Senior Living Blog by UMH

Marissa Salvesen

My journey into the world of senior living began when I started working for United Methodist Homes in 2010. Starting as an Activities Director at one of our-winning assisted and independent living communities and then transitioning to Marketing and Promotions Manager for UMH, I now work as the Manager of Mission Development, fostering the Mission and Values of our organization. I love sharing stories about the many ways we build meaningful relationships and enrich the lives of those we serve, and am proud to be part of building UMH’s 140-year legacy of caring. Wondering what makes our communities such special places to live and work? Connect with me and find out!

Hidden-Gem Activities that Stimulate & Engage Seniors for More Vibrant Living

By: Marissa Salvesen September 12th, 2023

As we age, it's crucial to explore activities that not only cater to our physical well-being, but also nurture our mental and emotional health. While classics like walking, puzzles and gentle exercises hold their value, there are also some very unique, sometimes overlooked activities that can add a whole new dimension to seniors' lives. Here, we’re uncovering some hidden gems that have the potential to stimulate and engage seniors in ways they might not have considered.

Award-Winning Articles on Aging Well

By: Marissa Salvesen September 7th, 2023

Healthy aging is influenced by many factors in our lifestyle and especially over the last few decades, research has revealed several habits we can incorporate to positively impact our own aging experience. Along with this comes the idea of “aging well” or the concept of “successful aging,” both terms that can mean various things to various people. In general, however, the idea of optimizing one’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being throughout the senior years has great appeal. Throughout the last year, we took a deeper dive into this topic in our UMH blog by highlighting seven different aspects of aging well, beginning with the ever-important element of nutrition and ending with the theme of living one’s unique purpose.

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Unlocking the Freedom of Downsizing to a Senior Living Community

By: Marissa Salvesen August 16th, 2023

Life is a journey marked by transitions, a series of chapters each holding its own unique story. As time moves forward and the years gracefully accumulate, many seniors find themselves facing a pivotal decision: the shift from a long-held family home to a more streamlined living space within a senior living community. While downsizing might seem like a daunting task at first, a closer look reveals a path rich with practical advantages and a sense of liberation. For seniors and their families, this transition offers a chance to embrace change and rediscover a new kind of freedom.

Downsizing for Seniors: How to Make the Move Easier

By: Marissa Salvesen July 17th, 2023

Downsizing to a senior living community offers numerous advantages that enhance the quality of life for older adults. From reduced maintenance and enhanced social opportunities to safety and security, access to amenities, and other supports for overall well-being, these communities are designed with seniors in mind. But even though this change in lifestyle can be a highly worthwhile one, the move itself is certainly overwhelming for many older adults. Following are some helpful, practical tips on how to make this moving experience easier.

7 Sweet Activities for Seniors to Embrace the Joys of Summer

By: Marissa Salvesen June 8th, 2023

As we round out the springtime months, the imminent arrival of summer brings with it a vibrant atmosphere and a multitude of opportunities for people of all ages to engage in enjoyable activities. For seniors, it’s a particularly ideal time to get out of the indoors and engage in delightful summer pastimes with a host of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. From vitamin D absorption to enhanced mood and social interaction, the summer presents plenty of options for basking in the sweet joys of the outdoors. Let’s take a dive into the world of summer fun with the following senior-friendly activities perfect for generating joy and creating worthwhile memories.

Research Findings that Underscore the Benefits of Senior Living

By: Marissa Salvesen May 9th, 2023

The possibility of moving out of one’s home is not always a welcome idea for seniors, but planning for the future or considering the best alternatives for current day-to-day challenges is incredibly important for older adults. While there are plenty of fears and assumptions that may have some seniors overlooking the concept of a senior living community, the truth is there is a host of research that underscores the benefits of this option. According to the National Institute on Aging, there are a number of factors that influence healthy aging—and while not all of them are within our control (like genetics), many of them can be impacted by the decisions we make. Join us as we explore some of the interesting research supported by NIA and others, which identifies these crucial points of healthy aging. In addition, learn how these elements are well-supported by the benefits of senior living communities.

Breaking Down the Benefits of a Continuum Community for Seniors

By: Marissa Salvesen April 10th, 2023

Also referred to as a continuing care retirement community or life plan community, a continuum community for seniors has been described as “a long-term care option for older people who want to stay in the same place through different phases of the aging process… They offer different types of housing and care levels based on an older adult’s needs and how they change.” Continuum communities for seniors provide opportunities for residents to embrace a healthier, more vibrant and less worrisome quality of life. This might look like a resident starting out living independently in an apartment, then transitioning to assisted living when additional help with daily activities is needed, to skilled nursing when more medical care is a requirement or to specialized memory care when Alzheimer’s or dementia symptoms emerge. All of these changes in care occur while the resident remains within the same community.

Senior Living Communities Vs. Nursing Homes: Do You Know the Difference?

By: Marissa Salvesen March 14th, 2023

When people hear the term “senior living,” many quickly lump it into the same category as “nursing home.” In fact, these phrases are sometimes used interchangeably, further promoting the misconception that the two very distinct options are basically the same. The truth, however, is that the array of living choices available for seniors today is both wide and varied, and there are some fundamental differences between senior living communities and nursing homes.

5 Creative Activities to Help Keep Your Elderly Loved One Engaged

By: Marissa Salvesen February 7th, 2023

As the winter months can have a dramatic effect on a senior’s well-being, it’s important to ensure that elderly loved ones are staying engaged and active in their everyday lives. And even though this particular time of year has a way of limiting a senior’s activities, there’s no threshold on creativity. So if the weather or other circumstances are putting a pin in your loved one’s usual outlets for engagement, consider turning their attention to the arts.

How a Senior Living Community Helps Navigate the Pitfalls of Winter

By: Marissa Salvesen January 12th, 2023

In lockstep with the winter season’s dropping temperatures comes the potential for snowy or icy conditions, plus a litany of often overlooked negative impacts on seniors’ health and well-being. And with every winter charm, there’s an equally challenging reality for older adults as they navigate this chilly time of year. Here are several of the most common effects on seniors during the winter months—and how a senior living community does wonders to offset these challenges.

Festive Senior-Friendly Activities for a Jolly Holiday Season

By: Marissa Salvesen December 14th, 2022

Bells are ringing, children are singing and Santa’s on his way! It’s that time of year when the air is alive with joy and excitement for the Christmas holiday and other seasonal celebrations. For some seniors, this holiday may look a bit different from years past. There may be emerging health issues, a change in environment, a loss of a loved one, or any other challenge that makes it difficult to feel as merry as one might like. For others, there may be gleeful anticipation for embracing all the season has to offer. Whatever you or the senior in your life is feeling this month, we want to help infuse some cheer—with the following senior-friendly activities that are sure to engage the mind and soul.