Jewish Community Housing Corporation of Metropolitan NJ

As the years unfold, maintaining good balance becomes a critical component of overall well-being for seniors. The adage “use it or lose it” holds particularly true when it comes to balance. Not only does balance contribute to an  active and independent senior lifestyle , but it also serves as a strong defense against the risk of potentially disastrous falls. Even if a walker is part of the equation, practicing balance exercises cannot be overlooked. Especially because balance is often taken for granted until it starts to waver. For seniors, a decline in balance can lead to a host of issues, from a loss of mobility and independence to an increased susceptibility to injuries. Fortunately, incorporating simple balance exercises into a daily routine can make a world of difference. Let’s take a closer look:  Key Balance Exercises for Seniors Heel-to-Toe Walk: Begin by placing the heel of one foot directly in front of the toes of the opposite foot with each step. T...

There’s nothing wrong with traditional holiday recipes. In fact, we’re sure a majority of you look forward to certain Hanukkah staples every year like brisket and kugel. However, there is also nothing wrong with wanting to mix it up. You know, you could always “challah” at us for a great new recipe. If you’re looking for a twist (pun intended) on a classic Hanukkah food dish, check out the JCHC’s signature pretzel challah bread. We think your guests will enjoy this reimagined challah – especially if they spend a lot of time watching America’s pastime at the ballpark.  Ingredients for 1 Loaf of Pretzel Challah Bread: Step 1 Active dry yeast or bread machine yeast (1 tbsp.)  Sugar (½ tbsp.) Lukewarm water (¼ cup) Steps 2-3 Sugar (1 ½ tbsp.) Water (1 cup) Fine sea salt (¾ tsp.) Canola oil (1/8 cup) Bread flour (3 cups) Step 8 Room temperature water (4 cups) Baking soda (1/3 cup) Coarse pretzel salt and/or sesame seeds We recommend gr...

Whether your loved one has recently moved to JCHC’s Lester Senior Living community or has been a long-time resident, don’t stress about rearranging plans for Hanukkah. One of the best things about  senior living in the Jewish tradition , is keeping all the holiday traditions you know and love going. At Lester Senior Living, we have already made plans for Hanukkah that all of our residents – and their families – are welcome to join! Hanukkah is known for 8 nights of celebrations, so here are 8 special Hanukkah activities planned for our senior residents this year. If mom or dad is new to our community, please share this list with them and encourage them to get involved in all the excitement!  #1. “Light Up The Night” Annual Hanukkah Party.  Hosted in the Weston Lobby, our annual Hanukkah party is always a big hit amongst the residents – and staff as well! This year’s party will feature live entertainment by the TKlez Band, lots of dancing, delicious Sufganiyot dough...

The cultural and societal stereotypes associated with getting older have changed dramatically in our lifetime. Older adults used to be viewed as generally less able than younger people, however our world has always been full of inspirational seniors who defy the stereotypes and embrace their independence. With the holidays approaching, there’s no time like the present to acknowledge our senior loved ones who are aging with grace and grit. It’s important to empower the seniors in our lives to follow their passions and explore new hobbies as they enjoy these precious years. If your loved one is feeling down – which happens more often than we think this time of year – share this list we compiled of seniors who are just unstoppable. More importantly, let your loved one know, if these seniors can do it –  so can they!  How to Age with Grace and Grit  Aging can be a hugely positive experience, but it’s all about having the right attitude. Many people work their whole l...

  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...