1. Facility Overview
Grand Living At Lakewood Ranch, located at 7230 University Pkwy, Sarasota, Florida, 34240, is a premier senior living community that offers a range of care options and luxury amenities. This comprehensive review will delve into the services, amenities, resident experiences, and unique features that set Grand Living apart in the Sarasota senior living market.
2. Services and Care Options
Grand Living At Lakewood Ranch provides a continuum of care to meet the diverse needs of seniors:
2.1 Core Services
| Service Type | Description | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Independent Living | For active seniors seeking a maintenance-free lifestyle | – Full access to community amenities – Focus on social engagement |
| Assisted Living | Personalized support for daily activities | – 24/7 professional care – Customized care plans – Medication management |
| Memory Care (LUMINATIONS®) | Specialized program for residents with cognitive impairments | – Secure environment – Dedicated staff – Structured daily routines |
2.2 Specialized Care Services
- Health Care Services: On-site physician visits and comprehensive medical support
- Wellness Programs: Tailored fitness and health initiatives
- Rehabilitation Services: While not explicitly mentioned, the facility likely offers access to physical, occupational, and speech therapy services either on-site or through partnerships
3. Amenities and Living Experience
Grand Living At Lakewood Ranch boasts resort-style amenities that enhance the quality of life for residents:
3.1 Dining Options
- Multiple dining venues with restaurant-style service
- Chef-prepared gourmet meals with daily menu changes
- Special dietary accommodations available
- IN GRAND TASTE® culinary program ensuring sophisticated dining experiences
3.2 Wellness and Recreation
| Facility | Features | Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Spa & Fitness Center | – State-of-the-art equipment – Professional supervision | – Yoga classes – Strength training – Wellness workshops |
| Community Spaces | – Theater – Library – Social lounges | – Movie screenings – Book clubs – Social gatherings |
| Outdoor Areas | – Courtyards – Fire pits – Walking paths | – Gardening clubs – Outdoor social events |
3.3 Additional Amenities
- Full-service beauty salon and barber shop
- Scheduled transportation services
- Pet-friendly environment with grooming center and pet park
4. Daily Activities and Social Engagement
Grand Living At Lakewood Ranch offers a rich calendar of activities through its FACETS® program:
- Cultural events and live performances
- Arts and crafts workshops
- Educational seminars and lectures
- Social gatherings and holiday celebrations
- Fitness classes tailored for seniors
- Community outings and local excursions
5. Resident Experiences and Testimonials
Feedback from current residents and their families highlights the positive living experience at Grand Living:
“WOW! Grand Living LWR is really terrific. I have been living here since it opened and it only gets better. The staff is very friendly. I think they must have to pass a friendliness test to get hired.” – Denis Lowry, Resident
“If you are looking for the top place in the city for your parent or parents, you owe it to them and yourselves to come check out Grand Living.” – Greg V., Family Member
These testimonials consistently praise:
- The friendly and professional staff
- High-quality dining experiences
- Diverse and engaging activities
- Overall improvement in quality of life
6. Management and Staff Quality
The leadership team at Grand Living At Lakewood Ranch brings extensive experience in senior living:
| Position | Name | Experience | Specialization |
|---|---|---|---|
| Executive Director | Michelle Orlando | 22+ years | Senior living industry expertise |
| Director of Sales | Tyler Smith | Gerontology graduate | Customer service focus |
| Health & Wellness Director | Jazmine Albritton | Nursing background | Specialized in Hematology Oncology |
| Executive Chef | Tim Pheasant | 21+ years | Senior living culinary services |
| Memory Care Director | Joey Blair | 27 years | Therapeutic recreation |
This experienced team contributes to the high standard of care and service at the facility.
7. Pricing and Market Comparison
7.1 Cost Structure
- Starting price: $4,715 per month
- Total units: 165
- Accommodation types: Studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units available
7.2 Market Comparison
| Facility | Starting Price | Key Differentiators |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Living at Lakewood Ranch | $4,715/month | Full-service resort amenities, comprehensive care options |
| The Fountains at Lakewood Ranch | $4,500/month | Similar services, slightly lower price point |
| Brookdale Sarasota Central | $4,200/month | Lower starting price, fewer luxury amenities |
| Aston Gardens at Pelican Pointe | $4,600/month | Focus on independent living, limited care options |
While Grand Living’s starting price is slightly higher than some competitors, the comprehensive amenities, care options, and positive resident experiences may justify the cost for many families.
8. Unique Features and Community Reputation
Grand Living At Lakewood Ranch distinguishes itself through:
- FIRST CLASS HAPPINESS® philosophy: Emphasizing personalized care and a resort-like living experience
- LUMINATIONS® Memory Care: Specialized program for residents with cognitive impairments
- Comprehensive Wellness Approach: Integrating physical, social, and mental well-being initiatives
- Culinary Excellence: IN GRAND TASTE® program offering sophisticated dining experiences
- Experienced Leadership: A management team with extensive senior living industry expertise
While specific awards or recognitions for the Lakewood Ranch location were not found, the overall Grand Living brand is known for its commitment to excellence in senior living.
9. Recommendations for Prospective Residents and Families
- Schedule an In-Person Tour:
- Contact Grand Living At Lakewood Ranch at 941.554.7230 to arrange a visit.
- Observe staff-resident interactions and the overall atmosphere during your tour.
- Participate in a Trial Stay:
- Inquire about short-term stay options to experience daily life at the community.
- Use this opportunity to sample meals, participate in activities, and interact with current residents.
- Review Activity Calendars:
- Request recent monthly activity schedules to ensure alignment with personal interests.
- Pay attention to the variety and frequency of offerings in different care levels.
- Discuss Care Plan Options:
- Schedule a meeting with the Health & Wellness Director to review personalized care plan options.
- Inquire about the process for adjusting care plans as needs change over time.
- Explore Financial Planning:
- Request a detailed breakdown of costs, including base rates and additional service fees.
- Discuss potential future cost increases and how they are determined and communicated.
- Evaluate Dining Options:
- Arrange to have a meal at the community during your visit.
- Discuss dietary restrictions or preferences with the culinary team to ensure accommodation.
- Assess Staff Qualifications:
- Inquire about staff-to-resident ratios in different care levels.
- Ask about ongoing training programs for staff to maintain and improve their skills.
- Review Transportation Services:
- Get details on scheduled transportation services, including frequency and destinations.
- Inquire about any additional costs associated with transportation.
By thoroughly evaluating these aspects, you’ll be well-equipped to make an informed decision about whether Grand Living At Lakewood Ranch aligns with your or your loved one’s needs for senior living. The community’s comprehensive care options, luxury amenities, and positive resident feedback make it a strong contender in the Sarasota senior living market.
