When retired teacher Jean Gordon moved from a large house to Masonicare at Mystic last year, she knew right away “this was the best move I made.” She and her cat, Cuddles, easily settled into their new life. “There is so much to do here,” says this computer-savvy lady who is editor of the residents’ monthly newsletter.

“We are a rental model, which we find offers seniors more financial flexibility than they may find elsewhere,” explains Lauren Dubuque, Sales Manager. Located in historic Mystic just a third of a mile from the Mystic Aquarium, the 179-apartment complex provides Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care.

“Our residents have so much to do,” she adds. “There is a heated indoor saltwater pool, exercise room and classes, game room, bistro, art studio and library. Another great benefit is the protected nature preserve next door with miles of walking trails.”

Among the Independent Living residents are Mark and Judy Migdail, who moved from Westchester, New York with their adorable Maltese, Rafe. Their daughter, Shari Migdail-Smith, lives nearby in Rhode Island.

“After researching many senior communities, I found these apartments to be the most spacious and elegant,” she says, and “my parents especially appreciate the full-size kitchen and generous cabinet and closet space.” Shari articulates the feeling of many adult children, saying, “I want my parents in an environment that they flourish in. Living at Masonicare has truly enriched and changed their lives.”

New to Masonicare’s Independent Living offerings is the “Sea Level” apartment available in studio, one, and two-bedroom floorplans. These are an economical option with modified kitchens that start at $2,100 a month for a studio.

Hilde Sager, Masonicare’s Vice President for Residential Services, describes the organization’s vision: “We believe this is the future of senior living – wide open spaces, lots of natural light and a very homey feel along with a host of amenities and support services.”

“We realize moving often requires downsizing. We can guide families to resources to help with the process,” says Lauren. Another bonus, “we provide transportation to shopping destinations and medical appointments in a 15-mile radius as well as to Backus, Westerly and L+M hospitals.”

For residents in Assisted Living, the monthly rent includes three meals a day and engagement activities designed for them. “We have a great pricing special for new move-ins to Assisted Living,” Lauren explains. “Not only will we waive our one-time community fee of $5,000, but we will also reduce the first year’s monthly rent by $1,000. That’s a $17,000 value.”

Within Assisted Living there is also a higher level of care devoted to Memory Care. Here, Masonicare has a special approach called “The Argonauta,” after a seashell in Anne Morrow Lindbergh’s book Gift from the Sea. “Our vision for Memory Care encompasses engagement, wellness and relationship-centered care in a neighborhood environment,” says Hilde. “Residents in our Argonauta program are assured of a daily living experience focused on dignity, individuality, kindness and safety.”

Masonicare recently welcomed a new Therapeutic Recreation Director who is dedicated specifically to The Argonauta, where there is also an Adult Day program offered.

Masonicare at Mystic is part of the larger Masonicare organization, which includes two other senior communities as well as a nursing and rehab center and a home health care agency, which has an office on the Mystic campus.

Are you hesitant about moving, especially into an unfamiliar place where you don’t know anyone? Meet Karen Hawthorn, Masonicare’s Resident Services Counselor and a position unique to Masonicare. “I greet each new resident as they arrive,” Karen says, “I’m the person that will be there to help you transition.” Karen also co-facilitates a monthly Caregiver Support Group. “Anyone is welcome to come. It’s free and you don’t need to be a family member of one of our residents.”

If you or a parent or loved one are looking for gracious senior living in a picturesque setting, come and visit Masonicare at Mystic. We’d love to give you a tour, introduce you to residents and staff and learn more about you and your needs.

Masonicare at Mystic is located at 45 Clara Drive, Mystic CT. For more information, call 877-803-8639 or visit www.Masonicare-Mystic.org.