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04- Birds Eye Courtyard View
Author: Jacquelyn Cieri
One of the best parts of independent living at Waterstone at the Circle is that you can enjoy urban living with all the conveniences of a lifestyle centered around your happiness – and this includes culturally immersive programs, carefree living, and a prime location putting you close to everything that matters to you.
Whether you simply want to enjoy all that our location offers, are looking to enjoy an activity with your grandchildren, or want to explore the range of senior-friendly activities around the Boston area, there’s an ever-growing list of things to do.
Senior-Friendly Things To Do in Boston and Beyond
At Waterstone at the Circle, and in Boston in general, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. No matter your goal or interests, we’re sure there’s an option that will bring you joy, fun and excitement. Check out some of our top suggestions below.
Take in the sports – or get some exercise.
Boston is located in the perfect place for getting active or enjoying a range of sporting activities. Whether you prefer to sit on the sidelines or get in on the action, there’s plenty to do.
- Catch a game at Fenway Park or take a tour.
- Enjoy time at Boston Common, America’s oldest public park.
- Stroll along the Chestnut Hill Reservoir.
- Visit one of the many gardens throughout our area.
- Go golfing in Boston’s surrounding area.
- Swim, kayak or build sandcastles with the grandkids on some of the many accessible islands.
Tour historic sites and national historic landmarks.
Are you a history lover? You’ve come to the right place! There are so many historical sites to enjoy. Consider visiting one of these or enjoying a guided tour!
- Visit the Paul Revere House or see if an event is scheduled soon.
- Tour the USS Constitution or visit the museum.
- Check out the old churches and their beautiful stained-glass pieces throughout Boston.
- Take a trolley tour.
- Check out the Bunker Hill Monument when it re-opens! It’s been receiving ongoing restoration work as of March 28, 2022.
- Visit one of the many educational institutions in the area, like Harvard University or Boston College.
- Book a guided walking tour on the Freedom Trail.
Delight in dining.
There’s never a shortage of delicious dining options in Boston. Whether you are looking for fine dining or something more casual, these options may do the trick.
- Grab some delicious seafood at the Boston Harbor.
- Visit the North End for Italian food.
- Check out one of the many food trucks you can usually find.
- Enjoy outdoor dining at one of many beautiful locations throughout Boston.
- Visit some of the breweries, wineries and more in the area.
- Enjoy some of the best area dishes with a Yummy Walks guided food tour.
Go shopping.
For some, there’s nothing more fun than finding a new favorite shop, supporting local businesses or enjoying quality time having fun shopping with friends. Boston is full of wonderful places to shop ‘til you drop! Visit:
- Visit Faneuil Hall Marketplace.
- Shop name brands at Copley Place.
- Check out the vendors at Haymarket Boston.
- Shop at the Prudential Center.
- Visit The Street in Chestnut Hill.
Explore on the water.
Do you and your friends love to set sail? Boston and the surrounding area are great places to start. Try some of these ideas to satisfy your love of the water.
- Did you know that May through October is the best time for whale watching? Consider booking a tour.
- Take a ride in a swan boat in the public garden lagoon.
- Make a splash with a Boston Duck Tour, crossing both land and water.
- Go fishing for bass.
- Check out the Charles River Watershed, which begins in Hopkinton and ends in the Boston Harbor.
Visit popular attractions.
Whether your grandkids are visiting, your friends are coming to stay for a bit, or you simply want to explore, some of these popular attractions might just be what you’re looking for!
- Purchase tickets for the New England Aquarium.
- Visit the Museum of Fine Arts Boston.
- Take a trip to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.
- See a show at Symphony Hall or the Citizens Bank Opera House.
- Take in the atmosphere at the Boston Public Library’s Central Library in Copley Square.
- Visit the Boston Children’s Museum.
Something for everyone.
As you can see, there are plenty of things for seniors to do in the Boston and Chestnut Hill areas. What’s even better is that, at Waterstone at the Circle, we put you in the center of it all.
Situated at the intersection of Chestnut Hill Avenue and Beacon Street, Waterstone at the Circle’s landmark location puts you near shopping, dining, entertainment, cultural venues and more.
Enjoy any of the above activities by taking public transportation, driving yourself or taking advantage of our chauffeur and concierge services, or simply enjoy everything our community has to offer. From fine dining to engaging programs, social opportunities and more, there is always something to enjoy at our luxury retirement community.
Before you set off.
As we all know in these times, shops may close, restaurants may limit seating, shows may have requirements, and hours may vary. Make sure that when you are considering your plans, you call, visit social media pages, or check out their websites prior to your planning and arrival. This can ensure these attractions are open to the public while preventing any unwanted changes in plans or disappointments.
Also, be sure to check out wheelchair accessibility, if needed, and consider the weather before you go if planning an event outdoors!
WATERSTONE AT THE CIRCLE. NOW THIS IS HOME.
For more information about Waterstone at the Circle, Boston’s premier independent living community for seniors 62 and over, contact us today.
For many older adults and family members, the time may eventually come to discuss a move to a senior living or assisted living community. Whether the move is for enhanced social opportunities or additional levels of care, it can be a difficult conversation to have. For some, they may look forward to a move immensely; for other older adults, it may take significant consideration, making it a slower process. Either way, however, many find they wish they’d made a move sooner.
Signs It’s Time to Make a Move to an Assisted Living Community
Are you wondering if it’s time for your loved one to make a move to assisted living? Check out these signs that a move may be beneficial:
- Your loved one needs support with activities of daily living, like dressing, bathing or medication management.
- They are feeling isolated in their own home.
- The search for home care is becoming exhausting.
- Your loved one requires more support than you can provide at home.
- They prefer to receive care from someone who is not a family member.
Preparing for a Move to Assisted Living: Tips To Support a Loved One
How can you best prepare a loved one for a move to assisted living? First, it’s important to realize it’s a process that requires preparation before the move, during the move and even afterward. Try our tips to help guide you through every step of the journey.
Before the Move
If you are going to be talking to a loved one about moving to an assisted living community, it’s a good idea to gauge their interest first. Use their answers to the questions below to guide your conversation. Be respectful of their thoughts and opinions, but also remember to be honest about your concerns about them remaining at home. Above all, be sure that the conversation remains calm and pleasant; if it moves in another direction, revisit the discussion at a later time.
- Are they eager to move?
- Do they have any concerns about a move?
- Do they feel that they would benefit from additional support?
- Do they have a specific community in mind?
It’s always a good idea to tour a variety of assisted living communities. Each has a different atmosphere, services may vary – and your loved one may not feel at home at every community you tour. Make a list, schedule some visits, and evaluate each according to your loved one’s wishes and preferences.
Once you’ve set the location of the move and your loved one is ready to take the next step, it’s time to start the packing and downsizing process. Before diving into this step, however, it’s best to keep yourself on track by creating a moving checklist. This won’t just help you stay organized, but it can also prevent the need to remember everything off the top of your head. Make sure this list is in a prominent place that all eyes can see.
On the checklist, write out some things you are going to need, including:
- Moving supplies, like lifting equipment and hand trucks, if you aren’t hiring a mover. If you need help moving larger items, a moving truck can help.
- Packing supplies, like moving boxes, packing paper and foam, bubble wrap and packing tape.
- Essential items to remember when packing belongings, like clothing, medications, hobby items and family photos.
- Important goal dates, ensuring you’re on time with the moving process.
During the Downsizing Process
As the move inches closer and you begin the process of moving in, refer back to your checklist to make sure you have everything you need. Then, it’s time to start downsizing. We know that the process can feel overwhelming, but with these tips, it will be easier.
- Make a list of where you want to begin. Some choose to tackle the smaller spaces, like closets, first. Others like to begin downsizing larger living spaces.
- If you have help, ask others to take care of spaces that you know won’t be difficult to go through so you can cross those off the list. Otherwise, make sure to tackle one room at a time to reduce clutter.
- Evaluate what needs to stay and what needs to go. For example, if you know your loved one will not need their large collection of kitchen tools, pack those away to donate or to give to a family member.
- Consider renting a dumpster so you can toss any necessary items versus starting a pile.
- Designate someone to take items to the donation center daily so that those items are out of the way.
- As you pack, carefully label boxes that will be taken with you so you know where to put them when unpacking in their new assisted living community.
Moving Day
When the day finally arrives, focus on settling your loved one in, helping them get comfortable, and ensuring they have everything they need in their new space. To make move-in day go smoother:
- Pack the moving truck or your cars the night before.
- Enjoy breakfast together.
- Complete any finishing touches on packing.
- Provide support for your loved one if needed.
- Invite friends or family to unpack with you.
- Decorate right away, if possible, to make their space feel more like home.
After the Move
Once your loved one is settled in, there are still things you can do to help them feel more at home.
- Introduce yourself and your loved one to neighbors.
- Schedule extra times to come visit.
- Check in with their care team to see how they are adjusting.
- Point out events on the community’s schedule they might enjoy.
- Periodically ask how your loved one is feeling.
- Encourage them to get involved.
Over time, your loved one will feel more at home, and you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing they are safe, engaged and well-cared for. If you would like to learn more about moving to assisted living or to schedule a visit at Waterstone of Lexington, contact us today.
WATERSTONE OF LEXINGTON: NOW THIS IS HOME
Waterstone of Lexington – opening fall 2022 – will offer a modern approach to retirement living in a historical setting with concierge services and impressive amenities. Come see how we redefine independent living and assisted living with a visit to our Welcome Center in Belmont.
As seniors age, many consider moving to a senior living community like Waterstone at Wellesley. What’s more is that many of these seniors happen to be single. Why are so many of these single seniors choosing senior living communities? Join us as we take a deep dive into the decision-making process and how a move to senior living provides them with abundant opportunities to thrive!
Today’s Senior Living Experience
There was once a time when many Baby Boomers believed retirement communities were like nursing homes; and now, those days are long gone! Instead, many single older adults have tossed those old views away and are making informed decisions about their futures based on what senior living is like now – and what it will be in the future.
With all the perks, amenities and lifestyle of senior living communities like Waterstone at Wellesley, it’s certainly easy to see why!
How Senior Living Helps Single Seniors Thrive
Many single seniors look forward to a move for the same reasons that those who aren’t single do. From the lifestyle and amenities to gourmet dining and maintenance-free living, there is often so much to look forward to. However, there are definitely some ways that single seniors benefit even more from senior living.
Senior living provides social connections.
We’re going to kick off this list of benefits with one of the most important: social opportunities. Within senior living communities, older adults are able to meet new people, find new hobbies, bond with others over shared interests, and enjoy a range of programs to keep them engaged.
At Waterstone at Wellesley, we offer a variety of programs, special interest clubs, group fitness classes, and more to meet varying interests, enhance involvement, and prevent isolation.
They can say goodbye to the hassles of homeownership.
In senior living communities like Waterstone at Wellesley, home maintenance, housekeeping and yardwork are taken care of for residents.
This ensures that if they don’t know how to fix something, they won’t need to learn or pay an outside company to come fix it for them! If they have always had trouble keeping up with the lawn, watering plants or trimming up the hedges, they won’t need to worry about it. If they have always had someone come to their home to tidy up, they won’t need to worry about doing it themselves after a move either.
Instead, they give their to-do list to us so they can enjoy their lifestyle with peace of mind.
Meals are prepared for them.
Cooking for one can be fun and may lead to some creative recipes, but often, it can lead to making quick meals – and an increase in unhealthy dietary choices. At communities like Waterstone at Wellesley, chef-prepared meals are provided.
Instead of single older adults being the sole person doing meal prep, cooking and cleanup, we take the hassle out of it. Residents can simply be our guests while dining with friends or family and savoring everything we offer.
Care services are available if or when it’s needed.
When single seniors remain at home, they may not have support if health challenges arise. The search for care at home can be challenging and difficult to acquire. Ultimately, a health crisis is often what drives a move for some seniors, especially when they are single.
By making a move before care is required, however, single seniors can get to know the team, make new friends, and enjoy the programs and events that communities have to offer. Then, when they need care, it will be available to them from a community they trust. Best of all, they’ll continue enjoying the current lifestyle they love.
Providing Opportunities for Single Older Adults To Thrive
Are you interested in learning more about the benefits of retirement communities and independent living for single seniors? The team at Waterstone at Wellesley would love to chat with you. Schedule a visit to learn more about our lifestyle and experience how we keep all seniors engaged and active.
WATERSTONE AT WELLESLEY. NOW THIS IS HOME.
Waterstone at Wellesley offers independent living and assisted living options in the heart of Wellesley, MA. Contact us for more information or to schedule a personal visit today.
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Why Age Really Is Only a State of Mind
We often hear many people say, “If you don’t use it, you lose it,” especially in regard to staying active, healthy and at optimal wellness. While this can most certainly be true, as we see older adults age and place a greater emphasis on fitness and health, living the lifestyle they love and expanding their minds, it begs the question – do they really know something we don’t know?
Consider what you think of when you imagine traditional nursing homes, assisted living facilities and senior living communities of the past. If you’re like many, you might envision seniors who sit around and watch TV, who aren’t very active, and don’t really socialize or participate in engaging activities. You might even imagine something more akin to a hospital environment.
Now, think about your family members or your friends’ grandparents; do they fit that image you have created in your mind? Most likely, the answer is a resounding no! Today, seniors are running circles around those negative views and stereotypes – and will continue to do so.
The truth is that the seniors of today know aging really is only a state of mind. Not only do they embrace aging, but they welcome it, using their time as an opportunity to be their best, to enhance their health, to continue their pursuit of lifelong learning, and to really make the most of their golden years. It’s a lesson many would do well to learn from, and older adults are more than happy to share how to embrace the aging process.
Why Age Is a State of Mind
At Waterstone at the Circle, a luxury independent living community located at the foot of Chestnut Hill in Boston, those we serve know better than anyone that the younger you feel, the better you feel – cognitively, physically and mentally.
In fact, a study published by the American Psychological Association suggests this may be because of the link between subjective age and health, meaning that feeling younger may help protect those who are middle age or older from the effects of stress.
During the study, researchers found those who experienced more stress were more likely to have a decline in functional health and may even need long-term care, whereas those who experienced less stress and less functional decline appeared to feel younger than their chronological age.
This is one of the many reasons Waterstone at the Circle provides a worry-free, active lifestyle that ensures seniors can define how they age – or find ways to feel even younger than before.
Aging in Independent Living
As a premier retirement living community, Waterstone at the Circle provides an active, enriching lifestyle that makes it easy to embrace the idea that age is a state of mind. Get a feel for what residents at The Circle enjoy every day by exploring our offerings below:
A Range of Engaging Programs and Activities
It’s easy to feel young when you’re surrounded by opportunities for personal growth, fulfillment and fun. At Waterstone at the Circle, residents can experience culture, try out new hobbies, take classes, join clubs, enjoy film screenings and attend a variety of events. All these programs are meticulously scheduled to promote overall happiness and health.
Services and Amenities
With concierge services and private chauffeur service, we’re always on hand to ensure easy, active, carefree living. With more free time to do the things you love, you can enjoy our movie theater, lounge, patio overlooking Cassidy Park, and exciting planned trips. No matter your preferences, at Waterstone at the Circle, there’s always something to do and plenty of people to socialize and spend time with. It’s a dynamic lifestyle – complete with access to any support that might be needed – that keeps you feeling energetic and engaged.
Opportunities to Enhance Wellness
The more active you are, the younger you tend to feel – or at least that’s what our residents tell us! With a variety of fitness classes, an indoor heated pool, and Train Boston® fitness and aquatic instructors, we can help you stay healthy and well.
Supportive Care Services
While we’re known for premier independent living, supportive care services are also available within our private apartments, allowing residents to receive care and services in the retirement community they love, surrounded by the team, friends and amenities that make them feel young at heart.
Discover an Independent Living Lifestyle That Redefines Aging
Not only do these offerings enhance the ability for seniors to live independently at Waterstone, but they also help them stay involved, social and active. These are key components to feeling healthy – and embracing the changes that come with age. Are you ready to throw away the idea of what aging used to be like? Schedule a visit to learn more about life at The Circle today.
WATERSTONE AT THE CIRCLE. NOW THIS IS HOME.
Waterstone at the Circle offers independent living and supportive care options at the foot of Chestnut Hill in Boston – close to the Chestnut Hill Reservoir and fine retailers and restaurants at The Street. Contact us to learn more or to make an appointment with our Senior Advisor.
When the weather warms up, many people feel inspired to be more active – and that also includes motivation to do more around the home. It’s the perfect opportunity to declutter, organize and prepare for a move to a senior living community.
Are you looking for an excuse to get started or simply don’t know where to start? We’re here to help by sharing the benefits, the reasons, and the right tips to get you started.
Benefits of Decluttering and Downsizing
When many seniors hear the term “downsizing,” they often think of getting rid of many of their belongings in preparation for a move to a smaller home. While this can sometimes be true, downsizing the home doesn’t always mean moving to a smaller space!
As is the case for many seniors, sometimes it simply means upsizing their lifestyle by eliminating the hassles and worries that come along with homeownership and moving to a premier senior living community like Waterstone at Wellesley. Residents enjoy the benefits of less maintenance and upkeep in their apartment, but with the added perk of having a community full of luxury amenities and enriching services right outside their front door. In reality, residents are actually increasing their overall living space!
No matter the reason, it’s the right season to begin the decluttering and downsizing process. Here are some of the benefits:
- Gives inspiration to pack up seasonal clothes and get out warm-weather attire
- Refreshes the home for a new season
- Frees up storage spaces
- Allows you to pass on unneeded items to family or friends
- Provides the opportunity to throw a summer yard sale
- Helps you and your family feel more prepared for the future
Helpful Tips for Seniors and Their Families
If you’re looking for organizing and downsizing tips, you’re in the right place. Pack up your worries and unpack the best place to begin with our expert advice.
Prepare Ahead of Time
The best way to start your cleaning, decluttering and organizing journey is to put one foot in front of the other. It really is that simple. Make a list of spaces that need cleaning, plan to go room by room, and stick to your plan. This ensures you won’t get overwhelmed or make an even bigger mess.
Want to be even more prepared? Make a list of cleaning goals. If you know you want to clean all the windows or dust, write it down. If a room needs more intensive cleaning, gather a list of local cleaners.
One surefire way to make sure you stay on task? Buy and have on hand all the cleaning products you need so you don’t have to stop mid-job to go shopping for supplies.
Involve Family Members
When deep cleaning and downsizing, the more help, the better! Whether you’re downsizing for yourself or for your loved one, be sure to ask for the help you need. Consider:
- Asking older grandkids to assist with moving heavy items
- Designating a friend to take items to a donation box
- Having someone do yardwork or landscaping to amp up real estate value for a move to a senior living community
- Placing one person in charge of cleaning windows, another in charge of boxing items, and so on
Check on Home Safety Items
While you’re in the midst of the process, it’s a great time to check on home safety measures. Are your or a loved one’s fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors working properly? If not, make sure to install fresh batteries. Confirm that fire extinguishers are on hand and tripping hazards have been removed. Remember to replace air and water filters and check to make sure air conditioners work – something that can decrease the risk of heat illnesses as the seasons continue to change.
Don’t Forget Often-Missed Spaces
It’s no secret that rooms like the kitchen, bedrooms, storage areas and living rooms are often the first focus, but don’t forget about spaces like the medicine cabinet, underneath the sink, or the office and filing cabinets.
Making Cleaning and Decluttering Easier – One Move at a Time
We know the downsizing process can be an overwhelming task for even the most organized older adults and family members. The good news? Once you’re done, you can breathe easy – especially with a move to Waterstone at Wellesley where we take care of all maintenance, housekeeping and more. Instead, you can focus on enjoying a summer of joy, freedom and fun!
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. Schedule a visit today to experience our lifestyle and learn how we help seniors thrive.
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ENJOY CLASSES IN OUR FITNESS CENTER
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01- Sunroom Photo
RELAX IN THE WARMTH OF THE SUN
When older adults move into a retirement community, they often find they have a renewed passion for creating a lasting impact. Whether through social activities or giving back, there are many ways for seniors to spend their new-found free time in a way that suits their passions. In fact, many find that volunteer work and community service are the perfect choice.
Benefits of Volunteering for Older Adults
Whether your volunteer pursuits are ongoing, or you simply want to embrace opportunities as they arise, there are many advantages that seniors who volunteer during their retirement can enjoy. The Mayo Clinic shares that improved physical and mental health, a sense of purpose, and nurtured relationships are some of the advantages you may experience when you volunteer.
Increased Satisfaction and Joy
When you’re volunteering, it’s hard not to feel a little spark of happiness in doing something good for others. The reality is that giving back to those in need isn’t just beneficial for the recipient, but it is also a fulfilling experience for the volunteer themselves. Giving back can:
- Increase relaxation
- Enhance happiness
- Decrease anxiety
- Lessen the effects of stress
- Provide a renewed sense of purpose
- Boost self-esteem
- Positively impact confidence
- Strengthen an older adult’s independence
Enhanced Physical Activity
Did you know that volunteering also helps seniors stay active? It’s true, according to the Mayo Clinic; volunteers often report better physical health than non-volunteers! So, if fitness is one of your goals during retirement, finding a volunteer opportunity that also keeps you active is a bonus.
A Decreased Risk of Social Isolation
Volunteering gives seniors the opportunity to be actively engaged with others for a common purpose. It allows them to meet new, interesting people and feel more connected to their community. The more involved a person is, the less likely they will have feelings of isolation and depression. In other words, more volunteering often equates to more socializing, which can sharpen cognitive skills, increase happiness and may even help seniors living longer!
Ways Seniors Are Volunteering
If you have a passion for helping others, giving back or simply caring, options abound! No matter your interests, there are plenty of volunteer opportunities available for you to try out.
- Volunteer at a pet or homeless shelter
- Read to kindergarten classes or tutor high school students
- Spend time with those who are home-bound or are in skilled nursing
- Begin volunteering with a local health care service
- Educate other older adults about their senior care and living options
- Share your talents by teaching a class or organizing activities
- Host monthly dinners for new senior living community residents
- Show prospective residents around your community
- Donate clothing to local shelters or churches
- Volunteer your time at a local food bank
- Ask your local place of worship what their biggest needs are for volunteers
NOW THIS IS HOME.
Waterstone Senior Living communities feature luxury apartments, gourmet dining and socially enriching retirement lifestyles. Our communities are ideally located close to fine retailers, restaurants and area attractions. Learn more about what Waterstone has to offer by scheduling a personal visit today.
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02- Art Studio
