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Presbyterian Senior Living : Blog
Giving voice to the topics that mean the most to those who matter the most.
Across Presbyterian Senior Living communities, an array of learning opportunities have taken shape over the decades, most initiated and conducted by residents. From wood shop classes to fitness opportunities, instrumental music groups to arts and crafts gatherings, a variety of chances to continue to learn abound.
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Health & Aging | Miscellaneous | Presbyterian Senior Living
Fall is a favorite time of year for many people. The days can be sunny, crisp, and invigorating. After the busy days of summer, most people settle back into a comfortable daily routine. One less welcome part of fall, however, is that viruses begin to make the rounds again. As people spend more time indoors, the risk for contracting colds, flu, and COVID-19 is higher.
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Hispanic Heritage Month is an annual celebration of the history and culture of the U.S. Hispanic and Latino communities. In 2023, Hispanic Heritage Month will last from Friday, September 15 through Sunday, October 15. This recognition commemorates how those communities have influenced and contributed to American society at large. It is a time to celebrate the history, culture, contributions and achievements of the Hispanic and Latino communities.
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Health & Aging | Miscellaneous | Presbyterian Senior Living
Eyes are the windows to the world. They enable us to perceive the beauty around us and to perform daily tasks, from reading to cooking to driving.
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Health & Aging | Miscellaneous | Presbyterian Senior Living
While the flu vaccine is top of mind in the fall, autumn is also a good time to think about what other vaccines you may need. As people age, their immune system weakens, making them more susceptible to diseases and infections. This is why vaccinations are crucial for the elderly population. Vaccines not only help prevent illnesses but also reduce the risk of complications and hospitalizations.
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Miscellaneous | Presbyterian Senior Living
People being civil to other people is what makes the world a better place and is the key focus of National Civility Month, which is held in August each year. National Civility Month was founded to help the world remember to treat others the way we wish to be treated ourselves — with kindness, empathy, and respect. What does it mean to treat each other with civility? It means to be civil in public discourse and behavior, be respectful of others whether or not you agree with them; it means standing against incivility when you see it.
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Family Guidance | Health & Aging | Miscellaneous | Presbyterian Senior Living
Coping with the death of a spouse or partner is one of life’s most difficult journeys. Whether it’s a longtime marriage or a committed partnership, finding your way alone is a major adjustment. The weeks and months can bring a roller coaster of emotions. The bereaved might have a few days or even several weeks when they begin to feel stronger and experience a new normal. Then a memory or event triggers the sadness of the loss and the struggle begins again.
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Diversity & Inclusion | Miscellaneous | Presbyterian Senior Living
We celebrate International Day of the World's Indigenous People on August 9. We need indigenous communities for a better world. There are an estimated 476 million indigenous peoples in the world living across 90 countries. They speak an overwhelming majority of the world’s estimated 7,000 languages and represent 5,000 cultures. They make up less than 5 percent of the world’s population, yet account for 15 percent of the poorest. Indigenous peoples have sought recognition of their identities, their way of life, and their right to traditional lands, territories and natural resources for years.
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Miscellaneous | Thrive Wellness
July is Ultraviolet Safety Awareness Month. We love seeing our community members enjoying outdoor living spaces, but we want to remind you to protect your skin while enjoying the warm, sunny weather! Do you know the risks associated with too much sun exposure? According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States and worldwide! In honor of UV Safety Awareness Month, learn more about the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays.
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Health & Aging | Miscellaneous | veteran
PSL has long been committed to providing exceptional care and support to veterans and military widows or widowers, including help from lesser-known programs. Gary Dwyer, Veteran Assistance Specialist at Presbyterian Senior Living, remembers meeting a World War II prisoner of war who was rescued by an American patrol moments before facing execution.
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Caregiver Support | Health & Aging | Miscellaneous | Personal Care/Assisted Living
If you are preparing for a parent’s move to a senior living community, you might be wondering what your role in their life will be after this transition. Will you still be their caregiver? Should you stay involved in their care? Or is it time to step back and let the professionals take over? After being responsible for supporting an aging parent’s needs, it can be tough to imagine what comes next.
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In the US, July is Disability Pride Month. It marks the 1990 enactment of the Americans with Disabilities Act, a landmark U.S. rights law that extended civil rights protections to persons with disabilities and assured that all Americans would benefit from their talents. There are an estimated 1 billion people with disabilities worldwide. Their contributions benefit us all.
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On the way home from a recent backpacking trip my fellow hikers and I were rehashing the past few days and making plans for our next adventure when the discussion turned to the subject of managing the amount of visitors to backcountry and wilderness areas. Specifically the idea of implementing quotas in high traffic areas and limiting access struck a nerve with one member of our outfit. “The whole idea is ridiculous. Why should I have to ask the king’s permission to access land that belongs to the people? We should be able to use it anytime we want.”
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Health & Aging | Miscellaneous | Thrive Wellness
Nurturing flowers and vegetables in your garden does more than just beautify your space. It’s also good for your mental and physical wellbeing. The health benefits of gardening range from reduced stress to greater stamina and flexibility. With aging, however, comes some undeniable physical changes that might make gardening a little more difficult. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to overcome them. Here are some of the ways gardening is good for your overall health, along with tips to help you continue to safely dig in the dirt as you grow older.
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Health & Aging | Miscellaneous
Father's Day is a special occasion to show our appreciation and gratitude for the incredible men who have shaped our lives. These 10 tips will help make the day memorable for your dad while helping you connect with him, even from a distance.
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Health & Aging | Miscellaneous | Thrive Wellness
There are reasons to volunteer at any age, but for older people, there are some very significant ones. Research shows that seniors who donate their time to a good cause enjoy greater life satisfaction. They also have better mental and physical health than their peers who don’t volunteer. A study conducted by the Corporation for National and Community Service revealed that older adults who volunteer at least 100 hours a year are able to maintain an active and independent lifestyle. They also experience longer life expectancy and fewer incidences of depression.
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Diversity & Inclusion | Miscellaneous
Sharing the history of the flags important holidays that are celebrated in June allows for a deeper understanding of what these important symbols mean. Knowing why they were created pays homage to those that lead the way for these celebrations.
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Miscellaneous | Reflections & Leadership
From certified nursing assistant (CNA) training to master’s degree funding, Presbyterian Senior Living strives to support nurses as they grow with the organization. Behind every exceptional nurse stands a commitment to continuous learning. The educational journey of a nurse extends far beyond the classroom, requiring a career-long dedication to acquiring knowledge. At Presbyterian Senior Living, supporting nurses and empowering them to enhance their skills so they can provide the highest quality care to residents are top priorities.
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Health & Aging | Miscellaneous
The month of May brings about warmer temperatures, fragrant flowers blooming, and the anticipation of summer. This month is recognized each year as National Arthritis Awareness Month. Arthritis is a disease that impacts more than 50 million Americans.
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Health & Aging | Miscellaneous
Spring is a season when many people set aside time to organize and deep clean their home. After a long winter, it can make the house feel fresh and bright once again. But spring cleaning does more than just make your home look better. There are proven benefits associated with decluttering, scrubbing, and vacuuming your house. Here are a few ways spring cleaning is good for your health: Helps to boost the spirit and improve focus Reduces stress and anxiety and brings peace Improves core strength which aids in fall prevention Identifies small maintenance issues before they become big problems
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Diversity & Inclusion | Health & Aging | Miscellaneous
We would like to begin this blog by celebrating Older Americans Month – Aging Unbound. Older Americans Month Every May we celebrate Older Americans Month as a way to recognize the achievements and contributions of seniors. There are currently more than 56 million Americans over the age of 65 and that number is expected to grow to to over 73 million by the year 2030. The Older Americans Month theme for 2023 is “Aging Unbound”; which offers an opportunity to explore an array of aging experiences without being boxed in by expectations and stereotypes. As many adults age, they remain engaged, independent and very included in their communities. This month was established in 1963, when at the time, there were only 17 million living Americans that reached their 65th birthday and there was a growing interest in older adults and their concerns.
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Health & Aging | Miscellaneous | Thrive Wellness
Longtime Cathedral Village resident Sarah West received this year’s honor for helping to improve the quality of life at her Philadelphia community. Investing time, displaying extraordinary dedication, and promoting the well-being of fellow community members — these were the key characteristics that the Presbyterian Senior Living team were looking for when choosing an individual to receive this year’s Altruism Award. They found those attributes and more in Sarah West, a resident at Cathedral Village, the senior independent-living community in Philadelphia.
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Health & Aging | Thrive Wellness
We have all been through some tough challenges over the past three years due to the Covid pandemic. We have lost friends, family members, and co-workers. We have missed gatherings, weddings, graduations, church and all long standing traditions that kept our relationships strong and kept our stories intertwined. The stress and loss of our normal routines at times still feels overwhelming. We wonder if we will ever get back to “normal”. Well, finding some humor and experiencing laughter could be two simple ways to help recover from the battle scars left behind from the loss we have all experienced the last three years.
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Health & Aging | Housing & Development | Miscellaneous
Moving to a senior living community in the spring can be an exciting and transformative experience. Spring is a time of renewal and new beginnings, making it the perfect season to start a new chapter in your life. Whether you are downsizing, looking for a change of scenery, or simply seeking a sense of community and belonging, senior living communities offer a wealth of benefits for seniors.
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Celebrate Diversity Month takes place in April every year. It was initiated in 2004 to recognize and honor the diversity of the world around us. It is a time to recognize and understand our differences, while honoring the common essence of humanity. By appreciating our similarities and differences, the month aims to get people to foster a deeper understanding of others. Diversity is crucial in assuring that we can understand each other in deeper ways that help keep us humble and open to the fact that the world does not only revolve around our beliefs. It can help develop us into better people, as it increases our understanding of human nature. The importance of diversity itself can benefit us in all aspects of our lives. At PSL our goal is to embrace diversity and welcome others. We want all who come into contact with our organization to feel a sense of belonging.
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Health & Aging | Thrive Wellness
March is known as National Nutrition Month and this year’s theme is “Fuel for the Future.” This can be interpreted in multiple ways. Over recent years dietitians have been fighting the negative stigma of being viewed as the “food police”. We have worked to change people’s attitudes about food as something to be feared or feel guilty about, to food being fuel and a celebration of our cultures. We educate and encourage because we want people to live not just longer, but healthier, longer lives as they age.
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Caregiver Support | Miscellaneous
Quality of life is a top priority for those who serve residents at Presbyterian Senior Living. March is Social Work Month, a time to celebrate those who help create and advocate for improved quality of life. At Presbyterian Senior Living, social workers play a vital role in uplifting seniors in every area of their lives.
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A good night’s rest can be hard to come by for many people, especially as we grow older. Research shows that up to 30% of the general population, and as much as 50% of seniors, suffer from insomnia. From a lack of exercise to sleep apnea, heart disease, and restless legs syndrome, there are a variety of reasons why so many of us just can’t sleep.
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March is the honorary observance of National Women’s History Month in the United States, as designated in 1987 by the U.S. Congress, in recognition of women’s many accomplishments throughout history. A variety of agencies, schools, and organizations observe the month by focusing on the “consistently overlooked and undervalued” role of American women in history. Libraries and communities promote special events that emphasize the achievements of women.
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If you are the caregiver for a family member, your days are likely busy with little time to spare. This is especially true if you work outside the home or are raising a family. According to the Family Caregiver Alliance, over 53 million people in this country held the role of the unpaid family caregiver in 2020. That translates to 21% of the population and an increase of 9.5 million people since 2015.
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Health & Aging | Thrive Wellness
February is American Heart Month and is a good time for anyone - especially seniors to reevaluate their cardiovascular health.
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Diversity & Inclusion | Miscellaneous
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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