The first step- joining the Priority List!
Joining the Priority List is the first step in applying to Kendal at Ithaca. It is recommended for anyone who is able to live independently and considering a move to a senior living community sometime in the future.
Becoming a Priority List member is easy and comes without obligation. To join, simply complete the online Priority Reservation Agreement and submit a $1,000 deposit. This deposit secures your place on the list based on the date it is received. The deposit is fully refundable with interest if you withdraw or applied toward your entry fee upon admission. Being on the Priority List is another way of saying you are now on the Kendal waiting list. We do not admit residents unless they are on the priority list. So, once you are on the priority list, you have made a reservation for potential future admission.
Priority List Members enjoy exclusive access to a variety of helpful resources through our Priority List Portal, designed to make your journey to the Kendal community as smooth and informed as possible. The portal provides information such as:
- Sample Contracts for your review, giving you a clear understanding of our agreements
- Detailed pricing information to help you plan with confidence
- Comprehensive insurance resources to assist in evaluating your own insurance
- A step-by-step admissions guide with all the necessary forms to get you started
- A digital room planner to help you envision your new home at Kendal
- Moving resources and new resident forms to simplify your transition
In addition to exclusive access to the portal, Priority List Members:
- Stay informed with Priority List newsletters, filled with updates and news about life in our vibrant community
- Are invited to on-site events where you can experience Kendal firsthand and connect with future neighbors
- Receive annual financial updates, including fee updates and disclosure statements, to help you stay in the know
- Enjoy access to our UniGuest App, giving you an inside look at the exciting activities and events happening around campus
Starting the Admission Process
Once you complete the Priority List application, you can move forward with Kendal’s admissions process. We recommend starting this process about two years before your desired move-in date. The order of admission is based on your priority number, and all applicants are considered without regard to race, color, national origin, creed, or sexual preference.
Three Key Areas
The next steps involve submitting documents for 3 key areas: Financial, Medical and Insurance. You will need to submit a completed financial data form, the prior 2 years of medical records, and proof of health insurance. You’ll also need to undergo a health screening exam through a third-party provider. The Health Screening exam charge is $100 per person. These steps ensure that applicants have the appropriate financially resources to commit to Kendal and that they can live independently in a cottage or apartment without endangering other residents or themselves. While completing these steps strengthens your application, there is no obligation to commit at this point.
Living Independently
Living independently means managing routine tasks such as taking medications, keeping appointments, and handling personal grooming. Cognitive or physical impairments can make these tasks more difficult. Signs of struggle might include frequent falls, missed appointments, difficulty following directions, or trouble with personal hygiene. If a couple is applying, it is important that both parties are able to live safely and independently.
Health and financial assessments remain valid for about a year and may require an update if they expire before a residence is available for your move-in.
In addition, residents must have Medicare Parts A and B, or equivalent coverage, along with a Medigap policy of at least Type A to meet Kendal’s contract requirements, as well as Part D or creditable prescription coverage. If your insurance does not meet the requirements, our insurance specialist will help you find the most cost-effective supplemental plan once you move in.
To complete these steps, simply visit the Priority List Portal for all the forms you’ll need. It’s your go-to resource for a smooth and straightforward process.