A recent article in the Boston Globe, “There’s a window, and once it closes, it closes forever,” takes an in-depth look at a question many seniors have at some point. When should I make the transition to senior living?
When answering this multifaceted question, there is a lot to consider. While health issues may be the determining factor for some, others seek out senior living communities so they can gain a wider community network and increased opportunities for socialization. Perhaps a desire to downsize or for an easier way of life is what spurs the move. Regardless of the reason, there is one commonality. Oftentimes, seniors wait too long before making the transition to senior living.
Aging in the Right Place
Aging in place is a popular idea these days. With homecare options and healthcare technologies making it easier and safer than ever for seniors — even ones with limited mobility — to stay in their homes, there can be a reluctance to make the move to senior living. According to recent AARP surveys, the majority of adults age 50 and older want to remain in the current residence for as long as possible. But doing so isn’t always realistic.
Though it’s easy to give in to fears of the unknown and stay put for as long as possible, 39 percent of seniors who live in homes that can’t meet their needs as they grow older report feeling frequently isolated. So perhaps it’s not about aging in place, but rather aging in the right place.
As the Boston Globe article asserts, “Many older people are happier after moving to a place where life’s chores are eased, activities and social opportunities are on site, and a van goes right to the grocery store.” While aging in place may be the right option for some seniors, we’ve found that many of our residents say they wished they’d made the move sooner. Here, they have friends and a community to support them — even as their needs change.
Successful Aging at Waterstone
We know that most senior living communities host regular social activities to engage residents and create a feeling of togetherness, but our whole community — from its overall design to its features and amenities — supports a successful aging experience. And what is successful aging experience? An article in The Gerontologist defines it as “low probability of disease and disease-related disability, high cognitive and physical functional capacity, and active engagement with life.”
At Waterstone at Wellesley, residents have access to concierge services, complimentary town car transportation and housekeeping for an easier way of life, as well as gourmet dining, a sunlit indoor pool, a fitness center and theater for an engaging experience every day. Our community also has an on-site putting green, riverfront walking paths and outdoor courtyards, allowing residents to take advantage of the great outdoors while improving their physical health.
And because we both independent and assisted living, we can support any changes in our residents needs as they arise. There’s no worry about having to move on from our community — once residents are here, they’re here to stay.
Making the transition to senior living isn’t always an easy choice. But doing so before life circumstances necessitate a move does help make the choice and overall process a bit easier. If you have questions about timing your move, we’d love to talk or connect with a few of our residents who can help answer your questions. Give us a call at 781.235.1614.
Beautiful Riverfront Community
Located on the banks of the Charles River, Waterstone is Wellesley’s only senior living community, offering premier independent and assisted living. But that’s only the first of many differences that sets Waterstone above and beyond other communities.
Celebrating Dynamic Living
Here our residents live independently in their own private, spacious apartments – but without any of the worries or concerns of homeownership or living alone. All meals are expertly prepared. There aren’t any chores to be concerned with. No home maintenance or repairs to worry about. Just opportunities around every corner and time to spend as they choose - in the company of new friends.
Our vibrant community encourages residents to engage in a variety of recreational, cultural and social programs and activities. Enjoy a fitness class. Swim in the sunny indoor pool. Take a stroll on a walking path. Partake in a favorite hobby or pastime. Discover a new interest. With Waterstone at Wellesley, there’s a world of opportunity waiting right outside our residents’ doors.
Confidence of Care
The hallmark of Waterstone assisted living is the peace of mind we provide both our residents and their families. Knowing that care and support is available right on site instills a sense of confidence and calm one can’t find living alone.
