Spectrum Spring/Summer 2014

H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S | R E L AT I O N S H I P S | C O M M U N I T Y

Secrets Happiness

Enriched Senior Living SPRING | SUMMER 2014

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to

A PUBLICATION OF SPECTRUM RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES, LLC

Services we offer:

Home Safety Evaluations Incontinence Treatments • Massage Driving Assessments • Cognitive Testing Fall Prevention • Care Management And Much More!

As a one-of-a-kind occupational and physical therapy practice, we offer expertise, compassion, and dedication to clients with disease, disability or injury – all within the comfort of the client’s home and community.

Call today for more information 970-201-4331 • www.covellcare.com Visit us on Facebook!

MEDICARE & MEDICAID PROVIDER

Spectrum Retirement Communities, LLC offers flexible, affordable month-to-month rental apartment homes, enabling residents to enjoy the luxury they desire without a prohibitive financial commitment or buy-in fee. Lifestyle options include independent living, assisted living, transitional memory care and memory care. Spectrum Retirement Communities, LLC has multiple locations in 11 states across the country.

To learn more or to find a community near you, call 888-516-2188 or visit us online at www.spectrumretirement.com John Sevo MANAGING DIRECTOR Jeff Kraus MANAGING DIRECTOR Phillip Luebbers SENIOR VP & CFO Joe Mikalajunas SENIOR VP & COO Mike Longfellow SENIOR VP OF CONSTRUCTION & DEVELOPMENT

James Parker SENIOR VP OF DEVELOPMENT & CAPITAL MARKETS Kathleen MacDonald EDITOR AND VP OF MARKETING Erin Caswell VP OF FINANCIAL PLANNING & ANALYSIS Bernida Egging VP OF CONSTRUCTION Rebecca Givens VP & GENERAL COUNSEL Jane Goulette VP OF OPERATIONS, EASTERN DIVISION

WE OFFER • Companionship • Homemaking • Physical Assistance • Hygiene • Wellness • Transitional/Specialty Care

www.RightAtHome.net All caregivers are highly screened, trained, bonded and insured to meet your quality standards.

Kristi Oliver VP OF OPERATIONS, WESTERN DIVISION Tony Harbour CONTROLLER & VP OF FINANCE Brenda Hunt VP OF FUN Carole Hull VP OF RESIDENT CARE & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Taylor Moss VP OF MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEMS Ann Olson VP OF SALES Lynn Ornellas VP OF CONSTRUCTION ACCOUNTING SERVICES Lawrence Rugar VP OF CORPORATE RISK MANAGEMENT Dennis Van Wynsberghe VP OF DINING SERVICES Brendan Harrington PRESIDENT Lindsay Burke CREATIVE DIRECTOR Deborah Williams EDITOR Susan Humphrey PROJECT MANAGER

(800) 852-0857 WWW.HUNGRYEYEMEDIA.COM

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Welcome to

Spectrum TEN YEARS AGO, WE OPENED OUR first Spectrum community. In some respects, it seems like only yesterday; the time has flown by.

They say that happens when you’re having fun.

On the other hand, it’s almost unfathomable that a company could experience such tremendous growth in a single decade. Today Spectrum owns and operates communities in 11 states and has more than 1,400 team members. Seven new buildings are currently under construction and will be completed by 2015, bringing the total to 3,380 apartment homes. This past year was the most successful year to date for Spectrum; for the third year in a row, we maintained a 95 percent company-wide occupancy level—six percent higher than the industry average.

We attribute this progress and success to the hard work and perseverance of everyone in the company. From the top down, Spectrum team members are hands-on, quickly responding to feedback to best serve our residents.

Community teams are close-knit and dedicated to the seniors in their care. At the source of it all is our founding and guiding principle that luxurious senior housing can be affordable. We also believe that years spent in our communities can be some of our residents’ best. To that end, we pursue programming that facilitates social connections and human engagement.

MANAGING DIRECTORS JEFF KRAUS AND JOHN SEVO

In “You’re As Old As You Think,” (page 22) and “Flex Your Creative Muscles,” (page 10), we’re reminded that age is only a number, and you’re only old if you think and act so. Engaging in social and artistic activities can actually keep you feeling young and can improve your health as much as eating well and exercising.

Speaking of exercise, it’s time to redefine the term. For older adults, it’s more about staying active than it is about maintaining a formal workout routine. Need a little motivation to keep moving? Read “Move It or Lose It,” (page 5) and “The Power of Furry Friendship,” (page 7).

With our first decade under our belt, we are setting our sights on a very bright future. But even as we look ahead, we also take time to reflect on our residents’ rich pasts. Like Alfred Busicchia’s, whose touching story reminds us that love survives time, distance and even war (page 14).

We hope you enjoy this issue. Thank you for being an important part of Spectrum’s past and its bright future.

John Sevo and Jeff Kraus Managing Directors Spectrum Retirement Communities, LLC

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DISTINGUISHED RESIDENT: TIME-HONORED SERVICE After 68 years, WWII vet Bill Smith gets a special honor from a grateful nation.

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GREATEST GENERATION: REFLECTIONS OF WAR

As we commemorate the 70th anniversary of D-Day (June 6th) and celebrate the heroes who sacrificed so much for their country, we also remember the life changes and lessons that war can bring.

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FOREVER YOUNG

When you live life to the fullest like these residents have, you never age nor have a single regret.

ADVISOR

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THRIVING WHEN WE’RE SOCIAL

It turns out friends are more valuable than silver and gold.

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YOU’RE AS OLD AS YOU THINK

WELLNESS

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INSIDE SPECTRUM

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MOVE IT OR LOSE IT

The secrets of aging gracefully

THE POWER OF FURRY FRIENDSHIP Your next pet project? Get social

FLEX YOUR CREATIVE MUSCLES Engaging your artistic side is a key to vitality

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The number on your driver’s license is just a number.

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SPECTRUM CELEBRATES 10TH ANNIVERSARY

A lot has changed in the past decade but not SRC’s mission and values.

LOOKING AHEAD

Creve Coeur Assisted Living & Memory Care in St. Louis, Missouri

WELLNESS

Move it or

LOSE IT THE SECRETS OF AGING GRACEFULLY

By Lydia Manning

WHEN IT COMES TO STATING THE obvious, ‘exercise is good for you’ tops the list. It’s right up there with ‘don’t smoke’ and ‘eat your vegetables.’ We all know the virtues of being physically active. It prevents disease; it slows physical and mental decline and prolongs independence; it’s a mood and sleep enhancer. But just because we know better doesn’t mean we always do better, and in the case of exercise, the coin has two sides. Movement also has an inherent risk of injury, which, for older adults, can have compounding consequences and therefore a chilling effect. Too often, as age increases, so does our reluctance to maintain a workout routine.

But experts agree that being sedentary is riskier than moving. The benefits of movement far outweigh the risks of getting hurt. Indeed, maintaining your strength and balance decreases your risk for falls. It’s important, too, to make the distinction between exercise and physical activity.

Whereas exercise connotes a more structured, planned, and rigorous form of movement (e.g., water aerobics, yoga, or strength training that you might have done in your younger days), physical activity encompasses any endeavor that keeps you mobile (e.g., walking the dog, running the vacuum, or gardening). Both are good for you, but if a formal fitness routine feels overwhelming, you can still achieve health benefits by engaging in regular and moderate physical activity. You don’t have to run a marathon to glean the benefits of moving.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (the CDC), the ideal amount of physical activity for older adults is about two and a half hours per week. The CDC also report the following as benefits of regular physical activity for older adults: +W eight control +R educed risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome +R educed risk of some cancers +S trengthening of bones and muscles + I mprovement of mental health, mood and sleep patterns + I mprovement of ability to do daily activities and prevent falls + Increased chances of living longer SPECT RUM / SP RING | SU M M E R 2 0 1 4

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In 1987, John Rowe, an M.D., and Robert Kahn, a Ph.D. with the MacArthur Foundation Research Network introduced the concept of successful aging (also referred to as optimal aging, aging well, and healthy aging). They argued that to age successfully, individuals must have the following: absence of disease and disease-related disability, high functional capacity, and active engagement with life. Over the past several decades, successful aging has permeated popular and academic culture. It has become the gold standard for assessing later life.

Successful agers are those who have a quality life and report high levels of life satisfaction. Studies have shown that physical activity correlates to successful aging. In fact, researchers at York University in Toronto, Canada, found that older adults who are physically active are more than twice as likely, than their inactive peers, to age successfully. Researchers have also found that the onset of physical disability was postponed by five years among aging adults who remain active.

If physical activity is part of your everyday routine, then hats off to you. If not, here are some tips from the pros at the National Institute on Aging (NIA) that will motivate you to get moving.

As always, check with your physician before implementing any of these routines.

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VOLUNTEERS IN LINCOLN MEADOWS SAFETY SHEPHERD PROGRAM—WHO HELP EVACUATE THE COMMUNITY DURING FIRE DRILLS POSE WITH EINAR JENSEN, LIFE SAFETY EDUCATOR SOUTH METRO FIRE RESCUE AUTHORITY

1. INCORPORATE AT

LEAST ONE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY INTO EVERY DAY. Go for a stroll, take the stairs instead of the elevator, attend a dance class, plant some flowers.

Scheduling it into your day will help you stick to your plan.

2. IMPLEMENT A BUDDY SYSTEM. Involving others keeps you accountable.

3. KEEP IT FRESH. Try all

different types of physical activities that enhance endurance, strength, flexibility, and balance.

4. PLAN FOR DISRUP-

TIONS. There will be breaks in your routine for visits to family, vacations, or other pressing demands. Be flexible, and don’t be hard on yourself; trust that after the break you’ll get back into the routine.

Spectrum’s Fitness Round-Up While all of our communities promote healthy movement, activities do vary by location. Here is a sampling: A combination of strength/ cardio and stretching/balance classes as well as Tai Chi classes promoting deep breathing, balance, body awareness and relaxation.

Walking clubs that walk indoors during bad weather and outside when the weather is nice.

SpectraFit, dance and yoga classes throughout the month.

Rigden Farm has a Fitness Rewards Program that tracks fitness milestones and rewards participants for completing health screenings, medical appointments and healthy activities.

WELLNESS

the

Power of Furry

FRIENDSHIP YOUR NEXT PET PROJECT? GET SOCIAL Lydia Manning

IF SOMEONE OFFERED YOU A PILL THAT could lower your blood pressure and anxiety, boost your mood and immunity, improve your social life, and reduce your doctor visits by 30 percent with very few side effects, would you take it? What if they said you didn’t have to take a pill to get all those health benefits? Good news: You don’t. You only need to make room in your life for a furry friend.

Ample evidence suggests that owning or spending time with animals can make a person happier and healthier. Research has shown that exposure to

pets has positive benefits for older adults. We know that pet ownership is beneficial to psychological and emotional well-being and can enhance selfesteem while reducing the anxiety that can come with living alone or transitioning into a new living environment. Pets facilitate social engagement and stimulating connections. In addition, pet ownership has been proven to lower blood pressure, decrease the risk of diabetes, and significantly delay physical decline in seniors.

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for older adults. Pets can also reduce depression and serve as barriers to loneliness and LOUISE & MADDIE. social isolation while helping individuals deal with stress.

For example, the way a dog cocks his or her head or a cat’s loving purr in response to his owner’s voice can bring instant happiness. Giving your dog a loving pat on the head can bring a sense of calmness and an overwhelming feeling of contentment. Animals make us feel needed, and since we are wired for connection, this is important for all people but particularly for seniors.

PEGGY & GABBY. Until fairly recently—the past decade or so—pets were considered problematic and potential barriers to care in some assisted living and retirement communities. Many older adults were forced to give up their pets as they transitioned from independent living into retirement communities, a devastating loss for people undergoing so much change. In light of the increased research about the health benefits of pet ownership, more and more independent and assisted living communities in the United States have become amenable to pets. All Spectrum communities welcome domestic animals and, as a result, residents—those who own pets and even those don’t—are benefiting.

Some of the most surprising research suggests you needn’t own a pet to get the benefits of furry friendship. Spending just a few minutes in the presence of animals can produce the physiological responses mentioned above—lower blood pressure, reduced anxiety, etc. So even if bringing a cat, dog, bird or fish into your home doesn’t interest you, 8

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MICHELLE WITH BELLA & SCHMUTZLIE.

LUCILLE & JORDIE.

spending time with your friends’ and neighbors’ pets can boost your health.

If you are considering getting a pet, there are several important factors to keep in mind.

Can you commit to the daily walks and playtime most dogs need? Are you physically able to clean a kitty litter box? Puppies and kittens are often energetic with higher care demands, so consider adopting a healthy older animal. Get a pet with an easy and friendly temperament that will interact well with other animals and people.

Pets can enrich our lives. Our bonds with them are healing and our connections with them offer us sources of unconditional love and comfort. Pets live in the moment and encourage us to do the same.

Looking for a pet?

There are many options from breeders to shelters and adoption programs that work to match seniors with pets, such as The Pets for the Elderly Foundation, http://petsfortheelderly.org/.

BUCKY & BETTY WITH KIKI. .BEZZIE & CASEY.

DON & JEANETTE WITH TOBY. . LOUISE AND BEAU

.VINNIE & CHARLIE.

.CAROL & JAZZY.

RENA & BRANDI

MIDGE AND TEDDY.

.DELORES & OLIVER.

.BARB & SAMMY.

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LIFES T YLE

Flex Your

CREATIVE MUSCLES ENGAGING YOUR ARTISTIC SIDE IS A KEY TO VITALITY

By Dawn Carr

TRUE OR FALSE? CREATIVITY IS THE domain of the young.

If you answered true, it’s time to adjust your group participated in a weekly art class for two thinking. Consider, for example, that Thomas years; the control group didn’t take classes or engage Edison invented the telephone when he was 84; in creative endeavors. At the end of the study, the Pablo Picasso painted into his 90s; and Jessica subjects in the first group had better measures of Tandy won an Oscar at 80. If anything, our later health, reported fewer doctor visits, used fewer years—when we have more discretionary time and medications, had better mental health, and were a long retrospective—are the perfect time to reflect more active in a range of activities. with greater emotional clarNot sure how to get started?

“There is a fountain of youth: it ity about the life we’ve lived You probably don’t have to is your mind, your talents, the and the value of that life. Our look too far for inspiration and creativity you bring to perspectives might not be opportunities. Spectrum Retireyour life and the lives of people fresh, but they are informed. ment communities support and Artistic and creative endeavencourage their residents to tap you love. When you learn ors allow us to express our into their creativity. to tap this source, you will truly gratitude and wisdom and to Volunteer Carole Trauth have defeated age.” share it with others. leads a theater class at Three - S OPH IA LORE N In 2001, George WashingOaks Assisted Living, in Cary, ton University psychiatrist Gene Cohen conducted Ill. Carole encourages participants to express their a study to determine the value of creative endeavors creative sides through expressive poetry reading, in later life. He divided test subjects with similar writing and acting out short skits, and producing ages and demographics into two groups. Neither short plays and performances. In the fall of 2013, group had previous experience with the arts. One the group performed “Johnny Appleseed” for 10

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RESIDENTS AT RIGDEN FARM IN FORT COLLINS, COLO., GET IN TOUCH WITH THEIR INNER PICASSOS (BELOW), SOLDIERS SHOW THEIR GRATITUDE FOR THE CARE PACKAGES FROM LINCOLN MEADOWS IN PARKER, COLO. (BOTTOM)

first-graders at a nearby academy. In December, they performed “A Visit from St. Nicholas” for the same group.

In preparation, they worked alongside volunteers from a nearby high school to create props, costumes, and scenery for the performance that brought the poem to life. In addition to performances, the group also participates in expressive story time events, singing, and crafting with children.

Lincoln Meadows Senior Living in Parker, Colo., has a robust knitting group organized by Lisa Jensen.

Recently, the knitters teamed up with resident Lainey Hamrick to put together care packages for soldiers around the world. Several years ago, Lainey started a program called “Colorado Supporting Our Troops.”

Lainey started by going to churches and clubs to help

gather items and funds for the care packages. The relationship between the knitters and Lainey has been mutually beneficial. In addition to providing gifts that they make themselves, the knitters have also sold their items to make money to purchase additional supplies and care packages. The money they’ve raised offsets the cost of sending the care packages overseas.

This partnership is creative engagement at its best.

Like the performers at Three Oaks, the knitting group at Lincoln Meadows has found a craft that provides an opportunity for meaningful engagement and has an important impact on the lives of others.

Are you inspired yet? If you haven’t participated in a creative activity in your community, perhaps it’s time to give it a shot.

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D I S T I N G U I S H E D

R E S I D E N T

TIME-HONORED SERVICE AFTER 68 YEARS, WWII VET BILL SMITH GETS A SPECIAL HONOR FROM A GRATEFUL NATION. (Reprinted with permission from the South County Times, by Jamie Mowers)

WORLD WAR II veteran Bill Smith still has a June 3, 1945, newspaper clipping hanging on his living room wall. The wounded-in-action announcement in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch hangs next to a newer memento: A certificate of gratitude for his service that he received in 2013 after traveling on an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. Honor Flight was created to honor America’s war veterans. As part of its mission, the nonprofit organization transports vets, free of charge, to the nation’s capital to tour the war memorials and monuments that honor service members. Since its inception in 2005, Honor Flight has transported 98,500 veterans to Washington, D.C. Smith, 87, who lives at Southview Assisted Living and Memory Care with his wife Else, was one of 25 veterans from St. Louis who made the trip on Oct. 8, 2013.

SOUTHVIEW RESIDENT BILL SMITH

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On the day of the flight, veterans left Lambert International Airport at 6 a.m. for Washington, D.C. They spent the day touring the World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War memorials, as well as other memorials and monuments.

The World War II Memorial’s Freedom Wall of 4,048 gold stars pays tribute to American lives lost at war, while dozens of battle names and military campaign destinations

are also on display.

“It brought back a lot of memories,” Smith said.

He enlisted in the U.S. Navy on Jan. 15, 1944, but was deferred until Jan. 29, 1944.

“My birthday is Jan. 27, and I graduated from high school on Jan. 27, and then I went into the Navy on Jan. 29,” he said.

Smith attended boot camp in Idaho and boarded the USS Defense from San Francisco on

March 15, 1944.

In February of 1945, his ship had the dangerous task of removing mines from mine fields laid in the water to prevent ships from passing.

“We began sweeping mines off the coast of Iwo Jima before the Marines landed,” Smith recalled. “On March 23, 1945, a Japanese plane crashed into our ship, and I was injured.”

Smith was wounded when a metal ammunition box hit him in the back. He was then transferred to various ship hospitals and the hospital at Pearl Harbor before returning to the States.

“I was discharged on May 8, 1946, and I received a Purple Heart,” he said.

The Purple Heart is awarded to members of the armed forces who are wounded by an instrument of war in the hands of the enemy. It is specifically a combat decoration.

Glancing at the newspaper clipping on his wall, Smith said: “I came out OK.” The 220-foot USS Defense minesweeper had to be towed by another ship after being hit by the plane, which is depicted in another photo Smith has on display.

A few years after his time in the Navy, Bill married Else in 1949 and they had three children.

Smith is now proud to display his certificate

PHOTOS FROM SMITH’S YEARS IN THE NAVY DURING WORLD WAR II HANG PROUDLY NEXT TO HIS HONOR FLIGHT CERTIFICATE COMMEMORATING HIS RECENT VISIT TO WASHINGTON, D.C.

from the Honor Flight.

“I really liked seeing the memorials,” he said.

Kevin Smith, who escorted Bill to D.C., said his uncle was also touched by the thanks and fanfare the veterans received during their Honor Flight.

There were people to meet and greet them at the airport, strangers showed their gratitude in Washington, D.C., and they were welcomed home with a big fanfare that include salutes from past and present military members.

Bill Smith also appreciated the thank you letters from family members, friends and elementary school students that veterans were given to read on their flight home from Washington.

“I think the whole day was great, but I think the highlight was the letters from home,” Kevin Smith said. “When he started reading some of the letters from his daughter and other family members it was pretty neat. Then when we got home we rolled out through the Honor Guard and he saw the whole family there - that was really neat, too.”

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{ GREATEST GENERATION }

reflections of war As we commemorate the 70th anniversary of D-Day (June 6th) and celebrate the heroes who sacrificed so much for their country, we also remember the life changes and lessons that war can bring.

Alfred Busicchia

MOUNTAIN PARK SENIOR LIVING | AWHATUKEE, AZ.

ALFRED BUSICCHIA, who was born in Italy in 1920, came to the United States with his parents and older brother when he was 4 years old. The family settled in New York City, where his father established himself as a dressmaker. His uncle, a jewelry maker, also lived in the city. Alfred worked with his uncle as a jewelry designer until World War II broke out.

At 21, he joined the Army and was eventually sent to his home country, Italy. Occasionally he was assigned as the senior officer to drive with General Patton, but that assignment ended when they were in a car accident.

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Although he wasn’t driving, Alfred received the blame from Patton who believed it was the senior officer’s duty to tell the driver where to drive, when to stop, and when to let people in and out of the car. Alfred was fined $240 for the incident.

Alfred served in the Army for a total of 33 years, which included tours during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. He speaks five languages; English, Italian, French, Spanish and Arabic, and was assigned to the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) Intelligence Corps. During World War II his responsibilities included

breaking German codes. He retired as a lieutenant colonel.

Alfred met and married his wife, Antoinette, while he was stationed in Italy. She was an Italian citizen who worked for him. After the war, they returned to New York and had four

IN GOOD TIMES AND BAD At home, the 1940s were a time of rationing, food stamps, and designated driving days. It was a time of loss but also great national pride. Below some of residents reflect on WWII and its impact at home and abroad.

BARBARA DOMBROWSKI THREE OAKS, CARY, ILL.

daughters, four grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

Before going off to war, Alfred had been engaged to another woman named Clara.

However, Clara married someone else while he was away. Ironically, Clara’s sister-in-law married Alfred’s brother, so the two of them continued to see each other over the years at extended family gatherings. After Clara and Alfred lost their spouses, they dated for two years and, finally said ‘I do.’ With regret Alfred says, “I waited to marry her until the day before she died.” Clara’s daughter continues to call Alfred frequently, and he considers her his fifth daughter.

Alfred liked to design and make jewelry as a hobby and made Swarovski crystal tiaras for each of his four daughters for their weddings.

Alfred will be 94 this July.

WWII was life changing for Barbara in a good way. She was in the British Army; her husband was in the U.S. Army. They met, married, had a baby, and then returned to the States. Barbara and her baby spent nine days on ship and one day on train to reach their new home in Chicago.

She thought America was very different from Britain, but she didn’t have time to be homesick. She was too busy raising a family of five children.

MARY LOU CLARK PARKROSE ESTATES, LIVERPOOL, N.Y. Mary Lou was going to break up with her boyfriend during the war, but her mother told her she had to stay with him because his family owned a grocery store and they gave her family free coffee and food.

JANE BURTON PARKROSE ESTATES, LIVERPOOL, N.Y.

IRENE BRUSKI PINE RIDGE VILLAS OF SHELBY, SHELBY TOWNSHIP, MICH. Irene’s husband was in the U.S. Army. He came home on furlough a week before her birthday. The birthday was off to a good start, then they got word of victory over Japan.

It was August 14, 1945. WWII was over. “He didn’t have to go back,” Irene says. “It was the best birthday of my life.”

STAN SWARTZ PALOS VERDES, PEORIA, ARIZ. Stan remembers December 7, 1941, when he was on guard duty at Wheeler Army Airfield in Honolulu, Hawaii. He had two weeks left in the Army.

He recalls the flight of the planes on that Sunday morning when the bombs were dropped, and he could hear the sirens. He took his unit to the beach. They were the first to arrive. Eight months later, Stan and his Army buddies were headed to their station in New Zealand.

Jane’s husband was in the second invasion on D-Day. He eventually worked to help liberate prison camps. .

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FOREVER YOUNG

When you live life to the fullest like these residents have, you never age nor have a single regret.

THE YEAR THESE CENTENNARIANS WERE BORN, THE FIRST STEAMSHIP PASSED THROUGH the Panama Canal, Charlie Chaplin made his film debut in “Making a Living,” and Babe Ruth played in his first professional baseball game. Meanwhile, overseas, WWI began, ushering in more than three decades of war.

These Spectum Residents experienced it all. Here are some of their memories and words of wisdom.

What are the most important things in life?

What do you enjoy doing?

Good health and religion.

What keeps you going so strong today?

Going to the casino.

What matters most?

A cup of coffee.

Not being sick and in pain.

If you could do one thing in life again, what would it be?

What should one’s priorities be?

Go to church every Sunday.

What was the greatest adventure in your life?

Getting married and having two daughters.

Can you share some favorite memories from your childhood?

Playing in the streets in Detroit.

What did you do for a living?

I was a homemaker, and I worked on our farm. We grew gladiolas.

What did your parents do?

Owned a grocery store.

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I would do it all over the same.

Eleanore Matthews Pine Ridge of Hayes

Sterling Heights, MI Birthday: February 24, 1914

Did you marry? Yes. Where? St. Stanislaus Church in Detroit.

When? June 2, 1934.

Whom? Clarence Matthews

What role does attitude play in your health and longevity?

We met at Eastwood Park at a dance. We dated for one year before we got married.

If you keep a good attitude and visit your doctor twice a year, you will live a healthy life.

Any regrets? None.

What about exercise and diet in your life?

Go back to Rome.

Farm work was enough exercise.

If you could do anything today, what would it be?

Joseph “Joe” Nistor Pine Ridge Villas of Shelby Shelby Township, MI Birthday: March 1, 1914

What are the most important things in life?

Being honest, doing what is right, having religion in your life, and helping your neighbors.

What was the greatest adventure in your life?

In 1920, when I was 6 years old, I traveled from the U.S. to Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece, Bulgaria, Turkey and then Romania. We were going back to Romania to care for my ailing grandparents.

I stayed in Romania for 15 years.

In 1936, the U.S. had warned all citizens living or traveling abroad to come back to the U.S. because Hitler and Mussolini were starting problems. They told us that if we didn’t return immediately they wouldn’t be able to help us later if problems escalated. My parents stayed in Romania, but I returned to the U.S. It was very hard to leave my parents and four sisters. I still remember my

12-year-old-sister crying that I was leaving. I had no money, just the clothes on my back and an extra pair of socks. I was able to write letters to my family up until the war broke out December 7, 1941. Then they went kaput. No mail, no travel. When the war ended we were able to write again, after 1945. For four years, I had no communication with my parents or sisters. Romania became a communist country after the war. My youngest sister, who was 12 when I left Romania, is all I have left. She is now 89. We still talk on the phone.

Can you share some favorite memories from your childhood?

Fun in the summer, swimming and playing in the water. In the winter we would go sledding.

After I was 12, I loved to go see cowboy movies at the theater. I remember a man playing a piano, watching the picture and reading subtitles in Romanian. Also, we went to church every Sunday.

What did you do for a living?

In Romania, six years of school was all that was required. I studied to be a teacher, but I had to leave after one year of college because inflation skyrocketed, the government closed the banks, anything you owned was worth less. I did construction work and went to school three times a week to become a carpenter.

I made all the furniture in my mom’s house. Later on, I owned

a grocery store in Detroit, and we lived in the back of the store.

What did your parents do?

My dad owned a bar and a grocery store and a small shop that made candles. We had a lot of land and animals until the communists took over. Then my mom had to live in one room with four daughters.

What role does attitude play in your health and longevity?

I never smoked or drank. I lived healthy.

What about exercise and diet in your life?

Lou, Joe’s wife, comments: Joe was always standing. Standing in the grocery store, standing in the army, he didn’t sit much. Joe: I never ate anything out of a can.

What do you enjoy doing?

Being with my wife and my family. Playing poker and pinochle. I have been collecting stamps since the age of 8.

What keeps you going so strong today?

My family, kids and grandchildren. We are very close.

If you could do one thing in life again, what would it be?

After I got married, it was the best thing. I wouldn’t change anything. I had the best motherand father-in-law: They treated me like their own son. They took the place of my parents; I got my family back!

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What are the most important things in life?

Traveling. That is what my husband and I loved to do. We went on 16 cruises together. Eight of them were to Alaska!

What matters most?

Health. Because then you are able to do the things you want to do.

What should one’s priorities be?

Family. I have three sisters and one brother, and we loved visiting back and forth.

My husband’s family was not as large, so he liked having my big family, too.

What was the greatest adventure in your life?

Flying to Greece and visiting all of the Greek Islands. This was a three-week trip, and we also went to Egypt to see the pyramids as well as Israel and Turkey. It was the greatest trip we ever took.

What did you do for a living?

After I graduated high school, grandma sent me to Teacher’s College. I wanted to go to hair school but she said it was just a fad. I worked for US Steel for 36 years. First I was an inspector and inspected aircraft tubing.

I was then promoted and was in charge of all of the inspections. When the boys came back from the army, we ladies had to take jobs inside. I became 18

W W W. S P E C T R U M R E T I R E MENT. CO M

Faye Bali

Mountain Park Senior Living Phoenix, AZ Birthday: March 9, 1914

the assistant to the head of inspections.

other for 25 years. We played bridge together and still do. After I stopped driving, she would pick me up and take me to bridge.

If you could do one thing in life again, what would it be?

I would be a seamstress, so I could make anything I wanted to.

Did you marry?

What did your parents do?

Yes

They were farmers and my dad also owned a filling station. On the farm we grew everything we needed to make a living and also had cattle and sheep.

Where?

Las Vegas at the Little Church of the West.

When?

You have to eat right and exercise. I used to take a walk every night after dinner.

February 14, 1948. We arrived in Las Vegas on Friday the 13th, and there was no way that I was going to get married on Friday the 13th, so we were married the next day – Valentine’s Day.

What do you enjoy doing?

Whom?

What about exercise and diet in your life?

I like to sew and crochet. Neighbors sometimes bring me things that need to be altered. I learned to sew from my grandma.

What keeps you going so strong today?

Eating and sleeping – both in the right amount. I also have a lot of good friends. I have a friend, Ruth, who lives at Mountain Park and we have known each

Joe

Any regrets?

No. Absolutely none. Joe and I never had a fight in our life.

If you could do anything today, what would it be?

If I could do one thing, it would be to have Joe back, but I know I can’t do that. But I know he is waiting for me in heaven.

was a building contractor who worked on churches and homes.

Lucille Rochon

Pine Ridge of Garfield Clinton Township, MI Birthday: May 5, 1914

What are the most important things in life?

Family, God.

What matters most?

God’s plans, life.

What should one’s priorities be?

What do you enjoy doing?

Bingo and playing solitaire on the computer, game shows on TV.

What keeps you going strong?

God helps me.

Did you marry?

Yes

Where?

Marine City, MI.

When?

Doing what is right and raising children.

October 10, 1942.

What was the greatest adventure in your life?

Whom?

When my husband came home from the war (his draft number came up one day before war was declared).

Any regrets?

What did you do for a living?

I was a stay-at-home mom until my husband died. After that, I did office work for 10 years for the state.

What did your parents do?

Mom was a house cleaner. Dad

Stacey & Juli; six great grandchildren Maddie, Evan, Nicholas, Olivia, Hazel & Nathan.

If you could do one thing in life again, what would it be?

Go on a date with my husband.

He was the best. I could never replace him.

FAY NICHOLS,

RN BSN

Bringing Families Together Assisting in the relocation of a loved one

Dolph J. Rochon I am satisfied with my life and thank God every day. My family includes two daughters Kathy (Jim Miller) and Pat (Bill Jumisko); five grandchildren Eric, Craig, Karen,

Commerical Flight Nurse/Travel Companion In-State • Out-of-State • Abroad Facility • Home • Hospital Medical & Non-Medical

Fay Nichols, RN BSN 480-262-9915 www.nursetravelassist.com

SPECT RUM / SP RING | SU M M E R 2 0 1 4

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ADVISOR

IT TURNS OUT FRIENDS ARE MORE VALUABLE THAN SILVER AND GOLD.

By Dawn Carr

Thriving When

WE’RE SOCIAL

PARENTS OFTEN SPEND A SIGNIFICANT amount of energy trying to make sure that their children do well in school, excel at sports, go to college and get a degree that helps them land a “good job,” all of which will, ostensibly, lead to a good life. Learning skills and doing well in school and career is important, but what if what really matters is how well we interact with those we encounter along the way? According to Dr. George Vaillant, people with the skills to cultivate meaningful friendships are more likely to feel happy and 20

W W W. S P E C T R U M R E T I R E MENT. CO M

fulfilled in later life than those without.

In the 1930s and early 1940s, as World War II was unfolding, researchers at Harvard initiated The Harvard Men’s Study, which would become one of the longest-running aging studies ever conducted.

They selected 268 male sophomores to participate, then tracked them for 75 years. The goal: To identify the factors that facilitate successful careers and happiness in old age.

Although the study looked at a narrow field of subjects—young men of considerable privilege and

It’s never too late to reach out, make new friends, or get engaged in your community.

elite academic status—the findings are believed to be universal, especially for the subjects’ contemporaries who are now in their 80s and 90s.

So, what did Dr. Vaillant, who ran the test from 1972 until its completion in 2004, discover?

Cultivating meaningful, loving relationships is the secret to achieving success and happiness in old age. Moreover, income, social class, and career were completely unrelated to whether or not these men aged successfully into their late 70s and beyond.

Ultimately, reaching old age and being happy and healthy when they got there was directly related to the men’s social connections. Not only that, it was their ability to make meaningful connections that facilitated greater career success, higher income, and the like, not the reverse.

But wait; there’s more. Even men who didn’t maintain or benefit from strong friendships in

their earlier years were still able to benefit from social connections made later in life.

A growing base of scientific evidence suggests that once we make it to later life, eating well and exercising pale in comparison to engaging in meaningful activities with others when it comes to longevity and quality of life.

It’s never too late to reach out, make new friends, or get engaged in your community. So, perhaps it’s time to explore some ways you can better connect with others in your community. Consider introducing yourself to a neighbor you’ve not previously interacted with, attend a class you’ve not tried before, volunteer a couple hours a week for an organization that you believe in, and take the initiative to have regular visits with family and friends.

If it really is all about love, what can you do to get and give more of it?

PLEASE JOIN US FOR ANY OF OUR SPECTRUM EVENTS! Every month we will explore a different decade

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

JULY

1930-1939

1940-1949

1950-1959

1960-1969

Theme: There’s no place like home

Theme: USO

Theme: Cruisin’ Route 66

Theme: Peace and Change

Get a closer look at the 1939 film sensation!

Great entertainment with a slam-bang finish!

Come and get your kicks on!

Give peace a chance!

888.516.2188 • SpectrumRetirement.com SPECT RUM / SP RING | SU M M E R 2 0 1 4

21

ADVISOR

You’re as

OLD

as You

THINK THE NUMBER ON YOUR DRIVER’S LICENSE IS JUST A NUMBER.

By Dawn Carr

WHEN I WAS 3 OR 4 YEARS OLD, MY preschool class was asked to share stories about our parents, including important descriptors like their ages. I recall my mother’s horror when she heard my story. Although I’d described all the fun activities we did together such as painting, making cookies, and going grocery shopping, Mom latched onto the fact that I told my teacher I thought my mother was 78 years old.

She was 30-something.

Thirty years later, I made a similarly offensive and equally unintended gaffe. While giving a presentation about my research to a room of baby boomers, I referred to a test group in one of my studies as “old.” Although the audience found the results of my study compelling, they were offended that I defined “old” as 60 or older.

How in the world could 60 be considered old, they questioned? After all, they were in that age group and they weren’t old.

These two anecdotes are funny, but they’re 22

W W W. S P E C T R U M R E T I R E MENT. CO M

also telling. Whatever their chronological age, people don’t like to be perceived as older than they are. Where does “young” end and “old” begin? And why does it matter?

With the initiation of our Social Security program in 1935, “senior” was defined as 65 and older. But this distinction was relatively arbitrary; an age at which retirement could begin. But baby boomers are the first generation since the enactment of the Social Security program to push back retirement, whether for financial reasons (thank

A person’s perceived age has more influence on how long he or she will live than actual chronological age.

- DENMARK STUDY

you, economic downturn) or because they just don’t feel “old enough” to retire. People are living much further beyond that arbitrary age of 65.

For many people, the period beyond 65 is one of freedom from responsibilities, opportunities for activities previously put on hold due to childrearing and career life, and a chance to begin “really living” in some sense.

So does chronological age mean anything anymore? An individual who is 85 years old and walking six miles a day, attending lectures about

new topics of interest, and having friends over on Friday nights for cocktail hour is experiencing “old age” quite differently than a 65-year-old who has a range of health problems that limit her ability to leave the house. A recent study in Denmark suggests that a person’s perceived age has more influence on how long he or she will live than actual chronological age. So what really matters is how old we “feel.” Maybe the baby boomers are right to resist being called “old.” Is it time to form a new language with which to talk about age?

SPECT RUM / SP RING | SU M M E R 2 0 1 4

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INSIDE SPEC TRUM

Spectrum Celebrates

10th ANNIVERSARY A LOT HAS CHANGED IN THE PAST DECADE, BUT NOT SRC’S MISSION AND VALUES.

WHEN SPECTRUM RETIREMENT Communities first opened its doors 10 years ago, co-founders John Sevo and Jeff Kraus embarked on a journey that would ultimately transform the industry. Introducing a unique model that focuses on resident lifestyle, emphasizes community and quality care, and offers an affordable entry to luxurious living, the pair began with six communities and an ambitious growth plan.

“When we started Spectrum, we believed that seniors wanted not only to receive good value but they wanted to maintain the maximum amount of personal and financial flexibility in their lives,” says Kraus. “We felt that the market would welcome a luxurious yet affordable alternative that did not require an expensive buy-in or a long-term financial commitment.”

They were on to something big. Today, Spectrum has communities in 11 states—and counting. With a people-first approach that prioritizes a fun and healthful atmosphere, Spectrum continues to thrive. “We feel very fortunate that the Spectrum lifestyle and concept of affordable luxury has been so well received by our residents and their families,” Kraus says.

We combed the magazine archives and found these highlights from Spectrum’s first decade. From resident weddings to awardwinning jug bands, these snapshots reveal what matters most at Spectrum Retirement Communities: The residents.

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10 YEARS, THOUSANDS OF MILESTONES AND MEMORIES.

LILLIAN WALKS AGAIN! With help from the Spectrum therapy team and rehabilitation, Lillian walks after spending a year in a wheelchair.

HUGS COMMITTEE TAKES OFF! Spreading love and positivity, residents unite to welcome each other. Humanity United for Good (HUGS), indeed.

JUG BAND TAKES CENTER STAGE Spectrum residents perform to the delight of the local community.

SENIORS GOT TALENT SHOW Staying active and involved makes you a winner.

TEST YOUR MEDAL Downriver Senior Olympics nets medals for Spectrum residents.

THANKS TO THE MOST GENEROUS GENERATION! For your service to country and community we are proud to serve you!

FOUND A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE – AND LOVE – AGAIN Spectrum couple’s encounter with Cupid.

INNOVATION CELEBRATION Communities are committed to providing creative and inspiring activities.

TIME TO PURSUE YOUR PASSION Milton Meyer merges two units into home and art studio.

LAUGHTER YOGA HITS THE SPOT AN OBJECT IN MOTION…

It may not sound like exercise but those laughing muscles will get a workout – and lower blood pressure, stress and increase endorphins.

While she was reluctant to get involved, now there is no stopping her!

KITCHENETTES DELIGHT THE COMMUNITY MOTORCYCLE MAMA At 100+ years young, we celebrate life well lived

Performing Mary Poppins on the wash board, a wine glass or sauce pans knits community members closer together.

SPECT RUM / SP RING | SU M M E R 2 0 1 4

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INSIDE SPEC TRUM

Looking AHEAD CREVE COEUR ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE IN ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI

2nd Annual

JUS T E A S T OF OLI VE Boulevard and 270 in West St. Louis County, Spectrum Retirement’s latest Missouri community is slated to open in late fall of 2014. Creve Coeur Assisted Living & Memory Care will be the fourth community in the St. Louis area but the fifth to break ground in Missouri.

Named after the community it will reside in, Creve Coeur Assisted Living & Memory Care will boast all the care and amenities known to the Spectrum family.

Initially a stage-coach stop along Olive Boulevard, the city of Creve Coeur (named

SPECTRUM CHOPPED COMPETITION

The Chopped Competition is an annual cooking challenge that allows our Directors of Dining Services to tap into their creative side. This team-building exercise prepares them for industry changes and allows them to experiment with seasonal flavors and new products entering the market.

As you view the photos of the final product you can see that our residents are the ones who truly benefit!

We look forward to continuing this popular tradition every year to honor all the great work they do year-round in serving our residents.

SpectrumRetirement.com 26

W W W. S P E C T R U M R E T I R E MENT. CO M

after the Creve Coeur Lake, which means “broken heart” in French) has developed into a thriving community in Central St. Louis and is home to a rich culture and beautiful landscape. With numerous shopping centers and outdoor activities in close proximity, Creve Coeur Assisted Living & Memory Care is sure to keep its residents living active and enriching lives. Surrounded by both modern and historic neighborhoods, Creve Coeur has taken special initiative to preserve its unique history.

Different attributes of this can be seen throughout the city, such as the 200-year-old Hackmann and Clester cabins on Conway Park. With a number of schools, shopping centers, houses of worship and more, everything you’ll need is just a few minutes away from this new community.

Creve Coeur Assisted Living & Memory Care will mirror its sister community, HighPointe Assisted Living & Memory Care in Denver, Colo., as it will be the second Spectrum community to

have urban-style architecture. Four-stories high, this community will be home to approximately 86 residents. Creve Coeur will feature the finest of amenities, such as stainless steel appliances, stateof-the-art fitness and physical therapy center, a theater, meeting rooms and much more.

Recognizing the limitations of a one-size-fits-all approach, Creve Coeur Assisted Living & Memory Care will offer assisted living, transitional memory care and memory care. With a staff trained and ready to provide all residents and their families with the individual services and needs to promote physical, intellectual and social health, Creve Coeur will manage 60–70 full- and part-time employees.

Call 314-656-7578 or visit us at www.crevecoeurassistedliving.com. We look forward to meeting you.

Visit www.spectrumretirement.com for more information on Creve Coeur Assisted Living and Memory Care

Contact us for a complimentary one hour coordination consultation!

Do you want your loved one to remain independent for as long as possible?

Do you need to move a loved one but don’t have time to organize the move?

Can you or a loved one no longer safely reside in your home?

Senior1Care is the solution!

We provide Home Care Services by our trained Caregivers

317-692-1836 • www.Senior1care.com 11805 N. Pennsylvania Street, Suite #103 Carmel, IN 46032 SPECT RUM / SP RING | SU M M E R 2 0 1 4

27

Actual Spectrum Residents

This feels like home.

SM

NORTHEAST COMMUNITIES

MIDWEST COMMUNITIES, CONT.

Gardens at Westlake - Westlake, OH Maple Heights - Allen Park, MI Parkrose Estates - Liverpool, NY Pine Ridge Garfield - Clinton Township, MI Pine Ridge Hayes - Sterling Heights, MI Pine Ridge Plumbrook - Sterling Heights, MI Pine Ridge Villas of Shelby - Shelby Township, MI

Meadow Brook - Fishers, IN - Now Leasing!

Park Meadows - Overland Park, KS Shawnee Hills - Shawnee, KS Southview - Affton, MO Three Oaks - Cary, IL Westview at Ellisville - Ellisville, MO

MIDWEST COMMUNITIES

Crescent Park - Eugene, OR - Coming Soon!

Carmel - Carmel, IN - Coming Soon!

Cedar Lake - Lake Zurich, IL - Now Leasing!

Crestview - Crestwood, MO Creve Coeur - Creve Coeur, MO - Now Leasing!

Homestead at Hickory View - Washington, MO

Please call or visit today!

(888) 516-2188 SpectrumRetirement.com

SPECTRUM RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES

NORTHWEST COMMUNITIES WEST COMMUNITIES

Gardens at Ocotillo - Chandler, AZ - Coming Soon!

HighPointe - Denver, CO - Now Open!

Lakeview - Lakewood, CO Lincoln Meadows - Parker, CO Mountain Park - Phoenix, AZ Palmilla - Albuquerque, NM - Now Open!

Palos Verdes - Peoria, AZ Peakview - Centennial, CO - Coming Soon!

Rigden Farm - Ft. Collins, CO

Independent Retirement Living Assisted Living Transitional Memory Care Memory Care