Lantern Hill's Predictable Costs Provide Freedom, Value, and Peace of Mind

When Jean Keh and her husband Marshall Cohen were looking at retirement communities close to their house in Manhattan, N.Y., Lantern Hill, an Erickson Senior Living community in New Providence, N.J., stood out.

"I was impressed. It looked like a nice place to live," recalls Jean.

The couple was sold on Lantern Hill's pricing structure, which makes it easy for residents to manage their finances--now and in the future.

Thanks to predictable monthly expenses and financial peace of mind, knowing their future is secure, Jean and Marshall are able to focus on making the most of their retirement years.

Worry-free living

Residents really appreciate the monthly service package, which bundles the costs of utilities; a meal plan at on-site restaurants; maintenance, including repair and replacement of appliances; access to amenities; and regularly scheduled transportation into one predictable bill.

The package supports the more than 90% of seniors who say they want predictable monthly expenses to cover most of their daily activities, meals, and housing--according to a recent survey commissioned by Erickson Senior Living via Edge Research.

"With the monthly service package, everything is included," says Jean.

In fact, Jean recalls that during the first few weeks after moving in, Marshall would instinctively look for the bill at the end of every meal they ate at one of Lantern Hill's restaurants--before remembering that their meals are included.

"There is nothing to worry about, which makes it so relaxing living here," she adds. "They tell us, ‘If you happen to break it, we fix it.' Every service you need is available, and we are treated so lovingly by the staff."

Predictable expenses

Finance Director Joe Pisano notes that at the beginning of each year, Lantern Hill sets a budget for the year.

"This determines the monthly service package and tells residents exactly what they will pay for the next 12 months, so that they can set their budget and forget about it," he explains. "Even if their electricity usage increases, for example, their monthly cost remains the same, and no unplanned expenses at the community are passed onto the residents."

Last year, Lantern Hill unveiled a new financial option with a lower monthly service package and a 80% refundable entrance fee*. The entrance fee, collected as part of the residency process, will go back to you or your beneficiaries, if or when you leave the community.

"The lower monthly service package has been very popular, both with existing residents and with newcomers," Pisano says.

More than just a home

With a range of stylish floor plans to fit every taste and budget, unique restaurants serving made-to-order meals, and top-notch amenities, choosing a home in a vibrant Erickson Senior Living community like Lantern Hill is money well spent.

"It's really about choosing a lifestyle that fits your goals for retirement," says Pisano. "There are myriad activities and great socialization opportunities through trips, events, and entertainment. You can be as busy or relaxed as you want."

Jean agrees, saying, "You never get bored living here. Many of the events and activities are created by the residents. One of the wonderful residents here, Taka Ishii, created a line dancing group, and I love it! It's so much fun. The residents also put on shows at the theater, and everyone is so talented."

Pisano adds that Lantern Hill continuously reinvests in amenities and services to not only enhance residents' quality of life but also ensure the vitality of the entire community well into the future.

"We spend over $2 million a year to maintain a high level in terms of appearance and equipment. We want the community to be modern and updated, so that it can remain a vibrant community for current and incoming residents."

Peace of mind

Most of all, residents appreciate the peace of mind thanks to the Home for Life promise.*

No one ever expects to run out of money, but sometimes unforeseen issues arise that can quickly deplete your hard-earned savings and put you at risk. Oak Crest is prepared to assist eligible residents who outlive their resources. No one will be asked to leave our community because of a genuine inability to pay.

For Jean and Marshall--and their kids--that was a real draw.

"Our kids don't have to worry about how we are doing or if we are being looked after. Everyone is supportive here, like family. I am so grateful to be here," she says.

To learn more about the many financial benefits of moving to Lantern Hill, request more information today.

*As per the Residence and Care Agreement.

Written by Gregory J. Alexander