A new year. A new lease on life.

January heralds the arrival of a new year, full of new possibilities. It is a time when many of us take stock of where we are at in our lives, and how we could improve our lives moving forward. For many seniors it may be time to consider changing their living arrangements. Perhaps the holidays revealed some of the challenges that can occur when living secluded in our later years, or maybe a family caregiver is no longer able to assist with the day to day tasks of helping a relative. Like the beginning of a new year, there can be apprehension about what the future may hold with making a major lifestyle change, but there should also be excitement, because the advantages of this fresh start are bountiful. An assisted living facility helps seniors care for themselves while also offering access to an active and rewarding lifestyle. At the same time, when families no longer have to meet all of their loved ones’ needs alone, it can improve family relationships and reduce stress. Like a child entering a new school, he or she may find the room full of active and laughing groups a bit daunting at first, but in no time at all fast friends are made and the spiritedness returns. The sense of community and relief from the stress of maintaining a home can give a new lease on life in this new year.