Looking for the perfect place to spend quality time with mom or grandma?Finding just the right destination or activity can make for a beautiful day creating cherished memories. At Village on the Park Plano, our community members have local spots they enjoy visiting with family and friends. Below are their recommendations for where to spend time with mom or grandma when you want extra special time of connection.

Our Resident Recommendations for Time with Mom Near Denton

Spending time with the special women in your life is even better in the right setting. Fortunately, the Denton area has plenty of places to enjoy. Need even more of a reason to Live Life Well with those you love? According to The National Institute of Aging, staying socially connected offers a variety of health benefits including increased cognitive function, increased ability to cope, decreased rates of depression, and even decrease in certain diseases! Learn more about the health benefits of social connection here

If staying in is your preference, enjoy our beautiful campus here at Village on the Park Plano with your family. Interested in learning about social connection and fun activities available every day at Village on the Park Plano in Plano, Texas? Contact us to schedule a tour!

Consider if the secret to a longer existence was simpler than your current understanding. Stretching from the sun-drenched hills of Sardinia to the tranquil coasts of Okinawa, five distinct global locations—identified as the Blue Zones—demonstrate that people not only achieve greater longevity but also Live Life Well, experiencing vitality, purpose, and happiness extending into their nineties and beyond.

What exactly defines the Blue Zones?

The Blue Zones were initially pinpointed in 2004 through the collaborative efforts of Dan Buettner, National Geographic, the National Institute on Aging, and the foremost longevity experts worldwide. In these regions, individuals celebrate 100th birthdays at a rate 10x greater than in the United States. They also maintain their vigor well into their nineties and beyond, enjoying active and fulfilling lives.

Although blue zone communities are located across the globe, Buettner’s team discovered nine common traits shared by these individuals that contribute to Living Life Well.

Curious how they do it? We’ve identified nine surprisingly straightforward daily routines prevalent in these long-living communities—and how you can integrate them into your own lifestyle, especially here at Village on the Park Plano.

Spoiler alert: It’s not about trendy diets or endless workouts…it’s about community, meaning, and balance.

Activity

  1. “Move Naturally” – Consistent daily movement is an organic part of life in these areas. You can make it a more inherent aspect of your routine by using the stairs, choosing to walk or bike instead of driving, and engaging in gardening.

Outlook

  1. “Purpose” – According to the Blue Zone Project, having a sense of purpose is worth up to seven years of extra life expectancy!! This can be your family, a volunteer role, or a hobby you are passionate about.
  2. “Down Shift” – While stress is a universal experience, regardless of location, it’s crucial to establish daily practices that assist in alleviating your stress. At Village on the Park Plano, we provide guided meditation, yoga sessions, or serene spaces for unwinding.

Eating

  1. “80% Rule” – Consuming food until you are 80% full rather than 100% can significantly benefit your health.
  2. “Plant Slant” – Instead of meat being the primary source of protein, beans are central to the dietary patterns in The Blue Zones. Explore new recipes featuring fava, black, soy, and lentil beans to incorporate into your diet.
  3. “Wine at 5” – Individuals in the Blue Zones consume alcohol in moderation, typically one to two glasses per day with friends and meals. Happy hours are a resident favorite here at Village on the Park Plano.

Connect

  1. “Positive Pack” – Establishing a supportive social circle can reinforce healthy behaviors that enable you to Live Life Well. Village on the Park Plano grows a strong sense of community through regular social gatherings and activities.
  2. “Loved Ones First” – Prioritize spending quality time with your spouse, children, and grandchildren. We offer ideal settings and opportunities for residents to connect with family.
  3. “Belong” – A feeling of belonging is vital for overall well-being. At Village on the Park Plano, our focus is on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where every resident feels valued and connected.

Passport to Adventure: Lessons from Ikaria, Greece

While relocating to Ikaria might not be practical, we can adopt some of their healthy habits into our own lives. For this month’s Passport to Adventure Destination, we turn our attention to Ikaria, Greece, one of the Blue Zones! Our residents will enjoy a variety of enriching activities here at Village on the Park Plano inspired by this remarkable island.

Interested in joining the excitement of our Monthly Passport to Adventure destinations? Schedule a tour!

The arrival of spring brings abundant chances to Live Life Well, including longer days to enjoy the sun. It’s more than just a feeling; The sun’s impact on our bodies is truly substantial.

The Science of Sunlight

Vitamin D Production

Maybe its most recognized advantage, sunlight initiates Vitamin D synthesis within the skin. This crucial vitamin aids in calcium absorption, fundamental for maintaining bone strength and preventing osteoporosis. As we age, our bodies’ capacity to generate Vitamin D lessens, making sun exposure increasingly significant. The Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation indicates approximately 54 million Americans have osteoporosis and low bone mass, underscoring Vitamin D’s intake importance.

Mood Enhancement

Sunlight elevates serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and promotes feelings of happiness and well-being.This can be especially advantageous for older adults who might experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD), depression, or related mood difficulties.

Enhanced Sleep Patterns

Sunlight helps regulate our circadian rhythm, the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Daylight exposure during the day can improve nighttime sleep quality. This is particularly vital for seniors, as sleep habits can alter with age.

Improved Immune Function:

Sunlight is key for bolstering immune defenses. Vitamin D’s role in supporting the immune system is well-known; however, research from Georgetown University Medical Center also indicates that sunlight, through a mechanism independent of vitamin D production, energizes T cells, which are crucial for immunity. Maintaining a healthy immune system is vital for seniors to resist illness and sustain overall health.

Cognitive Advantages:

The National Institute of Health suggests Vitamin D can reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Adequate sun exposure, and thus sufficient vitamin D, can contribute to preserving mental acuity.

Enjoying Sunlight at Village on the Park Plano

At Village on the Park Plano, we prioritize designing spaces that maximize natural illumination. Our residences feature large windows and thoughtfully arranged communal areas that allow for enjoying the sun’s warmth and beautiful views.

Our beautifully landscaped outdoor spaces and activities encourage walks with neighbors, outdoor social gatherings, or relaxing with a book while basking in the sun. Additionally, we organize trips to local Plano parks and scenic off-campus locations.

Safe Sun Exposure Practices

While sunlight’s benefits are substantial, practicing safe sun exposure is crucial. We advise:

Enhancing Well-Being: Utilizing Sunlight’s Benefits

At Village on the Park Plano, we are dedicated to providing a lifestyle that supports comprehensive wellness. By leveraging the straightforward yet powerful advantages of sunlight, you can improve your physical, mental, and emotional health. We invite you to experience the warmth and vitality of our community, where each day presents an opportunity to live well.

Experience the beauty of spring with us! Arrange a tour.