“When people move into a social-based retirement community, they find that the engagement, the excitement, and the involvement way exceed their expectations,” Erickson says.

A ‘life-changing’ transition made easier
As Sedgebrook’s resident services coordinator, Alicia Kavalunas is very familiar with the transition into retirement.

“Transitioning into community living, as well as aging, is probably one of the biggest events our seniors go through,” she says. “We recognize that at Sedgebrook and have developed support systems to assist in this transition.”

In the two and a half years she has lived at Sedgebrook, Bazell has taken advantage of the many activities and social gatherings the community offers. She is a member of the entertainment committee and works as a volunteer at the Treasure  Chest, the community’s onsite resale shop.

“I think the number of activities to get involved in makes a big difference,” Bazell says.

It’s not only the array of activities, but the people who make Sedgebrook a great place to retire. Whether it’s at Friday afternoon happy hours or dinner at the Shoreline restaurant, community members have ample opportunities to get to know one another.

In fact, Bazell says she’s made so many new friends at Sedgebrook that it is challenging for her to keep up with her friends outside of the community because she has so many companions right at home!

Free time—and friends to enjoy it with
Living at Sedgebrook makes it easier for people to enjoy free time because they don’t have to worry about things like grocery shopping, cooking, or house maintenance and repairs. All maintenance to the apartment homes and one meal a day are included in the monthly service package.

Erickson points out that living in your house starts to lose value as you get older. Your kids have moved out, so you are left with a lot of extra space you don’t need. And things like stairs can be difficult for older adults, especially those who suffer from arthritis.

“Then you have all of the maintenance issues,” Erickson says. “There’s much better use of your time and energy when you’re 75 than maintaining your home.”

For Bazell, that free time is now spent doing things like traveling with friends through Sedgebrook’s travel club. So far the group has visited Springfield and Branson, Mo., and is planning an upcoming excursion to Door County, Wisc.

“I really like living here because there is so much to do,” she says.

Retirement is an exciting life change, but it can bring with it some unexpected surprises. The lack of structure and social interaction that work provided can leave some people unsure of how to fill their days with meaning. But with some planning, and an appetite for adventure, you can make the most of your retirement.

1. Embrace change: Know that your retirement will be a major life change and prepare for it like you would any other transition—talk to other people who have been through it and make sure you are ready, both emotionally and financially.
2. Stay involved: Now that you don’t have to report for work every morning, your days are yours to spend as you please. Fill them with activities that you’ve always wanted to pursue—join a book club, volunteer at a hospital, or learn how to sail—the choice is up to you!
3. Get in shape: As you get older, it’s more important than ever to get regular physical activity. Team up with friends to take a brisk walk every morning, swim laps at your local gym, or enroll in a yoga class. If you’re in good physical health, you’ll be better able to enjoy all that retirement has to offer.
4. You are what you eat: Don’t let your newfound free time be an excuse to load up on junk foods. Consult with your  physician to make sure you’re eating a balanced diet that will help you maintain good health for many years to come.
5. Create a routine: Leisure time is great, but you should still maintain a routine when you’re retired. Try to get up at the same time each morning, and fill your week with activities you enjoy so you’ll be more inclined to stick to your schedule.