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A special section of

THE TIMES

RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES

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The Times - Retirement Communities

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New Availability!

Independent Living Apartments St. Margaret’s now has apartments available in a secure, hospital-based living center with access to emergency services on-site. • Daily mass • One meal a day provided • Group exercises • Meet new people like you • Creativity classes • Hospital staff on call

For more information, contact

(815) 664-1434 aboutsmh.org/livingcenter

Care Built on Our Community from People You Know & Trust.

600 East First Street | Spring Valley SM-CL1992791

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How to stay mentally sharp after retirement If asked to describe how they envision retirement, many professionals might reference travel, time spent with grandchildren and various recreational pursuits. Few, if any, would mention cognitive decline. However, cognitive decline poses a significant threat to aging men and women, especially during retirement. Researchers have long since recognized that certain cognitive abilities begin to decline with advanced age, even among elderly individuals who are healthy. However, despite that decline, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that dementias like Alzheimer’s disease are not an inevitable part of aging. In fact, the CDC estimates that as many as 40 percent of dementia cases may be prevented or delayed. In addition, the CDC reports that it’s not uncommon for routine memory, skills and knowledge

to stabilize or even improve as the brain ages. That’s good news for retirees who want to spend their postwork life pursuing their passions and hobbies. Individuals also can embrace some strategies to stay mentally sharp in retirement. • Consider delaying retirement. Even if early retirement is a dream, it might be better to work a little longer than you had planned. A 2021 study published in the journal SSM Population Health found that postponed retirement is beneficial to cognitive function for all genders, races/ethnicities, educational levels, and professional status. The study reported that individuals who waited until age 67 to retire experienced less cognitive decline than those who retired prior to turning 67. • Make exercise part of your retirement routine. A lack of structure may seem enticing to individuals who have spent de-

cades working. However, many retirees find that little structure loses it appeal quickly after calling it quits. When creating a new routine in retirement, include regular exercise. According to the Mayo Clinic, studies indicate that people who are physically active are less likely to experience a decline in their mental function. So daily exercise not only gives retirees something to do, but also ben-

efits their brains. • Enroll in an adult education course. A 2014 study published in the journal JAMA Neurology examined the association between lifetime intellectual enrichment and cognitive decline in the older population. The study’s authors found that higher levels of late-life cognitive activity were associated with higher levels of cognition. TF226045

We Are Your Medicare Supplement Specialists Turning 65? It’s a big deal!

We take the mystery out of Medicare helping you avoid costly mistakes that may not be able to be undone.

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Many of you are overpaying and don’t even know it! Let us help at no cost to you!

Medicare Supplements can be changed ANYTIME throughout the year.

Sandra Brown

1222 Shooting Park Rd. • Suite 102 • Peru 815-223-9394

Clay Begly

Member of the National Association of Medicare Supplement & Medicare Advantage Plans. We are state licensed, servicing brokers that continue to be of service throughout the year. SM-CL1998935

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The Times - Retirement Communities

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n November of 2020, The Villas of Holly Brook in Streator opened its doors to its first residents. Staff member Jessica Overocker had come in to apply for a CNA position but after taking a tour fell in love with the Activity Room. “I felt it was where I needed to be,” she says, “I applied for the Activity Director position right away.” With nearly 20 combined years in skilled nursing, home health, rehabilitation, and geriatric care, she was one of the first to be hired. “I worked hard to help open the building and turn it into a home. It was very rewarding.” “Our Streator community is an important part of The Villas of Holly Brook family. It provides residents with a place to enjoy their retirement with a focus on health, wellness, and socialization, either independently or utilizing our Levels of Care program,” said Reggie Philips, President of the Villas of Holly Brook. “Reflections Memory Care provides a continuum of care for residents with dementia or Alzheimer’s. We welcome new residents from the surrounding area, who also can benefit from our unique approach to enriching lives and lifestyles. This is a premier retirement community designed to meet the retirement and wellness needs of seniors in La Salle County.” A number of Streator residents have been saying positive things about The Villas online: Yvette says in a Google Review that her mother loves her apartment, enjoys the weekday movies in the Villas movie theater, and is always ready for another round of Bingo. “The food is delicious – the food service professionals offer excel-

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lence in the dining experience for all residents. Even personalizing as requested,” she adds. “Our family appreciates everyone here!” Sarah says The Villas have been “just what [her] mother needs to live her best life. The care she receives is second to none and the encouragement she receives is wonderful. It’s comforting to know that she is cared for and she is so happy.” Janice’s aunt had been at a nursing home under hospice care before moving into The Villas. “My aunt has made amazing improvements since she has been living at Holly Brook in Streator,” she said in a review. “She is now independent and active. The nurses keep me updated if there are any concerns. Every staff member goes out of their way to make sure my aunt is happy. I can’t say enough good. I am so glad I chose to move her here.” Jessica, the Activity Director, concludes, “We have been able to grow together as a community from the beginning. I am blessed to be the Activity Director of this beautiful and unique community. It has been a learning process doing something new but I have always wanted to make things better for seniors.” While the Grand Opening has been delayed, the community continues to thrive. Call and ask about a tour to see if it is the right place for you or a loved one. The Villas of Holly Brook is located at 2002 E. Main Street in Streator. For more information, call 815-673-7477. You can also visit www.villasofhollybrook. com or connect on Facebook.

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SM-CL1999131

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Evergreen Place and Heritage Health continue to look forward in 2022! At Evergreen Place in Streator, our commitment is Relentless!

E

vergreen Place Supportive Livings offers compassionate services to support joyful and convenient living to seniors. From daily meals and social activities to laundry and housekeeping services, our caring, trained team is available to make life easier for our seniors and their loved ones. Our methods, training, and level of respect comes from a long heritage of care. We are proud to be a part of the Heritage Health family, a familyowned company that has a 50-year history of excellent service and superior care and support for seniors and their families. Our goal is to promote a healthy senior lifestyle which allows individuals to feel empowered, supported, and happy in their new home. We are eager to move forward with our hospitality, social events, and choice-driven services that our residents and families have known to love and trust. It has been a tough journey and we are grateful and optimistic as our team had to adapt to many changes and evolve. We grew and learned about our capabilities, our team and our unrelenting commitment to meeting the needs of our seniors. In fact, we are RELENTLESS! We are proud to announce our company’s stance to assure the safety and wellness of our residents: we are now requiring COVID-19 vaccinations for all new and existing team members. We feel this is the right thing to do in order to stay true to our mission of caring for seniors. We learned the value and importance of transparent communication with our residents and families. Our residents and families continue to appreciate the consistent updates and education on regulations as well as

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community changes. We are thankful our residents are now able to gather with family and friends. Our team members become extensions of our residents’ families and play a vital role in connecting seniors to their loved ones. The emotional health of our residents and families is just as important as physical well-being. To learn more about Evergreen Place or to schedule a tour, call Kaitlan Gaworski, at 815-672-0903 or visit us on the web at EvergreenSLC.com/ Streator THE BENEFITS OF A HERITAGE HEALTH STAY… Often, we hear people say they will never agree to go to a nursing home. And we understand their sentiment to a degree. Mainly because it’s difficult to predict the future as hard as we may try. Prepare for the worst and hope for the best is what is recommended. But how can we know for sure what we’ll need in say five, ten or fifteen years from now? One thing you can know for sure is that Heritage Health: Therapy & Senior Care of Streator will be here for you when you need us most! While the idea of a nursing and rehabilitation facility is not what you had in mind, it can help you through a difficult medical event. Heritage is not just a nursing home, its progressive and smart clinical care as well as comprehensive and aggressive therapy services. All designed to restore you to your previous level of care and get you back home as quickly as possible. Other benefits include help with daily tasks, active socialization, food and nutrition, a safe environment and on-site general healthcare to optimize your everyday quality of life. Heritage Health: Therapy & Senior Care has made a long-

term investment in the Streator area for many years now and we remain committed to you for many more years to come. We are a 5-Star CMS rated skilled facility and we work hard to keep our seniors safe, healthy, engaged, and happy. The options for care are vast here at Heritage. We accept short stay admissions utilizing traditional Medicare or a Medicare Advantage replacement plan to get people back home as quickly as possible, we work with folks who may need to stay with us long term by either paying privately, accessing a long-term care plan, or State of IL Medicaid assistance. Heritage of Streator is also a VAcontracted home for veterans who need long term support

and services and who meet the minimal VA service connection criteria for the VA Nursing Home Program. As a veteran, you don’t have to go out of town for VA nursing home care. We can assist in finding out eligibility. Take advantage of the benefits of a Heritage Health stay when you need services and support after a hospitalization. Ask for Heritage Health: Therapy & Senior Care of Streator. To learn more access our website for more details and information by visiting our website at www.HeritageOfCare.com/ Streator. And as always, we are available by phone to answer all your questions, just call our main line at 815-672-4516.

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REGAIN WITH RESTORE! Optimize a successful return home from the hospital with a short stay rehab at Heritage Health!

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• RESTORE THERAPY: Occupational, Physical, and Speech Therapy • Easy Transition from Hospital, to Heritage, to Home • Top-Notch Short Stay Rehab Experience! • Excellent Infection Control Measures

Call Amy Today! (815) 672-4516 1525 E. Main Street, Streator HeritageOfCare.com/Streator

We’re Relentless! Our pursuit of providing the best quality care for our residents and their families is always our top priority.

facebook.com/HeritageHealthStreator

EvergreenPlace SUPPORTIVE LIVING

Our Residents are Treated as Family! • 24-Hour Support Services • Restaurant-Style Meals • Senior-Friendly Transportation • Maintenance-Free Living • Pet-Friendly Community • Private Apartments

Call Kaitlan Today! (815) 672-0903 1529 E. Main Street, Streator EvergreenSLC.com/Streator

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facebook.com/EvergreenPlaceStreator

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How active seniors can lower their injury risk

Physical activity is one of the key components of a healthy lifestyle. Though physical activity benefits people of all ages, it can be especially helpful for seniors by making it easier for them to overcome some of the obstacles associated with aging. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, physical activity supports dail living activities and independence. That’s a significant benefit for seniors who are worried that age-related physical and mental decline might one day compromise their ability to live independently. The CDC also notes that physical activity

lowers the risk for early death, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. The CDC reports that physical activity is generally safe for fit individuals who are 65 and older and have no existing conditions. Despite that, it’s best for any senior to consult his or her physician prior to beginning a new exercise regimen. Once doctors give seniors the goahead to begin a new workout routine, seniors can take the following steps to reduce their risk for injury. • Warm up before working out. Seniors may think they don’t need to warm up before exercising because their workouts are not as high-intensity as they might have been when they were younger. But Harvard Medical School notes that warming up pumps nutrientrich, oxygenated blood to the muscles and helps increase heart rate. The American Council on Exercise reports that warming up helps reduce workout-related injury risk by improving tissue elasticity. So

prior to beginning a workout, regardless of how moderate- or low-intensity that regimen will be, seniors should warm up for five to 10 minutes. • Start with a routine that’s commensurate with your abilities. Seniors excited by the prospect of working out must temper that excitement if they’re not accustomed to physical activity. Such individuals should consider working with a personal trainer. Personal trainers design exercise regimens based on each individual client’s fitness levels and goals. As clients make progress and their bodies become acclimated to routine physical activity, personal trainers can then tweak regimens to make them more challenging. Seniors can take on these responsibilities themselves, but are urged to begin slowly and gradually build up their exercise tolerance. • Don’t skip strength training. Seniors may think lifting weights is for young people who want to look buff, but

the AARP® notes that musclestrengthening activities protect the joints, reducing seniors’ risk for injury as a result. The Department of Health & Human Services recommends seniors who have been cleared to exercise engage in strength training at least twice per week. • Stretch after your workout. Harvard Medical School reports that efforts to cool down after a workout, including stretching, can prevent muscle cramps and dizziness a nd lengthen muscles throughout the body, which improves range of motion. Harvard Medical School recommends holding each stretch for 10 to 30 seconds, as the longer a stretch can be held the more flexible individuals’ muscles will be. Physical activity is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle for seniors. Active seniors can take various steps to reduce their injury risk so they can continue to reap the rewards of exercising for years to come. TF222699

CONTACT US TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR PROGRAMS 704 East Glover St. Ottawa, IL Phone: 815-431-4900 Fax: 815-434-2376 Medicare, Private Insurance, Public Aid & Worker’s Compensation Accepted

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INPATIENT & OUTPATIENT THERAPY PROGRAMS PHYSICAL THERAPY/OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY/SPEECH THERAPY RESPIRATORY THERAPY PAIN MANAGEMENT THERAPY IV THERAPIES IN-HOUSE DIALYSIS SERVICES

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Darcy Beals

205 S. Park St. • Streator

M.S., CCC-A Audiologist

darcybeals@yahoo.com

815-673-2869

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Safe ways for seniors to volunteer Charitable organizations rely on the efforts of volunteers to meet their missions every day. People of all ages can volunteer, and a great number of volunteers are seniors. A 2016 survey from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics found that nearly one-quarter of American volunteers are age 65 and over. The rollout of various COVID-19 vaccines has allowed vaccinated individuals to return to a certain degree of pre-pandemic normalcy. However, the threat posed by strains of the virus like the Delta variant has made some seniors apprehensive about returning to volunteering. Though each individual should consider various factors before returning to volunteering during the pandemic, the following are some options seniors can consider as they aim to safely pitch in once again. • Look for contactless opportunities. Interactions with the people they help and work

alongside is what drives many volunteers to lend a helping hand. That’s especially so for seniors whose children have grown up and moved out. In person interactions may be too risky during the pandemic, but seniors can still volunteer via contactless opportunities. For example, in lieu of delivering meals by hand, seniors who work with organizations such as Meals on Wheels can deliver prepackaged meals outside recipients’ residences. • Pitch in with fundraising. A report from Giving USA released in 2021 revealed that Americans gave more to charity in 2020 than in 2019. That increase came in spite of an economic downturn that saw millions of people lose their jobs or take pay cuts as companies scrambled to deal with lost revenue related to the pandemic. Though giving might have increased in 2020, many nonprofit organizations, including local community theaters, likely suffered due

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to cancellations and audience restrictions. As a result, many local nonprofit organizations are in need of financial support. Seniors who want to pitch in but stay safe can volunteer to help local organizations raise funds. Seniors can participate in fundraising efforts from the comforts of their own homes. • Offer professional expertise. Many seniors retired after spending decades mastering

their crafts, and that experience can be an invaluable resource to local nonprofit organizations. Seniors can offer professional advice and mentor youths remotely via apps like Zoom without putting their physical health at risk. Seniors concerned for their safety can still lend a hand by volunteering with their favorite nonprofit organizations. GB21B444

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815-433-8875

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ReSound ONE™ offers the best rechargeable battery life in the industry with up to 30 hours** of battery life or 25 hours with the ability to stream as much as you want. ReSound ONE truly keeps you connected to people and technology you need to become ONE with your world. ** Expected battery life dependent on active features, the use of wireless accessories, hearing loss, device age and sound environment.

Bernard J. Torri, M.A. Clinical Audiologist OTTAWA

18 Gunia Dr. • LaSalle 815-224-3126 (Voice & TTY) SM-CL1998290

8:30am-12pm • 1pm-4:30pm Mon -Fri

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PERU

North Ottawa Plaza, 2741 N. Columbus St. 1921 4th Street, with Eye Care Professional

CALL TODAY (815) 434-4748 7/12/22 2:11 PM


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How to plan for medical emergencies M

edical emergencies pose a significant threat to human health. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, unintentional injuries accounted for more than 192,000 deaths in 2020. That marks a significant increase since 2015, when NCHS data indicates roughly 146,000 people died from unintentional injuries. Unintentional injuries are not the only situations that qualify as medical emergencies, which also can result from sudden, life-threatening issues like heart attack or stroke. Knowing what to do in the wake of a medical emergency can reduce the likelihood that such instances end in tragedy. And though medical emergencies might be most often associated with aging men and women, such scenarios can affect anyone at any time. That means it’s in everyone’s best interest to learn how to plan for medical emergencies. • Document your medical history and keep printed documentation in an easily accessible place. Younger individuals likely won’t have as much documentation regarding their medical histories, including existing conditions, medications and even previous emergencies. But all individuals should print out a document that includes a brief rundown of their medical histories, and keep the document in an easily accessible place so caretakers, spouses or roommates can quickly find it and share all relevant information with first responders. • Pack an overnight bag. Aging men and women or young people with a history of illness and/or medical emergencies should pack an overnight bag or ask their caretakers to pack one for them. Include pajamas, personal toiletries and other care items, and even some books or activity books so you have something to do should you require an extended stay in the hospital. Include a spare phone or device charger in your overnight bag, as it’s easy to forget such items when you’re hurrying out the door in an emergency situation.

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What are the warning signs of a medical emergency? No two medical emergencies are the same. But the American College of Emergency Physicians notes that the following are some warning signs of a medical emergency: • Bleeding that will not stop • Breathing problem, such as difficulty breathing and shortness of breath • Change in mental status, such as unusual behavior, confusion or difficulty arousing • Chest pain • Choking • Coughing up or vomiting blood

• Become CPR-certified. The medical experts at MedStar Health recommend that individuals take classes for first aid and CPR. Such lessons can save lives and help anyone experiencing a medical emergency get immediate attention until first responders arrive to administer additional care. Some organizations may offer free CPR courses, while others, including the American Red Cross, offer training at affordable prices. • Map out the quickest route to the nearest emergency room. Modern drivers are accustomed to relying on

• Fainting or loss of consciousness • Feelings of committing suicide or murder • Head or spine injury • Severe or persistent vomiting • Sudden injury due to a motor vehicle accident, burns or smoke inhalation, near drowning, deep or large wound, or other injuries • Sudden, severe pain anywhere in the body • Sudden dizziness, weakness, or change in vision • Swallowing a poisonous substance • Severe abdominal pain or pressure

their car’s GPS systems to get from point A to point B. However, during a medical emergency it’s ideal if individuals or caretakers already know where the nearest hospital is and how to get there. That removes uncertainties from the situation and ensures that precious seconds won’t be wasted trying to get devices to connect with automobiles. Medical emergencies can affect anyone at any time. Knowing what to do in such situations can save lives and increase the chances of a positive outcome. TF221625

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Available Now! Do you have limited income and are in search of an affordable and nice place to live?

The Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) programs provide affordable housing to over 1600 families in our community. Stretching across LaSalle County, HALC owns and operates more than 1000 units of affordable housing.

Ravlin Congregate Center Mendota Residential Center 400 E. Washington St., Ottawa 701 Meadowview Dr., Mendota

Section 8 vouchers are available in both Grundy & LaSalle Counties. Program participants can use their Section 8 vouchers in the private market with participating landlords. This is a great way to get the assistance you need while having the flexibility to find a location near desirable neighborhoods, school districts, places of employment, or communities of choice. Public Housing provides families, seniors, singles, and people with disabilities the housing assistance they need to live in a safe, affordable and well maintained home.

Everett Towers 609 N. Everett St., Streator

Fornof Manor 606 E. Morrell St., Streator

Section 8 LaSalle County Grundy County Edgeview Senior Apartments 215 E. Sheridan Ave., Sheridan

Somerset Apts. 2105, 2109, 2113 Somerset Dr. Ottawa

The Housing Authority for LaSalle County is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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Leland Manor 265 Genessee St. Leland

• We have rents as low as $50 a month, based on income, and deposits starting at $100. • Small pets are permitted in most locations. Applications for public housing and lottery applications for Section 8 Housing Authority programs can be obtained at our offices in: • Ottawa: Central HALC Office, 526 E. Norris Dr. • LaSalle: Centennial Courts, 2222 N. Tonti St. • Streator: Evans Heights, 1401 N. Otter Creek Rd. • Streator: Fornof Manor, 606 E. Morrell St. Call for more information

815-434-0380 Visit our website at www.halc.org

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The Times - Retirement Communities

Liberty Village

W

hat sets Liberty Village apart from the rest? When searching for a new place to live, we often ask ourselves, is this apartment right for me? Do I like the location? Does it have all of the features I need? Can

I afford it? We understand that when it comes to a move, it can be a bit overwhelming. That is why the staff at Liberty Village in Streator goes the extra mile to help ease your worry by working with you and your family to answer all of your questions, discuss options, and make the move in a smooth transition. The Estates at Liberty Village are apartments designed for the independent adult with their future in mind. The campus is designed to support an active lifestyle while living independently. As a tenant, you would enjoy the space that comes with the options of 1 or 2 bedroom apartments which includes full kitchens, large bathrooms, and spacious walk in closets. Parking is convenient with optional garage rental. The Liberty Lifestyle allows you to enjoy the freedom from maintaining the responsibilities of homeownership. With all main-

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tenance and housekeeping included, you can sit back and enjoy the clean and beautiful surroundings without a day lost doing it yourself. Cooking can be placed on the back burner, with 2 delicious buffet style meals served daily. You can enjoy more time with friends and family or taking those long awaited vacations. Living the Liberty Lifestyle means staying involved and engaged in the life you love and the things you enjoy. We take pride in offering a safe and welcoming home environment to our Tenants and family. Being located on the Northwest side of Streator, we are just minutes away from local shopping, restaurants, physician offices, and adult activity centers, yet we’re far enough out of the city center that we’re surrounded by lush wooded areas and the slower pace of the suburbs. We set the standard for quality, independent retirement living at an affordable rate. Please be our guest for lunch and a tour so you can experience firsthand what Liberty Village has to offer. For more information, call 815-672-1900 or go to your webpage at www.libertyvillageofstreator.com

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Liberty Village Not-for-Profit Providers

Combine amazing service, great friends and security and you’ve got the perfect recipe for all the comforts of home.

2322 N. Eastwood Ave., Streator 815-672-1900

Make an appointment to come visit us soon.

1101 31st St., Peru 815-224-2200

LIBERTY ESTATES Elegant retirement apartments offering our tenants freedom, comfort, convenience and affordability HAWTHORNE INN Assisted living services for those who enjoy an independent lifestyle but may need assistance and reminders in daily activities SM-CL1998562

140 N. 6th St., Princeton 815-875-6600 www.simplythefinest.net

I N DEP ENDENT LIV IN G l A S S I S T E D L I V I N G l M E M O RY C A R E

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What seniors should know about social media safety Seniors might not be the demographic individuals initially associate with social media. However, Pew Research notes that seniors’ social media usage has been steadily rising for a number of years, proving that individuals 65 and over are not tech-averse. Pew data from 2019 indicates that 46 percent of individuals 65 and older use Facebook. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram can be a great way to stay connected with family and friends and stay up-todate on community events. But social media usage is not without risks, especially in regard to users’ safety. Seniors without much social media experience can heed these safety tips as they navigate popular platforms and discover all they have to offer. • Examine your account settings. Social media users can

control their privacy settings so they can decide who can (and can’t) view their online activity. Each platform is different, but profiles set to public generally allow anyone to view individuals’ activity, so seniors should set their profiles to private to limit access to their information. • Be mindful of your social media social circle. It’s easy to make virtual friends via social media, but seniors should be mindful of who they accept as online friends. Carefully consider each friend request and decide just how big or small you want your social media community to be. Many individuals prefer to limit their online social circles to individuals they know well and want to stay in touch with, and that can serve as a good measuring stick when deciding whether or not to accept a friend request.

• Avoid sharing personal information. Seniors are no doubt aware that they should never share especially personal information, such as their Social Security number. However, seniors also should hesitate to share personal information like vacation plans. Seniors who post about upcoming trips could return home to find they’ve been victimized by criminals who scoured their social media accounts and learned when they were going to be away. A good rule of thumb is to keep personal information private and limit posts to information that is not overly specific or sensitive. • Recognize the threat posed by scammers. Social media platforms have had varying degrees of success in regard to keeping their sites scam-free. But scammers find a way, and users must take steps to avoid being victimized. Never click

on a link within a post from someone you don’t know and avoid anyone soliciting donations through social media platforms. Seniors are engaging with social media more than ever. Such engagement requires seniors to be mindful of the many ways to protect their privacy when spending time online. TF222703

22 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

BETH WALLACE, M.S., CCC-A

AUDIOLOGIST

ILLINOIS VALLEY’S TRUSTED AUDIOLOGIST

HEARING EVALUATIONS FOR ALL AGES • HEARING AID FITTINGS AND REPAIRS • CERUMEN REMOVAL

VISIT WALLACE CENTER FOR HEARING FOR ALL OF YOUR HEARING HEATHCARE NEEDS! We service all makes and models of hearing aids. New patients are welcome! We will honor your manufacturer warranty, regardless of where you purchased your hearing aids.

CALL TO SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY!

(815) 223-3201

4127 Progress Boulevard, Peru, IL 61354 • www.wallacecenterforhearing.com SM-CL1998905

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Life in Balance: How Senior Living Communities Promote Six Dimensions of Wellness

M

oving to a senior living community is not only a great way to shed household chores, it’s also a way to shape a more rewarding retirement. Today’s senior living communities encourage residents to examine their lifestyles in terms of six dimensions of wellness. With an amenityrich, wellness-focused community as home base, residents have options for enhancing every aspect of life.

Senior living communities accept residents of all beliefs and encourage all to practice their faith. Many offer options such as chaplaincy, Bible study, on-site worship services or transportation to local places of worship. Joining a volunteer group to make quilts, toys or blankets for children in need, community service such as clean up a local park, and tutoring are examples of how residents pursue a higher purpose.

1. STAYING FIT: PHYSICAL DIMENSION For older adults, maintaining physical wellness is a top priority. Senior living communities make staying active convenient by providing a senior-friendly fitness center with knowledgeable team members. Wellness programs are integrated into community life, with classes such as Tai Chi and line dancing, as well as health screenings. Transportation to doctor’s appointments can be arranged and some have on-site physician offices.

5. STAYING ENGAGED: OCCUPATIONAL WELLNESS The occupational dimension of wellness means using skills and knowledge in a way that delivers personal satisfaction. That might mean continued involvement in your field, doing consulting work, or using your expertise for a worthy cause. Living in a retirement community can clear your schedule for rewarding pursuits, because cleaning, lawn care, and meals are often included.

2. STAYING CONNECTED: SOCIAL DIMENSION Whether extraverted or introverted, most appreciate feeling connected to their community. That’s why senior living communities offer clubs and activities to enhance the social dimension. Being part of a retirement community provides options for casual companionship yet having a private residence ensures you’ll have “me time” and privacy. If the past few years have taught us anything, it’s the importance of community and personal relationships.

6. STAYING POSITIVE: EMOTIONAL DIMENSION The emotional dimension of wellness is about managing the feelings that result from life’s ups and downs. For seniors, this often involves emotions associated with health concerns or limitations. Senior living communities help mitigate stress because they provide an environment designed for safely aging in place. This enables residents to keep a positive mindset and remain active for as long as possible. Some communities also offer levels of care on site. These continuing care retirement communities, like Pleasant View, give resi3. STAYING SHARP: INTELLECTUAL DIMENSION dents confidence in the future, knowing that their needs can be Staying sharp is another high priority for older adults, and senior living communities expand options for the intellectual dimen- met without moving again. sion of wellness. With amenities such as art studios, libraries and A HEALTHY, HAPPY BALANCE computer labs you can continue stimulating hobbies or pursue Senior living communities are designed to make healthy aging new ones. Many retirement communities also offer on-site educapossible, with freedom from tedious chores and access to fitness tional lectures, book clubs or various workshops. amenities, wellness programs, and more, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy a fulfilling balance. 4. STAYING CONTENT: SPIRITUAL DIMENSION For more information about Senior Living or other services The spiritual dimension includes an individual’s beliefs and much more. A healthy spirit also springs from knowing your purpose and available at Pleasant View, please contact us at (815) 313-4202 or visit us online at PVOttawa.org. taking actions that are consistent with your personal values.

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The Times - Retirement Communities

16 Saturday, July 23, 2022

His CARE. His WAY. Create a customized plan for future care you will both have confidence in.

We understand navigating future care options for your loved one can seem complex and overwhelming and we’re here to help! Join us, however you are most comfortable to discuss the topics most important to you.

Learn more about: • • • •

Understanding care options How to evaluate a community Navigating family dynamics Pillars of successful aging

• How to prepare for a move • The true cost of care and available assistance • Next steps

RSVP Today! 815-313-4116 hiscarehisway.org/PleasantViewCare 505 College Avenue • Ottawa, Illinois 61350

RESIDENTIAL LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING • MEMORY SUPPORT SHORT-TERM REHABILITATION • HEALTHCARE/SKILLED NURSING

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