Frequently Asked Questions About Independent & Assisted Living at Cordia at Grand Traverse Commons
Whether someone is exploring options for themselves or a loved one, this FAQ section offers helpful answers about life at Cordia at Grand Traverse Commons – including what to expect, how to get started and why so many trust Cordia at Grand Traverse Commons for independent and assisted living near Traverse City, Michigan.
Is Cordia the Right Fit for You or Your Loved One?
Q: Who is Cordia a good fit for?
A: Cordia at Grand Traverse Commons in Traverse City, Michigan is well suited for older adults who value learning, connection and purposeful living. Many Members are drawn to Cordia because they want to stay mentally engaged, socially connected and physically active while living in a strong and supportive community. People who thrive here are looking for independence with connection, not just a place to live.
The goal at Cordia is to provide a community that nurtures the mind, spirit and body, where seniors can engage in meaningful pursuits, build strong and powerful friendships, improve their overall health and well-being and enjoy services such as fine dining, concierge and spa services and outstanding programming.
Q: Who might Cordia not be a good fit for?
A: Cordia provides both independent living and assisted living. It is not a skilled nursing facility (nursing home) and does not provide memory care for individuals with elopement risk or significant cognitive impairments.
Q: What makes Cordia different from other senior living communities in Traverse City?
A: Cordia stands out among other senior living communities in Traverse City for its Five Pillars of Well-Being philosophy and its lifelong learning focus. Programming is designed to stimulate the mind, support physical health, nurture emotional balance and foster deep social and cultural engagement. Cordia’s setting within the historic Grand Traverse Commons and the greater Grand Traverse region also creates a unique backdrop for a fulfilling lifestyle.
Cordia is fundamentally built around lifelong learning and holistic well-being, not just amenities or activities. Rather than offering a calendar designed to fill time, Cordia’s mission is to create opportunities for Members to continue to lead meaningful lives. Intellectual engagement, meaningful conversations and cultural exploration are central to daily life.
Q: What are the benefits of living in a senior community vs. staying home?
A: Living in a senior community provides built-in social connection, support services and opportunities for engagement that can be difficult to maintain at home. Community connections often become harder to sustain with age, even though the need for meaningful relationships remains strong. Isolation can negatively affect physical health, mental well-being and quality of life.
At Cordia, the focus is on building a strong community and creating pathways to meaningful friendships. This strong foundation, combined with sophisticated programming, provides ongoing opportunities to maintain independence and overall wellness. Research shows that consistent social, physical and intellectual activity contributes to healthier aging and a greater sense of purpose.
Independent Living and Assisted Living at Cordia
Q: What’s the difference between independent living and assisted living at Cordia?
A: Cordia offers both independent living and assisted living in the same community through two lifestyle options: Club Living and Club Living Plus.
Club Living is Cordia’s approach to independent living. It is ideal for older adults who want to live independently while enjoying the benefits of a full-service community. Club Living Members live in private residences and enjoy chef-prepared meals, housekeeping, maintenance-free living and access to all Cordia extensive programming and high-quality amenities.
Club Living Plus is Cordia’s approach to assisted living. It is for those who need help with some daily activities of living, but do not require skilled nursing care. Club Living Plus Members enjoy their own private residence and the same learning-centered culture and community life as Club Living, but may also access assistance with personal care as needed. With customized care plans and professional wellness staff available 24/7, every Member experiences a safe, purposeful and self-directed lifestyle.
Q: What happens if a Member’s care needs change?
A: At Cordia, care is available to Members in both Club Living and Club Living Plus. If a Member in Club Living who has been living independently begins to need more support, some customized services can be added while remaining in independent living. If needs increase further, a smooth transition to Club Living Plus assisted living can be arranged. Even when additional support is needed Members continue to make decisions about their daily routines, meals and participation in programs.
Q: Can Members move from Club Living to Club Living Plus?
A: Yes. One of the advantages of Cordia at Grand Traverse Commons is the ability for Members to transition from independent living (Club Living) to assisted living (Club Living Plus) as needs change over time. This allows Members to remain part of the same community, continue to access the shared amenities, maintain relationships and continue participating in familiar programs while receiving additional support as needed.
Q: What kind of support is available in Club Living Plus?
A: Club Living Plus offers personalized support that may include assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing and dressing, medication management and coordination of care as needed. Care plans are customized to each Member and staff ensure that Members retain independence wherever possible while staying safe and well-cared-for.
Q: Can assisted living Members participate fully in community life?
A: Yes. Cordia’s full programming schedule remains available to all Members, no matter where they live, and our assisted living Members are encouraged to remain connected to the same learning opportunities, cultural experiences and social relationships that define Cordia. Amenities in the community are shared equally by Club Living and Club Living Plus Members. In addition, Cordia at Grand Traverse Commons provides additional programming, with accommodations provided to ensure safety and accessibility, for our Club Living Plus Members.
What is Daily Life Like at Cordia?
Q: What does a typical week look like at Cordia?
A: Life at Cordia balances routine with opportunities for exploration. A typical week at Cordia at Grand Traverse Commons blends learning, wellness and social connection. Most days start with a series of exercise classes, such as the strength training circuit or functional fitness class. Members then might attend a morning lecture led by a visiting historian or local artist, enjoy a healthy lunch with neighbors and participate in afternoon workshops or discussion groups. No two days are exactly alike, and Members choose in which programs they participate. Cordia also offers excursions, outings and even overnight trips, adding variety and engagement throughout the year.
Q: How are programs developed and led?
A: Programs are curated by Cordia staff in collaboration with local experts, visiting instructors and Member leaders. Every offering is designed to engage multiple dimensions of Cordia’s Five Pillars of Well-Being, whether physical, intellectual, cultural, emotional or spiritual, so Members can choose programs that best match their interests and abilities.
Q: Can Members choose how involved they want to be?
A: Absolutely. At Cordia, the elaborate weekly programming schedule is created with the Five Pillars of Well-Being as its foundation, offering something for everyone. Members select which programs they will attend and to what degree they will participate. Some choose to attend every lecture, workshop or social event while others prefer smaller, quieter activities or simply listening in on a topic of interest. The focus is always on personal engagement, not obligation.
Q: What’s are meals like at the community?
A: Two dining options – the Main Dining Room and the Cordia Pub – support the palates of Cordia’s Members, and meals are as much about the conversation as they are about the food itself. Meals are served restaurant-style, where Members choose multiple courses from a selection of chef-prepared menu items, which are then served by waitstaff who know each Member by name. Menu selections change daily, with options to fit a variety of tastes and dietary needs. Cordia Members may add to their meal beverages from Cordia’s wine list and full-service bar menu.
Family and friends are welcome to join Members for a meal at any time (reservations requested).
Safety & Peace of Mind
Q: What safety features are in place for Members?
A: At Cordia safety is taken seriously. Features include accessible residence designs, a building-wide emergency call system and trained staff available on premise around the clock. External building doors and interior residence doors are secured by a state-of-the-art key card system with security cameras throughout the building. Residents in both assisted living and independent living can enjoy peace of mind without giving up independence.
Q: Does Cordia have staff available around the clock?
A: Yes. Staff are onsite 24/7 to provide support whenever it is needed. Members and families throughout Northern Michigan trust Cordia to be there day or night.
Q: How does Cordia handle emergencies or medical concerns?
A: The team is trained to respond quickly, calmly and compassionately. Established emergency protocols are in place and coordination with families and healthcare providers ensures Members receive the attention they need. Close proximity to Munson Medical Center and nearby medical offices and clinics provides additional reassurance.
Practical Questions About Living at Cordia
Q: What’s included in monthly pricing?
A: Independent living monthly fees at Cordia include the private residence, 31 chef-prepared meals, weekly housekeeping, maintenance, the elaborate programming schedule and much more. Cordia’s assisted living monthly fees also include laundry services, additional meals, daily tidying and daily wellness visits.
Monthly rates vary based on the residence selected, location and the level of care needed, if any. If care is needed, care plans are customized to each individual Member’s needs and billed separately. Pricing is designed to be transparent and predictable.
Q: Do you accept Medicaid, long-term care insurance or veteran benefits?
A: Cordia is private pay; however, many long-term care insurance plans will cover the costs associated with assisted living at Cordia. Since each plan is different, confirmation with the insurance provider is required. Some Members use veteran benefits to help cover assisted living expenses and this option is encouraged for those eligible.
Q: Is Cordia Pet-Friendly?
A: Absolutely. Members may bring up to two pets (dogs or cats) weighing up to 30 pounds each provided they are able to manage the pet’s needs. Larger dogs may be approved on a case-by-case basis by the CEO.
Q: Where are you located?
A: Cordia’s senior living community is located in beautiful Traverse City, MI within the Village at Grand Traverse Commons. Residents are surrounded by natural beauty, local shops and quaint eateries, Munson Medical Center and many medical providers and everything Northern Michigan has to offer.
Q: Are guests and family members allowed to visit?
A: Absolutely. Families and friends are welcomed for visits, meals, celebrations or quiet time together. Guests wishing to stay overnight may stay in their loved one’s residence or reserve Cordia’s guest suite.
Membership Process FAQs
Q: How do I start the process of moving in?
A: For those looking for independent or assisted living near Traverse City, MI or anywhere in Northern Michigan, it all starts with a conversation with Cordia’s Membership Director, Kelly Hollinger. Kelly can be reached at (231) 995-5266 or via email us at khollinger@cordia.biz.
Q: Is there a waitlist?
A: Yes and no. It depends on the residence style and level of care. Some options may be available right away while others will have a wait. Availability and next steps will be explained during the inquiry process.
Q: Can I bring my own furniture and décor?
A: Absolutely. Personalization of one’s residence is encouraged. Cordia has a dedicated team member to help make the transition go smoothly and who can offer advice as to which furniture and personal items will help maximize one’s unique private residence.
Q: How does Cordia help new Members feel connected?
A: Moving into a community like Cordia is recognized as one of life’s biggest transitions. Cordia’s New Member Orientation process helps new residents feel more at home and make connections with others. All Members have experienced the same transition and have been “the new kid”, they know exactly what it feels like, which is why they are quick to welcome new Members. The Cordia team also actively supports this process. The goal is to help each Member thrive, especially those new to the community.
Q: How do I schedule a tour of Cordia at Grand Traverse Commons?
A: Prospective residents and families can schedule a personal tour by contacting Cordia’s Membership Director, Kelly Hollinger, at (231) 995-5266 or via email us at khollinger@cordia.biz. Visits provide an opportunity to experience the community, meet Members and staff and learn whether independent living or assisted living at Cordia is the right fit.