What is an active adult community?

Active Adult Communities are specifically designed for age qualified, active adults who want to embrace the stress free, turnkey, empty nester lifestyle. Focused on creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere, active adult communities provide state-of-the-art amenities, classes and activities that foster lasting social relationships with peers. You will find fitness, fun and friendship in resort style surroundings. You will not find medical assistance, transportation, or meals but these things can be sourced at an additional fee. Community members want the best of empty nester living, minus the charges for services they do not need.

What are the pros and cons of living in a 55+ community?

The many pros of living in a 55+ community include: Living spaces designed for aging in place with comfort and convenience. A built-in network of like-minded, active adult peers with which to create meaningful social connections. Peace of mind in a secure environment with other community members who support and watch out for each other. Resort worthy amenities that may include state-of-the-art full-service fitness centers, Olympic sized pools, professionally outfitted kitchens for classes and demonstrations, theaters, game rooms and well-manicured outdoor spaces. An unlimited list of opportunities for physical, intellectual, and social enrichment. The best of stress free, turnkey living.

What is Senior Living?

Senior Living is an umbrella term applied to the various different types of communities that cater to older adults.

What is the difference between assisted living, independent living and active senior apartments?

Independent Living: Ironically independent living is for seniors who may need some level of assistance. Services like meals, laundry, linen delivery, maid service, on-site nurse, and planned activities are available as needed or wanted. If a resident needs special care, like an aide to help with daily life, they have to hire from an outside source on their own. Assisted Living: Assisted living may be the right choice for those who need a higher level of support. Assisted living facilities have on-site professionals to help with daily challenges and medical care. Those services are generally included in the overall cost of the facility. Active Adult Living: An active adult community is the gold standard for totally independent active adults seeking to maximize their empty nester chapter. With no hidden charges for services community members do not need, it's a choice that makes sense in terms of both lifestyle and finances.

How do I find the right active adult community for me?

There are important issues to consider when looking for the right community: Where do you want to live? Do you want to stay in your present location or try a new geographical area? Does the community make sense for you financially? Will your pet be welcome? Does the community design and layout meet your expectations? Does the roster of classes, activities and social opportunities accommodate your interests and lifestyle? Now that you have taken a tour, does the community have the right vibe for you?

My loved one is not able to live on their own. What is the best way to start a conversation with them about moving?

Open the communication lines early. Be honest about your concerns. Be sensitive. Be proactive by doing your research first. Be supportive.

How to downsize for a senior living move?

Deal with the clutter a little bit at a time. Set a timer to make sure you don't overdo it. Create a yes, no and maybe pile to decide what is kept, donated or trashed. Get help from family, friends or call in the professionals.

Winter Health Tips for Seniors

Mother Nature is sneaky. She regales us with the splendor of fall, then, just as we’re enjoying her magnificent annual foliage, she drops the winter hammer.

Limited daylight and plummeting temperatures can affect your well-being. Older adults, especially, can find it challenging to maintain their physical and mental health during those frigid months. Here are some winter health tips for seniors to keep you feeling good all winter long.

Keep Moving

Cold weather and icy surfaces can limit physical activity in the winter, especially if you have mobility issues. Leave winter snowshoeing and cross-country skiing to younger generations and choose low-impact, indoor exercise that matches your needs. Yoga, strength training, and aquasize routines can be adapted to any health level.

If you’re lucky enough to live in one of Overture’s premier active adult communities, you can hit the gym or sign up for a wide variety of classes to energize your body and spirit. Many indoor activities are available, so you don't have to stay on the couch all winter.

Dress Appropriately

For those sturdier souls who like to get outside in winter, appropriate clothing is essential for comfort and safety. Dressing in layers is a great way to stay warm, since you can add or remove layers as needed. Thermal undergarments keep you warm from the inside out and help conserve energy, and hats, gloves, and scarves are critical parts of your winter clothing strategy. If you’re talking about temperatures in the teens, a face covering also helps. That said, even the hardiest among us need to know when it's too cold or icy to venture out.

Shoes, Shoes, Shoes

Nothing protects you more outdoors in the winter than the right pair of shoes or boots. If you need to navigate icy, snowy terrain, choose footwear that is non-slip, waterproof, and warm. Be aware of any mobility or balance issues you may have—ask for help if needed. Overture’s maintenance teams work hard to keep winter walkways ice- and snow-free, but you still need to be careful.

Maintain a Healthy Sleep Cycle

Sleep often gets left off winter health tips for seniors, which is odd, because reduced sunlight and shorter days can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to daytime sleepiness and sluggishness. Cold air can also worsen joint pain, arthritis stiffness, or respiratory issues, leading to frequent nighttime awakenings.

Sitting near a bright window in the morning helps your body maintain its normal wake-sleep cycle. Set your thermostat to at least 68°F (20°C) to stay warm at night, and consider wearing socks and flannel pajamas to bed. About 30 minutes before bed, have a warm, caffeine- and alcohol-free beverage, or take a warm shower to relax and signal to your body that it’s time to rest.

Eat a Balanced Diet

A balanced diet is a critical part of senior health and wellness year-round. In winter, it is even more important to support your immune system with protein, fruits, vegetables, and foods rich in vitamin D and calcium. Ask your doctor whether you’d benefit from a vitamin D supplement to offset reduced sun exposure.

Stay Hydrated

Healthy aging tips for summer emphasize staying hydrated, but it matters just as much in winter: cold weather and dry indoor heating increase dehydration risk. Drink water regularly throughout the day to avoid fluid loss.

Socialize

The winter months can isolate seniors in their homes, leaving them vulnerable to loneliness and depression. Reach out to loved ones throughout the winter to get together even if it’s just for coffee and conversation. If distance separates you from loved ones, schedule phone calls or FaceTime sessions to stay in touch.

At any of Overture’s active adult communities, you can laugh away the winter blahs with friends at happy hour, enjoy a silly rom-com, or enjoy day trips and classes together. With potential friends everywhere you look, Overture’s 55+ communities offer the best of all winter worlds. Schedule a tour of an Overture active adult community today. No matter what the weather, you can be sure the welcome will be warm.

Maintaining Wellness in the Colder Weather for Seniors