Nancy Weinbeck: 5 lessons from the for-profit senior living world
Growing up in an apartment building complex in Coney Island, Brooklyn, I could recognize and name dandelions, tulips and roses. Sadly, that was the extent of my floral literacy. Since moving to the Pacific Northwest several decades ago, my recognition and vocabulary of our rich flora has expanded quite a bit. I can now talk about rhodys as well as the next person. Dear reader, you're likely wondering what does this have to do with aging? Stay with me.
I just read about the water hyacinth. This beautiful flowering water plant starts out barely noticeable, taking up a tiny portion of a pond or other body of water. However, as it grows, its watery roots multiply, and before you know it, the same pond is covered with these beautiful, interconnected flowers. A perfect healthy aging metaphor!
As we age, our world can contract as we retire from the work force, lose neighbors, friends and loved ones as people move on or pass. Without action on our part, the contraction can continue until our pond becomes very small. However, like the water hyacinth, planting oneself in a healthy and enriching substrate can offer the opportunity for exponential expansion instead.
I have seen it over and over again at Bayview. A new resident moves in, initially a lone flower in a new pond. However, often within weeks or even days, connections start growing until their personal pond is covered with beautiful blooming flowers: multiple friendships and nurturing connections with staff, instructors, musicians and guests of all manner who visit Bayview.
No person is an island, and we are not meant to age alone. Studies have shown people who live at Continuing Care Retirement Communities like Bayview live an average of seven years longer than their peers who stay at home. So, though it doesn't feel like spring lately, make like a water hyacinth. Find yourself a nourishing substrate that feeds your own personal and spiritual growth and watch as your world expands and inspires others with its newfound beauty.
Happy spring everyone.
Nancy Weinbeck is the CEO of Bayview in Queen Anne.