Natalie Tommy, VP Marketing, Nautical Lands Group of Companies & Wellings

March 24, 2024March 24, 2024

Choose a 55+ Adult Lifestyle Community That Fits Your Lifestyle

Choosing an adult lifestyle community is a significant decision that goes beyond the physical amenities.

It involves considering the overall feel and atmosphere of the community and whether or not they align with your vision for your future.

A community will not be all things to all people, so knowing its most important aspects is essential for thriving.

We always suggest working on this before you visit any communities and understanding through conversation with us or the community leasing specialist; more may be added to your list!

We hope you will seek a community that isn’t just a collection of homes or apartments but a living, breathing entity fostering belonging and connection.

Here are some key factors we suggest you consider:

Sense of Community:

Let’s face it: if you are considering a community setting, most likely it’s because you want more connection with a diverse group of people in a similar life stage. We often hear, “My neighbours get me.” This cultivates a feeling of togetherness; knowing that you are not alone and that the people you are meeting also share a sense of life and wisdom about them can be comforting.

Social Activities: Look for a community that offers a variety of social activities and events and whether or not you can do member-led activities of your own. This fosters a sense of belonging and encourages residents to connect while recognizing that everyone brings a hobby they may want to share with the community.

Community Spaces: Check for communal areas like clubhouses, lounges, or activity spaces where residents can gather and interact. Are they clean and large enough for the community you are considering, and would you be proud to have a friend join you?

Wellness and Health Focus:

Fitness Facilities: Assess the availability and quality of fitness facilities or opportunities within the community, such as gyms, walking paths, or recreational areas. Check if there are classes and if they are available for your fitness level.

Health Services: Consider the proximity to healthcare facilities and the availability of health services within or near the community.

Accessibility and Safety:

Ease of Navigation: Ensure the community is designed with accessibility, elevators, and well-maintained pathways for easy navigation. Can you access the common spaces and use your suite fully if you have a walker?

Safety Measures: Inquire about safety features such as security systems, well-lit areas, and emergency response protocols.

Lifestyle Options:

Housing Options: Look for a community offering plenty of different designs that appeal to singles & couples. This will help create a more diverse community dynamic.

Cultural and Recreational Opportunities: Consider the availability of cultural and recreational activities that align with your interests and hobbies.

Surrounding Environment:

Natural Elements: Assess the incorporation of natural elements like green spaces, parks, or water features that contribute to a peaceful and aesthetically pleasing environment.

Proximity to Amenities: Consider the convenience of nearby amenities such as shopping centers, restaurants, and cultural venues. In smaller towns, are the roads easily navigated, and how far are the nearest services?

Engagement and Inclusivity:

Community Engagement Programs: Inquire about programs encouraging resident involvement and community engagement. Our Wellings programming encourages many member-led activities, as they are encouraged to be extensions of their lifestyle goals.

Inclusivity: Ensure the community embraces diversity and inclusivity, creating an environment where all residents feel welcome.

Management and Services:

Professional Management: Evaluate the professionalism of community management. Wellings managers are focused on maintaining their communities, addressing any concerns promptly, participating in activities, and bringing fun to the community.

Maintenance and Services: Consider the quality of maintenance services and the availability of convenient services for residents.

Feedback from Residents:

Talk to Current Residents: Speak to current residents to get firsthand insights into their experiences and the overall feel of the community. Ask if you can join the community for supper to understand the food.

Future Planning:

Long-Term Sustainability: No one wants to move more than necessary. Assess the community’s plans for the future, ensuring they are well-maintained and have a vision for long-term sustainability.

By carefully considering these factors, you can better understand the overall feel of an adult lifestyle community and determine whether it aligns with your preferences and lifestyle goals now and in the future.

Embarking on the journey to choose an adult lifestyle community is like navigating the pages of a captivating novel—one where each chapter unfolds a unique aspect of what could become your next home.

We would proudly introduce you to our resident ambassadors and lead you through our beautiful Wellings Communities.

The choice is yours, and we would love to help you make an informed decision and gather whatever facts you need to do just that.

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by Natalie Tommy, VP Marketing, Nautical Lands Group of Companies & Wellings

January 30, 2024January 31, 2024

Free Your Spirit and Fill Your Soul

By: Natalie Tommy, with Sandy Sharkey

Deciding on artwork for our Wellings Communities is never easy, but we knew it had to capture the wild spirits and echo the lives of the people who would live with us.

Sandy Sharkey, an Ottawa photographer, captures these sentiments in almost every way.

Sandy is a visionary equine photographer based in the heart of Ottawa.

With a passion for capturing the majestic beauty and intimate connection between nature, humans, and horses, Sandy has carved a niche for herself as a trailblazer in the world of equine photography, with a specialty in wild horses.

Her photos don’t just freeze moments; they tell stories of the profound bond shared between the world and horses.

Her artistry goes beyond the conventional, delving into the rich tapestry of emotions, strength, and grace inherent in the equine world.

With a phone call and the big goal of bringing sentiments of freedom, friendship, strength, beauty, youthful exuberance, and playfulness to the walls of Wellings, we went to work.

The wild horses we selected symbolize various positive qualities, such as strength, freedom, and companionship.

The imagery of horses can evoke positive emotions and associations, contributing to a sense of well-being and contentment.

The collection I selected varies from bold, feisty stallions to what appears to be a community celebrating being free.

Each one is unique and special.

You are welcome to view the collection in person at the Wellings of Stittsville; in the meantime, enjoy a few of our favorites here.

Wild Horses in a Snowstorm

Sandy Sharkey

There are spectacular wild horses living in the Rocky Mountain foothills of Alberta. Many people don’t know that the wild horses thrive and survive in this mountain setting just two hours north of Calgary. I was on my own one day, photographing a gorgeous herd when a snowstorm appeared. Of course I had to get one last shot before I retreated down the mountain. Such an honour to spend time with these wild horses existing in the raw beauty that is mother nature.

Power and Glory

Sandy Sharkey

The iconic white horses of the Camargue region of southern France are revered for their power and strength. Considered to be one of the oldest breeds of horses in the world, these horses have lived wild in the marshes and wetlands of the Rhone delta for centuries. To capture this shot, I knew I had to trust the horses galloping towards me. I was knee-deep in mud but didn’t budge as I felt their power just a few feet from me. Was I splattered with mud and salt water? Yep! Would I do it all over again? Absolutely.

Wild Mustangs in the Dust

Sandy Sharkey

Wild mustangs have lived in many parts of the American southwest for centuries. From the mountains of Montana to the forests of northern Arizona and the Nevada desert, wild mustangs are true survivors and the ultimate symbol of freedom. But they are no match for the heavy hand of mankind. Thousands of mustangs are removed from public lands each year and placed in holding facilities with an uncertain future. But this photo represents what can happen when people show compassion. This is a once-captured wild herd that has been reunited with it’s family band, and is again running as free as the wind. Photographed at Return to Freedom Wild Horse Sanctuary in Lompoc California.

Dream Boy

Sandy Sharkey

Darkness was descending in the marshes of the Camargue region of southern France. I had spent the day photographing the iconic white horses that have lived in this area for centuries. I was beginning to pack up my camera gear when I turned around and saw this breathtaking stallion watching me with curiosity. There is always something special about making a connection with an animal, even for just a fleeting moment.

The Wild Ones

Sandy Sharkey

Just like humans, wild horses form close knit bonds. They can often be seen snuggled up together, nudging and grooming each other. The wild horses of Apache-Sitgreaves National US Forest in northern Arizona live amongst the tall pines and to encounter them in their forest home is nothing less than magical. Standing quite a distance away, I remained still and savoured this sweet moment between three wild ones.

On the Dunes

Sandy Sharkey

Located 300 kilometres east of Halifax in the Atlantic Ocean, Sable Island National Park Preserve is home to approximately 500 wild horses. Artists, authors, filmmakers and adventurers alike have been drawn to these legendary horses since the 18th Century. The wild horses of Sable Island are adored, respected, and enjoy full protection from the Canadian government. They are true survivors, adept at handling challenging conditions. I photographed these two stallions climbing a grassy sand dune to quench their thirst at a nearby freshwater pond.

The Stand Off

Sandy Sharkey

I have traveled around the world to photograph wild horses and have observed distinct differences in the horse herds from one geographical region to the next. But one thing remains a constant: boys will be boys. In the hierarchy of wild horse family bands, stallions for the most part co-exist with each other….until one stallion decides that HE deserves to be the band leader. A wild stallion skirmish doesn’t usually last long, but it always ends with a clear winner. Photographed in the Onaqui Mountain range of Utah’s Great Basin Desert.

Love Bite

Sandy Sharkey

If you spend a lot of time around horses, you get a window into their world. It is your reward for patience. Once you have the horse’s trust, special moments unfold. I was photographing the iconic white horses of the Camargue region in southern France when this stallion approached a mare and gave her a ‘love bite’. She obviously liked it, because they became inseparable….and I was fortunate to capture a sweet moment between a newly bonded couple.

Reflections of Sable Island

Sandy Sharkey

There is nothing quite like Canada’s remote Sable Island. Located 300 kilometres from Halifax in the Atlantic Ocean, Sable Island is home to the largest breeding population of grey seals and several species of seabirds. But the real stars of Sable Island are the free-spirited wild horses that have survived here since the 1700’s. With the swells of the Atlantic Ocean crashing to the shore behind them, this beautiful trio approached a peaceful inlet and created a beautiful reflection. I was fortunate to capture this magical moment.

Close

Sandy Sharkey

Is it any wonder that the wild horses of Sable Island are so adored- not only by Canadians from coast to coast, but by horse lovers around the world. With a very limited number of visitors each year, Sable Island remains a pristine natural environment that offers everything the horses need to survive: vegetation, freshwater ponds, and tall dunes for shelter. The wild horses are fully protected. As always, it is important to keep our distance from the wild horses and to respect the fact that they have virtually no interaction with humans. I photographed this intimate moment from a distance of 30 metres. A gorgeous pair of horses living wild and free on Canada’s remote Sable Island.

Together

Sandy Sharkey

As a wild horse photographer, my goal is to capture a moment in time. Whether it’s the high drama between two wild stallions, the first steps taken by a newborn wobbly foal, or the intimate connections that exist in wild horse family bands…I strongly feel that photography has the power to educate, inform, and enlighten. When we learn about the sentient lives of animals and see that their world is no different from ours, we are encouraged to add our voices for their protection. In 2010, more than 1700 wild horses were rounded up, separated and removed from the only home they ever knew: the wilderness in Nevada’s Calico Mountains. But humanity shone a light and the surviving wild horses were rescued by ‘Return to Freedom’ Wild Horse Sanctuary in Lompoc California. Safe from harm, these two wild horses were among those re-united. It was an honour to capture this moment.

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by Natalie Tommy, VP Marketing, Nautical Lands Group of Companies & Wellings

September 1, 2023September 1, 2023

Unlocking the Epic Life: Active Living vs. Other Options for the 55+ Community

As we gracefully age, the concept of ‘home’ evolves. It’s no longer just a place to rest; it becomes a sanctuary of health, wellness, and empowerment. At Wellings, we understand that our 55+ community desires more than just a roof over their heads. They aspire for an epic life — full of opportunities, diverse activities, and minimal responsibilities. But how does this differ from other arrangements like long-term care or retirement living with respect? Let’s dive in.

What is the Active Living Concept?

Peter Attia, MD, and longevity expert says, “Exercise can improve insulin sensitivity, boost metabolism, cardiovascular health, enhance cognitive function, and contribute to overall well-being.”

You are independent, and you want to stay that way. You want to avoid living in retirement, where health care becomes a daily routine. Well, there is an alternative. Active living prioritizes physical activity as part of your daily routine, honoring your goal to keep your mobility and health for as long as possible. The goal is to get people moving more often. Exercise, nutrition, sleep, and mental health are keys to living a well-rounded and healthy lifestyle as we age, according to Dr. Attia. Listening to the goals of our members ( seniors) over 55 years of age has inspired us to create an environment that encourages an active way of life regardless of the mobility levels within the community. As a result, we see fitness levels improve, more social interaction, and better eating habits. Keeping active starts with a goal for your future activity needs. If you want to be able to walk up a hill, carry a grandchild, get in and out of a car, or take a trip somewhere, you need to train for it, and there is always time to start.

What is an Example of Active Living?

Imagine starting your day with a brisk walk. You feel your heartbeat, the fresh air on your face. You feel alive. 30 minutes of fast activity is all you need to improve your cardiovascular health and mood daily. You may only sometimes recognize active living as deliberate, but even parking at the furthest end of the parking lot and walking to the front door naturally increases your activity level. At Wellings, we always look for ways our members can get more active without considering additional exercise. Gardening, yoga, stretching, dancing, lawn bowling, and even billiards keep your blood flowing, improve your balance and exercise the mind. Get active and live life the way you want to.

What is the Definition of Healthy Active Living?

Healthy active living is a lifestyle choice that combines regular physical activity, a balanced nutritious diet, sufficient sleep, stress management, and maintaining social connections outside your Family. It’s a holistic approach to life that has the potential to significantly improve quality of life, especially as we age and for our 55+ community.

What are the ten benefits of an Active Lifestyle?

Peter Attia, MD and author of Outlive, The Science and Art of Longevity, often emphasizes the numerous benefits of an active lifestyle. In his world, prevention is the focus rather than waiting until you need to see a Dr. to treat a disease or ailment. If you have healthy lifestyle goals for aging, an active, healthy lifestyle must be a priority. Most of us want to live a long, healthy life, but to do this, we need to start paying attention to our habits and lifestyle. Does it support our long-term goals, and if not, what can we change now to give us the best chance for a long, healthy way of life? This means that on top of regular exercise, optimizing your good food intake, breathing in the fresh air, de-stressing life, and working hard to ensure your muscles stay strong become a priority. He emphasizes there is always time to start.

Some benefits include:

1. Improved Physical Health: Reduces the risk of chronic diseases and better management of blood sugars.

2. Enhances Mental Health: Boosts mood and alleviates some symptoms of depression.

3. Promotes Social Interaction: Decreases sense of isolation, betters mood, and provides more opportunities to meet and connect with people.

4. Boosts Immunity: Exercise helps improve bodily functions, including the immune system.

5. Enhances Mobility: It keeps your body flexible, maintains balance, reduces the effects of arthritis, and better equips us to handle challenging terrain.

6. Increases Longevity: A healthy lifestyle is directly proportional to a longer life expectancy.

7. Improves Sleep: Physical activities help you reduce stress, fall asleep faster, and make your sleep more profound as long as you raise your heartbeats!

8. Sharpens the Mind: Aids in keeping your cognitive function sharper as exercise and nutrition take center stage,

9. Fosters Independence: Physical well-being allows you to be more self-reliant and independent, especially as we age.

10. Elevates Quality of Life: You’re likely to enjoy life more when you’re physically active and socially engaged.

Active Living vs. Independent Living vs. Long-term Care

Active Living (Wellings): A community inspired by energetic and vibrant 55-plus adults. Usually, health care is not offered, and activities may be community-led. Amenities vary by location but typically include a full kitchen and in-suite laundry.

Independent and Assisted Living: Traditional retirement living offers various care levels, including assisted and memory care. It addresses many levels of care that may require qualified healthcare professionals in its administration. It often comes with three daily meals, housekeeping, and organized activities.

Long-term Care: For those requiring advanced medical care and daily assistance beyond what a traditional retirement home can provide.

How Do You Know What You Need?

If you aren’t sure what the differences are in the various living options for seniors, it is essential to do some research. Get familiar with the industry jargon such as independent vs. assisted living, 55 plus living, memory care, and long-term care. Your doctor and family can help you determine what care you may require in the coming years. Some people are on the cusp of needing some daily care and prefer to choose 55 plus living and accessing their local care association to visit the residence as required, such as a blood pressure check once a month or diabetic foot care. These independent seniors can cook for themselves, may still drive, and can carry on mostly without supervision. Others realize that they don’t want to cook and need minimal care now but don’t want to entertain the idea of moving again shortly and may choose a traditional retirement home. Remember that selecting a conventional retirement home when you don’t truly need care usually results in aging more quickly and paying for health care services you won’t use. Fifty-five plus communities offer activities and meals with a more vibrant and active feel. We see various mobility and mental acuity levels, but people connect with busy people. These communities, such as Wellings, are perfect for transitioning between your large family home and a traditional retirement home with care.

Any good General Manager or community leasing representative should be able to outline the differences and ask the right questions to determine the best fit for you regardless of what community you choose.

You don’t need external care daily?

Active Living at Wellings may be the perfect fit if you don’t require daily medical assistance.

Choosing the right community is crucial for your well-being, and we encourage you to research. Make a list of your goals for yourself as you age. Is the new home you are considering going to get you closer to your goals? If you want to be more social or less isolated, look at the social programs offered. If you’re going to stay active, look for fitness programs, walking trails, or nearby paths.

Visit your top 3 choices. Is everything scheduled, or are you free to choose when and where you eat, when you come and go, and how many visitors you can have? We recommend you watch how the staff interacts, test the food, participate in the activities, and even do a trial stay. You can visit as often as needed to make yourself more comfortable with your final choice. At Wellings, we provide you with the best setting to live an active and fruitful life, where every day is an adventure, an opportunity for continued growth, renewal, and re-energizing. Pick up hobbies you loved and never had time for, and connect with people who love living in retirement and are happy to share their life stories when asked. Fifty-five-plus communities are usually less expensive than traditional retirement homes and are a good choice for adults 55-plus who don’t need care but want to live maintenance-free and be more social.

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by Natalie Tommy, VP Marketing, Nautical Lands Group of Companies & Wellings

March 26, 2023March 26, 2023

The Swedish Art of Aging Exuberantly: Celebrating the Life of Margareta Magnusson with Maria Shriver

Celebrating her life in her 80’s, and taking a frank look at it infused with humour creates a secret sauce for her version of the good life.

I think we can all agree, embracing your age and living with a positive mindset adds so much to life. I am blessed to have a front row seat to this at Wellings.

Friends lifting each other up, and quick tour around the community on an electric bike, a song or two on the Karaoke machine and let’s not forget the baking! There’s always baking.

In what ways do you bring the sparkle to your day and those people who light you up?

Click here to read the article.

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by Natalie Tommy, VP Marketing, Nautical Lands Group of Companies & Wellings

February 12, 2023February 12, 2023

Sugar, Spice, and Everything Nice: Finding Comfort in Homemade Goodies this February

No matter how old I am, how much the wiser I get, around the consumption of sugar, I still can’t resist a little something now and again. I think of the month of February as the month of comfort food, and that includes goodies as well.

Simple guilty pleasures that are easy to make and give out to friends and neighbours. It makes me smile and feel good! A win for sure.

Enjoy the warmth of giving and the satisfaction of the flavours.

Click the link now to view the full list of 60 easy and delicious last-minute homemade Valentine’s Day treats and impress your loved ones today!

in Food and Recipes Posted by Natalie Tommy, VP Marketing, Nautical Lands Group of Companies & Wellings

June 19, 2021February 11, 2022

Happy Father’s Day!

“Surround yourself with only people who are going to lift you higher.”

-Oprah Winfrey

It always hits me in June, realizing that my Dad is no longer with me in the physical sense. Fortunately, Dad and I had a relationship that was a good one. He was a life force you couldn’t ignore, and he is omnipresent. My Dad wasn’t the best communicator by today’s standards, but I was a reasonable observer and always felt loved and supported. I was acutely aware of how he did things, how he conducted himself and lived in awe of how much he accomplished with less than a high school education. By the time he came clearly into my vision, I had observed that passion with hard work and charisma would yield a life that provided much for us kids and our Mum.

He had confidence, a fierce drive to win, and always felt a sense of pride when any of us achieved our goals, no matter how big or small they were. He didn’t realize it, but through his living example and our working relationship that spanned more than 25 years, he taught me about confidence, self-worth, following my passion, authenticity, loyalty, and humble pride.

It’s no surprise I married a man with some very similar characteristics, and he might be considered the champion of my life. I have set a course for myself and find that when my true North is elusive, he’s there for guidance and encouragement. Kevin recognizes more of my strengths than I do, and he reminds me to look back at my life and take it all in. At that moment, I am sure I stand just a little taller. I couldn’t be in a better place!

SO, this June, I want to acknowledge the men in my life who have been champions for me and so many others. They are solid and fierce winners in all they do: husbands, fathers, partners, providers, sons, friends, mentors, BBQing kings, and jokesters. These guys love life and are often heard saying, “bring it on!” They are the ones I think of when I need a boost of confidence or a breath of fresh air. I love strong humans who live life as only they can, this includes my family and friends, and I am so proud to see many of us embrace our authentic power. I have a strong belief in empowering women to change the world, and it’s happening! In my world, strong masculine types have always been a part of my life and a substantial positive influence, often encouraging me to follow my passions and, in so doing, make positive change. Dad taught me early that it was okay to stand up for my beliefs and give more weight to those playing inside the arena I was in. Not all lessons were easy, but I am happy to have these remarkable men in my life and have fully embraced my male energy. Humanity is masculine and feminine, and we are better together. When I embrace the fact, I have both male and female energies to work with, it makes for a good formula to handle just about anything that comes my way. I hope that’s the case for you too!

Love you guys, and Happy Father’s Day to those of you who are Dads.

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by Natalie Tommy, VP Marketing, Nautical Lands Group of Companies & Wellings

June 1, 2020February 11, 2022

I am a trailblazer, and I didn’t even know it!

Many of our members look to us to get them started or to help them gain a fresh perspective. It’s a beautiful thing to see people transform right before your eyes, as they meet people of a similar age, with similar interests and ways of communicating.

Aging well requires a commitment to shifting your mindset to become open to new ideas, be mindful of the present, look forward to the future while embracing the wisdom of the past. These vibrant young-seniors are youthful but not obsessed with being young. They don’t realize it all the time, but they are blazing the trails for the next generation of seniors. Setting the benchmark for what should be expected to age well and live well.

Many of them believe that the best is yet to come in terms of their needs, and they are grateful for the wisdom and the time to reflect on what they want from life now and into the future.

Rachel Henry, Wellings of Picton, says, “for example, many of our members recognized that they were alone more than they wanted to be. They didn’t necessarily want a partner, but they wanted people around to socialize with, laugh with, and share some good stories with. Wellings is a good place to meet people, laugh, and find opportunities to connect with the greater community.”

Volunteerism is an excellent example of engaging in the greater community at something you find fulfilling. Wellings is committed to connecting our members with staff who are educated in aging well and community service leaders and local initiatives to encourage participation outside the community.

There are so many opportunities to connect, such as community centers, community gardens, festivals, providing art classes, yoga teaching for seniors, cycling clubs, and walking or hiking clubs. The possibilities are endless. Further, we have found that the people we engage in the volunteer realm are healthier, happier, and seem to wake with a sense of purpose. This is important because it involves the mind, engages people in conversation, and keeps us more youthful.

As we age, we tend to become less social, as our friend group shrinks, but there are people all around us, we just need to find ways to connect our passions and hobbies with people who share them. Unfortunately, many people would equate independence with going it alone. Still, we know that to maintain overall good health, we need some element of social interaction. Everyone’s needs are different, but we do know that too much isolation isn’t good, especially for seniors.

Successful aging or aging well means different things all over the world. Still, a common thread seems to be taking the steps necessary to stay connected.

We are proud to be a great resource to many volunteer organizations and would be happy to be a resource for you, should you need us.

If you know of a volunteer organization that would benefit from the 55 plus community, let us know.

Enjoy this TED-X talk from Cathleen Toomey, it really resonated with us:

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by Natalie Tommy, VP Marketing, Nautical Lands Group of Companies & Wellings