“You can observe a lot by just watching.” —Yankee Great Yogi Berra.

It’s one of my favorite “Yogisms,” and like many of his memorable quips, there’s wisdom wrapped in humor.

I observed a lot by just watching in my 10 years as a live-in manager at another retirement community. For instance, many new move-ins looking for 55 years and older housing don’t immediately warm to this type of environment. I liken it to college freshmen moving into a dorm. It’s new, unfamiliar and unsettling, but most grow to love it.

What I’ve observed is that it sometimes takes 90 days for some new residents to adapt to this change. On the 91st day, I hear “Why didn’t I do this five years earlier? I waited too long.”

What changes? Like the freshmen in a dorm, residents in retirement communities start forming relationships and friendships. It speaks to our social wellness, our need to seek and provide support for others. By developing intimacy with others and creating a support network of friends, we develop a sense of belonging. We get involved, help our neighbors, share our talents and skills, and make our community a better place for all.

In short, it’s residents uplifting residents, which is something I observed a lot by just watching.