FEATURE: SOCIAL WELL-BEING FOR SENIORS: THE ROLE OF FAMILY AND CAREGIVERS
As we age, maintaining good physical health often becomes a priority. However, one aspect of aging we often overlook is social well-being, which is equally important for overall health. Social health plays a significant role in the overall well-being of seniors, influencing their mental health, quality of life, and even their physical health. For older adults, the social connections they maintain—or lack—can make a significant difference in their happiness, fulfillment, and longevity.
March is here. Our allergy medications are sitting front and center on the bathroom counters, and there is a certain hopefulness in the air as temperatures climb and the sun abounds. We’ll ignore the rainy days or at least appreciate the ultimate outcome: life in bloom.
This month, we’re all about improving health and wellbeing. In our feature, we explore the role of family and caregivers in the seniors’ social wellbeing. It’s easy to say (or think): you need to get out and be social! It’s harder for people to actually get up, get out and get on with it. How can we, as loved ones and caregivers, support seniors in making these important connections?
In this month’s Ask the Expert, AOS Care Management Care Manager Kate Pomplun helps a reader understand his father’s anger and aggression related to his dementia diagnosis. Pomplun explains what may be happening in his father’s brain as well as offering tips for handling his dad’s behavior so everyone feels better.
Amy Phariss, Editor-in-Chief
Well, it’s official: fall is here. I had my first pumpkin-spiced latte just ture dipped low enough to merit a fleece.
Don’t worry. It was decaf.
In Mental Health Matters, Amy Phariss explores the top 10 myths about aging she sees as a licensed therapist. Many myths keep people from seeking help and support, and Phariss dispels these myths and explains how mental health matters for all of us, no matter our age.
October is a gentle month. There are constant reminders of change. we are lucky, toward each other. We have lingering conversations over the flames flicker. Smoke dances around us in a circle. We zip our jackets
In this month’s feature, we’re starting an important conversation: care community for ourselves or a loved one? Fox Hollow Senior Robin Hutchings offers inside perspective for making this decision.
We’re also exploring support groups for caregivers, who need as much support as possible for the hard work (both physical and mental) they engage in. AOS Care Management Care Manager Kate Pomplun offers suggestions and insight.
In Ask the Expert, Amy Natt answers a reader’s question regarding away without any estate planning. Without a will or access to important
Physical therapist Dr. Sara Morrison of Total Body Therapy and Wellness potential diagnostic tools used in physical therapy to help diagnose these tools differ from what other doctor’s offices may offer.
Finally….we’re including a gluten-free, high protein recipe featuring a spring highlight: asparagus! You could easily swap out another veggie, if asparagus isn’t your “thing.”
I’m going to agree with Nathaniel Hawthorne this month, who wrote:
I cannot remember ever quoting Lady Bird Johnson, but there’s a first time for everything!
I cannot endure to waste anything so precious as autumnal sunshine spent almost all the daylight hours in the open air.
"Where flowers bloom so does hope."
Here’s to enjoying the October sunshine, falling leaves and daylight
Kate Pomplun, LMSW, CMC | kate@agingcaresolutionsnc.com
Q: My dad’s dementia has led to moments of anger and aggression—how can I de-escalate these situations without upsetting him more?
A: There are many tough aspects about dementia progression and difficult/angry/aggressive behaviors are some of the toughest. They are heartbreaking, especially when it’s very different from the person’s “normal” or pre dementia personality.
Here are some factors to consider:
1) It’s important to evaluate whether or not there is an underlying medical issue causing pain or discomfort which often leads to agitation and possibly aggression. Every situation is different but some common factors could be a urinary tract infection, pain from arthritis or similar diagnosis, mouth/tooth pain, untreated stomach or digestion discomfort. With cognitive decline also comes heightened challenges in diagnosing issues, but taking notes about symptoms and behaviors and advocating for them in medical appointments can help.
2) Even if a person has a history of anger, it’s important to remember the dementia disease changes their brain’s abilities to process inputs and outputs. Most often a person is not acting this way on purpose, but is a result of (or can be heightened by) the disease.
3) You may not be able to prevent all outbursts of anger or aggression, but, as mentioned above, taking notes about patterns and symptoms may help prevent some occurrences or give hints about how to de-escalate. Pay attention to the time of day these issues may occur, whether or not a person is hungry, tired, cold, bored, is being told to bathe, needs exercise etc. If you can prevent some of this type of discomfort, confusion, unbalance, it could reduce instances.
When it’s not possible to prevent:
Remember the part of the brain used to logically understand and think through behavior and its consequences is not functioning. So, arguing with your dad or trying to talk him into a better option will be difficult. (You probably already noticed this!)
If his anger or agitation is brought on by conversations like “you didn’t tell me we were going to the doctor today…”, even though you just reminded him that morning. Most often, you’ll be better off simply taking the blame and responding with patience and kindness: “I’m sorry dad, I can be forgetful sometimes, I think we should go ahead and start getting ready even though I forgot to remind you…”
Research shows that re-directing is often effective. There may be no discoverable rhyme or reason to his agitation. Try to redirect him to a task he enjoys such as looking at a familiar photo on the wall or album, playing his favorite music, offering a snack, going for a walk, talking about his favorite hobby, asking him to tell you about a loved one (this is especially effective if he is seeking out someone like a wife or boss at work).
Lastly, some people benefit from medication to assist with these behaviors. Again, taking notes about patterns of behavior will be helpful in advocating for the right type with your dad’s practitioners. It’s best to start with small dosages, be aware of side effects, and to consider other medications and chronic conditions. He may need more care or supervision while the best dose and medication are being figured out.
Again, there is no one size fits all solution, but thinking about the whole person, who he has been and what has brought him joy in his life, can help as tools for redirecting and de-escalating. You can even share these key tips with others involved in his care or who visit.
SOCIAL WELL-BEING FOR SENIORS: The
Role of Family and Caregivers
Family members and caregivers play a crucial role in ensuring seniors maintain social engagement and strong social ties. In this article, we’ll explore how families and caregivers can foster social well-being in seniors, the benefits of these efforts, and the challenges that may arise. We’ll also provide practical strategies for both families and caregivers to help older adults maintain healthy social connections.
THE IMPORTANCE OF SOCIAL WELLBEING FOR SENIORS
As so many of us know, social well-being is determined by the quality and quantity of our social relationships, and social well-being is intricately linked directly to overall health. It’s hard to have balanced, holistic good health without having healthy, intact relationships and exposure to social activities and interaction. Yet, as we age, the social fabric of our lives often weakens. We lose friends through moves, deaths, illness or simply life circumstances. We find it more challenging to make new friends, and we sometimes find ourselves isolated and alone. With isolation often comes depression, and with depression comes a desire for isolation. It can be a challenging chicken-and-egg problem to solve.
For seniors, social engagement has been shown to help prevent depression, reduce the risk of cognitive decline, and improve physical health outcomes.
AS WE’VE NOTED IN ONC ARTICLES THROUGHOUT THE YEARS,
STUDIES SUGGEST THAT SENIORS WHO ARE SOCIALLY ENGAGED HAVE LOWER RATES OF CHRONIC ILLNESSES, SUCH AS HEART DISEASE, AND THEY TEND TO LIVE LONGER LIVES THAN THOSE WHO ARE SOCIALLY ISOLATED.
Not only are their lives longer, but most seniors with healthy social lives and engagement report a higher quality of life. As Abraham Lincoln famously said, “In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count; it’s the life in your years.” Social connection adds a lot to that life.
Social connections provide emotional support, increase feelings of belonging, and help alleviate the stress that often comes with aging. In fact, maintaining a strong social network can act as a protective factor against loneliness, which has become a growing concern among older adults. The National Institute on Aging reports that approximately 28% of seniors aged 65 and older are socially isolated, with a lack of social interaction increasing the risk of serious health issues like depression, high blood pressure, and a weakened
immune system.
Last month, we offered ONC readers an assessment for the 8 Areas of Wellness, including social wellbeing. For many of us, when we consider how to increase our scores, we might consider joining a club or reaching out to an old friend. We think about meeting someone for coffee or adding another game of golf. But for many seniors, these options are limited. We then consider how we can all help each other and what that looks like for us individually a well as collectively.
We ask…..
How can we, as a community, help create stronger social bonds and connection rather than leaving it up to the individual? What are the roles of caregivers and family members in helping seniors increase social wellbeing?
THE ROLE OF FAMILY IN PROMOTING SOCIAL HEALTH
Family members are often the first line of support for seniors in maintaining social health. They play an integral role in fostering connection by providing companionship, encouraging social interactions, and even helping organize and facilitate activities that keep seniors engaged such as family dinners, attending events or including seniors in outings like tagging along to the pumpkin patch or apple orchard.
Here are some ways family members can actively support their loved ones’ social well-being:
1. Regular Visits and Meaningful Conversations
For many seniors, family visits provide essential social interaction. Regular visits not only combat loneliness, but they also offer an opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations that are both mentally stimulating and emotionally rewarding.
FAMILY MEMBERS CAN SUPPORT
SENIORS BY SIMPLY BEING PRESENT, ACTIVELY LISTENING, AND SHOWING GENUINE INTEREST IN THEIR LIVES.
No Man Is an Island
JOHN DONNE
No man is an island, Entire of itself; Every man is a piece of the continent, A part of the main. If a clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less, As well as if a promontory were: As well as if a manor of thy friend’s Or of thine own were.
Any man’s death diminishes me,
Because I am involved in mankind. And therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; It tolls for thee.
This helps seniors feel valued and understood, reducing feelings of isolation. Seniors have much to add to the overall conversation, from wisdom of decades of life to little tidbits about how to get along in a complicated world. Making time for these conversations is rewarding for everyone.
2. Connection with Friends and Community
Family members can assist seniors in maintaining connections with their wider social circles, whether it be friends, neighbors, or community groups. For example, setting up video calls or helping seniors attend social events, such as family gatherings or community activities, can make a big difference. Many older adults struggle with mobility or technology, so assisting them with using smartphones, tablets, or computers to connect with others remotely can ensure they stay socially engaged. Try to be patient and slow down when helping seniors with new technology. There’s a learning curve for any of us over 15!
3. Participation in Family Activities
Family members can help integrate seniors into family gatherings and daily activities, allowing them to be involved and engaged. Simple activities such as cooking meals together, taking walks, or even playing board games can provide opportunities for both socialization and physical activity, which is important for seniors’ well-being and a key part of family integration and bonding.
4. Emotional Support
Emotional support from family members can help seniors cope with the stresses of aging, whether it be health challenges, grief, or changes in lifestyle. When seniors feel emotionally supported, they are more likely to maintain positive social connections, which in turn improves overall well-being. Family members can offer reassurance, empathy, and encouragement, particularly when seniors are facing challenges that may threaten their sense of connection to others.
AS WE AGE, WE DON’T FEEL LESS, STRUGGLE LESS OR SOMEHOW MAGICALLY LET STRESSFUL EVENTS ROLL OFF OUR BACKS. WE ALL NEED SUPPORT, AT ANY AGE. AND WE CAN ALL BE SUPPORTIVE, AT ANY AGE.
THE ROLE OF CAREGIVERS IN PROMOTING SOCIAL HEALTH
Caregivers also play an essential role in fostering social well-being for seniors. Caregivers are often tasked with
assisting with daily activities such as bathing, eating, or managing medications, but they also play a significant role in maintaining the emotional and social health of older adults. Whether a caregiver is a family member or a professional, they are in a unique position to facilitate social interactions and provide companionship. Here are several ways caregivers can help:
1. Providing Companionship
One of the primary roles of a caregiver is to provide companionship. Simply spending time with seniors can help mitigate the feelings of isolation that many older adults experience. Caregivers can engage seniors in conversation, assist with hobbies, or even accompany them on outings to social events or community spaces. A caregiver’s presence can provide comfort and a sense of security, helping seniors feel less lonely and more connected.
2. Encouraging Participation in Group Activities
Caregivers can encourage seniors to participate in group activities that foster socialization. Many communities offer senior centers or local organizations that host events, classes, and gatherings for older adults. Caregivers can help facilitate transportation and assist in ensuring seniors can take full advantage of these opportunities. Participating in group activities helps seniors build friendships, discover new interests, and feel a sense of belonging. In one research study, researchers found that gender-diverse groups were associated with “the best profile of health” (Zaitsu, 2018). So don’t be afraid to add on groups with both men and women!
3. Promoting Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteering can be a highly rewarding experience for seniors, offering both social benefits and a sense of purpose. Caregivers can help seniors find volunteer opportunities that match their interests, abilities, and physical limitations. Whether it’s helping at a local food bank, reading to children, or participating in environmental clean-ups, volunteering allows seniors to interact with others while making meaningful contributions to their community.
4. Organizing Social Outings
Caregivers can take on the role of social coordinator, helping seniors organize or participate in outings that encourage socialization. Trips to the theater, museums, or even visits to parks and restaurants can provide valuable opportunities for seniors to engage in enjoyable activities with others. If a senior is housebound or has mobility limitations, caregivers can help arrange virtual tours, video calls with loved ones,
or online group activities that keep seniors socially connected from home. Thanks to technology, we have more options than ever to engage with the world. And remember, according to research, the more social outings a senior engages in, the lower the levels of depression they experience (Gao, 2024).
CHALLENGES OF SOCIAL ENGAGEMENT FOR SENIORS
While there are many benefits to fostering social connections for seniors, it is not always easy. Seniors may face numerous barriers to social engagement, including mobility issues, health challenges, lack of transportation, or even a fear of being a burden to others. For family members and caregivers, understanding these challenges is crucial for offering appropriate support. When we understand what may be limiting someone’s ability to engage and connect, we can often find simple solutions to bridge that gap.
1. Physical Limitations
Many seniors experience physical limitations that make it difficult for them to participate in social activities. Chronic pain, mobility issues, or other health conditions can make it hard for older adults to attend social events or travel to meet family and friends. Family members and caregivers can help by organizing in-home visits, arranging transportation, or finding activities that accommodate their loved ones’ physical abilities. This may take some trial and error, and there can be some frustration involved. But the joy that comes from being able to overcome limitations and get out of the house is significant. Finding creative ways to deal with physical limitations is definitely worth the time and effort.
CARLOS MIGUEL PRIETO, MUSIC DIRECTOR
CARLOSMIGUELPRIETO
2. Cognitive Decline
Cognitive decline, including conditions such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, can make it more difficult for seniors to engage in social interactions. Family members and caregivers need to be patient and understanding when engaging with seniors experiencing cognitive challenges. Communication strategies, such as using simple language, offering frequent reminders, and engaging in familiar activities, can help seniors feel more comfortable and connected.
3. Fear of Burdening Others
Some seniors may hesitate to ask for social interaction or help from family members and caregivers due to a fear of being a burden. In fact, during research interviewing over 50 seniors, 46% of them spontaneously mentioned or used the word “burden” in the interviews (Cahill, 2009). Feeling like a burden in a legitimate and common fear among many of us, older adults especially. It is important for caregivers to reassure seniors that they are not a burden and that their well-being is important. Regular emotional check-ins and open communication can help ease these feelings.
CONCLUSION
THU, APR 10 | 7:30PM OWENS AUDITORIUM, BRADSHAW PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, PINEHURST
Carlos Miguel Prieto, conductor
Your North Carolina Symphony led by Music Director Carlos Miguel Prieto performs Mozart’s last symphony, one of the greatest of all time: Symphony No. 41, “Jupiter.”
The role of family and caregivers in promoting the social well-being of seniors is crucial. Through companionship, encouragement, and support, family members and caregivers help ensure older adults are socially engaged, mentally healthy, and emotionally supported. In recognizing the importance of social connections, understanding possible barriers, and helping foster social interaction, families and caregivers can make a profound difference in the quality of life for seniors.
Ultimately, the well-being of seniors is not just about addressing physical needs but also about ensuring seniors continue to feel valued, connected, and part of their communities. Families and caregivers can contribute to creating a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life for seniors, making their aging years more vibrant and meaningful.
References:
Cahill E, Lewis LM, Barg FK, Bogner HR. “You don’t want to burden them”: older adults’ views on family involvement in care. J Fam Nurs. 2009 Aug;15(3):295-317. doi: 10.1177/1074840709337247. Epub 2009 May 27. PMID: 19474397; PMCID: PMC2825742. Gao D, Li R, Yang Y. The impact of social activities on mental health among older adults in China. Front Public Health. 2024 Aug 21;12:1422246. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1422246. PMID: 39234098; PMCID: PMC11371613. Zaitsu M, Kawachi I, Ashida T, Kondo K, Kondo N. Participation in Community Group Activities Among Older Adults: Is Diversity of Group Membership Associated With Better Self-rated Health? J Epidemiol. 2018 Nov 5;28(11):452-457. doi: 10.2188/jea.JE20170152. Epub 2018 Apr 28. PMID: 29709889; PMCID: PMC6192976.
MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS: MYTHS ON MENTAL HEALTH AND AGING
Amy Phariss, LCMHCA, Clarity Counseling NC
As a therapist, I see clients in all age ranges. I have worked with clients as young as five years old, and I have also worked with clients in their 80s and 90s. It’s one of the best parts of my job: I get to hear stories from every generation! One thing I notice, however, is a reluctance for older adults to come to therapy or to feel comfortable with the process. I often hear clients say, of their parents, “Oh, my father would never come to therapy.” Or “My parents say they’ve made it this far without therapy, so they don’t see the need.” However, clients usually say this with sadness because they want their loved ones to feel better, and they want better relationships and connection with everyone in the family, no matter the age.
As we age, mental health becomes an increasingly important aspect of overall well-being. However, there are many misconceptions about mental health and aging that can prevent older adults from seeking support. These myths often lead to stigma and misunderstandings, making it harder for seniors to address their mental health concerns. In this article, we’ll debunk 10 common myths related to mental health and aging, highlighting the importance of emotional wellbeing for everyone.
Here are 10 of the most common myths about mental health and aging I see as a licensed therapist:
MYTH #1: MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS ARE A NATURAL PART OF AGING.
While mental health challenges may increase with age, they are not an inevitable part of getting older. Many older adults maintain good mental health throughout their lives, and mental health issues are often not related to aging but to life circumstances, to childhood trauma or to lack of coping skills. These can happen to anyone, at any age.
MYTH #2: OLDER ADULTS ARE LESS LIKELY TO EXPERIENCE MENTAL ILLNESS. Mental illness can affect anyone, regardless of age. Conditions like depression, anxiety, and dementia are common in older adults, though they are often overlooked or misdiagnosed. In fact, according to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), older adults make up 22% of suicide deaths in the United States, even though they make up only 16% of the population. The CDC reports, “The largest percent increase in suicide rates between 2001 and 2021 occurred among men ages 55–64 and among women ages 65–74.”
MYTH #3: DEMENTIA IS INEVITABLE AS PEOPLE AGE.
While dementia becomes more prevalent with age, it is not a guaranteed outcome. Many older adults retain their cognitive function well into their later years. And many of the signs and symptoms of dementia are similar to those of mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and PTSD. It’s important to find the correct diagnosis and treat the actual issues.
MYTH #4: MENTAL ILLNESS IS A SIGN OF WEAKNESS.
Mental health issues are medical conditions that can affect anyone. They are not a reflection of a person’s strength or character. While there can certainly be generational beliefs related to therapy or medication to treat mental health issues, these beliefs can be explored and challenged so that everyone can benefit from support.
MYTH #5: OLDER ADULTS WITH MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS ARE DIFFICULT TO TREAT.
Older adults can benefit from treatment for mental health issues, just like younger individuals. Older adults also have a wealth of experience and wisdom to pull from and draw on. Older adults also focus often on meaning and purpose, family connection and processing loss because of aging. These are rich areas for growth.
MYTH #6: SOCIAL ISOLATION DOESN’T IMPACT MENTAL HEALTH IN OLDER ADULTS.
Isolation can significantly affect an older adult’s mental health, leading to depression, anxiety, and even cognitive decline. We all need connection to thrive. This doesn’t change as we age.
MYTH #7: OLDER ADULTS DON’T HAVE THE ABILITY TO ADAPT TO NEW THERAPIES OR TREATMENTS.
Many older adults are open to and benefit from newer mental health treatments, including therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes. In fact, older adults often have the time, energy, focus and environment to make sustainable changes in their lives, both physical and mental.
MYTH #8: MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES IN OLDER ADULTS ARE ALWAYS RELATED TO PHYSICAL HEALTH PROBLEMS. While physical health can influence mental health, many mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, happen independently and may require specific mental health treatment. Many times, we think people are “cranky” or grumpy
because of chronic pain. We think our dad is missing out on sleep because his back hurts, but changes in sleep or irritability can be related to depression and/or anxiety, among other mental health concerns.
MYTH #9: THERAPY OR COUNSELING IS ONLY FOR YOUNGER PEOPLE.
Therapy can be highly beneficial for older adults, helping them cope with life changes, loss, and other challenges they face in later years. We never stop learning or growing. Life never stops throwing us curve balls. And it’s important to remember that challenges from earlier in our lives can linger well into our later decades. Many clients work on issues from childhood or early adult years once they have the time to focus, which can be in their 60s and beyond.
MYTH #10: OLDER ADULTS WITH MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS ARE NOT ABLE TO LIVE INDEPENDENTLY.
Many older adults with mental health issues can live independently with proper support, whether through therapy, medications, or community resources. Independent living may be the thing that encourages older adults to seek therapy, as a way to support themselves and their overall health and wellbeing.
If you or a loved one is struggling with a mental health issue or wants to explore changes in mental health, scheduling an appointment with your primary care physician is a great place to start. They can assess your overall mental health and refer you to appropriate professionals. You may need to see a counselor, a social worker, a neuropsychologist or a psychiatrist. There are many options for support, and reaching out is the first step.
CAREGIVER CORNER: CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPS
Kate Pomplun, LMSW, CMC | kate@agingcaresolutionsnc.com
Q: Are there support groups or online communities where I can connect with other caregivers?
A: Yes!
Although the social interaction of meeting in person can be therapeutic, the schedule of a caregiver can make it difficult to physically attend, so an online community may be a helpful option.
AARP has a helpful article with resources, including tips and instructions for online support including the use of social media AARP Group Helps Caregivers Relieve Stress, Give Back
Many online groups are distinguished based on the care receiver’s condition, but don’t let that limit you.
These are some trustworthy options to start:
• If you’re caring for someone with dementia, the Alzheimer’s Association has resources: HomeALZConnected
• Parkinson’s specific: PD Library | Parkinson’s Foundation
• For matters relating to mental health: Support Groups | NAMI
ACROSS
I) Luxurious health retreats
5) Rubber tube
9) City near Great Salt Lake
14) Walesa of Poland
15) Great Lake
16) 66, for one
17) Geometry calculation
18) 100 dinars
19) Athletic shoe attachment
20) Stuffed things
23) Head out to sea
24) Line up the crosshairs
25) Abscam investigator
28) Well-chilled
31) Banned bug-killer
34) Permitted by law
36) "_ for the money ... "
37) Callas number
38) Stuffed things
42) Insect feeler
43) "Are we there_?"
44) Brown shade
45) Crafty, like a fox
46) Become extinct
49) How-_ (instructional books)
50) Cafeteria dispenser
51) "If all_ fails ... "
53) Stuffed things
61) Lacking human warmth
62) Early bird's breakfast
63) Pesky insect
64) European ermine
65) Garden with a snake
66) Volcanic discharge
67) Wrongful acts, in law
68) Hindu outfit
69) Picture pitcher
DOWN
I) Noisy closing
2) Andean land
3) "Bullets," to a poker player
4) Persian pooh-bahs
5) Medal-worthy
6) Baltimore pro
7) "The King and I" kingdom
8) Sea wrigglers
9) Prom dress ornament, often
10) Robot of Jewish folklore
11) Hamilton vs. Burr, for one
12) And others, for short
13) Shows a profit of
21) Indian yogurt dish
22) City of witch hunts
25) Pilots let them down
26) Twofold
27) Without compassion
29) Terra-_ (fired clay)
9) City near Great Salt Lake
14) Walesa of Poland
15) Great Lake
16) 66, for one
30) Lennon's wife
17) Geometry calculation
3 l ) French right
18) 100 dinars
32) San_, Calif.
33) Uses a stun gun on
19)Athletic shoe attachment
35) Sitter's handful
20) Stuffed things
3 7) Donned the feedbag
23) Head out to sea
39) Flunking a polygraph
24) Line up the crosshairs
40) "Amazing Grace" verse ender
41) Deep gulf
25)Abscam investigator
46) Pub servings
28) Well-chilled
47) One donning something
31)Banned bug-killer
44) Brown shade
45) Crafty, like a fox
46)Become extinct
49) How_ (instructional books)
50) Cafeteria dispenser
51) "If all _ fails "
53) Stuffed things
61) Lacking human warmth
62) Early bird's breakfast
63) Pesky insect
64) European ermine
65) Garden with a snake
48) Homecoming game attendee
50) Subsurface war vessel
34) Permitted by law
52) Apollo 11 moon lander
36) "_ for the money ... "
53) It protects a break
37) Callas number
54) Choir voice
38) Stuffed things
55) Ill-mannered lout
56) Mother sheep
57) Bar mixer
58) Work on a bone, dog-style
59) Roofer's repair site
60) Five-pointed figure
STUFF IT
66) Volcanic discharge
67) Wrongful acts, in law
68) Hindu outfit
69) Picture pitcher
B Linda K. Palmer
Spring Asparagus & Lemon Chicken Stir-Fry
(HIGH-PROTEIN, LOW-CARB, GLUTEN-FREE)
In celebration of the warmer weather and fresh produce at the farmer’s markets, here’s a healthy, versatile and filling recipe easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
1 lb. chicken breast, sliced thin
1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
1 tbsp low-sodium tamari (or soy sauce if gluten sensitivity isn’t an issue) or coconut aminos
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add garlic and ginger, sauté for 30 seconds.
4. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes until tendercrisp.
5. Return chicken to the pan, add tamari, lemon juice, and zest. Stir well and cook for another minute.
6. Serve warm, optionally with steamed rice, quinoa or cauliflower rice.
Choice. Comfort. You.
You deserve classic charm, modern senior living, and the freedom to do what you love. With Assisted Living or Memory Care at Fox Hollow, our compassionate, long-standing team is here to help you make the most of each day. From our care to our activities calendar, dining menus, and lifestyle options, this is your home—where everything is customized just for you.
RECEIVE CARE YOU CAN DEPEND ON
• Exercise classes and on-site wellness therapy
• Weekly housekeeping and linen service
• Scheduled, local transportation
• Award-winning Bridge to Rediscovery™ Memory Care
DISCOVER ACTIVITIES AS FUN AS YOU
• Lifestyle360 activity program for well-rounded days
• Live entertainment, movie nights, and game-watching parties
• Resident clubs and spiritual services
FEAST ON FIVE STAR FLAVOR
• Signature, chef-prepared dishes served restaurant-style daily
• Individualized options to accommodate preferences and dietary restrictions
• Private rooms available for family dining
• Always Available Menu so you can dine whenever you like
