By Sarah
RichardEach May, Older Americans Month is
observed to recognize the older adults in our lives. The 2025 theme, Flip the
Script on Aging, focuses on transforming the way society perceives, talks
about and approaches aging. This theme encourages Americans to
challenge stereotypes and dispel misconceptions about the older generation,
while also shining a light on the opportunities for connections, exploration
and purpose that we discover as we age.Aging is a beautiful thing. With
each day and each moment, you obtain a wealth of knowledge that can only come
from a life of lived experiences. The thrill of life doesnt have to stop once
you transition to a resort-style senior living community. In fact, its the
perfect time for life to become more exciting.Transitioning into a senior living
community is a unique period in your life youre setting sail on a new way of
living and seeking new, enriching experiences. With a different way of living
comes a wave of fresh opportunities a chance to try that hobby you've never
had the time to explore, to make a new friend or to unlock hidden
passions. Moving into a new community is a
perfect opportunity for you to step out of your comfort zone alongside a
community of like-minded individuals. When the time is right, entering a
resort-style senior living community poses several benefits for retirees seeking
a new experience. In a life plan community, you have
the freedom to adopt a new daily routine, fall in love with a new hobby and
discover lifelong friendships. Most of all, making the move to a life plan
community ensures that youre taking the right steps to provide yourself with a
new quality of life.What is a life plan community?Life plan communities, also known as
continuing care retirement communities, are a form of senior living that offer
residents the full continuum of care. Life plan communities include independent
living, assisted living, memory support and skilled nursing, but older adults
can enter a life plan community at any stage and transition to a different
level as their needs shift.
Independent
living is for retirees who do not require health services but no longer want to
bear the burden of home ownership and upkeep, planning the grocery
list every day, or the many other things that keep you from spending time doing
what you enjoy. Assisted living is for adults who require
help with daily activities, such as dressing or bathing, but also desire the
independence and amenities of a life plan community. Memory support is a safe and controlled
environment designed to care for adults experiencing cognitive decline. Skilled nursing is for adults recovering from
an illness or procedure, or those with chronic conditions that require daily
attention.Through independence and enriching
lifestyles, life plan communities work to break the stigma that often surrounds
the concept of senior living communities and the outdated stereotype of a
nursing home. Life plan communities are an entirely new way of life, from the
activities and events to the people you meet and experiences you gain. Opportunity for connectionSenior living professionals
understand that older adults can suffer from depression and anxiety as they
age. According to the federal Centers for Disease Control, about 4% of adults
aged 70 and over have depression. To combat this issue, life plan communities
curate robust activity calendars that encourage residents to get out, have fun,
and make connections.Socialization leads to increased
mental and physical health, which is particularly important for older adults.
Spending time with other people, even through a
phone call or video conference, promotes sharper memory skills, lowers stress
and reduces risk of chronic illnesses, while also providing a sense of purpose.
Gulf Coast Village, Cape Corals
only life plan community, encourages new residents to attend events so they can
meet new people and become more engaged with their new home. Oftentimes,
residents will form their own friend group and will continue to participate in
activities together in the months and years ahead. Taking the extra step toward
socialization in a new environment can be a rewarding experience, leading to
increased mental wellness and enjoyed experiences. Regardless of size, life
plan communities make socialization convenient for older adults to spend time
with one another through a tight-knit environment, robust activities and
planned events.Retirement isnt the end of the
enriching life youve always lived its the beginning of a new chapter filled
with fresh opportunities and meaningful experiences. At Gulf Coast Village, residents are
encouraged to keep pursuing their unique hobbies and share the joy with their
neighbors. Residents are invited to collaborate to create their own clubs and
activities, building connections with neighbors and friends.Some residents teach art classes,
some teach in the woodshop, while others volunteer part-time in our on-campus
thrift store or even join a committee.In a life plan community, youre
never alone. You are surrounded by fellow retirees also navigating lifes
journey.About the authorSarah Richard is the executive
director of Gulf Coast Village. To learn more, visit GulfCoastVillage.org
or call 239-510-8712.
