Author: Kennybrook Village

February is American Heart Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about cardiovascular health. For seniors, prioritizing heart health is essential for maintaining an active and fulfilling lifestyle. At Kennybrook Village, we encourage our residents to embrace wellness by focusing on heart-healthy habits, staying socially engaged, and enjoying life to the fullest.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of heart health, provide practical wellness tips, and explain how our senior living community supports a heart-conscious lifestyle.

Why Heart Health Matters for Seniors

Heart disease remains one of the leading health concerns for older adults. As we age, our heart and blood vessels undergo changes that can increase the risk of cardiovascular conditions such as high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes. However, with the right lifestyle choices, many heart-related issues can be prevented or managed effectively.

Common Risk Factors for Heart Disease:

• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Often called the “silent killer,” high blood pressure increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
• High Cholesterol: Excess cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, restricting blood flow.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity can weaken the heart muscle and contribute to obesity.
• Poor Diet: Diets high in saturated fats, processed foods, and sodium can negatively impact heart health.
• Smoking and Excess Alcohol Consumption: Both habits increase blood pressure and damage blood vessels.
• Stress and Mental Health: Chronic stress and depression can have direct effects on heart health.

Understanding these risk factors allows seniors to make proactive choices to protect their cardiovascular health.

Heart-Healthy Lifestyle Tips

A few simple lifestyle changes can make a significant impact on overall heart health. Here are some key habits that promote a strong and healthy heart:

1. Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet

A balanced diet is one of the most effective ways to support heart health. Consider incorporating:

• Fruits and Vegetables: Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Whole Grains: Oats, brown rice, and quinoa help lower cholesterol.
• Lean Proteins: Fish, skinless poultry, and plant-based proteins like beans and nuts.
• Healthy Fats: Avocados, olive oil, and nuts provide heart-boosting benefits.
• Low-Sodium Foods: Reducing salt intake helps manage blood pressure.

2. Stay Physically Active

Regular exercise strengthens the heart, improves circulation, and enhances overall well-being. Consider:

• Walking Clubs: A simple daily walk boosts heart function.
• Chair Yoga or Stretching: Gentle movement improves flexibility and circulation.
• Water Aerobics: Low-impact and great for joint health.
• Strength Training: Helps maintain muscle mass and bone health.

3. Manage Stress and Mental Well-Being

Chronic stress can lead to high blood pressure and other heart-related concerns. To manage stress:

• Practice Mindfulness: Deep breathing and meditation can promote relaxation.
• Engage in Hobbies: Gardening, painting, or playing music can bring joy and reduce stress.
• Socialize Regularly: Strong social connections improve emotional and physical well-being.

4. Get Regular Health Screenings

Routine check-ups help detect and manage health conditions early. Seniors should:

• Monitor Blood Pressure and Cholesterol: Regular screenings help prevent complications.
• Discuss Medications with a Doctor: Ensure prescriptions support heart health.
• Stay Up to Date on Vaccines: Flu and pneumonia vaccines help prevent complications that can strain the heart.

How Kennybrook Village Supports Heart Health

At Kennybrook Village, we believe in promoting a heart-conscious lifestyle through engaging activities, nutritious dining options, and supportive wellness programs. Here’s how we help residents prioritize heart health:

Delicious and Nutritious Dining Options

Our culinary team prepares well-balanced meals with fresh ingredients to support cardiovascular wellness. We offer:

• Heart-healthy menu options with low-sodium and high-fiber choices.
• Dietitian-approved meals tailored to individual dietary needs.
• Cooking classes to educate residents about preparing nutritious meals.

Engaging in Social and Mental Wellness Activities

We recognize that emotional well-being plays a crucial role in heart health. Our community offers:

• Group outings, social gatherings, and hobby clubs to foster connections.
• Relaxation sessions, meditation classes, and stress management workshops.
• Support groups and wellness talks with healthcare professionals.

Celebrate Heart Month with Us!

This February, we invite residents and families to join us in celebrating American Heart Month. Whether it’s participating in a heart-healthy cooking class, attending a fitness session, or simply sharing a laugh with friends, every small step contributes to a healthier heart and a happier life.

If you or a loved one are interested in learning more about our senior living community and the heart-focused wellness programs we offer, contact us today. We’d love to help you embrace a heart-healthy lifestyle with comfort, care, and community!

Stay healthy. Stay happy. Stay heart-strong. ❤️

Thanksgiving is the perfect time for gratitude, togetherness, and celebration. It’s also an opportunity to connect with family and friends young and old. And sometimes, it’s fun to start new traditions too!

Here are ten Thanksgiving activities and ideas for anyone ages 1-100 that just might become new traditions in your family.

Thanksgiving Recipe Swap

Seniors have a lot of Thanksgivings under their belt, which means they have plenty of favorite holiday recipes. Share recipe collections that bring generations together.

Gratitude Jar

A gratitude jar is a simple way to reflect on the blessings of the past year. Seniors should write down what they’re grateful for throughout the year and place the notes in a decorated jar. Then they read them on Thanksgiving Day with family—bonus points if you can get everyone to do this!

Thanksgiving-Themed Crafting

Crafting brings joy and creativity, and there are plenty of Thanksgiving-themed crafts to try! Ideas include decorating pumpkins, making autumn wreaths, or creating homemade Thanksgiving cards for family and friends.

Classic Thanksgiving Movies and Shows

Watching Thanksgiving-themed films or parades from around the country is a great way for seniors to relax and feel part of the holiday spirit. Consider movies like A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving or watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Fall Nature Walks

For seniors who enjoy the outdoors, a peaceful fall walk can be refreshing. Whether they go with family or on their own, they can soak up the autumn colors and appreciate the season’s beauty.

Donate Harvest Baskets

If you or your older family members have a garden or get some extra produce from the grocery store or farmer’s market, assemble a harvest-themed basket with vegetables, fruits, nuts, and canned goods to donate to food pantries.

Thanksgiving Bingo

Bingo is a timeless game that can be customized for Thanksgiving. Bingo boards could feature images like pumpkins, pies, and turkeys to add a holiday twist.

Cook Dishes Together

Seniors who enjoy cooking can try classic Thanksgiving recipes, like pumpkin pie or stuffing (or dressing as Southerners like to say). For those who prefer a hands-off approach, they can support a local business and cater their Thanksgiving meals.

Share Thanksgiving Stories

Sharing stories from past Thanksgivings can bring back cherished memories and strengthen family bonds. Family members can take turns sharing memorable moments. This is especially great for seniors to share their stories with younger family members who don’t know what life was like decades ago.

Helping with Table Setting and Decorating

Setting the table can be a fulfilling activity for seniors because it gives them something to do and they feel helpful. Plus, it adds a festive touch to the celebration. They can arrange decorations, fold napkins, or place name cards, making the dining area special and festive for the holiday.

How Will You Incorporate New Traditions this Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving is a unique opportunity to celebrate life, share stories, and appreciate the time we have together. Fill your holiday season with these senior-friendly activities. And however you choose to celebrate, we hope you have a warm and wonderful Thanksgiving.

We are thrilled to announce that Kennybrook Village has been honored with Telligen’s esteemed B.E.S.T. in Class award, recognizing our unwavering dedication to providing exceptional care to our residents. This recognition from Telligen, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Quality Innovation Network-Quality Improvement Organization (QIN-QIO) for Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, and Oklahoma, is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our entire team.

The B.E.S.T. in Class award acknowledges nursing homes within the Telligen QI ConnectTM network that have excelled in four critical areas, ensuring the safety and quality of care for residents. These areas include:

1. Blue Ribbon in COVID-19 Vigilance Award: Kennybrook Village has demonstrated exceptional vigilance and management in combating the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, earning the Blue Ribbon in COVID-19 Vigilance Award for three quarters in 2023.
2. Emergency Preparedness Assessment: Our team has completed Telligen’s Emergency Preparedness Assessment, ensuring readiness to handle any unforeseen emergencies effectively.
3. Infection Prevention and Control Training: Over 75% of our staff have completed rigorous infection prevention and control training, highlighting our commitment to maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our residents.
4. Reducing Preventable Emergency Department Visits: Kennybrook Village has successfully reduced the number of preventable emergency department visits by 5%, demonstrating our dedication to proactive care and minimizing unnecessary hospitalizations.

We extend our sincerest gratitude to Telligen for recognizing our efforts and applauding our significant accomplishments. This prestigious award motivates us to continue striving for excellence in all aspects of resident care.

This achievement belongs to each member of the Kennybrook Village family. Together, we have gone above and beyond to provide safe, compassionate, and high-quality care to our residents. Thank you for your dedication and commitment to excellence.

Let us continue to strive for greatness and make a positive difference in the lives of those we serve.