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Senior Activities in Buckhead

Sara Blakely. Tyler Perry. Kevin O’Leary. One is the founder of SPANX, and the youngest female self-made billionaire in the world. One is an entertainment icon. One is a popular member of the “Shark Tank” team. So why would their names be linked? In case it is not immediately obvious, the tie that binds them is, wait for it…Buckhead, Georgia. Blakely is a Buckhead native whose corporate headquarters is located in Shops Buckhead Atlanta. Perry sold his Buckhead estate for 17.5 million, a new Buckhead high. And Kevin – Mr. Wonderful – O’Leary used to hang out in Buckhead as a kid and it’s one of his favorite places. Located just under an hour outside of the city, Buckhead is officially designated as a suburb of Atlanta. But, from chic shops to divine dining to historic landmarks, it’s clear this gem of a community is actually Atlanta’s secret sauce. In fact, many of the best senior activities in Atlanta are actually in Buckhead. Check out these things to do in Buckhead, Atlanta. Legoland Discovery Center Nestled in the heart of Buckhead at Phipps Plaza, LEGOLAND features 4D cinema, interactive rides, a build and test center for race cars, and a Master Builder Academy where devotees can build with experts. Your grandkids will go crazy here, but don’t think for a moment this is an attraction just for the little ones. The third Thursday of every month is Adult Night. The munchkins are politely asked to stay home while the grownups discover and explore. Chastain Memorial Park Buckhead is home to Chastain Memorial Park, Atlanta’s largest city park. Its 260 acres include jogging paths, playgrounds, a swimming pool, tennis courts, a golf course, and even an equestrian area. The park is also home to the Chastain Arts Center, which offers year-round programming. One of the park's highlights is the amphitheater which boasts outdoor entertainment all summer long. Grab a friend or paramour, pack a picnic dinner, and enjoy the long list of headliners under the stars. Atlanta History Center When looking for future things to do in Buckhead, just look to the past. It’s easy to spend an entire day exploring the Atlanta History Center. Stroll through 33 acres of manicured gardens, award-winning exhibitions – including memorabilia from the 1996 Olympics. There are also historic houses to explore, including the Swan House which was featured as President Snow’s Palace in the “Hunger Games” movies. Lenox Square and Phipps Plaza Ask anyone for their favorite senior activities in Atlanta, and they will point you in the direction of these Buckhead landmarks. With luxury shopping, green spaces for hanging out, Nobu, a world-class culinary market, Lenox Square, and Phipps Plaza are community magnets. Whether you are looking for a little retail therapy – choose from over 350 iconic brands – or just want to go for a stroll and grab a bite, these are the places to see and be seen. Book a tour today at Buckhead South, or Powers Ferry, Overture’s premium 55+ communities in Atlanta. Become part of the Overture community - and the Buckhead community. As Mr. Wonderful said, Buckhead is a “helluva place."

6 Top Reasons to Retire to North Carolina

So, have you been wracking your brain to figure out what the Venus Fly Trap, Krispy Kreme and great tax breaks have in common? Well,...mystery solved. They are all indigenous to North Carolina and just three on an impressive list of attractions drawing more and more seniors to the Tar Heel state—though perhaps not necessarily in that order. Throw in moderate temperatures with an average of 213 sunny days annually and small wonder retirees are flocking to North Carolina’s active adult communities. Now that you’re ready to rightsize and embrace the active adult life, North Carolina may check all your boxes. Why Retire in North Carolina? Taxes, Taxes, Taxes 2013 saw the passage of some very tax-friendly legislation in North Carolina. For example, Social Security income is now exempt from state income tax, a provision that directly impacts retirees. The sweeping changes also lowered income taxes to a flat rate and did away with estate taxes altogether. In January of 2017, corporate taxes were lowered to 3%, spelling promise for seniors looking to create a second act. Consider the fact that property taxes for retirees in North Carolina are also low and the numbers are making seniors smile. A State with a View North Carolina is a hiker’s paradise, but you don’t have to endure the Appalachian Trail to take advantage of three mountain ranges worth of exquisite scenery. From the Great Smokies, to the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Appalachians, the mountains of North Carolina boast stunning waterfalls, towering trees, and tons of wildlife, not to mention some of America’s best craft beer. There are resorts spread throughout the mountain regions offering the gamut of summer and winter outdoor pursuits. A Day at the Beach The shores of the Outer Banks may be North Carolina’s most famous beaches but they are hardly the only choice. The state’s coastline is filled with more than 300 miles of beautiful beaches, each with its own distinct vibe. Many have the added attraction of bordering a quaint coastal town. Explore the coast until you find the beach you want to call your own. Blasts from the Past History buffs will be drawn to Civil War sites and other interactive memorials commemorating North Carolina’s colorful past. When you need a break from the mountains and the sea, there is much to explore, including the Fort Raleigh National Historical Site which examines the mysterious plight of the Lost Colony of Roanoke Island. Some Serious BBQ There’s barbecue sauce, and there’s North Carolina Barbecue Sauce, not to be confused with any other. Dedicated BBQ aficionados will gladly point you to certified, authentic North Carolina barbecue sauce so you can truly feel at home. Best Places to Retire in North Carolina Overture’s North Carolina communities offer our signature turnkey stress-free lifestyle, enhanced by the backdrop of the Tar Heel state’s unmatched natural beauty . Centennial and Crabtree in Raleigh, Cary in Morrisville, and Chapel Hill in Chapel Hill are some of the best active retirement communities in North Carolina, environments created for the sole purpose of supporting your exciting active adult lifestyle. Whether looking for a financial equation that adds up, longing for regular access to world-class beaches, or just craving a Krispy Kreme, North Carolina may be the active adult living destination with your name on it.

Where to Find the Best At-Home Workouts for Older Active Adults

When we couldn’t go to the gym, we found creative ways to exercise. Sidewalks were filled with walkers and bikers, and the virtual exercise market, well, it virtually exploded, offering an eclectic assortment of home exercise programs geared to all levels and interests. Now that we’re no longer under house arrest, many have decided there’s no place like home for a great workout. Whether you want to freshen up your daily exercise routine or start a brand new workout regimen, there is an at-home workout program just waiting for you to click “start!” Here are a few popular sites to consider. Alo Moves When it comes to exercise for seniors at home, Alo Moves is the perfect place to start. Catering to all levels of fitness, Alo Moves offers thousands of different workout options. Choose from beginner, moderate, intermediate, or advanced classes in yoga and all types of fitness to achieve your workout goals. You can download the routines so you can take your workout outdoors, and you can take advantage of the free 2-week trial. After that, the cost is $20 per month. P.Volve For easy exercises at home try, P.Volve fitness. The P.Volve combines high intensity with low impact by using resistance-based exercises to help build functional strength. Members have access to more than 200 workouts with new routines added weekly. The cost is $20 per month or $135 for a yearly membership. Obe Fitness Besides unlimited access to both life and on-demand fitness classes, Obe Fitness has the added feature of recommending classes based on your fitness level and experience. There are 100 live classes per week and signature 28-minute workouts designed to fit into your schedule. The cost is $27 per month and $200 per year. PiYo Recommended for those with joint issues, PiYo combines the best of yoga and pilates to increase strength and flexibility. It’s a low-impact workout done faster than normal yoga and pilates to add cardio benefits. This program is offered through beachbondyondemand.com. The cost structure is $39 for three months, $59 for six months, and $99 for a year-long membership. Love Sweat Fitness Aimed primarily at women, Love Sweat Fitness is an 8-week cardio and strength at-home exercise program designed to accommodate every fitness level. The workouts are straightforward and fun, and the program comes with an exercise encyclopedia that outlines the proper form of each move. The cost to join is $50. Be sure to accurately assess your fitness level before embarking on any new program. Start slowly at first and modify any movements that are too advanced for you. As you gain more strength and flexibility, you can increase the intensity of your workouts accordingly. It’s good to watch a sample class before joining any virtual program to make sure it is a good fit for your condition and goals. Once you choose a program, all you have to do is get off the couch! Ready, set, sweat!

29 Essential Documents to Have in Order for Aging Parents

Seems like only yesterday your parents were up to their elbows in your Pampers. Now it’s your turn at the changing table. Aging parents and small children. Welcome to the sandwich generation. As you begin to realize the importance of creating a legacy for your own children, it may have already dawned on you to have a conversation with Mom and Dad about the state of their affairs. Keep in mind this talk may be about as welcome as “the talk” you were forced to endure as a teen. The subject of wills and estates is like the elephant in the room. It’s big, scary, and imposing—and nobody wants to discuss it. But, taking stock and getting organized now means avoiding legal battles and hassles down the road. Once all the necessary papers are signed, sealed, and delivered, your parents can get back to the business of enjoying active adult life. Important Legal Documents for Seniors You will want to include financial , healthcare, and estate planning documents on any checklist for aging parents. These documents exist to protect your parent’s rights and make their present and future wishes clear. Financial Documents: • A list of all bank accounts • Pension documents, 401(k) information, and annuity contracts • Tax returns • Savings bonds, stock certificates, or brokerage accounts • Partnership and corporate operating agreements • Deeds to all properties • Vehicle titles • Documentation of loans and debts, including all credit accounts • Financial Power of Attorney Medical Documents: • Living Will: This end-of-life paperwork, also known as an advanced health directive, clearly and specifically outlines a senior’s preferences regarding issues like life support, organ donation. • Health care proxy or power of attorney • Authorization to release health care information • Personal medical history • Insurance card (Medicare, Medicaid, Independent) • Long-term care insurance policy Estate Planning Documents • A will • Trust documents • Life-insurance policies • End-of-life instructions letter to include anything not covered in the will. • Actions letter to include any wishes not stated in the will. Often this letter includes instructions for the memorial. Other Pertinent Documents • Marriage papers • Divorce papers • List of online usernames and passwords • List of safe deposit boxes and the location of their keys • Military records • Birth certificate • Driver’s license • Social Security card • Passport Easy Access is Important Kudos if you and your parents have already started working on an end-of-life checklist. Once you’ve accumulated all the necessary paperwork, make sure it is in a safe, secure, easily accessible place. It’s also important to keep all documents up to date, making changes when necessary. It’s never too soon to sit down and make a legal checklist for aging parents. These legal documents for seniors can lighten the burden of a difficult time. Being organized is the ultimate act of love and makes it easier, and less stressful to pass on the rewards of a life well spent.

Décor Tips to Warm Your Home This Winter

As we get ready to hunker down this particular winter, creating a living space that is warm-both literally and figuratively-is more important than ever. Fortunately, there are plenty of easy, creative apartment decorating tips that will keep you cozy as you hibernate. How to Make Your Home Cozy Turn Up the Heat in Bed As much as that sounds romantic, the real secret is swapping out your airy summer bedding for something more substantial. You can pile on the heavier blankets or you can create a warm inviting cocoon by investing in a good wool mattress pad that provides insulation in the winter and wicks moisture in the summer. Flannel or microfiber sheets will add an extra layer of warmth, and in more severe climates, a down comforter will seal the toasty deal. Here Comes the Fuzz Nothing warms up a living room like fuzzy accessories. Cool pillows and throws add colorful accents and huge amounts of snuggle factor to the décor. Cure the Winter Blues with Greenery We may not be able to enjoy Mother Nature’s gifts outdoors right now, but we can certainly bring them inside. Green plants go a long way toward warming up the ambiance while winter’s winds blow. Warm the Windows Heavier window treatments can be a key element in keeping the winter cold at bay. The lighter shades that work to insulate in the summer may need a little extra support to keep things cozy. Fabric curtains or honeycomb shades are good options. Say it With Candles The days are short, and the nights are long. Why not add some mood lighting with candles? Scented or unscented, candles create a warm, inviting ambiance that will take the edge off the winter blahs. Hot Cocoa Anyone? Hot drinks are a winter staple. Whether you are a tea drinker, love your coffee, or can’t resist hot chocolate with whipped cream, you will need a special mug to drink from. Get a set of hooks and your cool mug collection can serve the dual purpose of holding your favorite steaming beverage and adding a fun accent to the kitchen. Floor Décor Those floors that are so delightfully cool in summer can be seriously frosty and unappealing in the winter. Treat your feet to strategically placed area rugs. Be sure not to ignore the bathroom floor. When the temperature dips below freezing, your feet will thank you! Generate Heat with Heaters If you have areas of your apartment that tend to get particularly drafty in winter, you might want to plug in a space heater. Be sure to choose a model that shuts off automatically if overheated. Snuggle up in a comfy throw, fire up the scented candles, grab your favorite cuppa, and enjoy the winter from your cozy Overture active adult apartment. Hopefully, a few simple home decorating tips can help warm your home and your mood in the coming months.

The Ultimate Reading List for Older Adults

Buckle up. You’re about to enter a world of unlimited possibilities, where time and place have no boundaries. Explore outer space, relive a piece of history, leap forward into a utopian—or dystopian—future, or become embroiled in a steamy romance. The choice is yours and yours alone. All it takes is a good book. Books are our passport to the universe. But while there is nothing like a real page-turner to enlighten, lift the spirits, and spark the imagination, reading is so much more than an entertaining pastime. As we age, books can be a powerful tool to keep us sharp and engaged. Studies show reading can improve your quality of life by : · increasing mental stimulation · slowing the onset of dementia · reducing stress · supporting social skills · improving reasoning, vocabulary, critical thinking, sleep, memory, and concentration Check out a few of these popular books for seniors. Maybe one will be the ticket to your next reading adventure. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah Kristen Hannah’s World War II drama brings history to life through the eyes of two sisters. Her writing style is fluid and immersive. You’ll be sad when it’s over. The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot This novel handily merges science with human drama as Rebecca Skloot chronicles the medical journey of Henrietta Lacks, a poor tobacco farmer whose cells, taken without her knowledge or consent, became a cornerstone of medical research. Though non-fiction, it reads like a novel you can’t put down while educating the reader about an intriguing and, at times, disturbing episode in the history of medicine. The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair that Changed America by Erik Larson Erik Larsen has the extraordinary gift of freezing a moment in history and extracting its essence, giving it context and perspective while weaving a brilliant story. The Devil in the White City pivots on the Chicago World’s Fair while focusing on the parallel lives of the architect who designed it and the serial killer who haunted it. There are fascinating facts on every page. The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes The Giver of Stars is a work of fiction crafted around Eleanor Roosevelt’s innovative pack mule library in Appalachia during the depression. The story mingles romance, history, and the power of women. It is both entertaining and informative. The Murmur of Bees by Sofia Segovia If you like Spanish mysticism, this work of fiction will take you on a magical journey. Spanning generations, it’s the saga of a family in Mexico and an adopted child who changes the course of all their lives. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides Alex Michaelides has created a murder mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat all the way through. It twists and turns and is guaranteed to surprise. A Long Petal of the Sea by Isabel Allende Prolific Chilean author Isabel Allende has produced another novel that spans continents, connecting the history and politics of Spain and Chile. Peppered with romance and intrigue, this novel has it all. The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared by Jonas Jonasson Awaiting his hundredth birthday party, Allan Karlsson decides to make a run for it. He climbs out the window and embarks on an adventure where he has noteworthy escapades while looking back on a life well-lived. A perfect novel for the young at heart. Prime of Life by P.D. Bekendam How fitting that on the list of best books to read after retirement is a book about a man who’s retired. Prime of Life is the story of a janitor at a senior living community who is not exactly what he appears to be. Plenty of humor and eccentric characters make this a fun read. The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Olympic Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics by Daniel James Brown If you liked Unbroken and Seabiscuit by Laura Hillenbrand, you would love this dramatic depiction of the American team that rowed its way into the history books at Hitler’s 1936 Berlin Olympics. Using the young men’s diaries and journals, Brown shares a remarkable story of hope in dire times, Though today’s older adults are the generation of book lovers who loved actual books, there is something to be said for all the enhanced reading options available through the magic of technology. Read on your Kindle or Ipad, and adjust the print size to your comfort level. Or pull up a chaise, close your eyes and listen to a great read on audiobooks or Amazon audible. No matter how you choose to enjoy your reading experience, elevate its benefits to a higher level by joining a book club. As active adults in selected Overture communities are finding, nothing checks the boxes for social, emotional, and intellectual stimulation like getting together for a book discussion. Whether you go for classic feel-good books, easy reading books, or even short stories for seniors, a good book and good friends add up to a regular event you won’t want to miss. And that’s non-fiction.