Downsizing is often associated with giving up space, but what if it’s actually about gaining opportunities? Embracing the idea of downsizing can open the door to a host of benefits, especially if you’re planning for retirement. In fact, a right-sized home might be the key to unlocking new adventures and possibilities that could reshape your retirement in ways you hadn’t imagined.   A rightsized home for your lifestyle As you look ahead to retirement, it’s essential to ask: How do you want to spend this phase of your life? The answers may surprise you. For many Australians, travel tops the list. In fact, a study from Equip Super found that 71 percent of retirees plan to prioritise seeing the world when they leave the workforce. But what if your current home doesn’t fit this lifestyle? A large, empty house can become a burden when you're on the move, potentially worrying about security and maintenance while you’re away. Downsizing to a more manageable home, such as one in...

“Has anyone seen where I’ve left my car keys?”Don’t worry, it’s not a sign of dementia, these small bits of memory loss are common to everyone.But did you know that you can improve your memory, and it can be a lot of fun too? We have seven practical tips to boost your brainpower and keep your memory sharp. Understanding how memory works Before we explore memory-boosting tips, let’s quickly understand how memory operates.Our memory can be divided into three types:Short-term memory – This holds information for just a few seconds, like remembering a phone number long enough to write it down. Working memory – This lets you hold and manipulate information, such as recalling directions while you’re on the way somewhere or summing up prices in your head. Long-term memory – This is where information is stored for long periods, from your childhood memories to things you’ve memorised through repetition.By practicing and reinforcing information, we can help short-term memories make their...

Renewing romance The desire for love and companionship among over-50s singles is strong, with many seeking connections both for romance and friendship.According to a survey by the 60 Plus Club, 63 percent of older singles prioritise companionship over romance.Additionally, online dating has become a common method of meeting people, with the majority of those surveyed having tried dating apps, though many are still open to meeting potential partners in real life or through friends’ social circles.For those over 50 looking to date, experts suggest considering a few key points. Date with intention First, it's important to determine your own dating goals. Are you looking for serious commitment, or are you more interested in friendships? Setting clear intentions helps manage expectations and ensures more fulfilling connections.Additionally, creating opportunities to meet others through hobbies, social activities, and community involvement can increase the chances of finding someone with shared interests. Create connection slowly Patience is also advised when entering a new relationship. Building a connection over time, enjoying...

VALENTINE’S DAY IS THE PERFECT OCCASION TO CELEBRATE LOVE AND TOGETHERNESS WITH A DISH THAT’S AS VIBRANT AND REFRESHING AS THE SEASON.Chef Matt Conquest says what better way to indulge your loved one than with a Summer Fruit Terrine with Lime and Mint Syrup and Cream?“This dessert combines the natural sweetness of summer’s finest fruits with a zesty, herbaceous syrup that delights the palate. Light, colourful, and bursting with flavour, this treat is not only a feast for the tastebuds but is also a stunning centrepiece for your romantic celebration!,” he said.Whether enjoyed after dinner or as a refreshing midday indulgence, it’s a heartfelt way to share a moment of sweetness, according to Matt. INGREDIENTS 6 sheets leaf gelatine or 3 tsp powered gelatine, use as per pack directions 1/4 cup (60 ml) vodka, gin or your favourite spirit, you can add a fruit juice instead 200 g caster sugar 250 g strawberries, washed, trimmed and quartered 250 g raspberries, washed 250 g blueberries, washed 250 g blackberries,...

Planning ahead for retirement is an exciting time. Looking ahead, you’re probably thinking about having the time to do all those sports, activities and hobbies that had to take a back seat to work and raising a family.And unless your hobbies are landscaping, pool maintenance, house clearing and repairs, you might well be thinking about downsizing to a new home which is low maintenance and close to everything important to you.You might be surprised to know that there are different residential options for retirees and the right choice will depend on your circumstances.  What is a retirement village? Retirement villages can either be run by for-profit companies or not-for-profit organisations and charities. They range in scope from independent living units such as a duplex, through to apartments or hostel-style properties with shared facilities.They are designed for older retirees who may feel the need for additional social or medical support and can be near more advanced medical support services. Pros One of the benefits of...

ENLIGHTENED COOKS FROM THE 1770S WHO BEGAN COMBINING PASTA AND EGGS TOGETHER, ARE CREDITED FOR LEADING THE WAY WHEN IT COMES TO THE CARBONARA WE ENJOY TODAY. “Most Italian pasta dishes are light and full of flavour. They make very tasty and satisfying meals and one of the most popular is pasta carbonara,” said GemLife Chef Matt Conquest. “It is often mistaken as a cream-based dish, but it is thickened with an egg and cheese mixture,” said Matt. “Adding a little pasta water gives it that creamy look and it’s delicious!” Chef Matt said modern carbonara was created in Italy in the 1960s, when bacon was replaced with guanciale (or pancetta or prosciutto), and cream was eliminated in favour of pecorino cheese and beaten eggs. Pasta Carbonara   Serves 2-4Ingredients 500g spaghetti or fettuccine 250g pancetta or prosciutto 2 large eggs 1 large egg yolk 1 cup grated pecorino or parmesan cheese Freshly ground black pepper Salt, for pasta water MethodCook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil....

  World Rivers Day, which is held to highlight the importance of rivers, the benefits they provide and the threats they face, will be celebrated on 29 September. What better time is there to explore the Logan River so close to Amber by Living Gems! The Logan River is steeped in history and is a rich resource and place of spiritual significance for traditional custodians including peoples of the Yuggera and Yugambeh language groups. In early European settlement days, the river was also important to the area’s establishment and growth. Today, the Logan River draws people of all ages who enjoy walks, water activities, and learning more about its history. There are many great ways to enjoy a day out on or near the Logan River. The Logan City Council hosts the following walking, canoe and kayak trail experiences: Logan River Parkland The Red Bridge stands strong as a defining landmark of Logan. When it opened in 1931, the Red Bridge provided nearby communities with a...

With longer, warmer days, spring is the perfect time to revamp your fitness routine. And with World Heart Day falling on 29 September, you have an extra incentive to improve your cardiovascular fitness.“Cardiovascular exercise is a cornerstone of maintaining health and vitality, especially as we embrace an active lifestyle at Living Gems,” says experienced personal trainer Josh Kristenson.Here are his tips to make the most of your fitness using facilities both inside your Living Gems gym or out in the wider community. Treadmills Walking or jogging on the treadmill is a fantastic way to boost your cardiovascular health. Start with a brisk walk and gradually increase the intensity as your fitness improves. For those seeking a more challenging workout, interval training —alternating between high and low intensity — can significantly enhance your endurance and burn more calories. Exercise bikes Cycling is a low-impact exercise that's gentle on the joints, making it perfect for all fitness levels. Our exercise bikes offer a range of settings,...

Pretty as a picture! Living Gems’ popular photo competition returns for 2024.We’re looking for creative photographs that showcase why the Living Gems lifestyle is simply lifechanging.They can be terrific travel destinations, wonderful wildlife photography or fabulous times with friends. Entries open to all Living Gems homeowners.The best photograph each month will be featured on the back page of Thrive magazine as well as on Living Gems’ Facebook page.Get snapping! The competition will run until 1 November 2024. Submissions should be sent to [email protected] June Photo Winner Jay sent us this evocative photograph of the old rail bridge just outside of Tenterfield in New South Wales. This heritage-listed bridge was built in 1888, inspired by Cornish viaducts designed by renowned British engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, who is best known for the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol.Guidelines for submitting your photosPhotos must be:Be taken by you Be at least 2MB in size Include the location of the photograph, along with any interesting information...

  Beef up your winter menu As the winter chill sets in, there’s nothing quite like cosying up with your loved ones over a comforting, hearty meal.Chef Matt Conquest says his One Pot Baked Beef and Barbecue Beans recipe is the perfect solution. The dish is not only simple to whip up but packs a healthy punch, delivering a satisfying kick of spices to tantalise your taste buds. Best of all, using just one pot saves on the washing up too! Ingredients 400 g beef mince 1 medium onion, diced 1 green capsicum, diced 1 tsp herb and garlic seasoning 4 slices bacon, chopped and pan cooked until crisp 1 can beans, Matt recommends a Mexican three-bean mix ½ cup barbecue sauce 1 tbsp Mexican spice or USA-style spice mix(serves 2) MethodPreheat oven to 180 degrees C. In a heavy bottom, oven-safe pot (like a Dutch oven) over medium heat, add ground beef, onion, capsicum, garlic seasoning. Cook until the mince is browned. Drain the excess liquid. Add cooked bacon crumbles,...

Fresh and savoury treat perfect for autumn As the cool of autumn starts to feel its way in, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a light yet satisfying meal such as San Choy Bau lettuce wraps, according to Chef Matt Conquest.“A delightful fusion of textures and flavours these delicious Chinese lettuce wraps promise to invigorate your taste buds,” he said.This recipe combines the freshness of crisp lettuce with a savoury filling, creating a dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. Whether you’re looking for a quick and light dinner option or a flavourful appetizer, this easy-to-make dish is sure to become a favourite. Ingredients For the mince filling1 tbsp vegetable oil 1 onion, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 250g chicken mince 1 carrot, finely diced or grated 1 red capsicum, finely diced 1/4 cup water chestnuts, finely chopped 2 tbsp soy sauce 1 tbsp oyster sauce 1 tbsp hoisin sauce 1 tsp sesame oil Salt and pepper to taste 1 long red chilli, sliced (optional) 2 spring onions, thinly sliced (for garnish) 2 tbsp chopped peanuts...