Happy New Year! It’s that time of year again – a chance to reflect, refresh, and prioritize our well-being. But let’s skip the rigid resolutions and instead focus on what truly works for YOU. Here are four simple ways to cultivate a healthy and fulfilling year:

1. Move Your Body

We all know that staying active is vital, but it should also be enjoyable! Explore the many ways to get moving and find what brings you joy. Whether it’s a refreshing swim, a nature walk with a friend, or finally trying that dance class, choose activities that make you feel alive. Think of it as a gift to yourself – a way to maintain independence, boost your energy, and keep up with grandkids. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

At the Village of Meyerland, we offer diverse fitness classes to suit different needs and abilities, including chair yoga, aerobics, and strength training.

2. Engage Your Mind 

Just like our bodies, our minds thrive on activity! Make time for mentally engaging pursuits like reading, puzzles, games, or learning a new skill.

And don’t forget the power of social connection! Join a book club, attend an interesting lecture, or simply enjoy a lively conversation with your neighbors. At the Village of Meyerland, our calendar is packed with stimulating activities, including clubs, classes, and game nights.

3. Nourish Yourself with Wholesome Foods

Healthy eating is a common goal, but it doesn’t have to be restrictive. Savor delicious meals and treats in moderation while focusing on making gradual, sustainable changes. Try swapping out processed snacks for fresh fruits and vegetables, incorporating more veggies into your meals, or simply increasing your water intake.

At the Village of Meyerland, we make healthy eating easy by offering delicious meal options prepared with fresh ingredients and packed with essential nutrients.

4. Prioritize Your Well-being 

Life can be busy, especially in retirement! Taking time to relax, de-stress, and practice self-care is essential for both your mental and physical health. Discover what helps you unwind, whether it’s meditation, spending time in nature, or losing yourself in a good book.

This new year, let the Village of Meyerland be your partner in achieving your lifestyle goals. We offer a vibrant community, enriching activities, and helpful resources to support you in living your best life.

Here’s to a happy, healthy, and fulfilling new year!

The holidays are a busy time! The calendar quickly fills up with family festivities and parties. This time of togetherness can provide a good opportunity to observe how your aging parents are managing their day-to-day life. Here’s what to look for when spending time with your loved ones to best assess if they would benefit from additional support. 

1. Home Upkeep:

• Home maintenance: Is the house tidy and well-kept, or are there signs of things being neglected, like piled-up mail or unfinished repairs?
• Meal preparation: Are they cooking regular meals, or is the refrigerator sparsely stocked? Are there expired items or signs they’re struggling with meal preparation?
• Personal care: Pay attention to their appearance. Are they keeping up with bathing and dressing?

2. Managing Everyday Activities:

• Mobility: Assess how easily they move around the house. Are they having difficulty with stairs, getting in and out of chairs, or walking for short distances?
• Medication management: Make sure they are keeping track of their medications. Are pill boxes organized, or are medications scattered and potentially missed?
• Cognitive skills: Are they following conversations, remembering appointments, and managing finances without difficulty? Are there any signs of confusion or forgetfulness?

3. Socialization and Engagement:

• Social interaction: Take note if your loved one is engaging in conversations and participating in family activities. Or are they more withdrawn than usual? 
• Mood: Be aware of significant changes in their mood, such as increased sadness, anxiety, or irritability.
• Hobbies and interests: Check to see if they are still pursuing hobbies and activities they enjoy. 

4. Safety:

• Driving: If they’re still driving, observe their driving habits. Are they confident and alert behind the wheel?
• Falls: Have they had any recent falls or near falls? Are they showing any signs of unsteadiness or difficulty with balance?
• Home safety: Are there any potential hazards in the home, such as steep stairs or loose rugs, that could increase their risk of falls or accidents?

Next Steps:

The holidays can be a time of joy and togetherness, but they can also reveal subtle signs that our aging parents may need more help. By being observant and proactive, you can ensure they receive the care and support they need to live fulfilling lives.

Have questions about senior living options or how to best support your aging parents? We’re here to help! Contact us today.

Moving to a senior living community is an exciting new chapter! It’s a chance to simplify your life, connect with others, and enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle. This room-by-room packing checklist will help you prepare for your move and ensure you have everything you need to feel comfortable and at home in your new surroundings.

Bedroom:

• Clothing: Pack a variety of clothes for everyday wear, relaxing at night, and special occasions.
• Bedding: Bring your favorite sheets, blankets, pillows, and a mattress pad for a good night’s sleep.
• Make it Personal: Add your personal touch to your new space with photos of loved ones, artwork, and décor.
• Nightstand Essentials: An alarm clock, reading lamp, and nightlight are always useful to have close by.
• Important Documents: Keep important documents like your ID, insurance cards, medical records, and financial paperwork organized and easily accessible.

Bathroom:

• Toiletries: Pack all your essential toiletries together in one box: shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothbrush, medications, and eyeglasses.
  • Keep it Within Reach: This toiletries box should be kept separate and easily accessible, not packed away in the moving truck.
• Bathroom Basics: Don’t forget items like a soap dish, toothbrush holder, non-slip bath mat, and a wastebasket.
• Comfort Items: Bring bath towels, a comfortable bathrobe, and non-slip slippers.

Living Room:

• Create a Relaxing Space: Bring cozy throw blankets, lamps, and your favorite furniture pieces, such as a sofa or loveseat, recliner, coffee table, and end tables.
• Entertainment: Pack your favorite books, magazines, games, or craft supplies, along with your TV, radio, laptop/tablet, and cell phone.
• Cherished Memories: Display your treasured family photos, keepsakes, and décor that brings you joy.

Kitchen:

• Dining Essentials: Pack a few sets of dishes, cutlery, and glassware for enjoying meals and snacks in your new home.
• Appliances: A small coffee maker or toaster oven can be handy for preparing quick meals and beverages.
• Pantry Staples: Don’t forget your favorite coffee, tea, and snacks!

Tips for a Smooth Transition:

• Declutter and Downsize: Before packing, take the time to declutter and donate or discard items you no longer need or use.
• Pack What You Love: Walk through your home and choose only the items you truly want, need, and have space for in your new residence.
• Label Everything: Clearly label each box with the room it belongs to and its contents.
• “First Night” Box: Pack a separate box with essential items like toiletries, medications, a change of clothes, and a phone charger.

Ready to embrace your new home? Schedule a tour at Village of Meyerland today! We’d be delighted to show you around and answer any questions you may have about making our community your new home.

Maintaining an active social life is a key aspect of overall well-being as we age. And it’s also a lot of fun! At the Village of Meyerland, we understand the importance of social connections and have created a vibrant environment that fosters easy socialization and the development of meaningful relationships. Here are a few engaging ways to stay socially connected during this chapter of life.

Bond Over Brunch with Friends

There’s nothing quite like enjoying your favorite breakfast dishes with your favorite people! Our residents can savor chef-prepared meals right here at the Village of Meyerland. They love having fantastic company to enjoy it with – whether it’s with their fellow residents or by inviting friends and family to join the fun!

Join an Art Class

Participating in a class is a wonderful way to meet new people while indulging in a beloved hobby or exploring a new skill! Art classes like painting, drawing, and sewing are popular choices among our residents.

Host Game Night 

Game nights are a regular fixture on our activities and events calendar! Our residents have a great time gathering in our common areas for lively card games, board games, and bingo. Playing games is entertaining, mentally stimulating, and fosters connections with friends and neighbors. Not in the mood for competition? How about joining in on a puzzle?

Join a Book Club 

Do you enjoy discovering and discussing new books? Joining a book club is a wonderful way to engage in thoughtful conversations about your favorite and/or newly discovered books. We have numerous book clubs here focused on various genres, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

The secret to staying connected as we age is to find activities that bring us joy and allow us to interact and connect with others in a meaningful way. As our abilities, interests, and routines change, it might require a little extra effort and intention to put ourselves out there socially. At the Village of Meyerland, we provide a wide array of social activities and events tailored to diverse interests, creating a strong sense of community. 

Interested in learning more about life at the Village of Meyerland? Schedule a tour and experience the joys of a socially fulfilling lifestyle!

Concerned about family and friends visiting if you move to senior living? At The Village of Meyerland we’ve created a community that’s designed to be a hub for connection, not isolation. Our amenities and activities cater to all ages, making it easy and enjoyable for loved ones to spend quality time together.

• Dining: Discover a variety of dining options that cater to every palate. From casual cafes to fine dining, there’s something for everyone in your family to enjoy.
• Celebrate Life’s Milestones: Host a special event in one of our versatile spaces, perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, or any occasion you want to mark.
• Game On: Enjoy a game of cards, chess, or your family’s favorite board game in one of our comfortable common areas.
• Artistic Adventures: Let your creativity shine with our full selection of art supplies. Craft personalized gifts, decorate frames, or create unique home decor with your loved ones.
• Explore Nature’s Beauty: Wander through our scenic gardens and walking paths, taking in the fresh air and enjoying quality time with family and friends.

Ready to Join the Fun? Let us show you how The Village of Meyerland fosters a vibrant and connected lifestyle for seniors and their loved ones. Schedule a tour today to discover the possibilities! 

Are you thinking of moving to a senior living community but worried about downsizing? Though downsizing can feel like a big job, it can be simplified with the right planning and techniques. Check out our tips for getting organized before your move and kick off your Spring Cleaning!

Find Your Motivation

Starting to get organized may seem difficult, but drawing inspiration from your personal goals can be a great way to get things moving. If you’re excited about having fewer chores or more social events in your senior living community, let that excitement drive you forward.

Consider how you will fill and decorate your new space! This is an enjoyable way to decide which items to bring to your new home. We are happy to help you create a furniture plan for your future residence at The Village of Meyerland. Having a list of items you want to keep will simplify the decision-making process.

Find Your Process

Downsizing can be tackled in multiple ways. It is essential to find the approach that resonates with you. Consider when you feel most driven during the day. If you’re a morning person, consider setting aside time in the morning. Another tip is to listen to music while organizing to keep your energy levels up. Try out different methods to discover the organization style that best suits you.

Tip: Allocate specific time for working and resting to ensure a smoother process.

One Step at a Time 

If you are someone who thrives on efficiency, this packing tip is just for you! We recommend tackling one space at a time to feel a sense of completion after organizing a packed closet or messy desk. The satisfaction of crossing off tasks on your to-do list is always gratifying!

Build Different Piles 

We understand that your possessions may have sentimental significance and letting go of them can be tough. Sorting your items into four different piles is recommended to ensure they are all put to good use.

• Keep – This is the easy one! Save items that you know you’ll love having in your new home.
• Gift – If you have items taking up space in your home that you no longer need, consider giving them to your children, grandchildren, or neighbors who could make good use of them.
• Donate – By donating to nonprofit organizations, you can ensure that your gently used items will be appreciated by a new owner! Check out local resale shops in your area, as some may offer complimentary furniture collection services.
• Discard – While it may not be as fun, experiencing quick relief by throwing items in the trash or recycling bin is a rewarding feeling.

Tip: If you’re unsure if you’ll miss something, reflect on whether you have utilized it in the past year. If not, it’s probable you won’t need it in the future.

Get Labeling 

Make sure to label every box with the items and corresponding room before packing. This method will assist in prioritizing unpacking tasks and locating items easily when needed.

Tip: Don’t forget to prepare a designated box labeled “Right Away” for important items like glasses, medications, and chargers that you will need right after moving day.

Make downsizing less daunting with these helpful tips! Downsizing can result in a more orderly home, less maintenance stress, and more community activities at The Village of Meyerland.

What does independence mean to you? To us, it means making your own choices and living on your own terms. At the Village of Meyerland, we understand that true independence thrives with the right support. Here are our tips for maintaining and enhancing your lifestyle. 

Staying Fit

Staying active can help you maintain your independence because it can slow the effects of aging! We offer a variety of programs to help you stay strong and capable. From lively group classes to personalized routines, our goal is to find a fitness plan that suits your unique needs. At the Village of Meyerland, we champion your wellness at every stage.

A Full Social Calendar 

Connection and laughter make life more fun! Our community calendar is full of ways to enjoy just that – outings to Houston’s best eateries, creative workshops, and competitive game nights. Socializing isn’t just about fun – it also boosts your mental and physical health according to the National Library of Medicine!

More Time for What You Want 

Senior living is about ditching the chores for more freedom in your day-to-day life! Our dedicated team handles home chores and meal prep, giving you hours back in your day. This means having more time for hobbies, family dinners, or simple relaxation. 

Choose a community that prioritizes your time, and unlocks new levels of independence. Here at the Village of Meyerland, you’ll find the resources and support to live the independent life you love. Ready to explore a lifestyle designed for your freedom? Schedule a tour!