Libraries are one of many places that offer volunteer opportunities.

Volunteer opportunities in the area provide retirees with many ways to give back.

You may have left the working world, but that doesn’t mean you have to sever your ties with the community. Many retirees fi nd volunteering is a rewarding experience that not only keeps them physically active, but involved in wonderful causes as well.

From becoming a mentor for children to distributing food at homeless shelters, Senior Corps’ Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is a great way to find opportunities. RSVP, a nationwide program, recruits volunteers aged 55 and up for community service projects.

According to the Roanoke Valley’s Council of Community Services website, RSVP volunteers receive free volunteer placement.

“Volunteering is a great way for retired persons to remain active and socially involved in the community,” says Alison Jorgensen, director of volunteer services for the Council of Community Services.

There are many opportunities for seniors to serve in the area – from once a week to once a month. The benefits of volunteering include keeping skills sharp and learning new skills.”

Other volunteer opportunities may include projects at church or going on mission trips either within the United States or abroad. Through Council of Community Services, retirees can connect with organizations such as Meals on Wheels – an organization that always needs daytime volunteers, Jorgensen says – as well as CHIP, Salvation Army, the Rescue Mission, Angels of Assisi and St. Francis House. Libraries and hospice programs welcome senior volunteers as well.

For more information about RSVP, call 540-985-0131 or visit councilofcommunityservices.com.

Joe Goode enjoys helping others and staying active.

“I was surprised,” to have won, he recalls. “The Elks Home made arrangements to make sure I was able to accept the award.”

In addition to volunteering, Goode stays busy with numerous activities at his retirement home, such as playing pool and Mahjong and taking senior tours to Peaks of Otter, Poplar Forest and other nearby places of interest. He also takes daily exercise classes and would recommend it to anyone of post-retirement age.

“I like to see people keep in shape,” he says. “It’s good to keep slim and trim.”

A World War II veteran, Goode was discharged from the Army Air Corps in 1945.

He attended Virginia Tech and later taught agriculture. Retirement came in 1985 when he left the family dairy farm in Huddleston.

Leaving the farm “gave me an opportunity to travel,” he says. “My wife and I went to Australia, New Zealand and on a tour of Europe. I think New Zealand was the nicest place because it looked more like our country than any of the others.”

Also in early retirement, Goode took on a hobby of making pine needle baskets that he either sold or gave as gifts.

“I think a hobby sure helps anyone” stay active, he says.

Tropical locations, such as Hawaii, are popular vacation spots for seniors.

Now that you have more free time, you may be contemplating that trip you’ve always wanted to take. From cruises to cross-country getaways, local travel agents say many seniors are up for an adventure.

“They are traveling to Europe, Egypt, Asia, Africa, South America and Antarctica,” says Bette Parsons with Martin Travel.

“We still do a lot in the USA and Canada – the national parks being of special interest.”

Joyce Mills with Blue Ridge Travel says she planned a cruise to Hawaii, with 90 percent of the vacationers age 55 and up.

Seniors booking cruises choose to do so for the value and are making their reservations early for discounts, adds Judy Miron of Martin Travel.

According to Mills, many seniors prefer traveling in groups.

“Some just don’t feel comfortable traveling alone and feel better or have more fun traveling with other people,” she says.

Package deals appeal to seniors as well. For a trip to Branson, Mo., Mills included hotel, tours and other components of the trip into one package, allowing travelers to get more for their money.

Eating healthy is good for your heart and brain. Choose foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains foe a well-balanced diet.

A nutritious diet and regular exercise are key components to your well-being no matter your stage in life. But what else do you need as you age?

Dr. Aubrey Knight, rated by nurses as the area’s top gerontologist in The Roanoker’s most-recent Top Docs polling, says maintaining a healthy lifestyle becomes an even more crucial routine in post-retirement years. Bones can weaken the risk of falling increases and brain function can begin to diminish. But there are steps you can take to help prolong your life and physical fitness. Dr. Knight’s key advice:

Eat Smart

As you age, a healthy diet is beneficial for heart and vascular health, as well as the brain, says Dr. Knight, of Carilion Clinic’s Center for Healthy Aging. “We see evidence that the same diet that we’ve been touting for heart health is beneficial for brain health as well,” he says. This includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains and, in general, foods lower in fat.

Dr. Audrey Knight says seniors should maintain a regular exercise routine, especially one that focuses on balance.

Stay Active

The more regular the routine, the more likely you will persist in exercise, says Dr. Knight. As the body becomes less robust, the type of physical activity may need to be modified. “Our ability to do aerobic and high impact exercise declines as we age,” Dr. Knight adds, “but great benefits come from exercises for balance, such as tai chi or yoga.” It is important to exercise at least five times a week.

No Smoking Allowed

Simply put, it does not matter how old you are when you quit, your body will still benefit from cessation of smoking, Dr. Knight says.

Take Supplements

Dr. Knight recommends several supplements to his patients, including calcium, fish oil and vitamin D. “I also tend to suggest a multi-vitamin for senior men and women, particularly those who describe their diet in a way that sounds as though they don’t eat a well-balanced amount of fruits and vegetables,” he says.

See Your Doctor

Maintain regular visits with your physician, and keep up-to date on preventive strategies, such as the influenza and pneumococcal vaccines, and tetanus and booster shots. Screenings for visual and hearing impairment, depression and risk of falling continue to be important as well. For mammograms, prostate exams and colonoscopies, among other screenings, Dr. Knight says the number of years to continue these exams depend on a person’s life expectancy. “This requires a long conversation between a patient and physician to determine whether they want to continue screenings (late in life), or – if something abnormal is found – does the patient want it treated,” he adds.

For Larry LaCroix, life as a retiree is good.

For Larry LaCroix, retirement has brought welcome changes to his mindset. Gone are the days of donning a suit for the workday. “Life is Good” T-shirts have become the attire of choice. And daily he proves the slogan is true.

“When I retired, my wife Barbara worried about what to do with me 24/7,” he jokes. “I had to adjust and fi nd satisfaction from different things.”

LaCroix retired from Kroger after 50 years with the company; he had worked his way up from bagger to vice president of operations. Over the years he moved from place to place – St. Louis, Detroit and Pittsburgh, to name a few – before settling in Roanoke for the majority of his time with Kroger.

“At fi rst, I didn’t think I’d like Roanoke,” because it was a small town with no professional sports, LaCroix recalls. “But it’s a great town that grows on you. I love the convenience of everything, cost of living and the friendly people.”

LaCroix’s transition into retirement life began with staying active. He plays golf at least three times a week at Hunting Hills Country Club, where he is a member, and also enjoys tennis.

“I also found the opportunity to take better care of myself,” he says. “When you’re working, you don’t always have the time.”

After retirement, LaCroix read a book titled “Younger Next Year” that recommends exercise for six days a week; LaCroix takes cycle and crank classes for endurance, lifts free-weights and uses the elliptical machine.

“As you get older, you need to keep stress out of your life,” he suggests. “My escape is exercise.”

LaCroix is also community service-minded. He serves on the Virginia Western Community College Foundation Board, which provides two years of a free college education to local students who cannot afford tuition.

“I became involved because I wanted to help children get out of poverty; education is a perfect way to do that,” he says.

The MedCottage features technology and amenities ideal for elderly care.

The latter years can bring significant changes to your lifestyle, health and mobility. But fear not, numerous housing options help ensure you’re well taken care of in each stage of post-retirement life.

Aging is inevitable, but it doesn’t have to hold you back from your ideal living situation. There are options whether you prefer to stay at home or relocate.

Aging in Place

Chris Moore of Solid Rock Enterprises construction company became certifi ed as an “aging in place specialist” to provide retirees with a chance to remain at home for as long as possible. His high-tech and practical home modifi cations help increase mobility and lessen chances for injury.

“Some people have been living in the same home for 50 years and have a lot of memories,” Moore says. “It means a lot for them to be able to stay there.”

Bathrooms typically need the most renovations, such as walk-in tubs and grab bars, Moore says. Overhead lifts mounted to the ceiling allow people to move safely from one room to another. Conversion of existing space into a master bedroom is quite common and with PALS (practical assisted living structures), a master suite can easily be added to a home.

A unique component, Moore explains, is a dishwasher that is raised eight to 12 inches off the fl oor to avoid bending over to load it. He also installs motorized stair and platform lifts.

“We also have high-tech features available,” such as electronic monitoring systems, Moore says. “We can install motion, medication and other sensors. If the sensor indicates a potential emergency, a loved one or 24/7 call center would get a phone call.”

ADA Specialties in Roanoke offers a variety of renovations for seniors as well. The company strives to create attractive spaces that keep the house looking like home instead of a hospital room. Products include caregiver cameras, under-cabinet lighting, custom-built ramps and remote-controlled blinds. Their services cater not only to seniors, but military veterans or other individuals who have experienced a traumatic injury or illness.

“Aging in place is very important,” says Chris Martin of ADA Specialties. “The ‘place’ is the home and that is where it is crucial that the environment be as safe, accessible, and comfortable as possible.”

Medcottage

Introduced in 2010, MedCottage is a portable, modular medical home featuring advanced technology and amenities designed for elderly care. The 12×24-foot cottage allows families to take care of loved ones on their own property.

The idea for MedCottage, says inventor Rev. Kenneth Dupin of Salem, stems from his study for a Ph.D. project on how Americans take care of the aging as opposed to other countries. He realized that an alternative way to care for aging relatives was needed.

Featuring a kitchen, bedroom and bathroom, MedCottage is equipped with a video system that monitors at ankle level, pressurized ventilation, a lift that can move a person from bed to bathroom and rope lighting that illuminates the floors.

Vickie Robinson of VAS Aging Solutions, a distributor of the cottage, says patients must have a prescription to obtain a cottage. Work to get the structure covered by insurance is under way.

Retirement Communities

For some, moving to a community where people share similar interests and are in the same age group is ideal. Many communities plan activities and outings to keep residents active and sociable. There are many options in the area that cater to all stages of postretirement life.

Independent living communities allow residents to live in their own home or apartment and perform daily tasks and activities on their own. Most of these communities are restricted to residents aged 55 and up.

Those who need help with routine activities such as bathing, walking or managing medication may turn to assisted-living facilities. Here, residents are still able to maintain some independence and privacy. If round-the-clock care is essential, nursing homes provide continuous assistance with healthcare and daily needs.

Whether you’re a 20-something just starting a career or a 60-something on the brink of retirement, it’s essential to understand the basics of saving and planning for life beyond the working world.

Planning for retirement involves so much more than deciding at what age you want to take the leap. Money, investments, wills, healthcare options and other factors play a huge role in your future intentions. If you’re not sure where – or when – to begin, financial advisors, estate planners, accountants and attorneys are more than willing to lend a hand.
Here, David Bowman Jr. of The Bowman Group, SunTrust Investment Services, breaks down some retirement planning elements to get you started.

Financial Planning

The younger you start saving for retirement, the better, Bowman says. “But it can be difficult to get young people to sign up for a retirement plan,” he adds. “They may not be making a lot of money, so they aren’t thinking about retirement yet.”

Typically, people start saving for retirement through company-sponsored plans. “If you’re lucky enough, your company will offer a match to what you contribute,”
Bowman says. “You want to try to contribute as much as you can, and at minimum, the same percentage your company will match.”

In addition to, or instead of a company plan, IRAs are a great option. In traditional IRAs, your money is tax deductible and grows tax deferred. When you’re ready to take the money out, Bowman says, you will have to pay an income tax. With Roth IRAs, money is contributed after taxes and upon people to sign up for a retirement plan,” he adds. “They may not be making a lot of money, so they aren’t thinking about retirement yet.”

Typically, people start saving for retirement through company-sponsored plans. “If you’re lucky enough, your company will offer a match to what you contribute,” Bowman says. “You want to try to contribute as much as you can, and at minimum, the same percentage your company will match.”

In addition to, or instead of a company plan, IRAs are a great option. In traditional IRAs, your money is tax deductible and grows tax deferred. When you’re ready to take the money out, Bowman says, you will have to pay an income tax. With Roth IRAs, money is contributed after taxes and upon taking the money out, you will not have to pay taxes on it or the earnings acquired over time.

If you plan to invest, Bowman suggests an FDIC-insured savings account or high yield checking account. He also says invested funds should be diversified.

“Count all of your assets (home, land, investments) and have a third party look at it to determine what it’s worth and what you can expect from it,” he advises.

At a younger age, you can be more aggressive with investments, Bowman says, because you have more time to allow funds to grow. As retirement approaches, it’s a good idea to become more conservative because you’ll no longer be able to deal with major drops.

Estate Planning

Contrary to popular belief, estate planning is not just for the wealthy. In fact, says Bowman, it can be as simple as ensuring you have a will and that it is consistently updated to reflect your wishes.

You also want to remember to list beneficiaries for your 401Ks, IRAs and other investments, Bowman says. If no beneficiaries are listed, the court system decides how to distribute your assets.

Life insurance, another aspect of estate planning, helps heirs take care of needs such as funeral costs and credit card payments upon your death.

“And if you’ve had the (life insurance) policy for years, it’s good to have it reviewed and check the beneficiaries,” Bowman explains. “Terms and conditions could have changed and may no longer fit your current wishes.”

Other objectives of estate planning to consider: deciding who will manage your assets, selecting a guardian for minor children and – if you own a business with a partner – drawing up a buy/sell agreement.

Long-Term Care

“There’s a good chance that one person in a marriage will need a form of assistance as a senior,” Bowman says, “which is where long-term care comes into play.” This covers a broad range of aid, such as help getting dressed or living in a nursing home for round-the-clock care.

Long-term care policies can be obtained at any point in life, but most people don’t think about it until retirement is approaching. It’s a good idea, Bowman explains, to look at options before your health declines or you have a life-altering accident. While straight long-term care policies are available, it’s also possible to add long-term care riders to life insurance policies or investment vehicles, such as annuities.

Funeral Pre-Planning

Though not always a pleasant topic, preplanning for your funeral not only takes the expense burden off your loved ones, but ensures your wishes are known as well. It’s best to either put your wishes in writing and keep the document in a safe place, or make plans with a funeral home. Pre-financing also is available if you prefer your life insurance to be used elsewhere.

How Much Money Will You Need?

Typically, David Bowman Jr. says, you will need 70 to 80 percent of your pre-retirement income. As you develop a plan for retirement, there are several questions you should ask yourself to help determine how much money you should save. Be sure to keep inflation in mind as well.

• What are my living expenses (bills, groceries, etc.)?
• How much do I want to set aside for extra expenses (shopping, dining out, entertainment)?
• Will I want to travel? Where and how often?
• What expenses will I cut out (less on gas, paying off house, etc.)?

Now that she lives in Roanoke, Carolyn Carter and her daughter have more time to spend together.

But Roanoke is actually not that foreign to her. Carter lived here for a short stint in the 1970s, when “the Royal Kings were playing at the Kings Inn on Salem Avenue and the Coffee Pot was the hot spot to hang out.” She relocated with a friend and worked as a cosmetologist for a beauty salon, spending some of her down time shopping downtown or at Sidney’s department store in Towers Mall.

When her daughter and son-in-law moved to Roanoke four years ago, she was thrilled. “I had enjoyed it so much back then, so I knew she and her husband would enjoy it too,” she says. “And I knew that when I retired, I’d want to move to Roanoke to be close to my daughter.”

Retirement came in June when Carter left the Henry County school system, where she served as a secretary. Although bittersweet because she will miss her co-workers and the students, Carter says she’s been looking forward to retiring for many years.

“I’m sad to leave my co-workers and friends outside of work, but I’m ready to start a new chapter in my life,” she says.

“Most of all, I’m excited about being here with my daughter and son-in-law.”

With her newfound free time, Carter has plenty of ideas for keeping busy. She hopes to join exercise classes, relax at the pool, and entertain friends and family. Finding a church is high on her list as well.

“I also want to travel…go on a cruise, visit New York City (again) and spend more time with my grandson,” who lives in Williamsburg, she says.

Though she’s only a few months into her post-retirement life, Carter already sees the perks.

It’s a good feeling to not have to set an alarm,” she explains. “The day is mine and I can do what I want to do.”

No one is more deserving of time for herself than Carter. Sound biased? It should. That daughter she refers to is me! And I look forward to the extra mother-daughter time we’ve missed out on during our years of living apart.

-Jessica Wright

Jim and Doris Collins love the pristine landscape at King's Grant

Jim and Doris Collins found King’s Grant, a retirement community in Martinsville, by accident. Two years later, they feel fortunate to have stumbled across the 120- acre beauty.

Raised in Patrick County but more recently residents of Midlothian, “we love this part of the country,” Jim says. “We didn’t know this was here, but when we checked it out, we were impressed with the beautiful landscape” dotted with colorful gardens and lush fields.

One of three Sunnyside continuing care retirement communities (CCRC), King’s Grant opened in 1993 and provides housing options for all stages of retirement living. Spacious single-family cottages and garden homes that feature duplex or triplex living are situated in a village-like setting. The community’s main building houses residential one- and two-bedroom apartments – offering living rooms, patios and kitchens – the Craig Assisted Living wing and the Lacy Health Center, which is licensed for Medicare. One section of apartments offers Catered Living, a Level I assisted living that allows residents to remain independent, while utilizing a nurse’s help with medication, dressing or other small tasks when needed.

“People that come here to live say we’re the best value compared to other CCRCs they’ve researched,” says Doris Biga, marketing director. “Truly, the cost is reasonable. Retirement communities are never inexpensive, but the value, amenities and security here set us apart.”

Services and amenities available for all residents include an indoor swimming pool, fi tness center, chapel, indoor/outdoor maintenance and transportation to shopping and medical appointments. King’s Grant also features fi ve dining rooms – including a private dining room for group gatherings – library, walking trail, stocked lake and weekly doctor’s clinic.

The activities department plans numerous events, such as card games and exercise classes.

According to Biga, the community’s activities department plans numerous events such as outings to theaters, exercise classes, and card games, allowing residents to stay active. Residents also have formed book clubs and a golf team and even throw block parties and progressive dinners with their friends.

Mary Lou McGoldrick moved to King’s grant from Branson, Missouri. She’s been a resident for six years and enjoys staying active. She is a member of the travel committee and helps arrange fun trips once a month.

“We’ve been to Williamsburg, Monticello, Biltmore, Ferrum College’s Blue Ridge Dinner Theatre” and many other places, she says. “And we always have a nice lunch somewhere.”

When she’s not planning trips, McGoldrick says she keeps busy with friends and volunteers at the main building of King’s Grant.

“I never get bored here; the people are fantastic and everyone seems to get along quite well,” she adds.

When the Collinses took a tour of King’s Grant, they encountered residents who spoke highly not only of fellow neighbors, but the staff as well.

Water volleyball is one of many activities available for residents at the community's pool.

“We have found this to be a caring community,” Jim says. “And the staff really is wonderful.”

The employees are one reason King’s Grant earned a fi ve-star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, says Biga. Each staff member is part of a program called SHINE that promotes – among other qualities – service before self and hospitality with heart.

For more information: 800-462-4649 or visit sunnysidecommunities.com.

Cost of Living

Village Garden Homes: starting at $73,920
Village Cottages: starting at $135,520
Stone Cross East Apartments: starting at $81,200
Stone Cross West Apartments: starting at $40,500
Lacy Health Center: $251 per day (private room); $227 per day (semi-private)
Craig Assisted Living: $175 per day
Monthly fees also apply 

Coleman and Nancy Brittle moved to Blacksburg to be near their alma mater, Virginia Tech.

The words “slow down” do not exist in Coleman and Nancy Brittle’s vocabulary. And that’s the way they like it.

The couple became friends in college at Virginia Tech. Twenty-five years later – both single again – they reunited and began dating; they have now been married for 12 years.

“He called to see if I knew of anyone to set him up with,” Nancy recalls. But after seeing each other again, there was no need to call on anyone else.

Living in Virginia Beach, Nancy worked for IBM, Coleman for a construction company before opening his own kitchen-and bath remodeling business. They enjoyed their stint at the beach, but it was becoming too crowded, Nancy says. The logical choice to relocate: Blacksburg, home of their alma mater.

Nancy continued to work for IBM from home in Blacksburg before retiring three years ago. “I knew when we moved that I would soon be planning my retirement,” she says. “Traveling (for work) was getting old; it was time.”

The Brittles have taken on a number of activities to fi ll their free time post-retirement. Coleman is part of a woodworking group that meets once a month to exchange ideas, and he has built items such as cabinets, end tables and a mule chest. Nancy is on the board and is a member of the women’s golf and tennis associations at Blacksburg Country Club. Weekly gatherings with friends, many of whom infl uenced them to relocate, are a must.

“On Saturdays, we have breakfast with former classmates that retired here too,” Coleman says. “We have group dinners, group golf outings and Sunday breakfasts.”

“We don’t have the stress of trying to get ahead anymore,” adds Nancy. “We can just relax and enjoy being with people.”

And, of course, the Brittles are involved in all things Hokie. Nancy works two days a week for the Alumni Career Resources program, which provides advice and other resources for Virginia Tech alumni. She also started Virginia Tech Experts in Action, a group of retired people who share their real world experiences with students through presentations at Virginia Tech.

Experts in Action “complements academic learning with real world learning,” Nancy says. “It’s very rewarding for our team.”

Both are members of the Blacksburg Sports Club, a group that supports Virginia Tech and Blacksburg High School athletic programs, and the Blacksburg Hokie Club. Coleman is the vice president of university relations for the German Club.

“I just like being part of a lot of different activities,” Nancy says. “When I retired, I realized giving back is what life should be about.”

Further expressing their Hokie pride, the two deem themselves “football junkies,” attending every home and away game. They often tailgate with friends and family (four of their fi ve children – Nancy has two sons, Coleman has two sons and a daughter – are Tech graduates).

“Blacksburg is a very special place, and we enjoy being part of it,” Nancy says. “Once a Hokie, always a Hokie.”

Elfrade Harmon is happy to be a Salem Terrace resident. Here, she plays Bingo with her friends.

“I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else,” says Elfraede Harmon about living at Salem Terrace, an assisted living facility that opened in December 2010. Harmon’s daughters helped their mother choose the retirement community, and Harmon has been recommending her new home to people ever since.

Developed by father-son team Louis S. Waldrop and Dr. Preston A. Waldrop, Salem Terrace offers several levels of care: residential living for more independence, four levels of assisted living and a memory care unit. Spacious one-bedroom apartments – some available with sunrooms – for independent and assisted living residents feature aging-in-place amenities such as emergency pull cords, walk-in showers and handrails.

Bud Diamond, a resident since the community opened, enjoys the scenic view from his room.

“I have a bay window that faces Main Street,” he says. “And I can see the beautiful scenery, trains going by and the mountains.”

The memory care unit, called the Dogwood Center, offers private or shared accommodations, all designed to cater to residents with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Memory boxes located outside of each room can be filled with mementos and photographs to help the resident identify his or her room.

Salem Terrace features a movie theater, complete with popcorn machine and comfortable seating.

Amenities and services provided at Salem Terrace are very “forward-thinking,” says Shannon Ross, director of community relations. “People used to think of assisted living facilities as just a place to come and die. We’ve come a long way since then.”

Memory boxes help residents with Alzheimer's or dementia easily find their rooms.

According to Ross, Salem Terrace’s management team, Coordinated Services Management, understands the elderly population and how to cater to their needs. Residents have access to laundry rooms, an Internet Café with wireless Internet, library, gift shop and game room. There’s also a movie theater featuring a 3-D television and popcorn machine, and a physician’s suite where doctors from the Center for Healthy Aging conduct wellness checks on a monthly basis.

Activities directors for both assisted living and memory care plan fun outings, projects and classes to keep residents busy, such as playing Bingo, cooking, visiting the farmers market, making arts and crafts, going on picnics and taking care of the garden.

Residents say the activities help them feel a sense of community, and they are pleased with Salem Terrace’s friendly staff.

“Everyone is so nice and willing to do anything you need,” says Evelyn Matthews.

“There’s always someone on hand.”

Adds Mildred Mellott, “you can tell the staff really cares about you.”

The food is a perk, too, says Matthews. Chef Michelle Carter, formerly of Michelle’s on Main, prepares three meals a day and offers monthly cooking programs to teach residents and the public about healthy eating and other topics. The Spring House, a publike setting separate from the main dining area, is available for lighter fare and residents can bring their own alcohol to host “happy hour” before a meal. Salem Terrace also features private dining rooms for celebrations.

For more, call 444-0343 or visit: salemterraceassistedliving.com.

Cost of Living

Residential Living: $3,595,998 per month
Assisted Living: $3,880 – $5,126 per month
Memory Care: $3,795 – $5,140 per month
Other Cost: $2,000 community fee; $927 per month plus applicable level of care fee for second person

Retirement isn’t just for relaxation. So when you want to be on the go, these Southwest and Central Virginia areas – all close to the Blue Ridge Mountains – offer plenty of options for the active retiree.

Bedford

• Population: 72,939
• Average Home Value: $90,000
• Chamber of Commerce: 540-586-9401
• bedfordareachamber.com

Bedford’s most scenic spot – the Peaks of Otter – is a haven for hikers and sightseers; trails lead to the peaks of Flat Top and Sharp Top mountains. For less strenuous activities, hit the links at local golf courses, volunteer for local organizations or tour nearby wineries.

More Notables: Close proximity to city amenities, Smith Mountain Lake, the National D-Day Memorial, local museums and small town charm.

Blacksburg/New River Valley

• Population: 43,202
• Average Home Value: $132,400
• Chamber of Commerce: 540-552-2636
• montgomerycc.org

This area is rich with nature-based recreation among the Blue Ridge and Allegheny mountains, as well as the New River. Head to the waters for fishing, canoeing and even tubing. The Appalachian Trail beckons hikers and the Huckleberry Trail – which connects Blacksburg and Christiansburg – is ideal for biking or walking.

More Notables: Public events and exhibits at Virginia Tech and Radford University, thriving downtowns, annual community events, and an arts and cultural district.

Franklin County

• Population: 55,000
• Average Home Value: $163,472
• Chamber of Commerce: 540-483-9542
• franklincounty.org

Rurally located Franklin County bustles with ways to stay active in your latter years. Golf courses – both public and private – challenge players of all skill levels and the Blackwater River and Smith Mountain Lake entice boaters and fishermen. Parks are open for hiking and camping.

More Notables: Low cost of living, the Crooked Road Music Trail and easy access to Roanoke and Lynchburg.

Lexington/Rockbridge County

• Population: 29,070
• Average Home Value: $284,428
• Chamber of Commerce: 540-463-5375
• lexrockchamber.com

With more than 58,000 acres of the George Washington National Forest located in Rockbridge County, it’s easy to find recreational opportunities. In addition to hiking and biking in the National Forest, the county boasts areas for golfing, skiing, boating and horseback riding.

More Notables: Glen Maury Park, Civil War historical sites, Natural Bridge, downtown shopping and dining.

Lynchburg

• Population: 72,596
• Average Home Value: $137,300
• Chamber of Commerce: 434-845-5966
• lynchburgchamber.org

Through the 50-Plus Program at the parks and recreation department, Lynchburg caters to seniors with a year-round calendar of activities, including classes, trips and health and wellness programs. Outdoors, parks and trails are ideal for hiking or biking, and the James River – with boat ramps located downtown – lures kayakers and canoers.

More Notables: Downtown shopping and the farmers market, historical attractions, art galleries and unique dining spots.

Martinsville/Henry County

• Population: 69,911
• Average Home Value: $121,000
• Chamber of Commerce: 276-632-6401
• martinsville.com

Martinsville–Henry County has a big list of amenities to keep you moving. Go hiking on the Fieldale Trail or in parks, fishing at Smith River or Philpott Lake, and golfing at local public courses. The area also features great spots for swimming, tennis, picnicking and camping.

More Notables: Martinsville Speedway, Virginia Museum of Natural History, Piedmont Arts Association, an hour-drive from Roanoke, affordable cost of living.

Roanoke Metro

• Population: 298,108
• Average Home Value: $176,062
• Chamber of Commerce: 540-983-0700
• roanokechamber.org

From greenways and parks to the Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian Mountains, the Roanoke area is busting at the seams with places to hike, bike or just sightsee. Golf courses abound too. And there’s always something fun on the calendar, including festivals, concerts and fundraisers.

More Notables: Taubman Museum of Art, downtown shopping and dining, top-notch healthcare, theaters and minor league baseball.

Smith Mountain Lake

• Population: 18,000
• Average Home Value: $642,434
• Chamber of Commerce: 540-721-1203
• visitsmithmountainlake.com

Miles of shoreline promises plenty of water-based recreation, which include boating, fishing, swimming and water skiing. On dry land, golf, horseback riding, tennis, hiking and biking opportunities are available at Smith Mountain Lake State Park.

More Notables: Newcomer’s Club, quick drive to Lynchburg and Roanoke, waterfront shops and restaurants, live theater and festivals.

What was once a retreat from their home in Binghamton, N.Y. has become a permanent residence for Doug and Cheryl Morrison. The choice was a given, thanks to the friendly folks, mild climate and sparkling waters Smith Mountain Lake had to offer.

After vacationing at Smith Mountain Lake for years, Cheryl and Doug Morrison of New York decided to call the area home. Both are active int he community and enjoy spending time on the sparkling waters.

The two stumbled upon Smith Mountain Lake by accident, Cheryl says, while reading a golf magazine. During a Virginia vacation, they decided to check out the area, meeting with a realtor to tour condos.

“Four months later, we traveled through again, the same condo we looked at was still available, so we purchased it,” Cheryl adds.

For 12 years, the Morrisons made Smith Mountain Lake their vacation destination, eventually deciding it was perfect for their retirement years.

“We wanted to leave the New York winters and taxes,” Doug says.

After retiring – both from IBM and Cheryl also as a former teacher – they moved in 2001 and built a home in The Boardwalk community, where they finally settled in 2003.

“You still get four seasons here, just shorter winters,” Doug says of the area.

Plus, Cheryl adds, “The lake is a melting pot of people from all over the place and lots of people our age.”

When moving to the lake, the couple had “built-in friends,” Doug says, because they met so many people during vacations. They enjoy gathering with friends for dinner, and a group of men meet for breakfast each week.

“We found there’s certainly no lack of things to do here,” Cheryl says. “If you don’t go looking for something, it comes looking for you.”

The Morrisons are co-treasurers at their church and help with the Smith Mountain Lake Charity Home Tour. They walk in their neighborhood for exercise and go boating on weekdays.

“We do coffee cruises in the morning and sometimes cocktail cruises at night,” Cheryl says.

It’s important to stay active, both physically and mentally, during retirement, the couple advises. And if you move to the lake, Doug says, that’s easy to do.

“We were fortunate to retire early, and if all we had done was sit in rocking chairs, we would have atrophied pretty quickly,” Cheryl says.

Already familiar with Richfield Retirement Community for its services, Claudine Ratcliffe knew she had found the ideal place to retire three years ago.

Views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the impeccable landscape lead many residents to make Richfield Retirement Community their home.

“I’d had my mother here for respite care twice,” she says. “I just loved the grounds, the greenery, the trees.”

And that’s the sentiment of other residents as well as the staff. Situated on 50 acres in Salem, Richfield offers mountain views, two lakes and ample green space, explains Robert Rector, chief operating officer.

“It’s a nice area for people to enjoy,” he adds. “Most residents say they also like our affordability, and the fact that as needs change, they can still remain on campus.”

Richfield – with a capacity of 750 – offers three levels of care: independent living, assisted living and a nursing home. No entrance fee is required, so residents only pay for the level at which they will live. And, as Rector stated, if a resident needs to switch to another form of housing, Richfield will work to find space for them.

Studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments and two- or three-bedroom cottages are available for independent residents, who Rector describes as “still active, but don’t want the hassle of home ownership and maintenance. They’re looking for more time to do what they want to do.”

Joanne Armstrong, who also moved to Richfield three years ago, calls it “independent living with a twist.” She and her late husband came from Nashville to be closer to family and she couldn’t be happier with their decision.

“I can be as busy and active as I care to be,” she says.

The three assisted living facilities, Rector says, offer private rooms, and the nursing home – the second largest in Virginia with 315 beds – contains both private and semi-private accommodations. One assisted living building is strictly for memory care, complete with programs that help people with Alzheimer’s or dementia remain as active as possible. Specialty units in the nursing home are for rehabilitation and memory care. There’s also a vacation and recovery program.

Home options at Richfield Retirement Community include cottages, apartments, an assisted living facility and a nursing home.

All residents of Richfield have access to a wide variety of activities and amenities. The expansive property features a half-mile walking trail dotted with exercise stations. Each building has its own activities calendar, filled with – among others – exercise classes, craft workshops, speaking engagements and trips. There’s even a Wii Bowling competition for which residents have formed leagues.

Ratcliffe lauds the yoga classes and a monthly afternoon program titled Lunch and Learn. She enjoys movie showings, musical performances and community socials as well.

Two stocked lakes on the Richfield property allow for a leisurely day of fishing.

According to Rector, the community provides transportation to the grocery store, hospital and medical appointments when needed. Richfield also organizes trips year-round.

“We have taken trips to Wytheville’s theater and to performances in Roanoke,” he says. “We also go to the Elks home in Bedford to see the Christmas lights, and we take residents on the Blue Ridge Parkway to view fall color. Really, anything people want to do, we try to accommodate.”

For more information on Richfield Retirement Community: 540-380-6511; richfieldretirement.com.

Cost of Living
Apartments: $442-$1652 (per month)
Cottages: $764-$2735 (per month)
Assisted Living: $2,422-$4,560 (per month)
Nursing Home: $179-$290 (per day)

Residents of WoodsEdge, an active adult community within Warm Hearth, have a home of their own without the hassle of lawn care. The community provides landscape maintenance.

With a 100-year plan in place, drawn up by founder Wybe Kroontje in the 1970s, Warm Hearth Village in Blacksburg constantly looks toward the future, all while taking care of current residents.

According to Tambra Meredith, director of marketing and development, Kroontje and his wife Marietje were Dutch immigrants who wanted a way to repay the United States after World War II. After visiting his mother at an assisted living facility in the Netherlands, he noticed how much respect was paid to seniors.

“The developer envisioned a retirement community,” Meredith says, “that serves seniors of all socioeconomic backgrounds.”

Wildlife tours - including bird watching excursions - are among the activities available to residents of Warm Hearth Village.

A nature lover, he chose the location for Warm Hearth because of the vast landscape and mountain views and began work on the 55+ retirement community in 1974. His first project: Independent living townhomes followed by HUD-subsidized apartments for independent, low-income seniors. Rounding out the continuum is an assisted living facility with full-sized apartments and a health care center offering a higher level of assisted living, memory care and long-term nursing care, Meredith says.

Downtown Blacksburg is minutes from Warm Hearth.

And there’s more. A recent development, WoodsEdge, serves as an active adult community of single-family homes. A community center is in the planning stages with spring 2011 slated for the opening. The 15,000-square-foot center, which Meredith says will be available for the whole community, will feature a wellness/fitness area, indoor pool and gathering space. Plans include harvesting timber from Warm Hearth’s 220 acres to create a building that will blend with the natural environment.

In the meantime, Warm Hearth offers a small activities center and a social calendar full of cultural, spiritual and recreational opportunities for community members to enjoy, Meredith says. And many are eager to participate.

Jean Scott, a self-described extrovert who moved to Warm Hearth 11 years ago, looks forward to the monthly calendar and the activities it will bring.

“The bus will take us to different restaurants in the area, and there’s a lot of musical activities,” Scott says. “I participate in a retired nurses group; that’s where I’ve met a lot of people.”

In addition to these activities, Meredith says Warm Hearth has exercise programs, wildlife tours, bridge games and Nintendo Wii games. The Warm Hearth Foundation also hosts a summer concert series in the community’s World War II memorial park.

The abundance of activities are not all that draw people to Warm Hearth. Scott says she feels very secure and cared for. If a light bulb burns out in her townhome, she does not have to risk falling to change it, she says. Warm Hearth provides maintenance services for the entire community, which can include lawn care and appliance repair, Meredith explains.

WoodsEdge homes come in a variety of floor plans.

Lou Talbutt moved to WoodsEdge about a year and a half ago because she and her husband wanted a home of their own, but wanted to have their lawn taken care of. They also lauded the natural beauty of the campus and the friendly people.

“It’s a very attractive community,” Talbutt says. “There are many retired people here from different states and international locations. It’s a diverse community in terms of interests.”

Meredith says many residents are attracted to the rural location, the climate and the proximity to Virginia Tech. Plus, residents that need to change their level of living get first priority.

“I liked Warm Hearth because it has all phases of retirement included,” Talbutt says. “It’s great to be a part of a community that offers a choice in standards of care.”

For more information, call 540-552-9176 or visit retire.org.

Cost of Living
Townhomes: $100,000-$250,000
Apartments: based on income/medical expenses
Wood’s Edge: $325,000-$458,000
Health Care Center: Call for rates