Author: Jacquelyn Cieri

Helpful Travel Tips for Seniors

Post author By Jacquelyn Cieri
Post date August 4, 2022

Woman making a list for her travel, on a wooden desktop with travel accessories.

Travel can do a lot for us – it can enable us to see our families and friends, it can satisfy our need for adventure, or it can provide us with opportunities to learn and grow. For this reason, many seniors want to continue traveling as much as they can.

If you are planning to travel this summer and beyond, these tips can help make your journeys go smoothly – before you reach your destination and after.

Preparing for Travel This Summer – and Beyond

For many seniors, travel preparation is the hardest part of vacation planning. Whether you’re exploring the beauty that exists in the United States or are going on a tour of Asia, Africa, or even a guided tour of Europe, the good news is that basic travel preparation needs will remain similar. Before getting overwhelmed with all there is to do prior to your travel plans, check these items off your list.

Visit your healthcare provider

Prior to traveling, schedule a visit with your primary doctor so they can:

Discuss any necessary travel precautions
Evaluate your health and wellness
Update any vaccinations
Prescribe supplements beneficial to your travels
Assess your medications and times you should take them according to time zone

Make copies

When traveling, it’s a good idea to make additional copies of important documents. Consider making two copies of:

Passports
Driver’s licenses
Insurance cards
Tickets and boarding passes

Prepare emergency information

Keep your health provider’s contact information and a detailed list of allergies and medications with you. This sheet should include:

All prescribed and over-the-counter medications
What each medication is for
Medication dosage and times they should be taken
How to take them – with food or without
Medication, food or other allergies

Keep two copies of this information with you – one that’s with you on hand, and one in your suitcase.

Consider travel insurance

Many seniors prefer to purchase travel insurance in the event of an unforeseen circumstance. This can help cover the costs of:

Delayed or interrupted travel
Lost luggage
Medical emergencies

Plans may vary, so if you’re considering this, be sure to learn what they cover prior to purchasing and traveling.

Tips for Traveling

Packing Pointers

Pack as light as possible
Make navigation easier with roller bags
Carry medications with you in their original containers for easy identification
Keep at least one outfit and your most necessary items with you

Helpful Hints for Air Travel

Book a nonstop flight to avoid a missed plane connection
Alert the airline of accommodations you may need ahead of time
Be ready to share any medical conditions that may set off alarms, like implants or prosthetics
Take frequent breaks to stretch or get some physical activity after a long flight
Drink plenty of water, as low humidity on planes can dehydrate during an already hot summertime

Overseas Adventure Travel Advice

Be sure your phone allows international calling, or see if it can be activated
Alert your bank and credit card companies where you’ll be during your trips
Learn the basics of the language where you’re visiting, if needed
Consider a reputable tour guide; try small group travel or senior group tours

Additional Tips for Senior Travel Success

Do not announce that you’re leaving – for home and personal security
Have friends check your home, get your mail, and water plants
Give yourself time to rest, relax, and build up your energy levels after jet lag
Avoid nighttime travel and read up on scams
Keep valuables out of eyesight
Check for age-related discounts

Be a Tourist in Your Local Area with a Staycation or Day Trip

If you don’t plan on traveling this summer, you can still enjoy adventures and new experiences right where you are living. In fact, some of the best vacations, hidden gems and special moments can be experienced right where you are – or nearby.

Get outdoors and explore your area’s parks
Plan a road trip to explore national parks close to you
Become your grandchildren’s ‘professional travel guide’ and show them around your favorite local places
Research companies designed to provide senior travel experiences, like Road Scholar^Ⓡ
Participate in a world tour through food, trying a new restaurant or dish each time

Make Every Day Feel Like Vacation

At Waterstone of Lexington, we will provide a range of programs, cultural opportunities, events, and trips that will foster your love of travel and exploration. Whether on campus or throughout our local area, there will always be something to enjoy.

If you prefer to pack up and go wherever you choose, Waterstone of Lexington will make it simple to travel. Enjoy being free from worries about who is watching your home, taking care of your plants, or mowing the lawn; instead, travel with ease.

If you’re ready to set off on a new adventure, discover our lifestyle for yourself by visiting our website or scheduling a tour today.

DISCOVER WATERSTONE OF LEXINGTON

Opening in fall 2022, Waterstone of Lexington will offer an active retirement lifestyle and customized assisted living services.

Tags Seniors, Waterstone of Lexington

High Ridge

When Is the Right Time for Assisted Living?

Post author By Jacquelyn Cieri
Post date August 4, 2022

A senior mother with adult daughter indoors at home, looking at family photographs.

There may come a time in your loved one’s life when they need a little extra support – but when is assisted living necessary? While the answer will differ for everyone, some key signs can help you evaluate when it’s the right time for assisted living services.

If you’ve been wondering whether assisted living would be beneficial for your loved one, read on as we share some of the many signs, provide tips, and include resources that can help you decide as your loved one’s needs change.

When Is It Time for a Loved One to Move to Assisted Living?

For many family members, searching for senior living communities can be an overwhelming process; however, many find that when they notice the following signs, a move may be best for their loved one’s physical health and well-being. These can include:

Hospitalization, sickness, or a sudden change in needs
Memory loss that interferes with daily living
Guidance from healthcare providers to consider a move to assisted living
A decline in ability to care for themselves such as poor nutrition, inability to bathe themselves properly, or trouble with taking medications correctly
A decline in ability to manage the home such as lack of necessary maintenance, problems with yardwork or less attention to cleanliness

While care concerns for a loved one are the ultimate indicator of the need for assisted living services, family members may find that a move to a senior living community benefits not only their loved one, but themselves, too. The following concerns can indicate that now may be a good time to consider assisted living.

Your loved one’s care requires more time than you can provide
Memory loss is causing symptoms that are beyond what you can handle
You’re experiencing burnout and stress
You are no longer connecting with those you love and are quitting your hobbies
You have your own health conditions to consider

Why Should I Consider Assisted Living Over My Loved One Remaining at Home?

Many seniors want to remain at home for as long as possible, but as needs change, the reality is that assisted living communities can provide a better mix of supportive care, engaging lifestyle, and socialization – leading to an enhanced quality of life.

When comparing staying at home versus moving to an assisted living community, residents within a premier assisted living community such as Waterstone on High Ridge benefit from:

A beautiful private apartment with safety features
A warm atmosphere with around-the-clock support
Skilled team members who are trained to handle all activities of daily living
Increased opportunities for daily connection
A life enrichment team that creates a full schedule of daily programs, events and activities

If you are starting to notice signs that it may be time for assisted living, reach out to our team for some tips on starting the conversation about assisted living with your loved one and other family members.

Live the Life You Want with the Support You Need

At Waterstone on High Ridge, we offer best-in-class assisted living in Stamford, CT, that provides just the right amount of support to enable our residents to full enjoy our carefree, enriching lifestyle. Our assisted living community includes:

Private living spaces with studios and one- or two-bedroom apartments
Comprehensive support on site with 24-hour care and nursing support
Personalized care consultation and customized wellness plans
Assistance with daily living activities
Three nutritious meals daily with locally sourced, fresh ingredients
Medication management
Weekly housekeeping
On-site concierge services
Overnight support staff

Bridges^® at Waterstone Memory Care

Waterstone on High Ridge also provides a dedicated m emory c are household, with expert care provided by the experts at Bridges^® by EPOCH. This additional level of care ensures residents can age in place as healthcare needs may change.

Whether your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, the compassionate care and dedicated support they need is right here – no matter where they are in their journey with memory loss.

Our Bridges^® at Waterstone lifestyle includes a range of services and amenities to enrich the lives of those we serve, including:

Research-based and thoughtfully designed household to support loved ones
Beautifully designed suites featuring a soothing atmosphere
Common areas where residents can remain engaged and feel at home
Personalized wellness programs, events and activities
24-hour licensed nursing care and assistance with daily routines
Three chef-prepared meals daily
A personalized approach to care that creates connection and meaningful engagement

Plan Ahead for a Move

Even if you and your loved one are not quite ready to make a move, our best advice is to plan ahead as much as possible so that when the time comes, you’re prepared and confident in your decision.

No matter what your or your loved one’s care needs are, our team is here for you. Whether you’ve got general questions or are considering your options, we can guide you through the process of finding the perfect assisted living or memory care option. Schedule your family’s tour today.

SUPPORT WHEN YOU NEED IT. HOME THE WAY YOU LIKE 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.

Tags Senior Living, Waterstone on High Ridge

The Circle

Benefits of Friendships as We Age

Post author By Jacquelyn Cieri
Post date August 1, 2022

Four older woman on holiday in Cyprus are enjoying ice cream cones.

There’s nothing better than a good friend – one you can call when you’re feeling down; those you’re the first to go to when something great happens; the ones you can always count on. While it’s true that as we age, friends may come and go, there’s plenty to be said for those who stay – and the ones we make along the way.

Benefits of Senior Friendship and Socialization

Social connections, friendships and meeting new people can have physical, mental and emotional benefits for older adults. Discover some of the many advantages below.

Physical Benefits

Having friends increases your activity levels.

If you’re always trying a new activity with a friend, doing sports together, going on walks, or consistently competing in yard games, you’re not sitting at home alone with little physical activity. Doing these things with your friends helps you get out of your space and keeps you active and connected.

Did you know that socializing beyond your normal friend and family group can have physical benefits, too? A study in The Journals of Gerontology, Series B: Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences found that those who have more variety in their social interactions spent less time being sedentary.

Friends encourage you to be your best self.

Those you love can be great motivators when it comes to regular exercise and eating healthy. Whether they are working toward a healthier lifestyle with you, or you want to remain active while being at your personal best, your health will likely benefit.

If health problems occur, you’ll have support.

Your best friend may have had a similar ailment (or know someone else who did) and be able to provide advice. An acquaintance may know exactly how to help care for you during a migraine. Another friend may know the perfect chiropractor to get you moving again without pain.

Mental and Emotional Health Benefits

Friendship can decrease the risk of cognitive decline.

Socializing can help improve brain function and sharpen cognitive abilities. It can also lower the risk of dementia.

Social contact with family members, close friends or new friends increases positivity.

Those surrounded by a vibrant social circle are less depressed, isolated, and lonely. Many people find that they are at their happiest when they are around their friends and loved ones. Whether this is because laughter is contagious or because friends provide a sense of belonging, socialization can boost mood, increase feelings of happiness – and may even help you live longer!

Expand Your Circle

Do these senior socialization benefits have you ready to spring into action? Some older adults may choose to expand their social circles by joining senior centers; however, many seniors find that a senior living community like Waterstone at the Circle offers a wider variety of programs, activities, and benefits – along with expanded possibilities for engagement and socialization. And even better, they await just outside their door.

Waterstone at the Circle: Making Socialization Easier

Here, there’s always an opportunity to engage with new friends, add variety to your activities, and bring even more fun to life. Discover how our lifestyle can keep you socially active.

Spend Each Day as You Please

At Waterstone at the Circle, we offer a carefree lifestyle where everything is taken care of for you, freeing you to pursue new passions, make new friends, volunteer your time and talents, or join a new club.

Enjoy a Range of Amenities

With a multitude of possibilities that await around every corner, you can have your choice of things to do – and plenty of people to enjoy them with.

Play games in the card room
Enjoy a movie in the theater with friends
Relax in the great room with family
Bond over the love of pets while helping your furry friend socialize
Explore Boston and all it has to offer with outings and trips

Explore Culturally Immersive Programs and Special Interest Clubs

It’s easy to meet plenty of people who share your interests simply by filling your social calendar with what you love. Some of the many programs we offer include:

Lecture series
Film screenings
Concerts
Group tai chi
Creative writing courses
Painting classes
Aqua aerobics
On- and off-site educational programs

Experience All Waterstone at the Circle Has to Offer

The best way to get a feel for whether Waterstone at the Circle is right for you is by visiting, talking with residents, and exploring our lifestyle for yourself. Schedule a tour or visit our website today to learn more about our premier independent living community for seniors 62 and over.

Tags Senior Living, Waterstone at the Circle

Westchester

Turning Your Independent Living Apartment into Home

Post author By Jacquelyn Cieri
Post date August 1, 2022

waterstone of westchester model apartment

Senior living communities like Waterstone of Westchester can provide luxury apartment features and beautiful open space, but it’s still a clean, blank slate to make your own. With some fun inspiration and design ideas, you can personalize your new home as you choose. It will make your independent living apartment feel just like home – but better, without any of the hassles that come along with homeownership!

What can you expect from independent living apartments at Waterstone of Westchester?

Many residents search for independent living to maintain their active lifestyle, but one of the added benefits is having the freedom, time and creativity to redefine your own style. To start you off, we provide some of these stunning features in your new one- or two-bedroom apartment home, then you can complement with your personal décor style and homemaking skills.

Premium plank flooring
Designer kitchen with stainless steel appliances
Bathrooms with walk-in showers
Walk-in closets – plus a washer and dryer
Spacious living areas with natural light

How to personalize your apartment to suit your style.

Whether you’d like to emulate your previous home or enjoy a fresh start, there are plenty of ways to reach your design preference goals. Do you need some senior living apartment decor ideas? We’ve compiled a list of some of the best tips to make your new living spaces shine!

Bring items you love.

One of the best ways to showcase who you are and the experiences you’ve enjoyed is by bringing favorite items from home. Many senior living residents decorate their apartments by:

Hanging up photographs of friends and family
Displaying family heirlooms and unique pieces of furniture
Setting their favorite books on the coffee table
Putting travel souvenirs on shelves

Or, find new ways to dress up your walls. Maybe one of these ideas from HGTV will be perfect for you – especially if you’re making a space for the grandkids!

Embrace the beauty of nature.

There’s nothing quite like bringing the outdoors in. If you’ve always loved your garden and being in nature, try making that a focal point of your space.

In the dining room, place fresh flowers on your dining table. Keep herbs you’re growing in the kitchen. Put some plants or potted trees in the living room. Place calming lavender on your bedside table. Make yourself a tabletop garden and place it on your balcony.

Make use of extra rooms.

At Waterstone of Westchester, we offer one-bedroom apartments with a den, or two-bedroom apartments – some of which feature a patio or balcony. This provides even more opportunity to make your space your own.

If you find yourself with extra space, consider making it a spare bedroom, a home office, or a quiet reading room. Your patio or balcony provides the chance to create your own outdoor oasis.

Make small spaces functional.

Don’t discount the use of smaller spaces within your apartment home. There are plenty of creative ways to use them.

Do you have space in your entryway? It’s the perfect spot for a small stand to house your keys, extra decor, or a plantstand.
Would you prefer to stow away your clothes that aren’t in season? Purchase rolling containers to place underneath the bed.
Do you find yourself with space in the bottom of your closet but nowhere to go with your favorite craft materials? Consider placing them on a three-tier rolling cart so you can roll them around as needed while maximizing your space.
Are you having trouble finding somewhere to put your favorite decorative platter? Display it on a stand in your kitchen!
Don’t forget about the backs of doors, too! You may just find the perfect space for items you need to store with over-the-door solutions.

Just have fun.

Creating a new living space is meant to be fun, so embrace the journey and aim to showcase your personality, what you love, and what makes you unique. Not only will this serve you well when hosting visitors, but it’s sure to make you feel right at home.

Let’s get started.

If you’re interested in getting a closer look at how you can make your space your own at Waterstone of Westchester, schedule a visit! During your tour, you can experience our lifestyle, view our model apartments, and talk with our team and residents. To schedule your visit, contact us today.

WATERSTONE OF WESTCHESTER. NOW THIS IS HOME.

Waterstone of Westchester is a brand-new, premier independent senior 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.