January 2016 Events in Sharon, PA: Welcome New Beginnings

Happy New Year! January is the time when we all welcome new beginnings and set resolutions to make this year better than the last. But how does one keep those resolutions throughout the year ahead? The New York Times offers four suggestions: First, make a concrete plan, something visual to embed it to memory. Second, put something you value on the line – is it your health or your pocketbook – keep that in mind when you are tempted to break your resolution. Third, bundle your temptations. For instance, you want to exercise more, but struggle getting to the gym and you also have a fondness for gossip magazines but feel they are a waste of time. Combine the two – read the magazines only at the gym! And fourth, seek social support. You can achieve more by pursuing goals with the help of a mentor.

Still haven’t made any resolutions? Resolve to join us every month for a wide variety of events and activities. This month we explore our creativity through music with outings to local musical performances, Elvis’ birthday celebrations and concerts by our Joyful Noise Choir. We invite you to Welcome New Beginnings and make regular visits to Juniper Village part of your new year’s goals!

Our fabulous January 2016 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn include our:

§  Welcome New Beginnings Open House as we have been busy making our building look warm and cozy with new carpeting throughout and renovations to our beauty salon being just a few of our recent updates, so we welcome you to stop in and see what we have been up to while you enjoy a food station by our Chef Nathan, beverages, entertainment, and tours, plus free giveaways throughout the day, so please join us on January 20th from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

We look forward to sharing our January 2016 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn with you as we Welcome New Beginnings.

Christmas Gifts

Alesha Stefanak and Amanda Haggerty both of Southern Care Hospice made one resident’s Christmas at Juniper Village a little brighter this year.  Margaret Smith was thrilled to receive several wrapped gifts this year for Christmas.  “Many times our seniors are forgotten about and we are blessed to have Southern Care bring a smile to Margaret’s face this Christmas,” Christa Cicuto of Juniper Village stated.

Spirit of the Season

Spreading Christmas Cheer and helping a good cause, annually Community Relations Director, Christa Cicuto donates her time to help ring the bell for the Salvation Army.  Being a Red Kettle Volunteer has become a holiday tradition and it’s nice to help our local Salvation Army unit raise funds to support our local services.

December 2015 Events in Sharon, PA: Celebrate Little Things

This month is all about celebrations! Not only will we be celebrating holidays such as Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa and New Year’s Eve, but we will also celebrate the little things that make life worthwhile. Little things such as the reassuring touch of a friend’s hand, a kind word from an acquaintance and a warm smile from a stranger.

In our all too busy lives we sometimes forget to honor the simple things in life that bring us peace and joy. Most experts recommend that we allow 10-20 minutes of relaxation and stress relief each day. Making time for that can even be a stressful experience! During this busy month of baking, shopping, visitors and juggling tasks take time to remember what is really important.

Here are some tips to keep holiday stress in check: Acknowledge your feelings – you are not alone as holiday stress is not uncommon. Be realistic with expectations – you can only do so much, learn to say no. Ask for help when needed – everyone wants to be needed and may feel more included by being able to contribute. Plan ahead to minimize unplanned expenses and tasks. Take a breather – take a walk at night and do some stargazing, listen to soothing music, or get a massage. Above all enjoy all the holidays have to offer by sharing time with others.

Join us during the busy month of December for our annual cookie exchange and holiday celebrations. Take time to Celebrate Little Things with those you love.

Our fabulous December 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn include our:

§  Community Holiday Breakfast to join us in celebrating the holiday with love and laughter as well as, a delicious buffet breakfast for the family with a special visit from Mrs. Claus who will read the children stories, and a coloring contest, plus elves who will help you write your letters to Santa and even make reindeer food, so come celebrate the season with good friends and good cheer on December 12^th at 10:00 am. (RSVP to 724-347-4000.)

We look forward to sharing our December 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn with you as we Celebrate Little Things.

Twilight Wish of Mercer County

The Twilight Wish of Mercer County had many supporters come out for the Laugh out Loud fundraiser event this past October at Juniper Village.  Guests enjoyed a buffet dinner, drinks, a Chinese auction and entertainment.  Delores, was the guest of honor, as her special wish was granted in front of all that attended.  Her wish was to see Stevie Wonder in concert and Twilight Wish made that wish come true!

Halloween Celebrations at the Shenango Inn!

Halloween is always complete at Juniper Village at the Shenango Inn, with an annual parade from local school children dressed in their Halloween costumes.  A tradition that occurs each year, as the residents gather outside to watch the dressed up children pass by.  The Sharon High School band plays while the children follow behind.  Waves from both the children and our residents are always heart-warming to see. Afterwards, residents and families gather in the community room to satisfy their sweet tooth, with an array of goodies to munch on.  Staff dressed up in a pirate theme, which the residents really enjoyed.  Happy Halloween from everyone at Juniper Village at the Shenango Inn.

November 2015 Events in Sharon, PA: Cherish The Journey

Family is a simple word, with complex meaning. To some family is the people you are related to by blood, but to some family is the people you choose to hold in high regard, and to others family isn’t people at all, but animals – our beloved pets.

Regardless of the definition, family plays an important role in our personal journey. As the saying goes, “Family is what you make it.” Whether made of blood relatives, friends, colleagues or pets, your family can offer you the support you need to thrive.

This month we celebrate family and reflect on our personal journeys while creating new memories for the future. Join us as we reminisce about these journeys through autobiographical journaling. Plan to share with those less fortunate through our annual food drive from November 1-30 with all non-perishable food items being donated to a local food bank. Also interact and share with others through our community support groups, and know that you are not alone. Throughout the month we will also be hosting several family events as we celebrate family and give thanks. We encourage you to review our calendar and join us for any or all of our events and Cherish The Journey!

Our fabulous November 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn include our:

§  Veterans Day Luncheon for a complimentary meal to help us cherish and thank our Veterans with a tasty meal that is free for Veterans and their spouses on November 11^th at 12:30 pm.

We look forward to sharing our November 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn with you as we Cherish The Journey.

October 2015 Events in Sharon, PA: Show Your Colors

Every October we turn our Alive in All Seasons focus to holidays and sports as we “Keep the Spirit” during this last celebratory quarter of the year. Sporting events are inevitably part of that celebration for many families.

According to Dr. Renee Clauselle, founder of Child and Family Psychology, “Bonding over sports — the highs and lows of the game — strengthens ties, helps us feel supported, and makes it easier for you to open up about personal things.” Think of sports as an opportunity to connect with others over a favorite – or even rival – team and learn more about each other. Even strangers can learn more about where they grew up, which teams they support, which sports they played and how those sports are different today. You may even learn something about your loved ones that you never knew. Perhaps great-grandma played softball in a women’s league during college. That would be something to pass along to future generations! Watching a sporting event can become so much more than plays and scores; it can become an opportunity to learn the history of someone you love.

Join us this month and “Show Your Colors” as we sponsor a local sports team, get into the spirit of the season with our Halloween Costume Party and honor those associates who go above and beyond with our annual Juniper Spirit Awards.

Our fabulous October 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn include our:

§  Comedy Night Dinner for Twilight Wish of Mercer County to raise money for needy and deserving elders who are actively dying in our community; cost is $40 for a ticket which includes, show, full buffet dinner and two beverages of choice beer or wine, and a Chinese Auction will also be available, so don’t miss this fun night out for a great cause on October 15^th at 6:00 pm. (RSVP to 724-347-4000.)

We look forward to sharing our October 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn with you as we Show Your Colors.

Treasure the Memories of Friends

Juniper Village at the Shenango Inn celebrated National Assisted Living week with the residents and their friends and families with a, “Friendship Luncheon”.  A dessert bar was set up in the activities room, where Chef Nathan Reed prepared an array of deserts, including, mini caramel apples, chocolate cupcakes, mini lemon cheesecakes and mini cappuccino cheesecakes.  Juniper even welcomed in our furry friends to come and celebrate with us!  “Friends are the most important part of your life, treasure the tears, laughter, but most importantly the memories” – Author Unknown.

September 13 – 19 is National Assisted Living Week

Understand the senior living options available

This year, National Assisted Living Week’s theme is Nourishing Life: Mind, Body and Spirit and celebrates the countless ways assisted living caregivers nurture the whole resident. This has been the basis of Juniper Village at the Shenango Inn’s mission since we began and is certainly a goal of the industry.

With the percentage of the U.S. population over age 65 steadily increasing, it is important to understand the many options available in specialized residences and the level of care they provide for the growing and varied needs of seniors.

In addition to the type of community, it is equally important to find one that offers compassionate care, unparalleled access to healthcare – preferably onsite, programming that will stimulate you such as Music & Memory, and a commitment to continued improvement.

Personal Care/Assisted Living residences are for seniors who require the least amount of care. Meals are provided along with assistance in medication management, bathing, and dressing, if needed. Housekeeping and laundry services may also be available. Community social activities or outings may be offered, and depending on their preferences and budgets, residents may have the option of choosing a private room or a shared apartment.

Although some Assisted Living residences may provide services for seniors with cognitive impairment, a Memory Care residence is a specialized community for patients with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Providing 24-hour supervision and security, the Memory Care environment is designed to meet the unique challenges of Alzheimer’s patients.

A Skilled Nursing Care residence, sometimes known as a nursing home, provides the highest level of care for its residents as well as round-the-clock availability of medical care. Seniors in these communities may be incontinent or require assistance with eating, walking, and moving about the bed.  Skilled Nursing Care residences usually provide long-term care for seniors who are too sick or frail for other types of residences.

In recognition of National Assisted Living Week, remember, when independent living becomes too difficult, moving into a senior living community that offers appropriate levels of care based on an individual’s need can often be the best solution.

Buhl Day Parade

The Annual Buhl Day parade on Labor Day, that began back in 1916 here in Sharon, Pa, went off with a bang!  It was a beautifully hot, sunny day for the residents of Juniper Village at the Shenango Inn who enjoyed watching  the local marching bangs, community groups, fire trucks and more pass by.  It was special for each of them that attended to see a grandchild or other family member, that was performing in the parade.   And of course catching some sweet tasting candy was a bonus for all!  

September 2015 Events in Sharon, PA: Spread Your Joy

As the air begins to cool and summer wanes, Juniper Village ends our “Stay Connected” series by recognizing Friendship and Joy. What is it that brings you joy? Is it the wet nose of a newborn pup? The smile of your first grandchild? The taste of a triple chocolate ice cream cone? Whatever it is we invite you to share that joy with others at Juniper Village this month.

Much attention has been paid to studies regarding the effects of stress on your health, but what about the effects of joy? The landmark “Nun Study,” as it's often known, revealed that positive emotion is correlated with longevity: 90% of the most cheerful quarter of nuns was alive at the age of eighty-five, whereas only 34% of the least cheerful quarter lived to that age. Similarly, 54% of the most cheerful fourth was alive at age ninety-four, versus 11% of the least cheerful. Of the 678 sisters in the original study about four dozen are still living. So go ahead, grab that triple chocolate cone it might just extend your life!

This month we invite you to “Spread Your Joy” as we honor our friendships in our Red Hat and Villager clubs and our Best Friends events; get our hands dirty at our Friendship Daffodil Project; and celebrate with our Birthday Party and House Warming Initiatives.

Our fabulous September 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn include our:

§  Healthy Chat with Genesis Rehab with our theme of Get Hip Don’t Slip as we learn more about ways to prevent falls especially during the winter months on September 2^nd at 3:00 pm.

§  Buhl Labor Day Parade Festivities as we enjoy this break from our labors and watch the marching bands and other revelers on September 7^th at 9:30 am.

§  Friendship Family Luncheon to enjoy a nice delicious meal with family and friends on September 17^th at noon.

§  Phil Crosson Magic Show for surprising and whimsical entertainment featuring slight-of-hand tricks of the trade on September 17^th at 6:00 pm.

§  Van Trip to Apple Castle as we celebrate the coming fall season in traditional fashion with fresh tasty treats and warm fellowship on September 22^nd at 1:00 pm.

We look forward to sharing our September 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn with you as we Spread Your Joy.

Juniper Village at the Shenango Inn: Your Partner for Successful Outcomes

We want to be your partner of choice in the new shared savings environment. At Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn, we have been collecting critical data for nearly 10 years. For example, we closely monitor residents to assure successful returns from either the hospital or rehabilitation setting.

The ability to manage pressure ulcers is key to minimizing hospitalizations. Low rates of facility acquired pressure ulcers are the result of a high level of wellness/clinical oversight and an indicator of quality care and service.

Another common cause of both initial hospitalizations and rehospitalizations is medication errors. Changes to medication regime whether after a scheduled physician appointment or emergency hospitalization can leave patients confused about what medications are most current. Our wellness team is responsible for medication reconciliation and management, a process which virtually eliminates medication errors.

Communication is key and Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn takes communication to the next level through:
• Use of Electronic Health Records (Point Click Care)
• Optimized care transitions protocols
• Full implementation of INTERACT (Interventions to Reduce Acute Care Transfers)
• Use of a highly recognizable and consistent transfer information packet
• Focus on resident and care giver education and engagement
• Individualized care and service

August 2015 Events in Sharon, PA: Breathe in Life

As we continue our summer focus on Staying Connected, we devote our August 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village in The Shenango Inn to connecting to the Environment. One of our Signature Programs is the Green Canopy Program. This program is designed to support healthier living for our residents and staff through environmentally conscious communities and events. This program directly supports this month’s focus on the environment and our vision to make the world a better place, a place where each of us can live fully throughout all seasons of life.

Margaret Mead reminds us that “We won't have a society if we destroy the environment.” To that end, Juniper Village has created Green Teams in each of our communities to support our environmental initiatives by assisting with our recycling and energy efficiency programs – such as using CFL light bulbs and Energy Star rated appliances, while making suggestions for additional programs to increase quality of life and promote sustainability in our communities. Have you met your Juniper Village Green Team? This month during our August 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn our Green Teams will share their mission with the greater community by heading up initiatives to help others learn how to live a more sustainable life through our Wide-Scale Recycling Programs, our Environmental Stability Program and the Implantation of our Green Teams. Stop in for one of our educational programs, recycling and upcycling events or anything else that strikes your fancy this month with our August 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn as we Breathe in Life!

Our fabulous August 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn include our:

§  Sharon Fire Department Fundraiser with a spaghetti dinner plus a Chinese Auction and 50/50 drawing with all monies raised going directly to the Sharon Fire Department to help them purchase a new Fire Truck on August 6^th at 5:00 pm. (RSVP to 724-347-4000.)

§  Sip n’ Paint to benefit our local Alzheimer’s Association with Wonderstruck from Canfield, OH, who will provide all the materials and instruction while wine, cheese and crackers are served for the cost of $40 and payment is due at time of reservation on August 31^st at 6:00 pm. (RSVP to 724-347-4000.)

We look forward to sharing our August 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn with you as we Breathe in Life.

Paint and Sip Event

The Twilight Wish Foundation of Mercer County held a Paint and Sip event at Juniper Village at the Shenango Inn, raising money for their elder community.  Twilight Wish is an organization that grants wishes to seniors age 68 and above that may not have the financial means.  Such wishes include anything from hearing aides to a new television or even a trip to somewhere special.  Fifty five generous people came out to the event last night, which helped to raise more wishes for future senior recipients.   The next Twilight Wish fundraiser event will be October 8^th at Juniper Village; it will be a Comedy Dinner Night.  For more information about events held at Juniper Village, please contact Christa Cicuto at 724-347-4000.

July 2015 Events in Sharon, PA: Stand in Integrity

With our July 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn this month we kick off our summer quarter Alive In All Seasons theme “Stay Connected” where we will strive to stay connected to the community and the environment. Throughout July we will focus on staying connected to our community through Volunteerism, where we Stand In Integrity. The biggest and most visible benefit of volunteering is the impact on the community. Unpaid volunteers work magic in unifying communities. Through volunteer work you are able to connect with your community on a deeper level and help to make it a better place to live and grow. But what we don’t always realize is that volunteering is a two-way street. Volunteers benefit as much as the causes they support. Through volunteering you make new friends, expand your professional, social and support networks and boost your social skills. So, give it a try and experience the benefits of giving of yourself.

If you are looking for opportunities to share your time, check with our Connections Directors to see what opportunities we have, or join us in one of our volunteer projects. Also plan to join us during our July 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn as we recognize our Ambassador Program, focus on our Resident Computer Center and training or any other calendar item that catches your eye.

Our fabulous July 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn include our:

§  Juniper Family and Friends Picnic for terrific music, great food and fun in the sun while as a special treat we will be holding a dueling chefs BBQ contest, so come over and vote for the best food at this complimentary event that we welcome you to attend on July 11^th at noon. (RSVP to 724-347-4000)

§  Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast for all those that have generously given up their time and effort for the people of Mercer County or the Shenango Valley community as Chef Nathan Reed will be serving up a complimentary specialty pancake breakfast with all the fixings on July 22^nd at 8:30 am. (RSVP to 724-347-4000)

We look forward to sharing our July 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn with you as we Stand in Integrity.

Shenango Chamber Honors Businesses with Phoenix Awards

The Shenango Valley is alive, well and growing stronger. That was the theme voiced Thursday by Robert McCracken, executive director of the Shenango Valley Chamber of Commerce.

McCracken addressed a “record crowd” of 200 at the seventh annual Phoenix awards held at the Corinthian. “It’s an opportunity to showcase a number of our employers in the market,” he said.

McCracken pointed to the seven honored as examples of the strength of the Shenango Valley’s rebounding economy and its diversity.

“It really is a great sampling,” he said of the six businesses and one nonprofit that received awards. “The one common trait among everyone being honored here is they’re all entrepreneurs.”

The Phoenix awards were created in 2009 as a way to recognize companies growing in Mercer County.

...

Receiving the award for growth in the large-service category was Juniper Village at the Shenango Inn.

“We service elderly adults who need assistance with activities for daily living,” said Christa Cicuto, “Created in 1988, Founder and President Lynne Katzmann had just a vision for our senior living community, now 27 years later Juniper Village at the Shenango Inn is one of 18 communities with over 1200 employees and we keep growing bigger and stronger year after year.”

...

Read the full story by Michael Moliterno from The Business Journal.

June 2015 Events in Sharon, PA: Live in Wellness

We close this quarter’s theme of Healthy Aging: “Let Wellbeing Thrive” with a focus on Food, as we Live in Wellness through our June 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn. Hippocrates advises, “Let food be thy medicine”. Research shows that eating a well-planned, balanced mix of foods every day has many health benefits such as reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, bone loss, some kinds of cancer, and anemia. But, food has other benefits. There are also emotional needs that are satisfied by food. Most of us have fond memories of food from days gone by. Whether it was our mom's homemade chocolate chip cookies, a hotdog from a street vendor or our wedding cake, food has a way of transporting us back to the past. It is in that spirit that Juniper’s dining program is called the H’art and Soul of Dining. The philosophy is that we impart spirited service, companionship and nourishment through the sharing of good food. In addition to meeting our resident’s unique nutritional needs, we also meet their emotional and social needs as well.

Join us for our June 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn to share in our hydration program, complete with healthy snacks and learn more about healthy food and wellness with our dietitian presentations as we continue to Live in Wellness.

Our fabulous June 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn include our:

§  Breakfast in a Bag a complimentary event that is our way of saying thank you to our Shenango Valley Community, so drive over to Juniper Village at the Shenango Inn for a delicious way to start your day because Chef Nathan Reed will be cooking hot breakfast sandwiches as one of the breakfast in a bag food items on June 17^th from 7:30 am to 9:00 am. (Place you order at 724-347-4000.)

We hope to see you at one or more of our June 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn!

2015 Juniper Leadership Conference Awards

Juniper celebrated its 27^th anniversary this year.  Each year communities are honored for their achievements in critical operational and financial areas.

Awards were presented at the 2015 Juniper Leadership Conference, held this year in Baltimore’s historic inner harbor.  Awards were presented by Lynne Katzmann, founder and CEO of Juniper Communities, and Diane Byrne, Vice President of Program, Development, Training & Operational Oversight.

At the recent Juniper leadership conference, Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn was presented the Juniper Referral Outreach Award in recognition of achieving the highest number of physician referrals in 2014.

May 2015 Events in Sharon, PA: Grow Strong Daily

Fitness is on our mind during our May 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn with our Alive In All Seasons theme “Grow Strong Daily”. As you know, physical activity is good for you both physically and mentally. Regular physical activity can help you to continue to do the things you love and stay independent as you age. Exercise can reduce the risk of developing some diseases and reduce symptoms of some chronic conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and balance issues.

But, if exercise has not been a part of your daily routine how do you take that first step? Start by making it fun! Turn a walk around the block into a scavenger hunt – search for daffodils, birds, squirrels or lucky pennies. Instead of a dip in the pool, create an adventure as you pretend to swim with the dolphins. Rather than send your co-worker an email, walk to her office and communicate face to face, double the benefit with a smile! What’s important is to make it fun and just start – today!

 

Join us for our May 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn as we will Grow Strong Daily with Fitness Five, and walk “cross country” with our Route 66 Walking Program and learn more about keeping our hearts fit at our Healthy Heart Luncheon. We look forward to sharing these and many other activities with you this month. Peruse this month’s calendar, and we will see you soon!

Our fabulous May 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn include our:

§  Cinco de Mayo Resident Luncheon celebrating with a Mexican flair including festive music and enticing food on May 5^th at noon.

§  Mother’s Day Family Tea Celebration honoring our beloved moms with traditional beverages and delectable refreshments on May 10^th at 2:00 pm.

§  Storytelling with Miss Victoria as we listen to tales of adventure and intrigue, loyalty and friendship with one of our favorite entertainers on May 19^th at 2:00 pm.

§  Van Trip to the Senior Center to allow residents to connect with others in our surrounding neighborhood and access resources outside our community on May 21^st at 9:30 am.

§  Patriotic Social honoring those who have served our country and made positive contributions to our freedoms and quality of life on May 25^th at 2:30 pm.

We hope to see you at one or more of our May 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn!

Select Group of Nurses Honored in Mercer County at Juniper Village at Shenango

As Reported by WKBN 27 News

Nurses who deal with domestic and sexual violence were honored Thursday morning at a breakfast at Juniper Village at the Shenango Inn in Sharon.

Pennsylvania’s former first lady, Michelle Ridge, was in attendance. It was hosted by Aware, Mercer County’s Domestic and Sexual Violence Victim Services Agency.

The 17 nurses honored are known as Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners, or SANE. They are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

They deal with both adult and child rape victims and are certified in forensics. When a domestic violence or sexual assault victim goes to the emergency room at Sharon Regional Hospital, UPMC in Sharon and Farrell or Grove City Medical Center, the trained nurses respond.

“They provide compassionate care. They also do the forensic evaluation to help the police and the prosecutor do the investigation to remove sex offenders from our community,” Lizette Olsen of Mercer County Aware said.

Mercer County’s rape response team is the only program like it in the state and is paid for through grant funding.

Easter Bunny Breakfast at Shenango

Juniper Village at the Shenango Inn hosted a Easter Bunny Breakfast for the community.  Pancakes, sausage and juice were served to all that attended.  A coloring contest was held, where every child received a prize just for participating.  The Easter Bunny hopped on down to the Grand Ballroom where the breakfast was held and took photos with all as well as passed out goodie bags to all the children.

April 2015 Events in Sharon, PA: Believe in Yourself

Welcome to April - the name derived from the Latin word Aperire meaning “to open”; the month when everything starts to bloom and come alive. What better time to really put forth your best efforts and see the true beauty inside than the month in which everything begins anew! Diana Ross, in the Wiz, advises “believe in yourself, right from the start. You'll have brains; you’ll have a heart; you’ll have courage to last your whole life through if you believe in yourself.” So let’s put our best foot forward, believe in ourselves and we can move mountains!

Join us for our April 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn as we pull pranks on April Fool’s Day; honor Jesus Christ on Good Friday, followed by hiding Easter eggs; celebrate the emancipation of the Israelites from slavery on Passover; and celebrate mother earth on Earth Day and Arbor Day. Peruse this month’s calendar as we focus on the brain through our Daily Brain Builders, Wii tournaments and our Healthy Brain Luncheon. Plan to join us for any and all events. Also, check out our Healthy Aging Resource Library to learn more about the brain or any number of health related topics. We look forward to seeing you during this fun filled month.

Our fabulous April 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn include our:

Ø  Annual Easter Egg Hunt held on the front yard of Juniper Village, enjoy the afternoon hunting for Easter eggs filled with candy and prizes followed by a visit from the Easter Bunny with refreshments served after the hunt on April 3^rd at 2:00 pm.

Ø  Business Breakfast for Business Professionals Only for an amazing brain healthy breakfast prepared by our Chef Nathan Reed while gaining an opportunity to network with one another here in our Shenango Valley on April 22^nd at 8:30 am.

We hope to see you at one or more of our April 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn!

Bob's Art Inspired by Faith

Whatever doesn’t kill you can make you stronger – as long as you don’t lose faith. Almost everyone misplaces faith every once in a while. But that’s not the same as losing it. If you can find it again, it will take you where you need to go, even if you don’t always know where that is.

Bob was born on November 6, 1928, in Gloversville, New York, the third child of a Woolworth’s manager whose “promotions” moved him and his family frequently. While he always felt the pain of leaving much behind, he was able to take something with him through each move: his talent for drawing.

“I drew pictures on every scrap of paper I could find,” he said.

While Bob attended Academy High School, he worked at the Planter’s Peanut store in downtown Erie. He decorated the window according to the seasons. Shortly before he quit Planter’s, a girl named Theresa came to work there. Neither she nor Bob had the slightest hint that their meeting would turn out to be the most important event in their lives as they would later marry.

While in high school, Bob developed his artistic skills through a commercial art correspondence course. That enabled him to get an art apprentice at Erie Engraving Company. His main job was to come up with themes for high school yearbooks, but he was assigned other commercial art work, such as designing packaging for new products.

A few years later, the Korean War caused him to be drafted into the army. After training at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, he sailed across the Pacific. In Korea, Bob was assigned to the 434th Engineer Construction Battalion which built roads and structures away from the front. He ordered the materials and supplies they needed. The only part of Bob that was wounded in Korea was his interest in art. 

His artistic creativity revived when his wife gave him a set of oil paints and a canvas for his birthday. With a calendar photo of a lighthouse as his model, he painted the first of dozens and dozens of paintings. Soon, Bob started his own commercial art business, mostly painting signs. Unfortunately, Bob’s commercial art business wasn’t bringing in enough money. Fortunately, he had continued to paint signs on his own. One of his customers was Ken Mulvey, who owned Marley Advertising and Printing in Greenville. Ken asked Bob if he wanted to be the firm’s artist. “I started working for them about 1980,” Bob said, “and continued with them until I retired. I was their art department, designing brochures, advertisements, just about everything, including photography.”

When Theresa died in 1991, Bob found himself living alone. “My younger son David died four years later. Even my dog, Willie, died in 2002. He was the last of my loved ones to leave home.”

Now, if you think Bob just shriveled up and faded sadly away, you’re forgetting about the fact that loss, through faith, can make you stronger. Bob certainly had faith. After Theresa passed away, he painted more and more pictures, inspired by a unique conviction.

“God is the real artist, guiding my hand,” he says. “He just gives me the opportunity to hold the brush and spread the colors of His choice across the canvas.”

Bob has had an art exhibit at Notre Dame, one at the First Presbyterian Church, and two at the Shenango Valley Senior Center. Bob came to us in December of 2012 and teaches art classes on a weekly basis in our Kennedy Art Studio where some of his work is featured as well as in our beauty shop and around our halls.  

http://www.americascemetery.com/roumfort-bob-theresa/

Juniper Communities Introduces Theralink for Onsite Integrated Therapy at Juniper Village at the Shenango Inn

Juniper Communities, a national owner-operator of Juniper Village senior living communities, is rolling out Theralink in all its facilities, and locally at Juniper Village at the Shenango Inn. Theralink is an on-site program designed to help residents regain and maintain independence, fitness and overall wellbeing. It is being implemented through a newly established partnership between Juniper Communities and Genesis Rehab Services.

“Rehabilitation, restorative services, and fitness are vital to healthy aging and whole person wellness,” explains Lynne Katzmann, CEO and Founder of Juniper Communities. “Coordinated with other clinical services permits, Juniper will be able to provide integrated post-acute care onsite at the communities through Theralink. This is especially important for Juniper’s residents who want and need more intensive rehabilitation services in their ‘home’.”

Grant Welson, Area Director for Genesis Rehab Services states, “Juniper is taking an industry lead by creating Theralink to offer onsite therapy services where they are integrated into everyday patient care. Feedback from preliminary implementation from Juniper’s residents has been overwhelmingly positive.”

The Theralink program will provide physical, occupational, speech, and when needed respiratory therapy that is integrated into the care Juniper currently delivers. Elements of Theralink include special balance and strength training, and fall prevention programs; technology and apps that facilitate and record personal fitness training; dementia management programs that integrate cognitive and occupational therapies; cardiopulmonary management; and monthly assessment reports.

March 2015 Events in Sharon, PA: Your Treasure Is Within

Treasure hunting has been around forever! The search for riches has evolved from archaeological digs revealing lost treasure to present day treasure hunts such as television’s “The Amazing Race”. Much has been written about the allure of treasure, but one thing that we’ve come to realize is that the treasure within is the most valuable of all. Each one of us has a treasure within and through our March 2015 events in Sharon, PA we will be exploring that treasure at Juniper Village at the Shenango Inn - be it your ability to sing, play a musical instrument, recite dramatic prose or balance a spoon at the end of your nose. No treasure is too small! In the immortal words of Captain Jack Sparrow, “Not all treasure’s silver and gold, mate.”

With our March 2015 events in Sharon, PA at Juniper Village at the Shenango Inn we end our Creative Expressions Series with a focus on Performance. Please join us during our March 2015 events in Sharon, PA while we recognize “Your Treasure is Within” as we provide opportunities to express yourself through our weekly drama clubs and by attending theatrical performances. If step dancing and corned beef and cabbage is more your thing, sample all that is Irish with our annual St. Patrick’s Day party or walk the red carpet and share your movie trivia skills at our Oscar Party.

Our fabulous March 2015 events in Sharon, PA include our Irish Sing-a-Long with Ed and Southern Care featuring traditional instrumentations and harmonious melodies on March 10^th at 10:00 am; our St. Patrick’s Day Family Luncheon with delicious themed edibles in a festive atmosphere on March 17^th at noon; our Van Trip to Buhl Park Casino for a fun outing for some entertainment with friends on March 23^rd at 2:30 pm; or our Best Las Vegas Bingo because everyone loves B-I-N-G-O and wants the chance to win prizes on March 28^th at 1:00 pm.

We hope to see you at one or more of our March 2015 events in Sharon, PA, so check out our calendar for more!

Awaken Your Passion: February Events

This month at Juniper Village we continue our Creative Expressions Series with a focus on Art.

Creating art for many of our seniors has been a lifelong passion, for others it may have been a casual hobby or serious vocation. Whatever the reason, art has substantial benefits to our bodies, minds and spirits! In Successful Aging, John W. Rowe, MD, and Robert L. Kahn, PhD, discuss key aspects of successful aging: low risk of disease, high mental and physical functioning, and being actively engaged in life. Expressive art activities promote active engagement in life in positive, healthy, and fulfilling ways - in other words, nurturing the spirit of life. Recent studies further indicate that older adults who participate in art programs have fewer doctor visits, use less medication, and experience a lower rate of depression – all resulting in lower healthcare costs.

Our fabulous activity offerings this month include our Celebrate the Music with “ZPRAISE” performance of worship and praise music on February 4^th at 2:00 pm; our Van Trip to Daffin’s Candy Store for delicious sweet treats and maybe a little something for that special someone on February 12^th at 3:00 pm; our Mardi Gras Celebration Family Luncheon as we enjoy delectable cuisine in a vibrant and lively atmosphere on February 17^th at noon; our Happy Hour with “Austie” for delightful entertainment and thirst-quenching libations on February 20^th at 6:00 pm; or our “Traveling Club” with Southerncare as we explore The Best of Italy on February 25^th at 2:00 pm.

Look through our calendar and plan to join us this month and “Awaken Your Passion” as we explore various mediums to expression through weekly art programs and visits to local art museums. Or, if art isn’t your thing, tailgate with us during the Super Bowl, await the Ground Hog’s prediction, our join in one of our festive celebrations on Valentine’s Day, Presidents Day or Mardi Gras.

Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn: Our Clinical Outcomes Speak for Themselves

We want to be your partner of choice in the new shared savings environment. At Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn, we have been collecting critical data for nearly 10 years. For example, we closely monitor residents to assure successful returns from either the hospital or rehabilitation setting.

The ability to manage pressure ulcers is key to minimizing hospitalizations. Low rates of facility acquired pressure ulcers are the result of a high level of wellness/clinical oversight and an indicator of quality care and service.

Another common cause of both initial hospitalizations and re-hospitalizations is medication errors. Changes to medication regime whether after a scheduled physician appointment or emergency hospitalization can leave patients confused about what medications are most current. Our wellness team is responsible for medication reconciliation and management, a process which virtually eliminates medication errors.

Communication is key and Juniper Village at The Shenango Inn takes communication to the next level through:

• Use of Electronic Health Records (Point Click Care)
• Optimized care transitions protocols
• Full implementation of INTERACT (Interventions to Reduce Acute Care Transfers)
• Use of a highly recognizable and consistent transfer information packet
• Focus on resident and care giver education and engagement
• Individualized care and service

Contact us today to see how we can assist you in managing your patient transitions.

Welcome New Beginnings: January Events

Welcome to 2015! What a wonderful time for us to reflect on the past year and forge ahead with new beginnings. January is a time for change when we make and sometimes break our New Year’s resolutions and focus on what we want to make better in the coming year.

January is also the month that Juniper Village begins our Winter Alive In All Seasons theme of Creative Expressions: “Explore Your Creativity” where in January we will focus on music! Research shows that music can help us physically by easing pain, helping us sleep better, eat less and enhance our blood vessel function. It is also suggested that music can help us mentally by reducing stress, relieving symptoms of depression, elevating mood, decreasing anxiety and improving cognitive performance. Hospitals are using music to help cancer patients manage stress and anxiety and to ease recovery in stroke patients.

Our fabulous activity offerings this month include our Welcome New Beginnings Open House as we have been busy making our building look warm and cozy with new carpeting throughout and renovations to our beauty salon among a few of our recent updates, but don’t forget to check out on our third floor, The Kennedy Art Room, dedicated to President John F. Kennedy who stayed in that room in 1960, so we welcome you to stop in and see what we have been up to while enjoying a food station by our Chef Nathan, beverages, entertainment, free giveaways and tours on January 20^th from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm!

Look through our calendar and join us this month as we explore our creativity through music with outings to local musical performances, Elvis’ birthday celebrations and concerts by our Joyful Noise Choirs. We invite you to Welcome New Beginnings at Juniper Village and make a habit of joining us for activities and events throughout the year!