In light of our June butterfly release and summer weather, we created a few celebratory art pieces! We honored our butterflies with acrylic paintings and filter butterflies. And to ring in the hot temperatures, we pretended we were in a tropical oasis – or rather just painted it! With the late Keith Haring’s birthday being recently, we also learned about him and the beautiful and meaningful art he created. We made some of our own Haring inspired art with a Roll-A-Haring dice and drawing game!
Our last month was full of fun festivities! Our national day calendar has given us a lot to celebrate. For National Mimosa Day, residents enjoyed a mimosa bar with different fruit juice options. International Tea Day gave us a reason to have a high tea party with tea sandwiches, pastries, and new flavors of tea. We also celebrated National Cheese Day, and it was nacho ordinary party! Swiss won by a landslide, but we had 5 different cheeses just in queso for residents to try some new things! You cheddar brie -lieve everyone had a grate time!
Hi there, I’m Jett! You might have seen me wagging around the cottage recently. Traveling, visiting the cottage, and saying hi to everyone are some of my absolute favorite things to do—well, besides munching on my kibble! My full name is Jett Von Prufenpuden. Fancy, right? I’m a Giant Schnauzer, and my birthday is on July 2nd. I’ll be turning five this year! I love cake, but my people say it’s a no-go for me (so unfair!). I was born in Kentucky and spent my first two years at PDS Training School learning how to be the best dog ever. I learned all sorts of cool things like staying on my bed, heeling, following my people, and even protecting them. I got to visit all kinds of places and meet loads of people—over 100 families! No boring kennel for me. I met babies, horses, tractors, and bicycles and learned to stay safe around all sorts of farm equipment and animals. I played with other dogs like German Shepherds and Dobermans and was part of a big doggy pack. Now, I live on a farm in Pennsylvania with my people. There’s so much grass to run on! But I’m not allowed to chase the deer, turkeys, or squirrels. I do get to bark at them sometimes, though! The only thing I’m allowed to chase is groundhogs, but honestly, they’re not much fun. My people have lots of kids and grandbabies, and I love the babies, especially when they come for lunch or dinner and drop food on the floor. Score! I can nap with the babies and play fetch with the bigger kids. Swimming isn’t really my thing, but I do love getting wet at the pond when it’s hot. And oh, I love truck rides and meeting new people! I can’t wait to visit the cottage again and say hi to everyone because you’re all so nice!
During a person’s golden years, when daily tasks become more challenging, the advantages of assisted living facilities shine brightly as harbors of freedom, care, and companionship. These communities offer a unique blend of personalized care that enriches the lives of seniors, allowing them to thrive with independence, dignity, and a profound sense of belonging. Imagine a place where each day is greeted with the potential for new friendships, support is just a call away, and every meal is an opportunity for joyous interaction. This exploration into the advantages of assisted living facilities reveals a vibrant world where enhanced senior living is realized through a wealth of amenities, comprehensive services, and a deep commitment to the holistic well-being of each resident. Uncover how assisted living communities redefine senior living, making every moment joyful and enveloped in care and community. Contact Us What Are the Key Advantages of Assisted Living Facilities? Assisted living communities provide a harmonious blend of support and independence, tailoring their services to the unique requirements of each resident. These facilities shine by offering a spectrum of advantages geared towards enhancing the quality of life for seniors. Here’s a closer look at the key benefits: Personalized Care Plans: Crafting individualized care strategies ensures that every resident receives the optimal level of assistance, from medication administration to personal care. Support with Daily Living Activities: Assisted living facilities are equipped to aid residents with daily tasks, promoting a sense of independence while providing necessary support. Access to a Variety of Services: These communities offer an array of amenities, designed to meet the wide-ranging needs of their residents. By focusing on the distinct needs of each resident, assisted living facilities create an environment where seniors can thrive, enjoying the balance between assistance and autonomy. What Makes Assisted Living Facilities a Better Option Than Nursing Homes for Some Older Adults? Assisted living facilities offer a compelling alternative to nursing homes for seniors seeking a balance between independence and support. These communities cater to older adults who require assistance with daily activities such as personal care, medication management, and meal preparation but do not need the intensive medical and skilled nursing care provided in nursing homes. The appeal of assisted living lies in its ability to offer a blend of privacy and social interaction, with residents enjoying their own apartments or living quarters within a safe, home-like environment, coupled with access to communal areas and engaging activities that foster a vibrant social life. This setup not only simplifies planning for families but also ensures that as residents' needs evolve—possibly requiring memory care or more personalized support—they can receive these services without having to relocate, making assisted living facilities a versatile and attractive option for many seniors and their families looking for a supportive, community-oriented living arrangement. Contact Us How Do Assisted Living Facilities Support the Elderly in Maintaining Independence? One of the most significant benefits of assisted living communities is their ability to help older adults live independently. With most daily needs taken care of, residents can focus their free time on enjoying their interests and hobbies. The availability of private apartments or living quarters allows for personal space, while community areas provide socialization opportunities. Can Assisted Living Facilities Enhance Cognitive Health Among the Elderly? Assisted living communities often offer programs and activities designed to support cognitive health. Through social and recreational activities, educational workshops, and exercise classes, residents can engage in stimulating activities that promote mental wellness. For individuals with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of cognitive decline, specialized memory care units provide tailored activities and therapies to enhance cognitive function and quality of life. Why Is Community Important in Assisted Living Facilities? The sense of community in assisted living facilities plays a vital role in the well-being of residents. Being part of a community of peers offers numerous benefits, from reduced loneliness and isolation to increased opportunities for social engagement. Activities, social events, and shared dining areas encourage interaction among residents, fostering friendships and a supportive environment. Contact Us How Do Assisted Living Facilities Prepare for the Future Needs of Residents? Many assisted living facilities offer a spectrum of care levels to help meet residents’ needs at their level. This care ensures that as residents' needs change, they can transition to different levels of support without leaving the comforts they have come to enjoy. This level of support provides peace of mind for the residents and their family members, knowing that future healthcare needs will be met within the same community. This is one of the advantages of assisted living that the residents at all the locations of Columbia Cottage enjoy. Choosing an assisted living facility is a significant decision that affects the quality of life for seniors. With tailored care, opportunities for socialization, and support for maintaining independence, assisted living communities offer a vibrant alternative for seniors aiming to enhance their golden years. When considering assisted living options, ask questions about the services and care provided, and speak with current residents and their families to ensure the best fit for your loved one. Please get in touch with us today if you are ready to learn more about choosing assisted living at Columbia Cottage. Contact Us
To all the Dads and Grandfathers, As Father's Day approaches, it's a time to honor and celebrate the incredible men who have shaped our lives in countless ways. You are the pillars of strength, the guardians of wisdom, and the beacons of love that illuminate our paths. To the dads who have been our heroes since childhood, whose laughter fills our homes with warmth, and whose guidance has been a steady hand through life's challenges – today, we honor you. To the grandfathers whose stories carry the echoes of generations past, whose wisdom is a guiding light in our darkest moments, and whose love is a steadfast presence that knows no bounds – today, we celebrate you. Your love is a gift that enriches our lives beyond measure, your wisdom a treasure that we hold dear in our hearts. From the simple joys of childhood to the complexities of adulthood, you have been our rocks, our confidants, and our champions. Thank you for the sacrifices you've made, for the lessons you've taught, and for the love you've given so freely. Today, and every day, we honor the extraordinary men you are – fathers and grandfathers, mentors and friends, whose presence in our lives is a blessing we cherish. Happy Father's Day!
As we celebrated Nurse’s Week in May, it was moment for us to reflect on the incredible dedication, compassion, and skill you bring to your roles every single day. You are the heart and soul of our facility, the pillars upon which our patients rely, and the shining examples of care and professionalism. Thank you for everything you do, for the sacrifices you make, and for the countless lives you touch. You are the true heroes of our facility, and we are endlessly grateful for the light you bring into the world. Thank you to our wonderful nurses, Robin, Angie, Brittnee, and Nancy!!
Happy Mother’s Day to all our wonderful residents and staff members. We celebrated with a lovely tea party and delivered a flower to every mother on Mother’s Day. Some of our favorite “Momisms” include: - You will ALWAYS be my baby. - I will always love you - no matter what. - Nobody will ever love you like your mother.
The staff and residents had a “twisting” good time celebrating Columbia Cottage Linglestown 2 nd year anniversary with soft pretzels and fun activities.
Janet (Birthday Girl), her family, and fellow residents celebrated her birthday in style with Rita’s ice. A refreshing treat after spending the morning basking in the sun. Happy Birthday, Janet!
The staff would like to thank Amber (RSD) and Justine (FSD) for preparing a special breakfast for the staff each month. For April we had chicken and waffles, and it was delicious!
There is no proof that supplements can be beneficial or preventive for Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, but interest in the relationship between supplements and brain health is high. As baby boomers age, they are increasingly spending money and time experimenting with supplements. Categories of Supplements Vitamins are the most well-known supplements, but the following are also common: Minerals Botanicals or herbs Amino acids Live microbials (probiotics) Safety and Regulation The FDA does not have the authority to approve dietary supplements for safety and effectiveness or to approve their labeling before supplements are sold to the public. No prescription is needed for supplements, as supplements are regulated under the category of foods instead of drugs. Supplement makers cannot explicitly or implicitly claim their supplement will treat, prevent, or cure a specific disease, since adequate testing hasn’t occurred. However, there are guidelines for categories of claims that are acceptable, such as the relationship between iron supplements and their effect on anemia. Popular Supplements for Brain Health Omega-3 fatty acids: These are the fatty acids found in fish. They are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation in the body and brain is the cause of many autoimmune disorders and other illnesses. It’s unknown if this applies to dementia, but decreasing inflammation improves overall health. Vitamin E: Vitamin E is considered an antioxidant that can help protect cells from damage. Factors including the sun’s rays and pollution can cause cell damage, and antioxidants are thought to help counter that damage. Studies are underway, but doctors warn that vitamin E can act as a blood thinner, so it’s inappropriate for some people. Curcumin: Like omega-3 fatty acids, curcumin is thought to be anti-inflammatory. It comes from the turmeric plant, which is used as a seasoning and looks like ginger root. Curcumin has not been studied as much as other supplements, but there has been a recent interest in its potential benefits. Varying Effects While supplements cannot claim to cure or aid in Alzheimer’s disease or other illnesses, there is evidence that some supplements help with overall health and well-being. They are easy to buy and relatively inexpensive. Actively choosing supplements can help people feel empowered because they are taking action to support their health. The opposite can be true, too. Just because you can buy supplements at the grocery store without a prescription doesn’t make them safe. Lithium, for example, was once considered a supplement. Other supplements are powerful enough to be on the Olympic Committee’s list of banned substances. Taking too many supplements might upset your stomach or prevent your body from absorbing a medication. Consulting with your doctor is the best way to navigate supplements. They can assist with choosing the right supplement and determining if a supplement is having an adverse effect on your health. Choosing a Brand Besides talking to a doctor, it’s important to research supplement brands if you’re interested in supplements for yourself or a loved one. The FDA doesn’t approve dietary supplements before they hit the market—it is up to the manufacturer to ensure that their product is safe, and the labeling is accurate. Researching companies with good reputations is very important. Also, be sure to look at labels to compare supplement dosages and see if there are any other ingredients you want to avoid. The initials USP or NSF indicate that the product has been tested by third parties. This doesn’t mean the supplement will be beneficial, but it helps confirm that the ingredients listed are accurate.
Join us Friday afternoons at 2:00pm for Happy Hour!
