September 2018
62 Plaza Dr. | Highlands Ranch | 303-791-0430 | info@highlandsranch.org  

Update on new center in Highlands Ranch
Work continues toward establishing a center for activities and resources for adults 50+ in Highlands Ranch. The Active Aging Adult Work Group has been meeting over the last six months to review and recommend components of a new facility. The group has visited area centers, discussed programs and marketing opportunities.
 
In early August, information on the proposed programming was reviewed and it was determined that four program areas should be the focus of the center. These four areas are:
  • Socialization
  • Health, wellness, fitness and recreation
  • Lifelong learning
  • Information, resources and referrals
In their August meeting, t he work group discussed potential names for a center. Following a review of demographics and appropriate criteria, a consensus was reached and the prioritized recommendations will be sent to the Metro District Board of Directors. Next steps in the planning process will include refining space needs and concept plans, updating construction and operating costs, and what might be the most challenging step - finding a location for the center.
Positive and purposeful aging
Sounds good doesn't it? Positive. Purposeful. Aging.

Aging is inevitable. Choosing to be positive and live with purpose is optional. We can do this! Having a reason to get up in the morning,  something to accomplish and somewhere to go, helps us feel like we matter. We're making a difference. Choosing to see the glass as half-full versus half-empty also shines a positive and more enjoyable light on life. Put all of these things together as we continue down the path ahead of us after 50 and we are better positioned to have a more satisfying aging experience.

Science is telling us that our attitudes toward aging also affect our physical health. Those that do not feel they have purpose in life or see themselves as frail and dependent will suffer more disabling health problems, including heart disease.

Consider volunteering, mentoring, working longer, but maybe a shorter or more flexible schedule. Continue to learn new things, take a class and make new friends. You'll walk just a little taller and have more confidence. You'll also be a better conversationalist.

Betty White once shared that we must stay interested to be interesting - How's that for wisdom?
Top 10 ways to activate positive aging in your life
  1. Stay physically active
  2. Exercise your brain
  3. Adopt a healthy lifestyle
  4. Stay connected to other people
  5. Create positive emotions for yourself
  6. Don't sweat the small stuff
  7. Set goals and take control
  8. Minimize life stresses
  9. Have regular medical check-ups
  10. It is never too late to start one of these behaviors.

Growing old is a gift. Let's do all we can to make these years positive and purposeful. To read more about positive aging, click here. 
Summer Skillet Gnocchi Corn Burrata
Enjoy this summer skillet cooked directly on the grill or in a cast iron skillet in your kitchen. The combination of grilled corn, gnocchi, cherry tomatoes and burrata cheese make this a dish that will become one of your favorites.
  
Click  here for the recipe. 
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Highlands Ranch Metro District
Active Adult Programs & Services
Jodie McCann | 720-240-4922 | jmccann@highlandsranch.org
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