The Gift of Peace and Security p. 2–3
Family Ties p. 4–7
Giving Back p. 8–13
Finding Joy during the Holidays p. 14–15
Brain Games p. 16
Mid-Atlantic Region
Bayleigh Chase—Sherri Brown
Sherri.Brown@actslife.org
Buckingham’s Choice—Robin Fletcher Robin.Fletcher@actslife.org
Cokesbury Village—Mary Beth Delaney MaryBeth.Delaney@actslife.org
Country House—Janine Davis Janine.Davis@actslife.org
Fairhaven—Janine Hume Janine.Hume@actslife.org
Heron Point—Kathy Sanderson KSanderson@actslife.org
Manor House—Tina Taylor TTaylor@actslife.org
The Evergreens—Farryn Harte Farryn.Harte@actslife.org
Located in New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland, there’s an Acts campus near you!
HEART & HOUSE
Heart & House is a publication of the Acts Retirement-Life Communities
For Suggestions And Comments
HeartHouse@actslife.org
Editorial Group
Lori Woodward
Chief Marketing Officer
Beth Carey
Corporate Director of Brand Management & Development
Kimberly Burke
Corporate Director of Sales
Lisa Sileo
Marketing Manager
Jill Quirk
Marketing Manager
Contributors For This Issue
Editorial
Lisa Sileo
Design
Lia Calhoun Graphic Design
Acts Resident Photography
Bren Photography
John Warner Photography
Pace Branding & Marketing Photography
Production
Beth Carey
Acts Mission Statement
Acts is committed to providing security and peace of mind to seniors by being a preeminent provider of retirement-life services, responsive to individual, social, personal, health and spiritual needs in a Christian atmosphere graced with Loving-Kindness, dignity, sensitivity, honesty and respect, without prejudice or preference.
Acts Retirement-Life Communities
Corporate Services Center
420 Delaware Drive
Fort Washington, PA 19034
www.actsretirement.org
THE GIFT OF PEACE AND SECURITY
Moving to an Acts Community is the “best gift you can give your children.”
Marilyn Moskowitz’s initial reaction after hearing that her friend had moved to a continuing care retirement community was, “Oh no, that’s not for me!”
However, her friend was thoroughly enjoying her new life at Edgewater at Boca Pointe, an Acts community across the street.
Marilyn and her husband, Lionel, were facing some health challenges at the time and intrigued by the idea of prearranged health care, financial security for the future, and, ultimately, the greatest gift— peace of mind for their children. They were also pleasantly surprised to discover that they could write off a significant portion of the costs as a tax deduction.
Diane Brown hugs daughter Lauren Sileo after moving to her new home at Buckingham's Choice in Adamstown, MD.
"I knew it was the right thing for us to do, but I never expected it to be like this,” Marilyn said. “In fact, I still poke my husband sometimes and say, ‘Is it real?’”
And the best part—their children couldn’t be happier.
Marilyn Moskowitz with daughter Sharon Kauffman enjoying the beautiful atrium at Edgewater at Boca Pointe in Boca Raton, Florida.
After visiting, Marilyn and Lionel realized it was a wise investment, and, soon after, they made the move. What they hadn’t anticipated was just how much their everyday lives would change for the better!
The Game Changer
“They are living their best lives!," said their daughter, Sharon Kauffman. "They stay busy between chair volleyball and chair yoga, while the guys go out for lunch. There's a book club, countless Mahjong games, Canasta and other card games. They’re just thriving."
The Moskowitzs’ calendar is packed with meaningful engagements—dinner plans, social outings, and appealing activities to make their lives rich and fulfilling. “They have dinner plans every night with different friends on different evenings,” Kauffman said.
Her parents also enjoy outings to the theater, art museums, and local restaurants, all made easier with complimentary transportation services. This gives their children peace of mind, knowing their parents are active, safe and supported.
“I don't have to worry about how they're getting somewhere or how they'll get back,” Sharon said. "They've even gone on overnight trips."
“Mom and Dad are so relaxed now. Knowing they are safe and happy, just makes my heart happy," she added. “Living at an Acts community is the greatest gift that a parent can give to a child, to say, I'm safe, I'm taken care of. I'm where I want to be.”
Unforeseen Blessings
Hundreds of miles away from Boca Raton, Diane Brown’s journey to an Acts community was unexpectedly expedited after the sudden passing of her husband. Diane had visited Buckingham’s Choice in Adamstown, Maryland a few years earlier.
“I was very impressed with the community, thinking it was something for the distant future, and then my husband died," Diane said.
The immediate support and sense of belonging Diane found at her new community became vital as she navigated this challenging and difficult chapter of her life.
“They really helped her through the process," said Diane's daughter, Lauren Sileo. "I was just so excited for her to move here because I knew she would instantly feel the sense of community. The people are incredibly kind, welcoming and generous.”
In just a few short weeks, Diane embraced her new surroundings, participating in various activities.
gift of peace of mind for her children. “They don't have to worry about me,” Diane said. “If I’m ever sick, I can get instantaneous help. If I need a light bulb changed on the ceiling, they do that for us!"
Unwavering Support
Chuck Crowley, a 95-year-old resident of St. Andrews Estates in Boca Raton, Florida, first moved into the Acts community with his wife 15 years ago. They enjoyed life in a spacious three-bedroom apartment, but as time passed, their needs changed. Chuck’s wife required memory care and skilled nursing, both of which she received on the same campus before she passed away. Chuck has since transitioned to assisted living where he continues to thrive.
“I loved that they could stay in the same community even as their heathcare needs evolved,” said their son, Mike. “Dad absolutely loves living here. He’s always telling me about the excellent care he receives, and can’t stop raving about how great the food is.”
“There’s always someone available if he needs anything, and the staff is very loving and accommodating,” Mike added.
“At least eight of our family and friends’ parents have lived at an Acts community,” said Chuck’s daughterin-law Tami Crowley.
Tami had a difficult time finding care for her father when his health quickly declined. “We had toured seven or eight different places for my dad, but none of them ever compared to the experience Mike’s father has at his Acts community.”
One of the things the family valued most was how Chuck could stay close to his wife while she was receiving care in WillowBrooke Court. He spent long visits with her, sharing meals and participating in activities, before returning to his independent apartment each night.
“They really went out of their way to make sure they could be together as much as possible,” Tami said.
In any given Acts community, most adult children of residents share a common sentiment: this is the safest, best place their parents can live (and thrive!) Living in a community they truly love, where all their needs are met—both now and in the future—provides an invaluable gift to them.
Despite not knowing anyone when she first arrived, she quickly made friends. These friendships became a lifeline when Diane underwent a surgery.
“All her neighbors and the Acts team stepped up. They delivered meals and ensured she had everything she needed. They were very supportive.”
For Diane, much like the Moskowitz family, the move to an Acts community offered the lifelong comfort of support and the ultimate
Even in assisted living, Chuck remains active and socially engaged. He enjoys participating in choir, attends Bible study and walks every day.
“The whole package of a CCRC is wonderful, giving us tremendous peace of mind, knowing he’s well taken care of,” Mike said. “The staff truly lives up to their mission of Loving-Kindness. We’ve grown close to the nurses and can always count on them for anything.”
Marilyn and Lionel Moskowitz smiling in the comfort of their Edgewater at Boca Pointe apartment which quickly "felt like home."
Tami and Mike Crowley with father Chuck Crowley, who moved to St. Andrews Estates about 15 years ago.
Susan Dube and her sister Hulda Mahlum enjoy an evening with friends at Westminster Village.
Rita Spina and her daughter Sue Palde enjoy living at Indian River Estates.
Family Ties: Living Together at Acts Retirement-Life Communities
New residents who move into an Acts community quickly realize they’ve just joined one big, happy family: the Acts family.
What they may not realize is just how many Acts residents are related, as in the traditional sense, by family ties. More and more family members are becoming secondgeneration, sometimes even third-generation, Acts residents. Witnessing relatives thriving in an Acts community, it only makes sense for their family to follow in their footsteps and call Acts home.
‘Third Gen’ Moving In
“I’m a third generation Acts resident,” said Karen Howard, a resident of Brittany Pointe Estates in Lansdale, Pennsylvania. “My grandparents moved into one; my parents moved into another, but I did my own research. I choose Acts for me and my own children, to know they’ll never have to worry, and I’ll be taken care of for the rest of my life.”
What’s more, many adult children are moving in earlier, taking advantage of prearranged healthcare at today’s dollars. They’re picking their perfect cottage, villa or apartment, eager to enjoy all the resort-style amenities that Acts offers. In recent years, it’s becoming more common to have two generations living on an Acts campus at the same time.
Making ‘Everyday’ Memories
Family members living at Acts have more opportunities to share in everyday moments. They are grateful for the convenience of having their loved ones close enough to walk over and visit, to share a morning cup of coffee, a card game, or just to check in.
Cecily Craig, who lived in the suburbs of Philadelphia, moved to Rock Hill, South Carolina, to be closer to her 98-year-old mother, Elaine Page, a resident of Park Pointe Village. Now mother and daughter are together under the same roof in separate apartments, just one floor apart.
“It was important to me to be able to spend more quality time with my mother,” Cecily said.
“When I began to focus on my own retirement—in discussions with my financial advisors and my accountant —the idea of securing the future before it was critically necessary to do so was a win-win,” she said. “Moving in now made sense, I didn’t want to wait until it was too late to then have to scramble due to illness or an emergency.”
“I choose Acts for me and my own children, to know they’ll never have to worry, and I’ll be taken care of for the rest of my life.”
Sue Palde, her husband Lou, and Sue’s mother Rita are all residents of Indian River Estates in Vero Beach, Florida.
“We’re all very happy and active at the community,” Sue said. “My husband plays pickleball and loves the woodshop. I enjoy doing artwork, a hobby I haven’t done in a long time!”
Sue’s mother Rita Spina, who was hesitant to move at first, is enjoying life to the fullest. She recently turned 100 years old and still lives independently.
“Mom says over and over again how wonderful her life is,” Sue said.
Dottie Denza decided to move to Lima Estates in Media, Pennsylvania, about two years after taking her parents on a tour of the community.
“This was a big decision for them, and I wanted to make sure it was the right one,” said Dottie, a former nurse who researched continuing care retirement communities and valued the importance of life care.
“My father passed away, but my mother was still here when I moved in. It was reassuring to see the excellent care they received,” she added.
Siblings Together Again
Many more siblings are also moving into Acts communities. Brothers and sisters who haven’t shared a roof since childhood find themselves reunited, reconnecting, and having the times of their lives.
Sisters Susan Dube and Hulda Mahlum enjoy living on the beautiful campus of Westminster Village in Spanish Fort, Alabama. Their father was a resident of the Acts community many years ago, and he often told them, ‘I should have moved in sooner.’”
Susan Dube and her husband Jim took that advice to heart, but wanted to make sure it was the right choice financially.
“Jim and I moved in two years ago,” said Susan Dube. “I even brought my financial advisor with me to visit the community and ask all the pertinent questions. They said, ‘this is a nobrainer’ and even filled out all the paperwork for us!”
Within a few months, her sister Hulda and brother-in-law Dick moved in. The Mahlums never planned to move to a retirement community. They had just built their dream home along the water in Shalimar, Florida.
“The fact that our move-in dates happened to be on the same day, two different Acts communities, the stars aligned,” Elaine said. “We are both extremely happy.”
“I visited many of Acts communities from Pennsylvania to North Carolina and Georgia,” Elaine added. “Each one has a unique atmosphere, and the minute I walked into Tryon Estates, I felt this could be home. I didn’t know anyone and just felt so welcomed.”
Elaine’s sister Grace and her husband live at Brittany Pointe Estates, in Landsdale, very close to Fort Washington where the sisters grew up. As children, Elaine and Grace played with the daughters of Acts’ founders and watched Acts’ first community grow over the past 50 years.
Even if you don’t know a single soul before moving into an Acts community, living at Acts feels like being part of a big, extended family.
“They never, ever wanted to move! They were going to be wheeled out of that gorgeous house, one of them first and the other one after!” said Susan.
“We invited them to our new home at Westminster Village, and they had a blast playing pickleball and chair volleyball with us. They kept coming back to visit,” said Susan. “Just weeks later, they sold their home on Zillow in 24 hours and moved in!”
Families Choosing Different Campuses
Other siblings move into different Acts communities, depending on where they want to live geographically. Elaine Rich lives at Tryon Estates in Columbus, NC, and her sister Grace Karschner lives at Brittany Pointe Estates in Lansdale, Pennsylvania.
Coincidentally, Grace and Elaine moved into their Acts communities hundreds of miles apart, on the same day.
“It all happened so quickly,” said Elaine, a widow of nine years who was looking for a place where she could stay physically and socially active. “The sales office showed me a fabulous apartment with everything I ever wanted. My daughter was here with me, we thought, I need to take it.”
Unbeknownst to her, sister Grace who had been on a waiting list for a three-bedroom apartment at Brittany Pointe Estates, got the call of an opening.
“We’re grateful to live here, and if we ever want to live closer to each other, it would be very easy for one of us to transfer to the other Acts campus,” Grace said.
The Beauty of Being Part of Acts Family
Even if you don’t know a single soul before moving into an Acts community, living at Acts feels like being part of a big, extended family.
Whether you share life experiences with neighbors, participate in the many activities on campus, or simply enjoy each other’s company over a delicious meal, the friendly and loving atmosphere at Acts resonates with everyone, regardless of whether they are related by blood.
“It’s just unbelievable, the friendliness and openness of the people you meet,” said Karen Howard, our third generation Acts resident. “This isn’t a place where you go and get old, this is a place you go to truly live.”
“My father moved in at 75 years old, and died just shy of 97,” she added. “The only reason I truly believe he lived that long was because he was active at his community. He had a support system, friends and another family that helped take care of him.”
This strong sense of community is what makes Acts a place where loving-kindness lives, generation to generation.
Hulda and Dick Mahlum strolling in the courtyard at Westminster Village.
Elaine Page and Cecily Craig sharing their favorite reads in the library at Park Point Village
Susan and Jim Dube sharing a light bite.
THE GIFT OF GIVING BACK
Volunteering is a great way to give back to others in our community. But did you know, volunteering is also powerful tool for promoting health and well-being? Not only for those on the receiving end.
Yes, giving back makes you feel good in the moment, but it also has lasting benefits. Those who volunteer often experience physical, mental, and emotional benefits that contribute to longevity, and a higher quality of life. Our residents can vouch for that!
Across our Acts family, hundreds of residents graciously go out of their way to donate their time, treasure and talents. Resident volunteer groups are well known and very active on each of our campuses.
A little kindness can go a long way. Those who volunteer may experience the many health benefits that comes with it.
Allen Brougham, a resident of Fairhaven and youth baseball umpire, mentors aspiring athletes on and off the field.
STAYING ENGAGED
As we get older, it’s crucial to engage in meaningful, purpose-driven activities.
Social interaction is a key for maintaining cognitive health and volunteering offers countless opportunities to meet new people, form friendships, and engage in stimulating conversations. Volunteering provides an excellent opportunity to do just that.
It’s never too late to make a difference. Donating time, skills, or resources can also create a ripple effect, encouraging others to give as well.
1. Katherine Jeter and Lorraine Decesare rapelled 10 stories down a building to raise money for cancer support in their area.
2. Janice Baldwin Hench and Tom Hench with Governor & Clementine, volunteer with PAWS for People providing pet therapy to numerous organizations.
3. Don Moore and Bob Netherland at Cokesbury Village work on the community's White Elephant committee, selling gently used furniture that residents donate and raising significant funds to support Cokesbury Village's activities annually.
4. The Evergreens’ Stitching Bees work closely with Project Night Night, a charity that clothes homeless children.
5. Buckingham's Choice residents volunteered their time, and art skills, to young campers at the Claggett Center Camp Spirit Song (For grades 4–8 impacted by a family member’s opioid substance abuse).
6. Carlene Starace, of St. Andrews Estates, finds satisfaction and fulfillment in working at her campus’ WonderStore resale boutique.
7. Tom Clark and his wife, Doris, from Tyron Estates, volunteer at their local polling place every election.
8. Nickey Lyday, a resident of St. Andrews Estates, donated more than 425 homemade knitted caps for babies born at Boca Raton Regional Hospital.
9. Residents and Team members join together to end Alzheimer's disease through supporting the first official Alzheimer's Walk in Easton, Maryland.
10. Evie Dugan at Southampton Estates has served as a volunteer at the Warminster Food Bank for over 45 years. 1 2 3
FINDING PEACE DURING THE HOLIDAYS
‘Tis the season!
The holidays, while often filled with joy and celebration, can also be stressful and challenging. Here are some tips to help you navigate them.
EMBRACE FOND MEMORIES AND CREATE NEW TRADITIONS
You’re not alone. The holidays can stir up a sense of loneliness and nostalgia for cherished traditions of the past. It’s important to prioritize your self-care this time of year, and you can start by acknowledging those emotions and sharing your feelings.
“Finding ways to honor and remember those who are missed, such as lighting a candle in their memory or sharing stories with others, can be a comforting way to keep their spirit alive during the holidays,” said Melanie Donathan, Mental Health Clinician in Acts’ Northeast Region.
“It is helpful to get together with someone else who is in a similar situation. By sharing stories of your past, you can focus on those happy memories,” she added.
Sharing your thoughts with others can offer comfort and remind you that you’re not grieving alone. All Acts’ communities have full-time chaplains who are available to
all residents who may be going through a difficult time. There are also grief support groups on campus to provide comradery and additional support.
While it’s natural to hold onto beloved traditions during this time of year, this is an opportunity to create new ones:
• Learn about different cultures and holiday rituals.
• Enjoy a holiday movie marathon or drive through neighborhoods to admire the holiday decorations.
• Engage in an activity that brings you joy or a sense of purpose.
“Think back to what you loved about the holidays as a child,” Melanie said. “Did you bake cookies? Did you play dreidel with your family? Did you drive around to find houses with extravagant lights? Taking part in these activities can help reset your focus to rediscover the joy.”
SHARE THE GIFT OF VOLUNTEERING
Many residents of ActsRetirement Life Communities find joy during the holidays by giving back to others. Acts’ residents organize toy drives for local hospitals, donate canned goods to area food banks, contribute to college scholarships, and more. The large groups of resident
volunteers at Acts are wellknown for their meaningfully contributions, sharing their time and talents to enrich both their communities and surrounding areas.
Volunteering has the power to make a positive impact and tangibly change lives, including your own. It can be an instant mood booster, helping reduce stress and depression.
“Doing things for others creates a sense of pride, which increases self-confidence and releases dopamine into your body, making you feel relaxed and happy,” Melanie said.
Additionally, feeling a sense of purpose and connection to your community leads to lower risks of loneliness and anxiety. (see our previous article!)
SIMPLIFY YOUR TO-DO LIST
To make the holidays more enjoyable, it’s also okay to scale back and focus on what truly matters. Celebrating with those you love does not have to include a large price tag.
Small meaningful gifts are much more valuable than anything that will cause financial stress. Even a handwritten note, read aloud at a family gathering you might not be able to physically attend will make you feel part of the festivities and let your family know that you are thinking of them.
If the thought of holiday decorating and gift wrapping is overwhelming, Acts residents can check that off their “to do” list by getting support from Acts’ Home Services.
“Acts’ dedicated Home Services teams across all regions take immense pride in supporting our residents during the holidays. From holiday shopping and gift wrapping to mailing gifts or addressing cards, we are here to make the season joyful and stress-free,” said Cheryl Clancy, Director of Home Health in the Southeast region. “By letting us handle the details, you can truly relax and enjoy this special time of year.”
You don’t have to do much decorating either! Our beautiful campuses are an extension of your home and, this time of year, Acts communities transform into beautifully decorated spaces, perfect for holiday parties and gatherings. Invite your loved ones to a meal at the many restaurants on campus. Best of all, you don’t have to lift a finger – your Acts community is professionally decorated to create a warm and festive ambiance, and the food is delicious. You can simply enjoy the holiday season without hanging a single ornament or cooking a single meal!
LIVE IN THE MOMENT
Living at any of Acts RetirementLife Communities, there are plenty of opportunities to be actively engaged, and the holidays are a perfect time to enjoy new experiences.
“Each community hosts holiday galas with a special seasonal menu and decadent appetizers served in the lobby,” said Wendy Bushong, Life Engagement
Coordinator at Indian River Estates in Vero Beach, Florida. “We decorate with trees and light menorahs, bring carolers to the community, and residents enjoy cookie exchanges and gift swaps; it’s a very festive, joyful time of the year.”
“The holidays at Acts are so fabulous because our residents are truly involved. There’s live music and lots of laughter on campus” said Dawn Beall, Life Engagement Director at Buckingham’s Choice, in Adamstown, Maryland. “You’ll see how residents are engaged and happy. They completely light up.”
BUT, MAKE TIME FOR YOU!
It’s easy to get swept up in the holiday spirit and want to do everything on the social calendar, especially when you’re new to the community and want to experience the many opportunities available.
A little self-care can go a long way during this busy time of the year. This includes getting enough rest, eating well and staying active.
Donathan suggests making time for relaxation and activities that bring you joy, whether it’s reading a good book, taking a leisurely walk, or practicing mindfulness. “Don’t hesitate to take breaks when needed and allow yourself the grace to say no to events or tasks that feel too taxing,” she added.
Lima Estates resident Gloria Colabelli enjoys having so many options to join in the festivities at her Acts community but knows when to make time for herself.
“With so many holiday happenings at our community, day trips and activities - it could get exhausting,” Gloria said. “I make a point to spend quiet downtime in my apartment some evenings.”
Above all, rediscover the joy by remembering “the reason for the season” while enjoying the company of others, reflecting on cherished memories and creating new ones. Happy Holidays!
Brain Games
A TASTE OF ACTS
Tuscan Vegetable Soup
1. In a small bowl, mash half of the beans with a masher or the back of a spoon and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large soup pot over medium high heat. Add the onions, carrots, celery, zucchini, garlic, sage, thyme, salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender. About 5 minutes.
3. Add broth, tomatoes with juice and bring to a boil. Add the mashed and whole beans, spinach, and cook until the spinach is wilted. About 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Garnish each portion with shredded parmesan cheese.
Makes Eight 8 oz. Portions
INGREDIENTS
15 oz. Cannellini beans
½ tsp. Black Pepper
½ tsp. Kosher Salt
2 tsp. Chopped Fresh Sage
1 tbsp. Chopped Fresh Thyme
3 Minced Garlic Cloves
½ cup Diced Celery
½ cup Diced Carrots
1 cup Diced Onions
1 tbsp. Olive Oil
2 ½ cups Diced Zucchini
2 cups Diced Baby Spinach
14 oz. Diced Canned Tomatoes
32 fluid oz. Low Sodium Chicken Broth
⅓ cup Shredded Parmesan Cheese
HAPPILY
Shing Mei Garden goddess
