Middletown Home, The

There are many changes in the realm of senior care.  One of the changes that has been highlighted is how intergenerational living can have a positive effect for residents, staff, families, communities for everyone involved!As reported in American Planning Associations June 7, 2023, blog [i]The Importance of Intergenerational Communities, they state that multigenerational and age-friendly communities create a vehicle to bring generations together: Reduce age segregation and ageism Decrease social isolation, depression, and loneliness Improve community infrastructure and facilities.At The Middletown Home, we are living the excitement and visioning for a future of an intergenerational community.  A campus where students, residents, families and our staff are able to live in community with one another. Currently, The Middletown Home offers students from local colleges and universities a wonderful opportunity to reside on our campus in their own apartment right next door to our residents.  Students receive a furnished independent living apartment equipped with a full bath and meal plan, and students are encouraged to share meals with residents in our dining room. A very modest monthly fee is charged to the student in exchange for the student providing a minimum of twenty (20) hours/month of structured volunteer programming with our residents.  Students are encouraged to participate in programming such as: 1:1 visits; escorting residents to social events on and off campus; sharing in music, dance, drama, and/or art; and most importantly offering companionship.  A key component of culture and community growth is the introduction of varied generations living together to the benefit of all.  In March 2022, Seniors Housing Business published an article called [ii]Intergenerational Communities: The Latest Trend for Happier, Healthier Living, reporting that Generations United stated that an astounding 92 percent of Americans believe intergenerational activities can help reduce loneliness across all ages. Loneliness and isolation are big concerns within senior living communities. When one is isolated for long periods of time, depression and mental health problems start to form. The body will eventually follow the mind when the mind starts to deteriorate, so does ones physical health. By providing an environment to older adults to engage and commune with the younger generation it gives opportunity to build lasting relationships. Not only do intergenerational communities build harmony between the age gaps, they energize older adults and give them a sense of purpose, especially when given the opportunity to share their life experiences and skills with the youth. This paper reports there is a growing interest among senior housing providers to create intergenerational programming as a vehicle for connecting residents to the broader community, enhancing well-being for both youth and older adults, reducing ageism, and preparing an aging workforce.  On the campus of The Middletown Home, we believe that this is the future in senior residential living, and the future is now. As we grow our campus at The Middletown Home, you will see further intergenerational growth such as apartments for our staff, child-care for folks who reside and/or serve on campus, as well as a growing venue of social programming, inclusive of our free summer concert series, Annual Pumpkin Fest Weekend Celebration, and so much more for folks of all ages! The intergenerational shift will open up the lives of both the seniors and the participants (children or young adults) and can positively impact everyones outlook.  As we vision for the future, The Middletown Home is intentional in more fully developing a campus of Wellness, Rehabilitation, and Lifelong Learning, especially through the relationship between The Middletown Home and local college/university students. I truly believe that We are better when were together, both residents, students, families and staff living together in one community with one another. _____________________________ Editors Note: Lou Vogel submitted this article. He is the CEO at The Middletown Home a Continuing Care Retirement Community.   [i] https://planning.org/blog/9270319/the-importance-of-intergenerational-communities/ [ii] https://seniorshousingbusiness.com/intergenerational-communities-the-latest-trend-for-happier-healthier-living/

Need short term rest and relief?Want time to recover safely from surgery or a fall?A Respite Stay is the answer.  The Middletown Home provides easy, hassle-free Respite Care.Whether a caregiver needs a break, a family is going on vacation and needs assistance with a loved one, or you need extra support recovering from accident, illness or surgery, we are here for you! Our fully furnished Respite Rooms take the headache out of a brief stay and are the best option for those needing care for a short time. Caregivers have no need to feel guilty for placing a loved one in our very capable hands.  Many of our Respite Guests come back year after year.  One such gentleman, with a chronic, life-long condition, comes to stay for two weeks each time his wife goes on a Girls Trip.  He claims these respite stays have only served to strengthen their bond and provide her with much needed rest and relaxation.Age isnt an issue.  While many of our residents and guests may be up in years, The Middletown Home welcomes persons of all ages, who need care, to come stay with us.The level of care isnt a problem.  The Middletown Home has assisted personal care, as well as skilled nursing Respite Care available.Experience you can trust.  For nearly 100 years, the experts at The Middletown Home have provided care that is first class, compassionate and professional, for the short term and the long term.  We are a 501 (c)(3), non-profit, continuing care community unlike any other.   We are committed to providing care to 18 year olds recovering from a knee injury, to 103 year olds with a new hip needing extra time before going home.  Your respite stay can last anywhere from 7 days to several months.  Its a relief for many to know their loved one has 24/7 access to medical care, as well as being socially engaged, and able to attend exciting activities both here at The Middletown Home, and outside in the Community.  The following features are included with Respite Care:Safe and secure locationFully furnished accommodationsThree nutritious meals dailySnacks and beverages throughout the dayProfessional medical team onsite 24/7Medication administration and managementAssistance with daily activities like dressing, bathing and groomingIncontinence managementIn-house rehab services, no need to leave the buildingFun activities available dailyAt The Middletown Home, we offer a special opportunity for Respite Care, just a minimum 7-day stay is all thats required. Whether youre traveling or simply need a break from caregiving, think of The Middletown Home as your families home away from home!  Call 717-944-3351, take a tour and find out more!  This article was submitted by Cindy Miller,Director of Marketing, The Middletown Home.