Inspiring Living your guide to
Summer 2013 A Publication of Shannondell at Valley Forge
CONTENT SUMMER 2013
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2 Shannondell Residents Share Inspiring Stories 6 Ask a Wellness Nurse 8 Shannondell Gardens: A Summer Tradition 10 Maintenance-Free Living
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12 Floor Plan Spotlight 14 Entertainment: Summer Highlights 16 Book Club Reads
16 www.shannondell.com
18 Computing In The Clouds 19 Letters To The Editor 1
Shannondell Residents Share Inspiring Stories
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nless you absolutely never turn on the television, chances are you’ve already been introduced to Shannondell residents Grace, Tom, Anita and John over the past few months if you live in the greater Philadelphia area. All four residents are spotlighted in ads currently airing on local Philadelphia television stations. And, all four have stories to tell about how living at Shannondell has inspired them to try new things, hone new skills and break out of their comfort zones. As a result, Grace, Tom, Anita and John, like many Shannondell residents, are living healthier, happier lives and feeling better about themselves compared to when they lived alone in their former homes. Take Grace, for instance. To hear Grace talk about creating artwork that starts with found objects collected on roadsides and construction sites, you wouldn’t believe that her finished works are displayed in art galleries and sold for purchase. You’d be wrong. Since moving to Shannondell and after losing her husband, Grace
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turned to her longtime appreciation of art for comfort. With support and encouragement from Maria, her Shannondell art teacher, Grace discovered a passion and talent to sculpt … turning and welding metal and other found objects into abstract works of art that intrigue, inspire … and sell. Chimes Grace, “You’re looking at a whole different ‘me’ today.” She goes on, “I didn’t have much confidence in my work before moving to Shannondell, meeting Maria and receiving encouragement from other residents. This past fall, I joined two other sculptors for a three-person show at The Shannondell Art Gallery. Before the show opened, we spoke to several hundred residents about our work. Afterwards, people came up and told me what an inspiration I was to them. That’s a good feeling.” That good feeling is shared by Tom, another Shannondell resident featured in current television ads. When Tom arrived at Shannondell, he had to use a cane for help getting around – the result of aging combined with an injury that required extensive rehab as a teenager. Part of this rehab included working out in a pool, an exercise that became a lifelong habit. So, when he arrived at Shannondell, the Aquatics Center became a second home for Tom. Swimming a mile every morning before sunrise, Tom took to his new home, well, like a duck to water. And, given that the fitness center was connected to the pool, Tom was soon introduced to Michelle, one of several exercise physiologists who help Shannondell residents develop and follow custom fitness programs. Soon after Tom added strength training to his daily swims, he discovered that he no longer needed his cane. Says Tom, “I thought I was pretty
Grace displays a recent “Gutter Guard” sculpture
To hear more from Tom, Grace and Anita and John, scan the QR code or, visit www.shannondell.com
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Shannondell Foundation Awards $32,000
O Between billiards, bridge and ballroom dancing, Anita & John stay busy and happy!
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fit before, but thanks to my fitness trainer at Shannondell, I’ve hit my stride once again.” Shannondell residents John and Anita also know a thing or two about hitting their stride. As roller-skating and dance partners since they were married, the couple loves staying on the move. So when John and Anita arrived at Shannondell, they admit feeling like two kids again. Says John, “Neither of us had ever gone to a gym while we were raising our family. Now, at Shannondell, we both swim in the indoor pool and go to fitness classes. Anita’s lost ten pounds.” But the pool and fitness center are not where John and Anita spend most of their time at Shannondell these days. That honor goes to the Billiards’ rooms in both the Ashcroft and Bradford clubhouses, Neither John nor Anita had ever shot pool before they moved to Shannondell. “Now, we’ve won the community co-ed billiards tournament so many times, they won’t let us play together any more,” says Anita. She adds, “It’s a little embarrassing, but it’s all for fun, and oh, do we have fun!” Feeling good about your accomplishments. Hitting your stride. Trying new things and loving every minute. These four residents’ stories are just a sampling of how life at Shannondell inspires friends and neighbors to do more, share more, celebrate more and reap the rewards of living a longer, healthier life.
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n May 16th, sixty-two deserving local students received a combined total of $32,000 in educational scholarships from The Foundation at Shannondell at The 3rd Annual Scholarship Awards Ceremony. Taking place at the Performing Arts Theater, students and their families, along with Shannondell residents, staff and corporate sponsors who help to support the Foundation, crowded the 500-seat theater to honor the accomplishments of these high school seniors. Part of lifelong learning, financial assistance and community outreach afforded by The Foundation at Shannondell, these annual scholarships are just one way that Shannondell residents, employees and their families give back to surrounding communities and neighbors in need.
Gabby Bieros receives the first Florence B. Fiori Public Health Scholarship for Health Education
Recipients of the 2013 Shannondell Foundation scholarships
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HEALTH I always feel better about myself with friends. What activities would you recommend to lift my mood?
Ask a Wellness Nurse Thanks to Shannondell wellness nurses Lynn, Crisa and Mary Jo for answering your questions.
Making new friends is a healthy habit – and one that’s especially encouraged at Shannondell. Friendship gives us a sense of security and self-worth and can brighten our days, no matter what we’re dealing with. Just as you made new friends each year in school as a child, you’ll find many ways to find friends at Shannondell. Whether through hobbies and classes – such as acting, book discussions, computer classes, concerts, lectures, painting, pottery or quilting – or activities like swimming, walking, aerobics and yoga, all you have to do is pick something you like to do, and you’re sure to find a kindred spirit!
I suffer from foot aches and pains that won’t go away. Help! As we grow older, our feet can change size and shape. If you’ve consulted with your doctor and your feet seem structurally OK (meaning no muscle or skeletal issues or diabetic neuropathy), your shoes may be the cause of your pain. Divide your shoes into three categories – every day casual, special occasion, and exercise shoes – and try on every pair you own. If any of the every day or exercise/walking shoes is the least bit uncomfortable, set those aside and avoid wearing them for a few weeks. If you wear a special occasion shoe more than once per week and it is uncomfortable, set it aside as well. You may find that your pain goes away. If not, see your doctor or physical therapist for more suggestions.
How much sun do aging adults need? I’m always wary of sunburn.
Everyone needs some fresh air and rays – not to mention the natural Vitamin D that sunlight provides – so older adults should make an effort to get outdoors as much as possible when weather permits. New research suggests that the benefits of short intervals of regular sun exposure may outweigh the risk of skin cancer. Don’t avoid the sun. Avoid getting sunburned. If you’re sun-sensitive, have had previous skin cancers, or are on medications that require you to avoid sunlight, don’t let that stop you. Arm yourself with a mineral-based sunscreen for your face, neck, arms and hands, wear breathable clothing (long sleeved shirts and pants in lightweight cottons), and a UV-blocking hat (see SunPrecautions.com). Consult with your doctor about your Vitamin D needs; a general recommendation for seniors is 600 IU/day.
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Shady walks remain a popular fitness activity.
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LIFESTYLE From The Shannondell Kitchens
Summer Basil Salad With Orzo & Zucchini
Shannondell Gardens:
A Summer Tradition A
t Shannondell, gardening has become an art. With their nearly 100 residenttended garden plots featuring more than 60 varieties of vegetables and flowers, residents are proud of work to beautify and “yum-ify” life here.
Rose gardening draws some of our most talented resident gardeners at Shannondell.
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There’s something blooming between the tomato patches and the roses, though, and it’s not a plant: it’s a social scene. “I’d always read that gardening was a great way to get outdoors and carve out some time and space to think
Ingredients while you dig,” says Joyce, a new Shannondell resident. “And that’s true. I raised three boys and also taught school for 40 years, and enjoyed few quiet moments until my husband and I moved to Shannondell and took up gardening. But what no one ever told me is that gardening is like a social club. Sure, you converse a little with your neighbor while you’re working on your plot, but the real fun begins when it’s time to share the bounty.” Pennsylvania summers may not be the longest in the country, but for gardeners, they’re plenty fruitful. Cucumbers, tomatoes, sweet and hot peppers, squash, green beans, even sweet corn – residents and staff share these vegetables and more at makeshift clubhouse markets gardeners set up when the crops start rolling in. As for the non-edible plants, Art, another Shannondell gardener, says his favorites are “knockout” roses and sunflowers, which are native to Pennsylvania. “The birds absolutely love the sunflowers,” he states. For garden inspiration, Shannondell residents visit
1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked 4 teaspoons olive oil, divided 2 zucchinis, quartered lengthwise & thinly sliced 12 fresh basil leaves, washed, torn & patted dry 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar 1 clove garlic, chopped Salt & ground black pepper to taste
Residents share growing tips and the latest family news in the Shannondell Gardens
nearby Longwood Gardens to discover flower and herb pairings. Says Joyce, “You get all these ideas at the Show. So, it’s easy to pick one or two things to bring back to try.”
She goes on, “But, the best part is Shannondell provides helpers for the tilling and heavy lifting, so you can really focus on the details – details that we’re just beginning to harvest.”
Preparation
Grow your own herbs at home Herbs can thrive in containers outside or inside, depending upon the amount of available natural light. If you’re a fan of basil, rosemary, thyme or tarragon, consider placing containers on a porch or patio that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Aloe, chamomile, mint, and parsley don’t mind the shade, but if growing them indoors, place them near a south-facing window for best results. Protect floors and furniture by setting holed containers on saucers, and be sure to ask your local hardware store or garden center for advice about the best plant food. For more information, see HerbGardening.com.
1. Cook orzo in lightly salted boiling water, stirring occasionally until cooked through but firm to the bite. Drain and spread onto a rimmed baking sheet. 2. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; stir zucchini and garlic until slightly tender (4 to 6 minutes). Season with salt and pepper. 3. Mix orzo, zucchini mixture, basil, vinegar, and remaining 1 teaspoon olive oil in a bowl; season with salt and pepper. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate to blend flavors. Bring to room temperature before serving.
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LIFESTYLE
Maintenance-Free Living At Shannondell
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art of living a longer, healthier life at Shannondell is the peace of mind that comes with never again having to fret over home maintenance, repairs and property taxes.
Just ask Ralph, a Shannondell resident from nearby Valley Forge. While weighing future living options for his wife and himself – before they moved to Shannondell – his air conditioning went out in his longtime family home in the heat of July. Two months later, following a thunderstorm, the roof over his garage started leaking. Says Ralph, “Being a firm believer that bad things comes in threes, the leaky roof was the last straw.” Had we not tarried until spring to make the decision to sell our house and move to Shannondell, we’d have another $20,000 in the bank. But like many in our shoes, at that point, we thought that waiting made more sense – Ha!”
“Staying Put”
CAN BE RISKY Remaining in your current home can cost you more than you think. Just take a look at the average home repair costs below.
Roof replacement Exterior painting (3,500 sq. ft. house) Replacement windows Deck replacement New heat & A/C system Annual lawn maintenance
$20,000 $5,500 $11,000 $5,000 $10,000 $2,500
Make this the summer you take just a few hours out of your day and come see Shannondell for yourself. There’s no pressure to do anything more than leave better informed about your options, pricing and current availability of homes. To schedule a private tour of Shannondell, call 610.728.5211 or 800.669.2318.
While major home repairs are no laughing matter, none are worries that Shannondell residents face, ever. From lawn maintenance and snow removal, housekeeping, plumbing, electrical, even changing light bulbs, Shannondell takes care of everything. So you, as a Shannondell resident, can spend time fretting over more important details …. like whether you’ll play billiards or go for a quick swim before dinner. Or, whether you’ll try your hand at wood carving or acting tomorrow. After all, isn’t that what living more inspired is all about … enjoying life where you have more control over how you spend your day and your money? At Shannondell, living maintenance-free is living worry-free – welcome news, indeed.
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SPACIOUS SPOTLIGHT One of the comments we often hear from first time visitors to Shannondell is, “We had no idea that Shannondell offers such spacious homes.” After all, they call it “downsizing” for good reason. But, with more than 40 distinct floor plans, including several two-bedroom homes with a covered balcony and living room (see Nesconset floor plan), Shannondell has a bounty of options for spreading out, including ample room for your most cherished possessions – even sewing machines, easels, grandfather clocks and your granddaughter’s doll house.
Nesconset floor plan (2 BR) Shannondell residents enjoy their covered balconies.
To schedule a private tour of Shannondell, call 610.728.5211 or 800.669.2318. 12 l www.shannondell.com
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ENTERTAINMENT
July 8
Al Harrison Dixieland Band An evening of that classic Dixieland sound.
Shannondell Performing Arts Theater
Shannondell Tappers
SUMMER HIGHLIGHTS Just a sampling of the more than 30 productions taking place at Shannondell this summer.
June 24
Shannondell Tappers: Dancin’ 2013! Our own Shannondell Tappers join the McHenry Dance Centre All-Stars as they present a rollicking rendition of St. Louis Blues March among other selections by McHenry students. Come and support our talented friends and neighbors on the Shannondell stage.
June 27
Shannondell Actors’ Studio Laughter and jokes among our own resident actors – it must be time for another delightful romp with the Shannondell Players. Only, this show will be unlike any that you’ve seen before, including Kurt as Mighty Casey and Josie as … you’ll see. Bring a good sense of humor for a great night of entertainment by fellow residents.
Opening July 19
King of Prussia Players present
The Wizard of Oz The Munchkins, yellow brick road, good & bad witches, Dorothy & Toto (too!) come alive on stage in the magical Land of Oz.
August 2
Songs for Every Taste Chloé Moore (Soprano)
From Opera to French Cabaret to Broadway, including songs by Edith Piaf.
August 19
Two on Tap: A Tribute To Song & Dance Melissa Giattino and Ron De Stefano, Broadway musical veterans, weave songs and fancy footwork together in this fast-paced performance of classics by Gershwin, Mercer, Berlin and others.
June 28
Porter, Gershwin & More Dominic Inferrera (Baritone)
Our favorite songs from the masters Porter, Gershwin, Rodgers and Loewe.
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Tickets for performances in the Shannondell
Performing Arts Theater for non-residents of Shannondell are available, but limited. To inquire about a particular show, please call 610.728.5211.
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Shannondell Book Club Reads: Whether you use an e-reader or an old-fashioned hardback book in your hands, reading is still one of America’s favorite pastimes. Book clubs are a great way to start discussions with new friends. In fact, at Shannondell, our Book Clubs are some of our most popular activities, and each month residents come together to discuss new fiction and nonfiction titles. Below, sample our two latest finds!
FICTION: The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman
After four harrowing years on the Western Front, Tom Sherbourne returns to Australia and takes a job as the lighthouse keeper on Janus Rock, nearly half a day’s journey from the coast. To this isolated island, Tom brings a young, bold, and loving wife, Isabel. Years later, after two miscarriages and one stillbirth, the grieving Isabel discovers a boat has washed up onshore carrying a dead man and a living baby. Tom wants to report the man and infant immediately. But Isabel insists the baby is a “gift from God,” and against Tom’s judgment, they claim the child as their own. When she is two, Tom and Isabel return to the mainland and are reminded that there are other people in the world. Their choice has devastated one of them.
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NONFICTION: The World Until Yesterday: What Can We Learn from Traditional Societies? By Jared Diamond
Most of us take for granted the features of our modern society, from air travel and telecommunications to literacy and obesity. Yet for nearly all of its six million years of existence, human society had none of these things. The World Until Yesterday provides a mesmerizing firsthand picture of the human past as it had been for millions of years— a past that has mostly vanished —and considers what the differences between that past and our present mean for our lives today. Jared Diamond’s most personal book to date, as he draws extensively from his decades of fieldwork in the Pacific islands, as well as evidence from Amazonian Indians, Inuit, Kalahari San people, and others.
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TECHNOLOGY
Computing In The Clouds (whatever that is)
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hink you know your Cumulus from your Cirrus? But what about your CrashPlan from your Dropbox? Cloud computing is as natural a progression in internet utilization as, well, cloud formation over bodies of water. Cloud computing entrusts services with a user’s data, software and computation over a network. In other words, using an internet connection, you access and utilize applications and storage for your computer files on someone else’s server (computer network) versus using/accessing/storing the same on your computer’s hard drive. The beauty about “cloud” computing is that it offers applications and utilities that you might not already own, increased storage capacity without adding a larger hard drive on your computer, and the ability to back-up your computer data to a secure (insert your own definition), offsite location, even while you’re actively working on files on your computer.
Next time: we’ll contrast and compare cloud-based backup solutions.
Letters to the Editors In reviewing your event guide on the Shannondell website, my wife and I are amazed at the number of shows in your Performing Arts Theater. We both love attending performances at the Kimmel but those trips are growing fewer and far between. The ability to walk from any Shannondell home to a nice dinner and a show is intriguing. Can you possibly include an interview with Jeffrey Uhlig (Performing Arts Director at Shannondell) in a future issue? Perry & Alva B. King of Prussia, PA
Editors: Great suggestion. Catching Jeffrey when he’s not performing with Philadelphia Orchestra musicians or Opera stars is always challenging but we’ll do our best. In the interim, why not be our guest for one of his performances at Shannondell this summer?
Spotlighted Mobile App: Med Reminder Pro ($2.99) This iTunes store app reminds those who can’t miss daily prescriptions to take their meds throughout the day. Includes reminders to take medications with or without meals, sounds an alarm when it’s time to take your med and logs late and missed intakes. Enables you to view, print and send your prescription intake history to your doctor.
Your recent article on spiffing up homes for younger buyers (Sprucing Up Your Home For Young Buyers: Time To Let Go) was timely. My children have been after me to start the downsizing process. I ended up using your tips – “neutralize and naturalize” – which my agent agreed were needed. In looking at my future living options, I’m looking forward to attending one of your Lunches with my daughter later this summer. Barbara N. West Chester, PA
Editors: Barbara, thanks. Given the increase in home values and home sales within the Philadelphia area this year, this summer is promising to be a great time to consider selling your home and moving to Shannondell. And the best news, as you and your daughter will learn at lunch, Shannondell will help you sell your home and move at no additional cost to you!
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Your Guide to Inspiring Living is a publication of Shannondell at Valley Forge, a continuing care retirement community. Nestled in the countryside of Audubon, PA, Shannondell is just down the road from Valley Forge Park, King of Prussia Mall and a short drive from the Main Line and Philadelphia.
www.shannondell.com Call 800.669.2318 or write us at: Shannondell / 10000 Shannondell Dr. Audubon, PA 19403 © 2013 Shannondell, Inc.
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From top left: residents in the woodworking shop admire the start on a turned bowl, kids enjoy the Aquatics Center as much as their grandparents, an early morning yoga class gets the kinks out, and finally, one of our lucky canine residents enjoys a rest during his daily walk.
Visit www.shannondell.com 10000 Shannondell Dr. • Audubon, PA 19403 • 800.669.2318 or 610.728.5211