The Gallery at Cape Coral

The mental and physical benefits of gardening for seniors are well-documented. There's just something special about working with fresh soil, sunlight, and water to bring a seed or seedlings to maturity, and the joy that comes from harvesting your work, be it a freshly cut vase of flowers, fragrant spices, or fresh vegetables.Many seniors have a lifelong love of gardening, but stop gardening due to mobility issues. This isnt necessary. With the proper tools and assistance, seniors can continue to indulge their green thumbs. Our own communities have thriving gardening programs through our Green Thumb projects. Freshly grown herbs are used in our memory care Spice Club, while community-grown flowers are part of our pop-up floral arranging events, are often seen decorating seniors apartments, or are given to friends and family during Kindness Week.HOW DOES GARDENING HELP SENIORS' PHYSICAL HEALTH?Gardening provides seniors with opportunities for daily exercise, which burns calories and strengthens muscles. Seniors who garden have less risk of heart attack or stroke, as well as lower rates of osteoarthritis, depression, and Type 2 diabetes. Getting outside increases a seniors supply of Vitamin D, which also reduces heart disease.The physical benefits of gardening for seniors include a stronger immune system. Exposure to a common beneficial soil bacteria, mycobacterium vaccae, is linked to improved immune responses and lower rates of allergies, asthma, psoriasis, and depression.GARDENING AND MENTAL HEALTHThe physical benefits of gardening alone would make gardening for seniors a worthwhile activity, but gardening also improves mental health. One study discovered gardening can reduce a seniors risk of dementia by as much as36 percent.How does gardening help the elderly stay mentally sharp? Researchers theorize gardeners make use of their fine motor skills, dexterity, problem-solving skills, and sensory awareness, all of which stimulate the brain. Gardening is also known to lower stress, and increase serotonin, a brain chemical that improves mood and helps protect against depression.Gardening can be a rewarding social activity, allowing seniors the opportunity to work together, chat, and enjoy each others company. Feelings of social isolation are reduced, lowering the risk of anxiety and depression. Small wonder, then, that we incorporate gardening into so many of our community activities!HOW TO HELP SENIORS GARDENTo help seniors enjoy the benefits of gardening, its sometimes necessary to modify the gardening environment and lend assistance as needed. A secure garden, for instance, helps seniors with memory loss enjoy gardening without risk. Adequate shade, sunhats, and frequent hydration breaks are also recommended to prevent overheating.As for the garden itself, modifications are needed to account for low stamina and mobility problems, two common issues affecting seniors. Raised beds with room to sit on all sides, container gardening, and indoor gardening all allow seniors to enjoy working with plants without overtaxing themselves. Make sure there are plenty of stools, chairs, and other resting places in the garden, and that pathways are unobstructed and easy to navigate with canes, walkers, or wheelchairs.Gardening tools for seniors are readily available at most hardware stores or nurseries. Foam grips can be attached to existing tools to help people with arthritis and are brightly colored to make gardening easier for seniors with vision problems. Grabbers and extension poles that can be used while sitting are great gardening tools for seniors, while wheeled garden caddies offer not just storage for tools, but also convenient places to sit.Gardening is a fun, low-intensity exercise for seniors with multiple physical and mental benefits. Whether you want to grow flowers, herbs, or vegetables, its a great way to stay in shape, socialize, and maintain a positive outlook on life, so grab some seeds and a trowel and dig your hands into some fresh, fragrant soil! You wont regret it.

The old saying goes that a dog is a mans best friend, but pets of all types can fill our hearts and fill our days with purpose and joy. If you consider adopting a pet as a senior, you can experience rich emotional rewards and multiple health benefits.MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS OF OWNING A DOGOpening your home to a dog or cat can lead to multiple mental health benefits leading to a happier disposition, stronger social bonds, and deeper enjoyment of life.Social InteractionThe transition to an empty-nester can lead to loneliness and other unpleasant feelings. Adopting a pet boosts your social interaction in two distinct ways. You always have your furry friend close by to share life's joys and challenges. Plus, you can meet other pet owners while walking your pet, going to the vet, taking Bongo to the groomer, or simply heading to a dog park. You can build lasting bonds with fellow pet owners and find a supportive community.Creating PurposeThere's no idly sitting in a chair and watching the day go by when Fifi needs consistent care. Pets help you create a routine and live each day with purpose. Pets help seniors build a daily schedule around feedings, walks, trips to the bathroom, playtime, and bedtime.Constant CompanionshipLife is always more rewarding when shared with others, and that adage is just as true about our canine and feline companions. A 2017 study published in the journal Acta Bio Medica concluded that interacting with a household pet increased the quality of life and reduced feelings of loneliness and apathy regarding pet therapy and the elderly, especially for patients with dementia or mental illness.PHYSICAL HEALTH BENEFITS OF OWNING A PETIn addition to the companionship owning a pet offers, living with your favorite furry pal promotes tangible health benefits that can have a long-lasting impact on your physical well-being.Encourages Daily ExerciseMost people can attest that its easy to be a couch potato with the lure of the TV or browsing the internet, but owning a pet is a great motivation to get up and move. While Fido scratches at the door for a walk, you reap the benefits of sunshine, increasing your heart rate, and exercising your mobility. Incorporating a walk with your pup into your daily routine can improve your cardiovascular health and promote daily movement.Boost Motor SkillsOwning a pet is an interactive endeavor. While you're brushing your cats hair or preparing her favorite breakfast treat, you'll also be working on bilateral integration and eye-hand movement. The little tasks that fill you with love like nighttime head scratches keep your joints lubricated and your coordination sharp.'BEST PETS FOR SENIORSIf you decide to adopt a pup, try to stick with smaller breeds that aren't as physically active. Ideal dogs for seniors are smaller breeds that are well-suited for apartment living. You might consider:Maltese Maltese are small but stalwart lap dogs. However, they do require regular grooming.Shih Tzu Shih Tzus are also lovable, pint-sized, and a good match for seniors. They also require consistent grooming.Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Cavaliers are typically quiet, affectionate, and, as a bonus, don't require as much grooming compared to other small breeds.Short-haired cats are terrific companion pets for seniors who cant commit to daily walks. Cats clean themselves, are quieter than dogs, and are more independent. Consider adopting a cat if you want a companion with minimal maintenance.ASSISTED LIVING THAT ALLOWS DOGS AND CATSSome seniors who have four-legged best friends may hesitate to commit to Assisted Living. After all, in some senior retirement communities, pets aren't allowed on the premises.

More than 580,000 people over 65 in Florida are living with Alzheimers. Its the most common form of dementia. Memory care facilities are one option to relieve the burden and stress of providing care alone. Over 806,000 family members in the Sunshine State support a loved one living with dementia.The Gallery at Cape Coral is an Assisted Living and Memory Care community. We specialize in clean, comforting, and personalized care for older adults living with memory loss. Our scenic location among the mangroves and palm trees allows residents to live with passion and purpose.What is Memory Care?Memory care provides purposeful Assisted Living services for people living with Alzheimers and other forms of dementia. Team members assist with activities of daily living and let residents experience a higher level of personal care.Neurocognitive disorders like Alzheimers are progressive. At-home care may be manageable in the early stages. 24-hour care and supervision will be required at some point. Memory care lifts this burden from family members struggling to provide care.Monkey Business stock.adobe.comMemory Care at The Waters of Cape Coral Senior LivingAlzheimers and dementia senior care is available in The Gallery of Cape Coral. This serene and secure area of our community allows older adults to live independently at their pace.The Cottage has a higher team-to-resident ratio to ensure personalized care and experiences. Benefits of our Memory Care community include a focus on cleanliness, data-based therapy, purposeful engagement, and family inclusion.Fit For YouNeuroplasticity is the brains ability to adapt and change through forming new neural pathways. Fit For You is a seated workout that promotes brain plasticity. This data-based mind and fitness exercise program is led by specialized team members daily.My MomentMy Moment is a way to celebrate the milestones and memories of each resident. Themed parties, supervised outings, and other special events can help people living with dementia feel valued.Dementia LiveDementia Live invites family members to experience and gain an empathic understanding of having cognition impairment. This immersive class simulates the challenges of Alzheimers and offers opportunities to connect with other families going through similar situations.Social EngagementCreating community among residents is best achieved through engaging the senses, promoting creativity, and connecting fine motor skills. Life workstations can help residents feel a sense of purpose and belonging.An estimated 40 percent of people with Alzheimers also experience depression. Allowing seniors to build new relationships can ease their anxiety and reduce their chance of agitation. Some of our signature social programs include:Green Thumb ClubArt Throb ClubMy Legacy AlbumMINDful Menu optionsMusic therapyPet therapy visitsA Higher Level of Alzheimers Care in Cape Coral, FLMemory care services are provided by team members trained in Teepa Snows Positive Approach to Care (PAC). With a lower staff-to-resident ratio, residents are free to live in the moment. Dedicated team members have the time and compassion to cheer on all of their victories.Our team members orchestrate a clean and compassionate environment complete with dementia care services that include:Licensed nurse oversight and attentionCompassionate team support available 24/7Health care services for all stages of dementiaActivities of daily living like bathing, grooming, and feedingMobility assistanceMedication managementOn-site physical therapyAll of the health services available in The Cottage are personalized and outlined in a detailed care plan. Family members can check in on their loved ones routines and care via the Sagely app. We also encourage in-person visits as much as possible.Dementia-Friendly Senior Apartments in Cape Coral, FLGiving a person with dementia a place to call their own can promote independence and a feeling of ownership. While we encourage interaction outside the home, senior apartments for people living with Alzheimers can emphasize comfort and security.Our private Memory Care studios can be decorated with the comforts of home and include:Plenty of bright natural lightingWalk-in showersGrab barsPassionate Memory Care in Cape CoralIndependent living or Assisted Living communities in Cape Coral are great for seniors who want to stay social and active. Memory care provides that same service for older adults living with Alzheimers.Memory care in The Cottage at The Gallery of Cape Coral gives seniors an opportunity to eat chef-prepared meals and enjoy time in the fresh air. We incorporate the easy breeze Florida lifestyle into our daily activities with happy hours, live entertainment, and supervised outings.We want our residents to live with as much passion as possible. We provide a comfortable and honorable environment for people with Alzheimers and dementia.

The Gallery at Cape Coral expands their continuum of care to include 150 apartment suites, offering a diverse range of amenities crafted to meet the needs of every resident.Cape Coral, FLExperience Senior Living (ESL), a Denver-based senior housing operator and developer, announced the opening of the brand-new Independent Living Community in Cape Coral Florida on April 1, 2024. The Gallery at Cape Coral, which initially opened in 2020 with Assisted Living and Memory Care services, now welcomes residents to its newest addition.Nestled in the heart of Cape Coral, The Gallery offers easy access to the citys shops, waterfront, parks, and local golf courses. Offering 150 apartment suites, the new community stands adjacent to the Assisted Living and Memory care communities, creating a seamless continuum of care. Residents can indulge in amenities across the expansive campus. From fully equipped kitchens for cooking enthusiasts to chef-curated meals in our restaurant to hand-crafted cocktails at the rooftop Sky Lounge, Independent Living at The Gallery at Cape Coral caters to every lifestyle preference.I am thrilled to unveil the Independent Living community at The Gallery at Cape Coral, remarked Phill Barklow, President of ESL. This expansion represents our commitment to providing exceptional living experiences for aging adults and seniors, and were excited to witness the impact it will have on our residents lives. Cape Coral is a very vibrant community full of inspiring and diverse people. We wanted to design a community that honored that vibrance, and I am thrilled with what the outcome is.The Gallery at Cape Corals design emphasizes the arts. Residents have the opportunity to enjoy works by local artists and even create their own masterpieces. Residents can also enjoy amenities such as a saltwater pool, fitness room, spa, bocce ball court, and an outdoor fire pit. Catered to individuals seeking an elevated lifestyle, The Gallery at Cape Coral offers an array of services including a salon, housekeeping, laundry services, transportation, and an activities director to curate enriching experiences.The Gallery at Cape Coral is located at 2307 Chiquita Blvd S in Cape Coral, Florida offering accommodations ranging from 650 square foot one-bedroom one-bath units to 1100 square foot, two-bedroom, two-bath units.For more information on The Gallery at Cape Coral, contact the community at 239-317-7555 or visit our website at www.galleryatcapecoral.com.

There's an old cliche that seniors have difficulty with todays rapidly advancing technology, but the truth is seniors are quick to adopt the latest tech. Wearable tech for seniors is making it possible for them to monitor their own health, lead more independent lives, and access entertainment. Health watches for seniors offer peace of mind for children and grandchildren as well: alerts from wearable tech can inform others if the wearer has a health emergency.When choosing wearable technology for elderly relatives, look for devices with large watch faces, which makes the device easier to read. Long-lasting batteries are also a plus, so the device doesn't need to be constantly charged. Below are some of the best wearable tech for seniors we've found.SMARTWATCHES: FOR A FULL SUITE OF FUN AND SECURITYWith a smartwatch seniors can send texts, make phone calls, and even make video calls. The best smartwatch for elderly people, the Apple Watch 7, offers a large customizable screen and a host of helpful features.Many of these devices can help your favorite senior monitor their heart rate and blood oxygen, as well as tracking physical activity with a step counter and exercise tracker. Seniors with memory issues or who live with sundowner syndrome benefit from the smart watch' has a  GPS tracker, which can be used to quickly locate the wearer.Certain devices, like the Apple Watch 7, even include a fall detection feature: if the watch detects a sudden change in speed and altitude, it sends an alert to the wearer asking if they're okay. If the wearer does not respond, the smartwatch sends out a call for assistance to a predetermined number.In addition, watches that pair with the internet can often be used to remind seniors about medication and appointments. Seniors can use the watch to listen to music, get weather reports, and play brain-stimulating games.ACTIVITY TRACKERS: FOR EXERCISE AND HEALTH MONITORINGIf an Apple Watch or other smart device doesn't meet a seniors needs, A Fitbit might. The best health watch for seniors who have some degree of independence, the Fitbit, monitors everything from sleep quality to the number of calories burned during exercise. Like a smart watch, a Fitbit can also be used to play music, set reminders, track location, and stay in contact with family and friends. A six-day battery allows seniors to go about their day without worrying about power consumption. At Civitas, we use wearable step trackers like the Fitbit in combination with our Healthy Hearts Walking Club. This allows seniors to monitor their progress, creates an activity log that medical professionals can check, and even help alert caretakers of any abnormal vital measurements.Specialized wearable technology for seniors is available to monitor more complex medical information, including brainwave signals, muscular bio-signals, and other chronic health conditions. All such technology is designed to save lives and help maintain a seniors independence.EMERGENCY ALERT: A BUDGET-FRIENDLY, PRIVATE SOLUTIONEmergency pendants, necklaces, clip-ons, and similar wearable technology allow seniors to call emergency services at the touch of a button. These simple little devices are ideal for seniors who may need assistance but don't want to be bothered with more complicated wearable technology. These devices also offer the safety of quickly requesting help without the hassle of data and location tracking. Such pendants use GPS to locate seniors and can be set to send messages to family members as well as emergency services, but do not store information about the seniors health or past activity.We find emergency alerts so helpful we use them with all the residents of our various communities. They give residents the confidence to live their lives secure in the knowledge that, should they need it, help is only a button push away.Of course, wearable technology isn't the only type of tech available to seniors. From music players and e-readers to laptops and even virtual reality, there's no end to the technology that benefits seniors.

After retirement, life becomes an open canvas, awaiting our creativity to shape the next chapter. Just as artists select their medium, retirees too have choices to make, particularly when it comes to the style of living that best suits their needs and desires. Moving into a senior living community opens the way to a new and vibrant stage of life, whether you choose an Independent Living or an Assisted Living community. Which one is right for you? It depends on the level of support and care youre looking for and the kinds of amenities youd like.Independent Living CommunitiesCatered to individuals who can live independently without requiring assistance in their daily lives, Independent Living communities are designed for active seniors seeking a maintenance-free lifestyle and self-fulfillment. Within these communities, residents come and go as they please, and can participate in planned activities as they like. Free from the responsibilities of yard work, home repairs, and housekeeping, residents can concentrate on what matters most to them.Most residences in Independent Living communities are traditional apartments or homes, complete with in-unit laundry and full kitchens. Various services are usually provided, including:TransportationHousekeepingYard workDining optionsHome maintenanceIndependent Living support services are typically focused around convenience-related amenities, with a strong emphasis on social activities. Healthcare services and clinical staff are not part of the standard offerings in Independent Living communities.Independent Living communities typically feature on-site restaurants, communal event and activity spaces, hair salons, and fitness facilities. The Gallery tailors programs to residents unique interests, offering a wide variety of experiences such as ceramics classes, wine tasting, and off-site excursions. The emphasis is on providing a vibrant social life that enriches existing hobbies and introduces new interests.Assisted Living CommunitiesAssisted Living communities are designed for seniors who need assistance with the activities of daily living (ADLs) but do not require significant medical care or 24-hour supervision. The Gallerys Assisted Living communities offer:Meals prepared by an in-house Executive ChefLaundry and housekeepingAssistance with bathing and getting dressedMedication management24-hour clinical staff on sitePet-friendly environmentsTransportation services(Actual food offered at The Gallery)In Assisted Living you have consistent in-home support from caregivers and nurses. The Gallerys senior living communities are made for aging in place meaning if you find yourself needing more care and support, you can simply transition into Assisted Living from Independent Living.The Gallery CommunitiesAt The Gallery senior living communities, we believe in crafting living spaces that are more than just homestheyre vibrant canvases where every resident becomes part of a rich tapestry of community. Whether embracing the freedom of Independent Living or the support of Assisted Living, we focus on fostering connections and creativity. Our spaces are curated to inspire, with every detail reflecting our commitment to inclusivity and support. From the lively gatherings that spark new friendships to the enriching activities that ignite passions and cultivate fresh experiences, life at Gallery is a masterpiece in the making. And just like every great artwork, our communities welcome furry friends with open arms, adding another layer of joy and companionship to the tapestry of life at The Gallery Senior Living.Explore the colors of community with us today. To speak with one of our experienced Leasing Counselors, call us at 855-222-4470 or contact us online.

The mental and physical benefits of gardening for seniors are well-documented. There's just something special about working with fresh soil, sunlight, and water to bring a seed or seedlings to maturity, and the joy that comes from harvesting your work, be it a freshly cut vase of flowers, fragrant spices, or fresh vegetables.Many seniors have a lifelong love of gardening, but stop gardening due to mobility issues. This isnt necessary. With the proper tools and assistance, seniors can continue to indulge their green thumbs. Our own communities have thriving gardening programs through our Green Thumb projects. Freshly grown herbs are used in our memory care Spice Club, while community-grown flowers are part of our pop-up floral arranging events, are often seen decorating seniors apartments, or are given to friends and family during Kindness Week.HOW DOES GARDENING HELP SENIORS' PHYSICAL HEALTH?Gardening provides seniors with opportunities for daily exercise, which burns calories and strengthens muscles. Seniors who garden have less risk of heart attack or stroke, as well as lower rates of osteoarthritis, depression, and Type 2 diabetes. Getting outside increases a seniors supply of Vitamin D, which also reduces heart disease.The physical benefits of gardening for seniors include a stronger immune system. Exposure to a common beneficial soil bacteria, mycobacterium vaccae, is linked to improved immune responses and lower rates of allergies, asthma, psoriasis, and depression.GARDENING AND MENTAL HEALTHThe physical benefits of gardening alone would make gardening for seniors a worthwhile activity, but gardening also improves mental health. One study discovered gardening can reduce a seniors risk of dementia by as much as36 percent.How does gardening help the elderly stay mentally sharp? Researchers theorize gardeners make use of their fine motor skills, dexterity, problem-solving skills, and sensory awareness, all of which stimulate the brain. Gardening is also known to lower stress, and increase serotonin, a brain chemical that improves mood and helps protect against depression.Gardening can be a rewarding social activity, allowing seniors the opportunity to work together, chat, and enjoy each others company. Feelings of social isolation are reduced, lowering the risk of anxiety and depression. Small wonder, then, that we incorporate gardening into so many of our community activities!HOW TO HELP SENIORS GARDENTo help seniors enjoy the benefits of gardening, its sometimes necessary to modify the gardening environment and lend assistance as needed. A secure garden, for instance, helps seniors with memory loss enjoy gardening without risk. Adequate shade, sunhats, and frequent hydration breaks are also recommended to prevent overheating.As for the garden itself, modifications are needed to account for low stamina and mobility problems, two common issues affecting seniors. Raised beds with room to sit on all sides, container gardening, and indoor gardening all allow seniors to enjoy working with plants without overtaxing themselves. Make sure there are plenty of stools, chairs, and other resting places in the garden, and that pathways are unobstructed and easy to navigate with canes, walkers, or wheelchairs.Gardening tools for seniors are readily available at most hardware stores or nurseries. Foam grips can be attached to existing tools to help people with arthritis and are brightly colored to make gardening easier for seniors with vision problems. Grabbers and extension poles that can be used while sitting are great gardening tools for seniors, while wheeled garden caddies offer not just storage for tools, but also convenient places to sit.Gardening is a fun, low-intensity exercise for seniors with multiple physical and mental benefits. Whether you want to grow flowers, herbs, or vegetables, its a great way to stay in shape, socialize, and maintain a positive outlook on life, so grab some seeds and a trowel and dig your hands into some fresh, fragrant soil! You wont regret it.

The old saying goes that a dog is a mans best friend, but pets of all types can fill our hearts and fill our days with purpose and joy. If you consider adopting a pet as a senior, you can experience rich emotional rewards and multiple health benefits.MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS OF OWNING A DOGOpening your home to a dog or cat can lead to multiple mental health benefits leading to a happier disposition, stronger social bonds, and deeper enjoyment of life.Social InteractionThe transition to an empty-nester can lead to loneliness and other unpleasant feelings. Adopting a pet boosts your social interaction in two distinct ways. You always have your furry friend close by to share life's joys and challenges. Plus, you can meet other pet owners while walking your pet, going to the vet, taking Bongo to the groomer, or simply heading to a dog park. You can build lasting bonds with fellow pet owners and find a supportive community.Creating PurposeThere's no idly sitting in a chair and watching the day go by when Fifi needs consistent care. Pets help you create a routine and live each day with purpose. Pets help seniors build a daily schedule around feedings, walks, trips to the bathroom, playtime, and bedtime.Constant CompanionshipLife is always more rewarding when shared with others, and that adage is just as true about our canine and feline companions. A 2017 study published in the journal Acta Bio Medica concluded that interacting with a household pet increased the quality of life and reduced feelings of loneliness and apathy regarding pet therapy and the elderly, especially for patients with dementia or mental illness.PHYSICAL HEALTH BENEFITS OF OWNING A PETIn addition to the companionship owning a pet offers, living with your favorite furry pal promotes tangible health benefits that can have a long-lasting impact on your physical well-being.Encourages Daily ExerciseMost people can attest that its easy to be a couch potato with the lure of the TV or browsing the internet, but owning a pet is a great motivation to get up and move. While Fido scratches at the door for a walk, you reap the benefits of sunshine, increasing your heart rate, and exercising your mobility. Incorporating a walk with your pup into your daily routine can improve your cardiovascular health and promote daily movement.Boost Motor SkillsOwning a pet is an interactive endeavor. While you're brushing your cats hair or preparing her favorite breakfast treat, you'll also be working on bilateral integration and eye-hand movement. The little tasks that fill you with love like nighttime head scratches keep your joints lubricated and your coordination sharp.'BEST PETS FOR SENIORSIf you decide to adopt a pup, try to stick with smaller breeds that aren't as physically active. Ideal dogs for seniors are smaller breeds that are well-suited for apartment living. You might consider:Maltese Maltese are small but stalwart lap dogs. However, they do require regular grooming.Shih Tzu Shih Tzus are also lovable, pint-sized, and a good match for seniors. They also require consistent grooming.Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Cavaliers are typically quiet, affectionate, and, as a bonus, don't require as much grooming compared to other small breeds.Short-haired cats are terrific companion pets for seniors who cant commit to daily walks. Cats clean themselves, are quieter than dogs, and are more independent. Consider adopting a cat if you want a companion with minimal maintenance.ASSISTED LIVING THAT ALLOWS DOGS AND CATSSome seniors who have four-legged best friends may hesitate to commit to Assisted Living. After all, in some senior retirement communities, pets aren't allowed on the premises.