Last week’s tour to Casa de Manaña was a great way to wrap up what we learned throughout this course. Not only was Case de Manaña an absolutely beautiful place to live, they also offered amazing amenities that kept residents mentally and physically active and socially engaged! I enjoyed learning about the activities offered to the residents, such as resident-ran classes, field trips, and game groups. There are also ample opportunities for residents to be physically active. Our whole class was surprised to learn there was a heated saltwater pool on site! Of course, the facility was in a beautiful and walkable area, so some residents get their daily exercise by walking around La Jolla. In fact, the resident I talked to during our conversation hour informed me that she walks around two miles a day with her friend. Overall, it seemed like the residents of Casa de Manaña have the right set of circumstances to age healthily.
With that being said, I couldn’t help but compare Casa de Manaña to the other senior-living facilities we toured previously. I think one of the main differences is the accessibility of the services and activities at Casa de Manaña - everything was close and convenient. The other facilities seemed to be less inclusive of services and the residents were more independent. I also noticed there were lots of people walking around, interacting with one another, and utilizing the amenities at Casa de Manaña. I wonder if this is because there are more residents, but I saw more residents out and about here than other facilities. Casa de Manaña seems to be the ideal place for healthy aging and I wish all seniors had access to this.
Another thing I reflected on is how much I enjoyed this course. I’m sad that it’s almost over, but I am so grateful that I was able to have such an enriching experience. My favorite part of this course was getting to meet and interact with a diverse group of seniors. I enjoyed learning about their successes and what makes them happy. It was interesting to hear about what would enhance their life. It’s always so wonderful to gain new perspectives and insights from people who have had a full life. Being a Life Course Scholar showed me the diversity of the aging experience and really solidified my passion for empowering seniors to live their best lives.
With that being said, I couldn’t help but compare Casa de Manaña to the other senior-living facilities we toured previously. I think one of the main differences is the accessibility of the services and activities at Casa de Manaña - everything was close and convenient. The other facilities seemed to be less inclusive of services and the residents were more independent. I also noticed there were lots of people walking around, interacting with one another, and utilizing the amenities at Casa de Manaña. I wonder if this is because there are more residents, but I saw more residents out and about here than other facilities. Casa de Manaña seems to be the ideal place for healthy aging and I wish all seniors had access to this.
Another thing I reflected on is how much I enjoyed this course. I’m sad that it’s almost over, but I am so grateful that I was able to have such an enriching experience. My favorite part of this course was getting to meet and interact with a diverse group of seniors. I enjoyed learning about their successes and what makes them happy. It was interesting to hear about what would enhance their life. It’s always so wonderful to gain new perspectives and insights from people who have had a full life. Being a Life Course Scholar showed me the diversity of the aging experience and really solidified my passion for empowering seniors to live their best lives.