Senior Communities and Family – Stay Connected

Staying connected to friends and family outside of assisted living is very important for the mental health of seniors. Today that means using the internet, but with one-third of Americans over the age of 65 not confident in using the internet, communication can be a struggle for many families. Here are some tips on keeping in touch and making friends in assisted living, from our community in Cape May County.

• Teach your seniors – The internet is a fantastic communication tool for seniors, so it’s worth it for younger family members to teach senior loved ones how to use it. Try to teach them one tool at a time, starting with very simple apps and platforms that they can easily utilize. For example, if they already use Facebook, teach them how to send texts and make calls through Facebook messenger. If they are confident with texting, teach them how to use WhatsApp.

• Play together – Start family gaming groups based on your loved one’s interests and get everyone involved. We have a race to share our Wordle each morning, but it can be much more than just that! There are so many different apps and games that you can play together from wherever you are, so keep trying till you find one you love. Some good ideas include Minecraft, Words with Friends, Mario Kart, Family Feud, and Ticket to Ride. Playing games is also great for making friends in assisted living, especially for seniors with mobility issues.

• Schedule family calls – Microsoft Teams, Skype, and Zoom aren’t just for work video conferences – they’re great for family catchups too! You can have a set time each week where you all get together on a video chat with your loved one in assisted living. Video calls are especially useful for family and friends who are out of town or living overseas. You can easily schedule them through your email, and an assisted living staff member or nearby family member can help set this up on their computer.

• Have face-to-face time – Today’s seniors do value the internet, but there’s no substitute for one-on-one time with the people they love! Try to see them in person on a regular basis. Whether it’s popping in for a cup of coffee, bringing them groceries and having a quick lunch together, or scheduling a family dinner once a week, every moment is precious.

• Create a family project – There is something special in every family, so why not create a project around it and get your senior loved one involved? This might be collecting family recipes and turning them into a family cookbook, exploring your genealogy and family history, or learning a skill from them. It can be helpful to have an activity to do while spending quality time together.  It’s a wonderful way to show them that they have exceptional value to pass on to younger generations, and it also gives people a sense of purpose and something to look forward to doing together.

A warm and welcoming assisted living community in Cape May County                                                           

At UMC at The Shores, an assisted living community in South Jersey, we know how important healthy social connections are to the quality of life. In addition to supporting you in staying in touch with your loved one in-person and through technology, we also have a lively social calendar, a wide range of clubs, and outings throughout the year. To find out more about making friends in assisted living or assisted living in South Jersey, contact us today or visit our website at https://theshores.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://theshores.umcommunities.org/the-shores/senior-communities-and-family-stay-connected/

4 Handmade Craft Ideas for Seniors

It’s National Handmade Day – and what better way to celebrate than with your crafty senior loved one. Whether it’s baked goods, beauty products, or home decor, those who create handmade gifts do so with an artistic eye. And for anyone who has ever received a homemade gift, you know how special it is to receive a one-of-a-kind treasure from someone you love! If you’re looking for inspiration, here are 4 handmade craft ideas for you and your senior to take part in.

1. Homemade heating pads. These can be great for aches and pains, but also make great handmade gifts that are simple to create. The materials can be found around your house unless of course, you want to buy something specifically for it.  You don’t need to be an expert sewer or even need a sewing machine; anyone can make these.
2. 4  ingredient sugar cookies. This is for all of our seniors who love to bake! As you know, baking from scratch can be a lot of work and can also make a large mess. This recipe has only four ingredients so you get that homemade feeling without a drawn-out recipe or a big mess to clean up!
3. Make some homemade play dough with the grandkids. Most of these ingredients are around the house. It only takes about fifteen minutes or less to make and, if stored properly, it will last about three months. This is a great activity for when the grandkids come to visit or even a stress reliever for you. Because really, who doesn’t love play dough?
4. No sew fleece blanket This project does require going out to get the fabric unless you happen to have a few yards of fleece fabric on hand at home. We promise the finished product is so worth the trip, though! You can make this for yourself or to give it as gifts for holidays and birthdays.

When making something handmade, remember that it’s not always about the finished product but rather about the process of making it. If you’re trying something new, remember that it can take a few times before you get good at it, it’s all a part of the experience. Working with your hands is peaceful to the mind and allows you to get out of your head and into a creative flow. This is very important for seniors as it can reduce stress. Not to mention some of the things you make can be great gifts, or even a sweet treat to enjoy with others…and that is priceless.

Independent living at UMC Pitman

You are never short of opportunities to get creative at UMC Pitman! Caregivers are always willing to help when needed or you can always attend regularly scheduled arts and craft classes. This way not only do you get to get the creative juices flowing, but you can also do so with your friends! If you have any questions about UMC Pitman’s regularly scheduled classes please contact us today. Visit our website at https://pitman.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2022/04/26/4-handmade-craft-ideas-for-seniors/

5 Inspiring Books for Seniors

Reading is not only beneficial for a senior’s mind but it is also a way to travel the world, to live many different lives, chase dreams, and broaden horizons. You can read about any subject you like whether it’s about cars, sports, gardening, or fiction topics like romance, adventure, or suspense…the options are truly endless! If someone says they don’t like to read, it often means they just hasn’t found the right book yet. If you’re an avid reader, you know that feeling you have when you get a book so riveting that you literally do not want to put it down! We at UMC at Collingswood put together a list of five inspiring books we feel will help anyone fall in love with reading.

1. The Nightingale by Kristen Hannah. This novel is a page-turner about two strong minded sisters in world war two, and their very different reactions to the war. It is a story about love, freedom, and survival, and celebrates the resilience of the human spirit and strength of these two sisters. It is a must-read for anyone who loves US History.
2. The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie, by Alan Bradley. Sorry, this one isn’t actually about pie, but you won’t be disappointed. This is an old-fashioned murder mystery set in the 1950s English countryside. The main character is a child who is an aspiring chemist and is determined to clear her father’s name of a murder charge. This novel is written with an impressive tone and in-depth character development. Even better, it’s a ten-book series so you’ll have a story to follow for a long time!
3. The Help by Kathryn Stockett. A heartbreaking and hilarious story of African American women, the white woman they work for, and the children they raise. The author says this is a fiction story although it depicts many truths of the cultural differences in America in 1962. You will really feel for the characters in this book and come to love them. This book has also been made into a movie, so once you finish the book you can enjoy the movie as well.
4. The Immortal life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot. This is a true story about an enslaved southern tobacco farmer who unknowingly had some of her cells taken from her. Although she passed away over 60 years ago, her cells become one of the most important tools in modern medicine. Her stolen cells were responsible for the polio vaccine, uncovering secrets of cancer and other viruses, as well as fertilization, gene mapping, and cloning. This story spans her life, when the cells were stolen, her death, all the amazing things that were developed with her cells, and controversial information regarding scientists. Author Rebecca Skloot covers all the details in this must-read book!
5. The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood. This novel is set in a future dystopia where women lose all the rights they have today and, because of declining birthrates, are only truly valuable if they are able to bear children. This story speaks to women’s rights, women’s role in society, the role of childbearing, and the complex role religion and government has in society.

If none of these books get you excited to read, we hope that you don’t give up on reading and encourage you to find a topic that sparks your interest. UMC at Collingswood believes there is a book for everyone.

Reading is riveting at Collingswood

UMC at Collingswood actually has a well-established and active resident book club! Here residents get together monthly to decide what books to read and to discuss their opinions afterward. In February the group read “The Giver of Stars” by JoJo Moyes, and in March they read “The Gods of Heavenly Punishment” by Jennifer Cody Epstein. Committing to a book club is a great way to keep yourself dedicated to reading, as well as an opportunity to enjoy a great discussion with friends.

If you are a resident of the assisted living community and would like to join the book club or have any questions, please contact us at UMC at Collingswood. Visit our website at – https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/collingswood/5-inspiring-books-for-seniors/

7 Early Warning Signs of Dementia

It’s important to be on the lookout for early warning signs of dementia in your loved ones. Noticing the signs early can help prevent accidents and ensure they are getting the expert care they need as the condition progresses. With the help of AARP, our memory care team in New Jersey has identified seven early warning signs to look out for.

1. Repetition – Because dementia conditions affect short-term memory, one of the earliest signs of these conditions is regularly repeating a story or question. While forgetting or repeating things occasionally is normal, someone with dementia will tend to forget things more frequently.

2. Difficulty with daily tasks – People with dementia find it difficult to remember everyday activities or finish normal daily tasks. They are likely to struggle to track monthly bills, find it difficult to cook a meal or take much longer than usual to complete a task. This can be quite concerning, as it can lead to dangerous situations – for example, forgetting that a pan is on a hot stove and starting a fire.

3. Difficulty communicating – Another early sign of dementia is trouble with normal communication, including following a conversation or telling a story. They may trail off without realizing it, stop abruptly while talking, and be unable to resume, or have trouble remembering names, words, and places.

4. Misplacing things – It’s common for people in the early stages of dementia to lose items and misplace them. Their house keys may be in the refrigerator, their sweater in a kitchen cabinet, or their groceries in the bathroom. They may be worried someone is stealing from them and have difficulty retracing their steps or remembering where they last saw something.

5. Personality changes – People with early dementia symptoms may appear confused, frightened, anxious, or easily upset. They may withdraw from normal social activities, be resistant to activities they usually enjoy, and become depressed or moody.

6. Visio-spatial problems – In some cases, dementia can present with vision problems, especially in terms of judging the distance between objects. They may also have trouble reading, difficulty balancing, or struggle to differentiate between colors and contrast. This can be dangerous because it’s easy to misidentify medications, make financial miscalculations, get lost while walking around, or have traffic accidents in this state.

7. Difficulty with change – Predictable routines are reassuring and feel safe for dementia patients, making them much more resistant to change. An early sign of dementia can be a high level of resistance to change, whether it is a small thing (meeting at a different café to your usual one for lunch, or buying a different brand of coffee) or a large one (like moving into assisted living, rearranging home furniture, etc.)

Exceptional memory care in Sussex County, NJ

Bristol Glen is one of the leading senior living communities in Sussex County. We offer a beautiful and welcoming space for seniors who need additional care and assistance to live a full and abundant life. Our nursing team is compassionate, fully trained, and ready to assist with specialized dementia support for seniors, as well as managing strokes, diabetes, and other medical conditions.

For more information on Bristol Glen and how we are different from other senior living communities offering memory care in NJ, our services, and how we support independent style living for seniors, please contact us today or visit our website at https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org

Original blog posted on https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/bristol-glen/7-early-warning-signs-of-dementia/

How To Tell If Your Senior Parent Needs Help

Many of our senior parents live independently and have healthy and full lives. It’s normal to worry about our parents as they age, and if you suspect your parent might need some help at home, it may be time to have a conversation with them. While senior parents can be notoriously resistant to accepting that they need some help, there may come a point when it’s necessary for their safety, their health, and for the whole family’s peace of mind.

Signs a Senior Needs Help at Home

Our team at UMC has put together this guide to help you determine if your parent may need home care services. Please contact us if you have any questions or need assistance. 

Difficulty Performing Activities of Daily Living

If you notice that your parent is starting to have trouble with daily activities like cooking, getting dressed, showering, using the bathroom, and even getting around from room to room, it may be time to talk to them about home care. People often think that home care is only for people who are seriously ill or incapacitated, but many seniors have home care help for daily activities.

Changes in Physical Function and Appearance

These changes include things like wearing dirty or stained clothing, weight loss from not eating properly or frequently enough, dirty or messy hair, untrimmed nails, a noticeable odor from not showering frequently, and bruises or scratches from falling or bumping into things. Pay close attention to your parent’s physical appearance and overall hygiene when you visit with them because these are often indicators that they are struggling at home. 

Changes in Behavior and Mental Status

If your senior parent has a full social life with many hobbies and interests, be on the lookout for any changes that may indicate their mental health is struggling. Things like failing to return your phone calls and text messages, a loss of interest in their hobbies, and no longer seeing their friends regularly may be red flags. We all go through mental health challenges in our lives and your senior parent may need some help. 

Neglecting Household Responsibilities

Keeping your house running involves a lot of responsibilities: paying the bills, cooking, cleaning, laundry, and keeping up with any other household repairs and maintenance. If you visit your parent’s home and notice anything out of the ordinary, like a pile of dishes in the sink, a stack of unpaid or unopened bills, or that their prescription medications haven’t been refilled, it’s time to have a conversation with them. You’ll need to learn more about what they’re struggling with to identify the areas family and home health aides can assist with.n. 

What happens next?

While it’s never an easy conversation to have, discussing home help with your senior parent is essential for their health, safety, and overall well-being. You can expect them to be resistant to the idea at first, but start the conversation sooner rather than later, and take the time to really listen to your parent and understand their concerns. 

Home health aides can greatly enrich your parent’s quality of life, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing that they are being cared for when you’re not able to be there. Keeping a clean and orderly home, staying on top of prescription medications, and regular assistance with things like shopping and cooking can go a long way in improving one’s mental health and minimizing physical safety risks. 

If you’d like more information about caring for your senior parent, or if you have any questions about in-home companions and aides, please contact our team at UMC today. We look forward to hearing from you!

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/how-to-tell-if-your-senior-parent-needs-help/

How UMC HomeWorks Helps Adult Children Take a Vacation!

 Finding someone to take care of your parents while you are away can be a challenge. Leaving mom home may only require a simple, periodic check-in, or she may need more comprehensive daily assistance including shopping, food prep, cleaning, bathing, and taking medicine. UMC HomeWorks can help with all of those needs through our Respite Services, so you can take the vacation you need with the peace of mind you deserve.

Why your vacations matter

Vacations are not an indulgence or something to feel guilty about, especially if you are a family caregiver. They’re an important part of maintaining a healthy life, renewing connections with friends and family, relieving stress, and being able to enjoy an essential quality of life. Whether you are going on a vacation with your kids, taking a break for a friend’s birthday, or getting some essential self-care time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, vacations help renew the body, mind, and soul, ultimately helping you to become a better caregiver by avoiding burnout.

Of course, to enjoy your break to the fullest, you need to know that your loved one is in capable, compassionate hands. That way, you won’t spend your vacation worrying about mom and dad!

Qualities to look for in your home care provider

In-home caregivers are more than assistants who help with daily life. They need to be able to form a good bond with your loved one, to be able to communicate well with them and encourage them, and to become a welcomed member of the household. Good qualities to look for in a home care provider or respite caregiver include:

Training and experience – The right work experience and qualifications are critical for this caregiving role, and it’s best to ask a reputable agency that performs background checks on their staff to provide caregivers who have similar experience to what your mom or dad would need. They should be able to accommodate you whether your parent needs medication management, nursing, palliative, or therapeutic care, as well as if they just need general assistance with daily life.

Compassion – A strong sense of empathy is what every caregiver needs, helping you to better understand what a client needs, how they are feeling, and how to make them feel better. The ability to put yourself in someone else’s shoes is one of the most important qualities of a great caregiver. 

Patience – A good caregiver can exercise patience and understanding with their clients, giving them the ability to adapt when difficult situations arise and where plans don’t work out the way they should. They can take charge of a situation using a sense of responsibility towards those in their care, relying on their skills and training, and putting the needs of their client first.

Reliable – Trustworthiness is a quality that can’t be underestimated, and you should feel that you can trust your caregiver with the needs of your parents. Your parent should also feel like they can trust their respite caregiver, that they know the personal is reliable, professional, and highly ethical.

Communicative – Your caregiver should have good communication skills and clearly understand how to communicate best with their client, with you, and with any medical professionals. They should also have a clear strategy of who they need to contact under different circumstances, how to keep you informed, and what to do if there are any changes in your parent’s wellbeing.

Professional, vetted respite care services in New Jersey

The good news is that UMC HomeWorks can provide you with a candidate that meets all these requirements – and more! Our respite care services allow family caregivers to take vacations with full peace of mind, knowing that your senior loved one is in the best hands. Our services are fully scalable, assisting you for a few hours up to several weeks of care and tailored to the needs of your parent. We can assist with nursing, daily assistance, transportation, companionship, pastoral care and much more – all you need to do is ask or visit our website at:

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

This blog was originally published at https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/how-umc-homeworks-helps-adult-children-take-a-vacation/

The do’s and don’ts of visiting someone with Alzheimer’s

When someone you love is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, the diagnosis affects the entire family. The majority of people who have Alzheimer’s eventually move into a specialized assisted living facility where they have around-the-clock medical care and supervision, because as much as you’d like your loved one to remain at home, there are limits to the home care you can provide. Plus, once Alzheimer’s advances to a certain stage, your loved one will need to be cared for by trained specialists. 

Visiting someone with Alzheimer’s can be a difficult experience, especially if your loved one is in the more advanced stages of the disease. At UMC, our memory care specialists have years of experience in caring for people with Alzheimer’s, so we have put together this guide with some key do’s and don’ts to help you during your visits. If you have any questions please contact our Tapestries memory care team today. 

The do’s

Stay positive. We understand this is often easier said than done, but really focus on staying positive during your visit.  Be mindful of the language you use, your tone of voice, and your body language. If you walk in with your arms crossed and speak in a harsh tone of voice, for example, you aren’t conveying a sense of positivity and openness with your loved one. 

Maintain eye contact. Hold their gaze while you’re talking, and be patient if it takes them a little bit to reply. People with Alzheimer’s sometimes struggle to find the words they’re looking for, but keep eye contact to let them know you’re listening. 

Let them lead. Your loved one may feel like talking and engaging in certain activities, or they may want to simply sit in silence with you. Follow their lead while spending time together and don’t try to force them to do things or to speak with you. 

Share some memories. Talking about old times is a great way to trigger their memory, and to help them connect with a part of their life that they may remember. 

Be prepared for out-of-character behavior. People with Alzheimer’s often exhibit behaviors including aggressiveness, confusion, and frustration. You can imagine it’s very upsetting to not be able to remember who you are, where you are, and important details about your life. Don’t take this behavior personally, and instead try to understand where they are coming from. 

The don’ts

Don’t argue. Quibbling back and forth over information they’re wrong about isn’t helpful or productive for your loved one. Instead, it may make them feel embarrassed or angry. Rather than correcting them, simply let it go and move on. 

Don’t overstimulate your loved one. This includes bright lights, loud music, turning the TV up too loudly, and talking too loudly. People with Alzheimer’s need calm, tranquil environments where they can feel at peace. 

Don’t assume they remember your previous visits. Your loved one will likely go through various stages of clarity, but don’t reference your previous visits with the expectation that they will remember. 

Don’t say things like “Do you remember?” As mentioned above, people with Alzheimer’s often feel stressed, confused, and upset because they can’t recall core details about themselves and their lives. Asking if they remember something can be triggering for them. Instead, we recommend you explain the topic as if it’s the first time they are hearing about it. 

Memory Care at UMC

If you’d like more information about caring for or visiting someone with Alzheimer’s, or if you have any questions, please contact our team at UMC today. We look forward to hearing from you.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/visiting-someone-with-alzheimers/

How to Respond When Someone with Dementia Keeps Repeating Themselves

Dementia impacts short-term memory and directly causes repetitive behavior like repeated speech. Because this can be frustrating, it’s important to equip yourself with techniques on how to gracefully handle this situation with your senior loved one. Our Tapestries Memory Care team has put together a list of ways to respond when someone with dementia keeps repeating themselves, as well as tips on how to handle other common dementia behaviors.

Dementia behaviors and how to handle them constructively

• Know they have no control – Although our first instinct is to become annoyed when someone repeats themself, it’s important to remember that seniors with dementia have little or no control over this behavior. This can help ease our frustration and understand the behavior more patiently.

• Find the reason behind the repetition – Repeating a question can occur for several reasons – and it’s not usually because they have forgotten the answer. Usually, this behavior occurs due to stress, anxiety, fear, or discomfort. It may also be an indication of pain or illness. When repetition occurs, it’s a good idea to provide general reassurance and check that their physical needs are being met, and to run through a quick, basic wellness checklist.

• Respond to the emotion, not the words – Your loved one may be constantly asking when their husband will visit, or what happened on a particular day, but it’s better to focus on what emotions are causing their behavior rather than the words themselves. Addressing the emotions they are feeling rather than what they are literally asking about is much more likely to soothe them than an actual answer. Try a reassuring hug or hand squeeze while you respond.

• Be brief – Don’t answer your loved one the way you’d answer anyone without dementia. Instead, be as short and simple as possible, as this saves your energy and helps prevent both of you from getting frustrated. Also, don’t be afraid to lie if it will help resolve their emotional state. This may feel like a betrayal, but a gentle and considerate lie can be much more helpful and caring towards them than the truth, especially if it is a sad or traumatic truth. Nothing good can come from them reliving bad memories.

• Try a distraction – Try to break the pattern by distracting them with something helpful. For example, if they keep asking when they’ll be leaving their assisted living space to go back home, you can say that it’s soon, but it’s a good idea to have a snack and a rest before the journey. This way, they can refocus their mind on a different task and help support their health at the same time. You can also ask them a basic question to help create a distraction, like asking about the weather.

• Give yourself breathing room – It’s only human to get frustrated at your loved one and then get even more frustrated at yourself! As a caregiver, it’s important to give yourself space to step away from the situation. Do a quick calming exercise, take a few deep breaths, walk around the garden, or put on your headphones and listen to your favorite song. This will give you space to cool off and might even inspire you on new ways to assist your loved one.

Part-time and full-time dementia care in South Jersey

At UMC at The Shores, a United Methodist Communities assisted living campus, we offer exceptional memory care in beautiful Ocean City, NJ. We aim to create a safe, compassionate, and enjoyable space for seniors with dementia conditions, where quality of life is a priority. Our team is fully trained in techniques for dealing with dementia, for supporting memory health and wellness, and for helping families and loved ones navigate this illness.

To find out more about memory care in Cape May County, contact us today or visit our website at https://theshores.umcommunities.org

Original blog posted on https://theshores.umcommunities.org/the-shores/how-to-respond-when-someone-with-dementia-keeps-repeating-themselves-2/

Unconventional Workout Routines for Independent Seniors

We can’t say it enough, the key to staying independent as you age is to keep moving! Staying active and fit as a senior has so many proven benefits to both your physical and mental health. Don’t worry, you don’t need to run 5 miles every day to unlock these advantages. There are much simpler, and maybe less traditional ways for older adults to work out. If you or a loved one are looking for motivation to stay fit, our senior activity coordinators in Pitman, NJ have put together a list of unconventional workouts for older adults.

1. Dancing is a great option for seniors to get a good cardio workout. Put on your favorite music and dance your heart out! If standing too long is an issue, you can always modify it by sitting in a chair and dancing with your upper half. Get your hands above your head and if possible, tap your legs to the beat. At Pitman we call this “Chair Dancing” and it is always a well-attended activity. Remember to always modify your movement or take a break if needed. If you’re in pain that means something is wrong, so stop and ask for help.
2. Yoga is another great way to get your exercise in. There’s an endless amount of videos online to guide you through the process. Yoga is very gentle on the body and great for the mind. Yoga preaches that it is something anyone can do, so there is a modification for almost every pose. It is a slower practice, which is easier on your heart and breathing, but it still gives a great workout. Chair yoga is also an option if there is too much pressure on your legs.
3. Golf is another great exercise for seniors but you have to promise not to take the golf cart to each hole! Sure, some of them are very far apart so a golf cart ride is necessary, but take any opportunity you can get to walk.
4. We admit this next one isn’t exactly unconventional but it has many benefits and can be done almost anywhere. Walk, walk, walk. Make it a part of your daily routine to take a walk. If the weather is nice take your walk outside. Besides the walking itself, it’s beneficial to get fresh air and some Vitamin D. While you’re walking be conscious of your arms and if possible, move your arms in rhythm with your walk. This slight addition makes it a full-body exercise. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even hold light weights on your walk! Getting out of your chair and doing it is the hardest part of taking a walk but folks are universally happy they did it afterward.  You can do it!

Assisted living at UMC Pitman

Whatever exercise you choose, it’s important for your physical and mental health to keep your body moving. Make sure you get at least 30 minutes of movement a day to stay in your best shape, mentally and physically. This does not have to be all at once, you can do fifteen minutes of a movement twice a day if that’s easier for you. At UMC at Pitman, exercise opportunities are scheduled regularly so you never have to worry about getting your workout in – you just have to show up and move it! And the best part is you get to do it with all your new friends.

If you think Pitman might be the right home for you or your loved one, contact us today!

Also, check out the website for more information – https://pitman.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2022/04/11/unconventional-workout-routines-for-independent-seniors/

Nutrient Rich Foods are Important for Seniors

Nutrient rich foods will increase energy, provide more vitamins, manage weight and blood sugar, and improve overall health. If you are living at home with assistance, a good home health aide can help make sure your shopping includes these foods and assist you in preparing healthy, nutritious meals. Here are some of the benefits of nutrient-rich foods from our team of UMC HomeWorks home health aides.

Support disease prevention

While keeping blood sugar levels stable and in a healthy range is important for diabetes, it’s good advice for all of us to keep in mind as we get older. By stabilizing blood sugar, diabetics can slow or prevent vision loss, nerve damage, organ damage, and damage to the blood vessels. For those of us without diabetes, it helps to prevent risks for diabetes and kidney disease, heart disease, and vision loss. Nutrient-rich foods that help stabilize blood sugar include beans, legumes, whole wheat carbohydrates, unsweetened organic yogurt, and oats.

Increase energy levels

We’ve all experienced that dip in energy in the afternoon or felt tired after a meal. That feeling is usually because we’ve been eating processed and sugary foods that release their energy all in one go, giving us a sugar crash a few hours later. Nutrient rich foods are different because the body breaks them down slowly, releasing the sugars, vitamins, and minerals at a slow but steady pace. This helps to maintain a regular flow of energy through the day, so you don’t get overly tired or fatigued too quickly, and you’ll feel more energized as a result! Instead of sweet treats, you can try eating seasonal fruits or organic unsweetened yogurt with a little honey or granola instead.

Stabilize your mood

It’s common knowledge that when we’re feeling hungry, we’re not the best company! We can see it clearly in children as they get grumpy, easily frustrated, angry, or volatile when they need a meal, but it’s the same for adults. Seniors can more easily suffer from mood swings due to poor nutrition because the body finds it more challenging to absorb nutrients and their appetite often decreases. Eating nutrient rich foods helps to ensure your body is getting as much nutrition as possible, helping to prevent these mood swings. You can try eating several smaller meals of nutrient rich foods per day or drinking smoothies filled with seasonal fruit and vegetables to get a wider range of nutrients into your diet.

Maintain a healthy weight

As you get older, your metabolism, muscles, and bones change – and so does your diet. You might find it difficult to get enough exercise so you put on weight, or you may find your appetite is reduced, so you lose too much weight. Because nutrient rich foods pack the most in terms of useful calories and healthy nutrients, eating them gives your body the best chance of finding what it needs when it needs it – and this makes it much easier to maintain a healthy weight. If you’re snacking often, feeling unsatisfied by your meals, or relying on convenience foods, you’re probably getting sugar, salt, and not much else! Swapping this out for seasonal fruits and vegetables, complex carbohydrates, and unprocessed food will help you feel full for longer and give your body the nutrients it’s looking for.

UMC HomeWorks home health aides can make sure your parents are getting nutrient rich foods

The United Methodist Communities HomeWorks program is designed for seniors who want more assistance in daily life, while still enjoying the comfort of home and their communities. To find out how we can help you or your senior parents live a healthy independent life through in-home care, please contact us today or visit our website at

https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/home-health-aide-services/

This blog was originally published at https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/nutrient-rich-foods-are-important-for-seniors/

Unconventional Workout Routines for Independent Seniors

We can’t say it enough, the key to staying independent as you age is to keep moving! Staying active and fit as a senior has so many proven benefits to both your physical and mental health. Don’t worry, you don’t need to run 5 miles every day to unlock these advantages. There are much simpler, and maybe less traditional ways for older adults to work out. If you or a loved one are looking for motivation to stay fit, our senior activity coordinators in Pitman, NJ have put together a list of unconventional workouts for older adults.

1. Dancing is a great option for seniors to get a good cardio workout. Put on your favorite music and dance your heart out! If standing too long is an issue, you can always modify it by sitting in a chair and dancing with your upper half. Get your hands above your head and if possible, tap your legs to the beat. At Pitman we call this “Chair Dancing” and it is always a well-attended activity. Remember to always modify your movement or take a break if needed. If you’re in pain that means something is wrong, so stop and ask for help.
2. Yoga is another great way to get your exercise in. There’s an endless amount of videos online to guide you through the process. Yoga is very gentle on the body and great for the mind. Yoga preaches that it is something anyone can do, so there is a modification for almost every pose. It is a slower practice, which is easier on your heart and breathing, but it still gives a great workout. Chair yoga is also an option if there is too much pressure on your legs.
3. Golf is another great exercise for seniors but you have to promise not to take the golf cart to each hole! Sure, some of them are very far apart so a golf cart ride is necessary, but take any opportunity you can get to walk.
4. We admit this next one isn’t exactly unconventional but it has many benefits and can be done almost anywhere. Walk, walk, walk. Make it a part of your daily routine to take a walk. If the weather is nice take your walk outside. Besides the walking itself, it’s beneficial to get fresh air and some Vitamin D. While you’re walking be conscious of your arms and if possible, move your arms in rhythm with your walk. This slight addition makes it a full-body exercise. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even hold light weights on your walk! Getting out of your chair and doing it is the hardest part of taking a walk but folks are universally happy they did it afterward.  You can do it!

Assisted living at UMC Pitman

Whatever exercise you choose, it’s important for your physical and mental health to keep your body moving. Make sure you get at least 30 minutes of movement a day to stay in your best shape, mentally and physically. This does not have to be all at once, you can do fifteen minutes of a movement twice a day if that’s easier for you. At UMC at Pitman, exercise opportunities are scheduled regularly so you never have to worry about getting your workout in – you just have to show up and move it! And the best part is you get to do it with all your new friends.

If you think Pitman might be the right home for you or your loved one, contact us today!

Also, check out the website for more information – https://pitman.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2022/04/11/unconventional-workout-routines-for-independent-seniors/

Respite for Seniors: It’s Almost Spring Break!

It’s that time of year, the winter chill is fading and spring is creeping up fast! More importantly, if you have kids in school – spring break is just around the corner. If you’re wanting to get away for the week with your kids, but are worried about who will look after mom and dad – look no further. Our caregivers at UMC at Collingswood have a few thoughts about choosing a senior respite care experience during your next vacation.

Professional care you can count on

When you’re planning a vacation but you’re worried about who will care for mom or dad while you’re away, it is common to go with a professional caregiver. It will ease your mind knowing that someone who is experienced and well trained is looking after your loved one. Sometimes you can have a trained CHHA come to their home, but if their needs are more complex, a temporary stay in a senior community like UMC at Collingswood offers much more care, socialization, and security.

Family’s have peace of mind

Knowing your loved ones are safe and cared for allows you to really relax and enjoy your time away. It is crucial for your health that you take time to rest and recharge. If you’re going away with your children, it is equally important that they get that one-on-one time with you, away from your everyday life and responsibilities. This time away from home will allow you to come back energized and ready to resume your role as a caregiver.

Try out a senior community!

Let’s face it, mom or dad need their own vacation as much as you do. If they have mobility or medical issues, a stay at a senior community could actually be a great vacation experience for them!  In addition to being cared for, they can enjoy all the amenities Collingswood offers, including exercise, activities, movie nights, shared meals and dining experiences, trips to town, live entertainment, and more. We promise you that a few weeks with us will feel like a vacation!  A temporary stay at a senior community is also a great way to lay the groundwork for a conversation about a future permanent move. Your loved one will come to realize that an active senior community may be preferable to their current living situation, and your conversation with them will be much easier.

Respite care at UMC at Collingswood

If you are planning that spring break vacation and need care for mom or dad, please contact the respite care program at UMC at Collingswood. The respite care staff at Collingswood will make an individualized plan based on your loved one’s needs. Some of these needs can include housekeeping, washing and bathing, medication management, and of course, delicious meals are always provided

All of your questions and concerns will be answered and you can feel confident knowing that they are not only safe but that they are also having fun while you’re gone. Visit our website at – https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/collingswood/respite-for-seniors-its-almost-spring-break/

5 Easy Easter Crafts for Seniors to do with their Grandchildren

Crafts are a great way to stay busy and let out your creative side, and Easter is a great excuse to make some crafts with the grandchildren that can double as decor! Below we have five easy Easter decor crafts anyone can make with simple supplies. They’re perfect for spending quality time together, bonding with grandkids, and having fun.

1. Sock bunny

There’s nothing cuter than a sock bunny, and this one makes the perfect Easter Bunny for your grandkids to enjoy! All you need is a small sock (great use for those inexplicable single socks that appear in every cupboard!), felt, a large pompom for that bunny tail, moveable “googly” eyes, ribbon, and a rubber band. If you like, you can create a whole sock bunny family of different sizes and shapes, use socks in Easter pastel colors, or keep them rustic so they look just like real rabbits.

2. Salt dough Easter Eggs

Easy to make whether you are 8 or 80, salt dough decorations are non-toxic, family-friendly, and perfect for the Easter holidays. You’ll need a batch of salt dough (easily made by mixing a cup of flour with ½ a cup of salt and ½ a cup of water), a rolling pin, an egg-shaped cookie cutter, spray or acrylic paints and paintbrushes, a straw, twine or ribbon, and access to an oven. The great thing about salt dough is that it is completely non-toxic and dries to a very hard state, so when they are sealed properly your decorations will last a lifetime.

3. Easter potato stamps

Potato stamps are a fun, creative way to decorate cards, make pictures, or decorate wrapping paper. All you need is some blank cards or craft paper, some potatoes, a knife (and an adult to cut the patterns), and different color acrylic paint. Of course, this activity can get a little messy, so we suggest using acrylic paint – it washes off with soap and warm water. We’d still recommend that you cover your table or workspace and wear old clothes!

4. Easter bunny bookmark

Share your love of reading with your grandchildren with these fun, cute bookmarks! They make lovely gifts for family, neighbors, and friends too. They’re a good crafting choice for children that are a little older as scissors are involved, but they’re still plenty of fun to make. All you need is square craft paper, wiggly eye stickers, white paper, black markers, scissors, and glue.

5. Yarn Easter eggs

For this craft, you use scraps of yarn, twine, and colorful ribbon to make pretty Easter eggs. They are the perfect piece of bright and beautiful décor for the holiday. We love them placed in ‘hiding places’ around your home and garden, in a pretty vase, or on an Easter wreath. They can also be lovely surprises if you place a little gift inside them to be opened up on Easter.

Joyful, abundant independent living for seniors in Sussex County

Bristol Glen is part of the United Methodist Communities network, a collection of senior living and assisted living communities in New Jersey dedicated to supporting abundant, independent living.

We’re proud to say that our CCRC in Sussex County earned a place on the U.S. News Best Nursing Homes and Short-Stay Rehabilitation Lists, reflecting our dedication to our residents and their wellbeing!

If you want to find out more about our approach to assisted living in New Jersey, then please get in touch today or visit our website at https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/bristol-glen/5-easy-easter-crafts-for-seniors-to-do-with-their-grandchildren/