McHarrie LifeTimes Fall 2017

FALL/WINTER 2017

A Health and Wellness Magazine of McHarrie Life Senior Community

In the Blink of an Eye…

From Caregiver to...

“In Need of Care...”

Five Potentially Dangerous Words for Your Health…

“I Read on the Internet….”

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Dear Sunshine I Miss You

Caregiver Stress

Tips for Taking Care of Yourself

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Tips to Help You Live to

100

Gratitude…

McHarrie

At McHarrie Life, we believe our success begins with our dedicated, kind and caring staff.

Independen

Our employees give their heart and soul every day to love, nurture and care for all those we are privileged to serve.

McHarrie Place

Health & Rehabilitation Center

We understand that our success begins M c H a r r i e To w n e with the very people who are committed to caring about Independent Living others.

Last year, we introduced Inspire Health and Wellness Program. Its purpose is to promote M c Hwellness a r r i e inPthe l a cworke place through creative, fun and innovative activities and Health & Rehabilitation events to enhance the physical, mental and emotional Center well-being of our staff.

McHarri

Founda

McHarrie Pointe Assisted Living Residence

Admissions: 315-638-2525

Currently, over a quarter of our staff are actively partici­ pating in the Inspire walking program—earning incen­tives for every new level of miles walked. We also offer a free staff library, discounted gym memberships, special events, giveaways and raffles to keep the atmosphere light and fun. Whether it’s an Ugly Sweater Contest, or a chili cook-off, both our staff and residents enjoy much laughter and fun as part of our everyday.

We are committed to providing the best care to our residents and staff. When our team feels confident, happy, and secure, they bestow those feelings to those around them.

Admissions: 315-638-2521

McHarrie Life Foundation

Sage Court

Memory Care @ McHarrie Pointe Admissions: 315-638-2525

M c H a r r i e To w n e Independent Living Admissions: 315-638-1172 To request information about our programs,

M catH a r r i M c H a r r i e P l aplease c e call 315-638-2521 or visit our website

With much gratitude, I would like to take this time to honor Health our staff, volunteers, board members, families and donors for all that they’ve given to contribute to our 166 year legacy of caring for our community.

Thank you for making McHarrie Life a wonderful place to work and live.

& Rehabilitation www.mcharrielife.org.

Center LifeTimes is a publication of McHarrie Life

Assisted Resid

Senior Community 7740 Meigs Road McHarrie Life Baldwinsville, New York 13027 Foundation 315-638-2521 LifeTimes Editor: Kelly O’Neill-Rossi Director, Development & Marketing If you would like to add/remove your mailing address information, please email krossi@mcharrielife.org.

Mark Murphy, CEO

McHarrie Life Senior Community is a not-for-profit organization that offers a continuum of healthcare programs and services for older adults including; independent living at McHarrie Towne, assisted living and memory care at McHarrie Pointe, and short-term rehabilitation and skilled nursing care at McHarrie Place. All programs and services are conveniently located at 7740 Meigs Road in Baldwinsville, New York.

Proof! Age Really IS Just a Number Great accomplishments by Americans who never let their age stop them from pursuing their dreams…

Nola Ochs from Jetmore, Kansas earned her Master’s degree in liberal studies from Fort Hays State University at the age of 98, and was a graduate teaching assistant at the college at age 100.

Lt. Col. James C. Warren, a former navigator of the Tuskegee Airmen—the first African American military aviators in the United States Armed Forces, was the oldest person to obtain his pilot’s license at the age of 87.

Dr. Leila Denmark, an American Pediatrician from Athens, Georgia and co-developer of the whooping cough vaccine, retired from her practice at age 103 after a very successful 73 year career. She lived to 114 years old.

Harriette Thompson of North Carolina was the oldest female to finish a 26.2 mile marathon at the age of 92 in San Diego, California in 2015. This year, she also successfully completed a half marathon, and is now the oldest person to have completed both a full and half marathon.

At age 64, Galen Carter Spencer competed in the 1904 Summer Olympics in Archery, earning a gold medal.

Agnes Ahelesnik continued as a Home Economics Teacher at Sundance School in New Jersey teaching young children how to bake and sew even after she turned 102 years old in 2016.

Frank Schearer of Washington State was still water skiing for fun at the age of 100.

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ave you accomplished an amazing feat despite your age or do you know someone who has? If so, we would love to hear from you! It’s always inspiring to share the experiences of those in our community who live life to its fullest, and never let age limit their lifelong dreams. Please send your story to Kelly O’Neill-Rossi, LifeTimes Magazine editor at krossi@mcharrielife.org.

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Dear Sunshine, I Miss You

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10 Tips to Help You Live to 100

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In The Blink of An Eye—From Caregiver to In Need of Care

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Five Potentially Dangerous Words for Your Health…“I Read on the Internet….”

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McHarrie Life Employee Celebrates 42 Years of Service

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16th Annual Afternoon of Theater Event

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Caregiver Stress—Tips for Taking Care of Yourself

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McHarrie Towne Celebrates Milestone Anniversary

Back Cover

Tips for Keeping Your New Year’s Resolutions

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FALL/WINTER 2017

Dear Sunshine, A

s the days grow colder and daylight hours dwindle, approximately 6 percent of the United States population experiences Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)—a form of depression that typically occurs during the fall and winter months due to lack of sunlight. It is linked to a biochem­ical imbalance in the brain caused by the change of seasons. Another 14 percent of the United States population suffers from a lesser form of seasonal mood changes known as winter blues.

People who live in northern climates are more often impacted by SAD than those living in southern climates but it can occur anywhere throughout the world.

SAD may begin at any age, but onset most com­monly occurs in women between the ages of 18 and 30. It can negatively affect a person’s life by disrupting their daily routine, career, and relationships with loved ones.

SAD symptoms include; feelings of sadness and depressed mood, loss of interest in regular activities, changes in appetite, excessive sleeping, low energy and fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, difficulty con­ centrating, and suicidal thoughts.

The most common forms of treatment include; light therapy, counseling and medication. On average, SAD sufferers have symptoms that last 40% of the year but with daily light therapy, they may feel better within a week. If you are experiencing the symptoms of SAD, it is important to contact your doctor to determine what treatment is best for you.

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I Miss You 10 Winter Survival Tips to Help Chase the Winter Blues Away: TO MUSIC. By choosing A TRIP TO A SUNNY q LISTEN t PLAN upbeat and cheerful tunes, music STATE. Schedule a mid-winter trip can positively impact your mood, soothe your mind and invoke good memories.

A WALK. Even if the w TAKE snowflakes are falling from the

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sky, bundle up, grab a walking buddy and go out for a walk. The fresh air and natural light will make you feel better. If possible, walk during your lunch hour for a mid-day boost.

RESIST THE URGE TO BINGE WATCH. Enjoying a series marathon once in awhile is fine, but studies show that regular binge watching can be harmful to your health. Instead, ask a family member or friend to go out for a movie night.

WELL. Overeating and r EAT overindulging causes weight gain

which may contribute to feelings of excessive guilt and depression. Try to limit carbohydrates and sugary desserts and add more fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet.

to a warm, sunny destination or visit a nearby town for a change of scenery.

AVOID HUNKERING DOWN. Study ies show that people are generally happier and live longer when they have an active social life vs. staying home alone.

A FIELD TRIP TO u TAKE MICHAEL’S CRAFT STORE

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OR HOME DEPOT—Both stores offer a wide range of classes to learn a new skill or hobby. Home Depot offers free DIY workshops for children and adults. It is an educational and wonderful way to pass the time.

LET THERE BE LIGHT. Open your shades, blinds and curtains to allow as much natural light as possible into your home every day.

DE-CLUTTER YOUR HOME. o Donate items you no longer need

to charity—and organize your home so that everything has its place. A tidy, well organized home helps keep stress at bay.

Helping others can a VOLUNTEER. help expose you to new experiences, improve your outlook, and make the winter months pass by more quickly.

Sharon Johnson, (right) enjoys spending time with Syracuse Home resident Marie Collins.

“My mom was a resident at Syracuse Home.

After she passed away, I started volunteering regularly. After spending time with residents, I carry the feeling of goodness home with me, and it spreads through my life and to my family. The residents may forget who I am, but I don’t forget them long after I go home.

Volunteering benefits both the residents and me, especially during the long winter months.”

—Sharon Johnson, Volunteer and Syracuse Home Auxiliary President Join over 100 volunteers who regularly volunteer at Syracuse Home. For more information, please contact Teri Tarolli, Volunteer Coordinator, at 315-638-2521.

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Y o p l u e L H i v o e t s t o p i T eople are living longer than ever before. According to the Center for Disease Control, the average life expectancy for men and women in the United States increased from age 47.3 in 1900 to age 78.8 in 2015.

Improvements in medicine, health education, sanitation, vaccines and antibiotics have greatly contributed to the increase in longevity.

Researchers believe genetics and lifestyle choices play an important role in the lives of centenarians. Although we cannot control our genes, we do have the power to influence our everyday lifestyle choices.

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Floss daily.

Flossing and overall dental health reduces your chances of infectious diseases which may lead to heart disease.

1Eat more fish.

What’s A Centenarian?

It’s someone who has lived to 100 years old or older.

The American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least two times per week as part of a healthy diet. Fish is packed with protein, vitamins, and nutrients that can lower blood pressure and help reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke. Good choices include; wild Alaskan salmon, tilapia, flounder and haddock.

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Keep Moving.

Sedentary people run a higher risk of premature death than active people so walk, jog, bike, snowshoe, ski, etc. at least 30 minutes every day.

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FALL/WINTER 2017

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Play games.

Reconnect with your inner child—laugh, play games, and enjoy the little things in life.

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Make fresh fruits and vegetables part of your everyday diet.

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Say goodbye to smoking forever.

There’s truly nothing better for you than fresh food from the earth.

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Stay connected with others.

Research shows that strong social connections help create a sense of purpose and well-being that contributes to longevity.

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Challenge your mind.

Read books, take a class, do Sudoku puzzles.

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Start a hobby.

It reduces stress and provides a sense of accomplishment.

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Get your Zzzzzzzs.

Never underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep.

Aim for 7-8 hours a night.

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FALL/WINTER 2017

In the Blink of an Eye…

From Caregiver to. . .

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ne cold snowy Saturday evening this past winter, 56 year-old Baldwinsville resident Nancy Lundy and her husband, Todd, made plans to go out to dinner.

“When I walked out to the driveway to get into the car, I slipped, fell and broke my femur.” The break was so painful, Nancy laid in her snowy driveway for a very long 20 minutes until the ambulance arrived.

The next day, she had surgery on her leg which required eight screws, a metal plate, and cadaver bone to repair. She spent six days in the hospital recovering from a very difficult surgery and unexpected complica-

tions from it. “The whole experience felt surreal and dream-like. I am the kind of person who never stops moving—and has a passion for cooking and baking for my family. This injury took me from a very busy 100 mph life to zero. My femur was broken just above my recent total knee replacement. My doctor told me that recovery was going to be extensive. It was devastating news to me.”

The couple snowshoes regularly throughout the winter. Nancy kayaking in Redfield with her husband, Todd

Nancy is a licensed home daycare provider who has spent the past 20 years nurturing, loving and caring for children ranging from ages 8 weeks to 12 years old. She is also the mother of four grown sons ages 36, 34, 20 and 17. “There were many people who needed me, including my elderly mother who I care for.”

As the end of her hospital stay approached, Nancy was shocked to learn that she was unable to return home. “My doctor told me that I could not bend or put any weight on my leg for an indefinite period of time. I was asked to choose a rehab facility where I would stay.”

Thankfully, she learned that there was a rehab program at Syra-

cuse Home right near her home in Baldwinsville. “It was extremely important for me to be as close to my family as possible,” she says.

When Nancy arrived at Syracuse Home, she was very weak, depressed, overwhelmed and emotional. “I went from the caretaker of my family and daycare children to a person who needed care. I had never needed to be taken care of before, and it was terrifying to me.”

After settling into her new room and becoming acquainted with the staff, her heart lightened. “I cannot say enough about my experience at Syracuse Home. At first, I sat helplessly in my wheelchair feeling like I would never live my life again. I was terrified to begin therapy in fear of another fall. My therapist, Dave, gave me so much confidence, and promised me he would never ask me to do something I couldn’t do.

And he was right. He truly made me believe I would regain my life and do everything I needed to do to recover,” says Nancy.

Thirty days later, Nancy was discharged from Syracuse Home to return home and back to her life.

“My therapists helped me believe in myself. The Physical Therapy team pushed and encouraged me to progress to the best of my ability.”

FALL/WINTER 2017

“In Need of Care. . .”

The philosophy of the short-term rehabilitation program at Syracuse Home encompasses healing of not just the physical body, but also the person’s mental and emotional wellbeing, too. “I needed the mental and emotional support to accomplish the physical,” she says.

During Nancy’s most fearful, tearful and overwhelming moments, she was comforted and consoled by her nurse, Connie. “She was absolutely wonderful with me, and we have since become friends.”

Four months post-surgery and rehabilitation, Nancy was back to running her full-time daycare center, and looking forward to hiking, snowshoeing and snowmobiling in the beautiful outdoors of North Central, New York.

“I need to take care of people. It’s who I am, and with much thanks to the entire staff at Syracuse Home, I am back to the life I love so much.”

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FALL/WINTER 2017

Five Potentially Dangerous Words for Your Health…

“I Read on the Internet….”

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very day, millions of people search the Internet for personal health information. Unfortunately, the information is often conflicting and inaccurate causing unnecessary anxiety, confusion, and in rare occurrences, death.

There is a plethora of websites on the Internet offering a wide range of health advice, testimonials, miracle cures and misinformation.

It is estimated that 60 percent of the health information you read on the Internet is inaccurate, biased or misleading.

When researching health information, note that the websites ending in…. .gov—identify a United States government agency .edu—identify an educational institution like a school, college or university .org—typically represents non-profit organizations .com—the most common generic domain that identifies commercial websites Before using the Internet to research a recent diagnosis or health issue, keep in mind the difference between educating yourself, and self-diagnosis. For example, if you

were recently diagnosed by your doctor with an illness or disease, learning more about it can help you better understand your options for the future. However, self-diagnosis can be dangerous for your health, especially for those who typically avoid seeking medical attention.

Last year, 57 year-old Marilyn James spent several weeks suffering with a bad cold that wouldn’t go away. Despite her family’s urging to see her family physician, she assured them, “I looked it up on the Internet. It is just a head cold, and all I need to do is rest.” On the 14th day of her illness, Marilyn felt worse, not better. She woke up unable to catch her breath, and by the time the ambulance arrived, she had died.

Marilyn had the flu, which had spiraled into pneumonia, and tragically caused her body to become septic.

This is an example of just one of the many dangers of self-diagnosis.

So it’s really important to always consult with your doctor first regarding health concerns or making any changes to your prescribed medication or treatment plan.

On the positive side, the Internet can provide valuable information for your health, especially when it comes to understanding a recent diagnosis, or the signs/symptoms of a potentially serious health problem. It’s also a wonderful source of

support for those who share their experiences to help others who are struggling with a new diagnosis, and for those seeking a home remedy for a non-life threatening issue, like how to relieve pain from a mild sunburn.

Listed below are reputable websites that may be helpful to you in your quest for health information: 1 www.medlineplus.gov—sponsored by the National Institutes of Health and managed by the U.S. National Library of Medicine.

MedlinePlus provides information on more than 1,000 diseases and conditions in their “Health Topics” section, and links to trusted sources.

2 www.mayoclinic.org—a nonprofit organization committed to clinical practice, education and research providing expert, whole-person care to everyone who needs healing.

3 www.womenshealth.gov—its mission is to provide national leadership and coordination to improve the health of women and girls through policy, education, and model programs.

4 www.cdc.gov—Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-a public health agency dedicated to saving lives and protecting the health of Americans.

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For all other searches for health information, ask yourself the following questions: WHO?

Who runs the website and writes the content? What are their credentials? Can you trust them as an unbiased source?

WHAT?

What message does the site convey? Are they promising a miracle cure? Does it seem too good to be true?

WHEN?

When was the information posted or reviewed? Is it up-to-date or is the information years old?

WHERE?

Where is the source of the information provided? Is it based on scientific research?

5 www.healthfinder.gov—provides resources on a wide range of health topics selected from approximately 1,400 government and non-profit organizations to bring you the best, most reliable health information on the Internet.

WHY?

Why does the site exist? Is it selling something? Are there advertisements on the website?

The Internet is a tool that empowers us to educate ourselves, learn, grow and change—mentally, emotionally and physically. By understanding more about your online resources of health information, you are better equipped in the future to find the most accurate facts possible to help you live a long, healthy and happy life.

FOR DISEASE SPECIFIC WEBSITES, VISIT: Alzheimer’s Association— www.alz.org American Cancer Society— www.cancer.org American Diabetes Association— www.diabetes.org American Heart Association— www.heart.org American Lung Association— www.lung.org Arthritis Foundation— www.arthritis.org National Kidney Foundation— www.kidney.org National Stroke Association— www.stroke.org New York State Department of Health— www.health.ny.gov United States Department of Health & Human Services Mental Health— www.mentalhealth.gov United States Department of Health & Human Services Vaccines— www.vaccines.gov

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hen Anna Marie Cizenski heard that there was a dishwasher position available at Syracuse Home in 1975, she immediately applied for the job. “I was hired on the spot,” she says with a smile.

At the time, the not-for-profit organization was known as Syracuse Home—a residence for older women located in downtown Syracuse. “Back then, we had approximately 50 ladies living at the home. I quickly moved up from dishwasher to server.” Along with serving meals, Anna learned how to make soups, sandwiches and cookies.

Upon hiring, Anna Marie believed her position was a temporary job in her life. “I had every intention of attending business school. My plan was to work a secretarial job but the residents became such a big part of my life, they were the reason I stayed.”

In 1978, Syracuse Home relocated to its current home in Baldwinsville, New York. The organization nearly doubled in size, offering 80 beds to

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McHarrie Life rates b Employee ele

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YEARS OF SERVICE

“I worked with the residents, grew older with them, and learned so much from them along the way . . .” both elderly men and women. Anna Marie was promoted to Assistant Supervisor of the Dietary Department, and soon after married and settled in Baldwinsville to start her family.

One of her most cherished memories is how much she has loved the residents throughout the decades of

her life. “Our residents were always there to celebrate life’s milestones with me, and everyone,” she says.

“When I first got pregnant with my son, they were all so happy for me.”

Anna especially loved listening to the stories of their lives. “I am a people person, and both the residents and my coworkers were a big part of my life. We had a lot of fun together throughout the years.”

During her earlier years in the dietary department, many resident activities revolved around food, so Anna Marie and her staff enjoyed participating in the holiday events and special celebrations with the residents and their families. “I worked with the residents, grew older with them, and learned so much from them along the way,” she says.

Over time, as the healthcare needs of our aging population evolved and changed, Syracuse Home became a continuum of care community in 2009—offering retirement

FALL/WINTER 2017

living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, short-term rehabilitation and respite care on its beautiful 140-acre campus.

Currently, Anna Marie oversees the dietary department for the assisted living program at McHarrie Pointe, and will have completed 42 years of service by year-end.

She is very much looking forward to her retirement in January 2018, and spending more time with her family, especially her grandson, Landon.

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Invites You To the 16th annual Afternoon of Theater event

Presenting Sponsor:

Supporters: Horan Financial Services Laboratory Alliance Woodcock & Armani

Reception Sponsor:

Dessert Sponsor: Alzheimer’s Association of CNY

Media Sponsors: Underwriters: Bonadio Group ONEGROUP Yang-Patyi Law Firm

Eagle Newspapers Dupli

All proceeds benefit resident programs and services at McHarrie Life. This year’s production is:

The Wizard of Oz Sunday, December 3rd Patron Ticket: $50 each— includes a fabulous catered reception beginning at 12:45 p.m. and 2 p.m. matinee performance Contributor Ticket: $30 each— includes a 2 p.m. matinee performance To reserve your tickets, please contact Kelly O’Neill-Rossi, Director of Development & Marketing at 315-638-2521.

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Caregiver Stress Tips for Taking Care of By: Kristina Poff, B.S., MS Ed., Social Worker, Syracuse Home Heart racing, muddled thinking, insomnia, apathy, irritability: do any of these apply to you? Chances are, you may have recently experienced at least one of these physiological responses. These responses are products of stress. Many may use the word, “stress” to describe their daily lives and routines. We experience stress through our everyday activities, some identifiable and some not.

There are different types of stress, for example starting a new job is a different type of stress compared to a person undergoing major surgery. The generalized concept of stress is supported as a person’s feeling that something is out of their control and the future of it is undefined and unknown.

DEFINITION OF CAREGIVER: A caregiver has many meanings. Many people associate the term “caregiver” with the elderly but it is applicable across many areas

of life. The term caregiver may also include; caring for a spouse, adopted child, mother, father, brother, sister, uncle, friend or neighbor. A caregiver tends to focus on the emotional, mental, physical and financial well-being of another person.

IDENTIFYING STRESSORS: Caregiver stress may affect anyone in many ways such as; assisting them with daily needs, preparing meals, reminding them of things they may have forgotten to do and/or providing love and psychological support. In order to be a good caregiver, one must realize they need to take care of themselves before providing for others. Roles must not be forgotten, people often lose themselves in being a “caregiver,” and lose their prior established roles such as spouse, parent and/ or companion. This, in turn, often produces more stress for the one who is receiving the care due to feeling that sense of loss (role loss).

Ways to Cope With Stress: MAINTAIN A POSITIVE ATTITUDE: Evaluate your stressors and how to positively react to them. Find ways to accept the stressors that cannot change with stressors that can change. If these are profoundly affecting your life, assess how to reduce them.

LEARN TO SAY “NO”: Evaluate the favors that are asked of you. Decide which things you are able to do for others and things you are unable to do. Practice assertiveness and the ability to say, “No.” Saying “no” isn’t always easier to do, but may be the best decision for you.

FIND A SUPPORT SYSTEM: Reach out to your friends, family, counselor and/or religious leader to talk about your feelings. Sometimes people need to “vent” or express their feelings. Talking about your feelings can be soothing and relaxing. It is comforting to know you are supported by others.

LAUGH AND USE HUMOR: Socialize with friends or even go out to see a movie or comedy show. Find a new hobby or interest. Remember “play” is just as important as work.

SLOW DOWN AND GIVE YOURSELF “ME” TIME: Set realistic time frames on things you need to accomplish. Rushing to complete tasks adds to stress. Take time to rejuvenate and relax. Giving yourself this time will help you accomplish tasks more effectively.

EXERCISE AND NUTRITION: Exercise regularly and try to eat properly. Exercising is a great resource for battling chronic depression, increasing self-esteem, building confidence and letting off “steam.”

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Yourself

LEARN TO RELAX: Many different techniques are available to help manage stress. Meditation and yoga are great ways to relax. A useful relaxing technique is to think of an environment where you feel at peace. Some people may think of the beach, camping on a mountain or spending time with a loved one. Once a stress-free environment is identified, you may wish to use this location in the future to help you relax. Close your eyes and imagine that you are in this spot, imagine the sounds, smells, temperature that comes from this place. This will help you find peace when you experience stress.

At McHarrie Pointe Assisted Living we acknowledge that it is stressful while caring for those individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia. While we try to create an environment that embodies peace and tranquility, we acknowledge that behaviors such as restlessness, perseveration, crying, screaming and fidgeting can still happen even in the calmest of settings.

As these behaviors escalate, caregivers can become stressed and frustrated. This frustration can be sensed by the individual who is receiving your care. It is important to recognize when you are becoming stressed so that it does not impact the person you are caring for. Some strategies that work best in our environment to allow caregivers to minimize stress level are; deep breathing, counting to ten, alternating caregivers or re-approaching the person with a different task.

McHarrie Pointe strives to provide an environment that promotes overall well-being for staff, residents, and their families. To learn more information about assisted living, please contact Maggie Reap, Director of Residential Services at 315-638-2525.

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“Residents love McHarrie Towne’s sense of community and neighborhood. ” — Janet Dauley Altwarg Director of Residential Services

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ver 60 residents & staff celebrated McHarrie Towne’s 20th anniversary at the Towne Center this past August.

The theme of the party was “The Sweet Life” and offered a delicious array of desserts to celebrate this milestone year.

In 1997, McHarrie Towne initially built 14 beautiful, spacious one level homes as part of its new independent living community. Since then, it has expanded to 111 homes—and includes a recently expanded Towne Center—the hub of all resident activities, programs and events.

“By listening to the needs and desires from the residents of McHarrie Towne and the Baldwinsville community, we were able to create an expansive design that meshed well with our existing one,” says Janet Dauley Altwarg, Director of Residential Services at McHarrie Towne.

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M s e i t l a e r st on b e l e

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nniversary Residents love McHarrie Towne’s sense of community and neighborhood. “There is a resident social committee that organizes clambakes, New Year’s Eve parties, and monthly dining events.

Some of the other favorite activities offered by McHarrie Towne include; various outings, celebrations/parties, yoga and exercise classes,” says Altwarg.

McHarrie Towne is part of McHarrie Life Senior Community’s continuum of care which includes; assisted living and memory care at McHarrie Pointe, and skilled nursing care and short-term rehabilitation at Syracuse Home.

MCHARRIE LIFE FOUNDATION 7740 MEIGS ROAD BALDWINSVILLE, NY 13027

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

PAID BALDWINSVILLE NY PERMIT #6

Did You Know That q Just 8% of People Achieve Their New Year’s w Resolutions? e Here are five tips to help

START WITH SOMETHING SMALL—THEN BUILD FROM IT. If you want to run a marathon but haven’t run a step in your life, start out by training for a 5k—then expand your goals. Instead of giving up red meat entirely, start out by limiting it to just one meal a week. Achievable goals are so much more inspiring and satisfiable than restrictive, near-impossible ones.

WRITE DOWN YOUR RESOLUTIONS ON PAPER, AND HANG IT IN A VISIBLE PLACE IN YOUR HOME. It serves as a reminder throughout the year. Cross off each one as you accomplish it.

DON’T SET TOO MANY RESOLUTIONS—a list too long is harder to

you accomplish your resolutions every year

accomplish than a short, but life-changing list. Focus on a few important parts of your life that you would like to change the most. You can always add more to your list mid-year, since self-improvement isn’t confined to the start of a new year.

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BE SPECIFIC. It’s really easy to write down, “lose weight,” (Not

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SHARE YOUR RESOLUTIONS WITH CLOSE FRIENDS OR FAMILY.

surprisingly, this one holds the number one spot for New Year’s Resolutions!) but to succeed, it’s really important to detail your plan and ask yourself, “How will I do it?” Whether it’s joining a gym, limiting sweets or committing to a 30 minute walk every day—creating a plan will help you accomplish it.

This holds you more accountable to answer to someone vs. keeping those resolutions to yourself. It’s especially helpful if you’re sharing the same resolution with a partner, especially weight loss and fitness goals.