Newsletter for Active Older Adults
I want to begin by thanking all of you for your patience and understanding throughout October and November. I know it has been frustrating to go without a newsletter and to see reduced programming, and I truly appreciate you hanging in there with me. I’ve had some personal matters to navigate recently, but I never want them to affect the work I do here at the Y. Your sympathy cards, love, and support have meant the world to me—thank you from the bottom of my heart.
I also want to share a few updates happening around the Y. Several full-time staff members have moved on to new opportunities, so you may notice some new faces. If you get the chance, please welcome:
Jim Noll, our new Aquatics Director
Jessica Zackasee, our new Maintenance Technician
Andrea Frank, our new Health & Wellness Director
Brandon Bussey, who is serving as our Interim Executive Director They are all wonderful additions to our leadership team here at the Lake YMCA, and we are excited to have them join our Y family!
Lastly, the newsletter will look a bit different in the new year. I’m planning to spruce it up, and the biggest change is that it will transition to a quarterly format instead of monthly. This will give me more time to develop meaningful programming for our AOA community, as well as balance my other responsibilities at the Y.
I’m looking forward to another adventure-filled year with our amazing community. I pray that each of you has a healthy, joyful holiday season and a very happy new year.
Onward to 2026!
Succulents Galore! We always have so much fun! Succulents Galore! We always have so much fun!
Active Older Adults
Senior Lunch & Learn:
Lucille Ball w/Lori
Noebe
Senior Lunch & Learn:
Lucille Ball w/Lori
Noebe
Older Adults
Newsletter for Active Older Adults
What
Are the Kids Saying? A Guide to Modern Slang (Just in Time for the Holiday Dinner Table)
By Silver Sneakers | November 14, 2025
If you ’ ve ever sat at the holiday dinner table and wondered what the kids are talking about, you ’ re not alone. Between words like rizz, bet, and no cap, modern slang can feel like a whole new language. But don’t worry — we ’ ve got you covered. Understanding a few of the latest phrases can help you connect, share a laugh, and maybe even impress your grandkids this holiday season.
Why Slang Changes So Fast
Every generation has its own lingo. (Remember when groovy or rad were all the rage?) Today’s slang often spreads online, where short videos and social media trends make new phrases catch on in a flash. The good news: You don’t need to know everything to stay in the loop. Just learning a few key terms shows your grandkids that you care about their world and that you ’ re still as cool as ever.
A Quick Guide to What the Kids Are Saying
Here are a few popular terms you might hear this year — and what they actually mean:
for Active Older Adults
Slang
What Are the Kids Saying? A Guide to Modern Slang (Just
in Time for the Holiday Dinner Table)
By Silver Sneakers | November 14, 2025
Translation Example
Ate
Core
Turned out really great, did
“Your holiday photos ate.”
Fully embodies something. Parties and gatherings are
Flex Brag, can be used as a noun
Goat / Goated
Rizz
Bet
No cap
Delulu
Slay
It’s giving
Mid
Acronym for “Greatest Of All
Short for “charisma” it
Means “OK” or “you got it.”
Means “for real” or “I’m not
Short for “delusional,”
Finished holiday shopping by
“That new recipe goated.”
“Grandpa’s still got rizz!”
“Want to help me set the
“This stuffing is amazing, no
Expecting snow in Florida is
To do something really well or “Nice holiday sweater, honey!
When it reminds you of “It’s giving Christmas
When something is so-so, or just
“How did your team do this season?”
“Just mid Didn’t make Lowkey Subtly or quietly.
Mood
Sus
“Even though it’s played too
A relatable feeling or “That nap after dinner? Big
Short for “suspicious.”
“There’s a piece of pie missing..
Newsletter for Active Older Adults
What
Are the Kids Saying? A Guide to Modern Slang (Just in Time for the Holiday Dinner Table)
By Silver Sneakers | November 14, 2025
It’s fun to sprinkle in a few modern slang words — but don’t feel pressured to use them perfectly. The real goal is connection, not perfection. Your grandkids will appreciate that you ’ re taking an interest.
A few tips:
Ask what something means. Kids love being the expert.
Laugh together. Slang is meant to be playful!
Share your own throwback slang. Tell them what “the bee’s knees” or “far out” used to mean. They’ll get a kick out of it.
Bringing It All Together
So, this year when the kids drop a new phrase at the dinner table, you’ll be ready. Whether you slay your dessert recipe or bring major rizz to the gift exchange, you’ll fit right in.
After all, language, like family, keeps evolving. Staying curious and having fun is what keeps you young. Keep the Conversation Going!
for Active Older Adults
for Active Older Adults
for Active Older Adults
Older Adults
Adults
Older Adults
Older Adults
Adults
Active Older Adults
Older Adults
Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Swirl Bark
Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Bark with Sea Salt is so easy to make, just 3 ingredients! It makes a great homemade holiday gift!
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients
8 ounces Lily's sugar free dark chocolate baking bar* (from two 4 ounce bars)
2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter (I used Skippy) a few pinches of coarse sea salt (such as Maldon)
Instructions
1.Line a small 9 x 13-inch sheet pan with parchment paper. Set aside.
2.Chop the chocolate with a knife. Melt the chocolate in the microwave, stirring the chocolate every 30 seconds to help avoid seizing. Once melted and smooth, set aside. This took me about 1 1/2 minutes, but will vary with every microwave.
3.Melt the peanut butter in the microwave in 20-second increments, stirring after each increment, until completely smooth, about 4o seconds.
4.Pour chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading with a rubber spatula into a smooth layer.
5.Drizzle melted peanut butter mixture in parallel lines on top of chocolate. Run a toothpick or knife through to form swirls.
6.Top with a pinch or two of coarse sea salt.
7.Allow the bark to set completely in the refrigerator, about 30 minutes.
8.Once hardened, break into pieces as large or as small as you want.
9.Keep bark stored in an airtight container refrigerated or in a in a cool, dry place for up to 1 week.
Notes
*I chose Lily's baking bar because it's sugar free. If using another chocolate bar, adjust n.i. and points.
Nutrition
Serving: 1ounce, Calories: 144kcal, Carbohydrates: 17g, Protein: 3g, Fat: 12g, Saturated Fat: 6.5g, Cholesterol: 17mg, Sodium: 19mg, Fiber: 8g, Sugar: 0.5g
- WW Points: 6
for Active Older Adults
The Best House Slippers for Comfort, Support, and Fall Prevention
By SilverSneakers | September 17, 2025
How the right indoor footwear can help you stay steady, protect your joints, and feel your best at home.
When you think about fall prevention, you might picture grab bars in the bathroom or removing clutter from the floor. But here’s one important and often overlooked factor: what you wear on your feet indoors.
A good pair of house slippers isn’t just about comfort. The right pair can give you the support you need, help with stability, and reduce your risk of slips, trips, and falls.
Why Your Footwear Matters Indoors
Even at home, your feet are working hard. Supportive footwear helps:
Stabilize your steps by improving balance and alignment. Protect against slips with non-skid soles. Reduce joint strain by cushioning your heels and arches.
Keep your feet warm and comfortable, which can help with circulation.
Walking around in socks, worn-out slippers, or bare feet can make you more likely to slip or twist an ankle – especially on hardwood, tile, or linoleum floors. Features to Look for in Safe, Supportive Slippers When shopping for house slippers, keep these features in mind:
1.Non-Slip Soles
Look for rubber or slip-resistant outsoles that grip the floor. Avoid smooth or fabric-only soles that can slide on hard surfaces.
2. Firm, Cushioned Footbed
Your slippers should feel comfortable but also give your arches and heels real support. Memory foam or orthopedic insoles are great options.
3. Secure Fit
Choose styles that stay on your feet like those with adjustable straps, closed backs, or a snug elastic fit. Loose, floppy slippers are trip hazards.
4. Closed-Toe Design
A closed toe helps protect your feet from bumps, stubbed toes, or dropped objects.
5. Easy On and Off (But Not Too Easy)
If you have trouble bending or reaching your feet, look for designs with a wide opening or Velcro closure, but still make sure they stay put when you walk.
Styles That Work Well for Older Adults
Slipper shoes: These look like regular shoes but are made for indoor comfort. Moccasin-style slippers: Provide warmth, coverage, and a snug fit. Adjustable slippers: Velcro or strap designs are great if your feet swell.
Slipper Safety Tips
Replace slippers when soles wear down or fabric stretches out. Keep floors clean and dry – even the best slippers can’t grip a wet surface. Avoid walking in socks only; they can be extra slippery. Have a second pair of slippers for different seasons – lightweight and breathable for summer, warm and insulated for winter. Your indoor footwear is part of your fall prevention toolkit. Choosing slippers that combine comfort, support, and safety can make a big difference in your day-to-day stability. Think of them as a small investment in staying steady, active, and confident at home.
Newsletter for Active Older Adults
Equipment
9 x 9-inch baking dish
=Ingredients FOR THE FILLING:
Sweet Potato Casserole with Praline Topping
This healthy Vanilla Sweet Potato Casserole with roasted, mashed sweet potatoes and a praline topping is a wonderful Thanksgiving side dish. Yield: 10 servings
2 1/2 pounds sweet potatoes (about 4 to 6 medium total*)
Olive oil spray
1/2 cup fat free milk (or dairy-free milk alternative)
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 large eggs (beaten) FOR THE TOPPING:
2/3 cup pecans or walnuts (coarsely chopped )
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
1/4 cup quick-cooking rolled oats (or gluten-free oats)
3 tablespoons brown monk fruit sweetener (or brown sugar)
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
2 tablespoons melted butter (or coconut oil to make it dairy-free)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Prick potatoes with a fork and place on a sheet pan.
1.Bake until tender, about 1 to 1 hour and 15 minutes. Set aside and let cool enough to handle.
2.Meanwhile spray a 9 x 9 inch baking dish, 9 inch deep pie dish, or or 2 quart safe baking dish and set aside.
3.Remove all the potatoes from the skin and mash with a fork or potato masher in a large mixing bowl.
4.Add the milk, maple syrup, salt, spices and eggs to the bowl and beat with a wooden spoon until uniform in texture.
5.Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
6.In a medium mixing bowl, combine the nuts, flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon and salt.
7.Stir in the butter or coconut oil and mix well.
8.Sprinkle the mixture evenly across the top of the sweet potato mixture.
9.Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for at least 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Serving: 2/3 cup, Calories: 218kcal, Carbohydrates: 35g, Protein: 4.5g, Fat: 8.5g, Saturated Fat: 2.5g, Cholesterol: 43.5mg, Sodium: 153.5mg, Fiber: 4.5g, Sugar: 9.5g - WW Points: 4
Laughs!!
What falls but never gets hurt? Snow!.
Where do snowmen keep their money? Snowbanks
Why can’t you trust snowmen? They can be real flakes.
Why did the snowman call his dog Frost? Because Frost bites!
What was the snowman doing in the vegetable store? Picking his nose.
What did the police officer say when he saw the snowman stealing? Freeze!
What does a snowman use to make his bed? He used fresh sheets of ice and a thick blanket of snow.
for Active Older Adults
Hidden Picture Puzzle
for Active Older Adults
Adults
Hartville Senior Center at Windham Bridge
Hartville Senior Center at Windham Bridge
