National Wellness Month in Parkland: Supporting Senior Health

National Wellness Month in Parkland, FL, isn't just a date on the calendar; it's about celebrating life and living each day to the fullest. Since Parkland is home to spots such as the Pine Trails Park, there's no time like the present to enjoy what this Miami suburb has to offer, encouraging seniors to live their healthiest, happiest life every single day.

From group classes to shared meals, Wellness Month comes in all shapes and sizes. What matters is trying something new, even if it's from the comfort of your own home. Here's how you can celebrate active aging in Parkland!

Spend Time with Loved Ones

There's no time like the present to focus on relationships that lift you, and National Wellness Month is a great time to start. When you spend time with family and friends, it's not just enjoyable -- it's a great way to boost your mental and emotional health.

You might get together to go for a walk in Pine Trails Park or grab a cup of coffee at Carmela Coffee Company. You might even grab dinner with your kids or enjoy a phone call with a cousin. Even if you spend a relaxed afternoon shopping with a neighbor, what matters is connecting with loved ones.

This is especially true if you're feeling isolated, which is something seniors often encounter. You might want to discuss this with your doctor to see if there is a counselor or therapist you can speak with. One of the strongest things you can do is talk openly and honestly about your emotions, and National Wellness Month is a great time to start.

Host a Mini Gathering

You don't need to throw a big party. All you need to do is have a few friends and family members over for a backyard BBQ. If the Florida heat is too much, consider having everyone inside for a game night.

Some excellent games to try include:

• Cards
• Bingo
• Scrabble
• Pictionary
• Dominoes

Whatever you do, the point is to keep things low-pressure and fun. Consider a potluck, where everyone brings something, or make it a dessert-only event. Most people are happy to pitch in and get together for an afternoon or evening of good laughs and great company as part of a healthy lifestyle for older adults.

Try Something New Together

Emotional wellness activities and events don't mean you have to do things solo. You can get together with others to enjoy senior wellness programs, especially when trying something new.

Maybe you and a friend sign up for a painting class together. You might even grab lunch with someone new every week in August. Shared routines are what connect people and give them something to look forward to.

If you enjoy being outdoors, consider incorporating a walk-and-talk routine into your daily routine. Pick a new route that you're comfortable with and familiar with, grab a friend, and go for a walk!

Some senior safety tips while walking are:

• Wear light, breathable clothing
• Bring plenty of water
• Know where the restrooms are
• Wear sunscreen
• Ensure someone knows where you are
• Keep your phone with you
• Take frequent breaks
• Take snacks just in case

When you invest in whole-person senior care with others, you're deepening friendships and trying new things in a way that feels less intimidating. You might even feel adventurous and try airboat rides with your new friends! 

Weekend Getaways

Don't discount travel just because it requires planning. A weekend trip doesn't have to be far or fancy.

You can head to a small nearby bed and breakfast or a local yoga weekend retreat. You might even visit a historic site or a scenic town, taking in the natural beauty. Sometimes, a change of scenery is great for a refreshed outlook.

Traveling with friends or family makes things even better. If you're on a fixed income or have a tight budget, consider exploring local senior-friendly trips offered through travel clubs or community centers.

Local churches may also offer opportunities to travel with meals and transportation included. You can even visit a family member to get away for a few days!

Build Connection in Small Ways

You don't need a big party or lavish trip to connect with others. Sometimes the simplest way to improve your mental health is by writing letters and sending them to loved ones.

You might even consider baking muffins for a neighbor or saying hi to people as they walk past your house. What matters is building connections, as they can make your days feel fuller.

We often overlook the power of small gestures for ourselves and others, but these small efforts have a profound impact. Try making a list of five people to check in with that you haven't talked to in a while, and make it a goal to connect with them from time to time.

Celebrate With Food

Cooking and eating with others is a great way to feel good while honoring traditions.

Plan to cook a meal with a loved one. If you live far apart, you might want to swap recipes instead, discussing why you love a certain food and sharing any stories behind the dish.

You don't need to be a gourmet chef to try something new. The goal is to share the experience of cooking with someone else, so you may even want to turn this into a potluck where you also swap recipes.

The same goes for cookie swaps. Everyone bakes a dozen or so of their favorite cookies, and you get to pick from everyone's tray. Be sure to include all ingredients to accommodate possible dietary restrictions.

Make National Wellness Month Part of Your Daily Routine

National Wellness Month is about connecting with others, staying active, and focusing on nutritious meals. It's also about prioritizing your mental health, so take time to reflect while engaging in activities you love. 

At Aston Gardens at Parkland Commons, holistic wellness is a core part of our daily routine. By seamlessly blending compassionate care with engaging activities and events that cater to all seniors, your loved one will thrive in a nurturing environment. Reach out to our amazing staff and schedule a tour to discover why so many seniors proudly call our community "home."