Spring Tour: Tudor Oaks

It's really not your grandma's retirement home, because grandma never talked about working out in the fitness center or raved about her last water exercise class.

However, Tudor Oaks is responding to the needs of seniors, and these days that means more activity for a more active demographic.

Marketing Director Judy Radish provided a tour of the facility, which takes about an hour if you move at a brisk pace.  Recent renovations have included about 100,000 square feet of space while reducing the number of apartments from 193 to 133, meaning larger spaces for entertaining.

In addition, the project reorganized facilities to be centered around a Community Square.  Think of it as the hub of a wheel, with the various apartment homes as the spokes emanating out from the center. Radish said that the design is built for socialization.

With a swimming pool and whirlpool, fitness center, gym and theatre, there is plenty to occupy residents' time.  Classes are currently open to residents only, but Radish said they hope to offer more to the public in the months to come.

Apartments were built in existing wings, but as Radish explained, "we basically left the exterior walls and gutted the rest and started from scratch."  

The floor plans do provide more room to entertain guests and family, and for residents who have lots of family, there are also options to reserve larger areas for parties.  "Many of the people who are looking to move are about 65 to 70, and they still want to remain active and that includes entertaining."

The bottom line for Tudor Oaks is community, and according to Radish, it means responding to the needs current residents as well as what may appeal to potential ones.

"There's always a reason why someone is looking to move here, whether it's socialization or convenience, and we pay attention to what they're looking for.  We have activities to suit every interest, and if there is a need we can meet, we offer it."

Radish said there is nothing she dislikes about her job, and is especially thrilled when she sees and hears residents sharing their life stories.

"They've been around their families, who already know their story, and they move in here, and there are literally hundreds of people with whom they can share it, which really provides a spark for them.  It gives a whole new reason for living."