Frequently Asked Questions
We want to make sure you receive the most from your retirement, and we especially want you to make an informed choice. At Chapel Oaks, we encourage questions, so not only can you choose the retirement option that’s right for you, but you can also feel confident in your decision. Here is a comprehensive list of the most commonly asked questions, conveniently arranged by categories, and their answers to get you started.
GENERAL
What is Chapel Oaks?
Chapel Oaks, owned and operated by St. Ann’s Community, is a private, not-for-profit Independent Living Community dedicated to providing an ideal retirement lifestyle. It combines active, independent living with access to comprehensive services, including priority access to assisted living and memory care services at Cherry Ridge, and skilled nursing, and rehabilitation at St. Ann’s Home. Ensuring peace of mind for the future. St. Ann’s Community, the area’s leading provider of senior health care and housing, upholds a mission to support the independence, well-being, and spiritual health of older adults, rooted in the Catholic tradition of excellence in care.
What is Independent Living?
Independent Living is a lifestyle option for seniors who prefer an active and self-sufficient environment with access to amenities, social activities, and support services as needed. It provides a maintenance-free setting, allowing residents to enjoy their interests without the responsibilities of home upkeep.
How is Chapel Oaks different from other retirement communities?
- Connected to St. Ann’s Community: As part of St. Ann’s Community, Chapel Oaks offers residents priority access to St. Ann’s extensive services, including rehabilitation, assisted living, and skilled nursing, ensuring a continuum of care when needed.
- Convenient Access to Amenities: With a broad range of amenities conveniently located on-site, residents enjoy easy access to everything they need to support their lifestyle without having to go elsewhere.
- Customizable Service Packages: Chapel Oaks offers tailored service packages designed to meet residents’ unique needs, including housekeeping, meal services, and more, making day-to-day life simpler and more enjoyable.
COMMUNITY OVERVIEW
Where is Chapel Oaks located?
Chapel Oaks is located in Irondequoit at 1550 Portland Ave, directly across from Rochester General Hospital. Set back behind St. Ann’s Home, it offers a peaceful and private setting while remaining close to essential services and amenities.
What is Chapel Oaks like?
Chapel Oaks offers a vibrant, all-inclusive community with 120 one- and two-bedroom apartments designed for convenience and comfort. Residents can enjoy dinner in The Newport Dining Room, casual lunches and happy hour at Marie’s Bar and Bistro, and access to a gym, heated indoor pool, on-site nail and hair salon, and a cozy library, game room—all in one convenient location.
What services are available?
Independent Living at Chapel Oaks offers a comprehensive array of services to its residents including activities programs, utilities (except phone, internet and cable), complimentary continental breakfast, emergency call service, exterior and interior maintenance, personal patio or balcony, health care checks and screenings, in-unit laundry, scheduled transportation, wellness promotion and exercise programs. Plus, housekeeping and meal plans are also available.
What are the apartments like?
Chapel Oaks has one- and two-bedroom floor plans available. Each residence includes a fully equipped kitchen, individually controlled heating and air-conditioning, washer/dryer, storage, 24-hour security, and high-speed Internet and cable access.
How does Chapel Oaks promote health & wellness?
Chapel Oaks provides a full calendar of wellness programs organized by their Wellness Coordinator, featuring classes from Aqua Fit to yoga. Residents also enjoy access to an on-site gym and a heated indoor pool, supporting a well-rounded, active lifestyle.
Is the community safe and secure?
Yes, as a resident of Chapel Oaks, you enjoy 24-hour security. Additionally, each residence is equipped with a personal response system for added protection and long-lasting comfort.
FINANCIALS
How does Chapel Oaks compare to the costs of staying in your own home?
That’s a difficult question to answer as individual home costs and expenses vary. What people should remember is that with a community like Chapel Oaks, you’re really getting more than a home — you’re getting the opportunity to maintain an active, independent lifestyle, similar to what you presently enjoy, without the burden of home maintenance, the worry over increasing property tax assessments or future concerns about obtaining quality, affordable health care should the need arise. So when you consider Chapel Oaks is an inclusive lifestyle that provides you a beautiful maintenance-free residence, limitless health services by the leading senior care provider in the area, you’ll see it’s an affordable alternative to staying in your own home. We encourage you to use our Cost-of-Living Worksheet to see how your current expenses would compare to moving to Chapel Oaks
NOT-FOR-PROFIT
What’s the benefit of Chapel Oaks being not-for-profit?
As a not-for-profit, all profits made are reinvested directly back into the community so as to stay true to St. Ann’s Community’s mission and vision. Additionally, Chapel Oaks receives a variety of financial benefits including tax-exempt status, and lower advertising and operational costs which add up to greater savings and tax benefits for residents. Research has also indicated not-for-profit communities provide more hours of patient care per day and invest more resources into health services.
MAKING THE MOVE
How do I know this is for me at this time in my life?
Aren’t you ready to enhance your current lifestyle, while gaining valuable peace of mind? It’s always better to come to a place like Chapel Oaks while you’re able to enjoy all it has to offer, and while you can make the decision on your own terms. It’s too easy to wait until a change in health makes the decision for you (and limits your options!). Only you can answer the question of whether Chapel Oaks is right for you right now, but the fact that you’re in the position to ask that question is a wonderful thing, and coming in for a tour can help you answer it once and for all.
Will I still feel independent and in control?
At Chapel Oaks, independence and freedom is what we’re all about. With a maintenance-free residence and wide range of services and amenities, you’ll have plenty of time to savor life’s many pleasures. Our prompt, friendly staff will be available around-the-clock to help you with whatever you may need, or to take care of your residence while you’re away. With more free time and surrounded by friendly neighbors, you’ll be enjoying more of what life has to offer — your main problem will be how to fit all the exciting opportunities into your schedule!
Will I get bored? What will there be to do?
Chapel Oaks will be anything but boring! Our beautiful landscape is ideal for various outdoor activities, including walking paths and putting green, and we have a fully equipped fitness center providing you the indoor opportunity to stay physically active. Choose from a complete calendar of activities such as concerts, trips, parties, guest speakers, spiritual opportunities, volunteerism and much more. You’ll have every opportunity to enjoy the vibrant lifestyle and wonderful friendships to be made at Chapel Oaks, if you so choose.
How does Chapel Oaks help with planning my move? How will I make sure all my things fit?
Moving to a retirement community may seem overwhelming at first, but many residents find a tremendous sense of relief after settling in to Chapel Oaks. Chapel Oaks apartments are spacious, providing room for your most cherished belongings, and your living space extends beyond your walls to include a variety of common areas and amenities available year-round. Our dedicated marketing representatives are here to assist you from start to finish, offering floor plans with exact measurements, helping you visualize your new home, and connecting you with trusted moving companies and managers to make all arrangements. We’re committed to making your move to Chapel Oaks a smooth and enjoyable experience—just let us know what you need, and we’ll be here to help every step of the way.
What if my family and other advisers think I should continue to live in my current home?
Many of us are uncomfortable with change, preferring to maintain the status quo than explore something new. Family members and advisers may not fully understand the benefits and value of moving to Chapel Oaks. We, at Chapel Oaks, are always happy to speak directly with family members and others whose opinions you respect. Once they understand how wonderful life can be in our community, they’re likely to encourage you to make the decision that’s right for you.
SENIOR INFORMATION
When should seniors start thinking about their retirement future?
It’s never too early to begin planning for your retirement. The earlier you start, the more time and energy you have to explore all the options available to you. Our marketing representatives at Chapel Oaks can help you best determine the retirement and lifestyle choices available to fit your unique situation and desires.
How are retirement communities changing?
Retirement communities are changing because seniors are changing. The senior population is larger and more diverse than ever before — and seniors are demanding living choices that meet their ever-changing needs and desires. Today’s retirement communities aren’t where people go to “sit and rest,” they are vibrant, active communities that support the independent lifestyles of their residents while providing access to quality health care services if ever needed. To learn more about what St. Ann’s Community and Chapel Oaks is doing to stay up to date visit our News Section.