Wisdom and Experience

One of the most remarkable aspects of our golden years is the wealth of knowledge and experience that comes with it. Decades of living and learning provide active adults with a unique perspective on life's ups and downs. Whether it's offering sage advice to younger generations or simply relishing in the depth of their own understanding, seasoned adults have a lot to share with the world.

Lifelong Learning

Contrary to the stereotype that learning stops with age, many active adults are avid learners. Retirement often brings newfound opportunities for pursuing passions and interests that were put on hold during the working years. From taking up a new hobby to enrolling in college courses, this can be a time of intellectual growth and self-discovery.

Cherishing Relationships

As we grow older, the importance of meaningful relationships becomes even more apparent. People in their later years often find themselves nurturing family bonds, deepening friendships, and forging new connections within their communities. These connections provide a strong support system and together enhance the quality of life.

Health and Wellness

While seasoned adulthood may bring its share of health challenges, it is also a time when many individuals take steps to prioritize habits that will encourage a continued active lifestyle. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and healthcare maintenance have become integral parts of daily life. Additionally, people in their retirement adventure often adopt mindfulness practices, such as meditation and yoga, to promote mental and emotional well-being.

Retirement Adventures

Retirement can be seen as a passport to new adventures. Many active adults take this opportunity to travel, explore different cultures, and create unforgettable memories. Whether it's a cross-country road trip, a European vacation, or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature, retirement opens doors to exciting possibilities.

Giving Back

People in their golden years often find fulfillment in giving back to their communities. Volunteering, mentoring, and participating in charitable activities are common ways people contribute their time and expertise to causes they care about. This sense of purpose can be deeply rewarding.

The vintage voyage is a chapter of life filled with wisdom, growth, and the opportunity to savor the fruits of one's labor. It's a time to reflect on a life well-lived, to cherish relationships, and to embark on new adventures. Embracing active adulthood means embracing the golden years with open hearts and open minds, making the most of each day, and continuing to contribute to the world in meaningful ways. It's a stage of life that deserves to be celebrated, for it is a testament to the beauty of aging gracefully and with purpose.

Embark on an exhilarating journey into your vibrant later years, filled with cherished memories, fantastic friends, and thrilling new adventures – discover the essence of living at your peak at harborheightsliving.com!

The post A Journey through Active Adulthood appeared first on Harbor Heights Blog.

The Washington State Capitol Building

The Washington State Capitol Building is a stunning architectural marvel and a symbol of the state's government. Visitors can tour the building and learn about its history, artwork, and legislative process. Don's miss beautiful Capital Lake and the gorgeous walking path that surrounds it.

Tumwater Falls Park:

Tumwater Falls Park is a natural oasis in the heart of Olympia. The park features a beautiful waterfall, a salmon hatchery, and walking trails that are perfect for a relaxing stroll.

Percival Landing Park

Percival Landing Park is a waterfront park that offers stunning views of Puget Sound. The park features a boardwalk, public art installations, and a marina that is perfect for boating enthusiasts.

The Olympia Farmers Market

The Olympia Farmers Market is a must-visit destination for foodies and anyone who loves fresh, locally-sourced produce. The market features over 100 vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to baked goods, artisanal cheeses, and handmade crafts.

The Hands On Children's Museum

The Hands On Children's Museum is a fun and educational destination for families with children. The museum features interactive exhibits that teach kids about science, technology, engineering, art, and math.

The Olympia Brewing Company

The Olympia Brewing Company is a historic brewery that was once the largest employer in the city. Visitors can tour the brewery and learn about its fascinating history, as well as sample some of the company's award-winning beers.

Priest Point Park

Priest Point Park is a beautiful natural park that allows visitors to explore the great outdoors. The park features walking trails, picnic areas, and stunning water views.

The Olympia Film Society:

The Olympia Film Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and preserving the art of cinema. The society hosts a range of film screenings and events throughout the year, including the annual Olympia Film Festival.

Whether you're a local or a visitor to Olympia, there are plenty of must-see attractions and hidden gems to explore. From the stunning architecture of the Washington State Capitol Building to the natural beauty of Tumwater Falls Park and Priest Point Park, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. So, check out Harbor Heights and discover all that Olympia offers and create unforgettable memories.

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Take Part in Shared Activities at Harbor Harbor Heights

Active adult communities like Harbor Heights provide opportunities for residents to participate in shared activities, events, and clubs. This fosters a sense of community and helps to build relationships between residents. Harbor Heights hosts clubs, game nights, group exercise classes, and community events to all help bring together our residents.

Find More Opportunities for Social Interaction at Harbor Heights

55+ communities like Harbor Heights offer many opportunities for social interaction and conversation, allowing residents to get to know each other and form lasting relationships. Our building’s shared amenity spaces bring together residents and serve as a hub of social activities. Community social events such as our monthly wine nights also provide residents with perfect reasons to get out of their residences and socialize.

Harbor Heights Brings Together Residents with Common Interests

Active adult communities like Harbor Heights often attract residents with similar interests and hobbies, which can help to bring people together and strengthen their bonds. With its waterfront and downtown location, Harbor Heights is a perfect choice for residents who enjoy spectacular water views and convenience for shopping, dining, and cultural activities. At the property, our amenity spaces are host to activities that cater to specific interests like wine tasting, book clubs, arts and crafts, and games.

Ready to see what Harbor Heights has in store for you? Schedule a tour today!

Click here to schedule a tour.

833.464.5053

The post Ways Active Adult Communities Strengthen Long-Term Relationships appeared first on Harbor Heights Blog.

LoveOLY Winter Fest

LoveOly Winter Fest returns with live music, lights, horse-drawn carriage rides, and more this year! The Shop & Dine Promotion is back and runs through Christmas Eve. Download your passport on the LoveOly website and pick one up at any participating shop or restaurant. Make sure you are camera-ready before you head out! There will be festive selfie stations set up throughout downtown.

Shop Locally this Holiday Season

Amazon may deliver, but they certainly lack downtown Olympia’s charm! Enjoy the twinkling holiday lights and hundreds of feet of garland throughout downtown while you shop the many local businesses. Be sure to visit our friends at Browsers Bookshop and Bittersweet Chocolates for gifts for others, or yourself! The Olympia Farmer’s Market is open through the holiday season and features plenty of giftable items from local artisans. Don’t forget gifts for your four-legged family members. Stop by Mudd Bay for all your pets’ holiday treats. Shopping downtown has an added perk during the holiday season! If you choose to drive, parking is free from December 15-26.

The Nutcracker at Washington Center

Watch the classic ballet battle between mice and soldiers at the Nutcracker performance at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts. The Nutcracker is presented by Ballet Northwest and runs weekends through December 18^th. Purchase tickets here. Like every holiday season, the Washington Center for the Performing Arts will make it “snow” every hour outside their iconic building.

Visit Harbor Heights

We will also participate in the merry-making this holiday season at Harbor Heights! Our building is decked out with holiday decorations, and our residents can look forward to a festive Wine Wednesday event featuring a photo booth, baked potato bar, gift exchange, and ugly sweater contest!

Don’t miss the fun! Register for a tour today, and ask about our current special on Residence 419, a pet-friendly apartment home!

833.464.5053

The post Experience the Magic of the Holiday Season in Downtown Olympia appeared first on Harbor Heights Blog.

Experiences Over Stuff

When you can release the burden of maintaining a large household full of things and spaces that require time to manage and regular upkeep, that leaves more time to create new memories and have more experiences. Even without a global pandemic putting a damper on some activities, many people find that experiences bring them more fulfillment than acquiring more stuff, and scientific studies back this sentiment. Research published in the Journal of Positive Psychology reveals that people who spend money on experiences rather than material goods are happier overall. Get out and experience more at Harbor Heights where our low-maintenance apartment homes make it easy for residents to explore their local area or venture further on extended international travel or cruises.

Built-in Community

One of the best benefits of living in a 55+ community like Harbor Heights is the built-in community you will experience as a new resident. Harbor Height has a close-knit group of residents who regularly gather for community events, yoga classes, BINGO, poker nights, film festivals, mahjong, Wine Wednesdays, and other activities. Recently, our residents came together on an August Saturday morning to walk around Capitol Lake to raise money for a local animal rescue, Concern for Animals.

Life in the Middle of it all Downtown

It’s all happening downtown, Olympia! This growing and vibrant capital city offers a wide variety of cultural activities, local dining options, quaint shops, and the famous Olympia Farmers Market. In addition, many festivals and events take place in the city throughout the year, like the recent Harbor Days Festival, Capital Lakefair, Olympia Brew Fest, art walks, and the Downtown For the Holidays events.

One-Bedroom Residence Specials

Harbor Heights offers special discounts with up to hundreds off monthly rent for select residences and leases. We have just a few remaining homes available and would love to schedule a tour for you to view them and secure your new spot for active 55+ living. Click here to schedule a tour.

833.464.5053

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The American Psychological Association's Stress in America survey states nearly 40 percent of those aged 35-54 report extreme levels of stress (compared to 29 percent of 18-34 year olds and 25 percent of those older than 55). This stress takes a toll on personal relationships as well as a person's well-being as they struggle to take better care of themselves.

The stress of the sandwich is both emotional and financial. According to the New York Times article in 2020: The Sandwich Generation Pays a Price, if you think you’ll become your parents’ caretaker in the future, experts suggest that you start talking to them about their financial situation now because it may take years for them to be willing to accept your help.

The following includes several tips for those considered a part of the Sandwich Generation:

1. Assist parents in downsizing and organizing their home to keep things simple and organized.

   1. If time and finances allow, consider storage solutions and options when moving into a smaller space

   2. Hire a home organizer to declutter

2. Develop a long-term care solution that reduces your stress

   1. Consider a 55+ active community that will keep social activities and sets the stage for building a longer-term community of friends

   2. Take time out for yourself to recharge and keep self-care a top priority

3. Stay active and share the load

   1. When possible, find pockets of time to take a walk, listen to music while exercising and get outdoors to refresh your body and mind.

   2. Reach out to family, friends and neighbors who are willing to help and can offer you breaks in caregiving responsibilities

4. Actively integrate multi-gen relationship-building activities. For example, your teenager can check in on their grandparents, help run errands or schedule fun family game nights including other friends, family to the mix to increase social interaction and some serious memory making opportunities like:

   1. Creating a family tree album with fun family stories and unique facts about family member personalities, complete with photos

   2. Q&A with grandma and grandpa to capture keep insights on their past and family history

   3. Create a family cookbook of special recipes and even cook them together for the larger family to enjoy.

The main key for generation “Sand” is to have hope and stay positive during the challenging times of caregiving. This season only lasts for a time and there are so many rewarding experiences that will come to you in this process. Having a support network will help in navigating and knowing others in your peer group that are also in the same situation is an important factor and can ultimately build stronger communities.

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At Harbor Heights, we often describe ourselves as “active 55+” but what does that really mean? Quite simply, we’re not going to lose it, we are going to use it! Staying active should always be a priority – especially when you cross the proverbial threshold of over 50 years old (See what we did there? Vs. using the words aging, retirement or baby boomers). Regular exercise slows the aging process, works out the mind and body, relieves stress, and keeps the immune system in tip-top shape. According to Dr. David B. Agus, the author of The End of Illness, he states that in addition to wearing comfortable shoes and eating lunch at the same time every day, activity with our body, and consistently moving it, are keys to living a longer life. The book offers simple and inexpensive advice as well as fascinating research about reducing inflammation in the body and taking a proactive approach to staying healthy. If you read to keep your brain active, you may also want to explore these other titles on building more active bodies.

Moving to a community that is considered mature, 55+ and even ultra-wise is just the beginning to increase activity levels and even exercise. There are plenty of ways to stay active right here at Harbor Heights and around Olympia. See below for a few of our favorite ideas!

• Bocce ball! Ever played? It’s easy and fun. You can find bocce ball sets online just about anywhere. Get together a group of people, find a grassy area and it’s game on! You can even set up a round robin tournament to really get people into the competition.
• Gardening, though not exactly high-intensity cardio, is a great activity that gets you up and out into the sunshine. Our community has a gardening club, you can reach out to our concierge desk for more information.
• Dreaming of Wimbledon?  Tennis is a great workout for all ages. It’s a total body exercise and also strengthens the legs and arms. Grab a friend or three (for a doubles match) and get a rally started. Just have fun volleying the ball back and forth across the net or get more competitive and start a league of your own! Woodruff Park Tennis Court and Volleyball Court is located at 1500 Harrison Ave NW, Olympia, WA 98502 and the courts there are rarely used.
• Swimming, like tennis, is an all-body workout for people of any age. It’s a very low impact sport, so you won’t be feeling the aches in your bones and the strains in your joints. It’s also a very cathartic exercise and can really help you to stave off stress. Do some laps, grab a kickboard and do some kicking, grab some fins to really propel yourself through the water, do some water aerobics with friends in the shallow end, etc. Even just walking back and forth from wall to wall in the shallow end is a great exercise for your legs with very little negative impact on the joints. Check out these local watering holes.
• Volunteering—staying active doesn’t necessarily have to mean that you are working out your muscles and sweating up a storm every day. But if you want to, our fitness center located on the 3rd floor is ready and waiting! If it becomes too crowded or you want something less intensive, staying active can be as simple as getting on your feet and volunteering a few times a week.  You may consider helping out in the local library or local homeless shelter. What about organizing a talent night where residents can perform and even invite family members to come show off their talents? That planning and preparation will certainly get you up and active!
• Go for a walk or a jog. Most 55-plus communities offer golf, walking trails or some sort of local paths. We have Percival landing and lots of options for walking paths or jaunts in running shoes along the water. Consider finding a walking buddy and set a time two or three days a week (or as often as you want!) to meet up at a designated area and do some power walking! It’s a great exercise, a great time for catching up, and a great way to meet others. Plus, we are about to be a part of a fun run and walk. The Hawks Prairie Community Association which encompasses both Edgewater and Jubilee will be putting on a Fun Run/Walk on Saturday September 4th starting at 9:00 a.m.

No matter what it is you’re doing – swimming laps, volunteer activities, shuffleboard, croquet, corn hole – what matters is the fact that you’re getting and staying active. We welcome you to get your steps in and come tour Harbor Heights to see what our community offers for staying active at all ages. Click here to schedule a tour.

The post Use it or lose it: Staying Active at 55+ appeared first on Harbor Heights Blog.

Feed Your Foodie Soul

Olympia is full of unique restaurants, local produce, and lively hangouts. Whether you’re looking for an area to find the best produce, the freshest seafood in town, or a romantic dinner with your special someone, there’s something for every occasion.

• Cynara 
  Luckily for us, we have several delicious dining options steps away from Harbor Heights. Cynara Restaurant & Lounge is one of the favorite options, especially for resident Libby. Serving up regionally sourced seafood, produce, and spirits, they are conveniently located on our building's first floor at 500 Columbia.
• Olympia Farmers Market
  The Olympia Farmers Market is right around the corner from Harbor Heights, open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays 10 am – 3 pm. With over 100 local vendors, an estimated 400,000 visitors per year, it is the perfect local excursion to grab a lunchtime snack, pick up some fresh produce or search for a special artisan gift.
• Olympia Oyster House
  Located in the same building where the native Olympia Oysters were culled in 1859, The Olympia Oyster House is the perfect spot for fresh coastal cuisine. The fun and casual atmosphere is a favorite of residents Sally and Jim.
• Budd Bay Café
  Budd Bay Cafe has been an iconic Percival Landing restaurant since 1988 and is locally owned. Both owners proudly live in Olympia and have a proven recipe for success. They offer varied menu selections with fresh ingredients, friendly service, and a gorgeous waterfront atmosphere.
• Gardner’s Restaurant
  Gardner’s is a local favorite place to dine in Olympia. They strive to use fresh and seasonal ingredients. Everything is created from scratch, including soups and sauces to an abundance of desserts. Resident Marcia is a huge fan of Gardner’s and highly recommends their scallops!

Get Active

There are plenty of options for our more adventurous residents looking for an activity that gets them outside this summer. From a day on the water to trying a few sunny weathered sports, there’s no shortage of outdoor endeavors.

• Tugboat Annie’s Kayak Rentals
  Offering convenient and affordable rentals, Tugboat Annie's lets you adventure around the Puget Sound in a truly Pacific Northwest fashion. Stop in the restaurant afterward for delicious burgers, seafood, and shakes!
• Olympia Country & Golf Club
  Tee up at Olympia's 18-hole champion course with incredible views overlooking Budd Inlet. With membership options to use the clubhouse, pool, and dock, in addition to a pro shop and dining options, Olympia Country & Golf Club can provide an entire day full of activities.
• Woodruff Park
  With over two acres, Woodruff Park is home to basketball, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and a grass volleyball court, perfect for picking up a new sport or brushing up on an old one. After a challenging match, set up for a day of relaxation or sunny lunch in the picnic areas.

A Walk in the Park

Whether a quick stroll or a picnic lunch, the parks in Olympia are perfect for a day of soaking up the sun. Explore the nearby trails with a more rigorous hike then pick a grassy spot for reading a book in one of the beautiful public parks.  

• Watershed Park
  Although there are many beautiful locations nearby to hike, Watershed Park is a temperate rainforest public park with fantastic trails for all experience levels. Spring branches braid through the skunk cabbages, and salmonberries lead to Moxlie Creek Springs Basin, one of the largest spring basins in the region.
• Percival Landing Park
  Located across from Harbor Heights on the east side of Budd Bay on the southernmost tip of Puget Sound, Percival Landing Park is a hub for gatherings, social interaction, and public celebrations. It not only contributes to the economic vitality of the central business district, but also holds historical and cultural significance to the community. Take a stroll on the boardwalk and enjoy the art walk with local art and galleries, along with beautiful views of Puget Sound and the Cascade Mountains!

The activities are truly endless within minutes of your condo. From finding a new local dining hangout, exploring the outdoors in your hiking boots, or playing a round of golf, the opportunities are all within minutes. With summer on the horizon, our expert team at Harbor Heights is here to guide you in all your Olympia adventures.

The post A Summer to Celebrate appeared first on Harbor Heights Blog.

If you are a part of the greatest generation or are 55+ and now are experiencing the joy of grandkids or perhaps still enjoying a productive career, now is a good time to consider your next steps. Chances are, your living situation of 20 years ago isn’t the right fit for your lifestyle today. You may have lived in a suburban environment, are planning on selling your home, or just want something new! The idea that people need to move to small, cramped homes and “downsize” is quickly being replaced with the philosophy of “rightsizing,” which is finding the right size of home for your needs.

Downsizing has one definition: to move to a smaller space because of life changes or requirements. While this may be the right move for some people, downsizing starts with one goal in mind and doesn’t consider the unique needs of the individual.

Rightsizing is updating your living space based on your current life needs. Between the many careers, hobbies, family, and activity changes that we experience today, it makes sense to find the right home for you. You can choose between a larger or smaller home, a different floor plan, different amenities, and more. Rightsizing provides the opportunity to find a new community and align your lifestyle with your living space.

Rightsizing simply means shifting your surroundings to suit your needs and facilitate a simpler lifestyle. Want a place you can lock, leave and travel? Want to say goodbye to a space that requires a lot of yard maintenance? Time to focus on the benefits of an adjusted perspective, rather than on getting rid of things. This mindset opens up more possibilities and will increase your quality of life.

This process starts with a few quick and easy assessments that lead to action.

Make a Check-List
The first is to start dreaming about your next chapter of life. Think about the things you enjoy doing and start putting together a wish list for your new place. This will give you more structure when it comes to exploring your options. Have items you want to save, but not sure where they will go in a new space? Consider storage solutions that will free your mind. A great resource is the book: https://www.amazon.com/Rightsize-Right-Now-Declutter-Stress-Free/dp/0738218014

Expand Your Options
Cities across the country, from New York to Portland from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, are realizing the importance of providing first-class, luxury living spaces that catch a buyers’ eye. For example, Harbor Heights features a full cinema room with luxury seating and sound system, an outdoor sky terrace with views for miles in all directions, a fitness center and a maritime bar. Start exploring the options in your city and beyond to really get a feel for what you want and where you’re willing to call home. It may make sense to trade a hot summer for a more temperate one or escape the cold to somewhere warmer.

Make a move.
Though it can feel like a big step, letting go of a living situation that no longer serves you to embrace something completely new is rewarding. Saying goodbye to a beloved home with great memories is never easy. There are ways to ease into a transition like this vs. having it feel like a band-aid has been stripped away. Once you find the perfect place, take action in securing the spot so you don’t miss your opportunity. Making the leap toward rightsizing won’t be a move you’ll regret.

Making the decision to update your living spaces based on your current lifestyle is exciting! Instead of limiting yourself by simply looking for a home that’s smaller, take the time to think about what you want. This could mean maintaining the size of your home but moving into a home half the size of your current one, in a better, more walkable and friendly neighborhood. It could even mean getting a bigger home that suits your needs. Whatever rightsizing means for you, making the transition will help align your desires with your surroundings and have you breathing a sigh of relief when you step foot in your new home.

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Why 55+ vs. Assisted Living?

As people are living longer, they are looking for a higher quality of life as they age. While most assisted living can offer the care that many seniors do need, Harbor Heights is looking to create an environment for those 55+ looking for that next step in life that is still independent and active. Living in this community provides older adults a second chance to live life to the fullest through developing new relationships, trying out new hobbies, and having the freedom to travel without worrying about a large home to take care of. The Columbia Hospitality team at Harbor Heights aims to build relationships with the residents, where helpful team members are just a phone call away. With a la carte pricing for maintenance and housekeeping services, residents can choose how much help they need while staying financially conscious.

Just as Camron and Jeremiah were concerned about their parents’ future, Harbor Heights offers a space that will be a relief for adult children worried about their aging parents. Not only is there less hassle with apartment living, but the Columbia Hospitality team at Harbor Heights will also work with each family to ensure that their new space feels like home. Not only do the units allow you to curate your own style, but they’ll provide a place where families will want to visit and spend time together.
 

Staying Active in Olympia

Harbor Heights’ location lends itself to a lifestyle that is active, engaging, and even adventurous for those who seek it. With a quick trip down the elevator, residents find themselves in the heart of downtown and the harbor front, with art walks, elevated dining, unique shopping, and the bounty of the local region at The Olympia Farmers Market. For those that are no longer driving or just looking to live a simpler lifestyle without a car, Harbor Heights provides easy access to anything one may need. The prime location in the heart of Market District allows residents to continue to check items off their bucket list, with opportunities to take classes in sailing, kayaking, and other water activities right on the boardwalk.

With a more manageable residence, this rightsizing move is perfect for those looking to have the flexibility to travel. Or, for those looking to start a new life in Olympia, Harbor Heights provides the space for communal activity. The expansive rooftop patio with stunning 180-degree water views is the ideal backdrop to reflect on the day, enjoy friendships, soak up another sunset, and make plans for tomorrow. The private outdoor space offers lounge and grilling areas, tranquil gardens, and fire bowls for gathering. There is also plenty of room to take Rover for a stroll or a spot to try some morning Tai Chi. However, if you’re looking to live your life, there are options for all.
 

Young at Heart

A life at Harbor Heights is one that doesn’t have to slow down because of your age. With the option to continue your crafts in your home or explore the local scene, these beautiful waterfront residences are the perfect next step for anyone 55 and up.

Harbor Heights provides the opportunity to:

• Create your own space with help from the attentive team whenever needed
• Ease the stress of adult children wondering what’s next for their aging parents
• Continue living an active style in the pedestrian-friendly, marina-side Market District of Olympia
• Connect with the community through resident activities, communal areas, and new relationships.

The Harbor Heights Columbia Hospitality team functions as your concierge and engages daily with residents. Harbor Heights’ vision offers community and looks to give them a new life full of excitement, family, and adventure.

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