Wellness at Blakehurst

Wellness is one of those new-age terms that makes people slightly suspicious. But studies at Life Plan Communities and our own experience show that when older adults exercise regularly, eat healthily, connect with others and continue learning, they live healthier, happier lives. Our HealthyLife^® Services program helps them do just that. It offers activities and opportunities in four key areas for maintaining optimum health: fitness, nutrition, active life and well-being.

Here’s a look at the many dimensions of wellness we support.

Physical wellness – Our fitness center offers three levels of classes geared to residents’ individual needs and abilities. Popular classes designed for seniors include balance classes, water aerobics, yoga and drumming — all led by instructors certified by the National Institute for Fitness and Sport. Nutrition is also part of physical wellness. Our dietician works with our culinary team to ensure we cater to diverse resident tastes and needs.

Social wellness – Participating in social activities helps you feel less isolated and may even add years to your life. At Blakehurst, residents have a wealth of opportunities to connect with others and make new friends. There are special interest clubs, classes, committees, outings, Happy Hours, plus annual celebrations including the September Crab Fest and December Holiday Gala. See our activity calendar for more.

Emotional wellness – Support for the challenges that come with aging gives residents comfort and strength in difficult times. This may come in the form of grief and mental health counseling, informal circles of friends, or interactions with staff members. You’ll always have someone looking out for you at Blakehurst.

Intellectual wellness – Being intellectually engaged boosts your mood and may improve your thinking ability. Brain games, book clubs, educational seminars and Osher Lifelong Learning classes through Johns Hopkins University are just some of the ways Blakehurst residents stay sharp.

Vocational wellness – Just because you’re retired doesn’t mean you can’t do meaningful work. Serving on resident committees, volunteering on- and off-campus, leading discussion groups and mentoring offer opportunities for vocational wellness. Doing good for others has social, mental and physical benefits for you as well.

Environmental wellness – A warm and comfortable environment enhances residents’ lives. Gardens, green spaces and walking paths offer a breath of fresh air in a beautiful natural setting. Indoors, there are inviting spaces for relaxing with friends or burying your nose in a good book. Staff members also go out of their way to brighten your day.

Blakehurst has been awarded a Level 1 Accreditation by the ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program and The Morton Arboretum for achieving particular standards of professional practices deemed important for arboreta and botanic gardens. Blakehurst is also now recognized as an accredited arboretum in the Morton Register of Arboreta, a database of the world’s arboreta and gardens dedicated to woody plants. Read more.

Spiritual wellness – A strong spiritual sense can offer hope, strength and peace. Blakehurst residents can nurture their spiritual selves through worship services, meditation, religious studies, music performances and more.

Health services – Residents benefit from a variety of services designed to support their health needs. That includes everything from wellness programs and preventive health screenings to therapy services and higher levels of care. If you have a question about any of our health services, our Health and Wellness Navigator can connect you with the resources you need. 

The Health and Wellness Navigator is your point person for anything health related. For example, the Navigator can connect you with a fitness instructor or activities director to get you involved with classes that align with your interests and goals. If you need home health services in your independent living apartment, the Navigator can help arrange it. Whatever it is — going from the hospital to rehabilitation or transitioning to a higher level of care at Chestnut Green Health Center — the Navigator is here to help you every step of the way.

To learn how our wellness programs can improve your quality of life, get in touch.