Exercising and Staying Cool in this Summer Heat

There’s being cool, and there’s staying cool – and it turns out they are two very separate things! If you have been plopping down near the AC and aren’t getting your exercise in, we are talking to you! We know it’s been a very hot and humid summer, so experts at our independent senior living community in Sussex County put together this list of tips on staying cool this summer while you get your workout in!

First and foremost, we always recommend speaking to your healthcare provider before starting a new exercise program. Even if a program is marketed towards seniors or beginners, we urge you to confirm with your doctor. Once the doctor gives you the green light, we suggest the following precautions.

1. Stay hydrated. It’s common for seniors to feel less thirsty as they age, so it’s essential to drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Drink water before, during, and after your workout, as well as throughout the day. It helps if you make drinking water a part of your routine, like when you first wake up in the morning and with each meal. In the summer months especially, we urge you not to leave the house without your trusty water bottle!
2. Avoid exercising between 10am-2pm when the sun is strongest. We recommend exercising shortly after you wake up, the earlier the better! It’s less humid and hot from 5am to about 8am. If you’re not a morning person, we suggest exercising in the evening when the sun is starting to go down, as the humidity will go down with it.
3. Stay in the shade. If you choose to exercise outside, we recommend staying in the shade. Try taking an easy walking path through a wooded area or a shaded park. Staying in the shade as much as possible is a best practice for seniors whether exercising or relaxing outdoors.
4. Break up your exercise. If you normally take a thirty minute walk, you could break it up into three 10 minute walks or even two 15 minute walks so you don’t overexert yourself in the heat.  Research shows that short bursts of exercise spread throughout the day are just as effective as longer sessions.
5. Use the buddy system. Exercise is safer and more enjoyable with a friend! If you’re heading out for a walk in the woods, bringing someone along with you is highly recommended.
6. Water exercises. Most gyms, or activity centers offer water aerobics, which is a great way to beat the summer heat! If you’re not interested in a group class, swimming in itself is a great workout.
7. Protect your skin from the sun. You should be using sunscreen anytime you’ll be out in the sun for extended periods. Don’t forget to re-apply, especially after swimming or working up a good sweat.. We also recommend wearing protective clothing like a large sunhat and sunglasses.
8. Eat some ice cream. That’s right, it’s a tasty treat that will help keep you cool in the summer heat! If you’re a Bristol Glen resident, you know downtown Newton is just a five- minute drive away and has a few great options for ice cream. Our favorite is Hayek’s Market!

Heat Illness Symptoms to Know

As a final precaution to summer sun safety, we recommend being aware of symptoms related to heat induced illnesses so you know what to look for. The following symptoms can be a cause for concern. If you are experiencing any of these, get yourself indoors to a cool location and contact a medical professional immediately. The symptoms include, but are not limited to: headache, dizziness, nausea, weakness, muscle cramps or pains, clammy pale skin, or hot and dry skin, heavy sweating, and a fast or weak pulse.

Sun Safety at UMC at Bristol Glen

Any senior resident at Bristol Glen can tell you there are numerous local walking paths and hikes that are shaded – which make for great spots to get your exercise in! Additionally, our associates understand how harmful the summer sun can be to seniors who are not properly protected. That’s why they take extra precautions with our assisted living residents during these hot weather months, especially when there are a lot of fun outdoor activities planned!

For more information about our assisted living support services in Sussex County, call us today or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/blog/exercising-and-staying-cool-in-this-summer-heat/

The Benefits of an Independent Lifestyle Community

Families face many considerations as they realize their loved one needs help. They may have challenging bridges to cross, like getting their proud parent to agree to make the move to a senior living community. Change is generally hard for older folks, and no one knows this better than UMC. No matter what, change is unavoidable, and it is your responsibility to make the best, informed decision with your loved one. While the idea of an independent lifestyle community may be a definite “no” at first, their mind may change after hearing all the benefits they get to enjoy.

All Play, No Work

While the saying is really “work hard, play hard,” there is no more hard work for mom or dad once they enter our doors. Let’s be honest, they worked hard their whole lives to provide for you, and now you have the opportunity to help them enjoy their time however they please. We maintain all the hard work required, like cooking, cleaning, and laundry, so your loved one can focus on their priorities. We offer many opportunities, on and off-site activities to attend. At Bristol Glen, we have daily exercise classes, resident-run clubs, off-site shopping and lunches, and daily planned activities ranging from baking, arts and crafts, and games like bingo or cards! The options are endless, and it is always the resident’s choice as to what they want to participate in.

Friends Are Right Outside Their Door

In addition to all the regularly scheduled activities available on a senior living campus, your loved one also gets a community. Mom will make new friends that will feel like she’s known forever! Since everything is right outside your loved one’s door, it’s never been easier for them to meet up with friends for a cup of coffee or an afternoon stroll. It’s not just the other residents either; new residents will also get to know a team of professionally trained caregivers who go out of their way to get to know your loved one and their needs.

A CCRC Community

UMC at Bristol Glen is a CCRC or a Continuing Care Retirement Community. A CCRC prioritizes an independent lifestyle where seniors can live life on their own terms, while making new friends and being in a safe and secure environment. The best part of our CCRC is that residents only pay for the services they need. You can choose how much assistance your loved one needs (if any), and as their needs may change, you can adjust their care level without ever having to change their address!

A Picturesque Country Retirement in Sussex County NJ

UMC at Bristol Glen has a beautiful 70-acre campus nestled in beautiful Sussex County, New Jersey. While your loved one enjoys the beauty and peace of a country setting, a bustling town like Newton is only a short drive away. At UMC Bristol Glen, mom and dad can really enjoy the best of both worlds.

For more information on independent senior living at UMC at Bristol Glen, visit our website to book a tour today: https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/blog/the-benefits-of-an-independent-lifestyle-community/

Walk the Walk: Benefits of Walking for Seniors

 

National Walking Day is April 5th, and with spring quickly approaching, now’s the time to prioritize walking more throughout the day. While you may think a daily walk doesn’t do much, that preconceived notion couldn’t be any further from the truth! Walking daily can help strengthen muscles, maintain a healthy weight, and keep your joints flexible – and that’s just the beginning. The benefits of walking extend even deeper into our physical and mental health. Let’s take a closer look at why it’s especially important for older adults to walk daily.

Improves Cardiovascular Health

The most significant benefit of a daily walk is a healthy heart. Countless studies have linked a daily walking routine with lower risks of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, strokes, and cardiac arrest. “Even small amounts of walking each week have been shown to reduce these risks by around 15% to 20%. Meanwhile, studies of daily walking regimens have shown a 30% to 50% reduction in participants’ risk of cardiac arrest.”^[1]

Lower Blood Sugar

It’s normal for your blood sugar to increase after a meal, and a fifteen-minute walk can naturally reduce those blood sugar levels while strengthening your muscles. Moderate exercise like walking requires your body to use more of the glucose in your bloodstream. Over time, this can help you to naturally maintain a lower blood sugar level. It also makes the insulin work more efficiently in your body.

Reduces Pain

Walking is an ideal, low-impact exercise for seniors that will reduce ongoing pain. While that might sound odd initially, avoiding exercise can worsen your pain. If you consistently experience joint pain, walking can lubricate your joints and help strengthen the muscle, alleviating some of the pain you experience. Walking can also reduce lower back pain and can aid older adults in maintaining a full range of motion as they age.

Improves Mental Health

Walking increases blood flow and circulation throughout your body and brain while releasing endorphins that naturally boost your mood and reduce anxiety. While walking increases your overall energy levels, it can also enhance your sleep – which we all know improves your state of mind. Additionally, you can walk with a friend or family member for some more social interaction. This not only boosts your overall mood, but also lowers seniors’ risk of depression, loneliness, and other mood disorders.

Make Walking Part of Your Routine at UMC The Shores

While it might be hard to start at first, you can’t deny the strong benefits walking has on our physical and mental health. We assure you won’t regret starting this habit, and your body will be thankful you did. UMC at The Shores offers daily exercise classes and has a beautiful campus to walk around – both inside and out! In our community, meeting a few friends for a walk has never been easier. With everything you need right outside your door, you can live abundantly and without worry.

For more information on our independent senior living community UMC at the Shores, please visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/theshores/

^[1] https://www.thecaregiverspace.org/8-science-backed-health-benefits-to-walking-for-seniors/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/theshores/blog/walk-the-walk-benefits-of-walking-for-seniors/

How a Healthy Diet Can Enhance Senior Living

 

Eating a balanced, healthy diet is important for people of all ages, but it’s essential for older adults. As we age, many parts of our lives that require an extra bit of attention, like ensuring we get adequate sleep, ensuring we’re properly hydrated, and ensuring that we’re eating a healthy diet. When we neglect these aspects, our health can go downhill fast. In this article, our senior health specialists will go over why a healthy diet in particular is so important for older adults. 

Helps Keep Chronic Diseases at Bay

Did you know that eating a healthy diet is a form of disease prevention? Certain chronic medical conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, and high cholesterol are more likely to affect seniors. While many of these chronic diseases are manageable or treatable, prevention is always the best course of action. 

We recommend you speak with your doctor before making any changes to your diet. To keep certain chronic diseases at bay, your doctor may advise you to eat foods that are rich in nutrients but low in saturated and trans fats, processed sugars, and excess calories. Too much sodium in your diet can also have negative effects on your health. 

Healthy Bones

A diet rich in calcium helps keep our bones healthy and strong as we age. Osteoporosis is a condition where bone density is reduced, which increases the risk of fractures, and it’s especially prevalent in senior-aged women. You can incorporate several tasty and calcium-rich foods into your diet, including broccoli, spinach, soy beans, and tofu. 

Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are also high in calcium, so it’s beneficial to try and add these foods to your diet if they aren’t already a part of it. If you don’t enjoy foods that are naturally high in calcium, you can take a calcium supplement, but please speak with your doctor before doing so. 

Reduce the Chance of Infections

Our immune systems protect us from various diseases and illnesses, and eating a healthy diet is critical to maintaining a strong immune system. As we get older, it’s natural for our immune systems to weaken, making senior adults more prone to infections like colds and flus, especially during the colder winter months. 

Foods rich in Vitamin C, like citrus fruits, help to fortify the immune system and fight off certain infections. You can also take a Vitamin C supplement if citrus fruits aren’t a regular part of your diet. However, as with any supplements, consult your doctor before taking anything. 

Improved Bowel Movements

Healthy digestion and regular bowel movements are essential to our overall health. Diets that are lacking in fiber can result in constipation, while diets lacking in certain nutrients can result in infrequent bowel movements, constipation, or diarrhea. Many older adults have sensitive stomachs, and finding the right balance for you when it comes to your diet can require some trial and error. If you’re experiencing infrequent bowel movements, constipation, or diarrhea, talk to your doctor about altering your diet to bring you some digestive relief. 

A Healthy and Happy Mind

Perhaps the most important benefit, a well-balanced diet is a vital part of a healthy, happy mind. Studies show that diets consisting of nutrient-rich foods can help eliminate mood swings, improve ability to focus, and even help mitigate symptoms of anxiety and depression. As always, we recommend speaking with your doctor first if you’re concerned about you diet’s effects on your mental health. 

If you’d like more information about creating and maintaining a healthy diet for seniors, or if you have any questions about independent senior living in NJ, please contact our team or visit us at: https://umcommunities.org/

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

3 Signs You’re Ready for Independent Senior Living

Independence is a top priority for many seniors. This is especially true when it comes to deciding where to reside. Even though some may argue that moving into a senior living community means relinquishing independence, we’re here to tell you why the opposite is true! The beauty of a modern senior living community is letting go of chores and other responsibilities and making more time for the active, independent retirement lifestyle you deserve. If you’ve been bouncing the idea of senior living back and forth, here are the top 3 signs that you are ready for the move.

#1. The idea of giving up cooking excites you. Have you ever realized that a meal is so much more enjoyable when it’s cooked by someone else? There’s a reason for that. When someone else cooks, the stress of going to the store, finding the right ingredients, and following the specifics of a recipe is alleviated off your plate (literally and figuratively). And let’s not stop there, you know what would make every meal even better? Having someone else do the dishes after! You’ve paid your dues and probably washed enough dishes to feed an army – it’s time to give it up and make more time for yourself. At a senior living community like UMC at Collingswood, associates on-site can cook, create meal plans, and clean up after meals on a daily basis. UMC at Collingswood also offers community dining in an elegant and spacious dining room where other residents and your family and friends can accompany you for a meal. The on-site executive chef is culinary trained and ready to accept requests or adhere to any dietary restrictions residents may need.

#2. Home maintenance is becoming too much. Now, this may be a tough one to come to terms with, especially if this is the home you’ve raised a family in and loved for many years. With your kids all grown up and moving on with their own families, you now have less help with maintaining your sizable home. Homeownership is a lot of work to do on your own. There are recurring tasks like dusting, wiping down kitchen counters, cutting the lawn, keeping the bathrooms clean, and doing loads of laundry – just to name a few. And then there are always unexpected issues that pop up from time to time like shoveling snow, unclogging a toilet, and repairing HVAC units or leaky pipes. Not to mention, all those monthly bills for utilities, electricity, cable, and more. The complexity of home maintenance is just another reason why living independently in a senior community has become so appealing. You can say goodbye to chores and having to keep track of the multiple utility bills coming in. All senior living apartments at Collingswood are maintained and cleaned daily, and if an unexpected problem arises – you can make a quick call to one of our associates who will handle it ASAP. With home maintenance removed from your roster, you now have the time – more importantly, the energy – to take part in the activities you truly enjoy doing.

#3. You’re looking for more opportunities to learn, enjoy activities, and connect with others. This is hands down the most important sign we’ve been leading up to. Many seniors are under the impression that living in a community is equivalent to a loss of independence, but this couldn’t be more untrue. Relinquishing control of home maintenance issues, cooking, and cleaning frees up your time significantly so you actually have more independence to do what you actually want to do. Have you ever wanted to take painting lessons? Zumba classes? Or for the more ambitious, learn a new language? With all the mundane daily tasks taken care of by our reliable associates, you can now do all of the above! Not to mention, you’ll make some new friends along the way who enjoy the same interests – what could be better than that?

Independent senior lifestyles in Camden County NJ

At our senior living community in Camden County, seniors are free to choose the independent lifestyle that makes the most sense for their interests and mobility level. We have many activities and events scheduled every month that all residents are welcome to join. Some of our crowd favorites include group meditation, dance classes, movie nights, and much more. Not to mention, our professional associates are available 24/7 to assist if necessary and ensure the safety of all activities performed on-site.

To find out more about independent lifestyles for seniors in Collingswood, NJ, please contact us today or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/collingswood/

Original blog posted on https://umcommunities.org/collingswood/blog/3-signs-youre-ready-for-independent-senior-living/

4 Tactics for Discussing the Benefits of Senior Living with Parents

If you have aging parents, then you know that conversations about their health and well-being may be a challenge. When was the last time you talked to your elderly parent about going to their doctor for a check-up, or had to coax them into getting routine blood work done?

If you’re thinking that your parents might benefit from living in a senior community like Bristol Glen’s Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), the thought of this conversation with them might feel overwhelming! Commonly, aging parents can be more than a bit resistant when it comes time to discuss the possibility of senior living. However, for the benefit of their health, safety, and happiness, these conversations are important and absolutely worth having.

What should you do when you want to discuss senior living with your elderly parents and they just won’t listen?

• Observe and listen. You may think you know what your parents need, but there’s a chance that you might not be offering the right solution. Everyone wants what is best for their parents’ safety, but before you can offer your opinion on what that is, you need to fully understand their day-to-day struggles. Offering suggestions without listening to what they want will put parents off and make them even more resistant to change.
  Instead, do your best to observe their day-to-day routine and note where their struggles occur. This way, your parents will appreciate the fact that you’ve taken an interest in their side of the story, and you’ll build trust.
  
  
• Recalculate the risk. It’s easy to immediately think of worst-case scenarios and to let yourself feel anxious, worried, and nervous about your aging parents. Instead of allowing your imagination to get the best of you, assess the current risks and have an honest discussion with your parents about available options. Perhaps a home health aide who visits a few hours a day is a better option, or perhaps your parents require around-the-clock care – it’s a decision you must make together.
  
  
• This is a process. As one of New Jersey’s premier senior living and care organizations, UMC associates talk to thousands of concerned children every year about how to approach these conversations. Don’t expect that it’s a “one and done” type deal. Often these conversations happen dozens of times and often the decision takes months of repeated conversations.
  
  
• Frame your suggestions carefully. It’s crucial to be sensitive when discussing senior living with your parents, and it’s necessary to look at it from their point of view. Their independence is important to them and your suggestions may be seen as a threat.
  
  
• Be honest. If you find the ideal CCRC for your parents, be aware that they may not share your enthusiasm. Discuss the positive aspects with them but also make it clear that you’re willing to discuss the details they find not-so-positive. Only highlighting the good may make them feel like you aren’t taking their concerns seriously.
  
  

Help them make the transition to senior living

We understand the difficulties people face when having discussions with their elderly parents about their health and their living circumstances. If you’re struggling to get through to your parent, we’ve created a helpful video entitled Having the conversation that offers some support and guidance. It can take some time for older adults to get over their initial fears, which commonly include loss of independence, a change of environment, and having their routines changed entirely.

If you feel it’s time for your parents to consider a CCRC or assisted living but they aren’t receptive to hearing what you have to say, it may be beneficial to involve a professional. Our staff is experienced in diplomatically discussing sensitive topics such as this.

Giving back to your parents in their older years is a privilege and we want to support you in your ongoing conversations about their safety, and wellbeing. If you need assistance having these difficult conversations, please call a UMC associate today.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/4-tactics-for-discussing-the-benefits-of-senior-living-with-parents/

Medical Marijuana in New Jersey – What You Need to Know

Recently, the State of New Jersey has started implementing and expanding its Medical Marijuana Program (MMP). Here’s some information about what this means for seniors in the state and how this affects them, from our CCRC in Sussex County, New Jersey.

What conditions are treatable with medical marijuana?

Because these are changing all the time as new health conditions are considered and laws are amended, always check with your medical doctor to see if you are eligible. Currently, the following conditions are approved in the program:
• Terminal cancer
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Muscular Dystrophy
• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease
• Terminal illness with less than 12 months prognosis
• Seizure disorder
• Glaucoma
• Intractable skeletal muscular spasticity
• PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)
• Treatment of severe or chronic pain resulting from HIV, AIDS and cancer

Registering for the Medical Marijuana Program

To register for the MMP, your eligibility must be evaluated by a doctor registered with the MMP. If your own doctor is not registered as a MMP practitioner, they can recommend a physician who can assist. You can also find a registered doctor through the NJ MMP website.

Additional information for people interested in this treatment and their eligibility:

• Only medical marijuana cards registered in the State of New Jersey can be used within New Jersey.
• Patients who cannot easily travel to an Alternative Treatment Center can designate a qualified caregiver to obtain their medicinal marijuana on their behalf. This person will need to be registered with the NJ MMP, but only if they are collecting it on a patient’s behalf.
• Medical marijuana is not currently covered by Medicaid or other health plans in New Jersey.
• Patients’ dosage will be prescribed by their MMP registered physician.

Independent senior living in our Sussex County continuing care retirement community Bristol Glen, an independent senior living community based in Sussex County and part of United Methodist Communities, is dedicated to providing seniors with comfortable, living arrangements and services that free up their time to enjoy life.

Contact us to find out more about our CCRC and our assisted living facilities, amenities and services.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/medical-marijuana-new-jersey-need-know/

Five great services for seniors in Camden County

Having an active social life brings many great benefits to seniors, helping them to stay healthy, active and enjoy all that life has to offer. Camden County has an extensive range of senior services designed specifically to help seniors stay active members of their communities.

1. Camden County Cultural and Heritage Commission: The services this organization provides include art workshops, an art gallery and musical performances. They also offer musical performances for residents that are housebound. Located on S. Park Drive and Shady Lane, they can also be reached at (856) 858-0040.
2. Camden County Libraries: Free membership is available to all seniors living in member communities, including Gloucester Township, Haddon Township, Winslow Township, Bellmawr, Merchantville, and Camden.
3. State parks:Citizens 62 or older qualify for a Golden Passport (costing just $10) that allows access to all national parks, historic sites and recreational areas under the Federal Government. This passport also may include discounts on activities inside these areas, including camping, boat launching and parking.
4. Recreational trips:There is a year-long calendar filled with trips for seniors, including day trips, overnight stays and weeklong vacations. To find out more, contact the Senior Citizen United Community Services at (856) 456-1121.
5. The Walt Whitman Cultural Arts Center, Inc.: This center offers a full year calendar of cultural events for seniors, including plays, exhibits and poetry readings. While some events are free, any paid events carry a reduced fee for seniors.

Independent assisted living for seniors in New Jersey 

UMH Collingswood Manor in Camden County is designed to enhance independence. Our residential programs and living options assist your loved one only when they require it and scale these services at any point if a different level of care is needed. In addition to catering to independent seniors, we also offer care for  those needing assistance.

Collingswood Manor in Camden County NJ also serves residents of Gloucester County, Salem County and Cumberland County.and especially the towns of Collingswood, Camden, Cherry Hill, Gloucester, Pennsauken, Voorhees Township, and Winslow Township, New Jersey.

For more information, please contact UMH Collingswood Manor today and ask about our assisted living community  or visit http://www.collingswood-manor.umh-nj.org/.

This content was originally posted at http://www.umh-nj.org/blog/five-great-services-for-seniors-in-camden-county/

Senior living tips: How to prevent falls

Falls in the home are one of the biggest risks facing seniors. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say that one out of three seniors fall each year – and that falling once doubles the risk of a second fall.

This is a very serious issue for seniors, as falls carry a  high risk of broken bones and head injuries, with over 250,000 older adults needing hospitalization for hip fractures alone. In addition to carrying significant personal trauma and financial cost, injuries also tend to have a longer and more intensive recovery time as we age, requiring more extensive therapy and medical attention.

Here are some tips for minimizing the risk of falls in seniors’ homes: 

• De-clutter: Clutter creates tight spaces full of obstacles, making the home hard to move through freely. This can include anything from rooms overcrowded with furniture to stacks of books and magazines. Removing clutter and ensuring wide paths for walkers and wheelchairs will prevent collisions and injuries from falling items.
• Install good lighting: Poor lighting won’t just strain your eyes, it also makes it harder to see where you’re going – making good lighting (especially in hallways and on staircases) an essential safety feature. Installing nightlights by the bed is a great way to softly light a bedroom without having to get up in total darkness.
• Handrails: Installing handrails or grab bars in bathrooms and on stairs will help seniors to maneuver themselves more quickly and easily without loosing their balance.
• Remove tripping hazards: Things like loose rugs, polished floors, electrical cables and damaged floorboards can easily cause a fall. You can either repair the item or remove it from the home and replace it with something secure and safe to walk on.
• Non-slip carpeting and mats: Putting non-slip mats in bathtubs and showers will give your loved one an extra grip when bathing. They can also be placed on kitchen floors and tiled/smooth-surfaced outdoor areas that can get wet and slippery.
• Get the right clothing: Trousers and skirts that are too long are another serious tripping hazard for seniors. Correctly hemmed clothing will help increase comfort and safety. Also, check the soles of your loved one’s shoes for wear that can reduce their grip and, if your loved one likes wearing socks around the house, invest in some non-slip socks.

Our NJ Assisted Living Communities are designed with safety in mind 

At United Methodist Homes (UMH) of New Jersey, we offer all our residents comfortable and spacious senior living accommodations that are designed to meet senior safety standards – whether your loved one is independent or requires assisted living services. Complete with 24-hour emergency alert and fire safety systems, these apartments are well lit, fully equipped and easily navigable on foot, with a walker or in a wheelchair. We also offer housekeeping services, interior maintenance services, meal services and 24-hour access to licensed nurses for additional care and peace of mind.

For more information on our independent senior living, assisted living, long-term and nursing home care communities in Sussex County, Camden County, Monmouth County, greater Gloucester County and greater Cape May County in New Jersey, please contact us at UMH today or visit www.umh-nj.org for more information.

This content was originally posted at http://www.umh-nj.org/blog/senior-living-tips-how-to-prevent-falls/

The importance of social events in assisted living communities

When researching assisted living communities, most of us prioritize important things such as the quality of the residential apartments, services offered, quality of care and costs. However, social interaction plays a crucial role in the quality of life of assisted living residents. The Shore’s assisted living community is dedicated to providing residents with the opportunity to lead an abundant life and here’s why:

• Strengthen relationships: Having a diverse social circle that embraces different activities helps to build new relationships and strengthen established ones, keeping your loved one in touch, and busy and enjoying life.
• Mental stimulation: Interacting socially with a range of people through different activities provides essential mental stimulation which is key to a healthy, functional brain. Studies show stimulation has been known to help reduce mental decline, lower the risk of dementia-related conditions and depression.
• Build confidence and trust: Seniors with active social lives are open to trying new things, building new skills and achieving goals – helping to build self-confidence and achieve personal ambitions. By working together with others, relationships are built on a healthy foundation of trust, creating an environment where concerns can be shared and support is available.
• Increased physical health and reduced stress: Social activities can help seniors stay physically active, maintaining essential muscle strength and actively reducing harmful stress. Exercising in groups – whether in the form of gardening, nature walking or dancing – also helps keep seniors motivated to stay active and healthy.

Experience the social community spirit of United Methodist Homes 

All of UMH’s assisted living communities place a strong emphasis on social  interactions as part of our dedication to providing you or your  aging loved one with the highest quality of life and care. While all activities are optional and seniors can participate as much or as little as they are comfortable with, we aim to deliver  diverse offerings. Our support services minimize daily tasks and free up time for activities such as:

• Instrumental and vocal performances and choirs
• Line dancing
• Yoga
• Physical fitness classes
• Family days
• Book clubs
• Gardening clubs
• Church services
• Bake sales
• Speakers
• Card clubs
• Craft days

The Shores Assisted Living Community

We encourage residents to take advantage of the many recreational activities and social outings sponsored by The Shores. Our location provides an added opportunity for residents to enjoy  the Music pier, Aquatic Center, golf course, beach, fishing, and more. For more information about assisted living at The Shores, please contact us today or visit http://www.the-shores.umh-nj.org/assisted-living-south-jersey/.

This content was originally posted at http://www.umh-nj.org/blog/the-importance-of-social-events-in-assisted-living-communities/