Category: Wellesley

At Waterstone at Wellesley, our extensive calendar of events ensures that residents always have something fun and engaging to do, no matter the weather. In this blog, we’ll explore a range of enjoyable and accessible activities, many of which we offer at the community, that can brighten the spirits of seniors during the colder months.

As winter settles in and temperatures drop, many seniors find themselves facing the challenge of staying active and engaged indoors. The colder weather can often lead to a sense of isolation and the “winter blues.” However, with a bit of creativity and planning, seniors can beat the winter blues by enjoying a variety of indoor activities that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Physical Activities

Staying active is crucial for maintaining good health, especially during the winter when outdoor exercise might be less appealing. Here are some indoor activities tailored for seniors:

• Chair Yoga: Gentle yoga exercises that can be done while sitting in a chair, promoting flexibility and balance. Low-impact exercises like chair yoga or tai chi improve joint mobility, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.

• Indoor Walking: Create a safe indoor walking path, perhaps around communal spaces at your senior living community or in a shopping mall, to encourage regular movement. You’ll boost your cardiovascular health, help manage your weight, and enjoy a social opportunity if you walk with friends.

• Dance Classes: Take part in dance classes specifically designed for seniors, either in person or through online platforms. Dance classes are a favorite pastime of people young and old, and they enhance mood, improve coordination, and offer a fun way to stay active.

Mental Stimulation

Keeping the mind engaged is vital for cognitive health. Here are some indoor activities that stimulate mental faculties:

• Puzzle Games: Engage in activities like jigsaw puzzles, crosswords, and Sudoku to keep the mind sharp. For many seniors, preserving cognitive function is a priority and puzzles and word games help with that cause, as well as improving problem-solving skills.

• Book Clubs: Join or start a book club to enjoy reading and discussing books with peers. They provide mental stimulation, foster social connections and introduce new ideas. Many times senior living communities like ours offer book clubs that meet monthly.

• Arts and Crafts Projects: Explore creative outlets such as painting, drawing, or crafting to stimulate the imagination. You’ll enhance your fine motor skills and practice self-expression with your newfound artistic skills!

Social Engagement

Maintaining social connections is essential for emotional well-being. Here are some indoor activities that promote social interaction:

• Game Nights: Host regular game nights with friends, family or neighbors, playing board games or card games. Many games have mental health benefits for seniors, but this activity also fosters social bonds, provides entertainment, and encourages friendly competition.

• Social Gatherings: Invite a small group of friends over for dinner or a movie night. If your friends aren’t close or the weather is not cooperating, use video conferencing tools to connect with loved ones for virtual gatherings, celebrations, or simply catching up. The benefits include overcoming physical distance, reducing feelings of isolation, and promoting a sense of community.

• Community Events: Attend local community events or senior center activities to meet new people and engage in group activities. These events create a sense of belonging, introduce variety, and offer opportunities for shared experiences. Don’t forget all the exceptional events offered at senior living communities like ours!

By incorporating a mix of physical activities, mental stimulation, and social engagement, seniors can combat the winter blues and enjoy a fulfilling and enriching indoor lifestyle. The key is to find activities that align with personal interests and preferences, making the winter season a time of joy and connection.

Enjoy Every Season at Waterstone at Wellesley

Our maintenance-free lifestyle means no more shoveling snow and the comfort of being surrounded by things to do at our vibrant community. Our residents are safe, warm and connected all season long. With a range of social, recreational and wellness opportunities planned by our life enrichment team, there’s never a shortage of things to do within our community – no matter the weather!

Give us a call at 781.304.8169 to learn more about life at Waterstone at Wellesley.

Loneliness can have significant adverse effects on the physical and mental health of older adults. Especially with the holidays approaching, it’s important to be aware of the signs of loneliness in older adults so that you can offer support and help them combat isolation.

We’re here to help by sharing the signs you need to know and the various ways you can help your aging parent stop or prevent feelings of loneliness.

Signs of Loneliness in Seniors

If you begin to notice these signs, there’s a good chance your loved one is feeling lonely or isolated.

1 | Social Withdrawal and Decreased Communication

Seniors may withdraw from social activities, clubs, or gatherings they used to enjoy. They might also isolate themselves from family and friends, participate in social interaction even less, or become less responsive to communication attempts. This could show itself through reduced phone calls, text messages, or in-person visits.

2 | Depression and Loss of Interest

Loss of interest in hobbies, activities, or things they once enjoyed can be an indicator of loneliness. This can happen because they may no longer find pleasure in their pastimes, they may no longer have others to share their interests with, or they may be depressed.

As a note, loneliness often leads to an increased risk of feelings of sadness, depression, or anxiety. Seniors may display a persistent low mood and a sense of hopelessness. It’s important to keep an eye on this or reach out to a professional for support, as this can cause a number of health risks and health problems.

3 | Declines in Physical and Cognitive Health

Loneliness has been linked to a decline in physical health, including a weakened immune system, increased inflammation, increased risk of high blood pressure, and a higher risk of chronic diseases. Those experiencing loneliness and isolation might also experience cognitive decline, including problems with memory, concentration and decision-making.

4 | Changes in Habits and Self-Care

Loneliness can lead to a lack of interest in self-care and personal hygiene. Seniors may neglect proper nutrition, experience changes in their sleeping and eating habits, be less prone to grooming, and have trouble keeping up with housekeeping.

5 | Complaints of Pain and Isolation

Loneliness has been associated with heightened perceptions of physical pain, which can lead to more complaints about aches and pains. Seniors also might directly express feelings of isolation, saying that they are lonely or feeling alone.

How To Help a Lonely Parent

Adult children can make a significant difference in preventing and managing loneliness in their aging parent by becoming their support system and finding ways to help them.

Schedule Regular Visits and Quality Time

Spend time with your parent regularly. Loneliness often stems from isolation, and simply being there can provide companionship and comfort. Engage in conversations, play games, or do activities they enjoy.

Encourage Social Activities

Encourage your parent to participate in social activities or join clubs and organizations for seniors. This can help them build new friendships and find a sense of belonging.

Help with Technology

If your parent is open to it, teach them how to use technology to stay connected with friends and family. Setting up video calls, social media accounts, or teaching them how to use email can help bridge the gap.

If you live far away, make an effort to stay in touch through regular phone calls and video chats. This can help your parent feel loved and connected, even at a distance.

Arrange Transportation

If your parent has mobility issues, help them with transportation to social gatherings, doctors’ appointments, or other events.

Assist with Household Tasks

Offer to help with chores, grocery shopping, or home maintenance. This can make your parent’s life easier and free up their time for social activities.

Encourage Hobbies and Interests

Support your parent in pursuing hobbies and interests they enjoy. Whether it’s gardening, painting, reading, or any other activity, these can be fulfilling and provide a sense of purpose.

Prepare Meals or Dine Together

Cook or deliver homemade meals to your parent’s home. Sharing meals is a great way to bond and ensures they have proper nutrition.

Plan Gatherings with Friends and Family

Organize family gatherings and events that involve extended family members and friends. These gatherings can be a source of joy and connection for your aging parent.

Be Patient and Empathetic, and Provide Emotional Support

Understand that loneliness can be challenging, and your parent may need time to adjust to changes and new social connections. Be patient and supportive throughout the process. You should also listen to your parent’s feelings and concerns; being compassionate and understanding can make a significant difference.

Seek Professional Help

If your parent’s loneliness is accompanied by symptoms of depression or severe isolation, consider seeking professional help from a physician, therapist or counselor who specializes in geriatric issues.

Waterstone at Wellesley Can Help

Senior living communities like Waterstone at Wellesley play a vital role in combating loneliness among older adults by providing social and recreational opportunities, a supportive environment, maintenance-free living and access to various amenities and services.

Residents at Waterstone have a wide array of lifelong learning programs, social events, fitness classes and wellness opportunities that combine to create a sense of community. No matter your parent’s interests, Waterstone at Wellesley has everything needed for a carefree lifestyle full of great friends.

At Waterstone at Wellesley, this is also combined with dedicated assisted living support if or when it’s needed. Our personalized care continuum offers support, care consultations and daily planning, daily living programs, medication management, home health coordination with ancillary providers, as needed, and customized wellness plans.

Experience How We Combat Loneliness for Yourself

Keeping our residents engaged and social is important to us at Waterstone at Wellesley. If you’d like to learn more about our lifestyle for your loved one, give us a call to schedule a tour.

As we age, our needs change, and for many couples, the prospect of moving into assisted living becomes a reality. Assisted living communities like Waterstone at Wellesley offer a range of services and support to help seniors maintain their independence while receiving the care they need. However, one common question that arises is whether couples can live together in assisted living. In this blog post, we will explore the options and considerations for couples who wish to age together in assisted living.

Understanding Assisted Living

Before delving into whether couples can live together in assisted living, it’s essential to understand what assisted living entails. Assisted living facilities are residential communities designed for seniors who require some assistance with daily activities but still want to maintain their independence. These communities provide a comfortable living environment, social engagement opportunities, and various levels of care and support.

5 Factors to Consider When Choosing Assisted Living for Couples

1. Level of Care Needed

The first consideration when deciding whether a couple can live together in assisted living is the level of care required by each individual. Assisted living typically offers several levels of care, from minimal assistance with daily tasks to more extensive support. Couples should assess their specific needs and determine if the community can accommodate both of them adequately.

2. Apartment Options

Many assisted living communities offer different types of accommodations, including one-bedroom, two-bedroom, or even shared apartments. Couples should inquire about apartment options that allow them to live together comfortably. It’s essential to find a space that suits both partners’ needs and preferences.

3. Cost

The cost of assisted living can vary significantly depending on location, services, and the level of care required. Couples should carefully assess their budget and discuss the financial aspects of moving into assisted living.

4. Compatibility with Current and Future Needs

Couples should consider their current and potential future health conditions. For example, one partner may currently be fully independent, while the other may require limited support. Couples should choose a community that can adapt to changing needs. At Waterstone at Wellesley, couples may choose to have one partner in independent living while another lives in assisted living, or perhaps both move to assisted living, even with varying levels of support.

5. Social and Recreational Activities

Assisted living communities often offer a wide range of social and recreational activities to keep residents engaged and connected. Couples should inquire about the availability of activities that both partners can enjoy together. This helps maintain their emotional well-being and fosters a sense of community.

Living Options for Couples in Assisted Living

Shared Apartments

Many assisted living facilities offer the option for couples to share an apartment. These apartments typically include a living area, bedroom, kitchenette, and a bathroom. Couples can live together in a comfortable and private space while still having access to assistance when needed.

Individual Apartments in Close Proximity

In cases where shared apartments are not available, couples may opt for individual apartments located in close proximity to each other within the same community. This arrangement allows couples to maintain their independence while being near each other for companionship and support.

Flexible Care Plans

Assisted living communities often provide flexible care plans that can be customized to meet each resident’s specific needs. Couples can work with the wellness team to create a care plan that accommodates both partners’ requirements.

Benefits of Couples Living Together in Assisted Living

Emotional Support

One of the most significant advantages of couples living together in assisted living is the emotional support they provide to each other. Companionship and shared experiences can significantly enhance their well-being and quality of life.

Enhanced Quality of Life

Assisted living communities offer various amenities and activities that couples can enjoy together. From dining together in a communal setting to participating in group outings and hobbies, couples can maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle.

Reduced Loneliness and Isolation

Loneliness and social isolation can be significant challenges for seniors. Living together in assisted living can help combat these feelings by providing constant companionship and opportunities to connect with others in the community.

Improved Health Outcomes

Studies have shown that couples who live together in assisted living tend to have better mental and emotional health outcomes. The support and care they receive from each other can contribute to a higher quality of life.

Luxury Assisted Living for Couples at Waterstone at Wellesley

Waterstone at Wellesley in Wellesley, MA, offers a truly couple-friendly lifestyle that caters to the unique needs and desires of seniors looking to age together with grace and comfort. This exceptional assisted living community provides a warm and welcoming environment where couples can thrive.

With spacious and well-designed apartments, Waterstone at Wellesley ensures that couples can maintain their togetherness while receiving the individualized care they may require.

The community’s vibrant social calendar and a wide array of recreational activities offer opportunities for couples to bond, make new friends, and create lasting memories together. From fine dining experiences to wellness programs and scenic surroundings, Waterstone at Wellesley is dedicated to providing an enriching and couple-centric living experience that enhances their quality of life during their golden years.

If you or your spouse needs some additional assistance, the last thing you’d want is to be separated. At Waterstone at Wellesley, you’ll be there for each other every step of the way, along with our wonderful team of caregivers. Give us a call to schedule a personalized tour.

Fall in New England, what could be better?! If you’re looking for the top ways to celebrate the fall season in Wellesley, Massachusetts, we’re here to help! Check out some of our favorite annual Wellesley traditions below.

1 | View the Fall Foliage

If you’re an ardent leaf-peeper, there are plenty of places to find beautiful foliage around Wellesley. Consider adding a few of these locations to your stop:

• Take a stroll throughout the Wellesley College Campus, located on Central Street
• View the beauty in Wellesley Square
• Visit Fuller Brook Park
• Check out the Wellesley College Botanical Gardens and The Gardens at Elm Bank
• Tour the Eaton-Moulton Mill or Hunnewell Estates and see the beautiful surrounding landscape

2 | Pumpkin or Apple Picking

Easily an Autumn staple, the season doesn’t quite feel complete without some pumpkin patch or apple orchard fun. Bring the family, including the kids, for a fun, festive time. Bonus points if you carve the pumpkins and bake the pumpkin seeds or if you opt to make an apple-themed dessert!

3 | Holiday Festivities, Fall Festivals, and Cultural Events

Summer concerts and movies on the Town Hall Green are over, and so is the Wellesley Wonderful Weekend, which boasts Wellesley’s Veterans parade. Despite this, there’s so much more to enjoy as that familiar chill fills the air. Check out these Wellesley celebrations and events that are sure to delight.

• Enjoy a concert at Wellesley College
• Go to a book reading at Wellesley Books
• Take a workshop at Babson College
• Visit Wellesley Hills for the Halloween Stroll

4 | Seasonal Baking and Dining

At Waterstone at Wellesley, our team loves crafting delicious seasonal meals. If one of your passions is baking or cooking, try a new recipe, cook with friends, or have a movie night where each attendee crafts a special dish. There are plenty of ways to delight in the flavors of the season.

When you hear “stroke,” you probably imagine someone grabbing their chest and falling to the floor. But did you know that it’s possible to have a stroke and not even know it? It’s estimated that 1 in 3 American adults have experienced what is known as a “mini-stroke.” Sometimes the individual will experience slight symptoms; other times, the individual may experience no symptoms at all.

Mini strokes are very common among senior adults, but they often are misdiagnosed as another issue or disease. If you have an elderly loved one, it’s important to know the warning signs and symptoms of mini-strokes so they can take swift action if they occur.

What is a mini-stroke?

A mini-stroke is a colloquial term for a transient ischemic attack (TIA). These types of attacks are characterized by temporary stroke-like symptoms such as numbness in the face, arms, or legs; difficulty speaking or understanding speech; trouble with balance or coordination; double vision; and dizziness. They’re caused by a brief blockage of blood vessels in the brain, retina or spinal cord.

What Causes Mini Strokes?

There are several different factors that can contribute to a mini-stroke. The most common is when the blood supply to the brain cells is blocked due to blood clots or an underlying health issue. Mini strokes can also be caused by heart disease, vascular disease, or thickened blood disorders.

What’s the difference between a mini-stroke and a stroke?

Unlike an actual stroke, mini-strokes don’t damage brain cells or cause permanent disability. The symptoms also only last up to 24 hours. However, a mini-stroke is often an early warning sign that a person will have a full-on stroke, which is why it’s important to take immediate action. You also aren’t able to tell if your loved one is experiencing a mini-stroke or a stroke until after the event – another reason why immediate action is so important.

What is a “silent stroke”?

A silent stroke is a form of mini-stroke where an individual experiences a stroke without realizing it. This type of stroke is usually discovered via an MRI, usually as a treatment for another condition.

What are the risk factors of mini-strokes for seniors?
As with many other health conditions, seniors have a higher risk of having mini-strokes. Beyond age, however, there are several other manageable risk factors.

• Hypertension. Having high blood pressure is one of the biggest risk factors for both strokes and mini-strokes.
• High cholesterol. Having high cholesterol increases your risk of developing blood clots, which leads to mini-strokes.
• Obesity. Carrying too much weight on your frame increases your risk of diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, all factors that can increase your risk of strokes.
• Smoking. Smoking causes cardiovascular damage, which can lead to an increased risk of mini-strokes.
• Diabetes. Diabetes causes issues with blood flow and can increase your risk for a mini-stroke.
• An inactive lifestyle. Individuals who are inactive have a significant increase in the risk of many health problems, including mini-strokes.

How can “FAST” help determine whether or not someone is suffering from a mini-stroke or stroke?

The acronym FAST – Face, Arms, Speech, Time – can help you determine if your loved one is having an attack and requires medical attention.

• Face – ask the individual to smile. If one side of the smile droops, that’s a warning sign.
• Arms — ask the person to lift both arms. If an arm on one side of the body is hard to move or drifts downward, that’s also a warning sign.
• Speech — ask your loved one to repeat a simple phrase like “Today is Tuesday.” If they have difficulty understanding or if their speech is slurred or unusual, this is a warning sign.
• Time — If someone is exhibiting any of these warning signs, time is of the essence. It’s time to call 911 or take them to the ER to have them evaluated ASAP.

How can I decrease my or my loved one’s risk of having a mini-stroke?

Eat a healthy diet.

Getting proper nutrition is one of the best tools for controlling blood pressure, weight, and overall health. You probably have heard about the different types of foods that you can choose that will help reduce your risk of developing a stroke. No surprise, these foods can also help avoid mini-strokes. Here are some healthy choices to integrate into your diet.

• Fruits and vegetables
• Whole grain options
• Low-fat dairy products
• Nuts and legumes
• Poultry and fish
• Healthy fats

Stay physically active.

Physically inactive individuals have a much higher risk of having a stroke than those who exercise for at least 10 minutes a day. Exercising helps stimulate the cardiovascular system, keeps arteries and blood vessels healthy, and helps you stay at a healthy weight. It’s important to remember that staying physically active doesn’t mean running a marathon – even light housework can add up to increased health benefits.

Reduce stress levels.

Stress can raise your heart rate and blood pressure and releases cortisol into your bloodstream. This causes your body to go into fight-or-flight mode, which isn’t good for your health. People who experience chronic stress can also suffer from depression, mood swings, and physical ailments. Managing your stress through counseling, relaxation techniques, or meditation can significantly reduce your risk of strokes and mini-strokes.

A Healthy Lifestyle at Waterstone at Wellesley Will Do Your Heart Good. 

We’re devoted to a healthy lifestyle at Waterstone at Wellesley. Every aspect of our luxurious senior living community has been designed to help our residents live well, be well and stay well – mind, body, and soul. Beyond exceptional independent living options, we also offer assisted living for individuals who need a little extra help to live the lifestyle they deserve.

Call us today at 781.304.8169 to schedule a visit and see how the Wellesley lifestyle can benefit you or a loved one.