Author: Michael Schwartz

The Benefits of Living Close to Family as You Age

Post author By Michael Schwartz
Post date June 24, 2022

3 generations of an ethnic family smiling and laughing

When older adults and their family members begin their search for senior living options, they may have a list of what they are looking for in mind. For many, that list consists of great food, fun things to do, opportunities to socialize, and dedicated support and programs to enhance health. Many also consider where the community is situated as a key consideration – but there’s many factors that go into an ideal location.

When aging parents and families think about the location of senior living communities, they think about how close they are to shopping, dining and attractions. While these are all great things to look for, it’s also important to consider the proximity to family members.

Why Living Close to Family Is Beneficial

There are many reasons why being close to family is important – and not just to make sure seniors stay close to the grandkids! If you’re just beginning your search for a retirement community or are seeking senior care for a loved one, check out why living close to family is advantageous.

It provides independence – and closeness.

Some older adults want nothing more than to be close to their family members – but not so close that they aren’t enjoying their own independent lifestyle! This is one of the reasons that older adults choose to move to a senior living community. It’s a place where they can still enjoy frequent visits and activities with family, but where they’re also benefitting from:

Social opportunities and events
Engaging activities and programming
Freedom from housekeeping and home maintenance
Meals prepared for them
Exciting outings and planned trips

Living close – but not too close – allows for a healthy balance of pursuing new possibilities while still allowing seniors to be present for all of their loved one’s precious moments, both big and small.

Family support and involvement can continue.

One of the best parts about family is that they are always there for each other. Whether times are great or a little tougher, being close can make all the difference in someone’s day. Living close by allows for support and involvement such as:

Quick assistance watching grandchildren
The ability to be near in case of emergency
Special deliveries of grandparents’ secret recipes that heal the soul
Visits from grandkids and adult children for fun community activities
Surprise plans for fun days out
Delivery of homemade meals and groceries
Attendance at sporting events or award ceremonies
Continuation of family movie or game nights

These activities not only strengthen bonds and establish closer relationships, but also allow for more carefree living and joy knowing the best of both worlds is possible.

A move can mean peace of mind with planned-for care.

A move to a senior living community like Waterstone of Lexington offers access to future care services, along with the opportunities for socialization. This allows seniors to receive care and support if needed, without putting stress onto their adult children. They have access to everything they need in one convenient location – gourmet dining, housekeeping, maintenance services, lifelong learning and more. This allows adult children to rest easy and focus on spending meaningful time together – instead of having to focus solely on all the tasks and support their loved one may need assistance with each day.

In short, senior living communities like Waterstone of Lexington provide everything seniors need to age well in the active, engaging environment they love – and close to those they love.

And yes, it keeps you close to grandchildren.

We know we said this wasn’t the only reason to move to a senior living community near your family members, but it definitely doesn’t hurt! Living closer means establishing close, healthy relationships with grandkids while getting to spend more time with them!

If you’d ask any grandparent if spending more time with their grandchildren is something they would want, we’re fairly certain they’d answer with an ecstatic “Yes!” It’s important to make sure, though, that this community offers everything that you or your loved one will need in the future, ensuring:

The ability to remain close to family without needing to make another move to receive assistance with activities of daily living
Peace of mind knowing loved ones are always close by and just a phone call away

Waterstone of Lexington: Putting Seniors Close to Family and Fun

Offering independent living, assisted living and memory care on campus from the experts at Bridges^® by EPOCH, Waterstone of Lexington will offer an active retirement lifestyle, supportive living services and peace of mind in a location families love. Situated right off of Route 2, with easy access to Boston and surrounding areas, you’ll find the perfect senior living community for enjoying family and fun. Come see how we redefine independent living and assisted living with a visit to our Welcome Center in Belmont. Waterstone of Lexington will open in fall 2022.

Uncategorized

Your Guide to Senior Living Care Types

Post author By Michael Schwartz
Post date June 24, 2022

Senior couple reviewing information on a laptop computer

As we reach retirement age, we may start to hear a range of senior living terms thrown around. From retirement and independent living communities to nursing homes and home care, senior housing and care options can confuse anyone. This is especially true when you’re searching for a lifestyle that fits your needs and preferences – and provides a solid plan for the future.

Fortunately, some senior living communities like Waterstone on High Ridge offer a continuum of care. This means our community features a range of care services and living options – ranging from independent living to dedicated memory care – to meet the needs of aging older adults. Not only does this make choosing a community easier, but it helps provide peace of mind while removing care type confusion.

Are you or a loved one considering your senior living community options? Check out our senior care guide to learn the differences for yourself.

Senior Living: Types of Housing and Care

Independent Living

Independent living communities provide an active and engaging lifestyle for seniors. With freedom from the hassles and burdens of homeownership like maintenance, housekeeping and daily cooking, residents can enjoy days as they choose. Here are just some of the many amenities, services, and activities that independent living communities such as Waterstone on High Ridge offer seniors:

Social activities with friends and active involvement in community life
Gourmet, chef-prepared meals
Health and wellness programs by trained professionals
A full calendar of lectures, concerts and other cultural programs and events
Group classes and special interest clubs
Convenient on-site amenities such as a swimming pool, library, bistro, movie theater and art studio

For those who require some assistance to remain living independently, there may be supportive services available within their private apartments. These services are usually supplied through partnerships with trusted third-party healthcare providers.

At Waterstone on High Ridge, our on-site care services allow older adults to enjoy their independent living lifestyle with confidence. With just the right amount of added support, they can remain in their luxury independent living apartment, with world-class amenities, programs, and services just outside their door.

Assisted Living

For seniors who need more regular assistance with activities of daily living – like dressing, bathing, and eating – typically choose an assisted living community. In many communities, residents live in private apartments and receive 24-hour monitoring and support. Most assisted living lifestyles include:

Personal care assistance
Medication management
Three meals served daily
Housekeeping and maintenance
Social events and programs
Activities and entertainment
Health and wellness programs
Regularly scheduled transportation

Residents in assisted living at Waterstone on High Ridge enjoy all these benefits while receiving the care they need to live their best life. Within private assisted living apartments, we personalize care and wellness plans for each resident. We also coordinate with ancillary providers if needed.

Memory Care

Those living with memory loss can benefit from living in a specialized environment created for their specific needs. With the support of a specially trained team, memory care residences offer:

24-hour supervised care and personal assistance
Assistance with meals
Medication management
Specialized activities, events, and programs
Exercise and wellness classes
Housekeeping and laundry services
Access to services and amenities tailored to individual needs and abilities

At Waterstone on High Ridge, our dedicated Bridges^® memory care neighborhood is supported by the experts at Bridges ^® by EPOCH. Created exclusively for those with memory loss, residents benefit from a research-based, thoughtfully designed environment. With uplifting spaces, creative programming, and compassionate caregivers, we inspire joy, connection, and peace in daily life.

Additional Types of Care

While there are other types of care available, independent living, assisted living and memory care are typically the most sought-after senior housing and care types.

For seniors who require 24-hour care for a medical condition, skilled nursing may be necessary. If short-term support, therapy services or restoration are needed after illness or injury, a senior may look for a rehabilitation center.

To learn more about the care types at Waterstone on High Ridge and see how it can fit with your needs, reach out to our Senior Advisor today. We are here to help.

Enjoy the Lifestyle You Love with Three Levels of Care

Waterstone on High Ridge is proud to offer three levels of support to meet the needs of older adults. Situated on a beautiful hillside setting, residents love living here. Are you ready to learn more about our engaging, supportive lifestyle? To attend an open house or join us for an upcoming event, register on our website today.

SUPPORT WHEN YOU NEED IT. HOME THE WAY YOU LIKE IT.

Waterstone on High Ridge offers a modern approach to senior living in a beautiful hilltop setting. Come see how we redefine independent living, assisted living and memory care in Fairfield County, just minutes away from fine restaurants, retail stores and cultural venues in Stamford and Greenwich.

Westchester

The Best Places in White Plains to Visit with the Grandkids

Post author By Michael Schwartz
Post date June 23, 2022

Senior woman with her young grandson on a swing set

The United States is full of great things to see and do, but sometimes, it’s great to just be a tourist in your hometown – or, in our residents’ case – in the location of their ideally situated retirement community. In the heart of White Plains, New York, Waterstone of Westchester’s senior living residents enjoy a range of fine retailers, dining venues, cultural events, and attractions. What makes it even better, though, is the ability to explore with grandchildren of all ages.

Whether your grandchildren live nearby and visit frequently or are coming from afar to visit you at your senior living community, you can be prepared for a summer packed with fun by checking out some of the many things to do in White Plains!

The Best Places in White Plains to Check Out with Your Grandkids

When it comes to White Plains in Westchester County, kids and adults alike can enjoy a world of entertainment. With activities for those who are younger, older – and young at heart – there’s something for everyone.

Visit World-Class Shopping Centers and Stores

When your grandchildren visit, you can all get started on this season’s shopping – or plan for next school year’s wardrobe! Located close to the flagship Bloomingdales and a range of other shopping venues in downtown White Plains, your grandkids can be set in style.

If shopping is not hands-on enough for them, or if they are just a little too young to delight in an afternoon of shopping, they may enjoy a chance to make fun memories by visiting the LEGO^® Store at The Westchester, or by making a furry friend at Build-a-Bear Workshop^®.

Sample of Some of Your Favorite Dining Venues Together

Want to spice up your dining adventures and give your grandkids a well-rounded taste of the city you love? Take a progressive tour of your favorite restaurants and dining venues! Begin by stopping at one location for appetizers, then visit another restaurant for entrées, and finally, satisfy your sweet tooth with dessert at your go-to spot.

If that’s too much food to handle or if you’re looking for something more casual, visit your favorite brunch spot or share your favorite coffee shop with your teenage grandchildren. If they are 21 or over, show them your favorite place to stop for drinks with friends.

Visit the Farmers Market

From fresh produce to a fun time out, your grandkids can relish a taste of homegrown goodness at the local White Plains’ farmers market. Pick up some fruits and vegetables and get inspired to make a meal together at home. It’s a great way to savor quality time while cooking up some new favorite recipes.

Revel in Music, Stories and Performing Arts

Known as one of White Plains’ favorite outdoor activities, indulge in a range of outdoor concerts, stories and history shared by various artists. If you would rather sit down for a show or a theater production, the White Plains Performing Arts Center is certainly the place to go. Before establishing your plans, be sure to check out the calendar to see what’s going on or if any events have been added or changed.

Attend an Art Exhibition, Workshop or Event at ArtsWestchester

From art classes and festivals to workshops and lectures, those who love music, art and all things theater will love ArtsWestchester. Check out their events calendar for details about upcoming events, classes, educational opportunities and more.

Explore Nature or Get Outside and Get Active

Strap on your boots and navigate the hiking trails at Silver Lake Preserve or one of White Plains’ many other nature preserves. If your grandchildren are more into immersing themselves in the experience, stop at Cranberry Lake Preserve. At Cranberry Lake Preserve, they can participate in a nature program, explore interactive, educational displays, and see live animals.

Alternatively, release some energy and get some exercise by taking your grandkids to Saxon Woods Park. Here, there are plenty of activities for kids of all ages to enjoy. Hit the playground, play a couple rounds of golf, or cool off and make a splash at the Saxon Woods splash pad.

Tips for Setting Off on Your Adventures

While it’s certainly fun to be spontaneous, planning can make your pursuits even more full of family fun. For a season of successful visits, try these tips.

Plan Out the Stops You’ll Be Visiting Together

One of the best parts of planning a trip is the excitement of knowing you’re visiting a place you’ve always wanted to experience. When planning places to visit and things to do together, make sure to consider their interests. Remember to try to find an activity that fits everyone’s preferences and abilities.

Dress for the Event and Plan for Bad Weather – Especially Outdoors

There is nothing worse than when the weather doesn’t cooperate. If you know you’ll be attending an outdoor event, be sure to pack essential items like sunscreen in case of high UV rays and an umbrella so you’re prepared in the event of rain. If you’re going to a park, make sure you are dressed to play!

Don’t Let Hunger Put a Stop to Your Fun

A trip can be quickly derailed by hunger, so it’s crucial to schedule time for meals or to pack various snacks and drinks.

Capture Plenty of Photographs

These memories with grandkids are precious, so it’s always a great idea to take as many pictures as possible. Make sure you don’t forget to be present in the photographs with your grandkids, too – even if they are just selfies!

Discover the Fun Beyond White Plains

Waterstone of Westchester is located near many great daytrip locations. With destinations like New York City, attractions in New England, surrounding amusement parks and more, it’s easy to simply get on a train and enjoy a new experience.

Plan Your Visit

For more information on planning a visit with your grandkids or to learn about some more fun places to visit in White Plains, contact our team. We’d be happy to share more about the great things our location offers seniors and their families!

If you are interested in a senior housing option that puts you close to all the action of White Plains and Westchester County, we can help. Schedule your visit for an inside look today.

Waterstone of Westchester. Now This Is Home.

Waterstone of Westchester is a brand-new, premier independent living community in White Plains, NY. We’re close to exquisite shopping, fine dining and cultural attractions. Come visit our beautiful location and see how Waterstone puts wellness at the heart of our community.

Tags Senior Living, volunteering, Waterstone of Westchester

Lexington

Ways to Prevent Cognitive Decline and Improve Brain Health

Post author By Michael Schwartz
Post date January 28, 2022

Senior couple enjoying the outdoors together

As an older adult, whether you worry about the possible onset of dementia or have noticed a decline in your memory or recall, it is likely that you have thought about ways to keep your mind sharp as you age. Continue reading to learn five concrete ways you can stimulate your brain and ward off cognitive decline.

Engage in Stimulating Activities

There are many pastimes that older adults can take up that can increase intellectual acumen. With relative ease, you can do any of the following:

Challenge your cognitive skills with brain games like Lumosity or brainHQ.
Visit your community library and check out books on new and nuanced subjects.
Work on the crossword puzzle in your local or national newspaper.
Journal about your day or anything else that grabs your attention.
Listen to podcasts about material or news that interest you.

Expose Yourself to New Learning

While learning a new language is a well-established way of improving neuroplasticity, stretching yourself to learn anything new can be good for your brain. Think of it this way: If you are challenging your brain to solve problems it has never solved before, you are traversing new terrain and creating new pathways in your brain.

When Waterstone of Lexington opens this fall, you’ll find unique programming that can be tailored to your needs and interests, including craft workshops, lecture series, fitness classes, and so much more. A full calendar of events and social opportunities will provide you with mentally stimulating opportunities for personal growth.

Enjoy Ample Time Outdoors

Almost everyone can attest to the relief and uplift that can come from time spent outdoors. Whether it is a hike through the woods or a quiet evening on your patio, there is scientific evidence that demonstrates that this is time well spent. In fact, it can improve one’s mood and brain structure, which in turn can positively affect memory and concentration.

Future residents will be able to stimulate these mental processes by utilizing our walking paths, dining in our outdoor venue, or practicing your golf skills at our putting green at Waterstone of Lexington. Consider taking up outdoor hobbies like bird watching, fishing or plein air painting. Take an outdoor yoga class or reacquaint yourself with your bike. This outdoor activity could be beneficial to both your body and your brain.

Foster Community and Connection

Intellectual wellness is closely associated with mental health, and sustaining healthy connections with old family and friends and new community members can assist with both. Traditional care plans may not explicitly address this need, but senior living communities across the nation offer an abundance of possible ways to maintain and create relationships.

Interactions don’t have to be complicated. The mere act of holding a conversation can keep your brain alert, attentive, and engaged. You can join a book club, establish recurring coffee dates or dinner parties or volunteer your time to a particular community. And if you are a resident of Waterstone of Lexington, you can attend the regularly scheduled social and cultural events that we host.

Increase Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Your Diet

When it comes to your intellectual health, everything matters, including your diet. Doctors and professional caregivers recommend that older adults boost their intake of omega-3 fats to support brain health.

Many seniors take a fish oil supplement to receive the recommended dosage, but some studies suggest that your body absorbs the nutrients better when you instead include fish in your diet. Fish like barramundi, salmon, trout or sardines are great sources of omega-3 fatty acids that can contribute to your cognitive health.

We Care at Waterstone of Lexington

Wellness has dimensions, and we care about every facet of your health here at Waterstone of Lexington. Let us help you create a plan to maintain your mental and intellectual health while taking advantage of the programming and possibilities we will offer each day when we open in the fall of 2022. Contact us at 781.728.3037 to schedule your personal visit to our Welcome Center.

The Circle

An Emphasis on Wellness in Senior Living Communities

Post author By Michael Schwartz
Post date January 28, 2022

Diverse group of seniors enjoying breakfast together

According to a survey by the International Council on Active Aging, senior living industry leaders are embracing a new model that emphasizes wellness. While older approaches are care-based with options for wellness, these new methods are wellness-based opportunities in daily life with options for care.

Out of all respondents to the survey, 72% rated wellness/lifestyle as high priority, and 64% of participants classified wellness across all dimensions as a ‘must-have.’ A focus on the seven dimensions of wellness – physical, spiritual, emotional, vocational, environmental, social and intellectual – represents a paradigm shift.

Waterstone at the Circle, along with other leading senior living communities across the country, are proud to take a multifaceted approach to create a culture of wellness for residents through its programs, amenities and services.

Utilizing Technological Advances for Health

Today’s senior living communities are challenging the notion that older adults are not open to technological advances. In fact, older adults are just as enthusiastic about how technology can streamline and enhance their lifestyle as the next person!

Technology like smartwatches or specialized phone apps can help monitor and track vitals, such as oxygen levels, heart rate or rhythm, sleep, nutrition, glucose and even stress levels. This real-time information not only can be shared with doctors but can also help seniors make daily lifestyle changes every day to improve their overall health. Senior living communities like Waterstone at the Circle are also encouraging the use of telehealth services to provide convenient care to their residents.

Focusing on Healthy Living

While senior living traditionally makes a fitness center available to residents to improve health outcomes and overall well-being, it is increasingly popular to offer additional amenities and programs to promote wellness in body, mind and spirit. Waterstone at the Circle offers a modern fitness center with senior-friendly exercise equipment and a heated indoor pool, as well as a full-service salon. To promote cognitive wellness, Waterstone hosts a variety of guest lectures and cultural programs for lifelong learning.

Professional trainers help Waterstone at the Circle residents create personalized fitness plans based on their current ability levels and fitness goals. Private workout sessions and group exercise classes, including MovementX, Hydro Fit and Rise Up, are led by certified fitness and aquatic instructors.

Utilizing Design To Promote Mental Health

There really is something about a well-designed room, a clean space, and a well-lit home that is uplifting. Research supports this anecdotal evidence: Homes impact our emotional state.

Senior living communities, therefore, are on the right track when they prioritize the aesthetics of senior housing, allow for choice when setting up personal spaces, and offer maintenance services to help older adults with upkeep. Waterstone at the Circle puts all of this at the forefront with their bright, stylish apartment living. Apartments offer premier finishes and fine details that welcome residents home to style and convenience – complete with stunning views of the Boston skyline or Chestnut Hill Reservoir.

Recognizing the Importance of Dining

Perhaps the enjoyment of quality food with a variety of choices is not among the first variables you list when you consider wellness. We tend to think about nutrition first. But the overall dining experience represents a much more dynamic influence on our health and wellness.

Senior living communities, more and more, are recognizing the benefit of offering resident-centered meal service. At Waterstone at the Circle, this takes the form of multiple dining options with diverse menus featuring seasonal, freshly prepared meals – at flexible mealtimes. Perhaps even more importantly, the dining room environment offers the ideal opportunity for connection to help enhance social and emotional wellness.

Expanding the Possibility of New Experiences

A key to living a life well, for many, is to be offered a lifestyle with options. Especially for older adults who have lived a rich life full of possibilities, the transition into a senior living community should present them with choices to grow, learn and discover new things.

Across the county, you might notice events and activities at retirement communities that facilitate the acquisition of new skills or unlock the freedom to experiment with new forms of self-expression. Maybe there are excursions into the larger community, community service projects or trips planned with brand-new sites to explore, or maybe experts are brought in as guest speakers.

At Waterstone at the Circle, a dedicated life enrichment team explores new, creative ways to engage residents in programs, culture, education and events that spark their interest and improve their health. Each day is an opportunity to make life tailored just the way you like it.

Finding Your Best Life at Waterstone at the Circle

All these offerings represent this new movement to emphasize the less obvious aspects of wellness and the impact they have on one another. Promoting an experience that encourages purpose and connection can ultimately lead to improved physical health – and offer a higher quality of life.

At Waterstone at the Circle, you will feel our dedication to whole-person wellness. Contact us at 617.431.1880 to learn how a move to The Circle can help you reach your health and wellness goals in retirement.