Wellness at The Cedars Retirement Community: Better Living, Better Choices

Posted by Katharine

The Wellness Program at The Cedars retirement community received an award from Harvard Pilgrim for our commitment to health and wellness, community-wide.  As a result, The Cedars staff has benefitted from ongoing education and programming through a wellness grant.  Recently, Heidi Roth, Registered Dietician, paid us a visit to discuss plant-based eating.

Heidi began by clarifying the differences between the ‘vegan’ and ‘vegetarian’ diets.  “It’s not about giving up meat, it’s simply about infusing our diets with more fruits and vegetables.”  Several studies tout the health advantages resulting from more plant-based eating, which include decreased risk for stroke, heart attacks, and certain forms of cancer, as well as being able to do away with medications for diabetes and high blood pressure.

“Take one step at a time,” Heidi continued.  “Gently incorporate more leafy greens and vegetables into your meals – they’ll slowly substitute the meats.”  Nutrient dense foods that are satisfying are the key.  It’s OK to eat meat, of course, but shifting away from meat as the focus of the meal will make the difference.  Think of meat as the side dish, and the rest will flow

Following the presentation, there was an elevated level of excitement – with the attendants anxious to try some of the recipes.  Here is a recipe for delicious Chocolate Mousse – vegan style:

Chocolate Silk Mousse

–          12 oz. dark chocolate chips, 60% cacao

–          1/3 cup strong coffee or Kahlua

–          1 tsp. vanilla extract

–          1 pound silken tofu

–          1TB honey

–          Optional garnishes: crushed chocolate cookies, raspberries, whipped cream

Mix chocolate, Kahlua and vanilla together.  Melt using double boiler or microwave on defrost setting stirring frequently until melted.  Place tofu and honey in blender and add chocolate mixture.  Blend until smooth.  Divide between 8 dessert dishes, and refrigerate for at least an hour.

Nutrition Info per serving: 281 calories, 8gm calories, 24gm carbs, 77mg sodium.

Retirement Planning: How Do You Want to Spend Your Days?

Posted by Katharine

So, you’re thinking about retiring.  You’ve likely considered the financial implications and planned accordingly to allow for a comfortable retirement experience.  But have you planned beyond the dollar sign and considered how you’ll actually spend your time in retirement? 

Research shows that many retirees, and perhaps men more than women, underestimate the complex nature of the retirement transition and face the unpleasant realization that the absence of employment isn’t always the golden age they had anticipated.  We often overlook the subtler aspects that our jobs provide: a sense of purpose, daily routine, unique social relationships with co-workers, and time away from our significant others, yet after entering retirement, the absence of these factors can contribute to a negative experience for retirees.  By planning ahead for your retirement wellness you can improve your retirement satisfaction. 

Tips for a positive transition to retirement, from The Cedars: 

How do you plan to occupy your time? For years much of your day was occupied by work.  How will you fill that time now? Whether it’s spending time with grandchildren, traveling, picking up a new hobby or learning a new skill, take the time to plan how you will spend your time. 

What brings meaning and purpose to your life? Retires who were engaged in activities that were deeply meaningful and full of purpose enjoyed a more positive retirement experience.  Consider what people, activities, and experiences bring meaning to your life and plan how to incorporate this into your regular routine. 

What type of daily routine sustains your wellness? What types of daily routines did you have around your job?   Maybe you’ve been eager to change these routines once you are retired to better support your health and happiness. Whether it’s a leisurely morning spend reading the paper and enjoying breakfast or a certain time to hit the gym, develop daily routines that support your wellbeing. 

Remember that retirement is a HUGE transition! Be kind to yourself as you adjust to this new way of life.  Don’t be afraid to try new things, seek the support of friends and family, and explore the resources you need to make this most of this exciting new experience!

For information on how The Cedars retirement community can make a difference in your life, contact Angie D’Amours at adamours@thecedarsportland.org or at 207-221-7100.

 

 

Better Senior Living: Improved Wellness with Osteoporosis

Posted by Katharine

In recognition of National Bone and Joint Awareness month, The Cedars is focusing on osetoporosis and how to improve your ‘bone health’.

     Osteoporosis is the most prevalent bone condition among Americans with nearly half of all women and one-quarter of men likely to suffer from its’ effects in their lifetime.  Each year, approximately one and a half million Americans suffer a bone fracture related to osteoporosis.  Fifty years ago, physicians believed that weak bones were a natural part of aging, but today we know that we can do something about it.  It is important to remember that you are never too old to do something to improve your bone health.

     Osteoporosis is debilitating, reduces freedom of movement, and can cause a high incidence of hip and spinal fractures.  Prevention of the condition and patient education is key to reducing the problems associated with osteoporosis.  The goal is to reach people prior to an injury so that they can take the necessary steps to prevent bone disease and injury.

     One major thing you can do to improve your bone health is to exercise. Clearance by your physician and an evaluation by a physical therapist should first be performed for safety to exercise. Weight bearing exercise is best – walking, even short distances, is a great way to maintain mobility and bone density.  Isometric, resistance, and range-of-motion exercises are very helpful in strengthening muscles to keep you more flexible, and improve muscle tone.

     Not smoking is a lifestyle choice that reduces our risk for weakened bones.  Smoking greatly diminishes our circulation and bones are very dependent on healthy blood circulation.  Another little-known fact – drinking excessive alcohol and caffeine can increase calcium loss in your urine. So, moderation is important!

     Use proper body mechanics when lifting, standing, and bending.  Using large leg muscles rather than your back will prevent injury to the spine.  Make use of your cane or walker for stability in walking as recommended by your doctor or therapist.  This will prevent falls and the associated fractures that can occur. 

     Also, take your medicines as prescribed.  Calcium may often be ordered by your doctor as well as vitamin D, hormone replacement therapy, calcitonin or one of several newer drugs that helps in bone maintenance. Add foods rich in vitamin D to your diet such as eggs, fish, chicken, liver, as well as cereals and breads, and milk fortified with it. Getting outside in the sun for a brief time each day, while wearing sunscreen, is important for our bodies in producing vitamin D which metabolizes calcium.

     Lastly, remember to protect yourself from a fracture by putting into action the preventative steps mentioned above as well as proper fall-prevention strategies.  Help to maintain a clutter-free environment in your apartment, use as prescribed your walker/cane whenever walking.  Don’t try and reach or stoop to pick up items out of your reach – ask for assistance.  Take your time climbing steps, getting on or out of the van, and remain aware of the furniture or other people around you. 

    By taking steps to prevent bone disease as well as fractures, you can alter the course of your health and life – take good care of yourself!

More Pet Therapy at The Cedars Retirement Community

Posted by Katharine

In addition to The Cedars Pet Therapy program, The Skilled Care Center at The Cedars has partnered with another wonderful animal assisted therapy group.  Silent Sidekicks is a nonprofit organization located in Lincoln, Maine that provides animal assisted therapy/activities under the services of trained volunteers to communities throughout the State of Maine and the Canadian Province of New Brunswick. Their mission is to enrich people’s lives and promote health and happiness through positive experiences with animals.  Silent Sidekicks accomplishes this by providing comfort, support, and companionship through animal assisted therapy and activities as well as by increasing public awareness of the benefits of the human-animal bond.

While at The Cedars, the program will include the use of service dogs, cats, rabbits and guinea pigs.  All of the volunteers with Silent Sidekicks consist of fully trained human and animal teams.  As always the presence of animals enhances well-being and provides a very therapeutic relationship with residents at The Cedars.   

“Having a pet can be greatly beneficial to the health of the older population,” says Karen Snowden, professor at the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Science (CVM). “A pet can provide companionship and social opportunities for the elderly population, as well as physical, psychological, and emotional health benefits.”  Studies have demonstrated positive health benefits such as lowered blood pressure, decreased anxiety and increased physical activity.

For more information on wellness and life enrichment at The Cedars, contact us today. 

The Benefits of Community Retirement Living at The Cedars

Posted by Katharine

One of the biggest decisions we face as we age is where we are going to live.  Whether we remain at home in our familiar surroundings or move to a community among people with similar interests, we want to find joy and thrive at every stage.  The fact is that our health and social situations can change as we age and settings that were once comfortable can become challenging and often lonely.  Because of this, we need to periodically evaluate how satisfied we are with our living situation and with that, consider whether community living is right for us.

The reasons for moving to a retirement community are as countless as the people living in them.  Many choose to transition to another state in order to be nearer their families while others move within their own communities to ease the burdens of home ownership.  And still others tire of living alone and are ready for the next adventure in their lives, among new friends.  Whatever the impetus, retirement communities offering a full continuum of health care services provide not only the peace of mind in knowing that health care is available, but also offer benefits of community life.

There has been much emphasis in recent years on seniors staying in their homes.  We don’t often hear, however, about the negative effects of isolation and the real need to spend time with others.  A recent Gallup poll showed that socialization is clearly linked to happiness and lower stress levels, finding that seniors (65 and older) reported the highest levels of happiness of any age group, and those who spend at least three hours daily socializing are more likely than their peers to report happiness (Gallup, December 2011). 

Another study reported that elderly people who like to participate in social activities live an average of two and a half years longer than people who spend most of their time alone. The study further suggested that the physical health benefits of socializing were equal to physical exercise, even though the social activities involved almost no physical exertion. “It wasn’t physical activity or physical health but feeling worthwhile that led to longer life. Good health and eating counted, but it was social interaction that was responsible for the results.” (Value Options, 2006)

Family members frequently share with us that their parents have become more involved in life after moving to our community, and that the children and grandchildren enjoy visiting more than ever.  “They’re like family – people living there really care about my parents.” B.M., daughter of resident. Community spaces, meals in the café and dining room, programs and events, and community excursions all create opportunities for fellowship and camaraderie in retirement living. 

When it’s time to evaluate your options, visit a senior living community that feels comfortable to   you and talk to the residents living there about how their lives have changed since they moved to a retirement community.  For more information on The Cedars, call our marketing representative today at 207-221-7100.

The Cedars Senior Living Community: Celebrating Rosh Hashanah

Posted by Katharine

Tom Bell and Carl Walsh of the Portland Press Herald joined us at yesterday’s service, here is what they had to say …. Forgiveness, atonement mark the Jewish calendar

With the Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashanah beginning Wednesday, Rabbi Carolyn Braun plays a Shofar, (a horn-like instrument made from a bovine horn) part of a 30-minute ceremony at The Cedars retirement community in Portland on Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2013

But like any new year celebration, Rosh Hashanah is also a time for rejoicing, feasting and festivities

Jews after sundown on Wednesday filled synagogues to observe the start of Rosh Hashanah, a holiday that marks the Jewish new year and commemorates the creation of Adam and Eve 5,774 years ago.

While the Hebrew calendar may not be scientifically accurate, the concept is a powerful one, said Rabbi Carolyn Braun of Temple Beth El in Portland.

“We have the idea we are celebrating the birth of the world,” she said.

The two-day holiday kicks off a period for both rejoicing and of introspection, culminating in Yom Kippur, which begins at sundown on Friday, Sept. 13.

During this period, Jewish people in Maine and around the world seek forgiveness and atonement.

Like any new year celebration, though, Rosh Hashanah is also festive.

On Wednesday while leading a Rosh Hashanah service at The Cedars, a senior living community in Portland, Braun repeatedly blew a ram horn, a shofar in Hebrew, sending an ancient, trumpet-like call of alert down the corridors.

She also sang several melodies in Hebrew while nearly 20 residents sang along with her.

At one point, at he closing of a silent prayer, Carl Lerman, 86, sang an impromptu solo of Psalm 19:14, using a melody he had sung at his wife’s funeral.

“May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer,” he sang, using several variations of the melody.

Despite wearing a neck brace, his voice held strong.

Braun was visibly moved.

“To me, that is one of the essences of what the holiday is about,” she said after the service of Lerman’s performance.

“It is meant to evoke that kind of passion.”

When asked about the significance of Rosh Hashanah, Lerman offered a simple explanation:

“Happy new year,” he said. “That’s what it means.”

Tom Bell can be contacted at 791-6369 or at

tbell@pressherald.com

Health and Healing in Senior Living

Posted by Katharine

We recently did a workshop with our residents on the basic principles of Progressive Relaxation, with the main benefits of that practice being improved comfort and stress relief.  Another complementary exercise is Guided Imagery.  Guided Imagery offers similar benefits, but can be more widely used and requires less physical skill; it is one of the more attainable adjunct therapies. 

Guided Imagery is essentially an elaborate name for directed daydreaming, with the vast possibility for changing one’s mood and sense of wellness.  All types of people, from star athletes to patients with significant illness, have successfully used Guided Imagery to focus their thoughts in a positive, healthful direction.   

Guided Imagery in the healthcare setting can be used as a means of encouraging relaxation, reducing anxiety, and as a method of distraction from discomfort.  It is important to remember that the use of Guided Imagery, like other supplemental practices, cannot and should not replace the medical care provided by your physician. 

To practice Guided Imagery you simply need to put your imagination to work.  There are many resources available, including some that can be downloaded online, but you really only need a quiet place and your own thoughts.  If you would like to help ease your or your loved one’s mind during a time of sleeplessness, Guided Imagery can be a useful tool.  Assist your friend or family member to a comfortable seated or lying position.  Take a few deep breaths, and begin.  Envision a setting that you know to be comforting to this person and describe it in detail while he or she imagines the scene.  Favorite settings might include the beach, an open field, or a lake.  Help the person to notice the small details, like colors and fragrances.  Suggest how healthful and restored the person feels.  Alternatively, patients in the rehabilitation setting can benefit from Guided Imagery by visualizing the healing process.  

 

Dining at The Cedars Retirement Community

Posted by Katharine

How to Serve a Quarter-Million Meals a Year and Savor Every Moment

“A full plate tells me someone who needed nutrition didn’t get it and will have to make it up with supplements.  That’s unacceptable to me.  An empty plate tells me someone enjoyed a real meal, made from natural local ingredients with real care.” – David Kessler

When Wendy Bush was admitted to The Cedars senior living community, she worried about maintaining her weight while recovering from a broken leg.  “The food at The Cedars is wonderful!”  she declares.  “When I started looking forward to the next meal, I knew I might be in trouble.  Thank goodness for the portion control.”

She really means thank goodness for David Kessler, Director of Dining Services, and his team.  When David arrived at The Cedars in 1994, he served 102 residents with a staff of 18.  Today, David oversees the preparation, production and service of over 500 community meals and 100 guest meals per day with a staff of 75.

Most of the meals must meet a wide range of therapeutic needs, from renal to cardiac, and be served in as homelike a manner as possible.  The Cedars does not serve any meals on hospital-style trays.  Most of these meals are served in our beautiful, sun-drenched formal dining rooms by attentive waitstaff.  Elegant china and linens showcase each dish, and residents look forward to sharing lively conversations – and perhaps a glass of wine – with their friends and families.

WHAT IS THERAPEUTIC MEAL?

Many of the patients and residents of The Cedars have dietary restrictions or special dietary needs because of their age or medical condition.  David and his team must create tempting, nutritious meals that meet critical requirements every single day.

Meals may need to be  “mechanically altered,” or made easier to chew or swallow – meats cut up or pureed, liquids thickened.  “Two residents might be sitting side-by-side at lunchtime, but one of them has difficulty swallowing,” David explains.  “If you sit down with them, you’d see two tempting plates of chicken under cacciatore sauce – but chicken on one plate has been diced.”

Many patients can only have a specific amount of sodium in their diet, challenging the chefs to infuse dishes with flavor using other herbs and spices.  Another typical restriction is carbohydrates, for diabetic residents who must control their glucose levels.”

“Take those two diners again,” David continues.  “One has a piece of chocolate cake for dessert.  How does their companion, who has a carbohydrate-restricted diet, feel if we say, No, you can’t have that?  We provide a smaller piece of the same cake – and the same amount of happiness and enjoyment.”

The Cedars also honors it’s Jewish heritage by offering kosher meals.  Under the supervision of a rabbi, Dining Services prepares kosher meals in a kosher kitchen not just for interested residents, but for the Jewish Community Alliance’s Meals on Wheels program.

David never loses sight of the fact that we eat a meal not just because we need nourishment, but because we crave the tastes of our childhood, cultural traditions or the company of our friends. 

MENU PLANNING AND SERVICE

David plans his dining menus around seasonality and variety.  “Living in Maine gives us access to the best seafood, produce and meats,” he explains.  “And we don’t want even our most popular dishes to feel repetitive. In every way, we try to keep our menus fresh.”

Matt Caiazzo, Assistant Dining Director, also meets monthly with the resident dining committees.  He shares how dishes are prepared, listens to feedback on recent meals and takes special requests for particular dishes or ingredients.”

“Our menus reflect years and years of resident feedback,” David says.  “We’re always refining old favorites and introducing new ones.”

Seniors gather for meals in our main dining rooms for formal service or on the neighborhoods for family-style dining.  Offering these choices reflects the team’s committment to keeping meals as homelike as possible.

“We want seniors to be able to smell and taste and see their choices, just like home,” says David.

SPECIAL CELEBRATIONS

The Cedars hosts special events all year long, and Dining Services caters everyone.  From trays of healthy wraps for a meeting of six people to family dinners for 130 people, David’s team makes great food the centerpiece of every celebration.

“One of my favorites is the Anti-Cabin Fever Barbeque in February,” David says with a grin.  “My team outside on the patio, grilling in Hawaiian shirts and straw hats over their winter coats.  Residents and staff just love watching us cooking for them in the ice and snow.”

Planning these events can beging months in advance.  “We create menus and place food orders for summer barbeques at The Atrium and The Cedars Auxiliary Donors Dinner in early June,” David says.  “We’re always thinking ahead.”

“Nothing is more connected with the feeling of home than food,” David says. “And we want everyone at The Cedars to feel right at home.”

 

Inspiration in Group at The Cedars Retirement Community

Posted by Katharine

As we age, our focus so often involves the physical aspects of our lives: getting a good night’s sleep, eating well, and treating what ails us.   But our later years, like any other life-cycle, is a time to be celebrated and can be a time for deep fulfillment and inspiration.  Janine Fifield, Volunteer Coordinator at The Cedars, recognizes this and has begun offering a discussion group for our residents called Angels on Earth.

“We find a quiet area and have anywhere from six to 15 attendants.  One Saturday I had several family members join in,” Janine explains.  They begin the group by reading a real-life story where the author relates a challenging time or difficult situation in their lives that they were able to overcome, through the help of others or from an unexpected change in events.

From there, the conversations flow.  The residents offer their own stories about personal circumstances and losses, and how they’ve gotten through them with their own version of spirituality and strength. “The residents are fully engaged and seem to find inspiration from each other,” Janine explains, “the subject holds their attention so well.  And we all leave feeling a bit lighter and perhaps more honed into our own sense of purpose.”

For more information on wellness and inspiration as we age, contact Janine at jfifield@thecedarsportland.org