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The First Days of Hospice Care

The first days of hospice care can be an emotional and significant time for both patients and their families. Here’s an overview of what to expect during this period:

1. Initial Assessment and Care Plan

  • Comprehensive Assessment: A hospice team, including doctors, nurses, social workers, and chaplains, will conduct an initial assessment of the patient’s medical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
  • Personalized Care Plan: Based on the assessment, the team will develop a customized care plan that outlines specific goals for pain management, symptom control, and emotional support.

2. Communication

  • Open Dialogue: Healthcare providers will communicate openly with the patient and family about the patient’s condition, prognosis, and the goals of hospice care.
  • Family Involvement: Family members are encouraged to participate in discussions to ensure that everyone’s wishes and concerns are taken into account.

3. Pain and Symptom Management

  • Focus on Comfort: The primary goal of hospice is to provide comfort. The care team will prioritize pain relief and symptom management, using medications and therapies tailored to the patient’s needs.
  • Adjustments: As symptoms change, the team will adjust medications and interventions to ensure ongoing comfort.

4. Support Services

  • Emotional and Spiritual Support: Hospice care includes emotional and spiritual support for both the patient and the family. Social workers and chaplains may be available for counseling and support.
  • Family Training: Family members may receive training on how to provide care and support to the patient, including medication administration and managing symptoms.

5. Home Environment Preparation

  • Creating a Comfortable Space: If hospice care is provided at home, the team may provide recommendations for creating a comfortable and safe environment for the patient, such as arranging furniture for accessibility.
  • Supplies and Equipment: Hospice may provide necessary medical equipment, such as hospital beds, oxygen supplies, and mobility aids.

6. Visiting the Patient

  • Flexible Visiting Hours: Family and friends are encouraged to visit. Hospice recognizes the importance of social connections, and there may be no restrictions on visiting hours.
  • Emotional Presence: Emotional support from loved ones can be invaluable during this time. Family members are encouraged to spend quality time with the patient.

7. 24/7 Availability

  • On-Call Support: Hospice services are typically available 24/7 for emergencies, questions, or urgent needs. Families should know how to reach the care team at any time.
  • Crisis Management: In case of sudden changes in the patient’s condition, the hospice team will respond promptly to provide necessary care.

8. Planning for the Future

  • Advanced Directives: Discussions about advance directives, including the patient’s preferences for end-of-life care and decisions about resuscitation or life support, may occur.
  • Funeral Planning: While difficult, some families may choose to begin discussing and planning for future arrangements during this time.

9. Grief Support

  • Preparation for Grief: Hospice recognizes that grief starts before loss. The team may provide resources and support for family members to prepare for the emotional impact of losing a loved one.
  • Continued Support: After the patient’s passing, hospice services often include grief counseling and support for family members.

Conclusion

The first days of hospice care are crucial for establishing a supportive environment for the patient and their loved ones. The focus is on comfort, dignity, and ensuring that both patients and families receive the care and support they need during this challenging time. Open communication with the hospice team can help navigate this journey and address any concerns that arise.

Sedona Winds Retirement Offers Independent Living In Sedona

Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers independent living, memory care, and assisted living in Sedona, Arizona. Call us today at 928-985-6259 and learn more about our facility and what we have to offer today’s seniors.

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Written by webtechs

The Final Days of Hospice Care

The final days of hospice care are a critical and emotional period for both the patient and their loved ones. Understanding what to expect can help you prepare and provide the best possible care and support. Here are key aspects to consider:

1. Physical Changes in the Patient

  • Decreased Appetite and Thirst: Patients often lose interest in eating and drinking as the body begins to shut down.
  • Changes in Breathing: Irregular breathing patterns, such as Cheyne-Stokes respiration (a cycle of rapid breaths followed by periods of no breathing), are common.
  • Cool Skin and Mottling: Hands, feet, and legs may become cool to the touch, and the skin may show mottling (bluish or purplish discoloration).
  • Increased Weakness and Fatigue: Patients typically become very weak and may spend most of their time sleeping or resting.
  • Reduced Urine Output: Kidney function declines, leading to less frequent urination.
  • Altered Consciousness: Patients may become less responsive, confused, or disoriented.

2. Emotional and Psychological Aspects

  • Anxiety and Restlessness: Some patients may experience agitation or anxiety, which can be managed with medications and comfort measures.
  • Withdrawal: It’s normal for patients to withdraw from social interactions as they focus inward.
  • Emotional Support: Providing a calm, supportive presence is crucial. Be patient and listen if the patient wants to talk about their fears or concerns.

3. Symptom Management

  • Pain Control: Managing pain effectively is a primary goal of hospice care. Medications can be adjusted to ensure comfort.
  • Comfort Measures: Techniques such as repositioning, providing oral care, and maintaining a comfortable environment are essential.
  • Medication: Medications for symptoms like nausea, shortness of breath, and anxiety are administered as needed.

4. Communication

  • Clear Information: Keep communication open with the hospice team. They can provide updates on the patient’s condition and adjust care plans accordingly.
  • Family Discussions: Have honest conversations with family members about the patient’s wishes and any end-of-life decisions that need to be made.
  • Respecting Wishes: Honor the patient’s and family’s wishes regarding treatments, interventions, and the preferred environment for passing.

5. Spiritual and Emotional Support

  • Spiritual Care: Many hospice programs offer chaplain services to provide spiritual support, regardless of religious affiliation.
  • Emotional Support: Hospice social workers and counselors can help families cope with grief and loss.

6. Practical Considerations

  • Advance Directives: Ensure all advance directives and legal documents, such as a living will or power of attorney, are in place and accessible.
  • Organizing Care: Make arrangements for who will be present during the final days, and coordinate with the hospice team for 24/7 support if necessary.
  • Comfort Items: Surround the patient with familiar items, such as photos, music, and favorite belongings, to create a comforting environment.

7. After Death Care

  • Immediate Actions: When death occurs, contact the hospice team. They will provide guidance on the next steps, including pronouncing death and notifying necessary parties.
  • Grief Support: Hospice care often includes bereavement support for families after the patient’s passing.

Understanding these aspects can help ensure that the final days of hospice care are as peaceful and comfortable as possible for both the patient and their loved ones. It’s a time for compassion, dignity, and honoring the patient’s life and wishes.

Sedona Winds Retirement Offers Independent Living In Sedona

Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers independent living, memory care, and assisted living in Sedona, Arizona. Call us today at 928-985-6259 and learn more about our facility and what we have to offer today’s seniors.

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Assisted Living Costs 2024
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Independent Living Costs 2024

The cost of independent living for adults can vary significantly depending on several factors, including:

Location: Costs are generally higher in larger cities and desirable coastal areas compared to smaller towns and rural locations.

Type of community: Options range from basic senior apartments to luxurious communities with extensive amenities and services.

Size and features of the unit: Studio apartments will be cheaper than larger units with multiple bedrooms and balconies. Additional features like in-unit laundry or patios can also increase the cost.

Level of care needed: Some independent living communities offer optional services like housekeeping, meal plans, or transportation, which add to the monthly fees.

Additional fees: Be aware of potential entrance fees, parking fees, and pet fees.

Here’s a general breakdown of costs:

  • Average monthly rent: $1,500 – $10,000
  • Entrance fee (optional): $5,000 – $50,000+

Resources for estimating costs:

Here are some tips for saving money on independent living:

  • Consider a smaller community or location: Smaller communities and those located in less expensive areas typically have lower costs.
  • Choose a basic apartment: Opt for a smaller unit without unnecessary features.
  • Cook your own meals: Opting out of meal plans can save money.
  • Utilize public transportation: If available, using public transportation instead of paying for parking can be cheaper.
  • Compare quotes from different communities: Get quotes from several communities before making a decision.

Remember: Independent living can be a great option for adults who want to maintain their independence but enjoy the benefits of a supportive community. Carefully consider your needs and budget when choosing a community to ensure you find the right fit at the right price.

Amenities With Assisted Living

Assisted living communities offer a wide range of amenities and services to cater to the diverse needs of their residents. While specific offerings can vary between communities, here’s a general overview of what you can expect:

Essential Services:

  • Personal care assistance: Help with bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and medication management.
  • Meals and dining: Three daily meals served in a restaurant-style setting, often with dietary accommodations available.
  • Housekeeping and laundry services: Regular cleaning of apartments and care for laundry needs.
  • Emergency call systems: 24/7 access to staff for assistance in case of emergencies.
  • Transportation: Scheduled transportation for errands, appointments, and social outings.

Additional Amenities and Services (may vary):

  • Social and recreational activities: Organized events, fitness classes, games, arts & crafts, and entertainment programs.
  • Wellness and health programs: On-site fitness centers, health screenings, and educational workshops.
  • Beauty salon and barber services: Hairstyling, manicures, and other personal grooming services.
  • Pet-friendly policies: Some communities welcome pets with specific guidelines.
  • Guest accommodations: Designated spaces for visiting family and friends.
  • Religious services: On-site or nearby chaplaincy services for various faiths.
  • Technology support: Assistance with using technology and communication devices.
  • Security features: Secured buildings, controlled access, and emergency response protocols.

Sedona Winds Retirement Offers Independent Living In Sedona

Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers independent living, memory care, and assisted living in Sedona, Arizona. Call us today at 928-985-6259 and learn more about our facility and what we have to offer today’s seniors.

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When Is The Right Time For Hospice Care?

he decision to transition to hospice care is a highly personal and emotional one. It’s typically made when a person is facing a life-limiting illness or condition and the focus of care shifts from curative treatments to providing comfort, pain management, and support for both the patient and their family. The right time for hospice care is influenced by several factors:

  1. Physician’s Recommendation: The primary care physician or specialist involved in the patient’s care often plays a crucial role in making a hospice recommendation. They assess the patient’s medical condition and prognosis and may suggest hospice care when curative treatment options are no longer effective.
  2. Life-Limiting Illness: Hospice care is most appropriate for individuals with a life-limiting illness or condition, such as advanced cancer, congestive heart failure, advanced Alzheimer’s disease, end-stage renal disease, or other terminal conditions. The patient’s prognosis is an essential consideration.
  3. Declining Health: When a person’s health is steadily declining, and they experience frequent hospitalizations, a decline in functional abilities, or worsening symptoms, it may be an appropriate time to consider hospice care.
  4. Frequent Hospitalizations: Repeated hospitalizations and emergency room visits can be physically and emotionally taxing for the patient and their family. Hospice can provide care in the patient’s home, which may lead to a more comfortable and peaceful environment.
  5. Refusal of Further Treatment: When a patient decides to discontinue aggressive or curative treatments and focus on comfort and quality of life, this may be an indication that hospice care is the right choice.
  6. Prognosis: The patient’s life expectancy is an important factor. Most hospice programs require a prognosis of six months or less to live, although this is not an exact science, and patients can sometimes live longer than initially anticipated.
  7. Patient and Family Wishes: It’s essential to consider the patient’s wishes and those of their family. Open and honest discussions about end-of-life care preferences are vital. The decision should align with the patient’s goals and values.
  8. Palliative Care Needs: If the patient requires comprehensive pain and symptom management to improve their quality of life and comfort, hospice care can be beneficial.
  9. Emotional and Spiritual Support: Hospice care offers not only medical care but also emotional, psychological, and spiritual support for patients and their families, which can be invaluable during this challenging time.
  10. Quality of Life: When curative treatments are no longer effective and the focus shifts to maintaining the patient’s comfort and dignity, hospice care can enhance the patient’s quality of life.

It’s important to have open and honest discussions with the patient, their family, and their healthcare providers about the appropriateness and timing of hospice care. Choosing the right time for hospice is a deeply personal decision, and the patient’s comfort, dignity, and wishes should be at the forefront of the decision-making process.

Sedona Winds Retirement Offers Independent Living In Sedona

Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers independent living, memory care, and assisted living in Sedona, Arizona. Call us today at 928-985-6259 and learn more about our facility and what we have to offer today’s seniors.

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Independent Living Costs 2023

How Much Does Independent Living Cost?

The cost of independent living will vary by location, care given, and services provided.  Keep reading to find out the average costs of independent living.

On average, independent living costs around $3,750 each year with average costs ranging from $1,500 to $6,000 each year in 2023 as reported by whereyoulivematters.com.

Elmcroft backs this up by stating, “Depending upon the area of the country you live in and what type of services and amenities are included, the price range for independent living is generally between $1,500 and $6,000 a month.”

  1. A simple ‘Service Rate’ each month runs between $1,000 and $10,000, respectfully
  2. A lot of apartments run around $2,300 and $3,500.
  3. The one-time fees in which comprise of the admission and apartment preparation runs between $500 and $1,500.

The prices above are for informational purposes only, for educating those curious about senior housing’s general cost. A community’s particular price range will vary and might be different to the typical costs listed above.

Amenities and Service Costs

Monthly rent is going to typically include several services, like the following:

  • All utilities excluding phone services or extended cable.
  • They keep a full schedule for different activities, scheduled transportation for things like doctor’s appointments, off-site activities, and shopping, etc.
  • Housekeeping comes on a routine weekly basis, which comprises of washing bed linens and bath towels.
  • They offer one to three meals a day that are prepared by a chef and served in a restaurant-style dining area.
  • They offer maintenance for different contingents, like HVAC filter changes, repairs on appliances, and more.
  • Emergency systems are in place and they offer several security features.

Any added charges are going to generally be the admission and/or community fees (that are non-refundable), and can range between $750 – $1,500 on average, which will cover the managerial expenses and building renovation costs. An expense for a second individual, if there is going to be one living there, this cost is typically between $500 – $1,000 each month, which can be evaluated for couples.

It would be wise to compare the costs that are related with both, residing in a home as a single family and moving to an independent living community, seek out the financial impact of each prior to making any decisions. A good piece of advice –  “Small Expenses do make an Impact on Seniors Lifestyles.” Don’t take for granted or underestimate expenses that are spent on dining, and the expense put towards the purchase of personal items.

Independent Living Cost Vs Assisted Living Cost

The cost of independent living will vary by location, care given, and services provided.  Keep reading to find out the average costs of independent living. On average, independent living costs around $3,750 each year with average costs ranging from $1,500 to $6,000, as reported by whereyoulivematters.com.

Assisted living costs in Sedona, Arizona average $4,005; with high costs ranging around $5,804 and low costs ranging around $2,206. This cost is slightly below the natural average median of $3,285.

Sedona Winds Retirement Offers Independent Living In Sedona

Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers independent living, memory care, and assisted living in Sedona, Arizona. Call us today at 928-985-6259 and learn more about our facility and what we have to offer today’s seniors.

More Articles About Assisted Living

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Biggest Reasons To Retire In Arizona

Biggest Reasons To Retire In Arizona

I you are searching for the “biggest reasons to retire in arizona“, this post should help. There is a great reason why Arizona has been a great retirement spot for many years now. In fact, over 50 years ago, the first retirement area was developed within the United States. It was called an active adult community which is still located within Sun City, Arizona. It is quite obvious about why people are picking Arizona for their retirement years. It is not just because of the days of sun that it offers, or all of the great golf courses. Take a look at some of the biggest reasons for a person to retire to Arizona and discover why it may be the right place for you.

Biggest Reasons For A Person To Retire To Arizona

One of the biggest reasons for picking Arizona to retire in is going to be the benefits of not being taxed on Social Security checks by the state. Those who happen to live on a fixed income will understand the importance of making money go as far as possible, just as they know its best when taxes are in their favor. Arizona is great for a retiree as it is a tax friendly state and they won’t tax your Social Security Benefits, which is big these days. Over half of the states in the United States will tax your Social Security Benefits.

We have taken the time and compiled the information that is needed for you to make that big choices about where you want to live after you retire. Here you will find some of the top reasons for making Arizona the top place to retire to.

Outdoor Activities in Arizona

Arizona has a lot of outdoor activities to offer like skiing, which can be done in Flagstaff, hang gliding across the desert, white water rafting, Championship golf courses and plenty of fishing on the Colorado River.

Arizona is home to the Grand Canyon National Park and even Red Rock State Park which is located near Sedona, which includes many other parks. Arizona has plenty of fabulous and free entertainment. Arizona is also the place to go if you happen to have really bad allergies. This is because of the dry air and climate that it offers what the rest of the country can’t, and that is allergy relief.

Then there is Arizona’s Grand Canyon that is the epicenter of desert golf, and it has more than 70 public golf courses and each one is highly ranked which attracts millions of golf enthusiasts.

You can even have the great outdoors in your backyard. There is plenty of wildlife that you can view such as bobcats, roadrunners, javelinas which is like a furry pig, coyotes, and snakes. Most of Arizona doesn’t have snow, which means you don’t have to worry about shoveling snow.

World Class Arabian Horse Show

In 1995 Scottsdale started their Arabian Horse Show, which features more than 2000 of the most alluring Arabian horses in the whole world. Thousands of people come from all over the globe to watch trainers, owners and breeders that come from around the world to compete. You are able to visit more than 300 different booths and vendors that are having demonstrations, showcasing food and various seminars.

There is also a city that will fit style in Arizona. Phoenix, is a highly affordable yet livable city. Sedona is considered to be a spiritual haven and is a visual miracle. Flagstaff is located at a higher elevation when compared to the rest of the state which makes it cooler and the scenery is so breathtaking that it attracts outdoor enthusiasts and offers a liberal contingency. Not to mention that is located close to Phoenix for those who want to go to the big city ever so often. Phoenix, Arizona is the home to rock star Alice Cooper. One of the biggest events in Arizona is the Arizona State Fair which attracts more than 1 million visitors to Arizona to enjoy rodeos, watch races, enjoy concerts, view livestock and to check out all the food booths.

Weather in Arizona

Arizona is able to offer a lot of sunshine and great weather. It is during winter that the temperatures will be around the same temperatures that the southeast has during summer months, only without all the humidity. The average rainfall for Arizona can range to under 3 inches in the desert areas to over 30 inches for the mountain areas a year. You are able to find both sunny and dry days and the nights are a bit cooler. The biggest cities in Arizona will have more than 250 days of sunshine a year. Flagstaff is one of the cities that has cooler weather, for those who enjoy a change in the weather.

Scottsdale Culinary Festival

Each year there is the Culinary Festival that is hosted in Scottsdale, which is the culinary festival that is the longest running in the United States. It attracts well over 36,000 visitors every single year. This festival runs for 6 days and it showcases celebrity chefs, gourmet foods, fine wines, microbrews, and restaurants. Then there is the Sonoran Hot Dog which was created in Tucson, Arizona, which is considered to be a real culinary treat that is unique to Arizona. This is basically a hotdog that is wrapped in bacon and then served on toasted white bun. It then gets layered with jalapenos, chopped tomatoes, mayo, mustard, onions, and pinto beans. Arizona also has a lot of unique foods to offer like prickly pear margaritas, cactus jelly, and mesquite honey.

Interesting Arizona Facts

Located in Prescott, Arizona is the oldest rodeo in the world. It started in 1888 and it is for those who would like to try bull riding or just want to watch others handle the bulls.

Another interesting fact is that the original London Bridge that was in London, England was actually moved to Lake Havasu City, Arizona and rededicated in 1971. That is pretty cool.

In Arizona, there are more than 25 Native American Tribes that are represented, and it represents the most percentage for the United States to have land designated for the Native Americans and it is referred to as the Indian Lands.

If you want to go back in time to the 1960’s, then there is the Tucson Folk Festival hosted in Tucson, Arizona. This festival attracts more than 10,000 folk music lovers and it is rated to be a top United States Folk Festivals, and it offers more than 20 hours of free live music which features Irish, old country, bluegrass and western music.

The housing located within Arizona is actually affordable. The median value for an Arizona home, according to recent data is just a bit more than $179,000 with the median for rentals being $1,100. Not to mention that there is the extra benefit of lower heating costs. You should keep in mind that it is cheaper to keep your home cooled than to heat it.

This is still a big kicker! Arizona does not tax Social Security Benefits! So, there is no estate tax, gift tax, or inheritance tax.

Retirement Communities Arizona

These are only some of the biggest reasons to retire in Arizona. Take a moment and share with us the reasons that you loved visiting Arizona or why you love living in Arizona. If you are thinking about retiring to Arizona, do not forget to check out the senior living services that we provide. Besides assisted living, we also offer home care services, memory care and independent living for the state of Arizona. All of our offered services are done by highly trained and skilled senior care providers at either one of our locations or in your home. Call us at 928-399-4091 for independent living information or at  928-985-6259 for assisted living information.

Written by webtechs

Assisted Living Camp Verde

Assisted Living Camp Verde

If you’re searching for “Assisted Living Camp Verde“, while looking for the best places to retire near Camp Verde, Arizona, then Sedona Winds Retirement Community can help! We are a very welcoming community that invites you to our scenic views and senior living lifestyle. Sedona Winds takes great pride in providing the amenities and services our seniors deserve. Our Retirement Community is built for today’s seniors. Take a look below to learn more about Assisted Living in Camp Verde, give Sedona Winds Retirement Community a call at 928-399-4091.

Assisted Living Near Camp Verde, Arizona

Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers Assisted LivingIndependent Living , and Memory Care Services Our facilities are located near Camp Verde, and have several different options available to meet the individual assisted living needs of our residents. Everything that our residents could want for or need will be within an arms reach, this includes: Health and medical offices, cultural centers, great places to shop, good places for eating out, sports arenas, and golf courses, and all of this is within a two mile radius of the facility.

The reason we are considered the best Assisted Living Facility

You’re going to find that Sedona Winds is considered to be the best in Assisted Living Facilities in the Camp Verde area, and this is due to how our community has been especially designed with the seniors of today in mind. Sedona Winds provides many different kinds of retirement living that includes Memory Care, Assisted Living, and Independent Living. It has been designed for seniors who are looking for a lifestyle that is active interesting, stimulating, and flexible enough to fit into their daily routines and schedules.

More about our Assisted Living Facility located close to Camp Verde

Sedona Winds is an attractive Assisted Living Facility that is located close to Camp Verde, Arizona. Providing very large alcove, one and two bedroom apartments, which are all spacious enough for your personal items, furniture, and clothing. Our Assisted Living Facility is a two story building that has been constructed around a beautiful courtyard which is also the main area for a majority of our activities, and it provides all of the apartments with a gorgeous view. We work at helping our residents to feel at home. Our facility also provides the residents with help in different areas, such as eating dressing, bathing medications, toileting, and so much more. All of our apartments have wonderful view of picturesque sunsets and sunrises as well.

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Included amenities:

  • A Pool that Sparkles
  • Recreational/Activity Room
  • Billiards/Pool Tables
  • The Dining area is designed in a Resort Style
  • Residents Library
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All apartments include:

  • Separate Heat & Air Units
  • Spacious floor plans
  • Provides window treatments
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator
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Included in Rent:

  • All utilities and cable television
  • Personal laundry done on a weekly basis
  • Deep cleaning performed on a weekly basis
  • Staffing on 24 hours a day
  • Residents are provided three meals daily
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The Community’s Safety:

  • Desk attendants on duty 24 hour daily
  • Provides residents with the Emergency Pendent System
  • Security cameras at facility
  • Offers transportation to and from appointments
  • Provides wheelchair access
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Available floor plans for assisted living:

Sedona Winds has several different assisted living floor plans available for residents to choose from. For those who have assisted living needs, and those who want to live an independent lifestyle, Sedona Winds has an active and convenient style of living for seniors in the Camp Verde, Arizona area.

Schedule A Tour Of Our Assisted Living Facility Near Camp Verde

For More information about Sedona Winds or to schedule a tour at our Assisted Living Facility in Camp Verde, give Sedona Winds a call at 928-399-4091.  Sedona Winds takes great pride in providing the amenities and services our seniors deserve. Contact us today and see what Sedona Winds can provide for you or your loved ones.