Mistakes seniors make when moving in retirement

If you are looking for a great place to retire, be careful to avoid the following six common mistakes:

1. Jumping in too quickly
Budgeting for an extended vacation in the area you think you’d like to live is a good way to avoid making a big decision too quickly. That way you can take the time to really get to know the community you’re planning to join.

2. Assuming you’ll never get sick
Ensure you have access to the health and wellness services that you need. You may be healthy now, but it is important to plan for the future.

3. Neglecting to consider the climate
Understanding the typical weather patterns of your new home is very important, both for your health and your peace of mind.

4. Ignoring cost-of-living expenses
Making sure you have a good grasp on basic cost-of-living expenses, will help to ensure a smooth transition to your retirement destination.

5. Forgetting to check work opportunities
A lot of seniors need to do some part-time work after retirement. Either it is because they enjoy having a job or career, or they need enough money to pay for basic living expenses.

6. Overlooking family considerations
When thinking about relocating in retirement, it is critical that you have an honest discussion with your spouse or partner. It is very important that your partner is in line with what you’re doing.

Deciding to relocate is about much more than just picking a nice place to live in retirement. There are a variety of factors you need to consider.

Pinelands Grove Retirement Village is a vibrant, well-established senior community. Book your place today and enjoy the finer elements of life.

5 Misconceptions about Retired Life

A lot of people believe that everything will change for the better after they are retired. However, this is far from reality. Here are five misconceptions about retirement…

Retired Life is Less Stressful:
No hassle, no waking up early, no work, no boss, no worries, and no real tension. Life couldn’t get any better.

Reality:
Stress never leaves our lives. After retirement, only the things that cause stress change. Now, you may be worried about your health and your partner’s health, your family and money. Yes, you wojnt be worrying about work, but personal problems can make retired life more stressful.

Hobbies and Travel can be Taken up Easily:
You have plenty of time to go to all the places you ever dreamed of visiting, and enjoy a hobby which you have always wanted to try out.

Reality:
Yes, you have all the time in the world, which is now taken up by other duties and responsibilities. Some retired people have to take care of their grandchildren; some may have to look after elderly or ailing family members. Some may even have financial issues or health-related problems, which prevents them from traveling or enjoying their hobbies. So, most retirees actually travel less than what they used to before retirement.

Health Will Improve:
You will be able to adopt a healthy lifestyle, since you get more time to pamper yourself. You will be able to take good care of your body and mind by exercising.

Reality:
Often, aging and other health-related issues may come up, which prevents you from exercising. They may stop you from adopting healthy eating habits or lifestyle changes. More than half of retirees said that their eating habits remained the same, and about one-third said that they get less exercise than what they did before retirement.

Standard of Living Will Remain the Same:
Retirees plan and save for the future, so that they can continue and maintain their standard of living.

Reality:
The cost of things will increase in the future, as compared to what it is today. Healthcare and medical services need to be considered, as they are bound to affect your savings. If you have considered inflation and saved accordingly, then you are good to go!

You Still have Time for Retirement:
You still have time to retire, and you can start planning for retirement a few years down the line. It is your personal decision, and you can ready yourself for retirement.

Reality:
Inflation, layoffs, mergers, buyouts, or health concerns may force any individual to retire earlier than they planned. In this era of tough competition, it is better to be prepared in advance for unexpected situations like these. Planning in advance will help you stay afloat in times of crisis.

These were some misconceptions that surround the topic of retirement. Planning, preparing, and working hard to secure your future is the key, and is in your hands. Be ready to start a new phase of your life, because life begins at retirement!

Pinelands Grove Retirement Village is a well-established community for seniors, book your place today and enjoy the finer elements of life!

Depression after Retirement

Retirement can open many opportunities for happiness, but for some people it can bring great sadness. You need to learn how to cope and how to cure depression after retirement, so that you can finally enjoy your life!

Signs of Depression During Retirement

Before you learn to cope with the situation, you need to know what the signs are and how you can deal with it.

- Look out for signs such as, getting agitated, angry or irritated for no reason or for trivial issues. Sometimes depression can cause the individual to snap at an unsuspecting member of the family or friend.

- Being aloof, pessimistic, melancholic or not interacting with members of the house. These individuals will seem like they have lost all hope in their lives and have nothing to look forward to.

- Staying hidden in a private room, all alone, without wanting to be disturbed or interrupted by anyone.

- Complaining about small issues, without any due cause.

- Not interested in eating meals anymore, or overeating.

- Being restless and wanting to do something productive. This can be executed in two ways, first the individual seems restless and thus does a lot of work around the house. Doing more work than he or she ought to, feeling severe exhaustion and fatigue. Or that the individual is restless and still does not wish to do anything, and just wishes to be left alone.

- Guilt is an essential of depression, and is often very difficult to identify, unless mentioned in clear verbal means. Retirement can make people feel guilty of not being able to accomplish as much as they would like to have.

- People who remain upset and gloomy for prolonged periods find it hard to concentrate for tool long, and have difficulty remembering things. They often forget details, such as doing the laundry or getting the groceries from the market.

How to Prevent Depression After Retirement

- Take it as a new beginning

- Think of all the fun you can have!

- Join a community

- Stay active

- Make time for family

If you are still feeling depressed, it is completely alright to speak to a trusted few about how you feel. There is no shame in talking to professionals about your problems.

Pinelands Grove Retirement Village is a well-established senior community, where your dreams of a perfect retirement can come to life! Book your place today!

How seniors can start to exercise regularly

Everyone knows that regular physical activity helps older adults feel better, live longer and enjoy life more. Still, it’s hard for many seniors to find the motivation to exercise.

How important is physical activity for you?

What benefits are you looking for? Improved health? A better lifestyle? A longer life? Studies have proven that regular exercise gives you a 50 prevent lower risk of death. Physical activity also prevents diseases such as diabetes, obesity and osteoporosis. It improves lifestyle, mental health and the quality of life.

Get your physicians advice.

Ask for help in determining what type of physical activity will best suit your health and overall condition.

Choose activities that match your interests.

Do you love to walk around the mall and shop? Well, why not join or create a mall-walking group? Interested in making new friends? Look into joining a fitness class. Or maybe if you are a nature lover you could take a hike in a park nearby.

Start slowly and progress gradually.

If you have lived a sedentary lifestyle, begin by slowly adding little bits of exercise to your daily routine. Consider some form of exercise at small intervals of 5 or 10 minutes a few times a day instead of all at once. Set small, reachable goals and chart your progress.

Consider a buddy or group for support.

Research shows that people are more likely to stick with exercise routines if they make a commitment to others. Ask a friend to join your morning walks or dance classes. There are many options to group fitness activities.

Don’t get discouraged!

If you start a program then relapse into inactivity, don’t be too hard on yourself. Many successful people try more than once to succeed. Start again and reward yourself for your renewed motivation!

Enjoy the finer elements of life at Pinelands Grove Retirement Village, where wellness is encouraged and a varied range of services to residents is provided.

Inventions that may assist seniors and caregivers

People are constantly developing new products to assist seniors who have a variety of conditions. From those who have Alzheimer’s disease to those that are looking to track their daily exercise habits. 

Here are two innovative products which may become available in retirement communities in the future.

  §  The Parkinson's Cup
Lily Born was tired of watching her grandfather struggle with his drinking cup, as he had an advanced form of Parkinson's disease. Instead of watching her grandfather suffer in silence, Lily designed a cup that would allow the drinker to have full control of the liquid without having to worry about spilling or breaking. Lily created the cup, enlisting her father's assistance to develop a prototype, and funded the entire project on Kickstarter. Even more amazing? She was only 11 years old at the time!

Lily spoke to Co.Design about her "Kangaroo Cup," explaining that it was originally ceramic, but she switched to plastic after discovering the material was more stable. She added that her grandfather was an integral part of the design process.

They were using hand-mouldable plastic at home and then clay at a pottery studio. She was able to hand those cups right over to her grandpa to use, and it was very easy to see if it was comfortable or not.

The cups are currently available in sets of four, but Lily hopes they will become more widely adopted in the future.

  §  Shoe implant for seniors with Alzheimer's
Tracking technology has helped many caregivers and family members keep track of aging loved ones who have dementia or Alzheimer's and have wandered in the past.

Professor Andrew Carle from George Mason University and a shoemaker from GTX combined forces to develop a GPS insert for the shoes of seniors suffering from memory loss. Carle explained to the Washington Post that the new device may be helpful for caregivers, as the sole can easily be moved between multiple pairs of shoes.

However, the Alzheimer Society of Canada does recommend that caregivers carefully consider this option before adopting the device, as it may unnecessarily infringe upon a senior's independence.

Many of these revolutionary inventions are ideal for older adults and caregivers, as they may assist seniors in their daily lives!

At Pinelands Grove Retirement Village, your dream of a vibrant community establishment can become a reality! Book your place today and enjoy the finer elements of life.

Timing your Retirement – Are you ready?

Whether you wish to retire fully, or just cut back your working hours, it requires thinking about the emotional aspects of retirement as well as the financial.

Research reveals that the happiest ‘retirements’ are those with balance, structure, strong social contact and yes, a little work. You may also need expert advice from a financial planner on timing your retirement and to make the most of your money.

It is, however, important to remember that while money, (how much you have and how long it will last) plays a vital part in the timing of your retirement, your emotional readiness should hold equal weight. There are many factors to consider when deciding if you’re emotionally ready to retire, such as your relationships, support network, how you plan to keep yourself busy and what you hope to achieve from the next stage of your life.

How and when you make the decision also needs to be considered. Very few people simply wake up one morning and know the time is right. It’s often a gradual process that needs to be discussed and agreed with those closest to you and for whom your decision will also impact.

As well as the factors that you need to consider, there’s also the information you need to have. Will you get an Age Pension? Will your money last? What does retirement mean to you? And of course, what don’t you know?

Take a look at this simple “Are you ready to retire?” quiz, and highlight the areas that may need more consideration.

Are you ready to retire? Book your place at Pinelands Grove Retirement Village and make your dream of living in a vibrant community establishment a reality.

7 Retirement Lifestyles worth exploring

While some people are ready to relax after a stressful career, others are excited to try something different. Some people will try more than one lifestyle as they make time for leisure and then move on to engaging new activities.

You might want to consider trying these retirement lifestyles…

Beach – Retirement at the beach can make every day feel like a vacation. You could wake up every morning with a swim, go for walks, feel the sand between your toes and watch the sunset by the water each evening.

Golf Course – Picture yourself lining up the perfect putt on the green while smelling the freshly cut grass. Golf will get your out of the house and into the sunshine; it also offers opportunities to meet new people while getting some exercise. Pinelands Grove Retirement Village is conveniently located just around the corner from the Mowbray Golf Course; make sure to book your place today!

Stay at Home – Sleep in and don’t get up until you feel completely rested. Take your time chatting with neighbours, wandering around the neighbourhood and stopping at your favourite coffee shop for a snack. There is no need to rush, because you don’t need to be anywhere or accomplish your errands at a certain time. Savor the slow pace and enjoy life.

Second Career – Many people continue to work during the traditional retirement years, often because they need the money or simple enjoy working.  If you want more flexibility or leisure time, consider shifting into a part-time job or seasonal work.

Entrepreneur – Older workers who are tired of working for someone else are increasingly putting their skills to use in new ways by becoming entrepreneurs.

Dreamer – Many people deferred dreams of becoming a writer, artist or musician while they supported a family. Retirement can be a time to rediscover old passions or learn new ones. Consider signing up for music lessons or art class or make time to put your thoughts down on paper.

Gardner – Gardening is a common retirement activity that allows you to grow beautiful flowers or delicious things to eat. It has the double benefit of giving your lots of good exercise and lots of inexpensive food.

Retirement means something different for everyone. It might include relaxing days on the golf course for some, or retraining for a second career for others – what lifestyle do you want to explore?

Gracious living in an attractive location should not just be an aspiration, make your dreams become a reality at Pinelands Grove Retirement Village.

How to Discuss Aging Issues with your Kids

Rather than letting children drive decisions on housing, health care and estate plans, seniors may find it more empowering to be the ones leading the discussion. Here are five tips to help older parents be proactive and start the conversation with their children.

- Choose carefully which child or children to approach.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to discussing aging issues, every family dynamic is different, and so every one of these conversations will be different.

The first difference may be who is involved in the conversation. While some parents may find it makes sense to sit down with their entire family, others may find it easier to discuss issues with only one or two children.

- Select conversation topics beforehand.

Just as the conversation participants may differ from family to family, so too may the topics. 

However, this approach may not work for every senior. There are seniors who don’t want to involve their children.

In those cases, seniors may want to approach the conversation more broadly. Parents who aren’t comfortable sharing financial details with their children at least create a file with their documents and share where it can be found.

- Be prepared for possible objections or concerns.

Having a conversation with adult children about aging can also open the door for them to express their concerns. Before sitting down with the kids, seniors should anticipate possible objections and solutions.

For example, if driving may be an issue, seniors may want to consider whether voluntarily giving up driving at night or on busy roads would be an acceptable compromise. Those who want to stay in their homes, but are having trouble with upkeep, may want to discuss options to hire help for maintenance or housekeeping.

- Find a neutral time and location to have the discussion.

Emotions can sometimes run high during discussions of aging, and some seniors may find comfort in bringing in a third party for the discussion.

Some families find it easier to write a letter rather than have a face-to-face conversation. Others may prefer to have conversations individually with their children instead of calling a family meeting.

It may be difficult to have a productive conversation with adult children who are stressed or grieving. So seniors may want to avoid having a discussion during high-emotion times, such as at the height of the holiday season or immediately after a death. 

- Have a Plan B in case your children aren’t up for the challenge. 

Finally, realize not every adult child is mature and capable enough to process their parents’ aging. A lot of times children can be in denial about their parents’ physical state.

Adult children could also be irresponsible with the information shared with them or combative about their parents’ decisions. If your gut feels that the information isn’t going to be helpful, withhold that information. 

However, that doesn’t mean seniors should go it alone as they age. Parents can turn to a trusted financial advisor for assistance in developing a plan to manage their finances as they age. Meanwhile, some senior living communities, like Pinelands Grove Retirement Village, include many services and can be a good option for seniors who need help.”

While aging is not always an easy topic to discuss, it is encouraged that seniors to talk with their kids. You will feel a lot of relief knowing that was all taken care of and it will give you peace of mind.

Why it’s great to have a pet companion in your golden years

Getting older doesn’t mean you have to give up your beloved pets, but you do have to be smart about which furry friends to bring home.

Reasons to Consider a Pet

While some older people may be concerned about their ability to take care of a pet as they age, a four-legged friend can provide health benefits and a social outlet in retirement.

Health Benefits – The evidence supporting the benefits of pets isn’t all anecdotal in nature. A number of scientific studies have measured the positive impact pets can have on health and well-being. For example, Loyola University researchers found five to 15 minutes of animal therapy each day was associated with a 28 percent drop in the need for oral pain medication among patients recovering from joint-replacement surgery.

Social Benefits – Other seniors use their pets as means to promote social interaction. Some people have regular coffee dates with their pets in tow, while others head to local dog parks to chat with fellow pet owners.

Which Pets are Best?

For most seniors, a pet choice may come down to either a dog or a cat. For those who want a cat, the biggest consideration may be whether to get a short or longhair breed. Longhair cats may require regular brushing and could shed more than those with shorter hair.

Dogs are more complicated, and it is recommended that seniors stick with older animals. Puppies are really challenging, what most seniors need is a pet that is somewhat docile and has had some training.

Smaller dogs are recommended over big dogs, since they are more portable, cheaper to feed and may be more accepted in an assisted living facility should that become necessary.

It is also advised that seniors that are nearing retirement to take a wait-and-see attitude before jumping into pet ownership. You could decide to move closer to your kids. You could travel more, you really need to see where your life is going first.

For those seniors who are seeking animal companionship for the golden years, there are plenty of resources available to help find the perfect pet.

Pinelands Grove Retirement Village is the perfect senior community establishment for you! Make sure that your retirement dream becomes a reality - book your place today!

Five things you don’t know about retirement

Retirement means something different to everyone you may ask. But almost everyone focuses on the financial side of retirement, and not on the emotional changes we face during that time of our lives. So, what is retirement? That depends on who you ask.

Recent studies show that our general unpreparedness for retirement extends far beyond financial readiness.

Here are the 5 common themes of what we don’t know about retirement…

Keeping busy is harder than you would expect – Once your days are freed up from the grind of a job, it can be difficult to find fulfilling and affordable activities to keep you busy and motivated. Your challenge is to find a balance between downtime and activity – and you’ll have to do it frugally!

You have to expect the unexpected – You have been an adult long enough to realise that life is always changing, and this will prove even more true in retirement. Your retirement bliss may be much different than you imagined, so it’s important to have a financial cushion for these changes so you’re able to roll with the punches and still enjoy life.

You’re doing better than you thought – Sure, you’re not that guy on a sailboat in beautiful clear waters with the wind in his hair, but you’re probably just as well off as your neighbour, or you might be doing even better! Most retired couples can live comfortably on 50 to 60 per cent of what they earned when working.

You have more time than you think – Although retirement is sometimes seen as the dwindling twilight period of life, in fact it’s just another stage of life that will last longer than you anticipate. It is likely that you have a couple of decades to enjoy this phase of your life.

You have options – When you stop getting a regular pay cheque it can be a scary thing, but don’t panic. If you feel like you are financially ready for retirement, there are plenty of options. These days it not unusual for a retiree to find a whole new career after retirement, but if staying in the work force doesn’t appeal to you, there are other ways to pay your retirement fund, like downsizing your home.

That’s retirement nowadays and probably a whole lot of other things we haven’t even discovered yet.

Looking for gracious living in a beautiful community establishment? Pinelands Grove Retirement Village could be the perfect place for you! 

11 Tips for starting a business after retirement

Many people who are heading towards retirement today are thinking about work instead of looking forward to relaxing in their golden years. Some of the focus on punching the clock is necessity and some of it is a desire, but many also enjoy work and want to continue to use their skills.

Here are 11 tips for starting your own business in or near retirement:

- Determine whether your idea is really a good business plan. What problem does it solve?
Make sure you are completely honest with yourself about the business idea that you come up with. If your passion doesn’t seem to translate into a proper business, maybe it’s better to leave it as a hobby.

- Evaluate your skills.
Do you have the ability to do all the tasks necessary to make your business a complete success? It’s vital for you to be good at what you’re doing; you have to have the passion and the skills.

- Consider the time involved.
Most people don't want to work 80 hours a week, or even 40 hours a week, once they've reached retirement. You need to figure out a way to do it in a way that’s not time consuming.

- Get good advice.
Most cities have low-cost resources to help beginning entrepreneurs. You should also look for conferences and trade associations in your field.

- Figure out how to finance your startup.
If you need six figures to get your dream business off the ground, you may need funding or investors, which create additional layers of complication. Don't invest money you can't afford to lose.

- Know if you want to manage others or can handle the isolation of working alone.
Many people who start businesses in retirement don't want the burden of managing employees. On the other hand, if you're running a one-person business, you'll end up spending a lot of time by yourself, and not everyone likes that either. 

- Have an exit strategy.
If you start a business when you're 65, you may be ready to stop running it when you're 75. Have a plan, whether it is to leave the business to your children, sell it or just shut it down.

- Use your professional connections.
People who have been in the workforce for a long time know a lot of people. That gives you immediate access to potential customers as well as consultants who can help you get your business off the ground.

- Embrace technology.
If you're going to run a business, you may need to learn social media, online commerce, website management and other technical skills.

- Protect your assets.
Make sure your business structure protects your assets. The best way to do that will vary by state and by the size of the business. If your business goes down the tubes, you don't want to lose your savings as well.

- Don’t expect overnight success.
You may need to try several things and radically change your initial business plan before you find a formula that works. Let yourself experience new stuff and try new things.

For a retirement village that combines gracious living and an attractive location to provide you with a new standard of retired living in a vibrant community establishment. Visit Pinelands Grove Retirement Village, and make sure to book your spot.

How to get rid of the senior stereotyping

We all recognise those ‘older age’ stereotypes. We see them everywhere in the media and advertising: silly, forgetful older people unable to choose an insurance product or a healthy diet. What many people don’t realise is that these stereotypes can lead to serious discrimination!

In the jobs’ market, but also in shops and restaurants and other services, older people are ignored or treated poorly. Stereotypes distort reality by generalising what might be the case in just a few. 

The view that ‘all older people are forgetful’ is usually applied to everyone over 50. Because of this, perfectly capable people are denied jobs. Businesses and the economy are the losers, as well as the capable older people forced into poverty. 

Do all people over 65 have major health problems? 

Facts show that many in this age group are fit and active and contributing, and will remain so for years to come. This older age group also records higher levels of personal happiness. 

To tackle these stereotypes and discrimination, there needs to be evidence. A study was done on the stereotypes about older people:

- 59 per cent of people feel that seniors are more likely to be lonely or isolated
- 52 per cent feel that older people are more likely to be victims of crime
- 51 per cent feel older people are more likely to be forgetful
- 43 per cent feel older people don’t like being told what to do by someone younger.

Older people are vastly underrepresented in the media – people of age are barely featured in any advertising content, and when they are, they are shown as frail or weak, as victims, or in poor health.

So, what should happen?

The media should represent older people realistically, in all their diversity. Advertisers should aim at real older people, not imagined stereotyped versions of them.

The rest of us can challenge stereotypical remarks, start conversations about the contributions of older people, and point to the many older people who you know in jobs and volunteering. And think of yourself thirty years down the track – where would you like to be? 

Not everyone views seniors like this, for well-established community living in the beautiful suburb of Pinelands - book your place at Pinelands Grove Retirement Village!

Older adults need good nutrition

Just when you think that margarine is better for you than butter, you hear about something called trans-fatty acids. And what the heck are antioxidants?

It’s not surprising that people fins all the nutritional information in the media extremely confusing and hard to follow. However, you can make a difference in your health by using your common sense.

As people age, the quality of their diets are more important than ever. Good nutrition is vital for everything from healthy eyes to a strong immune system.

Here are some helpful tips to help seniors live healthier and still enjoy good food…

Think colour – The more colourful your diet, the more disease fighters you’re eating. Aim to eat at least three colours on your plate at every meal, and five total servings of fruit and vegetables each day.

Enjoy special foods you love (in moderation) – Bake your favourite pie, cake or cookies, eat a few for yourself and then give the rest away. Always measure out a small portion of the snack food or desert you want to eat, so you don’t overdo it.

Eat more fish – Just 2 ounces of fish a day can reduce the risk of heart attack by 60%. The fatty acids in fish also benefit people with hypertension, arthritis and diabetes.

Move meat out of the starring role – Focus mainly on building your meal around fruits, vegetables and whole grains like bulgur, whole grain rice and barley.

Make the best choices for fats and oils – Switch from stick margarine to a spread that is free from trans-fatty acids. Save butter for those special occasions and recipes.

Pay attention to calcium and Vitamin D – Older adults need 1,200 mg of calcium per day. Include in your daily diet orange juice and low-fat or dairy-free dairy products, you can even talk to your doctor about a calcium supplement.

Take a multivitamin-mineral supplement – Pick one that does not exceed 100 percent of the recommended daily allowance for any nutrient. Talk with your doctor to make sure you pick on that is appropriate for your needs.

Above all, remember to enjoy food – Healthy eating is flexible and may vary with your schedule, emotions, hunger level and overall health at any given time. Incorporate healthy habits over time, small and sustained changes are what matter in the long run.

Pinelands Grove Retirement Village is a vibrant senior community that will bring all your desires to life. Enjoy the finer elements of life at this well-established retirement village. 

Socially active seniors are less likely to become disabled

Many seniors have a fear of disability. Imagine not being able to feed or dress yourself, or get around on your own. Fortunately there are things you can do to significantly reduce your risk of disability.

Social Activity can help prevent physical disability
Staying physically active can help , of course, but a new study conducted at a medical centre shows that seniors who take part in a high level of social activity are about twice as likely to remain disability-free! This means that they will be able to do daily activities like feeding, bathing, dressing and walking around.

Socially active seniors are also about 1.5 times as likely to remain free of disabilities that affect instrumental activities, such as using the telephones, preparing meals and walking up and down flights of stairs.

At Pinelands Grove Retirement Village, our community establishment can cater for many different social activities.

What socially active means
To assess the effect of social activity on the development of disabilities, researchers studied the lives of nearly a thousand seniors with an average age of 82. They evaluated how often they went to restaurants or sporting events, played bingo, went on day trips or overnight trips and visited friends or relatives.

Social activity and healthy aging
Social activity has long been recognised as an important part of healthy living, but now there is strong evidence that it is related to better every day functioning and less disability in old age.

These findings are exciting because socially activity is potentially a risk factor that can be modified to help older adults avoid the burden of disability. So, stay healthy and stay socially active!

Winter Warming for Seniors

As the cold weather approaches, you will start to feel that winter chill. The windows may rattle and the cold breeze may come through your back door, even when it’s closed. These are signs of the chilly draft stealing your heat and making it harder to get warm!

It is important for older adults to prepare for the potential risks that cold weather can bring. For all the seniors out there experiencing winter right now, it may pose a number of risks. As winter creeps closer, there are much higher incidences of injury and illness due to icy or wet pavements, cold and dry air, flu viruses and in some rare cases, hypothermia.

Seniors should keep these tips in mind to help ensure safety and optimum health this winter:

- Older adults are more susceptible to hypothermia (even though it is rare), which occurs when too much heat escapes the body. It is important to dress very warmly and keep dry, but it is also important to remember good nutrition. Food provides the fuel we need to keep warm. Hot food and warm drinks, like soups and hot chocolate, are best to warm the body from the inside.

- When going outdoors, remember to dress warmly. Wear layered, loose-fitting clothing and gloves. When possible, wear a hat top protect heat loss. It’s a fact that close to half of all body heat is lost through the head.

- You can prevent winter hazards simply by planning ahead. Before winter gets here, check all your windows and doors for cracked or worn seals. In emergency cases, you can just staple a sheet of plastic tarp over a really old window.

- To avoid slips and falls, wear non-slip/skid boots or any other shoes that have plenty of traction. Also ensure that you wear warm, winter boots and thick socks to keep your feet from getting too cold.

- Cold weather can put a lot of extra strain on the heart. When doing winter chores, always do some warm-up exercises first and take many breaks.

- When you use a portable heater, plug the heater directly into an outlet – don’t use an extension cord! Make sure the outlet and the wiring are in good condition. Keep the area around the heater clear of any furniture, newspaper or any other flammable materials and take special care to avoid tripping over cords.

These simple tips will help seniors to be completely safe and healthy this winter. So, plug up those drafts, bundle up, and increase your chances of staying healthy!

At Pinelands Grove Retirement Village, we offer you healthy living and wellness in a safe, secure environment. A new way of living is created in this vibrant community establishment, where you can enjoy the finer elements of life! 

10 Things to do before you retire

As your retirement years creep closer, you may be wondering what you need to do to prepare. Here is a helpful list of things to prioritize if retirement is on your horizon.

1. Decide how you are going to spend your time. What are you going to do during the first six to 12 months in retirement? And what do you plan to do for the rest of your retired life?

2. Determine realistically how much money you will spend each month. Remember to include random expenses like birthday gifts, holidays, special outings and emergencies.

3. Anticipate the cost of health care. Once you retire you will have no employer to pay all this for you, it’s all up to you.

4. Buy long-term care insurance. Now!

5. Refinance your mortgage. Many people are surprised to find out that they either cannot borrow money after they retire, or they are forced to pay higher rates.

6. Boost your cash reserves. Always try to make sure that your rainy day fund is enough to cover at least six months’ worth of expenses.

7. Evaluate your sources of income. You have already figured out what you’ll spend on a monthly basis, now figure out where that money will come from.

8. Revise your investment strategy. The way you have dealt with your investments over the last 30 years is not how you should handle them for the next 30. When you prepare for retirement you should be focused on asset accumulation, but when you’re in retirement you need to focus on income and on keeping up with the increased cost of living.

9. Review your estate plan. If you don’t have your will and trust – get them! These documents can protect you and your assets while you are alive and benefit your spouse and children when you pass on.

10. Perhaps the most important thing of all. If you are not excited to retire, then don’t. Many people quickly become very bored after retiring. It’s okay to return to school or work. Many people choose to do this.

Some of the things you should prioritize before retirement, you may have already started or completed, and others you may not have yet given any consideration. So make sure to do these ten things before you decide to retire.

At Pinelands Grove Retirement Village, we can provide you with the perfect senior community establishment you desire where you can enjoy the finer elements of life.

5 ways you will save money after retirement

There are many expenses that will be reduced after retirement. Some work-related costs retire along with the job, while others can be eliminated once you are no longer supporting a family.

Here’s how you will spend less after retirement…

Housing – Housing is the biggest monthly expense for most working households, but this can all change in retirement. If you have been diligent about paying your mortgage, you could pay off the loan before retirement. This will reduce the monthly cost of housing greatly, but that’s not the only way to spend less.After retirement you won’t be tied down to a location near your work anymore, and the possibilities are endless! You can sell your house and move into an affordable retirement village like Pinelands Grove Retirement Village.

Transportation – One thing you definitely won’t miss about work is the commute. The average daily commute is almost an hour. When you are retired, you won’t have to get frustrated at rush hour anymore, plus you will save on petrol and car insurance. If you retire and find yourself living in a location with reliable public transportation, then getting rid of your car is a realistic option.

Kids – You would be surprised how much it costs each year to raise a child for 18 years – it’s a lot! And that’s not even including higher education. These costs include a larger home, child care, sports equipment, after school activities, health care, clothing, transportation and the huge amount of food they consume. Hopefully, by the time you retire, the kids will all be out of the house!

Work-related expenses – It can cost quite a bit of money to keep a professional appearance. Professional clothes and shoes are expensive, and once you’re retired you won’t even need to wear them anymore. Coffee and espresso shots can help you stay focused at work but they can also drain your wallet. These expenses might not seem like a lot, but they can add up each year.

Conveniences – Employees with a full-time job don’t have much extra time, so they value conveniences and are willing to pay for them. Luckily, retirement is a completely different story. You have a lot more free time and less income, so you have to prioritize things differently.

As you adjust to your retirement lifestyle, you will find that there are certain expenses you are able to save on. The bulk of these expenses are necessary during your working years, but retirees can reduce or eliminate these costs, freeing up time and money for something else.

At Pinelands Grove Retirement Village we can offer you gracious living in an attractive location. Here you can come to enjoy the finer things in life!

Why Seniors Should Embrace Technology

These days’ seniors are living longer and fuller lives. One reason for this is all the new and latest technology that keeps coming out. Through the introduction of tablets, eReaders and smartphones, seniors should let technology into their lives, now more than ever!

Here are 5 reasons seniors should embrace technology…

1. Helps you Stay Connected
Those who use the internet and communicate through email or social media are less likely to feel isolated or lonely, especially seniors. It can also improve self-esteem as seniors feel they have a support system nearby no matter how far they may be from their family and friends.

2. Boosts your Brain
Learning a new piece of technology is a great exercise for your brain. Typing, searching the internet, or even just learning how to operate something like a smartphone or tablet forces your brain to work in a new way. Continuing to learn as we age is extremely important to strengthen our memory and maintain mental sharpness.

3. Improves your Mood
Because technology makes it so easy to stay in touch with family and friends, it also has the power to reduce feelings of depression and improve self-confidence. Whether surfing the internet to explore new places, viewing photos of loved ones on Facebook, or downloading a new book to read on a tablet or eReader, technology allows us to escape to another world for a moment – reducing anxiety and tension.

4. Stimulates Creativity
There are a number of games and puzzles that can easily be played on a computer or a tablet. And while these are usually praised for their ability to boost our minds, they can also boost creativity. Technology also makes it easier for seniors to tap into their creative side through writing, drawing or even painting electronically.

5. Provides Entertainment
Essentially every movie, television show and book can be downloaded online. For seniors this can mean watching their favourite programming whenever they want. There are also a number of multi-player games and apps that seniors can take advantage of, allowing them to be entertained and remain social.

Technology has the potential to open up a whole new world for seniors. It can also help seniors with day to day activities. There are a lot of apps, like calendar apps that will remind you of important appointments, or medication reminder apps that ensure you’re taking the right medication at the right time. 

At Pinelands Grove Retirement Village, we are here to help you embrace any lifestyle you choose. Remember that units are going fast at our Retirement Village, so book your place now!

7 Secrets to a Happy Retirement

Some people move effortlessly into a happy retirement and get right to the business of enjoying their new lives. But, other folks have a much tougher time entering the retirement years. Some of these people may think to themselves, “Am I really cut out for retirement at all?” Well, here are seven traits all happy retirees have…

> Good Health <

Having good health is probably the most important thing that impacts retirement happiness. According to a study, retirees in poor health are nearly 50% less likely to report being happy.

> A Significant Other <

Married or retirees who have a significant other are more likely than singles to be extremely happy in retirement. And it gets even better when your partner is retired with you, because you get to enjoy retirement together.

> A Social Network <

Having friends is far more important to retirement bliss than having kids. Those who have a strong social network are found to be 30% happier with their lives.

> They are not Addicted to TV <

After you retire you are going to have lots of free time to fill. If you want to be happy in retirement, don’t fill all that time with endless hours of television. A direct negative correlation was found between the amount of TV watching and happiness levels: unhappy people watched more and happy people watched less.

> Intellectual Curiosity <

People in retirement who are over the age of 70 and who choose brain-stimulating hobbies instead of watching TV are less likely to suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. Not only will shunning TV make you a whole lot happier, but it will make you healthier too.

> They aren't Addicted to Achievement <

The more you are defined by your job, the harder it will be to adjust to life without it. People who are achievement addicts have the most difficulty transitioning to retirement.

 > Enough Money <

Of course you’ll need enough money to support your chosen lifestyle in retirement. But beyond that, more money will never make you happier. If you have just enough money to continue your pre-retirement lifestyle, then you have enough!

If you don’t have all the traits necessary for a happy retirement, don’t worry, there’s good news for you! All you have to do is put a little work into it. At Pinelands Grove Retirement Village, we can help you on your journey to a happy, healthy retirement. 

How to stay healthy after retirement

Once you have hit retirement, it can be appealing to just spend your days relaxing and doing what you love. It is important to prioritize your favourite hobbies, but it is also important to prioritize your health. As you age, your immune system changes, which means your immune system doesn’t work as well as it used too. You are more likely to get sick, healing also slows down and immune systems can’t detect and fix cell defects as easily.

The good thing is you can still take steps to stay as healthy possible…

EXERCISE

Exercise is very important at any age, but it is especially important when you get older. Regular exercise can help you prevent health problems and keep your bones strong too. Many people also say that exercising regularly boosts their mood. If you really don’t like exercising, you should get a friend to join you so they can keep you motivated. If you are new to working out, you should always talk to your doctor first.

LIMIT YOUR ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

Drinking alcohol regularly can affect all areas of your body, like your brains, heart, immune system and of course your liver. Yes, drinking in moderation is fine, but you shouldn’t drink large amounts of alcohol as you get older. If you are female, limit yourself to one drink each day or two drinks if you are male. If you have ever been a heavy drinker, you may want to limit yourself even more – consult your doctor to be sure.

EAT WELL

Nutrition is an important part of any healthy lifestyle, but it must be a regular part of your routine as you age. Eating well helps you to feel good and encourages a strong immune system. Always be especially careful to limit empty calories like sodium, cholesterol, sugar and refined grains. Also limit how much trans and saturated fats you eat. Becoming someone who eats healthy all the time can be difficult if you have never eaten healthy before, so try and eat whole grains, fruits and vegetables and lean protein.

BE A GOOD PATIENT

Always go to your regular annual appointments with your doctor and don’t be afraid to call and book ahead of time if you have any health concerns. Don’t ever leave it until the last minute if you are worried there might be a problem that will only allow it to get worse. Have you cholesterol checked regularly and watch out for signs of cancer as well, also make sure that you have insurance that will pay for any serious medical issues that come up.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR MENTAL STATE

Your mental well-being is also something that you need to take care of. Retirement can be a wonderful time for you, but it can also be a very lonely time if you don’t have a good support group around you. Be sure to make time to see and contact friends and family and join in on activities that you enjoy.

Yes, it may seem like a lot of steps to take to stay healthy, but all of them are completely manageable and for the good of your future after retirement. 

Pinelands Grove Retirement Village can help you on the road to a better lifestyle with our amazing health care facility, residential exercise area and our healthy lifestyle.

3 tips for helping a loved one adjust to retirement living

Moving to a senior community allows older adults to be able to live amongst their friends, peers and people around the same age. It also provides a welcoming environment in which seniors can stay safe, active and social. The change to retirement living allows seniors to become part of a larger community. Here are some ways caregivers and children can make the adjustment easy and fun for everyone involved.

1. Help set up their new space
When moving into a retirement community, make sure not to forget to bring along plenty of pictures, mementos and trinkets to put on the walls and surfaces. This room will be your loved ones new home, so it should make them feel comfortable and happy. Try to bring along items that will remind them of their family and loved ones, like drawings done by grandchildren or family portraits. Once they have settled in, take them shopping and pick out a few items to decorate their new living space with. Don’t forget to bring along some fun board games and electronics.

2. Encourage them to get involved
Joining a senior community is just about one of the most exciting things an older adult can do! Seniors have the opportunity to get involved in life enrichment programs that will help them get more comfortable in their new home and also become more social with fellow residents. There are many activities to get involved in, like exercise, shopping and other social events. By encouraging your loved one to become involved in their new home is essential, especially since

3. Always stay in touch
It’s so important to stay in contact with your loved one, especially when they first move to the residence. Visit often, voice call and message them on social media sites. Be sure to ask them all about their new home and how they are enjoying it so far and don’t forget to show interest in events they have been part of, the friends they have made and the activities they enjoy. In return, make sure to keep them updated about your life, showing pictures and telling stories – it will be greatly appreciated.

It can be tough for seniors to move to a retirement community, not to mention it’s also very difficult to adjust. Ensure that you use these tips and make the change as positive as possible. 

If you are considering if Pinelands Grove Retirement Village is the right place for you or your loved one, contact us today. We offer a fresh approach to your retirement and attention to detail is our promise to you!

Some lessons the younger generation can learn from seniors

For many people, retirement is the time to reflect on what truly makes you happy. Because seniors have decades of experience, they can offer great insight and advice into what’s most important in life.

So, here’s what the older generation would say to the younger generation if they could tell them only one thing…

*Follow your Dreams*
One of the most important lessons to remember is to always follow your dreams. Living life with regrets only creates unhappiness, and it can cause people to feel as if they have missed out on an opportunity. It is important to take advantage of all opportunities so you can find peace and live the life that you've always dreamed for yourself.

*Find your Truth*
Staying completely true to yourself is another important piece of advice that seniors have for younger generations. There was a statement made by seniors in Time magazine that said… “Do not hesitate to switch interests, majors or fields of concentration. Find your preference of your passion, then focus on it to your heart’s content.”

*Be open to Change*
Flexibility is extremely important if you want to live a happy, healthy life. Life is a huge mix of good days and bad days, and the key to staying happy is knowing that it can all change in a second. Always remember that some days it will rain and pour, but it’s pointless to worry about it.

*Care for Others*
While it’s important to focus on your own happiness, it’s also valuable to spread joy and happiness to others. In fact, there are reports that show that volunteering is not only good for the community, but also great for your own well-being. Give back to your loved ones and neighbours by volunteering at a retirement home or hospital – you get more love when you give back.

"The best currency that you can spend very freely and get much more than you pay for is love, spend it!"

Book your place today at Pinelands Grove Retirement Village, we have a distinctive, vibrant community of adults and we promise to provide healthy living and wellness in a safe, secure environment.

3 Advantages of Retirement Living

Imagine if you never have to worry about preparing a meal again? Think about what it would be like to have plenty of exercise classes and recreational activities available to you every day during your retirement. If you become a resident at Pinelands Grove Retirement Village, that desire will become a reality.

At a retirement village, you can shift your focus from performing tasks of daily living or managing health or mobility challenges to simple enjoying everything that retirement living has to offer…

-> Healthy, Delicious Meals
Cooking three meals a day and trying to make sure they are healthy can be quite labourious, especially the grocery shopping and meal preparation beforehand. After spending many years sharing this responsibility with a spouse or relative, it can be a huge relief to have someone else take care of it for a change!

-> Physical and Social Activities
It can be quite difficult to find interesting activities close to home that are also inclusive of seniors with mobility challenges. Transportation to and from these activities can also be expensive and cause an inconvenience. At Pinelands Grove Retirement Village, those issues done exist!

-> Secure and Supportive Environment
Security can be a huge concern for seniors who feel uneasy about being home alone, especially if they’re unsteady on their feet or require extra support to complete everyday tasks. At a retirement community, you know that you are surrounded by peers and dedicated staff members who can offer you assistance or just companionship whenever it is needed.

If you are considering whether retirement living is right for you, simply read through these three advantages and you will find that Pinelands Grove Retirement Village is the right choice for you.