Categories
High Ridge

Cultivating Gratitude and Positivity During Retirement

Smiling senior friends wearing knitted sweaters and cardigans walking along park alley and chatting animatedly with each other, picturesque view on background

Positive thinking can provide many benefits, such as an improved immune system, reduced stress and a lower risk of certain conditions such as heart disease. It also can help you live longer – and live better. A 2019 study found that older adults who practice positivity and gratitude have an 11 to 15 percent longer lifespan.

“Positivity and gratitude, like physical fitness, is something you can gain through exercise,” says Wendy Kaufman, Executive Director of Waterstone on High Ridge. “Some people are naturally positive, while it’s more difficult for others… but that doesn’t mean that you can’t achieve positivity in your own life, no matter your natural inclinations.”

As we get older, it can sometimes seem like there’s less to be positive about, but by ‘flipping the script’, retirees and older adults can reap amazing benefits in their retirement years and beyond.

“Retirees who stay active, have an optimistic outlook, and are actively grateful have been shown to live longer, happier and a more fulfilled lives,” she explains. “Although aging can bring worries and stress at times, by practicing gratitude, you can see the benefits and joys of any stage of life.”

As the seasons begin to change, it’s the perfect time to reflect and make changes to your outlook. Cultivating an attitude of gratitude will be a wonderful way to round out the year and set yourself up for success. Whether you’re just entering your retirement years or have been enjoying your retirement for a while now, here are five steps you can take to bring more positivity and appreciation into your life.

1. Create a vision for your future.

Retirement these days doesn’t mean sitting back and letting the world pass you by. For many, it’s a time to chase those dreams you’ve always had (but never had the time to pursue). But dreams don’t just happen – in order to make them come true, you have to have a plan. While you’ve probably done extensive planning for your retirement on a financial level, have you made your plan on a personal level? Think of this as a golden opportunity to map out how this next chapter of life will look. Having goals and a roadmap to get there inspires excitement, hopefulness and a sense of accomplishment. Having something to strive for every day is incredibly fulfilling and makes it easy to look forward to each new day … which is a core tenant of positivity.

2. Be actively grateful.

Sure, getting older can be a pain at times. But it isn’t all bad. Getting older means you have more wisdom, more experience and a stronger sense of self. You probably have lots of things in life that you’re thankful for, from a loving family to being able to stay active or anything else that brings you happiness. Practicing the act of gratitude – which simply means you intentionally think about things in your life that you’re thankful for – can shed a whole new light on this whole “getting older” thing.

Gratitude can be practiced every day, and doesn’t require you to meditate extensively or go on a soul-searching mission. It can be as simple as saying a heartfelt “thank you” to your barista or writing a thank-you note to a neighbor. Some individuals like to keep gratitude journals and write down something every day that they’re thankful for. Think about the things that bring you joy – and then actively seek them out. For some, that’s being in nature. For others, it’s volunteering their time and efforts. Whatever it is that fills you up, seek it out – and then take time to think about how grateful you are for that beauty.

3. Stay healthy.

When we don’t feel good, it’s pretty hard to be grateful and positive, so it’s no wonder that health and wellness is such a big focus for older adults. When you take care of your whole person – mind, body and soul – you end up feeling your best, which makes it a lot easier to be a positive person. Here are a few things you can start (or continue doing) to help keep yourself happy, fulfilled and positive:

  • Eat a healthy diet filled with fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, lean proteins, low-fat dairy and whole grains.
  • Get regular exercise (experts recommend approximately 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week for the average adult).
  • Schedule regular checkups with your doctor to make sure you’re doing everything you need to ensure optimal health.

4. Seek out and nurture connections.

Our friends, family and loved ones are the most important things in our lives (and something we’re definitely grateful for). When we form meaningful connections, our life becomes richer, we become happier and life is just … better. In retirement, you finally have all the time in the world to dedicate yourself to finding those deep, meaningful relationships that fill you up and make life worth living. Of course, spending time with the people you already know and love is very fulfilling, but this is also a great chance to branch out, meet new people and broaden your social circle. Here are just a few ways to do that:

  • Join a club or an activity group.
  • Volunteer your time to a cause.
  • Schedule regular meetups or check-ins with friends and family.
  • Be the one to reach out and set up a dinner, coffee, lunch or a walk – you may be amazed how quickly someone says “Yes!”

5. Start something new.

A lot of retirees dream about this time as a chance to not have to work anymore. But many individuals find themselves going back into the working world after some time off – sometimes, they start new careers or even their own business. That’s because using our skills to create something or do something positive is incredibly fulfilling. The most successful older individuals see retirement as a chance to start something new, not necessarily to stop doing things. In order to cultivate your attitude of gratitude, look for new opportunities to learn, do, explore, experience and enjoy. Here are a few ways to do that:

  • Go back to school, whether it’s to learn a new skill or study a subject that’s always fascinated you.
  • Travel to a place you’ve always wanted to go – if it’s a foreign country, you might want to start by learning the language.
  • Pick up a favorite hobby from childhood that’s fallen by the wayside.
  • Think about a career or job you’ve always wanted to do and see if there are opportunities for you to pursue it.

We can’t stop the aging process – but we can affect how we react to it. By entering into your senior years with a sense of gratitude and positivity, you’ll find joy, meaning and happiness without even trying.

Welcome Home – Become One of Our First Residents!

We look forward to introducing you to the definitive, distinctive lifestyle at Waterstone on High Ridge and welcoming you as a new resident at 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.

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.

Categories
Lexington

Why You Shouldn’t Delay Your Move to Carefree Senior Living

Some think that moving to senior living is something that should be delayed as long as possible – mostly due to the preconceived notion that senior living is for ‘old’ people. But that’s truly an outdated concept.

If you wait to move into senior living until you need supportive services or another form of assistance, you’ll be missing out on a lot of benefits that this lifestyle offers. Moving while you’re still active, healthy and in your prime opens up a world of opportunity for your retirement years – and beyond.

Today’s senior living communities are designed with the active, independent and full-of-life Baby Boomers in mind. Here are the top reasons why seniors are considering downsizing and moving to senior living sooner rather than later.

Never having to deal with home maintenance again.

Sure, owning your own home is fantastic, especially if the mortgage has been paid off. But not having a house payment doesn’t mean not having to pay for a bunch of other things such as home repairs, utility bills, real estate taxes, homeowners insurance … and that’s just for starters. House cleaning, yard maintenance, appliance repairs, grocery shopping and cooking all incur costs, even if you’re doing them yourself and not hiring them out. When you think about it, that’s a lot of time and a lot of work that could be better spent doing things like visiting friends, going on adventures, learning a new hobby or anything else that appeals to you. Moving to a senior living community means that you no longer have to deal with all those tedious chores. It’s all taken care of for you, meaning your time is finally yours to do with as you wish.

A thriving social calendar.

The ironic thing about retiring is that you have much more time to spend with family and friends … but it’s often harder than ever to have a social life. Aging often means that friends move away, your routines change (for example, you aren’t seeing your co-workers every day as you did before), and things can get a little boring. Not so at a senior living community. You’ll find a social and entertainment calendar full of things like fitness classes, educational seminars, hobby groups, book clubs, social outings and much more. Plus, it’s easier than ever to make new friends and cultivate meaningful relationships since you’re at a place filled with other active retirees. You certainly won’t be bored – in fact, you may find that you’re busier and more social than ever before.

No worries about safety and security.

Sometimes, having a home (and the responsibilities that go with it) can come with worries about safety and security. For example, if you decide to take a week-long trip, you need to coordinate someone to watch the house, water the plants and grab your mail. You may also wonder about your own security if you, say, start having difficulty going up and down the stairs. None of those things are a worry at a senior living community. For starters, there’s someone on staff 24/7. If you decide to go out of town, the staff will happily watch over your home for you. And since it’s a community designed specifically for older adults, you won’t have to worry about things in your home that would give you difficulty if your mobility changes, such as stairs.

Enjoying your own private chef for every meal.
Having someone else cook a delicious meal for us is one of life’s pleasures, no matter how much you enjoy cooking for yourself. Get ready to be pampered with white-glove service at a senior living community like Waterstone of Lexington. With a highly trained culinary team and a chef de cuisine presiding over them, every day is a literal feast of delights. Food is incredibly important to our health, well-being and enjoyment, and today’s senior living chefs are ensuring that life tastes great. Seasonal menus with locally sourced ingredients. Made-to-order dishes. Everything from fancy to quick and easy. You can always cook something yourself in your own gourmet kitchen, but when you’d rather be served, the restaurant is open.

Staying healthy with programs to meet your needs.

Aging well and staying healthy is easy when you have all the tools at your disposal – and the time to dedicate to your health. Everything at a senior living community is designed with an older adult’s optimal wellness in mind. Not only are there countless fitness opportunities with a state-of-the-art gym, classes and personal trainers, but you also have every other aspect of wellness covered. A health center on-site means that you’re able to stay on top of any medical issues and get the treatments you need to stay healthy. Your mind stays sharp and engaged with enjoyable activities and events. Your body is nourished by delicious food. Your soul is enriched with social and cultural opportunities and the freedom to do whatever you want, whenever you want. Everything you need to thrive is right there within reach.

Easy, at-your-service living.

Are you tired of having a car and driving everywhere? No worries – your senior living community provides chauffeured transportation and easy access to anywhere you want to go. Want to enjoy cultural opportunities but don’t necessarily want to research and purchase tickets on your own? Your senior living concierge can arrange everything from concert tickets to pet walkers and just about any other assistance you might require.

As you can see, retiring to a senior living community now instead of later may just be the thing you need to enjoy your golden years to the fullest. For seniors in the Middlesex County region, you’ll find a luxury retirement lifestyle at Waterstone of Lexington, opening late summer 2022. Contact us to learn more.

Become One of Our First Residents!

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 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 luxurious 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. Our rental community draws influence from Lexington, MA’s tradition of innovative, modern architecture and the open, natural environment around it.

Step inside 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.

Categories
The Circle

Tips for Selling Your Home This Fall

Red for sale sign outside a two story home

There’s really never been a better time to sell your home. The Boston housing market is on fire! Home values and home sales exploded in 2020, and that rapid growth and demand aren’t showing signs of slowing down just yet.

“This is really a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for home sellers, especially seniors who are considering downsizing,” says Kevin Defayette, Executive Director of Waterstone at the Circle. “By taking advantage of the seller’s market, you’re able to sell your home for top dollar, move out before you have to get your house ready for winter and set yourself up for success in a premier retirement community like Waterstone at the Circle.”

Kevin says that no one knows for sure when the housing market will cool off. “Now that businesses are bringing people back into the office, especially those in major cities, it’s possible that the demand for housing will slow down,” Kevin explains. “But if moving to a retirement community has been on your mind, right now is the perfect time – you’ll be able to sell quickly without having to make huge and costly renovations. Then, you can sit back, relax and get ready for a new and vibrant chapter of life.”

Making Your Home a Hot Commodity When the Weather Cools

Before you place that FOR SALE sign in your yard and start scheduling showings, it’s important to thoughtfully plan your next steps. A hot real estate market means that you’ll be able to sell quickly, but you also want to make sure you’re getting the best possible price for your home. Buyers these days are savvy, and although they’re willing to overlook things like carpeting and older kitchens, there are still things you can do to make your home more attractive and desirable. Here are some expert tips to help you navigate this unique atmosphere.

1. Hire a professional Realtor®.

Today’s best Realtors® understand the variables that go into selling a home. You’ll want to make sure you choose someone who has extensive knowledge of your neighborhood, who knows how much you could potentially get for your house, who will price the listing correctly and who can market your home to the fullest. Professional photos, clean staging and marketing in the proper channels will ensure that your home sells quickly and for top dollar.

2. Be flexible with showings and open houses.

Depending on where you live and what your agent suggests, you may not even need to hold an open house. If you do, consider holding a “virtual” open house or some other format that allows buyers to socially distance while also getting the most eyes possible on your property. These days, people who are looking for homes start online, so a virtual tour or open house may be the norm. To that end, it’s important to be even more flexible when it comes to tours and showings of your home. You may want to consider spending a few days at a hotel or family member’s home, so you don’t have to scramble when someone wants to come check it out.

3. Start packing and decluttering ASAP.

One thing’s for sure: If you’re selling your home, that means you’ll be moving somewhere else. Get a head start on your packing and downsizing as early as possible. Go through your items and sort everything into keep, donate or toss piles. You may want to hire a senior move specialist to assist you with this – as they can handle everything from top to bottom: decluttering, setting up estate sales, coordinating donations and even moving your items to your new place!

4. Embrace the beauty of the season.

Fall is a gorgeous time of year filled with rich colors, delicious scents and cozy textures. Put buyers in an autumnal mood by tastefully decorating your home to match the season. Decorate your front porch and entrance with colorful mums, pumpkins, gourds and other fall features. Inside, use color and texture to instill a fall feel. Don’t forget the power of scent – flameless candles and plug-ins can thrill the nose and make your home feel even cozier.

5. Make minor repairs; don’t renovate.

Consider the law of diminishing returns. Making minor repairs and upgrades can give your home a facelift quickly and affordably. Things like a fresh coat of paint on the walls, fixing broken or sticky doors, or installing a new water heater can make your home look and feel new again. Don’t spring for a costly remodel, though. Not only will you potentially not recoup the cost, but it also takes time – especially these days when getting contractors can be a real waiting game. Buyers will overlook outdated features in order to get into the homeownership game.

6. Consider curb appeal.

The first thing buyers will see about your home is the outside – so make sure it’s picture-perfect. Touch up any peeling paint, trim bushes, clean out mulch beds and make sure that leaves are raked and bagged. You may want to hire a landscaper to add some seasonal touches to your garden beds for additional curb appeal.

7. Price your home right.

This is where having a professional Realtor® really comes into play. Setting your home at a certain number will determine how many searches the property comes up in, as well as determining whether or not potential buyers will immediately consider (or dismiss) it. There’s a reason why agents price things at $299,950 instead of $300,000 – it’s a psychological trigger that makes things appear affordable versus “too much.” The trick these days is to get as many people looking as possible at an entry price that’s just right. That way, you’ll more than likely be looking at a bidding war.

8. Be ready for your next move.

If you’re deciding to downsize to a retirement community, take some time before listing your home to tour and reserve your new home at a place you love. Since the market is so hot, you may find yourself moving sooner than you expect!

Selling your home can be a lot of work, but it is also very exciting. With proper planning, a smart strategy and knowledge of your next steps, you’ll be able to get your home sold quickly and get yourself into your new home just in time to enjoy all your favorite fall and winter celebrations.

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!

Categories
Wellesley

8 Tips To Help Your Aging Parents Move into Assisted Living

senior and adult daughter laughing and looking at a tablet together

Does Mom need assisted living? That’s a question that many adult children – and their parents – find themselves asking at a certain point in the aging journey. On one hand, you may logically realize that assisted living would be a real benefit. On the other hand, you may find yourself saying things like, Dad seems too young for assisted living. or Mom is still healthy, she just needs some help with a few things every day. Even if your loved one is healthy and active, that doesn’t mean they can’t benefit from assisted living, says Devon Sicard, Executive Director of Waterstone at Wellesley.

“Many seniors and their adult children can become resistant when they hear the words assisted living because they have a lot of assumptions that simply aren’t true,” Devon says. “Assisted living isn’t just for older adults who aren’t able to perform the activities of daily life. In fact, assisted living can be home to many active and independent seniors who simply want the peace of mind and convenience a community provides.”

Whatever the situation, when an individual decides to move into senior living, there are a lot of things at play that can be emotionally, mentally and physically taxing. “As an adult child of someone moving into senior living, you will end up playing a major role in the process,” Devon explains. “It can be relatively easy, but it can also be drawn out and difficult – a lot of it will depend on your involvement and how you help in various situations.”

If you’re an adult child of a parent or parents who have decided to move into assisted living, how can you help? What’s the best way to go about things? Here are some of our tried-and-true tips to help you assist a loved one as they prepare and move into this new phase of life.

Tour communities with your parents.
While ultimately the choice of community belongs to your Mom and Dad, it always helps to have another brain and pair of eyes to help narrow down the options and choose the best option for the individual. It’s a good idea, if your parents are amenable to it, to tour the various communities they’ve chosen with them (and maybe on your own, too). Since you won’t be living in the community, you have a different viewpoint on everything and perhaps can shed light on different aspects that your parents might miss. You can also keep track of the positives, negatives and variables at each community, which can help you and your parents sit down and weigh options against each other.

Help them work through the downsizing process.

Once a community has been decided upon, there’s yet another hurdle: downsizing and selling Mom and Dad’s current home. This is in and of itself is a huge undertaking that requires a lot of planning and work. Be a resource for your parents – let them know you’re able and willing to help, which they may need, especially if they haven’t moved in a while. When moving into assisted living, many older adults will need to let go of a significant number of personal items. Being open and available to help your parents – physically and emotionally – can help make the situation a little easier.

Give your parents time to grieve.

Even if you and your parents know that moving into assisted living is the right thing, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t sadness and uncertainty that come with the decision. In a way, moving into assisted living is the closing of one chapter and realizing that Mom and Dad are getting older. Give your parents (and even yourself) a chance to grieve and process the change. But at the same time, understand that this move is a good thing and that it means the start of a new chapter of life that can be embraced to the fullest.

Plan ahead.

It’s always easiest to make plans when there’s a deadline in place. So, the first step is to determine when exactly your parent or loved one intends to move into assisted living. Once you have a general idea, work backward from there. When should you move into the community? When should the house be put on the market to be sold? When should you have everything packed up and ready to go? Even if the move isn’t for six months or longer, it’s good to have a general idea of when your parents want to make the move – that way, you can start putting plans into place to make the transition that much smoother.

Figure out how to move.

The act of moving can be quite stressful. There’s no need to add anxiety and uncertainty to it. Some experts suggest that parents choose and move into assisted living before selling their current home because that simply helps avoid rushing for rushing’s sake. If that works for you, great! If not, work with your parents, their real estate agent and the community staff to coordinate everything in order to transition easily. You may want to see if it’s possible for Mom and Dad to find a temporary space to get the home sold before moving into assisted living. Or, can they move into assisted living and then put plans in order to sell their current home? A lot depends on the individual situation, and there’s no right or wrong answer.

Get their new home ready.

When it comes time for the physical move, adult children can be an enormous help. While there’s a level of excitement that comes with moving, there’s also a level of anxiety – and having someone to talk and work through the process can make it easier, calmer and a lot more fun. Talk with your mom and dad about their new space and how they want their belongings organized. Take measurements of their new apartment or home and work with them to figure out a floor plan that incorporates their necessary items and also cues you into things you might need to buy. Once you have a plan in place, talk with the community staff to see about getting the new home set up – earlier is always preferable.

Clear your schedule.

On moving day, it always helps to have a helping hand – and your parents will appreciate any assistance you can give. Clear your schedule so on the actual day of moving, you can be ready and available to help assist with the moving truck, unpack at the community, clear away trash and detritus and generally help Mom and Dad settle in. Depending on your parent’s abilities and mental state, you may want to talk with the community staff to get their advice and opinions.

Give them space.

Moving your parents into assisted living may make you feel a little sad, anxious and worried – in other words, how they might have felt when you went to college or moved away from home. Although you may want to hover over your parents to see how they’re doing and help them get settled, the best thing to do is, more than likely, give them space to settle in on their own. This can be hard, but staying out of their way will give Mom and Dad the opportunity to adjust to their new lifestyle and start making a new routine.

Moving your parents into assisted living may feel a bit unnerving, especially if you’ve been spending lots of time helping care for them. It’s important to understand that moving them into assisted living isn’t an end – it’s a new beginning. Eventually, you and your parents will find your groove and allow the benefits of their new community to fully blossom … leaving you with peace of mind and the ability to enjoy each day as it comes.

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 are 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.

Categories
Westchester

Age Gracefully with a Wellness-Focused Lifestyle

Group of seniors exercising together

Do you know someone who, no matter their age, always appears to be youthful and vibrant? We all seem to be striving for eternal youth, and some individuals are more successful at it than others. What’s their secret? The answer lies in their lifestyles, says Charlene Yerkovich, Senior Advisor of Waterstone of Westchester, a new luxury rental retirement community coming to White Plains, NY.

“Aging gracefully is simply about caring for yourself through whole-person wellness,” says Charlene. “It’s not about trying to look younger than you are or even act younger than you are. It’s about living a lifestyle that helps you stay healthy in mind, body and soul. It’s not about fighting the aging process; it’s about embracing it and taking steps to care for yourself at every stage.”

The first step, Charlene says, is to forget everything that society tells you about growing older. “Look in any magazine and you’ll see countless messages about how cherished youth and beauty is, but look instead at the benefits that you’ve gained: a strong sense of self, a better financial footing and wisdom that comes from many years of experience.”

A positive attitude is a great place to launch an “aging gracefully” wellness-focused lifestyle. Once you’ve set that as a goal, here are some other steps you can take to ensure you’re living healthy, happy and well.

Baby your skin.

Did you know that your skin is your body’s largest organ? Just as you do your best to protect your other (internal) organs, caring for your skin can go a long way to helping you stay healthy and aging gracefully. Taking care of your skin will better protect your body from the elements and help you keep a regulated body temperature. Good skin care also helps reduce your risk of melanomas … and also can protect against wrinkles. Be sure to wear sunscreen regularly, stay hydrated and get yearly skin cancer screenings.

Get plenty of exercise.

Regular exercise is one of the best things you can do to stay healthy. Getting at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week of regular aerobic exercise reduces your risk of cancer, heart disease and other diseases. It also reduces stress, boosts your mood and improves overall physical health. What’s not to love? It’s generally recommended that adults get 2.5 to 5 hours a week of moderate-intensity exercise, as well as muscle-strengthening activities two or more days a week. Some great exercises for older adults include walking, swimming, cycling, dancing and gardening. Don’t think you have to sweat it out at the gym to get your daily allotment of exercise – even a little bit of exercise goes a long way. Look for ways to increase physical activity in your everyday life by taking the stairs instead of the elevator, parking further away from the store or doing leg lifts while you’re standing at the counter.

Eat a healthy diet.

You are what you eat, and a healthy diet helps ensure a healthy lifestyle. Make sure that you’re eating a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, whole grains and low-fat dairy. Stay away from fatty meats, processed foods, refined sugars and too much salt. Eating well will help reduce your risk of a variety of different diseases, as well as keep you feeling well throughout the day.

Lower your stress.

Stress can significantly affect your body, from premature aging to higher risks of heart disease and more. That’s why it’s so important to relieve stress and live a lifestyle that is conducive to your mental health. Some ways to reduce stress in your life are:

  • Practicing relaxation techniques that pair the mind and body, such as meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises.
  • Spending time with friends and loved ones – Meaningful relationships have long been linked to a better quality of life and longevity
  • Keep a positive attitude about getting older – Studies show that people who have an optimistic outlook can live longer and recover more quickly from various ailments and injuries.
  • Do something you enjoy daily and seek out opportunities for happiness, such as enjoyable hobbies or activities.

Keep on top of your health.

Make sure you’re seeing your doctor regularly and getting a yearly physical. Staying on top of your health can help you and your doctor identify problems early or even before they start. Ask your physician how often you should be having checkups and screening tests. Make sure that, if you have a chronic condition such as hypertension or diabetes, you’re adhering to your medication schedule and paying attention to any changes.

Get a good night’s sleep.

A good night’s sleep is like a “reboot” for your brain and body. Research has shown that deep sleep helps purge the brain of toxins that could be linked to mental decline and illnesses like Alzheimer’s disease. Plus, good sleep improves your mood, boosts your physical health and makes your skin look great. In order to ensure the best chance for sleep, make sure that your bedroom is at a comfortable temperature, is dark enough and is quiet enough. Adopt a bedtime routine where screens are turned off at least an hour before bedtime. Avoid drinking alcohol or caffeine too late in the evening, which can disrupt your sleep cycle.

Keep learning every day.

Finding new hobbies and activities – or even picking up old ones that have fallen by the wayside – will keep your brain nimble and active and help stave off cognitive decline, boredom and even loneliness. Learning doesn’t have to involve hitting the books (although if you decide you want to go back to school, there are many courses of study for older adults). Playing games, making music or even socializing with friends are all great ways to fire up your brain cells and keep you active, engaged and happy.

“Age really can be a state of mind,” says Charlene. “Living a lifestyle that’s focused on wellness and dedicated to making the most of each day can do wonders for your mental, physical and emotional health and help you feel years younger than you actually are. Our premier rental retirement community is focused on providing a maintenance-free, carefree lifestyle focused on whole-body wellness to help our residents age gracefully and live well every day.”

Now Accepting Reservations!

We look forward to introducing you to the definitive, distinctive lifestyle at Waterstone of Westchester and welcoming you as one of the first residents at our community. For more information or to reserve your space, please call 914.295.2177 and discover how you can help shape the future of our luxury rental community for seniors 62 and over.

Live the Life You Love. Opening Early 2022.

Welcome home to Waterstone of Westchester – a community that takes the idea of home to an entirely new level. In this premier independent senior living community, you’ll thrive in curated elegance and style in a beautifully appointed apartment with designer finishes. Plus, enjoy connecting with friends and team members in our welcoming common areas.

Located right in the heart of White Plains, Waterstone of Westchester is the perfect sophisticated, urban setting for active seniors. Directly across from the flagship Bloomingdale’s, the community is just a short walk away from the finest shops and restaurants and less than a mile from I-287, making it easy to get away and enjoy everything the area has to offer.

Waterstone of Westchester offers independent living for active, independent seniors while also providing supportive care services through an innovative partnership with VNS Westchester. As a rental community, residents enjoy a maintenance-free, carefree life with no steep entrance fees. Delicious dining, a focus on wellness and engaging programs are always on the menu.

Continue living your dream life, here, at Waterstone of Westchester. Fill your days with favorite pastimes, delicious and healthy meals, stimulating exercises and educational programs. Enjoy spending time in your beautifully designed apartment, alone or with friends – because everything here is designed to make you feel right at home.

Welcome to Waterstone of Westchester! Join the experience of what life is like at this premier senior living community by calling 914.295.2177.

Categories
Lexington

The Connection Between Brain Health and Healthy Aging

Senior woman in a tai chi pose

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.

Categories
The Circle

How To Live Your Best Life in Senior Living

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!

Categories
High Ridge

Healthy Hobbies That Help You Age Well

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.

Categories
High Ridge

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

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 19th-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 20th-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.

Categories
Wellesley

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

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.

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