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Lifestyles

for every age

Community and Well-Being

Friendship and finding one’s people is important at every stage of life. When it comes to one’s golden years, it can literally be lifesaving.

Plos Medicine published a study in which they found that isolation and loneliness among older adults is as dangerous as lifelong tobacco and alcohol use and is a greater risk factor to one’s health than morbid obesity or a complete lack of activity.

“Over many years of taking care of older patients, I’ve learned that the factors many people think are most important for aging well — such as having longevity in your family or lack of physical illnesses — do not guarantee a positive experience with getting older,” said Amit A. Shah, M.D., a geriatrician, internist and palliative care specialist at Mayo Clinic. “It’s the quality, duration and nature of your relationships that seem to matter most.”

Mental and Emotional Benefits

Seniors who are actively engaged in their communities tend to experience lower levels of depression and anxiety. Regular social interactions provide a sense of purpose and belonging, which are essential for maintaining a positive outlook on life.

Engaging in community activities, whether it’s a book club, gardening

group, or volunteering, keeps a person mentally stimulated and emotionally fulfilled.

Physical Health Benefits

Community involvement also offers tangible physical health benefits. Seniors who are part of a supportive network are more likely to engage in regular physical activity, which maintains mobility and overall health. Community centers often provide fitness classes tailored for older adults, such as yoga, tai chi and water aerobics, which promote flexibility, strength and cardiovascular health.

Moreover, having a network of friends and neighbors means there are people who can offer help with daily tasks, such as grocery shopping or transportation to medical appointments. This kind of support can prevent seniors from feeling overwhelmed and reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.

Safety and Security

A strong community network enhances safety and security. Living alone can sometimes lead to feelings of vulnerability, but being part of a community provides a safety net. Neighbors and friends can check in regularly, ensuring that any potential health issues or emergencies are addressed promptly. Many communities also have neighborhood watch programs that contribute to a safer living environment.

Practical Steps to Building a Community

Join local groups. Look for clubs, classes or volunteer opportunities in your area. Senior centers often offer a variety of programs that cater to different interests.

Stay connected with family. Regular contact with family members, whether in person, over the phone, or through video calls, can provide emotional support and strengthen familial bonds. Embrace technology to stay connected. Social media platforms and community apps can help you stay informed about local events and maintain connections with friends and family.

Don’t hesitate to reach out and introduce yourself to neighbors or attend community events. Building relationships takes effort, but the rewards are well worth it.

The impact of adrenaline on the body and mind

Why

are some people thrill seekers?

Many people (not all) enjoy thrilling activities such as skydiving, riding the scariest rides at amusement parks, driving fast on the highway and watching horror movies. These activities often lead to an increased production of adrenaline. Here’s what you need to know about this mysterious hormone called the “stress hormone.”

Where does adrenaline come from, and what does it do?

An adrenaline rush starts in the amygdala, part of the limbic system in the middle of the brain. When it’s triggered due to a thrilling activity, such as bungee jumping, it sends a signal to the kidneys, which activate the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands then release adrenaline into the bloodstream.

An adrenaline rush is an innate protection mechanism that prepares the body to face danger. This hormone increases your heart rate to send more blood to your muscles, accelerates your breathing and widens your airways to help take in more oxygen. It can also intensify certain senses, such as sight and hearing. In short, its job is to help you escape or defend yourself against a threat.

Why

do some people seek it out?

Do you enjoy the feeling of sweaty palms and a racing heart? Many people do. However, adrenaline must be combined with dopamine and endorphins to elicit this euphoric feeling.

When released, dopamine puts you in a state of pure joy, making you want to scream with delight. Additionally,

endorphins make you feel good and help you enjoy the moment because you know there isn’t a real threat. For many people, the excitement of a thrill-seeking activity is its own reward. After all, who doesn’t enjoy a good reward?

Do you want to experience the positive effects of adrenaline and try something out of the ordinary? Find out about the thrill-seeking activities in your area and treat yourself to an unforgettable experience.

Activities for adrenaline junkies

• Via ferrata

• Canyoning

• Rafting

• Go-karting

• Track racing

• Paragliding

• Paintball

• Kite surfing

• Flyboarding

Check out local companies oﬀering out-of-the-ordinary experiences to plan your next stimulating activity!

10 tips for keeping your family healthy

Do you want to ensure everyone in your family is living their best, healthiest life, no matter their age? Try these 10 valuable tips:

1. Eat well. Reserve ultra-processed foods and junk food for special occasions. Make sure half your plate is plant-based.

2. Get enough sleep. Establish a sleep routine by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. Avoid screens and stimulating activities before bedtime.

3. Exercise. Do regular stretching, cardio and strength training to increase your strength, flexibility and energy levels.

4. Spend time outdoors. Get fresh air!

It’s good for both your physical and mental health. If you’re lucky enough to go for a walk in the woods, even better.

5. Visit health professionals. Schedule annual appointments with your doctor, optometrist, dentist and other health professionals. Make sure your vaccinations are up to date!

6. Stay hydrated. Drink water regularly, even when you don’t feel thirsty. Treat yourself to a cool reusable water bottle to keep you motivated.

7. Be safe. Avoid injury during your outings and sporting activities. Protect yourself with sunscreen, a bike helmet, a mouth guard and safety glasses when needed. Don’t take any chances!

8. Reduce your screen time. Set yourself limits to avoid spending all your free time playing video games, watching TV or scrolling on social media.

9. Manage stress. There are many ways to reduce your stress levels, like talking to someone close to you, listening to music and meditating. Find out what works best for you.

10. Practice good hygiene. Keep infections and illnesses at bay by washing your hands often and brushing your teeth at least twice a day. A daily shower or bath is also a good idea!

Consult your local health professionals for personalized advice.

5 ideas for low-cost—or free—family fun

Do you want to shake things up and create lasting memories with your kids without breaking the bank? Here are five low-cost ideas to inspire you.

1. Libraries. From story time and crafts for kids to workshops and lectures for adults, many libraries organize special activities for people of all ages. In addition to stocking up on books, you can borrow board games, movies and video games for endless entertainment.

2. Indoor camping. With a little imagination, you can create a cozy wilderness vacation right in your own living room. Pitch a tent, grab some folding chairs and light a woodsy-scented candle. Gather around a crackling campfire video or real fireplace, swap stories, sing songs and indulge in some delicious s’mores.

3. Museums. Many museums offer discounted admission on specific days. Whether your kids are into history, animals, science or culture, there’s something for everyone— including you. Set off to discover a wealth of information that’s as educational as it is fascinating.

4. Exploratory cooking. Search online or flip through your recipe books for inspiration to cook something new with your family. You can explore new and tasty combinations

depending on what’s in your fridge and pantry. Happy cooking!

5. Winter events. Check your local newspaper and those of nearby towns for upcoming outdoor events near you. From vibrant festivals and lively parties to exciting sports competitions, plenty of free or low-cost activities are waiting to be discovered.

You can have fun and save money this winter.

Essentials (and luxuries) for your outdoor kitchen

As warm weather approaches, it’s the perfect time to transform your backyard, patio or balcony into an inviting space for guests to enjoy delicious meals. Here are seven features you can incorporate into your outdoor kitchen to impress your friends and make the most of the summer season:

1. A barbecue

The ultimate symbol of summer, the barbecue is an essential part of any outdoor kitchen. Find a model that fits your space and budget—whether it’s built-in, freestanding or portable. Get ready to grill mouthwatering meals!

2. A versatile work surface

You need space to prepare marinades and assemble plates. Invest in a weather-resistant countertop made from materials like stainless steel or granite. Hello, style and functionality! If space is tight, consider a removable sideboard.

3. A sink

Avoid the hassle of running in and out to rinse glasses and plates by adding a sink to your outdoor kitchen. You can choose from a variety of models, including those that connect directly to your home’s plumbing or to an outdoor hose for convenience.

4. A fridge

Summer calls for cold drinks! Keep your lemonade, alcohol and meal-prep ingredients chilled with an outdoor fridge. Position it strategically so your guests have access to it, too. For a budget-friendly option, consider a

patio cooler.

5. Comfy furniture

Create a welcoming atmosphere with high-quality, inviting outdoor furniture. Pick comfortable seating, a large sunshade or awning and a sturdy table to enhance the experience.

6. A smoker

Do you want to take your outdoor kitchen to the next level? Invest in a smoker for preparing meat and fish. While some smokers can be pricey, you can find models starting at only a couple hundred dollars.

7. A kegerator

For a professional touch, install a kegerator with beer or kombucha to bring everyone together. This unique addition is sure to add fun to your gatherings and is well worth the investment.

Visit your local retailers to create the outdoor kitchen of your dreams.

Would you like to live in an intergenerational home?

Today, buying a home is becoming increasingly difficult. As many people are giving up on their dream of owning a home, others are coming up with creative strategies to make it work. This is particularly true of families choosing to buy or build intergenerational or bigenerational homes.

It’s a win-win situation

Sharing a property—and a mortgage—has many advantages. The first is obviously financial, an aspect that benefits grandparents, parents and children alike.

Living closely creates a sense of security. Knowing that your loved ones are only a knock on the door away is incredibly reassuring. In an intergenerational home, you get to strengthen your bonds every day. Grandparents can watch their grandchildren grow, play with them and be there for them whenever they need.

Finally, living with several people under the same roof means everyone can contribute based on their strengths and abilities. For example, one family member could take care of the yard, another could handle renovations and another could do the grocery shopping.

In short, despite its challenges, this lifestyle offers a fantastic chance to save time and money while enhancing everyone’s overall well-being.

50+ housing complexes

Bye-bye house, hello condo!

After the kids move out, the house can feel quite empty. If that’s the case for you, you may be considering a move to a housing complex specifically designed for active individuals aged 50 and older. Take a look at the benefits this lifestyle has to offer.

• Modern living space. Whether you want to rent or buy, many condos and apartments are newly built and offer a modern, comfortable living experience. They feature high-quality materials, excellent soundproofing, advanced heating and air conditioning systems and optimized security. In short, they have everything you need to enjoy a carefree lifestyle.

• Convenient location. If you prefer a lifestyle where everything you need is within easy reach, this option

is perfect for you. Most housing developments for independent adults aged 50 and up are strategically located near essential shops and services. This practical housing choice makes your daily errands hassle-free.

• Rich social life. Living in a community for active individuals is an excellent way to meet new people beyond your circle of work

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colleagues. In the evenings and on weekends, you can socialize with neighbors in a shared space, such as a sports field, common garden or swimming pool. You can also participate in various organized activities.

Does this stimulating lifestyle appeal to you? Visit the housing complexes that interest you and start planning the next chapter of your life today.

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Have you heard about the power of meditation?

The body’s natural aging process brings about changes that can cause issues like aches and pains, slower metabolism and sleeping difficulties. These physical changes can also impact your mental well-being. Fortunately, meditation can help reduce many of these symptoms. Here’s a quick overview of this ancient practice and its proven benefits.

The principle

Meditation can take many forms, but they all focus on breathwork. By concentrating on inhaling and exhaling, you can achieve a calm state

that enables you to view your thoughts and emotions more positively. Meditation also promotes stress release, resulting in a deeper sense of peace.

The benefits

Numerous studies have investigated the effects of meditation. Many findings indicate that it can alleviate physical pain. Meditation has also been shown to lower blood pressure and slow heart rate, which can help prevent cardiovascular diseases.

The positive impacts of meditation on mental health have also been

well-documented. It can help improve concentration and stimulate memory. Meditation also supports management and prevention of anxiety and depression—challenges commonly faced by older adults who sometimes experience feelings of isolation.

If you’d like to start meditating, look for group activities in your area or visit your local library for inspiring books on the subject.

Meditation can be practiced alone or in a group. It’s a wonderful way to care for yourself while also building social connections with others.

Adopting a pet involves the WHOLE family

Are your children begging you to get them a pet? Whether it’s a dog, cat, guinea pig, ferret or parrot, adding a furry or feathered friend to the family is a big decision. Here are a few things to consider.

Animal shelters are overflowing with amazing animals who need loving homes. Many of these animals have been abandoned by owners who weren’t prepared for the responsibility of pet ownership. You don’t want to be part of the problem.

Get informed

The first thing you need to do when considering adopting an animal is to find out everything you can about their behavior, lifespan, common health issues and dietary needs. Get the whole family involved by reading books, watching informative videos and exploring websites dedicated to the species and breed you’re interested in.

Get involved

Next, make sure all family members agree to adopt, especially if the pet will be roaming all over the house. Introducing an animal that not everyone agrees on could lead to tension, so having the entire household on board will be crucial. Also, ensure that each one of you is committed to caring for the new family member, including daily walks, grooming and other responsibilities.

Calculate the annual costs of keeping your pet happy and healthy, including veterinary appointments. Once you’ve done your research and have everything in place, visit local animal shelters or reach out to breeders in your area to find your perfect companion.

Visit the “Pet care” section of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) website for information on selecting the right pet for your family.

Unleash your inner star power: sign up for an improv class

Improv is an electrifying blend of theater, music, comedy and other complementary disciplines, embraced by both seasoned pros and enthusiastic beginners. Do you want to experience the thrill of performing live and get out of your comfort zone? Find out how improv can help.

A variety of techniques

The idea of taking to the stage can seem daunting, to say nothing of the fact that you’re performing without a script of any kind. No worries! A seasoned improv expert can guide you through the various techniques. Learn to craft captivating stories, embrace the unexpected and sharpen your communication skills, all of which will serve you well in everyday life.

A way to discover yourself

The best thing about improv is that it allows you to let your spontaneity and imagination run wild. You might just uncover talents you never knew you had. After a few games, many players discover newfound skills like singing, dancing or mimicry. While improv is great for honing your funny bone, it’s also a journey of selfdiscovery.

An important social aspect

Improv is a team sport and offers a fantastic opportunity to meet new people and foster a strong sense of community. Joining an improv league could eventually lead to participating in tournaments, making for unforgettable experiences. Improv classes exist for different age groups, including adults, teenagers or children, making it an activity for everyone. Whether you’re young or young at heart, improv offers a gateway to the joy of performing on stage.

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