Last year the U. S. Surgeon General issued a very important Surgeon General Advisory, Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation 2023. Unlike other advisories that touch on things like opioids, obesity, HIV/AIDS, and smoking for instance, this latest one is about the need for social connection.Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy wrote, Loneliness is the subjective feeling that youre lacking the social connections you need. It can feel like being stranded, abandoned, or cut off from the people with whom you belongeven if youre surrounded by other people. Whats missing when youre lonely is the feeling of closeness, trust, and the affection of genuine friends, loved ones, and community.He went on: Loneliness is far more than just a bad feeling, it harms both individual and societal health. It is associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety and premature death . . . And the harmful consequences of a society that lacks social connection can be felt in our schools, workplaces and civic organizations where performance, productivity and engagement are diminished.For aging adults, which is my focus, the lack of social connection and loneliness was brought to everyones attention during COVID when seniors and their families were isolated from each other. No one who had a mom or dad in senior living during that time will forget the anxiety around trying to connect with their loved one.The advisory focuses on cultivating a culture of connection, one that rests on the core values of kindness, respect, service and commitment to one another. And it offers practical recommendations on what different groups of people can do to advance social connections. All can be found on SurgeonGeneral.gov, but Im including here several recommendations aimed at individuals. Invest time in nurturing your relationships through consistent, frequent and high-quality engagement with others. Take time each day to reach out to a friend of family member. Minimize distraction during conversations to increase the quality of time you spend with others. For instance, dont check your phone during meals with friends, important conversations and family time. Seek out opportunities to serve and support others, either by helping your family, co-workers, friends or strangers in your community or by participating in community service. Be responsive, supportive and practice gratitude. As we practice these behaviors, others are more likely to reciprocate, strengthening our social bonds and improving relationship satisfaction. Actively engage with people of different backgrounds and experiences to expand your understanding of and relationships with others. Seek help during times of struggle with loneliness or isolation by reaching out to a family member, friend, counselor or healthcare provider. Participate in social and community groups. Of course, the last bullet is an absolute given in senior living communities like Saint Therese. We believe one of the most important benefits to older adults in our community be it independent, assisted, memory care or nursing home is the opportunity to make social connections and live well.

Welcome to A Call to Order Professional Organizer, where we understand the emotional toll that senior moves can take and specialize in providing expert solutions to transform chaos into calm. In this heartfelt guide, we'll explore the challenges seniors face when transitioning to new living arrangements and offer practical tips and guidance to make the process smoother and more peaceful. From decluttering and downsizing to coordinating logistics and settling into a new home, our team is here to support you every step of the way.The Emotional Journey of Senior MovesMoving can be a highly emotional experience, especially for seniors who may be leaving behind a lifetime of memories and attachments. The chaos of packing, sorting, and saying goodbye to cherished belongings can evoke feelings of stress, anxiety, and sadness. At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we recognize the emotional complexities of senior moves and are committed to providing compassionate support to our clients as they navigate this transition.Tips for Achieving Calm During Senior MovesStart Early and Plan Ahead: The key to a successful senior move is careful planning and preparation. Start the process as early as possible to give yourself plenty of time to sort through belongings, make decisions, and coordinate logistics. Create a detailed moving timeline and checklist to stay organized and on track, breaking down tasks into manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.Declutter with Compassion: Downsizing and decluttering are essential aspects of senior moves but can also be emotionally challenging. Approach this process with compassion and sensitivity, acknowledging the sentimental attachment that seniors may have to their belongings. Encourage them to keep items that hold special meaning or bring them joy while gently guiding them to let go of unnecessary clutter that may weigh them down in their new home.Enlist Professional Support: Moving can be physically demanding, especially for seniors who may have mobility issues or health concerns. Enlist the help of professional organizers who specialize in senior move management to assist with decluttering, packing, and coordinating logistics. A Call to Order Professional Organizer offers expert solutions tailored to your unique needs, providing compassionate support and practical assistance throughout the moving process.Create a Peaceful Moving Environment: Moving day can be chaotic, but with the right approach, it can also be a calm and peaceful experience. Set the tone for the day by creating a serene moving environment, with soft music, aromatherapy, and calming dcor. Encourage open communication and collaboration among family members and movers to ensure a smooth and stress-free moving process.Focus on Self-Care: Amidst the busyness of moving, it's essential to prioritize self-care and emotional well-being. Take breaks as needed to rest and recharge, and engage in activities that bring you comfort and relaxation. Lean on your support network for encouragement and reassurance, knowing that you are not alone in this journey.Embrace the Journey: Moving may be challenging, but it's also an opportunity for growth, renewal, and new beginnings. Embrace the journey of transition with an open heart and a positive mindset, focusing on the excitement and possibilities that lie ahead. Trust in your ability to adapt and thrive in your new environment, knowing that you have the support and resources you need to navigate this transition with grace and resilience.At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we understand the emotional complexities of senior moves and are committed to providing expert solutions to transform chaos into calm. Our compassionate team is here to support you every step of the way, offering practical guidance and emotional support to help you navigate this transition with grace and resilience. Let us be your partner in achieving a smooth and peaceful senior move, ensuring that you can embrace your new beginning with confidence and peace of mind.

Cory St. Aubin: A Beacon of Inspiration at HarborChase of PlanoCory St. Aubin, a distinguished figure at HarborChase of Plano, has recently been featured in the Plano Star Courier's "Plano Women of Inspiration" series. Known for her natural ability to encourage and inspire, Cory is passionate about seeing women thrive across various industries. Her dedication to the growth and well-being of the Plano community is rooted in her own upbringing and the impactful mentorship she received.A Legacy of EncouragementGrowing up in Plano, Cory was fortunate to be mentored by Emily Watson, a figure who profoundly influenced her approach to life and career. Emily challenged Cory not just to think outside the box, but to live outside it. This philosophy has become a cornerstone of Cory's professional and personal endeavors.Im a natural encourager and love seeing women thrive in their industry. I grew up in Plano and was blessed to have been mentored by Emily Watson, who challenged me to not just think outside the box but live outside the box, Cory shared in her interview with the Plano Star Courier.Fostering Growth in PlanoCorys career, which began in Plano, is marked by a continuous effort to build relationships and seize opportunities within the city. Her deep connection to the community has driven her to contribute significantly to its growth and well-being.When asked about her involvement in the Plano community, Cory emphasized the importance of authenticity and relationship-building. I advise women to keep it real and not take themselves too seriously. Create and nurture meaningful relationships that inspire women to excel, grow, and push the limits of success, she advised.Impactful Community EngagementOne of Corys notable contributions is her work with the Alzheimer's Association. Over the past few years, she has been instrumental in spreading awareness and education about Alzheimer's disease. A particularly memorable event was "Mapping the Journey," which brought together hundreds of people in Plano to foster education, awareness, and a sense of community around this critical issue.Seeing so many come together with one mission was significant, Cory reflected, highlighting the power of community collaboration.Inspiration and FaithCory credits her faith and the support of key individuals for her commitment to community service. As a woman of faith, I am thankful to the Lord for the gifts that he has placed in me and the open doors he has provided to continue to make an impact in my community, she expressed. Looking ForwardAs Cory looks to the future, she remains open to new adventures and opportunities to serve her community. Who knows what new adventure awaits me, but rest assured I will be ready, she said, embodying the spirit of a true Woman of Inspiration.Cory St. Aubins journey is a testament to the power of mentorship, faith, and community engagement. Her story continues to inspire many in Plano and beyond, as she remains dedicated to fostering growth, encouraging others, and making a lasting impact. For More Information on HarborChaseof Plano Click HERE.  Author: Kathleen Warshawsky, BSN, RN | Publisher, Seniors Blue Book Greater Dallas