The Connection Bernards-Ridge Edition January February 2015

PAGE 84 THE BERNARDS-RIDGE CONNECTION FEB/MARCH 2015 THE CONNECTION MAGAZINES Warren–Watchung Edition Bernards–Ridge Edition Bridgewater–Somerville Edition Visit our website www.theconnectionsnj.com to view all the Connection Magazines ON-LINE Join the Join the fun on our interactive Connections blog at www.blog.theconnectionsnj.com The Connectory ON-LINE Business Directory www.connectory.theconnectionsnj.com Follow us on Twitter at Connectionsnj Like Us on Facebook at The Connection Magazines For News & Special Offers from Our Advertisers Visit: www.theconnectionsnj.com Email: Connectionsnj@gmail.com 908-903-1799 • View the ENTIRE family of “Connection” Magazines on-line, in a user-friendly interface • Click on an advertisement for immediate access to their website • Print select pages with ads, coupons, reviews, recipes or articles • Sign up for our monthly E-blast to receive exclusive on-line offers! Do you believe in astrology? I sup- pose it is easier to do so when you are a “true” so and so. And I am a true Sagittarian...just follow where the arrow is pointed. I love to imag- ine things in a different way, often attempting to re-create my thoughts. But I do recognize that for many, change is very stressful. Although it may be difficult bend- ing, changing may be the key to aging gracefully. It isn’t trite to say that nothing stays the same. But then, how sad would it be if there was no new season, no new births, no moment when we look back or ahead and reflect or contemplate. So how does one recognize the need to modify, to adjust, to identify the changing climate of their life? I suppose the first is to look around at peers and notice what adjustments they are making. Are they moving to smaller homes, apartments, inde- pendent or assisted living facilities? Then, assess your own needs: are you able to make meals, maintain your cleanliness and health. Do you feel alone or depressed? These are guide- lines that families may want to open- ly explore with their loved one. Although the dialogue may create some tension, it is an important one to have before the aging member finds themselves in a dangerous situ- ation. Stairs, alone, can cause broken bones, leading to the need to move our loved one quickly out of their comfort level. Planning and preparation can take many forms. For some, it is a “five- year plan” or a movement into a step-down facility, changing location within as it is needed. The familiarity of the same place, even in a different part of the facility can be very com- forting. Additionally, the same staff can play an important part. Today, there are so many ways to age in place, stay in place, for the elder per- son, and if that is the desire, it is most probably attainable. It is prudent to have conversations and a practical plan before too long into the adjustment process, so things move seamlessly if dementia or other diminished capacity factors become prevalent. Just this week, my SENIOR ASSISTANT (908-883- 0469) partner, Carol, and I moved a gentleman from one room to anoth- er in his assisted living home. Although the room was a different configuration, the fact that he knew the same people, as well as the fact that he was the superstar of the day when we finished creating a beauti- ful environment for him, gave his family comfort. Getting involved in all of the myri- ad of options and opportunities avail- able for us as we move on in years facilitates bending, changing, and identifying needs, etc. As the popula- tion ages, facilities are seeking better and better options for residents. No longer a feeling of a “dead end,” the days are filled with games, tasty food, camaraderie and security. Looking at the future with the view that the glass is half full is unques- tionably an incredible advantage in embracing the coming years with a positive attitude. CHANGE CAN...CHANGE YOUR LIFE! By: Ellyn Mantell www.theconnectionsnj.com