Heartlines Winter 2017

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WINTER 2017

Grab Your Sneakers!

1215 Hulton Road Oakmont PA 15139-1196 www.SrCare.org 1-877-772-6500

Your steps help to enrich the lives of our residents

Why should you walk with us? The answer is simple – our residents. While Highmark underwrites the cost of the Walk, all funds raised by our Walk teams come directly back to our organization. We participate in Walks in both Pittsburgh and Erie to support our residents at those locations.

Venango

REGISTRATION IS OPEN! Visit SrCare.org/events to register for the Walk in your area. Remember, we want to be the biggest group at the Walk – we need you there with your best sneakers on!

PITTSBURGH WALK When: Saturday, May 13, 9 a.m.

Where: Stage AE, North Shore, Pittsburgh ERIE WALK When: Saturday, June 3, 9 a.m.

Where: Beach 11 at Presque Isle State Park

To register, visit SrCare.org/events.

Cameron P7

Lycoming

Elk

Mercer

OHIO

On the Go? Want to Save Paper?

Our Erie campuses raise money for their Employee Assistance Fund for employees who may be in a time of crisis and need a little extra help, but have nowhere to turn.

We walk because our residents and team members are the center of everything that we do – we fundraise to enhance quality of life. If you are unable to join us for the Walk, consider donating. Donations to our Walk Teams can be made by visiting SrCare.org/events and by clicking on the Walk event of your choice.

THE STORIES THAT UNITE US

Clinton

If you’d like to receive future newsletters in your inbox, visit our web site, www.SrCare.org, to sign up for E-news.

OUR COMMUNITIES MAP

P6|N6 P7|N7

PERSONAL CARE

P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7

Southminster Place Westminster Place Woodside Place Longwood at Oakmont Shenango on the Green Manchester Commons Elmwood Gardens

4

NURSING CARE

N1 N2 N3 N4 N5 N6 N7 N8

Southmont The Willows Longwood at Oakmont Shenango on the Green Villa St. Joseph* Manchester Commons Elmwood Gardens Oakwood Heights

$

CONTINUING CARE

C1 C2

Longwood at Oakmont Shenango on the Green

# W W W W

W W W W W W

Crawford

SENIOR CONDOMINIUMS

SC1 Redstone Court* SC2 Woodlands at Redstone* SC3 Woodlands Village I & II*

S28 S18

Warren

Beaver Venango

McKean

Butler Forest

N5

Tioga

Armstrong Potter

Mercer

Mifflin

S5 Elk Cameron

P4|N3|S20|C1

Clarion

P5|N4|C2 S27

S17 S31 S29

S23

S24

S28

S15

S19 S30

S26 Jefferson S7

Huntingdon

Clearfield

P2

Montour

Centre

S9

Lackawanna

Blair

Columbia

Pike

Juniata

Monroe

Cambria

Union

NEW JERSEY

Carbon

S22

S11

Butler

S5

N5 S10

Beaver

S8

Westmoreland

Armstrong

Allegheny

S13

P1|N1|S2

Washington

S3

S16

S3

Somerset

Fayette Greene

Greene

WEST VIRGINIA

MARYLAND

Fulton

S1|S12

Franklin

Adams

Fayette

Bucks

Somerset

York

Fulton

Bedford

Philadelphia Chester

Delaware

DELAWARE

© 2017 Presbyterian SeniorCare Network | 1.17

WEST VIRGINIA

Lancaster

VIRGINIA

MARYLAND

OurCumberland Person-Centered Approach Adams Franklin to Care Hunterdon

Berks Lebanon

Cumberland

S21 Bedford S1|S12

Dauphin

Perry

Montgomery

S16 S21

Lehigh

Juniata

Cambria

Washington Westmoreland

SC1|2|3

Northampton

Northumberland Schuylkill

Indiana

P1|N1|S2

S13

Snyder

Mifflin

Huntingdon Blair

S11

Perry

Warren

S25 S18

Snyd

Wyoming

Luzerne

Clinton

P3|N2

S6

Sullivan

Indiana Lycoming

Allegheny S14

Bradford Wayne

N8

Lawrence

Uni

Susquehanna

SUPPORTIVE & AFFORDABLE HOUSING

S1 Beeson Court S2 Bellmead Apartments S3 Bridge Street Commons S4 Commons at North Aiken S5 Commons of Saxonburg S6 Etna Commons* S7 Fairmont Apartments S8 Fifth Avenue Commons S9 Forward Shady Apartments* S10 Green Diamond Place S11 HaveLoch Commons S12 The Heritage* S13 Heritage House of Houston S14 Mt. Nazareth Commons S15 Negley Commons D S16 The Oaks at Center in the Woods S17 Page Place Apartments D S18 Park Manor Apartments S19 Plum Creek Acres S20 PlumWood Apartments D S21 Poplar Lane Court S22 Riverview Towers* S23 Robinson Manor* S24 St. Justin Plaza* S25 St. Therese Plaza* S26 Silver Lake Commons S27 SpruceWood Commons S28 Sunbury Fields S29 Timothy Place D S30 Sweetbriar Place* S31 York Commons

3

Lawrence

NEW YORK

Centre

Erie

W Denotes communities that offer the Woodside Program, specialized Alzheimer’s and dementia care D Denotes supportive housing for persons with disabilities * Denotes communities which are not owned or sponsored by Presbyterian SeniorCare but are managed by our affiliate, SeniorCare Network

1

Jefferson

S27

LAKE ERIE

Denotes counties with Longwood at Home and Presbyterian SeniorCare at Home specialty programs

Clearfield

Clarion

P5|N4|C2

WEST VIRGINIA

Although we’ve always had a good showing of supporters walk with us – we want MORE! If your New Year’s resolution was to get more steps in, join our Walk team we need your help in being the largest group at the Walk!

In the Pittsburgh area, every dollar we raise supports resident enrichment programs at our Oakmont, Washington and Longwood campuses, as well as for our more than 35 affordable housing communities.

OHIO

F

ebruary is coming to a close and we are all tired of looking at gray skies and snowflakes.

Don’t fret – sunny days will be here soon!

When the sun finally starts to shine once more, we want YOU to join us for the annual Highmark Walk for a Healthy Community! The Walk for a Healthy Community is an annual fundraising event that supports local health and human services agencies in Pennsylvania – organizations like Presbyterian SeniorCare Network!

WEST VIRGINIA

UPCOMING EVENTS

A NOTE FROM THE PRESIDENT & CEO

NOURISHING THE HEART AND SOUL

CAPTURING THE HEART

W

For many, there is no greater way to feed the soul than spending time in the great outdoors! This was the case of Sam, a Longwood at Home member whose love for the outdoors was challenged by a sudden healthcare change. Sam joined the Longwood at Home program in 2011 as an active, healthy adult. He loved the outdoors and frequently hit the hiking trails.

For residents from our personal communities at Oakmont, a picture is worth more than a thousand words.

Once a month, a small group from our Woodside Place dementia care community, along with residents from Westminster Place, enjoy painting to their heart’s content at The Andy Warhol Museum.

hen you received this issue in your mailbox, I hope you looked at it and said “wow!” The look is new and the name has changed from Positive Notes to heartlines.

IN THIS ISSUE A Person-Centered Culture...... 1 From the Foundation.................. 2 Planned Giving Corner............... 3 The Beat: News from around the Network...............4-7 Upcoming Events........................ 9

Across Presbyterian SeniorCare Network, we are joined at the heart in our commitment to being person-centered and in our calling to serve, which heartlines will reflect anew.

If you’ve ever had your palm read, the heart line is one of the three major indicators of how a person approaches the world. If you have a long heart line, it means that you are passionate, exhibit warmth, and are concerned about the well-being of others. These attributes are at the heart of how we do what we do every day as a person-centered organization. Our person-centered culture is about respect, and acknowledging and appreciating one another’s similarities and differences. It’s about being welcoming and showing our passion for caring for all.

It’s about diversity and inclusion. And, it’s about lifting people up and supporting them wherever they are on their life’s journey.

“Everyone has been made for some particular work, and the desire for that work has been put in every heart.” ~Rumi

ABOUT THE COVER At Presbyterian SeniorCare Network, we embrace a personcentered philosophy, a heartfelt approach that is rooted in our dedication to meeting the unique needs and desires of everyone; whether it is our residents and families, our employees and partners or our donors. It’s our way of respecting the personhood of each individual we serve, no matter where they are in life’s journey.

WINTER 2017

THE STORIES THAT

UNITE US

Our Person-Centered Approach to Care

Similarly, we are pleased to share our updated Mission and Values statements, which also better reflect our organization’s evolution to being person-centered in all that we say and do. We are privileged to serve more than 6,500 older adults and persons with disabilities annually throughout 10 western Pennsylvania counties. And, it is our hope that through our words and actions, you will continue to be inspired and supportive of our efforts.

Thank you for opening your hearts to Presbyterian SeniorCare Network.

Thank you for having a heart for our mission.

Paul M. Winkler President & CEO

The MISSION STATEMENT conveys our organization’s purpose and what we do: Presbyterian SeniorCare Network is committed to enriching the aging experience through personcentered service and living options.

The VALUES STATEMENT works in tandem with the mission and highlights what we believe in and how we will behave: Grounded in Christ-like values of benevolence and love of neighbor, we pursue excellence, innovation and collaboration to ensure individuals live well and team members have meaningful work.

In 2013, Sam’s life changed when he was diagnosed with dementia. Sam was committed to continuing to live in his home and doing the things that he loved, but he needed a little bit of help. His Longwood at Home care coordinator knew that Sam was physically strong despite facing declining cognitive abilities. She was determined to help Sam stay engaged so that he didn’t feel as if his fierce independence was being threatened. Her solution was quite creative. She searched and found the perfect at-home caregiver, one who shared Sam’s passion for hiking.

How heartwarming it was to see Sam’s joy as he continued to experience walks in the woods with his caregiver each Wednesday – something he was fortunate enough to have been able to do up until the very day before he passed away last year.

With the help of a museum educator, they create silkscreen masterpieces – everything from flowers to portraits of Andy Warhol himself – that capture the heart. At Presbyterian SeniorCare Network, we recognize the power of art not only to promote health, but also to create personal, positive experiences that enrich the lives of our residents and encourage their selfexpression.

Everyone across Presbyterian SeniorCare Network is connected through our commitment to being person-centered.

In fact, it’s our culture. And it’s what makes us uniquely different in terms of how we serve others and how we treat one another as co-workers. It’s about creating WELCOMING ENVIRONMENTS, offering FLEXIBILITY and CHOICE, and KEEP YOUR HEART PUMPING having a heart for SERVING OTHERS. The stories are daily – from simple heartfelt words to Ruth Weir was only 5 years old when she was inspired by Amelia Earhart. She innovative care solutions, our team set her heart on learning to fly planes as soon as she was able. Her dream came members are making a personal true when Ruth joined the Navy during WWII and was able to take advantage of free difference in the lives of flying lessons. Before she knew it, she had lessons under her belt, was out of the Navy and all who we are privileged flying a two-seater, twin engine civilian plane. to serve.

An adventurous soul, Ruth decided in her mid-80s that she was ready for even more excitement. She found a lovely garden apartment at Longwood at Oakmont, where her love of life continued to take flight.

At age 85, Ruth decided that, instead of flying planes, she’d jump out of them. Encouraged by her family and Longwood friends, Ruth met her goal – three dives – the final one this summer at the age of 92. Ruth’s great joys in life have been when she followed her heart.

MAKING HEARTS SMILE At Shenango on the Green, the Presbyterian SeniorCare Network continuing care community nestled in the charming town of New Wilmington, Norm Cochran is known as the “movie man.”

He came up with the idea of hosting Friday Movie Night each week. It keeps him busy and active and he takes his work to heart. Norm researches and picks all of the movies himself and is pleased by the wholehearted support he receives for his efforts.

“When we have a real hot new release that has a lot of publicity we get as many as 40 people,” he notes.

“Management supplies the popcorn and a number of us bag it and pass it out so everyone gets what they want.”

FEATURE STORY

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A Person-Centered Culture A little bit of heart goes a long way in making aging easier®

T

he human heart is the body’s engine room – it is where “life” happens. The organ works tirelessly, beating 100,000 times a day, 40 million times a year. But the term “heart” means more than just the practical, necessary engine. “Heart” describes a feeling and an action. Those who have “heart” show deep compassion for others. They are generous and kind.

“Hearts” strive for outcomes that are not selfish, choosing to flourish in environments that feed the soul.

When you walk into a Presbyterian SeniorCare Network community, you get an overwhelming feeling of “heart.” From the people you meet to the physical environment that greets you, you can just feel the warmth.

Why is that? It’s because the entire Presbyterian SeniorCare Network embraces a person-centered philosophy which embodies a mindset that is full of heart. It’s a way of respecting the personhood of each individual we serve, no matter where they are in life’s journey.

Continued on page 8

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PLANNED GIVING CORNER

FROM THE FOUNDATION

A Look Back. A Look Ahead

M

y passion for Presbyterian SeniorCare Network is deep. I’ve been a part of the organization since 2003, first as a board member of the Foundation, and then in 2011 as the Executive Director of the Foundation. But for me it’s even more personal. Among my most heartfelt moments were the three years that my father was a resident at The Willows on our Oakmont campus. I remember it like yesterday even though it will be 11 years since my father died. It was then that I learned how powerful it is to trust your heart.

My dad got the best care and I could really FEEL it – not just see it. My dad and our family were made to feel that the world centered around him and his needs. I experienced firsthand what person-centered means. These are not just words; it is the culture across Presbyterian SeniorCare Network. My personal experience is why I believe so much in our mission and why I am so comfortable in asking for support to carry it forward.

Taking a look back at 2016, we raised nearly $175,000 for benevolent care through our two annual signature efforts – the Golf Outing at Oakmont Country Club and Your Holiday Home at the Hilton Garden Inn Southpointe. Additionally, we marked a milestone in our journey to becoming a Dementia Care Center of Excellence. Last November, we hosted The Silver Factory Experience event at The Andy Warhol Museum where we toasted to 25 years since the introduction of our Woodside Place dementia-care community, one of the first of

its kind in the U.S. Finally, we raised over $20,000 for resident enrichment programs through our participation in the 2016 Walk for a Healthy Community.

Funds raised provide residents with additional technology to stay connected with family members, as well as to enhance current lifestyle engagement programs such as off-campus outings, on-site entertainment and more.

In 2017, we look forward to exciting renovations on our Oakmont campus, which will be supported by a $1,000,000 grant in 2016 from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP). It will be used to fund renovations at The Willows skilled nursing community in Oakmont. At our Washington campus, we continue to plan for the construction of Woodside Place of Washington, which will be the first freestanding residential community totally focused on Alzheimer’s and dementia care in To make a gift, please visit Washington County.

SrCare.org/donate-now or We thank you for all give us a call at 412-826-6195. of your support!

Jacqueline S. Flanagan, CFRE Executive Director

Benevolent or charitable care is at the HEART of our mission.

Each year, benevolent care totals nearly $1.8 million and is our greatest need of support. Donations to the SeniorCARE FUND help to continue our 88-year tradition of providing charitable care for residents who have outlived their resources. Today 1 in 5 of the personal care residents we serve is a beneficiary of benevolent care. Presbyterian SeniorCare Network is one of the few providers in our region who place a commitment to residents above their ability to pay. By making a monthly or annual gift to the SeniorCARE FUND, you will be helping a resident stay in their Presbyterian SeniorCare

Network home – something that we’d all want for ourselves or a loved one if ever in the same situation.

NEXT STEPS: Make a donation to the SeniorCARE FUND by: • Returning the enclosed envelope with your gift • Visiting SrCare.org/donate-now to make an online donation

Planned Giving: A Year in Review 2016

M

ahatma Gandhi said, “The future depends on what we do in the present.” And that was never more evident than last year at Presbyterian SeniorCare Foundation. Through our planned giving program we received several wonderful planned gifts in 2016 that will provide a lasting impact on Presbyterian SeniorCare Network residents now…and in the future.

Last year we received three Charitable Gift Annuities from Longwood at Oakmont residents. One of these gifts was inspired by reading about another resident‘s gift in our newsletter! Charitable Gift Annuities enable you to support a charity that you love, receive an immediate tax deduction AND enjoy an annual fixed income for life. In addition, last year we received three bequest gifts, two from former residents and one from a former Board Member’s spouse.

In keeping with our tradition of offering an informative luncheon series, we held two Food for Thought events for our Anderson Legacy Society members, our Longwood at Oakmont residents and Longwood at Home members. The spring luncheon gave folks the inside scoop on the 2016 US Open Championship held at Oakmont Country Club. The fall luncheon featured Pittsburgh’s own Rick Sebak who entertained, educated and delighted us with his Pittsburgh Trivia Quiz at the Longue Vue Club.

m

m “ The future depends on

what we do in the present.”

~Mahatma Gandhi

If you have a question regarding making a donation, please contact Presbyterian SeniorCare Foundation at foundation@srcare.org or call 412-826-6195.

Rounding out our events was a special ORGANic and Home Grown Happy Hour held at Longwood at Oakmont in concert with the Longwood Music Events Committee’s introduction of a new ballroom organ in October. We enjoyed organic wine and cheeses, and good company!

This past year, I have been delighted to meet so many of you! And have been thrilled by Board Members, residents, family members, friends, staff, and volunteers telling me that they have included Presbyterian SeniorCare Network in their estate plans. We have grown the Anderson Legacy Society to 33 members! If you have included Presbyterian SeniorCare Network in your will or estate plans – let me know. We would like to thank you for your thoughtfulness and welcome you as a new member of the Anderson Legacy Society.

It is wonderful to have so many generous people supporting our work of making aging easier. Thanks for making my first year here a memorable one – I look forward to meeting many more of you in 2017!

1 2

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Nancy Hart Director, Planned Giving Phone: 412-826-6087 Email: nhart@srcare.org

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PLANNED GIVING CORNER

FROM THE FOUNDATION

A Look Back. A Look Ahead

M

y passion for Presbyterian SeniorCare Network is deep. I’ve been a part of the organization since 2003, first as a board member of the Foundation, and then in 2011 as the Executive Director of the Foundation. But for me it’s even more personal. Among my most heartfelt moments were the three years that my father was a resident at The Willows on our Oakmont campus. I remember it like yesterday even though it will be 11 years since my father died. It was then that I learned how powerful it is to trust your heart.

My dad got the best care and I could really FEEL it – not just see it. My dad and our family were made to feel that the world centered around him and his needs. I experienced firsthand what person-centered means. These are not just words; it is the culture across Presbyterian SeniorCare Network. My personal experience is why I believe so much in our mission and why I am so comfortable in asking for support to carry it forward.

Taking a look back at 2016, we raised nearly $175,000 for benevolent care through our two annual signature efforts – the Golf Outing at Oakmont Country Club and Your Holiday Home at the Hilton Garden Inn Southpointe. Additionally, we marked a milestone in our journey to becoming a Dementia Care Center of Excellence. Last November, we hosted The Silver Factory Experience event at The Andy Warhol Museum where we toasted to 25 years since the introduction of our Woodside Place dementia-care community, one of the first of

its kind in the U.S. Finally, we raised over $20,000 for resident enrichment programs through our participation in the 2016 Walk for a Healthy Community.

Funds raised provide residents with additional technology to stay connected with family members, as well as to enhance current lifestyle engagement programs such as off-campus outings, on-site entertainment and more.

In 2017, we look forward to exciting renovations on our Oakmont campus, which will be supported by a $1,000,000 grant in 2016 from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP). It will be used to fund renovations at The Willows skilled nursing community in Oakmont. At our Washington campus, we continue to plan for the construction of Woodside Place of Washington, which will be the first freestanding residential community totally focused on Alzheimer’s and dementia care in To make a gift, please visit Washington County.

SrCare.org/donate-now or We thank you for all give us a call at 412-826-6195. of your support!

Jacqueline S. Flanagan, CFRE Executive Director

Benevolent or charitable care is at the HEART of our mission.

Each year, benevolent care totals nearly $1.8 million and is our greatest need of support. Donations to the SeniorCARE FUND help to continue our 88-year tradition of providing charitable care for residents who have outlived their resources. Today 1 in 5 of the personal care residents we serve is a beneficiary of benevolent care. Presbyterian SeniorCare Network is one of the few providers in our region who place a commitment to residents above their ability to pay. By making a monthly or annual gift to the SeniorCARE FUND, you will be helping a resident stay in their Presbyterian SeniorCare

Network home – something that we’d all want for ourselves or a loved one if ever in the same situation.

NEXT STEPS: Make a donation to the SeniorCARE FUND by: • Returning the enclosed envelope with your gift • Visiting SrCare.org/donate-now to make an online donation

Planned Giving: A Year in Review 2016

M

ahatma Gandhi said, “The future depends on what we do in the present.” And that was never more evident than last year at Presbyterian SeniorCare Foundation. Through our planned giving program we received several wonderful planned gifts in 2016 that will provide a lasting impact on Presbyterian SeniorCare Network residents now…and in the future.

Last year we received three Charitable Gift Annuities from Longwood at Oakmont residents. One of these gifts was inspired by reading about another resident‘s gift in our newsletter! Charitable Gift Annuities enable you to support a charity that you love, receive an immediate tax deduction AND enjoy an annual fixed income for life. In addition, last year we received three bequest gifts, two from former residents and one from a former Board Member’s spouse.

In keeping with our tradition of offering an informative luncheon series, we held two Food for Thought events for our Anderson Legacy Society members, our Longwood at Oakmont residents and Longwood at Home members. The spring luncheon gave folks the inside scoop on the 2016 US Open Championship held at Oakmont Country Club. The fall luncheon featured Pittsburgh’s own Rick Sebak who entertained, educated and delighted us with his Pittsburgh Trivia Quiz at the Longue Vue Club.

m

m “ The future depends on

what we do in the present.”

~Mahatma Gandhi

If you have a question regarding making a donation, please contact Presbyterian SeniorCare Foundation at foundation@srcare.org or call 412-826-6195.

Rounding out our events was a special ORGANic and Home Grown Happy Hour held at Longwood at Oakmont in concert with the Longwood Music Events Committee’s introduction of a new ballroom organ in October. We enjoyed organic wine and cheeses, and good company!

This past year, I have been delighted to meet so many of you! And have been thrilled by Board Members, residents, family members, friends, staff, and volunteers telling me that they have included Presbyterian SeniorCare Network in their estate plans. We have grown the Anderson Legacy Society to 33 members! If you have included Presbyterian SeniorCare Network in your will or estate plans – let me know. We would like to thank you for your thoughtfulness and welcome you as a new member of the Anderson Legacy Society.

It is wonderful to have so many generous people supporting our work of making aging easier. Thanks for making my first year here a memorable one – I look forward to meeting many more of you in 2017!

1 2

|3

Nancy Hart Director, Planned Giving Phone: 412-826-6087 Email: nhart@srcare.org

4|

THE BEAT: NEWS FROM AROUND THE NETWORK

THE BEAT: NEWS FROM AROUND THE NETWORK

Presbyterian SeniorCare Network serves over 6,500 older adults each year in a variety of settings. We are blessed to see the dreams and aspirations of the older adults we serve come to fruition – whether that be of their own accord or with a little bit of help from a collaborative partner. Check out these few snippets of happenings from around the Network.

Successful Living at its Finest

Longwood at Oakmont residents pen mystery novel, “Where’s Laura?”

O

ur dedication to being person-centered creates environments that allow our residents to thrive and fulfill their dreams and aspirations. A great example of “living the dream” can be found on our Longwood at Oakmont campus where eight of our residents recently published a novel. Read on to learn about the journey of these enthusiastic writers.

It wasn’t like Laura not to show up for their Tuesday dinners.

* Note: the following excerpt is adapted, for space, from a Dec. 18, 2016 feature story published in the Tribune Review.

service officer.

So it was only natural for the handful of women in the retirement community who sat at the same table in the dining room with her each week to be disconcerted. A hesitant check of her apartment yielded a cryptic voice message.

More anxious than ever, the women enlisted the help of a friend and neighbor, Robert Symonds, a former foreign

And so begins “Where’s Laura?”, the debut mystery novel was written by eight residents of Longwood who became known to other residents, noticing their lively conversations and laughter, as the Tuesday Table Ladies. The women chose the pseudonym of Octavia (“eight”) Long (as in Longwood) as the penname.

The idea had its genesis when one of this cheery gang of eight, Muriel Weeks, did not appear for dinner as expected. When someone asked, “Where’s Muriel?” it had the sound of a mystery title, recalls Anne Ducanis, another of the Table Ladies.

The authors of “Where’s Laura?” AKA The Tuesday Table Ladies! From L to R: Margaret Groninger, Jane Reimers, Muriel Weeks, Doreen Boyce, Nancy Courtney, Connie Fischer, Anne Ducanis and Dorothy Armistead. If you are interested in purchasing “Where’s Laura?”, you will find it at the Mystery Lovers’ Book Shop in Oakmont, as well as on Amazon and Kindle. A portion of the proceeds from the sales benefit the Longwood Life Care Fund for residents who may run out of resources to pay for their care.

“The idea of a mystery set in a retirement community was unusual and intriguing and we began to explore the possibilities,” she says. “When we started it was, ‘Let’s see if we can write a mystery,’ and we weren’t sure we would really be able to complete it. The fact that we persisted and managed to finish a fun read that people are enjoying is the best part.”

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to work with people who were gracious about having their contributions amended, making the story better,” she says. “We plan to start another Tuesday Table Lady mystery in January.”

Although some of the participants had previously published academic books, none had written a novel. Table Lady Margaret Groninger says the most challenging aspect of the project for her was “to reign in some of my wilder ideas about where the plot might go. I’d consider this book a total success if it inspires other retirees to get creative and explore their potential, whether in writing, art or music,” Groninger says.

Over a period of three years, they wrote and edited what became “Where’s Laura?” One of the Ladies volunteered to write the first chapter, placing the characters in their setting and initiating the mystery.

She would like to dispel the myth Another member volunteered “ At Longwood, I’m surrounded by that “retirement communities to pen the second chapter, are places to go and shut down wonderful, interesting people with based on the opening and your hopes and dreams. Even at lots of talent. We like to laugh suggestions made by others 80, I expect to stay creative and at dinner. “We proceeded and have fun, which has made the enjoy the process.” in that manner until we collaboration of writing this book Ducanis agrees. “We hope reached a point where a possible.” decision had to be made: ~Muriel Weeks that readers will recognize that members of today’s retirement ‘Was Laura alive or dead?’ ” communities have vital, Ducanis says. productive and even exciting lives, engaging in a variety of The group agreed on a short list of rules, including joint activities in the larger outside community as well as within the ownership of the project, including words, ideas and residence,” she says. characters. “This meant there would be no hurt feelings when Jane – “I’m 83 and proud of it!” – Reimers, found the project writings were edited or deleted,” Ducanis says. “Finally, it was agreed that the collaboration would stop when it ceased a new adventure. “It is still amazing to me that even though it was written by different people, it reads as though under the being fun.” pen of one writer,” she explains.

“At Longwood, I’m surrounded by wonderful, interesting people with lots of talent,” Weeks says. “We like to laugh and Table Lady Doreen Boyce jokes that she received feedback have fun, which has made the collaboration of writing this from her sister in England “who was already identifying book possible.” actresses for the movie.”

Table Lady Dorothy Armistead enjoyed the collaboration on “Where’s Laura?” “It was a joy to share in the excitement of producing a book. It was good to see good writing and storytelling get better through editing. It was a pleasure

Paul Peterson, senior director of Longwood says, “I’m so proud of the authors, a group of ladies who are among the many, many accomplished Longwood residents who exemplify successful living and are an inspiration to us all.”

PURCHASE THE BOOK! If you are interested in purchasing your own copy of Where’s Laura?, please visit Amazon, Barnes and Noble or the Mystery Lovers Bookshop at 514 Allegheny River Blvd., Oakmont. You may also purchase the book at Word Association Publishers in Tarentum. If you happen to be at our Longwood at Oakmont campus and want to buy a copy of the book, stop in the Gift Shop located in The Commons.

4|

THE BEAT: NEWS FROM AROUND THE NETWORK

THE BEAT: NEWS FROM AROUND THE NETWORK

Presbyterian SeniorCare Network serves over 6,500 older adults each year in a variety of settings. We are blessed to see the dreams and aspirations of the older adults we serve come to fruition – whether that be of their own accord or with a little bit of help from a collaborative partner. Check out these few snippets of happenings from around the Network.

Successful Living at its Finest

Longwood at Oakmont residents pen mystery novel, “Where’s Laura?”

O

ur dedication to being person-centered creates environments that allow our residents to thrive and fulfill their dreams and aspirations. A great example of “living the dream” can be found on our Longwood at Oakmont campus where eight of our residents recently published a novel. Read on to learn about the journey of these enthusiastic writers.

It wasn’t like Laura not to show up for their Tuesday dinners.

* Note: the following excerpt is adapted, for space, from a Dec. 18, 2016 feature story published in the Tribune Review.

service officer.

So it was only natural for the handful of women in the retirement community who sat at the same table in the dining room with her each week to be disconcerted. A hesitant check of her apartment yielded a cryptic voice message.

More anxious than ever, the women enlisted the help of a friend and neighbor, Robert Symonds, a former foreign

And so begins “Where’s Laura?”, the debut mystery novel was written by eight residents of Longwood who became known to other residents, noticing their lively conversations and laughter, as the Tuesday Table Ladies. The women chose the pseudonym of Octavia (“eight”) Long (as in Longwood) as the penname.

The idea had its genesis when one of this cheery gang of eight, Muriel Weeks, did not appear for dinner as expected. When someone asked, “Where’s Muriel?” it had the sound of a mystery title, recalls Anne Ducanis, another of the Table Ladies.

The authors of “Where’s Laura?” AKA The Tuesday Table Ladies! From L to R: Margaret Groninger, Jane Reimers, Muriel Weeks, Doreen Boyce, Nancy Courtney, Connie Fischer, Anne Ducanis and Dorothy Armistead. If you are interested in purchasing “Where’s Laura?”, you will find it at the Mystery Lovers’ Book Shop in Oakmont, as well as on Amazon and Kindle. A portion of the proceeds from the sales benefit the Longwood Life Care Fund for residents who may run out of resources to pay for their care.

“The idea of a mystery set in a retirement community was unusual and intriguing and we began to explore the possibilities,” she says. “When we started it was, ‘Let’s see if we can write a mystery,’ and we weren’t sure we would really be able to complete it. The fact that we persisted and managed to finish a fun read that people are enjoying is the best part.”

|5

to work with people who were gracious about having their contributions amended, making the story better,” she says. “We plan to start another Tuesday Table Lady mystery in January.”

Although some of the participants had previously published academic books, none had written a novel. Table Lady Margaret Groninger says the most challenging aspect of the project for her was “to reign in some of my wilder ideas about where the plot might go. I’d consider this book a total success if it inspires other retirees to get creative and explore their potential, whether in writing, art or music,” Groninger says.

Over a period of three years, they wrote and edited what became “Where’s Laura?” One of the Ladies volunteered to write the first chapter, placing the characters in their setting and initiating the mystery.

She would like to dispel the myth Another member volunteered “ At Longwood, I’m surrounded by that “retirement communities to pen the second chapter, are places to go and shut down wonderful, interesting people with based on the opening and your hopes and dreams. Even at lots of talent. We like to laugh suggestions made by others 80, I expect to stay creative and at dinner. “We proceeded and have fun, which has made the enjoy the process.” in that manner until we collaboration of writing this book Ducanis agrees. “We hope reached a point where a possible.” decision had to be made: ~Muriel Weeks that readers will recognize that members of today’s retirement ‘Was Laura alive or dead?’ ” communities have vital, Ducanis says. productive and even exciting lives, engaging in a variety of The group agreed on a short list of rules, including joint activities in the larger outside community as well as within the ownership of the project, including words, ideas and residence,” she says. characters. “This meant there would be no hurt feelings when Jane – “I’m 83 and proud of it!” – Reimers, found the project writings were edited or deleted,” Ducanis says. “Finally, it was agreed that the collaboration would stop when it ceased a new adventure. “It is still amazing to me that even though it was written by different people, it reads as though under the being fun.” pen of one writer,” she explains.

“At Longwood, I’m surrounded by wonderful, interesting people with lots of talent,” Weeks says. “We like to laugh and Table Lady Doreen Boyce jokes that she received feedback have fun, which has made the collaboration of writing this from her sister in England “who was already identifying book possible.” actresses for the movie.”

Table Lady Dorothy Armistead enjoyed the collaboration on “Where’s Laura?” “It was a joy to share in the excitement of producing a book. It was good to see good writing and storytelling get better through editing. It was a pleasure

Paul Peterson, senior director of Longwood says, “I’m so proud of the authors, a group of ladies who are among the many, many accomplished Longwood residents who exemplify successful living and are an inspiration to us all.”

PURCHASE THE BOOK! If you are interested in purchasing your own copy of Where’s Laura?, please visit Amazon, Barnes and Noble or the Mystery Lovers Bookshop at 514 Allegheny River Blvd., Oakmont. You may also purchase the book at Word Association Publishers in Tarentum. If you happen to be at our Longwood at Oakmont campus and want to buy a copy of the book, stop in the Gift Shop located in The Commons.

6|

THE BEAT: NEWS FROM AROUND THE NETWORK

THE BEAT: NEWS FROM AROUND THE NETWORK

Actions from the Heart BNY Mellon volunteers donate time which leads to grant funding

T

here is nothing that has the potential to fill your heart with happiness more than volunteering for something or someone you care about. But when that volunteer outreach turns into funding, your heart feels twice as large!

That is exactly how employees from BNY Mellon’s Pittsburgh office felt when they presented two of our affordable housing communities with checks for $500 each – funds that will be used for enrichment programs to benefit the residents at those two communities.

Employees from BNY Mellon Pittsburgh office have been volunteering at Silver Lake Commons in Homewood and Commons of North Aiken in Stanton Heights and have created quite a bond with the residents and team there.

You may be thinking, “Why would an investment firm have an interest in seniors?” It is because of the Community Partnership program. The program encourages volunteer and fundraising experiences in communities where BNY Mellon employees live and work.

Denise Thompson, community manager at Silver Lake Commons reflects, “BNY Mellon reached out to us about 10 years ago and have been volunteering ever since. We get great participation; usually about 50 of our residents come out to enjoy whatever the team has planned. We’ve done

WHAT IS AFFORDABLE HOUSING? Presbyterian SeniorCare Network offers supportive and affordable housing for older adults ages 62 and older, as well as for those 18 years and older with a disability. The goal of a supportive housing environment is to keep the resident in their apartment, living independently, for as long as possible.

Residents have available to them a service coordinator who can help them set up appointments and identify services and support as a need arises.

Generally, our supportive and affordable housing is income-based and residents must meet the requirements of the community.

We have over 35 locations ranging from options in the heart of Pittsburgh to more rural options. Visit SrCareNetwork.org to learn more and to explore community options.

|7

everything with the BNY team from cooking delicious meals to live bands to Bingo to arts and crafts and even themed events like Mardi Gras. When the volunteers are here, my residents…their faces just light up. Our time spent together means the world to me.”

The sentiment is reflected at Commons at North Aiken, where the team has been volunteering for over five years. Maria Farris, the community manager at the Commons at North Aiken, says, “It’s a way of showing how much they care for our elderly population, as well as how much they honor and respect them. The team at BNY Mellon shows a true passion and concern for the residents and I am always amazed by their creative way of caring and sharing with each other.”

Both Denise and Maria plan to host themed parties with the grant money as a way to celebrate the relationship with BNY Mellon as well as get the residents socializing within the community.

How has volunteering with our residents impacted the BNY Mellon team? Find out!

“I love volunteering with the seniors and team at Presbyterian SeniorCare Network. We always try to come up with fun, exciting, and creative ways to make the seniors smile, feel special and loved.

We appreciate the partnership we have with these communities because it enables us to make each event so much more personal and fun.

The residents always make a point to thank us and tell us how much they love and look forward to our events, which makes us love volunteering even more!” ~Tammi Ventura, Vice President, Product Manager

“I always look forward to interacting with the older adults! They are so appreciative of the time we spend together. It doesn’t feel like I’m volunteering at all, it feels like I’m sharing time with family. “ ~Janet Henderson Acie, Senior Benefits Specialist

“The residents enjoy the home cooked meals we prepare for them. I never hesitate to volunteer when asked. It is always my pleasure to provide to their needs and it warms my heart to see them satisfied and happy.” ~Larry Whiting, HRIS Analyst II

”I love volunteering with my co-workers and spending time with the seniors, especially when we call Bingo. It gives me a great feeling to be around people who appreciate us. The best moment that I experienced was one of the residents approached me as we were cleaning up – she told me that we really made her day.” ~Byron Allen, Project Manager

If you are interested at volunteering at any of our communities, visit SrCare.org/volunteer.

6|

THE BEAT: NEWS FROM AROUND THE NETWORK

THE BEAT: NEWS FROM AROUND THE NETWORK

Actions from the Heart BNY Mellon volunteers donate time which leads to grant funding

T

here is nothing that has the potential to fill your heart with happiness more than volunteering for something or someone you care about. But when that volunteer outreach turns into funding, your heart feels twice as large!

That is exactly how employees from BNY Mellon’s Pittsburgh office felt when they presented two of our affordable housing communities with checks for $500 each – funds that will be used for enrichment programs to benefit the residents at those two communities.

Employees from BNY Mellon Pittsburgh office have been volunteering at Silver Lake Commons in Homewood and Commons of North Aiken in Stanton Heights and have created quite a bond with the residents and team there.

You may be thinking, “Why would an investment firm have an interest in seniors?” It is because of the Community Partnership program. The program encourages volunteer and fundraising experiences in communities where BNY Mellon employees live and work.

Denise Thompson, community manager at Silver Lake Commons reflects, “BNY Mellon reached out to us about 10 years ago and have been volunteering ever since. We get great participation; usually about 50 of our residents come out to enjoy whatever the team has planned. We’ve done

WHAT IS AFFORDABLE HOUSING? Presbyterian SeniorCare Network offers supportive and affordable housing for older adults ages 62 and older, as well as for those 18 years and older with a disability. The goal of a supportive housing environment is to keep the resident in their apartment, living independently, for as long as possible.

Residents have available to them a service coordinator who can help them set up appointments and identify services and support as a need arises.

Generally, our supportive and affordable housing is income-based and residents must meet the requirements of the community.

We have over 35 locations ranging from options in the heart of Pittsburgh to more rural options. Visit SrCareNetwork.org to learn more and to explore community options.

|7

everything with the BNY team from cooking delicious meals to live bands to Bingo to arts and crafts and even themed events like Mardi Gras. When the volunteers are here, my residents…their faces just light up. Our time spent together means the world to me.”

The sentiment is reflected at Commons at North Aiken, where the team has been volunteering for over five years. Maria Farris, the community manager at the Commons at North Aiken, says, “It’s a way of showing how much they care for our elderly population, as well as how much they honor and respect them. The team at BNY Mellon shows a true passion and concern for the residents and I am always amazed by their creative way of caring and sharing with each other.”

Both Denise and Maria plan to host themed parties with the grant money as a way to celebrate the relationship with BNY Mellon as well as get the residents socializing within the community.

How has volunteering with our residents impacted the BNY Mellon team? Find out!

“I love volunteering with the seniors and team at Presbyterian SeniorCare Network. We always try to come up with fun, exciting, and creative ways to make the seniors smile, feel special and loved.

We appreciate the partnership we have with these communities because it enables us to make each event so much more personal and fun.

The residents always make a point to thank us and tell us how much they love and look forward to our events, which makes us love volunteering even more!” ~Tammi Ventura, Vice President, Product Manager

“I always look forward to interacting with the older adults! They are so appreciative of the time we spend together. It doesn’t feel like I’m volunteering at all, it feels like I’m sharing time with family. “ ~Janet Henderson Acie, Senior Benefits Specialist

“The residents enjoy the home cooked meals we prepare for them. I never hesitate to volunteer when asked. It is always my pleasure to provide to their needs and it warms my heart to see them satisfied and happy.” ~Larry Whiting, HRIS Analyst II

”I love volunteering with my co-workers and spending time with the seniors, especially when we call Bingo. It gives me a great feeling to be around people who appreciate us. The best moment that I experienced was one of the residents approached me as we were cleaning up – she told me that we really made her day.” ~Byron Allen, Project Manager

If you are interested at volunteering at any of our communities, visit SrCare.org/volunteer.

8|

FEATURE STORY CONTINUED

From the Heart: Betty May, resident at the Manchester Commons personal care community in Erie “Taking care of housework, grocery shopping and daily activities while living alone was becoming difficult for me.

I chose to come to Manchester Commons because I wanted to feel safe and know that I would be cared for.

My time here has been a blessing in so many ways.

Each day, I choose to spend my time doing what I want to do­– like today. I worked on a quilt, did my laundry and cared for my plants – just like I did when I lived at home.

To be honest, the best parts about my day are going to yoga class in our fitness room and also to church service in our chapel. I like having other residents to talk with.

I’ve made such wonderful friends here!

But most importantly, I feel comfort in knowing that I am a part of a caring community where I’m not burdened by the responsibilities of living alone.”

Great Rehab Only a Heartbeat Away When June Saint started having cramps in her legs, she never imagined the cramping would result in a fall that would land her in rehab.

and to be honest, barely remember my hospital stay.” When June was well enough to be discharged, she went right to short-term rehab at Southmont.

When June fell, she felt very lucky that she lived at Bellmead Apartments, our supportive and affordable housing community located right next to our Southmont skilled nursing community on the Washington campus.

Bellmead, which features residential living for low-income older adults or persons with disabilities, also provides supportive services when and if a resident needs them.

June benefitted greatly from the proximity of the communities. There was no need to even cross the street – she felt like she was right at home as she recovered. June says, “There was no question, I had to do rehab. So I was pretty glad I had the option to do it at Southmont. The team was so compassionate. My two week stay in shortterm rehab was such a wonderful experience.”

“Sometimes things happen that are out of your control. I fell when I went to reach for something. It was painful. But I took my shoe off and I pounded on the floor and wall until someone heard me,” June says. June’s neighbor did hear her and went to get help.

If June had not been in a community surrounded by fellow residents and friends, she may not have been found for days.

June loved that she could do her own thing – she spent her time playing games with her fellow residents. She even had her first manicure, which she said was “such a treat!”

June was rushed to the hospital where they found several broken bones in her back. “I was delirious from the pain

When asked what she loved most about her stay at Southmont, June says, “The homelike environment. I made so many new friends. Really, between Southmont and Bellmead, we are all one big family, all looking out for one another. It really made all the difference.”

When June was healthy and strong enough to return to her apartment, she was greeted warmly. “It felt like a parade!

I had three aides with me and when I walked in the door at Bellmead, my fellow residents started clapping for me.

What a welcome!”

June is back to living independently, thanks to the team at Southmont. And she feels secure knowing that she has a great support system around her at Bellmead Apartments.

|9

WINTER 2017

Grab Your Sneakers!

1215 Hulton Road Oakmont PA 15139-1196 www.SrCare.org 1-877-772-6500

Your steps help to enrich the lives of our residents

Why should you walk with us? The answer is simple – our residents. While Highmark underwrites the cost of the Walk, all funds raised by our Walk teams come directly back to our organization. We participate in Walks in both Pittsburgh and Erie to support our residents at those locations.

Venango

REGISTRATION IS OPEN! Visit SrCare.org/events to register for the Walk in your area. Remember, we want to be the biggest group at the Walk – we need you there with your best sneakers on!

PITTSBURGH WALK When: Saturday, May 13, 9 a.m.

Where: Stage AE, North Shore, Pittsburgh ERIE WALK When: Saturday, June 3, 9 a.m.

Where: Beach 11 at Presque Isle State Park

To register, visit SrCare.org/events.

Cameron P7

Lycoming

Elk

Mercer

OHIO

On the Go? Want to Save Paper?

Our Erie campuses raise money for their Employee Assistance Fund for employees who may be in a time of crisis and need a little extra help, but have nowhere to turn.

We walk because our residents and team members are the center of everything that we do – we fundraise to enhance quality of life. If you are unable to join us for the Walk, consider donating. Donations to our Walk Teams can be made by visiting SrCare.org/events and by clicking on the Walk event of your choice.

THE STORIES THAT UNITE US

Clinton

If you’d like to receive future newsletters in your inbox, visit our web site, www.SrCare.org, to sign up for E-news.

OUR COMMUNITIES MAP

P6|N6 P7|N7

PERSONAL CARE

P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7

Southminster Place Westminster Place Woodside Place Longwood at Oakmont Shenango on the Green Manchester Commons Elmwood Gardens

4

NURSING CARE

N1 N2 N3 N4 N5 N6 N7 N8

Southmont The Willows Longwood at Oakmont Shenango on the Green Villa St. Joseph* Manchester Commons Elmwood Gardens Oakwood Heights

$

CONTINUING CARE

C1 C2

Longwood at Oakmont Shenango on the Green

# W W W W

W W W W W W

Crawford

SENIOR CONDOMINIUMS

SC1 Redstone Court* SC2 Woodlands at Redstone* SC3 Woodlands Village I & II*

S28 S18

Warren

Beaver Venango

McKean

Butler Forest

N5

Tioga

Armstrong Potter

Mercer

Mifflin

S5 Elk Cameron

P4|N3|S20|C1

Clarion

P5|N4|C2 S27

S17 S31 S29

S23

S24

S28

S15

S19 S30

S26 Jefferson S7

Huntingdon

Clearfield

P2

Montour

Centre

S9

Lackawanna

Blair

Columbia

Pike

Juniata

Monroe

Cambria

Union

NEW JERSEY

Carbon

S22

S11

Butler

S5

N5 S10

Beaver

S8

Westmoreland

Armstrong

Allegheny

S13

P1|N1|S2

Washington

S3

S16

S3

Somerset

Fayette Greene

Greene

WEST VIRGINIA

MARYLAND

Fulton

S1|S12

Franklin

Adams

Fayette

Bucks

Somerset

York

Fulton

Bedford

Philadelphia Chester

Delaware

DELAWARE

© 2017 Presbyterian SeniorCare Network | 1.17

WEST VIRGINIA

Lancaster

VIRGINIA

MARYLAND

OurCumberland Person-Centered Approach Adams Franklin to Care Hunterdon

Berks Lebanon

Cumberland

S21 Bedford S1|S12

Dauphin

Perry

Montgomery

S16 S21

Lehigh

Juniata

Cambria

Washington Westmoreland

SC1|2|3

Northampton

Northumberland Schuylkill

Indiana

P1|N1|S2

S13

Snyder

Mifflin

Huntingdon Blair

S11

Perry

Warren

S25 S18

Snyd

Wyoming

Luzerne

Clinton

P3|N2

S6

Sullivan

Indiana Lycoming

Allegheny S14

Bradford Wayne

N8

Lawrence

Uni

Susquehanna

SUPPORTIVE & AFFORDABLE HOUSING

S1 Beeson Court S2 Bellmead Apartments S3 Bridge Street Commons S4 Commons at North Aiken S5 Commons of Saxonburg S6 Etna Commons* S7 Fairmont Apartments S8 Fifth Avenue Commons S9 Forward Shady Apartments* S10 Green Diamond Place S11 HaveLoch Commons S12 The Heritage* S13 Heritage House of Houston S14 Mt. Nazareth Commons S15 Negley Commons D S16 The Oaks at Center in the Woods S17 Page Place Apartments D S18 Park Manor Apartments S19 Plum Creek Acres S20 PlumWood Apartments D S21 Poplar Lane Court S22 Riverview Towers* S23 Robinson Manor* S24 St. Justin Plaza* S25 St. Therese Plaza* S26 Silver Lake Commons S27 SpruceWood Commons S28 Sunbury Fields S29 Timothy Place D S30 Sweetbriar Place* S31 York Commons

3

Lawrence

NEW YORK

Centre

Erie

W Denotes communities that offer the Woodside Program, specialized Alzheimer’s and dementia care D Denotes supportive housing for persons with disabilities * Denotes communities which are not owned or sponsored by Presbyterian SeniorCare but are managed by our affiliate, SeniorCare Network

1

Jefferson

S27

LAKE ERIE

Denotes counties with Longwood at Home and Presbyterian SeniorCare at Home specialty programs

Clearfield

Clarion

P5|N4|C2

WEST VIRGINIA

Although we’ve always had a good showing of supporters walk with us – we want MORE! If your New Year’s resolution was to get more steps in, join our Walk team we need your help in being the largest group at the Walk!

In the Pittsburgh area, every dollar we raise supports resident enrichment programs at our Oakmont, Washington and Longwood campuses, as well as for our more than 35 affordable housing communities.

OHIO

F

ebruary is coming to a close and we are all tired of looking at gray skies and snowflakes.

Don’t fret – sunny days will be here soon!

When the sun finally starts to shine once more, we want YOU to join us for the annual Highmark Walk for a Healthy Community! The Walk for a Healthy Community is an annual fundraising event that supports local health and human services agencies in Pennsylvania – organizations like Presbyterian SeniorCare Network!

WEST VIRGINIA

UPCOMING EVENTS

A NOTE FROM THE PRESIDENT & CEO

NOURISHING THE HEART AND SOUL

CAPTURING THE HEART

W

For many, there is no greater way to feed the soul than spending time in the great outdoors! This was the case of Sam, a Longwood at Home member whose love for the outdoors was challenged by a sudden healthcare change. Sam joined the Longwood at Home program in 2011 as an active, healthy adult. He loved the outdoors and frequently hit the hiking trails.

For residents from our personal communities at Oakmont, a picture is worth more than a thousand words.

Once a month, a small group from our Woodside Place dementia care community, along with residents from Westminster Place, enjoy painting to their heart’s content at The Andy Warhol Museum.

hen you received this issue in your mailbox, I hope you looked at it and said “wow!” The look is new and the name has changed from Positive Notes to heartlines.

IN THIS ISSUE A Person-Centered Culture...... 1 From the Foundation.................. 2 Planned Giving Corner............... 3 The Beat: News from around the Network...............4-7 Upcoming Events........................ 9

Across Presbyterian SeniorCare Network, we are joined at the heart in our commitment to being person-centered and in our calling to serve, which heartlines will reflect anew.

If you’ve ever had your palm read, the heart line is one of the three major indicators of how a person approaches the world. If you have a long heart line, it means that you are passionate, exhibit warmth, and are concerned about the well-being of others. These attributes are at the heart of how we do what we do every day as a person-centered organization. Our person-centered culture is about respect, and acknowledging and appreciating one another’s similarities and differences. It’s about being welcoming and showing our passion for caring for all.

It’s about diversity and inclusion. And, it’s about lifting people up and supporting them wherever they are on their life’s journey.

“Everyone has been made for some particular work, and the desire for that work has been put in every heart.” ~Rumi

ABOUT THE COVER At Presbyterian SeniorCare Network, we embrace a personcentered philosophy, a heartfelt approach that is rooted in our dedication to meeting the unique needs and desires of everyone; whether it is our residents and families, our employees and partners or our donors. It’s our way of respecting the personhood of each individual we serve, no matter where they are in life’s journey.

WINTER 2017

THE STORIES THAT

UNITE US

Our Person-Centered Approach to Care

Similarly, we are pleased to share our updated Mission and Values statements, which also better reflect our organization’s evolution to being person-centered in all that we say and do. We are privileged to serve more than 6,500 older adults and persons with disabilities annually throughout 10 western Pennsylvania counties. And, it is our hope that through our words and actions, you will continue to be inspired and supportive of our efforts.

Thank you for opening your hearts to Presbyterian SeniorCare Network.

Thank you for having a heart for our mission.

Paul M. Winkler President & CEO

The MISSION STATEMENT conveys our organization’s purpose and what we do: Presbyterian SeniorCare Network is committed to enriching the aging experience through personcentered service and living options.

The VALUES STATEMENT works in tandem with the mission and highlights what we believe in and how we will behave: Grounded in Christ-like values of benevolence and love of neighbor, we pursue excellence, innovation and collaboration to ensure individuals live well and team members have meaningful work.

In 2013, Sam’s life changed when he was diagnosed with dementia. Sam was committed to continuing to live in his home and doing the things that he loved, but he needed a little bit of help. His Longwood at Home care coordinator knew that Sam was physically strong despite facing declining cognitive abilities. She was determined to help Sam stay engaged so that he didn’t feel as if his fierce independence was being threatened. Her solution was quite creative. She searched and found the perfect at-home caregiver, one who shared Sam’s passion for hiking.

How heartwarming it was to see Sam’s joy as he continued to experience walks in the woods with his caregiver each Wednesday – something he was fortunate enough to have been able to do up until the very day before he passed away last year.

With the help of a museum educator, they create silkscreen masterpieces – everything from flowers to portraits of Andy Warhol himself – that capture the heart. At Presbyterian SeniorCare Network, we recognize the power of art not only to promote health, but also to create personal, positive experiences that enrich the lives of our residents and encourage their selfexpression.

Everyone across Presbyterian SeniorCare Network is connected through our commitment to being person-centered.

In fact, it’s our culture. And it’s what makes us uniquely different in terms of how we serve others and how we treat one another as co-workers. It’s about creating WELCOMING ENVIRONMENTS, offering FLEXIBILITY and CHOICE, and KEEP YOUR HEART PUMPING having a heart for SERVING OTHERS. The stories are daily – from simple heartfelt words to Ruth Weir was only 5 years old when she was inspired by Amelia Earhart. She innovative care solutions, our team set her heart on learning to fly planes as soon as she was able. Her dream came members are making a personal true when Ruth joined the Navy during WWII and was able to take advantage of free difference in the lives of flying lessons. Before she knew it, she had lessons under her belt, was out of the Navy and all who we are privileged flying a two-seater, twin engine civilian plane. to serve.

An adventurous soul, Ruth decided in her mid-80s that she was ready for even more excitement. She found a lovely garden apartment at Longwood at Oakmont, where her love of life continued to take flight.

At age 85, Ruth decided that, instead of flying planes, she’d jump out of them. Encouraged by her family and Longwood friends, Ruth met her goal – three dives – the final one this summer at the age of 92. Ruth’s great joys in life have been when she followed her heart.

MAKING HEARTS SMILE At Shenango on the Green, the Presbyterian SeniorCare Network continuing care community nestled in the charming town of New Wilmington, Norm Cochran is known as the “movie man.”

He came up with the idea of hosting Friday Movie Night each week. It keeps him busy and active and he takes his work to heart. Norm researches and picks all of the movies himself and is pleased by the wholehearted support he receives for his efforts.

“When we have a real hot new release that has a lot of publicity we get as many as 40 people,” he notes.

“Management supplies the popcorn and a number of us bag it and pass it out so everyone gets what they want.”

A NOTE FROM THE PRESIDENT & CEO

NOURISHING THE HEART AND SOUL

CAPTURING THE HEART

W

For many, there is no greater way to feed the soul than spending time in the great outdoors! This was the case of Sam, a Longwood at Home member whose love for the outdoors was challenged by a sudden healthcare change. Sam joined the Longwood at Home program in 2011 as an active, healthy adult. He loved the outdoors and frequently hit the hiking trails.

For residents from our personal communities at Oakmont, a picture is worth more than a thousand words.

Once a month, a small group from our Woodside Place dementia care community, along with residents from Westminster Place, enjoy painting to their heart’s content at The Andy Warhol Museum.

hen you received this issue in your mailbox, I hope you looked at it and said “wow!” The look is new and the name has changed from Positive Notes to heartlines.

IN THIS ISSUE A Person-Centered Culture...... 1 From the Foundation.................. 2 Planned Giving Corner............... 3 The Beat: News from around the Network...............4-7 Upcoming Events........................ 9

Across Presbyterian SeniorCare Network, we are joined at the heart in our commitment to being person-centered and in our calling to serve, which heartlines will reflect anew.

If you’ve ever had your palm read, the heart line is one of the three major indicators of how a person approaches the world. If you have a long heart line, it means that you are passionate, exhibit warmth, and are concerned about the well-being of others. These attributes are at the heart of how we do what we do every day as a person-centered organization. Our person-centered culture is about respect, and acknowledging and appreciating one another’s similarities and differences. It’s about being welcoming and showing our passion for caring for all.

It’s about diversity and inclusion. And, it’s about lifting people up and supporting them wherever they are on their life’s journey.

“Everyone has been made for some particular work, and the desire for that work has been put in every heart.” ~Rumi

ABOUT THE COVER At Presbyterian SeniorCare Network, we embrace a personcentered philosophy, a heartfelt approach that is rooted in our dedication to meeting the unique needs and desires of everyone; whether it is our residents and families, our employees and partners or our donors. It’s our way of respecting the personhood of each individual we serve, no matter where they are in life’s journey.

WINTER 2017

THE STORIES THAT

UNITE US

Our Person-Centered Approach to Care

Similarly, we are pleased to share our updated Mission and Values statements, which also better reflect our organization’s evolution to being person-centered in all that we say and do. We are privileged to serve more than 6,500 older adults and persons with disabilities annually throughout 10 western Pennsylvania counties. And, it is our hope that through our words and actions, you will continue to be inspired and supportive of our efforts.

Thank you for opening your hearts to Presbyterian SeniorCare Network.

Thank you for having a heart for our mission.

Paul M. Winkler President & CEO

The MISSION STATEMENT conveys our organization’s purpose and what we do: Presbyterian SeniorCare Network is committed to enriching the aging experience through personcentered service and living options.

The VALUES STATEMENT works in tandem with the mission and highlights what we believe in and how we will behave: Grounded in Christ-like values of benevolence and love of neighbor, we pursue excellence, innovation and collaboration to ensure individuals live well and team members have meaningful work.

In 2013, Sam’s life changed when he was diagnosed with dementia. Sam was committed to continuing to live in his home and doing the things that he loved, but he needed a little bit of help. His Longwood at Home care coordinator knew that Sam was physically strong despite facing declining cognitive abilities. She was determined to help Sam stay engaged so that he didn’t feel as if his fierce independence was being threatened. Her solution was quite creative. She searched and found the perfect at-home caregiver, one who shared Sam’s passion for hiking.

How heartwarming it was to see Sam’s joy as he continued to experience walks in the woods with his caregiver each Wednesday – something he was fortunate enough to have been able to do up until the very day before he passed away last year.

With the help of a museum educator, they create silkscreen masterpieces – everything from flowers to portraits of Andy Warhol himself – that capture the heart. At Presbyterian SeniorCare Network, we recognize the power of art not only to promote health, but also to create personal, positive experiences that enrich the lives of our residents and encourage their selfexpression.

Everyone across Presbyterian SeniorCare Network is connected through our commitment to being person-centered.

In fact, it’s our culture. And it’s what makes us uniquely different in terms of how we serve others and how we treat one another as co-workers. It’s about creating WELCOMING ENVIRONMENTS, offering FLEXIBILITY and CHOICE, and KEEP YOUR HEART PUMPING having a heart for SERVING OTHERS. The stories are daily – from simple heartfelt words to Ruth Weir was only 5 years old when she was inspired by Amelia Earhart. She innovative care solutions, our team set her heart on learning to fly planes as soon as she was able. Her dream came members are making a personal true when Ruth joined the Navy during WWII and was able to take advantage of free difference in the lives of flying lessons. Before she knew it, she had lessons under her belt, was out of the Navy and all who we are privileged flying a two-seater, twin engine civilian plane. to serve.

An adventurous soul, Ruth decided in her mid-80s that she was ready for even more excitement. She found a lovely garden apartment at Longwood at Oakmont, where her love of life continued to take flight.

At age 85, Ruth decided that, instead of flying planes, she’d jump out of them. Encouraged by her family and Longwood friends, Ruth met her goal – three dives – the final one this summer at the age of 92. Ruth’s great joys in life have been when she followed her heart.

MAKING HEARTS SMILE At Shenango on the Green, the Presbyterian SeniorCare Network continuing care community nestled in the charming town of New Wilmington, Norm Cochran is known as the “movie man.”

He came up with the idea of hosting Friday Movie Night each week. It keeps him busy and active and he takes his work to heart. Norm researches and picks all of the movies himself and is pleased by the wholehearted support he receives for his efforts.

“When we have a real hot new release that has a lot of publicity we get as many as 40 people,” he notes.

“Management supplies the popcorn and a number of us bag it and pass it out so everyone gets what they want.”

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WINTER 2017

Grab Your Sneakers!

1215 Hulton Road Oakmont PA 15139-1196 www.SrCare.org 1-877-772-6500

Your steps help to enrich the lives of our residents

Why should you walk with us? The answer is simple – our residents. While Highmark underwrites the cost of the Walk, all funds raised by our Walk teams come directly back to our organization. We participate in Walks in both Pittsburgh and Erie to support our residents at those locations.

Venango

REGISTRATION IS OPEN! Visit SrCare.org/events to register for the Walk in your area. Remember, we want to be the biggest group at the Walk – we need you there with your best sneakers on!

PITTSBURGH WALK When: Saturday, May 13, 9 a.m.

Where: Stage AE, North Shore, Pittsburgh ERIE WALK When: Saturday, June 3, 9 a.m.

Where: Beach 11 at Presque Isle State Park

To register, visit SrCare.org/events.

Cameron P7

Lycoming

Elk

Mercer

OHIO

On the Go? Want to Save Paper?

Our Erie campuses raise money for their Employee Assistance Fund for employees who may be in a time of crisis and need a little extra help, but have nowhere to turn.

We walk because our residents and team members are the center of everything that we do – we fundraise to enhance quality of life. If you are unable to join us for the Walk, consider donating. Donations to our Walk Teams can be made by visiting SrCare.org/events and by clicking on the Walk event of your choice.

THE STORIES THAT UNITE US

Clinton

If you’d like to receive future newsletters in your inbox, visit our web site, www.SrCare.org, to sign up for E-news.

OUR COMMUNITIES MAP

P6|N6 P7|N7

PERSONAL CARE

P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7

Southminster Place Westminster Place Woodside Place Longwood at Oakmont Shenango on the Green Manchester Commons Elmwood Gardens

4

NURSING CARE

N1 N2 N3 N4 N5 N6 N7 N8

Southmont The Willows Longwood at Oakmont Shenango on the Green Villa St. Joseph* Manchester Commons Elmwood Gardens Oakwood Heights

$

CONTINUING CARE

C1 C2

Longwood at Oakmont Shenango on the Green

# W W W W

W W W W W W

Crawford

SENIOR CONDOMINIUMS

SC1 Redstone Court* SC2 Woodlands at Redstone* SC3 Woodlands Village I & II*

S28 S18

Warren

Beaver Venango

McKean

Butler Forest

N5

Tioga

Armstrong Potter

Mercer

Mifflin

S5 Elk Cameron

P4|N3|S20|C1

Clarion

P5|N4|C2 S27

S17 S31 S29

S23

S24

S28

S15

S19 S30

S26 Jefferson S7

Huntingdon

Clearfield

P2

Montour

Centre

S9

Lackawanna

Blair

Columbia

Pike

Juniata

Monroe

Cambria

Union

NEW JERSEY

Carbon

S22

S11

Butler

S5

N5 S10

Beaver

S8

Westmoreland

Armstrong

Allegheny

S13

P1|N1|S2

Washington

S3

S16

S3

Somerset

Fayette Greene

Greene

WEST VIRGINIA

MARYLAND

Fulton

S1|S12

Franklin

Adams

Fayette

Bucks

Somerset

York

Fulton

Bedford

Philadelphia Chester

Delaware

DELAWARE

© 2017 Presbyterian SeniorCare Network | 1.17

WEST VIRGINIA

Lancaster

VIRGINIA

MARYLAND

OurCumberland Person-Centered Approach Adams Franklin to Care Hunterdon

Berks Lebanon

Cumberland

S21 Bedford S1|S12

Dauphin

Perry

Montgomery

S16 S21

Lehigh

Juniata

Cambria

Washington Westmoreland

SC1|2|3

Northampton

Northumberland Schuylkill

Indiana

P1|N1|S2

S13

Snyder

Mifflin

Huntingdon Blair

S11

Perry

Warren

S25 S18

Snyd

Wyoming

Luzerne

Clinton

P3|N2

S6

Sullivan

Indiana Lycoming

Allegheny S14

Bradford Wayne

N8

Lawrence

Uni

Susquehanna

SUPPORTIVE & AFFORDABLE HOUSING

S1 Beeson Court S2 Bellmead Apartments S3 Bridge Street Commons S4 Commons at North Aiken S5 Commons of Saxonburg S6 Etna Commons* S7 Fairmont Apartments S8 Fifth Avenue Commons S9 Forward Shady Apartments* S10 Green Diamond Place S11 HaveLoch Commons S12 The Heritage* S13 Heritage House of Houston S14 Mt. Nazareth Commons S15 Negley Commons D S16 The Oaks at Center in the Woods S17 Page Place Apartments D S18 Park Manor Apartments S19 Plum Creek Acres S20 PlumWood Apartments D S21 Poplar Lane Court S22 Riverview Towers* S23 Robinson Manor* S24 St. Justin Plaza* S25 St. Therese Plaza* S26 Silver Lake Commons S27 SpruceWood Commons S28 Sunbury Fields S29 Timothy Place D S30 Sweetbriar Place* S31 York Commons

3

Lawrence

NEW YORK

Centre

Erie

W Denotes communities that offer the Woodside Program, specialized Alzheimer’s and dementia care D Denotes supportive housing for persons with disabilities * Denotes communities which are not owned or sponsored by Presbyterian SeniorCare but are managed by our affiliate, SeniorCare Network

1

Jefferson

S27

LAKE ERIE

Denotes counties with Longwood at Home and Presbyterian SeniorCare at Home specialty programs

Clearfield

Clarion

P5|N4|C2

WEST VIRGINIA

Although we’ve always had a good showing of supporters walk with us – we want MORE! If your New Year’s resolution was to get more steps in, join our Walk team we need your help in being the largest group at the Walk!

In the Pittsburgh area, every dollar we raise supports resident enrichment programs at our Oakmont, Washington and Longwood campuses, as well as for our more than 35 affordable housing communities.

OHIO

F

ebruary is coming to a close and we are all tired of looking at gray skies and snowflakes.

Don’t fret – sunny days will be here soon!

When the sun finally starts to shine once more, we want YOU to join us for the annual Highmark Walk for a Healthy Community! The Walk for a Healthy Community is an annual fundraising event that supports local health and human services agencies in Pennsylvania – organizations like Presbyterian SeniorCare Network!

WEST VIRGINIA

UPCOMING EVENTS