Maintaining heart health is essential as we age. This is especially true for seniors, as they are often at a higher risk of heart disease and cardiac illness.
By incorporating heart-healthy foods into your diet, you can reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, improve heart function, and manage risk factors like high blood pressure and high LDL cholesterol levels. Below are 11 heart-smart foods that offer a range of health benefits, along with some recipes from the American Heart Association.
Foods That Boost Heart Health
Leafy Greens
Leafy green vegetables such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are not only packed with essential nutrients but also contribute to reducing the risk of heart disease. They are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and various vitamins that support heart health.
Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and trout are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids can help lower triglycerides, reduce inflammation in the blood vessels, and improve overall heart function.
Delight in the sweetness of berries, such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries. These little gems are high in antioxidants, which protect blood vessels and reduce the risk of heart disease. The fiber content in berries can help manage cholesterol levels.
Embrace the hearty goodness of whole grains like oats, brown rice, and quinoa. They provide ample fiber, which assists in controlling cholesterol and blood pressure, ultimately reducing the risk of heart disease.
Enjoy the crunchy satisfaction of almonds, walnuts, and pistachios. These nuts are not only delicious, but they are also rich in healthy fats, fiber, and protein, making them effective in lowering LDL cholesterol.
Elevate your culinary creations with olive oil, particularly extra-virgin olive oil. Its low saturated fat content and high monounsaturated fat content can improve heart health. Fun fact: It’s also a fundamental component of the heart-healthy Mediterranean diet.
Low-fat or fat-free dairy products offer essential nutrients without the saturated fats commonly found in full-fat options. These dairy products are also excellent sources of calcium, crucial for maintaining healthy blood pressure.
Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are a source of fiber, protein, and potassium, which help in managing blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart disease.
Treat yourself to the rich and indulgent taste of dark chocolate, especially those with a high cocoa content (70% or higher). Dark chocolate boasts an abundance of antioxidants and may help reduce stress, indirectly promoting heart health.
The vibrant red of tomatoes conceals the heart-healthy secret of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. Lycopene contributes to a reduced risk of heart disease and improves blood vessel function.
Green tea contains catechins, compounds associated with heart health benefits. Because of this, green tea can help lower LDL cholesterol and minimize the risk of blood clot formation.
In addition to adding these delectable foods to your diet, you should also consider other heart-healthy habits, including regular exercise, quitting smoking, managing stress, limiting alcohol consumption, and staying hydrated. This can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and lead to a longer and healthier life.
Indulge in a Lifestyle You’ll Savor
At Waterstone of Lexington, our chef and dining services team craft delicious, heart-healthy meals to meet seniors’ preferences and needs. In addition, we offer a range of ways to stay active and engaged, further enhancing health and wellness. Get a taste of our lifestyle for yourself by scheduling a visit and savoring a delicious lunch, on us.
As we age, our needs change, and for many couples, the prospect of moving into assisted living becomes a reality. Assisted living communities like Waterstone at Wellesley offer a range of services and support to help seniors maintain their independence while receiving the care they need. However, one common question that arises is whether couples can live together in assisted living. In this blog post, we will explore the options and considerations for couples who wish to age together in assisted living.
Understanding Assisted Living
Before delving into whether couples can live together in assisted living, it’s essential to understand what assisted living entails. Assisted living facilities are residential communities designed for seniors who require some assistance with daily activities but still want to maintain their independence. These communities provide a comfortable living environment, social engagement opportunities, and various levels of care and support.
5 Factors to Consider When Choosing Assisted Living for Couples
1. Level of Care Needed
The first consideration when deciding whether a couple can live together in assisted living is the level of care required by each individual. Assisted living typically offers several levels of care, from minimal assistance with daily tasks to more extensive support. Couples should assess their specific needs and determine if the community can accommodate both of them adequately.
2. Apartment Options
Many assisted living communities offer different types of accommodations, including one-bedroom, two-bedroom, or even shared apartments. Couples should inquire about apartment options that allow them to live together comfortably. It’s essential to find a space that suits both partners’ needs and preferences.
3. Cost
The cost of assisted living can vary significantly depending on location, services, and the level of care required. Couples should carefully assess their budget and discuss the financial aspects of moving into assisted living.
4. Compatibility with Current and Future Needs
Couples should consider their current and potential future health conditions. For example, one partner may currently be fully independent, while the other may require limited support. Couples should choose a community that can adapt to changing needs. At Waterstone at Wellesley, couples may choose to have one partner in independent living while another lives in assisted living, or perhaps both move to assisted living, even with varying levels of support.
5. Social and Recreational Activities
Assisted living communities often offer a wide range of social and recreational activities to keep residents engaged and connected. Couples should inquire about the availability of activities that both partners can enjoy together. This helps maintain their emotional well-being and fosters a sense of community.
Living Options for Couples in Assisted Living
Shared Apartments
Many assisted living facilities offer the option for couples to share an apartment. These apartments typically include a living area, bedroom, kitchenette, and a bathroom. Couples can live together in a comfortable and private space while still having access to assistance when needed.
Individual Apartments in Close Proximity
In cases where shared apartments are not available, couples may opt for individual apartments located in close proximity to each other within the same community. This arrangement allows couples to maintain their independence while being near each other for companionship and support.
Flexible Care Plans
Assisted living communities often provide flexible care plans that can be customized to meet each resident’s specific needs. Couples can work with the wellness team to create a care plan that accommodates both partners’ requirements.
Benefits of Couples Living Together in Assisted Living
Emotional Support
One of the most significant advantages of couples living together in assisted living is the emotional support they provide to each other. Companionship and shared experiences can significantly enhance their well-being and quality of life.
Enhanced Quality of Life
Assisted living communities offer various amenities and activities that couples can enjoy together. From dining together in a communal setting to participating in group outings and hobbies, couples can maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle.
Reduced Loneliness and Isolation
Loneliness and social isolation can be significant challenges for seniors. Living together in assisted living can help combat these feelings by providing constant companionship and opportunities to connect with others in the community.
Improved Health Outcomes
Studies have shown that couples who live together in assisted living tend to have better mental and emotional health outcomes. The support and care they receive from each other can contribute to a higher quality of life.
Luxury Assisted Living for Couples at Waterstone at Wellesley
Waterstone at Wellesley in Wellesley, MA, offers a truly couple-friendly lifestyle that caters to the unique needs and desires of seniors looking to age together with grace and comfort. This exceptional assisted living community provides a warm and welcoming environment where couples can thrive.
With spacious and well-designed apartments, Waterstone at Wellesley ensures that couples can maintain their togetherness while receiving the individualized care they may require.
The community’s vibrant social calendar and a wide array of recreational activities offer opportunities for couples to bond, make new friends, and create lasting memories together. From fine dining experiences to wellness programs and scenic surroundings, Waterstone at Wellesley is dedicated to providing an enriching and couple-centric living experience that enhances their quality of life during their golden years.
If you or your spouse needs some additional assistance, the last thing you’d want is to be separated. At Waterstone at Wellesley, you’ll be there for each other every step of the way, along with our wonderful team of caregivers. Give us a call to schedule a personalized tour.
If you’re searching for senior living or assisted living for yourself or a family member, you’ll hear a lot about activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (iADLs). These tasks are essential to everyday life, but both vary widely. Learn more about these tasks, and their differences, below.
Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
What are ADLs?
Those in independent living or assisted living may need support with basic daily tasks from time to time. These are referred to as activities of daily living (ADLs).
What do ADLs include?
These tasks include those we learn from an early age, including:
Eating
Bathing and brushing teeth
Dressing
Managing personal hygiene and grooming
Using the restroom
Mobility
When is this form of support needed?
Often those who need support with ADLs are still able to remain independent or may need some assisted living support. Support may also be needed as seniors rehabilitate after illness or injury.
Who helps with these skills?
Depending on a senior’s needs, family members may step in to help for the time being. They may also receive support within a senior living community while in independent living or assisted living.
Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (iADLs)
What are iADLs?
As older adults age, they need more support with instrumental activities of daily living (iADLs), as they are more complex than ADLs.
What do iADLs include?
These tasks are learned as we age and consist of the following:
Housework like laundry and cleaning
Managing finances
Transportation
Medication management
Meal preparation
Grocery shopping
When is this form of support needed?
Support is usually needed with these tasks as seniors age because they lose organizational skills and other necessary abilities to complete these tasks.
Who helps with these skills?
If a senior isn’t receiving support with this through an assisted living or personal care community, family members or caregivers may be supporting them in completing these tasks.
Experience Dedicated Support at Waterstone of Lexington
Assisted living at Waterstone of Lexington can help you with activities of daily living while taking the pressure of instrumental activities of daily living off your shoulders.
Our caring team helps those who require support with activities like eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, and maintaining personal hygiene. Our lifestyle also removes the need to worry about housekeeping, management of finances, cooking and grocery shopping, transportation and medication management.
This allows older adults to remain as active as possible while staying connected and engaged in community life. Contact us at 781.996.0601 to learn more about how our community supports seniors and helps them maintain independence.
In a previous blog, we discussed Sudden Retirement Syndrome, a term for the mixed emotions that some individuals feel when their reality of retirement doesn’t immediately live up to their expectations. In order to keep SRS at bay or to help banish it if you find yourself experiencing it, part of your retirement plan should be seeking new opportunities to engage your mind and participate in meaningful activities.
The beautiful thing about retirement is that you finally have time to pursue options and interests that you may not have been able to in the past due to work, family or other commitments. We’ve put together a list of 17 different pursuits to pique your interest, focus on what matters to you, and make your golden years the most interesting, vibrant ones yet.
17 Ways to Spend Time in Retirement
1. Travel
Have you ever longed to see more of the world? Retirement is the perfect time to pack a bag and travel as close or as far as you desire. 25 percent of retirees travel internationally each year, and many more of them enjoy a road trip or other domestic traveling throughout the year. If wanderlust strikes you, consider looking into senior-focused tour companies that specialize in creating amazing experiences for the 50 and older crowd.
2. Find a Part-Time Job
While this may seem counterintuitive – after all, isn’t retirement when you stop working? – getting a part-time job can be incredibly beneficial to a senior’s physical, mental, and emotional health. A few examples of popular part-time jobs for seniors include being a store greeter, a pet sitter, delivery driver, and more.
3. Improve Your Health
Regular physical activity is essential for helping older adults age well and stay healthy. Now that you aren’t working full time, you have additional opportunities to take exercise classes, pick up a new sport, and spend time getting your blood pumping while having fun, too. Consider joining a club to try new activities and meet new people while staying active.
4. Become a Mentor
Mentoring others, whether you enjoy working with kids, young adults, or professionals, is an excellent way to share your knowledge and make the world a better place. Mentoring can be formal, informal or a mix of both. A few great organizations that offer mentorship opportunities are AmeriCorps and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. Other places to look include local schools, community organizations, and places of worship.
5. Go Back to School
School isn’t just for young kids anymore. Many retirees use their free time to take classes to learn new skills like acting, cooking, music, history, gardening, and more. Some seniors choose to earn a degree and start a secondary career doing something that has always interested them. Various community colleges and universities offer specialized programs for seniors that are either low- or no-cost. Other organizations, like Alison, offer free online classes with certifications.
6. Adopt a Pet
It turns out that having a furry friend is good for our hearts and bodies. The American Heart Association reports that people who own pets have lower stress and blood pressure and higher fitness levels and happiness and well-being than non-pet owners. Many seniors choose to adopt senior animals, helping give an older animal a loving home in their golden years. If you want the joy of a pet without the responsibility, you can become a foster parent or volunteer at your local animal shelter.
7. Learn a Second Language
Learning a new language helps keep your brain nimble, introduces you to other cultures, and is just plain fun. Even if you don’t plan on traveling overseas, the act of learning a language helps improve mental acuity and can potentially help stave off cognitive decline. While you can opt for an in-person class, there are many online courses like Duolingo and Babbel that help link you with native speakers and use cutting-edge research to help you begin speaking like a professional.
8. Volunteer
Volunteering is a very popular activity for retirees who wish to use their free time to donate to causes that are meaningful to them. Volunteering connects you to like-minded people, helps you stay social, and gives you a sense of purpose. There are countless opportunities for volunteering at both the local and national levels. A good place to start and find opportunities in your area is through Senior Corps, which is focused on connecting people 55+ with worthwhile causes.
9. Join a Book Club
Book clubs are a great opportunity for older adults to make new friends, socialize, think critically, gain new perspectives, or simply read a book that they might not otherwise have selected . Check out your local library to see if there are any clubs that interest you, or ask friends and family if they have a group that would be interested in having a new member.
10. Spend Time with Friends and Family
Many retirees plan on spending more time with family and friends during their golden years. Not only does this give you a chance to build and strengthen those relationships, but social connections also help seniors avoid depression, isolation and loneliness. Find ways to meet up with friends and family on a regular basis, whether it’s for a weekly phone call, family dinner on Sundays or a monthly trip to see your grandkids. You’ll make memories that can be cherished for years to come.
11. Trace Your Family Tree
Learning your family history can be enlightening, interesting and even surprising. Genealogy is easier than ever to trace these days, thanks to sites like Ancestry. You can also document family stories for future generations with online services that allow you to create a family book or by doing an interview for the national StoryCorps project.
12. Become a Tour Guide
Are you interested in sharing your passion about the local area? Becoming a tour guide or docent can be an excellent opportunity to get out into the community and share your love and knowledge. Maybe you live near a local historic site and can volunteer at the visitor’s center. Or perhaps you’d like to create a walking tour of some offbeat history that occurred in a nearby neighborhood. Check with your local historic buildings and monuments to see how you can play a role.
13. Declutter Your Home
Refresh your home and free up your retirement lifestyle by finally taking the time to go through your house and get rid of things that you don’t want or need. (This can be an excellent jump-start toward eventually downsizing to a smaller home or a senior living community.) Go through those dusty boxes in the attic and look through the family pieces that you don’t really use but haven’t been able to get rid of yet. You can also gift heirlooms and treasured pieces to your family members so they can enjoy them while you’re around to see it.
14. Play Brain Games
Keeping your brain sharp through Sudoku, logic puzzles, or other brain-teaser games can help stave off memory loss, improve your mood, and potentially even help you avoid cognitive diseases like dementia. Don’t feel like cluttering your home with hard-copy puzzle books? Download apps to your smartphone or tablet to get endless games that you don’t have to physically store.
15. Find a New Group Activity
Joining a group, whether it’s a crafting group, movie club, pickleball league or tennis group, gets you out of the house, out of your comfort zone, and into the company of others from different generations and backgrounds. Your local Parks and Recreation department is a great place to look for affordable classes and activities that may be of interest to you.
16. Find a New Solo Activity
Being in the company of others has many benefits, but it’s also rewarding to have time all to yourself that you can use to work on a project, activity or interest. Create a must-read list, or set up a studio in your home where you can paint or do woodworking. Bake goodies and donate them to nearby hospitals or hospice homes. Creating something with your own two hands can be incredibly rewarding.
17. Be a Tourist in Your Own Town
Retirement is a great time to visit all the local sites, attractions and festivals taking place in your area that you’ve always heard about but have never visited. Head out to your town’s First Fridays or Third Thursdays to take in live music and local foods, and visit local farmer’s markets to source some homegrown produce. Check out your town’s Chamber of Commerce and calendar of events to learn about activities and events that can be fun for the whole family.
Reinvent Your Retirement at Waterstone on High Ridge
At our elegant senior living community in Stamford, CT, our active and vibrant lifestyle provides so many ways for you to fill your retirement years with meaning, fun and fellowship. Our residents enjoy their own private, maintenance-free apartments that free up their time so they can fill their days how they wish. We invite you to contact us at 203.541.0868 to learn more about our beautiful community and to see how we can help you make the most of your senior living experience.
Fall in New England, what could be better?! If you’re looking for the top ways to celebrate the fall season in Wellesley, Massachusetts, we’re here to help! Check out some of our favorite annual Wellesley traditions below.
1 | View the Fall Foliage
If you’re an ardent leaf-peeper, there are plenty of places to find beautiful foliage around Wellesley. Consider adding a few of these locations to your stop:
Tour the Eaton-Moulton Mill or Hunnewell Estates and see the beautiful surrounding landscape
2 | Pumpkin or Apple Picking
Easily an Autumn staple, the season doesn’t quite feel complete without some pumpkin patch or apple orchard fun. Bring the family, including the kids, for a fun, festive time. Bonus points if you carve the pumpkins and bake the pumpkin seeds or if you opt to make an apple-themed dessert!
3 | Holiday Festivities, Fall Festivals, and Cultural Events
Summer concerts and movies on the Town Hall Green are over, and so is the Wellesley Wonderful Weekend, which boasts Wellesley’s Veterans parade. Despite this, there’s so much more to enjoy as that familiar chill fills the air. Check out these Wellesley celebrations and events that are sure to delight.
Enjoy a concert at Wellesley College
Go to a book reading at Wellesley Books
Take a workshop at Babson College
Visit Wellesley Hills for the Halloween Stroll
4 | Seasonal Baking and Dining
At Waterstone at Wellesley, our team loves crafting delicious seasonal meals. If one of your passions is baking or cooking, try a new recipe, cook with friends, or have a movie night where each attendee crafts a special dish. There are plenty of ways to delight in the flavors of the season.
Walk on one of the many nature trails throughout Wellesley
Participate in a 5k race or the Turkey Trot
Take a bike ride along the trails
Make the Most of Autumn with Waterstone at Wellesley
With the leaves falling and temperatures dropping, it’s the perfect time to think about staying cozy in our beautiful community. Say goodbye to housekeeping and home maintenance, cooking, and isolation. Instead, Waterstone at Wellesley takes care of it all, leaving you to enjoy your season, not count down the days until it’s over!
Not only this, but Waterstone at Wellesley keeps you close to everything you love in our area while providing even more opportunities for fun, including:
Writing seminars and art classes
Health and wellness programs, like yoga and tai chi
Historical and cultural lectures
Book clubs and game groups
Movies in the theater
Community events, social groups, and outings
Ready to learn more or experience our lifestyle for yourself? Call 781.304.8169 to schedule your visit today.
The air is crisp, the leaves are turning brilliant shades of gold and red, and pumpkin spice is everywhere. Fall in Boston is truly a magical time. For older adults, families, and anyone who loves New England charm, this season offers endless opportunities to soak in the scenery, explore the outdoors, and enjoy seasonal traditions.
If you’re ready to celebrate autumn in style, we’ve gathered a list of the best fall foliage drives in and around Boston, plus bonus ideas for seasonal activities, day trips, and cozy stops along the way.
Drive Around Boston Common – Then Have a Picnic
There are plenty of beautiful fall colors to see throughout Boston Common. Take a drive around the perimeter or park and go for a walk. If you decide to take off by foot, consider exploring the public garden.
Take the Scenic Route Along the Charles River
Take Memorial Drive in Cambridge to see the foliage of Boston over the Charles River. If you prefer to ride your bike, ride along the Charles River Esplanade.
Harvard’s Arnold Arboretum is a great place to leaf peep! Explore the 281-acre landscape by foot or drive along the roads to enjoy a brief look of all the colors.
Travel Along Freedom Trail®
Take in a little history during this gorgeous season by stopping along historical sites on the Freedom Trail®. As you travel to each stop, you’ll see stunning views while enjoying the opportunity to learn.
Go Beyond Boston
If you’re up for a longer drive, Boston is perfectly located for easy day trips to some of New England’s most scenic foliage routes:
Kancamagus Highway (NH): A world-famous drive through the White Mountain National Forest, perfect for peak foliage season.
Mohawk Trail (Western MA): Known as one of the first scenic byways in the U.S., this route offers mountain views and quaint towns.
Walden Pond (Concord, MA): Famous for its literary ties to Henry David Thoreau, the pond is especially peaceful in autumn.
Jacob’s Ladder Scenic Byway (Berkshires): A winding road with classic small-town stops and expansive views.
Seasonal Activities to Add to Your Drive
Why stop at a scenic view when you can make a whole day of it? Here are some classic New England autumn activities to pair with your foliage drive:
Fall Festivals & Craft Fairs: Check community calendars for local harvest events, hayrides, or live music
Apple Picking & Cider Tasting: Visit nearby orchards for apple picking, cider donuts, and fresh-pressed cider.
Pumpkin Patches & Farmstands: Take home seasonal produce or carve a pumpkin with the grandkids.
Local Cafés & Bakeries: Warm up with pumpkin spice lattes, mulled cider, or classic New England clam chowder.
Autumn at Waterstone at the Circle
You don’t even need to leave home to enjoy fall foliage when you live at Waterstone at the Circle. Our community offers:
Stunning autumn views from the fifth-floor lounge balcony.
Easy walks to Cassidy Park and Chestnut Hill Reservoir.
Cozy gathering spaces to relax with a warm drink after a day out.
Here, residents enjoy the best of both worlds: easy access to Boston’s culture and history alongside the comfort of a supportive, luxury retirement community.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing like autumn in New England, and Boston is one of the best places to experience it. Whether you’re setting out for a scenic drive, exploring historic landmarks, or simply enjoying the colors from your own window, fall is the perfect season to savor life’s beauty.
At Waterstone at the Circle, residents are surrounded by both the vibrancy of Boston and the comfort of community living. Contact us today to schedule a tour and see for yourself why this is home.
This year’s awards celebrate the industry’s top people, projects, and programs.
In a time of economic uncertainty, multifamily owners, developers, architects, and builders continue to raise the bar for creating innovative and thoughtful communities that cater to residents’ needs. Our 2023 MFE Awards winners exemplify the tenacity and perseverance happening across the nation.
Out of nearly 240 nominations, the jurors selected 12 grand winners and 11 merit winners. In addition, the jurors selected Atlas at Park & Paseo, the grand winner in the mid-rise category, as the Multifamily Project of the Year. Developed by Alliance Residential and designed by AO, Atlas is the third and final phase of Park & Paseo, a mixed-use development that has transformed an 18-acre industrial site in Santa Ana, California.
As part of the MFE Awards, we also honor indusry leaders who are helping move the industry forward:Executive of the Year Lili Dunn, president and CEO of Bell Partners; and Hall of Fame inductee Harry Bookey, founder of BH.
Read more about what these multifamily leaders are bringing to their companies, their communities, and the industry as a whole as well as what makes our grand winners shine.
From historical sites and buildings to cultural events, seasonal fun, and more, there’s so much to enjoy in Lexington. Below are some of the top activities for seniors in Lexington, Massachusetts.
Run by the Massachusetts Horticultural Society, the Gardens at Elm Bank combines beauty, contemplation, exploration, history, and more. This is a perfect way to spend a day featuring classes and programs, natural beauty, and opportunities to learn.
Lexington has a wonderful symphony right in its own backyard. With various shows, events depending on the season, and various educational programs, this is a great way to get involved in the community, enjoy the arts and support our local musicians.
Visit various pre-Revolutionary war buildings, including:
The Buckman Tavern, the oldest tavern in Lexington
The Hancock-Clarke House, which was the destination of Paul Revere and William Dawes the night they rode to warn Samuel Adams and John Hancock about the British soldiers coming
The Munroe Tavern, where President Washington dined in 1789
When Autumn arrives, our beautiful area comes alive with red, orange, and yellow foliage. A destination for many fall lovers, you’re sure to find a plethora of things to do and fall events to enjoy.
Whether you love to walk, ride your bike, jog, or simply enjoy the beauty nature holds, there are a variety of paths that can accomplish your goals. Check them out by clicking the link above and get inspired to get outdoors.
The change of seasons doesn’t mean a decrease in fun. Lexington offers a range of festivals and cultural events for the whole community to enjoy. Be sure to check out the 30th Annual Fine Arts and Crafts Festival.
Speaking of arts and crafts, the Lexington Arts and Crafts Society is a great way to explore your talents, embrace your passions and really enjoy the art that others create. Consider taking a class, viewing an exhibit, or even volunteering.
Last month, we shared the best healthy foods for your heart. As an active older adult, you may find yourself wondering about the best foods that will provide you with an extra boost of energy.
Maintaining your energy levels as you age will help you keep your physical and mental health in peak condition. So if you’re an older adult finding yourself nodding off while you watch TV or feeling a lot more tired than you did several years ago, you may need to start looking at what you’re putting into your body.
Eating the right types of food will help increase your energy levels, build your endurance, and allow you to continue doing the things you enjoy. As a bonus, most of the energy-boosting foods found below also are excellent at keeping your heart healthy, maintaining your blood sugar levels, increasing muscle and bone strength, and boosting your immune systems.
We’ve put together a list of seven foods that provide seniors with a much-needed energy boost, along with a variety of additional health benefits. You’ll notice that the list includes lean proteins, vegetables, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and other foods that provide vitamins and minerals while helping maintain energy throughout the day.
1. Nuts
Nuts like almonds, walnuts, cashews and pecans are chock-full of healthy fats, proteins and amino acids that strengthen and rebuild muscles. The fiber and carbohydrates found in nuts are digested more slowly than what you find in refined grains, which helps provide a steady supply of energy throughout the day.
Add more nuts to your diet by topping your salad with nuts instead of croutons, adding a handful to your morning oatmeal, and choosing roasted nuts over potato chips or other empty-calorie snacks.
2. Whole Grains
Skip the white bread and all-purpose flour and choose whole grains like quinoa, whole-wheat bread, oatmeal and barley for a high-fiber hit that provides energy throughout the day, helps regulate cholesterol and blood sugar, and keeps you regular. Some grains are also filled with protein, which is instrumental in maintaining muscle mass (which helps with balance, bone health and overall mobility).
Add more whole grains to your diet by choosing whole-grain bread over white, eating oatmeal for breakfast, and trying new side dishes like quinoa salad instead of a regular lettuce salad or coleslaw.
3. Berries
Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and blackberries are low in sugar and high in antioxidants and fiber, making them a great sweet treat that provides a slew of health benefits. Enjoy them fresh for an extra hydration hit, or snack on dried ones (in moderate amounts) for an energy boost or a delicious addition to salads, breads and desserts.
Add more berries to your diet by tossing some into a breakfast smoothie, sprinkling some on a salad, enjoying a high-energy snack of trail mix, or savoring a light dessert of berries and dark chocolate.
4. Fish
Oily, cold-water fish like tuna, salmon, mackerel and sardines are excellent lean proteins that help your heart (thanks to their omega-3 fatty acids), improve joint function, prevent cognitive decline and – you guessed it – boost energy.
Add more fish to your diet by adding salmon to your salad, enjoying a tuna fish sandwich, or choosing a tuna steak instead of a T-bone.
4. Low-fat dairy
Low-fat dairy options provide protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins like B12, without the added calories that come from full-fat versions. Unsweetened and Greek yogurt can add oomph to your salad dressing, soups and side dishes without sacrificing taste, and cheese makes pretty much any dish sing!
Add more low-fat dairy to your diet by using Greek yogurt in place of sour cream or mayonnaise, shred some cheese onto a salad or in your soup, and sip a glass of milk for a midday pick-me-up.
5. Fruits and vegetables
We’ve already mentioned berries, but fruits and vegetables overall are excellent choices for filling your plate (and your stomach) with delicious tastes and energy boosters. Even “sugary” fruits like bananas and grapes provide nutritional boosts such as potassium, vitamin C and fiber. While there are some “smarter” choices such as sweet potatoes; lower sugar fruits; and dark, leafy greens, you really can’t go wrong by choosing these foods as a snack.
Add more fruits and vegetables to your diet by snacking on an apple or banana, adding a vegetable side dish to dinner, or enjoying a whole orange instead of drinking a glass of orange juice.
6. Beans and lentils
Bean, lentils and legumes are a great source of non-animal protein as well as vitamins and minerals like magnesium, iron, zinc and fiber. They provide a steady boost of energy as your body digests the complex carbohydrates, keeping you energized longer.
Add more beans and legumes to your diet by adding them to your salads and soups, tossing them into an egg dish for breakfast, and serving them as a side with fish or chicken.
7. Water
Water is a liquid, not a food, but it is essential for helping you boost your energy, stay healthy, and build your strength. Staying hydrated helps muscles function properly, keeps your joints healthy, improves your digestion, and so much more. Plus, as an active adult, it’s even more essential to stay hydrated, because seniors become dehydrated much more quickly than their younger counterparts.
Add more water to your diet by choosing sparkling water over soda, sipping on herbal tea instead of coffee, and choosing fruits and vegetables high in liquids.
Fuel your healthy, active senior lifestyle at Waterstone on High Ridge
Aging well and staying active has never been easier. At Waterstone on High Ridge, our engaging lifestyle is designed to help older adults live the retirement lifestyle they want and deserve. With a focus on whole-body wellness, a jam-packed calendar of inspiring programming, and fine dining that’s both nutritious and delicious, you’re in for a treat. We invite you to visit and enjoy a complimentary lunch to learn more about our vibrant, engaged senior living community.
In our previous Tech Talk blog post, we shared the benefits of Amazon Echo and how its Alexa technology can help enrich and enhance your lifestyle. Today, we’re sharing another piece of lifestyle technology that literally follows you wherever you go: the Apple Watch.
What Is the Apple Watch?
Remember the old Dick Tracy cartoons and his famous two-way radio watch? The Apple Watch takes that idea and runs with it for a 21st-century device that does more than just tell time: It’s a communication hub, a health and fitness tracker, a music player, a portable link to the internet, and so much more.
Originally released in 2015, the Apple Watch is now in Series 8 and has all-new features, including an electrocardiogram app, a temperature sensor, a heart rate sensor, a blood oxygen app, a sleep monitoring app, and more. These new features make it an especially useful device for seniors and their family members because it provides a next-level, immediate view into one’s health, fitness and safety.
How Can Apple Watches Help Seniors?
Most people use the Apple Watch for health and fitness (which Apple Watch models were originally designed for). As a fitness tracker, the Apple Watch has heart rate monitors, step trackers, and goal settings so that you can gamify your health and wellness.
The newest Apple Watch SE and Apple Watch Series 8’s echocardiogram app is a useful tool for seniors who may have heart issues. It has irregular heart rhythm notifications, as well as high and low heart rate notifications. It also provides information on your sinus rhythm and atrial fibrillation, among others. The Apple Watch’s technology can store all this medical information, which makes it easy to upload real-time, accurate data to your doctor or caregiver.
Benefit for Seniors: Fall Detection
All Apple Watches have a built-in accelerometer and gyroscope, which can detect falls – a very helpful feature for seniors who may have balance and mobility issues. When the watch detects a fall, it activates an Emergency SOS feature that can be dismissed within 60 seconds. If the message isn’t dismissed, the watch can automatically contact emergency services and share accurate, real-time locations so that medical professionals know exactly where to go to provide assistance.
Benefit for Seniors: Emergency SOS
The Apple Watch – like other Apple products, including the iPhone and iPad – includes an Emergency SOS feature that lets you quickly call 911 with just the press of a button. Seniors can also set up their watches to send a message to caregivers, family members, or other emergency contacts if an accident or emergency occurs.
Benefit for Seniors: Medical Alert
No longer do you need to wear a physical medical alert bracelet in the event of an emergency. The Apple Watch allows you to set up a Medical ID in the Health application. There, you can store information about allergies, medications, blood type, emergency contact numbers, and more. It’s a streamlined, easy-to-update feature that allows you to keep track of important health information.
Health Monitoring Options for Seniors and Caregivers
Beyond providing fitness monitoring and emergency service features, the Apple Watch has a variety of non-emergency trackers that can help seniors and their loved ones create health goals and monitor a variety of factors to determine trends and locate any issues.
Benefit for Seniors: Sleep Monitor
Getting a good night’s sleep is instrumental for cognitive health and overall wellness. The Apple Watch can record your sleep trends for the past 14 days, estimating how much time you spend in each sleep stage. You can also create bedtime schedules that help you meet your sleep and wellness goals.
Benefit for Caregivers: Check-Ins
The Apple Watch can allow loved ones and caregivers to check in on senior family members via free apps like ElderCheck Now. When this app is enabled, approved individuals can check their loved one’s heart rates and request check-ins through the Apple Watch. With just the press of a button, seniors can let their loved ones know that everything’s fine, providing peace and security for everyone involved without even having to make a phone call.
Benefit for Seniors: Medication Reminders
Using another free App, Mango Health, seniors can get medication and healthy habit reminders so they don’t have to worry about missing a dosage. Other apps like CareZone include features such as prescription medication deliveries and other time-saving options that allow seniors to live a little more independently.
Benefit for Seniors: Connection and Entertainment
Of course, as with other lifestyle technologies like Amazon Alexa, the Apple Watch is plugged into all the benefits that you enjoy on your iPhone, iPad or Mac computer. With just a few taps, seniors can check the weather, read the news, watch funny cat videos, FaceTime grandkids, listen to music … the options are only limited by your imagination.
Enhance Your Lifestyle and Stay Connected at Waterstone of Westchester
There are so many ways that technology can assist people of all ages, and at Waterstone of Westchester, we’re always searching out the latest and greatest technologies to help enrich our residents’ lives. Beyond health and wellness, engagement and entertainment, programming and connection, we also provide in-person, caring support to help you or a loved one. Call us today to learn more about the technologically advanced and personalized caring we offer.
