Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
By Greg Pascucci
The National Institutes of Health reports that being physically active on a regular basis is one of the healthiest things we can do for ourselves. Studies have also shown older adults can gain a lot by staying physically active. Even moderate exercise and physical activity can improve the health of people who are frail.
Older adults seeking a low-impact fitness regimen which offers a wealth of benefits need only head to a nearby pool. For residents at The Carlisle, a luxury active retirement community in North Naples, the onsite pool serves not only as a gathering spot for special events and parties but a place to proactively take charge of their health.
Eighty nine year old Jane Anderson attends the community’s advanced water aerobics class weekly and says it’s been a key component in helping her maintain her independence.
“According to doctors, it’s the best kind of exercise,” she said. “I love the pool! The exercise class continues to be a rewarding experience for me.”
Originally from Connecticut, Mrs. Anderson was a “snowbird” who lived in Naples during the winter with her late-husband. The pair eventually relocated to Naples fulltime in 2006.
Mrs. Anderson moved to The Carlisle from Pelican Marsh 4 ½ years ago after she had a stroke. Thankfully, it had no lasting impact on her overall health but her daughter felt it was best she no longer live alone.
“My daughter came down from Massachusetts and was given the names of senior communities in the area. The Carlisle was at the top of the list and I told her ‘just go there’,” explained the former architectural designer. “I’d visited The Carlisle for a concert and I was very impressed. It’s beautiful and I remember thinking, ‘This isn’t a nursing home; it’s a resort!’”
Water exercises can be especially beneficial for stroke survivors. It’s been shown to improve balance and since water is low-impact, it is joint-friendly and helps increase flexibility and range of motion.
The class also offers emotional and mental health benefits for Mrs. Anderson. She is quite fond of the other participants and socializes with them often – outside the pool. Research shows these social connections keep seniors healthy and engaged.
“I really enjoy the camaraderie of the group,” she said. “I have great friends at The Carlisle and frequently join them for dinner.”
In addition to great friends, she’s also met her husband at the award-winning community.
“After about six months at The Carlisle, a nice man moved in next door,” said Mrs. Anderson. “Roy and I dated and eventually got married in Massachusetts 3 ½ years ago. I was 85 years old!”
The couple is involved in numerous activities at the community including serving on the Welcome Committee, helping their newest neighbors get acclimated to life at the senior living community.
Benefits of Water Exercise for Older Adults
• Reduces fall risks
• Builds endurance
• Decreases anxiety
• Alleviates pressure on joints and is ideal for
those with arthritis
• Lowers blood pressure
• Helps with weight loss/maintenance
• Improves cardiovascular strength
“Change can be hard,” she said. “But this is an active community where you can have as much help as you need. For me, everything I could ever want is here…activities, entertainment and more. I’m even taking a Spanish class.”
Located at 6945 Carlisle Court in Naples, The Carlisle offers spacious one-and two-bedroom residences, weekly housekeeping and flat linen services, basic cable TV, all utilities except telephone, and a complimentary full breakfast plus choice of lunch or dinner in the community’s gourmet-style restaurant. For more information about the community, please call 239-221-0017 or visit www.TheCarlisleNaples.com.
The Carlisle, a luxury, resort-style senior living community in North Naples, offers both Independent and Assisted Living lifestyles. Available on a monthly fee basis, the ECC-licensed and CARF-accredited community boasts a full range of services and amenities including 12-hour restaurant dining, housekeeping, transportation and activities. Located on Airport-Pulling Road, between Pine Ridge and Immokalee Roads, the award-winning community’s lush tropical environment is highlighted with meandering walking paths around three lakes and tranquility gardens. For more information or to schedule a tour, please call Director of Marketing, Greg Pascucci at 239-221-0017.
Luxury Rental Retirement Living
6945 Carlisle Court, Naples, FL 34109
239-221-0017 . www.srgseniorliving.com