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June is Pride Month, a time when we celebrate the resilience and diversity of the LGBTQ+ community. As we observe this month, I want to take a moment to reflect on the values of our organization, which include creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.

Our faith-based community is built upon a foundation of love, compassion, and equality. As such, we are committed to treating all members of our community with respect, dignity, and kindness. We acknowledge that there are unique challenges faced by members of the LGBTQ+ community, and we strive to create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone under our care.

I am proud of the work that we have done so far to support LGBTQ+ residents, team members and families, but there is always more that we can do. This month, I urge us all to strive for greater understanding and empathy, and to continue the conversation around LGBTQ+ inclusion and acceptance.

I want to take this opportunity to wish all members of our communities and support services who identify as LGBTQ+ a happy and joyful Pride Month. Your contributions to our organization are deeply valued and you are an integral part of our family. To our colleagues and residents who are allies of the LGBTQ+ community, let us continue standing up for the rights of our LGBTQ+ peers and striving for a world that is more inclusive and compassionate for all.

From the bottom of my heart, I thank you all for the work that you do and the kindness that you show towards one another. Your love and support are what makes Westminster Communities of Florida a truly special place.

With kindest regards,

Terry Rogers
President & CEO

Father’s Day is a special day of the year, and it can be especially hard when you’re not able to be with your dad to celebrate. But that doesn’t mean you can’t show him how much you care from afar! We’ve put together some great Father’s Day gift ideas that will make your dad feel special, no matter how far away you are. Whether it’s a subscription for his favorite thing, a gift that pays it forward or a way to help him learn something new, there’s something for every dad.

1 – A GIFT FOR MONTHS TO COME
What better way to show your dad you’re thinking of him than with a gift that keeps on giving? There are plenty of subscription services that have something to offer dad, no matter what his interests or hobbies may be. Does he have a well-maintained beard or mustache? Sign him up for the Dollar Shave Club offering a variety of razors, blades, and shaving cream available each month. Or maybe your dad is a self-proclaimed handyman. Send him tools and gadgets each month with The Handy Box providing everything from hammers and screwdrivers to saw blades and drill bits – all delivered right to his doorstep every month. Whatever gift you choose for Father’s Day this year, make sure it’s tailored just for him.

2 – IF YOUR DAD IS A BOOKWORM
Does your dad always have his nose in a book? Peruse the bestsellers list and curate a list of books you think he may enjoy. Consider pairing your recommendations with an Audible or Amazon gift card so he can choose what to read or listen to based on your suggestions. This will show effort and thought on your part, as well as give you two something to discuss in the future. If your Dad doesn’t spend his time reading books, but rather newspapers or magazines, look into a subscription to his favorite publications. Newspapers like The Washington Post or The New York Times are excellent options for any news enthusiast. No matter what type of reader your Dad is, there are plenty of options for reading material available.

3 – PAY IT FORWARD FOR YOUR CHARITABLE DAD
Show your love for dad and pay it forward by volunteering or donating to his favorite charity in his name. Find an organization that’s close to his heart like supporting wounded warriors and veterans, or donating to cancer research. Alternatively, if you know of any local charities near Dad’s home that he may be passionate about, consider making a donation in his name or offering your time by volunteering with them for the day. This will show him that you went above and beyond for him even though you can’t be there physically on Father’s Day. Plus, it will make both of you feel great knowing that something good came out of the special day!

4 – PREPARE HIM TO PLAY HIS FAVORITE GAME
If Dad loves playing golf, you can help him improve his game even from afar. Consider an indoor putting mat so he can practice his swing and putt without leaving home. Gifting custom coaching videos from Jonathan Yarwoods is another way to upgrade Dad’s golf game. From analyzing Dad’s swing to providing tips on how he can make improvements, these personalized videos will give Dad the confidence he needs to become a better golfer. If he’d rather watch sports than play them himself, get him a subscription to ESPN+ so that he can enjoy games, documentaries and exclusive clips right from the couch. With access to hundreds of live sports events as well as original, this subscription is sure to keep Dad entertained.

5 – HELP DAD LEARN SOMETHING NEW
Fathers are always looking for new ways to learn and grow. An annual MasterClass subscription or access to LinkedIn Learning classes can provide Dad with new skills and interests. MasterClass offers exclusive online classes taught by some of the most renowned experts in their respective fields. From cooking with Gordon Ramsay, acting with Samuel L. Jackson, photography with Annie Leibovitz or even tennis instruction from Serena Williams, there’s something for every kind of father out there. LinkedIn Learning classes are another great option, offering an array of courses covering a wide range of topics such as business, technology and creative arts. Whether Dad is interested in brushing up on his Excel skills or mastering Adobe Photoshop, these courses will help him stay ahead of the curve in today’s ever-changing world. With an annual subscription or access pass to either platform, dad will be sure to find something new that peaks his interest while staying connected with you from afar this Father’s Day!

No matter how far away you may live from your Dad, there are plenty of ways to make sure he feels special this Father’s Day. From subscription services to charitable donations, classes and fresh reading material, there is something for every kind of Dad out there. Show him how much you care with a personal and meaningful gift this Father’s Day, no matter where you are.

Today is Global Running Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the sport of running. For seniors, running can be an incredibly beneficial way to stay healthy and improve their overall well-being. At Westminster Communities of Florida, we understand the importance of physical health, which is why it’s part of our eight-dimension program for well-being of mind, body and spirit.

Running offers a variety of health benefits that are especially important for seniors. For starters, running is a great way to get physical exercise that can help improve balance, coordination and strength. All of these are vital for seniors, as they can help reduce the risk for falls and other injuries, and can even help seniors move more independently.

Another benefit of running is improved mental health and emotional well-being. Going for a run can be an incredibly freeing and therapeutic experience, and can help seniors stay connected to their local community. It can also reduce stress and anxiety, and provide a sense of purpose.

Finally, running can help improve cardiovascular health, which can reduce blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels and help to reduce the risk of heart disease. Running can also help seniors stay active and maintain a healthy weight.

We hope that everyone will celebrate Global Running Day and take advantage of the many benefits that running has to offer. At Westminster Communities of Florida, we’re dedicated to helping our residents and team members stay active and healthy. Our MyWLife wellbeing program offers a wide variety of activities to enhance your well-being, including running. If you’d like to learn more about our MyWLife wellbeing program, the exciting lifestyle we offer, and the benefits of choosing a Life Plan Community, find the Westminster community nearest you today!

If you’ve lived in Florida for any amount of time, you are aware of the annual Atlantic hurricane season, which starts June 1 and lasts until November 30. It’s important to appropriately prepare for a storm in case of an emergency, but living in a Life Plan Community can alleviate some of the pressure for you.

The biggest benefit of choosing to live at a senior living Life Plan Community, when it comes to preparing for a storm, is the ease of maintenance-free living. You will never need to put up the hurricane shutters over the windows or remove storm debris from your yard again — just leave it to your community’s maintenance team!

We’ve created a convenient Hurricane Preparedness Guide where we discuss:

• What is a hurricane?
• The risks they bring
• How to both prepare for sheltering or evacuation
• What to put in an emergency supply kit
• Caring for pets in the storm
• How to prepare (or not prepare!) your home, and
• Where to get to most up-to-date information

This guide is helpful for older adults who are residents of a Life Plan Community and anyone else who lives in an area susceptible to hurricanes.

It can be expensive to buy the items necessary for your hurricane preparedness kit, so to alleviate the cost, the state of Florida offers a Sales Tax Holiday on qualifying items. This year the sales tax holiday began on May 27 and ends on June 9. There will also be a second tax holiday, starting August 26 and going until September 8.

For a full list of qualifiable items, reference Florida’s Department of Revenue’s official 2023 Florida Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday List and FAQ.

You can never be too prepared when it comes to hurricanes!

For more information about how you can live at a Westminster Life Plan Community and the benefits during hurricane season, visit our website at www.westminstercommunitesfl.org.

We had so many impressive submissions for the 29th Annual Westminster Communities Foundation Resident Art Show, with 283 in total. Congratulations to all of the participants and the 28 pieces that received awards. Thank you to our judges for assisting this year’s effort.

This showcase and contest features hundreds of pieces created by senior adults who are residents at one of Westminster Communities of Florida’s 22 active senior living communities, plus a category for Westminster team members to display their artistic talents.

Categories of artwork include oil, watercolor and acrylic paint; mixed media; drawing; photography; fabric arts; 3D work; and a category for team member artistry. First-, second- and third- place winners were selected by judges in each category and are indicated with a ribbon. Winners’ artwork will also be featured in the Foundation’s 2024 Resident Art Show calendar.

“I think the history behind the Resident Art Show is so special,” said Jeff Coates, Vice President of Philanthropy for Westminster Communities of Florida. “This event has been celebrated at Westminster for 29 years and brings all 22 communities together, which is a unique opportunity.”

The CEO Award is bestowed to artwork chosen by Westminster Communities of Florida Chief Executive Officer Terry Rogers, and is used as the cover art for the 2024 Resident Art Show calendar. This year, “Manatee and Baby” by Jé Czaja Mordon from Westminster Gardens was named the CEO Award.

“It’s great to see the extraordinary work of our residents and team members,” said Terry Rogers, Westminster Communities of Florida Chief Executive Officer. “I’m always thinking of the cover of the calendar and ‘Manatee and Baby’ is a beautiful depiction of Florida scenery and wildlife.”

View the art show by clicking this link and explore the extraordinary works produced by Westminster Communities of Florida residents and team members. Congratulations to all!

Westminster Communities of Florida always honors and supports our senior citizen veterans who served our country with valor and dedication. A common question we receive from residents and future residents is how to pay for assisted living facilities and nursing home care using Aid and Attendance benefits provided by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Aid and Attendance offers financial assistance to eligible veterans and their spouses or surviving spouses who need extra help with daily living activities.

What do you need to know about Aid and Attendance benefits?

Aid and Attendance is a special pension program designed to support senior veterans and their families in covering the costs associated with long-term care. It’s specifically aimed at those who require assistance with the activities of daily living like bathing, dressing and eating, or for those who are confined to their homes or nursing facilities.

Who may be eligible and what are the requirements?

To qualify for Aid and Attendance benefits, veterans must have served at least 90 days of active duty, with at least one day during a wartime period. Additionally, veterans must meet specific financial criteria and have a documented need for aid and attendance or be housebound. Surviving spouses of veterans may also be eligible for this benefit.

What financial assistance do Aid and Attendance benefits provide?

Aid and Attendance benefits provide additional financial support. This assistance can be used to cover the costs of an assisted living facility, nursing home care, in-home care or other medical expenses related to long-term care. The amount of the benefit varies based on factors such as income, assets and marital status. 

How do you apply for Aid and Attendance benefits?

Applying for Aid and Attendance benefits may seem overwhelming, but the VA offers resources to help veterans and their families through the process. It’s crucial to gather all necessary documentation, including military service records, medical reports and financial information before submitting the application. Veterans’ service organizations, state and county veteran service offices and accredited agents or attorneys can provide guidance and support during the application process.

As we commemorate Memorial Day, it’s important to express our gratitude for the sacrifices made by veterans, including the older adults among them. By raising awareness about Aid and Attendance benefits and caring for those who have served our nation, we hope to demonstrate our commitment to supporting veterans and their families as they face the challenges of aging.. It’s a way to ensure they receive the care and assistance they deserve.  

Did you know that residents who live in Life Plan Communities have better physical, emotional, intellectual, social and vocational wellness than seniors in the community at large? Westminster Communities of Florida is excited to share groundbreaking insights from the Mather Institute’s Age Well Study, conducted in collaboration with Northwestern University. The Age Well Study interviewed more than 8,200 residents throughout 122 Life Plan Communities around the United States.

As Florida’s leading provider of senior living communities, a Westminster Life Plan Community can be the key to unlocking a thriving and enriching aging experience. Discover the many advantages that make Life Plan Communities an ideal choice for seniors seeking a fulfilling and purposeful life.

What the study found

Beginning in 2018, the Mather Institute surveyed thousands of residents of Life Plan Communities and comparable seniors who lived outside of community settings, throughout the United States. The goal was to study the impact of the health and wellness of individuals choosing to reside at a Life Plan Community. The study found that over the last five years, the  health and wellness of Life Plan Community residents compared favorably to older adults in the community at large in five of six dimensions of wellness. Life Plan Community residents were found to:

• Have significantly more healthy behaviors
• Report that the move to a Life Plan Community had “somewhat or greatly improved” their social wellness
• Have greater emotional, social, physical, intellectual and vocational wellness
• Be significantly more satisfied with life, more optimistic, and have better perceptions of aging
• Report that they were less lonely

Most importantly, they were found to be significantly more likely to report that they felt that they had purpose in their lives.

Why does choosing to live at a Life Plan Community have such an impact on overall well-being? Here are four ways that having a plan for life can make a difference.

1. Embracing an active lifestyle

Staying healthy and active is a top priority for seniors who want to live long and purposeful lives. Life Plan Communities are thoughtfully designed to support your well-being every step of the way. Wave goodbye to mundane routines and say hello to a plethora of amenities and services that promote a vibrant lifestyle. State-of-the-art fitness centers, a tailored well-being program emphasizing wellness of mind, body and spirit, and nutritious dining options empower residents to maintain an active and healthy way of life. Trust us: You’ll experience the difference for yourself, in your overall health.

2. Nurturing your mind and spirit

Finding joy and intellectual stimulation can be one of the reasons that the “Golden Years” can be among the most exciting part of your life. Our communities go above and beyond to cultivate your emotional and intellectual well-being. You’ll find robust partnerships with local colleges and universities that encourage lifelong learning,and offer classes that even meet on campus. Immerse yourself in a world of lifelong learning programs, cultural events, and creative endeavors. The tapestry of community life and the opportunity to engage in inspiring activities can contribute to your sense of fulfillment and satisfaction. Get ready to ignite your passions, explore new horizons and experience new-found personal growth.

3. Cultivating lasting connections

Feel like having lunch with a friend or a debate over a cup of coffee? Residents who live at a Life Plan Community find that the days of longing for meaningful connections are gone. A Life Plan Community provides a warm and inclusive environment that fosters a sense of belonging. Imagine living with like-minded individuals who share your zeal for life and are eager to build lasting friendships. Engage in shared activities, participate in community events, and embrace the camaraderie that flourishes within these vibrant communities. Prepare to create cherished memories and forge bonds that stand the test of time.

4. Pursuing purposeful engagement

Retirement is not a time to relinquish your dreams and aspirations. In fact, Life Plan Communities empower you to pursue purposeful engagement in various endeavors. While many older adults experience a decline in vocational involvement, our communities are designed to reignite your passions. Whether it’s exploring part-time work, engaging in volunteer positions, or delving into lifelong learning programs, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute your skills and expertise. Embrace the chance to remain active, stimulated, and discover a renewed sense of purpose.

These four ways that a Life Plan Community can impact your life are just some of the many reasons that your personal well-being can benefit from unlocking the vibrant lifestyle of a Life Plan Community. The Mather Institute’s Age Well Study has unveiled the remarkable benefits of these communities for older adults. From physical well-being and emotional fulfillment to intellectual stimulation and social connections, Life Plan Communities offer a harmonious blend of opportunities for a rewarding and thriving aging experience.

As an organization with a Mission of inspiring older adults to live happy, healthy and purposeful lives, we invite you to embark on this incredible journey with us. Choose a Westminster Life Plan Community and gain access to life-enhancing services at your fingertips, an exciting and interesting calendar of lifestyle opportunities every day, and a supportive environment that embraces healthy aging and personal growth.

Westminster Communities of Florida is here to help you make the most of this exciting chapter in your life. Embrace new adventures, forge lifelong friendships, and create a legacy that captures the spirit of vibrant aging.

Find the community that suits you today – and welcome home!

More Self-Care tips to support taking care of YOU:

Imagine waterfall doorways (real and virtual): Another mindful technique I practice is to imagine that any doorway I walk through (whether it’s into meetings or resident rooms) is a waterfall. As I walk through it, I allow any stressful energy I’ve collected from the day to be washed off so I can walk into that next interaction clean and clear and present in the moment. When I leave, I allow the waterfall to wash the energy of that interaction off me so I can walk into the next task clean. This can also be done before pressing the button on the computer to enter a virtual meeting, as I pause and allow myself a moment of peace and calm before moving on. Doing this throughout the day means I am far less likely to gather my stress and carry it with me, so it takes less time to offload it at the end of the day before being with my loved ones, or just with myself.

Breathe: The best way I have found to soothe myself, keep myself from going to emotional extremes, pause to get more information, and simply keep my neurochemistry out of the stratosphere is to breathe. Breathing in while counting to four, holding for seven, then blowing out for eight (4-7-8 breathing) is one of the quickest ways to calm the sympathetic arousal that can lead us to fight, flee, or freeze. I can practice this while doing paperwork, sitting at a stoplight or in a meeting (just be sure not to look like you are heaving an aggrieved sigh!), cooking supper, or going to the restroom. When I am breathing, it helps me let go and accept things as they are — not in a resigned and helpless way — but with calm poise and empowered assurance.

Reminder: One of the many benefits available to us as Westminster team members is access to EAP (Employee Assistance Program) which  provides for some counseling (individual, marital, family, and group), career & vocational testing, and seminars, workshops & retreats. See your benefits guide or Human Resources Director for additional information and contact information.

Resource: 10 Self-Care Strategies for Professional Caregivers, Dr. Carla Cheatham, MA, MDiv, PhD, TRT

Are you an older adult looking to make the most out of the Memorial Day holiday weekend? Whether you’re planning a road trip with your family, or exploring new places by plane or train, there are lots of ways to enjoy the long weekend. We’ve put together a few tips on how to stay safe and make the most out of your experience. Plus, with an active, independent lifestyle at Westminster Communities of Florida, you can drop everything to travel with your friends or family for the weekend and let us worry about maintaining your home while you’re gone.

TIP #1 – PLAN AHEAD TO ENSURE A SAFE JOURNEY

Memorial Day travel can be a wonderful opportunity for seniors to explore, but safety should always come first. Plan ahead to minimize possible issues that could arise. Research the best routes and rest stops, and know the weather conditions along your route to prepare. When packing, include a first-aid kit with all essential medications, emergency supplies and important documents like identification and health insurance cards. Don’t forget snacks and drinks to stay alert, hydrated and energized throughout the day. Taking these precautions before you leave can help ensure a safe trip on Memorial Day for both you and your family!

TIP # 2 – MAKE THE MOST OUT OF YOUR MEMORIAL DAY TRAVEL

Whether you’re going on a road trip with your family or exploring a new destination by plane or train, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the holiday. Take regular breaks during a long drive or travel day giving you an opportunity to rest and recharge before continuing with your travels. While on break, stretch your legs, get some fresh air and enjoy the scenery along the way. Throughout your trip, stay flexible. Sometimes things don’t always go according to plan while traveling. If possible, try not to be too rigid with plans and be open-minded about changes in itinerary. Being flexible will help ensure that no matter what comes up during your travels, you’ll still be able to get the most out of your holiday weekend.

TIP # 3 – TAKE ADVANTAGE OF TRAVEL BENEFITS FOR SENIORS

Many companies offer discounts to those aged 55 and above. Take advantage of travel benefits and discounts to help with travel costs and shop around for the best deal. Research discounts on transportation such as flights, trains, and buses; accommodations such as hotels, motels, and rental cars; attractions such as theme parks and museums; and insurance plans. Senior organizations like AARP offer special benefits and discounts, or investigate passes for seniors, like the lifetime pass offered by the National Park Service, giving you free admission at over 2,000 national parks, monuments and other recreational areas across the country. By taking advantage of travel benefits available, seniors can look forward to a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day trip without breaking the bank.

Whether you’re planning a road trip with friends or family, taking to the skies or exploring by rail, plan ahead, stay flexible and research saving opportunities to make the most out of your Memorial Day holiday.