Research increasingly shows that maintaining a regular exercise routine and eating a healthy diet low in fats and carbohydrates can help improve mood, lower the risk of dementia and even prolong life. But let’s face it – when it comes to taking care of themselves, men often put their health on the back burner until pain or some other symptom forces them to their doctor’s office.
The caring associates at Crestavilla, a Kisco Signature senior living community in Laguna Niguel, want older men to know there’s a better way. Utilizing their expertise in nutrition, social engagement and intellectual stimulation, they are there to assist residents in designing a customized wellness program, based on their needs and priorities, to keep them physically and mentally fit.
Residents enjoy two fitness centers with state-of-the-art equipment designed for seniors, a yoga studio and a year-round, heated saltwater pool and therapeutic hot tub. Outdoor amenities include a 12,000-square-foot rooftop terrace, a raised-bed garden, a putting green, walking paths, and an on-site dog park.
“It’s amazing the number of various programs they have here,” resident Frank Sato says. “I can’t participate in all of them I’d like to, but I do participate in the ones I like most. For me, gardening is a priority right at the top.”
Sato also visits the fitness center daily, usually in the late evenings when he often has the equipment to himself. “I try to spend 45 minutes to an hour every day in the gym. It gives me the opportunity to keep myself in shape,” he says.
But staying fit is more than just physical exercise, it’s also about keeping the brain healthy – and the best way to boost mental acuity is to engage in daily activities that challenge the mind and flex those mental muscles. Care Services Director Deserie Rodillo notes that Crestavilla offers a robust calendar of classes, activities and outings so men can stay mentally and socially active –which may help them live independently longer.
Crestavilla’s Red Carpet Speaker Series also brings celebrities, actors and authors to the picturesque community to share their stories. A recent speaker was actor Henry Winkler, who urged seniors to be open to new experiences every day. At Crestavilla, residents can partake in films and lectures, gardening, painting, pottery and woodworking classes, among others. A computer lab enables residents to participate in educational programs and learn new skills.
“This has been an incredible journey for us because we’ve taken the opportunities of The Greatest Generation and now are turning toward technology,” says Wellness Director Francis Cruz. “It’s the first time we have seniors who are savvy in computers, and they’re looking for the opportunity to grow those skills and to learn how technology can serve them now in their senior years.”
Assessing a new resident’s needs is crucial to their well-being, so personalized care begins before a resident even moves in. “Building that relationship is a big deal,” Rodillo says. “I introduce myself to our residents, get to know them, their likes and dislikes, and build that relationship before they step into their new home – that’s what I call a shoulder-to-shoulder, friendship-to-friendship relationship so they feel comfortable and feel safe.” Also essential to good health is living in a clean, welcoming environment, she says. “When I come in, I see the residents are happy, they’re in the dining area socializing, and there are groups of residents reading in the common areas. They look peaceful and are enjoying their time.”
To learn more about Crestavilla or to schedule your personal tour, click here.