Category: The Circle

When it comes time to consider senior housing, you may hear about a range of different choices. From various buy-in communities to straight-forward rental communities, the options for senior living may look similar at first, but there are many differences.

When trying to choose the best independent living option for yourself or a loved one, consider the similarities and differences to come up with the best solution for your personal situation.

Assessing the Similarities of Rentals and Buy-Ins

What makes these two options so appealing to older adults? Many times, it’s the carefree lifestyle that frees residents from everyday burdens such as home maintenance, housekeeping and yardwork. Instead, they can put aside endless to-do lists and instead spend more time on enjoying all that retirement life has to offer. Not only this, but opportunities for social engagement often abound just outside their doors.

At both rental and buy-in senior living communities, a range of activities, events and programs are offered that are specially planned to meet residents’ interests. At Waterstone at the Circle, a rental community located in Boston, MA, residents enjoy daily opportunities for growth, creativity and connection. Senior living communities – whether they are buy-in or rental – offer a range of convenient services and amenities designed to make life more simple, worry-free and fulfilling.

Another significant aspect of life at senior living communities is dining. Especially at Waterstone at the Circle, dining is a true culinary experience that allows for socialization, a focus on proper nutrition and, of course, five-star service.

Divulging the Differences Between Rentals and Buy-Ins

Now that we know the lifestyle offered at buy-in and rental senior living communities is often very similar, we’ll explore the key differences that may make one option more appealing for active, on-the-go seniors.

Entrance Fees and Monthly Fees

Before establishing what the right option is for you, it’s important to know what each one entails financially. A rental senior living community may require a small up-front fee or security deposit, but it allows you to pay a month-to-month fee for your senior living apartment. This gives seniors the ability to enjoy a carefree retirement lifestyle without the hassles of homeownership – and without being locked into an extensive long-term contract.

A buy-in community requires an entrance fee. Often, this is a significant sum that is paid up front and may or may not be refundable when a resident moves out. This entrance fee is in addition to the regular monthly fee. Not only does a buy-in community have a large impact on your assets, but it also ties up your funds in up-front costs.

At a rental senior living community like Waterstone at the Circle, residents maintain control of their assets to use as they wish – whether that’s for traveling, investing or something else.

Flexibility

Rental senior living communities also typically provide more flexibility when it comes to the possibility of making a chance in the future. For example, if a resident chooses to make a move at Waterstone at the Circle, a 60 days’ notice can satisfy their lease, allowing them to move on their own terms.

When it comes to CCRCs and other buy-in communities, residents often must wait until their unit re-sells before they are able to recover any refundable portion of the initial entrance fee. In some cases, residents may lose a significant amount of their upfront fees if they choose to move.

Care Options

Some rental senior living communities offer access to on-site supportive care services in the event health needs change over time. Waterstone at the Circle partners with premier care providers to help ensure residents’ needs are met – and can be delivered in the comfort and privacy of residents’ apartments. This means residents never pay for care they do not, or may not ever, need.

Care in many buy-in communities often means being locked into care systems that are dictated by the CCRC itself. Essentially, residents are paying for a continuum of care that may be costly and one that they may never actually need. Sometimes in a buy-in community, residents who require assistance with activities of daily living may be asked to move to a different part of the community where that care is provided and couples may be separated when care needs no longer match.

So, Which Is the Best Option?

It’s important to do your research about both options to be sure you’re making the best choice for your personal situation. In any case, getting an inside look by making a personal visit to a senior living community can give you a more well-rounded view when deciding. While you’re touring, talk to team members and ask residents about their experiences.

Why do our residents choose Waterstone at the Circle? Ultimately, it comes down to the freedom to live the lifestyle they desire along with financial flexibility that a rental senior living community affords. Residents love The Circle because of the concierge-style services, impressive amenities, luxury floor plans, social opportunities, supportive care services and ideal location at the foot of Chestnut Hill.

WATERSTONE AT THE CIRCLE. NOW THIS IS HOME.

For more information about Waterstone at the Circle, Boston’s premier independent living community for seniors 62 and over, contact us today.

Despite its big city status, Boston often has the feel of a charming small town. In fact, according to the U.S. News & World Report, Boston is one of the best places in the country to retire. As an important cultural and social center in American history, it’s often referred to as the Cradle of Liberty.

If you’re considering a move for the next stage of your life, a senior living community might be the perfect option for you. While the amenities and services that communities offer will vary, Waterstone at the Circle offers older adults the added benefit of having easy access to restaurants, cultural attractions, and premier retail establishments of Boston.

Keep reading to learn more about why Boston is perfect for retirement.

6 Reasons Boston Is Your Ideal Retirement Destination

Here are some activities that exemplify what retiring in Massachusetts can add excitement to your later years. Along with the modern convenience of living in a luxury independent living community like Waterstone at the Circle, you’ll enjoy the best of Boston just outside your door.

Located at the foot of Chestnut Hill, this Waterstone community is just minutes from Boston’s cultural center, offering an endless variety of fun activities.

1. Beautiful and Bustling City Life
   As one of the top ten most walkable cities in the country, Boston’s unique layout is reliably connected by the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, also referred to as the T. Throughout the city you can find boutique shopping, fine dining, theaters and more. Visit Faneuil Hall Marketplace, the Bunker Hill monument, Fenway Park, Boston Public Library or the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.
2. World-Class Bostonian Culture
   Take a step into the past by seeing an exhibit at the Museum of Fine Arts, expanding your mind at the Museum of Science or brushing up on your American history at the USS Constitution Museum. And don’t forget Boston Pops and their annual Fourth of July Celebration!
3. Lifelong Learning Opportunities
   Walk the campuses and sample the student culture of Boston College, Harvard, MIT, Tufts University, Northeastern University and many more. Then there are those historic, prestigious schools that provide opportunities for lifelong learning, such as the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Massachusetts Boston.
4. Cutting-Edge Healthcare and Medical Centers
   Some of the nation’s top medical facilities are here in Boston, including Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, Tufts Medical Center and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, along with many other leading research hospitals.
5. Inviting Parks and Public Grounds
   Waterstone at the Circle sits right next door to Cassidy Park and is just a moment’s walk from the Chestnut Hill Reservoir. For those who want to spend the afternoon exploring, the world-famous Boston Common or Boston Public Garden are great options.
6. Nearby Destination Spots

Waterstone at the Circle in the heart of Boston also puts you close to The Cape, Plymouth Rock, Salem and Marblehead. Aside from the friendly atmosphere of famed Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard, Boston offers quaint and luxurious destinations close by like the Freedom Trail or The Paul Revere House.

Waterstone at the Circle Inspires an Active Lifestyle

It’s easy to find enjoyment, fulfillment and opportunities for personal growth in our community – close to Chestnut Hill’s lifestyle center, The Street.

Join daily programs designed by a team of professionals who are committed to your overall well-being to pursue hobbies and interests. Take a class to develop your creativity or learn to paint. Attend a film screening with your friends. Strengthen your body and improve your endurance and dexterity at the fitness center.

A luxurious, active lifestyle filled with entertainment, exercise, socialization and hobbies awaits you at Waterstone at the Circle. No matter your interests, The Circle always has something to offer.

Waterstone at the Circle. Now This Is Home.

Waterstone at the Circle offers a modern approach to luxury in a historical setting. Come see how we redefine independent living in Boston.

Oftentimes, as older adults begin to think about downsizing, they wonder if there are any upsides. Moving away from a family home can be a daunting experience. There is no doubt that it is a significant change that requires a lot of thought. A family home represents hard work over a long career and a testament to a well-lived life.

While some may find it easy to see the negatives of downsizing, others who have made the move to a senior living community can share that there are some major upsides that come along with the transition. There may come a time when moving to a community makes the most sense for your situation, so we’ve gathered some examples of the value that a senior living residence can add to your life.

Keep reading to learn three major reasons why downsizing now can upsize your lifestyle and what you can expect from a move to senior living.

Upside 1: Live Each and Every Day Exactly How You Like

At premier senior living communities like Waterstone at the Circle, you’re sure to find something that suits your interests. You’re never too old to learn and grow – and even discover something new about yourself.

Joining a dynamic community that’s fully dedicated to your well-being – and entertainment – is one of the best ways to achieve this. When you’re looking into senior living options, be sure to explore what each community offers in terms of apartment features, amenities, and supportive services.

Upside 2: Save Time on Home Maintenance

It can be stressful and unpredictable to manage a house. With a move to a senior living community, you might be surprised how much of your time you actually get back to spend on things that matter the most to you.

Upkeep can seem endless at times. Plus, the bigger the space, the more tasks it requires to keep it in good condition. Let go of the cleaning and cooking. Say goodbye to raking leaves and shoveling snow. Stop worrying about unexpected maintenance and repairs. In addition to regular housekeeping and enhanced maintenance, senior living communities such as Waterstone at the Circle also offer dedicated concierge services to help you plan and coordinate any outside services you might need. Plus, with restaurant-style meals featuring seasonal, freshly prepared selections, you don’t have to plan, prepare or cook any of your meals – unless you want to.

Upside 3: De-Stress with Just What You Need

Downsizing can be a challenging process; there’s no doubt about that. But it can be manageable when you break it down into smaller steps. And the result really pays off.

By going through and paring your possessions down, you can focus on keeping only the items that bring you happiness and have purpose for this stage of your life. It can be a relief when you have finished and lead to a more stream-lined life where you can focus on enjoyment instead of tasks and chores.

Ultimately, moving into a retirement community like Waterstone at the Circle allows you to enjoy a carefree lifestyle – and gain a sense of control and calm over your life. With a premier apartment featuring designer finishes, you can relax in a modern and luxurious setting – without any of the hassles of homeownership.

Waterstone at the Circle. Now This Is Home.

Waterstone at the Circle offers independent living and supportive care options in beautiful Boston. Contact us for more information.

Today, seniors – who can be as young as 55 – are redefining what this life stage means in a big, big way. Unlike in the past, when “retiring” and being a “senior” sometimes meant living life in quiet seclusion, older adults are ready to embrace this stage of life to the fullest. No doubt you’ve heard of seniors who are starting new businesses, charting new careers, reinventing themselves and otherwise making the young’uns jealous of their freedom, excitement and sense of adventure.

“Retirement is an exciting time of life, and moving into senior living is a great way for older adults to jump-start those adventures,” says Kevin Defayette, Executive Director of Waterstone at the Circle. “Today’s communities are like resorts in a sense: they’re all-inclusive and maintenance-free, giving residents all the time in the world to enjoy their lives to the fullest.”

Kevin explains that today’s senior living experience has been designed to help seniors age well and be well, no matter how old or young they are. “Communities such as Waterstone at the Circle are designed to help older adults embrace every opportunity,” Kevin says. “There’s no reason you should have to slow down once you reach a certain age. At our community, we provide the framework to make sure that our residents enjoy a lifestyle that’s productive, pleasant and fulfilled.”

Choose a home that’s a good fit.

If you’re considering living your best life in senior living, the first step is to choose a home that is the best fit for you and your lifestyle. In order to do that, take some time to think about what’s important to you. What sort of lifestyle would make you happy? What needs and wants do you have in your home? What can’t you live without, and what can you live without? Once you have your list in place, you’ll be able to research options in your desired area and pinpoint what locations would suit you best.

Get involved in activities that excite you.

Once you’ve chosen a community and moved in, the next big step is to get involved in daily life. Life in your new community should not be boring – instead, you should be more involved and engaged than ever before – if you want to be. One of the best ways to get settled into your new lifestyle is by finding activities, hobbies and events that excite you. Learn a new language, join an exercise group, start a book club, take nature walks or do whatever else is enjoyable for you. This is your chance to connect with other individuals with the same interests who are looking for new friends.

Make a community within the community.

Socialization is vital for a healthy life for older adults. When children move away and friends move or pass on, it can become pretty isolating. Loneliness can result in depression, anxiety and other illnesses. Moving into senior living gives older adults the opportunity to create a community of caring friends with whom you can participate in activities and build meaningful friendships.

Find new hobbies.

Is there something you’ve always wanted to learn how to do but have never had the chance to pursue? Moving into senior living gives you the time and space to explore those interests that were not feasible before. Take some time to look at your community’s events calendar and look for things that interest you. Try something that interests you or sounds completely foreign. The best part is that you don’t have to continue with it if you don’t like it! You can keep looking for new hobbies that excite you – and perhaps even start your own group.

Pick up old favorites.

Many of us have interests that have fallen by the wayside. Senior living allows us to pursue those interests and pick up favorite activities that have long been forgotten. Did you enjoy playing the piano when you were younger? Maybe you were fluent in French and always wanted to visit Paris. Or perhaps knitting was something that brought you together with other individuals in your family. Senior living gives you the chance to pick up those long-forgotten hobbies and make them part of your everyday life.

Volunteer.

Many seniors choose to dedicate time in retirement to causes and organizations in which they believe. These causes span the gamut from being a mentor to students, caring for animals at the humane society, becoming a consultant for new businesses, joining a Foster Grandparent program or anything else that moves and fulfills you. Moving into senior living helps you pursue this passion due to the all-inclusive nature of life and the maintenance-free lifestyle.

“This can be the best phase of your life to date,” Kevin explains. “You still have energy, the funds and the drive to do the things that move you, without any of the tedious responsibilities of work and family. Moving into a community like Waterstone at the Circle is a great way to jump-start this new chapter of life. What are you waiting for?”

Luxury Senior Living in Boston

Waterstone at the Circle, located in Boston’s historic Cleveland Circle neighborhood, is more than just independent living in Boston … it’s a sophisticated urban setting for today’s active seniors. Enjoy best-in-class service and an urban lifestyle with arts, cultural and historical attractions right outside your front door. From high-end amenities to gourmet dining and more, experience the best of city and suburban life at our upscale senior living community located on the crossroads of Brookline and Chestnut Hill.

Elegant Independent Living Apartments

Each of our 92 independent living apartments is the height of luxury and modernity, with sophisticated design, upscale features and stunning views of the city. Create the urban senior living experience you want with one- or two-bedroom apartments, a variety of floor plans and monthly rentals.

Senior Living Supportive Services

As an over-62 community, residents may require support from time to time. That’s why we’ve developed an on-site coordinated care program, in cooperation with our premier community partners, that allows our independent living residents to receive the assistance they need.

The best part? Residents don’t have to leave our senior living community – or even their apartment – to receive high-quality support. They can receive the services they need, when they need them, in the comfort of their own homes or in our on-site therapy gym.

Waterstone at the Circle is the opposite of retiring . . . it’s a place to enhance your active, on-the-go lifestyle. Call 617.431.1880 for more information or to schedule a visit to our premier Boston independent living community and discover The Circle lifestyle today!

When it’s time to select a community for your retirement, there are many factors to consider. Services, amenities, care levels, location, lifestyle … and financial structure. Do you want to move to a ‘buy-in’ community or a ‘rental-style’ community?

“The two different payment types of communities are rental, like Waterstone at the Circle, or communities that require an entrance fee as a sort of down payment for future care needs,” says Kevin Defayette, Executive Director of Waterstone at the Circle. “Both types of communities can be excellent options depending on your needs, but you’ll really want to carefully consider what your needs are in a community, and what sort of option will best fit the retirement lifestyle you’re looking for.”

While communities that require an entrance fee – generally known as Life Plan Communities – have become very popular, Kevin says that there has recently been a shift toward more upscale, premier rental options for the aging Baby Boomer population. “Today’s seniors want the ultimate choice and flexibility for their retirement, which is why we designed Waterstone at the Circle to be a rental-style community,” he explains. “This gives our residents peace of mind that they aren’t being locked into any long-term contracts or commitments while also being able to receive all the care and assistance they may require in the future, if they so wish. That flexibility provides supreme convenience and personalization for our residents, and allows our team to focus on delivering an exceptional retirement lifestyle like none you’ll find elsewhere.”

How a Rental Community Works

If you’ve ever rented an apartment or home before, then you understand exactly how a fee structure at a rental retirement community works. It’s simple. Our residents pay a one-time membership fee and then pay one monthly fee moving forward. That fee ensures residents a maintenance-free lifestyle complete with dining, fitness, activities, events and so much more.

If, for whatever reason, residents require additional services to live the active and independent lives they love, rental communities often provide access to supportive services for an additional fee. At Waterstone at the Circle, we’ve partnered with some of the best Boston-area healthcare providers to bring on-demand supportive services directly to our residents – right within the comfort of their apartment homes. It’s independent living at its finest – with the confidence that comes from knowing assistance is always available so you can continue to live in the trusted community you’ve come to know and love.

The Benefits of a Rental Community

A maintenance-free and carefree lifestyle.

Independent living at a rental retirement community is all the perks of homeownership without any of the tedious tasks and chores. No more having to deal with home or lawn maintenance. No more dealing with winter snow and all the headaches that come from cold weather. No more dealing with meal planning and cooking, either (unless you still want). Instead, all that time formerly spent on managing household things can be spent on managing your next adventure.

Incredible flexibility.

As we’ve mentioned several times, a rental community provides the ultimate in convenience and flexibility. At Life Plan Communities, the significant entrance fee provides peace of mind, but it also “tethers” seniors to the community. Although it is possible to move from a buy-in community, it can be difficult and time-consuming. At a rental retirement community, however, you have no large buy-in and no commitment. At Waterstone at the Circle, we’re month-to-month, which means that if our residents decide they want to move somewhere else for whatever reason, they can do so affordably and easily. It also means that we work hard to continue delivering the exceptional lifestyle, hospitality, and service that residents expect – all day, every day!

Freedom of choice (for healthcare).

One of the reasons seniors may choose a buy-in community is the peace of mind that comes from knowing all levels of care – independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation – are all available on the community campus.

However, a rental community can provide peace of mind by not requiring all healthcare services to be located on site. Sometimes communities that offer comprehensive care have “best in the area” designations for one or more of their healthcare services. It’s very rare for them to have that designation for all of their services. In other words, when you pay into one of those communities, you’re pretty much bound to what’s available. In a rental community, on the other hand, you can choose to use the services available on site – or not. If you need additional services and would prefer to go somewhere else, you’re able to do so easily. It’s rather the best of both worlds – the ability to get care on site if you wish and the freedom to go elsewhere if you so desire.

You only pay for the services you require.

That large entrance fee that you pay for moving into a Life Plan Community is like a down payment against your future healthcare needs. But what if you don’t end up needing additional long-term care? What if you remain healthy and independent for the vast majority of your stay? While most of us will need some form of assistance in our lives, there are also people who remain healthy and active with only minor health concerns.

A rental community contract means that you’re only paying for the services that you need right now. Sure, your costs may increase in the future, but having that freedom (and the liquid assets) now to use your estate and your funds in the way you like can be very freeing. Instead of tying up a large chunk of wealth in a down payment, you can use them instead to travel, start a trust fund for your heirs or whatever else you’d like to do.

You’re free to change your mind whenever you like.

A rental community like Waterstone at the Circle allows you to change your mind – which can provide a lot of peace of mind for today’s seniors. After all, what a “good life” looks like to you in your early 60s may shift as you get older, and that’s okay. A rental community allows you to live your best retirement life today and make choices that ensure your happiness tomorrow. As you age and as your life situation changes, you get to make choices that ensure your happiness then, too. Even if it means staying right where you are – ultimately, the choice is yours.

Is a Rental Community Right for You?

As you’re considering the type of payment structure you’d like for your retirement years, consider these questions:

• What are my health needs now?
• What do I expect my health needs to be in the future?
• What sort of flexibility do I want for my future?
• What are my priorities?
• What feels “right” for me?

There’s no right or wrong choice when it comes to your retirement lifestyle – only the decision that’s right for you. A rental retirement community can provide confidence for now and in the future – which can be a priceless investment.

Luxury Senior Living in Boston

Waterstone at the Circle, located in Boston’s historic Cleveland Circle neighborhood, is more than just independent living in Boston … it’s a sophisticated urban setting for today’s active seniors. Enjoy best-in-class service and an urban lifestyle with arts and cultural, and historical attractions right outside your front door. From high-end amenities to gourmet dining and more, experience the best of city and suburban life at our upscale senior living community located on the crossroads of Brookline and Chestnut Hill.

Elegant Independent Living Apartments

Each of our 92 independent living apartments is the height of luxury and modernity, with sophisticated design, upscale features and stunning views of the city. Create the urban senior living experience you want with one- or two-bedroom apartments, a variety of floor plans and monthly rentals.

Senior Living Supportive Services

As an over-62 community, residents may require support from time to time. That’s why we’ve developed an on-site coordinated care program, in cooperation with our premier community partners, that allows our independent living residents to receive the assistance they need.

The best part? Residents don’t have to leave our senior living community – or even their apartment – to receive high-quality support. They can receive the services they need, when they need it, in the comfort of their own homes or in our on-site therapy gym.

Waterstone at the Circle is the opposite of retiring . . . it’s a place to enhance your active, on-the-go lifestyle. Call 617.431.1880 for more information or to schedule a visit to our premier Boston independent living community and discover The Circle lifestyle today!