A person’s home is their castle, their kingdom, a sanctuary.
Whether it’s a place where they planted roots and raised a family or a place they moved to in the second stage of their life to find peace and contentment, the concept of home should evoke a sense of serenity, calm and well-being.
However, as we age, our home may become more than we can handle and we might need to make the difficult decision to move into an environment better suited to our comfort, health and safety.
Wellington Bay not only provides a luxurious living environment for retirees seeking independent living but also offers expert assisted living and memory care services through their on-site memory care facility, Lisbet Health Center.
“Making the transition into Assisted Living or Memory Care can be a very stressful decision for individuals and their loved ones,” said Jay Mikosch, Campus Executive Director at Wellington Bay. “Once safety and activities of daily living are compromised, it is necessary to find options to ensure basic needs are being met. It’s important to remember that assisted living and memory care facilities are designed to prioritize autonomy, safety and care.”
The decision for a loved one to move into assisted living can be a difficult one with many factors to consider but feeling supported and heard during this transitional period as well as being equipped with knowledge can help make the transition easier.
In honor of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, Jay is sharing some information about signs to look out for when considering the decision to move into a residential assisted living community.
Maintaining physical safety is one of the biggest indicators.
As we get older, we lose both muscle mass and strength and the lenses in our eyes become less flexible, leading to worsening vision. This can increase the likelihood of falls and other accidents – a frightening prospect for both seniors and the people who love them.
Each resident at Wellington Bay is given a wearable device upon check-in which alerts staff in case of an emergency and ensures they will receive the medical care they need.
“Currently, all staff and almost all residents wear the NxtGen Care Resident M Factor Tech,” said Selina Huong Tran, R.N, Administrator of Lisbet Health Center at Wellington Bay. “We can locate all residents and staff in the building at all times and this system improves response times to resident calls as well as it documents how long we take to respond to any given call.”
The ability to locate residents is crucial, especially if they experience issues like memory loss or other cognitive difficulties which could indicate a neurological condition like Alzheimer’s disease.
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 60% of people with Alzheimer’s wander at least once and many do so repeatedly which can be dangerous at best and life-threatening at worst. Alzheimer’s patients may attempt to “go home” despite being at home, forget how to get to familiar places, get lost and wander into traffic.
“At Lisbet Memory Care, we offer specialized services for people with Alzheimer’s. We have a staff trained to work with people with cognitive impairments and our facility is a secure environment, equipped with secured doors, alarms and enclosed outdoor areas,” Jay said. “We offer structured routines such as scheduled meals and activities which are designed to promote cognitive stimulation as well as social interaction and we make sure we personalize every single care plan to the individual.”
As we get older, our medical needs also increase. We might start taking medication more often and might need more intensive medical care.
Care is viewed through a holistic lens with assisted living communities like Wellington Bay offering three balanced meals daily, ensuring proper hydration and offering life engagement activities to keep residents cognitively and physically engaged.
They also offer medication management implemented by a licensed professional. This includes not only administering medications but also watching for side effects and coordinating with pharmacies to ensure refills are received in a timely manner. They also offer preventative health monitoring services like regular blood pressure, temperature and oxygen saturation checks as well as blood sugar monitoring and cholesterol screenings for those who might need the additional medical support.
“Forgetting to take medication can have serious consequences,” Jay said. “The more doses you miss, the greater the chance of developing life-threatening health complications. Having a trained staff member meticulously monitor medication relieves stress for both the resident and their loved ones.”
There are many factors to consider when moving into an assisted living facility – health, safety, socialization and personalized care by a trained professional – and finding the right fit between community and person takes dedicated research and time.
“Take a tour of the community to get a feel for what it’s really like,” Jay said. “People should also review online reviews and social media posts in order to make the most informed decision.”
However, the effort put in is worth it as you know that your loved one will receive the attention and care they need to improve their quality of life as they grow older.
My friend arrived from her trip to the west coast of Florida. Her house in Winter Park was fine. Her best friends house in Tampa wasn’t so lucky, and so she headed over to help her recover. Like a lot of people, she was in shock, unable to emote, move forward or ask for help.
We watch the news with our family. Heck, maybe we know people who were affected by the tornadoes in Wellington and Loxahatchee. I’m fortunate to say that my friends and family were unscathed.
Or were they? Based on my friend’s reaction, I quickly skimmed through my local friends. Do I know someone that was going through something similar? Shocked and unable to ask for the help they need?
Maybe this Thanksgiving we could encourage our kids to check in on our friends more regularly. Sometimes, the issues are obvious- a hurricane, tornadoes or flooding. Other times, it’s more subtle, quiet problems that are leaving them shell shocked and unable to even ask for help.
So as you gather around your table, think about the people in your life that could be hurting. What can we do to help them? It might be something simple. A small gesture at the right time could mean everything.
Love, real love, comes not from words but from our actions.
Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. In a large bowl, combine the ingredients and mix well. Pour the mixture into the casserole dish. Bake 40 to 50 minutes, or until the spoon bread is golden brown and set.
Starting a fitness regimen or maintaining an active lifestyle can take a toll on the body, often resulting in muscle soreness, tension, and pain with your everyday movements. Recovery looks different for everyone, though. That’s where massage therapy comes in—a valuable tool not just for athletes, but for anyone engaging in regular physical activity looking for a tool that doesn’t include more weight and movement. David Hess, LMT CPT, massage therapist for Florida Atlantic University Athletics, lets us in on this preventive and corrective practice.
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, massage therapy involves “manipulating the soft tissues of the body” in many areas of the body including low-back pain, neck and shoulder pain, osteoarthritis of the knee and even headaches. Pain inflicted by gym weights or the weight of life presents itself the same in the human body which is why massage therapy is so versatile. Hess says that the “increased circulation brings nutrients to the tissue and assists in the removal of waste materials” in the body.
The benefits of massage therapy are well-documented and widely recognized. For gym-goers and athletes, massages help in reducing “muscle hypertonicity and adhesions to restore length and function” Hess states, which is fundamental for performance enhancement and injury prevention. But not all of us are athletes.
“The benefits are the same whether you’re a weekend warrior or a professional athlete…but we also see non-athletic injuries as well. Auto accidents, falls, repetitive movements and stress disorders. All of which can be treated with different variations of massage therapy.”
Except massage therapy doesn’t always have to be in response to an injury. Hess would consider massage therapy both preventative and corrective. “Although all injuries can’t be completely avoided, some can be prevented. Treatment to a dysfunctionally tight muscle can restore it to its normal length and decrease the chances of a more serious injury.”
Office workers, for instance, benefit from massage therapy to alleviate tension from prolonged sitting, while individuals recovering from surgery may find it aids in reducing scar tissue and enhancing mobility.
Hess adds that it’s equally as important knowing how to find a qualified massage therapist as much as it is knowing the benefits of the practice. “All massage therapists in Florida need to be licensed and that license number has to be visible in all their advertisements. The license number will look like MA#. You can even look up a therapist’s license number on the Department Of Health website (floridahealthe.gov). A therapist should carry liability insurance.”
Lastly, Hess stresses that you will get the best results if you know what modality of massage therapy you need. You wouldn’t go to a therapist who specializes in cupping and neuromuscular practices when you need lymphatic drainage or reflexology. You can find more information on different modalities using online resources.
Hess is currently accepting new clients at his Wellington, Florida office. Appointments can be made by visiting www.hesssportsmassage.com.
This being human is a guest house. Every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness, some momentary awareness comes as an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all! Even if they’re a crowd of sorrows, who violently sweep your house empty of its furniture, still, treat each guest honorably. He may be clearing you out for some new delight.
The dark thought, the shame, the malice, meet them at the door laughing, and invite them in.
Be grateful for whoever comes, because each has been sent as a guide from beyond.
Boynton Beach, FL (October 31, 2024)—Josie’s Ristorante, the family-owned Italian favorite located in East Boynton Beach, will offer several specials and promotions this November, including a complimentary ENTREE for veterans on Veterans Day.
On Veterans Day, Monday, November 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Josie’s will provide one complimentary ENTREE for veterans and active military. All VETERANS must show proper identification. Available for dine-in only.
Josie’s will also offer a gift card special for Black Friday, on Friday, November 29. Customers will receive 20% off all in-person gift card orders. Available on Black Friday only.
This November, Josie’s will also offer an extension on the following specials:
Meatball and Martini Monday $3 meatballs and $4 off Watermelon, Limoncello, and Dirty Martinis.
Wine and Warrior Wednesday: 20% off wine bottles under $80 and 25% off one entrée for active duty and veteran military members.
Bottomless Brunch: $12 bottomless mimosas and bloody Mary’s on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Saturday Brunch Promotion: $5 appetizer with the purchase of two or more full priced brunch entrées. Options include Shrimp Bada Bing ($15 value), traditional Calamari ($15 value), and the Prime Short Rib Meatball ($9 value).
Specials are available through November 30. Each offer cannot be combined with any other offer. Other exclusions may apply.
About Josie’s Ristorante
Josie’s Ristorante uses only the freshest and highest quality ingredients in every dish, from succulent seafood and prime steaks to locally sourced produce. Family owned since 1993, Josie’s has recently renovated its interior and exterior including new booths, tables and chairs, as well as its scenic patio. Josie’s Ristorante is located at 650 E. Woolbright Rd., Boynton Beach. For more information, call (561) 364-9601 or visit https://www.josiesristorante.com.
The two-day outdoor event will also include live music, a Florida-inspired exhibition, and craft food
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (October 31, 2024) — In celebration of the Armory Art Center’s upcoming 40th anniversary, the cultural organization has reimagined its 8th annual festival.
The free Art + Craft + Design Creative Market willtake place at the Armory’s historic campus in West Palm Beach on Saturday, November 9 and Sunday, November 10, 2024 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
The free market will highlight over 50 artisans representing a variety of styles, including ceramics, contemporary art, jewelry, metal, wood, sculpture, painting, photography, and much more.
The Creative Market will also feature:
Live local music and art demonstrations
Delicious craft food and beverages—including a bloody Mary and mimosa bar
Youth & children’s activities throughout the day
A special exhibition featuring Florida-based artists
Giveaways
and more!
Located within walking distance of CityPlace, Antique Row, the Norton Museum of Art, and the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, the Armory hosts thousands of visitors every year. By expanding its offerings, the Creative Market will showcase additional artisans, styles, and wares—supporting creative professionals in a more significant way.
If You Go
Shop til you drop! Scheduled at the perfect time for great South Florida weather, guests can browse goods from more than 50 local and regional artisans for holiday shopping and unique finds. The Armory will also host a pop-up gift store and will be holding special giveaways and discounts for those who register for art classes onsite.
Dance the day away! Guests of all ages can enjoy live performances from a variety of local artists and take in several exciting live art demonstrations, including:
Ongoing Studio Demos (10 a.m.-4 p.m.)
Ceramics & Sculpture Studios
See potters at work during our open studios
Jewelry & Metalsmithing Studios
See jewelers working at the bench and take time for Q&A:
Lapidary Demo with Lee Miller (Saturday only)
Wax Carving & Casting with April Finch
Stone Setting and Polishing with Alicia Jane Boswell
Saturday, November 9
Live Music:
Baji (10:30-11:15 a.m.)
Adam Douglas (11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m.)
AJ Lora (12:30-2:15 p.m.)
Thomas and Rachel (2:30-3:15 p.m.)
NOSLEEPKB (3:30-4:15 p.m.)
Visit us in the courtyard for live art demonstrations (10 a.m.-4 p.m.)
Collage Demo with Pat Lappin (10-11 a.m.)
Plein Air Painting with Ted Matz (10-11 a.m.)
Wheel Thrown Pottery (11-11:30 a.m.)
Campus & Studio Tour *meet at the Armory information tent (11:30 a.m.-12 p.m.)
Stacker Rings with Hanna Love (Jewelry Studio) (1-2 p.m.)
Plein Air Painting with Nancy Tart (1-2 p.m.)
Raku Fired Pottery with Mark Walnock (2-2:45 p.m.)
Eco-Printing with Milena Arango (3-4 p.m.)
Sunday, November 10
Live Music:
Baji (10:30-11:15 a.m.)
Adam Douglas (11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m)
Thomas & Rachel (1-3:30 p.m.)
Visit us in the courtyard for live art demonstrations (10 a.m.-4 p.m.)
Collage Demo with Pat Lappin (10-11 a.m.)
Wheel Thrown Pottery (11-11:30 a.m.)
Campus & Studio Tour *meet at the Armory information tent (11:30 a.m.-12 p.m.)
Sgraffito Enamel with Michel McNabb (Jewelry Studio) (1-2 p.m.)
Raku Fired Pottery with Mark Walnock (2-2:45 p.m.)
Watercolor Painting with Jerilyn Brown (3-4 p.m.)
Refuel with a selection of hand-crafted beverages and bites for purchase, including a scrumptious mimosa and bloody Mary bar, smash burgers, and more. Budding artists can enjoy an interactive art activity, as well as ornament-making, in the Youth Art Area.
Don’t miss the Armory’s newest exhibitions. “A Day in the Life of Palm Beach” features beautiful artworks from Florida-based artists. All works are for sale (with proceeds split between the artists and Armory). Meanwhile, “Introspection” showcases works by Milena Arango, a Colombian artist based in West Palm Beach. Both shows run from November 4 to December 28, 2024.
This event is generously sponsored by The Laurence W. Levine Foundation, The Ellerin Family Charitable Fund, and The Palm Beach Post/LocaliQ. We also extend our thanks to the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County, Discover The Palm Beaches, and the Tourist Development Council of Palm Beach County for their ongoing support.
For more information and a complete schedule of activities, visit armoryart.org.
Calendar Item:
8th Annual Art + Craft + Design Creative Market
Location: Armory Art Center (811 Park Place, West Palm Beach, Fla., 33401)
Dates: November 9-10, 2024 (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
Admission: Free
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About the Armory Art Center:
Having served the community for over 30 years, the Armory Art Center’s art school and galleries provide creative opportunities to enhance your life. The mission of the Armory Art Center is to inspire the creation and experience of art and the Armory Art Center’s vision is to be the leading community resource for arts education. Serving over 3,000 students annually, the Armory Art Center offers 160 courses per term in six terms throughout the year to students ranging in age from preschool to retiree. Classes in drawing, painting, photography, jewelry, fiber & textiles, ceramics, and sculpture are held in 12 state-of-the-art studios. Twelve exhibitions are hosted annually in three galleries. The Armory’s exhibitions, lectures, and special events are open to the public.
The Armory is proud to have been the recipient of several awards in recent years, including The Palm Beach Post’s Best of Palm Beach County (2022 Best Art Gallery), Chamber of Commerce of The Palm Beaches (2021 Nonprofit of the Year), The Flamingos: Florida Weekly’s Best Awards (2021 Best Place to Create Art), the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County’s Muse Awards (2020 Legacy Award) and more.
For information, visit www.armoryart.org or call (561) 832-1776. The Armory Art Center is located at 811 Park Place, West Palm Beach, Fla., 33401.
Please join the Wellington Garden Club for their monthly meeting on Monday, November 4, 2024.
We meet at the Wellington Community Center located at 12150 Forest Hill Boulevard.
The meeting starts at 9:30 with a Social complete with coffee, tea, or juice paired with delicious delicacies brought in by our members. The actual meeting begins at 10:15 with the introduction of our illustrious guest speaker. The business meeting begins once the speaker is finished which is normally around 11:00.
Our November Guest Speaker is Dr. Paul Gray. He is the Science Coordinator for Audubon Florida’s Everglades Restoration Program. Dr. Gray is going to talk about the History of Human Relationships with Waterfowl.
Every month, the Wellington Garden Club goes on a fun excursion to one special place around Palm Beach County. We call these monthly excursions Around and Abouts, and this month we are going to Cluett Memorial Garden located on the grounds of The Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea. The address is 141 S. County Road, Palm Beach Florida. We are also touring Kit Pannill’s Garden, which is a private garden on Palm Beach. The excursion begins at 9:30.
Come to our meetings and you will discover a fun group comprised of people whose interests are as varied as flowers in a garden. Some of us like to garden while others just like to enjoy the beauty of a garden. Our members enjoy photography, flower arranging, teaching monthly art classes, theatre, butterfly gardening, youth gardening, and many other passions. Once a month we meet at a member’s house to enjoy their garden and possibly a bottle of wine at our Sunset Social.
We hope to see you at our meeting!! If you have any questions or need address clarification please call:
Hello everyone! I hope you had an enchanting, amazing Halloween. Today I wanted to discuss something that’s personal. And with the holidays such as Christmas and Thanksgiving coming up, I figured now would be a perfect time. Though Thanksgiving and Christmas bring with it merriment, festivities, and of course gratitude (yeah I never would’ve guessed on that one), for many people, the holidays can bring a bit of stress. So let’s chat about it. Here are a few ways you can work on your mental health during the holiday season.
The first one I have is to, in the words of Parks and Recreation, “treat yo self.” What does it mean to treat yourself? It means if you’re having a day where you’re struggling: feeling depressed, extra anxious, whatever, do something for you. Do something that makes you feel relaxed, calm, or joyful. I don’t often treat myself, but a little while ago, early October to be exact, I did. I was feeling a bit miserable, and so I decided to buy the box set of a show I’d been wanting to see for a long time. Yes, before you ask, it was Community. I love comedy shows, and this show I’d been wanting to see for ages. Another thing I like to do to treat myself is rewatch a favorite movie. Not too long ago, one summer’s day, I rewatched the classic Ghibli film Spirited Away. When I treat myself, it reminds me of how much I cherish myself. And everyone needs to value themselves around the holidays.
My second tip is to volunteer. I aspire in my daily life to make a difference, to improve the world. If not the world than the life of one person. I volunteer now whenever I can. I started volunteering for the Cox Science Center and Aquarium in July of 2022, and I still absolutely adore it. Everyone I’ve been able to meet has been so kind and friendly. Plus, I’m a science nerd! Some other volunteering opportunities I’ve had are with the Greenacres Historical Society and the Palm Beach County Library System. I’ve volunteered with the Greenacres Historical society since June of 2023, and been able to look at censuses, sort through photos, among other things. For someone who’s considering history as a backup major, it’s a fantastic experience. I do feel like a time traveler, bringing the past back to life. Finally..the library! I’m a bibliophile, and it’s incredible learning how to sort books. I’ve already been able to learn so much. I feel as if I’m able to be part of an ever flowing river of knowledge, one that is becoming deeper every moment. Volunteering in general is a delightful way to help others, and in the end makes you feel good. And, according to www.ableto.com, it helps to lower stress levels and fight depression.
Anyway, that’s all I have for you this month. Make sure to take it easy and to practice gratitude every day. See you all soon!
