“When we think of old age, we rarely think of romance. That is changing fast.”
An extraordinary benefit of life at Inspīr, the luxurious, cosmopolitan senior-living community in Carnegie Hill is that all of one’s needs are fully taken care of so residents can concentrate on the truly important thing in life. Namely, enduring love and relationships.
BY KELLY KRETH
“Every wall of our apartment tells a story,” Roberta says. “We have oil paintings by our dear neighbor from Long Island. I’ve displayed some hand-thrown pottery I designed over the years,” Her husband Sy adds: “I play poker and bridge. And I enjoy the variety of lectures offered at Inspīr. There’s always something interesting to learn.”
Robert (in her 80s) and Sy who is 95, have been married for 64 years. They moved into Inspīr in Carnegie Hill on Manhattan’s tony Upper East Side when they realized they needed more support. At Inspīr, they could remain as independent as possible and pursue new hobbies and friendships on their own and as a couple. They did not need to sacrifice luxury for care; they are provided with both form and function.
Sy, a retired OB-GYN, and Roberta, a former psychotherapist, enjoyed a fabulous suburban life in Long Island where they raised a family. After their children were grown, the couple decided to head to NYC “where the action is.” As they grew older, they didn’t want to give up the vibrant life they were accustomed to in the city. But they needed some assistance. They chose an apartment they adore in Inspīr’s high-end tower.
When we think of old age, we rarely think of romance. That is changing fast. With the debut of “The Golden Bachelor” (and “Bachelorette”) those in their golden years are being represented more fully in pop culture.
Enter Inspīr, the luxury brand from Maplewood with two urban locations, including Inspīr Carnegie Hill. In a cosmopolitan city setting – which feels more like a luxury resort than senior-living facility – residents are free to concentrate on their relationships without the stress of worrying about basic needs, medical issues, and mobility. Inspīr allows romance to flourish, and residents are as independent as possible, constantly learning new things, and remaining social with peers.
Inspīr sets the scene for relationships to grow by taking care of things that would otherwise hold back people in their 70s to 90s. Residents have their own one or two-bedroom apartments and easy access to the dining room, pool, beautifully curated outdoor spaces and a Wellness Center. There are also a plethora of on-site and off-site events and activities to join.
Roberta and Sy came to Inspīr already long married, but others find the relaxed setting perfectly conducive to finding new and lasting relationships…and love!
Kathy and Jack were spending so much time together as friends they don’t remember exactly how they began to fall in love. But they do remember their first kiss. “We both recall something hilarious happened. We kissed and then we both burst out laughing,” Jack says. “It was unplanned and a little silly.” Kathy and Jack didn’t arrive together at the Maplewood property and are now committed to staying together. “I’m 90, for Pete’s sake!” says Kathy. “This is it for life.” Jack mods in agreement, adding with a smile “I’m at the point where I can’t imagine being with anyone else.”
Happy relationships – romantic or platonic – exemplify the spirit of Inspīr, a thriving community where life and love are embraced. More than just residences, these environments foster connections, promote personal growth, and rekindle community spirit. Residents like Sy and Roberta have endless opportunities to pursue passions, form friendships, and write exciting new chapters.
“One of our favorite things to do was watching and then discussing independent films at Lincoln Center on Sundays,” explains Roberta. “Art and theater have been lifelong passions for us.” And museums, theaters and films are all nearby. Roberta is also a ceramicist. “I’ve always loved creating pottery. It offers an escape that’s both calming and exciting while allowing me to be creative. I can lose myself for hours in the process.” Sy also has a hobby he loves. “For me, it’s wood carving. I took it up after retirement to keep my hands and mind busy,” he says. “My dad was a cabinetmaker. I guess you could say I’m carrying on the family tradition in my own way.”
The couple love Inspīr’s location, the design and amenities. “We came to see Inspīr, and that was it,” says Roberta. “It’s fun here. It’s beautiful, very comfortable, the architecture is wonderful, everything just flows.” “The layout of the apartment was what we needed. There’s plenty of natural light and best of all – it’s two blocks from our daughter.”
“We feel lucky to have each other surrounded by such a vibrant community,” Sy explains. Roberta concurs, “Absolutely. We’re able to continue doing what we love with the support we need at this stage of our lives. It’s the best of both worlds.”
About Inspīr
Inspīr is a new, luxury senior living brand offering a different approach to living for discerning older adults in urban markets. The brand represents the convergence of luxury accommodations, exceptional hospitality, cutting-edge technology, whole-person wellness and world-class care. The brand’s flagship senior living residence, Inspīr Carnegie Hill, is located at 1802 Second Avenue at 93rd Street, in the heart of New York City’s Upper East Side. A second location is currently under development in Washington D.C.’s vibrant Dupont Circle neighborhood, open in 2025. Inspīr offers state-of-the-art assisted living, memory care and enhanced care options, with private apartments customized to fit the needs of an aging population. Inspīr is developed by Maplewood Senior Living, in partnership with Omega Healthcare Investors, Inc. (NYSE: OHI). For more information, please call 646-978-9040 or visit inspirseniorliving.com
