Category: Independent Living

Active Adult Communities vs. Retirement Communities: Understanding the Difference

As individuals approach the age of retirement, they will often explore housing options that cater to their specific needs and lifestyle. Often used interchangeably, active adult communities and retirement communities present very different opportunities for older adults. Understanding the difference between these two living options for retirees will help you make an informed decision that fits your lifestyle.

Active Adult Communities

Active adult communities are designed for individuals that are seeking an independent lifestyle. These communities typically feature single-family homes, townhouses, or condominiums. Key features of active adult communities include:

Age-Restrictions

One defining characteristic of active adult communities is the 55+ age restriction. These communities aim to create an environment where residents can enjoy an active and social lifestyle amongst their peers. Age restrictions help ensure a sense of community and shared interests.

Lifestyle

Geared towards an independent lifestyle, these communities provide an environment where residents are encouraged to pursue their hobbies, remain active, and socialize. While some residents of active adult communities may still work, others will spend their time organizing clubs and excursions with their neighbors. These communities do not typically have dedicated staff onsite to organize outings and activities.

Services and Healthcare

Maintenance and landscaping services are commonly provided to residents in active adult communities allowing them the freedom to maintain their own home independently. Interior maintenance of the home such as housekeeping services are not usually provided and would have to be contracted out. Healthcare and support services may not be readily available in the direct vicinity of the community. Should a resident’s health needs change, they may have to consider relocating to an assisted living or skilled nursing community.

Retirement Communities

Retirement communities are designed to provide a supportive and inclusive environment by offering a range of living options and care levels. A variety services are provided to residents based on their changing needs and independence. Key features of retirement communities include:

Age Diversity

Continuing care retirement communities like Maple Knoll Village are designed to allow residents to age in place by providing all levels of care. This includes independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing. These different levels of care allow for a diverse range of resident ages and abilities.

Engaging Lifestyle

Retirement communities employ activity staff dedicated to creating engaging activities and excursions for residents. This fosters a sense of community and belonging by encouraging residents to socialize, connect, and participate in group activities. At Maple Knoll Village, each level of care has its own dedicated activity staff ensuring activities are personalized based on individual abilities. Our residents enjoy a variety of activities and excursions such as weekly happy hours, technology classes, cooking demonstrations, and scheduled trips to art performances, museums, and restaurants.

Focus on Services and Healthcare Support

Retirement communities ensure quality care and support is provided by offering on-site healthcare services or local healthcare partnerships. Services may include assistance with daily activities, medication management, wellness programs, access to medical professionals, and specialized memory care for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

The nursing staff at Maple Knoll Village provide quality and compassionate care for residents with the bonus of an on-site clinic staffed by highly accredited physicians. The availability of healthcare services within the Maple Knoll community ensures that the changing health needs of residents are addressed promptly and effectively.

Retirement communities also provide a wide range of services such as: dining, housekeeping, transportation, landscaping, and maintenance. Residents of Maple Knoll also enjoy many on-site amenities including: a fitness center and indoor pool, multiple dining venues, a hair salon, technology lab, gathering spaces, and an accredited arboretum.

Making the Choice

Choosing between an active adult community and a retirement community depends on your needs and desired lifestyle. Active adult communities are ideal for those who live independent and active lives without fear of the future. Retirement communities are ideal for those who desire a supportive and inclusive community with options for different levels of care as their needs evolve.

When considering your retirement living options, it’s important to carefully consider factors such as lifestyle, healthcare requirements, and long-term goals. Touring different communities, talking to current residents, and consulting with loved ones can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your vision of a fulfilling retirement. To schedule a tour of Maple Knoll Village, please visit www.mapleknoll.org or call 513-782-2717.

Common Financial Scams that Target Older Adults

According to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), over 88,000 individuals ages 60 and up reported they were victims of an internet scam in 2022. This was a drastic 84% increase compared to 2021 reports, and monetary losses totaled over three billion dollars, the highest monetary loss compared to all other age groups.

As the number of financial scams targeting seniors continues to rise, it is important to educate yourself and your loved ones on common scams to protect yourself against them. Some of the most common financial scams that target older adults include sweepstakes scams, robocall scams, and impersonation scams.

Sweepstakes Scams

One of the most common types of financial scams, sweepstakes and lottery scams tend to follow a similar script. The scammer will call or email an older adult notifying them that they have won a prize of some sort. The catch is that the scammer will claim that to receive their winnings, the older adult must cover taxes or shipping fees by sending them gift cards or money up front. This can result in the older adult losing hundreds, if not thousands of dollars. Any type of request to send someone money to receive a prize should be considered a red flag. If you find yourself on the receiving end of what you suspect is a sweepstakes scam, hang up and consult with a trusted friend or loved one before complying.

Robocall Scams

With the development of modern technology, robocall scams have become increasingly sophisticated in recent years. Scammers can disguise the number they are calling from, making it seem that it is from a reputable organization. Some robocall scams will claim that your car payment did not go through, and immediate payment is required to prevent your car from being repossessed. Other robocall scams may claim they are from a law enforcement agency and request that you pay a fine otherwise you will be sued or arrested. If you ever receive one of these calls, it is important to contact local law enforcement to report the call and confirm if the information is true before taking any action.

Impersonation Scams

Scammers will often use a fake caller ID or email to pretend to be someone they are not such as your bank, utility company, or a government agency. They will use various high-pressure tactics to trick you into giving up information by playing on your emotions. They may claim that there has been fraud detected on your account or threaten you with legal action if you do not comply with their requests. While these tactics can certainly be scary, it is important to pause and evaluate the situation before reacting. If it seems abnormal for the company to contact you in this way or you were not expecting this type of phone call, do not give them any personal or financial information and hang up. If you think it might be a real phone call, it is still important to be cautious. Tell them you will call them back and hang up. Look up the customer service number for the company they are claiming to be from and give them a call to see if the request was legitimate.

Another type of impersonation scam that has become increasingly common is the “grandparent” scam. These phone calls can be especially scary as the scammer will call pretending to be the older adult’s child or grandchild. They may claim to be in trouble, in jail, or even kidnapped and will often demand you send them a gift card or money transfer. They may also demand that you keep this information private and request that you do not contact the authorities or your family about the situation. If you receive a phone call like this, it is only natural for you to feel scared and protective. However, it is extremely important to be careful and smart about how you respond. One way you can determine if it is actually your child or grandchild is by asking questions only, they would know the answer to. For example, if your child or grandchild does not have a brother named Ted, ask the caller if they have contacted their brother Ted. If they do not point out that they do not have a brother named Ted, you will know it is not your loved one. If you do fear that the phone call is real and your loved one is in danger, do not agree to send money and call the authorities immediately.

Scams can and do happen to anyone. They are designed to make us fall for them and can be incredibly sophisticated. Educating yourself and staying cautious are the best ways to protect yourself from scammers. Reputable organizations will never request gift cards as a method of payment, and you should never provide personal or financial phone via text or email.

Resources such as AARP, the National Council on Aging, and Ohio Department of Aging all provide great information and tools for protecting yourself against scams. If you feel you may have been the target of a scam, immediately report it to the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.

The Time for Seniors to Sell Their Home is Now

If you have been watching the housing market and wondering when the right time to sell your home is, the time could very well be now. According the Wall Street Journal, the real estate market is still strongly favoring sellers. Because of the high demand for homes and the low inventory available, the real estate market is experiencing a boom. Home showings often come with a long list of interested parties and buyers are often offering over the asking price to beat out their competition.

This has created the ideal environment for older adults to list their homes on the market and move into a more manageable living accommodation by downsizing into an active retirement community.

Selling Your Home

When starting the process of selling your home, it is important to consult a realtor. While realtors will typically collect a commission on each home sale, they also bring valuable knowledge and experience to the table that often greatly outweighs the cost. The right realtor can provide you with insight on minor improvements that can be made to your home to increase the value and attract more buyers. A realtor will also manage a variety of tedious tasks including scheduling and hosting tours, speaking with prospective buyers, fielding offers, and ensuring all appropriate paperwork is completed. Having an expert oversee the tasks you are not familiar with can alleviate much of the stress that comes with selling a home.

Homeowners should collaborate with their realtor to review the most recent comparable sales in their area to ensure they are setting a fair price that reflects the market’s current mortgage rates and inventory levels. “It is important to price a home correctly when it first lists as the longer a home stays on the market, the steeper the price cuts typically become” says Veronica Dagher from The Wall Street Journal.

“So far, all homes sold within 30 days in 2023 had an average discount of 7%”, says Lawrence Yun, the National Association of Relator’s chief economist. “Homes on the market over 120 days sold with 16% off list price”. With the right pricing, the equity made on the sale of your house can provide you with even more confidence as you move into your new home.

Deciding Where to Move

One of the most common roadblocks homeowners encounter when deciding to sell their home is having a new place to live lined up. Because the real estate market is currently a seller’s market, finding a new home that is not only available but also within your budget can be tricky.

Fortunately, retirement communities such as Maple Knoll Village provide peace of mind knowing that the price listed for your desired living accommodation is exactly what you will pay. The cost of living at a retirement community is generally allocated into one monthly fee that includes the cost of rent, utilities, maintenance, housekeeping, as well as added services and amenities allowing you to meet your financial goals without having to worry about added HOA fees and other surprise expenses.

Maple Knoll Village, offers a range of villa and apartment floorplans ranging in size from 590 to 4,000 square feet. This wide variety of living accommodations ensures there is something for everyone. The dedicated Marketing and Residential Services team ensure that you will be well prepared for your move to the community.

Moving Into Your New Home

The moving process can be tedious, emotional, and stressful for anyone, especially those who have lived in their home for decades. By starting early and having a well-organized plan, the moving process can become less stressful and even enjoyable.

Maple Knoll Village has numerous resources to make your moving process as seamless as possible including helpful articles on downsizing and partnerships with locally trusted senior moving companies such as Moving Matters.

“In the moving industry, there is no typical day on the job. What I provide my clients with is the assurance that my 16 years of experience in both working for and now owning a small moving business has prepared myself and my team for just about anything” says Brendon Akey, Owner of Moving Matters.

“Because clients who are looking to move typically have different amounts of cherished furniture and items, the timeframe for jobs varies. Some jobs can be completed in a couple of hours and are priced according to the hourly truck and fuel rate. Other larger jobs may require more resources including the full turn-key operation of packing, moving, unpacking, and hanging art on the walls. Most jobs can be completed in one day and are priced accordingly.

No one job is like the next and for that, I provide all clients with a free consultation. I have had the privilege of moving some incredible people, which is why I love what I do.”

If you are ready to start the moving process or just want to learn more about senior living, please visit us online at www.mapleknoll.org or give us a call at 513-782-2717.

When it Comes to Sustainability, Where You Live Matters

What is Sustainability?

Sustainability is most often defined as the ability to exist and develop in the present without depleting natural resources of the future.

Why should living sustainably matter to you?

To put it simply, living sustainably should matter because our entire existence depends on the health of our planet. Natural resources allow us to enjoy many daily activities we take for granted such as breathing, driving our car to the grocery store, or even taking a shower. In fact, according to a Readers Digest article, if we ran out of energy sources such as water, oxygen, or fuel, there would be catastrophic consequences. These energy sources are nonrenewable meaning that they cannot be replaced nearly as fast as they are consumed.

Water

Water makes up about 70% of our planet’s surface, however, almost 95% of that water is unsuitable to be consumed due to it being confined to glacier formations or being polluted by industrial and agricultural waste. NASA has conducted numerous studies that have found that much of our freshwater sources are being drained much faster than they are being replenished. Increasing population worldwide, global warming, and urban development are three of the biggest culprits, yet, we as individuals are also to blame. The EPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency) estimates that each American uses over 80 gallons of water per day.

What can you do to conserve water?

While we are all probably guilty of unnecessarily wasting water at some point or other, there are simple changes we can make in our daily habits to help conserve water:

Turn off the faucet while you brush your teeth
Install and use dual flush toilets in your home
Use a rain barrel to water your indoor and outdoor plants
Fix any existing leaks you might have. A leaky toilet can waste almost 200 gallons of water per day
Run the dishwasher or washing machine only when you have a full load and make sure you are selecting the right load size on your washing machine
Scrape dishes rather than rinse them before loading into the dishwasher
Be mindful of your water use and take shorter showers

Oxygen and Fossil Fuels

NASA has determined that oxygen levels have been declining for hundreds of thousands of years, and the main culprit of this decline is carbon emissions. Carbon emissions come from the burning of fossil fuels such as oil, coal, and natural gas. Over 80% of energy in the United States comes from fossil fuels, and if we continue relying on these fuels like we currently are, scientists fear we may be at risk of running out of them by 2060.

On top of the risk of running out of fossil fuels, the carbon that is released from burning these fuels combines with oxygen molecules in the air and creates carbon dioxide (CO2). This process traps the oxygen in the air, preventing us from being able use that oxygen to breathe. CO2 is also the primary culprit of global warming. According to MIT, global warming causes our oceans to warm up significantly. Which might not sound too terrible except for the fact that the warmer liquids like water become, the less dissolved gas they can hold. The less gas our ocean water can hold, the less dissolved oxygen is available for marine life to survive off.

What can you do to reduce your carbon footprint (the use of fossil fuels)?

Turn off lights and devices whenever they are not in use. Try to make as much use out of natural light during the day as possible
Use LED lightbulbs. Not only do these lightbulbs use less energy, but they also last much longer
Reuse or replace products that are produced by fossil fuels.
1. Avoid using disposable paper or plastic shopping bags. Instead opt for reusable fabric shopping bags
2. Invest in reusable containers for water instead of buying bottled water
3. Consider visiting a local zero waste store to explore different products you could be using in your daily life such as reusable towels to replace paper towels or beeswax sheets to replace saran wrap
Recycle plastics, paper, and aluminum whenever possible
Take public transportation, walk, or ride your bicycle if able to
1. If using a car is your only option, consider an energy efficient vehicle
You also might consider investing in solar panels for your home instead of solely relying on power from coal plants

Does it matter where you live?

The short answer is yes. When trying to live a more sustainable life, it is very important to surround yourself in a community that is also practicing living a sustainable lifestyle. In the near future, we can expect an increase in the number of senior living communities that will move towards significantly reducing their carbon footprint by living more sustainably.

Maple Knoll Village, a continuing care retirement community located in Cincinnati, Ohio, is already ahead of the sustainability game in many ways. The biggest strength our community has when it comes to sustainability, is community involvement and education. Our management team and residents recently formed a Sustainability Team dedicated to brainstorming ways they can create a more sustainable environment that will be enjoyed by many generations to come.

Residents have already begun implementing their ideas throughout campus including a shared vegetable and herb garden. While members of the resident community garden club are responsible for maintaining this garden, all residents are welcome to enjoy the produce grown. This not only allows our residents to reduce their carbon footprint by eating local, organic produce, but also provides opportunities for residents to get to know each other and socialize. Other resident efforts include educational pieces in monthly newsletters focused on recycling and daily changes you can make towards reducing your carbon footprint.

Our newest Coventry Court Villas earned the esteemed LEED Platinum Certification in 2020. This is the highest LEED (Leader in Energy and Environmental Design) level of certification available through the U.S. Green Building Council. This status was achieved by including these key design features: storm water capture & water efficient irrigation systems, energy star roof shingles and appliances, high efficiency gas furnaces, tankless gas water heaters, high performance E windows and doors, LED lighting fixtures, air tight building envelope with performance testing and continuous insulation, use of recycled and locally sourced building materials and roughed-in electric in each garage for optional electric car charger stations.

Plans for new construction at Maple Knoll Village feature green energy and sustainability at the forefront. As solar energy becomes more accessible and efficient, implementing solar panels and geothermal energy alternatives in new and existing construction is a high priority of the Sustainability Team as they continue to evaluate efforts towards creating a more sustainable community.

Sustainable communities like Maple Knoll Village not only provide a healthier living environment for residents but can also provide a more engaged lifestyle for residents offering them many opportunities to get involved and go green with their neighbors. A Harvard study found that the cognitive scores of residents residing in green communities were 61% higher than those that were not residing in green communities. Residents of these communities are also more likely to have a higher sense of purpose, fulfillment, and improved mental health.

Adopting sustainable practices, whether large or small, can have significant impacts in the long run. To learn more about Maple Knoll Village’s efforts towards becoming a more sustainable community and to schedule a tour of our community, contact us here.

The Importance of Involvement

Social involvement is important at any age, especially for older adults. Having an active role in the community adds purpose and meaning to their lives while also providing opportunities to build lasting friendships. Residents of Maple Knoll Village are encouraged to be as involved in the Maple Knoll community as they desire. Three of the biggest ways residents can be involved on campus include resident committees, social and recreational programming, and volunteer opportunities.

Resident Committees
At Maple Knoll Village, we believe that the best way to improve community life for our residents is by listening to the residents themselves. Maple Knoll residents have the opportunity to be involved in the Resident’s Council. This council is overseen by Erin Navaro, our Residential Services Manager, and is comprised of various committees focused on dining, safety, technology, hospitality, and activities as well as a representative from each neighborhood. Residents work with staff in these committees to provide suggestions and ideas to enhance campus life. These suggestions are reviewed at Resident Council and then passed onto administration.

Social and Recreational Programming
The amenities at Maple Knoll Village allow residents the freedom to be as active as they wish. Our 54-acre campus features a certified arboretum, walking paths, and gardens providing an outdoor sanctuary. Inside our main building you will find Main Street which is lined with the Bistro on the Green, the ServUS Technology Lab, Mane Street Salon, our 24-hour Marketplace, chapel, weaving room, and multiple spaces for resident gatherings. On campus you will also find a state of the art Wellness Center with a warm water pool and sauna, the Woodshop, shuffleboards, ping pong tables, and Cheers pub.

Each level of care at Maple Knoll Village has trained Activity staff dedicated to ensuring our residents live their lives to fullest. This can be seen through various planned social, cultural, and educational programs. Local entertainment from the community and area colleges are frequently brought in for residents to enjoy as well.

One of the most popular activities offered is the weekly “Wine ‘n Words” happy hour. Independent living residents come together to enjoy food and drinks, socialize, and even meet new people. Residents also have frequent opportunities to enjoy life outside of Maple Knoll Village by visiting the Cincinnati Zoo, attending Reds games, or enjoying a morning at the Symphony.

Volunteer Opportunities
Maple Knoll Village provides both residents and the outside community with many volunteer opportunities. Residents can volunteer on campus several ways including: assisting at the front desk, bartending for various social events and weekly happy hours, crafting projects for the community in the Woodshop, working in the Re-Run shop, or doing compassionate care visits in our Bodmann Skilled Nursing Pavilion.

Residents of Maple Knoll Village enjoy volunteering in the Montessori Child Center on campus which provides mutually beneficial intergenerational relationships between the seniors and children.

To learn more about socialization opportunities offered, check out our social media profiles on Facebook and Instagram @mapleknollvillage for an inside look at life at Maple Knoll Village or give us a call at 513-909-7935.

Importance of Oral Health for Older Adults

It’s common knowledge that exercise and a healthy diet play crucial roles in our overall health, especially as we age. However, many people are unaware that oral health is just as important. The risk of losing our teeth increases as we age, which can lead to other health issues such as malnutrition, oral cancer and other chronic diseases. Many retired older adults do not have dental insurance because the traditional federal Medicare program does not cover routine dental care, which can discourage them from making annual dental visits. Taking care of our oral health may seem like a small issue; however, when gone unaddressed dental issues can have a large impact in our overall health.

Common Oral Health Problems in Older Adults

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, advanced aging puts older adults at risk for a number of oral health problems. While many of these issues can be treated upon early diagnosis, many of them have the potential to negatively impact our health and ability to age well. Here are a few of the most common oral health issues in older adults:

Tooth decay. According to the CDC, nearly 95 percent of all adults have had at least one cavity. While genetics can cause some individuals to become more prone to developing cavities than others, there are some other factors that can contribute to tooth decay. Older adults who take medications that cause dry mouth as a side effect, are more likely to experience tooth decay than those who do not. Saliva helps protect teeth and reduces bacteria which can ultimately protect teeth from decaying.
Gum disease. Severe gum disease can cause sore and bloody gums, difficulty chewing and tooth decay and complete loss of teeth. The CDC has reported that two in three older adults aged 65 and older have been diagnosed with gum disease. According to the Mayo Clinic, severe gum disease, also referred to as periodontitis, can cause other major health problems such as respiratory disease, rheumatoid arthritis, coronary artery disease and complexities in those with diabetes.
Tooth loss. Those who have lost their teeth may find it difficult to eat nutritious fruits and vegetables, opting instead for softer, easily swallowed foods. Unfortunately, tooth loss is extremely common in older adults. In fact, one in five adults aged 65 and older have lost all of their teeth.
Chronic disease. According to the National Institute on Aging, approximately 85 percent of older adults have at least one chronic health condition, and 60 percent have at least two chronic conditions. People with chronic conditions such as, arthritis, diabetes and heart disease are more likely to develop gum disease, but less likely to get dental care than adults without this conditions.
Pneumonia. Older adults who do not practice proper oral hygiene put themselves at risk of bacterial pneumonia, especially those who consume tobacco products. Those who have poor oral hygiene have more bacteria in their mouths, which can travel to the lungs when they breathe.

Tips for Improving Oral Health in Older Adults

A lifetime full of habits, both good and bad, can have a tremendous impact on our oral health as we age. To protect their dental health and avoid major health concerns, it’s important that older adults maintain a proper oral hygiene regimen. Here are a few simple but effective steps you can take to protect your teeth and gums:

Visit the dentist. Regularly scheduled dental visits can help address problems before they become severe. Seniors should make appointments to see their dentist twice a year or otherwise directed by their practitioner.
Brush daily. If it’s not already a daily practice, older adults should start brushing their teeth twice a day—once in the morning and once before bed. Some dentists even suggest brushing after meals, but you might consider consulting your own dentist before brushing this often. Many dentists suggest using electric toothbrushes to ensure a better clean.
Take care of your dentures and mouthguard. Dentures are expensive! Taking care of dentures is also crucial to maintaining oral health. It’s important to follow your dentist’s instructions on how to care for them properly. In addition, if your dentures give you pain or discomfort, you should see your dentist right away.

According the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the following tips can help you maintain strong teeth and a healthy mouth:

Drink fluoridated water and brush with fluoride toothpaste.
Practice good oral hygiene. Brush teeth thoroughly twice a day and floss daily between the teeth to remove dental plaque.
Visit your dentist at least once a year, even if you have no natural teeth or have dentures.
Do not use any tobacco products.
Limit alcoholic drinks.
If you have diabetes, work to maintain control of the disease. This will decrease the risk of other complications, including gum disease.
If your medication causes dry mouth, ask your doctor for a different medication that may not cause this condition. If dry mouth cannot be avoided, drink plenty of water, chew sugarless gum and avoid tobacco products.
See your doctor or a dentist if you have sudden changes in taste and smell.

Healthy Living at Maple Knoll Village

At Maple Knoll Village, health is our priority. Our UC affiliated clinic offers specialty appointments for a variety of different healthcare needs. To learn more about our clinic or to schedule a tour, contact us here.

What Community Means for Seniors

Staying social has mental, emotional and physical benefits for older adults.

Throughout our lives, we crave a sense of belonging. Studies have found that as people get older, their social capital, or connection to others, has even greater value for successful aging.

According to the National Council on Aging, social isolation can negatively impact mental performance, compromise the immune system, and increase the risk of certain diseases and depression. Research suggests that the health risks of extended periods of isolation are the equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

Older adults with a healthy social network are more active, feel more independent and enjoy more fulfilling lives. Located in the Cincinnati tristate area is Maple Knoll Village, a continuing care retirement community that provides an environment for independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing where residents feel connected and engaged.

Here are some of the top ways being a part of an active community can provide a sense of belonging and keep life lively for older adults.

1. Socializing during happy hour

Residents at Maple Knoll Village regularly mix and mingle for social events, whether it is getting out to visit a local winery, clinking steins at Oktoberfest or celebrating a birthday. If you are curious what everyday life is like in this vibrant community, the Wine Down event on November 16 at 4 p.m. invites prospective residents to take a tour, sip fine wines and enjoy a relaxed meet-and-greet with Maple Knoll Village residents and staff in their newly renovated auditorium.

2. Connecting with friends over food

Sharing meals is another way that people can gather to socialize. This October, Maple Knoll Village unveiled its newly-renovated dining spaces. The vision was to provide fresh and engaging places for residents and their guests to get together and eat delicious food. The new Bistro on the Green offers expanded seating and an updated menu, including crispy pies from the pizza oven. The Market on Main is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week offering grab-n-go convenience. It is the perfect pairing of good food and good company.

3. Inspiring each other to be creative

Along with a service window to assist with events in the auditorium, the new Market on Main has a fully equipped teaching kitchen for residents to put their aprons on and try their hand at new recipes. It is only one of the many ways Maple Knoll Village inspires creativity, lifelong learning and togetherness. Another activity that residents enjoy is the monthly Art for Everyone sessions run by local Cincinnati artist Jennifer Hall. Participants have done everything from making tile mosaics to creating irreverent blackout poetry.

4. Exercising with friends and fitness specialists

Group activities have mental, emotional and physical benefits, especially when working out and staying active. At the Hemsworth Wellness Center at Maple Knoll Village, older adults can train one-on-one with a fitness specialist to build strength and boost their ability to perform everyday activities. Residents also have the option to join group classes such as tai chi, slow flow, yoga, and aqua aerobics in the 60-foot heated pool.

5. Sharing stories

Throughout the different neighborhoods of Maple Knoll Village, all residents enjoy a worry-free lifestyle in spacious apartments and villas. They can be active, healthy and independent, while having access to special events and activities with others. It is truly a unique place to call home and even has a member-supported public radio station, WMKV 89.3FM, that serves the greater Cincinnati area. Broadcasting locally and streaming worldwide, WMKV celebrates the Golden Age of Radio with entertaining live hosts, podcasts and other events.

For older adults, having a sense of community can significantly improve quality of life. There is peace of mind in knowing you are not alone and can continue to do the things you love while meeting new people. Couples and individuals alike choose to make the Maple Knoll Village community their forever home.

Downsizing Guide for Seniors

It’s common for seniors in their sixties to consider downsizing to a smaller home or moving to a senior living community. In fact, 51% of retirees over the age of 50 move into smaller homes. However, this decision can be a difficult one. Many older adults are faced with leaving their family home and the memories that come with it. While this can be challenging, choosing to downsize can make life easier and safer for many aging adults and their families. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to successful downsizing. While some adults may choose to live on their own, others may find comfort in residing in a Continuing Care Retirement Community that offers all levels of care such as independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing. In addition to deciding where to move, older adults must also decide if the timing is right.

Is it Time to Downsize?

Older adults choose to downsize for a number of different reasons. For some, aging is expensive, and downsizing provides a viable option to cut costs and reduce monthly expenses by lowering or eliminating mortgage payments, home insurance and property taxes. For others, things like stairs, multiple levels, a large yard and long walkways can become dangerous and limit one’s ability to age in place. No matter the reason for downsizing, choosing where and when to move are complicated decisions. If you or your loved ones are contemplating downsizing, there are some basic questions that can help you decide if it’s the right time to downsize:

Do you have unused rooms in your home?
Can you afford to stay in your current home for 10 or 20 years down the road?
Is your yard easy to maintain? Can you safely complete household tasks?
Do you feel isolated?
Do you have too much stuff to manage?

At some point, you may realize that your home isn’t the safest or most economical place to age. If you have a lot of wasted space or have difficulty maintaining your family home, it could be the right time to downsize.

Where to Downsize?

There are two very common options when it comes to choosing where to downsize. Many older adults are faced with deciding between moving to a residential community or aging in place. Generally speaking, residential communities include independent living, assisted living, or nursing homes. In addition, Continuing Care Retirement Communities, such as Maple Knoll Village, offer all three types of care. In a residential community, residents are not responsible for yard work, maintenance, and do not have to make mortgage payments. Traditionally, those living in a residential community pay a monthly fee that includes utilities, housekeeping and even some meals. Most communities offer onsite medical care, memory care, and offer social activities on and off-campus.

The second option, aging in place, can be an attractive option for those wanting to live independently for as long as possible. In addition, older adults often choose to age in place when they are in excellent health or if the facilities in their area have poor reputations or are too expensive. For those aging in place with minimal needs, a smaller home with less chores may be an attractive option. However, it’s important to consider how many years they are likely to still be independent. For those with complex medical needs, aging in place can be more difficult and require hiring outside help to provide care or relying on the support of friends and family members.

Tips for Stress-Free Downsizing

Once you decide where to go, you’ll have to start the physical act of downsizing your belongings. While it may feel overwhelming, there are many ways to make downsizing feel like a manageable task. If you or a loved one has a potential downsize in the future, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Start preparing early. Downsizing always takes longer than you might think. Giving yourself plenty of time to sort and pack your items will make transitioning into a new space much easier. In addition, moving companies often need advanced notice, especially if you are moving out of state.
Prioritize communication. It’s not uncommon for adult children to notice their parents having difficulty maintaining their home. If this happens, adult children may need to approach the topic of downsizing with their parents. Adult children may consider offering to help clean out the garage or sort through items in storage. As the topic continues, it’s important for children to reassure their parents that they have a say in the matter.
Set realistic goals. Downsizing can feel like an enormous task. The key to successful downsizing is to set small and attainable goals. You may consider starting with one room or one closet at a time. Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary items like boxes, tape and markers.
Sort your items. Experts agree that sorting your items into separate categories for taking with you, gifting, selling, donating and throwing away can help you stay organized and efficient.
Keep the memories! One of the hardest parts of downsizing is having to part with precious memories and keepsakes. However, it’s possible for many items to be compressed. For example, photo albums and home movies can be stored onto DVDs or hard drives for easy storage. If you have a collection of items, consider keeping your favorites and donating the rest.

Making the Move to Maple Knoll Village

Our residents agree that one of the most difficult parts of transition into a retirement community is choosing how to downsize. However, the amenities, peace of mind, and sense of safety that comes with living at Maple Knoll Village is well worth the move. To speak learn more about life at Maple Knoll Village or to schedule a tour, please contact us at 513-782-2717.

Holiday Health Tips for Seniors

The holiday season is in full swing, which means many of us are preparing for celebrations with family, friends, and good food. The holidays present a wonderful opportunity to connect with others, but can also be a source of stress and anxiety. November and December are busy months for many of us. It’s also a time where our routines and schedules are inconsistent and diets consist of special and often heavy foods. In fact, high cholesterol, an increase in blood pressure and foods that cause inflammation in the body are common during this time. If we’re not careful, the holiday season can have a negative effect on our health—both physically and mentally. Here are a few tips to help you maintain your healthy habits throughout the holiday season.

Simple Tips for a Healthy Holiday

To help keep you healthy, reduce stress and avoid the holiday blues, you may consider implementing the following tips the next time you find yourself celebrating with family and friends.

Walk after large meals. We all know that feeling after we’ve eaten too much at a holiday brunch or dinner. While we might be tempted to nap after a large meal, taking a walk might be a better option. Moving our bodies, especially after a large meal, helps us digest our food and turn it into energy instead of storing it into fat cells.
Wash hands frequently. As we gather inside for celebrations, it’s not uncommon for colds and other wintertime illnesses to spread quickly. To decrease our risk of contracting the flu or common cold, make sure to wash your hands frequently using warm water and antibacterial soap. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer is a good option if you’re traveling or don’t have access to soap and water.
Stay hydrated. Fancy cocktails are a fun holiday treat. However, it’s best to drink in moderation and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Alcohol based drinks can cause inflammation in the joints, which can cause pain and decreased mobility. Water helps flush out toxins and helps aids in digestion.
Get quality sleep. Our bodies heal and replenish themselves while we sleep. Getting enough high-quality sleep supports basic body functions and is also important in maintaining our mental health. It’s not uncommon to veer from our normal daily routines during the holiday season, however, it’s important to maintain our sleep schedules when possible.
Maintain your exercise routine. Exercise releases endorphins, which are our body’s natural pain reliever and happiness booster. Exercise is also an important factor in maintaining balance, coordination and can help reduce healing time from injuries. So, bundle up for a walk outside or try an indoor workout you can do from the comfort of your own home.
Rest after traveling. Traveling can become more difficult as we age. Road trips and airplane rides can take a lot of energy. Make sure to get adequate rest after a travel day. This might mean skipping out on the shopping and opting for some quiet time instead.
Prioritize healthy meal options. Before you enjoy special holiday foods, make sure to consume vegetables and fruits which are high in nutrients and support optimal health.
Manage stress. The holidays can be stressful! However, it’s important to learn how to manage stress because too much of it can disrupt different function in the body including the immune and digestive systems.
Avoid contact with people who are sick. In addition to washing your hands frequently, you should also do your best to avoid those who are sick with colds or the flu. You might consider avoiding crowded places when possible or protect yourself by wearing a face mask.

Celebrating the Holidays at Maple Knoll Village

As you celebrate the holidays with family and friends, our staff at Maple Knoll Village are here to keep you safe and healthy. From the Hemsworth Wellness Center to the Bistro on the Green, we have everything it takes to make this holiday season a healthy one.

Importance of Hydration in Older Adults

Staying hydrated is an essential part of healthy aging, especially for those 65 and older. As we age, our risk of becoming dehydrated increases for a number of reasons. Foremost, our ability to conserve water decreases with age making it more difficult to stay properly hydrated. Older adults may also experience a diminished sense of thirst, which can be caused by age and even some medications. While dehydration might not seem like a major health concern, it can ultimately lead to poor health and medical outcomes, increased hospitalization and even premature death.

Symptoms of Dehydration

Dehydration is one of the ten most common causes of hospitalizations in older adults. While dehydration can look different for each individual, there are some common signs which can include headaches, constipation, muscle cramps, dry mouth and fatigue. Dark urine is also a common side effect of dehydration and can act as a good warning sign. If a person is getting enough water, their urine should be lighter in color. However, it’s important to note that some medications can interfere with urine color. Other common symptoms of dehydration can include decreased urination, dizziness, confusion, low blood pressure, cold hands and feet and increased heart rate.

Benefits of Drinking Water

Drinking enough water is a simple way to take charge of your health. While it can feel difficult at times, getting adequate hydration throughout the day actually has numerous health benefits such as improving cognition and reducing joint pain. Here are a few ways your body benefits from hydration:

Improved brain performance. According to the National Council on Aging, even mild dehydration can affect one’s memory, concentration and reaction time. Proper hydration helps stabilize your emotions and can even decrease feelings of anxiety.
Aids with digestion. Proper hydration can decrease the risk of constipation and ensure the digestive system is working properly. Water helps transport nutrients throughout the body and also allows waste products to leave.
Provides more energy. Dehydration can decrease the amount of oxygen that gets to the brain, causing your heart to work harder and ultimately making you feel more tired. By drinking more water, you’ll prevent dehydration and feel more energized throughout the day.
Decreased joint pain. The cartilage in our joints is actually made up of 80% water. Staying hydrated throughout the day can increase lubrication in our joints, reducing friction between the bones.
Regulates temperature. Our bodies store more heat when we’re dehydrated, which lowers the ability to tolerate warm temperatures. Dehydration also prevents our bodies from being able to sweat when we overheat, putting us at great risk of heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses.
Prevents kidney stones. Kidney stones develop when mineral crystals form within the urinary tract. Kidney stones can be extremely painful to pass and can cause complications if gone unaddressed. Staying hydrated helps dilute the minerals found within the urinary tract, which helps prevent kidney stones from developing.

Tips for Staying Hydrated

Drinking water isn’t the only way to stay hydrated. In addition to consuming water, there are a number of different ways we can stay hydrated from the foods we eat. In fact, most fruits and vegetables have a high water content. Watermelon, strawberries, cantaloupe and oranges are great sources of hydration and have added fiber and nutrients that also boost immune function. Eating soups and smoothies with your meals will also help you consume water in a more fun and filling way. Adding raspberries, lemons and cucumbers can make drinking water feel like a treat.

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