Self-reflection gives the brain an opportunity to pause amidst the chaos, untangle and sort through observations and experiences, consider multiple possible interpretations, and create meaning. This meaning becomes learning, which can then inform future mindsets and actions.
Through a reflection practice, you can rewrite old stories that don’t serve you, examine the “why” of what happened, and explore “what’s next.” Thinking about your past can help you find out what’s holding you back and get it out of the way, or find the insights you need to stay on target toward a big goal.
To get started:
1. Instead of simply pondering these topics, write out your thoughts. “Therapeutic or expressive writing” can help reduce depression, up your creativity and even make you physically healthier.
2. Reflect regularly for the greatest benefit. Set some calendar reminders to reflect on your birthday, at the end of each quarter.
3. Be open to using reflection spontaneously when you’re stuck, when you’ve failed miserably, or when your team just accomplished something major.
Many older adults wish to “age in place,” by remaining in their homes with assistance, and to stay socially engaged with friends and family. Fortunately, new advances in technology are providing solutions to combat these challenges of isolation.
Today, seniors have the opportunity to stay connected at home and to build meaningful relationships and stay healthy and active through technology, like AI (Artificial Intelligence), robotic pets and devices like Alexa.
In this blog post, we will explore an Italian pilot program using robots to help seniors stay mentally engaged, the potential of AI chatbots to combat loneliness, and the various technology options now available to improve older adults’ lives.
Robots can promote engagement
Recently, The New York Times reported on an innovative program in Italy testing robots to help seniors stay mentally engaged. This program uses robotic pets to provide companionship and socialization opportunities for elderly people who are isolated and relieve the burden on caregivers.
The article said that Italian families, who are challenged to provide care for their loved ones at home, were eager to embrace technology after the demonstration. “You want to hug it,” said Annarita Caliumi.
Elsewhere in the world, a study conducted by Stanford University in Japan found that robot adoption could benefit Japan’s aging society. The researchers found that nursing homes in Japan that adopted robots provided better care for their residents and actually had more, not fewer, team members caring for them.
AI can help combat loneliness, provide virtual assistant services
New advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology can help combat loneliness by providing seniors with chat bots that offer companionship and meaningful conversations. A chat bot can help reduce feelings of loneliness and anxiety by providing engaging conversation topics and listening without judgment or criticism.
In addition to companionship, chat bots can also offer practical solutions for older adults as a virtual assistant. A chat bot could help seniors with banking or medical appointments, if they have mobility issues or limited transportation options. They could place orders online or book appointments over the phone. AI could afford older adults greater independence and the comforts of home, while still being able to access important services.
Robotic pets at Westminster Oaks offer residents the benefit of a furry companion
At Westminster Oaks, a Life Plan Community in Tallahassee, residents in Assisted Living and Nursing Care can enjoy the benefit of a furry companion with special robots — a Joy for All Companion Pet. These robotic companions can open and close their eyes, lift their paws, open their mouths and move their heads and bodies. They are especially appealing to residents with Alzheimer’s and dementia, and help create meaningful interactions with visiting loved ones.
Mildred Trezza, a resident at the community, gave a Joy for All companion pet to her friend who recently moved to Assisted Living. She chose a yellow tabby cat as the robotic pet, because it reminded her of a beloved pet named “Butterscotch.”
Many other technology options are now available to improve older adults’ lives
Today, with the assistance of technology, seniors and their families have many options to help stay connected, as well as stay healthy and keep their homes safe for older adults. The range of technology options that can help seniors stay active, healthy and socially connected is vast. This can help promote “aging in place,” where residents stay in their homes with the assistance of new services to support their changing needs. For example:
Smart pill boxes can be set up to open at certain times, or to notify family members when their loved one doesn’t take their medication.
A voice assistant device, like Alexa, Cortana or Siri, can help older adults access technology services using a familiar, voice-based format.
Smart home security systems and cameras can allow family members to virtually check on a parent or loved one.
Westminster Communities of Florida offers residents My W Assistant. That is a special, Alexa-enabled voice assistant package that they can use to learn about the day’s calendar of lifestyle activities, find out the dining menu and more. Because My W Assistant is powered by Alexa, it can also control their lights, thermostats and more.
In short, advances in technology have made it possible for seniors to benefit from both practical solutions such as virtual assistance tasks and enjoyable activities such as interacting with robotic pets — all from the comfort of home. With so many options available at their fingertips, it’s easy to see why seniors are eager to take advantage of these new opportunities in order to improve their quality of life while remaining safe and socially active at the same time!
To learn more about the ways that technology can enhance the lives of older adults at a Westminster community, find the community that suits you!
Many seniors face the difficult decision of where to spend their golden years. While there are many factors to consider, including cost of living and healthcare, one place stands out as an ideal location for seniors looking for an assisted living community: Southwest Florida.
Here are five reasons why Southwest Florida, with its beautiful beaches and vibrant cultural scene, is the best place to retire in an assisted living community.
Beautiful Beaches
Southwest Florida is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Anna Maria Island, located just a short drive from Bradenton, is known for its pristine white sand beaches and clear blue water. Longboat Key, another nearby island, is a popular destination for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the beach, Southwest Florida has something for everyone.
Mild Climate
One of the most appealing aspects of living in Southwest Florida is its mild climate. While the rest of the country may be dealing with snow and freezing temperatures during the winter months, residents of Southwest Florida can enjoy warm, sunny days year-round. This makes it an ideal place for seniors who want to escape harsh winter weather and enjoy a more relaxed, outdoor-oriented lifestyle.
Arts and Culture
The Sarasota area is known for its thriving arts and cultural scene. The Ringling Museum of Art, for example, features a stunning collection of art and artifacts from around the world, while the Sarasota Opera offers world-class performances throughout the year. With a wide range of museums, galleries, and cultural events, there is always something new and exciting to discover in Southwest Florida.
Excellent Healthcare
One of the most important considerations for seniors when choosing a retirement destination is access to quality healthcare. Fortunately, Southwest Florida is home to some of the best hospitals and medical facilities in the country. Residents of Westminster Manor in Bradenton, for example, have access to a range of healthcare services right on campus, including skilled nursing care with The Health Center at Westminster Manor and rehabilitation services.
Active Lifestyle
With its warm climate and abundance of outdoor activities, Southwest Florida is the perfect place for seniors who want to stay active and engaged. There are endless opportunities to stay active and healthy – including fitness classes available to residents. Plus, with a vibrant social scene and plenty of opportunities for volunteer work and community involvement, seniors in Southwest Florida can enjoy a fulfilling and enriching retirement experience.
Discover an Amazing Assisted Living Community in Bradenton
In conclusion, Westminster Manor in Bradenton, Florida is the perfect assisted living community for seniors looking to retire in Southwest Florida. With beautiful beaches, a mild climate, thriving arts and cultural scene, excellent healthcare, and endless opportunities for an active lifestyle, an exciting retirement experience is right around the corner. Visit the Westminster Manor website to learn more or schedule a tour today!
Warmer weather is finally here, which means it’s time to start thinking about spring cleaning. But did you know that spring cleaning can actually be good for your health, especially if you’re a senior?
Dust and pollen can build up in your home over the winter, causing respiratory problems. But a good spring cleaning can help clear the air and make your home smell fresher.
Changing the filters in your air conditioner and vacuum cleaner and cleaning your oven can also help improve air quality and save you money on your energy bills.
And finally, keeping your home clean and clutter-free is important for seniors, as it can help prevent falls.
So this spring, take some time to do a little extra cleaning. Your health and your wallet will thank you!
Out with the dust and pollen, in with fresh, clean air
When it comes to your health, there are many benefits to keeping your home clean – especially if you suffer from allergies or asthma. Dust and pollen can wreak havoc on your respiratory system, so it’s important to keep them under control. In addition, fresh air is always good for you, and it can also help to clear out any musty smells in your home.
One of the best ways to get rid of dust and pollen is to do a thorough spring cleaning. This means opening all the windows, letting in some fresh air, and doing a deep clean of every room in your house. Vacuum all the carpets and rugs, wash all the windows, dust all the surfaces – even those that don’t seem dusty. The more thorough you are, the better off you’ll be.
Not only will this help improve your health, but it will also save you money in the long run. Allergies and asthma can be expensive to treat, so by keeping your home clean and free of triggers, you can avoid costly doctor’s visits and medication. Plus, a clean house simply feels better. Why not make the effort to achieve it?
Cleaning your appliances saves electricity
Many people see cleaning their appliances as a chore, but it can actually be beneficial for your health and your wallet. Here’s how:
One of the most important things you can do during spring cleaning is to change the filters in your air conditioner and vacuum cleaner. This simple task can make a big difference in the efficiency of these appliances and help save you money on your electricity bill.
Another way to save money and energy is to clean your oven. Most people don’t realize how much dirt and grime builds up inside their ovens over time. A good deep cleaning will not only make it look better, but also make it run more efficiently.
While you’re at it, a few other appliances you should put a little elbow grease into: Clean the coils on your refrigerator, shake the crumbs out of your toaster, and use your manufacturer’s recommended cleaning solutions for your dishwasher and washing machine. A clean appliance does a better job and uses less electricity.
Keeping clutter around your home is unsafe for seniors and can lead to falls
A cluttered or dirty home can create trip hazards and make it difficult to move around, which can lead to falls and other injuries for seniors. In addition, a messy home can be a breeding ground for dust mites, allergens and even mold, all of which can trigger asthma or allergy attacks.
If you’re a senior or have elderly parents or grandparents, it’s important to keep your home clean and tidy to help prevent accidents and maintain good health.
Don’t miss this opportunity to tidy up those stacks of old magazines or recycle old newspapers. Give away unwanted furnishings or other items that are in the way to a local charity – some, like the Salvation Army, will even come and pick up the items you’re donating.
Stay healthier this spring with a little spring cleaning, or give up all of the home maintenance and choose maintenance-free living at a Westminster community
Spring is the perfect time to give your home a deep clean. Not only will it make your space feel fresher, but it can also improve your health as a senior. So there you have it – a few simple tips that can help improve your health and save you money.
So what are you waiting for? Get started on your spring cleaning today!
If you’re not up for the challenge of spring cleaning, there’s another option: Maintenance-free living at a Westminster community. With housekeeping and maintenance included, you’ll have more time to enjoy life without worrying about home repairs. Contact us today to learn more about our communities and how we can help you live your best life, with your plan for the future.
Want to live a long and healthy life? Then you might want to consider adopting a few of the eating habits of the world’s “Blue Zones” residents.
Blue Zones are areas of the world where people live significantly longer than average, from Sardinia, Italy, and Ikaria, Greece, to Okinawa, Japan. And while there are many factors that contribute to this longevity, their diets are definitely one of them.
So what are these longevity-promoting foods? Here are five superfoods from the Blue Zones diet that you should try eating. It may extend your life!
Nuts are delicious and rich in nutrients, healthy fats and vitamins.
Nuts are a delicious and nutritious snack that people of all ages can enjoy. They are an excellent source of healthy fats, vitamins and minerals, and have been shown to have numerous health benefits.
Studies have shown that eating nuts regularly can help to lower cholesterol, reduce the risk of heart disease and improve blood sugar control. Nuts are also a good source of protein and fiber, which can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied after eating.
There are many different types of nuts available, so you’re sure to find one that you enjoy. Some of the most popular varieties include almonds, cashews, pistachios, walnuts and pecans. So why not start incorporating some nuts into your diet today? Your body will thank you for it!
Leafy greens are rich in fiber and good for your brain health.
Leafy greens are an important part of the Blue Zones diet and have many benefits for seniors. These nutrient-rich vegetables can help improve brain health, digestion and heart health.
Fiber is an important nutrient for seniors, and leafy greens are a great source of this essential nutrient. It helps keep your digestive system functioning properly, and a diet rich in fiber can also help to lower cholesterol levels. Leafy greens are also a good source of vitamins A, C and E, which are important for brain health.
Studies have shown that leafy greens can help to improve cognitive function in seniors. One study found that participants who ate two or more daily servings of leafy greens experienced a slower rate of mental decline than those who didn’t. Another study found that participants who consumed high levels of flavonoids, which are found in leafy greens, had better cognitive function than those who consumed lower levels of flavonoids.
Eating leafy greens regularly can help to improve brain health and cognitive function in seniors. These nutrient-rich vegetables are also a good source of fiber, which is important for digestion and heart health.
Blue fruits, like blueberries, are rich in Vitamin C and low in sugar.
Blueberries aren’t just delicious. They’re also a nutritional powerhouse! These little blue fruits are packed with Vitamin C, which is important for seniors’ immune health. They’re also low in sugar, making them a great snack for seniors who are watching their blood sugar levels. And, because they’re so small, they’re easy to eat and digest. Blueberries are a great addition to any diet.
Try beans in a salad or stewed with leafy greens for a high-fiber, low-fat meal
There are many benefits to beans, both for seniors and people of all ages. They’re a great source of protein and fiber, and they’re low in fat. Beans are also packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a superfood that can help improve your health. Try them in a salad or stewed with leafy greens for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Whole grains, try replacing refined grains with whole grains to promote heart health and reduces insulin resistance.
Whole grains are an important part of the Blue Zones diet and have many health benefits for seniors. They’re a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and they help promote heart health and reduce insulin resistance.
Whole grains are packed with nutrients that are essential for seniors’ health. They’re a good source of fiber, which helps promote digestion and prevents constipation. They can also be rich in vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, selenium and B vitamins. Whole grains help promote heart health by reducing cholesterol levels and improving blood sugar control. Plus, they can help reduce insulin resistance, which is a major risk factor for Type 2 diabetes.
The health benefits of whole grains are well-established. Refined grains like white bread and white rice have been stripped of their nutrients during processing. So, it’s important to make sure you’re getting your whole grains from whole-grain foods like whole-wheat bread, brown rice, oats or quinoa.
If you’re not used to eating whole grains, it’s important to start by gradually eating more of them. Try replacing one refined-grain food with a whole-grain food each day. For example, if you usually eat white toast for breakfast, switch to whole-wheat toast or oatmeal. Or, if you typically eat white rice at lunch or dinner, switch to brown rice or quinoa. You can also add cooked barley or farro to soups and stews for extra flavor and nutrition.
Eating a diet rich in whole grains is a simple way to improve your health as a senior. So make sure you’re getting plenty of whole grains every day!
Do you know the three C’s of accountability? Each week, the team members of Westminster Communities of Florida celebrate a Culture Moment, with monthly themes led by Amanda Birch, Director of Culture and Mission Integration. Today’s Culture Moment is about the three C’s of accountability.
Managing accountability begins with our first conversation, when we request something. Your request must have clarity to generate a clear understanding of what is expected. Commitment is the key to accountability. Effective leaders know how to generate a committed promise to fulfill the request. Once the agreement is in place, you need courage to maintain accountability. More on the three C’s of accountability:
Clarity: When is it required? How will we assess whether it is complete? Who is going to do it? Why is it needed?
Commitment: Lead with commitment by staying in touch and offering help if needed. This is different from gaining compliance where you are managing every aspect to ensure completion.
Courage:This MUST HAVE trait for any leader gives us the ability to have the difficult conversations. When you are giving regular and early feedback to your team members about how they are performing, you are establishing a culture of constructive feedback. This makes those difficult conversations easier.
Do you struggle with any of the three C’s? If so, plan to grow your competencies in those areas by practicing what you have learned.
Happy International Women’s Day to all our female residents and team members! Today we celebrate them and their successes in life and in their work towards the Westminster Mission. Hear from Mary Klein, Chief Human Resources Officer, on her thoughts about being a female leader and what today means to her:
Recently, I sent one of my favorite quotes by Maya Angelou to my adult daughter, “To describe my mother would be to write about a hurricane in its perfect power.”
I love this quote because it captures the strength we have as women. I am blessed to have spent more than 45 years leading a majority female workforce, which serves a majority of women residents. While the field of senior living has continued to change and evolve over the years, one thing has remained constant: our strong, compassionate, and passionate women working tirelessly to serve those whose came before them.
I am also inspired by the Mission of service of Westminster Communities of Florida. Today, let us celebrate how our female team members can “serve from the heart and inspire older adults to enjoy happy, healthy and purposeful lives.”
On International Women’s Day, I am proud and honored to lead the Human Resources function in a female-centric workforce. Please join me in celebrating this holiday and the generations of women who have made, and will continue to make, our field and our organization successful at serving older adults.
Dr. Katz will promote organization’s medical directors at each community, and guide clinical care standards
ORLANDO, March 1, 2023 — Westminster Communities of Florida is pleased to announce that Paul Katz, M.D., has accepted the position of Enterprise Medical Director for the organization effective February 2023. We have worked with Dr. Katz since 2015, when he joined the faculty of Florida State University, and the medical staff of Westminster Oaks, a Life Plan Community in Tallahassee. Recently, he has served as the Medical Director at Westminster Oaks.
Dr. Katz has strong experience in the delivery of medical care to the older adult as well as education and research into best practices for clinical services.
As Enterprise Medical Director, Dr. Katz will support the Medical Directors at each campus. In this role, Dr. Katz will also assist the Westminster organization in the development and implementation of standards related to clinical care. He will provide guidance in the review of, and recommendations for, research proposals which would involve residents or team members of our communities.
Dr. Katz serves as a resource to the Enterprise Risk Management Committee and to the Quality Assessment and Performance Improvement (QAPI) functions for the organization, including our participation in the Seniors Quality Leap Initiative (SQLI). SQLI is a consortium of high performing providers in North America which collects and compares data to identify best practices and opportunity for improvement among the members. Westminster has participated in SQLI since 2015.
“Please join us in congratulating Dr. Katz and welcoming him to this new role in the Westminster family,” said Garry Hennis, Chief Operating Officer.
Residents from throughout Westminster Communities of Florida enjoyed outdoor festivities, games and fitness opportunities at Eckerd College in St. Petersburg
With lawn games, live music, dancing and more outdoor fun, the Sixth Westminster Games was celebrated on Friday at Eckerd College’s Go Pavilion. More than 350 residents and team members from Westminster Communities of Florida’s communities throughout Florida came to enjoy some friendly competition. At the end of the day, their objective was to have fun in the great outdoors!
The Westminster Games showcase Westminster Communities of Florida’s active lifestyle, featuring their exclusive MyWLife program for wellbeing of body, mind and soul. Residents enjoyed a fun and active experience, supported by Eckerd College students and faculty, plus live music provided by the Bus Stop Band and a special salsa dance.
“It’s amazing to be here today, after such a long hiatus,” said Garry Hennis, Chief Operating Officer. Hennis welcomed the more than 350 participants back to Eckerd College for the first time since 2020. “I want to hear you say it with me: We are Westminster!”
Chief Executive Officer Terry Rogers announced that this year’s Westminster Games set a record for attendance. “It is so good to be with you, live and in person!” Rogers said. “This is the largest Westminster Games we have ever had, with more than 350 of you. Today is going to be fun!” Then, Rogers opened the games with the ceremonial cry: “Let the games begin!”
Attendees competed as teams by community in a variety of games to celebrate active living and wellbeing for seniors, with horseshoes, ring toss, corn hole, ladder ball and croquet.
Following the games, residents enjoyed a group salsa dance, facilitated by the Westminster Resident Experience team and led by Monica Bermudez from Westminster Woods on Julington Creek.
The winning team of the Sixth Westminster Games was Westminster Woods on Julington Creek, followed by Westminster Winter Park in second place and Westminster Shores in third place. One resident, Sandy at Westminster Shores, had the highest overall score with 21 points.
“Congratulations to all the winners!” said Jim Polaski, Senior Vice President of Operations.
Congratulations to the Westminster Woods on Julington Creek team, and all the residents of Westminster Communities of Florida, for joining us in celebrating active living.
Westminster Communities of Florida, the state’s largest not-for-profit provider of active senior living, emphasizes whole-person wellbeing for its older adult residents. With communities in Bradenton, Jacksonville, Orlando, St. Augustine, St. Petersburg, Tallahassee and Winter Park, the organization serves more than 7,000 residents statewide with a lifestyle featuring active living, wellness and lifelong learning.
Managing a team is difficult, although building a high performing team is even harder. One key skill that high performing teams have in common is that they hold themselves accountable, both as individuals and as a team. Great managers should know how to build a culture of accountability. Here are eight team accountability exercises to start now:
Set clear expectations, and document them
Make everyone responsible for team meeting agendas
Assign tasks to individuals
Follow up
Adopt an “embrace mistakes” mantra– own mistakes and move on
Make sure to articulate the consequences when something doesn’t get done
