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Fun Activities for Seniors to Keep Active

People of all ages are always looking for things to do, and older adults have more time on their hands to explore new hobbies and generally have a good time. Activities for the elderly are no longer limited to the occasional bingo game (although that’s still fun). Seniors these days are interested in learning new skills and experiencing new things. So whether you are aging at home, a resident of an assisted living facility, or caring for a loved one, here are some great activity ideas for senior citizens of the 21st century.

Music and Dancing

Music feeds the soul, and dancing is a great physical activity that everyone can do. Even a senior with mobility issues or advanced dementia can enjoy an activity centered around music. In fact, music therapy recognizes the cognitive benefits of listening to music, and studies show that it can trigger feelings of happiness and contentment. So bring your senior to events such as a live concert, musical, or turn on the radio and chair dance. Typically, Senior living communities offer musical guests for entertainment as well.

Group Exercise Activities

Teacher and active senior women doing yoga class on chairsAs we get older, moving our bodies becomes more and more important. Taking daily walks with friends and family is a wonderful way to release stress and engage with the outside world. Group exercise classes like chair yoga, senior aerobics, or tai chi are a great way to let loose those endorphins and experience something new. If you want to step it up a notch, look for a senior sports league and join a soccer, basketball, or softball team. When you can combine exercise and socialization, you’re taking care of both your physical and mental health.

Reading and Writing

Take some time for yourself and have some fun with reading or creative writing. Book clubs let you share about what you’ve read, or you can just lose yourself in a book in solitude. Reading is a great elderly activity. If you love books but have trouble reading because of failing eyesight, audiobooks have exploded in popularity over the past 10 years, and the performances are fantastic. Maybe you’ve always wanted to try your hand at telling your own story. If so, grab a computer or a pen and paper and write it down! It doesn’t have to be a novel. You can write an essay, short story or even some letters! Whether you’re reading one or trying to write one, books help seniors escape real life for a little while and immerse themselves in another world.

Gardening

Whether it’s your own garden or a community garden at your assisted living community, gardening calms the soul and puts you back in touch with nature. Tending a garden takes time, and seniors can spend hours planting, weeding, and just enjoying the outdoors. It’s a great way to stay active. Plus, all that work is rewarded with a bounty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers!

Play Games

Group of Senior Men Playing Cards Game in PatioSometimes you just want to have fun, and games are the perfect elderly activity. There are so many different games to choose from. Putting together puzzles is a good game for your brain and can help maintain fine motor skills. Board games are an enjoyable activity to share with others, as are card games like poker, bridge, and rummy. Assisted living communities also have a variety of activities for seniors that include events such as bingo and trivia nights. Besides being enjoyable, your game of choice exercises your brain, helps with memory, and breaks up feelings of isolation. If you don’t feel like hanging out with a group, play a solitary adult game. Doing crossword puzzles or playing a game on your computer or tablet are good ways to relax and engage your mind.

Art Classes

Art classes cover a broad range of activities for seniors and include everything from painting to jewelry making to even cooking. Anything that piques your interest and promotes creativity is bound to give your cognitive health a boost. People of any age can learn to draw, cook good food, make a scrapbook or make things out of modeling clay. In addition, residents of different communities could come together to interact and learn new skills.

Senior Living Doesn’t Mean Being Bored

It doesn’t matter if you live at home or in one of the many senior living communities, seniors are demanding more out of their retirement years. They want to be busy, active, and engaged. There are many, many elderly activities available, no matter what challenges they may be facing. So come up with a list of ideas and enjoy living life to the fullest!

How Much Does Independent Living Cost?

Oftentimes, whenever independent living is brought up, cost becomes the focal point of attention. While this is certainly understandable, it should never prevent older adults from getting the care they need for quality of life.

In fact, many seniors who look into long-term independent living communities don’t think they’ll be able to afford it. Unfortunately, the costs and fees associated with senior living tend to overshadow the many benefits, services, and amenities that independent living communities offer.

To help you get a better understanding of retirement communities and all that they entail, join us as we discuss value versus price, the average cost, and more.

The Cost of Independent Living: Value vs. Price

Moving to an independent living community is a big step. After all, you or your loved one is likely leaving a residence of many years to go somewhere completely new. Not only are the surroundings different, but so are the neighbors and way of life.

As such, the costs of independent living aren’t necessarily cheap. As mentioned, this is often the deciding factor for many people. But you have to look at senior living communities in the same light as you would if you were buying a new home or vehicle.

You’re making an investment, and with that investment comes living costs that need to be accounted for. But more importantly, you’re paying for the peace of mind of safety and security.

Unlike assisted living communities, independent senior housing offers a greater sense of freedom. You won’t find ongoing skilled nursing care or memory care, for example. But you will find independence. And for many seniors, that’s the most valuable part of independent living communities.

What Does Independent Living Include?

You can look forward to having access to helpful services designed to make your life easier once you move into an independent living community.

Whereas assisted living programs and nursing homes are centered on continuing care, retirement community services provide assistance to active residents who are capable of handling most of their own personal care.

The residents in a senior living community can look forward to getting help with home maintenance, yard work, housekeeping, laundry, transportation, and more.

Dining Options and More

Although the care independent living provides doesn’t require residents to be given three meals a day like assisted living, many offer dining options. Seniors can pay for their meals in advance, as well, if they should choose to do so.

What’s more, the living options in independent living communities differ from those found in assisted living programs. Housing is typically in the form of apartments that come with convenient amenities found in other traditional apartment buildings.

These include on-site laundry, maintenance personnel, and the other aforementioned services, such as assistance with housekeeping or transportation.

Some communities even have game rooms, theatres, bars, and more. These kinds of amenities ensure that seniors have plenty to do on a monthly basis. In addition, many of the apartments are equipped with entrance ramps and other accessible conveniences.

Is Independent Living Covered By Medicare?

While Medicare can sometimes pay for certain short-term care expenses, it does not pay for the costs associated with independent living. Instead, there is a monthly fee that you will be responsible for in order to live in a retirement community.

What Is the Average Cost of Living in a Retirement Home?

Depending on where you live, living in a retirement home can cost between $1,500 and $4,000 per month. While this may seem like a lot, it is considerably less compared to the fees involved with living in an assisted living facility.

If your income isn’t enough to cover the required rent, you might consider looking into a CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Communities). CCRC is a fee-for-service program that helps aging seniors get into long-term living communities.

Whether paying rent or an entrance fee, CCRC may provide the solution you need to get the care you deserve.

Need Assistance?

If you need help finding the right living arrangement or have questions about the cost of independent living, we encourage you to contact us at Mary T., Inc. Our specialists are more than happy to aid you in your search. We’ll ensure that you get into the best place based on your age, health, and needs.

Should I Move Into a 55 and Over Community?

Have you been wondering if moving to a 55+ community is right for you? You’ve probably passed by them as you drive around town, or seen commercials for them on TV. Real estate agencies usually market 55+ communities to older adults that live an active lifestyle. But what does that mean exactly? There are pros and cons to all retirement communities, and the 55+ ones are no different. Today we give you a glimpse of what life is like inside an active adult community. What you can expect while living there and reasons why it may or may not be a good fit for you.

What Is a 55+ Community?

55+ communities are built with the idea of bringing people together who are at the same stage of their lives. In other words, people who are either retired or preparing to enter retirement within the next 10-15 years. In reality, 55+ communities aren’t any different than other neighborhoods or developments. The reason behind the restrictions is not to exclude those that are younger but because the amenities of the property are geared toward people in that age bracket. You are more likely to find tennis courts, golf courses, and a clubhouse as opposed to a basketball court and a playground.

While most of the time these developments set the minimum at 55 years or older, they can range anywhere from 50+ to 65+. 55 plus communities are simply designed for active residents interested in a low maintenance lifestyle. They want to enjoy access to amenities and features steps away from their homes.

Pros of Living in a 55+ Community

One of the biggest reasons people move to a +55 community is maintenance. Owning a home usually comes with a lot of work – raking, painting, mowing, and all the other wonders of keeping up the curb appeal of your house. 55+ communities usually take care of all exterior home maintenance required to keep your home clean and attractive. This frees up more of your time to enjoy leisure activities.

55+ active adult communities can be almost resort-like. They feature a lot of amenities that allow you to take part in activities without ever leaving your community. You’ll find pools, fitness centers, walking paths, tennis courts, and theater rooms. Some may even have their own restaurants or business centers. Often there are organized community events giving you the opportunity to make friends with others in your neighborhood. Because you’ll be living with others who may be empty-nesters with established careers, you may discover it’s easy to create strong bonds and friendships with the other members of your retirement community.

Last but not least, because these communities are designed for those 55 years of age or more, you get to enjoy a mostly kid-free environment. Of course, children and grandchildren are welcome to visit. But lack of kids living there full time usually means 55+ neighborhoods are peaceful, quiet places to live.

Cons of 55+ Retirement Communities

Some of the very things that make active adult communities attractive to some can also feel very restricting to others. For some, the lack of age diversity in a retirement community is not something they want to seek out. Living with people of varying ages can make one feel more a part of mainstream society as opposed to being sheltered with others in your age bracket. Also, if you are looking to buy a house as an investment for your family, be aware that age restrictions could make it difficult for your heirs to take over the house from you upon your passing. Most active adult communities require at least one resident of the home to be over the age of 55 in order to live within the community.

Another thing to consider is that all of those amenities that are included in active senior living communities are not free. The homeowner’s association usually pays for them. HOA fees for 55 and older communities can cost quite a bit of money. They also only increase with the number of amenities and services the communities offer. And most HOAs do not include any sort of assisted living or healthcare services. In fact, most age-qualified communities are considered single-family homes. They also do not offer any type of senior-specific medical care or assistance. HOAs can also be very restrictive and don’t allow much room for creativity. Be sure to investigate the rules of your HOA. You want to make sure that it doesn’t impact the lifestyle you wish to pursue.

What Does Active Community Mean?

An active adult community refers to an age-restricted neighborhood or development where anyone the age of 55 or over can live independent, active lives. The seniors who live here are looking for a location that offers easy ways to keep active and in shape. They don’t require care services, medical assistance, or help with daily activities. Seniors interested in fitness, playing golf, and living their later years to the fullest typically live in these types of communities. They enjoy being near to other neighbors. They also like being part of a robust senior living community while aging in place and enjoying their independence.

Is An Active Adult Community For You?

If you are looking to downsize from your home into a site that offers low-maintenance housing with a lot of amenities, one of these communities may be the perfect place for you to call home. Residents often find socialization a lot easier with yoga classes and walking clubs at their disposal. Life inside an active adult community can open up a lot of opportunities. Opportunities that you may not get to normally take advantage of. Just be sure that the site you choose has the features you are most interested in. And that the homeowners association doesn’t have rules you won’t find acceptable. Most people find that the benefits of living in an active adult community are just what they need in the years leading up to retirement.

Mary T has 55+ community locations in both Coon Rapids, MN and Casa Grande, AZ. If you’re looking independent living or a 55+ community in those areas, contact us for more information.

Apartments for Seniors

If you or a loved one have your heart set on aging in place, a senior living community might be the perfect place to do it. Downsizing into an apartment allows you to cash in on the equity you’ve built up in your house. Which also gives you the freedom to enjoy retirement. And apartments geared specifically for seniors offer an ideal environment for those who are still able to live independently but want to let go of the responsibility and maintenance that comes with owning a house.

What Are Senior Apartments

Senior apartments are the same as any other apartment, except that you must be over the age of 55 to live there. These communities are filled with all kinds of active adults who are in the same stage of their lives. Everyone is winding down and getting ready to enjoy the fruits of their labor. Senior apartments are not necessarily a retirement community. But certain things specific to Making sure the apartments are wheelchair accessible, for example. You may also find extra perks like laundry and housekeeping services, onsite fitness centers, and more. Mary T. has several senior living communities that offer tons of amenities that are included in your monthly rent payment.

Independent Living at Mary T.

Margaret Place, the premier independent senior living community, is named after the daughter of Rosa Camille Williams, who dedicated her life to caring for those in need. Rosa was a nurse who provided care in hospitals and homes in the early 1900s. She was the inspiration for her daughter, Margaret, and her granddaughter, Mary T, to provide services to improve the lives of others in the community.

Margaret Place is located in Coon Rapids, Minnesota only a short walk from Lions Coon Creek Park. It features one-and-two-bedroom apartments for adults aged 55 and over starting at $1,350/month as of the writing of this article. Each unit offers individual temperature control and an emergency response system. In addition, heat, hot water, trash, and recycling are also included with your monthly rent. You’ll find complimentary laundry facilities on each floor, a resident-controlled entrance, and have a 24-hour on-site resident manager at your disposal.

What Makes Margaret Place Special

Margaret Place is an active community with numerous scheduled activities. There are garden clubs, on-site church services, a multitude of wellness and fitness programs, and other things all hosted by our caring staff. You can choose from a number of group activities and outings. Or even just take a walk along Sand Creek Trail, which is within easy reach from your unit. You can also take advantage of the exercise room, or book one of our indoor or outdoor common areas for private gatherings with family and friends.

There are also other services you can add on for an additional fee. These include a regular lunch, housekeeping services, or access to our parking garage. We even have an on-site beauty shop so you can pamper yourself steps away from home. Also, if you need any ongoing medical care, our awesome Home Health staff is available through Mary T. Home Health to assist you in any way we can.

If you’d like more information about senior housing at Margaret Place, we are located at:

1555 118th Ln NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55448

763-754-2505

Living in 55+ Communities

What Is Independent Living?

Independent living provides living arrangements for seniors in an active adult community. Also referred to as 55 plus communities, independent living gives seniors a new home for adults with an active lifestyle.

In addition, most active adults find their new homes to be more compact in size, lessening the daily burden of maintenance and upkeep. What’s more, the floor plans are often designed in a way that allows the senior to move about more freely.

Designed for Active Seniors

One of the perks of being in a senior living community is that you or your loved one will have access to things like a nearby golf course, fitness center, and other amenities.

Retirement communities provide senior living arrangements that range from apartment living to single-family homes. Each community is different, so it’s important to speak with our trained staff to help you decide the best community for your needs.

The Best Housing for Your Needs

If you require assisted living care communities, we can help you find communities that offer this type of senior living arrangement. Depending on your lifestyle, you can find the perfect community for your needs with the most accommodating amenities.

Other Names for 55 Communities

  • Continuing care retirement community
  • 55 communities or 62+ communities
  • Senior apartment or housing
  • Age-restricted community
  • Active adult communities
  • Retirement communities
  • Senior community
  • Retirement home
  • Senior living

Types of 55 Communities

Now that you know the different names of 55 communities, let’s explore what you can expect from senior living homes and communities.

Low-Income

Homes for 55 and over can be available in subsidized complexes that cater to low-income seniors.

Senior Apartments

This housing option is restricted by age, ensuring that your neighbors are seniors, as well.

Retirement Homes

This is another form of restricted housing that is designated for seniors aged either 55 or 62 and up.

Continuing Care Communities

These retirement communities are designed to accommodate seniors with limited needs. Some of these communities also have on-site nursing available to ensure that you have the care you need for comfortable daily living.

55+ Communities Near Me

If you are interested in finding a 55 community, we encourage you to call our experienced staff at Mary T. We can help you and your loved one find a place that provides just what you need. Whether apartments with amenities or your own retirement home, we will work hard to make sure that you find the perfect living arrangement.

Let Us Help in Your Transition

Your care is important to us. Nearby retirement is easier than you may think. We invite you to give us a call so we can assist in placing you in the best housing for your needs. Mary T specializes in helping seniors transition to independent living. We can also help with your insurance to ensure that your loved one is placed in the best facility for their needs.

We understand the importance of finding independent living that accommodates your lifestyle. That’s why we offer comprehensive services that help locate the most suitable community in your city.

Care That Matters

At Mary T, we help you search for the right senior care facility in your city. You don’t have to go through this transition alone. Call our home care specialists so we can assist you in your search and help you get the care you deserve.

However, if you require care around the clock, assisted living communities may be a better fit for your needs. We will be happy to check your city for a facility that offers the services and care that you require.

If you are finding it to be increasingly difficult to care for yourself in your home, it may be time to consider a senior housing community. You might be surprised to find that moving into a community affords you new freedoms.

Call Today!

By breaking free of daily responsibilities, you will have less to worry about and can focus on new friendships and leisure.

Be sure to contact Mary T today so we can answer any questions you may have and help you get started on your journey to independent living. We look forward to serving you and hope to hear from you soon!