The Birches of Lehigh Valley News

When the seasonal funk hits, it can be challenging to maintain social activities or enjoy time outside. You or your loved one can take steps to keep your mood and motivation steady by integrating these tips into your daily routine:

        1. Increase lighting. While specific causes of SAD are unknown, factors such as reduced exposure to sunlight could play a role. Open the blinds              and curtains, and let the sunlight brighten your home.

        2. Stick to a schedule. A structured day can bring balance, helping to reduce stress and instilling a sense of control.

        3. Stay active and eat a healthy diet. Exercise and proper nutrition are essential to aging well. Modified workouts and incorporating super foods,                like fish, beans, and berries, into your meals will boost mood and energy levels.

        4. Get creative. Devoting some time to a creative outlet – painting, crafting, journaling, coloring – can be an excellent distraction from the dismal,              chilly weather.

        5. Socialize with others. Withdrawing from activities or having fewer people to interact with can increase social isolation. Seniors tend to be most              vulnerable, with one-fourth of adults aged 65 and older reported feeling isolated regularly. These feelings can have detrimental effects on wellness.

Senior Living Communities provide an environment that can help keep the winter blues and feelings of isolation at bay in several ways:

        1. Maintain Brightness. Senior living communities maximize daylight in common areas and residents’ rooms. Increased lighting and ambiance                  levels help boost residents’ moods and improve sleep quality.

        2. Create a fulfilling day. Consistent mealtimes and a jam-packed calendar of events allow residents to plan their day around activities they enjoy.

        3. Prioritize exercise. Most communities strive for residents to meet the recommended Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans of at least 150                minutes a week of moderate-intensity activity. A study released by Geriatric Nursing noted incredible benefits among aging adults with moderate              to high physical activity levels, including a 62-69% increased likelihood of improving mobility. To achieve this goal, many locations provide on-site              physical therapy services and group exercise classes that meet throughout the day.

       4. Wholesome meal options. Senior living communities create well-balanced meal plans using the right foods to give your body proper nutrients                without skimping on deliciousness. The dietary team can prepare a special menu for residents with restrictions.

       5. Cultivate creativity. There are several activities residents can engage in to explore their artistic abilities, from creative writing to cooking                          demonstrations and crafting. Creative expression is encouraged in senior settings because it gives residents a sense of purpose, revitalizes their              minds, and improves their quality of life.

       6. Social Engagement. Places like The Birches of Lehigh Valley intentionally prioritize social wellness. Fun activities, events, and programs are                   built into residents’ daily experiences, with booming opportunities to meet and get to know their new neighbors.

Senior living communities also provide other essential services that positively impact residents’ well-being, such as medication management and transportation. Check out a few nearby locations to see how these communities can make life-enhancing changes to your retirement lifestyle and inquire about a respite stay, which can subtly introduce the perks of senior living .

For more information on The Birches of Lehigh Valley, the area’s newest senior community offering personal care and memory care, call 484-373-4072 or email JBerry@thebirchesoflehighvalley.com.

One of the challenges is that senior living is an all-encompassing word that is used to describe a wide variety of services and amenities in many different environments. Being proactive by understanding the options and planning now allows aging adults and their families to choose the best living environment when the time is “right”.

The Birches of Lehigh Valley is a Personal Care and Memory Care community. Here are some life-changing benefits of making a move to a senior living community like The Birches of Lehigh Valley:

Safety and Security

Safety and security are often the first reason families consider a move to a senior living community. Yet, safety can mean something different for every family. Safety is knowing that caregivers are available 24/7 in the case of an emergency. Safety is knowing that loved ones live in a secure environment. Safety is knowing that communities are purposefully designed for seniors with features that minimize fall risks, including expansive hallways and handrails, no-entry walk-in showers and grab bars. For seniors with memory loss, security is especially important. Secured neighborhoods and outdoor areas to prevent wandering, while promoting independence, are life enriching.

Fewer Responsibilities

Senior Living is all about the joys of a comfortable, maintenance-free lifestyle. Within these communities, older adults do not fret over household responsibilities. Without worrying about preparing meals, mowing the lawn, making repairs, or cleaning the house, there is more time to focus on things that aren’t possible when you live alone – focusing on health, sharing laughs with friends, or pursuing new interests.

Maximize Independence and Convenience

Senior Living encourages older adults to live happier, healthier lives focusing on what they CAN do rather than what they can’t. Some of the best communities (like The Birches of Lehigh Valley) will offer on-site physician visits, rehabilitation services, pharmacy services, and provide transportation to medical appointments.

Engaging Social Life

Isolation is one of the great realities for many seniors. Studies show that social isolation increases the risk of dementia, anxiety, and depression. Within communities, seniors have the opportunity to be as social as they choose. It’s not about simply “keeping busy.” A key advantage of Senior Living is having a wealth of opportunities to create engaging days. These communities give residents plenty of ways to thrive and make meaningful connections with their peers through wellness programs and robust activity plans.

A Difference You Can Feel

Research local Senior Living options in your area. At The Birches of Lehigh Valley, you’ll find a beautiful new building and a culture of care where the focus is on living! Our personal care and memory care neighborhoods will provide as little or as much assistance as needed while creating an environment where seniors can live their best lives!

Heritage Senior Living LLC, the management company of The Birches of Lehigh Valley, has managed 18 senior living communities in three states, including Traditions of Hanover, an award-winning independent living community in Bethlehem.

The Birches of Lehigh Valley will uphold the same philosophy of care and focus on wellness, which means healthy, nutritious meals, on-site therapy services, and an abundance of activities to support many interests, so residents can continue doing what they’ve always loved to do!

In memory care, a structured day is key to supporting residents on their journey with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Our memory care methodology is based on leading dementia-care expert Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care. Our Memory Care Coordinator constructs a person-centered care plan highlighting each resident’s abilities, helping them experience happy, purposeful moments. Specially trained caregivers connect with residents in their present moment and encourage families to do the same whenever possible.

The Birches of Lehigh Valley’s mission is to create a community that residents will be excited to call home. Call 484-373-4072 or stop by 5030 Freemansburg Avenue and talk with the team. Opening fall 2023 with pre-opening specials available now.