fbpx

Innovative food and dining trends in senior living are on the rise, with today’s senior living dining experience taking on a whole new dimension. This is especially true at Waterstone at the Circle, located at the foot of Chestnut Hill in Boston.

Discover what residents of our active senior living community savor with our exquisite dining experience.

What You Can Expect from Waterstone at the Circle’s Premier Dining Experience

Gourmet, Chef-prepared Meals

Our culinary team creates exceptional cuisine, delivered with impeccable presentation and top-notch service. Our dining is regionally inspired and truly personalized to our residents’ tastes and preferences. Even better, it’s available every day – right outside your apartment door.

Locally Sourced, Seasonal Ingredients

Waterstone at the Circle maximizes the use of locally sourced ingredients to provide the freshest culinary creations possible. Through the use of locally grown fruits and vegetables when possible, our dining selections feature delicious and nutritious choices that please the palate.

Menus change seasonally to provide a range of dining options featuring refreshing energy and flair.

Impeccable Service

Our dining venues offer an ambiance to meet your lifestyle. From restaurant-style dining you can enjoy with fellow residents and friends to celebrations with family in our private dining room to outdoor seating when the weather is right, Waterstone at the Circle has it all.

If you happen to be looking for a quick bite to eat in the morning, our bistro is the perfect place to meet, read the paper, and feel an even greater sense of community.

Anytime Dining

Because our residents live such an independent lifestyle, they need to be able to dine on their time, their way. Whether this means in-between classes and club meetings, before a morning workout in the fitness center, or after one of our many late afternoon and evening events, we’re here to meet their needs and fit their schedule.

Dining Tailored to Preferences and Needs

Chefs get to know residents over time and learn to cater to their tastes. Whether you’re searching for your favorites, have a specific craving, or prefer something a little more health-conscious, we’re here to accommodate you. Our chefs are also happy to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Discover a Dining Experience That Exceeds Residents’ Expectations.

While residents choose Waterstone at the Circle for any number of reasons, our ability to keep on top of the senior living dining trends is one of the top reasons they choose our community.

“I have been to some of the best restaurants in Massachusetts, and I just can’t think of any changes I would make to the menu at Waterstone. Whether you’re a meat eater or a vegan – they’ve got it. And they’ve got it just right.” – Morris, Waterstone Resident

To learn more about our premier dining experience, schedule a visit. Or, to get an inside look for yourself and see everything our community has to offer, visit our gallery. Here, you’ll see an example of our mouthwatering dining options, get a peek into our lifestyle and access our virtual tour.

EXPERIENCE WATERSTONE AT THE CIRCLE FOR YOURSELF.

Schedule a visit today to discover Waterstone at the Circle’s dining program to get a taste for yourself. While you’re here, you’ll learn more about our independent living community designed for seniors 62 and over.

Categories
The Circle

Tips for a Healthier You

A new year has begun, and if you’re like many others, you’ve written out – or thought up – a specific set of goals for your fresh start. If one of your goals is to be healthier, read on for tips to achieve your resolution – or to take it to the next level.

What To Focus On for Optimal Senior Health and Wellness

A healthier you doesn’t just mean you should focus on fitness, though it does help. There are a range of aspects of wellness you should keep in mind for healthy aging. These include social, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, and physical health.

What can you do to foster each of these dimensions for a healthier you? The possibilities are truly endless, so choose options to best fit your needs and goals this new year.

How Older Adults Can Achieve Optimal Health and Wellness

Enhance Social Health

Social interaction has an impact on your overall health. In fact, it reduces the risk of health issues, like depression, while enhancing a sense of belonging and decreasing feelings of isolation.

  • Join a club or group
  • Attend social events
  • Limit time on social media, instead opting for personal connection
  • Enjoy opportunities for intergenerational connections, including mentoring students or volunteering at your church
  • Consider moving to senior living where you will find new friends with similar interests

Increase Intellectual Health

Lifelong learning enhances quality of life while bringing health benefits to those who seek out the possibilities they provide. Put some additional focus on intellectual health with these ideas.

  • Attend classes and lectures
  • Explore local museums
  • Try out a new hobby
  • Pursue your passions
  • Take advantage of local cultural opportunities
  • Travel when you’re able, even if it’s a short day trip or weekend getaway

Bonus: Experiences like these can also help to protect against Alzheimer’s disease.

Put More Focus on Emotional Health

Mental health is an important aspect of overall health and wellness because it directly impacts the mind and the body. Discover how you can improve your emotional health with these tips.

  • Focus on positivity and gratitude
  • Aim for better sleep, around seven to nine hours nightly
  • Find ways to relieve stress, including exercise or meditation
  • Journal or list out things you are thankful for

Foster Spiritual Health

With so much focus placed on emotional and physical health, it’s not uncommon to forget about spiritual health. No matter what this means for you, fostering your spiritual health has a range of benefits.

  • Find a sense of purpose in everyday life
  • Reflect or meditate
  • Connect with your faith
  • Give back to others

Power Up Your Physical Health

A healthier lifestyle is never a bad thing to seek. This year, increase your physical activity, cut back on bad habits, eat healthy, and more.

  • Remain a healthy weight, losing weight or maintaining if needed, while exercising regularly
  • Cut back on processed foods, which also helps with weight loss
  • Drink water and cut back on sugary sodas
  • Try exercise classes, remembering to enhance balance, flexibility and stability
  • Explore tai chi or yoga, which combine multiple dimensions of wellness
  • Stop smoking and drink alcohol only in moderation

Discover Wellness at Waterstone at the Circle

We make it simple for residents to meet their New Year’s resolutions while staying healthy.

With a full calendar of social events, groups and clubs, access to lifelong learning possibilities and spiritual opportunities, and plentiful wellness and fitness programs, residents have everything they need to live healthy. Even better, this includes supportive healthcare services available within the comfort of residents’ private apartments.

To experience how you can have your healthiest year yet, or to learn about our independent living community for seniors 62 and over, schedule a tour.

Categories
The Circle

Settling In After a Move to Senior Living

Moving to a senior living community is a time of joy for many older adults, but it can also come with some anxiety. From questions like, “How will I fill my days?” and “How will I make friends?” to “What if I don’t feel at home?” and “How long will it take me to feel comfortable?”, a move can be fraught with ‘what-ifs’ and ‘hows’.

The good news is that settling in after a move is often easier than you imagine. This is especially true at Waterstone at the Circle. Check out our top tips that help new residents at The Circle adjust quickly and take advantage of all our active lifestyle has to offer right away.

Getting into the Groove of Senior Living | Tips To Help You Settle In

1 | Make your space feel like home.

Moving to a new space is an opportunity to showcase who you are. Make your new home a reflection of you by highlighting your interests, showing who is important to you with photographs and keepsakes, and decorating with items that bring you joy. The more it feels like home, the sooner you’ll feel settled in.

2 | Introduce yourself to new neighbors.

Make it a point to say hello and introduce yourself to those around you. This can open up opportunities to get involved, make new friends, and learn more about the community. At Waterstone at the Circle, you’ll quickly find our community is filled with a sense of community and camaraderie.

3 | Invite friends and family members over.

Share your new home with your friends and family by hosting a housewarming party or maybe even a weekly movie night. This can help you make new memories with those you love in your beautiful new home.

4| Create a routine and goals.

While many seniors look forward to retirement and having endless free time to do as they please, some may worry that a lack of structure will make them feel bored or even overwhelmed. Instead, create your own schedule and routine and stick to it.

If your goal is to get fit, pencil in time for physical activity with one of our personal trainers. If you want to get involved with the local community, ask our life enrichment team about opportunities to volunteer or give back. If you still want to work, you can do that, too! Here, the choices are all yours.

5 | Try out new activities, attend programs you’re interested in, or join a club.

Activities for seniors in independent living communities like Waterstone at the Circle are endless. From book clubs, art classes, and fitness groups to social hours, cooking demonstrations, and game nights, you’re likely to find there’s more to enjoy than can be done on any given day.

Don’t let yourself get so caught up in your routine that you stop pursuing new activities, passions and hobbies. Engage in lifelong learning, attend lectures, take advantage of new volunteer opportunities, and try out a new skill. Not only will you enhance your brain power and skill set, but you’re also likely to make new friends and connect with others with similar interests. Ask our life enrichment team to introduce you to activities and programs you might enjoy.

6 | Explore the community and your surrounding area.

Waterstone at the Circle is ideally located at the foot of Chestnut Hill in Boston, putting you near a variety of things to do. From cultural events and museums to shopping and delicious dining, there’s plenty to explore once you arrive at our community. Our concierge would be more than happy to assist you with purchasing tickets or arranging transportation to area attractions and events.

7 | Get to know team members.

At Waterstone at the Circle, we work hard to ensure the premier senior living experience you expect! Our dedicated team members are ready to lend a hand if or when it’s needed. Whatever your need, we are at your service and ready to assist!

8 | Give yourself time to adjust.

It might take some time to get used to your new retirement community. Some residents feel at home right away, while it takes others some time to adjust, and that’s normal. Lean on team members, get involved in the community as you feel comfortable, stay in touch with family and friends, and simply enjoy your new, carefree life.

Making the Transition Easy at Waterstone

At Waterstone at the Circle, we’re here to help you settle in from the moment you walk in the door. Our expert team gets to know your preferences, likes and dislikes, and we share our social calendars, highlighting opportunities to get involved.

Even our residents welcome you with open arms, with invitations to join them for dinner, activities and more. Everything you need to make the transition easy is right here for you.

EXPERIENCE WATERSTONE AT THE CIRCLE FOR YOURSELF

Schedule a visit today to learn more about our premier independent living community designed to enrich life for seniors 62 and over. Waterstone at the Circle offers beautiful rental apartments as well as access to supportive care services on site.

What each person may be looking for in a senior living lifestyle is different, but one thing is certain – the right services and amenities are a must. When considering where you’d like to spend your future, make sure you’re effectively evaluating a community’s offerings to ensure you choose the right one for you.

Sizing Up Services and Amenities in Senior Living

Make a list of what you’re looking for.

Active retirement living isn’t one-size-fits-all; that’s why it’s important to list out everything you’re searching for in an active adult community. Doing so will help you decide where you should be touring and what independent living amenities you can’t do without.

Enriching Services and Amenities

Senior living communities typically include a range of services, amenities, and perks for older adults. These can include wellness programs, chef-prepared meals, transportation, maintenance, and housekeeping to provide a worry-free lifestyle. Often, as is the case at Waterstone at the Circle, these services are included in your monthly fee for simplicity and peace of mind. Waterstone at the Circle offers an exquisite culinary experience, concierge services, transportation services, fitness programs led by professional instructors and more.

Programs, Events and Entertainment

Not only do these perks fill your days with fun and enjoyment, but they also boost your spirits and keep you engaged and active. If you’re searching for a community rich in adventure and new possibilities, consider looking for a retirement community that offers field trips, outdoor activities, clubs, special interest groups, and social events. The dedicated life enrichment team at Waterstone at the Circle ensures our residents’ days are full and fulfilling.

Access to Support for the Future

Many communities also include access to a range of care services to support active adults, as needs may change over time. It’s important to consider services you may need before you need them – so you’re able to choose the living option that has a plan in place for the future.

Older adults who choose Waterstone at the Circle benefit from the ability to enjoy an active, independent lifestyle with wellness programs that enhance physical and cognitive health, as well as access to supportive care services provided by premier healthcare partners.

Location

If you know you’re among those who love to explore your surroundings, you’ll want to choose a community that puts you in the heart of it all. Choose a community that’s walkable, offers transportation, and makes it easy to enjoy the shopping, dining, and educational pursuits you want to continue enjoying. At Waterstone at the Circle, our location at the foot of Chestnut Hill puts you close to everything you love, with quick access to Boston and beyond.

What’s Next?

As you research what communities to visit, make a list of communities that offer these things and begin scheduling visits. Then, as you tour, follow these tips.

Make notes of your first impressions.

Write out what you liked, what you didn’t like, and what they had or didn’t have. Are any of the missing items deal-breakers? Cross them off your list and continue your search.

Immerse yourself in the community.

Ask to try the programs, see if you can spend some extra time there, stay for a meal, and explore the surrounding area.

Talk with residents, families and team members.

One of the best ways to get a feel for the community of interest is to talk with those who know it best. Consider asking:

  • How happy families and residents are with the services and amenities offered
  • What amenities and services residents thought they’d use that they don’t
  • How easy it is for the team to implement new programs if requested by residents
  • What residents love most about the community
  • How helpful or attentive the team members are

Evaluate what you’re willing to let go of on your list.

Most communities aren’t going to offer absolutely everything you’re looking for. Of those you’ve toured:

  • Which best meets your needs and wishes?
  • Are there any additional services and amenities that balance the missing ones out?
  • Does the community make you feel welcomed and at home?

Once you’ve asked yourself these questions, you’re likely to have narrowed down your best option.

Uncover the Lifestyle You’ve Been Looking For at The Circle.

When it comes to services and amenities, Waterstone at the Circle provides some of the best. What can you expect?

  • Independent living and supportive care, providing support with activities of daily living
  • Bright, stylish apartments in a range of sizes
  • Anytime dining at our restaurant
  • Weekly housekeeping services
  • Life enrichment programs featuring lecture series, outings and trips
  • Convenient access to the MBTA Green Line and Greater Boston’s best shops, restaurants, and recreational and entertainment venues
  • Indoor heated pool and fitness center staffed with professional fitness and aquatic instructors

EXPERIENCE ALL WATERSTONE AT THE CIRCLE HAS TO OFFER

How do we measure up against communities you’ve toured? The best way to find out is by visiting, talking with residents, and exploring our lifestyle for yourself. 

Schedule a tour today to learn more about our premier independent living community for seniors 62 and over.

Categories
The Circle

Living in a Community vs. Staying at Home

Group of seniors sitting outdoors, talking and laughing

There comes a time in many seniors’ lives when they consider whether or not they’d like to make a move to senior living or stay at home. If you’re finding yourself in this position currently, you aren’t alone.

Although this decision is a very personal one, with some seniors preferring one option over another for any number of reasons, some of the most common explanations we hear are that:

  • They fear a loss of independence
  • The process of moving appears complicated
  • They don’t feel as though they currently need support
  • All their best memories happened at home
  • Their own preference is to remain there until they need extensive medical care or home healthcare needs to be brought in

While all these reasons are understandable, it’s important to consider how this decision can affect your life as you age. In fact, when most older people and family members consider the advantages that senior living communities offer, they change their minds. Then begins their journey of moving to a senior community.

5 Reasons Senior Living Is Better Than Remaining at Home

If you’re on the fence about moving to a senior living or retirement community, consider some of the benefits many older adults enjoy there that you simply won’t get at home.

Social Opportunities

Senior living communities are full of programs, social events, clubs, classes, new friends and camaraderie. Even better, you never have to leave your home to take advantage of it all.

At home, seniors may become more isolated as it may be more difficult to see friends, drive during bad weather, and more. In fact, nearly one quarter of those 65 and older are said to be socially isolated, according to a study by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.

Those problems are a thing of the past here at Waterstone at the Circle, with on-site programs, scheduled transportation, and endless opportunities to connect outside our community – thanks to our prime location in Boston.

Responsibilities

Who takes care of your daily responsibilities at home? Is it you who completes these tasks? Or do you hire someone to take care of housework, home maintenance and yard work for you?

If you take care of these things yourself, you may be wasting time you could be spending on doing what you want to do. Even if you outsource these tasks, you still need to search for a service, write out their checks, and ensure their quality of work is up to your standard.

At a community like Waterstone at the Circle, we take care of all these things for you so you can simply enjoy a carefree lifestyle each day while participating in any activity you choose.

Amenities

When it comes to what amenities your home offers versus what senior living communities provide, the differences are clear.

  • Does your home include a fitness center? If not, you’ll have to pay for a membership or purchase the equipment.
  • Do you regularly host guests for book clubs or social events? If not, you’ll likely travel to them.
  • Do you need a new hairdo? You can do it yourself or go to a salon, but at Waterstone, you just have to walk out your door and go to our full-service salon.

At Waterstone at the Circle, all this and more are covered. At your home, everything is extra – or, even worse, not available.

Dining

Even if you like to cook, grocery shopping and cleanup can be time consuming. Say goodbye to these hassles with an exceptional dining experience at Waterstone at the Circle. Here, we do the shopping, preparing, cooking and cleaning so you can simply savor each meal with new friends or your family.

Is your schedule always packed full? Don’t worry about fitting your schedule around our dining times. With anytime dining, you can dine when you choose.

At home, you still need to take care of all of these things yourself, unless you dine out, order in, or use a meal delivery service.

Access to Support

Communities like Waterstone at the Circle offer support on site – enhancing confidence if a change in health occurs. This allows you to remain in the community you love.

When you live at home, you may need to hire in-home care to provide support for you. Or your children may be required to plan a move to an assisted living community if you’re no longer able to decide on your own.

This leads many to choose senior living communities that offer a continuum of care or health services, bringing peace of mind.

Discover the Best of Senior Living at Waterstone at the Circle

Waterstone at the Circle is the perfect place to enjoy all the benefits senior living can offer. To experience our lifestyle and learn more about why you should move to senior living rather than remain at home, schedule a visit or join us for an upcoming open house.

EXPERIENCE WATERSTONE AT THE CIRCLE FOR YOURSELF.

Discover how Waterstone at the Circle’s location can enhance your active, on-the-go lifestyle. Schedule a visit today to learn more about our premier independent living community designed to enrich life for seniors 62 and over.

Categories
The Circle

4 Factors That Impact Our Longevity

As older adults continue to reach new age milestones – with some seniors becoming centenarians or even supercentenarians – the factors that can impact longevity become increasingly important to consider. After all, you want to grow older in good health and with a high quality of life.

Whether your goal is to find out the secret to living to record-breaking years, or if you simply want to work toward better overall health, we’re sharing some of the positive ways you can impact your senior health and longevity.

What factors affect longevity? What can you do to enhance it?

Many circumstances can impact our average life expectancy; some may be controllable, while others are not. With life expectancy at 77 years as of 2020 in the United States, and many people living longer than this, check out some of the key factors that can make the biggest impact on longevity while reducing your risks and increasing your likelihood of staying healthy.

Genetics

Genetics play a big role in health and wellness for seniors, which also impacts longevity. For example, some diseases and illnesses can put you more at risk, like high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. This makes it important to:

  • Talk to family members about their medical history
  • Get regular medical screenings
  • Keep close tabs on heart disease
  • Visit your doctor on a regular basis
  • Keep a record of your health conditions so you can make family members aware

Gender can also impact longevity, with some studies showing that women may live slightly longer than men. This was mainly due to women striving for healthier lifestyle habits and men being more likely to engage in risky behavior. Interestingly enough, this is currently being challenged by a new study showing that men who are married and men who have college degrees may be more likely to outlive women.

Genetics may play a predictive part in longevity, too. If family members lived a longer period of time, it’s possible you could, as well.

Lifestyle Factors

Your lifestyle can impact longevity in a number of ways. Good health habits can increase your life expectancy, so be sure to manage your overall mental and physical health as well as your emotional health.

  • Get regular exercise and stay physically active – both of which are critical for maintaining a healthy weight and promoting muscle retention, balance and more
  • Eat well-balanced, nutritious meals
  • Stop smoking and reduce alcohol intake
  • Get adequate sleep at night
  • Adopt a positive outlook and mindset

Socialization

Socialization can impact your mental health, increasing the risks of depression and isolation. In fact, those who are lonely may be more likely to stop pursuing activities they love, engaging in lifelong learning, or spending time with others. For better health in your retirement years, it’s important to:

  • Join special interest clubs or social groups
  • Pursue educational classes or opportunities
  • Try a new hobby that piques your interests
  • Plan activities with friends and be open to meeting new people

Environment

While you may not consider this often, your environment can also impact longevity.

  • If transportation is an issue, it may be harder for you to connect with others, volunteer or work part time in your free time, get involved in the community, or enjoy lifelong learning opportunities
  • If you live at home, especially if you live alone, you may not be as likely to cook healthy meals for yourself or shop for yourself
  • You may be farther away from healthcare and support if needed

To combat this, many seniors begin to consider moving to a more urban area, or they may move to a senior living community – putting them conveniently close to healthcare, entertainment, social opportunities and more.

Plan Well for the Future with Waterstone at the Circle

At a community like ours, you’ll find like-minded individuals, access to healthcare services, gourmet dining, a wide range of social and cultural events, and an active, worry-free lifestyle. It’s everything you need to live healthy and well.

For more information about life at Waterstone at the Circle, contact our team or schedule a visit today. We’d love to share all the ways we keep residents active, engaged and healthy as they age – all while experiencing a lifestyle they love.

EXPERIENCE ALL WATERSTONE AT THE CIRCLE HAS TO OFFER

The best way to get a feel for whether Waterstone at the Circle is right for you is by visiting, talking with residents, and exploring our lifestyle for yourself. Schedule a tour or visit our website today to learn more about our premier independent living community for seniors 62 and over.

When seniors search for a retirement community, they often think about the floor plans, the activities, the dining, and the on-site programs. However, they may be missing one important aspect: How desirable the surrounding area may be.

Location can make or break a decision to move to a senior living community. What’s more, location preferences can be different for everyone, making it essential to:

  • Schedule a tour to immerse yourself in the community
  • Get a feel for what the surrounding community offers
  • Hear directly from the residents what they think about the location and the opportunities it provides

For many seniors, the factor that’s increasingly important is their community neighborhood’s walkability. Older adults are actively looking for a senior living community where they can stay involved in the greater community – one that’s easily accessible and provides opportunities just outside their doors.

Benefits of Walkable Senior Living Community

Whether seniors don’t drive, want to get more exercise, are looking for a way to easily connect with others, or are trying to help the environment, walkable senior living locations offer many advantages, including:

Wellness and Health Benefits

People who live in walkable neighborhoods are more likely to travel by foot or bike. This provides an additional opportunity to get exercise while maintaining a healthy weight, strengthening bones, reducing the risk of heart disease, improving balance, and more.

Even better, if you’re looking for an added boost, walking can enhance your mood, help reduce stress, and improve cognition.

Social Benefits

Being involved in a walkable area can bring a greater sense of community and increased opportunities to connect with others. Often, you’ll also find more ways to volunteer, engage with younger generations, and explore new hobbies. Being connected to a community can decrease feelings of loneliness and enhance independence.

Financial Benefits

Many people include vehicle and maintenance costs like gas and auto insurance within their monthly budget. A walkable area – especially one that’s located near public transportation if needed – means you no longer have to plan for these costs.

Environmental Benefits

Walkable cities and pedestrian-friendly areas reduce the number of vehicles on the road. This helps decrease the environmental impacts of air pollution while also reducing a community’s carbon footprint.

Walkable Things To Do at Waterstone at the Circle

Discover just some of the walkable hot spots that await our residents just outside the doors of our premier senior living community.

  • Enjoy Cassidy Park or the Chestnut Hill Reservoir walking trail
  • Order a bite to eat at Eagle’s Deli, Cafée Landwer, Cityside Tavern or Pino’s Pizza
  • Explore the Metropolitan Waterworks Museum
  • Grab some essentials at CVS Pharmacy or 7-Eleven
  • Savor a drink at Kung Fu Tea or Dunkin’
  • Visit guests at the AC Hotel by Marriott
  • Grab some sushi at Fin’s Sushi & Grill or Sushi Momento

Fun is only a short ride away – or just outside your door.

Aside from how walkable our community is, you can easily travel to locations that are farther away. Whether you choose to take the MBTA Green Line, schedule private transportation with our concierge, or travel in your own vehicle, you can easily reach whichever nearby destinations you please. With some of the best locations just a few minutes away, there will always be something fun to do.

  • Enjoy a sporting event at Fenway Park
  • Check out the Museum of Fine Arts or the Arnold Arboretum
  • Go shopping at The Street in Chestnut Hill, Newton Centre, Copley Place, Harvard Square, North End or Prudential Center
  • Visit Boston College or Boston University
  • Experience a performance at the Citizens Bank Opera House, the Coolidge Corner Theatre, or the Boston Symphony Orchestra
  • Take the grandkids to the Franklin Park Zoo
  • Tour the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
  • Play at one of the many golf courses near Boston

Would you prefer to stay in at Waterstone at the Circle?

Remaining within our community is certainly an option you have the freedom to enjoy as well! Here, you can simply walk outside your apartment door to enjoy enriching programs, exquisite dining, engaging social and cultural activities, and wellness opportunities. Whether you want to chat with friends, try a new hobby, work on your fitness goals, or explore a new interest, we can make it happen.

No matter your preferences, the versatility of our senior living location allows you to spend each day as you please.

EXPERIENCE WATERSTONE AT THE CIRCLE FOR YOURSELF

Discover how Waterstone at the Circle’s location can enhance your active, on-the-go lifestyle. Schedule a visit today to learn more about our premier independent living community designed to enrich life for seniors 62 and over.

Categories
The Circle

Benefits of Friendships as We Age

There’s nothing better than a good friend – one you can call when you’re feeling down; those you’re the first to go to when something great happens; the ones you can always count on. While it’s true that as we age, friends may come and go, there’s plenty to be said for those who stay – and the ones we make along the way.

Benefits of Senior Friendship and Socialization

Social connections, friendships and meeting new people can have physical, mental and emotional benefits for older adults. Discover some of the many advantages below.

Physical Benefits

Having friends increases your activity levels.

If you’re always trying a new activity with a friend, doing sports together, going on walks, or consistently competing in yard games, you’re not sitting at home alone with little physical activity. Doing these things with your friends helps you get out of your space and keeps you active and connected.

Did you know that socializing beyond your normal friend and family group can have physical benefits, too? A study in The Journals of Gerontology, Series B: Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences found that those who have more variety in their social interactions spent less time being sedentary.

Friends encourage you to be your best self.

Those you love can be great motivators when it comes to regular exercise and eating healthy. Whether they are working toward a healthier lifestyle with you, or you want to remain active while being at your personal best, your health will likely benefit.

If health problems occur, you’ll have support.

Your best friend may have had a similar ailment (or know someone else who did) and be able to provide advice. An acquaintance may know exactly how to help care for you during a migraine. Another friend may know the perfect chiropractor to get you moving again without pain.

Mental and Emotional Health Benefits

Friendship can decrease the risk of cognitive decline.

Socializing can help improve brain function and sharpen cognitive abilities. It can also lower the risk of dementia.

Social contact with family members, close friends or new friends increases positivity.

Those surrounded by a vibrant social circle are less depressed, isolated, and lonely. Many people find that they are at their happiest when they are around their friends and loved ones. Whether this is because laughter is contagious or because friends provide a sense of belonging, socialization can boost mood, increase feelings of happiness – and may even help you live longer!

Expand Your Circle

Do these senior socialization benefits have you ready to spring into action? Some older adults may choose to expand their social circles by joining senior centers; however, many seniors find that a senior living community like Waterstone at the Circle offers a wider variety of programs, activities, and benefits – along with expanded possibilities for engagement and socialization. And even better, they await just outside their door.

Waterstone at the Circle: Making Socialization Easier

Here, there’s always an opportunity to engage with new friends, add variety to your activities, and bring even more fun to life. Discover how our lifestyle can keep you socially active.

Spend Each Day as You Please

At Waterstone at the Circle, we offer a carefree lifestyle where everything is taken care of for you, freeing you to pursue new passions, make new friends, volunteer your time and talents, or join a new club.

Enjoy a Range of Amenities

With a multitude of possibilities that await around every corner, you can have your choice of things to do – and plenty of people to enjoy them with.

  • Play games in the card room
  • Enjoy a movie in the theater with friends
  • Relax in the great room with family
  • Bond over the love of pets while helping your furry friend socialize
  • Explore Boston and all it has to offer with outings and trips

Explore Culturally Immersive Programs and Special Interest Clubs

It’s easy to meet plenty of people who share your interests simply by filling your social calendar with what you love. Some of the many programs we offer include:

  • Lecture series
  • Film screenings
  • Concerts
  • Group tai chi
  • Creative writing courses
  • Painting classes
  • Aqua aerobics
  • On- and off-site educational programs

Experience All Waterstone at the Circle Has to Offer

The best way to get a feel for whether Waterstone at the Circle is right for you is by visiting, talking with residents, and exploring our lifestyle for yourself. Schedule a tour or visit our website today to learn more about our premier independent living community for seniors 62 and over.

Portrait of smiling senior women holding a wine glass
Portrait of smiling senior women holding a wine glass


One of the best parts of independent living at Waterstone at the Circle is that you can enjoy urban living with all the conveniences of a lifestyle centered around your happiness – and this includes culturally immersive programs, carefree living, and a prime location putting you close to everything that matters to you.

Whether you simply want to enjoy all that our location offers, are looking to enjoy an activity with your grandchildren, or want to explore the range of senior-friendly activities around the Boston area, there’s an ever-growing list of things to do.

Senior-Friendly Things To Do in Boston and Beyond

At Waterstone at the Circle, and in Boston in general, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. No matter your goal or interests, we’re sure there’s an option that will bring you joy, fun and excitement. Check out some of our top suggestions below.

Take in the sports – or get some exercise.

Boston is located in the perfect place for getting active or enjoying a range of sporting activities. Whether you prefer to sit on the sidelines or get in on the action, there’s plenty to do.

  • Catch a game at Fenway Park or take a tour.
  • Enjoy time at Boston Common, America’s oldest public park.
  • Stroll along the Chestnut Hill Reservoir.
  • Visit one of the many gardens throughout our area.
  • Go golfing in Boston’s surrounding area.
  • Swim, kayak or build sandcastles with the grandkids on some of the many accessible islands.

Tour historic sites and national historic landmarks.

Are you a history lover? You’ve come to the right place! There are so many historical sites to enjoy. Consider visiting one of these or enjoying a guided tour!

  • Visit the Paul Revere House or see if an event is scheduled soon.
  • Tour the USS Constitution or visit the museum.
  • Check out the old churches and their beautiful stained-glass pieces throughout Boston.
  • Take a trolley tour.
  • Check out the Bunker Hill Monument when it re-opens! It’s been receiving ongoing restoration work as of March 28, 2022.
  • Visit one of the many educational institutions in the area, like Harvard University or Boston College.
  • Book a guided walking tour on the Freedom Trail.

Delight in dining.

There’s never a shortage of delicious dining options in Boston. Whether you are looking for fine dining or something more casual, these options may do the trick.

  • Grab some delicious seafood at the Boston Harbor.
  • Visit the North End for Italian food.
  • Check out one of the many food trucks you can usually find.
  • Enjoy outdoor dining at one of many beautiful locations throughout Boston.
  • Visit some of the breweries, wineries and more in the area.
  • Enjoy some of the best area dishes with a Yummy Walks guided food tour.

Go shopping.

For some, there’s nothing more fun than finding a new favorite shop, supporting local businesses or enjoying quality time having fun shopping with friends. Boston is full of wonderful places to shop ‘til you drop! Visit:

  • Visit Faneuil Hall Marketplace.
  • Shop name brands at Copley Place.
  • Check out the vendors at Haymarket Boston.
  • Shop at the Prudential Center.
  • Visit The Street in Chestnut Hill.

Explore on the water.

Do you and your friends love to set sail? Boston and the surrounding area are great places to start. Try some of these ideas to satisfy your love of the water.

  • Did you know that May through October is the best time for whale watching? Consider booking a tour.
  • Take a ride in a swan boat in the public garden lagoon.
  • Make a splash with a Boston Duck Tour, crossing both land and water.
  • Go fishing for bass.
  • Check out the Charles River Watershed, which begins in Hopkinton and ends in the Boston Harbor.

Visit popular attractions.

Whether your grandkids are visiting, your friends are coming to stay for a bit, or you simply want to explore, some of these popular attractions might just be what you’re looking for!

Something for everyone.

As you can see, there are plenty of things for seniors to do in the Boston and Chestnut Hill areas. What’s even better is that, at Waterstone at the Circle, we put you in the center of it all.

Situated at the intersection of Chestnut Hill Avenue and Beacon Street, Waterstone at the Circle’s landmark location puts you near shopping, dining, entertainment, cultural venues and more.

Enjoy any of the above activities by taking public transportation, driving yourself or taking advantage of our chauffeur and concierge services, or simply enjoy everything our community has to offer. From fine dining to engaging programs, social opportunities and more, there is always something to enjoy at our luxury retirement community.

Before you set off.

As we all know in these times, shops may close, restaurants may limit seating, shows may have requirements, and hours may vary. Make sure that when you are considering your plans, you call, visit social media pages, or check out their websites prior to your planning and arrival. This can ensure these attractions are open to the public while preventing any unwanted changes in plans or disappointments.

Also, be sure to check out wheelchair accessibility, if needed, and consider the weather before you go if planning an event outdoors!

WATERSTONE AT THE CIRCLE. NOW THIS IS HOME.

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

We often hear many people say, “If you don’t use it, you lose it,” especially in regard to staying active, healthy and at optimal wellness. While this can most certainly be true, as we see older adults age and place a greater emphasis on fitness and health, living the lifestyle they love and expanding their minds, it begs the question – do they really know something we don’t know?

Consider what you think of when you imagine traditional nursing homes, assisted living facilities and senior living communities of the past. If you’re like many, you might envision seniors who sit around and watch TV, who aren’t very active, and don’t really socialize or participate in engaging activities. You might even imagine something more akin to a hospital environment.

Now, think about your family members or your friends’ grandparents; do they fit that image you have created in your mind? Most likely, the answer is a resounding no! Today, seniors are running circles around those negative views and stereotypes – and will continue to do so.

The truth is that the seniors of today know aging really is only a state of mind. Not only do they embrace aging, but they welcome it, using their time as an opportunity to be their best, to enhance their health, to continue their pursuit of lifelong learning, and to really make the most of their golden years. It’s a lesson many would do well to learn from, and older adults are more than happy to share how to embrace the aging process.

Why Age Is a State of Mind

At Waterstone at the Circle, a luxury independent living community located at the foot of Chestnut Hill in Boston, those we serve know better than anyone that the younger you feel, the better you feel – cognitively, physically and mentally.

In fact, a study published by the American Psychological Association suggests this may be because of the link between subjective age and health, meaning that feeling younger may help protect those who are middle age or older from the effects of stress.

During the study, researchers found those who experienced more stress were more likely to have a decline in functional health and may even need long-term care, whereas those who experienced less stress and less functional decline appeared to feel younger than their chronological age.

This is one of the many reasons Waterstone at the Circle provides a worry-free, active lifestyle that ensures seniors can define how they age – or find ways to feel even younger than before.

Aging in Independent Living

As a premier retirement living community, Waterstone at the Circle provides an active, enriching lifestyle that makes it easy to embrace the idea that age is a state of mind. Get a feel for what residents at The Circle enjoy every day by exploring our offerings below:

A Range of Engaging Programs and Activities

It’s easy to feel young when you’re surrounded by opportunities for personal growth, fulfillment and fun. At Waterstone at the Circle, residents can experience culture, try out new hobbies, take classes, join clubs, enjoy film screenings and attend a variety of events. All these programs are meticulously scheduled to promote overall happiness and health.

Services and Amenities

With concierge services and private chauffeur service, we’re always on hand to ensure easy, active, carefree living. With more free time to do the things you love, you can enjoy our movie theater, lounge, patio overlooking Cassidy Park, and exciting planned trips. No matter your preferences, at Waterstone at the Circle, there’s always something to do and plenty of people to socialize and spend time with. It’s a dynamic lifestyle – complete with access to any support that might be needed – that keeps you feeling energetic and engaged.

Opportunities to Enhance Wellness

The more active you are, the younger you tend to feel – or at least that’s what our residents tell us! With a variety of fitness classes, an indoor heated pool, and fitness and aquatic instructors, we can help you stay healthy and well.

Supportive Care Services

While we’re known for premier independent living, supportive care services are also available within our private apartments, allowing residents to receive care and services in the retirement community they love, surrounded by the team, friends and amenities that make them feel young at heart.

Discover an Independent Living Lifestyle That Redefines Aging

Not only do these offerings enhance the ability for seniors to live independently at Waterstone, but they also help them stay involved, social and active. These are key components to feeling healthy – and embracing the changes that come with age. Are you ready to throw away the idea of what aging used to be like? Schedule a visit to learn more about life at The Circle today.

WATERSTONE AT THE CIRCLE. NOW THIS IS HOME.

Waterstone at the Circle offers independent living and supportive care options at the foot of Chestnut Hill in Boston – close to the Chestnut Hill Reservoir and fine retailers and restaurants at The Street. Contact us to learn more or to make an appointment with our Senior Advisor.

Loading...