Activities can define a retirement community. Learn more about the different activities these communities can provide.

What is an active adult community? While we can define it based on age restrictions—home to anyone 55 or older—that’s not what draws people to these communities. Many gated communities can fit that definition easily. The same goes with many other features that retirees like: Low-maintenance housing, nice amenities shared by the community, and a central location. 

Instead, what makes an active adult community is its activities. In other words, the events and such where retirees and seniors can spend time together. While you may be able to just meet your neighbors and get along with them, it takes organized events and activities to really get to know the people around you, especially if they live a little further down the street or may be a little less sociable. With the right activities, you can feel at home living in these communities.

Different Types of Activities for Active Adults

When looking at retirement communities and such, you’ll want programming that fits your active lifestyle as much as possible. But what that means can vary. Sometimes you want to spend your free time being outdoors. Other times, you may want to learn something you couldn’t when you were still in the workforce. Still others, you may want to kick back, relax, and spend time with people in your neighborhood. The ideal active adult community will have programming that suits your needs. Here are some examples of activities you can do.

Music is a great way to connect with other retirees such as yourself. If you have a knack for singing or playing an instrument, some communities will have active choirs and bands for you to join. You’ll get a chance to perform like you always have to a crowd that will support you. Never got the chance to start playing? It’s never too late to learn, with many communities offering music classes. Of course, if you’d rather watch than play, retirement communities will offer regular concerts, including cover bands that will play some of your favorite songs.

If you’re looking to join an active adult community close to a major airport, it’s probably because you still want to see the world after retirement. But many communities will support your travel dreams regardless of where you are. They run travel groups that allow you to visit places around the country and the world, often at a discount. It makes it easy for you to see the sights without feeling alone, while also staying affordable. In addition, many places offer on-site travel agents that allow you to plan your next trip, with or without friends in the community.

Retirement’s the best time to learn a new hobby, and what better time to do that than in a community that supports both doing and learning new crafts. Many have hobby centers that include studios for practicing woodworking, pottery, glassmaking, and more. They will also host classes to learn these crafts, allowing you to showcase that creativity to members of the community. 

In life, you never stop learning something new every day. But if you’re more curious about the world, then many active adult communities offer lifelong learning opportunities. These take the form of regular classes on many subjects, whether it’s American history or marine biology. These take the form of structured courses lasting several weeks, though you won’t necessarily get a surprise quiz or exam. Of course, in certain communities, especially those in college towns, they’ll have partnerships with the local university, so you can actually earn credit towards a college degree.

Of course, being active can mean getting physical. But that can also mean doing more than just taking a jog on the walking trails or a daily bike ride. Exercise classes are standard fare at retirement communities, but many go further with sports and strength training. You can join a pickleball club, or spend time with a hiking group climbing a nearby mountain. Of course, if you prefer low-key physical activity, there’s always swimming classes and tai chi.

Benefits of Having Many Active Adult Activities

When you join an active adult community with great programs, your life will feel enriched in many ways. First, you’ll meet and earn lifelong friends within the community, based on your common interests. Second, you’ll feel like part of the community, being more closely connected to those around you. Your neighbors will get to know you better. Next, it’s a healthy way to stay active, as you’ll have something that keeps you going. Finally, you’ll never get bored.

When it comes to finding activities that suit your active lifestyle, the tricky part is finding the right community that suits your needs. Thankfully, Kithward can help with our selection of active adult communities that you can view and book a tour with.

What Makes Retirement Communities? Activities, Of Course!

Is your house feeling too big, cluttered, or expensive to maintain? Learn more about downsizing when you retire.

On the verge of retirement, it’s important to think about what you want to do with your home. While many retirees hope to age in place, that may not always be the best idea. Your home may feel too big, have become cluttered, or is simply a hassle to maintain. Whether you want to stay put, or sell your home and move into a retirement community, it’s important to consider downsizing. It helps make your life easier and makes things less stressful for you and your family, regardless of what you do or where you go.

Downsizing is moving to a smaller home or reducing the amount of space you take up in your home. It’s often tied in with decluttering, where you pare down what you have so it takes up less space than usual. Downsizing doesn’t mean a change in the quality of life you have, merely the amount of space your life takes up.

It’s very common to downsize: According to a Merrill Lynch survey, 51% of retirees who move from their old home downsize, compared to 30% who upsize and 19% who move to a similar-sized home. 

Downsizing becomes important if and when you decide to move to a 55+ community such as a life plan community. Moving can be a stressful time for you and your family, and you have to consider how much you really want to take with you to your new home. It can also be a factor if you need to make an emergency move, especially after a health crisis.

Of course, the reasons you may want to consider downsizing after retirement sometimes may have little to do with where you’re going and what you want to do, and more about what you have now. You may have spent years living in this house, but it may be time to change. The kids are no longer home, and even if you use one of their rooms as a guest room, they’re typically empty. You likely no longer need as many of your possessions as you did years ago. You may keep an active lifestyle, but getting around a big house like yours can be a hassle. On top of all this, it’s expensive to maintain your home, especially now that you’re retired. When you consider all these reasons, downsizing may be the best option.

Of course, downsizing isn’t for every retiree or senior. While there are many reasons to downsize, there are other reasons that will compel you to stay put. You may want to stay close to your family, or you’re still an active part of your community. Regardless, there are questions to ask yourself before you consider downsizing. Even if you choose to stay, asking these questions may help you declutter your home so you can have a better living situation.

When you first bought your home, you probably had a clear vision of what your lifestyle would look like: Raising kids and pets, spending time with your spouse, getting along with the neighbors. But now that the kids are no longer home, it may just be you, your spouse, and/or your pets. Your lifestyle may have changed, and it’s possible your house no longer suits that lifestyle. If that’s the case, then downsizing might be a good idea. 

One of the most important factors about moving for your retirement, let alone downsizing, is your social life. Is your home the host of regular gatherings with friends, family, your community? Or does your house only have an occasional visit from your family or friends? These can not only impact whether you stay put, but also the size of your home should you move. If you love to host parties and events, you may feel less inclined to downsize to smaller homes.

It’s very easy to turn your child’s old bedroom into a storage space. But if you’re doing that, the question you should ask yourself is why. Unused rooms, even those converted to storage, mean more time cleaning and repairing them when you don’t really need. If you have rooms you aren’t using regularly, downsizing may be a good idea.

How Many Of Your Possessions Do You Need?

When we talk about possessions, we’re not referring to keepsakes and heirlooms. We’re talking about everyday items that are simply a part of your home and you could gift to your children or donate to a thrift store. If you have a lot of items you use regularly, you may feel no need to downsize, though there may be opportunities to declutter.

Many people enjoy gardening and taking care of their lawns, others may like doing repairs to their home. But you may not like doing either, and you may find them too expensive to your tastes or too difficult for your body to do. Moving to a smaller home can help reduce the need for maintenance, and moving to a retirement community that takes care of maintenance can be even better.

Depending on how you answer these questions, you may find that downsizing to a smaller home can be the solution. If and when you decide to downsize, Kithward is here to provide you with a variety of retirement communities offering unique floor plans that are just the right size for you.

“Aging in place” is a term used to describe a person’s ability to remain in their home or community of choice for as long as possible, even as their needs for assistance and health care grow and change with age.

According to a recent AARP survey of people aged 65 and over, about 90% of seniors want to age in place. 

For some, this means staying in a home they have resided in for many years. In these cases, seniors and their families must plan thoroughly -- financially and otherwise -- for the home modifications, personal assistance and health care that will become increasingly necessary over time. 

Those who desire to live and remain in a community, however, will need to make sure the community itself can provide the necessary personal assistance and skilled medical care on site. 

While there are some communities that have independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing all together, most independent living facilities are strictly independent. Should a person get sick or fall and require assistance, they will need to move to a different community that offers assisted living or skilled nursing, as the case may be..

There are assisted living facilities that also provide skilled nursing care while others can provide or coordinate hospice care on site. 

One option that allows for aging in place is called a continuing care retirement community (CCRC), also known as a life plan community. Individuals or couples can enter a CCRC as active, independent seniors and enjoy a campus-like community which often boasts amenities such as pools, tennis courts, golf courses, libraries, lounges and multiple restaurants. Residents have a calendar of activities and events from which to choose so they can stay engaged physically, spiritually, creatively, and intellectually. 

Housing at CCRCs can range from single family homes to studio apartments, all with full kitchens and appliances and where home maintenance is taken care of by the community staff. Should a resident need assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, or grooming, or medication management, they can either hire their own private personal aide  or move into the assisted living part of the community. If and when ongoing medical health care is required, they will have skilled nursing available to them as well. CCRCS offer a guarantee that residents will be taken care of as they age.

At Kithward, you can search for CCRCs or explore independent living communities that will allow you to age in place.

Founded in 2003 by The William K. Warren Foundation, Montereau is a locally owned, not-for-profit Life Plan Community dedicated to serving older adults and those who care for them. We offer life-enriching independent living with first-class services and amenities, the financial protection and value of Life Care, and priority access to a continuum of 5-Star-rated* short- and long-term care. Enhanced levels include assisted living, memory support, skilled nursing and rehabilitation.

You’ve discovered Tulsa’s premier not-for-profit retirement community. With hometown roots built on 15 years of service, we’re committed to leading the future of senior living in Tulsa. We do this with a combination of first-rate service, a beautiful and convenient location in the heart of the city, and a culture of gracious camaraderie.

Residents here are a friendly bunch, quick to welcome others. They enjoy retirement confidently, knowing the future is protected by their choice of our health care benefit or the full advantages of Life Care. Every day, those who choose Montereau encounter activities that enrich life, whether it’s a brisk stroll on our winding paths, a lively cocktail party in the City View Lounge or a few hours of relaxing me-time in our spa. As one resident put it, “That’s what Montereau is all about – meeting new friends and engaging in life.”

Surround yourself with activities that interest you, hospitality that enlightens you, and a comfortable sophistication that says, “You’re home.” Montereau is a retirement community brimming with choices for fulfillment. Choose from independent senior living apartments and garden homes that fit your style and provide a hub for your active life.



Montereau

Discover a retirement community dedicated to nurturing the body, mind and spirit of every individual.

You'll meet new neighbors and join with friends who also appreciate living in the beautiful and fashionable Mid-Town Tulsa area.

Here you will find release from the burden of home maintenance and have the freedom to focus on what matters most to you: family, friendships, social engagements, travel, vocational interests, community involvement, hobbies, and other pursuits.

The atmosphere is dynamic but comfortable. The campus is large enough to support an array of services and programs but still small enough for you to know your neighbors.

Experience Oklahoma Methodist Manor for the life you deserve, the security and comfort of a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), and the reassurance that you have made the right choice.

Oklahoma Methodist Manor offers a sizable selection of beautiful homes. You can choose from a spacious, free standing house to a cozy apartment. The OMM Sales Counseling Team is your guide to selecting the right accommodation for you.

Retirement living at Oklahoma Methodist Manor is as individual as you. Whether you choose to live quietly or want to stay busy, this community will support the lifestyle you choose.

Oklahoma Methodist Manor has embraced the Seven Dimensions of Wellness as defined by International Council of Active Aging (ICAA). They are Physical, Intellectual, Emotional, Social, Spiritual, Environmental and Vocational. These dimensions guide the programming and Members can expect OMM's Life Enrichment Team to plan activities and events that entertain, enlighten and enrich through exploration of these seven dimensions.

Relax with a book in one of the libraries or join your friends for coffee in the Tree Top Café. Walk around the lake and enjoy the beauty of the 40-acre campus. Join one of the bridge, Mah Jongg or card/games groups. Come to one of the many Bible studies led by our Chaplain.

The Spann Wellness Center is open 24-7 and there are exercise classes scheduled each day or just meet at the juice bar some morning and join other Members who begin their day with friendly conversation.

Enjoy Tulsa's entertainment districts or attend one of the many community and cultural events and festivals. You are only minutes away from all these venues.

Oklahoma Methodist Manor

Welcome to Saint Simeon’s, a senior living community nestled on 50 serene acres in the Osage Hills of Tulsa, Oklahoma. Saint Simeon’s is a mission of the Episcopal Diocese of Oklahoma. Explore our full range of senior care choices and discover why we are the preferred community for senior living in Tulsa.

COTTAGE LIVING provides charming independent senior living accommodations for individuals with an active lifestyle. One and two-bedroom ranch-style cottages are available. Each independent living cottage has a living room and a full kitchen, and the monthly rate also includes breakfast, lunch and dinner in the Resident Dining Room and all utilities (except telephone and cable).

Many of the independent living cottages have decks that allow residents to sit outside and enjoy nature or host your own backyard party. The yards are maintained by Saint Simeon’s, but you may choose to plant your favorite flowers, shrubs or even a personal garden.

The following services are included in the monthly rate for the independent living cottages in addition to the amenities and services:

Full kitchen in most
Weekly housekeeping services
Weekly flat laundry services (added fee for 2-bedroom with washer/dryer)
Additional in our independent living 2-bedroom units:
Washers and dryers
Fireplace in the living room in most
Carport or garage
Two full baths in most

Saint Simeons 

The Villages at Southern Hills is a senior living complex like no other, offering skilled care, rehabilitation and assisted living services to residents in Tulsa and surrounding areas. At The Villages at Southern Hills, we recognize that sometimes the transition from hospital to home is not easy. That’s why we strive every day to provide consistent quality care and the best rehabilitative services to our residents.

We offer a wide variety of services for today’s seniors. Our programs range from short-term transitional care to bridge the gap between hospital and home to long-term placement for those unable to manage in a more independent environment. We offer extensive physical, occupational and speech therapy as well as other treatments for residents recovering from hip, knee or cardiac surgeries, strokes, wound care, or other injuries and illnesses.

Everything about The Villages at Southern Hills assisted living community has been designed with you in mind. Our approach provides the ideal solution for seniors who need some help with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing and medication reminders. We focus on wellness and keeping residents as independent as possible by providing a tailored plan of assistance. Our residents enjoy beautifully appointed living spaces, delicious meals, engaging social activities, transportation, and personalized assistance and care. In addition, you’ll take comfort in knowing that as your needs may grow and change, your address doesn’t have to. It’s the assistance seniors need with all of the independence they want.

The Villages at Southern Hills provides a full range of exceptional senior living options. Our community offers all of the comforts of home with the added benefit of a team of experienced, caring professionals dedicated to providing you or your loved one with quality care. We offer exceptional care, wellness programs, and social activities in attractive, modern surroundings.

The Villages at Southern Hills provides a living option for every senior, including Respite Care and Skilled Nursing. At every level of retirement living, we are committed to the comfort, safety, enrichment and contentment of our residents.

Senior living at The Villages at Southern Hills provides a rich experience and quality care, surrounded by comfortable, attractive amenities. Residents enjoy spacious rooms filled with their own belongings just steps from common areas offering cozy gathering places, social opportunity and delicious meals.

Every corner of the The Villages at Southern Hills community was designed to make you feel at home. From the cozy common areas, multiple dining rooms we didn’t leave any details unnoticed. Take a look around and you’ll get the feel for the The Villages at Southern Hills lifestyle. You will see that our community offers the best senior living options in the Tulsa area, including: skilled nursing, private suites, a variety of social activities and a caring and experienced staff to provide you with an unmatched level of excellence in service delivery.

These photos provide a glimpse of life at The Villages at Southern Hills in Tulsa. Click through our gallery and you’ll see why The Villages at Southern Hills should be the place where you, or your loved-one, call home.

The Villages At Southern Hills

University Village offers the full spectrum of senior living options including cottage living, independent living, assisted living and a skilled nursing center. Through these continuing levels of care, our residents are able to remain among loved ones, friends, and familiar staff members if their need for assistance or healthcare increases. With spacious floor plans, affordable monthly rates, and a wide range of included amenities, University Village is an exceptional combination of service and value.

Having helped seniors make this transition for more than 40 years, we understand what you and your family are going through. At University Village, we accommodate you and your loved ones to make the transitions in life smoother and more comfortable than you could ever imagine.

Independent Senior Living Apartments at University Village in Tulsa come with so much more! Our apartments are located inside the main building of our campus offering the safety and security you want, access to our fantastic dining experiences for 3 meals a day, and plenty of exciting activities to keep you as busy as you want to be. Rest assured that within inclement weather, all your needs will be met without having to ever step outside.



University Village

Zarrow Pointe is an engaging senior living community rooted in lifelong learning.

Zarrow Pointe is a vibrant and energetic continuum of care community with an outstanding reputation. We incorporate independent living, three levels of assisted living and a twenty-four hour Health Center. Ours is a unique Oklahoma campus, including the internationally acclaimed Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art, the Mizel Jewish Community Day School, the Barbara and Dave Sylvan Auditorium, the Jeanette Altman Frieden Sports Complex and the Charles Schusterman Jewish Community Center.

The Villas offer independent living in a community setting. Our recently completed patio homes are as comfortable as they are luxurious. As a non-profit, Zarrow Pointe offers an affordable entrance fee that keeps you in charge of your finances. The Villas allow you to focus on what matters to you while we take care of maintenance and housework.

The Apartments are a four-story complex that offers the opportunity to live independently in a spacious, newly renovated apartment, while taking advantage of the social atmosphere and wealth of services. If the need arises, assisted living is available in the same apartment without requiring a move. Our gracious and experienced nursing staff provides three levels of care, customized to each resident's needs.


Zarrow Pointe

Located in the sought-after city of Tulsa in the foothills of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, Bellarose is the clear choice for today’s dynamic retirees and their families. Life at Bellarose revolves around personal freedom and optimal health. Comfortable surroundings, social activities, delicious meals, accommodating associates and a prime location come together in this unique community to form a fresh and vivacious lifestyle.

Bellarose modernizes and redefines the retirement experience. Our independent living apartments offer chef-prepared dining, daily activities planned around our residents’ interests, scheduled transportation to and from shopping and appointments, and a variety of social outings. Our pet-friendly community also offers washer/dryer hookups and housekeeping services, plus apartment maintenance, allowing you to have the freedom to pursue the lifestyle you enjoy.



Bellarose Senior Living

Tulsa

Search for the perfect senior independent living community in Tulsa, OK and explore communities in its neighborhoods.

Independent Living in Tulsa, OK - Kithward

Enjoy city life and the great outdoors together when you retire to Tulsa! T-Town and its retirement communities have access to both excellent outdoor fun and cultural activities abound.

If you like a taste of both big city living and outdoor living, you can’t go wrong with retiring in Tulsa. Active adult communities in T-Town have access to not only great cultural and entertainment options, but also wondrous natural beauty both in and around the city. For those days when you feel the need for fresh air, the city’s 135 parks will get you going. In particular, you can hike through the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area, or kayak on the Arkansas River that cuts through the city. Golfers will enjoy the many golf courses in Tulsa, including the world-famous Southern Hills Country Club.

If you’re more in the mood to feel inspired or entertained, Tulsa also has you covered. Its downtown is home to many surviving examples of Art Deco architecture. The Philbrook and Gilcrease Museums offer extensive art collections, many focusing on the history of Native American culture. If you want to catch live music, you can enjoy it in Cain’s Ballroom or Osage Casino as well.

Find your perfect senior independent living community in Tulsa, OK

Enjoy city life and the great outdoors together when you retire to Tulsa! T-Town and its retirement communities have access to both excellent outdoor fun and cultural activities abound.

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What Makes Retirement Communities? Activities, Of Course!

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