Insiders' Guide to the Berkshires (Paperback)

From Chapter 21: Retirement

According to the latest census, the number of older people living in the Berkshires is increasing. This may mean that a lot of younger people are leaving the area. But it also could mean that with the recent construction of a number of retirement communities, more retirees are opting to stay here, rather than flee permanently to warmer climes or move closer to their children. Additionally, as the cultural attractions in the county expand, there is more to do here year 'round than ever before. And there certainly are plenty of support services for seniors of all income levels that enable many to stay in their homes much longer.

Elder Services of the Berkshires is the main source for information about services for county residents aged 55 and older. Every municipality has a Council on Aging, overseen by Elder Services, and many have senior centers where nutritional lunches are served, trips planned and social activities held. These centers also serve as convenient locations for visiting nurses to check blood pressure, administer flu shots and provide information about medical issues. Trained representatives from Elder Services are also able to help seniors figure out complex medical bills, income taxes and other financial quandaries and to advise them of various programs and assistance they might qualify for. In addition to the retirement and assisted living facilities listed below, elderly housing complexes are operated by several entities and municipalities. These comfortable and economical apartments, also listed below, are located in a variety of buildings. Each has a community room for socializing and many run programs and activities for the residents. Some have dining rooms and provide meals on site. Most senior centers own or share with other communities vehicles that are used to transport the elderly to appointments or shopping. Elders who want to continue learning can choose to take courses offered by area schools and colleges. (More about that in education.)

Who are these retirees? They are, of course, from many walks of life. Williamstown's elderly population includes Williams College retirees and alums returning to the Village Beautiful after leaving their far-flung careers. There also are a number of workers retired --or laid off-- from manufacturers like Sprague Electric and Waverly Fabrics. In Central Berkshire, retired GE and Crane & Company workers make up a large part of the aging population. Some members of the Boston Symphony decide to retire here to be near Tanglewood and fellow musicians. Some are from out of the area having moved into local retirement communities to be near their children. Many second home owners also retire here. Some eventually sell out and move south permanently while others head for warmer weather only in the winter. But others are opting to stay here year 'round. Of course, it is debatable whether some retirees do in fact retire. Many professionals serve as consultants in their fields or start a business that has always been in the backs of their minds. Writers, artists, musicians and other artisans might never really stop producing their work and many serve as mentors to younger people.