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Rogue Valley Manor - Winter 2007 |
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In our last issue of Outlook, we began to explore how the Rogue Valley Manor’s programs and services support successful aging. We explained how our splendid Dining Program ensures that residents enjoy delicious, healthful meals each day, and how our two on-campus Fitness Centers and extensive Wellness Programs support residents in their efforts to stay physically active and independent. We also talked about the many on-campus interest groups, seminars, and visiting scholars that make exercising the mind interesting and fun. In this issue, we’re going to cover three more elements that are essential to successful aging: keeping a positive attitude, nurturing one’s spirit, and staying connected to friends, family, and social groups. One of the best ways to stay connected to others and to the community at large is through volunteering. Studies show that seniors who volunteer derive great pleasure from giving back to their community. In the Rogue Valley, there are numerous organizations with which to serve. Many, many Manor residents volunteer—in fact, they comprise the largest cross section of senior volunteers in southern Oregon. The groups they work with include Dogs for the Deaf, Tax Aide, Court Appointed Special Assistance (which advocates for children), Rogue Valley Medical Center (where residents cuddle babies who are ill or premature), Mediation Works, and several others. Residents are especially lucky because the Manor has its own Community Services division that connects volunteers with local organizations in need of help. Community Services’ outreach programs include the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, which places volunteers at 98 non-profit organizations throughout Jackson County. It also directly oversees Call-A-Ride, the Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance program, the Caring Assistance with Resourceful Experience program, the Respite Care program, the Lunch Buddy program, TransMed, and the information booths at the Medford Airport and the County Courthouse. Staying connected to friends and family is also very easy to do at the Manor. Family members are always welcome, and it’s rare that you don’t see someone’s children and grandchildren visiting. Sunday Brunches in particular are a favorite time for family visits. And when it comes to making new friends or enjoying old friends, the Manor is the place to be! Another very important aspect of successful aging is nurturing one’s spirit, something that can mean very different things to different people. Some people nurture themselves by spending time with others in meaningful pursuits. Others find that immersing themselves in nature works best for them. Still others find what they need through their religion of choice or through meditation. Because the Manor offers such an expansive array of opportunities, residents have no trouble finding food for the soul. The last element to successful aging is keeping a positive attitude. While that is something that each individual must do for him or herself, the Manor, with everything it offers, helps residents maintain a cheerful attitude. As we all know, a good way to keep one’s attitude on the right track is to stay physically active, and the Manor offers an abundance of activities to choose from. Add to that the cornucopia of interpersonal connections that take place each day as residents dine together, play games together, indulge in hobbies together, and support one another in so many ways. And last, but certainly not least, residents tell us that the Manor staff members, with their friendly ways, ready smiles, and genuine interest in each resident’s well being, play a huge part in helping them stay optimistic.
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