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The Terraces Upgrading Living

Aging in Place with Grace at The Terraces

Aging isn’t easy. Though some of us may experience it more gracefully and gradually than others, there’s no doubt that aging comes with a fair share of changes and challenges for us allAs  someone who watched a close family member age almost effortlessly, only to be surprised by sudden-onset dementia, I can say with certainty that aging is also unpredictableSuch uncertainty can only be met appropriately with a long-term strategy, which is precisely  what you’ll find at The Terraces, Chico’s  only age-in-place community. Located in California Park, The Terraces has allowed senior residents to live independently and transition into more involved levels of care as necessary since 1996This  approach guarantees that residents maintain their independence as long as possible and ensures their dignity with care from familiar faces throughout their journey. As most would agree, it is how  the final leg of our lives should be lived with Upgrading the Living of your seniors

 

Compare The Costs of Senior Living vs Staying at Home

How Do The Costs Of Moving Into A Quality Senior Care Community Compare With The Costs Of Staying At Home?

 

The Terrace’s senior executive director, Cliff Keene, is at the helm of this progressive approach to senior living.  Originally from Paradise, Cliff joined in his family’s footsteps, entering the senior care field after graduating from Chico State—first in a small assisted living community in Chico and later his own  community in Paradise, called Mountain Meadow Lodge. Though his property burned in the Camp Fire, every resident  was safely evacuated, and he carried the lessons from that day and his years of experience to The Terraces in Chico. 

The Terraces

The Terraces

“I moved to The Terraces and Westmont Living because I realized they were the next generation of what senior living could and should be.” Cliff said, “We have all the amenities you could imagine to help residents have an incredible life as they age. The Terraces prides itself on ensuring quality of life at every level, which drew me to join their team.” 

 

The Terraces and Westmont Living provide a three-tier system of care for residents. The first tier is Westmont of Chico formerly The Lodge, an independent living community comprised of 120 apartments. “I call it a cruise ship on land.” Cliff explains, “The Lodge provides meals, tons of social activities, housekeeping, and more for people who want to enjoy a great senior lifestyle while getting away from the complexities of managing your own house and property.” 

 

What Level of Care Do You Need?

Discover the level of care you or your family member requires. 

 

The second tier is Westmont of Chico formerly the Westmont of Chico, Chico’s newest assisted living facility. Opened six years ago, it offers 80 apartments, ranging from studios to two-bedroom apartments. Like the apartments at Westmont of Chico, all the units include everything one would need to live as independently as possible, including a full kitchen, washer and dryer, and more. In addition to the amenities available to residents at Westmont of Chico, Westmont of Chico provides grooming, dressing, medication management, mobility assistance, and many other services for those with more needs than others.  

Westmont of Chico

Westmont of Chico

The final tier is the memory care assisted living, with 28 apartments and a team dedicated to Alzheimer’s, memory, and dementia care. The Compass Rose programming allows residents to live with memory loss, not just suffer from it. 

 

Regardless of which tier a resident first joins, they can effortlessly transition from one stage to the next in the community with the help of The Terrace’s staff. All residents are surrounded by the  community’s amenities, including a robust activity schedule, mind-building educational programs, a massive swimming pool that offers aqua aerobics, managed transportation and excursions, and an on-staff nurse. “Our dining program is incredible, too!” Cliff beamed,  “It’s called Dine Your Way, and it’s a restaurant-style program where residents choose their meals rather than having meals chosen for themIt’s another level of independence that we find important.” 

 

With every amenity you could imagine, a dedicated team of caregivers, and a convenient and beautiful location on the lake at California Park that provides the at-home, sophisticated feel we all want as we age, few places can compete with what is offered at The Terraces. Visit them online at www.WestmontLiving.com or call (530) 894-5429 to schedule a tour.

Bits and Bytes e-newsletter from Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Chico State

WELCOME NEW PROGRAM DIRECTOR ANDREW LAVIN

We have some exciting news to share with you! Last July, Ann Nikolai became the program director for Professional & Continuing Education (PCE), using 75% of her time overseeing all of PCE’s other programs, and dedicating 25% of her time directly to OLLI. Now, it is time for change again. Starting this July, Ann will dedicate all of her work time to PCE.

 

With this shift in Ann’s responsibilities, we are pleased to introduce you to OLLI’s new program director Andrew Lavin, pictured with his wife Kellie Marie and their son Wesley. OLLI reports to PCE, so Andrew and Ann will continue to collaborate. “Andrew’s breadth of experience is a perfect fit for OLLI,” Ann said, “and I can’t wait to introduce him to our special community of learners.”

new program director
As the program director, Andrew will head up OLLI’s strategic direction, program development, fundraising, and marketing. He will oversee our volunteers and get to know members. “I am excited about OLLI because I’ve always been a bit of a dabbler, wanting to explore widely rather than specialize in one thing,” Andrew said. “I also truly believe that life should be about making ourselves well-rounded and well-connected people and OLLI fulfills both of those functions. I look forward to using my gifts of creativity, media production and design, and nurturing people’s diverse strengths in this role as we build the next phase of OLLI.”

Andrew was most recently a grant manager at CalRecycle. Before that, he taught at Butte College, Feather River College, and Chico State. He has a BA from Chico State, an MA from San José State University, and a PhD from UCLA. He wrote Thinking Well: A Logic and Critical Thinking Textbook released under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International license, and hosted and produced Reductio, a podcast about philosophy, ideas, and understanding.

Be sure to say hi when you see Andrew around and give him a warm welcome to OLLI!

Save the Date

Join us for a Goodbye Ann and Welcome Andrew Drop-In Reception on June 26, 3-4:30pm, in Bradley 2 at The Social Chico.

 

DISCOVER THE BEST OF HITCHCOCK THIS SPRING

More than 80 people have enrolled in Jay Sherwin’s class Danger, Suspense, and Deception: The Best of Alfred Hitchcock. Jay, pictured, has taught this and another Hitchcock class to 24 OLLI programs nationwide, with more scheduled in the fall. “I have been watching, studying and enjoying Hitchcock films for fifty years, since I was a child, and I remain fascinated by his life and his work,” Jay said. “When I moved to San Francisco in 2007, I created a walking tour of Alfred Hitchcock’s San Francisco.”

HITCHCOCK THIS SPRING

Jay led the tour for nine years, meeting thousands of Hitchcock fans from around the world. “When I left California, I was very sad to give up the tour, but then I realized that I didn’t have to!” He converted it to a virtual tour and begin offering it online to OLLI programs all over the country, including OLLI at Chico State.

“It was hard to choose just of few of Hitchcock’s best films,” Jay said of his spring class, “but I did, and I had a wonderful time developing the class content.” Jay chose four classic Hitchcock themes – themes he explored throughout his career – and he’ll be discussing two films each week that share a common theme.

“What I love most is sharing my Hitchcock obsession with others, including casual fans and serious students,” Jay said. “It’s great to introduce the films to people who haven’t seen them, and it’s great fun to discuss them with other longtime fans who appreciate them as much as I do.”

Register now for Danger, Suspense, and Deception: The Best of Alfred Hitchcock and experience Jay’s appreciation for yourself.

Jay’s class is just one of our OLLI USA classes starting this month. Some of the other classes will give you a chance to learn about paper, take a tai chi class, or catch up on AI news.

 

OVERHEARD AT OLLI

Brian Mullins, pictured, attended the OLLI Art Gallery opening reception on April 28 after a 15-year absence from OLLI. “As I got more active in cycling, I had less time for OLLI,” Brian explained. Brian and his wife Deborah spend six month a year in Chico, and lately he’s been missing the social connections and learning opportunities OLLI offers. At the gallery event, he ran into people he’d known when he was last an OLLI member, including Maureen Fredrickson, with whom he was a teacher at Chico Junior High School.

OVERHEARD AT OLLI

“It’s all coming back to me,” Brian said. “What I loved most about OLLI 15 years ago was the easy ways in which to connect with people.”

More than 50 people attended the gallery opening in Bradley 2 at The Social Chico. The artwork, 60 pieces by OLLI members, will be on display through the end of the term.

 

MEMBER BENEFIT: HAVE LUNCH AT THE SOCIAL UNTIL MAY 24

OLLI members get a special discounted lunch price at The Social Chico’s main cafeteria when you buy a 10-meal card from the cashier for $81.19. Single meals for everyone, including OLLI members, are $13.52.

The OLLI lunch hour, 11:30am-12:30pm, Monday-Friday is a great opportunity to spend time with other members and get something to eat between classes without having to go anywhere. And these prices still beat most downtown eateries!

MEMBER BENEFIT

The Social Chico’s cafeteria will be open through May 24. They will then be closed during the summer. Café 1400 in the Bradley 2 lobby will be open all summer serving Starbucks drinks and grab-and-go food items.

Debit/credit cards only. The Social Chico cannot accept cash.

 

 

LAKESIDE LEARNING AT OLLI SPONSOR THE TERRACES

With more than 130 members enrolled in his fall and winter classes on memory and aging, Westmont Living, Inc. (The Terraces of Chico) Senior Executive Director Cliff Keene has touched on a subject many of us can relate to. In his “Where Are My Keys?” class, Cliff discussed signs of normal brain aging, with examples like harder to recall names and slower to find words. He also shared symptoms of abnormal brain aging, like getting lost in familiar places, frequently repeating questions, and odd or inappropriate behavior. In addition to fielding questions, Cliff also talked about contributing factors, as well as resources for support.

Cliff’s long career in and commitment to older adult care makes OLLI’s partnership with The Terraces of Chico, pictured, a natural fit. For more than a decade, The Terraces has hosted OLLI classes, from opera, dance, and film classes to foreign languages and tai chi. These classes are also open to residents at The Terraces, creating a win-win arrangement for OLLI and for the facility. OLLI Program Director Ann Nikolai and Cliff both served together on the Chico State Interdisciplinary Center on Aging (ICOA) where Ann first met Cliff and discovered his deep commitment to older adults. “Cliff always made himself available as a resource to campus and the wider community to address issues affecting older adults, like health care, physical aging, financial security, and loneliness,” Ann said.

LAKESIDE LEARNING AT OLLI SPONSOR THE TERRACES

Now in his third year as The Terraces Executive Director, Cliff has had an opportunity to experience the OLLI presence at the facility. Becoming an OLLI sponsor last year seemed like a natural next step. As Cliff explained it, “It is great to have OLLI classes at the Terraces. There is such good energy when ongoing learning with seniors is happening here. It inspires our own residents to get involved with a topic that interests them as well.” OLLI members also love the classroom setting on the shores of California Park Lake.

 

Longtime OLLI instructor and volunteer leader Sydney Wilde has been a Terraces resident since 2022. “When my husband died two years ago, I already knew The Terraces was where I needed to be,” Sydney said. “The space is bright and airy, the apartments are comfortable, food is good, and there are more activities than any one person could possibly attend.” Shortly after Sydney moved in, she assumed the role of president of The Terraces Residents’ Council, a position formerly held by another OLLI member, Louise Cummins, who relocated to Washington State a year ago. In addition to her leadership role at The Terraces, Sydney has also continued teaching for OLLI online and, as of the new winter term, in person. “The in-person class is comprised 50/50 OLLI members and Terraces residents,” Sydney said.

 

OLLI partnerships on campus and in the community enrich programming by expanding knowledge networks and resources. For OLLI, this sponsorship also provides a financial boost that is contributing to OLLI’s post-pandemic recovery. But Cliff will tell you the partnership with OLLI is an excellent way to facilitate learning through classroom opportunities at The Social Chico and at The Terraces. “It is a pleasure to work with the OLLI program,” Cliff said. “I am happy to support the philosophy that learning should never end. I am also pleased to offer some topics that empower people as they age. There is not a better adage than ‘knowledge is power’ to adopt during the senior years of life.”

The Terraces popular Concert By The Lake series is May 18 and June 15 on the lawn at The Lodge. Music starts at 5:30. Bring chair or picnic blanket. Food, wine, and water provided.

SPRING COMMUNITY SPEAKER SERIES

Save the date for our Spring Community Speaker Series on Wednesday, May 22, 3-4pm. Community Housing Improvement Program (CHIP) President and CEO Seana O’Shaughnessy, pictured, will join us to talk about CHIP’s work.

SPRING COMMUNITY SPEAKER SERIES

Founded in 1973 as a partnership between Chico State and the City of Chico, CHIP serves Butte, Glenn, Tehama, Shasta, Sutter, Yuba, and Colusa Counties by assisting low-income and rural disadvantaged residents, seniors, and others who lack the financial resources or knowledge to improve or provide adequately for their housing. Seana embarked on her journey with CHIP three months after the Camp Fire. “I grew up in Paradise, so it means a lot to me to come full circle and be a part of this crucial recovery work,” she said.

 

Learn more about CHIP’s recovery efforts and the communities and people served at this event.

Free and open to the public!

A hybrid event – join us in Bradley 2 at The Social Chico or on Zoom. Check the OLLI website the day of the event for the Zoom link.

 

MEET A MEMBER: JOAN O’BRIEN

 

Joan O’Brien has been an OLLI member since she retired in 2017. She and her husband Shawn relocated to Chico in 2005 from San Diego, where she taught severely disabled preschoolers. Shawn took a job with Butte County Public Works and Joan worked in Yuba City for Sutter County Superintendent of Schools. “I jumped right into OLLI classes after I retired,” Joan said. “The vast array of classes now available both in person and online are amazing.”

JOAN O'BRIEN

Joan enjoys outdoor hikes and bird watching, as well as historic tours. She says she also gets a lot out of the financial classes for women. She particularly appreciates having access to classes from other OLLI programs such Rochester Institute of Technology and University of Arizona. The OLLI staff got to know Joan better when she started volunteering in the office. “I volunteer for all sorts of reasons,” she said. “I really like to help others who need it, to give me something meaningful to do, and to meet other people who share a common interest.”

Pictured: Joan’s daughters Katie and Siobhan, Joan, and Shawn, plus dog Fergus, at the 2023 Run for Food event.

 

TRAVEL AND LEARN WITH OLLI

Tropical Costa Rica, Winter ’25

Experience the paradise of lush forests and stunning waterfalls, rumbling volcanoes and endless coastlines in Costa Rica. Take in tranquil views of Arenal Volcano, visit the Cano Negro nature preserve, experience the Monteverde Cloud Forest’s lush canopy, and relax on sandy beaches. Your 9 days and 13 meals will be guided by seasoned tour guides from Collette.

Tropical Costa Rica
 

Exploring Greece and Its Islands, Spring ’25

Discover the magnificent ruins of ancient Greece and bask in the brilliance of the Mediterranean. This comprehensive journey explores Greece’s most important ancient monuments with ample time to explore on your own. Your 16 days and 25 meals will be guided by seasoned tour guides from Collette.

View the Exploring Greece and Its Islands full itinerary (pdf) and book now for discounted rates.

Exploring Greece and Its Islands

Memorials of World War II, Fall ’24

Retrace the D-Day preparation efforts and path this October. Join the OLLI members who have already signed up for this exciting tour! Book your trip and view the Memorials of WWII full itinerary (pdf).

 

CHICO FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY ANNUAL MEETING

 

OLLI instructor and local humorist Eric Miller will be the featured presenter at the Chico Friends of the Library Annual Meeting. Free and open to the public!

May 21, 6:30pm

Chico Library Conference Room, 1108 Sherman Avenue, Chico (map)

CHICO FRIENDS

 

MAY IS ASIAN AMERICAN, NATIVE HAWAIIAN, AND PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE MONTH

 

Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month began as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week in 1979 and has been an official heritage month since 1990. The month includes the heritage of Americans from a wide variety of national backgrounds.

A variety of US federal government agencies and organizations offer ways to learn about the heritage and contributions of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. This May, spend some time learning and exploring their heritage.

HERITAGE MONTH

 

OLLI CALENDAR

May 22

May 27

June 19

June 26

June 28

Spring Community Speaker Series

Memorial Day (No Classes, OLLI Closed)

Juneteenth (No Classes, OLLI Closed)

Goodbye Ann, Welcome Andrew Reception

Last Day of Spring Classes

 

Grandson of Lakeview Resident Leaves an Enduring Honor

The frontage lawn of Lakeview Senior Living has been forever transformed by the recent addition of a granite bench memorial for June Elaine Urben envisioned and donated by her grandson Brian Regan. According to her daughter Carol Marshall, “June had the ability to not live in the past, but rather to move on. In times of adversity, her attitude was ‘This too shall pass’. She had a great fondness for pets, with a series of dogs and cats and, at one time, a pet monkey. Her last pet was a Miniature Yorkie named Snert. In her later years she became legally blind and extremely hard of hearing. However, she retained her sense of humor, had a sweet smile and was as sharp as a tack. She wanted to live to be 100-years-old, and she succeeded on October 14, 2023.  Lakeview Assisted Living was her home for the last 7 years of her life, where she loved her fellow residents and staff.” The public is welcome to stop by the bench, a permanent place for rest and relaxation, at Lakeview Senior Living, 2690 NE Yacht Ave. in Lincoln City. For more information, call hearing. However, 541-994-7400 or visit www.lincolncityseniorliving.com.

Winning Salesmail Blog – Westmont of Culver City

It’s a special day when we get to “toot our own horn”! Westmont of Culver City was awarded SalesMail of the month by HeartLegacy, Take a look a picture is worth a thousand words!

https://blog.salesmail.com/blog/jan24som. According to HeartLegacy, “In this SalesMail, Tracy, a member of the Westmont team, shares an update on the construction of their community. Holding a letter board to grab the viewer’s attention, she invites the recipient to call to schedule a tour for the soon-to-be finished apartments. Following this video, Tracy and her team recorded a SalesMail of a walkthrough of the construction site, a quick tour of some finished apartments, and some highlights that the community will feature. This series of SalesMail videos is a fantastic way to fill your community before it’s even fully finished! Thank you Rhiannon and the Westmont team It’s no wonder that you are the best! Great job Westmont of Culver City.

 

Can Tech Provide Effective Help for the Elderly?

The Evolution of Help for the Elderly

The landscape of elderly care has dramatically transformed over the years, with technology playing a pivotal role. At Lakeview Senior Living in Lincoln City, OR, we’ve witnessed firsthand the positive impact of technological advancements in enhancing the lives and help for the elderly.

 

Tech Innovations: A New Era of Elderly Support 

Innovative solutions, from health-monitoring gadgets to social connectivity tools, have revolutionized how we provide help for the elderly. These technologies offer practical assistance and empower seniors to maintain independence and a high quality of life.

 

Health Monitoring and Management 

Advanced Health Monitoring Devices 

Gadgets like smartwatches and health monitors are game-changers in senior healthcare. They allow for real-time tracking of vital signs, alerting caregivers and medical professionals to potential health issues before they escalate.

 

Medication Management Applications 

Medication management can be a complex task for many seniors. Digital applications simplify this process, ensuring that medication schedules are followed accurately, reducing the risk of missed or double doses.

 

Enhancing Safety and Security 

Emergency Response Systems 

Seniors can quickly summon help in an emergency with the touch of a button. These systems provide peace of mind for the elderly and their families, knowing that assistance is readily available.

 

Smart Home Technologies 

Smart home devices, such as motion sensors and automated lighting, play a crucial role in preventing accidents at home. They create a safer living environment, especially for those with mobility or cognitive impairments.

 

Staying Connected in a Digital Age 

Social Media and Communication Platforms 

Digital platforms bridge the gap between seniors and their loved ones, facilitating easier and more frequent communication. Video calls, social networks, and instant messaging help maintain strong social ties, which are crucial for mental well-being.

 

Online Communities and Forums 

Online communities offer a space for seniors to engage with peers, share experiences, and receive support. These platforms provide a sense of belonging and an opportunity for social interaction, which is often limited in later life.

Online Communities and Forums 

Online Communities and Forums

Cognitive Health and Digital Engagement 

Brain-Training Apps and Games 

Digital tools designed to enhance cognitive abilities have shown promising results in maintaining mental sharpness. Games and applications focusing on memory, problem-solving, and attention can be fun and beneficial for cognitive health.

 

Educational Platforms and E-Learning 

Lifelong learning is now more accessible than ever. Online courses and educational platforms allow seniors to explore new interests and engage their minds, contributing to their overall mental wellness.

 

Simplifying Daily Tasks with Tech 

Smart Appliances and Assistive Devices 

Technology has made everyday tasks easier and safer for seniors. Smart appliances can be remotely controlled, reducing the need to perform physically demanding tasks. Assistive devices, like voice-activated systems, help those with limited mobility or vision to navigate their daily lives more independently.

 

Wearable Tech for Health and Fitness 

Wearable technology goes beyond just monitoring health; it encourages an active lifestyle. Fitness trackers motivate seniors to stay physically active, providing data on their progress and achievements.

 

Personalized Care Through Technology 

AI and Machine Learning in Elderly Care 

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are at the forefront of personalized elderly care. These technologies can analyze patterns in behavior and health, leading to customized care plans that cater to the unique needs of each individual.

 

Telehealth and Remote Consultations 

Telehealth services have become a boon for seniors, especially those in remote areas. Remote consultations with healthcare providers ensure continuous medical support without the need for frequent physical visits to clinics.

Our Commitment to Technological Advancement 

Incorporating Cutting-Edge Tech in Our Services 

We are committed to incorporating the latest technological innovations into our care services at Lakeview Senior Living. Our approach ensures that residents receive the best possible support while maintaining their independence and dignity.

 

Training and Support for Residents and Staff 

We understand that adapting to new technologies can be challenging. That’s why we offer comprehensive training and support for our residents and staff, ensuring everyone can benefit from these advancements.

 

Choosing the Right Technology Solutions 

Assessing Individual Needs 

Selecting the right technological solutions requires understanding the individual’s specific needs and abilities. At Lakeview Senior Living, we assist families in making informed decisions about the technologies that will most benefit their loved ones.

 

Balancing Tech and Human Touch 

While technology is crucial in enhancing elderly care, the human element remains irreplaceable. We believe in a balanced approach that combines the efficiency of technology with the warmth and compassion of human interaction.

 

Embracing a Future of Tech-Enhanced Elderly Care 

The integration of technology into elderly care opens up a world of possibilities. From health monitoring to social engagement, tech-driven solutions significantly benefit seniors. At Lakeview Senior Living, we are at the forefront of this exciting evolution, ensuring our residents enjoy a life of comfort, safety, and joy.

If you or your loved one could benefit from our tech-enhanced approach to elderly care, we invite you to reach out. Our team of experts is ready to assist you in exploring the best options for your unique needs.

Call us at 541-994-7400 to discover how technology can help for the elderly loved one.

 

Remembrance Plaque Unveiled at Westmont of Riverside

Veterans Day was especially meaningful to the residents and staff at Westmont of Riverside. The property, formerly named Air Force Village West, is one of the largest retirement communities in California and home to many retired military service members and their families. A volunteer committee of twelve residents decided to commemorate this year’s Veterans Day by unveiling a bronze plaque at the community’s entrance. “We are dedicating this plaque to all those past, present and future resident veterans, spouses, and widows in recognition of their sacrifices to our country,” said Bill Baltazar, Lt. Col. US Air Force, (Ret.), chairperson of the Veteran’s Appreciation Committee.  The event held on Veterans Day involved many people, starting with an invocation by Chaplain Don Lederer, Major, U.S. Air Force, (Ret.); the honor guard hailed from the California Military Institute under the direction of David Sibley, Master Sergeant U.S. Marine Corps, (Ret.); followed by a bugle performance of The Star Spangled Banner by Cadet Matthew Rodriguez and to end the unveiling ceremony, a rendition of God Bless America was sung by Monya Henry, Executive Director, Westmont of Riverside.  Westmont of Riverside is located at 17050 Arnold Drive, Riverside. For more information, please call 951-697-2100 or visit http://www.westmont-village.com/. Photos courtesy of Bradley Westwood, Explore Further Photography.

 

 

 

Neurofeedback Clinic Opens at Westmont of Riverside

A new Morningstar Neurofeedback Clinic is open on the campus of Westmont of Riverside located at 17050 Arnold Drive. The clinic is especially helpful for those with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) and early on-set Dementia. Neurofeedback provides numerous benefits in maintaining healthy cognition, especially for those who are struggling with memory concerns and other mental health conditions. Improved memory performance can offer a better quality of life. The clinic which is now open for appointments on Mondays and Fridays in the Health Care Center is under the direction of Connie McReynolds, Ph.D., a Licensed Psychologist and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor with more than 30 years of experience.

“Many people begin to notice a decline in mental clarity, memory or executive functioning as they age,” said Dr. McReynolds. “And the importance of cognitive health can’t be underestimated as it plays an integral role in a person’s social, cultural, physiological, and environmental background. Sadly, people often put off taking steps to improve their cognitive health. Our practice is designed to support those who may also be feeling anxious, depressed, forgetful or fearful about their future.” Dr. McReynolds has published and presented internationally on her successful outcomes in treating anxiety, depression, chronic pain, attention, concentration, focus, and trauma including PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). Dr. McReynolds is contracted with the Veteran’s Affairs/TriWest to provide services at no cost for veterans.

For more information about Neurofeedback or to make an appointment, please call 909-435-7189 or https://www.conniemcreynolds.com/

 

 

Considering Writing a Memoir? Just Ask Barbara – She wrote hers to give as 100th birthday gifts.

Time seems to fly. Before you know it, there’s a big celebration for your 100th birthday. That’s what happened to Barbara one recent afternoon as family and friends gathered for this auspicious anniversary. Instead of being the only one who received gifts; she handed out books as gifts. You see, Barbara had written a memoir about her life for her family. Filled with interesting stories and anecdotes from her early days in San Francisco, to her 31-year marriage, of her three children and all that followed. After she retired as Secretary to the President of Bellarmine High School, a prestigious Catholic college-prep school in San Jose, she decided to write and took writing classes through the Adult Education program in Santa Clara.  Barbara penned her memoir especially for her 6 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren about what life was like when she was a child. For those who may be interested in writing a family memoir, you can find tips on The American Writers Museum website or find an Adult Education class near you. The 100th birthday celebration for Barbara with the special gift books was a big hit with her family and friends.

 

 

Quick 5 Podcast with Nicholas Begane

Morgan Hill Chamber of Commerce is featuring Westmont of Morgan Hill a resort-style senior living community designed to foster a sense of belonging, independence, and overall well-being. Listen to Quick 5 Podcast on Apple podcasts or Spotify or on Audible. 

The podcast features Regional sales manager, Nicholas Begane who talks about the different lifestyle options, the incredible list of amenities, and the overall community that comes with being a resident! Listen to hear if Westmont of Morgan Hill at 1060 Cochrane Road, Morgan Hill would be a good fit for you or your loved ones. Call (408) 779-8490 or visit www.westmontliving.com to set up a tour or lunch.

Some of the highlights of the discussion:

  • Morgan Hill Times honored Westmont of Morgan Hill as “Best of 2022” and the community received the Pinnacle Customer Service Award in 2023.
  • According to Begane, “Our mission is to provide inspiring life experiences. It’s all about community – ensuring that seniors can continue to have that meaningful life experiences in our community.”
  • The building has been designed, in part through our licensing, to allow seniors to age in place from independence to assisted and memory care.  So that you don’t have to move homes.
  • When more support is needed we call this “person-centered care” versus treatment. When we notice advanced memory loss, we talk with the family to facilitate a transition to experience our Compass Rose memory care support. We find out about this person and what they enjoyed about their life: their vocations and passions to create a memory support program for them. For instance, if someone was an artist before, then we spend more artistic time as their long-term memory is still active so we tap into their former life to keep them engaged.
  • The building amenities support an inspired life from the moment you enter, a large foyer opens to a fireplace that welcomes you and is designed to foster socialization. The dining experience offers not only a great menu but a custom approach to meal times. The second-floor bar and lounge area is a wonderful place with allows for a variety of activities. A movie theater with nightly movie screenings at 6 p.m., Fitness with Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy services onsite, and Hair and Nail Salon, among other amenities. 
  • A full calendar of activities such as group Jeopardy, Nurse Talk with the Resident Services Director, and Poker and Cards night with the Maintenance Director.  Each Director likes to participate in an activity that appeals to them and helps them stay connected. It’s a passion to work in senior living.

 

 

Charles Dever is the Senior Citizen of the Year 2023 in Santa Barbara County

Westmont of Santa Barbara was recognized during Older Americans Month

The 107-yr-old Charles Dever a resident of Westmont of Santa Barbara, Westmont Living Community was recognized as Santa Barbara County’s Senior Citizen of the Year during the Older Americans Month celebration hosted by the Central Coast Commission For Senior Citizens at the end of May. This year awards were announced on ZOOM in a virtual celebration. Lt. Dever, one of the few surviving WWII veterans, celebrated his 106th birthday honored by the City of Goleta with a proclamation and joining of a group of seniors who went on a field trip hosted by Dream Flights, a non-profit established and dedicated to honoring seniors and the United States military veterans.

According to Gary Suter, Executive Director, Central Coast Commission For Senior Citizens, “Charles Dever commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others is truly inspiring. Through his tireless efforts, he has demonstrated that age is no barrier to achieving greatness and making a difference. His compassion, wisdom, and selflessness have touched the hearts of many, and his contributions have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on our community.

According to Mark Cortez, Executive Director at Westmont of Santa Barbara, “We were all tremendously excited about the honor given to Charles Dever. This prestigious recognition is a testament to his remarkable contributions, dedication, and exemplary service to our community.”

 


 

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