When Dan and his wife, Erin* realized they needed to consider supervised care for his father, Gene who was showing signs of memory loss and reduced mobility, they weren’t sure where to begin. Searching online, they found plenty of options for older adult living within a 2-hour drive of their home. But they were overwhelmed by the information. In particular, they didn’t objectively understand the difference between nursing home care and assisted living care.

Though not a widely researched topic, surveys have shown that Dan and Erin are not alone in their confusion: Whether as a matter of marketing or geographic preference, different names are often used to describe types of residential care for older adults. For example, nursing homes may also referred to as long term care facilities, skilled nursing facility, or homes for the aged. 

In reality, there are two broad categories of care settings for older adults: 

• nursing homes 
• assisted living communities

Understanding the differences between a nursing home and an assisted living community can make the process of choosing elder care less stressful and more reassuring for your family.

What type of care is provided at a Nursing Home?

Nursing homes are legally permitted to provide extensive, 24-7 nursing and medical care under the supervision of a practicing physician and medical specialists. This care is somewhat similar to (but more extensive than) hospital care and can include:

• near-constant monitoring of individuals who have significant physical and/or cognitive impairment and serious medical conditions
• round-the-clock nursing care
• assistance with personal hygiene, toileting, dressing, cleanliness of room 
• various types of physical rehabilitation / therapy (speech, hearing, cognitive)
• social-emotional therapeutic services
• meals are provided according to the medical needs of each patient, similar to a hospital stay
• visitation hours are not open-ended but are similar to hospital visiting hours
• recreational and social programs are limited and may not be provided at all depending on a person’s health condition(s)

Importantly, families need to understand that nursing home care is a custodial arrangement in which the medical staff are the custodians of care for the older adult. In a custodial arrangement, the room to which your loved one is assigned is not their private, personal space. Medical staff and other personnel may enter the room at any time of the day or night.

The length of an individual’s stay at a nursing home can be a short-term (several weeks) or long-term (months or years). Some individuals may transfer into and out of nursing home care based on reoccurrence of medical symptoms/complications that cannot be sustained in hospital care.

What type of care is provided at an Assisted Living Community?

An assisted living community describes older adult care found on a continuum and often referred to as Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC). These communities are licensed to offer different levels of healthcare and wellness care to support the quality of living for older adults as their needs change over time, including physical, medical, social and emotional, and spiritual needs. 

Older adults who reside within an assisted living community are considered independent to the extent that they are capable of participating in and, at the least, partially managing their basic daily living needs within their private living quarters. The extent of assistance needed is a determining factor in cost to reside at an assisted living community. 

Assisted Living Communities provide a wide array of services based on iwhat is needed by a resident. Services can include:

• Meals provided and/or restaurants on site
• Recreational areas indoors and out
• Entertainment and enrichment programs
• Concierge services
• Shared common areas for activities
• 24-hour medical staff accessible to all residents regardless of level of independence
• Personal hygiene assistance (dressing, bathing)
• Medication reminders
• Housekeeping
• Laundry 
• Transportation 
• Security 

Assisted living communities focus on preserving an older adult’s well-being and uphold a resident’s right to personal privacy, autonomy, and dignity while promoting community and family involvement.

Assisted living centers do not employ a custodial arrangement. Rather, the older adult’s living space (usually an apartment style set-up) is considered a private residence. As such, an older adult enters the community as an active and independent resident who needs minimal assistance, but should their health decline in a way that prevents truly independent living, the community provides a transition to stepped-up care. This can include receiving help with daily living activities, physical rehabilitation and adaptations in their same living space – or transitioning to more medically intensive long-term care services such as Memory Care or skilled nursing (with appropriate permits as required by law).

In the broadest sense, nursing homes focus strictly on medical care – from short-term rehab to long-term ongoing medical care. Assisted living is focused on supporting the evolving health and wellness needs of older adult residents for the duration of their “golden years”.

How do I know if my aging parent needs placement in assisted living or a nursing home?

Foremost, the type of care an aging parent needs will be determined by their medical needs, as indicated by their healthcare provider. Additionally, the extent to which they require help managing their health and personal business, is a significant factor in deciding type of care for an aging family member: 

• What is the extent of their physical or cognitive impairment? Is it short or long-term?
• Can they manage their medication regiment on their own? 
• What is their medical prognosis?
• If their condition is likely to worsen over time, which means the care they need now will change in months or years, can you step in to help? 
• Will the facility they start out at be able to provide care for changing needs or will you need to relocate them to a different type of facility?

Choosing the Right Care for an Aging Parent

Ultimately, Dan and Erin had many conversations with Gene’s physicians to understand Gene’s functional limitations now and would things would likely be in the months and years ahead, with his failing memory a top concern. They also used an eldercare mediator to help explain to Gene the reasons why he could not remain at home alone. Together, they toured several assisted living communities with a preference for those with social programs and wellness activities that aligned with Gene’s friendly nature, but most importantly with progressive stages of memory care and on-site physical therapy for when his medical conditions further decline.

Even an older adult who is mostly independent in their self-care, today, will encounter times when their healthcare needs become too extensive for living on their own. You may want to choose an older adult community like Everbrook Senior Living, which provides transitional care to support your loved one as their health and wellbeing changes over time. 

Resources

Connecticut Assisted Living Association Resource Guide

How to Choose Assisted Living or Nursing Home

National Institutes of Health: Residential Facilities, Assisted Living, and Nursing Homes 

Helpful Guidance for Managing Older Adult Long-Term Care

Eldercare Locator
Ph: 800-677-1116
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

You can also call or search online for your local Area Agency on Aging or Department of Human Services.

*Names changed to protect identity

When you come to visit Dad at an Everbrook Senior Living Community, you’ll be near activities perfect for celebrating Father’s Day with every generation – dad, sons, and grandsons alike! We’ve compiled a short list of things to do to celebrate with the special men in your life.

Find Adventure near Cedarbrook Village – Ware, MA

Combine a family picnic with the thrills and chills of a day at Six Flags New England! Located amid the mountains of Western, MA, Six Flags is a family destination with something for the youngest grandkids to dear ole’ pop! Scenic picnic grounds provide shade, while water rides offer a cool respite from walking the park and taking on the coasters. Six Flags is also well known for fabulous shows featuring aspiring actors, singers, and dancers – and wildlife, too!  If you want something with a little more splash, reserve your spot at Great Wolf Lodge indoor water resort. You can enjoy these parks as a daytrip, returning to Cedarbrook Village by nightfall, or make it an overnight by staying at one of the nearby hotels, B&B, lodges or retreat centers. Whatever you decide, Dad is sure to enjoy the quality time with the fam the shopping, museums, and dining to suit every taste in the surrounding villages of Lenox, MA. 

Links, Lakes, and Berries near Colebrook Village – Hebron, CT

Dads and family can enjoy golfing, boating, and berry picking in various spots near Colebrook Village, Hebron, CT. The Flour Girl Café is the spot to stop for breakfast and fresh brewed, before heading out to the fairway, waterfront, or trailways. Dad and the fam can fish, canoe, or hike at Salmon River State Park or Gay City State Park. Breakfast and berry picking is a great a option with three nearby farms, including Rose’s Berry Farm, Pesce Farm, and Bastiani Blueberry Farm. Want to stay indoors but still have a little adventure with dear ole’ dad, venture a little further south to the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat. 

Trails, a Spa Day, and Museum Hopping near Elmbrook Village – Bozrah, CT

Dad and the fam can spend the day hiking and/or fishing on Gardner Lake at Hopmead State Park or enjoy a picnic at Yantic Falls. If you can venture a short drive south for dining—and perhaps a spa day—schedule in at advance with the Norwich Inn and Spa. For the history buff, Dad will enjoy Slater Memorial Museum, Tantaquidgeon Museum, Mashantucket Pequot Museum, or the Blue Slope Country Museum. If Dad happens to be a card shark, you have a few casinos in the area to choose from: Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods Resort and Casino both feature dining and shows. This is not kid-friendly, but there is a Great Wolf Lodge in nearby Mashantucket, CT. 

Take Flight near Stonebrook Village – Windsor Locks, CT

You’ll find outdoor activities throughout the area surrounding Stonebrook Village (e.g., Windsor Locks State Canal), but the real pride of Windsor Locks isn’t found on the trail or water. It’s the New England Air Museum where dad and the fam can sit inside historic warbirds and modern jets, learn about aviation history, and take off in flight simulators. Several special events are held throughout the year. For Father’s Day, don’t miss Open Cockpit Day with special activities and live music!

Castles, Gardens & the Sea near Islebrook Village – Wiscasset, ME

There’s more than meets the eye outside the grounds of Islebrook Village in Maine. You’ll want to plan ahead for your Father’s Day outing in this area. Within a short drive you’ll find historic sites such as Castle Tucker, once owned by a 19th century sea captain or the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse and Learning Center (c. 1827). In Boothbay Harbor, be sure to bring your camera when you visit the Coastal Maine Botanical Garden and the Railway Village. After sightseeing on land (or if you prefer by boat – there are several charters for tours as well as whale watching in the area), be sure to dine on the wharf at McSeagull's Restaurant, famous for their classic lobster roll or for an upscale seafood experience with harbor views, make a reservation at Coastal Prime. 

Revitalize with Dad in the Mountains or Vineyards Near Hillsbrook Village – Allenstown, NH

The quintessence of small-town New England life, the village of Allenstown makes for a wonderful respite for Father’s Day for the family. Just about any weekend during the summer months, you’ll find a craft fair or local festival to enjoy, including the annual, magical fairy festival in June. For the history buff, bring Dad to the Civilian Conservation Corps Museum or the Old Meetinghouse. If antiquing is Dad’s hobby, there’s treasure to be found at local shops and tag sales alike. If the family loves the outdoors, Bearbrook State Park is resplendent with trails for mountain biking, hiking, and horseback riding. Boat rentals are available at nearby Beaver or Catamount Pond where Dad and the grandkids can fish. There’s also an archery range for all ages.

Something for Everyone When Visiting a Loved One at an Everbrook Senior Living community

There’s something for every dad and grandad within reach of an Everbrook Senior Living Community. So come visit, perhaps starting your visit enjoying activities on property before taking dad out with the family.

For more information about Father’s Day activities at and nearby your loved ones Everbrook Senior Living Community, check out the municipal website pages for each town, or get in touch with us.

​Navigating important healthcare, financial, and end-of-life planning with an aging family member can be a difficult and heartbreaking process. Even as you’re trying to safeguard your loved one’s dignity, privacy, and independence, the emotional weight of the situation can sometimes lead to contentious interaction between an elderly parent and their adult children. Should you recognize the bond between family members becoming strained—and better still, to prevent even getting to that point—consider working with an eldercare mediator to guide your family through decision making with an aging family member.

What is an eldercare mediator?

An eldercare mediator is a trained professional who acts as a confidential resource and impartial facilitator for families as they navigate aging-related healthcare, lifestyle, and financial decisions. Unlike a judge or arbitrator, eldercare mediators do not make decisions for you or your loved one; instead, they family members navigate options and reach agreement on the best path forward for their loved one’s care. Eldercare mediators also focus on preserving the bond between family members. 

What roles does an eldercare mediator have when working with families?

• Mediators Act as Neutral Party: They do not take sides or advocate for one specific family member.
• Mediators Build a Communication Bridge: They help lower the emotional "temperature" so everyone can be heard.
• Mediators Focus on Problem Solving: They assist families in finding practical, mutually agreeable solutions.
• Mediators Empower Family Members: They often ensure the senior's own voice and wishes are central to the discussion. 

What are the benefits of using an eldercare mediator?

• Privacy:  Mediation sessions are confidential, unlike public court proceedings.
• Cost-Effective: Mediation is often much less expensive than hiring separate attorneys for a legal battle.
• Efficiency: Issues brought to mediation can often be resolved in a few weekly sessions rather than months in legal proceedings.
• Relationship Preservation: Mediators focus on collaboration, which helps keep the family intact. 

What types of decisions can an eldercare mediator assist with?

Families often turn to a mediator when they are at an impasse regarding: 

• Living Situations: Mediators identify the benefits and drawbacks pertaining to whether or not (and if it is feasible for) an aging family member should move to assisted living or stay at home.
• Caregiver Roles and Obligations: Mediators allocate daily care duties among adult siblings in consideration of all relevant factors.
• Financial Decisions: Mediators manage the elder's assets, resources for paying for care, and can address inheritance disputes.
• Safety Concerns: Mediators examine the variable impacting an elder’s ability to safely live independently including sensitive topics such as living alone, driving, and self-care.
• Legal & Medical Options: Mediators help determine the individuals who can best serve as a medical proxy or financial power of attorney. 

What type of training do eldercare mediators have?

Many eldercare mediators have backgrounds law (some may have been or are attorneys), social workers, or geriatric care managers who have taken specialized conflict resolution training. 

How do I find an eldercare mediator?

A good place to start is the Academy of Professional Family Mediators and the National Care Planning Council.

Everbrook Senior Living: Supporting Families with Aging-Related Care Options

At the heart of the work we do for the families we serve is compassionate understanding for the challenges inherent in choosing aging-related care for a loved one. The Everbrook communities are intentionally designed to address the needs of older adults from the active Golden Years through assisted living and memory care. Our exceptional staff can help facilitate honest conversations between family members faced with making decisions about care for aging parents. Our first and utmost concern is that all involved have a voice in finding the best fit for their loved one’s social-emotional, spiritual, medical, and financial needs.

Contact us to learn more about how we can assist with the conversation and decision making between aging parents and adult children. 

Additional Resources:

Eldercare Mediation

AARP’s Guide to Choosing an Eldercare Mediator

Legal Guidance for Eldercare Mediation Services and Resolving Family Conflicts

We all know that our health changes as we age, often taking us by surprise. It’s important for older adults to be informed about health conditions that can impair their ability to drive safely. In particular, health conditions that affect attention, cognition, vision, and mobility can have serious and lasting effects on driving ability.

Which health conditions commonly affect driving ability for older adults?

• ADHD
• Cognitive change or impairment
• Chronic Pain
• Stroke
• Sleep Disorders
• Vision disorders

ADHD, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is characterized by a variety of symptoms and is commonly underdiagnosed in older adults, many of whom were able to make it through life by using adaptive skills to mask or make-up for the symptoms. When combined with the effects aging has on attention, memory, and emotional regulation, ADHD in older adults can lead trouble with safe operation of vehicle and increase risk for traffic accidents. It’s important to have a proper diagnosis so that symptoms of ADHD are not mistaken for other cognitive impairments, and vice versa. With appropriate diagnosis and treatment, older adults who do have ADHD can maintain their driving privilege, safely, for many years.

Cognitive changes are a natural part of the aging process. Changes such as memory deficits, reduced information processing speed, and slower reaction time impair an older adult’s ability to safely operate a vehicle and drive assertively.  If an older adult continues to drive with even mild impairment, or as dementia progresses to include disorientation and loss of perspective for judging speed and distance, driving becomes dangerous for them and for other drivers on the road. The best approach is to have early conversations with an older adult about their health and the consequences of driving when health impairs their safety behind the wheel.

Chronic pain, including conditions such as arthritis, can restrict an older adult’s mobility. At a minimum, health conditions that cause chronic pain can make driving uncomfortable, distracting a driver’s attention from the road. Chronic pain can also limit mobility, affecting reaction time between seeing a hazard and being able to either brake or maneuver a car out of harm’s way.

A physical therapist can offer suggestions for making driving more comfortable and determine if adaptive equipment is required to help an older adult drive more alert, more comfortably, and safer. An occupational therapist can go on a "test-drive" with an older adult to determine their ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.

Stroke is one health condition that can result in changes to cognition, memory, vision, speech, judgment and physical coordination. Consequently, stroke can limit or eliminate a person’s ability to drive. A physician will determine if an older adult can continue to drive in order to ensure their safety and that of others on the road. If cleared to return to driving, an older adult who has experienced a stroke may need to use adaptive equipment or take a driver retraining course.

Vision changes are often the first and most noticeable health issues that come with older age: needing reading glasses, changes in night vision, and sensitivity to bright light among others. Vision-related medical conditions that are common with age include cataracts (which cloud the lens); age-related macular degeneration (affects central vision); and glaucoma (affects peripheral vision). These conditions can impair a driver’s ability to see clearly, judge distance, detect and react to hazards, and read road signs. Fortunately, noticing and addressing these changes in vision early on, with proper medical attention, allows sufficient time for vision correction and that means older adults to maintain their ability to enjoy driving and do so safely.

Health and Wellness is a Priority at Everbrook Senior Living

Maintaining good health as one ages is essential to older adult quality of life, which includes the freedom that comes with driving a car. At Everbrook Senior Living, each of our residential communities offers state-of-the-art medical and wellness services. Our residents enjoy a wide array of lifestyle activities that support quality of living and preventative medical care to spot health problems early on. To learn more about how affordable luxury residences for older adults, please contact one of our Care Counselors, today. 

Helping older adults declutter requires a patient, respectful approach that honors the memory and meaning held in their personal possessions. 

It can be incredibly difficult to get an older adult family member to let go of the “stuff” that has collected in their living space. They may view your attempts to help them clean up as an intrusion of their privacy, leading to feelings of anger, sadness, and fear of losing a vital part of their personal history, and even their autonomy. Helping an older family member declutter their living space requires a gentle, respectful, and slow-paced approach that makes them feel like a partner in the process.

Cluttered Living Spaces: A Hazzard for Older Adults

Excessive clutter in an older adult’s home present both safety and health hazards. When their “stuff” collects on stairways, blocks windows and doors, and overwhelms living areas, a beloved older family member is at risk for accidents. Rusted objects cause serious cuts if not handled carefully. Illness causing irritants such as dust, insects, or rodents can lurk among piles of old paper, boxes, and clothing. 

Tips for Helping an Older Adult Get Rid of Junk

Before you begin to move things around or to remove stuff from your beloved older family member’s living space, check your mindset. Remember that where you see junk, they see memories—and they are connected to these objects or what the objects represent in ways that are deeply emotional and even physical. 

Start the declutter process with a conversation about what needs to be done and why. Focus on areas in the home where there is a safety or health hazard, such as blocked exits that would make it hard to get out in the event of a fire or an area where there is a risk for falling. Also, consider your family member’s health status:  mobility, hygiene, medications they take and let those needs inform how you proceed with the decluttering process.

• Show Empathy: Acknowledge that belongings have deep sentimental value. Avoid harsh terms like "trash" or "junk".
• Focus on Safety: Frame the process around removing tripping hazards to improve mobility and safety.
• Take it Slow: Don’t try to tackle the whole house or even a room at one time. Regular, short sessions can help prevent physical and emotional exhaustion—for both of you.

“You know, Dad, these piles of paper you have here by the stove, these could catch fire easily. Let’s go through them to see what is important here and move those items to a safer location. This way we can make sure you haven’t missed any bills or important news.”

“Mom, I know these old photos and memorabilia are very important to you. The boxes are blocking windows and part of this door. Let’s sort through them and make the space less cluttered so it's safer for you in the event of an emergency. Plus, I’d really love to see this history with you.” 

• Prioritize Function: Ask  your family member how they are using the items or what the items mean to them. Do they use the items daily or weekly or monthly? When was the last time they used an item (if they can remember)
• Ask for Input: Involve them in every decision to ensure they feel in control. 

“Mom and Dad, I’ve created 3 categories for items:  Keep/Preserve, Donate, Discard. Your input is important. We’ll go through one thing at a time. If there’s value to something that I am not easily familiar with, please tell me the story behind it. What we don’t have the room for here, at your house, we’ll find a safe place for, but we have to be selective so that we can make the space safe and healthy for you.”

• Preserve What is Essential: Explain that old photos can be scanned to different media formats, such as made into a slide show or video montage; important documents can be digitized or consider things that can be put into a picture frame and visible for them to see on a regular basis. There are many resources for preservation to be found online or even a local business. Look for services such as photo/document restoration, preservation of memorabilia, and photo/video archiving.

When Clutter Becomes Hoarding in an Older Adult’s Home

You might start the decluttering process only to discover the task is beyond yoru capabilities for one of two reasons: 

1. Your family member resists all attempts to clean house and continuing will just strain your relationship.
2. Safety or health hazards (insects, mold, rodent droppings) exist that you are not equipped to handle.

In the first scenario, you will want to hire a service that specializes in working with older adults. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging for suggestions. Also look for companies like Silver Solutions to see if they run services in your area. Some professional organizing companies will also have a special team for older adult decluttering services.

The second scenario requires intervention to deal with the hoarding and the hazards presented in your situation. What you see on the surface may just be the tip of the ice burg. Hoarding can cover structural issues in a living space including electrical and plumbing hazards. 

Is it time for Assisted Living Care?

As you move through the cleaning-up and cleaning-out process with your older family member, you might wonder if it is time for assisted living care. If the health and safety risk factors are significant, then the answer to the question is likely “yes.” 

At Everbrook Senior Living, our exceptional living spaces provide a safe, “feels-like-home” environment where your loved one will be cared for like a member of our own family. We monitor living spaces for health and safety consideration along with any special medical and well-being needs that your loved one may require. Contact our compassionate care advocates, today, to schedule a visit to one of our many properties located throughout New England.

Each glance in the mirror shows us that we are getting older. We can feel it in our bones, in our energy levels, and in witnessing of our own parents aging and, in many cases, losing their vitality. This stage of life can be challenging, that’s for sure. There are many difficult conversations to have around healthcare, finances, and end-of-life planning.

It is all too easy for fear, grief, and even resentment to creep into the space between family members. But there’s another way to approach this delicate stage—one that allows this unique time in life to be shared with reverence, gratitude, and grace between adult children and their aging parents.

The tips below will help you plan a path forward with loving intention, courage, and clarity as the time to make critical decisions nears.

Embrace Blessings, Find Peace. The challenges inherent with interacting with our aging parents can be balanced with unexpected blessings if we focus on finding peace. It’s hard work to rise to this challenge, but well worth the effort. You have the opportunity to discover one another anew by taking the perspective of understanding the life choices your parents made through the lens of your own adult life. This change in stance also invites your aging parent into a different way of seeing your choices and relating with you—one that comes from a new shared perspective. If needed, seek out an eldercare mediator, professional counselor, or support group that specializes in strengthening the bond between adult children and older parents.

Who are You, Now? If your family is blessed with longstanding strong ties, open communication and support for one another, then now is a good time to deepen that bond. Maintain focus on building mutual understanding by keeping updated on each other’s lives through regular calls, texts, and letters that show the nuances of who you are and what is happening in your life. When interacting, ask deep questions that allow for open dialogue rather than short answers. Inquire about the kind of emotional support you need from each other, not just physical or logistical support. (ex: What concerns weigh on your mind or heart these days, Mom?). Also, discuss current events in the world and in daily life such as each other’s work, hobbies, and social relationships. If you sense gaps in your parents’ life that affect their wellbeing (e.g. loneliness), then raise that topic with them.

Find Value in the Little Things. For many of adult children, it’s hard to see past the shortcomings and missteps (or mistakes) we perceived our parents made with us while growing up under their roof. Again, looking at their choices or even asking them about those choices with the intention to understand and appreciate the challenges they faced at the time can go a long way to repairing frayed family ties. In doing so, you can find value in the little things and the sacrifices that impacted their choices, much of which is lost on us during our youth. Gaining appreciation for their experience at the time, helps create space for forgiveness, for healing old wounds and resolving differences. Again, a counselor or support group can be a real asset in helping aging parents and adult children move into alliance with one another.

Healthy Boundaries, Stronger Family Connections. You may be in a situation where you want a peaceful and amicable relationship with your loved ones, but old hurt, rivalries with siblings, and other family drama keeps popping up. In these circumstances, a counselor is essential to help all family members set healthy boundaries and focus on how to maintain open dialogue, steering clear of hurtful topics and drama. Sometimes we won’t be able to come to resolution, but with acceptance of what we can’t change, we can move forward well-enough to be present without resentment or regret. 

Life is fragile; we sense this the older we get. Helping our parents age with courage and dignity through open dialogue, mending strained family relations, forgiving and showing grace to ourselves and our parents can be difficult to do. Planning the path forward for our aging parents before memory loss or other illness makes them unable to participate in the process is an act of compassion for all involved. One that will help us bear the sorrow or their passing without resentment or regret. Take the time, now to strengthen your relationship with an aging parent or adult child so that when the time does come to day good-bye you are not just prepared, you both can move on in peace knowing that you gave it your best.

Support for Planning a Path Forward with Everbrook Senior Living

All of us at Everbrook Senior Living have walked the path of planning a path forward for our aging parents—many of us needed to mend fences along the way. We understand the challenge and the reward in this process. It is at the heart of the work we do for the families we serve. It is why we established the Everbrook communities for active older adults and assisted living. Our compassionate, professional staff can help facilitate honest conversations between family members faced with making decisions about care for aging parents. Our first and utmost concern is that everyone involved has a voice in the process and finds the best fit for their loved one’s needs, including social-emotional, spiritual, medical, and financial. Contact us to learn more about how we can assist with the conversation and decision making between aging parents and adult children. 

Further Reading

HopkinsMedicine.org: “Tough (But Important) Conversations [with Aging Parents]”

NPR.org: “8 Essential Conversations to Have with Your Aging Parent”

Family Caregiver Alliance Webinar: “Families with Aging Parents: Difficult Conversations Just Got Easier”, presented by Nicole Lance, JD.

AARP.org: “5 Tips for Difficult Family Caregiving Conversations”

A wonderful way for older adults to add meaning and joy to life is to initiate new friendships in the New Year. Studies show that friendship provides vital social connections that support mental and physical health. As people are living longer, it’s important to establish habits and routines that add quality to the Golden Years. Studies show older adult friendship is vital to lowering risk for and reducing the impact of existing chronic illness, such as cognitive decline, loneliness, depression, and heart disease. It’s never too late in life to make a new friend…the tips below will help you get started!

Health Benefits of Friendship for Older Adults

Throughout our lives and particularly during older adult hood, friendship provides vital social connections that offer protective health benefits that bolsters mental and physical wellbeingprotective health benefits that bolsters mental and physical wellbeing. When we are more socially connected, we give ourselves a “biological edge” over chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and chronic pain. Studies also show that friendship in older adulthood protects against mental health issues such as stress, cognitive decline, loneliness, depression and anxiety.

Since we are living longer, into our 90’s, it’s important to establish habits and experiences that support quality of life. Forming new friendships, no matter how young or old creates a special connection because it is chosen and offers mutual caring and support established around shared interests or personalities, which enriches quality of life. Additionally, a friendship grounded in shared respect and interest is an essential part of romantic relationships—no matter how old we are.

Tips to Create New Friendships Older Adulthood

While it is true that our social circles change during older adulthood, you can take steps to create and maintain new social ties in the Golden Years.

Meaningful Connection Can Be Short or Long-Term

Just as it benefits our health to eat a colorful variety of foods and to move our bodies indifferent ways each day, socially the same is true: Try to meet a variety of people. Explore different settings in which you might encounter kindred spirits. At the same time, don’t discount the benefit of friendly interactions in temporary situations—encounters with people where we have a shared goal (e.g., volunteer work) also builds a sense of community even if the encounter does not evolve into a lasting friendship.

Be a Joiner: Clubs and Organizations

A special interest club (book, music, art, photography, bird watching, walking, Sierra or Audubon Club, etc.) is a great way to meet people with similar interest as you. Your local YMCA, JCC, Senior Center, library, or senior living community will have many options.

Initiating New Friendships in the New Year: Tips for Older Adults

Easy Ways Older Adults Can Initiate New Friendships in the New Year

Not a Joiner? Take a Bus Trip!

If joining a group isn’t your thing but you’d like to expand your social circle, consider going solo (or maybe invite a friend you already have) to do a group bus tour or day trip. Many local bus companies, libraries, senior centers, etc. will host bus trips that are open to the public.

Get Social Media but Don’t Rely on It

Joining social media groups for older adults in your area can be a great resource for learning about programs, events, and opportunities to connect. However, don’t rely on social media to develop friendship—in person connection is the heart of real friendship. If you not media-savvy, a local librarian can help you get started.

Keep Learning: Take A Class

Check out the non-credit course offerings at a local community college or community recreation center. Art, history, cooking, master gardening, flower arranging, photography…and so much more can be right at you fingertips.

Bridge the Generational Gap: Volunteer

Volunteering with organizations that serve young people can be a great way to feel more youthful while also being of service. Consider becoming a mentor, a literacy coach, a classroom or library reader, or tutor.

New Friendships Found Every Day at Everbrook Senior Living communities

Engaging in hobbies and leisure activities is vital to quality of life in the Golden Years. Doing those things with a friends adds to joy and fulfillment, which supports healthy, independent living for older adults. At Everbrook Senior Living, our best-in-class services focus on our resident’s unique interests and needs. Custom programs are designed to help our residents establish new social connections, explore activities that add meaning and redefine purpose. Our exceptionally talented and caring staff create environments that nurture an older adult’s physical, emotional and social well-being. We wouldn’t expect anything less for our own family members and you should expect no less for you and yours.

For healthy holiday travel, most older adults have to pay attention to a few key considerations so that their time on the road and at their destination is stress-free. Before departing for a holiday trip, older adults should consult with their personal physician and plan ahead for special assistance that may be needed. During travel and once at your destination, it’s important to stay hydrated, take frequent breaks, snack smart, get plenty of rest, and avoid over-scheduling. 

Whether you’re traveling the world or just going across the state for a stay-cation, these tips will help older adults stay healthy when traveling during holiday season.

Before Travel 

• See your doctor: Schedule a checkup to discuss required vaccines, prescriptions, travel risks such as environmental factors, allergens, and protection against illness, and ensure you are physically fit for travel.
• Manage medications: Get prescription refills, pack extra for emergencies, and carry a medication list and checklist. Keep all essential medications with you in your carry-on; do not place in checked luggage.
• Pack a health kit: Include over-the-counter pain relievers, medications for upset stomach/nausea/constipation, face masks, and hand sanitizer.
• Arrange for assistance: Book wheelchair assistance in advance for flights or consider purchasing travel insurance. 
• Plan for urgent situations: No matter how well or far ahead you plan, life has a way of throwing a curve ball. Have a solid “urgent care” plan. Familiarize yourself with the healthcare facilities and emergency contact numbers at your destination city. Ask your health insurance company for assistance with in-network providers or the out-of-network options available to you. This way, if anything comes up, you know where to go and what to do. And finally, keep a record of important health information, including allergies and chronic conditions, readily available. 
• Stay connected: Share your travel itinerary and emergency contact information with loved ones. Have a backup plan for potential delays. Check-in with loved ones frequently
• Pack comfort items: Bring a neck pillow, small blanket or light jacket, wear supportive shoes, and any other items that will make your journey more comfortable.

PRO TIP:  If you have a chronic health condition you may need to make special arrangements both for during travel and at your travel destination. You might want to consider using a travel agent to ensure that your accommodation requirements are sufficiently met during your trip.

During Travel – Destination Tips

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, even if you don't feel thirsty. Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine, which can cause dehydration.
• Prioritize rest: Don't overschedule yourself. Get enough sleep the nights before you travel and throughout your trip—plan breaks and naps in your daily itinerary.
• Move frequently: Whether traveling by car, plane, or train, it is important to take movement breaks every hour or so. This will reduce muscle tension and joint stiffness, promote circulation, and lift your mood.
• Eat smart: Carry healthy snacks and plan meals to maintain energy. Eat smaller portions on planes and be cautious with unfamiliar foods.

PRO TIP: If you are a family member or caregiver traveling with an older adult, your role is to support their planning and help them be as independent as possible during the trip. Check out these holiday travel tips with an older adult.

At Everbrook Senior Living, we encourage our older adult residents to travel as a way to support mental and emotional wellbeing. Travel brings novel experiences that strengthen memory, self-efficacy, and a sense of wonder. At some of our communities a concierge is available to assist with travel planning. Schedule a tour or call us today to learn more.

Further Reading

See the World and Stay Healthy: 11 Things for Older Adults to Keep in Mind for Travel

https://www.cjcareconsulting.com/holiday-travel-tips-for-families-of-aging-parents

A Movie Night for older adults provides a great way to bring together film buffs for friendship and stimulating conversation about characters, plots, and themes. With more Gen-X era adults joining the Baby Boomers in senior living communities, there’s no shortage of films to choose from for reminiscing or to expand your movie horizons with contemporary flicks. Follow our suggestions below to launch a movie night that will warm-up autumn and winter evenings with thrills, chills, love and laughter!

Remember, all of the Everbrook communites have a wonderful movie theater, complete with comfy leather seating and a large projection screen!

Movie Nights Enhances Wellbeing for Older Adults

From Halloween through Valentine’s Day is a great time to host movie nights for older adults. With the outdoor temperature dropping, a movie night offers the opportunity to warm-up with friends and cultivate new social connections around a common interest, while also preventing health problems brought on by loneliness and isolation.

Some Fun "Movie Night" Themes

And the Award Goes To…

Choose films that have won awards for best director, best actor, story/scrip, or cinematography. When you create your movie night announcement (see below), mention these awards as it may capture the interest of potential participants.

Based on the Book By…

Films based on books can be a big hit for many reasons, the least of which is discussion on “which was better the book or the film”. People love to debate things like the actors chosen to portray book characters on the big screen, how script changes added to or detracted from the book, and so on.

‘Tis the Season…

For Gen-X and late generation Boomers, these movies tend to be full of nostalgia, making for great conversation as you jaunt down memory lane. Check out our seasonal favorites, listed below. 

Film Picks for Gen-X & Boomer Movie Nights

Feel-Good Movies

• Breakfast Club
• The Big Chill
• Clerks
• Ferris Bueler’s Day Off
• Footloose
• Forrest Gump
• Good Will Hunting
• The Goonies
• The Big Chill
• Practical Magic
• Stand By Me
• St. Elmo’s Fire
• You’ve Got Mail 

Creepy Movies

• Alien
• The Exorcist
• The Fly
• Gremlins
• Poltergeist
• Sleepy Hollow
• The Shining
• The Sixth Sense
• What Lies Beneath

Holiday Movies and Love Stories

• Bridget Jone’s Diary
• Die Hard
• Groundhog Day
• Home Alone
• Love, Actually
• Fatal Attraction
• Four Weddings and a Funeral
• Miracle
• Planes, Trains, and Automobiles
• Pretty Woman
• National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
• Scrooged
• Sleepless in Seattle
• Steel Magnolias
• The Santa Clause
• When Harry Met Sally
• While You Were Sleeping

Whichever movie you decide to watch, remember to grab your popcorn and to please silence your cell phone. :) 

National Book Month is the perfect time for older adults to gather together with a group of like-minded bookworms to celebrate your love of a good story. Every October, National Book Month coincides with the announcement of the National Book Awards, bringing attention to the importance of literature and literacy, encouraging people of all ages to immerse themselves in the joy of reading, writing, and sharing stories. We’ve put together tips to help older adult “book lovers” start a book group and infuse fun and fancy into your group meetings.

Basic Guidelines for Older Adult Book Groups

Before we jump into book club ideas, we want to remind you of a few basic guidelines to help ensure your group is successful and fun for all:

Size, Structure and Consistency. A good book group size is 4-8 people, especially if you’re group is just forming. Stick to a routine meeting time. For example, meeting monthly, the third Tuesday at 6:30 – 8:00pm, at a standard meeting place or rotating to meet at a member’s home. You’ll also want to have structure to agree upon:

• How will books be chosen?
• Who will lead the meetings?
• Who will be responsible for overall group communication?

Purpose, Goals & Ground Rules. Will your book club focus on a specific genre: fiction (which we focus on in this article), nonfiction, thriller, historical fiction, true crime, or some other genre? Or maybe yours is an eclectic group with all members willing to read “outside their comfort zone.” Assess what members want to get out of the group: friendship, expanding their reading horizons, learning something new? Also set ground rules for acceptable participant conduct (mutual respect, being non-judgmental, having an open mind, being on time, etc.)

Communication Plan. Phone tree, email, text message—have a way to communicate with all group members about the selected book title, who is leading/hosting the next meeting, and any changes to an upcoming meeting, etc. Also, be sure to use an RSVP system so that the host can prepare accordingly for number of participants.

Prepare Thoughtful Discussion Questions. Some, but not all, books come with discussion guides. If you aren’t sure how to prepare thoughtful discussion questions for your older adult book group, seek the help of a librarian (also a great resource for choosing books that older adults will love to discuss).

Encourage Participation, Support Differing Views. Everyone has to agree (back to purpose and goals) to be respectful, open-minded, and supportive even if views of a book or responses to discussion questions are not “on the same page.” Have an agreed upon plan for how differing points of view will be navigated in order to keep discussion lively and insightful for all. Remember, reading has many benefits for mental and emotional well-being; book group should add to, not detract from, those benefits. 

4 Fun Ideas for Older Adult Book Clubs

National Book Award Fall Reading Group

The longlist for the National Book Award Finalists in Fiction was announced in September 2025. In October, that list will be shortened (aka “the shortlist) in advance of the award recipient being announced in November. This makes October a great month to gather your fellow bookworms together to read one of the semi-finalist novels.

A Haunted Theme for Your Book Club

‘Tis the season for spooky things so why not focus your book group on a haunted tale or two? Consider a collection of classic short stories (Hawthorne or Poe, perhaps?) For something more contemporary—you’ll get a good scare from the English writer, Ramsey Campbell, an older adult author known for known for his quiet, psychological stories of dread and unease.

Favorite Character Book Club Meeting

Each month your book club picks a novel to read and discuss. Well, now your members can get into character for the book discussion! When the group meets to discuss the chosen title, each member must come in some form of costume (or at least bring a few token accessories) that symbolize one of the characters. The person who selected the book and is leading the discussion gets to pick first the character they’d like to be. All other members pick a character by either drawing character names from a jar or some other random assignment you all agree on. It’s also fun to serve snacks that are aligned with the genre, theme, or premise for the book. 

Book and Beverage Pairing Event

In fine dining establishments, appetizers to entrées have an appropriate pairing with a specific beverage, from an aperitif to a demitasse to a full-bodied wine or fermented drink. Now, what beverage might be the best pairing for your favorite book? That is what you and your book club members will find out at this pairing event! Each member will bring a copy of their favorite book (along with an enticing summary) and a beverage to pair with it, along with a rationale for why the two go together. If there’s concern about whether or not caffeine or alcohol is appropriate for all members, then set ground rules for that; there are plenty of “virgin options” for wine and spirits.

Spice-up Your Book Group’s Gathering Space

Finally, consider the following tips for elevating the aesthetics of the gathering to create a delightful atmosphere for discussion:

• ambient lighting, electric candles, or fairy lights 
• throw pillows, cozy blankets, and fuzzy socks on chilly night 
• play soft music in the background such Mozart, Vivaldi or Bach to support focus, concentration, and creativity (ask members to take turns selecting music)
• decorate your meeting space to align with a book’s theme, time period, or setting
• serve drinks and treats to keep everyone alert and engaged 

A Golden Experience for Older Adults at Everbrook Senior Living

At Everbrook Senior Living, our residents participate in a wide variety of stimulating activities that promote social connection, creativity, and intellectual curiosity. We invite you to visit one of our award-winning, best-in-class luxury residences, located throughout New England. Our compassionate, professional staff are committed to making every resident’s experience “golden”. Learn more.

There are plenty of benefits to becoming an active older adult, such as: 

• wisdom acquired from life experience and sharing that with others
• time to explore new interests
• opportunity for leisure travel and entertainment
• quality time with friends and family
• feeling more accepting of who you are

Yet, these positive aspects of older adulthood rarely get the attention they deserve. To address this, as a nation, we observe Healthy Aging Month every September. 

Never Too Late…

The theme for Healthy Aging Month 2025 is “Never Too Late to Reinvent Yourself.” Read on for “fun and fabulous” tips to help you reset your outlook on growing older and renew your commitment to your physical, emotional, and social wellbeing. 

1. Keep a “What’s Next” Journal. 
This journal is a way to give thoughtful consideration to what comes next for you in older adulthood. There’s no right or wrong way to approach figuring out “what’s next” for you. Imagine, envision, and reflect on what can add meaning to this new phase of your life. Consider starting with wish lists; pictures of things, places, or experiences that resonate with you; make sketches or collages; or simply answer “what if…” for yourself. You might also find it helpful to work with a certified coach who specializes in adult life transitions.

2. Connect with Purpose. 
With the time that most older adults have available to them, why not put yours to good use by volunteering as a way to connect with others with purpose. Whether it’s an after-school program, animal rescue, food pantry, library, or other mission-driven organization of interest to you, the wisdom and experience you bring as an older adult is highly valued. Plus, volunteering has many health benefits for you, too!

3. Cook a New Healthy Recipe Every Week.
Be it an appetizer, entrée, side dish, or dessert, learning to cook keeps your reading and math skills sharp. The added bonus of cooking with or for others helps maintain social connections. When you stick with healthy dishes, you’re supporting your physical health. To mix-in more learning fun, consider cooking cultural foods and take the time to learn the history and significance of foods from around the globe. Don’t want to go it alone? Join a local cooking club or take lessons through your local community college or senior living program.

4. Cultivate Incidental Connections.
If you haven’t found new friends through volunteering or cooking adventures, then try cultivating new connections through “incidental connections.” These are the casual connections you encounter daily but tend to breeze by. For example, if you make a daily stop to the local bagel shop in the morning, strike up a casual conversation with your server or the barista who prepares your coffee. Do you cross paths with the same neighbor on your evening walk—strike up a chat and maybe plan to walk together another night. These micro-connections can help reduce loneliness and lift your spirits. There are dozens of incidental connections throughout your day—pick one and cultivate it!

5. Go on Microadventures!
You don’t need to travel far to have fun or add adventure to your life. Take some time to rediscover your local area through museums, gardens, and nature trails. Your local library, senior center, or concierge at Everbrook Senior Living can point you in the right direction. Bonus! Adding laughter, play and adventure to your day helps support emotional  wellbeing, and physical stamina, and brain health.

Live a Fabulous Life at Everbrook Senior Living

The Everbrook Senior Living communities provide abundant opportunities and programs to support healthy aging. Our Wellness 4 Later Life program keeps residents active, curious, and inspired. You find resources that support a holistic approach to physical, social, emotional, financial, and spiritual wellbeing. From personalized fitness programs to hobby and social clubs, and travel opportunities you’ll have abundant choices for living, learning, playing, and laughing throughout the Golden Years. 

We invite you to come see for yourself all that Everbrook Senior Living has to offer. Call today to schedule a tour.    

And don’t forget to look for more events at an Everbrook communtiy near you.

Wellness for older adults goes beyond physical health and prevention of illness. This month, we focus on the habits that support you in feeling your best. During the Golden Years the key elements of wellness include: 

• Emotional Fulfillment and Social Connection
• Mental Stimulation 
• Physical Movement

Let’s take a closer look at each of these; then, check-out our tips to help you create a wellness routine in older adulthood.

• Emotional Fulfillment and Social Connection

Having opportunities to connect socially is directly related to feeling emotionally fulfilled. These two areas of wellness intersect, and both are vital to older adult well-being. You don’t need to be a socially butterfly, but you do need to have outlets to connect with others as these engagements help combat loneliness, depression, anxiety, and support overall healthy aging. 

How an older adult defines emotional fulfillment, and the extent of their social connections will vary for each person. At Everbrook Senior Living, we offer programs that support older adults as they explore activities and engagements that creates a sense of purpose and brings more meaning to their lives.

• Mental Stimulation 

An active mind promotes brain health and protects against cognitive decline. This means your better able to focus, concentrate, recall information, and engage in problem-solving. Now, you don’t have to solve calculus problems as a hobby to keep an active mind! Daily mental stimulation through games, puzzles, art and music, travel, book clubs, volunteering, or nurturing an existing or new hobby are all great ways to support brain health.

• Physical Movement

Keeping physically active as an older adult is essential for your mobility, balance and coordination, muscle strength and stamina, heart health, and brain health, too! Whether you walk, swim, practice yoga, hike or garden, movement on a daily basis protects against diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Exercise routines tailored to older adults helps older adults maintain their independent longer, too. 

Never too Late for Wellness in Older Adulthood 

Transitioning from the busy, working adult years into active older adulthood brings about many changes. If you’ve had the benefit of planning ahead for your emotional, mental, and physical wellbeing in older adulthood—good for you! If you haven’t—or if you’re struggling now to find balance in these essential areas of wellness, it’s not too late to get started.

Here are three easy ways to begin:

1. Prioritize Self-Care. Self-care means putting first the things that matter most to sustain your health and vitality. This includes healthy nourishment, sufficient sleep, adequate water intake, taking medicines as prescribed, tending to preventive health screenings, drinking in moderation, avoiding nicotine, caffeine and processed foods, and making time for family and friends. If you’re struggling to prioritize self-care, consider talking to a health coach who specializes in older adult wellness.
2. Manage Stress. Yes, managing stress is a part of self-care, but it’s so important to mental and physical health (at every age) that it gets special attention. For older adults, chronic stress can make existing health conditions worse and trigger new health problems. Stress is linked to illnesses such as autoimmune conditions, heart disease, cancer, dementia, and anxiety and depression. One of the best and simplest ways to manage stress is to spend time in nature. Also consider yoga, mindfulness meditation, and learning deep breathing techniques.
3. Create a Daily Routine. You might need to look at your daily routine to identify where you are wasting energy and time on things that don’t matter and don’t support health. Routines create stability, reduce stress, and even promote happiness. Change is not always easy, but it doesn’t have to be hard. Start small and stay consistent. Consider telling one close friend or family member what you’re wanting to accomplish and ask them to be your accountability partner. You’ll have a greater likelihood of success with social support! 

The communities at Everbrook Senior Living provide every resident with opportunities to participate in physical activities, social engagements, creative outlets, and much more. Our dedicated and compassionate staff will support you in establishing routines that mesh with your unique needs, interests, and goals—in all the key areas of older adult wellness. If you’re curious about what life could have in store for you in the Golden Years... come visit Everbook Senior Living and discover the possibilities for a healthy, active and vibrant life – the life you deserve.

Life is Good for Active Older Adults Residing at Award Winning Everbrook 

An award-winning senior living lifestyle awaits you and summer is the time to experience all that the Everbrook communities offer current and prospective residents. 

Let’s start with the accolades… All five of the established Everbrook communities received the 2025 Best of Senior Living award! Recipients of this award stand out for the exceptional care and support provided to older adults in independent living, assisted living, memory care, and in-home care. The Best of Senior Living Award winners represent the top 1-2% of senior care providers nationwide based on reviews from those who matter most: residents and families. Each of the Everbrook Communities are nestled within quaint New England communities that are a “puddle-jump” from the attractions of bigger cities and towns. 

If you’re already residing with us, or if are considering an Everbrook community properties for yourself or a loved one, this article will introduce you to some of the many wonderful summer activities accessible from each of our established communities. Please also visit the community webpage to learn more about the location, surrounding towns and the lifestyle amenities of each.

What’s happening near the Everbrook communities in CT, MA & NH this summer?

Colebrook Village located in Hebron, CT is surrounded by foliage-line, quiet streets, minutes from the central town corridor and Gay City State Park for outdoor activities. Events kick-off in March with Maple Fest and continue through Summer and Fall with Hebron Day, summer concerts, July 4th fireworks, and many other family-friendly events.

Elmbrook Village at Bozrah/Norwich, CT is rich in Colonial-era history, making it perfect for the history buff. Sheltered from the business of city life in nearby Greenwich, CT or Providence, RI, this quiet town is perfect for hiking at Maples Farm Park or fly-fishing along the Yantic River. If the outdoors aren’t for you, enjoy a relaxing retreat at the Norwich Inn and Spa. If you’re a connoisseur of beer, or wine —then the Norwich Beer Festival or Norwich Wine Week are not to be missed. Music, arts, and the usual summer fun for kids of all ages are within reach of Elmbrook Village.

Stonebrook Village at Windsor Locks, CT is embraced by scenic roads and waterways, including Enfield Falls, a large waterfall along the Connecticut River. Trails for walking/jogging, biking and hiking weave through the local area with many scenic spots along the Windsor Locks State Canal. Six Flags New England and the Air Museum are a short drive. June brings “Brewfest” and July brings fireworks, concerts (Bon Jovi night!), and more community events to Enfield and Windsor Locks area. If you enjoy the arts, the Arts Council has something for everyone at “ART’ober Fest”! 

Cedarbrook Village at Ware, MA is a quiet town that embodies all that you might picture about a quaint, New England town:  rolling hills, trails, shops and dining—as you will find near to other Everbrook communities. Ware, though places you in easy driving distance of 3 major cities and all the entertainment, cultural, and foodie experiences you care to enjoy: Boston, MA; Hartford, CT; and Springfield, MA. For the outdoor enthusiasts, Berkshire Mountains offer waterways, trails, and bikeways to explore—and  there’s a variety of seasonal events to keep you as busy as you’d like to be. For kids of all ages, Great Wolf Lodge and Six Flags New England are in your backyard! At the end of long day of outdoor exploring, relax to a quiet porch at a mountain lodge or – if you’ve spent the day leisure reading on that porch, head to one of the fine cities for an evening on the town.

Hillsbrook Village at Allenstown, NH is quintessential with northern New England small town living. Known for a close-knit community, year-round outdoor activities, and plenty of fairs and festivals pop-up through adjacent towns. Allenstown is where you go to unwind and explore at a slower pace. From Bear Brook State Park to Candia Vineyards to the sites and sounds of Manchester or a little further onto Boston… there’s a little something for everyone within reach of Hillsbrook Village.

Everbrook will be opening 2 more senior living communities this summer; Islebrook Village at Wiscasset, ME and Lunabrook Village at Torrington, CT. We will follow up with more information on those new communities in the coming months.

Today’s older adult is often on the move, and summer is prime time for outdoor activities under the sun. Whether you’re beaching, biking, hiking, gardening, or just relaxing, you’ll want to take extra precautions to protect your eyes from sun exposure. That means investing a little time in choosing quality eyewear designed to counter the sun’s UV rays as well as nourishing and exercising the eyes.

Three Ways to Protect the Eyes

• Proper Summer Eyewear
• Nutrients to Support Eye Health
• Yoga for the Eyes

Proper Summer Eyewear for Active Older Adults

UV-protective eyewear is essential year-round for everyone, particularly in the summer months when we spend more time near bodies of water and other reflective surfaces. Summer days are longer and sun exposure increases as we spend more time outdoors. UV light waves are the damage-causing rays emitted by the sun—too much exposure to UV waves can cause serious problems for the eyes: sun damage, sunburn, cataracts, macular degeneration, and even eye cancer or blindness.  If you have any health conditions of the eye, or take certain medications, your eyes may be at higher risk for sun damage.

Sunglasses for Older Adults should offer 100% UV protection. Your sunglasses should feel comfortable and, depending on your health history may need to “wrap around” your peripheral vision. You may also want to opt for polarized lenses if you spend a lot of time on the water. Always check with your eyecare health provider about the best eyewear for you. 

Hats Off to Sun Protection! Hats with a rim or visor are ideal to filter out rays that your eyewear doesn’t cover.

Don’t Leave Home Without Them. Older adults should wear their sunglasses on overcast, bright days as well as sunny and clear days. Whether your out for a leisurely stroll, gardening or spending time at the beach—don’t leave home without your sunglasses! 

Nutrients to Support Eye Health

Vitamin A. The most important vitamin for healthy eyes and good vision is Vitamin A. Carrots, are well-known for providing Vitamin A, but the nutrient in carrots is beta carotene, which is different from Vitamin A. The body has to convert carotenoids to retinols before it can actively use them. Also, some folks have trouble digesting raw carrots or may not like them. So, you want to be sure to include a variety of foods that are rich in bioavailable Vitamin A—a form most easily assimilated by the body—including foods such as cod liver oil, king mackerel, salmon, sweet potato, winter squash, turnip greens, sweet red pepper, spinach, mango, and cantaloupe

Antioxidants. The foods richest in antioxidants (vitamins A, C and E) tend to be berries (along with other fruits and vegetables in general). These nutrients support the health of the eyes by way of supporting immunity and helping the body to clear-out cellular debris that results from stress, illness, and exposure to toxins 

Yoga for the Eyes

The eyes are supported by bands of muscles (the extraocular muscles) that control their movement. Exercising those muscles can improve circulation to the eyes, which helps reduce inflammation and minimize eye fatigue. Strong eye muscles also protect against the negative effects of vision overuse patterns such as digital eye strain or frequent night driving. 

Below is one of several eye exercises that nourish and strengthen the musclesand other structures of the eyes.

Figure 8 Eye Exercise

You may have practiced this exercise, sometimes called “yoga for the eyes,” if you’ve ever taken a yoga class. This exercise should be done from a seated position, such as at your desk, while relaxing in your favorite chair, or while in an easy, seated yoga pose.

• Pick a point on the floor about 10 feet in front of you and focus on it.
• Trace an imaginary figure eight with your eyes.
• Keep tracing for 30 seconds, then switch directions.

Remember, keeping the eye muscles strong, flexible, and nourished is essential to protecting eye health as you age.

If you are concerned about changes in your vision, or experiencing any of the symptoms listed, it may be time to adopt healthier habits, make changes in your vision care plan, or consult with an ophthalmologist. The health and wellness team at each of the Everbrook Senior Living communities are here to support and guide you.

There’s power in the written word, particularly in reading stories and books that convey a shared experience, shedding light on the ways in which we might, in our own lives, cope with a challenge, heal from a loss or trauma, or become more informed before making difficult decisions for ourselves or for a loved one. All of these are reasons we might turn to reading, both fiction and nonfiction, about how other people navigate a diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. 

Several authors have written about dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, exploring how to come to terms with the diagnosis, tips for seeking care, and finding hope and meaning in the days that remain to be lived. 

Below, we highlight a few of these authors and their memoir, novel, or non-fiction ‘practical guide.’ Not just for adults, you’ll find books that can be helpful for young adults and children who will also need support as they witness mental decline in a beloved family member.

Novels

Conversations with My Mother by Ronald-Stéphane Gilbert is set on the Maine coast where Yvette Allaire has lived her life. As she succumbs to dementia, her nomadic son and acerbic daughter attempt to cope. The novel draws parallels between the erasure of memory brought on by the illness and the deterioration of Maine’s once idyllic coast. It’s a deeply moving story about the ways in which dementia touches the lives of family members, bringing them to find hope in the present moment—for there is no other moment in time when losing a loved one to dementia. 

Still Alice by Lisa Genova is a remarkable novel about Alice Howland’s rapid spiral into Alzheimer’s disease at just 50 years old. A Harvard professor with everything going for her, Alice must re-evaluate everything in her life—work, family, relationships, identity—and find her new place in the world, while being still Alice. Genova, who lives in Massachusetts, is a Harvard trained neuroscientist, who has written several novels dealing with the mystery of memory—how it is formed and what happens to people’s lives as it slips away. 

Nonfiction

The Inheritance Drawing from several years of in-depth research, Boston-based journalist Niki Kapsambelis tells the story of Alzheimer’s through the humanizing lens of an ordinary family made extraordinary by both their terrible circumstances and their bravery. The DeMoe family has an inherited genetic mutation that causes Alzheimer’s in one hundred percent of cases and has a fifty percent chance of being passed on to future generations. The DeMoe’s story is intertwined with the dramatic narrative exploring the cutting-edge research looking for a possible cure and an in-depth account of the physicians spearheading this groundbreaking research.

My Father’s Brain: Life in the Shadow of Alzheimer’s by Sandeep Jauhar, M.D. is a deeply affecting memoir of the author’s father’s descent into dementia. With humility, humor, and heartbreak, Jauhar, a practicing cardiologist based on Long Island, explores the moral and psychological concerns that arise when family members must become caregivers, when children’s and parents’ roles reverse, and what it means to be oneself. Throughout we gain insight into why the brain and memory degenerate with age, the bioethics of research, and how researchers, doctors, and caregivers are left to confront with this devastating illness.

For Young Readers

Cassie and the House of Mirrors, a graphic novel by Dean Stuart depicting the enduring bond between a grandfather and grandchild as the grandfather succumbs to dementia. With sensitivity and care, the books takes readers on a journey into the mind of Alzheimer’s When Cassie’s grandfather wanders off, sets out to find him but instead finds herself in “grandpa’s memory place”—a mysterious place not unlike a house of mirrors or a Salvadore Dali painting, which gives Cassie access to her grandfather’s memories and state of mind. Not merely story, the graphic novel is informative in an age-appropriate way allowing Cassie to appreciate her grandfather’s life and understand him as he grapples with dementia. 

A Loved One with Dementia: Insights and Tips for Teenagers by Jean Rawitt gives young adults insight into what dementia is and offers meaningful ways for continuing to have positive interactions with their loved one. With thoughtful guidance from professionals and glimpses into coping from other young adults who have experienced dementia in a loved one, this is a wonderful guide helping young people cope with the mix of difficult emotions that arise when a family member is losing their memory.

Additional book titles and lists

The Complete Family Guide to Dementia

Auntie P, Music & Me by Pamela Krist Atwood

Dementia Action Alliance Reading List

Books to help children understand dementia