Holidays in Long Term Care

 

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

Visit Mindfully

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

Share Your Traditional Holiday Dinner

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

Exploring Different Activities Together

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

Holidays at UMC at Bristol Glen

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

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

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

Words From A Veteran

 

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

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

Meet Our Veteran Donald, 91 years young

    

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

Bootcamp and a Change of Plans

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

An Award, A TV Appearance, and Some Volleyball

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

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

The Letter Struggle

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

Serving Shaped Donald’s Life in More Ways Than One

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

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

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

Thank You Veterans For Your Service

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

 

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

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

Seniors, Don’t Ignore Your Physical Pain

 

Most of us accept that aches and pains are a normal part of aging. Arthritis, for example, is a very common condition among independent seniors that causes pain if it isn’t managed correctly. It’s one thing to sleep “wrong” one night and have a little neck pain for the first hour of the day, but it’s a whole other thing to have unusual symptoms that last or are recurring. Our recommendation is to not wave off any symptoms you’ve never experienced before. If you’re not sure what’s unusual or not, here are some symptoms all seniors need to be aware of, as they can be a sign of a serious health issue.

Pain and symptoms seniors should not ignore

1. Shortness of breath. If you feel pressure in your chest, have difficulty catching your breath, tightness in your lungs, or dizziness, it’s nothing you should ignore. These can be symptoms of a partial or complete blockage in your coronary artery, which can cause a heart attack. For women, this combined with flu-like symptoms (even over a few days) can even be a sign of a heart attack in progress. It could also be a sign of asthma, fluid around the heart, pneumonia, fluid around the lungs, or lung disease, so have your doctor check you out as soon as possible.
2. Post-menopausal bleeding. Having bleeding after menopause is a symptom that you should see your gynecologist about. It may not be anything to worry about, but it could also be a symptom of certain gynecological cancers.
3. Blood in your stool. If you see traces of blood in your stool or your stool appears black, it’s time for a check-up. While some medications and supplements can change your stool color (for example, Pepto-Bismol can darken your stool), it’s best to have a doctor make sure it’s not blood. Blood in your stool can indicate colorectal cancer, bleeding in your gastrointestinal tract, an ulcer, hemorrhoids, or diverticulitis.
4. Skin lesions. Risks of skin cancer increase as we age, so painful or unusual patches of skin or moles should be checked out. Often, these lesions appear as flat lesions, brown scar-like lesions, crusty lesions, or lesions with uneven shapes with blue, white, red, or dark brown specks. They may also appear as red nodules or waxy bumps. Skin cancer is very treatable when caught early, so it’s worth the doctor’s visit.
5. Painful breast tissue. If your breast tissue feels swollen, painful, or has a lump, it’s definitely time to see the doctor. These are common signs of breast cancer, which is treatable when detected early. Although it predominantly affects women, men can have breast cancer too, so don’t ignore your discomfort if you notice anything unusual. Although many lumps are benign, it’s always beneficial to have a doctor examine you.
6. Lower back pain and fever. If you have pain around your hips on one or both sides, especially if you also have a fever or feel nauseous, it could be a sign of a kidney infection. These are treatable but can be life-threatening or cause lasting kidney damage if you don’t get the right treatment quickly, especially if you have diabetes. These symptoms can also be a sign of a urinary tract infection, a weakened immune system, or a urinary tract blockage.
7. Calf or thigh pain. Are you feeling a throbbing or cramping pain in one of your calf or thigh muscles? This could be deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a clot in your leg. Other symptoms include reddened, hot-feeling skin where the pain is located and swollen veins. Seniors are at risk for DVT if they sit for a long time, have cancer or heart failure, have varicose veins, or are dehydrated. This is a potentially life-threatening health condition, so it’s important to get early treatment. This usually includes an anticoagulant to thin the blood, or a surgeon may have to remove the clot if it doesn’t respond to the medication.
8. Pain in your big toe. Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals and it causes searing pain in joints, most commonly first occurring in the big toe. One of the most common risk factors is a diet of red meat, alcohol, and high-fructose corn syrup products, but it can happen to anyone. It’s very painful, but can be treated by your doctor with medication. Without treatment, you’re put at high risk for kidney stones and kidney failure, so it’s essential to get treatment.

Bristol Glen is a leading assisted living community in Sussex County, NJ. We offer a beautiful and welcoming space for seniors who need additional care and assistance to live a full and abundant life. Our long-term care team is compassionate, fully trained, and ready to assist seniors with their health, including managing dementia, diabetes, and other medical conditions.

For more information on UMC at Bristol Glen and how we can effectively manage chronic health conditions in seniors, please contact us today or visit our website at:https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/blog/seniors-dont-ignore-your-physical-pain/

The Difference Between In-Home Care and Assisted Living

 

Many children with senior parents struggle with deciding between getting their loved ones in-home care or moving them into an assisted living community that provides a continuum of care. Before making a final decision, it’s important to look at the pros and cons of each option to find the care that suits mom or dad – and you – the best.

What is assisted living?

An assisted living community is a space or several spaces, that caters to seniors who need help with ADLs (Activities of Daily Living) such as getting dressed for the day, managing daily medications, and meal preparation. Every community is different in terms of the lifestyle they offer and the care they provide, so it’s important to visit some well-known providers in your area to get a feel for what the assisted living community will offer.

Advantages of assisted living

The best-assisted living communities can accommodate adults with a wide range of needs, from retirees who simply don’t want the hassle of maintaining a house anymore to seniors with complex health conditions or limited mobility. While your parents would be moving out of their home, assisted living can offer a very rich community experience with a wide range of amenities like dining spaces, landscaped gardens, salons, fitness centers, activity clubs, and seasonal events.

The biggest advantage of this type of living is that it is very secure and gives great peace of mind. If your parents travel, their home is safe and looked after, and all maintenance and security are taken care of. If they become less mobile, their home is already geared up to accommodate wheelchairs and prevent falls. If their care needs change, services can be instantly stepped up to accommodate these needs. If your parent develops a memory condition, there is a specialized support program in place that includes around-the-clock care.

And, most importantly, the best-assisted living communities with a continuum of care also ensure that your parents get to age in place – that they won’t be separated or need to move to a nursing home.

Disadvantages of assisted living

There are some potential drawbacks to moving into an assisted living community that you should also consider. For one, every community is different, so it can take time to find the right fit for your parents. Another potential issue is that your parents will have to physically move from their home. Moving can always be a challenging process to manage, and relocating could mean your loved ones will be further away from friends and family. However, a community with a welcoming team of staff and a vibrant social calendar will help make this transition much easier for them. Remember, the community you help them select needs to be a place where they could see themselves really loving and calling “home.”

What is in-home care?

This is a flexible senior care service where a qualified caregiver provides assistance to your parents in their own home. It’s a great alternative to assisted living if your parents are really adamant about not moving.

Advantages of in-home care

The main advantage is that your parents don’t have to move from their current home. This is significant for people who are very attached to their home, who are a strong part of their community, who have family and friends nearby, and who have a home that is relatively easy to manage.

In addition, care services can be supplied on an as-needed basis and tailored to your parent’s requirements, often making the service more affordable in some ways than assisted living. The best senior home care agencies supply a wide range of assistance including meal preparation, companionship, running errands, skilled nursing, overnight care, medication management, and assistance with grooming, bathing, and dressing. Many agencies also provide in-home care for elderly people with dementia conditions, seniors who are recovering from surgery or illness, or those who require palliative care.

In-homecare can also be provided to assist you in caring for your parents yourself. For example, if you need someone to assist your parents while you’re at work, while you are away on holiday, or for any other reason, they can step in and give you respite.

Disadvantages of in-home care for seniors

There are some drawbacks to this service depending on your parent’s needs and environment. For example, you may have to fall-proof their home to help prevent injuries. Another thing to consider is that unless you have 24-hour in-home care, your loved one may need you or other family members to step in to provide caregiving and assistance.

It’s also important to draw up a spreadsheet on the costs of staying at home. For example, their home may still require mortgage payments in addition to repair and maintenance costs that may make it more expensive to receive in-home care than to sell the house and move to an assisted living community.

Finally, while in-home care providers are great companions as well as caregivers, a community can offer more in terms of friendships, social events, and activities. This is especially important if your parents live in an isolated area, are far away from friends and family, or are worried about them becoming socially withdrawn.

To find out more about independent-style assisted living in NJ, contact the team at United Methodist Communities! We run a beautiful, world-class assisted living community in rural Sussex County, and we’re happy to help your loved one start this journey. Please contact us today or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/blog/the-difference-between-in-home-care-and-assisted-living/

The Mission of UMC Bristol Glen

 

When you’re looking for an assisted living community or a space for your loved one to receive memory care, the most important thing you can do is get to know your provider. Understanding their mission and values, and how they make these a reality, will show you the kind of care your loved one will get, what their daily life will be like in the community, and how they will be cared for. That’s why we’ve decided to tell you all about UMC at Bristol Glen, a leading assisted living community in Sussex County, NJ!

Our Mission and Values

Throughout the more than 100 years that United Methodist Communities has been around, we’ve always been about one thing – helping seniors live a full, abundant life. That means providing seniors with every amenity and service they may need and then letting them and their families play a leading role in how this care is delivered. From choosing the time you want your breakfast, whether or not you want spiritual care, and the extent to which you want to participate in our social community, the power to choose – and live independently – is in the hands of your loved one.

We also strive to create a homey experience that’s very different to what many people think of when they consider assisted living! We work to create a balance between meeting assisted living residents’ needs and encouraging the independence they deserve. While all the support your loved one needs can be delivered in a secure environment by trained staff, we’ve worked hard to make our space feel like a caring community and comfortable home.

Abundant Care, Set in Nature’s Beauty

One of the things we are most proud of, other than our resident-directed approach to care, is our beautiful grounds. Sussex County is one of the most beautiful places in New Jersey, and Newton, the bustling small town that Bristol Glen calls home, has sweeping views of the Kittatinny Valley, one of the most scenic parts of the Great Appalachian Valley. With an abundance of green spaces and a love of nature, it’s a picturesque but not remote area for senior living. Our residents have full access to the amenities of the town, including shops, museums, churches, libraries, and galleries, while enjoying some of the country’s most beautiful natural scenery.

In terms of dementia care, we offer an industry-leading memory care program called Tapestries, which provides specialized support for seniors with cognitive health issues. With trained teams to provide supervision, therapists to support cognitive health, and beautiful facilities, seniors are supported in maintaining as much independence as possible while still remaining safe and secure.

Visit Bristol Glen and You Won’t Want to Say Goodbye!

At UMC at Bristol Glen, a CCRC in Sussex County, NJ, we offer beautiful, spacious apartments that are fully functional for limited mobility residents while being stylish and welcoming. We also offer Tapestries Memory Care for seniors with dementia conditions and strive to assist every resident to live a fulfilling and abundant life.

If you want to find out more about assisted living in New Jersey and Tapestries Memory Care in Sussex County, NJ, you can view our community virtual tours, read about our services, and much more all on our website at: https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/blog/the-mission-of-umc-bristol-glen/

5 Fall Activities for Seniors and Their Families

 

Fall is arguably the best season in New Jersey, and thanks to the cooler weather and beautiful scenery, it’s a favorite for seniors and families too! Here are some great fall activities to enjoy, from our independent senior living community in Sussex County.

#1 – Apple Picking

Getting outdoors is great for seniors, and apple picking is a perfect opportunity for the whole family to explore and enjoy nature together. Visit local farms in your area to pick your own delicious apples (we love Windy Brow Farms, Hillcrest Orchard and Dairy, Beemerville Orchard, and Pennings Orchard), and be sure to take time to enjoy fall farm activities, deli treats, and markets. Just remember to save some apples for jams, pies, and desserts!

#2 – Fall Foliage Trips

The fall colors are usually their best at the beginning of October, so pack a picnic and take a day trip to see the scenery! UMC at Bristol Glen is conveniently located near some of the best places to visit for leaf peeping, including High Point State Park, Kittatinny Valley State Park, Swartswood State Park, and Hopatcong State Park. Remember to pack a camera for some lovely family photos too!

#3 – The Corn Maze Train

Sussex County is filled with railroad heritage and beautiful rolling farmlands – and the Corn Maze Train is the best way to enjoy both! Currently running now until October 27^th, it’s a wonderful experience for seniors and families. You’ll ride to the scenic century-old Snyder Farm, which has a pretty picnic space and maze games for both the youngsters and young-at-heart to enjoy.

#4 – The Honey and Garlic Festival

For a tasty fall treat, visit the Annual Sussex County Harvest Honey and Garlic Festival at the Sussex County Fairgrounds on October 9^th. It’s a family and senior-friendly event all about local heritage and agricultural tourism, filled with area vendors, crafters, and artists showing their wares.

#5 – Fall Crafting

For less mobile seniors or days indoors, you can create a fun crafting experience for the whole family! Learn to make leaf garlands, make clove-studded orange pomanders, or learn how to knit cozy winter scarves. It’s also a great time to bring out a puzzle you can all make together or bake delicious fall treats like pumpkin sugar cookies. Another fun activity is to plant a small indoor garden together using indoor plants and pretty planters. We love planters filled with fragrant herbs or flowering succulents on a sunny windowsill, and they add a much-needed touch of greenery and color through the winter months ahead.

We’re proud to say that our CCRC in Sussex County earned a place on the U.S. News Best Nursing Homes and Short-Stay Rehabilitation Lists, reflecting our dedication to our residents! With well-appointed apartment-style living set in beautiful natural surroundings, a fine dining communal space, and a social calendar filled with hobby clubs, guest speakers, and community events, we’re proud of the life we help create for our seniors!

If you want to find out more about independent senior living in Sussex County NJ, then please get in touch today or visit our website at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/blog/5-fall-activities-for-seniors-and-their-families/

Differences between Memory Care and Assisted Living

 

Understandably, most people don’t know a lot about the services available at a senior living community until a loved one requires significant care and management. Since we all don’t know what the future holds, it’s important to consider a CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community) as a senior living option for mom and dad. At a CCRC, all levels of senior care are available under one roof. If your senior loved one should develop an issue that requires elevated assisted living services or advanced memory care, they will not have to uproot their life and move again – they can remain in their community for as long as possible in a CCRC like Bristol Glen.

With that in mind, our memory care team in Sussex County, NJ, is sharing some insights on the differences between memory care and assisted living – and how to choose the right option for your loved one.

What is assisted living?

Assisted living is when a senior moves into a community that offers staff, amenities, and services that meet general care requirements. Seniors who move into assisted living have different needs, but generally they can no longer meet all of these care needs themselves at home. With the amenities and services provided, residents are putting their health, wellbeing, and independence in the best hands. For example, if a senior is a fall risk, has diabetes, and is struggling to maintain their home and do grocery shopping, a move into assisted living will provide the right support and safe living conditions they need.

Senior services from leading assisted living communities include:

• Spacious apartments that are maintained daily
• Meal services and community dining with other residents
• Proper medication management and check-ins with medical professionals on-site
• Assistance with activities of daily living – like bathing, grooming, getting dressed, and going to the restroom
• Access to physical therapists and other specialized medical professionals, as needed
• A variety of recreational activities and social events

What is memory care?

Memory care is assisted living with additional services for those who have Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia. It’s designed to meet the specialized needs of seniors with cognitive conditions, so it’s more intensive in terms of the level of care, the number of staff members to a resident, and the type of activities available to memory care residents.

People with cognitive conditions need additional support to enjoy their senior years and have a fulfilling senior living experience, and that’s what memory care delivers. Each resident is evaluated before moving into the community in order to properly assess the stage of their condition and their general health. The memory care associates supporting them are trained not only in helping residents with cognitive health issues, but also providing stimulation, companionship, and one-on-one personal care.

This level of personalization ensures that memory care teams are able to provide therapies that help residents access different parts of their brain and manage dementia-related stress factors and challenges. Memory care specialists also know how best to communicate with residents to keep them busy, engaged, and relaxed throughout the day.

In memory care, all the desirable aspects of assisted living are adapted for residents to accommodate their cognitive health issues. From unique diets and meal preferences to daily therapies and cognitive activities, memory care provides a safe, monitored, yet welcoming environment that meets each person’s needs.

Which is better – memory care or assisted living?

This comes down to whether your loved one has a cognitive health issue or not. Generally, assisted living is ideal for any older adult who needs assistance with daily life, can benefit from structured community living, and would appreciate easy access to amenities. Assisted living can accommodate seniors who need some help but are still quite independent, as well as seniors with complex medical conditions that need daily monitoring and management.

If your loved one has a diagnosed cognitive health issue, however, memory care is a better option. Even if their condition is currently mild, care can be tailored as time goes on and memory care associates can keep a close eye on their cognitive and physical health. It also provides a safe space where they are much more secure against wandering or accidental injury (which are considerable risks for people with cognitive health issues). Memory care also provides a lot of stimulation and therapies designed to slow cognitive decline. If you suspect your loved one has a cognitive health issue, it’s worth talking to their doctor about performing an assessment so that you can make an informed decision about moving them to a memory care neighborhood as their needs increase.

Memory care and assisted living at Bristol Glen

As we mentioned earlier, when considering a move to a senior community it’s best to look into an option that provides all levels of care under one roof like UMC at Bristol Glen. At our leading CCRC in New Jersey, we’re dedicated to supporting abundant, independent living, assisted living, and of course, offer our specialized Tapestries memory care program to seniors in Sussex County.

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

If you want to find out more about our approach to assisted living or about memory care in Sussex County, NJ, then please get in touch today or visit our website at:

https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/blog/differences-between-memory-care-and-assisted-living/

The Perks of Living in a Senior Community

When it comes to moving into assisted living, it’s normal for seniors to worry about leaving their old life and home behind. It’s a big decision to make, and one that shouldn’t be made lightly. But when older adults see the perks of senior living communities, especially ones that provide hotel-like amenities and fun activities, they often wonder why it took them so long to make the move! Here’s some insight from the United Methodist Communities team on how much they have to look forward to when moving into our senior living community in Sussex County.

It’s not like the old days!

Senior living has come a long way in the last couple of decades. Most people can’t believe how different it is from what they’d imagined. Far from a cold and impersonal facility, Bristol Glen is designed with one thing in mind – to give seniors a full, abundant, and independent life. Here’s what our residents love about living here.

• Beautiful grounds – We’re set in 74 acres of rustic landscape where gardening teams maintain the formal garden areas, there are plenty of pathways to explore, and seniors can relax to the sights and sounds of the countryside. Our grounds are a wonderful space for a peaceful walk, reading a book, or joining in on outdoor activities and social events.

• Spacious apartments – For the majority of our residents, we offer spacious, apartment-style living. There are no shared rooms unless it is required and there are both 1 and 2-bed apartments for spouses and singles. Every apartment is designed to be open, sunny, and inviting, with their own kitchen space should you want to cook for yourself.

• Aging in place – We bring services to our residents rather than moving people based on their care needs, which means everyone gets to stay in their own home as long as possible. This creates a wonderful sense of stability and security, where no one needs to worry about leaving their home for nursing home because our community provides varying levels of care under one roof.

• Independent living – We believe in living life to the fullest and helping seniors to do that too. Our services are scalable, ensuring you don’t have to use any service you don’t want, and our team is focused on respecting our resident’s preferences and routines.

• Easy access to care – At the same time, every care service is right there if you need it. If you have to go into the hospital for an operation, our team will be there when you get home to help you heal and recover. If you or your spouse has a fall, you fall ill, or you have concerns about dementia or other health conditions, we’re there to provide immediate medical help. If you need a doctor or specialist, we’ll organize your appointment and get you there on time.

• Lively social events – Moving to a senior living community should feel like a new, exciting chapter in your life. A chance to meet new people, make friends and indulge in your hobbies. Our social calendar means that life never gets dull – and you’re welcome to participate as much or as little as you like. From book and games clubs to dancing, fitness classes, educational talks, and seasonal events, we work hard to make our community a fun, lively, and enriching space to be.

Come and visit us at Bristol Glen and see the best of senior living

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

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

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

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/blog/the-perks-of-living-in-a-senior-community/

What is a CCRC accredited senior living community?

Have you had a talk with mom and dad? If it’s time for them to move into a senior community, it can be overwhelming to decide on the one that makes the most sense for your senior parents. During your search, you come across terms you may not be familiar with, like “CCRC.”

United Methodist Communities at Bristol Glen is a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) in New Jersey, and can adjust each resident’s level of care as needed. There are many benefits of living in this type of senior living community, and we’ve outlined them for you within this article.

What exactly is a CCRC?

A CCRC is a community that provides the scalable services and living arrangements that any senior needs. If mom or dad is still very independent, they can live in the community on their own terms,  and otherwise go about their usual routines. It’s a flexible approach to senior living where the resident gets to run their own life while reaping the benefits of community living.

Who lives in a CCRC?

All types of seniors can be catered to in a CCRC! If dad is newly retired and simply wants to downsize to a more manageable home while he travels and enjoys retirement, then these fully serviced and maintained properties are the ideal lock-up-and-go. If mom is getting older and wants the convenience of in-house dining, but also a lively social calendar and a chance to make more friends, this is also a great choice. And finally, if mom or dad needs extra help with day-to-day activities, managing a chronic health condition, or even has a memory loss condition that requires 24/7 attention, a CCRC like Bristol Glen can assist with that too.

Seniors of all ages, abilities, and lifestyles live at our CCRC because their experience is tailored to their needs, making it the ideal choice for them and their families!

Scalable services that work as residents age

At our CCRC in NJ, our philosophy focuses on abundant living and aging in place. Essentially, every activity and service is ready and waiting for your senior parent, but it’s supplied at their discretion. This means they can scale services up or down as needed (for example, if dad develops dementia or if he needs nursing care after an operation or illness). Perhaps, the best part is they’ll never have to move again. All care services are provided on-site, ensuring that your parent stays in the comfort of their own home for as long as possible.

These services are also designed to add quality of life and convenience to everyday living. Your loved one may not need medication management or nursing now, but having access to an onsite restaurant, gym, beauty salon, housekeeping services, community clubs, and social events are all wonderful options for a full and active life in a CCRC!

Find out more about our senior living community in Sussex County NJ

If you have any questions about independent senior living, it’s time to talk with our team at Bristol Glen. We take pride in providing a CCRC in Sussex County that gives all of our residents – no matter their medical needs or mobility restrictions – a fulfilling, active, and abundant life.

Contact us today for more information on CCRC benefits or visit our website at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/blog/what-is-a-ccrc-accredited-senior-living-community/

Is it time to make the move to Assisted Living?

Trying to decide when to help your parent make the transition to assisted living is often difficult and stressful, especially if mom or dad has reservations about the idea. As it turns out, a good amount of people still have negative connotations about senior communities. Outdated stereotypes, such as being confined to a small, clinical-looking room with minimal interaction, are all too common. Fortunately, they are very far from the truth! Modern assisted living communities, especially progressive organizations like UMC, prioritize all areas of wellness for their residents by constantly updating their services and extracurricular activities offered on-site. Full-service UMC communities have the bandwidth to provide high-level care like that of a nursing home, but without the stereotypical “nursing home” feel. With that being said, the main thing to keep in mind is that not moving mom or dad into assisted living when it’s needed can put their health and quality of life at risk!

If you’re not sure if it’s time for mom or dad to make a change, here are some strong indicators that show it’s time to have a conversation about moving into assisted living.

#1 – Increasing health complications

Around 80% of older adults suffer from at least one chronic health condition, and many have multiple health concerns to maintain. These can become very difficult to manage independently or even with the help of a family member. Increased care needs are better managed by professionals who are not only able to supply the help they need now, but are trained to watch for other health concerns, monitor medication, and act quickly in an emergency situation. In assisted living, all residents have 24/7 access to a care team who is experienced in treating chronic illnesses, nursing care, medication management, and much more.

#2 – Neglected hygiene

One of the first signs that an older adult is struggling is neglect in their hygiene and personal care. In the ill and elderly, bathing, grooming, and taking care of everyday hygiene can be difficult and exhausting, or they may even be unaware that they are forgetting to take care of themselves. Signs of neglect include bad body odor, unkempt and dirty hair, dirty nails that are too long, and clothing that appears too small, damaged or unwashed. Poor hygiene can lead to health complications and a poor quality of life, but it can be addressed and reversed with the help of knowledgeable, trained associates in an assisted living community.

#3 – Safety issues

Home can easily become an unsafe space as we get older and experience changes in mobility. Falls in the home are the leading cause of emergency room visits, severe injuries, and even injury-related deaths in senior adults. Furthermore, senior forgetfulness can cause wandering, fires, and dangerous use of medication when unsupervised for long periods of time. In an assisted living community, apartments are designed to optimize safety. In addition, associates who are on-site all day, every day are trained to help residents move safely around campus to prevent falls. Should a resident find themselves in a sticky situation, they can activate their 24-hour alert pendant and receive advanced medical care almost immediately if needed.

#4 – Isolation

As we’ve seen during the pandemic, isolation has a very powerful impact on our mental and physical wellbeing. For elderly people who are less mobile, restricted by health conditions, or unable to travel independently, isolation can be devastating to manage. It’s a primary cause of depression and anxiety in seniors and can lead to severe mental and physical decline. Assisted living communities are much more than medical and housing facilities and are actually a great source of support for seniors. With an event-filled social calendar, clubs of all varieties, and plenty of neighbors to socialize with, a good assisted living community helps seniors to reconnect with the outside world and alleviate loneliness.

Find the best assisted living community in Sussex County

Bristol Glen is part of the United Methodist Community network, a collection of assisted living communities in New Jersey dedicated to supporting abundant and independent living for all seniors. Our apartment-style living, dedicated care teams, wide range of personal care services, vibrant social calendar, and beautiful grounds are just some of the reasons why we earned a place on the U.S. News Best Nursing Homes and Short-Stay Rehabilitation Lists!

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

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/bristol-glen/is-it-time-to-make-the-move-to-assisted-living/

5 Easy Easter Crafts for Seniors to do with their Grandchildren

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

1. Sock bunny

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

2. Salt dough Easter Eggs

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

3. Easter potato stamps

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

4. Easter bunny bookmark

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

5. Yarn Easter eggs

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

Joyful, abundant independent living for seniors in Sussex County

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

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

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

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

March is Women’s History Month! Let’s talk about 3 pioneering women in history

This March, we’d like to spend some time exploring the extraordinary achievements of women throughout history. They’ve helped land Neil Armstrong on the moon, fought for freedom, and invented technologies we rely on today – often going unrecognized for their essential role in human history. Here’s a quick look into the lives of three pioneering women, with a brief description of who they are and what they’ve accomplished from our team of leading providers of independent senior living in NJ.

#1 – Coco Chanel

This revered French designer formed one of the most iconic fashion houses of our time. Ambitious, determined, and entertaining, Coco Chanel was an enigma that transformed fashion and made it accessible for everyday women. She invented so many of the classics we rely on today, from the little black dress, cashmere cardigans, and suits for women to making athletic casual wear chic. She’s hailed as a true liberator of women’s fashion, choosing to focus on helping all women feel comfortable, stylish, and appropriate in any setting. Chanel was the only fashion designer who featured on Time magazine’s list of 100 most influential people of the 20^th century, ruling Paris’s fashion scene for almost 6 decades.

#2 – Elizabeth Garrett Anderson

Elizabeth Garrett Anderson is famous for becoming the first woman in Britain to qualify as a physician and surgeon. She achieved this remarkable accomplishment in 1865, after finding a loophole in the educational system, fighting for her place amongst disapproving male peers, and being rejected from all the most prestigious universities for being a woman. Anderson’s practice focussed on women, especially those lacking the resources to access private care. She later became the first woman in Britain to be appointed to a medical post when she became one of the visiting physicians to the East London Hospital for Children. Anderson was an active member of the suffrage movement fighting for women’s right to the vote, established the London School of Medicine for Women, and later became the first female mayor in England.

#3 – Amelia Earhart

The first woman aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, Amelia Earhart was a woman with a will to break barriers and win! The American-born adventurer became a celebrity in the male-dominated world of aviation as the first woman passenger to cross the Atlantic by airplane. This wasn’t enough for Amelia, and she went on to break further records, including achieving the US Distinguished Flying Cross for her non-stop solo transatlantic feat. She also became a visiting faculty member for the aeronautical engineering team at Perdue University, a member of the National Women’s Party, a serving Red Cross nurse’s aide in WW1, and an early supporter of the Equal Rights Amendment. Amelia Earhart was inducted into the National Aviation Hall of Fame and the National Women’s Hall of Fame, with commemorative memorials to her achievements around the country. Just before her 40^th birthday, she vanished while attempting to become the first woman to circumnavigate the world by airplane. No one knows what truly happened on that flight and she was tragically just 7,000 miles short of her goal, but her achievements remain exceptional to this day!

Exceptional independent living in Sussex County for exceptional men and women

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

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

If you want to find out more about senior living in Sussex County NJ, then please get in touch today or visit our website at https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/bristol-glen/march-is-womens-history-month-lets-talk-about-3-pioneering-women-in-history/

The Importance of Eating Seasonal Foods, Especially for Seniors

Wherever you live, chances are that your local grocery store has a wide range of fruits and vegetables available all year round. While that’s great for convenience, it’s not always the best for your health. Here’s some insight into what it means to eat seasonally and why it’s better for your health, especially if you are a senior.

What is seasonal food?

Seasonal food is the produce you can buy at the time it’s harvested. Fruits and vegetables have a seasonal cycle and eating seasonally means eating what’s just been harvested in your local area. Think strawberries and peaches in summer, and squash and nuts in the fall.

What’s the problem with out-of-season produce?

There’s nothing inherently wrong about out-of-season produce like avocados from South Africa, oranges from Spain, or tomatoes from Mexico. Eating them as they are harvested while in those areas is actually eating seasonal produce! However, getting them to your local grocery store means that they have to travel extensively before they get to your plate. Just think about what has to go into bringing freshly harvested bananas from Brazil’s summer harvest to your table in winter!

By the time those bananas get to you, they’re not as good as seasonal produce from your local area. This is because:

• They are picked before they’re fully ripe, so they don’t get the full nutritional content and flavor of a freshly harvested, ripe product
• They have to travel for days or weeks, with nutritional qualities and flavor lessening each day
• They may be sprayed with preservatives and other chemicals to help keep them in good condition during the journey

In addition, the carbon footprint and packaging needed to import and transport out-of-season produce is terrible for the environment – and it does nothing to support local farmers either.

Why eating seasonally is essential for good senior health

To stay healthy, seniors need to eat plenty of nutritious food. Vitamins and nutrients help to keep the mind and body healthy, reduce the risk of age-related health conditions, and can help manage a wide range of chronic diseases including heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. Because these foods are so fresh and tasty, they can also be consumed in a healthier way, including in fresh salads, soups, as steamed veggies, or even low sugar desserts.

How to find seasonal food

So, we’ve established that seasonal food is tastier, more nutritious, better for the environment, and better for local farmers – not to mention better for seniors! But how can you find it? There are some great apps like the Seasonal Food Guide that anyone can use, and you can also print out a useful little “What’s in Season” produce calendar too. Here’s a quick guide to when basic fruits and vegetables are in season in New Jersey.

• Apples – July to October (cold storage apples available until spring)
• Asparagus – May, and June
• Beets – June to December
• Broccoli – June to November
• Blueberries – July and August
• Carrots – June to September (cold storage carrots available to March)
• Cauliflower – August to November
• Corn – July to August
• Cranberries – October to December
• Fennel – October and November
• Green beans – July to September
• Grapes – September and October
• Kale – June to November
• Leeks – August to December
• Nectarines – August and September
• Pears – August to December
• Peas and pea greens – April to July
• Potatoes – July to December (cold storage potatoes available year-round)
• Rhubarb – May to July
• Spinach – May to September
• Tomatoes – July to September
• Winter squash – August to December
• Zucchini blossoms and zucchini – June to September

In northern states, it’s obviously a bit difficult to eat seasonally all the time, but it’s a good opportunity to eat seasonally more often. Also, you can store many seasonal fruits and vegetables for months or even years by canning and preserving them.

Health, happiness, and abundant living – Independent senior living in NJ

Bristol Glen is part of the United Methodist Communities network of senior living communities. We’re passionate about providing a space where seniors have the assistance and resources needed to live a full, abundant, and independent life. From delicious dining options to a full social calendar, we have it all! If you want to chat about independent living in Sussex County or how we help senior residents stay healthy, get in touch with us or visit our website at https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org

Original blog posted on https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/bristol-glen/the-importance-of-eating-seasonal-foods-especially-for-seniors/