Golden Years, Golden Life
Experts share insights for seniors on planning, health and lifestyle choices to ensure fulfilling years ahead.
Aging brings its own set of challenges and opportunities, and there’s never been a better time to focus on how to navigate them with intention. Whether it’s securing finances, choosing the right living space or finding alternative ways of staying active, the choices you make in the present will determine the outcomes in your future. To uncover the best ways to enjoy your golden years correctly, we spoke with experts who shared their best advice.
What should families look for when choosing the right senior living community?
“Focusing on the overall feel of the community, the quality of care, staff engagement, cleanliness, dining options and programming is key. It’s important to ask about staffing levels, care services and how the community handles changes in health needs. Most importantly, families should choose a place where their loved one feels comfortable, supported and able to maintain as much independence as possible.”
— Kelly Shoemaker, Regional Director of Sales, Brandywine Senior Living
What are the most effective strategies to ensure someone’s savings and investments last through retirement?
“At Havenwood Homes, families are not charged additional fees as their loved one ages in place and requires a higher level of care. We understand that care needs naturally increase over time, especially for individuals living with dementia and memory loss. That’s why our pricing model is designed to include all levels of care from the start. Unlike many communities that increase costs as residents need more assistance, our monthly rate remains the same (other than a small cost of living increase yearly). This provides families with predictability, peace of mind and financial stability, allowing them to better maximize their retirement savings and plan for the future without worrying about unexpected care charges.”
— Naomi Goldman, Owner, Havenwood Homes
How can families make the transition to senior living smoother for their loved ones?
“The transition is easier when families involve their loved one in the process early rather than making decisions for them. Visiting communities together, discussing preferences and focusing on the positives can help reduce fear and uncertainty. Bringing familiar items from home, staying involved after the move and encouraging participation in activities also helps make the new environment feel more comfortable.”
— Kelly Shoemaker
How can people build and maintain meaningful relationships to stay engaged and avoid isolation in later years?
“One of the most important aspects of healthy aging is staying connected to activities that bring purpose, joy and fulfillment. I encourage older adults to remain engaged in their communities by participating in activities they enjoy, whether that’s joining a club, attending social gatherings, pursuing hobbies or volunteering in a meaningful way. By filling their days with opportunities that align with their interests and passions, individuals can maintain a sense of purpose, strengthen social connections and enhance their overall quality of life. Staying active and engaged not only supports emotional well-being but also contributes to healthier aging and a greater sense of fulfillment each day.”
— Naomi Goldman
How can people decide whether staying in their home, downsizing or moving to a senior living community is the best option for them?
“This decision boils down to safety, quality of life and support. Families should look at how well the individual is managing day-to-day tasks such as meals, medications, housekeeping and social engagement. If maintaining their home becomes overwhelming or isolation is increasing, downsizing or moving into a senior living community would be a much better fit, providing support, connection and peace of mind needed. The most important thing is to plan early and have open conversations before a crisis forces a quick decision.”
— Kelly Shoemaker
What habits or activities can help keep someone’s mind sharp and reduce the risk of cognitive decline?
“Sleep plays a critical role in maintaining brain health and may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline as we age. Prioritizing quality sleep, along with proper nutrition and regular physical activity, provides a strong foundation for overall well-being and healthy aging. Equally important is exercising the mind through activities that challenge and stimulate cognitive function. Learning a new language, developing a new skill, reading, playing strategy games, completing Sudoku or crossword puzzles and engaging in lifelong learning can help keep the brain active and engaged. By consistently challenging ourselves mentally, we support cognitive resilience and promote long-term brain health.”
— Naomi Goldman
RESOURCES
Brandywine Senior Living
Serving South Jersey
(877) 4-Brandy
Havenwood Homes
Cherry Hill
(856) 702-4177
The Evergreens, an Acts Community
Moorestown
(888) 743-0893
