Senior Living News, July 2025
Legacy Reserve at Fritz Farm Newsletter
Around the world with Atlas - July 2025 - United States of America
Resident´s Birthdays
Mary Beth Veltkamp 7-3
Barbara Patrick 7-14
Boyd Richardson 7-14
Elaine Bryden 7-22
Tom Howard 7-22
Alberta Radden 7-23
Donna Mason 7-24
Judith Londene 7-25
Ron Huffman 7-26
Joe Huzl 7-28
Judy Klein7-30
Celebrating July
July 1 – National Gingersnap Day 
and National Postal Worker Day 
July 4 – Independence Day 
(plus National Barbecued Spareribs Day, because why not?)
July 7 – National Dive Bar Day 
and National Strawberry Sundae Day 
July 16 – National Glioblastoma Awareness Day, honoring those affected by this aggressive cancer
One of the most enduring symbols in the United States is the bald eagle—a majestic bird chosen in 1782 as the national emblem.
With its fierce gaze and powerful wingspan, the bald eagle represents strength, courage, and the soaring ideals of liberty that define the American identity.
Jazz Masterpieces
Alexa play "Giant Steps" from "John Coltrane"
A groundbreaking jazz composition, “Giant Steps” marked a turning point in modern improvisation. Released in 1960, the track showcases Coltrane’s fearless exploration of complex chord changes—so rapid and intricate they became known as the “Coltrane changes.” With dizzying speed and precision, he pushes the boundaries of bebop into something mathematically bold yet deeply expressive. A milestone in jazz history, it’s both a technical gauntlet and a spiritual journey.
Rock & Roll
Hall of Fame
Alexa play "White Rabbit" from "Jefferson Airplane"
A surreal trip through Lewis Carroll’s Wonderland, laced with psychedelic imagery and rising tension. It became an anthem of the counterculture and a landmark of the Summer of Love. Psychedelic rock at its finest — often used to portray the “perfect trip.” The year was 1967, and the album was Surrealistic Pillow.
Associate of the Month
Nina Castillo Martinez
Congratulations to Nina, our Employee of the Month! Her attention to detail, reliability, and positive attitude make a noticeable difference every day. We truly appreciate her dedication to keeping our spaces spotless and welcoming
Benefits of Pets for Seniors
The Benefits of Pets for Seniors: Companionship, Health, and Happiness
As people age, maintaining mental, emotional, and physical well-being becomes increasingly important. One surprising yet powerful way to enhance quality of life in later years is through pet ownership. Whether it’s a loyal dog, a gentle cat, a talkative bird, or even a calm fish, pets offer a range of benefits that can greatly enrich the lives of seniors.
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Companionship and Emotional Support
Loneliness and social isolation are common challenges among older adults, especially those who live alone or have limited contact with family and friends. Pets provide constant companionship and unconditional love, helping to alleviate feelings of loneliness and depression. The routine of caring for a pet—feeding, grooming, and spending time together—can give seniors a renewed sense of purpose and structure in their daily lives.
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Mental Health and Cognitive Benefits
Interacting with pets has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. Studies indicate that simply petting an animal can lower cortisol (a stress hormone) and increase serotonin and dopamine, which contribute to feelings of well-being. For seniors dealing with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, pets can offer comfort and help stimulate memory and recognition through daily routines and gentle engagement.
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Physical Health and Mobility
Having a pet can encourage seniors to stay more physically active. Dog owners, for example, often benefit from daily walks, which can improve cardiovascular health, maintain mobility, and reduce the risk of obesity. Even the simple act of feeding a pet or cleaning a cage can offer low-impact physical activity that supports coordination and dexterity.
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Social Interaction
Pets can serve as social bridges, making it easier for seniors to interact with others. Walking a dog in the neighborhood or visiting the vet can lead to conversations with other pet owners, helping build social connections and reduce feelings of isolation. Some communities and senior living facilities also offer pet-friendly events or group activities focused on animals.
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Choosing the Right Pet
Not every pet is suitable for every senior. Factors to consider include physical ability, living situation, lifestyle, and financial resources. Here are some pet options commonly recommended for older adults:
• Cats: Low-maintenance, independent, and affectionate.
• Small dogs: Often social and trainable, but require more active care and exercise.
• Birds: Provide entertainment and companionship with less physical demand.
• Fish: Calming to watch, easy to care for, and ideal for seniors with limited mobility.
• Adopted senior pets: Older animals tend to be calmer and are often already trained.
Welcome to the United States of America
Around the World with Atlas
The United States of America is a vast and diverse nation, shaped by a bold spirit of freedom, innovation, and cultural fusion. From towering skyscraper cities to serene national parks, from the sounds of jazz and rhythm & blues to the electrifying pulse of rock & roll, the U.S. radiates a restless energy that has left a lasting cultural impact around the globe.
More than a global superpower in terms of industrial influence and technological innovation, the United States is also a leading force in the arts and cultural development. It has played a central role in shaping the modern world as we know it. The rise of Silicon Valley and the culture surrounding today’s tech giants is the result of a long legacy of American ingenuity and creative drive.
- The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has issued over 11 million patents since its founding in 1790.
- Among the most famous early patents: the light bulb (Edison), the airplane (Wright brothers), and the telephone (Bell).
- Home to world-leading research institutions like MIT, Harvard, and Stanford.
- The Internet, GPS, and personal computers were all developed in the U.S.
- The birthplace of jazz, rock & roll, blues and hip hop.
Home Senior Care Tips
In-home senior care offers a compassionate and flexible alternative to institutional care. By focusing on preserving independence and dignity, it allows older adults to age safely and comfortably in a familiar setting. With the right planning and provider, families can ensure their loved ones receive the support they need while maintaining their quality of life.
Aging Gracefully
Aging with grace is about living authentically, caring for your whole self, and welcoming the wisdom and beauty that comes with time. It’s not about denying age, but embracing it with dignity, humor, and hope. By cultivating good habits, staying socially and mentally active, and maintaining a positive mindset, you can make your later years some of the most meaningful and joyful chapters of your life.
More Articles
Emotional Support for Aging Dads – What Senior Fathers Really Need
We talk about senior health. We talk about senior safety. But how often do we talk about senior dads and their emotional needs? The truth …
How Memorial Day Lives On in Senior Communities 2025
Share our good news:
Recipes of the Month
Southern Peach Cobbler
Ingredients:
4 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced (or use high-quality canned peaches, drained)
1 cup granulated sugar (plus a bit more for sprinkling)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
Optional: cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm touch
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Toss peaches with lemon juice and 1/2 cup sugar; set aside. In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, and the remaining sugar. Stir in milk until smooth. Pour melted butter into a baking dish—do not stir.
Pour batter over the butter, then spoon peaches and juices on top. Do not mix. Sprinkle with extra sugar (and cinnamon, if using). Bake for 40–45 minutes, until golden and bubbly. Best served warm with vanilla ice cream!
Resident of the Month
Elaine Bryden
Elaine Bryden: This month’s resident of the month is Elaine Bryen! Elaine has lived in our community since the beginning. She has a smile that lights up the whole building! Elaine can usually be found with her friends in Bernard’s Bar around 5 pm, catching up on the day’s happenings. We are so grateful for Elaine and couldn’t imagine our home without her.
Celebrities born in July:
Tom Cruise – July 3
Kevin Hart – July 6
Sofia Vergara – July 10
Will Ferrell – July 16
Selena Gomez – July 22
Daniel Radcliffe – July 23
Jennifer Lopez – July 24
Sandra Bullock – July 26
Arnold Schwarzenegger – July 30
J.K. Rowling – July
Dementia Awareness
Dementia is one of the greatest global health challenges of our time, but with increased awareness, education, and compassion, we can improve the lives of those affected and reduce the stigma surrounding it. By learning about dementia, sharing information, and advocating for those living with it, we take important steps toward a more informed and caring society.
Collaborators
Mallory McCulloch
