Looking for ideas for spending quality time with mom? At The Doliver of Tanglewood, our community members have discovered some of the best Houston spots to Live Life Well. When it comes to spending time with your loved one, try one of these spots!

Our Resident Picks for Where to Take Mom near Richmond

Whether you’re exploring art or relaxing with a refreshing tea, Houston has endless ways to spend time with mom in style. Need even more of a reason to spend time 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 The Doliver of Tanglewood with your family. Interested in learning about social connection and fun activities available every day at The Doliver of Tanglewood in Houston, Texas? Contact us to schedule a tour!

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

What exactly defines these 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.

Despite the dispersion of blue zone communities, Buettner and his team discovered nine shared characteristics among these populations that contribute to Living Life Well.

Curious about their lifestyle? 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 The Doliver of Tanglewood.

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

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, possessing a sense of purpose is worth an additional 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 The Doliver of Tanglewood, 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 The Doliver of Tanglewood.

Connect

  1. “Positive Pack” – Establishing a supportive social circle can reinforce healthy behaviors that enable you to Live Life Well. The Doliver of Tanglewood cultivates 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 The Doliver of Tanglewood, 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 The Doliver of Tanglewood inspired by this remarkable island.

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

Spring’s arrival offers numerous avenues to Live Life Well, notably through extended daylight hours. The sun’s influence on our bodies is demonstrably significant.

The Science of Sunlight’s Effects

Vitamin D:

Perhaps its most recognized asset, sunlight initiates Vitamin D formation within the skin. This vital vitamin facilitates calcium absorption, crucial for maintaining bone strength and preventing osteoporosis. As individuals age, their capacity to produce Vitamin D diminishes, amplifying the importance of sun exposure. The Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation reports approximately 54 million Americans have osteoporosis and low bone mass, emphasizing Vitamin D intake’s relevance.

Mood Elevation

Sunlight boosts serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and promotes feelings of happiness and well-being. This can prove especially beneficial for older adults susceptible to seasonal affective disorder, depression, or related emotional challenges.

Sleep Pattern Enhancement:

Sunlight helps regulate our circadian rhythm, the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Daytime sunlight exposure can optimize nighttime sleep quality. This is particularly essential for seniors, whose sleep habits may shift with age.

Immune System Support:

Sunlight is instrumental in reinforcing immune defenses. While Vitamin D’s role in immune support is well-established, research from Georgetown University Medical Center also reveals that sunlight, via a mechanism distinct from vitamin D production, energizes T cells, which are pivotal for immunity. Maintaining a resilient immune system is crucial for seniors to resist illness and sustain overall health.

Cognitive Advantages:

The National Institute of Health suggests that Vitamin D can reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Adequate sun exposure, and therefore sufficient vitamin D, may aid in preserving mental sharpness.

Enjoying Sunlight at The Doliver of Tanglewood

At The Doliver of Tanglewood, we prioritize designing spaces that optimize natural illumination. Our residences feature extensive windows and thoughtfully arranged communal areas that facilitate enjoying the sun’s warmth and scenic vistas.

Our beautifully landscaped outdoor areas and activities encourage walks with neighbors, outdoor social gatherings, or relaxing with a book while soaking up the sun. Furthermore, we organize excursions to local Houston parks and scenic off-campus locales.

Safe Sun Exposure Guidelines

While sunlight’s advantages are substantial, adhering to safe sun exposure practices is vital. We recommend:

Enhancing Well-Being: Utilizing Sunlight’s Benefits

At The Doliver of Tanglewood, we are dedicated to providing a lifestyle that promotes comprehensive well-being. By harnessing the simple yet potent advantages of sunlight, you can elevate your physical, mental, and emotional health. We invite you to experience the warmth of our community, where each day presents an opportunity to Live Life Well.

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