Frequently asked questions
The following questions relate to our general practices. Please contact representatives at our individual communities for specific information.
No, all of our communities are non-sectarian, and no religious affiliation is necessary. The religious or spiritual beliefs of residents are a personal matter.
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Not-for-profit providers offer a commitment to quality that stems from a mission of service and a history of compassion — a century of commitment, in the case of Presbyterian Homes. We believe in people before profits.
We employ a values-driven team who manages our organization to achieve the Presbyterian Homes mission. Quality is the barometer for their work, not earnings. Our organization grew out of Chicago religious groups, and our managers continue to be part of the local fabric of our communities. They are not driven by a desire to increase stock prices for shareholders. All proceeds are reinvested in improving facilities and fulfilling our mission.
In addition, our organization is accountable to a board of directors, whose members volunteer their time and talent to assure quality services and management. They work to assure that Presbyterian Homes’ employees are receiving competitive wages and benefits for the hard work they do.
Presbyterian Homes’ communities have been part of the North Shore and the northwest suburbs for decades and offer the stability that will give you peace of mind.
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At all Presbyterian Homes communities, a part of the Residence Agreement for contractual residents of independent living is a guarantee of continued residency. It says that if you outlive your assets (through no fault of your own), Presbyterian Homes will not ask you to leave the community. Please talk to a Presbyterian Homes retirement counselor for specific information about the campus you are considering.
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Absolutely not. Each resident maintains control of his or her assets. We now offer many independent-living entrance fee options, including refundable entrance fees, starting as low as $72,000. Plans vary by location, so ask a Presbyterian Homes retirement counselor for specific information about the campus you are considering.
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No. In fact, last year over 700 people from surrounding towns recuperated from surgery or illness in one of our Health Care Centers located in Evanston, Lake Forest and Arlington Heights. Our rehabilitative services on each campus, including physical and occupational therapy and speech/language pathology, are highly regarded by physicians and patients alike.
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Continuing care refers to the fact that in addition to independent living, all levels of care are available to residents on the same campus. This would include assisted living, nursing care and specialized memory care. In addition, all levels of care can be accessed directly by those living outside the retirement community.
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In addition to assisted living and nursing care, Presbyterian Homes offers Adult Day Services, Rehabilitation Services, Home Health and Lifeline emergency response service.
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Not always. Many of our communities do maintain a Future Resident List. But, since the lists are residence-specific, some residences may become available within a few months while others may not be available quite as soon. The key to our Future Resident Lists is to join early, and use the time to plan a successful move.
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Our communities offer flexible meal plans. Three meals each day are available, and typically residents can choose which meals they want to include in their monthly fees. Plans vary from no included meals to 20 or more meals included each month. However, each community has decided on the best program for the residents on their campus. People who travel are provided with credit if their monthly fee includes meals.
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It’s surprisingly affordable. Each community has its own selection of residences with corresponding prices. Residences range in size from 500 square feet to over 4,000 square feet.
Each community offers a refundable or non-refundable entrance fee, combined with an ongoing monthly service fee. More specific information about each campus is part of the Guide to Costs and Benefits for each of our communities, found here.
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Some Presbyterian Homes retirement communities offer a rental option for select apartments. In addition, those who move directly into assisted living or nursing care can rent from year to year, and do not pay an entrance fee.
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Upon leaving the community, and once your residence has been resold, you may be entitled to a refund. In addition, should you exhaust your benefit of non-chargeable nursing days, you may use your refund to pay for any additional nursing care needed. Please talk to a Presbyterian Homes retirement counselor for specific information about the campus you are considering.
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The “equity” in your residence is limited by your potential refund. Presbyterian Homes retains official title, so if you move to assisted living or healthcare, it is a convenient and seamless process.
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Independent living is designed for those who can live safely without any assistance or supervision. The services provided are primarily for convenience and lifestyle benefits.
Assisted living is designed for individuals who need regular support but do not need a nurse on a daily basis. Assistance can be provided with activities such as meals, laundry, bathing, dressing and medication reminders.
Nursing care provides the necessary care for those who need a nurse or certified nursing assistant on a daily basis. Individuals might have chronic conditions that require a skilled caregiver in our nursing care center.
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A number of couples living at Presbyterian Homes do not share the same good health. On an individual basis, we can create a program which may include one spouse in assisted living or nursing care, and the other in a nearby independent apartment or cottage.
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