Community Spotlight: Westminster Place Evanston 500 Event

A group of Westminster Place residents is putting speed at their fingertips as they compete in a remote control car racing club event. The club started as a way for residents to safely connect with one another outside during the pandemic. Two years later, this group of seniors is still feeding their need for speed.

Active Aging at Westminster Place Senior Living Community

Resident Ed Welch came up with the idea. He had no experience racing remote control cars but thought it might be a great way to connect with his neighbors. He was right! They’ve raced the cars in each other’s driveways, in a field, and now in the gardens at the Evanston, IL, community.

“It’s just for fun,” Welch told Evanston Now. “Everybody gets a turn. And we make it up as we go along.”

This year’s event was titled the Evanston 500. Welch, who is a retired teacher and attorney, made the event as close to the Indianapolis 500 as possible. Around half a dozen drivers set out walking behind their cars, circling the gardens and walkways in hopes of keeping the vehicles from crashing into one another and running off course.

Resident Kim Rapp’s vehicle briefly ended up underneath a bench  before getting back on course. “This event is a lot of fun,” she said with a laugh.

Senior Living Communities Like Westminster Place Can Help You Stay Active

“Residents are always encouraged to come up with and begin clubs that interest them,” said Westminster Place Activities Specialist Jill Greenman. The retirement community, which is home to more than 250 residents and offers a variety of levels of care, including assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing,  knows the importance of successful aging programming.

Studies show that older adults who stay socially active and engaged experience a variety of benefits, including better cognitive function, improvement in physical health, and even a boost in their immune system.

Along with this event, residents regularly participate in classes and programming that nurture the seven dimensions of wellness. Life at Westminster Place in Evanston, IL, is filled with on-site opportunities that allow residents to engage in strength training and aerobic exercises, and socialize with neighbors and friends anytime they like.

Residents choose what interests them, and do as much (or as little) as they like. Westminster Place offers an independent living lifestyle that empowers older people to take charge of their retirement plan through physical activities, building social connections, and creating purpose in what they do.

If you’re interested in seeing our community in person and experiencing the fun lifestyle for yourself, contact us to schedule your visit.