Kelley Hamilton of Bonaventure on Simple Ways to Stay Healthy and Happy

As the chief executive officer, Kelley Hamilton of Bonaventure Senior Living oversees the company’s budgets and schedules on regular basis. In this capacity Kelley Hamilton of Bonaventure also makes sure that residents receive the best assisted-living care possible. Kelley Hamilton and Bonaventure staff provide regular activities, gourmet dining, exercise rooms, community involvement, and many other perks to keep seniors healthy and happy.

According to Kelley Hamilton of Bonaventure, clear and compelling evidence reveals that happiness changes the odds of getting disease or dying young. Today, Kelley Hamilton of Bonaventure talks about simple ways to stay healthy and happy at any age.

Information Nation: Thank you for joining us today, Kelley Hamilton.

Kelley Hamilton, Bonaventure CEO: Absolutely. It’s my pleasure to be here.

Information Nation: From your experience as CEO of Bonaventure Senior Living, is it hard for seniors to stay positive and happy?

Kelley Hamilton, Bonaventure CEO: Not at all. Over the years I’ve seen many simple things seniors can incorporate into their daily routine to keep a positive attitude.

Information Nation: Such as?

Kelley Hamilton, Bonaventure CEO: Music, for example, is great because it affects every part of the body. Relaxing with music changes behavior as well as the body’s chemistry. In fact, a study suggests that seniors with Alzheimer’s disease are less agitated and anxious when they listen to music.

Information Nation: Knowing exercise is an essential element of a healthy and happy lifestyle, how can seniors incorporate exercise into their daily routine without feeling overwhelmed?

Kelley Hamilton, Bonaventure CEO: There are many simple ways for seniors to get some exercise, such as avoiding the elevator and taking stairs instead. For those still driving, parking the car far away when shopping is also a great way to include more exercise into the day. A walk in the garden or park provides exercise and fresh air. Researchers found that people who participate in outdoor activities are significantly less depressed and angry.

Information Nation: What else keeps people happy and healthy?

Kelley Hamilton, Bonaventure CEO: Well, getting together with friends and family is a great way to boost the spirit. Good personal ties also help people stay strong in hard times.

Information Nation: I understand that many seniors at Bonaventure are involved in volunteer work. What are some psychological benefits of giving back?

Kelley Hamilton, Bonaventure CEO: Volunteers who devote time to community organizations or who help out friends, relatives and neighbors report greater happiness and better health than those who don’t. In fact, a study from Cornell University found that volunteering increases one’s energy and self-esteem. It also promotes feelings of positivity, which may strengthen the immune system.

Information Nation: What are some ways for seniors to serve, and experience these physical and psychological benefits?

Kelley Hamilton, Bonaventure CEO: Seniors can volunteer at hospitals, schools, animal shelters or libraries. Or they can donate unused items, like clothes or cars.

Information Nation: With your busy schedule, how do you keep a positive attitude?

Kelley Hamilton, Bonaventure CEO: I think laughter is a great way to fight off stress that can cause blood vessels to narrow and increase heart attack risk. New information shows that laughter has the opposite effect, releasing chemicals that allow blood vessels to open. I try to have at least one good belly laugh a day.

Information Nation: That’s one of my favorites, too.

Kelley Hamilton, Bonaventure CEO: We all should do it more often. It keeps us young and doesn’t cost a dime.

 

Kelley Hamilton, Bonaventure CEO, oversees the company’s nearly 4,500 senior living units from Washington to Nevada. Kelley Hamilton of Bonaventure is responsible for much of the company’s 96 percent satisfaction rate. Kelley Hamilton and Bonaventure believe that even the smallest act of kindness and compassion can have a large impact on a person’s well-being. Kelley Hamilton of Bonaventure resides in Oregon.