While there are many different definitions of what retirement means, one consistent view that retirees seem to agree on is that retirement is a time to enjoy life. But what does ‘enjoy life’ mean to you?Some retirees choose to continue their time in the workforce well into their 80s and 90s, as working and/or volunteering provides enjoyment and fulfillment in their life. There are other seniors who prefer to take a more leisurely approach to retirement. Travel and adventure is very popular amongst this group of retired seniors, as is adopting a new hobby that they never had time for in the past. Whatever it is that one chooses to do for enjoyment during their retired years, it is important for all seniors to maintain the optimal level of health and energy required to enjoy their favorite activities.
As the Corporate Wellness Director for Sunshine, I have spent countless hours speaking with residents about the transition from a large house and all the work it takes to maintain a home,to moving into a Sunshine Community. It seems to me that the underlying reason for most seniors to move into a Sunshine Communityis the opportunity to enjoy their golden years worry-free. Through countless resident interviews over the last four years, I have learned that the #1 reason seniors choose retirement community living is to eliminate the stress of caring for a house that is far larger than they need. The all-inclusive amenities that are offered in our independent living communities can directly impact our resident’s quality of life, and leave them with the energy to do the things that they love. From dining services that includes delicious and nutritious chef-prepared meals (and no dishes to wash or put away), to weekly housekeeping, bus transportation and on-site maintenance, residents can enjoy being taken care of and spend each day doing whatever it is they want!
Understandably, the decision to sell one’s home, downsize in most cases, is often a difficult one. After all, with each home that we live in we create memories that stick with us much longer than the experience itself. One of our challenges in life is finding that balance between holding on to what’s truly important to us, and letting go of that which no longer positively contributes to our quality of life and wellness. This is a very personal challenge for our residents, and difficult to decide where we would like to take our lives,hoping that this decision produces the most amount of happiness for ourselves and those that we love.
For those seniors whose life journey brings them to Sunshine, we proudly provide an amazing selection of amenities they need to simplify their lifeand provide safe, worry-free and active independent living. We also work continuously to provide our residents with the Sunshine-approvedWellness & Activity Program that helps them enjoy the hobbies and life experiences they are looking for in retirement. For our residents who are looking to work, we provide volunteer opportunitiesthat contribute to theircommunity in a productive way. For our residents who love to travel, we let them know about the Sunshine Travel Program that encourages residents to explore our 18 unique communities throughout the United States. We also have resident artists who prefer to showcase their talents from the comfort of their own home. For those residents, we provide a mix of activities, such as art classes, discussion groups, dance classes and craft groups. If there is an activity that is not on our calendar that residents want, we will find a way to provide it; that is the Sunshine Way!
We all know that there is no one way to enjoy your retirement. Whether you have a part time job, prefer to simply pick up a new hobby, or seek to travel the globe, we hope that your retirement provides you with the kind of joy that you deserve! After all, you’ve worked hard for so many years, it’s time to have the time of your life during your golden years! From all of us at Sunshine Retirement Living, we wish you happy holidays and a healthy and active new year!
In Good Health!
Denise Park
Wellness Director, Sunshine Retirement Living
 Sunshine Residents at The Landing at Behrman Place in New Orleans, LA have certainly found the Joy of Retirement! Everything is Thumbs Up! |
 Chef Martin at Garden Way knows how to create amazing fruit and vegetable appetizers for residents! |
 Myrtis, resident at The Verandah in Lake Charles, LA started her community’s first quilting group, where she shares her passion and expertise with other residents. |
*This blog was first published here: Sunshine Retirement Living
