For many, coffee has been the drink that starts every day. While it might seem like an unremarkable part of a daily routine, a “cup of joe” can actually help us Live Life Well. Grab a fresh cup of coffee and read on to learn about the hidden power of coffee. Plus, discover where to get the best coffee in the Houston area. 

At the Village of Meyerland, a good cup of coffee is just the beginning of a vibrant morning. By reducing the risk of some diseases and improving mental health, this morning beverage is a great way to Live Life Well. Many of our residents awaken their minds with morning routines that include group crosswords, discussions about current events, or book club. These activities over a fresh brew set the tone for a good day.

Hidden Health Benefits of Coffee 

Age Healthier and Live Longer 

A recent study on the caffeine consumption habits of more than 40,000 women showed that regular cups of coffee could help you live longer. Through beneficial effects on the biological processes of aging, moderate intake can enhance longevity. 

Support Cognitive Health 

Data has also shown that two or three cups of unsweetened coffee per day slows cognitive decline, which may reduce the risk of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. 

Decrease Cardiovascular Risks  

Daily coffee could keep your heart beating longer and stronger. Regular consumers showed a 19% lower risk of heart failure.  

Reduced Risk of Type 2 Diabetes 

Why not have another cup? Research has shown that each additional cup of coffee decreases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by 7%, compared to those who don’t drink coffee.  

Boost Your Mood 

By releasing neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, caffeine won’t just keep you going – it can improve your mood. You might feel even better when you share that cup with a friend.  

Find the Best Coffee in Houston

Whether looking for seasonal lattes or just a strong, dark pour, there’s no shortage of quality coffee shops near Village of Meyerland. Here are three local favorites worth checking out: 

1. Coffee Trend 

4042 S Braeswood Blvd, Houston, TX 77025

Located along the Braes Bayou bike trail, this relaxed cafe with a dog-friendly patio serves high-quality coffee from around the world. 

2. La Tazza Specialty Coffee 

8427 Stella Link Rd, Suite B, Houston, TX 77025

Known for expertly crafted espresso, this cozy cafe is on a mission to help everyone drink better coffee. 

3. Leaven Bakery & Cafe

4191 Bellaire Blvd Ste 125, Houston, TX 77025

In addition to great coffee, Leven serves wholesome food from scratch to help make your day easier and more delicious.

Don’t forget to savor your sip and the moments that accompany it. Schedule a tour at Village of the Heights today.

Assisted Living means having the support to live life to the fullest. At the Village of Meyerland, we encourage residents and families to Live Life Well through meaningful moments, including outings to Houston parks and walking trails. This Father’s Day, consider getting outside and exploring the natural beauty of our local area together!

Great Parks & Trails to Explore with Dad Near near Houston, Texas

• Memorial Park- This is a great spot with hiking trails for all levels. Beyond exercise, the park features the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center, numerous picnic spots and scenic water features of the Clay Family Eastern Glades.
• Nature Discovery Center at Russ Pitman Park– Our residents love being so close to this charming and accessible escape into natural habitats. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a shorter walk that still takes you through diverse ecosystems, including prairies, woodlands, wetlands, and more. Plus, if you’re looking to learn, they offer engaging educational exhibits and programs.
• Buffalo Bayou Park– Buffalo Bayou Park offers an easy, paved trail with scenic city skylines along the historic bayou. Keep an eye out for public art installations and consider a unique experience like a tour of the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern.

The Benefits of Walking 

Incorporating gentle exercise like walking into the routine offers significant advantages for healthy aging. This study shows that people who walk four times weekly for just 15 minutes can live longer and healthier lives compared to those who are more sedentary. Here are some of the key health benefits:

• Strengthens muscles and bones to prevent falls and improve balance
• Improves cardiovascular health for a healthy heart
• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Sunlight and fresh air enhances mood
• Increases flexibility and endurance

Live Life Well by walking more with family and friends! When it’s more convenient to stay close to home, our campus offers beautiful spaces to stroll through!Interested in learning about the many fun opportunities for low-impact exercise, social connection, and family events at Village of Meyerland? Schedule a tour.

What if the key to a longer life was simpler than you believe? Stretching from the sun-kissed hills of Sardinia to the tranquil coasts of Okinawa, there are five unique global regions—identified as the Blue Zones—where individuals not only achieve greater longevity but also Live Life Well, experiencing energy, purpose, and happiness well into their nineties and beyond.

What exactly are these Blue Zones?

The Blue Zones were first identified in 2004 through the combined efforts of Dan Buettner, National Geographic, the National Institute on Aging, and the world’s leading longevity researchers. People in these areas celebrate 100th birthdays at a rate 10x greater  than individuals in the US. They also maintain their vitality far into their nineties and beyond, leading active and fulfilling lives.

Despite the fact that blue zone communities are located across the globe, Buettner’s team discovered nine shared characteristics among these populations that contribute to Living Life Well.

Curious about their methods? We’ve uncovered nine surprisingly simple daily routines common to these long-living communities—and how you can integrate them into your own lifestyle, particularly right here at Village of Meyerland.

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 inherent aspect of life in these regions. You can integrate more natural movement into your daily routine by utilizing stairs, choosing to walk or bike instead of driving, and participating in gardening.

Outlook

2. “Purpose” – According to the Blue Zone Project, having a sense of purpose is worth up to seven years of extra life expectancy! This could involve your family, a volunteer position, or a hobby you are passionate about.
3. “Down Shift” – While stress is a universal experience, regardless of where you reside, it’s crucial to establish daily practices that assist in alleviating your stress. At the Village of Meyerland, we offer guided meditation, yoga classes, and peaceful areas for relaxation.

Eating

4. “80% Rule” – Consuming food until you reach 80% fullness rather than 100% can significantly impact your health.
5. “Plant Slant” – Instead of meat serving as the primary protein source, 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 meals.
6. “Wine at 5” – Individuals in the Blue Zones consume alcohol in moderation, typically one to two glasses daily with companions and food. Happy hours are a resident favorite here at the Village of Meyerland.

Connect

7. “Positive Pack” – Cultivating a supportive social network can reinforce healthy behaviors that enable you to Live Life Well. The Village of Meyerland fosters a strong sense of community through regular social gatherings and activities.
8. “Loved Ones First” – Prioritize spending quality time with your spouse, children, and grandchildren. We provide ideal settings and opportunities for residents to connect with family.
9. “Belong” – A feeling of belonging is vital for overall well-being. At the VIllage of Meyerland, our focus is on cultivating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where every individual feels valued and connected.

Passport to Adventure: Insights from Ikaria, Greece

While relocating to Ikaria might not be feasible, we can adopt some of their healthy habits into our own lives. For this month’s Passport to Adventure Destination, we focus on Ikaria, Greece, one of the Blue Zones! Our residents will enjoy a variety of enriching activities here at the Village of Meyerland inspired by this remarkable island.

Interested in participating in the excitement of our Monthly Passport to Adventure destinations? Schedule a visit!

The arrival of spring brings forth a wide range of opportunities to improve lifestyle quality, notably through enhanced exposure to daylight. It’s more than a feeling; The effects of the sun on our bodies are undeniably impactful.

The Science Behind Sunlight’s Advantages

Production of Vitamin D:

Perhaps its most well-known benefit, sunlight facilitates the creation of Vitamin D within our skin. This essential vitamin aids in calcium absorption, which is paramount for maintaining bone density and preventing osteoporosis. As individuals age, their bodies’ capacity to generate Vitamin D diminishes, thereby amplifying the significance of sun exposure. According to the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation, approximately 54 million Americans have osteoporosis and low bone mass, emphasizing the importance of Vitamin D intake.

Mood Enhancement:

Sunlight increases serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and promotes feelings of happiness and well-being. This can be particularly beneficial for older adults who may encounter seasonal affective disorder, depression, or similar mood-related challenges.

Improved Sleep Patterns:

Sunlight aids in regulating our circadian rhythm, the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Exposure to sunlight during the day can improve sleep quality at night. This is especially vital for seniors, as sleep patterns can alter with age.

Immune System Reinforcement:

Sunlight is crucial for bolstering immune function. While Vitamin D’s contribution to immune support is well-documented, research from Georgetown University Medical Center also indicates that sunlight, through a mechanism separate from vitamin D production, energizes T cells, which are critical for  immunity. Maintaining a strong immune system is essential for seniors to ward off illness and maintain overall health.

Cognitive Advantages:

The National Institute of Health suggests that Vitamin D can reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Adequate exposure to sunlight, and consequently sufficient vitamin D, can contribute to maintaining mental clarity.

Enjoying Sunlight at The Village of Meyerland

At The Village of Meyerland, we prioritize the creation of spaces that maximize natural light. Our residences feature expansive windows and thoughtfully designed communal areas that enable residents to enjoy the sun’s warmth and picturesque views.

Our beautifully landscaped outdoor spaces and organized activities encourage walks with neighbors, outdoor social gatherings, or relaxing with a book while soaking up the sun’s rays. Additionally, we arrange excursions to local Meyerland parks and scenic off-campus locations.

Safe Sun Exposure Practices

While the benefits of sunlight are substantial, practicing safe sun exposure is crucial. We recommend:

• Using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
• Wearing protective attire, such as hats and sunglasses.
• Staying well hydrated.

Enhancing Well-Being: Utilizing Sunlight’s Advantages

At The Village of Meyerland, we are committed to providing a lifestyle that fosters holistic wellness. By leveraging the simple yet powerful benefits of sunlight, you can improve your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. We invite you to experience the warmth and vitality of our community, where each day offers an opportunity to Live Life Well. 

Come experience the beauty of spring with us! Schedule a tour.