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.

Fall Wellness Tips for Seniors

Fall brings cooler weather, football season, beautiful autumn foliage . . . and the flu. We spend more time indoors in the fall, in close contact with other people. Low-humidity indoor air dries out the protective mucus membranes in our noses and mouths. Less sunlight means less vitamin D, which slightly weakens the body’s immune system. Combine all three, and rates of colds, flu, and COVID go up.

Active senior living helps maintain your physical well-being. They might not make you immune to viruses, but these fall wellness tips will help you feel your best this season.

Stay Up to Date on Vaccinations

Senior wellness is often proactive, and vaccinations are recommended for eligible adults. The CDC recommends the following vaccinations for people 55+:

COVID-19: At least one booster a year. After age 65, two doses a year.
Influenza: Annual vaccination.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV): Some adults 50-65, and all people 75 or older.
Shingles: All adults 50+.
Pneumococcal: All adults 50+.

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about which vaccines are right for you. They may suggest changes to the CDC schedule depending on your age and any underlying health conditions.

Eat for Immune Health

A healthy diet supports active senior living year-round, but is especially important in the fall. Fill your meals with colorful vegetables and fruit, including squash, sweet potatoes, citrus, and leafy greens. Eat lean protein like white-fleshed fish, skinless chicken and turkey breasts, lean pork and beef, and low-fat dairy. Add in whole grains, beans, nuts, and seeds for a well-rounded, healthy diet.

Depending on your diet and health, you may benefit from supplements such as vitamin D. Supplements can interact with some medications, so talk to your doctor before starting any.

One last note on healthy eating. It’s easy to neglect hydration once summer is over. Adequate hydration matters year-round and helps maintain the mucous membranes in your nose, throat, and lungs, which protect the body from bacteria and viruses. So keep drinking that water!

Keep Moving

Regular, moderate physical activity helps support senior well-being. Overture senior apartments offer plenty of exercise options, from low-impact activities like swimming and yoga to strength training in our on-site gym. Group classes also offer social connections and mutual motivation.

Seniors can have very different mobility levels. Choose an exercise that fits you personally.

Prioritize Sleep and Stress Management

Fall brings shorter days and longer, darker nights, which can disrupt sleep patterns, especially in the weeks after daylight saving time. Try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule, aiming for 7-9 hours a night.

To reach this goal, stick to a regular bedtime schedule and keep the bedroom comfortably cool and dark. Avoid alcohol and caffeine close to bedtime, and limit screen time. Enjoying hobbies, journaling, meditation, or a warm shower before bed can also improve sleep.

Stay Socially Connected

Social connection is an important part of active senior living. Fall and winter can result in social isolation among seniors, resulting in depression and anxiety. Conversely, an active social life supports emotional well-being, cognitive function, and even physical health.

Community living makes it easy to stay connected. Overture’s Live Here Live Well program makes it easy to find game nights, clubs, classes, and seasonal events, so community members can always meet up with friends and neighbors.

Practice Healthy Habits

In addition, several healthy habits help support your immune system throughout fall:

Wash your hands frequently to reduce the spread of germs.
Avoid touching your face, especially after touching public surfaces.
Stay home when you’re sick to prevent further infections.
Keep shared spaces clean.
Schedule your annual wellness checkup.

Active Senior Living at Overture Senior Apartments

We hope this list of fall wellness tips was helpful. Remember, small, consistent habits have a significant positive impact on senior wellness. Talk to your healthcare provider about active senior living this fall and winter, and book a tour of Overture Senior Apartments to see what life in a 55+ community is all about.

Fall Immunity Tips for Adults 55+