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Do you remember the 25th night of September? Whether you’re an Earth, Wind, and Fire fan or just enjoy the changing of the seasons, September is the first sign of fall. This time of year brings family and friends together for the holidays and cozy activities, like crafting—a fun and relaxing way for seniors to enjoy the new season. Crafting helps seniors maintain fine motor skills, boost cognitive function, and foster a sense of accomplishment. Here are five fall crafts to spark creativity and bring a touch of seasonal charm.

Leaf Painting

Nature provides the most beautiful canvases during the fall, and leaf painting is an ideal way to capture that beauty. All you need are a few freshly fallen leaves, some acrylic paint, and a paintbrush. Seniors can either paint directly onto the leaves or use the leaves as stamps to create unique patterns on paper or canvas. Seniors can do this project alone, but it’s even more fun with friends and family. It’s simple enough that seniors can teach their grandkids how to do it too!

Pumpkin Decorating

Carving pumpkins can be a bit tricky, especially for those with limited fine motor skills, so try painting or decorating pumpkins instead. Replace the carving knife with a paintbrush and let your creativity run free! Grab a few mini pumpkins and decorate them with paint, stickers, or even sequins—try stencils for fancier text and images.

Pinecone Bird Feeders

Do you love bird watching or hiking? Bring nature to you with pinecone bird feeders. This classic craft combines creativity with a love for nature. All you need is a pinecone, peanut butter (or sunflower butter for those with allergies), birdseed, and some string. Spread the peanut butter on the pinecone, roll it in birdseed, and then hang it up outside to attract local birds.

Autumn Wreath Making

Homemade wreaths are perfect for your front door or living space. Purchase foam or plastic wreath forms at craft stores and decorate them with artificial autumn leaves, acorns, and berries. If you love this activity a lot, you’re in luck. Wreaths are great decorations for all times of the year. You can make a wreath for different months, seasons, and holidays. Have fun with it!

Pressed Flower and Leaf Art

Preserve the vibrant colors of fall with pressed flower and leaf art. Collect a few colorful leaves and flowers, place them between the pages of a heavy book, and let them dry for about a week (this is important—don’t skip). After one week, arrange the leaves and flowers on cardstock to create beautiful nature-inspired artwork. Glue the flowers on the cardstock or press them to transfer the colors.

How Will You Decorate for the Fall?

Fall is a beautiful season, and these craft projects are a wonderful way to capture and preserve the beauty. Seniors will stay engaged and active whether crafting alone or in the company of others. So, grab your supplies and let the autumn fun begin!

An active lifestyle is important for everyone—whether you’re 7 or 70. But as you get older, movement and activity can decline, making it harder to move and easier to sit. 

An active lifestyle that prioritizes movement is crucial for a healthy life in your golden years. Staying active and healthy doesn’t have to be a chore either—it’s all about finding joy in everyday activities and nurturing both your body and mind. 

Let’s dive into some easy ways to keep yourself active and well!

1. Stroll Through Nature

Walking is a wonderful, low-impact exercise that you can enjoy. Whether you prefer a gentle stroll through the park, along the beachside, or around your neighborhood, getting outside and moving is key. Walking improves cardiovascular health and mobility and offers a chance to soak in the beauty of nature—proven to relieve stress and reenergize your mental and physical health. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated before heading out!

2. Join a Social Club or Group

Staying socially active is just as important as physical activity. Join a local club or group that interests you—be it a gardening club, book group, or even a dance class. Spending time with others can boost your mood, provide a sense of community, and keep your mind sharp.

3. Try Gentle Exercises

Gentle exercises, like yoga and tai chi, are great for improving flexibility, balance, and strength, and they’re easy on the joints. These gentle exercises help you relax and clear your mind. Many senior centers and community organizations offer classes specifically designed for older adults, ensuring a welcoming and supportive environment. Don’t worry if you’re a beginner—these practices can be adapted to suit any fitness level.

4. Embrace Creative Pursuits

Keeping your mind active is just as essential as physical exercise. Dive into creative activities like painting, knitting, writing, or playing a musical instrument. These can be hobbies you did when you were younger, or you can try something new. It’s best to choose something that will stimulate your brain, improve hand-eye coordination, and offer a wonderful outlet for self-expression. Plus, it’s a great way to unwind and enjoy some “me time.”

5. Volunteer and Give Back

Volunteering can be incredibly fulfilling and offers a great way to stay active and connected with your community. Whether you choose to help out at a local school, animal shelter, or food bank, giving your time and energy to others can boost your mood and sense of purpose. It’s also a wonderful way to meet like-minded people and learn new skills.

How Will You Stay Active?

Staying active and healthy in your golden years is all about embracing activities that bring you joy and keep you moving. From going on a walk to volunteering at a local soup kitchen, there are plenty of ways you can stay active.

It’s never too late to try something new or revisit an old hobby. So, lace up those walking shoes, grab a friend, and embark on your next adventure—your golden years are the perfect time to shine!

Moms are the best. They take care of you when you’re sick, they drive you to school, and they’re your biggest cheerleader on the sidelines at school and in life. They’re pretty special.

That’s why we put together this list of creative gift ideas for your senior mom. After a life of giving and loving, surprise your mom with a thoughtful gift.

Here are four of our favorite gift ideas for this Mother’s Day!

Skylight Frame

Whether you live down the road or across the country, your family always wants to see photos! The Skylight Frame is a great way to share precious memories with your mom, no matter how far away you live.

The Skylight Frame is a digital photo frame… but it’s not like those other ones that need an SD card. You can constantly update the Skylight Frame with new photos directly from the app or by email. Now, after Johnny’s baseball game or Suzie’s swim meet, you can surprise their grandmother with new photos from their competition in a minute.

Take a Class Together

Sometimes “Time” is the greatest gift you can give someone. Instead of giving a physical gift this year for Mother’s Day, gift an experience, like taking a class together. 

Does your mom love to cook or garden? Go to a cooking or gardening class with her!

Maybe your mom prefers a wine and cheese tasting. Take her to a local vineyard.

Or better yet, your mom loves to burn up the dance floor! Find a local samba or ballroom dancing class.

Taking a class together is a great gift because it creates lasting memories and gets you doing something your mother loves.

Live Music Performance

Music is a great way to liven the mood—that’s why so many restaurants use it in the background. So what better way to really make Mother’s Day special than to buy her tickets to a live music performance? Bonus points if the performance is on Mother’s Day.

Listening to live music is such a fun experience and great for the whole family to do. Try to find tickets for a local cover band or one of your mom’s favorite singers still on tour to really excite her and make her day.

Restock Hobby Supplies

Is your mom into crafting or some other hobby? Chances are she needs some supply refills or to upgrade her set! Restock or replace her hobby supplies this Mother’s Day to show you care about her passions and creativity.

Although hobbies are a lot of fun, sometimes the cost to maintain one can add up. Restocking your mom’s hobby supplies helps her stay active doing things she loves.

What Will You Get Your Mom This Mother’s Day?

Mother’s Day isn’t very far away. Don’t wait too long to make the most of this special day. Surprise your mom with one of these creative gifts. If we sparked an idea with this list, go for it! Your mom deserves it.

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!