What is Washington Square? As Hinsdale’s only retirement community, this charming and comfortable home provides men and women a carefree lifestyle which encourages them to pursue interests and activities without the concerns of home ownership.  Gracious dining, healthcare consultation, transportation, stimulating activities, and 24-hour security enrich the lifestyle that has been an ideal choice for older adults for over 30 years.  Washington Square is a not-for-profit community located in the center of the village, steps from the library, shopping, doctors and all the conveniences of Hinsdale. Residents remain vital participants in the daily rhythm of their greater community. What kind of activities do you offer at Washington Square? Our full-time Activities Director strives to meet the varied interests and needs of all residents. The schedule includes entertaining and educational programs, exercise, day trips to exciting Chicagoland attractions, discussion groups, to mention a few. Everyone receives a monthly newsletter and calendar, so they can plan ahead. What about exercise? There is a regularly scheduled exercise class. Residents swim at a local pool and walk at the community center track. When the weather is agreeable, a brisk walk into the surrounding neighborhood is popular. What meals are served? The evening meal is served 365 days during the year. Dining begins with appetizers, including a homemade soup, and ends with a delicious dessert or fresh fruit. Breakfast or lunch is provided when there is a special event such as the monthly birthday lunch. When a resident is ill, tray service is available at no charge. Will I receive a meal credit when I’m away? Credit is given when meals are missed for 14 or more consecutive days. That credit, which appears on the following monthly statement, starts with the first day of absence. How do I know what is served for dinner? The week’s menu is made available and posted so the men and women who live at Washington Square can plan what they will eat at dinner during the week. Alternative menu items are listed for those who desire a change. Does the chef prepare for special diets? Our chef does not prepare for special diets, but meals are prepared with older adults in mind. Alternatives to the menu are available, including fresh fruit rather than the dessert. Residents are responsible for making the appropriate changes. Are guests welcome? Guests are encouraged and always welcome at Washington Square – both in the dining room and as house guests in resident homes. A nominal charge for a guest in the dining room appears on the following month’s statement. What is the healthcare program? Through an affiliation with the Adventist Health System (Hinsdale and LaGrange Hospitals), a geriatric nurse practitioner is at the Washington Square Wellness Clinic for consultation on a regular basis. A geriatric physician is also available by appointment. The paramedics and Hinsdale Hospital are within close proximity, and our staff is prepared to summon help when needed. What happens in an emergency? There is a staff member or security available 24 hours a day to respond to emergencies. In most cases, residents are transported to the hospital after being evaluated by the paramedics. If, upon release from the hospital, a resident can return to Washington Square, but requires assistance, we are prepared to help the family or resident arrange for someone to provide the care that is needed. If a resident requires rehabilitation at a healthcare facility, Washington Square staff and residents remain in contact until the resident returns. What if I need more help later on? Unlike most retirement communities that ask you to move when help is needed, we encourage our residents to have the assistance they need in their apartments. Residents or their family members can hire caregivers if the need arises. The staff at Washington Square is prepared to identify different resources available. Are laundry facilities available? Washers and dryers are available at convenient locations in Washington Square at no charge. Can I bring my car? Yes! Reserved parking spaces, either in a covered or uncovered location are available for a monthly fee. The parking areas are immediately adjacent to the building. Is transportation provided to shopping and the doctor? Washington Square’s bus is available to take you anywhere within 10 miles of Hinsdale. Reservations are required and schedules are prepared on a first-come, first-served basis. Are pets allowed at Washington Square? Each request to bring a pet to Washington Square will be considered on its own merit. Pet owners are asked to be considerate of the rights and well-being of others at all times. Are the charges and services different for the townhomes? Charges for the townhomes are included in the range of prices listed in the brochure for all the residences at Washington Square. The residents who live in the townhomes enjoy all the services and amenities available to everyone else who lives in our community. Do I have to sign in or out whenever I come and go? Of course not! We do request, however, that residents sign out when they do not plan to return for dinner. Likewise, we need to know when guests are expected. If residents plan to be away, we request that they advise us so we can plan for their absence in the dining room, for mail or package collection, etc. Is Washington Square affiliated with a large corporation or church? No. Washington Square is an independent, not for profit corporation. The facility is governed by an all volunteer Board of Directors, comprised mostly of local residents. Many of the board members have or have had a relative residing at Washington Square.