Jewish Community Housing Corporation of Metropolitan NJ

  Caring for a senior parent with dementia can be a challenging and emotionally taxing experience. As adult children, we find ourselves navigating uncharted waters, struggling to communicate effectively with our loved ones who are slowly losing their memory and cognitive abilities. However, understanding the right way to talk to someone with dementia can significantly improve the quality of life for both your parent and yourself. In this article, we’ll explore some valuable tips on how to communicate with a loved one suffering from dementia and introduce the memory support you can find at Lester Senior Living in Morris County, NJ. Create a Safe Space: First things first, it’s essential to set the stage for a positive conversation. Choose a quiet and familiar place, free from distractions. Remember to also sit at eye level and maintain a gentle, friendly demeanor throughout the conversation. The goal is to make your loved one feel safe and comfortable enough to express their t...

  It is generally agreed that the Halacha does not prohibit the celebration of Thanksgiving as it is a secular, not a religious holiday.  For Jews across the USA that’s good news. Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude and of course, delicious food. If you usually host Thanksgiving for your family, you know how much work it can be to prepare! It can especially be stressful if you are also a caregiver to a senior loved one. Instead of trying to take it all on by yourself, why not take the opportunity to get your senior parents more involved? Here are some tips compiled by our on-site caregivers at Lester Senior Living in Morris County, NJ . Ask Your Loved One for Input: Involve your senior parents in the very early planning stages for Thanksgiving dinner. Ask for their guidance on the menu, decorations, and any family traditions they would like to incorporate. This will not only make them feel valued, but will also ensure that their dietary needs and preferences are c...

  While they’re not the main event, side dishes are a crucial part of Thanksgiving dinner. Some may even say they look forward to side dishes more than the turkey! Rich stuffing with creamy gravy and sweet cranberry sauce are definitely staples, but there are other options that are equally delicious and more health-conscious for seniors at your Thanksgiving table. If you want a healthy side dish that will wow your guests, look no further than our za’atar roasted carrots and green beans! This recipe provided by our senior dining services team in Whippany, NJ , is also great to serve during the holidays, like Rosh Hashanah or Hanukkah (which just so happens to be right around the corner).  Ingredients for Za’atar Carrots and Green Beans:  Carrots (approx. 1 pound) Green beans (approx. 1 pound) Olive oil (¼ cup) Za’atar (2 tablespoons) Kosher salt (1 teaspoon) Pepper (½ teaspoon) Chopped parsley (optional garnish) Directions for Za’atar Carrots and Green Beans: ...