Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: SUNDAY, May 8, 1994                   TAG: 9405110008
SECTION: DISCOVER NRV                    PAGE: 10   EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY 
SOURCE: JOANNE ANDERSON STAFF WRITER
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Medium

RETIREES LIKE OUR CLEAN AIR, LACK OF STRESS

The gentle, rolling terrain, clean air and small towns, coupled with educational and cultural activities and a modest cost of living combine to create a small slice of heaven on Earth. The majority of graying baby boomers are self-supporting, in good health and enjoy a physically and socially active lifestyle.

One of the major objectives of retirement, fulfilled in the New River Valley, is a low-stress environment. Studies also have shown that moderate weather has a positive effect on physical health and emotional well-being.

Alan Shultz visited Blacksburg several times over a 10-year period, attending conventions and recruiting for General Electric in Schenectady, N.Y. When he and his wife, Wylan, planned their retirement, they chose this area because he liked the people, the university and the hiking.

"We also wanted to get away from the hard winters, but live somewhere with four seasons," said Wylan Shultz. They have two sons still living in the Schenectady, N.Y., area and a daughter in the Air Force.

Some of the important considerations for retirement include housing options, climate, health care, transportation, cost of living, recreation, social activities and senior services. In the New River Valley, there are many different prices and styles of homes, retirement-community options and full nursing care facilities.

There are four major hospitals and many medical and dental services. Air and bus service is readily available, and the cost of living is moderate, particularly when compared to the Northeast.

Newcomers clubs, senior citizens groups, volunteer opportunities, elderhostels and educational, cultural and recreational events enhance relocation adjustment. Several agencies, such as the New River Valley Agency on the Aging and the Virginia Center for Active Retirement, offer support and information to seniors. Meals on Wheels, home care, hospice, elder-companion programs and an adult day-care center are available.

Retirement is a time to "kick back," have coffee and tea whenever you want, enjoy your hobbies, go swimming, watch old movies or new ones, relax or get involved. Comfortable living arrangements, an agreeable climate and proximity to activities enjoyed by seniors are important in the final - and some say the most exciting - quarter of life.