theretreatatchurchranch

Bloom Into A Healthier You

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 16:21:42 GMT

"Stronger roots, brighter days, healthier you."

As the days grow longer and flowers begin to bloom, with bees buzzing in the background, it’s the perfect time to refresh your routines, recharge your energy, and grow into a stronger, healthier you. The return of sunny days invites you to get moving, soak up the light, and nurture both your body and mind. Here are a few simple tips to help you thrive this spring season:

Get Moving with Outdoor Activities- Longer days and mild temperatures create the perfect opportunity to step outside—whether it’s a walk around your neighborhood or a visit to a nearby park. Activities like gardening or outdoor fitness classes not only get you moving, but also let you soak up some sunshine, boosting your mood and sharpening mental clarity.
Stay Hydrated- With warmer temperatures and more time in the sun comes the need to stay well hydrated. This is especially important for older adults, who are more prone to dehydration. If plain water isn’t your favorite, try adding fresh fruit for a burst of flavor or experimenting with simple twists to make it more enjoyable—helping you drink more and stay refreshed all day long.
Protect Your Skin- Along with staying hydrated, it’s important to protect yourself while spending time in the sun. Wearing a good sunscreen and a hat can help shield you from harmful rays, reducing the risk of sunburn, heat exhaustion, and heat-related illness—so you can enjoy the outdoors safely.

“Hydrate your body, shield your skin, feed your heart.”

Stay Connected With Loved Ones- Social connection plays a vital role in overall wellness. Nurturing relationships with loved ones and friends helps strengthen emotional well-being, lift your mood, and create a lasting sense of connection and support.
Embrace Fresh, Seasonal Eating - Spring brings an abundance of colorful fruits, vegetables, and fresh herbs. Adding these to your meals not only brightens your plate, but also fuels your body with essential nutrients—boosting energy, supporting immunity, and helping reduce the risk of chronic disease.
Prioritize Restful Sleep - Maintaining a consistent bedtime routine helps create a calm, restful sleep environment—leading to better quality sleep. In turn, this supports your overall health, improving energy, focus, and well-being.
Stay on top of Health Screenings- As spring begins, it’s the perfect time to catch up on routine check-ups, eye exams, hearing tests, and dental cleanings. It’s also a great opportunity to make sure your vaccinations are up to date. Taking these proactive steps helps set the foundation for a healthier, more confident you.
Keep Your Mind Engaged- Keep your mind engaged by reading, solving puzzles, or learning a new skill. Nurturing your mental well-being is just as important as caring for your physical health, helping you stay sharp, curious, and balanced.
Practice Relaxation and Mindfulness- Find simple ways to reduce stress, as it can impact both your mental and physical health. Techniques like yoga, meditation, or simply enjoying the peace of nature—whether sitting outside or taking a relaxing walk—can help restore balance and promote overall well-being.

“Stimulate your mind, ease your stress, soak up nature.”

Enjoy the Great Outdoors- Spending time outdoors can help reduce stress and lift your mood. While outside, you might enjoy birdwatching, tending a garden, or any simple activity that brings you joy and allows you to connect with nature.

Spring is in the air! It’s a season to get outside, enjoy the blossoms, and let healthy habits take root—helping you grow into a stronger, healthier you, both physically and mentally. Speaking of surprises and playful twists, did you know that April 1st has a long history of trickery and pranks? Let’s dive into the curious origins of April Fool’s Day.

“From blooming habits to harmless hijinks—spring into the fun of April Fool’s Day!”

April Fool’s Day: Proceed with Caution… or Not!��

Welcome to the one day of the year when suspicion is not only normal—it’s essential. Even your morning coffee might be plotting against you! April Fool’s Day is here, bringing a perfect blend of laughter, harmless mischief, and just enough confusion to keep everyone on their toes.

Whether you’re the clever prankster or the unsuspecting victim, today is all about embracing the unexpected. Keep your eyes wide, your sense of humor handy, and maybe—just maybe—check that chair before you sit. Let the fun, surprises, and giggles begin!

How did this mischievous day come to be? April Fools’ Day is believed to have originated in 1582, when France switched from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar. Under the Julian calendar, the New Year began around the spring equinox, near April 1st. With the Gregorian calendar, the New Year shifted to January 1st, which left many people confused. Those who continued to celebrate in late March and early April became the targets of jokes and hoaxes—and were dubbed “April Fools.”

Some early pranks were simple yet amusing, like placing a paper fish on someone’s back and calling them an “April Fish.” Over time, the tradition spread to other countries, and today, April Fools’ Day is synonymous with harmless pranks, from the simple to the elaborate. After the trick is revealed, the classic shout rings out: “April Fools!”

"Laugh, prank, and beware—April Fools is everywhere!”

Sources:

Spring into Wellness! 15+ Health Tips for Older Adults This Season by Corrine McCallum
History.com

BOOK NOOK & MOVIE CORNER

“Let your imagination blossom, one page and scene at a time.” ��

As you bloom into a healthier you this season, take a moment to pause, unwind, and let your mind wander into our Book & Movie Corner.

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:

Wind In The Willows by Kenneth Grahame - This is an enchanting novel that invites you into the world of Mole, Rat, Toad, and Badger. The four of them embark on whimsical adventures that lead to tricky escapades. The story reflects on childhood wonder and friendships. This book appeals to all generations and is a classic. It is perfect for a spring read. Join in some mischievous Spring adventures with Mole, Rat, Toad, and Badger.

The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah- is a gripping tale of courage, survival, and resilience. Set in Texas during the Great Depression, the story unfolds as a devastating Dust Bowl and relentless drought ravage the land. Crops fail, livelihoods crumble, and farming families are pushed to the brink of survival.

At the heart of the story is Elsa, a woman forced to make an impossible choice: fight to keep her family’s farm alive or leave everything behind in search of hope in California. This powerful novel captures the depth of hardship, the strength of family, and the resilience required to endure even the most desperate of circumstances.

"When your past is a mystery, every answer could be a lie."

That's Not My Name by Megan Lally- That's Not My Name by Megan Lally is a chilling psychological thriller that begins with a haunting question: What would you do if you woke up on the side of the road with no memory of who you are? When a stranger arrives at the police station claiming to be her father, Madison has no choice but to go with him.

Soon, she finds herself in an isolated cabin—cut off from the world—with a man who insists her name is Mary. As fragments of memory begin to surface, nothing adds up. The pieces of her past don’t match his story, and doubt quickly turns into fear.

Follow Madison’s gripping journey as she fights to uncover the truth, piece together her identity, and survive a reality that may be far more dangerous than she ever imagined.*

“That’s a wrap on this chapter—see you where the next blooms begin! ”

Turned the final page, but still craving the story? Grab some popcorn and watch it come to life like spring in full bloom. ��

MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS:

The Wizard of Oz- As spring awakens the world with color and light, journey down the yellow brick road to a land where dreams bloom, and friendships flourish. Follow Dorothy as a whirlwind transports her from the familiar greens of Kansas to the magical, vibrant fields of Oz. Alongside the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion, she discovers that courage, heart, and wisdom grow strongest when shared—and that sometimes, there’s truly no place like home.

The Secret Garden- Mary’s world is turned upside down when she is orphaned by a devastating earthquake and sent to live in Britain with an uncle still lost in grief over his wife’s death years before. Left largely on her own in a vast, lonely mansion, Mary soon discovers a frail, hidden cousin—and a once-beautiful garden now fallen into ruin. Determined to bring the garden back to life, Mary begins a quiet transformation that awakens not only the neglected grounds, but something deeper within the house. As the garden blooms, so too do long-buried secrets waiting to be uncovered.

Peter Rabbit (2018)- Peter and his three sisters spend their days happily sneaking into Mr. McGregor’s vegetable garden, enjoying all the tasty treats it has to offer. But when a new relative moves in, he’s far less amused by the mischievous family of rabbits. What follows is a hilarious battle of wits between Peter and the determined newcomer, who comes up with all sorts of schemes to drive the rabbits away. Luckily, Peter proves to be just as clever—if not more—finding creative ways to outsmart every obstacle thrown his way.

Peter Rabbit is a delightful, lighthearted adventure full of humor and charm, making it a perfect pick for the spring season and a fun addition to any Easter-themed watchlist. ��

So step into the sunshine and follow the blossoms a little further. At the end, you won’t find a pot of gold — you’ll find something even sweeter… a celebration of birthdays blooming with joy, laughter, and a touch of springtime magic. ��

We would love to hear any book or movie recommendations you may have.

“Celebrating the Wonderful You—Today and Always!” ��✨

RESIDENT BIRTHDAYS

RICKY MARTIN 4/14

ROBERTA CHURCH 4/26

JOHN LOPEZ 4/2

EDDIE PARISH 4/10

STAFF BIRTHDAYS

MILENA GARCIA 4/25

DESTINY MADERA 4/21

GABBY REQUELEME-DIAZ 4/10

JUAN SANCHEZ 4/6

" Our Shared Light Makes a Difference."

RESIDENT OF THE MONTH

ARMELLA DINKLE

EMPLOYEES OF THE MONTH

JUAN SANCHEZ

MILENA GARCIA

Welcome New Residents

ROBERT SCHENCK

Introducing The Wisdom Circle!

We are pleased to announce that our long-running reflection and discussion group, formerly known as The Long Straw Club, has a new name that better reflects its purpose and spirit.

Beginning this month, the group will be known as The Wisdom Circle.

For over two decades, this gathering has provided residents with a space to share their experiences, explore meaningful topics, and support one another through honest and thoughtful conversations. In recent years, we have taken a meaningful step toward deepening the emotional, spiritual, and psychological well-being of our community.

To that end, Lloppön Rinpoche has been entrusted with promoting and nurturing the emotional, spiritual, and psychological well-being of our residents. Under his guidance, The Wisdom Circle continues this tradition with a renewed sense of purpose, offering a calm and respectful environment where every voice is valued and every story is honored.

The circle symbolizes equality, community, and connection; the word wisdom speaks to the insight each person carries from a life fully lived. Together, they represent what this gathering has always been: a place of reflection, companionship, and meaning.

We invite residents, families, and staff to join us as we begin this new chapter.
The Wisdom Circle meets monthly in the Activity Room. Please encourage residents to participate. All are welcome.

“A Circle of Connection, A Gathering of Meaning.”

HAPPY EASTER!!

A Joyful Irish Journey

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 22:26:05 GMT

"From Shamrocks to Smiles—A Celebration of Irish Spirit"

Strap in and let's take a joyful ride to Ireland, where we'll uncover the rich history behind St. Patrick's Day. The history of St. Patrick's Day dates back more than a 100 years. The day honors Ireland's patriot saint, Saint Patrick.

"The Man, The Myth, The Legend"

Saint Patrick was not actually born in Ireland, but in Roman Britain toward the end of the fourth century. At just sixteen years old, he was kidnapped by Irish Raiders and taken to Ireland, where he was sold into slavery. For six long years, he worked as a shepherd, spending much of his time in solitude. During those quiet years in the countryside, his faith deepened.

Eventually, Patrick escaped and returned home to Britain. But Ireland was never far from his heart. After studying for the priesthood, he felt called to return-this time not as a captive, but as a Christian missionary. He is widely credited with helping spread Christianity throughout Ireland.

Although he is known today as Ireland's patron saint, there was no formal canonization process at the time, so his sainthood was never officially declared by the Church. Still, the people of Ireland have honored him as a saint for centuries.

It is believed that Patrick died on March 17, around the year 493. That date became a feast day in his honor - and eventually grew into the St. Patrick's Day celebrations we know today.

Over time, history blended with legend. One of the most beloved stories tells how Patrick used a three-leaf shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity- Father, Son, and Holy Spirit- three parts in one. The four-leaf clover, however, has roots in older Celtic tradition. The Celts believed clovers could ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune. That belief helped shape the lucky clover traditions we associate with St. Patrick's Day today.

Another famous legend claims that Patrick drove all the snakes out of Ireland, sending them slithering into the sea. While it makes for a dramatic tale, scientists note there is no evidence that snakes ever lived in Ireland after the Ice Age. Still, the symbolism of banishing evil has endured.

From driving out snakes to teaching with a simple shamrock, the legends of St. Patrick have certainly left their mark. Today, those stories inspire parades, music, laughter, and a sea of green.

And, speaking of parades - the first recorded St. Patrick's Day parade did not take place in Ireland at all. It was held on March 17, 1601, in St. Augustine, Florida. Later, in 1762, Irish soldiers serving in the British Army marched through New York City to honor the saint. Their celebration sparked enthusiasm that spread to cities like Boston and Chicago.

Over time, Irish-American traditions flourished across the United States. Festivities grew to include Irish Soda Bread, corned beef hash and cabbage, shamrocks, and the wearing of green. In Chicago, the river is famously dyed bright green each year. And, of course, we can't forget the mischievous leprechauns, guarding their pots of gold at the end of the rainbow.

"Cue The Leprechauns"

Traditions keep us rooted in history, but stories let our imaginations run wild. And nestled deep within Ireland's rich storytelling heritage is one tiny - but unforgettable- character: the mischievous leprechaun, forever guarding his pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

That's the version we know today- cheeky, charming, and dressed head to toe in green. But travel back to Celtic and medieval times, and you'd meet a very different little fellow. Leprechauns were described as small, shoemaking creatures - no more than three feet tall- with red beards, fairy-like features, and a reputation for being far more menacing than merry. Clever and cunning, they were known for leading travelers astray, playing harmful tricks, and guarding their treasured pots of gold with fierce determination. If someone managed to capture one (a rare feat indeed!), the Leprechaun would bargain for freedom by granting three wishes-but trusting him was always a risky choice.

The earliest tales, dating back to the 7th or 8th century, paint an even darker picture. One legend tells of Leprechauns as dangerous water spirits who tried to drag the mythical King Fergus into the sea to drown him. Instead, the king turned the tables, capturing them and demanding three wishes in exchange for their release. Even then, the Leprechauns' trickery was never far from the surface.

"From Shadowy Shores to Shimmering Rainbows"

Over time, especially by the 19th Century, these sly little shoemakers softened in spirit and stature. The once-menacing tricksters became beloved symbols of Irish pride, luck, and magic.

Today, they're closely tied to St. Patrick's Day celebrations and have traded shadowy waters for bright rainbows. You'll spot them smiling from cereal boxes, starring in movies, and even serving as sports mascots.

From fearsome folklore to festive fun, the leprechaun's journey proves that even the smallest characters can leave the biggest mark on a story.

Sources:

The Jolly Leprechaun's Sinister Origins by Lesley Kennedy
World History Encyclopedia
World Atlas.com
History.com

BOOK NOOK & MOVIE CORNER

“Leprechaun-Approved Tales Full Of Heart and Wonder” ��

From the whimsical world of Leprechauns and legends, we now turn to stories that bring us comfort, inspiration, and a little escape. Pour a cup of tea, settle in your favorite chair, and join us in the Book Nook and Movie Corner-where every story is its own kind of treasure.

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:

My Husband's Wife- by Alice Feeney -is a dark, twist-filled psychological thriller that will leave readers second-guessing every detail.

Set inside the eerie and exclusive retreat known as Spyglass, the novel unravels a marriage already strained by secrets. What begins as a getaway quickly spirals into something far more sinister as buried lies, obsessive thoughts, and hidden motives rise to the surface. With each chapter, the line between truth and manipulation blurs, and even the most trusted relationships feel fragile.

As past and present collide, the story becomes a tangled web of deception and betrayal, where every glance carries suspicion and every memory feels unreliable. Nothing is quite as it seems—not the setting, not the characters, and certainly not the marriage at the center of it all.

Tense, atmospheric, and packed with shocking turns, My Husband’s Wife dares you to step inside Spyglass… but be warned: once you enter, you may question everything you thought you knew.

Our Perfect Storm- by Carley Fortune- is an emotional, sun-soaked story about friendship, heartbreak, and the fragile space between holding on and letting go.

Best friends since they were eight years old, the two women have weathered every season of life together—childhood dreams, teenage missteps, and adult growing pains. Though their bond has always been strong, it has never been without tension. Still, no matter how fiercely they clashed, they always found their way back to each other… until the night before the wedding.

When the groom abruptly calls off the ceremony, everything changes. In the fallout, unspoken resentments and long-buried truths rise to the surface, threatening to permanently fracture the friendship that once felt unbreakable.

Determined not to let their story end this way, one friend makes a bold suggestion: take the honeymoon trip anyway. In the tropical paradise that was meant to celebrate a marriage, they instead confront the wreckage of their friendship. Against a backdrop of ocean breezes and stunning sunsets, they must decide whether their bond can survive the storm—or if some relationships are only meant for a season.

Tender, nostalgic, and layered with emotional depth, Our Perfect Storm explores how love—romantic and platonic alike—can be both our greatest comfort and our fiercest challenge.

The Alchemist-by Paulo Coelho- This beloved novel follows Santiago, a young Andalusian shepherd who dreams of discovering a hidden treasure near the Egyptian pyramids. Encouraged by a series of signs and encounters—including a mysterious king, a crystal merchant, and an alchemist—Santiago leaves behind the familiar to pursue what he learns is his “Personal Legend,” or true life’s purpose.

Along his journey across the desert, Santiago discovers that the real treasure lies not only in gold, but in courage, faith, and listening to one’s heart. The story beautifully reflects on destiny, perseverance, and the idea that it is never too late to chase your dreams. Through simple yet powerful storytelling, The Alchemist reminds readers that when you commit to your dreams, the universe often conspires to help you achieve them.

“That’s a wrap on this chapter—see you at the next page turn!”

Closed the book, but not ready to leave the story behind? Grab some popcorn-it's time to see how storytelling shines on the silver screen.

MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS:

Darby O' Gill and The Little People- After being quietly replaced by a younger man, Darby O’Gill dreads telling his daughter the truth about losing his job. On his way home, he stumbles through a mysterious portal into the magical land of the Little People, where he meets the spirited Leprechaun King Brian. Through a twist of fate, Darby accidentally brings the mischievous king back home with him—setting off a charming and whimsical adventure.

The Luck of the Irish People- During a trip to Ireland, reporter Fritz wins the trust of a leprechaun named Horace by turning down the lure of his gold. Returning to New York, Fritz takes a promising job under D.C. Augur, his fiancée’s influential father. Just when life seems carefully mapped out, Horace pops back into the picture—this time as a devoted valet—nudging Fritz toward a path filled with heart, humor, and a touch of destiny.

Open Range- Boss Spearman (Robert Duvall) and his cowhands Charley (Kevin Costner) and Mose (Abraham Benrubi) are driving cattle across a large expanse of country. When Mose ventures into a sparse village to buy a few necessities, he is met with violent hostility from Denton Baxter (Michael Gambon), an affluent landowner, and his right-hand man, Poole (James Russo). When Mose doesn't come back, Boss and Charley realize he's in trouble, so they plot to get him back and get revenge on those who captured him.

We would love to hear any book or movie recommendations you may have.

So grab your party hats and follow the rainbow a little further. At the end, you won’t find a pot of gold — you’ll find something even better… a celebration of birthdays filled with joy, laughter, and a touch of lucky charm. ��

“Cheers to Another Year of You!”

RESIDENT BIRTHDAYS

ARMELLA DINKLE 3/12

CHUCK THURSTON 3/25

STAFF BIRTHDAYS

MONICA HANNA 3/12

MARIA SANCHEZ 3/25

JONATHAN DUDLEY 3/26

" Our Shared Light Makes a Difference."

RESIDENT OF THE MONTH

CAROL PURFURST

EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

YASMIN MENDOZA

Welcome New Residents

BILLIE MASON

Introducing The Wisdom Circle!

We are pleased to announce that our long-running reflection and discussion group, formerly known as The Long Straw Club, has a new name that better reflects its purpose and spirit.

Beginning this month, the group will be known as The Wisdom Circle.

We invite residents, families, and staff to join us as we begin this new chapter.
The Wisdom Circle meets monthly in the Activity Room. Please encourage residents to participate. All are welcome.

“A Circle of Connection, A Gathering of Meaning.”

HAPPY ST. PATRICK'S DAY!!

Hearts, History and A Touch Of Cupid

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 23:24:35 GMT

"Valentine's Day: Then, Now, and the Mischief of Cupid"

Valentine's Day has charmed hearts for centuries, though the way we celebrate it has undergone significant changes over time. From handwritten love notes and carefully saved chocolates to emojis and instant messages, the holiday continues to remind us that love, no matter how it's expressed, never goes out of style.

Valentine's Day: Then

Once upon a time, Valentine's Day was a quieter, more deliberate affair. Cards were chosen thoughtfully, or written by hand. A trip to the card store could take hours as people searched for the right words. Some even made their own cards using lace, ribbons, and pressed flowers, proof that creativity has always been a part of romance.

Candy was simple, too. Chocolate boxes were treasured, sometimes saved for special moments, rather than eaten all at once. Conversation hearts arrived with longer, formal messages, reflecting a time when even candy spoke politely.

Going out to dinner wasn't always the expectation. Instead, Valentine's Day might be marked by a shared meal at home, a dance, or a simple evening together. Love was less about extravagance and more about intentions.

Valentine's Day: Now

Today, Valentine's Day moves at a much faster pace. Messages are sent instantly, gifts arrive with a click of a button, and candy hearts include phrases like "lol" or "text me". While things look different, the goal remains the same: making someone feel loved and remembered. It has also expanded beyond romance to friendship, family, and self-love.

And, Then There's Cupid.....

No Valentine's Day would be complete without Cupid, the mischievous little character armed with a bow and arrow. In ancient Roman mythology, Cupid was known as the god of desire, famous for causing people to fall in love, often when they least expected it. Whether Cupid's arrow leads to lifelong romance, deep friendship, or simply a fond memory, he reminds us that love is unpredictable and sometimes delightfully surprising.

Why Valentine's Day Still Matters

At its heart, Valentine's Day isn't about perfection or grand gestures. It's about connection-remembering the people who bring warmth to our lives and taking a moment to appreciate them. A phone call, a shared story, or a piece of chocolate can mean more than the fanciest gift.

So, whether your Valentine's Day looks more like "then" or "now", or somewhere in between, one thing remains true: love is always worth celebrating. And, if Cupid happens to stop by, let him know there's chocolate involved-he seems to have a sweet tooth.

Happy Valentine's Day!! ��

Did you know ?? Valentine Fun Facts

About 145 million Valentine's Day cards are exchanged each year.
Over 58 million pounds of chocolate are purchased annually for Valentine's Day.
One of the earliest known Valentine's was written in 1415 from prison.
Early conversation hearts had much longer messages than today's versions.
Red roses became associated with Valentine's Day because they were believed to symbolize love in ancient mythology.
Cupid comes from Roman mythology and was thought to make people fall in love with a single arrow.

Valentine's Day emphasizes personal relationships, while Black History Month highlights social justice, equality, and historical awareness.

Both observances encourage reflection and celebration, even though in different contexts.

"Uniting Hearts and Histories: A Tribute to Love and Legacy"

A Century Remembered: Black History at 100

As we reflected in January on the life and leadership of Martin Luther King Jr., February invites us to continue that journey of remembrance and learning through Black History Month. In 2026, we recognize a special milestone— 100 years since the first national effort to honor African American history and achievements. What began in 1926 as a single week of learning has grown into a full month of reflection, celebration, and appreciation. This important movement was started by Dr. Carter G. Woodson, a dedicated historian and the second African American to earn a Ph.D. from Harvard University. His hope was simple but meaningful: that Black history would be taught, remembered, and valued as an essential part of our shared story. Today, Black History Month gives us time to honor the individuals and moments that helped shape our nation and move us toward greater understanding and equality.

"Where Love, Justice, and History Intertwine"

Sources:

Sources: History.com, Encyclopedia Britannica, Smithsonian Magazine, National Confectioners Association
2026 Marks The 100th Anniversary of Black History Month: A Brief History by Doug Melville

“After reflection and celebration, it’s time to relax with a good book or movie.”

BOOK NOOK & MOVIE CORNER

“Read It. Watch It. Love It.” ��

February encourages us to reflect on both love and legacy, the love that connects us and the history that teaches us. The Book Nook and Movie Corner brings these themes together through inspiring reads and films that celebrate compassion, perseverance, and the voices that continue to shape our world.

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:

The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah -i s a powerful historical novel that tells the story of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle Rossignol, during World War II in Nazi-occupied France. Through their contrasting paths—one of quiet endurance, the other of active resistance—the novel explores themes of love, courage, sacrifice, and survival.

The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks - This novel tells the poignant love story of Noah Calhoun and Allie Nelson. They met one summer in North Carolina, and their connection endures through years of separation, societal pressures, and personal challenges. Their tale unfolds in a beautiful yet devastating manner, showcasing the complexities of love and commitment.

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas- is an emotional novel with twists and suspense, to celebrate Black History Month with a notable Black Author. Sixteen-year-old Starr Carter moves between two worlds: the poor neighborhood where she lives and the fancy suburban prep school she attends. The uneasy balance between these worlds is shattered when Starr witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend Khalil at the hands of a police officer. Khalil was unarmed. Soon afterward, his death is a national headline. Some are calling him a thug, maybe even a drug dealer and a gangbanger. Protesters are taking to the streets in Khalil’s name. Some cops and the local drug lord try to intimidate Starr and her family. What everyone wants to know is: what really went down that night? And the only person alive who can answer that is Starr.

Whether it’s a love story, a tale of resilience, or a meaningful moment in history, February’s books remind us of the power of storytelling. Now, let those stories come to life as we move from the page to the screen with this month’s movie recommendations.

MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS:

An Affair To Remember - A man and a woman have a romance while on a cruise from Europe to New York. Despite being engaged to other people, both agree to reunite at the top of the Empire State Building in six months. However, an unfortunate accident keeps her from the reunion, and he fears that she has married or no longer loves him.

The Notebook- This movie was adapted from the novel by Nicholas Sparks, so if you read the novel, you know that this is the ultimate love story of all time. Better bring the tissue, because you will be crying as this love story unfolds on the screen. In 1940s South Carolina, mill worker Noah Calhoun (Ryan Gosling) and rich girl Allie (Rachel McAdams) are desperately in love. But her parents disapprove of their love. When Noah goes off to serve in World War II, it seems to mark the end of their love affair. In the interim, Allie becomes involved with another man (James Marsden). But when Noah returns to their small town years later, on the cusp of Allie's marriage, it soon becomes clear that their romance is anything but over.

When Harry Met Sa ll y - When Harry Met Sally... follows cynical Harry and optimistic Sally over a decade as they repeatedly cross paths, debating if men and women can truly be just friends, eventually forming a deep friendship that's tested when they sleep together, leading to a realization (prompted by their friends' romance) that they are in love and belong together, culminating in Harry's grand confession at a New Year's Eve party. The plot explores whether men and women can truly be friends.

We would love to hear any book or movie recommendations you may have.

“Cheers to Another Year of You!”

RESIDENT BIRTHDAYS

MICHAEL ANDERSON 2/5

LENA EHRET 2/12

SHARI WOLD 2/16

STAFF BIRTHDAYS

ALEJANDRA PEREZ 2/11

STEFANI RAZO 2/22

" Our Shared Light Makes a Difference."

RESIDENT OF THE MONTH

STAN SIMMS

EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

ADRIANA TORRES

Welcome New Residents

BRADLEY BLACK

CHUCK THURSTON

LOIS FROST

Introducing The Wisdom Circle!

We are pleased to announce that our long-running reflection and discussion group, formerly known as The Long Straw Club, has a new name that better reflects its purpose and spirit.

Beginning this month, the group will be known as The Wisdom Circle.

We invite residents, families, and staff to join us as we begin this new chapter.
The Wisdom Circle meets monthly in the Activity Room. Please encourage residents to participate. All are welcome.

“A Circle of Connection, A Gathering of Meaning.”

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!

A Fresh Start: Setting Goals That Stick

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 22:59:51 GMT

"NEW YEAR, NEW POSSIBILITIES"

As the last page of the calendar turns and a New Year begins, we are gifted a gentle reminder that it is never too late to dream, grow, or try something new. January invites us to pause, reflect, and look ahead with hope. For many, this is a time to set resolutions, or simple intentions that bring joy, purpose, and a sense of well-being.

Whether it's taking up a new hobby, reconnecting with old friends, making time for wellness, or finding small moments of gratitude each day, the New Year offers countless opportunities to embrace positive changes. No matter your age, there is always room for fresh beginnings.

Let's step into this year together, with optimism and a celebration of all the possibilities ahead.

“Setting Resolutions That Truly Stick—Let’s Make This Year Different.”

When setting resolutions, it is important to align your goals with realistic expectations. After all, the New Year should inspire motivation- not frustration. One way to set yourself up for success is by using the SMART formula, which encourages goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound.

"Start Where You Are - Grow From There."

By choosing goals that are both meaningful and manageable, you’re more likely to enjoy the journey and celebrate each accomplishment along the way. Whether you’re striving for better health, deeper connections, or simply more joy in your daily life, a thoughtful approach can make all the difference. Let’s take a closer look at the SMART formula to help guide your success.

Specific: Define exactly what you want to achieve.
Measurable: Include metrics to track progress.
Achievable: Set realistic objectives that challenge without overwhelming you.
Realistic: Goals should be feasible and suited to the individual's health and lifestyle.
Time-Bound: Each goal should have a specific timeline or deadline. This creates a commitment.

By keeping your goals Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic , and Time-Bound, you set yourself up for a year of purpose and progress. When your aspirations align with your abilities and values, each step forward becomes more meaningful—and much more attainable. As you move into the new year with clarity and confidence, remember that even small, steady efforts can lead to significant and lasting change.

"Reflect. Serve. Remember The Dream."

This theme of purposeful action brings us to an important moment we observe each January: Martin Luther King Jr. Day . Dr. King dedicated his life to meaningful, measured steps toward justice, equality, and unity—principles that continue to inspire progress today. As we honor his legacy, we are reminded that positive change often begins with a clear vision, a determined spirit, and the courage to take that very first step.

The journey to how Martin Luther King Jr. Day became a Federal Holiday was a remarkable one, spanning 28 years from his assassination to full national recognition. Although King was tragically assassinated in Memphis in 1968, it wasn't until 1976 that the idea of honoring him with a holiday began gaining widespread attention. MLK was a powerful yet controversial figure due to his leadership in the Civil Rights Movement, and several attempts to establish a Federal Holiday initially failed.

While individual states began observing the day as early as 1973, efforts at the federal level stalled. Even with President Carter's endorsement, the bill lacked sufficient support to pass. It ultimately took persistent grassroots organizing from labor unions, civil rights advocates, and King's own family to shift the momentum.

A notable boost came from Stevie Wonder's hit song "Happy Birthday," which became an anthem for the movement and helped galvanize public support.

Finally, on November 2, 1983, President Reagan signed the bill into law, officially establishing Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a Federal Holiday. The first national observance took place on January 20, 1986. Today, MLK Day continues to be celebrated annually on the third Monday in January, honoring King's legacy and lifelong fight for justice and equality.

Sources:

Setting Health Goals for Seniors in the New Year by Membership Representative
New Year, New Horizons: Goal-Setting for Older Adults by Karen Midyet
The History of Martin Luther King Jr Day by Zack Yanowitz

BOOK NOOK & MOVIE CORNER

“Start The Year With A Good Book, A Great Film, and A Fresh Perspective.”

Winter invites us to slow down, reflect, and find comfort in great storytelling. This month's selection of books and films pairs perfectly with quiet evenings and cozy corners-stories that warm the heart even as the world outside turns cold.

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:

The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey - Set in 1920s Alaska, this enchanting novel follows a couple who, heartbroken by their inability to have a child, move north seeking a new beginning. In a moment of whimsy, they build a little girl out of snow… only to later glimpse a mysterious young girl darting through the trees. Could their snow child have truly come to life? This beautifully written tale blends folklore, hardship, and hope in a way that lingers long after the last page.

Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah - This novel combines the past and present historical events. It is about two sisters who try to unravel a family history of secrets and emotional scars. It is a powerful story filled with love, betrayal, and forgiveness.

Martin Luther King Jr: (Civil Rights Movement) by Hourly History - The life of Martin Luther King Jr. was painfully short, yet profoundly impactful. Guided by non-violent direct action and the principles of Christian love, King emerged as one of the most influential leaders of the civil rights movement in the United States. A devoted husband, father, pastor, and advocate for justice, he carried a message of hope from the pulpit to the streets—ultimately helping to reshape the nation and inspire the world.

A new year brings new stories to savor. From the pages we turn to the movies we watch, each one offers a chance to reflect and reconnect. After enjoying this month’s reads, cozy up with films that highlight the beauty of family, gratitude, and togetherness.

MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS:

A Man Called Otto - A family moves in next door to a grumpy old widower named Otto Anderson. Otto meets his match in a quick-witted pregnant woman named Marisol, leading to an unlikely friendship that turns his world upside down.

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe- Siblings Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter step through a magical wardrobe and find the land of Narnia. There, they discover a charming, once peaceful kingdom that has been plunged into eternal winter by the evil White Witch, Jadis. Aided by the wise and magnificent lion, Aslan, the children lead Narnia into a spectacular, climactic battle to be free of the Witch's glacial powers forever.

The Revenant : Amid the untamed, snow-covered Missouri wilderness, skilled hunter Hugh Glass and his son Hawk lead a daring expedition into the unknown territories of the fierce Arikara tribe. However, their challenging journey takes a disastrous turn when a ferocious grizzly bear mauls Glass, leaving him clinging desperately to life. To his dismay, his fellow hunters abandon him, leaving him alone to face the formidable forces of nature and the deadly perils of this inhospitable land. Now, with nothing but his unyielding determination to survive, Glass must summon all his strength and fortitude to stay alive and seek vengeance against those who betrayed him.

We would love to hear any book or movie recommendations you may have.

“This Birthday Is A Celebration Of The Many Ways You Uplift And Inspire Our Community.”

RESIDENT BIRTHDAYS

MARY LOU 1/22

CAROL P 1/25

RICHARD 1/7

LILLIAN 1/18

STAFF BIRTHDAYS

CAYLEE 1/25

JENNY 1/5

HOPE 1/17

VIANEY 1/9

" When We Come Together, Everyone Shines."

RESIDENT OF THE MONTH

TBA

EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

TBA

Welcome New Residents

NO NEW MOVE-INS

Introducing The Wisdom Circle!

We are pleased to announce that our long-running reflection and discussion group, formerly known as The Long Straw Club, has a new name that better reflects its purpose and spirit.

Beginning this month, the group will be known as The Wisdom Circle.

We invite residents, families, and staff to join us as we begin this new chapter.
The Wisdom Circle meets monthly in the Activity Room. Please encourage residents to participate. All are welcome.

“A Circle of Connection, A Gathering of Meaning.”

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Festive Flights: A Trip Around the World’s Holiday Traditions

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 17:35:52 GMT

"NO PASSPORT NEEDED: CELEBRATE WITH THE WORLD"

Buckle up- no passport required! Just pack your imagination suitcase as we take off on a festive journey around the globe to discover how families celebrate the holidays. Trays up and get ready for take off!

The holiday season is a time of joy, reflection, and togetherness-no matter where you live in the world. From flickering candles, to festive feasts, people everywhere have their own special ways of celebrating this magical time of year. Let's explore some these beloved traditions.

GERMANY(THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS MARKETS)- In Germany, Christmas markets, or Weihnachtsmarlte -bring citites and towns to life with glowing lights, the scent of roasted nuts, and cheerful carolers. Shoppers enjoy warm mulled wine, handmade gifts, and cozy winter treats like gingerbread and sausages.
MEXICO(LAS POSADAS)- In Mexico, Las Posadas begins on December 16th and lasts nine nights. Families reenact Mary and Joseph's search for shelter, ending each night with songs, food and oftern a bright, colorful pinata for the children.
ITALY(LA BEFANA'S VISIT)- In Italy, children eagerly await La Befana, the kindly old woman who delivers sweets on the night of January 5th. Along with delicious Christmas dinners, families enjoy, panettone- a delicious sweet, fruit-filled bread that's a holiday favorite.
SWEDEN(ST. LUCIA DAY)- In Sweden, December 13th marks St. Lucia Day. Young girls wear white dresses with red sashes and candlelit crowns, leading processions and singing to bring light and warmth to the long winter nights.
PHILIPPINES (THE LONGEST CHRISTMAS SEASON)- The Philippines is known for having one of the longest Christmas seasons in the world, starting as early as September! One of its highlights is the Giant Lantern Festival, where enormous, colorful laterns light up the sky as symbols of hope and faith.
JAPAN (CELEBRATION OF LIGHT AND JOY)- Though Christmas isn't a traditional religious holiday in Japan, it's celebrated with bright lights, cheerful decorations, and a modern tradition- sharing a Christmas meal of fried chicken and strawberry shortcake! It's all about togetherness and creating joyful memories.
ETHIOPIA (GENNA-ETHIOPIAN CHRISTMAS)- In Ethiopia, Christmas- called Genna- is celebrated on January 7th. People attend church services dressed in white and share a meal of spicy stew and flatbread. The day is filled with music, dancing, and games enjoyed by all generations.
AUSTRALIA (CHRISTMAS IN THE SUMMER SUN)- While many of us dream of a white Christmas, Australians celebrate under the summer sun! Families often gather for beach picnics, outdoor barbecues, and festive events like " Carols by Candlelight." Santa might even arrive on a surfboard!
FRANCE (REVEILLON AND JOYEUX NOEL)- In France, Christmas Eve is marked by a grand feast called Reveillon , enjoyed late into the night. Tables overflow with delicacies like oysters, roasted meats, and buche de Noel , a chocolate yule log cake. Churches and homes are beautifully decorated with candles and creches.
INDIA ( FESTIVAL OF COLOR AND LIGHT)- In India, Christmas is celebrated with lanterns, colorful decorations, and special sweets. In some regions, mango or banana trees are decorated instead of pine trees. It's a joyful mix of local culture and Christian tradition.

“Our holiday journey ends where it all began — with festive cheer in the United States.”

UNITED STATES (CELEBRATION OF MANY TRADITIONS)- Here at home, the holidays bring together a beautiful blend of customs from all around the world. From trimming the tree and hanging stockings to lighting menorahs or celebrating the Kwanzaa, our diverse traditions refelect the many cultures that make up our nation. Whether it's baking cookies, singing carols, or sharing a meal with family and friends, the American holiday season reminds us that joy, generosity, and togetherness truly unite us all.

Around the world, holiday traditions are as diverse as the people who celebrate them. From festive feasts to heartfelt ritualism each country has its own way of spreading cheer. But while some customs feel familiar, others might make you do a double-take! Let's take a look at some of the most unusual - and delightfully crazy- holiday traditons celebrated across the globe that prove the season of joy knows no boundaries.

“Hold onto your Santa hats — these holiday traditions take festive to a whole new level!”

When it comes to the Holidays most of us think of trees, carols, and cozy family dinners-but around the world, some holiday traditions are downright wild! Here are a few most unusal ways people celebrate the season.

AUSTRIA (BEWARE OF KRAMPUS!)- In Austria, St. Nicholas has a scary sidekick named Karmapus- a furry, horned creature said to punish naughty children. Each December, locals dress up in frightening costumes for "Krampus Runs," stomping through the streets in a spooky yet festive parade.

CATALONIA, SPAIN (THE POOPING LOG)- In the Catalonia region of Spain, families celebrate with a cheerful wooden log called Caga Tio. Children "feed" it snacks for days, then on Christmas Eve, they sing songs and tap it with sticks unit it "poops out" candy and presents. Silly, sweet, and definitely unforgettable!

ICELAND (THE 13 YULE LADS)- Forget one Santa- how about 13? Iceland's Yule lads are playful brothers who visit children for thirteen nights before Christmas, leaving gifts (or tricks) depending on who's been good.

JAPAN (A FINGER-LICKIN' FEAST)- Here Christmas dinner means fried chicken! Thanks to a 1970's KFC ad campain, families across the country now enjoy buckets of crispy chicken and strawberry shortcake on Christmas Day.

NORWAY (HIDING THE BROOMS)- Norwegians believe mischievious spirits come out on Christmas Eve searching for brooms to ride- so families hide theirs before bed, just to be safe!

What a ride! From charming to downright bizarre, these traditions prove that the holidays are anything but ordinary around the globe. Now that we’ve landed back home in the U.S., maybe it’s time to start a new tradition of our own—crazy or cozy, as long as it brings a smile.

SOURCES:

National Geographic Kids- " Christmas Traditions Around the World"
BBC Travel-"The World's Strangest Christmas Customs"
Simthsonian Magazine- " Holiday Traditions From Around the World"
History.com-" Christmas Traditions Worldwide"

“We’ve packed our bags with holiday traditions from around the world—now let’s unpack some magical reads and films in the book and movie corner.”

BOOK NOOK & MOVIE CORNER

“Hot cocoa, good stories, and movie magic—it must be December!”

Now that we've got our coca, it's time to cozy up and explore some books and movies that bring a little magic to the holiday season.

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:

A DECEMBER TO REMEMBER BY JENNY BAYLISS - This is a heartwarming and funny tale about three estranged half sisters that have to work together to be able to be able to claim their inhertance of their father.

THE GREATEST GIFT BY PHILIP VAN DOREN STERN - This is the original story behind the movie " It's a Wonderful Life." So, if you are one of the many, that makes watching the movie part of your holiday tradition, this read might be for you.

I'LL BE ALONE FOR CHRISTMAS BY KRISTIN MULLIGAN - This is an action packed thriller about a woman who goes to a remote cabin to basically do a reset after a breakup, then a bunch of biazarre happenings begin to question if she truly is alone.

Stories have a special way of touching our hearts—whether we find them in a good book or on the screen. After enjoying this month’s reads, settle in with a few films that remind us of the joys of family, gratitude, and connection.

MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS:

IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE - This is a classic Holiday movie. After George, wishes he was never born, an angel is sent to Earth to make his wish come true. Then, George realizes how much his life has impacted people. So, if you have read the book " The Greatest Gift", you can see how much the movie follows the book.

HOME ALONE - No matter how many times you watch this movie, it gets funnier and funnier. It is about a little boy that gets left home alone while his family goes on vacation. And a pair of robbers think it is going to be a piece of cake robbing this house. Little did they know, a little boy would outwit them.

THE POLAR EXPRESS - All aboard!! Come and join this magical journey with your hot coca and pjs, to experience what the holiday season is all about. When a doubting young boy takes a train ride to the North Pole, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe.

We would love to hear any book or movie recommendations you may have.

“Every birthday is a tribute to the joy, friendship, and inspiration you bring to our community.”

RESIDENT BIRTHDAYS

MILDRED 12/12

JOSEPHINE 12/11

MARY 12/1

MARILYN 12/29

HELEN W 12/18

NATALIE 12/30

ANGELA 12/16

STAFF BIRTHDAYS

SHANTEL 12/3

TACHIA 12/17

MARISELA 12/20

YASMIN 12/5

ANGELINA 12/16

"WE SHINE BRIGHTER TOGETHER "

RESIDENT OF THE MONTH

JACK MARTINDALE

EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

To Be Announced

Welcome New Residents

EDDIE PARRIS

Introducing The Wisdom Circle!

We are pleased to announce that our long-running reflection and discussion group, formerly known as The Long Straw Club, has a new name that better reflects its purpose and spirit.

Beginning this month, the group will be known as The Wisdom Circle.

We invite residents, families, and staff to join us as we begin this new chapter.
The Wisdom Circle meets monthly in the Activity Room. Please encourage residents to participate. All are welcome.

“A Circle of Connection, A Gathering of Meaning.”

PLEASE JOIN US FOR OUR HOLIDAY CELEBRATION ON DECEMBER 6TH, 2025 FROM 2:00 PM TO 4:00 PM. DINNER AND LIVE ENTERTAINMENT WILL BE PROVIDED. PLEASE MAKE SURE TO RSVP-MCKINEYJODIRCR@GMAIL.COM.

Why Do We Do These 10 Weird Things Every Thanksgiving?

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 17:50:10 GMT

"LET'S TALK TURKEY"

Tis that time of the year, where the holidays are upon us. Let's dive in as to what are some of the weirdest things we, as Americans, tend to do every Thanksgiving. Several involve the turkey itself.

STUFFING THE TURKEY- this can be traced back to the Romans, but as to the Pilgrims actually stuffing their turkeys is unknown. And, how it was put in as a turkey day tradition is also unknown.
TURKEY BOWLING- this started by an accident in a grocery, and it became a turkey day tradition, since 1988. It consists of an aisle as the lane, the frozen turkeys are the balls, and pop bottles served as the pins.
WISHBONE- the breaking of the wishbone, for luck actually comes from an ancient civilization. And, it just got passed on, and eventually made its way to America.
THE PRESIDENTIAL TURKEY PARDON- this event is sponsored by the National Turkey Federation, who has provided turkeys since 1947. JFK spared his turkey, and that is when the pardoning of the turkey caught on and now presidents since have "pardoned" their turkey.

"Why did the turkey cross the road? To get to the dinner table."

Speaking about the dinner table, three other weird traditions developed around eating. And, if you can't cook, or happen to screw up a side dish, don't worry there is a weird tradition that has you covered.

WEIRD SIDE DISHES- at the family dinners, no one wanted to show up empty handed. Hence, off the wall chaotic side dishes were born. Who knows if the person couldn't really cook, or it was a side dish gone wrong, but now people come up with crazy side dishes to bring to the family dinner. So, if your side dish doesn't turn out, or you really don't know how to cook, this has you covered. Just give your dish a name and you will be good to go.
TURKEY TROT- this began as a way for people to shed off some of the food. The first trot took place in 1896, and now it has spread throughout the US. Some Turkey Trots involve costumes and are hosted by charities.
THANKSGIVING-CENTRIC EATING COMPETITIONS- all across the country, there are a variety of eating competitions. They range from pumpkin pie eating challenges, to eating the entire turkey. Yes, that means the whole turkey.

"Turkey: the only bird that can make you feel stuffed and thankful at the same time."

The final three of the 10 weirdest things we do on Thanksgiving are built in America's DNA.

MACY'S THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE- This Parade took place in 1924, but has been on tv since 1953. It is one of the biggest parades in the world, with intention of getting people psyched up about Christmas gifts. It is known as "The World's Largest Store."
BLACK FRIDAY- shop till you drop. This is where companies are moving from the red into the black(turning profits), by giving deals. And lastly,
WATCHING FOOTBALL- what is better than getting stuffed with food, some friendly competition with family, and yelling at the tv to round the day out?

Is there a "weird" tradition that you celebrate, that wasn't listed here?

BOOK NOOK & MOVIE CORNER

"COZY UP WITH SOME HEARTWARMING TALES THIS NOVEMBER"

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there's no better time to curl up with a good story, or cozy up with a movie. This month's picks are all about atmosphere-books that draw you in like a soft blanket and movies that capture the magic and mystery of fall. Grab a mug of something warm and let's dive in.

BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS:

THE ACCIDENTAL TOURIST BY ANNE TYLER - This is a kooky love story that will make you smile through the tears. And, it also has a slow-roasted turkey to complete the holiday feeling of Thanksgiving.

THE HARROWING BY ALEXANDRA SOKOLOFF- What else does a group of College kids have to do over the the Thanksgiving break, but take out the Quija Board and talk to spirits. If you like Supernatural thrillers, this book is for you.

AN OLD-FASHIONED THANKSGIVING BY LOUISA MAY ALCOTT- This is a heartwarming tale about an impoverished family that is determined to get Thanksgiving Dinner on the Table. It is a short story and centers around being thankful for what you have.

Stories don’t just live on the page — they unfold on screen, too. After diving into this month’s reads, here are a few films that echo the season’s themes of family, gratitude, and connection.

MOVIE RECOMMENDATIONS:

PLANES, TRAINS AND AUTOMOBILES- A light-hearted comedy about two travelers trying to make it home for the Thanksgiving holiday.

KNIVES OUT- For those who like a little mystery and mischief with their pumpkin pie, this one is for you. It is a brilliant whodunit.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS- This is a dramedy mixed with chaos and love that all family gatherings come with. It has an all star cast and everybody can relate to this one.

A CHARLIE BROWN THANKSGIVING- This classic never fails on bringing smiles and warmt h on making Thanksgiving special.

““Each birthday is a reminder of the joy you bring to our community.”.”

STAFF BIRTHDAYS

NO NOVEMBER BDAYS

RESIDENT BIRTHDAYS

11/9 RON SCHUMM

"TOGETHER WE SHINE"

RESIDENT OF THE MONTH

RICHARD TYE

EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

CRYSTAL REYES

Welcome New Residents

JOSEPHINE SERRANO

The Long Straw Club

For the past 20 years, The Long Straw Club has been a cornerstone of our assisted living community, offering a deep and thoughtful exploration of the spiritual, emotional, and psychological dimensions of aging. Originally founded by noted gerontologist Robin Avery, the club has been guided by a diverse array of wisdom teachers - including rabbis, priests, ministers, and other spiritual leaders – who have helped members navigate the later chapters of life with insight and grace. Today, under the esteemed leadership of Lloppón Rinpoche, the Long Straw Club continues to foster meaningful discussions, personal reflection, and a sense of shared wisdom among its members. Please join us on the last Tuesday of every month.

"REMEMBERING THOSE WHO SERVED "

This Veteran's Day, we pause to honor the brave men and women who have served our nation with courage, dedication, and sacrifice. Their selfless service has protected the freedoms we cherish and reminds us of the strength and spirit that define our country.

Here at The Retreat at Church Ranch, we are especially proud to recognize our own residents/staff who answered the call to serve. Today we honor:

RESIDENTS:

STAN SIMMS- U.S. ARMY
PHIL MONTOYA- U.S. ARMY
HANK WORKMAN- U.S. NAVY
ELWOOD ENGLISH- U.S. NAVY
DON HOLLANDSWORTH- U.S. ARMY
JACK MARTINDALE- U.S. AIRFORCE
BEA JOHNSON- U.S. AIRFORCE
JAMES HABERER- U.S. ARMY

STAFF:

JODI MCKINEY- U.S. ARMY

Each of you has made a lasting impact through your service, and your courage continues to inspire us all. We are deeply grateful for your sacrifices and for the example you set every day within our community.

"TOGETHER WE STAND, GRATEFUL FOR THEIR SERVICE."

THE RETREAT AT CHURCH RANCH IS HOSTING THE MEDICARE MONDAY ON NOVEMBER 10, 2025 AT 2:00 PM. PLEASE JOIN US FOR SOME LIGHT REFRESHMENTS, WHILE SPEAKERS DISCUSS MEDICARE BENEFITS AND ANY QUESTIONS CAN BE ANSWERED. IT WILL BE HELD IN OUR DINING AND ACTIVITY AREA.

PLEASE JOIN US FOR OUR HOLIDAY CELEBRATION ON DECEMBER 6TH, 2025 FROM 2:00 PM TO 4:00 PM. DINNER AND LIVE ENTERTAINMENT WILL BE PROVIDED. PLEASE MAKE SURE TO RSVP-MCKINEYJODIRCR@GMAIL.COM BY NOV. 21ST, 2025

Spooky Flu Season: What You Need to Know

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 22:46:41 GMT

"Harvest Health: Fight the Flu With Us"

The arrival of flu season brings fresh challenges and health concerns. However, with proper planning and proactive measures, it's possible to navigate through the season, maintaining your well-being. As flu season approaches, here are some tips to stay healthy.

GET VACCINATED - The first line of defense against the flu is the flu vaccine. Getting a vaccine in the fall can reduce your risk of getting sick by 40 - 60%. And, it's never too late to get vaccinated.

"DON'T GET SPOOKED BY THE FLU- GET YOUR FLU VACCINE BEFORE HALLOWEEN"

PRIORITIZE HYGIENE- Good Hygiene practices go a long way in preventing the spread of the flu virus. Good hygiene includes washing your hands frequently and disinfecting surfaces that are consistently touched. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
BOOST YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM- A strong immune system is the best defense against illnesses. You can boost your immune system through a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, exercise, and stress management.
STAY HYDRATED- Drinking plenty of fluids not only keeps you hydrated, but also helps your body naturally eliminate bacteria and toxins that can cause illness.
STOCK UP ON ESSENTIALS- Have a supply of tissues, hand sanitizers, and other essentials that you might need when feeling under the weather.
PRACTICE A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE- Maintaining a routine that keeps your body at peak performance is crucial. This includes regular physical activity, a balanced diet, adequate rest, and managing your stress.

WITCHING WAYS TO STOP ILLNESS THROUGH THE COMMUNITY

NO TRICKS , JUST TREATS: PROTECT YOURSELF FROM THE FLU

STAY AT HOME IF NOT FEELING WELL - if you are not feeling well with flu symptoms, stay at home.
COVER YOUR MOUTH AND NOSE- When sneezing or coughing, always cover your mouth and nose with tissue or inner elbow. Dispose of the Kleenex properly and wash your hands right after.
WEAR A MASK- During peak flu season, consider wearing a mask. They help not to spread of the flu from person to person.
AVOID CLOSE CONTACT- Try to limit close contact with others, especially if they are ill.

RECOGNIZING GOULISH FLU SYMPTOMS:

FEVER AND CHILLS
COUGH
SORE THROAT
RUNNY OR STUFFY NOSE
MUSCLE OR BODY ACHES
HEADACHES
FATIGUE
VOMITING AND DIARRHEA

Remember, the key essentials to preventing the flu and its spread are getting vaccinated, practicing good hygiene, boosting your immune system, and living a healthy lifestyle. Recognizing the symptoms early and seeking medical attention can help reduce the severity and duration of the illness.

STAFF BIRTHDAYS

10/19 AMBER

10/29 HEIDI

10/16 ADRIANA

10/26 ZACK

10/2 LAUREN

RESIDENT BIRTHDAYS

10/18 TERRY M

10/6 DON

10/23 JACK

10/18 DAN

"TOGETHER WE SHINE"

RESIDENT OF THE MONTH

LORETTA SHAFTO

EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

STEFANI RAZO

Welcome New Residents

ANGELA PHILLIPS

TERRY BUSWELL

EDITH HAMILTON

The Long Straw Club

" EMBRACE THE SPOOKY SIDE OF LIFE WITH US "

SPOOKTOBER

Spooktober is a popular way to refer to October. During this month, Halloween festivities are held, when people masquerade as various mysterious, malevolent beings. The term Spooktober was created in 2010, and Disney started using the term more frequently in 2012. October is not only about Halloween and spookiness, but it is also well-known for the transition into Autumn, with cooler temperatures and the changing of the foliage. the month is also associated with harvesting and pumpkins galore. This month is recognized for Breast Cancer Awareness and Domestic Violence Awareness.

SPOOKY FACT:

Trick or Treat began hundreds of years ago in Medieval England, when people would go door to door offering a prayer or a song in exchange for food. This was known back then as Souling, taking place on All Saint's Day when Christians would traditionally pray for their loved ones. Approaching the Victorian era, the food often given was a type of pastry called soul cake. Only in modern times has the tradition evolved into sweets and chocolate. Well, we have the Celts to thank for that, too, as that's when the costume-wearing started.

NEIGHBORLY HAUNTS

With bags in hand, we roam the street, in costumes bright, we're here to greet. The doorbells ring, and laughter springs, as neighbors peek with friendly grins.

Pumpkins glow in the dusky light, Candy treasures await in fright. With every knock, the joy we seek, in playful whispers, the night's mystique.

So, take a treat and share a smile. This Halloween, let's pause for a while. For in our hearts, we all agree, the best of fright is community.

LET'S HAVE SOME SKELE-FUN!!!

HALLOWEEN WORD UNSCRAMBLE

EETAR _____
WHEALLEON _________
CRIKT _____
THOGS _____
CHIWT _____
TABS ____
FLOWWERE ________
MOBIZE ______
MUSTOCE _______
PRIVAME_______
DANCY _____
TAPYR _____
BOTTOMENS _________
LOACRUND ________
CROBROTE ________
RACES _____
KIPPNUMS ________

WORD KEY: IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER

SCARE; WITCH; WEREWOLF; COSTUME

GHOST; PUMPKINS; BATS; VAMPIRE

TOMBSTONE; PARTY; TRICK; TREAT

CANDY; ZOMBIE; CALUDRON; HALLOWEEN; OCTOBER

SELF-CARE FOR SENIORS

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 22:29:15 GMT

"Small Steps Lead to Big Changes"

SELF-CARE FOR SENIORS: 11 TIPS FOR YOUR GOLDEN YEARS

No matter what age you are, self-care is important, and you can never outgrow the need to be kind to yourself. Life can be hard, and you’ve spent years working and pushing yourself. Prioritizing your quality of life and understanding why self-care is important for seniors is more critical than ever. By taking care of yourself and your overall well-being, you’ll be able to stay more active and engaged and enjoy activities and relationships that bring happiness.

Here are the 11 self-care tips for your Golden Years:

"Fitness: your daily adventure awaits."

1. Engage in physical activity -Staying active and engaging in regular exercise is a self-care practice that strengthens your mind, muscles, and keeps you strong and agile.

2. Nourish with a balanced diet - Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet that‘s rich in Vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and fiber is crucial for optimal health and senior care. As you age, your nutritional needs change, and eating well becomes even more crucial.

"Balanced Bites: From Breakfast to Dinner, We’ve Got You Covered!"

3. Prioritize Mental Health– Mental Health is just as important as physical health, especially as you age. Identifying and addressing feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression is essential. EX: Meditation; Yoga; Journaling; Spending time with friends and loved ones.

4. Keep Regular Medical Check-Ups- Committing to regular healthcare check-ups is essential for detecting and managing potential health conditions. Make sure to schedule and keep routine and preventive exams and screenings,

5. Stay Hydrated important to stay hydrated for your overall health. Some people’s sense of thirst diminishes with age, so it makes it easier to become dehydrated. Make sure to drink regularly throughout the day. Drink more when more active and it is hot outside.

6. Stay Socially Connected- Staying socially connected is vital for your emotional and mental well-being. Spending time with others can prevent loneliness and isolation. Loneliness and isolation can lead to depression and other physical conditions .

7. Engage in Hobbies and Interests- Staying involved in hobbies and self-care activities for seniors is a great way to stay mentally active and fulfilled. When you embrace your passions, your life stays more vibrant and enjoyable.

8 . Practice Meditation and Relaxation Techniques– Practicing relaxation techniques daily can do wonders for your physical and mental health. Relaxation techniques can improve overall well-being and promote a sense of calm. Just a few minutes a day, can make a substantial difference in your life.

9 . Create a Safe Home Environment– As you age, creating a safe environment at home becomes crucial for preventing falls and other injuries. Just simple little adjustments can help, EX: Grab Bars, non-slip mats, and clear pathways.

10. Get Adequate Sleep– Sleep is important at any age, but adequate and quality rest becomes essential as you enter your golden years. Getting enough sleep can help with memory care, cognitive functioning, and more. Create a bedtime routine, and aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night.

11. Stimulate the Mind– Keeping your mind active is one of the best things you can do for longevity and vitality as you age. Improving cognitive health can help prevent memory loss and cognitive decline, which can negatively impact your overall quality of life. EX: Read, Puzzles, Games.

"Activity Awaits: Live, Laugh, and Play!"

Embrace Your Golden Years

You’ve worked so hard to reach this stage of your life, and you deserve to enjoy it. Embrace your golden years by practicing self-care for seniors that help you live a healthy, active life. Nourish your body, see a doctor, keep your mind engaged. Stay social, and keep your hobbies as they can help provide emotional support. Remember, self-care isn’t about taking care of your physical needs, but also prioritizing your mental health too.

STAYING YOUNG, WHILE HAVING FUN!!

CELEBRATIONS AND WELCOMES!!!

RESIDENT BIRTHDAYS STAFF BIRTHDAYS J ANET JONES 9/15 LAILA COROCRAN 9/1

PHIL MONTOYA 9/13 BRIANNA HAMPTON 9/7

ANITA HAMILTON 9/20 OVI ARAGON 9/26

CAROL ROBERTSON 9/15

SEPTEMBER RESIDENT OF THE MONTH

NINA COOLEY

NEW RESIDENTS

NATALIE TESELLE

CAROL ROBERTSON

JUNE FRITSCHMANN

The Long Straw Club

"Happy September! The world shall now transform into pumpkin everything.” ― Keith Wynn ��

FINDING A PAIN FREE AND ACTIVE LIFE

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 18:29:20 GMT

KEEP IT MOVING !!!

Finding a Pain-Free and Active Life By Dr. Alan M. Reznik

Movement as Medicine

A big theme of the conversation was how important it is to move—intentionally and regularly. “Most people think if something hurts, they need to stop using it,” said Dr. Reznik. “But quite the opposite is often true. Joints and muscles need movement to stay strong, lubricated, and functional.” He emphasized that you don’t need to take up running marathons to improve your health.
In fact, these small daily routines can make a big difference:

Strengthen the muscles around your joints (like the quads for knees and rotator cuff for shoulders).

Use resistance bands or light weights at home.

Take short walks throughout the day to improve circulation and reduce stiffness

Preventing Falls Before They Happen

Dr. Reznik also spoke about fall prevention, which is a major concern for older adults. His book I’ve Fallen, and I Can Get Up offers practical guidance for reducing fall risks and recovering confidently if a fall does occur. “Falls are one of the leading causes of injury as we age, but they’re often preventable,” Dr. Reznik noted. “A little planning and a few smart changes can go a long way.”

Some of his top recommendations include:

Remove loose rugs and clutter from walkways.

Install grab bars in bathrooms.

Improve lighting throughout the home.

Practice balance exercises, such as standing on one foot or gentle tai chi.

Teamwork in Healthcare

Another important takeaway from the podcast was Dr. Reznik’s perspective on collaboration in healthcare. He stressed the importance of working closely with your physician, physical therapist, and even fitness professionals to build a plan that’s right for you. “It’s with the understanding of differing perspectives, combining disciplines, constant collaboration, and an open mind that one achieves the best path forward,” he shared. This approach not only empowers patients, it also creates better outcomes. Knowing your options and having the right support team helps you stay in control of your health journey.

Reclaiming an Active Life

Ultimately, Dr. Reznik offers a message of hope: you can take control of your joint health, reduce pain, and stay active longer than you might think. With simple, consistent effort—and the right guidance—aging doesn’t have to mean slowing down.
Whether you're already experiencing joint discomfort or just planning ahead, the tools are within reach. Because aging well isn’t just about living longer—it’s about living better. Whether you're already experiencing joint discomfort or just planning ahead, the tools are within reach.

"Lack of activity destroys the good condition of every human being, while movement and methodical physical exercise save it and preserve it.” – Plato

CELEBRATIONS AND WELCOMES!!

RESIDENT BIRTHDAYS STAFF BIRTHDAYS

MARION STAACK 8/1 ISABELLA BENIVENGA 8/26

ELWOOD ENGLISH 8/3

BEA JOHNSON 8/7

GERRY GOEHRING 8/13

ELLEN HALL 8/30

RESIDENT OF THE MONTH

ELWOOD ENGLISH

Welcome New Residents

LENA EHRET

The Long Straw Club

**Join us for some SUMMER FAMILY FUN **

on Aug 16

FROM 11 AM TO 2 PM

RSVP AUG 8, 2025

HAMBURGERS/HOT DOGS

GAMES GALORE

HAVE FUN CELEBRATING

SUMMER WITH THE FAMILY!!

The Essential Benefits of Daily Reading

Tue, 06 May 2025 14:22:30 GMT

The Essential Benefits of Daily Reading

What’s the name of the last good book you read? Is there a particular topic you enjoy? A special genre? Maybe you like books of poems, whodunit mysteries, or even fantasy tales. Recent studies have found that it’s not important what you read, but it is important for you to read every day.

Reading Battles Mental Decline and Dementia – A study in 2021 found that, regardless of education level, daily reading slowed cognitive decline in study participants. It’s believed that brain-stimulating activities like reading increase the gray matter in the superior temporal cortex of our brains. Gray matter plays a role in cognitive function.
Stress Reduction – It’s been shown that reading fiction has a positive and immediate impact on mood and emotions. In a series of experiments with high-schoolers, daily reading lead to improved mindfulness, optimism, and happiness and reduced depression, anxiety, and negative emotions over five weeks.
Improves Sleep – Reading a printed book before bed may help you fall asleep more quickly, wake up less often, and sleep for longer than people who go to bed without reading. Reading offers relaxation, calms the mind, and, if part of your regular nightly routine, helps the body prepare for sleep.
Increases Analytical Thinking Skills – For example, as you read a fiction book, the unfolding story encourages your mind to anticipate what happens next. You predict and make guesses. The brain is trained subconsciously to improve problem-solving and analytical thinking skills, which will carry over into everyday life.
It May Help You Live Longer – Those who read live up to two years longer than those who don’t read. The benefits of stress reduction as well as increased brain function are two of the ways reading contributes to our overall health. A study at the Rush University Medical Center in Chicago relayed “frequent cognitive activity across the lifespan has an association with slower late-life cognitive decline.” This also contributes to a longer life.

As little as 30 minutes a day of reading contributes to an increased lifespan. The length read correlates to the length of longevity.

Exciting Landscaping Improvements this Spring

Spring landscaping at The Retreat at Church Ranch brings even more beauty to our grounds. In the last week of April, we planted 53 Winter Gem Boxwoods, primarily along the west property line. Four Spartan Junipers were interspersed throughout the hedge to add vertical interest. Additional Boxwoods are being planted along the south fence line and at the south gate entrance.

Along the east-facing trellis attached to the Peace and Happiness pergola walkway, you’ll now find four new climbing rose bushes: two Lady Red, one Yellow Rose, and one variegated variety. Near the "Water Goddess" sculpture, we planted four Korean Privets—two on each side—to frame the feature.

In the first week of May, a horticulturist from CSU will visit to advise us on plant selections for the mounded garden, helping us maintain our certification as an official Monarch Butterfly Waystation. In June, we will plant about 40 Indian Grass and Lavender plants along the north fence line.

Be sure to notice the beautiful Eastern Redbud blooming in the southeast corner and the two Western Redbuds flanking the new green bench along the north fence. Two more Redbuds have been added to either side of the black gate in the northwest corner. We will continue making your grounds and walk more beautiful as funds allow.

NOTE: We know gardeners are living here and invite your suggestions and comments!

Improve Balance by Walking

Balance is one of the senses we often take for granted — until we lose it.
In our 50s and 60s, we may notice that our bodies feel less stable. Gradual changes linked to aging — such as loss of muscle mass, lack of flexibility, slower reflexes, worsening eyesight, and even certain medical conditions and medications — can affect our sense of balance.

The good news is that you can improve your balance with simple, everyday activities. Walking, for example, is an excellent way to build lower-body strength — a key component of maintaining good balance. Walking is not only a safe and accessible exercise for most people, but it also contributes to aerobic activity goals while helping you stay steady on your feet.

A well-designed walking plan should safely and gradually increase your physical activity, focusing more on minutes than miles.
If you're new to exercise, start slow and steady. Use a cane or walker if needed, and as you build strength and confidence, gradually add more minutes to your walks.
If you're already active, choose a walking plan that aligns with your fitness level and adjust as needed. If it feels too easy, challenge yourself by increasing your time and distance or incorporating hills. Aim for at least 150 minutes of walking per week.
For those who find walking especially challenging due to health issues, consulting with a physiatrist or physical therapist can help you explore alternative options. (From Harvard Medical School Publications)

RESIDENT BIRTHDAYS

5/1 – Annita

5/12 – Dolores G

5/21 – Sue R

STAFF BIRTHDAYS

5/8 – Shon W

5/17 – Crystal R

5/30 – Emily R

RESIDENT OF THE MONTH

Ellen W.

Welcome New Residents

Armella D

Bea J

Ron S

The Long Straw Club

MAY HOLIDAYS YOU HAVE HEARD OF – AND THOSE YOU HAVEN’T

May 2 – National Play Your Ukelele Day
May 3 – National 2 Different Colored Shoes Day
May 4 – Star Wars Day
May 5 – Cinco de Mayo (also National Hand-
Washing Day)
May 6 – National Nurses’ Day
May 7 – National Roast Leg of Lamb Day
May 9 – National Magnetic Alphabet Day
May 11 – Mother’s Day
May 13 – National Frog Jumping Day
May 14 – National Jump Like a Chicken Day
May 16 – National Bike to Work Day
May 17 – Armed Forces Day
May 18 – National Visit Your Relatives Day
May 22 – Sherlock Holmes Day
May 23 – National Lucky Penny Day
May 25 – National Tap Dance Day
May 26 – Memorial Day
May 27 – National Grape Popsicle Day
May 30 – International Hug Your Cat Day

Do You Need To Improve Your Self Esteem?

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 03:11:10 GMT

Do You Need To Improve Your Self Esteem?

Many of us have what we think of as a normal healthy ego. And others are saddled with self-doubt and question their value at every turn. There’s also a group of us that believe we’re worthy in some areas but struggle believing we’re good enough in other areas. No matter where you land, it’s doesn’t hurt to be reminded of how we can keep feeling good about ourselves or even raise our level of self-love and acceptance.

Identify Your Strengths – everyone has unique talents and accomplishments. Make a list of things you’ve done that you’re proud of, with help from friends and family, if necessary. Read it often to remind yourself of why you should be appreciated and celebrated. Recognition and repeated use of your individual capabilities can bolster your self-esteem.
Challenge negative thinking – it’s important to notice, identify and change negative thoughts as they occur. Not giving yourself full credit after a specific success (“I completed that new task well because it was easy.”) is an example of how we can undermine ourselves. If a negative thought pops into your head, replace it with a positive thought instead (“I did well because I worked hard. I deserve to do well.”)
Avoid idealism or perfectionism – although it may not seem like it, it is true that everyone makes mistakes. No one is perfect. Mistakes are just one step in the learning process. Consider instead what you learned.
Stop comparing yourself to others – life is not a competition! You are unique and your life experiences have brought you to where you currently are. Take a break from social media where only the best photos and events are posted and the standards aren’t based in reality. Again, your accomplishments are unique to you and make you important and special in your own right.
Practice acts of kindness – studies have shown that even small acts of kindness create a ripple effect of positivity. Offering a genuine compliment, helping a friend or neighbor, assisting when and where you can, are invaluable at raising everyone’s self-confidence.

Be gentle with yourself – you can’t change where you are right now. Focus on how far you’ve come and not how far you have to go.

A REVIEW - ASSISTED LIVING VS A NURSING HOME

(by Robin Avery)

Why Assisted Living is the Preferred Choice for Long-Term Care

When considering long-term care options for yourself or a loved one, the choice often comes down to assisted living or a nursing home. While both support seniors, assisted living communities like The Retreat at Church Ranch offer a more comfortable, engaging, and personalized approach to aging.

Why Assisted Living is the Preferred Choice for Long-Term Care

A Home-Like Environment

Assisted living communities offer private or semi-private apartments with comfortable, home-like surroundings. Residents can personalize their space and enjoy a sense of familiarity rather than the more clinical setting of a nursing home. This contributes to emotional well-being and helps residents feel at home.

Engaging Lifestyle & Social Connections

At The Retreat at Church Ranch, we believe in nurturing the mind, body, and spirit. Our community offers engaging activities, wellness programs, and social events encouraging friendships and fulfillment. From fitness classes to music, gardening, and spiritual gatherings, residents enjoy an enriched quality of life that nursing homes often lack due to their focus on medical care.

Cost Comparison: Assisted Living vs. Nursing Homes

One of the most significant factors in choosing long-term care is cost. Assisted living is often the more costeffective option. According to national averages:

Assisted Living: $4,500 per month
Nursing Home (Semi-Private Room): $8,000 per month
Nursing Home (Private Room): $9,500 per month

That’s a savings of at least $3,500 per month (or $42,000 per year) when choosing assisted living over a nursing home. Nursing homes provide 24/7 skilled medical care, and they are necessary for those with serious health conditions, but for many seniors, assisted living provides the right balance of care, independence, and affordability.

Personalized Care with Dignity

While assisted living supports daily needs, it prioritizes personal dignity and choice. Care plans are tailored to each resident’s needs, ensuring they receive necessary assistance while maintaining as much autonomy as possible. An assisted living community means choosing a vibrant, supportive, and engaging lifestyle—at a more reasonable cost. If you’d like to learn more about how The Retreat at Church Ranch can provide the proper care for your loved one, we invite you to visit us and experience the warmth of our community firsthand.

Another Scam Is Happening – Don’t Fall For This One

There’s another new scam happening in Colorado. In this one, scammers have posed as the E-470 Toll Authority. They send a threatening text message requesting money and personal information. Scammers reference an unpaid toll bill, or they imply the reciever’s DMV information is in jeopardy in the text. They're trying to get people to click links to make payments and share personal information.

The E-470 Toll Authority released a statement saying that neither the E-470 Authority nor ExpressToll collect any payment or personal information through text messages. The FBI is tracking the source of the scams and has found that many originate overseas. Don’t be fooled by these scamming texts!

The Long Straw Club

For the past 20 years, The Long Straw Club has been a cornerstone of our assisted living community, offering a deep and thoughtful exploration of the spiritual, emotional, and psychological dimensions of aging. Originally founded by noted gerontologist Robin Avery, the club has been guided by a diverse array of wisdom teachers - including rabbis, priests, ministers, and other spiritual leaders – who have helped members navigate the later chapters of life with insight and grace. Today, under the esteemed leadership of Lloppón Rinpoche, The Long Straw Club continues to foster meaningful discussions, personal reflection, and a sense of shared wisdom among its members. Please join us on the last Tuesday of every month.

RESIDENT BIRTHDAYS

4/2 – John L.

4/14 – Ricky M.

4/21 – Millie M.

4/26 – Roberta C.

STAFF BIRTHDAYS

4/4 – Juan S .

4/5 – Domenique M.

4/10 – Gabriela D.

4/16 – Adrianna R.

4/21 – Destiny M.

4/25 – Milena G.

APRIL EMPLOYEE ANNIVERSARIES

4/1 – Milena G – 20 years

4/4 – Crystal R – 2 years

4/10 – Gabriela D – 1 year

4/14 – Paula D – 1 year

RESIDENT OF THE MONTH

Daniel G.

Time to Focus on Improving Communication

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 22:55:06 GMT

None of us can skip communication in our daily lives. Whether at work or at home, we talk with others in the hope of getting our needs met and sharing a connection. Some people are natural and open communicators while others need some help along the way. Here are some suggestions to ease the way and help everyone get along a little bit better.

Assume Positive Intentions – when talking with family, friends or coworkers, try to avoid becoming immediately defensive. Believe the other party is working to improve the situation and striving for a positive outcome. Although it can be hard, try to be receptive to the idea someone is trying to convey even if they don’t go about it in the best way.
Be Clear and Concise – take a moment to prepare your thoughts before speaking or responding. For clarity, limit yourself to dealing with one individual topic at a time. Also, using too many words or fancy language can distract from your intended message and the listener may stop listening.
Use Active Listening Skills - which means you listen to understand what is being said and not in order to respond. Paraphrase back to the speaker what you thought they said to make sure you understand before you form your response. Ask open ended questions, not yes or no questions.
Watch Nonverbal Communication – these include facial expression, gestures and tone of voice. Be aware of the message you’re sending, such as crossed arms which convey defensiveness or lack of openness. Don’t look at your watch or phone which conveys impatience or the desire to be elsewhere. Use a calm reassuring tone of voice, even when emotions are running high.
Email and Texts are Tricky: Use Caution – as these have no tone of voice, they are easier to misconstrue. Whenever possible speak to someone in person or by phone. Written messages are one of the most important times to assume the best intentions of the other party.

Feeling understood and making successful connections is one of the best feelings in the world – good communication gets us there!

Scam Artists: Be Careful and Cautious

I think we’ve all said it, “Why don’t scam artists spend as much time and effort at a legitimate job as they do on scams?” Being a victim of a scam is not only frustrating and aggravating, it eats away at our ability to trust. Awareness is a big key in keeping scammers at bay. Don’t fall for some of the latest tricks scammers have come up with to part you from your money.

The Grandparent Scam – by using information found on-line, on social media posts or even from a previous phone call, scammers will impersonate an authority figure and report the grandchild has been in an accident or is trouble and needs a large amount of money immediately. Sometimes the scammer impersonates the grandchild themselves. They’ll request an electronic or wire transfer of funds to “save” the grandchild. In a recent version of this scam, fraudsters send ride-sharing services like Uber to pick up the cash in an envelope.

Be suspicious if:

you receive an unsolicited phone call claiming a grandchild (or loved one) is in danger.

the caller asks for money as cash, gift cards, or wire transfers.

the caller won’t let you get off the phone or threatens you if you try to verify the information.

the caller uses deception, intimidation, and coercion to force you to act quickly.

trust your gut – if something feels off, it most likely is.

Be on the lookout for more senior scam warnings in the next newsletter.

RESIDENT BIRTHDAYS

3/31 – Janet J

STAFF BIRTHDAYS

3/25 - Maria S

FEBRUARY ANNIVERSARIES

3/3 - Cayley C

3/4 - Amber S

3/9 - Amy M

3/18 - Natasha M

RESIDENT OF THE MONTH

Roberta (Bobbi) C.

EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

Amber S.

The Long Straw Club

For the past 20 years, The Long Straw Club has been a cornerstone of our assisted living community, offering a deep and thoughtful exploration of the spiritual, emotional, and psychological dimensions of aging. Originally founded by noted gerontologist Robin Avery, the club has been guided by a diverse array of wisdom teachers - including rabbis, priests, ministers, and other spiritual leaders – who have helped members navigate the later chapters of life with insight and grace. Today, under the esteemed leadership of Lloppón Rinpoche, The Long Straw Club continues to foster meaningful discussions, personal reflection, and a sense of shared wisdom among its members. Please join us on the last Tuesday of every month.

Quotes of Note

“ There are only four kinds of people in the world: Those who have been caregivers, Those who are currently caregivers, Those who will be caregivers and Those who will need caregivers. ” Roslyn Carter

Staying Healthy This Winter - Tips to Follow

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 00:40:31 GMT

Getting sick is never fun and when the weather is cold and dreary, getting sick seems to feel even worse. We all know the general rules to follow to stay healthy and stop the spread of illness, but it never hurts to see a few reminders.

1) Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow. Wash your hands regularly using soap and warm water and scrub for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water isn’t available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

2) Make sure you stay hydrated. Drinking enough water each day boosts your immune system and helps fight viruses. Studies show any hydration is better than none, so if you don’t like water, drink something you do like such as coffee, tea or juice.

3) Up your Vitamin D intake - low levels can make you susceptible to illnesses and negatively affect your mental health. Sunshine is one free source of Vitamin D. You can also find it in butter, milk, cheese, yogurt, egg yolks, some mushrooms, fatty fish and canned tuna.

4) One of your immune system's first lines of defense is your SKIN. Avoid cracked skin to keep germs, bacteria and viruses out by applying cream or lotion. Limit overly hot showers as they dry out skin. Make sure to apply moisturizer afterwards. Also, don’t forget to apply lip balm.

5) Stay up to date on recommended immunizations like flu, COVID-19, RSV and pneumonia.

6) Continue to eat a healthy diet. Eat plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts and seeds. Including garlic, ginger, and additional citrus fruits may also boost your immune system.

7) If you get sick - SLEEP. During sleep, important immune processes happen to help your body heal and recover. That’s when proteins that target infection are released and your body has a better fever response.

Don’t ignore exercise in the winter months. Walking, stationary bikes or other indoor workouts are beneficial for your mental as well as physical health and help keep your immune system working to fight infection.

Memories In Making (Mim) – Alzheimer’s Association

Did you notice the new artwork in North hallway? These pieces of art were painted by The Retreat at Church Ranch residents through a program called Memories in the Making, an art program created by the Alzheimer’s Association for use in day programs and care facilities. The program (MIM) believes painting every week provides those with memory loss a place to feel a sense of purpose, to socialize with others, and engage in an activity that keeps brain cells firing.

After creating the program, staff at the Alzheimer’s Association realized the paintings and the stories they represented offered a way to honor participant’s lives and support the work of the organization. Some of the paintings from program participants are chosen to be auctioned at the Association’s annual fund-raising Gala. Here at The Retreat at Church Ranch we are lucky to have residents whose works were chosen to be featured at the auction. Take a moment to view the lovely art our residents have created and shared

RESIDENT BIRTHDAYS

2/5 – Michael A

2/16 – Shari W

2/25 – Mary W

STAFF BIRTHDAYS

None

FEBRUARY ANNIVERSARIES

2/20 – Juan S

2/22 – Mai Pa C

RESIDENT OF THE MONTH

Roberta (Bobbi) C.

EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

Amber S.

Aging Is Inevitable – Here’s Some Of The Good Stuff About It

Using and applying something we’ve learned is called crystalized intelligence. Crystalized intelligence keeps getting better with age - even in our 70’s. This is a great reason to continue learning new things.
People are generally more agreeable as they age. They are likely to be happier and less inclined to get angry. Scientists haven’t figured out exactly why this happens, but they do have some theories. Older people might control their emotions better, and focus more on how to make the most of life.
In our 40s, more than any other time of life, we’re more in tune with other people’s emotions. Emotional intelligence, insight into how others think and feel, can make getting along with loved ones easier, in addition to helping us get along better with coworkers.
Feelings of stress decrease as we age. In general, people over 65 report experiencing less stress in comparison to people between 25 and 49—even when struggling with the same type of stressors.
Unfortnately, taste buds do not regenerate as we age. More seasoning may be called for to get the same flavor.
Eccentric exercise (movements that lengthen the muscles rather than contracting them) can help reduce and even reverse signs of aging and can keep us looking and feeling younger longer. Yoga is considered eccentric exercise.
Another reason to keep learning: senior citizens can grow new neurons over time which can help fight off dementia.

Helpful Ideas When Living On A Tight Budget

We’ve all heard the tried-and-true advice when living on a tight budget. Some of them are “Give up the extras, shop wisely, purchase your needs, not your wants” or “stick to the sale aisle.” A crazy one to me is, “Cut your own hair.” However, there are other ideas and options that you may not have heard or didn’t think about. Here are just a few ideas to help you get a few extra dollars in your pocket or in your savings account.

Track your spending for a month. Detailing where your money goes helps clarify your financial position and then you can begin to set a realistic budget. Follow your budget. It’s not fun, but you’ll see your savings grow.
Pay your bills in full each month - especially your credit card. Credit cards were created to make money for the issuer – not the user. On big purchases, look for the 6 or 12-month same as cash options. If you make the monthly payments and pay in full with these plans, no interest is charged.
If you use a credit card, sign up for cash-back credit card rewards. Use the rewards dollars for your necessities. We all want to travel and use our credit card travel dollars, but is it practical?
Educate yourself. The more you know, the better decisions you’ll make. Banks and credit unions frequently offer free finance classes. They usually have websites with budgeting and finacial literacy information as well.
Combine your errands and car trips. You’ll save money by using less gas and pollute less as well.
If you already have debt, prioritize paying off debt. The sooner you get to zero the better and you’ll stop paying interest.
Shop around for the highest interest rates for a savings account. Reward yourself for saving by getting more interest.

Dad Jokes For A Quick Smile

I'm reading a horror book in Braille. Something bad is going to happen. I can feel it.

The world tongue-twister champion just got arrested. I hear they're going to give him a really tough sentence.

I have a pen that can write underwater. It can write other words, too.

I gave my handyman a to-do list, but he only did jobs 1, 3, and 5. Turns out he only does odd jobs.

What kind of fish do penguins catch at night? Star fish.

What did the grape do when it got stepped on? Nothing but it let out a little wine.

Why don’t some couples go to the gym? Because some relationships don’t work out.

My doctor told me I was going deaf. The news was hard for me to hear.

How much did your chimney cost? Nothing, it was on the house.

Happy New Year – Means Happy New Habits

Thu, 23 Jan 2025 03:30:21 GMT

Happy New Year – Means Happy New Habits

With the dawn of a new year, there’s not a better time to begin taking better care of yourself. One way to do that is to make sure you’re not holding unnecessary stress throughout the day. A few simple techniques can help you reset and feel your best as you move through the day. PositivePsychology.com has some recommendations.

In General – Try to get adequate sleep, eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated and enjoy some form of exercise.

At Work – Break larger tasks into smaller ones when possible and maintain a tidy work environment. Schedule catch-ups with people you value. Allocate “think time” and meal breaks into your schedule.

When You Feel Overwhelmed – Slow down to avoid/move out of panic mode. Ask for help from someone you trust. Perform a calming exercise. Walk outside, get in touch with nature.

Manage Your Emotional Energy – Practice abdominal breathing to manage negative emotions. Express gratitude and appreciation for others while adopting self-compassion. Recognize your core values; find ways to be your authentic self. Listen to your favorite mood-boosting music.

Finding the right combination of healthy tips and stress reduction techniques will help make 2025 a happy new year indeed.

Creating a series of habits, practices and rituals can promote your physical, emotional, mental and spiritual energy

The Retreat at Church Ranch

Is locally owned and operated by Gerontologists Robin and Cindy Avery. Unwavering Care for each resident is at the heart of our assisted living approach. Our mission is delivering competent and kind care while we focus on the 4 C’s - Care, Community, Competency, and Connections. At the Retreat, we honor one another above ourselves and serve wholeheartedly.

THE ANNUAL CHRISTMAS PARTY

Saturday, December 7, the Retreat at Church Ranch held the annual Christmas Party. Residents, staff, family and friends enjoyed goodies, food and fun, music and visits with Santa. Each resident received a stocking full of goodies as well. And Randy Johnson entertained everyone with his singing and piano skills. Photos below:

Did You Say Free?

The US has over 400 national parks, monuments and historic sites. Twelve of them are in Colorado. In 2025 there will be six days when you can enjoy them for free. To find out more information about free day, hours and availability, visit Find a Park (U.S. National Park Service).

The 2025 free entrance days are:

January 20 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
April 19 – First Day of National Park Week
June 19 – Juneteenth National Independence Day
August 4 – Great American Outdoors Act Signing Day
September 27 – National Public Lands Day
November 11 – Veterans Day

Discover The Depths Of Your Spirit

Join us for the next gathering of The Long Straw Club, a unique and enriching group for all residents dedicated to exploring spiritual and emotional well-being. Chaired by the esteemed Lloppón Rinpoche this month, we’ll continue our journey into wisdom, peace, and personal growth.

The Long Straw Club brings together diverse voices, from rabbis and priests to ministers and global wisdom teachers, offering inspiring perspectives and meaningful discussions. Whether seeking guidance, connection, or simply a moment of reflection, this is your space.

The next meeting is January 15th at 10:30 am in the activity room. All are welcome!

Discover The Depths Of Your Spirit

The next meeting is January 15th at 10:30 am in the activity room. All are welcome!

STAFF BIRTHDAYS

1/1 – Dracilla

1/7 – Brenda
1/15 – Paula
1/17 – Hope
1/25 – Cayley
1/26 – Charlene

RESIDENT BIRTHDAYS

1/7 – Richard

1/18 – Lillian

1/22 – Mary

1/25 – Carol

JANUARY ANNIVERSARIES

1/22 – Destiny

New Attractions

A Boulder family purchased this beautiful 1961 Ford F-100 pick-up truck from a rancher in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in 1974 for $400. It has the classic “Three-on-the-Tree” manual transmission. Many parts are new, including the tailpipe, muffler, generator, alternator, solenoid, and a rebuilt Holly carburetor. It’s been winterized, but with a battery charge, it runs pretty well!

The Core Principles of Assisted Living

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 03:04:29 GMT

The Core Principles of Assisted Living

In our assisted living, we focus on and celebrate the 4 C’s - Care, Community, Competency, and Connections.

Unwavering Care for each resident is at the heart of our assisted living approach. Our caregivers are dedicated to knowing and understanding the unique needs of every individual in their care and providing compassionate, personalized care that enhances their health, well-being, and quality of life. The secret of providing great care for our residents is in caring for our residents. That is our primary focus.

A strong and vibrant Community makes all the difference in how our residents greet the day and are generally happy and content. We like to say that everyone at The Retreat at Church Ranch is responsible for the “energy under the roof.”

It is said that “Being old is not for the faint of heart.” There is ample frustration as everything gets more difficult, and chronic pain or other health problems become a part of daily life. The antidote to this is knowing that competent and positive staff will deliver care when called. This alleviates the fear and uncertainty of living in a frailer situation. We cannot understate how important this is in maintaining a positive attitude and living well in the community. It’s about TRUST.

Competency comes with experience, training, and a devotion to respect, serve, and contribute to the Mission of the Retreat at Church Ranch. Our mission is:

Creating communities of love and support that include staff, residents, and family members. Respect and service lay at the heart of our mission to provide the very best care. At the Retreat, we honor one another above ourselves and serve wholeheartedly

A Love Story Unfolded In Madison: Robin And Cindy Avery’s 40-year Journey

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 02:59:24 GMT

A Love Story Unfolded In Madison: Robin And Cindy Avery’s 40-year Journey

In the quaint city of Madison, Wisconsin, the seeds of a love story were planted in 1981 when Robin and Cindy Avery first encountered each other. Recently celebrating their remarkable 40th wedding anniversary, the couple reminisces about the fateful day when their paths crossed.

At the time, Robin was a student at the University of Wisconsin, diligently pursuing his studies. One ordinary day, while having lunch with his roommate at a bustling campus restaurant, fate intervened. A casual remark from a nearby booth caught Robin’s attention: “Look around; there aren’t any interesting guys here!” In the spirit of adventure and perhaps a touch of mischief, Robin perceived this as a challenge. As the manager of “The Barber’s Closet,” a popular Jazz and Comedy Club, he decided to turn the tables. With confidence and a twinkle in his eye, Robin approached the four girls and extended an invitation for free food and drinks at the evening’s Happy Hour. Little did they know that this spontaneous encounter would set the stage for a lifelong journey together.

Fast forward to the present, and the Averys have not only celebrated four decades of marriage but have also built a legacy of working side by side for over 25 years. Their journey is not confined to their personal life; it extends to the professional realm and encompasses the shared experiences of their children, Chelsea and Dylan. Chelsea, inspired by her family’s commitment to excellence, pursued a master’s degree in Speech and Language Pathology at Northwestern University. Meanwhile, Dylan has become an integral part of the family business, offering invaluable insights to ensure the well-being of both the business and his parents.

The Avery family isn’t complete without the inclusion of their beloved Goldendoodles, Tazi and Josie, who have seamlessly become cherished members of this tight-knit clan.

Robin’s professional trajectory took an unexpected turn after he graduated with a master’s degree in Gerontology and Long-Term Care Management from the Buddhist-inspired Naropa University. A two-year internship at Colorado Lutheran’s long-term care department paved the way for a pivotal moment in Robin’s career – taking control of the Oberon House. This 14-unit personal care boarding home in Arvada was just the beginning.

Benefits of Assisted Living: Having a Consistent Nutritional Program

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 03:13:34 GMT

Benefits of Assisted Living: Having a Consistent Nutritional Program

In the realm of aging gracefully, the decision to transition to assisted living is often met with a mix of emotions and considerations. Families and individuals alike grapple with the challenges that come with finding a supportive environment that not only meets their care needs but also promotes overall well-being. One crucial aspect of this decision is the availability of a consistent nutritional program, ensuring that residents receive the essential nutrients required for a healthy and fulfilling life.

Understanding the Essence of Assisted Living

Assisted living communities, such as The Retreat at Church Ranch , offer a range of services aimed at providing a supportive and enriching environment for their residents. Among the array of services provided are assistance with medication administration, bathing and dressing, personal care, housekeeping, laundry, and transportation services. However, one standout feature that significantly contributes to the well-being of residents is the focus on a comprehensive meal and nutrition program.

Unlocking the Benefits of a Nutritional Program

Holistic Approach to Wellness

In the landscape of assisted living, a holistic approach to wellness is paramount. The integration of a nutritional program goes beyond mere sustenance; it becomes a cornerstone of overall health. The Retreat at Church Ranch understands the importance of tailoring meal plans to meet individual dietary needs, ensuring that residents receive not only nourishing meals but also ones that cater to their specific health requirements.

Personalized Nutrition for Individual Needs

Assisted living communities recognize that each resident has unique nutritional needs. In our Elder Care Home, located across Westminster, Arvada, Broomfield, Boulder, Longmont, Erie, Thornton, Denver, Louisville, and the surrounding areas, residents benefit from personalized nutrition plans. These plans are crafted based on assessments that consider dietary restrictions, preferences, and any health conditions, ensuring a bespoke approach to nutrition.

Reducing the Stress of Daily Meal Planning

As individuals age, the daily tasks associated with meal planning and preparation can become challenging. The Retreat at Church Ranch eases this burden by providing three meals a day, along with snacks and a fruit tray available at all times. This not only ensures that residents receive the necessary nutrition but also frees them from the stress of daily meal preparations, allowing for more time to engage in meaningful activities.

Transparent Pricing with No Surprise Charges

One common concern when considering assisted living is the fear of hidden costs. The Retreat at Church Ranch addresses this by offering transparent pricing with no surprise charges. The base monthly rent includes access to a variety of services, including the nutritional program. Any additional services required are determined through a standardized assessment, eliminating the worry of unexpected fees.

Aging in Place with Dignity

We are committed to allowing residents to age in place with dignity. The availability of various apartment sizes and floor plans, from studios to two-bedroom units, accommodates different preferences. By offering levels of care instead of add-on fees, residents can seamlessly transition to higher levels of care as needed, ensuring a continuum of support.

In conclusion, The Retreat at Church Ranch stands as a beacon of holistic care, emphasizing the significance of a consistent nutritional program in the assisted living journey. Our commitment to personalized nutrition, transparent pricing, and allowing residents to age in place sets us apart in the landscape of senior living.

To learn more about our services and how we prioritize nutrition in assisted living, please click here . If you have questions or would like to discuss your specific needs, feel free to call us at (303) 469-7178 or email us at info@theretreatatchurchranch.com .

As we continue to champion the well-being of our residents, we invite you to explore the possibilities that await at The Retreat at Church Ranch , where assisted living is not just a service but a commitment to nurturing a fulfilling and healthy lifestyle.

The Benefits of Meal Preparation for Older Adults

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 03:31:09 GMT

The Benefits of Meal Preparation for Older Adults

As we gracefully navigate through the various stages of life, certain aspects become more prominent, demanding our attention and care. One such crucial aspect is ensuring that our older adults receive the proper care and support they need to lead a fulfilling and healthy life. At The Retreat at Church Ranch , we understand the significance of providing comprehensive services to our residents, and one of the key pillars of our care is the focus on meal preparation.

Understanding the Importance of Meal Preparation

Promoting Health and Well-being

Meal preparation goes beyond the mere act of cooking; it encompasses the thoughtful planning and creation of nutritionally balanced meals tailored to the specific needs of older adults. Adequate nutrition plays a pivotal role in maintaining health and well-being, especially as we age. Our meal and nutrition program is designed to address the unique dietary requirements of our residents, ensuring they receive the essential nutrients vital for their overall health.

Fostering Independence

At The Retreat at Church Ranch , we believe in promoting independence among our residents. Meal preparation is a fundamental aspect of daily living, and by offering assistance tailored to individual needs, we empower our residents to maintain their autonomy. Our dedicated staff provides support with tasks such as dining, dressing, and grooming, enabling residents to navigate daily life with confidence and dignity.

Customized Dining Experience

We recognize that each individual has unique preferences and dietary restrictions. Our meal program caters to diverse tastes and dietary needs, offering a variety of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. From specialized diets to accommodating allergies, our chefs work diligently to provide a dining experience that is not only nutritious but also enjoyable for our residents.

Additional Amenities for Enhanced Comfort

Beyond meal preparation, The Retreat at Church Ranch offers a range of amenities to enhance the overall living experience for our residents. These include:

Incontinence Supplies and Toiletries

Understanding the importance of personal care, we provide incontinence supplies and toiletries, ensuring that residents have access to the essentials for their comfort and well-being. Our commitment to resident satisfaction extends to facilitating the availability of these items with convenience.

Beauty and Barber Shop Services

In our pursuit of comprehensive care, we offer on-site beauty and barber shop services. Residents can indulge in haircuts, perms, color treatments, and styling, all within the comfort of our community. Our goal is to provide a holistic living environment that caters to both the physical and emotional well-being of our residents.

Onsite Outsourced Care

To further cater to the diverse needs of our residents, we collaborate with external healthcare professionals. This includes a mobile dentist who conducts appointments directly at our facility. By bringing essential healthcare services on-site, we prioritize the convenience and accessibility of healthcare for our residents.

Pricing Structure and Resident-Centric Approach

At The Retreat at Church Ranch, we are committed to transparency and ensuring our residents feel secure in their living arrangements. Our apartments, ranging from studios to two bedrooms, come with a base monthly rent. Unlike traditional add-on fees, our approach involves providing levels of care based on individual needs determined through a standardized assessment. This ensures that residents only pay for the care they require without the burden of unexpected charges.

In conclusion, The Retreat at Church Ranch is more than just an assisted living community; we are dedicated to providing a holistic living experience for our residents. Our focus on meal preparation is a testament to our commitment to their health, well-being, and independence.

To learn more about our services and how we prioritize the needs of our clients, please click here for detailed information. If you have any questions or would like to connect with us, feel free to call us at (303) 469-7178 or email us at info@theretreatatchurchranch.com . We look forward to the opportunity to discuss how The Retreat at Church Ranch can be the ideal home for you or your loved one.

Unlocking the Many Benefits of Assisted Living Communities

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 03:39:26 GMT

Unlocking the Many Benefits of Assisted Living Communities

In the beautiful city of Westminster lies a haven for seniors seeking comfort, care, and community - The Retreat at Church Ranch . As a premier Assisted Living Community, we take pride in offering a range of services designed to cater to the unique needs of our residents. In this blog, we will explore the myriad benefits that assisted living communities bring to the lives of seniors, shedding light on the specific services we provide at The Retreat at Church Ranch .

Understanding the Essence of Assisted Living Communities

Assisted living communities have become synonymous with a lifestyle that prioritizes well-being, social interaction, and personalized care. As the golden years approach, individuals seek environments that not only provide safety but also foster a sense of community and purpose. Let's delve into the core advantages.

Assistance Tailored to Your Needs

At The Retreat at Church Ranch , we understand that every individual has unique requirements. Our services encompass a wide range, ensuring that residents receive personalized assistance. From medication administration to daily activities, our certified staff is dedicated to providing support in various aspects of daily life.

Assisting With Medication Administration:

Our certified personnel ensures the delivery and supervision of self-medication, offering reminders to ensure optimal health and well-being.

Personal Care and ADL Assistance:

Residents benefit from round-the-clock support, including assistance with bathing, dressing, and other activities of daily living (ADL).

Nutrition Program and Dining Experience:

A well-balanced meal is crucial for a healthy lifestyle. Our meal and nutrition program, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, ensures that residents receive the nourishment they need.

Additional Amenities for Enhanced Comfort

The Retreat goes beyond the basics, offering additional amenities for an extra charge. These optional services are designed to cater to individual preferences and enhance the overall living experience.

Incontinence Supplies and Toiletries:

For added convenience, we provide incontinence supplies and toiletries, ensuring that residents have access to necessary personal care items.

Beauty/Barber Shop and Diabetic RN Footcare:

Pamper yourself with our on-site beauty and barber services, starting at $12 for haircuts. We also offer diabetic RN foot care to prioritize holistic well-being.

Room Service and Unscheduled Transportation:

Residents can opt for room service, with the first meal of the day always free. Unscheduled transportation services are also available for added flexibility.

Transparent Pricing and No Surprise Charges

One distinctive feature of The Retreat is our commitment to transparent pricing. We offer a variety of apartment sizes and floor plans, each with a base monthly rent assigned. To ensure residents can age in place without financial surprises, we provide levels of care rather than additional fees. Any increase in care levels, determined by a standardized assessment, is added to the base rate, eliminating unexpected charges.

Connecting Communities Across Westminster and Beyond

Our Assisted Living Community proudly welcomes residents from Westminster, Arvada, Broomfield, Boulder, Longmont, Erie, Thornton, Denver, Louisville, and the surrounding areas. The diversity of our community enriches the living experience, fostering connections that transcend geographical boundaries.

In conclusion, The Retreat at Church Ranch stands as a beacon of support, community, and care for seniors seeking a fulfilling assisted living lifestyle. Our commitment to tailored assistance, transparent pricing, and a vibrant community sets us apart. To learn more about our services, please click here or contact us at (303) 469-7178 or email us at info@theretreatatchurchranch.com .

As you consider the path towards a vibrant and supported lifestyle, remember that The Retreat at Church Ranch is not just a place to live but a community to thrive in.

Assisted Living is all about Care, Community, and Quality of Life

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 03:45:51 GMT

Assisted Living is all about Care, Community, and Quality of Life

In the realm of assisted living, it's all about CARE: Care, Community, Quality of Life, and a Caring Community. At The Retreat at Church Ranch , we recognize the significance of these pillars in providing exceptional assisted living services. In this blog as we delve into how these elements intertwine to create an enriching and fulfilling experience for our residents.

1. Care that Puts Residents First

At the heart of our assisted living approach is unwavering care for each resident. Our caregivers are dedicated to understanding the unique needs of every individual and providing compassionate, personalized care that enhances their well-being.

2. Building a Caring Community

We believe that a supportive community can make all the difference. Our residents form meaningful connections with fellow residents and caregivers, fostering a sense of belonging that transcends the physical aspect of care.

3. Prioritizing Quality of Life

Assisted living isn't just about meeting basic needs; it's about enhancing the overall quality of life. We offer engaging activities, entertainment, and opportunities for personal growth that promote a fulfilling and enjoyable lifestyle.

4. Holistic Approach to Wellness

5. Empowering Independence

While care is central, we also value and encourage the independence of our residents. Our approach respects their autonomy and focuses on providing assistance where needed, allowing them to lead fulfilling lives on their terms.

In the realm of Assisted Living, the triumvirate of Care, Community, and Quality of Life reigns supreme. It's a harmonious blend where compassionate support meets vibrant companionship, resulting in an environment where residents thrive. Embracing these pillars ensures not just assistance, but a life rich in fulfillment, shared experiences, and a true sense of belonging.

If you’re looking for an assisted living experience that centers around care, community, and enhancing the quality of life, then contact The Retreat at Church Ranch. Our commitment to these principles ensures that residents not only receive the care they require but also thrive in an environment that emphasizes holistic well-being and meaningful connections.

Get in touch with us today

To learn more about what we have, please click here. To contact us, please click here or call us at (303) 469-7178 .

Tips for Choosing an Assisted Living Community

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 03:57:17 GMT

Tips for Choosing an Assisted Living Community

The process of choosing an assisted living community can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. At The Retreat at Church Ranch , we understand the importance of making the right decision for yourself or your loved ones. In this blog, we'll guide you through essential tips that revolve around the concept of care, caregiving, and a nurturing care community, ensuring that you make an informed choice that aligns with your needs.

1. Assess Your Needs and Preferences

The foundation of selecting an assisted living community is understanding the care needs and preferences of the individual. Consider factors such as medical requirements, lifestyle preferences, and the level of assistance needed.

2. Research the Quality of Care

Quality care is non-negotiable. Research the reputation of the assisted living facility, read reviews, and speak with current residents or their families to gauge the level of care provided.

3. Visit Potential Communities

Nothing beats an in-person visit. Arrange tours of the communities you're considering to get a feel for the atmosphere, the living spaces, and the overall environment. Pay attention to cleanliness, staff interactions, and the overall vibe.

4. Talk to Staff and Residents

Engage with the caregivers and staff members to understand their approach to caregiving. Additionally, interacting with residents can provide valuable insights into their experiences and overall satisfaction.

5. Evaluate Activities and Engagement

Assisted living should be about more than just care; it should foster a sense of community and engagement. Inquire about the variety of activities offered and how they align with the interests of the residents.

6. Check Safety Measures

Safety is of utmost importance. Ensure that the community has proper safety measures in place, including emergency response systems, well-maintained facilities, and trained staff.

7. Consider Location

Location plays a significant role in maintaining connections with family and friends. Choose a community that is conveniently located and offers easy access to medical facilities and other amenities.

In the journey of finding the perfect assisted living community, these tips serve as guiding beacons. By considering aspects like location, amenities, staff expertise, and resident feedback, individuals and families can make informed decisions. Remember, the right choice promises not just care, but a vibrant chapter of life filled with comfort, companionship, and contentment.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive guide to choosing the perfect assisted living community that prioritizes care and community, then contact The Retreat at Church Ranch . At The Retreat at Church Ranch , we take pride in offering a nurturing care environment that meets the needs of our residents while fostering a sense of belonging. Follow these tips to make a confident choice that promotes a fulfilling and enriched life.

Get in touch with us today

To learn more about what we have, please click here. To contact us, please click here or call us at (303) 469-7178 .

10 Benefits of Assisted Living Facilities

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 04:06:07 GMT

10 Benefits of Assisted Living Facilities

Assisted living provides essential support and care for individuals, promoting both their physical well-being and emotional comfort, and enhancing their quality of life. It fosters a sense of community and safety, enabling seniors to maintain independence while receiving necessary help with daily activities. At The Retreat at Church Ranch , we understand that quality care and a caring community are paramount. In this blog, we'll explore the 10 remarkable benefits of assisted living, all of which revolve around the concept of care, caregiving, and a nurturing care community.

1. Enhanced Quality Care for Every Resident

Prioritizing Enhanced Quality Care, our assisted living facility is dedicated to providing personalized and compassionate support to every resident. Through individualized care plans, experienced staff, and a focus on holistic well-being, we ensure that each resident enjoys a life of comfort, dignity, and fulfillment. Our commitment to Excellence in Care sets the standard for a vibrant and thriving community.

2. Welcoming and Supportive Quality Care Community

Our care community is a warm and welcoming haven, where residents find not just support, but a true sense of belonging. With a focus on fostering connections, our residents experience a supportive environment that promotes their physical, emotional, and social well-being. Together, we create a tapestry of care that celebrates individuality while nurturing a strong sense of community.

3. Personalized Caregiving Plans

Every person is different, and so are their care requirements. Our personalized care plans guarantee that each resident receives the exact level of assistance they need, promoting independence while addressing their unique challenges.

4. Peace of Mind for Families

Families often worry about the well-being of their loved ones. Assisted living provides families with peace of mind, knowing that their family members are in a safe, caring environment where their needs are met with compassion.

5. Engaging Quality Care Activities for a Fulfilling Life

Quality care is about more than just physical well-being; it's about nurturing the spirit. At The Retreat, we offer a wide range of engaging activities that promote mental, spiritual, emotional, and social stimulation, ensuring that residents enjoy a fulfilling life.

6. Nutritious Dining and Health Monitoring

Proper nutrition is a cornerstone of good health. Our assisted living facility offers well-balanced, delicious meals that cater to specific dietary needs. Additionally, our care team closely monitors residents' health to address any concerns promptly.

7. Assistance with Daily Quality Care

Assisted living is designed to provide assistance with daily activities while respecting each resident's independence. Our caregivers are there to help with tasks like bathing, dressing, medication management, and more.

8. Maintenance-Free Living

Say goodbye to the worries of home maintenance. Assisted living provides a maintenance-free living environment, allowing residents to focus on enjoying life to the fullest.

9. Transportation Services

Maintaining an active social life is crucial. Our transportation services ensure that residents can attend events, medical appointments, and outings without any hassle.

10. Focus on Overall Well-being through Quality Care

Our paramount focus is nurturing overall well-being through unwavering quality care. By integrating physical, emotional, and mental health support, we empower residents to lead fulfilling lives in an environment that prioritizes their holistic wellness.

Choosing an assisted living facility is a significant decision that can greatly enhance one's quality of life. If you’re looking for a caring community that provides top-quality assisted living care, then contact The Retreat at Church Ranch today and discover the benefits of a life enriched with care. At The Retreat at Church Ranch , we take pride in providing top-quality care and creating a caring community that focuses on the well-being of each resident.

Get in touch with us today

To learn more about what we have, please click here. To contact us, please click here or call us at (303) 469-7178 .

Discovering The Perfect Assisted Living Residence: A Comprehensive Guide For Caring Children

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 04:12:35 GMT

Discovering The Perfect Assisted Living Residence: A Comprehensive Guide For Caring Children

Embracing the next chapter of life can be exciting and overwhelming, especially when it comes to finding the ideal assisted living residence for your beloved parents. At The Retreat at Church Ranch , we understand the significance of this decision and the challenges it entails. That’s why we’ve crafted this beginner’s guide to help you navigate through the process with confidence and ease. By following these steps, you’ll gain the necessary insights to make an informed choice and find a community that meets your parent’s unique needs while ensuring their comfort, happiness, and overall well-being. So, let’s embark on this journey together and empower ourselves to make the best decision for our loved ones.

Understanding the Importance of Due Diligence

When it comes to finding the perfect assisted living residence, due diligence is paramount. Begin by engaging with the assisted living Administrator during your visits. Each Administrator possesses their own expertise and insights, providing a glimpse into the quality and dedication of the community. Observe their ability to identify your family member’s needs and how they propose to address them. These initial interactions will give you invaluable insights into the community’s approach to care.

Assessing Your Parent’s Unique Needs

To prepare for your due diligence, it’s essential to have a comprehensive understanding of your parent’s physical, psychological, social/emotional, and spiritual needs. Consider factors such as complex medication regimens or behavioral challenges like agitation, anger, or depression. It’s these intricate issues that the chosen facility must have proven expertise in handling. By having a clear picture of your parent’s requirements, you can better evaluate and compare the offerings of each assisted living community you visit.

Steps to an Informed Decision

Step 1: Explore Nearby Assisted Living Communities

Set your mind to visit as many assisted living communities close to your location as possible. The more you explore, the better equipped you’ll be to make a well-informed choice. Remember, knowledge is power.

Step 2: Create a Written Description of Needs

Before each visit, draft a written description of your parent’s needs. Follow this script during your tours to help you better understand and compare the information you receive. This consistent approach will allow you to focus on the core aspects of care and identify the communities that align with your parent’s requirements.

Step 3: Take Detailed Notes

During each tour, take meticulous notes. Observe how well the tour guide listens and genuinely cares about your parent’s well-being. Are they focused on addressing your loved one’s needs or merely showcasing the aesthetics of the community? Additionally, evaluate the stability and maturity of the staff, as turnover in key positions can impact the quality of care provided.

Keeping the End Goal in Sight

Amidst the multitude of considerations, it’s crucial to keep your eyes fixed on the ultimate goal: finding a community that can best cater to your parent’s care needs at a cost that aligns with your situation. With a clear understanding of your parent’s requirements and thorough research, you can confidently make decisions that prioritize their well-being.

The Power of Research and Follow-Up

Don’t rush into hasty or uninformed decisions. Conduct thorough research by checking community reviews, complaints, and public surveys. These resources provide valuable insights into the experiences of residents and families. Additionally, follow up with the assisted living community after your visits. By maintaining open communication, you can address any lingering questions or concerns.

Navigating the process of finding an assisted living residence for your parents may seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can become a rewarding and empowering journey. At The Retreat at Church Ranch , we understand the challenges you face and the importance of making an informed decision. Our team of dedicated professionals is here to support you every step of the way. With our exceptional care, comfortable living spaces, and enriching community, we provide the ideal environment for your loved ones to thrive.

Get in touch with us today!

To learn more about the services we offer, please click here. To get in touch with us, please click here or give us a call at (303) 469-7178 .

Discover The Inspiring Journey Of Bill Thomas: Revolutionizing Assisted Living And Care Homes

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 04:21:27 GMT

Discovering The Perfect Assisted Living Residence: A Comprehensive Guide For Caring Children

In the bustling cities of Westminster, Arvada, Broomfield, Boulder, Longmont, Erie, Thornton, Denver, Louisville, and the surrounding areas, there is a quiet revolution taking place in the realm of retirement, assisted living, and care home services. Today, we shine a spotlight on a visionary pioneer who has forever transformed the industry with his innovative concepts and unwavering dedication. Join us as we delve into the remarkable journey of Bill Thomas, a true thought leader who has left an indelible mark on the world of senior care.

A Legacy of Transformation

Bill Thomas revolutionized and helped reform the long-term care/assisted living industry with two key concepts: The Eden Alternative and The Green House Project. These groundbreaking initiatives have not only brought about positive change but have also become symbols of hope and progress for countless individuals and families in need.

The Eden Alternative: Embracing Life’s Joys

At the heart of Bill Thomas’ visionary philosophy lies The Eden Alternative. This innovative concept empowers residents to stay connected with and enjoy the real world around them, even in the face of isolating circumstances. By creating a nurturing environment that encourages active engagement, The Eden Alternative ensures that each individual’s unique needs and desires are met, fostering a sense of purpose and fulfillment in their daily lives.

The Green House Project: Redefining Care Homes

Building upon the success of The Eden Alternative, Bill Thomas introduced The Green House Project—a transformative approach to assisted living that challenges the traditional institutional model. Instead of large, impersonal facilities, The Green House offers a more intimate setting, resembling a cozy cottage with 12 bedrooms surrounding a family room and kitchen. By reducing the scale of care to a personal level, residents can truly feel at home, surrounded by a warm and welcoming community.

Embracing Innovation and Overcoming Challenges

Bill Thomas’ audacious ideas were not without risks. When proposing groundbreaking concepts, pioneers often face opposition, criticism, and resistance from those unwilling to let go of the status quo. However, through his determination and unwavering belief in the power of change, Bill Thomas persevered and successfully brought his revolutionary ideas to fruition. His unwavering dedication has earned him well-deserved acclaim and recognition.

A Shared Vision at The Retreat at Church Ranch

At The Retreat at Church Ranch , our assisted living community in Westminster, we proudly align ourselves with Bill Thomas’ vision and philosophies. Our programs are thoughtfully designed to improve the overall health and well-being of our residents, helping them stay connected to the world around them despite their unique circumstances. Just like The Green House Project, we strive to create a dynamic community that eliminates any institutional feel, ensuring that each resident experiences personalized care and genuine warmth throughout their journey.

The impact of Bill Thomas’s ideas on our business at The Retreat at Church Ranch cannot be overstated. We have gained a well-deserved reputation in the Westminster assisted living community thanks to our deep knowledge and respect for his visionary concepts. Without the influence of Bill Thomas and other industry pioneers like Victor Regnier, our assisted living business would have remained sterile and less accommodating to the humanity of our beloved residents.

Are you seeking a retirement, assisted living, or care home experience that goes beyond the ordinary? At The Retreat at Church Ranch , we invite you to embark on a transformative journey where your needs, desires, and well-being take center stage.

Get in touch with us today!

To learn more about the services we offer, please click here. To get in touch with us, please click here or give us a call at (303) 469-7178 .

Embracing Stewardship: Nurturing A Caring Assisted Living Community At The Retreat At Church Ranch

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 04:29:46 GMT

Embracing Stewardship: Nurturing A Caring Assisted Living Community At The Retreat At Church Ranch

Discover the power of stewardship and how it can transform your experience at The Retreat at Church Ranch . As one of the leading assisted living communities in the Denver area, we take pride in our commitment to excellence. Through the practice of stewardship, we strive to maintain the high standards we have achieved while nurturing a caring and supportive environment for all who live, work, and visit our assisted living community. In this blog post, we will delve into the essence of stewardship, its benefits, and how it adds value to our assisted living community and ourselves. Join us on this journey as we explore the profound impact of stewardship at The Retreat at Church Ranch .

Understanding Stewardship

Stewardship is the foundation upon which our assisted living community is built. It encompasses a set of values and actions that enable us to be good caretakers of our surroundings, relationships, and resources. At The Retreat at Church Ranch , stewardship is not simply a responsibility; it is a way of life. We embrace trustworthiness, respect for our roles, and the initiative to go above and beyond. By practicing wisdom, sobriety, and the generosity of spirit, we create an environment where gratitude and respect flourish. Stewardship also involves shrewdness in decision-making and caring for oneself and others. These traits together form the core of our commitment to maintaining an exceptional living experience for all.

The Benefits of Stewardship

By incorporating stewardship into every aspect of our assisted living community, we foster a sense of belonging, purpose, and fulfillment. The benefits extend to our residents, staff, and everyone involved with The Retreat at Church Ranch . When you choose to be a part of our assisted living community, you not only gain access to top-notch assisted living services but also experience the profound impact of stewardship on your overall well-being. Stewardship enriches our lives by creating a supportive network, promoting meaningful connections, and encouraging personal growth. It is through stewardship that we build an assisted living community that feels like home.

Cultivating a Caring Environment

At The Retreat at Church Ranch , we understand the importance of nurturing and encouraging one another. Our commitment to stewardship is reflected in the compassionate care we provide to our residents. Our dedicated staff embodies the values of stewardship, going above and beyond to ensure the comfort, happiness, and safety of every individual. By embracing stewardship, we create an atmosphere where each person feels valued, heard, and respected. We recognize the uniqueness of every resident and strive to meet their individual needs while fostering a sense of community and belonging.

As you can see, stewardship is at the heart of everything we do at The Retreat at Church Ranch . By embracing stewardship, we have built an assisted living community that thrives on trust, respect, and compassion. Our commitment to excellence extends beyond our physical location, enriching the lives of our residents, staff, and all those connected to our assisted living community. If you are seeking a retirement or assisted living community in Westminster, Arvada, Broomfield, Boulder, Longmont, Erie, Thornton, Denver, Louisville, or the surrounding areas, we invite you to experience the transformative power of stewardship at The Retreat at Church Ranch .

To learn more about our assisted living community and the benefits of stewardship, please visit our website at https://www.theretreatatchurchranch.com/. We are here to answer any questions you may have and help you embark on this journey of care, compassion, and fulfillment. Contact us today to schedule a visit and discover how The Retreat at Church Ranch can solve all the challenges you or your loved ones may be facing. Together, let’s create a vibrant and nurturing environment where you can truly thrive.

What Customers Love About The Retreat at Church Ranch

Tue, 02 May 2023 04:34:49 GMT

What Customers Love About The Retreat at Church Ranch

At The Retreat at Church Ranch , we love making our customers happy. But don’t just take it from us! Here’s what our satisfied customers have to say:

Dear Staff at The Retreat at Church,

Did you know that my mother called you her “Retreat Angels”? What an incredibly special experience I had with all of you while letting go of my dear precious mother. Each and every one of you took the time to love my mama and me. What a blessed and sacred experience we had together. Thank you, and Bless you.

- C.E.

Dear Cindy,

My father was very happy at The Retreat at Church Ranch and never asked to leave. I am truly grateful that you trusted me and gave my father the chance to flourish as best he could under your loving care at your wonderful facility. I will forever be grateful to you and your staff. Thank you, dear lady, and God bless. In Peace.

- A.T.

Dear Retreat at Church Ranch,

Our mother was so nervous and afraid to leave her home and move into your community. After just a few days, she didn’t want to leave! She’s made new friends, loves the staff that spends such a wonderful time with her and says the food and activities are something she looks forward to every day. Thanks for all the fantastic things you do for our Mom! Dear Cindy, You and your staff are just precious. We never dreamed our Mom and Dad would be living in a community that provides for them so well. The food, the staff, the activities, and the whole community is just great. We couldn’t be happier! Thanks so much.

- Family of Resident

To all the Residents and Staff at The Retreat,

We just wanted to send a note to thank all of you for making our Mother’s life the past year and a half an enjoyable one for her. She certainly felt at home at The Retreat. It made us secure knowing that she was among friends and that she was safe and comfortable there. The excellent staff made sure that all of her needs were taken care of. Thank you for your thoughtfulness and kindness and for taking those few moments to spend with her when you did. We appreciate it very much.

- The F. Family

For the best Retirement, Assisted Living, and Care homes in Westminster, reach out to the experts at The Retreat at Church Ranch . We’re dedicated to providing first-class home care service and want to prove it to you.

Get in touch with us today!

To learn more about the services we offer, please click here. To get in touch with us, please click here or give us a call at (303) 469-7178 .

Long Straw Club

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 04:38:46 GMT

Long Straw Club

Twenty-five years ago we started The Long Straw Club at our first assisted living community to fulfill an intention to provide a more meaningful and deeper spiritual and intellectual experience for our elders. In these early heady days of 2000, we tried a lot of different approaches, including reading Dante's Inferno, which became a standing-room-only event that Denver's Channel 9 showed up to tape one day.

Today we heard from Maya that Lhoppon (pronounced Lopin) Rinpoche is excited to join us once a month for the Long Straw Club. Maya is Rinpoche's secretary. Their Mipham Shedra Tibetan Buddhist Meditation Center is located near The Retreat at Church Ranch . Rinpoche is an honorific title that translates as Precious One in Tibetan.

Additionally, Rabbi Heilman from Congregation B'nai Torah synagogue in Broomfield has also offered to lead the Long Straw Club once a month. This is a great and auspicious beginning in our efforts to find World Wisdom teachers to join the Long Straw Club and lead it into the future. Our residents' spiritual lives and intellectual curiosities will greatly benefit.

We will continue to search for World Wisdom teachers that represent all of the great spiritual traditions to join us. These could be Native American elders, Shamans, Priests, Ministers, etc. All are welcome. If anyone knows of such luminaries, please forward their contact information to me.

Season’s Greetings from The Retreat at Church Ranch

jayson.pagdanganan@engageyourbiz.com (Jayson Pagdanganan) — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 04:56:18 GMT

Season’s Greetings from The Retreat at Church Ranch

To all of the wonderful residents, their families, our staff, and those who serve The Retreat at Church Ranch throughout the year, we wish you the very best of holiday seasons and a fantastic new year!

We cherish the blessings and gifts life brings throughout the year, and as we conclude 2022, we would like to recognize all the wonderful contributions you all have made to make The Retreat at Church Ranch such a wonderful place.

If you need any assistance from us during the holiday season, feel free to get in touch with us by clicking here.

Why You Should Choose The Retreat At Church Ranch!

Fri, 28 Oct 2022 05:04:38 GMT

Why You Should Choose The Retreat At Church Ranch!

The retired and elderly people, in the absence of family, must seek assistance from care homes that administer medicines, look after personal care, dressing, housekeeping, laundry and bathing.

If you’re looking for retirement, assisted living and a care home, you need to put in a sufficient amount of research in order to find someone that matches your expectations. You need to go through reviews you find online and speak to people who’ve worked with them.

At The Retreat at Church Ranch , we are confident about the services we provide and will not shy away from giving you references. Besides, we will be happy to tell you why we are the top name in retirement, assisted living and care home.

We have been in the retirement community for many years and have several happy clients. If you’re looking for retirement, assisted living and care home, here are a few reasons why we believe you should pick us over the rest of our competition.

1. Our model is care-oriented and personalized

We provide all the basic requirements like medication administration, delicious meals, great activities, personal care and a clean and beautiful environment, and we believe in motivating people based on the Jack Benny Model. When Jack Benny turned 80 and was asked how old he was, he would always reply 39. On some level, we are all young at heart. Our consciousness doesn’t age like our mortal bodies, so we focus on addressing that younger person in our residents.

2. Our approach is mature

Led by a Gerontologist and his longtime wife/partner, ours is a mature model. They have taken care of elderly folks for half a century. We know what we’re doing. The Retreat at Church Ranch is a local and family-owned and operated business.

3. We believe that we should create a healthy business model

We pride ourselves on building a community filled with happy, lovely people. Happiness is essential to a healthy mind and soul. Our motto is “A Lovely Place for Lovely People”, and we live up to our motto.

4. We offer views of scenic beauty

Located in a rural location in the Denver/Boulder corridor, we have views of the rocky mountains, endless grassy grounds and gardens to enjoy. Elementary beauty goes hand in hand with happiness.

5. Our staff is competent, and they trust and respect each other

We put a lot of effort into helping our employees grow emotionally intelligently by opening their hearts and minds. This makes for a calm and competent staff that trusts and respects each other. Our residents feel that trust and respect and join in it, creating a wonderful, easy and enjoyable vibe to work in and live in.

As a leading retirement, assisted living and care home in Westminster, we ensure that we exceed expectations and always put you first.

To learn more about the services we offer at The Retreat at Church Ranch , please click here. To read what our clients are saying about us, please click here . For more information, please call us at (303) 469-7178 or email us at info@theretreatatchurchranch.com .

Is Assisted Living Right For Me?

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 05:11:41 GMT

Is Assisted Living Right For Me?

Moving to an assisted living facility can feel intimidating, overwhelming, and just plain hard. It can mean going through decades of household items, saying goodbye to a family home, and the end of a chapter. It is also the beginning of an awesome new journey with new opportunities and new adventures waiting each day. Assisted living is a type of housing designed for people who need various levels of medical and personal care. Living spaces can be individual rooms, apartments, or shared quarters. The facilities generally provide a home-like setting and are physically designed to promote the resident’s independence.

As experts in the field, we at The Retreat at Church Ranch have written down information that will help you pick the right assisted living facility for your loved ones.

Assisted living communities are regulated by the Department of Health and Environment and are surveyed for quality and compliance with industry regulations regularly. These surveys can be found online on the department’s website. We are committed to full transparency and are happy to share our quality management reports and data.

We ensure that we let you know about the full extent of our services and the quality we deliver. We are proud of our attention to maintaining and improving the health and happiness of our residents. Health and happiness lay at the heart of our mission and purpose. These two factors, health, and happiness are the most important factors when determining quality.

Our clients, whom we refer to as residents of The Retreat at Church Ranch , have full access to the resident committees that have a voice in the services we provide, such as dining, activities, personal care, transportation, etc. We strongly encourage full participation in these committees. If a resident is unhappy, that concern should come to management immediately. We are proud of our responsiveness to all concerns. There is no question that shouldn’t be asked about any service quality issues. Involvement by family is also very important to us. We invite and strongly encourage families to stay involved and visit their family members as often as possible to personally experience whether the quality of care is being delivered in the highest way possible.

We are also proud of our activity offerings that address the full human potential in ways that address the physical, intellectual and spiritual needs of every individual in our care. When thinking of activities, resident involvement and enjoyment are very important. Residents can know they are receiving quality activities in their personal involvement. Moreover, residents are all invited to participate in the Resident Council, where they can express their feelings and make suggestions as to the type and schedule of activities.

As the best retirement, assisted living, and care home in Westminster, we ensure that we exceed expectations and always put you first. Our staff provides continuous protective oversight as well as assists with medication administration, bathing, personal care, and dressing. Housekeeping and laundry are provided weekly. Three delicious meals are included, along with snacks throughout the day. Cable and internet are provided in all rooms. Transportation to scheduled activities is also included. In the absence of family, we can also provide extra support that includes pharmacy and physician coordination.

To learn more about the services we offer at The Retreat at Church Ranch , please click here . To read what our clients are saying about us, please click here . If you have any questions about how we can help you, get in touch with us by clicking here.

Top Five Things To Look For When Choosing An Elder Care Or Assisted Living Facility

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 05:19:27 GMT

Top Five Things To Look For When Choosing An Elder Care Or Assisted Living Facility

With an ever-growing and diverse range of assisted living communities, determining the right assisted care home for your loved one can be time-consuming. But what should you look for?

In an ideal situation, you should think about things like staff friendliness, services, and the overall environment when making your pick. You need to also be prepared with the cost, care plan, and general questions to ask assisted living tour guides and staff to help facilitate the process.

Fortunately, the process doesn’t have to be intimidating or overwhelming. Here are five things to help you narrow down a suitable elder care or assisted living facility for your loved one.

1. Stability

Nothing is worse in the delivery of high-quality elder care than staff turnover. Staff and residents form a special bond and relationship. That relationship deepens and improves over time, with each getting to know the other better and better. For the caregiver, a thorough knowledge of the resident’s personality and character, health situation, social and personal needs, daily routines, and habits helps them to meet that resident’s needs on a daily basis and will tip them off if something is awry and needs special attention. For the resident, there is great comfort in knowing their caregiver’s personality, abilities, and what they can do to help them in any given situation. Trust form is a powerful antidote to loneliness, isolation, worry, and stress. Health and happiness are formed with stable relationships of trust.

2. Maturity

Experience is the best teacher. As owners and operators of The Retreat at Church Ranch , we have been caring for the elderly in our community for a quarter-century. This time spent has given us all the tools and knowledge we need to deliver high-quality care on a consistent and reliable basis. Ours is a mature model with dedicated and competent staff.

3. Ethics

A well-known definition of ethics is “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” We practice this code of conduct at all levels of the organization. It is with this code that our “Circle of Trust and Respect” is formed and strengthened. Management trusts and respects each other, as does the staff. Residents experiencing this conduct join the Circle of Trust and Respect, and their family members do too. When the Circle is complete, the larger community knows it can trust that the delivery of high-quality care is guaranteed.

4. Stewardship

The task of supervising or taking care of something, such as an organization or property, is of paramount importance in our assisted living business. The health of our organization is made of whole cloth, with no frayed edges or areas left unattended. Being good stewards of The Retreat at Church Ranch involves Continuous Improvement in all areas. Nutritious meals, wonderful activities, a clean and well-maintained environment, exterior grounds that are well maintained and enjoyable, and care for each other and ourselves all constitute good stewardship.

5. Partnership

Service, not selfishness, is a key to strong partnerships. No one does all the work, nor is anyone seeking more recognition than the others. The collaborative effort comes from the efforts of each individual partner contributing to the whole. Being in the mind of service in helping others keeps the partnership humble and strong. A partnership cannot be successful when the behavior, manipulation, and poor attitude of one person negatively affect everyone else. We see this as a component of emotional maturity and insist on it for everyone in the organization.

If you are looking for a Westminster Retirement, Assisted Living, and Care Home, reach out to us at The Retreat at Church Ranch . Our staff provides continuous protective oversight, along with medication administration, bathing, personal care, and dressing. We provide delicious meals and assist people with a wide range of services to make their stay the most comfortable and memorable.

We have residents in our elder care home from across Westminster, Arvada, Broomfield, Boulder, Longmont, Erie, Thornton, Denver, Louisville, and the surrounding areas.

To learn more about the services we offer, please click here . To get in touch with us, please click here.

A Handbook To Assisted Living Primer By The Retreat At Church Ranch

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 05:28:21 GMT

A Handbook To Assisted Living Primer By The Retreat At Church Ranch

As your loved ones age with time, it gets harder for them to manage with activities of daily living. Most of the time, you might feel guilty about being unavailable to help them with their daily chores. Moreover, owing to your professional duties, it may not be possible to provide the right amount of attention when they need it.

Although deciding they may need support beyond what you can provide is a difficult decision. But if you’re struggling to get your parents and grandparents the care they need, assisted living facilities are the best option.

At The Retreat at Church Ranch , we recognize the challenges of aging and are dedicated to providing a fulfilling lifestyle to our elderly residents by promoting independence. To offer the best care, we must get to know them well and discover their individual needs.

In this blog, we will give you a glimpse into what exactly we do and how we serve our elderly residents. Keep reading to know more.

Our support and services

1. Health care

In order to become a member of The Retreat at Church Ranch , a thorough and professional assessment is conducted to determine the health care needs of a potential resident. The primary purpose of this assessment is to make sure that our facility is an appropriate place to live.

2. Community

The Retreat at Church Ranch has as its motto, “A Lovely Place for Lovely People.” We managed to craft a highly functional community that makes for a great place to live by conducting the assessment in a way that covers all the bases. We try to admit folks into our community that we can serve well and who is a good fit for the community.

We are a single-floor, somewhat more intimate community than many of our competitors, and while some folks fit in better in larger communities, some don’t. We have years of making good judgment calls in our assessment process.

3. Integration with the larger health care service providers

While assisted living communities provide activities of daily living such as maintaining a safe environment, communication, breathing (O2 services), eating and hydration, toileting, personal cleansing and dressing (laundry), monitoring vitals, mobility, working and playing, expressing spirituality, sleeping and dying, it is also true that these are delivered in a way that sustains trust and respect between all involved. This often means that if there are additional professional services that a resident would benefit from, such as strength conditioning, physical rehabilitation, psychological services, pain management (as well as other clinical services), or hospice services, for example, the assisted living community should provide a trusted and competent source for these additional services. Our assisted living facility is a mature and stable community under experienced and competent leadership. We have a well-integrated team of professionals our residents can rely on. Also, we offer a comprehensive and holistic array of healthcare services to meet every need of an individual.

4. Environment

Many assisted living communities like to sell their fancy chandeliers and expensive furnishings when the quality of care truly matters. We, on the other hand, understand that the environment needs to be clean, functional, and attractive at our assisted living facility without being unnecessarily pretentious and expensive. Our newly remodeled interior is tastefully done without being pretentious. It is modeled after the Rocky Mountains in its color scheme and artwork. We’re very proud of it!

5. Team

In the many years that ownership and management have worked in assisted living, they have always strived to deliver a highly functional community. Since we are in the health care business, our approach is that we should display a healthy organization. We have a competent team of professionals who demonstrate good judgment, are professional and are always pleasant. We refer to this as the “Circle of Trust and respect.” Management and staff, and residents trust and respect each other. This makes a community free from rancor, disputes, dysfunction, and uncomfortableness. What a lovely place to live!

6. Home

This is your home, and we want you to make it as comfortable, supportive, and enjoyable as possible. We are here to assist you, but often your family knows what makes you happiest, and we’re just here to support that effort.

7. Health

Whether it’s great nutritious food, a welcoming and enjoyable social or activities program, or accessible and beautiful outdoors to walk around in and enjoy, our facility has what you’re looking for to maximize your health and happiness.

8. Resident rights

You are an individual that deserves to be treated with dignity and respect and to make choices that best fit your lifestyle and suit your needs. As long as you are safe and conducting yourself for the benefit of everyone involved, your rights shall not be infringed upon.

For more details on our assisted living facility and care, reach out to The Retreat at Church Ranch . We are a Westminster retirement and assisted living community that is uniquely designed to offer senior residents more access to personal care. We have high standards when it comes to quality and continuously look for ways to improve our services towards our elderly seniors. We have residents in our assisted living community from across Westminster, Arvada, Broomfield, Boulder, Longmont, Erie, Thornton, Denver, Louisville, and the surrounding areas.

To learn more about our services, please click here , or get in touch with us by clicking here.

What Makes The Retreat at Church Ranch Stand Out

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 05:36:25 GMT

What Makes The Retreat at Church Ranch Stand Out

Thanks for stopping by our blog. If you’re looking for more information about The Retreat at Church Ranch , you’ve come to the right place.

About The Retreat at Church Ranch

We are a retirement care home in Westminster, CO. Our facility is a forty-seven apartment assisted-living community licensed for a total of fifty-five residents. It sits in a newly renovated building in the Denver/Boulder corridor at 10190 Wadsworth Blvd.

It’s graced with a beautiful courtyard and spacious garden area that has been designated as a Monarch butterfly waystation. It offers a wonderful walking and therapeutic area.

The Retreat at Church Ranch has been in existence since 1998. In March of 2014, Robin and Cindy Avery became the sole owners when they executed an equity swap with the majority stakeholders and obtained a loan to buy out all the partners.

Cindy has been involved in the operational side of the retreat since 2005. As the administrator, she helped turn a poorly performing community into the best in its class. Today, Robin and Cindy have over half a century of combined experience caring for the elderly.

Our care home primarily serves the communities of Arvada, Westminster, Broomfield, and Boulder. We have also attracted residents from all around Denver and other states who move to Colorado to be closer to their children and grandchildren.

The Retreat at Church Ranch Difference

One aspect that makes us second to none is that we consistently make residents happy. It’s often said that happiness is health, and in that regard, our residents are very healthy. In addition, we care about the happiness of our team.

What also sets us apart is that we offer a holistic approach to home care as we understand that the body ages faster than our souls. Therefore our carers work diligently day in and day out to meet the personal, spiritual, social, and meaningful fulfillment of our residents.

As a result, if a prospective client looks at the competition and compares them to us, we win almost every time due to our happier, more competent, and more aspirational vibe.

In our efforts to meet all of our resident’s needs, we’ve tracked performance data for years, and our record consists of a son who visited forty-four communities before picking us. It’s success stories like this one that make us feel incredibly proud.

One of our most significant achievements has been receiving recognition from the NIC to deliver high-quality care to our residents. For many years, the NIC has conducted a quarterly survey of all the large (eighteen plus beds) assisted living communities in the Denver market. We are consistently number one in the highest occupancy, reflecting our popularity.

Our dream for the future is to get even better while keeping residents and staff happy (healthy). In this endeavor, we always maintain a continuous improvement program and employ the Jack Benny theory, who continued celebrating his thirty-ninth birthday until his death at eighty.

To learn more about all we do at The Retreat at Church Ranch , please click here . If you have any questions about how we can help you, we’d love to hear from you. Please get in touch with us here.

Why You Should Choose The Retreat at Church Ranch!

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 05:44:08 GMT

Why You Should Choose The Retreat at Church Ranch!

Moving to an assisted living facility can feel intimidating, overwhelming, and just plain hard. It can mean going through decades of household items, saying goodbye to a family home, and the end of a chapter. It is also is the beginning of an awesome new journey with new opportunities and new adventures waiting each day. Many assisted living communities today offer a continuum of care with services ranging from independent living, assistance with activities of daily living, and memory care. This allows residents to stay in a community, even if needs should change over time.

If you’re looking for a retirement, assisted living, and care home, you need to put in a sufficient amount of research to find someone that matches your expectations. You need to go through reviews you find online and speak to people who’ve worked with them. At The Retreat at Church Ranch , we are confident about the services we provide and will not shy away from giving you references. Besides, we will be happy to tell you why we are the top name in retirement and assisted living.

We have been in the retirement, assisted living, and care home industry for many years and the vast majority of our clients are extremely happy. If you’re looking for a retirement, assisted living, and care home, here are a few reasons why we believe you should pick us over the rest of our competition.

Family-owned business with stable staff and a mature business model

There are many reasons why a family-owned and operated community might have a much more personal, homelike, and comfortable feeling than a big conglomerate corporation. At a family-owned community, it’s usually not just about business. We are more resident-centered and employee-centered as far as the focus goes. Family-owned communities care just as much about the staff, which could be brothers, aunts, and cousins, as they do the residents. And in our experience, happy staff means happy residents. Our mission is to serve with love everyone involved, which includes the resident, their family, and the staff that provide care.

Motto of dedication

Our motto is “A lovely place for lovely people.” This means that we don’t just fill rooms for revenue, we admit residents and families that contribute to our community. At our family-owned and operated facility, the team members and care partners are empowered to make decisions and respond attentively to resident and family needs. Likewise, our residents are encouraged to comfortably step out of their comfort zones and live life to the fullest.

Excellent COVID-19 protocols

Since the initial cases of COVID-19 were identified, the unique vulnerability of older adults has been painfully demonstrated with several nursing home–associated outbreaks. As a consequence, strict protocols have been put into place in assisted living facilities. As the name implies, assisted living facilities to provide older adults with a range of assistance for activities of daily living. We make sure we enact strict isolation policies to protect the health of residents and staff. We do an excellent job in the area of infection control.

Significant remodel

To create a warm and welcoming environment in an assisted living facility, the facility needs to be not only beautiful and elegant but also strategically applied to fit the needs of the residents. Natural light brightens a room and makes it more welcoming and cheerier, and helps improve sleep cycles. Exposure to natural light, through skylights or picture windows, can increase exposure to Vitamin D, helping to reduce ailments like Osteoporosis and lower blood pressure. Keeping all this in mind, we just completed a significant remodel and are delighted to present a modern, bright and beautiful décor both inside and outside.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Choosing An Assisted Living Facility

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 05:49:43 GMT

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Choosing An Assisted Living Facility

Finding assisted living options in Denver can be simple, with many of them providing a really good service. That said, you have to make sure you are working with people that are listening carefully to your needs and requirements and not just trying to fill an empty room. You have to make sure that the assisted living community you will choose can deliver on their promises of excellent care for your family member.

We’ve observed that most people are open to finding and settling for the first and easiest option out there. However, they should make sure that the option makes sense and provides for all their personal needs and expectations. While the process should not be too tedious, you have to keep the requirements of the family members who are going to be joining the community. You must also ensure that they are comfortable with the move and open to the improvements in their life that are taking place.

We saw many clients signing bad contracts where they committed to six months to a year, and they later wanted to make changes because something did not meet their requirements. Here are some of the pointers that we noticed, and we are documenting them, so others do not make the same mistakes.

1. Focusing too much on aesthetics

People sometimes will choose an assisted living community based on how fancy the common areas are. While the common areas are an important part of the process, you have to make sure that the care is personalized and meets a high standard. You should make sure that the overall quality of care, meals, activities, etc., is beyond par, or regrets will set in. The last thing an elderly person needs is regrets!

2. Not taking time to tour multiple facilities

Families should personally visit at least three assisted living communities and ask key questions about the care their elderly family member will receive. You should use the information gathered from the others when you are having a conversation which would give you a better understanding of the processes that they all follow. Most importantly, check in with your feelings. You’ll know when you are talking to someone truly interested in meeting the needs of your family member and who is just doing a job.

3. Failing to consider your family member’s complete needs

Families searching for a place for their parent(s) to live need to have a clear expectation based on the exact physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of their family member(s) and ask questions about how those needs will be met. Additionally, they should consider their health requirements to make sure that they are in competent hands. The best places will ask a lot of questions, listen carefully, and complete a thorough assessment. Then, they will share with you what they have heard and how they will deliver what is necessary for a satisfactory experience.

4. Not understanding and assisting in this delicate transition

After a parent moves into an assisted living community, there is a period of adjustment where the family may need to provide additional emotional support while their parent adapts. Ideally, the place that they are moving to should not be too far away from their home. It should be convenient for their family to visit regularly, especially in the early going. The first couple of days or sometimes months can be challenging, and you want to make sure that they have the emotional support of all involved to satisfactorily make the transition.

5. Forgetting to pay enough attention to healthcare services

Family members are often faced with a period of changing and often complex health conditions, often a declining health condition, where it is important to listen to the professionals. They should be open to listening to doctors or other medical staff and following any prescription or diet needs being prescribed. A good assisted living community will have a resource pool they have worked with for a long time and that is trusted to deliver sound medical and clinical services.

6. Failure to be a good partner

With a parent in decline, families are often faced with stressful situations that can be filled with stress, anxiety, and uncertainty. It is important to remain calm, recognizing and accepting all the medical, emotional, and spiritual support that is available. Having chosen the right place, you can actively participate in what is a sacred duty and be happy with your decision, in peace instead of pain and anxiety.

If you are looking for an assisted living facility, connect with us at The Retreat at Church Ranch . Our staff provides continuous protective oversight while also assisting with medication administration, bathing, personal care, and dressing. We have been working with the elderly for a long time now and have understood the processes that it takes to get them to feel better about everything. If you want a better understanding of the services that we provide, please click here . If you are looking to get in touch with us or think we can assist in any way, please click here .

Top Five Things To Look For When Working With A Gerontologist And Assisted Living Operator

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 05:57:06 GMT

Top Five Things To Look For When Working With A Gerontologist And Assisted Living Operator

When finding the right assisted living location, make sure they meet the requirements that you have. Through the pandemic, it was challenging for people to get the assistance they needed because most did not plan on leaving their homes. There was enough evidence to believe that the older population would be the slowest to recover from the pandemic, so people did not want to take that chance. There were other changes they were planning as well and wanted to get through those as well.

We had to make sure that the team that we found was the best equipped to assist. They had to stay safe and look after themselves, and take all the precautions because there were chances that they could pass the virus and get others sick.

We learned that many changes were taking place, and people were unsure what they had to look for when deciding that they wanted to work with someone for the job. People were quite uncertain about the qualities that assisted living needed when they were picking them. We decided to create a list of traits that they should select based on to make the process significantly easy for them when they are getting through.

1. Emotional intelligence, maturity, and empathy

When you are looking for someone to assist with the process, you have to make sure they are working because they love the job and not for the money. Of course, we would pay them, but working with the elderly needs a lot of patience and is not just a job that anyone can handle. If they are mature enough to work on it and find it easy to get through, they have found the best job for them. It can get challenging because some people might be difficult to deal with and they have to get used to working with people who are a lot slower with age.

2. Communication skills

People that are working with the old have to have better communication skills. As people get older, they do not communicate the same as they did in the past. You need a lot of patience to understand what they are saying, and you would also need some insights on having been in similar situations. While you can train someone with these skills, you have to make sure you have what it takes before beginning the training program. Working with someone with good communication also helps understand what they are going through, making the entire process easier.

3. Strong work ethic

You need people who are dependable because there are a lot older people who are depending on them. It can be challenging to work with older people if one team member keeps missing meetings or doesn’t show up to work. Most teams have the exact number of people to get through a lot of the tasks and have to make sure that everyone comes in on time to assist each other get through a lot of challenging tasks that keep coming up.

4. Strong ethical sense

You want to make sure that you do not have someone on the team taking advantage of someone who cannot defend themselves, whether physically, mentally, or emotionally. You want to have a team that is always open to making understanding where the other person is coming from and working with that information to get through the process.

5. Ability to learn and improve

The team that you plan on working with should learn on the job and no one is perfect. They would receive new information every day and have to adapt to it if they are planning on growing and getting better at what they do. The team you work with should be pushing themselves to get better because they would be able to get through processes with ease and tasks that took some time in the past, do start getting along a lot faster as you begin working and improving on them. The team you pick should have the initiative to get better and be doing it for their personal growth, which is a motivational factor itself.

If you are looking for a Westminster Retirement, Assisted Living, and Care Home, connect with us at The Retreat at Church Ranch . Our staff provides continuous protective oversight, along with medication administration, bathing, personal care, and dressing. We provide delicious meals and assist people with a wide range of services to make their stay the most comfortable and memorable. If you want a better understanding of the services that we provide, please click here . If you want to get in touch with us or think we can assist in any way, please click here .

Hearts Vs. Minds In Assisted Living

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 06:04:17 GMT

Hearts Vs. Minds In Assisted Living

When you start your search for assisted living for your aging loved one, you’re likely looking for a situation where they will be safe, well cared for, and happy for the rest of their life. However, choosing an assisted living facility can be an emotional decision, not to mention a consequential one. Even when you’re realistic about the need to find an assisted living facility, making the best match can be challenging.

As experts in retirement, assisted living, and home care, we at The Retreat at Church Ranch believe that assisted living is a business of hearts and minds. Good hearts and great minds are both necessary to provide quality care to your loved ones. Read on to find out why!

Hearts

Caregiving takes heart because of the intimacy and relationships that are created between the caregiver and the resident. It is in the hearts of the caregivers that the impetus to provide loving and high-quality care is found. A sensitive and open heart allows for the empathy necessary to truly connect with the human being under their care. This human being is much like the caregiver, although older. They’ve experienced love, anger, joy, and sorrow. They’ve worked hard, given much, and find themselves at the end of their lives. The connection between their primary caregivers and their day-to-day happiness and fulfillment is of utmost importance.

Through heartfelt care, trust is established, and through trust, there can be a sense of relaxation and time to find purpose and meaning free of fear. A warm and open heart is a tender, communicative and selfless orientation to the community and the team of caregivers. An assisted living community filled with warm and open hearts immediately feels great and different from typical communities. Open hearts make the residents happier as well as the staff and management. And a happy community is a healthy community.

Minds

As important as the heart of the caregiver is, their mind also plays a significant role in the task of providing the best care possible. Caregiving requires keen observation skills that are honed through experience. Preventing worsening health is possible only with sharp mental abilities that pay attention to subtle changes in the residences’ behaviors, moods, and complaints. Attention to detail and the ability to read and understand complex medication and medical information all come into play when caring for the elderly.

A sharp mind is usually joined with sharp memories, which can be very helpful in providing consistent care on a day-to-day basis. An alert mind is able to provide attention to detail, which is an important component of high-quality care. Similarly, a strong mind is ever-present and is highly valued as it brings with it a sound judgment that leads to excellent decision-making.

All our residents are served best by caregivers and management that demonstrate both warm hearts and sharp minds. The business of assisted living is human-oriented, as that is whom we care for. To care for humans, we must be great human beings ourselves. And, we believe that it is hearts and minds combined that make up wonderful human beings.

If you are looking for a retirement, assisted living, or care home in Westminster, then reach out to us at The Retreat at Church Ranch . Our staff provides continuous protective oversight as well as assists with medication administration, bathing, personal care, and dressing. Housekeeping and laundry are provided weekly. Three delicious meals are included, along with snacks throughout the day. Cable and internet are provided in all rooms, and transportation to scheduled activities are also made available. In the absence of family, we can even provide extra support that includes pharmacy and physician coordination. Our services include assisting with medication administration, assisting with bathing and dressing, personal care, housekeeping and laundry, meal preparation, transportation services, and daily activities. We have residents in our assisted living community from across Westminster, Arvada, Broomfield, Boulder, Longmont, Erie, Thornton, Denver, Louisville, and the surrounding areas. For a complete list of our services, please click here . If you have any questions about assisted living, we’d love to hear from you. Please contact us here .

Three Ways To Overcome Regulatory Challenges In The Assisted Living Business

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 06:08:42 GMT

Three Ways To Overcome Regulatory Challenges In The Assisted Living Business

Regulatory challenges can be daunting in any industry as there are enormous ramifications for failing to follow guidelines promptly. The assisted living business is no different, as the authorities set hundreds of regulatory demands to safeguard vulnerable patients.

The surveys and inspections conducted by the Department of Health and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) ensure assisted living operators follow best practices. What operators need to be aware of is that these are MINIMAL standards. Therefore, all owners of assisted living businesses should set the bar higher to enable their local communities to receive a quality service consistently.

At The Retreat at Church Ranch , we implement regulatory changes while going above and beyond to ensure our residents live out their golden years in comfort and dignity. Read on to learn how we achieve our objectives.

1. Enhance safety

The issue of safety looms mainly on the regulatory landscape, with building codes and fire codes providing much of the guidance and solutions in this area. Our team regularly carries out inspections of fire safety equipment and mechanical and electrical systems. We rely heavily on scheduled maintenance checklists that help in a proactive way to prevent unwanted incidents.

2. Offer meticulous care

Providing continuous protective oversight for residents is a large umbrella. It includes good nutrition, a solid social program, and proactively keeping medical issues in check and under control. Our staff and management implement these tasks by meticulously paying attention to detail. To continuously improve operations and enhance client care, we also create a leadership culture and offer excellent training.

3. Build trust

Assisted living is a high-trust business that must be taken seriously by owners and operators. To build rapport with clients, we employ staff with character, integrity, and honesty. Our carers are also responsible for conducting services with the highest level of respect for residents.

If you’re striving to set the benchmark for your assisted living business or are seeking a reputed home care facility to look after a loved one during retirement, give us a call today!

At The Retreat at Church Ranch , we render continuous protective oversight and assist with medication administration, bathing, personal care, and dressing. We also offer housekeeping, laundry, delicious meals, cable and internet, and transportation to scheduled activities. In the absence of family, we can provide extra support, including pharmacy and physician coordination for our residents. We have residents coming to stay at our elder care home from across Westminster, Arvada, Broomfield, Boulder, Longmont, Erie, Thornton, Denver, Louisville, and the surrounding areas.

To learn more about how we can help you, please click here or get in touch with us here .

Lives Well Lived

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 06:12:33 GMT

Lives Well Lived

The film “Lives Well Lived” celebrates the wit and wisdom of people aged 75 to 100, who reveal their secrets for living a meaningful life. Don’t miss the public screening of this film, available on PBS stations around the country in September. For the trailer and information about seeing it at station near you, visit: https://www.pbs.org/show/lives-well-lived/

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15953&L=47507&F=H

"Old age, calm, expanded, broad with the haughty breadth of the universe;

Old age, flowing free with the delicious nearby freedom of death.

Old age, superbly rising! O Welcome, ineffable grace of dying days!"

-Walt Whitman

Elders versus Olders

Thu, 02 Sep 2021 06:15:26 GMT

ELDERS versus OLDERS

“While those who become “olders” tend to contribute to the divisions in society, those who act as elders foster unity above self-interest and harmony over conflicts. Despite inevitable bodily aches and pains, genuine elders become the deepest source of life-affirming energy in a culture.“While those who become “olders” tend to contribute to the divisions in society, those who act as elders foster unity above self-interest and harmony over conflicts. Despite inevitable bodily aches and pains, genuine elders become the deepest source of life-affirming energy in a culture.

Being connected to the sage in the heart, elders become instinctive humanitarians who can embody wisdom and serve the highest ideals of humanity. Having survived their own troubles, elders are not shocked or overwhelmed by the crises and conflicts that exist in the world. Having repeatedly seen how things fall apart, elders have also witnessed the uncanny ways in which both nature and culture find roots of renewal. In the dark times, the archetypal energy of the elders tries to awaken and help find ways for creation to continue.”

(Michael Meade, “The Call of the Elder,” Living Myth)

Aging Well: Surprising Guideposts to A Happier Life.

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 06:20:16 GMT

Aging Well: Surprising Guideposts to A Happier Life.

George E. Vaillant, MD. New York: Little, Brown & Co., 2002. Pp. 273. $14.99. ISBN 0-316-09007-7. Pb. Reviewed by Kathryn R. Ward and Geoffrey W. Sutton (Evangel University/Springfield, MO-REVIEW AMENDED BY RACR).

What are the key factors in successful aging? Dr. Vaillant, a noted psychiatrist, researcher, and director of the Harvard Study of Adult Development provides a lucid summary of the findings from the longest longitudinal study of adult development. He offers readers a comprehensive look at a wide range of data in the context of developmental theories. He supports the quantitative findings with salient participant examples that enhance his conclusions and make the work highly readable.

Vaillant divides the book into 12 chapters followed by 11 appendices, research notes, acknowledgments, and various tables and figures. He begins the first chapter with a brief introduction, followed by the basis for the study—not only to observe the process of development but also to understand the factors that influence the process. Next, he defines the variables. For example, he operationally defines successful aging as a “vital reaction to change, to disease, and to conflict” (p. 15), which he continually demonstrates by using excerpts from participant interviews.

He digresses into an examination of the three groups in the study. Formerly individual studies were combined to create the present meta-project. He concludes chapter one with a personal introduction, a disclosure of his biases, and an overview of the advantages and limitations of these prospective studies. In chapter two, Vaillant describes social and emotional maturation. Erikson’s developmental 184 BOOK REVIEWS tasks form the base for the assessment of social development. These were supplemented by two new tasks of career consolidation and keeper of the meaning.

He assessed emotional development using measures based on psychoanalytic coping mechanisms. In chapter three, Vaillant discusses the study’s data on the relationship between childhood factors and adult development. He summarizes the research by stating that “what goes right in childhood predicts the future far better than what goes wrong” (p. 95).

Chapters four through six provide detailed descriptions of the assessments of later adult developmental tasks (generativity, keeper of the meaning, and integrity). All of the findings seem to have supported his earlier hypothesis: that each task (not necessarily all together—some participants did not go through keeper of the meaning) is a predictor of successful aging in its own right. Vaillant mentions in chapter six that mastery of prior tasks is not necessary for successful mastery of later adulthood tasks, but it improves the odds. Physical health is an obvious factor for successful aging. Chapter seven tackles this aspect of aging by focusing primarily on psychosocial health. The study’s measurement consisted of categorizing the participants into two groups: the Happy-Well and the Sad-Sick.

In chapters eight, nine, and ten, he explains the roles of factors such as play, wisdom, and religion. The data support significant positive correlations between the three and successful aging, perhaps though, not in the way one would presume. For example, the research showed that religion played a more important role for those with few social supports than for those who had higher social supports.

In chapter eleven, he discusses the old adage: the more things change, the more they stay the same, to describe personality development throughout the lifespan. Vaillant found that personality traits in adolescence were strong predictors of the same traits in adulthood.

Vaillant brings his work to a close (chapter twelve) by using a garden analogy to summarize the peaceful presence of tending the garden of life and enjoying the fruits of success.

Look for my next column, titled “HaHaHa - Guideposts Along the Way”

Robin Avery- Gerontologist

Retreat at Church Ranch

retreatceorobin@gmail.com

Busted! Don’t Believe These Assisted Living Myths!

Fri, 30 Jul 2021 06:26:20 GMT

Busted! Don’t Believe These Assisted Living Myths!

Most of our aged population plans to stay at home for as long as possible, despite changes in health, mobility, or cognition. Initially, this was a challenge, but with the expansion of home care services in recent years, it’s easy to help aging loved ones live independently at home. Many home care services provide a full range of safe and affordable solutions benefiting elderly loved ones while in a familiar environment. They ensure your loved ones receive timely support and care with an extra set of hands and dedicated medical services as needed. They also make sure your loved one is as comfortable as possible and essential chores around the house are taken care of.

Despite the benefits that home care services offer, there is a whole lot of misinformation about them. Believing in these myths could dissuade you from using the best option for you or your loved ones. To help you steer clear of these misconceptions, The Retreat at Church Ranch has debunked three of the most widely believed myths about assisted living.

Myth 1: Assisted living is like a nursing home

Nursing homes are known as a “medical” model, and assisted living is known as a “social” model. The two are very different, with nursing homes caring for extremely ill individuals and assisted living professionals caring for individuals with a lot to live for and the ability to live fully engaged every day.

Myth 2: Hospice care means their loved ones are going to die soon

That’s not always true. We’ve seen residents under hospice care improve their health and come off of hospice care multiple times. Hospice care increases the services an individual receives, which can greatly improve that person’s health.

Myth 3: When a person moves into an assisted living community, their life is going to get worse, not better

At The Retreat at Church Ranch , we almost always see an improvement in a person’s health, attitude, and social engagement. We’ve seen loving relationships form and have even seen residents get married and live very happily for years!

If you’re looking to steer clear of more myths like these, reach out to The Retreat at Church Ranch . We are a Westminster retirement, assisted living, and care home that offers quality services, including assistance with daily activities, personal care, housekeeping, freshly cooked meals, medication administration, and so on. Our staff are very well trained and equipped, and we are able to cater these services to clients across Westminster, Arvada, Broomfield, Boulder, Longmont, Erie, Thornton, Denver, Louisville, and the surrounding areas.

For a complete list of our services, please click here . If you have any questions about assisted living or elder care, we’d love to hear from you. Please contact us here .

The Moment

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 06:29:25 GMT

The Moment

The moment when, after many years of hard work and a long voyage you stand in the centre of your room, house, half-acre, square mile, island, country, knowing at last how you got there, and say, I own this,

is the same moment when the trees unloose their soft arms from around you, the birds take back their language, the cliffs fissure and collapse, the air moves back from you like a wave and you can't breathe.

No, they whisper. You own nothing. You were a visitor, time after time climbing the hill, planting the flag, proclaiming. We never belonged to you. You never found us. It was always the other way round.

-Margaret Atwood

Walking into Better Health

Fri, 02 Jul 2021 06:35:21 GMT

Walking into Better Health

“When I'm in turmoil, when I can't think, when I'm exhausted and afraid and feeling very, very alone, I go for walks. It's just one of those things I do. I walk and I walk and sooner or later something comes to me, something to make me feel less like jumping off a building.”

― Jim Butcher, Storm Front

“Hope and the future for me are not in lawns and cultivated fields, not in towns and cities, but in the impervious wild.”

― Henry David Thoreau, Walking

The United States is in the throes of an obesity epidemic. More than one-third of American adults are obese, and the estimated annual medical cost of treating obesity-related disease – heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers – is $170 billion. The bad news is these are some of the leading causes of illness and death. The good news is they all preventable and we know the remedy. It costs nothing and it is available to everyone. It’s called walking.

Walkers regularly obtain two precious commodities, health and time, without spending a dime. Walking is an easy, accessible exercise that actually delivers results for everyone. You’ll get more out of it than you put into it. I believe that we can trace the rise of obesity in the United States back to the 1950s when the robust postwar economy fostered a rapid increase in of automobile ownership in our society, which combine with the advent of television delivered a one-two punch to America’s waistlines by taking us off the soles of our feet and literally putting us on the seat of our pants.

Regular walking can be the change agent on the way to better health and a more vibrant aging process. Walking is a metaphor for all of our metaphors. Walking is good for all ages. Kids especially should walk to school. The health benefits are endless. Walking a mile a day lowers the risk of Alzheimer’s while improving mental mood and physical performance. Walking will help you strengthen your heart and drops pounds. It reduces all types of depression while lowering blood pressure. It will help make you happy. Best of all, it’s all on your own steam, and no fossil fuel is required!

Walking can be great entertainment, too, a simple but perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors. In the Denver area, there are many alluring park and trail opportunities. Visit http://hiking.meetup.com/cities/us/co/denver/ to see the many options.

The Ralston Creek Trail is a 12-mile path that winds through my old neighborhood in Arvada Colorado. Mike and his crew at the City of Arvada Parks and Recreation Department deserve a shout-out for keeping it mowed, plowed, and in good repair. I’ve met a lot of great folks on this trail, like 88-year old Norman who walks about five miles of it every day, and 80-year old Adeline, who is often seen hiking while on the phone busy transacting real estate deals.

There are many dedicated walkers in Colorado, and there are a few notable walkers whom we know well from the written historical record. From news clips and novels, a few stand out. My favorite is Grandma Gatewood. After raising her family on a remote, hardscrabble Ohio farm while burdened with an abusive husband, Emma Rowena Gatewood told her two children she was going for a walk. She wasn’t kidding. Her kids were old enough to take care of themselves, so Rowena hiked the 2,200-mile Appalachian Trail. The year was 1955, and she was 67 years old. She hiked the Appalachian Trail for the third time when she was 75. When she died at the age of 85, she left behind 11 children, 24 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. Rowena was a walker for the ages! She died humming the Battle Hymn of the Republic; her eyes had indeed seen the glory.

Another favorite, John Francis, walked for 22 years – in complete silence for 17 of them. As a young man in San Francisco, John witnessed the 1971 oil spill, at 800,000 gallons the largest in San Francisco Bay Area history. While driving home that day, John heard a radio announcer say that dependence on the automobile was a contributing factor to the environmental disaster. He told his mother that as a result of the oil spill, he had decided to give up driving and walk everywhere. Recognizing an opportunity, his mom responded, “Why not stop talking, too?” The rest is history. John walked to Portland where he earned an associate’s degree. Finally, he strolled all the way to the University of Wisconsin, where he earned his Ph.D. in Land Management. He spent seven years walking from the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic. Then he walked to Washington, D.C., where the U. S. Coast Guard hired him to develop legislation for the management of oil spills.

Colorado’s Inestine Roberts, the woman memorialized in the plaque at the top of Pikes Peak that begins this column, fell under the spell of that great mountain. Five feet tall and weighing less than 90 pounds, Inestine was a hike leader and member of the Colorado Mountain Club. She was a naturalist as well as a hiker and could identify over 200 different trees; like Grandma Gateway, she could survive on the plants she’d find on her walks, if necessary. On August 3, 1957, Inestine wrote an entry in the Barr Camp registry, halfway up Pikes Peak, “Will be 88 September 10, am hiking for the fourteenth time to the top of Pikes Peak.” She died that day at the tree line while descending the peak. In the words of Monte Wolford, winner of the first two Pikes Peak Marathons: “She died in the arms of the Mountain she loved.”

Scientists in Japan are doing the necessary work of measuring what’s actually happening to our cells and neurons when we walk. The Japanese take walking seriously as a therapeutic activity. Called shinrin-yoku, this government-backed therapy allows nature to enter the human body through all five senses. The government has funded about $4 million in “forest-bathing” research since 2004. The program features organized walks on 48 official Forest Therapy trails designated for shinrin-yoku by Japan’s Forestry Agency. The goal is to designate a total of 100 Forest Therapy sites within 10 years.

Take advantage of the opportunities you have to walk. Make a New Year’s resolution to do more walking, and you will have a happier and healthier year. May your life be one filled with good walks!

“Now shall I walk or shall I ride?

'Ride,' Pleasure said;

'Walk,' Joy replied.”

― W.H. Davies

Hymn to Old Age

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 06:40:39 GMT

Hymn to Old Age

In the fall of 1972, I moved to a small summer cabin deep in the northern Wisconsin forest, eight miles from the nearest town. The cabin had no electricity and no running water; when winter arrived, I had to thaw the hand pump in the backyard to get water. A 50-gallon drum buried in the yard served as my refrigerator.

While living this adventure, which seemed to be a logical next step for me, I pondered the meaning of life. For better or worse, my entire life up until that time had been an adventure. My mother died when I was three, and my four siblings and I were separated and placed in foster homes. From the age of three until my emancipation at age 18, I lived with eleven different families.

I left my last foster family after suffering an unnecessary and unwarranted beating. I got a job at a local fiberglass factory in Johnson Creek, Wis., to pay for a small apartment above the post office where I lived while I finished high school. I graduated and attended the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh for my freshman year, but I did not have the resources to return for my sophomore year. With no family or home to return to, I left for the great Northwoods, where, from the age of seven until age 12 I had spent some of the happiest years of my childhood living with a German-American family that was willing to take in me and all of my siblings.

In my small cabin, which had no insulation to ward off the severe cold of a northern Wisconsin winter, I lived very cheaply. Rent was one dollar a day. After the first month my landlord, sensing my financial straits, generously allowed me to live there for almost a full year rent-free. I had to travel 45 miles to obtain food stamps, but there was a bookmobile stop just six miles from the cabin. That is how I discovered the writings of Hermann Hesse.

Hesse won the Nobel Prize for literature in 1946. His last novel, The Glass Bead Game, written in 1943, was the first of his books I read that long, quiet, and wonderful winter. Next, I read Demian http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demian , published in 1919 under the pen name Emil Sinclair. Demian is the story of a young boy, raised in a wealthy family, whose entire existence can be summarized as a struggle between two worlds: the world of illusion (related to the Hindu http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindu concept of Maya

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maya_(illusion)) and the real world, the world of spiritual truth. That same winter I read three more of Hesse’s books: Siddhartha, Journey to the East, and Beneath the Wheel.

Hesse was a prodigious writer. In one essay, he reflects wryly on his lifelong failure to acquire a talent for idleness and speculated that his average daily correspondence exceeded 150 pages! His collected works comprise 20 volumes containing more than 14,000 pages, and his correspondence runs to about 35,000 letters. In addition, he painted more than 3,000 watercolors.

It was fortunate for both Hesse and the world that he lived to the ripe old age of 85. He was a friend of the great psychoanalyst Carl Jung, which may have helped him achieve great maturity as a human being, something that does not happen for many people. “People often become old, but rarely mature,” wrote French author Alphonse Daudet.

In a letter to a friend in 1930, when Hesse was still a young man of 58, he writes:

“Only when you grow old do you see the rarity of beauty, and what a wonder it really is when flowers bloom between factories and cannons, and poetry still lives between newspapers and stock market reports.”

From a letter to a friend a couple of years before his death, Hesse wrote,

“I would like to wish you strength and patience in the struggle with old age, in which one can also gain victory in defeat.” Again, from a letter to a friend: “The throes of death are also one of life’s processes, no less than birth, and often one can confuse the two.” And finally: “Anyone who has stepped upon the path of maturity can never lose again, but can only win. Until one day the time comes, and with one final beat of the heart escapes from the inadequate.”

We are especially blessed that in his later years Hesse wrote Hymn to Old Age, first published in German under the title Mit der Reife wird man immer junger (which translates into English as “With maturity/increasing maturity, one becomes ever younger”). It would be an understatement to say that Hermann Hesse loved nature. He took exquisite joy in observing it, feeling it, and exalting in its many moods and manifestations. He always felt young in it. At the beginning of this marvelous book, he writes:

For a single breath, I sense more profoundly than ever the transience of my form, and I feel drawn into transformation – to the stone, the earth, the raspberry bush, the tree root. My thirst is for signs of passing, for the earth, the water, and the withering of the leaves. Tomorrow, the day after, soon, soon I shall be you, I shall be leaves, I shall be earth, I shall be rooted, I shall write no more words on paper, I shall no longer carry the dentist’s bill in my pocket, I shall no longer be pestered by menacing officials demanding proof of citizenship, and so swim cloud in the blue, flow water in the brook, bud leaf on the bough, I have sunk into oblivion and into my thousand-times-longed-for transformation.

Hymn to Old Age is published by Pushkin Press, 71-75 Shelton Street, London WC2H 9JQ, Tel. +44 20 7470 8829. The direct quotes are reproduced with permission. There are many jewels of thought, poetry, and human warmth in this book. It’s worth buying and reading while sitting somewhere quiet in nature.

Robin Avery is a gerontologist and co-owner with his wife Cindy of The

Retreat at Church Ranch. He can be reached at retreatceorobin@gmail.com

Wisdom and Maturity

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 06:44:50 GMT

Wisdom and Maturity

In old age, the hard realities of life – childhood, teen angst, parenting, work, financial challenges – can transition into something calmer and softer, but no less real and valuable, the attainment of wisdom.

Wisdom is recognized, celebrated, and revered across all cultures. For many, if there is a purpose in achieving old age, attaining a state of wisdom is it.

What is wisdom? Amassed with age and experience, it is more than factual knowledge. Enriched by the lessons of past mistakes, wisdom guides decisions and actions. And wisdom is deep. In spiritual traditions, the word refers to an illuminating light, a transforming insight. Wisdom illuminates the unlit consciousness. It transforms individual consciousness into infinite consciousness.

To me, there are two sorts of wisdom: one relates to our physical world, and the other to the spiritual. Both outward and inward wisdom contain elements of faith and contemplation. The wise elder participates in both, counseling the powerful and informing policies, and mentoring, guiding, and teaching in personal and intimate ways. Wisdom requires both faith and thought. Not just religious faith, but faith that life holds purpose and meaning, that focus and effort spent on contemplating experience will bear fruit. Carl Jung writes, "Faith is a charisma not granted to all; instead man has the gift of thought, which can strive after the highest things.”

Growing up among farmers, ranchers, and lumberjacks, tough and practical folks all, it was evident to me that the loudest guys in the room—full of hard talk, strong opinion, quick judgment, cynical criticism, and strong condemnation—weren’t always the wisest. Others, the ones I came to regard as wise, spent more time in silence. 19th-century English cleric Charles Caleb Colton wrote, “Silence is foolish if we are wise, but wise if we are foolish,” which points to a more positive, active role for wise elders.

My readers know that my life brought unusual challenges. After my self-imposed year-long retreat in the woods of northern Wisconsin, I sought spiritual teachers to see for myself what was possible in the achievement of a full and mature life. I visited yoga ashrams in Pennsylvania, spiritual communities like Findhorn in Scotland, met shamans in Central America and visited the Self Realization Institute started in 1920 by Paramahansa Yogananda in Pacific Palisades, Calif. I attended countless seminars and discussions by spiritual teachers, including Alan Watts, the Episcopal priest, Zen academic, Harvard therapist, and student of Hindu guru Neem Karoli Baba (popularly known as Ram Dass) and, most recently, Colorado’s own Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi and the “Age-ing to Sage-ing” group. Meeting and speaking with these searchers and sages, I’ve learned that wisdom always displays a certain equanimity.

As a solid rock is not shaken by the wind,

so the wise are not shaken by blame and praise.

As a deep lake is clear and calm,

so the wise become tranquil after they listened to the truth.

- Buddha

Sages, those among us who have achieved a degree of wisdom and maturity that deserves our recognition and respect, share character traits in addition to equanimity. In my experience, because sages have a charismatic presence because they are truly present in the moment and not distracted by or lost in thought. Wisdom and maturity bestow an ability to see things as they truly are, without illusion. This trait brings fearless honesty, along with an ability to skillfully deliver the truth. Recognizing our shared humanity, the sage is a loving and compassionate presence. Because of spiritual depth, humility, and calm, the sage is an excellent listener, able to cut through the clutter to the heart of the matter. In the presence of wise ones, I have found happiness, a joy which I relate to the profound and personal recognition of the gift of life and the interconnectedness of all. Wisdom is found in that space between observation and reaction. Wisdom knows the ultimate nature of reality. Wisdom is the joy and bliss that recognizes the worthlessness of self-preoccupation and leads to a profound sense of freedom in the release of concerns for the self.

Dwelling on wisdom over the last couple of months, I was blessed with a vision of my older, wiser self. Unfortunately, I was driving when it occurred! My wife Cindy wasn’t very happy, as it was quite a distraction. It was my older and wiser self looking back at me. I saw someone more vital, tanned and weathered, joyful, with a twinkle in the eyes. The face was leaner, the hair thinning and grey, but overall the countenance was peaceful and loving. I invite my readers to meet the sage within—but if you’re driving when you do, pull over!

Like snowflakes, no two paths to wisdom are alike. We are all called to it as we grow and mature during our lives. Friends and family members who spoke to me about wisdom as I wrote this column helped me frame it this way: in your 40s, a sense of wholeness and wisdom is hinted at; this sense grows in the 50s and picks up pace in the 60s and 70s; and finally, in the 80s, 90s, and 100s, ripens into the full bloom of wisdom. There should be more forums for the appreciation of wisdom. I invite all of us to recognize, benefit from and acknowledge the sages among us—most especially the sage within you.

Robin Avery is a co-owner with his wife Cindy of The Retreat at Church Ranch and a Gerontologist. Robin can be reached at retreatceorobin@gmail.com

Announcing The New Website

Sat, 12 Jun 2021 06:48:10 GMT

Announcing The New Website

We are delighted to announce the launch of our new website!

Our new website provides our existing and prospective clients a simple yet interactive view of our work and the services we offer. Stay tuned to our blog for new ideas! Sign up here so you never miss an update.

For any enquiries and feedback, please write to us at info@theretreatatchurchranch.com or call us at (303) 469-7178.

New Website Under Construction

Thu, 20 May 2021 06:50:39 GMT

New Website Under Construction

New Website Coming Soon!

We are currently revamping our website. Our new website will be interactive and mobile friendly!

Teach Me about Heaven and Hell

Wed, 19 May 2021 06:52:40 GMT

Teach Me about Heaven and Hell

A Samurai warrior came upon an aged Zen monk and went up to him, demanding, "Teach me about heaven and hell."

The monk looked up at the warrior and said simply, "I can teach you nothing. You are ignorant and incapable of learning."

At this reply the warrior was enraged. Furious with anger, he pulled out his sword, holding it up and prepared to cut off the monk's head.

The monk simply looked up at him and said, "That is hell."

At this point, the warrior understood that the aged monk had risked his life to answer his question, and he dropped his sword and fell down in tears of gratitude at the monk's feet.

"And that" said the monk, "is heaven."

Dying Doesn’t Feel Like What I’m Doing

Tue, 18 May 2021 06:57:08 GMT

Dying Doesn’t Feel Like What I’m Doing

That’s the title of a film about the last year of the life of beloved Rabbi Rachel Cowan. Author Sara Davidson has comments inspired by it:

“Birth and death. Little lights coming on and great ones flickering out. A stream of arrivals and departures has made me feel, acutely, the brevity of time I may have left. A month ago, I learned of the death of the man I’ve loved most deeply in my life. I’ve also lost important people in my field, writers I looked up to or was mentored by: John Dunne, Nora Ephron, Tom Wolfe, Philip Roth.

I’ve been pondering, how best to move through the time that remains? How can this stage of life be meaningful and expansive, as we’re continually required to let go: of friends; activities we used to do with ease; sharp eyesight, hearing, and memory?”

From Sara Davidson’s blog “Life at This Age” at: https://bit.ly/3hWXuu0

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45540&F=H

For an excerpt of the film about Rabbi’s Cowan’s last year, “Dying Doesn’t Feel Like What I’m Doing,” see: https://www.facebook.com/DyingDoesntFeelLikeWhatImDoing/

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45541&F=H

The Old Fool

Mon, 17 May 2021 06:59:28 GMT

The Old Fool

“I believe old age should play a useless role in society-- the role of the fool and thus warrant a unique freedom. Therefore, any social welfare system for the old is a great blessing. It permits them to turn to their true selves. No longer forced to make a living they can enjoy the freedom of fools. They can live outside economic restrictions and simply ‘waste their time…’

Foolishness may in the end lead to psychological liberation. In youth and adulthood we must struggle to adjust socially and become successful… The old fool is no sad idiot but a free person. Young people strive for freedom by escaping to the country and becoming farmers or by wandering the world. Old people achieve this freedom in their foolishness… Old fools may laugh and cry as they wish… The image of the old fool takes the horror away from the deficit model of aging. Growing old becomes rewarding again. In old age, we can rid ourselves of our power, but also of our responsibility.”

From* The Old Fool and the Corruption of Myth*, by Adolf Guggenbuhl-Craig (Spring Publications, 1991)

Positive Aging and Shadow

Sun, 16 May 2021 07:02:25 GMT

Positive Aging and Shadow

Over a period of years, I helped put together 9 national conferences on “Positive Aging.” It gives me some satisfaction that, despite our orientation toward what can illuminate later life, we also made sure that these events included attention to issues such as end-of-life care, dementia, and other elements that are, too often, seen only as part of the “Shadow of Age.” The following article makes a valuable contribution in paying attention to the Shadow:

“Aiding Her Dying Husband, a Geriatrician Learns the Emotional and Physical Toll of Caregiving” at: https://bit.ly/2TjcVSZ https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45545&F=H

The Shadow was well understood by Rumi:

“However much I fled, my shadow did not leave me; shadow must be in charge of me, even though I become as the thread of a hair.

Only the sun has the power to drive away shadows, the sun increases and diminishes them; seek this from the sun.

Though for two thousand years you are running in the back of the shadow, in the end you will see that you are behind and the shadow before.”

(*Mystical Poems of Rumi*, by A.J. Arberry)

Say “Yes” to positive aging, but not at the expense of Shadow: “One does not become enlightened by imagining figures of light, but by making the darkness conscious.” (Carl Jung)

A Crack in the Frozen World

Sat, 15 May 2021 07:04:24 GMT

A Crack in the Frozen World

"The world, I've come to think is like the surface of a frozen lake. We walk along, we slip, we try to keep our balance and not to fall. One day there is a crack, and so we learn that underneath us is an unimaginable depth."

-James Joyce, "The Dead

Web Sites to See

Fri, 14 May 2021 07:12:56 GMT

Web Sites to See

GENERATIVITY. “Leaving A Legacy: Values and Lessons for The Later Stages of Life” by Jed Diamond, at: https://goodmenproject.com/health/leaving-a-legacy-values-and-lessons-for-the-later-stages-of-life/

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45546&F=H

THE BEST IS YET TO COME. “Why Science Says Your Best Years Are Yet To Come” at: https://bit.ly/3wD4P61

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45548&F=H

OLD IS BEAUTIFUL. Visit the “Not-Just-Less Horrible” blog, at: https://atribecalledaging.com

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45549&F=H

Books about Wisdom

Thu, 13 May 2021 07:17:21 GMT

Books about Wisdom

No, you won’t get wisdom from books and not even from the “Human Values in Aging” newsletter. But here are some good sources to consult:

WISER: The Scientific Roots of Wisdom, Compassion, and What Makes Us Good, by Dilip Jeste and Scott LaFee (Sounds True, 2020).

ORDINARY WISDOM:* Biographical Aging and the Journey of Life, by WilliamRandall and Gary Kenyon (Univ. of New Brunswick, 2001)

EMBRACING WISDOM: Soaring in the Second Half of Life, by Malka Drucker and Nadya Gross (Lulu, 2019). For more, visit: https://embracingwisdom.net/

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45550&F=H

AGING WITH WISDOM: Reflections, Stories and Teachings, by Olivia Ames Hoblitzelle (Monkfish, 2017).

OUR WISDOM YEARS: Growing Older with Joy, Fulfillment, Resilience, and No Regrets, by Charles A. Garfield (Central Recovery Press, 2020)

See also the site “Evidence Based Wisdom for more on the science of wisdom-based research,” by Monika Ardelt at: https://bit.ly/3fP7Ppb https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45552&F=H and

http://www.wisdompage.com/Ardelt01.html

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45553&F=H

See also “Is Wisdom Related to Age?” https://bit.ly/3oXH9Xi

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45555&F=H

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45556&F=H

Coming Events

Wed, 12 May 2021 07:33:11 GMT

Coming Events

*CAUTION ON EVENTS: *In this time of pandemic, many previously scheduled events have been cancelled or postponed, so it is important to check in advance. Events in digital format may be held as scheduled, but checking is advisable.

MIDLIFE:* “Navigating Midlife Transitions” (starting June 5, 2021) The Modern Elder Academy offers this on-line program. For details visit: https://online.modernelderacademy.com/ https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45557&F=H

*ENVIRONMENT *Elders for Regenerative Living (June 6, 2021, 9-10:30 am, Pacific)

“Rewilding the World, Rewilding Ourselves” sponsored by Elders Action Network, Details at: https://bit.ly/2RSL3ov

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45559&F=H

HOME: "Finding Your Way to Home: Options, Choices, and Constraints" (June 7, 2021, 12 to 1:30 pm, ET). Steven Golant and other leading researchers are presenting. Sponsored by Pass It On Network. Details at: https://bit.ly/3bWf4dG

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45561&F=H

CLIMATE: Climate Tea & Talk (June 8, 2021, 3:00 pm PT). Elders Climate Action. Make a cup of tea and connect for an “elder hour” of casual discussion about the climate emergency and how elders are getting involved. We can make new friends across the country and learn ways to engage from each other. Details at: https://www.eldersclimateaction.org/events

THE HEART OF WISDOM (June 10, 2021, 2-3 pm, ET). This interactive program is focused on aging with purpose and is sponsored by Sage-ing International. Special introductory session for the multi-event program at no cost. For details visit: https://conta.cc/3fM2nDE

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45563&F=H

SECOND ACT STORIES: "Meet Arnie & the Band Grandpas" (June 10, 2021, 1-2 pm ET). Second Acts host Andy Levine in conversation with Arnie Rosen, retired physician who created an intergenerational second act. Sponsored by Encore Boston Network. For details and registration visit: https://bit.ly/3whSyEE

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45564&F=H.

*WISDOM OF ELDERHOOD *(June 11, 2021) 12:30 – 2 pm (Mountain time). Small group writing experience for women over 65. For details visit: https://bit.ly/3hYDE1I

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45578&F=H

THEATER: “Hunker Down” play (June 13, 2021, 1 pm MT). Streaming of play by Robert F. Benjamin, a romantic comedy about older, single adults grappling with isolation during COVID times. Sponsored by Sage-ing International. Details at: https://conta.cc/33eBNNi

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45567&F=H

*BUDDHISM: *“Buddhism for Boomers” (June 15, 2021, 11 am to 12:30 ET). Webinar with David Chernikoff, sponsored by Sage-ing International. Details at: https://conta.cc/2Pn9WaB

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45568&F=H

*GENERATIONS UNITED: *Annual Conference (June 15-17, 2021). Virtual conference. Details at: https://bit.ly/3p371kL

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45577&F=H

DEMENTIA: “Envisioning the Future: Dementia Care 2021 & Beyond” (June 16, 2021). Sponsored by the Pioneer Network. For details visit: http://www.pioneernetwork.net/envisioning-the-future/

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45571&F=H

LEGACY: Legacy Writing Workshop (June 19, 2021 and Aug. 10, 2021). Workshop with Rachael Freed on writing “Legacy Letters.” Details and registration at: https://conta.cc/2MCyyL3

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45572&F=H

GETTING GOOD AT GETTING OLDER (June 22, 2021, 12 noon EDT). This 4th Tuesday Revolutionize Your Retirement Series features Rabbi Laura Geller. Innovator, social activist and the fourth woman ordained as a rabbi in the US. She will focus on her book (written with her late husband, Richard Siegel,) Getting Good at Getting Older. Sign-up begins June 15 at www.revolutionizeretirement.com https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45581&F=H. All participants receive a recording link after the call. Direct questions to Dori Mintzer

dorian@dorianmintzer.com

*SPIRITUALITY: *“Ageing and Spirituality Conference” (June 8 through June 23, 2021). Elizabeth MacKinlay, Gary Irwin-Kenyon, Rabbi Dayle Friedman, Susan McFadden and others. Details at: https://uwaterloo.ca/ageing-spirituality/agenda

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45573&F=H

*MYTHS: *“What’s Age Got to Do with It? Busting the Myths About Getting Older” (June 23, 2021, 2-3:30 p.m. Pacific Time) Jeanette Leardi with AARP Oregon. Details at: https://aarp.cvent.com/AgingWellJune2021

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45574&F=H

*EMPLOYMENT: *"Get to Know Age-Friendly Employers" (June 23, 2021, 10-11:30 am ET). Learn from four employers why they hire workers over 50, what kinds of jobs they are filling and how the hiring process works. Sponsored by Encore Boston Network, AARP Massachusetts and RetirementJobs.com. Details and registration at https://bit.ly/2SomWxO.

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45579&F=H

“IKIGAI: Japan's Secret to Aging” (June 24, 2021, 11 am to 1 pm, PT). Workshop facilitated by Georgeanna Tryban, MSW, PhD, CSL, who has been connected to Japan for 45 years, since she was an exchange student at 18. Sponsored by Sage-ing International. Details at: https://conta.cc/2Odv7ve

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45576&F=H

*CIRCLE TALK: *Virtual Training (Starting June 29, 2021). Four week training in creative group method for overcoming social isolation. For details visit: www.CircleTalk.org

https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45582&F=H

To Love What Is Mortal

Tue, 11 May 2021 07:35:26 GMT

To Love What Is Mortal

“To live in this world you must be able to do three things: to love what is mortal; to hold it against your bones knowing your own life depends on it; and, when the time comes to let it go, to let it go.”

-Mary Oliver

This electronic newsletter, edited by Harry (Rick) Moody, is published by the Creative Longevity and Wisdom Program of Fielding Graduate University The Newsletter contains items of interest about humanistic gerontology; it does not publish original writing but is limited to brief and timely announcements. To submit items of interest or request subscription changes, contact: rmoody@fielding.edu

You can unsubscribe from this list https://mailer.luxsci.com/link.php?M=20220674&N=15532&L=45583&F=H.