Benefits of Independent Living - Otterbein Granville

Many older adults tell us they’re not ready to come to Otterbein Granville yet, as they enjoy living in their own homes. But what they may not realize is that almost all of the things they love about their homes are also at Otterbein ― plus, several added bonuses.

Here are some examples:

Outdoor patio/sunroom
Pool
Garden area
Spacious kitchen
Spare room or study

What this means is that, essentially, you don’t have to give up anything to join Otterbein Granville, except perhaps some space, some house maintenance, cooking, and a few other chores, which will be done for you! You can still have your garden, your patio, a pool, a spare bedroom for when the kids or grandkids come to visit, a spacious kitchen with the latest appliances, and space for your hobbies.

Acting Your Age? Not Necessarily

Living at home can come at a cost for older adults. Their social circle of family and friends is limited and usually diminishes as they age. People who study aging find that seniors who join retirement communities tend to live healthier, fuller, more satisfying lives. That’s certainly true at Otterbein Granville. We have residents who are between 95 and 100 years old, and Otterbein has even been home to a few centenarians.

On the other end, we have younger people in their 60s and 70s who feel younger because they get out, exercise, meet with friends to pursue common interests, and lead an active life. While you can be a couch potato at Otterbein Granville and no one will chide you for it, most people like to participate in the many programs available. Some residents have never been busier, and they love it that way!

Whatever Your Interests, There Are Others Here Who Share Them

Otterbein Granville programming is self-funded and self-determined. In independent living, we don’t even have a life enrichment director. Instead, we take it upon ourselves to govern and fund our own activities.

We have over 25 groups in the Residents Association. Some meet weekly, some meet twice a month or monthly, and others meet when needed. Some need funding to do what they do and are granted a budget. Others need nothing and do what they do without a budget.

Programming includes:

Group/Committee	Description
Archives Group	Collects, labels, and preserves photos of Otterbein Granville events and residents for posterity.
Artist-in-Residence Committee	Guides our Denison University summer intern in art or music (or both).
Monthly Book Group	Selects, reads, and discusses books they arrange to get from the local library — both best-sellers and classics are included.
Entertainment Committee	They coordinate and schedule a variety of entertainment groups, including vocalists, dancers, and other performers, to entertain residents.
Computer Users Group	Need help with your Apple tablet, computer, or phone? Join this group and get it!
Council	Council is composed of residents selected by the Residents Association to govern the organization and all its groups and committees. The Council has a president, a president-elect, a secretary, and a treasurer, plus a half-dozen other members-at-large who meet monthly.
Decoration Committee	Responsible for the Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa decorations that adorn the Otterbein Granville lobby.

These are just a few examples ― the list goes on and on…

Make Your Experience Whatever You Want It to Be

When you come to Otterbein Granville, you can be as busy and involved in your hobbies and programming as you want. You can join as many groups and committees as your time, interests, and energy allow, and you will be welcomed and encouraged to participate.

It’s socializing like this that you can’t get by living alone in your home. It’s community involvement, especially in a caring community like Otterbein Granville, that makes the difference between putting years in your life and putting life in your years! Otterbein Granville is a fun place to live life to the fullest, and it truly transforms the aging experience.

Visit Us at Otterbein Granville

Schedule a tour to see what life is like here in our vibrant life plan community. You’ll have access to a variety of amenities and programs right on campus. Enjoy a personalized visit and picture yourself living here.