Resident, Madelyn Wright France recently published a poetry and prose book, entitled Palette. The picture on the right was taken on December 22, 2010 at the Franklin United Methodist Community where Mrs. France was signing several copies of her new book. She graciously provided a complimentary, autographed copy to the lovely library in Wesley Center.

A few days later, Madelyn was photographed (left)with four of her great grandchildren celebrating Christmas. She has a total of ten great-grandchildren.

We wish this new author and all our many accomplished residents, a very Happy New Year in 2011!

Cold weather poses danger for those with heart disease and especially for the elderly. Many people enjoy this time of year because of the white, glistening snow and icy trees. Although the scenery may be beautiful, the bitter cold weather can be harmful to your health. It is important to be aware of the threats cold weather can bring and take appropriate precautions to ensure your health and safety.

How Does Cold Weather Affect the Heart?
Physical Stress – The combination of colder temperatures and physical activity increases the workload on the heart. Sudden exertion such as shoveling snow and walking through heavy snow adds strain to the heart, thus increasing your risk of heart attack.

Hypothermia – As people age, their ability to maintain a normal internal body temperature decreases. A sudden drop in body temperature can cause your heart and nervous system to malfunction and may result in heart failure.

Blood Pressure – To conserve heat and maintain body temperature, your blood vessels constrict in cold weather. With less room for blood to move, pressure rises along with your risk of heart attack and stroke.

Heart Rate – The cold air causes you to lose body heat, in response your heart rate has to rise to not only keep your body temperature above 98 degrees but to guarantee blood flow to your brain, muscles and organs.

Oxygen –The heart demands more oxygen in cold weather because it is working harder to maintain body heat, however, cold weather causes arteries to tighten, restricting blood flow and reducing the oxygen supply to the heart.

Breathing – Breathing cold air can have an irritating effect on the airway, causing the muscle surrounding the airway to contract. With this decrease in size of the airways, it is more difficult to get the air in and out of the lungs, increasing shortness of breath. Quick shallow breathing results in oxygen deprivation and reduced strength.

Flu Activity – Flu viruses cause inflammation in the body, usually in the lungs. But they can also cause swelling in the heart itself or in the coronary arteries. In some people, this inflammation can lead to dangerous clots breaking off and causing a heart attack. British researchers have found that up to 50% of all unexpected flu deaths were due to heart disease.

Tips to Lower Your Risk for Heart Attack
Understanding your personal heart attack risk is vitally important during winter months. Taking a few precautions in the cold weather can help protect your heart.

• Diet - Eat a heart healthy diet full of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fish and lean meats.

• Exercise - Regular exercise promotes heart health. Consult with your doctor before starting a new exercise program.

• Smoking – if you smoke, try to quit.

• Flu Shot - Get a flu shot annually, this is especially recommended if your over 65 years of age.

• Physical Activity - Don’t overdo it, start your morning off slow. The cardiovascular system can adapt to slow, progressive change but it has a much more difficult time adapting to sudden change.

• Clothing - Wear layers of clothing to protect you from cold temperatures including a head scarf or hat and warm socks and gloves.

• Remain Hydrated - The body needs hydration, even in cold weather. Take breaks and drink water regularly to prevent overexertion and dehydration.

• Breathe through Nose- Wear a cold air mask or scarf over your mouth to warm up the air entering your lungs. Breathe through your nose in cold weather, your nose has various defense mechanisms to prevent impurities and excessively cold air entering your body.

If you would like to learn more about a heart-healthy lifestyle, stop by the THERAPY department. Physical and Occupational therapists can help you to develop a healthier lifestyle and reduce many of the risk factors that cause cardiac conditions. Contact your therapy department for more information on how therapy can benefit you!

Submitted By: Therapy Department
References: American Heart Association, WebMD

As we celebrate Christmas 2010, a former patient writes in remembrance of a Christmas past that he continues to be grateful for every day of his restored life. Here's his note:

"Some of the most special people in my life are the nurses and aides on the Third Floor of the Methodist Home Rehab Center! My memories and thoughts are of a truly caring, fun group who helped me through a very hard time in my life.. It has been a year since I was there but you are all on my mind every day. And I thank God that when I needed it, I ended up in your care. Have a very Merry Christmas, with so much appreciation,"

Jack C.

The Franklin United Methodist Community is hosting an Open House on Wednesday, December 22, 2010 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. The informative tours provided will also allow guests an opportunity to enjoy the beautifully decorated common areas including the greenhouse where a Winter Solstice Party will be underway during the early afternoon.

Community residents, serving on the Green Thumb Committee, invite others to celebrate this shortest day of the year with a visit to the greenhouse from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m., decked out for the holiday season with holly, flowering plants, and lots of color. Located in the Southeast corner of Wesley Center, the airy and light-filled space greenhouse is just the place to “chase away the winter blues”.

The Franklin United Methodist Community is a retirement community open to persons of all faiths and denominations and includes independent living, assisted living, a health care center, and a state-of-the-art Alzheimer’s/dementia unit. For more information or to schedule a personal tour, contact Diane Amari or Julie Mahan at (317) 736 – 7185 0r toll-free 1-87-RETIRING.

There is no magic pill that will provide us with everything we need for weight loss and good health. However, your diet can make the difference and has a direct impact on your health. Among others, the benefits to a healthy diet include: increased mental acuteness, resistance to illness & disease, higher levels of energy and a stronger immune system. Super foods are packed with multiple disease-fighting nutrients to help you stay healthy. The below foods are the Top 10 Multitasking Super Foods to include in your daily diet. Keep in mind that although these foods are healthy, portion size matters – don’t overeat!

1. Yogurt - low fat or fat free plain yogurt is higher in calcium than most other dairy products and contains multiple other nutrients, including protein and potassium.

2. Eggs – a quality protein that contains 12 vitamins and minerals, including choline, which is good for brain development and memory.

3. Nuts – high in protein, contain heart-healthy fats, and high in fiber and antioxidant content.

4. Kiwis – among the most nutritionally dense fruits and full of antioxidants. Great source of vitamin C, potassium, fiber, vitamin A and vitamin E.

5. Quinoa (keen-wa) – one of the best whole grains you can eat. An ancient grain that is high in protein & fiber, a naturally good source of iron, and has plenty of zinc, vitamin E and selenium to help control your weight and lower your risk for heart disease and diabetes.

6. Beans – are loaded with insoluble & soluble fiber, a low-fat source of protein, and contain carbohydrates, magnesium and potassium. Also, whole soybeans contain heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.

7. Salmon – high in omega-3 fatty acid content which helps to promote a healthy heart. Also, salmon is low in calories, has lots of protein, is a great source of iron and is very low in saturated fat.

8. Broccoli – is rich source of vitamin A, vitamin C, fiber, and bone-building vitamin K.

9. Sweet Potatoes – excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium and potassium.

10. Berries – packed with antioxidants, phytonutrients, low in calories, and high in water and fiber. Blueberries lead the pack because they are the best known source of antioxidants.

It is helpful to periodically review your diet as you age, especially if you have any medical needs. On your next visit to your doctor, ask him/her to assist you in creating a diet specifically for you and your individual nutritional needs.

Experts are quick to point out, the Top 10 Super Foods list by no means includes all the nutritious foods that should be part of a healthy diet. The most important part of good health is a dietary pattern that includes these foods, along with a variety of other nutritious foods and a regular exercise regimen.


Submitted By: Therapy Department
References: WebMD - Kathleen Zelman

Every Medicare and Medicaid-certified nursing home in the country is evaluated by a rating program known as the "FIVE STAR RATING". Results are available on-line at Medicare.gov, the official U.S. Government site for Medicare.

Interested individuals and their families who may need nursing care should review the site to compare nursing facilities in their town, county, or city before making a selection. The review has several components and allows you to compare "apples and apples", cutting through any marketing or sales hype that sometimes accompanies your search for help.

Franklin United Methodist Community has received the overall facility Five Star Rating - the only facility in Johnson County of south/central Indiana. According to the rating system, a rating of 5 is for "Much Above Average".

As one member of our Executive Staff commented after reviewing the area facilities listed on the website, "why would anyone choose a facility with a rating of only "1" for staffing levels?"

The holidays are a wonderful time to visit our campus, decorated beautifully for the season. Couple that opportunity with a time to view the exquisite art work by our residents and the see the talents of our greenhouse volunteers, and you have two fabulous times to enjoy activities with our residents and staff.

Join us! You'll be glad you did!

November 10, 2010

For Immediate Release Contact: Carmen Wheeler
Advancement Assistant (317) 736–1195

“Open House with an Arts and Crafts Show” Event

The Franklin United Methodist Community will host an Open House on Wednesday, November 24, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Guests are invited to tour all available lifestyle options from independent living in cottages or apartments through assisted living and, if needed, dementia or nursing care.


Visitors may also attend the “Arts and Crafts Show”, held concurrently in Fellowship Hall showcasing a wide variety of items created by Community residents. Along with canvas art, pottery, quilts, and other needlework, additional areas of creative artistry including sculpture, woodworking, carving, photography, and photo restoration will be displayed. The event is open to the general public with free parking and handicap accessible facilities.

The Franklin United Methodist Community is a continuing care retirement community on a 120-acre campus, located just ½ mile west of U.S. 31 on Highway 44 (Jefferson Street) across from Johnson Memorial Hospital in Franklin. For information, call 736-1156.

-30-

Your kind and professional care meant so much to me during the past two weeks in rehab. Every one of you was so helpful and encouraging - you were doing more than just a job!

Thank you so much.

Sincerely,

Ellen L.




Editor's Note: We received this note today from another satisfied customer who has utilized our "Rehab to Home" program.

Yesterday, Bishop Mike Coyner of the Indiana Conference of the United Methodist Church was on campus to visit with retired pastors and their spouses of the Central Indiana District.

The gathering was hosted by FUMC with board members Rev. Bob Coleman and Rev. Bert Kite facilitating the greeting, meeting, presentation by the Bishop, and fellowship time for about 50 persons.

Bishop Mike reminded the retired pastors that it is a difficult time for anyone to be in ministry and although their active days in the local church have gone before them, there is still much to do. He encouraged those in attendance to stay engaged and pray, encourage, and mentor other young persons entering and serving in Christian ministry.

Pastors and their spouses will return to the Community Center of our campus on December 6, 2010 for their annual Christmas Luncheon hosted by the District.

Stretching has many benefits. In general, stretching helps with relaxation, and much flexibility can be gained from stretching on a regular basis. Usually, stretching is done before and after exercises to warm up and soothe muscles. However, stretching for seniors is a whole other story.

As we age, our muscles become shorter and lose their elasticity. Senior citizens begin slowing down their movements and even give up their regular routines to avoid injury and falls as their bodies get weaker. In some cases, seniors become unable to walk due to disease or loss of strength. Stretching is an important part of senior’s flexibility and will help offset the effects of normal decline in the flexibility of your joints, and help you remain active and independent. It is extremely important to keep muscles strong, even when one cannot walk or move for long periods of time. This is where stretching for seniors carries the most benefits.

When the body doesn’t move, it only gets weaker. Muscles get smaller and basic movements become impossible, as well as, joint pain that some seniors suffer on a daily basis. But when stretching is added to your life, you’ll feel better and joint problems will improve. Stretching can also improve blood circulation, reduce symptoms of disease and give you an overall feeling of wellbeing. Stretching especially can benefit those suffering from Arthritis, Parkinson’s, and Multiple Sclerosis.

Stretching exercises may seem simple or not worth the time, but even with a little movement stretching for seniors can help. To learn more about a stretching program fit specifically for you, speak with a Physical Therapist. The goal of physical therapy is to restore physical ability so that you can function as independently as possible. Physical therapists understand how the body moves, and thus work with you to help improve movement. Not only do they try to strengthen weakened muscles through exercise and appropriate stretches, they teach some people how to move better by using canes and walkers. A physical therapist also may need to assess how well you are able to perform daily activities in your home. Remember, before you start a new exercise or stretching program, always consult with your physician first.


Submitted by: Therapy Department

There's nothing like a crisp fall evening for a "Court Party" and weenie roast with neighbors and friends. Residents who live on Cardinal Circle in some of the 196 independent homes on our campus, had their annual get-together to eat, visit, and enjoy one another. That's why we call our place the Community!

Make the move before winter arrives . . . where all you have to do is enjoy watching the snow, while staying warm and comfortable on our retirement campus. While it may seem a little early to be talking about the "S" word (snow), for older adults its a hassle they don't want.

So that you can see the many living options at the Franklin United Methodist Community, we are hosting several Fall Open House and Tour events and welcome your visit.

Please join us at one of these times or feel free to call and schedule a personal appointment for you and your family, if more convenient:

Thursday, September 23 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Tuesday, September 28 from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Wednesday, October 13 from 9 a.m. to Noon
Wednesday, October 27 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Don't let joint pain determine your quality of life. On Wednesday, September 22 at 2:00 p.m. in the Community's handicapped accessible Community Center, Dr. Benjamin Justice of Ortho Indy will present "When is it Time to Consult an Orthopedic Doctor?" This informal opportunity to learn about ways to overcome joint pain is provided free for our residents and the general public.

Recently, one of our staff members said that our message should be to all of those folks in Johnson County "You Don't Have to Live With Us to Rehab With Us!" She's right. We have an outstanding Rehab to Home program so that even if you don't live on our campus, you can return to your former lifestyle and accommodations wherever that may be.

For a reservation for this free event, please contact Julie Mahan at 317-736-1108 or by email, jmahan@franklinunitedmethodist.org

Keith Van Deman, Associate Executive Director and a licensed Health Facility Administrator, was recently interviewed on the Joy In Our Town program on WCLJ-TV (42.1 through a converter box or digital TV) Indianapolis Comcast 6, Bright House 15, Greenwood Comcast 3. The show airs in its original segment on August 20 at 1:00 p.m.

The broadcast will "Reair" unless preempted by network on the following schedule:
August 21 at 3:30am
August 23 at 11:30am
August 24 at 3:30am
August 26 at 3:30am and again at 12:00pm

As announced by:
Karen Ward, Public Affairs Director, Joy In Our Town
2528 US 31 South, Greenwood IN. 46143, WCLJ-TV 42.1

My brother, Bill, and I will be forever grateful to Mom's FUMC family - residents and staff. She always said, "What makes this place different is the people." AMEN! You made a difference in her life (and ours), and we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. May God continue to bless each of you as you go about your day and always remember: YOU DO MAKE A DIFFERENCE! Peace be with you and those you love.

Marjorie Ridley and Bill Carr
The Children of Alice A. Carr

(reprinted from note provided to staff)

One of the advantages of living in our retirement community in an independent home is the "no maintenance" arrangement for our residents. This means that items on your home that need to be fixed, grass cut, or snow shoveled, will be done in an effective and efficient manner, without cost or inconvenience to you.

Here's a recent example from an email we received:
We came home late in the evening and found that our garage door would not open. We notified Building Services and a maintenance man was scheduled for first thing in the morning. By 6:30 a.m the door was checked and determined a broken spring needed to be replaced. The garage door company installer was here by 8 a.m. and we were back in service by 9 a.m. Thanks to everyone for the good service!

We welcome such emails and notes as this one and appreciate the fine staff who carry out our mission "to provide a retirement experience filled with well-being and wholeness".

One of the very best ways to know whether campus retirement living is right for you or your loved one, is to visit! And, there's no better way to visit than in an informal setting of an open house to meet staff, tour facilities, and ask questions, all without any obiligation.

We invite you to attend one of our upcoming events, listed below for your convenience. Please note, some events are for specific tours and information.

Thursday, July 15th from 1-5 p.m. (General Open House-all areas)
Wednesday, July 21st from 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. (Cottage Home Tours)
Sunday, July 25th from 1-4 p.m. (Cottage Home Tours)
Tuesday, July 27th from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. (Memory Care)
Friday, July 30th from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. (Assisted Living Apartments)
Saturday, August 7th from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. (General Open House-all areas)

Our local newspaper, the Daily Journal of Johnson County, Indiana, publishes the "Hearts and Darts" section each Monday. Everyone reads it - hoping to find their name or business in the "hearts" section, but not the "darts".

Mark Seaman of Greenwood shouted out a big heart to us following his recovery and rehab to home through our Rehab Services, following a severe car accident earlier this year. Mark said in the June 21 issue, "Hearts to about a thousand people . . . (including) the many people who took care of me at Franklin United Methodist Community and the teams of physical and occupational therapists . . ."

We salute Mr. Seaman for his hard work and efforts that have allowed him to regain his independence. It has been an honor to serve him and partner together for his return.

That's the title of a recent article in the popular "Seniors Guide" of Greater Indianapolis Area. The new June-September 2010 edition was just released and the article tells about the benefits of living in an environment with a full continuum of care available, should you need it.

Check out the article by Terri L. Jones and see how Franklin United Methodist Community stands out as a leader in this kind of retirement living. We have a full page display ad on page 73.

It's great advice: Settle In and Stay Put - no one wants to move again and again!

Recently we reviewed an interesting study about person's who move into a continuing care retirement community. Our take is: the changes in their activities are very positive! See the article below and consider the results for you and your family.

How does a living environment affect a person’s quality of life? A research team chose the concept of therapeutic landscapes, which they defined as “how place, and a person’s relationship to place, is related to health and well-being” as the basis for their exploration.

STUDY: A group of 116 people who moved into the independent living section of a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) completed questionnaires before and one year after they moved. The respondents, average age 78.9 years and two-thirds women, answered questions about their engagement in 20 activities, such as housework, reading or watching TV, hobbies or gardening. About two-thirds reported being in very good or excellent health.

FINDINGS: New residents did not change their overall levels of activity, but they did change the types of activities they engaged in. Both before and after moving, reading and watching television topped the list of activities they engaged in most frequently. After moving to the CCRC, there was an increase in selected social and cultural activities, such as attending concerts and parties, watching movies and joining meetings. There was a decrease in household activities, such as grocery shopping and housekeeping. There was also a decrease in email communication. A higher score of total activity was a significant predictor of satisfaction with the community.

COMMENT: The authors suggested that one of the reasons for the changes in activity patterns was the CCRC itself, where services such as housekeeping and restaurants are available, as is easy access to social and cultural activities.

SOURCE: Journal of Cross-Cultural Gerontology, 25(2):117-132 (June 2010)

I was honored to be a guest on a panel for a WFYI-produced documentary entitled "When Did I Get Old: Reflections on Aging Today."

In April, Gary Harrison (producer), Diane Willis (moderator), and Chris Elberfield (videographer) took second place in the "Social Justice Reporting" category at the annual awards for the Indiana chapter of Society of Professional Journalists. That news was quickly followed by notification that the documentary has been accepted as part of the Council on Social Work Education's 5th Annual Gero-Ed Film Festival, which feature films that address aging/intergenerational issues and show positive images of aging. The film festival will take place in Portland, Oregon from October 14-17.

The documentary was a collaborative effort with the University of Indianapolis, Center on Aging and Community. They would welcome your request for a DVD and have also been providing community presentations showing segments of the DVD to very enthusiastic audiences.

It is with pleasure that we announce the arrival to campus today of Mindy Olson, who joins us as Assistant Director of Dietary. In addition, Cindy Jenkins, a five-year team member in our food services department, has been promoted to responsibilities also as an Assistant Director of Dietary. These two ladies will serve in these positions and team with Kitchen Manager, Linda Haag, to round out the Dietary Management Staff working with Director Jim Beck and our many dedicated staff members.

The new dietary management team is meeting today and in the days to come to clearly outline their duties and responsibilities, based upon their individual strengths and experiences. The Executive Staff is excited about these changes and has high expectations for many wonderful outcomes.

Please welcome Mindy and congratulate Cindy and Linda on recognition of their hard work with these added responsibilities and authority for the overall success of our dietary operations.