Senior Living News,
August 2025
Legacy Ridge at Trussville
Newsletter
Around the world with Atlas - August 2025 - England
Resident's Birthdays
Jan Harrison- August 2nd
Ann Cooper- August 12th
Cora “Judy” Parker- August 20th
Shirley Williams- August 24th
Celebrating August
World Lung Cancer Day- 1st
Book Lover’s Day- 9th
Vinyl Record Day-12th
National Senior Citizens Day-21st
Events Spotlight
Wear Hawaiian Shirts & Annual Luau Party!- August 15th
Maureen O’Hara’s Birthday- August 17th
The Tudor Rose
A timeless symbol of unity, the Tudor Rose combines the red rose of Lancaster and the white rose of York—emblems of rival houses during the Wars of the Roses. When Henry VII united the two through marriage, this floral symbol became a lasting emblem of peace and the English crown.
Associate of the Month
Kia Bufford
With 15 years of experience as a dedicated Certified Nursing Assistant, Kia Bufford has built her career around compassionate care, always prioritizing dignity and respect for those she serves. Her work spans a variety of healthcare settings, and she takes pride in making a meaningful difference in the lives of others every single day.
Outside of her professional life, Kia is a proud mother of three. She enjoys gardening and traveling in her free time—two passions that keep her both grounded and inspired.
English Heart
Alexa play "Cello Song" from "Nick Drake"
Delicate, melancholic, and deeply English, featured on his debut album Five Leaves Left, “Cello Song” from 1969, captures Nick Drake’s quiet brilliance. With virtuous fingerpicked guitar, a mournful cello, and poetic lyrics, it evokes misty mornings and introspective solitude. Though underappreciated in his lifetime, Drake’s music now echoes as a timeless emblem of true British folk.
Tips for Staying Sharp at Every Age
Keeping our minds active is just as important as staying physically healthy. At Legacy Ridge Trussville, we believe that a vibrant mind leads to a fuller, more joyful life. Here are a few simple and enjoyable ways to stay mentally sharp and engaged:
1. Try Something New
Challenging yourself with new experiences can boost brain function and improve memory. Whether it’s learning a new card game, exploring a craft, or trying a new recipe, new activities stimulate different areas of the brain.
2. Read Every Day
Reading supports memory, focus, and imagination. Whether you prefer novels, magazines, or biographies, spending time with a good book each day helps keep the brain engaged.
3. Get Creative
Creative hobbies like painting, drawing, writing, or even flower arranging allow for self-expression and can help reduce stress while keeping the brain active.
4. Play Brain Games
Puzzles, word searches, trivia, and card games are excellent for mental fitness. These activities help improve focus and problem-solving skills—and they’re fun, too!
5. Stay Social
Connecting with others through conversation, group activities, or friendly visits helps maintain mental sharpness and emotional well-being. Sharing stories and laughter keeps the mind and heart healthy.
6. Enjoy Music
Listening to music or singing along to favorite tunes can lift the mood, trigger memories, and improve attention. Music is a powerful and joyful tool for brain health.
7. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation
Gentle breathing exercises, reflection, or even a quiet walk outdoors can help clear the mind and support emotional balance. Relaxation is an important part of mental well-being.
At Legacy Ridge, we encourage our residents to explore new interests, stay curious, and stay connected. A lively mind leads to a brighter day—every day.
Welcome to England
Around the World with Atlas
England’s story begins long before it was called by that name—when Celtic Britons inhabited its misty hills and Roman legions reached the edge of their empire in a land they called Britannia. Though Rome left its mark with roads, baths, and Hadrian’s Wall, the far north—home to fierce tribes and enigmatic druids—remained unconquered. After the Romans withdrew, waves of Saxon settlers shaped a new identity, giving birth to a nation where myth and history often blur.
At the heart of this early tapestry is the legend of King Arthur, the once and future king said to have united Britain with the help of Merlin the wizard, the sword Excalibur, and the noble Knights of the Round Table. Whether myth or memory, these tales reveal England’s deep-rooted fascination with destiny, honor, and the magic of storytelling—traditions that would shape its greatest literary voices.
From the poetic grandeur of Shakespeare to the epic realms of J.R.R. Tolkien and the modern wizarding world of J.K. Rowling, English literature has enchanted readers across centuries. And in music, few countries have left such a global imprint. With sounds ranging from the rebellious rock of The Rolling Stones to the dreamscapes of Pink Floyd, and the timeless genius of The Beatles and David Bowie, England’s cultural output is as powerful and enduring as its history.
Why Health Screenings and Check-Ups Matter
Staying healthy isn’t just about how you feel—it’s also about staying informed. Regular health screenings and check-ups are key to catching concerns early and staying on top of your overall well-being.
As we age, our health needs change. That’s why routine visits with your doctor are more important than ever. Screenings help monitor things like blood pressure, cholesterol, bone health, vision, hearing, and more.
Benefits of Regular Check-Ups:
- Early Detection: Catching issues early often means simpler and more effective treatment.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your numbers—like blood pressure and blood sugar—can ease anxiety.
- Prevention: Doctors can offer advice on preventing illness and managing chronic conditions.
- Personalized Care: Routine visits help your care team tailor health recommendations to your needs.
At Legacy Ridge Trussville, we support every resident’s health journey. Be sure to stay up to date with your appointments, ask questions, and speak up about how you’re feeling. Your health is your greatest asset—and we’re here to help protect it.
Memory Care Innovations: Supporting Mind and Spirit
Trussville At Legacy Ridge Trussville, we believe creativity has no age limit. One of our most beloved activities is watercolor painting—a gentle, expressive art form that brings both relaxation and joy to our residents. Watercolor allows individuals to explore color, memory, and imagination in a soothing, low-pressure way. Whether someone is an experienced artist or just discovering their creative side, painting can be a meaningful outlet for self-expression. For our Memory Care residents, art activities like watercolor have additional benefits. They can help improve focus, stimulate memory, and provide a sense of accomplishment and peace. More than just creating something beautiful, our art sessions are about connection—residents sharing stories, laughing, and simply enjoying the moment together. The final masterpieces often become treasured keepsakes for families or proudly displayed around the community. We’re proud to offer opportunities that nurture both the heart and the mind—one brushstroke at a time.
More Articles
Emotional Support for Aging Dads – What Senior Fathers Really Need
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How Memorial Day Lives On in Senior Communities 2025
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Recipe Spotlight:
English Garden Vegetable Soup
Looking for a delicious way to eat well and travel the world from your kitchen? This month, we’re spotlighting a classic dish with a healthy twist from across the pond—English Garden Vegetable Soup!
Packed with fresh produce and full of flavor, this light yet hearty soup is inspired by the English countryside and makes a perfect lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 1 small potato, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes.
Add zucchini, green beans, and potatoes. Cook for 3 more minutes.
Pour in the broth, add thyme, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
This recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal vegetables, stay nourished, and take a culinary trip to England—all from the comfort of home.
Resident of the Month
Jackie Lester
If you’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting Jackie, you know she lights up every room she enters. With a warm smile and a heart full of kindness, Jackie never meets a stranger. She’s known throughout our community for her caring nature and uplifting spirit.
Whether she’s offering a kind word, sharing a laugh, or simply enjoying the company of others, Jackie reminds us all of the power of positivity. We’re so grateful to have her as part of the Legacy Ridge family!
Collaborators
