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Achieving Emotional Wellbeing Through Our Eight Dimensions of Well-Being

Posted on August 7, 2023August 7, 2023 by Westminster

At Westminster Communities of Florida, we believe that wellbeing is much more than just physical wellness, and that you must consider the entire being—body, mind and spirit—to be well. This summer, we’re diving into each of Westminster’s Eight Dimensions of Well-Being to guide you to whole-person wellbeing.

Your emotional state has a large effect on your overall wellbeing. Our emotional dimension is guided by a goal of understanding your feelings, accepting limitations and dealing with the stressors of daily life in order to achieve stability.

In this blog post, we’ll look at what causes stress in seniors, how to identify stress in older adults, and the top five ways to manage stress as a senior. Let’s get started!

What Causes Stress in Seniors?

Stress is an unavoidable part of life, and it can be especially difficult for seniors who are dealing with additional physical limitations. In fact, older adults experience higher levels of stress than younger adults due to a variety of factors, including changes in lifestyle, health issues and even financial concerns.

One of the most common causes of stress in seniors is isolation. As people age, they tend to become less socially active due to physical constraints or the loss of loved ones. This lack of connection can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression, which can then cause increased stress levels.

How to Identify Stress in Older Adults

Identifying stress in older adults can be difficult, as the signs and symptoms of stress may manifest differently than in younger people. Common signs of stress in seniors include physical changes such as sleeping problems, fatigue, headaches, and digestive issues. Behavioral changes such as increased irritability, difficulty concentrating or remembering things, and social withdrawal are also common indicators of stress. Seniors may also experience a range of emotions such as anger, sadness, fear or guilt that they have difficulty managing.

Top 5 Ways to Manage Stress as a Senior

There are many strategies and techniques that can help. Here are five of the most effective ways to manage stress and anxiety in seniors:

Get Regular Exercise: Exercise is one of the most beneficial activities for reducing stress levels, as it helps to increase endorphins and reduce cortisol levels. Incorporating aerobic activities such as walking, swimming or dancing into your daily routine can help reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. Yoga is also an excellent way to relax tense muscles while also calming the mind.
Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness is a form of meditation that focuses on being aware and present in the moment without judgement or criticism. Focusing on your breathing, paying attention to your thoughts and emotions without getting caught up in them, and engaging in activities such as yoga or tai chi can be very helpful in managing stress.
Talk it Over: Talking about our feelings with someone we trust or even a professional counsellor can be extremely beneficial when it comes to managing stress. It’s important to express our worries rather than keeping them bottled up inside which can lead to further problems down the line if not addressed properly.
Make Time for Yourself: Taking time out for yourself every day is essential for maintaining emotional wellbeing as an older adult – whether that means going for a walk or simply taking some time out from your busy schedule for reading or doing something creative you enjoy. Allowing yourself some ‘me-time’ will help you stay focused on what really matters and allow you time to relax away from any sources of stress or anxiety you may be feeling at any given moment.
Stay Connected: Staying connected with friends and family members helps seniors feel supported, loved, accepted and less isolated – all key elements when dealing with stressful situations. It doesn’t have to be a physical interaction either – social media platforms like Skype or FaceTime allow us to stay in touch without having to leave our homes which can be particularly useful if mobility is an issue due age-related illnesses such as arthritis.

Take Steps Towards Emotional Stability

Stress is an unavoidable part of life and can be especially difficult for seniors. It is important to take steps to identify and manage stress in seniors in order to maintain their overall wellbeing. By following these steps, seniors can be better equipped to handle the stressors of life and achieve a state of emotional stability.

When you choose to live at a Westminster Life Plan Community, you’ll have access to fun programming with all eight of our dimensions of wellbeing in mind, including addressing your emotional wellbeing. Learn more about the lifestyle you can enjoy at a Westminster community, and find the community near you today!

Staying Safe and Healthy with the Help of Technology

Posted on August 2, 2023August 2, 2023 by Westminster

Technology has revolutionized the way we live, including providing numerous benefits for seniors. Aging presents challenges with mobility, health, and safety, but with the help of modern technology, these challenges can be mitigated, allowing seniors to live independently and with greater ease. From telemedicine and remote patient monitoring to fitness trackers and smart home systems, there are countless ways that technology can enhance the health and safety of seniors and keep them connected to loved ones. With the help of technology, seniors can continue to enjoy an active, independent lifestyle full of possibilities.

Improving Health and Safety

Technology plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and safety of older adults. For seniors living in remote areas, telemedicine, virtual visits and remote patient monitoring are invaluable services that provide access to medical care that may not otherwise be available. Those without reliable transportation or with other health issues preventing them from traveling can connect with a doctor or specialist remotely through video conferencing software or a phone call.

Fitness trackers are excellent for those who want to stay active and keep track of their daily physical activity goals. This data can even be shared with healthcare providers for better assessment of overall wellbeing. For those needing to keep track of medications, making use of digital medication management tools ensure seniors never miss a dose prescribed by their medical professional.

Smart Home Safety for Seniors

Equipping your home with smart devices is another way that technology can help seniors remain independent and safe at home. With smart home technologies like smoke detectors or carbon monoxide sensors installed in their homes, seniors can be alerted to potential dangers quickly so they can take prompt action if needed. Medical alert systems also provide an easy way to contact emergency personnel in case of an accident or illness. Smart sensors installed in the home can detect falls and alert caregivers if assistance is needed, while automated lighting systems can save energy and provide illumination for those with poor eyesight.

Digital Tools to Enhance Social Connections

Technology also helps seniors stay connected with friends and family. With digital tools like video chat, social media, and email, seniors can easily keep in touch with loved ones, no matter the distance. These tools also offer access to online communities where seniors can build relationships with like-minded individuals. Social networks are a great way for seniors to find others who share similar interests and hobbies. Online forums make it possible for them to ask questions of experts in various fields and receive advice from people all over the world. In addition to providing sources of entertainment and companionship, these online communities can be invaluable resources when it comes to staying up-to-date on important news or topics of interest.

The Westminster Advantage

Living in a Westminster community puts all these technological opportunities within reach – providing seniors with access not only to cutting edge technology but also support from staff members who are ready to help them learn how to use it.

Westminster Communities of Florida also offers a MyWLife App, an app for your phone or iPad that keeps you in touch with everything that is happening at the community. Residents also have access to MyWAssistant, a special, Alexa-enabled voice assistant package that they can use to learn about the day’s calendar of lifestyle activities, find out the dining menu and more. Because MyWAssistant is powered by Alexa, it can also control their lights, thermostats and more.

Living in a Life Plan Community offers the assurance of services and amenities to improve your lifestyle, like housekeeping and transportation services, plus a plan in place for the future, should your needs change, allowing seniors to remain independent while having access to any necessary help if needed.

Overall, technology has many advantages when it comes to helping seniors age gracefully while maintaining an independent lifestyle full of possibilities. With technological advancements such as telemedicine, smart sensors, automated lighting systems, social media platforms, online stores and delivery services – all accessible from Westminster communities – aging doesn’t have to mean sacrificing safety or convenience!

To learn more about how technology is enhancing lifestyles at a Westminster community today, find the location near you!

Beat The Heat With Our Social Dimension of Wellbeing

Posted on August 1, 2023August 1, 2023 by Westminster

Westminster Communities of Florida has developed our MyWLife Program and its Eight Dimensions of Wellness, one of these eight dimensions is social. While being social isn’t always as easy as it sounds, it’s important to our health at all ages of life, and is integral to wellness in our latter years. It helps to reduce depression and anxiety, and can even provide a sense of purpose.

As we age, it can become harder to stay social. Seniors may lose connections with their friends, and don’t know where to make new ones. Our bodies and minds may limit our ability to get out, or we may struggle to find the energy for activities we used to enjoy. But Westminster’s MyWLife program for well-being of body, mind and spirit can be the cure: Our Resident Experience teams specialize in social well-being, and they have the needs and interests of residents in mind. They curate a calendar of fun and exciting opportunities to be social — every day!

And the summertime is no different when it comes to planning fun events!

So far this summer, every community has held so many actives. Some of our favorites include a resident dog show, a water volleyball game between residents and team members, art gallery visits and so much more!

But the summer isn’t over yet! There are still so many more things to come. Here are just a few of the upcoming events at Westminster’s Life Plan communities:

Line Dancing Lessons
Mystery Dinner
Comedy House Trip
Musical Dining Experience
Puppy Play Dates
Museum Visits
And more!

So no matter which Westminster Community our residents are at, they have countless opportunities to get out and make new friends, spend time with the ones they have, and get have a great time!

Eat Well and Save Money: Grocery Shopping Tips for Seniors

Posted on July 27, 2023July 27, 2023 by Westminster

Grocery shopping can be expensive, especially when food prices are on the rise. But with a little bit of planning, you can save money and still get the food you need. AARP: The Magazine recently published 5 great tips for seniors looking to save money at the grocery store. In this blog post, we’ll look at how to make the most of your grocery budget!

Cook from scratch and avoid prepared foods — it costs less and is healthier, too

Cooking from scratch is one of the best ways to save money on groceries and eat healthier. Prepared foods, like pre-packaged snacks and ready-made meals, are often more expensive than making them yourself. They also often contain a lot of highly processed foods, saturated fats, sodium and ingredients you wouldn’t recognize.

When you cook from scratch, you have control over what goes into your food, and you don’t have to break the bank. You can choose fresh ingredients like fruits and vegetables or lean proteins. You don’t need to purchase expensive cuts of meat, either — less expensive cuts can be just as tasty when cooked properly. Even if you’re tired of cooking, you can make simple recipes like stir-fries or soups with minimal effort. It can be just as fast as ordering out or heating up something pre-made.

So before you take a trip down the frozen dinner aisle, take a few moments to consider making something homemade instead!

Have a plan for your meals in advance, so you can reuse ingredients and avoid impulsive shopping

Meal planning will save you money on your grocery bill, by buying only what you need. It also lets you reuse ingredients throughout the week, so you can save money by having a plan to use up that whole package of chicken breasts.

Start small by creating a meal plan for just a few days. Begin by making a list of meals that include overlapping ingredients, such as using ground beef to make spaghetti with meatballs and tacos. You can also check your grocery store’s weekly ads to plan your meals around what’s on sale each week.

When writing your grocery list, make sure to take stock of what you already have in your pantry or refrigerator first. That way, you can use up the can of tomatoes you already have rather than buying a second can.

Buy frozen goods and produce to end waste

Many seniors find that they eat less than they used to, due to changes in the metabolism as we age. To save money and reduce waste, take advantage of minimally processed frozen goods, like fruit and vegetables. Many vegetables that are commonly frozen, like peas and corn, may even be better than fresh in the produce section. Many varieties of fruits and vegetables are available in the freezer section, often at a fraction of the cost of fresh produce.

Frozen produce is a better healthy choice than canned goods, because it removes the need for preservatives, reducing your exposure to unhealthy chemicals and additives. Additionally, there’s no need to worry about spoilage, since you can cook only what you need, when you need it.

Make sure to look out for discounts, like a “buy one get one free” offer, which can help you stretch your grocery budget even further!

Don’t be afraid to buy high-quality store-brand goods — today’s house brands aren’t the offcast store brands of the ’70s

It’s no secret that store-brand goods are typically cheaper than name brands. However, many consumers don’t realize just how far store-brand products have come regarding quality and taste. Well-known manufacturers often produce today’s house brands and make the same product for Publix Premium or Walmart’s Great Value. You’re just paying less for the packaging. House brands mean you don’t have to sacrifice quality for a bargain — you can still get high-quality products and save money at the same time.

Overall, today’s house brands offer a good value on groceries, while still providing quality assurance. Don’t be afraid to try them out — they could end up saving you big bucks!

Plan your meals around what’s in season or on sale to take advantage of the best prices

Planning your meals around what’s in season or currently on sale can be an effective way to save money when grocery shopping. Additionally, many stores have weekly specials or promotions that you can take advantage of. You may want to see what’s in season at the store, and then look up recipes online that make use of seasonal produce to get creative with meal ideas.

It’s also important to remember that not all sales are worth taking advantage of — some may not save you much money compared to regular prices. Look at what the regular price is, and evaluate whether the savings is worth buying it right now, especially if you don’t need it.

Also, don’t forget about coupons! In addition to the old-fashioned paper coupons, many stores now offer digital coupons that can help you save even more money on groceries each week.

Don’t feel like cooking? Residents at a Westminster Life Plan Community enjoy restaurant-style dining, breakfast, lunch and dinner, with nutritious and seasonal menus prepared by the talented members of our dining services team. Learn how you can enjoy our menus and find a community near you!

Beat The Heat With Our Nutritional Dimension of Well-Being

Posted on July 25, 2023July 25, 2023 by Westminster

Nutrition is an important aspect of again, we at Westminster Communities of Florida believe in this. To provide every opportunity for residents to have engaging lifestyle experiences, we created our eight dimensions of wellness including physical, lifelong learning, nutritional, social, emotional, spiritual, vocational and community.

Each week this summer we’re bringing you a fun way to engage in a different aspect of wellness. This week we’re bringing you nutritional based fun summer drinks to enjoy with family.

Stay cool with these delicious drinks you can make at home:

Lavender Lemona de

This is a twist on your normal lemonade, including real dried lavender to make from scratch.

Ocean Wat er

Embrace summer and the beach with this themed drink made with coconut extract and lime soda.

Watermelon J uice

Jam packed with all the nutrient of regular watermelon, this is a fun way turn it into a refreshing drink, including mint and ginger.

Ginger Peach Sod a

This recipe utilities fresh peaches and can be turned into an ‘after dark’ drink with a simple addition.

Cucumber Ginger Mint Agua Fr esca

You can’t get any better than cucumbers when it comes to both refreshing and healthy.

We hope you enjoy making these drink with friends and family, and continue to beat the heat this summer with our eight dimensions of wellness!

Lifelong Learning: Educational Workshops and Classes for Our Residents

Posted on July 19, 2023August 16, 2023 by Westminster

Over here at Westminster Communities in sunny Florida, we’re firm believers that learning isn’t just a phase – it’s a forever thing. Whether you’re a younger senior hungry for some new experiences, an old soul looking to try out something fresh, or perhaps someone seeking an enriching space for their loved one, we’re the go-to spot. Our community strives to stand as a tapestry of life’s lessons. Dive in – the water’s warm and the journey’s ever-inspiring!

Staying Digitally Connected

Gone are the days of just letters and long calls. It’s all about video chats and online everything now. And those nifty digital gadgets? They’re not as intimidating as they might seem. But guess what? Age isn’t anything but a number when it comes to the digital world. Whether your tech-savvy or just dipping your toes in the cyber pond, we’re here to guide the way. At Westminster, we’re here to provide resources to help, so you can FaceTime with the grandkids, binge your favorite series, or even snag tickets to that online concert. Maybe you’ll become the go-to tech guru in your group!

The joy of connecting in this digital age, be it with family or with passions new and old, is genuinely unparalleled. And at Westminster Community, we ensure our residents are adept sailors navigating this vast digital ocean with ease.

Rediscovering the Arts

Art, in all its glory, stirs the soul and awakens the imagination. Curious about painting? Draw inspiration from those jaw-dropping Floridian sunsets or the gentle sway of palm trees. Ever tried pottery? Shape your thoughts while molding clay, feeling the earthy textures tell stories beneath your fingers. Or maybe you’ve got a soft spot for music? From tapping your feet to golden oldies to grooving with today’s hits, our classes strike the right chord. Dive into photography or immerse in sculpture – the choice is yours. At Westminster, it’s more than just art—it’s about bringing our folks together for some quality time, fun, and self-expression. Through each stroke, note, and click, we celebrate life’s vibrant tapestry.

Local History and Culture

Florida’s not just sunny beaches and palm-fringed coastlines – it’s a rich tapestry of stories, history, and cultural footprints. Beyond the allure of its pristine shores lies a narrative that’s been centuries in the making. We’ve got local history buffs and enthusiasts sharing everything from the state’s indigenous legacy, to swashbuckling pirate tales, to its bustling modern scene. Curious about that unique blend of Spanish colonial influences with contemporary designs? That’s what we love about Florida’s architectural history!

Health and Wellness

At Westminster Communities, you’re not just another face in the crowd; you’re family. Your wellness is our top priority, and we wholeheartedly believe it goes beyond the conventional. Sure, hitting the gym is great, but wellness is a vast, colorful spectrum. Whether you’re looking for tips on scrumptious yet nutritious eats, eager to find your zen in yoga, or maybe just wanting to dance your heart out to your favorite tunes, we’re here for it. With workshops, activities, and expert sessions tailored for every aspect of well-being – mental, physical, emotional – we’re on a mission to ensure you embrace each day with zest, vitality, and that unmistakable Westminster glow.

Gardening and Nature

Nature, with its organic rhythm and soothing embrace, has an uncanny way of grounding us. At Westminster Communities, we offer avenues for you to be one with this tranquility. Roll up your sleeves and dive hands-first into our gardening workshops, where you can cultivate, nurture, and be amazed by the lushness of Florida’s diverse flora. Prefer to be a spectator of nature’s wonders? No problem! Take a leisurely stroll with us on our serene nature walks or grab those binoculars for a spot of birdwatching, reveling in Florida’s vibrant avian tapestry. But remember, it’s more than just about the greenery and feathery friends; it’s a journey of finding calm, basking in pure joy, and fully embracing those rejuvenating outdoor experiences.

Life’s never a straight line; it’s an exhilarating roller coaster of lessons, memories, and growth. At Westminster Communities of Florida, we totally get that! We’re here to make sure this ride is filled with both the comforting warmth of cherished memories and the electrifying buzz of new adventures. So, if you’ve got a zest for life and an appetite for discovery, why not join our vibrant community? Dive into a journey where the past meets the present, all while savoring every twist, turn, and moment of joy.

Beat the Heat with our Lifelong Learning Dimension of Well-Being

Posted on July 17, 2023July 17, 2023 by Sydney

As we age, it’s important to keep our minds and bodies sharp by engaging in lifelong learning. Learning isn’t just about reading books and attending classes – there are many other ways to interact with the world around us. This week, we’re highlighting how you can take advantage of the Lifelong Learning dimension of Westminster’s Eight Dimensions of Well-Being to keep your mind sharp during the summer months.

Residents at a Westminster Communities of Florida’s Life Plan Communities enjoy a plethora of lifelong learning opportunities as a part of our MyWLife wellbeing program. We believe that wellbeing is much more than just physical wellness, and that to be “well,” you must consider your mind as well as your body. Explore three ways to keep sharp this summer: at a Westminster Community, with an online community or in your greater community.

LEARN AT A WESTMINSTER COMMUNITY

Many of our Life Plan Communities have partnerships with local colleges and universities and even host courses on campus. In Tallahassee, St. Petersburg and Jacksonville, we have partnerships with the Osher Lifelong Learning Institutes at Florida State University, Eckerd College and the University of North Florida, for residents to attend these exceptional courses and even provide classrooms! Here is a sample of some of the courses available for the upcoming semesters:

The Wizard of Menlo Park: Thomas Edison at Westminster Shores: In 1847, in a small Ohio town, a boy was born who befuddled those he met. He didn’t talk until the age of four, developed a level of genius rarely seen and would go on to change the world with his many inventions. Thomas Edison would do whatever he could to achieve his goal of getting rich, ruthlessly crushing competitors, taking credit for the work of others and estranging himself from his children. Even so, life as we know it today was inexorably shaped by the man known as “The Wizard of Menlo Park.”
A Very British Problem: Brexit (1945-2021) at Westminster Palms: Since the end of the Second World War, Britain has struggled with the question: Is Britain European? One response to that question is that Britain can only thrive if it is more European; for others, England can only succeed if it is less European. Explore the path to Brexit and what this means for the future of Britain and Europe.
Eye to I: From Self-Portraits to Selfies at Westminster Suncoast: Self-portraiture has a long tradition while selfies are relatively new. Both, however, spring from the same human impulse: to be seen and shape the way we are seen. While most of our selfies will never be mistaken for a Rembrandt, some have been recognized as works of art. Join Margo Hammond in a survey of self-portraiture and get inspired to create more artistic selfies of your own.

Whatever your interests may be, you are sure to find something that sparks your curiosity and expands your horizons. With these exceptional courses available right at our doorstep, there is no better time to start exploring lifelong learning opportunities.

LEARN ONLINE

Lifelong Learning doesn’t just have to happen in a classroom. Having access to educational opportunities right at home is an invaluable asset for older adults looking to stay sharp. With the abundance of online courses, tutorials, and videos available, there are endless possibilities for learning without ever leaving the house. Here are a few ways to engage:

Absorb information online: Learn a new skill or brush up on an existing one with an online course, ranging from basic computer skills and internet safety, to cooking techniques or foreign language instruction. Many sites such as LinkedIn or Coursera offer free or low-cost access to courses in a variety of subjects and skill levels. Residents at Westminster Point Pleasant enjoy access to One Day University, offering hundreds of entertaining and informative lectures on science, history, art, politics and more, like “Inside the Score of Broadway’s ‘Hamilton’” with Gil Harel of Brandeis University and “Much Ado about Shakespeare: Why Three Great Comedies Still Matter Today” with Joseph Luzzi of Bard College.
Explore your local library: Libraries are a valuable resource for accessing materials without having to purchase them. Explore books, magazines, newspapers, audiobooks and DVDs for free in topics ranging from history and philosophy to fiction and science fiction. Participate in programs and educational opportunities offered and engage with your peers. For those with limited mobility, your local library may even offer delivery services so users can still take advantage of their offerings without having to leave home.
Become a master with help from museums: Get great information about art, culture, science, technology and other aspects of life – often with interactive exhibits designed specifically for older adults at your local museums!

No matter what your learning style is or what subject you’re interested in exploring further – there are plenty of options available right at home for keeping your mind active.

LEARN IN YOUR GREATER COMMUNITY

It’s not enough just to set aside dedicated time for studying or taking online classes—you should also look at ways to make learning part of your everyday life.

Volunteer: Stay connected with your community and learn new skills by volunteering. Whether it’s helping at a local charity, participating in environmental projects, or teaching others about topics you’re passionate about, volunteering provides meaningful opportunities for seniors to get involved and make a difference. Not only will you be able to help others, but you can also develop valuable skills.
Meet with like-minded individuals: Joining book clubs is another great way to stay engaged with learning. Through these discussions, members can gain different perspectives on various topics as well as form meaningful relationships with their peers. Many book clubs also provide access to free readings and literary events in the area that offer further learning opportunities.
Check out local colleges and universities: Attending lectures at nearby universities is another way seniors can keep sharp this summer. Many universities offer free admission for seniors who are interested in attending lectures and gives seniors the chance to hear from top industry professionals and experts on diverse topics that may interest them. This type of interaction offers an invaluable learning experience that cannot be replicated online – not only do seniors get direct contact with experts, but they also benefit from engaging with students of all ages who might have fresh thoughts on current topics of discussion.

NEVER STOP LEARNING

Lifelong learning is an invaluable part of a well-rounded lifestyle. By exploring the opportunities available at Westminster Communities of Florida’s communities, online or in your greater community, seniors can keep sharp and engaging with the world around them this summer. Don’t miss out on the chance to boost your vitality and well-being – explore the possibilities with Westminster’s 8 Dimensions of Well-Being today!

Beat The Heat With Our Spiritual Dimension of Wellbeing

Posted on July 15, 2023August 17, 2023 by Westminster

At Westminster Communities of Florida, we value spiritual wellness as part of our Eight Dimensions of Wellness. These dimensions are all a part of our MyWLife Program, where we understand that whole-body wellness is more than just physical. We believe that spiritual wellness helps to guide and sustain us.

As a part of the spiritual dimension of wellbeing, we especially recognize and respect the importance of faith, prayer, and meditation. To support residents in this way, we offer a variety of services and activities that are designed to nurture spiritual wellness, including religious services, Bible studies, and prayer groups.

Our chaplaincy team is available to assist residents with spiritual needs and to provide support and guidance for any life transitions. Our goal is to provide a nurturing environment that helps residents to develop positive spiritual practices and a sense of peace within themselves.

Want to know more about how our team members go above and beyond to “beat the heat” this summer?

Here are just a few of the offerings at our communities:

Bible study
Weekly Service
Guest Speakers
History Classes
Holiday Celebrations
Meditation classes
Book clubs

These activities, along with many others, provide a great opportunity for residents of any background to come together and strengthen their faith.

We are committed to creating an environment that is conducive to spiritual growth and to providing our residents with the tools and resources needed to nurture their spiritual wellbeing.

Enjoy live performances close to home with these shows in West and Central Florida

Posted on July 14, 2023July 14, 2023 by Westminster

When you’re craving a night out at the theater, you don’t have to go to Broadway. Stay at home in sunny Florida, where it’s easy to enjoy outstanding musical shows and performances with performing arts centers close to home!

Whether you’re looking for a light-hearted comedy show, a live concert, a classic play, or a unique dance performance, there’s something for everyone. From traditional to modern, these venues showcase a variety of performances. Plus, many of these locations have educational programs and classes for those interested in learning more about the performing arts. So, if you’re looking for a great evening of entertainment, try one of these shows, coming up this summer!

Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts – Orlando

In the heart of central Florida, the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is located in downtown Orlando. They feature several series with events occurring year round, including a Broadway Series, Orchestral, Ballet, Comedy and more.

Here are a few of their upcoming shows:

Reflections: 50th Anniversary Special – September 21 – 24, 2023
Reflections is a celebratory launch of Orlando Ballet’s 50th season and offers a look back as well as ahead in terms of how the organization has evolved from its very humble start to become one of Central Florida’s leading performing arts organization. We begin with the premiere of our own anniversary film that tells a story about love for the art form and the risk-taking that helped build the organization, including missteps and victories that occurred along the way. We’ve harvested conversations from many of the talented artists and community leaders who were involved from the beginning while we celebrate today’s highly respected professional dance company.

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra – October 8, 2023
London’s Royal Philharmonic Orchestra is uncompromising in their excellence and at the forefront of orchestral music in Europe. Performing over 200 concerts a year, including a residency at The Dr. Phillips Center, the Orchestra draws audiences, live and online, of more than 60 million people a year. The Royal Philharmonic is recognized as the UK’s most in-demand orchestra both at its home Royal Albert Hall and in performances across the globe.

Annie – October 23 – 29, 2023
Holding onto hope when times are tough can take an awful lot of determination, and sometimes, an awful lot of determination comes in a surprisingly small package. Little Orphan Annie has reminded generations of theatergoers that sunshine is always right around the corner, and now the best-loved musical of all time is set to return in a new production – just as you remember it and just when we need it most.

Straz Center for the Performing Arts – Tampa

On the west coast of Florida you can visit the David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts in Tampa, close to several Westminster communities. They feature a touring Broadway Series, Opera, Plays, and so much more.

Here are a few of their upcoming shows:

LIZZE: The Musical – Now through August 6, 2023
Lizzie Borden was acquitted of the 1892 ax murders of her stepmother and father, but creepy legends and schoolyard rhymes insist on her guilt. (They also exaggerate – whoever dispensed with the elder Bordens did so with 18 and 11 whacks, far less than the 40 and 41 of the playground anthem.) In LIZZIE: THE MUSICAL, young Miss Borden’s tale is related by four ferocious women fronting a six-piece rock band playing songs with snarling attitude and gleeful gallows humor.

TWILIGHT – Los Angeles, 1992 – August 16 – August 27, 2023
The acquittal of police officers accused of beating Rodney King set off five days of rioting, an outpouring of rage Los Angeles hadn’t seen since the 1965 Watts riots. Playwright Anna Deavere Smith’s stunning one-woman play, TWILIGHT: Los Angeles, 1992, recounts that time from 27 different perspectives. Jobsite’s Andresia Moseley takes on the challenge of portraying 27 characters to capture what BroadwayWorld called the “cacophony of voices at the city’s heart” following the King trial’s verdict.

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead – September 13 – October 8, 2023
Before winning an Oscar® as a writer of Shakespeare in Love, Tom Stoppard delivered a comic retelling involving the Bard of Stratford-upon-Avon — he dove into Hamlet retelling it from the point of view of two bumbling support players. The entire world is a stage, and Rosencrantz and Guildenstern play their part as the unwitting pawns in history’s greatest tragedy. This is the story of what “really” happens behind the scenes as events pass them by.

With these performing centers close to several Westminster Communities of Florida communities, it makes it convenient for residents at one of our communities to enjoy a night of fun at the theater!

How can you fall in love with performing arts? Find the Westminster community near you to learn more.

Beat the Heat with our Physical Dimension of Well-Being

Posted on July 7, 2023July 7, 2023 by Westminster

At Westminster Communities of Florida, we believe that in order to be “well” you must consider the entire being: body, mind and spirit. We take this to heart, and offer residents and team members an active and engaging lifestyle inspired by eight dimensions of wellness including physical, lifelong learning, nutritional, social, emotional, spiritual, vocational and community.

In the coming weeks, we’ll be highlighting how you can take advantage of one of the eight dimensions of wellness to stay cool and active during the summer months. It’s no secret that Florida summers are hot, but with Westminster’s Eight Dimensions of Well-Being, the summer heat won’t stop your active lifestyle.

This week, we’re focusing on the physical dimension of well-being to help you beat the heat and stay active. From yoga and stretching to swimming and water aerobics, there are plenty of ways for seniors to stay cool, active and healthy indoors.

YOGA AND STRETCHING

Yoga has become increasingly popular among seniors in recent years, and for good reason. Not only can it help with physical health and fitness, but it can also be calming for the mind. Yoga is low-impact, making it an ideal exercise for those who are older or have limited mobility. It also helps to improve flexibility, balance, and muscle strength – essential components of a successful active senior lifestyle.

Stretching is an important complement to any form of exercise, especially for seniors. Regular stretching helps keep muscles flexible and strong which can reduce the risk of injury from falls or other activities that require strength or agility. This is especially true during hot summer months when outdoor temperatures can cause muscles to stiffen up more quickly than normal due to sweat loss or air conditioning use indoors.

To ensure safety, start slowly and don’t push yourself beyond what is comfortable—pain should not be part of any stretching regimen. Additionally, always warm up your muscles first by taking a few minutes to walk before starting your stretch routine since cold muscles are more likely to tear when stretched too far too quickly. When done correctly – both yoga and stretching can provide numerous mental and physical benefits for seniors looking to beat the heat this summer while staying healthy and fit.

SWIMMING AND WATER AEROBICS

Swimming and water aerobics for seniors can provide a great way to stay cool during the summer heat while still getting the physical exercise they need. Swimming is one of the best aerobic exercises available, as it works all major muscle groups while providing resistance that’s easy on joints. It also helps improve balance and coordination, making it an ideal exercise for seniors.

Water aerobics is another great option for seniors who want to stay active during hot summer days. This type of exercise can be done in a pool or even in a shallow body of water. It involves performing various movements that target key muscle groups while also providing resistance from the water itself.
Swimming and water aerobics provide senior citizens with an excellent way to beat the heat while still staying physically active during hot summer months in Florida. With proper instruction and guidance, anyone can stay fit during the warmest days with these two simple but effective forms of exercise.

GROUP EXERCISE CLASSES AND DANCING

Group exercise classes and dancing are great ways for seniors to stay cool while getting a good physical workout. Group exercise classes are available at our Life Plan Communities, but can also be found at many community centers, YMCAs, or senior centers. These classes provide an opportunity for older adults to engage with their peers in a safe setting and can be tailored to any fitness level.

In addition to group exercise classes, there are also options for seniors who want to beat the heat with some dancing. Line dancing is an especially popular option as it allows elderly participants to dance without too much strain on their joints. Line dancing also provides the opportunity for seniors of all ability levels to join in and have fun while getting active. Other forms of dance, such as salsa or ballroom dancing can also be beneficial for those looking for a more challenging form of movement. These dances require more coordination than line dancing but still provide the same benefits such as improved balance and agility as well as social interaction with other dancers.

Not only will these activities help keep you physically healthy but they’ll also give you an opportunity to enjoy yourself socially in a safe environment. So don’t let the heat stop you from staying active this summer – get moving indoors!

LIGHT WEIGHT TRAINING

Light weight training uses light weights or resistance bands to target key muscle groups to increase strength, improve balance and flexibility, and reduce the risk of falling. Light weight training can be done at home with minimal equipment, or seniors can join group classes at their community or local senior center.

When engaging in light weight training, it’s important for seniors to use light weights that are easy on their joints. Movements like bicep curls, triceps extensions, shoulder presses, squats and lunges are all great exercises that target different muscle groups while being gentle on the body. It’s also important to focus on proper form when doing these exercises so as not to put too much strain on the body or risk injury.

It’s also beneficial for older adults to include cardiovascular activity such as walking or jogging into their routine along with light weight training. This helps them maintain a healthy heart rate while increasing aerobic capacity and overall fitness level.

Overall, light weight training is an excellent form of low-impact exercise that can help keep seniors cool during the summer months while providing them with numerous health benefits including increased strength and balance as well as improved cognitive function.

Florida summers can be intense, but that doesn’t have to stop seniors from staying active and healthy. With Westminster’s Eight Dimensions of Well-Being, seniors can beat the heat and stay fit with activities from low-impact yoga poses to challenging dance moves. There are plenty of ways for seniors to stay cool and active this summer, so don’t let the heat stop you from staying healthy and fit. Get moving indoors with Westminster’s 8 Dimensions of Well-Being!