Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re searching for answers for yourself or for a new approach to quality care for a loved one, this is a great place to start. We invite you to explore the accommodations and services at Exeter House, your neighborhood resource for senior living in Seattle. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the services we provide.

Service Levels

Q What senior care services do you offer?

A. Exeter House offers Independent Living and Assisted Living. Additionally, our residents are given priority admission at our sister community, Skyline at First Hill, should they require skilled nursing or memory care. Our options are tailored to meet each resident’s evolving needs and lifestyle preferences.

Q. What assisted living amenities and services do you offer?

A. Assisted living at Exeter House is characterized by a distinctive combination of individualized care, warm surroundings and professional expertise. Those who choose our community will enjoy private studio or one-bedroom residences, and are assured of ongoing wellness evaluations and levels of care that address their specific needs. Our licensed, compassionate staff members are available to assist with daily tasks. We also offer a wide-range of services and amenities so our residents have the time and opportunity to enjoy the things that matter most.

Dining Services

Q. I like my own cooking. May I cook in my apartment?

A. The apartments at Exeter House (with the exception of the standard studios and apartments on the assisted living floors) are equipped with full kitchens. We offer flexible meal plans allowing you to choose which meals you would like to have in the dining room. Most residents find that the food is so good and the social atmosphere so pleasant, that they prefer to eat most of their meals in the dining room.

Q. What meals are offered in the dining room?

A. Breakfast, lunch and dinner – 7 days a week

Q. Is room service available?

A. Yes, room service is available at no charge if you are ill, or at any other time for a small fee.  

Q. Can I invite friends or family to a meal?

A. We encourage residents to invite guests for meals. You may have their meal charged to your account or pay for it at the front desk. We have a Private Dining Room available for larger groups.

Q. Can I arrange to have a special event catered in the Private Dining Room?

A. Yes, residents may, by contacting the Dining Services Director to discuss costs, menus, and service. Arrangements must be made at least two weeks in advance. Residents may also arrange to have special meals catered to their apartment.

Q. Can I have a “to go” lunch to take with me?

A. Yes, box lunches may be requested through the kitchen.

Q. Do you accommodate special diets?

A. Yes, doctor’s orders for special diets or food preferences should be discussed with the Dining Services Director.

Q. May I drink wine with dinner?

A. Wine is served in the main dining room on special occasions and for special events. Residents may bring their own alcoholic beverage or wine to the dining room to accompany their meal, but the dining room staff may not serve it.

About the Organization

Q. What is the business structure of Exeter House?

A. Exeter House is a non-profit Washington corporation IRC Sect. 501 (c)(3).

Q. Who owns Exeter House?

A. Presbyterian Retirement Communities Northwest (PRCN), which has been operating since 1963, owns and operates Exeter House and Park Shore. PRCN is a non-profit Washington corporation IRC Sect. 501 (c)(3).

Q. Do I have to be Presbyterian to live at Exeter House?

A. Exeter House welcomes people of all faiths and beliefs. Our residents have diverse backgrounds and religious affiliations. We have a full-time chaplain who conducts non-denominational Vespers services on Sundays. Inter-faith discussion groups and Bible studies are also offered. The chaplain is available for private consultations, prayers, discussions or spiritual guidance.

A representative from St. James Cathedral brings Holy Communion for Roman Catholics Tuesdays at 9 a.m.

The Rector of Trinity Episcopal Parish celebrates Holy Communion for Episcopalians on the 4th Tuesday of each month.

Q. What types of business licenses are held by Exeter House?

A. A General Business license for the State of Washington and a Boarding Home license for operating Assisted Living.

Our Employees

Q. What type of training is provided to staff members?

A. Exeter House offers both on-site and external educational opportunities, which challenge staff to remain current in their area of expertise. Staff working within the Assisted Living areas require additional training and may require certification or licenses to perform certain tasks. Exeter House supports the continuing education of its staff and provides educational assistance to employees who wish to further their education.

Q. What is the turnover of staff like?

A. It varies. Some of our employees have been here for 25 years or more. In some positions, we hire people who work at Exeter House on a seasonal basis, such as students working for the summer when school is out. Exeter House offers competitive wages, and benefits to help staff feel secure and be better able to cope with natural stresses in the work area. This security encourages longevity and a sense of belonging, as well as making Exeter House attractive to potential employees.

Staff members enjoy the friendly atmosphere and kindness of residents as well as the personal satisfaction of serving others.

Staff members must have a work history check completed, as well as a criminal history background check with the Washington State Patrol, in order to work at Exeter House. We maintain a policy of a drug and alcohol-free work environment, and require scheduled and random testing.

Resident Life

Q. What’s the average age of people living at Exeter House?

A. People range in age from 62 to 90+. We have a friendly group of residents. Some people are more out-going than others are but we are respectful of each other’s privacy as well.

We welcome anyone age 62 or older. It is extremely common that people feel they wish that they had moved in “sooner” because there are so many benefits of living at Exeter House.

Q. Are the Residents involved in the operation of Exeter House?

A. Yes, we are resident driven. There are eleven standing committees in the Residents’ Association, which cover all phases of life at Exeter House from social activities and dining services to maintenance and housekeeping. 

The Residents’ Association also has an elected representative in attendance at PRCN Board meetings.

Q. What is the Resident Council?

A. The Resident Council manages the business of the Residents’ Association and consists of elected officers as well as committee chairpersons for: Program Coalition, Religious Activities, Bulletin Board and Historian, Dining Services, Hospitality and Floor Representatives, Country Store Sales, Library, Health Care, Maintenance and Housekeeping, Nominating and Finance.

This Council meets monthly and works diligently to provide an avenue of information and cooperation between the residents and management, enhancing the enjoyment of retirement living at Exeter House.

Q. I am a private person. What’s it like living in a social community?

A. Exeter House is a small community where people reach out to one another and are aware of each other’s needs. While Exeter House offers many opportunities to socialize and participate in group activities, your privacy is respected and participation is voluntary.

Q. Can Exeter House residents have pets?

A. Yes. Small pets (birds, fish, cats) are welcome. Dogs are welcome to visit, but may not reside at Exeter House. A non-refundable pet deposit is required. Pets must be in good health, and pet owners must provide documentation of such. Exeter residents living with cats have even started a Cat Caucus to provide information about nearby sources for cat supplies, and can arrange delivery of supplies to Exeter. In addition, they coordinate shared-cost veterinary visits, and when needed, can supply interim care so your cat may stay home in your apartment while you are away.

Making the Move

Q. How do I know if it’s the right time to move?

A. Each person in a very personal sense will know when it is time to move. Many of our residents tell us they wish they had moved sooner. The best time to make a move is while your energy level is up to the challenge and your quality of life is such that you can enjoy all the Exeter has to offer. Perhaps you would enjoy talking with one of our current residents about their decision. Once you decide to make the move to Exeter House, our marketing staff will work closely with you to ensure the process goes smoothly.

Q. How do I fit all my belongings into my new home?

A. Given that most of our residents move to Exeter House from larger homes, it may not be possible to bring all your belongings with you. Many residents find that it is helpful to have a floor plan of their new apartment, which will allow them to decide what items to bring. Resources are available to help you plan your move from deciding what items to bring, to packing and moving, to unpacking and arranging your space. We also have contacts to help you sell your home, antiques and artwork.

Many residents choose to bring the items that have the most significant value to them. As one resident put it, “My goal was not to re-create my old residence, but to enhance the new atmosphere with photos, knick-knacks, keepsakes and potted plants.”

It is common for people to be seeking more space/square footage than what they actually require or need. Keep in mind that Exeter House has a number of community spaces for socializing, reading, entertaining, dining, places to exercise, and areas to enjoy a cup of coffee. Living at Exeter House provides residents with the ability to step outside their doors for instant access to companionship and activity.

Q. Is there a guest apartment at Exeter House?

A. Yes, Exeter House has guest apartments which are furnished like hotel rooms. Residents can make reservations for their guests with the receptionist at the front desk.

Q. Do I have control over the heating and cooling of my apartment?

A. Yes, there is a thermostat in each room for the heat, and individual air conditioning units with their own controls, in the windows (optional). Our windows are all screened. Exeter House provides air conditioners to residents with a south facing apartment at no extra charge.

Q. Is smoking allowed?

A. Exeter House is a non-smoking facility. Residents may smoke outside the building only.

Financial Security

Q. What happens if I outlive my savings?

A. We ask prospective residents to complete a financial application prior to admission. Based on the contract a resident chooses at the time of admission and based on the organization’s ability to supplement a person’s income, PRCN may provide financial assistance to a resident who, through no fault of their own, have outlived their savings.

Q. What is the PRCN Foundation?

A. The PRCN Foundation manages fundraising efforts for Exeter House supporting six different funds: the Resident Support Fund; Special Projects Fund; Community Outreach Fund; Employee Education Fund; Endowment Fund; and General Fund.

Application Process

Q. Do I have to tell anyone about my personal finances?

A. Yes. When you fill out the application we ask for your monthly income and assets to determine if you are financially eligible for admission.

This information is kept confidential and only Managers that review and approve admissions (Executive Director and/or Administrator, Director of Business Services and Marketing staff) have access to this information.

Exeter House does not share your personal information with any other organization or entity.

Q. Am I required to have a health exam before moving to Exeter House?

A. We ask that your primary care doctor complete a Physician’s Health Statement. 

Q. Do I have to sign a contract to move into Exeter House?

A. Yes. We have a month-to-month contract that requires 60 days notice if you should decide to move elsewhere. We will review the contract with you and are happy to answer any questions you may have.

Fees & Services

Q. Do I have to pay an entrance fee?

A. No. Exeter House offers a month-to-month rental plan. No entrance fee required.

Q. What are the monthly fees?

A. Monthly charges for each apartment and person are based on the size and amenities of the apartment selected as well as our actual costs for labor, utilities and food. These rates increase annually depending on the cost of doing business.

Q. What is included in the monthly fee?

A. One meal a day is included (we do serve all 3 meals and additional meals are available at the guest meal rate), utilities, weekly linen service, weekly housekeeping service, telephone service with local calls, emergency call system in the apartments, activities and events at Exeter House.

Q. Do I have to pay for utilities?

A. Utilities are included in the monthly service fees. Long distance phone service, however, is extra and will be billed to you on your monthly statement.

Q. Is cable TV included in the monthly service fee?

A. Basic cable is included in the monthly fee. Premium cable service such as HBO or Showtime may be purchased directly from the cable provider.

Q. What is included in the Housekeeping services?

A. Our residents receive weekly housekeeping services. We clean and disinfect the bathroom(s), empty trash, dust & vacuum, clean and polish windows and mirrors, wipe down fixtures, clean appliances as necessary.

Q. Do I need to bring my own bedding and towels?

A. Exeter House provides bed linens and towels once weekly at no additional charge. If you are accustomed to having decorative linens and towels, you may prefer to bring your own. If you use Exeter House’s linens and towels, your housekeeper will replace them on your regular housekeeping day.  If you bring your own bedding and towels, you may either launder them on your own or arrange for Exeter House staff to do this for you at an additional charge. Please note that we do not supply linens for extra-long or thick mattresses. 

Q. Is there storage available at Exeter House?

A. Yes, storage lockers are available for an extra charge.

Safety & Security

Q. What security is offered at Exeter House?

A. Exeter House has security cameras monitored by the Receptionist at the front desk. Visitors must ring the doorbell and be allowed in by the Receptionist. Residents have a key for the front door in addition to their individual apartment key.

Q. How will the building withstand an earthquake?

A. Our building is constructed of poured concrete. It has withstood earthquakes for more than 80 years. The earthquake of February 2001 caused only cosmetic damage, such as plaster cracks, and some broken fixtures, but no structural damage to the building.

Q. What type of fire system exists at Exeter House?

A. In 1998, Exeter House installed a fire safety sprinkler system and a new fire alarm panel was installed in 2002. Fire doors are on every floor throughout the building along with fire extinguishers and alarm pull stations. Exeter House plans to complete installation of a sprinkler system in the residential apartments within the next five years.

Activities & Fitness

Q. What activities are offered?

A. A wide variety of activities and entertainment is offered. Movies, bus trips, musical concerts, bridge games, billiards, literature and poetry groups, Bible studies and more! 

Q. Are there celebrations or special events at Exeter House?

A. Yes, we celebrate the holidays, along with Oktoberfest, Hawaiian Days and Western Day. You may want to bring appropriate attire for these occasions such as a Halloween costume, your Hawaiian, Western, or German clothes, and your favorite seasonal decorations.

Q. I’m interested in keeping active. What exercise programs are available?

A. Exeter House has a full spectrum of exercise programs including: flexibility, strength, balance and posture, chair aerobics, senior aerobics, Tai Chi, Yoga, and walking club.

Exeter House residents appreciate the personalized services of our Exercise Specialist, who can tailor a program that meets your specific needs, doctor recommendations and interests.   This service is available at no additional charge to our residents.

Q. Are there volunteer opportunities available at Exeter House?

A. Yes, there are numerous volunteer opportunities. Volunteers are needed for social events, administrative office work, health center visits, and chapel services. A number of residents volunteer within the community at the Public Library, hospitals, churches, museums and more.

Other

Q. Is Exeter House right for me?

A. Only you can decide. Call Carol Gordon, Marketing Director, at (206) 215-1398 to schedule a personal tour or contact us online.