy every drop.

Tip #5

You can eat to stay cool and hydrated too. Many fruits and vegetables have a heavy water content, like celery, lettuce, cucumbers, oranges, and tomatoes. Snacking on watermelon, grapes, and kiwis is a healthy and delicious way to maintain optimum hydration levels.

Keeping Cool at Arbor View

Healthy, hydrating fruits and vegetables are always on the menu here and residents have a variety of refreshing beverages like iced tea, juice, and milk to choose from. Our numerous community indoor spaces are comfortably cooled to relax during peak hours and every apartment has an individually controlled cooling system. Residents can also stop by the snack bar anytime for healthy and hydrating treats like fruit or applesauce and a cup of iced cold water with lemon or orange slices. We are also fortunate to be surrounded by trees providing ample shaded areas to safely enjoy outdoor activities.

At Arbor View Senior Living, we’re playing it cool this summer. We invite you to stop in for a tour of our community and learn why we were voted “Best Retirement Community.” Call 303-268-4747 or visit our website and make this the summer you start enjoying a new carefree retirement lifestyle.

At Arbor View Senior Living, building a strong sense of community isn’t just something we say—it’s something we actively foster. That spirit of connection is the foundation of the Resident Ambassador Program, an initiative that pairs current residents with newcomers to help ease the transition into community life. Whether someone is downsizing, relocating to be closer to family, or needs help with daily activities, adjusting to senior living can bring a mix of emotions. Resident ambassadors are here to make that change a little easier.

The Start of Something Special

Over the past year, Arbor View Senior Living’s Sales and Marketing Director Leanne Weinheimer noticed a pattern: new residents often seemed unsure about where to go or how to get involved in the community. At the same time, longtime residents were naturally stepping in to help—offering guidance, answering questions and greeting newcomers with friendly hellos.

Seeing an opportunity, Leanne formalized this organic support by launching the Resident Ambassador Program, giving these helpful residents an official role in welcoming others.

The program matches ambassadors with new residents based on shared backgrounds, hobbies and personalities. Before move-in, each newcomer completes a life history form, which Leanne uses to make the best possible match. The result? A built-in connection and a friendly face from day one.

Support That Makes a Difference

For many ambassadors, the desire to help is personal. Several have shared that during their own move-in experience, having someone by their side would have eased their nerves. Now, they’re proud to provide that support to others.

Resident ambassadors assist by:

• Giving tours and showing newcomers around the 13-acre campus
• Explaining community guidelines, amenities and available services
• Answering questions about daily life
• Offering emotional support during what can be a major life transition
• Encouraging participation in events and activities
• Introducing new residents to neighbors and team members

The Qualities That Matter

When asked what make a good ambassador, the answers are consistent: kindness, patience, empathy, humor, knowledge and a willingness to listen.

 “It’s important to hear people’s stories—sometimes more than once,” one ambassador noted.

Leanne agrees. “Our best ambassadors are those who are already active in the community, approachable and genuinely excited to help others feel at home.”

One ambassador summed it up best, saying they volunteer their time to help others during “a time of change, challenge and confusion.” Others say the program helps them stay engaged and reflects the welcoming spirit of Arbor View.

Community in Action

Since its launch, the impact of the Resident Ambassador Program has been noticeable. New residents are settling in faster and with greater confidence, often thanks to weekly get-togethers or simply having someone to accompany them to meals and events. These small gestures have made a big difference, and the feedback from residents, families and team members has been overwhelmingly positive.

Many seniors who come to Arbor View are navigating significant life changes—whether personal, emotional or physical. The Ambassador Program helps ease that transition and fosters a sense of belonging from the very beginning.

The program continues to grow, with monthly ambassador meetings and ongoing interest from residents eager to participate. It’s one more way Arbor View continues to strengthen the bonds within its community.

Because at Arbor View Senior Living, no one walks in alone—and everyone is family.

Want to learn more about Arbor View Senior Living? Meet our resident ambassadors, take a tour and see how we can help you or a loved one feel at home. Call 303-268-4747 or visit arborviewsl.com to learn more.

As our parents age, it’s common for roles to reverse. Instead of being supported and assisted by our parents, now it’s our turn to offer support, advice, care, and even some discipline. You might check in several times a week to help with household tasks, attend doctor’s appointments, ensure they’re eating well, or confirm medications are taken as prescribed. Whether you’re stopping by in person or calling to check in, caregiving often becomes a regular part of daily life.

While caring for a parent or elderly loved one can be rewarding, it can also bring challenges, especially when balancing your own budding family or career.

Over the years, your parents’ care needs will likely intensify, and if your parent remains at home – often alone – the demands and worries only increase. Without enough support, it’s easy for family caregivers to experience caregiver burnout or fatigue. It’s real, and one of the most common reasons families begin to shop around for an assisted living community that might offer seniors more daily support, care, and socialization than they can provide.

Avoiding Caregiver Burnout

Fatigue, burnout, call it what you want, but when individuals are responsible for caregiving for their parents, older friends, or relatives, there is a strain that mounts that can also affect the caregivers’ well-being. Yes, people who care for seniors—whether they’re family members, friends, or professional caregivers—can, and often do, experience burnout. It’s a well-documented phenomenon.

This fatigue can stem from the emotional strain of watching a loved one decline, especially with conditions like dementia, or from the physical demands of helping with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and meal prep. Many caregivers handle these responsibilities alone, adding to the stress. Some reduce work hours or leave jobs altogether, creating added financial pressure.

If you know someone caring for a parent, watch for signs of burnout, including constant fatigue, mood swings and irritability, resentment, withdrawing from typical social events, trouble sleeping, or changes in appetite.

So, what can a caregiver do to refresh? Experts say it’s important to take breaks for yourself. If you have siblings who can help, encourage sharing the responsibilities so the duties are more of a team effort. Additionally, consider joining a support group or book club that tackles caregiving topics. Sometimes, it’s helpful to know others are facing similar challenges, and these peers may share information that helps them cope. It’s important to create boundaries, too. In some situations, you should encourage your parent or loved one to get professional help – you can’t do it all. Another tactic many health professionals recommend is tapping into local resources. For example, many regions have area councils on aging or senior centers; these can be a wealth of helpful information.

And finally, experts suggest some self-care. Whether it is taking time to meditate, take a walk, or visit a gym, having a daily and healthy routine that gives you a physical and mental break can help you balance the challenges of caregiving for others.

Another potential option is to suggest that your parent try a respite stay in a senior living community. These stays, often lasting a few weeks or a month, provide fully furnished apartments, care services, meals, and social engagement for your loved one, so you can take time off to enjoy a worry-free vacation or attend important events and appointments.

For more information about local resources, short-term respite stays, or how to avoid caregiver burnout, please give the team at Arbor View Senior Living a call at 303-268-4747 or visit arborviewsl.com.

Many caregivers and older adults are concerned about senior living and long-term care costs. These expenses can consume a large portion of a senior’s monthly income, even for those who believed they had saved enough. How individuals pay for senior care depends on their financial situation and the types of services they need. Seniors and their families often rely on a combination of funding sources, such as personal savings, pensions or retirement accounts, investment income, or proceeds from selling a home.

Professional care in assisted living or continuing care retirement communities is typically paid out of pocket.

Each year, our nation celebrates our veterans with numerous observances to keep their service and sacrifice top of mind. But beyond remembrance, the United States is committed to supporting veterans, especially as they age and require care. For the more than 10 million war veterans living in the U.S., and their spouses, a little-known Veterans Affairs benefit called Aid and Attendance can significantly offset the cost of home care, assisted living, or nursing home care.

With many military bases located in Colorado, it’s no surprise that veterans choose to retire in the Centennial State, and as they age, many have successfully accessed this valuable benefit at retirement communities like Arbor View Senior Living.

Aid and Attendance Benefit Details

The VA Aid and Attendance benefit is a monthly payment added to the regular VA pension for eligible veterans and surviving spouses who need help with daily activities due to disability, illness, or age.

The benefit extends to veterans of the Iraq Gulf War, the Korean and Vietnam wars, World War II, and even members of the American Merchant Marines who served during the 1940s. The benefit often extends to surviving spouses as well.

Monthly benefit amounts vary from approximately $1,500 for a surviving spouse needing care to about $2,800 for a veteran and spouse who require assistance. These funds can greatly help defray the cost of assisted living or home care, which averages more than $5,500 per month, according to SeniorLiving.org.

The supplemental funding of the Aid and Attendance benefit helps cover the cost of assistance with activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing, eating, and toileting. It can be used for care provided at home, assisted living communities, or skilled nursing facilities.

Veterans or their families can apply for Aid and Attendance by completing VA Form 21-2680, providing the required medical documentation showing a need for assistance, and submitting this to the VA Pension Management Center. Applications can be submitted online through the VA website, in person at a VA office, or with the help of a Veterans Service Officer.

Talk to our leasing agents if you or a loved one may be eligible for the Aid and Attendance benefit at Arbor View – just like several of our proud veteran residents. They can answer questions and guide you to a Veterans Service Office. To contact the Arbor View Senior Living team, call 303-268-4747 or visit arborviewsl.com.

DISCLAIMER: Arbor View Senior Living cannot determine eligibility for veterans’ benefits; only the Veterans Administration can determine applicant eligibility.