If tidying the too-big family home or raking yet another pile of leaves has you dreaming of all those activities you’d rather be doing, it may be time to discover the benefits of retirement living.
Know that each retirement community is unique in philosophy, amenities and practical points such as location and cost, so it’s essential to consider what they offer and what you’ll enjoy.
“When you’re thinking about moving to a retirement community, consider what’s important to you,” suggests Rachel Kirkman, marketing specialist for Wesley retirement communities and health services.
“Some of our residents enjoy travelling, so they love being able to lock everything up and go; others like being close to family and knowing that as they age, they’ll continue to be happy here,” Kirkman says.
What will your retirement look like?
At Wesley, options range from independent living to assisted living and memory care, with various amenities for residents, including delicious dining and recreation. When you want stimulating, outside adventures, you’ll find those, too. In fact, plans are underway for a resident trip to New York!
Because exercising our minds is as important as exercising our bodies, another popular feature is Wesley’s continuing education program, Wesley U. Engaging courses, free to all and often taught by local college instructors, run the gamut from contemporary China to the effect of social media on U.S. politics. Learn something new, indulge a longstanding passion or engage in meaningful conversation.
“We have all kinds of options to help residents avoid that social isolation that can occur as we age,” Kirkman says.
Aging well, in place
2019 was a big year for Wesley. They celebrated an amazing 75 years, and they opened Wesley Bradley Park, began building Wesley at Tehaleh and continued redeveloping the Des Moines campus!
Founded in Des Moines, Wa. in 1944, the not-for-profit organization’s comprehensive network includes residential homes and apartments, assisted living, home health care, restorative therapies and skilled nursing care.
”Wesley has a full network of services for older adults,” Kirkman says. “As your needs change, you don’t have to move away; you can stay with Wesley.”
Today’s retirees also have more choices, from traditional studios to one-, two- or even three-bedroom apartments that can accommodate cherished belongings and guests. With Wesley’s signature Catered Living program, residents can select exactly the services they want.
“People want different things today and tomorrow, and we’re listening,” Kirkman says, pointing to the new Des Moines project.
When the redevelopment of Wesley Des Moines is completed, there will be a variety of recreational and fitness spaces, including a swimming pool, room for a massage practitioner and community spaces that local not-for-profits can reserve.
Free public events also welcome friends and neighbors, from monthly “Discover Luncheons,” a way to learn all about life at Wesley, to the Jan. 29 presentation A Sellers Journey: From Prep to Close, exploring issues related to real estate and home sales.
“It’s our way of giving back and being part of the greater community,” Kirkman explains.
To learn more about life at a Wesley community, visit WesleyChoice.org.
