April is National Healthcare Decisions Month, a time dedicated to bringing awareness to the importance of advance care planning. Advance care planning is like planning a road trip to an unfamiliar destination. People approach mapping their route in different ways, but your trip can be made more comfortable by planning ahead. An advance directive is a map detailing where you want your health care “to go,” in the event you are unable to voice your own wishes.
Do you have a written plan stating what kind of health care treatments you would or would not want if you could not speak for yourself?
Death comes in its own way, in its own time. None of us can predict when our final day will arrive. Advance directives are not only for the elderly; in fact, anyone 18 years and older should complete an advance directive. By completing an advanced directive, people
and their families are able to have tough conversations well before the directive is needed.
It is a written statement of your wishes, preferences, goals and values regarding end-of-life health care decisions. It is only used if you are seriously ill and unable to speak for yourself. There are two components to the directive.
• Naming of a medical (health care) power of attorney
• Living will
A surrogate or health care agent, also referred to as a health care proxy, is a health care advocate for a person if he or she is unable to make decisions for him or herself.
When choosing a surrogate or health care agent you should consider someone who:
• Knows you well
• Will remain calm in a crisis
• Is not afraid to ask questions and advocate for you to your medical team
• Can reassure and communicate with your loved ones
• Understands how you would make the decisions if you were not able to
WHAT IS A LIVING WILL?
A living will is a portion of documentation where a person’s explanation of his or her wishes for endof-life care can be incorporated. Living wills can be extensive, or quite simple, and should include an explanation of the individual’s values, wishes, preferences and goals for end-of-life care. There should be a description of what, if any, life-sustaining treatment you would want, including artificial nutrition and hydration (feeding
tube), cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), do-not-resuscitate order (DNR), palliative care and hospice care.
WHEN THE DOCUMENTATION IS COMPLETE, WHAT SHOULD I DO WITH IT?
You must include your signature on all documentation, and your signature must be either notarized or witnessed. In North Dakota, either option is sufficient to legalize the document. The “Five Wishes” document is recognized in many states and does not require notarization, but your signature must be accompanied by two witness signatures. You should retain the original version of the completed and signed documentation in a safe, accessible location within your home. Copies should be made for each of your health care decision makers and your health care institution (for their electronic medical record). It is not recommended to keep the only version of the document in a safety deposit box at the bank. This
information should be readily available for review when the need arises.
If any of the following situations occur, your document should be updated:
• When there is a divorce
• When a family-related death has occurred
• When chronically ill, or there is a change in your health status
• During every decade of life
• If you receive a new, life-limiting diagnosis
IF I HAVE A POWER OF ATTORNEY, DO I NEED AN ADVANCE DIRECTIVE?
Yes, the power of attorney (POA), or conservator, is normally associated with someone who takes care of financial matters for an incapacitated person. The advance directive for health care only covers health care decision making.
A physician order for life-sustaining treatment (POLST) is intended to be completed alongside a patient’s physician
to guide the actions of emergency medical personnel (e.g., whether or not to perform CPR). It is a medical order that gives patients more control in their end-of-life care. A POLST must be signed by a doctor or other medical professional after having a conversation about end-of-life care with the patient. It is intended for people who have a serious illness—at any age—and is usually completed when it is anticipated the patient has a year or less to live.
WHERE DO I FIND INFORMATION ON ADVANCED CARE PLANNING OR AN ADVANCE DIRECTIVE FORM?
CaringInfo: www.caringinfo.org
Aging with Dignity “Five Wishes” Advance Directive Guide: www. fivewishes.org
Honoring Choices Minnesota: www. honoringchoices.org/resources
National Health Care Decision Day website: www.nhdd.org
Article provided by Hospice of the Red River Valley.
The thought of selling and leaving you first house, family house, and/or the house with all the memories, can be very difficult. However, “Home is where the heart is”, which means home is where you make your home.
The dwelling you call your home is just a dwelling. The people that shared it with you and the memories you created together made it your home, but in most cases those people have moved and now it is just you or you and your spouse. It may be time to think about the quality of your life and reconsider what makes the home you live in the home you need now.
Some challenges people face as they get older in their home:
– Difficulty finding handymen, lawn care, and snow removal help.
• Unemployment is at an all-time low. Workers are difficult to find and expensive if you do. Handyman cost $50 to $100 per hour and lawn care and snow removal up to $100 per hour.
– Safety and Security at your home.
• Safety and security become more
important as you age. Does your house have security camaras, alarm systems, notifications that are sent in certain scenarios to emergency agencies if you need their help.
– House layout and amenities
• Odds are you moved into your house at a different stage of your life and the house may not have the needed features you need as you grow older. Climbing stairs becomes more difficult as you age. You may need a walker or electric wheelchair, either temporarily or permanently at some point but your hallways are narrow.
– Isolationism
• Everyone says they are going to visit, but your family is busy raising their families, so they only visit once or twice a year. The rest of the time it is you or you and your spouse. People live longer and healthier with social interaction. When you are bound to your house getting out and socializing can be difficult,
especially in the winter months.
Can you relate? If you can, maybe it is time to consider a change and Active Senior Living Communities may be just what you need. Active Senior Living Communities provide the following advantages.
– Low to no maintenance
• Don’t need to find handymen, lawn care, or snow removal workers. No furnace or air conditioning maintenance and no replacing roofs or fixing damage from storms. The property management company will do all of this.
– Safety and Security
• Onsite management, secure building, common area and parking lot video surveillance, direct notifications to local emergency service personnel.
– Amenities
• Work out rooms, activity rooms, libraries, dining facilities, and more.
– Regular Social Activities
• Group exercise classes, bingo, live music, coffee club, walking club,
gardening, happy hour, bingo, card groups, casino runs, concert outings, baseball games, and more.
– Built for seniors as they age.
• Wide hallways, indoor parking, indoor mail service, and more.
– Ride sharing and mobility services.
• Ride share services managed for you and/or transportation provided by the facility for shopping, to the airport, to lunch, and more.
Don’t spend the rest of your life by yourself maintaining a house that you only use a fraction of. Instead, spend your time creating new memories surrounded by your peers in an environment made for you and the stage of life you are in.
Don’t just live, “Liveyour
bestlife”.
⊲ WHAT ARE ADVANCE DIRECTIVES?
Advance directives are documents that spell out your wishes for healthcare or financial decision-making in the event you are no longer able to voice your choices. On an advance directive, you can also list a power of attorney – a person to make decisions on your behalf if you were no longer able to make them yourself.
⊲ WHY SHOULD SOMEONE HAVE ONE?
You should consider completing an advance directive (or reviewing your current advance directive) to ensure your medical and financial choices will be carried out in the event you were not able to carry them out yourself. Formulating an advance directive prompts you to answer difficult, but critical questions regarding your wishes for yourself. Having an advance directive in place can allow more peaceof-mind for your loved ones as you have already laid out what you do – or do not – wish to receive in alignment with your medical or financial choices.
⊲ WHO SHOULD HAVE ONE?
Anyone over the age of 18 can have an advance directive. The conversations about what decisions you would want for your care can be difficult, but unexpected situations can happen to anybody at any age. It is important to start these conversations early, even if you do not have any significant health issues.
⊲ DOES IT REQUIRE AN ATTORNEY? (PROCESS)
Typically an attorney is not needed for this process. In both ND and MN, a notary public or two witnesses are required to make an advance directive legal. You can find forms online specific to the state in which you reside. You can also inquire about advance care planning at a checkup with your primary care provider as many clinics offer assistance with filling these out.
⊲ WHAT SHOULD THE DOCUMENT DESCRIBE?
A healthcare advance directive often allows you to name a Power of Attorney for healthcare decisions (sometimes known as a “Healthcare Agent”), which is who you would want to make healthcare
decisions on your behalf in the event you were not able to. Some healthcare directives will allow you to list an “Alternate” Power of Attorney – meaning if the person you initially named as Power of Attorney is unable or unwilling to assist with decision-making, the alternate Power of Attorney would be able to assist in making those decisions.
Many of the advance directive forms you can get from your provider’s office or online have different choices about specific medical cares (i.e. CPR, artificial nutrition, life-prolonging treatments, organ donation, etc.) and you select the options that align with your choices.
⊲ WHAT DO YOU DO WITH IT WHEN IT’S DONE?
Once your advance directive is signed and notarized or witnessed, you should ensure you have discussed your wishes with your power of attorney and provide copies of the advance directive to your power of attorney and your primary care provider as well as other healthcare facilities (assisted living, long-term care facility).
You should also keep a copy for yourself and review on a regular basis – after major life events – to ensure what you have indicated in the advance directive still aligns with your choices. If the advance directive is no longer reflective of your wishes, you can create an updated version and have the new advance directive notarized or witnessed. Ensure your power of attorney and healthcare providers have the most updated version of your advance directive.
• Established in the 1960s
• Landmark of downtown
• Completely remodeled
• Beautiful upgrades
• Great views of the city
• Lots of activities & amenities
BeeHive Homes of Moorhead
1001 Caddy Ave. Moorhead, MN 56560 218-512-3033
beehivehomes.com/location/moorhead
At BeeHive Homes, we strive to provide an enriching and supervised environment in a home-like setting for all who chooseto call BeeHive ‘home’. Now Open . . . Memory Care! Excellent Staff to Resident Ratio, Home Cooked Meals, Private room with Bath, Daily Activities Program, and much more! BeeHive...the Next Best Place to Home! Assisted Living at it’s Finest! Call Now for More Information or to Reserve a Room!
Bethany Gables
4255 30th Ave S, Fargo ND • 701-478-8900
Secure living for active seniors and part of Bethany Retirement Living. 1 & 2 bedroom apartments available; numerous amenities. An affordable rent structure makes Bethany Gables the perfect retirement living option. www.bethanynd.org
Bethany Towers II
201 University Dr S, Fargo ND 58103 701-239-3439
Eventide Fargo
3225 51st St S, Fargo, ND 58104 701-478-1800 • www.eventide.org
One, two and three bedroom apartments. Professional staff, housekeeping, transportation, fine dining options, personal care services, plus a wide variety of activities and wellness programs. Café, fitness center, Chapel and more! Campus includes skilled nursing and transitional care.
Eventide Sheyenne Crossings
225 13th Ave W, West Fargo, ND 58078 701-478-6002 • www.eventide.org
Studio, one and two bedroom apartments. Professional staff, housekeeping, transportation, fine dining options, personal care services, plus an array of activity and wellness programs. Cafe, fitness center, Chapel and more. Campus includes skilled nursing and transitional care.
Touchmark At Harwood Groves
1200 Harwood Drive S, Fargo, ND 701-552-9559
With maintenance-free living, there’s more time for the activities you love. We offer a continuum of services to fit your needs now and in the future. TouchmarkFargo.com
Good Samaritan Society-Fargo
4502 37th Ave. S. Fargo 701-282-2651 or www.good-sam.com
• Great location in the SW corner of the city
• Close to shopping & amenities
• Private 1 & 2 bedroom apartments
• Care Plans fit to needs
• 24-hour staffing
• Quality living at an affordable price
• Christian environment
Moorhead Manor
1710 13th Ave N, Moorhead, MN 218-236-6286 • Susan Christianson, Director mhdmanor@outlook.com
27 efficiency apartments in a quiet residential neighborhood, home-cooked meals and snacks daily. All utilities paid. Assisted living services available for those that need them. 24 hour awake staff. Public assistance programs accepted under EW, CADI & GRH.
Riverview Place
CHILivingCommunities.org/Riverview
5300 12th St S, Fargo, ND • 701-237-4700
Come visit us today and learn how our assisted living options can meet your needs. Crosshaven, our unique neighborhood, is the perfect alternative for maintaining your independence but still having the daily assistance you may require. We also provide assisted living services for those who still want to maintain their apartments in our Independent Living. Call today to set up a tour at 701-237-4700. Hello humankindness.
1125 & 1204 Oakview Drive, Dilworth MN 218-477-7254
Serenity is a family owned and operated facility nestled in a residential neighborhood for over 18 years. We offer assisted living and memory care services. Serenity also as an onsite preschool and children integrate with our Grand Friends daily. Check out our Facebook page for a peek in the daily life of our ladies and gentlemen.
The Linden at Eventide
1500 7th St S, Moorhead, MN 56560 218-233-7508 • www.eventide.org
1 & 2 bedroom apartments. Professional, caring staff, weekly housekeeping, transportation, fine dining options and an array of activities and social events. Personal care services to support independence. Wellness center, Chapel, Cafe, media center and more.
Siena Court
711 14th Ave N, Wahpeton, ND 58075
701-642-6667 • www.blcwahpeton.org
Siena Court provides the comfort to live independently or with a little help. Spacious 1 and 2 bedroom apartments with a walkout patio area and full kitchen with appliances are available to help support your independence. Secured entrance after hours along with 24 hour personal emergency call system are there to give you the security to know that help is just a step away. Scheduled medical transportation is available for in and out of town appointments. Noon meal with salad bar and dessert are included. Additional services available upon request.
Bethany Towers I & II
201 University Dr S, Fargo, ND 58103
701-239-3439 • www.bethanynd.org
Bethany Basic Care offers private rooms, kitchenettes and lounges on each floor, three meals and snacks daily, weekly housekeeping and linen service, personal care and nursing services plus activities, social events, therapy services and amenities. Medical Assistance accepted. Equal Housing Opportunity.
Good Samaritan Society-Fargo
4502 37th Ave. S. Fargo
701-282-2651 or www.good-sam.com
• Great location in the SW corner of the city
• Close to shopping & amenities
• Private 1 & 2 bedroom apartments
• Care Plans fit to needs
• 24-hour staffing
• Quality living at an affordable price
• Christian environment
Siena Court
711 14th Ave N, Wahpeton, ND 58075
701-642-6667 • www.blcwahpeton.org
Siena Court provides the comfort and privacy of home, that promotes personal choice in a safe, caring environment. Spacious 1 bedroom apartments with kitchenettes as well as 3 meals a day with salad bar are offered in our community dining area. Secured entrance after hours along with certified staff available 24 hours/day, promotes social well-being by providing spiritual services and other entertainment activities. Scheduled medical transportation is available for in and out of town appointments.
Boulger Funeral Home & Celebration of Life Center
123 South 10th Street, Fargo, ND 58103
701-237-6441 or 800-393-6441
www.boulgerfuneralhome.com
Planning ahead gives you the opportunity to prepare for future events of importance to you and those we love. For more information on our “Celebration of Life Center,” Special Veterans Packages, our Grief Support Meetings and to receive your FREE pre-planning guide, please contact Boulger Funeral Home. Boulger Funeral Home is the first in the F-M area to offer a 360° Virtual Tour on our new and expanded website- take the tour today!
Hanson-Runsvold Funeral Home
215 7th St S, Fargo, ND
701-232-3222 or toll-free 800-598-3223
www.hansonrunsvold.com
Funeral Preplanning & Prefunding by appointment. Our helpful preplanning guide and virtual tour are available on our website. We offer a full range of services, including personalized contemporary/traditional services for all faiths, video tributes, Reception Hall, arrangements made worldwide, cremation options & memorial services.
West Funeral Home & Life Tribute Center
321 Sheyenne St, West Fargo 701-282-6699
31 6th Ave N, Casselton 701-347-4422
Our mission at West Funeral Home is to care for the grieving family with the utmost of compassion and professionalism while caring for loved ones with dignity and grace. We will forever be grateful for the trust that you have placed in us - please know that we will work diligently to meet your every need. It is our sincere desire to exceed your expectations and provide you the very best value possible. Four Generations - Since 1916. Our facilities are the newest and most spacious in the Red River Valley. If you are considering cremation, please know that your loved one will never leave our care as we are the only area funeral home with a crematory.
MN
218-643-2275 • Fax: 218-643-2274
CHIHealthatHome.info
Provides Medicare-certified home health services to clients in MN and ND. Includes skilled nursing, aide, social services, as well as physical, occupational and speech therapies. We’re here to help you stay safe at home!
Home Health
Valley City, ND
855-860-3464 • Fax: 701-845-6552
CHIHealthatHome.info
Provides Medicare-certified home health services to clients in Carrington, Lisbon, Harvey, Oakes, Valley City and surrounding communities. Includes skilled nursing, aide, social services, as well as physical, occupational and speech therapies. We’re here to help you stay safe at home!
1701 38th St. S, Ste. 101, Fargo, ND 58103 (800) 237-4629 • www.hrrv.org
Hospice of the Red River Valley is a nonprofit organization serving more than 50 counties in North Dakota and Minnesota. Hospice care is provided by a team of experts who deliver comfort care to alleviate pain and suffering and enhance quality of life for people with life-limiting illnesses.
www.dakotahomecare.com 877-691-0015 Services in Fargo/West Fargo, Bismarck/Mandan, and Surrounding Areas. At Dakota Home Care, we focus on celebrating and honoring the lives of those we are privileged to serve to help them age safely at home. We offer services to meet a wide range of individual needs. We provide private skilled nursing as well as non-medical services including Disease Management and Care, Medication Management, Wound and Post Surgical Care, Companionship, Meal prep, Personal care, Companionship, light housekeeping and laundry, transportation to appts, errands, specialized memory care, assisted/independent living support services, and more. Dakota Home Care is licensed by the North Dakota State Health Department. Proudly serving Veterans! Let Dakota Home Care help you keep home an option for a lifetime.
1701 38th St. S, Ste. 101, Fargo, ND 58103 (800) 929-8891 • CareThatComesToYou.org
Primary care and palliative care in the comfort of your home via in-person visits and telehealth for people who have difficulty leaving their homes for clinic appointments. Our in-home medical care means experts come to you and no more going back and forth to the clinic or arranging for transportation for routine check-ups and other needs.
701-850-2000
www.GriswoldHomeCare.com/Fargo Services provided - Fargo/Moorhead, Detroit Lakes, and Surrounding Areas. Griswold Home Care is a locally owned and state licensed Home Care provider in both Minnesota and North Dakota. We provide Personal Care, Homemaking, Meal Preparation, Companionship, Transportation along with Skilled Services such as medication administration, wound care and much more. Whether your home is where you raised your family, an Assisted Living, or Memory Care Facility we come to you. From as little as a couple hours all the way to full 24/7 care. Proudly serving Veterans through the VACCN Program, accepting LTC Insurance and Medicaid. Now licensed Certified Brain Injury Specialists on staff. “We give people the help they need to live in the place they love.” Now hiring PT Caregivers!
4141 31st Ave S, Ste 102 • Fargo, ND 701-478-1010 • www.homeinstead.com/519 Home Instead provides companionship, personal care, meal preparation, housekeeping, transportation, and medication reminders to seniors who wish to stay in their homes as long as possible. We provide services to seniors in 10 counties in ND (Cass & Richland) and MN (Clay, Norman, Mahnomen, Becker, Hubbard, Otter Tail, Douglas & Wilkin).
Our CAREGivers are dedicated to providing the highest quality of service to the seniors they care for. In addition to the initial training received, including providing care for those with Alzheimer’s, they receive ongoing training in many other aspects of caregiving. They are the heart of our company and we are extremely proud of them.
Home Instead is now proudly serving local Veterans through the VACCN Program.
1307 7th St N, Wahpeton, ND 58075 701-642-6667 • www.blcwahpeton.org
Benedictine Home Health offers skilled nursing care, therapy and personal services that you receive in your home. We are Medicaid certified and accept many insurances along with private pay options. Our skilled nursing staff, physical, occupational, and speech therapists currently provide services for Minnesota and North Dakota. The goal of home health is to keep you safe and healthy in your own home.
Breckenridge, MN
218-643-2275 • Fax: 218-643-2274
CHIHealthatHome.info
Provides Medicare-certified home health services to clients in MN and ND. Includes skilled nursing, aide, social services, as well as physical, occupational and speech therapies. We’re here to help you stay safe at home!
Home
Valley City, ND
855-860-3464 • Fax: 701-845-6552
CHIHealthatHome.info
Provides Medicare-certified home health services to clients in Carrington, Lisbon, Harvey, Oakes, Valley City and surrounding communities. Includes skilled nursing, aide, social services, as well as physical, occupational and speech therapies. We’re here to help you stay safe at home!
3362 35th Avenue South, Fargo, ND 58104 • 701-364-3010
Skilled nursing, Physical, Occupational and Speech therapies, Medical Social Worker, Home Health Aides, Remote Home Tele-Monitoring. Free evaluation visit. Joint Commission Accredited. Medicare Certified. Serving Fargo-Moorhead and surrounding communities.
3361 45th Street South, Suite 100 Fargo, ND (701) 356-3803 • www.ethoscare.org
Ethos is a non-profit, Christian-based organization committed to providing quality home health care to individuals in the areas surrounding Fargo-Moorhead, Grand Forks and Detroit Lakes. Our home health care team provides skilled nursing, physical, occupational and speech therapy, home health aide services, in-home technology, and more. We work to understand the goals of each individual we serve so we can provide individualized care to meet your unique needs.
100 4th St S, Fargo, ND • 701-243-4900
Skilled Nursing, Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapies. Medical Social Worker, Home Health Aides, and Remote Home Telemonitoring. Medicare certified. Serving Fargo-Moorhead, Mahnomen, Pelican Rapids, Wheaton, Lisbon and Mayville and surrounding communities.
Breckenridge, MN
218-643-2275
• Fax: 218-643-2274
CHIHealthatHome.info
Provides Medicare-certified hospice services to clients in MN and ND. Includes skilled nursing, aide, social services, spiritual care and bereavement. We focus on quality of life, symptom control, client and family education and support.
Valley City, ND
855-860-3464 • Fax:701-845-6552
CHIHealthatHome.info
Provides Medicare-certified hospice services to clients in Carrington, Harvey, Lisbon, Oakes, Valley City and surrounding communities. Includes skilled nursing, aide, social services, spiritual care and bereavement. We focus on quality of life, symptom control, client and family education and support.
3361 45th Street South, Suite 100 Fargo, ND (701) 356-3803 • www.ethoscare.org
Ethos Hospice is a non-profit, Christianbased organization committed to caring for patients and their families with physical, emotional and spiritual care. We serve individuals wherever they may be in the areas surrounding our offices in Fargo-Moorhead, Grand Forks and Detroit Lakes. Our care is shaped to meet the needs of each individual and their loved ones, and can include nursing, home health aide services, social work, spiritual care, music and massage therapy, and more.
Hospice of the Red River Valley
1701 38th St. S, Ste. 101, Fargo, ND 58103 (800) 237-4629 • www.hrrv.org
Hospice of the Red River Valley is a nonprofit organization serving more than 50 counties in North Dakota and Minnesota. Hospice care is provided by a team of experts who deliver comfort care to alleviate pain and suffering and enhance quality of life for people with life-limiting illnesses.
Sanford Fargo Hospice
820 4th St N, Fargo, ND • 701-234-7550 Sanford Fargo Hospice provides care in your home, a nursing home and assisted living facilities in the Fargo Moorhead and surrounding area. We offer care that focuses on your dignity and well- being. Our hospice team includes doctors, nurses, social workers, chaplains, CNA’s and volunteers. Sanford Hospice, Caring for the mind, body, and spirit at end of life.
Sanford Hospice House
801 N Broadway, Fargo, ND • 701-234-5264
As the first hospice house in North Dakota, and the only hospice house in the community, the Sanford Fargo Hospice House, provides patients’ the comfort they need through their end-of-life journey. Our home-like facility features private patient rooms, family sleeping spaces, a private consult room and a family dining area. At the Sanford Fargo Hospice House, you’ll partner with physicians, nurses and the rest of the care team who will be with you every step of the way.
Appletree Court
601 Oak Street, Breckenridge, MN 218-643-0407
20 Unit one-bedroom apartment complex for those over 62. Rent is based on income. Off street parking, secure building, spacious community room, coin operated laundry in a quiet residential neighborhood. A beautiful view of the Red River is breathtaking.
Carriage House
55+ Independent Senior Apartments
3412 Village Green Blvd, Moorhead, MN 218-475-8885
www.thiestalle.com/carriagehouse
Creating community one resident at a time! If you’re fifty-five or older, it’s time to choose the carefree, maintenance-free lifestyle of retirement living at Carriage House. Our friendly, hospitable community includes attached parking, elevator, fitness room, community room, library, greenhouse, beauty/barber, scheduled activities and so much more. You’ll quickly grow accustomed to the peace and quiet. Visit us at our location near the Village Green Golf Course. 1 and 2 bedrooms. Call today for a personal tour! Equal Housing Opportunity.
Charleston Townhomes
122 14th Ave E, West Fargo, ND 58078 701-356-0891 • www.metroplains.com
Spacious 2 bedroom Townhomes – all on one level. Homes come with attached garages, laundry hookups, gas forced heat with central air, scheduled activities in the community rooms, and everything paid except electricity. We also take care of your yard!
Collective
2651 Whispering Creek Cir, Fargo, ND 701-356-6688 • www.liveatcollective.com
Independent Senior Living in Fargo and Moorhead at our Whispering Creek and Crossings at Waters Edge Properties, with a brand-new property in South Fargo! Call for a tour of our community!
Cooperative Living CenterWest Fargo
1321 14th Ave E, West Fargo
701-293-7484
A Friendly 55+ Community
• Active Community
• Community Room & Special Events
• Noon Meal M-F
• Secure Building
• Attached Parking
• Walk In Showers Available Call today to schedule a tour!
Dakota Commons
3865 4th St E, West Fargo, ND (40th Ave & 4th St E)
701-364-2620 • www.metroplains.com
Large 2 bdrm apartments with elevator, patios/balconies, community room, library, and theatre with surround sound. Close to Osgood golf course.
Dakota Estates
440 Wiley Ave, Lidgerwood, ND 58053
701-538-4456
Good Living…Good Times! Affordable retirement living for those 55 and older nestled in a rural setting, just a short drive from Wahpeton or Fargo! Three meals daily, cable, electricity, laundry, housekeeping and personal care services included! Newly renovated apartments! Beauty/barber shop and chapel on site. Scheduled activities and 24 hour staff. Join our carefree, maintenancefree community. Call for details today!
Eventide Fargo
3225 51st St S, Fargo ND 58104
701-478-1800 • www.eventide.org
One, two and three bedroom apartments. Professional staff, housekeeping, transportation, fine dining options, personal care services, plus a wide variety of activities and wellness programs. Café, fitness center, Chapel and more! Campus includes skilled nursing and transitional care.
Eventide Living Center
(Income qualified)
1333 7th St S, Moorhead, MN 56560 218-233-7508 • www.eventide.org
Quality, affordable retirement living for those over 62. Rent based on income. Off street parking, secure building, emergency call system, spacious community room and access to wellness center.
Eventide Sheyenne Crossings
225 13th Ave W, West Fargo, ND 58078
701-478-6002 • www.eventide.org
Studio, one and two bedroom apartments. Professional staff, housekeeping, transportation, fine dining options, personal care services, plus an array of activity and wellness programs. Cafe, fitness center, Chapel and more. Campus includes skilled nursing and transitional care.
Fieldstone Village
Senior Apartments
4574 44th Ave S, Fargo ND • 701-235-4138 Senior apartments, 55 & older. Features include: Garages, Guest Suite, Community Room, Fitness Center, On-Site Management. 1 Bdrms $585, 2 Bdrms $685
Grace Pointe
2890 Saffron Dr S, Fargo ND • 701-551-0805 Grace Pointe is an upscale, independent living community for those aged 55 and older. Grace Pointe offers maintenance-free, open, convenient 1 & 2 bedroom apartments with access to the many amenities at Bethany on 42nd. www.gracepointend.org
Harper Heights
121 1st Avenue W, West Fargo, ND 58078 701-356-0891
• www.metroplains.com
1 & 2 bedroom apartments with heated indoor parking, elevator, exercise room, modern media room, laundry in unit, scheduled activities in the community rooms, and everything paid except electricity.
Heritage Commons
1315 3rd St E, West Fargo, ND 58078 701-356-0891
• www.metroplains.com
Spacious 2 bedroom Townhomes –all on one level. Homes come with attached garages, laundry hookups, scheduled activities in the community spaces, and everything paid except electricity. We also take care of your yard!
Heritage Square
1315 3rd St E #131, West Fargo, ND 58078 701-356-0891
• www.metroplains.com
One level 1 & 2 bedroom apartments, laundry hookups, large layouts with updated flooring, everything paid except electricity. We have a community library, sun/game room, garden and scheduled activities in our busy community room/kitchen.
Homefield Apartments
4225 28th Ave S, Fargo, ND 701-532-1485
• www.metroplains.com
Located right off of 42nd Street next to beautiful Anderson Park in South Fargo. Homefield allows you to live independently without the hassle of snow removal, lawn care, or home maintenance. Live care free and enjoy the best years of your life in the peaceful community of Homefield. In-home washer/dryer, dishwasher, exercise room, community room, detached garage and so much more.
River Square
1251 54th Ave S. Fargo, ND 58104 701-364-2620 • www.metroplains.com
South Fargo’s Best Kept Secret! 55+ Independent Living. 1 & 2 bedroom units, all on one level. Heat paid with laundry hookups. Attached garages available. Community/game room, library, sun rooms and garden spaces available in courtyard.
Milton Earl Apartments
708 4th Ave N, Fargo, ND 58102
701-551-3113 • www.metroplains.com
Discover comfort and convenience at Milton Earl Senior Living Apartments, Fargo’s newest independent senior living community (62+). Choose from thoughtfully designed 1 & 2-bedroom residences, each equipped with a heated parking garage, in-home washer/dryer, rooftop patio, elevator, salon, fitness center, craft room, community space, dishwasher, and controlled access entry. Elevate your lifestyle with spacious living options and a range of amenities.
Preserve Townhomes
3170 7th St E, West Fargo, ND 58078
701-364-2620 • www.metroplains.com
Affordable “55” & better, independent senior living. 2 bedroom townhomes with modern layouts all on one level! Homes come with attached garages & laundry hookups. We pay for heat and take care of the yard! Plus, scheduled activities in our busy community room/kitchen. 1 block west of Veterans Blvd along 32nd Ave S.
Riverview Place
CHILivingCommunities.org/Riverview
5300 12th St. S, Fargo • 701-237-4700
Come visit us today and learn how our independent living options can meet your needs. Enjoy a warm, family atmosphere with affordable pricing, complimentary breakfast, utilities, cable, 24 hour emergency pendant system, warm water pool, Catholic Mass six days a week and one Protestant service per week. Call today to set up a tour at 701-237-4700. Hello humankindness.
Sanders Flats
218-291-2230 • www.eventide.org
Sanders Flats is a NEW active adult community offering 1,2 and 3 bedroom apartments with modern amenities such as a pub, golf simulator, self-serve bistro, theatre and underground parking.
The Linden at Eventide
1500 7th St S, Moorhead, MN 56560
218-233-7508 • www.eventide.org
1 & 2 bedroom apartments. Professional, caring staff, weekly housekeeping, transportation, fine dining options and an array of activities and social events. Personal care services to support independence. Wellness center, Chapel, Cafe, media center and more.
Touchmark At Harwood Groves
1200 Harwood Drive S, Fargo, ND 701-552-9559
With maintenance-free living, there’s more time for the activities you love. We offer a continuum of services to fit your needs now and in the future. TouchmarkFargo.com
BeeHive Homes of Moorhead
1001 Caddy Ave. Moorhead, MN 56560 218-512-3033
beehivehomes.com/location/moorhead
At BeeHive Homes, we strive to provide an enriching and supervised environment in a home-like setting for all who chooseto call BeeHive ‘home’. Now Open . . . Memory Care! Excellent Staff to Resident Ratio, Home Cooked Meals, Private room with Bath, Daily Activities Program, and much more! BeeHive...the Next Best Place to Home! Assisted Living at it’s Finest! Call Now for More Information or to Reserve a Room!
Bethany Retirement Living
201 University Dr S, Fargo ND 58103 701-239-3000
Persons with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia often require extra attention. Bethany’s Memory Care Unit offers a safe and pleasant environment, a multi-disciplinary team to address all aspects of care, a well-rounded schedule of activities, and personalized, daily programming specifically designed to care for the resident and family. www.bethanynd.org
Camtown Square
Memory Care Apartments
1500 7th St S, Moorhead, MN 56560 218-477-3202 • www.eventide.org
Located within The Linden Senior Living Apartments at Eventide’s Moorhead Campus, Camtown Square offers private memory care apartments in a secure community. Our memory care apartments are designed to help those with Alzheimer’s and dementia by offering support to maximize independence.
Pioneer Cottages Memory Care
Fergus Falls, MN: 218-998-9678
Breckenridge, MN: 218-643-9570
www.pioneercare.org
A non-profit provider of exceptional care and support in a homestyle setting for people living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of memory loss. PioneerCare is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA).
Prairie Square Memory Care
225 13th Ave W, West Fargo, ND 58078 701-478-6002 • www.eventide.org
Located within Sheyenne Crossings Senior Living Apartments at Eventide’s West Fargo campus, Prairie Square offers private memory care apartments in a secure community. Our memory care apartments are designed to help those with Alzheimer’s and dementia by offering support to maximize independence.
1251 3rd Ave NW, Dilworth, MN 218-477-7254
Serenity is a family owned and operated facility nestled in a residential neighborhood for over 18 years. We offer assisted living and memory care services. Serenity also as an onsite preschool and children integrate with our Grand Friends daily. Check out our Facebook page for a peek in the daily life of our ladies and gentlemen.
SMP Health - St Catherine North (formerly Rosewood on Broadway)
1351 Broadway N, Fargo, ND 701-277-7999
www.smphealth.org/stcatherinenorth
As part of the SMP Health System, we are a Catholic healthcare ministry providing skilled nursing and rehabilitation services for people needing short or long-term care when recovering from an injury or illness. Please take the time to call or stop by for a tour.
Touchmark At Harwood Groves
1200 Harwood Drive S, Fargo, ND 701-552-9559
With maintenance-free living, there’s more time for the activities you love. We offer a continuum of services to fit your needs now and in the future. TouchmarkFargo.com
Valley Senior Services
2801 32nd Ave S, Fargo (701) 293-1440 • ValleySeniorServices.org
Valley Senior Services promotes independence and better health for seniors 60+ years old through Meals On Wheels and community dining, transportation, supportive resources, and much more.
Bethany Retirement Living
201 University Dr S, Fargo • 701-239-3000 4255 30th Ave S, Fargo • 701-478-8900
When care at home isn’t an option, Bethany Retirement Living offers skilled nursing care, Medicare and Medicaid certified beds, short-term rehabilitation, physical-occupational-speech therapy, Memory Care Units, delicious meals and therapeutic recreation. Hospice is available. www.bethanynd.org
Eventide Fargo Care Center
3225 51st St S, Fargo ND 58104 701-478-6100 • www.eventide.org
Eventide Fargo offers long-term skilled nursing care or short-term transitional care. Private, spacious rooms located near social and activity areas. Physical, occupational and speech therapies are available within the community as well as church services and spiritual care.
Eventide on Eighth Care Center
1405 7th St S, Moorhead, MN 56560 218-233-7508 • www.eventide.org
Long term skilled nursing care and short term transitional care. Features Haugo Wellness Center and beautifully updated interior. Compassionate staff, recreation and social programs, spiritual support and physical, occupational and speech therapies. Medicare and Medicaid certified.
Eventide Sheyenne Crossings Care Center
125 13th Ave W, West Fargo ND 58078 701-478-6100 • www.eventide.org
Offers long-term nursing care and short-term transitional care. Spacious rooms, well-appointed dining and social areas, physical, occupational and speech therapies, and spiritual support. Compassionate, professional staff.
SMP Health - St Catherine North (formerly Rosewood on Broadway)
1351 Broadway N, Fargo, ND 701-277-7999
www.smphealth.org/stcatherinenorth
As part of the SMP Health System, we are a Catholic healthcare ministry providing skilled nursing and rehabilitation services for people needing short or long-term care when recovering from an injury or illness. Please take the time to call or stop by for a tour.
SMP Health - St. Catherine South (formerly Villa Maria) 701-293-7750
3102 S. University Drive, Fargo, ND 58103
www.smphealth.org/stcatherinesouth
As part of the SMP Health System, we are a Catholic healthcare ministry providing skilled nursing and rehabilitation services for people needing short or long term care when recovering from an injury or illness. Please take the time to call or stop by for a tour.
St. Francis Home
2400 St. Francis Drive, Breckenridge, MN 218-643-0553
80 bed skilled nursing care facility, Medicare & Medicaid certified. Residents experience an at-home style of living in a personal setting with private/single rooms, cozy living rooms and intimate dining areas. Resident-centered care is provided by health care professionals in a quiet environment. SFH is located on a campus with a continuum of health care services.
You can access primary care providers and diagnostic services without leaving the campus if you desire.
Bethany Retirement Living
201 University Dr S, Fargo • 701-239-3000
Our skilled nursing staff and on-site therapists can help you recover after an injury or illness. Physical, occupational and speech therapy can assist you during a short-term rehabilitation stay so you can return home or to another level of care. www.bethanynd.org
Eventide Fargo Care Center
3225 51st St S, Fargo, ND 58104 701-478-1800 • www.eventide.org
Short term specialized care following a hospital stay. Skilled therapists provide physical, occupational and speech therapy. Spacious rooms, beautiful dining and social areas and recreation programming. We’ll help you get back to doing what you love.
Eventide on Eighth Care Center
1405 7th St S, Moorhead, MN 56560 218-233-7508 • www.eventide.org
Short term specialized care following a hospital stay. Professional therapists provide physical, occupational and speech therapy. Social programs, private dining room, garden patio and comfortable accommodations. We’ll help you get back to doing what you love.
Eventide Sheyenne Crossings Care Center
125 13th Ave W, West Fargo ND 58078
701-478-6100 • www.eventide.org
Short term specialized care following a hospital stay. Skilled therapists provide physical, occupational and speech therapy. Spacious rooms, beautiful dining, social areas and recreation programming. We’ll help you get back to doing what you love.
SMP Health - St Catherine North (formerly Rosewood on Broadway)
1351 Broadway N, Fargo, ND 701-277-7999
www.smphealth.org/stcatherinenorth
As part of the SMP Health System, we are a Catholic healthcare ministry providing skilled nursing and rehabilitation services for people needing short or long-term care when recovering from an injury or illness. Please take the time to call or stop by for a tour.
SMP Health - St. Catherine South (formerly Villa Maria) 701-293-7750
3102 S. University Drive, Fargo, ND 58103 www.smphealth.org/stcatherinesouth
As part of the SMP Health System, we are a Catholic healthcare ministry providing skilled nursing and rehabilitation services for people needing short or long term care when recovering from an injury or illness. Please take the time to call or stop by for a tour.
St. Catherine’s Living Center
1307 7th St N, Wahpeton, ND 58075 701-642-6667 • www.blcwahpeton.org
We provided a warm, home-like environment for those who need more attention and care on a daily basis long-term or short term. Our Short term wing specializes in care for injuries or illnesses following a hospital stay. The newly remodeled private rooms along with chaplain services and recreational programs are available to those wanting to stay involved socially during their rehabilitation. With a newly remodeled therapy gym, therapists are here to provide physical, occupational and speech therapy to help you reach your goals.
Valley City, ND
855-860-3464 • Fax: 701-845-6552
CHIHealthatHome.info
Provides Medicare-certified home health services to clients in Carrington, Lisbon, Harvey, Oakes, Valley City and surrounding communities. Includes skilled nursing, aide, social services, as well as physical, occupational and speech therapies. We’re here to help you stay safe at home!
3361 45th Street South, Suite 100 Fargo, ND (701) 356-3803 • www.ethoscare.org
4255 30th Ave S, Fargo ND • 701-478-8900
Secure living for active seniors and part of Bethany Retirement Living. 1 & 2 bedroom apartments available; numerous amenities. An affordable rent structure makes Bethany Gables the perfect retirement living option. www.bethanynd.org
2890 Saffron Dr S, Fargo ND • 701-551-0805
The Grace Pointe Apartments offer a unique upscale living opportunity for those aged 55 and older. Large 1 & 2 bedroom units with balconies, under-building parking, specially designed common areas and access to the amenities in the Bethany on 42nd Town Center make Grace Pointe the perfect option. www.gracepointend.org
218-291-2230
• www.eventide.org
Sanders Flats is a NEW active adult community offering 1,2 and 3 bedroom apartments with modern amenities such as a pub, golf simulator, self-serve bistro, theatre and underground parking.
Breckenridge, MN
218-643-2275
• Fax: 218-643-2274
CHIHealthatHome.info
Provides Medicare-certified home health services to clients in MN and ND. Includes skilled nursing, aide, social services, as well as physical, occupational and speech therapies. We’re here to help you stay safe at home!
Ethos Home Care & Hospice is a non-profit, Christian-based organization that offers personal emergency response pendants and telehealth services to help individuals in the Fargo-Moorhead area remain safely in their homes. Our telehealth services help monitor the health of clients remotely through easy to use technology.
PioneerLink
1131 Mabelle Ave S, Fergus Falls, MN Toll Free 1-877-998-2621
www.pioneercare.org
A non-profit provider of personal alert services, home medication management systems and other innovative technology to enhance independence at home in central Minnesota and eastern Dakotas.
PioneerCare is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA).
MaryBeth (Meyers) Kalvig, 80, moved into The Eventide Living Center in Moorhead in 2022.
Little did she know, her cozy apartment on the second floor stands where her immigrant grandparents’ home once stood in the early 1900s—a happy coincidence.
“Their house was either right here where I live or just a few apartments down from me,” MaryBeth said. “I remember it well. There was a small milk house in the back.”
MaryBeth’s research, borne out of curiosity, uncovers a rich history in the area where Eventide Senior Living Communities in Moorhead is located today.
MaryBeth’s grandparents, Fred and Rose Maier, emigrated from Bessarabia, or what is now Moldova near Ukraine.
“They were chased out by the Tzar of Russia at the time,” MaryBeth said. “It was hard work getting out but they did.”
Once they emigrated and settled in their little home with the milk house in the back, Fred and Rose made a living farming the land, raising cows and chickens—as well as 12 children. Their 600-square-foot shack had just enough land in the back to grow food to eat and sell.
Putting the size of the home into perspective, MaryBeth notes that her cozy Eventide Living Center apartment is about 550-square feet—the perfect size for an active retiree and her cat.
“My dad told me he and his siblings slept in the loft, and that they built a little bedroom for Grandma and Grandpa,” she said. “Dad said it wasn’t hard. They had mattresses and quilts and pillows up there for everyone.”
Although the Maier family did well for themselves, the income from selling produce just wasn’t enough, so Grandpa Fred also worked for the Northern Pacific Railroad.
“He would walk to Main Avenue from here in the winter because there was nothing out here until you reached Main Avenue to pick up the train,” MaryBeth said. So he’d walk a mile or so to the train stop, work nine hours, get dropped off by the train at night and walk home another mile.”
The Fairmont Creamery was one of the area’s largest employers of residents who lived in the area. Contributed photo: Minnesota Historical Society
Many residents of the area, mostly new Americans who emigrated from northern and eastern Europe, were community farmers who tilled crops in fields located just in their backyards.
Other residents worked at Concordia College or “commuted” by foot to the
“Oh, yes! We went to see Grandma and Grandpa on the weekends and that was just the way they were. It was their life to work, and that’s kind of the way it was back then,” she said.
MaryBeth remembers her grandmother’s strong eastern European accent and the smell of the coal oven that cooked food and kept the house warm.
Eventually, Fred and Rose Maier moved to warmer climes in California, and in the years to come, their neighborhood with the little farms and the milk house and the horsedrawn carts were replaced by bigger homes, cars and commerce.
Fairmont Creamery to spend entire days doing repetitive tasks, such as shelling eggs for pennies a day.
Those who farmed like MaryBeth’s grandparents, sold their produce at local markets, likely in downtown Moorhead where a few grocers had storefronts, according to public records.
“Right around 1900, my family started moving to this area from Bessarabia, which of course is now a part of Ukraine,” MaryBeth said. “Most of the people in the neighborhood were also from parts of eastern Europe and the Scandinavian countries.”
The milk house was also a source of income for the Maier family.
“There was a hired man who lived in the milk house, and my dad as a teenager would clean glass milk bottles by hand,” MaryBeth said. “They sold vegetables from a horsedrawn cart, and then one day they realized they could make additional money if they sold butter and cream on the cart.”
After setting up a deal with a cattle farmer in the area, they started purchasing milk to process and pasteurize so people didn’t have to go all the way to the big creamery north of their neighborhood.
MaryBeth’s father and his siblings delivered directly to people’s homes. “He had his own little creamery business on the side,” she said.
MaryBeth’s aunt Maggie Hanson and her husband Alvin also lived on the street, which may have been adjacent to one of the Probstfield family homes in the neighborhood.
Details are difficult to confirm with public records located at the Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County, though even the anecdotal evidence is enough to remind us that there is rich history underneath our
feet—wherever we may roam.
For MaryBeth, that evidence is stored in her memory. “When I moved in here, I kept thinking about how this area looked so familiar because of Concordia, and then I realized, boy, I’m really close to Grandma and Grandpa’s.”
We asked MaryBeth if she remembers visiting her grandparents in their little Moorhead home.
Yet, while the historic neighborhood certainly looks different, what hasn’t changed is the sense of community, which is as bustling and alive as it’s ever been right here at Eventide.
Do you have a story to share about the history of an Eventide location?
Our curiosity is piqued, and so are our residents’. If you have information about the history of your nearest Eventide location, we’d love to hear from you. Please contact Carrie at carrie.carney@eventide.org to share your story.
As you age, your skin undergoes several changes, including the loss of elasticity, thinning and dryness. These changes can make your skin more prone to damage and infection. Here are a few tips to help you keep your skin healthy:
1. STAY HYDRATED. Drink plenty of water to help keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
2. MOISTURIZE REGULARLY. Use a good quality moisturizer daily to keep your skin supple and hydrated.
3. PROTECT YOUR SKIN FROM THE SUN. Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, and wear protective clothing, such as longsleeved shirts, hats and sunglasses when you’re outside.
4. EAT A BALANCED DIET. Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein and healthy fats to help keep your skin healthy and radiant.
5. GET ENOUGH SLEEP. Lack of sleep can take a toll on your skin, so it’s important to get enough rest. Aim for at least seven hours of sleep a night.
6. BE GENTLE. Avoid using harsh soaps and hot water, which can strip your skin of its natural oils. Use mild cleansers and lukewarm water instead.
By following these tips, you can keep your skin healthy and glowing as you age.
Are you looking after your children and aging parents while you’re getting on in years?
Here are three tips to help you overcome the tough times and avoid burnout.
1. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF
FIRST. Prioritize your well-being and take care of yourself first. This will allow you to offer your children and parents the support and time they need.
2. GET YOUR FINANCES IN
ORDER. Talk openly about your financial situation with your family members and focus on what you can control, such as the costs associated with your children’s post-secondary education and your parents’ loss of independence.
3. ORGANIZE YOUR SCHEDULE. Involve other family members in your planning, and don’t hesitate to delegate tasks to each person based on their abilities.
Remember, resources like home care services or financial assistance are available to you. Don’t hesitate to use them to ease some of your burden.
Makingeachmomentmatter, ForYou,ForThem,ForUs.
Youmightsaylong-goodbyesarejustapartofourmidwestculture, especiallywhenit’salovedone,afriend,orafamilymember.It’s whoweare,wecareforpeople.Andthat’swhatHospiceoftheRed RiverValleyhasbeenprovidingsince1981,dedicatedtomaking eachmomentmatter,foryou,forthemandforus,byprovidingthe compassionandcareeveryonedeservesthroughtheirlife’sjourney.
www.hrrv.org|800.237.4629|questions@hrrv.org
Taking care of your health after 50: what you need to know
Have you recently joined the “50s club,” or have you been a member for a few years? Chances are you’ve started to notice changes in your health. Whether these changes are occasional or permanent, here are some tips to help you take good care of your health after 50.
Choose nutrient-dense foods to slow muscle loss and help your body regulate cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Try putting these tips into practice:
• Eat fiber-rich foods whenever possible, such as starchy foods and legumes
• Always include fruit and vegetables in your meals
• Limit your intake of sugary, fatty and processed foods
• Add lean protein to your meals, such as poultry, fish or tofu
• Find out if you need any dietary supplements
Regular physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of cardiovascular incidents, which are
more likely to occur after age 50. Staying active can also improve your stamina, reduce stress and improve your sleep. Try to include these activities in your daily routine:
• Stretching
• Flexibility exercises
• Walking
• Cycling
• Swimming
Quality sleep is essential to your health. It stimulates your metabolism to regulate your mood and weight and helps control your stress levels, which can have several physical and mental consequences.
Improve your sleep by following these tips:
• Follow a sleep routine by going to bed and getting up at the same times every day
• Invest in a high-quality mattress and pillow
• Avoid using screens before bed
• Try not to consume caffeinated food and drinks, like coffee, tea, cola and chocolate in the evening
The risk of developing diseases linked to the circulatory system or cancer increases as you age. An annual check-up with your doctor and knowing your family history will help you spot any signs and symptoms of illness at the onset. Find out about recommended vaccinations and the following tests:
• Mammogram
• Gynaecological examination
• Colonoscopy
• Prostate exam
• Blood pressure check
• Blood tests
• Eye exam
Pay close attention to your body as you move into your fifties. If you notice any worrying changes in your body, consult a health professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist.
Growing older typically involves the need for additional support and care. Many seniors face the choice between retirement homes and assisted living facilities. Each offers distinct advantages and caters to different levels of independence.
Retirement homes cater to independent seniors seeking a vibrant community lifestyle. These residences offer a maintenance-free living experience, encouraging social engagement and a sense of camaraderie among residents. With amenities like communal dining and organized activities, retirement homes provide an environment where seniors can maintain their independence while enjoying the benefits of community living.
On the other hand, assisted living is designed for seniors requiring additional support with daily activities. Trained staff help residents with bathing, medication management and mobility tasks. Assisted living facilities balance independence and personalized care, allowing seniors to maintain autonomy while receiving the necessary assistance tailored to their needs.
The decision between a retirement home and assisted living depends on several factors:
• Level of independence. Can you manage daily tasks independently, or do you require assistance?
• Medical needs. Do you have any chronic health conditions requiring medical supervision? Do you need help managing your medication?
• Social needs. Do you enjoy a vibrant social environment or prefer a quieter setting?
• Financial considerations. Compare the costs of different communities and factor in available financial resources.
Navigating the world of senior living can be overwhelming. Seeking guidance from a trusted elder care advisor or social worker can provide valuable support and help you identify the best option for your needs. Additionally, touring different communities lets you experience the atmosphere, amenities and care levels firsthand.
By carefully assessing your unique requirements, you can ensure you find a living arrangement that enhances your overall quality of life during this special time.
This Easter brunch, surprise your guests with this elegant and fresh lemonade with a hint of lavender.
Servings: 6
Ingredients
• 1 cup water • 1 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons dried lavender or 2/3 cup fresh lavender
• Juice of 3 lemons
• 34 ounces carbonated water
• Lemon slices and lavender stems for garnish
Are you looking for a delicious way to celebrate Easter? These mouth-watering mini pitas are easy to prepare and burst with flavor.
Servings: 12
Ingredients
• 8 ounces of mock crab or pollock
• 1 cup English cucumber, finely diced
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1/3 cup Miracle Whip or mayonnaise
• A few sprigs of fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 French shallot, finely chopped
• A few drops of hot sauce of your choice
• 2 teaspoons seafood seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 12 mini pitas
Who doesn’t love cupcakes?
This Easter, make this irresistible recipe to treat your guests.
Servings: 12
Ingredients for the cupcakes
• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• 4 ounces neutral vegetable oil (e.g. canola)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 large room-temp eggs
• 1 ½ cups peeled and grated carrots (about 2 medium carrots)
Ingredients for the frosting
• 1 cup mascarpone cheese
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Insert cupcake liners into a 12-count muffin tin.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. This includes the flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon and nutmeg.
4. In a large bowl, combine the oil, vanilla, white sugar and brown sugar. Add the
Directions
1. In a small saucepan, bring the cup of water to a boil and add the sugar. Let simmer for a few minutes. Then, remove from the heat. Add the lavender and cover. Let it steep for 15 minutes. Strain through a sieve.
2. Pour the lavender mixture, lemon juice and carbonated water into a jug.
Refrigerate for at least an hour. Garnish with lemon slices
Directions
1. In a bowl, combine the mock crab, cucumber, corn, mayonnaise, cilantro, shallot, hot sauce and seasoning. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Then, let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
2. Stuff the mini pitas and serve.
*Ideally, use fresh corn that you’ve cooked or frozen corn prepared according to the package instructions. Avoid using canned corn, as the texture may be unpleasant.
Does your local grocery store not have any mini pitas? Don’t worry. Simply cut traditional-sized pitas in half to enjoy this delicious treat.
eggs one at a time, mixing well after each incorporation.
5. Using a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl, slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Gradually add the grated carrots and mix well.
6. Using a large ladle, divide the mixture evenly between the 12 muffin cups (each should be two-thirds full).
7. Bake for 25 minutes. Check the doneness by sticking a toothpick into the center of one cupcake. It should come out dry. Let the
cupcakes cool completely.
8. While the cupcakes are cooling, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar and vanilla in a bowl.
9. In another bowl, whip the heavy cream with a whisk or hand mixer until stiff peaks form.
10. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture. Frost the cupcakes and decorate them with chocolates or nuts.
Do you have children or grandchildren? Let them decorate the cupcakes however they like. They’ll love this creative activity!
Are you looking to expand your knowledge and learn something new? Fortunately, there are plenty of online learning resources available that are specifically tailored to seniors.
One great resource for seniors is Coursera, an online learning platform offering courses from top universities around the world. You can take classes on topics ranging from computer science to psychology, and everything in between.
Moreover, many worldrenowned museums offer both free and paid virtual tours, including the Louvre, the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Smithsonian. You can tour art and history collections from the comfort of your home.
Another great resource is TED Talks. These short, informative videos cover a wide range of topics and are presented by experts in their fields. You can learn about everything from the latest scientific discoveries to the art of storytelling.
If you’re looking for something more interactive, you might want to check out Skillshare. This online learning community offers thousands of courses on topics like photography, graphic design and cooking. You can even find local experts to help you hone a new skill.
Why not embrace your curiosity and dive into the world of online learning?
Moving to a retirement home is a significant life change, and legal and estate planning must be given careful consideration. Here are eight points to consider:
1. REVIEW DOCUMENTS. Update legal documents such as your will, power of attorney and healthcare directives to reflect your current wishes.
2. UNDERSTAND CONTRACTS. Review your retirement home contract with a lawyer to understand your rights, fees and restrictions.
3. EVALUATE YOUR FINANCES. Assess your finances to balance retirement home expenses. Consult with a financial advisor for long-term funding options.
4. MANAGE YOUR ASSETS. Plan for the future of your property and assets, aligning decisions with your overall estate plan.
5. PLAN HEALTHCARE AND TAXES. Adjust your healthcare plan, considering potential tax implications and seeking professional advice.
6. LEAVE A LEGACY. Discuss inheritance wishes with a lawyer, considering the move’s impact on asset distribution.
7. COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR FAMILY. Communicate openly with your family about your decisions, ensuring a shared understanding of your plans.
8. GET PROFESSIONAL HELP. Hire a legal professional, financial advisor or tax professional for personalized advice on navigating the legal and financial complexities related to the move.
Proactively addressing these issues ensures a smooth transition to a retirement home, safeguarding your interests and providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
Homeward Animal Shelter
Stretching your dollar and sticking to your budget has never been easier. The following businesses offer discounts to senior citizens in the Fargo, Moorhead and West Fargo area.
$ SENIOR
Theatre B
FMCT
Individual senior tickets pricing is $20 tickets for Musicals, $18 tickets for Plays, and $12 tickets for FMCT Ed. Visit www.fmct.org or call the box office at 701-235-6778.
YMCA of Cass and Clay County
Fercho YMCA: 701-293-9622
Schlossman YMCA: 701-281-0126
Fargo Golf
Metro Senior Ride Service
A-1 Moving Company
Dairy Queen
$
the Forum
display
your business’ discount to over 60,000 readers.
Fryin Pan Restaurant
Has your child left home and spread their wings? This change can cause a range of emotions that can be difficult to deal with. Don’t worry! It’s perfectly normal. Here’s what you need to know about empty nest syndrome.
Empty nest syndrome is a psychological condition that affects around one-third of all parents. It’s characterized by extreme sadness, anxiety and a feeling of emptiness and abandonment that can lead to depression. It’s caused by loneliness, the need to redefine yourself and the loss of contact with your child.
This kind of life change can lead to the following psychological indicators:
• You frequently feel worried or anxious about your child’s new responsibilities
• You have a pervasive feeling of loneliness
• You lack motivation because your daily life has changed so much
• You feel like you’ve lost your identity as a parent
• You notice a stark change in your behavior
Take advantage of your child’s departure to ask yourself what you want to do with your life and whether you have any goals you want to achieve, like learning a new language, taking up a sport or trying a hobby. Here are a few ideas to help you overcome this heavy feeling of emptiness:
• Find different ways to stay in touch with your child
• Focus on your own needs
• Re-establish yourself as a committed partner in your relationship
• Consider the positive aspects of your child’s newfound independence If you think you may be suffering from empty nest syndrome, talk about it with those close to you and seek professional support if necessary.
Are you a senior looking for a new hobby that’s both relaxing and rewarding? Birdwatching might just be what you need. Not only is it a great way to get outside and spend time in nature, but it’s also a fantastic way to spend time with friends and family who share your interests.
First, you’ll need a good pair of binoculars and a birding guide. You can find these at most outdoor supply stores or online. Once you have your gear, it’s time to head out into the great outdoors.
One of the best things about birdwatching is that you can do it just about anywhere. Whether
you’re in a local park, on a hike or even in your backyard, there are always birds to be found. To get the most out of your birdwatching experience, try to go out at dawn or dusk when birds are most active.
As you start to spot different bird species, try to take note of their distinct features such as their size, color and shape. You can even bring along a notebook and jot down your observations. This will help you identify the different species later and add to the fun of the experience.
Why not give birdwatching a try? You might just discover a new passion that will keep you entertained for years to come.
Hardcover | $30.00
February 6, 2024 | 480 Pages
A #1 bestseller on The New York Times, USA Today, Washington Post, and Los Angeles Times!
From the celebrated author of The Nightingale and The Four Winds comes Kristin Hannah’s The Women—at once an intimate portrait of coming of age in a dangerous time and an epic tale of a nation divided.
Women can be heroes. When twentyyear-old nursing student Frances “Frankie” McGrath hears these words, it is a revelation. Raised in the sundrenched, idyllic world of Southern California and sheltered by her conservative parents, she has always prided herself on doing the right thing. But in 1965, the world is changing, and she suddenly dares to imagine a different future for herself. When her brother ships out to serve in Vietnam, she joins the Army Nurse Corps and follows his path.
As green and inexperienced as the men sent to Vietnam to fight, Frankie is over-whelmed by the chaos and destruction of war. Each day is a gamble of life and death, hope and betrayal; friendships run deep and can be shattered in an instant. In war, she meets—and becomes one of—the lucky,
the brave, the broken, and the lost.
But war is just the beginning for Frankie and her veteran friends. The real battle lies in coming home to a changed and divided America, to angry protesters, and to a country that wants to forget Vietnam.
The Women is the story of one woman gone to war, but it shines a light on all women who put themselves in harm’s way and whose sacrifice and commitment to their country has too often been forgotten. A novel about deep friendships and bold patriotism, The Women is a richly drawn story with a memorable heroine whose idealism and courage under fire will come to define an era.
Hardcover | $30.00
March 18, 2024 | 432 Pages
Move over Grisham, Patterson’s Greatest Legal Thriller Ever
America’s top lawyer is on trial for murdering his beautiful wife. Biloxi’s best criminal defense attorney has never lost a case. Then his wife is murdered, and he becomes the #1 suspect.
Stafford Lee Penney is a small-town lawyer with a big-time reputation for winning every case he tries. In his sharp suits and polished Oxford shoes, Penney is Biloxi, Mississippi’s #1 Lawyer and top local celebrity.
Just as Penney notches his latest courtroom victory, his wife is scandalously killed. He spirals into a legal and personal losing streak, damaging his reputation and ruining his career.
That’s when Penney makes a bold decision. He stops trading on his
power-lawyer identity and creates a new one: lawyer lifeguard. Moonlighting at the beach, showing up to court in flipflops, mentoring a law student, the new Penney is at first unrecognizable.
It’s said that a lawyer who represents himself has a fool for a client. But when Penney is accused of murder, the #1 Lawyer will find a way to triumph.
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Hardcover | $18.99
February 6, 2024 | 40 Pages
A cute French snail sets off on a springtime adventure with an adorable bunny in this laugh-outloud fourth picture book in the bestselling Escargot series—the perfect gift for Easter or all year round.
Bonjour! After a long winter spent indoors, Escargot can’t wait to look outside for the first signs of Spring. Will he find a new friend in the fluffy white bunny he meets along the way?
From New York Times–bestselling author Dashka Slater and former Pixar animator Sydney Hanson, Escargot and the Search for Spring is an irresistibly sweet and charming story about unlikely friendship, changing seasons, and springtime fun. This hilarious
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Hardcover | $19.99
February 20, 2024 | 40 Pages
Celebrating the love of grandparents and grandchildren, this gorgeous companion to the Caldecott Honor–winning Nana in the City is an appealing intergenerational exploration of country life.
When Nana comes from the city to visit her grandson in the country, the boy is so excited to teach her about all the wonderful things he does on the farm where he lives—feeding the ducks, milking the cow, even tending to bees.
But to his disappointment, Nana already seems to know how to do just about everything. And she isn’t the least
and interactive addition to the awardwinning Escargot series is the ideal read aloud for story time and animal lovers alike.
Don’t miss Escargot’s other funny and heartwarming adventures for kids ages
4-6 in:
• Escargot (also available as a board book for babies and toddlers up to 3 years old)
• A Book for Escargot
• Love, Escargot (also available as a board book for babies and toddlers up to 3 years old)
bit nervous about picking up bugs or easing a hen aside to collect an egg. But then a storm hits in the night, and the boy must take the lead and make sure the animals are safe and dry.
And it turns out there are many more unique-to-the-country adventures to surprise his beloved Nana with.
Dyou know that knitting and crocheting is about more than creating beautiful pieces of art?
Not only are they great hobbies that can help you unwind and relax, but studies have shown that they can also have a positive impact on your health.
Both knitting and crocheting are known to reduce stress levels. The repetitive motions and focus required in these activities can have a calming effect on the mind and body, like meditation. This makes them a great way to combat anxiety and depression.
Moreover, these activities can also improve your cognitive function.
Knitting and crocheting require the use of both hands, which helps improve hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. Following a pattern and keeping track of the stitches can also help to sharpen your memory and concentration.
Knitting and crocheting can also be beneficial for your physical health. The motion of these activities can help to relieve joint pain and stiffness, which is especially beneficial for those with conditions such as arthritis.
If you’re looking for a fun and engaging way to improve your health, give knitting or crocheting a try.
Retirement homes and assisted living facilities provide a safe and supportive environment for seniors, allowing them to live independent and fulfilling lives. What exactly goes on behind the scenes to ensure this? Here are some of the critical roles of retirement home staff:
• Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) are frontline heroes. They assist residents with daily tasks like bathing, dressing and medication management. They also monitor residents’ health and report any changes to nurses.
• Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) or Registered Nurses (RNs) oversee resident care, administer medications, manage medical conditions and collaborate with physicians.
• Activity directors plan and organize engaging activities to promote social
interaction, physical fitness and cognitive stimulation.
• Housekeeping staff maintain the cleanliness and sanitation of the facility, ensuring a comfortable and healthy environment.
• Dining services staff prepare and serve nutritious meals, catering to residents’ dietary needs and preferences.
• Maintenance staff handle repairs and maintenance of the building and grounds, ensuring the facility’s safety and functionality.
• Administrative staff manage the facility’s day-to-day operations, handling admissions, finances and resident care coordination.
This team of dedicated professionals works together to ensure residents live with dignity and independence.
