When is Hospice Recommended?

Hospice is about deciding how to live life with the time that’s left. Many of us hope we’ll have more time with our parents or grandparents, even when our loved ones are in the late stages of a chronic illness. However, modern medicine can only do so much, and quality of life should always trump the longevity of life. Here are some signs to know when it’s time for your loved one to enter hospice by our hospice care team in Ocean City, NJ.

1. Frequent hospitalizations – If your loved one is spending more and more time in the hospital, or needing frequent trips to the emergency room, it can be an indicator that hospice care should be considered.
2. Frequent and recurrent infections – When the body’s immune system starts to fail, infections become commonplace, which means they take much longer to heal and tend to occur more frequently.
3. A rapid decline in the last 6 months – If you have noticed a rapid and dramatic decline in your loved one’s health over the last 6 months or so, even under medical care, it can be an indication that they are drawing towards end-of-life care.
4. Mental and emotional changes – Often, our loved ones have a clearer idea of the time they have left than we do, and this can cause emotional and mental changes. Often, people begin giving things away, focusing on funeral plans, making apologies, or making unusual requests. In later stages, people can start experiencing hallucinations and withdraw from family and friends.
5. Uncontrolled pain, nausea, and difficulty – Struggling to control pain and nausea, difficulty breathing, and struggling to keep any food down can be an indication that hospice care is needed. In hospice, the focus is on actively managing pain and easing symptoms to support the person’s comfort at all times.
6. Recommendations to focus on the quality of life rather than aggressive medical treatment – If the doctors recommend that treatment changes from looking for a cure towards easing symptoms and creating comfort, then hospice care sounds like the next course of action for your loved one.
7. Decreased alertness, appetite, and confusion – Loss of appetite, spending more time sleeping, and losing the ability to focus and remain alert over reasonable periods of time can be indicators that someone is approaching the end of their life.
8. Dramatically increased daily care needs – A significant deterioration in your loved one’s ability to take care of themselves in terms of eating, grooming themselves, getting dressed or using the bathroom, can indicate that hospice care is needed.

When is the right time to go into hospice care?

None of us like thinking about the end of our loved one’s lives. This makes choosing the right time to go into hospice care quite difficult and also means that a lot of people go into hospice much later than they actually should.

The most important aspect to keep in mind is quality of life over quantity of life. Instead of worrying about choosing hospice care too early, think about how hospice care can enhance your loved one’s comfort on all levels – physically, emotionally and spiritually. If you put their quality of life at the forefront, you’ll feel more secure and confident when transitioning your loved one to hospice care.

Your loved one’s doctors are also great resources to help guide their care. Usually, to get admitted into hospice, two independent physicians must recommend it based on their thorough evaluation of your loved one’s health.

We also recommend that you get to know reputable hospice care providers in your area to see what they have to offer, and ask yourself if this is the kind of thing that would benefit your loved one. For example, Bridges at The Shores in Cape May County NJ offers a very comforting and nurturing environment with a multidisciplinary team that includes doctors, nurses, chaplains, social workers, and more to deliver holistic hospice care. We work hard to create a very different type of hospice that supports families, as well as their loved ones with a wide range of services and amenities.

Bridges at The Shores services and amenities include:

• Nursing oversight
• Life enrichment program
• Medication and pain management
• Luxury linens
• WiFi-enabled
• Outdoor courtyards
• Music room
• Salon
• 24/7 dining
• Family and spiritual support

If you’d like to find out more about our hospice care program, Bridges at The Shores, or see if your loved one is eligible for hospice care in Ocean City, NJ, call our team today or visit our website at: https://theshores.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://theshores.umcommunities.org/the-shores/when-is-hospice-recommended/

Deciding on The Best Care for Your Senior Parents

Parents Day is on July 25th! It’s a reminder that it’s not only important to take care and appreciate them today, but every day. A big part of caring for an aging parent includes deciding on the best care option for them if they are starting to have trouble living alone. As your parents grow older, it’s essential to find them care that caters to their specific needs…and it’s even more essential to keep them involved in the decision-making process. Two of the most popular options for seniors that need more support in their daily lives are independent living and assisted living. Here’s a quick guide to each of these options to help you make an informed choice from our senior care team serving West Deptford.

Is Independent Living Right for Your Senior Parent?

Independent-style living is all about keeping seniors healthy, active and safe. Ask your senior parent these questions to find out if this is the senior care option that best suits them:

• Are you finding maintaining your home is becoming too much work?
• Is your home too big for you and are you looking to downsize?
• Are you looking for a community in which you can be active and make friends?
• Are you worried your current home has become unsuitable for you (e.g. It has a lot of stairs or tripping hazards)?
• Do you want more time to pursue your interests and hobbies?
• Do you want access to trained home health services if needed, but do not require medical attention?

If they have answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, then your senior parent is likely to be a good match for an independent living community. These communities are designed for healthy seniors who are looking to maintain their independence, remove the stress of owning and maintaining a house, and have the freedom to enjoy their hobbies and social lives.

Is Assisted Living Right for Your Senior Parent?

Assisted living also focuses on maintaining independence and quality of life, but is generally more suited to seniors who require a bit more support. Ask mom or dad these questions and find out if this is the best senior care option for them:

• Is maintaining your home becoming stressful and expensive?
• Has your home become unsuitable to your needs (e.g. It has a lot of stairs) or is it too big?
• Do you have a medical condition that requires support?
• Do you require assistance with transport, bathing, dressing, meal preparation or medication administration?
• Do you want more time to pursue your interests and social activities?

If mom or dad has answered ‘yes’ to this set of questions, then they are likely to be a good match for an assisted living community. With a higher level of care, both medically and with daily tasks and errands, this is an ideal community for seniors who need daily support to maintain a high quality of life and independence.

Senior care services in Gloucester County, NJ

At United Methodist Communities at Pitman, our aim is to ensure that each of our residents maintain their dignity, quality of life and independence. Our assisted living community encourages residents to get involved at a level they are comfortable with. We tailor our assisted living services to make sure each resident gets the help and support they require to live a full, happy and independent life as they age.

For more information about life at UMC at Pitman in Gloucester County, please contact us today or visit our website at: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2021/07/26/deciding-on-the-best-care-for-your-senior-parents/

How to Plan a Staycation for Your Senior Parent

Everyone looks forward to a summer vacation! As a caregiver, coming up with new ways to have fun while keeping your senior parent safe on vacation could be a challenge. Planning can be tricky, especially if long distance traveling is not an option for mom or dad. However, who says you have to travel far to have a great summer vacation? “Staycations” are just as fun and can be easier to plan and execute. With that said, our assisted living caregivers in Collingswood have put together some great ideas on how you can help plan a “staycation” for your senior loved one.

• Have a poolside BBQ. Nothing says summer like grilling food by the pool. Have mom or dad come over, along with the rest of the family for a day of summer fun and delicious BBQ food! If you do not have a pool, do not underestimate the power of a blow-up pool. They are cheaper and just as fun as an in-ground or above ground pool, especially for grandkids who are constantly on the run.
• Take a day trip to the Jersey Shore. If your senior parent is a part of our assisted living community in Camden County, NJ, they are only 1.5 hour away from lively shore towns like Toms River and Long Branch. Pack lunch, towels, beach games, chairs and then pick up your mom or dad for a relaxing day at the shore.
• “Travel” the world through the art of cooking. If you can’t bring mom to Italy, bring Italy to mom through authentic, home-cooked Italian dishes. Try your hand in some new recipes and ask mom to join in for some quality bonding time. You could even make this a weekly activity if your senior parent is adventurous with their food choices. “Go” to Italy this week, and Greece the next – that’ll make for one exciting summer.
• Look up local events in the area. There is always something going on in Collingswood, New Jersey! July is a very exciting month because it marks the start of “Movies in Knight Park.” Classic movies like Toy Story, Grease, Finding Nemo and The Empire Strikes Back will be shown on Tuesday and Thursday nights in July. Admission is free, so you and your senior parent will only have to BYOC (bring your own chair). We also recommend bringing snacks like popcorn and candy.
• Create an oasis at home. When in doubt, create the vacation your senior parent wants in the safety of their own home. If they don’t already have a garden, building one together is a great way to spend a little time outdoors. Or if dad is more of a sightseer and nature expert, place different types of bird feeders throughout the backyard together. You’ll both be surprised to see the number of birds that come to visit!

Summer fun for seniors at Collingswood

At our assisted living community in Collingswood, our associates are constantly brainstorming new ways to enjoy the summer outdoors with our senior residents. Some of the activities we have planned this summer are trips to Scottish Rite Grounds, “Lunch and Relaxation in Knight Park,” and Saturday Night Movies, just to name a few. We understand that the mobility and health of some residents may impact their ability to leave campus, but our associates will do everything in their power to bring the summer fun to them – no matter what! 

To find out more about our summer fun activities for seniors in Camden County NJ, please contact us today or visit our website at: https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/collingswood/how-to-plan-a-staycation-for-your-senior-parent/

Why Vitamin D is Important for Seniors

Since it’s summer and the sun is shining, there’s no better time to talk about the health benefits of vitamin D! The “sunshine vitamin” is particularly beneficial for seniors, and has been shown to enhance bone health, oral health and even mental health. In this article, our assisted living team in Sussex County, New Jersey, will go over Vitamin D benefits in depth, and teach you how to spot a Vitamin D deficiency in your senior loved one.

Reasons why seniors need Vitamin D

#1 – Helps boost bone health

Vitamin D helps to prevent and manage osteoporosis, a health condition that makes bones brittle and weak. This is especially relevant to seniors, as falls can cause serious damage and require intensive hospitalization.

A study in 2019 by the American Medical Association found that seniors who had sufficient Vitamin D and calcium in their diet reduced their risk of hip fractures alone by 16%. To achieve the best results, all adults over 60 should combine the recommended dose of 1000 IU per day with 1,200 mg of calcium.

#2 – Helps prevent infection and cancers

Vitamin D is a great nutrient for disease prevention, helping to reduce risks for everything from cancers to the flu. That’s because it works to strengthen the immune system, helping to fight against everyday diseases, as well as targeting specific health conditions like colon cancer. In fact, a global study from 25 different clinical trials showed natural, antibiotic-like responses in the body being promoted by Vitamin D intake!

#3 – Great for oral health

Dental care can be a challenge for seniors, but getting the right amount of Vitamin D each day can help make this a little easier. Vitamin D helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay, and lowers your risk of oral health diseases. That’s because it works to help your body absorb calcium, the critical building block for strong, healthy, decay-resistant teeth.

#4 – Enhances your mental wellbeing

In countries with little sunlight for months on end, Vitamin D is prescribed to help lift your mood and prevent SAD – Seasonal Affective Disorder. For seniors, Vitamin D is especially effective for combatting depression and depressive symptoms, improving mental health, sleep quality, and overall happiness.

Signs of a Vitamin D deficiency

Vitamin D deficiencies are quite common in older adults. Especially if they have a small appetite or spend little time outside. Common signs for this deficiency include:

1. Muscle weakness and bone breaks/frailty.
2. Changes in mood and cognitive function, as well as depressive symptoms.
3. Weight gain, as lower amounts of Vitamin D can cause poor regulation of appetite and body weight.
4. Fatigue and pain in the shoulders, pelvis, lower back and ribcage.
5. Digestive issues like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.

How seniors can get enough Vitamin D

Ideally, adults should get around 1000 IU per day, and the earlier this begins, the better. You can make sure you’re getting enough Vitamin D by:

• Taking supplements – Preferably a high-quality Vitamin D supplement that contains calcium.
• Spending time outdoors – Vitamin D is the sunshine vitamin, so spending time outside is a great way to get your daily dose. You can gently expose your skin while still protecting it from harmful UV rays. Early morning sunshine is the most gentle on the skin. It’s also good to sit in dappled sunlight, wear a hat and use sunscreen daily.
• Change your diet – There are certain foods that are rich in Vitamin D and can help supplement your intake. Try to include fresh milk, salmon, tuna, mushrooms, egg yolks and cheeses like fontina, muenster and monterey into your diet.

At Bristol Glen, an assisted living community in Sussex County, New Jersey, we offer spacious apartments that incorporate fall prevention measures, and that are just a short walk from beautiful outdoor spaces like our community garden. We also offer full catering, with nutritious meals prepared by our chefs that meet all dietary requirements. With ample opportunities to get outdoors and change your diet at Bristol Glen, there’s no reason why our senior residents can’t get enough Vitamin D!

If you want to find out more about our assisted living community in NJ, you can view our community virtual tours, read about our services and much more on our website at: https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/bristol-glen/why-vitamin-d-is-important-for-seniors/

The Advantages of Living in a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)

If you and your loved one have started to discuss moving into a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), we understand that there may be some reluctance and hesitation. Moving can be a very stressful experience and sometimes older adults feel resistant to making big changes. Especially, a big change like moving out of their home and into a new environment. However, when seniors can no longer live safely alone, it’s time to consider a new option that still promotes their independence. 

A Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) is an excellent option for NJ seniors entering assisted living. These communities offer levels of care based on your loved one’s health and independence. There are many advantages of living in a CCRC, including:

• CCRCs offer similar amenities to assisted living communities, plus the necessary daily care services that residents need. Amenities like a beauty salon, on-site pharmacy, fitness center, game and activity room, and scheduled social events are available to all residents of CCRCs. Residents enjoy the community feel while receiving the medical care they need. 
• There’s no need to uproot your loved one if a major medical issue arises. Continuing Care means exactly that: your loved one can remain in their community even if the status of their health changes. Moving, especially for older adults with medical needs, can be very disruptive and frustrating. You don’t want to take your loved one out of a familiar, enjoyable environment simply because they require more medical care. 
• CCRCs accommodate all different levels of independence. Many seniors are reluctant to move into an assisted living community because they fear it indicates a loss of their independence. When you and your loved one visit a CCRC, however, you’ll notice it feels more like an apartment complex than an assisted living community. As your loved one’s ability to be independent changes, the specialized care team at their CCRC will step in without any major changes or disruptions to their routine.
• You won’t have to break any contracts if your loved one needs to relocate. Injuries and other health issues can mean an immediate change in the care services your loved one requires, and if you’re locked into a rental contract it can be expensive to break it. Plus, being able to keep your loved one in a familiar environment gives your whole family much-needed peace of mind.

Continuing Care Retirement Community in Sussex County New Jersey

The spectrum of services offered at most CCRCs is diverse, including memory care, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, speech-language therapy, and more. Assisted living wings are also a part of many CCRCs. When older adults transition into this phase of their lives, they often find a new sense of independence as they’re able to explore new hobbies and interests, make new friends, and manage their own daily activities – as they choose. 

Bristol Glen, our Continued Care Retirement Community in Sussex County, New Jersey, is ideal for older adults of all abilities. The Bristol Glen lifestyle enables residents to maintain their independence for as long as possible, while also offering on-site care services that adhere to all medical needs. 

For more information about CCRC living at UMC at Bristol Glen, please contact our team today. Discover why so many people in Sussex County New Jersey choose us when it’s time to move a loved one into a CCRC. 

If you have any other questions about senior living in NJ, please visit our website at: https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/continuing-care-retirement-community/the-advantages-of-living-in-a-continuing-care-retirement-community-ccrc/

5 Facts You May Not Know About Assisted Living

With so many different senior living options available, it’s easy to get them mixed up. What are assisted living communities really like? Are they all basically the same? Do some communities offer more custom services and levels of care? Can someone with dementia go to an assisted living community? Let’s find out some facts you may not know from our assisted living team in Ocean City, NJ.

Fact #1 – Assisted living is more than personal care services

The best providers offer a very wide range of services to residents that include:

• Personal care – Grooming, bathing, and dressing
• Nutritious meals or meal preparation
• Transportation to stores, appointments, social events and more
• Laundry and housekeeping
• Medication management and health monitoring
• Mobility assistance
• Home maintenance and repairs
• Hotel-like amenities like fitness centers and beauty salons

These services are designed to take care of all the essentials of daily living, making regular day-to-day tasks easier and supporting seniors in living a full and independent life.

Fact #2 – All services can be customized to the individual

At premier assisted living communities, you can choose the types of services your loved one needs. This helps match independence with assistance, which can be scaled up or down as your loved one’s needs change. For example, mom may require housekeeping, medication management and transportation, but not personal care like bathing or meal assistance. On the other hand, dad may need more intensive care due to a chronic health condition, while mom is more self-sufficient. A top notch community like UMC at The Shores will provide services to meet both of their needs.

Seniors can even move into assisted living communities temporarily when recovering from an illness or surgery, or if the family caregiver needs access to respite care. A short stay like this is a great way to give the community a trial-run before becoming a full-time resident!

Being able to tailor assisted living services is easier on residents and means you aren’t paying for services your loved ones do not want or require. 

Fact #3 – The amenities are great

Assisted living communities vary in terms of what amenities they provide their residents, and the best communities try to create a holistic community that enhances every aspect of resident life. This can include beauty salons and barbershops, art and fitness centers, swimming pools, gardens, places of worship, libraries, movie theatres and more. This helps promote a full, enjoyable and independent-style of living right on campus!

Fact #4 – Assisted living is different from a nursing home

Although both cater to the needs of seniors, they’re pretty different in reality! Assisted living is about creating a senior-friendly community, filled with similarly-aged residents who are out and about, enjoying life, and are fairly independent. Usually, residents have their own, apartment-style space, and can enjoy an extensive range of services, amenities, and social events. While some facilities do offer more intensive medical care for residents, the main focus in assisted living is living an abundant, social, and independent life.

Nursing homes cater to seniors who need skilled nursing care, constant supervision, and intensive medical treatment. While any senior can join an assisted living community, getting into a nursing home requires a professional recommendation by a physician. Generally, accommodation is shared in these communities, and it caters to residents who are bedridden or otherwise require a high level of care.

Fact #5 – Assisted living communities can take seniors with dementia

If you have a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s, you may think a nursing home is the only option. However, some of the top assisted living communities can assist residents with these conditions through a professional, specialized Memory Care program.

Qualified, experienced professionals will help manage symptoms and problem-solve strategies to handle challenges and difficulties associated with dementia. They will also employ memory-enhancing therapies to help stimulate cognitive function. Assisted living communities offering Memory Care help create a safe, secure, and supportive environment, especially in the earlier stages of these conditions.

Interested in exploring assisted living in Cape May County as an option for your loved one? Visit our website, call our team, and have an online consultation. You’ll quickly see how we can fit into your support network, and provide your loved one with the comprehensive care and fulfilling life they deserve. To learn more, visit us online at: https://theshores.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://theshores.umcommunities.org/the-shores/5-facts-you-may-not-know-about-assisted-living/

How Seniors Can Stay Safe From The Sun

Balance is the key to almost everything, right? Sunlight is a great source of Vitamin D for seniors, but too much sunlight can quickly become harmful. The need for sun protection is especially important for seniors who often have very fragile skin. Some seniors take medications that have increased sun sensitivity as an unavoidable side effect. Since July is UV Safety Month, our assisted living caregivers at Pitman have put together a list of sun safety tips for our senior loved ones.

Essential Sun Safety Tips for Seniors

Tip #1: Sunscreen, sunscreen, and more sunscreen. Even if mom or dad only goes outside to water their garden or go for a short walk, encourage them to wear sunscreen and reapply often! The risk of developing or dying from skin cancer rises each year. When using sunscreen or applying it to a senior loved one, make sure it is at least SPF 30 and offers broad-spectrum protection. This ensures the sunscreen will absorb 97% of the sun’s rays, including UVA and UVB. It also helps to switch between different modes of sunscreen. Try using a spray sunscreen for a base coat and then a lotion to get those hard to reach spots. 

Tip #2: Avoid the sun during peak UV hours. Mom or dad’s new best friend: the shade. The sun’s UV rays are usually strongest between 10am to 4pm. This means it’s best to limit their sun exposure during those times or make sure they stay in the shade. However, it’s important to keep in mind that trees, umbrellas and canopies do not offer complete sun protection. Wearing sunscreen is always a must, even if they are out of direct sunlight.

Tip #3: Utilize long sleeves, sunglasses and long-brimmed hats when possible. Along with sunscreen, wearing certain items of clothing will provide extra coverage from the sun. Long-brimmed hats offer good sun protection for the ears, face and neck. Sunglasses that provide 99-100% UVA and UVB protection will greatly reduce eye damage from the sun. Last but not least, long sleeves and long pants will protect the arms and legs from additional sun exposure.

Staying cool at UMC at Pitman

UMC at Pitman, our assisted living community near West Deptford, provides many opportunities for seniors to have fun in the sun, while remaining safe from its harmful UV rays. Our associates are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide assistance with daily tasks, including applying and reapplying sunscreen. They could also recommend the best spots on campus to hang in the shade!

For more information on our assisted living services in Pitman, NJ, please visit our website at: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2021/07/12/how-seniors-can-stay-safe-from-the-sun/

5 Movies About Dementia You Don’t Want to Miss

In the past, movies and television shows have been criticized for portraying dementia in unrealistic and unrelatable ways, often buying into cliches and stereotypes. However, in more recent years, filmmakers have been treating dementia with the care and consideration it deserves, and we’ve seen a variety of movies about dementia that are much more realistic. 

Here are 5 movies about dementia that our memory care specialists in Camden County, NJ recommend:

Away From Her (2006) –  This independent Canadian film is about a married couple whose relationship becomes strained when the wife begins to exhibit signs of Alzheimer’s disease. Feeling concerned about becoming a burden, she voluntarily moves into a memory care neighborhood where she can receive the care she needs. Actress Julie Christie, who plays the wife, received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her portrayal of a woman with dementia. 

Still Alice (2014) – Superstar Julianne Moore stars as Alice, a professor of linguistics diagnosed with familial Alzheimer’s disease shortly after she turns 50. It explores how her diagnosis and her gradual deterioration affects her job, her husband, and her three grown children. 

The film received wide critical acclaim and earned Julianne Moore an Academy Award for Best Actress. Moore researched dementia extensively while preparing for her role as Alice. 

The Notebook (2004) – Based on the international best-selling novel from Nicholas Sparks, The Notebook follows an elderly husband caring for his wife, who has dementia. In an attempt to rekindle her memories of their life together he reads to her from his notebook, and through his reading we learn more about their lives together.

Firefly Dreams (2001) – One for international film lovers, this popular Japanese movie follows a teenager sent out to the country for the summer. She’s tasked with caring for an elderly neighbor with Alzheimer’s disease and is initially resistant, but the two soon develop a life-changing bond. 

A Song For Martin (2001) – This Swedish movie has been praised for its realistic portrayal of caregiving. It follows Barbara and Martin, two people who meet and marry in middle-age. Soon after, we learn that Martin has dementia. 

Finding a memory care neighborhood in NJ

If someone you love has dementia and you’re no longer able to provide adequate care for them at home, it may be time to consider moving them into a memory care neighborhood. We understand how difficult this decision can be for everyone involved, but your loved one’s health, safety, and comfort are of the utmost importance. Memory care neighborhoods have the 24-hour attentiveness and specialized level of care they need. 

UMC at Collingswood, our state-of-the-art memory care neighborhood in Camden County NJ, employs a resident-centered approach that emphasizes their dignity, safety, comfort, and health. Our team of specialists and the deep relationship we have with the local community enables us to provide a well-rounded experience for all of our residents.

For more information about the memory care neighborhood at UMC at Collingswood, please contact our team today. Discover why so many people in Camden County NJ trust us with their loved one’s memory care by visiting our website at: https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/memory-support/5-movies-about-dementia-you-dont-want-to-miss/

Summer Fun in Sussex County

We hope you’ve been out and about enjoying the beautiful summer weather with family and friends! If you’re looking to get mom or dad out more this summer, or if you’re looking for a fun event that the whole family can enjoy  – we have options for you! Without further ado, here are some great options for sharing the summer fun with your senior loved ones, from our Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) in Sussex County, New Jersey.

1. 6^th Annual NJ Taco Festival. This taco festival is a fantastic day out for anyone who loves the spice of life! Enjoy the best taco trucks in town, meet celebrity chefs and food writers, stock up on artisanal sauces and treats, enjoy live music, watch a beauty pageant, and see contestants go head-to-head in the Reaper Pepper Eating Challenge – if you’re brave enough to watch!
2. 2021 Annual Charity Golf Outing. If your mom or dad loves to get out and spend a day on the green, there’s no better day to do it than the Annual Charity Golf Outing in support of the Sarala Bathena Foundation. Hosted at Crystal Springs in Hamburg, you get to enjoy a day at one of the top-rated public courses in the state. Donations will go towards supporting restaurant workers in New Jersey and New York, bringing a little sunshine into people’s lives after a tough year!
3. Support the Sussex County Minors. Nothing says “summer” quite like baseball, so  pack up the kids, grandparents, and cousins for a fun day out at the ballpark supporting the Sussex County Minors! The season runs until September 12th with home games at the EDT Skylands Stadium in Augusta, NJ, so it’s easy to find a weekend that suits everyone. Remember, on Saturdays there are usually fireworks too!
4. Lake Hopatcong Historical Cruise. Learn about the history of Lake Hopatcong with historian Marty Kane as you gently cruise along the lake on a beautiful summer’s day. This 2-hour cruise is a great opportunity to dive into local history as you enjoy the sunset. There’s a bar and snacks available on board, and this year you can reserve an appetizer with your ticket purchase, so you won’t go hungry!
5. Lots of Strings Festival at Morris Museum. This outdoor event transforms the museum’s parking lot into a theatre for an exceptional musical performance. Featuring the most acclaimed ensembles from members of Orpheus Chamber Orchestra, as well as Imani Winds and Ethel, this live music event is a must-see for anyone who loves classical string music. Bring your loved ones, a picnic basket filled with summer goodies and enjoy the sunset along with some of the best string music in the world.
6. A New View—Camden. If your senior parent is up for a weekend away or a longer day trip, you can enjoy an outdoor art extravaganza at “A New View – Camden.” Launched on Earth Day and funded by a $1 million Bloomberg Philanthropies Public Art Challenge grant to bring awareness to the environmental issue of illegal dumping, this striking, outdoor art exhibit is in the area for 6 months over the summer. Along with the exhibit, there are a series of family-friendly events offered, including movie nights, the Trenton Circus Squad, biking and walking events.
7. The New Jersey State Fair. Who doesn’t love a state fair? Open rain or shine this August (and with free parking too), this is the ultimate summer event for all ages. Enjoy petting zoos, carnival rides, art exhibits, the Sussex County horse show, and – of course – the best food in the state from dawn until dusk. Pack your sunscreen, walking shoes and remember to stay hydrated!

Our CCRC in Newton, NJ, is a beautiful and welcoming space for seniors. Whether you have just retired or are looking for additional care, our community allows you to retain your independence and scale care services according to your needs. Bristol Glen also has many opportunities for socialization with a pre scheduled monthly calendar filled with fun activities on campus and in the nearby community.

For more information on Bristol Glen, our services, and how we support independent style living for seniors in NJ, please contact us today or visit our website at https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/bristol-glen/summer-fun-in-sussex-county/

Independence Day Activities for Seniors

It’s almost the Fourth of July, and who says the fun is just for kids? There are many ways to include mom and dad in the Independence Day celebrations safely. Whether they are still living at home or in an assisted living community, they can still enjoy all the fun that comes with this festive summer holiday.

Without further ado, here are some great ways to celebrate Independence Day with seniors from our assisted living team in Camden County, NJ.

• Host a July 4th BBQ. Nothing says “Fourth of July” like a classic summertime BBQ with close family and friends. Enlist your senior loved one to make a side dish or pick up dessert to feel included in the planning. Also, make sure there are shady spots set up in the backyard for mom or dad. Especially if there is a heat wave coming, you don’t want them to melt like popsicles!
• Red, white and blue decorations and attire. Who doesn’t like to dress up, especially for a fun holiday like Independence Day? Help your senior loved one shop for a red, white and blue themed outfit for the occasion. Once the attire is set, it’s time for the decorations! You could enlist the grandkids help for this one and have them make homemade decorations with your senior loved one. A perfect opportunity for some quality bonding time with grandma or grandpa.
• Fireworks near or far. A staple of this American holiday has to be a fireworks show after the sun sets. However, a local fireworks show often draws in large, noisy crowds that may not be so much fun for your senior loved one. If mom or dad isn’t a fan of big crowded events, do some research ahead of time and find a different spot to view the show. Maybe there’s a quiet park or a friend’s house nearby that is a better viewing option for your senior loved one.

Seniors in assisted living for Independence Day

Our associates at United Methodist Communities at Collingswood understand that mobility or health status can prevent some assisted living residents from being able to leave Collingswood to celebrate Independence Day. But that doesn’t mean we can’t bring the July 4th fun to them! Get in touch with our assisted living team and let us know how we can best accommodate 4th of July plans for your senior loved one. Our Collingswood campus has many indoor and outdoor spaces, where families can gather and spend time with their senior loved ones safely on Independence Day.

For more information about our assisted living services in Camden County, call us today or visit our website at: https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/collingswood/independence-day-activities-for-seniors/

How to Comfort Those in Hospice

Moving a loved one into hospice care is never an easy process. Families often feel overwhelmed by a range of emotions as they try to offer help and support in a situation they have little to no experience with. People may also be overly-worried about saying the “wrong” thing to their loved one, despite their intentions being good.

When you hear the word “hospice” it may conjure negative feelings and emotions, but helping a loved one transition into hospice care can be a peaceful experience with the right mindset. Our South Jersey hospice team has shared some tips on how to create a comfortable, tranquil environment for your loved one in hospice care.

Dim the overhead lights. We’ve all been in offices and shopping malls with bright, overhead fluorescent lighting, so you can imagine how uncomfortable bright lights can be to those with certain sensitivities and illnesses. If it’s possible, we recommend keeping the overhead lights switched off and using several lamps throughout your loved ones room instead. Lamps provide softer, gentler light that is easier on the eyes and creates a more relaxing atmosphere. 

Don’t be afraid to sit in silence with your loved one. Sitting in silence doesn’t need to be an uncomfortable experience. Both you and your loved one are processing many emotions and thoughts. Your physical presence alongside them is often a big comfort in and of itself. Sitting in silence allows everyone to work through their feelings, practice meditation, and if you’re religious, it can be an ideal time to pray. 

Maintain a quiet environment. People in hospice can easily become overwhelmed by loud sounds, bright lights, and too much general commotion. Don’t leave the TV turned on all the time, and when it is on keep the volume low. Don’t speak too loudly with other people while in your loved one’s room. Minimizing loud noises and commotion can help your loved one avoid feeling agitated and stressed.

Adapt a gentle touch. Things like gently holding a loved one’s hand or a soft touch on the arm can be very comforting to those in their final stages of life. Gentle touches let your loved one know you’re there and it helps them feel connected with you.

Jersey Shore hospice care

Making the decision to put a loved one in a hospice care community is never an easy one. Terminally ill people often reach a point where they need around-the-clock specialized assistance that may be difficult or impossible to administer at home.

At Bridges at The Shores, our hospice community in Cape May County, we strive to provide a peaceful, nurturing environment for all of our residents. Our multidisciplinary approach includes nurses, social workers, chaplains and pain management specialists who attend to our residents’ physical, social, and emotional needs. Our priority is making both our residents and their family members feel as comfortable as possible.

For more information about hospice care at UMC at The Shores in Cape May County, please contact our team today. Our South Jersey hospice team is here to support your family every step of the way. 

To learn more about hospice care in South Jersey, please visit our website at: https://theshores.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://umcommunities.org/hospice/how-to-comfort-those-in-hospice/