A MacArthur Foundation study found that only 30% of how we age is determined by our genetics. A whopping 70% of how we age is determined by our lifestyle. That’s good news for seniors who are considering a senior living community because the lifestyle offered in many senior communities is shown to help seniors live healthier, happier – and longer.
Socialization Is Key
How senior living communities help older adults live healthier and longer lives start with socialization. Growing evidence suggests that older adults who have strong social networks enjoy a higher quality of life and tend to live longer compared to those with little social support. Seniors are 22% more likely to live longer and lead healthier lives if they socialize regularly.
Studies in social neuroscience support this concept and emphasize just how important human connection and socialization are for seniors. Research published by Senior Digest identified eight ways socialization can impact health:
- Boost the immune system
- Moderate blood pressure
- Improve brain health and memory
- Increase physical activity
- Reduce depression
- Reduce impact of chronic pain
- Improve nutritional intake
- Improve relationships
According to Michael Murphy, Senior Advisor at Waterstone at the Circle in Boston, many seniors find that moving to a senior living community helps them maintain social connections. “On any given day, residents in our independent living community find countless opportunities to engage and connect with others,” he says.
At Waterstone at the Circle, socialization and connection come in many forms. For example, planned social activities may include:
- Chatting with friends over a delicious meal in the dining room
- Joining a gardening, chess, book or other club
- Weekly movie nights in the theater – popcorn included
- Discovering hidden creativity in an art or sculpting class
- Toasting new friends during weekly Happy Hours
- Participating in a group fitness class with Train Boston®
- Volunteer opportunities around the Chestnut Hill neighborhood
While socialization is key to happiness and longevity, there are several other fundamental health benefits to community life.
Staying Active
Seniors who lead more physically active lives have lower rates of coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke and some cancer as well as higher levels of functional and cognitive decline. According to research by the Hebrew University Medical Center, seniors who engage in various exercises tend to live longer. Even those who haven’t been active throughout their lives benefit from physical activity.
Michael says Waterstone residents have access to a wide variety of physical activities and wellness opportunities. “Our amenities, such as an on-site fitness center, indoor swimming pool and a number of activity areas, empower residents to engage in many types of regular physical activity.” He adds, “Group opportunities such as aerobics classes, flexibility and strength workshops, chair yoga and tai chi sessions are just some of the choices available to Waterstone residents who wish to remain active.”
Healthy (and Delicious) Dining Is Always on the Menu
Today’s seniors are thinking beyond calories when it comes to food. They are looking more closely at how food fuels the body and how the right nutrients contribute to successful aging.
Michael says that most retirement communities consult with nutritionists to support senior health and wellness. And some, like Waterstone at the Circle, are taking the initiative even further. “We offer three nutritious meals a day, using only the freshest ingredients possible,” Michael says. “Our menus change seasonally to include locally grown and sourced ingredients that ensure fresh, delicious and nutritious choices.”
Lifelong Learning
Mental workouts are as important as physical workouts. Picking up a new skill or discovering a new interest can slow cognitive decline. Senior living communities regularly present opportunities to learn new skills and sharpen existing talents.
At Waterstone at the Circle, guest lecturers on a range of topics are part of our diverse activity calendar. Waterstone’s proximity to Boston College also opens countless opportunities for growth and lifelong learning for residents who have an interest in signing up for classes.
Live with Less Stress
Constantly feeling stressed can lead to higher blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Seniors who are stressed are more at risk for issues like heart attacks and strokes. Moving to a senior living community is a great way to alleviate stress.
“Residents at Waterstone don’t worry about daily stresses,” says Michael. “Tasks such as cooking, cleaning, yardwork and home maintenance are all taken care of within our independent living apartments, so residents can spend time doing what they enjoy.”
Take Charge
Today’s senior living communities combine a variety of services that affect the overall wellness of residents. These services, along with a clear health promotion strategy, encourage seniors to be more involved in maintaining their own health.
Live Longer at Waterstone at the Circle
Waterstone at the Circle is a premier independent living community for those aged 62+. It offers modern apartments, best-in-class amenities, gourmet dining and a fitness center staffed by Train Boston®. Waterstone at the Circle is widely known for its healthy approach to senior living. It also offers on-site healthcare services provided by a network of respected partners for added peace of mind.
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!