As the sun begins to rise over the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, a few dedicated swimmers prepare to take the plunge. Even at this early hour, their enthusiasm is palpable.

These swimmers are residents of Shenandoah Valley Westminster-Canterbury, a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) in Winchester, Va., featuring a state-of-the-art aquatic center. While the swimmers certainly enjoy the physical benefits of working out, it is the social connections that keep them coming back.

“The pool is really a social meeting place,” explained Kathy Headley, Westminster-Canterbury’s Wellness and Vitality Manager. “Of course, we’re working out at the same time and doing valuable exercises that most of us can’t do on land.”

While many residents swim purely for recreation, Kathy goes on to note that some of the community’s swimmers are recovering from a joint replacement, coping with arthritis or managing a chronic illness. “They can do so much more in the water: run, jump, and walk, and it’s more resistance and just a better workout,” she said.

As several face personal health challenges, the swimmers have become part of a tight-knit group in an extremely welcoming community. “Even though there are nearly 400 residents, this community is one big family,” said Kathy.

Westminster-Canterbury’s swimmers unanimously agree. While they are certainly dedicated to their workouts, they are even more committed to their fellow swimmers, and they are always looking for new recruits.

A Pool Ambassador

An avid lap swimmer, Paul Ziluca has helped unite Westminster-Canterbury’s growing group of swimmers by encouraging residents to take full advantage of the oversized pool. Paul started swimming to increase his lung capacity and battle his worsening asthma. In the past four years, he has quietly lent a hand to make sure the aquatic programming meets the needs of the various types of swimmers on campus.

“When I came here, I did my best to avoid doing anything. I was going to be really retired,” Paul recalled. “Within just a couple of years, I was involved in everything. It’s been very engaging for me and quite an eye opener about how to manage your life as you get older.”

While Paul is certainly proud of his own aquatic accomplishments, he beams when he speaks of his wife, Louise, and her achievements in the pool. “We moved here because of my wife’s Parkinson’s disease,” Paul said. “Now, she’s in a
wheelchair, but this summer, she participated in the aquatic walking event in our Senior Olympics, and she won a gold medal!” Paul went on to explain that Louise’s determination has become a source of inspiration for other residents.

Aquatic Athletes (and Friends)

Bob and Cari Sherwood were inspired by her aunt to move to a retirement community early, so they could enjoy the lifestyle. The couple is now among the youngest residents at Shenandoah Valley Westminster-Canterbury, and they have never regretted their move.

“We’re just delighted that we moved. Within six months, we got to know so many pleasant people, and we’ve become very close to a number of them,” Bob said.

In addition to their new friends, the Sherwoods also love all the community amenities, including the pool. They routinely share this perk with their grandson, who enjoys open swim time when he visits each week. Bob also participates in an advanced aquatic class – even occasionally teaching it – which has become a balm for his spirit.

“The class is more than just a class,” he said. “It’s become a social event in and of itself. It’s a lot more than just swimming.”

Bob goes on to explain that in addition to aquatic exercises the group enjoys singing traditional songs and taking advantage of the acoustics in the pool area. The group also selects a word of the day, which they use as part of their workouts.

“I think the people in the class are, if you will, missionaries for the benefits of exercise,” Bob said. The class members are also one example among many of what life is like in a strong community: full of camaraderie and support.

Swim Buddies 

The Sherwoods certainly aren’t the only Westminster-Canterbury residents who benefit from the accessibility of aquatic exercise. Elizabeth and Jimmie Harp swim six days a week, all year round. They started swimming because Elizabeth was experiencing back pain.

“The doctor told me that if I didn’t keep moving, soon I wouldn’t be able to move,” Elizabeth said. Jimmie became her swim buddy, and the two now enjoy spending early mornings together in the water.

The couple moved to Shenandoah Valley Westminster-Canterbury three-and-a-half years ago after some of their friends exposed them to the wonderful lifestyle. “I wanted to be around more people and see them on a more regular basis,” said Elizabeth. “Too many people say they’re not ready, but we wanted to move before it was an emergency.”

Since moving, the couple has become very involved in the community. Jimmie is a devoted woodworker and has repaired furniture and built custom pieces for his fellow residents in Westminster-Canterbury’s woodworking shop. Elizabeth enjoys the community’s many entertainment and volunteer opportunities.

A Great Comeback

Lydia Mefford was desperately looking for support when she discovered Westminster-Canterbury. Her husband, who had Alzheimer’s disease, had recently passed away. As his primary caregiver, she quickly realized she needed friendship and interaction. She found a wonderful group of people who sustained her through her grieving process and were there for her when she faced her own health challenges.

After a traumatic fall resulted in a broken meniscus and excruciating pain, Lydia benefited from the physical and emotional support of the community’s residents and staff. “When my orthopedic surgeon said I needed a physical therapist and a therapeutic pool, I knew just where to go,” Lydia smiled as she recalled. “I came home to Westminster-Canterbury and spoke with our physical therapist immediately. After two weeks of his magical maneuvers, the pain was going away. Now, I can walk in high heels anytime I want.”

After regaining her mobility, Lydia kept swimming. She’s now able to fully enjoy all that her new home has to offer. “I’ve never had more fun in my whole life,” Lydia exclaimed. “I really think perhaps I’ve died and gone to heaven.”

True Team Spirit

Some folks dive right in. Others wade in more slowly. These divergent approaches could be used to describe both swimming and retirement living. Some retirees make the move early and never look back; others take their time making a decision. However, almost all retirees find that once they take the plunge into retirement living, they quickly discover new interests, great friends and old passions.

In the wee hours of the morning, a few dedicated swimmers make their way across the quiet campus of Shenandoah Valley Westminster-Canterbury — excited to greet the dawning of a new day and eager to take the plunge once again. Having discovered a pastime with unmatched physical, social and emotional benefits, they are now busy soaking up all that retirement living has to offer.

Although Geoffrey and Barbara Mynott remain busy with organizations outside of Dunwoody Village, they still enjoy spending time relaxing in their spacious country house.

The Mynotts attended Bucknell University before Geoffrey briefly went into the service.  He then started his own business, Conestoga Tool Company, where Barbara eventually joined him after working at Wyeth Laboratories and raising their two sons.

Over the years, the couple has enjoyed travelling and bird watching.  As avid golfers, they have been involved with the Merion Golf Club.

According to Barbara, she was the “mover and shaker” behind the decision to move from their family home.  “I loved it, we had wonderful gardens, but it became too much for me to manage,” she said.

They proceeded to move into a townhome for several years before looking into retirement living communities.  “We looked at a few places, but I’ve always had an affiliation with Dunwoody because most of my mother’s friends were here,” she said.  “I’ve felt very comfortable here, and was even more impressed after taking a tour.”

Although the couple said the decision to move in general was difficult, they have had no regrets knowing the peace of mind it has not only provided each of them, but also their children.  “We both strongly agreed we did not want our children to worry about us as we got older.  We wanted to have everything in place so they didn’t have to make the decisions,” said Geoffrey.

After two and a half years at the community, the Mynotts have been enjoying their spacious country house and scenic views.  As they continue their pastimes of bird watching and attending Bucknell sporting events, they have also taken advantage of the active environment Dunwoody offers, while being pleasantly surprised at the number of friends they have made.

“It’s a very vibrant place; there is so much to do and there are a lot of interesting people,” said Barbara.  “The residents are very involved in programming activities.”

With several amenities including a fitness center and putting green, the community also brings in different entertainment, along with writers and professors for lectures. Although Geoffrey has not been able to get as involved, still working with his company and serving on the Bucknell Board of Trustees, Barbara has written for the community’s publication, ‘Inside Dunwoody,’ and is a member of the Documentary, Entertainment, History and Dining Services Committees.

According to the couple, this vibrant environment extends to Dunwoody’s nursing and personal care units, where some of their friends have received care.  “They have given testimonials about how wonderful the care is,” said Barbara.  “It’s so accessible and there’s a very upbeat spirit there.”

In addition to the care that is provided onsite, the Mynotts take pride in Dunwoody’s greater community outreach.  “People put in a lot of volunteer hours and we have a program where we make casseroles for local homeless people,” she said.

Although they were already familiar with many of these advantages, the Mynotts could not be happier looking forward to the years to come and even more surprises along the way.

“Dunwoody is one of the oldest retirement communities in our area,” said Barbara.  “They’ve been in business a long time, and they know what they’re doing.”

In addition to the range of healthcare services offered at the continuing care retirement community, Pauline and Dr. Robert Sumner were instantly drawn to Riddle Village for its beautiful grounds and friendly staff.

we feel very blessed,” said Pauline.

Therefore, they wanted to give her something in return by ensuring they would be cared for in their future years.  The couple agreed that Riddle Village, a Lifecare Retirement Community located in Media, Pa., would be the perfect place to help them achieve this.

“So many parents don’t want to give up their home and they don’t realize the responsibility that falls to the children,” said Pauline.  “It takes a tremendous burden off our daughter if something were to happen to us. It’s one of the greatest gifts you can give your children.”

While it offers their loved one peace of mind, it has also provided the Sumners themselves with an active environment and maintenance-free lifestyle.  Robert (Bob) is a retired dentist who practiced for 38 years after serving in the Air Force while Pauline was a teacher before their daughter was born.  Over the years, she has continually volunteered in their community and with their church.

“I may have been the one who started pushing for us to move since Bob has been retired for 14 years,” said Pauline.  “I was tired of cooking and maintaining the home.”

The Sumners proceeded to visit different communities in the area, and found they were instantly drawn to Riddle Village.  “The staff appealed to us the most and the appearance as we were walking into the beautiful gold lobby room,” said Pauline.

These aspects, in addition to the Lifecare community’s independent living, personal care and skilled nursing services, prompted the couple to make the move, and they have been enjoying life in their new home for the past five months.

With a range of amenities and activities at Riddle Village, the couple has been getting involved as much as possible, even finding outlets for sharing their different skills. Bob, an avid woodworker and cabinet maker, has donated extensive equipment to the community’s woodshop and looks forward to giving lessons.  Meanwhile, Pauline has started volunteering at the gift shop.  They also take advantage of the fitness center and try not to miss the various entertainment brought into the community.

“There are so many opportunities here that you can be busy all the time,” she said.  “You certainly aren’t retired when you’re here — you might get tired — but you are not retired.”

And Bob would agree as he balances his time to continue his efforts building a medical/dental clinic in Honduras.  Having helped others in different areas such as the South Pacific and Mexico, he has been able to share his knowledge as part of the Medical Committee at Riddle Village.

When he travels, however, he knows he has a wonderful home with a new found family waiting for him.  “Everyone here is so friendly, it has not been a problem getting to know people,” he said.  “Everything feels connected here since you can just go from one building to the other.”

For the couple, the friendly connections also apply to the staff.  “They are very supportive; from maintenance to the wait staff, they could not be more helpful and wonderful,” said Pauline.

As they enjoy delicious meals, a variety of entertainment or the beautiful settings of Riddle Village, the Sumners prove just how rewarding making the transition can be for everyone involved.

For Sally and Bill Moore, it was never a question that they would move to Ware Presbyterian Village due its reputation in senior living, rural setting and close proximity to their dairy farm.

their family receiving a Master Farmer award for the mid-Atlantic region.  Therefore, it was not surprising that when they ultimately decided to move to a retirement community, they did not want to stray far from their life’s work.  Fortunately, they were already familiar with Ware Presbyterian Village, a continuing care community in Oxford, Pa. that they knew would offer them an ideal location and security for their future years.

Although farming was their primary career, the Moores had taken on other jobs over the years.  Sally worked for the agricultural extension service for a year and while farming, she wrote for the local newspaper and taught sewing classes in their home.  A Penn State football fan, Bill was a Boy Scout leader and served on different farming boards, including the Chester County Agland Preservation Board.

Naturally as farmers, they enjoyed taking care of the different animals they accumulated.  “We started the farm with 60 cows and now we have 800,” said Sally.  “I also had sheep at one point and used their fleece for spinning.  Today, Bill has four horses and a couple of oxen on the farm.”

The couple was prompted at an early age to look into retirement living options as a result of the experiences they each had with their loved ones.

“When our mothers were 85, we basically had to force them to move, but they ended up having a wonderful time,” said Sally.  “My mother was at Ware Presbyterian Village, so we had agreed when we were closer to 75, we were moving.”

In addition to Sally knowing the Ware family, the support her mother had received and the couple’s desire for a charming rural setting led the couple to immediately put their name on the waiting list, and they were actually able to move sooner than they anticipated.  They attributed this fortune to the fact that, unlike many of their peers, they did not have to worry about selling their property as they gladly went into business with their son and daughter-in-law who now primarily run the farm.

For the past year and a half, the Moores have enjoyed taking advantage of the various amenities at their home while Bill still visits the farm daily.  “It’s only 20 minutes away, which has been very handy for us,” said Sally.

When they are not visiting the property, they are often utilizing the fitness center at Ware Presbyterian Village while Sally remains busy on the Activities Committee.  Although they knew some individuals at the community prior to moving in, the Moores said they are always making friends at dinner or the numerous socials and even went on a cruise recently with a group of fellow residents.

And their amount of friends will only increase as a result of the Ware expansion project which will add new Independent Living villas and apartments.  “Having more people will lead to more activities and opportunities for socialization,” said Sally.

Regardless of its size, the Moores know Ware Presbyterian Village will maintain the reputation they have always known.  They could not be happier with its vibrant environment and the peace of mind they have with the continuum of healthcare services provided by a supportive staff.

“We like this community and we’ve known about it for a long time.  We’re very glad we made the decision,” said Sally.

When she is not visiting with friends for coffee at Frey Village or enjoying a day outing, Mary Klemmer is busy volunteering and addressing birthday cards to her peers at the retiremnet community.

A vibrant, active senior, Mary Klemmer was adamant that she would never leave her home. But when a fall left her unconscious for three days before she was found and hospitalized, she knew she had to revisit her decision.

Her family set out on a search for a Continuing Care Retirement Community that could provide the necessary health-care services Mary needed right away, but also complement the busy lifestyle she enjoyed. Not sure where to turn, they were referred to Frey Village, a Diakon Lutheran Senior Living Community in Middletown, Pa.

“My daughter and granddaughter came here right away, looked at it and loved it!” says Mary, who recovered from her fall with the help of Frey Village’s nursing and rehabilitative care services before moving into her one-bedroom apartment. “The nurses and therapists keep saying, ‘We can’t believe it’s you!’ when they see me.”

Completely independent, the 90-year-old woman fills her days with lots of activities. Whether she is volunteering in the village’s Country Store, assisting the chaplain, or taking her daily walk around campus, she is never at a loss for something to do.

“I really think that my whole family cannot believe the adjustment I’ve made here and that I love it,” she says. “I try to be involved as much as possible. There is always something”””such as the village’s annual Strawberry Festival, Mount Gretna art outings, unique community involvements including one with students from the Diakon Wilderness Center, and a range of interesting and scenic trips”””in which you can become involved.”

Mary also looks forward to Frey Village’s weekly dinner outings to a Middletown-area church as a time to socialize and have fun with her dinner companions.

“I go every single week because I am so amazed at the town of Middletown, how friendly all the people are in these churches and how many helpful volunteers there are,” she says. “Even if I didn’t eat, I’d think it was wonderful because of the association with the people in town.”

The carefree lifestyle found at Frey Village is a perfect respite for Mary, who spent most of her adult life working in retail management, an industry known for long hours and high stress levels. For 15 years as the owner of Mary’s Bridal House in Lancaster, she handled the formal-dress needs for a variety of special occasions.

“Some weekends I had as many as 25 weddings. I did prom shows. I also did the Miss Lancaster County pageants,” she says. “I think back and don’t know how I ever did it.”

After closing the shop, Mary put her management experience to work for a number of retailers before retiring. To this day, she still volunteers her time to address and send birthday cards to all employees at Hallmark’s 10 stores in the Lancaster area.

“I also send everyone in the Frey Tower Apartments a birthday card,” she says. “That is my new mission.”

When not addressing birthday cards, volunteering, participating in a Frey Village outing, sharing a cup of coffee with a friend, or visiting residents in the community’s personal care center, Mary tends to the plants and flowers on her patio””or “other living room,” as she likes to call the outside space.

“I get up every morning and love to be out there with my coffee, enjoying the view,” she says. “I sometimes just stand out there and can’t believe that I’m here.”

Morgan and Rosalie Johnson have explored the world and lived a life helping each other, they now call The Hermitage of Northern Virginia, retirement community home.

As a graduate of the seminary with a degree in fine art, Morgan Johnson found his calling in life when he realized the effect of using pictures to teach people to read in Africa.  After a three-year term utilizing his talents and education as a missionary, however, Morgan returned home, wishing to get married before he traveled back to Africa.  

Fate kicked in when his mother, a professor, invited her student, Rosalie to dinner.  “She had quoted her son quite frequently in class, so I was very curious to meet him,” said Rosalie.  The two eventually married and after she finished medical school at Emory University, they began an adventurous life in Africa together.

There, Rosalie had ample opportunity to assist others as a physician as Morgan continued teaching and shared his passion for art through weekly illustrations in the local newspaper. All but one of their five children were born in Africa.Unlike most missionary families, the couple’s children attended the local village schools even in a time of intense segregation.”Our children have told us they are proud they attended the local schools,” said Morgan.”They have all done very well.”

When their kids were grown and in college the couple returned to Atlanta.  “Some people think that we sacrificed on our mission work, but for us it was so much fun,” said Rosalie.

In 1991 Morgan officially retired and was researching a book while Rosalie spent the following decade working at an AIDS Clinic. “It was fascinating and rewarding work, since I had seen my first AIDS patients in Africa when we had no treatment or medication,” she said.

As their children began starting their own families, they were primarily congregating around the Washington, D.C. area, so after Rosalie’s retirement, the Johnsons moved to an apartment in Silver Spring, Md. to be closer to everyone.

Soon they started thinking about their future and how they could continue their engaging lifestyle even if their health changed.As a result they started looking at retirement communities, and were drawn to the Methodist roots they found at the Hermitage in Northern Virginia, a not-for-profit community located in Alexandria.”We got a sense of belonging very quickly after moving here,” said Morgan.

Although they have a unique history, the Johnsons have truly enjoyed meeting their fellow residents at the Hermitage and hearing about their interesting experiences and varied passions.”We learn so much from each other here,” said Morgan.

Most importantly, they feel secure in knowing that their potential healthcare needs will be met with the assisted living and nursing care that is available at the Hermitage. “It really gives you peace of mind,” said Rosalie. “So far we haven’t needed it but it’s great to know that it’s here.”

Morgan continued saying, “Our family can rest easy knowing that we are well taken care of here, too.”

With this security and freedom from home-maintenance, the Johnsons enjoy the abundance of activity the Hermitage has to offer.”We have things going on here all the time,” said Rosalie, who, like Morgan, is involved in several committees and the Resident Council.

Between their years spent in Africa and the numerous opportunities and amenities they have found at the Hermitage, it may be safe to say that for the Johnsons, life is, and will continue to be, a constant adventure.

 This article was contributed by Brenda Becker, founder of Top-Drawer Resources, LLC

 Fortunately for residents of Maryland, there are many excellent options available for senior living. Where one chooses to live is really a matter of personal preference, need and opportunity.  One of the very best options available is the continuing care retirement community (CCRC), also known as a lifecare community.  In exchange for a monthly service fee and a refundable or non-refundable entrance fee, residents of these communities enjoy a variety of activities, access to facilities for dining and recreation, and varying levels of healthcare.

The relationship between the resident and the continuing care retirement community is spelled out in the Residence and Care Agreement created by that community. In the state of Maryland, these agreements are approved and regulated by the Department of Aging.  These are legally binding agreements that detail the obligations between the community and the resident.  While the communities may appear similar on the surface, it is very important for prospective residents to understand the contents of each contract and the services that are available to residents.  Here are just a few of the questions that anyone considering a move to a CCRC should ask before making a final decision.

- Will this initial Residence and Care agreement cover the entire continuum of care, or will I (or a representative) be asked to sign new contracts for assisted living and nursing care?

- How much of my entrance fee will be refunded to my heirs, and under what conditions?  What fees will be charged to my account when I leave the community?

- What is the historical annual monthly fee increase? What was the increase this year?

- What other fees may I be exposed to (e.g. housekeeping, maintenance, etc.)?

- Are pets allowed?

- What type of medical care is available to me onsite?  Is there a clinic staffed with geriatric professionals?  Is there a fee for these services or are they included in the monthly fee?

- If I need temporary care in my residence, who will come to assist me?

- If I move from independent living to assisted living or nursing care, how will my fees change?  Will I have a private room?  Is there a surcharge for a private room?

- How does my long term care insurance factor into the services that are offered?

- Will the community pay for my prescriptions?

- What transportation is available to me and what are the associated fees?

- What are the qualifications of the executive staff and what is their tenure with this community?

Be sure to visit ALL areas of the campus. Ask to see the assisted living rooms and the skilled nursing (or nursing home) area of the community.  Sample the food and by all means, spend time with the residents of the community.

Continuing care retirement communities provide more than just housing and easy access to healthcare, they offer residents the opportunity to enrich their later years through deep new friendships and social opportunities that otherwise may be difficult to access.  Let these questions be your guide to a wonderful new lifestyle opportunity.

“The house is SOLD!”

That was welcome news for Ed and Robin LaDrew.The future Tel Hai residents were eagerly packing. Their interest in the community’s newest neighborhood, Cedar Ridge, had grown as they reviewed mailings on the exciting new floor plans being offered. “We noticed they were selling fast and didn’t want to miss out,” Ed reported. The opportunity to move into a brand new home with a southern orientation and walk-out basement was terrifically attractive. Reviewing the cottage plans, they decided instantly this was the place for them.

Ed grew up in New Jersey but called Wayne, Pa. home for nearly two decades. He was aware of Tel Hai’s wonderful reputation over the years. A photographer with a commercial lab in Downingtown, his store manager also helped him feel “connected.” She volunteered at Tel Hai and shared her experiences on the campus and delightful interaction with residents.

Robin, an “Army brat,” moved a lot growing up.She met Ed when taking dancing lessons at the local YMCA. Although Ed had retired, Robin was still working as an on-call nurse when their decision to become part of the Tel Hai community was made.

Watching their aging parents attempt to maintain their own homes was a real eye-opener for the couple. “We knew we didn’t want that life for us,” said Ed.Too tired and sick to move, Robin’s 90-year-old parents resided in Virginia with live-in nursing care, further convincing the LaDrews to not wait until they felt “ready”””it might be too late!

Now, Robin is “having fun trying new things and meeting new people.” Ed said he enjoys “being part of a community of folks who share common interests.” They are exploring the region they now call home–savoring local produce in season, exploring the countryside and enjoying their worry-free life at Tel Hai.

Life on campus described as “fabulous…”

When you ask Karen Runyon for her impressions of life at the community, you get an enthusiastic response. “You couldn’t ask for better neighbors,” she said. This former nurse, widowed three years ago, moved into her cottage in September 2010. She found community life appealing in concept and looked in neighboring counties before finding Tel Hai.

She proudly shared with friends an online slide show she created featuring her new home and celebrating the beauty of her surroundings and her customized home. Everything is “so nice here””the people are lovely.” Karen’s neighbors enjoy having friendly chats as they meet on Evergreen Drive or plan get-togethers.

Becoming familiar with life at the community has offered many options””from donatingfurnishings to the Flea Market benefitting the Care Assurance Fund to attending a ukulele concert. Karen now enjoys a closer geographic relationship with her only sister and brother-in-law, too.When considering Tel Hai for her future home she learned that family members had preceded her in choosing cottage life here. Others had benefited from a health care-related experience on campus.Karen’s own rehab experience at The Meadows at Tel Hai after knee surgery generated kudos: “I’ve never seen a staff like we have here! We have a real gem in the health care center.” And staying active is easy””there is so much to choose from each day. Karen enjoys working on her computer, scrap booking, reading, knitting and traveling. “I know I can fill my days with interesting activities and new friends.”

Karen’s found a convenient location and a reasonably priced lifestyle. She said, “After living in NYC, Philadelphia and Charleston I’ve had a wealth of ‘neighborhood’ experiences. Now that I’m here at Tel Hai I’m surrounded by wonderful friendly folks””it’s fabulous!”

When you first meet Herb and M-M Harris from Philadelphia, you might be surprised to learn t

For the Harrises, the answer is simple “” they’ve chosen to live at the elegant Parkside at Rydal Park so life can be even more carefree. As the newest neighborhood of Rydal Park, the continuing care retirement community located in Abington Township, Parkside is ideal for people like Herb and M-M, who get the most out of each day they have.

“The truth is, we’re probably busier now than we’ve ever been,” laughs M-M. “Only now we’re doing more things we want to do, since we no longer have to shovel snow, rake leaves or take care of maintenance-type issues.”

The change in lifestyle that many people associate with moving to a retirement community is one people love at Rydal Park, say the Harrises. Rather than giving up their interests or ties to the community, they’re able to experience and enjoy even more.

“We don’t lack for things to do,” explains Herb. “We’re still very active in all the things we did before moving here. And as the president of the Residents’ Association, I’m always meeting with residents to gain insight into ways to make our community the best it can be.”

Currently, Rydal Park offers 45 different committees for residents to choose from, if they want to participate, in virtually every imaginable area of interest at the community “” dining, groundskeeping, programs “”there’s even a committee passionate about promoting healthier lifestyles through sustainability and recycling. Add in the numerous convenient services and amenities on site “” including a pool, fitness center, greenhouse, art gallery, library, restaurant dining and more, and there’s something for everyone. According to Herb and M-M, it’s the continuing care aspect of the community that makes all these new opportunities even more fulfilling.

“We really like the idea of continuing care,” explains M-M. “It’s such a great feeling to know if we ever need care, we’ll have it right here for as long as we need it “” and we won’t have to depend on our children. Both of our parents were in a retirement community like Rydal Park, so we know the advantages of having parents experience such a lifestyle. We want the best for our kids.”

Now that the community is undergoing a major campus renovation project, with recent upgrades including the brand new Club Room, library and salon spa, soon area seniors will have even more reason to call Rydal Park home. Currently underway is construction of the community’s brand new, state-of-the-art medical center, scheduled for completion in fall of 2011.

“It’s a very exciting time to live here,” says M-M. “There’s so much available to you that you wouldn’t have if you were living in a house or apartment somewhere. At Rydal Park, everyone really goes out of their way to meet each person and offer friendship and support. People can be as busy as their hearts desire. We absolutely love it here.”

]]> http://www.retirement-living.com/busier-than-ever/feed/ 0 http://www.retirement-living.com/a-team-effort/ http://www.retirement-living.com/a-team-effort/#comments Thu, 11 Nov 2010 17:22:56 +0000 Lauren Searson http://www.retirement-living.com/?p=1243 If you are looking for Alan and Millie Macfarlan, you might want to check out the Wii bowling activity area at Twining Village. In fact, visiting them may require an appointment.

As one-year residents of Twining Village, a Diakon Lutheran Senior Living Community in Holland, Pa., the couple fill their days with enjoyable activities, including socializing with friends in the new home. Whether attending a bingo game in the afternoon or seeing a movie at night, the Macfarlans keep themselves busy and love every minute of it.

“We moved to Twining Village over a year ago from the Churchville area because our large home was becoming too difficult to maintain,” explains Mrs. Macfarlan. “Along with the security and easy living at Twining, the activities and social aspect are just wonderful for us””and our health.”

Studies have shown that when older adults participate in a variety of activities, their health and sense of well-being improves. For this reason, senior living communities offer a wide range of stimulating programs, so that the individual needs of each resident are met.

As a Continuing Care Retirement Community, Twining Village provides numerous activities and programs while allowing residents a sense of security with its personal care accommodations and available nursing and rehabilitative care. Beverly Gowton, the director of community life, plans a variety of social programs and activities that challenge the mind and stimulate the imagination. Gowton encourages residents to join activities that spark their interest and she assists in starting new programs as needed or requested. Whether they are passionate about art, music, card games, travel, sporting events, or knitting, people will find something for everyone at Twining Village.

According to Gowton, Wii Bowling is a wonderful activity for the older person. “If you break down the actual activity, it provides for a wide variety of stimulation, socialization, eye-hand coordination, finger dexterity, body movement and, most importantly, it challenges the brain to think by remembering patterns. Many of the residents participate in tournaments with other local senior living communities. There is nothing wrong with a little friendly competition to get everyone up and moving.”

In fact, no matter what your age, you should participate in some type of leisure activity, advises Gowton. “As we mature, it is extremely important for us to continue to maintain those activities as much as possible. For seniors, enjoying life can help them delay the aging process and in some cases, slow down age-related illnesses. An active, busy lifestyle keeps your mind and body healthy for a longer time.”

Mrs. Macfarlan experienced several medical concerns before moving to Twining Village, but since then, she says, she couldn’t feel better. “I had several strokes and a hip replacement, but I am able to participate in so much here, nothing keeps me down. In fact, I want to start water aerobics.” Her activities roster also includes Canasta, Rummy Q, and crafts.

Along with Wii bowling, Mr. Macfarlan is in charge of movie night and plays shuffleboard.

“I believe that seniors should not sit around and watch television all day; it is important to get out and get active,” says Mrs. Macfarlan. “I try to encourage all of my neighbors to participate in the activities Twining has to offer. There’s something for everyone here. You just have to look for it and you will find it. And if someone has a new idea for an activity, they can make it happen.”