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Tag: Assisted Living

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Lexington

How To Get the Most Out of Your Doctor Visit

Serious retired man consulting with doctor
Serious retired man consulting with younger female doctor at the checkup meeting in the hospital. Experienced general practitioner giving healthcare medical advices to mature patient

Full waiting room, quiet exam room, a quick 15-minute chat with the doctor, and you’re on your way. You only have a limited amount of time with your doctor, so how can you make the most of the time you do have? We’re making it easy to find out with our expert tips to help you maximize your doctor appointments.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Doctor Visits

Write out questions prior to your appointment, and bring your list.

This is important for two reasons: One, it’s easy to forget the things you want to ask or are curious about. Two, it’s easy to feel rushed, which can make you skip out on your list of questions, possibly missing something important.

Having your list with you will help prevent you from forgetting in the moment, all while ensuring you leave nothing necessary out.

Arrive early to your doctor’s office.

Sometimes your doctor’s office will want you to share your health history ahead of time. They may also need to look up your medical records if you’re coming from a different healthcare provider. Arriving early can help give you time to fill out necessary forms and paperwork without being rushed.

Keep an eye on the time.

A doctor only has so much time to talk with you, so make sure you’re sticking to the topics you’re there to discuss and asking the most important questions first. If you know it’s likely you have more questions than can be answered during your normal appointment slot, ask if you can schedule a longer appointment next time.

Be honest with your doctor.

If you are at your doctor’s office for a physical exam, be honest with them about your health concerns.

If you’d like to enhance your health, be upfront about that. If you’re dealing with some health issues, don’t ignore them. If they ask you a question, don’t skirt around the truth; they’re there to help you and want to know about any health concerns you have.

Take notes.

As your doctor chats with you, take notes so your family members can remain in the loop as well. Ask your doctor to repeat anything if necessary for you to be clear about what they’re saying.

Ask for resources.

If you’re diagnosed with a health condition, like high blood pressure, heart disease, or another ailment, ask for resources. These can help you manage your conditions or learn what you can do to stay healthy. Often, doctors will provide this to you, along with a list of instructions, but if they don’t, it’s a good idea to ask for it.

Follow up with questions.

If you have questions after your appointment, perhaps about blood work, test results, or medication side effects, don’t be afraid to follow up. It often takes a quick phone call or email to get the answers you need, so make it a point to do so if you feel you need more information.

LET US BE A RESOURCE FOR YOU.

To learn more about how to get the most out of your doctor visits, or to see how our lifestyle can enhance your health, schedule a visit today.

WELCOME TO LUXURY LIVING IN LEXINGTON.

There are many reasons to choose Waterstone of Lexington as your new home. With independent living and assisted living on site, you’ll have access to convenient amenities, wellness-focused services, and a truly exceptional lifestyle. Schedule a visit to learn why Waterstone of Lexington might be the right senior living community for you.

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Lexington

How Waterstone Helps Seniors Avoid the Winter Blues

Happy senior friends playing cards while chilling together at home
Multiethnic group of happy senior friends men and women in casual sitting on couch, having conversation and playing cards while drinking tea with cookies, chilling together at home

The winter blues are something many people deal with, often beginning during the dreary days of fall and winter months. But how can you melt them away? At Waterstone of Lexington, we make it simple for older adults to thrive all year round, even when the weather outside is gloomy. Read on to find out how you can escape the winter blues with Waterstone.

Techniques To Beat the Winter Blues

Increase Social Interaction

Many of us are no stranger to the fact that spending time with friends, family, and even acquaintances can boost our mood, enhance mental health, and add a little extra joy to our days. Whether you remain involved in your favorite social groups, connect virtually with those you love, schedule weekly get-togethers with friends, or take up a new hobby to make new friends, the benefits can be far-reaching.

At Waterstone of Lexington, our residents know it best. Each day, there’s something new to enjoy. From residents challenging each other in our game room to meeting in Buckman’s Tavern to enjoying regularly scheduled social and recreational programs, the winter blues and isolation are faraway problems for those who live here.

Even better, though, is that everything you need to connect with others is just outside your apartment door – meaning no need to brave the cold or dreary winter weather.

Increase Physical Activity

Staying active also boosts your mood, decreases depression, and enhances energy levels. While others may need to join a gym or do home workouts, our residents never need to get a gym membership because their gym is located right inside our community. Here, the options for integrative wellness are endless, with an indoor heated pool and fitness center staffed by professional fitness and aquatic instructors, a mind-body studio, a range of fitness classes, and outdoor walking paths providing access to natural light to improve circadian rhythms and boost moods.

Eat Healthy

Eating the right foods can decrease your likelihood of experiencing the winter blues. You should aim to eat fish around three to five times a week if possible, consume a variety of fruits and vegetables, enjoy some berries, and yes, even savor some dark chocolate.

At Waterstone of Lexington, our culinary team creates nutritious and exceptionally delicious meals tailored to our residents’ needs. With anytime dining at our restaurant, seasonal menus featuring distinctive meals, a juice bar for those on the go, dining is a delight.

Engage the Mind

Warming up your mind can help to make this season feel less dreary. Instead of feeling blue about the lack of outdoor activities, warm weather and fun, make the most of the things you can do inside.

At Waterstone of Lexington, residents engage in our cultural and educational programming, attend stimulating lectures, use our maker space, view shows in the media room and movie theater, and more.

Now is when residents like to plan ahead for warmer weather, too. Whether they’re figuring out what they’ll plant in the garden this year, which trips they’d like to take with new friends, or where they’d like to explore, it’s a great way to bring a little excitement for the spring to come.

When Winter Blues Don’t Melt Away

If you’re finding that your winter blues are simply too difficult to shake, it’s important to talk with a doctor. It’s possible it could be seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or another health condition. Your doctor will be able to offer ways to help, possibly including light therapy or medication.

If it’s difficult for you to get to a doctor, Waterstone can help with that, too. With scheduled transportation, you won’t need to worry about driving in bad weather. You can also take advantage of our Wellness and Telemedicine Suite. These are just some of the many ways we can help make winter even easier, helping you enjoy it just a little bit more.

Feel the Warmth of Waterstone

Have you had enough of the cold winter? Trade in your winter blues for a life of warmth, engagement and fun at Waterstone. To learn more or to experience our lifestyle for yourself, schedule a visit today.

WATERSTONE OF LEXINGTON: NOW THIS IS HOME

Waterstone of Lexington offers a modern approach to retirement living in a historical setting with concierge services and impressive amenities. Come see how we redefine independent living and assisted living with a visit today.

Categories
Lexington

Choosing the Right Retirement Community

Have you decided enough is enough with household chores, home maintenance, isolation and boredom? If so, a retirement community might just be what you’re looking for. If you choose your retirement location wisely, you can say goodbye to all these hassles and even more.

Among all the senior living options – from independent living and assisted living communities to Continuing Care Retirement Communities and long-term skilled nursing communities, where do you start? Independent, active seniors often opt for independent living communities, which offer a full, enriching lifestyle. Many of these communities, like Waterstone of Lexington, also offer dedicated care and support, giving seniors the best of both worlds along with confidence for the future.

Of these independent retirement communities, how do you choose which is best for you? If you’re not sure, Waterstone of Lexington is here to help with tips on choosing the right retirement community for you.

5 Steps to Choosing the Right Retirement Community

Step 1 | Identify what you’re looking for.

Many older adults ponder what type of senior living community they’d like to live in far before actually making a move. If you’re among these seniors who have planned for life at a senior living community, you may already have a list of what you’re looking for. If you don’t have an idea of what you’d prefer, consider these points.

Location

Do you prefer to live in a beautiful setting, but still close to a city where there are plenty of things to do? If your ideal retirement community offers a range of on-site and off-site programs and activities, Waterstone of Lexington might be perfect for you.

Programs

Days within retirement communities should be full of engaging programming, wellness opportunities, and fun social events. At Waterstone of Lexington, this is certainly the case! Our calendar is full of social, cultural and recreational programs designed with our residents’ preferences in mind.

Dining

Dining options should be something you savor. At Waterstone of Lexington, it’s always a delight. Learn more about our exquisite dining experience featuring chef-prepared, seasonal meals using fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.

Step 2 | Consider your current and future needs.

If you’re searching for a community where you can receive the care you’ll need as you age, you’ll want to be sure to choose one that offers a range of supportive services. Communities like Waterstone of Lexington offer personal care assistance and support in our assisted living community, and even memory care in a separate building on our campus, BridgesⓇ by EPOCH at Lexington.

Step 3 | Schedule tours.

Once you’ve honed in on what you want, and what you could need in the future, schedule tours of senior living options that offer as many items as possible on your list.

During your tour, ask plenty of questions, like:

  • What do residents’ days look like?
  • What is included in your lifestyle?
  • Are care options available?
  • How do your programs and services enrich the lives of your residents each day?

As you visit, remember to talk with residents, families and team members to hear their thoughts as well.

Step 4 | Narrow down your choices.

After your tours, evaluate how each community made you feel. If a specific tour of a community left you with a good first impression and joy, it might be a sign you’ve found a good community for you.

To evaluate which communities you should continue exploring, ask to visit again, and see whether you can try some programs, attend their events, and even enjoy a meal. It may also help to show up unexpectedly, which will give you a deeper look into the lifestyle you may be choosing. Then, based on your experiences, narrow your choices down.

Step 5 | Make your decision or start again.

Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, you should be left with one final step: choosing the senior living community that is the best fit for you, or starting over. If you’ve made a firm decision, contact your chosen community to begin the process and find out what’s next.

If finding the right senior living community didn’t happen this time around, consider why this is the case. Use those answers to reevaluate and restart the process when you’re ready to dive into the senior living search again.

WELCOME TO LUXURY LIVING IN LEXINGTON.

There are many reasons to choose Waterstone of Lexington as your new home. Convenient location is only part of the equation. With independent living and assisted living on site, as well as memory care by the experts at BridgesⓇ, you’ll have access to convenient amenities, wellness-focused services, and a truly exceptional lifestyle. Schedule a visit to learn why Waterstone of Lexington might be the right senior living community for you.

Categories
Lexington

Comparing Independent Living and Assisted Living

old senior retired couple enjoy talking conversation together on sofa with happiness laugh smile and joyful at home
old senior asian retired couple enjoy talking conversation together on sofa with happiness laugh smile and joyful at home,asian old mature adult stay home quarantine period concept

Is it possible for two different senior living options to offer engaging lifestyles, enriching amenities, and programs tailored to resident interests? Though it may sound like it’s too good to be true, it’s not. In fact, it’s even better, with one of these options even providing the added benefit of customized care and support. We’re talking about independent living and assisted living at Waterstone of Lexington.

To better understand each of these offerings, we need to take a deep dive into their similarities and differences. Then, you’ll discover how both of these senior living options can make life even better for older adults who choose to move.

Digging into the similarities and differences of independent living and assisted living.

If you or a loved one have been considering senior living options, you may be wondering which lifestyle is best for your situation. Below we will share what you can expect from each living option while answering some of the most common questions we receive.

Who takes advantage of independent living and assisted living?

When you stack up independent living vs. assisted living, you’ll find that those who choose each service aren’t really that different. Anyone who chooses these services can experience an engaging and enriching senior lifestyle with access to a range of services and amenities to enhance life each day. But, since the question is who takes advantage of each, we’ll narrow it down more.

Older adults who choose independent living are those who:

  • Live independently, often with no additional or minimal care support
  • Look forward to the possibilities and social opportunities retirement communities offer
  • Enjoy living worry-free with services designed to eliminate daily chores and the hassles of homeownership
  • Desire a plan in place for the future in the event care needs change

Seniors who choose assisted living want:

  • Privacy and independence but without support close at hand
  • Personalized assistance with activities of daily living
  • A vibrant lifestyle with daily activities and events
  • Peace of mind of health care services nearby

What does independent living offer?

While we gave a little insight into this above, there is much more to senior living communities than meets the eye. This is especially true at Waterstone of Lexington. What can you expect from our independent living community?

  • Beautiful apartments with refined details, featuring a range of floor plan options
  • Luxurious common areas for activities and socialization
  • Compelling social, cultural and recreational programs
  • Dynamic social events and outings
  • Exquisite anytime dining
  • Fitness and wellness programs
  • Personal training plans and group fitness classes by Train Boston®
  • Mind-body studio and juice bar
  • Heated indoor pool
  • Full-service salon
  • On-site concierge
  • Private underground parking
  • Outdoor nature paths

If support becomes necessary, we also offer an on-site coordinated care program for our independent living residents, where our premier care partners provide services in the comfort of residents’ private apartments.

  • Personalized care consultations
  • Daily planning
  • Home health coordination
  • Medication management
  • On-site geriatric primary and specialty care services
  • Routine wellness visits
  • An experienced staff trained to navigate your healthcare needs
  • Overnight support staff

It is important to note that some independent living communities may offer far less than this, so when considering your or your loved one’s options, be sure to evaluate wants and needs to ensure you’re choosing the right lifestyle for now –  and for the future.

What does assisted living offer?

Assisted living offers access to the same enriching Waterstone lifestyle that independent living residents enjoy – but it comes with more. Here, residents also benefit from:

  • Well-designed, private apartments with a choice of floor plans
  • Comprehensive, customized care plans
  • Support delivered by our attentive team
  • Personalized support with activities of daily living
  • Customized wellness programs
  • Coordination with ancillary providers
  • Programs, activities and events
  • Three chef-prepared meals daily
  • Housekeeping and laundry services
  • Transportation services

How do costs differ?

This can depend on what type of lifestyle you’re searching for. While it’s true that assisted living often costs slightly more because of the added aspect of care, we also make senior living more flexible.

At Waterstone of Lexington, our independent and assisted living community is rental only, meaning you or your loved one won’t need to worry about:

  • Paying for steep entrance fees to access independent living
  • Paying for unused assisted living care – until it’s needed
  • Being locked into a contract

This is often the perfect choice for seniors, no matter what level of care they require.

When is a senior community right for myself or a loved one?

For many older adults, this is a deeply personal subject, and the truth is, it depends. For some seniors, they’re ready to move right now, taking in as many of the programs, services, amenities and learning opportunities as they can. They may also love knowing the community they choose has care available, if it becomes a necessity. For others, they aren’t ready to make a move until they need extra support or personal care to continue living the lifestyle they love.

At Waterstone of Lexington, we typically suggest moving as soon as possible. This is so residents can:

  • Get accustomed to their new lifestyle
  • Explore everything we have to offer without limitations
  • Enjoy all our active lifestyle provides before care is needed
  • Make new friends and meet like-minded individuals
  • Experience the support that’s needed as soon as it’s needed, without having to seek out care during an emergency

We’ve only brushed the surface.

You can learn more about independent living and assisted living at Waterstone of Lexington by scheduling a visit. If you’re interested in memory care for a family member with memory loss, our sister community, BridgesⓇ by EPOCH at Lexington, can provide the right level of care to suit their needs, too.

Experience our lifestyle for yourself and see why so many others have made a move today.

WATERSTONE OF LEXINGTON: NOW THIS IS HOME

Waterstone of Lexington offers a modern approach to retirement living in a historical setting with concierge services and impressive amenities. Come see how we redefine independent living and assisted living with a visit today.

Categories
Lexington

Encouraging Assisted Living for Aging Parents

young woman holding an open book whiling sitting on the couch with her senior mother

As seniors age, there comes a time they may need additional support with activities of daily living. While some older adults and adult children consider home care, many opt for senior care options like an assisted living community.

If you are trying to find ways to encourage a move to senior living for your parent, we’re here to help. Below you will find some of the top reasons seniors put off a move to assisted living and ways you can support them.

Your Guide to Encouraging Assisted Living for Aging Parents: Reasons They May Avoid a Move

Reason 1 | They Have Negative Perceptions.

Many seniors view assisted living communities like the nursing homes of the past. However, they are now far from the hospital-like environments they used to be. In fact, they offer so much more than just healthcare. Show your loved one what assisted living communities are like now by scheduling a visit to experience it firsthand.

As you both discover the enriching lifestyle, chat with residents, meet team members, and see what assisted living has to offer, you’ll easily bust the myths and the negative perceptions your loved one may have about assisted living.

Reason 2 | They Fear a Loss of Independence.

Some seniors may fear a loss of independence when moving to assisted living. After making a move, however, many seniors and their family members express that they wish they had done so sooner. This is often because with the right amount of support, seniors thrive with a full lifestyle, new friends and convenient amenities just outside their door.

If your mom or dad is still worried about a loss of independence, or that they won’t be able to be as active as they once were, sharing how a move can benefit them may help. Some of these advantages include:

  • Access to support when needed
  • Maintenance-free lifestyle
  • Ability to create their own schedule
  • Daily programs, clubs and events
  • Gourmet meals with fresh, seasonal selections
  • More time to focus on activities they want to pursue

Reason 3 | They Want to Remain at Home.

There are a couple of reasons your parents may want to stay in their home. For example, your mom or dad may not want to move because they raised their families there and it houses many of their positive memories. They may not want to leave behind neighbors they have gotten to know well over the years, or they may simply be afraid to step outside their comfort zone and leave their home for something unknown.

While these reasons are valid and understandable, it is important to share how their future may be impacted by remaining at home. Some helpful points may include:

  • What staying at home may cost, including maintenance, taxes, repairs, and alterations to allow for aging in place
  • Who will be available to care for them, and what happens when needs increase
  • How the costs of 24-hour at home care compare to moving to an assisted living facility
  • What happens if they have a sudden health emergency and support at home isn’t available

If their decision not to move is more about the fact they have an emotional attachment to their home, share how memories aren’t tied to the house and instead are in their heart. It can help to spend some time with them taking photographs of spaces within the home that hold their most treasured memories. Write the memories down in a photo album so they can preserve them while having a physical reminder.

Reason 4 | They Prefer to Wait.

Sometimes aging parents are willing to move to senior housing but only when they feel it’s truly needed. It’s also possible they may not want to admit they need more help, or they feel guilty putting the burden of moving on you. This can be detrimental for various reasons:

  • Waiting to move can limit your loved one’s ability to make the decision on their own
  • If care needs increase, you may need to make the decision, or you parent may be rushed to choose
  • It lessens time to explore options that suit them best
  • You may be overwhelmed without adequate support
  • Your parent may not be able to enjoy the community before health changes occur

Remind your loved one that one of the greatest benefits of moving to senior living is getting to take advantage of all the community has to offer – from convenient amenities and engaging programs to new friends and a dedicated staff ready to serve. If your loved one waits until their health is compromised, they may not be able to fully enjoy all that a community like Waterstone of Lexington has to offer.

Reason 5 | They’re Anxious.

Your mom or dad may be nervous about making a move, meeting new people, making new friends, fitting in, and feeling at home. To help them feel more comfortable:

  • Visit the community often prior to moving
  • Attend programs ahead of time, giving them the opportunity to make friends
  • Talk to the life enrichment team, who can share activities and events that may interest your loved one
  • Make their space look as much like home as possible

How To Begin the Conversation About Assisted Living

If it’s time to start this conversation with your parents, you’ll want to make sure you’re well educated and prepared. Try these tips:

  • Make sure the mood is pleasant
  • Don’t tell them what to do; simply share your observations about their living situation
  • Express your love and concern
  • Explain how senior living could enhance their lifestyle
  • Let them know you’ll feel better knowing they’ll receive support when needed
  • Listen to their concerns and share your own feelings
  • Talk with their family, friends, faith leaders and doctor, and ask them to assist with the conversation if needed

We’re Here for You and Your Loved One Through Every Step of the Transition to Assisted Living

At Waterstone of Lexington, we are always here to support you and your parents. For more advice on how to encourage a senior to move to assisted living, contact us or schedule a visit today.

If your loved one has already decided to make a move to a retirement community and you’re searching for resources on how to best prepare, check out our recent blog on preparing a loved one for a move to assisted living.

WATERSTONE OF LEXINGTON: NOW THIS IS HOME

Waterstone of Lexington is opening soon and will offer a modern approach to retirement living in a historical setting with concierge services and impressive amenities. Come see how we redefine independent living and assisted living with a visit today.

Categories
Lexington

How to Prepare a Loved One for a Move to Assisted Living

Home caregiver smiling and resting her hands on senior woman

For many older adults and family members, the time may eventually come to discuss a move to a senior living or assisted living community. Whether the move is for enhanced social opportunities or additional levels of care, it can be a difficult conversation to have. For some, they may look forward to a move immensely; for other older adults, it may take significant consideration, making it a slower process. Either way, however, many find they wish they’d made a move sooner.

Signs It’s Time to Make a Move to an Assisted Living Community

Are you wondering if it’s time for your loved one to make a move to assisted living? Check out these signs that a move may be beneficial:

  • Your loved one needs support with activities of daily living, like dressing, bathing or medication management.
  • They are feeling isolated in their own home.
  • The search for home care is becoming exhausting.
  • Your loved one requires more support than you can provide at home.
  • They prefer to receive care from someone who is not a family member.

Preparing for a Move to Assisted Living: Tips To Support a Loved One

How can you best prepare a loved one for a move to assisted living? First, it’s important to realize it’s a process that requires preparation before the move, during the move and even afterward. Try our tips to help guide you through every step of the journey.

Before the Move

If you are going to be talking to a loved one about moving to an assisted living community, it’s a good idea to gauge their interest first. Use their answers to the questions below to guide your conversation. Be respectful of their thoughts and opinions, but also remember to be honest about your concerns about them remaining at home. Above all, be sure that the conversation remains calm and pleasant; if it moves in another direction, revisit the discussion at a later time.

  • Are they eager to move?
  • Do they have any concerns about a move?
  • Do they feel that they would benefit from additional support?
  • Do they have a specific community in mind?

It’s always a good idea to tour a variety of assisted living communities. Each has a different atmosphere, services may vary – and your loved one may not feel at home at every community you tour. Make a list, schedule some visits, and evaluate each according to your loved one’s wishes and preferences.

Once you’ve set the location of the move and your loved one is ready to take the next step, it’s time to start the packing and downsizing process. Before diving into this step, however, it’s best to keep yourself on track by creating a moving checklist. This won’t just help you stay organized, but it can also prevent the need to remember everything off the top of your head. Make sure this list is in a prominent place that all eyes can see.

On the checklist, write out some things you are going to need, including:

  • Moving supplies, like lifting equipment and hand trucks, if you aren’t hiring a mover. If you need help moving larger items, a moving truck can help.
  • Packing supplies, like moving boxes, packing paper and foam, bubble wrap and packing tape.
  • Essential items to remember when packing belongings, like clothing, medications, hobby items and family photos.
  • Important goal dates, ensuring you’re on time with the moving process.

During the Downsizing Process

As the move inches closer and you begin the process of moving in, refer back to your checklist to make sure you have everything you need. Then, it’s time to start downsizing. We know that the process can feel overwhelming, but with these tips, it will be easier.

  • Make a list of where you want to begin. Some choose to tackle the smaller spaces, like closets, first. Others like to begin downsizing larger living spaces.
  • If you have help, ask others to take care of spaces that you know won’t be difficult to go through so you can cross those off the list. Otherwise, make sure to tackle one room at a time to reduce clutter.
  • Evaluate what needs to stay and what needs to go. For example, if you know your loved one will not need their large collection of kitchen tools, pack those away to donate or to give to a family member.
  • Consider renting a dumpster so you can toss any necessary items versus starting a pile.
  • Designate someone to take items to the donation center daily so that those items are out of the way.
  • As you pack, carefully label boxes that will be taken with you so you know where to put them when unpacking in their new assisted living community.

Moving Day

When the day finally arrives, focus on settling your loved one in, helping them get comfortable, and ensuring they have everything they need in their new space. To make move-in day go smoother:

  • Pack the moving truck or your cars the night before.
  • Enjoy breakfast together.
  • Complete any finishing touches on packing.
  • Provide support for your loved one if needed.
  • Invite friends or family to unpack with you.
  • Decorate right away, if possible, to make their space feel more like home.

After the Move

Once your loved one is settled in, there are still things you can do to help them feel more at home.

  • Introduce yourself and your loved one to neighbors.
  • Schedule extra times to come visit.
  • Check in with their care team to see how they are adjusting.
  • Point out events on the community’s schedule they might enjoy.
  • Periodically ask how your loved one is feeling.
  • Encourage them to get involved.

Over time, your loved one will feel more at home, and you’ll enjoy peace of mind knowing they are safe, engaged and well-cared for. If you would like to learn more about moving to assisted living or to schedule a visit at Waterstone of Lexington, contact us today.

WATERSTONE OF LEXINGTON: NOW THIS IS HOME

Waterstone of Lexington – opening fall 2022 – will offer a modern approach to retirement living in a historical setting with concierge services and impressive amenities. Come see how we redefine independent living and assisted living with a visit to our Welcome Center in Belmont.

Categories
Wellesley

10 Tips for a Smooth Transition to Assisted Living

Home caregiver and senior woman holding hands
Home caregiver and senior woman holding hands

Moving to assisted living in a senior living community can be a daunting process, especially if your parents have lived in their home for many years. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to streamline the transition to assisted living.

Once you and your loved one have decided it is the right time, there are several steps that you should take to prepare for a move to assisted living. Our tips below will cover the period leading up to the move and ways to help your loved one settle comfortably into their new home.

How To Prepare for the Move


1. Find a community that fits your loved one’s needs.
First, think about your loved one’s lifestyle, preferences and needs. Consider which amenities and services might be most important for your loved one – and which you might not need in a community. To avoid having to make a rushed decision due to a crisis or situation that requires an immediate move, start the process as early as possible. It’s never too early to start considering your options.


2. Visit communities to see them in person.
The best way to get to know a community is to visit it in person. It gives you a wonderful opportunity to meet the team – and even the current residents – to get firsthand insight into the lifestyle, care and services. Often, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a meal in the dining room or attend an event on campus. This will help you gauge what community will best fit with your loved one’s personality, interests and needs.

3. Prioritize as you help your loved one pack.
You don’t have to pack everything right away; prioritize the most important items first. You can organize the process by creating lists, such as items your loved one wants to take along to their new home or those to be passed down as a family heirloom. Another good tip is to start in one room – and then move on to the next. Focus on creating a plan for the bigger items first, and then work on putting smaller items into keep, donate or throw away piles. Try to break the process into simple, smaller tasks.

4. Take time to consider logistics.
If your loved one will be living in a new community, make a list of tasks to be completed such as canceling ongoing utilities and forwarding mail to their new community address from the postal service. Remember to update their new address with medical offices, insurance, financial institutions and social security.  The community where your loved one is moving can also be a great resource to help you with these logistical items.

5. Give your loved one time to adjust emotionally.
The transition to a senior living community can bring up a range of emotions for a senior loved one, especially when leaving a long-time family home. These feelings are completely normal when preparing to move to a new home. One of the best ways to overcome fears is to talk about them. Encourage your loved one to talk to family members and friends about the positives that come along with a move.

6. Give your loved ones a hand as they set up their new space.
Getting your loved ones used to their new living space is the best way to help them feel comfortable. Help them arrange their furniture and decorations in a way that they like. Finding the right place to display items that can make your loved ones feel at home.

Tips for the First Week in Senior Living

1. Encourage your loved one to meet their neighbors.

Your loved one will likely become good friends with their new neighbors, and you should encourage them to introduce themselves. At Waterstone at Wellesley, a Welcoming Committee is assigned to help residents adjust to community life. Ask if the community offers a similar program to support new residents.

2. Encourage your loved one to get to know the team.
One of the best ways for new residents to feel more at home is to get to know the team members who are there to support and care for them. Among the people your loved one will meet are the management team, nurses, dining staff, maintenance providers, the life enrichment team, and fitness instructors. Tell your loved one not to be afraid to ask any questions they may have about the community’s services – at any time. It is the job of the entire team to make your loved one feel comfortable.

3. Be sure to spend time with your loved one.
The first few weeks in the community are particularly crucial. Aim to visit your loved one regularly, if possible, to help encourage a smooth and healthy transition into the community. Your loved one will appreciate the support and knowledge that you are there for them. If you can’t visit, talk with the community team about regular calls, video chats or other ways you can support your loved one with the move from a distance.

4. Promote participation in community events.

Check out the social calendar for the community and find ways to get your loved one interested in attending the various social, cultural and educational events. Learning about the available amenities and getting to know other residents is a great way to start off. Encourage your loved one to start with activities they are sure to like – and then branch out from there. They may just discover a new favorite hobby!

Waterstone at Wellesley. Now This Is Home.

Waterstone at Wellesley offers independent living and assisted living options in beautiful Wellesley, along the banks of the Charles River.

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Wellesley

Differences Between Independent Living and Assisted Living

Senior woman holding a cup of coffee in the kitchen.
Unrecognizable senior woman in the kitchen. An old woman inside the house, holding a cup of coffee.

If you’re thinking about a new home for your loved one but are unsure whether they need independent living or assisted living, you might be glad to know that there are really more similarities than differences when it comes to the lifestyle. Both can help your loved one enjoy an active, enriching lifestyle – whether or not they need some additional support to remain living independently.

Read on to learn more about how you can make an informed decision about which type of care would best meet your loved one’s needs.

Key Differences Between Independent Living and Assisted Living

If you’re looking for a new place for your aging loved one, you’ll probably come across various assisted and independent living options. While both types of living are beneficial for your loved one, it can be helpful to understand the differences between the two.

Independent Living

Independent living offers private apartments with the support of regular housekeeping, maintenance services and access to a range of community amenities to make life easy and carefree. Many communities, such as Waterstone at Wellesley, also offer dining plans and options with delicious chef-prepared selections. Independent living residents also enjoy a range of social, cultural and recreational programs surrounded by friends with similar interests.

Independent living apartments can vary from studio to two-bedroom and larger. At Waterstone at Wellesley, our premier apartments feature modern touches and elevated details that make residents feel right at home.

Most seniors who move into independent living do not require assistance with the tasks of daily living, such as bathing, dressing or medication management. In independent living, the focus is not on care but on eliminating chores and responsibilities – making seniors’ lives as fulfilling, rewarding and worry-free as possible. However, for those who do require some support to remain living independently, it is helpful to know that some independent living communities, such as Waterstone at Wellesley, do allow on-demand care and supportive services to be delivered to residents within their private apartments.

Assisted Living

Assisted living can be an ideal option for those who are experiencing health problems or safety concerns and can no longer live independently. Within an assisted living community, they are structured to provide more personal care and medical oversight – with a focus on providing just the right balance between lifestyle and support.

At Waterstone at Wellesley, for example, assisted living residents receive customized care plans that provide support with the activities of daily living (ADLs), medication management and three nutritious, chef-prepared meals each day. With the right care in place, residents can lead independent lives and take full advantage of the services, amenities and engaging lifestyle that Waterstone is known to provide.

Enriching Lifestyle

No matter which living option is selected, residents enjoy a more comfortable, carefree lifestyle and a sense of community and connection. With both independent and assisted living, residents benefit from wellness-focused programs and activities that are designed to keep them healthy and happy.

At Waterstone at Wellesley, independent and assisted living residents have everything they need to live their best lives – and families can rest assured knowing their loved ones are in good hands.

Waterstone at Wellesley. Now This Is Home.

Waterstone at Wellesley offers independent living and assisted living options in the heart of Wellesley, MA.  Contact us for more information.

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Wellesley

5 Simple Tips for Choosing an Assisted Living Community

woman hugging her grandmother before helping her with her finances on a laptop
Cropped shot of an attractive young woman hugging her grandmother before helping her with her finances on a laptop

Sometimes, the prospect of a move to senior living can give you ‘option paralysis’ – in other words, there’s so many choices that it’s too difficult to determine what is best for your specific circumstances.

Finding the right assisted living community requires time, effort and patience. In your search for a place to call home for yourself or a loved one, it’s important to focus your attention on a handful of key factors. These boil down to services, location, size, cost and overall culture.

Here are the five areas to explore when choosing the right assisted living community for your loved one.

The 5 Factors to Consider When Looking for an Assisted Living Community

Before transitioning to an assisted living community, you have to be sure it’s a good fit for yourself or a loved one.

It’s estimated that by 2023, 60% of senior living communities will offer wellness lifestyles, according to data from the International Council on Active Aging. This is a clear sign of an upward trend in senior living, where a holistic approach is favored. Waterstone at Wellesley is ahead of the curve, offering an enriching lifestyle that emphasizes all aspects of wellness – body, mind and spirit.

Realistically, any community that places emphasis on quality of life, compassion and personal care will likely offer the services you need. With this philosophy in mind, it’s important that you look for a community that meets your individual needs and preferences in each of the following five areas.

  1. Services Offered
    Explore the services offered by the community. Come to your research process prepared by knowing the level of care you or your loved one may need. For example, if your loved one will require medication management, double-check that the service is provided. If you have special dietary requirements, ask if the dining service team will be able to accommodate them.
  2. Location of the Community
    Do you want a place near where you live, near where your loved one currently lives, or something in between? The answer to this question will be personal. Maybe there are other reasons you’re going for a specific location.If possible, it’s a good idea to travel to the community with a family member to see it for yourself. Though it may add more work to the search process for the ideal assisted living community, visiting a community and seeing all that it has to offer will tell you more than anything on the internet ever could.
  3. Size and Style of the Community
    Senior care is a community endeavor, as much about building intentional neighborhoods as it is living a lifestyle focused on wellness. Be sure that the community is the right size – and style – for you. Does the community feel right to you and offer the amenities you’re looking for to promote an active, healthy lifestyle? Does it offer the atmosphere that you are accustomed to and that makes you or your loved one feel at home?
  4. Cost of Living
    Depending on the community, older adults will have a variety of ways to pay for assisted living services. Go over care and housing options with the community’s Senior Advisor and/or your own personal financial advisor before coming to a decision. Look at the type of community in question, the spectrum of care and contract type. Consider everything that is included at each community you visit to be sure you’re comparing “apples to apples.”
  5. Community Culture
    Arguably the most important aspect of any community is its culture. For assisted living residents, community culture can be elements big or small. When you visit, get a feel for the environment and people. Watch how residents interact with team members. Check out the lifestyle and how engaging the programs are. Does the community’s overall feel and culture align with what you envisioned for your or your loved one’s new home?

Ensure the community offers everything needed to encourage the lifestyle you desire. Maybe your loved one likes the theater or spending a quiet afternoon in the library. Perhaps they enjoy a little personal training or a tai chi session. How about a game night or art class? Look for a place that will help you or your loved one feel comfortable and at home – and possibly help you step slightly out of your comfort zone to experience new, exciting things.

Waterstone at Wellesley: Now This Is Home.

Waterstone at Wellesley offers premier independent living and supportive assisted living options in the heart of Wellesley in beautiful Massachusetts. Contact us to schedule a personal visit and explore our dynamic senior living community.

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Wellesley

Why Seniors Prefer Assisted Living Rather Than Moving In with Family

senior grandparents sitting with young grandson reading a book

A recent article in Senior Housing News reported that while many older adults see themselves remaining at home as they age, they viewed moving to an assisted living community as a better option than moving in with family members.

This was one of the key findings in a recent survey by Retirement Living Information Center. The online retirement resource website surveyed over 2,300 seniors. Thirty percent of respondents said if they became unable to live on their own, they preferred assisted living communities over living with family.

The Challenges of Multigenerational Living

“Deciding whether to stay at home or move in with an adult child or family member can be a tricky one,” says Devon Sicard, Executive Director at Waterstone at Wellesley. “Before making any decisions, it’s important to consider the emotional, financial and logistical aspects of it.”

The Family Caregiver Alliance (FCA) warns that seniors who move in with family members often struggle with the inevitable change in familial roles. “Adult children have to accept they may have to parent their parents while the older adult still feels authoritative despite his or her health condition,” says Devon.

Devon emphasizes the importance of having a frank discussion with the aging parents before making the arrangement. “Lay some ground rules and talk about how it’s all going to work,” Devon says. “Talk about mealtimes, bedtimes, household responsibilities, how guests will be handled and how much time should be set aside for socialization. The need for care services provided by home healthcare organizations should also be assessed.”

Families must also make sure they have the physical – and financial – means to provide a home for their loved ones. Some may have to adapt or expand their home to make it more comfortable or senior-ready.

MarketWatch points out that there are a host of legal and financial matters to sort out before a move takes place. The news source suggests figuring out whether the parent will be contributing to household costs and, if so, how much? Can the caregiver claim the parent as a dependent? In addition, families should have a will in place to protect their parents’ legal rights.

Many seniors fear losing their independence should they move in with a loved one. Retaining as much independence as possible is one of the main reasons why so many seniors think moving to an independent living community or assisted living facility may be a better choice. 

Senior living communities – whether they offer independent living, assisted living or both – are becoming the go-to for seniors who find they need a little support to live their best lives. Devon says that most residents who move to Waterstone at Wellesley need some level of support or assistance with the activities of daily living, personal care and medication reminders.

“The truth is that when seniors move into a community, they find they enjoy the active, vibrant lifestyle very much,” says Devon. “They love having access to community amenities that make such a difference in overall well-being and quality of life. Living at home doesn’t include built-in amenities like fitness and wellness centers, indoor swimming pools, gourmet dining in multiple venues, indoor and outdoor community gathering spaces, putting greens, spas and much more.”

Senior living communities can be a happy solution for seniors and their families. Below are a few reasons why seniors say they prefer a senior living community over living with their families: 

Maintenance and worry-free living – The everyday chores that come with owning a home are all completely taken care of. 

Live social – Senior living communities offer countless daily activities, entertainment and social opportunities. There’s never a dull moment (unless you want there to be), and there are always new friends and neighbors around to ensure you are never alone (unless you want to be).

Good nutrition and great food – In assisted living or other senior living communities, there is no shortage of healthy, delicious foods. Families can rest assured that their loved ones have well-balanced meals that provide the right nutritional support.

One monthly payment – One monthly payment includes everything residents need to thrive. You don’t have to worry about paying utility bills, taxes, phone, etc. It’s all included in your monthly bill.

Transportation – Forget navigating traffic and icy roads during the winter months! Communities like Waterstone offer complimentary transportation to and from doctor appointments, errands and more.

Confidence of care – Adult children enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing their loved ones are enjoying a full life and that support and assistance are available if they’re needed. 

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 worries or concerns about 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.

Future Peace of Mind

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.