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Perhaps we owe it to the ancient Greeks and their Festival of Dionysus, which ushered in ‘spring break’ as it were, a time to celebrate the arrival of spring, fertility, and of course great wine. Fast forwarding to the mid-1930s, Florida’s temperate climate gave birth to an idea that American college swim coaches latched on to in droves—winter swim training was much better in Florida than the frigid Northeast! And since swimming can’t be done 24-hours a day, those athletes figured out that Florida was also a swell place to party, and relax! And every decade since, the young, old, and every age in between have been flocking to the sunny, paradisiacal, white-sand beaches of Florida’s Gulf Coast, from sunny Sarasota to the Keys and beyond.
But you don’t have to be a seasonal ‘spring-breaker’ to enjoy all Florida has to offer because you’re a senior adult who’s earned the right to do what you please, when you please, and as such, Florida is ready to welcome you 365 days per year!
Senior living should be done right, after all, you’ve put in the work and earned your ticket. You’ve spent decades giving to others, so you’ve earned that ticket to paradise, and that’s… senior living done right—the experience of a lifetime in sunny Sarasota!
The benefits of living in Sarasota Florida for seniors are many. So, let’s dig into some of the best.
There’s something about a white-sandy beach, the sound of rolling waves, pinkish purple skies, and that salty smell of the water as it shuffles over your toes on an evening walk down the coastline. It’s an undeniably joyous experience for nearly everyone. Perhaps even old Ebenezer Scrooge himself might’ve cracked a smile if the Sarasota beach sun hit him just right while a cool, coastal breeze graced his face.
So, when we talk about the benefits of living in Florida for seniors, the conversation has to begin with that beautiful coastline, the kiss of the gulf, beaches where troubles seem to melt away. And Sarasota has some of the best. In fact, Sarasota’s own, Siesta Key, was recently ranked #1 in U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Beaches in Florida for 2023” report featured in their “Best Vacations Rankings.” The world-famous Siesta Beach offers Sarasota seniors 8 unspoiled miles of some of the whitest sand beaches on Earth paired with clear waters that make it perfect for a stroll, a run, or just relaxing and enjoying the wondrous beauty of nature’s perfection. It is, like many of Sarasota’s beaches, a postcard view in the truest sense, indeed.
And no perfect beach experience is complete without perfect weather. Like a fine wine compliments a great fillet, Sarasota’s pleasant, year-round weather is superbly matched with its celebrated beaches. Winters in Sarasota are mild, with average lows dropping to around 53 degrees in January, the coldest month, and January highs hitting the low 70s. Summer temperatures cap around 88 degrees, which makes most of the year—quite enjoyable!
Senior living in Sarasota is done right! When you choose to live here, and take advantage of the prime perks of Sarasota’s premier senior living residence, 81 Oaks, you’ll always be ‘in-the-know’ about what’s happening in the community at large. Because at 81 Oaks, we understand that your senior years should be your best years, and that’s why we make it a priority to keep residents up-to-date on everything Sarasota has to offer, whether its events, cultural opportunities, or activities for health and wellness.
One of the many benefits of living in Florida for seniors is arts and culture. From the rich architectural splendor of Miami to central Florida’s outstanding museums, seemingly all of Florida is imbued with spectacular cultural experiences of note. But Sarasota is perhaps the most culturally-alive city of all in the great Sunshine State.
See a popular musical at the renowned Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall. Dress up for a night at the Sarasota Opera House. Enjoy one of the many great shows at Sarasota’s museums and private galleries. The arts options are limitless. With regular concerts, live theatre, the opera, ballet, museums and galleries to take in till your heart’s content, Sarasota truly puts the ‘art’ in heart!
With 8 miles of stunning, white-sand beaches, some obvious activities require nothing but a willingness to put one foot in front of the other. Walking on the beach, no matter how fast or slow you do it, is a heart-healthy activity for everyone, especially seniors. So, whether you’re a power walker, runner, or a take-your-timer, it doesn’t matter because the health benefits are built in. Just 30 minutes a day, and you’ll be on your way to a lean, healthy senior life.
Not a runner? Walking seems a bore? No problem, because in Sarasota your kayaking opportunities are plentiful. And Sarasota’s Lido Key is a popular destination for exploring the mangroves. View Florida’s diverse wildlife from a comfortable seat in your kayak, and with luck you’ll catch sight of dolphins, rays, manatees, and an assortment of Florida’s exotic birds. And just because you’re sitting down, doesn’t mean you’re not getting healthy while you do it, because paddling offers a great core workout.
Senior living in Sarasota can be a rewarding experience. In the journey of life, youth has its moments; your family years are where your heart remains; but your senior years are a time to explore, to chase dreams, and get the most out of life with family and friends. So, staying healthy is a top priority.
Sunshine has been linked to a range of health benefits, some of which are particularly important for seniors. It can improve sleep patterns, mental health, cognition all while supporting bone health, Vitamin D production and can even lower blood pressure. The Sarasota area offers year-round sunshine which can help with seasonal depression as well. So, slather on that sunscreen, stay hydrated, and start reaping the benefits.
At 81 Oaks, our restaurant-style dining features chef-prepared healthy meals and we continually evaluate our physical training programs (featuring the Osprey Fitness Center) and wellness programs to ensure that they’re the best offerings available. We pride ourselves on our ‘always exciting, always expanding’ fitness and nutrition opportunities for residents, because your good health is always on our mind.
And 81 Oaks offers coordination of various ancillary and medical services by our expert wellness director, personalized fitness plans, medication management, as well as home health providers on-site.
Additionally, Sarasota is a prime destination for quality healthcare featuring top-level hospitals, clinics, and urgent care centers for emergencies, as well as a handful of highly-respected medical facilities such as Sarasota Memorial Hospital (“nationally ranked” and “high performing”—U.S. News & World Report), HCA Florida Sarasota Doctors Hospital (“high performing”—U.S. News & World Report), and several other respected hospitals just a short drive away.
Senior living in Sarasota offers beauty, culture, great medical establishments, and healthy outdoor activities for year-round fun, plus an abundance of social activities. Of course, living in paradise is not for everyone, some like to be cold, enjoy slipping on frozen sidewalks, and paying exorbitant heating bills. But most of us would choose paradise in the Gulf Coast of Florida if we could. And you can.
Call us today at (941)278-8801 or schedule a tour online today to learn more about the benefits of senior living in Florida!
The respiratory system, like many of the other human systems (e.g., cardiovascular, digestive), is a wondrously complex and sophisticated arrangement of organs working together to maintain homeostasis.Contact an Office in Your AreaChronic obstructive pulmonary disease, more commonly referred to as COPD, is a health problem facing adults in the U.S. Because of its progressive nature and increased age as a leading factor, there is a greater prevalence of COPD in seniors. The good news is that many adults can easily reduce their risk of COPD through lifestyle management. COPD represents a group of lung diseases, with the two most common being emphysema and chronic bronchitis.Symptoms of COPD includeConstant coughingWheezingShortness of breathCoughing up mucusTightness in the chestResearch also suggests that there may be a link between poor air quality and COPD. The American Lung Association estimates that between 80-90% of COPD cases result from smoking. Unsurprisingly, secondhand smoke is a significant risk factor as well. Seniors should take the following steps to reduce their risk of COPD:Older adults that smoke should get support from a primary care physician and take steps to quit. There are many programs, services, and products that can help.Seniors should avoid contact with secondhand smoke whenever possible.Reducing exposure to air pollution can help relieve symptoms. Many cities issue poor air quality warnings when these warnings are in effect, seniors should limit outside activities. Seniors should avoid airborne irritants (chemicals, fumes, etc.) in the home.A healthy diet and exercise plan can improve lung function and overall health with direction from a physician.Older adults should understand the impact of aging on their respiratory system and reduce their risk of any related diseases, illnesses, or conditions.Doctors may recommend getting vaccinations for both influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia to guard against further breathing complications.Comfort Keepers Can HelpComfort Keepers elevates the human spirit for todays seniors and their families through a unique, individualized approach to care that helps seniors thrive and achieve greater wellbeing by fostering everyday positive moments, connection, and a more purposeful life no matter their age or acuity. As part of a healthcare team, an in-home caregiver can assist with activities that slow disease progression or reduce the risk for those with respiratory issues. Comfort Keepers caregivers can help by supporting physician-recommended health programs, preparing meals, encouraging prescribed physical activity, reminding seniors to take medications, and providing transportation to scheduled appointments. References:Healthline. Everything You Need to Know About Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Web. 2018.Everyday Health. 5 Best Ways to Prevent COPD by Chris Iliades, MD. Web. 2018.Aging Care. An Overview of COPD by National Institutes of Health. Web. 2017.Unity Point Health. The Top 8 Respiratory Illnesses and Diseases. Web. 2014.American Lung Association. Lung Capacity and Aging. Web. 2017.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Chronic Respiratory Disease. Web. 2017.
As seniors age, physical activities can have not only positive physical effects, but positive cognitive effects as well.Contact an Office in Your AreaIn one study, 100 nursing-home residents performed resistance exercises three times a week for 10 weeks. At the end, the exercise group could lift significantly more weight, climb more stairs, and walk faster and farther than their sedentary counterparts.Its been proven time and again that exercise is good for seniors physical and mental health. Regular exercise, even in small amounts, can improve mood, relieve stress and improve health. According to the CDC, four of the five most expensive health conditions older adults face can be prevented or managed with physical activity. But, only about 35% of adults over the age of 65 are physically active. Any senior starting a new exercise plan should consult with their physician. And, it is helpful for family and members of the care team to assist and support physical activity in any way they can. For those that are physically able to begin an exercise program, regular movement can help them live a more vibrant and healthy life. Some of the health benefits include:Improved mental health, mood and outlookPrevention, or improvement of, diseases such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and osteoporosisReduced pain from arthritis and minimizing its severityDecreased risk of fallsEach individual has different needs when it comes to exercise and varying health conditions that may need to be taken into consideration before beginning an exercise regimen. A health professional to determine the best approach to physical activity with senior care.There are a variety of ways to incorporate aerobic activity, strength-building exercises, stretching and balance all without leaving the comfort of home! Aerobic exercise Walking in place, dancing or aerobic routines can help get the heart rate up. These activities improve cardiovascular health and help older adults maintain a healthy weight. Strength building exercises there are many easy strength-building exercises that can help seniors build the muscles they need to do everyday activities and prevent muscle loss. And, exercises can be done with household items or using body weight, so no expensive equipment is required. Stretching Stretching before and after exercise can help prevent soreness after exercise. And, the additional benefit is improved flexibility, which is good for older adults physical health. For those looking to improve their flexibility even more, there are exercise routines available online that include yoga or stretching routines specifically for seniors.Balance exercises Balance exercises help seniors prevent falls and improve mobility. Yoga, tai chi, and other low-impact activities can all help improve balance and overall physical health.Those that need a little assistance getting started should not hesitate to reach out to their doctor, family or caregiver. It is never too late to adopt an active lifestyle! Comfort Keepers Can HelpFor seniors that need a little extra help living an active lifestyle, Comfort Keepers caregivers can help with encouragement, support and assistance with physician-prescribed exercise plans. And, caregivers can encourage overall health through meal planning, grocery shopping, meal preparation and activities. Our custom care plans focus on physical and mental health and wellness activities. Our goal is to see that clients have the means to find the joy and happiness in each day, regardless of age or acuity.To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today. ReferencesCenters for Disease Control and Prevention. Adults Need More Physical Activity. Web. 2019.Health and Human Services. Facts & Statistics: Physical Activity. Web. 2017.National Council on Aging. Exercise Programs That Promote Senior Fitness. Web.Readers Digest Canada, 5 of the Best Exercises for Seniors to Build Strength, Improve Balance and Boost Heart Health. Web. Harvard Health Publishing. Exercise after age 70. Web. 2007.
More Americans are choosing to age in place. That is, they opt to stay in their homes rather than move to alternative retirement settings.But that often means they must modify their home, so it's not a danger to their safety and health when their physical abilities change.A new career field has risen to address this need: the Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS), a program of the National Association of Home Builders. Certified individuals assess homes to identify and recommend modifications to prevent injuries from falls and other risks.According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), one-third of Americans age 65 and over fall each year. The CDC adds that environmental factors lead to about half of all falls that occur at home. In addition to tripping hazards and poor lighting, these factors include a lack of needed modifications, such as bathroom grab bars, handicapped showers, stair railings and ramps. The organization offers a checklist to make sure an older adult's home is as safe as possible.Home modifications help seniors maintain quality of life. They often prevent injuries that lead to a loss of independence and early admission to an assisted living or long-term care facility.The following are examples of commonly recommended modifications:Install grab bars for toilets and tubs and install a walk-in tub and/or tub seatRemove unnecessary throw rugs and fasten down rugs or floor runners to prevent slippingMove furniture to create clear walking pathsKeep objects off the floor and coil or secure cords to the wall to prevent trippingReplace doorknobs with lever door handlesApply non-slip tape on uncarpeted indoor and outdoor stepsReplace standard light switches with rocker-style switchesIncrease the width of doorways and hallways to accommodate wheelchairs and, where possible, lower sinks and countertopsMove often-used items to lower cabinets to avoid the need for step stoolsRepair or replace loose handrails and install adequate lighting in stairwaysInstall an elevator or chair liftInstall an elevated dishwasher or one with drawers for easy accessReplace old stoves with induction cooktops to help prevent burnsReplace ceramic tile floors with hardwood or vinyl for safe standingShedding Light on Home ModificationWhen modifying a home for a senior, don't forget the importance of good lighting. Seniors need two to three times as much light in order to see as well as younger people.Good lighting -- in the form of natural light -- provides seniors safety and other advantages:Sunlight provides a good dose of vitamin D, which helps the body absorb more calcium to strengthen teeth and bones. Choose window treatments that let in sunlight, without glare, to enhance the health of seniors, many of who get outside less than they used to.Daylight also improves psychological health. It lessens the energy-zapping effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and other forms of depression.
81 Oaks Senior Living in Sarasota, FloridaAbout UsAt 81 Oaks, we believe that every chapter of life should be lived to the fullest. Nestled in the heart of Sarasota, our exceptional senior living community offers assisted living and memory care. We are now open and welcoming new residents!LifestyleOur community is more than just a place to live; it's a vibrant and warm environment where cherished memories are made. We offer personalized support that revolves around your goals and needs, encouraging you to connect with others, learn new things, and experience life in new ways.Community81 Oaks is thoughtfully integrated into an intergenerational Master Plan community, which includes a K-8th grade charter school, a 3,000-member inclusive church, an auditorium, a basketball court, and a park. Our spacious apartments, chef-prepared cuisine, bistro, movie theater, salon and spa, fitness center, and beautifully landscaped courtyard and walking path parks enhance daily life.ResourcesOur wellness programs are designed to promote your physical, social, intellectual, and spiritual well-being, helping you thrive and achieve your personal goals.News & EventsWe regularly host a variety of events, from High Tea and Memory Care Support Groups to Senior Support Expert Panels and festive celebrations like our St. Paddys Party and Holiday Open House. Stay updated with our latest news and join us for our next event.BlogExplore our blog for insightful articles and tips on senior living, wellness, and more.CompanyAt 81 Oaks, we empower our residents to reach their full potential and live a life of their choosing. Our Grove memory care neighborhood supports those with Alzheimers and other memory impairments to live with purpose and joy.Contact UsWe invite you to schedule a personal tour and see firsthand the beauty and warmth of our community. Your new home at 81 Oaks is ready and waiting for you. Let's start the journey together and live in the shade of excellence.Contact InformationPhone: 941-278-8801Schedule a TourVisit our website to schedule a tour and discover all that 81 Oaks has to offer.PricingExperience a higher standard in senior living. Contact us for detailed pricing information tailored to your needs.AmenitiesAnytime restaurant-style diningVariety of chef-prepared entresSiesta Key Private dining roomBayfront Salon and SpaHerons Nest TheaterOak Branch LibraryFlamingo Art StudioSt. Armands Shores Bistro...and more!Retirement Living is a JourneyJoin us at 81 Oaks and live a life enriched with meaningful connections and joyful experiences.Inquiring for More InformationWe're here to help. Fill out our contact form on our website, and one of our senior living experts will reach out to assist you.
81 Oaks Senior Living in Sarasota, FloridaAbout UsAt 81 Oaks, we believe that every chapter of life should be lived to the fullest. Nestled in the heart of Sarasota, our exceptional senior living community offers assisted living and memory care. We are now open and welcoming new residents!LifestyleOur community is more than just a place to live; it's a vibrant and warm environment where cherished memories are made. We offer personalized support that revolves around your goals and needs, encouraging you to connect with others, learn new things, and experience life in new ways.Community81 Oaks is thoughtfully integrated into an intergenerational Master Plan community, which includes a K-8th grade charter school, a 3,000-member inclusive church, an auditorium, a basketball court, and a park. Our spacious apartments, chef-prepared cuisine, bistro, movie theater, salon and spa, fitness center, and beautifully landscaped courtyard and walking path parks enhance daily life.ResourcesOur wellness programs are designed to promote your physical, social, intellectual, and spiritual well-being, helping you thrive and achieve your personal goals.News & EventsWe regularly host a variety of events, from High Tea and Memory Care Support Groups to Senior Support Expert Panels and festive celebrations like our St. Paddys Party and Holiday Open House. Stay updated with our latest news and join us for our next event.BlogExplore our blog for insightful articles and tips on senior living, wellness, and more.CompanyAt 81 Oaks, we empower our residents to reach their full potential and live a life of their choosing. Our Grove memory care neighborhood supports those with Alzheimers and other memory impairments to live with purpose and joy.Contact UsWe invite you to schedule a personal tour and see firsthand the beauty and warmth of our community. Your new home at 81 Oaks is ready and waiting for you. Let's start the journey together and live in the shade of excellence.Contact InformationPhone: (941) 278-8801Schedule a TourVisit our website to schedule a tour and discover all that 81 Oaks has to offer.PricingExperience a higher standard in senior living. Contact us for detailed pricing information tailored to your needs.AmenitiesAnytime restaurant-style diningVariety of chef-prepared entresSiesta Key Private dining roomBayfront Salon and SpaHerons Nest TheaterOak Branch LibraryFlamingo Art StudioSt. Armands Shores Bistro...and more!Retirement Living is a JourneyJoin us at 81 Oaks and live a life enriched with meaningful connections and joyful experiences.Inquiring for More InformationWe're here to help. Fill out our contact form on our website, and one of our senior living experts will reach out to assist you.
81 Oaks Senior Living in Sarasota, FloridaAbout UsAt 81 Oaks, we believe that every chapter of life should be lived to the fullest. Nestled in the heart of Sarasota, our exceptional senior living community offers assisted living and memory care. We are now open and welcoming new residents!LifestyleOur community is more than just a place to live; it's a vibrant and warm environment where cherished memories are made. We offer personalized support that revolves around your goals and needs, encouraging you to connect with others, learn new things, and experience life in new ways.Community81 Oaks is thoughtfully integrated into an intergenerational Master Plan community, which includes a K-8th grade charter school, a 3,000-member inclusive church, an auditorium, a basketball court, and a park. Our spacious apartments, chef-prepared cuisine, bistro, movie theater, salon and spa, fitness center, and beautifully landscaped courtyard and walking path parks enhance daily life.ResourcesOur wellness programs are designed to promote your physical, social, intellectual, and spiritual well-being, helping you thrive and achieve your personal goals.News & EventsWe regularly host a variety of events, from High Tea and Memory Care Support Groups to Senior Support Expert Panels and festive celebrations like our St. Paddys Party and Holiday Open House. Stay updated with our latest news and join us for our next event.BlogExplore our blog for insightful articles and tips on senior living, wellness, and more.CompanyAt 81 Oaks, we empower our residents to reach their full potential and live a life of their choosing. Our Grove memory care neighborhood supports those with Alzheimers and other memory impairments to live with purpose and joy.Contact UsWe invite you to schedule a personal tour and see firsthand the beauty and warmth of our community. Your new home at 81 Oaks is ready and waiting for you. Let's start the journey together and live in the shade of excellence.Contact InformationPhone: 941-278-8801Schedule a TourVisit our website to schedule a tour and discover all that 81 Oaks has to offer.PricingExperience a higher standard in senior living. Contact us for detailed pricing information tailored to your needs.AmenitiesAnytime restaurant-style diningVariety of chef-prepared entresSiesta Key Private dining roomBayfront Salon and SpaHerons Nest TheaterOak Branch LibraryFlamingo Art StudioSt. Armands Shores Bistro...and more!Retirement Living is a JourneyJoin us at 81 Oaks and live a life enriched with meaningful connections and joyful experiences.Inquiring for More InformationWe're here to help. Fill out our contact form on our website, and one of our senior living experts will reach out to assist you.