Harmony at Diamond Ridge

As our loved ones grow older, the physical and mental benefits of companionship become more important than ever. It isnt a surprise that isolation and loneliness can lead to negative effects on one's health and that the positive impacts of staying social for seniors is significant. Companionship for seniors prevents cognitive decline and provides helpful support during their retirement years so they do not feel alone. The dawning of a new year is a busy time for everyone between new resolutions, designating new priorities, and all of the fun activities that tend to keep us preoccupied. With all of these exciting distractions, it is important to remember your senior loved ones and provide them the companionship they need to stay mentally and socially engaged. Here are some cognitive and emotional benefits of senior companionship that will make your loved one live a happier life during their golden years!Enjoy a longer, healthier lifeBeing around family and friends helps seniors feel connected as they continue to age and prevents the negative physical and emotional effects of social isolation. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) points out that more than one-third of adults aged 45 and older feel lonely, and nearly one-fourth of adults aged 65 and older are considered to be socially isolated. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, social isolation was associated with about 50% increased risk of dementia and other serious medical conditions. Senior living communities like Harmony Senior Services, allow senior residents to have the positive social aspect with associates, fellow residents, and visiting family and friends. Having that daily companionship in several different forms can prolong and enhance an individual's aging timeline.Creating weekly routinesRoutine companionship helps seniors consistently engage in social activities in their environment. Maintaining routines can create healthy patterns with events and responsibilities for seniors to plan and look forward to. Routines are known to change during the transition into a new year and can be confusing for seniors. It is important to establish new routines and activities that are focused on their interests! The more events a senior has on their social calendar with other residents or family, the more they will feel connected to their community. At Harmony Senior Services, senior residents have a full calendar of activities to keep them busy and build relationships with other residents. Staying safe in your spaceAs we age, the risk of falls, missed medications, lack of proper diet, and depression increase. More accidents and emergencies will start to arise and it is important for seniors to be safe in their home. In a senior living community, the benefits of companionship and daily support provide solutions to the risks of living alone and potentially needing additional assistance when scheduled in-home care may not be available. With Harmony Senior Services continuum of care, seniors are provided with care options that cater to their changing needs. Sense of belonging Senior living communities provide a sense of belonging and community that often get lost when seniors become isolated in their home. Harmony Senior Services is designed to connect residents with social interactions and a variety of group activities throughout the day. There are plenty of shared social spaces such as movie theaters, exercise areas, and activity rooms for friendships to grow. Residents can make new friends at a planned community event, during mealtime in the dining room, or outside on a relaxing walk. Seniors who live in assisted living communities do not have to feel isolated or alone!There are plenty of opportunities for companionship at Harmony Senior Services. If your senior loved one is feeling isolated and needs help in this next transition of life, Harmony is here for you. Start the new year right with Harmony Senior Services and contact us today to learn more.Sources:https://www.cdc.gov/aging/publications/features/lonely-older-adults.htmlhttps://nap.nationalacademies.org/catalog/25663/social-isolation-and-loneliness-in-older-adults-opportunities-for-the

The journey of aging looks different on everyone. People worldwide are living longer thanks to modern solutions that werent provided years ago. While we all dread the wrinkles and joint pains that are doomed to come, theres a myriad of preventative steps we can take in the journey to aging well. Aging gracefully is possible for everyone and you can approach it in whatever way is best for you. It is the time to embrace your golden years while making sure you have the physical and mental health to enjoy it all. Remember, beauty is not just about your physical appearance, but even more so about how you feel. So invest in your wellness both inside and out!Stay Active It is important to exercise regularly to lower your risk of disease as you continue to age. A little bit of movement each day goes a long way and will also help lower stress, improve sleep, and benefit your skin and bone health. The four types of exercises that you should do as you age are activities focused on aerobic, flexibility, strength, and balance according to the National Institute of Aging. By rotating through these fitness focuses, youll be able to stay active and independent for longer. Aerobic activity is very important for older adults to help burn off calories, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, maintain joint movement, and improve heart health. Some examples of aerobic exercises for seniors that are low impact are walking, stationary cycling, chair yoga, and swimming. Upgrade your Skincare RoutineIt is no secret that our skin changes as we age and the same skincare routine that we did twenty years ago might not get the job done like it used to. While we cant prevent our skin from aging, we can protect it against the effects of the environment through an effective skincare routine. There are so many new products out on the market specific for aging skin that can help you through your journey of aging well.Here are some smart beauty tips for seniors:Protect your skin from the sun: The sun's harmful rays can cause skin damage, age spots, and wrinkles. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, wear sun protective clothing, and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. Even on cloudy days, you can still get sun damage so a daily SPF moisturizer is always a good idea. Keep your skin moisturized: As we age, our skin tends to become drier, so it's essential to use an effective moisturizer to keep it hydrated. Look for a moisturizer that contains natural active  ingredients like shea butter or jojoba oil.Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is a classic health tip and will keep your skin looking healthy and radiant. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water per day.Eat a healthy diet: Eating a well-balanced diet that's rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help keep your skin looking youthful and vibrant and is an excellent source of vitamins needed for joint and gut health.Practice Positivity and Mindfulness as a Priority  Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Many seniors fear they will become lonely and separated from loved ones if they move into a senior living community. However, more often than not, the opposite occurs, as there are plenty of other residents and activities going on throughout retirement communities. Meaningful relationships and engaging activities improve mental well-being and longevity so make sure to take the time to schedule lunch-dates or a walk in the park with your loved ones! In addition to keeping your mental health and mood elevated, make sure to do things you enjoy and engage in activities that will fuel your happiness. Try to take up a new hobby or give a furry friend a new home! There are dozens of resources for seniors available through the phone or online for mental health. You can visit the National Institute of Mental Health website to learn more. Mindfulness benefits everyone, especially seniors, who make it a part of their daily routine. Practicing mindfulness and being in the moment has proven health benefits that will help you appreciate life and aging. Some of these benefits include improved focus, better memory, lower stress, increased sleep quality, and better mental health. There are plenty of modern-day practices that are offered for seniors who want to focus on mindfulness. You can practice mindfulness with a variety of different types of exercises such as yoga, meditation, tai chi, and coloring. A more modern solution to practicing mindfulness is to download a mindfulness app, available on most smartphones, as a way to receive information and practice meditation when its most convenient for you. The journey of aging is more about being healthy and happy than keeping the wrinkles away. It is natural to anticipate what is next, so dont hesitate to use the resources available. Surround yourself with the ones you love, take care of your skin, hydrate, sleep, and live your best life!Sources:How older adults and caregivers can practice mindfulness to improve well-being - Care.com Resources National Institute of Mental Health

Staying cool during the summer months is crucial, especially for elderly individuals who may be more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Harmony's care, programming, and dining teams work together to create fun and safe activities during the hot summer months. Here are some ways we ensure everyone stays cool: Air conditioning: Ensure that the living space has air conditioning or access to a cool environment, Harmony communities are equipped with new HVAC systems are monitored so that the AC keeps working. Close windows and use curtains or blinds to block out direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day. Open windows in the evening or early morning to let cooler air in.Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty. Water is the best choice, but you can also have fruit juices, herbal teas, or flavored water. Avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol intake as they can dehydrate the body.Dress appropriately: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Light-colored clothing reflects sunlight and heat better than dark colors.Stay indoors during peak heat hours: Avoid going outside during the hottest parts of the day, typically from late morning to early evening. Instead, stay inside and enjoy a dining presentation, a movie in the theatre, or a game of bingo.  Seek shade or use sun protection: When outside, stay in the shade as much as possible. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and apply sunscreen with a high SPF to protect the skin from harmful UV rays.Eat light, refreshing meals: opt for light meals that are rich in water content, such as salads, fruits, and vegetables. The occasional ice cream party with the life enrichment director will also help to keep you cool. Avoid strenuous activities: Minimize physical exertion and avoid outdoor activities that require a lot of energy or prolonged exposure to the sun.Consider cool accessories: Use cooling accessories like gel packs or cooling pillows to provide relief from the heat when sleeping or resting. Use cool towels or wet compresses during the day. Apply cool, damp towels or use wet compresses on the wrists, neck, and forehead. This can help bring down the body temperature.Remember, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice, especially if there are pre-existing medical conditions or concerns about heat sensitivity. If you are concerned about your loved one this summer contact your local Harmony community and learn directly about how we keep residents comfortable - schedule a tour today! 

Downsizing can be an opportunity for sharing and enjoying great memories with family and friends.  Keepsakes can be handed down so they can continue to be enjoyed.  Items can be sorted into distinct categories:  take or keep, give to family, sell or auction, donate to charity, recycle or throw away.Ask Yourself Some QuestionsWill this fit in my new space?Is it aesthetic, nostalgic, valuable or loved?  Or am I just keeping it out of habit?Will it remain useful or functional in my new home?Can this item or piece of furniture save space by serving two functions?Is it easy to care for, or does it require special attention?Enabling the Downsizing ProcessLay out items that need to go and invite loved ones to pick what they wantWhen giving treasured keepsakes to family and friends, share with them its storyDonate serviceable items to charities that help the less fortunateHave an estate sale and use the proceeds for your new home or for donationsImplementing the PlanStart with rooms in your house you aren't usingMake decisions about big pieces of furniture before tackling smaller itemsGive yourself plenty of time to make good decisionsTake lots of breaks and ask friends and family to helpRemember the goal is to simplifyHave packing supplies, boxes and bags on hand to pack as you make decisionsSchedule the donation truck to come over as soon as you are doneAdvice for Family MembersBe understanding-downsizing is a difficult processDon't push or rush - offer as much help and guidance as neededStay focused on completing one small area at a timeMake a couple of passes through if it can't be done all at onceYou can even put things in storage temporarily if neededAvoid family conflict and consider hiring a third party to assistRemember, less is more.  Give yourself the gift of starting your new journey in a clutter-free space with the items you cherish, or have fun and order new items to fit your new space.

With the cooler weather in the air, it is a great time to get outside and enjoy fall activities with friends and family. For many seniors, it may become an excuse to stay inside every day, bundle up, and read a good book or watch a favorite movie. However, becoming sedentary during this time may lead to some physical and cognitive decline. Senior living communities offer an active and engaging alternative with plenty of indoor and outdoor amenities for everyone to use so no one is cooped up inside their room all day! These amenities play an important part to your loved ones wellbeing and offer more than simply a place to spend your time. The intentional purpose they serve can enhance the quality of life for residents living in senior housing and striving to remain active. At Harmony Senior Services, we provide amenities that benefit you and your loved ones. Our communities offer so much more than nursing homes and we consciously create a space where our senior residents can socialize and gather with their neighbors. There is no better time to do this than in the fall months where football, food, and tailgating can be right in the center of the fun! Staying active and social during the cooler months are vital factors for seniors to remain both mentally and physically healthy. The colder weather can take a toll on your loved ones due to the fact that bones become more brittle as we age and finding suitable outdoor activities can be a real challenge. Harmony provides a variety of ways to enjoy fall activities with our convenient amenities and daily calendar of engaging activities for friends and family!Grilling OutsideCooking with your close friends is always something everyone loves and is entertained by. At our Harmony Senior Services communities, we offer a grilling area with outdoor seating that is a great way to socialize while eating a delicious meal. Who doesnt like a good hamburger or hotdog while watching football on the weekends? Our team is happy to assist you in planning a fun event for guests and residents to enjoy. Play an Outdoor GameEnjoying the great outdoors by playing a game is always a great way to socialize in senior housing communities. From cornhole, to bocce ball, to horseshoes, there is always something available for everyone to enjoy. If you prefer to spend your leisure time playing card games, try the idea of playing outside if the weather permits and get some fresh air! At Harmony, we have a variety of indoor and outdoor common areas to accommodate large events or more intimate gatherings. Take a WalkGetting the legs moving is always a good idea no matter the weather! For seniors, blood circulation is not as efficient as it once was during our younger years, so make sure to bundle up to stay warm while participating in outdoor aerobic activities. Our communities have plenty of dedicated spaces to walk around and explore while staying safe. Weve made it convenient for your four-legged friends as well, so feel free to bring Fido.   We understand that it is not in everyones best interest to be outdoors when the season turns cold. Thats why Harmony also has great indoor amenities that can help your loved one stay mentally and physically active inside our community.Our residents arent the only ones who benefit from Harmonys amenities and activity spaces. A family member of a current Harmony resident recently commented,They have a library, an activity room, and a small exercise room. There's also a small theater so they can watch evening movies, even though most people have cable in their rooms. It's a nice social aspect of the process, I think that's awesome.  Having purposeful amenities will play an important part in any senior housing community to keep residents engaged and thriving. Harmony Senior Services offers independent, assisted living, and memory care communities that feel more like home, are spacious and inviting, and strive to make each day filled with meaningful activities. If you are thinking of having your loved one relocate to senior living, contact Harmony today!

If youve felt the sting of economic changes recently, its safe to say youre not alone. Whether your budget has been hit at the gas pump, in the grocery store, or on rent and utilities, we are all feeling the pressure to spend wisely and be risk averse with our investments. In contrast to younger generations who will likely bounce back from such economic fluctuations, our seniors are experiencing more urgency to protect their existing finances. The continuing impact of the economy on seniors in 2023 will depend on various factors, including the evolving state of the economy, government policies, and individual circumstances. Here are a few risks to be aware of and ways to protect your aging loved ones: Retirement savings: Many seniors rely on retirement savings, such as 401(k) plans and individual retirement accounts (IRAs), to support themselves in retirement. If the economy experiences a downturn, these savings could be negatively impacted, potentially leading to reduced retirement income for seniors. Finding a trusted financial advisor who can help protect investments and assets from risk is an excellent way to stay protected from significant retirement losses.  Social Security benefits: Social Security is a vital source of income for many seniors. The Social Security Administration adjusts benefits annually based on changes in the cost of living, which is tied to the economy. If the economy experiences inflation or deflation, Social Security benefits could be impacted. Financial resources for seniors, such as Elderlife Financial Services, is a great way for seniors to stay educated on the best way to utilize assets such as Social Security benefits.  Healthcare costs: Healthcare costs are a significant concern for many seniors, and the state of the economy can impact these costs. Rising healthcare costs could make it more difficult for seniors to afford medical care and prescription drugs. Many seniors seek guidance from prominent resources such as AARP, a nonprofit organization for seniors 50+, to learn more about how their medications will be impacted by economic changes and the best solutions to cut down on medical costs. Housing: Many seniors own their homes, and the value of those homes can be impacted by the state of the economy. A downturn in the housing market could make it more difficult for seniors to sell their homes if they need to downsize or move into a retirement community. Senior living communities, such as Harmony Senior Services, often partner with local realtors to offer seniors much needed insight on housing options. Overall, the economy can have a significant impact on seniors, and it's important for families to research solutions proactively through local resources such as senior living homes, retirement communities, financial planners, and realtors so all of the necessary information is ready when changes come.