05/07/202305/07/2023

Mobility: The Key to Healthy Aging and Independence

Aging is an inevitable part of life, but with the right strategies and support, it is possible to maintain a high quality of life well into our golden years. One critical aspect of healthy aging is maintaining mobility, which can significantly impact social and economic independence, as well as physical and mental health. In this post, we will explore the importance of mobility for older adults and discuss how to promote it for a more fulfilling and healthy life. We will draw on research from McMaster University’s Institute for Research on Aging, a leading centre for aging research, to provide insights and recommendations.

The Importance of Mobility in Healthy Aging

Physical Health

Maintaining mobility helps older adults stay physically active, which is vital for overall health. Regular physical activity can prevent or delay chronic conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. It also strengthens muscles and bones, reducing the risk of falls and fractures (McMaster University, Institute for Research on Aging).

Mental Health

Mobility supports cognitive health by stimulating brain function and promoting the growth of new neurons. Research from McMaster University’s Institute for Research on Aging has shown that engaging in regular physical activity can improve cognitive function, slow cognitive decline, and decrease the risk of dementia.

Social Interaction

Staying mobile allows older adults to participate in social activities and maintain relationships with friends and family. Social interaction is crucial for mental health, as it helps to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation that can contribute to depression and anxiety.

Economic Independence

Mobility enables older adults to continue working, volunteering, or participating in community activities, providing them with a sense of purpose and economic independence.

Strategies to Promote Mobility in Older Adults

Encourage Regular Physical Activity

Encourage older adults to engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or tai chi. The World Health Organization recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week for adults aged 65 and older.

Create Safe and Accessible Environments

Ensure that older adults have access to safe, age-friendly environments that encourage physical activity. This may include installing handrails in bathrooms, ensuring well-lit walkways, and providing access to community centres with exercise facilities designed for older adults.

Promote Preventative Healthcare

Regular check-ups and screenings can help detect and address potential health issues before they become severe. Encourage older adults to stay up-to-date with vaccinations and attend routine medical appointments.

Provide Mobility Aids

For older adults with mobility limitations, assistive devices such as canes, walkers, and wheelchairs can help maintain independence and encourage physical activity.

Encourage Social Engagement

Support older adults in staying socially active by encouraging participation in community events, clubs, or volunteer opportunities. Social interaction can help motivate older adults to stay mobile and maintain their overall health.

Mobility is a critical aspect of healthy aging, with significant implications for social and economic independence and physical and mental health. By promoting mobility among older adults, we can help them maintain their independence and enjoy a higher quality of life. The research conducted by McMaster University’s Institute for Research on Aging highlights the importance of mobility and provides valuable insights into how to support older adults in staying active and engaged. By implementing these strategies, we can contribute to healthier, happier, and more independent older adults in our communities.

in Health and Fitness Posted by Nautical Lands Group

04/30/202304/30/2023

Super Smoothies: Boost Your Health and Wellbeing!

Today, we’re going to discuss the amazing world of smoothies and how they can boost your health and wellbeing. Smoothies are not only delicious and easy to make, but they can also be packed with essential nutrients that help support a healthy lifestyle. So, let’s dive in and learn more about these delightful drinks and how they can benefit you.

Benefits of Smoothies

Easy Digestion: As we age, our digestive systems may become less efficient. Smoothies are a great solution, as they are blended and therefore easier to digest. This means your body can quickly absorb the nutrients without putting too much stress on your system.
Nutrient-Dense: Smoothies can be packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. By incorporating a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, you can create a nutrient-dense drink that helps support overall health and wellbeing.
Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining good health. Smoothies are an excellent way to increase your fluid intake, as they often contain a high water content from fruits and vegetables.
Customizable: One of the best things about smoothies is their versatility. You can easily tailor them to suit your dietary needs and preferences, making them a perfect choice for anyone, including those with specific dietary restrictions.
Weight Management: Smoothies can be a great tool for managing your weight. By using healthy ingredients and controlling portion sizes, you can create a satisfying meal replacement or snack that supports your weight goals.

Recipes to Try

Green Machine Smoothie Ingredients:

1 cup of spinach
1/2 cup of kale
1/2 banana
1/2 cup of frozen mango
1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed
1 cup of almond milk
1 teaspoon of honey (optional)

Berry Blast Smoothie Ingredients:

1 cup of mixed berries (frozen or fresh)
1/2 cup of Greek yogurt
1/2 cup of almond milk
1 tablespoon of chia seeds
1 teaspoon of honey (optional)

Nutty Banana Smoothie Ingredients:

1 banana
1 tablespoon of almond or peanut butter
1 cup of unsweetened almond milk
1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed
1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon

Smoothies are a fantastic addition to a healthy lifestyle. They provide an easy, delicious, and customizable way to consume essential nutrients while supporting digestion and hydration. Give these recipes a try, and feel free to experiment with different ingredients to find the perfect blend that meets your needs and taste preferences. Cheers to your health and wellbeing!

04/23/202304/23/2023

Fun-tastic Benefits of Walking!

Hey there, youthful-at-heart! Did you know that walking is an absolute powerhouse when it comes to boosting your health and happiness? You might be surprised at the incredible benefits that come from putting one foot in front of the other. So, let’s dive into why walking is a must!

Body and Soul Serenade

Walking isn’t just good for your physical well-being – it’s a treat for your mind, too! Strolling around your neighborhood or a nearby park can help you destress, clear your mind, and rejuvenate your spirit. Walking is the perfect recipe for serenity.

Social Butterflies Unite!

Walking is a fantastic way to bond with friends, family, or even make new connections. Join a walking club or simply invite a buddy for a regular walk-and-talk session. It’s a double win: you get to catch up with loved ones while staying active!

A Dose of Vitamin D

Step outside and bask in the glorious sunshine (safely, of course)! Walking outdoors not only exposes you to fresh air but also provides a healthy dose of vitamin D. Just don’t forget your sunscreen and hat!

Joint Jamboree!

Walking is a low-impact exercise. It helps to keep your joints flexible, reducing stiffness and discomfort. Plus, it can improve balance and coordination, which are essential for preventing falls.

Heart-to-Heart

Walking is a fantastic cardio workout that strengthens your heart, lowers blood pressure, and improves overall cardiovascular health. You don’t need to be a marathon runner to reap the benefits – a brisk walk will do the trick!

Brain Power Boost

Walking is not only a treat for your body but also your mind. Studies have shown that regular walking can help maintain cognitive function, improve memory, and reduce the risk of dementia. So, let’s get those neurons firing!

Happiness Overload

Walking can release endorphins, aka the “feel-good” hormones. Regular walks can improve your mood, reduce anxiety, and help ward off depression. It’s like a natural happy pill, without the side effects!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your comfiest pair of shoes, a bottle of water, and a positive attitude. Let’s stride our way to better health, happiness, and longevity!

in Health and Fitness Posted by Nautical Lands Group

04/16/202312/15/2023

Lucy’s Hilarious Commercial Adventure: A Must-Watch Classic TV Moment

Get ready to bust a gut with the ultimate throwback TV gem! If you’re a fan of classic TV, we’ve got a treat for you. Today, we’re inviting you to join us in watching the iconic episode of I Love Lucy, “Lucy Does A TV Commercial.” In this hysterical episode, our favorite red-headed queen, Lucy (aka Lucille Ball), finally lands a gig as a spokesperson for a hot new diet supplement. But brace yourself, because things get wild and wacky as she takes one too many shots and gets a little too loosey-goosey on set. Don’t miss out on the laughs! Click here to watch the video.

in Carefreedom Living® Posted by My Wellings

04/09/202305/03/2024

The Power of Play: Rediscovering the Joy of Fun in Adulthood

Welcome to the Good Life with Kat & Nat. This week they discuss the importance of play and how it’s not just for kids. They explore the benefits of play according to the National Institute for Play, such as promoting optimism and a sense of belonging. Kat & Nat share their personal experience of rediscovering the joy of play in adulthood and encourage viewers to prioritize play and fun in their daily lives. They suggest various activities that can be considered play, such as board games, crafting, and dancing, and emphasize the importance of connecting with others through play.

So, sit back, relax, and join Kat & Nat in exploring the power of play and fun. Click here to watch the video.

in Healthy Aging, Video Blogs Posted by The Good Life With Kat & Nat

04/01/202305/03/2024

How Play Can Change Your Life for the Better

Were you one of those kids who went outside to play with your friends and the only rule was you had to be home before the streetlights came on? Or if you were underfoot in the house, your Mum would say go outside and play and you did. Happily. Nobody had to teach us how to play, we were ready for any adventure and willing to try new ways to enjoy playtime. That’s kids for you, right?

According to the National Institute for Play in the United States, we can all benefit from play. The unfortunate part is that we’ve been conditioned to believe that play is for children. It’s time to set the record straight. The NIP states that “play is the gateway to vitality.” According to their studies, play makes us more optimistic, it promotes a sense of belonging and community, among other things. In her recent TED Talk on the power of fun, author Catherine Price says that fun is not frivolous or optional; fun is the secret to feeling alive at any age.

A few years ago, Wellings’ VP of Marketing Natalie Tommy and I were touring some Wellings communities. I remember so clearly when we were visiting Goderich, Ontario. There was an outdoor play and exercise area on the lakeshore. We hopped on swings, a teeter totter, an elliptical and both giggled while we played on the equipment. We were experiencing the freedom children feel when they play. It was both energizing and inspiring; we felt so alive. That’s what it is to have fun and play. When we share the experience with friends, it increases our delight, we let go of perfectionism and simply enjoy the moment.

Sure, adulting is hard. We have a lot of pressure with our to do lists, the demands of family, work life and the stress we can feel around the use of our electronic devices but somewhere in there, there must be time for play and fun. Play creates connection, encourages lightheartedness, often induces laughter, and makes us resilient. Play makes for good relationships and it benefits our health, especially our immune system.

“Play is training for the unexpected.”
– Marc Bekoff

Consider walking, jogging, gardening, and yard chores as play instead of work to get the ball rolling. Are there games you like to play? I’m a secret Scrabble lover and I’ve been known to lie well when playing Balderdash. LOL. Board games are good play, so why not invite a few friends to join you for an afternoon or evening session? Forget the competitive aspect of game playing and you’ll have more fun. Karaoke is hilarious but maybe that’s just when I try to sing. LOL. Participate in a dance class, take up a musical instrument or if crafting is your thing, invite some friends to join you in making crafts around the holidays or doing some baking together.

Certain activities help with our brain function and memory like card games, chess, puzzles; any game that challenges the mind. There’s golf and one of the fastest growing sports for seniors: pickle ball. If you don’t like sports or don’t feel up to getting out on the course or the court, try sitting outside on a beautiful day and looking for animal shapes in the clouds. Our beautiful imagination has no limitations, and it loves to have fun.

During the Pandemic some of us became socially isolated and now that we’re resuming more normal activities, we can focus on connecting with other people to keep ourselves socially fit. Get-togethers are good fun and too often, we wait for someone else to arrange them. Why not organize a coffee or tea party for no reason (or make one up) and invite a few friends to bring their favourite sweet treat to share?

“We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.”
– George Bernard Shaw

A good conversation can feel like play if you keep the topic light, which you can do by steering the discussion with questions about each other that prompt positive memories. Laughter is good medicine, especially in these strange times, so movie nights to watch a comedy with friends or going to a comedy club should help increase the feeling of having fun together. Too often we humans are eager to share our complaints but complaining does nothing to improve the situation. It’s just a signal that something needs to shift, and it may very well be your mindset.

I encourage you as I encourage myself to make play and fun a priority every day. As often as possible, share your play time with others to increase the benefit. It’ll make for more joy in your day which will make you a better friend and a better partner. I don’t know who started the rumour that life is serious business, but I can tell you that the power of play and fun will light you up on the inside and help transform your life for the better.

Enjoy this short video clip of Nat and Kat having a blast. Click here to watch the video.

This Wellings blog by Kathie Donovan was exclusively written for Wellings Communities and appeared first on MyWellings.com.

in Healthy Aging Posted by Kathie Donovan

03/26/202305/03/2024

The Swedish Art of Aging Exuberantly: Celebrating the Life of Margareta Magnusson with Maria Shriver

Celebrating her life in her 80’s, and taking a frank look at it infused with humour creates a secret sauce for her version of the good life.

I think we can all agree, embracing your age and living with a positive mindset adds so much to life. I am blessed to have a front row seat to this at Wellings.

Friends lifting each other up, and quick tour around the community on an electric bike, a song or two on the Karaoke machine and let’s not forget the baking! There’s always baking.

In what ways do you bring the sparkle to your day and those people who light you up?

Click here to read the article.

in Healthy Aging Posted by Natalie Tommy, VP Marketing, Nautical Lands Group of Companies & Wellings

03/17/202303/17/2023

Control The Inheritance You Leave To Your Heirs

This month, Marci Perreault, partner, KenMar Financial Services introduces us to a few reasons why establishing a trust could work for you. It’s enlightening and a quick snapshot into a few options available to you.

As always, it is important to discuss any questions you may have with your financial advisor.

Control The Inheritance You Leave To Your Heirs

If you were to imagine someone establishing a trust, you may picture an individual leaving their hilltop mansion and being driven by their chauffeur to stately law offices visited only by the rich and famous. In reality, a trust can be used by just about anyone to meet a variety of estate planning needs. One of the most common uses is controlling how an heir or heirs will receive their inheritance.

Trust basics

The person who establishes the trust is the settlor. The settlor appoints someone to manage the trust, called the trustee. This could be a friend, family member, professional or trust company. The beneficiary is the person who will ultimately receive income or capital according to the terms of the trust.

There are two basic types of trusts. An inter vivos trust, or living trust, takes effect during the settlor’s lifetime. A testamentary trust comes into effect upon the settlor’s passing. The following applications all use a testamentary trust.

Beneficiaries lacking financial expertise

It’s an uneasy feeling to leave a large lump sum of hard-earned money in a will to someone you suspect will spend it quickly and unwisely. A trust allows you to give explicit instructions to the trustee to control the inheritance, including the distribution amounts and frequency. A beneficiary may be trustworthy but require guidance in managing investments. By choosing a trustee with investment acumen, you can feel comfortable knowing the inheritance will be properly managed to meet income and growth needs.

Parent in a second marriage

If someone is in a second marriage and has children from their first marriage, estate planning can be a little different. Say the individual wants to provide for their current spouse but also wishes to leave an inheritance for the children from their first marriage. Several solutions are available, and one uses a spousal trust. The spouse would receive income from the trust, and possibly some capital, during their lifetime. When the spouse passes away, the trust assets would go to the children.

Caring for a child with special needs

Establishing a trust for a minor or adult child with special needs can help you be confident they’ll always be cared for in the best manner. A tax professional can advise you on how a trust can be set up without affecting government benefits.

A trust for minors

If you have beneficiaries who haven’t reached the age of majority, you can direct their inheritance to a trust. The trustee can manage the funds until each beneficiary reaches the age that you determine. At that point, a beneficiary can either receive a lump sum or periodic distributions according to the terms you establish.

Fulfill your personal preference

Trusts can be flexible. The terms and conditions you put in a trust are almost limitless and may primarily reflect your personal wishes. For example, a beneficiary may be financially reliable, but you might have their inheritance distributed periodically because you don’t want to chance a lump sum inheritance disrupting their work ethic. Or perhaps a settlor will make college or university graduation a condition of receiving their inheritance. A trust gives you the ability to help ensure the inheritance enhances a beneficiary’s life, rather than drastically changing it.

If you would like more information about trusts, contact us or talk with your lawyer or tax professional.

in Financial Freedom Posted by Marci Perreault

03/10/202305/03/2024

The Good Life: Getting Out of Your Comfort Zone; The Best is Yet to Come

Are you feeling stuck in your comfort zone?

In this video blog, Kat and Nat explore why it’s so hard to push out of our comfort zones and why it’s important to do so. They share their personal experiences and offer tips and tricks to help you take small steps toward growth and personal development. By embracing new experiences and challenging ourselves, we can expand our horizons, build confidence, and live life to the fullest.

So join us on this journey to break free from the confines of our comfort zones and unlock our true potential. Click here to watch the video.

in Healthy Aging, Video Blogs Posted by The Good Life With Kat & Nat

03/04/202305/03/2024

Get Out Of Your Comfort Zone; The Best Is Yet To Come

Human beings are creatures of comfort, aren’t we? We love it when our life circumstances feel comfortable, safe, and familiar. We’ve got a long list of reasons why we don’t want to give up what’s easy in exchange for what might be difficult even though science tells us that there’s great reward in that trade.

The comfort zone is a mental state where we feel safe, where we’re not being questioned. It’s life under a cozy blanket; we like it because nobody is challenging us, we avoid feeling anxious and life feels certain. Because it’s not enjoyable to feel uncertain or anxious, our mind tells us to stay put but what it doesn’t tell us is what we might be missing out on. Personal growth and having new experiences all require us to get uncomfortable before we can realize the reward.

The comfort zone is the great enemy of courage and confidence.
-Brian Tracy

Why is it so hard for us to get out of our comfort zone and why should we bother? It’s so hard for us mostly because fear of the unknown can be enough to have us procrastinate. Uncertainty and procrastination are the stepbrothers of fear. Terms like I can’t, I’ve never done that, I’m not good at that or I’m not sure are all expressions of fear and uncertainty. It’s our mindset convincing us to avoid challenge or discomfort. The second part of the question is why should we bother pushing out of our comfort zone? Even though new encounters can feel unsafe, pursuing different experiences helps us learn about ourselves and about life. We expand our horizons and reinforce that we can do hard things. Ultimately, embracing new experiences whether they work out for us or not helps expand our comfort zone in the long run.

I’m an introvert who has developed skills that allow me to meet new people, speak in front of audiences in person and on television. It has been such a great education and I have certainly benefited from stepping outside of my comfort zone. I was once a person who feared her own shadow and by taking many courageous steps, I developed a confidence that still surprises me some days. In the process of learning more about myself, I’ve learned that most of us are afraid and while I have great empathy, I also know the joy that lives on the other side of fear, and I know that courage is the superpower to take us through.

Getting to know more about ourselves our likes, and dislikes, learning about different lifestyles, cultures, expanding our knowledge base in areas of interest or new topics all provide fuel for conversation, open new opportunities for connection and friendship, help develop our character and teach us how to manage fear.

“Fear feeds all the negative qualities that make you feel bad about yourself: doubt, self-hatred, and despair. Faith feeds all the positive qualities that make you feel good about yourself: self-confidence, self-love, and hope. When you choose faith over fear, you create a positive destiny for yourself.”
–Darrin Donnelly

To switch out of our comfort zone we first must be willing to shift something. Notice I don’t use the word change here. No surprise that my brain doesn’t like change because just like you, I’m wired for safety. But if I say that I want to shift something, I can usually sneak under the radar and start implementing small alterations in my behaviour. Yes, micro shifts are where it’s at for me and I encourage you to resist getting overwhelmed by something new to you and take any small action. This way you’re demonstrating to yourself that growth is possible. This is a great place to start.

Get out of your comfort zone and bring comfort to others.
-Ravi Shankar

Do you have a list of things you’ve always wanted to do? If not, why not invest some time in creating that list because this activity signals to your brain that you’re interested in checking out some new experiences. Then select one thing on that list and research it by speaking with other people about it or exploring online. If you can, take one small step toward experiencing whatever that activity is even if it’s watching videos online about it. Our brain really doesn’t know the difference between a physical experience, a video experience, or an imagined experience. Enjoy playing around without pressuring yourself to do anything.

The road to success is always under construction.
-Lily Tomlin

Change your routine to get out of your comfort zone. Take an alternate route, order something new at your favourite eatery, try a different exercise. If you’re used to being alone, contact someone and ask them to meet for coffee. If you’re not used to writing notes, do that. If you’re not used to giving compliments, try it. If you’re not used to asking other people how they’re doing, do that. If you’ve never volunteered, why not give it a go? You have so much gold to offer this world and tending to your own personal growth creates a ripple effect. Your courage not only demonstrates what you’re capable of, which increases confidence; it also gives other people permission to stretch what’s possible for them. Let’s vow together to live without regret, to challenge any negative or limiting beliefs and to get out of our comfort zone so that we can live life fully, knowing that the best is yet to come.

This Wellings blog by Kathie Donovan was exclusively written for Wellings Communities and appeared first on MyWellings.com.

in Healthy Aging Posted by Kathie Donovan