Magnolia Manor Blog

Who doesn’t love to receive a valentine? From a friend, a secret admirer, or the long-time love of your life, valentines always bring moments of joy. But did you know you can be your own valentine? Yep, that’s why we celebrate American Heart Month in February. A healthy heart improves the quality and length of your life – and that means more valentine love to share and receive.

“It’s absolutely amazing!”

That’s the word from Maggie Rushing, Activities Director at our Americus Nursing Center. She’s talking about a broad-scope interactive technology she and her staff are using to help skilled nursing residents stretch their minds, bodies, and spirits – and have what sounds like a lot of fun doing it.

Senior living communities aren’t just for singles! Couples choose to move to Magnolia Manor while they are still healthy and active so they can focus on doing the things they love to do together in retirement. You might say that resident couples here at Magnolia Manor are the personification of independence.

Despite the fact that Americans have observed Breast Cancer Awareness Month every October for nearly four decades, the statistics remain saddening. While researchers and clinicians have made huge strides in detection and treatment, breast cancer remains the #2 cause of death among American women.

You are registered to vote, aren’t you? Seniors are notoriously strong when it comes to voting turnout, and you’re probably among those who are fully prepared for the general election in November. But what if you’ve recently moved to Georgia or to a different part of the state? Or you want to change your party affiliation?

This year, more than 268,000 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer – and more than 34,000 will die from it. With those numbers, it’s easy to understand that prostate cancer is the #2 cause of death among American men (lung cancer is #1). That’s why we “celebrate” September as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month.

Nobody wants to admit they can’t do everything for themselves, especially after a lifetime of independence. The thought of having to move from one’s own home to assisted living or a memory care community can be so daunting that some seniors simply choose denial. Everything is just fine, thanks.

Long-term care insurance can significantly impact your healthcare options as you age – certainly your ability to pay for whatever care you need. And chances are very good that you will need some type of advanced care. That’s the case for nearly 70% of adults aged 65 and older. And 20% of those seniors who need advanced care will require care for more than five years.

March is National Nutrition Month – no better time to talk about healthy eating! Proper nutrition is vital to fuel strong bodies and minds at any age, especially seniors. You may not realize that as you age your relationship with food changes. For one thing, your metabolism slows, which means you need fewer calories each day to energize your body. Aging also tends to diminish the sense of smell and taste, which can diminish interest in eating.

Power of attorney. It sounds official, and it is. A power of attorney, or POA, is a document that gives another person the legal right to make certain important decisions on your behalf. There is such a thing as a temporary POA, but a durable power of attorney is something every senior needs because it is your chance to direct your future.