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Chef Michael Bokosky, the National Director of Culinary Operations at Grand Living, brings over 25 years of unparalleled experience to the table. His journey began in Baltimore, MD, where he attended culinary school at age 20. His career, spanning fine dining, hotels, and senior living communities, has been marked by a relentless pursuit of culinary excellence.
“I really like the idea of nature being the star in ingredients and it’s a chef’s responsibility not to mess them up. I also like grilling and smoking because they are such primal forms of culinary,” says Chef Michael. His philosophy is evident in every dish served at Grand Living, where fresh herbs, locally sourced ingredients, and creative menus make every meal a unique experience.
Each executive chef at Grand Living brings his/her unique flair and dedication to the culinary program. Their daily responsibilities and perspectives offer a glimpse into the heart of what makes dining at Grand Living so exceptional. Each chef’s unwavering dedication to excellence guarantees a fulfilling dining experience for every resident and guest, including those with special dietary needs. Here are some of our talented executive chefs.
Chef Austina’s culinary journey began after graduating from Kirkwood College, where she quickly rose through the ranks at the Crown Plaza in Cedar Rapids from a prep cook to a chef. Her career then took her to Aramark at Rockwell Collins and later to Bon Appetit at Cornell College in Mt. Vernon. In 2018, she brought her extensive experience and passion for cooking to Grand Living at Bridgewater as the Executive Chef.
Chef Austina starts her day by greeting her staff and ensuring everyone is comfortable with their roles. Her duties range from administrative tasks to being on the line, prepping menus, and checking inventory. “The relationships we can build with the residents, their families, and fellow staff throughout our time at Grand Living is the best part of the job. It is a gift,” says Chef Austina. Her ability to tailor the culinary experience to the needs of the residents, combined with her deep sense of community, makes her an invaluable part of the team.
With over twenty years in senior living and healthcare, Chef Rick has cultivated a diverse and impactful career. His path to success included roles such as District Manager for Dining in Healthcare, managing 19 properties, and Senior Food and Beverage Director in high-end senior living, where he served as a national trainer for executive chefs. His extensive experience includes managing large, complex operations in Oklahoma City, and serving as the executive and regional chefs for senior living and hospitals across the Northeastern US. Additionally, Chef Rick has honed his skills at two popular French fine dining restaurants and the Saratoga Racecourse.
At Grand Living at Georgetown, Chef Rick begins his day by greeting residents, staff and preparing for the day’s services. His tasks include menu development, food ordering, and overseeing dinner service. “The best part of the job is that the company’s foundation, vision, and principles are all in line with my values,” says Chef Rick. His commitment to quality and presentation ensures that every meal is a delightful experience for the residents, making him an integral part of the Grand Living community.
Chef Tim graduated from Johnson & Wales University in Charleston, South Carolina. He spent 14 years in the hotel business, working for two different 4-star hotels before transitioning to senior care. After 17 years at a local Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), he joined Grand Living, bringing his experience and talent to creating exceptional dining experiences.
At Grand Living at Lakewood Ranch, no two days are the same for Chef Tim. His responsibilities range from menu planning and placing orders to prepping for the line. “The best part of my job is the residents. It is a privilege to cook, craft, and create menus for them,” he shares. Chef Tim’s creativity shines during holidays and special events, where he delights residents with ice carvings, seafood feasts, and elaborate themed dinners.
Chef Scott, a Michigan native, has built an impressive culinary career after attending Michigan State University and graduating with honors from The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. His expertise has been honed at exclusive resorts, hotels, and private clubs across the U.S. Beyond his culinary ventures, he has contributed to the field as a Culinary Instructor and Program Director at First Coast Technical College in St. Augustine. He works closely with The American Culinary Federation as an Approved Certification Evaluator and an Accreditation Site Evaluator for secondary and post-secondary culinary programs in the U.S. He has also competed in and coached teams to win numerous culinary competitions.
For Chef Scott, a typical day at Grand Living at Tamaya begins at 4:30 am, with him arriving by 5:30 am to start his work. Chef Scott has experience in all stations and meal periods, emphasizing the importance of training both new and senior staff. “In between monitoring food production and presentation, my daily duties include menu development, purchasing, monitoring spend-down budget, always cleaning, general kitchen maintenance and organization,” shares Chef Scott. “Working with all our culinary staff with the direction of pleasing our residents in all aspects of hospitality, and supporting our staff to go above and beyond are the best parts of what I do.” Chef Scott’s dedication to training and excellence, combined with his versatility in the kitchen, makes him a cornerstone of the culinary team at Tamaya.
Aside from our exemplary culinary team, each Grand Living senior living community boasts three unique dining venues: casual, bistro, and formal dining. This variety enhances the dining experience, offering residents the choice of a relaxed meal, a vibrant bistro atmosphere, or an elegant formal dining experience. These venues are designed to cater to diverse tastes and preferences, ensuring that every meal is a memorable one. We even have a private dining room for those special moments and occasions a resident can celebrate with friends and family.
Grand Living’s IN GRAND TASTE® program is more than a dining service; it’s a culinary journey led by passionate chefs dedicated to excellence. Under Chef Michael Bokosky’s expert guidance, the chefs create a dining experience that is as varied and delightful as the residents they serve. With every meal, Grand Living reaffirms its commitment to providing FIRST CLASS HAPPINESS® that resonates with love and creativity.
You can find out more about these creative masterpieces, our luxury amenities, and the sophisticated lifestyle at Grand Living by signing up for an exclusive tour of any of our communities.
Eye health is vital for seniors, as poor vision can greatly impact their quality of life. Proper nutrition plays a significant role in maintaining eye healthbut it's not just a matter of eating your carrots! Instead, there are several key things for caregivers to keep in mind when preparing meals for senior loved ones.Nutrients Essential for Eye HealthCertain nutrients are necessary for maintaining good eye health. Vitamins and MineralsKey vitamins and minerals can help keep your eyes in good shape.Vitamin A: Promotes good vision and supports the health of the cornea.Vitamin C: Helps protect the eyes against damage from free radicals.Vitamin E: Prevents age-related macular degeneration.Zinc: Supports the health of the retina and might delay progressive loss of vision.A varied diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables can help get in these essential nutrients. Omega-3 Fatty AcidsOmega-3 fatty acids, found in fish like salmon, help reduce the risk of dry eye syndrome and can also lower the risk of age-related macular degeneration.Easy-to-Prepare Eye-Healthy RecipesThere are plenty of recipes that can help seniors get the nutrients they need to maintain eye health. Spinach and Egg ScrambleIngredients:2 eggsHandful of fresh spinach1 small tomato, dicedSalt and pepper to tasteInstructions: Whisk the eggs in a bowl.Heat a nonstick pan and add the spinach and tomato.Pour the eggs into the pan and scramble until fully cooked.Season with salt and pepper.Berry and Yogurt ParfaitIngredients:1 cup of plain yogurt1/2 cup mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)1 tablespoon honey1/4 cup granolaInstructions:Layer the yogurt, berries, and granola in a glass or bowl.Drizzle with honey.Serve immediately.Salmon and Avocado SaladIngredients:1 salmon fillet, grilled1 avocado, slicedMixed greensLemon vinaigretteInstructions:Place mixed greens on a plate.Add grilled salmon and avocado slices.Drizzle with lemon vinaigrette.Quinoa-Stuffed Bell PeppersIngredients:4 bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed1 cup cooked quinoa1 tomato, diced1 cup black beans1 teaspoon cuminInstructions:Preheat oven to 375F.Mix quinoa, tomato, black beans, and cumin.Stuff the peppers with the mixture.Bake for 30 minutes.Tips for Batch Cooking and Meal PlanningBatch cooking saves time and ensures that you always have a healthy meal ready to go. It's especially useful for seniors who may not feel like cooking every day. Meal planning and prep help streamline the process of preparing meals and ensure that you have all the ingredients you need for healthy meals and a plan in place for getting them on the table.Involving Seniors in Meal PreparationInvolving seniors in meal preparation can make them feel more engaged and independent. It's also a great way to spend quality time together. Keep the kitchen safe by keeping it well-lit and organized. Ensure that countertops are clutter-free and that essential tools are within easy reach.Get Help with Meal Planning, Prep, and More For SeniorsMaintaining eye health is crucial for seniors and can be easily managed with the right nutrition. Batch cooking and meal planning make it easier to stick to these healthy eating habits.Do you need more help caring for a senior loved one? For personalized senior care services in in Fort Collins, Englewood, Littleton, Lone Tree, and Longmont, contact Senior Helpers Fort Collins.
Being mindful of our dietary choices can result in improved cognitive health and emotional stability. The food we consume significantly contributes to these aspects, helping us to feel better, think clearer, and reduce stress levels. Senior Helpers Overland Park will explore the wonderful world of nutrition and its impact on our brain and emotional health. We've compiled a list of brain-healthy and stress-relieving foods that are beneficial for everyonefrom seniors looking to boost their cognitive abilities to caregivers needing a little help managing stress.Nutrition and Brain HealthCertain nutrients help to enhance memory and cognition and delay brain aging. This is particularly beneficial for seniors, who are often at risk of cognitive decline. Seniors can stimulate brain function and maintain their mental health by incorporating brain-friendly foods in their diet.Nutrition and Stress ManagementJust as foods can boost your brain health, they can also aid in managing stress levels. The body's response to stress can be intensified by inadequate nutrition. A well-balanced diet can promote resilience towards stress and foster feelings of well-being. Caregivers, who often face high stress levels due to their demanding roles, can greatly benefit from this aspect of nutrition.In the same vein, good nutrition can be pivotal in mood regulation. What we eat can impact our brain structure, brain chemistry, and, subsequently, our emotions. Foods rich in certain vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids can help regulate our emotions and reduce the risk of mood disorders. This is significant for everyone, seniors and caregivers alike.Fuel Your Mind and Mood With These FoodsHere are 6 brain-healthy and stress-relieving foods to add to your grocery list:BlueberriesDon't underestimate the power of these tiny fruits! Blueberries are bursting with antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber. These nutrients work together to delay brain aging, improve memory, and protect your brain cells from damage.Dark ChocolateCraving a sweet treat? Look no further than dark chocolate! This delicious indulgence contains flavonoids, caffeine, and antioxidants. These components not only benefit your brain health but also possess mood-boosting properties, making it a great stress reliever in moderation.BroccoliThis versatile vegetable is a powerhouse of nutrients for your brain. Packed with antioxidants and vitamin K, broccoli is believed to support cognitive function and promote brain health.Pumpkin SeedsThese tiny nutritional powerhouses are a fantastic source of brain-friendly nutrients. Pumpkin seeds are rich in antioxidants, magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper. These minerals are essential for maintaining cognitive function and overall well-being.TurmericThis vibrant spice has gained popularity for its numerous health benefits. The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, boasts impressive brain-protective properties. Curcumin can cross the blood-brain barrier and enhance the brain's oxygen intake, keeping you alert and focused.OrangesAs a rich source of vitamin C, oranges are a champion for brain health. Vitamin C plays a vital role in protecting against mental decline and improving overall cognitive function.Adding these brain-boosting and stress-relieving foods to your diet is simple and enjoyable! Explore different ways to incorporate them into your meals and snacks. For instance, sprinkle blueberries and oranges over your morning cereal or yogurt. Enjoy dark chocolate squares in moderation as a delightful treat. Turmeric can be added to soups, stews, or even teas for a subtle flavor boost. Roasted pumpkin seeds are a delicious and healthy snack, and broccoli can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes, from salads to stir-fries. Remember, a balanced diet rich in these power foods nourishes your body, mind, and emotional well-being.Senior Helpers Offers Nutrition Assistance and SupportNutrition is crucial in maintaining our overall health, particularly brain health and emotional stability. By making conscious dietary choices, we can manage our stress levels, enhance cognitive health, and regulate our emotions. Whether you are a senior aiming to boost brain function or a caregiver looking for stress management strategies, incorporating these brain-healthy and stress-relieving foods into your diet can be a game-changer.For those in Overland Park, Olathe, Johnson County, and Prairie Village needing assistance with senior care, a healthy diet, or stress management, contact us at Senior Helpers Overland Park. We proudly provide premium senior care services!
Note: this is not medical advice and should not replace a discussion with your own treating physician. This document was created after compiling helpful over the counter and home remedies from patients and colleagues. Winter is a beautiful time of the year, but it also brings along various illnesses. With the constant change in temperature and dry air, it's easy to catch a cold or flu. However, being sick doesn't have to be miserable. Here are some tips to help you through your winter sickness. First off, make sure you are getting enough rest. Your body needs time to fight off the illness, so getting plenty of sleep is essential. Drinking lots of fluids is also crucial to staying hydrated. Warm liquids such as tea or soup can help soothe your throat and loosen congestion. Second, take over-the-counter medication to relieve your symptoms. Decongestants can help relieve nasal congestion, and pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and body aches. However, be sure to read the instructions carefully and consult with a doctor if you have any doubts. Lastly, try to avoid spreading your illness to others. Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and wash your hands frequently with soap and water. Stay home if you're feeling unwell to prevent spreading the illness to others, and mask up if you need to leave the house. Reminder that we are fortunate enough to have vaccinations against flu, COVID and RSV which cause significant respiratory illness. In conclusion, being sick during the winter can be tough, but with plenty of rest, hydration, and medication, you can make it through. Ive gathered up some of the most common remedies used by myself, my patients, and my followers on social media and shared them below. Remember to take care of yourself and stay warm during the chilly winter weather.STRAIGHT OFF THE SHELFNote: if you take other medications, its important to talk with your physician or pharmacist about how these over the counter meds may interact with your prescribed meds Cough Vicks Vapo Rub on the chest and bottoms of feet Coricidin (good for those with cough and high blood pressure) Delsym Cough Medicine: dextromethorphan containing cough meds help with cough suppression, for dry coughs Zarbees for kids: these come in a daytime and nighttime forms to help with sleep (chamomile) Mucinex: guaifenesin containing meds help to loosen up mucus in your though to help you cough it up, for wet coughs Sudafed: pseudoephedrine is a decongestant and can make you pretty wired/awake. caution if you have high blood pressure Dimetapp for kiddos 6 and older Congestion/sore throat Afrin nasal spray: temporary congestion relief Flonase nasal spray: great for post nasal drip that causes sore throat Saline nasal rinses General cold/flu symptoms Dayquil/Nyquil: remember, these contain acetaminophen aka Tylenol. so dont mix with additional tylenol unless instructed by your physicianKnow your meds! acetaminophen is also known as Tylenol; ibuprofen is also known as Motrin and is the same class of medications as naproxen aka Aleve HOME/HERBAL REMEDIESNote: if you take other medications, its important to talk with your physician or pharmacist about how these remedies may interact with your prescribed meds Nin Jiom Pei Pa Koa-Chinese herbal throat and cough syrup Green tea Ginger tea Boom boom inhaler stickLemon, honey, and chamomile tea Sleep Epsom salts baths Oscillococcinum Black elderberry syrup Raw garlic with honey Mullein tincture Electrolyte rich drinks like liquid IV, LMNT, pedialyte-- monitor sugar content Fermented foods Reishi Ashwaghanda Foods high in vitamin C (citrus!)SOOTHING TEA RECIPEIn a saucepan, bring the following to a boil, then remove from heat and enjoy:8 ox water1 T apple cider vinegar1 T honey1 cinnamon stick1 clove of peeled and smashed garlicsmall piece of peeled gingerTIPS & TRICKS FROM A PCPafter a viral infection, cough can last 4-6 weeks in some cases. if you have fever with the cough or its getting worse, talk with your doctor as it could indicate a bacterial infection never underestimate the power of sleep and resting your body a fever is technically a temperature over 100.4 degrees F the symptoms of COVID, flu, and RSV overlap significantly. getting tested for these infections may be helpful in determining if you need further intervention your gut health is key to your immune system. you may not be able to fully prevent getting sick, but a healthy mind and body will help you with resilience and recovery. focusing on fiber, mindfulness, sleep and regular exercise can help your gut stay strong! most viral infections last about 5-7 days. but if you are experiencing shortness of breath, chest pain, high fevers, difficulty swallowing, dizziness, or wheezing, contact your physician immediately ask your doctor for their recommendation on checking your childs temperature. they may want you to use a rectal thermometer depending on age