These Are Not Your Grandmother's Retirement Homes

Getting Older at Canterbury Woods Ain’t What it Used to Be!

by Annette Pinder

As baby boomers enter retirement age, there is increased demand for services that meet their needs. “Our residents want to live in an environment where they feel comfortable, fulfilled, engaged, and, above all else, cared for,” says President and CEO Rob Wallace.

Wallace says, “Canterbury Woods caters to people age 62 and over. Our singular focus is to provide our residents and their families a dynamic and fulfilling culture, with amenities and services that are second to none, as well as the peace of mind that comes with knowing they can receive the care they need and deserve, all in one community.”

The day I visited Canterbury Woods I felt as though I was on a luxury cruise as I observed people examining artwork in the clubhouse over drinks with friends, and a young family and their children sharing lunch with grandma and grandpa. After perusing the lunch the menu, I decided on a shrimp cocktail, salmon and squash.

Considering there are more Americans over 65 than in any other point in history, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, there is a greater demand for high-end active-living communities than ever before. The health benefits of these communities include:

Companionship. When adult children are busy raising their own families, and friends and co-workers aren’t as accessible due to retirement, it’s a great time to forge new relationships and participate in new activities with those who have similar interests.

Easier Lifestyle. Imagine living in a home that offers worry-free living, complete with interior and exterior maintenance, 24-hour security and even room service if desired!

Activity-based fun. Activities include a workout room, game center, heated indoor saltwater pool and spa, yoga and Tai Chi, art and swim classes, a cultural arts studio, library and media center, planned recreational and cultural activities, and so much more. Should residents prefer solo activities, there are walking paths, nature trails, formal Zen gardens, winter gardens and greenhouses, and a meditation room. And if you’re interested in an ongoing learning there’s always Canterbury University!

Other services. Guest suites, room service, and a salon, are available. When it’s time to transition from an active-lifestyle home to one that has nursing staff or assisted living the transition is seamless for that stage of life too.

“Canterbury Woods offers the premier retirement living experience in Western New York,” says Wallace.

Now Wallace is looking forward to the ability to offer luxury senior living at the site of the former Millard Fillmore Gates Circle Hospital in Buffalo. Plans for the new location call for approximately 50 independent living apartments and five assisted living units for those who prefer a city setting.

WNY Resource:
Canterbury Woods is owned and operated by Episcopal Church Home and Affiliates and is the region’s first continuing care retirement community, featuring 40 patio homes and 203 luxury apartments on 62 acres in Williamsville. For a complimentary, no obligation private tour, call 716-929-5817 or email sfranco@echa.org.