Community Matters The Glen at Aberdeen Heights
January 2018
Pet adoption programs specifically for seniors By Jen Reeder for Next Avenue
Shelters and rescue organizations around the United States are implementing so-called “Seniors for Seniors” programs. The idea is simple: discount or waive adoption fees for older adults who want to adopt older pets. Some organizations even cover medical bills for vaccinations, surgeries and dental care prior to adoption. In addition to financial incentives, senior dogs make ideal companions because they are usually housetrained and need less exercise than puppies. Supporting senior pets Ashley Zeh, associate director of communications for Lollypop Farm Humane Society of Greater Rochester in Fairport, N.Y., said her organization offers a Seniors for Seniors program year-round. “Senior [pets] have so much to offer, but they have hard competition with those cute little kitties and puppies. So we just provide a little extra incentive,” said Zeh. Because those personalities have already developed, potential DOGS, continued on page 2
Jamie Kneen, executive director of Aberdeen Heights, with Bruce Shogren, president and CEO of PMMA, left, and Bill Taylor, COO of PMMA, right.
Emerald Awards Program Aberdeen Heights honored for achievements
Aberdeen Heights received a certificate of recognition from Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America for reaching goals in fiscal year 2017, covering the months of July 1, 2016, through June 30, 2017. The recognition came through PMMA’s Emerald Awards Program, designed to encourage its 17 campuses and two hospices to achieve high levels of resident and employee satisfaction, meet financial goals, build philanthropic support for the organization’s mission and meet marketing goals. There are 11 areas measured for the Emerald Awards. To receive an emerald, a community has to meet its goals in all 11 areas. Certificates of recognition were given out to communities that reached their goals in one or more category. Aberdeen Heights was recognized for meeting marketing goals. PROGRAM, continued on page 2
A proud member of Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America
EMERALD, continued from page 1
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“This recognition is a visible sign of Aberdeen Heights’ commitment to the mission of PMMA of providing quality senior services guided by Christian values,” said Bruce Shogren, chief executive officer for PMMA.
adopters can know what to expect from each animal and find an ideal fit for their home.
Presbyterian Manors of MidAmerica has been providing quality senior services guided by Christian values in Kansas and Missouri for more than 65 years. For more information about Aberdeen Heights, contact Marketing Director Kathleen Wayman at 314-909-6000 or kwayman@pmma.org.
“If they want to snuggle up on the couch or if they want to go on a six-mile walk, they’re not going to change their minds anytime soon,” Zeh said. “It’s really looking at the individual animal and your lifestyle and making the right choice for both of you.” Benefits of an older dog Cheryl Rakich, founder and president of Almost Home Dog Rescue of Ohio, said her nonprofit rescues collies, shelties and mixes from high-kill shelters in Ohio, Kentucky, Michigan, Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Through the nonprofit’s Senior to Senior Foster Homes program, people aged 55 and up can become “permanent fosters” for dogs aged seven and up. To remove financial barriers, the organization covers all costs associated with the care of the dogs, including food, treats, monthly heartworm and flea medication, three trips to a professional groomer each year and veterinary expenses. While some potential adopters worry it would be “too sad” to adopt an older dog, Rakich, a 63-year-old with a beloved 14-year-old sheltie, suggests looking at the bigger picture.
Community Matters is published monthly for residents and friends of Aberdeen Heights by Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America Inc., a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Learn more at: PresbyterianManors.org. James “Jamie” Kneen, executive director To submit or suggest articles for this publication, contact Lily Landy, health care administrator, LLandy@pmma.org. Telephone: 314-909-6010 Address: 505 Couch Ave., Kirkwood, MO 63122 Our mission: We provide quality senior services guided by Christian values.
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Community Matters January 2018
“Step outside of your comfort zone and just look into the eyes of this dog and realize that you are going to benefit deeply by giving this a chance,” she said. Laura T. Coffey, author of the bestselling book, “My Old Dog: Rescued Pets with Remarkable Second Acts,” agrees. During research, she interviewed over 100 people from across the country about adopting senior dogs and didn’t meet a single person who regretted their decision. “They all said they would do it again,” Coffey said. “It’s such a meaningful thing to do, because you know you’re making such a difference in the life of an animal who otherwise may have run out of options.”
Tell about your history We will feature women’s history in an upcoming issue of Community Matters. We want to know about the achievements of the women who live on our campuses. If you were among the first women in the workforce or elected office, or if you just want to tell the world what you love about your senior living community, we want to share the story. Contact Lily Landy, health care administrator, and your story could be featured in an upcoming edition of Community Matters. Like us on Facebook