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/

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/

2022 Guide of Senior Scams to be Aware of

 

Did you know that in 2020, the FBI^[1] found that seniors lost almost $1 billion to scams, with 105,000 people over the age of 65 falling victims to crooks? As seniors continue to be targeted by scammers, associates from our independent lifestyle community in Cape May County have taken the time to compile some helpful tips to keep your loved ones safe. But before we dive into their advice, it helps to understand the three most common types of scams to look out for first.

Senior Scam #1: Identity theft. This generally takes 3 forms: pharming (legitimate-looking websites run by scammers that require someone to fill in personal information), phishing (legitimate-looking emails that trick someone into sending personal information), and smishing (text message versions of phishing).

Senior Scam #2: Tech support fraud. Although more seniors are using computers, smartphones, and digital platforms than ever before, there are still seniors who aren’t very tech-savvy. Fake websites and fraudulent contacts can trigger malware downloads or even fake virus and application alerts, often with a message with a contact number to resolve the issue. A scammer on the other end of the line then asks for remote access to their computer to ‘fix’ the problem. In the process, what they really do is steal sensitive data, request payment for their “service,” and then obtain personal credit card information.

Senior Scam #3: Online shopping fraud. Here, a scammer will contact a person to sell them fraudulent, fake, or non-existent products or scare the person by saying they haven’t paid for something and send them an invoice of demand. This has become especially prevalent as eCommerce has taken off more amongst seniors.

Tips to protect seniors from online scams

Luckily, there are some easy ways to help keep your mom or dad safe, or at least lower their risks of falling victim to a scam.

• First, tell them to never, ever share personal information with anyone over the phone, online, or via email. If they think it is legitimate, they should confirm it with you first. Scammers often make their demands time-sensitive and demanding, but they must never be afraid to wait before they act!
• Then, set up safeguards on their digital devices. This can include up-to-date antivirus software, VPNs, anti-malware software, pop-up/ad blockers, and 2-factor authentication. You can also ask their permission to be added to their bank account notifications and move larger savings to secure accounts separate from their credit card account.
• Teach them what to look for in scam messages. This can include how to hover over an email address to see how it’s spelled (usually there are misspellings or odd addresses, like a Gmail account using a bank’s name). They can also look for misspellings in messages, and learn not to open attachments or links in unusual or chain emails.
• If they are unsure about an email or text message’s legitimacy, ask them to always contact the company directly – not via phone numbers or links on the suspicious message. The company can always let your loved one know if there is really an issue, special offer, or legitimate request.

Comfortable, secure senior living at UMC at The Shores

UMC at The Shores is a secure community offering independent lifestyles with support in South Jersey. Our team is passionate about helping seniors live full and rewarding lives in a safe and welcoming environment. Our associates are all well-versed in the latest technology and can teach your senior loved one valuable tips so that they don’t fall victim to online scams. They are only a call away, should your loved one have any questions about a suspicious call, text, or email they received.

To find out more about senior living at The Shores in Cape May County, give us a call or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/theshores/

^[1] https://www.ic3.gov/Media/PDF/AnnualReport/2020_IC3ElderFraudReport.pdf

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/theshores/blog/2022-guide-of-senior-scams-to-be-aware-of/

Tapestries Memory Care: What Makes UMC at The Shores Different

 

If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia, you may be looking into professional memory care that supports these conditions. One option is Tapestries Memory Care at UMC The Shores. This program focuses on understanding the complexity of each individual and empowering people rather than just treating their symptoms. The five principles guiding Tapestries Memory Care are to provide comfort, to know and understand the person in care, to anticipate their needs, to treat the person rather than the condition, and to empower our memory care specialists to provide the highest standard of care. Here’s more of what makes our service stand out from the crowd:

Care that focuses on the individual

Individual people are far more complex and unique than their health condition, and every person in our care is treated and assisted based on their needs. For example, rather than forcing a routine, we allow people to sleep when they are tired, offer activities when they are alert, find meals they enjoy, and set meal times based on when they like to eat, all while managing their symptoms accordingly. No one falls into a general “one-size-fits all” category – instead, care is tailored to what they require and prefer, so your loved one can self-direct their care. We understand that every senior values their independence, and would like to help them retain it – in whatever way possible.

Abundant, certified staff-to-person ratio

The Tapestries Memory Care team includes LETS (Life Enrichment Team Specialists) that are available to Tapestries residents 24-hours a day, 7 days a week. Each specialist has been specifically trained to care for people with neurocognitive disorders and related dementias, with extensive and ongoing training. We ensure a high staff-to-person ratio, making sure that each person has access to a Life Enrichment Team Specialist whenever they require.

Customized environment

The Tapestries Memory Care neighborhood is designed to be home-like, comfortable, and suitable for people with dementia conditions. It’s customized beyond what most memory care services offer, with common open spaces to congregate, large activity areas for arts and crafts, and one-bedroom, dementia-safe apartments for each resident. By combining personalized individual spaces with secure residential common areas and gardens, people can find an easy balance between private time and socializing. This homey atmosphere also ensures that people in care have certified care providers on hand at all times, with the director’s office and consultation rooms included in the space. This creates a wonderful environment where care and medical needs are met while giving residents the feeling of being in a welcoming ‘normal’ home.

Family support

Let’s not forget the effect dementia has on an entire family. As part of our holistic approach to care, we do all we can to support families as the health needs of their loved ones progress. We understand how mentally, physically, and emotionally challenging this process is for everyone involved, and work to provide you with spiritual support and mindset counseling.

Tapestries Memory Care at The Shores isn’t your average memory care program. With a core philosophy, team, and environment that creates exceptional, person-driven care for people with dementia and their loved ones, we work to set the standard for what care should be.

To find out more about our specialized Alzheimer’s and dementia support, please contact us today or visit our website at:  https://umcommunities.org/theshores/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/theshores/blog/tapestries-memory-care-what-makes-umc-at-the-shores-different/

The Best Vitamins for Seniors

 

The body changes as we age – there’s no getting around it! Here are the most important vitamins and supplements that seniors might need, from our assisted living community in South Jersey. As always, be sure to check with your doctor first before you start taking anything new!

Why do Seniors Often Need Vitamins and Supplements?

Ideally, we’d get all of our necessary vitamins and nutrients from plenty of fresh food in a balanced, nutritious diet, but that’s not always achievable for seniors. In fact, the most common reasons why seniors may need supplements to stay healthy include:

• Reduced exposure to sunlight, leading to a lack of vitamin D
• Bones becoming more brittle with age
• Appetite loss due to medication, illness, or aging
• Medications flushing out vitamins and minerals before they can be absorbed fully
• Medical conditions suppressing the body’s immune system or ability to absorb vitamins
• Not cooking or eating a balanced diet as they age
• Bodies becoming less efficient at absorbing vitamins due to age

What vitamins do seniors typically need?

Again, always check with your doctor before taking supplements – this will make sure they don’t interfere with medical conditions or medications, and that they are the right ones your loved one needs in the right concentration. With that said, the following supplements are usually at the top of the list:

• B Vitamins – B12, B6, and B9 vitamins are very important for nerve and blood cell health, as well as supporting brain health. Good sources other than supplements are dairy products, eggs, fish, and leafy greens such as spinach, kale, broccoli, and beans.
• Calcium – This helps keep bones strong and teeth healthy, and is especially important for older seniors and seniors with bone density conditions. It’s also found in dairy products, dark leafy greens, and calcium-fortified cereals.
• Vitamin D – Another great supplement for bone health is vitamin D, which also helps reduce risks of diabetes, heart disease, and inflammation. You can also find it in fortified cereals, dairy products, and fatty fish like tuna and salmon. To activate this vitamin, it’s important to expose your skin to gentle morning or afternoon sunlight for an hour or so each day.
• Magnesium – This mineral is important for nerve and muscle health, as well as supporting the immune system. Magnesium also supports muscle recovery during physical therapy and fosters a healthy heart rhythm. There’s lots of magnesium in whole grains, dark leafy greens, avocados, lentils, and nuts.
• Potassium – This is a very important supplement because we don’t produce it naturally in our bodies. It supports nerve function, energy levels, brain function, and healthy heart rhythms, and without it we can feel constipated, fatigued, have muscle spasms, and can experience heart palpitations. Good foods with potassium include bananas, avocados, beets, butternut, acorn squash, and apricots.

At UMC at The Shores, a part of the United Methodist Communities network, we offer a welcoming community for seniors of all levels of independence – and we also have a dedicated memory care program for elderly residents with Alzheimer’s or dementia conditions.

We aim to create a warm, active community where seniors get the support that they need to live an abundant life, from well-appointed apartment-style homes and attractive grounds to a vibrant social calendar. We also have a wonderful community dining space preparing healthy, delicious meals! Contact us today to chat more about assisted living in Cape May County, or visit our website at

https://umcommunities.org/theshores/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/theshores/blog/the-best-vitamins-for-seniors/

Fall is the Time to Make Your Move

 

Moving your loved one into assisted living can be an emotional and complex process. Choosing the right day or even the right time of year to make the move isn’t easy! If you have the flexibility to choose your date, then fall is the perfect time of year to make the transition. Here’s why, from our beautiful assisted living community in South Jersey.

Why Fall is the Perfect Time of Year to Move into Assisted Living

#1 – Comfortable Weather

The heat of summer is gone, and the weather is comfortably cool, which is perfect for seniors and anyone who is helping them move. Many seniors find it challenging to tolerate heat and humidity, which can cause headaches, dizziness, swelling around the joints, and even confusion – especially if your loved one has a dementia condition. Fall weather is also easier on anyone doing the heavy lifting, making it much more tolerable to get hard work done without the risk of dehydration or heatstroke.

#2 – Transition Season

Fall is a season of change when the rush and energy of spring and summer make way for a gentler, softer atmosphere. It’s naturally the time of year when we prepare for changes ahead, creating the mindset needed for a big move such as this one. And because it’s cool but still an outdoor season, it’s easier for your loved one to get involved in the community’s activities, whether they are social occasions, hobby clubs, or simply sharing a meal with neighbors.

#3 – Avoiding the Rush

Families tend to wait until the end of the year to make the move into assisted living for a number of reasons. From wanting to use the holidays or annual leave as a moving day, wanting their loved one to stay with them through the holidays, or simply thinking it’s best for their loved one to start living in a new place in the new year, there’s usually a rush on assisted living community accommodation through November and December. This is especially common in assisted living communities that offer temporary senior accommodation, where families book their loved one a respite stay while they travel. Moving in during fall means you get to avoid that rush and have a wider range of assisted living choices – although we always recommend that the earlier you look, the better!

#4 – The Holidays are Just Around the Corner

Moving into assisted living in the fall gives your loved one time to adjust to their new community, as well as something to look forward to! Whether you’ll be spending time with them over the holiday season or you’re relying on the community’s fun-filled festive event calendar, there’s just enough time to settle in properly while still having plenty of things to look forward to and build those important social and companionship connections.

At UMC at The Shores, a United Methodist Communities assisted living facility in Cape May County, we take a holistic approach to caregiving that supports a full and independent life in a professional yet compassionate and fun community. We care deeply about each person in our care, balancing the need for strict protocols with our focus on active, healthy aging.

We cater to seniors with a wide range of needs, from those who are quite independent and want a close, companionable, and safe community life to seniors with dementia conditions who need additional care and attention.

For more information on our assisted living community in South Jersey, please contact us today or visit our website at  https://umcommunities.org/theshores/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/theshores/blog/fall-is-the-time-to-make-your-move/

National Senior Citizens Day

 

You’re darn tootin’ seniors get their own day! This month on the 21st is National Senior Citizens Day and if you’re 70+, you surely deserve some special recognition. Older adults are irreplaceable to both their families and society because we have so much to learn from them. Their years of experience translate to seasoned wisdom that we can all stop and really take in. At UMC at The Shores, a leading senior living community in South Jersey, we celebrate our residents every day, not just on this special day. If you’re looking for some ways to celebrate, here are a few activities our assisted living team in Cape May County put together to try to make this day extra special for everyone.

#1 – Lunch on the boardwalk

Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful weather with a walk along the boardwalk and a delicious lunch! Many restaurants also offer senior citizen discounts and specials to take advantage of, and there’s so many options to choose from! Whether you like a tangy BBQ, authentic pasta, a classic burger, and shake, or fresh seafood, you’ll be sure to find a spot with great food and an even better view.

#2 – Birding by boat

Our coast is blessed with a bounty of salt marsh wildlife and birds, and the best way to see them is by boat. Take a guided tour and get to know the secretive birdlife and marine life of this ecosystem. Your experienced captain and naturalist on board will be able to teach you all about them.

#3 – Sunset safari

If you’re more of a night owl, then a sunset boat safari is probably more up your alley! You may have seen your bird and marine life by day, but at night it’s a different story. Cruise through the salt marsh behind Cape May and Wildwood as the sun sets, and let experienced naturalists help you spot fascinating wildlife in their natural habitat.

#4 – Whale and dolphin watching

Board the Cape May Whale Watcher with your family and friends for a 3-hour tour of Delaware Bay and the estuary. Get your binoculars and camera ready to spot porpoises, dolphins, manta rays, humpback whales, bald eagles, gannets, and more! It’s a guided tour where you’ll also learn a bit about the seafaring history of the area and the native marine life.

#5 – Lighthouse tour

Not just romantic icons of the past, lighthouses have played an essential role in seafaring safety and history for hundreds of years. New Jersey’s lighthouses are famous for their part in protecting ships and ports through wars and peacetime as they sailed the treacherous Delaware Bay. Now you can see them from the ocean through an interesting historic tour. The best part: lunch and snacks are included too!

#6 – Golf and mini golf

Get out on the green and enjoy a day of golf in the mild weather while it lasts! Whether you’re an avid golfer or simply enjoy putting with the grandkids, Ocean City has the course for you. The Ocean City Golf Course is a 12-hole, 37-par course designed by Leo Frazier and is family-friendly. If this course isn’t your speed, there are several other mini-golf courses you can choose from if you prefer more light-hearted fun.

Celebrate life at our assisted living community in Cape May County

The Shores is an assisted living community in South Jersey that makes a difference! Not only are we located just a stone’s throw away from the golf course, marina, boardwalk shops, and beautiful beaches, but we also have a very different approach to senior living. Our aim is to support seniors to live abundant, full life. That means independent senior living, a lively social and events calendar, and plenty of amenities to use and explore in Cape May County.

You can find out more about our assisted living community and how we celebrate Senior Citizen’s Day every day by calling us or visiting our website at: https://umcommunities.org/theshores

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/theshores/blog/national-senior-citizens-day/

Retire at the Beach!

 

Okay, so maybe we’re biased – but honestly who wouldn’t want to be living out their best years in a beautiful senior community only a few blocks from the ocean?! There’s something relaxing and calming about the water, and that’s true all year around. Not to mention, the many activities you can take part in by the boardwalk and ocean. If you’re originally from Jersey you know there is always something going on “down the shore.”

With that being said, here’s a bit of info about where UMC at The Shores is located, our beautiful natural surroundings, and just a few of the many beaches, boardwalk, and water-related activities our team at The Shores organizes for our senior living residents.

Seaside location

UMC at The Shores is an assisted living community offering specialized memory care, along with many additional senior care services, in southern New Jersey. We’re fortunate enough to be in a prime location opposite the Ocean City Golf Course, overlooking the residential marinas and out to the ocean towards Shooting Island. Ocean City is well-known as “America’s Greatest Family Resort”, but it has wonderful amenities for all ages!

• Beaches – The star of the show is of course, our 8 miles of pristine beaches. Whether you want to walk along the beach or simply sit and enjoy the sound of the waves, it’s a wonderful privilege to have right on your doorstep.

• Boardwalk – With over 2 miles of well-maintained boardwalk, there’s no excuse not to get your daily exercise! Explore the quaint shops, rest with a morning coffee at one of the many cafes, catch up with the locals, or enjoy a quick meal overlooking the ocean.

• Corson’s Inlet State Park – With a wheelchair-accessible entrance, anyone can enjoy the wild and natural beauty of New Jersey at this well-maintained state park. It makes for a wonderful outing for seniors and families where you can watch migratory birds and wildlife species, sunbathe, enjoy fishing (with a license!), and even go boating if you’re feeling adventurous!

• Shopping – From interesting little shops on the boardwalk and in Downtown Ocean City to Stainton’s mall, you can shop to your heart’s content! Lovely for browsing as well as buying, you’ll find everything you need for your home, gifts, everyday life, and treats within easy distance from our senior living community.

• Museums and galleries – From local art galleries to the Ocean City Arts Centre, there’s plenty of ways to indulge in your creative side. The OCAC also offers community art programs that are open to all ages, as well as hosting regular visual and performing arts events. For the inner historian, learn about the fascinating heritage of the area in the Ocean City Historical Museum, explore the Ripley’s Believe It or Not exhibit on the boardwalk, the Historia Gardner’s Basin, the African American Heritage Museum, or the Edicott Reardon Family Museum.

Ocean City offers so much for all ages to enjoy, making it the perfect retirement location and a stimulating, enjoyable environment for seniors and their families to explore.

Stimulating for body and mind – Memory care in Cape May County

The Shores offers an ideal retirement home and community in South Jersey, and our programs include specialized services for seniors with dementia and Alzheimer’s conditions. Our memory care team is dedicated to ensuring all residents have access to onsite and offsite activities and events that are safe, appropriate, and fun, including regular outings, social gatherings, and much more. We work to help support seniors with cognitive health issues to stay active and engaged – and our wonderful position near the ocean helps us do just that!

For more information on our memory care services in South Jersey, or to find out more about how our assisted living community works, contact us today or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/theshores/

This blog was originally published https://umcommunities.org/theshores/blog/retire-at-the-beach/

Summer Fun, Had Me a Blast!

Sandy, Danny, and the rest of the gang had it right – but summer fun isn’t just for teenagers! With summer in full swing, it’s the perfect time of year for seniors to unwind, relax, and make memories with each other and their loved ones. Here are some ideas for summer fun for the seniors in your life provided by our assisted living team in South Jersey.

#1 – Sunday Sundaes

Who doesn’t love a cold, sweet treat on a hot summer Sunday? Set up a sundae bar at home or in your assisted living community with a range of ice cream flavors, toppings, and sauces. You can also add a float station for classic soda floats! Whether you love a classic vanilla sundae with a cherry on top of chocolate ice cream covered in hot fudge, there will be something everyone will love.

#2 – Backyard baseball or softball

This can be as simple as making the time for grandpa and the grandkids to play catch on a lazy afternoon or organizing a community event at a park where local seniors can come and watch. It’s a great idea for local clubs who want to create a social event where kids can join in, less mobile seniors can watch and cheer on loved ones, and where everyone can have some classic summer fun. Remember to have lots of refreshments and shade for your supporters.

#3 – Stargazing

Cool summer evenings are best enjoyed outside under the stars. Set up chairs on your patio or even in the park and watch the stars come out. You can also arrange to have a cookout or make s’mores and tell spooky stories, especially if the kids are involved! Another fun idea is to have a local astronomy club set up telescopes so you can see the stars and planets up close while you learn a little about our beautiful galaxy.

#4 – A bake-off

For aspiring young bakers to experienced home cooks and fans of The Great British Baking Show, everyone will love a competitive but fun bake-off! Invite local baking clubs and host it at your assisted living community (and make sure residents can participate). Have team events for kids and grandparents, competitions for best pies and cakes, and fun trophies to hand out to the winners.

#5 – Music in the gardens

At your local park or even assisted living community, you can set up chairs in the gardens and entertain seniors and their families with a little music festival. Invite singers, bands, and music clubs to perform and hand out picnic baskets for everyone to enjoy an afternoon of music outdoors. Remember to have plenty of shade and keep everyone hydrated, especially on hot days.

A warm, sunny, 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://umcommunities.org/theshores/

Original blog posted on https://umcommunities.org/theshores/blog/summer-fun-had-me-a-blast/

What You Don’t Know About Memory Care

Memory care is more than upgraded assisted living. It’s tailored to the needs of patients with dementia conditions and involves the most innovative training and techniques for cognitive support and stimulation. While dementia is not curable, many researchers feel that the right support and therapies can help slow progress and improve the overall quality of life. If your loved one has been diagnosed with dementia and you are looking into professional memory care at a senior living community, here are some facts you should know provided by our Tapestries Memory Care team in South Jersey.

1. It’s a holistic approach. Memory care isn’t just about stimulating the mind and helping to slow dementia conditions; it’s about treating someone’s care needs as a whole. This is especially important because people with dementia often have trouble expressing themselves or managing other health problems. It’s very important for everyone involved in providing care to be observant, understanding, and just be on the same page overall. Seniors with dementia need to have an involved care team that includes medical professionals, therapists, and family members, and advanced memory care provided at a senior community brings all these aspects together.
2. It addresses different abilities. Every senior in memory care is unique in terms of their condition, personality, and their abilities. The service tailors activities and routines around each person rather than treating dementia patients as a one-dimensional group. After all, some people in memory care are in the earliest stages of cognitive decline and are still quite active and independent, while other people may be in the late stages of the disease and juggle other complex health conditions and limited mobility. Matching activities and routines to individuals is part of what makes this such a special service and creates the most abundant atmosphere for all.
3. Minimal medications and positive behavior management. It’s very common that seniors with dementia conditions to experience behavioral challenges. They can become destructive or aggressive, lash out because they are feeling fearful or confused, or resist the care that they require. In many instances, this is treated with medication, but in UMC’s Tapestries memory care neighborhoods, the approach is different. Because there is a team of trained specialists who are highly experienced in dementia conditions, there’s an emphasis on non-pharmaceutical interventions to redirect negative behavior, calm a patient, and distract them towards something more positive. From the warm and welcoming environment to therapies and direct intervention, Tapestries Memory Care professionals are equipped to manage disruptive behaviors without turning to medications unless it is strictly necessary.
4. Freedom and family involvement. While memory care environments are designed with safety, security, and supervision in mind, it’s also a space that creates as much freedom, independence, and normality as possible. At UMC at The Shores, there are natural spaces to explore, cozy rooms to relax in, individual and group activities, caregivers who provide companionship, and events where family and friends are actively involved. From recreational spaces and dining spaces where families can visit and spend time together, we recognize that bonds of love are essential to the well-being of every memory care resident.

Welcoming, enriching memory care in South Jersey

At UMC at The Shores, we offer exceptional memory care in Cape May County. We aim to create a safe, compassionate, and enjoyable space for seniors with dementia conditions, where the quality of life is a priority. Our team is fully trained in techniques for dealing with dementia, for supporting cognitive function, and for helping families and loved ones through this illness.

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

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/theshores/blog/what-you-dont-know-about-memory-care/

Five Tips for Transitioning to Assisted Living

For many seniors, the thought of moving to a new home in an assisted living community is an intimidating one. Resistance to the idea is very common as it’s a big adjustment, filled with worries and anxiety – which is perfectly natural! Even when the decision is in their very best interests, it can stir up a lot of “what if” scenarios. What if this isn’t the right choice for me? What if I don’t receive the right care? What if I don’t meet any new friends?

If you’re unsure about how to calm your parents’ worries about community life, here are some tips on how to manage the process of moving to assisted living.

#1 – Find the right senior community

Research is everything when you’re looking for an assisted living community that’s the right fit for your parent. It’s important to look online and visit in person while considering the following aspects:

• If the community is a good fit for your parent’s interests and personality
• If the location is ideal in terms of proximity to your loved one’s family and friends
• If the community can cater to their present and future care needs
• The cleanliness and maintenance of the buildings and gardens
• The professionalism, friendliness, and helpfulness of the staff
• The cost of services and the community’s pricing model

#2 – Try it out in person

First, visit the assisted living community of your choice on your own or with a friend or family member. Evaluate it from your loved one’s eyes, as well as your own to see how well they are suited to the community. Consider what they would like most about it, and how the care services and amenities would benefit them. Then, if it’s possible, tour it with your parents after talking to them about it. Make it a calm and relaxing visit where they can ask questions, see the living arrangements for themselves, have a meal, and talk with other residents.

If it’s suitable, you may be able to introduce them to the community on a trial basis by utilizing their onsite respite care services. Through respite, they will live in the community as if they are full-time residents, getting appropriate care services, participating in events, and trying out the amenities for themselves.

#3 – Give your parents a sense of control

The process of moving into assisted living can make your parents feel as if they are giving up their independence and control over their lives, so it’s important to encourage them to participate in the selection and moving process as much as possible. For example, they can choose how their apartment is decorated, and what personal items will be kept or sold, and you can take them shopping to choose new items for the space.

It’s also important to read through the services beforehand and have them weigh in on optional services (for example, more independent seniors may still want to cook their own food rather than eat all of their meals in the restaurant). Write up a calendar of when housekeeping services occur, introduce them to the associates who will care for them, and let them choose activities and events to sign up for.

Also, keep reassuring them about the positive aspects of the move, that you will be there to help them settle in, and that you and other loved ones will visit frequently.

#4 – Pack carefully and methodically

Set priorities for what should be packed and try to stagger the moving process. If possible, have a moving service assist you and have your parents stay at a loved one’s house while you get everything ready. After repainting or making any changes to the new apartment, move in any appropriate heavy furniture first, followed by important items like toiletries, medication, clothing, linen, and small appliances. Then, add decorative touches that make it feel like home, including photographs, artwork, and sentimental antiques.

While you are packing, plan to cancel services to the house (utilities, telephone, internet, and cable) and add their new address for bank accounts, credit cards, subscriptions, and other mail. Remember to keep records of all moving expenses, as they’re tax-deductible.

#5 – Celebrate this new stage of life together

Moving to a great assisted living community like The Shores is nothing to be sad about! Like any move, you should celebrate this new stage of life with your parents. Organize a fun family movie night at their apartment, bring everyone along to participate in community events, and explore the amenities together. This is a big move for your parents, but it’s one that delivers great quality of life and care, so take it slow and help them settle in however you can. One great idea is to have friends and family to drop in on a regular basis, which will give your parents a lot to look forward to and make them feel secure in this decision.

Visit UMC at The Shores and see how wonderful assisted living can be!

The Shores is a beautiful community offering assisted living in South Jersey. Our team is passionate about helping seniors live full and rewarding lives in a safe and welcoming environment. With a great calendar of events and social activities, some of the best dining in town, and spacious apartment-style living, we’re the best place to be for senior living.

To find out more about assisted living at The Shores, give us a call or visit our website at https://umcommunities.org/theshores/

Original blog posted on https://umcommunities.org/theshores/blog/five-tips-for-transitioning-to-assisted-living/

How Does Respite Care Work?

Respite care is a valuable service for every family caregiver, helping to prevent burnout and provide professional support for mom or dad when you need a break. This care service works by supplying your loved one with a professional, qualified caregiver or nurse on an as-needed basis, to alleviate a good amount of your caregiving responsibilities. Respite can be provided regularly, a few times a week, or circumstantially. For example, if you are planning a much-needed summer vacation and want to ensure mom and dad are in the right hands while you are away, respite would be an excellent option for you.

If this sounds like a viable option for you and your loved one, here are some of the most important benefits of respite care services to consider when you are caring for your mom and dad.

#1 – Respite provides supplementary skills

It can be very challenging, if not impossible, to manage complex health needs when you aren’t a trained nurse. A skilled respite nurse can supplement your skills and support you when your loved one’s care needs are beyond your medical expertise. For example, if your parent has just come out of the hospital, your respite caregiver can come in to manage tasks like bathing and wound care, rehabilitation, or nursing care.

#2 – Respite provides essential caregiver support

Many caregivers simply don’t have the support they need to properly care for a senior parent and end up trying to do it all themselves, like Superman or Wonder Woman. This is very difficult for anyone to handle and can quickly lead to the dreaded “caregiver burnout.” Respite caregivers are there to provide that extra support, so you don’t have to do it all, all the time. They can take over when you need a break, give you advice on how to manage your parent’s chronic impairment or illness, and take a load off your shoulders.

#3 – Respite improves social engagement

Caregivers often find themselves in situations where they become isolated from friends and family, especially when their loved one needs constant care. This isolation, as well as the demanding work of caregiving, can lead to mental and emotional breakdowns, anxiety, and even depression. Respite care is self-care for family caregivers, giving you the freedom to see friends and family, participate in your community, and take vacations. This social engagement isn’t selfish, it’s crucial to your wellbeing and the quality of care you’re able to provide.

#4 – Respite supports your sense of identity

Family caregivers often see themselves defined by that role, pushing aside all other aspects of their identity. However, it’s very important to your mental and physical wellbeing that you can strike a balance between all your roles – parent, friend, coworker – and not just be defined by being a caregiver. This is very difficult to do if you are the sole caregiver, but that’s where respite care comes in. It allows you to step out of that caregiver role and dedicate time and energy to other aspects of your life and who you are.

#5 – Respite supports healthy relationships

As a caregiver, you spend a lot of time with your parents – and that can create stress, friction, and frustration on both sides. It also means that so much time is spent on taking care of their basic needs that you don’t spend and enjoy much quality time together. This can put a lot of strain on this important relationship. Having a respite caregiver pop in and take over some of the day-to-day care work gives both parties a breather from one another. It also relieves friction by giving your parent someone else to interact with and creates more space where you can have fun together.

#6 – Respite is a stepping stone into community life

Caregiving is as much about considering the future as it is dealing with present challenges. If your parent has been hesitant about going into assisted living but their health is declining, then respite care is a good way to ease them into this environment. At The Shores, respite care residents live alongside permanent residents in the community and get to see exactly what it’s like to be here. They can try out the meals and apartments, get to know residents, participate in community events, and enjoy the beautiful nearby shore towns. This is one of the best ways to get over the fear of what assisted living might be like – showing them the reality of a welcoming community like The Shores!

Respite care services in New Jersey from UMC at The Shores

If you are looking for professionals to help you care for your loved one, either on a temporary or permanent basis, please don’t hesitate to visit our website or call our team. The initial consultation is no obligation, of course, and you’ll quickly see how we can fit into your caregiving team to provide your loved ones with the support, care, and fulfilling life they deserve. You can find out more about respite care at The Shores at: https://umcommunities.org/theshores/

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/theshores/the-shores/how-does-respite-care-work/

5 Ways to Celebrate Memorial Day in Assisted Living

Memorial Day is so much more than a holiday – it’s a time to remember those who have died while serving our country and celebrate what we stand for. Here are some great ideas for celebrating Memorial Day in assisted living with your loved ones, from our assisted living team in South Jersey.

#1 – A moment of silence

At 3 pm local time, it’s traditional that everyone across the USA has a moment of remembrance for those who died in the line of duty. Anyone can join in, and you can have a local musician follow the moment of silence with the traditional Taps bugle call.

#2 – An informal gathering

After the moment of silence, it’s time to share stories, reminisce, and enjoy each other’s company! A casual gathering for residents, staff, and volunteers can be a wonderful way to connect with other veterans in the assisted living community and spend time with friends and family. Tea and coffee with cake and light snacks are the perfect accompaniment to this gathering.

#3 – Stream a Memorial Day parade

Many residents in assisted living won’t be able to attend parades in person, so it’s a great idea to set up a screening space in the restaurant or communal room and live-stream parades from around the country. Usually, there’s a great national broadcast program too, and this can be played on TVs or computers in communal living areas.

#4 – Crafting, games, and themed activities

Leading up to Memorial Day, seniors can get involved in making décor and crafts for the holiday, including remembrance poppies, yellow ribbons, and bunting. As part of the day’s events, you can include a range of activities that are social and easy for all abilities, including games of dominoes and chess, cornhole, beanbag toss, and even croquet. Make sure there are plenty of baked treats and foods to enjoy through the event, like cherry or apple pie, hot dogs, watermelon, and other American classics!

#5 – Invite speakers and veterans from your local community

A good speaker can be a wonderful attraction for seniors in assisted living, so chat with your community to find veterans who would like to do a public speaking event for your assisted living family. You can also have local, younger veterans come and visit your seniors to spend time together and participate in your Memorial Day event. This is a great way to show appreciation to veterans and their families who are in assisted living and your larger community and shows what Memorial Day is really all about.

Join our vibrant, welcoming assisted living community in Cape May County

UMC at The Shores is a beautiful community offering assisted living in South Jersey. Our team is passionate about helping seniors live full and rewarding lives in a safe and welcoming environment. With a great calendar of events and social activities, some of the best dining in town, and spacious apartment-style living, we’re the best place to be for senior living. To find out more about assisted living in Cape May County, give us a call or visit our website at https://theshores.umcommunities.org

Original content posted on https://theshores.umcommunities.org/the-shores/5-ways-to-celebrate-memorial-day-in-assisted-living/

Stimulating Activities for Seniors with Memory Loss

Our brains are a lot like our muscles, in that if we don’t keep using them, they will lose their capacity and abilities. While memory loss can still result from trauma, illnesses like dementia, and advancing age, there’s a lot we can do to help stimulate and exercise the brain to reduce these risks or even slow down memory loss. Here’s some insight into why stimulation works, and some fun activities that give brains a boost to share with seniors in your life.

How do stimulating activities help the brain?

Think of stimulating activities such as learning a new skill, playing strategic games, or learning a new language as a way of exercising your brain. Each time you do something new and challenging, your brain gets stronger because it must work hard, engaging different areas of gray matter.

Learning and practicing something new is both a physical and mental challenge, and that means your body builds new neural networks making the brain stronger and healthier. It actively builds the brain much like we build muscle, so we need to keep doing mentally stimulating activities if we want to keep our brain strong and healthy.

This is the same principle that occupational and physiotherapists use to help people recover their mental abilities and motor skills after an illness, operation, or trauma. By stimulating the brain, people can create new nerve connections that bypass damaged areas of the brain and recover skills that have been lost to them. In the same way, we can help keep cognitive functions like memory strong as we age by keeping our brains actively learning through mentally and physically stimulating activities.

Activities that help combat memory loss

1. Listening to music – Enjoyment of music and musical ability are one of the most persistent cognitive features, and it can also be a great way to stimulate a loved one to talk about days gone by. Make a playlist of their favorite music, get them talking about what they love about it or even singing along. You can even try introducing a musical instrument if they know how to play. Learning a new dance is also a great way to make listening to music a mental and physical activity.
2. Creating a memory bag – Familiar and favorite objects are a source of memory, comfort, and interest, and taking these out of a bag one at a time can create a wonderful experience with your loved one. Add their favorite perfume or scent, different textures, and items from their childhood to trigger memories and share stories together.
3. Creating a family album – A family photo album is another useful source of memories and remembrance that is ideal for seniors with memory loss. Have photos from their past as well as current photos of loved ones, their home, and much more. Write each person’s name next to the photographs and decorate it together as a family craft project.
4. Working on puzzles or coloring in an adult coloring book – Puzzles stimulate the problem-solving areas of the brain, encouraging spatial reasoning skills and logic, but remember to keep these appropriate to your loved one’s level of cognition. Coloring books have a more meditative effect, helping to calm and soothe the mind while promoting focus and creative thinking.
5. Giving support so they can do activities they once loved, like gardening, reading, or knitting – Memory loss impacts short term memory first and leaves older memories intact for much longer, so it’s a good idea to try activities they enjoyed years ago. You’ll probably have to adapt them for their current ability, but there are some great resources available to make this happen. This includes books for people with dementia conditions, and classes at assisted living communities that include many different crafts and hobbies.

Professional, compassionate memory care in Cape May County

In an experienced memory care program like The Shores’ Tapestries neighborhood, we offer special services specifically designed to support cognitive function and health for seniors. As part of United Methodist Communities’ expert team, trained memory care experts use best practice techniques and activities to stimulate brain function and help slow dementia and age-related cognitive loss. While there is no cure for these conditions, we aim to slow their progression down as much as possible. To find out more about our memory care 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/stimulating-activities-for-seniors-with-memory-loss/

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/