News
Six tips for staying fit over 50
27
Nov
Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and good sleep habits are vital for over 50s but most aren’t doing enough of it, according to the experts.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics shows only one in three (33.4 percent) of people aged over 65 years old have met the latest physical activity guidelines.
According to health and fitness coach, Josh Kristenson, that’s not good news.
“Especially when you consider all the health conditions that can be prevented or managed with regular exercise,” he said. “These include heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, stroke, and high blood pressure – all chronic diseases that have increased risk of developing with age.
“Even if you’re not naturally athletic, there are ways to keep fitness fun to get back into exercise if it’s something you’ve been neglecting, which is something we’re all guilty of at some point!
“Overall fitness and reduced risk of disease are just some of the benefits. Exercise can boost your social connections and help you make friends too.”
Josh...
27
Nov
Better budget tips for travelling in retirement
More time to travel is one of the biggest benefits of reaching retirement age.
In fact, two-thirds of all older Australians intend to go on a holiday within the next 12 months. And for those with an income over $100,000 to spend, that number shoots up to 88 percent, according to COTA’s 2023 State of the Older Nation report.
Cheap retirement travel tips
For many retired Australians, a trip to Europe is the number one bucket list destination followed quickly by seeing more of our own country.
The Australian Seniors 2022 Travel Trends Report says older Australians don’t mind budget destinations, but they weren’t afraid to splash out either.
When you’re on a fixed income, is there a way to enjoy more holiday for your dollar? The answer is a resounding yes.
Look for free events
Take the time to really research your destinations. You might be pleasantly surprised to discover how many fascinating things you can do that are absolutely free! Look for local festivals, markets...
26
Nov
An exercise in creativity – Fun and free ways to get fit
When most people think of working out, they think specifically of a gym, weights, or running. But you can stay fit and active in a way that really doesn't feel like work.
In fact, some of the best ways to get your body moving really can be found outdoors, where you can immerse yourself in nature or discover your surroundings while staying active, says health and fitness coach, Josh Kristenson.
“Take a walk along the beach, for example,” he said. “Walking on sand naturally calls upon your legs, core, and balance. This is one workout that gives your whole body a workout without feeling like you're grinding it out on an exercise machine.
“Plus, the sound of the waves and the fresh sea air lend a soothing and relaxing quality. Research even shows that being near water – ‘blue space’ – can help reduce anxiety and boost your mood. It's exercise without it feeling like exercise at all.”
For those more inclined toward bushwalking,...
26
Nov
What retirement living options are there?
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...
28
Oct
Vegan style pumpkin a perfect palate pleaser
WHEN YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A RECIPE THAT’S HEARTY AND SUITABLE FOR ALL OCCASIONS, YOU CAN’T GO PAST STUFFED ROASTED PUMPKIN.
“Stuffed roasted pumpkin is a beautiful and hearty meal; perfect as a dish for a special occasion or as a Christmas side dish to complement a big spread,” said Chef Matt Conquest.
“It makes for an impressive centrepiece and is packed with savoury flavours and textures. This vegan dish is a delicious and wholesome meal. It is also hearty, festive, and can be easily switched up to suit your taste by using different grains, nuts, or vegetables!”
Vegan-style Whole Roasted Pumpkin
Serves 5-6
Ingredients
1 medium-sized pumpkin (or use 2 small sugar pie pumpkins for different fillings)
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Filling:
1 cup quinoa or white and wild rice, cooked
1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins
1/2 cup walnuts, pecans, pumpkin seeds or pistachios, roughly chopped
1 small red onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp...
28
Oct
Competition over! The road to recovery after a major event
TAKING PART IN A MAJOR FUN RUN OR PHYSICALLY CHALLENGING EVENT INSPIRES MANY ACTIVE AND SPORTS-MINDED RESIDENTS TO STEP UP TO THE PLATE BUT WHAT HAPPENS ONCE THE EVENT IS OVER?
How do you think you would fare after the event wrapped up and what should you do to recover from all that extra training and competing
Health and Lifestyle Coordinator Josh Kristenson has some great tips to put you back on the road to recovery after the competition is over.
“The fun of competition lies in the thrill of the chase, but the days that follow may leave your body needing a little TLC,” said Josh.
He said that recovery is not only essential to get you back to feeling like yourself, but also prepares you for the next exciting activity.
The good news is Living Gems has some of the world's best recovery facilities to help you regenerate after a competition.
One of the best recovery methods is to spend some time in the...
28
Oct
A dish to make pasta lovers rejoice
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 2-4
Ingredients
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
Method
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil....
19
Sep
Top travel close to home
There’s more to explore in South East Queensland
From ancient rain forests, stunning beaches to breathtaking mountains and incredible countryside, the south-east corner of Queensland (and northern New South Wales) has so much to offer.
We’ve created a list of favourite destinations, each of which makes a comfortable day trip from Brisbane. However, why not pack up and make a real holiday of it? Make it a multi-day roadtrip north to Harvey Bay, west to Kingaroy, south to Stanthorpe and east to Byron Bay. Spend one day in each location or spend several to really soak up the atmosphere!
Noosa
This trendy destination is popular for good reason. Noosa is surrounded by stunning beaches, lakes, and the lush hinterland of Noosa National Park. And forget Florida in the USA, you can explore the only other everglades in the world. The Noosa everglades is home to an abundance of birdlife (and no alligators or crocodiles!). The region also boasts unique shopping and world-class dining experiences...
19
Sep
Personal touch transforms a house into a home
Having recently downsized from a very large house at Mount Warren, former bankers John and Rose-Marie Sullivan are loving the lifestyle at Amber by Living Gems and have enjoyed personally styling their brand-new home.
“We’ve been busy putting our stamp on our wonderful new house to make it our home,” Rose-Maree said.
“A great feature of the Amber design is the practical entrance which we’ve styled to encourage you to drop your bag, hang your coat and stow your umbrella. We’ve enhanced this space by adding a windswept mural wallpaper.”
The avid world travellers, who share a special love of Italy, have many mementos collected over the years which they’ve incorporated into their styling.
“Our dining and lounge suites were designed in Italy, while the wallpaper mural in our dining room allows us to feel like we are dining in Tuscany every day and it is certainly a conversation starter.
“The design of our home, along with the relaxed Amber lifestyle, lends itself perfectly to...
19
Sep
Your guide on how to plan for retirement
What type of retirement lifestyle would you like to have? What type of retirement lifestyle can you afford?
Those are the two big questions to answer when you’re looking forward to your retirement years.
But where on earth do you begin?
We’ve taken this big topic and broken it down so you can get a better understanding of subjects like:
Superannuation preservation age
Transition to retirement
The aged pension, and
Government incentives to encourage downsizing
It’s important to note that retirement is a big step, so it is wise to seek professional and legal advice before committing to any decision.
A little background on the Australian Superannuation Guarantee
Since 1 July 1992, Australia has had the Superannuation Guarantee, in which employers were obliged to make superannuation contributions on behalf of their employees' compulsory superannuation.
Since 1992 the Super Guarantee has risen from 3 percent to 11.5 percent as of 2024 – and as the percentage increased over the years, so too has the preservation age.
Let’s take a...
18
Sep
How does your garden grow?
What to plant in spring?
It’s warming up, which means it’s the ideal time for your gardens to flourish.
What you plant in spring though, will depend on the climate and soil conditions of where you live.
If you live at Amber by Living Gems in beautiful Logan Village, flowers, fruit trees, vegetables and herbs can all be planted in early spring.
You don't need much space to cultivate smaller-sized vegetables if you have a relatively sunny spot.
Hanging baskets, pots and small planters, raised vegie gardens, or self-watering courtyard planters are good. Just watch your water upkeep as soil can dry out very fast in the heat, and that will spell the end for your plant quickly. Some homeowners also opt for vertical gardens such as solar-powered, self-watering hydroponic set-ups.
September plants ideal for smaller gardens in humid sub-tropical climates of Queensland include:
Flowers that bring a spring to your step
Spring gardens are a treat for the senses, bursting with colours and sweet aromas. Popular flower...
