retirement community

Over the holidays, with more time spent together, some families begin discussing the idea of senior living communities. Though Mom or Dad could raise the issue, it’s more likely prompted by adult children who notice changes in their parents. (See our recent blog post on these “tough conversations.”) Older parents can be reluctant to consider … Continue reading “The best senior living communities shatter the myths (check us out and see)”

“Oh, there’s no place like home for the holidays, Cause no matter how far away you roam, If you want to be happy in a million ways, For the holidays you can’t beat home sweet home!”* Most of us would agree with this sentiment so warmly expressed by Pennsylvania native son and crooner Perry Como. … Continue reading “Tough conversations at the holidays can lead to personal care decisions”

Walking through a retirement community, the sight of children shouldn’t be as rare as a rose in winter. But that’s the reality at many places. While retirement communities are meant to be havens of comfort and security, they shouldn’t become places of isolation where residents lose contact with younger people. That’s why intergenerational programs are … Continue reading “Intergenerational activities enliven and entertain seniors at retirement communities”

Adult siblings don’t always share the same ideas on what’s best for aging parents. One may think Mom is doing OK at home and just needs a little help, while another may want her to consider a retirement community. Their different opinions are understandable, but what’s most important is working together for Mom’s best interests. … Continue reading “Siblings should be united when considering parents’ senior living options”

Country Meadows is observing National Assisted Living Week, Sept. 9-15, by “capturing the connection” between our assisted living/personal care residents and our caregivers who support these seniors in meeting their daily needs. At all 11 of our retirement communities, our co-workers will be taking photos depicting the special relationship between our residents and our care … Continue reading “Assisted living and personal care homes support seniors in daily activities”

Personal decisions such as moving to a retirement community depend on many factors, varying from person to person and family to family. Still, we see several common situations that spark such a move. So, what are the main factors that prompt older persons and their families to start choosing a retirement community? Health changes A … Continue reading “What motivates seniors to begin choosing a retirement community?”

The company of furry friends can have therapeutic benefits for seniors living in pet-friendly senior apartments. Increasingly, it’s a pleasure that seniors consider when choosing a retirement community. We know that caring for a pet gives many seniors a sense of purpose and assists them in feeling better overall. In fact, studies show pets can … Continue reading “Older adults find joy and companionship in pet-friendly senior apartments”

After seniors, along with their families, have completed the process of choosing a retirement community, they will need support to make the transition as smooth and stress-free as possible. For while the selection of a community may provide relief, the move and adjustment to a new lifestyle can be challenging for some seniors. But like … Continue reading “What to expect when you move to a retirement community”

This year my father, former Pennsylvania Governor George M. Leader, would have turned 100 years old. I wish he had lived to reach this milestone as yet one more accomplishment. He had contributed so much during his life as a husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, naval officer, poultry farmer, state senator, governor, health care entrepreneur and … Continue reading “Thank you, Dad.”

What could be easier than retirement? You stop working and wake up every day free to do what you want, when you want and with whomever you choose. It sounds like paradise. But actually, a fulfilling retirement doesn’t just happen. It requires strategy and planning—and not just financial, though we certainly hope that’s a vital … Continue reading “A relaxing retirement requires lifestyle planning, decision-making”

Q: What is the key factor in the happiness and comfort of seniors residing at the best retirement communities? A: The quality of the staff. Words from families about staff members at our senior communities From co-workers in health care and therapy services to those in food services and maintenance, they arrive each day with … Continue reading “Co-workers at the best retirement communities are driven by making a difference”

 From the time we’re children, most of us enjoy competing with others in games, contests and sporting events. We may gravitate away from competition as we get older, but many seniors continue to enjoy golf outings or card games with friends. Most competition is physically and psychologically healthy because it motivates us to perform at … Continue reading “Social activities at top retirement communities offer friendly competition and fun”

After moving to a retirement community, many people are surprised by just how much takes place there on any given day. They find daily opportunities awaiting them that were never available before. New friendships, hobbies and activities give their senior years new meaning and purpose. “Getting older is fine,” said American writer John Byrne. “There … Continue reading “Tour bus trips offer entertainment and fellowship at active senior living communities”

The typical retiree today isn’t content to simply live longer—he or she wants to age well. Many seniors are doing exactly that by remaining involved in favorite activities for as long as they can. Some enhance the quality of senior living by embracing creative arts. These might be activities they have enjoyed for years or … Continue reading “Creative arts benefit body, mind and spirit at retirement communities”

An Irish saying proclaims, “There are only two kinds of people in the world, the Irish and those who wish they were.” That statement of pride contains more than a grain of truth, at least on March 17, when the Irish and non-Irish alike celebrate with the wearing of green, festive gatherings and maybe a … Continue reading “St. Patrick’s Day is a reason for all to celebrate at senior living communities”

Despite common belief to the contrary, retirees need as much sleep as younger adults. Research shows that our sleep needs remain constant throughout adulthood, according to the National Sleep Foundation, which has established March 11-17, 2018 as National Sleep Awareness Week.  However, it’s true that older persons often get less sleep or experience insomnia. Anxiety, … Continue reading “Sleep apnea in the senior living years should be diagnosed and treated”

Moving to a retirement community is a major life decision, with many lifestyle and financial implications. So, prospective residents should ask communities a lot of questions before deciding on the one that’s right for them. Just as people are different, with individual needs, likes and dislikes, so are retirement communities, offering a range of services … Continue reading “Choosing a retirement community? If so, ask the right questions”

In the middle of winter, it’s nice to warm our hearts with a day that celebrates love and friendship. Though we tend to think of Valentine’s Day as one of romance, it began as a day to honor saints. The romantic association came later, and while it remains the holiday’s focus, we now recognize love … Continue reading “Seniors anticipate celebrating love and friendship on Valentine’s Day”

Many Americans don’t have an accurate image of older adults or the experience of senior living. They may readily accept fictional portrayals of seniors on TV or in movies as fact. Or, maybe they have known just a few older persons and base their perceptions on those alone. In reality, retirees today are defying stereotypes … Continue reading “Seven myths about modern retirees and the senior living experience”

If you have decided that retirement community living could meet your needs or those of a loved one, you have several options to consider. You may even feel a bit overwhelmed by your choices and concerned about making the right one. Seeking recommendations from friends or relatives is fine, but your priorities may be different … Continue reading “What should you look for in a retirement community?”