Blog Posts

Resolutions to Try for the New Year

fThere are New Year’s resolutions. And there are New Year’s resolutions. For example, there are those resolutions that are best described with two words: Unrealistic and unattainable. The words that follow those words would be: Frustration and disappointment. So, the first and most important resolution for 2023 is to break the pattern. This year why not create a list of actionable goals that will bring you joy and actually enhance your life. Here are a few suggestions to help refocus your energy and accentuate the positive in the coming year. Smile and the World Smiles with You An open heart and positive mindset will not only enhance your personal wellbeing, it will also directly impact those around you. Make 2023 the year you embrace new friends and experiences with enthusiasm. Let those Negative Nellies complain about everyone and everything while you explore, discover and enjoy! Get Off the Couch If your resolution list includes running a half marathon - and you typically do not wander too far from the couch, well…you will be disappointed. However, there is no better time to get up and start moving than the present. So, maybe a reasonable New Year’s goal is a commitment to start a daily 15-minute exercise program. As you get stronger, you can gradually work your way up to a more rigorous routine. Your body, mind and spirit will thank you. Eat Smarter Realistic New Year’s goal setting can definitely include healthier food choices. As we age our nutritional needs change. A healthy senior diet means more fruits and vegetables, and choosing whole grains and lean meats over fatty options. Add healthy fats by cooking in avocado or olive oil. Your resolution should include a caveat that stipulates permission to indulge in an occasional special treat. Healthy eating need not mean total austerity. Nobody needs to go through life without ever eating a cookie! Hug Those Grandkids More If you’ve got ‘em, hug’em! Studies show that seniors who spend more quality time with their grandkids maintain better cognitive health and actually live longer. Many grandparents are still making up for lost time during Covid. Make 2023 the year you spend as much time as possible with those little darlings. The interaction will benefit you - and them! Sharpen the Mind Any list of New Year’s resolutions for seniors cannot ignore intellectual stimulation. Challenging your brain on a daily basis is one of the best ways to keep your brain sharp and memory intact. There are so many ways to activate the mind. Whether you enjoy crossword puzzles, join a book club or get in a regular card game, your brain will be the winner. Be More Social Like the song says, make new friends but keep the old. One is silver and the other gold. Keeping up with friends and reaching out to new friends is essential for seniors’ emotional health. Make 2023 a year of fun and friendship. Rightsize into the Right Active Adult Community You are rounding the empty nester corner and heading into the homestretch of retirement. A whole new exciting chapter of life awaits. Make sure your list of New Year’s resolutions includes finding the perfect Overture active adult community in which to spend it. This is the year to rightsize into a lifestyle that was designed just for you. Overture’s premier active adult communities feature state of the art apartments and resort style amenities, but the jewel in the crown is the welcoming community of enthusiastic, like minded peers. Book a tour today. Your new friends are waiting to wish you Happy New Year!

Ways to Enjoy Your New Life in Birmingham

From its thousands of acres of urban green spaces, to its superb cuisine, featuring multiple winners of the “Oscars of Dining,” to an outstanding world-renowned health system, small wonder Birmingham is dubbed “the Magic City” of the south. Even less surprising, roughly 15% of those lucky enough to live in Alabama’s largest city are old enough to have seen a Beatles concert – live. Like the proverbial flame and moth situation, senior living communities in Birmingham are attracting many from all over the country. As if this city’s eclectic culture is not enough to draw adventurous retirees, tax free social security and pensions offer the icing on the retirement cake. As the epicenter of the Civil Rights Movement, Birmingham is steeped in history that can be experienced through its many historical landmarks, museums and commemorative sites. Check out these Birmingham attractions and find out why active adult communities in Birmingham are literally where the action is. Birmingham Museum of Art Founded in 1951, the Birmingham Museum of Art is home to one of the most impressive collections in the southeast. The museum boasts treasures from all over the world and is truly an international cultural hub. You will enjoy the work of famous artists as well as that of notable local talent whose names you haven’t heard yet, but won’t forget. Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum Born to be wild? You will satisfy your inner easy rider at the Barber Vintage Motor Sports Museum. Featuring more than 1,200 motorcycles and race cars, this “moving works of art” museum boasts some of the world’s rarest bikes and cars, some dating back to the 19 th century. In fact, many of the bikes and vehicles on display have been restored to racing condition and compete on the museum’s onsite track. Founded by George Barber, this unique homage to his passion for speed is a must-see in Birmingham. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute is a cultural and educational research center. Its mission is to enlighten each generation, providing the tools to explore the past to create a better future. The institute is part of the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument and an affiliate of the Smithsonian. Featuring interactive exhibits like replicas of the Freedom Riders bus and the jail cell from which Dr. Martin Luther King wrote one of his famous speeches, the BCRI provides an immersive and enlightening experience. McWane Science Center Ask anybody living in an active adult community in Birmingham where to go when the grandkids visit and the answer will be the McWane Science Center. This state of the art, hands on, interactive learning center features an on-site aquarium and an I-Max dome theater. Permanent exhibits include dinosaurs, sea monsters, weather cycles, marine biology, engineering, math and technology. Take the kids to this place for the day and your grandparent coolness factor will soar to new heights! Perfectly situated in beautiful Vestavia Hills, just minutes from acres of parks, jogging trails, shopping and entertainment, Overture Tributary is Overture’s premier active adult community in Birmingham. Book a tour today. Become part of a welcoming community of enthusiastic, like-minded peers and experience the magic of life in the “Magic City.”

Activities for Seniors Moving to the Yorktown Chicago Area

Congratulations! The nest is empty, the goodbye party at work is just around the corner – or has already occurred – and that blissful retirement life you’ve envisioned for so long is about to become a reality. In contemplating where to spend this exciting next chapter, you’re torn. You’d love easy access to a vibrant, stimulating city. Then again, you’d prefer to go home to an environment that is a little less hectic. As luck would have it, you need look no further than senior apartments in Lombard, Illinois, the perfect blend of the urban and suburban. Steeped in history and oozing with charm, Lombard is less than half an hour from the Chicago Loop. The Windy City’s rich and diverse culture, restaurants and entertainment is but a short hop away. You’ll find this peaceful burg takes its beauty and serenity – and its incredible lilacs – seriously. As well-known for Lilac Time, its annual homage to said lilacs, as it is for its proximity to Chicago, Lombard is gaining prominence as one of the best locations for active adult communities in Illinois. When you don’t want to pop into the city, there are plenty of activities right in the ‘hood to keep seniors - and their little visitors - busy and engaged. Yorktown Center One of Lombard’s foremost focal points is Yorktown Center. This one-stop shop mecca features over 150 retail, dining, fitness, and entertainment options. The complex is also home to Overture Yorktown, Overture’s premier over 55 community in Illinois. Senior life doesn’t get any easier or more convenient than this. Lilacia Park Once part of the estate of Colonel William Plum, writer, lawyer, soldier, and horticulturist, Lilacia Park is a unique botanical treasure trove. Boasting over 700 bushes and more than 200 different lilac species, Lilacia Park is a magnet for locals and visitors. Lilac Time For more than two weeks in May, everything in Lombard is coming up lilacs. The Lilac Time festival features lilac-themed events, a lilac parade down Main Street, an arts and crafts fair, a formal ball, and a Mother’s Day brunch. This is not to mention the crowning of a Lilac Princess. Between wine tastings and concerts, you can schedule a guided tour of Lilacia Park and learn about its colorful history. Yes, Lombard seriously loves its lilacs. Morton Arboretum Lilacs are not the only plant life on display in Lombard. The Morton Arboretum is a popular destination featuring over 200,000 cataloged plants on 1,700 acres of gardens. The arboretum is also at the forefront of tree research, hosting the Center for Tree Science. There are also plenty of indoor exhibits at the sustainable visitor center as well as the Sterling Morton Library, which houses thousands of printed materials. For the Family Lombard has not one, but two, family entertainment complexes that will mesmerize the grandkids when they visit. The Enchanted Castle Restaurant and Entertainment Complex The big ones will flip for the Enchanted Castle’s state-of-the-art VR games, laser tag, go-karts, mini golf, bumper cars, mini-bowling, indoor rides, and a fully stocked video arcade. The little ones will love Quest II: Kids Adventure Playland, a designated safe play area that is fun and challenging. After they work up an appetite, all the kids will love dining at the Dragon’s Den Restaurant. Safari Land Safari Land offers more than 60,000 square feet of action-packed family fun including a roller coaster and a massive soft play area with five slides. Once the grandkids visit you at Overture Yorktown , you can be sure they will want to return soon.. Book a tour at Overture Yorktown today. Your stress-free, turnkey, lilac-filled life awaits.

Ways to Enjoy Your New Life in Chapel Hill

They call it “The Southern Part of Heaven,” and every day more seniors in over 55 communities in Chapel Hill, North Carolina are finding out why. As a college town, home to one of the oldest public universities in the country, Chapel Hill is hip and happening. But this small, welcoming burg still manages to maintain its unique charm. Its location in the Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill “Research Triangle,” known for attracting tech research and development companies, makes Chapel Hill a hub of both southern hospitality and cutting-edge sophistication. From its globally influential music scene, to natural surroundings that are nothing short of spectacular, to its inclusive spirit of community between locals and students, Chapel Hill is the very definition of a cool little town. And let’s not forget North Carolina’s untaxed social security benefits, a perk seniors will appreciate as much as the outstanding sports teams. Retirement life in Chapel Hill is as good as senior living in North Carolina gets. Here’s a preview of the Chapel Hill activities guaranteed to keep this new chapter truly active. North Carolina Botanical Garden The University of North Carolina campus is the centerpiece around which Chapel Hill revolves. One of its highlights is the over 1000 acres of native plant areas, curated gardens and walking trails that make up the North Carolina Botanical Garden. Designed to connect students and visitors with nature, the Botanical Garden is a perfect place to stroll, meet friends or just pull up a bench and people watch. Franklin Street Just off campus is Franklin Street, home to boutiques, restaurants, bars, and music venues. Popular with locals as well as students, Franklin Street is the quintessential example of the intergenerational vibe Chapel Hill is known for. Ackland Art Museum With over 17,000 pieces in its permanent collection, as well as temporary and rotating exhibits, and classes for art enthusiasts of all ages, the Ackland Art Museum on the UNC campus is sure to impress. Spend the day getting your culture on and then head to Franklin Street for cocktails and conversation. Tee it Up The UNC Finley Golf Club, an 18-hole golf course was both designed and renovated by renowned golf course designer Tom Fazio. No doubt there are one or two golf enthusiasts at active adult communities in North Carolina to fill out your foursome. Morehead Planetarium and Science Center When the grandkids come to visit, you can boldly take them where they have not been before, the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center. They will love the space exhibitions and the full-dome theater. They may not have heard of Captain Kirk, but they will surely know how cool their grandparents are for taking them on a space adventure. Road Trip Three words define the best active adult communities in North Carolina: Location, location, location. To that end, senior living in Chapel Hill comes with a neighboring bonus. Raleigh, North Carolina’s capital city is but a half hour drive away and the perfect destination for a day trip. Book a walking tour, visit a museum and enjoy the city’s art and dining. Perfectly situated near downtown Chapel Hill, Overture Chapel Hill is the premier over 55 community in North Carolina. Book a tour today and become part of both the Overture and Chapel Hill families. Go Tarheels!

Winter Activities Around Seattle

Bill Gates. Coffee. Rain. An outsider's impression of Seattle. They just don’t get it. But, seniors lucky enough to live in Washington’s senior communities definitely do. As more and more retirees discover the secrets of senior living in Seattle, they are spreading the word: This gem of the Pacific Northwest has a magic all its own. First, to clarify, Bill Gates, though a celebrated Seattle son, was not the city’s first mega-success story. It was sawmill operator Henry Yesler who amassed the first fortune and went on to become Seattle’s 7th and 15th mayor. And yes, you won’t lack a great cup of coffee in the city of Starbucks, but it’s just the foam on the cappuccino. The real superstar is the city’s diverse and awe-inspiring culinary scene. Finally, while no one is denying Seattle has more than its share of rainy days, especially in the winter months, the weather does not dampen anybody’s spirits. Seattle’s seniors just grab the umbrella and head out to explore the city’s treasures. Check out this list of activities and find out why senior living in Seattle is fun and fabulous even in the winter. The Seattle Public Library With 11 stories to explore, a 275-seat auditorium, and plenty of open spaces for reading or socializing, the Seattle Public Library is a warm and cozy place to find a new book, make a new friend or hang with an old friend. The Space Needle Rain or shine, winter or summer, the Seattle Space Needle never disappoints. Sip a glass of wine as you experience incredible views of the city with your new found friends from your independent senior living community in Seattle. And of course, it is on the must do list when the kids visit. It’s easy to buy tickets online to avoid long wait times. The Theo Chocolate Factory There is no sweeter experience in Seattle than a visit to the Theo Chocolate Factory. Daily tours that include plenty of tasting, unlock the mysteries of chocolate making. No matter what the weather, the chocolate will melt in your mouth. This will surely be the highlight of the grandkids’ visit, but you certainly don’t need them to feed your inner Willy Wonka. Volunteer Park Conservatory If it’s too wet to go to an outdoor park, head to Volunteer Park Conservatory and experience the best of the outdoors inside. As part of the fabric of Seattle since 1912, the conservatory strives to provide education, foster public engagement and inspire connection between people and the natural environment. Pacific Northwest Ballet Seattle boasts one of the largest and most prestigious ballet companies in the country. The company tours internationally but its home base is the Marion Oliver McCaw Hall in Seattle. You’ll be both dazzled and culturally enriched by this world-renowned group of dance professionals. Seattle Aquarium You can enjoy being surrounded by water without getting wet. Brimming with Pacific Northwest sea life, the aquarium will mesmerize at any age. There is just something about a giant octopus that is always fascinating - no matter how young or young at heart you may be. Chihuly Garden and Glass You don’t need to wait until the weather is cold and nasty to experience Chihuly Garden and Glass. Celebrating the art of glasswork, this unique and impressive museum is a Seattle jewel. Its glass house is one of the most photographed places in the city. The facility also hosts a variety of events year-round such as yoga classes or happy hours. Grab a buddy from your senior living community in Seattle and spend the day in an enchanted glass wonderland. Lynwood i s Overture’s premier over 61 active adult community in the Seattle area. This immaculate property boasts resort-worthy amenities, stunning apartments and easy access to all Seattle has to offer. Book a tour today. Once you’ve seen it, well…you’ll get it

Great Gift Ideas for Grandchildren this Holiday Season

Buying stuff for the grandkids is really fun. Figuring out just what to buy said little princes and princesses can be less fun. Sorting through the endless potential gifts for grandchildren can drive seniors to a double at happy hour! This season, think outside the tech and toy box to find meaningful gifts the kids will love and remember – for more than 10 minutes. Make it Personal Personalized gifts for grandchildren can work for any age group. Personalized books , picture frames, mugs, computer cases, or clothing are both fun and functional. And just think, every time your precious little one reads, or drinks, or opens their computer, they will think of you and be motivated to FaceTime! The Gift of Time Let the parents deal with updating iPads, and buying ice skates, or baseball mitts. Instead of adding more clutter to the already overloaded premises, why not give a gift that includes spending time together? Take a Class The best part of enrolling your grandkid in a class is you will be there too! Taking a class together is a great way to pin older kids down for quality time and strengthen the bond between you. Get on Board Purchase a board game and be sure to schedule a playdate! Check out Ticketmaster Surprise your grandkids with tickets to a kid-friendly performance on stage or ice, or a concert featuring an artist they love. Disney on Ice is always a hit with the younger kids. If you live out of town, schedule the event for your next visit. They will love sharing the experience with you. Buy a Zoo Pass Purchase a family zoo pass for the kids. If you live out of town, buy a pass near your senior living facility and you can use it when they visit. Or you can buy them a pass to the zoo near them and they can call you and tell you about their visit afterward. A Day at the Museum Passes to kid-friendly institutions like natural history museums, nature centers, art museums, or botanical gardens are a gift you can enjoy with the whole family. If you live out of town, your grandkids will be so excited to share this gift with you on their next visit. The bottom line: Any gift that facilitates time with the grandkids is a win/win. Keepsakes are Special Instead of agonizing over which hot new “it” thing to purchase, take a walk down memory lane and create a keepsake the kids will cherish. Thanks to digital platforms like Shutterfly, it’s easy to create photo books that commemorate the past. This is a gift the kids will love and continue to appreciate as they get older. You might also want to make a collage of your special times with them. These are the kinds of grandchildren gifts that genuinely keep on giving. When it comes to holiday gift ideas for the grandkids, remember: Even the coolest toys wind up in the garage bin sooner rather than later. On the other hand, the coolest grandparents are the ones who stay in touch, stay involved, and never skimp on the hugs and kisses. They never go out of style.