By Meaghan O’Neil
Special to The Laker/Lutz News
When transitioning to an assisted living and memory care community, The Commons on Pretty Pond in Zephyrhills is the perfect community. “It is our goal to make the transition from home to our community meaningful and worry free.” Keaton Hobbs, Community Outreach Director at The Commons explains.
“The quality of life our residents enjoy is at the core of our mission. Research shows that activity, both physical and mental can improve the overall quality of life. Our goal is to create a whole person wellness attitude and change how we think and act in relation to our residents. “Aging Gracefully” is not a program but rather the embodiment of an attitude about the quality of life we provide our residents. It is the platform upon which family members and staff alike participate to present those attributes that will allow our residents to rediscover the joy available in life.” Keaton explained.
To keep residents active, The Commons offers an activity program that engages the mind, energizes the body and nurtures the spirit. Activities include: health & wellness programs, fitness & exercise classes, craft classes, puzzles, memory games, card games, social events, spiritual and cultural programming and exciting and fun outings. Other thoughtfully designed common spaces meant to be enjoyed include a beauty salon, library and billiards room. Additionally, The Commons provides transportation for shopping and doctors’ appointments.
Keaton explains that many of their residents enjoy volunteering and giving back to the community. Residents have organized fundraisers for causes such as Breast Cancer Awareness and Wounded Warriors. Other residents enjoy making jewelry to sell in The Commons’ store.
A year ago, The Commons added a Memory Care Village designed specifically for seniors with Alzheimer’s Disease and/or other memory loss not typically associated with the normal aging process. Twenty-one apartments are dedicated specifically to Memory Care, which provides our residents with separate living and dining areas, as well as an enclosed outdoor courtyard. In the Village, our associates and residents spend their days “Reflecting on past accomplishments, Rejoicing in the moment and Renewing spirits each day!” Keaton said.
All 132 apartments at The Commons on Pretty Pond are licensed for assisted living and offer various levels of care. The month-to-month rent includes 3 meals per day, weekly housekeeping, laundry services, activities and entertainment, transportation and utilities.
The Commons has a variety of floor plans, including studio, one-bedroom and two- bedroom apartments. People who want to experience The Commons, but would like to try it first, can stay in an apartment for a few days. “This allows potential residents to decide if The Commons is a good fit for them,” said Keaton.
“The staff at The Commons on Pretty Pond are dedicated to improving the lives of their residents every day,” said Keaton. “Our goal is to help make the transition into assisted living (or memory care) enjoyable with a goal of becoming healthier.”
813-779-4501 and ask for Keaton Hobbs
The Commons on Pretty Pond
38130 Pretty Pond Road
Zephyrhills, FL 3354
