5 Tips for a Beautiful Thanksgiving Table Setting

Thanksgiving is right around the corner! The menu is probably all set, but have you given any thought to how your table will be set up? One of the things that makes Thanksgiving so memorable is a gorgeous table.

We have provided five simple recommendations that can help you put together a beautiful table that is simple, affordable, and still allows room for all the food.

Tip 1 – Use a Table Runner or Covering

We recommend that you have two standard table runners ready for any situation. Keeping one solid colored table runner and one printed one helps you be prepared in case you need to replace an existing table runner.

In addition to Thanksgiving, you can use the table runners for Christmas, Halloween, and even Valentine’s Day if you choose more neutral colors for your table runners. All you need to do is add a splash of color to make it fit with the holiday you are celebrating.

Tip 2 – Create a Centerpiece by Using Fall-Inspired Items

Make a simple centerpiece after selecting your table runner or covering. Think of fall themes items like apples, oranges, cranberries, leaves, sticks, pinecones, herbs, and pumpkins when coming up with a centerpiece.

When you’re at the grocery store buying the food for Thanksgiving Day, stop by the floral section; flowers are always a winner when it comes to centerpieces. They provide an amazing selection of affordable flowers and foliage to help bring your table to life.

Tip 3 – Increase the Height of Your Centerpiece

Once your centerpiece is ready, adjust the height of it by setting the centerpiece on plates or cutting boards. It’s a fantastic technique to give your tablescape depth and variety. Add just a little bit of height so you can still see the people across the table.

Tip 4 – Choose Napkins That Match Your Tablecloth

We recommend that you keep the napkins plain and pattern-free when using a patterned table runner. Place paper napkins diagonally on the plate or behind the silverware to give a professional, yet simple table setting.

Be careful to not combine too many different designs on the table. The best way to avoid this is to use simple napkins with a patterned tablecloth or runner and fun napkins with a plain tablecloth or runner.

Tip 5 – Make the Setting Special

Placing simple note cards with a remark or phrase on each plate rather than designating seats can be a great way to add something extra to your Thanksgiving table. Decorate each plate with the same materials. Feel free to match the place settings, or if you want a more casual atmosphere, arrange something different on each table.

The most important thing to remember is to have a Thanksgiving table setting that is perfect for you and your loved ones.

Embracing Technology As An Older Adult

You can be physically and socially active well into your older years thanks to the advancements made possible by modern technology. However, learning to embrace technology can be overwhelming and frustrating. We have provided some helpful tips for embracing technology.

Perspectives on Technology

Digital technology can be viewed as a challenge that must be overcome, but there are numerous approaches to doing so. Setting small personal tasks for yourself daily to help you embrace technology is a great way to get started.

Tasks such as employing manuals, trial and error, or other strategies to defeat software updates, undesirable viruses, or spam mail are all beneficial approaches in embracing technology.

Other approaches to digital technology such as enlisting the aid of friends and family is known to be extremely helpful in the learning curve of technology. This tactic not only works, but it also encourages social interaction with friends and family.

Familiarity and Continued Use

Familiarity with technology can help you continue to use it more frequently. Downloading software and apps that you are familiar with can help make technology feel less overwhelming.

The more familiar you become with technology, the more likely you are to continue using it. Alternatives such as utilizing a keyboard and mouse in place of a touch screen can be helpful in encouraging continued use of technology due to it being easier to use.

The Benefits of Technology

Understanding the value and benefits of technology can help you to embrace technology and become motivated to learn more. Learning how using social media apps can make it simpler to stay in touch with family and friends, wherever they may be in the world.

Technology can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. By taking some of the previously mentioned tips into consideration, you are sure to embrace technology as an older adult.

Apartment Amenities at Terrace Place

Are you looking for an independent living community with a wide range of apartment amenities? If you said yes, then Terrace Place is perfect for you! In this blog, we are going to discuss some of the apartment amenities that Terrace Place offers.

Open Floor Plan

If you want an apartment with lots of space, our open floor plan style apartments might be a good fit for you and your needs. You can host parties, have your friends and family over, and relax in the comfort of your own open floor-plan apartment.

Smart Technology

If you have wanted an apartment with smart technology, Terrace Place is the place for you! All of our apartments are equipped with smart technology so that you can get the most out of your apartment.

Pet Friendly

Just because you are moving into an independent living apartment, that doesn’t mean your furry friends can’t come too! At Terrace Place, we welcome your pets with open arms and would love to have them move into your apartment with you.

Patio or Balcony

Do you like sitting on a patio or balcony in the morning while sipping coffee or tea? Terrace Place’s apartments come with a patio or balcony for you to relax and enjoy a quiet morning or evening.

Stainless Steel Appliances

All of our apartments include stainless steel appliances, which allows you to enjoy the sleek and modern look of your apartment.

Granite Countertops

All kitchen countertops in the apartments at Terrace Place are made of granite, ensuring you have a beautiful and easy-to-clean kitchen countertop.

If you would like to learn more and see a full list of our apartment amenities here at Terrace Place, please contact us today for more information.

Older Adult-Friendly Dog Breeds

Getting a dog as a pet is something to think about in the long run. In your mid-to-late 50s, 60s, 70s, or beyond, this is especially true. Many older adults live alone, so it makes sense to get a canine friend to help with occasional feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Pets can improve our moods in the same way that a roommate or partner does, regardless of where we live. However, you will need to give quite a bit of care to your dog which can be a problem if you don’t have that time available to dedicate to your pet.

If you decide to get a dog, make sure that you take the time to carefully consider the several options of dog breeds and their characteristics before choosing your furry companion. Here is a list of some of the best older adults-friendly dog breeds.

Papillon

The top dog for older adults on our list is Papillon. The name “papillon” refers to the characteristic butterfly-shaped ears and webbed feet of the breed. These lively dogs are little and really cute.

Their neck, shoulders, and large ears all have long, poofy hair that grows on them. They are extremely intelligent and simple to train. Papillons are excellent dogs for smaller homes or apartments because they are well-adjusted and don’t require a lot of walking, despite their high energy levels.

If you have grandchildren, you don’t have to be concerned about the young ones playing with your Papillon since they are excellent with children. Your adorable puppy will undoubtedly keep you happy and in good shape. Overall, Papillon dogs are excellent for anyone looking for a tiny, hypoallergenic, low-shedding pet.

Corgi

Corgis are well-liked but incredibly pricey to buy! Recognized for its intelligence and athleticism, the Corgi was initially developed to herd livestock and sheep in the Welsh mountains. The Welsh word “cawr” is where the term “corgi” comes from. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi, the Dachshund, and other terrier breeds were some of the Corgi’s predecessors.

Corgis make wonderful indoor dogs for homes or apartments and are great with kids. When left alone, Corgis have a tendency to bark a lot and require a lot of activity. They gain weight quickly if they don’t exercise every day. Additionally, they shed their hair at least twice a month, so plan on cleaning your house frequently.

Pug

Pugs have been around for more than 400 years and were first developed in China. In the 1600s, Dutch traders brought them to Europe. In France, the breed gained popularity under the name “Dutch Pugs.”

Pugs have short hair, making it simple to maintain their grooming. They do not require a lot of exercise, but a Pug that does not receive enough exercise will tend to gain a lot of weight.

For older adults who don’t want to deal with the trouble of taking a dog for regular walks, we suggest pugs. As a result of being prone to upset stomachs and allergies, pugs should only be fed the right dog food, as advised by your veterinarian. These entertaining puppies will be a hit with your grandchildren! Pugs are also among the best lap dog breeds for older adults.

West Highland White Terrier

Small terriers with enormous personalities are known as West Highland White Terriers or Westies. Their head and tail usually have black, brown, or tan markings on a white coat. They are renowned for having a thick, somewhat weather-resistant coat that is curly. Additionally, Westies are hypoallergenic and require little grooming.

The Westie has long ears that stand up straight, almond-shaped eyes, and a long nose. These adorable white puppies are eager to please their owner and are well-mannered. West Highland White Terriers are amazing with other canines and kids due to their incredibly friendly temperament.

Cairn Terrier

Scotsmen first developed the Cairn Terrier in the 19th century to hunt foxes, badgers, otters, and other small wildlife. Additionally, it served as a farm dog to deter rats from crops. They do have a tendency to chase small animals because they were developed to be hunting dogs. This should be taken into consideration if you are thinking of adopting a Canin Terrier.

We suggest getting a Cairn Terrier if you enjoy gardening and have a small yard. These beautiful dogs will keep rabbits out of your lettuce patch and pests out of your house. These intelligent and lovable tiny dogs must have their long fur regularly brushed to prevent matting.

Beagle

The beagle is a diminutive hound that stands between 12 and 14 inches high at the shoulder and weighs between 14 and 18 pounds. Beagles have long, floppy ears that are high on their heads and short hair. Their tail curls over their backside when they are joyful or excited.

Beagles need daily exercise and space to roam around in your house or backyard. They are also very obedient dogs who always want to please their owners, yet they can become obstinate if they don’t get what they want or need. If you are seeking a tiny dog breed that needs lots of walks, we suggest beagles.

Terrace Place is a pet-friendly independent living facility and we would love to welcome you and your furry companions into our facility. To learn more, contact us today!

Fun and Easy Hobby Ideas for Older Adults

As we age, many of us discover that we have a lot more free time. Many of us opt to work part-time or retire, which leaves us with endless hours to do anything we choose. It’s crucial for older folks to maintain their physical and social activity. This can lower your risk of acquiring a number of health issues in addition to preventing boredom and loneliness. The solution is to take up one or two new hobbies. To provide some inspiration, we have compiled a list of fun and easy hobby ideas for older adults.

Musical Instrument Playing

It’s never too late to pick up an instrument and start playing your favorite music again. When playing alone or with companions, musical instruments like the acoustic guitar, ukulele, and piano provide new options to improve your abilities and enjoy your favorite songs.

Bird Watching

When you simply stop and observe the environment around you, you could be shocked by what you notice. Observing birds may be a lot of joy. You’ll be struck by their wit, intelligence, dexterity, and social skills. If you are unable to go around anymore, bird watching might be a fantastic new hobby to attempt. It is simple to perform from the convenience of a house window or while walking around the neighborhood. You will become familiar with the local birds and their characteristics as you observe them over time.

There are several strong reasons why birdwatching is swiftly rising to the top of the list of popular hobbies across the nation. It is easy, affordable, and it motivates us to spend time outside. Additionally, this pastime helps improve focus, attentiveness, and attention to detail. Older adults who learn the timing and pattern of the neighborhood birds’ arrivals and departures may find it relaxing.

Cooking

Active individuals can experiment in the kitchen with fresh ingredients to experience different cultures and cuisines from across the world. Cooking becomes a means to improve your favorite nostalgic foods, explore new recipes, and wow friends and family at dinner parties and holiday gatherings.

Crocheting

Because they provide projects for crafters of all skill levels, crocheting and related indoor hobbies like knitting and cross-stitching are excellent. Create blankets, dishcloths, headbands, scarves, adorable plush animals, and just about anything else you can think of by crocheting with vibrant yarn.

Final Thoughts On Older Adults

Everyone has unique physical constraints and a different amount of free time for new interests. What might be fantastic for someone else might be too much work for someone else. Be careful not to take on more than you can handle while being aware of your schedule and talents.

Start by incorporating one or two of fun and easy hobby ideas for older adults into your daily routine and see how you feel. As long as you enjoy what you’re doing and it isn’t adding stress to your life, you can always change up some activities or add others.

Huge Benefits of Selling Your Home and Moving to an Independent Living Facility

Since home is where the heart is, selling your house is not only a difficult decision, but also an emotional one. Homes are filled with memories of family, Thanksgiving meals, late-night conversations on the porch, and so on. However, especially for older individuals, there comes a period when home is quieter and more lonely than before. After losing a loved one, many elderly live alone. Aside from the cost of renovations to make your house safe for your changing needs, aging in place can also be costly due to maintenance, taxes, and utility costs. What was once a happy location can eventually start to feel like a burden.

This is the time when downsizing to a independent living community enables you to live life to the fullest. Although moving into a senior living facility doesn’t require you to give up your well-earned independence, it is never simple to let go of what is familiar. In actuality, it unlocks a whole new world of stress-free life filled with joy, meaning, and company. Here are a few more significant advantages of transferring to a senior living community and the benefits of selling your home.

No Landscaping or Home Upkeep

You can minimize your possessions and keep the things that are most important to you by selling your home. You also get to reduce the amount of housework you need to do. You can delegate to the maintenance team in an independent living community the chores of mowing the grass, cleaning the pool, and maintaining the cleanliness of the common areas.

Fresh Perspectives

You might feel sentimental after selling your home. You can anticipate fresh adventures, though you have many opportunities to create new memories on your own terms thanks to new acquaintances, planned activities, and a new place to call home.

Security and Safety

Communities for independent living offer security and safety. Compare the facilities and personnel for security in the communities you like. Some primarily rely on alarms and security cameras, while others employ guards to keep an eye on the site. Wide halls, grab bars in the walk-in showers, and open floor plans make it simple to get around, especially if you have mobility problems. Look for areas that place a strong emphasis on security and safety.

Take Action Now

There has never been a better moment or more benefits to selling your home! For older adults, now is the perfect time to move thanks to the real estate boom and the numerous benefits of senior living. Contact a seasoned real estate agent in your area to discuss the real estate market there and to set up a tour for Terrace Place if you’re thinking about selling your house.

You can learn more about Terrace Place by contacting us today.

Older Adult Activities in Allison Park

Do you feel that the older you get, the more you fall into a daily rut? Older adults frequently fall into a daily routine that eventually exhausts their energy and has a negative impact on their physical and mental well-being. The good news is that Terrace Place offers many fun older adult activities in Allison Park!

Dog Park – As you may know, Terrace Place allows pets. Why not take your pet to the dog park? You can meet other people at the dog park and have puppy play dates!

Exercise by Walking – We encourage our residents to engage in some form of physical activity to release endorphins. Going for walks around the trails of Terrace Place will help your mood and overall health! If you want a change in scenery, North Park is a great geographically close option.

North Park Swimming Pool – On warm days, enjoy the North Park Swimming Pool! The pool is open daily from 11:30 am-7:30 pm (weather and conditions permitting).

Have your own older adult activities in Allison Park that you love to do? Comment below! We would love to hear from you!

Why are Older Adults More Susceptible to Heat Stress?

Older adults more susceptible to heat stress can develop severe reactions. Some people over the age of 65 may be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses and require special care in hot weather. Living alone, chronic medical problems, and certain medications are all risk factors of potential heat stress.

Heat stress, also referred to as hyperthermia, occurs when the body’s ability to cool itself and maintain a healthy temperature is compromised. Sweating normally cools the body, but sweating isn’t always enough because the body temperature rises. Heat-related illnesses can range from mild conditions like a rash or cramps to serious and potentially fatal conditions like heatstroke.

Why are older adults more susceptible to heat stress?

When it comes to sudden temperature changes, older adults do not adjust as well as younger people.
They are more likely to have a chronic medical condition that alters normal body temperature responses.
They are more likely to use prescription medications that interfere with the body’s ability to regulate its temperature or sweat.

How to Prevent Heat Stress:

Dress Appropriately: Wear Lightweight, Light-Colored, Loose-Fitting Clothing.

Stay cool indoors: As much as possible, stay in an air-conditioned environment. All of our Terrace Place units have high-quality air conditioning.
Pace yourself: Limit your physical activity during the summer. If you’re not used to working or exercising in a hot environment, begin slowly and gradually increase your pace.
Wear sunscreen: Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool down and can dehydrate you. If you must go outside, protect yourself from the sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and applying SPF 15 or higher sunscreen 30 minutes before going out. Continue to reapply it as directed on the package.

What to do if Someone is Experiencing Heat Stress:

If you suspect someone is suffering from a heat-related illness, you should do the following:

Call 911 immediately.
Remove the person from the heat and place them in a shady, air-conditioned, or other cool location. Insist that they lie down.
Offer fluids such as water and fruit or vegetable juices if the person can swallow safely, but no alcohol or caffeine.
Wipe the wrists, neck, armpits, and groin with a cold, wet cloth. These are areas where blood flows close to the skin’s surface, and a cold cloth can help cool the blood.
If it is safe, encourage the person to shower, bathe, or sponge off with cool water.

Tips For Staying Positive and Young As You Age

How do you feel about the aging process? Do you see it as a positive rite of passage or a negative phenomenon that must be tolerated?

Experts and researchers on older adults agree that the following lifestyle factors can help improve your attitude toward aging and improve your quality of life. It’s never too late to start incorporating these habits into your daily routine.

Maintain physical activity – Physical activity and exercise are extremely beneficial to both our physical and emotional health. Daily moderate exercise is an excellent way to relieve stress, maintain a healthy weight, strengthen aging bones, and improve attitude. According to aging experts, a regular walking and strength training routine is an ideal way for many older Americans to maintain their fitness and sense of well-being. Consult your doctor before beginning an exercise program to determine the best plan for you.

Work on stress reduction – While it is nearly impossible to avoid stress and negative experiences as we age, there are a variety of useful ways to minimize and manage it. Different techniques work for different people, but many people have found that meditation, yoga, tai chi, walking, prayer, and deep breathing exercises are beneficial. Because stress can be harmful to both the mind and the body, it is critical to find a stress-reduction regimen that works for you.

Maintain brain activity – Maintaining a healthy, active brain is another important aspect of emotional health and well-being as we age, and it has also been linked to the prevention or delay of dementia. Crossword puzzles, board games, reading, learning a second language, painting, listening to classical music, and developing new skills are also thought to be beneficial to brain health. Many older Americans are now taking classes at a local college as well as online courses to keep their minds active.

You can reduce the stress of aging and improve your outlook on life by following these tips. When it comes to growing older, the phrase “attitude is everything” has proven to be true!

Safe Cleaning Tools For Older Adults To Use

It is widely assumed that a clean home is a healthy home. This is because keeping our home clean reduces our exposure to disease-causing bacteria. However, as we age, some physical limitations may prevent us from using the same cleaning methods as in the past.

Here are some cleaning tools that are both effective and gentle on our joints:

Robot Vacuum

A self-propelled robot vacuum is one of the most useful and time-saving cleaning tools available. Not only can they do your weekly vacuuming, but most robo-vacuums can be programmed to run at specific times, avoid certain rooms or areas, and respond to voice commands.

Swiffer Sweeping Mop

It is critical to have a cleaning tool that can reach all of your home’s nooks and crannies. A Swiffer is an example of such a tool.

Swiffers come in a variety of sizes, so there’s bound to be one version that you’d want in your home. If you’re looking for ideas, the lightweight Swiffer Sweeper is an excellent Swiffer product.

A Swiffer Sweeper is useful because it can be used as both a broom and a mop. This is due to the fact that it includes disposable wet and dry pads. Some people even choose to use only dry pads and spray a cleaning solution on the floor to provide the wetness required to function as a mop.

The Swiffer Sweeper can get underneath furniture. As a result, it is ideal for the older adults who want to assist with housekeeping.

Extendable Duster

A dusting tool with an extendable, telescoping handle is ideal for reaching out-of-reach dust and cobwebs. Look for one with a flexible pole and a duster head that can bend to fit into tight spaces and odd angles.

Set-and-Forget Deep Cleaners

Deep cleaners that you apply to the soiled surface and leave in place for 5 minutes to a few hours are even easier than all-purpose cleaners. Some require you to wipe up the residue after the application time is up, but many—including foaming shower cleaners, Drano or drain sticks, dishwasher-cleaning tablets, carpet stain removers, and others—simply clean the surface and dissolve on their own, reducing the amount of effort and elbow grease required.

Conclusion

Regardless of mobility limitations, the cleaning tools listed above are all useful and convenient. So, whether or not you are the primary housekeeper, you should give them a chance. They offer a painless way to keep both your home and yourself in top condition!