The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that more than one in four Americans aged 65 and older fall each year. Falls are not only frustrating and inconvenient, they can result in bruises, breaks, and pain. However, many falls are avoidable. Village on the Park Stonebridge empowers residents to Live Life Well by creating an environment that is both beautiful and safe.

“Our mission is to stay one step ahead—anticipating needs and delivering unwavering support so our residents can thrive with confidence and peace of mind,” said Lesa Scott, RN, BS, CDP, CADDCT, Senior Vice President of Clinical Operations at The Aspenwood Company. “Proactive fall reduction isn’t just a protocol—it’s part of our culture of care. From energizing fitness programs to innovative technology, every detail in our communities is intentionally designed to promote safety, enhance stability, and support the overall well-being of our residents.”

5 Actionable Tips to Reduce Fall Risk

Here are five practical tips for reducing falls that can be implemented to your lifestyle:

  1. Ensure Your Environment is Safe and Clear to Reduce Fall Risk: 

Simple home modifications can make a significant difference. Ensure living spaces are well-lit, remove tripping hazards like loose rugs and clutter, install grab bars in bathrooms, and make sure frequently used items are within easy reach.

  1. Stay Active and Build Strength to Improve Stability: 

Gentle exercises focused on strength and balance can reduce your fall risk. These exercises from the National Council on Aging help to significantly improve stability and coordination. 

  1. Get Quality Sleep to Promote Health:

A poor night’s sleep can impair attention and balance, increasing fall risk. Establishing a consistent sleep routine and ensuring the bedroom is dark, quiet, and comfortable can improve sleep quality and, in turn, reduce the likelihood of a fall.

  1. Review Your Medications to Avoid Dizziness: 

20% of adults over 55 are taking four or more medications. Some medications or combinations can cause side effects like dizziness or drowsiness, which can increase fall risk. It’s important to have a regular conversation with your doctor or pharmacist to review all medications, including over-the-counter drugs. 

  1. Promote Overall Wellness to Lower Fall Risk: 

Underlying health conditions can contribute to falls. Regular check-ups for vision, hearing, and managing chronic conditions are important for personal wellness.

Checking for Fall Safety in Senior Living

When considering a senior living community, it’s important to look for an environment that not only supports these general fall reduction tips, but also provides advanced solutions for safety and well-being. Communities that invest in innovative technology and comprehensive care teams can offer a significantly enhanced approach to fall reduction. Here’s how such communities can amplify each fall reduction strategy:

  1. Tech-Enhanced Safe Environments:

At Village on the Park Stonebridge, we utilize discreet, wireless in-room sensors that passively monitor a resident’s environment. These systems detect unusual activity patterns, such as unexpected bed exits at night, providing real-time alerts to caregivers. This proactive approach ensures a continuously safe and responsive living space.

  1. Enhanced Activity and Strength Building: 

Look for communities that offer a dynamic calendar of fitness classes and activities specifically designed to improve mobility, strength, and balance. Village on the Park Stonebridge residents often comment that staying active is more enjoyable and consistent after moving here.

  1. Insights for Quality Sleep: 

Seek a community that leverages innovative wellness technology to provide valuable insights into sleep patterns. This includes tracking sleep duration, quality, and nighttime interruptions. AI-supported data analytics such as what we utilize at Village on the Park Stonebridge can help the care team identify subtle changes that may affect a resident’s well-being and fall risk, enabling timely interventions to promote better sleep and reduce associated risks.

  1. Proactive Medication Oversight: 

A key advantage of senior living is the presence of professional care teams who can work closely with residents and their physicians. These teams can monitor medication schedules and proactively identify potential side effects like dizziness or drowsiness, which are significant fall contributors.

  1. Comprehensive Wellness Monitoring: 

Look for communities where systems offer an added layer of clinical oversight by continuously and passively monitoring vital signs like heart and respiratory rates. This data collection helps the care team and partnering physicians detect health issues earlier, allowing for more timely interventions that can support health and significantly reduce the risk of falls. 

By the Numbers: Benefits of Choosing a Community with Proactive Fall Reduction Tech 

Senior living communities that have implemented fall reduction software see impactful changes for residents, including:

By combining these practical, everyday strategies with the support and tech programs at Village on the Park Stonebridge, we are able to significantly reduce the risk of falls for our residents. This comprehensive approach ensures our residents have the confidence and support to Live Life Well. 

If staying in your current home no longer feels safe or manageable, consider a move to Village on the Park Stonebridge to enhance your overall well-being.

Learn more about our proactive approach by scheduling a tour today.

Assisted living can mean getting the support you need to live life to the fullest. At Village on the Park Stonebridge Ranch, our residents stay active with outings to some of McKinney’s most beautiful parks and walking trails. 

If you’re looking for somewhere to spend Father’s Day, our residents like these local parks for a fun and relaxing outdoor afternoon with loved ones. 

Great Parks & Trails to Explore with Dad Near McKinney, Texas

The Benefits of Walking 

Adding gentle exercise like walking into your routine offers significant advantages for healthy aging. This study found people who walk four times weekly for just 15 minutes can live longer and healthier lives compared to those who are more sedentary. Here are some of the key benefits:

Live Life Well and enjoy more of the natural beauty of local McKinney! If you want to keep it simple, our campus offers beautiful spaces to take a quick stroll too.Want to learn about the many fun opportunities for low-impact exercise, social connection, and family events at Village on the Park Stonebridge Ranch? Schedule a tour.

Looking for fun places to spend time with mom or grandma in McKinney? Finding plans that will appeal to her interests and facilitate quality time together can require a bit of homework. Our residents at Village on the Park Stonebridge Ranch have shared some of their favorite local gems perfect for Living Life Well with the important women in your life.

Our Resident Recommendations Near Mckinney: 

Whether you’re walking through antique finds or getting brunch, McKinney is the perfect place to spend a memorable day 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 Stonebridge with your family. Interested in learning about social connection and fun activities available every day at Village on the Park Stonebridge in McKinney, Texas? Schedule a tour!

Could the secret to a longer life be simpler than you currently think? Stretching from the sun-drenched hills of Sardinia to the tranquil coasts of Okinawa, there exist five unique places globally—known as the Blue Zones—where individuals not only achieve greater longevity but also Live Life Well, experiencing vitality, purpose, and joy extending well into their nineties and beyond.

What exactly are the Blue Zones?

The Blue Zones were initially identified in 2004 through the collaborative efforts of Dan Buettner, National Geographic, the National Institute on Aging, and the world’s foremost longevity researchers. In these regions, individuals celebrate 100th birthdays at a rate 10x greater than people in the US. They also maintain their vigor well into their nineties and beyond, leading active and fulfilling lives.

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

Intrigued by how they do it? We’ve uncovered nine surprisingly straightforward daily habits these long-living communities share—and how you can integrate them into your own lifestyle, especially right here at Village on the Park Stonebridge.

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 inherent aspect of life in these areas. You can integrate more natural movement into your daily routine by taking stairs, choosing to walk or bike instead of driving, and participating 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 could involve your family, a volunteer position, or a hobby you are passionate about.
  2. “Down Shift” – While stress is a universal experience, regardless of where you reside, it’s crucial to establish daily practices that assist in alleviating your stress. At Village on the Park Stonebridge, we offer guided meditation, yoga classes, and peaceful areas for relaxation.

Eating

  1. “80% Rule” – Consuming food until you reach 80% fullness rather than 100% can significantly impact your health.
  2. “Plant Slant” – Instead of meat serving as the primary protein source, 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 meals.
  3. “Wine at 5” – Individuals in the Blue Zones consume alcohol in moderation, typically one to two glasses daily with companions and food. Happy hours are a resident favorite here at Village on the Park Stonebridge.

Connect

  1. “Positive Pack” – Cultivating a supportive social network can reinforce healthy behaviors that enable you to Live Life Well. Village on the Park Stonebridge fosters 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 provide 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 Stonebridge, our focus is on cultivating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where every individual feels valued and connected.

Passport to Adventure: Insights from Ikaria, Greece

While relocating to Ikaria might not be feasible, we can adopt some of their healthy habits into our own lives. For this month’s Passport to Adventure Destination, we focus on Ikaria, Greece, one of the Blue Zones! Our residents will enjoy a variety of enriching activities here at Village on the Park Stonebridge inspired by this remarkable island.

Interested in participating in the excitement of our Monthly Passport to Adventure destinations? Schedule a visit!

Spring has arrived! And with the change in season comes many opportunities to Live Life Well, including longer days to enjoy the sun. It’s more than just a feeling; the sun’s effect on our bodies is scientifically profound.

The Science of Sunshine

Vitamin D

Perhaps the most recognized benefit, sunlight triggers Vitamin D production in our skin. This essential vitamin is vital for calcium absorption, which is necessary for maintaining bone density and preventing osteoporosis. As we get older, our bodies become less efficient at producing Vitamin D, making sun exposure even more crucial. The Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation reports that approximately 54 million Americans have osteoporosis and low bone mass, highlighting the significance of Vitamin D intake.

Mood Elevation

Sunlight increases serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and promotes feelings of happiness and well-being. This can be especially beneficial for seniors who may experience seasonal affective disorder, depression, or other mood-related issues.

Improved Sleep Quality

Sunlight helps regulate our circadian rhythm, the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. By exposing yourself to sunlight during the day, you can enhance your sleep quality at night. This is especially important for seniors, as sleep patterns can change with age.

Enhanced Immune Function:

Sunlight is vital for strong immune function. We all know Vitamin D plays a crucial role in supporting the immune system, but research from Georgetown University Medical Center found that sunlight, through a mechanism separate than vitamin D production, energizes T cells that play a central role in immunity too. Maintaining a strong immune system is essential for seniors to ward off illness and maintain overall health.

Cognitive Benefits:

According to the National Institute of Health, Vitamin D can reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Getting adequate sun exposure, and thus sufficient vitamin D, could contribute to keeping minds sharp.

Enjoying the Sunshine at Village on the Park Stonebridge

At Village on the Park Stonebridge, we understand the importance of creating spaces that maximize natural light. Our residences feature expansive windows and thoughtfully designed communal areas that allow you to bask in the sun’s warmth and enjoy scenic views.

Our beautifully landscaped outdoor spaces and activities promote walks with neighbors, outdoor social gatherings, or relaxing with a good book while soaking up the sun. Additionally, we offer outings to local McKinney parks and scenic areas off campus.

Prioritizing Safe Sun Exposure

While the benefits of sunlight are significant, it’s important to practice safe sun exposure. We recommend you:

Live Life Well: Embracing the Sun’s Golden Rays

At Village on the Park Stonebridge, we’re committed to providing a lifestyle that promotes holistic wellness. By embracing the simple yet powerful benefits of sunlight, you can enhance your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. We invite you to experience the warmth and vitality of our community, where every day is an opportunity to Live Life Well.

Come soak in the beauty of Spring with us! Schedule a tour.

Escape those winter doldrums by embracing the fun and camaraderie of social activities! Winter at Village on the Park Stonebridge is the perfect time to enjoy cozy surroundings and stimulating indoor events.

Game Night 

Get together with friends and neighbors for a fun game of cards, billiards, or bingo in our roomy common areas. It’s an excellent way to socialize and enjoy some friendly competition! Residents at Village on the Park Stonebridge particularly enjoy games like spades, Scrabble, and chess!

Movie Matinees 

Enjoy the latest cinematic offerings without stepping outside! Our comfortable movie nights regularly screen both classic and new release films.

Creative Workshops 

Whether your interests lie in painting, knitting, scrapbooking, or other artistic pursuits, you’ll find everything you need to get creative!

Book Club 

Snuggle up with a good read in our comfortable library, which features a wide array of genres and titles. Many residents also participate in our weekly book club discussions!

Fitness Classes 

Residents of Village on the Park Stonebridge can take advantage of a wide selection of fitness classes! Options include yoga, dance, aerobics, and more.

Ice Cream Socials + Happy Hour 

Our residents love any excuse to socialize and enjoy tasty treats! We host ice cream socials, happy hours, and a variety of themed events throughout the year!

Our warm and inviting atmosphere is the perfect backdrop for creating cherished memories, no matter the season.

Come and see for yourself! We encourage you to visit Village on the Park Stonebridge and experience the welcoming and vibrant spirit of our community this winter. Contact us to schedule a tour today.

As we celebrate the start of a new year, it’s a wonderful opportunity to focus on our health and well-being. This year, forget about rigid resolutions and discover what truly works for YOU. Here are four simple strategies to promote a healthy and fulfilling year:

1. Move Your Body

Physical activity is essential, but it should also be enjoyable! Explore different ways to get moving and find what you genuinely like. Whether it’s a daily walk with a friend, swimming, or joining a dance class, embrace activities that bring you pleasure. Staying active helps you maintain independence, boost your energy, and keep up with your grandkids and great-grandkids. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise on most days.

Here at Village on the Park Stonebridge, we provide a range of fitness classes designed for various needs and abilities, including chair yoga, aerobics, and strength training.

2. Keep Your Mind Active

Just like our bodies, our minds thrive on activity! Engage in stimulating activities like reading, puzzles, games, and learning new skills.

Social interaction is also crucial for cognitive health. Join a book club, attend a lecture, or simply enjoy conversations with your neighbors. At Village on the Park Stonebridge, we offer a diverse calendar of activities, such as clubs, classes, and game nights.

3. Fuel Your Body

Healthy eating is a common goal, but it doesn’t have to be restrictive. Enjoy your favorite foods in moderation while focusing on making small, sustainable changes. Consider swapping processed snacks for nutrient-rich options, adding more vegetables to your meals, or simply drinking more water throughout the day.

At Village on the Park Stonebridge, we support healthy eating by providing delicious and nutritious meal options made with fresh ingredients.

4. Nurture Your Mental Well-being

Life can be full, even in retirement! Remember to prioritize relaxation, stress management, and self-care. Find activities that help you unwind, whether it’s meditation, connecting with nature, or enjoying quiet time with a good book.

This new year, let Village on the Park Stonebridge assist you in achieving your lifestyle goals. We offer a vibrant community, enriching activities, and valuable resources to help you live your best life.

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

The holidays are a busy time for everyone! With family gatherings and festive events filling our schedules, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. However, amidst the celebrations, it’s important to take a moment to observe how your aging parents are doing. This time of year provides a unique opportunity to check in on their well-being and see if they might need some extra help. Here’s what to look for:

1. Home:

2. Daily Life:

3. Social and Emotional Well-being:

4. Safety:

What to Do Next:

The holidays are a joyful time, but they can also reveal subtle signs that our aging parents may need additional support. By being observant and proactive, you can help ensure they receive the care they need to live fulfilling lives.

If you have any questions about senior living options or how to best support your aging parents, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help.

Embarking on the journey to a senior living community is an exciting new chapter! It’s a chance to simplify your life, embrace new experiences, and say goodbye to the worries of home maintenance and daily chores. But where do you begin with packing? This room-by-room guide will make the process less daunting and ensure you have everything you need in your new home!

Bedroom:

Bathroom:

Living Room:

Kitchen:

Tips for a Stress-Free Move:

Ready to experience senior living firsthand? Schedule a tour at Village on the Park Stonebridge! We’re excited to show you around and answer any questions you may have about making our community your new home.

Recognizing When It’s Time for Assisted Living

As your parents age, it’s natural to want the best for them, but knowing when to suggest assisted living can be a difficult and emotionally charged decision. It’s a significant transition for everyone involved. To help you navigate this process, let’s explore some indicators that it might be time to initiate a conversation about assisted living.

Observing Changes in Daily Life

Are you noticing that your parents are having difficulty with everyday tasks that were once routine? Perhaps they’re struggling with bathing, dressing, grooming, or managing their medications. These challenges, while often subtle at first, can signal a need for additional support. Assisted living communities provide personalized assistance with these essential activities, helping your loved ones maintain their independence and dignity while receiving the care they need.

Promoting Social Connection and Engagement

Social interaction is good for well-being at any age, but it becomes even more crucial as we grow older. If your parents are experiencing social isolation or withdrawal, an assisted living community can offer a vibrant and welcoming environment where they can connect with others and thrive. At Village on the Park Stonebridge Ranch, we prioritize creating a sense of belonging and purpose for our residents through organized activities, social events, shared meals, and comfortable common areas.

Ensuring Safety and Peace of Mind

Concerns about safety and security are often a major factor in considering assisted living. Worries about falls, accidents, or managing health conditions at home can be overwhelming for both you and your parents. Assisted living communities offer a secure and supportive environment with 24/7 staff availability to address any needs that may arise. Emergency call systems and personalized care plans further enhance safety and provide peace of mind for residents and their families.

Navigating the Financial Aspects

Moving to an assisted living community is an investment in your loved one’s well-being and quality of life. It’s essential to have open and honest conversations about the financial aspects of this decision. Our team is here to help you understand the costs associated with assisted living, including entrance fees, monthly fees, and any available financial assistance programs. We can provide expert insights and guidance to help you make informed choices that align with your family’s financial situation.

Making a Collaborative Decision

The best approach is to involve your parents in the process and make the decision collaboratively. If you’re starting to see the signs mentioned above, it might be time to start exploring different communities, talking to residents and their families, and getting a feel for what’s out there.

Curious about Village on the Park Stonebridge Ranch? Schedule a tour today!