Blog | The Wellings

April 20, 2024April 20, 2024

Tips for Seniors to Outsmart Online Scams

As the world evolves, so too do cybercriminals’ tactics, with seniors increasingly becoming targets of sophisticated online scams.

Understanding these scams and learning how to protect oneself is crucial.

Here’s a guide to help you stay safe online.

Beware of Tech Support Tricks

Tech support scams are prevalent and particularly nasty because they play on fears of technology issues. Scammers may alert you to nonexistent problems on your computer or smartphone, often through pop-up warnings or unsolicited phone calls. They’ll ask for remote access to your device or demand payment for support services. Remember, legitimate companies like Microsoft or Apple will never initiate contact about tech problems on your device.

The Grandparent Scam: A Call for Caution

This emotionally manipulative scam involves a call from someone pretending to be your grandchild in a crisis. The caller might request money for an urgent problem like bail money or hospital bills and often pleads with you to keep it a secret. Always verify such claims by contacting your family members through known phone numbers, not the ones provided during the suspicious call.

Romantic Ruses: Steering Clear of Sweetheart Scams

Online dating can be an excellent way to meet new people, but it is also a standard arena for scams. Scammers create fake profiles to build relationships, only to eventually ask for money, often citing emergencies. Be cautious with new online relationships, especially those that progress rapidly and soon involve financial requests.

Impersonation Scams: The Fake Officials

Scammers might impersonate government officials, threatening fines or arrests to scare you into paying them money or disclosing personal information. Genuine agencies will never threaten you over the phone or demand payments via unconventional methods like gift cards or wire transfers.

Charity Scams: When Generosity is Exploited

You might receive calls asking for charitable donations after natural disasters or during the holiday season. Verify the legitimacy of these organizations by visiting their official websites or checking with platforms like the Better Business Bureau. Never give out your credit card or personal information over the phone to unsolicited callers.

Investment Scams: Too Good to Be True

Be wary of anyone promising high returns with little to no risk. These scams often come with high-pressure sales tactics to rush you into making decisions. Always research opportunities and consult with trusted financial advisors before making any investments.

Staying Protected

Educate Yourself and Others: Stay informed about the latest scams and protective strategies. Discuss these issues with friends and family.

Secure Your Devices: Keep your software updated and use comprehensive security software to protect against viruses and malware.

Verify Before You Trust: Always double-check facts when you receive unsolicited requests for money or personal information.

By taking these steps, you can help create a safer online environment for yourself and your fellow seniors.

Remember, awareness is your first line of defense against scams.

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by My Wellings

April 14, 2024April 14, 2024

Clever Riddles to Brighten Your Day

Hello, dear Members of The Wellings!

Today, we’re exploring a delightful medley of riddles and brainteasers that promise to add a little fun to your day.

So, please grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let’s unravel these puzzles together.

What rocks but does not roll?

A rocking chair.

My voice is tender, my waist is slender, and I’m often invited to play. Yet wherever I go, I must take my bow, or else I have nothing to say. What am I?

A violin.

First, I am dry, and then I am wet. The longer I swim, the more taste you get. What am I?

Tea.

A man stands on one side of a river, his dog on the other. The man calls his dog, who immediately crosses the river without getting wet or using a bridge or a boat. How did the dog do it?

The river was frozen.

A doctor and a bus driver are in love with the same woman, an attractive girl named Juliet. The bus driver has to go on a long bus trip that will last a week. Before he leaves, he gives Juliet seven apples. Why?

An apple a day keeps the doctor away.

A woman shoots her husband. Then she holds him underwater for over 5 minutes. Finally, she hangs him. But 5 minutes later, they go out together and enjoy a wonderful dinner. How can this be?

The woman was a photographer. She shot a picture of her husband, developed it, and hung it up to dry.

Until I am measured, I am not known. Yet you miss me, when I have flown. What am I?

Time.

There is a word in English in which the first two letters signify a male, the first three letters signify a female, the first four signify a great man, and the whole word a great woman. What is the word?

Heroine.

I left my campsite and hiked south for 3 miles. Then I turned east and hiked for 3 miles. I then turned north and hiked for 3 miles, seeing a bear inside my tent eating my food! What color was the bear?

White, since the only place you can do that is the North Pole, white polar bears are the only bears living there.

Also, if you walk south, east, north, and end up back where you started. You must be near the North Pole. This is because, at the geographic North Pole, any southward movement eventually leads to a circular path around the pole (due to the curvature of the Earth and its convergence at the poles). After moving east (which, near the pole, is moving in a circle around the pole), turning and moving north brings you back to the starting point.

Turn me on my side, and I am everything. Cut me in half, and I am nothing. What am I?

The number 8.

No matter how little or how much you use me, you change me every month. What am I?

A calendar.

How can 8 + 8 = 4?

When you think in terms of time. 8 AM + 8 hours= 4 o’clock.

As we wrap up our session of brain teasers, I hope you found joy and a bit of mental gymnastics in today’s riddles.

Whether you solve them quickly or ponder them over tea, these playful puzzles are an excellent way to keep your mind sharp and your spirits high.

Remember, every day at The Wellings is a chance to learn something new and share a smile with our neighbors.

We look forward to bringing you more fun and games next time.

Until then, keep those gears turning and enjoy every delightful moment at The Wellings!

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by My Wellings

April 6, 2024April 6, 2024

The Remarkable Journey Home: A Tale of Hope and Reunion

In the heart of a quiet neighbourhood lived an elderly woman named Mrs. Ellie and her adventurous cat, Whiskers.

Whiskers, a curious soul with a distinctive white fur over his mouth, embarked on an unexpected journey that led him far from home. His absence left a void in Mrs. Ellie’s heart, prompting a neighbourhood-wide search for the beloved pet.

After weeks of worry and longing, a faint meow from the old oak tree in Mrs. Ellie’s backyard signaled the end of Whiskers’ grand adventure and the beginning of a heartwarming reunion. Mrs. Ellie found Whiskers entangled in the branches, a little worse for wear but safe.

The joy of their reunion echoed throughout the neighbourhood, a testament to hope and the unbreakable bond between a pet and their human:

All celebrated Whiskers’ return, a reminder of the love and community spirit that binds us together.

This tale of adventure, hope, and reunion highlights the remarkable journeys pets sometimes take and the joyous moments when they find their way back home.

Here are a few other heartwarming stories of pets and their incredible journeys back to loving homes.

Let us explore these tales of happy reunions:

A Journey Across Miles: Discover the story of a dog who traveled hundreds of miles to reunite with its family, overcoming numerous obstacles. Read more here.

The Cat Who Came Back: Read about a cat that returned to its family after being lost for over a year. This story celebrates the resilience of pets and the miracles that sometimes bring them back to us. Read more here.

Each of these stories is a beacon of hope for those still searching for their lost pets, reminding us of the incredible journeys our animal companions can have and the joyous reunions that await.

Remember, while the journey might be long and filled with uncertainty, the possibility of a happy reunion is always there, lighting the way home.

Welcome home, furry friend, welcome home!

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by My Wellings

March 30, 2024March 30, 2024

The Power of Wonder and Awe

Do you remember that feeling as a child, when you saw the Christmas tree for the first time during the holiday season? Maybe it was your first flight or seeing your child or grandchild for the first time that made you feel something beyond words, something that transcends everyday life. It’s a feeling that we describe as awe or wonder; it’s magic that leaves an imprint.

Although we each have our own precious moments of awe and wonder, we are inclined to leave it to the world to bring these special moments to us. Recently I visited Canada’s National Gallery where it’s pretty much non-stop wonder for me. Visiting the aboriginal exhibit, seeing how early craftspeople made tools and garments leaves me feeling overwhelmed because their resourcefulness and skills are so impressive. Seeing the work of Canadian artists who capture the essence of a boreal forest with colours that don’t exist in nature, but they convince us otherwise leaves me speechless. We are swept up in wonder; as we participate in this creative connection and we allow ourselves to step away from our ruminating mind, to stand in awe. I love to visit the National Gallery because I know that I’ll be inspired to look at life differently.

“The key to a wonderful life is to never stop wandering into wonder.” – Suzy Kassem (writer)

Think of a wedding, where family and friends gather to celebrate love between two people. It’s such a joyful and powerful experience for those in attendance, often moving them to shed happy tears. That’s awe and wonder in action. Sometimes watching a sunrise or a sunset can inspire a strong emotional response. We can call that everyday wonder because these events happen every day. Research tells us that nourishing awe and wonder in our lives is a healthy coping tool, often strengthening our connection with others when we share the experience.

Being in nature is not only awe inspiring, its medicine for us humans. Japanese culture promotes forest bathing or shinrin-yoku, shinrin: forest and yoku: bathing, where people are encouraged to experience the wonder of nature without distraction, walk at a slow pace and notice their surroundings. The benefits of this practice include improved immunity, lung, and heart function as well as memory, and focus. Forest bathing is an excellent antidote for stress and anxiety and is helpful with recovery from injury.

“Look up at the stars and not down at your feet. Try to make sense of what you see and wonder about what makes the universe exist. Be curious.” -Stephen Hawking (Cosmologist)

I’m old enough to remember dial telephones and party lines. I love those experiments where they put young kids in front of a dial telephone and ask them if they know how it works. Most of the time they have no idea and that’s just to demonstrate how far we’ve come and how quickly technology has been evolving. I asked Chat GPT, an artificial intelligence language model that has been trained to produce human-like text, to tell me how a rotary phone works and in seconds I had a pretty thorough explanation. While Artificial Intelligence or AI is one of mankind’s greatest achievements, it comes with plenty of warnings. While we need to embrace technology to stay relevant, as a society, we need to be cautious around its use. Sure, it can respond to questions effectively and efficiently, but I wonder who’s curating the information being shared. I wonder about AI’s impact on our workforce, but I don’t doubt the positive impact it can and will have in our world.

“You will enrich your life immeasurably if you approach it with a sense of wonder and discovery and always challenge yourself to try new things.” – Nate Berkus (designer)

To be alive today is to live in an era of wonder. We’ve witnessed some of mankind’s greatest successes but we’re also experiencing some detrimental effects from some of these great accomplishments. Because so many of us are connected to our devices, there’s a loneliness epidemic and while there are and will be many innovations to help connect us as humans, nothing is better than human to human connection. At least for now, there’s no heart and soul in what Chat GPT produces and this is what we humans require. Let’s embrace these technological innovations with a beginner’s mindset and not get disillusioned because while change is inevitable, our world is a pretty remarkable place. Let’s choose an approach of wonder and awe about it instead of deciding to be afraid of it.

There are two ways to live: you can live as if nothing is a miracle; you can live as if everything is a miracle. – Albert Einstein

Let’s be life-long learners, excellent students of wonder and awe in our every day. As corny as it may sound, there’s magic in seeing the beauty in nature: watching a bird feeding or flying, noticing the intricacies in a flower and marveling at it all. See all your life as the miracle it is and take your sense of wonder with you wherever you go and hopefully you’ll inspire others to do the same.

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by Kathie Donovan

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

March 15, 2024March 15, 2024

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at the Wellings 🍀

Hello, wonderful Wellings residents.

As the breezes of March whisk through, bringing with them the whispers of spring, we find ourselves on the Saturday before one of the most spirited celebrations of the year – St. Patrick’s Day.

And who says it’s just the young or the Irish who get to have all the fun?

We’ve got a pot full of activities and ideas to ensure St. Patrick’s Day is as magical and memorable for us at the Wellings as finding a four-leaf clover in our backyard.

Parade Participation – Virtually or Locally

Nothing screams St. Patrick’s Day quite like a parade. Whether we attend a local one or watch a grand parade virtually from cities known for their St. Paddy’s Day festivities, let’s immerse ourselves in this beautiful day’s vibrant greens, lively music, and joyous dancing.

Dancing to the Rhythms of Ireland

Fancy a jig or a reel? Let’s move our coffee tables aside and learn an Irish step dance in our living room. Plenty of beginner-friendly tutorials are online; we could put on a show for our friends and family over a video call! It’s all in good fun, and laughter is guaranteed.

Melodies from the Emerald Isle

From the hauntingly beautiful strains of Celtic Woman to the rollicking tunes of traditional Irish folk music, let’s fill our homes with the sounds of Ireland. Music can transport us, so why not let it take us on a journey to Ireland’s lush landscapes and rugged coastlines?

Brain-Boosting Trivia Night

Why not host a St. Patrick’s Day trivia night? With categories ranging from Irish history to famous Irish legends and landmarks, we can test our knowledge and learn something new. It’s a fantastic way to engage our brains and share a laugh.

Crafting Green

Let’s get our hands busy with some St. Patrick’s Day crafts. From green necklaces to rainbow portraits, crafting is not just a way to celebrate; it’s a way to express our creativity and add a personal touch to our decorations.

A Scavenger Hunt for the Young at Heart

Who doesn’t love a good scavenger hunt? Hide some leprechaun cutouts or pots of gold around our community or homes, and let the games begin. It’s a beautiful way to add a bit of adventure to the day.

Cooking Up a Storm

From baking shamrock-shaped cookies to whipping up a traditional Irish stew, cooking is a delicious way to dive into the celebrations. Sharing these treats with friends and neighbors (while donning a chef’s hat with a shamrock) can add to the fun.

Hosting a Green Happy Hour

Let’s raise our glasses (filled with green punch or shamrock shakes) to good health and happiness. Hosting a happy hour, even virtually, can bring us all together in spirit and cheers.

Decking the Halls in Green

Why spruce up our spaces with green decorations, shamrocks, and perhaps even a leprechaun hat? It’s a simple way to bring the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day into our homes.

Crafting with Loved Ones

For those of us with grandchildren or young visitors, spending an afternoon crafting can be a joyous way to bond. Whether it’s simple shamrock hats or green bead necklaces, these activities are fun and keepsakes.

Let’s make the most of this St. Patrick’s Day at the Wellings by engaging in these delightful activities. Whether we’re dancing, baking, crafting, or simply enjoying the music, there’s no end to how we can celebrate. So, let’s don our greenest attire, embrace our inner leprechauns, and spread some joy and laughter around. After all, we’ve all got a bit of Irish in us on St. Patrick’s Day.

Sláinte to a day filled with fun, laughter, and the warmth of community! 🌈🍀

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by My Wellings

March 14, 2024March 14, 2024

Where Senior Living Meets Purpose and Community – NLG’s Approach

I am proud to say that at all levels of Nautical Lands Group, we understand the significance of creating environments that go beyond mere structures, focusing on community, well-being, and purpose for our seniors. As we navigate the landscape of senior living, it’s important to keep this in mind, so we are purposefully building communities that are aligned with the goals of the very people who will live with us.

Let’s delve into key elements that guide us in crafting thriving senior living communities.

Clusters of One Storey Villas, mid-rise and hi-rise communities.

In the small to mid-size communities we build in, there is a focus on one-storey bungalow-villas and often there is a mid-rise component within the same site plan. This fosters a sense of connection between residents and the greater community, At NLG, we believe in creating living spaces that encourage social interaction among residents while providing a sense of autonomy and privacy. In our Hi-rise communities, we purposely locate all of our amenities between the first and second floors to ensure our members connect with not only each other but also with the greater community at large everyday. This is important to feeling connected to the world.

Promenade

Our commitment to senior well-being extends to the outdoors and we celebrate the ability to live in a natural setting whenever we are able to. We design communities with pleasant walking paths, creating a perfect setting for physical activity, socialization, and a connection with nature. The promenade becomes more than just a walkway; it becomes a vital part of daily life, encouraging fitness and community engagement.

Clubhouses and Atriums

Communal gathering spaces lie at the heart of our vibrant 55 plus senior communities. These spaces, whether it’s a cozy corner garden or a bustling clubhouse, serve as focal points for social activities, events, and shared experiences. It’s about creating spaces where seniors can come together, form connections, and thrive on their own schedules. We often hear that our community gathering spaces make people feel like they are on vacation at a 5-star hotel.

Proximity to Community Services

Seniors deserve seamless access to the broader community. At NLG, we seek out communities that are large enough to deliver essential services and cultural experiences, but small enough to navigate easily. Ensuring that our resident members can easily feel and be connected to the world beyond their immediate surroundings and find many levels of health care when needed.

Common Areas at the Heart

Placing communal gathering areas at the center of our Wellings communities is a deliberate choice. Our community centers and activity spaces are designed to be vibrant hubs where residents can engage in a variety of activities, from fitness classes to reading nooks and live music. Many communities enjoy a diverse variety of member led experiences. These spaces are not just amenities; they are the heartbeat of our communities.

Activities and Hobbies

We understand the importance of fostering a sense of purpose among our seniors. Our communities encourage opportunities for meaningful activities and hobbies, by encouraging members to dig into passions they may have not had time to cultivate. Whether it’s taking a piano lesson, gardening, arts and crafts, or other creative pursuits, our seniors find avenues for personal fulfillment and contribution. Often sharing and offering their expertise to others.

Paths and Goals

Navigating our communities should be a seamless experience for residents with varying mobility levels. Clear pathways, thoughtfully designed with accessible features, guide our seniors through environments that offer not just movement but a sense of purpose and destination. In several communities, walking trails are easily accessible right from their own front doors.

Water features

Water features play a pivotal role in creating serene and visually appealing environments. Where space permits, we incorporate ponds, fountains, and other water elements to enhance the well-being of our members, providing spaces for relaxation and reflection.

At NLG and Wellings we are on a mission to change the way people perceive living in retirement. Changing where you live should not change the goals you have for a vibrant and healthy lifestyle, it should allow you the freedom to take the steps necessary to get where you want to go. By letting go of your home maintenance and your “ must do list” and picking up your nothing is stopping me, “ what’s on for the day” fun list, will slowly change your perception over time. Consider what you need from your surroundings to thrive and enjoy where you are in life.

Choosing an adult lifestyle community for living in retirement is a significant decision that goes well beyond the physical amenities. For NLG and Wellings, crafting thriving senior living communities goes beyond constructing physical structures; it involves designing spaces that prioritize community, accessibility, and purpose. It involves considering the overall atmosphere of the community. We are dedicated to creating environments where our seniors can truly thrive. We invite you to join us or visit one of the communities for yourself, as we continue on this journey towards redefining senior living with our members.

(Peter Gregor, VP Development for Nautical Lands Group, has been a leader in design and development for over 25 years and was entered into the “Global Healthcare” Hall of Fame in 2014)

in Nautical Lands Group Posted by Peter Gregor VP Development for NLG

March 8, 2024March 8, 2024

Fit Tips for Life: Staying Motivated and Persistent

Persistence is the key to unlocking success in life. When faced with challenges, it can be tempting to give up on our goals and move on to something else. But those who persist in the face of adversity will eventually achieve what they set out to do.

In my 36 years of working in the fitness industry, I have observed that staying dedicated to a workout routine can be challenging for many people. I fall victim to this also. This is why I implemented motivation and persistence tips each day to stay focused. I have listed these tips below for you to follow.

Set realistic goals for yourself and break them down into smaller, achievable steps. This will help you stay motivated as you work towards your overall objective.
Create a workout schedule for yourself and stick to it as much as possible. Consistency is key when it comes to building a fitness routine.
Seek a positive workout buddy or accountability partner who can help keep you on track and hold you accountable. Interacting with individuals who possess a positive attitude toward life can be a source of inspiration. They don’t suck the energy out of you; they help create it.
Ensure you’re enjoying your workouts. No, you don’t have to love everything in your workout, but overall, you must like what you are doing and see a benefit in it.
Remember to celebrate your progress along the way – even small victories can help keep you motivated to continue pushing forward. Focus on the journey, not the outcome. It can be a great experience if you let it.
Remember why you started this journey in the first place.
Practice gratitude daily. This action helps you recognize who or what you must be thankful for. It also reminds you of all your resources during roadblocks or challenging times in your fitness journey.

So, if you want to achieve your goals, staying motivated and persistent is super important. Whether it’s in fitness or any other aspect of our lives, setting realistic goals, creating a plan, seeking support, enjoying the journey, celebrating small victories, and practicing gratitude can help us stay on track and overcome any challenges that come our way. Remember, it’s not about being perfect but about making progress. So, keep pushing forward, and you will eventually achieve what you set out to do.

By: Tracy Reid
Health Coach
Fitness Powers

in Health and Fitness Posted by Fitness Powers

March 1, 2024March 1, 2024

Taking the Scare out of Retirement and Swapping it for Enthusiasm

Dame Judi Dench said, “It’s the rudest word in my dictionary, “retire.” And “old” is another one. I don’t allow that in my house. And being called “vintage.” I don’t want any of those old words. I like “enthusiastic.”

I do too, Dame Judy. I really like it. How many of us resonate with the word retired?

There’s a hidden implication that needs to be addressed when it comes to retirement and aging in general and that is that as we get older, we become irrelevant. But that’s only true if we say it is right? Personally, I am firmly opposed to this silly notion and hope that together we can plant some ideas to redefine an outdated concept.

Some of us have lived our lives in service to our families and our communities, to our bosses and the companies that employed us and need an opportunity to rest and recover from all the activity. I celebrate that pause for sure. But to thrive, human beings need to have a purpose at every stage of life and what we conventionally refer to as retirement can be our best chapter yet.

“Often when you think you’re at the end of something, you’re at the beginning of something else.” -Fred Rogers

I’m at an age now where many of my contemporaries are either preparing to or have stopped working full-time, to savour all the freedom that comes with this new phase of life. When they talk about retirement, it has a very different tone from how their parents might have framed it. We are, as Dame Judy suggests, enthusiastic about life: we have hobbies, personal and professional pursuits, activities, social circles, and in my observation that sounds more like having a passion for living fully. Let’s look at the word retired: it has the word tired in it and most of us are anything but tired. Far from it, we’re ready to embrace the adventures awaiting us. Even working out of necessity can be more enjoyable because our life experience has taught us to recognize our limits and create a work life more aligned with our capabilities and interests.

Some of us may have forgotten how to be playful, having defined our success by providing for others, meeting deadlines and being driven by pressure. This chapter is not that; it’s an opportunity to grow into a new version of ourselves, where we call the shots and where we measure our success with a different ruler.

“Retirement is not in my vocabulary. They aren’t going to get rid of me that way.” – Betty White

American actress, comedienne and producer Betty White was an icon: a beautiful, talented woman who enjoyed a career in television for almost seven decades. She was a champion in animal rescue, had an enviable optimism and a wicked sense of humour. Plainly put, Betty White knew how to be playful and make the most of a life filled with purpose. She had her share of loss and struggle, but it was always her enthusiasm for living that shone through.

The new measure for our success in this third chapter of life is focused on productivity from a different viewpoint. We all have the same number of hours in a day; it’s what we do with that time that will make the difference and this is where purpose comes in. It seems that when we’re young our purpose is easier to connect with, as we build our family, our career, and our social circles but in our third chapter it’s more of a challenge. Our social circles change for various reasons, our family structure shifts too, and we can be left feeling lost or we can begin an investigation to find new meaning. People often advise us to get back to hobbies we enjoyed when we were young, which can be a clue but connecting with our purpose is not like finding a lost quarter, it’s more like uncovering a mystery.

“Retirement isn’t the end of the road, but just a turn in the road.” –Unknown

There’s more great news about this chapter in our life adventure: we’re the choosers, we’re the deciders and we have more sovereignty over key decisions like where we live and how we live. One of the challenges we face is that we prefer our comfort zone over growth because it can be uncomfortable but the key to living with enthusiasm is taking risk, there’s no growth without it.

Moving forward into this exciting time of life means we get to try new things, meet new people, perhaps adopt a pet, experiment with language, musical instruments, volunteering, and work opportunities. We have amassed a lot of experience and hopefully some wisdom to help steer us as we navigate. While it may be some time before we find a new word to best describe this potential filled chapter of life, we are breaking ground and we’re doing it by living joyfully, practicing spontaneity, connecting with purpose, and placing importance on connection and community. These are the building blocks of a brilliant third chapter and the exciting part is we’re creating it together.

in Health and Fitness Posted by Kathie Donovan

February 26, 2024February 26, 2024

The Joy of Pet Besties for Seniors: Furry Friends for Golden Years At The Wellings

We have a special place in our hearts for pets. Many of our members have discovered the joy and companionship of having a furry friend by their side. These pet besties are more than just animals; they are cherished companions who bring laughter, comfort, and a sense of well-being to our lives. As we navigate through the golden years, the presence of these adorable companions can transform everyday moments into treasures of happiness and companionship. Let’s explore the delightful world of pet besties for seniors at The Wellings and see how these furry friends can make the golden years even more golden.

The Unbreakable Bond

The bond between seniors and their pets is extraordinary. Whether it’s a dog’s wagging tail greeting you at the door or a cat’s purring comfort during a quiet afternoon, these moments create a connection that goes beyond words. Pets have a way of understanding and providing simple and profound comfort. They become confidants, exercise buddies, and sources of endless entertainment, especially for the members at The Wellings, where pets are an integral part of the community.

Health Benefits Galore

The benefits of having a pet in your senior years stretch far beyond companionship. Walking a dog encourages physical activity, essential for maintaining mobility and heart health. The routines required in pet care also promote mental sharpness and provide structure to everyday life. Moreover, the presence of a pet can significantly reduce stress levels, lower blood pressure, and even decrease feelings of loneliness. At The Wellings, we see firsthand pets’ positive impact on our members’ health and well-being.

A Boost to Social Life

Pets are incredible social catalysts. Walking a dog in the park or attending a pet-friendly event can lead to interactions and conversations that might not happen otherwise. For seniors, especially those who live alone or are introverted, pets can open doors to new friendships and community connections, enriching their social lives in unexpected and delightful ways. The Wellings community thrives on these connections, making it a vibrant place to live for humans and their pets.

Choosing the Perfect Pet Bestie

When choosing a pet, it’s important to consider lifestyle, mobility, and personal preferences. Smaller dog breeds like Shih Tzus or Poodles are remarkable for their manageable size and affectionate nature. With their independent streak and low-maintenance care, cats are perfect for those who enjoy quieter companionship. For those with limited space or physical limitations, birds or fish can provide companionship without needing walks or intense physical care. At The Wellings, we support our members in finding the perfect pet that matches their lifestyle and needs.

Stories of Furry Friendship

Imagine the story of John, a 75-year-old widower at The Wellings, who found a new lease on life with Max, a cheerful Labrador. Their daily walks in the park brought John new friends and a renewed enthusiasm for life. Or consider Mary, who adopted a pair of kittens, finding laughter in their playful antics and comfort in their quiet presence during the evenings.

Embracing the Journey Together

Pet besties for seniors at The Wellings are more than just animals; they are partners in navigating the journey of the golden years. They bring laughter, love, and a sense of purpose, making every day brighter and more meaningful. In embracing the companionship of a pet, our members not only enhance their own lives but also provide a loving home for animals in need. It’s a beautiful partnership that celebrates life, companionship, and pets’ unconditional love. So here’s to the members of The Wellings and their furry besties. May their days be filled with joy, laughter, and cuddling!

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by My Wellings