Senior Living Blog by UMH

Elizabeth Bemis

In 1998, I drove past an assisted living community construction site, learned that it was part of United Methodist Homes and realized the next stop on my professional journey was to work for a mission driven organization. Soon after, I joined the team as Executive Director of our Middlewoods of Farmington community and later served as Regional Manager for the Middlewoods properties before accepting my current role as Vice President of Marketing, Promotions, and Assisted Living Operations. I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking, reading, walking, and love working alongside our staff, residents, and families to build strong communities that reflect the mission, vision, and values of United Methodist Homes.

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Social Isolation Series, Part 2: Helping Seniors Stay Connected

By: Elizabeth Bemis April 10th, 2020

In our last post, Social Isolation Series, Part 1: Identifying Triggers for Loneliness in Seniors, we introduced the need to address some of the most pressing challenges facing seniors during the current global health crisis and widespread isolation measures. With acute loneliness endangering both the mental and physical health of older adults, it’s important to focus on getting the information you and your loved ones need to navigate this difficulty effectively.

10 Stimulating Activities for the Elderly

By: Elizabeth Bemis March 12th, 2020

Feeling like the senior in your life has slowly slumped into a daily rut? It’s certainly common for elderly adults to develop a routine that eventually dulls their spirit and negatively impacts their physical and mental health. But there’s good news: You can introduce a whole host of stimulating activities to help improve your aging loved one’s quality of life.

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What Every Senior Needs to Know about Heart Health

By: Elizabeth Bemis February 12th, 2020

People aged 65 and older are much more likely than younger people to suffer a heart attack, have a stroke or develop coronary heart disease and heart failure, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Institute on Aging (NIH). Heart disease is the number-one cause of death in the United States, and the NIH indicates that it’s a major cause of disability, which can limit activity and erode quality of life for millions of seniors.

Expert Insights for Seniors Battling the Winter Blues

By: Elizabeth Bemis February 12th, 2020

It is all too common for seniors to experience feelings of sadness and loneliness during the cold and dark winter months. If you or an aging loved one are finding it difficult to overcome the winter blues this season, you are certainly not alone. With less daylight, declining temperatures and the dangers associated with getting out during periods of snow and ice, it’s no wonder so many seniors undergo the effects of cabin fever and other mood-depleting factors.

Top Cognitive Games and Mental Exercises for Seniors

By: Elizabeth Bemis January 14th, 2020

It is never too late to help your aging loved one focus on their cognitive health and improve their brain function. While it’s certainly true that age plays a major role in the decline of memory and other cognitive abilities, studies show there are proven ways to work on maintaining and enhancing these capabilities at any age.

Winter Activities for Seniors: Embracing the Season - Indoors and Out

By: Elizabeth Bemis January 14th, 2020

As temperatures drop and colder weather settles in for the season, it can be easy to slip into a state of boredom. For seniors, in particular, it’s important to head off the winter blues with an array of enjoyable events and activities. Staying engaged and active is a critical component of maintaining positive health and well-being in the later years of life.

Supporting Seniors with Depression During the Holidays

By: Elizabeth Bemis December 11th, 2019

For lots of us, the holidays are a time of immense joy and excitement. From the sounds of spirited carols to the smells and sights of longstanding holiday traditions, there’s much to celebrate during this special season.

Best Holiday Movies for Seniors

By: Elizabeth Bemis December 11th, 2019

The calendar doesn’t need to be turned to December for you to enjoy holiday or winter-themed movies! These feel-good flicks are great to put on any time, especially for seniors in assisted living communities. A movie marathon is one of many great winter activities. Here’s our list of favorite holiday movies for seniors.

What to Look for in a Memory Care Community

By: Elizabeth Bemis November 12th, 2019

Do you or a senior loved one need to find a memory care community? Seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia have specific needs that often can’t be met when they live at home. Fortunately, memory care communities are designed specifically for those seniors’ needs in mind.

Why You Should Make the Move to Senior Living Sooner Rather than Later

By: Elizabeth Bemis November 12th, 2019

Are you considering making the move to a senior living community? For seniors who face memory or health challenges, it’s better to move to senior living now rather than putting the transition off. In fact, before you face physical challenges, you should consider making the move. Here are a few reasons it’s a smart decision to move to a senior living community as soon as possible.

Staying Hydrated - Not Just a Summer Problem

By: Elizabeth Bemis September 24th, 2019

With warm weather and time in the sun, staying hydrated is challenging for everyone, especially seniors but many don’t realize they can become dehydrated at any time during the year. Dehydration is a common cause of hospitalization, especially in the summer months. Although the warm season is a time to be on guard for dehydration, this could be a potential risk at any time of the year. That’s why it’s so important to keep an eye out for signs of dehydration in yourself if you’re a senior, or in a parent or senior loved one, if you’re a caregiver.