The journey toward finding senior housing for older family members often takes a few detours before arriving at the right destination. Narrowing down the city might be the first hurdle; determining support needs and finding a community that serves them with compassion is another.
You’ll also want to consider on-site amenities, socialization opportunities, and caregiver training. But with so many options available, what’s the best approach? Sometimes, you might be wasting valuable time researching an option that turns out to be quite different from what you need.
Oklahoma has its fair share of communities within a short radius of each other. For instance, The Village in Oklahoma City is about 10 minutes south of The Gardens at Quail Springs, and each offers a different lifestyle. If you or a loved one are considering retirement in The Village, it might be a good choice. However, before making your decision, it’s essential to understand what it offers compared to assisted living and memory care communities like ours.
What is The Village?
The city of The Village, OK, is part of the Oklahoma City metropolitan area. That’s right; it’s actually a city with a population of over 9,300. It’s between OKC and Nichols Hills, with its own schools, police and fire departments, and landmarks like Country Stores’ headquarters.
The Village also has a mayor and an elected council. It operates independently from OKC, handling its utilities, public works, and other services. This city was established as an independent community within Oklahoma City. It has a charming atmosphere, friendly neighbors, and a slower pace of life, which can translate into fewer stressors for seniors.
You’ll also find parks, restaurants, and coffee shops in The Village. Retirement in this area can be more appealing than living in a large city. There’s plenty for older adults to enjoy here and nearby, but The Village might not have the senior-friendly environment you need.
Things to Do in the City of The Village, OK
Retiring in The Village, OK, means a low-key lifestyle for the most part. There are several parks and shopping centers within its city limits:
- North Park Mall
- Village Park North
- Village Park South
- Casady Square Shopping Center
- French Market Mall
The Village also features amenities like walking paths, picnic areas, and gardens that promote outdoor wellness; its city hall has a community center.
Outside of The Village, retirees and families enjoy these activities:
- Lake Hefner: A reservoir with trails for walking, running, bicycling, and skateboarding. Lake Hefner is known for stunning sunsets, the East Wharf restaurant, and Lake Hefner Golf Course.
- Science Museum Oklahoma: A hands-on museum with interactive exhibits and a planetarium, perfect for families and science enthusiasts.
- Oklahoma City Museum of Art: Features an extensive collection of American and European art, including Chihuly glass sculptures and special exhibitions.
- Cinemark Tinseltown Oklahoma City and XD: This modern theater shows the latest films in various formats, including XD, for enhanced viewing experiences.
- Oklahoma City Zoo: A large zoo with diverse animal exhibits and a focus on conservation and education, great for visitors of all ages.
- Myriad Botanical Gardens: This 17-acre park has beautiful gardens and a conservatory, plus events and classes.
- Ranch Steakhouse: Locals love this popular restaurant known for high-quality steaks and a warm atmosphere, ideal for special occasions.
- Frankie’s Italian Restaurant: An inviting eatery serving classic Italian dishes like pasta and pizza, favored for its delicious food.
Still can’t decide between The Village and OKC senior communities? Let’s dig a bit deeper.
The Village vs. Oklahoma City, OK: Pros and Cons
Choosing between The Village and Oklahoma City senior living communities like The Gardens at Quail Springs requires careful consideration of the pros and cons.
Pros of Retiring in The Village, OK:
- Community Feel: The small, hometown vibe encourages relationships among residents and active community engagement.
- Lower Density: Less congestion can mean better mobility for seniors.
- Local Services: There are shopping and parks within the city’s limits.
Cons of Retiring in The Village, OK:
- Limited Amenities: The Village has local conveniences, but it may not offer the extensive amenities found in Oklahoma City senior communities.
- Transportation: Public transit options may be limited, making it essential for families to ensure transportation arrangements.
- Fewer Senior-Friendly Activities: Compared to The Gardens at Quail Springs, there may be fewer activities and events geared toward older adults.
While The Village has its advantages, Oklahoma City senior communities offer more extensive services, amenities, and activities. They also have on-site caregiving, which is an essential difference. When retirees’ needs evolve, they might need to hire housekeepers, maintenance services, and caregivers.
Making the Right Decision
Deciding between The Village and The Gardens at Quail Springs depends on a senior’s preferences and support needs. Suppose they cherish a sense of community and want a tight-knit community environment. In that case, The Village in Oklahoma City might be the ideal—as long as they don’t need 24/7 assisted living or memory care services.
About The Gardens at Quail Springs
The Gardens at Quail Springs emphasizes quality of life, tailored care, and a supportive environment in a home-like setting. Seniors live amongst their peers, with services and amenities tailored to their lifestyles; families have peace of mind knowing that experienced caregivers provide 24/7 support. Our residents enjoy what OKC offers and return to comfortable, accessible, private apartments and on-site features, like:
- Beautifully landscaped grounds and walking paths
- Indoor gardens
- Restaurant-style dining with three delicious meals daily planned by a registered dietitian
- Family social events and support groups
- Senior-friendly exercise program
- Fireside living room
- Library
- Housekeeping and home maintenance
- Medication management
- Personalized assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs)
Whether you’re considering The Village in Oklahoma City or The Gardens at Quail Springs, assess your loved one’s support needs, interests, and health status. It’s critical to choose what’s best for them. Doing so will enrich their quality of life and ensure they feel supported and valued during their retirement years.
Come Home to The Gardens at Quail Springs
The Gardens at Quail Springs offers some of the same benefits as retirement in The Village, but our secure, supportive environment for seniors can be a better solution for your loved one. Your loved one’s comfort, security, and well-being will always be our top priorities. Contact us to learn more about The Gardens at Quail Springs and secure a spot in our welcoming community.
