Casa de Mañana brought us a visit to what seems like ‘paradise’ just as we were heading into the hell of finals preparation following week 8. Overall, the atmosphere of Casa de Mañana was quite soothing and welcoming, exactly what I needed to escape from the stress of school. Of the senior housing options we have visited this past quarter, Casa de Mañana has the best access to resources and the best location. In fact, it’s proximity to the sea and bundle of programming makes it seem like more of a vacation home rather than a permanent residence. The guides showed us their schedule of events which seemed jam-packed with options from day-to-day. Casa de Mañana strives to provide as many options for socialization between residents as possible, following the ideology that socialization will help lengthen life spans compared to those living in isolation. As a result, their average age of residents, 81 years old, is much higher than what we have seen at other housing options. The residence is also separated into two different buildings, one for independent living and another for assisted living. Those in assisted living have an even higher average age at 91 years old.
Although Casa de Mañana is more expensive than the affordable housing options, the services provided are all encompassing and worth the costs. The establishment includes rent, meals, and access to all programs within the monthly cost of residence payments. Some examples of the programs we saw while we were there include exercise classes, arts programs, and trips to different places. Another highlight of the center was how active the residents were in being involved with and leading some of the programs. For example, one of the residents brought together a bunch of residents for a womens’ march while some of the artists of the resident offer their works of art to be displayed. The staff also seemed to know the residents well as they recognized most of the people we encountered. The establishment overall felt very human-centered with rose bushes named after each resident.
At the end of the tour, we were able to have the opportunity to sit-down and talk with some of the residents. It was very nice to hear each of their experiences. The woman we spoke to, Phyllis, talked about her family and also engaged us to speak about ourselves. It was an enjoyable experience that allowed us to connect personally.
Although Casa de Mañana is more expensive than the affordable housing options, the services provided are all encompassing and worth the costs. The establishment includes rent, meals, and access to all programs within the monthly cost of residence payments. Some examples of the programs we saw while we were there include exercise classes, arts programs, and trips to different places. Another highlight of the center was how active the residents were in being involved with and leading some of the programs. For example, one of the residents brought together a bunch of residents for a womens’ march while some of the artists of the resident offer their works of art to be displayed. The staff also seemed to know the residents well as they recognized most of the people we encountered. The establishment overall felt very human-centered with rose bushes named after each resident.
At the end of the tour, we were able to have the opportunity to sit-down and talk with some of the residents. It was very nice to hear each of their experiences. The woman we spoke to, Phyllis, talked about her family and also engaged us to speak about ourselves. It was an enjoyable experience that allowed us to connect personally.