Category: The Circle

Embarking on the journey to senior living is a significant transition, one that often involves downsizing from a larger home to a living space more in line with a senior’s needs. While the prospect of downsizing may seem daunting, with careful planning and a step-by-step approach, the process can become more manageable and even liberating.

We’ve created a checklist designed to guide you through the downsizing process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free transition to your new home in a senior living community.

Start Early

Begin the downsizing process well in advance of when you plan to move in order to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Starting early allows for thoughtful decision-making and helps you sort through possessions with less pressure.

At communities like ours, we welcome seniors to speak with our team about setting a reasonable timeline for a move-in. We’re here to help as you navigate this big step!

Assess Your New Space

Understand the layout and dimensions of your new living space in the senior living community. This knowledge will inform your decisions about what to keep, what to donate, and what simply won’t fit.

With a variety of floor plans to choose from, you’ll be sure to find the right space for you and your needs.

Create a Sorting System

Organize your belongings into categories: keep, donate, sell, and discard. It could be helpful to use colored stickers or labels to easily identify each category. This system streamlines the downsizing process.

Prioritize Sentimental Items

Begin with items that hold significant sentimental value. Decide which heirlooms, photos, or mementos are must-keeps, and carefully consider their placement in your new home.

This is also a great time to pass down special items to children and grandchildren, if you desire. Keepsakes that they loved in your home will be meaningful in their own home, too.

Downsize Your Furniture

Assess your furniture in terms of both size and functionality. Opt for multi-functional pieces when possible, and choose items that will complement the layout of your new living space.

This part of the process can be a lot of fun and might lead you to finding new ways to use your furniture that’s perfect for your new residence.

Digitize Documents

Reduce paper clutter by digitizing important documents. Scan and store legal, financial, and medical documents digitally, ensuring easy access without the need for physical storage space.

Important documents you want to ensure are saved include a durable power of attorney, federal and state income tax returns, and medical information such as treatment plans and insurance information.

Address Clothing and Accessories

Streamline your wardrobe by donating or selling clothing and accessories you no longer need. Focus on versatile, seasonless items that will fit comfortably in your new closet space.

Remember to keep any items that are sentimental or valuable to you.

Kitchen Essentials

Pare down your kitchen items to the essentials. Consider the available storage space in your new residence and keep only the cookware, utensils, and dishes you use regularly.

A main perk of senior living is that dining is part of your experience. You’ll enjoy gourmet meals and delicious snacks prepared each day by our culinary team.

Seek Assistance

Enlist the help of family members, friends, or professionals to make the process more efficient. They can provide emotional support and assistance with heavy lifting or logistics.

You can even seek out moving companies that specialize in supporting older adults with the move to a senior living community.

Don’t Forget About Technology

Update your technology to suit your new lifestyle. Consider simplifying your devices and ensuring they are user-friendly for your convenience.

This also might be a fun time to try something new, like an Apple Watch or Amazon Echo.

Plan for Donating and Discarding

Arrange for the proper disposal of items you’re discarding. This may include scheduling a bulk pickup, donating to local charities, or organizing a garage sale.

Manage the Move

Plan the logistics of your move well in advance. Hire professional movers experienced in senior relocations, and make arrangements for transportation and assistance with unpacking at your new home.

Other items you’ll want to considering on moving day include:

• Assigning someone to meet the movers at your new residence.
• If you’re moving with a pet, ensure you have food and water ready for them.
• Packing a small bag with personal items so you’re ready for your first night without digging through boxes.
• Preparing to spend a few days unpacking and organizing.

Settling Into Your New Home

Take the time to acclimate to your new surroundings. Personalize your space with cherished items and gradually explore the amenities and social opportunities offered by the senior living community. There will be many new friends to meet and things to see!

Downsizing is a transformative process that opens the door to a more comfortable and enjoyable living experience. By following this checklist and embracing the change, you’ll find yourself on the path to a fulfilling and vibrant chapter in your golden years.

Rightsized Senior Living at Waterstone at the Circle.

At Waterstone at the Circle, we believe in living bigger within a smaller space. Our luxury lifestyle provides modern conveniences while you enjoy all the benefits of senior living. For our residents, the entire community becomes your home.

Downsizing can be overwhelming, but when you’re planning for your next step, it can also be liberating and inspiring. Give us a call at 617.396.4422 to learn more about how our team helps seniors through the process of moving to senior living.

Finding the perfect gift for the senior in your life can be a delightful but challenging task. Whether this gift is for your grandparents, parents, or a friend, you want to choose something thoughtful that caters to their interests and personality. In this guide, we’ve curated 21 great gifts for older adults, grouped into categories, including unique gifts, options for senior women, and gifts for senior men.

Unique Gifts for Senior Citizens

These options make excellent gifts for people you know well or are just beginning to know. Check out these unique items, which can easily suit anyone on your list!

Life Story Journals

Life story journals provide an excellent opportunity for older adults to document their life experiences, memories and wisdom. These journals often include prompts that help seniors recall and share their stories with future generations, creating a precious family keepsake.

Tea Samplers or Coffee Gift Boxes

Tea samplers and coffee sets are great for seniors who savor their daily dose of caffeine or evening relaxation. You can introduce them to new flavors, or purchase their favorites so they can enjoy their favorite brews in style.

Neck Reading Light

This is a practical gift for seniors who love to read. It provides adjustable illumination and is hands free, making it easier for them to enjoy their favorite books without straining their eyes.

Puzzle Books

Puzzle books, featuring word games like crossword puzzles and even numerical games like Sudoku, offer a fun way for seniors to exercise their minds, improve cognitive skills, and pass the time. They are perfect companions for leisurely afternoons and are even more fun when completed with friends.

Photo Gifts

Photo albums are a timeless gift for seniors. They provide a creative and nostalgic way to display cherished memories while keeping the moments close at hand. Want to take it a step further? Choose a photo and have it made into a jigsaw puzzle for a unique gift they can enjoy over and over again, or even use as framed decor!

Cozy Blankets

Who doesn’t love the warmth and comfort of a cozy blanket? Perfect for snuggling up on chilly evenings, they provide a sense of relaxation for seniors.

A Basket of Favorite Candies or Snacks

Treat your loved one to a basket filled with their favorite candies or snacks. It’s a simple gesture that shows you know their preferences. For a unique twist, consider generational candy baskets with candies from their youth.

Gifts for Senior Women

Not sure what to get the ladies in your life? Here are some good suggestions to help get you started!

Customized Jewelry

Customized jewelry, like a necklace with an engraved message or birthstone, adds a personal touch to the gift. It’s a beautiful and sentimental gesture that can be treasured for years to come.

Art Classes

Art classes provide a creative outlet and an opportunity for self-expression. Perfect for those who enjoy painting, drawing, or other artistic pursuits, gifting them a class can be a source of joy and personal growth.

Gourmet Chocolates

Gourmet chocolates are a luxurious treat to savor. They make for a delightful gift, showcasing your appreciation for their refined taste.

Digital Picture Frames

Digital picture frames allow for a rotating collection of their cherished photos to be displayed. It’s a personalized gift that keeps loved ones close even when they can’t be there in person.

Book Club Subscriptions

Book club subscriptions offer the opportunity to engage in reading, discussion, and social interaction. It’s a gift that keeps on giving, allowing them to discover new books and make new friends.

Aromatherapy Sets

Aromatherapy sets, featuring essential oils and diffusers, can promote relaxation and wellness. They create a tranquil atmosphere, enhancing mood.

A Spa Basket

A spa basket is a spa day in a package. It allows senior women to pamper themselves at home, enjoying scented bath products and skincare treats for a soothing and rejuvenating experience.

Gifts for Senior Men

Does it always seem like you’re searching for the right gift for the man who has everything? Try some of these great gifts.

Digital Tape Measure

A digital tape measure is a handy tool for senior men, making projects easier. It displays measurements clearly, reducing the risk of errors.

A Grooming Subscription Box

Grooming subscription boxes provide senior men with high-quality grooming products, ensuring they look and feel their best.

Craft and Hobby Materials

Discover their hobbies and interests, and gift them materials related to those pursuits. Whether it’s woodworking, model building or gardening, supporting their hobbies is a meaningful gesture.

Personalized Wallet or Money Clip

A personalized wallet or money clip is a practical and stylish gift. Engraving their name or a special message adds a personal touch they’ll appreciate.

Temperature Control Mug

A temperature control mug keeps beverages at the desired temperature, ideal for senior men who enjoy their coffee or tea. It ensures that their drink stays warm from the first sip to the last.

Pocket Knife or Multi-Tool

A pocket knife or multi-tool is a versatile gift for senior men who enjoy the outdoors, DIY projects, or just being prepared for everyday tasks.

Personalized Beer Stein or Glassware

For senior men who appreciate a good brew, personalized beer steins or glassware add a touch of sophistication to their drinking experience. They’ll enjoy raising a toast with these custom items.

Discover Waterstone at the Circle

Explore the gift of a rewarding lifestyle at a senior living community like Waterstone at the Circle. Contact us today to schedule a visit and learn more about our lifestyle.

The weather may be getting colder in Boston, but we’re excited for the magical time of year when the city comes alive with festive decorations and a wide range of activities to enjoy as the seasons change. As we’ve written about before, Boston is the perfect place for retirement. For seniors in Boston, the winter season offers numerous opportunities to stay active, engage with the community, and have a memorable time. In this article, we’ll explore seven winter activities tailored to seniors’ interests and needs, ensuring a delightful and safe experience.

1. Winter Walks in Boston Common

Boston Common, the oldest public park in the United States, transforms into a winter wonderland during the colder months. The park is adorned with sparkling lights and beautifully decorated trees, creating a serene and picturesque setting.

Seniors can enjoy leisurely strolls through the park, taking in the seasonal decorations and the crisp winter air. For added convenience, many benches are available for resting along the way. Winter walks in Boston Common offer a perfect opportunity for seniors to enjoy the festive atmosphere while enjoying the health benefits of staying active and connected with nature.

4. Attend a Live Theater Performance

Boston has a vibrant theater scene, and attending a live performance is an excellent way for seniors to enjoy the arts while staying indoors during the winter. From Broadway shows to local productions to the Boston Opera House, there’s a wide range of options to choose from. Many theaters in Boston are wheelchair accessible and offer senior discounts, making it an affordable and enjoyable outing. The experience of live theater can be truly captivating and is sure to leave seniors with lasting memories.

5. Join a Senior Fitness Class

Staying active during the winter months is essential for seniors’ health and well-being. Many community centers and fitness facilities in Boston offer specialized fitness classes designed specifically for seniors. These classes typically include low-impact exercises, yoga, tai chi, and strength training.

At Waterstone at the Circle, our residents benefit from personal training and group fitness classes in our fitness center and indoor pool – all staffed by expert trainers.

Participating in these classes not only helps seniors stay physically fit but also provides an opportunity to socialize with peers and build a supportive community. Staying active in a warm and indoor environment is a great way to combat the winter blues.

6. Explore Historical Sites

Boston is steeped in history, and winter is an ideal time to explore its rich heritage without the crowds of tourists. Seniors can visit historical sites such as the Freedom Trail, Paul Revere House, and the USS Constitution Museum. Many of these sites offer guided tours that are informative and engaging. Exploring Boston’s historical landmarks allows seniors to connect with the city’s past and gain a deeper appreciation for its significance in American history.

Enjoy the Warmth That Waterstone at the Circle Provides!

Waterstone at the Circle offers a full and engaging lifestyle throughout the year, making it a vibrant and welcoming community for seniors.

Regardless of the season, residents here have access to a rich array of activities and amenities designed to enhance their quality of life. In the winter months, they can gather in cozy common areas for fireside chats, indulge in fine dining experiences, and enjoy cultural events without having to brave the cold.

As spring and summer arrive, the beautifully landscaped outdoor spaces provide opportunities for relaxation and socialization, while wellness programs and fitness classes keep residents active and healthy year-round. Waterstone at the Circle’s commitment to a diverse and enriching calendar of events ensures that seniors can maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle, no matter the season.

No matter the season, there is something exciting happening at our community! If you’re looking for luxury senior living in Boston, give us a call and learn more about our premier rental apartments.

The air is getting cooler, the leaves are beginning to change, and there’s a hint of festivity in the air. This can only mean one thing – fall is on its way.

Whether you’re most excited about the pumpkin-flavored and seasonally scented goods, the ability to break out your coziest clothes and blankets, or the ever-stunning fall foliage drives for leaf peeping, Boston is among the best places to be.

If you’re ready to leaf summer behind and welcome autumn with festive flair, we’re here to help. Check out some of the best fall drives in Boston, MA, with our list below.

Go Beyond Boston

If you’re looking to go outside of Boston, try the Mohawk Trail, Walden Pond, Jacob’s Ladder Scenic Byway, and the Kancamagus Highway, a national scenic byway in the White Mountain National Forest.

The Gift of Years: Growing Older Gracefully | Joan Chittister

In The Gift of Years, Joan Chittister discusses the many facets of the aging process. Regarded as inspirational, topics include:

• Accepting and celebrating getting old
• Aging’s purposes and surprises
• The challenges and struggles of growing older

Aging Wisely: Strategies for Baby Boomers and Seniors | Dr. Robert Levine

Everyone ages; however, not everyone ages well. Aging Wisely shares helpful insights into what happens to our minds and bodies as we age – and how our approach to life, attitudes about ourselves, and feelings about aging can impact that.

This book also reiterates that overall, we are in control of our lives and health, calling on us to take action on items we can control to age well, reduce the risk of physical decline, and lower the chances of memory loss and dementia.

A Man’s Guide to Healthy Aging: Stay Smart, Strong, and Active | Edward H. Thompson, Jr., and Lenard W. Kaye

This comprehensive guide to healthy aging from a man’s perspective discusses all aspects of health as men reach middle age and beyond.

From managing their physical, mental and spiritual health and relationships to creating new careers and contributing their skills and experiences to their communities, this guide truly covers it all.

Healthy Aging: A Lifelong Guide to Your Well-Being | Dr. Andrew Weil

Through all phases of life, Dr. Weil shares that there are many things we can do to keep our bodies and minds in good shape.

Sharing information on nutrition, stress management, exercise, the science of aging, and the facts and myths of anti-aging medicines and techniques, this book is a wonderful educational resource.

The Longevity Paradox: How To Die Young at a Ripe Old Age | Steven R. Gundry, MD

Aging does not need to mean decline. In fact, it can mean living to a ripe old age – with the benefits of youth. How can we achieve this? It might just start with the microorganisms within our bodies, and more specifically, our gut.

These microorganisms control our quality of life, and fortunately, we can help support them. Discover a nutrition and lifestyle plan that can help you prevent and reverse disease while helping you feel younger.

Age Well With an Active Retirement at Waterstone at the Circle

At Waterstone at the Circle, we embrace aging and provide a range of ways to ensure residents age well within our community. No matter residents’ needs, preferences or goals, we’re here to support them with:

• A convenient urban setting close to nature trails, restaurants, retailers and entertainment in Boston and Beyond
• Life enrichment programs featuring lecture series, social opportunities, outings and trips
• An indoor heated pool and fitness center staffed with professional fitness and aquatic instructors
• Access to supportive care services to meet various care needs
• Menus featuring locally grown and sourced ingredients ensuring fresh, delicious and nutritious meal choices

Are you ready to ensure a happy and healthy retirement? Independent living at Waterstone at the Circle is the perfect place to start. Contact us to learn more about our lifestyle or to talk about making a move today.