Maintaining an active lifestyle is essential at any age, but it becomes increasingly important for older adults. Regular physical activity can enhance mobility, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Incorporating exercise into your daily routine doesn’t have to be daunting.

We’ll review how much exercise seniors need, benefits of physical activity, some exercises to help seniors stay active and healthy, and tips to get started on making exercise a consistent part of your day.

How Much Exercise Do Seniors Need?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that older adults aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, such as brisk walking.

Additionally, muscle-strengthening activities should be included at least two days a week. This can be broken down into manageable chunks, such as 30 minutes a day, five days a week.

How Does Physical Activity Benefit Seniors?

Engaging in regular exercise offers numerous benefits for seniors, including:

• Improved Cardiovascular Health: Regular exercise helps maintain heart health and reduces the risk of heart disease.
• Enhanced Mobility and Flexibility: Physical activity strengthens muscles and improves joint flexibility, reducing the risk of falls and injuries.
• Better Mental Health: Exercise releases endorphins, which can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
• Weight Management: Staying active helps in maintaining a healthy body weight, reducing the risk of obesity-related diseases.
• Increased Bone Density: Weight-bearing exercises strengthen bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
• Social Interaction: Participating in fitness classes or group activities provides opportunities for socializing and building connections.
• Reduced Stress: Physical activity reduces stress and promotes relaxation.
• Improved Blood Circulation: Regular exercise improves blood flow throughout the body.

What Are Simple Exercises for Seniors?

Starting an exercise routine doesn’t require a gym membership or special equipment. Here are some simple exercises that can be done at home or in the community:

• Walking: A low-impact exercise that can be done anywhere, and is great for improving cardiovascular health and maintaining muscle mass.
• Chair Exercises: Sit in a sturdy chair and perform leg lifts, arm raises, and seated marches to increase strength.
• Balance Exercises: Stand on one foot or walk heel to toe to improve balance and reduce the risk of falls.
• Strength Training: Use light weights or a resistance band to strengthen muscles and improve bone density.
• Practice Yoga. Engage in yoga classes to enhance flexibility, balance, and relaxation.
• Stretching: Gently stretch to improve flexibility and reduce muscle stiffness.

How To Add Activity to Your Daily Routine

Building physical activity into your daily routine can be easy and enjoyable. Here are some tips to get started:

• Set Realistic Goals: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts.
• Schedule Exercise: Treat your workout like an appointment. Set aside specific times each day for physical activity.
• Incorporate Activity into Daily Tasks: Take the stairs instead of the elevator, park further from the store entrance, or walk while talking on the phone.
• Join Fitness Classes: Take advantage of the balanced exercise classes and programs offered at Waterstone. These classes are designed to cater to various fitness levels and provide a social aspect to exercising.
• Create an Exercise Plan: Develop a regular exercise routine that includes a mix of cardiovascular, strength training, and flexibility exercises to ensure a comprehensive approach to fitness.
• Stay Motivated: Make exercise fun and social by joining group activities, celebrating your milestones with friends, and staying positive about your fitness journey. Keeping track of your progress and rewarding yourself along the way can also enhance your motivation and enjoyment.

As you start your fitness journey, you’ll discover what activities you enjoy most and what works best for your body. This insight will help you develop a personalized fitness routine you love, making it easier to stay active and committed.

Hydration: A Key Component of Fitness

Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during the summer months when older adults are more prone to dehydration. Here are some tips to ensure you remain well-hydrated:

• Drink Plenty of Water: Aim to drink at least eight cups of water a day and increase your intake if you’re exercising or spending time in hot weather.
• Eat Water-Rich Foods: Incorporate fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges, into your diet.
• Rehydrate After Workouts: After exercising, make sure you hydrate to replenish lost fluids. Waterstone communities offer a bistro or juice bar with unique options for hydration after a fitness session.

Wellness Made Easy at Waterstone

Wellness is a way of life during any season at Waterstone Senior Living communities. Our fitness classes and programs – led by expert instructors – are designed to help you incorporate physical activity into your daily routine, ensuring you stay healthy and active all year round.

Whether it’s through our balanced exercise classes, strength training sessions or an aquatics class in the heated indoor pool, you have everything you need to thrive. Best of all, there are always friends to exercise with at Waterstone, which can make it easier to turn exercise into a healthy habit. 

Find a location near you to learn more about how you can enhance your lifestyle and well-being in one of our vibrant communities.

As the sun warms the earth and gardens burst with life, summer brings a bounty of fresh, seasonal ingredients ripe for the picking. For seniors, embracing the flavors of summer not only adds variety to meals but also offers a wealth of nutritional benefits.

In this guide, we’ll explore the importance of eating seasonally and highlight some of the best summertime superfoods to incorporate into your summer cooking repertoire.

What Are the Benefits of Eating Seasonal Foods?

Eating seasonally isn’t just about enjoying the freshest produce; it’s also about nourishing your body with the nutrients it needs as we age. Nutritional needs may change for seniors over time, making it even more crucial to prioritize wholesome, nutrient-dense foods.

Seasonal produce is typically harvested at its peak ripeness, meaning it’s packed with flavor and nutrients. By eating seasonally, seniors can ensure they’re getting the vitamins, minerals and antioxidants their bodies need to thrive. Keep in mind that the more colorful the food, the more likely they are to have the nutritious content that your body needs to maintain optimum health and fight off disease. Fresh produce is also typically high in both water and fiber, which work together to help support a healthy digestive system.

Additionally, seasonal eating supports local farmers and reduces the environmental impact of food transportation. By choosing locally grown, seasonal produce, seniors can support sustainable agriculture practices and reduce their carbon footprint.

What Are Some of Summer’s Superfoods?

With so many fantastic seasonal foods to eat in the summer, you may not know where to start. When you’re looking for the next great ingredient to add to your summer recipes, you’ll definitely want to consider these healthy options:

1. Berries

Summer is synonymous with berries, from juicy strawberries and blueberries to antioxidant-rich raspberries and blackberries. Berries are not only delicious, but they’re also packed with vitamins, fiber and antioxidants that support brain health and immune function. This is the perfect time of year to add fresh berries to yogurt, oatmeal, salads and smoothies, or even use them in dessert for a special treat.

2. Tomatoes

Is there anything more quintessentially summer than a ripe, juicy tomato? Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health and cancer prevention. Use fresh tomatoes to make salsa, bruschetta, or a simple caprese salad with fresh basil and mozzarella.

3. Leafy Greens

While leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are available year-round, they’re at their peak during the summer months. These nutrient-packed greens are high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and iron. Incorporate them into salads and smoothies, or sauté them as a side dish.

4. Zucchini and Summer Squash

There’s nothing like cooked zucchini and summer squash on a summer day. Versatile and abundant, zucchini and summer squash are low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins and minerals. Spiralize them into noodles for a light and nutritious pasta alternative, grill them as a side dish, or bake them into muffins or bread for a sweet treat.

5. Corn

Sweet corn is a summer staple that adds a burst of flavor and texture to any meal. Corn is rich in fiber, B vitamins, and antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which support eye health. Enjoy corn on the cob, toss it into salads or salsas, or incorporate it into soups and chowders.

6. Watermelon and Cucumbers

Watermelon and cucumbers are both part of Cucurbitaceae, or the melon family, and both are made mostly of water which makes them wonderfully hydrating foods for summer. With high water content, it means they are both low in calories but still high in nutrients. Eat watermelon on its own or part of a salad for a refreshing twist. Add cucumbers to sandwiches or salads for a satisfying, healthy crunch.

7. Peaches

Peaches are a summertime favorite that are also considered a superfood as they are an excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, fiber, vitamin B6, niacin and folate. Peaches can help you maintain heart and digestive health as well as protect the body from diseases and some cancers.

Waterstone Communities: Where Fresh Ingredients Shine

At Waterstone Senior Living communities, residents benefit from an exquisite dining experience that celebrates the flavors of each season. Our chefs are passionate about using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create delicious and nutritious meals for our residents.

Each community boasts garden beds, where residents can grow fresh vegetables, herbs and fruits, which are often incorporated by our chefs into meal preparation. This farm-to-table approach not only ensures the highest-quality ingredients but also fosters a sense of community and connection to the food we eat.

Embracing the flavors of summer doesn’t have to be complicated. By incorporating fresh, seasonal ingredients into your cooking, seniors can enjoy delicious meals that are both nutritious and satisfying. At Waterstone Senior Living communities, it’s made even easier with a chef and exceptional culinary team that prepares delicious seasonal dishes that are tailored to individual tastes and dietary preferences.

From vibrant berries to sun-ripened tomatoes and crisp leafy greens, summer offers a wealth of culinary possibilities. So head to your local farmers market or garden and savor the sun-kissed flavors of the season. Your body and taste buds will thank you.

Get a Taste of the Good Life at Waterstone

Ready to tantalize your taste buds and experience the vibrant flavors of summer? At Waterstone senior living communities, our chefs create culinary delights that nourish your body and soul. Don’t just take our word for it. Come experience the Waterstone difference for yourself. Find a community near you today.

With summer on the horizon, it’s time to put the winter blues behind us and start planning warm-weather destinations. But you don’t have to head south to make the most of a spring or summer getaway. We’ll share tips on how to plan a memorable weekend to local vacation areas or attractions near bustling Northeast cities.

Conveniently located Waterstone Senior Living communities offer the perfect launching pad for these weekend adventures. Let’s explore some delightful destinations while highlighting the seamless travel experiences facilitated by Waterstone Senior Living.

1.   Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Escape to the iconic shores of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, where quaint villages, beautiful beaches, and mouthwatering seafood await. Explore historic Provincetown, relax on the sandy beaches of Hyannis, or take a scenic drive along the Cape Cod National Seashore.

Accessible accommodations and wheelchair-friendly attractions ensure everyone can enjoy the Cape’s coastal charm.

2.   Newport, Rhode Island

Discover the elegance of Newport, Rhode Island, with its opulent mansions, scenic waterfront, and vibrant downtown scene. Tour historic estates, stroll along the picturesque Cliff Walk, or embark on a harbor cruise.

Newport’s flat terrain and accessible sights make it an inviting destination for travelers of all abilities.

3.   Portland, Maine

Immerse yourself in the culture and cuisine of Portland, Maine, with its bustling waterfront, artsy Old Port district, and renowned culinary scene. Explore art galleries, boutique shops, and local eateries, or visit the iconic Portland Head Light for breathtaking views.

With wheelchair-friendly pathways and accommodations, Portland ensures an enjoyable urban getaway.

4.   Block Island, Rhode Island

Journey to the tranquil shores of Block Island, a serene escape just off the coast of Rhode Island. Discover pristine beaches, scenic trails, and charming seaside villages.

Rent a bike to explore the island’s picturesque paths or unwind at secluded beaches like Mansion Beach. Accessible lodging options and transportation services make Block Island an ideal retreat for all.

5.   The Hamptons, New York

Indulge in the sophisticated ambiance of The Hamptons, a beloved summer destination for New Yorkers. Experience the upscale shops, art galleries, and pristine beaches that define this coastal enclave.

From upscale dining to laid-back beach days, The Hamptons offer something for everyone to enjoy, with accessible accommodations available for travelers with limited mobility.

Waterstone Senior Living: Easy Access to Adventures

At Waterstone Senior Living, we are passionate about fostering a lifestyle of exploration and adventure for our residents. We believe in empowering individuals to embrace every opportunity that retirement has to offer, including the joy of travel.

With the ability to simply lock your door behind you and leave, we make it effortless for residents to embark on exciting adventures. Our private transportation services allow for convenient and comfortable travel to a variety of local attractions. Take a day trip to a nearby museum or an outing to the local city center. Many of our Waterstone communities are also close to public transportation, allowing access to the area’s finest retailers, restaurants and more. We also offer parking at all Waterstone communities for residents to have their own vehicles available for use.

Our communities also organize group outings to local attractions, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among residents. From cultural landmarks to natural wonders, these excursions offer a wealth of opportunities for enrichment and connection.

With Waterstone Senior Living, the world is yours to explore. Whether you’re exploring the rich history of a historic town or marveling at the beauty of nature, we are here to support your adventures and help residents create unforgettable memories.

Living the Waterstone Lifestyle

Picture a lifestyle brimming with activity and luxury service, complemented by an array of amenities tailored to your every need. At Waterstone communities, we redefine independent senior living with a level of attentive care and responsive assistance that sets us apart.

Immerse yourself in the comfort of our thoughtfully designed apartments, where every detail contributes to a sense of home. Surrounded by friendly neighbors and supported by a knowledgeable concierge, you’ll experience unparalleled service that caters to your unique preferences and requirements.

Beyond the comfort of your home, you’ll have access to an impressive selection of amenities, each designed to enhance your lifestyle and foster a sense of community. In our vibrant environment, you’ll discover a wealth of new opportunities waiting to be explored. This includes:

• Exclusive living spaces boasting distinctive architectural design and décor
• Multiple dining venues encompassing restaurant-style, bistro, and secluded dining options
• Lobby lounge and bar area
• State-of-the-art fitness center complete with an indoor heated swimming pool
• Comprehensive salon and spa
• Entertainment amenities such as a movie theater, card room, and library
• Dedicated spaces for media and artistic pursuits
• Convenient parking facilities

Embrace Every Possibility with Waterstone Senior Living

Retirement isn’t about slowing down; it’s about savoring every moment. At Waterstone Senior Living, the retirement lifestyle of your dreams is within reach. Experience the joy of accessible travel, vibrant community life, and endless possibilities. Contact us today and step into a future filled with adventure and fulfillment.

As active older adults transition into retirement, searching for a premier senior living community becomes a pivotal decision. The right community can elevate their retirement living experience by ensuring a vibrant and engaging environment, offering a maintenance-free lifestyle, and providing security for the future. Because of this, it’s crucial to consider numerous factors to ensure the chosen community aligns with specific needs and preferences.

We’ll dive into the key categories of what you or a loved one should look for in a senior living community to help guide your search.

Location

The location of a senior living community is more than just a geographical aspect; it’s about creating an environment that suits your lifestyle. Look for communities that offer proximity to healthcare facilities, shopping centers, and cultural attractions. Access to nature, parks, and recreational areas can contribute to a better quality of life, promoting both physical and mental well-being.

At Waterstone, each community features a prime location with a range of features, amenities, and options to meet your or your loved one’s needs and preferences.

Waterstone at the Circle

Located in Boston at the foot of Chestnut Hill, Waterstone at the Circle puts you close to the city’s retailers, restaurants, and area attractions.

Waterstone on High Ridge

Close to downtown Stamford, CT, Waterstone on High Ridge offers a continuum of care with a beautiful hillside location near a conservation area.

Waterstone of Lexington

The first thing you’ll notice about Waterstone of Lexington is its stunning mid-century design, situated among the quiet beauty of a wooded conservation area in Lexington, MA.

Waterstone at Wellesley

If you or a loved one are looking for luxury senior living in the Wellesley area, you’ll find it along the banks of the Charles River at Waterstone at Wellesley.

Waterstone of Westchester

Curated style, fulfilling lifestyle, and a beautiful location near fine shops and restaurants in White Plains, NY? You’ll find it all with Waterstone of Westchester.

Levels of Care

Understanding the level of care and living options provided in each retirement community you are considering is paramount in selecting the right location for yourself or a loved one.

Some communities specialize in independent living, while others offer various levels of support, accommodating potential changes in health and wellness over time. At Waterstone, you can often find all of the above, with offerings including:

Independent Living

Enjoy an active lifestyle supported by attentive services and distinctive amenities. If needed, on-site supportive care services are available through valued healthcare providers.

Assisted Living

Communities offering assisted living services feature dedicated support without compromising your or your loved one’s lifestyle. Continue living carefree and enjoying life maintenance-free all while having access to 24-hour personal care.

Memory Care

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with dementia, it’s possible to be supported by Bridges^® by EPOCH, which provides world-class memory care services for those within or adjacent to select Waterstone communities.

Active, Wellness-Focused Lifestyle

An active lifestyle is essential for maintaining physical and mental health in older adults. Premier senior living communities will emphasize programs, activities and events that promote socialization, physical fitness, and mental stimulation.

Look for communities that offer fitness centers and indoor pools, walking trails, group exercises classes, and other wellness programs. A robust activity calendar ensures there are ample opportunities for residents to participate in events that align with their interests and hobbies. Within Waterstone communities, you can expect all of this and more.

Engaging Programming

An enriching and diverse range of programs is a hallmark of premier senior living communities. From educational seminars and cultural events to hobby clubs and wellness classes, engaging programming fosters a sense of community and purpose. Evaluate the community’s commitment to providing a stimulating and fulfilling lifestyle through well-planned activities.

At Waterstone Senior Living communities, residents enjoy programs like:

• Creative art classes
• Aquatics classes
• Tai chi and yoga
• Lifelong learning seminars
• Book clubs and meet-the-author events
• Social hours and live entertainment
• Movie nights
• Chef demonstrations
• Competitive card or board games

Premier Amenities

Amenities contribute significantly to the overall lifestyle experience in senior living communities. Look for features that Waterstone Senior Living communities offer, such as:

• Various dining venues from formal to casual – and even catering
• Chic and cozy lounges, bistros and bar areas
• Fitness centers with indoor heated pools
• Libraries, movie theaters, and card rooms
• Media and arts centers
• Outdoor spaces, gardens, and recreational areas

Well-Appointed Apartments

One of the best ways to distinguish a premier senior living community is with its apartment features. Most communities offer several floor plan options in a variety of sizes to meet individual preferences, but the style and finishes of an apartment can make all the difference.

Waterstone Senior Living communities feature spacious, pet-friendly apartments with elevated details that make residents feel right at home. Each bright, stylish apartment includes a designer kitchen, luxurious bathroom with walk-in shower, spacious living areas, walk-in closet, washer and dryer, and abundant natural light.

Maintenance-Free Lifestyle

One of the key attractions of senior living communities is the promise of a maintenance-free lifestyle. Premier communities like Waterstone manage tasks such as housekeeping, landscaping, home maintenance, and repairs, allowing residents to enjoy their time without the burden of household chores.

Gourmet Culinary Experience

When searching for a premier senior living community, you can expect the dining experience to stand out from the crowd. At Waterstone communities, the culinary teams create seasonal menus featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Creative dishes that are not only nutritious but please the palate (and are customized to dietary restrictions) are served with hospitality and ambiance in beautiful dining spaces.

The Perfect Option for Premier Senior Living Awaits at Waterstone

For New England seniors, there’s no better place to choose for your retirement than Waterstone Senior Living. To explore our communities, visit our website or contact us today.

Waterstone Senior Living’s driving philosophy is to create more than just beautiful living spaces for seniors; it’s about fostering a sense of home. Waterstone’s premier communities feature stunning architecture and design complemented by convenient amenities, concierge services, exquisite dining experiences, dynamic programs, and dedicated teams ready to serve. With a strong commitment to health and wellness, Waterstone provides luxurious communities where seniors aged 62 and over thrive. Contact us today to schedule a tour to one of our Waterstone communities, located in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York.

What are you looking for in your ideal senior living community? Is it location, style, services, amenities, programs, or fine dining? If you’re like many Waterstone residents, your answer is likely “all of the above.”

This desire for an elevated lifestyle leads so many older adults to our premier communities – but don’t take it only from us. In this blog, we’ll share more about what Waterstone residents love most about our senior living communities.

Upscale Atmosphere

After a long hunt for a senior living community in the Boston area, I was thrilled to find the Waterstone of Lexington. This place is 5-star in every way – the staff, the building, the food, the residents, the activities. It is vibrant, very social, and always a treat to visit. I didn’t think luxury and senior living were possible until I found the Waterstone of Lexington – there is nothing like it!

– Jeanna, Daughter of Waterstone of Lexington Resident

Waterstone Senior Living communities are designed with the utmost consideration for the comfort and convenience of residents. From thoughtfully crafted living spaces to common areas that encourage socialization, our communities are built to enhance the overall quality of life for older adults.

Our attention to detail, luxurious amenities, and environment create a community where residents can truly relax, continue learning, nurture their passions, and live as they please.

Maintenance-Free Living

“Instead of worrying about what to cook for dinner every night or the household tasks like changing the sheets every week, we get to enjoy the fitness center daily, attend vibrant programs, and make incredible new friendships.

– Theresa and Frank, Waterstone on High Ridge Residents

Waterstone relieves residents of the burdens associated with homeownership, including housekeeping, home maintenance, and general upkeep. The beauty of maintenance-free living in a luxury apartment allows residents to focus on enjoying their interests and hobbies without worrying about household chores or necessary repairs. Our carefree Waterstone lifestyle helps them to live bigger in a smaller space.

Exquisite Dining

“I have been to some of the best restaurants in Massachusetts, and I just can’t think of any changes I would make to the menu at Waterstone. Whether you’re a meat eater or a vegan – they’ve got it. And they’ve got it just right.”

– Morris, Waterstone at the Circle Resident

At our Waterstone Senior Living communities, skilled chefs curate menus that meet the nutritional needs of older adults and offer a culinary journey filled with diverse flavors and options.

Residents can savor delicious meals in elegant dining rooms, fostering a sense of community and making every meal a delightful occasion. And, if they choose, they can cook within their own apartment, sharpening their culinary skills and sharing their own creations with new friends.

Active Social Life

“After living in two other senior communities, Waterstone of Westchester is quite unique and a delight to live in. It’s great to be back in Westchester and reconnecting with old friends. The staff here really does a fantastic job engaging the residents with many different programs.”

– Muriel, Waterstone of Westchester Resident

Waterstone Senior Living communities are bustling with social activities, events, and clubs tailored to the varied interests of residents. We encourage residents to take part in an active social life, from art classes and fitness programs to book clubs and cultural events.

Enriching Programs

Life at Waterstone has opened a wonderful new chapter of my life filled with laughter, new friendships, and more activities than my favorite cruise!

– Alissa, Waterstone on High Ridge Resident

Residents have access to educational programs, workshops, and lectures catering to diverse interests. This commitment to intellectual engagement keeps the mind sharp and curiosity alive.

Opportunities to Enhance Wellness

I chose Waterstone because it is gorgeous, and everybody is friendly. The exercise programs and instructors are fantastic!”

– Hazel, Waterstone of Westchester Resident

Our holistic approach to wellness sets us apart. From personal training and wellness classes staffed by professional instructors to state-of-the-art fitness centers and tailored wellness programs, older adults can maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.

Concierge Services

Elevating the experience, our concierge services add an extra layer of luxury and convenience. From organizing transportation to coordinating appointments, handling reservations, and providing assistance, concierge services are dedicated to making life seamless for residents.

Worry-Free Lifestyle

“Waterstone has not only been a tremendous gift in my life in independent living, but the greatest gift was how happy my husband was in memory care. The warm, friendly staff and residents make the community a place where people truly care about each other! I just love it here!”

– Mary S., Waterstone on High Ridge Resident

Recognizing the evolving needs of older adults, many of our communities offer access to supportive care services or even higher levels of care, such as assisted living or memory care. Residents can live fully knowing support is available if health needs change over time.

Ready to Experience Waterstone Communities for Yourself?

We’d love to have you come visit one of our welcoming communities! Contact the community nearest you today.

Explore Waterstone Senior Living

Waterstone Senior Living’s driving philosophy is to create more than just beautiful living spaces for seniors; it’s about fostering a sense of home. Waterstone’s premier communities feature stunning architecture and design complemented by convenient amenities, concierge services, exquisite dining experiences, dynamic programs, and dedicated teams ready to serve. With a strong commitment to health and wellness, Waterstone provides luxurious communities where seniors aged 62 and over thrive. Contact us today to schedule a tour to one of our Waterstone communities, located in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York.