Remember when apps were short for appetizers? While those pigs in a blanket were pretty delicious, they were not exactly life-changing. The apps in our lives today, those handy tools on our smartphones, can be valuable resources that provide key lifestyle enhancements. From entertainment to safeguarding health, to keeping in touch with the grandkids, the apps on our phones are now an integral part of daily living. How did we ever get along without them?
You’ve become comfortable enough with your smartphone to know how to download an app. And even if you’re still a little tentative with the tech , isn’t that why they made teenagers? Basically, all you have to do now is wade through the maze of options to choose those apps that will make your life easier, more efficient and maybe even more fun.
Check out some of the best apps for seniors. Make sure your iPhone is loaded with the right downloads!
AARP Now
You don’t need to be an AARP member to take advantage of AARP Now, an app designed to connect seniors with news stories, events, and discount programs and services. The app is free for both iPhone and Android users. FYI some features may be available to members only.
Senior Discounts and Coupons
This free app for senior’s iPhones and Androids will hook you up with senior discounts at more than 200 businesses, in categories that include restaurants, groceries, travel and entertainment. Eligibility for most discounts starts at age 50.
Medisafe
Download this free app and take the guesswork out of medicating. Medisafe can remind the user when to take medication and track the progress of a prescription. It is also a resource for practical medical information.
Kindle
Thanks to the Kindle app—not to be confused with the actual kindle device—you only need your phone to read on the go. You can enlarge the font to any size you need. The app is free but most of the books are not.
Audible
Would you rather listen to a good book than read from a screen? Audible is the app for you. There are a few audiobook apps, but Audible from Amazon boasts the largest selection of titles. For the subscription price of $14.95 per month, you get 2 audible original books, guided wellness programs and news stories. You can start with a 30 -day free trial.
1Password
Our lives are filled with so many different passwords. It’s hard to keep them straight. 1Password is an app that stores all your passwords for you, keeping them safe and secure with a password that only you have access to. You can also use it to store other sensitive information like credit cards, bank accounts and passports. 1Password offers a 30-day free trial after which it will cost you $2.99 a month.
Video Chatting
Facetime
The best video chat app for seniors depends on what type of phone you have. Facetime is automatically included in your iPhone and is a simple way to see the faces of your loved ones, no matter where they are. Facetime is not available for Android phone users.
Google Duo
Google Duo is free and will work with both iPhones and Android phones. It could not be easier to use. Just type in names and phone numbers, tap and talk!
Once you get the hang of it, you’ll have all the best that 21st-century technology has to offer right at your fingertips. Whoever said technology was only for the young clearly grossly underestimated the relationship between active adults and their smartphones! Happy downloading!
Lose Yourself in a Book
Project Gutenberg
Project Gutenberg is a library of over 60,000 free eBooks. Choose among free ePub and Kindle eBooks, download them or read them online. You will find the world's great literature here, with focus on older works for which U.S. copyright has expired. Thousands of volunteers digitized and diligently proofread the eBooks, for enjoyment and education.
Librivox
Free public domain of audiobooks read by volunteers around the world. Not only can you listen to these wonderful novels, but you can volunteer to record a book from their public domain collection.
Discover the World of Podcasts
How to Listen to a Podcast
There is literally a podcast for every imaginable topic, from current events to personal stories to educational topics. Find a podcast that interests you!
Learn a New Language
Duolingo.com
Duolingo is a free language-learning website and app. It offers a skill tree of lessons that use listening exercises, flashcards, and multiple-choice questions to drill you on new words, phrases, and sentences. Duolingo.com can only be opened in Google Chrome, Apple Safari, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge.
Babbel
Babbel is a subscription-based language learning website and app, with a strong focus on conversation phrases. Pricing starts at $12.95 per month.
Tips on Learning a New Language
Want to learn a language quickly? Here are 8 steps you can take to become more fluent.
Grow Your Mind by Taking Classes Online
Coursera
Through Coursera, you can build skills with courses from top universities like Yale, Michigan, Stanford, and leading companies like Google and IBM.
Udemy
Udemy is an online learning and teaching marketplace with over 100,000 courses and 24 million students.
The Great Courses
Over 700 college-level courses on CD, DVD, and digital formats can be found and ordered through The Great Courses website.
SkillShare
Take free online classes in everything from painting with thread, finding inner peace, flower arrangement, to knitting – and more! Skillshare has quick video tutorials to walk you through each step of the way.
Masterclass
Want to learn magic from Penn & Teller or filmmaking from Martin Scorsese, then take a Master Class. Celebrities teach you their specific craft in their words for $15 per month.
Visit a Museum (Virtually)
Museums with Virtual Tours
If you cannot go to a museum, bring the museum to you. Experience some of the most famous art pieces virtually by touring museums around the world.
Bring the Outdoors Indoors
Decorating with House Plants
Learn what Architectural Digest suggests for their best indoor plants and more importantly, how to care for them.
Indoor Gardening for Beginners
New to indoor gardening? Read this informative article from Epic Gardening for some tips as you start your new gardening hobby.
Best Indoor Plants for Apartment Homes
If you love plants, but you may not have the greenest thumb, check out this article from Elle Décor on low-maintenance plants that will spruce up your home.
Virtual Tours of National Parks
Open your window for some fresh air and tour some of our wonderful national parks. There’s no reason you should not be able to enjoy American from the comforts of your couch.
Catch Up on your Favorite Show or have a Movie Marathon
You can catch up on your childhood favorites or binge on the hottest new television series through Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, Disney+, or other streaming movie applications.
Play Games
It can be as simple as the daily newspaper crossword puzzle to a 1000-piece jigsaw puzzle, keep your mind sharp by playing games that will challenge your brain.
Free Games Sponsored by AARP
Challenge a friend to Mahjong, test your math knowledge with a Sudoku puzzle, or simply play a game of Spider Solitaire, this free website is full of games to test your skills.
Lumosity
Start training your brain by playing over 60 cognitive games for memory, focus, math, vocabulary, and more - - - personalized for you.
Write a Novel, Maybe your Autobiography or a Movie Script
How to Write a Novel
Always wanted to write the next great American novel? Here is a step by step guide to starting your first novel.
How to Write an Autobiography
For those who have always felt their life should be a book, now is the best time to start penning your life story. Here’s a step by step guide.
How to Write a Movie
Is your life story so unbelievable that not only should it be a book but a movie, too? Learn how to write the next Academy award-winning movie.
Learn More About Poetry and Write a Poem
Poet Laureate
The best way to learn how to write a poem is to study from some of the greatest poets of all time. Learn more about the current and past Poet Laureates and their projects from the Library of Congress.
Where Poetry Lives
Natasha Trethewey, the 19th Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry, participated in a series of reports with PBS NewsHour Senior Correspondent Jeffrey Brown, as part of the show's Poetry Series. These reports, in locations across the country, explored societal issues through poetry's focused lens.
Write a Letter to a Soldier
There are several organizations that connect volunteers with American soldiers serving abroad. You can write letters to soldiers stationed all over the world in need of encouragement, or you can participate in an Adopt a Soldier program that pairs soldiers with a volunteer who can send gifts, food items, letters, books, and more.
Here are a few websites that support this mission:
Operation Gratitude
A Million Thanks
Soldiers' Angels
Start a Journal
How to Start a Journaling Habit
Journal Therapy
Journaling is a great way to reflect and review your day or even your life. Take the time to get to know your inner self.
Organize all Your Family Recipes and Create a Cookbook
Create a Cookbook
Once you have gathered your favorite recipes, utilize this easy to use website to create a personal cookbook that can be printed for your family and friends as gifts.
Let Them Eat Cake! Try a New Baking Recipe
All Recipes
Food Network
CopyKat Recipes
Nothing smells more like home than fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies in the oven. Find the perfect cookie recipe, copy your favorite restaurants, or tweak an existing recipe to create your new favorite dessert. Or, try one of the recipes from Greystar’s Active Adult charity cookbook, where the proceeds go to the local Meals on Wheels.
Transform into a Legendary Chef
Rouxbe
Gordon Ramsay Teaches Cooking
Turn your status from home chef to professional chef by watching the pros transform your grocery list into restaurant-inspired dishes.
Take Time to Plan Your Goals for the Year through a Vision Board
Making a Traditional Vision Board
Making a Digital Vision Board
A vision board is a visualization tool which refers to a board, of any sort, used to build a collage of words and pictures that represent whatever you want to be, do or have in your life.
Create a Scrapbook or Set Up a Digital Picture Frame
Scrapbooking Classes
Digital Scrapbooking
Scrapbooking is a great way to preserve personal and family history for future generations in the form of a book, box, or card. With most photos being digital today, there has been increasing interest in presenting memories through digital media, which can easily be shared with other family members.
Try Your Hand at Origami
Origami 101
Origami Resource Center
Originating in China but popularized in Japan, origami is the art of paper folding. Regarded as art, origami has expanded to incorporate advanced mathematical theories to create complex patterns and shapes.
Start Spring Cleaning
Marie Kondo Organization Tips
100 Organizing Tips
You never realize how much you can accumulate over the course of a year until you decide it is time to clean or reorganize your closet. Kick start the spring season by creating a list of all your items that “spark joy” and those that need to be donated or sold.
Color your World
Free Coloring Pages for Adults
Adult Coloring Pages by Crayola
Coloring is not just for children anymore. Adults are finding it the perfect creative outlet and a great way to unwind, relax, and reduce stress and anxiety levels. Print a few pages and learn why coloring has become so popular.
Break a Sweat to Stay Fit
Silver Sneakers
Streaming Fitness Classes
The Yoga Collective
Just because your local gym or Flex is not open doesn’t mean you can’t get your usual workout in. There are numerous fitness and yoga classes online that can be streamed from your phone, computer, or television.
Indulge in an At-Home Spa Treatment
DIY Home Spa Treatments
Makeovers for Body & Soul
Take some time for yourself and give yourself a manicure or a facial or look through magazines to find a new hairstyle you'd like to try. Decompress from the stress by creating a soothing spa environment in your apartment home.
Find an Old Friend and Reconnect
Facebook
Classmates.com
Even with the best intentions, you can lose track of great friendships. Before you realize, you have not seen a close friend for years. Don’t wait for years to reconnect. With the Internet, it is easy to rekindle those great friendships or even past romances.
Create a Wikipedia Page
Writing an Article on Wikipedia
Did you know Wikipedia was created by users like you? You can help build the online encyclopedia Wikipedia by editing or starting any topic where you have expertise.
Learn Calligraphy
Calligraphy Online Classes
Calligraphy & Hand Lettering for Beginners
Amaze your friends and family when addressing this year’s greeting cards with creative calligraphy writing. Practice, practice, and more practice, and you may find you can turn this side hobby into parttime work doing wedding invitations.
Take Up an Art or Craft Project
Pinterest
You cannot log into Pinterest without being inspired by recipes, home and style inspirations, and beautiful craft ideas. From knitting ideas to learning how to chalk paint an end table, Pinterest can provide hours of in-depth instruction to create a beautiful piece of art.
Listen to Music, or Better Yet, Make Music
Pandora
30 Places to Learn a New Instrument Online
Learn How to Play an Instrument
Whether you are creating your own playlist or learning a new instrument, music can improve your mood, build your brain-power, reduce stress and anxiety, and benefit your overall health and well-being. Pick up a guitar today, so you can strum your way into a better life.
Surf YouTube
YouTube
Instructional videos, movies, today’s news, to watching a kitten play the piano - - - if it can be videotaped, then it is probably on YouTube. As the most popular video-sharing platform, YouTube has billions of videos that have been uploaded by users so they can watch, like, and share videos of themselves or other users.
Write a short thank you (or love note)
Close your email down, pick up a pen and paper, and write a thank you note today. With the commotion of life, we often forget to thank those who have helped us along our journey in life. Express your feelings through written notes, and if you are not the best at written notes, you can always pick up your phone to give thanks.
Overture Active Adult communities, or their parent company Greystar, are not affiliated, associated, authorized, endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with the companies listed in this blog post. This blog post is designed to be a resource and in no way guarantees the quality of service or product of the companies included.
Staying active and healthy means approaching your wellbeing in a variety of ways. At Overture, our active adult communities and apartment homes offer activities and events that contribute to your physical, mental, and emotional wellness, inspiring a fulfilling lifestyle .
Fitness: Meeting Your Physical Goals
Regular exercise gives you more than just visual results. It can help you manage stress levels, better your mood, boost your metabolism and immune system, improve cardiovascular functions , and increase bone density to prevent physical trauma from certain injuries. It’s always a good idea to fuel the mind/body connection, which improves your quality of life.
Fitness goals and methods vary greatly from person to person. That’s why we provide several enjoyable avenues for your personal health achievements and hobbies. Whether it’s through one of our group fitness programs or by independent use of Flex, your state-of-the-art fitness center, work out at your own pace in an inclusive, motivating environment.
Break a sweat fast and log some miles on the treadmill, pump some iron, or show off your moves in our upbeat Zumba classes. If you’re seeking physical and spiritual balance, participate in one of our yoga or Tai Chi classes, held in our Namaste yoga studio.
We encourage participation in unique activities that support your physical fitness. Join the bocce ball team. Take the plunge into water aerobics in your resort-style heated pool. We also value interactive, virtual training using Fitness on Demand or Wii for activities such as bowling, balance, and yoga.
Social: Making Connections
Socializing is another important facet of your health that works wonders for overall wellbeing . Human-to-human interaction provides a means of connection and support, but it’s not always easy to jump right in. At Overture’s apartment home communities, you’ll find an inspiring environment, with open opportunities designed for seamless socializing.
From our social hours to yappy hours with furry friends, there are numerous chances to strike up a conversation and find common ground with your neighbors – and their pups. Food is an automatic draw for many, so enjoy a sumptuous meal at one of our potlucks, where residents experience a genuine sense of belonging. Our demonstration cooking classes orchestrated by cooking companions at Relish could be the right catalyst for new friendships.
Other social activities we know you’ll enjoy are movie nights with popcorn in the Reel Room Theater, card and board games, holiday parties with great food and music, off-site sporting events, and day trips in the surrounding area for a unique cultural experience.
Skills: Pursuing Your Passions
Personal growth starts with pursuing your passions . Whether you’re looking to explore occupational wellness through various career options, get in touch with your inner artist, or lose yourself in a story via a book club, your passions have a place at Overture. Join or feel free to start a drama club, learn some culinary secrets, and get into scrapbooking when you live in one of our active adult communities.
Do you have a passion for learning? Pursue the many subjects you’ve always been attracted to. From computer classes and history courses to writing sessions and ancestry research, there are tons of intellectual avenues to pique your interest.
If you’ve got a green thumb, participate in our recycling programs, on-site herb gardens, composting efforts, eco seminars, and educational programs. See other possible eco-friendly activities , which result from our ongoing environmental stewardship.
Spirituality: Finding Inner Peace
Spiritual wellness is a focus on what you believe in, on the things that work together for meaning, purpose, and growth. While living in one of our communities, explore the mysteries of this life while opening your mind and fulfilling your religious and spiritual needs. Whether you dive into the ancient practice of meditation or study various religious points of view, you can learn more about who you are during this flourishing stage of life.
You can be as active as you desire when living in an Overture community. Let us help you discover your new home.
*Not all amenities and activities are available at every Overture community. Please contact an Overture leasing specialist for details.
**Event attendees may have to pay a small fee to participate.
The traditional model for senior living has overstayed its welcome. That’s why Overture has opened the door to a new way of life for active adults 55 and over. There are so many things that make us not only different, but a terrific new option for today’s lifestyles.
Resort-Style Living
Quality of life is important, and your surroundings and experiences directly affect that. In our active adult apartment homes, you’ll thrive in a modern, upscale environment that inspires connection, personal growth, and overall well being. Daily life in our communities is full of unique opportunities that support lifestyle routines and lifelong passions.
Instead of fretting over home maintenance and property ownership, you can now use your time to explore ways to be active, fulfilled, and healthy in your amenity-rich and activity-filled community.
Active Lifestyle
To us, an active lifestyle means more than walking on a treadmill. It’s about strengthening the mind/body connection, nurturing relationships, and pursuing your passions. Start your day with physical and spiritual balance by practicing yoga and meditation in your namaste studio or taking a dip in your resort-style heated pool, the Plunge, for a soothing swim.
Regular exercise has many benefits, from boosting your metabolism and immune system to improving your mood and helping you manage your stress levels. We value these parts of life and wellness, which is why exercise shouldn’t be a stressful venture. It should be a seamless part of your day. Whether you want to take a Zumba class or create your own workout routine in your state-of-the-art Flex fitness center, your health goals are attainable.
It’s crucial to keep your mind just as active as your body, and there are plenty of ways you can do that while living in your innovative community. If you choose, you can fill your free time with self-improvement via writing classes, history courses, and computer and software lessons. Explore your past via ancestry research and think ahead alongside an expert on financial and estate planning. We’re here for every milestone.
In our uplifting environment, it’s easy to experience a combination of independence and connectedness. With so many opportunities to get involved, you’ll quickly find common ground with neighbors who are similar in mind and stage of life.
Take part in our social hours, yappy hours with furry friends, and game nights with neighbors for a good time. Hone your culinary skills in our group cooking classes, and bring your favorite dish to one of your community potlucks. Day trips and off-site sporting events serve as great ways to interact, bond, and feel a true sense of camaraderie .
Personal Growth
Sometimes, you just need some time alone to reflect on what you believe in and what makes you happy. That’s what spiritual and emotional wellness is about. Our communities promote the exploration of purpose, meaning, and fulfillment, whether that’s through meditation, religious studies, or faith-specific services.
What are you passionate about? If you’re looking to focus on nutrition, we can guide you. If you care about Mother Earth, take part in one of our many eco-friendly initiatives including on-site herb gardens, composting, and recycling. Find your inner artist and true imagination by exploring our many creative outlets and available pursuits.
No matter what your personal health and wellbeing goals are, we’re here to support you at every stage.
*Not all amenities and activities are available at every Overture community. Please contact an Overture leasing specialist for details.
**Event attendees may have to pay a small fee to participate.
Ranked in the top 100 best cities for retirees, Albuquerque New Mexico is a western gem. Famous as the backdrop for the iconic TV series “Breaking Bad”—Albuquerque is an excellent place for active adults to call home. From Overture Albuquerque, the newest jewel in the crown of Overture’s collection of active adult apartment home communities, to an atmosphere that blends art, history, culture and the great outdoors, Albuquerque and retirement are a perfect match. Check out this list of things to do in Albuquerque. As you embark upon retirement planning , you will want to catch the next plane out!
Old Town
The heart of Albuquerque is Old Town, a 10-square block area that is an homage to the three centuries of Native American and Spanish influence. The ancient adobe buildings that house a wide assortment of Southwestern art galleries, shops and restaurants are as captivating as the attractions within. Talented street performers abound, creating a festive vibe.
ABQ BioPark
Welcoming more than 1.5 million enthusiasts per year, the ABQ BioPark just outside of Old Town is considered New Mexico’s premier attraction. Designed to connect people with the environment, the BioPark features countless opportunities for visitors to discover and enjoy the wonders of nature. From the zoo that is home to more than 900 animals from around the world, to the 32-acre Botanic Garden, to a fascinating array of sea life in the aquarium to scenic Tingley Beach, the BioPark is a huge piece of the fabric of Albuquerque.
Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta
Albuquerque’s annual Balloon Fiesta transforms the autumn sky into an enchanted world of color and inspiration. For nine days every October, a global assortment of balloonists power up and fill the skies with almost 600 balloons that launch every morning from the 78 acre Balloon Fiesta Park. The effect is dramatic and spectacular, a true bucket list experience. To avoid the hassle of dealing with parking, take advantage of the $15 advance park and ride option. The cost covers admission to the park.
Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center (IPCC) is designed to preserve and share centuries of Albuquerque’s colorful Pueblo history. Combining the stories of 19 Pueblos of New Mexico, this unique museum provides insight into and understanding of the state’s Native American legacy. The IPCC is known for its collection of Pueblo art as well as its extensive schedule of cultural, educational and community events, that include hands-on children’s programs, perfect for the visiting grandkids.
Sandia Peak Tramway
Hop on the Sandia Peak Tramway and experience the breathtaking scenery of the nearby Sandia Mountains as you travel some three miles up to the 10,378 foot-high mountain summit. Upon arrival, you’re in for spectacular views of the Rio Grande Valley and the Land of Enchantment. Get your Zen on as you hike serene trails at the top. Then enjoy a mountaintop meal at one of Sandia Peak’s several restaurants.
Retirees beware. Albuquerque has a hypnotic effect on visitors. Once you’ve arranged a tour of Overture Albuquerque , you’ll be hooked! Expect the same response from your kids who will want to be frequent guests!
You’ve driven your last carpool, stitched your last Halloween costume, baked your last batch of PTA cookies and the paradigm has permanently shifted. Those little birds that required so much of your time, attention and space have spread their wings, leaving you to ponder your next stage of living.
This time around you are free to roam about the country; free to choose from the best cities for empty nesters, without having to cater to the needs of the kids. So, forget the “right” school systems. Get this empty-nester party started in the location of your dreams. Whether you are looking for a lower cost of living, a different climate, or a complete change of lifestyle, consider one of these best empty nester cities from our favorite’s list to be your next hometown.
Scottsdale, Arizona
Ask ten empty nesters what their favorite thing about Scottsdale is and you’ll get ten different answers. This is truly an empty nester city that checks boxes for everyone. From world-class golf, to a vibrant cultural and restaurant scene to a thriving downtown and waterfront shopping area, Scottsdale is all about living the good life in the sunshine. Mild weather during most of the year makes it an outdoor paradise. When the temperatures soar for a few summer months, there is plenty to do indoors. Take a tour of Overture Kierland , Overture’s active adult apartment home community in Scottsdale and you’ll never want to leave.
Riverside, California
With college students and multiple communities of empty nesters, Riverside is a multi-generational melting pot. Retirees love the host of cultural activities that revolve around the college campus, as well as the 100 or so city landmarks, 20 of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Located only 55 miles from Los Angeles, Riverside boasts quaint small-town living with all the attractions of the big city around the corner. Lovely southern California weather is the icing on the cake. Check out Overture Riverwalk , Overture’s active adult apartment home community in Riverside and see what residents are raving about.
Colorado Springs, Colorado
As a top empty nester city, Colorado Springs comes with a caveat: Must love the outdoors! Golfers, extreme sports enthusiasts, and those empty nesters who just want to enjoy the crisp mountain air are flocking to this charming western city, creating a diverse population that includes sportsmen, history buffs, architects, artists, and foodies. The city of Denver and all it has to offer is but a two-hour car ride away.
Chandler Arizona
Chandler Arizona is another Scottsdale area city that made the list of best empty nester cities. Boasting 330 days of sunshine, Chandler draws retirees from all over the country who have had enough snow and cold to last a lifetime. There is plenty of golf and hiking as well as dining and shopping choices to keep empty-nesters busy. Your family will love its proximity to two major airports as much as its weather.
So, when the kids look at you with worry in their eyes wondering how you will cope with their departure, try to keep a straight face. Don’t tell them you can’t wait to unload the house, find the perfect active adult community, and get on with the business…and pleasure…of the empty nester life!
