Topeka Presbyterian Manor
“ Easy Street” by Bob Giffin, Topeka Presbyterian Manor Chaplain OCTOBER 2022
Presbyterian Manor shares mission with local senior organization Shepherd’s Center of Topeka is “committed to helping seniors remain active by offering educational, social, physical, and spiritual programs.” That makes the organization a natural partner for Topeka Presbyterian Manor. In August, John Tadlock and his staff created dozens of charcuterie Executive Director boxes for an Adventures in Learning program. Christie Patrick and Danica Loftin, marketing director, spoke to more than 100 Shepherd’s Center members gathered for their monthly Adventures in Learning Program. “We enjoy partnering with other organizations in the Topeka area,” Christie said. “It’s also a pleasure to connect with seniors in our community who are committed to lifelong learning, which is a value we share at Presbyterian Manor.” John Tadlock, director of dining services for Topeka Presbyterian Manor, received a shout-out in the Shepherd’s Center newsletter for the “wonderful boxes of assorted cheese, meat and vegetables” he prepared for the attendees. Shepherd’s Center – continued on page 3
Bob Giffin
Friends of mine, until they moved, lived on Easy Street – honest to goodness! I had thought that such a place was just wishful thinking but there they were – literally living on Easy Street. On the outside looking in, it may appear that all of our friends and co-workers are living the dream on Easy Street. Sometimes it appears that way because of the stress in our own lives. Relationships get rough, finances falter, health hurts, or work wearies. From time to time stress happens to everyone. Not all stress is bad for us. Some stress helps us get through our tough assignments or circumstances. However, left
Easy Street -continued on page 2
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Easy Street – continued from page 1 unchecked, stress can rob us of our joy and health. According to stress.org, stress is the #1 health problem in America today. Left unchecked, stress can quickly lead to irritability, anxiety, depression, headaches and insomnia. If you’re being honest with yourself, are you experiencing any of those? My favorite Prophet, Elijah, did. When the Lord found him on the run, afraid, worn out, and tired. Elijah said: “I have had enough, Lord…” (1 Kings 19:4, NIV). My favorite Sailor, Popeye, did. His stress tolerance was tapped out as he exclaimed: “That's all I can stands, I can't stands no more.” I can relate to Elijah and Popeye too! I recently snapped at my loving, totally innocent, wife because I was irritable – the result of a stress filled day. Yes, stress happens, and it happens to all of us. Moreover, research shows that
professions such as healthcare and social work have inherently higher levels of stress. The good news is, help and relief is available right now! Some immediate simple steps to try include: stop whatever you’re doing and take a short walk outside – soak up some of the beauty and majesty of Gods’ creation; take some slow, deep breaths; set your cell phone aside for a while; reduce your caffeine intake; do that “something” that makes you
smile – even if just for a few minutes! Do something positive to give yourself a mental and physical break. Be a “Nike” person and “just do it!” Taking some simple steps to take control of stress may not land you on Easy Street, but they’ll put you on the path to it. Resources: www.healthline.com/nutrition/16-waysrelieve-stress-anxiety; (January 2022). www.stress.org u
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Community Matters 785-272-6510 ◆ Fax: 785-272-0496 4712 S.W. Sixth Ave. Topeka, KS 66606-2284 TopekaPresbyterianManor.org
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COMMUNITY MATTERS | October 2022
is published monthly for residents and friends of Topeka Presbyterian Manor by Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America, Inc., a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization.
To submit or suggest articles: dloftin@pmma.org Christie Patrick, executive director Danica Loftin, marketing director
OUR MISSION: To provide quality senior services guided by Christian values.
Shepherd’s Center – continued from page 1
Cura Hospitality Director of Dining Services John Tadlock poses with the dozens of charcuterie boxes he and his staff assembled for an Adventures in Learning program with Shepherd’s Center of Topeka, an organization that helps seniors stay active and connected.
Christie and Danica also provided six door prizes for the event, one of many opportunities the organization provides for seniors to get together. Shepherd’s Center also hosts a monthly book club, and members can also join the MAP Group (Memoirs, Ancestry Photos) or the Family History Writing Group. Avid game-players might be interested in gathering for regular bridge, canasta or dominoes.
traveling with others in their age group. The Presbyterian Manor presentation was a hit, and Danica said she hopes it will lead to more collaborations with Shepherd’s Center.
“It was great to hear about Presbyterian Manor and to reconnect,” read the Shepherd’s Center newsletter. u
The organization also organizes day trips and longer getaways with seniors who are interested in
Topeka Presbyterian Manor | A PMMA COMMUNITY
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4712 S.W. Sixth Ave. Topeka, KS 66606-2284 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
Get Moving for Active Aging Week Get up and get around…and observe Active Aging Week from October 3 – 9.
It’s not too late to try something new
Active Aging Week started in 2003 by the International Council on Active Aging® and it’s meant to challenge society’s idea of life in our later years. Instead, the week showcases the capabilities of older adults who can live full lives in all areas – physical, social, spiritual, emotional, intellectual, vocational and environmental. It also promotes the benefits of active lifestyles. If you want to observe this week – all you have to do is get moving and doing things.
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COMMUNITY MATTERS | October 2022
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Find some friends and organize a walk around your community Participate in a fitness class or do a fitness video Play board games Take an art class or start a new hobby Sing or dance And much more…. u