Retirement

The Historic Triangle continues to grow in popularity as a retirement destination, drawing older Americans from across the nation. Why? you may wonder. Well, for starters, our temperate climate is a significant draw. We enjoy four distinct seasons, yet winters here generally are mild and short. The brunt of wintry weather doesn’t begin until mid-December and is over by late February or early March. Snow may fall, but it rarely lingers. Ice may form, but it quickly melts. Colorful redbud and dogwood are harbingers of spring, which often arrives early. Summers can be sultry, but elongated falls, replete with nearly summerlike weather well into October, make the impending winter easier to swallow.

People retiring from military service in the Hampton Roads area are familiar with the amenities to be had, and many are quick to settle here. The cost of living is relatively low when compared to many other parts of the country, particularly the northeast urban centers. Recreational opportunities are numerous. Local health-care options are many and good. And, as a college town, Williamsburg offers a broad spectrum of generally inexpensive cultural activities senior citizens are invited to enjoy.

Perhaps the most important contact point for seniors here is the Historic Triangle Senior Center, located in the James City County–Williamsburg Community Center. The center, open to persons age 50 and older, is a meeting and greeting place, the site of special events and many regularly scheduled monthly events, and the starting point for varied daytrips and longer excussions for seniors. Additionally, the center offers tai chi, sewing circles, fitness classes, Scrabble, chess, movies, mah-jong, card games, readers’ theater, book club, spanish language instruction, and other activities for interested seniors. Particularly Popular are the four annual themed socials. Call (757) 259-4187 for more information or visit the website at www.theseniorcenter.com

The center also is particularly concerned with health issues related to aging. It offers special workshops on such topics as growing younger, and Wellness Days programs, which focus on such themes as maintaining good health through smart physical activity, risk factors for coronary artery disease, and what to expect when you undergo joint replacement surgery. Many of these programs are offered in conjunction with Williamsburg Community Hospital’s home health-care program. And an added bonus: The center offers free blood pressure and glucose screenings. Call (757) 259-4187 for scheduled dates and times.

A good place to look for more information on programming (and discounts) is the Senior Times, published quarterly by the senior center.

All senior residents are eligible for Good Neighbor passes from Colonial Williamsburg. These $10 tickets entitle them to admissions, bus service, and shopping discounts in Colonial Williamsburg’s properties. They can purchase admission tickets for up to 20 guests each year at a 25 percent discount, and holders receive a helpful newsletter published seasonally by Colonial Williamsburg. Senior residents of York County, James City County, and Williamsburg are also entitled to free admission to Jamestown Settlement and Yorktown Victory Center. Proof of address is required.