By Amy Hilliard
September is Self-Improvement Month, a time designated to set goals that help put us on the path to becoming a better version of ourselves. It’s not about pointing out our flaws, rather an opportunity to look inward and discover how we can improve in all aspects of our lives including physically, mentally and emotionally.
Physically
Get Moving: The National Institutes for Health (NIH) advises everyone to include physical fitness in their daily routine. This is true, regardless of age. Even older adults with chronic pain and health conditions can incorporate exercise into their lives. Aqua aerobics, for example, is ideal for those with arthritis while stretching has been found to be beneficial for people affected by Parkinson’s disease.
Eat Right: A well-balanced diet can have a tremendous impact on our bodies. Eating leafy greens, colorful vegetables and fresh fruits can protect the human body against diseases such as diabetes and obesity. A study by the NIH also found that the consumption of carotenoid-rich fruit and vegetables positively affects skin color, which influences perceptions of health and attractiveness.
Sleep Well: Lack of adequate sleep has been linked to increased risks for chronic health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. It can also affect safety and longevity. Though there is no one-size fits all recommendation as to the required amount of sleep one needs, experts recommend listening to our bodies.
Mentally
Learn Something New: From local colleges to the Collier County Public Library, there is a wealth of opportunities to expand the mind and boost brain power. For example, The Carlisle Naples, an active retirement community, offers numerous educational programs and extends an invitation for the public to attend. Last month, a presentation entitled “The Power of Color: Meaning and Symbolism” unlocked the hidden meanings and subliminal message behind some of history’s most famous works of art. The event was sponsored by Hodges University Center for Lifelong Learning.
Be Grateful: According to research, people who practice gratitude as part of their daily life take better care of themselves and engage in healthier lifestyles than their not-so thankful counterparts. Grateful people also tend to more optimistic, which has been shown to boost one’s immune system.
Give Back: Volunteering not only benefits others but it can offer a host of benefits to the person giving of his or her time. Volunteers derive a tremendous sense of purpose and self-satisfaction from their work, keys to warding off depression.
Emotionally
Reduce Your Stress: Unmanaged stress can impact one’s quality of life. For many older adults, the upkeep of a family home can become overwhelming—from scheduling repairs to coordinating their schedules to be at home while work is performed. With interior and exterior maintenance included in The Carlisle Naples’ monthly fee, residents are relived they no longer have this responsibility and relish the new found freedom to spend each day as they wish.
Make Connections: Despite the popularity of social media, it’s important for people to have meaningful, face-to-face connections. In fact, a U.K. study found that social support and social interaction are keys to predicting both physical and mental health for everyone including children and older adults. Reduced anxiety and depression are just a few of the many benefits of being with others.
Be Present in the Moment: Mindfulness means maintaining awareness of our thoughts, feelings, and surrounding environment. It’s been linked to numerous health benefits including boosting the immune system’s ability to fight off illness.
“The Carlisle Naples offers the perfect environment for residents to lead fully active and engaged lives,” said Executive Director Frank White. “Our community has all the tools and resources needed to enhance one’s life while providing peace of mind for the future.”
Located at 6945 Carlisle Court in Naples, The Carlisle offers spacious one-and two-bedroom residences include interior and exterior maintenance, 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.
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 Amy Hilliard at 239-221-0017.
Luxury Rental Retirement Living
6945 Carlisle Court, Naples, FL 34109
239-221-0017 . www.srgseniorliving.com