Boomers Redefine Retirement

By Sue Cullen

As a generation that brought massive changes in everything from societal issues and music to lifestyles and hairstyles, baby boomers also are shaking things up when it comes to retirement living. This is a generation marked by interesting contrasts. Independent yet valuing community involvement. Self-indulgent (at least in their youth) but also hardworking and diet and health conscious. While these generalizations don’t apply to every boomer, there are consistencies when it comes to retirement. Doing it their way, and being more proactive about planning their futures are hallmarks of the boomer generation.

Plymouth Harbor, a life plan community on Sarasota Bay which offers a continuum of care from independent living, assisted living/memory care through skilled nursing, is already addressing these differences as the boomer generation ponders its golden years (941.365.2600). “Boomers are far more proactive than previous generations. We are seeing a younger audience getting on our wait list. The average age is going down to the late 60s and early 70s with their desired timeframe for moving here between 75 and 80,” said Gordon Okawa, Vice President of Marketing and Community Affairs. “They want to have an active part of what happens to them as they age and direct it.”

Previous generations often defined independence as remaining in their homes as long as possible. Boomers have experienced the sometimes-unfortunate outcomes for loved ones who have taken this approach. They understand the toll a lack of planning takes on the entire family. “Boomers understand that anything can happen, and when it comes to health issues, that’s something they have no control over,” Okawa said. “They’ve seen others who are desperate and looking for a place to go at an older age. These people waited too long, and boomers don’t want that to happen to them. It’s a reality check for some families who are very pragmatic and willing to listen. That’s the trend we are seeing.”

One way Plymouth Harbor is adapting to baby boomers’ preferences is by becoming more engaged through social media and connecting through Facebook and Instagram. Another area that has seen a complete makeover is its Wellness Center, which underwent more than $1 million in renovations. The former fitness facility was transformed into a 10,000-square-foot space that not only provides a place for state-of-the-art workouts—with spectacular views of Sarasota Bay—but also has become a natural gathering space for residents to socialize.

“Our residents come here vibrant and want to stay active as they age. They want to be able to continue kayaking and using their stand up paddle boards, and we try to integrate what they want in what we offer,” said Wellness Director Summer Rentsch. “We’re getting a biking group together and are putting in a new kayak launch. We also have 30 class options for residents each week.” These cover a variety of fitness levels ranging from a dynamic Total Fitness class to sit fit sessions that allow a wide range of movement for those who are concerned about stability.

The classes also address a multitude of interests with yoga, tai chi and meditation as well as various styles of dancing and a range of water workouts for the indoor and outdoor pools. Rentsch finds that boomers also are more aware about their health in general. “They are all about eating to manage their health,” she said. “Residents may be managing a chronic condition or there’s some health issue within the family that is starting to creep up. They are much more proactive, and that is a big shift.”

This has meant new dining options with gluten free and organic choices and continued emphasis on other stimulating enrichment and social opportunities for which Plymouth Harbor has been known. A modern performing arts hall hosts a variety of lectures and performances, and residents have access to an artists’ studio and wood/hobby shop.

The design of the building itself fosters whatever degree of connection someone wants. Independent living areas are divided into “neighborhoods” of 18 to 25 residences called Colonies, which provide a natural initial social group for new residents. Cultivating an environment that is welcoming for a diverse population of residents also is an important goal, Okawa said. “Plymouth Harbor has always attracted those who look to stay relevant and connected to community. We manage the health component, security, and maintenance for our residents. That frees people up, and the planners see this for themselves,” he said. ”We are affirming what boomers are already feeling, and that is the main message we send. Plan ahead.”