Tips to Make Spring Cleaning Easier for Seniors

 

It’s officially spring! You know what that means — time to do your annual spring cleaning. With the weather getting warmer, there’s this undeniable sense to refresh which is why so many people take this opportunity to deep clean their homes.

While you’ll undoubtedly start small with reorganizing clothes for the warm weather, cleaning your entire home head to toe can easily become overwhelming for anybody. With that said, our associates in Gloucester County have put together some essential tips to make the process easier, especially for older adults.

• Make a spring cleaning checklist. We don’t know about you, but being able to mark items off of a checklist makes us feel extremely accomplished. Before jumping into cleaning, create a checklist of all the tasks you would like to accomplish for your home. Some examples include sanitizing high-touch surfaces, reorganizing closets, and vacuuming the floors.
  However, there are many other chores that can slip your mind if you don’t make a list. Tasks worth noting, especially for seniors, are installing grab bars in the bathrooms, replacing dead batteries in smoke detectors, and removing expired items from the medicine cabinet, pantry, and refrigerator.

• Don’t be afraid to throw stuff away. One easy way to do this? Make “yes” or “no” piles only, no “maybe I’ll wear this in the summer,” or “maybe I can squeeze into this if I shed some unwanted weight.” Be realistic with yourself. A good rule of thumb, if you haven’t worn something in over six months, throw it out or give it away.
  It may be more difficult when it comes to parting with sentimental items you’ve accumulated over the years. However, it’s important to keep in mind that hoarding items you rarely use takes up unnecessary space, and has the potential to negatively impact your physical health by creating fall hazards.
• Ask for help. Having someone there to help you clean will keep you motivated, and might even make the process more fun. Once your family member or friend arrives to help, the first thing they should do is look over your checklist. Another pair of eyes can always offer a different perspective and point out some things you may have initially missed, such as replacing the old hallway light that is dimming by the minute.
  An extra helping hand can also take care of the chores that can be tough for you to complete on your own, like dusting shelves that are hard to reach or moving around big pieces of furniture.

Consider a new senior living option in Gloucester County, NJ

If you’ve uncovered any issues in your home that make living conditions less safe, have one of your loved ones take care of it immediately. If they find the issue cannot be fixed easily, it may be time to consider a new living option. Relocating to a senior living community may seem overwhelming at first, but you’ll live in the safest, most well-kept environment available. Our assisted living community in Gloucester County is the perfect option for seniors who are ready to say bye to spring cleaning and hello to a relaxed senior lifestyle.

If you’d like to see if we’re the right assisted living option in Gloucester County, New Jersey, or would like more information about our services, please contact United Methodist Communities today: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2021/03/25/tips-to-make-spring-cleaning-easier-for-seniors/

4 Stress Management Tips for Dementia Caregivers

 

Many families initially choose to deal with a parent’s dementia in their home. Over time, it can become overwhelming to take care of a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Not to mention, too much stress can be harmful to both you and your senior loved one.

Our team at United Methodist Communities HomeWorks has put together a list of caregiver burnout signs and tips to manage stress successfully.

6 signs of caregiver stress you shouldn’t ignore

1. Feelings of anger and frustration – These negative feelings can be expressed towards your loved one, towards other people in your life or even inwardly towards yourself. Stress causes us to feel more impatient and more frustrated, and can make us lash out in ways we wouldn’t normally allow.
2. Social withdrawal – Caregivers under a lot of stress often withdraw from activities they usually love. If you find yourself not wanting to see friends or indulge in your favorite hobbies, then you may be suffering from significant caregiver stress.
3. Depression and anxiety – Caring for a loved one with a terminal condition is not easy, and feeling sad and anxious is normal sometimes. However, if you are constantly feeling down and you cannot see a way out, it’s important to seek professional help.
4. Exhaustion – If you are feeling constantly fatigued, as if you have no energy to get through the day or even get out of bed, then you are likely suffering from extreme burnout.
5. Weight gain or loss – When you spend more time caring for someone else and less time caring for yourself, it’s easy for your nutrition to suffer. If you’re finding it impossible to maintain a healthy, balanced diet, then you may be under too much strain as a caregiver.
6. Physical ailments – Another important symptom not to ignore is when your own health starts to suffer. Common ailments linked to caregiver burnout include frequent headaches and body pain. 

4 techniques for stress management for dementia caregivers

1. Use relaxation techniques – Try to incorporate relaxation techniques into your daily life. This can include meditation for 10 minutes a day, breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation (consciously taking note of where tension is and relaxing each set of muscles), and positive visualization.
2. Introduce physical exercise – Physical exercise is one of the very best stress management tools available. It releases endorphins, reduces blood pressure, lowers cortisol (stress hormone) levels, boosts your mood and benefits your overall health. Choose something you enjoy, and it won’t feel like work! 
3. Join local support groups – Being a family caregiver isn’t just stressful, it can be lonely too. Many family caregivers feel the weight of the world on their shoulders, and joining a support group can help alleviate this burden. You’re not alone in this, and support groups are a great resource for getting advice and sharing your experience with people who truly understand what you are going through.
4. Give yourself a break – There is more to life than being a family caregiver, but it’s easy for the role to take over. In the long run, however, this isn’t going to help you or your loved one! Taking a break, whether it’s to get your hair done, watch a movie, or to have quality time with your family is important.

It’s essential to your own wellbeing, and it will help you to be a better caregiver too. You could also look to hire a respite caregiver who has experience with older adults with dementia. Respite caregivers are trained to give your loved one the support and care they need, while you’re taking some much-deserved “me-time.”

In-home respite care services for seniors and family caregivers in NJ

UMC HomeWorks provides highly qualified at-home care services for older adults across the state of  New Jersey. In addition to assisting with daily tasks, errands and light housekeeping, our home health aides are fully trained in providing memory care and skilled nursing care in line with the latest COVID-19 guidelines. 

If you would like to find out more about our in-home respite or memory care services in NJ, contact us today and let one of our home health aides deliver the exceptional care and companionship that your loved one deserves. You can also visit our website at https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/live-in-care-new-jersey/ 

Originally published: https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/4-stress-management-tips-for-dementia-caregivers/

Indoor Gardening for Seniors: How to Get Started

 

Are you interested in indoor gardening, but don’t have any idea where to start or what to do? For seniors in assisted living, outdoor gardening isn’t always an option due to space limitations or weather constraints.

Starting a small indoor garden is a great first step to enjoy this fun, new hobby in assisted living. And who knows, you may discover that you have a natural “green thumb!”

Did you know gardening also provides health benefits to older adults? In fact, according to the Alzheimer’s Society, taking care of plants can help people with dementia to retain some of their existing skills and boost confidence. In addition, having a small indoor garden gives seniors something to care for and look forward to every day, helping them fulfill a purpose. 

Here’s how to get started with an indoor garden:

• Note how much natural light reaches your apartment. You don’t want to try and grow plants that need a lot of sunlight, if your space only receives a few hours of light each day. Luckily there are plenty of plants that grow indoors and only require a little bit of light each day, like succulents. Just ask a fellow gardener or your local plant nursery what they recommend for your situation. 
• Make sure your garden is easily accessible. Don’t plant your garden in a place that requires you to bend down, stoop, crouch, or reach up high. You want to be able to access the entire garden easily while in a comfortable standing or seated position. The same goes for where you store your gardening tools, plant pots, and other garden supplies.
• Avoid plants with spines (like a cactus), and plants that are poisonous to humans or pets or can irritate your skin. Although they may look lovely, certain plants have rough edges, sharp leaves, or spines that can cause injuries, especially if you accidentally fall onto them. Be aware of poisonous plants as well, and avoid anything that can cause unnecessary harm.
• Keep it simple in the beginning. All gardeners begin somewhere, and we recommend growing a small herb garden if you’re a beginner. Herb gardens are an affordable way to grow fresh ingredients right in your apartment, and many herbs grow easily indoors. 
• Have fun! Many people praise gardening as being a relaxing, fun, and enjoyable hobby. You can grow flowers that complement the colors of your decor, select stylish plant pots, and make the indoor garden totally your own.

Gardening fun in assisted living

UMC at Pitman, our assisted living community in Gloucester County, residents can enjoy a comfortable and private residential setting, while receiving the daily support they need. We encourage our residents to continue pursuing their hobbies and interests while staying with us, or to branch out and explore a new hobby they’ve always been interested in trying. 

Whether it’s indoor gardening, music, literature, or another hobby entirely, our community will do everything possible to make sure our residents have access to activities that make them feel at home. Our goal is for every resident to live independent, fulfilling lives and enjoy everything life has to offer at our community. 

For more information about Pitman, or if you have any questions about assisted living across New Jersey, please contact United Methodist Communities today.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/assisted-living/indoor-gardening-for-seniors-how-to-get-started/

What’s the Difference Between Memory Care and Assisted Living?

Are you looking for a senior care solution for a loved one with dementia? Although memory care may be offered in an assisted living community, there are many differences between these two care services.

Individuals with dementia require caregivers who have specialized skill sets and supervision in contrast to what is provided in assisted living. Here’s a detailed guide to the major differences between the two services from our specialists in memory care in Cape May County, NJ.

What is assisted living for people with dementia?

An assisted living community will have the services and support in place to assist people in the earlier stages of dementia. Usually, these residents have less medical needs at this stage and onsite nurses can manage any medication needs as required. The services they offer are more about supporting their independence by assisting with Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs).

This includes help with medications, meal preparation, housekeeping services, shopping and errands, and leisure activities as well as bathing, dressing, and going to the bathroom. Support services are selected according to what a resident currently needs, and are scaled up as their needs change.

Living in an assisted living community is about making it as easy as possible for residents to be independent and comfortable, balancing support services with activities that promote freedom, social connections, wellness and enjoyment. As a result, residing in assisted living usually means staying in a private apartment home within a vibrant community.

Well-equipped assisted living communities are able to manage the needs of residents without having to move them. Which means they can manage everything from skilled nursing care after an operation to physical therapy all onsite, although it may involve a temporary move to a different neighborhood for more specialized and intensive care.

What is memory care for people living with dementia?

Memory care is a service designed to provide the best possible support for those who need more intensive care and supervision that can be provided in assisted living. Essentially, this is a more specialized care neighborhood that focuses specifically on those with dementia conditions. Here, supervision is 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is provided by specially-trained caregivers and medical associates who have extensive experience with dementia residents.

While assisting with IADLs is a significant part of the work in memory care, there’s much more to this type of care. Activities designed to stimulate memory and potentially slow disease progression are an important part of this care. This includes arts and crafts, music, cognitive games, and physical activities.

Memory care residents have less private space than assisted living, but more communal spaces, as it’s important for associates to be able to interact with residents. High-quality memory care residences do everything possible to help each resident stay engaged, active, and as independent as possible.

Deciding between assisted living and memory care for your loved one in NJ

When it comes to finding professional care and support for a loved one with dementia, it’s important to make sure the community’s values and services match up with their current and future needs.

At The Shores, which is part of the United Methodist Communities network, we offer specialized care for residents with dementia called Tapestries®. At Tapestries, we work to ensure that our residents are able to scale up both assisted living and memory care services as needed, all without having to move from the comfort of their community.

If you would like to find out more about memory care in Ocean City, NJ, contact us to set up a consultation with our memory care advisors or visit our website at https://theshores.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://theshores.umcommunities.org/the-shores/whats-the-difference-between-memory-care-and-assisted-living/

Spring into Action! Seasonal Health Advice for Older Adults

 

With the weather getting warmer, it’s time for everybody to spring into action! Especially older adults who may have felt a little too cooped up inside this winter.

Spring’s arrival is a new opportunity to boost your overall health by getting more active outdoors. Our assisted living team in Camden County has put together a list of different ways to embrace the health and wellness benefits of spring. We’ve also compiled some tips on how to be prepared for the disadvantages of this season –  i.e. the dreaded spring allergies.

• Prepare for seasonal allergies ahead of time. We love seeing the spring flowers bloom, but the pollen really takes a toll on seasonal allergies. Make sure to keep your windows closed if you suffer from spring allergies. Also, talk to your primary physician or allergy doctor about when to start taking your allergy medications and how often. Depending on the severity of your allergies, your doctor may recommend taking allergy medication a month prior to spring as a preventative measure.
• Soak up the sun (safely, of course). The most inexpensive and easily accessible source of vitamin D for seniors: the sun! Vitamin D is produced when your skin is exposed to sunshine. Spending time outside in the sun also does wonders for your mental health and cognition. We recommend spending about 15-20 minutes out in the sun three days a week. Keep in mind, the sun’s rays are the most powerful between 10am-3pm. If you are prone to burning, wear sunscreen with a strong SPF and a hat to keep the strong rays away from your face.

• Incorporate spring vegetables into your diet. If you have a green thumb, spring is your season. It’s the ideal time to grow beautiful flowers, as well as delicious fruits and vegetables. Many vegetables and fruits like asparagus, cucumbers, mushrooms, peppers, sweet potatoes and strawberries are in season and can easily be grown with time, patience and special care. Not to mention, eating multiple servings of vegetables and fruits each day is said to help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and cancer.

Spring activities for seniors in Camden County, NJ

With the weather getting warmer, the teams at United Methodist Communities are always looking for new, safe ways to have fun with our residents! With effective health and safety protocols in place, we have been able to restore and maintain avenues for socialization during COVID-19.

Some activities included guided meditation, chair yoga, virtual tours of the San Diego Zoo and more. We understand the important role socialization plays in everyone’s life and want to ensure our seniors can continue these vital connections both indoors and outdoors starting this spring.

Contact UMC at Collingswood today to find out how we are leading the way in both resident safety, and quality of life for seniors in New Jersey. Our dedicated assisted living team can answer any questions you may have about senior socialization at our community in Camden County, NJ.  Visit https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/collingswood/spring-into-action-seasonal-health-advice-for-older-adults/

The Basics of CCRC Living

 A Continuing Care Retirement Community or CCRC may be a new term for you, especially if you have been recently considering senior community options for yourself or a loved one. If you need the “411” on CCRC living, look no further! Our team at United Methodist Communities at Bristol Glen has put together a crash course just for you.

What is a continuing care retirement community?

When it comes to senior living communities, there is a range of options available. A continuing care community or CCRC combines many services into one community, providing a continuum of care for seniors at every stage of life.

While the newly retired who want to downsize and enjoy great leisure facilities usually elect independent living, CCRCs also accommodate seniors at other levels of need.  Assisted living is for seniors who need additional help with daily living or managing a health condition. Skilled nursing focuses on older adults with more complex health conditions who require 24-hour care. Tapestries memory care caters to older adults with cognitive deficits. Bristol Glen also offers respite, rehabilitation, and transitions.

What are the benefits?

There are several important benefits to consider when looking at a CCRC. Especially, if you are currently living at home, but are looking for the right senior living community to address all your needs:

• Stability – You won’t have to move out from your campus when you choose a CCRC. This is a great benefit for anyone who wants to put down roots, get active in their community, and not have to relocate down the line.
  Bristol Glen’s aging in place philosophy makes residents feel truly at home. Even if your medical needs mean moving to a space that provides more intensive care, you’re still right there in your familiar community.
• Scalability – When you downsize and first move into a CCRC, your primary goal will be to create an easy-to-manage living space. Or maybe your partner requires more assistance than you do. CCRCs are ideal in this sense, because the services are scalable as residents need them.
• Widest range of services – CCRCs cater to seniors with different needs, so they offer the widest range of services of any senior living community. This starts with simple services that make daily life easy and fuss-free: housekeeping, maintenance and security.
  Then, there are services to assist with daily living: wellness and beauty services, dining options, transportation, community clubs, and social events. On top of that, there are specialized care services, such as skilled nursing, short-term rehabilitation, occupational therapy, and 24-hour memory care for residents with dementia.
• Easy socializing – CCRCs like Bristol Glen in NJ focus on supporting independence and promoting an abundant life throughout your senior Because of the diversity of people, amenities and events, finding new friends is easy! You won’t feel lonely, isolated or out of place when there’s a vibrant community of people your age, who share your activities, interests and values.

How to find a great CCRC in New Jersey

There are many different CCRCs around the country, all offering a different lifestyle and range of services for seniors. It’s important to take the time to research your options so you settle on the right community for you. Some key considerations include:

• The quality of the housing, floorplans, gardens, and buildings
• How well the community is maintained
• Associate credentials, personability and availability
• Amenities, clubs, social events, and outings
• Meal programs
• Health care and wellness services
• Personal services to assist with daily living
• Cost of services
• COVID-19 health practices and hygiene policies

Our continuing care retirement community in NJ, Bristol Glen, is a beautiful and welcoming space for seniors, whether you have just retired or are looking for specialized care. We have industry-leading COVID-19 protocols in place and our experienced associates work tirelessly to meet the social, medical and wellness needs of every resident.

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

Original content posted on https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/bristol-glen/the-basics-of-ccrc-living/

At-Home Exercises to Improve Senior Strength and Balance

 

It’s important to maintain balance and strength as we age and become more prone to falls. By performing the right exercises each day, seniors can improve balance and strength in order to maintain great posture and feel more confident when walking anywhere. 

United Methodist Communities HomeWorks has put a list together of senior exercises to improve overall strength and balance. Bonus: exercises can be performed easily at home!

#1 – Heel-to-toe walking

This exercise strengthens leg and hip muscles, helping older adults walk steady without falling. It’s also called the “tightrope walk” because it mimics the movements of balancing on a tightrope.

Steps:

• Place your right foot in front of your left foot, making sure the heel of your left foot touches the toes of your right. Then, put your weight on the heel of your right foot.
• Shift your weight to the toes of your right foot.
• Move your left foot out and in front of your right, shifting weight to the heel of your left foot.
• Shift your weight to the toes of your left foot.
• Repeat for 20 steps.

#2 – Single leg stance

This has to be one of the easiest balancing exercises. The more you do it, the longer you’ll be able to hold the pose. This exercise is also known as a “flamingo stand” because you’ll be copying their signature stance. 

Steps:

• Stand tall with your feet together with relaxed shoulders. Shoulder blades should be flat on your back.
• Shift weight onto your right foot, keeping legs straight and strong.
• Slowly lift your left foot, extending your leg forward and keeping it as straight as possible. Feel free to stand next to a wall or railing for additional balance if needed.
• To make this pose more challenging, reach forward (hinging at the hips) as if you are going to grab your extended foot with your hands.
• Hold for 15 seconds.
• Repeat with the other leg. Perform the exercise 3 times per leg, holding it for about 15 seconds each time.

#3 – Rock the boat

This is an easy balance exercise that anyone (regardless of their fitness level) can attempt. 

Steps:

• Start in a standing position with your feet facing forward, hip distance apart.
• Lift your arms out to either side, holding them slightly higher than shoulder height.
• Lift your left foot, bend your knee and bring your heel in towards your bottom.
• Hold for 30 seconds (or as long as you can).
• Repeat with your right foot, and then alternate 3 times for each side.

#4 – Wall push-ups

If traditional push-ups or knee-assisted push-ups are not in your wheelhouse, then wall push-ups are a great alternative. They take a lot of pressure off the joints, so they are much more comfortable to perform and add to your weekly workout routine.

Steps:

• Stand about an arm’s length away from a wall, facing it head-on. Choose a wall without windows, shelving or decorations.
• Leaning forward slightly, flatten the palms of your hands against the wall at the same height as your shoulders.
• Remember to keep your shoulders relaxed. It will also help to engage your core muscles around your stomach, bottom and pelvis.
• Keep feet flat against the floor (a yoga mat will help give you traction and stability).
• Slowly bend your arms to bring yourself close to the wall, then slowly push back to your starting position.
• Repeat 20 times.

Balancing tips for seniors at home 

It can be difficult to maintain balance during these exercises, but practice makes perfect! If you or a loved one are struggling, then these tips can help maintain stability while building strength:

• Focus your gaze on a fixed point straight ahead of you.
• Place your feet slightly wider than hip distance apart during standing exercises.
• Bend your knees slightly and work up to a standing position over time.
• Try to keep your weight distributed evenly. Most of us have a dominant side we tend to favor, so actively trying to equalize the way you carry your weight will help.
• Ask for help from a family member, friend or home health aide if you are worried about falling. Having somebody there will help make sure the exercises are being performed safely and correctly.

Exercise at home with a home health aide 

UMC HomeWorks  provides seniors with expert care and companionship in New Jersey. Whether your loved one needs assistance with preparing meals, getting dressed, going to appointments, or performing weekly workout routines at home, HomeWorks’ caregivers can be there for them.

HomeWorks can also be a safe care option for your senior parent during this on-going pandemic. Our COVID-19 protocols implemented and updated in accordance with the CDC to help ensure we are providing safe senior care. 

To find out more about our home-based senior care in New Jersey, please contact us today or visit our website at https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/senior-care-new-jersey/

Originally published: https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/at-home-senior-exercises/

How to Spot Seniors with Undernutrition

 

It’s natural to experience a decrease in appetite as we age, but it’s very important that older adults eat a balanced diet and receive adequate nutrients every day. Certain medical conditions, medications and mobility issues can also interfere with seniors’ appetites. It’s essential to be able to recognize the signs of undernutrition, especially if your senior loved one lives alone and you’re not able to be with them for every meal. 

Here are several signs of undernutrition in seniors, and how you can address them:

• You never see any dirty dishes in the sink. Try to visit around standard mealtimes or just after mealtimes, and take notice if there are ever any dirty dishes in the sink, freshly-washed dishes on the drying rack, or if the dishwasher is running. If your loved one’s kitchen is absent of recently-used dishes, gently ask them if you can fix them a meal or a snack, and inquire about the last time they ate. 
• The fridge and the cabinets are nearly empty. While we all love to dine out from time to time, even the least talented chefs have some basic ingredients in the fridge and in the cabinets. Take a peek around your loved one’s kitchen and ensure they are decently stocked with enough basic ingredients to make at least a week’s worth of meals. 
• The fridge and the cabinets often contain expired items. We’ve all left a bag of spinach in the fridge past the expiration date, but our kitchen should not be filled with expired food items constantly. Check your loved one’s fridge to be sure its contents are fresh and good to use. If not, perhaps suggest you go grocery shopping together to be sure they’re buying ingredients they like and can prepare easily. 
• They have dentures but don’t wear them regularly. Most people with dentures keep them in all day and only remove them before sleeping. With that said, if you notice your loved one isn’t wearing them during the daytime when you visit, it could be because they haven’t eaten all day. We recommend asking if their dentures fit properly, and offer to accompany them to the dentist if necessary.

Proper nutrition in assisted living 

At Bristol Glen, our Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), we monitor our residents’ meals and ensure they receive all the nutrients they need on a daily basis. Unlike the outdated stereotype where mealtimes are strict, at Bristol Glen we allow our residents to set their own schedules and eat whenever it makes sense to them. We also have trained associates onsite who tend to any special nutritional needs, dietary requirements, or food intolerances. 

For more information about Bristol Glen, or if you have any questions about CCRCs, please contact our UMC team today. Discover why so many people in Sussex County New Jersey choose us as their trusted assisted living community. 

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/assisted-living/how-to-spot-seniors-with-undernutrition/

Honoring Senior Women for International Women’s Day

 

Margaret Thatcher said it best, “If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman.”

There’s no limit to what women can accomplish. This has already been proven throughout history – by women refusing to be hidden. Especially when they truly acknowledge all that they bring to the table, and refuse to settle for anything less than spectacular. Women are the teachers, artists, physicians, leaders, and the warriors of society – and will continue to be for years to come.

United Methodist Communities celebrates all women for International Women’s Day, and will continue to every day there after. Today is also the perfect opportunity to commemorate some amazing but lesser known women who made outstanding accomplishments later in life.

In the Philippines, Melchora Aquino de Ramos is also known as the Grand Woman of the Revolution. When the revolution broke out against Spain in 1896, Melchora was 84-years-old. She was the widow of a village elder who owned a store in the town of Caloocan. The store became a refuge for injured and sick soldiers, as well as a meeting place. She soon became a sought-out and respected advisor during the revolution. Melchora developed a reputation as someone brave, who could also be trusted as she refused to reveal the location of her people even after she was arrested by the Spanish. Despite her age and the danger she faced, she was a true hero of her time.

Jacqueline Murdock always wanted to become a model, but in the 1950s, there weren’t a lot of opportunities in the fashion industry for black women. As a young woman she became a dancer at Harlem’s Apollo theater, but Jacqueline always retained that dream of being a style icon. At 82-years-old, her dream finally came true when she became the face of the fashion brand Lanvin for their 2012 fall collection.

Jacqueline was a senior who pursued and realized her dreams, despite how much time had passed and how many obstacles stood in her way.

Evelyn Gregory fulfilled her dream of becoming a flight attendant at 72-years-old! After her husband of 42 years passed, she decided to finally chase the childhood dream she put on hold. Evelyn faced a lot of rejection at first, but was finally given a chance at Mesa Airlines in 1999. She is now an inspiration to older women who are considering a new venture in their later lives. A great reminder that it is never too late to follow your passion!

Wilma Mankiller was the first woman to be elected as Principal Chief of the Cherokee nation in 1985. For ten years as chief, Wilma focused on education, job opportunities, and healthcare for her people. Wilma was a woman who realized her true purpose later in life and then fully embraced the philosophy of ‘Ga-Dugi’ – which translates to “in a good way.” She was someone who humbly overcame great obstacles to give a voice to her people.

Wilma’s legacy and positive philosophy lives on through her autobiography, Mankiller: A Chief and Her People.

Mary McLeod Bethune strongly believed that education was the answer to racial advancement. She tirelessly worked toward this goal her whole life as an educator and civil rights activist. Mary founded the Daytona Normal and Industrial Institute in 1904, which later became Bethune-Cookman College. She also founded the National Council of Negro Women in 1935 at 60-years-old. Her achievements are especially remarkable considering she was a child of formerly enslaved people and the first of her family to go to school. Perhaps, she is the best reminder that absolutely anything is possible when you put your mind to it.

Senior living in Collingswood, NJ

At UMC at Collingswood, our assisted living residents can continue to live a full and independent life. We pride ourselves on fostering an environment in which our residents can pursue their hobbies, passions, and interests, while receiving the care they need. As seen in the senior women above, it is never too late to start a new journey. At UMC, you can focus on your passion, while we focus on providing the best care possible.

For more information about UMC at Collingswood, our senior living community in Camden County, New Jersey, please contact our team today. Discover why so many people choose us as their trusted assisted living community by visiting our website at: https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/camden-county-assisted-living-community/

Original content posted on https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/collingswood/honoring-senior-women-for-international-womens-day/

What Are Your Care Options After a Hospital Stay?

 

If you’ve recently been admitted to the hospital and will need short-term or long-term care after your hospital stay, there are several options depending on your circumstances and the level of care required.

Whether you’ve just had surgery and will need assistance with medications, changing bandages, and light chores around the house for a few weeks, or you anticipate more intensive, around-the-clock care, you have a range of options to choose from.

United Methodist Communities has put together a list of care options available to you or a loved one after a hospital stay. There is no “one-size-fits-all” solution for recovery, and it’s important to thoroughly understand your daily requirements, on a personal and medical level, before deciding which care option is best. 

At-home care services

A home health aide is a licensed medical professional who visits your home to provide the care you need. They will usually visit once a day, but this can be modified depending on your unique circumstances. Home health services are often used when someone is recovering from an operation, injury, illness, or if someone has limited mobility and needs help with certain things around the house. Home health aides can be very helpful for older adults who live alone, and when family members aren’t always available to stop by and check in on their loved ones. 

Skilled nursing facilities (SNFs)

These facilities are generally for people who have complex medical conditions or injuries and require a high level of care 24/7. If your loved one will require intensive and professional medical care following their stay in the hospital, a SNF is probably the best choice for them.

They’ll have dedicated medical professionals who are equipped to care for them, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing they’re being properly cared for day and night. People often stay in SNFs immediately following release from the hospital, then after several weeks or months of recuperation, are able to move into an environment with a slightly less intense level of care, such as an assisted living community. 

Assisted living communities

Assisted living communities are extremely diverse in the levels of care they provide. Many people incorrectly assume that assisted living is only for people who want to permanently move in. But actually, many assisted living communities care for people who have recently had a hospital stay and require a certain level of care before returning home. These communities help with transportation to doctors’ visits, medication management, dining, and other daily tasks of living while providing companionship in a social community setting. 

Understanding different levels of care for NJ seniors

UMC at Collingswood, our assisted living community in Camden County, provides customized levels of care to all of our residents. Whether they’re staying with us temporarily after hospitalization, or on a permanent basis, our associates can easily adjust care to fit their schedules and preferences. 

Many older adults are delighted to find that assisted living at UMC allows them to retain their independence and continue pursuing their hobbies and interests. It also brings peace of mind to know that associates are onsite, around the clock to help them with both medical and personal needs when necessary.

For more information about Collingswood, or if you have any questions about our senior care options across New Jersey, please contact United Methodist Communities today. You could also visit our website to learn more at: https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/assisted-living-south-jersey/ 

Original content posted on: https://umcommunities.org/assisted-living/what-are-your-care-options-after-a-hospital-stay/

How to Best Manage Your Loved One’s Health

 

Gandhi said it best, “It is health that is real wealth, not pieces of gold and silver.” We often don’t realize how valuable our health is until it’s too late. That’s why we must prioritize it every single day, especially those of us who are seniors or take care of seniors.

A healthy lifestyle is essential to living the most abundant life in your senior years. If you are a caregiver to a senior loved one, there are three core ways you can help keep track of their health. Our assisted living team in Pitman, NJ has provided insight into these methods and hope they will prove useful in your caregiving journey.

1.       Accompany them to all doctor appointments. Arguably, this is the single best way to keep track of your senior loved one’s health. By accompanying them to all doctors’ appointments, you will acquire the most up-to-date information regarding their health status. If there is something in particular you are concerned about, make a list of questions to discuss with their doctor beforehand. Have you noticed any new symptoms? Are any of their prescribed medications causing harmful side effects? You may notice things that your loved one doesn’t realize or forgets to ask about which can prove very helpful in the long run.

2.       Figure out a solid medication management plan. It’s normal for older adults to take multiple medications. It’s also very easy to get them mixed up, accidentally skipping a dose of one and taking a double dose of another. Fortunately, there are different ways to make managing medications easier. For one, buy a color-coded, easy-to-read weekly pillbox and help set it up for mom or dad. Then, decide on a set time to take the AM and PM pills. Once times are set, your senior loved one can use timers on their smartphones or even apps to remind them to take their medications correctly, and on time. You could also set the same timers or download the same on your phone as a back-up. This may take some time and trial and error to figure out what works best for you and most importantly, your loved one.

3.       Encourage healthy diet and exercise. In short, exercise has been proven to enhance seniors’ health, strength, sleep, mood and lower the risk of falls! Just 30 minutes a day of strength and cardio training will help older adults build the necessary muscle mass to keep them moving without any extra help.
Try yoga, dance classes and short walks around the neighborhood with mom or dad to get started. However, it’s highly recommended to check with their doctor before starting a new exercise routine to ensure two critical things: 1. The exercises are within their ability to perform safely and 2. The exercises won’t make any existing medical conditions worsen.
Couple this new exercise plan with nutritious foods that are easy to prepare. If your loved one does not acquire the master cooking skills of Chef Ramsey, don’t worry! Instead, bring over some healthy frozen meals that can be easily reheated in the oven at a later date. You could also use this opportunity to take a look at their current fridge situation to make sure they aren’t holding onto greasy or expired food.

Assisted living care services in Pitman, NJ

Here at United Methodist Communities at Pitman, we encourage a healthy senior lifestyle for all assisted living residents with a well-equipped team of licensed nurses, therapists and other health specialists. Our care team can manage many complex medical conditions, all while ensuring a proper diet and exercise plan that is – dare, we say it – fun! Activities like group chair yoga can help keep senior residents engaged and social with people their own age. Put your loved one’s health in the best hands possible by considering UMC at Pitman for assisted living.   

If your loved one requires assisted living care services, please call our senior community in Gloucester County to find out how we can meet their needs, as well as yours. To learn more about our senior care options across New Jersey, please contact United Methodist Communities today at: https://umcommunities.org/new-jersey-elder-care-options/

Original content posted on https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2021/03/05/how-to-best-manage-your-loved-ones-health/