Maybe you’ve toyed with the idea of Independent Living in a senior living community. Perhaps you’ve wondered whether it’s affordable or might actually lower the level of independence you have now. You’re not alone. People have different ideas about Independent Living, but they’re not always grounded in fact. Until you take a hard look at your current living expenses, what maintaining a home demands of you physically and emotionally, and what living there may be like in the coming years, you won’t know whether Independent Living is right for you […]

Wellness is often mistakenly used to mean fitness. But it’s more than just physical health, particularly when it comes to senior wellness. Good senior wellness programs should address every part of a person as a whole, including their emotional, intellectual, physical, social, spiritual and vocational needs. Senior wellness programs in a senior living community aim to help older adults take responsibility for their well-being and cultivate an optimistic view of aging based on active involvement. Communities today provide myriad  opportunities to engage with life. Shifting the focus from care to […]

Question: If you could do one thing this week, what would you like to do? Answer: “I would just like to be here at Friendship Village and live my regular life, but maybe be able to get around a little easier. I would also like a little more time for reading. My problem is, if I start reading a book, I don’t get anything else done.” – Pat Kirchoff, Friendship Village Sunset Hills resident After gathering about 170 interviews and photos, we will publish A BOOK  featuring all the great […]

Moving into senior living, and even starting a senior living search, is something people find easy to put off. But is this a good idea? No. The sooner you start your search, the easier it will be on you, your family, and your future health and happiness. In fact, the earlier you begin looking at and comparing Life Plan Communities, the more control you’ll have over your next living situation. Let’s consider some of the reasons why. Why wait for freedom and security? Once you’re out from under the burdens […]

Question: When you were a teacher and administrator, why do you think it was so important to implement Title 9 into athletics so female student athletes could compete? Answer: “When I joined the Clayton School District in 1958 (and retired in 1992), I coached and later became the Athletic Director. I have girls of my own, so I could see how important it was to pass that law (Title 9) and the girls were very interested. I remember the girls being in the weight room…they were more serious about weights […]

Moving may not be everyone’s favorite activity, but eventually we all change our address. What does this mean for seniors selling their home? Initially it might mean stressing over details and logistics, but if you approach your home sale with patience and common sense, you can simplify the process and move on to a more rewarding lifestyle in a less stressful environment like a senior living community. These six home seller tips will help you break down the elements of a successful home sale. Tip 1. Get a realistic perspective […]

Unless you’re an attorney practicing contract law, it’s not surprising to find the language and detail of senior living contracts to be a bit confusing and maybe even intimidating. So it’s always a good idea to have your lawyer and financial advisor review and clarify any residency agreement before you sign it. Not only are there several types of senior living contracts, but they can differ significantly depending on a number of variables — whether or not the community you choose offers a continuum of care, where it’s located geographically, […]

Having a pet as a companion can be a wonderful way to add engagement to life. Spending time with a cat or dog brings comfort and wards off feelings of loneliness. Pet ownership is also connected with better overall health and wellness. The University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging found a variety of pet therapy benefits for seniors ages 50+. Their study showed owning a pet helps older adults enjoy life and feel loved. It also helped reduce stress and stick to a routine. Owning a dog was […]

Conversations with parents about health care can be tough. No one likes to admit they need help with the activities of daily living, and many view moving to a senior living community as surrendering their independence. You may be putting off talking to parents about assisted living because you’re not sure how to broach the topic or are worried about how they’ll react. It’s common for families to postpone the subject of assisted living until an accident or medical crisis forces a decision under stress. First, do your homework. Prepare […]