THE WARREN-WATCHUNG CONNECTION PAGE 39 NOV 2026-JAN 2027 theconnectionsnj.com SENIOR LIVING PAGE 39 y beautiful Mom-in-law celebrated her 102nd birthday on September 11, 2026, 25 years after the tragedy of 9-11. She was seventy-seven years old then, the same age I am today. What began with happy birthday wishes quickly became one of the most agonizing days in the history of our country, and across the world. Each birthday still begins with happy birthday wishes but is highlighted by the tolling of bells and reading of 3,000 names. Mom is doing wonderfully, getting great attention at Mira Vie in Warren, and if she is not the oldest resident, she is pretty close. She has been there for close to a dozen years. I spoke with her at dinnertime the day before her birthday, wanting to wish her a wonderful birthday and concerned since she had an “off day.” She was getting ready to eat dinner (a very good sign) and anxious to be with her friends (another good sign), so it was brief. Our calls are always filled with love when we speak. I reminded her we were coming to see her to celebrate together in a few days, and she was appreciative and, I believe, hungry! We said our goodbyes. Within an hour, we got a worrisome call, and although, she is doing well right now, thank goodness, we were not prepared for “the call.” In reality, when a parent is elderly, which we can declare she is, there is always that concern when the phone rings. This time, an ambulance was on its way to transport her to the hospital for an “episode.” We are so fortunate that my sisterin-law was able to see her and report back to us that she was in good spirits and, because of her age, no triage was necessary. She was immediately taken to a room, and they were working to determine what caused the episode. Now, back to “the call.” It is impossible, I believe, not to go to the dark side, regardless of the age of the patient when you receive that call. In the elderly, first thoughts are stroke or heart issues, but often urinary tract infections can cause a myriad of symptoms, including fever, disorientation, vomiting, or pain in the back or side. Additionally, vasovagal syncope, or fainting, increases the risk of falling, which can lead to serious injuries such as fractures or head trauma. Doctors usually address these common causes immediately to rule them out. Like this one, there are times when “the call” announces the necessity for immediate transport to a hospital for one’s parent. Although they may protest, doing what is best may have to take priority over appeasing them. There may be things done to help the patient recover, and their fear may cloud their judgment at present, but assessment is important for peace of mind. We may have only that one time to make the correct decision, so take a minute-and a deep breathand listen to those who have experience. I believe you will feel better long after, as the event becomes a memory, especially if your parents or family members are able to regain their healthy lifestyle once again. SENIOR CORNER That Call By Ellyn Mantell M In reality, when a parent is elderly, which we can declare she is, there is always that concern when the phone rings. This time, an ambulance was on its way to transport her to the hospital for an “episode.” Music + Healing The two words listed above represent more than just a title. These are the instruments by which Ken Knowlton lifts the spirits of those around him in need. Regardless of audience, the Berkeley Heights musician and mindfulness coach approaches every engagement with the same selfless ideals: wellness, care, and healing. Although a lifelong musician, Knowlton’s use of his craft for healing began back in 2012 while studying to become a medical chaplain at New York Presbyterian. Quickly discovering the healing power of music in clinical settings, he decided to explore this further by partnering with the nonprofit organization ‘Musicians on Call.’ For over a decade, Knowlton traveled to various hospitals across New York City to perform for sick patients and their families. After working with ‘Hospice of NJ’ in 2022 to tailor his performances to different proactive environments, he ultimately began branching out to continue crafting his music and healing experiences on his own. Today, Knowlton strives to bring the healing power of music to patients across Northern New Jersey, primarily in senior centers, elderly living communities, and extended care situations. These sessions for hire range from private parties to senior enrichment activities, to one-on-one concerts with chronic and hospice patients. We had the privilege of speaking with Knowlton about the intimate nature of his performances, the aspect of his work he says he finds most rewarding. “You’re providing such a great service,” he explained. “When it could be weeks at most, sometimes days [left]...that music could spark great catharsis for them.” As such, Knowlton aspires to make each performance as interactive as possible, often passing around song request sheets during his shows to ensure each participant feels included. In addition to providing music-only experiences, Ken also teaches mindfulness in various settings, and partners with a longevity physician to incorporate all aspects of his work into their program ‘Mindfulness, Music, & Medicine.’ To inquire about Knowlton’s music and mindfulness services or to schedule an upcoming session: KNOWLTONKEN@GMAIL.COM 717.329.5890
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