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No matter your age, stepping up your exercise regimen is a good idea. Physical activity strengthens your bones and muscles, builds stamina, keeps you flexible, and improves balance. It also releases endorphins to relieve stress and boost your mood. However, for seniors, its best to ease into a new program to ensure you are exercising safely. Overdoing it can cause an injury, and no one wants that.WHY ARE WE TALKING ABOUT SAFETY? The National Senior Games Association reminds us that certain factors can put seniors at risk while exercising. Aging can bring poor balance, lack of flexibility, and a generally greater tendency toward injury. Some older adults become more sensitive to heat and humidity or more vulnerable to flu and colds.The good news is that, done properly, starting an exercise program can improve your balance and flexibility as well as your overall health. Talk to your doctor first to get help assessing your own level of risk. Your medical history and any specific current health concerns determine what types of exercise are best for you. Some may be particularly beneficial, and there may be things you should avoid. GREAT WAYS TO GET GOING SAFELYThe National Institute on Aging says seniors should spend at least 2.5 hours (150 minutes) per week on moderate-intensity exercise. You dont have to do it all in one day; in fact, thats not recommended. Instead, spread activity-based exercise over at least three days, and spend at least two days building strength with weight lifting, sit-upswhatever is most appropriate and safe for you.Set goals. That way you can celebrate and reward yourself as you reach each milestone. You can create a weekly action plan. This interactive activity planner helps you choose and customize activities that will be fun for you. If youre a tech fan, there are several apps you can use to plan and monitor your fitness regimen.Tips to stay safe and get the most from your exercise:Start with less-intense exercises first, and gradually ramp it up as your strength and stamina increase. Lower-intensity activities and stretching are especially good for improving flexibility.Always warm up before starting, to get your blood flowing and help prevent injuries. Whether youre exercising indoors or outside, make sure the area around you is free of clutter or obstacles that could trip you up.Wear nonrestrictive clothing and shoes intended for your type of activity. If you plan to exercise outdoors, choose a time of day that is cooler in the summer or warmer in the winter. If the weather looks inclement, switch to indoor exercises.If your balance is iffy or you have limited mobility, there are many exercises you can do while sitting or lying down. Chair yoga is a popular example. These movements help build physical strength and also serve to focus and relax your mind so you get a total well-being workout.Aqua therapy is another way to exercise that can be particularly beneficial for seniors. You can get a great cardio workout without putting any strain on your joints because the water makes you buoyant.Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your workout. Even if you dont feel thirsty, you need to replenish the moisture your body loses while exercising. Hydration is especially important for seniors.And if you need a little push to stick with your new exercise program, these five tips will help you stay motivated.

Nutrition plays a major role in keeping seniors healthy and improving overall well-being. A healthy diet can guard against numerous health challenges such as osteoporosis, high blood pressure and heart disease. Ingredients, portions, and smart recipes are all elements of proper senior nutritionand creating delicious, healthy meals doesn't have to be a hassle!By following a few simple guidelines, theres an endless variety of easy and nutritious meals that seniors can make on their own. Read on for some great tips and recipes to manage senior nutrition every day.BASIC GUIDELINES AND TIPS FOR SENIOR NUTRITIONAccording to the National Institute of Health (NIH), seniors will do best by choosing foods high in nutrients (lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals) and low in calories. A few options include: Lean poultry and meatSeafoodEggs, beans and nuts (preferably unsalted)Whole grainsLow-fat or nonfat dairy (milk, yogurt, kefir)VegetablesFruitsOther tips include:Prepare meatless entrees (or substitute plant-based options)Use whole wheat pastaTry ancient grains, quinoa, faro, barley, etc.Use low-sodium broth for soupsUse fresh herbs whenever possibleWhat you dont eat is just as important as what you do. Its a good idea to limit or avoid foods that dont provide much nutrition but add a lot of calories. Try to avoid saturated and trans fats, use salt sparingly, and limit alcohol. This does not mean you have to cut out everything you like. In fact, there are some sweet treats that are healthier that are certainly worth trying. Here are some ideas for putting together easy, nutritious meals. Mix, match, and add your own twists for variety!

Moving a loved one into senior living can be an emotional experience, and everyone wants it to go as smoothly as possible. Yet some families aren't always prepared with Power of Attorney (POA) documents, which may be required when moving into a senior living community. So, before making the move into senior living, here's what you should know about POA responsibilities.TYPES OF POASIn general, a POA is a legal document that authorizes a person (or organization) to represent or act on behalf of another in private or business affairs. However, there are different types of POAs, and not all POAs grant the same privileges.Since retiring, Move-In Coordinator Colleen at Miramont Pointe in Clackamas, OR, pointed out that POAs differ in every state. "A lot of states have a financial POA and an advance directive that covers medical," she said. "In Oregon, theres a POA to cover both of those. Other states may have a health care POA instead of an advance directive."A common errorespecially if a family has to act quicklyis thinking that having access to a loved ones bank account or having a financial POA is all they need. But thats often not the case. Its easy for families to confuse the fact that if youre on your loved one's bank account, you can do everything," Colleen said. "But theres a big difference between writing a check and being able to sign financial or medical paperwork on behalf of someone."If youre moving a loved one into senior living, you want to ensure that you have a POA or advance directive that lets you act as a healthcare representative. Its important to know the rules for your state and what paperwork is required, she said.PLAN AHEADEven if youre just starting to consider senior living, its not too early to start planning for future possibilities.Start by collecting legal and medication information. Have a copy of everything your loved one has. Start a file of all their documents such as medical insurance card(s), drivers license, social security card, and so on, Colleen recommended. Keep these in a separate file for easy access when your loved one moves into senior living.Then, consider talking to an attorney who specializes in elder law. They can help draw up the necessary paperwork. Before creating new paperwork, it's important to know if your loved one already has someone in place because anything new thats drawn up will override that. For example, if your loved one already has a durable POA but that person is not able to help with the current situation, then a new POA may need to be drawn up.WHEN ITS TIME TO MOVEWhile senior living communities differ on the details, the overall process of moving in will be similar. The process usually looks something like this:Any community that is an assisted living or residential care community is legally required to assess the individual before moving in. This assessment is required to be in person unless the prospective senior doesnt live locally, in which case it can be done over the phone or via video conference.During the assessment process, the community will need a consent form for the release of medical records. That form will need to be signed by the senior themselves or a family member that has POA.To reserve an apartment, there will be a rental agreement to sign. This will also require the signature of the senior or their POA. Often this is a month-to-month contract, similar to renting an apartment. Just be sure you fully understand the agreement before you or your loved one signs it.It is very important to have the proper consent and/or a legal representative among the family, so you know who can sign the rental agreement and who can make medical decisions once your loved one moves in.With the right representation in place, you can avoid having to deal with legal matters if a medical emergency occurs. Then, the family can focus on the immediate needs of their loved one and make the move to senior living as smooth as possible.Topics: Senior Living

Who doesnt love a sweet treat? We all have different ideas about what constitutes a scrumptious dessert or snack, but we all know that too much of a good thing hinders our ability to maintain a healthy weight, especially as we get older. Controlling sugar intake can help seniors reduce risk of chronic age-related diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and Alzheimers disease.Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging in sugar or fat. These three treats are easy to make and temptingly deliciousdefinitely worth a try! Fig NewtonsFig newtons are a perennial favorite. Theyre easy to make and you can substitute other fruits if figs arent your thing or you just want to change up the flavor profile.Apple Cinnamon CrispsThese yummy snacks are perfect for anyone who loves the combination of sweet flavor and crunchy texture. For variation use pears instead, or replace the cinnamon with ground ginger. Strawberry Mini-GalettesPies and tarts are delectable but also an open invitation to have just another small slice. Mini-galettes solve that problem, and although this recipe uses strawberries, topping options are almost infinite. Store-bought dough makes these treats quick and easy, especially if you purchase ready-made mini pie crusts! You can press them into muffin tins or use them flat for tiny tarts, as in this recipe.So, what makes these three treats especially valuable for seniors? PORTION CONTROLMark Holmes, national director of culinary Operations at The Goodman Group, tells us the biggest thing for healthy sweets for seniors is portion size. There is always a tendency to prepare as if the family is coming over, he says, but they arent coming over (at least not on the day youre making a pan full of brownies.) That leads to leftovers, which doesnt always sit well with a generation who hates to waste.Smaller recipes reduce temptation. For example:The fig newton recipe above makes just two servings. In fact, you can find numerous recipes online that feature desserts for two.What does an apple crisp for one or two look like? Oatmeal in the topping adds nutrition, and you can cut back on the sugar and butter without losing its crispy, crumbly appeal.The mini-galette recipe above makes 6, but you can easily divide it to make two or even just one. Or bake one with just a sprinkle of sugar, then top it with some low-fat vanilla flavor Greek-style yogurt and add your favorite sliced fruit.For ultimate portion control, make just one! This mocha mug cake is mouth-watering, and it bakes in your microwave. This website is devoted entirely to recipes for onenot just desserts but all sorts of dishes!Baked goods are great candidates for freezing if youre making a half dozen or more of them.  Bake larger recipes of brownies, cake, etc. in regular or bite-size muffin tins for appropriate portions and easy individual freezing. Bonus tip: you can freeze cookie dough, too, in smaller portions for baking just a few at a time.HEALTHIER INGREDIENTSSome sweets are just naturally better for you, proving that treats dont have to be laden with fat and sugar to be tasty and satisfying. Fig newtons, apple cinnamon crisps, and other fruit-forward treats are also healthier because the fruit provides both nutrition and sweetness. Oatmeal and nuts add fiber and proteinand textural interest, which also pleases your palate.Nothing beats fresh fruit in season. Dark color fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, and cherries are high in antioxidants as well as other nutrients. So is dark chocolatejust the ticket as a key ingredient or shaved over a parfait of fruit and low-fat yogurt.If you have a special hankering for strawberries or blueberries in the middle of winter, grocery stores now carry an amazing variety of fresh-frozen fruits ready for you to delve into. These tidbits make great frozen treats in the summer, or you can thaw a few at a time to make a serving or two of some fruit-healthy dessert. You can also freeze your own fresh fruit for future sweet snacks.So many tasty choices! Which healthy sweet will you try next?

For more information on Terracina Senior Living, Click Here.Though many of us tend to adopt a complacent lifestyle later in life, there are endless opportunities to stimulate our minds and improve our overall well-being. In fact, the more you can challenge your mind, the younger you may begin to feel. Neurosurgeon and CNN Chief Medical Correspondent Sanjay Gupta, MD reports that the brain remains plastic throughout life and can rewire itself in response to your experiences. Regular mental workouts create new neurons and neural connections a process called neuroplasticity and can slow or prevent cognitive decline.Neuroplasticity is a big word, but its not as complicated as one might think. While imagining your brain doing sit-ups and lifting weights is one way to spend your time, its not really what we mean by a mental workout. Rather, a mental workout is engaging with new skills, challenging your brain to make new connections. In 2019,a study done by the University of California- Riverside found that participants aged 58-86 who took classes such as Spanish, photography, and painting scored just as well as middle-aged adults on cognitive tests and reported feeling reengaged and more capable of learning than they had years prior.So lets engage our minds! To help you begin, below are 5 activities that you can pick up at any level, or age for that matter, to keep your brain humming well into your later years of life.PRACTICE YOGAThe mind-body connection that yoga fosters can benefit anyone, no matter their age or skill level. The most well-known practice is Hatha yoga. Hatha yoga encompasses meditation, breathing techniques, and holding an array of challenging postures, which can be modified depending on what's comfortable for individuals living with limited mobility. This type of yoga has proven to help older adults with speed and accuracy in tests surrounding mental recall. Not only does yoga sharpen your mind, but it also carves out space for you to explore the capabilities of your physical body. Whether it be challenging postures, holding extended stretches, or simply laying still on your mat, the 90 minutes dedicated to your practice will leave you feeling refreshed both physically and mentally.Community is one of the most important factors to consider when practicing yoga. You can try out different studios, practice on your own, or even find virtual instructors to meet your yoga needs. Most importantly, you should look for a place where you feel comfortable enough to be vulnerable to new experiences. It is at this point that your mind will benefit from your practice. The more you can learn to lower your walls, the greater strides you will see in your yoga journey.PLAY AN INSTRUMENTPerhaps you played an instrument back in junior high, or have always dreamed of picking up the violin. The benefits of music are extensive, and learning to play a new instrument is an excellent way to keep your mind agile. Musicians have increased activity over their corpus callosum ,the thin membrane connecting the two lobes of your brain together. This is due to the hand-eye coordination needed to play an instrument. Playing an instrument affects your mind in a similar way a strenuous workout exhausts your body its hard stuff! In order to play an instrument, you must be fully engaged so as not to make any mistakes.Simply practicing music for as little as 15 minutes a day can improve coordination and synchronization of brain activity. Maybe this is your sign to dig up your old trumpet you keep in the back of your closet, or head down to your local music store and have some fun picking out a new instrument. You can sign up for lessons through local instructors or even find ways to learn virtually. Remember: you are your own biggest critic. The more you practice, the better you will get!GROW A GREEN THUMBThere is nothing quite like the satisfaction of growing and tending to a plant from seed to flower. Whether it be keeping indoor greener your becoming a gardener, taking care of plants creates a soothing ritual you may just fall in love with. There is so much to learn about plants, ranging from what type they are, what kind of soil they need, how much sunlight is best for them, temperature control, and even what kinds of other plants they grow well with. There are several rabbit holes one can dive into when learning about plants.Tending to weeds, watering, and maintaining your plants health are all good excuses to connect with nature and get fresh air. People who grow their own produce are not only more sustainable but often lead healthier lifestyles. Who knows where your green thumb will lead you.LEARN A NEW LANGUAGEWhile learning a new language is challenging, the payoff is definitely worth the work .Research suggests that learning a new language can delay the onset of dementia as well as help you recover faster from a stroke. On top of that, you will be exposing yourself to an entirely new culture and community, which is a learning experience in itself.The best way for adult learners to pick up a new language is to approach it as if you were a child. Instead of memorizing grammar tables and testing your vocabulary recall, try and start at the very beginning. This means working on perfecting basic sounds. Surround yourself in the language by listening to music, watching films, or even reading children's books. Like in learning how to play a new instrument, you really only need to dedicate 15 minutes a day to your language studies. There are several apps you can download on your mobile device to help you learn your new language of choice.PICK UP A NEW ART FORMArt, in many ways, is in the eye of the beholder. Perhaps this is the reason why many of us shy away from creating our own works of art as we are fearful of how others will interpret it. At the end of the day, creativity is an extension of our emotions. Its very purpose is to exist without judgment.Participating in photography, painting, pottery, drawing, print-making, or even dancing are all excellent ways to explore personal expression. Creating art, in whatever form you choose, strengthens brain resilience, in turn helping to prevent memory loss. It also enhances fine motor skills through refined, purposeful movements which may help aid in joint stiffness and pain within your body.While aging is a fact of life, you should never stop stimulating your mind. The more you can challenge yourself to learn new things and explore your untapped potential, the stronger and more capable your brain will become.

For more information on Terracina Senior Living, Click Here.If you're just beginning to explore the vast array of options available for senior living, you're likely to come across some unfamiliar terminology and titles. Sometimes, the many concepts and options may seem to overlap. The process can feel a bit confusing, so we put together a list of common terms, phrases, and acronyms you're likely to run into during your research.AActivities of Daily Living (ADLs)Daily self-care activities, such as dressing, bathing, eating, and taking medication.Adult Day Care A service that provides daytime care for adults outside the home. Adult day care can include a wide range of activities and services, including nutritious meals, social activities, and medication management.Aging in Place The concept of remaining in one's home regardless of changes in health or care needs. This can take place in a senior living community, an apartment, or a home.Alzheimer's Disease A medical condition that affects the brain and is a form of dementia. Symptoms can include loss of memory, inability to recognize others, and other similar symptoms.Ambulatory The ability to walk independently, including walking with the use of an assistive device like a cane or walker.Assisted Living or Assisted Care A type of care level offered at a senior living community in which residents receive help with activities of daily living based on their unique needs. Services can include meals, transportation, housekeeping, medication management, laundry, and social activities.CCaregiver Any person who provides assistance with activities of daily living tasks to another individual. A caregiver can be a family member, a friend, or a medical professional. A primary caregiver is the person most responsible for assisting an individual.Care Suite A private or semi-private living accommodation designed to offer ongoing services and support, typically providing a higher level of assisted living services to individuals.Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)CNAs provide direct assistance with activities of daily living and other health care needs to residents and patients under the supervision of a nurse or other healthcare provider. CNAs are also known as a nursing assistant or a nurses aide.Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)A senior living community that provides multiple levels of care (also referred to as a continuum of care) to residents based on their individual needs. The care levels within a CCRC are often referred to as independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing. Most CCRCs require an entrance fee, which may or may not be refundable, and a monthly fee, which varies depending on the type of CCRC contract.Continuum of Care This refers to the complete range of healthcare services and other service options available within a particular community or campus. These services often evolve to meet an individuals needs over time.DDementia The loss or diminishing of cognitive functions, such as memory, reasoning, and thinking, that interferes with a persons daily functioning. There are numerous types of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and others.HHealth and Rehabilitation Center A residential setting in which a range of nursing and/or medical services are provided to residents.Home Health Care Nursing or other medical care provided to an individual in their home.Hospice Care A service that provides end-of-life comfort and care.IIndependent Living A senior living community in which residents require minimal or no assistance with daily activities.LLife Enrichment Program A variety of activities developed to target whole-person well-being and enhance the quality of life for residents in a senior living community.Living Will A legal instrument by which an individual details the actions to be taken if he or she becomes incapacitated, is unable to provide consent, or is unable to make his or her own medical decisions. A Living Will is also referred to as an advance healthcare directive or medical directive.Long-Term Care The services provided, typically over long periods, to individuals who cannot care for themselves. The services provided vary depending on the condition of the individual receiving them, including whether the result of an injury, a chronic condition, or a disability.Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)LPNs provide basic nursing care to residents under the supervision RNs or physicians.MMeals on Wheels A service that delivers meals to a persons home.Medicaid A federal and state-funded program that assists low-income individuals with coverage for medical care and other health-related services. Medicaid is separate and distinct from Medicare.Medical Director A leadership-level physician who provides guidance to a healthcare organization or community.Medicare A federal health insurance program for individuals 65 years of age and older. Medicare also provides health insurance for individuals under the age 65 who meet the eligibility requirements.Medication Management A process designed to facilitate the safe, effective, and appropriate use of medications.Memory Care Specialized services provided to residents of senior living communities who need support due to memory loss, dementia, or Alzheimer's disease.Montessori Montessori [Inspired Lifestyle]is a positive approach to providing care for adults living with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. Based on the methods of Maria Montessori and adapted by Dr. Cameron Camp, founder of the Center for Applied Research in Dementia, this approach of care allows residents to focus on their individual strengths and engage in meaningful activities.NNursing Home Nursing home is often used as a catch-all to describe any residential community offering senior living accommodations, although doing so fails to capture the wide range of available senior living communities. Instead, the recommended approach is to identify senior living communities by the level of care provided, such as independent senior living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing.OOmbudsman / Ombudsperson An independent representative, often employed by the state, for residents living in long-term care communities. An Ombudsman/Ombudsperson typically serves as an ally or advocate for residents in long-term care communities, helping them address concerns with the community's leadership and team members.PPalliative Care A medical specialty providing relief from the pain and suffering associated with serious illness. Palliative care is sometimes offered as part of hospice or end-of-life care.Physical Therapy The treatment of injury or illness with the use of exercise, massage, or other therapy techniques. (See also Rehabilitation.)Power of Attorney An instrument granting someone, often referred to as an agent, authority to act as agent or attorney-in-fact for the grantor, also referred to as the principal. The Power of Attorney document specifies the authority provided to an agent. A Power of Attorney can be limited to Medical Power of Attorney or Financial Power of Attorney, which provides an agent with authority to make medical decisions or financial decisions, respectively, on behalf of the grantor.RRegistered Nurse (RN)An RN is a nurse who has graduated from a certified nursing program and met the requirements to obtain a registered nurse license. An RN's scope of practice and responsibilities vary by state.Rehabilitation The process of restoring a capacity lost or diminished by illness or injury. Rehabilitation can include physical, occupational, or speech therapy.Respite Care Short-term, institutional care given to an aging, sick, or disabled person. Respite care also provides relief and support to a usual caregiver should they need to be away for a period of time.SSenior Living Community A residential setting specifically designed for seniors, with an emphasis on maintaining a high quality of life through activities, services, and community engagement.VVA Aid & Attendance A supplementary monthly payment, over and above a standard VA pension payment, for qualifying veterans and survivors. The VA administers Aid & Attendance payments, which are available to veterans who need assistance with daily activities, certain veterans who live in nursing homes, or veterans who spend a significant amount of time in their homes due to a permanent disability.We hope this introductory list has improved your familiarity with senior living terminology. When you're ready, we invite you to take advantage of our free Guide to Senior Living Tours to help make the most of each tour.

Protein builds strong muscles. Our bodies naturally lose muscle mass as we get older, even if we exercise, so its important for seniors to eat plenty of protein. Protein also helps boost your immune system, your ability to recover faster from an injury or illness, and maintain health when dealing with a chronic disease. Interestingly, a 2019 study revealed that only about half of seniors get as much protein as they should.HOW MUCH PROTEIN DO SENIORS NEED?For adults of all ages, the recommended daily allowance of protein is 0.36 grams for each pound of body weight. Thats about 54 grams if you weigh 150 pounds. However, if youre 65 or older, the recommended amount rises to 68-83 grams for a 150-pound individual.Here are some examples of protein content in common foods, though exact amounts will vary according to the specific product:6 ounces of Greek yogurt, 14 gramsA half-cup of cottage cheese, 14 grams3 ounces of skinless chicken breast, 26 grams4 ounces beef steak, 29 gramsA half-cup of white beans, 6 gramsA half-cup of lentils, 9 gramsOne cup of whole milk, 8 gramsSPREAD IT OUTAs you age, your body processes protein less efficiently. Research shows that seniors obtain the most value from protein by eating some throughout the day. That means eating about a third of your protein intake at breakfast, lunch, and dinner.EAT REAL FOOD!Thats the advice from Mark Holmes, The Goodman Groups national director of culinary operations. As an experienced executive chef he may be a little biased, but in fact, his advice is echoed by medical experts who focus on senior health. For most seniors, they say, supplements are not needed if you eat a well-balanced diet.Protein shakes might seem like an easy solution, but your body needs fiber and the many other nutrients found in whole foods. Conversely, packaged products fortified with protein (cereals, baking mixes, pastas, and protein drinks and powders) may also contain undesirably high levels of sugar. Read the label and choose products with the least added sugars or other additives. Better yet, choose real, whole foods.Protein isnt a single thing, its actually a group of nine amino acids, all of which are essential in their own way. Animal proteins, soy, and quinoa are all considered complete since they contain all nine, whereas other plant proteins include many but not all amino acids. So eating a varied diet not only tastes better, it helps ensure youre getting a full range of proteins.Good sources of animal protein include:BeefChickenSalmonTunaEggsDairy productsGood plant protein sources include:AlmondsPeanuts and peanut butterBeans (green as well as dried varieties, including edamame)TofuLentilsQuinoaWhole-wheat pastaAdding protein-rich, real-food ingredients such as low-fat yogurt or nuts can improve the nutritional value of many menu items, even desserts and snacks. SOMETIMES, SUPPLEMENTS ARE NECESSARYSeniors with certain chronic illnesses may require more or less protein than average. Or, they should avoid certain protein sources. For example, excess protein exacerbates kidney disease, and for those with lactose intolerance dairy products are nutritious but uncomfortably difficult to digest. And while some seniors are focused on keeping their weight down to a healthy number, others are at risk of unwanted weight loss. If thats you, your doctor or dietician may recommend protein supplements.Every senior is different, but getting an appropriate amount of protein is essential. By making an effort to eat foods that offer a variety of plant and animal protein sources, and by incorporating protein into every meal, seniors can feel confident knowing they are eating meals that are not only good but good for you!

Weve probably all heard about the challenges of the so-called generation gap, which tends to emphasize the differences between and among different age groups. By contrast, theres a whole new movement that recognizes the value and importance of bringing generations together through intergenerational programs. For instance, intergenerational relationships have been proven to have a significant and positive impact on young people's lives, with those involved in them being 55% less likely to skip school than their peers as well as 78% more likely to volunteer regularly, and 130% more inclined toward leadership.How does that work, and how well does it work? Here are just six of the many benefits these programs are bringing to participants of all ages!1. It energizes older adults and gives them a sense of purpose, especially when theyre sharing their experiences and skills. Working with children can even have health benefits for older adults. According to Generations Unlimited, older adults who regularly volunteer with children burn more calories per week, experience fewer falls, and do better on memory tests than their peers.2. Intergenerational relationships reduce the sense of isolation for older adults and potentially relieve or lessen depression. We know that loneliness and depression are big concerns for todays seniors. By providing a venue for seniors to interact with younger generations, they get the opportunity to build lasting relationships. Thats what happened at the Buddy Program in Billings, MT. As one of the participating teachers put it, Originally, the program began as a way to share what was happening in the younger generation and show how technology is now helping todays students learn with seniors. But it actually grew from this original idea. Friendships were built!3. All generations learn new skills. Older adults can learn new technologies from the younger generation and youth can benefit from mature mentoring from their wise friends. In an earlier blog, we talked about how intergenerational mentoring works to break down the generational barriers between todays youth and seniors. Through spending time and participating in activities together, some of the benefits for students and seniors can be a higher sense of purpose and self-esteem. It is truly a mutually beneficial learning experience.4. Intergenerational relationships can help younger generations understand aging and face their own with more positivity. One example is The Learning Center at Cypress Palms at The Palms of Largo, an experiential preschool managed by The Goodman Group in Largo, FL. Here, kids and their grandfriends interact daily. The children see residents using assistive devices like walkers and wheelchairs on a regular basis, dispelling any concerns or fears they may have. It also gives teachers the opportunity to explain what those devices are for and how they help. It lets the kids know that aging or disabilities are nothing to fear or feel uncomfortable about. It also reassures them that their older friends are being well cared for and loved. 5. It can dispel negative stereotypes and encourage bonding among generations. One executive director told the story of how someone with dementia became very close with two shy seven-year-old twin girls during Intergenerational Theater Productions put on by a partnership between The Commons on Marice in Eagan, MN, and Missoula Childrens Theatre. When they got paired with this resident, they immediately bonded with her. She became a grandma to them and they would not let go of her leg. She was on cloud nine.6. For children and youth who dont have grandparents or other seniors in their families, engaging with older adults fills a social gap.This engagement presents a unique opportunity to enhance the lives of both groups through intergenerational connections. By sharing knowledge, experiences, and perspectives with one another, seniors can help young people pursue their dreams while gaining a better quality of life for themselves as well. The meaningful bond between generations has immeasurable potential to bring growth in both directions!

When people move into a managed senior living community, they often ask about saturated fat in our meals, shared Mark Holmes, national director of culinary operations at The Goodman Group. He reflects that this is a good thing because it shows incoming residents are aware of senior nutrition issues and engaged in improving their own eating habits.Different types of fat can affect both good and bad cholesterol levels. Saturated fat in animal-based foods (meats, full-fat dairy products and eggs) increases LDL (bad) cholesterol in your blood. Consuming less saturated fat not only improves senior nutrition but also reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke. While these facts are motivating, it can be challenging to change your diet after years of eating a certain way, explains Mark. Here is his key to success: do not just say no! EVERYTHING IN MODERATIONThe more restrictions you put in place, the easier it is to fall off any diet. Rather than cutting out everything that contains saturated fat, Mark and his culinary teams across communities managed by The Goodman Group focus on each person and what will work for them. The goal is moderation.They focus on a three-prong approach:Focus on what you can haveFind tasty alternatives for things you can no longer eat (especially if you have chronic health conditions, as many seniors do)Use portion control to make room for favorite foods from time to timeThe culinary teams set a maximum of 18 grams per day for saturated fat within menus and recipes. However, that doesnt mean every meal has to meet the strictest limits. Under the liberalized diet program, managed communities can take a broader view, averaging things out over a week. That way, residents can still enjoy more of their favorite foods without sacrificing health considerations.Truly, Mark says, it comes down to personal choices. Make the right ones and you can lower your saturated fat intake without compromising flavor profiles. Mark and his teams use some creative ideas to lower saturated fat intake, ideas any senior can put to use on their own.CHOOSE LEANER CUTS OF MEATBeef, lamb, pork and chicken all contain saturated fat. Mark suggests turkey sausage in place of pork, and using fat-free turkey or ham for sandwiches. But be choosy about turkey, he warns. Instead of deli meats, consider roasting your own turkey. If you cant do that, choose a whole roasted chicken from the store. Deli meats are high in nitrates, something best to avoid when possible. Eating leaner cuts of meat and eating more fish will help cut down on saturated fat while still allowing you to eat the foods you enjoy. You can also get your needed protein from low-fat dairy and plant-based foods such as beans and nuts. CHOOSE THE RIGHT COOKING EQUIPMENTTo avoid saturated fat, you should stay away from fried foods. Again, rather than just saying no, think of ways to get creative making the foods you like. For example, communities managed by The Goodman Group opt to use air fryers when a dish calls for frying. That way, its okay for residents to have the breaded cutlets they love on occasion. If you dont have an air fryer at home, try baking foods in the oven instead of frying them. BE SENSIBLE ABOUT OILSOils are famous for their saturated fat content, but tropical oils like coconut and palm oil contain even higher amounts. It is advised to steer clear of them when at all possible. Some more oil considerations include:Purchase and use a sprayer when it comes to adding oil for cooking. You can fill it with quality olive oil, or buy PAM or grocery brand spray olive oil. A spritz or two will do for cooking, so youll use a lot less than if you pour oil directly into your pan.Look for light salad dressings or make your own vinaigrette, light on the oil. Eat emulsion dressings such as ranch, Thousand Island and bleu cheese sparingly as they are high in oil. Rather than spreading butter on your bread, use Neufchatel cream cheese instead. Youll get plenty of flavor with much less fat!WATCH YOUR PORTIONSThe best overall diet to ensure proper senior nutrition includes a variety of vegetables and fruits. Thats one reason communities managed by The Goodman Group feature such eclectic menus. Vegetables arent only nutritious, they fill your plate and stomach with fibrous products rather than fat. By choosing larger portions of veggies, you can then say yes to a small serving of something that is higher in fat.THINK BEYOND YOUR PLATEReducing saturated fat is a great step toward better senior nutrition. However, total caloric intake matters, too, so exercise also plays a role in combating fat and maintaining a healthy weight. Consider activities such as yoga or tai chi.Ultimately, its up to each persons individual choice. Whether youre living on your own or youre a member of a senior living community, you have to be engaged in making the right choices for your diet. After all, no one knows your preferences better than you! Topics: Senior Living, Nutrition

As our loved ones grow older and experience lifes changes, its important to take into account their perspectives and communicate freely with them on topics like health, housing, or finances. Remember, even if you are comfortable discussing these topics and feel like you understand your loved one, you have not walked in their shoes so listening to their perspective is key.MAKE IMPORTANT DECISIONSMaking decisions that elicit change can be intimidating, but it is important to have these conversations and maintain open communication throughout the entire process. You have to give them information and help guide them, said Tina, regional director of life enrichment with The Goodman Group. Let them participate in the decision-making process. One of the most important decisions that older adults face is determining the right time to leave their home and move into a senior living community. Wendy W., daughter of a resident at Terracina Grand in Naples, FL, recommends having conversations early when your parents are still able to decide what type of community would be a perfect fit for them. Let it be their decision, said Wendy. Get them thinking about it while theyre still able to make those choices.Discussing the cost of living arrangements is important, too. Keep your options and mind open when researching different communities. TIPS FOR CONNECTINGYour family is a team that should be working together with everyones best interests in mind, especially when one or more of the members is going through a natural but difficult change. While every family is unique, here are some tips that may help strengthen your family bonds:Have patience and be empathetic to how your loved one may be feeling.Be an active listener so that you truly hear them, and also let them know they have been heard. Stress that no conversation is off-limits.Build trust by advocating for them.Be consistentcall or check in regularly to let them know they have a strong support systemFORM BETTER RELATIONSHIPSOpen communication is the catalyst for better relationships. While you may only know Mom and Dad as parents, take the time to get to know them outside of that role. Initiate discussions about their past, present, and future.Clare S., daughter of another resident at Terracina Grand, feels that better conversations with her mom have created a happier relationship. There is more friendship now. We had previously lost that. There was nothing to look forward to or laugh about, said Clare. Now there is more happiness, more joyful times. She is more like the mom that I grew up with.Life is a journey filled with significant transitional moments. From the birth of a child to retirement, these changes can be overwhelming if you don't know what to expect. One of these major moments is moving a loved one to a senior living community. This can be a time filled with mixed emotions, but many find that senior living communities offer numerous opportunities for happiness and joy. Whatever the life event, keep these tips in mind when approaching conversations with your aging parents.

One of the best ways to keep your mind sharp is to take classes, gain knowledge, and learn new skills. That's good advice at any age, but it rings especially true for older adults.To encourage lifelong learning, every one of the 50 states offers some form of reduced,or even free, tuition for seniors. In fact, there are so many options, we put together this list of resources and suggestions to start a learning adventure.STATE UNIVERSITIES AND COLLEGESMany state universities and colleges offer programs for state residents aged 60 and over, some even for 50 and over. Programs can vary widely from state to state and institution to institution. Some programs offer no-cost class auditing that wont earn credits. Others offer low-cost classes for credit or non-credit. Some, like The College of Wooster in Ohio, offer community members of any age one tuition-free class audit per semester.The University of Minnesota has a robust program for state residents 62 and over. Seniors can audit classes for free or earn credits for just $10 per credit.Looking for a program near you? The Penny Hoarder has a list of free or cheap learning opportunities for seniors in all 50 states.COMMUNITY EDUCATIONMost urban communities offer a wide range of low-cost classes through their community education programs. These often focus on specific skills, such as photography, learning another language, or boning up on computer skills. But the range of options is usually pretty broad. For example, St. Paul Community Education offers everything from cooking and drivers ed to business classes. Similarly, Minneapolis Community Education has a full range of opportunities, including lifelong learning for adults 55 and over. Check out your local community ed calendar to discover the opportunities.COMMUNITY CENTERSCommunity centers and other local resources like parks, museums, and even retail shops offer general and special-interest classes in everything from using your cell phone to beekeeping. The 350 Jewish Community Centers (JCC) across the nation are just one example.ONLINE LEARNINGThe opportunities for online learning seem endless. Some of the top universities have free online classes, including Harvard, MIT, UCLA, and Michigan State University. Many college and university courses are offered through companies like Coursera. Or, you can look into additional learning platforms offered online for free. BENEFITS OF LIFELONG LEARNINGAside from being just plain fun, lifelong learning has an array of added benefits. Here are just a few.Keep a Sharp Mind  This includes slowing memory loss, which learning new information and skills can help. In particular, focusing on new, unfamiliar skills can improve cognitive function.Make New Friends  Learning with others is a great way to prevent loneliness and isolation, make new friends, and share new-found interests.Retain or Build Physical Abilities  Taking a class isnt just good for the brain. It can be good for the body, as well. Learning to use new tools in a woodworking class can help strengthen the upper body, just as joining a bird-watching group can have a restorative effect on the whole body. Consider learning a new type of physical exercise! There are plenty of free apps out there to give a try, too. Feel a Sense of Accomplishment and Purpose  Learning a new language, picking up a new skill, or creating a new work of art can all bring a deep sense of pride and even a renewed sense of life purpose. And thats surely worth the price of admission!The world of learning is vast and readily available to anyone who wishes to dive into it. Simply select your area of interest, and you'll likely find an assortment of online and in-person classes for you to choose from. It's time to ignite your curiosity and expand your knowledge. Let the learning begin!

The Freshman 15 is not only a thing that happens to you in college, warns Mark Holmes, national director of culinary operations at The Goodman Group. Its surprisingly easy to gain weight when you move to a senior living community. Boy, do they eat! laughs Mark. Even seniors who were previously struggling at home to get proper nutrition due to lack of appetite or other issues often experience a renewed interest in eating.Thats good in some ways.After all, getting proper nutrition and ingesting enough calories are vital for the continued health and well-being of older adults. Moving to a quality community promotes physical well-being by striving to ensure residents get better nutrition according to their personal needs. And the simple act of coming to the dining room for three meals each day promotes social interaction among residents, something that is also important for emotional well-being.TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THINGSometimes healthy weight may mean certain residents need to lose rather than gain weight, whether they arrive overweight or succumb to the Freshman 15. Its a matter of balance, which can look different for each individual.Mark shared that The Goodman Group managed communities think in terms of recommendations and guidance, applying a more liberalized interpretation of what is OK or not, never enforcing a strict diet of must-eats and cant haves. The Goodman Groups core philosophy of Platinum Service for every resident.n assisted living, the emphasis is on maintaining maximum personal independence. Toward that end, its encouraged for residents to participate in their own meal planning, making informed menu choices based on their food and flavor preferences but that are in keeping with any special dietary needs. For example, for those with diabetes, can focus on a consistent carbohydrate diet.Skilled nursing communities also have some residents who need to lose weight. Again, the focus is always on personal choices, not a rigid diet. No one likes to feel deprived, and residents shouldnt have to. Consider a carb-controlled menu. If a resident really likes cookies, a managed community can include a few now and then and adjust their overall menu in other ways.For residents with memory loss or who have Parkinsons, arthritis, or other issues that affect dexterity, offering a finger food diet gets the nutrients they need in foods or preparations they can simply pick up to eat.Even short-stay residents get the same nutritional guidance and support. This focus on positive choices will continue to benefit them after they return home. THE PSYCHOLOGICAL SIDE OF HEALTHY WEIGHTMark said that they culinary team noticed during COVID that many residents were losing weight. At first, it seemed mysterious. Then they realized that with family members no longer able to visit every day, residents were missing out on the treasured foods those family members brought with them. To help make up for that nutritionally, the managed communities increased snacks available to residents and also included more fortified foods in recipes and menu planning.For every person, there is distinct pleasure in eating foods we love. We never want a resident to leave the dining room hungry, so we always work to find that balance that provides an enjoyable dining experience with appropriate portioning, shared Mark.A lot of times, achieving that balance requires a certain amount of negotiation. At The Goodman Group and in its managed communities, Marks team works to educate each resident about what foods are best or potentially detrimental for them and about how much of certain foods is appropriate for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. If necessary, the culinary team brings a clinician back into the discussion.People will find a way to get what they enjoy, Mark notes. We want to be the people to provide that, so we work with residents to understand that food contributes to both physical well-being and social well-being.