Senior Scene
At Brookdale University Park, residents can grow in their physical health through fun activities. The Physical Dimension of Brookdale’s Optimum Life model is just one of six dimensions of well-being so residents will never stop growing.
Do physical connections matter? Studies show exercise and physical activity influence how well we age. And fitness even supports brain health. As we age, we’re less active. By age 75 one in three men and one in two women do not engage in physical activity. Turns out, movement is good medicine. Physical activity helps lower blood pressure, prevent loss of mobility, reduce risk of falling, and reduce anxiety and depression. Being physically active can ease arthritis pain by 40%. Physical activity can help support brain health, too. When muscles work, they release a protein that generates new cells and connections in a part of the brain that is critical to memory.
Just 20 minutes of exercise, like walking, can act as an anti-inflammatory. And 25 minutes of moderate physical activity per day, plus strength training twice a week (yes, yoga counts!), will meet the government’s fitness recommendations. Don’t let the word exercise scare you. Focus more on being physically active. Walking your dog, gardening and dancing are all great ways to stay active. To help you stick with your plan, pic things you like to do, and block out time on your calendar, just like any other meeting or appointment. Team up with an exercise buddy, a close friend or even your dog. People who exercise with a partner are more likely to stick with it! The good news- a little goes a long way.
Companioning the Bereaved: Caring Versus Curing
You are invited to attend this special event with Alan D. Wolfelt, PhD, CT, Director of Center for Loss & Transition. Healthcare workers face grief on the front lines both professionally and personally. This presentation will help you enhance your knowledge and skills related to supporting people experiencing grief and loss. Anchored in Dr. Alan Wolfelt’s “companioning” model of grief care, there will be a recognition of how grief and mourning are normal and necessary experiences that are fundamentally a journey of the heart and soul. A critical distinction between caring versus curing will be outlined. Participants will go away with a wealth of knowledge surrounding the transformative nature of grief.
Following this presentation the participant will be able to:
- Define a broader framework for loss/grief.
- Explain the distinction between “caring” versus “curing.”
- Understand the 11 tenets of “companioning” versus “treating” the mourner
- Define six universal needs of mourning.
This event is by reservation only. RSVP to receive the Zoom meeting ID by contacting Leanne Messer at [email protected], 205-613-0688.
An Invitation to Experience Brookdale
We are excited and proud to say that Brookdale University Park is open to new residents! Brookdale residents enjoy an engaging lifestyle with a selection of care options to meet changing needs. The community conveniently located off Lakeshore Drive offers a full continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, Alzheimer’s and dementia care and skilled nursing and rehabilitation. Call 205-870-0786 to connect with one of our team members who would be delighted to help you plan your personal visit, www.brookdale.com.
-Leanne Messer, Brookdale University Park
Contact Leanne to participate in upcoming Brookdale educational offerings and to schedule a tour, [email protected], 205-613-0688
