CAI-NJ July 2018 (w)(1)

PRESIDENT’S CORNER LISA VITIELLO, CPA CAI-NJ 2018 PRESIDENT | TOWNE & COUNTRY MANAGEMENT, INC.

M y thirty-something nieces and nephews obtain all their information on their mobile devices. I, on the other hand, still like to read the newspaper with a cup of coffee rather than with iPhone or iPad. Recently, a neighbor couldn’t decide on the color for the exterior of his home. I suggested to get several color sam- ples to help with the decision. I know this can be achieved by using color apps on websites provided by paint compa- nies. You upload a photo of your home and choose colors you might like. I like seeing colors in sunlight, dusk, dawn and on a cloudy day to determine how the color changes. I realize how much cannot be accomplished online. There is still so much where human interaction prevails. Playing cards, tennis, football and golf are all fun, in-person not on a gaming device; and it’s healthy. Socialization is important throughout life and it, too is healthy. Enter adult community living; what a brilliant concept it was. Youngtown, Arizona, established the first age-restrict- ed community in 1954. People realized back then there was something about living with your contemporaries. We cannot lose sight of relationships, built through per- sonal interaction. It is socially beneficial to play. As kids, we played kick ball and raced around the neighbor on our bikes because it was fun. It is no different as we age, except the hobbies might change to taking an art class, learning to boat, or playing golf. With age comes wisdom and wisdom needs to be shared. Many grandparents today help with caring for their grandchildren, on some level. There are great health benefits for our grandparents and their grandchildren. Grandparents stay more active mentally and physically when caring for their young grandchild. Our grandchildren

"Our communities are micro-cities. Like NYC, we have our share of security issues." gain personal and rich ancestral knowledge. An emotional bond is a magnificent gift for both grandparent and child that will last a lifetime. Growing up with my widowed, grandmother living in our home meant she was never lonely, always stimulated (good or bad with nin kids in the hou e) but always involved socially. I gained insight into our family ancestry (not through a DNA test) and my grandmother’s life experi-

“I realize how much cannot be accomplished online. There is still so much where human interaction prevails.”

ence living through the Great Depression and other historic American events. I also gained a loving ally who I could escape to when I got in trouble or wanted a sweet treat hidden in her china closet. Today living arrangements aren’t the same as they were fifty years ago, but social relationships are just as important. If you or a family member are looking at retirement in the next several years, consider the benefits that go with living in an adult community. There are new “niche” adult communities popping up all over the country that bring a new twist on community living. The health benefit of socializing is there, if you choose to participate. Friends and family are an important slice of your entire life. So grab your sneakers or golf shoes and go play!!! n

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