Dive Into Pools with Powerful Appeal
Like so many aspects of senior living, pools have evolved. No longer are these just for lounging or swimming. Increasingly, the design and features of a pool and the surroundings are carefully thought out and planned or can result in an expensive unused, and high-maintenance amenity that does little. Before making an investment in a pool, communities need to determine how residents want to use the amenity and what features or accessories will be needed. Water is undoubtedly an attractive asset in any community, however, only a small percentage of residents use the pool itself actively. They instead opt to lounge around the amenity, with a beverage, socialize, and enjoy the ambiance of the outside setting. Some communities have multiple pools for various purposes. For instance, they may have an outdoor resort-style pool for socializing and dining spaces, indoor pools for sports and exercise classes, swim spas, heated pools for physical therapy, and even lazy river-style pools.
Zero Entry: 100 Percent Popular
Zero-entry pools, where the end of the pool is flush with the pavement and ramps down slowly, have been gaining in popularity. These are uniquely attractive and create a beach-type feel. At the same time, the slope makes it easier for residents with limited mobility to safely use the pool, and it provides a shallow area for those who what to enjoy the water without really getting in the pool. These can be excellent alternatives to unsightly and rarely used lifts that are difficult to operate, often require staff assistance, and can be embarrassing for residents.
While zero entry pools are attractive and can be utilitarian. It is important to weigh the benefits with the challenges. For one, this type of pool may be more expensive to build as a longer ramp means a bigger pool, and with that comes more cost and more real estate. It is also important to get a contractor who has expertise in building zero-entry pools, and such experts may be hard to find, and their specialized knowledge may come at a premium.
Resort Pools: Fun in the Sun!
You may want to consider a resort-style pool with zero entry and space for sports as well as socializing. The pool also can flow into a lazy river, with a couple of jets and intake locations designed to create a slight current and propel people with floatation devices along the water. The idea of floating along a “river,” listening to music and a drink in hand is luring but, know rules on rules and risks of food and beverages in and near pools and avoid innertubes and other devices which can trap or entangle residents. Resort-style pools should be muti-use pools, wide enough for sports and group exercising, multiple depths but all shallow. There are no diving boards here.
INDOOR POOLS: BRINGING THE FUN INSIDE
Indoor pools are often for exercise only, allowing laps and group exercise year-round. Due to the conditioned environment coupled with high humidity, indoor pools are challenging to maintain. Good ventilation is necessary and chlorine pools are not recommended for these closed environments. A good compromise is an indoor/outdoor pool. Also referred to as a greenhouse or caged pool, these plexiglass and screen-paneled enclosures can reduce flying insects, and provide good ventilation as well as shade. The use of plexiglass and screening creates a more controlled environment which can be just as appealing as an outdoor open pool but, without the safety gates and fencing required in most jurisdictions for exterior pools.
ACCESSORIES: LIVE IT UP AROUND THE POOL
An active environment around the pool will encourage more residents to use the space. This means not just grills but amenities such as fully equipped outdoor kitchens, bars, fireplaces, and pavilions with audio/video capabilities and even live entertainment. Comfort is key, so multiple furniture options with both cushioning and support are important. Just like indoors, everyone has their favorite seat, and they will move it to the location they like the best. Thus, providing a variety of options with unique vantages in safe accessible areas is important. Quality materials are key to avoiding short and long-term operational and maintenance costs. Designed and maintained, the pool area can feature everything from casual afternoon cookouts to elegant evening wine tastings or even a movie night – outside.
Costs: Finding the right value
First costs include specialized design, selection between Chlorine, Salt, Mineral, UV, or Ozone systems, multiple low suction, and distribution ports for cleaning, solar or gas heaters, landscaping, fences, hardscaping, enclosures, exterior showers, accessibility, restrooms, surfaces, and furniture. Other operational costs include added staff, insurance, and electricity.
A pool is a marketing windfall that can quickly become a safety concern marketing concern like any other poorly selected or maintained asset. Thus, making informed decisions early based on goals applicable to your location and acuity level can ensure greater success. Selecting the right architect, landscape architect, contractor, and pool design professional is all key in creating an environment that will not only appeal to the new resident but, will also maintain a lifestyle for the existing resident for years to come.
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