Looking for the perfect place to spend time with mom or grandma? Finding plans that will appeal to her interests and facilitate quality time together can require a bit of homework. Our community members at Wood Glen Court have shared some of their favorite local gems perfect for spending time with the special women in your life.

Our Resident Recommendations Near Spring

Whether you’re walking through a historic village or relaxing with great music, Spring is the perfect place to spend a memorable day with mom and Live Life Well. 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 Wood Glen Court with your family. Interested in learning about social connection and fun activities available every day at Wood Glen Court in Spring, Texas? Contact us to schedule a tour!

Consider if the answer to a longer existence was simpler than your current understanding. Spanning from the sun-kissed hills of Sardinia to the tranquil shores of Okinawa, five distinct global locations—recognized as the Blue Zones—demonstrate that individuals not only achieve greater longevity but also Live Life Well, experiencing vitality, purpose, and happiness extending well into their nineties and beyond.

What exactly defines these Blue Zones?

 In 2004, The Blue Zones were initially pinpointed through the collaborative efforts of Dan Buettner, National Geographic, the National Institute on Aging, and the leading longevity experts worldwide. In these regions, individuals celebrate 100th birthdays at a rate 10x greater  than in the United States. They also maintain their vitality well into their nineties and beyond, enjoying active and fulfilling lives.

Although blue zone communities are located across the globe, Buettner’s team discovered nine common traits shared by these individuals that contribute to Living Life Well. 

Curious how they do it? We’ve identified nine surprisingly straightforward daily routines prevalent in these long-living communities—and how you can integrate them into your own lifestyle, especially here at Wood Glen Court.

Spoiler alert: It’s not about trendy diets or endless workouts…it’s about community, meaning, and equilibrium.

Activity

  1. “Move Naturally” – Consistent daily movement is an organic part of life in these areas. You can make it a more inherent aspect of your routine by using the stairs, choosing to walk or bike instead of driving, and engaging in gardening.

Outlook

  1. “Purpose” – According to the Blue Zone Project, a sense of purpose is worth up to seven years of extra life expectancy! This can be your family, a volunteer role, or a hobby you are passionate about.
  2. “Down Shift” – While stress is a universal experience, regardless of location, it’s crucial to establish daily practices that assist in alleviating your stress. At Wood Glen Court, we provide guided meditation, yoga sessions, or serene spaces for unwinding.

Eating

  1. “80% Rule” – Consuming food until you are 80% full rather than 100% can significantly benefit your health.
  2. “Plant Slant” – Instead of meat being the primary source of protein, beans are central to the dietary patterns in The Blue Zones. Explore new recipes featuring fava, black, soy, and lentil beans to incorporate into your diet.
  3. “Wine at 5” – Individuals in the Blue Zones consume alcohol in moderation, typically one to two glasses per day with friends and meals. Happy hours are a resident favorite here at Wood Glen Court.

Connect

  1. “Positive Pack” – Establishing a supportive social circle can reinforce healthy behaviors that enable you to Live Life Well.  Wood Glen Court cultivates a strong sense of community through regular social gatherings and activities.
  2. “Loved Ones First” – Prioritize spending quality time with your spouse, children, and grandchildren. We offer ideal settings and opportunities for residents to connect with family.
  3. “Belong” – A feeling of belonging is vital for overall well-being. At Wood Glen Court, our focus is on creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where every resident feels valued and connected.

Passport to Adventure: Lessons from Ikaria, Greece

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 turn our attention to Ikaria, Greece, one of the Blue Zones! Our residents will enjoy a variety of enriching activities here at Wood Glen Court inspired by this remarkable island.

Interested in joining the excitement of our Monthly Passport to Adventure destinations? Schedule a tour!

With spring’s arrival comes a plethora of opportunities to Live Life Well, notably via extended daylight. It’s more than a feeling; The impact of the sun on our bodies is demonstrably profound.

The Science of Sunlight

Vitamin D Genesis:

Maybe its most recognized asset, sunlight initiates Vitamin D production. This crucial vitamin facilitates calcium assimilation, vital for maintaining bone integrity and thwarting osteoporosis. As individuals advance in age, their capacity to produce Vitamin D diminishes, thus amplifying the significance of sun exposure. The Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation indicates approximately 54 million Americans have osteoporosis and low bone mass, thereby underscoring the relevance of Vitamin D intake.

Emotional Uplift:

Sunlight boosts serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and promotes feelings of happiness and well-being. This can prove especially advantageous for older adults susceptible to seasonal affective disorder, depression, or analogous emotional challenges.

Sleep Cycle Regulation:

Sunlight helps regulate our circadian rhythm, the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Sunlight exposure can optimize nocturnal sleep quality. This is particularly essential for seniors, whose sleep patterns may undergo alterations with age.

Immune System Fortification:

Sunlight is instrumental in bolstering immune defenses. While Vitamin D’s role in immune support is well-established, research from Georgetown University Medical Center also reveals that sunlight, via a mechanism distinct from vitamin D production, energizes T cells, which are important for immunity. Maintaining a healthy immune system is crucial for seniors to resist illness and sustain overall health.

Cognitive Advantages:

The National Institute of Health posits that Vitamin D can reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Adequate sun exposure, and consequently sufficient vitamin D, may contribute to preserving mental acuity.

Enjoying The Sun at Wood Glen Court

At Wood Glen Court, we prioritize crafting spaces that optimize natural illumination. Our residences feature expansive windows and thoughtfully arranged communal zones that facilitate enjoying the sun’s warmth and scenic panoramas.

Our beautifully landscaped outdoor environments and activities encourage walks with neighbors, outdoor social gatherings, or relaxing with a book while basking in the sun. Furthermore, we organize excursions to local Houston parks and scenic off-campus locales.

Safe Sun Exposure Protocols

While sunlight’s advantages are substantial, adhering to safe sun exposure protocols is vital. We recommend:

Enhancing Well-Being

At Wood Glen Court, we are dedicated to providing a lifestyle that promotes comprehensive well-being. By harnessing the straightforward yet potent advantages of sunlight, you can elevate your physical, mental, and emotional health. We invite you to experience the warmth and vitality of our community, where each day presents an opportunity to Live Life Well.

Experience the beauty of spring with us! Arrange a tour.

Banish the winter doldrums and embrace the fun and friendship of social connections! Wood Glen Court offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy cozy comforts and stimulating indoor activities during the winter months.

Game Night: 

Gather your friends and neighbors for an exciting game of cards, billiards, or bingo in our spacious common rooms. It’s the perfect spot to connect with others and enjoy some friendly competition! Here at Wood Glen Court, our residents are big fans of spades, Scrabble, and chess!

Movie Matinees:

Enjoy the latest films without having to leave the building! Our comfortable movie nights show classic movies and new releases on a regular basis.

Creative Workshops:

Whether you’re passionate about painting, knitting, scrapbooking, or other creative outlets, you’ll discover all the resources and inspiration you need!

Book Club: 

Find a good book and relax in our cozy library, stocked with a diverse collection of genres and titles. We also have a weekly book club where residents can discuss their latest reads!

Fitness Classes:

At Wood Glen Court, our residents can choose from a wide variety of fitness classes! Options include yoga, dance classes, aerobics, and more.

Ice Cream Socials + Happy Hour: 

Our residents are always happy to get together and enjoy good food! We host ice cream socials, happy hours, and a variety of themed events year-round!

Our welcoming and comfortable environment is the perfect place to create special memories, no matter what time of year it is.

See for yourself! We invite you to visit Wood Glen Court and experience the warm and lively atmosphere of our community this winter. Get in touch with us today to schedule a tour.

As we celebrate the start of a new year, it’s the perfect time to prioritize our health and well-being. Instead of setting unrealistic resolutions, let’s focus on finding what truly resonates with YOU. Here are four simple ways to foster a healthy and fulfilling year:

1. Move with Purpose

We all know that staying active is beneficial, but it should also be enjoyable! Discover fun ways to incorporate movement into your daily routine. Whether it’s a morning walk, swimming, or trying a new fitness class, find activities you love. Regular exercise helps you maintain independence, increase energy levels, and keep up with the grandkids (or great-grandkids!). Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

At Wood Glen Court , we offer a variety of fitness classes tailored to different preferences and abilities, including chair yoga, aerobics, and strength training.

2. Stimulate Your Mind

Our minds need exercise just like our bodies! Make time for activities that challenge your mind, such as reading, puzzles, games, and learning new skills.

Don’t forget the importance of social engagement. Join a book club, attend a lecture, or enjoy conversations with your neighbors. At Wood Glen Court, we have a calendar filled with stimulating activities, including clubs, classes, and game nights.

3. Make Healthy Choices

Healthy eating is a common goal, but it’s important to find an approach that works for you. Enjoy your favorite foods while focusing on making gradual, sustainable changes. Try incorporating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into your diet, and remember to stay hydrated.

At Wood Glen Court, we make it easy to eat healthy by offering delicious and nutritious meals made with fresh ingredients.

4. Unwind, Recharge, Renew

In retirement, life can get busy! Taking time for relaxation, stress management, and self-care is crucial for your overall well-being. Find activities that help you unwind and recharge, whether it’s meditation, spending time in nature, or pursuing hobbies you enjoy.

This new year, let Wood Glen Court be your partner in achieving a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle. We offer a supportive community, enriching activities, and helpful resources to support you on your journey.

Wishing you a happy, healthy, and fulfilling new year!

The holidays are a wonderful (and busy!) time of year! With family get-togethers and festive events filling our schedules, it’s important to take some time to observe how your aging parents are managing day-to-day. This period of togetherness provides a valuable opportunity to check in on their well-being and see if they might need extra help. Here are some key areas to pay attention to:

1. Taking Care of the Home:

2. Managing Daily Tasks:

3. Social and Emotional Well-being:

4. Safety:

Next Steps:

The holidays can be a time of joy and togetherness, but they can also highlight subtle signs that our aging parents might need some additional support. By being observant and proactive, you can help ensure they receive the care they need to live full and happy 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 transition! It’s a chance to embrace a simpler lifestyle, enjoy new experiences, and leave behind the worries of home maintenance. This room-by-room guide will help you pack efficiently and ensure you have everything you need for a smooth move to your new home.

Bedroom:

Bathroom:

Living Room:

Kitchen:

Tips for a Smooth Move:

Ready to experience your new home? Schedule a tour at Wood Glen Court today! We’d be delighted to show you around and answer any questions you may have about making our community your new home.

Maintaining social connections is a key to a healthy and fulfilling life as we age. Plus, it’s fun! At Wood Glen Court, we understand the importance of social interaction and have created a vibrant environment that fosters easy socialization and the development of meaningful relationships. Here are a few fun ways to stay socially connected during this chapter of life.

Get Brunch with Friends 

There’s nothing quite like enjoying your favorite breakfast treats with your favorite people! Our residents can savor chef-prepared meals right here at Wood Glen Court. They appreciate having wonderful company to share the experience with too – whether it’s with their fellow residents or by inviting friends and family to join them!

Take a Class

Participating in a class is a fantastic 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 Wood Glen Court residents.

Enjoy Game Night

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, get a group together to work on a puzzle!

Dive into Literature with Book Club

Are you passionate about 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 key 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 Wood Glen Court, we offer a wide range of social activities and events designed to cater to diverse interests and cultivate a sense of belonging. 

Interested in learning more about life at Wood Glen Court? Schedule a tour and see the joys of a socially fulfilling lifestyle!

We understand that transitioning your parents to assisted living can bring about mixed emotions. At Wood Glen Court, we’re dedicated to making positive and enriching experiences for both residents and their families. Our community is not just a residence, it’s a place where families come together to enjoy life’s joys. With a wide range of amenities and activities, there are endless opportunities to connect and have fun with your mom or dad.

3 Family-Favorite Activities at Wood Glen Court:

Choosing assisted living for your parent can enhance your family visits! With daily chores and errands taken care of, you can focus on making meaningful memories and enjoying each other’s company. Ready to discover the difference assisted living can make? Schedule a tour of Wood Glen Court to experience it firsthand.

If you’re thinking about moving to a senior living community but are concerned about downsizing, don’t worry! Downsizing may seem daunting, but with the right strategy and mindset, it can be a smooth process. Remember to consider the sentimental value, quantity, and practicality of your belongings when deciding what to keep. Check out these tips for getting organized before your move. It’s time for Spring Cleaning!

Picture your Dream Space and Lifestyle 

Sometimes, a little bit of motivation is needed to initiate the organizing process. Your personal goals can offer the ideal source of inspiration. Whether it’s minimizing household responsibilities or expanding social connections, concentrating on the aspects of senior living that will spark joy can help you find the motivation to start organizing.

It’s exciting to imagine the design of your new home and it can help you decide on the furniture you want to keep. We can help you plan the layout of your furniture at Wood Glen Court. This will help with the process!

Tip: It’s easier to downsize if you begin with a clean slate and adding in what you truly want and need, rather than sorting through everything at once.

See What Works

Downsizing can be approached in various ways. It is important to find the most effective strategy for yourself! Identify the time of day when you are most inspired. If you are an early riser, you may find it beneficial to allocate some time in the morning for organizing. Another option is to play music to maintain your energy levels throughout the task. We recommend testing out various methods to determine which organization mode you prefer!

TIp: Organize your downsizing efforts by scheduling specific dates and times to work on it. And don’t forget to take breaks! Adhering to this schedule will help you maintain productivity.

Add Check Marks To Your To-Do List

For those who are task-driven, this packing technique is just what you need! It is best to tackle one area or room at a time to ensure maximum efficiency. This way, you can experience a sense of fulfillment every time you complete organizing a packed closet or messy desk. Adding check marks to your to-do list is always a gratifying experience!

Organize into Multiple Piles 

We recognize the sentimental attachment you may have to your belongings, making it challenging to let go of them. Our suggestion is to organize your items into four distinct piles to make sure each one is utilized in a meaningful way:

Tip: If you haven’t used something in the past year, it is a good indicator that you won’t need it in the following year either.

Get Labeling 

As you pack, be sure to label each box with the items inside and the designated room it belongs in. This simple step will streamline the unpacking process by indicating what should be unpacked first and making it easy to locate your belongings. 

Tip: Prior to moving day, prepare a designated box called “Right Away” for immediate essentials like glasses, medications, and chargers that you will require shortly after moving.

Don’t be intimidated by the idea of downsizing – with these helpful tips, the process can be more manageable. Downsizing can lead to decreased clutter, less stress in maintaining your home, and more fun in a senior living community.

If you have any inquiries about downsizing or are looking to design a free furniture plan, our team is ready to provide support.