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Senior Exercises to Soothe Swollen Ankles

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  Swollen ankles can be a pesky and uncomfortable issue, especially for older adults. Whether it’s due to age-related changes, prolonged sitting, or other underlying health conditions, swollen ankles can significantly impact a senior’s quality of life. Fortunately, there are simple exercises that older adults can incorporate into their daily routine to alleviate this discomfort and even improve their overall mobility. Let’s take a closer look at the list of exercises that our  senior caregivers in Morris County  put together:  Ankle Circles This gentle exercise helps improve circulation and flexibility in the ankles. Sit comfortably on a chair or on the edge of your bed. Lift one foot off the ground and rotate your ankle in a circular motion. Perform 10 clockwise circles, then switch to 10 counterclockwise circles. Repeat with the other ankle. Toe Taps Toe taps are an effective way to engage the muscles in your legs and feet while seated. Sit with your feet flat on the ground. Lift you
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Simple and Healthy Red Pepper, Pomegranate and Walnut Dip

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  Spring is a time to refresh. Not just your home, but where you reside everyday – your body. Taking the first step to improve your health starts with what you fill your body with each day. The food you choose directly impacts your health so it’s important to choose smart alternatives. If you or a loved one is a big snacker, check out our simple and healthy red pepper, pomegranate and walnut dip recipe. This dip can be stored in an ait-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days – perfect if you have enough self-control to avoid eating it all in one sitting!  Ingredients for Red Pepper, Pomegranate & Walnut Dip  3 roasted red peppers ½ cup pomegranate juice ½ cup toasted walnuts 4 pitted dates ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil  Pomegranate seeds  Coarse salt and black pepper  Toasted pita breads or chips for dipping How to Make Red Pepper, Pomegranate & Walnut Dip Soak the dates in hot water for about 10 minutes until they’re softened. A
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Making Meals More Enjoyable for Your Loved One with Dementia

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Mealtime can be a challenging experience for seniors with dementia and their caregivers. As the day progresses and the sun starts to set, older adults with dementia may experience increased confusion, agitation, and anxiety—a phenomenon known as sundowning syndrome. The difficulties that come with sundowning can make it even tougher for both the senior and their caregiver to enjoy meal times together. However, with patience, understanding, and some practical strategies, it’s possible to make meals more enjoyable for everyone involved. Here are some invaluable tips provided by caregivers from our  professional memory care program in Morris County, NJ :  Create a Comfortable Space Just like dressing your best to feel your best, it’s important to set the stage for a pleasant meal in order to actually have a pleasant meal. Create a calm and familiar environment free from distractions. Dim the lights slightly to reduce glare, turn off noisy TVs or music players, and if the weather permits,
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Beyond Bingo: Unconventional Activities at Lester Senior Living

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  While we love a good game of bingo here at Lester Senior Living, it is far from being the only extracurricular activity available to residents at our facility. At Lester, we value our people more than anything else, which means we take the time to understand their varying and complex wants and needs. Seniors in particular may need a consistent daily routine to follow, but that doesn’t mean the activities they allot time for each day have to remain the same. Variety is the spice of life and our variety of activities is a major part of what keeps our residents happy – all year round. In this article, our team of senior activity coordinators will discuss the varying and perhaps, unconventional activities offered to our  seniors in Morris County .  Weekly Shabbat Services and Torah Study One cornerstone of our community is the celebration of Jewish faith. Every week, residents gather for Shabbat services and Torah study classes, fostering a sense of connection and continuity with their J
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Senior Exercises that Get the Heart Pumping!

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  February is American Heart Month, and what better time to focus on the well-being of our seniors? One of the most exciting things they can do to improve their cardiovascular health is exercise. In this article, our activities coordinators at Lester Senior Living will discuss different senior-friendly exercises to get the heart pumping! We’ll also shed light on how an active senior living community can help keep seniors on track with their exercise regimens and ensure their safety during every workout.  Please note that before starting any exercise program, you should consult with a doctor to understand any heart-related limitations or risks you may have and adjust your exercise routine accordingly . Why Focus on Heart Health? Heart health is crucial, especially for seniors. As we age, the risk of cardiovascular issues increases. Regular exercise plays a pivotal role in maintaining a healthy heart, enhancing circulation, and boosting both physical and mental well-being. By inco
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The Arts and Memory Care

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  In the realm of memory care, where each moment can be a delicate dance between the past and the present, the power of the arts shines brightly. At Lester Senior Living in Morris County, our dedicated memory care team understands the profound impact that creative expression can have on the well-being of our residents. In this article, we’ll dive into the transformative journey that art, music, and other creative outlets pave for those navigating the intricate landscapes of memory-related challenges. Memory care is a specialized form of long-term care tailored to individuals dealing with Alzheimer’s disease , dementia, and other cognitive impairments. Lester Senior Living goes beyond conventional approaches, recognizing the unique potential that the arts hold in enhancing the quality of life for our residents. Art, in its diverse forms, becomes a therapeutic tool, a means of communication, and a source of joy for those in our care. Arts, Crafts and Music: Therapeutic Tools in Memor
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Lime in Chicken Soup: Winter Comfort Food

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  Winter is a time where we all crave extra comfort. Whether that’s curling up in a warm blanket with a good book or cooking a delicious, hearty meal. We’re here to help with the latter. It’s definitely soup season here at Lester Senior Living and our chefs love to cook up every type from the classic matzo ball soup to the more intricate lime in chicken. This particular soup is not only delectable, but also freezes well. Meaning, it can be enjoyed again later with minimal preparation effort – perfect for a lazy, snow day.  Ingredients for Lime in Chicken Soup:  1 whole chicken 4 limes cut in half 2 large potatoes chopped into 1/2 inch cubes 2 medium onions chopped into 1/2 inch cubes 2 carrots chopped into 1/2 inch cubes 4 stalks celery chopped into 1/2 inch cubes 3 small zucchini chopped into 1/2 inch cubes 1 turnip chopped into 1/2 inch cubes 1/4 lb of green beans cut in half 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (or more, depending on your preference) 1/4 cup chopped fl
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