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18- Mind-Body Studio
Author: Adele Pepin
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16- Community Room
ENJOY A CONCERT IN OUR COMMUNITY ROOM
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REFRESH AND RELAX AT THE JUICE BAR
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10- Movie Theater
CATCH A NEW FLICK WITH FRIENDS IN OUR MOVIE THEATER
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06- Game Room
TAKE PART IN SOME FRIENDLY COMPETITION IN OUR GAME ROOM
It’s no secret that caring for ourselves is a crucial part of our well-being. Whether we’re focusing on our mental health, physical health, emotional health or spiritual health, these aspects all join together to ensure we’re healthy, happy and independent. As seniors age, this becomes more important than ever.
“Good health isn’t solely about nutrition and exercise, though many people think that’s the case,” says Devon Sicard, Executive Director at Waterstone at Wellesley, an independent living and assisted living community located in Wellesley, MA.
“In fact, many seniors in past years haven’t focused as heavily on self-care, opting instead for increasing their physical activity and enhancing their nutrition. While that’s certainly beneficial and a great place to start, there’s much more to it than that. Fortunately, among those who are rising to retirement age and considering a senior living community like Waterstone at Wellesley, we’re finding that self-care is a trend that’s increasing in popularity.”
This shift in focus paves the way for older adults to define their retirement, hone in on their health, and enhance senior care – even in ways they may have never thought possible before.
The Importance of Self-Care for Seniors
Why should you add self-care into your everyday care routine? To continue inspiring change and to propel the momentum of self-care among older adults, we’re breaking down the top reasons that it’s crucial for senior health.
It Lessens the Risk of Anxiety and Depression.
Self-care is often used as a tool to manage stressors while helping seniors maintain a sense of control. This has been found effective in:
- Reducing stress
- Increasing energy
- Boosting mood
- Enhancing happiness
- Improving connection
Self-Care Decreases Likelihood of Health Problems.
As if a reduction in stress, a boost of mood and enhanced energy weren’t enough, self-care may help lessen the chances of heart disease, stroke and even cancer.
It Helps Maintain Independence.
Perhaps the most important aspect of all: Self-care helps seniors maintain independence by helping to improve functional health. Everyone has a desire to preserve autonomy in their later years, especially as health needs begin to arise. By taking steps to enhance self-care, you are also taking steps to improve overall health and well-being, allowing for greater independence.
Shifting the Focus on Self-Care
For someone who may not have taken much time to ensure they were caring for themselves throughout the years, they might not know where to start. The good news is that the answer lies in our personal interests. Consider some of the ways older adults can enhance their self-care:
Create a Personal Schedule.
Routines can go a long way in ensuring you keep up with your self-care goals. Try to get up at the same time daily, eat a healthy and nutritious diet, exercise, and socialize with others. Then add in any of your other lifestyle goals, whether that may be to read, paint more, or even learn a new skill.
Try Mindful Exercises.
Yoga, tai chi, meditation, and Pilates are popular among seniors. This is because they are typically low impact yet enhance balance, clear the mind, and bring joy afterward.
Spend Time with Friends and Family.
Sometimes a little connection is all we need. While this may not seem like outright self-care, connecting with others and forming connections is a great way to enhance joy and health.
Consider Journaling.
If you once had a passion for writing, now is a good time to pick it back up again! Make a list of all the things you’re thankful for, chart out all the positive things of the day, or simply reflect on what worked for you and what didn’t after each day. It’s the perfect way to increase self-awareness and adjust your mindset for the future.
Participate in Activities That Cover All Levels of Wellness.
Though many spend time fostering their emotional, physical, social and intellectual health, it’s also important to manage environmental, financial, occupational and spiritual health. In addition to engaging with others, exercising, and seeking creative opportunities, you could:
- Enhance your environment by gardening
- Manage your financial resources for retirement
- Start a hobby you love or share your talents
- Find additional meaning through spiritual wellness
Waterstone at Wellesley: Providing the Self-Care Tools You Need to Live Well
Waterstone at Wellesley makes it simple for older adults to improve their health and wellness. Take a stroll alongside the Charles River that runs behind our community. Try a personal training session led by professional instructors. Go for a hole-in-one with friends on the putting green in our courtyard. Join an aquatics class in the indoor heated pool.
With specially designed wellness programs, personalized care services, dynamic social, cultural and educational events, and a carefree lifestyle, residents of Waterstone at Wellesley are surrounded by everything they need to live well.
NOW THIS IS HOME.
Located along the banks of the Charles River, Waterstone at Wellesley offers premier independent living and enriching assisted living. With luxurious amenities, gourmet dining and concierge-style services, Waterstone provides a senior living experience beyond expectations. To schedule your personal visit, contact us at 781.591.7113.
When active older adults consider their retirement, the goal is typically to have more freedom to do as they please – from spending more time with friends and family to enjoying a range of social activities and more. What some don’t think about, however, is how a move to a premier senior living community can help them reach that goal sooner – and with ease.
At Waterstone of Lexington, an independent living and assisted living community opening in fall of 2022, we’ve often heard seniors sharing a range of reasons why they put off a move to independent living. Some of these include:
- Waiting until they need support with activities of daily living
- Wanting to maintain their independence and freedom
- Thinking that senior living is for older people
- Having a preconceived notion that senior living is like a nursing home
While these feelings may be legitimate, they are also detrimental. In fact, these beliefs often keep active older adults from fully enjoying retirement while they’re younger, healthier and can truly take advantage of all the benefits, amenities and services that a community like Waterstone has to offer.
So, when is the right time for a person to make the move to senior living? While the answer may vary for everyone, the benefits of making a move sooner rather than later are significant.
Benefits of Moving to Independent Living Earlier
If you or a loved one have been considering a move to senior living, there’s truly no better time than now. A luxury retirement community like Waterstone of Lexington offers a wide range of benefits and advantages that provides more independence, more flexibility and more opportunities in daily life.
You Can Enjoy a Carefree Lifestyle.
Many independent living communities provide enriching services and amenities to make life worry-free – like housekeeping, maintenance and dining. This allows seniors to let go of these hassles and instead focus on what is most important to them.
At Waterstone of Lexington, we will offer a range of convenient services and premier amenities to enhance life and provide even more freedom:
- Weekly housekeeping
- Pet-friendly accommodations
- Five-star gourmet dining
- Concierge services
- Private underground parking
- Local transportation services
By waiting to enjoy a lifestyle where everything is taken care of for you, you’re missing out on the opportunity to savor more free time. Imagine summers without mowing and yard work, winters without shoveling, endless lists of household chores and the ability to enjoy a delicious dinner without prepping, cooking or cleaning up. For many older adults, independent living is a breath of fresh air!
You’ll Enjoy All the Community Has to Offer.
Senior living communities improve quality of life, decrease isolation and enhance fulfillment through a variety of enriching programs, social opportunities and events. Below are a few things you’ll be able to enjoy at Waterstone of Lexington:
- Creative art classes and workshops
- Concerts and lectures
- Outdoor activities like gardening and putting on the green
- Gathering with friends around the fire pit
- Movies in the theater
- Indulging in our full-service salon
By making a move as soon as possible, you’re securing the chance to enjoy all of these programs and events while you’re healthy and able to fully make the most of every opportunity that comes your way.
You Can Maintain Your Health and Wellness.
Enhancing quality of life doesn’t stop at services and amenities or programs and events! At Waterstone of Lexington, our comprehensive wellness services provide a range of ways seniors can stay active and fit through our:
- Fitness center and heated indoor pool staffed by professional trainers
- Mind-body studio and juice bar
- Outdoor walking paths
- Personalized training plans and group classes
- Physical therapy services
It’s never too soon to begin your journey to better health. However, starting as soon as possible can help you to maintain independence by enhancing balance, strength and flexibility. Senior living communities like Waterstone of Lexington provide all of this and more right in the cost of your rental agreement.
You’ll Have Peace of Mind for the Future.
Making a move and having a plan in case health needs change is part of what makes moving early so beneficial. With different living options available, Waterstone of Lexington makes it possible for you experience a lifestyle you love – but with the added peace of mind with a plan in place in the event health needs change. Waterstone of Lexington offers luxury independent living, supportive care services in assisted living and Bridges® by EPOCH memory care on campus.
Find Health, Happiness and Home
Once older adults discover all that independent living has to offer, they often wonder why they haven’t moved sooner. If you’re considering making a move, the team at Waterstone of Lexington would love to talk to you. Schedule a visit to learn more about our brand-new community and how we’re preparing to provide the retirement you have been waiting for!
EXPLORE LUXURY SENIOR LIVING
Waterstone of Lexington – opening fall 2022 – will offer a modern approach to retirement living in a historical setting with concierge-style services and impressive amenities. Come see how we redefine independent living and assisted living with a visit to our Welcome Center in Belmont.
For some older adults, the move to a senior living community such as Waterstone on High Ridge, offering independent living, assisted living and memory care, provides security and confidence for the future. These individuals prefer to make a move before a crisis occurs and their family members need to make decisions for them. They understand that today’s senior living communities are not the institutionalized facilities of the past – but rather are designed to enhance wellness and quality of life through convenient services, amenities and enriching lifestyle opportunities.
For others, however, the idea of senior housing may bring uncertainty or even frustration because they view it as a loss of independence, or they are simply resistant to change. They may be adamant about staying in their family home or may not realize how significantly changes in their health or mobility have affected their lifestyle and well-being.
We understand that starting the conversation about senior living with your aging loved one can be a difficult subject to broach. Unfortunately, many families wait too long to discuss the subject because they’re unsure of how their loved one will react. The reality is that having the conversation early and making a move before it’s truly necessary can actually help to relieve future anxiety.
Use our expert tips below to help make the conversation with your aging parent go smoother – and help them transition to a carefree senior living lifestyle.
Does My Parent Really Need Senior Living?
It’s common for aging parents to tell their adult children that moving to assisted living or other senior living community isn’t necessary. Before you have the conversation, try to observe your loved one throughout their daily routine. If you notice any of the following concerns, take note as it may help you to explain your position and provide positive encouragement during the discussion.
- They need support with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing or grooming
- Access to health care would provide greater peace of mind
- They are overwhelmed taking care of a large home
- Forgetfulness is becoming more frequent
- Attention to proper hygiene and/or nutrition is lacking
- Your loved one is recovering from an accident, surgery or illness, and short-term care needs have become long-term
- They seem to be showing more signs of isolation and loneliness
Educate Yourself to Educate Your Loved One
Many seniors may be holding on to the perception that senior living communities are like the nursing homes of the past. Today, senior living options have changed radically, offering a range of social opportunities, engaging programs, supportive care when needed, and delicious meals akin to the finest restaurants. It’s possible their preconceived notions may be what is keeping them from a lifestyle they’ll love.
The more you know about senior living, the better you’ll be able to help guide them on their journey. Before you introduce the conversation with your loved one, start by talking to team members at local communities. Ask questions about service offerings. Take a tour of the apartments. Check out the activities, programs and events. At Waterstone on High Ridge, our Senior Advisors are always ready to share tips and advice to make the conversation easier and provide resources to help your individual situation.
Starting the Conversation
Set the Stage
One of the most important things to consider when bringing up senior living is when should you? At Waterstone on High Ridge, we believe that answer is as early as possible. This extra time ensures you can plan accordingly, tour a range of communities, and make the right choice for your loved one. Otherwise, the decision may be rushed if a sudden health issue occurs.
The best place to begin the conversation about senior living may be different for everyone, but it’s likely a good idea to chat in a private, quiet place that is free of distractions. Make sure your loved one is in a good mood and seems open to talking with you – if they are not, it might be better to choose another day, so the conversation flows more easily.
Remain Calm and Patient
Aside from being emotionally charged, the conversation can also be a bit intimidating for an adult child to bring up the subject of senior living. While you may not know how the conversation will go, it will help to focus on being empathetic and respectful. Be sure to use positive language and a pleasant tone when you are speaking about senior living.
You may want to begin by asking your loved one if they are feeling safe and happy at home, or if they feel overwhelmed by the daily upkeep and maintenance. Ask whether they are feeling engaged at home – or if they sometimes feel lonely. Identify the “what-if” scenarios to determine if they have a plan in mind related to health changes. Find out their perceptions about senior living.
Take time to think about their answers and respond thoughtfully. Remember to make it a two-way conversation. Gently share your concerns and thoughts, but make sure you’re attentively listening to theirs as well.
Make It an Ongoing Conversation
Keep in mind that the conversation may be an evolving process and likely won’t be a once-and-done discussion. Let your loved one know that you don’t expect to make any immediate decisions, but you want to understand their thoughts and plans related to the future so that you can come to an agreement that both honors their wishes – and safely supports their needs.
Explore Senior Living Options Together
If your aging loved one is open to it, we highly suggest taking them to a senior living community to enjoy a tour, participate in programs, and get a taste of the dining experience for themselves. They may find that a senior living community like Waterstone on High Ridge is exactly the kind of place they’d love to be – making the process smoother while bringing you both peace of mind.
HOME THE WAY YOU LIKE IT. SUPPORT WHEN YOU NEED IT.
Waterstone on High Ridge offers a modern approach to senior living in a beautiful hilltop setting. Come see how we redefine independent living, assisted living and memory care in Fairfield County, just minutes away from fine restaurants, retail stores and cultural venues in Stamford and Greenwich.
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Top Benefits of Independent Living
For active seniors looking for a carefree environment, an independent living community provides the life-enriching amenities and convenient services needed to help them live life to the fullest. Premier senior living communities like Waterstone of Westchester offer the perfect setting for an exciting, wellness-focused lifestyle – complete with fun activities, socializing with friends and exploring new interests. All of this without the hassles that come along with homeownership.
Are you in the search for a retirement community that fits your lifestyle and preferences? Keep reading to explore some of the greatest benefits that independent living has to offer, including why retiring in White Plains, NY might be the move for you.
Top Benefits of Senior Independent Living
1. Maintenance-Free
Home maintenance is no longer a worry for seniors who reside in a senior living community. The outside of your new home is well-maintained by the team at your retirement community – from snow and leaf removal to mowing grass and pruning trees. Within your luxury independent living apartment, you never have to worry about broken appliances or a leaky faucet. We’ve got you covered. Plus, many senior living communities like Waterstone of Westchester offer regular housekeeping services to help your home continue to look its best.
2. Simplified Finances
You can say goodbye to keeping track of household bills if you move into an independent living community. At Waterstone of Westchester, your monthly fee covers utilities, weekly housekeeping, gourmet meals, access to the fitness center and indoor pool – as well as all other community programs, events and five-star amenities and services.
3. Nutrition
High-quality, forward-thinking senior living dining programs are on the rise in the United States. Communities like Waterstone of Westchester offer an exquisite culinary experience, featuring freshly prepared, seasonal selections served with impeccable hospitality within our multiple dining venues. For those with special dietary needs, accommodations can be made by the chef.
4. Physical Fitness
It is common knowledge that physical health and fitness are key components to living a happy life. Physical fitness is often a focus for independent senior living communities, offering activities such as tai chi, walking clubs, yoga, stretching, strength training and more. At Waterstone of Westchester, wellness is our cornerstone. We offer a state-of-the-art fitness center, heated indoor pool and a mind-body studio staffed by personal trainers.
5. Scheduled Activities
Independent living communities are designed to provide an enriching lifestyle full of opportunities that appeal to a variety of interests. At Waterstone of Westchester, there is something for everyone – from lifelong learning and art classes to chef demonstrations and cultural programs. We also plan trips to local attractions and fun destinations.
6. Socialization
Whether it is scheduled games, book clubs or social hours, independent living offers the ideal setting and a wide range of opportunities to engage and connect with friends. Within a senior living community, new friendships wait just outside your door. Explore a new hobby. Take a yoga class. Go shopping with a friend. Enjoy a gourmet meal in the dining room. Join the conversation by the fire pit. It all awaits you at a luxury senior living community like Waterstone of Westchester.
7. Safety and Security
Not only does a senior living community provide you with security in terms of a plan for the future, but it also provides a range of other benefits such as 24-hour concierge services and safety measures throughout the community.
Waterstone of Westchester. Now This Is Home.
Waterstone of Westchester is a brand-new, premier independent living community in White Plains, NY. We’re close to exquisite shopping, fine dining and cultural attractions. Come visit our beautiful location and see how Waterstone puts wellness at the heart of our community.
Moving to assisted living in a senior living community can be a daunting process, especially if your parents have lived in their home for many years. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to streamline the transition to assisted living.
Once you and your loved one have decided it is the right time, there are several steps that you should take to prepare for a move to assisted living. Our tips below will cover the period leading up to the move and ways to help your loved one settle comfortably into their new home.
How To Prepare for the Move
1. Find a community that fits your loved one’s needs.
First, think about your loved one’s lifestyle, preferences and needs. Consider which amenities and services might be most important for your loved one – and which you might not need in a community. To avoid having to make a rushed decision due to a crisis or situation that requires an immediate move, start the process as early as possible. It’s never too early to start considering your options.
2. Visit communities to see them in person.
The best way to get to know a community is to visit it in person. It gives you a wonderful opportunity to meet the team – and even the current residents – to get firsthand insight into the lifestyle, care and services. Often, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a meal in the dining room or attend an event on campus. This will help you gauge what community will best fit with your loved one’s personality, interests and needs.
3. Prioritize as you help your loved one pack.
You don’t have to pack everything right away; prioritize the most important items first. You can organize the process by creating lists, such as items your loved one wants to take along to their new home or those to be passed down as a family heirloom. Another good tip is to start in one room – and then move on to the next. Focus on creating a plan for the bigger items first, and then work on putting smaller items into keep, donate or throw away piles. Try to break the process into simple, smaller tasks.
4. Take time to consider logistics.
If your loved one will be living in a new community, make a list of tasks to be completed such as canceling ongoing utilities and forwarding mail to their new community address from the postal service. Remember to update their new address with medical offices, insurance, financial institutions and social security. The community where your loved one is moving can also be a great resource to help you with these logistical items.
5. Give your loved one time to adjust emotionally.
The transition to a senior living community can bring up a range of emotions for a senior loved one, especially when leaving a long-time family home. These feelings are completely normal when preparing to move to a new home. One of the best ways to overcome fears is to talk about them. Encourage your loved one to talk to family members and friends about the positives that come along with a move.
6. Give your loved ones a hand as they set up their new space.
Getting your loved ones used to their new living space is the best way to help them feel comfortable. Help them arrange their furniture and decorations in a way that they like. Finding the right place to display items that can make your loved ones feel at home.
Tips for the First Week in Senior Living
1. Encourage your loved one to meet their neighbors.
Your loved one will likely become good friends with their new neighbors, and you should encourage them to introduce themselves. At Waterstone at Wellesley, a Welcoming Committee is assigned to help residents adjust to community life. Ask if the community offers a similar program to support new residents.
2. Encourage your loved one to get to know the team.
One of the best ways for new residents to feel more at home is to get to know the team members who are there to support and care for them. Among the people your loved one will meet are the management team, nurses, dining staff, maintenance providers, the life enrichment team, and fitness instructors. Tell your loved one not to be afraid to ask any questions they may have about the community’s services – at any time. It is the job of the entire team to make your loved one feel comfortable.
3. Be sure to spend time with your loved one.
The first few weeks in the community are particularly crucial. Aim to visit your loved one regularly, if possible, to help encourage a smooth and healthy transition into the community. Your loved one will appreciate the support and knowledge that you are there for them. If you can’t visit, talk with the community team about regular calls, video chats or other ways you can support your loved one with the move from a distance.
4. Promote participation in community events.
Check out the social calendar for the community and find ways to get your loved one interested in attending the various social, cultural and educational events. Learning about the available amenities and getting to know other residents is a great way to start off. Encourage your loved one to start with activities they are sure to like – and then branch out from there. They may just discover a new favorite hobby!
Waterstone at Wellesley. Now This Is Home.
Waterstone at Wellesley offers independent living and assisted living options in beautiful Wellesley, along the banks of the Charles River.