Las Ventanas prepared for emergencies

Seniors want the peace of mind and security that comes with living in a full-service lifecare community, according to Suzanne Caldarello, marketing director for Las Ventanas at Summerlin.

The community, which will be built on 17 acres at the southeast corner of Town Center Drive and Charleston Boulevard, offers independent living for seniors in addition to unlimited access to assisted living and skilled nursing, if and when it is needed.

"Prior to the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, the majority of seniors inquiring about Las Ventanas and lifecare were primarily interested in lifestyle and health care issues. Now, in addition to lifestyle, many of prospective residents are asking about life safety," Caldarello said. "We're receiving more direct questions about how a lifecare community is prepared to deal with emergency situations."

Essentially self-contained during an emergency, the community will have back-up generators, which power not only the assisted living and skilled nursing centers, but portions of the entire community as well; a safe supply of food and water; on-site medical response personnel; and a formal disaster response plan.

Additionally, construction standards meet or exceed requirements for withstanding natural disasters, such as light-gauge steel and concrete construction.

"Perhaps one of the most comforting factors associated with living in a lifecare community is the fact that you are never alone," Caldarello said. "No matter what the circumstances, there is always a professional staff available to help. During an emergency, staff remains on site, day and night, to assist residents with any need that may arise."

Developers Greystone Communities and Westport Realty have communities throughout the country, including along the west coast of Florida where disaster preparedness plans have been put into effect during hurricanes.

Las Ventanas will feature apartments in seven floor plans. Amenities include all-electric kitchens, washers and dryers, 24-hour emergency call systems and security, and paid utilities (except telephone). There will be 198 independent living residences; 60 private, assisted-living suites; and 60 private rooms for skilled nursing care.

Common areas in the Tuscan-designed community will include a swimming pool, event lawn, performing arts center, dining room, several private dining rooms, a library, cyber cafe, business center and barber shop/beauty salon.

Caldarello said the community provides a form of estate preservation by offering residents the option of receiving a refund of 90 percent of their entrance deposit either directly, to their spouse or to their estate.

The community's information center is located at 10000 W. Charleston Blvd., Suite 160.

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