When Did I Get Old:Reflections on Aging Today

Friday, May 28, 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.

Food Services Leadership Named

Monday, May 24, 2010


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.

Keeping Your Brain Young

Thursday, May 13, 2010

Our brain is truly amazing. Ever heard the term “use it or lose it”? This statement is scientifically proven to be true when it relates to the human brain. It is estimated that the human brain produces over 70,000 thoughts on an average day.

Aging leads to a certain amount of brain cell loss, which can affect the ability to remember. As we age, our brains also produce less of certain chemicals that help the brain function to its best ability. This “slowing down” of normal mental function is normal, but it also can be countered, improving your brain's natural function and reducing memory loss. You can improve your brain function with games, exercise, good food and socializing. Making the right choices for your lifestyle can directly influence your brain function today and in the future.

Five Healthy Tips for Keeping Your Brain Young

1. Physical Exercise
A professor from the University of Illinois has conducted studies that prove people who exercise and live an active lifestyle have sharper brains then those who are inactive. These studies even showed those people who were in physical decline were able to sharpen their brain after starting an exercise program.

2. Mental Exercise
Fire up your brain. Researchers encourage older adults to play bridge, chess and poker. Also, crossword puzzles are a great way to stimulate your brain. Try to mix up your brain exercise games and do not play same games or puzzles over and over again.

3. Good Food
According to the Alzheimer’s Association a diet that is rich in dark vegetables and fruits and low in fat may help to protect brain cells. A good rule of thumb for your diet is making your plate as colorful as possible.

4. Laugh
Laughter has multiple benefits including stress relief, lowers blood pressure and improves brain function. Laughing stimulates both sides of the brain to enhance learning and eases muscle tension. Rent a funny movie or stay in and watch old “I Love Lucy” re-runs.

5. Socialize
Studies have shown that staying socially active with friends can improve brain function and reduce dementia. Engage with others verbally by picking up the phone and conversing for 15 minutes. Join bridge clubs, take dance lessons or go to dinner with a group of friends.

If you or someone you know is having problems with comprehending and/or expressing thoughts, please stop by your therapy department. Speech therapy evaluates and treats neurological and physical disorders and conditions relating to the voice and of spoken and written communication. Our therapy staff is available to meet with you personally to discuss the benefits of speech, physical and occupational therapy.


Reference: Nellene Teubner Plouffe
Anti-Aging Help for Memory from Brain Research in Seniors

Why We Do What We Do

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

It never fails that people who serve others seem to have a hard job and are often unappreciated. Recently, during our employee recognition program where we saluted the hard-working staff, we read just a few of the cards and letters we often receive. Those on the "front-lines" should get the credit. They are the "hands and feet of Jesus" in this place.

Dear Paula,
A little over a week ago, you were so kind to call and see how mother was doing and I never had a chance to return your call. On behalf of our family thank you so much for patiently working with us as we tried to plan for mother's care. Everyone at the Methodist Community was wonderful and such a blessing to us during mother's brief stay. Your kindness will always be remembered. Mary Jane and Carol