On August 2, 2019, my Mom, Frances, gained her wings. She had spent the last 6 years of her life at Lake Forest Park, her last 5 months in Memory Care. I would like to express my sincere thanks and appreciation to the Staff. They are all truly phenomenal caregivers. From the receptionist, to the hairdresser to the laundry staff, to housekeeping, to maintenance, to the kitchen staff. They are all just such wonderful, caring people. I have to mention here the extremely kind gesture from the kitchen staff who came to mom's room to see her just before she passed. Mom ...passed soon after. Just after the Crisis Care nurse called me, she held the phone to Mom's ear and I got to tell her for the last time that I loved her, and my 2 sisters loved her. One half-hour into my drive over to see her, she passed but heard those last words "I Love You". Also, I want to give a big thanks to Ryan, Virginia, and Stephanie who made sure mom was taken to any activities she was able to take part in. Last, but not least, the kind, caring and loving nursing staff who treated Mom as if she was a member of their own family. All the CNA's (sorry I have forgotten names and apologize) are all exceptional people whom I've gotten to know and love. It meant the world to me and my family. Again, thanks to all. I will never forget your kindness to me. It is absolute proof that angels walk among us. I will keep you all in my prayers, and may God bless you abundantly.
Show MoreLessThe Best Medicine is Laughter Back
You have always heard people say that laughter is the best medicine but now there is proof. Loma Linda University did a study to find out if there was a benefit for adults ages 60 – 70 years. They had their stress level and short-term memory measured in the study. They were put in two groups. One sat silently unable to communicate at all or even read. The other group watched a fun array of videos.
The participants gave saliva samples and took short memory test after 20 minutes in their groups. The study revealed that the group who laughed performed a great deal better in the memory recall
category and had higher improvement in their ability to recall. The group that laughed showed lower levels of cortisol (meaning they were less stressed) from watching the funny videos. Other interesting findings by the researchers at Loma Linda University in California is that laughing can lower blood pressure, reduces stress hormone levels, tones your abs, improves your cardiac health, boosts T cells, triggers the release of endorphins (which helps ease pain) and produces a general sense of well-being! Now, that is no laughing matter!
It is recommended that older adults watch something humorous on TV at least 20 minutes a day! Laughter can be the long-term medication you have needed.
Find a funny TV series, a funny friend, go to a funny movie or comedy show… whatever you choose – just enjoy the laugher and better health!
“Knock Knock”
“Who’s there?”
“Orange”
“Orange who?”
“Orange you happy you read this blog?”
Okay, so maybe you want to find something funnier than that!