Tag: Senior Living

You deserve to feel safe when you pick up the phone, open an email, or go online. Yet scams targeting older adults are rising every year — and many are aggressive, personal, and very convincing. 

In 2024, people 60 and older reported more than 147,000 complaints and almost $4.9 billion in losses to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center. This was a 43% increase in financial losses from 2023. The average loss for victims over 60 exceeded $80,000.  

Many people never report what happened, often because they feel ashamed or blame themselves. But know this: scammers succeed because they are skilled criminals, not because you are careless. 

At Waterstone, we want you to feel informed, but not afraid. That is why we spoke with Detective Ian McEnaney of the Westford, Massachusetts Police Department. He and his colleagues speak at local senior centers and share alerts on social media to help older adults stay aware and prepared. 

In this guide, we will answer common questions about scams that target seniors. You will learn: 

• How some common scams work 
• The red flags to watch for 
• What to do if something feels wrong

With the right information, you can lower your risk and protect yourself.  

If you’d rather listen to a conversation than read, we sat down with Detective McEnaney on a recent episode of our EPOCH Exchange podcast. See the episode below:

Why do scammers target older adults? 

Scammers target people of all ages, but some criminals may focus on older adults. 

Scammers see older adults as good targets because: 

• You may have retirement savings or home equity that they want to reach.  
• You often grew up in a culture that rewards politeness and trust, even with strangers.  
• You may feel lonely or isolated, especially after a move or major life change. The isolation equates to vulnerability.  
• You might feel less confident with new technology, which makes you more susceptible to online tricks. 
• You may value your independence, meaning you don’t want to “bother” family or the police when you encounter something suspicious. 
• You may be embarrassed to report losses, making you ‘low-risk’ for criminals. 

Scammers use these factors on purpose. As Detective McEnaney explains: 

“They build a story, apply pressure, and keep you from checking with someone you trust. They also use new tools, such as caller ID spoofing, fake websites, and even AI voice cloning, to make the story feel real. As accessible technology becomes more sophisticated, scams get harder to spot.” 

But you still hold real power. Awareness, quick questions, and a strong support network greatly lower your risk. Resources like the FBI Elder Fraud page and the FTC’s Protecting Older Consumers report show that informed older adults stop scams every day.  

What are the most common scams targeting people over 60?

The same scam types keep showing up, even if the finer details change. Most scams that target older adults fall into a few main groups: 

• ‘Grandparent’ or family emergency scams 
• Romance and trust scams 
• Tech support and computer pop-up scams 
• Government and business impersonation scams 
• Toll and traffic text scams 
• Investment and “high return” scams, often using cryptocurrency 

Let’s give a brief overview of each:  

What is a grandparent scam?

A so-called grandparent scam manipulates through fear and urgency around a loved one. 

Someone calls or messages you and claims your grandchild or another relative is in trouble. They may say there was something like a car crash or an arrest. They often pretend to be a lawyer, a police officer, or even the grandchild affected. 

They then tell you to send money right away and often tell you to keep it secret. 

Common red flags: 

• The caller pressures you to act before you hang up or think 
• You feel panic and confusion, and do not get clear details 
• The caller wants payment by gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency 
• The caller will try to prevent you from calling your family to confirm the story 

What is a romance or “trust” scam?

A romance scam starts with friendship and trust, often online.  

Scammers usually contact you on dating sites, social media, games, or messaging apps. They create a warm, caring relationship and move conversations off the original site (and away from the rules and surveillance of that original site). After trust grows, they introduce a crisis or “great investment.” 

They then ask for money, gift cards, or help moving funds. 

Watch for these signs: 

• The person avoids video calls or in-person meetings 
• The relationship feels rushed and overly intense 
• The person often talks about money, investments, or emergency needs 
• The person asks you to send money or share banking details 

You can read more examples on the FTC’s Romance Scams page.  

What is a tech support scam?

A tech support scam pretends to fix a problem that does not exist.  

You may see a pop-up on your computer that says “Your device is infected” and lists a phone number. Or you may get a call from someone who claims to work for a big company like Microsoft. 

They often: 

• Ask you to give them remote access to your computer 
• Request your passwords or banking information 
• Charge large “service fees” for fake repairs 

Real companies do not call out of the blue about a virus on your device. The FTC explains these tricks in its guidance on tech support scams. 

What is a government impersonation scam?

A government impersonation scam uses fear of fines, arrest, or benefit loss, playing on the authority of a government source to intimidate.  

Scammers pretend to be from agencies such as: 

• Social Security 
• Medicare 
• IRS 
• The FTC or FBI 
• Local police or courts 

They often claim: 

• You owe money or face arrest 
• Your benefits will stop 
• Your identity was stolen, and they need “verification” 

They then pressure you to pay quickly or share personal information, such as your Social Security Number. 

Real agencies do not demand payment by gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency. The FTC’s guide on government impersonation scams gives more examples and tips.

What is a toll or traffic text scam? 

Toll and traffic text scams try to trick you with a fake fine. 

You might get a text that says you owe unpaid tolls or road fees, with a link to “pay now.”  

In Massachusetts, officials have warned about fake EZDriveMA and E-ZPass messages that try to steal payment details.  

Key warning signs: 

• You do not use that toll service or have recently changed states 
• The link looks odd or does not match the real agency website 
• The message threatens large penalties if you do not click right away 

MassDOT explains how these texts work and how to stay safe in its EZDriveMA scam alert. 

What is an investment or “high return” scam? 

Investment scams promise large, quick returns with little risk. Many now use cryptocurrency, foreign exchange, or “exclusive” trading platforms aimed at retirees. 

Common signals: 

• “Guaranteed” returns or secret strategies 
• Pressure to keep the opportunity private 
• Requests to move retirement savings or home equity quickly 
• Confusing online dashboards that show fake “profits” 

You can check offers against the resources in the FTC’s Top scams of 2024 alert and with state regulators before you invest.  

What red flags should you watch for in any scam?  

Detective McEnaney reminds us that, while scams look different and tactics change, the same warning signs appear again and again. You can spot these patterns and step away before you lose money. 

Big picture red flags 

• Someone creates panic or excitement to try to make you act fast 
• You feel you must decide during that call or message 
• The person tells you not to speak with family, the bank, or the police 
• The story feels complicated, vague, or keeps changing 

Payment red flags 

Scammers push payment methods that are hard to trace or reverse.  

Treat the situation as high risk if someone: 

• Asks you to buy gift cards and read the numbers 
• Tells you to wire money to a person you do not know 
• Demands payment in cryptocurrency 
• Sends a QR code or link for “instant” payment 
• Wants you to send money through a payment app to a stranger 

If someone pressures you to use any of the above methods, consider it an immediate sign of a scam. 

Detective McEnaney can’t stress enough: “Legitimate businesses and government agencies do not demand payment this way.” 

The FTC explains this clearly in its Scams and Cryptocurrency scams advice.  

Communication red flags 

Scammers try to sound official or familiar. 

Watch for: 

• Calls or texts from unknown numbers that demand money 
• Caller ID that looks local or matches a business, but the call feels wrong 
• Email addresses that almost match a real address but not quite 
• Messages that ask for passwords, security codes, or full Social Security numbers 

Phishing emails and texts often copy real logos and styles. The FTC’s guide on phishing scams shows clear examples.  

Tech and device red flags 

Tech support scams often start with fake warnings.  

Be very careful if: 

• A pop-up suddenly claims your computer has a serious virus 
• The message gives a phone number and tells you to call right away 
• Someone calls and says they are from Microsoft, Apple, or your bank’s “security team” 
• The person asks for remote access to your computer 
• The person wants your passwords or banking logins 

Real companies do not reach out this way. The FTC reminds you never to give remote access to someone who contacts you first in its tech support scam advice.  

Emotional red flags 

Scammers study human behavior. They use feelings as tools to try to manipulate you into action. 

Pause when you notice: 

• A strong rush of fear, shame, or excitement 
• A sense that you must help “right now” or someone will suffer 
• Pressure to keep secrets from your spouse, children, or others 
• Worry that you will “get in trouble” if you ask questions 

Detective McEnaney once more asks people to trust their instincts: “You can trust that inner alarm and your gut instinct. If something feels off, it probably is.” 

How should you respond in the moment if something feels off?  

You can try to remember to follow three simple steps: 

1. Pause 

It is highly unlikely you’ll ever have to act immediately in the moment of a phone call, email, or text message. So, always remember you have time to pause: 

• Take a breath and slow everything down 
• Remind yourself that real organizations give you time 
• Tell the caller you need to think, then end the call 

Detective McEnaney’s advice supports this: “Let unknown numbers go to voicemail. You can always listen later and decide how to respond to any given situation.” 

2. Verify

You choose who to contact and how. 

Use these checks (depending on the circumstances of the scam) 

• Do not use phone numbers or links the caller provides 
• Look up the official number (on your bank card, agency website, company website, etc.) 
• Call the family member who supposedly has the emergency 
• Talk with a trusted person – a family member or friend. A second pair of ears can reassure you and spot flaws 

If a message claims to be from a government agency or the FTC, remember the FTC’s clear rule. It will not threaten you or tell you to move money to “protect it.”  

3. Report and Block

You help protect yourself and others when you report suspicious activity. 

In the moment, you can: 

• Hang up and block the number on your phone 
• Mark emails or texts as junk or spam 
• Take screenshots of texts, emails, or pop-ups 
• Write down what happened, including times and phone numbers 

If you have already sent money or given information, move quickly: 

• Call your bank or card company and report fraud 
• Change passwords for email, banking, and key accounts 
• Turn on two-factor authentication for important accounts 

Then file a report with: 

• Your local police department 
• The FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov 
• The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov 

The FTC describes what to do in detail in its guide, What to Do if You Were Scammed.  

Did you know: What is two-factor authentication?  

Two-factor authentication adds an extra step to your login. You enter your password, then confirm a code sent to your phone in an app or a text message. Two-factor authentication makes it much harder for scammers to break in, even if they know your password. 

Many banks, email services, and social media sites now offer two-factor authentication. You can usually turn it on in the “Security” or “Login” settings. You’ll just need to follow the instructions to set it up. 

Detective McEnaney: “You do not need to feel embarrassed. Scammers use very advanced tricks. Quick action and honest reporting help you limit harm. We in local law enforcement will always want to know the details so we can help identify the patterns of the latest scam techniques.” 

How can you protect yourself online and on social media? 

You protect yourself online by limiting what you share and checking links. Also, make use of any security tools available.  

Online scams often start with small pieces of information. Scammers collect details from social media, public records, and data breaches. They then build a convincing story around you or your family.  

You can lower your risk with a few habits: 

Limit what you share

Treat your personal information as valuable. 

• Keep your full birth date, home address, and phone number off public profiles 
• Avoid sharing details about travel plans, daily routines, or when you will be away from home 
• Do not post photos of new IDs, credit cards, or tickets 
• Review your “About” and profile sections at least twice a year 

The FTC’s guide to Online Privacy and Security explains how your data can spread and how to control it. 

Tighten social media settings

Most sites let you limit who sees your content. 

• Set your profiles to “friends only” or similar private settings 
• Review friend or follower lists and remove people you do not recognize 
• Decline friend requests from strangers 
• Turn off location sharing on posts and photos 

Massachusetts officials warn that many social media scams begin with fake profiles that build trust, then send links or requests for money. 

Check links and online stores 

Scammers often use fake websites and online shops. 

Before you click or buy: 

• Hover over links to see the real web address 
• Check that the site uses “https” and has a clear business name 
• Search the company name plus words like “scam” or “reviews” 
• Be careful with offers that seem much cheaper than everywhere else 

The Massachusetts Attorney General’s office shares tips on avoiding fake online offers and related scams on its Avoiding Scams and Frauds page. 

Strengthen your accounts and devices

Strong security tools give you extra layers of protection. 

• Use a unique password for each important account 
• Turn on two-factor authentication where possible 
• Update your devices regularly (don’t ignore those update requests!) 
• Install reputable antivirus or security software and let it run updates 
• Log out of accounts on shared or public computers 

You can find step-by-step instructions in the FTC’s Online Security resources. 

 Stay alert to social media scams

Many online scams now use social media as the starting point. 

Common tricks include: 

• Fake online stores that never ship items 
• Romance scams that move quickly to private messages 
• “Celebrity” or “charity” accounts that ask for money 
• Fake giveaways or grants that ask for fees or personal details 

The AARP’s guide on social media scams explains how these schemes hook older adults with convincing posts and ads.  

Many of us have built great antennae to detect when something just feels off. If you get that vibe, trust yourself. Do not reply. Block the account and report it on the platform. 

What can family members do to protect a loved one from scams?  

You can protect a loved one by talking often and keeping money decisions simple. 

Start with regular, calm conversations. Bring up scams when you see a news story or get a strange text yourself. Say that you want to hear about odd calls or messages, even if they seem small.  

Promise that you will not judge or blame; you are on the same team. 

Agree on a few clear rules. For example, you and your loved one can decide that they will: 

• Call you before sending a large payment 
• Never buy gift cards for someone who contacts them out of the blue 
• Pause and check with you if a caller says there is an emergency 

Watch for quiet warning signs. A new online friend who appears suddenly. Growing anxiety about phone calls. Secretive behavior around bank statements or emails. If you notice these shifts, stay calm. Ask open questions, then suggest you look at messages and accounts together. 

What should you do if you have been scammed?

You should act quickly, but you do not need to panic. You still have options. 

1. Contact your bank or card company right away

Explain what happened. Ask them to block or reverse any suspicious payments. If you used a payment app, gift card, or crypto platform, contact that company too. 

2. Secure your accounts and identity

Change passwords, especially for email and banking. Turn on two-factor authentication. If you shared sensitive details, place a fraud alert or credit freeze with the credit bureaus through IdentityTheft.gov. 

3. Report the scam

Reporting helps you and protects others. Save all emails, texts, receipts, and screenshots — they may help banks or law enforcement recover funds. File reports with: 

• Your local police department 
• The FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov 
• The FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov 

4. Tell someone you trust

Talk with a family member, caregiver, or Waterstone team member. You can also call the AARP Fraud Watch Network Helpline (1-877-908-3360) for support and guidance.

Another reminder from Detective McEnaney: “You did not cause the scam. Scammers target smart, careful people every day. Speaking up and acting fast helps you limit the damage and keep others safer. We will always want to know the details because knowledge is power for us, too.” 

Where can you find trusted scam alerts and more information? 

You can bookmark a few trusted sites and phone numbers. Use this table as a quick guide.

Need	Who to contact	How they help
Report any scam or fraud	Federal Trade Commission (FTC) – ReportFraud.ftc.gov	File a report, get next steps, and see current scam warnings
Learn about common scams and how to avoid them	FTC Scam and Fraud Advice – consumer.ftc.gov/scams	Read simple guides on tech support, romance, government impersonation, and payment scams
Report online or internet-based crime	FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) – ic3.gov	Report internet scams, including email, websites, social media, and online investment fraud
Understand trends affecting older adults	FBI Elder Fraud Program – Elder Fraud page on fbi.gov	See current data, common schemes, and prevention tips for people 60+
Get help if your identity may be stolen	IdentityTheft.gov – identitytheft.gov	Create a recovery plan, place alerts, and learn how to protect your identity
Get ongoing education and one-on-one support	AARP Fraud Watch Network – aarp.org/money/scams-fraud and Helpline 1-877-908-3360	Read scam alerts, watch videos, and speak with trained fraud specialists
Stay aware of local scams	Your local police department	Learn about scams in your area and ask how to report suspicious activity

Key Takeaways on Scams  

Scams and scammers thrive when people don’t speak up, when people are too scared or embarrassed to take action.  

If something feels wrong, speak up, ask for help, and report it. You, your family, your Waterstone community, and local police are on the same side. 

Now that you’ve finished this guide, take one small step to stay safer. Turn on a security feature, talk with family, or browse these resources for further details. These simple actions today, alongside greater awareness, make you less vulnerable. Staying informed is the strongest protection. You don’t need to memorize everything — even one or two habits can dramatically lower your risk.

An illness, injury, or surgery can change your life in an instant. The path to feeling strong again often begins with rehabilitation. It’s a process that helps you improve mobility and rebuild confidence so you can return to doing what you love.

What Is Waterstone’s Role in Rehab? 

At Waterstone of Westchester, we want to facilitate your recovery as best we can. We do that through our supportive environment and programming. We also do it through the relationships we build with local organizations, such as Burke Rehabilitation® and FOX Rehabilitation.

Through these relationships, our residents have convenient access to therapy and recovery support both within our community and in specialized care settings nearby.

If you ever need help getting back on your feet, you can find reassurance knowing that trusted care is always within reach.

Why Is Rehabilitation So Important?

As we age, our bodies take a little longer to bounce back after an illness or injury.

You might experience weakness after a hospital stay, stiffness after a joint replacement, or a loss of balance after a fall. You may need help regaining function after a stroke or a neurological condition.

Rehabilitation helps you recover safely and regain independence.

But rehabilitation isn’t only about regaining what was lost. It’s also about protecting what you still have. The right therapy plan helps prevent future setbacks and promotes long-term mobility and confidence.

At Waterstone of Westchester, our wellness team can help connect residents with the level of care that suits their recovery needs and personal goals. You can receive therapy in a hospital setting, at an outpatient facility, or right here at home. 

What Does Rehabilitation Typically Look Like? 

Every rehabilitation journey is unique, but the goal is always the same: helping you get back to your best.

For some, recovery begins in a specialized inpatient setting with extensive, daily therapy. Others may benefit from outpatient programs that provide regular therapy visits several times a week.

If your recovery continues at home, therapy may take place right where you live, allowing you to practice exercises and techniques in your own environment. You might work on balance while navigating your living room or focus on gentle stretches to improve flexibility.

A key aspect of modern rehabilitation is that it should be personalized and tailored to your needs and goals. Motivation is key, and a diligent care team will devote as much attention to encouragement as to physical therapy.

What Does Burke Rehabilitation Provide for Waterstone of Westchester Residents? 

If you ever experience an illness or surgery that requires specialized therapy, our relationship with White Plains-based Burke Rehabilitation gives you access to one of the country’s most respected rehabilitation providers.

Nationally recognized by U.S. News & World Report and Newsweek as a top rehabilitation hopsital, Burke specializes in both inpatient and outpatient care. Burke is known for providing advanced therapies with compassionate, individualized attention. Patients receive several hours of care daily from a team of physicians, nurses, and therapists.

Burke also supports families through its Marsal Caregiver Center, the first and only caregiver center within an acute rehabilitation hospital in the U.S., which serves as an essential resource for families. The center ensures that patients’ loved ones feel supported, heard, and cared for as their loved ones receive Burke’s award-winning care.

“Our goal is to guide patients toward independence, whether that happens here, at home, or in a community like Waterstone,” said Burke Rehabilitation Executive Director, Scott Edelman, MBA, CPA, CFE.

When your inpatient stay ends, Burke’s outpatient rehabilitation therapy program can help you maintain your progress and continue your recovery journey. Our Waterstone team can help coordinate referrals and transportation to one of Burke’s 15 outpatient therapy sites, so you can focus on your recovery with confidence. 

Burke offers a comprehensive range of therapeutic programs and specialty services, including physical and occupational therapy, speech, language, and swallowing therapy, cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, and concussion management. 

What Does FOX Rehabilitation Provide for Waterstone of Westchester Residents?

FOX Rehabilitation can provide personalized care right at Waterstone of Westchester. Licensed therapists visit you in your apartment or meet you in our fitness center, creating a convenient and familiar environment for therapy.

You might work on walking comfortably to dinner without help or practicing safe movements in your kitchen. You may want to build strength to keep up with your grandchildren. FOX therapists will listen to your preferences and create a tailored plan.

FOX’s clinicians can offer physical, occupational, and speech therapy services and focus on encouragement, education, and practical strategies for daily life.

“Treating a resident in their home environment allows us to provide guidance tailored to their specific needs. This encourages successful carryover of exercises for long-term wellness,” said Jennifer Spears, Regional Director, FOX Rehabilitation

Therapists often become trusted companions in recovery, offering not only expertise but also motivation and genuine support. Some of our residents even attended their therapist’s recent wedding, reflecting the close bonds that can develop from this arrangement.

What If You Don’t Need Rehabilitation Yet? 

Even if you do not currently require therapy, there’s so much you can do to stay strong and prevent future setbacks. At Waterstone, we focus on proactive wellness through education.

You can attend workshops hosted by Burke or FOX professionals on topics such as fall prevention, arthritis management, and staying mobile as you age.

“We visit three or four times a year,” says Scott Edelman of Burke. “Our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Oh-Park, has led sessions on fall prevention and maintaining mobility as we age.”

These educational opportunities help residents stay informed while building trust if rehabilitation is ever needed later.

Beyond Rehabilitation: Thriving at Waterstone

At Waterstone of Westchester, recovery is just the beginning. Once you’ve regained your footing, our lifestyle helps you continue growing stronger.

Every day is an opportunity to live well. You can start your morning with an instructor-led stretch session, join friends for a chef-prepared breakfast, and take part in an afternoon lecture or art class.

You might head out on a cultural outing or meet neighbors for a lively game night. When you build your days from these moments, you’re not just entertaining yourself – you are taking care of yourself, too.

We know personalization and variety are key. What supports one person’s strength or curiosity might look different for another, and that’s why we take great care to provide activity calendars with events for everybody’s tastes.

That belief mirrors the approach of our rehabilitation relationships.

Person-Centered Care Becomes Person-Centered Living

Burke participates in the Age-Friendly Health Systems Initiative, which emphasizes one key question: What matters most to you? Their philosophy ensures that they tailor care to each person’s goals and priorities.

That same idea guides life at Waterstone. From dining and wellness to learning and recreation, your experience here is shaped around what’s most meaningful to you.

FOX Rehabilitation shares a similar focus on personalization, framed through its philosophy of “exchanges of abundance.” Their therapists give time, attention, and encouragement beyond what’s expected.

You can see this philosophy come to life at Waterstone through:

• A variety of balanced meals prepared by our chefs to support focus and energy
• Personalized fitness programs led by expert trainers
• Educational classes and workshops that stimulate lifelong learning
• Social gatherings and cultural excursions that help build connections
• Green spaces and walking paths that invite movement and reflection
• Volunteer opportunities that encourage purpose and community involvement

Each of these experiences contributes to a healthy lifestyle, especially if you are going through a rehabilitation journey. At Waterstone, person-centered care becomes person-centered living. You decide what wellness looks like, and we make sure you have the resources and encouragement to achieve it.

Our Commitment to Residents, Wherever They Live

At Waterstone, we’re proud of the trusted relationships we’ve built with exceptional local providers. These relationships reflect our ongoing promise to ensure residents have access to quality care and meaningful support whenever it’s needed.

Wherever our communities are located, in Boston, Lexington, Wellesley, or Stamford, we take care to develop similar relationships with local providers who share our values. That’s how we bring the best in wellness, rehabilitation, and personal care directly to those who call Waterstone home.

Schedule a visit to Waterstone of Westchester to discover our approach to wellness and how we look to provide a varied lifestyle to support every resident.

By Devon Sicard, Regional Director of Operations, Waterstone 

Are you one of those people who look forward to fall, with its promises of leaf-peeping, crisper days, and pumpkin-spiced lattes, with hints of the holidays on the horizon? Or, instead, do you dread the colder, darker days that herald the coming winter? 

I want to share my perspective on why this season can be challenging, but also explore how we can embrace it with intention for a better experience, especially in a senior living context.

I recently met up with two of my colleagues to discuss this issue. Erica Labb and Sarah Turcotte host our podcast, the EPOCH Exchange, where they cover various topics around senior living. If you’d rather listen than read, check it out below:

Otherwise, read on!

The Challenge of Fall 

Fall certainly presents both challenges and opportunities for everyone. 

But, in all seriousness, seasonal changes do affect older adults, even those with a positive mindset who look forward to Thanksgiving turkey and apple picking.  

The problem comes as days grow shorter and temperatures dip. We tend to do less exercise, get less sunshine, and generally take a little less care of our well-being. 

The simple shift of the sun setting a little earlier, particularly around the end of daylight savings time, can throw our whole rhythm off. It’s easy to lose track of the time of day, to feel more tired, or even a little low in spirits. I see it with residents, and honestly, I feel it myself. 

That’s why routine becomes so important. Even though the seasons change, our day doesn’t have to. Waking up at the same time, eating meals on schedule, and keeping our activities consistent can help us feel steady and secure, no matter what’s happening outside.  

The Importance of Light and Vitamin D

One of the biggest shifts we all notice in the fall is the lack of sunlight. Less sunlight means less vitamin D, which is so important for bone health, mood, and immunity. Without it, fatigue and low mood creep in more easily. 

That’s why I always encourage people, even if it’s chilly and uninviting, to bundle up and get outside, even just for five minutes. The fresh air and natural light are powerful. At our Waterstone communities, we’re fortunate to have beautiful outdoor spaces where residents can walk, sit, and soak up the autumn sun (if it’s out!). 

When the weather really isn’t cooperating, we focus on bright, welcoming indoor spaces. It may sound simple, but keeping indoor spaces bright and closing blinds once it gets dark can help keep the day flowing. 

Staying Connected 

Something I feel deeply about is the importance of social connection. The truth is, seasonal change can bring feelings of isolation, especially if you’re staying indoors more. But connection is one of the best antidotes to those feelings, whether it’s sharing a meal, joining a program, or just spending time with a neighbor. 

As I hinted at earlier, some people love fall and all it brings. Others really feel the negative impact of the seasonal transition. The best way to lift the spirits of those who are feeling low is to get together and socialize. If you love fall activities, share your enthusiasm with someone! Encourage them to head out for apple cider donuts and a brisk walk with you.

At Waterstone, we build social opportunities into every day. Our activity calendars are full: from fitness classes and creative workshops to lectures, live entertainment, and excursions outside the community. Residents are engaged, learning, and laughing together, which means it’s so much more than just ‘passing time’. These meaningful activities, structured and spent with others, can be powerful medicine to fend off any seasonal blues.  

Take a look at an example of an activity calendar for Waterstone at Wellesley. Every day, you’ll see opportunities to be social, get moving, or learn something. With these enticing choices, our residents tend to find something that sparks their interest. And, of course, we’re always accommodating to new ideas and resident requests. If someone wants to start a chess club, we’ll help them arrange a space and add it to the calendar.

Movement Matters 

Don’t let the season be an excuse to stay on the couch. Movement is key. Research shows that physical activity doesn’t just keep us strong; it can even slow the progression of diseases and boost brain health. 

At Waterstone, we make it easy with a variety of fitness programs. Residents can do yoga, strength training, or balance classes indoors. And when the weather allows, a walk outside, even a short one, can be refreshing and affords us that all-important dose of Vitamin D.  

Staying physically active helps us feel more energized and, just like spending time with friends, will help those prone to melancholy feel a little more resilient against the negative effects of colder, darker weather.  

Finding Comfort in Traditions 

One of the bright spots of fall is its traditions. The season itself reminds us of rituals, particularly in New England. I’m thinking about apple picking, leaf peeping, spooky season, Thanksgiving meals, and cozy gatherings. I find that those rituals help ground us in time. They give us something to look forward to and a way to celebrate the moment we’re in, often together with friends and family.  

Here at Waterstone, we lean into the season. Our chefs create menus that showcase the best fall ingredients: hearty soups, roasted vegetables, and warm desserts. We host themed events, seasonal celebrations, and creative activities that connect residents to the traditions they’ve always loved. 

You can see examples of this across our communities, from a fall wine tasting at Waterstone on High Ridge to a cross-community, autumn-themed Battle of the Chefs. These activities go beyond the usual calendar activities to tie in the sentiments of the season.

We notice in our communities that these touches really matter and make a difference to residents. Consider similarly leaning into the season at home to give yourself a boost.   

Supporting Those at Home 

While my focus is on the residents in our communities, I never forget the families at home who are navigating these same seasonal shifts. You might be caring for elderly seniors at home, you might be a caregiver, or you may be a senior yourself, dealing with the change. 

Whoever you are, changes in routine, like daylight savings or shorter days, can throw you for a loop and make things harder.  

My advice is simple: 

• Keep the environment well-lit. 

• Stick to a routine. 

• Find opportunities for connection and movement. 

• Lean into traditions to bring comfort and familiarity. 

Those small adjustments can make the season feel less overwhelming and more manageable. 

These things mirror what we create at Waterstone. When I look at what makes our communities special during the fall (and really, all year), it’s how we design everything to support wellness in body, mind, and spirit. 

• Routine gives us stability. 

• Light and time outdoors boost mood and health. 

• Socialization combats isolation and depression. 

• Movement keeps us strong and energized. 

• Tradition brings joy and connection. 

It all works together. When residents come here, they’re not just adjusting to a new season of the year. Instead, they’re embracing a lifestyle that makes every season a fun experience.  

Final Thoughts 

There’s no getting away from it: Fall in New England will always bring shorter days and cooler weather. But that doesn’t mean it has to bring decline or low spirits. With intention, this colder season can be full of warmth. 

At Waterstone, that’s what we strive for. We make sure residents don’t just “get through” the season, they thrive in it.  

If you want to find out more about embracing fall as part of the Waterstone lifestyle, contact us to speak to a member of our team or arrange a tour of your local community.  

We all know that keeping the brain healthy takes effort. Sleep well, eat well, move your body, spend time outside, talk to others, and challenge your mind. These are the basics.  

You might be familiar with the “use it or lose it” idea. Think of the brain like a muscle that needs regular exercise and a steady routine of mental workouts to stay strong and resilient.  

Before we introduce a new technology that helps provide these workouts while offering easy-to-digest cognitive insights, let’s pause to revisit some proven brain health basics. 

Brain Health Basics – What Helps and Why  

Caring for your brain does not require a complete lifestyle overhaul. Often it means making small, consistent choices that are both manageable and enjoyable. Research shows these habits make a real difference, and the best results come when they become part of your routine. 

Movement

Regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or even dancing, improves blood flow to the brain and supports memory and learning. Exercise also helps with sleep and mood, which in turn strengthens focus and recall. Harvard Health summarizes these effects and notes the benefits for memory and executive function.  

Sleep

Short sleep and poor sleep quality are linked to higher dementia risk. Studies of older adults show that regularly sleeping fewer than five to six hours roughly doubles the risk of dementia over time. Prioritizing 7–9 hours gives your brain time to process and store memories. 

Food

Eating patterns like the MIND diet emphasize leafy greens, berries, whole grains, beans, nuts, olive oil, and fish to support brain health. Diets rich in these types of ingredients have been linked to slower cognitive decline. Even small positive changes can help. Try adding more vegetables to your meals or replacing butter with olive oil. Cutting down on processed foods is a good idea, too. 

Social Connection

Time with friends, family, or groups can be powerful for the brain. Social interaction strengthens thinking skills, reduces stress, and often lifts mood. The National Institute on Aging points to the benefits of socialization for thinking and memory.  

Mental Challenge

Trying something new, whether it is a puzzle, a recipe, or a class, can help preserve cognitive function. This ‘testing’ of your brain helps it form new neural connections even as we age, and more of these neural connections basically builds up some resiliency against cognitive decline. What matters most is curiosity and the willingness to keep learning. Harvard clinicians highlight the protective role of ongoing cognitive engagement.  

Time Outside

Exposure to natural light helps regulate your body’s internal clock, which supports healthy sleep. A short walk or gardening in the sun provides the combined benefits of fresh air, light, and movement. 

Make Small Changes for Better Brain Health   

We are all probably somewhat aware that all these activities have a positive effect on our brain health.  One of the encouraging truths about brain health is that these small choices create a positive cycle. When you start with one step, you often unlock benefits that make the next step easier.  

Over time, these habits reinforce one another.  

For example, when you make time for daily movement, you often fall asleep more easily at night. Better sleep lowers stress and helps your brain process and store memories. When you’re well rested, you are more likely to make good choices around food, such as preparing a healthy meal instead of reaching for convenience snacks. Nutritious foods, in turn, help stabilize your mood and energy, making it easier to stay active and engaged the next day.  

 You can find these positive cycles running through every smart brain-healthy choice. The important part is starting with one change that feels realistic to you. Each step, no matter how small, is an investment in your brain health that will make the next step easier. 

What’s been missing is an accessible way to check in on how the brain is really functioning. With the heart, we have blood pressure cuffs. With our overall health, we have cholesterol and blood sugar numbers. But the brain has been harder to measure in a simple, everyday way.  

What is our current state of healthcare when it comes to the brain? Maybe you raise an issue with your primary care provider. You get put on a long waitlist to see a specialist. They carry out imperfect, detailed assessments comprised of written exams and ‘follow-my-finger’ tests. Throughout all this, you may succumb to the ‘white coat’ effect, where the stress of being assessed in a clinical setting skews your performance.  

Ultimately, this is an unsatisfactory, inaccessible, cumbersome process. We need a better way.  

That is where REACT Neuro comes in. 

What Is REACT Neuro?     

REACT Neuro is a virtual reality headset that users can put on for a short, engaging session. Activities range from quizzes and reaction games to calming VR environments designed for meditation. While you use it, the headset tracks various activities: eye movements, response times, and hand coordination via the remote, among others. This information is then turned into data that helps reveal how the brain is working in areas like memory, focus, and speed. 

It is like a quick check-up for your mind — a “blood pressure cuff for the brain.” 

We recently sat down with the CEO of REACT Neuro, Dr. Shawn Patel, as part of our EPOCH Exchange podcast series. We discussed this new technology and its implications for brain health. Check it out below:

How REACT Neuro Works   

Sessions take about fifteen minutes. A brain health coach may guide users through the first assessment, though it can also be used independently. Together, participants can set goals, much like working with a personal trainer. After that, the headset is used for regular practice and reassessments, building both insight and resilience. 

 The experience feels a little like the popular brain-training games, but with more precise, science-based feedback. feedback meetings and daily interactions with leadership. There is a real sense that this is a thriving, evolving community in which everybody plays a part, from life enrichment team members to dining staff to the residents themselves. 

What It Can and Cannot Do 

REACT Neuro can: 

• Provide valuable information about how the brain is functioning. 

• Track changes over time and strengthen cognitive skills. 

• Encourage users to build resilience and take a proactive role in their brain health. 

It cannot: 

• Diagnose dementia or other conditions. 

• Provide a cure for memory loss. 

• Replace the role of a physician. 

If results ever point to something concerning, users would be encouraged to follow up with their doctor. 

Why Are We Bringing REACT to Waterstone?

At Waterstone, we are always looking for meaningful ways to support wellness. REACT Neuro fits perfectly into that vision. It gives residents a new tool to keep their minds active and engaged, and it does so in a way that is fun, simple, and modern. Participation is entirely optional, but for those who choose it, this program provides another pathway toward healthy aging. 

What a REACT Neuro Session Looks Like at Waterstone 

1. Sign up. Residents can choose to participate. A team member helps schedule a convenient time. Participation is optional. 

2. Welcome and baseline. A team member introduces the VR headset and explains what it measures. We start with a simple baseline check that takes about 10–15 minutes. 

3. Guided use. A brain health coach can guide the first session. The headset tracks eye movements, response times, and hand coordination while you complete brief, game-like tasks. These are meant to be fun games rather than feeling like mental assessments.  

4. Results review. You see easy-to-understand readouts for areas like working memory, attention, and processing speed. We save this as your baseline for future comparisons. 

5. Set goals. You choose focus areas that matter to you, such as reaction time or short-term recall. Together, we pick a simple plan for you to follow. 

6. Practice sessions. Short sessions fit your routine. You can practice independently or with a coach. The goal is steady, low-stress repetition.  

7. Track progress. We compare new results to your baseline so you can see changes over time. You can adjust goals if you want to try different exercises. 

8. Follow-up support. If a result raises concern, we recommend speaking with your physician. REACT Neuro does not diagnose conditions and does not replace medical care.  

9. Keep it enjoyable. Many residents treat sessions like a quick mental workout. The experience feels familiar if you have tried brain-training games, with the added benefit of objective measurements. 

The Future of Brain Health 

The team behind REACT Neuro believes that one day, checking the brain will be as common as checking your blood pressure.  

The CO-CEO of REACT Neuro, Dr. Shaun Patel, envisions a future where these VR handsets could be a regular fixture in people’s homes, improving and democratizing access to brain health insights. His vision is one of regular testing: he reminds us that this tool enables fun, fast, frequent, accessible insights into our cognitive performance – something we can do in 15 minutes from our couch at home.  

For sure, the technology is opening up new possibilities to bring cognitive insights into daily life. At Waterstone, we are proud to be among the senior living communities leading the way in this exciting new field. 

Brain health is something worth protecting at every stage of life. With REACT Neuro, our residents now have a new way to do just that. Most importantly, it empowers us all to be more proactive in caring for our most vital organ. 

Brain Health as Part of Wellness at Waterstone 

At Waterstone, we believe wellness is about so much more than staying physically active or eating well. It’s about nurturing every dimension of health, including the mind. By introducing REACT Neuro, we are giving residents another way to stay proactive, engaged, and confident about their future. 

This tool is not meant to stand alone, but to complement the vibrant lifestyle that already defines our communities: chef-prepared dining with healthy options, enriching cultural and social programs, opportunities to connect with others, and personalized support when it is needed. 

“At Waterstone, we are always looking for meaningful ways to help our residents thrive,” said Michael Toce, Vice President of Wellness at EPOCH Senior Living. “We’re excited to introduce REACT Neuro as a program for our residents, giving them an innovative and empowering way to support their brain health. This is just the beginning as we look forward to bringing this technology to additional communities in the future.” 

Protecting brain health preserves independence for longer as you age. With innovations like REACT Neuro, Waterstone continues to lead in delivering thoughtful, forward-looking resources that help residents thrive each day. 

Contact us today to learn more about luxury senior living at Waterstone and our commitment to supporting wellness at every stage of life.