Helping Children Understand Dementia

When someone in your family is diagnosed with dementia, it affects everyone. While adults have an easier time understanding dementia, it can be very difficult for children and younger people to grasp what’s happening to someone they love. You may be struggling with how to explain it, what you should and should not tell them, and how best to protect them without shielding them from the truth. Our team has put together this helpful guide you can use when explaining dementia to your children. 

Give Them The Facts

While we understand it’s natural to want to protect your children from information that might scare or upset them, it’s important to share some facts about dementia:

• Dementia is caused by brain cell damage, which prevents the brain cells from communicating with each other. 
• The cause is unknown and there is no cure. This means a person with dementia will continue losing their memories and, perhaps, their ability to physically function. There are certain therapies, treatments, and medications to help people with dementia manage symptoms and enhance their quality of life. 
• Your loved one may eventually not recognize you, but they are still the same person you’ve known your whole life. The fact that they’ve forgotten you isn’t a choice they made, it’s simply a symptom of dementia that is not under their control. 

Explain What It Might Feel Like To Have Dementia

Ask your children to think about how they would feel if they woke up one day and didn’t recognize their surroundings, or any of the faces they see. Help them understand that people with dementia understandably can feel confused, stressed, anxious, frustrated, and despondent, and that they can sometimes have difficulty communicating those feelings. Having your memories taken by dementia is very emotional and hard to experience, and asking your children to imagine what it’s like can help them develop empathy and understanding. 

Be Patient and Let Them Ask Questions

Adjusting to life with dementia is something your whole family will go through collectively. You can’t expect anyone to adjust to such a huge life change quickly or easily, so be patient with your kids while they work through understanding and processing what’s happening. We also recommend you encourage them to ask questions because it’s important for them to know they can talk about difficult things with you. 

Take Them To Visit The Person

If you live close to your loved one with dementia, take your child to visit them regularly. Keeping them away from your loved one won’t benefit anybody during this difficult time. Be sure your kids know they can share their feelings with you, for example, if they’re feeling scared or uncomfortable, and before each visit, you might want to remind them that their loved one may exhibit some concerning behaviors. 

Children are much more intelligent and perceptive than we often give them credit for. If someone in your family has been diagnosed with dementia, it’s important to include your children in the journey and ensure they feel included and listened to. It may be tempting to shield them from difficult situations and uncomfortable conversations, but they deserve to know the truth even when it’s upsetting. 

If you’d like more information about how to help your children understand dementia or if you have questions about best preparing them to visit a loved one with the condition, please contact our expert Tapestries Memory Care team at UMC today. We look forward to hearing from you!                           

To learn more, please visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/

Content originally published: https://umcommunities.org/umc-corp/blog/understand-dementia/

How to Include Your Home Health Aid in Your Holiday Celebration

For many, a home-health aide truly does become like family over time. They spend countless hours with you, not only helping you with unmanageable tasks but also sharing in memories and laughs. With the holidays around the corner, it only feels right to include your home health aid in your holiday celebrations. If youre unsure how to include your home health aide, our experts at UMC HomeWorks have a few ideas for you. 

Deck the Halls Together 

While you might physically need your home health aids help to decorate, it is possible to decorate together in a way that includes them in the festivities rather than just having them assist. Ways to include them can be asking their opinion as to where some of the decorations should go, or even letting them have free range to decorate a few items. This could be decorating the tree, setting up a holiday display, or hanging some festive lights or wreaths. Whatever option you are willing to delegate to them will help them feel included in the process rather than just helping you do it.

Share Traditions 

Another great way to include your home health aide is just through casual conversation. Asking them what their own family traditions are, and sharing stories of how you each celebrate is a nice way to bond and include them in your holiday. You never know, you might even want to incorporate one of their traditions into your holiday! Another option is to start a new tradition with your home health aid, this could be as simple as baking holiday cookies together, having a Christmas movie marathon, or if you feel like getting out of the house you can go see a holiday lights display together. 

Eat Together 

While your home health aide might be there the day of the holiday, they probably aren’t expecting to eat your holiday meal with you. Extending the invitation to eat together is a generous and easy way to include them in your holiday. Rather than watching you eat, they can sit down and enjoy the meal with you. 

Thank you Card or Note 

This last option is very simple but really goes a long way in showing appreciation. Writing out a heartfelt thank you card for your home health aide will brighten their day, make them feel included, and also remind them why they choose to do this job. 

Home Health Aides with UMC HomeWorks

If you’re looking for a home health aide that is the right fit for your needs and lifestyle, UMC HomeWorks can help. Our home health aides are fully trained and truly enjoy their work. At UMC HomeWorks, we are proud to assist seniors to help make their retirement years safe, full, and happy at home.

For more information on our senior home care services in NJ, please contact us today or visit our website at https://umcommunities.org/homeworks/home-health-aide-services/ 

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/homeworks/in-home-senior-care/how-to-include-your-home-health-aid-in-your-holiday-celebration/

Christmas Decorating Ideas for Assisted Living Apartments

If mom has just moved into assisted living, she may be wondering how the holidays are going to be this year. While it’s safe to say that things are going to be different, that doesn’t mean it’s going to be any less special. Even if her new space is much smaller, one thing you can do with your senior parent is decorate for Christmas! Here are some fun decorating ideas for your loved one’s assisted living apartment.

Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree

That’s right, you can still put up a Christmas tree in an assisted living apartment! Depending on your loved one’s senior living community, it might have to be an artificial tree, but fake trees have really come a long way! You can buy one pre-lit which is a great time saver and means no more messing around getting the lights on. Of course, the best perks of an artificial tree have to be no shedding needles or watering necessary!

Tis’ The Season To Be Jolly

Besides the tree, there are a lot of other ways to get festive! Adding a few holiday throw pillows to mom or dad’s existing decor is always a nice and simple touch. Collecting holiday cards to display, a nice wreath to put on your loved one’s door, and holiday poinsettias are all easy, but still festive ways to decorate for the holidays. You could also schedule a night for your kids to come over to grandma’s new apartment and make some handmade decorations. Not only does this become a great activity to do together as a family, but we have a feeling those decorations will quickly become mom’s favorites.

Spread Christmas Cheer

Decorating for Christmas definitely helps us get into the holiday spirit, but spreading that cheer amongst your friends and family is the best feeling of all. Many senior living communities have holiday-themed events, meals, and activities. Every year UMC at the Shores sets up multiple Christmas trees and the residents help fluff and decorate them – complete with special Christmas-themed snacks of course! Local musicians or church choirs also come visit every year to sing Christmas carols and hymns to the residents, which is by far everyone’s favorite holiday activity.

Holidays at UMC at the Shores

We understand if your loved one feels hesitant spending their first holiday in an assisted living community, but we can assure that it is no less of a celebration. In fact, it might actually become a bigger celebration than they’re used to. We are dedicated to making the holidays special and grand at UMC at the Shores. From the entire UMC family, we’d like to wish you, your senior loved one, and your extended family a happy and healthy holiday season!

To learn more about our holiday events in assisted living, please call us today or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/theshores/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/theshores/blog/christmas-decorating-ideas-for-assisted-living-apartments/

Memory Loss: When to Pursue Help

Multiple conditions can cause memory loss, and getting a diagnosis as soon as possible is the best way to keep your loved one safe and provide the care they need. Unfortunately, getting an early diagnosis is not easy for a good number of seniors living with memory loss conditions. For one, it may be difficult to distinguish normal forgetfulness from a very real disease like Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. More importantly, it is beyond difficult for seniors, and their families, to accept that their loved one has a condition like Alzheimer’s disease. It’s important to remember that denial will only cause more harm and will delay treatments that can ultimately provide and prolong a better quality of life for your loved one. In this article, our team of memory caregivers in Gloucester County will go over memory loss symptoms and how to know when it’s time to pursue help.

Normal forgetfulness vs. a memory loss disorder

Even the sharpest of individuals experience forgetfulness once in a while. Common examples of this include forgetting where you put your house key or wallet, forgetting someone’s name that you had just met, or forgetting the password to an online account. As we age, a gradual decline in memory is considered a normal part of the aging process. However, there are telltale signs to decipher between normal, aging forgetfulness and dementia. Here are the most common symptoms that your loved one may be experiencing a more serious memory loss disorder:

• Asking the same questions over and over again
• Forgetting common words when speaking
• Mixing easy words up — for example, saying “bathtub” instead of “bed”
• Taking significantly longer to do familiar daily tasks, like cooking dinner
• Misplacing items in inappropriate places — for example, putting a gallon of milk in a bathroom cabinet
• Getting lost while walking or driving in a familiar area
• Having irrational behavior or mood changes

If what you are noticing in your loved one is not mentioned above, or if you are still unsure about your new observation, it’s important to remember this one “golden rule.” You should seek memory loss help for your loved one if this new behavior affects their ability to work, live independently, or maintain social connections.

Seeking memory loss support for seniors in Gloucester County

It’s not easy to care for a senior with memory loss – especially without any support. If your loved one’s condition worsens and is beyond the help you can physically and mentally provide for them, know that there are resources available. Caring for a loved one with memory loss takes a team, and most of the time the best team can be found at a professional memory care community.

At UMC at Pitman, our Tapestries® memory care program encourages seniors with memory loss to find meaning and purpose in every day by enjoying their hobbies, releasing their tensions, and having social interactions. Our Life Enrichment Team Specialists (LETS) are on site 24/7 to ensure your loved one is safe and well taken care of at all hours of the day. LETS are also professionally trained in the latest memory care methods to maximize your loved one’s quality of life through cognitive exercises, social stimulation, and other proven therapies.

If your loved one is showing early signs of memory loss and you are having difficulty caring for them on your own, please call us today to find out whether a move into the Tapestries memory care neighborhood is the right option. To learn more about memory loss support in Gloucester County, please visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/pitman/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/pitman/blog/memory-loss-when-to-pursue-help/

Ways to Spend New Years with Your Senior Parents

Staying up till midnight to watch the ball drop just may not be in the cards for some seniors. Fortunately, there are so many other fun ways to ring in the New Year with mom and dad. If you’re looking for some new ideas, our team at UMC at Collingswood put together a list of unconventional ways to spend this holiday with your senior parents.

New Year’s Eve Brunch

Who doesn’t love brunch foods… and perhaps a little mimosa? This is an especially great way to celebrate if mom or dad doesn’t usually stay up late past midnight. Celebrate the same way you would at a traditional New Year’s Eve party with fun hats and streamers.  We recommend starting at 11am, so you can have your own ball drop countdown at 12 noon. If your loved one lives in a senior community like UMC at Collingswood, ask their Community Life director if they have an event like this already planned that you can join.

Craft Memory Jars

This is a great bonding activity for the whole family. The best part is that it’s very inexpensive to do. Grab one mason jar for each member of your family, along with craft supplies like glitter or garland to decorate the jars. After each member of your family decorates their own jar to their liking, have them write on little pieces of paper their favorite memories from the past year. After everyone has filled their memory jar, you can exchange them and read each other’s memories and reminisce.

Play Games – Lots of em!

No party is complete without playing some fun games! Our seniors in Camden County especially enjoy a good old fashioned trivia or bingo game. Make a night out of it by asking each member of the family what their favorite game is and incorporating all of their suggestions. Although we don’t condone extreme gambling, you can definitely make game night a little more interesting by placing fun bets. For example, the loser has to prepare dessert for the rest of the family or perform a dare suggested by the winner.

Fun and Independent Seniors in Camden County

At UMC at Collingswood, our residents are free to engage in the lifestyle that makes the most sense to them. Essentially, they can be as involved as they please with their community of peers through many weekly activity classes, themed events, and monthly club meetings. If your loved one wants to engage in an activity that is not currently offered by our community, we strongly encourage them to speak to their Community Life director. Many of our most successful clubs have been started by the residents themselves! By offering many different activities, seniors can exercise their independence by choosing how they would like to socialize with others in our community in Camden County.

To find out more about how we’re keeping seniors active and independent in Camden County, please call us today or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/collingswood/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/collingswood/blog/ways-to-spend-new-years-with-your-senior-parents/

New Holiday Traditions to Start with a Loved One in Assisted Living

Seniors are often sticklers when it comes to maintaining their holiday traditions. However, at UMC at Bristol Glen, we have a few rebels in the bunch who are always up to trying something new. If you are in the mood to do something different, or if you have a loved one who is new to assisted living this holiday season, here are a few ideas for new traditions you can start with them.

Christmas Movie Marathon

A Christmas movie marathon might not seem like a new Christmas tradition to start, but when you combine it with a “hot chocolate tray” it revamps this classic tradition. Everyone can get cozy by the television with a fresh cup of hot chocolate, complete with their favorite toppings! For the hot chocolate tray, you’ll need your favorite brand of hot chocolate and an assortment of toppings. Our favorites are candy canes, mini marshmallows, peppermint oreo cookies, pirouette cookies, caramel drizzle, and, of course, whipped cream! Some of our favorite holiday movies here at Bristol Glen are The Grinch, Home Alone, Charlie Brown Christmas, and a Christmas Carol.

Make and/or Decorate Christmas Cookies

If you don’t feel like following a recipe to bake Christmas cookies from scratch this year, just decorate them – that is the best part after all! You can buy a Pillsbury sugar cookie roll from the refrigerated section, cut the roll into slices, and bake. For the fun part, you’ll need a jar of frosting (or two) and an assortment of Christmas sprinkles. Depending on how involved you want this to be, you could also pick up food coloring, piping bags, and tips to decorate with frosting. The options are endless, so you and your loved one can really get creative! There are also pre-made cookie decorating kits to make life a little bit easier during this busy season.

Take a Drive

Some locations are known for having an over-the-top Christmas lights display. Pick a night, get the family together, and take a drive to one of these attractions that never disappoints! Skylands Stadium is known for a 1-mile drive-through Christmas light show that is set to holiday music, in addition to a Christmas village and winter carnival. No matter how old you are, this Christmas light display will take your breath away. It’s the perfect way to take a break from the holiday stress and fill everyone up with a little Christmas cheer. The Skylands Christmas light show is every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from November 24th- January 9th.

Holidays at our Senior Living Community in Sussex County

Whether you’re a holiday rebel or a traditionalist, we have room for both at UMC at Bristol Glen! We make the holidays a grand celebration with holiday-themed events, traditional meals, sweet snacks, and holiday activities like Christmas PJ day. If your loved one is new to our community, have them reach out about incorporating their holiday traditions here. We are always open to new ideas and are dedicated to making the holidays a time to remember for everyone.

For more information about our activities for seniors in Sussex County, please give us a call or visit us at: https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/blog/new-holiday-traditions-to-start-with-a-loved-one-in-assisted-living/

Is Music Beneficial For Seniors?

The universal power of music is very well-known. Indeed, many of us are music lovers and can attest to its power. Think about how you feel when you hear your favorite song, or when you hear a piece of music that truly moves you.  Music elicits a range of emotions, thoughts, and feelings within us, and it can even remind us of long-forgotten memories, especially for older adults. In this blog, our team discusses the power of music and how it can be very beneficial for seniors. 

Music Reduces Stress And Anxiety

Many of us deal with stress and anxiety on a daily basis and finding effective ways to manage it can be challenging. One of the many benefits of music is that it can reduce stress and anxiety, which is especially important for seniors who may be dealing with health challenges. Listening to music elicits positive emotions, allows us to temporarily forget about our problems, and instils feelings of calm and peacefulness. 

If you or an older loved one are feeling stressed or anxious, try listening to your favorite album or the soundtrack from a film you love. It’s a great way to ground yourself and help your mental health. 

Music Leads to Dancing

Dancing is a fun and active way to express yourself. As we age, we must stay active and continue moving to keep our bodies and our minds healthy. Some people enjoy listening to music and dancing while tidying up around the house, while others enjoy taking dance classes like salsa dancing or ballroom dancing to learn a new skill while experiencing new musical genres. 

For seniors with difficulty standing for long periods, chair dancing is a great alternative. You can still get your groove on while sitting down! Whether you’re an experienced dancer or you have two left feet, dancing is something that everyone can enjoy…so put on your favorite album and get moving!

Music Can Improve Memory

Many older adults struggle with memory issues as they get older, and music is often used to unlock certain memories from various stages of life. People with dementia and Alzheimer’s are often treated with music therapy because it helps them remember certain things from their past. 

When someone is struggling to recall memories, or they’re having difficulty communicating, listening to music from previous decades of their life can help them feel connected to themselves again, and can reduce their agitation and stress.

It Can Be Motivating 

There’s a reason why exercise classes play certain types of music, and there’s a reason why movies and TV shows carefully choose their soundtracks. If you’re struggling to find the motivation to get up and do something, try putting on some fast-paced music – you’ll likely feel more energized, more motivated, and ready to spring into action. 

Music brings people of all ages together, and it can be especially beneficial for older adults. Listening to music you love makes you feel happy, positive, motivated, and energetic, and gives you an overall feeling of well-being. 

If you’d like more information about how music is beneficial for seniors, or if you have any questions about the wide variety of engaging activities UMC residents enjoy, please contact our team today. We look forward to hearing from you and maybe welcoming you soon. 

To learn more, please visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/umc-corp/blog/is-music-beneficial/

Adjusting To Life With A Wheelchair

Using a wheelchair for the first time can be a big adjustment at any age, but especially for seniors, who are usually fiercely holding onto their independence. Whether it’s due to an accident, an illness, or just a general loss of mobility as you age, a wheelchair can actually help you regain your freedom and ultimately make your life much easier.

If you’ve recently found yourself living in a wheelchair, our team at UMC has put together a checklist to help you adjust to your new normal. We know this might be an overwhelming time for you, and it is completely normal to experience a range of emotions.  We hope these tips help as you navigate the adjustment period! 

Attitude Is Key

Have you ever heard the expression “the power of positive thinking”? Indeed, thinking positively can be very powerful, but it can be hard work to not let the negative thoughts win. Rather than viewing yourself as “confined” to a wheelchair, instead think of your wheelchair as your gateway to freedom and resuming your life as normal. If you were unable to walk even very short distances before, your wheelchair will open you up to be mobile, and out and about in the world. 

We also recommend joining a local support group for wheelchair users. You’ll make friends who understand what you’re going through, be able to share mental health tips and funny stories, and you form life-long connections in your community. 

Follow A Personalized Exercise Plan

Just because you’re using a wheelchair doesn’t mean you can’t exercise. In fact, it’s quite the opposite – have you ever seen the Paralympics? Once you feel comfortable in your chair, work with your doctor to develop a personalized exercise plan. It may include arm, chest, core, and shoulder exercises using dumbbells or cable machines at the gym, as well as stretches and mobility exercises to keep your joints healthy, flexible, and strong. 

Some gyms also have personal trainers who specialize in working with people in wheelchairs, so if you want to get serious about fitness, this may be an option for you. 

Give Yourself Time To Adjust 

Repeat this to yourself: patience is key. You can’t expect to adjust to a big life change overnight, and it’s completely normal to cycle through a range of emotions, from frustration to hopefulness to sadness to positivity. Be patient and kind with yourself. While you’re giving yourself time to adjust, it helps to keep yourself busy with activities and hobbies you enjoy. Getting out into the world and living your life in your wheelchair can help you have a smoother adjustment. 

Be Open About When You Need Help And When You Don’t

There is never any shame in asking for help or support. Whether it’s from a family member, a caregiver, or a close friend, we all need help from time to time and as you get used to living with your wheelchair, you’ll probably need some help every once in a while. 

We suggest creating a check-in system with your family if they live close by, where you can text or call to check-in with each other once a day. 

If you’d like more information about how to adjust to life with a wheelchair, or if you have any questions about senior living options that foster independence for adults of all ability levels, please contact our team at UMC today. We look forward to hearing from you, and maybe welcoming you soon!

To learn more, please visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/umc-corp/blog/living-in-a-wheelchair/

How Can a Senior Living Community Help with Osteoporosis?

Many older adults face the complications of osteoporosis – a condition where our bones can become weak and brittle. The good news is they don’t have to face these complications alone. In fact, you might be surprised to learn that living in a senior living community can actually help with treating osteoporosis – here’s how:

Osteoporosis Care and Treatment

When living in a senior community, the caregivers can collaborate with your primary care doctors for osteoporosis treatment. Because your senior living caregivers see you on a regular basis and help with your daily needs, they clearly understand your limitations and difficulties you may face with this new diagnosis. Their observations can be expressed to your primary care doctor, so they can better assess your condition and treatment. Once a treatment plan has been put into place by your doctor, the caregivers in your senior living community can help you stick to that plan. Treatment plans can include therapy and medications, as well as daily reminders to take it easy with some tasks.

Healthy Living Choices

A senior living community provides everything you need in one convenient location. There is a variety of regular exercise classes available to seniors of all mobility types. Physical therapy is also offered regularly and tailored to your specific needs. In addition to staying physically active, nutrition also plays a large role in healthy senior living. At a community like UMC at The Shores, all of your meals are provided by a professionally trained culinary staff who prioritize balanced and healthy diets, without sacrificing delicious flavors! Making healthy living choices that are readily available to you in a senior community can retain your strength, which can only help along with osteoporosis care.

Emotional Support

You are surrounded by friends and caregivers who feel like family when you choose to reside at a senior living community. Having this support team behind you when dealing with osteoporosis can really help your morale and motivation. Knowing other people are going through something similar, or being able to rely on trained and compassionate caregivers, goes a long way in the management and treatment of this medical condition.

Healthy Senior Lifestyles at UMC at The Shores

Residing at a senior living community like UMC at The Shores can help you age in place, retain independence, and make the most of your retirement years. At our full-service community, you can count on around-the-clock medical support when needed and enjoy social connections with other residents through the many activities available on a daily basis.

If you would like to learn more about healthy senior lifestyles in South Jersey, please visit our website today at: https://umcommunities.org/theshores/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/theshores/blog/how-can-a-senior-living-community-help-with-osteoporosis/

How to Cope with Winter Depression

Staying healthy during the winter can be a challenge for anyone, but can be especially difficult for older adults with compromised immune systems, limited mobility, or a less than clear state of mind. Did you know the changing of seasons has a tangible effect on your mental wellbeing? Winter depression, or seasonal affective disorder, is a very real thing. In this article, we will go over what winter depression is, why seniors are more likely to experience it, and methods to help them avoid or manage it.

What is Winter Depression (Seasonal Affective Disorder)?

This is a type of depression that is brought on by the changing of seasons, usually starting in the fall and continuing into winter – hence the alternate name: winter depression. Surprisingly enough, there are some seniors who experience this seasonal depression starting in the spring and continuing into summer, but it is much less common. The most notable symptoms for winter depression are:

• Feeling sad or down most of the day, especially on a particularly cold or gloomy day
• Oversleeping, or not wanting to get out of bed in the morning
• Overeating, weight gain, and specific cravings for carbohydrates
• Low energy and tiredness
• Feelings of guilt for losing interest in beloved activities and not accomplishing more throughout the day

It’s important to note, there is a significant difference between the “winter blues” and winter depression.  Occasionally feeling a bit sad when it gets colder and darker is expected, while true winter depression results in a severe lack of motivation and can leave people feeling down for at least several days at a time. If you are noticing these changes in your senior loved one, as well as changed patterns in their sleeping, appetite or alcohol consumption – it is time to alert their primary care physician.

Why are Seniors More Susceptible to Winter Depression?

Seniors can be more susceptible to winter depression for two major reasons. One being their aversion or sensitivity to the cold, and the other, perhaps most important reason being their lack of social connections. Checking in on your senior loved one should be a top priority during the cold winter months, especially if they are living alone. If you are afraid your senior parent is a candidate for winter depression, there are ways to keep this disorder at bay.

Methods to Avoid Winter Depression in Seniors

Encourage seniors to eat healthily. If your loved one is struggling with meal preparation in the winter, try to choose frozen vegetables over canned, and encourage them to eat plenty of seasonal fruits and vegetables like cranberries, citrus, and pomegranates. They should also include fish, poultry, and eggs into their diet for healthy, lean protein on a daily basis. If mom or dad struggle with getting their groceries in darker, colder, or wintry weather, see if family or friends are able to help with the shopping or get them set up for online grocery delivery.

Take their vitamins daily. Seniors tend to be more vitamin D deficient in the colder weather, due to lack of sun exposure by staying indoors more often. Daily vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, and fish oil tablets are all good supplements to have on hand for your loved one.

Exercise outdoors with precautions. If your loved one’s healthcare provider gives the go-ahead, there’s no reason why they can’t continue exercising outdoors with a few precautions. Ensure they wear proper footwear to prevent slips and falls, layer warm clothing, and be sure check the weather before heading outside.

Stay in touch. As we briefly mentioned, it can be easy for seniors to withdraw and become isolated during the winter. This is because it requires more effort to leave the house and socialize with others in cold weather conditions. Watch out for these symptoms in your loved ones and keep them at bay by arranging a daily check-in system with nearby family and friends.

Join a senior community. Moving is no easy feat, but it may just be the best option for your loved one’s state of mind. Living in a senior community, surrounded by peers who enjoy the same interests and friendly staff who encourage residents to get involved with the many activities available, will encourage your loved one to create and maintain social connections. Living in a community setting is especially beneficial during winter, because residents do not have to leave their nice, warm building to engage in social activities.

Independent lifestyles with meaningful connection in beautiful Pitman, New Jersey

UMC at Pitman is part of United Methodist Communities, a network of senior living communities specializing in high quality care and support for older adults. Our community in Gloucester County, NJ, is known for its spacious residential apartments and wide range of amenities available all year round for residents. With experienced caregivers on hand to provide assistance around the clock, residents enjoy all the benefits of living independently. Our aim is to encourage residents to “age in place,” through the comfort of familiar surroundings, expert care, and many opportunities to socialize with people who share the same passions in life.

For more information about independent lifestyles at UMC at Pitman, or if you have questions about social activities for seniors in Gloucester County, please contact us today or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/pitman/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/pitman/blog/how-to-cope-with-winter-depression/

Most Useful Apps for Older Adults in Senior Living

What’s up? Or should we say, “what’s app?” If you haven’t heard, it’s National App Day, and here at UMC at Collingswood our residents fully embrace the simple solutions and peace of mind that apps can bring. With that being said, our associates have put together a list of the most useful apps for seniors who would like to live a more independent lifestyle.

K4Community Plus App

K4 is the app we use most often at Collingswood, and for good reason. This resident-facing app keeps seniors not only connected to what’s going on in our community, but also with their family and friends outside of UMC at Collingswood. With K4’s push notifications and live community social feed, residents won’t miss a beat! Some of K4’s other great features include resident and staff directories, activity calendars, apartment maintenance requests, easily integrated family contacts, and updated dining menus.

Dragon Anywhere

This app is ideal for seniors who aren’t the best when it comes to texting or typing, but still need to keep up with their busy schedules. Dragon Anywhere allows users to more easily use their voice to dictate a text or email. It’s more intuitive than the voice to text function that automatically comes with smartphones because the app will automatically adapt to the unique way the user speaks.

Find My Parked Car

It’s happened to everyone and it’s nothing to be embarrassed about: forgetting where you parked the car. With the Find My Parked Car app, you can simply save your parking location and then access it at a later time. All you have to do is open the app after parking, press the park button, and your location will be automatically saved! The app’s other features include alarm notifications for metered parking, ability to share parking locations with others, and viewing past parking history.

Pocket Physio

Ideal for those recovering from hip or knee replacement surgery, Pocket Physio’s intent is to enhance the user’s independence through physiotherapy exercises. The app provides videos and text instructions that help the user establish a strong, daily exercise routine. It’s great to use even in preparation before surgery, and includes sound advice on hip precautions, breathing exercises, pain management, and tips for walking with pain or crutches.

Senior Living and Learning in Collingswood, NJ

We fully understand and embrace how technology can improve the independence of our residents here at UMC at Collingswood. The apps that our residents and associates use keep everyone informed, engaged, and in-sync with what’s going on in our community. Whether it’s the announcement of a new resident moving in, a new event featuring live entertainment, or new safety guidelines, we have the technology and teaching methods in place to ensure everyone is up to date at Collingswood. Besides incorporating the latest in technology, our community also encourages seniors to keep learning through game nights, activity classes, digital museum tours, and book clubs – just to name a few of the many opportunities available.

For more information about senior learning opportunities in Camden County, New Jersey, please contact our team today. Learn about what community life is really like by visiting our website at: https://umcommunities.org/collingswood/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/collingswood/blog/most-useful-apps-for-older-adults-in-senior-living/

No Baking Required, Peppermint Pie

We confess we are big fans of the no-bake desserts. Who needs to deal with the oven anyway?! No-bake treats are perfect for anyone to make: kids, adults, and seniors. Better yet, they are delicious for everyone to eat as well! This no-bake peppermint pie is as easy as it gets and just might become a new holiday tradition for your family.

Ingredients and Tools to Make Peppermint Pie

Filling & Topping:

• 1½ cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/3 cup confectioners sugar
• 1 package cream cheese (8 ounces), softened
• 1 cup white candy melts, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract
• Red food coloring
• Peppermint crunch sprinkles

Crust:

• 30 chocolate wafer cookies
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ¼ cup butter, melted.

Tools:

• Pie pan
• Food processor
• 2 large bowls
• Electric mixer

Let’s Get Started!

First things first, we have to make the crust. Combine the cookies and sugar in the food processor and grind until they are completely broken down. Add the melted butter and pulse the mixture until it is fully combined. Empty the mixture into your pie plate and press into the bottom and sides to form the crust. Once this is done, refrigerate the crust while starting to work on the filling.

To prepare the filling and topping, combine heavy whipping cream and confectioners sugar in a large bowl. Use an electric mixer on high until stiff peaks form.

In another large bowl, beat the cream cheese until it is smooth, then add in the melted candy melts and beat together until combined and smooth. Optional: Add in red food coloring for a little more holiday spirit.

Spread the cream cheese mixture into the pie crust and top with the whipped cream mixture. Refrigerate to set for at least 1 hour.

Once set, add your toppings. We recommend crushed candy canes and peppermint crunch sprinkles. Let the pie chill in the fridge until a few minutes before serving.

Happy Holidays from UMC at Bristol Glen

On behalf of our team in Sussex County, we’d like to wish all of our residents and their families a happy and healthy holiday season! We look forward to spending more time together and taking part in fun holiday activities like baking cookies, watching the classics in our Christmas PJs, and maybe even some friendly decorating competitions.

To find out more about how we are spending the holidays in our independent living community in Newton, NJ, please call us today or visit us at: https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/blog/no-baking-required-peppermint-pie/

A Packing List For Your Move To A Senior Living Community

If you’re preparing to move into a senior living community, you probably feel overwhelmed at the prospect of packing all of your things. You undoubtedly want to feel comfortable in your new home, and you want the transition to be as smooth as possible, but you might not know which belongings are essential to pack, and which items you can safely leave behind. Our team has put together this helpful packing checklist to help you make those tough decisions. 

Ask Beforehand What Is Provided At The Senior Living Community

We recommend you visit your future home and take notes about what will be provided for you. You may have a furnished room or you may be able to bring your own furniture, and perhaps your senior living community will provide you with bedding and towels, or perhaps you’ll bring your own. Other things to check for include a television and cable service, WiFi, laundry service, and a small refrigerator for your room. The staff in your new community will want to make your transition as easy as possible, so be sure to ask if you have specific questions.

Choose Small Items That Feel Like Home

As you prepare to move into your new home, think about where you currently live. What makes it feel like home? What items in your home make you feel happy? Small items and little touches can have a big, positive impact in your new home – things like photo albums, family photos, homemade gifts from over the years, and sentimental things like jewelry that have been passed down to you. 

You may have a favorite lamp, a piece of art you love, or a cozy blanket you snuggle up with on a chilly winter evening. Take inventory of your current home and make a list of all the smaller items that will give your new home that special feeling. 

Pack The Clothes You Use The Most

Moving is a great opportunity to get rid of clothes you no longer wear. Many of us have a habit of hanging onto certain items of clothing for a little too long, whether it’s an old pair of jeans we know we won’t wear again, or a worn-out sweater that has seen better days. 

Even if you have a very spacious closet at your new senior living community, we recommend packing the clothes that you wear the most. Choose your favorite jeans, shirts, cardigans, and other items like shoes and belts, and consider donating everything else. 

Remember All Your Toiletries

Our toiletries form an important part of our daily routine. You likely have a preferred shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, toothpaste, and other grooming products you use on a daily basis. Bringing your trusted toiletries to your new home is a great way to help you settle in more quickly.  When it comes to products like perfumes and colognes, having a familiar scent can make you feel more at home. 

Your senior living community may have a pharmacy or a store where you can stock up on the essentials, but please bring all your toiletries from home to start. 

If you’d like more information about how to efficiently pack for your move to a senior living community, or if you have any questions, please contact our team at UMC today. We look forward to hearing from you, and perhaps welcoming you soon!

To learn more, please visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/umc-corp/blog/senior-living-community/

Holiday Dessert No Baking Required!

 

What’s better than a holiday dessert you ask? A holiday dessert that doesn’t require baking! This is the perfect option for seniors and children alike but really for anyone who doesn’t want to turn on the oven! Cooking and baking for the holiday is a lot of work, and in most cases it’s rough on your oven. Often you are playing tetris with your dishes and there isn’t any space for another thing! That’s where these no-bake desserts really come in to save the day. And, a a bonus,  you can make them the day before to make the holiday a little easier on yourself.

Milk ’n’ Cookies Icebox Cake 

This is our favorite no bake dessert, it is a sophisticated twist on the classic and adored milk and cookies. This show stopping dessert is only four ingredients, you’ll need:

2 packets of chocolate chip cookies

3 cups of heavy cream

1 block of cream cheese, softened

2 tbsp. of powdered sugar. 

Step 1: In a large sealable bag crush 15 chocolate chip cookies with a rolling pin. Transfer most of the cookies to a large liquid measuring cup and put the rest aside to decorate at the end. Add 3 cups heavy cream to the measuring cup and refrigerate for 10 minutes. 

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl add cream cheese and beat with an electric mixer for 1 minute. And 2 tbsp of sugar and beat until smooth. Then add cookie infused cream and beat until soft peaks form. 

Step 4: get your cake plate and spread a thin layer of whipped cream in a circle on the plate. Arrange 8 cookies side by side in the circle working from the inside out placing three cookies in the center. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream on top and add another layer of cookies. *make sure to alternate the cookies so they overlap each other. Repeat until you have six layers ending with whipped cream on the top. 

Step 5: Top with crushed cookies, then loosely wrap cake with plastic wrap and transfer to the fridge to chill(about 6 hours)

Ready, Set, Serve!

Once the cake has set for at least 6 hours, remove plastic wrap and it is ready to serve. Although we recommend keeping the cake in the fridge until you’re ready to eat. This will ensure optimal freshness! We Wish You a Happy And Healthy Holiday From Everyone at UMC HomeWorks.

https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/elderly-home-health-care-nj/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/homeworks/blog/holiday-dessert-no-baking-required/

A Thanksgiving Day Stuffing Recipe from The Team at UMC

Tis’ the season for obsessive conversations about food, so lest we be remiss…let’s talk stuffing! Whether you’re one who prefers the out-of-the-box stuffing, or someone who likes to add all the extra fixings to your stuffing (like cranberries and walnuts!) – our expert chefs at United Methodist Communities have you covered. Their recipe is for all the diehard stuffing fans out there: it’s simple and classic, but you really can’t go wrong with fresh herbs, fresh ingredients, and a lot of butter!

Buttery Herb Stuffing Ingredients:

• 18 to 24 ounces bread cubes preferably toasted or stale, (1.5 loaves of bread, or about 12 to 14 cups)

• 1 cup unsalted butter

• 3 cups diced sweet onion (roughly 2 large onions)

• 2 cups diced celery

• 6 minced garlic cloves

• kosher salt and pepper

• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh sage

• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary

• 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable stock

• 2 large eggs

• a mixture of fresh herbs for sprinkling

A Note About The Bread Cubes:

If you don’t have stale bread on hand, you can cube the bread and toast it in the oven for 15 minutes at 350 degrees. Ideally, prep the night before so you can cut the bread into cubes and leave it out overnight loosely covered with tin foil. You can also mix the types of bread you use. For this recipe, we love using half sourdough bread and half Italian bread for a nice mixture of flavor.

Instructions for Thanksgiving Buttery Herb Stuffing:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Brush your baking dish with olive oil, butter, or a non-stick spray. You can use various different sizes for this, but we will be using a 9×13 baking dish. Start by placing your bread cubes into a large bowl, or right into the baking dish (whichever is easier for you to stir).

 

Next, we are going to heat the butter in a large skillet, and stir in onions, celery, and garlic with a big pinch of salt and pepper ( approx. ½-1 teaspoon each). Let simmer until the onions and celery soften and become translucent. Stir in the sage, parsley, and rosemary and cook for another minute. Then, stir in 1 cup of stock. Turn off the heat and pour over bread cubes and toss well to coat.

In a small bowl, whisk together 2 eggs and the remaining 1 ½ cups of stock and pour over the bread cubes. Fold in breadcrumbs until the mixture is thoroughly combined.

Bake the stuffing for 45 to 50 minutes, until the internal temperature registers 160 degrees. If the stuffing is getting too browned, you can tent it with foil.

Note about reheating: You can make this the day before and reheat it, but we recommend you remove the stuffing from the fridge an hour before you plan to reheat it. If you are serving 12-18 people, it’s best to double the recipe and bake in two 9×13 baking dishes and bake approximately an extra 15 minutes.

UMC HomeWorks Can Help Seniors Prepare for the Holidays

If mom or dad is still living at home and insists on hosting this holiday, they will most definitely need help shopping and preparing the signature Thanksgiving feast. This is rewarding work, but it is work nonetheless and it may not be something you have time for this year with your own family to worry about. Fortunately, our home health aides across New Jersey are ready to step in!

Whether temporarily for the holidays or regularly each week, our certified aides can come into your loved ones’ homes to help prepare meals or to assist with other daily tasks of living like getting dressed, going to the bathroom, or managing medications. With UMC Homeworks, you can find the perfect person to meet your loved ones’ needs and schedule. For more information, give us a call today or visit our website at: https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/elderly-home-health-care-nj/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/homeworks/at-home-care/a-thanksgiving-day-stuffing-recipe-from-the-team-at-umc/

Holidays in Assisted Living

 

If this is your loved one’s first holiday in assisted living you may be wondering how to make it special and keep your old family traditions alive. While this year might look different than previous holidays based on mom or dad’s personal care needs, there’s always a way to make this season special. Traditions can always be modified, and you and your loved one will even have opportunities to make some new ones. With that said, our experts at UMC at The Shores put together some holiday ideas for you and your loved one in assisted living.

Festive Outings

If mom is willing and able, holiday outings are a great way to enjoy the season together. Some ideas can be driving around the neighborhood to see holiday light displays, or going to see a classic Christmas show at a local theater. Outings can also be as simple as bringing your loved one back to your house to bake the Christmas cookies you’ve been making together for as long as you can remember. If possible, pick up mom on the morning of the holiday, so you can spend the day together.

Prioritize Your Traditions and Make More

As we mentioned above, if baking cookies is your non-negotiable holiday tradition, bring your loved one to your home and make it happen. If leaving the assisted living community isn’t an option for them, bring the baked cookies to them and decorate the cookies together, or just eat them together! While the tradition might not look exactly the same as it has in the years before, it can still live on. Consider making new traditions as well. One idea for a new tradition could be watching Christmas movies together with a good ol’ cup of hot chocolate in their assisted living apartment. When starting a new tradition keep it simple. The goal is to enjoy the time you spend together and not to overthink it.

Deck the Halls!

Just because dad has a new home in assisted living, it doesn’t mean you need to skip the holiday decorations! You can pick up a small artificial Christmas tree, bonus if it is prelit, and hang those keepsake ornaments neither of you could part with. Hanging stockings or a festive wreath and getting a holiday plant like a poinsettia are also great, simple options to spruce up your dad’s space for the holiday.

Holidays in Assisted living at UMC at The Shores

Did you know that UMC has their own holiday traditions that have become resident favorites over the years? Each of our communities has an annual “tree fluffing” or decoration session where they take out all the artificial trees and decorate them for the holiday. Themed crafts and activities fill the calendars, as well as special holiday themed snacks and desserts from the chefs. A resident and staff favorite at The Shores in particular, are visits from the local church choirs, school choruses, and local musicians that come to perform Christmas carols and hymns. We also encourage our residents, and their families, to keep their traditions going in our communities. If you need a little assistance modifying a family tradition for community living, there is always a trustworthy associate available and willing to help.

To learn more about how we are spending the holidays in assisted living, please visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/theshores/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/theshores/blog/holidays-in-assisted-living/

Preparing for the Holidays in Assisted Living

 

One of the hardest parts of adjusting to having a family member in assisted living is navigating the first holiday. The change in surroundings and family dynamics can bring up mixed emotions, especially if mom always used to host Christmas dinner in the house you grew up in. Fortunately, it’s the people who make the holidays special, not the location. Your loved one may be living in a community now, but they’re still able to celebrate the holidays with you. There are tons of different ways to make Christmas feel special, even if it’s no longer celebrated in your loved one’s home. Our assisted living team at UMC at Pitman put together some ways to celebrate the upcoming holidays if you have parents who are new to our independent lifestyle community in Gloucester County.

Hunker down and watch classic holiday movies. Classic movies like Miracle on 34th Street, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation can bring back past memories for your loved one. Viewing them as a family might remind them of you and your siblings excitedly opening presents under the tree, or even holidays they spent as little kids. A holiday movie night is also a great tradition to start if mom or dad has mobility issues. Make an event out of it and get your immediate family over to their apartment – and don’t forget the movie theater-style popcorn and fresh baked holiday cookies!

Get their apartment holiday-ready. Just because your loved one is no longer a homeowner, doesn’t mean they can’t decorate for Christmas. They can still go all out with decorations even if their space is smaller. Instead of having one big Christmas tree, opt for a few smaller ones to place throughout their assisted living apartment. The best part about decorating an apartment vs. a house is that clean-up will be much easier come January!

Encourage them to celebrate with their new community. Many assisted living communities, like UMC at Pitman, have a lot of fun seasonal activities planned for the holidays. Encourage your loved one to get involved, and if possible, join them for a holiday event or meal on site. From Christmas PJ day, to holiday movie night to Christmas cookie bake-offs, there is an activity to interest every resident at Pitman.

Blend the old with the new. The holidays will look different, but some things don’t have to change. If you always helped dad buy gifts for the family, make sure the same thing happens this year. If mom always loved to decorate sugar cookies with the grandkids, bring them over to her new apartment and make a day out of it. Blending old traditions with new will help everyone transition to this big change in no time.

Spending the holidays at UMC at Pitman

As we mentioned above, we have a ton of festive events and activities planned to get your loved one into the holiday spirit. Not to mention, any of the activities offered can be modified to accommodate mom or dad’s needs. The most important thing for us, is that all of our residents, short-term and full-time, enjoy the holidays in our community!

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

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/pitman/blog/preparing-for-the-holidays-in-assisted-living/

Dementia and The Holidays: What to Expect with Your Loved One

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, it’s only natural to start thinking about the holidays. While it’s a happy time for most families, it’s important to be mindful that it’s also a very tough time for others who may be coping with serious issues or life transitions. It can be especially hard for those who have a loved one with a dementia diagnosis as the holidays don’t look the same anymore. Century-long traditions like decorating the tree may be forgotten and your loved one with dementia may not even remember Christmas is coming. It’s completely normal to be upset over this, but there are ways to still make the most out of the season and ensure your family can experience some holiday cheer.

Space out holiday visits. Understandably, everyone in your family is going to handle the dementia diagnosis of a loved one differently. It’s important to give each person enough time to sit with the news and digest it before the holidays roll around. After everyone is made aware of the situation and has had ample time to process, next comes the conversation about how the holidays will be different this year. Seniors with dementia can easily become overwhelmed by big crowds, so the traditional Christmas dinner with your children, siblings, nieces and nephews may not be the best bet. Instead, discuss alternate arrangements with your family that will put the needs of your loved one first. Spacing out holiday visits over the course of a few days can be much less overwhelming than one big Christmas celebration. This may seem like a downer, but staggering the holiday celebrations will allow each person in your family the opportunity to have a more meaningful connection with your loved one.

Go with the flow! This can be especially difficult if you’re more of a Type A personality, but it’s essential to adopt the “go with the flow” philosophy when it comes to dementia. Because the forgetfulness comes and goes, it’s much easier for everyone to just roll with what your loved one needs in that moment instead of trying to correct them. Attempting to “correct” their behavior could lead to even more feelings of confusion or agitation. For example, if your loved one says it’s time for dessert after the appetizers, let them eat cake!

Try starting new traditions. Depending on the severity of their diagnosis, your loved one might not be able to take part in the same yearly traditions like going to cut down the Christmas tree or cooking a 12 course holiday dinner from scratch. However, this doesn’t mean the holiday spirit is gone. Try something new with your loved one like wrapping gifts or making ornaments together. Avoid using any decorations that are too flashy with blinking lights or loud noises as they can be especially unsettling for people with dementia. Painting a snowy Christmas scene on a round ornament could be very fun and even therapeutic for your loved one.

Memory support for seniors in Camden County NJ

One of the best ways your loved one can maximize their cognitive abilities and retain their independence is through professional memory support in a community setting. At Collingswood, Tapestries memory care residents have the opportunity to live in a caring, homelike environment where they are safe to enjoy their hobbies and have meaningful experiences this holiday season, as well as every day after.

We also have Life Enrichment Team Specialists on site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide specialized support for Tapestries residents, which includes personal care and cognitive exercises to maximize quality of life.

If your loved one is showing early signs of dementia, please call UMC at Collingswood today to find out how our memory care team can meet the needs of your senior parent. To learn more about Tapestries memory care in Camden County, please visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/collingswood

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/collingswood/blog/dementia-and-the-holidays-what-to-expect-with-your-loved-one/