Today’s Transitions RELAX Summer 2026 issue

WHAT DOES RELAXATION FEEL LIKE?

I love a lazy river.

You are floating without doing anything at all.

You are wet enough to be cool.

You can see changing scenery along the way.

You are unable to make things go faster or slower, so you accept where you are.

To me, it’s the definition of relaxing.

Accepting where you are despite the circumstances and allowing yourself to notice happy, beautiful things along the way — that is relaxing.

We interviewed local people who find meaning in their everyday work, volunteer to change lives, start days on a paddleboard, find rituals and rhythms, and share their summer toys. Open these pages and get inspired to have fun this summer — and hopefully find your own way to relax.

—Anita Oldham

SUMMER 2026 | VOL. 23 | NO. 2

Today’s Transitions is published quarterly by: Barrett Jacoby Publishing, LLC 8002 New LaGrange Road, Louisville, KY 40222 TodaysTransitions.com

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 2026 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.

Editor-In-Chief Anita Oldham anita@todaystransitions.com

Editor/Designer Jessica Alyea jessica@todaystransitions.com

Office Administrator MacKenzie Kuebler office@todaystransitions.com

Senior Media Consultant Teri Hickerson teri@todaystransitions.com

Cover Photo Rosie Kerr via Unsplash

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Reprints: office@todaystransitions.com

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What’s New at TodaysTransitions.com:

Passions: FINDING PURPOSE IN THE FOREST

These volunteer naturalists lead guided hikes woven through with poetry, art, and history. See how they got started.

What’s Happening In Town

Every month you’ll find a roundup of events not to miss, from festivals and concerts to art shows and museum tours.

Scan the QR code to read more.

Lifestyle: MAKEOVER YOUR BEDSIDE TABLE

Check out a designer’s tips for minimizing clutter and maximizing space and functionality.

Caregiving: INVOLVE THEM IN DAILY CHORES

Even if you could do it faster, it helps give your loved one purpose. Read this caregiver’s perspective on household tasks.

Read this story and more at TodaysTransitions.com by scanning the QR code.

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Choose the news you want the most — Beautiful Living, Caregiving and Health, Local Happenings, Digital Edition, or all.

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Comprehensive Directory Listings

Find a directory of options for retirement living on page 52. Care community and home caregiving directories start on page 68. Search our directories online for caregiving and living options in Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio at TodaysTransitions.com.

By Carrie Vittitoe

What do you do when you want to have fun, but not at the expense of a major investment? An inground pool, for example, can start in the $50,000 range, while the cost of a brand-new fifth wheel recreational vehicle can range between $40,000 and $175,000.

The answer is to rent your fun!

Rent lodging with amenities

Many of us have already experienced this in some capacity if we’ve rented a cabin or house as part of a vacation. The house provides lodging, but it may also offer fun in the form of a hot tub, a pool table, or a fire pit in the yard. Leon Swarts, the owner of Walnut Grove Farm & Lodge in Shelbyville, Kentucky, rents out not only a place to stay (that was once a dairy barn) but 100 acres of fun. “We currently rent our lodge to Airbnb guests and hunters,” he says. “The 100 acres is used for walking, jogging, fishing, and as a nature preserve. The farm has become a secluded haven that offers privacy and solitude for getaways.”

For Leon and his family, there is enjoyment that comes with knowing they are helping others relax or have fun, but there are also practical benefits. “The rentals provide income to maintain the property and satisfaction that our family has reinvented the farm from its former agrarian use to a recreational purpose,” he says.

Rent a pool

Typically, when people think of renting fun, they think of a building. But did you know that you can actually rent someone’s pool? Jeffery Shaw first heard about Swimply, an app that allows homeowners to rent their swimming pools, hot tubs, and tennis courts by the hour, when it was featured on The Today Show. He was intrigued. Although he didn’t immediately look into the process, Jeffery says, “Eventually, I realized I had this beautiful

pool and outdoor space that took a lot of work to maintain, and Swimply offered a way to share it with other families while also helping offset the cost of keeping everything up.”

Now in his third year of using Swimply, Jeffery says the process has been smooth and the feedback very positive. His five-star rating often comes from repeat renters, but that may be because he has gone above and beyond as a host. “I’ve tried to make the space feel like more than just a pool rental,” he says. “There are quite a few amenities — the biggest ones are the kitchen and bathroom in the pool house, the covered outdoor space, fireplace, grill, outdoor TV, indoor TV, speaker, some pool toys, and even yard games. I think those extras make it feel more comfortable and give people a place where they can really settle in and enjoy themselves.”

Kristen Martin saw an advertisement for Swimply on Facebook and found a pool just down the road from her when she checked out the listings. She has now rented several times from the same host and says it is well worth the money. “Typically I rent the pool and five to 10 of my work friends join me!” she says. “We use the pool as a place to float, get some sun, and relax. Last summer, we rented the pool a couple times a month for usually four hours each time.”

Dana Slusher has been renting private pools for several years and says she really enjoys the convenience that comes with it. Rather than having to get to a public pool early in the day to ensure a seat, she and her friends (five or six couples plus children) can choose the time that works best for their schedules. “Instead of going to an overcrowded pool somewhere, it allows us to have

“INSTEAD OF GOING TO AN OVERCROWDED POOL, IT ALLOWS US TO HAVE PRIVATE FUN [WITH] NOT SO MANY PEOPLE AROUND.”

private fun [with] not so many people around,” she says.

Rent a boat

What if you like the water, but would rather be on a large body of it rather than just a backyard pool? You can, of course, rent a boat using getmyboat.com. And, really, it isn’t just pontoons; there are jet skis, canoes, and even yachts. If you’re heading down to Taylorsville Lake for a day of fun, you can rent kayaks for a couple hours from one host. Or there is the option of renting a runabout for skiing, although you are responsible for towing it to and from the water.

On getmyboat.com, there is even the option of renting a boat AND a captain for a private cruise. For instance, you can find a cruise for six people through the Kentucky River Palisades, a beautiful stretch of water surrounded by limestone cliffs.

Rent an RV

If you don’t have sea legs, you can stay on terra firma and rent a recreational vehicle (RV) using outdoorsy.com. There you can find all kinds of fun options, from fifth wheels and folding trailers to camper vans and Class A motorhomes. Whether you’re planning to drive cross country or to rent an RV once you arrive at your destination, outdoorsy.com has hosts all over the US. Since many of us dream of driving an RV to see national parks, the site even allows you to search by national park destination and shows listings nearby. The options are pretty limitless, from 12-foot campers that sleep two people to 39-foot motorhomes that sleep seven.

So this summer, when you’re looking for something different, try some of these rental apps that offer slices of fun without a big expense or total responsibility.

Spreading Critter Love

Alove of “kids and critters” motivates Louisville Zoo volunteer Diana Grammer in her work. After growing up in Illinois, Diana attended Sullivan College and married a Louisville native, making this area her home for more than five decades. A few years after retiring from her job with Chase Bank, she began training and volunteering as a Louisville Zoo docent.

What made you decide to volunteer at the Zoo?

I enjoy kids and critters. I volunteered at Green Hill Therapy with children and horses and at an elementary school as a teacher’s aide and tutor for 11 years until 2019. A friend who had been a Zoo docent for years suggested I give it a try.

The Zoo docent organization includes people of all ages and stages in life. We all share the same goal: ‘to better the bond between people and our planet.’ Helping families discover how they play a part in the animals’ lives through the choices they make in their everyday lives is very rewarding. The information we share with them might create awareness and change behaviors for generations to come. Some of our Zoo animals are endangered, and we certainly don’t want any more to become extinct.

What is your role as a volunteer?

As a docent, we become familiar with and sometimes develop a special interest

in the animals and learn their unique habits and traits. We can pass along this information to groups and individuals who visit us at the Zoo.

The joy of being a volunteer is all the flexibility. We are required to commit 48 hours a year interpreting. That can be accomplished at any of the animal exhibits on days the Zoo is open. There are a variety of special events including Breakfast with the Beasts, Trivia Nights, Exploration Stations, and other educational events with schools and scouting organizations where you can earn hours.

What have you learned about yourself through volunteering?

I enjoy being around people and learning from them. And I enjoy sharing what I’ve learned about our Zoo and how it operates, from the animal hospital to the commissary where meals are prepared, to our involvement in species survival and breeding.

What has volunteering done for you?

I’m a widow, and the opportunity to interact and share with visitors at the Zoo has given me a second breath in life. The children are always a delight. When days seem challenging, coming to the Zoo and spending time observing the animals, and the people, always puts a smile on my face.

What advice would you give other older adults interested in volunteering?

Don’t put it off! I wish I had started sooner. As a volunteer representing the Zoo, we are given all the training, tools, and support from the Zoo staff and other seasoned docents to ensure we do a great job. The flexibility that comes with volunteering is a definite plus. You can come when the weather is warm or cold, dry or wet, sunny or cloudy. New friendships are an inevitable part of volunteering, too.

Greg Galiette’s Field of Dreams

Greg Galiette’s life is in Louisville. Born and raised in the ’Ville, he graduated from The University of Louisville, married his high school sweetheart, and raised his twins here. That’s already a long list of winning stats, but add that he’s the current president of the Louisville Bats Triple A Baseball team to the list, and you guessed it — Greg knocked it out of the park.

A friend’s inspiration

Greg’s love of baseball has remained constant throughout his life, and he remembers when he fell in love with the sport: He was 5 years old, and his father was battling Hodgkin lymphoma — a battle he would, sadly, not win.

When his dad became sick, a friend, the family barber who went by ‘Snow,’ came to play games of catch with Greg. “He would come over and play catch with me because my dad couldn’t,” Greg says. Such a kind gesture during a difficult time made an impression, and Greg remembers thinking it was “really cool” to have Snow stop by. But the story doesn’t end there.

Years later, in September 2022, a special player’s number was retired at Slugger Field Stadium. That player was Felton Snow — a Negro League Hall of Fame infielder for the Louisville White Sox, who made the All-Star team in 1935 and 1936. And that’s when Greg realized this was his childhood friend. “I played catch with a famous baseball player who ended up being my dad’s barber,” he muses. It was Snow’s kindness that served as a catalyst for Greg’s enduring love of baseball.

An ‘idiotic’ decision

After his father passed, Greg threw himself into sports.

“That kind of became my babysitter,” he recalls. His father had played college football at Syracuse, and Greg’s uncle was the radio voice of Yale football for 33 years and was one of the first sportscasters on ESPN. “So sports have always been a big part of our family,” Greg says.

Greg competed as a track and field athlete his freshman year

“WHAT’S REALLY COOL IS WALKING AROUND THE BALLPARK AND SEEING THE SMILES ON PEOPLE’S FACES... WE LIKE TO SAY THAT WE’RE IN THE MEMORY CREATION BUSINESS HERE.”

at UofL before he decided to finish his athletic career and focus on school. After graduating with a marketing degree, he went to work in sales for Xerox. He found it monotonous. “Every day felt like Groundhog Day,” he says. Realizing that this was not his calling or passion, Greg says he started pestering A. Ray Smith, the minor league baseball team owner of the then-named Louisville Redbirds, to see if there were any job opportunities. “After about six months of bothering, I guess I wore him down,” Greg says.

In 1984, Greg started out with the Redbirds as a sales intern, taking a massive pay cut. “Everybody thought I was an idiot for basically chasing my dream,” he recalls.

Indeed, making the switch was a leap of faith for the newlywed, but it proved to be the right choice for Greg. “It was so cool to basically feel like you weren’t going to work each day,” he says. “I was doing something I was so passionate about that it rarely seems like I’m going to work.”

From intern to a litany of roles with the team through the years, Greg rose to president of the Louisville Bats in 2021.

The Slugger Field memory makers

Greg enjoys watching the joy baseball brings to individuals and families. “What’s really cool is each night walking around the ballpark and seeing the smiles on people’s faces, feeling like you maybe had a small hand in that,” Greg says. Maybe it’s someone’s first-ever baseball game, or maybe they’re reliving childhood memories with their grandkids, but whatever the reason, Greg emphasizes, “We like to say that we’re in the memory creation business here.”

Greg has been in this business for over 42 years, and he says he’s blessed to have very talented people around him. “Everybody has different roles, and then we all mesh together to hopefully make it look seamless,” he says.

Greg and his team are always monitoring current events and trends for any promotional ideas for the ballpark. “Maybe we can make a spinoff of that idea or concept that’s occurring in everyday life, and have fun with it,” Greg says. “Obviously with this area’s love of bourbon, it was natural years ago to create the Louisville ‘Mashers’ (the Bats’ alter ego, for which they don special uniforms and offer bourbon tastings and giveaways

during specific games), and of course with the Derby to create our ‘Mint Julep’ theme night identity.”

With Greg’s busy schedule, finding time to unwind can be a challenge; however, he does have a few go-tos: working out and playing golf. “Being a former athlete, I take pride in keeping myself healthy,” he says. Having taken up golf seriously when he first started with the Redbirds, as many of the front office staff played, Greg fell in love with golf again during the pandemic. In fact, he finds golf such a good reset, his wife bought him a hitting net for their garage, and Greg will go

home after a long day at work and work on his swing.

Baseball has been an American passion since 1845, and to quote a famous movie on the subject, “The one constant through all the years… has been baseball.” Field of Dreams was filmed 37 years ago, and the sentiment holds true. Passion fuels life, and Greg reminds you that life is short, “So just enjoy each and every day for what it is.”

What We’re...

...Reading

Villa Coco, by Andrew Sean Greer, out June 9

In this highly anticipated release from the Pulitzer Prizewinning author, a post-grad aspiring activist becomes an assistant to Baronessa Coco, a flamboyant, 92-year-old force of nature, at her residence in the Italian countryside. Together, they embark on a series of adventures to reunite the Baronessa with the love of her life before it’s too late.

A Thousand Little Goodbyes, by Lucy Gilmore, out August 11

Chrissie Thomas has always played by the rules until her lifelong best friend, Scarlett, insists it’s finally time for the cross-country road trip they’ve dreamed about since childhood. This adventure turns out to be more than a simple reunion; it’s a journey of self-discovery as terminally ill Scarlett searches for the right way to say goodbye. This novel is a moving testament to female friendship, exploring themes of grief, motherhood, and emotional healing.

…Watching

The Dink, Apple TV+, out July 24

This upcoming sports comedy tackles one of America’s fastest-growing pastimes: pickleball. Desperate to save a struggling country club and finally earn his father’s respect, a washed-up tennis pro decides to try his seasoned hand at pickleball. It’s a lighthearted, witty look at second chances.

Little House on the Prairie, Netflix, out July 9

Netflix’s reimagining of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s classic books builds on the nostalgia of the original 1970s series. This adaptation will bring a modern depth to the Ingalls’ frontier life and has already been renewed for a second season.

...Listening to

What a Time, Barry Manilow, out June 5

As Billboard’s No. 1 Adult Contemporary Artist of all time, Manilow will release his first original studio album in nearly 15 years. What a Time brings together an eclectic group of collaborators, including nine-time Grammy-winning producer Dave Cobb and R&B legend Babyface. The album pairs Manilow’s signature melodic tone with fresh rhythms and soulful, gospel-inspired crescendos.

Confessions II, Madonna, out July 3

Over two decades after 2005’s Confessions on a Dance Floor, the Queen of Pop returns with a highly anticipated sequel. For her 15th studio album, Madonna explores a sophisticated blend of nu-disco and electronic music. Designed for both the dance floor and deep listening, this album is a high-energy celebration of a career that continues to redefine modern pop.

Balanced on a Floating Board

Picture this: it’s a quiet early morning on the river, cool water so glassy that it reflects the sky, disturbed only by your paddle dipping smoothly below the surface. This is paddleboarding as Perry Thomas describes it. It’s a sensory experience defined by presence, patience, and balance.

“It feels like you’re suspended between two worlds,” she says. “There are moments of stillness where it’s just me, the board, and the water. It’s soothing and reassuring.”

Perry found her way to paddleboarding through a prior love for paddling kayaks and canoes and practicing yoga. To celebrate her 60th birthday, she and her daughter tried a Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) yoga class with Endless Summer Paddle Company. She quickly found that paddleboarding unites many of the things she values (physical challenge, mindfulness, and being on the water) into one experience. She was hooked.

“There was something about combining movement, balance, and water that just clicked for me right away,” Perry says. “Unlike many hobbies, it asks for my full attention, and that’s a rare and valuable thing. Part of the joy is the simplicity.”

Beyond the physical benefits, Perry has also found value in how paddleboarding engages her mind. While balance is the most obvious skill she’s refined, she says the experience goes much further than that.

“It’s deepened my practice of mindfulness,” she says. “On the board, if your mind wanders too much, you notice it immediately. That awareness carries over into daily life in a meaningful way. For me, paddleboarding — especially SUP yoga — has become more than just a hobby. It’s a way to step outside the noise of everyday life and reconnect with something simpler. There’s a unique kind of peace that comes from being fully present on the water, and that’s what keeps drawing me back.”

Though she treasures her solo time for SUP yoga and mindfulness, Perry also enjoys going on group outings. She describes the Louisville paddleboarding community as a welcoming and encouraging group that shares a deep appreciation for being on the water. This spirit sometimes carries over into post-paddle meals at Haymarket, where Perry and her fellow

Perry says that stand-up paddleboarding, especially paddleboard yoga, has deepened her practice of mindfulness.

paddlers enjoy a delicious meal and fresh air in the outdoor picnic area. She recommends their Harvest Kale Salad as a favorite choice.

Aside from the occasional cup of Heine Brothers’ coffee before heading out, Perry keeps her gear straightforward. Her must-haves consist of basic paddling accessories such as a life jacket, water bottle, sunglasses, and sunscreen. She also packs a towel and extra change of clothes in case she falls off her board and into the water.

“I haven’t yet,” she says, “but it’s always a possibility.”

For Perry, the challenge of staying balanced doesn’t end at the water’s edge. Between her full-time role as program director for the Kentucky Association for Environmental Education and an ongoing project of restoring a farmstead in Henry County with her husband, paddleboarding serves as a restorative escape. Despite her busy schedule, Perry tries to get out on the water as much as

she can. In fact, one of her goals for this summer is to practice SUP yoga at least once a week.

“[It’s] part of my retirement plan,” she says. “Meanwhile, I’m looking forward to celebrating my 65th birthday on a paddleboard!”

For anyone looking to add a vibrant activity to their own retirement plan, Perry has some paddling advice. She recommends starting out slowly and suggests guided classes or experiences where an expert can provide support and help you build confidence on the board.

“Start in calm, protected water and give yourself permission to wobble — it’s part of the process,” she says. “You don’t have to be perfect; you just need to be willing to try. Confidence comes quickly once you realize you can do it.”

If you’ve been searching for something a little adventurous to explore, this is your sign to take a plunge into paddleboarding. As Perry can attest, the water’s just fine.

”There’s

By

It crunches. It’s soft. It’s a light, airy foundation for juicy fruits and tangy fruit curd. I love a meringue base for a summer dessert. I hadn’t made a meringue for several years, so I felt intimidated. Would it whip up right? I didn’t want to waste my efforts. Which kind of meringue should I try? I had made French meringue most recently, but wanted to try something different. I decided on Swiss meringue for its stability so that I could play with the shapes a bit more.

Swiss Meringue Angel Pie Shell

This recipe from Zoebakes.com makes a glossy meringue that was easy to work with. In her pictures, the baker plays with the shape of the pie shell, lifting the meringue on the edges to create tall peaks that can contain a topping. It’s fun, and it’s delicious. It’s really up to you what you create!

Ingredients

1 cup (240ml) egg whites from about 5 eggs

2 cups sugar

Pinch salt

2 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat oven to 250°F. Butter a 9-inch pie plate. Bring about an inch of water in a saucepan to a simmer. Combine the egg whites, sugar, and salt in the bowl of a stand mixer. Place the mixer bowl over the simmering water and stir the egg mixture with a rubber spatula until hot and the sugar has dissolved, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and place the bowl onto the stand mixer with a whisk attachment. Beat on high speed until you have thick, glossy, stiff peaks, about 8+ minutes. Beat in the vanilla. Spread the meringue into the prepared pie plate. Bake for 1½ hours, turn off heat, and allow the pie shell to cool in the oven. This may take an additional hour, depending on the meringue’s size.

For this meringue, we used a lime curd and fresh mixed berries.

Know your Meringue

French Meringue

Simple, light, airy. It is made by gradually whisking raw sugar into uncooked egg whites until stiff peaks form. It must be baked in a low oven. It is ideal for delicate treats like macarons and pavlovas.

Swiss Meringue

Dense, glossy, and marshmallowlike. It is made by whisking egg whites and sugar together over a simmering water bath to warm the eggs, then whipping the mixture until it cools. Good for icing and pie.

Italian Meringue

Stable, satiny, and dense. It is prepared by streaming boiling sugar syrup into softly whipped egg whites while continuously mixing. It requires no baking. Good for pie topping or Baked Alaska.

IS THIS HEALTHY?

Not particularly, but it doesn’t contain additives or chemicals. You can decide how sweet it is, and the fruit does give you a nutritional boost.

I used a muffin tin to shape these mini meringues. I topped them with a light fruit curd (which you can also purchase if desired) and some fresh berries.

Whether you shape your meringue in a pie pan or go freeform, the result is beautiful. We topped this one with cherries, a sprinkling of sugar, and a sprig of herb to brighten up the look.

By Carrie

Finding Flexibility

Remember the ‘good ole days’ when you could fall asleep and wake the next morning without having injured your neck or back while unconscious? Or when you could sit for several hours and then stand without your knees sounding like a percussion band? At some point, typically as we enter our 50s, we realize that we may need some tools to help us stay flexible and maintain stability as we move into our later decades.

Roll it out

A tool that is often used by athletes and in physical therapy offices is the foam roller, which you can find in various widths and lengths both online and in local stores. These inexpensive tools can make a world of positive difference in how our body feels. “As we age, our tissue gets stiffer,” says Blake LeBlanc, an athletic trainer for Norton Sports Health. “Foam rollers provide a means of self-induced

myofascial release, helping separate the layers of tissue that begin to adhere to each other.” They also help promote blood circulation, he adds.

“The best thing about foam rolling is that it’s not time-consuming,” Blake continues. “Ideally, spending less than one minute per muscle group is appropriate.” Of course, it is important to remember that foam rollers should be used on soft tissue, not bones or joints.

Stretch for strength

Another useful tool is the exercise band. These have several benefits over free weights or weight machines when it comes to strength training. “Exercise bands are cheaper, require less space for storage, and less equipment for progressing as you get stronger,” Blake says.

Exercise bands can easily be packed into luggage if you travel for fun or work. But another benefit of an exercise band is that they can be used for flexibility, which becomes even more important as we age. “Bands can be used for proprioception training, thus improving balance and stability in movements, and thick bands can assist with flexibility and stretching,” Blake says.

Take a hike

While many of us have seen or used these two gadgets, either on our own or actually doing physical therapy, most people haven’t discovered the benefits of hiking poles. If the last thing on Earth you want to do is take a hike in the woods and climb boulders, hiking poles can offer exceptional benefits just being used around your neighborhood. “Hiking poles are great to assist with balance, which may be what is keeping someone from getting out and walking,” Blake says. “They are great in promoting a full-body workout while you walk, and [they] take pressure off the joints of the lower body.”

Dinner Dilemma:

SOLVED

How meal services can help

What’s for dinner? It’s a question that gets asked over and over again, and one that can cause anxiety, stress, and exhaustion. We must eat, but the constant need to come up with meal ideas and prepare them can be overwhelming. When you hit dinner-making decision fatigue, it can lead to poor choices and a missed opportunity to fuel your body the right way.

You don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to eat well. With a personal chef or meal prep service, you can enjoy custom meals that are fresh, healthy, and make dinnertime much simpler.

Hire a personal chef

Personal chefs work directly with you to plan meals and prepare them in your home. “I meet with my clients to plan the menu, providing recipes that incorporate the foods they like, and then I take it from there,” says Chef Dre, owner and head chef at Dinners by Dre. “I shop, I cook, I clean [up], and for one meal, on the day I cook at their house, I also serve them the meal.”

A personal chef can be a game changer, Chef Dre says. They can provide meals that are completely customized to your needs and preferences, ensure the meals are nutritious and balanced, and make mealtimes

more enjoyable — no more struggling with cooking or the hassle of cleaning up.

“Plus, you can still feel independent since the meals are exactly what you like,” he adds.

Meal services delivered

Meal services offer the convenience of meals that are delivered to your house or that you can pick up at the beginning of the week. Services such as Hello Fresh and Hungry Root deliver ingredients and recipes that you then prepare. These services save you time on shopping and prepping, but you still do the cooking.

Alternatively, meal prep services make and pre-portion your meals so all you must do is reheat them. Clean Eatz offers this service. “Unlike some services that are subscriptionbased, we are à la carte: You can order just one meal or as many as you need for the week,” says Matt Hall, co-owner of Clean Eatz. In addition to meal prep, they also offer a retail location that has stocked fridges with graband-go meals that can be stored in the freezer.

Worth the cost?

While getting a personal chef or committing to a meal service may seem like a luxury, the benefits may be worth the cost. The most obvious benefit is the time it will save. “What is your time worth? What could you be doing if someone else is doing the work for you?” Matt asks. While the time varies by household, meal prep and cleanup can take up to 30-60 minutes per day, plus time to plan the meals and shop.

Eating healthier, both in terms of which foods you eat and the overall amount of food, is another big benefit. Chefs and services cook with whole foods and seasonal ingredients. “I shop each week at farmers markets to get the best ingredients,”

“WHAT IS YOUR TIME WORTH?”

Chef Dre says. Portion size also matters. “Portion size has gone up 138% since the 1970s,” Matt says. “We consume too much food that is not nutrient-dense. Clean Eatz meals are nutrient-dense, so they fill you up, but you are not overconsuming.”

Another key benefit is reduced grocery

Do

your dinners look like this lately? Maybe you need to try something new.

waste. Instead of buying ingredients with good intentions — only to let them spoil when plans change or you are just too tired to cook — these services ensure food is used and not wasted.

For some, meal prep requires special attention due to health conditions or dietary restrictions. Personal chefs can work with you to ensure you are getting well-balanced meals that meet your needs. “I have one client that has some very specific dietary needs,” Chef Dre says. “Every week, I prep veggies that are stored in Mason jars. I cook quinoa and rice, as well as soups. They have everything they need for quick and healthy meals.”

Most meal prep services also offer special diet options and allergen accommodations. “We have all allergens listed on our meals, and we can accommodate most restrictions,” Matt says. “The key is to communicate up front.”

Whether you need help getting meals on the table or want to up the health factor of your food, investing in a chef or meal service could help you achieve your goals. Do your research on pricing options and subscriptions versus à la carte options for meal services. You may find these services are in line with, if not less than, the cost of dining out.

By

Ritual: A Moment to Notice

The value of ritual is profound and underappreciated. Mostly, I think, it’s because we live in a time-starved culture in which ritual is time-indulgent. We have even lost the sense of ritual, presence, and intimacy of the meal; we no longer sit down to meals in the old way.

Who can afford the luxury of doing one thing at a time? Who has the patience to pause and honor an activity before and after we do it? We certainly all should. Religions understand and leverage the power of ritual. In most religions, blessings are as plentiful as iPhone apps. Waking up? There’s a blessing for that. Washing your hands? Experiencing something new? Eating a meal? There’s a blessing for each one. Every religion I know has similar practices to make our experience of the world sacred.

But ritual doesn’t have to be religious; it’s just a tool used in religions. Rituals are about paying attention. They’re about stopping for a moment and noticing what you’re about to do, what you’ve just done, or both. They’re about making the most of a particular moment. And that’s something we could use a lot more of in the business world.

Imagine if we started each meeting by recognizing the power of collaboration, and then dedicated ourselves without distractions to the meeting’s focus. Perhaps we even pause and acknowledge that each person’s views and priorities are important and need to be heard.

“BY ELEVATING EACH ACTIVITY, WE’LL TAKE IT MORE SERIOUSLY.”

What if every performance review began with a short thought about the importance of clear communication?

If every time we worked on a spreadsheet someone else created for us, we paused to acknowledge the complexity of the work they did and the attention to detail they brought to it? If at the beginning of the day we paused to honor the work we are about to do and the people with whom we are about to do it?

Start with just yourself. Sit at your desk in the morning, pause before booting up your computer, and mark the moment. Do this by taking a deep breath. Or by arranging your pens. Whatever it is, do it with the

intention of creating respect for what you’re about to begin. Do the same before you make a phone call. Or before you meet with a colleague or customer.

Each time we pause, notice, and offer respect for an activity, it reminds us to appreciate and focus on what we’re about to do. And by elevating each activity, we’ll take it more seriously. We’ll get more pleasure from it. The people with whom we live and work will feel more respected.

And we’ll feel more self-respect, too, which means we’ll work better with each other and produce better results.

That focus will help us accomplish our tasks more carefully, more proficiently, and more productively. And all the research shows that that kind of singular focus will make us far more efficient.

We need our rituals. It might just be the perfect antidote to a time-starved world.

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

WATER IN THE GARDEN

By Kayla

When summer arrives in full force, and full heat, many of us instinctively seek out water. We head to the lake, the pool, the ocean, or even the nearest splash pad, looking for relief. There is something deeply refreshing about water — the sound, the movement. Fortunately, you do not have to travel far to capture that feeling. With the right water feature, even a small backyard can become a personal retreat.

Trickling and timeless

Water has been a ubiquitous feature in gardens nearly since the first landscapes were created by humans. The use of water in the garden was initially practical: it could be used for drinking, irrigation, and cooling.

Over time, water became more: French kings used water to show everyone that they were in control, even over nature, as shown by the fountains at Versailles. Italian cardinals in the 16th century used water as a way to awe their visitors and impress their peers, in the hopes of gaining enough power and influence to become pope. Villa D’este in Tivoli alone had over 50 massive, gravity-fed fountains that are still awe-inspiring today.

In more modern landscapes, Frederick Law Olmsted, the father of American landscape architecture, understood water not simply as decoration, but as a source of calm and restoration. In his vision of parks and gardens, “green pastures” and “still waters” offered something people deeply needed: tranquility, spaciousness, and rest for the mind.

Options for your space

Incorporating water into your garden does not need to be complicated. There are many outdoor vendors that sell “plugand-play” water fountains that just need to be filled with water and plugged in. My current favorite are these limestone troughs with copper spouts that add so much texture and character to any landscape space.

What kind of water feature will work for you? Consider:

• Where do you have access to electricity?

• Where do you want to hear the water? As you enter your front door? Near a seating area?

• How will you maintain it? Water features will require regular cleaning, seasonal winterization, and occasional pump replacement.

If you have a little more budget and want something custom, there are many different options to make water a focal point in your landscape. This might be a small reflecting basin, a bubbling stone, a wall fountain, a pondless waterfall, or a narrow rill that moves water gently through the garden. The goal does not have to be grandeur. Often, the most beautiful water features are the simplest: a quiet vessel, a soft trickle, or the sound of water near a seating area.

Water can change the atmosphere of a garden. It can mask traffic noise, make a space feel cooler, attract birds and pollinators, and invite people to slow down. Even a modest fountain can make a garden feel more layered and alive.

Water brings refreshment, sound, movement, and a sense of retreat. It reminds us that a garden does not have to be large or elaborate to feel restorative. Sometimes, all it takes is a little shade, a comfortable place to sit, and the gentle gurgle of water nearby.

Q&A with a Water Feature Builder

We talked with Andrew Johnson of River Bed Builders of Kentuckiana about the practical side of installing a home water feature.

What do most people not know about home water features?

What many don’t know would be how small of a space you actually need. We do a lot of bubbling boulders, which you can put right next to a patio or existing area that is already landscaped. It’s a good place to watch birds and have that sound of bubbling water.

What should homeowners consider?

If an area is too shaded for grass or plantings, we can come in with a water feature and transform that space into something functional. I don’t think there’s a better landscape design than one that has water in it.

There are many options to consider, like a koi pond, a pondless waterfall, or even a recreational pond, which are like the size of a swimming pool and can have a waterfall. With these, you can use it to swim in or for fish.

People can have a hard time picking which direction they want to go. We like to point people to our YouTube channel where we showcase options.

What is your specialty?

I really like working with big boulders. The bigger the boulder, the more natural the features will look.

Water features are more artwork than your traditional building projects. Each one is unique. If we can make someone cry tears of joy when seeing the finished product, that’s a win. We get a lot of tears because people usually have been saving and waiting a long time to put their water feature in.

By Tonilyn Hornung | Photo by Melissa Donald

Jim Hesselman: The Architect of Applause

Growing up, Jim Hesselman loved a good rainy day because this meant he could stay inside and watch his favorite programs. “I Love Lucy, The Dick Van Dyke Show, and Andy Griffith — those were formative shows for me,” Jim says.

Years later, when Jim landed his first stage role, he reflected on how the shows of his childhood influenced his love of acting and theater, saying, “I thought, ‘Yes, this is the place I could live.’” And now for over 35 years, this beloved local performer has not only taken on some of musical theater’s most defining roles, but he’s a successful director, produced playwright, and recently retired theater professor at Indiana University Southeast. For Jim, all his world is a stage.

Jim most recently performed in Derby Dinner Playhouse’s production of Hairspray, but his own scripts have had their time in the spotlight as well. His hugely popular original comedy, The Bunco Squad, debuted at Derby Dinner in 2024, telling the heartwarming story of eight women’s monthly dice game. Its sequel, The Bunco Squad Rolls Again, wrapped in February 2026. Spoiler alert: He’s currently writing the third and final installment of the Bunco series.

What have you enjoyed about teaching theater?

I loved teaching theater games. It sounds trite because of the word “game” in the title, but this gave students a foundation that supported basic acting principles, like learning lines or how to work together in an ensemble. However, the bigger picture was that the games showed students how these principles could apply in any phase of life.

What do you like about writing?

It’s something I can do alone. Theater is a group effort that you need other people to create. But I can write at 3 in

the morning or whenever I am inspired. It’s a release and a good balance to performing and directing.

Tell us about your inspiration for The Bunco Squad.

A longtime performer friend suggested I write a show about playing Bunco. I had no idea what that was. But what interested me was all the rituals that developed around it: the club dues, the food, show-and-tell. I needed at least eight women, and that was a good number for the cast size that theaters wanted for their comedies. I based the characters around people I already knew. Eventually, the characters took off on their own.

Did you always plan to write a sequel?

It wasn’t until the first one was so successful that I really started considering a second. There is nothing better than watching an audience laugh or cry at something you have written.

Your favorite part about performing?

When I was younger, I was a quieter person, and being on stage was a safe place to be loud, crazy, and weird. Now that I’m at a different stage in my life, what I love is different. It’s smaller. It’s the process of how you condense and simplify a role down to find the truth of the character.

One thing you can’t quite get the knack of…

I used to think I’d want to tap dance better, but now I would say I regret not having at least learned one other language. Number one, I’d learn Spanish, and number two, I’d learn French.

What do you do on the weekends?

After retiring, weekends are weird because you can lose track of the days. But taking day trips and going up to West Baden and French Lick is pretty awesome for all ages. At all times of the year, everybody can find something they enjoy.

Small-Town

SUMMER

You don’t have to pack an overnight bag for a relaxing outing — just grab a crossbody and spend an afternoon in Jeffersontown, Kentucky, affectionately known as J-town. This vibrant, independent city is located in the southeastern part of Jefferson County within the Louisville Metro area. With its population of 30,000, J-town offers a small-town feel near a major metro area.

Incorporated in 1797, Jeffersontown was named after then-Vice President Thomas Jefferson. According to Beth Wilder, director of the Jeffersontown Historical Museum, J-town was a convenient resting place for travelers and traders during the 1770s on their way to what would become the port city of Louisville. The crossroads that would become the town center became home to taverns, wheelwrights, blacksmiths, and hotels to serve the needs of travelers before they continued on their way.

In modern times, this charming area is packed with character and serves as a cute, walkable downtown hub with local restaurants, shops, and businesses.

The heart of J-town can be found at the intersection of Watterson Trail and Taylorsville Road. Known as the Gaslight Square District, this area was named to commemorate its history as the first town in Kentucky to have gas streetlights.

Although the gas lights were replaced in 1912 with electric ones, the theme was revived in 1966 during a renovation of the town square when an original gas streetlight was discovered. Replicas were commissioned to be placed throughout the square.

But first, coffee

A first stop at Quills Coffee will give just the fuel you need to start your day. Quills is housed in a renovated historic bank with industrial charm and plenty of seating, including an upstairs loft. The working bank vault door behind the barista counter is a favorite source of conversation among visitors.

The Gaslight Diner, locally owned and operated by the Croghan family in a historical 1915 building, is located next door to Quills. It serves breakfast and lunch and offers dinner and a full bar Thursdays through Saturdays in a classic diner atmosphere decorated with local memorabilia and television screens.

Wander on down the block and into locally owned J-Town Hardware and Rental. Note the changing marquis sign with its clever sayings. J-town Hardware was founded in 1938 and is locally owned by Brad and Jennifer Carson since 2015 (Brad worked here in high school!). The store is a fun place to stop in for basic hardware needs as well as paint, outdoor grilling supplies, furniture, and flowers. You’ll also find post office services, a spot for a relaxing checkers game, and of course, the requisite hardware store free popcorn.

Thewarmcommunityfeelingwasevidentin thegreetingIheard:“Y’alldoingallright?”

Step into A Novel Romance, a bookstore featuring a different romance genre in every room, from historical to sports to young adult to contemporary. You will find owner Jonlyn Scrogham behind the counter and happy to recommend your next love story.

Commonwealth Candle Shop + Candle Bar is a great little gift shop full of candles and warmers. If you’d like to pour your own unique candle, you can grab a seat at the candle bar. Allow yourself about an hour for your candle to complete its curing — this would be a great time to see a few more shops or grab lunch before coming back to pick up your candle.

with special needs, known as Epic Chefs, who handle making treats fresh daily.

Wigglewow offers a variety of gourmet dog treats, including un-iced blue bags, colorful iced cookies in a variety of colors and designs, and customized treats for special occasions. These treats are made entirely in-house from start to finish using only whole-food ingredients — plus, according to founder Mark Pfeifer, lots of love in every batch.

Share drinks in a laid-back atmosphere at 3rd Turn Brewing, located in a restored 1878 church. The back deck joins with the adjacent Boone’s Deli, known for its great sandwiches.

The Jeffersontown Veterans Memorial Park was the first park in Kentucky to be dedicated solely to veterans. It is located on 25 beautiful acres and offers open green spaces ideal for recreational activities, including a pavilion and playground. Veterans Memorial Plaza and the Freedom Wall monument were unveiled on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, 2018.

Impressively silhouetted against the sky and flanking the Veterans Walk are a Huey helicopter, an M-60A tank, naval guns, and a 60-foot bronze flagpole.

LIVING OPTIONS: YOU’VE GOT COOL CHOICES

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

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: Starting at $2500 a month, all inclusive • 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.

TURN TOWARD THE SUN

By Carrie Vittitoe

Most of us don’t think much about our circadian rhythms until we have to spring forward or fall back an hour each year. It is at this point that we all remember how much those seemingly slight time alterations mess up our internal clocks. We’re tired, grouchy, and a little out of sorts for a day or more. In 2025, researchers at Stanford Medicine proved how these fluctuations can be harmful to our overall health, not to mention our attitudes at having our sleep routines changed.

Sometimes, though, changes to our circadian rhythms are caused by disease such as dementia, Parkinson’s, or stroke. It is even possible for certain medications to impact our rhythms. Before we can manage when our own, or our loved ones’, internal clocks are out-of-sync, we need a better understanding of what they are and how they function.

What are circadian rhythms?

We don’t actually have clocks within our bodies, of course, but our brains do contain a group of nerve cells called the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). The SCN can be thought of as the timekeeper that sends messages to other parts of the brain, reminding them to send hormones and peptides throughout the body at different times. The pattern of how and when this happens, our “rhythm,” is influenced by things like light, stress, temperature, and disease.

“Circadian rhythms are important to understand as they impact our overall wellbeing and function across the day,” says Dr. Greg E. Cooper, director of Norton Neuroscience Institute Memory Center. “Circadian rhythms help control our alertness, mental sharpness, and sleep.”

Our circadian rhythms change throughout our lives. If you’ve ever spent time with a newborn, you know that they don’t yet have any kind of circadian rhythm, which is why they eat and sleep at all hours of the day and night. Teenagers, too, have shifting rhythms, which is why they tend to stay up later at night and need to sleep later in the morning. As people age, especially beyond 60, they often find their sleeping and waking patterns change once again.

If our circadian rhythms are impaired as a result of disease, Dr. Cooper notes that it can result in less mental clarity and even confusion in the afternoons and evenings, a term commonly known as sundowning among dementia patients.

“Circadian rhythms may become impaired due to degeneration of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), affecting the ability of the retina and brain to respond to light or to other factors in the brain and in our environment,” he adds.

Managing our circadian rhythm

If one’s circadian rhythm is off due to traveling through time zones, or a loved one’s clock is out of sync due to disease, there are steps to help minimize the negative impacts.

Stay on schedule. Dr. Cooper recommends adhering to a schedule as much as reasonably possible and paying attention to external cues.

“Exposure to bright light, particularly in the mornings, can help entrain our rhythms,” he explains. Getting physical exercise is an important piece of getting one’s body back in sync, too.

“EXPOSURE TO BRIGHT LIGHT, PARTICULARLY IN THE MORNINGS, CAN HELP ENTRAIN OUR RHYTHMS.”

Nap with caution. If one’s circadian rhythm is disordered, resulting in irritability and tiredness, it might seem like a nap would set things right. But depending on the length and time of day of the nap, a daytime snooze can actually do more harm than good.

Mind your bedtime habits. It isn’t just a morning routine that matters to our circadian rhythms; so does what we do at bedtime. Unfortunately, the cell phones, tablets, and televisions we watch on a regular basis emit blue light that boosts alertness, reaction times, and our mood, which is exactly what we don’t want to have happen in the evenings when our bodies are

primed to start settling down toward sleep.

Caregivers of individuals with dementia are often encouraged to help their loved ones find calming activities in the evenings rather than watching screens, such as looking through photographs or listening to quiet music.

Watch meal and snack times. When we eat can also play a role in our circadian rhythms. Our bodies generally tend to get hungry at certain times of the day. When we eat at odd hours, the cells in our bodies can’t orchestrate their functions as they normally would. You might think of the tiredness or crankiness you experience as every cell in your body saying, “Get me back into a routine.”

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&A

Q: My grandfather has recently become much less mobile. He cannot walk safely, and my grandma can’t move him very well. The doctors act like this is normal for his situation. What should I do?

A: There are several things that might help your grandfather move better and remain at home. The key is putting together a good, active support system for him to make this happen.

1) He can benefit from in-home nursing and therapy, such as home health care or physical therapy that comes to your house. His doctor can order this. You can also contact an agency such as Hosparus Health. Hosparus offers more than hospice care — it also offers palliative care, which is probably the type of care you need. Either of these options can help you get equipment that might help him move easier. If he qualifies, this should be covered by Medicare.

2) Speaking of equipment, there are good options you can buy or rent to help someone move better, such as a roller walker, standing Hoyer lift, sitting Hoyer lift, and wheelchair, depending on your grandfather’s needs. It’s possible these can be covered by insurance.

3) It sounds like your grandfather needs some onsite caregiving to help take care of his needs. Depending on his circumstances, there are different caregiving options. You can hire caregivers yourself or hire them through an agency, usually paying per hour with a minimum number of hours required.

4) Another option is to consider moving him into an assisted living situation, and there are many good, local care communities that offer this.

Ask More From a Hired Caregiver

What do you think your loved one would benefit from? A few exercises? A daily walk? A midmorning smoothie? A shower? It can be impossible for you to provide these types of things every day, but these are things that hired caregivers can do. Asking your hired caregiver to engage in specific tasks, not just provide minimal care and assistance, should be part of the discussion of expectations for caregiver duties.

If you don’t have someone providing caregiving right now, perhaps you can divide tasks up among family members. Maybe your sibling can stop by daily with a smoothie or morning treat. Perhaps another relative or friend can take your loved one to the local gym for a class once or twice a week, or just lead them through a chair yoga class on YouTube.

Small, daily efforts reduce isolation and add interest into the everyday.

Get Your Loved One Moving

If your loved one uses a wheelchair or has mobility challenges, they can still get some exercise at these local places that are equipped for accessibility.

• The specialized saltwater therapy pool at Home of the Innocents Aquatic Therapy Center in Louisville is heated to 92 degrees for maximum therapeutic benefit. It’s also equipped with an aquatic wheelchair, a stretcher lift, a zero-depth entry ramp, and an exercise bench, making it fully accessible for individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges. The pool is open at a cost of $12.50 an hour, and reservations are required.

• The Community Fitness and Wellness gym at UofL Health – Frazier Rehabilitation Institute is a fully accessible fitness gym that has specialized equipment for wheelchair users. It functions with memberships like most typical gyms.

Make a Sweet Stop

It’s worth a trip for a massive Strawberry Blonde (pictured) or S’mores sundae at Louisville Cream in the Nulu area. Or try the mega cookie sandwich, which is nothing close to the ice cream sandwiches you’ve had. Pick the type of cookie and ice cream you want and be ready for a heaping mouthful of goodness. We especially love the Salted Chocolate Chip or Birthday Cup cookies and the Royal Chocolate or Bourbon Smoked Pecan ice cream flavors. You can also find pints of their ice cream in many local stores and restaurants such as Kroger, ValuMarket, and Rainbow Blossom.

Photo: @louisvillecream

Q: My mom is becoming more homebound — by choice. My dad died seven years ago, and she has become increasingly isolated. How can I help her?

A: Your mom could be depressed. She could be stuck in her grieving. She could be afraid. It is hard to say exactly what she needs, but here are some places to start.

Talk to her about whether she feels depressed and if she thinks she could use some pharmaceutical help from a small dose of antidepressant. Another option would be to seek out talk therapy for her to help her get unstuck.

Try to get her to go on some small outings. I believe we often overwhelm our older loved ones by saying they should get out and do things when it would be more helpful to just join them in something. This summer, a drive to get ice cream or to see an outdoor band might be a good starting point. Address the loneliness. Has she had some friends pass away? Does she no longer feel she fits with friends who are part of couples? You may be able to encourage her to join a group for an activity she enjoys. Ideas include sewing or crafting groups, church groups, Silver Sneakers exercise classes, or walking or nature groups. Isolation is detrimental to health, so you are correct to be concerned about the situation.

“YOU HAVE TO PICK THE PLACES YOU DON’T WALK AWAY FROM.”

– JOAN DIDION

Spying – Just a Little

These tech tools can help you find out if your loved one needs more assistance.

Purchase a smart fitness tracker like the Apple Watch Series 10, Fitbit Charge 6, or Samsung Galaxy Fit3 to track a wide range of health and wellness metrics including heart rate, blood oxygen levels, blood pressure, physical activity, and sleep. These allow both the wearer and caregiver to track health conditions in real time, with continuous advances in safety features like fall detection and automatically calling emergency services.

Never sure your mom is taking her medication correctly?

Medication reminder apps such as MyTherapy, Medisafe, and Pillboxie provide helpful prompts. These apps assist with dosage tracking, provide prescription renewal alerts, and allow for dual connectivity so caregivers can monitor activity.

– Kym Voorhees Raque

Prep Some Everyday Meals

When you are helping someone, gifting them food is a natural response. Treats and comfort food can add to the mental and physical healing of those who are going through pain. However, needs differ when you realize someone is unable to prepare regular everyday meals. If you need to take on weekly meal prep for your loved one, here’s how to break it down into a manageable system.

Step 1: Find the right containers. You want the food to be in individual portions and look appetizing. And, it should be able to be microwaved and run through the dishwasher.

Step 2: Decide on some basic food items and do the grocery shopping. Don’t worry too much about offering variety; focus on meals that are nutritious, tasty, and easy to eat. Here are three simple ideas.

Meal 1

• 3-4oz chicken breast

• ½ medium sweet potato

• ½ medium zucchini

• One-third bell pepper

We like these Pyrex glass containers for individual servings. Reynolds makes plant fiber disposable Heat & Eat containers that work too. It’s important to portion food into individual servings rather than drop off a large, overwhelming casserole.

Meal 2

• 3-4oz chicken breast

• ½-¾ cup brown rice

• 1 cup broccoli

Step 3: Prepare the food all at once.

For the chicken: Sprinkle with your desired seasonings. We liked it with Kosher salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon. Another good one is Trader Joe’s Everyday Seasoning (which is good on everything!). Bake the chicken or air fry it. Brown the hamburger until done. Cook rice according to directions.

For the veggies: Bake or microwave sweet potatoes and cut into rounds. Dice peppers into small pieces. Cut up or spiralize zucchini. Microwave or steam green beans and broccoli.

Meal 3

• 3-4oz ground beef

• One-third bell pepper

• 1 cup green beans (we used frozen)

Step 4: Measure out food into individual containers. Refrigerate and deliver to your loved one (or freeze them for later). The food should be eaten within the week. You or your loved one can warm one up, add a pat of butter or a shake of salt, and enjoy.

You can also add a couple sweet treats or some fruit for desserts for the week.

Last note: If you can’t or don’t want to make food yourself, there are many local places where you can order or pick up meals. Find some ideas on page 30 and more on TodaysTransitionsNow.com.

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

105 S. Sherrin Avenue Louisville, Ky 40207 (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

Our care is designed around each client’s unique needs and daily routines. Every Care Professional is thoroughly screened, trained, and thoughtfully matched. Whether you’re coming home from the hospital or need ongoing support, we can help you stay safe and independent at home. Call for your FREE consultation.

Services: companionship, transportation, medication reminders, Alzheimer’s and dementia care, personal care, end-of-life support, respite care, meal preparation, light housekeeping, errands, post-rehab recovery support, and more.

Price per hour: $35.50 w/ special rate for Couples Care | Min. time required: No minimum time required | 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 60. For retirement Living Options Directory, see page 46.

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

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 Stay Connected With Our Newsletters

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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: From $130 a day, all inclusive Treyton Oak Towers provides individualized service with dignity and respect.

As needs change over time, Treyton Oak Towers is designed to support residents through every stage of life. Our warm, caring environment allows residents to remain in the place they call home, even as their circumstances evolve.

We offer a full continuum of care, with additional levels of support available should the need arise. With our all-inclusive pricing, residents and families know in advance what they can expect to pay, providing clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.

Our mission is to plan ahead so you don’t have to—guided always by dignity and respect.

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: $3,600+

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

• Hosparus Health just opened its new Hosparus Health Thrift Shop in Louisville’s Outer Loop Plaza at the end of May. Like its fellow shops in Elizabethtown and Campbellsville, the store will offer affordable secondhand clothing, accessories, home goods, and more, creating a new shopping and donation destination for local residents while supporting compassionate care for patients and families across Kentuckiana.

• The UofL Trager Institute’s 2026 Optimal Aging Conference in April was a big success, wrapping up two days packed with insights from leaders in aging care. More than 200 attendees learned about lifestyle medicine, innovative aging research, and practical tools for improving quality of life.

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

By Carrie Vittitoe

Try This!

What plans do you have for the summer months?

Are you spending time on the golf course or at the pool? Or are you seeking the air conditioning of the movie theater’s matinees?

Whatever your interests, we’ve got some suggestions for activities to nudge you a little outside your norm.

Celebrate the Semiquincentennial

This year marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. And no matter how old you are, there are always things to learn about our nation’s history. For example, you might think the Battle of Yorktown was the final fight of the American Revolution. But in fact, the Battle of Blue Licks in Carlisle, Kentucky, in 1782 was one of the last. On Saturday, Aug 15, 2026, there will be a Battle of Blue Licks memorial ceremony to commemorate the event. To learn more about other semiquincentennial events, check out the Kentucky Historical Society.

Run, swim, bike — or just watch

On July 12, triathletes will test their stamina by swimming in the Ohio River followed by riding and running through downtown Louisville. If this is your jam, you’ve probably already signed up through Tri Louisville. Even if you are not a swimming, biking, and running kind of person, it might be fun to just watch it all go down and cheer on the athletes, or volunteer to help it all run smoothly.

Modern art at Jasteka

If you have an interest in modern art, books, or creativity, you may want to venture to Jeffersonville where the Jasteka Cultural Center sits. This modern art gallery and community space offers several programs including ABCs: Art, Books & Coffee on July 11, 2026. Attendees will discuss Praisesong for the Kitchen Ghosts: Stories and Recipes from Five Generations of Black Country Cooks by Crystal Wilkinson and look at Henry Taylor’s painting titled “The Young, The Brave, Bobby Hutton” R.I.P. Oakland, California. To learn more, visit jasteka.org.

Go for the laughs

Grab some friends and head to Louisville Comedy Club on Main Street, where you can see some famous and maybe soon-to-be-famous comedians. June 2026 features shows from big names like Sheryl Underwood, Steve-O, and Tiffany Haddish. You can grab a bite to eat at one of the nearby restaurants or eat at the venue before the show.