Blog Posts

Managing Arthritis Pain in Summer: Tips and Tricks

Ah summer. The balmy temps and sunshine nourish the soul. The body, not so much. In fact, to the question of whether hot weather actually makes arthritis worse, experts will answer with a resounding yes. The culprits, they say, are heat and humidity which can exacerbate joint pain and swelling. Barometric pressure changes may also be a factor. Though Mother Nature is a formidable foe, we humans are resourceful too. Here are a few tips to counteract her summer assault on our joints and help keep arthritis in hot weather at bay. Drink, Drink, Drink! Hydrating in the heat is essential for general health and wellbeing and particularly critical to arthritis management. Water helps keep cartilage soft and supple and promotes healthy blood volume which facilitates the movement of nutrients into your joints. Be sure to pay close attention to daily fluid intake, especially if you are outdoors. Remember, tea, coffee – and alcohol - actually impede hydration, so try to stick to water during the heat of the day. Enhance your summer diet with water rich fruits and veggies like: Watermelon Cucumbers Strawberries Tomatoes Spinach Oranges Celery Keep It Moving When it comes to exercises to help arthritis the rule is simple: Any movement is better than none. If you haven’t exercised since, well…the Beatles’ invasion, take it slow and gradually build up strength and endurance. Even a gentle 10-minute walk will be beneficial to joints and help manage pain. Keep things moving with other low or no impact exercises like a stationary bike, water aerobics, yoga, or tai chi that will get the blood flowing and help relieve joint stiffness. Once you are happily home after a refreshing swim or enjoyable walk with friends, remember to avoid sitting in one position for extended periods. Stand up at least once an hour to stretch your legs. Know Your Limitations Before embarking on any new exercise regimen, check in with your doctor to make sure your activity of choice is right for you. Have confidence in your abilities but stay within boundaries safe for your particular body. The goal is twofold: Find exercise that is good for arthritis and avoid injury. Walk Past the Ice Cream Truck Weight management will definitely contribute to the success of your summer arthritis strategy. Losing even a few pounds can help reduce stress on weight-bearing joints like knees and hips. Don’t panic. There is no need for a total austerity plan. But, do cut down on sugary treats, which add pounds and fuel arthritis symptoms. You might want to check out a Mediterranean-style diet to decrease the inflammation that impacts joint pain. Hit the Pharmacy There are lots of over-the-counter meds that help ease arthritis pain. The key is to take them responsibly and not overdo it. Check with your doctor before starting anything new to make sure it is right for you. Live in a Supportive Community What could be more uplifting than enjoying summer activities in a warm and welcoming environment filled with like-minded peers? Your aches and pains will melt away as you make new friends who will keep you busy and active. Book a tour at the Overture premier active adult community of your choice today. Lace up. Your walking group is waiting.

Healthy Grilling Recipes for a Delicious Summer

“I love the culture of grilling. It creates an atmosphere that is festive but casual.” So says Bobby Flay, and the celebrity chef, restaurateur, and TV personality ought to know. Now that summer is in full swing, dust off the old grill and take advantage of its magical powers to merge family, friends, and fun. On a restricted diet? Don’t be shy about getting your grill on. No matter what is on your personal menu, the list of healthy grilling ideas is virtually endless. Check out these healthy summer dinner ideas – and get ready to press send on that Evite. Choose the Right Protein When choosing the main course of your healthy BBQ, nutritionists recommend giving preference to: Fish Chicken Turkey If you opt for chicken or turkey, the breast should be skinned before cooking. If fish is your main event, it’s best to wrap marinated fish in foil and grill until tender. If red meat is your must-grill, opt for low-fat beef or pork loins. Shoot for 3–6-ounce portions. Supplement with plenty of veggies. Cook meat on medium to medium-high heat and flip frequently to prevent charring and burning. If your grill is topless, cover with foil to reduce drips and flare-ups. Veggies are Vital Healthy summer recipes include veggies galore. The good news is almost all your favorites are delicious grilling options. Chop your choices into large pieces, brush them with garlic, and fire away. Great options include: Asparagus Bell pepper Corn Zucchini Onion Potatoes Mushrooms Broccoli Cauliflower Cucumber The Marinade Makes the Meal When your guests rave about your delicious, healthy BBQ repast, you can tell them it’s all about the secret sauce. Marinade and select spices can be your meal’s piece de resistance. The real secret of the secret sauce is to be judicious. A half cup of marinade or one tablespoon of seasoning for every pound of meat will do the trick. If you prefer, create your own dry marinade by mixing these spices: Allspice Chili powder Cinnamon Caraway Garlic Powder Pepper Rosemary Don’t’ Forget Dessert For that little taste of something sweet to cap off the meal, don’t head to the bakery. Instead, take advantage of Mother Nature’s natural sugariness and throw some fruit on the grill. The natural sugar will caramelize and create a dessert that smells and tastes amazing. Add any one of these fruits to your healthy summer dinner ideas: Apples Bananas Pineapples Pears Nectarine Fig Safety First As you mull over your BBQ guest list, remember you are literally playing with fire. Make sure to clean the surface of the grill before cooking. If you are using a wire brush, be especially vigilant about cleaning stray bristles that can dislodge and find their way into food. Avoid cross-contamination of utensils and consider using a meat thermometer. It’s a Party If you are lucky enough to live at one of Overture’s premium active adult communities , your friends - and neighbors waiting to become friends - are always on hand to get the grilling party started. Book a tour today and get ready to turn up the heat with healthy summer recipes – and plenty of great company with whom to enjoy them. Bon Appetit!

Volunteer Opportunities for Seniors: Making a Difference in Your Community

Volunteering to serve others is rewarding at any age, but senior volunteering is that unique gift that benefits both the giver and the receiver. In fact, experts agree active adults who participate in retired senior volunteer programs enhance their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Research results confirm: Reduced risk of social isolation Affirmation of self-worth Increased physical activity New opportunities for learning and growth Improved mental health How Do You Want to Spend Your Time? Senior volunteering is about sharing your gifts and talents with others in a way that makes you feel productive and involved. So, the first order of business is deciding what type of volunteering appeals to you. Think about your particular interests. Do you want to show off your craftiness, mentor kids, or spend time in a medical setting? How much time do you want to commit? Do Your Homework Once you’ve narrowed down the choices, it’s important to carefully vet any potential organizations. To avoid unethical and unhealthy situations: Never sign up for anything that poses a potential risk to your health. Trust your gut. If it doesn’t feel right, or completely above board, look elsewhere. Avoid a concern that is looking for volunteers to “work tirelessly.” Chances are they are looking for free labor. If you prefer a non-profit, make sure the charity is in good standing. Research the organization’s mission statement to ensure it supports your beliefs and goals. Check out reviews of the organization to see how its employees and the surrounding community feel about it. When embarking upon a new senior volunteering opportunity, it may be helpful to spend some time on one of these charity watchdog sites: Charity Navigator GiveWell Guidestar Volunteer Match Create The Good (AARP) Find Local Chapters of National Charities One of these national charities may champion a cause near and dear to your heart. Chances are a local branch in your own backyard is just waiting for you to volunteer your services. AmeriCorps Seniors Open to 55+ adults, AmeriCorps Seniors Corps opportunities range from providing companionship for older adults at home to mentoring students in a classroom setting. Their roster includes options with varying requirements and time commitments. Habitat for Humanity Volunteer at your local branch of Habitat for Humanity and create positive change in your community. Feeding America Locate a food bank in your neighborhood and get involved administratively or on the ground at food drives. The Alzheimer’s Association This association offers a wide variety of senior volunteer opportunities. Its many local chapters organize walks, promote education, and campaign for increased awareness and action. Meals on Wheels When it comes to retired senior volunteer programs, Meals on Wheels checks all the boxes. Become part of an army of more than 2 million volunteers to deliver meals to those in need. What could be more rewarding than seniors helping seniors. Local, State and National Parks If you love the outdoors, the US park service is looking for you. Though some senior volunteer positions require specific experience, there are many opportunities for folks who care about the environment. Whether you want to join the maintenance crew to eliminate invasive plants or participate as tour guides and campground hosts, the Park Service would love to have you for a day, or on a regular basis. Animal Shelters Animal lovers, look no further than the Humane Society of America for volunteer opportunities galore. Contact your local animal shelter to provide direct care or companionship to animals, or man the phones to promote pro-animal legislation. Maybe you will find a new four-legged friend in the process. Community Gardens Your local community garden would welcome your green thumb. If gardening is your passion, your expertise would be most welcome. Volunteer with Friends What could be more fun than volunteering with friends? Join one of Overture’s premier active adult communitie s and you’ll find enthusiastic peers who share your desire to give back. Forget the retirement rocking chair. Retirement at Overture is about fulfillment, friends, and most of all, fun.

Summer Fashion for Seniors: Stay Stylish and Comfortable

Which adjectives best describe your wardrobe this summer? Frumpy and fogey-ish? Or fashionable and fabulous? Sure, it’s pretty clear you’ve, um…matured well past the age of, how shall we say, the bare midriff. But, that doesn’t mean you are doomed to a future of muumuus and mom jeans. This is your time to shine and though you’ve gladly left certain things – like job and carpool – behind, there is no need to abandon your inner fashionista. In short: You still got it. You just have to figure out how to flaunt it in a way that makes you hip and cool, but also comfortable. Translation: When contemplating summer fashion for seniors, it may be time to jettison the stilettos. Fashion over 55 does not come without its challenges. The fashion industry is obsessed with youth and walking into a trendy boutique can often feel like entering a time warp. Here are a few pointers to help you integrate the past and present to celebrate the wonderful you of today. Look Past the Models Unfortunately, older men and women are not well represented in the modeling world. So, chances are when you are thumbing through a magazine looking for potential summer outfits for seniors, the faces and bodies staring back at you are decades younger than you. It may give the impression that the clothing is not “age appropriate.” Fashion consultants encourage seniors to ignore the model and focus on the outfit. If the clothing is visually appealing to you, consider whether the style would work for your body type. Bye Bye Baggy A muumuu makes a great bathing suit coverup. But as a go-to outfit, it does send a fairly obvious message. You don’t have to wear anything tight and slinky, but there is a middle ground. Garments with a defined shape are much more flattering than maxi dresses with no waistline - ie, the aforementioned muumuu. Baggy overalls and pull-on pants are also in the uncool category. Once you determine the shape that looks best for your physique, you can dress to enhance it. Find Your True Colors Fashion over 55, for both men and women, is about staying true to yourself. If you have always had a personal style, stick with it. Experts advise older adults to pay less attention to trends and focus on an updated version of what has always worked. At this stage, understatement is the key. Stick with your basic style but adapt color schemes and prints to focus on making one strong statement at a time. Accessories, Accessories Never underestimate the power of great accessories. So, don’t throw out that chunky necklace you’ve always loved. But do pair it with a lovely pair of fitted jeans and a crisp white blouse. Simple and elegant, you are ready to go anywhere. Stock Up on the Basics You don’t need a ton of clothes to navigate active adulthood. You just need the right ones. Summer fashion for seniors should include staples like a black blazer, a white button-down shirt, neutral-colored cardigans for cold air-conditioned spaces, a couple of V-neck tops with elbow-length sleeves, a pair of dark wash jeans, and T-shirts with varying sleeve lengths. Book a tour at one of Overture’s premier communities today. Once you’ve made the decision to rightsize, your fashion choices will be easy: Pack only the clothes you wear to enjoy life.

Summer Safety Tips for Seniors: Staying Healthy and Hydrated

Humans. Microscopic organisms. Giant blue whales. What do we all have in common? No, we do not share the same musical tastes. But, we do share the same basic survival need: Water. Without good old H20, life as we know it would not exist. It’s as simple as that. As we age, it becomes even more critical to maintain proper hydration, especially in the summer months when the heat can really take its toll. And be advised: Dehydration is a sneaky adversary, especially for older adults whose brains react more slowly to the sense of thirst. We aren’t even aware that we aren’t drinking enough until symptoms like thirst, headache, fatigue, increased heart rate, lightheadedness and muscle weakness rear their ugly heads. Too many seniors ignore the signs and wind up in the ER. Don’t let summer heat exhaustion and dehydration keep you from the outdoor activities you love. With a little thought and some common-sense senior safety tips, you’ll be enjoying quality time with your homies on the golf course, beach, tennis court – and of course at Happy Hour. Much more fun than filling out forms in the waiting room. A Sipping Schedule Scheduled drinking times throughout the day is a great way to ensure you are getting ample fluid intake. The more sun exposure, the more often you will need a scheduled swig. Keep a water bottle with you at all times and make a note of how much you are drinking. Keep it Tasty! Add flavor to your water – not sugar. Infusing your water with fruits or vegetables can be tasty and refreshing. Nothing will keep you as cool as a cucumber like, well…cool cucumber water. Caffeine and Alcohol – Just Say No Caffeinated drinks and alcohol may feel like they are quenching your thirst, but in fact they contribute to dehydration. Save the cocktails for the air conditioning. It’s All About Timing Don’t cancel that exercise walk around the lake with your active adult community walking group. Just schedule it for early morning or evening along with your tennis game or pool excursion. It’s best to avoid exposure to the heat during the sun’s peak hours. Head for the Shade If you are out in the intense heat, wear a sun hat and find shade wherever possible. Be generous with your sunscreen. Food with Water Along with the heat, summer brings a huge assortment of delicious, water-based foods. The water content in foods like cucumbers, oranges, plums and lettuces provide added hydration for seniors. Cold summer soups are also a great addition to your hydration regimen. Know Thyself Rule number one for senior summer safety: Listen to your body. Drink plenty of water all day. But if you still feel like the heat is getting to you, take a break and head inside to an air-conditioned space. If you’ve already right sized into one of Overture’s premier active adult communities , you can just grab a few buddies and cool off with a card game. If you haven’t taken the plunge yet, book a tour of the Overture property of your choice today. Don’t forget to bring your water bottle

Our Favorite Travel Destinations for Seniors Moving to the Sunshine State

When the place you call home is a vacation paradise, life is literally a day at the beach. So, let’s talk about America’s vacation capital, and reasons retirees are flocking in droves to 55+ apartments in Florida. First of all, speaking of a beach day, Florida is the only state that borders both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. No matter where you live in Florida, you are never more than a short car ride to sand and surf. And, of course, they don’t call Florida the Sunshine State for nothing. The sun shines some 230 days per year, making Florida weather exactly what the active adult ordered. Golf aficionados will surely put those sunny days to good use. Florida is a golfer’s heaven. There are more than 1300 golf courses scattered across the state. Almost 200 of them are in and around Orlando, which makes 55 and older communities for rent in Orlando, Florida – like Overture’s Dr Phillips apartments - such hot properties. Mickey Mouse, and golf in your backyard. Now that’s a Disney dream come true. There is no disputing that Orlando is the theme park capital of the world. And there is no disputing that living there means you’ll never have to find ways to coax the grandkids to visit. But that is not necessarily what is inspiring more and more active adults to sign on the dotted line at Overture’s Dr. Phillips apartments. Conveniently situated within walking distance of Phillip’s Crossing and just minutes from Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club and Lodge, Dr Phillips Florida Apartments provide the perfect location and environment for retirement bliss. Featuring five-star resort worthy amenities and personal services, as well as a full schedule of activities to stimulate physical, social, and intellectual wellbeing, Overture’s Dr. Phillips Florida apartments are the gold standard of active adult living. There is plenty to keep you busy on property, but when the spirit moves you and the gang to venture off the premises, there are plenty of non-Mickey related options for entertainment in the “hood. For example: Kennedy Space Center The Kennedy Space Center is a totally immersive, intergalactic experience. Hop in the car and in a little under an hour you can explore the mysteries of space through interactive exhibits, dialogs with astronauts, and close up contact with spacecraft and telescopes. Gatorland So, when the grandkids come – and it’s guaranteed they will be beating down the door of your Dr. Phillips apartment – head to Gatorland. They will be bragging to their friends about their cool grandparents! Featuring more than 2,000 American alligators, plus crocodiles, birds and a plethora of assorted other wildlife, Gatorland is a treat for the young – and the young at heart. Translation: You don’t need kids to get a kick out of the experience. Though you may prefer to leave the Gator Zip Line over the alligator breeding marsh to them. West Orange Trail Step away from the theme parks and you will find a treasure trove of actual nature parks and preserves in the Orlando vicinity. One of the most popular areas to explore is the West Orange Trail. Featuring 20 miles of paved trails, complete with picnic and restroom facilities along the way, West Orange Trail provides opportunities for hiking, biking, or just hanging outdoors. If you just want to bike for a day, West Orange Trail Bikes and Blades Co offers easily accessible bike rentals. Schedule your tour of Overture’s Dr. Phillips Florida apartments today.Clearly Mary Poppins was talking about life in 55+ apartments in Florida when she said, “it will be practically perfect in every way.”