Winter is a time where we all crave extra comfort. Whether that’s curling up in a warm blanket with a good book or cooking a delicious, hearty meal. We’re here to help with the latter. It’s definitely soup season here at Lester Senior Living and our chefs love to cook up every type from the classic matzo ball soup to the more intricate lime in chicken. This particular soup is not only delectable, but also freezes well. Meaning, it can be enjoyed again later with minimal preparation effort – perfect for a lazy, snow day.
Ingredients for Lime in Chicken Soup:
How to Make Lime in Chicken Soup:
Seniors Dine in Style Everyday at Lester Senior Living in NJ The residents at Lester Senior Living have the option to eat in our spacious dining room for breakfast, lunch and dinner every single day if they’d like! Most of them do, especially since the dining room has been completely renovated. Either way, there is no pressure! The culinary-trained chefs at Lester understand that some residents may have dietary restrictions, kosher preferences or prefer take-out and will gladly accommodate in any way they can. For more information about our senior dining services in Morris County, NJ, please give us a call today – we’d love to have you over for lunch! You could also visit our website to learn more about what it’s like to reside at Lester Senior Living: https://jchcorp.org/ *This recipe was inspired by the High Holiday Cookbook. Original Source: https://jchcorp.org/lime-in-chicken-soup-winter-comfort-food
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Winter is a challenging time of the year for all homeowners, especially seniors who are more susceptible to the harsh elements and could use the extra help preparing for the ice and snow that’s not letting up anytime soon. Things like picking up extra warm clothing and scheduling HVAC maintenance can ensure your loved ones stay warm and safe through the rest of the season. In this article, we’ll discuss what absolutely needs to be done to winterize your senior parents’ home. Our team at Lester Senior Living will also shed light on perhaps a better alternative for everyone involved.
Insulation and Draft-proofing: If mom is always complaining about a draft, start by checking the insulation of the home. Proper insulation helps in retaining heat and reducing energy costs. Identify and seal any drafts around windows and doors. Weather-stripping and caulking are effective methods to keep the cold air out and the warmth in. Heating Systems: Ensure that the heating systems are in optimal condition. Regular maintenance of furnaces, boilers, and space heaters is essential, especially if you notice their heating system making strange noises or turning off unexpectedly. Seniors should have their heating systems inspected by professionals before winter sets in to avoid any unexpected breakdowns. Warm Bedding and Clothing: Next time you’re at the store, pick up some warm bedding such as extra blankets, comforters, and flannel sheets. Drop them off to your loved one and encourage them to wear layered clothing to maintain body heat and add extra layers to their bed. A cozy and warm bed is not only comforting, but also contributes to a good night’s sleep – which is key to keeping illnesses away. Fall Prevention Measures: Winter often brings slippery surfaces. To prevent falls, make sure the walkways and stairs in the home are clear of ice and snow. Use non-slip mats both inside and outside the house. Additionally, consider installing handrails for extra support. Emergency Preparedness: Make sure your senior parent has a stash of emergency supplies such as flashlights, blankets, non-perishable food, and medications. In case of power outages, having a backup generator or access to emergency services is crucial for their safety. This is extremely important if you live a bit out of the way and won’t be able to get to them right then and there. Regular Check-ins and Communication: Loneliness can be heightened during the winter months. Regular check-ins by not only you, but other friends, family, or neighbors can provide your loved one with much-needed emotional support. Ensure your senior parent also has access to a cellphone and knows how to reach out for help if needed. Winterizing Windows: Use thermal curtains to keep the cold air out and the warm air in. If applicable, consider installing storm windows for added insulation. These measures not only conserve energy, but also create a more comfortable living space for mom or dad. Humidity Control: Maintaining optimal humidity levels can make the indoor environment feel warmer without actually turning up the heat. Encourage your loved one to use humidifiers around the house to add moisture to the air, in order to prevent dry skin and respiratory issues. Seniors Stay Safe and Warm at Lester Senior Living in Morris CountyWhile these tips are beneficial for seniors living independently, those residing in assisted living facilities like Lester Senior Living in Morris County can enjoy added peace of mind. Our residents don’t have to give a second thought to winterizing their apartments. At Lester Senior Living, dedicated staff members are on call 24/7 to ensure all of our seniors are safe, comfortable and happy all year round. Whether that’s providing them with extra warm clothing or getting a maintenance person on-site to fix their thermostat, our team can provide assistance at the drop of a hat. For more information about how we keep seniors safe and entertained during the cold months, please give us a call or visit our website at: https://jchcorp.org/ Original Source: https://jchcorp.org/essential-tips-for-winterizing-a-seniors-home/ Early diagnosis is crucial for providing appropriate care and support to those with dementia. Properly diagnosing this life-altering condition early allows the person with dementia to be more involved in decision making and planning for future care. This is crucial because unfortunately there will come a time when the individual won’t be able to recall short-term memories so easily, if at all. Not to mention, early diagnosis can help keep more unfavorable dementia symptoms at bay like depression, anxiety, and side effects from medications. One valuable tool in this diagnostic process is the Mini Mental Status Exam (MMSE). In this article, our dedicated memory care team at Lester Senior Living in Morris County will cover the basics of the MMSE and its role in screening for dementia.
The Mini Mental Status Exam (MMSE)The MMSE, or Mini Mental Status Exam, is a widely used screening tool designed to assess cognitive function and detect signs of dementia. Developed by Dr. Marshal F. Folstein and others in 1975, the test is a brief yet comprehensive evaluation that covers various cognitive domains, including memory, attention, language and visuospatial skills. Understanding the MMSE EvaluationThe MMSE consists of a series of questions and tasks that assess different aspects of cognitive function. These may include recalling a series of words, performing simple arithmetic, and following verbal and written instructions. The test typically takes around 10 to 15 minutes to complete and provides a numerical score that helps healthcare professionals gauge the severity of cognitive impairment. This exam plays a pivotal role in the initial stages of a dementia diagnosis. The MMSE’s ability to identify cognitive deficits can guide healthcare professionals in determining the appropriate course of action. Early detection allows for timely intervention and the implementation of support systems to enhance the individual’s quality of life. Limitations of the MMSEWhile the MMSE is a valuable tool, it’s important to acknowledge its limitations. The exam is a great starting point, but relying solely on the MMSE may not provide a complete picture of an individual’s cognitive health. It is crucial to consider other major factors, such as the person’s overall health, how they function on a daily basis, and input from close family members and caregivers. Moving Beyond the MMSE: Professional Memory Care in Morris County, NJWhile the MMSE is an essential first step to diagnosis, people with dementia often require more specialized care. At Lester Senior Living, we understand the unique needs of seniors with dementia. Our senior memory care program goes beyond the basics, offering specialized assistance, proven activities to retain cognition, and dementia-safe living spaces. Our thriving senior living community in Morris County provides a supportive environment where residents can maintain their independence, while receiving the care they truly need. Our dedicated memory care team works tirelessly to create a personalized care plan that addresses each resident’s challenges and promotes a higher quality of life than what they would receive at home. If your loved one is suffering from dementia, consider the holistic approach of our senior memory care program in Morris County, NJ. For more information, please give our team a call today or visit our website at: https://jchcorp.org Original Source: https://jchcorp.org/what-is-the-mmse-and-how-does-it-screen-for-dementia/ We have all heard the stereotype about older adults being resistant to using technology, or outright refusing to learn how to use it, but the reality is that senior-friendly digital technologies are on the rise. The older generations are becoming more tech-savvy as they learn that certain technologies can empower them to be independent, both at home and in assisted living. From medication reminders to communicating with their healthcare providers to video calls with family and friends, technology helps many older adults retain their independence while keeping them safe. In this article, our senior activities coordinators will discuss how we use technology here at Lester Senior Living to improve the quality of life for our residents.
Innovative Technology for Seniors: Enhancing Safety and Connectivity
Elevating Connection in the Digital AgeMaintaining connections to friends, family, and community as we get older is crucial. Our mental, physical, and emotional well-being is directly impacted by the ties we have with our loved ones, and maintaining an active social life should be a priority. Technology allows seniors to keep those important connections alive by making it easy to video call with family and friends, schedule reservations for classes at the local senior center, email with long-distance friends, and use social media to get important updates on your loved ones’ lives. How Lester Senior Living Can Help Seniors Become More Digitally Savvy in Assisted LivingAt our premier senior living community in Morris County, we have technology experts who help our residents with all of their communication via smartphones and computers to ensure they stay connected to their loved ones. We’ve seen first-hand how older adults are embracing technology and how they’re using it to empower themselves to be more independent. While it can seem overwhelming at first, with a little bit of patience we know your loved one can get the hang of it. Soon they’ll be experimenting with different features and apps that will give your teenager at home a run for their money! For more information about senior technology assistance, or if you’d like to learn more about the amenities, we offer at our JCHC senior communities in NJ, please give us a call or visit our website at: https://jchcorp.org Original Source: https://jchcorp.org/how-technology-can-empower-senior-independence-in-assisted-living While Rosh Hashanah has passed quite some time ago, that doesn’t mean we have to stop celebrating the traditional New Year. Especially with some delicious, staple holiday food in the mix! If you’re having a New Years Day celebration, a January birthday, or you’d just like to have some extra company over for Shabbat, this Tzimmes recipe is to die for! The best part is that this recipe can be completely cooled down and frozen – which is ideal if you’re the type of person who likes to plan ahead. The chefs at Lester Senior Living recommend starting this recipe at least a day before you’re ready to serve guests.
Ingredients for Tzimmes:
Directions to Make Tzimmes:
Serving Tzimmes and other Traditional Israeli Fare to Seniors in Morris County While Lester Senior Living welcomes seniors of all faiths, we do stay true to our roots in Judaism. Which means we incorporate Jewish traditions into our care model. Whether that’s through on-site synagogue services or the food that’s served, we do our best to keep Judaism alive and thriving in our senior community! Our culinary trained chefs are constantly trying out new recipes, but also make sure to include staple Israeli foods each month like tzimmes, matzo ball soup and challah bread – to name a few. To learn more about how we incorporate the Jewish tradition at Lester Senior Living in Morris County or our other senior communities in NJ, please give us a call or visit our website at: https://jchcorp.org *Recipe was based off of the High Holiday Cookbook by Recustom. Original Source: https://jchcorp.org/best-tzimmes-for-the-best-new-year Some days it’s as simple as asking, and other days you have to literally jump through hoops and hire a string quartet to get your loved one to take their medications. Convincing seniors to stick to their medication regimen requires patience, understanding, and creative strategies. Hiring a string quartet definitely counts as a creative strategy, but is not realistic each day. Fortunately, there are more effective and practical ways to encourage your loved one to take their prescriptions accurately and on time. Our senior caregivers at Lester Senior Living are here to help on those days that aren’t so easy with these invaluable tips:
Understanding Their ConcernsBefore diving into convincing tactics, it’s crucial to understand why your senior parent might be hesitant to take their medications. Common concerns include fear of side effects, forgetfulness, or a general mistrust of medications. Being empathetic towards their concerns and addressing the root issue is the first step towards finding an effective solution. If mom is scared of vomiting from the medication, ask her if it’s happened before. If it has, you should call her doctor and discuss another alternative. Open CommunicationKeep an open and honest line of communication open about the importance of their medications. Discuss the potential benefits and the positive impact it will have on your senior parent’s overall health. As we briefly mentioned, always encourage your loved one to share their concerns and be receptive to their feelings. This helps build trust and a more collaborative approach to their healthcare moving forward. Simplify Medication ManagementSeniors often have multiple medications to take, leading to confusion and frustration. Or worse, taking the medication doses incorrectly could result in very unfavorable side effects like vomiting, diarrhea, and disorientation. Simplify this process by using pill organizers, setting up a schedule, or even exploring medications that can be combined. Make the routine as straightforward as possible to reduce any harmful side effects. Incorporate into Daily RoutinesIntegrate medication time into existing daily routines, making it a natural part of their day. This could be linked to meals, while watching their favorite TV shows, or after their morning yoga session. Creating consistency helps form a habit, making it easier for seniors to remember and adhere to their medication schedule. Positive ReinforcementOffer positive reinforcement when your senior parent takes their medications correctly. Praise and rewards can go a long way in keeping them motivated! Giving your loved one their favorite snack for example creates a positive association with medication time and reinforces the importance of compliance. Use Technology Technology can be your right hand man to keeping your loved one on schedule. Smartphone apps, medication management systems, or even simple alarms can serve as effective tools to prompt seniors to take their medications on time. Involve Healthcare Professionals if NecessarySeek guidance from healthcare professionals, such as doctors or pharmacists, to explain the necessity of medications to your senior parent. Sometimes, hearing it from a trusted professional can have a more profound impact. Medication Management and Other Senior Care Services Provided in Assisted LivingWhile implementing these strategies can significantly improve medication adherence, it’s important to recognize that each individual is unique. Some seniors may require more personalized approaches. This is where assisted living facilities like Lester Senior Living in Morris County, NJ, can offer invaluable support. At Lester Senior Living, we thoroughly understand the challenges of medication management and can provide tailored solutions to senior residents. Our on-site caregivers not only ensure medications are administered and documented promptly, but also take the time to discover “tricks of the trade” that work specifically for your senior parent. This personalized care fosters a supportive environment that promotes overall wellness and peace of mind for both seniors and their families. To learn more about senior medication management and other assisted living services provided by Lester Senior Living in Morris County, please give us a call or visit us at: https://jchcorp.org Original Source: https://jchcorp.org/how-to-convince-seniors-to-take-their-medications/ As the years unfold, maintaining good balance becomes a critical component of overall well-being for seniors. The adage “use it or lose it” holds particularly true when it comes to balance. Not only does balance contribute to an active and independent senior lifestyle, but it also serves as a strong defense against the risk of potentially disastrous falls. Even if a walker is part of the equation, practicing balance exercises cannot be overlooked. Especially because balance is often taken for granted until it starts to waver. For seniors, a decline in balance can lead to a host of issues, from a loss of mobility and independence to an increased susceptibility to injuries. Fortunately, incorporating simple balance exercises into a daily routine can make a world of difference. Let’s take a closer look:
Key Balance Exercises for Seniors
In the quest for optimal senior wellness, finding a community that prioritizes activities and exercises is paramount. We believe our Lester Senior Living in Morris County stands out as a beacon of support for seniors looking to enhance their balance and overall health. Here’s why: 24/7 Access to Tailored Exercise Classes Our commitment to resident well-being goes beyond providing a comfortable living environment. Lester Senior Living offers around-the-clock access to a variety of activities and exercise classes specifically designed for seniors. Whether it’s a morning “Stretch and Flex” class or an afternoon session of chair yoga, there’s always an opportunity for residents to engage in activities that contribute to better balance and overall vitality. Not to mention, we have professionally trained caregivers monitoring each class in case a resident needs support or modifications to more easily take part in the activity. Community Support and Camaraderie Staying active is not just about the exercises, it’s about the community around you. Lester Senior Living fosters a supportive environment where residents can motivate each other, share experiences, and build lasting connections. This sense of camaraderie adds an extra layer of encouragement for seniors to stay committed to their wellness journey. For more information on Lester Senior Living in Morris County and the daily wellness programs we offer to senior residents, please give us a call or visit our website: https://jchcorp.org/ Original Source: https://jchcorp.org/it-all-hangs-in-the-balance/ There’s nothing wrong with traditional holiday recipes. In fact, we’re sure a majority of you look forward to certain Hanukkah staples every year like brisket and kugel. However, there is also nothing wrong with wanting to mix it up. You know, you could always “challah” at us for a great new recipe. If you’re looking for a twist (pun intended) on a classic Hanukkah food dish, check out the JCHC’s signature pretzel challah bread. We think your guests will enjoy this reimagined challah – especially if they spend a lot of time watching America’s pastime at the ballpark.
Ingredients for 1 Loaf of Pretzel Challah Bread: Step 1
The senior living residents at Lester have the option to eat in our spacious dining room for breakfast, lunch and dinner every single day if they so choose! Whether they are Jewish or not, residents can enjoy many staples from our culture like challah bread, matzo ball soup, latkes, and so much more. Our dining services team understands that some residents may have dietary allergies or preferences and will gladly modify any recipe to suit their needs. For more information about our dining services for seniors in Morris County, NJ, please give the team at Lester Senior Living a call today. You could also visit the JCHC website to learn more about what assisted living and independent living look like at one our our senior communities in New Jersey: https://jchcorp.org/ Original Source: https://jchcorp.org/pretzel-challah-bread-recipe/ Whether your loved one has recently moved to JCHC’s Lester Senior Living community or has been a long-time resident, don’t stress about rearranging plans for Hanukkah. One of the best things about senior living in the Jewish tradition, is keeping all the holiday traditions you know and love going. At Lester Senior Living, we have already made plans for Hanukkah that all of our residents – and their families – are welcome to join! Hanukkah is known for 8 nights of celebrations, so here are 8 special Hanukkah activities planned for our senior residents this year. If mom or dad is new to our community, please share this list with them and encourage them to get involved in all the excitement!
#1. “Light Up The Night” Annual Hanukkah Party. Hosted in the Weston Lobby, our annual Hanukkah party is always a big hit amongst the residents – and staff as well! This year’s party will feature live entertainment by the TKlez Band, lots of dancing, delicious Sufganiyot doughnuts and more! #2. Hanukkah Bingo. What can make Bingo even more fun? Trading out traditional bingo cards for Hanukkah themed cards featuring symbols like menorahs, dreidels and challah bread! First one to shout, “Bingo!” may even receive a prize. #3. Weston Hanukkah Brunch. If mom can’t make it to your “Feast of Dedication” this year, join her for a morning Hanukkah brunch instead! Our dining services team is hard at work finalizing the special menu, consisting of staples like matzo ball soup, kugel and latkes. #4. Hanukkah Trivia. How well does your loved one know the story behind Hanukkah? This special trivia session will test out our residents’ holiday spirit by only featuring questions related to Hanukkah. #5. Dreidel Competition. “Dreidel, dreidel, dreidel, with dreidel WE shall play!” Our annual Dreidel Competition is always a resident favorite here at Lester Senior Living. So much so, that we’ve already seen residents practicing their spinning skills. Plus, the winner of the competition will receive a special prize! #6. Hanukkah Film Festival. A twist on our weekly movie matinees and movie nights. The Hanukkah Film Festival, hosted in Lester’s newly renovated cinema-style movie theater, will feature a variety of films, documentaries and music – all related to this joyous holiday! #7. “I Love You A Latke” Special Cooking Club Class. Food is the way to anyone’s heart. This sentiment is especially true during the holidays. If your loved one is looking to bake some delicious Hanukkah staples, encourage them to join our “I Love You A Latke” cooking club class. For those who may not know, Lester Senior Living has many activity clubs, some even started by the residents themselves. Cooking club is one of our more popular clubs at our senior living facility, so of course it’s a no-brainer to host a seasonal class for Hanukkah. #8. Shabbat, Maariv, Torah and More. Did you know that we have a chapel on site? Residents are welcome to join us for Shabbat every Friday in the chapel. We also host weekly Torah and Maariv services with our rabbi. Every year, we host a special service in the chapel for Hanukkah. Please check our Lester Senior Living Activities Calendar for the date in December. If our residents have family coming to visit, they are more than welcome to join us for a service. Celebrating Hanukkah at our Senior Living Communities in NJ Hanukkah Sameach from all of us at JCHC! If you’d like to know more about senior care in the Jewish tradition, or about how we are celebrating Hanukkah at our other JCHC senior living communities, please call us today. Our teams will do everything possible to ensure our residents and their families make the most of the holiday season. To learn more about the activities, amenities and care services we offer seniors in Morris and Essex County, please visit our website at: https://jchcorp.org/ Original Source: https://jchcorp.org/8-nights-of-hanukkah-celebrations-at-the-jchc/ The cultural and societal stereotypes associated with getting older have changed dramatically in our lifetime. Older adults used to be viewed as generally less able than younger people, however our world has always been full of inspirational seniors who defy the stereotypes and embrace their independence. With the holidays approaching, there’s no time like the present to acknowledge our senior loved ones who are aging with grace and grit. It’s important to empower the seniors in our lives to follow their passions and explore new hobbies as they enjoy these precious years. If your loved one is feeling down – which happens more often than we think this time of year – share this list we compiled of seniors who are just unstoppable. More importantly, let your loved one know, if these seniors can do it – so can they!
How to Age with Grace and Grit Aging can be a hugely positive experience, but it’s all about having the right attitude. Many people work their whole lives and aren’t sure what to do with themselves when they retire. It’s more than common for older adults to feel bored, lost, and listless when they are supposed to be enjoying their new and “permanent” time off. While taking some time to just relax is essential, it’s also important to have a purpose. That’s where we come in. At JCHC, our active senior living communities offer a huge range of activities for people of all different abilities. Most, if not all, the activities we provide are designed to enhance all aspects of senior health – mind, body, and soul. Whether your senior loved one wants to try gardening, crafting, dancing, learning a new instrument, or some other activity, we believe in giving all of our residents the chance to discover new passions and interests – no matter how late in life! Because really, it’s never too late to try and excel in something new. Here’s proof of that: Ageless Icons
If your loved one is feeling inspired and ready to take on some new challenges, encouraging them to start small and stay consistent can yield great results. Perhaps they can start being more active by taking a 30-minute walk every morning, or they can visit their local gym and see what classes are offered to seniors. Staying mentally fit is just as important as staying physically fit, and your loved one can work on their mental acuity by reading, doing puzzles and engaging in other brain teasers. Sometimes taking the first step is the hardest part, so it’s important that you support your senior parent as they embark upon this exciting new phase of their life. Whether you physically take part in or verbally show support for your loved one’s new venture, it will only help to build their confidence to keep moving forward! As you can see, our world is full of inspirational seniors who don’t let their age stop them from living life to the fullest. We’re lucky to be surrounded by many inspirational seniors at our independent senior living communities in Morris and Essex County, NJ, and we are constantly amazed by their unstoppable spirit and tenacity every day. If you’d like to learn more about our senior communities and how we enhance the quality of life for our residents in New Jersey, please contact one of our teams at JCHC today and visit our website at: https://jchcorp.org Original Source: https://jchcorp.org/age-is-just-a-number-for-these-inspirational-seniors/ |
AuthorWe offer seniors a range of options in terms of housing, services, amenities, location and cost, all within the Jewish tradition: independent living, assisted living, memory care, respite, affordable housing, enriching programs, and on-site services for our residents, many of whom have special needs. Archives
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