Take a look at our September newsletter!
September 2022
5274 Scotts Valley Dr., #102 Scotts Valley, CA 95066 831-430-0616 229 Reindollar Ave., Suite E Marina, CA 93933 831-392-0876 www.VisitingAngels.com/CentralCoast
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Our caregivers are at the heart and soul of Visiting Angels. Everything we do for adult children and their parents wouldn’t be possible without them. They dedicate their time to seniors and sacrifice time with their loved ones to provide the best care for others in need. I’m inspired by our caregivers daily because seeing how much they care about our clients and the relationships they form with them is beautiful. Our caregivers truly put the “angels” in Visiting Angels. There are several characteristics I would use to describe our caregivers. First, our caregivers are flexible. Each time they enter a senior’s home, they must learn what issues and conditions their senior has. We work with people dealing with all kinds of illnesses and diseases: diabetes, heart disorders, Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s, and more. Because of the various people we have the honor of working with, our caregivers must be knowledgeable about these different scenarios and understand which actions to take and how to react if something goes wrong. Not only do our caregivers need to be flexible when caring for individuals with different medical conditions, but they also need be able to handle different personalities. Everyone has a different communication method, and caregivers must be able to converse with others using that specific method. They are patient with their clients because it may take seniors time to trust them, engage with them, and voice their concerns. Being THEIR DEDICATION WILL NEVER GO UNNOTICED Giving Thanks to Our Caregivers
open to negativity and learning to handle criticism are other critical skills our caregivers learn. Sometimes seniors can become frustrated or grumpy — and they can take it out on others. This can be challenging, but our caregivers navigate these situations with grace and respect. I can’t thank our caregivers enough for their hard work and dedication. They go above and beyond each day for our clients. The role of a caregiver, either filled by an adult child or one of our visiting angels, is never an easy task. In honor of Labor Day, let’s give thanks to the caregivers in our lives and the incredible work they do each day. Here are a few ways we can show our gratitude this month. 1. Simply say thank you. Sometimes, we get so caught up in what’s happening around us that we forget how a simple “thank you” can positively impact someone’s day. Giving thanks to a caregiver shows them that they are appreciated and valued. Acknowledging their hard work ensures the caregiver that their efforts mean
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THE IMPORTANCE OF SOCIALIZATION IN RETIREMENT GET OUT AND MINGLE
Reduces Stress In today’s world, stress can creep up easily. Whether it’s a busy schedule, worry about family members, fear of shifts in the economy, or unstable current events overseas that keep you on edge and anxious, get out and do something! A night out with a friend or even just time spent chatting with a family member on the phone can help to reduce stress. Increases Self-Worth Social activities such as exercise classes, group dinners, walks with a friend, or events at a clubhouse are great ways to build friendships. While friendships are a two-way street, being on the giving side can help you feel needed and increase your self-worth. To be good company is a great way to help others, which makes you feel great about yourself, too!
As humans, we thrive on love and companionship. In our golden years, that desire and the benefits that come from it don’t go away. In fact, socialization is especially important for seniors. According to a study from the Harvard School of Public Health, a healthy social life in your 50s and 60s slows down the rates of memory loss and deterioration. It also provides many other positive benefits. Fosters Positivity After your working years come to a close and you no longer interact with coworkers, loneliness and isolation have a higher chance of settling in. Socialization is key to keeping your spirits high. So, to create and maintain positive relationships, make plans with friends and family to keep yourself busy and entertained.
Engagement, socialization, and creating meaningful relationships are necessary components of being happy and healthy, especially as you age. So, sign up for water aerobics, take that group pottery class, go fishing with your friends, take your neighbor up on that walk, and go to that party! You just might have a great time, and you’ll never regret interacting with others!
RETURNING TO LEARNING AFTER RETIREMENT New Experiences Are Good for Your Brain
As the saying goes, we never stop learning, right? And after retirement is the perfect
social interaction, and reduces stress. Keeping your mind active also helps prevent cognitive decline later on in life and may even prevent mild forms of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Helps You Keep Up With the Times Are you struggling with new and constantly evolving technology? Would you like to learn how to use a smartphone or tablet to keep in touch with friends and family? Introductory courses are the perfect way to learn new tricks and secrets about technology while having some fun, too! Benefits Your Mental Health Attending courses, whether they be online or in person, is a great way to give yourself a greater sense of purpose, self-worth, and belonging, which can improve your mental health. Having
something to be excited about, look forward to, and to better yourself after your working years are through is also a healthy way to stay busy.
place to keep learning! Because of what we know about brain plasticity, adopting new interests and passions is a great way to improve your mental acuity. Local colleges, trade schools, learning institutes, and online platforms offer many resources for continuing education, some of which are geared toward older adults. For most, continuing education in retirement isn’t even a thought, but there are many reasons to return to learning, regardless of your age!
Increases Socialization Opportunities
In retirement, there are fewer reasons to interact with others on a daily basis. Gone are the days in the office, the business trips, and the luncheons. Life in retirement can be a bit quiet at times. Continuing your education gives you opportunities to interact with others who share the same interests. Whether you’re looking for a way to dabble in a new hobby or you have something you’d like to learn more about, continuing your education has many benefits and is enjoyable at any age! Keep your brain young!
Improves Cognitive Skills and Function
Studies show that continuing to learn as you age improves your memory, enhances your well-being, increases
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ENHANCE YOUR QUALITY OF LIFE 3 Tips to Practice Self-Care
3. Spend time with friends. Being surrounded by the ones you love and those
Self-care is necessary no matter how old you are. Putting yourself first and improving yourself can lead to less stress and improve your physical and mental health — especially for seniors. In honor of September being Self-Improvement Month, here are three ways older adults can practice self-care to enhance their quality of life. 1. Be proactive with your health. We only have one body and mind, so let’s take great care of it! Schedule your annual medical, eye, and dental exams to ensure your body works properly. You may be able to catch minor issues before they turn into larger problems. You should also try to eat more healthy foods, get enough sleep, and exercise daily. If you’re struggling mentally, confide in someone you trust and share your concerns with them. Sometimes talking about it makes you feel better. 2. Do something you enjoy every day. Practicing something you enjoy has more benefits than you may think. So, try to practice enjoyment daily. This can be anything you want — or anything you’ve always wanted to do. Stepping out of your comfort zone will give you more confidence and help you learn new things. In addition, it will increase your creativity and may inspire you to take other risks or try other things you’ve never done before.
who make you feel more like
yourself will never be beaten. Friends give you a sense of belonging; you can share stories with them and reminisce
about the old days. If you want to create more friends, volunteer for a cause you’re passionate about to find like- minded people. Or you can join a club to find others who enjoy the same activities as you. It can also be easier to improve yourself when you acknowledge that you may need help with your aging parent. We care about you and your loved one and want you to enjoy the time you spend together. If you need assistance caring for the older adults in your life, allow your friends at Visiting Angels to help. We will be happy to assist you in any way that we can.
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No-Fuss Chicken and Rice Soup
a lot to you and your loved one. Caring for others is never easy — knowing that their work doesn’t go unnoticed is beneficial in more ways than one. 2. Write a thank-you note. There is something so powerful about a handwritten letter. Write specific things you appreciate about your caregiver — including the little things! You could also explain how their help impacts you and your loved ones. Writing a message is very meaningful to the recipient and is something your caregiver will cherish for years to come. So, whether your loved ones have a caregiver or another family member is caring for one of your loved ones, or you know someone who is a caregiver, tell them how much you appreciate their work. A small act of kindness can go a long way. To our caregivers at Visiting Angels, thank you for everything you do. Your hard work and dedication to our clients will never go unnoticed. Cindy Saunders EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Fall is almost here, so it’s time to break out the soup! Your family is sure to love this recipe — it’s a classic.
Ingredients • 2 tbsp olive oil • 1 onion, chopped • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 3 carrots, sliced • 3 celery ribs, sliced • 2 chicken bouillon cubes • 1/2 tsp dried parsley • 1/4 tsp pepper • 4 cups chicken broth • 4 cups water • 1 1/4 lbs bone-in, skinless chicken thighs • 1 cup uncooked white rice • Salt, to taste
Directions 1. In a large pot over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 5 minutes. Add the carrots and celery, then sauté for 1 more minute. 2. Add the bouillon, parsley, pepper, chicken broth, and water. Stir, then add the chicken thighs. 3. Cover and simmer on medium-low for 30 minutes, then add the rice. Stir, cover, and simmer for 15 more minutes. 4. Remove the pot from the heat and transfer the chicken to a large bowl. Shred the meat and add it back to the soup. Discard the bones.
5. Stir, salt, and serve!
Inspired by RecipeTinEats.com
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5274 Scotts Valley Dr., #102 Scotts Valley, CA 95066 24/7 831-430-0616
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
Scotts Valley Office Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday–Friday
www.VisitingAngels.com/CentralCoast Home Care Organization #444700002
Inside
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Thank You, Caregivers
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Why Socialization Is Important for Seniors
Returning to Learning
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It’s Self-Improvement Month!
No-Fuss Chicken and Rice Soup
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Giving Back to Your Local Charities
Sept. 2 is National Food Bank Day. Although this holiday is early in the month, donating unwanted items to others in need is something we should all do regularly. Here are three food banks and donation centers where you and your loved ones can help. Give Back to Your Community 3 Food Banks and Donation Centers Near You
Nueva Vista Community Resources 133 Leibrandt Ave. CommunityBridges.org/NVCR Formerly known as the Beach Flats Community & Familia Center, this resource center’s mission is to deliver essential services and provide equal access for these services to everyone in the community. It partnered with Second Harvest Food Bank to provide the community with free groceries and nutritional awareness. On top of that, it also hosts parents’ education courses, after-school homework clubs for students, summer activities, and resources for senior citizens. To learn more about how you can donate or volunteer, check out the website.
Grey Bears 2710 Chanticleer Ave. GreyBears.org
Second Harvest Food Bank 800 Ohlone Parkway TheFoodBank.org
Since 1973, Grey Bears Healthy Food Program has delivered 110 million pounds of food to Santa Cruz county seniors, veterans, families, and farm workers. Their food program allows people to receive a free bag of groceries each week. Free service is available for anyone in financial hardship — no one is turned away. They even have a thrift store where you can shop or donate household items, shoes, clothes, and electronics. Grey Bears accepts donations in the form of food, money, volunteering, recycling, clothing, and more. Go to the website to learn how you can help.
Second Harvest Food Bank in Santa Cruz County is the first food bank in California and the second oldest in the nation. They source over 11 million pounds of food each year and distribute it to 150 food pantries, schools, soup kitchens, group homes, youth centers, and more. They strive to support their communities in Santa Cruz County in any way they can. Every month, they assist at least 85,000 residents with food so they don’t have to go hungry. More information can be found on the website if you want to donate or get involved.
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