Author: Adele Pepin

The Connection Between Brain Health and Healthy Aging

Post author By Adele Pepin
Post date August 31, 2021

Our brains are amazing organs: available to hold our feelings, emotions, memories and so much more. It’s no surprise, then, that research is continuing to discover how our brains are linked to our overall health – and how keeping our brains “young” can help us age well, too.

The brain-body connection has long been talked about, but it’s only recently that we’re starting to gain actual, quantifiable information that validates this hypothesis. As we learn more about this connection, we’re uncovering ways to help make the aging process as beneficial to older adults as possible.

This involves finding ways to help reduce the risk of dementia and other cognitive diseases.

According to guidelines set forth by the World Health Organization, paying particular attention to the brain and body link may help slow or delay the onset of dementias like Alzheimer’s disease. The key is to pay attention to the aspects of health you can control, avoiding unhealthy triggers and providing the best possible environment for optimal body and brain health.

Physical health results in brain health.

We all know what needs to happen in order for us to stay physically healthy (even if we don’t necessarily do it): eat a healthy diet, get enough exercise and find purposeful and meaningful activities.

Let’s start with the healthy diet and lifestyle aspect: Eating right and getting enough exercise results in a healthy cardiovascular system, which means you’re less susceptible to diseases like diabetes, strokes, heart diseases and hypertension. Why is this important with regards to brain health? Because our brains rely on a healthy, consistent flow of blood to nourish them. When health issues arise that cause hiccups in this flow, it can lead to damaged or dead brain cells. It stands to reason, then, that maintaining a heart-healthy routine results in a brain-healthy routine.

Experts generally recommend that adults partake in a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats like avocados and olive oil, and antioxidant-rich foods like berries. The other side of the equation is staying physically active, which helps keep your heart in tip-top shape. Getting regular exercise (the CDC recommends approximately 30 minutes a day, 5 times a week) and maintaining a healthy weight are both excellent ways to help improve your brain health while reducing your risk of diseases like dementia.

Brain exercise is important as well.

Your brain is an organ, but it’s also a muscle in its own way. It’s essential to “flex” your brain cells in order to make sure your cognitive function is operating at its peak. Doing so helps your body generate new brain cells as well as new connections between neurons. It all results in neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s ability to adapt, shift and flex as issues arise. Forget the saying that “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” Research shows that learning is possible throughout your whole life – eand is even accessible in individuals with dementia.

Exercising your brain doesn’t mean you have to do advanced math or learn a completely new language. Instead, it simply means that older adults should seek opportunities to learn new things, pursue favorite habits and stay socially active (among other things). Anything that gets your brain firing is a good thing, so look for opportunities that are interesting and challenging to you individually.

Get a good night’s sleep.

When it comes to brain and body health, we often forget about the benefits of sleep. As it turns out, getting a good night’s sleep is more essential to overall health than you might have previously thought. Think of it as a “reset” function. Current research shows that a good night’s sleep helps clear brains of toxins, including beta-amyloids. These are proteins that have been shown to connect to dementia development as well as cognitive decline.

Sleeping well can get more challenging as we get older, which is why it’s more essential than ever to focus on maintaining good sleep hygiene. This includes things like:

Making sure your bedroom is comfortable: Keep the room at a comfortable temperature and make sure that light and sound are suitably buffered. You may wish to consider investing in blackout curtains and a good white noise machine.
Clear the area of distractions: Yes, that means removing television and other screens from the bedroom. Make sure that your sleep area is dedicated to sleep. Having this level of calm will help your body more easily adapt to the idea of “sleep” and “rest.”
Create a calming bedtime routine. Start developing a routine in the evening that signals calm and sleep to your body. This can be reading a few chapters of a book, taking a warm bath or meditating. Whatever works to get your mind and body in a good place is worth investing in.

A healthy brain means a healthy body which means a healthy aging process. The good news is that, no matter how young or old we are, there are things we can start doing now to improve our brain and physical health immediately, setting us up for success for the future.

Reserve Your Apartment Today!

We look forward to introducing you to the definitive, distinctive lifestyle at Waterstone of Lexington and welcoming you as one of the first residents of our new community. For more information, please call 781.728.3037 and discover how you can help shape the future of our premier rental community for seniors 62 and over.

Welcome Home to Waterstone of Lexington. Opening Late Summer 2022.

For seniors in Middlesex County who desire a carefree lifestyle, we welcome you to Waterstone of Lexington. The mid-century style of this dynamic community was inspired by the nearby Gropius House and the area’s tradition of innovative, modern architecture. In this classic, beautiful new community, you’ll be inspired by all the amenities and programs to take up a new hobby, exercise in our fitness center and indoor pool, and make new friends while dining and enjoying social events.

Offering independent living and assisted living, Waterstone of Lexington provides myriad ways for seniors 62+ to enjoy their retirement to the fullest. Bridges® by EPOCH at Lexington, a dedicated memory care assisted living community, is also conveniently located across the street from us.

Step inside Waterstone of Lexington and experience the calming yet engaging atmosphere that our talented architects and designers have so beautifully crafted. Waterstone of Lexington is filled with energizing and convenient amenities such as an indoor pool, fitness center, salon, underground parking and more. Then, enjoy your elegant living space – a large, sunlit apartment complete with a full-size designer kitchen, well-appointed bathroom, walk-in closet and more.

Our rental apartment community means no steep entrance fees, providing greater financial flexibility. Everything at Waterstone of Lexington was all created with you in mind, where our attentive team members, extensive programs and luxury amenities give you the ability to make life your own – how you like it.

Welcome to Waterstone of Lexington. Join the experience of what life is like at this premier senior living community by calling 781.728.3037.

Tags Aging, Brain Health, Waterstone of Lexington

The Circle

How To Live Your Best Life in Senior Living

Post author By Adele Pepin
Post date August 27, 2021

senior couple standing in front of a scenic canal laughing and holding each other

Today, seniors – who can be as young as 55 – are redefining what this life stage means in a big, big way. Unlike in the past, when “retiring” and being a “senior” sometimes meant living life in quiet seclusion, older adults are ready to embrace this stage of life to the fullest. No doubt you’ve heard of seniors who are starting new businesses, charting new careers, reinventing themselves and otherwise making the young’uns jealous of their freedom, excitement and sense of adventure.

“Retirement is an exciting time of life, and moving into senior living is a great way for older adults to jump-start those adventures,” says Kevin Defayette, Executive Director of Waterstone at the Circle. “Today’s communities are like resorts in a sense: they’re all-inclusive and maintenance-free, giving residents all the time in the world to enjoy their lives to the fullest.”

Kevin explains that today’s senior living experience has been designed to help seniors age well and be well, no matter how old or young they are. “Communities such as Waterstone at the Circle are designed to help older adults embrace every opportunity,” Kevin says. “There’s no reason you should have to slow down once you reach a certain age. At our community, we provide the framework to make sure that our residents enjoy a lifestyle that’s productive, pleasant and fulfilled.”

Choose a home that’s a good fit.

If you’re considering living your best life in senior living, the first step is to choose a home that is the best fit for you and your lifestyle. In order to do that, take some time to think about what’s important to you. What sort of lifestyle would make you happy? What needs and wants do you have in your home? What can’t you live without, and what can you live without? Once you have your list in place, you’ll be able to research options in your desired area and pinpoint what locations would suit you best.

Get involved in activities that excite you.

Once you’ve chosen a community and moved in, the next big step is to get involved in daily life. Life in your new community should not be boring – instead, you should be more involved and engaged than ever before – if you want to be. One of the best ways to get settled into your new lifestyle is by finding activities, hobbies and events that excite you. Learn a new language, join an exercise group, start a book club, take nature walks or do whatever else is enjoyable for you. This is your chance to connect with other individuals with the same interests who are looking for new friends.

Make a community within the community.

Socialization is vital for a healthy life for older adults. When children move away and friends move or pass on, it can become pretty isolating. Loneliness can result in depression, anxiety and other illnesses. Moving into senior living gives older adults the opportunity to create a community of caring friends with whom you can participate in activities and build meaningful friendships.

Find new hobbies.

Is there something you’ve always wanted to learn how to do but have never had the chance to pursue? Moving into senior living gives you the time and space to explore those interests that were not feasible before. Take some time to look at your community’s events calendar and look for things that interest you. Try something that interests you or sounds completely foreign. The best part is that you don’t have to continue with it if you don’t like it! You can keep looking for new hobbies that excite you – and perhaps even start your own group.

Pick up old favorites.

Many of us have interests that have fallen by the wayside. Senior living allows us to pursue those interests and pick up favorite activities that have long been forgotten. Did you enjoy playing the piano when you were younger? Maybe you were fluent in French and always wanted to visit Paris. Or perhaps knitting was something that brought you together with other individuals in your family. Senior living gives you the chance to pick up those long-forgotten hobbies and make them part of your everyday life.

Volunteer.

Many seniors choose to dedicate time in retirement to causes and organizations in which they believe. These causes span the gamut from being a mentor to students, caring for animals at the humane society, becoming a consultant for new businesses, joining a Foster Grandparent program or anything else that moves and fulfills you. Moving into senior living helps you pursue this passion due to the all-inclusive nature of life and the maintenance-free lifestyle.

“This can be the best phase of your life to date,” Kevin explains. “You still have energy, the funds and the drive to do the things that move you, without any of the tedious responsibilities of work and family. Moving into a community like Waterstone at the Circle is a great way to jump-start this new chapter of life. What are you waiting for?”

Luxury Senior Living in Boston

Waterstone at the Circle, located in Boston’s historic Cleveland Circle neighborhood, is more than just independent living in Boston … it’s a sophisticated urban setting for today’s active seniors. Enjoy best-in-class service and an urban lifestyle with arts, cultural and historical attractions right outside your front door. From high-end amenities to gourmet dining and more, experience the best of city and suburban life at our upscale senior living community located on the crossroads of Brookline and Chestnut Hill.

Elegant Independent Living Apartments

Each of our 92 independent living apartments is the height of luxury and modernity, with sophisticated design, upscale features and stunning views of the city. Create the urban senior living experience you want with one- or two-bedroom apartments, a variety of floor plans and monthly rentals.

Senior Living Supportive Services

As an over-62 community, residents may require support from time to time. That’s why we’ve developed an on-site coordinated care program, in cooperation with our premier community partners, that allows our independent living residents to receive the assistance they need.

The best part? Residents don’t have to leave our senior living community – or even their apartment – to receive high-quality support. They can receive the services they need, when they need them, in the comfort of their own homes or in our on-site therapy gym.

Waterstone at the Circle is the opposite of retiring . . . it’s a place to enhance your active, on-the-go lifestyle. Call 617.431.1880 for more information or to schedule a visit to our premier Boston independent living community and discover The Circle lifestyle today!

Tags Senior Living, Waterstone at the Circle

High Ridge

Healthy Hobbies That Help You Age Well

Post author By Adele Pepin
Post date August 26, 2021

senior couple enjoying a bike ride through a park together

As we get older, it’s not uncommon to find more time on your hands … maybe a lot of time. If you’ve filled your years raising a family or growing your career (or both), retirement can be a much-looked-forward-to relief. But it also means that you may suddenly struggle with how to fill your waking hours.

“Having a hobby or two – or more – is a great way for older adults to stay active and find purpose in retirement,” says Wendy Kaufman, Executive Director of Waterstone on High Ridge. “Not only do hobbies help chase away boredom, but they also provide many health benefits that can help adults thrive in their senior years.”

While some seniors may fill their time with home maintenance, chores and running a home, these tasks can get tedious and tiring. Frankly, wouldn’t you rather be doing something more enjoyable and productive in your retirement?

“Moving into a retirement community like Waterstone on High Ridge provides you with a carefree, maintenance-free lifestyle, which gives you the opportunity to explore all sorts of healthy hobbies in your retirement years,” says Wendy. “It’s a great way for older adults to seek out new opportunities while also having peace of mind as they get older.”

Why Are Healthy Hobbies?

When you think of the word “hobby,” you may think of anything ranging from knitting to skiing and beyond. If your hobbies are of the less-active variety, you may wonder how they can be healthy. As it turns out, healthy hobbies don’t require you to work up a sweat physically. Simply doing something that challenges your brain, ignites your curiosity or boosts your creativity provides various health benefits for your mental, emotional and social health.

Not only that, but hobbies are fun and enjoyable. And retirement is the perfect opportunity to pick up a hobby that has fallen by the wayside or start something new that you’ve always wanted to try. Here are seven hobbies that provide not just entertainment but health benefits as well:

Sports and fitness

Staying physically active is incredibly important for older adults. It’s recommended that seniors (and adults in general) get approximately 150 minutes of moderate exercise every week. This translates to 30 minutes a day, five times a week. A great way to get that exercise in is by finding a hobby that gets you out and about. There are many different sports and fitness activities that are great for older adults. Here are just a handful:

Swimming
Golf
Yoga
Hiking
Cycling
Fitness classes

Staying physically active is a boost not just to your physical well-being but also your mental health. Many sports activities are also social events, especially if you join a club or group dedicated to your hobby. The trick is, as with anything, to find something that you enjoy and look forward to doing.

Gardening

Gardening is a wonderful hobby. In fact, it’s the number one hobby in the United States, and its popularity only increased during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you’ve ever experienced the satisfaction of planting something and watching it flourish, you can understand why it’s such a popular hobby. Besides the satisfaction you gain, there are plenty of mental and physical benefits of playing in the dirt, such as reducing stress, providing a source of physical activity, giving a sense of accomplishment and more. If you’ve always wanted to try gardening but have somewhat of a black thumb, consider starting out slow by purchasing potted plants or herbs.

Gaming

Have you ever heard of the silver gamer? It turns out that gaming isn’t something just for teenagers anymore. In fact, more adults 55 and older are playing video games now than ever before. It helps that games are ubiquitous these days, readily available on your smartphone, tablet or gaming console. Besides providing entertainment, gaming these days often gives older individuals the chance to socialize. Many popular games allow you to play against other individuals, whether they’re next to you or across the globe. Multiplayer games will develop a community of their own, and many people have found lifelong friends (and in some cases, spouses and significant others). Playing games helps seniors stay connected, boost brain function and provide creative problem-solving opportunities.

Cooking

Cooking and baking are some of the oldest hobbies in the world. After all, everyone needs to eat, and cooking a wonderful meal provides a sense of accomplishment like nothing else. Cooking can be an excellent hobby that teaches new techniques and introduces you to new cuisines. It’s also a great way to make sure you and your loved ones are eating a healthy, fresh, nutritious diet that helps you feel and look great.

Puzzles

Puzzles are one of the most enjoyable and stimulating hobbies. From jigsaw to word to mental to logic to a variety of other topics, puzzles are prolific and a fantastic way for older adults to keep their brains active and sharp. One of the best things about puzzles is that you don’t have to accomplish everything in one sitting. You can do a little here and there, and come and go as you please. This means that the enjoyment can stretch out for days – even weeks. Look for puzzles that align with your unique interests for a hobby that will keep you returning to them again and again.

Reading

Who doesn’t love curling up with an intriguing book? This traditional but timely hobby is a great hobby for anyone of any age. These days, getting a good book is easier than ever, thanks to Amazon and e-book lending services like OverDrive or Libby. Grab yourself an e-reader (or download an app to your smartphone or tablet), and you can have hundreds of titles at your fingertips. (Don’t forget to ask us about the Book Club at Waterstone on High Ridge!)

Playing an instrument

Did you ever dream of learning to play the guitar or the drums? At some point, most of us imagined becoming a rock or pop star. Although you may be past the point of selling out stadiums, music is an excellent hobby that can be picked up no matter how old or young you are. Learning a new instrument (or, similarly, a new language) challenges the brain in various ways, which can help battle against cognitive decline and dementia. Playing an instrument also helps with hand-eye coordination, problem-solving and a slew of other benefits.

Retirement is a wonderful time of life to discover new passions and pick up old ones. Besides the enjoyment, you’ll reap a variety of health benefits that will allow you to continue your learning, loving and new lifestyle for years to come.

Welcome Home to Waterstone!

We look forward to introducing you to the definitive, distinctive lifestyle at Waterstone on High Ridge and welcoming you as one of the first residents of our community. For more information, please call 203.361.9717 and discover how you can help shape the future of our premier rental community for seniors 62 and over.

The Height of Senior Living: Opening Early 2022

Discerning seniors in Fairfield County who desire a luxurious retirement lifestyle will find exactly what they’ve been seeking at Waterstone on High Ridge.

Located on a beautifully landscaped hill above High Ridge Road, Waterstone on High Ridge is an experience like no other. You’ll live on a verdant campus neighboring quiet conservation land, with easy access to the shopping, dining and cultural opportunities in nearby downtown Stamford, CT. Once you step into our sophisticated, approachable common areas brimming with extensive amenities, attentive team members, engaging programming and thoughtful care, you’ll know that Waterstone on High Ridge is the place to call home.

Offering independent living, assisted living and memory care, Waterstone on High Ridge provides myriad ways for seniors 62+ to enjoy their retirement to the fullest. In this classic, beautiful new community, you’ll be inspired by all the amenities and programs to take up a new hobby, exercise in our fitness center and indoor pool, and make new friends while dining and enjoying social events.

Waterstone on High Ridge is filled with energizing and convenient amenities such as an indoor pool, fitness center, salon, parking and more. Enjoy your elegant living space – a large, sunlit apartment complete with a full-size designer kitchen, well-appointed bathroom, walk-in closet and more.

Our rental apartment community means no steep entrance fees, providing greater financial flexibility. Everything at Waterstone on High Ridge was created with you in mind, where our attentive team members, extensive programs and luxury amenities give you the ability to make life your own– how you like it.

Welcome to Waterstone on High Ridge. Welcome home! Join the experience of what life is like at this premier senior living community by calling 203.361.9717.

Tags Hobbies, Seniors, Waterstone on High Ridge

High Ridge

Be a Tourist in Your Town: Things to Explore in Stamford, CT

Post author By Adele Pepin
Post date August 16, 2021

senior woman enjoying a strawberry ice-cream cone on the beach — Senior woman eating an ice-cream

In a city as diverse, lively and energetic as Stamford, CT, there’s always something to do, especially during the summer months.

“There’s never a dull moment in our town,” says Wendy Kaufman, Executive Director of Waterstone on High Ridge. “Every day, you’ll find a new adventure, whether that’s walking along our 19 miles of shoreline, hiking the scenic trails of one of our many parks, or finding a new favorite dining location downtown.”

The thriving community and unique location in the heart of Fairfield County are just a few of the many reasons it was chosen as the site for Waterstone on High Ridge, a brand-new, premier rental retirement community opening in early 2022.

“We wanted to provide a location and environment where Stamford-area seniors could live a carefree, adventurous lifestyle in the city they love,” says Kaufman. “Our community is being built on a beautiful hillside close to retail stores, restaurants and cultural venues. We’re just minutes from Greenwich, New Canaan and Darien villages and boutiques. Residents will be able to easily get anywhere they want to go – whether they use their own transportation or the community’s services. Our Waterstone on High Ridge location offers the perfect blend of activity, convenience and accessibility to local attractions.”

To see for yourself how great the location is, we recommend “being a tourist in your own town” this summer. We’ve put together some of Stamford’s top locations and destinations, all located conveniently near Waterstone on High Ridge. Find your new favorite spot or see what life could look like in our new community.

Stamford Museum & Nature Center

Resting on 118 acres in the woodland of North Stamford, the Stamford Museum & Nature Center mixes art with nature, history and agricultural sciences. Start your visit at the Bendel Mansion (once the summer home of department store founder Henri Willis Bendel). Here you’ll find galleries featuring contemporary art exhibitions, antique farming equipment, totem poles, vintage pedal cars and works from both world-famous artists, such as Warhol and Dalí, and prominent local artists. Outside, you’ll discover a beautiful sculpture collection and the 10-acre Heckscher Farm, a working farm with various heritage breeds and nonindigenous species like alpacas, burros and llamas. Overbrook Nature Center has interactive wildlife exhibits and more than 80 acres of parkland connected by hiking and walking trails. Be sure to pay a visit to the Edith & Robert Graham Otter Pond, where you can watch North American river otters playing up close.

Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens

Sometimes called a “living classroom,” the Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens is an enchanting environment for people of all ages to explore, enjoy, and learn about the habitats of the natural world. Visitors can enjoy more than 3,500 specimens from across the globe planted in 12 different gardens, each with its own specific focus. For example, the Alice Smith Fern Allée contains more than 60 kinds of fern, while the Frank Bartlett Heisinger Conifer Garden is focused on – you guessed it – conifers. Walk miles of trails that will take you through beautiful gardens, past champion trees, and into native Connecticut habitats alongside colonial stone walls and over pristine wetlands. Check out their robust events calendar – with everything from classical and rock concerts to tours and family events, there’s always something planned that can connect visitors to nature and the community.

Cove Island Park

The park has it all – walking and running trails, a playground, sandy beaches, a small salt marsh – you name it, you can enjoy it at Cove Island Park. Cove Island was originally the site of a 19^th-century factory manufacturing bleached minerals, dye extracts and licorice. The mill was razed by a fire in 1919, and over the next few decades, it was developed into one of the area’s most well-loved parks. It’s specifically known for fishing and birding opportunities: anglers can cast their lines along the rocky shorelines, while birders can spot feathered wonders at Cove River and Holly Pond. The park is listed as an Important Bird Area by the National Audubon Society, with more than 287 species recorded.

Philip Johnson Glass House

The Glass House was built between 1949 and 1995 by architect Philip Johnson in New Canaan, CT and is one of the nation’s most significant modern architectural landmarks. It’s located just a short drive away from Stamford proper in New Canaan and is definitely worth the trip. Inspired by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe’s Farnsworth House, the Glass House’s exterior walls are made of glass with no interior walls. The 49-acre property boasts a variety of structures, including the Glass House, the Guest House, Pavilion in the Pond, Painting Gallery, Ghost House, Studio and Da Monsta. The grounds feature a permanent collection of renowned 20^th-century paintings and sculptures, along with temporary exhibitions.

First Presbyterian Church

This gorgeous masterpiece of Modernist architecture was designed by Wallace Harrison, an architect who took part in the construction of the Rockefeller Center. The First Presbyterian Church, also called the Fish Church due to its evocative outline, was built in 1958. Inside, the stained-glass windows feature a magnificent 20,000 pieces of faceted glass, depicting the crucifixion and resurrection. Situated in front of the grand Visser-Rowland pipe organ sits a wooden cross that is just under 10 meters tall and clad with wood from Canterbury Cathedral in England.

Fort Stamford Park

Fort Stamford Park contains the 340-year-old earthworks of an American fort from the Revolutionary War. The Goodbody Garden also is on the property and features a stone-pillared pergola, sunken garden and Italianate balustrades. It’s a great place to spend a day learning about the area’s history and enjoying the gorgeous gardens. Be sure to take a trip to the Revolutionary-era tree that still stands to the west of the formal gardens – it’s now more than 250 years old.

West Beach

West Beach is a favorite place to spend a pleasant summer day. You’ll discover 26 acres of clean, pale sand, a children’s playground, bathrooms and on-duty lifeguards (during peak times in summer). Best of all, the beach is located within walking distance of restaurants on Shippan Avenue and across the levee, allowing you to whet your appetite after a long day of fun in the sun.

Harbor Point

Harbor Point is an up-and-coming redevelopment district comprised of five distinct areas, each centered on a park or waterfront feature along the harbor. Visitors can spend a sunny day enjoying daily fun, good food or easy access to the waterfront. Besides boating opportunities, the area has more than 20 acres of public parks perfect for families and individuals alike and a full calendar of seasonal daily activities.

“Summer is the perfect time to take advantage of everything Stamford has to offer,” says Kaufman. “We encourage you to get out there and explore!”

Welcome Home – Become a ClubW Member Today!

We look forward to introducing you to the distinctive lifestyle at Waterstone on High Ridge and welcoming you as one of our first residents. For more information, please call 203.361.9717 and discover how you can help shape the future of our premier rental community for seniors 62 and over.

The Height of Senior Living: Opening Early 2022

Discerning seniors in Fairfield County who desire a dynamic retirement lifestyle will find exactly what they’ve been seeking at Waterstone on High Ridge.

Located on beautiful site that neighbors a conservation area, Waterstone on High Ridge is an experience like no other. You’ll live on a lush campus with easy access to the shopping, dining and cultural opportunities in nearby downtown Stamford, CT. Once you step into our sophisticated common areas brimming with extensive amenities, attentive team members, engaging programming and thoughtful care, you’ll know that Waterstone on High Ridge is the place to call home.

Offering independent living, assisted living and memory care, Waterstone on High Ridge provides countless ways for seniors 62+ to enjoy their retirement to the fullest. In this classic, beautiful new community, you’ll be inspired by all the amenities and programs to take up a new hobby, exercise in our fitness center and indoor pool, and make new friends while dining and enjoying social events.

Waterstone on High Ridge is filled with energizing and convenient amenities such as an indoor pool, fitness center, salon, media room and more. Enjoy your elegant living space – a large, sunlit apartment complete with a full-size designer kitchen, well-appointed bathroom, walk-in closet and more. Everything at Waterstone on High Ridge was created with you in mind, where our wellness-focused lifestyle and elevated amenities give you the ability to make life your own– how you like it.

Welcome to Waterstone on High Ridge. Welcome home! Join the experience of what life is like at this premier senior living community by calling 203.361.9717.

Tags Senior Living, Waterstone on High Ridge

Wellesley

It’s Never Too Late To Find a New Path in Life

Post author By Adele Pepin
Post date August 16, 2021

senior woman shaping clay on a pottery wheel

There’s a new trend with today’s seniors taking a new path in life. You can thank the Baby Boomers for that – they’re reinventing what “retired” or “seniorhood” means just as much as they redefined society during their youth. You probably know someone – or perhaps are that someone – who’s decided to pursue a new path exploring their interests in their older years.

“These days, we’re discovering that it’s never too late to find a meaningful path for your life,” says Devon Sicard, Executive Director of Waterstone at Wellesley. “Considering how our interests and desires change throughout the course of our lives, that’s a good thing. Your path at 20 is probably a lot different than your path at 50 or your path at 70. One of the great joys of retirement is that people are discovering they can try new things. For perhaps the first time in their lives, they don’t need to worry or care for the needs of others, only themselves.”

Devon says that some older adults who want to find their “path” but require additional assistance or have health concerns, they should explore assisted living services. “Assisted living services at Waterstone at Wellesley are designed so we can help our residents find their path while also receiving the supportive, dignified care they require,” she says. “We don’t believe that needing help should keep you from discovering your purpose and finding fulfilling pursuits. It’s our goal to get to know each of our residents and discover not just their needs, but their desires, so we can help them find their path in a meaningful, healthy and supportive way.”

“To deliver the most appropriate care and to help support independence, we develop customized care plans for each resident. We provide support with activities of daily living and assistance with medication management. This degree of personalized care allows us to provide close observation of any change in support or health needs, as well as quick intervention to address those changes. At the same time, we provide amenities, activities and events that offer everything our residents need to live active, engaged lives that promote complete health, wellness and fulfillment.”

What’s Your Path?

What’s something you’ve always wanted to learn, pursue or discover? Have you always secretly or not-so-secretly wanted to learn to play guitar? Sculpt? Speak a new language? Your path can be as big and grand or as small and individualized as you want. Finding a passion and a purpose provide a wide variety of health benefits, and it doesn’t matter what your purpose is as long as you have one. Here are a few ideas of things to think about to help you discover what path sounds right and meaningful for you in your retirement years. The nice thing is that you don’t have to choose a path and stick with it forever. If you find out it’s not quite as meaningful or interesting as you thought, you can always try something different – that’s your choice!

A new career.

If you’ve spent decades in the workforce, the idea of working again in retirement may sound like the last thing you want to do. But many retirees find themselves going back to work after several years “off” because they miss having that purpose. While some retirees choose to work on a part-time or contract basis in a similar role (maybe even for their old company), others choose to launch new businesses or start completely different careers in other fields. Maybe you were a successful lawyer in your past, but you’ve always enjoyed helping people put their taxes together. Or perhaps you were a marketing professional who deep down wanted to open a restaurant. Or maybe you want a customer-facing role in a small business. Going back into the workforce is a great way to keep your skills sharp, interact with others and use your extensive knowledge to give back in some way shape or form.

Volunteering.

There are a lot of similarities to going back into the workforce and becoming a volunteer. Many seniors end up becoming very devoted volunteers for worthy organizations because they have the time and financial resources to donate their time without worrying about making a paycheck. Most volunteers would say that this type of work is the most meaningful, as it allows them to make a difference through causes that are the most important to them. Working at an animal shelter, mentoring youth, donating time to a local food bank or Habitat for Humanity … the opportunities are endless.

Strengthening your relationships.

Perhaps you’ll find your path is a little more personal. It could be that you want to spend your golden years building and deepening your relationships with people who mean the most to you. Some seniors choose to move near adult children and grandchildren so they can spend as much time as possible helping their family and watching them grow. Others may spend this time deepening relationships with spouses and lifelong friends. And others may want to branch out and form bonds with like-minded people who share passions or hobbies. Maintaining strong and meaningful connections is one of the best ways to help you age well, stay healthy and keep you looking and feeling young.

Making art.

Creativity is something that all humans have. Deep down, we all have the desire to create beauty and express ourselves in some way. Whether you’re a musician, a creative writer, a talented chef or a great interior designer, the arts provide a sense of purpose and fulfilment that is unmatched. In your senior years, you can actually pursue these creative endeavors without worrying about having to “make it big” (or even make a paycheck). If you’ve enjoyed an artistic passion throughout your years, now is your time to really explore it. Or, if you’ve never thought of yourself as a creative person but have always wanted to learn, you can try a wide variety of hobbies and endeavors until you find the one that truly moves you.

Being a role model.

We usually think of role models as famous people who inspire us to be better. But you don’t have to be a celebrity to be a good role model. For example, you could become a paragon of health, reinventing yourself and showing the world that any age can be the healthiest age of your life. Or you could be a motivational speaker, passing on your knowledge to those who can learn from it. Or you could simply live your best life and make the world a little better place for everyone you meet.

Whatever it is that you’ve always wanted to do, your retirement is the perfect chance to explore and try it. Moving into a community like Waterstone at Wellesley provides seniors with the assistance and support to help make life carefree, along with the time, resources and opportunities for you to explore and find your new path in life.

Beautiful Riverfront Community

Located on the banks of the Charles River, Waterstone is Wellesley’s only senior living community, offering premier independent and assisted living. But that’s only the first of many differences that sets Waterstone above and beyond other communities.

Celebrating Dynamic Living

Here our residents live independently in their own private, spacious apartments – but without any of the worries or concerns of homeownership or living alone. All meals are expertly prepared. There aren’t any chores to be concerned with. No home maintenance or repairs to worry about. Just opportunities around every corner and time to spend as they choose – in the company of new friends.

Our vibrant community encourages residents to engage in a variety of recreational, cultural and social programs and activities. Enjoy a fitness class. Swim in the sunny indoor pool. Take a stroll on a walking path. Partake in a favorite hobby or pastime. Discover a new interest. With Waterstone at Wellesley, there’s a world of opportunity waiting right outside our residents’ doors.

Confidence of Care

The hallmark of Waterstone assisted living is the peace of mind we provide both our residents and their families. Knowing that care and support is available right on site instills a sense of confidence and calm one can’t find living alone.

For prospective residents or their families interested in residing at Waterstone at Wellesley, please contact us at 781.235.1614.

Tags Assisted Living, Waterstone at Wellesley

The Circle

How a Rental Community Provides Seniors Financial Flexibility

Post author By Adele Pepin
Post date August 16, 2021

woman smiling and taking a photo of herself near a harbor

When it’s time to select a community for your retirement, there are many factors to consider. Services, amenities, care levels, location, lifestyle … and financial structure. Do you want to move to a ‘buy-in’ community or a ‘rental-style’ community?

“The two different payment types of communities are rental, like Waterstone at the Circle, or communities that require an entrance fee as a sort of down payment for future care needs,” says Kevin Defayette, Executive Director of Waterstone at the Circle. “Both types of communities can be excellent options depending on your needs, but you’ll really want to carefully consider what your needs are in a community, and what sort of option will best fit the retirement lifestyle you’re looking for.”

While communities that require an entrance fee – generally known as Life Plan Communities – have become very popular, Kevin says that there has recently been a shift toward more upscale, premier rental options for the aging Baby Boomer population. “Today’s seniors want the ultimate choice and flexibility for their retirement, which is why we designed Waterstone at the Circle to be a rental-style community,” he explains. “This gives our residents peace of mind that they aren’t being locked into any long-term contracts or commitments while also being able to receive all the care and assistance they may require in the future, if they so wish. That flexibility provides supreme convenience and personalization for our residents, and allows our team to focus on delivering an exceptional retirement lifestyle like none you’ll find elsewhere.”

How a Rental Community Works

If you’ve ever rented an apartment or home before, then you understand exactly how a fee structure at a rental retirement community works. It’s simple. Our residents pay a one-time membership fee and then pay one monthly fee moving forward. That fee ensures residents a maintenance-free lifestyle complete with dining, fitness, activities, events and so much more.

If, for whatever reason, residents require additional services to live the active and independent lives they love, rental communities often provide access to supportive services for an additional fee. At Waterstone at the Circle, we’ve partnered with some of the best Boston-area healthcare providers to bring on-demand supportive services directly to our residents – right within the comfort of their apartment homes. It’s independent living at its finest – with the confidence that comes from knowing assistance is always available so you can continue to live in the trusted community you’ve come to know and love.

The Benefits of a Rental Community

A maintenance-free and carefree lifestyle.

Independent living at a rental retirement community is all the perks of homeownership without any of the tedious tasks and chores. No more having to deal with home or lawn maintenance. No more dealing with winter snow and all the headaches that come from cold weather. No more dealing with meal planning and cooking, either (unless you still want). Instead, all that time formerly spent on managing household things can be spent on managing your next adventure.

Incredible flexibility.

As we’ve mentioned several times, a rental community provides the ultimate in convenience and flexibility. At Life Plan Communities, the significant entrance fee provides peace of mind, but it also “tethers” seniors to the community. Although it is possible to move from a buy-in community, it can be difficult and time-consuming. At a rental retirement community, however, you have no large buy-in and no commitment. At Waterstone at the Circle, we’re month-to-month, which means that if our residents decide they want to move somewhere else for whatever reason, they can do so affordably and easily. It also means that we work hard to continue delivering the exceptional lifestyle, hospitality, and service that residents expect – all day, every day!

Freedom of choice (for healthcare).

One of the reasons seniors may choose a buy-in community is the peace of mind that comes from knowing all levels of care – independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation – are all available on the community campus.

However, a rental community can provide peace of mind by not requiring all healthcare services to be located on site. Sometimes communities that offer comprehensive care have “best in the area” designations for one or more of their healthcare services. It’s very rare for them to have that designation for all of their services. In other words, when you pay into one of those communities, you’re pretty much bound to what’s available. In a rental community, on the other hand, you can choose to use the services available on site – or not. If you need additional services and would prefer to go somewhere else, you’re able to do so easily. It’s rather the best of both worlds – the ability to get care on site if you wish and the freedom to go elsewhere if you so desire.

You only pay for the services you require.

That large entrance fee that you pay for moving into a Life Plan Community is like a down payment against your future healthcare needs. But what if you don’t end up needing additional long-term care? What if you remain healthy and independent for the vast majority of your stay? While most of us will need some form of assistance in our lives, there are also people who remain healthy and active with only minor health concerns.

A rental community contract means that you’re only paying for the services that you need right now. Sure, your costs may increase in the future, but having that freedom (and the liquid assets) now to use your estate and your funds in the way you like can be very freeing. Instead of tying up a large chunk of wealth in a down payment, you can use them instead to travel, start a trust fund for your heirs or whatever else you’d like to do.

You’re free to change your mind whenever you like.

A rental community like Waterstone at the Circle allows you to change your mind – which can provide a lot of peace of mind for today’s seniors. After all, what a “good life” looks like to you in your early 60s may shift as you get older, and that’s okay. A rental community allows you to live your best retirement life today and make choices that ensure your happiness tomorrow. As you age and as your life situation changes, you get to make choices that ensure your happiness then, too. Even if it means staying right where you are – ultimately, the choice is yours.

Is a Rental Community Right for You?

As you’re considering the type of payment structure you’d like for your retirement years, consider these questions:

What are my health needs now?
What do I expect my health needs to be in the future?
What sort of flexibility do I want for my future?
What are my priorities?
What feels “right” for me?

There’s no right or wrong choice when it comes to your retirement lifestyle – only the decision that’s right for you. A rental retirement community can provide confidence for now and in the future – which can be a priceless investment.

Luxury Senior Living in Boston

Waterstone at the Circle, located in Boston’s historic Cleveland Circle neighborhood, is more than just independent living in Boston … it’s a sophisticated urban setting for today’s active seniors. Enjoy best-in-class service and an urban lifestyle with arts and cultural, and historical attractions right outside your front door. From high-end amenities to gourmet dining and more, experience the best of city and suburban life at our upscale senior living community located on the crossroads of Brookline and Chestnut Hill.

Elegant Independent Living Apartments

Senior Living Supportive Services

The best part? Residents don’t have to leave our senior living community – or even their apartment – to receive high-quality support. They can receive the services they need, when they need it, in the comfort of their own homes or in our on-site therapy gym.

Waterstone at the Circle is the opposite of retiring . . . it’s a place to enhance your active, on-the-go lifestyle. Call 617.431.1880 for more information or to schedule a visit to our premier Boston independent living community and discover The Circle lifestyle today!