Schedule a TourSpending quality time with mom or grandma can create cherished memories for all involved. Finding a destination that caters to her interests and creates space for connection allows everyone to make the most of the time together. At Onion Creek, our community members have a number of local spots they love to enjoy with family and friends. Below are our resident recommendations for where to spend time with mom or grandma when you want to connect and Live Life Well.
Our Resident Recommendations for Time with Mom Near Austin
Austin’s lively culture and gorgeous scenery offer the perfect backdrop for celebrating the important moms in your life. Need even more of a reason to spend time with those you love? According to The National Institute of Aging, staying socially connected offers a variety of health benefits including increased cognitive function, increased ability to cope, decreased rates of depression, and even decrease in certain diseases! Learn more about the health benefits of social connection here.
If staying in is your preference, enjoy our beautiful campus here at Village on the Park Onion Creek with your family. Interested in learning about social connection and fun activities available every day at Onion Creek in Austin, Texas? Contact us to schedule a tour!
Could the secret to a longer life be simpler than you think? Stretching from the sun-drenched hills of Sardinia to the serene shores of Okinawa, there are five unique places globally—known as the Blue Zones—where individuals not only live longer lives but also Live Life Well, experiencing vitality, purpose, and joy well into their nineties and beyond.
The Blue Zones were initially identified in 2004 by Dan Buettner, National Geographic, the National Institute on Aging, and the world’s foremost longevity researchers. In these regions, individuals celebrate 100th birthdays at a rate 10x greater than people in the US. They also maintain their vigor well into their nineties and beyond, leading active and fulfilling lives.
Although blue zone communities are spread across the globe, Buettner’s team discovered nine shared characteristics among these populations that contribute to Living Life Well.
Intrigued by their methods? We’ve uncovered nine surprisingly straightforward daily habits these long-living communities share—and how you can integrate them into your own lifestyle, especially right here at Village on the Park Onion Creek.
Spoiler alert: It’s not about trendy diets or endless workouts…it’s about community, purpose, and balance.
While relocating to Ikaria might not be practical, 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 Village on the Park Onion Creek. inspired by this remarkable island.
Interested in participating in the fun of our Monthly Passport to Adventure destinations? Schedule a visit!
With the arrival of spring, a multitude of opportunities to Live Life Well, particularly through increased exposure to daylight hours. The effects of sunlight on our bodies are undeniably impactful.
Maybe its most recognized benefit, sunlight facilitates the synthesis of Vitamin D within our skin. This essential vitamin aids in the absorption of calcium, which is paramount for preserving 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.
Sunlight boosts 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.
Sunlight helps regulate 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.
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.
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.
At Village on the Park Onion Creek, 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 Austin parks and scenic off-campus locations.
While the benefits of sunlight are substantial, practicing safe sun exposure is crucial. We recommend:
At Village on the Park Onion Creek, 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 for a fulfilling life.
Come experience the beauty of spring with us! Schedule a tour.
Banish those winter blues by embracing the energy and joy of social opportunities! At Village on the Park Onion Creek, it’s a perfect time to enjoy cozy comforts and fun indoor activities.
Game Night: Gather your friends and neighbors for a lively game of cards, billiards, or shuffleboard in our spacious common rooms. It’s the perfect place to socialize and enjoy some friendly competition! Here at Village on the Park Onion Creek, our residents love to play spades, Scrabble, and chess!
Movie Matinees: Enjoy the movies without leaving the building! Our comfortable movie nights hosts regular screenings of classic films and new releases.
Creative Workshops: Whether you enjoy painting, knitting, scrapbooking, or other creative pursuits, you’ll find all the supplies and inspiration you need!
Book Club: Curl up with a good book in our cozy library, stocked with a wide variety of genres and titles. Many residents participate in weekly book club discussions, too!
Fitness Classes: Here at Village on the Park Onion Creek, our residents enjoy a wide variety of fitness classes! Choose from yoga, dance classes, aerobics, and more.
Ice Cream Socials + Happy Hour: Our residents always love an excuse to socialize and enjoy good food! We host ice cream socials, happy hours, and a variety of themed events all year round!
Our warm and welcoming atmosphere provides the perfect backdrop for creating cherished memories, no matter the season.
Come see for yourself! We invite you to visit Village on the Park Onion Creek and experience the warmth and vibrancy of our community this winter. Contact us today to schedule a tour.
Happy New Year! As we embark on a fresh start, it’s a wonderful opportunity to focus on our health and well-being. This year, forget about rigid resolutions and discover what truly works for YOU. Here are four simple strategies to promote a healthy and fulfilling year:
Physical activity is essential, but it should also be enjoyable! Explore different ways to get moving and find what you genuinely like. Whether it’s a daily walk with a friend, swimming, or joining a dance class, embrace activities that bring you pleasure. Staying active helps you maintain independence, boost your energy, and keep up with your grandkids and great-grandkids. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise on most days.
Here at Village on the Park Onion Creek, we provide a range of fitness classes designed for various needs and abilities, including chair yoga, aerobics, and strength training.
Just like our bodies, our minds thrive on activity! Engage in stimulating activities like reading, puzzles, games, and learning new skills.
Social interaction is also crucial for cognitive health. Join a book club, attend a lecture, or simply enjoy conversations with your neighbors. At Village on the Park Onion Creek, we offer a diverse calendar of activities, such as clubs, classes, and game nights.
Healthy eating is a common goal, but it doesn’t have to be restrictive. Enjoy your favorite foods in moderation while focusing on making small, sustainable changes. Consider swapping processed snacks for nutrient-rich options, adding more vegetables to your meals, or simply drinking more water throughout the day.
At Village on the Park Onion Creek, we support healthy eating by providing delicious and nutritious meal options made with fresh ingredients.
Life can be full, even in retirement! Remember to prioritize relaxation, stress management, and self-care. Find activities that help you unwind, whether it’s meditation, connecting with nature, or enjoying quiet time with a good book.
This new year, let Village on the Park Onion Creek assist you in achieving your lifestyle goals. We offer a vibrant community, enriching activities, and valuable resources to help you live your best life.
Wishing you a happy, healthy, and fulfilling new year!
As the holiday season fills our calendars with festive gatherings and family traditions, it’s important to take a moment to observe how our aging parents are managing their daily lives. This time of togetherness provides a unique opportunity to assess their well-being and identify any potential areas where they might need assistance. Here are some key indicators to watch for:
The holidays can be a time of joy and celebration, but they can also reveal subtle signs that our aging parents may require additional support. By being attentive and proactive, you can help them age gracefully and maintain their independence.
If you have questions about senior living options or need guidance on how to best support your aging parents, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help.
Moving to a senior living community is an exciting new chapter in life! It’s a chance to simplify, embrace new experiences, and enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle. But packing for this transition can feel overwhelming. This room-by-room guide will help you streamline the process and ensure you bring all the essentials to your new home.
Bedroom:
Bathroom:
Living Room:
Kitchen:
Tips for a Smooth Move:
Ready to experience senior living? Schedule a tour at Village on the Park Onion Creek! We’re excited to show you around and answer any questions you may have about making our community your new home.
An active social life is a key ingredient to a fulfilling life as we get older. And as an added bonus it’s fun too! At Village on the Park Onion Creek, we recognize the importance of social interaction and have created a dynamic environment that fosters easy socialization and the development of meaningful relationships. Here are a few fun suggestions for staying socially connected during this chapter of life.
There’s nothing quite like sharing your favorite breakfast treats with your favorite people! Our residents can enjoy chef-prepared dishes right here at Village on the Park Onion Creek. They appreciate having wonderful company to share the experience with – whether it’s with their fellow residents or by inviting friends and family to join them!
Participating in a class is a fantastic way to meet new people while taking part in a favorite hobby or exploring a new skill! Art classes like painting, drawing, and sewing are popular choices among our residents.
Game nights are a regular highlight on our activities and events calendar! Our residents love getting together in our common areas for exciting card games, board games, and bingo. Playing games is entertaining, mentally stimulating, and fosters connections with friends and neighbors. If you’re not feeling competitive, how about putting together a puzzle?
Do you have a passion for finding and sharing new books? Joining a book club is a fantastic way to engage in thoughtful discussions about your favorite and/or newly discovered books. We have numerous book clubs here focused on various genres, ensuring there’s a group 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 bit of extra courage and intentionality to engage socially. At Village on the Park Onion Creek, we offer a wide range of social activities and events designed to cater to diverse interests and cultivate a sense of belonging.
Curious to learn more about life at Village on the Park Onion Creek? Book a tour and experience the joys of a socially fulfilling lifestyle!
If you’re considering a move to a senior living community, you may be wondering whether your family and friends will still come to visit. At Village on the Park Onion Creek, we understand this concern. That’s why we’ve created a welcoming space where your loved ones will love to spend time with you. Our community offers a variety of amenities that are perfect for connecting and creating memories.
Ready to see for yourself why Village on the Park Onion Creek is the perfect place for you and your loved ones? Contact us today to schedule a visit.
Thinking about downsizing and moving to a senior living community? While downsizing can seem like a big job, having a well-thought-out plan can make it easier. We understand the sentimental value, volume, and practicality of your items can make it hard to determine what to keep. Explore our organization tips before your move. Let’s start Spring Cleaning!
Find Your Motivation
Getting started on organizing may need some motivation! Your personal goals, such as reducing chores or participating in more social gatherings, can be a great source of motivation. Get inspired by looking forward to the aspects of senior living that bring you the most joy.
Imagine the possibilities for your new space for a fun way to get a sense of what items you should bring with you. We can work together to create a furniture plan for your future home at Village on the Park Onion Creek. This will help your decision-making process by identifying the items you want to keep.
Tip: To simplify downsizing, begin with a clean slate and gradually incorporate only the items that are essential to you, instead of trying to declutter all at once.
Find What Works for You
When it comes to downsizing, there are many different methods to try. It’s important to find the one that works best for you! Consider what time of day you feel most motivated. If you’re a morning person, it may be beneficial to carve out some time in the morning for organizing. Another option is to play music to keep your energy levels high while decluttering. We recommend experimenting with different approaches to see which organizational style you prefer!
Tip: Create a schedule for your downsizing projects, including designated break times, and stick to it. Having a set time for both work and rest will help you manage the process effectively.
One Step at a Time
If you are someone who is goal-oriented, this packing hack is just right for you! It is advisable to handle each area or space separately. This way, you will experience a sense of success each time you finish organizing a full closet or cluttered desk. Checking items off your to-do list is always a rewarding feeling!
Categorize Items
Your possessions likely hold sentimental value and letting go can be challenging. Sorting your belongings into four piles will ensure each item is used efficiently:
Tip: One way to predict if you will miss something is to think about whether you have used it within the last year. If you haven’t, chances are you won’t use it in the next year either.
Simplify Unpacking
Don’t forget to label every box with the items it contains and the room it belongs in while packing. This will simplify the unpacking process and ensure you can easily find everything you need.
Tip: Before moving day, prepare a special box labeled “Immediate Use” with essentials like glasses, medication, and chargers for easy access.
Though downsizing may be overwhelming at first glance, implementing these effective tips and tricks will streamline the process! Not to mention, downsizing brings about several benefits including less clutter, reduced home maintenance stress, and increased enjoyment at a senior living community.
Have questions regarding downsizing or want help with creating a plan? Our team is happy to help out!