Choosing where to live later in life is more than just practical – it’s personal. For some retirees, staying at home may not provide the desired support for well-being and enjoyment.
For many in California, the answer lies in Life Plan Communities like Wisteria at Warner Center, an upscale retirement community coming to LA. These communities offer surroundings and lifestyle options aimed at supporting emotional well-being and personal satisfaction.
Recent findings from the Mather Institute’s multi-year Age Well Study shine a light on how Life Plan Communities contribute to remarkable happiness and life satisfaction among their residents.
What are Life Plan Communities?
Life Plan Communities provide a living environment tailored to meet the needs of older adults. For instance, at Wisteria Residents will have resort-style residential living plus priority access to the adjacent care center for assisted living, memory care and long-term care in a skilled nursing center, if ever needed. The structure enables residents to age in place seamlessly.
These communities are about more than practical care – they’re about thriving. Residents have access to wellness programs, social opportunities and dining experiences designed to enrich their lives.
The Science Behind Happiness in Life Plan Communities
The Age Well Study, developed in collaboration with Northwestern University, is a groundbreaking analysis that measures the impact Life Plan Communities have on residents’ well-being. As revealed in the study, happiness and life satisfaction flourish among residents.
On a scale of 1 to 7, even the lowest-scoring residents rated their overall happiness and satisfaction at 4.6 – significantly higher than national averages for older adults not residing in Life Plan Communities. What’s more, over 50% of residents gave their happiness a score of 6 or greater.
It’s not just about being content; it’s about leading an emotionally fulfilling life. Residents who are happier and more satisfied often report enjoying their daily lives, leisure activities and a profound sense of community belonging.
“Residents who were more satisfied with their senior living community also tended to be happier and more satisfied with their life as a whole.” – The Age Well Study
Factors That Enhance Emotional Wellness
What makes Life Plan Communities stand out?
- Encouraging Physical Activity
Physical health is deeply connected to emotional health. The Age Well Study found that regular exercise leads to greater happiness levels. Life Plan Communities make it easy to stay active Most have at least one fitness center, trainers on staff, access to walking paths and group exercise classes tailored to residents’ abilities. Whether it’s yoga, aquatic therapy, or simply taking a stroll with a neighbor, residents have daily opportunities to keep moving.
- Promoting Healthy Eating
It’s no secret a balanced diet affects overall wellness. Life Plan Communities elevate dining by employing dieticians and chefs who prepare balanced and flavorful meals designed to support wellness. This commitment to healthy eating fosters improved energy, reduced health risks, and, according to the data, a happier outlook on life. Additionally, community dining venues foster camaraderie, which contributes to health and happiness, as we’ll see below.
- Building Social Connections
Peer interaction is at the heart of community living – a direct antidote to age-related loneliness and isolation. Social connections have been consistently tied to emotional wellness, and in Year 3 of the Age Well Study, a strong sense of belonging was directly linked to greater happiness. Community residents have opportunities to meet and bond through group activities, volunteer opportunities and shared meals. Many form meaningful friendships that provide companionship, daily joy and long-term fulfillment.
- Cultivating Lifelong Learning
Another reason Life Plan Community residents thrive is regular access to intellectual engagement. From book clubs to lectures to creative workshops, these communities understand that the mind is just as important as the body. The Age Well Study highlights an increase in intellectual activities among residents, which serves to enrich their lives and boost satisfaction.
- Reducing Stress with Tailored Support
Life Plan Communities aim to reduce certain daily stresses for seniors. From home maintenance to health care, the lifestyle is curated to provide more convenience and peace of mind. Residents have opportunities to engage in their interests, with support available for daily chores and household responsibilities.
How Life Plan Communities Make a Difference
Ultimately, Life Plan Communities do more than just meet basic needs – they create a culture and upscale setting where physical, emotional and social wellness flourish. By addressing all aspects of life satisfaction, these communities empower older adults to live full, vibrant lives.
Here are some stand-out benefits supported by the Age Well Study:
- Better Quality of Life: Residents report higher levels of emotional and physical well-being than peers living elsewhere.
- Focus on Emotional Wellness: Happiness is noticeably higher among Life Plan residents, thanks to their daily fulfillment and community connection.
- Support for Long-Term Health: With wellness programs, expert care and social engagement, residents are more likely to age well.
Your Future Starts Here
If you’ve been considering a move to a Life Plan Community, take the time to learn more about Wisteria at Warner Center, a brand-new Life Plan Community coming soon to Woodland Hills.
Get more information about Wisteria here and sign up today to join our waitlist.
