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.

Moving Made Easy® Transitioning Your Life

Moving made easy? It’s not too good to be true. In fact, it can be smart, easy and – dare we say it – enjoyable.

“These may be unprecedented times, but that doesn’t mean that transitioning your life isn’t a smart move,” 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. “In fact, it’s one of the best moves you can make, and Harrogate can help make it easier for you thanks to our partnership with Moving Station.”

Charles says that it’s never too early or too late for seniors to begin transitioning to a more fulfilling, experience-rich life. “Even with COVID-19, this is still an excellent time to make a move,” he says. “This is especially true in fall, because moving now means you’re able to avoid another year dealing with home maintenance in winter. Instead, you can enjoy an easy season at our maintenance-free community.”

The State of the Real Estate Market

 It may seem surprising, but the real estate market is hot, hot, hot. While showings and home sales slowed at the beginning of the pandemic, they’ve made a significant rebound since then. Historically low interest rates are just one factor. Another is that “starter homes” (read: more affordable homes for young families or first-time home buyers) simply aren’t being built, making the inventory low as demand continues to rise.

In the New Jersey area, the housing market has been heating up in part due to the pandemic shutdown. People are moving from the large cities and settling in the suburbs, and as more and more companies improve their work-from-home policies, people are free to move and go where they want or need to go, whether that’s for a school system, to be close to family or simply be in a desirable area.

Preparing Your Home for Sale

Just because the real estate market is incredibly hot doesn’t mean that you can simply put a for sale sign in your yard and wait for the offers to roll in. That’s why it’s so important to hire a professional real estate agent to help show off your home in the very best light (and get you the best offer possible).

90 percent of home buyers begin their search online, so you want to make sure your listing looks as great as possible. Professional photos are a must, but also consider a virtual walk-through. Because of COVID-19, the majority of buyers will only schedule showings of homes they are seriously considering, and having a virtual walk-through will make it easier for them to literally see themselves in your home.

Consider current home trends as you and your real estate agent are staging your home for sale. These days, buyers are looking for houses with a home office space, so consider having a spare bedroom do double-duty. Finally, be sure to price your home correctly. Too high, and you won’t get any bites – too low, and you may not get the full value for your place. Again, a real estate professional will help you figure out the best way to stage, arrange and show your house in order to get the most eyes and most bids.

Getting Ready to Move

Before you put your home on the market, you’ll want to get ready for your move. Not only does this get you in the right mindset, but it also will help you purge and downsize your items (and clear out your house so it’s easier to stage). Here are a few tips from the experts:

  • Give yourself plenty of time to complete the process. No matter how long you think it may take, just know it will take even longer than that. Don’t try to get through everything in a weekend – or even a week. Several weeks and up to several months is a more realistic timeline.
  • Take time to reminisce. Going through your home is like going through tangible memories, and it’s inevitable that you will want to stop, go through things and reminisce about old times. That’s perfectly fine. Give yourself the time to do that and build it into your schedule.
  • Don’t start with a big room at the very beginning of this process. Start someplace that doesn’t have much emotional attachment, like the linen closet or the laundry room. This will get you into the groove and be less overwhelming. Plus, completing a smaller room will give you the momentum you need to keep going.
  • Get rid of rooms you won’t need. If you won’t be needing an office, third bedroom, den or other space, you can get rid of pretty much everything in them right now. Depending on what you have, you may want to hold a garage sale or take things to the consignment shop. Nextdoor and Facebook Marketplace are also great places to offload items.
  • Consider giving heirlooms and legacy gifts at this time. Are there items you want to leave to your children or grandchildren? Instead of waiting for them to read the will, give those pieces to them now if you won’t have space for them in your new place. This way, you’ll be able to see your descendants enjoying them.
  • Get rid of duplicate items. This is particularly true in the kitchen, where (if you’re like most of us) you have a preponderance of spatulas, spoons and silverware (just to name a few things). Consider your needs moving forward and purge accordingly.

“Moving is a big decision, but with foresight and planning, it can be an enjoyable one,” says Charles. “If you’re considering moving to a community like Harrogate, you can take advantage of our partnership with Moving Station as well as our experienced staff. We’ve helped many older adults transition into a worry-free and carefree lifestyle, and we look forward to doing the same for 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, 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.

5 Mental Health and Wellness Tips for Seniors

Mental health plays such an important part in our overall wellness. If we have a positive outlook, an optimistic approach to life and a feeling of stability, we feel better and our physical health improves as well. But many people are struggling with their mental health these days due to COVID-19 and its upending effect on normal life.

“Nearly half of Americans are saying that COVID-19 has caused harm to their mental health,” says Charles Benjamin, Executive Director of Harrogate, Ocean County, New Jersey’s premier active senior living community. “As the pandemic continues to stretch on, it’s probably safe to say that we’ll see even more instances of declining mental health and wellness. That’s why it’s so important to take steps now to care for yourself and your mental health so you can ride out the storm, so to speak.”

Senior adults in particular are experiencing a lot more stress about COVID-19 than the rest of the general population. They’re the group that is most vulnerable to the disease, which is a very real and scary stress of its own. Seniors in general are also more prone to depression, anxiety and poorer mental health due to isolation, physical ailments and other factors.

“It’s essential for seniors to find ways to stay positive, boost their overall outlook and care for their mental health during this pandemic,” says Charles. “Putting good practices into place will not only help you right now, but it will also help in the future when we find a new semblance of normal. Caring for yourself is the biggest gift you can give to yourself at this time – and your body and mind will thank you for it tenfold.”

 

Here are some of Harrogate’s top tips for helping seniors boost their mental health and wellness.

 

  1. Get plenty of sleep.

Ever notice just how much better you feel after a good night’s sleep? It doesn’t just improve your mood and clear your mind; it also improves your physical health, increases your metabolism, reduces your risk of cardiovascular issues and can even lessen your risk of developing a cognitive disease like dementia. Unfortunately, it seems the times when we most need restful and relaxing sleep are when we’re stressed, anxious and worried … all things that make it more difficult to fall and stay asleep.

Experts suggest practicing good “sleep hygiene” in order to get your body and your mind ready for a good night’s rest. Turn off screens (even e-readers) at least an hour before bedtime. Make sure your bedroom isn’t too bright, is the right temperature and has a soothing and calming presence. (If you have a TV in your room, take it out – nothing’s worse for sleep than an in-suite TV). Create a bedtime routine (drinking a mug of tea and reading a chapter of a book) that gets you “in the mood” and you’ll set yourself up for sleepy success.

 

  1. Get moving.

Physical activity releases endorphins in our brain that help ease stress, reduce anxiety and clear our minds. It also helps us keep our bodies healthy, and – for seniors in particular – helps maintain balance and strength, regulates blood sugar and boosts metabolism. Try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise each day. A brisk walk around the block, gardening, doing yoga or holding a dance party in your kitchen are all great ways to get a little more motion in your life. Best of all, getting outside and into the fresh air is free – and CDC approved!

 

  1. Find ways to socialize.

This is harder to do in the age of social distancing, but fortunately, there are a lot of workarounds popping up. Video apps like Zoom, Skype and FaceTime have proven to be fantastic ways to stay in touch with friends and family and feel like you’re “in the same room.” This is great, because loneliness can increase anxiety, stress and depression like no other (and is a real problem for seniors). But if you’re longing for some real face-to-face interaction, there are still options for staying connected. Call a friend and hold a driveway happy hour or lunch break. Meet up for a walk in the park. Depending on how worried you are about contracting COVID-19, you may also be able to hold small gatherings at home or on the patio. However you choose to socialize, do it – even if it’s just a phone call or a text. You’ll feel so much better after spending some time talking with and socializing with people you care about.

 

  1. Find someone (or something) to love.

Pet adoption has skyrocketed during the pandemic because people are able to stay at home with the new puppy or kitten and get them socialized. Pet ownership is a wonderful way to stay mentally healthy and happy – in fact, studies have shown that seniors are happier and healthier when they have a pet to care for and love. Have you been considering four-legged companionship? Now’s a perfect time to adopt. If you’re not up for adopting just yet, you can consider fostering (there’s always a need for it) or start with a lower-impact pet like a fish or even a plant. Studies show that just the act of having something to care for will help boost mental health.

 

  1. Stay curious.

An active mind is a happy, healthy mind. A silver lining of this pandemic is that we suddenly find ourselves with lots and lots of spare time – making this a perfect time to learn a new skill, pick up an old one, go back to school (online, of course), play games … throwing yourself into an activity that you love and enjoy is a great way to stay happy and mentally well. Read those books that have been gathering dust on your bedside table and start a Zoom book club with your friends. Find ways to donate your time and efforts, whether that’s gathering donations for Goodwill or sewing masks to hand out to people in your neighborhood. The important thing is to keep learning, to keep searching and keep finding ways to involve your brain in the world around you.

 

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, home health, memory support 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 areas – just outside your door. Plentiful services and amenities always at your fingertips.

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

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.

Why a Life Care Community Makes Sense During Uncertain Times

It’s no secret that life can be uncertain at times. While this tends to make anyone a little nervous, by planning ahead, knowing what to expect and securing peace of mind, it can help to make the uncertain moments a little more peaceful. This is why many seniors take advantage of Life Care Communities!

 

“Life Care at Harrogate ensures our residents have access to everything they need when it’s needed,” says Gloria Walsh, Associate Executive Director at Harrogate, an active senior living community in Lakewood, New Jersey. “No matter what uncertainties come their way, we are there to lend a hand, assist when needed and provide the care, support and lifestyle they deserve.”

 

“In light of recent events, we’ve seen now more than ever how this peace of mind is valuable,” she adds. “Not only are we prepared and ready to face each day as it comes, but we are also helping residents, families and friends feel more comfortable and more carefree, in spite of all the uncertainty, change and frustration surrounding this time. Our residents are consistently remarking how safe, engaged and cared for they feel, and we couldn’t be prouder to serve them through everything life throws their way.”

 

Why Life Care Makes Sense During Uncertain Times

Life Care can do so much for seniors through certainty and uncertainty. Consider some of the following ways that Life Care Communities can benefit you or a loved one!

  • There is no fear about rising costs. When your health needs unexpectedly change, your costs do not. This ensures you can continue paying for care at the same cost you were previously while keeping costs considerably lower than market rates.
  • They take care of everything for you. You don’t need to think about grocery shopping, housekeeping, maintenance, yardwork or anything you don’t want to. This is because they’ve already thought of it all for you. Spend your time doing as you please, when you please, and rest assured knowing that your needs will be met with no issues.
  • Care is available if and when it’s needed. No matter how you or your spouse’s health needs change, Life Care ensures your needs are met. With independent living, skilled nursing care and rehabilitation, you can get the care you need all in one place. If your spouse needs a higher level of care, you don’t even need to worry about paying for two residences if you don’t want to move along with them! Instead, you can enjoy predictability, a plan for the future and peace of mind.
  • The team ensures you can remain connected and social. From engaging programming and activities to innovative ways to connect with others, no matter what’s going on, the team in a Life Care Community can ensure you remain happy, connected and engaged.
  • They are prepared for the unexpected. With an array of policies, procedures and plans in place, the team at a Life Care Community can help to ease your mind when things that are far outside of your control happen. With years of experiences, plans laid out and quick reaction times, the unexpected becomes expected, making you safer, calmer and even more comfortable.

 

No matter when uncertainty strikes, we are here keeping our residents Harrogate Happy. To learn more or speak to a member of our team, contact us today!

 

Discover what it means to be Harrogate Happy and learn more about how we can provide you with the lifestyle you deserve and aspire to. Call ​866-606-0178 for more information today!

 

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.

Harrogate: Offering Exceptional Senior Living to Toms River, NJ

When it comes to senior living, no one should settle for anything less than exceptional. At Harrogate, Ocean County, New Jersey’s premier active senior living community, located between Toms River and Lakewood, New Jersey, that’s exactly what residents get.

 

“Residents at Harrogate can enjoy the freedom to explore everything our 52-acre community has to offer while enjoying the opportunity to embrace and experience the best of life every day,” says Gloria Walsh, Associate Executive Director at Harrogate. “Harrogate is our residents’ happy place and it’s easy to see why. With exceptional value, community, security, purpose and a worry-free lifestyle, our residents wish they’d made the move years ago!”

 

“Worry Less, Live More” at Harrogate

Have a look at our lifestyle and explore what makes living at Harrogate a one-of-a-kind experience!

 

  • Expert health care services. With independent living and an array of health services, residents can enjoy the peace of mind that their needs will be able to be met without leaving the community they love. Each level of health services meets the specific needs and wants of the individual whether they desire independent living or require home health care, skilled nursing care, rehabilitation or memory support. No matter what our residents need, we have a care team consisting of on-site specialists including physicians, therapy staff, nursing professionals and more.

 

  • An array of services and amenities. Because we take all the worries off your plate, you can enjoy everything our community has to offer. Enjoy a class, attend a variety of events, hear from special speakers, go on trips and attend concerts. No matter what you’re looking for, we have an option for you.

 

  • A healthier and happier you with Eight Dimensions of Wellness. We combine the eight aspects of wellness to help ensure our residents live healthy, happy and well. We help residents age successfully by focusing on spiritual, intellectual, social, environmental, physical, emotional and vocational health as well as wellness and so much more.

 

  • Delicious dining. Our dining team strives to provide a restaurant-style dining experience. Menus are varied, we know your personal tastes and dietary preferences and we make your meals from scratch, just how you like them. Eat in our Kettle Creek Cafe, enjoy al fresco dining, and experience our Schnetzer Dining Room. The options are all yours.

 

  • A robust activities calendar. At Harrogate, we offer so many opportunities to engage, enrich and challenge yourself. Whether you want to enjoy your long-held hobbies, focus on hidden talents or learn something completely new, you can find your purpose and fill your days with socialization and happiness.

 

  • Floor plans to fit your desires. Our spacious, maintenance-free and newly renovated senior living apartments are available in a variety of floor plans. Pay a one-time entrance fee based on the size of residence you choose and then a monthly service fee that covers your maintenance, utilities, housekeeping, meals and so much more! Choose a plan to meet your needs and desires and experience the lifestyle you deserve.

 

  • A smart plan for tomorrow. At Harrogate, we know that life isn’t perfect. This is why we offer Life Care. With a one-time entrance fee, you will have access to the care levels you need, no matter when you need them. Life Care offers predictable monthly fees, even when you can’t predict what’s going to happen from day to day.

 

Discover what it means to be Harrogate Happy and learn more about how we can provide you with the lifestyle you deserve and aspire to. Call ​866-606-0178 for more information today!

 

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.

The Real Cost of Senior Living — It’s Not as Expensive as You Think

What’s the value of predictability and peace of mind?

You’ve worked hard to save for your retirement, and deciding how to best protect your nest egg while continuing to live the life you want can be difficult, especially when life can be so unpredictable. While you might prefer to stay in your home, it can be a challenge to keep up with home maintenance and feel almost impossible to find reliable people you can trust to work around your house.

So it’s not surprising many seniors turn to the maintenance-free lifestyle of a senior living community. But with all the senior living options out there, how can you figure out which one is right for you? In my experience, the biggest question seniors have is how much does senior living cost? And when you compare Life Plan Communities with senior living entrance fees and monthly fees versus rental communities with just monthly fees, you may want to know what you’re getting for your money. To help, here are five questions to ask yourself as well as a brief overview of both community types.

Choosing your best option

 

The culture and friendliness of residents and staff vary from community to community. So while looking at the cost of senior living communities is important, you should also visit as many places as possible to see if they fit with what you want.

As you start your search, here are five questions to consider that can help you make the best decision:

  1. What are your current and future needs? Consider the services and support you want now and in the future. Does the community have a continuum of care for seniors on-site, and how much does it cost? According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 70% of seniors 65+ will need some type of long-term care. A Genworth Cost of Care Survey conducted by CareScout® indicated that in our area, 2018 market rates for assisted living averaged $5,100/month, and a private room in skilled nursing costs $9,505/month.
  2. What can you afford? Senior living communities have a monthly fee to cover meals, utilities and other expenses, so it’s a good idea to figure out what you can afford. (These are expenses you’ll probably have whether you live at home or in a community.)
  3. Where do you want to live? Do you want to be near family and friends? Would you prefer to live near popular vacation destinations? Think about where you want to go, and remember, location can impact the cost of senior living.
  4. Where can you do your research? Online is the easiest way to do research. Visit a community’s website and Facebook page. Are there online reviews? Once you narrow down your list, you can call and ask questions, request more information, or schedule a personal visit.
  5. Who do you trust for advice? Asking friends, family and loved ones for advice is a good way to get a second opinion. If they have time, ask them to visit a community with you. They can help ensure you’re making the right choice.

Life Plan Communities

Life Plan Communities with Life Care, like Harrogate, require an entrance fee, but what does it cover, and is it a good idea? People who buy into a community through an entrance fee tend to be more invested in the culture and direction of where they live. At Harrogate, residents have a lot of input, which is why we offer a wide variety of services and amenities — like housekeeping, as well as indoor and outdoor maintenance — and a full calendar of fun activities, engaging clubs and educational opportunities.

If you’re healthy and active today, you’ll have the freedom and independence to do the things you love to do. And if you need a higher level of care in the future, you have guaranteed access to our continuum of care right on-site. So you won’t have to relocate to another community, and your monthly fee will remain about the same. While a portion of your nest egg is tied up in an entrance fee, at Harrogate we have several options to fit your budget, and a portion of your entrance fee is refundable to your or your estate.

Your monthly service fee also covers your utilities; provides you with delicious, chef-prepared dining options; gives you access to our fitness center and indoor pool; and much more. It’s also possible a portion of your monthly service fees are tax-deductible because you’re prepaying for your medical expenses. Talk with your tax adviser for all the details.

Rental communities

 

Not all senior living communities charge an entrance fee. Rental communities can have either a year-long lease or be month-to-month. While it does give you greater flexibility and control, you may not have access to higher levels of care, and if you do, you’ll be charged the market rates we discussed earlier on top of your monthly rent. Because rental communities only collect one fee, less money is typically spent offering services and amenities. Plus, your rent could also increase more quickly to produce additional revenue.

I hope you found this information useful and it answered the question of how much does senior living cost. At Harrogate, we have options to fit your budget that give you access to everything our community offers. If you’d like to learn more, give us a call at 866-606-0178 or use our contact form.