Retirement and Active Adult Living
Due to the wide array of choice available to San Antonio seniors, retirement communities are very competitive, which is a plus for consumers because they can shop around to ensure the right one matches their lifestyle.

Before making a selection, review this checklist:
  • Word-of-mouth referrals from friends, relatives or professional contacts are important.
  • Once a community is selected, visit the location several times at different times of the day.
  • Ask the managing directors how long they have been in operation and who owns them.
  • Find out about the activities and services offered, including:
– Beauty shop
– Pool
– Spa
– Activity Calendar offerings

ENJOYING LIFE AFTER 55
There are many advantages for seniors who live in the San Antonio region. The year-round temperate climate provides opportunities for many outdoor activities, such as swimming, hiking, walking and golfing. As the third largest airport in the world in 2008 in terms of passenger activity, DFW Airport is served by 20 international and domestic airlines and offers nonstop service to more than 173 worldwide destinations. For newcomers, it doesn’t take long to make friends and share interests. There are many opportunities to enjoy the sights and sounds of the region, including organized visits to museums, local theater and concert venues. If volunteering is of interest to you, there are plenty of organizations that are interested in your participation, and there are agencies to help you find a job.

LOCAL RESOURCES
To support the needs of an aging population, there are local and specialized resources, including AARP. Anyone who is over 50 can join, and you don’t have to be retired. The organization offers many services and opportunities for community involvement, including volunteering. You can learn more by visiting the national website at www.aarp.org.

Serving the needs of San Antonio’s 50 and older population, OASIS has been part of the community for more than 17 years. Members participate in a variety of challenging programs that enrich the mind, renew past interests and develop new talents. Classes range from arts and humanities to consumer interest, fitness and health. You can also volunteer your services where you can share your skills, help others in the aging community and tutor children who are learning to read. Learn more at www.oasisnet.org or by calling (210) 647-2546.

55Plus is a free program from Methodist Healthcare System (www.mhshealth.com) that provides benefits for people over 55, including free exercise classes, health screenings, CPR, free physician referral, social activities and educational programs. If the need arises, you’re also entitled to a 10 percent discount at the Methodist Hospital Outpatient Pharmacy at time of discharge, complimentary guests meal (one coupon to use per day per family), complimentary transportation for inpatient admissions, homemaker services after inpatient discharge from a Methodist Healthcare System facility and other services. Call (210) 575-0355 to learn more.

Nix Health Care Foundation sponsors Nix Senior Gold. Designed in partnership with physicians, it is a senior health and wellness program for adults from age 55. Benefits of the program include health care discounts, discounts in the Nix cafeteria and with Nix valet parking, hospitalization benefits, preventive health services, and educational and informative programs. Referrals for physicians and specialized services are also available. Visit the website at www.nixhealth.com/SeniorGold or call (210) 579-3157.

The University Health System – Bob Ross Senior Health Center offers healthcare community resources to seniors including health screenings and disease self-management classes. The center offers free health screenings including blood pressure, Body Mass Index (BMI)/weight, glucose (blood sugar), cholesterol, glaucoma and hearing. Classes offered include salsa caliente, smoking cessation, fitness, water aerobics, fall prevention and CPR. Seniors can also participate at health fairs that are periodically available. The Bob Ross Senior Health Center is also a “one-stop” clearinghouse for senior services and information and is owned and operated by the city of San Antonio and Bexar County. The 24,000 square-foot center hosts comprehensive services to seniors 60+, focusing on case management, health and wellness, education, exercise, social and cultural activities and volunteer opportunities. In San Antonio, the center is located at 2219 Babcock, (210) 207-5332.

The city of San Antonio’s Parks and Recreation Department – Programs for Seniors Programming are offered at three facilities: Commander’s House, Lion’s Field Adult and Senior Citizen’s Center and Granados Adult and Senior Activity Center. Visit www.sanantonio.gov/sapar/seniors.asp to learn more.

Alamo Area Agency on Aging provides aging services directly or through others for congregate, home delivered meals, transportation, information and referral, benefits counseling, ombudsman and care coordination services. Visit www.alamoaging.org or call (210) 362-5200.

ELDER CARE HOUSING OPTIONS
Many Americans are moving into their retirement years while also tending to the care of a parent or elderly relative. As a caregiver it is important to understand what options are available for your loved one especially if you are the primary decision-maker for them. There are a number of lifestyle choices depending on the person’s physical condition and the level of care required to live comfortably. In the San Antonio region, the housing options run the gamut from assisted living facilities to Alzheimer care facilities to resort-style neighborhoods. These facilities offer accommodations that provide a dignified standard of living while professionals oversee the residents’ well-being.

   
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