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Presbyterian Senior Living : Blog
Giving voice to the topics that mean the most to those who matter the most.
As part of Presbyterian Senior Living’s (PSL) pledge to our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Commitment, PSL has partnered with the SAGE organization.
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While you do not need an excuse to learn about the contributions and importance of African Americans in our society, Black History Month is as good a time as any to learn about the many Black History heroes of this culture.
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How do you know when it’s time to begin a conversation about arranging assisted living/personal care for a family member? Did you notice any of these clues when you last visited a loved one?
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As 2023 begins, many people often consider their New Year’s resolutions and what goals they have set for the year ahead. For many, one of their goals is weight loss, or just maintaining a certain weight. This begs the question, what is a good weight? What is a healthy weight? This is the age-old question many people wonder about.
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What is organizational culture and why should it matter to you? According to Gotham Culture; Organizational culture is defined as the underlying beliefs, assumptions, values and ways of interacting that contribute to the unique social and psychological environment of an organization.
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If you’re like many people, the healthy resolutions you made at the beginning of the year are beginning to falter. The holidays are behind us, and the winter doldrums might be settling in. Despite having the best of intentions, it can be a struggle to stick with new year’s goals to eat healthy and exercise faithfully. Unlike the warmer months of the year, when it just seems easier to stay active and engaged, winter can tempt us to stay indoors and hibernate until spring.
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Happy New Year! A new year brings on many thoughts surrounding where you were in the previous year; goals you have of where you want to be in the coming year and the development of a strategy to meet those goals.
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The holiday season is a time for family and friends to come together, and this also can bring stress, anxiety, and even depression due to an array of demands. According to a survey, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) reports that approximately 24% of people with a diagnosed mental illness find that the holidays make their condition “a lot” worse and 40% “somewhat” worse. Here are some tips to minimize the stress that it brings:
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Dear PSL Family, We are heading into one of the most exciting times of the year! Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza, or another annual celebration, this time of year is the opportunity to take stock of our blessings, rekindle old relationships, spend time with the ones we love, and for many, exchange gifts and best wishes to those closest in our lives.
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As winter makes its return, seniors and caregivers often find themselves spending more time indoors. That’s especially true once the hustle and bustle of the holidays are over. It’s a situation that can cause cabin fever for both the senior and their family caregiver. Research shows that as much as 15% of people find the winter months to be a difficult time to stay positive.
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At Presbyterian Senior Living (PSL), we believe our people and our relationships play essential roles in our continued success and stability. For over nine decades, our mission has informed our work. It has helped us create compassionate, vibrant, and supportive environments at each of our communities. And to design resident services that nurture the body, mind, and spirit.
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The month of December holds many recognized holiday celebrations. One of the most recognized is Christmas which is celebrated on December 25th. This marks for Christians, the birth of the last true prophet sent by God. We also celebrate the following well known holidays in December:
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During October, residents and team members from across all Presbyterian Senior Living (PSL) communities participated in the second annual “Thrive Wellness Olympics” and the following events: Move-A-Thon – Physical Dimension Kindness Rocks – Spiritual Dimension Talent Show – Emotional Dimension Two selections: Cards for the Troops and Humane Care for animals – Vocational Dimension Guest speaker – Intellectual Dimension Social mixer – Social Dimension
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Green Ridge Village | Miscellaneous
In celebration of National Model Railroad Month, Presbyterian Senior Living (PSL) is highlighting Green Ridge Village’s Model Railroad – the Green Ridge & Big Springs HO Scale Model Railroad. Green Ridge Village along with Quincy Village and Ware Presbyterian Village all have Model Railroad Clubs for residents to participate in and enjoy.
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Every year, we take the time to recognize the men and women who have bravely served our country. Did you know that currently, in the US – there are more than 11 million seniors that have served in the military, which is over 15% of the current senior population.
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Native American Heritage Month is celebrated to honor the remarkable Native Americans who have contributed a lot to improve the character of the nation. This month is also referred to as American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month. November is the time to rejoice in diverse and rich cultures, histories, and traditions and appreciate the great contributions of the Native Americans, and spread awareness about tribes. National Native American Month started as an effort to get a day of appreciation and acknowledgment for the unique contributions made by the first Americans for the growth and establishment of the United States. The effort has now resulted in a whole month being celebrated for that purpose.
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Health & Aging | Thrive Wellness
October is a special time of year filled with many seasonal experiences. Brilliant colors emerge as we experience fall foliage, and are able to view the beauty of our surroundings and landscapes. Fall festivals, hayrides, crop harvesting, and pumpkin picking are just a few of the autumn experiences we can enjoy. Costume ideas and creativity abound, as children prepare for the excitement of Halloween… And one of course cannot forget the flavors of fall that are available to us, whether pumpkin spice, yummy baked goods, nuts and vegetables that have been harvested – there are so many choices that please the palate.
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With Giving Tuesday coming up next month on November 29th, we wanted to share one of the ways that Presbyterian Senior Living (PSL) supports not just the organization itself, but the people who truly make PSL what it is. Who’s that, you may ask? Our wonderful staff!
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Breast cancer is one of, if not the most, common types of cancer. The American Cancer Society predicted there would be about 287,850 new cases in 2022 for women alone. During the month of October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we want to bring up ways to help prevent the disease as well as ways to increase awareness.
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Global Diversity and Awareness Month: The month of October is an opportunity to pay tribute to the diverse minds and beliefs held by all cultures around the world. We live in a multicultural society and embracing the values of various cultures only strengthens our understanding and appreciation of the world. Open your mind to new views and ideas this month, appreciate cultural differences, and enjoy a fresh perspective you may have been missing. As the world becomes a place where cultures and customs come together, there are multiple opportunities to learn.
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The horrific images coming out of Ukraine over the last few months have left people around the world shocked and heartbroken, including the residents from Long Community at Highland in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. “When the war first started back in late February,” explains Community Life Coordinator Connie Hazeltine, “we would talk about and pray for Ukraine and its people during our devotions.”
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Health & Aging | Thrive Wellness
During the month of October, residents and team members from across all PSL communities will participate in the second annual PSL Thrive Wellness Olympics.
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Caregiver Support | Health & Aging
An essential component of a life plan community is compassionate memory support. When a loved one has Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, finding a care partner that understands the disease and how to promote individual success is vital.
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Caregiver Support | Health & Aging
The phrase “Every minute counts” is a warning to heed if you suspect someone close to you is having a stroke. Getting immediate medical help is vital. So much so that researchers call the first hour after stroke symptoms appear the “golden hour.” If a person can get to the hospital during that first hour, their chances of survival and recovery are much greater. According to the American Stroke Association, strokes are the second leading cause of death globally.
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Health & Aging | Thrive Wellness
Committing to a healthy lifestyle is a goal people often set for themselves. It’s not only important for looking and feeling your best, but for enjoying a longer, better quality life. Unfortunately, not many of us are able to stick with that goal despite having the best of intentions. Experts say there are many reasons why people fail and it often boils down to having clear, attainable objectives.
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National Hispanic Heritage Month honors the culture, heritage, and contributions of Hispanic Americans each year. In 1968 under President Lyndon Johnson, the week of September 15 and 16 was deemed National Hispanic Heritage Week to celebrate the contributions and achievements of the diverse cultures within the Hispanic community. President Ronald Reagan expanded it in 1988 to include a 30-day period that started on September 15th and ended on October 15. The Public Law 100-402 approved it and it was made law on August 17, 1988.
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Every August we celebrate “National Wellness Month” which focuses on self-care, stress management, and creating healthy routines. There is no better time to focus on your wellness than now.
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During the COVID-19 crisis, many people turned to technology for support with necessities. From online grocery shopping to virtual physician appointments, different types of technologies made the pandemic easier to navigate. Even those older adults who were previously reluctant to embrace tech products started using video-chat services, like Zoom and Skype, to safely connect with loved ones.
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Community News | Miscellaneous
There’s an old saying that if you treat employees like they make a difference, they will. This is a tenet that is practiced at all Presbyterian Senior Living communities and one which leads to high team member satisfaction. But even the most loyal of employees don’t usually reach the milestone one team member recently hit. After 45 years at the Ware Presbyterian Village in Oxford, Pennsylvania, Carol Carter is retiring.
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August celebrates National Civility Month as a way to recognize that people being civil to each other is what makes the world a better place. This holiday was founded to help the world remember to treat others the way we wish to be treated ourselves — with kindness, empathy, and respect.
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Health & Aging | Thrive Wellness
The dog days of summer are upon us, and for many, that means spending time outside enjoying backyard BBQs and family get-togethers, pool parties, trips to the beach and outdoor sporting events. Summer is also the time of year when we are most at risk for damage to our skin and eyes from the sun’s Ultraviolet rays. July is the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s Ultraviolet Safety Awareness Month, and it is its mission to spread awareness about the dangers of UV rays and educate on how to protect our skin and eyes from these harmful rays.
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Caregiver Support | Health & Aging
Since the COVID-19 pandemic required most of us to stay at home for long periods of time, there’s been an increase in the number and types of businesses that deliver. From grocery deliveries to pet food supply drop-offs, we've rounded up some of the best services to support aging adults or caregivers.
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Health & Aging | Miscellaneous
Baby boomers have redefined aging since the first members of this large demographic group started retiring in 2012. The term baby boomer comes from the spike in birth rates following the end of World War II. Over the last decade, almost 30 million adults born between the years 1946 and 1964 have retired.
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On July 26, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) will celebrate its 32nd anniversary. In our March blog, we shared information on Ableism, the discrimination against people with disabilities. Ableism is the forward motion of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
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For many of us, as the spring flowers of May start to give way to the warmer temperatures of June, our thoughts turn towards annual pilgrimages to the beach, camping trips in the woods or getaways to secluded mountain retreats. Traditionally June is a time when we turn our attention to recreating outdoors, and in 2019, the U.S. Senate officially declared June as National Great Outdoors Month.
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When you or an older loved one are exploring senior living and care options, one difference you’ll likely discover lies in the ownership structure of the companies. Some are owned by non-profit organizations, and others by for-profit corporations. While there are certainly for-profit entities that provide excellent residential and care services, the reality is that for-profit providers are a business compromised of investors or shareholders who expect a return on their investment.
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Caregiver Support | Health & Aging
The role of caregiving for a loved one can be rewarding and demanding at the same time. Often, a caregiver juggles their responsibilities while also working outside the home and supporting the needs of their spouse and children. It is a balancing act that can become difficult to manage, sometimes putting the caregiver’s own health at risk.
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Aging well is a topic that’s become increasingly popular as more baby boomers leave the workforce. Retirees or those close to retirement often seek new ways to protect their physical and mental well-being over the long term. That’s one reason so many people have become interested in the idea of lifelong learning.
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According to AARP; by 2030, one in every five Americans will be over age 65, and our nation will face a severe shortage in appropriate housing to meet their needs. As people age, they need housing that is structurally and mechanically safe and that accommodates people with disabilities. If we view this statistic through the lens of seniors living on fixed incomes with little savings, providing affordable housing is critical.
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June 21, 2022, in the northern hemisphere, marks the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. According to Britannica, “During the summer solstice, the path of the sun in the sky is farthest north in the Northern Hemisphere and travels the longest path through the sky, and that day, therefore, has the most daylight.” “Each year, the Alzheimer's Association promotes the summer solstice and “The Longest Day” with the saying, “The day with the most light is the day we fight.” On June 21, thousands of participants from across the world come together to fight the darkness of Alzheimer's through an activity of their choice. Together, they use their creativity and passion to raise funds and awareness for the care, support and research efforts of the Alzheimer’s Association.”
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Pets usually make loyal companions who love us unconditionally. They provide a sense of joy and purpose that may be especially welcome during the retirement years. Also, the health benefits associated with owning a pet are numerous. The key is to find the right kind of animal for a senior’s budget, lifestyle, and space.
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Health & Aging | Miscellaneous
Gas prices have been on a roller coaster over the past few months. Because COVID-19 kept more people at home, demand was low in recent years. That led to deflated gas prices that most of us became accustomed to. With demand for gasoline soaring and supply more limited than ever, people are looking for alternatives. This has brought the issue of electric vehicles to the forefront once again.
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Health & Aging | Thrive Wellness
Older Americans Month recognizes the contributions of older adults across the nation. While raising families and building careers, older Americans also gave back to their communities in a variety of ways. In their lifetime, times have changed, and they continue to volunteer and serve their neighborhoods in their own ways. Whether they mentored children, volunteered at a soup kitchen, or served their country, each one deserves recognition for their commitment.
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Health & Aging | Thrive Wellness
Stress is something that all of us experience at times throughout our lives. It can often impact our emotional and physical well-being. As part of the Emotional dimension of Thrive Wellness, in April we recognize National Stress Awareness Month. It is important to highlight stress as we must acknowledge and address it when it enters our lives. There are also now many resources and recommendations known to help, which contribute to lowering our stress levels. Finding the appropriate ways to address stress in our lives, as well as finding the ways and methods that work best for us – will help to enhance our overall well-being and sense of personal wellness.
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From the increased frequency of severe storms to an overall shift in weather patterns, there’s no denying climate change is upon us. To mitigate the situation, we need to make modifications in our lifestyles. While many people have come to understand this reality, some aren’t quite sure where and how to get started.
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Caregiver Support | Health & Aging
When a senior is trying to remain independent in their home, family members often wonder about their safety. From concerns about fires to medication management, there are a variety of potential problems that cause loved ones to worry. Fortunately, technology has evolved to offer products that support the independence of seniors.
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Celebrating what makes us all different and unique and the importance of recognizing the positive impact that diversity has within our families, our communities and our workplaces are the foundation of diversity, equity and inclusion.
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As part of the physical dimension of Thrive Wellness, in March, we celebrate National Nutrition Month it’s important and valuable to take some time to learn about proper nutrition, as well as the related elements involved. In particular, those which become even more important as we age; what essential nutrients and foods should we consume? Simply being mindful and intentional of our food choices is a great first step. Many of us can remember the age-old adage – “You are what you eat” – in some ways, this is true. Like gasoline/diesel is the fuel for many vehicles – so are food and proper nutrients, the essential “fuel” our bodies need to maintain our healthy, active lifestyle.
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Finance & Planning | Miscellaneous
The 2021 tax deadline is fast approaching. Your return must be filed by midnight on Monday, April 18, 2022. While you do have a few extra days to finish your taxes this year, this is a task few people look forward to even if they use a tax preparer or accountant. Added to the stress of tax time is a complication that has popped up in recent years—identity theft. Many seniors aren’t even aware of this concern.
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What you eat plays an essential role in health and wellness, especially as you get older. From heart disease and diabetes to various types of cancer, your diet impacts personal risk for disease. One of those is colorectal cancer. Research shows the dietary choices you make are likely linked to whether you develop colorectal cancer or not.
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As many are aware, March is Women’s History Month. As an organization, we decided what better way to celebrate women’s history than to share the story of how we began, by the means of a remarkable woman, Ellen Parker. In addition to being the driving force behind the inception of our organization, it was 9 women who were the first residents to join us. Our organization's history traces back over 95 years to Newville, PA, which is today the site of Green Ridge Village.
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Have you ever made the statement "the blind leading the blind" when referring to a group of people you don't think have enough skills or commented that your words "fell on deaf ears" when you thought someone did not listen to you close enough? These phrases are ground into our vernacular so thoroughly that we don't even give them a second thought before saying them. We usually mean no harm when we say things like that, but they are ableist statements that are harmful to disabled people.
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As part of the physical dimension of Thrive Wellness, we recognize American Heart Month during February. We consider the important functions of our hearts and how we can ensure their proper health. The human heart is the most important muscle in the human body— without it functioning, we cannot survive. Its function is essential, and it must continually work, never resting, 24/7, 365 days a year.
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Caregiver Support | Personal Care/Assisted Living
When a senior in the family has dementia, it’s important to give careful consideration to how you can meet their needs now and into the future. Primary care doctors often suggest adult children explore memory support programs well before it is necessary to utilize one.
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While most of us are fairly tuned in to skin safety during the summer months, winter can be tough on the skin, too. From the furnace causing dry skin indoors to exposure to the harsh elements outdoors, developing a winter skin-care regimen is essential. The situation can be even worse for older adults who often have thinner, more sensitive skin.
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When we think about diversity, we tend to think about it through some aspects of race, culture, gender or sexual orientation. Another part of diversity is looking at age through the lens of inclusion and belonging; how do we address ageism?
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Are you happy with where you are along your wellness journey? Do you frequently take time for YOU? Time to exercise, walk, engage with friends and family, read, relax, meditate, listen to music – whatever it is that you enjoy doing in your free time? Are you actively pursuing and engaging with hobbies that interest you? What are some ways you engage your body, mind, and spirit along the six dimensions of Thrive wellness: Emotional, Vocational, Social, Intellectual, Physical, and Spiritual?
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From holiday gatherings that can expose people to sickness to the weariness of winter, immunity may be lower this time of year. That’s why it’s a good idea to learn how to pump up your immune system and increase your body’s defenses against illness.
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Health & Aging | Miscellaneous
If the term life plan community isn’t familiar to you, the phrase continuing care retirement community (CCRC) might be. LeadingAge®, an association of nonprofit organizations designed to support and enhance the lives of older adults, surveyed people to see how they felt about the use of CCRC and continuing care retirement community to describe senior living. Unsurprisingly, many older adults weren’t so excited about it.
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Each new year many of us make New Year's resolutions or make goals for the New Year. Some are focused on health and nutrition. Some are more specific, like saving more for my future, going back to school, starting my own business.
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Throughout the hustle and bustle of daily life, it can be challenging to take time to slow down. Add in the holidays, filled with events, shopping, visiting family, and it's easy to get bogged down. The next thing you know, it's the middle of January. Is it possible to make time slow down? If only we had an answer for that! It may not be possible to slow down time physically, but there may be a way to get the most out of our time and increase our happiness over time spent.
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For the 40.4 million people in the United States caring for a senior loved one, practicing a healthy lifestyle might not be a high priority. From tending to a family member’s personal care needs to tracking a medication schedule, caregiving responsibilities can be stressful and time-consuming.
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Caregiver Support | Personal Care/Assisted Living
If you are an adult child who acts as the primary caregiver for an aging parent, you are probably the sibling most attuned to their needs. And you are likely aware of how quickly those needs can change. Long-distance siblings and those who don’t participate in caregiving might not be as aware of the type and extent of care your parent requires. They might also be in denial about the parent’s decline in health, and unaware that a move to assisted living may be on the horizon.
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Have you been scratching your head over what to get your senior loved one for Christmas? With the holiday season right around the corner, we've compiled a list of gift ideas that are sure to satisfy those with all sorts of interests!
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December is the month in which many celebrate Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ. There are several other holidays celebrated in December outside of Christmas. This month we would like to highlight just a few of those holidays and share with you their origin. You may already be familiar with these holidays and enjoy celebrating them with family and friends.
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Philanthropy | Thrive Wellness
Today we wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving! To spread the holiday cheer, we'd like to take a moment to reflect on the Thrive Olympic Challenge and the benefits it brought to not only the residents who participated but also surrounding communities as a whole.
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Health & Aging | Miscellaneous
The upcoming holidays are eagerly anticipated seasons of the year. Many people decorate their homes with candles, twinkling lights, and fresh scented trees. It’s a welcome way to gather with friends and loved ones.
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Caregiver Support | Personal Care/Assisted Living
As a parent grows older, an adult child may wonder what options are available to keep their loved one safe and happy. While many people are familiar with the term assisted living, also referred to as personal care, fewer understand what it entails and when it’s time to consider it. The same is true for in-home care.
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In November, there are two celebrations that everyone may not be aware of, which speak directly to understanding and supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe they both will make you smile!
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October is national breast cancer awareness month. At PSL, we want to do our part to share information in honor of all those who have or are fighting this horrible disease. Unfortunately, "about 1 in 8 U.S. women (about 13%) will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime. A man's lifetime risk of breast cancer is about 1 in 833," according to Breastcancer.org.
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Caregiver Support | Health & Aging
Halloween is a night celebrated in many neighborhoods across the country with a variety of traditions being practiced. Decorating homes and yards, hosting a block party, and donning costumes to go trick-or-treating are just a few. The festivities are usually fun for people of all ages.
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A cough, fever, and body aches are telltale signs of the seasonal flu. As the world’s attention remains focused on fighting the coronavirus, it’s important not to forget that flu season is upon us. The flu virus may begin making the rounds in early October, though peak flu season is usually December through February.
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October is a month filled with celebrations for various groups of people. In this blog, we've listed a few you may not have known about!
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Autumn is a wonderful season of the year that brings with it many traditions and celebrations. You can see beautiful colors as the leaves change and participate in various fall events such as hayrides, apple picking, corn mazes, etc. When walking or driving through your neighborhood on a nice day, you may even smell the pleasant aromas of fresh fruit pies and baked goods filling the crisp autumn air.
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What Is Occupational Therapy? Occupational therapy is a treatment that teaches purposeful techniques you can use to overcome physical, emotional, or social problems experienced in the context of daily living. The techniques taught by occupational therapists benefit the whole person—body, mind, and spirit.
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Caregiver Support | Personal Care/Assisted Living
When a loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, the entire family is affected. And in ways that extend far beyond providing care. From concerns about daily supervision to talking with the senior about giving up driving, families face unique challenges.
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Medicare’s annual open enrollment period for 2022 is almost here. This 8-week period of time gives Medicare recipients an opportunity to make changes to their current health plan coverage. The window for making changes opens on October 15 and closes on December 7 every year.
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National Hispanic Heritage Month honors the culture, heritage, and contributions of Hispanic Americans each year. The event began in 1968 when Congress deemed the week including September 15 and 16 National Hispanic Heritage Week to celebrate the contributions and achievements of the diverse cultures within the Hispanic community.
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2021 has been an exciting year so far for Thrive Wellness, as community committees have been forming in Presbyterian Senior Living’s Continuing Care Retirement Communities. Residents have been leading the efforts, inviting team members to join these important committees that meet monthly in each community.
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What is meditation? Meditation is an extremely ambiguous term that we often hear thrown around frequently in our society. If you ask someone to define meditation, you are bound to get many different answers, but the central concept to take with you is that it's all about finding awareness and perspective through mindfulness. But, what is mindfulness? When you are practicing mindfulness (which I've found lends itself hand and hand to meditation) you are present, rested in the here and now, and fully engaged in the moment.
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Heart disease is the leading killer of Americans, claiming more lives than all forms of cancer combined. This fact is a scary reality that far too many have to face. To start, let's talk about what coronary heart disease is.
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International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples is celebrated annually on August 9. As we recognize this date, we are sharing the foundation for this recognition and highlighting the contributions of Indigenous Peoples to the world. Our goal in each of our blogs is to expand knowledge and celebrate the diversity that has made us who we are as a nation.
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After three months of planning by the Thrive Wellness Community Committee (TWCC), on July 1st, well over 100 independent living residents came out for a field day and picnic. The purpose was to celebrate the kickoff of Ware’s Thrive Wellness initiative.
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You read it in the newspapers every day – the cost of healthcare is rising, the system is harder to understand and navigate, and patients are not getting the benefit for all of the money our healthcare system costs the country. And, if you have chronic illnesses such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, COPD or congestive heart failure, chances are you’ve experienced significant confusion and conflicting information as you navigate the system.
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Health & Aging | Personal Care/Assisted Living
You may be in a situation where someone you care about, may that be a spouse, parent, relative, or friend, is struggling to care for themselves. Perhaps you realize living at home is not the ideal situation for your senior loved one, but you aren't sure how to start the conversation about seeking out a senior living community. If you feel like you can relate to the circumstance outlined above, you're in luck. In this article, we'll cover how to address this often touchy subject and give you tips on navigating the process.
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Reasons to move your senior loved one into a nursing home can vary from high and low. For whatever reason you have chosen to seek out a nursing home for your senior loved one, it is important to know that you are moving them into a place where they will get the best care possible.
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During the month of July, we recognize the long-standing celebration of July 4th, as well as a plethora of other notable days! We wanted to share some of these dates of importance with you as we celebrate diversity and inclusion and continue to learn more about each other.
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I often tell people that my family and I are "outdoor cats" as we spend a lot of our time at home playing in the yard and gardening, and on the weekends and vacation, camping, canoeing, fishing, hiking and backpacking.
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CCRC | Personal Care/Assisted Living
With Father's Day approaching this weekend, many of us may still be coming up with last-minute plans to help dad feel special. Although many people are back to in-person visits, it's likely that some may still be celebrating dad's holiday from afar. If this is still the case for you, you're in luck! We've put together some ideas for celebrating your dad, no matter the distance.
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Caregiver Support | Health & Aging
As summer is in full swing and the outside temperature heats up, it's a perfect time to start talking about preventing dehydration throughout the summer months. Older adults face an increased risk of dehydration due to reduced ability to conserve water, a decrease in thirst, and a decreased daily fluid intake. Chronic illnesses and medication use increase risk as well, so seniors suffering from diabetes or dementia or taking certain medications may be at higher risk of dehydration.
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The month of June offers multiple month-long recognitions and individual dates that celebrate the diversity of our Nation. These celebrations showcase the strength, determination and faith of many different cultures and backgrounds. We share a few widely known celebrations along with a few you may not be as familiar with.
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A few months ago, in one of our Thrive Wellness blogs, we highlighted walking as a great way to engage in a simple, easy, healthy physical activity. Walk when you have time and enjoy it – walk inside, perhaps on a piece of exercise equipment, or head outdoors. When walking outside, one not only gains the benefits of the physical movement itself – but can also enjoy other key dimensions of wellness such as emotional, spiritual, and social. Walking is an activity that is beneficial for various reasons, but how a person walks is noteworthy, as well.
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As the weather gets warmer, people often find themselves spending more time outdoors than they did in the past months. Summer is right around the corner, which brings the promise of afternoon walks, water activities, and picnics. The opportunities are endless! With these activities also come the dangers of the sun's harmful rays. In this blog post, we look at some easy ways to protect your skin during the summer months, along with some common misconceptions about skin protection!
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Are you searching for a budget friendly gift for family and friends or just looking for some easy crafts to do with your senior loved one? We have compiled 5 do-it-yourself (DIY) projects that are fast, fun, and functional for everyday life. These DIY's can be made for yourself or made to be given as an affordable gift!
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May is Older Americans Month, a time to celebrate those who are over 65, our seniors who have contributed to their families, our communities and our country in countless ways. The celebration of this nationally recognized month was established in 1963 when only 17 million living Americans had reached their 65th birthday. About a third of older Americans lived in poverty, and there were few programs to meet their needs. Interest in older Americans and their concerns was growing. A meeting in April 1963 between President John F. Kennedy and members of the National Council of Senior Citizens led to designating May as "Senior Citizens Month," the prelude to "Older Americans Month."
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April is Volunteer Appreciation Month! Every spring, PSL communities honor and celebrate the valuable contributions that volunteers provide them. Volunteers bring their talents, gifts, and skills to share and positively impact the lives of many residents. In this blog, we'll explain why volunteers are such a vital part of our organization, and hear from two avid volunteers at our communities!
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Spring brings the promise of warmer weather, outdoor activities, chirping birds, and longer days, but with it also comes the chores you’ve been putting off all winter. Whether it’s giving your car a deep clean or reorganizing your “junk drawer,” spring is the best time to dive into your long-awaited cleaning projects and get your home feeling fresh and new. In this blog, we have compiled some helpful spring cleaning tips for seniors.
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Scammers and fraud are nothing new, and unfortunately, they’ve been around for a long time. However, as technology gets more advanced and complicated, the scams people can come up with also get more complex. But even just a little knowledge can help you spot and outwit a scammer. Below are some of the most common scams, and what you should look out for in each of them.
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Personal care homes provide seniors with professional assistance when needed and a way to enjoy an active lifestyle. Most personal care and assisted living communities offer meals, housekeeping and transportation services, assistance with the activities of daily living (ADL's), security and 24/7 on-call assistance. Personal care homes provide the opportunity for companionship for those seniors who would benefit from daily support and often host programming in a group setting to promote socialization. Many communities have been successful in adapting activities and engagement to adhere to social distancing guidelines.
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As Presbyterian Senior Living continues on our journey towards belonging, we acknowledge that everyone has a bias. It is a part of who we all are. There are multiple resources available that speak to bias and help you understand bias and its role in the workplace or personal relationships.
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Spring is officially here….and with this wonderful season comes longer days and a trend towards warmer days as well. Fresh air and vitamin D are just a few of the health benefits derived from walking outside. Consider going for a stroll around your neighborhood and community – get outside and really breathe in the fresh air.
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You love your parents. You don't want anything to happen to them. When you see your mom getting behind the wheel, you feel scared every time she heads out to run an errand. What if she misses a red light? Or doesn't hear a siren coming up behind her?
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National Nutrition Month is a time to learn more about how to make informed food choices and develop sound eating and physical activity habits. Set small, realistic goals that help you make positive changes to avoid becoming overwhelmed or being too restrictive. Try the following weekly goals in your daily routine during the next 4 weeks!
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March 8 is designated as International Women's Day, which is a time to reflect on progress made, call for change, and celebrate acts of courage and determination by ordinary women who have played an extraordinary role in their countries' history.
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As the Thrive Wellness launch continues, we decided to sit down and hear from residents first hand, to hear some of their thoughts and feelings about Thrive. Two resident members of the Thrive Wellness Steering Group, Fred from Ware Presbyterian Village and Barb from Westminster Woods at Huntingdon, sat down with Jim Mangol and were interviewed.
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February is American Heart Health Month, but it's important to remember the benefits of keeping your heart healthy all year long. The goal of American Heart Health Month is to save lives by preventing one million heart attacks and strokes in the U.S. by the year 2117. As you’ll see, maintaining a healthy heart is incredibly important. But thankfully, it’s also relatively easy.
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It has been well publicized in recent years that a sedentary lifestyle can increase the likelihood of adverse medical conditions. Some of these conditions include diabetes, heart attack, certain cancers, stroke, cognitive decline, and osteoporosis.
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February is Black History Month. In celebrating the contributions, the challenges, and the African American community's determination, we wanted to take this opportunity to share how this celebration began.
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The Thrive Wellness Steering Group (TWSG) met on January 6th. During this meeting, the team finalized the presentation and education for PSL team members and all residents as part of the Thrive rollout. The next step was to meet with the entire Operations Leadership Team on January 15th to present Thrive Wellness. These leaders from across PSL have all been a part of the whole development process, as they have received several presentations and updates over the last year on Thrive Wellness. This presentation included providing all executive directors and campus leadership with the Thrive Wellness PowerPoint and the Thrive Wellness Community Committee charter for sharing with their resident councils and all residents. Executive Directors will make these presentations soon, along with their steering group representative.
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What gets you out of bed in the morning? At Presbyterian Senior Living, we strive to support individuals to find purpose in their day and have a meaningful life. Whether it is ensuring a team member feels supported, appreciated and that their job has meaning or supporting residents by providing opportunities to try new things or continue pursuing a skill, it requires focusing on multiple aspects daily.
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As the COVID-19 vaccine becomes more available to the staff and residents we serve, it is important to understand the facts. Below are some common questions and misconceptions that are answered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
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As a faith-based organization, Presbyterian Senior Living (PSL) is founded on the belief that every human being is unique and of infinite worth. Based on this premise, Presbyterian Senior Living is committed to fully embracing the diversity of all persons served so that together, we can foster a culture of inclusion in an environment where all people are treated with dignity and respect.
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The Thrive Wellness Steering Group (TWSG) met for the seventh time on December 2nd. During this meeting, the Thrive Wellness Community Committee charter was approved, and the 2021 rollout plan was discussed. In the first quarter of 2021, residents will be provided education about Thrive Wellness. First, Resident Councils will have a presentation from their Executive Director or Campus Administrator and their Thrive Wellness Steering Group member. After this presentation to the council, a Thrive Wellness presentation will be given to all residents via a virtual town hall, community newsletter, etc. Each PSL community will choose the form of communication that works best for them.
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Finance & Planning | Housing & Development
The fall home-selling season is a lot like the college football season – both normally end around Thanksgiving, but a smaller postseason keeps going long after that.
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The season of giving is right around the corner! Although Christmas may look different this year, we still welcome the tradition of gift giving to family or friends living at our various communities! That being said, it is important we maintain safety protocols during this ongoing pandemic. Please continue reading to find out all of our gift giving guidelines for this 2020 holiday season!
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Caregiver Support | Health & Aging
Often times, seniors need extra attention during winter because they are especially vulnerable to colder temperatures, slipping and falling on snow or becoming homebound and isolated. By implementing winter preparation strategies before snow and frigid temperatures settle in, you can keep your aging loved one safe, healthy and as independent as possible in case you cannot be there when the weather is bad.
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In accordance with CDC guidance, PSL is reminding all staff and residents to consider how your holiday plans can be modified to reduce the spread of COVID-19 to keep your friends, families, and communities healthy and safe.
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The Thrive Wellness Steering Group met for the sixth time on November 4th and discussed the Thrive Wellness communication and messaging with the PSL marketing team as we move forward. The marketing team provided a presentation and then engaged the steering group with several questions to get their direct feedback and suggestions as the Thrive Wellness communication plan is being developed.
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Today we celebrate those veterans who served our country. We owe you our thanks, but more than that, we owe you our freedom. There's no way to thank our veterans for everything they sacrificed for our freedom, but on Veterans Day, we have to try. So, thank you to all our service men and women! Below we have highlighted a few stories from veteran residents at our various communities.
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Health & Aging | Housing & Development
PSL is pleased to provide Compassionate Touch® during this pandemic to reduce resident loneliness, build relationships, and enhance engagement. Compassionate Touch® is an evidence-informed approach combining skilled touch with compassionate presence to enhance quality of life.
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The Thrive Wellness Steering Group met for the fifth time on October 14th. It focused on developing key principles for Thrive based on the common elements, themes, and trends highlighted in the feedback data from all residents’ surveys and focus groups. As previously mentioned in this monthly blog series - the steering group studied and analyzed all resident responses. As a result of this, they have been able to “pull” key ideas, common themes, and what PSL residents are saying is most important to them in their wellness journey.
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CCRC | Miscellaneous | Presbyterian Senior Living
As the senior living industry as a whole continues to adjust to the "new normal" during this pandemic, I wanted to share what the Presbyterian Senior Living community teams are doing to connect residents to their own purpose and life meaning.
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Active Aging Week was October 5-11, 2020. It is an international celebration of active lifestyles organized by the International Council of Active Aging (ICAA.) This week-long celebration occurs annually and Presbyterian Senior Living (PSL) has participated for the past 8 years.
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Searching for the right senior living community for your loved one can be difficult, especially if you’ve suddenly found yourself in the position to make the decision or if you’re just starting your search. There are a lot of terms thrown around for each type of care or service offered at different communities, and they can get confusing. But there’s one term you’ve probably come across a few times that tends to be more confusing than others: Personal Care.
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All eleven of the Thrive Wellness focus groups across PSL have been completed, and resident feedback and input has been collected and stored. The Thrive Wellness Steering Group is listening, and residents’ voices through surveys and focus groups are now being heard. Residents’ ideas, suggestions, and recommendations are being taken into account during the development process of Thrive Wellness.
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Quincy Village, a Presbyterian Senior Living (PSL) continuing care retirement community for seniors, is proud to announce that resident Bob Davis recently accepted the Pioneer Network and Rockport Healthcare Services Community Commitment Award on behalf of Quincy Village on September 3.
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Getting a call that your mom or dad is in the hospital is usually not something you want to have happen. If it’s unexpected, you can have a million thoughts flying through your mind at once. Questions about what happened, how serious it is, or what might come next will likely come to mind. With all this initial confusion, it’s possible you might forget something important in your rush to the hospital. Knowing what to bring and what calls to make ahead of time can help you stay calm and focus on what’s really important: your loved ones.
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Suffering from a urinary tract infection at any age is a painful and unpleasant experience. But for seniors — and especially those with dementia — UTIs can result in additional, serious health concerns.
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"When can I visit (my parent, my spouse, my best friend, my child) in person and hold their hand or hug them?" is a question we hear throughout the day. At this time, the answer relies on many different variables that are unfortunately out of our control. What we do know is that being able to connect with your loved one is essential to you, the resident and to us.
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Technology use among seniors is continuously on the rise. According to an updated poll by the Pew Research Center, adults over the age of 65 are more digitally connected than ever before. And some groups of seniors are even as connected as their under-65 counterparts. However, even with the growing tech-savvy senior population, it can be difficult to know what technology is most useful or beneficial for seniors. The following technologies can improve a senior’s life in many ways, from connecting with family to helping with cognitive function.
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An essential component of Thrive Wellness is residents having a voice and opportunities to provide their input as the design and development process continues this year.
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Planning for retirement can't begin soon enough. In fact, any good professional financial advisor will strongly recommend having enough social security, pension and investment income to remain financially afloat for at least 20 years following retirement.
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Caregiver Support | Finance & Planning
As your parents grow older you may find yourself worrying about their financial situation. Whether it’s because of declining health or because their savings are running low, these can be stressful times. But they don't have to be. There are a few simple things you can do to help your parents with their finances that can put them in a more stable situation and give you peace of mind.
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Caregiver Support | Personal Care/Assisted Living
Taking on the role of caregiver for a senior loved one can be challenging. You're faced with a number of new responsibilities and unfamiliar feelings, like worrying about handling the additional obligations that come with caregiving, or fear about the future. You may feel guilt for not being able to do more or even anger and resentment towards your senior loved one.
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Health & Aging | Personal Care/Assisted Living
Have you found yourself suddenly faced with the decision of having to choose a long term care facility for mom or dad? With so many options and so little time, how does one decide what’s best for their current situation?
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Being a caregiver for an aging loved one can be challenging. As he or she continues to need more care, you may start scolding yourself for not spending enough time with your loved one, or for not having the energy or patience needed to give your loved one the kind of one-on-one care they require. When you are feeling exceptionally stressed, tired and worn out, you might even think your loved one is deliberately making it harder for you to care for them properly by being demanding, irritable or unreasonable.
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Living a life in which you are steadily suffering from hearing loss can be difficult. No longer being able to hear the voice of the one you love, or the voice of your children can be heartbreaking. Part of keeping yourself healthy in your senior years is ensuring that your hearing is also in check. Many seniors deny their hearing loss and put off getting their hearing checked which in turn, can prolong the effects of hearing loss.
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Embarking on an exciting journey with ample opportunity, this year, residents of PSL are actively engaging with each other and team members to design an organization-wide, resident-led, holistic wellness program— Thrive Wellness. Officially, Thrive Wellness will launch in January 2021; however, between now and then, many special and essential steps are being taken as the development process begins— as it should, with a "grass-roots," resident-led approach.
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Gay pride or LGBT pride is the promotion of the self-affirmation, dignity, equality, and increased visibility of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) people as a social group. Pride, as opposed to shame and social stigma, is the predominant outlook that bolsters most LGBT rights movements. June is Pride Month and below are a few facts about why this month is celebrated.
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There has been a lot of discussion recently surrounding the date of June 19. This holiday, Juneteenth, is significant to the African American community. Below are a few facts about this holiday.
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Maintaining a healthy weight is not only more challenging, but even more important as we age. You can support your aging loved one's health and continued independence by supporting healthy lifestyle choices.
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Caregiver Support | Health & Aging
With summer right around the corner, and many people spending lots of time outdoors, it is important to keep your health in mind. Summer is a time for the outdoors, but it can be easy to fall victim to heat-related health issues if you’re not careful. The good news is there are a few summer safety tips you can follow to make sure that doesn’t happen.
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In the midst of the ongoing pandemic, Presbyterian Senior Living, and the senior living industry as a whole, has received a large influx of questions regarding COVID-19. Here, our CEO, Jim Bernardo, answers ten frequently asked questions.
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