Read the latest edition of our community newsletter to learn more about news and activities at Victorian Village Senior Community!
SEPTEMBER 2025 Life Style VICTORIAN VILLAGE
Life at Victorian Village A Message from Tammy Tjoelker
As summer gives way to fall this month, we harvest the season’s best fruits and vegetables from our beautiful garden at Victorian Village, we bask in the summer warmth on our patios and porches, and we begin to enjoy the cooler evenings that lead
house, and Hope house. The event takes place on September 4, starting at 4:30 p.m., and all residents are invited to enjoy a Hawaiian feast, Hawaiian dance performances, and a steel drum experience. As we look forward to the bounty of harvest and celebrations, may we remember to live in thankfulness and gratitude for all that we have been given. May we look around for opportunities to help one another and offer an encouraging word to bring joy to those around us. Together, we will face the adventures that await us this month and feel refreshed as the seasons change. Blessings from our Creator God are flowing into our lives every day, and we are encouraged to take the time to enjoy this abundant season together.
into earlier sunsets and refreshing nights. We marvel at our Creator God for the goodness He has given us in the continuation of seasons and a community where we can enjoy growth, gathering, and abundant living. This September, an encouragement goes out to each one of us to relish the days of bringing in the harvest, preparing for our next season, and watching the beautiful sunsets with our dearest friends at Victorian Village. Take time to be in fellowship with one another and participate in all the wonderful events coming onto our campus. One event we all look forward to is our all- campus picnic, and this year we have planned for an unforgettable Hawaiian Luau experience where we will truly experience the bonding among all residents from our Victorian Courts townhomes, Independent living, Assisted living, Memory support, Health and Wellness, Faith
www.VictorianVillage.com (708) 301-0800 | vv@provlife.com | 12600 Renaissance Circle | Homer Glen, IL 60491
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Life Enrichment Activities for September
1 st
Catholic Mass 10:00 a.m. — Inn 1st Floor Living Room Fr. Joe McCormick from St. Bernard’s Catholic Parish will celebrate Mass. Lunch Outing: Chesdan’s 11:00 a.m. Bus Departure Sign up in the What’s Happening book Labor Day Bingo 3:00 p.m. — Grand Activity Room Wear red, white & blue for an extra Bingo coupon! Shopping Trip: Walgreens Senior Discount Day & Aldi 9:30 a.m. Bus Departure Sign up in the What’s Happening book All Campus Picnic: Hawaiian Luau 4:30 p.m. — Parking Lot Hawaiian Feast at 4:30 p.m., Hawaiian Dancers at 5:30 p.m., Steel Drum Soloist at 6:00 p.m. All residents invited.
9 th
Happy Hour 3:00 p.m. — Grand Fireside Lounge
Shopping Trip: Walmart (Orland Park) 9:30 a.m. Bus Departure Sign up in the What’s Happening book
9 th
1 st
9 th
Grand Resident Meeting 1:30 p.m. — Grand Activity Center
10 th Fun & Fellowship Games
1 st
1:00 p.m. — Grand Fireside Lobby Please join the group of volunteers from Palos CRC that visit to lead table games, and they always provide fellowship and cookies!
2 nd
11 th Alzheimer’s Fundraiser:
Purchase Pretzels & Toppings 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Grand Fireside Lobby
4 th
12 th Christian Service
with Pastor Rick Schauer 1:00 p.m. — Grand Activity Center Pastor Rick Schauer from Trinity Lutheran will lead the Christian service.
8 th
Homer Glen Rolling Library 10:30 a.m. — Inn Living Room
12 th Baking Club
8 th
Happy Hour 3:00 p.m. — Inn Living Room
2:00 p.m. — Grand Activity Center Bake a new recipe for the Victorian Village cookbook (coming in December).
www.VictorianVillage.com (708) 301-0800 | vv@provlife.com | 12600 Renaissance Circle | Homer Glen, IL 60491
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16 th Shopping Trip: Meijer 9:30 a.m. Bus Departure
24 th Card-Making Craft
1:30 p.m. — Grand Activity Center Join volunteers Linda & Ellen for a card- making craft. All materials are provided
Sign up in the What’s Happening book
19 th Craft Vendor Fair at the Grand 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. 17 th Bingo with Bethshan Residents 6:00 p.m. — Grand Activity Center
25 th Alzheimer’s Fundraiser: Pizza & Basket Raffle
11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. — Pizza Sale 1:30 p.m. — Basket Raffle Grand Fireside Lobby
Bill Schepel will bring residents from the group CILA homes to visit and play bingo with our Victorian Village residents.
26 th Victorian Inn Resident Council Meeting 11:00 a.m. — Inn Living Room 27 th Forestview Express Bluegrass Band 1:30 p.m. — Grand Fireside Lobby
18 th Alzheimer’s Fundraiser:
Purchase Nachos & Toppings 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Grand Fireside Lobby
22 nd Homer Glen Rolling Library 10:30 a.m. — Inn Living Room
29 th Fall Prevention Presentation 1:00 p.m. — Grand Activity Center
Led by Stacy, senior fitness specialist.
22 nd Happy Hour
3:00 p.m. — Inn Living Room
30 th Trader Joe’s Shopping 9:30 a.m. Bus Departure
23 rd Shopping Trip:
Sign up in the What’s Happening book
Jewel Osco & Dollar Tree 9:30 a.m. Bus Departure Sign up in the What’s Happening book
30 th The Patio Lunch Outing 11:00 a.m. Bus Departure
Sign up in the What’s Happening book
23 rd Happy Hour
3:00 p.m. — Grand Fireside Lounge
30 th Crazy Bunco
1:30 p.m. — Grand Activity Center
www.VictorianVillage.com (708) 301-0800 | vv@provlife.com | 12600 Renaissance Circle | Homer Glen, IL 60491
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News from the Courts Courts Happy Hour (Held the 3 rd Tuesday of each month) Tuesday, August 16 th 4:30 p.m. — Courts Community Center Courts Potluck Thursday, September 25th 12:00 p.m. — Courts Community Center
All Campus Picnic: Hawaiian Luau Thursday, September 4 4:30 p.m. Join us in the parking area between Victorian Inn and Grand Victorian for our annual All Campus Picnic! All residents are invited to attend and enjoy from Victorian Courts, Victorian Inn, Grand Victorian, Victorian Village Health and Wellness, Faith House, and Hope House.
At 5:30 p.m. Hawaiian Dancers will perform followed by a Steel Drum Soloist at 6:00 p.m.
Team Victorian Village will be walking on Saturday, October 4th. There are many ways to help raise funds for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Here’s how YOU can help right here at Victorian Village! • Baskets on Display: September 1 st –25 th
Marquette Bank Full-Service Banking Thursdays at 10:00 a.m. Private Dining Room at the Grand We offer on-site banking with Marquette Bank to provide services to our residents. Banking services are set up in our private dining room at the Grand and is available
• Pretzel Sale: September 11 th • Nacho Sale: September 18 th • Pizza Sale: September 25 th • Basket Raffle: September 25 th
every Thursday: • September 4 th • September 11 th
• September 18 th • September 25 th
www.VictorianVillage.com (708) 301-0800 | vv@provlife.com | 12600 Renaissance Circle | Homer Glen, IL 60491
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Chaplain’s Corner: The Disciples Return
woman at a well, when He was wearied with His journey--all this was amazing to the eleven disciples. It was a sort of thing which they did not expect. It was contrary to their idea of what a religious teacher should do. It startled them and filled them with surprise. The feeling displayed by the disciples on this occasion is not unique in the Bible. When our Lord allowed publicans and sinners to draw near to Him and be in His company, the Pharisees marveled. They exclaimed, "This man welcomes sinners and eats with them" (Luke 15:2). When Saul came back from Damascus, a converted man and a new creature, the Christians in Jerusalem were astonished. "They did not believe that he was a disciple" (Acts 9:26). When Peter was delivered from Herod's prison by an angel and brought to the door of the house where disciples were praying for his deliverance, they were
“At that very moment, his disciples came back. They were shocked because he was speaking with a woman. However, no one said, "What do you want?" or "Why are you speaking with her?" Then the woman left her water jar, went off into the town, and said to the people, "Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Surely he can’t be the Messiah, can he?" So they left the town and began coming to him.” These verses continue the well-known story of the Samaritan woman's conversion. Short as the passage may appear, it contains points of deep interest and importance. The mere worldling, who cares nothing about experimental religion, may see nothing particular in these verses. To all who desire to know something of the experience of a converted person, they will be found full of food for thought. We see, firstly, in this passage, how marvelous in the eyes of man are Christ's dealings with souls. We are told that the disciples "marveled that he talked with the woman." That their Master should take the trouble to talk to a woman at all, and to a Samaritan woman, and to an adulterous
so taken by surprise that they could not believe it was Peter. When they “saw him, they were greatly astonished" (Acts 12:16)
But why should we stop short in Bible instances? The true Christian has only to look around him in this world to see abundant illustrations of the truth before us. How much astonishment every fresh conversion occasions. What surprise is expressed at the change in the heart, life, tastes, and habits of the converted person!
www.VictorianVillage.com (708) 301-0800 | vv@provlife.com | 12600 Renaissance Circle | Homer Glen, IL 60491
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What wonder is felt at the power, the mercy, the patience, the compassion of Christ! It is now as it was eighteen hundred years ago. The dealings of Christ are still a marvel both to the Church and to the world. If there were more real faith on the earth, there would be less surprise felt at the conversion of souls. If Christians believed more, they would expect more, and if they understood Christ better, they would be less startled and astonished when He calls and saves the chief of sinners. We should consider nothing impossible, and regard no sinner as beyond the reach of the grace of God. The astonishment expressed at conversions is proof of the weak faith and ignorance of these latter days. The thing that ought to fill us with surprise is the obstinate unbelief of the ungodly, and their determined perseverance in the way to ruin. This was the mind of Christ. It is written that He thanked the Father for conversions. But He marveled at unbelief. (Matt. 11:25; Mark 6:6). We see, secondly, in this passage, how absorbing is the influence of grace when it first comes into a believer's heart. We are told that after our Lord had told the woman He was the Messiah, "She left her water-pot and went her way into the city, and said to the men, Come, see a man which told me all things that ever I did." She had left her home for the express purpose of drawing water. She had carried a large vessel to the well, intending to bring it back filled with water. But she found at the well a new heart and new objects of interest. She became a new creature. Old things have passed away. All things
became new. At once, everything else was forgotten for the time. She could think of nothing but the truths she had heard and the Savior she had found. In the fullness of her heart, she "left her water-pot," and hastened away to tell others. We see here the expulsive power of the grace of the Holy
Spirit. Grace once introduced into the heart drives out old
tastes and interests. A converted person no longer cares for what he once cared for. A new tenant is in the house. A new pilot is at the helm. The whole world looks different. All things have become new. It was so with Matthew the tax- collector. The moment that grace came into his heart, he left the receipt of custom. (Matt. 9:9). It was so with Peter, James, John, and Andrew. As soon as they were converted, they forsook their nets and fishing boats. (Mark 1:19). It was so with Saul the Pharisee. As soon as he became a Christian, he gave up all his brilliant prospects as a Jew to preach the faith he had once despised. (Acts 9:20). The conduct of the Samaritan woman was precisely of the same kind. At present, the salvation she had found completely filled her mind. That she never returned for her water-pot would be more than we have a right to say. But under the first impressions of new spiritual life, she went away and "left her water-pot" behind. Conduct like that described here is, doubtless, uncommon in the present day. Rarely do we see a person so entirely taken up with spiritual
www.VictorianVillage.com (708) 301-0800 | vv@provlife.com | 12600 Renaissance Circle | Homer Glen, IL 60491
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matters that attention to this world's affairs is made a secondary matter or postponed. And why is it so? Simply because true conversions to God are uncommon. Few really feel their sins and flee to Christ by faith. Few really pass from death to life, and become new creatures. Yet these few are the real Christians of the world. These are the people whose religion, like the Samaritan woman's, tells on others. Happy are they who know something by experience of this woman's feelings, and can say with Paul, "I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ" (Philip. 3:8 KJV) Happy are they who have given up everything for Christ's sake, or at any rate have altered the relative importance of all things in their minds! If your “eye be single, your whole body shall be full of light" (Matt. 6:22 KJV). We see, lastly, in this passage, how zealous a truly converted person is to do good to others. We are told that the Samaritan woman "went into the city, and said to the men, Come, see a
way, the Samaritan woman said, "Come and see Christ." She used no abstruse arguments. She attempted no deep reasoning about our Lord's claim to be the Messiah. She only said, "Come and see." Out of the abundance of her heart, her mouth spoke. That which the Samaritan woman here did, all true Christians ought to do likewise. The Church needs it. The state of the world demands it. Common sense points out that it is right. Everyone who has received the grace of God and tasted that Christ is gracious ought to find words to testify of Christ to others. Where is our faith, if we believe that souls around us are perishing, and that Christ alone can save them, and yet remain silent? Where is our charity if we can see others going down to hell, and yet say nothing to them about Christ and salvation? We may well doubt our own love for Christ if our hearts are never moved to speak of Him. We may well doubt the safety of our own souls if we feel no concern about the souls of others. What are WE ourselves? This, after all, is the question that demands our attention. Do we feel the supreme importance of spiritual things, and the comparative nothingness of the things of the world? Do we ever talk to others about God, and Christ, and eternity, and the soul, and heaven, and hell? If not, what is the value of our faith? Where is the reality of our Christianity? Let us take heed lest we awake too late, and find that we are lost forever, a wonder to angels
man who told me all things that ever I did--is not this the Christ?" On the day of her conversion, she became a missionary! She felt so deeply the amazing benefit she had received from
Christ that she could not remain silent about Him. Just as Andrew told his brother Peter about Jesus, and Philip told Nathanael that he had found the Messiah, and Saul, when converted, immediately preached Christ, so, in the same
and devils, and, above all, a wonder to ourselves, because of our own obstinate blindness and folly.
www.VictorianVillage.com (708) 301-0800 | vv@provlife.com | 12600 Renaissance Circle | Homer Glen, IL 60491
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Senior Fitness with Symbria Safe Steps: Practical Ways to Prevent Falls in Seniors COMMON FALL RISK FACTORS
Falls represent a significant threat to the health and independence of older adults. Even a minor tumble can result in fractures, hospitalizations, and a dramatic lifestyle change. As the leading cause of injury-related emergency room visits among seniors, falls underscore the urgency of proactive prevention. Yet, with the right combination of awareness, home modifications, physical conditioning, and community support, falls—and their life-altering consequences—can often be avoided. This comprehensive guide explores the myriad factors contributing to fall risk and presents actionable strategies for safeguarding senior well-being. WHY FALL PREVENTION IS PARAMOUNT A single fall can have far-reaching impacts. Beyond the immediate pain and potential for fractures, it can erode a senior’s confidence in daily activities. Fear of falling again often leads to reduced activity levels, social withdrawal, and even depression or anxiety. This inactivity contributes to muscle weakness and poorer balance, setting the stage for a dangerous cycle of repeated falls. Fortunately, many falls are preventable through awareness and planning. Identifying risk factors— like poor vision, certain medications, and home hazards—lays the groundwork for effective interventions that help older adults remain active, independent, and safe.
While anyone can trip or slip, older adults often face specific health or environmental factors that elevate fall risk: y Physical Weakness: Loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia) and decreased bone density can make it harder to maintain balance. y Chronic Health Conditions: Diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, or neuropathy can reduce stability and sensation in the feet. y Medications: Sedatives, painkillers, or blood pressure drugs may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. y Vision and Hearing Impairments: Poor eyesight or compromised hearing can impair spatial awareness and reaction times. y Cognitive Issues: Dementia or mild cognitive impairment may lead to confusion, difficulty judging distances, or forgetting to use mobility aids. y Home Hazards: Loose rugs, clutter, poor lighting, and uneven floors can trip up even those with good balance. Addressing these risk factors requires an integrated approach, often involving family, home healthcare providers, medical professionals, and community resources.
www.VictorianVillage.com (708) 301-0800 | vv@provlife.com | 12600 Renaissance Circle | Homer Glen, IL 60491
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y Balance-Focused Activities: Tai chi and yoga emphasize slow, deliberate movements and deep breathing, which cultivate better balance and mental focus. Chair yoga can be a safer variant for those with significant mobility challenges. Meanwhile, standing heel-to- toe or single-leg stance exercises target key
HOME SAFETY MEASURES Because a high percentage of falls happen at home, creating a hazard-free living space is a top priority. The goal is to eliminate or reduce obstacles that might cause a slip or trip. y Lighting and Visibility: Ample lighting is essential, especially in hallways, staircases, and entrances. Nightlights or motion- activated lamps offer consistent illumination for nocturnal trips to the bathroom or kitchen. Seniors should also consider higher-watt LED bulbs to reduce glare and enhance clarity. y Flooring and Clutter Reduction: Remove or secure throw rugs with slip-resistant backing. Clear walkways of cords, pet toys, or small furniture pieces. If the home has different flooring levels, use colored tape or transition strips to highlight uneven surfaces. y Grab Bars and Handrails: Installing grab bars near toilets, showers, and bathtubs significantly reduces slip risks. Staircases should have sturdy railings on both sides for balanced support. For more comprehensive changes, consult experts in home safety modifications who can suggest wider doorways or wheelchair ramps if needed. y Physical Conditioning and Exercise: Frailty and muscle weakness are major contributors to falls. Engaging in a regular exercise routine helps seniors strengthen their legs, improve balance, and maintain flexibility.
stabilizer muscles in the lower body. y Strength Training: Simple resistance
exercises—like seated leg lifts, chair squats, or using light hand weights—help maintain muscle mass. Many physical therapy programs include such strengthening routines, tailored to each individual’s capabilities and limitations. Gradual progression is vital; overexertion can lead to injury or discouragement.
Live & Learn Understanding Your Fall Risk:
Low to Moderate Risk Thursday, September 29 th
1:00 p.m. in the Grand Activity Center Symbria has incorporated the Zibrio Balance Scale. This technology-based scale will give you a score from 1 to 10. We will discuss what your score means, how you can prevent falling, and personal factors. As well as environmental factors. Join Stacy for a hands-on look at the Zibrio Balance Scale and discover how it provides insights into your balance and fall risk.
www.VictorianVillage.com (708) 301-0800 | vv@provlife.com | 12600 Renaissance Circle | Homer Glen, IL 60491
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Sharing Life & Making Memories
August was filled with sunshine, laughter, and unforgettable moments at Victorian Village! 🌻 From lively socials to special programs, our community came together for fun, friendship, and plenty of smiles. Residents enjoyed everything from our enchanting Garden Magician program with Trent James to spirited games like Grand Balloon Volleyball, Bean Bag Toss, Word Games, and “Roll a Sunflower.” We cooled off with refreshing Watermelon Socials and Root Beer Floats at each location, and gathered for traditions like the Monthly Hot Breakfast (complete with mimosas!) at the Grand Victorian. Memory Support residents stayed active with bus rides, Rock Around the Clock fun, and card games, while Assisted Living joined in for scenic outings and laughter-filled activities. The month wrapped up with a show-stopping event—our 1st Annual Classic Car Show—bringing residents, families, and friends together for a day of nostalgia and community pride. 🚗✨ Flip through the photos and enjoy the special memories we created together this month!
www.VictorianVillage.com (708) 301-0800 | vv@provlife.com | 12600 Renaissance Circle | Homer Glen, IL 60491
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www.VictorianVillage.com (708) 301-0800 | vv@provlife.com | 12600 Renaissance Circle | Homer Glen, IL 60491
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www.VictorianVillage.com (708) 301-0800 | vv@provlife.com | 12600 Renaissance Circle | Homer Glen, IL 60491
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www.VictorianVillage.com (708) 301-0800 | vv@provlife.com | 12600 Renaissance Circle | Homer Glen, IL 60491
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www.VictorianVillage.com (708) 301-0800 | vv@provlife.com | 12600 Renaissance Circle | Homer Glen, IL 60491
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www.VictorianVillage.com (708) 301-0800 | vv@provlife.com | 12600 Renaissance Circle | Homer Glen, IL 60491
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www.VictorianVillage.com (708) 301-0800 | vv@provlife.com | 12600 Renaissance Circle | Homer Glen, IL 60491
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www.VictorianVillage.com (708) 301-0800 | vv@provlife.com | 12600 Renaissance Circle | Homer Glen, IL 60491
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Victorian Village Announcements
ALZHEIMER’S
The Victorian Village family extends heartfelt birthday greetings to all of our residents celebrating birthdays in September!
GROUP
Tuesday, September 16th 5:00-6:00 p.m. Inn Private Dining Room
Live & Learn Pain Management: Keys to Better Living Thursday, September 18 th
In cooperation with the Alzheimer’s Association, Victorian Village offers an Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group that meets the third Tuesday of every month and allows caregivers to take a break and get recharged to continue to be the caregiver their loved one needs. This is a time to share and learn from others who are experiencing a similar journey to the one that you are on. Please join us if this topic interests you. Please RSVP one day in advance by calling (708) 645-2122.
10:00 a.m. in the Grand Activity Center Do you live with daily pain and/or chronic inflammation related to injury or a chronic condition? Would you like to lower your pain? If so, this presentation is for you. Join Stacy to learn more about triggers of pain while considering tactics, and interventions that may help you lessen your pain and improve your life.
www.VictorianVillage.com (708) 301-0800 | vv@provlife.com | 12600 Renaissance Circle | Homer Glen, IL 60491
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