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Where to Begin | 5 Easy Steps

Searching for a senior living community is a task that goes beyond exploring floor plans and lists of amenities.

Your choice, whether for yourself or a loved one, will become the backdrop for everyday life. Financial considerations, when to begin planning, the changing levels of care you or your loved one may need in the future—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But finding a place where you can thrive doesn’t need to be stressful. For seniors in Bloomington, MN, and the surrounding areas, we’ve outlined five simple steps to navigate this journey with confidence.

1.) Get to Know Your Senior Living Options

One of the most essential factors that will impact your senior living experience is the care available in your chosen setting.

While some may choose to age in place at their current home for the comfort of familiarity, this can often come with increasing responsibilities and unexpected costs. Other options, such as continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), can offer a range of care services adaptable to your changing needs. Whether you’re searching for an independent living setting that supports a maintenance-free lifestyle or know that your loved one would benefit from medical support, exploring these options early allows you to make an informed and confident choice about your future.

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A residential setting that supports an active, engaging lifestyle for older adults, often offering amenities, dining, and social opportunities.

A licensed medical facility providing 24/7 skilled nursing care for individuals with complex health needs.

Care and assistance provided in a private residence, ranging from companionship to medical support.

A senior housing option for active, self-sufficient older adults looking for a maintenance-free lifestyle with social opportunities.

A supportive living arrangement for those who need help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and medication management.

A senior living community that offers multiple levels of care—including independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing—on one campus, so you can transition seamlessly should your needs change.

Age-restricted apartment-style housing designed for older adults who want a downsized, low-maintenance living space without additional services.

When Is the Right Time for Senior Living?

Deciding when to move to a senior living community near you is a deeply personal choice, and the right time looks different for everyone. Some people plan ahead to enjoy an active independent senior living lifestyle, while others wait until they need senior care options like assisted living or in-home support. Whatever your situation, the key is to make a decision that allows you to live fully and confidently.

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2.) Consider Your Needs: Senior Living Levels of Care & Support

Senior living is not one-size-fits-all—it’s about finding the right level of care to match your lifestyle, independence, and future needs.

Some communities offer just one type of support, while others provide multiple senior care options on a single campus. Still weighing your options? Dive deeper into our resources for guidance, or explore our diverse care options at Friendship Village of Bloomington detailed below.

Independent Living

This is your time to enjoy each day without the distractions of upkeep or the limits of routine. Independent living is centered on starting every day with a sense of possibility—whether that’s a morning fitness class, a leisurely breakfast with friends, or an afternoon spent exploring new interests. With elegant dining venues, inviting social spaces, and wellness programs tailored to your goals, everything is designed to support the way you want to live.

Independent Living is ideal for those who:

  • Enjoy a vibrant, social lifestyle without the worries of home maintenance.
  • Appreciate exceptional dining, engaging activities, and access to wellness programs.
  • Prefer a secure community with future care options available if needed.
Assisted Living

For those who need a little extra support, assisted living provides personalized assistance with daily activities while maintaining independence. Residents receive compassionate care in a comfortable setting, with access to enriching programs and tailored wellness services.

Assisted Living is ideal for those who:

  • Need help with daily tasks like dressing, bathing, or medication management.
  • Want the benefits of independent living with added support.
  • Prefer a community where care adapts to changing needs.
Memory Care

Memory care programs offer specialized support in a secure, nurturing setting designed for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. With personalized care, structured activities, and a compassionate team, residents can experience comfort, dignity, and meaningful engagement.

Memory Care is ideal for those who:

  • Have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.
  • Need a secure environment with structured routines.
  • Benefit from specialized cognitive therapies and personalized support.
Rehabilitation

Some senior living communities may offer on-site rehabilitation services, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy, to help residents regain strength and independence after an illness, injury, or surgery. 

Rehabilitation is ideal for those who:

  • Are recovering from surgery, illness, or injury.
  • Need physical, occupational, or speech therapy.
  • Want short-term care with a focus on regaining independence.
Skilled Nursing

For those needing around-the-clock medical care, skilled nursing services provide expert, compassionate support in a comfortable setting. With a focus on personalized attention, residents receive high-quality medical care while enjoying a warm, welcoming environment.

Skilled Nursing is ideal for those who:

  • Require 24/7 medical supervision from licensed professionals.
  • Are managing a chronic illness or complex health condition.
  • Need long-term or short-term medical support.

3.) Understand Your Investment: The Cost of Senior Living

A smart plan for senior living in Bloomington, MN, includes assessing costs and weighing the value of each potential option. Whether you're looking for independent senior living, assisted living, or a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), early planning allows you to make the best choice for your lifestyle and budget.

How much senior living costs can vary based on the level of care and the type of residence you choose. Independent living offers a maintenance-free lifestyle with utilities, dining, and amenities included, while assisted living and memory care provides personalized support, and skilled nursing covers 24/7 medical care. Many families are surprised to learn that the all-inclusive nature of a senior living community can often be more cost effective than maintaining a private home.

To get personalized pricing details and explore what’s covered, we invite you to connect with our team. We’re here to answer your questions, help you compare costs, and walk you through available options. Contact us today to learn more about how Friendship Village of Bloomington can fit your needs and budget.

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4.) Explore Your Ideal Community: Amenities, Services, Peers

Retirement isn’t about settling—it’s about stepping into a lifestyle that reflects your standards, passions, and ambitions. So, what does the ideal day look like for you?

True luxury should embody effortless living: concierge-style services that anticipate your needs, resort-quality amenities that make every day exceptional, and a community of like-minded individuals who inspire and uplift. True luxury is knowing that you have access to exceptional wellness programs, gourmet dining experiences, and enriching activities that bring joy to every moment.

Set Up a Tour & Get to Know the Community

The best way to truly experience senior living in Bloomington, MN, is to see it for yourself. A personal tour gives you the opportunity to explore the community, meet residents, and ask the questions that matter most. Schedule a tour today and check out our guide on 5 Key Questions to Ask When Touring a Retirement Community to help you make the most of your visit.

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Explore Resident Experiences and Testimonials

Hearing from those who already call your prospective community home is one of the most authentic ways to understand what life here is really like. Residents share stories of newfound friendships, fulfilling experiences, and the peace of mind that comes with having everything they need in one place. 

Life at Friendship Village of Bloomington

Discover an enriched lifestyle where every detail is designed to support wellness, connection, and enjoyment.

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Community and Peers

Build meaningful friendships and be part of a warm, welcoming community that shares your interests and values.

Health and Wellness

Stay active and engaged with state-of-the-art fitness programs, personalized wellness services, and lifelong learning opportunities.

Dining Experiences

Savor chef-inspired meals in a variety of elegant dining venues, offering fresh, flavorful, and beautifully crafted cuisine.

Floor Plans

Find the perfect space to suit your lifestyle, from modern apartments to spacious residences with premium finishes.

Amenities

Enjoy resort-style living with upscale amenities designed to support your passions, encourage your wellness, and enhance your day-to-day experiences.

5.) Find Supportive Expertise

Navigating your senior living options is easier with expert guidance.

Our team at Friendship Village of Bloomington is here to answer your questions, walk you through available senior care options, and help you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle. Connect with us today to get personalized support and take the next step toward a vibrant future.

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