A Mother’s Love

Posted by admin on May 15, 2012 in Spirit | 0 comments

We at Dogwood Forest of Buckhead Assisted Living in Atlanta celebrated our Mother’s Day joyously yesterday paying tribute to all of our great mom’s! And as I reflect on the mother’s role, I realize how difficult of a job it truly is. And yes, it is a job. Probably the most difficult of any job. However, this job simply compensates in love.

Not being a mother myself, I look at my mother and all the people in my life who are mothers, and I realize the sacrifices made. The passion and love involved. The time required. Many mothers have put their dreams aside for their families. At times, they have sacrificed their own aspirations. They love unconditionally despite any faults. They are the bond that mends the most broken of families. Mothers are so many things to their families:  caregivers, counselors, protectors, investigators and everything in between. They must truly be a jack of all trades maneuvering  through life like MacGyver.  She exemplifies strength in times of adversity, even when secretly she feels weak.  A mother will give life and limb for her family. This motherly protection transcends the human race to others species. The mother black bear would go up against any male bear that attempts to go near her cubs. The mother orangutan will even care for orphaned orangutan infants.

The bible first mentions the term mother in the book of Genesis 3:20 when Adam named his wife Eve, which means the mother of all living things. Eve is derived from the Hebrew language meaning “to breathe” or “have life.” Scholars say that Eve was given this name because she is the mother of all humanity. Eve’s role continues today.

I realize that until I become a mom, I would not truly understand a mothers love. But, I have seen a mother’s love through my mom and many of the other mom’s I have encountered over the years. A mother’s love is as good as it gets in this earthly rim. It is unconditional. It is probably the closest to 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 that any of us will ever experience. Our thought recognition of our mothers should exceed just one day in May. We should thank our mom’s for being mom’s every day of the year.

Happy Mother’s Day to all of our mom’s  yesterday, today, and every day.

^” Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.Love never fails…” (1 Corinthians 13:4-8)

Mrs. McDonald Celebrates 100 years

Posted by Kia Crawford on Apr 28, 2012 in Spirit | 0 comments

Longtime Atlanta resident and new centenarian, Mary Elizabeth “M.E” McDonald, celebrated her 100^th birthday in grand style April. Mrs. McDonald, who officially turned 100 on April 3, 2012, celebrated her big birthday with two parties.  The first party was hosted by family and friends at Dogwood Forest Assisted Living in Atlanta Ga. while the second was hosted by Dogwood Forest at the  location in Atlanta.  The party featured musical entertainers sponsored by Homestead Hospice and lunch catered by Dogwood Forest Assisted Living in Atlanta, Ga.

Mrs. McDonald’s Life

McDonald, originally from Memphis, TN, spent most of her years in Atlanta after her family moved to the city when she was 18. Being a firm believer in education, she went on to graduate from Oglethorpe University with a degree in home economics. She would take the skills she garnered in college and apply them to her life as mother to her only daughter, and wife to Alfred Turner McDonald. Although, Mr. McDonald was a graduate of Georgia Tech and a engineer, who Mrs. McDonald proudly proclaims was heavily involved in the Georgia 400 project, it was Mrs. McDonald who managed the home finances.  “My dad never paid a bill after he married mom,” said her daughter Catherine Eckford. “She did a really good job managing the entire household.”

The two met in 1935 on Auburn Avenue when Mr. McDonald was asked by his mother to check on a bake sale for his sister’s sorority which Mrs. McDonald was also a member. The two began a long romance and later married in 1950 after Mr. McDonald returned from World War II. With the flair of days long past, Mrs. McDonald would meet her husband with a scotch and soda cocktail upon his arrival home each evening says Eckford. “She would change her cloths and refresh her makeup and hair for dinner each night,” said Eckford. “She has always been a true Southern lady.” Mrs. McDonald also ironed her sheets and families undergarments and pajamas. “To this day, I still find it hard to sleep on wrinkled sheets, said Eckford. Mrs. McDonald also enjoyed playing the piano and gardening.  Eckford, who now resides in the family home, still takes care of the hydrangeas her father planted for mother many years ago.

Along with managing family finances, Mrs. McDonald handled all event planning for frequent special and social events complete with décor and food everyone raved about. She made fabulous southern fare and was especially known for her chicken salad, pies and biscuits. According to Eckford, “no one ever missed mom’s parties with her friends constantly proclaiming “M.E.’s food will be delicious.” Mrs. McDonald frequently hosted luncheons and teas at her home for eight of her closest friends. She has outlived them all.  But, Mrs. McDonald takes death in stride stating it is “it’s just a part of life.”

When asked why she thought she was fortunate to make it 100 years, Mrs. McDonald said simply, “The good Lord has been good to me. I trust God and take life easy.”

Brain Boot Camp

Posted by Kia Crawford on Apr 20, 2012 in Mind | 0 comments

At Dogwood Forest of Buckhead Assisted Living in Atlanta., we strive to engage every part of our residents mind, body, and soul. Key components of our programs focus on mental stimulation because we know that we age both physically and mentally. And while we might exercise other parts of the body, we often neglect our brains. Our brains keep us breathing, moving, functioning, and essentially maintaining a good quality of life. Dogwood Forest of Buckhead Assisted Living in Atlanta knows the importance of exercising and stimulating the brain. We have programs and activities specifically geared towards keeping the brain engaged. We must exercise our brains. The more we use our brains, the more we can protect against cognitive decline. Brain exercise helps to continuously build neurons for our body’s most vital organ. It is never too late for a senior living in Atlanta to work their brains. Here is how to get started today!

Exercising the Brain

• Challenge your brain: We need to keep our brains stimulated and the way we stimulate the brain is to give it new things to do.Play Scrabble, Suduko, chess or pick up the classic Rubiks cube. Challenging your brain is comparable to many brain boot camp.
• Try to do math without a calculator: Calculate in your head instead of relying on a calculator.
• Memorize your grocery list: This should be an engaging exercise, but don’t get too upset if you leave some of your groceries at the store.
• Listen to classical music: Get a little Bach in your life! Several research studies have shown that classical music has wonderful brain benefits.
• Exercise: Physical exercise is actually good for the brain because it helps to pump more blood towards the brain.

Check out this interesting video on brain health and physical exercise!

Stay tuned for more articles on brain exercise!

Henry and Music Therapy for Seniors

Posted by Kia Crawford on Apr 16, 2012 in Mind, Research, Spirit | 3 comments

There have been numerous studies in recent years concerning music therapy and Alzheimer’s disease. The affect of music therapy on people with cognitive disorders and diseases has been well documented. We at Dogwood Forest of Buckhead Assisted Living in Atlanta, Ga have used music with some of our residents through daily activities and have noticed a difference in engagement. Residents who are often reserved and less social will become alert and very engaged. The affect of music on seniors is quite remarkable. However, the story of Henry, a nursing home resident,was astonishing. Henry suffers from Alzheimer’s disease. He was isolated and relatively unresponsive. His speech- mostly incoherent. But, when given an i Pod with his favorite music, Henry is transformed. His brain seems activated and his spirit is engaged. Music therapy for Henry has brought back memories once lost in time. He remembers his favorite musician Cab Calloway and even sings his favorite tune. There have been numerous studies on the topic of music therapy, and Henry is proof that the power of music is indeed real.

Music Therapy: Both Art and Science

Music Therapy is uniquely different from other therapy’s in that is involves both art and science being both qualitative and quantitative in nature. Data is used to measure outcomes and is considered clinical. Music therapy can be prescribed by a physician, psychiatrist, or recommended by a psychologists, physical therapists, or occupational therapists.

Benefits of Music Therapy

• Improved awareness and concentration
• Improved memory and recollection
• Happier outlook on life
• Increases mobility and coordination
• Diminishes pain and improves recovery time
• Promotes relaxation and reduces stress
• Enhances interest levels and social interaction

Healthful Benefits of Red Wine

Posted by Kia Crawford on Mar 28, 2012 in Body, Research | 5 comments

Although some prefer not to indulge in alcohol, there are a few of us who may like to have a alcoholic beverage every once in a while. Perhaps the drink of choice is scotch- or rum with soda. Maybe you are more of a martini lover. However, what if I said a glass a day could go a long way? What if I said you can wash down your daily apple with a nice glass of Cabernet Sauvignon? Yes, red wine is actually good for you.

Red Wine

Red wine has been around for thousands of years. Wine was first fermented around 6,000 b.c. in Georgia- no not our state-but the region between Europe and Asia. Wine was known to be healthful then, and more scientific evidence is proof that we should drink red wine regularly today. With its warm and robust flavor, red wine is has several health benefits ranging from keeping your weight in check to fighting ovarian cancer. With a glass a day, you to can get in on the healthful benefits of red wine.

Benefits of Red Wine

Fights Memory Lost: The resveratrol in red wine helps to protect the brain against Alzheimer disease and dementia. Dementia and Alzheimer’s prevention is especially important to Dogwood Forest of Buckhead Assisted Living  in Atlanta.

Longevity: Not only does the resveratrol found in red wine help to protect against Alzheimer’s and dementia, but may also increase your life span. Researchers found that resveratrol helped to extend life in animal studies.

Fights Cancer: Red wine has been shown to fight against cancers such as ovarian, prostate, lung and breast cancers. When consumed in moderation (one to two glasses of red wine per day), researchers have found that red wine reduced the risk of lung cancer by 13%, prostate cancer by 60%, and ovarian cancer by as much as 50%. However, moderation is key because researchers also found that women who consumed more than 1-2 alcoholic beverages a day increased their risk of breast cancer.

Heart Healthy: The benefits of red wine for the heart has been well documented. The resveratrol and antioxidants in red white helps to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease

May Strengthen the Immune System: Researchers found that regular consumptions may help protect against colds and other infections.

Helps to get much needed Z’s: Red wine has melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland. This hormone controls your sleep patterns. The more melatonin, the better you sleep.

Regulates Blood Sugar and Cholesterol: It has been found, that one or two glasses of wine helps to decrease the chances of developing type 2 diabetes because red wine seems to reduce insulin resistance. Red wine also helps lower LDL cholesterol.

Helps to Keep Weight in Check: Studies have found that individuals who consumed wine moderately have slimmer waist lines than those who drink liquors. Studies also found that alcohol may make your body work harder to burn calories.

Other ways red wine has healthful benefits include controlling inflammation and boost estrogen levels which slows the destruction of bone.

Our residents at Dogwood Forest of Buckhead Assisted Living in Atlanta, Ga. know the health benefits of red wine. Now, you do too. So,  go and relax with a healthy glass of red wine.

Our Interview with Resident Dr. Wade Hammer

Posted by Kia Crawford on Mar 19, 2012 in Spirit | 2 comments

Where did you grow up?

Lakeland Florida

What are some of your favorite memories from your childhood?

Growing up in the sunshine state! I enjoyed sports, school, and fun in the sun.

What are some of your favorite memories from your adulthood?

Raising my family. Spending time with my beautiful wife who I miss so very much.  Serving my country in the military.

Did you have a profession? If so what industry were you in and what did you do?

I am an oral surgeon and used my skills in the private sector as well as in my military career.

Which accomplishments in your life do you feel most proud of?

I am most proud of being able to do good for others. I have tried to incorporate my faith in God into my daily life. I am proud of the wonderful family I have and all the blessings I continue to receive from them.

Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just graduating college?

Stay focused and positive.  Engage in community activities and stay involved in your church.

Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just starting a family?

Take the time to be with your family. Make them your priority!

What brought you to Dogwood Forest’s senior living community here in Buckhead, GA? Or Why did you choose Dogwood Forest?

Dogwood Forest was a great fit for me.  I am here for the excellent over all lifestyle and care offered.

How do you enjoy senior living here at Dogwood Forest of Buckhead, GA? 

I am comfortable and enjoy the amenities here at Dogwood Forest.

What is your favorite part of living at Dogwood?

Good food, morning devotional time, art for all, bingo…guess all the social activities.

Who is your best friend at Dogwood?

I enjoy so many folks here! Leila and Jim Ewing are good friends as is the life enrichment director, Allison Adams.

What We Eat Now Will Affect Us Later: Cutting Fat

Posted by Kia Crawford on Mar 13, 2012 in Body | 0 comments

You know how the old saying goes, “what we do now, will impact us later.” This phrase can be easily altered to read “what we eat now, will impact us later.” Are you eating the right things now to make your later years as healthful as possible?

Many of us here in Atlanta, Ga. are constantly fighting the battle of the belt. Although, some of us are health conscious overall, Atlanta, Ga. is not the known as the healthiest city in this country. We are in the South. Home of the potato pie and super sweet treats, great BBQ, and down home cooking. But, the according to CDC, we are not alone in this fight with our waistlines. The CDC reports that there are 72.5 million us who would be considered overweight.  Walk into any local health food store or see the numerous infomercials on television, and it may be easy to fathom 72.5 million Americans propelling a multi-billion dollar diet industry. Why do we struggle so much with weight control here in Atlanta, Ga and worldwide? One major contributor is the scarcity on time. We live in a hectic world. Our busy lives are consumed with taking the kids to extracurricular activities, taking care of work obligations, and simply put, being everything to everybody. This leaves us with little time for ourselves; which inevitably takes a toll on our eating habits. Consequently, our fast paced lives are complimented with fast and unhealthy foods.  Considering there are over 160,000 fast food restaurants in America, the convenience we all need is difficult to pass on. However, we must still consider the consequences of our actions. Would your older self thank you or spank you?

Inevitably, weather we are a senior living in Atlanta, Ga or senior adult traveling the world, our fast paced frantic lives with slow down in our later years. The kids will leave the nest, and we will retire from our current jobs or take on less demanding jobs. Some of us may even reside in a Dogwood Forest Assisted Living in Atlanta. Regardless, our bodies will change, and if we haven’t properly prepared our bodies, we could be playing catch up. Our elder health can suffer the consequences of the poor eating choices we made while we were younger. As we age, our lean muscle mass increases, but fat composition can increase.  Senior adults are known to loss body weight which also means muscle. We must get in the habit of eating foods that will keep our lean body mass, but minimize body fat.

As we age, the goal is to maintain the same nutrient level while decreasing caloric intake.

For instance, as we age it may be wise to switch to reduced fat milk instead of whole milk. The nutrients benefit will be the same, but with less calorie intake. Try replacing refined carbohydrates for complex carbohydrates which could take less stress off of circulating blood glucose. Also increase your fiber intake with healthy veggies, legumes, fruits, grains and nuts.  Here are more fat finding foods that will make a better you now, and later:

• Lean Meats (chicken, lean beef, bison, turkey, etc. ): Lean meats help to lower blood homocysteine levels which has been linked to Alzheimer’s when found in high levels. Lean meats contain vitamin B. Lean meats are also essential in cutting body fat.
• Leafy Greens and Vegetables: Leafy greens are nutrient superheros and slice body fat in half.  They are high in vitamin B, E, C, and K. K vitamins help with a myriad of problems such as protecting bones, preventing diabetes, regulating inflammation in those that suffer arthritis, regulating osteoporosis, and regulates blood clotting. This great vitamin can also reduce calcium buildup in arteries.
• Salmon: Salmon is a incredibly versatile fish and is super healthy for you. Salmon can help improve lean muscle and is heart healthy. Salmon is high in Omega 3′s which as we know has all types of healthful benefits. Salmon is also a great way to cut fat.
• Blueberries: Blueberries are an excellent source antioxidants and has been proven to slow cognitive decline.

There are so many foods to improve your overall health all while cutting fat. Do your research, and stay tune to this blog for more information on healthy eating and additional installments of  “What you eat now, can affect you later.” If we start healthy habits now, we will set our selves up for a  healthier future.

Tea: Reasons Why Seniors Should Go Green

Posted by Kia Crawford on Mar 5, 2012 in Body, Research | 0 comments

Green tea has been praised for its healthful benefits. The benefits are numerous as the tea is high in anti-oxidants which help to maintain healthy cells. Many studies have shown that regular consumption- around 3-5 cups per day- could increase energy levels, help with weight control and will decrease the chances of heart disease and certain cancers. The elderly can benefit from this wonderful and inexpensive wonder brew as well. A new Japanese study has shown that senior adults who consumed green tea regularly, tended to have significant low occurrences of depression, had more mental clarity and cognitive sharpness, a decrease in frailty, and a decrease in functional disability over time. Functional disability means activities of daily living that affects long term care. The study was conducted in Japan had 14,000 participants who were 65 years or older and were followed for 3 years using corresponding data on functional disability from the public Long-term Care Insurance database. Significant results were found for those that used green tea. Overall, seniors who used green tea also had more healthful diets, engaged in social activity with an overall positive lifestyle. The study, which was published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, found that green tea helped improve health in the later years in contrast to other teas such as black, and oolong teas .    Green tea has more polyphenols which are bioactive molecules. Specifically EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) which has been found to protect DNA from oxidative stress as well as an effective treatment for certain diseases such as HIV and certain cancer. Green tea has been known for healthful benefits in Japan for centuries, but now  a senior living here in Atlanta, Ga can reap the benefits as well. Weather you are living independently or in an assisted living in Atlanta, Ga, green tea can help you too. It has too many health benefits to pass on. If you do not care for the taste of green tea alone, add a little lemon or honey for extra flavor. Your body deserves it, now let’s drink up!

Our Interview with Resident Marilyn Balin

Posted by Kia Crawford on Feb 20, 2012 in Spirit | 2 comments

Where did you grow up?

New York

What are your favorite memories from childhood?

Time spent with my mother and grandmother. We all lived together, us three women!

What accomplishments in life are you most proud of?

My sons! The are wonderful men.

Did you have a profession?

My husband did not like the idea of me being out and about where I might catch the eye of other men. (She says with a smile)  I love art! I have always been an artist at heart. I attend art school.

Do you have any advice for new college grads?

Don’t be afraid to work hard!  Stay focused and in time you will reap the benefits of your efforts!

Any advice for those starting a family?

Women stay pretty for your man.  Tell him he’s smart and handsome, even when sometimes he’s not! (Again with a smile)

What brings you to Dogwood Forest’s assisted living community in Buckhead, GA?

My family wanted me to be closer and in a nice, friendly, caring environment.  So, here I am! (Smile)

What do you enjoy about assisted living here at Dogwood Forest’s Buckhead, GA Community?

All the fun, beautiful art work we do each week.  Also the morning devotional time is really a nice start to my day.  Bingo, always fun!  And the fresh salads in the dining room are so wonderful!

Who are your best friends at Dogwood?

I enjoy talking, so I love spending time at the dining table chatting with Gerry Volkman and Sharon LaChance…they are my table mates!

Our Interview with Resident Heidi Bradford

Posted by Kia Crawford on Feb 1, 2012 in Spirit | 3 comments

Where did you grow up?

New York State.

What are some of your favorite memories from your childhood?

I loved horseback riding very much. Summer camp was always fun too. I also loved skiing.

What are some of your favorite memories from your adulthood?

Raising my children would be to very top memory. I really enjoyed so much playing tennis on tennis teams.

Did you have a profession?

Medical Profession. I was a psychiatric nurse and I really enjoyed the depth of that kind of work.

Do you remember what was happening in your life during a significant event in US history such as WWII, Vietnam, Woodstock or any other historical events?

I remember when President Kennedy was shot. It was so moving to see his son, little John John salute the flag at his memorial service.

Which accomplishments in your life do you feel most proud?

Being a nurse, a mother, and tennis team captain and ski instructor.

Is there anything you’ve learned in life you wish to share with someone who is just graduating college?

Go into a field that you really really like otherwise it will just bring you down.

What brought you to Dogwood Forest’s senior living community here in Buckhead, GA? Or Why did you choose Dogwood Forest?

My daughter lives in the Atlanta area and thought it would be a good fit for me.

What is your favorite part of living at Dogwood?

I really enjoy the crafts like beading and various art projects very much.

Who is your best friend here at Dogwood’s senior living community in Buckhead, GA?

I would have to say Allison Adams our Life Enrichment Director and my dog Rusty. I also enjoy my friendship with Joanne Barbour our chef.