September 2019

Welcome to the Weinberg Campus newsletter, dedicated to sharing news
and information with employees, residents, families and special friends.
Message From The President
On September 8 we celebrated Grandparents Day as a nation. Grandparents Day became official in 1978 when President Jimmy Carter signed a proclamation designating this special day.

I remember when I was a boy and it was Father’s Day or Mother’s Day, I would ask, “Why isn’t there a Children’s Day?” The inevitable and consistent response was, “Every day is Children’s Day!”

Well, for those of us who are lucky enough to be grandparents, every day that we get to see our grandchildren is a great day. There is something special about the bond between grandparents and their grandkids. I have been blessed with two lovely twin granddaughters, aged two, who live here in Buffalo and who are the prettiest little girls ever. But whose granddaughters aren’t? They bring me great joy, and I look forward to being part of their lives for years and years to come.

Here at Weinberg Campus we’re in the grandparent business. Many active grandparents have chosen to live here. And many families have entrusted us with the care of their parents and grandparents in their later and more vulnerable years. All of them honor us by doing so, and we are committed to providing an environment that allows all our residents to thrive and live happy and healthy lives. After all, many of them have big jobs to do. Being a grandparent is hard work! But there aren’t many “jobs” that are as fun and rewarding!

Best wishes to all my fellow grandparents.

Have questions or comments? Feel free to contact me at [email protected] or 716-639-3311 ext. 2468.
What's New
Weinberg Celebrates Creativity For
National Assisted Living Week
A Spark of Creativity” is this year's theme for National Assisted Living Week, and Weinberg's assisted living communities, Dosberg Manor and Garden House , hope to inspire residents to tap into their creative side through the arts and beyond. 

The arts offer many benefits to older adults, such as improving cognitive and sensory-motor functions, fostering self-esteem and self-awareness, cultivating emotional resilience, enhancing social skills, and reducing and resolving conflicts and distress, according to the American Art Therapy Association.

"Assisted Living Week is also an opportunity to recognize our devoted and caring staff," says Dana Notaro, Administrator of Dosberg Manor and Garden House. "Our goal is to offer person-centered care for residents and we appreciate the dedication of our employees."

This week's activities include drum circles, creative baking, family tree crafts, ice cream socials and staff appreciation day.

Assisted living programs at Weinberg Campus include comfortable environments and social programming in a beautiful, park-like setting. Dosberg Manor offers both an adult home and a licensed assisted living program where residents can receive the help and support they require to maintain their independence. Garden House is a licensed residence with three levels of assisted living, including memory care. Both communities are part of Weinberg Campus’ full continuum of care, which encompasses senior apartments , a new enriched housing program , a skilled nursing home , inpatient rehabilitation , outpatient physical therapy and home care services . Tours are available by calling 716-639-3332 or booking online at weinbergcampus.org .

National Assisted Living Week® was e stablished by the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) in 1995, and provides a unique opportunity for residents, their loved ones, staff, volunteers, and the surrounding communities to recognize the role of assisted living in caring for America’s seniors and individuals with disabilities. The annual observance encourages assisted living communities around the country to offer a variety of events and activities to celebrate the individuals they serve, as well as to help educate members of the public about this distinctive aspect of long term care. Weinberg Campus offers more than 4,800 activities per year among its residential communities and monthly calendars can be viewed at https://www.weinbergcampus.org/News-Events/Activities-Calendar.aspx.
Three Ways To Kickstart A Healthy Fall
Lacking culinary inspiration as the weather cools? Telling yourself that you will start going to the gym next week? Binge-watching TV rather than tackling a crossword puzzle?

We can often be our own biggest hurdle when it comes to making healthy decisions. But sometimes all it takes is a gentle nudge from a friend or a fun new idea to spark your motivation. Below, find three simple ideas to help you live your best life and boost your mental and physical health.

Staying Active: Exercise

While the thought of exercising might be intimidating, there are plenty of ways to gain strength and flexibility through walking, chair aerobics and other activities.

To take a more active role in your health, some health plans, including UnitedHealthcare , offer gym memberships at no additional cost. Consult your doctor prior to beginning an exercise program or making changes to your lifestyle or health care routine.

Staying Healthy: Walk-in-the-park Wraps

Fall is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors. Pack these protein-rich wraps for a picnic and marvel at the fall colors. Not a fan of pesto? No problem. Hummus and seasoned cream cheese are equally flavorful spreads.

Servings: Makes 2 wraps

Ingredients:

2 whole grain tortillas, 8"

2 tablespoons prepared basil pesto

1 cup spinach leaves

4-6 thin slices tomato

1/2 avocado, cut into 6 slices

4 slices turkey breast

2 slices mozzarella cheese, cut into 3 pieces

Directions:

1. Spread 1 tablespoon of pesto on the center of each tortilla.

2. Layer each with the spinach, sliced tomato and avocado, and then the turkey and cheese.

3. Roll the tortilla into a snug roll and wrap with parchment paper (wax paper works, too).

4. Tie each end with string before cutting in half diagonally to serve.

Health facts: calories: 462; total fat: 20.8g; saturated fat: 0g; cholesterol: 33.4mg; sodium: 178.1mg; carbs: 48.8g; dietary fiber: 8.1g; sugar: 5.3g; protein: 23.7g

Staying Mindful: Brain Quiz

Keeping your mind active and engaged is a good way to help fend off memory loss. Brain games, like trivia, are fun ways to help keep your memory sharp.

1. Which is the biggest part of your brain? a) Cerebrum b) Cerebellum c) Brainstem

2. How much does the average adult human brain weigh? a) 1 pound b) 3 pounds c) 6 pounds

3. Which part of the brain plays an important role in long-term memory and spatial navigation? a) Hippocampus b) Hypothalamus c) Basal Ganglia

Answers: 1. a 2. b 3. a

Find more simple ways to help enhance your mental and physical health at newsroom.uhc.com.

Brandpoint
September
A poem by Gloria Tetewsky, Resident
A lovely spring, a gorgeous summer -
One could not ask for more. 
It’s time for a brand new season,
Whatever is in store. 

Ah! September, summer’s lingering ember, 
The transition into Fall - 
So subtle, you may not remember. 
Or even notice it at all. 

Colorful flowers still lounge in their beds,
Daises smile and nod their heads. 
Wild flowers dance in the open fields, 
The joys of Autumn are yet to be revealed. 

Patiently we watch and wait.  
Something will happen, it will be great!
The open sky spreads far and wide.
Nebulous clouds drift and glide. 

Slowly, earth tilts away from the Sun. 
Our yearly orbit three quarters done.
We’ve become so accustomed to trees,
luscious green – 
Soon we’re in for a change of scene. 

September’s the right month - - 
At the right time – in the right place. 
To enter the Autumn season 
With charm and with grace. 
Active Aging: Important Questions
To Ask To Help Prevent Falls
Despite the common belief, falls are not a normal part of aging, and they are largely preventable. In fact, the best way to prevent falls is with a proactive, team approach.

Be empowered and engage your health care professionals, community providers and family by asking these five important questions recommended by the National Council on Aging.

1. What are my chances of falling?

When you visit your doctor, you likely bring up concerns about how your body feels physically. Be sure to also ask about your risk of falling - especially if you have fallen, have a fear of falling or are unsteady on your feet. By asking your doctor to assess your risk, you'll learn more about what you can do to prevent an injury. These can include physical activity, medications and proper footwear. A doctor can help you understand any concerns and provide helpful advice. If you are struggling with balance, outpatient physical therapy is another option to consider. Our therapist is specially trained to help people struggling with balance. Outpatient physical therapy and an indoor, heated therapy pool are available onsite at Weinberg Campus. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 716-639-3311 ext. 2409 . For people who are home-bound, physical therapy is also available at home through Weinberg's Home Healthcare program (716) 639-3311 ext. 2417.  

2. What home updates can I make to help prevent falls?

Most falls happen at home, but there are simple changes you can make to reduce your risk. Increase lighting in dark locations, bathrooms and walkways from the bedroom to the bathroom. Many falls occur in bathrooms, so install grab bars in the tub/shower and near the toilet. All the residences at Weinberg Campus come equipped with grab bars. For even greater safety, consider using a shower chair and hand­held shower. NCOA provides 18 steps to fall-proofing your home.

3. Do the medications I take impact my likelihood to fall?

The next time you pick up your medicines, take time to discuss the possible side effects with your pharmacist. Ask which ones might increase your risk of falling and what you can do to prevent accidents. Side effects to look for include dizziness, drowsiness, blurry vision and even confusion. Keep in mind, it's not just prescription medications that can impact your fall risk. Other medicines, such as over-the-counter sleep aids, can make you drowsy or dizzy during the day, which can increase your likelihood of a fall. Keep a record of your medications and take the list with you when you visit your doctors and pharmacist.

4. When was my last eye checkup?

Your vision is essential to keeping your balance and preventing falls. That's why it's important to have your eyes checked every year. If you wear glasses, remember that tint-changing lenses can be hazardous when going from bright sun into darkened buildings. A simple strategy is to change glasses upon entry or stop until your lenses adjust. Bifocals also can be problematic on stairs, so it's important to be cautious. Eye diseases such as cataracts and glaucoma can increase risk for falling, too. Talk with your eye doctor about these concerns.

5. How can I improve my balance and strength?

Ask your family physician about exercise programs that can help you build stability, strength and flexibility. While some exercises can be done at home, consider attending group exercise classes available at each Weinberg community. Class times are available on the monthly activities calendar . Joining an exercise group is a lot of fun and a great way to meet new friends. Some exercise programs, like Tai Chi, have been shown to improve balance and strength and reduce falls. You can also contact the Amherst Senior Center, JCC or area agency on aging for more information.

Here at Weinberg Campus, our home care nurses are offering a free home safety evaluation from a registered nurse for residents, as well as people across Erie County. It will take approximately 30-60 minutes. To schedule your evaluation, please call (716) 639-3311 ext. 2417 .

September is a great time to make a plan to prevent falls. Every year on the first day of fall - this year, Monday, Sept. 23 - NCOA leads Falls Prevention Awareness Day to spread the word about staying safe. Centene Corporation is this year's national sponsor. By being proactive, you can reduce your risk of falling and maintain your independence now and in the future. Learn more at www.ncoa.org/FallsTips.

Brandpoint
Letter of Thanks
Below is a note of appreciation from a family member of a Weinberg Campus resident at Dosberg Manor.

The world is a better place because of you. Just a little reminder of how much you mean to so many people.

Thank you for the care of our mom. Thank you for making her laugh, keeping her safe, and keeping your eyes on her when we can't.
Featured Events
Monthly Activities For Residents
New Employees August 2019
Ra'Nieya Bailey , PCA, Dosberg Manor
Shaquana Baker , HHA, Garden House
Tammi Folmar , Housekeeper
Markeya Hunley , CNA, Rosa Coplon Living Center
Chevida James , PCA, Dosberg
Theresa June , CNA, Rosa Coplon Living Center
Iris Long , CNA, Rosa Coplon Living Center
Shamela Meadows , RN, Supervisor, Rosa Coplon Living Center
Robyn  Miller , LPN, Supervisor, Rosa Coplon Living Center
Kimberly Ortiz , LPN, Supervisor, Rosa Coplon Living Center
Nadia Perkins , CNA, Rosa Coplon Living Center
Lashawna Rogers , CNA, Rosa Coplon Living Center
Jayla Samuels , PCA, Dosberg Manor
Jeffery Silas , CNA, Rosa Coplon Living Center
Ryan Spencer , Food Service Worker
Photo Gallery
Summer Fun
Weinberg Warblers perform "The Summer of '69 concert.
Couples enjoyed dancing at the Jack Civiletto concert, part of Weinberg's Summer Pops series.
The outdoor Sinatra-style concert attracted a large crowd on a beautiful summer day.
Fair Day Exhibits
Residents enjoy several exhibits at Fair Day, including this sailing booth.
It wouldn't be a Fair without home arts displays, such as knitting, crocheting and quilting.
Everybody's favorite place to strike a pose - the red tractor!
Picnic Pics
Bob Mayer, President & CEO and Matt McDougall, Administrator, Rosa Coplon Living Center greet picnic attendees.
Generations came together for Weinberg's resident family picnics.
Employees take a break at the staff picnic to pose for the camera.
United Way Day of Caring
Staff passes out thank you gifts to the 100 United Way Day of Caring volunteers from Ingram Micro and Erie 1 BOCES. Thank you for a great day!
Volunteers led a variety of activities with residents, including music, tie-dying, beaded jewelry making and tambourine making.
Randi Dressel, COO, Dana Notaro, Administrator- Dosberg Manor & Garden House, and Amy Hashemi, Director of Residential Services, dressed for the Weinberg Woodstock-themed day.