Senior citizens now have a new unique independent living option in Sandy.
Cedarwood at Sandy, which offers both independent and assisted living facilities, recently celebrated the opening of its senior cottage home neighborhood. Offering residents both independence and community, the cottage neighborhood is the first of its kind in Utah.
“What a beautiful day!” Wade Vest, director of operations at Kisco Senior Living, declared at the Oct. 2 ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the completion of the 29 cottage units. Cedarwood at Sandy has been owned and operated by Kisco for nearly 10 years.
Before an assembled audience of Cedarwood at Sandy residents, staff and members of the community, Vest thanked Sandy City for their support of the project. “We really appreciate the neighbors for their patience,” he added, alluding to the months of construction.
In addition to thanking Cedarwood at Sandy’s staff members and residents, Vest emphasized the impetus behind the construction of the independent living cottages. The idea is to give residents “the choice to do what you want to do,” he said.
Darlene Duffin, who was the second person to move into one of the cottages, explained why she prefers living in a cottage as opposed to an apartment. “I had a big home in Sandy,” she said. “In the cottage, I don’t feel closed in. It’s bright, light and beautiful. It’s just a wonderful feeling. I didn’t have to compromise leaving my beautiful home.”
“Kisco has quite a few cottage communities like this across the country,” said Tony Dressen, executive director of Cedarwood at Sandy, adding that there are somewhat similar living options for seniors in Alpine and St. George, but none on this scale.
The cottages, which offer single-story living, range in size from a little over 1,500 to 1,700 square feet and most include a two-car garage. “They are already a big hit,” he added. “They include all the amenities.”
Cottage residents may cook in their own kitchens but have the option to enjoy two to three meals a day at one of three on-site restaurants. Biweekly housekeeping is available. “There are also lots of activities,” Dressen said. “It’s lots of fun, really.”
“You could be busy all day,” Susan Savage agreed. Savage was the first person to put down a deposit on one of the cottages, even before they were constructed. She was drawn to the sunny location and the friendliness of the Cedarwood at Sandy staff. “I love the independence of the cottage; it feels like a home,” she said. “It has everything you need, just smaller.”
Among the many activities to choose from, Savage mentioned the exercise and meditation programs and Friday night movies. “They have everything. People get to do whatever,” she said.
Duffin also has her favorite activities. “I love the scenic drives,” she said. “We took a bus trip to Albion Basin and went up the canyon to see all the fall colors.” She also mentioned taking the bus to the water aerobics classes offered at Dimple Dell Recreation Center. “We also have a choir which just met for the first time,” Duffin said. “We’ll be singing at Christmas.”
Both Savage and Duffin expressed that the best part of living at Cedarwood at Sandy was the community and staff members. “They have the best people. They are so accommodating and kind,” Savage said. “It’s beautiful.”
“I love it here,” Duffin said. “Everyone is helpful and friendly. We have a lot of fun.”
For more information about the cottages and other living options at Cedarwood at Sandy, visit www.kiscoseniorliving.com/senior-living/ut/sandy/cedarwood-at-sandy.