Category: News

Practical Tips and Resources for a Smooth Transition to a Maintenance-Free Senior Living Community

Arbor View Senior Living was recently featured in a Patch article sharing simple, effective tips for downsizing in retirement. From early planning to making your new space feel like home, the article highlights how Arbor View helps make the move to senior living easier and less overwhelming. Read the full article below or on Patch’s website.

Downsizing is about more than just moving to a smaller space—it’s a chance to simplify your life, focus on what truly matters, and embrace a new chapter. At Arbor View Senior Living, we know that transitioning to a 55+ independent living community can be both exciting and overwhelming, especially when it involves years of family memories and cherished belongings. To ensure a well-planned, coordinated move, check out this list of best practices and download our new consumer guide: Downsizing and Preparing for a Move to Senior Living.

Start Early and Plan Ahead

One of the most important steps in downsizing and preparing for a move to senior living is to give yourself plenty of time. Start planning months, if not years, in advance. Take inventory of your home and create a timeline with key milestones, such as sorting through each room, deciding what to keep, and scheduling donation pickups or estate sales; be mindful when shopping for new household items. Breaking the process into smaller, more manageable tasks can help reduce stress and keep you on track.

Declutter Strategically

Decluttering is at the heart of downsizing. Begin by sorting your belongings into four categories: keep, donate, sell, and discard. Focus on one room or category at a time, such as clothes, kitchen items, or books. Ask yourself whether each item serves a purpose or holds sentimental value. Contact the leasing expert at your new community and request a floor plan of your residence to help determine what pieces will fit in your new space. For items that are hard to part with, consider taking photos to preserve the memories without keeping the physical object.

Enlist Help

Downsizing doesn’t have to be a solo endeavor. Involve family or close friends who can offer support and help with decision-making. Professional organizers and senior move managers can also provide expertise. Ask your leasing agent for recommendations on local businesses specializing in senior moves or visit the National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM) website for resources in your area. NASMM members are experts in helping older adults and families with organizing, downsizing and relocating. Their services often include house cleaning, estate sales or auctions, realtor selector, and preparing your home for prospective buyers.

Making Your New Space Feel Like Home

After moving, personalize your new space with meaningful items like family photos, artwork, or a favorite chair. Create a cozy and welcoming environment that reflects your personality. Adjusting to a smaller space takes time, but familiar touches will make it feel like home.

Focus on the Benefits

While saying goodbye to a home can be emotional, keep your sights on the benefits of your new living environment. Maintenance-free communities, like Arbor View Senior Living, offer a host of advantages that simplify daily life. Say farewell to the hassles of mowing the lawn, shoveling snow, or repairing leaky roofs. Instead, enjoy peace of mind with services like housekeeping and on-site maintenance, giving you more time to focus on the activities you love.

Embrace Life Enrichment Opportunities

At Arbor View Senior Living, we provide more than just a place to live—we offer a vibrant lifestyle rich with opportunities for personal growth, social engagement, and wellness. Residents enjoy chef-prepared meals, engaging activities, and the freedom to live life to the fullest without the burden of home maintenance.

Celebrate the Journey

Downsizing is a significant life change, but it’s also an opportunity for growth and renewal. Moving to a smaller, more manageable space can lead to a fulfilling, stress-free retirement. With thoughtful planning and support, this transition can bring greater peace of mind, enrichment, and joy.

To make the transition even easier, Arbor View Senior Living created a FREE Downsizing Guide! It’s packed with expert advice, practical tips, and a printable checklist to help you stay organized and reduce stress. Download your copy today!

To learn more about Arbor View Senior Living, call 303-268-4747 or visit arborviewsl.com. Our leasing professionals are happy to provide a free consultation, schedule a tour, and talk about decisions that come with coordinating a move.

When Joe moved to Arbor View Senior Living in January 2024, he was looking for more than just a new home—he was seeking community, support and stability.

After 21 years in his Gunbarrel condominium, a neighbor’s flooding disaster forced Joe to act quickly. Coupled with his declining health and the challenges of living with Parkinson’s disease, he urgently needed a new living arrangement and knew it was time for a change.

Though the move came sooner than expected, Joe had already been considering senior living. He toured several communities, including Arbor View in Arvada, and even returned for a Fall Festival, where the warm welcome left an impression. A thoughtful Christmas card from a team member further reinforced the genuine care he felt there. So, when the time came to find a new home, Arbor View was his first call.

“It’s the best value compared to other communities,” Joe said. “The staff is phenomenal—helpful, friendly, and top-notch.”

Joe first moved into a studio, but within a week, a one-bedroom residence became available, allowing for a smooth transition. His private, ground-level apartment with a walk-out patio was comfortable, but it was the warm, friendly community that quickly made him feel at home.

Originally from Pella, Iowa—famous for the iconic Pella windows on display throughout Arbor View—Joe spent his youth embracing a free-spirited rock-n-roll lifestyle. From performing in high school theater to playing in cover bands to working as a painter and woodworker, Joe’s life was one of adventure and creativity. He earned his associate’s degree in television and radio production from Pikes Peak Community College, along with his bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Colorado. Joe retired from a successful career in television in 2017, but his passion for storytelling and creativity has remained a defining part of his life.

Today, Joe is very involved at Arbor View, an unofficial ambassador who embodies the spirit of a vibrant retirement community. He maintains close friendships with neighbors Jan, Joyce, Dale, and Tredena, who share his enthusiasm for bringing residents together through fun and spontaneous activities. The friends gather for meals in the dining room and brainstorm new ways to keep residents engaged, ensuring that everyone feels included.

Whether it’s organizing quirky events like placing Peggy Sue, the Halloween skeleton, in unusual spots, hiding the Elf on the Shelf, or putting on the Groundhog Day skit, Joe and Jan’s theater backgrounds are the driving force behind many of the resident-led activities at Arbor View. Joe credits Jan as the energy behind it, saying he’s simply there to lend a hand.

With support from the Life Enrichment Team, Joe and Jan’s collaboration culminated in last summer’s “Woodstock” anniversary celebration, a playful nod to the iconic music festival. Though Joe wasn’t on stage performing, his behind-the-scenes contributions—like making Kool-Aid, baking brownies (“not the fun kind,” he joked), and screening the original film—highlight the kind of inclusive, joyful atmosphere that senior living communities like Arbor View foster.

In that spirit, Arbor View recently introduced a Resident Ambassador Program designed to help new residents feel welcomed into the community. The initiative pairs new residents with volunteer ambassadors who will guide them through the transition process and beyond. The goal is to make settling in smoother and more enjoyable, ensuring new residents feel at home and connected.

Despite his initial reservations about senior living, Joe quickly realized that community life offers much more than a place to live—it provides built-in friendships, camaraderie and support. At Arbor View, Joe truly feels at home, and he’s even considering making his role as resident ambassador official.

Ready to see if Arbor View Senior Living is the perfect ‘role’ for your future? Come backstage, meet stars like Joe, and discover how we “stage” activities to fit your script. Call 303-268-4747 or visit arborviewsl.com to schedule your personalized tour today—your next act awaits!

Evaluate your current lifestyle with these five key questions to determine if senior living is the right choice for you or a loved one.

Arbor View Senior Living explores five key questions to help seniors decide if it’s time to simplify their lives with a move to senior living. From maintenance-free living to engaging activities and chef-prepared meals, discover how communities support an active and carefree retirement. Read the full article below or visit Patch’s website to learn more about how Arbor View Senior Living fosters meaningful connections for its residents.

Downsizing and moving to senior living can be a significant and emotional decision for older adults. Whether you’re seeking a more supportive environment or simply looking for a change, answering these five questions can help you evaluate your lifestyle needs.

1. Is home maintenance becoming a hassle?

Keeping up with a home can become more difficult over time. From lawn care to snow removal, handling repairs and maintenance may start to feel overwhelming. If you’d rather spend your time focusing on what brings you joy, senior living communities, like Arbor View, provide a simple solution, taking care of all the upkeep so you don’t have to.

2. Are you cooking and eating nutritious meals?

Eating well is essential for good health, but shopping, meal planning, and cooking can become time-consuming or even tiring. Arbor View Senior Living can make it easier by providing chef-prepared, nutritious meals daily.

3. Are you participating in activities and socializing as much as you’d like?

Staying connected with others and maintaining an active lifestyle is key to emotional and physical well-being. If it’s becoming harder to find opportunities for socializing or pursuing hobbies, Arbor View Senior Living offers activities and events designed to keep you engaged and connected.

4. Are you still comfortable driving?

For many, driving becomes more challenging as we age, but it doesn’t mean losing your independence. Arbor View Senior Living community offers transportation for appointments, outings, and errands, giving you peace of mind while eliminating the worry of driving.

5. Is your family concerned about you being alone?

Living alone can sometimes lead to concerns about safety, both for you and your family. Senior living communities offer a supportive environment with enhanced security, providing a sense of reassurance with on-hand assistance in case of emergencies.

At Arbor View Senior Living, we provide a maintenance-free lifestyle that lets seniors enjoy the retirement they’ve always envisioned. Our restaurant-style dining offers three chef-prepared meals daily, and we host regular happy hours and social events with festive drinks and treats.

The community offers a robust activities calendar and scheduled transportation for outings and medical appointments so residents never need to worry about driving—or shoveling their car after a Colorado snowstorm.

Even while staying close to home, Arbor View residents lead a carefree lifestyle—whether it’s cheering for their favorite sports teams in the theater, planting vegetables in the community garden, or staying active physically and spiritually.

Conveniently situated in a quiet residential neighborhood, Arbor View is designed to help active adults enjoy a vibrant, independent lifestyle with access to supportive services and care when needed. The 13-acre campus is equipped with safety features throughout the property and in individual apartments, providing peace of mind for residents and their families.

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

Since February is both Valentine’s Day and American Heart Month, it’s the perfect time to share a timeless love story from one of our senior residents.

Residents in senior living communities often share stories of their past—snapshots of lives filled with joy, accomplishments, grief, and resilience. One such story is Donalie’s, a heartfelt tale of young love, loss, and the power of reconnection.

Donalie met Corky during their school days, where his kindness and quick smile captured her heart. Their connection was immediate, making them inseparable. But as adulthood unfolded, life took them in different directions, and they lost touch.

Donalie went on to find new love, marrying and building a beautiful life with her first husband. Together, they shared a fulfilling marriage and raised a family, with her children becoming her greatest pride.

Her career was equally rewarding. Moving to Los Angeles, Donalie worked as a television producer, including a role with the legendary Dick Clark. Her work introduced her to the fast-paced world of entertainment, filled with hectic production schedules and encounters with some of the biggest names in show business.

After decades of marriage, Donalie’s husband passed away, leaving her with treasured memories but also an undeniable void. Little did she know the universe had something remarkable in store.

Following a simple Facebook message, Donalie reconnected with Corky—more than 50 years after their last conversation. Despite living on opposite sides of the country, they arranged to meet in San Antonio, Texas. Their reunion was extraordinary. Walking through the Alamo’s historic grounds, they shared stories of their lives apart and realized their bond had only deepened with time. What began as a teenage romance evolved into a love story for the ages.

Donalie and Corky were 73 when they got married and moved in together, cherishing the years spent rekindling their young love until Corky’s passing. Afterward, Donalie relocated to Arvada, Colorado, to be closer to her adult daughter. She now lives in a studio apartment at Arbor View Senior Living, where she enjoys the friendly team members and various community activities.

Donalie’s story is an inspiring reminder that life’s unexpected twists, turns and challenges can lead to new beginnings and beautiful destinations. It is also a heartwarming testament to resilience, hope, and the power of love to transcend time and distance.

Arbor View’s award-winning community is ideal for singles and couples with studio and one-bedroom apartments, private walk-out patios, supportive services, and exceptional amenities. Call 303-268-4747 or visit arborviewsl.com to schedule your personalized tour today.

Finding Peace and Joy During the Festive Season

Arbor View Senior Living was recently featured in Patch for its approach to creating a memorable holiday season for residents. Read the full article below or visit Patch’s website to see how the community makes the holidays brighter for everyone.

As the holidays approach, it’s easy to feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. While some eagerly anticipate the season of togetherness, others find themselves overwhelmed by its demands. For many older adults, holiday traditions that once brought joy may now feel daunting due to changes in energy levels, mobility, or even life circumstances.

Why Holidays Feel Different as We Age

Holidays bring cherished traditions, yet aging can shift how we experience this season. At Arbor View Senior Living in Arvada, Colo., we recognize how physical changes, the loss of loved ones, or being far from family can make old traditions harder to maintain. Yet, the holidays can still be filled with joy, especially when celebrated in a way that matches your current needs and lifestyle.

Making the Holidays Work for You

Living in a retirement community like Arbor View Senior Living provides opportunities to embrace the holidays on your terms. Here are some ways seniors can make the most of the season:

1. Embrace a Simplified Lifestyle Senior living communities offer a stress-free holiday experience, allowing residents to focus on enjoying activities they love. With social events, festive entertainment, and the comfort of a well-maintained space, seniors can relax and celebrate without the burden of household chores or timely holiday preparations.
2. Connect Through Events and Activities Most retirement communities offer a full calendar of life-enrichment activities—from holiday crafting and storytelling to festive meals—making it easy for seniors to create lasting memories without leaving home.
3. Prioritize Your Well-Being Seniors living in a community can prioritize their well-being during the busy holiday season by taking advantage of peaceful communal spaces designed for relaxation and self-care. Whether it’s sitting around the fire with a cup of cocoa, watching a favorite Christmas movie in the theater, or enjoying tranquil outdoor areas, these spaces offer the perfect opportunity to recharge and unwind.
4. Create New Traditions Start fresh by joining community celebrations, like holiday-themed game nights or communal dining experiences. These activities foster connections and a sense of belonging helping to reduce isolation and loneliness this time of year.

How Families Can Help Make the Season Bright

Families play an essential role in holiday joy. At Arbor View Senior Living, we encourage inclusive, multi-generational celebrations that everyone can enjoy. Share the workload by hosting events on our 13-acre campus, where our amenities and services can make gatherings easier and more comfortable for your senior loved ones. For special events, we offer the option to reserve one of our private dining rooms.

Finding the Magic in the Season

At Arbor View Senior Living, we believe the holidays are about connection, not perfection. Whether you love or dread the season, there’s always room to create meaningful moments on your terms.

This festive season, let go of unrealistic expectations and focus on what truly brings you joy—whether it’s quiet reflection, time with loved ones, or the simple pleasures of the season.

If you’re looking for a supportive community to share in the celebrations, Arbor View is here to help make your holidays brighter. Together, we can make this time of year something to cherish.

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

Dave H. recently celebrated his first year in a studio apartment at Arbor View Senior Living, calling it a “10 out of 10” experience. “I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else,” he says, praising the warm community and dedicated team members. “The staff here are incredible—welcoming, loving, and caring. And the food? I’ve never had a bad meal!”

Life in the Studios: A True Community

One of the things Dave enjoys most about Arbor View is the welcoming atmosphere and strong sense of community. “It’s a literal community where you get to know new people and expand your horizons,” Dave explains. “We’re all one big happy family.”

Dave also values the caring environment, where he feels a true sense of belonging while maintaining his own private space. The studios are warm and inviting, and Dave thrives in this ideal retirement setting.

Sundays in the Theatre Room: Broncos Game Day

To see Dave light up, just mention football. As a die-hard Broncos fan, Sundays are sacred. Every week, he heads to the Theatre Room to watch the Broncos on the big screen from oversized recliners. “There’s nothing like kicking back in the theatre and watching the game with other fans,” he says.

Staying Active and Engaged

Beyond football, Dave stays physically active by hitting the gym—especially the stair stepper—and walking around Arbor View’s beautifully landscaped 13-acre campus situated atop Hackberry Hill. “The grounds are stunning, and I like that we are in a real neighborhood and not some facility,” he says.

“There’s something for everyone at Arbor View,” Dave adds, highlighting the variety of amenities and services for both men and women. From the fitness room and wellness center to social and cultural programs, the community offers a range of life-enrichment activities that cater to diverse interests. Whether staying active, enjoying a meal with friends, or relaxing by the double-sided fireplace, Arbor View has something for everyone.

A Classy Place to Call Home

Arbor View’s attention to detail hasn’t gone unnoticed by Dave. He describes the community as “classy,” from the tasteful furnishings to the impressive artwork. “The entire environment here feels elevated and special,” he explains, noting how the elegance of the surroundings adds to his enjoyment of living there.

Why Independent Living at Arbor View?

When asked what advice he’d give to someone considering a move to Independent Living, Dave says, “If you’re thinking about moving in, I’d say go for it.” “It’s a wonderful place with an amazing community and so much to offer. You won’t find anything like it anywhere else.”

In a recent review, Dave expressed gratitude for Arbor View’s leadership team, particularly the community’s Executive Director. “She has helped me out in so many ways … so I can stay here for the long-term,” he writes. “I salute her for all her caring for everyone here at Arbor View.”

For Dave, Arbor View Senior Living is more than just a place to live—it’s home, and people are family.

Ready to see if Arbor View is a “10 out of 10” for you or your loved one’s future? Come by, visit, meet residents like Dave, and learn more about our independent and assisted living community. Call 303-268-4747 or visit arborviewsl.com to schedule your personalized tour today.

Modern technologies help keep older adults connected to far-away family members and are transforming how senior living residents communicate.

Arbor View Senior Living was recently featured in a Patch article highlighting how seniors use technology to stay connected. Today’s seniors are using technology to stay closer to loved ones, bridging distances with video calls, social media, and more. Arbor View Senior Living provides tools, training and support to help residents embrace these connections while enjoying the comfort of traditional communication methods. Read the full article below or visit Patch’s website to learn more about how older adults can maintain stronger connections with their far-away family members.

Older generations may be slower to adopt new technology, but today’s seniors seek both physical and digital interactions to stay connected with family and friends, health care providers, and their community. User-friendly apps, devices, and platforms have significantly enhanced social interaction among seniors, helping to combat isolation and foster a sense of belonging—essential for emotional well-being.

In today’s digital age, there are lots of ways for older adults to bridge the distance to stay in touch with family members effectively.

• Video Calling Platforms: Apps like Skype, Zoom, and FaceTime have changed the game for long-distance communication. These platforms allow seniors to see their loved ones in real time, enhancing the feeling of connection and reducing isolation.
• Social Media: Platforms like Facebook are valuable tools for seniors to stay updated with family events, photos, and messages. They provide an easy way to stay connected with busy family members and younger relatives who are more accustomed to social media. Many seniors find joy in seeing grandchildren’s activities and connecting with relatives they might not see often.
• Email: Email remains a popular choice for seniors, allowing them to write longer messages, share photos, and maintain ongoing conversations at their own pace.
• Traditional Methods: Sending letters or cards through postal mail can be a heartfelt way to stay in touch. Many seniors enjoy selecting cards or stationery and writing personal messages by hand. Often, retirement communities feature residents’ artwork on greeting cards that are available at the concierge desk or in the general store.
• Phone Calls: Scheduling regular calls can provide a comforting routine and an opportunity for meaningful conversations. Hearing a familiar voice can be incredibly reassuring and uplifting.
• Technology Assistance Programs: Many senior centers, libraries, and retirement communities offer technology assistance programs where older adults can receive guidance on using smartphones, computers, or tablets for communication purposes.

At Arbor View Senior Living, we prioritize helping families stay connected with their loved ones, whether across the country or just across town. We have interactive technologies in place that make it easy for residents to stay connected and engaged while promoting safe, virtual interaction. With high-speed internet throughout the campus, residents can utilize wearable technology such as smartwatches, activity trackers, and medical monitoring devices like our emergency alert pendants.

We also utilize LifeLoop, a digital community portal accessible from most laptops, smartphones, and computers. Residents can send and receive messages from family, share photos, register for community events, and even make maintenance requests or schedule transportation. And while technology may be hard to navigate for some, we offer tech-friendly classes and events to ensure those who want to use their devices are set up for success in the community.

Ultimately, the key is finding the method or combination of methods that best suits the individual senior’s preferences and abilities. By staying proactive and exploring these various options, older adults can maintain stronger connections with their far-away family members, fostering happiness and a sense of belonging despite the distance.

Arbor View Senior Living is committed to partnering with industry leaders and investing in innovative solutions that keep seniors connected, safe and engaged. To learn more, 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.

Since Father’s Day is in June it seems timely to highlight a dad who lives here.

A New Jersey native, Jim moved into a studio apartment at Arbor View Senior Living in December of 2023. He came from another senior community in Arvada, and before that, he had lived in Wheatridge for almost 60 years. He questioned whether living in a studio apartment would have enough space, but says it’s been wonderful. His view is great, and he spends time in other areas within the community and goes outside the community to visit places he enjoys.

Jim feels fortunate to be close to his two adult daughters who live in the area, and he often spends time with them. One of his daughters helped him to find his new home at Arbor View.

Jim has been curious and active all his life. He’s had two careers and lots of hobbies and interests. He was a high school English teacher and later became a realtor. He enjoys gardening, playing pool, and getting out to visit places like the Botanic Gardens. He’s an avid reader and he’s studying Spanish these days. A unique passion he discovered in his 30s was sewing.

After his mom gave him a sewing machine, he realized he loved to sew. His first project? A pair of Bermuda shorts with pockets, zipper, and a lining. He was hooked. During his real estate career, he wore a shirt he’d made to a closing, and it was a hit. From that day forward he had the nickname, “Shirts.”

He’s made clothes for his entire family, one year making pajama bottoms for everyone. He’s sewn the same dress pattern with different fabrics for all his granddaughters, and he made one of his daughters a reversible jacket. He’s even helped others to sew their own tee shirts.

Talking with Jim on the phone, you’d never guess he was 88. And one of the first things Jim tells you is how lucky he’s been in life. It may be true, but it’s also been said that “Luck is quite predictable. If you want more luck, take more chances. Be more active. Show up more often.” (author, Brian Tracy). It’s fair to say that Jim has followed that pattern to the tee.

This Father’s Day, Jim will enjoy two outings, one with each daughter. We wish him, and all the dads out there, a very happy Father’s Day.

Ready to see if Arbor View is a good “fit” for you or your loved one’s future? Come by, visit, meet residents like Jim, and learn more about our tailored approach to senior living. Call 303-268-4747 or visit arborviewsl.com to schedule your personalized tour today.