Senior Living News, June 2025

The Goldton at Venice Newsletter

108 Bella Verde Blvd. | Nokomis, FL 34275

June 1st 2025

Around the world with Atlas - June 2025 - Perú

Resident's Birthdays

June V 6/4
Suzette L 6/20
Joe M 6/22
Carolyn S 6/26
John D 6/30

Jane N 6/8

Marilyn R 5/12

Celebrating June

National Cheese Day 6/4
National Doughnut Day 6/6
Flag Day 6/14
Father’s Day 6/15
Fudge Day 6/16
Sushi Day 17
Picnic lunch day 6/18
Martini Day 6/19
American Eagle Day 6/20
Pink Day 6/23
Sunglasses Day 6/27

Family Night 6/29

Events Spotlights

New Resident Mixer 6/25
June Birthday Celebration 6/19
Town Hall 6/9
Family Night 6/29

Memory Care | Resident of the Month

Maureen Cooper

Maureen Cooper Formerly Lived in assisted living here at the Goldton and has many friends. She has 3 boys and loves dogs. Maureen Enjoys getting her hair done, she says that is her favorite part of her week! There are Many things to Love About Maureen, She always has a big smile on her face and loves to laugh.

While the Inca Empire is the most renowned civilization of Peru, it was preceded by a rich array of cultures that laid the groundwork for its eventual rise

Sounds of Peru

Alexa play "If I could" from "Simon & Garfunkel"

“El Cóndor Pasa” is so iconic that, in 2004, Peru declared it part of the nation’s cultural heritage. The original version is an orchestral piece from the 1913 zarzuela El Cóndor Pasa, composed by Peruvian musician Daniel Alomía Robles and inspired by traditional Andean music.

The most internationally recognized version is “El Cóndor Pasa (If I Could)” by Simon & Garfunkel, released in 1970 on their album Bridge over Troubled Water. Among hundreds of officially recognized adaptations, this rendition introduced the song to a global audience.

The Desk of the Director

Dear Residents,
Can you believe how quickly time flies? It feels like just yesterday we were welcoming a new season, and here we are again—another month full of chances to enjoy, connect, and try something new.

Life around here is always better when we’re sharing it together. Whether it’s chatting over a cup of coffee, playing a few rounds of cards, or just taking a walk and soaking up some sunshine, every little moment counts.

Keep Moving, Keep Smiling
Staying active doesn’t have to mean running a marathon—unless you really want to! A short stroll, chair exercises, or even dancing to your favorite tunes in your room can lift your spirits and help you feel good. Join a class or just bring a friend along and make it fun. Merideth’s class is growing and it is wonderful to see!!

Make New Friends (and Keep the Old)
One of the best parts of living here is the people. If you see a new face in the dining room or at an activity, don’t be shy—say hello! A simple smile can go a long way. And of course, we all love catching up with our long-time neighbors, too.

Try Something Different
Have you ever wanted to learn to paint? Or maybe join a game you’ve never played before? This is your sign to give it a shot. There’s always something going on—from crafts and cooking demos to sing-alongs and movie nights. Let’s make it a goal to try one new thing this month.

We’re Listening
Your thoughts, stories, and ideas are what make this community feel like home. Got a suggestion or something you’d like to see happen? Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’d love to hear from you. Merideth is always looking for new and exciting things to do.

Before I close, I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you from the bottom of my heart. After the passing of my husband, the outpouring of kindness, grace, and love from this community has been truly overwhelming. Your hugs, your words, your quiet presence—it all meant more than I can say.
This isn’t just a place we live. It’s a family. And I’m so grateful to be part of it.

With love and appreciation,
Laura Blakeman, Executive Director

Welcome to Peru
Around the World with Atlas

Land of Ancient Echoes and Living Wonders
Peru is a place where time weaves a magnificent tapestry of past and present. From the dizzying heights of the Andes to the depths of the Amazon rainforest, Peru is a country of contrasts—mystical, colorful, and vibrantly alive. It’s home to ancient civilizations, awe-inspiring landscapes, and cultural traditions that still pulse with life today.

Whether you’re drawn by the lost city of Machu Picchu, the flavors of ceviche, or the haunting sound of Andean flutes, Peru invites you to explore a land where legends walk beside everyday life.

🦙 Amazing Facts about Peru
Machu Picchu Is One of the New Seven Wonders of the World
Built in the 15th century by the Incas and rediscovered in 1911, this mountaintop citadel is Peru’s most iconic site—and a breathtaking symbol of human ingenuity.

Hydration for Health

The Impact of Pet Ownership on Senior Happiness and Health
Pets have a special way of bringing joy and companionship into our lives, and for seniors, the benefits of pet ownership can be particularly impactful.

Pet ownership can have a profound impact on the well-being of seniors, providing them with companionship, emotional support, and even health benefits. The Senior Friendship Center in Sarasota, Florida, recognizes the importance of pets in the lives of the elderly.

Interacting with pets can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation commonly experienced by seniors. Studies have shown that spending time with animals can lower blood pressure, decrease stress levels, and even boost immunity. The unconditional love and loyalty of a pet can greatly improve the emotional well-being of seniors, offering a sense of purpose and meaning in their lives.

Engaging in activities like walking a dog or playing with a cat promotes physical exercise, which is crucial for maintaining mobility and overall health in older adults.

These furry friends not only offer unconditional love but also serve as loyal companions, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation that can often accompany aging. For many seniors, pets become like family members, offering a sense of purpose and routine to their daily lives.

The presence of a pet can boost mood, decrease stress levels, and even improve physical health through activities like walking a dog or playing with a cat. This bond with a furry companion fosters a sense of connection and belonging, creating a positive impact on seniors’ mental and emotional wellness.

Independent Living | Resident of the Month

Hanna Koeniger

Born in Germany, it was just her parents and brother. She has a unique set of events that lead her to marring a US military serviceman. You must ask Hanna and Lou about that one! After they were married in Germany they returned to the US, and had their perfect church wedding. They went on to raise 6 children together 5 sons and 1 daughter. The also have 11 grand kids and 5 great-grandkid.

Hanna took care of things both inside and outside the home. She found that she really enjoys building things outside. Besides managing her family, she has over 25 years of volunteer work as a peer counselor and at church. She also spent 10 years volunteering with the Rescue Squad, as she is an EMT.

Some of Hanna’s favorite memories are with her children tending to the garden. She also enjoys working out and exercise, knitting and giving her dog lots of love and snuggles.

Hanna’s advice “Tell yourself everyday that it’s going to be a great day” “and you must BELIEVE IT”

MARK

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

May 20, 2025 No Comments

Why This Day Matters Deeply in Senior Living Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, is a national day of remembrance honoring U.S. ...

Recipe of the Month

Iconic Peruvian Ceviche

Fresh, zesty, and effortlessly elegant, this is Peru on a plate.

Ingredients (serves 2):

250g fresh firm white fish (sea bass, corvina, or halibut), diced
Juice of 4–5 limes
½ red onion, very thinly sliced
1 small red chili or ají limo, sliced
Salt to taste
A few cilantro leaves, chopped
Optional: cooked sweet potato and corn (for the traditional side)

Directions:
Combine fish, lime juice, salt, and chili in a bowl. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes until the fish turns opaque (“cooked” by the citrus). Add red onion and cilantro just before serving. Serve cold, with sweet potato and Peruvian corn if available.

Associate of the Month

Erin Weltford

Erin is 18 years old and has graduated from high school this year! Congratulation class of 2025. Erin plans on taking a year off to travel to many of her bucket list destinations. Don’t worry, Erin will continue to work at the Goldton until she has enlisted into the Coast Guard. She has committed to 4 years as well as staying in the reserves. Did you know that through high school Erin has been in ROTC.

Erin loves her work family, the closeness of her peers and all the residents she serves. In her spare time Erin performs Arial Silks, you’ll have to ask her all about that!

Assisted Living | Resident of the Month

Pat Givens

Born and Raised in West Virgina, Pat was the first of his family to graduate college. He attended West Virgina Wesleyan, where he earned a degree in Engineering. However, he began working in real-estate and eventually stated his own company in real-estate inspection and appraisals.
Pat and Judt have been marries for 61 years and share 3 children together along with 7 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.
Pat wants you to know he is a real jokester, he really should have gone into stand-up. Pat also enjoys golf and reading books on adventures, Country Western music and line dancing.
Some of he favorite times have been while he has traveled with his wife Judy and have been on Mutiple cruises.

Pat wanted to leave you with this poem:

The Spell of the Yukon by Robert W Slice