Apples have a rich history in Irish culture and play a role in many stories within Celtic mythology. It is said that the unmarried person should place one under their pillow to ensure their sleep is filled with dreams of their future spouse. There is a legend that St. Patrick himself planted an apple tree outside of Armagh County, which is now lovingly called Orchard County. Apple cake is a classic dessert enjoyed throughout the country’s pubs. This version is a celebration of Ireland and the apple.

Chef Carol Koty
Food and Beverage Director – Pomperaug Woods

Makes 1 Loaf Pan:

1 Tbsp. salted butter

1 cup granny smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced thinly

2 Tbsp. brown sugar

½ tsp. cinnamon

2 ½ cups brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes

4 large eggs

1 cup heavy whipping cream

¼ cup pure maple syrup

2 Tbsp. pure vanilla extract

1 Tbsp. cinnamon

1 Tbsp. Irish whiskey (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a small sauté pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the apple slices, brown sugar, and cinnamon.  Stirring often, cook until the apples soften, about 5 minutes.  Remove from heat and set aside until ready to use.
3. Place the cubed brioche bread in a large bowl.  In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy whipping cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and Irish whiskey (optional).  Pour the liquid over the cubed bread and allow to soak for at least 10 minutes.
4. Mist a loaf pan liberally with nonstick pan spray.  Spoon the soaked bread mixture into the loaf pan, filling halfway.  Layer the cooked apple slices over the bread mixture.  Top the apple slices with the remaining amount of bread mixture to fill the loaf pan.
5. Bake the apple bread pudding until the center is set and reaches 145°F, about 45 to 50 minutes.  Serve warm with ice cream or caramel sauce.  Enjoy!

When the temperatures finally start to consistently stay above freezing, the desire to get outside suddenly blossoms like the dogwood, crabapple and redbud trees. And no matter what your age, there are real benefits to doing outdoor activities. It can increase energy, improve memory, encourage physical activity, help fight depression and even boost your immune system.

Spring into These Outdoor Activities for Seniors

After spending months inside looking at leafless trees, here are 13 outdoor activities for seniors that can get you in the fresh air and sunshine this spring.

1. Dig in the dirt: Gardening is a great way for older adults to stay active and maintain strength and flexibility. Flowers, herbs and produce can be grown in small plots, side yards, raised beds, pots and window boxes.
2. Instead of just wishing: Fishing off the dock or along the banks of a pond or lake can be a relaxing way to enjoy the outdoors. It doesn’t take a lot of physical effort and it’s a great way to connect with your grandchildren. 
3. Open-air concerts: Many local organizations put on small music events or outdoor theater showings that are usually free for senior citizens.
4. Freeze frame: Photography is an artistic activity that you can learn about and get better at over time. And you don’t need an expensive camera — the camera on a smartphone or tablet can take wonderful pictures.
5. Friendly competition: Simple, portable games like bocce ball, croquet, lawn bowling and lawn darts can turn your yard into a sports arena.
6. Dine outdoors: Enjoy dining al fresco by packing a picnic basket, firing up the grill or dining on a restaurant’s patio balcony. If you want to have a picnic but don’t have time to plan, pick up a pizza. 
7. Now showing: Visit interesting sculpture parks, museum art installations and craft exhibitions around town.
8. Shop outside: A weekly trip to the farmers’ market can be a great way to spend the day and allows you to take an active interest in your diet and health. It’s also a wonderful way to get to know people in the local community.
9. Community celebrations: There are always community events organized by various  local associations, including car shows, parades and celebrations of civic pride. 
10. Feathered friends: This soothing and therapeutic activity is ideal for those who want to enjoy and connect with nature.
11. Go for a drive (and putt): Golfing is a perfect sport for seniors because it’s actually light exercise, and its competitive aspect makes it fun to do with a group. 
12. Enjoy the sights: If you’ve lived in the same area for a long time, there are probably a lot of interesting sights and places of interest you may have overlooked. 
13. Do the stroll: A great way to stay active is by taking a walk. You can enjoy a long hike on a path or just take a quick jaunt around the neighborhood. It’s also a great way to get some fresh air and see the sights the environment around you has to offer. If you have a dog, your furry friend is sure to enjoy tagging along and meeting the neighbors.

When you look at the leaves of a tree in late summer, do you notice anything different? How about in early fall? Sometimes it’s hard to see change as it happens. It can also be tempting to hope that this year… maybe winter just isn’t coming. But that’s not how weather patterns work. It’s not how the onset of dementia works either.

Slowly, often imperceptibly, what begins as everyday forgetfulness in an older family member can progress to full-blown dementia or Alzheimer’s disease without you realizing it. Is professional memory care needed? How would you know? 

Fortunately, there are both commonsense and clinical criteria to help determine when memory care is needed for an individual’s safety and well-being. Let’s look closer at this challenging topic to make sure you’re prepared to intervene on behalf of a loved one living with dementia, if and when that moment arrives.

How it Begins

Dementia is a chronic disorder that progresses over a period of years. To a degree, the early stages are nearly identical to what’s considered a normal part of aging — difficulty remembering names, misplacing objects like eyeglasses and keys, occasional forgetfulness. But slowly — and not always — these signs can progress to the point where they impair a person’s ability to execute everyday tasks. If this is happening to your parent or older sibling, you’ll feel in your gut that something’s wrong.

You may notice that your loved one has difficulty finding the right words or can no longer carry on a conversation like they used to. You might see a decline in personal hygiene and a disinterest in connecting with people socially. Typically, older individuals and their grown children will rationalize these early signs and simply chalk them up to the vicissitudes of growing older. But if the signs worsen, families will be forced to address them.

Early Signs of Impending Dementia

• Decline in daily hygiene
• An absence of routine housekeeping
• Disinterest in lifelong hobbies and pastimes
• Social withdrawal
• Trouble following directions
• An apparent inability to read and comprehend
• A noticeable change in language skills
• Repeating simple questions
• Inability to identify family members in photographs
• Finding spoiled food or pet waste in the residence

Mid-Stage Signs That Require Immediate Action

• Forgetting medications or taking too much
• Leaving burners or appliances on
• Forgetting to eat, leading to steady weight loss
• Confusion and disorientation
• Episodes of wandering and becoming lost
• Bruises they can’t explain or remember getting
• Verbal abuse or accusations
• Displays of agitation or aggression
• Close calls or accidents associated with driving

Investigate Early

Allowing a family member’s cognitive ability to decline to the point you’re concerned for their safety is unwise and unnecessary. And when you consider the many trip hazards, fall risks, household chemicals, kitchen appliances, and even the possible presence of firearms in the home, you’ll realize that caring for a dementia patient at home involves risk that requires significant safety modifications. As difficult as discussions with siblings can be on this topic, it’s incumbent on you to intervene when a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease can no longer live safely alone. You can avoid this moment of crisis by involving professionals long before it arrives.

A primary care physician or geriatrician can perform simple, in-office tests as soon as you start noticing signs that concern you. The results of these tests will provide a baseline for the doctor to monitor and measure whether disease is present and how quickly it’s progressing. The doctor will perform a brief mental status exam using exercises that measure short-term recall, concentration and spatial awareness. Your loved one may be asked to name objects properly or repeat words spoken by the doctor and then remember them later in the appointment. The exercises might involve adding and subtracting numbers or spelling simple words backward. The doctor will also assess the individual’s understanding of visual and spatial cues, such as the distance and location of objects.

By discussing the challenges of dementia early, you give your family member the chance to be part of the conversations and decisions that lead to senior living or memory care. The feelings of inclusion and autonomy this affords are also helpful to the person’s transition to care.

Consider Professional Memory Care

The level of care you’ll find in today’s memory care facilities is designed to optimize quality of life even as cognitive abilities decline. A good memory care community will offer 24/7 care from a professional staff specially trained in the care of those suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Some senior living communities focus solely on memory care, while others, like continuing care retirement communities, have a dedicated memory care unit or neighborhood. Generally speaking, residents in these communities take less medication, have a reduced risk of falls and injuries, show improved wellness and overall nutrition, enjoy greater independence, and require fewer visits to the hospital. By choosing professional memory care services for your loved one, you’re ensuring they’ll receive the caliber of care they deserve in an environment specifically suited to their needs.

Explore Person-Centered Memory Care at Pomperaug Woods

When your loved one receives memory care at Pomperaug Woods, they benefit from our holistic support network. At the heart of our approach to memory care is a nationally recognized philosophy known as Heartfelt CONNECTIONS — A Memory Care Program® that promotes physical and emotional well-being; supports daily functioning; and maintains a sense of purpose, satisfaction, dignity, and quality of life. We encourage you to contact us with your questions about memory care and to schedule your personal tour.

If you’ve just started researching memory care in Southbury, CT, for yourself or someone you love, you probably have many questions. 

You may be searching for answers related to how much memory care costs, what kind of support and personalized attention this level of care provides, and what types of specialized programs are available for someone diagnosed with memory loss due to some form of dementia.

At Pomperaug Woods, we’re here to serve as a helpful resource to you. This in-depth blog post can help answer many of these questions. If you have other questions not addressed here, or if you’d like to inquire about our memory care, we’d be happy to talk with you anytime.

How Much Does Memory Care Cost?

Understanding what is provided in the monthly fee is important, because it can help you and your family members better compare memory care facilities in your area.

In the state of Connecticut, the average cost of memory care in a memory care facility is $5,344 per month. In the city of Southbury, the average cost of memory care is $7,080 per month. Both figures are higher than the national median of $4,920 per month.

The cost varies greatly depending on whether the residence is private or semi private; the size of the residence affects the monthly cost as well. Other factors that affect cost include location, amenities and care needs. 

Some services — like meals, medication management, housekeeping, help with activities of daily living, laundry and linen service — may be included in the monthly cost. But in some communities, these services may be considered optional, or can be selected a la carte.

When choosing a memory care facility, it’s important to understand how prices are calculated, what’s included, and what’s not. Ask how often rates increase and whether a deposit or entry fee is required.

What Types of Care are Provided in Memory Care’s Monthly Cost?

Family members searching for memory care options for a loved one may need to compare communities to fully understand memory care’s monthly costs. Typically, when looking at how much memory care costs, you’ll find most communities have staff members who provide help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, grooming, dressing, eating, and using the restroom. Nursing professionals may manage medications; some communities may collaborate with the resident’s personal physician and family members to create personalized care plans. Other communities may have specialized programs to help memory care residents thrive.

For example, at the heart of memory care at Pomperaug Woods is Heartfelt CONNECTIONS — A Memory Care Program®, recognized as one of the most innovative memory care programs in the country. Staff members get to know residents, understanding details from what their lives were like before their memory loss. This legacy of details enables a deep heartfelt connection and shapes a customized memory care plan around a resident’s needs, preferences and choices.

How Does Memory Care Differ from Assisted Living?

Assisted living is another level of care you might find at some senior living communities. These two levels of care have some similarities — for example, people who have mild cognitive impairment may live in an assisted living setting. But memory care has  several significant differences.

• Community layout: Memory care facilities are designed to provide comforting, safe and secure environments where residents can receive 24-hour care and support. The facility may offer small neighborhoods of 8-12 residents, with private or semiprivate suites and large shared kitchens and living rooms that promote socialization. There may be secure outdoor gardens where memory care residents can wander safely. The facility may have door alarms or motion sensors or other safety precautions. 
• Level of staff attention: In assisted living facilities, residents may need assistance with activities of daily living but otherwise live independently and manage their own time. Memory care residents receive a lot of attention from specially trained staff who have experience working with residents who have some form of dementia.
• Specialized activities: Memory care residents may have a customized calendar of activities designed to keep them engaged socially and help reduce their confusion, anxiety and distress. Memory care facilities may also offer memory-enhancing therapies like music therapy.

Who Pays for Memory Care?

Once family members understand how much memory care costs, the next logical question is, “How do we pay for it?” Aside from private insurance, there are some funding sources available:

• A veteran or their widowed spouse may receive benefits from the Aid and Attendance program that may help pay for this type of senior care.
• Long-term care insurance may cover some costs of a memory care facility.
• Medicaid may cover some expenses if the resident qualifies.

If an older adult is already living at Pomperaug Woods, LifeCare® residents will be able to transition to memory care based on the parameters of their current residency contract. LifeCare® residents are assured all-encompassing care at predictable rates they can count on, with the added benefit of asset and estate protection.Our knowledgeable sales counselors can explain the benefits of LifeCare® and how it can make an appreciable difference in your life, or the life of someone you love. Contact us to start the conversation today.

It was a sunny day in May 30 years ago when the first residents walked through the doors of Pomperaug Woods to begin enjoying their new lifestyle. They could smell the fresh paint, and see the finest finishings in their new apartments and throughout the common areas. It was a community all looked forward to calling home. Since that time, Pomperaug Woods has become a wonderful community that offers reassurance and security through the LifeCare® option for hundreds of residents.

“Pomperaug Woods is home to intelligent, positive, creative people who define the art of living,” said Kevin Moshier, executive director of Pomperaug Woods. “Since we opened our doors, our community has improved the lives of seniors and their families.”

Pomperaug Woods was the vision of its “founding mother,” Dr. Elizabeth Avery Wilson. Dr. Wilson had extensive background in establishing higher education institutes that offered health education programs. She served on several national organizations, including the American Medication Association.

In 1979, she presented the idea of a senior living community in Southbury to the Life Care Services® development team. She sought approvals for 30 skilled nursing beds located on 22 acres of pristine land in New Haven County. The vision became a reality nine years later during a dedication ceremony on October 16, 1988. Dr. Wilson was recognized for her work to better the lives of Connecticut seniors.

“Dr. Wilson was an advocate for senior living,” said Moshier. “She saw the importance of staying physically and intellectually active as you age.”

Pomperaug Woods and Southbury have seen many changes in the 30 years since the development was first envisioned. Connecticut, along with the rest of the country, has undergone a historic transformation with the aging Baby Boomer population. The state is currently the seventh oldest in the country, in terms of percentage of adults age 65 or older.

“There’s a tremendous need for engaging senior living options in the area because of this growing population,” said Moshier. “Older adults are yearning for a location where they can grow, and that’s what we offer to every resident. We believe there’s a need to educate the older population about senior living options and planning ahead for the future.”

According to the latest U.S. Census reports, nearly 5,300 people or 27% of the Southbury population, is 65 or older. That’s triple the percentage of older adults living in neighboring New Haven and double that of nearby Waterbury. By the year 2020, census reports project 40% of Southbury’s population will be over the age of 65.

These growing numbers of seniors are looking for quality living options with amenities and wellness services.

The community attributes its success to embracing the art of living, the experience of its staff, its financial stability, and its position as Southbury’s only not-for-profit LifeCare® community. The campus provides a variety of amenities and maintenance-free lifestyle options ideal for today’s active seniors. Residents enjoy sharing experiences that bring purpose and joy to the life they live.

Recent studies show when a person becomes part of an independent living retirement community like Pomperaug Woods, they’re more likely to make new friends and try new things, and most report a better experience than they expected.

Pomperaug Woods has a local commitment that started 30 years ago with a vision. The community plans to continue its unwavering commitment to resident satisfaction for the next 30 years and beyond.

Did you know there are certain “tax day” financial benefits to moving into a LifeCare^® community like Pomperaug Woods? Certified Financial Planner™ Brad Breeding breaks down some costs, questions and concerns for you below.

If you’re interested in learning more about LifeCare, Brad Breeding joins us here at Pomperaug Woods on May 17. 

Q: Are there certain medical expenses in a retirement community that are tax-deductible?

A: There are two aspects involved in answering this question. First, there are some Continuing Care Retirement Communities where a resident living independently – i.e. not receiving care services – may be able to deduct a portion of their monthly fee for what essentially amounts to a “pre-payment” of future care expenses. A sizable portion of the entry fee may also be deductible for the same purpose.

There are certain types of residency contracts, typically referred to as LifeCare, where such a deduction is more applicable than it would be with other CCRC contract types. When this type of deduction is possible, the community will send out a letter to residents each year describing the deductible amount, but residents should still consult with a tax professional to determine if they qualify.

The other aspect is when a resident receives and pays for care services. Again, it depends on the type of residency contract. Whether living in a CCRC or not, people are generally able to deduct eligible medical expenses that exceed 10% of their adjusted gross income. See IRS Publication 502 for more detail.

Q: Monetary decisions should contribute in choosing a retirement community. What are some of the most popular considerations seniors should know about?

A: In addition to possible tax deductions described previously, it’s important to understand exactly what is covered under the monthly fee at the retirement community, and what’s extra. With this information, a person is in a better position to do a proper analysis of what they’re paying to live at home, compared to what it will cost them to live in a retirement community. Some people don’t stop to think about the fact that much of what they’re paying for at home will be covered under their monthly fee at the retirement community, so the cost of moving to the retirement community may be less than they expected once they factor this in.

Also, it’s important to understand if and how fees could adjust over time, particularly when
care-related services are received. This gets back to the point about the type of residency contract. Some contracts (LifeCare) include all care services in the monthly fee, which may be thought of as an all-inclusive contract. Others (e.g., Fee-for-Service) require residents to pay the full cost of such services, possibly in addition to the monthly fee. In a sense, it comes down to pay now or pay later, but understanding specifically how the contract works helps avoid any surprises.

Q: You’ve met seniors across the country, and have heard their concerns when it comes to choosing a retirement community. What are the most common questions you hear and the best advice you can give to them?

A: The most popular question I get is whether someone can use their long-term care insurance in a CCRC. The answer is yes, but there may be limits on how much of it can be used. I don’t want to sound like a broken record, but this also depends somewhat on the type of CCRC contract. With a LifeCare contract there may be only a certain portion of the monthly fee that’s a reimbursable long-term care expense. However, with a fee-for-service contract – where the resident pays the full cost for care services – a long-term care policy will typically cover these expenses up to the policy limit. The policy can be quite beneficial under either scenario. Under a LifeCare contract, a resident could conceivably pay less each month than they paid before receiving care services, once you factor in the long-term care coverage.

Regarding long-term care insurance, it’s important to also know how your policy classifies a continuing care retirement community, or even if it defines it at all. If the policy makes no mention of continuing care retirement communities, it’s advisable to speak with a representative of the insurance company to find out if there would be any restrictions. And you may even want to have it in writing.

Q: You’ll be at Pomperaug Woods for a speaking event on Wednesday, May 17. What do you hope will be the biggest take away from this event?

A: I hope the biggest take away is that there’s no single solution that’s right for everyone. Understanding the options, thinking through various scenarios and planning, is so important to avoid difficult and often costly situations in the future. Far too many families don’t do this, and it can lead to some tough decisions.