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/

Communicative Tech for Seniors: Best Apps

As we’ve discovered during quarantine, being socially distant doesn’t have to mean being socially disconnected. If there is one good thing to come out of COVID-19, it’s this: seniors are now more tech-savvy than ever! There are many different communicative technologies available today that can be downloaded to our smartphones in a matter of seconds. With that in mind, our assisted living team serving West Deptford is going to talk about some great senior communication apps along with their best features. Note: all of the apps mentioned below can be downloaded through the App Store on an iPhone or Ipad. 

Caribu 

This communicative app is particularly useful because it helps seniors to connect with their young grandchildren not only through audio and video but also through fun activities. This free app, available for both smartphones and tablets, offers a wide selection of children’s books and other fun, interactive games that seniors can play with their beloved little ones. 

Zoom

Arguably, the most popular communicative tech on the market today is Zoom. This video calling software rose to popularity during the pandemic as a way to connect with loved ones, friends, and coworkers when face-to-face interaction wasn’t an option. Even though quarantine is over and vaccines are now easily accessible, Zoom is still a relevant communication tool for seniors. It is especially useful for seniors to connect with family members who do not live close by. Some of Zoom’s best features are: 

• Free download (for calls 40 minutes or less)
• Supports video calls for two or more people 
• Can easily enable camera on or off along with muting the microphone
• Can change the background behind you to spice things up! 

Online Walkie Talkie Pro

Remember walkie-talkies? Well, now they’re back in a whole new way! The smartphone app, Online Walkie Talkie Pro, acts like a real walkie-talkie with high-quality voice and video capabilities. Users set to the same public channels can all talk to one another by holding down the PTT button. For example, seniors can ask their friends to set their app to channel 2, and then they will all be able to join a group chat that utilizes all the real sound effects of a walkie-talkie! 

Facebook Messenger

Facebook’s Messenger app is also free and available on all smart devices. Messenger allows seniors to send messages, pictures, and videos with anyone they’d like – as long as all users have an active Facebook account. This app also has the capability to set up video calls with a small group of people. 

Senior technology assistance at UMC at Pitman

At United Methodist Communities at Pitman, associates are available to help residents with communicative apps on their smart devices. Our associates have the patience, compassion, and knowledge to connect seniors to these new ways of technology in order to promote the most connected and fulfilling lifestyle.

For more information about technology usage at UMC at Pitman in Gloucester County, please contact us today or visit our website at: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2021/08/23/communicative-tech-for-seniors-best-apps/

Let’s Get Social! 5 Reasons Seniors Should Socialize More

Many seniors’ version of retirement definitely includes some peace and quiet. However, this doesn’t mean your social calendar should be. Being social benefits us more than we think. Maintaining strong relationships throughout your life is good for your emotional, mental and physical health, and can even result in a longer life span. Within this article, our assisted living associates in Gloucester County will go over the five major reasons why seniors should disrupt their daily routines to socialize more often.

5 Benefits of Senior Socialization

1. Natural stress reducer. Seniors’ stress levels are likely to be lower when they have strong friendships that keep them social. Think about it, when you have someone to confide in, someone who hears your worries and fears and then offers comfort, your stress suddenly doesn’t seem so overwhelming. Lower stress results in better cardiovascular health, a stronger immune system, and healthy sleep habits.
2. Better cognitive function. Playing interactive games with family and friends is a great way to stay social and keep the mind sharp. Activities like card or board games that challenge the brain can keep cognitive function and memory recognition strong, which are especially important as we age.
3. More opportunities for physical fitness. Working out is not always easy for seniors. Motivation comes and goes, which can make it difficult to maintain their physical health. One of the best ways to stick to an exercise routine is to have a good friend to workout with and be your accountability partner. Sharing the experience with a friend makes physical fitness feel less like work and more like fun.
4. Improves current mental health state. Feeling lonely is a common issue among older adults, but maintaining social bonds can help minimize this problem. Seniors do not feel lonely if they are often surrounded by family and friends. Staying social also reduces their risk of this loneliness escalating into something more serious like depression or anxiety. Planning a fun social outing or calling to check in with friends are just two ways that seniors can help boost their mental health.
5. Extended life span. This benefit may seem far-fetched at first, but there is research backed by the National Institute of Aging to prove that being social prolongs functional decline in health. Loneliness and social isolation are two of the major factors that impact the immune system of seniors. Older adults who maintain strong social ties, good nutrition and physical fitness generally live longer than those who do not upkeep these healthy senior living habits.

Socializing at UMC at Pitman

UMC at Pitman, our assisted living community near West Deptford NJ, provides many opportunities for seniors to have fun and socialize, while remaining safe. Our associates are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide assistance with daily tasks, including dressing, cooking and medication management. They could also recommend the best spots to meet new friends and activities on campus to take part in!

For more information on our assisted living services and events in Pitman, NJ, please give us a call or visit our website at: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2021/08/09/lets-get-social-5-reasons-seniors-should-socialize-more/

Deciding on The Best Care for Your Senior Parents

Parents Day is on July 25th! It’s a reminder that it’s not only important to take care and appreciate them today, but every day. A big part of caring for an aging parent includes deciding on the best care option for them if they are starting to have trouble living alone. As your parents grow older, it’s essential to find them care that caters to their specific needs…and it’s even more essential to keep them involved in the decision-making process. Two of the most popular options for seniors that need more support in their daily lives are independent living and assisted living. Here’s a quick guide to each of these options to help you make an informed choice from our senior care team serving West Deptford.

Is Independent Living Right for Your Senior Parent?

Independent-style living is all about keeping seniors healthy, active and safe. Ask your senior parent these questions to find out if this is the senior care option that best suits them:

• Are you finding maintaining your home is becoming too much work?
• Is your home too big for you and are you looking to downsize?
• Are you looking for a community in which you can be active and make friends?
• Are you worried your current home has become unsuitable for you (e.g. It has a lot of stairs or tripping hazards)?
• Do you want more time to pursue your interests and hobbies?
• Do you want access to trained home health services if needed, but do not require medical attention?

If they have answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, then your senior parent is likely to be a good match for an independent living community. These communities are designed for healthy seniors who are looking to maintain their independence, remove the stress of owning and maintaining a house, and have the freedom to enjoy their hobbies and social lives.

Is Assisted Living Right for Your Senior Parent?

Assisted living also focuses on maintaining independence and quality of life, but is generally more suited to seniors who require a bit more support. Ask mom or dad these questions and find out if this is the best senior care option for them:

• Is maintaining your home becoming stressful and expensive?
• Has your home become unsuitable to your needs (e.g. It has a lot of stairs) or is it too big?
• Do you have a medical condition that requires support?
• Do you require assistance with transport, bathing, dressing, meal preparation or medication administration?
• Do you want more time to pursue your interests and social activities?

If mom or dad has answered ‘yes’ to this set of questions, then they are likely to be a good match for an assisted living community. With a higher level of care, both medically and with daily tasks and errands, this is an ideal community for seniors who need daily support to maintain a high quality of life and independence.

Senior care services in Gloucester County, NJ

At United Methodist Communities at Pitman, our aim is to ensure that each of our residents maintain their dignity, quality of life and independence. Our assisted living community encourages residents to get involved at a level they are comfortable with. We tailor our assisted living services to make sure each resident gets the help and support they require to live a full, happy and independent life as they age.

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

Original blog posted on https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2021/07/26/deciding-on-the-best-care-for-your-senior-parents/

How Seniors Can Stay Safe From The Sun

Balance is the key to almost everything, right? Sunlight is a great source of Vitamin D for seniors, but too much sunlight can quickly become harmful. The need for sun protection is especially important for seniors who often have very fragile skin. Some seniors take medications that have increased sun sensitivity as an unavoidable side effect. Since July is UV Safety Month, our assisted living caregivers at Pitman have put together a list of sun safety tips for our senior loved ones.

Essential Sun Safety Tips for Seniors

Tip #1: Sunscreen, sunscreen, and more sunscreen. Even if mom or dad only goes outside to water their garden or go for a short walk, encourage them to wear sunscreen and reapply often! The risk of developing or dying from skin cancer rises each year. When using sunscreen or applying it to a senior loved one, make sure it is at least SPF 30 and offers broad-spectrum protection. This ensures the sunscreen will absorb 97% of the sun’s rays, including UVA and UVB. It also helps to switch between different modes of sunscreen. Try using a spray sunscreen for a base coat and then a lotion to get those hard to reach spots. 

Tip #2: Avoid the sun during peak UV hours. Mom or dad’s new best friend: the shade. The sun’s UV rays are usually strongest between 10am to 4pm. This means it’s best to limit their sun exposure during those times or make sure they stay in the shade. However, it’s important to keep in mind that trees, umbrellas and canopies do not offer complete sun protection. Wearing sunscreen is always a must, even if they are out of direct sunlight.

Tip #3: Utilize long sleeves, sunglasses and long-brimmed hats when possible. Along with sunscreen, wearing certain items of clothing will provide extra coverage from the sun. Long-brimmed hats offer good sun protection for the ears, face and neck. Sunglasses that provide 99-100% UVA and UVB protection will greatly reduce eye damage from the sun. Last but not least, long sleeves and long pants will protect the arms and legs from additional sun exposure.

Staying cool at UMC at Pitman

UMC at Pitman, our assisted living community near West Deptford, provides many opportunities for seniors to have fun in the sun, while remaining safe from its harmful UV rays. Our associates are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide assistance with daily tasks, including applying and reapplying sunscreen. They could also recommend the best spots on campus to hang in the shade!

For more information on our assisted living services in Pitman, NJ, please visit our website at: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2021/07/12/how-seniors-can-stay-safe-from-the-sun/

5 Fun Outdoor Workouts for Seniors

 

The air is getting warmer and the sun is shining! Which means it’s time for everyone, especially seniors, to get outside, get a good workout in and have some fun in the process. You may be wondering, why should seniors especially get outside to workout? Well, for one, seniors who stay active preserve their mobility for longer, have less dementia-related sleep problems and are just happier in general! Seniors who choose to exercise outside gain another benefit: healthy and direct exposure to Vitamin D. So, what’s the hold up? It’s time to engage in a fun, outdoor workout. Not sure where to start? Our assisted living team in Gloucester County has put together a list of their favorite exercise programs for seniors.

Safety note: Please apply sunscreen generously when spending extended periods of time outdoors. Also, please consult with your primary care physician or professional fitness trainer before performing any new strenuous exercises that might do more harm than good.

#1 – Walk outdoors. Perhaps the easiest option on this list is to take a daily walk outside. Did you know that a short 30-minute walk can burn up to 300 calories? That’s reason enough to set time aside everyday for a walk. Not to mention, it’s a great opportunity to have a friend tag along to catch up. If no one is around, grab a pair of headphones and listen to your favorite playlist on repeat. Or if you really want to switch it up, choose a new location to take your walk each day like a local park or a lively cul-de sac nearby.

#2 – Play a game outside with the grandkids. Nothing says “fun” like spending quality time with grandkids – and of course, games! Playing a quick game of catch will work out muscles you’ve forgotten about and stimulate hand-eye coordination. Now that’s a game nobody could lose.

#3 – Outdoor chair yoga. Bring a light, but stable chair outside and say “namaste” to a new, fun way to do yoga. If you or a loved one reside in an assisted living community, make sure to inquire about moving fitness classes like chair yoga outside when the weather is fine. Or if you’d rather do yoga alone, visit our blog to learn some new yoga poses to try out. 

#4 – Gardening outside. Carrying the hose and moving around the garden to water each plant is a workout in itself. An added bonus: choosing to grow fresh fruits and vegetables will help you to eat healthier too! If your thumb is not quite “green,” visit our blog that outlines beginner gardening tips for seniors.

#5 – Bring your workout weights outside. Working out inside in the same room or home gym could get a little stale after a while. So, here’s a better solution: take your weights outside to do some strength training. It’s amazing what a change of scenery could do to improve your enjoyment while getting fit!

Exercising safely at UMC in Pitman, NJ

At United Methodist Communities at Pitman, we offer every assisted living resident opportunities to exercise safely. With industry-leading COVID-19 protocols in effect, there’s no reason why we can’t hold fun fitness classes with our senior residents!

Some of our favorite fitness classes include dance, traditional yoga and chair yoga. We understand that everyone has different exercise goals and that they need to find what routine works best for them. That’s why we make an active effort to offer multiple programs and support each resident’s fitness level to the fullest at our assisted living community.

For more information about senior exercise classes in Pitman, New Jersey, please contact UMC at Pitman today or visit our website at: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2021/05/17/5-fun-outdoor-workouts-for-seniors/

Gardening: Your New Favorite Pastime

 

It’s Garden Month – which means it’s the perfect time to take up this rewarding pastime. You may be wondering, why should you start this new hobby? For one, it’s gratifying to be able to see your progress with each plant. It’s almost like reaching a new level in your favorite video game.

Another major reason to garden is to promote a healthier lifestyle. You can grow delicious fruits, vegetables and herbs – all in the comfort of your own home! Seniors in particular can benefit from gardening because it reduces stress and the chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease. It can also be a great source for Vitamin D, as you’ll   get outside in the sun more frequently.

If you’re ready to take up gardening, but you’re not sure where to start – look no further! The assisted living team at UMC at Pitman has put together beginner gardening tips, which you can find below.

Beginner gardening tips for seniors

1. Choose the right spot. “Location, location, location.” While the saying is known primarily in the real estate industry, it applies to gardening as well. It’s important to choose a location for your garden that is easy to access, has lots of natural sunlight and is close to a water source. If you are in assisted living, we recommend starting small with an easy-to-manage container garden in your apartment.
2. Select plants that will thrive. This tip requires a little extra research that is well worth the time and effort. Choosing plants that match the growing conditions is essential to having a successful first garden. Luckily, many plants can be grown in smaller containers and pots, such as vegetables, berries, herbs, and flowers. Also, think about what plants may be the most useful to you. For instance, if you love to cook or add extra seasonings to your meal, look into growing herbs like basil or mint. These herbs can easily be grown indoors as long as they have ample sunlight and water.
3. Apply tender, loving care (TLC). One of the best ways to care for your plants is to give them quality soil. Invest in soil that is nutrient rich and well drained for the best results. It’s equally important to keep up with watering your plants — that’s why we recommend keeping your garden somewhere that’s easy to access. If you’re not sure whether or not your garden needs watering, push your knuckle down into the soil to check if it’s dry. If the soil is dry — it’s time for water.

Activities and more at UMC in Pitman, NJ

At UMC at Pitman, we always encourage our assisted living residents to branch out and explore new hobbies. With proper health and safety guidelines in effect, there’s no reason why our residents can’t socialize and have fun with other residents!

Since the pandemic hit, we’ve held group activities such as meditation, fitness classes, movie nights and even virtual tours of zoos, museums and art galleries. Whatever your pastime, our goal is for every resident to feel completely supported and confident to live their life to the fullest at our assisted living community.

For more information about senior activities in Pitman, New Jersey, please contact United Methodist Communities today or visit our website at: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2021/04/06/gardening-your-new-favorite-pastime/

Tips to Make Spring Cleaning Easier for Seniors

 

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

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

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

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

Consider a new senior living option in Gloucester County, NJ

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

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

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

How to Best Manage Your Loved One’s Health

 

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

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

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

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

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

Assisted living care services in Pitman, NJ

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

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

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

How to Make New Friends After Retirement

 

While you settle into your new assisted living community, you may find it a bit lonely at first. It’s nothing to be embarrassed about as many older adults have felt this way at one time or another. It can be difficult to leave a local group of lifelong friends and make new friendships, especially in your senior years. Here are some valuable tips to make fast friends from our assisted living team in Pitman NJ. 

Join a club or group activity 

Joining a club or engaging in group activities are the best ways to meet people with like-minded interests. Here at Pitman, we have many clubs available for our residents to join, such as the Garden Club. Our associates are available 24/7 to encourage and provide assistance to residents who would like to actively take part in community life. Not to mention, playing a cognitive game with a new friend like a puzzle can not only sharpen your social skills, but also sharpen short-term memory and problem-solving skills. 

Be more tech-savvy

Technology is the way of the world now. It’s been especially helpful during the pandemic when face-to-face meetings aren’t always the safest option. Many assisted living communities, including UMC, have tackled the challenge of creating an abundant social life for seniors during COVID-19. It hasn’t always been easy, but technology like Zoom and Facetime has really helped our residents stay connected to family, friends, and other residents. We’ve also used this technology to host group activities safely, such as our monthly virtual trivia competitions. 

Ask assisted living associates for help 

If you’re still not sure how or where to start, ask assisted living associates for help! As mentioned above, the associates are available around the clock to help with not only medical needs, but personal needs as well. Making new friends definitely qualifies as a personal need, as well as an essential one! At UMC at Pitman, we believe in enriching all aspects of our residents’ lives – including their social lives. This is why we strive to provide many diverse activities to suit the interests of all residents. 

Community life in Gloucester County, NJ

Making the transition to assisted living can be an adjustment, but when you retire in a great town like Pitman NJ, our residents find that making new friends comes easily with all the fun activities available onsite. Our assisted living residents also have access to all the activity the surrounding community offers, through onsite transportation options. 

If you’d like to see if we’re the right assisted living option in Gloucester County, New Jersey, or would like more information about our active community life, please contact us today.

Original content posted on https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2021/02/22/how-to-make-new-friends-after-retirement/

Heart Disease: Risk Factors, Symptoms and Prevention Tips

 

There’s no better time than American Heart Month to prioritize our heart health. By adopting healthy lifestyle habits early on, you can prevent heart disease and potentially live longer with a much stronger heart. Our long term care team in Pitman NJ has put together a list of heart disease risk factors, symptoms and invaluable prevention tips to be aware of.  

Heart disease risk factors

Fortunately, most of the risk factors listed below can be managed with smart lifestyle choices. For example, smoking and alcohol consumption can be controlled or eliminated entirely. As for the heart disease risk factors that are uncontrollable, like family history and ethnicity, you are at least able to monitor how it will affect you or a family member specifically.

A family history of coronary artery disease (CAD) may require a higher level of monitoring under the following circumstances: 1. If a prior family member with CAD is a male under 55-years-old. 2. If a prior family member with CAD is a female under 65-years-old.

Other risk factors include:

• High blood pressure or cholesterol
• High levels of stress and anxiety 
• Smoking
• Alcohol and substance abuse
• Excessive caffeine use 
• Physical inactivity 
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Ethnicity 
• Age
• Gender 
• Family history 

Symptoms of heart disease 

There is a large variety of symptoms to look out for when it comes to heart disease. This makes sense when you think about it because there are many different variations of heart disease, such as arrhythmia, atherosclerosis, cardiomyopathy, and CAD. If you or a loved one experiences any of the symptoms below repeatedly or severely, we recommend consulting a primary physician to diagnose your condition appropriately. 

It’s also important to realize that symptoms in women differ greatly from symptoms in men. Heart disease symptoms for women such as nausea, vomiting and anxiety are often overlooked or confused with other conditions. With that said, it’s important for women to see their primary physician immediately if experiencing any severe symptoms listed below.  

• Chest pain, pressure or congestion

• Fluttering or racing heartbeat

• Dizziness

• Lightheadedness

• Coldness or numbness in the limbs

• Shortness of breath  

• Fever, chills or cold sweats  

• Fainting or passing out

• Nausea or vomiting

• Indigestion or gas-like pain in the chest and stomach

• Sometimes jaw, neck or back pain

Heart disease prevention tips 

• Choose to live a healthier lifestyle. As we mentioned earlier, many of the risk factors for heart disease can be easily controlled. Regular exercise combined with a healthy diet can make all the difference. Eliminate smoking entirely (if applicable) and foods in your diet that are high in saturated fat content like bacon or sausage. 

• Maintain healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Having healthy blood pressure and cholesterol numbers are one of the first steps you can take for a healthy heart. Higher levels indicate that your heart is working too hard to pump blood. Your ideal levels may not be someone else’s ideal levels. It’s important to remember that they depend on your unique risk factors and heart history. 

• Manage stress more effectively. Chronic stress is a serious and often overlooked risk factor for heart disease. If you are constantly overwhelmed or anxious, we recommend speaking to professionals about different stress management methods. 

Long-term care in Pitman, NJ 

Here at United Methodist Communities, we are well equipped with a team of licensed nurses, therapists and specialists to manage many complex medical conditions in our senior residents, such as heart disease. We offer the kind of supportive and compassionate long-term care services that can put your mind and the minds of your family members at ease.

Please call one of our care advisors in Gloucester County to find out how we can meet the needs of your loved one, as well as yourself. To learn more about our long-term care across New Jersey,  please contact United Methodist Communities today.

Original content posted on https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2021/02/13/heart-disease-risk-factors-symptoms-and-prevention-tips/

Senior Outreach Opportunities in Pitman, NJ

 

If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s to stay up to date with the latest technology. Our smartphones, tablets and computers have been a godsend during COVID-19 – giving many people a way to connect with loved ones when they can’t physically be with one another. 

This is especially true for older adults who have to be extra careful, as they are in a higher risk group for contracting COVID-19. However, we cannot dismiss how hard it’s been for older people to avoid seeing family members and friends. Now more than ever, older adults need opportunities to connect with others, as well as the community around them. 

The Senior Outreach Committee in Pitman, NJ has been on top of this, and is constantly providing new activities for seniors to take part in safely during this time. With that said, here is a list of senior resources provided by the outreach committee. 

Online games

One of the greatest ways to connect with family and friends – games! And when it’s not possible to be face-to-face, gaming online is the next best option. This online resource provided by AARP will allow older adults to play the games they enjoy alone or with friends. Mahjong, chess, pool – you name it, they have it. 

Virtual tours of museums, parks and aquariums 

In light of adapting to changing conditions, it’s normal for everyone to have the itch to travel. With travel restrictions still in play, virtual tours are great ways to experience new places. Do they want to see a Hawaii volcano up close? Or would they rather see a live feed of endangered aquatic animals? What about a trip to the Musee d’Orsay in Paris? With these resources, seniors can see it all from the comfort and safety of their own homes.  

Workout videos 

Sitting home and doing the same thing everyday is not good, especially for older adults. It’s important to stay active as we age, in order to minimize health issues and maintain a positive mindset. Regular exercise releases endorphins that make us feel happy, and also help keep us motivated and productive throughout the day. Even though gyms may be open, it’s not the best place for seniors during COVID-19. With that said, this online resource provides workout videos appropriate for seniors who are just looking for extra motivation to stay active while at home. 

Helping seniors connect at our community in Gloucester County

While having access to your local senior outreach committee is great, having resources available directly in your home is even better. Here at UMC, we firmly believe with procedures in place like UNITEDforSAFETY, there’s no reason why seniors living in an assisted living community can’t socialize and have some fun too!

With our health and safety protocols in place since the pandemic hit, we have been able to have socially distant group activities like yoga, meditation and movie nights. Our residents have also been able to participate in “theme days,” such as Root Beer Float Day and National Gorgeous Grandma Day (just to name a few). 

To learn more about events and senior resources at our assisted living community in Gloucester County, New Jersey, please contact United Methodist Communities today. 

Originally posted: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2020/12/28/senior-outreach-opportunities-in-pitman-nj/

Alzheimer’s Awareness Month: Symptoms, Treatment and Memory Care Programs

Alzheimer’s Awareness Month is in November and it’s important to shed a light on the best practices in memory care. Effective memory care can significantly improve the quality of life for people with dementia or Alzheimer’s.

Because each person with dementia will experience symptoms differently, it’s essential to adjust the level of care appropriately. Here is United Methodist Communities’ guidance, recommendations and options for dealing with dementia. 

Early detection of dementia 

Early detection is key to slowing the progression of symptoms that come with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Consult your primary care provider if you or a loved one exhibits the following signs on a consistent basis: 

• Significant memory loss
• Difficulty performing daily tasks
• Using their native language incorrectly
• Confusion with time and place 
• Poor judgement in decision making 
• Misplacing objects or placing them in unusual places 
• Drastic changes in mood, behavior or overall personality
• Loss of drive, motivation, and ambition

Treatment options for dementia behavioral issues

Potential behavioral issues caused by dementia can take various forms. Some notable examples are wandering off course, aggressive reactions, constant paranoia, or resistance to maintaining good hygiene. Fortunately, there are different options available to treat or minimize these significant behavioral issues.

Vitamin E
One interesting study suggests that taking vitamin E twice a day may slow down the progression of dementia in some people. However, the study is ongoing, and the correct dosage of vitamin E should only be taken under a doctor’s supervision. 

Medication

Talking to a doctor about the option of medication is usually recommended depending on the severity of the behavioral issue. Most likely, your doctor will prescribe anti-agitation drugs. Some examples are antidepressants, neuroleptics, sedatives and sleep medications. 

Communication methods and other adjustments

It’s very important for caregivers and other family members to learn about different methods to communicate with someone with dementia. Simple things like safeguarding the home environment and engaging in therapeutic activities can keep negative behaviors at bay. If these approaches prove to be unsuccessful, it may be best to consider a professional memory care program at a reputable assisted living community.  

Individualized memory care at United Methodist Communities 

Our Tapestries® Memory Care  concentrates on the cognitive strengths of each resident. The resident-directed approach adapts to the unique and natural routines of each person. This strategy helps maximize and enrich their quality of life with dementia. Our professional associates also take the time to get to know each resident, as well as their families to ensure Tapestries® is the best viable option for all involved. UMC has been successfully admitting and welcomes new memory care residents during COVID-19. To read more information regarding our industry-leading guidelines in navigating the Coronavirus, click here. 

If your loved one suffers from early stages of dementia, please contact UMC at Pitman in Gloucester County to find out how we can meet their needs, as well as yours. To learn more about our Tapestries® programs across New Jersey, please contact United Methodist Communities today. 

Originally posted: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2020/11/24/alzheimers-awareness-month/