You may have certain criteria as you search for retirement communities that fit your lifestyle. One of those items could be having plenty of opportunities to continue to learn and engage. Not only would you want these opportunities as part of independent living, but for all levels of care if you should ever need it.
While scientists continue to search for a cure for brain-degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s Disease, numerous studies have revealed lifestyle changes that have been shown to preserve cognitive abilities. Let’s explore the brain-healthy lifestyle.
Topics: Wellness
108 years. Yes, 108 years!
Until 2016, it had been 108 years since the Cubbies had won the World Series...although we brought home the National League pennant in 1945. In 2016, the Chicago Cubs once again became world champions when they won the 112th World Series.
Spring breezes remind us it’s time to air out our fusty residences and let the fresh air in.
All too often, though, our penchant for spring cleaning exposes us to toxins from cleaning products. Here are some homemade cleaning products sure to do the job!
Growing older can provide a huge hit to your ego. Many older people feel invisible, especially women who are accustomed to being treated well because of their looks. You may no longer be working, which is where many people, especially men, derive their identity.
An Oregon State University study found that healthy individuals who retired early were 11% more likely to die than people who retired one year past 65. The theory is that they lost their identity and their sense of purpose.
We always thought when the children had left to pursue their own lives, our own lives would become simpler. We’d have time to learn to play the guitar. We’d make time to read—or write—the Great American Novel. We’d take long walks along the lake, enjoying the cries of the seagulls and the wash of the waves. We’d meditate every morning.
Everyone loves music. Instinctively, we recognize its influence on us.
When you listen to music, a part of your brain called the nucleus accumbens triggers the release of dopamine, sometimes called the happiness chemical.
We take good posture for granted. We also notice poor posture. In Western culture, poor posture is a sign of sloth and low self-esteem.
Posture is important in other ways, because bad posture can lead to injury and chronic back pain.
Therapeutic massage is becoming more and more popular. As Baby Boomers grow older, we are adopting it in greater numbers.
Should I stay or should I go?
—The Clash
That’s the question asked by empty-nesters as you plan your future.
Your family home has memories and good neighbors. If you’re like many people who are planning for retirement or already retired, it probably also has empty rooms. And, for many parents, it probably also contains debris from your past you haven’t examined since you carefully—or hurriedly—stored it away.
Everyone needs pampering sometime. Taking time for yourself relieves stress and makes you more productive.
And Chicago offers a wealth of ways to pamper yourself—massage, mani/pedis, facials, and more.
Topics: Chicago Living
