Indian summers can be brutal, with temperatures soaring above comfortable levels in many cities. Combined with high humidity, the summers can become even more uncomfortable. This often leads to dehydration. The risk of heat strokes also increases, especially for the seniors. As one of the leading senior living homes in India, we share some lifestyle and self-care tips to help retirees stay healthy during the summers.  1. Stay hydrated: Seniors must drink sufficient water throughout the day. Staying hydrated is crucial to avoid dehydration. Seniors who do not drink enough water can experience fatigue, dizziness, and even heat strokes. They should aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water every day at regular intervals. Seniors can also get hydration from coconut water, electrolyte water, buttermilk, and other healthy sources. They should avoid caffeinated drinks and alcohol during the summer, as these drinks can increase dehydration. 2. Cool and light diet: They should stick to light meals. It is important to include summer fruits and vegetables that offer high water content, such as cucumbers and watermelons. Consuming yoghurt daily can also boost digestion during summers. 3. Dress appropriately: Comfortable dressing is one of the easiest ways to reduce the effects of intense heat and humidity. Seniors should opt for loose-fitted cotton clothes. Cotton clothing can absorb sweat and allow it to evaporate over time. When stepping out, seniors must wear a hat to protect their face from the direct glare of the sun and a pair of sunglasses. 4. Regulate indoor temperature: Seniors need to keep the interiors of their living space cool. They can achieve this by closing the blinds and minimising direct sunlight during the afternoon. 5. Regular check-ups: Seniors should visit their healthcare provider to ensure they are in good health. Monitoring blood pressure, sugar levels, and other vital parameters can help prevent complications related to heat and dehydration. 6. Stay active indoors: Physical activity is essential, but seniors should avoid outdoor exercise during the hottest parts of the day. Instead, they can do light indoor activities such as stretching or yoga in an air-conditioned space. 7. Know the signs of heat-related illnesses: Understanding the symptoms of heat-related illnesses can save lives. Seniors should be aware of signs such as excessive sweating, weakness, nausea, headache, muscle cramps, and a rapid heartbeat. Immediate action, such as moving to a cooler place and hydrating, is crucial if these symptoms occur. In severe cases, they should seek medical attention promptly. 8. Stay connected: Isolation can be a risk factor during extreme weather conditions. Seniors should stay connected with family, friends, or neighbours who can check on them regularly. Having a support system ensures that someone is available to help in case of an emergency. Additional tips: Taking cool showers, using damp washcloths on pulse points, and placing feet in a basin of cool water can help lower body temperature. Using lightweight, breathable bedding can also ensure a comfortable night’s sleep. Leading senior living homes in India often organise wellness workshops during summers. These workshops focus on promoting health and well-being amongst residents. Topics typically include staying hydrated, maintaining a balanced diet, and recognising the signs of heat-related illnesses. Experts may give talks on managing chronic conditions in hot weather. They might also offer practical advice on staying cool and comfortable. Activities often include gentle exercises, yoga sessions, and demonstrations of healthy summer recipes. These workshops provide valuable information and help seniors stay active and engaged. Looking for information on senior living in India? If  you are searching online with phrases such as  “senior citizen living in India” or “senior living homes in India”, explore our communities. Our dedicated staff create a welcoming atmosphere where everyone feels at home. At our senior living homes, every day is a chance to be part of a lively and supportive community that celebrates life. We conduct regular workshops on various health topics to keep our residents informed and engaged. These workshops cover essential areas such as nutrition, fitness, mental well-being, and managing chronic conditions. To know more, call us at +91 8884555554.

It is often said that location is the key to a successful property investment. You can change many things about a house, like the design and features, but you cannot change its location. Also, a good location can greatly impact the quality of life during the golden years. As one of the leading retirement communities in India, we share with you some of the useful insights on assessing the location of senior living communities: 1. Proximity to healthcare facilities such as hospitals and clinics, is important for easy access to medical services. Choosing a location with easy access to healthcare facilities not only promotes physical health but also supports the overall well-being of seniors. It alleviates the stress and inconvenience associated with long-distance travel for medical appointments and emergencies, allowing seniors to focus on maintaining their health and enjoying their retirement years to the fullest. 2. For seniors, living in a neighbourhood that offers convenient access to essential amenities can greatly improve their daily lives. Proximity to grocery stores and pharmacies can make a significant difference in terms of convenience. 3. In addition to essential amenities, having recreational areas nearby can contribute to an active and fulfilling lifestyle. Parks, walking trails, community centres, and fitness facilities offer opportunities for physical exercise, social interaction, and leisure activities. 4. It is important to choose a neighbourhood with a strong sense of community as it helps seniors create meaningful connections and enjoy an active and fulfilling lifestyle. A strong sense of community encourages mutual assistance amongst its members. Seniors can rely on their neighbours for practical help, such as running errands, home maintenance, or transportation assistance. 5. For seniors seeking spiritual and religious fulfilment, living in a neighbourhood with nearby spiritual and religious places can bring a sense of connection and fulfilment. 6. For seniors who have a deep appreciation for art, living in a neighbourhood that offers proximity to art-related venues and activities can be highly rewarding. For instance, living near art galleries will help seniors explore and appreciate various forms of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and mixed media. 7. “The more I live, the more I learn. The more I learn, the more I realise how much there is still to discover.” This quote by renowned French musical composer Michel Legrand, encapsulates the essence of lifelong learning. Seniors who understand the importance of continuous learning should select a neighbourhood that has access to educational institutions, community centres, libraries, or adult learning programmes. 8. When considering a place to live, seniors should research crime statistics, consult local law enforcement agencies, and engage with the community to gather information about the safety of the area. This proactive approach ensures that they can select a neighbourhood with low crime rates, providing a secure and peaceful environment where they can thrive and enjoy their retirement years to the fullest. Planning to buy retirement homes in India?  Explore our retirement homes for NRIs in India. Our spacious and beautifully appointed residences offer the perfect balance of elegance and cosiness, tailored to meet your unique preferences. From stylishly designed living spaces to picturesque views of our lush surroundings, we have thoughtfully crafted every detail to make you feel right at home. To know more about our senior living communities in India, call us at +91 8884555554. 

Life is full of ups and downs. Sudden events in life can leave you without routine or make you feel less productive. You may find yourself not wanting to get out of bed or staying up late worrying. A vacation is a great way to de-stress when you feel overwhelmed but that may not be practical every time you feel stressed. As one of the best senior citizen homes in India, we share a few simple ways to reset your mind to improve your overall well-being: Calm your mind: When your thoughts are all over the place, it can be difficult to focus. Dedicate 5 minutes of your day to settle your mind by taking deep breaths. Deep breathing exercises have positive effects on psychological well-being. Starting your day with breathing exercises helps you remain calm throughout the day. Besides breathing exercise, taking a walk in nature and yoga are a few great ways to calm your mind. Declutter your mind for clarity: Knowing your priorities can help you feel less anxious. One of the best ways to declutter your mind is to plan your days ahead. Preparing ahead of time ensures that you have a calmer morning because you know how your day looks. Another way to clear your mind is to write down your thoughts and worries. Develop self-compassion: There are times when you find yourself comparing to others, striving too hard to be perfect and doubting your capabilities. Doing this only works against you. Be gentle and kind to yourself and accept that you are not perfect. With every mistake you make, there is potential for learning. Turn your inner critic into a supporter by developing a positive attitude towards yourself. Get moving: When you exercise daily, you feel that you are becoming a better version of yourself. Regular exercise gives you a dose of feel-good endorphins. Walking, yoga, aerobics, and swimming are not just good for staying fit, they also bring clarity to your thoughts and help you feel accomplished. Practise meditation: Every day, your mind deals with information overload that contributes to stress. By meditating, you can clear your mind, reduce negative emotions and gain a new perspective. We hope you can take a thing or two from this list and make a conscious effort to make your mind your friend. As one of the best senior living communities in India, we provide every possible help to our residents to reset their minds like, ensuring that they start their days with yoga classes. Also, our senior living communities are beautifully landscaped so that our residents feel closer to nature.

As people age, they often consider moving to independent senior living apartments. Earlier, the notion was that people move into senior living communities when they do not have a choice. But today more and more senior citizens are proactively moving to senior citizen homes because these communities offer an active lifestyle and a feeling of community, along with a wide range of support services and amenities. Before finding the right independent living community for your senior parents, first, determine if they are a good candidate for independent living. Ask yourself the following questions: Are they in good health? Do they feel bored at home? Are their household chores taking time away from doing what they love? Do they want a socially and physically active lifestyle? Are they worried about maintenance and repairs? Do they feel secure in their homes? If your elderly parents can care for themselves without assistance and wish to lead a maintenance-free lifestyle, they are the right candidates for independent living. When your parents move to a senior living community, they don’t have to worry about the following things: Preparing meals: As people age, their nutritional needs change but at the same time, they find it difficult to prepare meals. Cooking and cleaning up afterwards can be tedious while eating take-out is not feasible in the long run. Residents at senior living communities get to relish well-balanced food while enjoying the company of fellow residents. Home maintenance: Does the lawn need to be mowed? Is the mixer grinder in need of a repair? If your parents are tired of maintaining the house, it is a sign that they would love staying in independent living communities where housekeeping and maintenance services are offered. Social life: If your parents are feeling more and more isolated and their social circle has diminished, one of the best places to make new friends is at an independent living community. Not only will your parents get to meet others of their own age, but they will also get to be a part of a thriving community where there are different activities such as exercise classes, indoor games, music classes, movie nights, lunch, and dinner outings to look forward to.

Be it drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, or any other form of visual art – the process of creating something from scratch can be quite therapeutic for people of all ages, especially seniors. Expressing oneself through art is one of the proven methods of keeping stress at bay and keeping oneself engaged in a creative manner. With art therapy, one can let negative emotions take a backseat and make room for positive feelings. When practiced in groups, art is a great way to meet like-minded people and make new social connections. Art helps to alleviate loneliness and isolation – as one of the best rated senior living communities we organise art workshops to encourage our residents to discover their creative side.  We feature the artwork of our residents in our monthly journals. Here are some of the benefits of art therapy: Benefits of drawing: Drawing is a great way to challenge the mind creatively. The brain is actively engaged in imagining what to draw while at the same time exploring tools like pencils, markers and brushes. The targeted use of drawing helps to keep the mind sharp and promotes dexterity. It also offers a way to seniors to communicate and express themselves. Not only does drawing help in reducing stress and boosting self-esteem, but it can also help seniors refine their fine motor skills. Benefits of painting: Active participation in the arts like painting can have a positive impact on the health and well-being of seniors in many ways. Painting or even colouring sessions can be quite therapeutic for senior adults. Painting evokes feelings of peace and fun. It sharpens the mind through conceptual visualisation and implementation. People who frequently write, paint or draw have less chance of developing illnesses related to memory loss as they age. Those who find it difficult to open up about their feelings easily may find painting a great way to release their inner feelings. Benefits of writing: Unlike talking, when people write they use sophisticated words and expressions to convey what they have in mind. Writing is a thinking exercise, and just like physical exercise, it can help the brain stay in ‘shape’ especially as one ages. Writing about positive experiences is associated with an increased sense of well-being. Writing or journaling has also been linked to improved mood and reduced stress levels.

As you retire, you are no longer held back by the responsibilities of work. If you are looking forward to spending your sunset years exploring a plethora of sights and cultures, you are on the right page. As one of the best rated senior living communities, we have curated the list of 6 fabulous travel videos that you would love: Video 1 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=er2tS8vWXHs: Those of you who love inviting beaches and yachts, you must watch this video capturing the beauty of French Riviera. One of the most sought-after places in the world to visit, French Riviera has something for everyone – from museums and casinos to extravagant architecture and sumptuous food. This video also captures details about the 19th-century aristocrats and the life they led along Nice’s Promenade des Anglais. Video 2 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fq70UHD8DrM: The world is full of ancient ruins and if you are a history buff, you will love this video. The video covers 25 ancient ruins that include places like Stonehenge (UK), Ayutthaya (Thailand), Machu Picchu (Peru) and Hampi (Karnataka). After watching this video, you will be amazed by the incredible feats of engineering and architecture that still hold these places together. Video 3 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4HuhPRoyGE: If your idea of a holiday is to see the elegant Venetian palaces and the city’s most iconic landmarks, you should indeed watch this video. This video will take you through amazing places in Venice. You will get an idea on the museums to visit, the bridges to walk on and the islands to explore. . Watch this video to avoid the hustle and stress of planning. Video 4 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-dQexveY0cs: If you are an art lover, you will love this incredibly informative video on Yogyakarta, an important hub that still preserves the ancient Indonesian art, skills and heritage. The video throws light on Yogyakarta’s cultural, intellectual and spiritual traditions. Palaces, museums, puppetry, artwork and cuisine – everything is covered in this beautifully shot video. Video 5 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HZOuDhwzsq0: The sunset at Santorini is one of the most wonderful sights to see. This video gives you a glimpse of the world’s most unique beaches. The video covers cave dwellings, sacred churches, and historical sites beautifully. Video 6 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IgAnj6r1O48&ab_channel=touropia: Even within India, there is always something new to see and something new to eat. From visiting Udaipur, city of lakes, to Varanasi, the land of salvation, you will never get tired of majestic forts and age-old temples.  And when it comes to cuisines – you will be spoilt for choices while travelling within India.

Retirement presents you with an excellent opportunity to lead a life of endless possibilities – from trying your hand at something new to going on impromptu trips. However, to enjoy your retirement years to the fullest, you need to create a plan that will help you meet your retirement goals. As one of the best rated senior living communities, we share with you some of the best tips for a healthy and fulfilling retirement: Start planning your finances early: You need to be careful about your investment planning so that you can enjoy the sunset years without having to worry too much about your finances. Your investment strategy for retirement will depend on how far away retirement is for you. Many people often make investment mistakes like not having a diverse portfolio, saving without any goals, and not considering the effect of inflation on their investment returns. To avoid such mistakes, you can take professional help. Also, it is important to keep monitoring your current investment plan. Focus on your health: By focusing on your health from early on you can avoid some of the age-related illnesses. Healthy eating habits and physical activity can help you maintain ideal body weight and feel more energetic. Go for regular health checkups to keep a tab on your physical and cognitive health. By spotting risk factors for certain diseases, you can take early precautions Make a wish list of activities: After retirement, with so much time at hand, you may struggle to find ways to spend your time in meaningful ways. One of the best ways to get the most out of your golden years is to create a wish list of things you always wanted to do. Learning a new language, playing a musical instrument, or travelling – there is a lot you can do to make your retirement years fun and fulfilling. Think positively about ageing: Ageing is inevitable whether you like it or not. However, how you perceive it will define the quality of your life. A positive attitude about ageing can have a positive effect on your physical and mental health. Start searching for a retirement home early on: Many people choose to live in senior living communities as the move gives them reassurance and peace of mind and helps them enjoy an independent, happy, and fulfilling retirement. Some of the best senior living communities such as ours offer a worry-free lifestyle. When you decide to move to a senior living community, you leave your worries about housekeeping and property maintenance behind. Choosing a retirement home is a long-term commitment, it is best to start your search early so that you can weigh all available options. Read More – Retirement Planning 6 tips For A Successful Retirement

As people age their body and lifestyle change, they are more likely to suffer from various health conditions and the risk of cardiovascular diseases increase as one ages. However, there is a lot that can be done to keep your heart young and healthy. Right diet and regular physical activity are keys to good heart health at any age. As one of the best rated senior living communities in India, we have curated some useful tips on heart-healthy ageing: Following an active lifestyle: Regular moderate-intensity physical activity improves a senior’s health in many ways – it reduces their risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, helps them maintain a healthy weight and improves their strength, flexibility, and balance. To encourage senior residents to follow an active lifestyle, some of the best rated senior living communities such as ours have gyms, jogging tracks, swimming pools and facilities for indoor and outdoor games. At our senior living community facilities, we have fully equipped gyms with cardiovascular and strength training equipment. In all our communities, there are open spaces for residents to walk and jog. Residents can participate in stretching exercises, yoga sessions and aerobic classes. Eating a balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight: When it comes to cardiovascular health, what you eat matters the most. At our senior living communities, we make sure that the menu is designed under the supervision of a dietician and it incorporates a variety of plant foods. As per a study conducted by the American Gut Project, respondents who ate at least 30 different types of plant foods in a week – from vegetables and fruits to nuts and legumes—had the most diverse gut microbiome which is often associated with good health. Keeping an eye on the important health markers: To keep your heart healthy, you should measure and track important health markers like your blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels. Some of the best rated senior living communities ensure that their residents undergo regular health screening for early detection and treatment. At Columbia Pacific Communities, we are proactive about preventive healthcare – we offer comprehensive geriatric assessment and supportive care. There are regular health checkups, and the medical records of residents are well-maintained and properly updated so that the right care can be provided should the need arise. Getting rid of negative thoughts: Depression, anxiety and other emotional issues can take a toll on your heart health. For many elderly residents, socialising with like-minded people is the ultimate stress reliever. It helps seniors get rid of any kind of negative thoughts and anxiety. At our senior living communities, we follow an active social calendar where residents can take part in yoga classes, workshops, and different types of indoor and outdoor activities. There are clubs and groups for just about everything, from book clubs to music clubs and walking groups. Make an appointment to visit one of our community living facilities and speak to our team – they will be able to tell you more about living in Columbia Pacific Communities. Give us a call on +91 8884555554 to schedule a visit. Read More – Happiness Tips for Seniors Living in Community Living Facility

Ageing comes with life changes that are often difficult to cope with. Certain life events may lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness among seniors. Here are a few things that best rated senior living communities are doing to make residents feel more positive about themselves:       1.Vibrant community spaces: As people age, it can get difficult to maintain close relationships with old friends because of many constraints. To address that, some of the best rated senior living communities like ours have designed vibrant common areas where residents can easily strike a conversation and bond over food. Our clubhouses act like the axis of the community where the residents can discover new hobbies and interests and meet new people. The dining halls are spacious where residents can catch up with each other.     2.Health and wellness programs: Being physically active is not just good for physical health but it can also improve the mental well-being. Regular exercising helps the body release hormones that reduce stress and boost overall mood. Some of the best senior living communities take a holistic approach towards physical, mental and emotional well-being. We are proactive about preventive health care. Vital parameters of our residents are monitored periodically, along with regular health screening. The wellness centre has fitness instructors under whose guidance the residents exercise. Well-equipped gyms have trained and experienced staff to help.     3.Activity calendars: Being a part of a community helps boost self-confidence and raise self-esteem. Community events present a great opportunity for seniors to form new friendships, learn new skills, and be a part of something that interests them. Our activity calendar at Columbia Pacific Communities offers a wide array of activities including yoga, meditation, group exercise, music and movie screening, educational workshops, and outings.      Spend your golden years the way you desire. Our retirement communities offer an array of unmatched senior-friendly amenities that are focused on physical, mental and emotional well-being of the residents.     

Retirement is an exciting phase of life that many look forward to. As you age, you may plan to move into a senior citizen living community. With children and grandchildren busy with their own schedule, spending time in open spaces among people your own age and doing things you love the most are some of the perks of staying in senior living communities. While there are so many choices, it’s important to do your homework and choose one that is among the best rated senior living communities in India. Here is a checklist that will help you select the senior living community that meets your needs: The right level of health care: When it comes to selecting a senior living community, perhaps the most important factor is the kind of health care that is provided. Many best rated senior living communities like ours provide screening, assessment, and consultation from visiting doctors. There is a dedicated 24×7 ambulance service on the premises. There is round-the-clock care from qualified nurses. Medical records are maintained and kept in-house to help with your diet and wellness plans. For us, your health is top priority which is why we have partnered with the nearest hospitals for all your health needs. 24×7 security: The very idea of buying a retirement cottage in the mountains sounds good but not practical. With age, the need for security increases. Look for secure senior living communities. The best rated senior living communities encourage keeping security as unobtrusive as possible to offer a home-like atmosphere and yet maintaining a secure environment for the residents. At our senior living communities, we use cutting-edge technology to keep safety, security and privacy of our residents uncompromised. Amenities: Though amenities vary from one community to another, it is important to ensure that the ones you need the most are available. Housekeeping, laundry and concierge are some of the basic facilities that the best rated senior living communities provide. At our senior living communities, we offer spacious outdoor areas, gym equipped with state-of-the-art cardiovascular and strength-training equipment, aerobics, and a calm yoga deck, libraries, games and movie theatres. You can host a private screening of your favourite movie, host parties and more in our banquet halls. There are business centres where you can hold meetings. Recreational activities: From activities focussing on physical fitness to organising daily activities, most senior living communities have a busy activity calendar. Educational lectures and workshops, physical activities such as yoga and fitness classes, music concerts and movie screenings are some of the regular activities that we conduct.