Jewish Community Housing Corporation of Metropolitan NJ

Selecting an assisted living community for your loved one is a challenging process. After all, it’s an important decision which places the care of mom or dad in the hands of people you do not know. Understandably, this is a major concern for a lot of children of senior parents. How do you know if you can trust an assisted living facility with your loved one? And more importantly, how do you know if you’re making the right choice for everyone involved? In this article, our care team at Lester Senior Living discusses four common mistakes that can easily be made while  searching for an assisted living community , and how to avoid them: Prioritizing your preferences above those of your elderly loved one.  It’s easy to get caught up in your own tastes when looking at a community and become enthusiastic about amenities your senior parent may not actually care for. Since this is where your loved one will be living, it’s important to keep them involved in the scout

Core strength exercises improve the fitness of the stomach, back, hips and pelvis. These muscles are important for improving balance and stability, as well as posture. For seniors, these exercises are a good way to help reduce risk of falls and make walking and other daily tasks much easier. Which, might we add, is key to retaining independence in your golden years. With that said, here are some easy core exercises for seniors from our  independent living coordinators at JCHC . Safety note: If you are unsure of how to do the exercises or require assistance in performing them correctly and safely, please speak to your doctor or physical therapist before attempting any new movements.   The Bridge:  This exercise focuses on the muscles in your buttocks, lower back and stomach. Start by lying flat on your back on a yoga mat with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Slowly lift your torso to create a straight line between your knees and your chest. Be carefu

Caregivers or children who are providing for senior parents, sometimes need the opportunity to take a break from the daily care of an elderly loved one. While respite care can be provided at home, there are many more benefits to having your loved one spend their respite stay in a senior living community. Especially if you and your loved one have already been toying around with the idea of moving into a senior community. Often the idea of a “short term stay” is an easier bridge for your loved one to cross, when broaching the subject of moving into a senior community. “Why don’t you just try it out Ma, while we’re on vacation for a couple weeks?” In this way, seniors will be able to experience the community first-hand without any long-term obligation. With respite care, family caregivers are relieved to know their loved one will be comfortable, entertained, and professionally cared for at all times, even more than if you hired a part time caregiver in the home. So, how do you know when

                                                                                                                                                                                                        We all can agree – there’s nothing that brings you back to life during the cold winter months like a good stew. If you’re in the mood for a wholesome beef stew recipe, perhaps even one you can serve your family during Hanukkah, the chefs at Lester Senior Living have just the right one for you. This kosher recipe is best made the day before if possible. Reheating the stew right before company comes over for Hanukkah dinner, calls for even better flavor!  Serves: 8-10. Cook Time: Approx. 2 hours Ingredients:  3 pounds boneless chuck roast, cut into 2-inch pieces 3 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tsp kosher salt 1 tablespoon freshly ground pepper 2 yellow onions, cut into 1-inch chunks 1/4 cup flour 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup red wine 3 cups kosher beef broth 1/