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".