Today’s Transitions EXPLORE Spring 2026 issue

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ON THE HUNT

We’re going on a bear hunt. We’re going to catch a big one. Oh, what a beautiful day! We’re not scared.

This is a children’s book, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, by Michael Rosen. I have read it out loud to children for years, never applying it to myself. But it popped right into my head when I contemplated the word ‘explore.’ So, let’s use these four sentences as inspiration to start our explorations. We can have this type of attitude when trying something new.

Let’s break it down:

We’re going…

The decision has been made — it is happening. Nothing will deter us.

…on a bear hunt

This is the ‘what’ – what you’re going to find, or something you’re going to learn.

…We’re going to catch a big one

What a positive attitude concerning the outcome! We’re hoping for the best and sure it will happen.

Oh, what a beautiful day!

We’re stopping to notice the beauty on the journey — not just walking along with our heads down.

We’re not scared

Now, we know that sometimes we are scared to venture into the unknown. We try to knuckle down on control. Unfortunately, control is not possible when stepping into something new. We can be brave, though. And from my experience, bravery is what life demands.

Spoiler alert: The book ends with the bear-hunting family running back to their house, hiding and promising not to do that again. This can happen when we’re trying something new. Perhaps it didn’t turn out to be the right thing. But, how will we know that if we don’t try?

Happy ‘bear’ hunting! —Anita Oldham

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The opinions expressed herein are exclusively those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the position of the publisher. Today’s Transitions magazine does not endorse or guarantee any advertiser’s product or service. Copyright 2025 by Barrett Jacoby Publishing, LLC, all rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited without permission from Barrett Jacoby Publishing, LLC.

Spring 2026 / TodaysTransitions.com SPRING 2026 | VOL. 23 | NO. 1

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What’s New at TodaysTransitions.com:

Wellness: DRINK YOUR VITAMINS

Tech: REVIVE FAMILY MEMORIES

Caregiving: WHAT DO YOUR SENSES NEED?

Explore a new way to put a lot of nutrients into a glass or two per day with fresh juice cold-pressed straight from fruits and veggies.

These digitizing tools can give your old photos and videos a new lease on life — and preserve them for the future.

Learning how to support your loved one’s (and your own) sensory needs can help make things easier.

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What Could It Be?

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By Carrie Vittitoe |

If you’ve ever been around a toddler, you’ve seen discovery and exploration in action. Everything is new and miraculous — from pill bugs to tree bark to the way an ice cube melts. As we get older, these things become old hat; we’ve seen them a million times before. Still, there are plenty of opportunities for adults to explore new interests or continue a lifelong interest with renewed vigor, especially once children are grown or full-time work is a thing of the past.

Explore the skies

Having grown up in Seneca Gardens, Pat MacDonald would regularly sneak over to Bowman Field to watch planes take off and land. He says he was an “ADHD kid, very mechanically inclined, and fascinated by how planes could take off and fly around.” It’s no wonder, then, that he got his pilot’s license to fly for fun as a teenager and has only grown his love of aviation.

“THEY SHIP YOU A BUNCH OF METAL, RIVETS, AND SOME INSTRUCTIONS AND SAY, ‘GO AT IT [TO BUILD THIS PLANE].’”

Pat flies a Van’s RV, an experimental aircraft. “They are all built by hand,” he says. “They ship you a bunch of metal, rivets, and some instructions and say, ‘Go at it.’” When Pat bought his plane, it was already built, but he put in all new electronics and systems to modernize it. He spends considerable time just working on his plane, whether for regular maintenance or updates. Pat flew around 325 hours in 2025 and is an active member of Smoke On Aviation, an all-volunteer group that specializes in formation flying. The group has performed at Thunder Over Louisville, BowmanFest, and Louder Than Life. While Pat enjoys just getting up in the air by himself, he also finds the social aspect of recreational flying to be worthwhile. “The pilot community is very welcoming,” he says, and notes that among the Smoke On members, there is a special bond due to the level of trust needed when flying in formation.

Of course, if someone is more interested in exploring the skies while keeping their feet firmly planted on the ground, they might take a page from Steve Katsikas, who has developed a passion for astrophotography.

Like Pat, Steve developed his interest as a child. Under the guidance of his uncle George, who owned a reflecting telescope, Steve became fascinated with the heavens. But in 2020, his interest really exploded when he decided he wanted to take pictures of what he was seeing through his telescope. With help from Louisville Astronomical Society member Ronny Yates, Steve became fully immersed in a new passion. For Steve, this hobby checks a lot of boxes. “It combines everything I enjoy,” he says. “It’s 50 percent technical [and] requires learning how to use your tools in the right way. The learning process is pretty formidable. The other 50 percent

is artistic and aesthetic. That’s a really good balance that makes the hobby forever interesting.” Plus, there is the social component of being not only a member of Louisville Astronomical Society, but its president.

Explore the wild

Birding is now having its moment, but Meg Brown developed her interest in 2004. While she and her husband Steve always enjoyed being outdoors, when they met up with some avid-birder friends in the Rocky Mountains, Meg quickly caught the birding bug. She saw a grouse putting on a big display and was hooked. The Browns continued meeting up with these friends for vacations where birding was a big focus. After retiring, Meg and Steve joined Beckham Bird Club and started going on field trips with other members, at which point Meg says they realized, “We don’t have to go out of state to see some of these birds.” Some of their favorite places to birdwatch are the Mammoth Cave area, Bernheim Forest, and the Parklands of Floyd’s Fork.

Birding is a balm in many ways. “It gives you a sense of peace,” Meg says. “You feel the interconnectedness of nature. It really hits home.” She says she gets antsy when she can’t get out and observe or listen for birds.

In addition to Beckham Bird Club, Meg participates in citizen science projects using Cornell Lab’s eBird, an app that allows birders to note which birds they see and hear and the location. This data is used by other birders and scientists to track bird locations and trends.

Explore the water

It isn’t uncommon to see pontoons or speed boats on the Ohio River, but there is something special about seeing a sailboat with its brightly colored sails popping a bit of pizazz onto the water. Joe Collins grew up on the Finger Lakes in New York and recognized the appeal of sailboats as a 7-year-old when his dad bought one.

Joe’s enthusiasm for sailing only grew with time. He got his first boat when he was 12 or 13 and says, “We lived about 10 miles from the lake that we sailed on, and so in the summertime, I would get on my bicycle, ride over to the sailing club, and go sailing by myself.” Even now, sailing means freedom to him.

Joe owns five sailboats and uses them according to different conditions. His Sunfish is a good choice when the weather is nice since it is easy to manage alone.

“ANYTIME YOU GET TWO SAILBOATS TOGETHER, IT’S A RACE.”

He often goes sailing along the same waterways locally and says he sometimes sees nesting eagle pairs. “[Plus,] river traffic can be entertaining,” he adds.

Being on a sailboat can be a solitary endeavor, but it can also be social if Joe invites friends along or competes with others as a member of the Louisville Sailing Club. “Some people say, ‘Anytime you get two sailboats together, it’s a race,’” he says.

Joe has traveled with his boat for both vacations and competitions.

“I’ve sailed all up and down the East Coast, from New Hampshire to Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut,” he says. He has even taken his boat as far as Hawaii, where he tried windsurfing with it. “That was fun getting on an airplane,” he says. “Talk about excessive baggage charge.”

Explore your limits

Exploring an interest always pushes a person out of their comfort zone, whether it is learning astrophotography, how to fly or sail, or the distinctive song of a Golden Swamp Warbler. But sometimes the thing you take an interest in is your own body. At least, that is the case for Scott Rountree.

“When I was younger, I did not see myself as an athlete,” Scott says. But as he edged closer to 50, he decided he didn’t like what he was seeing in the mirror. He began working out with his wife, Jackie, and doing “a tiny bit of running,” but he didn’t really like it. Still, they kept doing it and became volunteers with a weekly timed 5K running group (Joe Creason parkrun), where Scott would sometimes compete.

“I still didn’t like running; I don’t like running now,” he says. “But all of this started by falling in love with the results and the discipline of the process.”

Eventually, Scott and Jackie decided to participate in what he calls “group suffering,” also known as a half marathon. He went on to do two full marathons, one in Montana and another in Indiana. By the end of that year, Scott signed up for his first “sprint” triathlon in Oldham County, where he won in his age group. In August 2025, he competed in Iron Man 70.3 Louisville, then followed up with another triathlon in Augusta, Georgia, a month later.

“It’s remarkable what you can actually accomplish over time,” he says.

By Jessica

What We’re...

...Reading

Lady Tremaine, by Rachel Hochhauser, out March 3

This novel reimagines the myth of Cinderella’s ‘wicked’ stepmother in a bold and beautifully written way. When a royal ball offers the chance to change everything, the widowed Lady Etheldreda Tremaine risks her pride in pursuit of an invitation for all three of her daughters — only to see her hopes fulfilled by the wrong one. As an engagement to the future king unfolds, Ethel discovers a sordid secret hidden in the royal family.

American Rambler: Walking the Trail of Johnny Appleseed, by Isaac Fitzgerald, out May 12

As a child, Isaac Fitzgerald was captivated by the story of Johnny Appleseed. This blend of memoir, history, and travelogue recounts Isaac’s walk from Massachusetts to Indiana on a year-long journey to follow Appleseed’s path, turning a childhood fascination into a reckoning of loss, faith, grimy gasstation bathrooms, and scenic apple picking.

…Watching

Rooster, HBO/HBO Max, out March 8

This new comedy series stars Steve Carell as Greg Russo, a best-selling novelist who visits his daughter Katie (Charly Clive), a college professor entangled in her own romantic and professional turmoil. Comedic chaos sparks when Greg begins to blur the line between his literary persona and real life.

Scarpetta, Amazon Prime Video, out March 11

Adapted from the series of bestselling novels by Patricia Cornwell, this crime-thriller TV series stars Nicole Kidman as Dr. Kay Scarpetta, a forensic pathologist who uses science and intuition to solve murders. Co-starring Jamie Lee Curtis, this adaptation follows a dual timeline, exploring Kay’s early career in the late ’90s and a present-day murder investigation.

...Listening to

A Pound of Feathers, The Black Crowes, out March 13

The Black Crowes’ upcoming album pushes the band’s blues-soaked rock swagger into bold, expressive new territory. Echoing the raw spirit of early hits like the ’90s’ Hard to Handle and She Talks to Angels, A Pound of Feathers mixes gritty riffs, soulful melodies, and instinctive performances, promising a blend of vintage Crowes attitude and contemporary edge.

Your Favorite Toy, Foo Fighters, out Apr 24

The iconic rock band’s 12th studio album marks a fresh chapter in their career. Anchored by fiery singles like the title track and Asking for a Friend, the record delivers the Foo Fighters’ signature hard-rock energy with punchy riffs and memorable choruses. With new drummer Ilan Rubin helping to inject momentum, listeners can expect a lean, dynamic collection that feels both familiar and invigorated.

Jody Demling:

Down the Stretch with a Storyteller

Jody Demling’s passion for sports, horses, and writing is homegrown — and it’s led the way to cultivating a fulfilling career. “I’m a storyteller and a writer at heart,” he says.

Jody has lived in Louisville his entire life — well, except for those few months he worked a newspaper internship in Colorado. “So, every other moment of my life, I’ve lived here,” says the UofL graduate. “I remember going to the track when I was really young with my grandma and grandpa.” This childhood exposure played a role in developing Jody’s love of horses. Later, his position at The Courier Journal solidified it.

Racing and reporting

A self-proclaimed “newspaper guy,” Jody relays that during his time at The Courier Journal from 1991 to 2021, he covered a wide variety of sports, from golf to high school athletics. “I grew up at the newspaper and did a little bit of everything,” he says.

It was during his second year working at the CJ that Jody was asked if he’d like to add horse racing to his list of responsibilities. At that time, racing reporter Jenny Rees, who had been at the newspaper since the early ’80s, was the lead journalist. (She would go on to win Kentucky Sportswriter of the Year in 2013.) Jenny became a positive mentor in Jody’s life, broadening his knowledge of the track and how to write about it. “She was amazing, and I basically learned from her,” Jody says.

While Jody enjoys all aspects of sports reporting, when it comes to horse racing, it’s the stories he loves most of all.

“When you’re on the backside with the horses in the morning, it’s like a different world,” he says. Hearing about how the horses got their names or learning the history of a certain horse’s sire and dam is all sacred ground for this storyteller.

“There are so many different storylines about each horse, and I think that’s cool,” Jody says.

In fact, Jody was the first reporter to share the backstory of 2009 Derby winner, Mine That Bird: How the horse’s team

“THAT’S WHY HORSE RACING IS SO AWESOME — YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT STORY THERE IS BACK THERE.”

drove cross-country to take part in the race, how famous trainer Chip Woolley navigated the expanse of Churchill Downs on crutches, and how extraordinarily, Mine That Bird surpassed 50-to-1 odds to achieve the greatest upset in Derby history. “That’s why horse racing is so awesome — you never know what story there is back there,” Jody says.

Off the track

Outside of horse racing, Jody stays connected to UofL as a contributor to Cardinal Authority, a website dedicated to covering University of Louisville football, basketball, and other sports with inside info, team analysis, and a forum/message board. “It’s worked out well to where I’m able to do a lot,” Jody says, adding that Cardinal Authority has opened more doors of opportunity for him.

Not stopping there, Jody also serves as the Director of Sports Ministry at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. Jody attended Catholic school all his life and vividly recalls the positive mentors he looked up to — the inspiring individuals who made sure the sports programs were supported and organized. “To be one of those kinds of mentors now is so satisfying and gratifying for me,” he says. Jody admits he has lots of irons in the fire, but he wouldn’t have it any other way: “I get joy from a lot of different things.”

At home, Jody finds support and love with his family. He and his wife have been married close to 30 years and have two kids. On fatherhood, Jody says it’s been fun watching his son and daughter grow into their own and flourish as individuals.

Tips for life and laying a bet

For those of you looking to find a little more joy in life, Jody passes on the advice he received while working at The Courier Journal: Say yes. “Take that opportunity and do it,” he says. That ‘yes’ mindset can introduce you to new interests and deepen your appreciation for what you’re creating today.

And for those of you looking for racing tips, Jody says there’s no sure way to place your winning bets. “I look at the racing form and the numbers, and I’ll try to pour as much of my mind into those races to try to win,” he says, but adds that he has to laugh because people betting on the jockeys or just picking favorite names probably win more.

Whatever he’s doing, it is a sure bet that Jody is staying true to his love for Louisville and sports lore: “I am a storyteller and a writer, and that’s kind of always who I am,” he says.

Finding Purpose on the Forest Trail

Ashared love of nature and education drew Kat Panther and Leslie Senn to their volunteer roles at Bernheim Forest and Arboretum. Both are volunteer naturalists in their 70s who lead guided hikes, host discovery stations, and help connect visitors to nature through a variety of hands-on experiences. The duo lead Midweek Nature Strolls each month for those interested in learning more about the natural world and the beauty of the forest environment.

“We choose the mornings for the hikes because that’s the best time to see the wildflowers, birds, and creatures moving about,” Leslie says. “One of the purposes of these walks is to take our hikers to areas of Bernheim Forest they may not have been to before.”

Kat says she and Leslie weave poetry, art, and history into these slow-paced walks through the forest trails.

“In January our stroll was titled Friendship Like the Holly Tree, taken from an Emily Bronte poem,” Kat says. “Poets often write poetry inspired by nature, and our Holly Collection has so many stories to tell.

“We now have some regular hikers each month, and sometimes visitors join us. Everyone has something to add to the hikes.”

Leslie says the Midweek Nature Strolls program has allowed her to continue using her experience as a teacher and enabled her to be outdoors and to build new friendships.

Kat adds that volunteering has helped provide structure and organization to

her life in retirement, two things that were important during her professional life as a director of programs at Frazier Rehab Institute.

“I thought I was going to be more ‘go with the flow’ in my retired life,” Kat says. “But no, having a schedule and operating in planning mode apparently are part of my DNA. I have taken on an organizer role for the annual Bernheim BugFest event, and that really floats my boat!”

Both Kat and Leslie encourage other retirees to consider volunteering. They say this type of involvement gets you out of the house and provides an opportunity to interact with others and maintain a connection to the community.

“Everyone has a smile, a helping hand, or a skill they can share,”

“IN RETURN YOU GAIN FRIENDSHIPS, A CONNECTION OUTSIDE YOUR HOME, AND A REASON TO GET UP.”

Leslie says. “In return you gain friendships, have a connection outside of your home and a reason to get up. Volunteering gives me a sense of purpose and engagement, and having an event on my schedule motivates me to get out and enjoy the day with others, to converse and exercise. No matter what your interests are, there is somewhere in the community that needs you.”

“Volunteering is such a gift — you receive more than you give,” Kat adds. “I’m so proud to be a volunteer with Bernheim Forest. I love the Bernheim family of volunteers and staff. I love the peace of mind I feel when I’m there, and I love what I’ve learned and that I can pass something along to our visitors.”

By Megan S. Willman

“You use a glass mirror to see your face; you use works of art to see your soul.”

—George Bernard Shaw

Art, in its many forms, has a powerful impact on our lives. However, if you’re a person who doesn’t feel particularly confident about selecting art for your home, these words can carry an awful lot of weight. It might feel like a lot of pressure to select pieces for your home that allow anyone present to “see your soul.” Does this sound like you? If so, three local artists have suggestions to guide you. While each of them may focus on different media, the heart of their message is the same: Art is a reflection of you and your interests. Don’t worry that others may not see it in the same way. It is your own story that you are telling.

Eddie Frank Hickerson works at Fleur de Flea in Louisville, one of many great places in the area to walk through and see vintage and current art in many forms. She is also a member of the relatively new community co-op, Maybe It’s Fate, in Butchertown, where she recently curated a show called Paper Cuts that highlighted the work of three female artists.

“I believe that finding what you like is a skill that you can build,” Eddie says. “The world of interior design and the world of art don’t overlap in the way you might expect. A work of art can speak differently to you from one day to the next. Our feelings about any particular piece can change based on light, shadow, the weather, and your mood on a given day.”

Eddie described a giant gold leaf installation that couldn’t help but catch her eye every time she passed it. It was placed along a brick wall but across from a window so that light hit it differently throughout the day. “It was changing minute by minute — in the early afternoon sun, when clouds passed over, and when the sun was setting,” Eddie says. “It really shook my understanding about how art can change and our feelings about each piece can change too. I find that any time we install a show, my favorite piece at the beginning is almost never my favorite in the end.”

Ruth Dowling, an artist and educator in Sellersburg, Indiana, agrees that feelings are at the heart of any piece that she purchases or creates. “I am extremely picky about art that goes into my home,” she says. “I do not have a lot of art, and initially felt that I needed to ‘fill in’ all the blank walls as soon as I moved into a home. However, after our 11th move, I embraced the white walls and only put things up that spoke to me or my family.”

The art in Ruth’s home showcases the importance of faith, family, and personal values. Her own art is hung on the walls, as is the work that her children create. Each of them is encouraged to express themselves artistically and to decorate their rooms in a way that shows their own values and interests.

Marietta Willman, an artist, educator, and docent, works primarily as a ceramicist, sculptor, and painter. After a lifetime

of work in the arts, she still says, “I think what I do is play at art.”

No matter the style in which the art is created, most items on Marietta’s walls reflect a special memory — a person or place she treasures. “When anyone asks me how to select art for their home, I ask them, ‘What do you want to look at? What brings you joy or peace?’” Marietta says. “I have a painting I did years ago of my husband John when he was hunting. I can see it from where I sit every evening, and that’s a happy memory for me.”

Ready to put some inspiration on your walls? Each of these women share their insights about the process of selecting and collecting art.

Where can I go to see a variety of art and figure out what I like?

Eddie: Make an appointment to visit Maybe It’s Fate. It can be hard to realize that all art is personal art. Sometimes when it’s hung on a white wall, it doesn’t feel personal. At Maybe It’s Fate, you can sit with the art. You can get to know the artist who made it; they are typically members too. You begin to realize that art is made by people for people. It is personal and accessible.

Ruth: I go to galleries, art fairs, and stores like TJ Maxx or Hobby Lobby where you can see a variety of different things. People often assume that because I’m an artist, I spend lots of hours in galleries.

22 >>

(Ruth:) In my busy life, I may only have one hour to spend. I can walk through and find the piece that really hits me and then spend time enjoying it.

Marietta: I enjoy museums and art fairs, like St. James in Louisville and Chautauqua (in Madison, Indiana), but I have also been known to go into Target or Big Lots and look at what they have in the store. I can see what colors and styles interest me and then have a better idea what I may want to find (or create) for my own home.

What is art?

The answers here were common — “anything” is probably the best answer. Photographs, something we all have, are works of art, although we don’t always think of them that way. Other examples include children’s and grandchildren’s drawings, posters, metalworks, fabric, ceramics, and family heirlooms. Anything that you love and that you want to show in your home is art.

How do I know where to put the art I select?

Eddie: Put it in the place that feels most right to you and let it sit a bit before hanging. I believe art is porous and takes on the memories of a room. For example, if I have a favorite picture above my couch and memories of a person who sat beneath it at a special event, I will likely remember that person or special event each time I look at the picture.

“ART IS PERSONAL. YOU DECIDE WHAT IS BEAUTIFUL TO YOU.”

Marietta: You may want to consider each room on its own. Whose room is it? What are their interests? What is the purpose for that room? Are you trying to create a formal or informal space? Your choices can be easier to make in this way, going one room at a time.

Ruth: I would tell someone to consider the selection as a curation, something that will take time, and that they should collect artwork as they feel drawn to it. Original work is powerful, but photos that make someone happy and remind them of what is important to them are just as powerful.

What if I find a piece I love but can’t afford?

Eddie: Spend time with the piece. Go to look at it; take friends with you and enjoy it. If you are in a place like a gallery or Maybe It’s Fate, you can meet and spend time with others who also enjoy that piece and can talk about it with you.

Marietta: Perhaps you’ve seen something at a gallery or art show that you can’t afford, but you keep thinking about it. You can keep it in mind as you continue to shop around. You

may also ask yourself if you know someone who might be able to recreate something similar for you.

Ruth: There are many replicas to be found of famous works that are quite affordable. You would be surprised at how attainable art is and about what you can learn to do yourself. I took a photo of a black-and-gold octopus sculpture done by Dale Chihuly when I was visiting his museum in Seattle. I have created a print based on that photo that hangs in my guest bathroom. Another thing I think to myself is about my budget. Perhaps I see a piece, and I think, ‘I like this $50 worth.’ It may be $200 on the day you see it, but you can give it time, keep an eye on it. One day the price may be just right.

Any last words?

Eddie: Art is personal. It has to be beautiful. You decide what is beautiful to you.

Marietta: Focus on the feeling you get when looking at the art. If it makes you happy, it’s exactly the right thing for your home.

Ruth: Be intentional about what you put in your home. It needs to be meaningful to you and reflect what you believe in and treasure.

VACATIONS THAT HEAL

By Megan S. Willman

Avacation is a chance to step away from our daily responsibilities. It is an opportunity to refuel in body and spirit. But too often, we over-program and come home exhausted.

What if we approached a vacation differently — traveling with the purpose of enhancing our wellness? What if a vacation could actually leave us rested, breathing easier, and feeling more healed, both inwardly and outwardly?

Karen Newton, a teacher at Earth & Spirit Center in Louisville, has traveled with exactly this purpose. She especially seeks out destinations where she can be immersed in nature and its healing properties.

“I know that being in nature is good for me,” Karen says, “but it’s more than that. I want to be aware of the natural world I’m living in, and to be fully present.”

Karen and her partner Brian Mosma try to break away from planning every aspect of a vacation. “I’m not saying we don’t plan our trips, but we’re not scheduling each minute,” she says. “Our focus is on the moment, and we are intentional about immersing ourselves into whatever comes from each experience.”

Karen’s recommendations for a wellness trip

What would feel most restorative to you on a vacation? Time in solace, or time with others? A leisurely stroll, or a challenging hike? Let Karen’s adventures inspire your next wellness-boosting destination.

Breathing sea air improves lung function and sleep quality. Fifteen minutes in a forest can lower stress hormones. When you immerse yourself in nature, you lower your blood pressure, boost your immune system, and improve your mood. The Japanese coined the term “forest bathing” (shinrinyoku) in 1982, and the phrase is an apt description. Getaways such as these — even if you are just in your own town — can, indeed, heal.

Meditative community: One of Karen’s most rejuvenating vacations took her to Europe.

“We put ourselves on retreat at Plum Village in Southern France, a community founded by Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh,” Karen recalls. “For that amazing week, we were deep in the natural world, rising before sunrise to walk a mile to the meditation hall. We worked in the community all day, chopping vegetables, pulling weeds, and attending meditation sessions.

“There was no planning because the community is in place, and we dropped into the village as temporary community members,” she continues.

“Although the week was dedicated to mindfulness, and it strengthened my commitment to

meditation, it did not feel hardcore. It was extremely healing and restorative.”

High adventure: In 2024, Karen and Brian traveled with guides down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. “That was a highly planned trip, but once we were in the guides’ hands, there was nowhere to go but to embrace the fact that we were spending a week camping on the riverbanks of one of the great Wonders of the World,” Karen says. “It was high adventure!”

Island freshness: Karen had been to Costa Rica in the ’80s and knew she wanted to return to reap the health benefits of the beautiful landscape. For this trip, she elected to travel with a tour group instead of going solo. “When you use a travel company, you can select the level

“THERE IS A PRESENCE ABOUT THE PLACE. IT JUST FEELS HEALING.”

of physical activity you want on the trip as well as the size of your group,” she says. “We have used [the travel service] Road Scholar in the past. I also like Overseas Adventure Travel because there is no penalty for traveling alone.” Karen adds that in many cases, a single traveler has to pay the double occupancy rate for lodging.

Desert starlight: Sedona, Arizona, also holds a special place in Karen’s heart. She’s visited more than 20 times over the last 40 years. “It’s a quick flight from Louisville and a rental car to get there, but you feel as if you’ve gone far into the natural world,” Karen says. “The hiking is amazing and really accessible. You can stroll leisurely or really challenge yourself. The trails are wellgroomed and marked. It’s high desert, so every view is expansive.

“Sedona is a city that values the night sky — low lights are a requirement — so you can see the stars clearly,” she continues. Sedona has long been revered by Native Americans as a spiritual site, she adds. “There is a presence about the place. It just feels healing.”

Towering trees: Karen recommends a visit to the redwood forests of the West Coast, particularly traveling farther north toward Patrick’s Point. “The national parks are intact here, and parts of Highway 101 are still two-lane,” she says. “Your sense of connectedness to nature is intense — the sounds, sights, smells, and air quality. It’s incredible.”

Even if you stay close to home and visit a local park or retreat center, you can reap similar health benefits. “The key,” Karen says, “is to put yourself into the natural world. Call it a retreat. If you need to take a photo, do it and then put your phone away. Put yourself in community with nature. Do it with other people around you or on your own. It is truly healing.”

There is a song from the Plum Village tradition that Karen uses as a personal mantra. She has sung it as a lullaby to her grandchildren. Its message helps to ground her in the present moment:

Happiness is here and now I have dropped my worries

Nowhere to go, nothing to do

No longer in a hurry.

Happiness is here and now I have dropped my worries

Somewhere to go, something to do

But I don’t need to hurry.

–Thich Nhat Hanh

By Carrie

Keep Protein in Balance

Afriend recently said to me, “I’ve never been told to eat so much protein in my entire life.” And it’s true: it is nearly impossible to avoid social media content or news reports about the need for people, particularly menopausal women, to add protein to their diets. Even if your meals are pretty well-balanced, the ubiquitous nature of “protein” at the moment can make you question your eating habits.

“Protein is certainly having its moment to shine, and that can be a good thing,” says Jennifer Florence, a registered dietitian with UofL Health. “Adequate protein intake is important for all older adults, both men and women.”

Protein, like carbohydrates and fats, is a macronutrient that our bodies need in order to work properly. Jennifer notes that protein is often touted as muscle-boosting, but it does more than that. Protein provides structure to body tissue, such as hair, muscle, or cell membranes. But whether a person needs more protein is not a one-size-fits-all answer. “Protein recommendations should be individualized based on age, activity, and health condition,” Jennifer says.

Adding protein to one’s diet does not have to come in the form of slabs of beef. In fact, there are plenty of plant-based ways to add protein if you’re counting your macros. “All protein is not created equal,” Jennifer says. She explains that protein sources have different amounts of fat, fiber, and sodium, all of which can have an impact on one’s health.

Jennifer provides an example of three protein sources: ribeye steak, ham steak, and lentils. While four ounces of ribeye provides 33 grams of protein, it has zero fiber. Lentils, on the other hand, provide 17.9 grams of protein and 15.6 grams of fiber. Ham steak might seem to be a good middle ground until you look at its sodium levels: 796 mg (compared to ribeye’s 99 mg and lentils’ 4 mg).

People who have conditions such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure may need to watch their saturated fat or sodium intakes, meaning that the choices of ribeye or ham steak may affect them differently than lentils, though all have ample protein.

In tandem with social media’s protein obsession, changes to the USDA’s food pyramid visual may increase the public’s confusion over how much and what kind of protein they actually need. The location switch on the graphic of proteins and carbohydrates could potentially cause people to reduce their carbohydrate intake, which could cause its own set of problems. “Carbohydrates are the main source of fuel for the brain and play an important role in physical activity, metabolic health, and gastrointestinal function,” Jennifer says. But like proteins, not all carbohydrates are created equal, with fruits and whole grains being much more nutritious choices than processed carbs like chips and pastries.

“ALL PROTEIN IS NOT CREATED EQUAL.”

And as a person ages into their 80s and 90s, Jennifer notes that their nutrition priorities shift.

“In this population, overly aggressive diet restrictions can increase the risk of inadequate intake resulting in malnutrition,” she says. A switch to a high-protein diet at the expense of other nutrients could be the opposite of a healthy choice.

A Walking Appointment

What can you do today to improve your health? Put one foot in front of the other and walk your way to a healthier, happier you. Walking each day is an easy and free way to keep active, and it brings with it a chance to be social. As a general goal, you should aim for 30 minutes of physical activity each day. “Don’t worry if you can’t take a full 30-minute walk,” says Dr. Bridget Hittepole, associate professor at the University of Louisville Department of Medicine and the physician lead for Walk With a Doc. “Small walks throughout the day count. If you have time for a 5-10 minute walk, that counts. Every bit you can get in is good.”

Whether you are walking with a buddy or going solo, get it on your calendar. “Scheduling your walk is a good way to make it happen,” Dr. Hittepole says. “Treat it as an appointment so it is time that is carved out in your schedule.”

With a friend

Walking gets even better when you share the journey with others. The social interaction combined with the health benefits of walking provide a win-win and can make your workout more enjoyable. Mandy Schaffner has been walking with a group of friends for three years. “We try to walk five days a week in the mornings,” Mandy says. “Monday, Wednesday, and Friday we mix in some weights with our walking, and on Tuesday and Thursday we just walk. It sets the tone for my entire day. I hate when I miss it.”

Having a friend to walk with holds you accountable to show up and can take the emphasis off the exercise as you focus on the conversation and connection.

When choosing a walking buddy, Mandy recommends finding friends

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who have a similar schedule to yours so that it is easy to set the time and keep your walks consistent.

For your health

Walking can help you hit that daily activity goal, and it also provides several other benefits for overall health and longevity. Walking lowers your risk for cardiovascular issues, diabetes, stroke, and cancer. There are also cognitive benefits, including a reduced risk for dementia, says Dr. Hittepole.

Taking your walk outside has additional perks. “Being outdoors specifically has benefits, as time out in nature has been linked to a decrease in depression and anxiety,” Dr. Hittepole says. “Time in nature has also been linked to better sleep, especially getting natural sunlight in the afternoon.”

With future friends

Meet new people by walking in a group. The Louisville Hiking Club is another great option for taking your walk outside. The group hikes every Saturday at various locations around the city.

Walk With a Doc is an international organization that was started over 20 years ago by a cardiologist in Columbus, Ohio, who invited his patients to walk with him. It was a way to connect outside of the clinical setting and get everyone moving. Louisville’s chapter started in 2023 and meets on the second Saturday of every month at Waterfront Park. “Each walk event has several components: the physical walk, an educational component — a five-to-10minute health talk by the doctor before the walk begins — a social component as you walk with other people, and the

“WHEN YOU WALK AT THE SAME PLACE, YOU SEE THE SAME FACES, AND YOU GET AN OPPORTUNITY TO BUILD COMMUNITY AND CONNECTION.”

chance to spend time in nature,” Dr. Hittepole says. The program is free and open to the public. “We have a variety of people who join us. All ages and abilities are welcome,” Dr. Hittepole adds.

In rain-or-shine locations

Louisville offers multiple indoor and outdoor options that make walking easy and accessible. “When you walk at the same place, you see the same faces, and you get an opportunity to build community and connection,” Mandy says. When the weather is bad, various locations around the city offer indoor walking tracks, including several branches of the YMCA of Greater Louisville, the Jewish Community Center, and the South Louisville Community center. The Oxmoor Mall also opens its doors one hour early each morning so walkers can get their steps in before shoppers hit the stores. Louisville also has several unique outdoor walking options. The Louisville Zoo has a walking club that allows members to enter at 8am before the zoo officially opens at 10am. Membership in the program and access to the zoo for walking are free.

By Anita Oldham |

A Piece of CAKE

Blackberry Lavender Jam from HalfBakedHarvest.com

6 cups fresh or frozen blackberries

½ cup honey

1 Tbsp lemon juice

1-2 Tbsp dried lavender

Jam instructions

Add the blackberries, honey, lemon juice, and lavender to a medium-size pot set over high heat. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, use a potato masher or fork to mash and break down the berries. Continue to cook for 5-8 minutes or until the jam has reduced and thickened. Remove from heat and let cool. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

Ihad almost forgotten I had the ability to create a cake from scratch. Between box mixes and finished offerings in grocery stores and bakeries, it seemed ridiculous to make a cake at home. Then I remembered the sheet cake. I grew up making sheet cakes. They are easy to mix up, require normal pantry ingredients, and freeze well for future gatherings or cravings. They also don’t require advanced cake-stacking or icing abilities.

I hunted for a spring-inspired recipe and made this Blackberry Lavender Jam cake from a wonderful food website called Half-Baked Harvest. The recipe did require a few things that I don’t normally have on hand, Iike dried lavender, but I think it’s worth it.

You can start by making the jam, and then make the cake while the jam is cooling.

<< PAGE 35

Cake Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350° F. Line a 9x13inch baking dish with parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, beat together the coconut oil, sour cream, eggs, sugar, and vanilla. Add the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined, then slowly beat in the milk until fully combined.

3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Take about ½ cup to ¾ cup of the jam and dollop it by the tablespoon over the cake. Use a knife to lightly swirl the jam around. Don’t over-mix.

4. Bake 30-35 minutes until the top of the cake is just set and is no longer wiggly in the center. Remove and let cool completely before frosting.

Frosting Instructions

1. In a large bowl, beat together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the melted white chocolate and vanilla and beat until combined.

2. Spread a thin layer of jam over the cake, then frost the cake all over. Add small spoonfuls of the jam to the frosting and gently swirl it in. It’s ready to enjoy!

Note about alterations: We used frozen berries, which worked well. For a less sweet version that might be nice for breakfast, you can reduce the white chocolate in the frosting or even make the cake without frosting.

We made two versions of the cake, one exactly by the recipe and a gluten-free version using Bob’s Red Mill One-ForOne Gluten-Free Flour. Both turned out great.

1 cup melted coconut oil

½ cup sour cream

3 large eggs

1½ cups granulated sugar

1 Tbsp vanilla extract

1 cup milk

3 cups all purpose flour

½ tsp baking soda

1½ tsp baking powder

1 tsp kosher salt

Vanilla

2 sticks (16 Tbsp) salted butter, at room temperature

1½ cups powdered sugar

6 oz white chocolate, melted and cooled

1 tsp vanilla extract

Extra jam: We had jam left over from our cake making. It’s more of a compote than jam, runny but delicious, and would be lovely over pancakes, ice cream, or mixed into oatmeal.

Deepen Your Connections

The daily work of love is communication

Ithink that we fail not so much in the commitment of love, but rather in the daily work of love, which is communication. We can share a home with a person and still not be close to that person. But there is one thing that we cannot share with another person and not be close. The honest and open sharing of all feelings has to result in personal closeness and intimacy. How do we communicate with others? I think there are five levels of communication.

Level Five: The lowest level

Level five communication is conversation by clichés. In fact, there is no real communication here at all unless by accident. On this level, we only talk on the surface, such as “How are you?”, “Where have you been?”, or “It’s really good to see you.” In fact, we really mean almost nothing of what we are asking or saying. Usually the other party senses the superficiality and conventionality of our concern and question, and obliges us by simply giving the standard answer: “Just fine, thank you.”

Level Five is the chatter, the noncommunication, of the cocktail party, the club meeting, the neighborhood laundromat, and so forth. There is no sharing of the inner person at all. It is well summarized in the lyrics of Paul Simon in Sounds of Silence: “And in the naked light I saw, Ten thousand people, maybe more, People talking without speaking, People hearing without listening, People writing songs that voices never shared, No one dared Disturb the sounds of silence.”

Level Four: Fact reporting about others

By only reporting facts about others, we don’t step far outside our own loneliness into real communication because we expose almost nothing of ourselves. We remain content to tell others what so-and-so has said or done. We offer no personal, self-revelatory commentary on these facts, but simply report them. We seek shelter in gossip items, conversation pieces, and little narrations about others. We give nothing of ourselves and invite nothing from others in return.

Level Three: Ideas and judgments

On this level, revealing some of my own ideas and judgments offers some communication of my own person. It’s a risk to share our own ideas and judgments, and we

want to be sure we’ll be accepted with those ideas and thoughts. If you raise your eyebrows, yawn, or look at your watch, I will probably retreat to safer ground. I will try to be what pleases you.

Level Two: Sharing feelings and emotions

The feelings that lie under my ideas, judgments, and convictions are uniquely mine. No one experiences my precise sense of frustration, labors under my fears, or feels my passions. To tell you who I really am, it is these feelings which I must share with you.

Level One: Peak communication

All deep and authentic friendships, and the union of those who are married, must be based on absolute openness and honesty. At times, gut-level communication will be most difficult, but it is at these precise times that it is most necessary. Among close friends or between partners in marriage, there will come from time to time a complete emotional and personal communication.

In our human condition, this can never be a permanent experience. Instead, these are moments when an encounter attains perfect communication. At these times, the two people will feel an almost perfect and mutual empathy. We are like two musical instruments playing exactly the same note, filled with and giving forth precisely the same sound.

Bob Mueller is a bishop of the United Catholic Church. Connect with him at bobmueller.org.

With so much of our lives unfolding at home, the way our environment is designed directly impacts our health, safety, and happiness.

Mental health thrives in an inspiring space. “Refreshing and redecorating a home brings new life to it,” says Shoshanna Portman, owner of Shoshanna Color & Interior Design. “It improves mood and brings inspiration for other updates, such as changing your routine, creating space for a new hobby, or making the space feel more relaxing and inviting.”

Physical health often suffers in a disorganized home. “Cleanliness is a concern because the more surfaces are covered, the more challenging it is to maintain the home,” says Ashley White, professional organizer and owner of The Love of Order. Decluttering reduces dust, allergens, and mold, which leads to better circulation, easier breathing, and fewer respiratory issues. Functionality is particularly important for older adults. “Precious treasures could be what’s in the way of easy living, accessibility, and ability for others to visit,” Ashley says. An easily navigable home promotes safety, independence, and aging in place.

Signs your home needs a makeover

How do you know when it’s time for a change? Ask yourself…

How does your home make you feel? “The most obvious sign that your home is due for a refresh or redecoration is when you find yourself no longer inspired in your space,” Shoshanna says. Cluttered, outdated, or poorly decorated rooms can make you feel dissatisfied, disconnected, and unmotivated. Visible wear and tear makes your environment seem worn out and neglected. Eyesores like peeling paint, stains, or discoloration are signals that your home needs some updates and care.

How has your lifestyle changed since your last home update? There may be aspects of your current space that are complicating daily life. Functionality issues, such as poor lighting or broken furniture, can pose safety or mobility concerns and cause unnecessary injury and stress.

Are you constantly in repair mode? Whether you’re fixing running toilets or sealing cracks, these minor inconveniences often grow into bigger issues that make it difficult to move freely in your home.

Small changes, big impact

Wear and tear: Shoshanna recommends three simple, highimpact updates: painting, lighting, and hardware finishings. Start by repainting or touching up areas in your home that are showing age. As a color expert, Shoshanna says people are typically ready for a new color every five to seven years. A fresh

Organized bookshelves, artwork, clean paint, and adding greenery are all small changes that can make a big impact on a space.

coat of paint can make a room feel more modern and cared for. She also recommends upgrading cabinet knobs, door knobs, and outlet plates for a quick lift.

Clutter and disorganization: Clutter is a common challenge, but there are ways to restore both organization and accessibility. Creative storage solutions like ottomans or shelving keep items in order.

Also consider repairing, replacing, or donating furniture that’s damaged or outdated. Ashley recommends local donation

spots such as LifeBridge at Southeast Christian Church, Agape Shop, St. Vincent de Paul, and Re:Center Ministries.

Outdated or nonfunctional spaces: Rearranging furniture or switching items around can instantly refresh a room. “Turn your nightstand into an end table, pull some books out and place accessories from another area of the house where those books were,” Shoshanna suggests.

Small updates like new bedding, throw pillows and blankets, or artwork can make a big difference. Bring old decorations out of storage, frame family photos, or add greenery.

For a larger project, repurpose a room in your home, such

Pro Tips:

• Audit first and keep track of tasks you can handle versus those that need a pro.

• Declutter before buying new items.

• Go room by room to stay organized and avoid overwhelm.

• Set a budget for sustainable improvements.

as transforming a kids’ playroom into a library or a workspace. This low-effort transformation adds an entire room to your home, no construction required.

Constant repairs: Ignoring small issues can make daily life more complicated and create safety hazards. For any damage concerns, contact professionals to get ahead of the problem before it becomes a disaster.

Make your home work for you

So, where do you start? Shoshanna recommends beginning with inspiration. Design a vision board on Pinterest or with magazine cuttings. Flip through a home or interior design magazine, watch design shows, or meet with professional designers for ideas.

“Don’t limit yourself to just photos of homes and rooms,” Shoshanna says. “If you see a piece of artwork or clothing that moves you, add it to your board! This is a moment of self-discovery.”

Then, evaluate your home. Identify items to keep, remove, or replace to match your vision. Slowly introduce new items as old ones are removed.

Your home can support you through many stages of life. Create functional, inspiring spaces and see your home through new eyes. Happy decorating!

By Tonilyn Hornung | Photos by Melissa Donald

Pat Pendergrass: Flowers Make a Difference

If you’ve ordered flowers from Nanz and Kraft Florists, there’s a very good chance Pat Pendergrass was responsible for your bouquet. For more than 50 years, Pat has been a floral designer and trusted mentor at Louisville’s family flower shop. Pat remembers her first interview with owner Ramsey Kraft, down to what she wore that day. “He asked me to make an arrangement, and I did,” she says. Creating a thoughtful bouquet on the spot helped win Pat her job, and she’s been working with flowers ever since. “I love my job and never get tired of flowers — they’re just so pretty,” she says.

One fun fact about Nanz and Kraft…

We’re able to rush and get arrangements done, and I love problem-solving and being creative under pressure.

My hobbies are…

Right now, my grandchildren. I like to visit them when I’m not working. And I used to sew all my own clothes. When I was younger, I’d make an outfit and wear it the next day.

One thing I’ve learned over the years that remains true is…

Flowers are not a waste. I hear people say that giving flowers doesn’t serve a purpose, but when my mother passed, and also when I gave birth to my son, the flowers that people gave made a difference. It makes you really appreciate that people care enough to send flowers. Something as simple as a bud vase looks so pretty in the room and makes such a difference.

The best book I’ve ever read is…

War and Peace. I’ve read it twice, and it made an impact on me.

One thing I love about my job is…

Working with the people and different customers. Through the years, I’ve made quite a customer base, but of course, I’ve lost a great deal of my customers. One just passed recently, and I did all three of her daughters’ weddings. And I worked for one woman for years, and when she passed, I was able to do her funeral wreath. They even mentioned me at the funeral.

One thing I can’t get the knack of is…

Tatting. It’s a metal device you use to make lace, and I just never got the hang of it. My Memaw used to make little pieces of lace to send to my aunt in California, but no matter how hard I tried, I could never learn.

A meal I love to cook is…

Corned beef and cabbage with black-eyed peas, especially at Christmas dinner and now at New Year’s.

Zimmerman Art Glass on Chestnut Street is the second oldest family-run studio glass factory in the United States. The first Zimmerman to learn glass blowing was Ferdinand, arriving in the U.S. from France at age 10, in 1880. Although currently owned and operated by fourth-generation family member Kerry Zimmerman, the fifth generation is actively involved, and the sixth-generation “littles” — the grandchildren — are ready to jump in when the time is right.

CapitalCharm

A New Adventure

in an Old

Indiana City

Aday trip to Corydon, Indiana, in Harrison County is the perfect outlet for a spring adventure. Whether you love history, delicious food, a quaint small-town square, or the great outdoors, you’ll find it here. Stop by these six favorite recommendations in downtown Corydon.

Precious Lather’s products are created in-house using only natural oils, butters, essential oils, and fragrances that are phthalate-free. While strolling the square with my camera (always a conversation starter!) I met the owner of the shop, who invited me in where I was treated to a demonstration of soapmaking (eucalyptus mint — ah!).

Precious Lather was started in by husbandand-wife team Matthew & Brenda Shively. Located on Elm Street, the shop features personal care products, all-natural dish and laundry detergents, oils, and home fragrances.

Above: Fifth-generation glass blower Alex Zimmerman was at work in the shop and demonstrated making a glass vase from start to finish.

Lazy Cow Creamery and Sweets was full of happy customers of all ages enjoying an amazing variety of ice cream flavors, including PBJ and S’mores, as well as fresh-made shakes.

Kent Java Bar offers coffee drinks (using Louisville’s Quills coffee beans) and a place for visitors and locals to gather for work or pleasure. The shop also serves tea, hot chocolate, sodas, and smoothies.

Locally owned 1816 Modern Kitchen and Drinks fuses Southern classics and Asian flavors. Head chef Scott Dickenson has over 20 years of experience crafting artistic food using farm-to-table ingredients.

Top left: The showroom features all types of glassware from paperweights, vases, and bowls to commissioned items and holiday favorites.

There were so many eatery recommendations from locals. It really depends on what you’re hungry for.

Check out Bagel Girls (210 E Chestnut St) for breakfast or lunch bagels and wraps served inside or outdoors on the brick patio. KARV Meats on the same street is a combined butcher/restaurant owned and operated by the Brooks and Baker farm families of Harrison County. From farm to fork to frosty mug, every aspect of KARV reflects their commitment to humane and sustainable practices.

Outdoor fun to find

Harrison County boasts a bounty of farmers markets. One local favorite is Shireman’s Farm Market located on Old Highway 135. Shireman’s offers fresh produce, hanging baskets, trees, plants, and ice cream treats, including their special peach ice cream.

With over 32,000 feet of play space, Possibility Playground is the largest all-inclusive playground in the country with 18 slides, swings, and climbing areas. Championing the importance of accessibility, the playground adheres to the guidelines set by the Americans with Disabilities Act. This creates a fun space where children of all abilities can play and learn side by side. It’s located at the Hayswood Nature Reserve.

O’Bannon Woods State Park, formerly Wyandotte Woods Recreation Area, is a 2,300-acre park surrounded by the huge Harrison-Crawford State Forest. Here you’ll find hiking, a restored 1850s haypress, a nature center, a family aquatic center, a modern campground, and scenic views of the Ohio River.

Upcoming events not to miss!

The 10th Annual Spring Wine Walk will be held April 11. Stop by to try some wines and buy your favorites to take home with you! Samplings from wineries, food trucks, shopping, and good times will be had by all.

happening July 10-11 in downtown Corydon. This two-day celebration honors the county’s rich agricultural roots with a festive lineup that includes a parade, live music, a beer garden, local food and craft vendors, and of course, plenty of delicious popcorn.

For the history buffs...

In 1813, Corydon was selected as the second territorial capital of Indiana, and three years later it became the first state capital. The capital was moved to the more central location of Indianapolis in 1825, but the original Corydon capitol building still stands at 211 N Capitol Ave, the cornerstone of the town square.

Near the capitol building, the Constitutional Elm is the preserved, massive trunk of a historic tree under which 43 delegates drafted Indiana’s first state constitution in 1816. Located on West High Street, the tree provided a cool, shaded workspace during that summer’s intense heatwave.

Nine historic buildings from the 1816-1825 time period still stand. Another notable historical destination is the Battle of Corydon site, the only Civil War battle fought on Indiana soil.

& Visitors Bureau, just off the square in downtown Corydon, open daily from 9am-5pm. Discover insider info about what to do in the county, such as walking tour information, maps, and discount tickets to Indiana Caverns, Marengo Cave, and Squire Boone Caverns.

What’s Your Landscape Personality?

If you’ve ever looked around your neighborhood for inspiration for your landscape and felt underwhelmed, you’re not alone. Much of what we see in suburban landscapes today traces back to midcentury design principles that have been simplified over time into predictable formulas: a few hardy shrubs, wide stretches of mulch, and plants selected mostly for their ability to survive neglect. These landscapes are low-maintenance but rarely inspire.

On the other end of the spectrum are native plant gardens, which take seriously the responsibility of stewarding our planet, working with native plants, and supporting wildlife. Yet for some, they can feel visually chaotic, especially when plantings lack intentional structure. With these two extremes, it’s no wonder people don’t know where to start with their landscapes. The good news? You don’t have to choose between sterile and wild. Most landscape styles fall into a simple framework defined by two spectrums: Naturalistic to Formal and Traditional to Modern. See which style resonates with you the most.

Naturalistic + Modern

This style is rooted in the New Perennial movement, often associated with designers like Piet Oudolf. Think sweeping drifts of grasses and perennials, layered textures, and plantings that mimic nature but are thoughtfully composed. These landscapes celebrate seasonality, movement, and biodiversity while still maintaining an intentional design. If you love the look of prairies, meadows, and gardens that change beautifully through the year, this may be your style.

Naturalistic + Traditional

This is the cottage garden at heart: romantic, charming, overflowing with flowers. You might see flowering perennials, heirloom shrubs, and winding paths, all arranged in a way that feels timeless and personal.

Kayla Oldham Hammitt is a landscape architect, the owner of Firefly Exteriors, and an instructor at Prosser Career Education Center.

Formal + Modern

Clean lines, strong geometry, and a restrained plant palette define this personality. These spaces often feature structured layouts, repeated forms, and bold materials like concrete, steel, and stone. Think neatly arranged ornamental grasses, sculptural trees, and minimal color schemes. This style appeals to those who love simplicity, order, and a contemporary aesthetic that feels polished and architectural.

Formal + Traditional

This is the classic garden many people picture: symmetrical layouts, defined beds, clipped hedges, and a sense of permanence. Inspired by historic estates and traditional European gardens, these landscapes emphasize structure and balance. If you’re drawn to order, tradition, and elegance, this personality might resonate most.

LIVING OPTIONS: BLOOM SOMEWHERE NEW

Looking for a new place to call home? This directory of low-maintenance housing options includes condos, garden apartments, and retirement/independent living communities. Find more at TodaysTransitions.com/searchliving. All costs are per month.

The Altenheim

The Altenheim has apartment suites for independent living. Apartments have an efficiency kitchenette, full bath with shower. All apartments have emergency call cords and offer emergency pendants. Linen service, housekeeping, personal laundry service and meals are provided at no additional charge. Recreational, educational, social, and religious services are also available.

Cost: $2354

Owner: The Altenheim

936 Barret Ave, Louisville, KY 40204 (502) 584-7417 • thealtenheim.org

Christian Care Communities — Middletown

2025 Senior Advisor Award Winner. Our active seniors live very independently in lovely garden homes and spacious apartments. Take advantage of all a senior living community has to offer, including maintenance-free homes, wellness programs, spiritual care and security. Our serene setting is close to shopping and dining, yet offers a private parklike feel in a close-knit community with plenty of delicious food and fun, engaging activities. Assisted Living suites available.

Cost: Prices vary depending on floor plan • Min. Age: 62

Owner: Christian Care Communities, Inc. (since 1884)

11530 Herrick Ln, Louisville, KY 40243 (502) 254-1799 • Middletown.ChristianCareCommunities.org

Brownsboro Park Retirement Community

Family owned & operated since 1986, several spacious floor plans, located on 14 beautiful acres with a park, walking trail and fishing pond. Warm, friendly residents, spacious apartments with great closets, activities to keep your mind entertained and your body in shape, housekeeping, extensive shuttle program that runs 7 days a week and excellent chef-prepared meals. All-inclusive pricing (includes all utilities, phone, cable, internet & personal alert pendant).

Cost: $2500-$3800 • Min. Age: 62

Owner: Bunker Hill Assoc. III, LLC

2960 Goose Creek, Louisville, KY 40241 (502) 429-7700 • brownsboropark.com

Dudley Square Patio Homes at Episcopal Church Home

Independent living means freedom, convenience, and peace of mind in a beautiful, friendly community for adults 62+. Enjoy the privacy of your own patio home, surrounded by landscaped grounds and welcoming neighbors. Every home includes an emergency call system with on-campus medical services. Outpatient care can be arranged in your home or at the Clubhouse fitness center. On-campus restaurant with delivery to your door. All faiths welcome. Experience the difference and schedule your no-cost tour today!

Owner: Episcopal Retirement Services

7504 Westport Rd, Louisville, KY 40222 (502) 736-7800 • episcopalchurchhome.org

LIVING OPTIONS

Looking for a new place to call home? This directory of low-maintenance housing options includes condos, garden apartments, and retirement/independent living communities. Find more at TodaysTransitions.com/searchliving. All costs are per month.

Forest Springs Health Campus

Steps away from our full-continuum of care, villa patio homes offer housekeeping; lawn maintenance; fitness center and clubhouse; medical alert pendant, a full calendar of activities and excursions; Villa Lifestyle Director; pet-friendly.

Min. Age: 55

Owner: Trilogy Health Services, LLC

4120 Wooded Acre Ln, Louisville, KY 40245 (502) 694-7092 • forestspringshc.com

The Grand Senior Living

Resort style living, luxurious apartments, spacious closets, extra storage available, garage & golf cart garage rental, utilities & appliances included, patios/balconies, weekly housekeeping, 24-hour concierge, pet spa, salon & barber shop, fitness center, indoor heated pool, sun deck, putting green, club house, recreational activities, theater, cocktail lounge, terrace, shuttle service, continental breakfast, chef prepared gourmet meals, easy access to dining, shopping, entertainment, & health care, Signature Passion Program.

Cost: Starting at $4010+ • Min. Age: 55 Owner: Management, Civitas Senior Living 9300 Civic Way, Prospect, KY 40059 (502) 289-8370 • thegrand-sl.com

Nazareth Home — Clifton Campus

Located at our Clifton Campus, Nazareth Home offers newly renovated independent living apartments in a welcoming, service-rich community that fosters comfort, connection, and convenience. Each one-bedroom apartment provides ample living space and a full bath, with utilities included. Our amenities include three daily meals, housekeeping and laundry services, use of common area, on-site parking, on-site chapel and services, outdoor green space with courtyards, nearby shopping and restaurants on Frankfort Ave.

Cost: $2400 • Min. Age: 55

Owner: Nazareth Home, Inc.

2120 Payne St, Louisville, KY 40206 (502) 895-9425 • nazhome.org

/ TodaysTransitions.com

The Forum at Brookside

Everything you love and need — a beautiful forty acre gated senior living community! People walk into our community feeling a sense of warmth and welcome. A place that feels like home. The Forum at Brookside is about hospitality, and a carefree lifestyle. Amenities include chef prepared meals, room service, housekeeping, social activities,indoor heated pool, pet friendly, transportation, security, an experienced management staff,and support with medical care as needed.

Cost: $2900-$5700 • Min. Age: 55

Owner: Sinceri Senior Living

200 Brookside Dr, Louisville, KY 40243 (502) 245-3048 • theforumatbrookside.com

Mariella Apartments at Loretto Living Center

Independent Senior Living units located on the 800-acre Loretto Motherhouse campus. Each unit has a handicap-accessible bathroom with shower and a kitchenette with microwave and refrigerator. Rent includes utilities, use of laundry, cable TV, phone, and WiFi at no additional charge. Monthly meal plans are available in the dining room. Residents stay connected with access to the Motherhouse campus and community events.

Cost: $1000-$2000 • Min. Age: 65 Owner: Loretto Living Center at Loretto Motherhouse, Inc.

466 Academy Lane, Nerinx, KY 40049 (270) 865-5811 • lorettolivingcenter.org

Sacred Heart Village Apartments

Secured 540 sq. ft. 1 BR efficiency units located in both the Clifton & Cane Run Road areas. Dining room, meeting rooms, library and sitting areas and on-site laundry, appliances, walk-in shower, individually controlled heat and A/C, pets accepted with restrictions. Handicapped accessible units if available. Water & electric included. Income limitations apply. Call for details.

Cost: income based • Min. Age: 62

Owner: Mercy Housing 2110 Payne St, Louisville, KY 40206 (502) 895-6409 • facebook.com/SacredHeartVillage

Treyton Oak Towers

Retirement is a time to enjoy life to the fullest. For many people, that means setting aside all the duties and responsibilities that come with maintaining a home, and spending time simply enjoying all life has to offer. Choose from 14 different one-, two-or three-bedroom plans, all available with wall-to-wall flooring options, window treatments and completely equipped kitchens. Our comfortable apartments allow residents to find the perfect balance between vibrant community life and a high degree of privacy.

Cost: $3820-$7600 • Min. Age: 62

Owner: Third & Oak Corporation

211 West Oak St, Louisville, KY 40203 (502) 589-3211 • treytonoaktowers.com

The Village at Wesley Manor

Nestled on 35 acres, The Village at Wesley Manor blends traditional living with the harmony of nature and 21st century conveniences. Our community provides two and a half miles of walking trails weaving through mature trees, lawns and natural meadows. Tucked into this picturesque setting, The Village at Wesley Manor offers three floor plans to satisfy your retirement needs and dreams — all with a new, relaxed, carefree independent living lifestyle.

Cost: Approx. $600 monthly maintenance charge upon entrance fee payment • Min. Age: 65

Owner: Methodist Retirement Homes of Kentucky, Inc. 5012 E Manslick Rd, Louisville, KY 40219 (502) 964-7498 • wesman.org

Village Crossing Retirement Community

Discover a community that encourages connection, comfort, and independence! We’re committed to making the most of your golden years with all-inclusive services, indulgent dining, and vibrant social living all wrapped up in one monthly payment. With everything taken care of by our expert team, you can focus on celebrating the moments that matter.

Schedule a tour and join us for lunch. You’ll see why Village Crossing is the ideal choice for independent senior living in Louisville.

Min. Age: 55

Owner: Resort Lifestyle Communities

2400 Arnold Palmer Blvd, Louisville, KY 40245 (502) 208-1527 • VillageCrossingRetirement.com

THIS CAN BE YOUR AD!

Your independent living or condo community would look sweet right here.

We want to help connect your community to people looking to move to a maintenance-free living space.

We also have a comprehensive list of Living Options online at TodaysTransitions.com.

By Carrie Vittitoe

We’ve all heard the adage that a person’s home is their castle, and that implies that a home is a sanctuary, a space that provides shelter and safety. Even if our homes aren’t besieged by raiders, there are more insidious forces that can threaten our well-being, such as chronic stress.

Perhaps caregivers know better than anyone how quickly stress can wear a person down, and this is recognized by mental health experts. As licensed clinical psychologist Dr. David Susman notes about caregiving in Psychology Today, “the tasks involved require long hours, physical stamina, sustained concentration, and emotional investment.”

A caregiver may not find many opportunities to get away for any extended period of time, which is why it might make sense to create a sanctuary-type space within one’s home. This space can be tailored to the specific preferences of the caregiver, providing a haven that they can escape to for even 10 minutes at a time.

Creating a sanctuary

There isn’t one set way that someone’s sanctuary space has to be or look. “I think it can look very different to each person, based on their needs and lifestyle,” says interior designer Christy Maser. “The most important element in making a space feel like a sanctuary is that it reflects the homeowner’s personality.”

A sanctuary space could be a small sitting area off a bedroom, or a bedroom turned into a library. But it doesn’t have to be an indoor space at all. It could be a porch with a bed swing that looks out over the trees in the backyard. Or it could be an outdoor garden with a small walking path.

Designing a sanctuary could be an expensive endeavor, but it certainly doesn’t have to be. Christy suggests that if there are no budget limits, new furniture that gives the user a sense of comfort would be ideal. But she also notes that color is one of the fastest ways to shift how a space feels. “Different color palettes support different emotions,” she says.

Taking inspiration from nature can also help in limited spaces. If a caregiver loves the outdoors but doesn’t have the ability to create a lush garden, creating a small indoor nook filled with plants and natural elements such as handwoven baskets, or adding some foliage wallpaper, could provide a sense of relaxation.

Even if you can’t create an entire designated space, putting together a small coping box or basket can be a mood-lifter. “Put in a favorite lotion with a relaxing scent, photos of places or people that make you smile, a fidget or puzzle book, a candle, and pair this box with music you like, [and it] can change your mood in about 15 minutes,” says Louisville psychologist Dr. Alex Pruitt.

“THE MOST IMPORTANT ELEMENT IN MAKING A SPACE FEEL LIKE A SANCTUARY IS THAT IT REFLECTS [YOUR] PERSONALITY.”

How to use your sanctuary

Having a sanctuary space works best when a caregiver uses it intentionally, says Dr. Tyler Tims, psychologist at Eastern Kentucky University Counseling Center. “Intentionality is the key behind it — taking intentional time to focus on yourself,” he says. But he adds that keeping that space protected is also critical. Just as we are encouraged to only use our beds for sleeping to ensure higher-quality sleep, keeping a sanctuary space just for relaxation helps our bodies tune in to calmness when we are in that space. “If someone is to create a sanctuary space in their home, the hope is that it is a protected space where [you] don’t do other things,” Dr. Tims says.

CALMING COLORS

Interior designer Christy Maser shares her favorite paint colors for a peaceful space.

Shining a Light on Dementia

Adria Thompson created Be Light Care as a way to shed light on what can feel like a dark and scary subject: dementia. Now this speech pathologist and educator based in Corbin, Kentucky, shares her expertise primarily through short, practical videos that help make everyday moments easier for the caregivers of loved ones with dementia. What do you say when your person with dementia asks about someone who has died? How can you visit someone with dementia when you can’t understand what they’re saying very well? Adria discusses and demonstrates the answers to questions like these in her free, 90-second videos shared on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

Adria’s “micro-learning” approach has struck a nerve in the world of dementia care, as evidenced by her rapidly growing audience of over 700,000 followers. (If you’re on social media and someone you love has dementia, go follow her now and start learning how to make things better!)

We had the privilege of talking with Adria about improving the lives of people with dementia and their caregivers.

Tell us about your story.

When I worked as a speech-language pathologist in different long-term care communities all over Kentucky, I noticed this pattern where patients who were always labeled ‘difficult’ or ‘problematic’ — they had the common diagnosis of dementia. Their needs were slipping through the cracks, and no one knew what to do with them.

Then, my grandmother started showing signs of dementia. It was the culmination that professionally and personally, I needed to know more about dementia. I started diving in to learn everything I could, and I started Be Light Care as a consulting

“WE CAN SEPARATE WHAT IS HAPPENING IN THEIR BRAIN VERSUS THE HUMAN WE KNOW AND HAVE LOVED ALL THESE YEARS. THIS CAN BE LIFECHANGING.”

role. I wanted to show my expertise, so I started making videos about situations you might encounter and tips that could help.

I had no expectation that anyone outside of people I knew would like it, but I started realizing quickly that this was needed.

Why do we need better dementia education?

I think the most loving thing we can do for someone with dementia is educate ourselves about the condition. I am a firm believer that education and understanding is the foundation for good dementia care.

There’s a phrase in the world of dementia that’s unfortunate but true: the majority of people experience ‘Diagnose, and adios.’ They go to the doctor, have a 10-minute session and are told they have Alzheimer’s, then it’s, ‘Here’s a pamphlet, get your affairs in order, and we’ll see you in a year for a checkup.’ I’ve heard that description a thousand times.

So when someone is not given any more information other than a label, there are so many questions that are unanswered. Often the people who are the primary caregiver, they have no training. They don’t get a degree, they don’t have a job position. They are just left to figure things out for themselves.

There is such a stigma and fear around dementia, so it’s a unique topic to jump on social media and start talking about in a confident and even positive way. It could be the first time that a person feels any kind of hope. And, accessibility is really important to me because caregivers are often stretched thin, so 90 seconds or less and free — it feels doable.

You talk a lot about how dementia causes the brain to change. How does learning about that help a caregiver?

I feel like there is a need to translate the behaviors, the choices that people with dementia make, and reflect the things that are going on in their brain. An example is, maybe we see someone who has all these symptoms of dementia.

By Jessica Alyea

They can’t keep up with their house, their hygiene and personality have changed, and from the outside there is so much evidence. But they say, ‘I’m fine, and I don’t know what you’re talking about.’ The natural way we perceive that is, That’s denial. Denial tells us that the person could understand but is choosing not to. And the attitude we have toward people in denial is mostly frustration.

But neurologically, we can see there are certain parts of the brain that are responsible for being selfaware. Understanding ourselves and what’s going on also requires memory and is a complex cognitive process. I like to talk about anosognosia, the term for being medically unable to understand. The person does not have the capacity anymore to understand.

We can show up more compassionately then. We can turn frustration from pointing toward the person with dementia, and we can point it more toward the disease, and have compassion toward the person. We can separate what is happening in their brain versus the human we know and have loved for all these years. This can be life-changing.

What are some of the biggest misconceptions about dementia that you encounter?

A big misconception would be that care can always be done best at home. I say that because I feel like caregivers need to hear and be given permission to ask for help. Often they feel like they have to be able to do and know it all. It’s important to know that people with dementia benefit from being home in their routine, but at the end of the day, they benefit from being around others who are safe, loving, and not burnt out. Sometimes the best thing a caregiver can do is ask for help outside themselves.

There’s a statistic that caregivers of people with dementia die a lot faster than others their own age. So caregiving is a life-threatening situation, to be honest. Specifically spouses: 40% of them die before the person they’re caring for. When someone feels that there’s no hope, no options, they have a high stress level and they are not going to the doctor for themselves — it becomes a medically dangerous situation. So, asking for help is actually a very caring thing to do.

What is something you wish everyone could know about caring for someone with dementia?

I just hope that people know that there’s always hope. I always try to encourage people, even in those moments when we’re really frustrated, we frame it as, ‘I haven’t found what works yet.’ Dementia is everchanging. There’s always hope that you can learn something new or that another support or resource might come.

And, people with dementia can still experience joy, regardless of how severe it is. There are always moments that can be filled with joy.

For Those Who Care

This is a discussive and supportive space for those who are caring for their loved ones. As caregivers, we collectively remember that not everything has a solution, but most things can be improved.

Q: My dad won’t take his medicine on time, and it is making his health problems worse. What can help?

A: This is a common problem that could be caused by forgetting or by not believing taking pills actually matters. I have a friend who used to call her mother every day at medicine time and listen to her taking the pills. There are other options out there, such as automatic medicine dispensers and pill bottles with timers on them. Some pharmacies can even sort multiple prescriptions into pill packs, with medications already correctly combined and with the date and time on the package.

Q: My mother is having trouble walking, but she is still able to walk without help or with an occasional cane. I do notice she is walking less because she is afraid, or maybe it’s just hard for her. I’m not sure if we should get a walker or other device to help her, or would that be overhelping and not encouraging her to improve?

A: I once heard a doctor say, “The sooner you invest in equipment that will keep you moving, the better your quality of life.” I previously thought my loved one should push themselves rather than start relying on an assistive device. But what that doctor said changed my thinking. (Of course, you should bring this up to your own medical provider as well.) You can also consider hiring a physical therapist or a trainer who understands limited movement. If you do go the walker route, in my experience, a rollator type of walker with a seat for resting is the superior choice.

A spring outing

A drive-through experience is often perfect for a loved one with limited mobility. Consider a drive through the Parklands of Floyds Fork to see the hills, trees, and blooming flowers. Or push your loved one in a wheelchair through Waterfront Park or across the Big Four Bridge to see the sunrise or sunset.

Soften the sitting

If you or your loved one sit a lot because of limited mobility, start thinking now about how to prevent skin breakdown and boost comfort. Often, even the big cushy recliners don’t offer enough support, but you can get a therapeutic cushion that changes the game. We love the ROHO, which has specialized ‘cells’ filled with air that adapt to the body and help alleviate pressure going to one area. They come in a variety of versions, so you will need to research to choose the correct one.

An entertaining visit

When you visit a friend who is having health issues, consider reading to them or listening to an audiobook together. Or, choose a book that you both read beforehand and then discuss it when you come to visit. An alternative is to watch a movie together. It can be normalizing to do something you used to do with each other.

PAGE 64 >>

“BEING DEEPLY LOVED BY SOMEONE GIVES YOU STRENGTH, WHILE LOVING SOMEONE DEEPLY GIVES YOU COURAGE.”

– LAO TZU

Morning sun

We often hear about the benefits of morning sun — how it helps your mood, your sleep, and your overall health. As a caregiver, you can encourage your loved one to take a cup of coffee outside in the sun to start the day — and make sure you are doing it for yourself, too.

How Your Loved One Could Use an iPad

An iPad or other tablet might be the perfect accessory for someone who is more confined than they used to be. The learning curve might be challenging, but with an iPad, your loved one can:

• Communicate through texts, video calls, social media, even a digital photo album others can add photos to

Good fiber

We need about 25-30 grams of fiber every day, and that can be especially important when dealing with health issues. Keep looking for ways to add fiber. Here are a few quick ideas:

1 cup raspberries = 8g fiber

¼ cup almonds/cashews = 3g fiber

3.5 cups popcorn = 4g fiber

• Read an e-book (library apps often have free ones available with a library card) or digital magazine

• Play games that support cognition or allow connection with others online

• Listen to music, podcasts, meditation apps, and audiobooks

• Exercise through virtual movement classes, such as chair exercises

• Be reminded about medications through reminder and timer apps

For ease of use and less swiping, you can get a ‘one-button’ experience on any iPad, even those without a physical button, by enabling AssistiveTouch in the settings. There are also ways to simplify the user interface, such as hiding unused apps and adding shortcuts to call go-to people.

Accessories that can help:

Apps to try:

Consider your loved one’s interests and search for apps in those areas. Some ideas:

• Kindle

• NYT games

• Words With Friends

• Spotify or Apple Music

• Jigsaw puzzle

• National Park Service

• Cornell Lab Merlin bird ID

• Silver Sneakers GO

• Grocery shopping list apps such as Bring (a free one!) or their local store

• LastPass to keep passwords straight

• AirPods Pro can be used to amplify sound with the Live Listen feature, and Apple is introducing clinical-grade hearing aid features.

• Stands: Adjustable, magnetic stands such as MOFT stands can secure the iPad to surfaces and position the screen better. A specialized stylus, such as the Cosmonaut wide-grip stylus, can help with tapping and drawing.

Erasing Your Digital Footprint and Why it Matters

If you’ve ever visited a website, paid a bill online, sent an email, or posted on Facebook, you’ve created a digital footprint — the trail of information that records your online activity. Some of this data is shared intentionally, like when you make a purchase. Other information is collected quietly in the background through website browsing history, cookies, and location tracking.

What many don’t realize is that your digital footprint doesn’t disappear when you stop using the internet. Unless you take steps to remove it, your online accounts and information can remain active indefinitely, even after you or a loved one has passed away.

According to cybersecurity expert Jeff Chandler, CEO of Z-JAK Technologies, this lingering digital presence can create real risks, particularly for older adults. Inactive or forgotten accounts are prime targets for cybercriminals.

“Email accounts end up being the key to accessing most of your digital footprint,” Jeff explains. “Unused accounts are vulnerable and provide criminals with an easy way to access your financial and personal data. It’s important to take action and make sure you stay in control of your digital footprint.”

How to manage a digital footprint

According to Jeff, whether you’re organizing your own online life or helping a parent or loved one, these steps can protect personal information and help prevent fraud.

• Secure devices first. Keep phones, tablets, and computers in a secure place.

• Protect email accounts. Email is the gateway to nearly every online account, controlling password resets, billing notices, and more. Secure an email account by changing the password and enabling multi-factor authentication. When handling the accounts of a loved one, continue to monitor their email for bills and important notices. Email should usually be one of the last accounts closed, not the first.

• Remember: nothing closes itself. Online accounts, subscriptions, and profiles stay active until someone manually shuts them down. This includes shopping sites, cloud storage, social media, and streaming services.

• Save memories before deleting. Download photos, videos, and important documents before closing accounts. Once an account is deleted, these items may be lost forever.

• Watch for silent subscriptions. Streaming services, cloud storage, and apps often continue billing long after they’re forgotten. These recurring charges can quietly drain bank accounts.

When a loved one has passed away

Inactive accounts are easy targets for identity thieves who look for opportunities in the months following a death, so it’s important to act quickly, Jeff advises.

While managing a digital footprint is now a standard part of estate and elder care planning, families need to be prepared with essential documents and information such as account passwords, he says.

• Proof is required. Most companies require a death certificate or legal authority to close accounts. Having documentation ready prevents delays and reduces stress.

• Planning ahead makes everything easier. Discussing digital accounts with someone now may feel uncomfortable, but it saves time, money, and emotional strain later. Make sure passwords for all accounts are stored in a safe location and are accessible to loved ones responsible for managing and closing accounts. Taking action now will help ensure that your digital life stays safely in your control.

HOME CAREGIVING DIRECTORY

When you need help caring for someone you love, trust is important — you are trusting the caregiver with someone you hold dear. Whether your loved one needs skilled nursing care or simply companionship, caregivers who have been vetted, trained, and who are backed by a reliable company help bring peace of mind.

Search more directories online at TodaysTransitions.com.

BrightStar Care

406 Blankenbaker Pkwy, Ste G Louisville, KY 40243 (502) 893-4700 louisvillehomecare.org

CareBuilders at Home

2210 Goldsmith Ln, Ste 209 Louisville, KY 40218 (502) 458-2273

carebuildersathomelouisville.com

Caring Excellence Personalized Home Care Services

1169 Eastern Pky, Ste 1134, Louisville, KY 40217 (502) 208-9424 caringexcellenceathome.com

Heartsong Adult Day and Home Care

9300 Stonestreet Rd, Ste 700, Louisville, KY 40272 (502) 935-3300 heartsong-mc.com

Helping Hands Companion Care Services

2301 Hurstbourne Village Dr #100 Louisville, KY 40299 (502) 426-9783 home-companions.com

Home Instead

4101 Taylorsville Rd, Ste 200, Louisville, KY 40220 (502) 515-9515 louisvillehomecare.com

Joint Commission Accredited. High quality skilled & non-skilled in home care for people of all ages. All care is overseen by a Registered Nurse and is available 1-24 hrs/ day with Guaranteed Caregiver Compatibility. Compassionate care, excellent service.

Services: personal care, homemaker, transportation, errands, Alzheimer’s/dementia care, Parkinson’s, ALS, respite, med reminders, meal prep, end of life care, RN/geriatric case management, skilled nursing.

Price per hour: $32-$36 | Min. time required: 4 hrs

Type: Non-medical, skilled nursing | Owner: Christian & Leslie McCutcheon

Compassionate, customized, coordinated care; State Certified Personal Service Agency, Help at home for independence, post-rehab recovery, Alzheimer’s/Dementia Care, Parkinson’s, respite, sitter service any location; 1-to-1 for med appointments, companion

Services: personal care, homemaker, transportation, errands

Price per hour: $30-$34 | Min. time required: 3 hrs

Type: Non-medical | Owner: Laura Curry and Michael Coffey

Locally owned, Consistent Caregivers, Caregiver Matching and RN Case Management. Senior Care, Parkinson’s Care, Dementia Care, After-Hospital Care, and End-of-Life Care. Services are provided in your own home, Independent or Assisted Living, Personal or Memory Care, Skilled Care, Rehab or Hospital. All care directed by Registered Nurse and Master Level Social Worker.

Services: All personal and hygiene care, all mobility needs, meal prep, homemaking, medication reminders, exercise assistance, errands, transportation, companionship

Price per hour: $28.75+ No long-term contract. | Min. time required: Flexible up to 24/7 Type: Non-medical | Owner: Kayla Cook, RN, Elisabeth Knight, MSSW

Proven excellence providing care at our place or yours by experienced, trained staff with the goal of keeping your loved one at home in the community.

Services: Adult day health care center; in-home personal care, light housekeeping, meal prep, med reminders, and some errands & transportation

Price: ADHC $88/day or Medicaid; In-home Care Medicaid HCB waiver

Type: Medical ADHC; Non-medical In-home Care

Owner: Heartsong Memory Care, LLC

Personalized loving care available in home, assisted living, nursing home or hospital; scheduling up to 24 hours 7 days a week; trained and experienced caregivers; free assessments; serving Kentucky and Southern Indiana since 1996.

Services: personal care, home making, transportation, errands, respite, med reminders, end-of-life care

Price per hour: $32+ | Min. time required: Flexible Type: Non-medical | Owner: Terry Graham, RN; Dawn Smithwick, BSW

We have proudly provided Home Care Services to the Louisville Community for 25+ years. We are committed to providing personalized care in the comfort of the home you love! Call today for a complimentary consultation.

Services: Available 24/7; personal care, post-rehab support, companionship, transportation, Alzheimer’s/dementia care, and end of life support provided. EVERY client will be assigned a Client Care Manager. Trusted & Credentialed Partner with the VA.

Price per hour: $33+/hr and we offer special rate for Couples Care

Min. time required: flexible up to 24/7

Type: Non-medical Home Care Services | Owner: Ben Karakunnel

Homewatch CareGivers

2001 Stanley Gault Pkwy, Ste C Louisville, KY 40223 (502) 244-1212 hwcg.com/Louisville

Hosparus Health

6200 Dutchmans Lane Louisville, KY 40205 (502) 456-6200 HosparusHealth.org

Kentuckiana Home Care

126 S. Sherrin Ave Louisville 40207 (502) 897-6547 kentuckianahomecare.com

Nazareth At Home

2000 Newburg Rd Louisville, KY 40205 502-459-9681 nazarethathome.org

Nova Leap Home Health

10503 Timberwood Cir, Ste 101 Louisville, KY 40223 (502) 244-8446 novaleaphealth.com

Senior HelpersLouisville/Southern Indiana

1902 Campus Place, Suite 9

Louisville, KY 40299 (502) 690-2648 seniorhelpers.com

Search more home caregiving services online by scanning the QR code.

Fully trained and experienced CNA’s/Caregivers, on-staff Certified Dementia Practitioners, complimentary evaluations, customized care plan, company with 30 years of home care experience, Alzheimer’s/Dementia expertise, Five Star reviews

Services: personal care, homemaker, transportation, errands

Price per hour: $27-$32 | Min. time required: 4 consecutive hours

Type: non-medical | Owner: Steve and Trish Kochersperger

For over 45 years Hosparus Health has been helping patients and families dealing with a serious illness to live life to the fullest. Our patient-centered care means a better quality of life.

Services: hospice and palliative services, pain and symptom mgmt, social workers, spiritual care, CNA’s, grief counseling services, and volunteer program

Price: Medicare accepted rate | Min. time required: N/A

Type: Medical | Owner: Hosparus Inc.

Customized Care by reliable and experienced caregivers. Total scheduling flexibility and a tailored care plan, including integral client communication. Free assessment! Services: Bathing & Dressing Assistance, Light Housekeeping, Companionship, Meal Prep, Laundry, Errands & Transportation, Alzheimer’s care, Fall Prevention, Med Reminders, Respite Care for Families, Transitional & Rehab Care, Overnight Care, End-ofLife and Specialized Care

Price per hour: $23-$30 | Min. time required: Flexible

Type: Non-medical | Owner: Andy Block, locally owned & operated

Nazareth at Home empowers seniors to live independently in the place they love. We provide personalized, compassionate in-home services that cater to each individual’s unique needs, ensuring they age gracefully while maintaining their quality of life. Committed to excellence and the power of meaningful moments, we strive to make every day fulfilling and enriching for the seniors we serve.

Services: In-Home personalized care and support.

Price per hour: Negotiated | Min. time required: Flexible

Type: non-medical | Owner: Nazareth Home

Nova Leap Home Health has provided compassionate and professional home care in Louisville and Southern Indiana for over 40 years. We are experienced with LTC Insurance, VA Benefits, and private pay. No hour or shift minimums. Our staff completes annual certified Alzheimer’s and dementia training. Call for a complimentary assessment. Services: personal care, 24-hour service, respite relief, concierge services, homemaking, meal prep, laundry, Dementia Care, Parkinson’s support, transportation, errands, companionship, transition nurturance, end-of-life aid and comfort, and appointments.

Price per hour: Services begin at $36/hr and we offer a special rate for Couple Care. Type: Non-medical | Owner: Nova Leap Health

Locally Owned, licensed and insured with excellent service and compassionate caregivers trained how to keep SENIORS SAFE AT HOME! Call today for a FREE Life Profile consultation — the first step in reducing risks and hospital admissions!

Services: Flexible schedules helping with personal care, companionship, transportation, errands, med reminders, meal prep, housekeeping, Dementia care, end of life support. Accepting private pay, LTC ins., VA, ABI and HCB Medicaid Waivers.

Price per hour: $25-$30 | Min. time required: Flexible Type: Non-medical Home Care Services | Owner: Nancy Galloway

CARE COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

Today’s Transitions seeks to help you find the right care you need for a loved one whenever you need it. The Care Communities Directory contains both short- and long-term carerelated resources. More details can be found at TodaysTransitions.com.

For Home Caregiving Directory, see page 68. For retirement Living Options Directory, see page 52.

TYPES OF CARE COMMUNITIES: Adult Day Care programs provide care and companionship to those who need supervision or assistance. Aging-In-Place Communities offer several levels of care on one campus.

Assisted Living is residential living for those who need help with daily activities and health services. Hospice provides pain relief for those with a terminal illness and a life expectancy of six months or less. Memory Care residential living is for those with dementia at different care levels. Palliative Care is specialized medical care for people living with a serious illness. Personal Care residential living offers mobile residents minimal assistance for daily activities. Rehabilitation Services is physical treatment in an inpatient or outpatient clinic. Skilled Nursing Care is 24-hour nursing services for residents in a care community Respite Care provides short-term care in order to provide relief for primary caregivers.

Search our care community directory online by scanning the QR code.

Find Help By Location

Search the Location Chart (on the right page) for specific types of care by location. The Map (right) coordinates with the Zone column. More details for all care communities listed in the chart can be found in the full directory listing starting on page 64.

If you are interested in a listing, email teri@todaystransitions.com.

*Published rates are given by company.

Payment Options: These definitions can help you navigate the payment options in each directory:

Private – consumer pays out-of-pocket.

Private Ins. – could include Medicare supplements or HMOs/health insurance.

LTCi – long-term care insurance; helps cover the cost of services for people who have an extended physical illness, extended disability, or cognitive impairment.

VA – Veterans Administration; provides financial assistance to retired veterans needing medical, surgical, and rehabilitative care.

The Altenheim

936 Barret Ave, Louisville, KY 40204

(502) 584-7417

thealtenheim.org

Price Per Day: $100-$411

Number of Beds: 32 (N/R), 30 (PC)

Enjoy our beautiful Highlands park-like setting with updated furnishings no matter your living arrangements – independent, assisted, personal care, nursing/rehab or short-term stay. We offer a secure, lockdown building for resident safety. Our selective menus offer a variety of options. Staffing levels are above expectations and truthfully make us what we are today! Our Aging-in-Place community offers an above average staff-to-resident ratio, allowing time for visits with residents as well as necessary care. Hosparus care supports our staff when requested. We specialize in activity programs for residents offered by trained staff and volunteers. Our Personal Care option provides the independence of living at home.

Owner: The Altenheim

Payment: Private, LTCi

Features and Services: 24-Hour Care, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Tours/Trips, Medication Given, Pets

Considered, Chef on Staff, Laundry

The Ashton on Dorsey 1105 Dorsey Ln, Louisville, KY 40223 (502) 653-8111 theashtonondorsey.com

Price Per Month: $4399+

Number of Beds: 98

In our Assisted Living residents enjoy the perfect balance of independence and support in beautifully appointed private apartments. With 24-hour personal care and clinical oversight, we provide the stability and safety that bring peace of mind to residents and their families. Our dedicated, licensed caregivers are always available to assist with daily activities, offering personalized care that respects each individual’s needs and preferences.

Our specialized Memory Care offers a secure and nurturing environment tailored to those living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Residents benefit from structured routines and the support of compassionate, specially trained staff.

Owner: Sonida Senior Living

Payment: Private, LTCi, VA, Hospice

Features and Services: Transportation, Showers, House Cleaning, Bathing & Dressing Assistance, Laundry, Meal Prep, Errands, 24-Hr Care, Physical/Occupational/Speech Therapy, Dining Room, Exercise Facility, Game Night, Happy Hour, Tours/Trips, Emergency Assistance, Medication Given, Open Kitchen, Outdoor Spaces, Garden, Pets Allowed, Movie Room, Chef on Staff

Autumn Woods Health Campus

2911 Green Valley Road, New Albany, IN 47150 (812) 941-9893 • trilogyhs.com/senior-living/in/ new-albany/autumn-woods-health-campus

Price Per Month: Visit our website or call for current pricing.

Full continuum of care, short-term care, therapy services on-site.

Owner: Trilogy Health Services, LLC

Payment: Private, Medicare, Medicaid, LTCi

Barton House 6830 Overlook Dr, Louisville, KY 40241 (502) 423-7177 • bartonlouisville.com

Price Per Month: $8,500 all-inclusive

Celebrating 25 years of care and compassion! Our community is a family, and we strive to help every resident feel loved and cared for. Designed for those with Alzheimer’s & memory impairments, we fill our days with enriching experiences and activities that enhance physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness. Our priority is to give our residents dignified & individualized care, from the activities they participate in to how their room is decorated. Residents can enjoy pets to love & care for, frequent meals promoting socialization, and our tree-filled backyard with a patio and walking path.

Our staff is trained in our holistic approach to dementia, “Compassionate Communication,” which respects and honors our residents’ experiences while working to preserve their cognitive acuity. Medical care is provided by our nurses, therapists, psychiatrist & doctor.

Owner: Goodworks

Payment: Private, LTCi

Features and Services: Showers, House Cleaning, Bathing & Dressing Assistance, Eating Help, Laundry, Meal Prep, 24-Hr Care, Physical/ Occupational/Speech Therapy, Dining Room, Emergency Assistance, Medication Given, Outdoor Spaces, Chef on Staff

BeeHive Homes of Goshen/Prospect

12336 US Hwy 42, Goshen, KY 40026 (502) 292-3200 • beehivehomes.com/goshen

Price Per Month: $4500

24/7 care, low resident-to-staff ratio, home atmosphere, no care increases

Owner: Eric and Catherine Sherrard

Payment: Private, LTCi, VA

Belmont Village St. Matthews

4600 Bowling Blvd, Louisville, KY 40207

(502) 721-7500

belmontvillage.com

Price Per Day: $140-$340

Belmont Village St. Matthews is home to the perfect blend of comfort, personalized care and active living. Our community offers personal care and memory care in Louisville. Nestled in the heart of the St. Matthews area, our beautifully landscaped senior living community is surrounded by premier dining, shopping and entertainment along with numerous places of worship. Here, you’re surrounded by a dedicated team who provides a wide spectrum of care, including our award-winning Circle of Friends program for Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Every Belmont Village community is licensed to the highest standard—this means couples with different care needs can stay together. Like always. And as your needs change, we can change with you, offering the right level of care for where you are. Our experienced management team and specially trained staff are here to provide just the right balance of care and support to suit any lifestyle.

Owner: Belmont Village, L.P.

Payment: Private, LTCi, Private Ins.

Features and Services: Chef prepared meals, Transportation, Housekeeping, Laundry, on-site Therapy services, Entertainment and Happy hour, Medication management, Bathing, dressing, toileting assistance, Activities and outings, Pet friendly.

Chestnut Ridge Health & Rehabilitation

1015 West Magazine St, Louisville, KY 40203 (502) 815-6460 • chestnutridgehr.com

Price Per Day: Varies depending on levels of care and community Committed to delivering exceptional rehab and skilled nursing care. Inpatient hemodialysis offered.

Owner: Lyon Healthcare

Payment: Private, Medicare, Medicaid, commercial policies

Christian Care Communities – Middletown 11530 Herrick Ln, Louisville, KY 40243 (502) 254-1799

Middletown.ChristianCareCommunities.org

Price Per Month: $3900+ All-inclusive. No added fees for care needs.

2025 Senior Advisor Award Winner. Imagine maintaining your independence while enjoying a little extra help when needed - exactly how assisted living should be. We tailor our services to meet unique needs, balancing active independence with trusted, personalized support. The monthly investment includes housekeeping, meals, laundry, utilities, plus help with bathing, dressing, medication reminders, toileting, etc. Our pet-friendly, VA-certified community features a thoughtfully designed, ground-floor layout that’s mobileand memory-friendly.

Our experienced, long-tenured caregivers are dedicated to helping residents live their best lives. With a 24/7 support team, freedom and flexibility come naturally. We offer private suites for personalized comfort, daily social activities, shared living areas designed for fellowship, and weekly worship and Bible studies. Residents have access to an abundance of outdoor greenspace, onsite beauty salon, whirlpool spa, library, and chapel.

Owner: Christian Care Communities, Inc.

Payment: Private, VA, LTCi

Features and Services: Housecleaning, Bathing and Dressing Assistance, Eating Help, Laundry, 24-Hour Care, Dining Room, Outdoor Spaces, Garden, Pets Allowed

Cooper Trail Senior Living

325 Lincoln Way, Bardstown, KY 40004 (502) 572-4329 • coopertrailsl.com

Price Per Month: Visit our website or call for current pricing. Compassionate staff, activities, respite & outpatient services on-site.

Operated by: Trilogy Health Services, LLC

Payment: Private, LTCi

Eastway

Health & Rehabilitation

1155 Eastern Pkwy, Louisville, KY 40217 (502) 636-5241 • eastwayhr.com

Price Per Day: Varies depending on levels of care and community Committed to delivering exceptional rehab and skilled nursing care.

Owner: Lyon Healthcare

Payment: Private, Medicare, Medicaid, commercial policies

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Episcopal Church Home

7504 Westport Rd, Louisville, KY 40222 (502) 736-7800

episcopalchurchhome.org

Price Per Day: Varies by Level of Care

Discover award-winning assisted living and memory care designed for your comfort, security, and peace of mind. Tour luxurious private suites, savor fine dining, and enjoy enriching activities, private courtyards, fitness programs, and a full-service salon. See why so many families trust Episcopal Church Home.

Here, you or your loved one (age 62+) can thrive, no matter the level of assistance needed. Our dedicated team provides compassionate, onsite nursing care with a high staff-to-resident ratio—offering security and support when it matters most.

All faiths are welcome. Experience the difference and schedule your no-cost tour today!

Owner: Episcopal Retirement Services

Payment: Private, Medicaid, Medicare, LTCi, Hospice, Private Ins.

Features and Services: Transportation, Showers, Separate Units, House Cleaning, Bathing & Dressing Assistance, Eating Help, Meal Prep, 24-Hr Care, Physical/Occupational/Speech Therapy, Dining Room, Restaurant, Chef on Staff, Happy Hour, Tours/Trips, Emergency Assistance, Medication Management, Open Kitchen, Outdoor Spaces, Garden, Pets Allowed

Forest Springs Health Campus

4120 Wooded Acre Ln, Louisville, KY 40245 (502) 243-1643 • forestspringshc.com

Price Per Month: Visit our website or call for current pricing. Full continuum of care, short-term care, on-site therapy & dialysis unit.

Owner: Trilogy Health Services, LLC

Payment: Private, Medicare, Medicaid, LTCi

Search our care community directory online by scanning the QR code.

The Forum at Brookside 200 Brookside Dr, Louisville, KY 40243 (502) 245-3048 theforumatbrookside.com

Price Per Day: Visit our website or call for current pricing.

Number of Units: Assisted Living – Basic Health 24 Apartments

Our Ambassador Suites have 24 Assisted Living – Basic Health apartments providing 24-hour nursing supervision and medication administration. Restaurant-style dining room, stimulating activities tailored to the individual, and a private landscaped courtyard with gazebo within our 40-acre park-like campus encourages healthy living. On-site physical therapy specializes in rehabilitation and fitness training solutions providing easy-to- access outpatient rehab and pro-active strength and fitness training.

Owner: Sinceri Senior Living

Payment: Private, Private Ins.

Features and Services: Transportation, Showers, Separate Units, House Cleaning, Bathing & Dressing Assistance, Laundry, Meal Prep, Errands, 24-Hr Care, Physical/Occupational/Speech Therapy, Water/Aquatic Exercise, Dining Room, Exercise Facility, Game Night, Happy Hour, Tours/Trips, Emergency Assistance, Medication Given, Open Kitchen, Outdoor Spaces, Garden, Pets Allowed, Movie Room, Chef on Staff

Franciscan Health Care Center

3625 Fern Valley Rd, Louisville, KY 40219 (502) 964-3381 • franciscanhc.com

Price Per Month: Visit our website or call for current pricing. Full continuum of care, short-term care, therapy services on-site.

Owner: Trilogy Health Services, LLC

Payment: Private, Medicare, Medicaid, LCTi

Glen Ridge Health Campus 6415 Calm River Way, Louisville, KY 40299 (502) 297-8590 • glenridgehc.com

Price Per Month: Visit our website or call for current pricing. Full continuum of care, short-term care, therapy services on-site.

Owner: Trilogy Health Services, LLC

Payment: Private, Medicare, Medicaid, LCTi

FIND CARE OPTIONS

Search for care options by locations, keywords, and categories. TodaysTransitions.com offers comprehensive directories of care communities and resources complete with features, photos, and reviews.

The Grand Senior Living

9300 Civic Way, Prospect, KY 40059 (502) 289-8370 thegrand-sl.com

Price Per Month: $4810+

In house Medical Director, Licensed nurse 7 days a week, 24-7 professional care services, dedicated staff trained in dementia care. Signature Passion Program with family care services and support group.

Restaurant dining with 3 chef prepared meals a day, assistance with all activities of daily living, 24-7 care staff, medication management, emergency pendant system, in-house therapy program with physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy, house cleaning and laundry services, transportation, pet friendly, full service salon, indoor heated pool, movie theater, putting green, bocce ball, and walking trails.

Owner: Management, Civitas Senior Living

Payment: Private, LTCi, VA

Features and Services: Transportation, Showers, House Cleaning, Bathing and Dressing Assistance, Laundry, Meal Prep, 24-Hour Care, Physical/Occupational/Speech Therapy, Water/Aquatic Exercise, Dining Room, Exercise Facility, Game Night, Happy Hour, Tours/Trips, Emergency Assistance, Medication Given, Outdoor Spaces, Garden, Pets Allowed, Movie Room, Chef on Staff

Harmony at Tucker Station 12523 Taylorsville Rd, Louisville, KY 40299 (502) 694-4673 • HarmonySeniorServices.com

Price Per Month: $3350+

Our senior living community offers a range of options to provide as much or as little assistance as you may need. Choose from Independent Living, Personal Care and Memory Care to get the right level of support from our caring, expert team. We are committed to serving our residents in a way that provides comfort and enrichment in your life. Harmony stands out among senior living communities for our uniquely engaging calendar of events, enriching activities, and world-class care services.

Owner: Harmony Senior Services

Features and Services: Transportation, Showers, Separate Units, House Cleaning, Laundry, Errands, 24-Hr Care, Physical Therapy, Dining Room, Exercise Facility, Game Night, Happy Hour, Tours/Trips, Emergency Assistance, Medication Given, Open Kitchen, Outdoor Spaces, Garden, Pets Allowed, Movie Room, Chef on Staff

Harrison Springs Health Campus

871 Pacer Court Northwest, Corydon, IN 47112 (812) 738-0317 • trilogyhs.com/senior-living/in/corydon/ harrison-springs-health-campus

Price Per Month: Visit our website or call for current pricing.

Full continuum of care, short-term care, therapy services on-site.

Owner: Trilogy Health Services, LLC

Payment: Private, Medicare, Medicaid, LTCi

Heartsong Adult Day Health Care

9300 Stonestreet Rd, Ste 700, Louisville, KY 40272 (502) 935-3300 • heartsong-mc.com

Price Per Day: $80/day, baths $20 | Type: medical Activities to promote cognitive, physical, social, and spiritual well-being.

Owner: Heartsong Memory Care, LLC

Payment: Private, Medicaid, LTCi

The

Legacy at English Station

13700 English Villa Dr, Louisville, KY 40245 (502) 254-2361 • legacyatenglishstation.com

Price Per Month: Visit our website or call for current pricing.

Memory care honoring unique life stories, highly trained caregivers.

Owner: Trilogy Health Services, LLC

Payment: Private, LTCi

Loretto Living Center

466 Academy Lane Nerinx, KY 40049 (270) 865-5811 lorettolivingcenter.org

Price Per Day: $225-$435

The Loretto Living Center, formerly known as Loretto Motherhouse Infirmary, is a licensed long-term healthcare facility, founded by the Sisters of Loretto, located on their 800-acre Loretto Motherhouse Campus. We offered Long-term Care, Skilled Nursing Rehab, Personal Care, and Independent Senior Living apartments.

The Loretto Living Center is committed to providing holistic, personcentered care in a safe and nurturing environment. We foster a culture of compassion and dignity that supports both residents and staff in body, mind, and spirit. Through meaningful relationships and dedicated service, we strive to make a difference in every life we touch.

The Loretto Living Center has consistently received five-star ratings from the CMS and ranked as #1 in Kentucky by Newsweek as a 2026 Best Nursing Home.

Owner: Loretto Living Center at Loretto Motherhouse, Inc.

Payment: Private, LTCi, Medicare, Medicaid

Features and Services: Showers Available, House Cleaning, Bathing Assistance, Dressing Assistance, Eating Help, Laundry, Meal Prep, 24-Hour Care, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Dining Room, Exercise Facility, Emergency Assistance, Medication Given, Outdoor Spaces

Lyon Healthcare

13 Kentucky campuses to serve you lyonhc.com

Price Per Day: Varies depending on levels of care and community

Lyon Healthcare is committed to delivering exceptional rehabilitation and skilled nursing care. Our dedicated caregivers work together to provide around-the-clock care and an environment where you and your loved ones feel valued, respected and empowered.

Each of our three local communities blend advanced healing technology. Learn more about each within these directory pages:

Chestnut Ridge Health & Rehabilitation

Eastway Health & Rehabilitation

Parkwood Health & Rehabilitation

Your journey is our top priority.

Owner: Lyon Healthcare

Payment: Private, Medicare, Medicaid, commercial policies

Features and Services: Transportation Available, Showers Available, Bathing Assistance, Dressing Assistance, Eating Help, Laundry, 24Hour Care, Dining Room, Emergency Assistance, Medication Given, Feeding Assistance if needed, Dietary Department, Wound Care, Respiratory Care

Nazareth Home – Clifton Campus

2120 Payne St, Louisville, KY 40206 (502) 895-9425

nazhome.org

Price Per Day: $185-$525

Number of Licensed Beds on This Campus: 113

Nazareth Home was established in 1976 as a healthcare ministry sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth. Today, Nazareth Home is an award-winning, 5-star rated long-term care and rehabilitation organization that provides person-centered health and wellness services for adults and families. With two campuses in Louisville, Ky., Nazareth Home enriches the lives of its patients through personal care, memory care, recovery to home, and long-term care programs.

Owner: Nazareth Home, Inc.

Payment: Private, LTCi, Medicare, Medicaid

Features and Services: Showers Available, Separate Units, House Cleaning, Bathing Assistance, Dressing Assistance, Eating Help, Laundry, Meal Prep, 24-Hour Care, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Dining Room, Game Night, Happy Hour, Tours/Trips, Emergency Assistance, Medication Given, Open Kitchen, Outdoor Spaces, Garden, Chef on Staff

Nazareth

Home — Highlands Campus

2000 Newburg Rd, Louisville, KY 40205 (502) 459-9681 nazhome.org

Price Per Day: $215-$595

Number of Licensed Beds on This Campus: 168

Nazareth Home was established in 1976 as a healthcare ministry sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth. Today, Nazareth Home is an award-winning, 5-star rated long-term care and rehabilitation organization that provides person-centered health and wellness services for adults and families. With two campuses in Louisville, Ky., Nazareth Home enriches the lives of its patients through personal care, memory care, recovery to home, and long-term care programs.

Owner: Nazareth Home, Inc.

Payment: Private, LTCi, Medicare, Medicaid

Features and Services: Showers Available, Separate Units, House Cleaning, Bathing Assistance, Dressing Assistance, Eating Help, Laundry, Meal Prep, 24-Hr Care, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Dining Room, Game Night, Happy Hour, Tours/Trips, Emergency Assistance, Medication Given, Open Kitchen, Outdoor Spaces, Garden, Chef on Staff

Park Terrace Health Campus

9700 Stonestreet Rd, Louisville, KY 40272 (502) 995-6600 • parkterracehc.com

Price Per Day: Visit our website or call for current pricing. On-site skilled nursing, memory care services, dialysis unit.

Owner: Trilogy Health Services, LLC

Payment: Medicare, Medicaid, Private, LTCi

Parkwood Health & Rehabilitation

900 Gagel Ave, Louisville, KY 40216 (502) 368-5827 • parkwoodhr.com

Price Per Day: Varies depending on levels of care and community

Committed to delivering exceptional rehab and skilled nursing care.

Owner: Lyon Healthcare

Payment: Private, Medicare, Medicaid, commercial policies

Rivercrest Senior Living

4917 Grant Line Road, New Albany, IN 47150 (930) 256-0240 • rivercrestseniorliving.com

Price Per Month: Visit our website or call for current pricing.

Full continuum of care, short-term care, therapy services on-site.

Owner: Trilogy Health Services, LLC

Payment: Private, Medicare, Medicaid, LTCi

Sanders Ridge Health Campus

119 E Sanders Lane, Mt. Washington, KY 40047 (502) 251-3821 • sandersridgehc.com

Price Per Month: Visit our website or call for current pricing.

Full continuum of care, short-term care, therapy services on-site.

Owner: Trilogy Health Services, LLC

Payment: Private, Medicare, Medicaid, LCTi

Shelby Farms Senior Living

100 Williamsburg Dr, Shelbyville, KY 40065 (502) 257-9485 • shelbyfarmssl.com

Compassionate staff, activities, respite & outpatient services on-site.

Operated by: Trilogy Health Services, LLC

Payment: Private, LTCi

Spring House at Louisville 1760 Plantside Dr, Louisville, KY 40299 (502) 452-2664

springhouseliving.com/spring-house-at-louisville

Price Per Month: $3945-$5395

A remarkable senior community in the Hurstbourne area offering: Independent Living: We offer a wide range of floor plans.

Adult Day Health Care: A great way to ensure your loved one receives support and social interaction — while giving you a well-deserved break.

Assisted Living: Services include medication assistance and reminders, assistance with ambulation, transfers, and escorts to and from daily routine activities and social events, assistance with dining, bathing, grooming and personal hygiene, dress, toileting and incontinence management.

Memory Care: A special memory care neighborhood is dedicated to caring for residents with memory impairment. Our Township program is designed with varying stages in mind, and features unique “Neighborhoods” tailored to meet the needs of each resident.

Owner: Canopy Senior Living

Payment: Private, Private Ins., LTCi

Features and Services: Transportation, Showers, Separate Units, House Cleaning, Bathing & Dressing Assistance, Eating Help, Laundry, Meal Prep, 24-Hr Care, Physical/Occupational/Speech Therapy, Dining Room, Exercise Facility, Game Night, Happy Hour, Tours/Trips, Emergency Assistance, Medication Given, Outdoor Spaces, Movie Room

The Springs at Oldham Reserve

2000 East Peak Rd, LaGrange, KY 40031 (502) 516-3176 • springsatoldhamreserve.com

Price Per Month: Visit our website or call for current pricing. Full continuum of care, short-term care, therapy services on-site.

Owner: Trilogy Health Services, LLC

Payment: Private, Medicare, Medicaid, LTCi

The Springs at Stony Brook

2200 Stony Brook Dr, Louisville, KY 40220 (502) 491-4692 • springsatstonybrook.com

Price Per Month: Visit our website or call for current pricing. Full continuum of care, short-term care, therapy services on-site.

Owner: Trilogy Health Services, LLC

Payment: Private, Medicare, Medicaid, LTCi

Treyton Oak Towers

211 West Oak St, Louisville, KY 40203 (502) 589-3211

treytonoaktowers.com

Price Per Day: $130-$450

We provide the highest quality of individualized service with dignity and respect while honoring our faith-based tradition. Everyone’s needs change as the years go by. Treyton Oak Towers is designed specifically to meet those changing needs, so you can continue to live in the same warm, caring environment, regardless of how your circumstances may change.

We provide what is known as a continuum of care — additional levels of care available should the need arise in the future. Our caring staff will make certain you are receiving the appropriate level of care. Our mission is to plan so that you don’t have to. Dignity, Respect, Faith

Owner: Third & Oak Corporation

Payment: Private, Medicaid, Medicare, VA, LTCi, Hospice, Private Ins. Features and Services: Transportation, Showers, Separate Units, House Cleaning, Bathing & Dressing Assistance, Eating Help, Laundry, Meal Prep, Errands, 24-Hr Care, Physical/Occupational/Speech Therapy, Water/Aquatic Exercise, Dining Room, Exercise Facility, Game Night, Happy Hour, Tours/Trips, Emergency Assistance, Medication Given, Outdoor Spaces, Garden, Pets Allowed, Movie Room, Chef on Staff

Trilogy Health Services

303 N Hurstbourne Pkwy, Ste 200, Louisville, KY 40222

12 local campuses to serve you (502) 785-9188

trilogyhs.com

Price Per Month: Varies depending on levels of care

Trilogy Health Services offers a full range of senior living options, and with over 12 locations in the Louisville area, you’re sure to find a location near you that meets your needs.

Cooper Trail Senior Living • Forest Springs Health Campus • Franciscan Health Center • Glen Ridge Health Campus • The Legacy at English Station • Park Terrace Health Campus • Sanders Ridge Health Campus • Shelby Farms Senior Living • The Springs at Oldham Reserve • The Springs at Stony Brook • Westport Place Health Campus • The Willows at Springhurst — Learn more about each campus in these directory pages.

Trilogy senior living communities offer luxury Independent Living patio homes and apartments, compassionate Assisted Living services, a full range of Rehabilitation, Skilled Nursing, and even Memory Care services for those living with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia. Every level of care we provide, from basic assistance to round-theclock clinical care, is delivered by people who will take the time to learn your story, and who will act in your best interests, always. That’s The Trilogy Difference.

Owner: Trilogy Health Services, LLC

UofL Health — Frazier Rehab Institute

200 Abraham Flexner Way, Louisville, KY 40202 (502) 582-7400 • UofLHealth.com

Price Per Day: $1000

Inpatient/stroke/brain injury/spinal cord injury/cancer rehab; PT/OT/ST.

Owner: UofL Health

Payment: Medicare, Medicaid, Private ins., LTCi, VA

The Villages at Historic Silvercrest

1 Silvercrest Drive, New Albany, IN 47150 (812) 542-6720 • trilogyhs.com/senior-living/in/ new-albany/the-villages-at-historic-silvercrest/

Price Per Month: Visit our website or call for current pricing.

Full continuum of care, short-term care, therapy services on-site.

Owner: Trilogy Health Services, LLC

Payment: Private, Medicare, Medicaid, LTCi

Vitality Living Springdale 4501 Springdale Rd , Louisville, KY 40241

(502) 412-0222

vitalityseniorliving.com/senior-living-locations/ kentucky/springdale/

Price Per Month: $3775-$6800

VITALITY LIVING SPRINGDALE IS REDESIGNING SENIOR LIVING IN KENTUCKY WITH YOU IN MIND.

Vitality is your premier choice for senior living in Kentucky. We are committed to ensuring that every service and amenity helps create the enriched, active life you or your loved one deserves.

Vitality Living Springdale specializes in assisted living and memory care that allow adults to experience a lifestyle with vitality at any age.

Owner: Vitality Senior Living Payment: Private, VA, LTCi

Features and Services: Transportation, Showers, Separate Units, House Cleaning, Bathing Assistance, Laundry, Meal Prep, 24-Hr Care, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Dining Room, Exercise Facility, Game Night, Happy Hour, Tours/Trips, Emergency Assistance, Medication Given, Outdoor Spaces, Garden, Pets Allowed, Movie Room, Chef on Staff

Vitality Living St. Matthews

120 S Hubbards Ln, Louisville, KY 40207 (502) 896-1759

vitalityseniorliving.com/senior-living-locations/ kentucky/st-matthews/

Price Per Month: $3000-$3600

As the premier independent living and assisted living community in the St. Matthews area, we are conveniently located in the unique St. Matthews neighborhood, with easy access to shopping, dining, festivals and the arts, Vitality Living St. Matthews offers independent living and assisted living in the heart of Louisville, KY. This vibrant senior living community offers all the comforts of home with none of the day-to-day obligations of owning one.

After a morning meditation workshop, enjoy good conversation over breakfast. Take a stroll through the tree-lined streets nearby or meet neighbors for an afternoon shopping spree. At Vitality Living, the choice is always yours.

Whether you are ready now or are just beginning to think about senior living, we invite you to stop by or call to schedule a tour at your convenience. We are here to serve you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Owner: Vitality Senior Living

Payment: Private,LTCi, VA

Features and Services: Transportation, Showers, House Cleaning, Laundry, Errands, 24-Hr Care, Dining Room, Exercise Facility, Outdoor Spaces, Movie Room, Chef on Staff

Vitality Living Stony Brook

3451 S Hurstbourne Pkwy, Louisville, KY 40299 (502) 383-1574

vitalityseniorliving.com/senior-living-locations/ kentucky/stony-brook/

Price Per Month: $2650-$5000

Vitality Living is your premier choice for senior living in Louisville, whether you need assisted living or memory care.

Vitality Living Stony Brook offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care. We support our residents’ needs as well as their interests with a calendar filled with a variety of activities to keep our residents as engaged, social, and independent as possible. Families will find peace of mind by knowing that their family members are well taken care of and enjoying life.

You’ll find plenty of comfortable common spaces to spend time with friends and family, whether it’s in the spacious family room, furnished sitting areas, front/back porches, or the large dining room. Large windows throughout our community give it an open and airy feel.

Owner: Vitality Senior Living

Payment: Private, LTCi, VA Aid & Attendance Benefits

Features and Services: Transportation, Showers, House Cleaning, Bathing & Dressing Assistance, Eating Help, Laundry, Meal Prep, Errands, 24-Hr Care, Physical/Occupational/Speech Therapy, Dining Room, Exercise Facility, Game Night, Tours/Trips, Emergency Assistance, Medication Given, Outdoor Spaces, Movie Room, Chef on Staff

Wesley Manor Retirement Community

5012 E Manslick Rd, Louisville, KY 40219

(502) 969-3277

wesman.org

Price Per Month: Varies depending on level of care.

Wesley Manor offers a Life Plan retirement community (full continuum of care services), including all levels of senior living on one campus: independent living, assisted living, personal care/memory support, skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. This gives seniors the advantages of living in one location, even as their health care needs change over time. This is especially helpful for couples who may have varying levels of needs, yet wish to live on the same campus. For all individuals, it means you only need to move once!

You’ll find a wonderful sense of community felt throughout the 35-acre campus. Located near the Gene Snyder Freeway in Louisville — a city convenience with a country feel. Both residents and family members often speak as being part of an extended family — the Wesley Manor family. Living here feels like home. Wesley Manor is a faith-based, non-profit; independently owned and operated since 1963.

Owner: Methodist Retirement Homes of Kentucky, Inc.

Payment: Private, Medicaid, Medicare, LTCi, Hospice, Private Ins. Features and Services: Transportation, Showers, Separate Units, House Cleaning, Bathing & Dressing Assistance, Eating Help, Laundry, 24-Hr Care, Physical/Occupational/Speech Therapy, Dining Room, Game Night, Tours/Trips, Medication Given, Pets Allowed

Westport Place Health Campus

4247 Westport Rd, Louisville, KY 40207 (502) 893-3033 • westportplacehc.com

Price Per Month: Visit our website or call for current pricing. Full continuum of care, short-term care, therapy services on-site.

Owner: Trilogy Health Services, LLC

Payment: Private, Medicare, Medicaid, LTCi

The Willows at Springhurst

3101 N Hurstbourne Pkwy, Louisville, KY 40241 (502) 412-3775 • willowsatspringhurst.com

Price Per Month: Visit our website or call for current pricing.

Full continuum of care, short-term care, therapy services on-site.

Owner: Trilogy Health Services, LLC

Payment: Private, Medicare, Medicaid, LTCi

Community Updates

• Do you have your hat? The Louisville Senior Derby Dance is April 22 at the Olmsted! Learn more on page 37.

• Dominion Senior Living of Louisville and Everlan of Louisville have officially joined together as StoryPoint Northfield! Being part of StoryPoint Group means being connected to a network of sister communities across Kentucky, offering a full continuum of living options close to home.

• UofL Health – Frazier Rehabilitation Institute once again earned a three-year accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. To earn this, health care facilities undergo a rigorous review assessing over 1,000 standards of care related to safety and quality.

Got an update we should know about? Let us know at jessica@todaystransitions.com.

By Carrie Vittitoe

Try This!

We encourage you to come out of hibernation, grab a bite to eat, and do some exploring.

A garden trail

Spring in Kentucky is the perfect time to explore gardens you know and some you don’t. An easy way to do that is to take the Kentucky Garden Trail, which provides itineraries for 12 gardens in the state. You can stay close to home or venture to Owensboro, Madisonville, or Murray. You can even download a passport journal and get stamps at each location.

Explore Portland

Our fair city has wonderful neighborhoods with lots to see, and Portland’s history makes it especially appealing. You can visit the recently remodeled Portland branch of the Louisville Free Public Library, which was built in 1923. See how this Carnegie-built structure has been preserved and transformed. Afterward, check out the Portland Museum, which is set to open its AHOY Adventure House for children later this year.

Tempt your taste buds

Louisville has numerous Vietnamese restaurants, such as Moondog, NamNam Cafe, and District 6, so if you’ve never tried the cuisine (or if you have and love it), consider tempting your taste buds. Share some spring roll appetizers with friends and then dig into Banh Mi or a noodle bowl.

Mural meander

Street art delivers a dose of the unexpected, so consider trekking through town to see some murals. If you’re in Clarksville, Indiana, near Main Street, make your way to the floodwall mural that features Rosie the Riveter, the Colgate clock, and the fossils at the Falls of the Ohio. If you’re feeling really adventurous, see all the projects completed by OSRS Mural Co. at their website and visit each one in person.