For many, the winter blues start with shortened daylight and are compounded with cold weather that keeps us tucked inside, away from friends and family. Dinners on the patio are replaced with snow shoveling and concerns about falling on the ice. It is no wonder that so many suffer from the winter blues. Many people notice significant changes in their mood and behavior when the seasons change; they may be experiencing seasonal affective disorder (SAD) symptoms. In most cases, SAD symptoms start in the late fall or early winter and go away during the spring and summer, known as winter-pattern SAD or winter depression.
In fact, the Surgeon General recently highlighted a staggering fact: “Loneliness is just as detrimental to health as smoking.” This revelation stresses the importance of emotional well-being for seniors. For Mick and Marilee Sand, the decision to move into Deupree House wasn’t just about the practicalities of being closer to their children; it was about finding meaningful connections and community during retirement. “If I were back in my home, I wouldn’t be as engaged with friends and interests as I am at Deupree House,” shared Mick.
Growing older often brings countless opportunities to enjoy the freedom of an empty nest, exciting new hobbies, and cherished time with friends and family. Yet, for many seniors, aging in place within their private homes can sometimes lead to something less fulfilling—loneliness, isolation, and the burdens of maintaining a household. These challenges are especially pronounced during the colder months when the impact of less engagement can affect individuals both physically and emotionally.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. For seniors ready to make a positive change, retirement communities such as Deupree House offer an incredible opportunity to experience a lifestyle where "the forecast is always sunny and warm."
The U.S. Surgeon General recently made an alarming comparison, “loneliness can carry the same health risks as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.” For seniors, the repercussions of isolation can be profound, contributing to physical health ailments, mental health challenges like depression, and even cognitive decline.
Mick and Marilee Sand echoed this sentiment. Reflecting on their friends who remain in their private homes in Canton, Ohio, where they lived for more than 50 years, they noted, “Many of our friends still living alone struggle to stay active and enjoy interests and hobbies. The weight of managing a house, shoveling snow, and difficulty of driving at night can bring on the winter blues.”
For those seeking an alternative, communities like Deupree House provide an antidote—connection, activity, and a strong sense of belonging.
The heart of an independent living community is its people—neighbors who quickly become friends. Residents arrive with unique stories and interests; those shared passions often create natural bonds. Whether it’s a shared love of golf, book clubs, or culinary endeavors, these communities foster an atmosphere of camaraderie and openness, helping seniors overcome the loneliness that often accompanies living alone.
At Deupree House, the Sand found this sense of connection almost immediately. “It was like we had 50 new friends overnight!” shared Mick. Surrounded by like-minded peers and engaging activities, they replaced solitude with joyful conversations, dinner gatherings, and lasting friendships. Mick and Marilee emphasize, "There is so much to do at Deupree House. We love starting our day in the Fitness Zone and connecting with friends.” For seniors hesitant about prioritizing social benefits, the transformation can feel life-changing.
Related Blog: Where Neighbors Become Friends
One of the greatest joys of retirement is having more time to do what you love. However, the stress of household maintenance, yard work, snow shoveling, or other responsibilities often detracts from this freedom. Independent living simplifies life, offering maintenance-free environments where residents can redirect their time and energy to meaningful pursuits.
Mick and Marilee Sand took full advantage of this change. With less time worrying about chores, they embraced their passions—reading novels, playing golf, and exercising regularly. The vibrant environment at Deupree House inspired them to rekindle and deepen their hobbies alongside their neighbors, creating a fulfilling routine that keeps their days sunny. Marilee shared with a laugh, “There is so much to do here at Deupree. We are busier than we were back in Canton, for sure. Sometimes you need to our apartment and rest!” Which is the beauty of Deupree House: Residents can do as much or as little as they wish!
Retirement communities offer much more than just a place to live; they offer a lifestyle powered by engagement. At Deupree House, the activities calendar is brimming with exciting events to satisfy a wide array of interests. From fitness classes and creative workshops to wine tastings and cultural outings, there’s something for everyone.
Participating in these activities goes beyond staying busy—it becomes an avenue for growth. Seniors can learn new skills, explore hidden talents, or simply enjoy experiences they’ve always loved. Whether it’s a vibrant game night or yoga with friends the next morning, the sense of purpose and joy is palpable.
Related Blog: So Much to Do: Deupree House’s Activity Calendar
Of course, lifestyle gains aren’t the only benefit of independent living communities. Maintenance-free apartments at Deupree House free residents like Mick and Marilee from the weight of household responsibilities. No more worrying about cleaning gutters, fixing broken appliances, mowing the lawn, or shoveling snow. “If we need anything in our apartment, the amazing maintenance team is a phone call away,” commented Marilee.
For many retirees, simply knowing these tasks are taken care of offers peace of mind, allowing them to focus fully on what matters most—health, hobbies, and relationships.
The greatest gift of all, for many seniors, is the feeling of belonging. Seniors living on their own often struggle with community engagement. By contrast, the design and philosophy of independent living communities intentionally focus on fostering connection.
Deupree House is no exception. From shared dining experiences to events that bring people together, the residents quickly forge lasting friendships. Mick and Marilee often reflect on the warmth of their neighbors and the vibrant sense of unity that defines their new home. Since Mick and Marilee moved closer to adult children, one might think they struggled to meet people when relocating to Cincinnati. “Nothing could be further from the truth. It seems impossible, but we had instant friends here at Deupree. In fact, we tell our friends, 'We love living at Deupree—where it is always sunny and warm!'"
A move to an independent living community can feel like stepping into a space where life becomes lighter, brighter, and warmer. For Mick and Marilee Sand, the decision to move to Deupree House was validated not only by the daily joy it brings but also by the long-term benefits of a healthier, more connected lifestyle.
If you or a loved one have been considering a move to an independent living community, remember that sunny skies and warm days are within reach. Deupree House’s welcoming environment offers the perfect opportunity to ward off loneliness, build connections, and reignite your passions.
Discover what Deupree House can offer you—join us for a tour and experience the warmth of independent living firsthand.