Issue link: https://www.newlifestylesdigital.com/i/1080729
32 Flexible Design for an Unpredictable Future: The Vista at CC Young Is a Game-Changer for Dallas-Area Senior Living Flexibility is the name of the game for any 21st century business. Rapid advances in technology, evolving consumer desires, changing demographics and more all make the future an unpredictable place—but also provide opportunity for businesses that are nimble enough to adapt quickly in the face of change. Case in point: Senior living has seen tremendous changes over the past 30 years with the rise in person-centered care in Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) and a strong focus on senior lifestyle and hospitality. With the graying of the Baby Boomers, we can expect more changes as the country's largest demographic shifts its attention from the workforce to the golf course. In recent years, numerous media outlets have reported that Boomers are retiring at a rate of 10,000 people per day, changing both the nature of today's workforce and tomorrow's retirement communities. "The reality of today's senior living marketplace is a move away from long-term care," explained Chris Zinkand, Vice President of Administration for CC Young Senior Living, a premier CCRC in Dallas. "Seniors are finding ways to live in their homes longer, with outside services coming in, so there's less demand for what people traditionally considered a nursing home." While the demand for long-term care and skilled nursing has decreased, the demand for assisted living is on the rise. Zinkand anticipates the demand for memory support to rise in the near future as well. A New Design for a New Century What this shift in demographics and consumer demand means for CC Young is that the organization has had to re- balance what it offers—and the organization must remain flexible going forward. CC Young has done just that with The Vista, a 325,000 square foot addition to the campus expected to open in early 2019. This nine-story building will replace three of the community's existing, antiquated buildings with 219 state-of-the-art patient rooms and assisted living apartments. The Vista is built in accordance with the strictest construction guidelines required for skilled nursing in Texas. "We can offer the highest level of care on floors four to eight, or we can convert those floors to assisted living or memory support as senior needs change," Zinkand said. "This flexibility is a significant transformation in our ability to respond to evolving market conditions and expectations, and we believe we've got a building that will meet the needs of Dallas seniors for the next 50 years." This modern space features stunning views of the idyllic green spaces of CC Young's 20-acre campus, as well as East Dallas and White Rock Lake. Floor-to-ceiling windows let in an abundance of natural light and create a warm, welcoming ambience. Open-air sunrooms and sun-soaked dining areas round out The Vista's bright and airy feel. Catering to Lifestyle The key word in senior living today is "lifestyle." Seniors move into retirement communities today because of the wealth of amenities and social engagement found in today's CCRCs. The multiple levels of care and ability to age in place are added bonuses to the full calendar of exciting activities and events you can find in an independent or assisted living community. At CC Young, for instance, The Vista was designed to be a bustling hub of activity, and will transform and enhance the community's commitment to person-centered care. Highlights include an 8,500 square foot rehabilitation and aquatics center which will offer fitness classes, lap swimming, and rehabilitative water therapy. An outdoor sensory garden comes complete with fountains, a pergola and an outdoor fireplace for connecting with new friends. Other amenities at The Vista include a spa, a multi-purpose room or grand hall, multiple dining venues (including a bistro), a gift shop, a meditation chapel, an art gallery, and indoor sensory gardens. "Of course, excellent dining is one of the most important amenities a senior living community can offer," Zinkand said. "Two full kitchens enhance our dining experience throughout the building. Options will include three healthy meals a day plus an 'always available' menu which is cooked to order." For more information on The Vista or to schedule a tour, call 214-380-0285 or visit www.ccyoung.org/expansion-projects