Author: Westminster Communities of Florida

When a hurricane or tropical storm threatens Florida, like Hurricane Idalia this week, team members at Westminster Communities of Florida have a top priority: Ensuring the safety and well-being of the residents we serve. Our Mission is to serve from the heart and inspire older adults to enjoy happy, healthy and purposeful lives.

What impact has Hurricane Idalia had? Some of our dedicated team members are living out our Mission, today, by evacuating with residents or sheltering at their communities through the storm. Regardless of their normal jobs, their principal responsibility right now is to provide for the residents’ needs.

Today we caught up with five of these team members to learn about their experiences, why they chose to stay at their community or evacuate with residents, and what is inspiring them to stay hard at work during a storm.

Jackie Walker Ellison, Cook, Westminster Shores, temporarily at Westminster Winter Park

In St. Petersburg, Westminster Shores was forced to relocate residents out of the path of the storm. Jackie Walker Ellison always knew she would be with the residents, from the moment she first heard. “The residents said to me, ‘Jackie, are you coming with us? I know we’ll be OK if you come with us.’ So I had no doubt,” Ellison said. “I knew for sure I would be evacuating, I called my husband and my mother and I told them, ‘I’m going with my residents, I’ll see you whenever.’ ”

The group of 24 residents was accompanied by Ellison to Westminster Winter Park, where they’re enjoying the hospitality of the residents and team members there. The Westminster Shores team is occupied with providing for the needs of the residents during Hurricane Idalia. “I think it brings everyone together as a team,” she said.

Ellison has worked at Westminster Shores for 29 years, and “I love my residents. I wouldn’t have been here so long if I didn’t love this place and my residents. God put us here for a reason,” she said. “Right now, the residents are happy, we’ve been watching movies and playing games, and everything is going smoothly.”

Michele McCann, Assisted Living Activities Coordinator, Westminster Palms, sheltering in place

“I choose to be with the residents during the most emotional time, like a hurricane, because that’s my quality as a caregiver,” said Michele McCann, Assisted Living Activities Coordinator at Westminster Palms. “Challenging times like this bring out the best in people, and I get to see it and share it.”

McCann was sheltering in place at the community in St. Petersburg, along with residents from Westminster Palms and residents from Westminster Point Pleasant in Bradenton. She has lived in Florida for more than 7 years, and has experienced three hurricanes in St. Petersburg so far. McCann said she feels that the way the team bonds, whether through an evacuation or sheltering in place, makes the team stronger. “We are going to come out better on the other side of this! We always do. We are so lucky that we are here, in our home, together, instead of relocating like so many had to. I have come to feel like this is my home, too.”

Carlos Santiago, Maintenance Engineer, Westminster Point Pleasant and Tiffany Mestre, Administrative Assistant, Community Support Services, temporarily at Legacy Pointe at UCF

A group of residents from Westminster Point Pleasant were also with Maintenance Engineer Carlos Santiago and Tiffany Mestre, an administrative assistant at our Community Support Services office in Orlando. The residents had evacuated from Bradenton due to the risk of storm surge and flooding, and were enjoying the hospitality of Legacy Pointe at UCF.

Santiago, the maintenance engineer, said that he had been through the worst in 2017 when Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico. “We were there with no power for 60 days, and we weren’t able to do anything,” he said. By comparison, he felt that everything was under control and being well maintained for the residents through both of his hurricane experiences as a Westminster team member.

“This job is personal for me,” Santiago said. “The residents are my family and I want to make sure that they are well taken care of.” In 2022, Santiago was recognized as Westminster Point Pleasant’s Team Member of the Year for his dedicated service to the residents. He said it was his honor to serve the residents.

Evacuating with the residents is just another extension of his commitment to the community, Santiago said. “This is my second time evacuating with the residents, and it doesn’t matter how many more. I will always volunteer to be there for them. We are here for each other and for the residents.”

Countless storms had also affected Mestre, a Florida native. But she had never had an experience like today’s. “It’s wonderful to help the residents and hear about their interests and stories. This is a great way to see how the residents live,” Mestre said. “I am getting to know what a day in the life of a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) and an ADON (Assistant Director of Nursing) are like. It has opened my eyes. Bless their souls for doing all of this.”

The effects of the storm had been mild in Orlando, but Mestre said that nevertheless, she and the residents felt more secure and had been brought closer together by the experience – and the residents were thankful for the security. “This has really brought our Mission to life for me in a way I had not experienced it,” said Mestre.

For Santiago, part of living in a hurricane zone meant more practice – and that he had found that the team is getting stronger through the experience. “The more we do this together, the more we become comfortable with each other, and the better organized we become. When you send a group of people together for one purpose and for our Mission, we get the opportunity to grow together and learn from each other,” said Santiago.

Beth Szabo, Services Coordinator, Riverside Presbyterian Apartments, sheltering in place

Another part of the Westminster Mission is to serve residents with low to moderate incomes, in our affordable Rental Retirement Communities. Beth Szabo, services coordinator at Riverside Presbyterian Apartments, was sheltering in place at the community to ensure that the residents were well cared for throughout the potential effects of the storm in Jacksonville.

“I’ve lived in Jacksonville since 1976, so I have lost count of how many hurricanes I’ve been through now. In 2004 they were coming so frequently we all said, ‘I’m over it, just let it go,’ ” said Szabo. “We have had to evacuate a few times over the years, like for Hurricane Matthew in 2016. But we did not have to this time.”

For Szabo, serving during a hurricane is a natural extension of her choice to work at the community, because the residents are like her extended family. “I have a heart for seniors, and the residents here mean a lot to me,” she said. “If something happens then I want to be here to help them.”

Szabo added that she feels safer riding out a storm at Riverside Presbyterian Apartments than at home. “Here at the community, I know that we have a great team looking out for everyone. We’re very small but we support each other.”

A facet of our Mission

While a hurricane is unexpected, serving the residents and supporting their fellow team members wherever we are and however we can is just another facet of the Mission of Westminster Communities of Florida: We serve from the heart and inspire older adults to enjoy happy, healthy and purposeful lives.

Be sure to learn all about how you can make a Westminster community your home to live or to work – find a community near you or follow us on Facebook and on LinkedIn!

Assisted living facilities help many seniors receive the care they need while maintaining their quality of life. With an estimated 1.5 million seniors in assisted living homes throughout the United States, these facilities have become a popular way to care for loved ones as they age.

Unfortunately, there are many myths about assisted living that can scare those who are researching facilities. Understanding which claims are misconceptions helps seniors and their loved ones make informed choices.

Common Myths About Assisted Living in Tallahassee

Are you concerned about your parent moving into assisted living? To ease your worries, take a look at some of the biggest myths and misconceptions about assisted living facilities.

Myth 1: Residents Lose All Independence

A big misconception about assisted living facilities is that residents will lose all of their independence while living in one. While assisted living facilities are designed to help residents with daily needs and medical care, seniors maintain a level of independence. 

Residents have their own rooms and can spend the day doing what they please. They can enjoy hobbies, group activities, and more while in assisted living. 

Myth 2: They Resemble Institutions

One of the darker myths about assisted living homes is that they resemble institutions. Many people fear that their parents will feel suppressed and confined. In reality, assisted living in Tallahassee allows residents to feel comfortable and at home. 

Rooms are designed in a way that helps residents feel safe and comfortable. Residents are able to spend time with others, have frequent visitors, and participate in a wide range of activities. 

Myth 3: There Is No Socialization

A common misconception about assisted living is that the residents are completely isolated. You may be worried that your parent, friend, or family member will be secluded in their room. 

The truth is that many social activities are provided in assisted living homes. Things like games, movie nights, and more are offered as opportunities for residents to interact and socialize with their peers.

Myth 4: Residents Are Completely Sedentary

Before your loved one moves into an assisted living community, you may worry that they will become sedentary and no longer lead an active life. This could not be further from the truth. The staff members who provide care for residents understand that a sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of physical and mental health concerns. For this reason, residents are encouraged to stay active and participate in various activities.

Myth 5: They Are Too Expensive

While there are certainly assisted living homes that are on the expensive side, there are many affordable options as well. Tallahassee, Florida, assisted living homes include affordable options that provide residents with skilled nursing care and recreational programs. These facilities can meet all of your loved one’s needs without costing an exorbitant price.

Myth 6: There Isn’t Proper Medical Care

A common concern about assisted living facilities is that they do not provide adequate medical care. Most residents who are in assisted living have chronic or progressive medical concerns, such as heart disease, diabetes, and cognitive decline. 

Giving these seniors proper medical care is essential for maintaining their health. This is why assisted living homes have on-site medical care with a team of skilled nursing professionals. Residents get daily medical care and assistance with medications and other needs. 

Your Loved One’s Assisted Living Facility Experience

If your parent, friend, or family member is moving into assisted living, rest assured that they will receive high-quality care. When you choose the right community, your senior loved one will be able to interact with their peers, maintain an active lifestyle, and have their medical needs met.

Making the choice to place a parent or other senior adult into assisted living can be difficult. Once you realize that your loved one requires daily assistance, you must begin the search for a quality facility that can provide the care they need. 

When searching for assisted living facilities in Tallahassee, Florida, it’s not unusual to make certain mistakes. Learn more about these mistakes and how to avoid them.

Mistakes to Avoid When Looking at Assisted Living Facilities in Tallahassee, Florida

Are you looking for an assisted living community for your parent or another senior adult? Take a look at some common mistakes you will want to avoid when researching potential living facilities.

Not Using Available Resources

When it comes to finding an assisted living facility in Tallahassee, there are many resources that can help. These resources are designed to help seniors move into a facility that is the right fit for them. Not taking advantage of these resources will only make your search harder and increase the odds of choosing a home that is not ideal for your loved one.

Waiting Too Long

Many people make the mistake of putting off the search for an assisted living home. They may wait until their parent or another family member is in dire need of constant care. Unfortunately, getting into an assisted living facility can take some time. The process will not happen overnight. You will want to begin before your loved one is in serious need of placement in an assisted living home.

Another common mistake people make when looking for an assisted living facility is waiting too long to decide. Many assisted living facilities are at capacity and cannot accept any new residents. When you find an assisted living community ideal for your parent, you will want to get them on the waitlist as soon as possible.

Underestimating Your Loved One’s Needs

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when choosing an assisted living facility is underestimating your parent’s needs. This leads people to place their loved ones in a home that cannot provide their required care. You’ll want to take an honest look at what your parent needs assistance with each day. Also, take medical concerns into consideration and seek an opinion from their medical team, if necessary.

Focusing Only on Aesthetics

A mistake that some people make when choosing an assisted living facility is focusing entirely on what the establishment looks like. While appearance is important, it is not the only thing that matters. You will want to choose an assisted living facility that is clean, meets all health codes, and can provide your loved one with comfort and safety. 

Some facilities may look pretty on the outside but provide subpar care. You will want to research testimonials and reviews of the facility to ensure that they can give your parent the care they need.

Not Physically Visiting Facilities

One of the most common mistakes people make when choosing an assisted living facility is not looking at facilities in person. With the rise of social media, Google, and other virtual resources, you may think that you can see everything you need to see strictly online. The reality is that social media and websites only give a glimpse into each assisted living facility.

To find out more about a potential facility for your loved one, visit in person and arrange for a tour of the establishment by calling ahead of time. Staff members can give you a guided walk-through of the facility, showing you the building’s living spaces, recreational areas, and other important aspects. This will help you make an informed decision about where your parent will be living.

Learn More About Assisted Living Facilities in Tallahassee, Florida

Searching for a quality assisted living facility for your loved one can be overwhelming. However, using available resources, starting the search early, knowing your loved one’s needs, and visiting the facility in person can make the search much smoother.  

A lifelong learner is anyone who continues to learn and educate themselves after their formal schooling is complete. Whether you learn a new skill, a new language, or just more information on a subject that has always fascinated you, continuing your education throughout your life is a fun and easy way to preserve your mental acuity. 

In addition to preventing cognitive decline, lifelong learning has other benefits that might surprise you. Keep reading to learn how lifelong learning can enrich virtually every aspect of your life. 

1. Improves Mental Health 

When it comes to mental health, anxiety and depression are major concerns for many senior citizens today. Many people feel like they don’t have much to do or are stuck in a rut inside their homes. 

Learning a new skill or subject—whether at home or at a local community center—is a fantastic way to stimulate your mind and stave off the boredom that can lead to depression. In this manner, lifelong learning can help you have a more positive outlook on life and lower your stress levels. 

It’s also worth noting that reduced stress levels are associated with lowered risks for several health complications, including stroke, heart attack, and high blood pressure. 

2. Provides a Sense of Fulfillment

The comforts of modern living make it easy for retirees to spend the day relaxing, especially if you reside in one of the many assisted living facilities near Tallahassee. However, that’s not what your brain is programmed for. 

Part of human nature is our natural drive to explore and learn. When you engage this part of yourself, it fills you with a sense of fulfillment and pride that’s hard to beat. 

You may surprise yourself with what you can do when you gradually push yourself beyond your comfort zone and explore new facets of the human experience. 

3. Improves Your Discipline and Self-Motivation

Trying something once is easy enough. But making the decision to be a lifelong learner can improve your overall discipline and dedication to bettering yourself. 

On a biological level, when you learn something new, your brain releases endorphins that improve your mood. This creates a feedback loop in your brain that motivates you to continue learning.  

An improved sense of discipline and self-motivation can prove beneficial in other aspects of your life too, such as sticking to a healthy diet or committing to a regular age-appropriate exercise routine.  

4. Contributes to a Better Night’s Sleep

If you struggle to sleep soundly at night, it may be because your brain hasn’t been properly stimulated during the day. Just like the rest of your body, your brain gets tired when you use it. By exercising and engaging your brain during the day, you make it easier for your brain to power down and rest at night. 

This behavior translates to more sleep, better quality sleep, fewer nighttime interruptions, and overall, more restful nights. 

5. Helps You Stay Connected with Peers 

Humans are naturally social creatures. As such, it’s crucial to maintain a healthy social life and surround yourself with good friends as you get older. Taking a class at your local community center is a great way to meet new people and build and maintain friendships. 

Challenge Your Mind in Tallahassee, Florida, Assisted Living 

If you crave structure and community, a Tallahassee, Florida, assisted living community might be right for you. Many facilities offer continuing education classes on everything from history to painting and poetry to fill your days with exciting exploration and help keep your mind sharp. 

Maintaining a clean and organized living space is essential for your overall health and well-being. This is especially true as you get older. A tidy, uncluttered home can help senior adults avoid falls, chronic lung infections, and other potential health concerns. 

Keeping your belongings organized can also make it easier to find the things you need, especially if you struggle with clarity or cognitive issues. 

When you’re an older adult in independent or assisted living, you may find it difficult to get your home clean and organized. Things like reducing clutter and enlisting the help of others can make a huge difference. Below you’ll find five great tips and tricks for getting and staying organized.

Organization Tips for Independent and Assisted Living in Tallahassee

Have you been trying to improve your organizational skills and keep a cleaner living space? Check out five tips and tricks for older adults who want to stay organized in assisted living in Tallahassee, Florida.

1. Reduce Clutter

The first step in getting organized and staying organized is reducing clutter. Go through all of your belongings and discard any excess things you no longer need. This may involve parting with some older items you’ve been holding onto. You’ll need to determine what is worth keeping and what needs to be discarded. 

Having fewer belongings will make it easier to keep things tidy and organized. If you’re having a hard time sorting through your items, there are organization professionals who can be enlisted to help you work through the process.

2. Invest in Storage and Organization Tools

To keep your belongings organized and easily accessible, invest in quality storage and organization tools. Things like containers, dividers, and cabinets are all great ways to organize your items. Other organization items include:

• Food storage containers
• Drawer dividers
• Filing cabinets
• Rolling storage carts
• Woven baskets
• Plastic storage tubs
• Shower or bathroom caddies
• Closet organizers

Storage containers are available in countless sizes and materials, so you’ll be able to find the perfect containers for your belongings. Drawer dividers keep your clothing items and accessories in their own spaces. Filing cabinets are an excellent way to keep important papers in an organized place where you can access them quickly.

3. Find Outside Storage Options

If you’ve already gone through your belongings to reduce clutter and you still have excess items, you may be in need of outside storage options. This is often the case for people who have many family belongings and items they cannot discard. 

If you have boxes or tubs of additional belongings, you may need to rent a storage unit to house them in. This will allow you to hold onto these items while still keeping your living space clean and free of clutter.

4. Use Any Housekeeping Services

Sometimes staying organized requires a little professional help. If you’re in independent or assisted living in Tallahassee, there may be housekeeping services available to you. 

Taking advantage of these housekeeping services can help keep your living space organized and tidy. This may involve weekly visits from a housekeeper or more regular cleaning services from other cleaning professionals.

5. Enlist Help from Friends and Family

Cleaning and organizing aren’t always simple. Tasks like reducing clutter or re-organizing your space may require multiple people to get the job done. 

If you’re struggling to clear out your living space and get more organized, don’t be afraid to ask friends and family for help. This can make the process much easier and speedier, helping you achieve a tidier home before you know it.

Are you looking at assisted living facilities for a parent or other family member? The transition to assisted living is often clouded by the common myths and misconceptions surrounding these communities. Learn more about these myths and why they simply aren’t true.

Myth: There’s No Independence 

One of the most pervasive myths about assisted living facilities is that residents have no independence or forfeit the ability to do things themselves. While assisted living is designed to aid residents with their daily functions and medical needs, they can still maintain a relatively high level of independence.

Residents of assisted living facilities typically have their own living spaces and the freedom to do what they want, when they want, and only receive assistance for the tasks they need a little help with.

Myth: It’s Too Expensive

Another common myth that can take assisted living off the table for those who need it most centers around the fear of breaking the bank — many people believe that assisted living facilities are too expensive for them to move their loved ones into.

While there are certainly pricier communities, many assisted living facilities in Tallahassee, Florida, are quite affordable. There are also helpful resources that can offer financial aid if you’re having trouble getting your loved ones into assisted living.

Myth: Residents Are Isolated

Some people are worried about placing their loved ones in assisted living due to worries about loneliness or isolation. But the idea that these facilities are desolate places where residents are confined to their rooms all day is simply untrue.

The reality is that residents in assisted living have the opportunity to spend time with fellow residents and staff members every day. In fact, these communities can be great places to make new friends.

Myth: It Worsens Cognitive Decline

Many older adults transition to assisted living because they struggle with cognitive decline. Naturally, their loved ones might be concerned that their condition could worsen if they enter assisted living since they wouldn’t be performing daily tasks on their own.

Despite this belief, the assistance and stimulation these facilities afford generally enables residents with Alzheimer’s or dementia to lead a better quality of life than they could on their own.

Myth: There’s Nothing to Do

If you’re concerned that your loved one will have nothing to do in assisted living, you’re not alone. This is one of the most harmful myths surrounding assisted living facilities, and it’s far from reality.

Assisted living communities provide residents with many opportunities to engage in various recreational activities, including arts and crafts, hobby groups, exercise classes, movie nights, and more.

Myth: It Promotes Illness

Assisted living facilities are often thought of as places full of people who are severely ill or dying. In reality, patients who are especially ill or close to death are often in hospice care. Assisted living communities are simply for older adults who need help with their daily needs due to physical impairment or cognitive slowdown.

Myth: The Care Is Inadequate

One of the ugliest misconceptions about assisted living is that the standard of care for residents is subpar. While there are heartbreaking stories concerning certain facilities, most assisted living communities provide excellent care to their residents.

The staff at these facilities are all highly trained professionals who go above and beyond to assist residents with their medical needs, day-to-day tasks, and basic hygiene. What’s more, many caregivers form genuine, caring relationships with the residents they help look after.

Experiencing Assisted Living Facilities in Tallahassee, Florida

If you or a loved one are considering assisted living, it’s important to remember that you’ll likely encounter many inaccurate myths and misconceptions about what senior living communities are like. To get the truth for yourself, take the time to explore your options for assisted or independent living in Tallahassee.

Looking for fun things to do during the winter? Cold temperatures and inclement weather can make it hard to find activities to engage in, especially if you like spending time outdoors. If you’re wondering how to enjoy yourself during the colder months, check out these excellent winter recreation options for seniors.

Dancing

Dancing is a great way for seniors to celebrate the winter months. Whether it’s a chilly outdoor get-together or a cozy night indoors, dancing with friends lets you have fun while being active and social. It can also be an organized activity for residents in assisted living in Tallahassee.

One of the best things about dancing is that there’s no wrong way to do it. Just let the music take over and express yourself!

Cooking and Baking

Cooking is another perfect pastime for the winter. With cold weather in most areas, people prefer to stay indoors where it’s nice and toasty. And what better way to stay warm than making your favorite meal or whipping up some fresh-baked treats?

Come up with a list of recipes you want to make and check one off every couple of days. You can then share the results with your friends and family.

Walking

If the weather permits, it’s always nice to take a relaxing stroll outside. Grab a friend or relative and go for a long walk somewhere you love. Pick a place with great scenery so you can take in the sights along the way.

Walking is another excellent way to socialize and enjoy being outdoors while also getting some much-needed exercise. Just make sure you bundle up to protect yourself from the cold!

Singing

Singing is a perfect way to celebrate the winter months and spend time with friends and family, especially if you have a fondness for Christmas carols and holiday songs.

Depending on where you live, you could even get a group of revelers together and go door-to-door singing Christmas carols. Another option is to organize an indoor concert at your Tallahassee, Florida, assisted living facility, where residents can put on a show for friends, relatives, and staff members.

Yoga

Yoga is a wonderful recreational activity all year round, but it’s especially convenient during the winter since it can be practiced indoors or outdoors. If you’re new to the discipline, consider taking a yoga class to learn some basic postures and breathing techniques.

With consistent practice and effort, you’ll feel better physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Visiting Assisted Living in Tallahassee

If you have a friend, family member, or other loved one in assisted living, the holiday months are a great time to pay them a visit and spend time making memories together. It’s also a good chance to get to know some of the other residents, share holiday stories, and bond over your favorite traditions.

Many assisted living residents don’t get to be home with their families for the holidays, so paying them a special visit can lend them some much-needed cheer and help make the season a little brighter.

Winter Sports and Games

Another popular way to enjoy the cold is to play winter games or sports outdoors. Go skiing or ice skating, start a snowball fight with your friend, or teach the little ones in your family how to make snow angels. Whatever you do, just make sure you stay safe and go inside periodically to warm up. Cold weather doesn’t have to stop you from having fun! Whether you’re dancing, cooking, walking in the park, or spending quality time with a loved one at an assisted living home, there are countless ways to enjoy the end of the year.