When we are younger, we constantly talk about all the things we want to do once we have an empty nest and have retired. All the things like traveling, catching up on all those TV shows you never had a chance to watch, or joining an organization that you never had time to participate in before. Once that time comes, it seems we are still never able to do all the things we want and talked about, because we are too busy with daily chores and home maintenance. You just want to relax and enjoy all the years ahead of you, but are not sure how you will ever accomplish it. Perhaps independent living is the right choice for you!
Hearing the words independent living community, might put you on edge or cause you to run in the other direction, but like others, you undoubtedly want assurance of a happy, healthy life in the golden years. Many Americans have to make a choice, as they begin to grow older: where do they want to be as they age? Baby boomers are carrying their independence and lifestyles into their retirement. Recent trends in senior living communities and technology have made it easier to age gracefully. We all want to live and function as independently as possible and know it is essential to happiness and longevity in our senior years. “We decided that this was the time in our life where we wanted to change our lifestyle and enjoy life,” said Ben Bohuslav, resident of Watercrest at Bryan.
This is exactly what an independent living community gives you, independence and freedom. Watercrest wants residents to feel like they are home and the goal is to simplify some of the day-to-day hassles of life. They want residents to be active in a community where they can develop friends and friendships that last a long time. “I feel like this is my family. The people here, residents and staff alike, are so friendly and so nice,” said Donna Busbee, resident of Watercrest at Bryan.
“The people here, the residents make this place what it is. We love the staff, but the residents here look after one another, and I have not seen that at other places,” said Millie Parrack, resident of Watercrest at Bryan.
Lifespans are dramatically longer than they have been in previous generations, and more seniors are desirous of remaining active and healthy — this includes retaining their independence and lifestyle. Baby boomers want the same amenities, freedoms, and technology to maintain family connections to which they’ve become accustomed. “Our residents need little or no assistance with activities of daily living, and we do not offer medical care or nursing staff. As with regular housing, though, you can hire in-home help separately as required,” said Mireya Scanlin, Executive Director of Watercrest at Bryan. “The key difference between independent living and other housing options is the level of assistance offered for daily living activities. If you require round-the-clock help with eating, dressing, or require regular medical assistance, other housing options such as assisted living facilities or nursing homes may be a better fit.”
The next generation in senior living communities focuses on providing family-friendly spaces that emphasize relationships and activities, making senior living residences more accommodating to today’s new, modern family. Watercrest is Bryan/College Station’s newest luxury, independent living community for those in their late 40’s and above. It was developed for active adults and offers a lifestyle that reflects the taste, vitality, and vibrancy of today’s adults. Watercrest is designed for active adults, and unlike other communities, offer residents optional services such as lunch, twice monthly housekeeping, laundry services, and a personal emergency response service pendant monitored 24 hours a day.
In addition, Watercrest offers seniors a community that provides social activities and events. Social interaction promotes intellectual stimulation, which is important for active adults, ensuring that community members engage in social activities preventing isolation. “We give seniors the opportunity to connect with peers and participate in community activities, such as arts and crafts, holiday gatherings, continuing education classes, and game and movie nights,” Scanlin said. Watercrest empowers residents to actively engage in life and achieve an optimal state of body, mind, and spirit, by emphasizing personal choice, self-direction, fitness, and optimism. They support the belief that everyone can find ways to enhance health and spiritual wellness.
Watercrest at Bryan offers southern, home-style cooking, such as smothered pork chops or chicken fried steak, where you sit down and are served like you would be at a restaurant. “Most of the women here use to be the cooks, so they don’t have to cook, they don’t have to clean up afterwards, or listen to their husband complain about the food. Watercrest staff goes out of their way to treat the facility like it’s your home, with a friendly atmosphere. The women are pleased and appreciate that it is one less thing they have to do,” said Kim Foster, Food Service Director of Watercrest at Bryan. “Men like that there is always food they can count on — especially the bachelors.” There are different dining options available for residents to choose from, but every resident also has a large, full kitchen in their room to cook whatever they are in the mood for.
“Living at Watercrest exemplifies what retiring in Aggieland is all about. The same ‘spirit that can ne’er be told’ found at Texas A&M is alive and well at Watercrest. It’s one of the best decisions we have ever made,” said Dr. Charles Samson, Former President of Texas A&M and resident of Watercrest at Bryan.
Watercrest keeps residents’ health first and foremost. They have fitness programs and state-of-the-art equipment to promote a healthy and active lifestyle. The instructors that teach water aerobics, fitness classes, and Sit-N-Be-Fit classes are highly skilled professionals, specifically chosen based upon experience and background. One of the best features is a large saltwater pool that is heated year round and has a roof over it to offer sun protection. This allows residents to enjoy the pool without getting sunburned. Plus it is a great place to help keep grandchildren entertained at. There is always something exciting going on, such as the recent women’s margarita pool party on Cinco de Mayo.
No matter how hard we try to avoid it, every person has to address the issue of independent living as they age. Independent living at Watercrest at Bryan brings residents’ focus toward being active and becoming part of a community, while living a fulfilled lifestyle each and every day. Aggieland is a becoming very popular place to retire, and many Texas A&M Former Students already call Watercrest at Bryan home. Come home to Watercrest at Bryan, you’ll have the time of your life; enjoying retirement living that is inspired living.