Whether mom, grandma, aunt, or other special lady in your life, spending time with the ones you love is even better when you find just the right venue. Fortunately, McKinney, Texas is home to a number of great places to spend time together. Our community members at Village on the Park McKinney have shared some of their favorite local gems perfect for spending time with the special women in your life.

Our Resident Recommendations Near McKinney

Whether you’re enjoying a delicious pie or relaxing in nature, McKinney is a great place to spend a memorable day and Live Life Well with mom. 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 McKinney with your family. Interested in learning about social connection and fun activities available every day at Village on the Park McKinney? Contact us to schedule a tour!

Could the answer to a longer existence be simpler than you currently believe? Spanning from the sun-drenched hills of Sardinia to the tranquil shores of Okinawa, five distinct global locations—known 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?

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

Despite the geographical dispersion of blue zone communities, Buettner and his team discovered nine shared characteristics among these populations that contribute to Living Life Well.

Want to know 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 Village on the Park McKinney.

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, having 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 Village on the Park McKinney, 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 Village on the Park McKinney.

Connect

  1. “Positive Pack” – Establishing a supportive social circle can reinforce healthy behaviors that enable you to Live Life Well. Village on the Park McKinney 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 Village on the Park McKinney, our focus is on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment 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 Village on the Park McKinney inspired by this remarkable island.

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

The arrival of spring brings abundant chances to Live Life Well, notably through increased daylight hours. The sun’s effect on our bodies is truly substantial.

The Science of Sunlight

Vitamin D Production

Perhaps its most recognized advantage, sunlight initiates Vitamin D synthesis within the skin. This crucial vitamin aids in calcium absorption, fundamental for maintaining bone strength and preventing osteoporosis. As we age, our bodies’ capacity to generate Vitamin D lessens, making sun exposure increasingly significant. The Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation indicates approximately 54 million Americans have osteoporosis and low bone mass, underscoring Vitamin D’s intake importance.

Mood Enhancement

Mood Elevation

Sunlight boosts serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and promotes feelings of happiness and contentness.This can be especially advantageous for older adults who might experience seasonal affective disorder, depression, or related mood difficulties.

Enhanced Sleep Patterns

Sunlight helps regulate our circadian rhythm, the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. Daylight exposure during the day can improve nighttime sleep quality. This is particularly important for seniors, as sleep habits can alter with age.

Improved Immune Function:

Sunlight is key for bolstering immune defenses. Vitamin D’s role in supporting the immune system is well-known; however, research from Georgetown University Medical Center  also indicates that sunlight, through a separate mechanism independent of vitamin D production, energizes T cells, which are crucial for immunity. Maintaining a healthy immune system is vital for seniors to resist illness and sustain overall health.

Cognitive Advantages:

The National Institute of Health suggests Vitamin D can lessen the risk of cognitive decline Adequate sun exposure, and thus sufficient vitamin D, can contribute to preserving mental acuity.

Enjoying Sunlight at Village on the Park McKinney

At Village on the Park McKinney, we prioritize designing spaces that maximize natural illumination. Our residences feature large windows and thoughtfully arranged communal areas that allow for enjoying the sun’s warmth and beautiful views.

Our beautifully landscaped outdoor spaces and activities encourage walks with neighbors, outdoor social gatherings, or relaxing with a book while basking in the sun. Additionally, we organize trips to local McKinney parks and scenic off-campus locations.

Safe Sun Exposure Practices

While sunlight’s benefits are substantial, practicing safe sun exposure is crucial. We advise:

Enhancing Well-Being: Utilizing Sunlight’s Benefits

At Village on the Park McKinney, we are dedicated to providing a lifestyle that supports comprehensive wellness. By leveraging the straightforward yet powerful advantages of sunlight, you can improve 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.