An Active Adult Community Blog

Winter can be hard on everyone’s mental and physical health. Night falls much quicker than we are used to, and the cold convinces us to stay inside under our favorite blankets instead of taking a walk.

Because the COVID-19 pandemic is still heavily affecting our country, it’s more important than ever to stay on top of your health. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, only 28–34% of adults aged 65–74 are physically active, and fewer than 5% of adults get at least thirty minutes of physical activity each day.

There are several ways to keep yourself feeling young, sharp, and energized as the winter season drags on. Make a conscious choice every day to eat healthy foods, move your body, and focus on positive thoughts.

We’ve all heard the expression, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks," but this couldn’t be further from the truth. You’re never too old to learn something new, and being lifelong learners can actually help us enhance our overall cognitive health as we age. 

There are things you can start doing right away to stay sharp that aren’t expensive and are easily accessible. Consider making a change to your life or monotonous routine by incorporating new activities into your schedule, such as developing a new hobby, enrolling in adult learning classes, or cultivating new relationships.

There are many fun activities you can do with your friends or family in the Des Moines, Iowa area. Whether you’re looking for a fun outside activity, good food or drinks, or a place to go for some needed alone time, there is something for everyone.

Here are some of our favorite places and things to do in the Des Moines area:

The holidays are just around the corner, and you may be thinking of fun and safe activities you can do with your family. Decorations from the store are great, but homemade crafts can be even more meaningful.

As summer fades and a new season begins, your home and its landscaping may need a different kind of care in the cooler months ahead.

In times like these, it’s important to have a community of friends and family close by for support. A close-knit community should be sought above all else. Cultivating meaningful relationships may be different right now due to social distancing, especially for people who identify as introverts.

If you’re widowed or an empty nester, you may be thinking about relocating to be closer to your family. This kind of major move can be stressful, and maybe even a little scary, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming!

People born between 1945 and 1960, or Baby Boomers, were born into a world at war, and exposed to many hardships at a young age. Work-life balance wasn’t always a primary concern for the workforce of this generation. Perhaps as a result of this upbringing, 80% of Boomers in the workforce report high levels of stress. While a life filled with work can be purposeful, it can also lead to chronic stress and burnout.

Owning and maintaining a multi-level home can be hard, time-consuming work, especially as you age. Your life could be much simpler by transitioning to single level living in an active adult community!

Despite the stigma around growing old, turning 55 opens up a wide variety of opportunities and benefits not available until now. You’ve lived and learned and contributed to society for your entire adult life, and now it’s time to reap the rewards!