Regular Post

Written by webtechs

9 June 2025

Retiring to Sedona

Why Retire In Sedona Arizona?

Retiring to Sedona, Arizona can be a dream come true for many—offering stunning red rock landscapes, a mild four-season climate, a strong wellness community, and a peaceful lifestyle. But before you pack your bags, here’s a clear, practical guide to help you decide if Sedona is right for your retirement.

️ Why People Retire to Sedona

✅ Pros:

Breathtaking Scenery
- Iconic red rock formations, national forests, and hiking trails everywhere.
- Outdoor activities: hiking, biking, birdwatching, golf.
Mild Climate (By Arizona Standards)
- 4 seasons: warm summers (but not Phoenix-hot), cool winters with occasional snow.
- Elevation: ~4,350 feet, offering cooler temperatures than low desert cities.
Vibrant Wellness Culture
- Home to spas, yoga retreats, alternative medicine, and meditation centers.
- “Vortex” energy sites draw spiritual travelers and healers.
Safe and Peaceful Living
- Low crime rate, quiet pace.
- Ideal for peaceful retirement without urban chaos.
Small-Town Charm with Upscale Perks
- Boutique shopping, art galleries, gourmet dining.
- Several retirement-friendly communities, including gated neighborhoods.

Housing and Cost of Living

Expense Category	Sedona Average (2025)	Notes
Median Home Price	~$790,000	Much higher than the AZ average
Rent (2-bed)	$2,000–$2,800/mo	Limited inventory, high demand
Utilities	~$200/mo	Mild temps = lower cooling costs than Phoenix
Groceries	10–15% above national avg	Tourist pricing on some goods
Healthcare Access	Moderate	Nearby Cottonwood has major hospital

TIP: Retirees often explore nearby Cottonwood or Village of Oak Creek for lower home prices and similar views.

Healthcare in Sedona

Primary providers: Verde Valley Medical Center (in Cottonwood), urgent care clinics in Sedona.
Sedona has several holistic and alternative care options.
For major specialists or surgery, Flagstaff or Phoenix (~1–2 hours away) are typical.

Senior & Retirement Communities

55+ communities are limited within Sedona, but common in surrounding areas.
Examples:
- Sedona Shadows (manufactured homes, clubhouse, pool)
- The Ridge at Sedona (resort-style condos)
- Cottonwood Ranch (popular for retirees seeking affordability)

Lifestyle & Community

Spiritual and wellness-oriented community (meditation, sound healing, reiki)
Large art and cultural presence: First Friday Art Walks, film festivals, sculpture gardens
Easy day trips to: Flagstaff, Jerome, Prescott, Grand Canyon

Challenges or Downsides

Concern	Notes
Housing Costs	Higher than national and Arizona average
Tourism Traffic	Can be congested during weekends and peak seasons
Limited Medical Care	Some retirees prefer proximity to full-service hospitals
Not Walkable	A car is necessary for daily living
Low Nightlife	Quiet evenings, not ideal for nightlife seekers

Is Sedona Right for You?

Preference	Sedona is a Good Fit?
Love nature & hiking	✅ Yes
Prefer quiet, small-town living	✅ Yes
Need constant nightlife or big city vibe	❌ No
Want affordability	❌ Not ideal
Interested in spiritual or wellness lifestyle	✅ Absolutely

The Cost Of Living in Sedona for Seniors

The cost of living in Sedona, Arizona for seniors is higher than both the national and Arizona average, largely due to housing costs and the premium lifestyle Sedona offers. However, many retirees find the natural beauty, wellness-oriented culture, and peaceful small-town environment worth the investment.

Here’s a full breakdown tailored for seniors:

Estimated Monthly Budget for a Senior in Sedona (2025)

Expense Category	Estimated Cost (Single Senior)	Notes
Housing (Rent/Mortgage)	$1,800 – $3,200+	Depends on home ownership, HOA fees, or rent
Utilities	$150 – $250	Low cooling needs due to elevation
Groceries	$400 – $600	Organic/health foods are common and cost more
Transportation	$200 – $400	Car ownership is necessary
Healthcare	$400 – $800	Medicare + supplemental plan recommended
Entertainment/Leisure	$100 – $300	Dining out, art galleries, spiritual retreats
Miscellaneous	$100 – $200	Clothing, gifts, personal items

Total (Owner with no mortgage): ~$2,200 – $3,200/month

Total (Renter or mortgage): ~$3,200 – $4,800/month

Housing for Seniors

Sedona has limited 55+ communities, and no large-scale retirement complexes. Most seniors either:

Own a home or condo (high upfront cost, lower monthly)
Rent a home, casita, or apartment (higher monthly cost, less maintenance)

Option	Cost (2025 Est.)
1BR Apartment (rent)	$1,800 – $2,400/month
2BR Home (rent)	$2,400 – $3,200/month
Median Home Price	~$790,000
Property Taxes	~0.6% of assessed value
HOA Fees (some areas)	$50 – $300/month

Healthcare Costs for Seniors in Sedona

Nearby Hospital: Verde Valley Medical Center (in Cottonwood)
Medicare is widely accepted.
Supplemental insurance plans recommended for specialists or emergencies.
Many retirees factor in trips to Flagstaff or Phoenix for advanced care.

Healthcare Service	Typical Cost Range
Medicare + Supplement	$300 – $600/month
Doctor Visit (out of pocket)	$100 – $150
Prescription Copays	$0 – $50
Alternative Therapies	$50 – $150/session

Transportation

No robust public transportation—car required
Uber/Lyft is available but limited
Senior transportation programs exist in nearby Cottonwood or through local nonprofits

Groceries & Dining

Groceries 10–15% higher than national average
Organic and specialty wellness items more common (and costly)

Example Item	Sedona Price (2025)
Gallon of Milk	$4.50
Dozen Eggs (Organic)	$6.00
Sit-down Lunch for Two	$35 – $50
Farmers Market Veggies	Premium priced but fresh

Entertainment & Lifestyle

Art galleries, hiking, spirituality centers, nature tours
Many free or low-cost outdoor options
Frequent wellness workshops and retreats (can be expensive)

Best Ways for Seniors to Save in Sedona

Live in Village of Oak Creek: Lower housing costs, same scenery
Use Medicare Advantage plans with local provider networks
Join local senior or community centers for classes and support
Volunteer or part-time work in local tourism or art communities

Comparing Sedona, Cottonwood and Prescott As Places To Retire

Sedona, Cottonwood, and Prescott are three of Northern Arizona’s most popular retirement destinations, each offering a distinct lifestyle. Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help you decide which community fits your retirement goals, lifestyle, and budget:

1. Quick Snapshot: Overview Comparison

Feature	Sedona	Cottonwood	Prescott
Vibe	Scenic, spiritual, artsy	Small-town, practical	Historic, outdoorsy, vibrant
Elevation	~4,350 ft	~3,300 ft	~5,300 ft
Climate	Mild 4 seasons, warm summers	Hotter summers	Cooler winters with light snow
Median Home Price	~$790,000	~$380,000	~$540,000
Population	~10,000	~13,000	~46,000
Medical Access	Nearby in Cottonwood	Full-service hospital	Full medical services + VA hospital
Cost of Living	(High)	(Affordable)	(Moderate)
Traffic/Tourism	Heavy in peak seasons	Low tourist traffic	Moderate year-round tourism
Walkability	Low	Moderate	Moderate to high (downtown)

2. Cost of Living Comparison

Category	Sedona	Cottonwood	Prescott
Median Rent (2BR)	$2,400–$3,200/mo	$1,400–$1,800/mo	$1,800–$2,400/mo
Home Price (Median)	~$790,000	~$380,000	~$540,000
Utilities (monthly)	$150–$250	$140–$220	$160–$240
Groceries	10–15% above avg	Average	Slightly above avg
Healthcare Insurance	$400–$800/month	$350–$750/month	$400–$800/month

Winner for Affordability: Cottonwood

3. Healthcare & Senior Services

Feature	Sedona	Cottonwood	Prescott
Primary Hospital	In Cottonwood (15 min)	Verde Valley Medical Center	Yavapai Regional Medical Center
VA Medical Center	❌ None nearby	❌	✅ Large VA hospital
Specialists Availability	Limited locally	Moderate	Excellent
Senior Centers & Programs	Limited	Active programs available	Extensive senior services

Winner for Healthcare Access: Prescott

4. Lifestyle & Community Comparison

Lifestyle Category	Sedona	Cottonwood	Prescott
Activities	Art, hiking, spirituality, retreats	Community events, river trails	Festivals, hiking, historic downtown
Climate Comfort	4 seasons, dry and mild	Hotter summers	Cooler winters, mild summers
Outdoor Recreation	Red Rock hiking, yoga, stargazing	Verde River, wineries, biking	Lakes, mountains, national forests
Nightlife	Very limited	Very limited	Modest: restaurants, live music
55+ Communities	Few, luxury priced	Several, affordable	Several, moderately priced

Winner for Vibrant Senior Life: Prescott
Winner for Scenic & Spiritual Lifestyle: Sedona

Best for What Type of Retiree?

Preference	Best Choice
Natural beauty + peaceful retreats	Sedona
Budget-conscious + friendly town	Cottonwood
Well-rounded active retirement	️ Prescott
Access to VA services	Prescott
Minimal traffic + small-town feel	️ Cottonwood
Artistic, wellness-oriented living	Sedona

Final Thoughts:

Sedona is ideal if you value spiritual living, desert beauty, and are financially comfortable.
Cottonwood is a great choice for a relaxed, budget-friendly lifestyle with basic amenities.
Prescott offers the best balance of affordability, healthcare, activities, and senior infrastructure.

Retirement, Retiring in Arizona, Sedona, Senior Health Issues, Senior Living

Regular Post

Written by webtechs

24 March 2023

Causes of Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis happens when excessive bone mass is gone, and changes happens in the structure of bone tissue itself. Specific risk factors can lead to the advancement of osteoporosis or could increase the possibility that you are going develop the disease.

A lot of people with osteoporosis have many risk factors, but others that develop the disease might not have any particular risk factors. There are some risk factors that can’t be changed by you, and others that you might be able to change. Nevertheless, by understanding these factors, you might be able to prevent the disease and fractures.

What Causes Osteoporosis?

Factors that might increase your risk for osteoporosis comprise of:

Gender. Your likelihood of developing osteoporosis is greater when you’re a woman. They have lesser peak bone mass and smaller bones than men do. Nevertheless, men are still vulnerable, especially following the age of seventy.
Age. As you get older, bone loss occurs more quickly, and newer bone growth is more prolonged. After a while, your bones can get weak and your risk for developing the disease is increased.
Body size. Slim, thin-boned men and women are at a greater risk to develop the disease since they have less bone to lose in comparison to large boned men and women.
Race. Caucasian and women of Asian descent are at an increased risk. Mexican American and African American women are at a lower risk. Caucasian men are at an increased risk than their Mexican American and African American counter parts.
Family history. Research shows that your chance for osteoporosis and bone fractures may increase should one of your parents have a history of osteoporosis or bone fractures.

Changes to hormones. Low levels of specific hormones can increase chances of developing the disease. For instance:
- Low estrogen levels in women following menopause.
- Low levels of estrogen from the atypical lack of menstrual cycles in pre-menopausal women because of hormone disorders or extreme degrees of physical activity.
- Lower levels of testosterone in men. Men with complications that induce low testosterone are at risk for developing the disease. On the other hand, the progressive decrease of testosterone with getting older is most likely not a significant reason for loss of bone.

Diet. Starting in childhood and into advanced years, a diet low in vitamin D and calcium can increase your chance for osteoporosis and bone fractures. Undue dieting or insufficient protein intake could increase your chances for bone loss and osteoporosis.

Other health concerns. Many other health concerns that you might be able to treat or handle can increase the risk of osteoporosis, like other hormonal and endocrine diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, gastrointestinal diseases, certain types of cancers, AIDS/HIV, and bulimia.
Medications. Long term use of some types of medications might make you more potential to osteoporosis develop and bone loss, like:
- Adrenocorticotropic and hormone Glucocorticoids, in which treat differing conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis and/or asthma.
- Anti-epileptic medicines, in which treat seizures and other neurological ailments.
- Cancer medications, in which use hormones to treat prostate and breast cancer.
- Proton pump inhibitors, in which lowers stomach acid.
- Discerning serotonin re-uptake inhibitors, in which treats anxiety and depression.
- Thiazolidinediones, in which treats type 2 diabetes.

Way of life. A healthy way of life can be vital for keeping bones strong. Factors that lead to bone loss comprise of:
- Decreased levels of physical activity and lengthy periods of inactivity can lead to an increased degree of bone loss. They also leave you in improper physical condition, which can increase your chance of falling and breaking a bone(s).
- Heavy drinking of alcoholic beverages is a considerable risk factor for osteoporosis.
- Reports show that smoking is a risk factor for osteoporosis and bone fractures. Researchers are still evaluating if the effect of smoking on bone health is from tobacco use by itself or if people that smoke have more potential of developing osteoporosis.

Find Retirement Communities In Sedona

Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers independent living in Sedona, Arizona, can help! Call us today at (928) 496-6547 and learn more about our facility and what we have to offer today’s seniors.

Osteoporosis, Senior Health Issues

Regular Post

Written by Brian B

12 August 2020

Physical Games For Seniors

With dozens of activities available at independent and assisted living facilities, we’ve compiled a list of the best physical games for seniors. Whether the goal is to exercise, socialize or stimulate the mind, these four games are perfect for today’s active senior citizens.

Bocce Ball

Bocce Ball’s history goes back further than one would ever guess. The sport’s first reference dates back to 5200 B.C., in fact. English scientist, Sir Francis Petrial, discovered a painting of two children playing the sport of Bocce Ball in an ancient Egyptian Tomb. By 600 B.C. the sport had made its way to Greece, eventually gaining popularity in Holland, Flanders and Belgium, as well. In 1896, the sport took center stage, with the first Bocce Olympiad being held in Athens. The Bocce boom officially began taking place in the United States by the late 1980’s, paving the way for it to become one of the most popular games for seniors today.

Game Rules

Open Bocce is perfect for casual Bocce players due mostly to the ability to play seemingly anywhere. Eight balls, plus a pallino (smaller ball) can be used for up to 2, 4, 6 or 8 players on the same court. A random participant is chosen to throw the pallino, which is the same player who tosses the first bocce ball. This participant is now considered “inside” because his or her ball is now closet to the pallino, by default. This player loses his second turn until a different player puts their ball closer to the pallino. All players now throw their own ball, with the closest to the pallino awarded one point. Additional points are earned for every one of the leader’s balls closer to the pallino than opponent’s balls. The frame is over after all players have tossed their balls, with 13 total points awarded for the overall winner.

Health Benefits

Bocce Ball is ideal for stress relief, mental stimulation, and can improve flexibility.

Yoga

Yoga is a highly effective practice for senior citizens. The controlled body positions, stretches and focus are perfect for mental and physical well-being. Achieving deep spiritual tranquility is a main priority for all yoga participants. The practice of yoga is believed to be more than 5,000 years old, and remains common today, especially among seniors. Yoga is a great way to stretch and exercise one’s body and spirit.

Health Benefits

Of the multiple benefits from yoga, weight loss is at the top of the list. With the weight reduction, metabolism is balanced, as well. Blood sugar and blood pressure could lower as a result of yoga participation. Increased muscle strength, flexibility and balance could come courtesy of yoga. The activity has been proven to improve cardiovascular and blood circulation.

Shuffleboard

Shuffleboard began being played in English pubs around the 15th century. The game has constantly changed and adapted with the times, but the rules have remained generally the same. For seniors, this is by far one of the most popular sports to play today.

Game Rules

As stated in the previous outline, rules of the game can be altered, but the objectives have always been in place. Outdoor and indoor versions of shuffleboard can vary, while undoubtedly requiring skill to emerge victorious. A player wins when reaching a score of 15, but some tournaments may require 21 points as the benchmark. Taking alternate turns, each player slides their four weights across the opponent’s board. The objective is simple: slide your weights into the area with the highest available scoring value. Players can knock an opponent’s weights off the board with their own weights, or use them to protect their score on the other end of the board.

Health Benefits

Shuffleboard reduces stress, while increasing heart rate at the same time. Mental stimulation is an added benefit to the obvious workout for several muscle groups.

Line Dancing

It is recommended that all human beings, especially seniors, should incorporate at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise in their daily routine. A great way to hit that goal is by participating in line dancing classes. Line dancing is great for the heart, and above all else keeps you healthy and in shape. The activity is perfect for beginners who may not have the greatest rhythm or timing when it comes to the world of dance.

Health Benefits

Line dancing has a plethora of health benefits. The obvious benefits include improving stamina, balance and posture. The constant movement has been shown to lower stress and improve stamina over time. In addition, an avid line dancer should see a lowered risk of diabetes, osteoporosis, high blood pressure and heart disease.

Find Independent Living In Sedona

Assised Living, Assisted Living Community, Assisted Living Retirement Communities, Independent Living, Retirement, Senior Health Issues, Senior Living

Regular Post

Written by webtechs

10 October 2018

Common Senior Health Issues

Are you searching for “common senior health issues”? If you are, you may be concerned about what your loved one may face as they grow older. Today, people in the United States can look forward to living longer than ever before. Once you reach the age of 65, data suggests that you can possibly live another 19 years, on average, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

10 Common Senior Health Issues

For a lot of us, then, senior living includes carefully handling chronic conditions in order to stay healthy. Here are some examples of common health issues that today’s senior’s face.

Arthritis

Arthritis is possibly the number one condition that people 65 or older deal with. The CDC estimates that it around 50 % of adults over 65 and can lead to pain and poorer quality of life for some. Despite the fact that arthritis discourages you from remaining active, it’s invaluable to work with your physician to develop a custom activity plan.

Cancer

According to the CDC, cancer is the second leading cause of death among people over age 65. The CDC also reported that 28% of men and 21% of women over the age of 65 are living with cancer. If detected early on through test screenings, such as colonoscopies, mammograms, and skin checks. A lot of types of cancer are not curable, but are treatable. Although you are not always able to prevention of cancer, you can enhance your quality of life as a senior living with cancer, along with your treatment, by working with your medical team and maintaining and following their suggestions.

Alzheimer’s Disease

According to the Center for Disease Control, Alzheimer’s disease estimated that around 92,604 deaths of people over the age of 65 in 2014. The Alzheimer’s Association reported that 1 in 9 people aged 65 and older, which is around 11%, have Alzheimer’s disease. Because diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease is challenging, it’s hard to know the exact number of people are living with this chronic condition.

Heart Disease

According to the Center of Disease Control, heart disease continues to be the leading killer of adults over the age of 65, totaling around 489,722 deaths in the year 2014. As a constant condition, heart disease affects 37 % of men and 26 % of women 65 and older. As people age, they are continuously living with risk factors, such as having high cholesterol or high blood pressure , that increases the chances of developing heart disease or suffering a stroke.

Respiratory Diseases

Chronic lower respiratory diseases, such as COPD or pulmonary hypertension, are the third leading cause of death among people 65 years of age and older. Among people 65 and older, about 10% of men and 13% of women are living with asthma, and 10% of men and 11% of women are living with emphysema or chronic bronchitis. Even though having a chronic respiratory disease escalates a senior’s health risk, making you more susceptible to pneumonia and other types of infections, getting lung function evaluations and taking the prescribed medication, or using oxygen as advised, will go a long way toward maintaining your health and your quality of life.

Osteoporosis

According to The National Osteoporosis Foundation they estimate that around 54 million Americans over the age of 50 are affected by low bone mass or osteoporosis, putting them at risk for a break or fracture. They also estimate that by the 2020 that number will increase to 64.4 million Americans.

Falls

The risk for falls needing an emergency room visit increases as we age. Year after year, 2.5 million people ages 65 and older are cared for in emergency rooms due to falls, according to the Center for Disease Control. That’s higher than any other age group. According to a study published in August 2015 in the American Journal of Emergency Medicine, 1/3 of seniors who take a trip to the emergency room for a fall possibly may find themselves there again within 1 year. Also be wary that most falls occur inside the home, where tripping dangers include throw rugs and slick bathroom floors.

Diabetes

The Center for Disease Control, estimates that 25% of people aged 65 and older are living with diabetes, a serious senior health risk. Some studies have found diabetes caused 54,161 deaths among adults over the age of 65 in 2014. Diabetes can be diagnosed and addressed early on, with easy blood tests for measuring blood sugar levels. The earlier you know that you have diabetes or are at risk for diabetes, the sooner you can begin making adjustments to manage the disease and improve your long-term health outlook.

Pneumonia and Influenza

Even though the flu and pneumonia are not chronic, these infections are included in the top 8 causes of death in people over the age of 65, according to the Center for Disease Control. Seniors are more susceptible to these diseases and are less able to fight them off. Senior healthcare suggests getting yearly flu shot, and getting a pneumonia vaccine if advised by your doctor, to prevent these types of infections.

Substance Abuse

An examination of data from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions suggests that 1 in 5 people over the age of 65 have had a substance abuse or alcohol abuse problem at some moment in their lives. Tobacco and Alcohol capped the list of non-medical substances abused by evaluation participators. Substance abuse and alcohol abuse are a huge concern for seniors’ health because the possibility of their interactions with prescription medications and the increased senior health risks, such as falls, related to intoxication.

Senior Living Facilities AZ

This list may seem intimidating, but with appropriate medical care, good lifestyle decisions, and support from family and health care specialists, today’s senior’s can enjoy a longer, high-quality life. To schedule a tour of one of our assisted living facilities, visit SLS Communities or for more information please call us today at 623-544-4777.

Senior Health Issues