Finding Joy in Life’s Changes
The only constant in life is change. That’s as true today as it was in ancient Greece, when philosopher Heraclitus said you cannot step into the same river twice. It is also a reality of aging that shines a spotlight on the importance of adapting. The desire and ability to adjust to life’s inevitable challenges is the third pillar of Dr. Kerry Burnight’s book, “Joyspan.”
Growing older brings curveballs. As Burnight explains in the book, those who experience happier years in the second half of life have the ability to take what life hands them, to feel it, lean into it, and then adapt to move forward. These individuals exhibit greater emotional resilience in the face of health challenges, the loss of loved ones, or reduced physical abilities, helping them recover from the common setbacks of aging more easily.
Burnight cautions against viewing aging only through a lens of decline, however. She points out that as they get older, people often develop a greater appreciation for their connections, for nature, music, and art. They also have greater opportunities to expand themselves spiritually. As discussed in this blog series, the opportunities for lifelong learning and social activities at Lenbrook keep many residents on a path of growth and connection that is vital to an increased joyspan.
Sometimes adapting means discovering a new way to participate in a favorite activity. It may mean exploring new interests, accepting support from others, or adjusting expectations. Adapting does not have to mean managing change alone.
One of the many advantages of living at Lenbrook is having access to resources and support that help residents respond to life’s transitions with confidence. One example is the LIVE department (Lenbrook Individuals are Vital and Engaged), a dedicated team and support system designed to help residents and their families address short- or long-term bumps in the road.
“Our LIVE team is dedicated to helping residents navigate transitional periods in their lives and providing quick access to resources that make life a little easier, said Cristina Ramey, Director of the LIVE, Supportive Services. “Through personal guidance, ongoing education, and quality referrals for service providers, our residents can remain focused on staying vital and engaged and enjoying all that Lenbrook has to offer.”
LIVE supports residents by helping with health care changes, moving between living arrangements, or adjusting to new life stages; providing information and training to help live more engaged, independent lives; and connecting to trusted, credible services outside Lenbrook when needed.
Lenbrook Resident Charles Maddrey said, “The LIVE team are all such nice people and a joy to work with. I turn to them for direction, and they provide the right people to contact to fit our needs.”
As a Life Plan Community, Lenbrook also offers a continuum of services designed to support every stage of the health journey. Residents have access to preventive wellness opportunities through the on-site Clinic, Fitness Center, and a variety of activities. If additional support is needed, professional home health providers can deliver care in the comfort of a resident’s home. As needs evolve, residents enjoy priority access to Lenbrook’s Assisted Living Center and Medicare-certified Health Care Center, which offers rehabilitation services, memory support, including a partnership with Emory Integrated Memory Care, and long-term care.
Having these resources available helps Lenbrook Residents and their families embrace change and adapt with joy in mind. With the right support and perspective, the later years become an opportunity for continued growth, connection, and purpose. As Burnight encourages her readers, aging can be viewed not as an ending, but as a rich and vital continuation.