MOTIVATE stands for Maine’s Oral Team Based Initiative: Vital access to education. This program is free and reaches a new audience of caregivers/care partners of older adults that reside at home. The content of this program was modified from a similar, existing evidence-based program for the health care team in nursing homes. The results of that program are now published in the Journal of Public Health Dentistry. The MOTIVATE at Home program provides free education. The program teaches older adults, caregivers, and health care professionals the importance of oral health and what their role can be for promoting oral health for their older adult living at home, even if they don’t provide hands on care. This program was funded by the CareQuest institute for Oral Health. The majority of the program is web based and offers 24/7 access to online education in the form of videos, tip sheets, audio...
The Cedars senior living community in Portland, in collaboration with the Westbrook Housing Authority and University of New England School of Nursing, proudly announces the launch of Telehealth Intervention Programs for Seniors (TIPS), an innovative initiative designed to enhance social connection and improve health and wellbeing among Maine’s older adult population. The kick-off presentation took place last Friday at the Robert L. Harnois Apartments, Westbrook Housing Authority. The program is directed by The Cedars’ Sue Dionne-Jones, VP of Nursing! TIPS offers weekly health checks from a licensed nurse such as blood pressure, oxygen levels, pulse, etc. “The Cedars views TIPS as a proactive measure to empower older adults to maintain independent living at home while significantly enhancing their well-being and community involvement,” said Kathryn Callnan, President and CEO of The Cedars. “By addressing both medical and social needs, we anticipate a reduction in hospitalizations, rehospitalizations, emergency room visits, and...
In the fall of 2022, the Portland Conservatory of Music and The Atrium at The Cedars started what has grown into a beautiful musical relationship. Faculty, student groups, and soloists from PCM perform on the 2nd Tuesday evening of each month to the gracious and engaging members of The Atrium. The music ranges from instrumental soloists to collaborations such as flute and violin, music from the Middle East on traditional instruments, classical and Spanish guitar, cello duets, string trios and quartets, and fiddle and accordion. Here is what some of the PCM faculty members have to say about their experience performing: “It was such a fun and fulfilling experience! The space is beautiful, I look forward to my next opportunity to perform there!” “The audience was very receptive to our performance. They enjoyed the explanation of each piece and composer which added to the overall experience” “There is...
We are SO excited that our very own Jenna Perkins, CNA-M, has been honored with the LeadingAge Maine & New Hampshire Standing Ovation Award! Jenna was given the Benjamin G. Elder Memorial Award for Excellence in Service at the LeadingAge Conference yesterday with her parents and Cedars’ leadership there to support! Jenna truly exemplifies what it means to be a team player and her compassion is palpable. “She is a team player and so willing to help. Jenna’s end goal is always excellent patient care.” states Nursing Administrative Coordinator, Debra Russell. Jenna puts the residents first and truly defines the practice of person-centered care. Jenna joined The Cedars as a CNA in long-term care in 2017 and has continued her education enrolling in an Associates nursing program this past fall. We could not be prouder of Jenna and know she will continue to grow and thrive in her field, touching...
Did you know that The Cedars is recognized by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement – IHI as an Age-Friendly Health System – Committed to Care Excellence. The Cedars is recognized by IHI as a leader in this rapidly growing movement committed to care of older adults that is: • Guided by an essential set of age-friendly, evidence-based practices across the 4Ms (What Matters, Medication, Mentation, and Mobility); • Causes no harms; and • Is consistent with What Matters to the older adult and their family. This is an exciting movement and there is much to be proud of as, together, we improve the health and health care of older adults....
Under the auspices of Spiritual Care Services of Maine, Sally Thomas has been providing chaplain services at The Cedars since June of 2023. She visits each of four Cedars neighborhoods once a month, offering both one on one pastoral care and group conversation. In each neighborhood she works with the Lifestyles Managers to help her understand what might be interesting or useful and then makes plans for conversation for each setting. Like many chaplains she knows, much of her training was gotten in a medical setting–in her case, during the many years she worked as an RN in oncology. Her monthly visits to the Atrium follow a pattern: first she checks with participants giving each a chance to share what’s on their mind; then she presents a story, usually with material props of some kind, to provide a basis for spiritual conversation. (At a recent meeting, in telling an...
Winter blues? Helpful tips for seasonal depression Fatigue, depression, hopelessness, and social withdrawal. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you may be struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder. Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is sometimes referred to as Seasonal Depression. It is a real struggle, and, for some, it can be debilitating. People typically develop symptoms of SAD during the fall and winter months. Although there is no definitive answer why some develop SAD, it is said to be linked to shorter days and less exposure to sunlight. This lack of sun is said to cause a chemical change in our brains. That, coupled with unpredictable weather, less social activities, and the stress of the holidays, can certainly lead someone to feel less than their best. When it comes to your mental and physical health you should consult a health care professional before trying any new form of therapy,...
On July 25, 2023, Dr. Susan Wehry spoke about Optimal Engagement at a cocktail party held at the home of Judy Glickman Lauder and Leonard Lauder. Bernard Osher was recognized for his contribution to this important project. The Cedars partnered with the University of New England (UNE) to study better supports for people with dementia. An interdisciplinary group of UNE graduate students in healthcare fields dug deep into scientific literature to identify best practices, evidence-based strategies, and gaps in knowledge under the direction of Susan Wehry, MD, Associate Clinical Professor, UNE College of Medicine, who co-leads the initiative with Angela Hunt, RPT, MS, our Chief Innovation Officer. The team’s recommendations will be reviewed by panels which include people living with dementia. This feedback and insight will inform the development of widely accepted, person-centered best practices that will have a transformative impact on older adults living with dementia and their...
Posted in our blog on by Janine Fifield& filed under Latest News.
At the Lunder Memory Care Assisted Living Household, we believe that people with an Alzheimer’s and/or a dementia diagnosis, can continue to engage in meaningful activities and participate in their overall health and wellness when receiving support from healthcare partners trained in their specific needs. For each person, the dementia journey will be different, and the needs will change along the way with time. At the Lunder Memory Care Household, we believe that through careful and thoughtful evaluation and intervention, we can anticipate and prepare for predicted changes in cognitive function. Our interdisciplinary team approach provides opportunities for successful socialization, choice, personal care, and self-direction, all within the environment of home. Care is organized around resident choices and preferences for the day. Our program identifies strengths and allows for resident positive interactions enhancing resident self-worth and life satisfaction. Commitment: The Lunder Memory Care Program Offers residents a daily person-centered...
Posted in our blog on by Janine Fifield& filed under Atrium, Latest News.
Exercising in the water is low impact and delivers tremendous benefits to your cardiovascular and respiratory systems, not to mention, it can be a lot of fun! When you exercise in the water you are generally able to do a lot more than your body may allow on dry land. Along with some increased flexibility and balance, the push and pull of the water allow both increased muscle training and a built-in safety barrier for joints. The water also helps to reduce lactic acid buildup and offers a gentler natural resistance while training. Aquacising at The Atrium is offered three times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The class is a go at your own pace and begins at 9:15am and lasts until 10:00am. The trainer stands outside of the water giving instructions and motivating the participants. Join a class today! ...
In the fall of 2022, the Portland Conservatory of Music and The Atrium at The Cedars started what has grown into a beautiful musical relationship. Faculty, student groups, and soloists from PCM perform on the 2nd Tuesday evening of each month to the gracious and engaging members of The Atrium. The music ranges from instrumental soloists to collaborations such as flute and violin, music from the Middle East on traditional instruments, classical and Spanish guitar, cello duets, string trios and quartets, and fiddle and accordion. Here is what some of the PCM faculty members have to say about their experience performing: “It was such a fun and fulfilling experience! The space is beautiful, I look forward to my next opportunity to perform there!” “The audience was very receptive to our performance. They enjoyed the explanation of each piece and composer which added to the overall experience” “There is...
We are SO excited that our very own Jenna Perkins, CNA-M, has been honored with the LeadingAge Maine & New Hampshire Standing Ovation Award! Jenna was given the Benjamin G. Elder Memorial Award for Excellence in Service at the LeadingAge Conference yesterday with her parents and Cedars’ leadership there to support! Jenna truly exemplifies what it means to be a team player and her compassion is palpable. “She is a team player and so willing to help. Jenna’s end goal is always excellent patient care.” states Nursing Administrative Coordinator, Debra Russell. Jenna puts the residents first and truly defines the practice of person-centered care. Jenna joined The Cedars as a CNA in long-term care in 2017 and has continued her education enrolling in an Associates nursing program this past fall. We could not be prouder of Jenna and know she will continue to grow and thrive in her field, touching...
Did you know that The Cedars is recognized by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement – IHI as an Age-Friendly Health System – Committed to Care Excellence. The Cedars is recognized by IHI as a leader in this rapidly growing movement committed to care of older adults that is: • Guided by an essential set of age-friendly, evidence-based practices across the 4Ms (What Matters, Medication, Mentation, and Mobility); • Causes no harms; and • Is consistent with What Matters to the older adult and their family. This is an exciting movement and there is much to be proud of as, together, we improve the health and health care of older adults....
Under the auspices of Spiritual Care Services of Maine, Sally Thomas has been providing chaplain services at The Cedars since June of 2023. She visits each of four Cedars neighborhoods once a month, offering both one on one pastoral care and group conversation. In each neighborhood she works with the Lifestyles Managers to help her understand what might be interesting or useful and then makes plans for conversation for each setting. Like many chaplains she knows, much of her training was gotten in a medical setting–in her case, during the many years she worked as an RN in oncology. Her monthly visits to the Atrium follow a pattern: first she checks with participants giving each a chance to share what’s on their mind; then she presents a story, usually with material props of some kind, to provide a basis for spiritual conversation. (At a recent meeting, in telling an...
On July 25, 2023, Dr. Susan Wehry spoke about Optimal Engagement at a cocktail party held at the home of Judy Glickman Lauder and Leonard Lauder. Bernard Osher was recognized for his contribution to this important project. The Cedars partnered with the University of New England (UNE) to study better supports for people with dementia. An interdisciplinary group of UNE graduate students in healthcare fields dug deep into scientific literature to identify best practices, evidence-based strategies, and gaps in knowledge under the direction of Susan Wehry, MD, Associate Clinical Professor, UNE College of Medicine, who co-leads the initiative with Angela Hunt, RPT, MS, our Chief Innovation Officer. The team’s recommendations will be reviewed by panels which include people living with dementia. This feedback and insight will inform the development of widely accepted, person-centered best practices that will have a transformative impact on older adults living with dementia and their...
At the Lunder Memory Care Assisted Living Household, we believe that people with an Alzheimer’s and/or a dementia diagnosis, can continue to engage in meaningful activities and participate in their overall health and wellness when receiving support from healthcare partners trained in their specific needs. For each person, the dementia journey will be different, and the needs will change along the way with time. At the Lunder Memory Care Household, we believe that through careful and thoughtful evaluation and intervention, we can anticipate and prepare for predicted changes in cognitive function. Our interdisciplinary team approach provides opportunities for successful socialization, choice, personal care, and self-direction, all within the environment of home. Care is organized around resident choices and preferences for the day. Our program identifies strengths and allows for resident positive interactions enhancing resident self-worth and life satisfaction. Commitment: The Lunder Memory Care Program Offers residents a daily person-centered...
Exercising in the water is low impact and delivers tremendous benefits to your cardiovascular and respiratory systems, not to mention, it can be a lot of fun! When you exercise in the water you are generally able to do a lot more than your body may allow on dry land. Along with some increased flexibility and balance, the push and pull of the water allow both increased muscle training and a built-in safety barrier for joints. The water also helps to reduce lactic acid buildup and offers a gentler natural resistance while training. Aquacising at The Atrium is offered three times a week on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The class is a go at your own pace and begins at 9:15am and lasts until 10:00am. The trainer stands outside of the water giving instructions and motivating the participants. Join a class today! ...