Why Making a Move to Harrogate Is As Easy as 1, 2, 3

Do you like the idea of a maintenance-free, carefree lifestyle that allows you to do all the things you want … but feel a little overwhelmed when you think about all you’d have to do to make that move happen?

Fear not, says Charles Benjamin, Executive Director of Harrogate, a premier active senior living community just minutes from Toms River and the Monmouth/Ocean County beaches. Making the move to a more enriching lifestyle is easier than you think.

“Making a move to Harrogate is as easy as one, two, three,” he says. “Our 52-acre Life Care Community is designed to tap into your new and rekindled interests, let go of worries and embrace a more fulfilling, experience-rich life. We like to make the move easy, too, so we’re ready and willing to create an incentive package that works for you.”

Charles says that although moving from a private home into a retirement community might seem like a large ordeal, it doesn’t have to be. “We want this stage of your life to truly be the time of your life, so we want to make the transition as smooth and easy as possible,” he explains. “We say that there are three distinct steps that go into moving to senior living. Breaking the process down to three steps makes it feel less daunting and a lot more manageable.”

  1. Research your options.

The first step to moving into a senior living community means finding the right one first. But before you even start looking for locations, sit down and take stock of your retirement and what you want it to look, sound and feel like. For example, what do you want to accomplish next year? In 5 years? 10 years? Even though plans can and do change, it’s always good to have guidelines that will help you narrow your focus and look for locations that will really enrich your life. For example, do you want to spend a lot of time traveling? Learning a new skill? Visiting friends and family?

Next, it’s time to start thinking about what you need to have and what you want to have in a community. Think of it a little like buying a house: you have your wants and needs, which can help you better find and rate different options for yourself and your lifestyle. If being in nature is important to you, for example, you might want to look for locations that are located near (or on) preserves and other gorgeous natural landscapes so you can enjoy the great outdoors without having to travel far away from home.

Then, once you’ve determined what you want your retirement to be, it’s time to start looking at different retirement community options that meet what you’re looking for. A good place to begin searching is on Google. You’ll find plenty of information, including official websites, that will give you a picture of what is available in your desired location. Be sure to read independent reviews and ask friends and family for their information or experiences. Using all the information available to you, you should be able to narrow down your list to two or three communities that meet your desires.

  1. Choose your community.

The best way to see if a community is right for you is by actually visiting it in person. Schedule a tour with each of the “made the grade” communities that are on your list so you can get a firsthand look at everything the place has to offer. Much like you would when looking for a new house, it’s good to have a long list of standard questions that you ask each community when you go and visit. Gathering the same information will help you better compare and contrast when it’s time to choose. The questions you ask can be literally endless, but some examples of things you might want to find out include:

  • What levels of care do you have available at your community?
  • What services are included in the monthly fee? What are not?
  • What activities and events are available on a regular basis?
  • What’s the dining experience like?
  • What is the financial solvency and history of the community?

It’s also good to have a standardized checklist that allows you to rate the community on various things such as appearance, resident health and happiness, amenities, friendliness of staff and so on and so forth. These are the intangibles that you can’t see or feel from the computer screen. Be sure to spend a good amount of time at each community, preferably staying for a meal and activity. You’ll also want to meet some of the current residents and get their take on what life at the community is like. Finally, listen to your gut and what it’s telling you when you’re on site. Does it feel like a place where you could truly be “at home,” or is there something in the back of your mind that’s concerning you?

Finally, after you’ve toured each community on your list (preferably more than once), it’s time to make a decision. In a perfect world, you would know the exact right community for you the instant you walked on campus, but if that isn’t the case, that’s quite all right. Take your various lists and compare and contrast the different communities against each other. Be sure to think hard about if you can see yourself living there or not. Hopefully, you will have a clear winner by the time you’re done with your review, and then comes the fun part – contacting the community and signing a contract for this new stage of your life.

  1. Make the move.

You’ve made all the hard decisions; now comes the enjoyable part – actually moving and starting life in your new community. If you’re currently living in a private home, you’ll probably need to pack up your belongings and get the house ready to sell. Downsizing and decluttering can be a big project, so you may want to enlist the help of an agency that specializes in helping older adults transition from a private home to a retirement community. They can not only help you go through your personal items, but they can also help coordinate moving companies, real estate companies and everything else that is necessary to get you on your way to your new home.

Be sure to get a floor plan of your new space so that you can more easily figure out what items of yours you can keep and what will go (as well as what you might want to buy new to fit into a smaller area). Remember that even though your private living space may be smaller than what you currently have, you’ve actually gained all the space and benefits that the community has to offer.

Finally, once the house is sold and the moving van is packed up, it’s time to move into your new community. The community you choose will be more than happy to help coordinate everything to get you safely and easily into your new home. Once you’re there, you can take a deep breath, relax and start unpacking. You’ve done it – you’ve moved into your new home, and now it’s time to look around and discover everything that awaits you.

This Is What “Worry Less, Live More” Looks Like

Located near Toms River, New Jersey, Harrogate offers a worry-free, fulfilling and experience-rich life. Here, you’ll be free of the hassles of homeownership while having access to all of the best that life has to offer. From opportunities to engage, enrich and challenge yourself to the peace of mind of future care, socialization and so much more.

No matter what your needs may be, we can meet them, ensuring you are worry-free for years to come. With our Life Care, you can enjoy independent living, home health care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation for one entrance fee and a monthly fee that covers everything our lifestyle has to offer.

Worry Less and Live More at Harrogate!

Call for information at ​866-606-0178 or visit our website.

How Short-Term Rehabilitation Puts You on the Path to Recovery

Following an accident, illness or injury, most people need time to recover fully. This is especially true for older adults who recover more slowly from significant incidents. Years ago, hospitals were set up so that these individuals could stay as long as they needed in order to recover enough to go home. Today, seniors and their loved ones have a different option in order to get back to a normal level of function: short-term rehabilitation.

“Short-term rehabilitation is one of the best solutions for seniors who need extra help in order to return home safely following a hospital stay,” says Charles Benjamin, Executive Director of Harrogate, a premier active senior living community just minutes from Toms River and the Monmouth/Ocean County beaches. “It’s an excellent service that results in fewer rehospitalizations, lowers health care costs, fewer health complications after leaving the hospital and generally better outcomes for patients.”

Short-term rehabilitation at Harrogate combines therapies and rehabilitation services to help seniors regain their independence, getting them back to where they want to be. “Our goal is to quickly restore confidence and strength to return you to the things you love to do as soon as possible,” Charles says. “We’re proud that our average length of stay is five days fewer than the national average, meaning that our rehabilitation clients are able to return to their lives that much sooner.”

No two short-term rehabilitation centers are created equal, so if you’re looking into options for yourself or a loved one, here is some general information to help you make the right choice for your needs.

What is short-term rehabilitation?

Short-term rehabilitation (STR) is inpatient care that’s focused on healing and therapies that allow the individual to become well enough to go home or be discharged to outpatient care. Most short-term rehabilitation takes place in special clinics and facilities, which can be standalone, aligned with a medical center or located at a senior living community.

What sort of care needs would qualify me for short-term rehabilitation?

Because STR is a medical service that can be covered by medical insurance (such as Medicare or private insurance), it’s natural to know what sort of issues or care needs would be covered. Generally, a person who goes into STR is medically stable, but still needs supervised care around-the-clock in order to be safe. If you or a loved one were dealing with injuries from a car crash, wounds that are slow to heal, recovery following a big surgery or progressive illnesses are all conditions that could qualify you for short-term rehabilitation.

How long will I be in short-term rehabilitation?

The short answer is: as long as it takes for you to get well! The longer answer is that you will typically remain in short-term rehabilitation until your care team believes you’re healthy and well enough to be discharged back home. This can be anywhere from two weeks to a month or even more. It all depends on your individual care needs.

What questions should I ask to find the right short-term rehabilitation provider for me?

Since you or your loved one will be staying in short-term rehabilitation for some time, you want to make sure you chose a place that meets both your care needs. Here are some questions to ask to make sure you’re choosing a good facility for you.

  • Is the center licensed and certified? You’ll want a center that’s been licensed by your state and certified by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) – that way, you know you’re receiving the best possible care.
  • Does the center have the treatments and therapies you will need? Obviously, this is a very big requirement. You’ll want to make sure that the facility can actually treat the care needs that you have.
  • Is there a multidisciplinary team of licensed medical professionals on staff? This allows for a more holistic, whole-person approach to your care.
  • Is your insurance accepted? Even though insurance does cover most costs for short-term rehabilitation, there can be out-of-pocket costs, and you’ll want to manage your expenses accordingly.
  • Is the clinic near you and convenient for friends and family? Experts say that it’s a lot easier for people to heal when they’re surrounded by their loved ones. A convenient location makes it easier for family and friends to visit and support you in your recovery.

Short-Term Rehabilitation at Harrogate

Residents at Harrogate have priority access to our short-term rehabilitation care – and what could be better than recuperating in a place you already know as home? However, you don’t have to be a current Harrogate resident in order to use our rehabilitation services. We offer direct admittance, and we accept Medicare; all Medicare Advantage Plans, including HMOs, long-term care insurance, and private pay. We offer a wide variety of rehabilitation services and care specialties to ensure that you get back on your feet as soon as possible.

We provide comprehensive therapies up to seven days a week, including physical, occupational and speech therapies. Here are some of our specialties:

  • Cardiac rehabilitation: Improving outcomes with multifaceted, medically supervised care
  • Pulmonary rehabilitation: Boosting breathing and functioning to the highest level possible
  • Pain management: Reducing discomfort with compassionate continuous pain monitoring
  • Wound care: Reduced infection and improved healing with careful incision-site monitoring
  • IV therapy: Administering optimal care with the help of effective intravenous therapy
  • Palliative and hospice care: Maximizing quality of life through end-of-life care
  • Dermatology: Specialized treatment for skin, hair and nails
  • Respite care: Providing temporary care for a loved one and relief for caregivers
  • Podiatry: Providing essential foot care
  • Optometry: Monitoring and managing healthy vision and eye care
  • Fall prevention program
  • Post-acute therapy

Our 5-star CMS-rated facility (that’s the highest rating a short-term rehabilitation center can achieve) has board-certified physicians on site four days a week, and specialists on staff around the clock. We offer a very high staff-to-patient ratio, ensuring the very best care for you. Our rehabilitation services are offered seven days a week, and we work with each individual to develop personalized care plans that ensure optimal outcomes.

When you choose Harrogate for short-term rehabilitation, you’ll have the benefit of all our thoughtful services and amenities on our beautiful campus. Our restaurant-style dining will delight as well as nourish your tastebuds, and you’ll enjoy a full calendar of events and activities to make your days exciting and fun. At Harrogate, you’ll find everything you need to get you on the road to recovery swiftly, efficiently and successfully.

This Is What “Worry Less, Live More” Looks Like

Located near Toms River, New Jersey, Harrogate offers a worry-free, fulfilling and experience-rich life. Here, you’ll be free of the hassles of homeownership while having access to all of the best that life has to offer. From opportunities to engage, enrich and challenge yourself to the peace of mind of future care, socialization and so much more.

No matter what your needs may be, we can meet them, ensuring you are worry-free for years to come. With our Life Care, you can enjoy independent living, home health care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation for one entrance fee and a monthly fee that covers everything our lifestyle has to offer.

Worry Less and Live More at Harrogate!

Call for information at ​866-606-0178 or visit our website.

The Journey to Senior Living: A Step- by-Step Guide for Seniors and Families

Are you or a loved one thinking that senior living may be right for you? These days, moving into senior living isn’t the stigma it used to be. Instead, senior living is filled with vibrant opportunities, numerous choices and lifestyles that have younger folks wishing they could move in right now. However, narrowing down the options and taking the steps can be overwhelming, especially at the very beginning.

“As with any big life decision, starting out on the journey can be daunting, but it’s important to remember that you just need to begin with a single step,” says Charles Benjamin, Executive Director of Harrogate, a premier active senior living community just minutes from Toms River and the Monmouth/Ocean county beaches. “We’ve put together a step-by-step guide to help seniors and their family members understand the process while taking some of the uncertainty away.”

Charles says that it may help to think about senior living like choosing a college, or picking a new house. “A lot of the principles are the same,” he says. “Just remember to do your research, consider your options and make a decision that feels good to you. And of course, remember to have fun. This can be a very exciting time for you.”

Step 1: Decide if it’s time for senior living.

The first step in the process is deciding whether the time is right to move to senior living. While there is no right or wrong answer, here are some questions to ask yourself or your loved one in order to help make that decision.

  • Are you able to do all the things you want to do with no or minimal help?
  • Can you handle personal care tasks on your own, or is it becoming too difficult?
  • Are you able to manage your medications correctly?
  • Are you remaining social and active, or have you become more isolated?
  • Are you tired of dealing with all the chores and tasks that come with owning a house?
  • Are you feeling increasingly lonely or bored?
  • Are you having accidents at home, such as falling or other issues?
  • Do you have hobbies and activities that you enjoy, and are you able to engage with them?

Depending on the answers to those questions, you may decide that senior living is right for you or your loved one.

Step 2: Do your research.

Depending on where you live, you may have a large number of CCRCs to choose from. This can be good or bad, depending on your ability to narrow down exactly what you want. That’s why it’s important to do your homework and understand exactly what you’re looking for so that you can find a community that meets and exceeds everything you want and need.

A great place to start is with our comprehensive guide to CCRCs, where you’ll learn basic information of what’s available to you. Here are some other things to do during your research phase of the journey:

  • Decide on the care level you will need, whether that’s independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing or memory care. Many communities have a variety of different care levels on the same campus.
  • Figure out the price point that works for you. Depending on your finances and benefits coming your way, you may decide that one location will work better for you than another.
  • Come up with a list of the top four or five choices. It does no good to set up tours with many different communities. Having fewer choices can make the decision easier – and, of course, if you don’t like any of the ones you see at first, you can always expand your search.

Step 3: Tour your choices.

The next step in the process is to contact the communities on your list and set up tours. Even though you can get a lot of information online, there’s no substitute for actually going into the community and experiencing the atmosphere, looking at the rooms, tasting the food and interacting with staff and residents. As you know from buying a house, a place that looks great in pictures may have a lot of issues that you won’t see until you step foot inside. Here are a few ways to help make the most of your tours and get the information you need to make the right choice:

  • Ask questions. It can help to have a standardized list of questions (such as the one you’ll find here) that you can take with you to every community you tour.
  • Consider doing more than one tour at each community that you’re seriously considering. We recommend going back at different times of the day. Another option would be to book a short-term stay at the community to get a real feel for what it’s like.
  • Ask if you can meet several of the residents and spend a good amount of time with them. A good community will have “brand champions” who love the community and will gladly answer all your questions.

Step 4: Select your option.

After you’ve toured all your options, it’s time to make a choice. This can be a long process, and a stressful one. However, if you’ve done your research and listen to your gut, your instincts won’t steer you wrong.

Step 5: Get ready to move.

You’ve made your choice – congratulations! You’ve taken the first step towards your new chapter of life. The article “7 Steps to Finding the Perfect Senior Living Community” lists some points for getting ready to move that you may wish to follow, depending on your circumstances:

  • Meet with an Elder Law Attorney to prepare the appropriate documents. These are attorneys that specialize in the legal requirements of aging and/or the preparation of documents useful for end-of-life care.
  • Sell or leverage your home. If there is currently home or property ownership, that equity can be used to help with care expenses.
  • Get help with the move. While you can definitely downsize, declutter and get rid of items yourself, you may wish to consider hiring a professional team that specializes in moving seniors from a home into a community.
  • Apply for and receive Veteran’s benefits. If you or your loved one served in the military, or if you, or they, were married to someone who did, speak to a Veteran’s benefit consultant to see what financial programs you may be eligible for.

Step 6: Enjoy your new home.

You’ve done your research, planned your move and finally you’ve done it – you’ve moved into your new senior living community. Take a deep breath, because now it’s time to do the best thing of all … make the new community your new home. Many senior living communities will have orientation for new members to help them get acquainted with all the services and amenities available for them. You may also wish to ask staff members if they can connect you with other residents whom you might enjoy meeting. Remember, everyone at the community was new once, too. Sooner than you think, you’ll start thinking of senior living not just as “the community,” but as “home.”

5-Star Skilled Nursing Care in Lakewood, New Jersey

 As a Life Care Community, Harrogate provides residents with access to long-term and short-term health care services on our campus – meaning our residents never have to leave their home to receive the care they require. Our Health Center offers both private and semi-private suites, as well as comfortable common spaces where residents can mingle with one another as well as staff. Personalized care plans are developed in tandem with residents’ needs and preferences.

“Our community has a reputation for delivering high-quality skilled nursing care in a homelike environment,” says Charles. “Our team of specialists is trained to handle every aspect of skilled nursing, from comprehensive wound care to individualized programs for specific health needs. We’re among a select few retirement communities in Ocean County, New Jersey, to earn a 5-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.”

This Is What “Worry Less, Live More” Looks Like

Located near Toms River, New Jersey, Harrogate offers a worry-free, fulfilling and experience-rich life. Here, you’ll be free of the hassles of homeownership while having access to all of the best that life has to offer. From opportunities to engage, enrich and challenge yourself to the peace of mind of future care, socialization and so much more.

No matter what your needs may be, we can meet them, ensuring you are worry-free for years to come. With our Life Care, you can enjoy independent living, home health care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation for one entrance fee and a monthly fee that covers everything our lifestyle has to offer.

Worry Less and Live More at Harrogate!

Call for information at ​866-606-0178 or visit our website.

Senior Living Success: Telling the Kids About Your Move

One thing we can probably agree on is that we’re all glad to see 2020 in our rearview mirror. Many senior adults, after closing the chapter on the past year, are now looking to 2021 and considering what the new year has in store for them. For many, making the move to a senior living community like ours makes complete sense, says Charles Benjamin, Executive Director of Harrogate, a premier active senior living community just minutes from Toms River and the Monmouth/Ocean County beaches.

“The threat of COVID-19 has caused many older adults to reconsider their living arrangements,” Charles says. “Surprisingly for many, a senior living community like Harrogate is actually the safest place for them to enjoy their days while also social distancing. Thanks to rigorous safety standards put in place, a senior living community is often much safer than living independently in a family home.”

While this may seem counter intuitive, Charles says that moving to an enclosed community provides older adults a sense of freedom while also bringing peace of mind for the future. “Your risks are much lower and the safety standards are much higher, making it the perfect place for older, at-risk adults to spend their retirement,” he says. “However, at some point you have to do something that may be difficult: telling your kids about your decision.”

Charles says that adult children can have a huge range of emotions when it comes to hearing their parents are moving to retirement living. They may be thrilled and completely supportive. On the other hand, they may be resentful, stubborn or simply believe that you are making the wrong choice. What’s a senior adult to do?

Obviously, you want to make sure you ease your kids’ minds during the transition, while also asserting your independence and preferences. Here are some tips for helping share the news with your kids, easing their concerns, addressing any questions they may have and getting them excited about this new journey that lies ahead.

Focus on the benefits.

It’s always best to lead with the positives and benefits as you’re announcing a new life change. This will help make the situation a lot more palatable to your loved ones, and can also help cut off any complaints before they begin. “Many adult children may assume that their parents would prefer to stay at home or live with them instead of moving into a community, and this change could be very discombobulating to them,” says Charles. “They may be resentful at the loss of their family home, or they could be worried that you won’t receive the appropriate level of care and assistance.”

Take some time to learn about the community you’re moving to and present the information to your kids in an optimistic, positive manner. Let them know that your desire to live elsewhere isn’t a personal slight – you’re making the right decision for you based on your personal experiences and knowledge. Be open about your choices and why you’ve decided to move. Whatever your reasons are, let your children know that you’re doing this to improve your quality of life – not to punish anyone or step away from everything you love.

Be prepared to answer a lot of questions.

Your children will probably have many questions upon your announcement. These can range from financial to personal to everything in between. You will need to prep beforehand and decide what you want your kids to know – and what they don’t need to know. After all, if you’re making this decision for yourself, you’re simply informing them of the change – you don’t need to justify yourself or get their permission.

It may be helpful to have some brochures from your community on hand so you can easily share information and get your children additional information. You may also wish to schedule a tour of the community with your kids so they can see firsthand where you’re going and also meet the staff and other key members of the community. Having plenty of information can help answer your kids’ questions and put them at ease about your decision.

Reassure them that you’re doing this to help continue – not stifle – your independence.

Surprisingly, there are still many misconceptions about senior living out there. One of the biggest is that moving to senior living robs older adults of all their independence. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, moving to senior living can actually increase your independence and improve your quality of life for longer than you would be able to live at home.

Having information about the community you’re moving to can help reassure your children about your decision. If they see that you’re doing this to benefit your life and even take responsibilities off their shoulders, they may be more amenable to the situation and eventually become as excited as you about this new chapter of life.

Ask them for their input and help.

While moving away from a home you know and love can be sad, it can also be an opportunity for you to share an experience with your children – and get their input. Ask your children for their help so they can be an integral part of this next phase of life. This is a great opportunity for your family to go through your home, look through personal items and share stories about the history you’ve experienced in the family home. While this can be bittersweet, it can also forge priceless memories. Take your time as you go through the house and pare through your belongings. You may be surprised at what items hold particular meaning to your children. Don’t forget that this is a perfect time to pass along heirlooms and other family pieces – not only will they get those items out of your hands, but you’ll also be able to see your kids and relatives enjoying them during your lifetime.

“The biggest thing you can do to get your adult children excited about your move is to involve them in the process,” says Charles. “By positioning this as an exciting, invigorating time, they’ll be more likely to get excited about the move – and, by extension, you will too. Although there may be bumps in the road and you may experience some skepticism, involving them in the process is one of the best ways to reassure your adult children and share your enthusiasm with them.”

This Is What “Worry Less, Live More” Looks Like

Located near Toms River, New Jersey, Harrogate offers a fulfilling and experience-rich life. Here, you’ll be free of the hassles of homeownership while having access to all of the best that life has to offer – from opportunities to engage, enrich and challenge yourself to the peace of mind of future care, socialization and so much more.

No matter what your needs may be, we can meet them, ensuring you are worry-free for years to come. With our Life Care, you can enjoy independent living, home health care, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, memory support and more for one entrance fee and a monthly fee that covers everything our lifestyle has to offer.

Worry Less and Live More at Harrogate!

Call for information at ​866-606-0178 or visit our website.

Caregiving and the Holidays: When Visiting Mom and Dad Raises Red Flags

Approximately 5 to 7 million Americans provide some assistance to senior loved ones who live at a distance. For these individuals, staying in touch happens through phone calls, reports from neighbors and infrequent visits throughout the year. Many times, a holiday visit may be the only chance an adult child may get to see their senior parent.

“The holidays are an opportune time for adult children to take stock of their aging loved ones’ health and condition to make sure they’re doing okay at home – or not,” says Charles Benjamin, Executive Director of Harrogate, a premier active senior living community just minutes from Toms River and the Monmouth/Ocean County beaches. “However, this may be more complicated this year due to COVID-19 and family gatherings being canceled or severely limited.”

It’s more important than ever, says Charles, to understand what red flags to look for that may indicate your parents are having difficulty. “Even if you’re not able to physically be there, you can connect with a neighbor or nearby family member who can be your point person to look for any disturbing signs,” he says.

Here are some of the biggest warning signs you or a representative should look for.

Sudden or significant weight loss.

Does your loved one look significantly thinner than they did the last time you saw them? This can be one of the biggest signs of poor health. On a medical level, weight loss could signify a serious problem like cancer, depression or dementia. It could also indicate that your loved one doesn’t have the energy or the ability to prepare and eat nutritious meals. It’s also possible that your loved one’s tastes have changed due to the aging process or certain medications they might be taking. No matter what the reason, a marked weight loss should have you connecting with your senior loved one’s physician to get to the root of the problem.

Difficulty getting around.

Is your once active mother suddenly hesitant to take her nightly walk? Is your agile father having difficulty going up the stairs? Sudden difficulties with mobility and performing regular tasks can indicate a sign of joint issues or neurological problems. Unfortunately, as we get older, our strength can naturally decline and we can become unsteady on our feet. The less active we are, the more our abilities continue to deteriorate, and the greater the risk of balance issues, mobility issues and falling. The CDC reports that more than one out of four older people falls each year, but less than half tell their doctor. Fall-related injuries are the number one reason seniors are admitted into the emergency room. If you notice your loved one is having a hard time maneuvering and performing regular tasks, make an appointment with their physician for a full check-up and a discussion of options for keeping your loved one safe, mobile and secure.

A less-than-kept-up home.

The state of your loved one’s home can speak volumes to their safety level. If the yard is a little unkempt and a little less tidy than usual, no worries – those are easily handled issues. But if you notice expired food in the fridge, overflowing garbage, filthy surroundings and dangerously unkempt conditions, that’s something you need to get to the bottom of. Other telltale signs of seniors needing assistance are unopened bills piling up or excess clutter. This is where having an extra set of boots on the ground can be beneficial for family members who live far away. Be sure to look for subtle signs of issues as well. Scorched kitchen countertops or pans can indicate that your loved one is forgetting about food left on the stove. Piles of dirty clothes can indicate an inability to do the laundry. The best resource you have is your gut: if you feel like something is wrong, it’s a good idea to check it out.

Changing moods or behavior.

It’s common to forget someone’s name every once in a while, or mess up dates from years ago. It’s less common for your cheerful, perky mom to suddenly become snappy and angry, or for your whip-smart father to suddenly become disoriented and confused. These changes don’t necessarily mean something as significant as cognitive decline, but they could indicate physical issues like dehydration, urinary tract infections, medication side effects or other underlying problems. Even if the issue is ultimately dementia or another form of cognitive decline, it’s best to know as soon as possible what’s going on. The earlier a medical professional can gauge what’s wrong, the better the outcomes and treatments can be. The last thing you want is to wait until an accident or unfortunate event forces you and your family to figure out what’s going on.

Worry less, live more at Harrogate.

“Realizing that your parents need help, and then talking to them about that need, is not easy,” says Charles. “As a longtime trusted senior living resource for thousands of older adults and their families, Harrogate uniquely understands the emotions, feelings and decisions you’re going through, and we’re here to help however we can.”

Charles says that many families have chosen a community like Harrogate for their loved one because of the many benefits communities provide to help seniors live happier, healthier and for longer. “Isolation, inactivity and poor nutrition are all huge factors that accelerate the aging process,” Charles says. “In a community setting like Harrogate, the focus is on whole-person wellness and providing the caring, dignified assistance needed to help older adults live full, healthy lives.”

Everything from our focus on fitness to dining excellence and personalized amenities are all designed to help older adults live better – and to provide family members peace of mind. “This is especially true during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Charles says. “Our continued focus is on the health and safety of our residents, and we have stringent protocols in place to maintain our status as a coronavirus-free community.”

This Is What “Worry Less, Live More” Looks Like

Located near Toms River, New Jersey, Harrogate offers a worry-free, fulfilling and experience-rich life. Here, you’ll be free of the hassles of homeownership while having access to all of the best that life has to offer – from opportunities to engage, enrich and challenge yourself to the peace of mind of future care, socialization and so much more.

No matter what your needs may be, we can meet them, ensuring you are worry-free for years to come. With our Life Care, you can enjoy independent living, home health, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, memory support and more for one entrance fee and a monthly fee that covers everything our lifestyle has to offer.

Worry Less and Live More at Harrogate!

Call for information at ​866-606-0178 or visit our website.

Senior Living 101: Your Guide to Housing Options

When it comes time to choose a senior living option – when you decide you’d like to let go of your worries and embrace a more fulfilling, experience-rich life – you may find yourself wondering what is best for you. It all depends on what you’re looking for and expecting from your retirement, says Charles Benjamin, Executive Director of Harrogate, Ocean County, New Jersey’s premier active senior living community and located just minutes from Toms River and the Monmouth/Ocean County beaches.

“Older adults may find that moving into senior living sooner rather than later brings innumerable benefits,” says Charles. “For example, Harrogate is a Life Care Community, meaning that we provide every level of service on-site at our community. If you’re looking for a place that can be your forever home, where you will always have peace of mind that you’ll experience the highest-quality care no matter what you might need, a Life Care Community may be the right choice. However, if you’d prefer more flexibility and are willing to move to a different location if your needs change, you might want another form of senior living.”

Charles says that while there are plenty of options out there, such as age-restricted communities or communities that only provide one or two services on-site, they come with their own downsides. “We like to put it this way: if you do need a higher level of care, do you really want to move again when you’re older and have less mobility? Or would you prefer to remain at a place that you know and love, so you don’t have to leave your friends and community?”

”Harrogate is the only senior community in the Lakewood, New Jersey area to offer Life Care, meaning that we can be your home for life. If you ever need it, you’ll have our in-home health services delivered to you right in your home. You also have priority access – for life – to our skilled nursing care, rehabilitation services and memory support, all available on-site at our Health Center.”

For Active Seniors: Independent Living

Independent living is exactly like it sounds – a lifestyle where all the chores and details are handled while you enjoy the life that you want. Active and independent seniors can say goodbye to home maintenance, chores and even cooking and cleaning, because it’s all taken care of.

“At Harrogate, we offer residents freedom,” says Charles. “Our 52-acre community provides so many opportunities for you to tap into new and rekindled interests and live the best life possible. It’s like living at a full-service resort!”

Independent living housing can vary from cottage homes to studio apartments. Harrogate offers a variety of floor plans to fit our residents’ lifestyle and budget. Every home is outfitted in style, with a full-scale kitchen, spacious bathrooms and gorgeous views … plus a built-in neighborhood of friends just outside your door. Independent living means enjoying plentiful services and amenities, fine dining every day and so many options to spend your time as you wish.

Care That Comes to You: Home Health Care

Home health care is Harrogate’s version of assisted living. Unlike other communities, where independent living residents usually have to move into an assisted living apartment when they require a certain level of care, our residents have the benefit of receiving in-home care right in their Harrogate residence. Residents continue to enjoy all the activities, amenities and perks of their community. Best of all, you don’t have to move – you can stay in the same apartment that you’ve come to call home.

Home health care provides a wide range of services, including assistance with the tasks of daily living, medication management, mobility assistance and even dementia and Alzheimer’s care. This allows us to help our residents who have cognitive issues to remain “at home” for as long as possible.

Compassionate Care: Skilled Nursing

For individuals who need a higher level of skilled care than home care can provide, Harrogate can help. We have a reputation for delivering high-quality skilled nursing care in a homelike environment. Our team of specialists can handle everything from comprehensive wound care to creative individualized programs for cardiac and pulmonary conditions.

Our skilled nursing center offers both private and semi-private suites, as well as common spaces where you can mingle with others who are enjoying our services. Skilled nursing residents also enjoy similar benefits to our other residents, such as services and activities and excellent dining options.

Getting You Back on Your Feet: Rehabilitation

Following a surgery, illness, or accident, you want to get back on your feet (and back to home) as soon as possible. That’s where our supportive rehabilitation professionals can help you regain your independence. Housed in our Health Care Center, we provide a variety of therapies and services that allow you to return you to the things you love to do as soon as possible. Unlike our other levels of care, we offer direct admittance for rehabilitation, meaning you or your loved one doesn’t have to be a current Harrogate resident to use our services.

“We hear from so many of our residents that they wish they had moved to Harrogate sooner,” says Charles. “That’s the highest compliment we can receive. We’re proud that our community offers so many opportunities to engage, enrich and challenge yourself. It simply makes sense to come while you’re still active and independent so you can fully enjoy everything we have to offer.”

This Is What “Worry Less, Live More” Looks Like

Located near Toms River, New Jersey, Harrogate offers a worry-free, fulfilling and experience-rich life. Here, you’ll be free of the hassles of homeownership while having access to all of the best that life has to offer. From opportunities to engage, enrich and challenge yourself to the peace of mind of future care, socialization and so much more.

No matter what your needs may be, we can meet them, ensuring you are worry-free for years to come. With our Life Care, you can enjoy independent living, home health, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, memory support and more for one entrance fee and a monthly fee that covers everything our lifestyle has to offer.

Worry Less and Live More at Harrogate!

Call for information at ​866-606-0178 or visit our website.

6 Ways Laughter Benefits Aging and Wellness

We all know that sharing a laugh with others is a great way to boost your mood, improve your day and make things seem generally sunnier. But did you know that laughter can also improve your overall health – and help you age well, too?

“For older adults, laughter truly is the best medicine,” says Charles Benjamin, Executive Director of Harrogate, Ocean County, New Jersey’s premier active senior living community. “As we age, we naturally become more susceptible to health ailments, and it’s more important than ever for us to care for our minds, bodies and souls in order to live the best possible lives.”

Charles says that it’s never too late to start on a path to healthy aging. “Our goal at Harrogate is to help our residents age happier and live healthier, which is the foundation of our Living the 8 program,” he says. “We’ve developed a program that brings together eight dimensions of wellness to help seniors live a happier, well-balanced life. It should be no surprise, then, that laughter is a huge part of that program!”

What are the ways that laughter can benefit wellness, particularly for seniors? Research has found six distinct benefits that can have us feeling better, aging better and living better all the way into our golden years. And that’s definitely something to laugh about.

  1. Improved cardiovascular health.
    Laughter is good for the heart, both figuratively and literally. Laughter has been proven to increase blood vessel function by reducing blood pressure and cholesterol. This is caused by a boost of circulation – our hearts pump a little more efficiently when we laugh – and increased blood oxygenation as we draw air into our bodies for those deep belly laughs and gleeful giggles. This leads to improved cardiovascular health, which lessens the risk of developing heart diseases and other issues – the leading cause of death in America today.
  2. Pain reduction.
    Laughter instantly triggers a reaction in our brains that provides an anesthesia-like effect for hours after the joke has passed. Endorphins are released when we guffaw, which are hormones that help regulate pain in our bodies. Cortisol also drops, which reduces pain and inflammation throughout the body. In addition, laughter can increase levels of endorphins, which help regulate pain in the body.
  3. Stress reduction.
    Stress wreaks havoc on our bodies, reducing the efficiency of our immune system, increasing our levels of anxiety and depression, impacting our sleep and eating habits and generally being a detriment to our overall health. Laughter is a great way to combat stress, as those chemical reactions that help reduce pain also help reduce stress, boost our moods and make things seem not so serious.
  4. Better core strength.
    Can you laugh your way to flatter abs? It’s possible. Laughter exercises the abdominal muscles and your diaphragm, and also instantly relaxes other muscles in your body that may need a break. Engaging your core helps strengthen your back muscles (which can help reduce back pain), increase overall strength and improve your breathing. That’s great news for seniors with asthma and bronchitis.
  5. Improved relationships.
    Besides the surprising physical benefits of laughter, it also brings us closer together. Some experts believe that the health benefits of laughter all stem from the improved social interaction and support that we receive from laughing together. No matter what language we speak, laughter is a common thread between us all. By laughing together, we bond with others and become more emotionally attuned to each other. Laughter is a great tool for improving the quality of interpersonal relationships – so much so, in fact, that some experts believe all the other health benefits flow from the improved social support laughter brings.
  6. Better mental health.
    Laughter improves our moods through various chemical releases and stress relief. This in turn promotes emotional well-being and a better sense of self-worth, which also creates a more stable mood and a more positive outlook. By laughing, we become more optimistic overall. Studies have shown that seniors (and other individuals) who have a sense of optimism also have a strong sense of resilience in the face of adversity, like job loss, financial issues, death and other major stressors.

Bringing More Laughter into Your Life
Since August is National Wellness Month, it’s the perfect time to inject some more humor and laughter into your life. There are always ways to find lightheartedness and happiness in any situation, as long as you open yourself up to the possibility. Here are some suggestions for how to get a good belly laugh each and every day.

  • Watch something funny. Whether that’s a silly cat video, a humorous gif or a favorite sitcom, something that tickles your funny bone will do just the trick.
  • Talk to someone every day. Even if you’re socially distanced, you can still pick up the phone and text or call a dear friend or family member. Ever noticed how laughter happens more naturally when you’re talking to someone?
  • Do something nice for yourself every day. When we care for ourselves, we’re more open to the possibility of humor and happiness. Pampering yourself – even if it’s as simple as drinking a cup of coffee outside or reading a chapter of a favorite book – will put you in a better frame of mind and make you more open to the humor and happiness around you.

This Is What “Worry Less, Live More” Looks Like

Located near Toms River, New Jersey, Harrogate offers a worry-free, fulfilling and experience-rich life. Here, you’ll be free of the hassles of homeownership while having access to all of the best that life has to offer. From opportunities to engage, enrich and challenge yourself to the peace of mind of future care, socialization and so much more.

No matter what your needs may be, we can meet them, ensuring you are worry-free for years to come. With our Life Care, you can enjoy independent living, home health, skilled nursing, rehabilitation and more for one entrance fee and a monthly fee that covers everything our lifestyle has to offer.

Worry Less and Live More at Harrogate!

Call for information at ​866-606-0178 or visit our website.

Living the 8 – Your Guide to Healthy Harrogate Living

When you put together your “wellness plan” or your “live right list,” what’s on it? Eating right? Getting enough exercise? Staying happy? If so, you’re on the right track, says Charles Benjamin, Executive Director of Harrogate, Ocean County, New Jersey’s premier active senior living community.

 

“Eating a healthy diet, staying physically fit and taking care of your mental health are all important when it comes to overall wellness, but those are only a few pieces of the puzzle,” he says. “There are eight dimensions of wellness that encompass total, overall health, and each of them play an essential role in helping seniors – and everyone else – live their best lives possible.”

 

A MacArthur Foundation Study found that only 30% of how we age is determined by our genetics. A whopping 70% of how we age is determined by our lifestyle. That’s good news for Harrogate’s seniors, who experience an amazing lifestyle the minute they step foot onto the 52-acre campus.

 

“Living the 8 is our proprietary program designed to help seniors age happier and healthier,” says Charles.” It goes beyond the physical aspect of wellness to enrich your days and help you live a happier, well-balanced life. When you come to Harrogate, you know you’re coming here to enjoy life.”

 

What are the eight dimensions of wellness? At Harrogate, we focus on emotional, intellectual, spiritual, physical, health services, environmental, vocational and social wellness.

 

  1. Emotional: An even keel through life’s ups and downs

Emotional wellness is defined as the ability to cope with the situations life presents you, as well as the ability to build rich, satisfying relationships with those important to you. If you have strong emotional wellness, you’re more confident, feel more in control of your life (and your feelings) and are able to handle life’s changes with grace and flexibility. It builds an optimistic outlook, which is great – because studies show that people who are optimistic are more likely to live longer.

 

  1. Intellectual: Staying sharp and engaged

In a 2017 study published in The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, it’s suggested that acquiring skills in our senior years can help reduce or delay cognitive decline. That’s the basis of intellectual wellness, which revolves around finding ways to be creative, seeking out new information and knowledge and continually developing your skills. It’s important to find activities that are interesting to you and get your brain cells firing. Reading, doing crossword puzzles, learning a new language or trying out a new hobby are all excellent ways to improve and maintain your intellectual wellness.

 

  1. Spiritual: Finding meaning in each day

Spiritual wellness involves finding a “higher purpose” in life, and aligning your beliefs and values with what matters to you. This doesn’t necessarily have to be religious – spiritual wellness can be fulfilled by volunteering, meditation, self-reflection or spending time in nature. By focusing on spiritual wellness, individuals have a sense of inner peace, a clear understanding of their values and a self-confidence that’s unmatched. People with healthy spiritual wellness also have a curiosity and optimistic view of the world – which, again, is something that helps us age well.

 

  1. Physical: A lean, mean moving machine

Physical wellness means eating right, staying in shape and getting enough sleep. Just doing these things will put you on the right path to whole body wellness. Experts say that senior adults should get at least 2.5 hours of moderate aerobic exercise every week. That translates to 30 minutes a day – totally manageable, right? Exercise can include a brisk walk, yoga, bike riding or even gardening. Pair that with a Mediterranean-style diet, avoiding too much alcohol and fatty foods and getting 7-8 hours of sleep per night, and you’re set with this level of wellness.

 

  1. Health Services: A proactive approach to health and disease prevention

This aspect of “wellness” is unique to Harrogate and makes up a key component of our “Living the 8.” We help seniors thrive through a combination of expert health care services and person-centered hospitality and attention, and a robust activities calendar. We provide health services so our residents can have their needs and wants met – everything from independent living, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and home health services.

 

  1. Environmental: Promoting a healthy personal atmosphere

This dimension of health is linked to your surroundings and the space you occupy – both your living situation and your community at large. When your environment is healthy, you feel better. That’s why Harrogate focuses on providing a community that has a happy, supportive, welcoming feel. We also encourage our residents to get involved in the community in many ways so they can truly feel a part of life here.

 

  1. Vocational: Sharing your talents, skills and life experience

It feels good to give back to our community, as well as find your purpose sharing your talents. Vocational wellness involves finding meaningful work – whether paid or volunteer – that allows you to share your interest, skills and values. This can translate into a new career or it can be something less formal, like tutoring neighborhood children.

 

  1. Social: Building healthy relationships and minimizing isolation

43 percent of seniors say they feel lonely on a regular basis. Loneliness isn’t just sad – it’s bad for your health, increasing your risk of dementia, heart disease and other issues. Moving to a community like Harrogate, on the other hand, provides an immediate sense of connectedness and belonging. Having people we care about and rely on feeds our souls, helps us feel happier and healthier and makes us better people overall.

 

“At Harrogate, our Living the 8 program provides our residents with a happier life, a more supported life, a life focused on wellness and themselves,” says Charles. “Harrogate offers so many opportunities to engage, enrich and challenge yourself and provide you with whole-body wellness, health and happiness.”

 

This is what “worry less, live more” looks like.

 

Let go of worries, and embrace a more fulfilling, experience-rich life – at Harrogate, Ocean County, New Jersey’s premier active senior living community, conveniently located between Toms River and Lakewood, New Jersey.

 

At Harrogate, you’ll have a newfound freedom to enjoy everything our 52-acre retirement community has to offer. You’ll have ample opportunity to tap into your new and rekindled interests for a better life. And your future health care worries — including skilled nursing and rehabilitation — will be buttoned up with the security of Life Care, a smart plan that covers your care and protects your nest egg.

 

Offering independent living, skilled nursing, in-home care, and rehabilitation services, residents at Harrogate enjoy all the perks of an independent living lifestyle minus the homeownership hassles. Perks like spacious, maintenance-free, newly renovated senior apartments with numerous options in a variety of floor plans. A built-in neighborhood of friends – most from the Toms River, Lakewood and Brick area – just outside your door. Plentiful services and amenities always at your fingertips. And day trips around Monmouth and Ocean County.

Community, security, purpose, all at one “worry less, live more” spot: Harrogate. Contact us today for a tour of our amazing community and see what makes us such a one-of-a-kind experience.

Sue Gallagher’s 16 Fun and Affordable Things to Do Around Ocean County

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If you’re Harrogate Community Life Services Director Sue Gallagher, you often get asked about interesting things to do, including when there’s a blog to be written about affordable senior-friendly activities in Lakewood, Toms River, and the surrounding Ocean County. Fortunately, Sue always has a long list of ideas. Here are her 16 suggestions:

Lakewood

  1. Strand Theater
    See live theater, enjoy a musical act or attend an educational talk at this historic Vaudeville-era theater in downtown Lakewood, New Jersey.
  2. Ocean County Park (Rockefeller Estate)
    This 323-acre park offers a wide variety of free activities, including tennis, pickleball, fishing, and even a driving range. There are also miles of biking and walking trails.
  3. Lakewood BlueClaws
    Watch the Phillies’ future stars at a BlueClaws minor league game. Seniors who are Silver Sluggers eat free on Thursdays, and the grandkids can run the bases after every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday home game.

Toms River

  1. Jay and Linda Grunin Center at Ocean County Community College
    Featuring acts from around the globe, venerated artists, hometown musicians and unique entertainers.
  2. Robert J. Novins Planetarium
    One of the largest and most active planetariums in New Jersey, they offer shows about the night sky, solar system and universe for audiences of all ages.
  3. Academy for Lifelong Learning
    Retired seniors receive a FREE membership to the Academy for Lifelong Learning, and enjoy discounts on campus activities as well as reduced course tuition.
  4. Ocean County Historical Society
    Focused on keeping the rich, proud history of Ocean County alive, it’s a great place to research your genealogy or review their wide range of local artifacts.
  5. River Lady
    Enjoy lunch or dinner on an 85-foot paddle wheel riverboat while cruising the Toms River and Barnegat Bay.
  6. Double Trouble Park
    Tour Double Trouble Village – a preserved company town, sawmill and cranberry sorting and packing house – built in the Pine Barrens.
  7. Farmers Market
    February – May: During the winter and early spring, the market is held indoors at The Downtown Shops @ 53 Main on the first Wednesday of every month. June – November: The Farmers Market moves outdoors and is held every Wednesday. See their website for specific dates and times.
  8. Cruisin’ Downtown – Second Wednesday June through September.
    Bring your pre-1993 car or motorcycle to show off, or check out the area’s vintage rides.

Downtown Festivals

Toms River, New Jersey, hosts a variety of festivals featuring local musicians, artists, food vendors, and activities and rides for the grandkids.

  1. Chili and Salsa Cook-Off – Third Saturday in May
  2. Summer in the Streets – Third Saturday in July
  3. Wooden Boat Festival – Third Saturday in July
  4. Harvest Arts Festival – Third Saturday in October
  5. Christmas Tree Lighting – First Friday in December

At Harrogate, socializing is a big part of Living the 8 – our program that brings together eight dimensions of wellness to help residents live happier, more balanced lives.

To see some of the interesting activities we have going on, check out our upcoming events.

Understanding your senior living options.

Kevin Fletcher, Director of Sales and Marketing at Harrogate, can explain all the pros and cons of your senior living options in the Toms River, Lakewood and Ocean County area. His team of Life Care Consultants have helped hundreds of seniors just like you find the best option to fit their lifestyle and budget.

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