When Carolyn Bonier moved to Fairhaven, an Acts Retirement-Life Community in Sykesville, Maryland, she never expected her life to change so dramatically— and get better with age!
Shortly after moving in last year, Carolyn participated in Acts’ THRIVE fitness evaluation, a complimentary program offered by its Rehabilitation Department. THRIVE, which stands for Therapy Helping Residents with Independence and Vitality Effectively, assesses wellness across five key areas: flexibility, strength, mind, energy, and balance.
“Last year, I couldn’t even do one sit-to-stand exercise," Carolyn said.
A year later, Carolyn took the same evaluation and was astonished by her progress.
“I improved greatly on all of the scores, landing ‘above average’ for my age in every category,” Carolyn said.
"This year, I did 10 sit-to-stands in 30 seconds, instead of just one," she added.
"Thanks to my year at Fairhaven—especially enjoying the nature trails and the art studio—I may be a year older, but I’m so much healthier than I was before I moved here.”
Learn more about how Acts' THRIVE empowers residents to live fuller lives!
A New Chapter in Sykesville
Originally from Massachusetts, Carolyn decided to move to Fairhaven sight unseen after her son and daughter-in-law toured the community and knew it would be a perfect for her. She was very interested in the opportunity to secure prearranged care, ensuring access to excellent assisted living and skilled care if she ever needed it, but what truly sealed the deal was the beauty of the community, the ease of achieving an active and enriching lifestyle—and being closer to her son.
Fairhaven’s social atmosphere and campus with plenty of green spaces proved to be a perfect fit.
Healthier and Happier Than Ever
Beyond improving her fitness scores, Carolyn experienced unexpected medical benefits.
“My doctor was thrilled with my recent bloodwork,” she explained. “It was the first time in 12 years that my liver function results were normal. I’m healthier in every way, and it’s thanks to my lifestyle at Fairhaven.”
For Carolyn, the change stems from increased physical activity and doing what she loves most. Every morning, she enjoys a scenic 45-minute walk around the campus.
“At Fairhaven, I walk with my dog three times more than I used to," she said. “My two passions are nature and painting, and Fairhaven offers both. The nature trails are like a spiritual haven for me, and the art studio is where I can lose myself with a paintbrush in hand for hours. It’s something I didn’t have at my old home.”
Explore 7 ways living in an active retirement community can benefit your health!
A Worry-Free Life
Living at Fairhaven has also brought Carolyn peace of mind. She loves being surrounded by friendly neighbors, engaging in countless activities, and living in a supportive environment.
“There’s such a sense of safety here,” she said. “I don’t have to worry about what the future will bring or who will take care of me. There’s so much I no longer need to stress about—it’s all taken care of.”
Carolyn’s experience at Fairhaven reflects the unique blend of community, care, and opportunities for personal growth that the community offers. With her health thriving and her passions reinvigorated, Carolyn is living the life she always dreamed of.
