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Tending a garden is just as much a reward for the heart as it is for the stomach. Eating food from your backyard fills you with pride and excitement. And the best part about gardening is that anyone can do it! Here’s what you need to know to start and maintain your garden and a list of easy-to-maintain plants.

Setting Up Your Garden

Before you start hopping along and planting everything you’ve ever wanted in your garden, here are a few things every senior should do to set their garden up for success.

1. Location, location, location: The location of your garden is the first criterion for success. Plants need lots of sunlight to fully grow, so keep track of which part of your yard gets the most sun. The last thing you want is to plant tomatoes in the shade!
2. Good things come in small packages: If this is the first time you’re gardening, start small. Find a few pots or planters to grow your first garden. Starting with a small garden builds your confidence over the years and is easier to maintain.
3. Keep water nearby: When you pick out your location for your garden, check to see how far it is from your water supply. It may not seem like a big deal when it’s 60℉ outside to carry water to and from your garden hose, but once it’s 90℉, the situation becomes a lot more dangerous and tiresome. If the garden hose can’t reach on its own, consider an extension or moving your garden closer to the hose.

Three Types of Plants for Seniors to Grow in Their Garden

With thousands of options available, what should you grow in your garden? Do you want to eat fruits and vegetables or go to a flower garden? If you’re limited on space, should you grow vertically?

Regardless of what you choose and your situation, here are three types of plants you can grow in your garden that are easy to maintain.

1.   Herbs

No matter how much space you have, herbs are easy to grow, don’t require a lot of room, and smell wonderful. Plus, the options are endless. We highly recommend you grow herbs and spices you typically eat and cook with to save precious space.

2.   Flowers

A flower garden is less effort than growing produce, and it’s just as beautiful! Consider annuals, perennials, and leafy vines to add character and charm to your garden during the year.

3.   Vines and Bushes

Make the most of limited gardening space by growing vines and bushy plants in a vertical garden. You can grow peas, peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, and even some melons (with some extra support) in a vertical garden.

Make the Most of Your Garden

Gardening might seem overwhelming at first, but with the right setup, you and your garden can thrive this year. Spend some time setting your garden up for success with the right location, water supply, and plant selection. Happy gardening, friends!

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.

Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, so you know what that means… early spring! Or at least that’s what we’ve been told. Whether or not you believe the world-famous groundhog, spring will definitely arrive, so it’s time to start thinking about spring cleaning!

Although it can be a bit of work, spring cleaning is a great time to declutter and get some movement after being cooped up all winter. Here are some practical tips for seniors to follow over the next few weeks.

1. Make a List (And Check It Twice)

Spring cleaning can be overwhelming, especially for seniors. Start by making a list of every room they need to clean. Then, write down what needs to happen in each room. It might look like this:

Bedroom

• Vacuum
• Wipe down dresser and mirror
• Clean blinds
• Clean ceiling fan
• Change blanket/quilt/duvet/comforter

Bathroom

• Sweep/mop floors
• Wipe counters and mirror
• Clean toilet
• Clean tub
• Restock garbage bags

Kitchen

• Wipe counters
• Clean appliances
• Clean out cabinets
• Get rid of unused kitchen tools and appliances

Once your senior has a list made, they can start cleaning! Remember, a list is supposed to guide them, not overwhelm them or stress them out. It doesn’t have to all get done in one weekend.

2. Declutter with Purpose

Decluttering can be exhausting—physically and emotionally. They may have to get rid of things that have a story and bring back memories. Let them take their time to avoid exhaustion.

As your senior starts to declutter, it’s best to have a system to help them stay on top of things. There are a lot of cleaning hacks out there, but a tried and true one is to categorize things by the last time they used it.

Haven’t used a set of mixing bowls because they prefer another set? Get rid of the first one!

Haven’t worn a shirt or pants in 6-8 months? Donate it or try to resell it!

Take this opportunity to declutter their belongings. Start with items they no longer use or need. Consider donating, recycling, or disposing of them responsibly.

3. Get Some Help

Cleaning a home is a tall task for anyone, especially seniors. The last thing any elderly person should do is attempt to clean by themselves. There’s just too much risk when you account for slipping, navigating around obstacles, and climbing ladders to clean hard-to-reach places.

That’s why it’s time for children and grandchildren to help out. And if the family isn’t nearby, see if some neighbors or people from church and the community center can help. There are also some great companies that can assist with decluttering and/or cleaning.

Happy Cleaning!

Spring cleaning is a great way to start the year fresh and create some space. And for seniors, it can really help them set the tone for the year and start on a high note. It’s an opportunity to refresh their living spaces and promote a sense of well-being. Give these tips a try in the coming weeks.

In the realm of senior care, excellence is not just a goal; it’s a standard that defines the best of the best. And in the heart of our community, Kennybrook Village has once again proven itself as a beacon of excellence, securing not just one, but four prestigious awards from Pinnacle Quality Insight – An HCP Company, a renowned customer satisfaction firm in the healthcare industry.

In a recent press release, Bud Meadows, CEO of Home Care Pulse, the parent company of Pinnacle Quality Insight, proudly announced Kennybrook Village’s outstanding achievements. Through comprehensive interviews and assessments conducted over the past year, Kennybrook Village emerged as a shining example of excellence in customer satisfaction.

The first accolade bestowed upon Kennybrook Village is the esteemed Pinnacle Customer Experience Award™ for Cleanliness. This recognition underscores Kennybrook Village’s unwavering commitment to providing a clean and hygienic environment for its residents. From meticulously maintained living spaces to spotless common areas, Kennybrook Village sets the standard for cleanliness in senior care.

Additionally, Kennybrook Village was recognized for its exceptional Laundry Service. Residents can rest assured knowing that their clothing and linens are expertly cared for, ensuring both comfort and convenience. This award reflects Kennybrook Village’s dedication to meeting the diverse needs of its residents with efficiency and care.

Moreover, Kennybrook Village stood out in the realm of Activities, earning another Pinnacle Customer Experience Award™. With a diverse range of engaging activities and programs, Kennybrook Village fosters a vibrant community where residents can thrive socially, emotionally, and intellectually. This recognition highlights Kennybrook Village’s commitment to enriching the lives of its residents through meaningful experiences and connections.

Last but certainly not least, Kennybrook Village was honored for its unwavering commitment to Safety and Security. Providing residents with a safe and secure environment is paramount at Kennybrook Village, and this award is a testament to the dedication and diligence of its staff in ensuring the well-being of every resident.

Earning these four awards is a testament to Kennybrook Village’s steadfast dedication to excellence and continuous improvement. By consistently delivering exceptional care and service across multiple domains, Kennybrook Village has secured its position among the top 15% of care providers nationwide.

In light of these remarkable achievements, Pinnacle Quality Insight extends heartfelt congratulations to the staff of Kennybrook Village. Their hard work, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence have not gone unnoticed. These awards serve as a well-deserved recognition of their outstanding efforts and contributions to the well-being of their residents.

As Kennybrook Village continues its journey of providing exceptional care and service, it remains a shining example of excellence in the senior care community. With its steadfast dedication to continuous improvement and unwavering commitment to its residents, Kennybrook Village sets a standard that others aspire to emulate. In conclusion, Kennybrook Village’s recent accolades are a testament to its unwavering commitment to excellence in care and service. As it continues to uphold its high standards and pursue innovation, Kennybrook Village sets a shining example for the senior care industry, enriching the lives of its residents and inspiring others to do the same.

February is American Heart Month, a time when the American Heart Association designated a time of year for everyone to pay attention to their hearts and cardiovascular health.

Heart-healthy recipes don’t have to break the bank or be hard to cook. Here are some of our tips for finding foods that promote heart health and favorite recipes that every senior can cook and enjoy.

Understanding Heart-Healthy Eating

While there isn’t anything wrong with the occasional treat, we want our diets to mainly consist of foods that nourish our bodies and taste good.

Here are some simple pointers to eating a heart-healthy diet:

• Variety of fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains
• Lean meats, like poultry and seafood
• Minimally processed foods
• Minimal sugar
• Minimal salt

A healthy diet is the foundation of a long life and healthy golden years. Seniors, even those with accessibility issues, can find unique ways to get the healthy food they need.

Whether your senior shops at Walmart, Costco, or their regional grocery store, they can find foods with the American Heart Association’s Heart-Check that lets them know the food they’re looking at is good for their heart.

One of the most important things to remember about heart-healthy eating is to remember that health is a journey, not a destination. Eating one unhealthy food doesn’t erase all your work. It’s about consistency.  

Our Favorite Recipes

Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, there are plenty of heart-healthy options available. Here are some of our favorite recipes to get your senior started on the right foot.

Oatmeal with Fresh Berries

Oatmeal is one of those foods that are incredibly flexible and easy to make. Plus, oats are great for your heart and overall health. They have natural antioxidants, fiber, and minerals that can improve your cholesterol.

Spice up your plain oatmeal with yogurt or cottage cheese, fresh fruit, cinnamon and nutmeg, and different nuts. The options really are endless when you make oatmeal.

Grilled Salmon Salad

Salmon is a great fish that pairs well with a lot of fruits and vegetables. That’s why a salmon salad is a great way to improve heart health in seniors while ensuring they get all the other important vitamins and minerals they need.

Salmon is high in Omega-3 fatty acids, which has a lot of benefits, including:

• Improved brain function
• Decreased risk of cardiovascular problems
• Joint protection

Baked Chicken with Roasted Vegetables

If you’re looking for a protein that is flexible, easy to make, and gives seniors the nutrients they need, look no further than chicken. This lean protein source is technically a complete protein, which means that it has all 9 essential amino acids.

Try preparing your chicken with roasted vegetables to pull in fiber and other vitamins and minerals for a heart-healthy meal.

What Will You Make?

Heart-healthy foods are good for all of us, but especially for seniors to live the best life they can. Try out these recipes and let us know what you like!

It happens every year. The days get shorter. The temperature drops. And cold weather chills our very bones. Even though we know exactly when to expect winter, it seems to surprise us every year—maybe we’re willfully ignorant.

Change up your routine this year. Don’t let the cold weather keep you from having fun. There are plenty of fun indoor activities seniors can do during the cold winter months.

Why Should Seniors Participate in Activities in the Winter?

It’s hard for everyone to stay active during the colder months. But it’s even worse for seniors, especially those with limited mobility. Activities are great for keeping busy when you can’t go outside, but there’s so much more to it.

Seniors should participate in fun indoor activities in the winter to keep a sharp mind, improve their heart health, and better their mood. Plus, an active lifestyle in the winter means an active lifestyle in the spring and summer. And when seniors are active all year round, they’ll live longer, healthier lives.

Ten Activities for Seniors

Staying busy and having fun during the winter doesn’t need to be hard. In fact, it’s not with the right plan and a few friends. Whether your senior is living in a senior living community or at home, here are our recommendations for healthy activities they can do during the winter.

1. Book Club

Finding a group of people who love to read is the first step towards starting a book club. Best part is the group can meet regularly at a community or online and share their thoughts.

2. Painting

A picture is worth a thousand words. Help a senior get their creativity out with a beautiful painting of a sunset or their favorite pet.

3. Listen to a Podcast

Podcasts are great for helping a senior’s attention span and creativity. Help them find their favorite genres, like sports, politics, murder mysteries, or personal development.

4. Cards and Board Games

Cards and board games are a great way to bring people together and keep their mind sharp. We recommend Settlers of Catan, 42 (a domino game), and solitaire.

5. Watch Old Movies

Nothing brings back old memories like watching movies from your childhood.

6. Exercise

Exercise, solo or group, is a great way to get the blood flowing and muscle toned for a long, happy life.

7. Yoga

Yoga helps relieve stress, increases flexibility, and improves your mood—win-win-win for seniors!

8. Swimming

Need to take it easy on the joints? Try exercising in a pool or swimming.

9. Cooking

Cooking good food is a great way to maintain hand-eye coordination, memory, and a full belly!

10. Indoor Gardening

Get the herbs and small produce you need for cooking from an easy indoor garden.

What Will You Do This Winter?

Now is the perfect time to get productive and healthy. Any of these indoor activities are sure to bring a smile and some lasting memories.

Did we miss an activity you love? Share it with us!