Category: Wellesley

Yearly, millions of seniors become the victim of a financial scam or scheme, causing the loss of money, trust, privacy or safety. In fact, chances are you know someone who has been affected by scams, have seen a family member’s social media page that has been hacked, or have received a spam call or message yourself.

No matter where you look, scammers and con artists seem to be out there lurking, waiting for the next person to target. Fortunately, being aware of common identity theft and elder fraud techniques can help you avoid them.

What Makes Seniors Targets for Identity Theft and Scams?

People of all ages can be scammed; however, seniors are often targets for fraud because of their trusting and polite nature. They may also be targeted because they typically own their home, have good credit, and have financial savings.

Identity Theft

Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information to pretend they are you in order to drain your accounts, open credit cards, or even get medical treatments. In fact, did you know that, according to the Consumer Sentinel Network’s 2021 Data Book, 1.4 million complaints of fraud were reported? This made up 25% of all complaints.

What are the common types of identity theft, how can you protect yourself, and what can you do if you think you’ve been targeted? We’re sharing the information you need to know below.

Common Identity Theft Techniques

According to the Federal Trade Commission’s Consumer Sentinel Network report, the top form of identity theft was Government Documents or Benefits Fraud. This was followed by Credit Card Fraud. Some other notable forms you may find include:

• Loan or Lease Fraud
• Phone or Utilities Fraud
• Bank Fraud
• Employment or Tax-Related Fraud

These, however, aren’t the only types of identity theft. Others may include email or social media, evading the law, insurance, medical services, online shopping or payment accounts, securities accounts, and more.

How To Protect Yourself from Identity Thieves

If you are concerned about identity theft, follow these tips.

• Never give out personal information
• Don’t give out credit card information over the phone
• Never carry your Social Security number or card on you
• Lock banking information away
• Shred important documents
• Enable two-factor authentication for logging into websites or apps
• Change any passwords that are part of a security breach
• If needed, freeze your credit files with credit bureaus
• Check your credit yearly
• Create complex passwords

What To Do if You Think You’re the Victim of Identity Theft

According to U.S. News & World Report, you can report identity theft to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), proving to businesses that someone stole your identity. You can also place fraud alerts on your credit report, request fraudulent information be removed, and file a police report, especially if you know who committed the crime.

Senior Scams

Sentinel shares there were over 984,000 imposter scam reports and that about 1 in 5 people lost money. Imposter scams were also shown to be the number one cause of fraud in 2021.

Being aware of scams can help you spot them – and stop scammers in their tracks – before you’ve been taken advantage of. Learn more about scams, protecting yourself, and reporting them below.

Common and Current Senior Scams

According to the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau, some of the most common types of scams include:

• Charity scams, often present during holidays and after natural disasters and emergencies
• Debt collection, debt relief or debt settlement scams
• Romance scams, which usually occur online in an attempt to access your money
• Sweepstakes or lottery scams
• Grandparent scams, where scammers pose as grandchildren in trouble to get money or gift cards from you
• And, of course, imposter scams, convincing you to send money by pretending to be someone you know and trust, like a government agency, police officer, employee of the state, etc.

Other types of scams, like tech support scams, Medicare scams, mortgage scams and more also exist, so be cautious anytime you feel even slightly unsure.

How To Protect Yourself

Protecting yourself from scams is a lot like protecting yourself from identity theft, but you can also take it one step further. Before acting on a potential scam:

• Raise a red flag about a sense of urgency
• Use the internet to research
• Get a second opinion
• Monitor your bank account or sign up for fraud alerts
• Evaluate websites you’re purchasing from
• Never send money to people you don’t know
• Do not complete wire transfer requests
• Remember that if it sounds too good to be true, it almost always is
• Put your phone number on the National Do Not Call Registry

Reporting Scams

What should you do if you find out you’re the target of a scam, or that you’ve been scammed? Just like with identity theft, there are a couple of things you should do right away, including submitting a complaint with the FTC, contacting the police, and reporting it to your state attorney general.

We’re here to help.

For more information on how to avoid identity theft and senior scams, or for ways you can keep yourself or a loved one safe, contact our team. For additional senior resources, visit our other blog posts today.

WATERSTONE AT WELLESLEY. NOW THIS IS HOME.

Waterstone at Wellesley offers independent living and assisted living options in Wellesley, on the Bank of the Charles River. Schedule a visit today to experience our lifestyle and learn how we help seniors thrive.

How old do you feel? If you answered higher than your current age, or even lower, there might just be a good reason for that – and it all has to do with mindset.

Whether you’re trying to hide your age, feel older than you are, or would simply like to freeze time, it’s important to shift your mindset from negativity to positivity. Why? Because a positive attitude has many proven benefits when it comes to aging.

The Perks of Positivity in the Aging Process

Research shows that a positive outlook and attitude about aging may help to reverse the aging process in older adults. A study published in the March 2022 Journals of Gerontology: Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences shares that among 233 older men, those who were more optimistic experienced better moods while improving how they viewed stressful situations.

This isn’t the only study that shows how a positive mindset can lead to greater well-being in life.

In research conducted by Ellen Langer, PhD, Harvard University psychology professor, a group of men, one who acted as though they lived in 1959 and those who simply reminisced about the year, noticed enhanced overall well-being, including in vision, old age, cancer, weight, heart health and happiness. Those who acted as though they were younger received even more benefits, showing that while growing older may be a part of life, anti-aging may be all about being young at heart and staying positive.

Ways To Put Positivity Into Motion

How can older people achieve healthy aging while seeing aging in a positive light? If you or a loved one is on a mission to reverse the aging process while adopting a healthy lifestyle, check out these ideas that can help.

Embrace Gratitude and Focus on Positive Emotions

When you focus on all the good things happening around you, you leave little room for the negative thoughts and experiences to cast a shadow. Check out some of the many ways you can embrace gratitude, improve your mental health and be more positive with these tips.

• Maintain a journal
• Make a list of three things you’re thankful for each day
• Meditate
• Collect happy memories in a jar to read at the end of the year, or longer
• Assess and reframe negative thoughts

Increase Physical Activity

Have you ever felt happier and more energized after exercising? This is because exercise releases endorphins, which can make you not only healthier but also happier. Strive to increase your physical activity by creating a fitness routine. If you want to bring a little more sunshine to your routine, exercise with friends or attend a group yoga or tai chi class.

Tip: If you’re struggling to start, focus on viewing exercise in a positive light, too. Instead of viewing it as something you have to do, reframe it as something you’re happy to have the ability to do.

Stay Social

Happiness is contagious, and being around friends can provide a significant boost to a person’s mood. Surround yourself with positive people who encourage you to be the best version of yourself!

Manage Stress

An overload of stress can be detrimental to your health and well-being. Find effective ways to manage this, whether it’s talking with friends, exercising, practicing self-care, getting involved throughout your community, or simply taking a break for something that brings you joy.

Live a Healthy Lifestyle

If you feel better, you’re likely to be more positive and could even live longer. This doesn’t just mean exercising; it also includes eating healthy, quitting bad habits like smoking or drinking excessively, scheduling routine doctor’s visits, managing health conditions like high blood pressure, and keeping your mind and body as healthy as possible.

Find Humor in Everyday Life

Laughter can be some of the best medicine. Whenever negative things happen or something doesn’t go according to plan, find a way to laugh about it or view it in a more positive light. This won’t just help you realize that what you’re going through might not be that bad, but it can help lighten some of the pressure while bringing joy.

Shift Negative Stereotypes

One of the best ways to reverse the aging process is to shift what you think aging looks like.

Today’s seniors are more active than ever and are looking for ways to enhance their senior living experience. At Waterstone at Wellesley, we’re kicking old stereotypes to the curb every day with an enriching and engaging lifestyle crafted around the retirement seniors are searching for.

Discover how we put everything in place for healthy, happy and positive aging. Schedule a visit to learn more about our lifestyle today.

WATERSTONE AT WELLESLEY. NOW THIS IS HOME.

Waterstone at Wellesley offers independent living and assisted living options in Wellesley along the bank of the Charles River. Schedule a visit today to experience our lifestyle and learn how we help seniors thrive.

Have you ever played the game of “telephone,” where one person starts out saying a phrase and then it gets passed down the line of people until it turns into a completely different phrase? This is often what happens with perception of senior living communities.

One person gives their opinion, whether true or untrue, and it gets passed down until myths form. This makes it important to figure out the facts for yourself, especially if you’re considering what senior living can offer you or a loved one. Fortunately, the team at Waterstone at Wellesley is here to help you tell fact from fiction.

Debunking Senior Living Myths

Myth | Senior living is too expensive and full of hidden fees.

Fact | Older adults living in senior retirement communities like Waterstone at Wellesley know that our convenient monthly rental apartments help them maintain control of their assets with no large financial commitment. They can enjoy everything our lifestyle offers for a simple monthly fee.

Myth | Residents lose their independence.

Fact | Many residents move to increase their independence while enhancing their lifestyle and quality of life. Without worries over maintenance, housekeeping and other chores, residents embrace a full life of their own design.

If you want to continue working, there are no restrictions. Simply work, enjoy life, and let us take care of everything here for you. If support is required to live independently, residents can receive it in their own private apartment while remaining active and engaged in community life.

Myth | There’s nothing to do.

Fact | Those who move to a senior living community often find themselves spending their time enjoying everything they never had time for before! From engaging in hobbies and uncovering passions to making friends and taking part in fitness classes, there is always something to do. Waterstone at Wellesley offers a full calendar of social, cultural, recreational, and educational programs designed to pique a diverse range of interests.

Myth | There is no privacy.

Fact | Senior living offers the best of both worlds. Spend as much, or as little, time alone as you please within the comfort and privacy of your luxurious apartment. When you want to socialize, opportunities await just outside your door.

Myth | The food isn’t good.

Fact | Our chefs create seasonal, gourmet meals freshly and creatively prepared every day. With anytime dining and impeccable ambiance, our dining experience is something our residents at Waterstone at Wellesley truly savor. If you want to cook for yourself or your guests, our beautiful independent living apartments offer full-size kitchens.

Myth | Senior living offers hospital-like spaces.

Fact | At Waterstone at Wellesley, our independent living and assisted living community offers spacious residences with all the comforts of home. Our community is stylish, sophisticated and closely resembles a resort hotel.

Myth | Pets are not allowed.

Fact | While some senior living communities don’t allow pets, Waterstone at Wellesley does! We know pets are an important part of your family, so we welcome them at our senior living community.

Dispel the Myths and Discover the Facts

To learn more about senior living and to debunk the myths for yourself, schedule a visit to Waterstone at Wellesley today.

WATERSTONE AT WELLESLEY. NOW THIS IS HOME.

Waterstone at Wellesley offers independent living and assisted living options in Wellesley, along the banks of the Charles River. Schedule a visit today to experience our lifestyle and learn how we help seniors thrive.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), millions of people 65 and older fall each year, leading to injuries, trauma and even death. Falls can be caused by age-related muscle loss, balance issues, drops in blood pressure, and other factors. Falling once doubles your chances of falling again, so it’s critical to prevent falls before they happen.

What can you do to decrease risk factors and stop falls from occurring? It may start with becoming as educated as possible while creating a fall-prevention exercise program.

Importance of Preventing Falls

While we know that preventing falls is important, you may not know just how important it can be for older adults. Did you know that:

• 1 out of 5 falls causes a serious injury such as broken bones or a head injury
• 300,000 older people are hospitalized for hip fractures yearly
• 37% of those who fall reported an injury that required medical treatment or restricted their activity for at least one day
• Women are more likely to fall than men

These numbers are staggering – and continuously rising. Fortunately, knowing what may cause falls, as well as how to decrease your risk factors for falls, can help you stay safe.

What Causes Falls

A number of factors can cause an increased likelihood of falls. Some of the most common include age-related loss of muscle mass, long-term conditions like diabetes or heart disease, the side effects of medication, poor vision, weakness, and dehydration.

Don’t forget about fall risks that may be present in your daily environment, too. Clutter throughout the home, steep or slippery stairways, unsafe shoes, wet or snowy weather, and various tripping hazards can quickly cause falls and the health problems associated with them.

Fortunately, it’s possible to keep yourself as fall-free as possible with prevention exercises, and we’re here to help you get started.

Step-by-Step Guide on Creating a Fall-Prevention Exercise Program

If you’re interested in beginning or creating a fall-prevention program, take these steps to do so as safely and effectively as possible.

Step 1 | Talk to Your Doctor

Before beginning your routine, start by talking to your doctor. Since you are their patient, falls are something that they will want to help you prevent. Not only will they have plenty of resources and evidence-based tips to give you, but they can ensure you are targeting areas you need to improve in while helping you be as safe as possible. Schedule an appointment to:

• Assess your overall fall risk
• Test your vision to determine whether further evaluation is needed
• Evaluate medications that may put you at risk of falls
• Share what exercises may be most effective
• Put you in contact with a physical therapist who may be able to share exercises with you

Step 2 | Get Started on the Right Foot

Once you’re ready to get started, establish what you can do to prepare yourself and your space for exercise.

• Declutter your home to prevent tripping hazards
• Put the right safety measures in place, like exercising with someone or putting an assistive device nearby to stabilize yourself
• Make sure you have the right exercise clothes and shoes
• Remember to ease into your routine
• Stretch and warm up first so you can exercise safely

Step 3 | Enhance Your Balance and Flexibility

Anything that challenges your balance can be beneficial in preventing falls. Check out some of these top balance exercises for seniors.

• Balance on one leg, switching from your left foot to your right foot
• Stand with your feet at hip width, then shifting weight from side to side, lifting your opposite foot off the floor
• Participate in a tai chi class or do simple yoga exercises to enhance balance
• Try heel-toe walking, standing with your feet directly in front of each other and walking in a straight line

Step 4 | Focus on Increasing Strength

When combined, strength and balance for seniors can be a powerful force in preventing falls. Aside from balance training, you should also focus on physical activity that enhances strength.

• Do sit-to-stand exercises
• Try resistance band workouts
• Do leg extensions from a seated position, making sure to repeat on the other side
• Start doing bicep curls with light hand weights
• Consider using hand weights while walking

Step 5 | Find Ways to Get Active Every Day

Staying active is easier than you may think. Here are some tips to get started:

• Strive to walk daily
• Try a new class
• Tailor your plans so you can get more exercise with friends

Keeping Residents Safe from Falls with Fitness Programs

At Waterstone at Wellesley, residents enjoy the peace of mind of knowing that right outside their door, they have the tools and guidance needed to help prevent falls.

With engaging programs such as tai chi and yoga as well as a range of wellness amenities, including our indoor pool and fitness center offering personal training and group classes, residents can engage in activities that help them reach their specific health and wellness goals.

To learn more, or to see how we keep residents healthy, active and engaged with social events, educational opportunities, and personalized exercise programs for seniors, schedule a visit today.

WATERSTONE AT WELLESLEY. NOW THIS IS HOME.

Waterstone at Wellesley offers independent living and assisted living options in Wellesley along the banks of the Charles River. Schedule a visit today to experience our lifestyle and learn how we help seniors thrive.

When you picture your retirement, where do you imagine yourself being located? Is it somewhere active with plenty to do nearby? Or is it somewhere you can relax and spend quality time with friends and family? For those who make the move to Waterstone at Wellesley, they find both.

Waterstone is conveniently situated just off Route 128, behind Wellesley Hills shopping, but also tucked away – putting you close to everything the town of Wellesley offers, while still providing privacy. Not only this, but we put you right in the heart of nature, adjacent to the Charles River and its walking paths, a footbridge and beautiful foliage.

With our prime location near dining, shopping, education and nature, there are always things to do in Wellesley, MA. Even better, there’s usually a friend close by to enjoy it with. Whether residents choose to remain on site or venture through the surrounding community, our residents love living here – and it’s easy to see why.

So what’s going on in Wellesley?

Foodies and adventure seekers to nature lovers and passionate learners will find plenty to do each day. Whether you’re preparing for a visit, doing some retirement planning, or are simply wanting to get a better view into what life at Waterstone at Wellesley could look like, check out some of our favorite places to go and things to do.

A helpful tip: Before setting off, check out the websites and social media pages of what you’re most interested in seeing and doing. This can help you plan effectively while ensuring they are open and able to be visited. It’s important to note that some may be closed for the season or have restrictions in place that may change periodically.

Upscale Dining Options

No matter your preferences, there is a dining option that will be perfect for you. Our culinary team delivers an exquisite culinary experience, but if you’re looking for an adventure in Wellesley, you can choose from one of the many delicious restaurants and cafés in our area such as:

• Bocado Tapas Wine Bar
• The Cottage Wellesley
• Fiorella’s
• The Local Kitchen & Drinks
• Alta Strada
• Papa Razzi Trattoria
• Smith & Wollensky
• Juniper
• Tatte Bakery & Café

Fine Retailers and Shops

Whether you’re looking for the perfect outfit, the right gift, or just a delicious accompaniment for a dinner you’re hosting, you’ll find it in Wellesley. From shopping centers featuring an array of boutiques to cheese shops and specialty stores, options abound no matter where you choose.

Check out some of the following shops and shopping centers our residents and families love to explore.

• Church Square
• Linden Square
• Wellesley Square
• Wasik’s Cheese Shop
• Lux Bond & Green Jewelers
• Sprig & Vine Oils and Vinegars

Educational Opportunities

Our residents enjoy lifelong learning, and our location makes it easier. Featuring educational institutions, museums, galleries and more, you can pursue whichever opportunities you desire. If you’re looking for even more, Boston is just a short trip away. Check out some of these resident favorites.

• Babson College
• Wellesley College
• The Davis Museum
• J. Todd Galleries

Outdoor Attractions

With the fall season upon us, it’s a great time to get outside before the colder seasons hit. Our location lends itself to some of the most beautiful areas, including gardens, bodies of water, and walking trails. Take some time to explore the parks and grounds of some of these gorgeous sites.

• Morses Pond
• Fuller Brook Park (the Brook Path)
• Wellesley College Greenhouses and Gardens
• Massachusetts Horticultural Society and The Garden at Elm Bank
• Charles River Walking Paths

Proximity to Health Centers

Our senior living community offers supportive care and assisted living services on site. However, residents enjoy the peace of mind of having quality healthcare centers nearby. In fact, we are just blocks away from Newton-Wellesley Hospital. We’re also close to Boston’s medical community and the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.

Access to Other Active Communities

If residents want to explore further, Natick and Boston are great places to start. With plenty of attractions in Natick and Boston, you’re sure to find many things to do. If you’d like some suggestions, we’d be happy to help.

Are you already planning and in need of some ideas for a trip to Boston? Check out our sister community Waterstone at the Circle’s blog!

Explore the Possibilities

At Waterstone at Wellesley, there is always so much to explore. Our residents would love to share their favorite places to visit with you! Schedule a tour to talk to our residents and discover what awaits at Waterstone at Wellesley.

WATERSTONE AT WELLESLEY. NOW THIS IS HOME.

Waterstone at Wellesley offers independent living and assisted living options in the heart of Wellesley, MA. Contact us for more information or to schedule a personal visit today.

In recent years, senior living has shifted its focus from simply providing an engaging lifestyle with available healthcare services to offering an experience that truly enhances seniors’ physical, emotional, and mental health. This change comes about as seniors are living longer and prioritizing their overall well-being, knowing that they’d like to pursue active, adventurous lifestyles for as long as possible.

While wellness has always been an aspect of a senior living lifestyle, it was rarely as major a focus as it is today. In fact, according to an article by Senior Housing News, out of 267 senior living professionals surveyed, roughly 60% said their senior living communities will be based on a lifestyle of wellness by 2023. According to the International Council on Active Aging survey in the article, some of the programs we can expect include:

• Continuing education and lifelong learning
• Exercise led by instructors and technology
• Health education and disease management
• Food and nutrition education and preparation
• Intergenerational programs

Waterstone at Wellesley is proud to be ahead of the curve – offering a dynamic range of programs and events, impressive amenities, high-touch services and social opportunities that support all dimensions of health and wellness in daily life.

Wellness at Waterstone Senior Living

When it comes to senior health, it’s important for communities to stay on top of the trends and best practices, providing exactly what seniors are looking for while involving every aspect of their lives. At Waterstone at Wellesley, we do just that through a range of avenues.

Programming and Lifelong Learning

The pursuit of lifelong learning shouldn’t stop because of aging. In fact, this is a time many seniors embrace new possibilities. The ability to engage in dynamic programs and events can improve many different facets of health and wellness for seniors.

At Waterstone, residents enjoy:

• Educational series, historical lectures and film reviews
• Outings and cultural opportunities
• Painting, gardening, writing, and creative art classes

Social Opportunities

Waterstone at Wellesley provides a range of events to keep residents socially engaged, which can decrease feelings of depression and loneliness. The camaraderie of friends and neighbors is a major component of life at Waterstone at Wellesley. Here, residents enjoy:

• Cocktail hour with friends
• Special interest clubs and social groups
• Courtyard concerts and events
• Gatherings with friends and family in the private dining room

Fitness and Wellness

Many senior living residents refuse to buy into the idea that lessened physical health is just an inevitable part of aging. In fact, they combat this by increasing their physical activity and making their health a priority. We make it easy with:

• Exercise classes like group yoga and tai chi
• A fully equipped fitness center with personal trainers
• Customized fitness plans
• Outdoor fitness opportunities, including walking paths along the Charles River

Wellness at Waterstone doesn’t just consist of programs that enhance physical health. Many classes are designed to help clear the mind and improve emotional and mental health, leading to enhanced mood, increased self-esteem and other positive emotions.

Gourmet Dining

Health ties into nutrition, and at many senior living facilities, food is a key focus. Waterstone at Wellesley’s executive chef and culinary team creates gourmet meals to fuel the body, mind, and spirit, featuring:

• Seasonal menus
• Fresh, locally sourced ingredients
• Anytime dining to suit residents’ needs

Not only does the culinary experience at Waterstone offer enhanced nutrition, but dining with friends in a restaurant-style setting also provides beneficial socialization opportunities.

Dedicated Support

In addition to the programs and amenities designed to promote wellness in daily life, Waterstone at Wellesley also provides senior care with assisted living on site. Our close proximity to area hospitals and medical teams means residents and family members can rest assured knowing support will always be available if needed.

Experience Wellness at Waterstone for Yourself

If you or a loved one is searching for a senior living community that will enhance long-term wellness, Waterstone at Wellesley may be the answer you need.

Visit our website to learn more about our lifestyle, or schedule a tour to get an inside look at what our residents enjoy.

WATERSTONE AT WELLESLEY. NOW THIS IS HOME.

Waterstone at Wellesley offers independent living and assisted living options in Wellesley along the banks of the Charles River. Schedule a visit today to experience our lifestyle and learn how we help seniors thrive.

As seniors age, many consider moving to a senior living community like Waterstone at Wellesley. What’s more is that many of these seniors happen to be single. Why are so many of these single seniors choosing senior living communities? Join us as we take a deep dive into the decision-making process and how a move to senior living provides them with abundant opportunities to thrive!

Today’s Senior Living Experience

There was once a time when many Baby Boomers believed retirement communities were like nursing homes; and now, those days are long gone! Instead, many single older adults have tossed those old views away and are making informed decisions about their futures based on what senior living is like now – and what it will be in the future.

With all the perks, amenities and lifestyle of senior living communities like Waterstone at Wellesley, it’s certainly easy to see why!

How Senior Living Helps Single Seniors Thrive

Many single seniors look forward to a move for the same reasons that those who aren’t single do. From the lifestyle and amenities to gourmet dining and maintenance-free living, there is often so much to look forward to. However, there are definitely some ways that single seniors benefit even more from senior living.

Senior living provides social connections.

We’re going to kick off this list of benefits with one of the most important: social opportunities. Within senior living communities, older adults are able to meet new people, find new hobbies, bond with others over shared interests, and enjoy a range of programs to keep them engaged.

At Waterstone at Wellesley, we offer a variety of programs, special interest clubs, group fitness classes, and more to meet varying interests, enhance involvement, and prevent isolation.

They can say goodbye to the hassles of homeownership.

In senior living communities like Waterstone at Wellesley, home maintenance, housekeeping and yardwork are taken care of for residents.

This ensures that if they don’t know how to fix something, they won’t need to learn or pay an outside company to come fix it for them! If they have always had trouble keeping up with the lawn, watering plants or trimming up the hedges, they won’t need to worry about it. If they have always had someone come to their home to tidy up, they won’t need to worry about doing it themselves after a move either.

Instead, they give their to-do list to us so they can enjoy their lifestyle with peace of mind.

Meals are prepared for them.

Cooking for one can be fun and may lead to some creative recipes, but often, it can lead to making quick meals – and an increase in unhealthy dietary choices. At communities like Waterstone at Wellesley, chef-prepared meals are provided.

Instead of single older adults being the sole person doing meal prep, cooking and cleanup, we take the hassle out of it. Residents can simply be our guests while dining with friends or family and savoring everything we offer.

Care services are available if or when it’s needed.

When single seniors remain at home, they may not have support if health challenges arise. The search for care at home can be challenging and difficult to acquire. Ultimately, a health crisis is often what drives a move for some seniors, especially when they are single.

By making a move before care is required, however, single seniors can get to know the team, make new friends, and enjoy the programs and events that communities have to offer. Then, when they need care, it will be available to them from a community they trust. Best of all, they’ll continue enjoying the current lifestyle they love.

Providing Opportunities for Single Older Adults To Thrive

Are you interested in learning more about the benefits of retirement communities and independent living for single seniors? The team at Waterstone at Wellesley would love to chat with you. Schedule a visit to learn more about our lifestyle and experience how we keep all seniors engaged and active.

WATERSTONE AT WELLESLEY. NOW THIS IS HOME.

Waterstone at Wellesley offers independent living and assisted living options in the heart of Wellesley, MA. Contact us for more information or to schedule a personal visit today.

When the weather warms up, many people feel inspired to be more active – and that also includes motivation to do more around the home. It’s the perfect opportunity to declutter, organize and prepare for a move to a senior living community.

Are you looking for an excuse to get started or simply don’t know where to start? We’re here to help by sharing the benefits, the reasons, and the right tips to get you started.

Benefits of Decluttering and Downsizing

When many seniors hear the term “downsizing,” they often think of getting rid of many of their belongings in preparation for a move to a smaller home. While this can sometimes be true, downsizing the home doesn’t always mean moving to a smaller space!

As is the case for many seniors, sometimes it simply means upsizing their lifestyle by eliminating the hassles and worries that come along with homeownership and moving to a premier senior living community like Waterstone at Wellesley. Residents enjoy the benefits of less maintenance and upkeep in their apartment, but with the added perk of having a community full of luxury amenities and enriching services right outside their front door. In reality, residents are actually increasing their overall living space!

No matter the reason, it’s the right season to begin the decluttering and downsizing process. Here are some of the benefits:

• Gives inspiration to pack up seasonal clothes and get out warm-weather attire
• Refreshes the home for a new season
• Frees up storage spaces
• Allows you to pass on unneeded items to family or friends
• Provides the opportunity to throw a summer yard sale
• Helps you and your family feel more prepared for the future

Helpful Tips for Seniors and Their Families

If you’re looking for organizing and downsizing tips, you’re in the right place. Pack up your worries and unpack the best place to begin with our expert advice.

Prepare Ahead of Time

The best way to start your cleaning, decluttering and organizing journey is to put one foot in front of the other. It really is that simple. Make a list of spaces that need cleaning, plan to go room by room, and stick to your plan. This ensures you won’t get overwhelmed or make an even bigger mess.

Want to be even more prepared? Make a list of cleaning goals. If you know you want to clean all the windows or dust, write it down. If a room needs more intensive cleaning, gather a list of local cleaners.

One surefire way to make sure you stay on task? Buy and have on hand all the cleaning products you need so you don’t have to stop mid-job to go shopping for supplies.

Involve Family Members

When deep cleaning and downsizing, the more help, the better! Whether you’re downsizing for yourself or for your loved one, be sure to ask for the help you need. Consider:

• Asking older grandkids to assist with moving heavy items
• Designating a friend to take items to a donation box
• Having someone do yardwork or landscaping to amp up real estate value for a move to a senior living community
• Placing one person in charge of cleaning windows, another in charge of boxing items, and so on

Check on Home Safety Items

While you’re in the midst of the process, it’s a great time to check on home safety measures. Are your or a loved one’s fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors working properly? If not, make sure to install fresh batteries. Confirm that fire extinguishers are on hand and tripping hazards have been removed. Remember to replace air and water filters and check to make sure air conditioners work – something that can decrease the risk of heat illnesses as the seasons continue to change.

Don’t Forget Often-Missed Spaces

It’s no secret that rooms like the kitchen, bedrooms, storage areas and living rooms are often the first focus, but don’t forget about spaces like the medicine cabinet, underneath the sink, or the office and filing cabinets.

Making Cleaning and Decluttering Easier – One Move at a Time

We know the downsizing process can be an overwhelming task for even the most organized older adults and family members. The good news? Once you’re done, you can breathe easy – especially with a move to Waterstone at Wellesley where we take care of all maintenance, housekeeping and more. Instead, you can focus on enjoying a summer of joy, freedom and fun!

Waterstone at Wellesley. Now This Is Home.

Waterstone at Wellesley offers independent living and assisted living options in beautiful Wellesley, along the banks of the Charles River. Schedule a visit today to experience our lifestyle and learn how we help seniors thrive.