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/ 

Holidays in Long Term Care

 

For most of us, the holidays are joyous and filled with celebrations. However, for some of us the season can bring up mixed feelings. If this is your first holiday with mom or dad in long-term care, it is perfectly normal for your emotions to run a little wild. While some traditions might have to change, there is still an opportunity to make the most of it and find ways enjoy the holiday together. Our experts at UMC at Bristol Glen have put together some tips to make the most of your holiday with your senior parent:

Visit Mindfully

Now that your loved one is in long-term care, they may have adopted a new routine. For instance, they might have a midday nap every day after lunch or have a daily appointment with their physical therapist. Check with your loved ones’ main caregivers to find out if there is a best time of day to plan your visit. If your loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s or dementia, limiting the number of visitors at a time can help to not overwhelm them. If you have a lot of family members that are hoping to visit for the holiday, plan to have one or two visitors a day, over the course of a few days. Before visiting with your loved one, remind yourself of their state of mind. It is easiest for them if you let them lead the visit, avoid asking if they “remember when”, and just enjoy the time you have together.

Share Your Traditional Holiday Dinner

Just because your loved one can’t make the traditional Christmas dinner anymore, it doesn’t mean they won’t enjoy eating it. Even if they don’t remember what they used to make or eat, actually smelling and tasting the food can bring back fond holiday memories. We suggest bringing a small portion of each dish and definitely don’t skip out on the desserts – that is the best part after all! If possible, it is always welcomed and greatly appreciated if you bring a small treat for the caregivers too. A box of donuts is a great option and something you can easily pick up on the way to see mom.

Exploring Different Activities Together

Thinking of activities to do together with a loved one in long-term care can be challenging, but we have a few ideas that may help. Often a senior living community has many tailored activities planned, and you can usually attend them with your loved one. This is a great option because your family member doesn’t need to leave their community, but you can still enjoy an “outing” together. Always call ahead and confirm the activity’s time and location and that you are able to attend. Some more stationary options can include watching a movie together, playing a board game, reading aloud, writing out holiday cards, or even helping your loved one do some holiday shopping online from the comfort of their room!

Holidays at UMC at Bristol Glen

While the holiday spent in long-term care might not be what your loved one is used to, the caregivers at UMC at Bristol Glen go above and beyond to not only make the holidays special, but to make it a holiday they won’t ever forget. Holidays are filled with fun décor, themed activities like Christmas PJ day, lots of hot cocoa, and delicious holiday food! Even if your loved one is in long term care and has some mobility issues, our team will do everything in their power to ensure they are included in the holiday fun.

For more information about spending the holidays in long term care, please give us a call or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/blog/holidays-in-long-term-care/

Diets For Seniors: The Do’s And Don’ts

 

As we get older, it’s important that we adjust our diets to keep our minds and bodies healthy and able. When you were younger you may not have given much thought to the foods and drinks that you consumed, especially because younger people are able to tolerate not-so-healthy diets more easily than older adults. However, the fact remains, the foods and drinks we consume have a huge impact on our overall well-being. If you’re curious about the ideal diet for seniors, we have the top diet do’s and don’ts to help you stay mindful about food choices. 

Do: Stay Hydrated 

If you’re not in the habit of drinking at least 64 ounces of water a day, it’s time to start. Pay attention to how much water you drink on a daily basis, and if it’s fewer than eight glasses, you need to increase your water intake. 

Did you know that thirst can sometimes disguise itself as hunger? Dehydration can also have some very serious side effects, like irregular bowel movements, headaches, fatigue, muscle cramps, brain fog, feeling dizzy, and dry skin. If you struggle to remember to drink enough water every day, invest in a large water bottle and keep it by your side all day – it’ll serve as a constant reminder to stay hydrated.

Don’t: Eat Raw Meat Or Sushi

With all raw meat, including fish, there is a risk of bacteria being present. This bacteria is killed off when the meat is cooked at high temperatures, but consuming it raw in foods like sushi, steak tartare, sashimi, or carpaccio, means you’re at risk for ingesting potentially harmful bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Yersinia. 

Seniors are more vulnerable to bacterial infections and can develop secondary health conditions if exposed to bacteria regularly. Our bodies often have a harder time fighting off illnesses and infections as we age, so opt for the safe choice and only eat cooked meats, especially lean proteins like chicken. 

Do: Eat Many Greens

A balanced diet consists of two to three servings of green vegetables every day, which means  many of us are not eating nearly enough greens. Adding greens to your diet is wonderful for your health because they are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, without having a high calorie count. 

If you’re not a big vegetable eater then start small: add one serving of green vegetables to one meal a day. You might also consider adding a small side salad to your lunch or your dinner as a quick and easy way to get your greens in. If you’re residing in an independent lifestyle community, ask your chefs about adding more health-conscious choices to your meal plans – we’re sure they would be more than happy to accommodate! 

Don’t: Eat Refined Sugar

A high sugar intake puts you at risk for developing type 2 diabetes, especially if you’re indulging in refined sugars found in processed, packaged foods like baked goods, chocolate bars, cakes and pastries. Certain spreads like jams and nut butters also tend to have a lot of refined sugars, which are linked to serious health conditions like heart disease, obesity, and liver disease. 

If you’re not in the habit of checking nutrition labels when you buy your groceries, it’s time to start. Even certain breads contain a lot of refined sugar, so we recommend staying vigilant about how much sugar you’re consuming on a daily basis. Your diet should consist mainly of lean proteins, whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, and healthy carbs like sweet potato and quinoa. 

If you’d like more information about creating a sustainable and healthy diet for yourself or your senior loved one, please contact our team at UMC today or visit us at: https://umcommunities.org/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/umc-corp/blog/diets-for-seniors/

It’s Almost Thanksgiving, Let’s Talk Food!

 

It’s easy to understand why so many people enjoy the holidays. It’s a time to come together with family and friends, spend quality time with the people who are most important to you, slow down and take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Most importantly, it’s the best time to cook and indulge in your favorite foods, like turkey, mashed potatoes and sweet desserts.

At our senior communities across New Jersey, it’s safe to say that our favorite Thanksgiving dishes are already on our minds! Our culinary-trained chefs pull out all the stops for our Thanksgiving feasts. Here are some of our must-have Thanksgiving foods that we serve every year.

Thanksgiving turkey

The staple of every thanksgiving meal is a delicious golden brown turkey. Whether you bake your turkey in the oven or deep fry it, the most important thing is to get a turkey large enough to feed everyone. You’ll probably want to have some leftovers too, so keep that in mind when deciding on what size turkey to cook. When beginning your preparations, make sure you leave enough time to defrost your turkey fully. Some people start preparations the day before Thanksgiving to ensure their turkey is ready in time. 

Let’s not forget to add a little bit of spice. There’s a huge range of seasonings to choose from, and some of the most popular are lemon pepper, rosemary and balsamic and honey. Whether you like a little or a lot, be sure to season your turkey to give it more flavor. 

Stuffing and dressing

While some people use stuffing and dressing interchangeably, stuffing is actually what’s cooked inside of your turkey, while dressing is prepared on its own. No matter what you call them, they are classic Thanksgiving staples and a must-have at your dinner table! 

Recipes vary from family to family and region toregion, but dressings traditionally contain chopped nuts, diced raisins, and dried cranberries, while other varieties like cornbread dressing have herbs, chopped vegetables, cornbread, and breadcrumbs. 

Mashed potatoes and gravy

Mashed potatoes and gravy is a year-round favorite, but it’s especially popular at Thanksgiving. You may not think of mashed potatoes as a versatile dish, but you can prepare it many ways, including with garlic and chives, with cheese and bacon bits, or you can stick to the classic recipe. As for the gravy, you can never go wrong with a classic Southern turkey gravy, which is full of rich flavors and serves as the perfect topping for your mashed potatoes. 

Holiday pumpkin cookies

Last but never least, dessert! No Thanksgiving meal is complete without the perfect dessert. Sure, pumpkin pie is all the rage at Thanksgiving, but why not mix it up and try something new like holiday pumpkin cookies? One of our UMC chefs, Collingswood’s own Chef Eric, has shared his favorite recipe with us:

• 1 Cup Canned Pumpkin
• 1 Cup Sugar
• 1 Cup Shortening
• 1 Egg
• 1 Tsp Vanilla Extract

Mix the above ingredients together in a bowl until they’re well-blended.

• 2 Cups All Purpose Flour
• 1 Tsp Cinnamon
• 1 Tsp Baking Powder
• 1 Tsp Baking Soda
• 1⁄2 Tsp Salt

Sift together all remaining dry ingredients in a separate bowl, then add to the sugar/shortening mixture. Mix on low speed for two minutes, scraping the bowl well throughout. After the dough is thoroughly mixed, drop tablespoon-sized portions onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake at 350 degrees for 12-15 minutes.

• 3 Oz Cream Cheese
• 1 Tbsp Milk
• 1⁄2 Tsp Vanilla Extract
• 2 1⁄2 Cups Confectioners’ Sugar
• Dash of Salt

Combine the icing ingredients from the list above and mix well. Once cooled, top cookies with the icing and enjoy. 

If you’d like more information about what our UMC chefs will be cooking up for all of our communities this Thanksgiving, or if you have any questions about senior living in general, please contact our team today. We look forward to hearing from you, and perhaps having you join us for the holidays! 

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

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/umc-corp/blog/thanksgiving-food/

Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance

 

Chances are you have already heard of this popular saying, yet more often than not we still don’t prepare the way we should. While sometimes we can get away with just a little preparation, less is not more when it comes to preparing a home for the unpredictability of winter weather – especially, if that home is your elderly mom and dads.  Getting your senior loved ones’ home ready for winter is crucial to prevent accidents and make the winter upkeep easier for you or your senior parents. 

 

With that said, our expert home health aides have put together a few tips on how to properly prepare your senior loved ones’ home for the winter.

Get the Chimney Professionally Cleaned

If your mom or dad has a fireplace or woodstove as the main source of heat in the home, it is top priority to get the chimney professionally cleaned and to check that the damper is working properly. A clogged chimney is a big fire hazard, and a wood stove that isn’t burning efficiently can release carbon monoxide into the air. We recommend installing carbon monoxide detectors throughout the home, if they are not already, or replacing the batteries if they have already been installed. 

 

If your loved one has another type of heating source, scheduling a regular maintenance checkup is highly recommended. In some cases, having regular maintenance can put you on the top of the list if something should go wrong with your heating system during the winter. 

Arrange for Ice and Snow Removal

Ice and snow are dangerous for everyone, but especially for seniors with mobility issues. If you can’t be there yourself to clear the walkways and driveways, you can hire someone to tend to your loved ones’ home this winter. It can be as simple as hiring a neighbor or hiring a professional plowing company – whichever option you are most comfortable with. 

Equip for Emergencies

With winter comes snow, which can cause the power to go out – or at the very least, keep everyone stuck inside for a few days. Hopefully we will have a mild winter this year, but if mother nature has other plans – it is best practice to ensure mom and dad are equipped with more than the standard “eggs, milk, and bread.” Here’s a quick list to follow: 

• Stock the pantry with non-perishable food for a couple of days worth of meals. 
• Prepare an emergency kit containing first aid supplies, blankets, extra batteries, flashlights, and a weather radio. 
• Pick up extra medications before the storm (In most cases, a pharmacy will give an emergency prescription if a storm is expected).
• Set up a generator for your loved one that could power on automatically,if possible.

Plan for Winter with a UMC Home Health Aide

If you have done all the above but still feel nervous to leave your mom or dad alone during the winter season, a home health aide might be the perfect option for everyone’s peace of mind. With UMC HomeWorks, a dedicated home health aide can come to check in on your loved ones regularly. They can properly ensure mom or dad’s home is prepped by making calls for snow removal services and stocking up on groceries and other home necessities. Not to mention, HomeWorks also offers an option for a live-in home health aide, so regardless of the weather and road conditions, your loved one is never alone and always cared for. 

 

If you have any questions about hiring a UMC Homeworks home health aide for the winter season, please visit our website today at: https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/home-health-aide-services/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/homeworks/at-home-care/proper-preparation-prevents-poor-performance/

Never Too Old for A New Hobby

 

Living in a senior community like UMC at The Shores gives you back your time. You are no longer constrained by the constant upkeep of a house, lawn, or even preparing dinner each night. Your time is truly yours, and you’ve earned it. So, what do you do? We, for one, think this is a perfect opportunity for you to learn that hobby you have always wanted to do. Every hobby has beginners so there’s always a place for you to start. The plus side? Since you are already in a senior living community, you also have endless resources to take advantage of. Here’s how you can get started, from our assisted living team in Cape May County:

Picking Your New Hobby

Starting a new hobby can sometimes be intimidating, but you can start with something easy. Some hobbies take little to no skill level and are solely there to provide an enjoyable way to spend your free time. If you take up coloring or painting, for example, no previous knowledge is required. If you choose to take up knitting, on the other hand, while previous knowledge isn’t necessary, you will need to learn new techniques to knit different patterns. Either way, don’t be afraid to learn something new, as it is a great way to keep your mind sharp. Some other ideas for new hobbies can include joining a book club, learning an instrument, taking yoga classes, or dabbling in photography.

Just Start!

It’s normal for our minds to over-complicate things, but the key to learning something new is to just start doing it. It doesn’t need to be perfect – in fact, it will probably be the exact opposite! Despite your first attempts, you will find that beauty happens when you stick with it. When you commit to a new activity and really hold yourself accountable, you will be able to marvel at your progress and truly watch yourself excel. Sometimes it helps to just start small with five or ten minutes a day. If you give it a good try and your new hobby isn’t interesting to you, then switch to something new. It’s okay to quit if you aren’t enjoying it. It might take a few tries to find a hobby you really enjoy doing.

Benefits of Learning a New Skill

As we mentioned above, learning a new skill, however simple or complex it is, is a great way to strengthen your cognition and occupy your time. Continuing to learn new things gives your brain a much-needed challenge, as well as a goal to work towards for a sense of accomplishment. “Studies show that when seniors learn a new skill, such as playing an instrument, learning a new language or a new technology, it strengthens connection within the brain and it [can] keep dementia at bay. It is very beneficial to continue to challenge yourself to learn new things or to try new things.”^[1]

Embracing Your Hobbies At UMC

Not only do you have more time for your favorite pastimes when living in a senior community like UMC at the Shores, but you also have the advantage of trying the many activities available on a monthly basis. Our community life directors are constantly updating the community calendar with different classes to suit the various interests of our residents. Some crowd favorites here at The Shores are book clubs, arts and crafts, board game nights, and chair yoga. If you are new to a class, don’t be nervous! Our compassionate associates are there to lean on for moral support, and many newer residents credit group activities with turning acquaintances into fast friends. Whatever hobby you decide on, there is one thing we can assure you: at UMC there will be like-minded people there to enjoy your new hobby with you!

To learn more about fun senior activities in Cape May County NJ, please visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/theshores/

 

^[1] https://www.twinriversseniorliving.com/2018/01/23/importance-learning-something-new-elderly/#:~:text=Studies%20show%20that%20when%20seniors,or%20to%20try%20new%20things

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/theshores/blog/never-too-old-for-a-new-hobby/

Why Short-Term Rehab at Pitman?

 

Many people don’t realize that short-term rehabilitation can take place in a reputable senior living community. We’ve come to find that until you’re the one searching for short-term rehab for your elderly parent who has just suffered from a bad fall, that’s when you figure out that this is a viable option. This type of rehabilitative care is offered within hospitals, physical therapy centers, and senior living communities that can provide skilled nursing, like UMC at Pitman. Even though this care is offered elsewhere, here’s why it’s more beneficial to receive short-term rehab at our senior living community in Gloucester County.

More Cost Effective

If your mom or dad needs more time to recover from a bad fall, stroke, or surgery, short-term rehab is the best option to move forward. However, staying at a hospital may not be the most ideal option, as multiple overnight hospital stays can be very pricey. So, where should they go? UMC at Pitman has a full-time rehabilitation team specializing in physical, occupational, speech, and respiratory therapy for our residents. Fortunately, this type of care offered in a community like ours is typically paid for by Medicare. Medicare is a federal program that people pay into as they work over the years. However, financial coverage varies depending on the plan your parents have chosen to pay into. With that said, we recommend giving us a call with your loved one present to get a better understanding of their coverage.

Designed to Regain Independence

The short-term rehab program at Pitman is not a quick fix. Our core philosophy is to empower all seniors’ independence so they have the opportunity to live abundantly in our community or at home with support! As we briefly touched on before, the initial hospital stay is short and if the mom chooses to stay longer – the bills pile up. And while the hospital may deem your senior parent “well” enough to leave, they may be leaving with a new issue. For example, mom’s initial bruising may have healed after her fall, but now she needs more help regaining and strengthening her mobility. That’s where short-term rehab comes in. When your mom enters short-term rehabilitation at Pitman, our team will thoroughly evaluate her needs and develop a personalized plan to help her regain mobility where possible – thus restoring a little bit of her independence. Every little bit counts and our physical and occupational therapists will do everything in their power to help short-term rehab residents restore what once was.

More Intensive Care

Our short-term rehabilitation wing is understandably smaller than a hospital, which means we don’t sacrifice care. Seniors who choose Pitman to receive 24-hour comprehensive care and supervision, more than they would receive at a hospital. As we mentioned above, rehab begins with a warm welcome and a thorough evaluation upon arrival. In conjunction with our core philosophy, our team believes in making an immediate connection with each new resident to ensure their comfort. Each member of the rehabilitation staff welcomes feedback and any questions as this is usually a new experience for the resident. Whether it be further clarification on the treatment or extra assistance with a daily task, our team wants to ensure your senior parent is comfortable enough to ask for anything.

More Room for Fun!

After the initial consultation, our team develops customized rehabilitative care plans. These plans include establishing the types of therapy, medical treatments, and dietary requirements necessary for your loved one’s recovery. Another major aspect that is often overlooked in other rehab settings is enjoyment. Who says this experience has to be boring or depressing? With their customized care plan, our team also considers the types of activities that would be safe for your loved one to take part in while at our senior living community. As long as it’s deemed safe, short-term residents enjoy the same access that full-time residents have to monthly activities and classes on site. Some of our residents’ favorite classes include Zumba, meditation, knitting, and crafting – just to name a few.

Common reasons seniors choose short-term rehab at UMC at Pitman:

• Recovering from surgery that requires medical supervision and occupational therapy before returning home
• Restoring and strengthening mobility, often after a fall
• Recovering from a stroke or heart attack
• Diagnosed with diabetes, thyroid disease, or another condition affecting dietary and medical needs
• Partial or full speech paralysis due to Bell’s Palsy, stroke, or other conditions
• Treatment for a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) such as chronic bronchitis or emphysema, which causes difficulty breathing

To find out whether or not your loved one is eligible for our short-term rehab care in Gloucester County, or if you have questions about any of our other senior living services, please contact United Methodist Communities at Pitman today or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/pitman

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/pitman/blog/why-short-term-rehab-at-pitman/

Senior Stress Relief: 4 Ways to Combat & Relieve

 

Everyone deals with stress differently, which is okay as long as it’s a healthy way to cope. Turning to negative coping mechanisms, like alcohol consumption or poor eating habits, however, only cause more serious issues down the road. With today being National Stress Awareness Day, it is wholly appropriate to shed light on healthy ways to combat and relieve stress, especially for our beloved seniors.

#1. Meditation. Stress begins and ends with our minds. When we change the way we think, we’re inadvertently reducing our stress levels. One way to rewire our thought patterns is through meditation. Practicing meditation regularly can quiet a busy mind and help us become more present and in the moment. This can help reduce stress because when you are more focused on the present moment, there is less room to let the past affect your next move and worry about what’s going to happen in the future. At UMC at Collingswood, we have regular meditation and mindfulness classes available for all of our residents to attend on a weekly basis.

#2. Form Healthy Eating Habits. Some may not realize the impact our food has on our stress levels. When we eat too much food that lacks any real nutritional value, not only do our bodies suffer, our minds suffer as well. The mind and body need a lot of vitamins and nutrients on a daily basis to function opportunely. We recommend a low-carb diet that incorporates healthy saturated fats – this includes foods such as avocados, fish, chicken, nuts, eggs, and plenty of greens. However, the first thing that must be done to reduce stress is to cut out excess sugar! Sugar is easy energy that runs out fast and leaves us feeling almost “hungover.” Once you come down from the sugar high, that’s when stress and anxiety majorly kick in.

#3. Being Part of a Community. Everyone can go through moods and withdraw from social situations from time to time. However, it’s important that isolation doesn’t become a habit,  especially for seniors who are much more susceptible to more serious issues like anxiety and depression. Seniors who are a part of a community are much less likely to fall into social isolation as there are many staff members and other residents in close proximity to them each day. Being a part of a senior living community improves socialization through the many activities available on site – designed to bring residents together and keep them together through shared interests.

#4. Exercise. When it comes to exercise, it’s easy to forget that the mind benefits just as much as the body. Because exercise releases endorphins, those “feel-good” chemicals have a positive effect on the health of our brains. As we mentioned before, stress begins in the brain so exercising is directly linked to improving stress levels. A regular exercise routine is essential for every senior, and this could be made much easier if they reside in a senior community that has a fitness center available on site. Many senior communities like UMC have weekly exercise classes available as well like Zumba, chair yoga, and dancing.

Reduced stress for seniors in Collingswood

At UMC at Collingswood, we have trained associates, therapists, and other medical professionals available on site to help seniors reduce stress safely. Whether it’s through exercise classes, nutrient-rich meals, meditation, or another activity entirely, our team can modify health and wellness plans for each resident. We completely understand how stress can affect every senior differently, so we do everything possible to get to the root of the problem through meaningful connections and the many resources we have available on site.

For more information about our senior care services in Camden County, please give our team a call today or visit us at: https://umcommunities.org/collingswood

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/collingswood/blog/senior-stress-relief-4-ways-to-combat-relieve/

Celebrities Speak on Aging

 

While Hollywood often glamorizes youth, there are many senior celebrities who have enjoyed extremely lucrative careers. Now that they are in their 80’s and 90’s, they’re still going strong when it comes to their mentality, relationships, passions, and careers. If you’ve reached retirement age and you’re curious about what this next chapter of your life holds, perhaps you’re searching for some inspiration from older adults who are aging gracefully. 

In this article, we’re sharing wisdom and advice from some of the world’s greatest movie stars – all of whom are in their 80’s and 90’s. After decades in show business, they have acquired valuable advice about how to enjoy your golden years.

Morgan Freeman, age 85

Morgan Freeman is one of the most sought-after actors in the world, famous for movies including Driving Miss Daisy, Shawshank Redemption, Million Dollar Baby, and many more. He became a household name at age 50 after his performance in Driving Miss Daisy, and Freeman has spoken many times about how he didn’t achieve success in his career until he was in his 50’s. 

His advice for older adults who want to pursue their passion? “I don’t care what your reason is for doing it; you’re gonna have to step off the cliff.” Freeman shared that he feared growing old without ever achieving a successful acting career, but decades of dedication, patience, and perseverance paid off. Folks who are in their retirement years have the time and freedom to explore and pursue the things they love, and making the commitment to yourself is absolutely worth it. 

Dame Judi Dench, age 87

Dame Judi Dench is one of the most beloved British actresses in the world. Appearing in classics including Jane Eyre and Pride and Prejudice, along with modern classics like Shakespeare in Love and multiple James Bond films, her prestigious career spans many decades. 

Recently, at age 85, Dench became the oldest person to ever appear on the cover of Vogue magazine. In her interview, she discussed how her attitude towards aging is changing and mentioned that she has no plans to slow down or retire any time soon. Dench also shared that she is on a mission to combat agism, to increase the visibility and representation of older women in Hollywood and in the media, and to be a style role model for women traditionally excluded by the fashion industry. 

James Earl Jones, age 91

James Earl Jones is regarded as one of the greatest actors of all time, both in the US and internationally. Famous for his deep baritone voice, he appeared in iconic films like Conan the Barbarian and Coming to America, and was the voice of Mufasa from Lion King.

In an interview with the Washington Post, Jones said that getting adequate rest is essential to keep up with often-grueling filming schedules. It’s no secret that we get tired more easily as we age, and Jones says there’s no shame in listening to your body and giving it what it needs. 

Betty White, lived to age 99

Beloved performer Betty White, who passed away in December 2021 at the age of 99, was a trailblazing actress and comedian. More importantly, she was one of the first women to work both in front of and behind the camera. She became a household name when she played Rose in the hit series Golden Girls, and she was also a regular on The Mary Tyler Moore Show and Mama’s Family.

White was notorious for embracing aging and appreciating the journey, and her quick wit and her wisdom was evident in her reflections on getting older:

“So you may not be as fast on your feet, and the image in your mirror may be a little disappointing, but if you are still functioning and not in pain, gratitude should be the name of the game.”

There’s a reason that your senior years are often referred to as your “golden years.” If you’d like more information about how UMC’s senior communities can help you truly enjoy this next phase of your life, please contact our team today. To learn more, please visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/

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

Words From A Veteran

 

November 11th is Veterans Day in the US, and we are definitely observing the holiday here at UMC! We are honored to say that over the years, thousands of Veterans have made their home with UMC. That proud tradition continues today at Bristol Glen as we honor our very own, Korean War Veteran, Donald B. Guide, Air Force, Ret.

Sharing Donald’s experience in the Air Force during the Korean War helps bring to life a piece of American history, and also reminds us of the debt we owe so many generations of soldiers.

Meet Our Veteran Donald, 91 years young

    

Donald was in the Air National Guard for three years and actually lied about his age in order to enlist in 1947 – he was only sixteen at the time! Then when the Korean War started, he enlisted in the Air Force, where he served for an additional four years. During this time, he discovered a new career path, took part in some unexpected extracurricular activities, and was formally recognized for his service & capabilities during active duty.

Bootcamp and a Change of Plans

As it turns out, bootcamp was the least of Donad’s concerns. It’s what came after Bootcamp that really challenged his character and skill set. According to Donald, “Bootcamp was not too difficult. The Air Force was expanding due to the active war, so they opened a new base in New York. At times it did challenge me, but it was okay. It was in the Finger Lakes area, so even in May it was cold. Everyone was getting sick. I got sick and ended up in the hospital for a few days and missed a few things. After boot camp, it was off to electronic school in Mississippi. It took six months to complete. I qualified for pilot training but was informed that instead, I was going to Special Weapons Training. Nuclear training was in New Mexico and when the course was finished, I was assigned to the Roswell Base in New Mexico, the 509^th Bomb Wing. It was famous because they were the unit that dropped the bomb on Japan. When I got there, only a few of the original guys were still there. Very quickly, I became head of the electronic section. Others were shipped overseas. It scared me because I was not sure if I knew enough.”

An Award, A TV Appearance, and Some Volleyball

When asked about his most memorable experience while serving, Donald nonchalantly mentioned his television appearance about an award he received for “Outstanding Airmen.” This experience proved to be more difficult than expected because he was not allowed to divulge any details about his duty. Donald said, “In Roswell, there was no television at that time, so the Air Force built a station and broadcasted a series. I won an award, “Outstanding Airmen” and had to go on the show, however, we were directed not to answer questions regarding our duty. So, on the show, I said that the reason I received the “Outstanding Airmen” award was that ‘I kept my nose clean.’”

Donald also mentioned an interesting sport he took part in during active duty. “I was stationed in Roswell for three years during what they called the “Cold War” period. We sat around in a barbed wire-enclosed base for three years waiting for the world to be destroyed. We dug fox holes, and we rotated shifts in them waiting for the Russians to attack. There was not much to do, so many of us played volleyball to keep busy and in shape.” As Donald was relaying this, he became flushed, chuckled, and said “If I tell you anymore, we might both get arrested.”

The Letter Struggle

When asked about how he would stay in touch with his family and friends, Donald spoke about his struggle on keeping up with letters. Because of the nature of his duties it was very difficult for him to come up with news he would actually be permitted to share. “We would be allowed to write letters but no great detail of our duties. One time my mother could not contact me because I was not a great letter writer or phone-home type of guy, so my mother contacted the general and asked him to give me orders to call home. ”

Serving Shaped Donald’s Life in More Ways Than One

Before serving in the Air Force, Donald had plans to work in the corporate business world.  During his Special Weapons Training in Roswell, however,  he realized his passion for physics and science. “Serving really shaped my life. When I joined, I was attending Seton Hall for Business. However, after the Air Force, I was interested in Physics and Science. I went to Newark Technical School, what is now called NJIT on the GI Bill. I was able to obtain a great education. I went on to work for Honeywell and then eventually took over my family’s oil business.”

Over the years, Donald also found ways to translate his experience serving into spending time with the people he cares about most. He said, “I share my love of science and volleyball with my family. After I retired, I coached volleyball for the YMCA, Fairleigh Dickinson, and Saint Peter’s Prep. I won an award for coaching which remains incredibly special to me to this day.”

His time in the Air Force has also opened doors for him, in terms of once in a lifetime experiences. Because of his involvement with the American Legion, Donald was able to experience the “Honor Flight” – a special, all-expenses paid trip to Washington D.C. for U.S. veterans to see the memorials of the respective wars they fought in. “I was in the American Legion for a while. I am not much of a joiner, and I was surprised that I even got into it, however, being part of this led me to the “Honor Flight.”  It was amazing, they flew us down to Washington D.C. There were about 80 veterans, most from Vietnam. It was such an honor to be included…I am proud of my daughter who served as Assistant Deputy for the Secretary of the Interior and my son in law who was the Executive Director of GreenPeace. They were able to experience this with me. On the way home, they gave us letters from family and others – My granddaughter, daughter, and cousins wrote me. It was thoughts on paper that you would normally not say or will not say. It was just great!”

Thank You Veterans For Your Service

A Happy Veterans Day from all of us at UMC, and thank you to all the U.S. veterans who have served. We are eternally grateful for your courage, valor, and sacrifice. We would also like to specifically thank Donald for his service and for sharing his incredible story with us, it is an honor to have you as part of the family here at Bristol Glen.

 

For more information about the veterans at UMC at Bristol Glen, or if you have any questions about senior living in Sussex County, please visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/blog/words-from-a-veteran/

Why Consider Volunteering At A Senior Living Community

 

Have you thought about volunteering at a senior living community? Many senior living communities across the country welcome support and assistance from people just like you. Volunteers can be responsible for a variety of things at the community, including organizing and running group activities, teaching educational classes, and providing one-on-one company to residents. 

If you’re wondering how you can volunteer, think about something you really enjoy doing and how you can share that experience with someone else. For example, if you’re passionate about cooking, you could share your passion with residents by volunteering to teach cooking classes at your local senior living community. Volunteering is not only beneficial for the residents, it’s also tremendously rewarding for the volunteers. Here are some indisputable reasons why you should consider volunteering at a senior community near you: 

It’s Great For Your Mental Health 

You’ve probably heard people say that giving back to their community has been a hugely positive experience for them. Perhaps you’ve volunteered at other places in the past, so you’re already aware of how great it makes you feel. Engaging in new experiences and keeping your brain active is very beneficial for your mental health. This is because when people are able to share their interests and passions with others, it releases endorphins in the brain that makes them feel happier. 

We all have hobbies and interests that we are passionate about. If you love sewing, perhaps you can volunteer to teach a sewing workshop at a senior living community. Sharing something you love with others is a win-win for all parties!

You Can Gain Some Knowledge

While volunteers are often the ones teaching classes or directing activities, that doesn’t mean they can’t learn something as well. A by-product, if you will, about volunteering is socializing and getting to know the residents on a deeper level. Seniors have a wealth of life experience that younger people can tap into. Having a one-on-one conversation with a resident at a senior living community can teach you some very valuable life lessons. 

Many older adults have lived through world-changing events. Perhaps they’ve served their country in the military, or maybe they’ve traveled around the world and can share their exciting experiences with you.

You Can Make The Residents Happy

Unfortunately, not all residents in senior living communities have family and friends who are able to visit them. Loneliness can be a serious problem among seniors, and volunteers can make a world of difference to their state of mind. You can accompany seniors who don’t regularly receive visitors on a walk during a beautiful day, you can watch old movies together, you can do arts and crafts together, or you can participate in some of their regularly-scheduled activities. Interacting with other people on a regular basis improves mental and physical health for everyone involved.

You Can Add It As Job Experience

Did you know that you can add volunteering to your resume? For young people who are looking to bolster their resumes ahead of applying for college or in preparation for applying to a first job after graduation, volunteering is an excellent way to show philanthropy and community service. 

As a volunteer, you’ll be responsible for many things on a daily basis, including scheduling and coordinating social activities, communicating with residents and staff, and planning special events. These skills are very valuable both in your personal life and in your career, and employers look favorably upon people who make time to volunteer and give back to their communities. 

If you would like to learn more about how rewarding it is to volunteer at a senior living community, please contact our team at UMC today. We look forward to having you volunteer with us! https://umcommunities.org/

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