Category: Uncategorized

You have decided to make the move to assisted living – which is exciting! You’ll have everything you need to enjoy a full, active lifestyle, but with the added support of care and services designed to help you live confidently.

But now it’s time to downsize – which can be stressful! If you’re like most people, you’ve accumulated many possessions during your years in your current home. The idea of going through everything may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be, says Devon Sicard, Executive Director of Waterstone at Wellesley.

“Downsizing your possessions can actually be a fun and joyful experience, if you’re in the right frame of mind about it,” she says. “Yes, it can be hard to leave a family home, but at the same time, you’re making a very positive move to provide yourself with the best possible lifestyle along with the support you need to stay independent. This is the perfect time to let go of the things in your house – and your life – that aren’t giving you joy. That way, when you move to your new place, you’ll be surrounded only by things that are meaningful and that you love.”

If you’re considering a move to assisted living or if you’ve already selected a community and are getting ready to dive into the downsizing process, here are some of our expert tips to help make the process manageable, enjoyable and smooth:

1. Start early.

If at all possible, start downsizing in advance – way in advance. If you begin the process before it’s strictly necessary, you’ll feel less rushed and will have a lot less stress weighing on you. Some of our residents have started the downsizing process a year or so in advance of their move to our community! Giving yourself plenty of time means that you have the opportunity to do several sweeps through your belongings if necessary, giving you that much more peace of mind about the process.

Even if you don’t have years of advance planning in place for your move, make sure that you leave yourself as much time as possible to do your downsizing. You don’t want to try and soldier through in a day or a weekend – that’s a recipe for burnout. Even if you currently live in a condo or apartment, the process will likely take longer than you expect. Expert downsizers say that you should plan for three weeks to a month, minimum, to complete the whole downsizing process.

2. Give yourself a “win.”

It’s tempting to start downsizing in the places you use the most, like your bedroom or the kitchen. However, it’s best to start small and give yourself a “win” by completing a tiny spot in record time. It’s best to tackle something like a linen closet, broom closet or a laundry room when you’re starting the process. You’ll have the endorphin boost of checking one room off your list, and it will give you a chance to see your progress grow. It’s also a great “test run” to gauge how much help you’ll need, how many boxes you’ll really require and the like.

3. Get rid of duplicates.

We have a tendency to collect multiples of items we use a lot. Think of sheets, towels, kitchen tools … the list can be endless. Start by tossing out anything that’s stained, broken or has simply run its course (you don’t want to take old sheets with you to your new apartment). Next, go through and look at what items you actually use on a regular basis. If you have items that you sometimes use maybe once a year, go ahead and get rid of it. If you need something like it in the future, you can always borrow one from friends or family (or buy a new one if you find out it’s absolutely necessary).

4. Say “no” to “maybe.”

When it comes to downsizing, you’ll need to be swift and brutal. “Maybes” are difficult when you’re trying to streamline your belongings. We know that there will be items that you hem and haw over. Many of them will pull at your heartstrings (think crayon drawings that your now-adult children drew in kindergarten). You may be tempted to put items aside to store in a storage unit. Our best advice? Don’t do it. If you do, you’ll find that your “maybe” pile ends up larger than your “keep” and “trash” piles combined. Listen to your gut and make quick decisions as you’re going through things. If you’re finding it too hard, consider enlisting friends or family members to help you “talk things out.”

5. Digitize your collections.

A lot of us have things we enjoy collecting, whether it’s spoons from the places we’ve traveled, colored glass or carved elephants. It can be hard to say goodbye to these things that have meaning to us, but understand that if you keep them, they’ll eat up a lot of valuable space (or will stay in a box in the closet). Instead, choose a few gems from your collection – the creme de la creme – and take high-quality photos of the rest of your collection. You can convert those photos into a beautiful coffee table book that allows you to revisit your collectables without having them physically with you. (Then you have fewer things to dust, too.)

6. Make it fun.

Downsizing can be a perfect opportunity to pass along family stories and heirlooms and make some great memories while you’re at it. If possible, enlist the help of friends and family to make the process a lot more fun. This is a great time to pass along heirlooms or special items to children and grandchildren – why wait until they read your will? You may be surprised at what items hold meaning for each individual. As you’re packing, feel free to talk about the stories of each item, share memories and reminisce about the good times you’ve had in the house. Even if your family members haven’t lived in the house for a long while, this is a chance for them to remember the past and say their goodbyes to the home they knew and loved.

Remember that it’s never too late or too early to start downsizing in anticipation of moving into assisted living. By looking at it as a positive experience, you can make this a beautiful way to turn the page and start a new, exciting chapter in your 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 781.591.7113.

“Waterstone at the Circle is unique in the world of retirement living because of our wonderful urban location,” says Kevin Defayette, Executive Director of Waterstone at the Circle. “We wanted to create a space where active, urban seniors could enjoy an energetic, independent lifestyle while also having access to support they may need in the future. Our goal is to be a destination for Bostonians and newcomers alike, building a unique community that blends urban with suburban, history and modernity, old and new … just like the city of Boston itself.”

There are countless opportunities to explore, learn and do in Boston – so much that we aren’t even going to scratch the surface of this historic, rich and intriguing town. However, we did want to put together a small look at what the Waterstone lifestyle is like for our residents.

“All of Boston is at our residents’ fingertips,” says Kevin. “Our team members and concierge crew are well-versed in everything there is to do around here, and we’re always ready to help residents get out and explore.”

Here are just a few experiences that Waterstone residents can enjoy:

Outdoor Attractions

Boston is truly a perfect blend of old and new, with Victorian-era neighborhoods snuggled up next to glass-and-steel buildings and shopping galleries. Here’s just a sampling of what Boston has available for visitors and residents alike:

• Historic Boston Harbor has a little bit of something for everyone. In the summer months, you can enjoy a ferry boat ride, go on a whale watch or paddle around on a Boston Duck Tour.
• The Freedom Trail is a 2.5 mile red-brick trail through Boston’s historic neighborhoods that tells the story of the American Revolution. From the Old North Church to Faneuil Hall, and through resonant burying grounds, visit the temples and landmarks of the Revolutionary Era.
• The Boston Public Garden is the nation’s very first public garden and is one of the most beautiful spots in the city. The Parks and Recreation department maintains the Victorian traditions the park was founded on and features many unusual plants. Must-see spots include the Lagoon, the many monuments and fountains, and the Swan Boats.
• The Esplanade is a three-mile stretch that goes from the Museum of Science to the Boston University Bridge. Along the route, you’ll find sculptures, sailboats (in the Charles River, naturally), swing sets and so much more. It’s one of the most beautiful places to see views of the city, and it makes the perfect spot to watch a glorious summertime sunset.

Museums

Boston has some of the world’s best and most famous museums, and many of them are reopened to the public. Arts and culture lovers can come back time and time again to enjoy permanent exhibits as well as special events and touring exhibits.

• The Museum of Science is a great place for kids of all ages (including grown-ups). With IMAX shows, ever-changing exhibits and the iconic T-rex, it’s a fun place to experience the wonders of science and learn about the world around us.
• The Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is one of Boston’s most unique museums and most treasured attractions. This 1902 home is a work of art in and of itself, and the impressive collection of art is the icing on the cake. Walk through galleries filled with works from Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Degas, Rafael and many others. The stunning courtyard of the home makes a centerpiece that’s filled with gorgeous, lush vegetation.
• The Institute of Contemporary Art, located on the waterfront and offering an amazing view of the Harbor and the Boston skyline, houses some of the finest works from today’s influential and innovative artists. The huge outdoor space is worth the visit alone, and it’s a great place to enjoy a hot summer’s day.

Shopping

• Once an historic marketing hall and public meeting spot, Faneuil Hall Marketplace is a Bostonian destination for shopping, dining and people-watching. The ground floor is filled with market halls and food stalls, while the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company of Massachusetts on the top floor gives a peek into Boston’s military history.
• One of the world’s most famous shopping districts, Newbury Street, is found in Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood. It’s known colloquially as the “Rodeo Drive of the East,” and is filled with a collection of fine art galleries, beauty salons and top designer shops.

Medical Community

It should come as no surprise that Boston is home to world-class healthcare. With research hospitals, university medical centers and top-ranked medical institutions, residents at Waterstone at the Circle have easy access to world-class care, specialists and treatments.

Transportation

If you enjoy not having to drive, Boston is the city for you. With an incredibly walkable downtown and an extensive transportation service (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, or MBTA), it’s incredibly easy to get around town. Locals use the subway, bus, commuter rail and ferry to navigate to favorite spots and go to and from attractions. In fact, you’ll discover that many city dwellers end up ditching their cars entirely.

For those wishing to get out of town, it’s easy to do so in Boston. It’s surrounded by many interstate highways that can take you anywhere you want to go. It’s also home to Boston Logan International Airport, which has direct flights to many major destinations within the United States and throughout the world.

Waterstone at the Circle does have an underground parking garage for residents who wish to bring a personal vehicle (we, of course, want you to have the freedom to come and go as you desire). We also offer concierge transportation services to residents, chauffeuring them to appointments, events and anything else they so desire.

If you’d like more information about living in Boston, or if you’d like to find out more about how Waterstone at the Circle provides carefree senior living to urban adults looking for adventure and independence in a city they love, contact us! We’d love to share our favorite things about our fair city and help you live the urban lifestyle you deserve.

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

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 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!

What does “independence” mean to you? For many older adults, it means having the flexibility and freedom to forge their own path in retirement. Today’s seniors are energetic, active and healthy individuals who are looking at this next stage of life as an exciting new chapter instead of a time to wind down, says Devon Sicard, Executive Director of Waterstone at Wellesley.

“People are living longer thanks to medical advances, which means that retirees at the young age of 65 are still ready to go on new adventures,” she says. “In fact, active seniors have a benefit over younger people in that they no longer have to work to support themselves, which means they have all the time in the world to pick up new hobbies, travel or do whatever else they’ve been wanting to do.”

Devon says that, for many seniors, moving to an independent living community can be an excellent start toward building the retirement of their dreams. “Independent living is the best of both worlds for many retirees,” she says. “It pairs the maintenance-free living and the comfort of a community built for the needs of aging adults … with all the independence and freedom you desire. Many of our current residents say they wish they had moved into our community sooner.”

According to Devon, an independent living lifestyle provides a wide variety of benefits for today’s seniors, which is helping re-shape what senior life looks and feels like. “It’s really exciting to us when a younger senior couple moves into our community, because it means they’re making an investment in their future,” she says. “More and more, we’re seeing new retirees make a move sooner – enjoying the maintenance-free lifestyle we provide at Waterstone at Wellesley and embracing the true freedom that retirement brings.”

Here are just some of the ways that independent living lifestyle – such as that of Waterstone at Wellesley – can benefit active seniors:

Maintenance-free living.

Owning your own home has long been the quintessential American Dream. And yes, owning your home free and clear means you no longer have to worry about a monthly mortgage payment. However, you’re still responsible for home repairs, insurance, taxes, utilities and all the upkeep that it takes to keep your home in good shape. After decades of raising a family, cleaning a home and paying for surprise repairs, many seniors are ready to put all that hassle behind them. And for good reason. Saying goodbye to chores and tasks gives you the freedom to truly enjoy your retirement. Would you rather spend your golden years trimming trees, shoveling snow or cleaning house? Or would you rather use that time to make new friends, learn new things, travel around the world, pick up new hobbies and otherwise enjoy your life?

An independent living community gives you the opportunity to say goodbye to maintenance while still having the privacy and comfort of your very own home. Every aspect of maintenance, from yardwork to repairs to even cleaning the house, is taken care of by a professional maintenance staff. It’s a little bit like a five-star, all-inclusive resort … only you never have to leave and can make it your home for real.

A socially active lifestyle.

Making and keeping friends is one of the great joys of life. But even active, independent seniors can find it hard to make new friends, or find themselves becoming lonelier as friends and family start moving away for careers, families and other opportunities. Moving into independent living can provide you with an instant circle of friends in the same stage of life who are looking for similar things out of their golden years. And it’s incredibly easy to be connected and social. Waterstone at Wellesley has a full-time life enrichment director who creates a calendar that will have you as busy as you like. You can enjoy a meal with friends in one of our dining venues, take a lifelong learning class, join a resident-run club, pick up a new fitness regime … the most difficult part will be narrowing down what you want to do.

Peace of mind for the future.

Enjoying your retirement worry-free is exactly what a healthy, active older adult like you wants. At Waterstone at Wellesley, you’ll receive that peace of mind for the present and in the future. Not only do we offer access to on-demand supportive services through premier healthcare partners right in the comfort of our residents’ apartments, but we also are home to an assisted living community for those who require a little more assistance to continue enjoying their active life. It’s confidence that our residents count on.

You’re in charge.

Moving to independent living while you’re young and independent means you’re taking charge of your life course. Instead of waiting until something happens and you’re forced to make a decision that might not be in your best interest, you’re able to choose a lifestyle that suits you now – and later. Waterstone at Wellesley has been designed to help seniors live healthy, active, independent lives, no matter what stage of their senior journey they’re in. By joining us while you’re active, you become part of the social fabric of our community and are able to shape your golden years as you wish.

The world is your oyster.

Ultimately, an independent living lifestyle allows active seniors to live out their dreams and goals, says Devon. “Choosing a community like Waterstone at Wellesley gives you freedom,” she says. “Our goal is always to help our residents create a retirement roadmap that gets them excited about the future. We believe that this is truly your time to enjoy everything that life and the world has to offer, and we’re here to help you do just that.”

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 781.591.7113.

Spring has sprung, and with it, a renewed sense of purpose and joy for many people. Kevin Defayette, Executive Director of Waterstone at the Circle, says that after the events of 2020, this spring is the perfect opportunity for urban seniors to upsize their lifestyle by making a move.

“Spring is a great time to ‘spring ahead’ into a new chapter of your retirement lifestyle,” he says. “Moving into a retirement community like Waterstone at the Circle pairs a carefree lifestyle with an upscale, downtown aesthetic. No matter when you choose to move into a community, it’s a great opportunity – but spring is an especially fantastic time.”

One of the obvious reasons, Kevin says, is because of the weather. “The temperature is warm enough that you won’t have to deal with chilly wind and snow, but it’s also not so hot that you’ll be melting,” he says.

Spring is also one of the best times of the year to put a home on the market. “The housing market has been incredibly hot over the past few years – not even COVID-19 could slow it down,” he says. “Families will be looking for a new place that they can move into before summer, and the housing inventory is low right now. If you put your house on the market this spring, you’ll more than likely find yourself with multiple bids in a very short amount of time.”

Another great reason to move in spring is because you can get settled into your new location just in time to enjoy the summer concerts, festivals and other events that take place. “We’re anticipating lots of outdoor events this summertime,” says Kevin. “COVID-19 vaccines have rolled out, and all of us are ready to get out and safely enjoy everything our community has to offer. And wouldn’t you rather enjoy a relaxing summer doing the things you love instead of dealing with the hassles of homeownership?”

If making a move to carefree senior living is on your spring to-do list, here are some things that can make the process as streamlined and as organized as possible.

Start early and plan ahead.

Unsurprisingly, spring is one of the busiest times for moving companies, which means that they can be booked months in advance. As soon as you have a move-in date for your new senior living apartment, connect with moving companies to see when you can get scheduled. You’ll want to have enough time to get everything organized, but you also don’t want it to drag on for months.

Downsize and declutter.

Moving from a family home into an urban retirement apartment means going through years of “stuff” and getting rid of things – probably lots of things. This is another reason why it’s important to plan ahead – going through your belongings will likely take more time than you expect. However, it can also be quite therapeutic and fun. Start by going through each room and singling out what items you absolutely must take with you to your new space. (It helps to have a floor plan and measurements of the apartment you’re moving into.) Then, go through each room and decide for each item whether to keep, donate or throw away. Helpful hint: this is a great time to pass on heirlooms or extra furniture to adult children, grandchildren and friends. Another helpful hint: consider hiring a senior move expert who can help coordinate the whole thing from downsizing to packing to even selling your home for you.

Find the fix-up spots.

As you’re paring down your items, make a list of everything you’ll need to do in order to get your home ready to list. Chipped paint, squeaky doors, leaky faucets and drafty windows are all small things that are easy to fix and make a big impact for buyers. Be sure to also see if there are any larger issues that you’ll need to document and perhaps improve before listing as well.

Clean as you go.

It’s no surprise that a clean house sells more quickly than a house that needs some TLC, and since you’re pulling everything out of the corners and the closets, this is the perfect opportunity to do a thorough spring cleaning. Shampoo the carpets, wash the drapes, clean off the baseboards and get into every nook and cranny. Our mothers once told us that it’s “easier to clean an already-clean house,” so doing this work now will make it easier if you have to straighten up for a last-minute house showing.

Pack as you go, too.

Start setting your home staging by packing away all your extra items and belongings. Pack away personal things like expensive heirlooms, personal photos and extra end tables (among other things). Take out-of-season clothes out of your closets, including winter boots, scarves and mittens. Anything you can get packed up now will make your upcoming move that much easier.

Enlist help.

Moving is a big undertaking no matter how big or little your home. That’s where friends and family can come in handy. Perhaps your kids will let you store some boxes at their house, or perhaps your friend can help shuttle donation items to the charity of your choice. This can be great bonding time and an opportunity for your children and grandchildren to reminisce about their favorite memories of a certain item or a time at your home.

“Moving to Waterstone at the Circle this spring is one of the best decisions urban seniors can make,” says Kevin. “Boston has so much to offer in the spring and summer months and moving to historic Cleveland Circle means you’ll be in the center of everything. You’ll be able to enjoy your favorite festivals, events, activities and more along with the maintenance-free retirement lifestyle you deserve.”

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

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 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!