BELLEFONTE—When someone first moves into an over-55 apartment building, they may not be sure what to expect. For many, it’s the first time they’ve lived alone since their early adulthood. Some are couples, empty nesters who’ve downsized to an easier (they hope) lifestyle.
A quiet life is perfect for some individuals. These are tenants who are seldom seen except in the mailroom or by the elevator. However, for those who crave company or activities, one local building in Bellefonte provides plenty of that.
Megan Wagner, manager of Graystone Court Villas, a luxury senior apartment building off the Benner Pike, plans to ensure that the residents have access to new activities and experiences year-round. From potlucks at Christmas to Cinco de Mayo celebrations, craft shows and garage sales, Wagner helps make apartment living fun. Monday nights at Graystone Court Villa are game nights. During game night you will find weekly regulars sitting in their usual spots and new faces playing cards, mahjong and more. There are regular poker games, plus a book club and much more each week.
Games and socialization have been proven positive forces in preserving mental acuity in the senior age group. Physical health is maintained and strengthened by regular exercise such as yoga, strength training and walking. At Graystone residents can take part in 30-minute exercise classes daily throughout the week. Most of these sessions are intended to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility and balance, which is so important for the older population.
Musical groups are often invited to entertain Graystone residents. Singing groups, choirs and young students from local high schools have performed, connecting different generations through music. Recently Miss Bellefonte and Miss Central Mountain visited during a breakfast event.
Miss Bellefonte, Kate Harman, is a senior at Bellefonte High School. While attending, she explained more about the process of getting her title.
“Any junior girl can apply to become Miss Bellefonte. There is an application process. It’s based on character, appearance, academic achievement and involvement in the community,” Harman said. “I had to submit a list of all my activities, a GPA and a picture. All the teachers vote. I will get to crown the new Miss Bellefonte next week.”
During her visit, she shared that she will attend Lock Haven University in the fall to study elementary education.
Maia Crowell, from Central Mountain High School, also attended the breakfast and spent time with the residents of Graystone Court Villa. During the visit, she represented her school, much like Harman served Bellefonte High. Crowell will study telecommunications at Penn State in the fall semester.
Both young women helped serve the residents. They took time to speak with the residents, and if the smiles on the residents’ faces were any indication, their presence was a wonderful way to spend the morning.
When two generations or more come together for an event, like the breakfast at Graystone, both generations benefit. Socialization is key to staying sharp in the later years and a new, fresh perspective is welcome and entertaining, whether you’re 18 or 81.
Moving into an over-55 apartment building is a great way to connect with people in a similar stage of life as you. However, it also provides the opportunity to engage with different youth programs, community activities, events and more. So, while a quiet life is perfect for some individuals, for those looking for comradery in senior living spaces, a place like Graystone Court Villas may be the perfect fit.
