For more information about the author, click to view their website: CC Young Senior Living
by Brian Parman, Director of The Point and Pavilion
As we stand on the precipice of a new year, let us embrace the mantra of “Go for the Gold in 2024” with renewed vigor and determination. Age is but a number, and for mature adults aged 55 or better, the golden years are an opportunity to shine brighter than ever before.
In the race of life, the gold we seek isn’t just a tangible medal but the fulfillment of our dreams, the realization of our passions, and the joy found in everyday victories. The year 2024 holds the promise of untapped potential, where the wisdom gained over the years converges with the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.
Each day is a chance to redefine what it means to be golden. It’s a time to set audacious goals and pursue them with the tenacity of a champion. Whether it’s a long-held aspiration, a career shift, or a personal milestone, let no dream be too grand, for the golden age is the perfect canvas to paint the masterpiece of your life.
Consider the wealth of experiences you’ve accumulated, the lessons learned, and the resilience forged through challenges. These are the tools that will propel you forward in the pursuit of your goals. Embrace the idea that, like fine wine, life only gets better with time, and you are at the peak of your vintage.
In 2024, let passion be your compass. What sets your heart on fire? What dreams have you deferred for too long? Now is the time to fan those flames, to rediscover the zeal that may have dimmed over the years. The pursuit of your passions is the true gold, enriching your life and leaving a legacy for generations to come.
Connect with the community around you; share your stories, mentor the younger generation, and foster relationships that add warmth to your golden years. In these connections, you’ll find strength, inspiration, and the shared joy of pursuing dreams together.
Remember, age is not a barrier; it is a badge of honor. It signifies a life well-lived, a journey filled with resilience, growth, and triumphs. As you step into 2024, carry this badge proudly and let it be a testament to the richness of your experiences and the potential that still lies within.
So, go for the gold in 2024 with a heart full of ambition, a mind open to possibilities, and a spirit unyielding in its pursuit of dreams. The stage is set for you to shine, to savor the golden moments, and to create a legacy that will glisten for generations to come. Embrace the journey, savor the victories, and let the golden age be your most radiant chapter yet.
Join my friend Donna Collins and me at The Point Auditorium at 3:00pm on Wednesday, January 24, for hands-on Vision Board Workshop for 2024. We will guide you in creating a visual representation of your dreams and aspirations.
A vision board is a powerful tool that helps you define and manifest your dreams by visually articulating your goals. It serves as a daily reminder, aligning your intentions with your actions and propelling you toward the fulfillment of your aspirations. Together, let’s craft a vision for the year ahead that inspires and propels you to new heights.
Situated on the border of Hopkins and Minnetonka, in Minnesota is the Homestead Assisted Living Communitya place that offers seniors an inviting atmosphere along with top notch care and security they seek in their golden years. Run by Volunteers of America National Services Elder Homestead stands out as a choice for living and memory care options, in the region. "A Lovely House, with Contemporary Maintenance" The architecture, at Elder Homestead exudes a feel inspired by 19th century farmhouses. With parlors and spacious gathering areas for residents to relish alongside the privacy of well thought out apartments designed with care in mind. For individuals requiring memory care support services there is a neighborhood that provides safety and individualized attention. At Homestead's core is its dedication to care for each individual residents' needs and preferences in mind. Residents work together with the staff and doctors to develop tailored health and wellness programs. The caregiving team is specially trained to cater to the needs of citizens by offering compassionate, in home personal assistance with a focus, on understanding and empathy. Adding value to peoples lives on a basis. The core belief, at Elder Homestead is straightforward. To treat each resident with dignity and respect to how one would treat a family member. This ethos is reflected in the way they provide care every day; ensuring that residents needs are not just met but that they also experience happiness and meaning, in their routines. Elder Homestead goes above and, beyond offering services they also enhance the residents lives with initiatives, like Bluebirds and Blooms that bring joy to the community through interactive activities. Their upcoming schedule features a Caretaker Support Circle where families and caregivers can come together to exchange stories and seek advice. Heartfelt Memory CareElder Homestead provides an caring environment, for families looking for memory care services where residents can flourish and thrive happily together. The dedicated memory care team creates programs and schedules tailored to the needs of those dealing with Alzheimers or other cognitive difficulties to maintain their dignity and enhance their quality of life. Explore Elder Homestead.Nestled in Minnetonka at 11400 Fourth Street North sits Homesteadan inviting community welcoming families and potential residents to immerse themselves in its embrace firsthand. Encompassed by a blend of care and skilled professionals, amidst an atmosphere Elder Homestead offers seniors a haven where they can genuinely belong and feel at ease. To get details or arrange a visitation appointment, at Elder Homesteads facilities, in Minnesota please reach out to Yvonne Cariveau, the Director of Marketing, by calling (952) 283 2626 or sending an email to ElderHomesteadInfo @ voa.org. Explore the caring atmosphere of living at Elder Homestead.
Volunteers of America National Services (VOANS) is dedicated to ensuring seniors and veterans well being by offering secure and reasonably priced housing options in regions of the United States for individuals, with disabilities and families well. National Services is responsible for coordinating the planning and maintenance of VOA housing projects as the supporter and overseeing body behind them. With a presence in 40 states and Puerto Rico the organization supervises than 240 properties hosting 12 900 affordable housing units that aim to promote self sufficiency respect and a sense of community, among residents. Strategic Housing DevelopmentVOANS is actively working to grow and secure housing in areas where there is a need for it identified in communities. They are particularly focused on providing housing, for veterans by not only offering housing but also providing them with essential services tailored to help them reintegrate and achieve independence. Moreover, VOANS is dedicated to safeguard supported housing that is facing the risk of being lost to ensure that communities, in need have long term stability and affordability. Senior AccommodationVOANS provides housing options tailored for individuals to lead lives as they grow older in their own familiar settings. They have created living spaces that foster well being, through a range of services such as healthcare access and social engagements. These initiatives aim to help seniors sustain a fulfilling life and stay connected, within their neighborhoods. Shelter for Military VeteransVOANS is committed to making sure that each veteran has an nurturing space they can consider home home.VOA offers a variety of housing options, for veterans that span from cozy studio apartments to four bedroom townhomes for both individual veterans and those with families, in tow. These properties also provide an array of support services including healthcare facilities,counseling sessions and personalized case management that are designed to cater to the needs of veterans and enhance their welfare. Family HousingVOANS assists families with incomes by offering accommodations and communal areas that promote family development and stability.The organization guarantees that these homes are cost effective and provides amenities, like daycare services,career development programs and educational opportunities. This enables both parents and children to establish successful lifestyles. Living accommodations, for individuals, with disabilities. The concept driving the housing, for individuals with disabilities at VOANS emphasizes freedom and dignity.This living space is tailored to adapt to the changing needs of residents while offering services such as care and transportation as well, as social engagements to support residents in living autonomously. An Account of Influence An illustration of the influence VOANS has, on communities is showcased through Sandras story in Snow Hill, in Maryland. As a musician and dedicated member of the community Sandra epitomizes the essence of VOANS' mission. Fostering inclusive communities that empower every resident to flourish. For information, on Volunteers of America National Services please visit www.voa.org.
If remaining independent as you age is a goal, or you have a loved one who wants to continue living independently, there are several essential skills to consider. From managing money to doing your own laundry, activities of daily living (ADLs) matter when determining if it is safe to live on your own as an older adult. In 2020, approximately 14.7 million older adults lived alone, or 28% of the population; many of them were lonely or in poor health. While it is not always easy to control those factors, there are things you can do to help age better and more comfortably. By being prepared, you will reduce some of your health risks and may be able to stay independent and content with life well into your later years. Here are nine critical, independent living skills you will need and valuable information on when assisted living or a similar care option may be a better choice. Money Management One of the most important independent living skills is money management. Anyone, from young adults to seniors, who want to live independently should be able to manage their funds. This can include the ability to pay bills, go grocery shopping, and handle personal care purchases regularly. Nutrition and Cooking Many seniors who struggle to live independently do not eat well, which can lead to increased health problems and medical care costs. With the right preparation, you can have the knowledge and ability to prepare healthier meals.Fitness and Movement Ability Staying active is another essential independent living skill. Staying active, whether or not you have disabilities to work around, is vital and can reduce your risk of injury. Strength training and movement practice, such as yoga, will help maintain strength, keeping you from losing balance and falling. Willingness and Ability to Adapt Families need to help aging members where possible, but not everyone has family nearby to teach them about technology updates or other helpful improvements. Being willing to adapt and learn will help with any new transitions that occur in the future. For example, you may want a part-time job or return to school to keep your mind sharp and stay active and engaged in your community. Effective Communication Communicating effectively is vital in every stage of life, and as a senior, you need to not be afraid to speak up for yourself. Whether you need help with your budget, have a problem with your teeth, or recognize that you are having trouble doing something you used to do easily, you must be able to communicate well so others can help you when you need it. Self-Advocacy for Security Along with good general communication, its valuable for you to be your own advocate. You know your body best, so work with your doctor if you notice a change and take advantage of any resources offered to you. When you prepare for aging and focus on the transition, you can often develop independent living skills more quickly. Stress Management and Regulation Controlling stress is a valuable skill at any age because stress can hurt your health. Older adults who struggle the most with independent living tend not to have ways of regulating their stress and emotions. If you have a job you like, hobbies to enjoy, or other ways to keep stress at bay, it will go a long way to keep you happy and healthy. Self-Esteem or Contentment Feeling content in life or comfortable with yourself matters, too, because independent living requires good mental health. If you are anxious or depressed, it can be a lot harder to get through the day all by yourself. Personal care may suffer, tasks will not get done, and your budget could suffer, too. Transportation Skills Whether you drive a car or use public transportation, the goal is to ensure you have access to the people and services you need to get around. If you start to notice differences in your vision and cannot drive anymore, for example, you want to make sure you have other people or agencies you can contact to help you get around. Top 3 Reasons to Consider Caregivers or Assisted Living If you or a loved one lacks the independent living skills needed to age-in-place, or remain safely and independently at home, it may be time to consider help. This could include ongoing assistance with specific tasks, options to manage medical care, and even help with laundry, hygiene, or picking out and putting on clothes. When older adults struggle with food, basic activities of daily living, or other issues, it is essential to identify the problem and find the right ways to treat it. Whether that is someone who comes into your home and provides in-home care or you are considering a move to an assisted living community, making the right choice can improve your quality of life. Here are three reasons to consider an alternate option to independent living: Falling or Frequent Injuries Falling can cause significant injuries, and that is especially true in seniors. If you are starting to fall frequently or have other injuries that happen often, it may be time to find additional help and someone who can perform various tasks, such as making meals and keeping your home clean. Falls and injuries could also mean the need to transition to assisted living, so you do not have to worry about taking care of your house. Challenges With Hygiene, Food, and Care Eating, showering, and cleaning are essential ADLs, and when you start facing many difficulties in one or more of these areas, it is time for some help. Fortunately, there are resources for older adults who may need a service to come in, so you are getting healthy food and staying clean. Memory or Financial Concerns If you begin having trouble remembering things and struggling to manage bills, it may be time to reach out for support. Many seniors are also vulnerable to financial scams, which can cause serious problems for future security. Its not always easy to see your needs in these areasor admit the needbut assessing your life routinely and looking for areas that might put you at risk is essential. The Support You Need for Living Independently If you or a loved one wants to continue living independently but may need a little extra help, CarePatrol offers senior care advisory services at no cost to you. We provide senior care solutions to help you find the right community from the option to maintain independent living to the need for additional services at home or in a care community, were here to give you the information and support you need. Reach out to a local senior care advisor today.
Our five-star CMS rated community is comprised of caring experts who help you or your loved one live life to the fullest. We invite you to visit The Vista and our Skilled Nursing, Long-Term Care, Respite, and Rehabilitation/Aquatics Center.
We are dedicated to enriching the lives of living with Alzheimers disease and other forms of dementia. Our team members are specially trained to empower residents to live as independently as possible. As a proud MUSIC & MEMORY Certified Care Organization, this important music program helps residents to reconnect with friends and family. Call for more information and schedule a time to visit The Vista and our Assisted Living Memory Support community.
Helping You Gain Strength & Confidence - Do you need healthcare as prescribed by your doctor after receiving a diagnosis, or after surgery, rehab or stroke? Our Home Healthcare offers skilled services - all delivered by our compassionate and experienced team. We offer Home Healthcare wherever a senior calls home.