Moving from your home to a senior living community can be an exciting new adventure. However, even the most adventurous person might feel apprehensive about making a significant life change. Leaving behind a home you love is difficult. Downsizing often means letting go of possessions that you no longer need or can accommodate in a smaller space. It is not uncommon to feel a sense of loss. You may wonder, “How will my life change?”
At RosePointe we know that a move is a big change. We understand the range of emotions you feel when making a move to senior housing. We value you and your well-being and are here to provide you with the opportunities to live your best life. With over 30 years of experience as Resident Services Director, I have seen our residents not only adapt to a new environment but thrive and grow as they find purpose, pursue their passions and connect with others.
PURPOSE.
After retiring from her career as a Counseling Psychologist and moving with her husband to RosePointe, Char wanted her life to remain as productive as possible. She believes “We all have choices, big choices, and little ones”. She chooses to find time to connect with people in areas that she finds fulfillment. With her skills in leading small groups and love of writing and reading, she helped organize a Women’s Writing Group. With her desire to stimulate thinking in others, Char leads a bi-monthly TED Talks discussion. Even during our time of COVID-19 Stay at Home, she participates in ZOOM Book Club and Knitting Group meetings.
How can you maintain purpose and meaning in your new environment? How can you use your time, talents, and experience to live your life to the fullest? What is most important to you?
Use your body to the best of its ability. Exercise, spending time outdoors and healthy eating are good daily habits.
Keep your brain as active as your body. Take advantage of educational programs and activities like Great Decisions, TED Talks, or group games.
Work on something new each day. It will not only add meaning and joy to your life but can also help maintain your brain health.
Get involved. Discover new ways to stay active and engaged by joining a group or attending a class.
Give to others. The meaning and purpose you find in helping others will enrich your life. Volunteers are always needed and appreciated.
Pass on your knowledge and skills. Share your suggestions and help make them happen.
PASSION.
Don and Joyce have always loved music. In their early retirement years, Joyce learned to play the autoharp and joined Don on his guitar to play and sing their favorite old-time tunes. Their duo soon became a trio and eventually, they formed the Porch Pickers Band, nearly 12 years ago. With their move to RosePointe, they certainly couldn’t leave their passion behind. Joining the RosePointe Singers was an obvious choice. But for them, the real joy is sharing their music. When they see toes tapping and hear others singing along, they know they are making people happier, and “we get as much joy in return”. They absolutely brought joy with their “social distanced” concert during our Stay at Home time!
What is your passion? Interests, like a love of music, reading, gardening, or art can continue wherever you live. Life in a senior community offers many new opportunities to pursue your passions.
Feed your passion. A monthly calendar offers a wide range of activities to keep you active and engaged, whatever your interests.
Join a group. Book Club, Shakespeare Society, Garden Club, and our RosePointe Singers are a few that meet either weekly or monthly.
Share your passion. Use your skills and experiences to enrich the life of the community.
PEOPLE.
Though you would never guess, Susan sees herself as an introvert. When she initially moved to RosePointe she wondered “how will I fit in?”. With a desire to meet others and to feel connected, she set aside her shyness and set out to get to know her fellow residents. RosePointe’s morning coffee circle proved to be a wonderful way to connect with others. During this informal gathering time, a small group of residents shares their stories and their insights. You can feel the “collective joy of community”. With everyone she meets, Susan looks for “the divine spark within”, knowing that everyone wants to feel accepted and valued. As head of the “Welcome Committee”, she helps make that happen. Building connections through common interests led her to form our Shakespeare Society. Sharing and learning from others in this and other small groups brings great satisfaction and a vital sense of belonging.
Perhaps the most important benefit of living in a Senior Housing Community is human connection. Studies have linked social isolation and loneliness to higher risks for a range of physical and mental health issues, including heart disease, cognitive decline, and depression. Apartment living gives older adults a multitude of opportunities to socialize with others. Whether you are an extrovert who thrives on being with people and is energized by social interaction, or an introvert who prefers few but intimate friendships, connecting with others will lead to optimal health and happiness.
Connect regularly with family and old friends. Nurture the relationships that feed your soul.
Spend time with at least one person every day. Regular face-to-face contact helps ward off isolation, loneliness, depression.
Make new friends. Senior housing can provide a wonderful sense of belonging as you develop new relationships.
Connect with neighbors that share the same interests. People who engage in meaningful, productive activities with others tend to maintain their well-being and even live longer.
Contact RosePointe Today
Yes, life CAN be an exciting new adventure if you let it. Find out how you can enrich your life while continuing to do the things you love at RosePointe. Please contact us at 651-639-1000 or email at jmazie@pointesliving.com to learn more or to schedule a tour.