Jewish Community Housing Corporation of Metropolitan NJ

  You have probably heard the age-old saying, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away,” but has anyone ever told you that a sweet treat, like dark chocolate, could improve your health as well? Studies suggest that eating raw unprocessed cocoa, a natural rich source of flavanols, can positively increase energy levels, raise exercise stamina, and improve other measures of  heart health in inactive older adults . In fact, numerous studies have demonstrated that cocoa flavanols, found in dark chocolate, can relax the arteries, decreasing blood pressure; increase blood flow to the brain, improving memory and thinking skills; and suppress the production of stress hormones, thus decreasing stress and improving one’s mood. Now before you go to devour an entire box of chocolates, you need to be aware that most chocolate companies remove the many antioxidants that would provide any health benefit. Since most people find the flavanols very bitter and undesirable, they are removed during processing.

  Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia which primarily affects the parts of the brain that control memory, resulting in progressive and permanent neurological damage. According to the CDC, the disease currently affects more than 5 million Americans today. While research continues to bring us closer to  effective Alzheimer’s treatments , there are additional steps that those affected, their families and caregivers can take to help fight this condition now. Physical exercise:  Engaging in a healthy amount of physical activity has significant health benefits for the brain, as well as the heart, vascular system and body’s physical strength. Studies have shown that exercise can stimulate the brain’s ability to maintain older neural networks and stimulate new connections. It’s recommended that people over 65 years of age do 40 minutes a day of aerobic or non-aerobic exercise to experience the full physical and mental benefits. Mental exercise:  A healthy body is important, but so is an

  When researching assisted living communities, most of us prioritize important things such as the size of the residential apartments, services offered, quality of care and costs. However, social interaction plays a crucial role in the  quality of life of assisted living residents . Lester Senior Living in Morris County is dedicated to providing residents with the opportunity to lead a fulfilling life and here’s why: Strengthen relationships:  Having a social circle that embraces different activities out of your loved one’s comfort zone will help them to build new relationships and strengthen established ones. Your loved one’s friends in assisted living will keep them in touch, busy and enjoying life in a community setting. Mental stimulation:  Interacting socially with a range of people through different activities provides essential mental stimulation which is key to a healthy, functional brain. Studies show stimulation has been known to help reduce mental decline, lower the risk of

  If you are concerned with the safety and security of your elderly loved one, you might want to consider independent living. Independent living is ideal for individuals who can still live without assistance, but enjoy the peace of mind of having access to help with daily tasks when needed. In this article, the team at JCHC will discuss five key benefits of independent living for our senior residents at  Lester Senior Living  and  Village Apartments .  Independent Living Benefits at JCHC Communities Senior-friendly housing  – With high-quality, apartment living, seniors are able to downscale from costly, high-maintenance houses with ease. Accommodations at JCHC’s Lester Senior Living and Village Apartments are designed for easy navigation (whether a resident is mobile, using a walker or in a wheelchair), compact and free of potential hazards. Social Interaction  – Independent living encourages residents to participate in the community at a level where they are comfortable. With year-ro