September
Spring Park Travelers Rest
Newsletter
Resident´s Birthdays
Lora Lee Cordes- 2nd
Louise Johnson- 20th
Helen Gladwin- 25th
Frances Porter- 26th
Celebrating September
Labor Day- 2nd
Grandparent’s Day- 8th
Oktoberfest Begins- 21st
Autumn Begins- 22nd
Events Spotlight
National Assisted Living Week
8th – 14th
Family Night
(5:30pm – 6:30pm)- 24th
Associate of the Month
Shannon Cantrell
Shannon Cantrell, a Marietta/Travelers Rest native, has always been deeply rooted in her community. After graduating from her local high school, she embraced a life filled with family, dedicating her time to her husband of 12 years, her 5 children, and 6 grandchildren. Alongside her beloved 3-year-old chihuahua, Harley, Shannon enjoys spending her free moments supporting her boys as they race motocross.
Before joining the Spring Park family in 2022, Shannon worked as a waitress for 15 years. It was during this time that she discovered her true passion for healthcare, realizing that helping others was her calling. Now, she is actively pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a focus on the medical field at Strayer University, determined to turn her dream of becoming an Executive Director for an assisted living facility into reality.
Since becoming a part of Spring Park, Shannon has demonstrated unwavering dedication to her residents, treating them with the same care and affection she has for her own family. She is always willing to step up, whether it’s lending a helping hand at the front desk, picking up extra shifts, or simply being a listening ear for both residents and coworkers alike. Shannon’s commitment, kindness, and enthusiasm for learning make her an invaluable member of the Spring Park team.
We are grateful to have her as such an essential part of our family and look forward to seeing her continue to grow and thrive in her journey.
Tips for Keeping Your Mind Active
Lifelong Learning: Explore new hobbies, skills, or online courses to keep your mind active.
Read Often: Books, magazines, and newspapers stimulate cognitive functions and offer mental relaxation.
Solve Puzzles: Engage in puzzles and games that challenge your mind and enhance problem-solving skills.
Stay Social: Join clubs, attend events, and engage in conversations for mental stimulation and emotional support.
Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness exercises and meditation into your daily routine to reduce stress and improve focus.
Keep a Journal: Regular writing keeps your brain active and provides a therapeutic outlet.
Learn a Language: Enhancing cognitive function and memory, learning a new language can be fun and rewarding.
Stay Active: Regular exercise improves brain health; simple activities like walking or dancing are beneficial.
Be Creative: Engage in creative arts like drawing or crafting to stimulate brain regions involved in problem-solving.
Stay Curious: Explore new subjects, visit museums, or attend lectures to keep your mind engaged.
Set Goals: Challenge yourself with personal goals that require mental effort for motivation and a sense of achievement.
Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3s supports brain health.
Rest Well: Ensure adequate sleep and take breaks to keep your mind sharp.
Volunteer: Giving back keeps your mind engaged and provides a sense of purpose.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Rocky Mountain National Park’s 415 square miles (265,807 acres) encompasses a spectacular range of mountain environments. From meadows found in the montane life zone to glistening alpine lakes and up to the towering mountain peaks, there is something for everyone to discover.
Understanding theImportance of Fall Prevention in Assisted Living
Preventing Falls in Our Community
Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults, particularly in assisted living communities. Seniors are more vulnerable due to factors like reduced muscle strength, balance issues, and chronic health conditions. Preventing falls is essential for maintaining their safety and well-being.
Why Fall Prevention Matters
Falls can cause serious injuries, such as fractures and head injuries, leading to long recovery periods and a reduced quality of life. The fear of falling can also decrease physical activity, further increasing fall risk.
Key Risk Factors
Medications: Some medications can increase the risk of falls by affecting blood pressure, balance, or alertness.
Environmental Hazards: Cluttered walkways, poor lighting, and uneven surfaces can cause falls.
Health Conditions: Conditions like arthritis and diabetes can affect balance and mobility.
Footwear: Ill-fitting shoes can compromise stability.
Fall Prevention Strategies
Exercise: Regular physical activity helps maintain strength, flexibility, and balance.
Medication Management: Reviewing medications with healthcare providers can help reduce dizziness and balance issues.
Home Safety: Keep living spaces clutter-free, well-lit, and equipped with handrails.
Proper Footwear: Supportive, non-slip shoes improve stability.
Vision and Hearing Checks: Regular check-ups ensure awareness of surroundings.
Family Involvement
Family members can help by staying in communication with staff, encouraging activity, and reporting changes in mobility or balance.
Our Commitment
We prioritize the health and safety of our residents by identifying fall risks, implementing prevention strategies, and conducting regular safety assessments. Together, we can create a safer living environment for everyone.
Innovations in Memory Care
1. Digital Memory Aids
– Personalized Apps: Tools like My Brain Book and Memory Lane provide customized support with reminders, daily activity suggestions, and memory exercises tailored to individual needs.
– Digital Photo Frames: These frames can display rotating photos of family and friends, helping residents recall important memories and stay connected with loved ones.
2. Virtual Reality (VR) Therapy
– Immersive Experiences: VR technology offers immersive experiences that can help stimulate memories and provide therapeutic environments, such as virtual visits to familiar places or guided relaxation exercises.
3. Robotic Companions
– Companion Robots: Devices like PARO, a therapeutic robot seal, offer comfort and engagement through interactions that mimic pet companionship, which can reduce stress and improve emotional well-being.
4. Cognitive Stimulation Programs
– Interactive Software: Programs like CogniFit and Posit Science use games and exercises designed to enhance cognitive function, offering personalized activities to stimulate memory and problem-solving skills.
5. Smart Home Technology
– Assistive Devices: Smart home devices, such as voice-activated assistants (e.g., Amazon Echo, Google Home), can help residents manage daily tasks, provide reminders, and offer a sense of independence.
6. Memory Boxes and Sensory Stations
– Personalized Memory Boxes: These boxes are filled with items that evoke personal memories and sensory experiences, such as familiar scents, textures, and mementos, to stimulate recollection and comfort.
– Sensory Stations: Areas designed with sensory activities, like textured surfaces, calming sounds, and soothing visuals, help engage residents and reduce agitation.
7. Music Therapy
– Customized Playlists: Using music that has personal significance can improve mood and memory recall. Services like Music & Memory create playlists tailored to individual preferences and history.
8. Wearable Technology
– Activity Monitors: Devices like Fitbit or Apple Watch can track physical activity and health metrics, providing data that helps caregivers understand and support residents’ needs more effectively.
9. Interactive Wall Panels
– Touch-Sensitive Displays: Wall panels with interactive features allow residents to engage with touch-based games, puzzles, and information, offering both stimulation and entertainment.
10. Adaptive Environments
– Environmental Modifications: Innovations include adjusting lighting, colors, and furniture to create environments that are both comfortable and conducive to memory care, reducing confusion and enhancing orientation.
11. Family and Caregiver Communication Tools
– Virtual Family Visits: Platforms that facilitate video calls and updates help maintain connections between residents and their families, supporting emotional well-being and reducing feelings of isolation.
12. Behavioral Analysis Tools
– Advanced Monitoring: Tools like Rendever use data analytics to track behavioral patterns and provide insights that help tailor care approaches and improve the quality of life for residents.
13. Mindfulness and Relaxation Programs
– Guided Meditation: Programs offering guided relaxation exercises and mindfulness techniques help manage stress and anxiety, fostering a sense of calm and improving cognitive function.
A Journey of Resilience and Creativity
In a quiet corner of our community lives a resident whose story exemplifies the power of resilience and creativity. Though we keep their name anonymous, their impact and spirit resonate deeply with everyone who has had the pleasure of knowing them.
This remarkable individual faced significant health challenges early in life but never allowed those obstacles to define their future. Instead, they embraced each day with a positive outlook and a determination to make the most of every moment.
One of their most cherished passions is painting. Despite physical limitations, they discovered a way to continue pursuing their art. With the help of adaptive tools and supportive staff, they transformed their love for painting into a thriving creative outlet. Their artwork, filled with vibrant colors and intricate patterns, has not only brightened their own days but also brought joy to many others in our community.
Their paintings are displayed throughout the facility, each piece telling a story of perseverance, hope, and the beauty found in everyday moments. Visitors and fellow residents often find themselves captivated by the vivid depictions of landscapes, abstract designs, and portraits that reflect the depth of their experiences and emotions.
Beyond their artistic achievements, this resident is known for their warmth and kindness. They regularly participate in group activities, offering encouragement and sharing their wisdom with others. Their ability to connect with people from all walks of life has made them a beloved member of our community.
Their story serves as a powerful reminder that, no matter the challenges we face, our spirit and creativity can shine through. Through their art and interactions, this resident continues to inspire everyone around them, proving that the heart’s capacity to create and connect remains boundless, regardless of age or circumstance.
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Recipe Spotlight:
Beignets & Berries
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup butter, room temperature
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons warm water (120° to 130°), divided
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1 package (1/4 ounce) quick-rise yeast
- 1 large egg
- 3-1/4 to 3-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- Oil for deep-fat frying
- Confectioners’ sugar
- Berries and whipped topping, optional
Directions:
Beat butter, sugar, salt and cinnamon until crumbly. Beat in 1/2 cup water and evaporated milk. In another bowl, dissolve yeast in remaining 2 tablespoons water; add to milk mixture. Beat in egg until blended.
Add 2 cups flour; mix until well blended. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough (dough will be sticky). Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover; refrigerate 4 hours or overnight.
Bring dough to room temperature. On a floured surface, roll dough into a 16×12-in. rectangle. Cut into 2-in. squares. In a deep cast-iron skillet or deep- fat fryer, heat oil to 375°. Drop beignets, a few at a time, into hot oil. Fry until golden brown, about 1 minute per side. Drain on paper towels. Dust with confectioners’ sugar. If desired, serve with assorted berries and whipped topping.
Resident of the Month
Tim Ponder
Tim Ponder was born and raised in South Carolina by his parents, Alvin and Thelia Ponder. As an only child, Tim developed a strong work ethic early in life, spending his years as a dedicated cattle farmer. From 1920 to 1960, his family also owned an ice cream manufacturer in Upstate South Carolina known as “Ponder’s Ice Cream.”
A devout man of faith, Tim was saved and baptized at Washington Baptist Church in his youth, a foundation that continues to guide him today. Over the years, Tim has enjoyed a variety of hobbies, including playing the piano with his mother, singing in his church choir, and fishing. Nowadays, he continues to enjoy reading the Bible, exercising, playing bingo, and participating in the Spring Park outings.
One of Tim’s most cherished memories is his visit to the Grand Ole Opry, where he had the unique opportunity to meet Sarah Cannon, the renowned television and radio personality famously known as “Minnie Pearl.” Another of Tim’s favorites is country music legend Hank Williams Sr., whom he deeply admires.
Tim’s rich history, strong values, and vibrant spirit make him a cherished member of our community. We are honored to celebrate him as our September Resident of the Month.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Collaborators
Lisa Hawkins
