Can Independent Living Really Take Place in a Retirement Community?

Most senior citizens enjoy living independently – and nearly 90 percent prefer to live in their own homes for as long as they possibly can, according to a study by AARP. It makes sense since home is familiar and filled with memories, is where seniors are in charge, and is near friends and family.  However, as time goes by, living alone carries downsides that become harder to ignore: maintaining the home becomes difficult if not impossible, a greater sense of isolation or loneliness can occur (especially after a spouse dies), nutrition may begin to suffer, and the home itself may become unsafe where falls, burns or other injuries may take place. In recognition of all of this, The Saybrook at Haddam has developed a community that puts independence at the center of everything we do – providing an active, involved and, yet, private and respectful environment for retired seniors, those needing assisted living services and those facing memory-related illnesses.

Seniors and Happiness

The dictionary tells us that “happiness” is a state of well-being and contentment, and the Declaration of Independence tells us that the “pursuit of happiness” is one of our basic rights.  But, what is happiness exactly?  How do people – including senior citizens – achieve a life of happiness?  It is interesting that the concept means so many different things to different people at various stages of their lives. At The Saybrook at Haddam, we spend a great deal of time thinking about residents’ happiness because, more than anything, families want to know that their mom or dad, grandparent or other relative will be happy living here.

Turning a Worrisome Visit into Positive Change

Holidays bring families together, giving them an opportunity to share time baking, making, eating, drinking, reminiscing, laughing, and taking part in those wonderful traditions each family has. For relatives who live far away, the holidays are the best opportunity to really check in on the health and well-being of older family members.  In many cases, it is an eye-opener when people truly see how their elderly parents are really doing day-to-day.  At The Saybrook at Haddam, we receive an increase in requests for information during November, December and January from families who realize they need to address their parents’ changing care needs.

No Holiday Blues Allowed!

During December, nearly every moment seems to be filled with holiday music, Christmas cards, festive decorations, wishes of glad tidings, and general efforts to “spread good cheer.”  It’s a warm and wonderful time that we embrace and share with family and friends.  Some people, however, find themselves suffering from the “holiday blues.”  Anyone – including senior citizens – can feel a little sad around this time of year as they may be facing loneliness, loss of loved ones, financial burdens or other concerns.  Caregivers and family members should be on the lookout for “holiday blues” and take proactive steps to help seniors have a more enjoyable time of year.

Avoiding the Flu and Other Thoughts on Healthy Living

To prepare residents for the upcoming “flu season,” The Saybrook at Haddam hosted a free flu shot clinic as well as an informational session (hosted with Encompass Home Health) earlier this month.  Here are some key pointers from these events that our wellness team would like to share to help seniors (and everyone, really!) avoid the flu and build a healthy immune system this winter:

Life Should be a Party for Seniors!

Celebrations mark so many of the highlights of our lives, giving us fabulous memories to look back on and cherish.  From birthdays to graduations, weddings, anniversaries, religious events, holidays, and other important occasions, we love to gather together to enjoy good food, music, friendship, conversation and fun.  In our senior years, these celebrations become more important, more meaningful – and more anticipated.

Seniors Enjoying the Benefits of Music!

Leonardo Da Vinci once said, “Our soul is composed of harmony.” That could explain why people are so greatly affected by music at every stage of their lives.  At The Saybrook at Haddam, we agree entirely with Da Vinci and incorporate music into daily life and special events in our independent retirement and assisted living community as often as possible.  Residents enjoy listening to music, attending concerts, singing and even playing instruments – and reap all the related social and creative benefits.  Researchers are also learning music may provide some valuable benefits to our brains.

Food for Thought About Discussing Retirement Living

Oftentimes, Americans think of retirement as a financial (“savings”) issue – and it is.  However, as in any stage of life, the purpose of savings is to give you options – and for seniors, that means options in housing, lifestyle, healthcare, and overall quality of life.  Just like people benefit from saving for retirement early in life, people will benefit from thinking about where and how they would like to live during retirement as early as possible.

Taking a Closer Look at “Senior Solutions”

Many adult “children” find themselves involved in their parents’ retirement living planning.  Sometimes parents have saved money for retirement but haven’t given thought to where they want to live or how they will receive necessary support.  Other parents are a little behind with savings but have a solid idea of where they want to be and how they want to live.  Still others have done neither and suddenly are faced with an illness or other life change that is forcing them to think seriously about senior living options.

Art as Part of Our Community

When a person walks into The Saybrook at Haddam for the first time, he is often struck by the gracious beauty of the community.  The reception area and front parlor are dramatic with high ceilings, floor to ceiling windows, large oak staircase, and two beautiful fireplaces each featuring locally quarried stone handcrafted exclusively for the community.  The warmth and comfort of these areas are reflected in the rugs, draperies, furniture and, of course, the art.