A senior living resident-managed trust fund has collected more than $1 million in its almost 40-year existence, funding major improvements that benefit the entire Indiana continuing care retirement / life plan community where the residents live.
One of the many benefits of living in the senior apartments at Westminster Village Terre Haute is the opportunity to make your living space truly your own. By personalizing your independent living space, you can create a home that reflects your personality and provides a sense of warmth and comfort. Here are five practical tips to help you transform your apartment into a place that feels uniquely yours.
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Showcase Your Memories with Photographs
At Westminster Village, we believe everyone has a story to share. Photographs can beautifully capture the journey of your life and help you share those special moments with others. Displaying photos of family, friends, and memorable events adds a deeply personal touch to your space. Consider using a digital photo frame that rotates through a collection of images, allowing you to share a wide array of memories. As your journey continues, you can easily update the frame with new pictures, keeping your story alive and dynamic.
Bring Life Indoors with Plants
Adding plants to your apartment is a wonderful way to create a vibrant, lively atmosphere. Plants can improve air quality, enhance your mood, and reduce stress. If you prefer low-maintenance options, consider succulents or snake plants, which require minimal care. For those who enjoy gardening, flowering plants or herbs can add both beauty and fragrance to your home. Plants also make a great hobby and can provide a sense of accomplishment as you nurture them. Choose pots that match your decor for an added layer of personalization.
Learn more about life at Westminster Village here.
Create a Space for Socialization
A key part of thriving in independent living is staying socially connected. Personalize your space to encourage interaction with friends and family. Arrange seating areas that are comfortable and inviting, and consider adding a table for board games, puzzles, or small gatherings. At Westminster Village, we encourage residents to connect with one another through shared experiences. By creating a welcoming space for socialization, you’ll foster meaningful relationships and enjoy the many benefits of an active community.
Enhance Your Space with Wall Art
Personalized wall art can turn your apartment into a gallery that reflects your unique taste and interests. Whether it’s a favorite painting, framed artwork from family, or pieces that you’ve collected over the years, wall art provides an excellent way to make your space feel familiar and inviting. Art not only adds visual appeal but also serves as a conversation starter for visitors. Every piece of art tells a story, allowing your guests to get a glimpse of your personality, values, and experiences.
Optimize Lighting for Comfort and Style
Lighting plays a crucial role in making your space comfortable and functional. Soft lighting from table or floor lamps creates a warm and cozy environment, while also being more inviting than harsh overhead lights. Look for adjustable lamps that allow you to control the brightness according to your needs. Maximize natural light by keeping windows unobstructed during the day. Natural sunlight not only brightens your home but also promotes better sleep and boosts your overall well-being.
At Westminster Village Terre Haute, we’re dedicated to helping residents thrive in their independent living spaces. From modern amenities to a vibrant community, we’re here to support your journey every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about the spaces we offer and how you can begin your retirement journey with Westminster Village.
Residents of Westminster Village, a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) in Terre Haute, are demonstrating their pride and commitment to their home by voluntarily contributing to the Resident Trust Fund. This resident-managed initiative allows for major improvements that benefit the entire community, strengthening the bond between those who live and work at Westminster Village.
Recently, the Resident Trust Fund has made possible the purchase of:
- A New Branded Bus – Ensuring safe and reliable transportation for outings and events.
- A Yamaha 5’8” Grand Piano – Bringing live music and performances into the community.
- Essential Kitchen Upgrades – Significant investments in new equipment, such as combination ovens, a tilt soup kettle, a salamander broiler, and a high-capacity char broiler to enhance the dining experience.
“At Westminster Village, we believe senior living communities thrive when residents have a true sense of ownership,” said Colleen Matthews, Executive Director. “At Westminster Village, we’re proving that residents can take initiative and make meaningful contributions to their home.”
The Resident Trust Fund is overseen by the Westminster Village Trust Committee, a dedicated group of residents who evaluate and approve purchases based on community needs.
Westminster Village provides independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing services. To learn more or schedule a tour, visit westminstervillagein.com.
As we reflect on our progress and look ahead, we want to share updates about the future of Westminster Village Terre Haute.
Click here to read a letter from our Executive Director, Colleen Matthews!
Moving into an independent living space is a significant life transition. One crucial step in this process is downsizing—a task that can initially feel daunting but often becomes a rewarding and liberating experience. Many seniors find that downsizing frees them from maintenance responsibilities and financial burdens, enabling them to embrace a more joyful and carefree phase of life. At Westminster Village Terre Haute, we understand the challenges of this process and want to offer three practical tips to make your downsizing journey smoother and more fulfilling.
Start Planning Early
Downsizing takes time, especially when dealing with years—or even decades—of accumulated belongings. This is why it’s vital to start planning early. Giving yourself enough time to work through the process gradually allows you to make thoughtful decisions and reduces the stress often associated with rushed choices.
Start by sorting your belongings into four main categories:
- Keep: Reserve this category for items you will regularly use in your new home or hold deep sentimental value, such as family heirlooms, photo albums, or a cherished piece of art.
- Share: Consider passing down items with emotional ties to loved ones or donating them to charities where they can continue to bring joy and purpose.
- Sell: Host a yard sale or sell online to earn extra cash for your move. This can help turn unused items into a resource for your new chapter.
- Trash: Dispose of items that no longer serve a purpose and can’t be repurposed. Decluttering in this way often brings a sense of liberation, leaving space for new memories to form.
Starting early also gives you the space to reflect on your belongings and determine which items hold the most sentimental value. Sorting through possessions at a steady pace can bring clarity and peace of mind, making the entire experience less overwhelming. Instead of feeling pressured to declutter quickly, you can focus on enjoying the journey of rediscovering cherished memories while preparing for a seamless transition to independent living.
Learn if now is the right time to downsize
Downsize One Room at a Time
Rather than attempting to tackle your entire home at once, break the downsizing process into manageable steps by focusing on one room at a time. This strategic approach helps you avoid feeling overwhelmed and allows you to celebrate small victories along the way. Completing one room can serve as motivation to move on to the next, building momentum and confidence as you progress. Start with smaller rooms, as they’re often quicker and easier to sort through. This can provide an early sense of accomplishment, making the overall process less intimidating. As you go through each room, consider creating a checklist to keep track of your progress. Marking completed rooms off your list can serve as a tangible reminder of how much you’ve achieved.
Know Your New Living Space
One of the keys to a successful downsizing experience is knowing the floor plan and dimensions of your new living space. At Westminster Village in Terre Haute, we offer thoughtfully designed floor plans tailored to meet the needs of our residents. Whether you choose a cozy villa in a quiet neighborhood or a spacious one- or two-bedroom apartment, our layouts provide the perfect blend of comfort and functionality. Understanding the size and layout of your new space helps you make informed decisions about which furniture and belongings to bring. For instance, knowing the exact measurements of your new living room can guide you in selecting the right-sized sofa or deciding if a cherished dining table will fit. By planning ahead, you can create a personalized and comfortable living environment that reflects your preferences.
Downsizing is more than just a physical process; it’s an opportunity to simplify your life and focus on what truly matters. At Westminster Village Terre Haute, our senior living community provides a vibrant and social environment where residents can thrive. By planning early, tackling one room at a time, and understanding your new space, you can make the transition to independent living a smooth and enjoyable experience. Contact us today to learn more about our community, explore our floor plans, and discover how we can help you embrace this exciting new chapter of life.
Finding senior housing communities that fit all your needs can be difficult. There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing your retirement destination, but no matter where you live, you want to make the most of your retirement. At Westminster Village, we offer a variety of opportunities to do just that. So here are our tips to making the most of your retirement in Terre Haute.
Engage in Social Activities
Social connection is more than just a way to pass the time—it’s a key to maintaining mental, emotional, and physical health. Engaging with others helps reduce stress, combat loneliness, and boost your mood. At Westminster Village, we provide countless ways to stay connected and build meaningful relationships with fellow retirees.
Our Community Life Department creates a robust calendar of activities specifically designed to encourage interaction and engagement. Residents can participate in a variety of clubs, classes, and events that cater to a wide range of interests. From poetry readings to ukulele lessons, there’s always an opportunity to learn, connect, and share experiences.
In addition to structured activities, Westminster Village thrives on a sense of community by encouraging informal gatherings, communal spaces, and resident-hosted events. These opportunities allow for spontaneous moments of connection, transforming our community into a place that truly feels like home.
Outside of our campus, Terre Haute, Indiana offers numerous venues for social interaction. Whether it’s meeting friends at a local coffee shop, attending community events, or volunteering with local organizations, the city provides retirees with endless ways to stay socially active.
Learn more about the opportunities at Westminster Village
Focus on Your Health
At Westminster Village, we emphasize wellness, offering programs and amenities designed to support a healthy lifestyle. Our on-site fitness center features state-of-the-art equipment and is staffed by a certified fitness manager trained by the National Institute for Fitness. Available five days a week, our fitness instructor works with residents to create personalized exercise plans tailored to their unique needs and goals.
Whether you’re participating in group yoga sessions, engaging in strength training, or enjoying a morning walk around our beautifully landscaped campus, there’s always an opportunity to move your body and strengthen your health. Regular exercise not only enhances your physical capabilities but also boosts your immunity and uplifts your mood, ensuring you’re ready to embrace each day with vitality.
For those who prefer outdoor activities, Terre Haute offers a range of scenic parks and trails perfect for walking, biking, or simply enjoying nature. The city’s emphasis on green spaces provides retirees with serene settings to maintain an active lifestyle while connecting with the beauty of the outdoors.
Enjoy Local Attractions
Terre Haute is a growing town rich in culture, history, and opportunities for exploration. Whether you’re a history buff, art enthusiast, or nature lover, there’s something in Terre Haute to captivate your interest. Downtown Terre Haute is the heart of the city, offering a mix of historic charm and modern attractions. Stroll through its streets to discover unique boutiques, local eateries, and vibrant cultural landmarks. For art lovers, the Sheldon Swope Art Museum is a must-visit destination. Its extensive collection includes murals, sculptures, and diverse works of realism and abstraction that appeal to a wide audience.
For those interested in history, the Candles Holocaust Museum provides a profound and educational experience. Other local highlights include the Terre Haute Symphony Orchestra and the Indiana State University Performing Arts Center, which host events and performances throughout the year. Living in Terre Haute means having all these cultural treasures within easy reach, allowing retirees to enjoy a fulfilling and enriching lifestyle without needing to venture far.
Take Up Hobbies
Retirement is the perfect time to rediscover old passions or explore new interests. Engaging in hobbies not only provides a sense of purpose but also encourages creativity and mental stimulation. At Westminster Village, we’re dedicated to helping residents embrace their passions and uncover new ones.
Music is a significant part of life at Westminster Village. Our community regularly hosts symphony performances that allow residents to relax, unwind, and connect through the power of music. Beyond listening, residents have opportunities to actively engage with music by learning instruments, singing, or joining group performances.
For those who prefer more hands-on activities, our workshops and classes provide opportunities to explore everything from painting and crafting to gardening and cooking. Each program is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, regardless of skill level, making it easy for everyone to participate and grow.
Exploring hobbies isn’t limited to our campus. Terre Haute’s vibrant community offers numerous options for retirees to dive into their interests. From art galleries and music classes to public gardens and community theaters, the city’s rich array of resources ensures there’s always something new to explore.
Retirement is a time to embrace life’s possibilities, and Terre Haute offers an ideal setting for doing just that. Whether you’re engaging in social activities, focusing on your health, exploring local attractions, or diving into new hobbies, Westminster Village provides the foundation for a rich and fulfilling retirement. Contact us today to see more on how Westminster Village can help you enhance and enjoy your retirement living.
Transitioning into independent living is an exciting opportunity for older adults to embrace a lifestyle of convenience, community, and freedom. Whether you’re considering this change for yourself or a loved one, the process can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. This blog uses insights from our community, Westminster Village Terre Haute to explore how to navigate the transition smoothly.
What is Independent Living?
A key step in making the move into independent living is understanding what it is. Independent living is designed for aging adults who want to maintain their autonomy while enjoying the benefits of a supportive and maintenance-free environment. Our community gives you ultimate freedom to enjoy life at your own pace. For a living space, you can choose from two distinctive residential options—villas and spacious apartment homes. With minimal adjustment from everyday life, independent living communities offer an easy entry point into senior care. A unique feature of Westminster Village is that Terre Haute residents have easy access to higher levels of care, if the need arises. This means our residents, from independent living onward, can enjoy the peace of mind that their current and future needs can be met on one campus.
Independent living is more than just a housing option—it’s a gateway to a fulfilling lifestyle. Imagine having the freedom to focus on hobbies, relationships, and new experiences while leaving chores and maintenance to someone else. This is the promise of retiring with Westminster Village.
Learn if now is the right time to downsize
Deciding if Now is the Right Time for Independent Living
Deciding to transition into independent living begins with understanding your current lifestyle and future needs. Many seniors move into independent living because they want a simpler lifestyle, reduced home maintenance, or greater access to community and social activities. Communities like Westminster Village Terre Haute, Indiana are designed to enhance this stage of life with amenities and services that promote convenience and connection.
To help determine if independent living is the right fit, consider these steps:
- Evaluate your daily needs and responsibilities. Take stock of how much time and energy you currently spend on home maintenance, yard work, and other tasks. Are these becoming a burden?
- Identify your social and lifestyle goals. Think about whether you want more opportunities to engage with others, pursue hobbies, or explore new interests in a supportive community setting.
- Consider your health and wellness priorities. Even if you’re fully independent, think about how access to on-site amenities, wellness programs, and dining services could improve your quality of life.
- Talk to family or trusted advisors. Discuss your thoughts and concerns with loved ones. Their insights may help you clarify your priorities and make an informed decision.
- Visit potential communities. Schedule tours to see firsthand how communities like Westminster Village Terre Haute, Indiana can meet your expectations.
By taking these steps, you can gain a clearer picture of whether independent living aligns with your current needs and long-term goals.
Planning Your Move
Once you’ve chosen the perfect independent living community, such as Westminster Village Terre Haute, planning your move becomes the next important step. While moving can feel daunting, breaking the process into manageable tasks will help ensure a smooth transition.
Here are some actionable steps to guide your move:
- Start with a downsizing plan. Go through your belongings and categorize them into “keep,” “donate,” and “discard” groups. Focus on retaining items that hold sentimental or practical value for your new lifestyle.
- Create a timeline. Set deadlines for decluttering, packing, and scheduling movers to stay organized and reduce last-minute stress.
- Pack strategically. Begin with non-essential items, then move on to everyday essentials closer to your moving date. Label boxes clearly to make unpacking easier.
- Arrange your space in advance. If possible, get a layout of your new apartment and plan where your furniture and personal items will go. This will save time and effort on moving day.
- Seek help when needed. Don’t hesitate to enlist family, friends, or professional movers to assist with packing and logistics. Many independent living communities, including Westminster Village, offer resources to help with the transition.
By following these steps, you can make your move to independent living an organized and exciting process. Taking time to prepare will allow you to focus on enjoying your new home and the vibrant community that awaits. Our community has created a list of resources to help you navigate this transition here. We also host events with various experts to help equip you and your loved ones to make the move. Contact us today to learn more about our next event.
Settling In and Building Your New Routine
Moving into independent living marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. Once you’ve arrived at your new home, like those at Westminster Village Terre Haute, Indiana it’s time to focus on settling in and establishing a fulfilling routine.
Here are some actionable steps to make the transition smoother:
- Unpack thoughtfully. Begin by arranging your most-used items first to create a sense of familiarity. Personalize your space with photos, artwork, and keepsakes to make it feel like home.
- Explore the community. Take a walk around the property to familiarize yourself with key areas such as the dining room, fitness center, and social spaces.
- Engage with neighbors. Introduce yourself to other residents by attending group events, joining clubs, or simply saying hello. Building connections early can help you feel more at ease.
- Participate in activities. Check the community calendar for classes, workshops, or social gatherings that match your interests. Engaging in activities will help you integrate into the community and discover new passions.
- Establish a routine. Create a daily schedule that includes time for exercise, hobbies, meals, and relaxation. A structured routine will provide stability and help you feel more at home.
By taking these steps, you’ll quickly find your place in the community and begin to enjoy the independence and opportunities that independent living offers. With time, your new space will feel like home.
Transitioning into independent living is an opportunity to embrace a lifestyle of freedom, connection, and convenience. By taking the time to assess your needs, plan your move carefully, and settle into your new routine, you can make this process seamless and rewarding. Contact us today to learn more about our independent living options, upcoming events, or to schedule a visit. Let us help you discover the opportunities that await at Westminster Village Terre Haute.
