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Winter can feel like “a month of Sundays” or “a clean page, waiting to be drawn on.” Either way, winter impacts all of us differently, some welcome the indoor warmth and time of reflection and some shudder at the thought of the colder, darker days ahead.
However, you experience winter and with the pandemic continuing to keep us masked and safer indoors, this is a good time to bring some “light” ideas to enhance your days and make your wintertime more meaningful or productive. Not only that, staying engaged helps keep the blues at bay, enhances your overall mood, keeps you connected and less isolated.
There are so many online options to choose from and here are a few suggestions that might inspire you to learn even more.
–Take up a new hobby. Perhaps you’ve wanted to learn how to knit or crochet. There are many beginner YouTube videos available online that show you step by step, such as this one.
–Learn how to make a new recipe such as Easy Fudgy Brownies from Scratch, click here.
–This is a good time to walk to the library and check out the newest books, use a computer or bring your own device and access Wi-Fi. Maybe pick out a book and start a book club with your friends. You can even meet on Zoom. Check out the Denver Public Library.
–Learn how to get your own Zoom account with this information.
–Take up a new stretch routine and keep your body fit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-XHlqzdK5hw
–Sign up for an activity though Kavod’s Life Enrichment department:
If you don’t have access to a computer, there are so many fun things to do and some of these ideas you might already have at your fingertips.
–Find a recipe book and try a new recipe
–Make your own greeting card and write a letter to brighten someone’s day
–Find a new puzzle or board game and invite a friend (and keep your mask on J)
–Make time to organize your drawers and closets then say goodbye to those items that served you well
–Take a walk with a friend
–Open your curtains, put on your favorite music and dance like no one is watching
–Watch a comedy on television and laugh out loud
–Contact Kavod’s Life Enrichment Department or Health and Wellness Department and sign up for a class or activity
Hopefully, as the days get shorter and the nights get longer, your new winter routine will be greeted with an attitude of “what can I do today?” Healthy anticipation is known to energize and motivate us. This powerful emotion can remind us that there are pleasurable rewards when we change our behaviors and do something that feels good and connects us. Winter just might become a season full of possibility.
Hot summer days are a good time for everyone to think about staying hydrated. For older adults the topic of hydration is a year-round discussion that never goes away. Its a serious issue for most seniors but doesnt get resolved because it needs to be addressed every day and cant be solved with a pill.Seniors have a very high risk for dehydration, which is one of the most frequent causes of hospitalization after the age of 65. They have a greater risk of dehydration for many reasons, including the fact that as we age, our kidneys become less efficient at conserving fluids, our sense of thirst weakens, and we are less able to adjust to changes in temperature. Some medications like diuretics, sedatives, and laxatives can also cause increased fluid loss.Dehydration can cause temporary symptoms that mimic symptoms of Alzheimers. If dementia-like symptoms seem to appear suddenly, it could be dehydration which is easily curable.Symptoms of dehydration range from minor to severe and include persistent fatigue, muscle weakness, headaches, dizziness, nausea, forgetfulness, confusion, lethargy, increased heart rate, sunken eyes, dry mouth, dark colored urine. Urine should be clear to pale yellow. I tell my clients that if their urine is darker than pale yellow, they should head straight to the kitchen from the bathroom and drink a full glass of water. Keeping a glass of water beside you all day to sip on rarely results in someone drinking enough fluids. Its more effective to drink the entire glass, even if its a small glass. Seniors cant rely on their sense of thirst to tell them when to drink water. Scheduling a glass at each meal and/or after a bathroom visit, making sure to drink the full glass, is the best way to make sure youve gotten your full daily amount.If you have any questions, please call us at 303-444-4040.
Isolation and loneliness are not new concepts to those who work in the field of aging. And, as a result of the COVID pandemic, almost everyone, regardless of age, experienced some form of isolation and loneliness. Many of us were separated from family, friends, and coworkers for so long that the isolation left a nearly permanent mark. As a senior service provider, Cultivate has seen, firsthand, the negative effects isolation has had on our senior clients. We have also seen the power of healing that the volunteers provide when they take time to build connections with our clients. According to the CDC, loneliness and social isolation in adults can lead to serious health conditions beyond the effect it has on mental health. The senior population has been disproportionately affected by isolation for years, and it is only in the aftermath of the pandemic that much of the population can begin to understand. Society saw a surge in volunteerism during the beginning of the pandemic because many people were struggling with the loneliness of quarantine while becoming very aware of the fact their neighbors needed help. However, that surge ended, and non-profits are finding a significant reduction in the number of new volunteers. Many forget that just because most of the population is no longer quarantined, this does not mean that the issues of isolation have disappeared. There are different ways that the community can get involved to help reduce isolation and loneliness in seniors. This work can start by reaching out to family, friends, and neighbors. You never know how much of an impact your time and words can have on someone. Volunteerism is also a good way to reach people who need the most help. Often the volunteers get as much out of their experience as those they are helping do. Whatever you choose, remember that we all know what it feels like to be lonely, and we all have the power to relieve the loneliness of others. Editors Note: This article was submitted by Carly Marquis. Carly is the Director of Volunteers with Cultivate and may be reached at 303-443-1933 or by email at cmarquis@cultivate.ngo.
Written by: Patti Chenis, WEC Team SupervisorContemplative Practices/ meditation/mindfulness are beneficial ways to strengthen our wellbeing, resilience, and develop a fuller capacity to recognize the healing power in ones heart to work with stress and difficult challenges.Mindfulness is knowing what you are doing as you are doing it. It is bringing awareness to your present moment lived experience. Bringing our attention to breathing is one of the most widely used objects of meditation and anchor for our attention. Continually coming back to the attention and awareness of our breath brings a sense of precision, (being in the present moment-connecting to our life force of breath) gentleness, (allowing whatever is arising e.g. thoughts, emotions, sensations to be as they are without judgement and returning to our awareness of breath) and openness ( being curious about the richness and fullness of our experience).Mindfulness can be developed as a formal practice on meditation cushion, chair, standing up, lying down or walking meditation. The point of meditation is to remember to bring mindfulness (that conscious awareness of being in our present lived experience) into daily life, so you could say any aspect our lives can be a mindfulness practice.Her are some thoughts about bringing mindfulness, loving kindness, self-compassion and compassion into daily life.Deep Conscious BreathsTaking some deep conscious breaths in the morning or whenever you feel stressed, anxious, overwhelmed or want a fresh restart in you daily life. Before you do something stress- full, step back and take some deep breaths; research shows deep breaths calm the nervous system.MovementWalking (especially getting out and enjoying nature), yoga, tai chi, qigong, dancing to your favorite music, laughter (full belly laughs can do wonders for the spirit-try it), singing your favorite song(s); crying (allow yourself to feel the release that crying can bring e.g. tears of sadness, joy) whatever gets your energy moving and flowing.Self-compassion and compassion practicesDispel the myths that self-compassion is selfish or that we are not worthy of love and wellbeing. Research show that offering words of loving kindness to oneself changes our brain and improves our resilience, strengthens our immune system and increases our capacity to be of benefit to others. When we feel resourced and have a sense of well-being our capacity to work with stress and difficult emotions is greater.Good morning Practice:Good morning (put your name here) I love you. You can repeat this in the morning or anytime during the day to interject some good will toward oneself or someone else in your life if it is difficult to say this about yourself at first.Compassion is not only feeling empathy and emotional connection to the suffering of others but also wanting to relieve that suffering. It is the courage to open our hearts to our own suffering as well as that of others and that we are all interconnected, in the same boat so to speak. We can offer words of care and loving kindness to ourselves, mentors (someone who has been kind to us) friends, strangers, difficult people, as well as to all beings as we open our heart of compassion to include all. May I and all beings have happiness, well-being, safety, health and live at ease and in harmony.
Kavod Senior Life is open and welcoming to all community members who qualify and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, or familial status. We have 358 HUD-subsidized apartments available to rent for individuals 62+ (head of household); other family members welcome . Our apartment sizes range between 373 (studio) and 590 square feet (large one bedroom).Residents are obligated to participate in a meal program, which includes six meals each week (dinner M-F and brunch on Sunday). A subsidy is available, exemptions are considered and SNAP benefits will be accepted soon.Rents are calculated based on an applicants total adjusted income.Rent pricing covers electric and water utilities. Applications are available through the website/in our main lobby open 24/7, or contact us to have one faxed, mailed or emailed. Language assistance is available for application completion. Currently there is a waitlist for our subsidized apartments; call to receive an estimate of our current wait time at 303.399.1146. On site amenities include activities, trips (to grocery stores and social outings), health classes and services, music, art, gardening, tech support, free wi fi, computer bank, library, active resident council and more.
Kavod Assisted Living offers private, one bedroom and studio apartments with basic pricing less than $50,000 a year! We only require a one-year spend down to Medicaid on most units. We also offer fee-based support with three additional services: escorts, incontinence care and oxygen management. Some of our highlights include being pet-friendly, having ALL activities included in our pricing, providing an on-site health & wellness center with rehab & geriatric doctors, and more. Our beautiful Cherry Creek location can't be beat! We've been in operation for over 50 years and serve individuals of every faith, background and tradition - you will love our welcoming atmosphere! We look forward to your calls, questions and visits.
Kavod Senior Life Independent Living Apartments, located in the vibrant Cherry Creek neighborhood of Denver, Colorado, offer an exceptional living experience for seniors seeking independence, comfort, and community. This esteemed senior living community combines modern amenities with a warm, welcoming environment, making it an ideal choice for active seniors who value their independence while enjoying access to a range of supportive services and engaging activities.Prime Location in Cherry CreekCherry Creek is one of Denver's most desirable neighborhoods, known for its upscale shopping, fine dining, and cultural attractions. Kavod Senior Life Independent Living Apartments benefit from this prime location, providing residents with easy access to the Cherry Creek Shopping Center, renowned restaurants, art galleries, and beautiful parks. The neighborhood's walkability and extensive public transportation options ensure that residents can explore Denver and its surroundings with ease.Comfortable and Modern Living SpacesKavod Senior Life Independent Living Apartments are designed to offer comfort, convenience, and style. The apartments come in various floor plans, including studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom options, catering to different lifestyle needs and preferences. Each apartment features modern amenities such as full kitchens with updated appliances, spacious living areas, ample storage, and private balconies or patios with picturesque views of the surrounding area.The apartments are also designed with seniors in mind, featuring safety enhancements like grab bars in bathrooms, emergency call systems, and easily accessible layouts to ensure a secure living environment. These thoughtful design elements enable residents to maintain their independence while having peace of mind.Community Amenities and ServicesKavod Senior Life Independent Living Apartments offer a wealth of amenities that promote a healthy, active, and social lifestyle. The on-site amenities include:Fitness Center: A well-equipped fitness center with senior-friendly exercise equipment and regular fitness classes to help residents stay active and healthy.Dining Services: An on-site dining room that serves nutritious and delicious meals, catering to various dietary needs and preferences.Library and Computer Center: A quiet and comfortable space for reading, as well as access to computers and the internet for staying connected with family and friends.Arts and Crafts Room: A dedicated space for creative activities, allowing residents to explore their artistic talents.Outdoor Spaces: Beautifully landscaped gardens, walking paths, and outdoor seating areas where residents can relax and enjoy the fresh air.Social and Recreational Activities: A robust calendar of events, including movie nights, game nights, holiday celebrations, and outings to local attractions, ensures there is always something fun and engaging to do.Health and Wellness ServicesAt Kavod Senior Life Independent Living Apartments, the well-being of residents is a top priority. The community offers a range of health and wellness services, including:On-Site Health Clinic: Access to healthcare professionals for routine check-ups, health screenings, and consultations.Wellness Programs: Regularly scheduled wellness programs and workshops on topics such as nutrition, exercise, and mental health.Transportation Services: Scheduled transportation for medical appointments, shopping trips, and other errands, making it easy for residents to access necessary services.A Strong Sense of CommunityOne of the standout features of Kavod Senior Life Independent Living Apartments is the strong sense of community that pervades the environment. The staff at Kavod Senior Life are dedicated to fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where residents feel valued and connected. Social events and activities are designed to bring people together, encouraging friendships and a sense of belonging.Residents can participate in a variety of clubs and interest groups, such as book clubs, gardening clubs, and volunteer opportunities, allowing them to pursue their passions and contribute to the community. The community also celebrates various cultural and religious events, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of its residents.Affordable and Flexible Living OptionsKavod Senior Life Independent Living Apartments strive to provide affordable living options for seniors. The community offers a range of pricing plans and financial assistance programs to accommodate different budgets and financial situations. This commitment to affordability ensures that more seniors can enjoy the high-quality living experience that Kavod Senior Life offers.Testimonials and Resident ExperiencesResidents and their families consistently praise Kavod Senior Life Independent Living Apartments for its excellent facilities, supportive staff, and vibrant community life. Testimonials often highlight the friendly atmosphere, the wide range of activities, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing that help is always available if needed.One resident shared, "Moving to Kavod Senior Life was the best decision I ever made. The community here is wonderful, and there's always something fun to do. I love my apartment, and the staff are like family."ConclusionKavod Senior Life Independent Living Apartments in Cherry Creek, Denver, Colorado, offer an exceptional living environment for seniors seeking a balance of independence and community support. With its prime location, modern living spaces, extensive amenities, and commitment to health and wellness, Kavod Senior Life provides an enriching and fulfilling lifestyle for its residents. Whether you're looking for a vibrant social life, access to top-notch healthcare, or simply a comfortable and secure place to call home, Kavod Senior Life Independent Living Apartments are an excellent choice for seniors in Denver.