john knox village of florida Archives

JKV Recognized Among North America’s Top 25 “Best in Wellness” in Senior Living

December 9, 2024/in News

We are thrilled to share some amazing news!

For the fifth year in a row, John Knox Village of Florida has been recognized with the prestigious 2024 ICAA NuStep Beacon Award!

John Knox Village of Florida, Inc. has been honored with the prestigious 2024 ICAA (International Council of Active Aging) NuStep Beacon Award, cementing its place among North America’s Top 25 “Best in Wellness” senior living communities dedicated to fostering a culture of wellness.

The award, a joint initiative between the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA) and NuStep, LLC, highlights communities that transcend traditional care models to build a dynamic culture of wellness. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to inspiring and empowering older adults to live life with purpose, vitality, and engagement.

Colin Milner, CEO and founder of the ICAA sees this shift as a defining moment in senior living. “Wellness is no longer just an optional program—it’s a way of life,” Milner says. “Communities that embrace this ethos are improving lives and setting the stage for a new model of senior living, where wellness drives every decision.

For JKV, this award reflects years of dedication to building a wellness-focused environment where residents and team members thrive together. From creating opportunities for physical fitness to fostering emotional, social, and spiritual engagement, the community has embraced wellness as an integrated and holistic pursuit.

By placing wellness at the core of our values and operations, the Beacon Award reaffirms JKV’s commitment to enriching lives, fostering community, and shaping the future of active aging.

Want to learn more about what John Knox Village has to offer? Contact us today to take a tour, or for a no-pressure conversation with one of our Life Plan Consultants.

Much-Anticipated Westlake Eatery at John Knox Village Now Open

December 2, 2024/in News

JKV is always looking for ways to be innovative and relevant to its residents. At the top of most peoples’ lists when they are researching moving to a community like JKV is the quality of the food served.

The first floor of the recently opened Westlake at John Knox Village includes ultramodern amenities for all residents, with 147 designer-finished lakefront apartment homes above. Joining BV’s French Press Coffee and Wine Bar, Westlake Eatery officially opened on November 4, 2024.

The Westlake Eatery has already generated a sense of excitement and buzz and has quickly become a popular spot that residents are flocking to. And for good reason!

Westlake Eatery is an open-air fast-casual restaurant that serves freshly made fare all day, with stations for every taste and appetite. In addition to daily breakfast, the Eatery has a fresh Salad Station, Deli and Panini Station, Grill Station, Pizza and Flatbread Station, daily lunch and dinner entrée specials, daily desserts, and a Grab and Go section. Diners order from whichever stations they choose. Restaurant staff bring the prepared items to the residents’ tables, accommodating additional requests for anything else needed, and clear the tables when diners are through.

The Westlake Eatery is among multiple dining options at JKV, including the BV’s French Press Coffee and Wine Bar. Residents can also dine at the Glades Grill, the Palm Bistro, the Pearl, Seaglass, Bayer’s Poolside Sports Bar, and Barton’s Nautilus Bar, each offering a fresh, distinctive dining experience.

Come see for yourself what the buzz is all about. Schedule a visit by contacting us today.

John Knox Village Takes Second Place in Senior Housing News Architecture & Design Awards

November 8, 2024/in News

John Knox Village of Florida (JKV) has proudly been awarded as the Second Place winner of SHNA 2024 — Senior Housing News Architecture & Design Awards in the category of Independent Living for its new luxury apartment building, Westlake. The nomination was submitted in this fiercely competitive category by our architects, Perkins Eastman, who in collaboration with JKV, designed the community’s new construction at the heart of the campus. The award recognizes senior living communities with newly constructed apartments.

Westlake, JKV’s newest residential neighborhood includes 147 state-of-the-art apartment homes, including a rooftop area for grilling and relaxing, with a first floor featuring two dining venues, a theater, an art studio, and technology classroom where JKV’s Technology Coordinator teaches throughout the week.

John Knox Village is revolutionizing senior living by introducing an innovative hospitality and wellness model. To kickstart this transformation, the design team at Perkins Eastman collaborated with Vice President of Operations at JKV, Thom Price and the executive team in a comprehensive campus master plan. The plan highlighted the importance of spaces between existing buildings, revealing a crucial missing element: a central campus heart that aligns with the long-term vision for both residents and the community. The site was reimagined as an ‘experience district,’ with a strong lakeside pedestrian-centric path connecting social, cultural, fitness, dining, and residential spaces.

Barton’s Nautilus Bar

Westlake Art Studio

Want to learn more about what John Knox Village has to offer? Contact us today to take a tour, or for a no-pressure conversation with one of our Life Plan Consultants.

JKV Executive Leadership’s Presence On-Site Provides Calm During a Storm

October 18, 2024/in Blog

When all indicators warned South Florida would feel a significant impact from Hurricane Milton, the John Knox Village Executive Leadership team jumped into action putting the residents’ safety first. According to Chief Financial Officer Doug Folsom, “We truly embody the ‘boots on the ground’ approach. Being present on-site during critical situations like Hurricane Milton ensures that residents’ needs and safety are prioritized in real-time. Instead of managing from a distance, we address concerns and challenges as they arise.”

concerned senior woman wearing trench coat talking to leader wearing raincoat

JKV Resident Carol R. discusses storm preparation with CFO Doug Folsom

The dedication shown by the team before, during, and after natural disasters is a prime example of exceptional leadership and care. By tirelessly securing the 70-acre campus and spending the night on-site, they ensured the safety of both independent and more vulnerable residents in higher care areas.

This commitment to being physically present during such a critical time highlights their “boots on the ground” approach and reinforces trust and a strong sense of community.

Two men seated on couch shaking hands with seated leader in raincoat

JKV Residents Runar R. and Robert P. with Doug

Their efforts to quickly resume Dining, Lifestyle, and Fitness activities after the storm further demonstrate their ability to restore normalcy and provide comfort to the residents. The residents’ gratitude reflects how their proactive and hands-on leadership contributes to a secure and supportive environment at JKV.

With its five apartment buildings and three villa neighborhoods, JKV is a not-for-profit, internationally award-winning continuing care life-plan retirement community of choice for those seeking an upscale, enriched lifestyle that provides long-term medical care for its residents.

For 57 years, JKV has allowed realistic seniors to plan for their future healthcare needs while enjoying resort-style amenities, life-long learning programs, and a full range of services that promote wellness of mind, body, and spirit. Through unwavering commitment to excellence and guiding principles, the team brings the unique JKV experience to life every day for nearly 1,000 residents.

JKV residents are entitled to unlimited use of healthcare services on campus, with 24/7 Emergency Medical Technicians. JKV has three healthcare residences with assisted, skilled nursing, and supportive memory care in The Woodlands, Seaside Cove, and Gardens West. The Woodlands is Florida’s first GREEN HOUSE® Project that is the most comprehensive effort to reinvent the nursing home recognized by the Governor’s Gold Seal for “Skilled Nursing Center in Broward and Miami-Dade Counties.”

To learn more, join us for an informative lunch on Thursday, November 7th at 11 AM.

To RSVP, call 954-783-4040.

Want to learn more about what John Knox Village has to offer? Contact us today to take a tour, or for a no-pressure conversation with one of our Life Plan Consultants.

older woman with long hair taking notes sitting at a desk in front of a laptop

John Knox Village 101: Answers To Frequently Asked Questions

October 7, 2024/in Blog

Making the decision about where to spend one’s golden years is a significant one, and many in the 62-plus set are turning their attention towards life-plan continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs)—such as John Knox Village—as a promising option.

As South Florida’s premier CCRC, JKV offers a comprehensive living solution with the appealing blend of independent living, assisted living, supportive memory care and nursing care—all within 70 beautiful botanical acres in the hidden-jewel city of Pompano Beach, Florida.

Given the interest and common queries around this topic, let’s delve into some of the questions JKV’s Life Plan Consultants are asked daily.

What Is A Life-Plan Contract?

A Life-Plan Contract is an insured agreement between you and the community that entitles you to live in one of our independent living apartment or villa homes. Because residents are purchasing a life-plan insurance contract, all CCRCs in Florida are regulated by the Office of Insurance Regulation as specialty insurers, and the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) regulates the provisions of health care.

If, or when, your health situation changes, as a JKV Life-Plan resident, you are entitled to the unlimited use of Gardens West, our assisted living residence, as well as our highly rated rehab, long-term nursing, and memory support centers, The Woodlands, and Seaside Cove.

Paying the one-time Life-Plan entrance fee assures you of a lifetime of unlimited healthcare services. Choosing a CCRC means you will know where, and from whom, you will receive healthcare and that your loved ones will be spared the difficulty of making care decisions during a health crisis.

What Is JKV?

JKV is celebrating its 57th anniversary of providing a holistic approach to retirement living, focusing on health, wellness, and an enriched lifestyle. Residents have the peace of mind knowing they will enjoy a continuum of care designed to meet their changing needs as they age—spanning independent living, assisted living, supportive memory care, and skilled nursing care.

Residents enjoy a rich tapestry of amenities, including an Aquatic Complex boasting resort-style and lap pools, seven dining venues, fitness studios, cultural and recreational activities, award-winning life enrichment programming and beautifully landscaped grounds, all nestled on a picturesque 70-acre campus.

As a not-for-profit CCRC, our dedicated team of professionals delivers personalized care with compassion and respect, ensuring peace of mind for both residents and their families.

Isn’t It Better To Wait To Move To JKV?

Senior living experts agree that the best time to make a move is while you’re active and enjoying good health. At JKV you must be at least 62 to purchase a life-plan contract.

Additionally, moving to a CCRC, like JKV, also safeguards your assets from future healthcare costs should you need care. Assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory support expenses can quickly add up and create financial stress for you or your family if you’re unprepared.

Also, consider costs like home repairs, property taxes, and homeowner’s insurance. Moving to a CCRC eliminates these costs as well as the worry and expense of maintaining a home. For a detailed side-by-side comparison of expenses covered while living at JKV compared with staying in your house, talk to a member of our professional staff.

We all hope to be healthy far into our senior years, but the future is unpredictable and procrastinating a move puts you at risk of not passing the health assessment required for admission.

What Fees Do JKV Residents Pay?

As a JKV resident, you will pay a one-time Entrance Fee, along with a Monthly Service Fee (MSF). The MSF includes all maintenance on your apartment home or villa, housekeeping, a dining plan and use of all the incredible on-campus amenities.

Most importantly, you will be covered for future healthcare costs as outlined in your life-care contract.

Are There Tax Benefits To Living In A CCRC?

You may be eligible for significant IRS medical deductions on both the Entrance Fee and Monthly Service Fee. We recommend consulting a professional financial planner to help determine your eligibility for deductions. A member of our professional staff can also answer your questions and provide details.

What Types Of Residences Are Available?

We offer residences ranging from one to two-bedroom with den apartment homes, with many sizes and floorplans available. In addition, we offer villas, which are single-story attached homes with one-and two-bedroom floorplans.

Will I Need Insurance?

JKV provides insurance for the buildings and grounds. As a resident, your only insurance need would be a renter’s policy to cover personal property and liability.

Can I Decorate My Residence?

Yes! You may furnish and decorate your apartment or villa home to reflect your personal taste.

Is JKV Pet-Friendly?

Yes! Many residents have furry and feathered friends who also call JKV home. We have a dedicated Wellness Park on campus warmly referred to as the JKV Dog Park.

If you have additional questions or are interested in learning more, contact us today and a JKV Life-Plan Consultant will be happy to provide the answers you need or assist you with scheduling a visit to John Knox Village.

Welcome to CFO in the Know – Your Financial Questions About Life Plan Communities Answered

September 20, 2024/in Blog

Douglas Folsom, CFO (Chief Financial Officer), has been with John Knox Village for six years, serving as its Controller prior to being named Chief Financial Officer in 2023. He has been at the forefront of the Village’s fast but disciplined growth while keeping a close eye on JKV’s financial steadiness. He is often asked important questions regarding living at JKV, which is why we started this informative series—to help you make well-educated decisions regarding your future.

Douglas Folsom, Chief Financial Officer, JKV

Dear Doug: Is moving to a Life-Plan Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) like John Knox Village a wise investment? — Undecided in Deerfield

Dear Undecided in Deerfield,

As the CFO at John Knox Village (JKV), I would consider it a wise investment for several reasons. Firstly, it provides comprehensive care and services under one roof, offering residents stability and familiarity as their health needs change. A Life-Plan Community, like JKV, ensures access to a full continuum of healthcare options, from independent living to assisted living, skilled nursing, and supportive memory care. This guarantees that as your health evolves, you remain within the same community, surrounded by familiar faces and settings, alleviating the stress of relocating during a health crisis.

Financially, it makes sense to invest in a Life-Plan Community, like JKV. The cost of healthcare, particularly long-term care, continues to rise in the U.S., making it essential to plan proactively. By paying a Life-Plan entrance fee, you secure lifetime access to unlimited healthcare services, which can provide significant financial stability.

For example, a non-JKV resident in skilled nursing care would pay privately an average of $15,000 per month, versus a Life-Plan resident paying a current average monthly service fee of $5,000 – a significant cost savings! This is particularly important given the unpredictability of healthcare needs and costs.

Additionally, a Life-Plan Community, like JKV, offers a rewarding lifestyle, filled with rich social and cultural experiences, peace of mind, and a sense of security. Many of our residents would recommend considering a CCRC as it provides quality care and ensures that residents do not become a burden to their families or the state as they age.

By choosing John Knox Village, you are making a sound investment in your future that not only ensures access to high-quality healthcare, but also promotes an active, purposeful, and fulfilling retirement.

Voting ballet with side by side comparison of benefits of living at a life plan community versus staying at home

About John Knox Village

John Knox Village, set on a scenic 70-acre campus, is South Florida’s leading life plan or continuing care retirement community, celebrating 57 years of excellence.

JKV offers a comprehensive approach to retirement with a continuum of care including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing. Our elegant residences, vibrant community, and extensive amenities—including an Aquatic Complex, diverse dining options, fitness centers, and cultural activities—ensure comfort and promote enrichment.

Our caring team is committed to providing personalized support in a life plan community, delivering peace of mind for residents and their families.

Interested in learning more about John Knox Village? Contact us today for a no-pressure conversation with a Life Plan Consultant, or to schedule a visit.

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