CLOSE
Seniors

by -
0 555

For the months of August and September, the Long Island Game Farm will offer a new social club for seniors. Every Tuesday morning from August 1 through September 26, senior citizens (65 years+) can visit the animals, walk the grounds (get your steps in!), attend a presentation in the newly renovated Woodland Hall, and enjoy a beverage and snacks with fellow seniors. 

Long Island Game Farm Wildlife Park and Children’s Zoo was founded in 1970 by Stanley and Diane Novak. As the largest combined children’s zoo and wildlife park on Long Island, they offer families a natural environment where they can learn about wildlife and animals through education and entertainment. A member of American Association of Zookeepers and Zoological Association of America, the farm is located at 489 Chapman Boulevard in Manorville.

“Inspiring a love of nature through educational programming is important to our mission,” shares Long Island Game Farm president Melinda Novak. “Being able to launch a special social club for seniors and utilize the newly renovated Woodland Hall for this purpose is pretty exciting for us. I’m also excited to give the first presentation about life on the game farm, including my family’s 50+ year history.”

Each week guests will begin a walk on the grounds at 10 a.m., visiting animals and learning more about the various species at the game farm. At 11 a.m., seniors will gather in Woodland Hall for talks that will vary weekly. Topics include rescued animals, birding, nature photography, and more.

Tickets are $10 per person and for seniors only. Please do not bring grandchildren. Pets are not allowed. Reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made by calling 631-878-6644. For more information about the game farm and upcoming programming, visit longislandgamefarm.com.

by -
0 899
1 of 3
Jefferson’s Ferry President and CEO Bob Caulfield (center) snips the ribbon to commemorate the opening of the Life Plan Community’s fully renovated and expanded Community Center. Joining Caulfield are (left to right) Jefferson’s Ferry board members James E. Danowski, CPA, Vice Chair; John R. Sini, CPA, Treasurer; Gloria Snyder, Chair; along with Jefferson’s Ferry Resident Council Chair Pat Boone, and Construction Project Manager Matthew Moroney. Photo from Jefferson's Ferry
Jefferson's Ferry residents and staff filled the lobby of the new Commons building to witness the ribbon cutting and take a tour of the new building. Photo from Jefferson's Ferry
Jefferson's Ferry Board Members joined Jefferson's Ferry President and CEO Bob Caulfield (center) to commemorate the opening of the Life Plan Community's new Commons building. Pictured with Caulfield (l-r) are trustees Kenneth Roberts, John R. Sini, CPA, Treasurer; Gloria Snyder, Chair; and James E. Danowski, CPA, Vice Chair. Photo from Jefferson's Ferry

The lobby of Jefferson’s Ferry community center was abuzz on June 5 as residents, employees and guests packed in to witness the ceremonial ribbon cutting of the Life Plan community’s new commons building. The mood was buoyant as residents and friends prepared to embark on tours of the spaces.

The audience joined in on the countdown as scissors wielded by Jefferson’s Ferry’s President and CEO Bob Caulfield; Board of Directors Chair Gloria Snyder; Vice Chair James Danowski and Treasurer John Sini; Resident Council Chair Pat Boone and Construction Project Manager Matthew Moroney cut the ribbon to enthusiastic applause. 

Addressing the crowd, Bob Caulfield thanked the residents and staff for their patience and support during the renovation process, dubbed Journey Toward Renewal, which has taken place in stages over the past several years. Additional renovations and expansions are currently underway in Jefferson’s Ferry’s Vincent Bove Health Center, including a new Memory Care Unit which is expected to open in the fall.  

“This is a landmark day for us, as our new commons building adds beautiful new spaces to our community center, the heart of Jefferson’s Ferry,” said Caulfield. “We’ve all been patiently awaiting this day, and I thank every one of you who has been as eager as I have been to celebrate this major milestone. This includes the Board of Trustees, who had the strategic foresight and financial oversight of the ambitious project, our construction team, who labored to complete this phase of the project, and of course, our residents and staff.”

Among the latest updates and additions to the social and recreational aspects of the community center are a variety of new gathering spaces, including a larger and redesigned creative arts center, expanded card rooms for the popular bridge and gin rummy tournaments, and a game room with billiards, ping pong, shuffle boards and large screen television.  Another bright open space is dedicated to puzzling, newspaper reading and socializing.  The fitness center, which can be accessed 24-7 through a separate keypad operated entrance includes a full complement of exercise machines, a dance/yoga studio and separate locker rooms with showers for men and women.  Right down the hall, a salon offers hair cuts and styling, manicure and pedicures by appointment.  

Earlier this year, six new dining venues opened, each one offering a distinct menu to suit a variety of tastes and preferences. Options range from grab and go to casual, and from pub dining to a more formal dining room.

Adjacent to the workout rooms is a new physical therapy and rehabilitation suite that includes a replica of a Jefferson’s Ferry apartment that enables residents to easily transfer what they’ve learned during rehabilitation to their own home.  The rehabilitation suite also features an outdoor therapy courtyard with different surface areas and slopes to help residents fare better in a variety of indoor and outdoor environments post rehab.   

The addition of the commons building has made room for an expansion of the Health and Wellness Program.  Residents can now schedule in-house physician visits with doctors and a nurse practitioner who offer office hours at Jefferson’s Ferry.

“Since its opening in 2001 as the first not for profit Life Plan community on Long Island, Jefferson’s Ferry has set the standard for continuing care for older adults, providing a vibrant, caring community and peace of mind to its residents,” concluded Caulfield. “Over our more than 20 years in operation, Jefferson’s Ferry has continued to evolve to meet the changing needs of the people who have made Jefferson’s Ferry their home. Journey Toward Renewal is evidence of our commitment to excellence.”

Jefferson’s Ferry, a not-for-profit Life Plan Community for active adults aged 62 and above, is located at One Jefferson’s Ferry Drive in South Setauket. For more information, call 631-650-2600 or visit www.jeffersonsferry.org

by -
0 828
Photo from Pixabay
By Aidan Johnson

With ongoing concerns about young adults leaving Long Island, other age demographics may be looking for the escape hatch.

Adults aged 60 and over, who account for roughly 20% of Suffolk County’s population according to a 2022 report from the Suffolk County Office for the Aging, have been feeling the impact of Long Island’s high prices as well.

Eric Stutz, a real estate broker based out of Baldwin who specializes in seniors and estates, said he sees Long Island as below average in being a senior-friendly place.

“I see a lot of my clients are heading to the Southeast, between North Carolina, Tennessee, Florida,” he said in a phone interview. “That seems to be the majority.”

Recently, a pair of Stutz’s clients had to choose between staying on Long Island with two of their children or moving to North Carolina, where their daughter lived.

“It was a tough decision, it took a couple of years,” Stutz said. “But their main reason for moving to North Carolina … was the cost of living on Long Island.”

JoAnn Kullack, the chair of Long Island’s chapter of the Retired Public Employees Association, sees many other senior citizens having to choose between living on Long Island or finding somewhere more affordable.

“Most seniors that I know do complain about the cost of living,” she said.

‘Most seniors that I know do complain about the cost of living.’

— JoAnn Kullack

Kullack believes that one of the big draws of staying on the Island for seniors is the abundance of medical care. Big university hospitals, such as Stony Brook, and the closeness of Manhattan hospitals and specialists offer valid incentives for seniors to want to stay.

“A lot of people that I know want to stay here on Long Island,” due to access to premium health care services, Kullack said. “They don’t wish to leave.” 

Kullack suggested lowering the utility rates could offer much-needed relief to Long Island’s senior citizens. While some programs are available that can assist, she added the qualifications are often unrealistic.

“A lot of people don’t qualify,” the RPEA chair said. “If you have two people in the household, you have to be [only earning] $30,000. How can you live here on that?” 

 “You’re taking into consideration paying taxes, paying for utilities, and even if you have no mortgage on your home, you still have to have enough money for food,” she added.

Town of Brookhaven Councilwoman Jane Bonner (R-Rocky Point) views Long Island as a challenging place to live, especially for those who do not make a lot of money.

“We need to address the high tax rate on Long Island,” she said in a phone interview. “We need to do a better job of taking care of our seniors and veterans. So many of our seniors are house rich and cash poor.”

Long Island can also be tough to navigate for seniors who cannot drive, as there is a lack of adequate public transportation.

“I know myself and my husband do a fair amount of taking our moms to doctor appointments and shopping,” Bonner said, adding, “Transportation services are cut when budgets are tight — bus routes are removed.” 

Brookhaven does have programs aimed at helping seniors who may have trouble with transportation, Bonner explained. Still, the town does seek to assist its aging population where it can. 

“We have our senior clubs, our senior transportation, nutrition at our senior centers and Meals on Wheels. We do our part.”

Bonner added that she wants to see seniors be able to “age in place,” where they want to be, instead of being pushed out.

“That’s what we need because if we can provide resources for our seniors to age in a place where they are most comfortable — in their home. It is more affordable that way than building large-scale senior complexes,” the councilwoman said.

by -
0 519
Stock photo

Mt. Sinai Congregational Church, 233 North Country Road, Mount Sinai invites the surrounding community to attend a free “Senior Safety” presentation by Officer Sergio Moller on Wednesday, June 21 at 2 p.m. in Voorhees Hall. The presentation will cover cons and scams, personal protection, shopping and banking, ID theft, safety on the road, home protection, and services for seniors. Call Jayne at the church office to reserve your seat. 631-473-1582.

by -
0 284
Photo from Town of Smithtown

The Smithtown Senior Citizens Department offers in-home medical alert monitoring services to its senior residents aged 62 and older. Medical alert clients simply wear an easy-touch activator that can be worn as a pendant or on the wrist. When activated, professionally trained emergency response operators are available 24/7 to help. This medical alert system allows seniors to live independently, with the comfort and peace of mind knowing that help is just a touch away.

“Our objective with this personal emergency response system is to ensure the wellbeing of our seniors and enable them to remain independent and safe in their homes. Additionally, the device provides seniors with peace of mind, in knowing that if they ever need help, they will get it,” said Doreen Perrino, Smithtown Senior Citizens Department Program Director. 

Through a partnership with American Medical Alert Corporation (AMAC), a Connect America Company, the Town of Smithtown offers reasonably priced medical alert services to our senior citizen residents. Residents who wish to enroll, have a choice between two systems; a home-based telephone landline system and a GPS enabled system.

With both systems, the individual wears an easy touch activator button, as a pendant around the neck or on the wrist (home-based system only). When activated, professionally trained emergency response operators are available 24/7 to respond and assist with any situation.

The home-based service is available for a monthly monitoring fee of $18. The GPS enabled system is available for a monthly monitoring fee of $30. Monthly monitoring fees are paid directly to Connect America. If requested, a lockbox can be provided at no cost. There are no installation fees, long-term contracts or cancellation penalties. All equipment must be returned to Connect America upon service termination.  

Eligibility Requirements:

To be eligible for Medical Alert Services, applicants must:

  • Be a resident of the Town of Smithtown

  • Be aged 62 or older

  • Have a landline phone

For further information regarding this and other senior programs, call the Senior Center at 631-360-7616. Eligible residents can schedule a brief in-home assessment through the Smithtown Senior Citizens Department.

by -
0 241
Legislator Stephanie Bontempi greets attendees at the event. Photo from Leg. Bontempi's office

On June 8, at the Huntington Public Library (Station Branch), Legislator Stephanie Bontempi (R – 18th L.D.) joined with Legislator Manuel Esteban (R – 16th L.D.) and the Suffolk County Sheriff’s office to co-host a Senior Medical ID Card event.  Although the event was geared toward seniors, the cards were issued to anyone 18 years of age and older.

Legislator Manuel Esteban poses for a photo at the information table with a Deputy Sheriff and the venue’s librarian. Photo from Leg. Bontempi’s office

“It really is essential to have your most vital medical information on you at all times, especially if and when you are not able to speak for yourself,” said Bontempi.  “Whether it’s an allergy or another serious medical condition, the sooner first responders know about these issues, the better they can assist you; that’s why I got one for myself.”

Those attending the event filled out a form to outline their essential medical information and the best person to contact in case of an emergency.  This information was then transferred to a photo ID card produced and issued right on the spot within minutes.

To learn more about the Senior Medical ID Card program and other offerings of the Suffolk County Sheriff’s office, visit: https://www.suffolkcountysheriffsoffice.com/community-programs.     

by -
0 326
Pictured from left, Brookhaven Town Councilmember Jonathan Kornreich; Dr. Nikhil Palekar; Brad Straub, Executive Vice President at Greystone; Jefferson’s Ferry President and CEO Bob Caulfield; and Brookhaven Town Supervisor Ed Romaine. Photo from Jefferson's Ferry

The Jefferson’s Ferry’s Foundation’s annual gala this spring marked 18 years of generous support for the Foundation. Jefferson’s Ferry residents and their families, supporters and vendors joined Jefferson’s Ferry management, staff and board members for “Springtime in Paris” to salute the singular lifestyle, vibrant community and peace of mind that are the hallmarks of Jefferson’s Ferry. 

The proceeds from the evening will benefit the Foundation’s “Making Memories Fund,” which will provide supplemental programming for residents of Jefferson’s Ferry’s new Memory Care Wing to include exercise classes, massage therapy, day trips, entertainment and more. The programs will be geared to participants’ interests and capabilities rather than their limitations. The Fund will also support continuing education for staff of the Memory Care Wing, which is set to open later this year.

This year Jefferson’s Ferry honored Greystone, which has served as the chief consultant for Jefferson’s Ferry’s ambitious expansion project. To accept the award on behalf of Greystone, Brad Straub, Executive Vice President at Greystone, joined the party from Texas.

“Brad has been an invaluable resource and played a leading role in defining how Jefferson’s Ferry can best develop its physical plant, programs and resources to fulfill the current and future needs and desires of our residents,” said Jefferson’s Ferry President and CEO Bob Caulfield. 

“Brad’s expertise and oversight has enabled us to conceptualize and execute a significant expansion and renovation within a reasonable time frame and with the least disruption to our community.”

This year’s keynote speaker was Dr. Nikhil Palekar, Director of the Stony Brook University Center of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease. Dr. Palekar, an expert in the treatment and research of cognitive and mood disorders in older adults, spoke of promising medical advances in the study of cognitive impairment and mood disorders. For more information visit www.jeffersonsferry.org.

by -
0 2688

1 of 3
Photo from Gurwin
Photo from Gurwin
Photo from Gurwin

Gurwin Healthcare System has announced the availability of 18 newly built studio apartments in its Gurwin Jewish ~ Fay J. Lindner Residences assisted living community. The construction of the new studios marks a new choice option for the 210-luxury apartment community, located on Gurwin’s lush 36-acre Commack campus, and comes in response to market interest for more streamlined residences at a lower price point.

Ranging in size from 241 to 278 sq. ft., the upscale studios feature dual living/sleeping areas, a kitchenette with stainless steel appliances, spacious closets and fully ADA-equipped bathrooms. Large windows welcome natural sunlight and several studios feature courtyard views. Pricing begins at $4950 per month and includes all utilities, as well as housekeeping and maintenance services. Other available services include personal laundry, including linens and towels, and appointment transportation. Included in the monthly fee is full access to the community’s amenities, including chef-prepared meals, scheduled social activities and local outings.

“The addition of studio apartments is an evolution of the Gurwin vision. We are pleased to have an expanded choice of senior living options to offer prospective residents,” said Stuart B. Almer, CEO of Gurwin Healthcare System. “With many already spoken for, our beautiful new studios meet the needs of Long Island seniors who desire a comfortable, smaller footprint residence within a caring, active and vibrant community.”

Gurwin’s Assisted Living community includes a formal dining room, a well-stocked library, tastefully appointed gathering areas, recreation and activity rooms, a synagogue, beauty/barber salon and rooms to host guests and family. Residents also have priority access to all levels of Gurwin’s care, including Gurwin’s rehabilitation and skilled nursing facility and on-site dialysis, home care programs and adult day care. In addition, residents enjoy the community’s manicured gardens, beautifully landscaped walking paths, and myriad outdoor activities including a shuffleboard court, putting green and LifeTrail exercise stations

About Gurwin Jewish ~ Fay J. Lindner Residences

Gurwin Jewish ~ Fay J. Lindner Residences assisted living community, located in Commack, Long Island, is part of the Gurwin Healthcare System, a renowned provider of a full continuum of healthcare and senior living services. In addition to its assisted living community, the System provides skilled nursing care, rehabilitation therapy, advanced care, ventilator and respiratory care, on-site dialysis, memory care, and palliative and hospice care, as well as adult day care programs and home care services. Skilled nursing and rehabilitation services are also available through Gurwin’s affiliate, Island Nursing and Rehab Center, located in Holtsville, Long Island. The campus is also home to Fountaingate Gardens, a newly opened 129-apartment independent living Life Plan Community for seniors age 62 and older.  For more information, visit www.gurwin.org or call 631-715-8500.   Follow Gurwin on Facebook (bit.ly/GurwinAssistedLiving) and on Twitter (@GurwinJewish).

 

by -
0 320
Photo from Whisper Woods

Whisper Woods of Smithtown, a Benchmark assisted living and Mind & Memory Care community, has ranked among the best assisted living with memory care communities in New York and the entire U.S. for the second straight year. In U.S. News & World Report’s second annual Best Senior Living ratings published today, the community was selected following a comprehensive resident and family member survey. Whisper Woods is the only senior living community in the greater Smithtown area to have earned this prestigious award.

Whisper Woods earned “Best” status by achieving the highest possible rating for assisted living. Respondents gave the community high marks in critical areas, such as overall value, management and staff, resident enrichment, dining and food, safety, transportation, maintenance, housekeeping and location.

Forty Benchmark communities throughout the Northeast received a total of 53 U.S. News awards for the second straight year.

“We are honored and humbled that our residents and their families, once again, recognized the hard work, compassion, and dedication of our 6,000-plus associates. It’s their shared purpose of transforming lives through human connection that earned Benchmark these U.S. News & World Report awards and continues to separate Benchmark communities from other senior living companies,” said Tom Grape, founder, chairman and CEO of Benchmark.

Whisper Woods’ care and experiences spans independent assisted living to specialized memory care assisted living for those who would benefit from a safer, engaging environment, chef-prepared meals, supportive living services, transportation and assistance with daily activities, such as getting dressed and medication management. Residents enjoy connecting over programs and amenities offered in many common spaces including a bistro, art gallery, hair salon and spa, fitness center, recreation room and outdoor terrace with wine bar.

Whisper Woods’ award-winning Mind & Memory Care program offers carefully created living environments and unique opportunities for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia to find joy in each new day. Residents are supported by 24/7 care providers who have been hired for heart and educated in memory loss, communication and empathy. Neighborhoods provide the comforts of home and have unique features that help those with memory impairment stay connected to who and what matters most to them. Thoughtful touches, visual cues and purposeful amenities further promote familiarity and wellness.

“Our team is committed to keeping our residents connected to who and what matters most through outstanding care and experiences,” said Desiree Krajnyak-Baker, executive director of Whisper Woods. “Exceeding expectations every day is what we strive for so it’s incredibly exciting to have our dedication recognized by an industry leader like U.S. News.”

For more than 30 years, U.S. News has served the American public as an unbiased arbiter of quality across a variety of important choices. Whether picking a college, selecting a hospital or moving to a nursing home, consumers go to U.S. News to research and make consequential life decisions.

“For the second consecutive year, U.S. News is providing in-depth information to help potential residents and their loved ones find the best place to help meet their needs,” said Sumita Singh, senior vice president and general manager of Healthcare at U.S. News. “Communities that are highly rated excel in making residents feel safe, well cared for and highly satisfied by the services provided.”

For more information about Whisper Woods of Smithtown, click here or go to its U.S. News profile at https://health.usnews.com/best-senior-living/whisper-woods-of-smithtown-644.

by -
0 569
METRO photo

Smithtown’s seniors in need of minor household repairs can contact the Town of Smithtown Senior Citizens Department to take advantage of the Residential Repair Program. In addition to a series of other household assistance services available to senior citizens, the repair program allows individuals over the age of 60 to save money while maintaining independence longer.

“This is an outstanding service for residents, especially for residents living on a retirement or pension. There is no cost for labor, as you only cover the cost of any parts or materials needed for the repair. Our team of trained professionals are thoroughly vetted, friendly and trusted employees who genuinely love helping our senior community. If you are looking to help out a parent, or you are over the age 60 and have a few minor repairs around the house that need to be taken care of, I would highly recommend calling the Senior Center to schedule a service call,” said Town of Smithtown Supervisor Ed Wehrheim.

The Residential Repair Program provides assistance for tasks that do not require the skills of a licensed craftsman. The Town of Smithtown employs a crew of experienced maintenance personnel who can provide a variety of minor home repair services to senior citizens.

Services can include repairs to leaky faucets, running toilets, replacing light fixtures or hard to reach light bulbs, security and home safety features such as lock replacement, replacing smoke/carbon monoxide detectors and installing bathroom grab bars or indoor railings.

Residential Repair Services: 

  1. Plumbing
  • Replacing washers or faucets for kitchen sinks, wash basins and tubs
  • Clearing clogged sinks
  • Repairing toilet tanks
  1. Electrical
  • Repairing or rewiring lamps and frayed cords
  • Replacing light switches, receptacles or fuses where accessible
  • No appliance repairs (with the exception of water hose connections)
  1. Carpentry
  • Installation of grab bars, safety rails, and handrails
  • Minor repairs to doors, floors, house trim, etc.
  • Installation of shelves and curtain rods
  1. Interior Painting – Primer only
  • No cosmetic work
  • Ceilings where water or structural damage has occurred
  • Patching walls and ceilings
  1. Weatherization
  • Caulking and weather stripping of windows and doors
  1. Exterior Services (WEATHER PERMITTING)
  • Minor patching of concrete, walkways and masonry foundations
  • Clean gutters and drains (Single Story Homes ONLY!)
  1. Crime Prevention & Safety
  • Installation of door and window locks
  • Installation of door viewers (peepholes)
  • Installation of smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
  1. Miscellaneous Service
  • Installation or removal of storm windows and screens
  • Repairing of screens

Additional minor repairs must be assessed and receive prior approval from the Senior Center.

Town of Smithtown residents are eligible for the Residential Repair Program if they are homeowners or renters aged 60 and over. There are no labor fees for this program. Clients must either provide or pay for the materials required for each job. Repair requests will be serviced in the order they are received. Jobs requesting the installation of safety equipment will be given first priority. Funding for this program is provided by the New York State Office for the Aging, the Suffolk County Office for the Aging, and the Town of Smithtown.

Tipping is not permitted. Recipients will be given the opportunity to make a voluntary contribution to the program.

HOW TO APPLY: 

Contact the Smithtown Senior Center at 631-360-7616 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.

An assessment of the job may be needed to estimate work and cost of materials. Eligible clients can choose to provide or pay for materials. Checks or credit cards not accepted.

For further information regarding this and other senior programs, contact the Smithtown Senior Citizens Department at (631)360-7616.

Prev1...789...11Next Page 8 of 11
TBR News Media is your local news and entertainment website.
We provide you with the latest breaking news and information for your community.
Contact us: [email protected]

Most Viewed

©