Commun ty Matters Newton Presbyterian Manor
April 2015
PMMA observes its Founders Day Employees of Newton Presbyterian Manor will observe the founding of Presbyterian Manors of MidAmerica this month as the company celebrates 66 years of providing quality senior services guided by Christian values in Kansas and Missouri. Each Presbyterian Manors of MidAmerica campus will have their own celebration with residents and employees during April acknowledging the importance each play in making life at Aberdeen Heights the way you want to live. “Many of our employees view what they do as a calling, not just a job,” said Bruce Shogren, president and CEO. “Our dedicated employees make it possible for us to sustain PMMA’s mission, which directly impacts the wonderful care our 2,400 residents receive every day.” Newton Presbyterian Manor employees will observe Founders Day at 1:30 p.m. April 16 in the McFarland Lobby. Residents will enjoy a celebration at 2:30 p.m. in the main dining room. Presbyterian Manors of MidAmerica’s roots go back to 1947. Alice Kalb, a widow from central Kansas, appealed to a Presbyterian FOUNDERS, continued on page 2
Dementia shreds fabric of couple’s life Sheila and Tom Anderson were a match made in heaven
Sheila and Tom Anderson were a match made in heaven, sharing the kind of love and companionship many people only dream of. For decades, they enjoyed spending time outdoors, water skiing, snow skiing, playing softball, camping and golfing. They also doted on their three children and later their grandchildren. Sheila says they hit it off from their first meeting at the Wichita Ski Club. A few weeks later, they were on a houseboat trip and Tom left his houseboat to approach Sheila’s. “He jumped off with his ball cap on, but he missed and fell in the water,” she laughs. Despite this inauspicious beginning, Tom was undeterred, and he and Sheila began dating, then married. They made their home in St. Mark’s, commuting to Wichita where Tom was a human resources manager at Boeing and Sheila worked in sales for Raychem. In September of 2001, they moved to Marion. “When we moved to Marion County Lake we were actually just looking for a weekend cabin,” Sheila explains. “We camped there almost every weekend and decided DEMENTIA, continued on page 2
Apple Blossom Festival promises fun for all ages Mark your calendars and invite your friends to join you at Newton Presbyterian Manor Friday evening, April 24 for the campus’ annual celebration of spring, Apple Blossom Festival. If weather doesn’t permit an outdoor festival, the event will be moved to the Harvey County Fairgrounds.
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Church organization to establish a home for seniors. Her vision became the first Presbyterian Manor community in Newton, Kan., and inspired others to do even more. Today PMMA remains true to the spirit of Alice’s vision, providing quality senior services guided by Christian values. For more information about Founders Day, contact Noelle Dickinson, marketing director, at ndickinson@pmma.org.
Community Matters
is published monthly for residents and friends of Newton Presbyterian Manor by Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America Inc., a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Learn more at PresbyterianManors.org. Marc Kessinger, executive director Noelle Dickinson, marketing director Melinda Ebersole, activity director To submit or suggest articles for this publication, contact Noelle at ndickinson@pmma.org. Telephone: 316-283-5400 Fax: 316-284-5900 Address: 1200 E. Seventh, Newton, KS 67114-2862 Our mission: We provide quality senior services guided by Christian values. NewtonPresbyterianManor.org
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The pork barbecue meal is a fundraiser for the Good Samaritan Program. Tickets can be purchased in advance at the front desk or at Midland National Bank’s main bank or the south branch. Tickets for adults are $8 in advance and $9 that evening. Kids will be treated to a Kid’s Meal Pack for $4 in advance or $5 that evening. They can choose from a pork sandwich, hamburger or hot dog with chips, a cookie and a drink. A drive-thru also is available off the Broadway Apartments entrance for those unable to stay for the evening. KidFest on the east lawn is a popular festival feature with fun for children of all ages. A $5 stamp will provide free access to all the KidFest attractions, unless otherwise noted. Local entertainers will be on the stage all evening while crafters and local vendors offer their products along 7th Street. A baked goods booth will raise funds for the Good Samaritan program. Gift baskets and items donated by local businesses will also be available in a special drawing. Antique cars and carriage rides complete this family event for all ages. Join us!
KidFest
An evening of fun for a $5 stamp!
Carnival games and prizes
Pony Rides
Obstacle course, 18-foot slide, moonwalks
Climbing Wall
Petting Zoo
Fun cycles & banana bikes (extra fee)
BBET update
Behavior-Based Ergonomic Therapy (BBET) has been fully integrated into the daily schedule of Presbyterian Manor’s two memory care households, Anderson Place and Haury Place. We’re already seeing a marked difference, especially
when it comes to the challenging behaviors that can come with the progression of dementia. Micki Blanco, RN, a campus coodinator for BBET, says the correlation between the number of BBET therapies provided to our residents with dementia and the number of behaviors charted is
clear. “Staff tripled the number of therapies given just last week and documented behaviors dropped by almost 50 percent from the previous week. Not only are we pleased with the numbers, but it is such a joy to see our residents smiling and interacting more,” Micki said.
New wellness director looks forward to rewarding work As a trainer and fitness director for the Wichita YMCA, Alex Ramos worked with people of all ages and fitness levels. Now, he’ll be able to focus especially on the needs of older adults as the new wellness director for Newton Presbyterian Manor. “I knew the type of work I would be doing was going to be very rewarding, without having met any of the residents yet,” Ramos said.
toward their fitness goals and personalize their workouts. He also married recently, and said his new schedule allows him to spend more time with his wife and stepson.
Ramos hopes he can help residents become “My goal is number one to be a good comfortable using resource for the residents here at the the machines in Manor.” the wellness center and encourage Ramos, a Wichita native, graduated from K-State in 2007 with a degree them to see just what they’re in exercise science. At first he capable of. For thought he would be working with those in physical elite athletes as a personal trainer. therapy, he wants He started working part-time at to help them the Y shortly after graduation, then stay motivated quickly landed a full-time job as a to continue with trainer and instructor. “My clients were more the average person, and a their recovery. lot of active older adults,” he said. “The nice thing with the health and wellness field After four and a half years, Ramos is that it’s always evolving. There’s was promoted to fitness director. always something new out there But he missed having as much oneon-one interaction with Y members. we can try, regardless of someone’s fitness level,” he said. The job at Presbyterian Manor appealed to him, he said, for the And get ready, Presbyterian Manor opportunity to guide individuals staff – Ramos has plans for you, too. 6 Community Matters April 2015
He hopes to get more staff using the wellness center and help them find ways to incorporate physical activity into their lifestyle. He’s even looking at some staff wellness challenges to make it fun. “I think it helps them be more successful at their jobs,” he said.
Chaplain’s Corner: The need to die By Jerroll Martens
In John 12, Jesus gives the metaphor of the seed either remaining alone or producing much fruit. In order to bring fruit, it must be planted and die. One seed dies but produces many more new ones. A seed of wheat may produce up to 50 new ones. One peach seed can produce a new tree with a harvest year after year. If we are to produce a spiritual harvest, like the seed, we must die. We must die to the idea that our life is ours to run; rather, it is God’s life to use. Pleasing God must be more important than pleasing ourselves. Our love for God should surpass our love for ourselves and all other loves. It is not what one can get out of life but what one can give to God so that He can multiply it and bring glory to Himself. It is putting oneself at the disposal of God for Him to use. Jesus warned that if we love our own life more that we love Him, we end up losing all that could have been ours with His blessing. Our Lord died shortly after speaking of the seed dying. His death made possible the gift of forgiveness and eternal life to all who receive Him. What a harvest!!
Manor sponsoring Glen Campbell Movie In 2011, music legend Glen Campbell set out on an unprecedented tour across America. They thought it would last 5 weeks. Instead, it went for 151 spectacular sold-out shows over a triumphant year and a half. What made this tour extraordinary was that Glen had recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. He was told to hang up his guitar and prepare for the inevitable. Instead, Glen and his wife went public with the diagnosis and announced that he and his family would set out on a Goodbye Tour. The film documents this amazing journey as he and his family attempt to navigate the wildly unpredictable nature of Glen’s progressing disease using love, laughter and music as their medicine of choice. Newton and Wichita Presbyterian Manors have partnered as co-hosts with the Alzheimer’s Association to
bring this powerful documentary film, I’ll Be Me, to Wichita’s Orpheum Theater on April 21 at 6:30 p.m. Tickets will be available at the door for $10.
Bravo of the Month Many Manor employees give above and beyond service on a daily basis. Ashley Sassi, staff coordinator, is being honored for this month’s Bravo recognition. “Ashley went to the store and bought several Valentine cards for a resident so he could choose one to give to his wife on Valentine’s Day.” Ashley demonstrated dignity and respect by going out of her way to make a resident’s day. Many thanks, Ashley!
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Upcoming Events Friday, April 3, 2:45 p.m. – Easter Egg Hunt for residents, staff, and their families, Haury Place courtyard April 16, 2:30 p.m. – Community assembly with Founders Day Celebration, main dining room. All independent and assisted living residents are encouraged to attend! April 14, 11 a.m. – Day trip to Botanica April 17, 2:30 p.m. – Volunteer reception with performance by the Newton High School Railaires, main dining room April 21, 6:30 p.m. – “I’ll Be Me,” Glen Campbell documentary, sponsored by Newton and Wichita Presbyterian Manors, Orpheum Theater in Wichita. April 24, 5-8 p.m. – Apple Blossom Festival, Manor Lawn. Invite your friends and family! Apple Blossom is especially childfriendly with lots for kids to enjoy!
Art is Ageless competition results They are teachers, farmers, veterans, homemakers, entrepreneurs and nurses, among many others. Some have resumed art after putting it aside for a career, others have been creating beautiful pieces throughout their lives, and others never picked up a brush until after they retired, but all are now expressing themselves through art. These diverse lives intersect at Newton Presbyterian Manor this month with the Art is Ageless® program. “It’s inspiring to see the beautiful and diverse pieces these artists have created,” said Marketing Director Noelle Dickinson. The Art is Ageless exhibit features works from local artists who are 65 and older, including Newton Presbyterian Manor residents. Winners were: Sculpture/3-D Judges Choice, “Elijah” by John W. Gaeddert, North Newton; second, “4 -Wheel Drive Articulated Tractor” by Verne M. Goering, Moundridge; third, “Bowls with Plaudietsch” by William Regehr, Hesston Photography, Amateur
Healthy Learning Lectures Fourth Thursdays of the month, 2 p.m., library
April:
Heart Health-LaVeta Jarrett with Dr. Ewy
May:
Speech/Hearing-Dr. Zafar
June:
Outdoors-Heather Edwards, RehabCare 4 Community Matters April 2015
Judges Choice, “Inside the Summer Sun” by Dick McCall, Newton Photography, Professional Judges Choice, “Radiant Sunflowers” by Max Voran, North Newton Fiber Arts Judges Choice, “Swedish Weaving” by Ann Heidebrecht, Newton; second, “Crochet Saque, Cap & Booties” by Billie Miller, Newton
Drawing Judges Choice, “God’s Smallest Choir” by Shirley Jones, Newton; second, “Zentangle S” by Shirley Harms, North Newton Christmas Judges Choice, “Colors of Winter” by Virgil Penner, North Newton; second, “Christmas Barn” by R. Allan Lister, Newton; third, “Christmas Ornaments” by Hank Heidebrecht, Newton Quilting Judges Choice, “Feathers and Roses” by L. Deane Frey, Newton; second, “Handkerchief Quilt” by Marie von Forell, Newton; third, “Prairie Wild Flowers” by Wilma Schmidt, Walton Mixed Media/Crafts Judges Choice, “Eska Box” by Hank Heidebrecht, Newton; second, “Recycled Handbag” by Ethel Rickard, Newton Painting, Amateur Judges Choice, “Our Family Farm” by Hulda Schrag, North Newton; second, “Sunflower” by Billie Miller, Newton; third, “The Blackbirds Have Landed” by Rosella Goering, North Newton; honorable mention, “Night Light” by Rachel M. Poling, Newton Painting, Professional Judges Choice, “Little Arkansas River” by Gene Marsh, Halstead; second, “Summer Snowballs” by Velera Adams, Hutchinson; third, “Poppy Happy” by Marilyn Hope Lake, Hutchinson; honorable mention, “Open Gate” by Virgil Penner, North Newton; honorable mention, “A Kansas Tradition” by Eldine F. Harder, North Newton
Shining a light. Rekindling a soul.
Reigniting a spark in those with memory loss. At Newton Presbyterian Manor, we’re using award-winning therapies that are improving the quality of life on many levels — both for residents and those who love them. This breakthrough therapy involves music, video and memory prop libraries tailored to each person, carefully chosen with the help of family. Through this program, we’re better managing the effects of dementia, one person at a time.
Newton 1200 East Seventh Newton, KS 67114 NewtonPresbyterianManor.org
Call us at 316-842-4830 to learn more. Newton Presbyterian Manor 5
Fat Tuesday pancake feed John Quilty enjoyed the company of long-time friend Bob Gaede at the Fat Tuesday pancake feed. Guests enjoyed the traditional pancakes and sausage and were treated to true Cajun jambalaya. About 25 community guests joined residents and campus cottage and duplex guests for this special winter meal.
DEMENTIA, continued from page 1
it would be easier to have a more permanent place to go to. We ended up finding a nice home to buy. I love to fish and the lake was right there, and Tom was a golfer and Marion Golf Course was a mile away, so we had the best of both worlds.” Soon after they moved, Sheila noticed changes in Tom’s behavior. “He was forgetting things,” she says softly. “Over time, it just got worse. I couldn’t believe he could still hold on to a job.”
Association. She cautions, however, that symptoms can be hard to identify. “If you didn’t know them, you may not realize anything is wrong.” As Tom’s descent into deeper dementia began, Sheila moved them to an independent living apartment at Newton Presbyterian Manor. That was in April of 2012, and by Sept. 1, he had progressed to a point where he needed to move into Presbyterian Manor’s memory care neighborhood.
Sheila elected to move into a duplex across the street from Presbyterian After he retired from Boeing, Tom Manor, and she visits Tom every day. worked as a substitute teacher and She also is close enough that the drove the school bus until conditions nurses call her when Tom becomes dictated he was no longer able to agitated, which is frequently the perform adequately. case. Sheila “convinced” Tom into going for neurological testing and the diagnosis came back – Lewy body dementia (LBD). Some of the symptoms of the disease mimic those of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases, but the symptoms also include hallucinations, and most people are first diagnosed with the better known ailments. People with LBD have dementia and often appear disoriented.
Daughter Heather von Merveldt set about organizing a team of Tom’s extended family. Every year YMMOT’s (Tommy spelled backwards) team participates in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, raising funds for the cause they hope to help cure. The team continues to grow year by year, and Tom’s brother happily furnishes t-shirts for all the team members.
Presbyterian Manor staff also “The dementia usually leads to uses music therapy to help keep significant cognitive impairment Tom calm, using an iPod and that interferes with everyday life,” individualized song selections says Angela Taylor, programming furnished by the Alzheimer’s director of the Lewy Body Dementia Association Central and Western
Kansas Chapter. Through the Roth Project, the Association helps individuals and families suffering from Alzheimer’s or a related dementia to decrease the incidence of difficult behaviors, connect with loved ones, improve communication and cognition, and increase quality of life. Participants are assisted with equipment set-up, playlist selection, and program usage. The Association also provides training to family members and professional caregivers wishing to access the therapy. At the current time, there are 60 people receiving the service, and its expansion is only limited by the availability of iPods and headphones. Anyone wishing to donate to the project is encouraged to contact the Association at 316-267-7333. Sheila was consulted in choosing the songs for Tom’s iPod. She says the value of music therapy is obvious from the calming influence it exerts. “I think listening to music might trigger hidden memories, like a child’s laughter has a calming effect on me,” she reflects. “Music can put happiness back in a sad heart.” Sheila ponders the years she spent with Tom. “My husband of 31 years has been mentally absent from me for several years,” she muses. “Our marriage and life together was one of the most magnificent times of my life. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.” Newton Presbyterian Manor 7
Newton Presbyterian Manor 1200 E. Seventh Newton, KS 67114-2862 Return Service Requested
Maintenance-free living could be yours by summer Spacious one- and two-bedroom apartments as well as a cottage and a duplex will be available on the Newton Presbyterian Manor campus this spring. Leave the yard work to us this summer! Call Noelle Dickinson, marketing direcotr, at 316-283-5400 to discuss options, or email her at ndickinson@pmma.org
Coming Up in Community Matters Community Matters will focus on gardening and outdoor life in an upcoming issue. Are you an avid gardener, or were you when you were more physically able? What did you love about gardening? What did you grow? Does your campus have a raised bed garden that you help with now? What do you enjoy about being outdoors? If you have a story to tell, contact Marketing Director Noelle Dickinson to share your idea.Your story may be selected for the next issue of your community newsletter. 8 Community Matters April 2015
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