The Holiday Spirit Is Alive At Juniper Village Of Cape Coral

Getting into the “Spirit of the Holiday Season” wasn’t difficult with the help of Cape Coral Elementary Choir. Our residents were eagerly awaiting the arrival of our performers. Lorena, a retired school teacher that taught at Cape Elementary, was thrilled to hear they were performing at Juniper Village. She was given a front row seat as the honorable guest. Perhaps the fact that Lorena is the amazing age of 107 ½ might have contributed to the special guest treatment as well. Everyone was hypnotized with the beautiful voices singing gracefully throughout the room. Proud parents stood in the background as they watched this outstanding performance. We were asked to join along in singing some of the holiday songs. So we did proudly, but, sounded a little less harmonious with our unrehearsed voices. As the program came to a close, we graciously thanked the Choir Director, Rob Koch, and all of the families for allowing our residents to be recipients of such an amazing afternoon. We look forward to many more visits in the future.

December 2016 Events in Cape Coral, FL: Celebrate Little Things

Juniper Village nurtures wellbeing by encouraging an active body, an engaged mind and a fulfilled spirit. This month this custom is more evident than ever as we share our celebratory spirit - mind, body and soul. December is a month filled with holidays and celebrations, but at Juniper we like to kick it up a notch! All around the community all of your senses will be stimulated as you see traditional holiday décor, hear joyous laughter and singing, smell heavenly treats baking and taste them as well. We will celebrate all the joyous little things that make this time of year so special. Traditions both old and new will be honored. And through sharing our numerous cultures and traditions with each other we will learn more about each other, opening the door to deeper understanding.

This month take a moment to reflect on the little things that bring joy to your life. Reminisce about the traditions from your past and the new traditions you have started with your family. Celebrate the holiday season with us as we share a bit of ourselves with our annual cookie exchange and ethnic holiday celebrations. December is always an eventful month and we look forward to sharing it with you.

Our fabulous December 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral include our:

§  Holiday Tribute with Turner Talent as families and friends join us for what has become a holiday tradition at Juniper Village, as the fabulous Turner Talent Dancers once again entertain us with their many Christmas themed tributes that will be sure to have us longing for Christmases past, so come early, stay late and be sure to meet the entertainers following the show on December 9^th from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. (RSVP by December 7^th to 239-542-3121.)

§  Annual Christmas in the Courtyard because it’s remembering the little things that count, and in keeping with Juniper tradition, there is no better way to reflect on the past year than with friends and colleagues such as you, so please join us for a networking event and an opportunity to wish our community Partners in Caring a Merry Christmas, and remember to bring your business cards on December 13^th from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

We look forward to sharing our December 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral with you as you Celebrate Little Things.

November 2016 Events in Cape Coral, FL: Cherish the Journey

Each November we turn our attention to Family with our Alive In All Seasons Theme: Cherish the Journey. We have always enjoyed helping our residents chronical their individual life journeys through journaling. In addition to keeping track of the daily happenings in our lives, journaling has surprising health benefits as well. University of Texas at Austin psychologist and researcher James Pennebaker contends that regular journaling strengthens immune cells, called T-lymphocytes. He also believes that writing about stressful events helps you come to terms with them, thus reducing the impact of stress on your health. Other research indicates that journaling decreases the symptoms of asthma and rheumatoid arthritis. Scientific evidence also shows that writing your thoughts down can help clarify your thoughts and feelings, help you to know yourself better, reduce stress, and problem solve more effectively. An additional benefit of journaling is that you are leaving a legacy for future generations. Review your journal together! Reminiscing about the events in one’s life is a way to affirm who they are, what they’ve accomplished in life and relive happy times. So, pick up a pen and Cherish the Journey, the benefits are endless!

Join our journey through November as we honor and celebrate family and the journey of life with our autobiographical journaling. Help us support our greater community with our annual Food Drive and our on-site support groups. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Our fabulous November 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral include our:

§  Food Drive as we will be collecting non-perishable food items the entire month of November in support of the Harry Chapin Food Bank; donations can be dropped off in our front lobby, so join us throughout the month.

§  Virtual Dementia Tour as friends, families and professionals are invited join us for an open house event to help build a greater understanding of dementia by experiencing for yourself the physical and mental challenges those with dementia face and use the experience to provide better person-centered care, as in keeping with this month’s theme of families and cherishing the journey, we feel this is an ideal time to learn more about the physical and emotional effects Alzheimer’s and dementia take on our loved ones; this is sure to be an educating event for all, so join us on November 15^th from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. (RSVP by November 14^th to 239-542-3121.)

§  “Cherish the Journey” Dessert Bar as families and friends remember those cookies and candies that bring back cherished memories, such as Grandma’s chocolate chip cookies or Uncle Roy’s Buckeyes when you join as we reminisce and satisfy your sweet tooth at our delectable dessert bar on November 22^nd from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. (RSVPs appreciated but not necessary.)

We look forward to sharing our November 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral with you as you Cherish the Journey.

Our Witches Gather For Our Annual Booooo Time

Double, double toil and trouble was heard throughout the dining room. Yes, it was time for our annual Witches’ Tea Party. Our witches arrived in full attire. Of course valet parking was available for the ones that arrived on their brooms. Giggling filled the air and spells were shared from table to table. Past Halloween stories were told amongst each other. The howling of the wolves in the background and the screeching of the doors made this tea party so frightening that it sent shivers up and down our spines. The time had come to feast on our delicious “Finger” sandwiches. Everyone had seconds on the apple cider. Of course the desserts were delightful. It was agreed, at the end of the tea party, that perhaps next year we would invite the warlocks.

October 2016 Events in Cape Coral, FL: Show Your Colors

As we say good bye to Indian summer, we welcome the cooler air and slower pace of the autumn season. From warm apple cider, everything pumpkin and end of season hiking trips, there are so many reasons to enjoy autumn. William Cullen Bryant says it best, “Autumn, the year’s last, loveliest smile.” With the seasonal changes now in full swing we see fall flowers appearing where summer blooms once stood and leaves changing into vibrant shades of yellow, orange and red. The evening air has a slight chill and carries the scent of campfires, leaves and cinnamon spice. Our activities turn from swimming and baseball to raking leaves and football. Not only is Mother Nature showing her colors, but we begin to show our team colors with a focus on sports! Join us throughout the month as we bond over sporting events while cheering on our favorite teams, complete with tailgate parties and snacks.

Throughout October we will show our colors as we sponsor and support local sports teams. We will honor our associates who show their colors by “nurturing the spirit of life” with The Juniper Spirit awards. Alas, October would not be complete without celebrating the season with our annual Halloween Costume Party, which is open to ghosts and goblins of all ages. Join us this month and Show Your Colors!

Our fabulous October 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral include our:

§  Black Hatters Witches Tea Party as we are calling all witches, ghosts and goblins to attend our annual “Red Hatters” tea party in celebration of Halloween, so please join us and our special guest servers from Direct Access Home Health for tea and cookies and some good old-fashioned trick or treating fun, but don’t forget “black hats” are mandatory dress code for this event on October 12^th from 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm. (RSVP by Oct 10^th to 239-542-3121.)

§  7^th Annual Colorful Fall Festival because what better way to “Show Your Colors” for a day than to let the little kid in you out and have fun with face painting, water games, bounce house and let’s not forget the hotdogs, cotton candy, and popcorn; our festival has grown a lot over the years so if you have missed the last year or two, be sure to make time to join us on October 15^th from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm.

We look forward to sharing our October 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral with you as you Show Your Colors.

September 2016 Events in Cape Coral, FL: Spread Your Joy

As the air begins to cool and summer wanes, Juniper Village ends our “Stay Connected” series by recognizing Friendship and Joy. What is it that brings you joy? Is it the wet nose of a newborn pup? The smile of your first grandchild? The taste of a triple chocolate ice cream cone? Whatever it is we invite you to share that joy with others at Juniper Village this month.

Much attention has been paid to studies regarding the effects of stress on your health, but what about the effects of joy? The landmark “Nun Study,” as it's often known, revealed that positive emotion is correlated with longevity: 90% of the most cheerful quarter of nuns was alive at the age of eighty-five, whereas only 34% of the least cheerful quarter lived to that age. Similarly, 54% of the most cheerful fourth was alive at age ninety-four, versus 11% of the least cheerful. Of the 678 sisters in the original study about four dozen are still living. So go ahead, grab that triple chocolate cone it might just extend your life!

Join us this month as we celebrate friendship and staying connected with calendar events such as our annual daffodil planting and our home warming, birthday party and Best Friend initiatives.

Our fabulous September 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral include our:

§  Aging To Perfection Three-Part Program which inspires our senior population to continue to live life to the fullest, as our residents have enjoyed this program for more than four years so we have now opened it up to others, since just because you reach a certain age, doesn't mean that issues that affect our younger population stop being relevant, things such as bullying, addiction and peer pressure still exist, so join us to learn more on September 13^th, 20^th, and 27^th from 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm. (RSVP by September 9th to 239-542-3121.)

§  9th Annual “Comeoniwannameetcha Luau” because we always have surprises in store as we mix it up each year to spice up what has become a traditional favorite with our residents and families, so come dressed in your best Hawaiian attire and join our residents and staff for a tropical afternoon of fun on September 16^th from 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm. (RSVPs not required, but appreciated by September 15^th to 239-542-3121.)

We look forward to sharing our September 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral with you as you Spread Your Joy.

Music And Memories Make Memorable Moments

Juniper Village at Cape Coral is honored to be a part of the “Music & Memory” program. Our residents take great pleasure in this activity. Having them select the songs that are memorable, and at a very special time in their life, is incredible. The recollections of those particular times comes rolling back as if it were yesterday. I have been fortunate enough to video our residents when they first hear the music on their Ipods with their headphones. The reaction is indescribable, that it almost brings tears to your eyes. We have been fortunate enough to receive donations from our partners in caring from Ipods to headphones and itune cards. One of our family members recently watched some of the videos. She was so moved it brought her to tears. She asked what she could do to help with this program. Today Robin Rollinger came by and donated $200.00 in itune cards. This time I was the one crying. There are no words to describe the “THANK YOU” that we at Juniper can express. This generous gift will make many more of our residents also benefit from the “Music & Memory program.  It is special angels, like Robin, that allow success in this program to continue.

August 2016 Events in Cape Coral, FL: Breathe in Life

Each August we turn our focus to the environment by offering social events and educational opportunities on living a more environmentally sustainable life. By making caring choices and creating helpful habits we can all make a difference to our planet.

Did you know that an aluminum can may remain in its current condition in a landfill for up to 500 years? That same can, when recycled, can end up back on your grocer’s shelf in as little as two months. Recycling that aluminum can also saves energy. Enough energy, in fact, to power your television for three hours! Aluminum can be recycled over, and over and over again – without limit. Americans will use about 2.5 million plastic bottles every thirty minutes. If that bottle is not recycled it can spend the next 450 years or more in a landfill. A modern glass bottle will take about 4,000 years to biodegrade. Glass is 100% recyclable and can be recycled again, and again and again. So, the next time you are enjoying a delicious beverage, be conscious of the packaging and make the choice to recycle.

Join us this month as we promote the environment with a focus on our recycling programs – from annual rummage sales to shredding and more; our educational offerings will help you to support our environment and Breathe in Life!

Our fabulous August 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral include our:

§  Beauty is in the “Eye” of the Beholder Presentation with Dr. Rodney Smith, local optometrist who specializes in geriatric eye disorders, as he educates us on eye disorders of our senior population including macular degeneration and discusses how certain diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure have a significant impact on eye health on August 16^th from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. (Please RSVP by August 15^th to 239-542-3121.)

§  Veterans Aide and Attendance Presentation to learn about the new rules affecting individuals who will be applying for this Benefit Program this year with our special guest speaker, Ted Capuano, who will educate us on the new stricter financial and medical qualifications published by the Veterans Administration and other important things you need to know when applying for this benefit on August 23^rd from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm. (Please RSVP by August 22^nd to 239-542-3121.)

We look forward to sharing our August 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral with you as you Breathe in Life.

Volunteer's Story Left Us in Tears

Hi Everyone. My name is Linda and this is my story :

By now, you all know, that I was born with Muscular Dystrophy. This is a progressive neuro-muscular disease which causes severe weakness in the hands and legs, arms and feet. It also causes extreme loss of balance.

When I was little, I used to wonder why I couldn’t run, jump and play like all my friends. Through the years, as the disease has progressed, I have felt very sorry for myself and questioned God’s plan. Muscular Dystrophy has affected my life in so many ways. I was advised by my doctor not to have children as the chances were very high that this disease would be passed on to my children. Also, because of my weakness, it would be very hard for me to care for a child. Again, I questioned God and his purpose. As a matter of fact, my mother once told me that if she had known she had this disease she never would have had children. She had two and we both inherited the disease.

Finding MDA, which is the Muscular Dystrophy office in Ft. Myers, was a changing day in my life. That day I found my purpose, my passion and God’s plan. Not only has MDA provided me with material aids but they have provided me with great friendships and support. I have met so many family members, with muscular dystrophy, facing far more challenges than I. I have now come to realize God’s plan all along was to enable me to be one of the many mouthpieces to fundraise for the necessary research to finally cure this disease.

I firmly believe that in the not too distant future we will find a cure for the many types of this debilitating disease. I want to live in a world where no other parent has to bear the guilt of passing this crippling disease on to their child.

There are many other volunteers trying to find resources and together we are making a difference.

Having said all that, after a while, I felt the need to accomplish even more. It so happened that one of the ladies that worked in the MDA office had also worked at Juniper and knew Daisy. She said I should volunteer at Juniper Village as the residents and staff are so friendly and warm. I called Daisy and came in for an interview. Well, as you all know, once you meet Daisy you’re hooked. Her exuberance and enthusiasm is contagious. She also has compassion beyond measure. I immediately felt that this is where I belonged. I love every part of my volunteering from interviewing the new residents to computer work for Daisy as well as other duties. I love playing cards with George, exercising with Marjorie, playing bingo and poker and especially lunch.

When I walk thru those doors, I feel a calmness wash over me. The first person I usually see is Margaret, affectionately known as M&M, sitting by the front door. She always greets me with a big smile. Helen is embroidering and John is napping and the world is just as it should be.

I am very blessed to have a super supportive husband and as you can see he is not wasting away with me being here so often.

So, I want to thank you for welcoming me into your home and, I hope, into your hearts. I have met so many wonderful residents and staff and I will always treasure each and every one of your friendships. My husband’s motto is “happy wife, happy life” and, in part, because of Juniper Village I have a very happy and fulfilled life.

Thank you.

July 2016 Events in Cape Coral, FL: Stand in Integrity

Ah...the good old summer time filled with lazy, sunny days, ice cold treats, Independence Day celebrations, and get-togethers at the beach. Another sure indication of summer is our Alive in All Seasons theme of Volunteerism.

July is the perfect month to honor all of the many volunteers who contribute thousands of hours of time in service to our communities. From our four-legged volunteers to those of the two legged variety we are proud to say we receive more than 10,000 hours of precious time each year. We simply could not do it without all of your help, and this month we honor you. We will also be promoting the spirit of volunteerism by volunteering our time to help others. If you have some spare time on your hands consider joining us for a volunteer activity or better yet volunteer your time with us, we’d love to have you. What qualities make a good volunteer? Energy, passion, flexibility, creativity, reliability, commitment and perhaps most important of all – integrity.

Volunteerism benefits all parties involved. In addition to making new friends, volunteering also helps increase your self-confidence, provides a sense of purpose, combats depression and helps you stay physically healthy. Helping others also kindles happiness, as the London School of Economics found the more people volunteered, the happier they were.

In addition to volunteering opportunities, plan to join us during July for our summer celebrations and share our thanks as we honor those who Stand In Integrity with us.

Our fabulous July 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral include our:

§  Music & Memories “Alive Inside” Screening if you missed our first viewing of this inspirational and emotional story “Alive Inside” we will once again be screening this very powerful movie in our second floor community room; this film dramatically portrays the power of music and memory and the astounding effects that music has on our senior population and light refreshments will be served on July 7^th from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm. (RSVP by July 6^th to 239-542-3121.)

§  9th Annual Boogie Woogie Happy Hour so swing on over and enjoy the sounds of musicians Bob and Joan as they entertain us with their rendition of R&B songs from the past; also, in keeping with this month’s Juniper Village theme, “Volunteerism”, we will be collecting donations of sun block, hand sanitizer and chap stick, which will be delivered to our troops overseas by the Red Cross on July 15^th from 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm.

§  How Volunteering Changed My Life as we welcome our special guest speaker Linda, Juniper Village Connections Department volunteer, who suffers from Muscular Dystrophy and recently gave a very remarkable and touching speech to the members at the Lee County MDA about the life changing effect volunteering at our community has brought to her; she is honored to give an encore of her speech at our community so that the people whose lives she touches each day can hear her powerful story on July 19^th from 2:30 pm to 3:30 pm.

We look forward to sharing our July 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral with you as you Stand in Integrity.

Edible Arrangement Class

June has always been one of our favorite month here at Juniper Village. Why, you ask? This month our focus is all about “Food”. One of our many successful activities is “Creating Our Own Edible Arrangements” class. Our residents always look forward to this wonderful activity. We welcomed our guests and volunteers with open arms. Our Juniper clay coffee mugs were ready to be transformed into a work of art. Selecting the beautifully shaped fruits and cheeses to inset in our skewers without eating was a bit of a challenge. As our creations began to take form so were the smiles on our creator’s faces. We were proud of our masterpieces. Many THANKS to all that were generous with your time to help in this fun filled hour!!!

Happy 107th Birthday Lorena, we’re proud to call you our friend.

Lorena was born June 13^th, 1909 in Dunkirk, New York. She was an only child and her parents were very protective of her. She shared with me that she was not even allowed to ride a bicycle as they felt it was too dangerous. When Lorena was about 4 years old, she went to visit her friend. She saw a nub of a pencil on a table and decided to take it (without asking). When Lorena went home, and her mother saw what she had done, she make Lorena go back and return the pencil. Her friend’s mother chuckled when she confessed what she had done. She told her she could keep the pencil. Lorena shared with me after that day (103 years ago) she never took anything without it being offered to her. The pencil she now proudly owned made her feel excited about learning. In her heart, she felt this was her first feeling of wanting to be a teacher. At the age of 19, her dream had come true. Her annual income for the year was $1,000.00. The following year her salary, as well as all of the other teacher’s pay, was cut 10% because of the Great Depression.

One year Lorena and her friends had heard that Niagara Falls had frozen over. They decided to venture there and they walked on the falls. This is one time when Lorena can say she walked on water. The police were called so they hurried and left the scene before they were caught. Years later, Lorena met the love of her life, Alllie.  They were married and two years later they had a beautiful baby girl named Alicia. After teaching in Dunkirk for 37 years, it was time to move to Florida. Cape Coral was their new found home. The teaching bug was still in Lorena’s blood. She taught at Cape Coral’s only elementary school for 11 years. Now it was time to retire. However, Lorena continued to be very active in the community. One of the proudest moments of her life was when she was the Grand Marshal in the Disney World Parade on her 80^th birthday.

Another big celebration was about to take place in Lorena’s life. She was going to turn 100. A party was planned and many guests were invited. Lorena was concerned that she would receive gifts she did not need. We asked the guests, if they felt they needed to bring something, non-perishable food items or a monetary gift would gladly be accepted. Her gifts were donated to the Cape Coral Caring Center (our local food bank). To this day, Lorena can still tell you the amount of food in weight and also the dollar amount that was donated. With many of the celebrations we have been fortunate to share with Lorena here are a few more that come to mind. Sharing that she was not allowed to ride a bicycle as a child, I asked her “what about a motorcycle”? “Oh heavens no, my dear” was her reply. I asked her if she was up to the challenge and she agreed to give it a try.   Rolling Thunder of Naples offered their services for this event. They had a caravan of motorcycles lined up. Lorena even agreed for me to apply a temporary tattoo on her arm. She was thrilled after returning from her ride and asked about going to Tampa next time. Many of our residents were delighted and went for rides as well. Later that year Lorena was made an honorary member of Rolling Thunder. They presented her with a vest and had a wonderful ceremony.

Another year we asked our local Fire Department to come and help us celebrate her day. They came dressed in full gear along with a fire extinguisher to help put out the candles. She was pleased but assured them she was very capable of blowing out all of her candles on her own. After the celebration we took Lorena out to take photos. They asked her if she wanted to ride on the fire truck. She replied “No, the steps were too high for me to step up to”. One fireman asked her to put her arms around his neck (she was very pleased with that request). He lifted her up and placed her in the front seat of the truck. She went for a ride and when they returned the sirens and lights were on.

Her celebration last year was a littler simpler as she requested. We invited her favorite entertainer, Greg Miller. She shared she was flattered that he came to her birthday party. We had students from one of our local high school help us decorate. We blew up 106 balloons (with the assistance of a helium tank). Her family and close friends along with our residents and staff were honored to be part of this delightful and amazing celebration. Lorena is a kind and gentle soul. You can bet she will always greet you with a smile. Her attitude is positive and uplifting. We are so privileged to call her our friend. 

June 2016 Events in Cape Coral, FL: Live in Wellness

What is wellness? The National Wellness Institute defines wellness as "a conscious, self-directed and evolving process of achieving full potential." At Juniper we believe in fostering this definition of wellness everyday by offering programs and services that help our residents achieve their full potential. As we wind down our Healthy Aging series, this month we focus on Food by highlighting our H’Art and Soul of Dining Signature Program.

Throughout our lives the most important discussions, revelations, decisions and announcements have transpired around the dinner table. When company came over we caught up on the latest gossip over coffee and fresh baked goods. If you needed advice from your parents, it was often given while enjoying Mom’s delicious pot roast on a Sunday evening. Why should that be any different when you enter your retirement years in one of our communities?

With the kitchen often being the heart of the home, we have developed H’Art and Soul of Dining with this in mind. This program strives to impart spirited service, companionship and nourishment through sharing the joy of good food – just like home! Our dining program is designed to not only meet resident’s physical needs, but their emotional and social needs as well. We believe this program provides a perfect balance of nutritious and delicious food choices, comfortable atmosphere and ambiance, social interaction, cleanliness and a spirit of service.

Indulge with us this month as we focus on the “heart” of the home with program offerings centered on food and nutrition such as our hydration program with healthy snacks and juices and educational presentations by a dietitian. Join us in June as we Live in Wellness.

Our fabulous June 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral include our:

§  Third Annual Edible Floral Arrangements back by popular demand, we will once again learn the art of creating floral masterpieces with food, so please join us for this fun interactive event as we learn the nutritional value of the fruits we are using and understand how they are beneficial to our health, and each year we add a surprise or two, new fruits, cheeses, shapes, et cetera, so be sure to come and let’s put the professionals to shame on June 8th at 2:30 pm.

§  Food Around the World in keeping with tradition, please help us welcome our community partners in caring as they share favorite foods from around the world for our seventh anniversary event, where we will have even more variety than ever before, so come and enjoy cuisine and culture from across the globe on June 23rd at 2:30pm.

We look forward to sharing our June 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral with you as you Live in Wellness.

Kentucky Derby

The First Saturday of May was quickly sneaking up on us.  We worked diligently creating our hats. Our ladies chatted about going to horse races over the years. Helen even told us she bet on a horse and the odds were not in her favor. She smiled when she told us how much money she had won.  Everyone was very excited that May 8^th had finally arrived. Our ladies dressed so elegantly and their outfits matched their decorated hats. Even a few of our gentlemen wore their Stetson hats. Mint juleps were generously poured and our entertainer was happy to hear our residents sing along with him. The racing forms were passed out and everyone picked their favorite horse to win. After dinner we all gathered to watch the quickest race on earth. Cheers and screams were heard throughout the building. Finally it was over. Nyquist was the winner. Our winner’s names were proudly displayed. This was a memorable day for everyone. 

May 2016 Events in Cape Coral, FL: Grow Strong Daily

We all know that regular physical activity is great for overall health. But do we all understand the dangers in being inactive? Studies indicate that sedentary lifestyles are risky. For the most part, when older people lose their ability to do things on their own, it doesn't happen just because they've aged. It's usually because they're not active. Lack of physical activity also can lead to more visits to the doctor, more hospitalizations, and more use of medicines for a variety of illnesses. In recognition of those facts, Juniper nurtures wellbeing by encouraging an active body, an engaged mind and a fulfilled spirit through our innovative Signature Programs such as Connect4Life, Connections and H’Art and Soul of Dining.

We continue our Healthy Aging Series with a focus on Fitness. In the wise words of J.R.R., Tolkien, "All that is gold does not glitter, not all those who wander are lost; the old that is strong does not wither, deep roots are not reached by the frost." This month we will Grow Strong Daily so as to not wither, but to thrive as we develop strength in bodies, minds and spirits.

This month we invite you to join us as we Grow Strong Daily with activities such as our Daily Brain Builders, Wii, and our Brain Healthy Luncheon. We also invite you to expand your knowledge in our Healthy Aging Library.

Our fabulous May 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral include our:

§  Kentucky Derby Party as we host our annual Kentucky Derby Party equipped with pretty hats, horse racing and, of course, mint julips, so come see us come to life as we engage in our very own horse race Juniper style, and make bets on who will be the winner and just have some good ol’ Kentucky fun on May 7^th at 2:30 pm.

§  Eighth Annual Senior Olympics with the support of community partners in caring also known as our “Game Hosts” for the official lighting of the Olympic torch then let the games begin with prizes for the best senior game and best participant followed by a medal ceremony with awards, cheers, and healthy celebratory snacks on May 26^th at 2:00 pm.

We look forward to sharing our May 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral with you as you Grow Strong Daily.

Tai Chi Is For Me

As we celebrate this month with “Mental Fitness” we are proud to share our progress in our Tai Chi class. Our residents look forward to this rewarding program. They have seen the improvement in many ways and are benefiting from this low impact relaxing form of exercise. Dorothy is always the first one to arrive for class. She shared that she has memorized the movements and has found this class to be extremely valuable to her. Our instructor, Mark, has been remarkable with educating our residents on how much of an impact “Tai Chi” can have. It can relieve physical effects of stress and also promotes deep breathing. It also improves lower body and leg strength and can help with arthritis pain, not to mention it helps reduces blood pressure. We “Thank You” Mark for sharing your wisdom and knowledge with our residents. 

2015 Successful Outcomes

April 2016 Events in Cape Coral, FL: Believe in Yourself

Do you know that embracing a healthy lifestyle promotes brain health as well? This month we embark on our quarterly Alive in All Season theme of Healthy Aging: Let Wellbeing Thrive. Throughout April we will focus on brain health and encouraging you to Believe in Yourself. We will learn more about how physical health and exercise, diet and nutrition, cognitive activity, and social engagement can help keep both your body and brain healthy and potentially reduce your risk of cognitive decline. At the 2014 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference, results of a two-year clinical trial of older adults at risk for cognitive impairment showed that a combination of physical activity, nutritional guidance, cognitive training, social activities and management of heart health risk factors slowed cognitive decline. It’s never too late to make changes to achieve a healthier lifestyle.

Join us this month as we expand our knowledge of brain health and take steps to boost our brain health through our Healthy Brain series featuring our Daily Brain Builders and Wii Games designed to promote cognitive activity. Continue your research by perusing our Healthy Aging Resource Library, filled with volumes of information to help you and your loved ones age well. And, don’t forget to join us for our Brain Healthy Luncheon where we will nourish mind, body and soul. We look forward to sharing this month of healthful thinking and encouragement to Believe in Yourself – you can do this!

Our fabulous April 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral include our:

§  Crime and the Elderly Presentation as we welcome our special guest speaker from the Lee County Sheriff’s office to educate us on Elder Exploitation Awareness and Prevention because older adults are vulnerable to exploitation and targets for scams and fraud, and our local Sheriff’s office has developed a number of coalitions and programs to help combat these issues; this is definitely an eye opening topic that no one should miss, and this event is open to all Lee County residents, families, caregivers and area professionals; light refreshments will be served on April 11^th at 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm. (RSVP by April 6^th to 239-542-3121.)

§  Mind Blowing Motown & Martinis as we celebrate the beginning of Spring and enjoy the musical talents of our favorite Motown man, Greg Miller; this year we’re taking it up a notch, and having “The Band” join Greg for some mind blowing entertainment, and delicious appetizer’s and chocolate martinis will be served on April 29^th from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. (RSVP by April 26^th to 239-542-3121.)

We look forward to sharing our April 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral with you as you Believe in Yourself.

The Love Of Quilting Is Their Common Thread!

We felt very fortunate to once again be invited to receive our annual donations of the most beautiful quilts for our residents. To describe or show photos of the amazing work these dedicated women do, does not due justice. It is something you have to set your eyes on. Including our residents on this incredible event has been a tradition. As we entered the church, we were once again speechless. There were well over 400 quilts that were made with magical and loving hands. Our residents could not say enough to describe what they saw. These quilts were going to be donated to many different organizations. Feeling proud and honored to have been chosen a “Thank You” was given from us at Juniper Village. The funny story that was shared from Marjorie (a very proud resident of Juniper and at the age of 94) about her memories of her grandmother quilting left everyone laughing.  She proudly showed her quilt to everyone when returning home. We are eternally grateful for the generosity of the Cape Coral Quilters Guild.

March 2016 Events in Cape Coral, FL: Your Treasure is Within

As we bring down the curtain on our Creative Expressions series we focus this month on Drama. Juliette Binoche said, “I think acting is about forgetting yourself in order to give the best of yourself. It's passing through you more than you're creating it. You're not the flower, but the vase which holds the flower.”

Through dramatic performance we are able to forget about ourselves while becoming someone else, if only for a moment. We can be transported to another time, another place and another way of thinking. With all of our inhibitions set aside we focus this month on breaking out of our shells to share a bit of ourselves with wild abandon through our weekly drama clubs which will culminate in a fantastic performance or reading of dramatic prose. We invite you to join us in this enlightening journey of self-discovery through the magic of theater this month. We will also be attending theatrical performances around town, where we can let our inner critic loose. One last opportunity to become someone else is offered during our Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations, where everyone can be Irish for the day. Join us as we feast on traditional Irish foods such as corned beef and cabbage, soda bread, shepherd’s pie and more! Lastly, March would not be complete without honoring the dramatic achievements of others with our own Oscar Party. This month we invite you to let your inner star shine at Juniper Village.

Our fabulous March 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral include our:

§  Leprechauns and Rainbows Celebration as we invite our area professionals to join us as we celebrate St Patty’s Day the Juniper Way by serving Irish-themed beverages and treats, so wear your green as to avoid being pinched on March 12^th from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. (RSVP by March 10^th to 239-542-3131.)

§  Putting On The Perfect Face in keeping with Juniper’s monthly theme, “Performance” we all know we perform our best when we look our best, so please join us and our special guest cosmetic consultant, Gale Griswold of Nature’s Earth Cosmetics as she teaches us techniques and secrets of how to enhance our facial features using mineral based makeup, while appetizers and libations are served on March 26th at 5pm. (RSVP by March 23^rd to 239-542-3121.)

We look forward to sharing our March 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral with you as Your Treasure is Within.

Art Is In The Eye Of The Beholder

As we celebrate the month of Art at Juniper Village many can share their interpretation of what Art truly is. Here is one of our beholders version. Marion asked about conducting a monthly make-up class, titled “Make-up With Marion”. The date was settled and our ladies were excited. Marion set up her display of many items that we ladies use on a daily basis. She carefully explained the importance of each item and the amazing benefits from them. Next Marion asked for a volunteer to teach the proper way to apply the different types of make-up. Questions were asked by our ladies and Marion gladly answered them all. She also emphasized the importance of first impressions; we should take pride in our appearance. This was such a wonderful session and we are looking forward to our next class. Thank you Marion for a delightful hour.

February 2016 Events in Cape Coral, FL: Awaken Your Passion

In February we turn our Alive In All Seasons focus to art and invite you to awaken your passion with us. Leo Tolstoy defines the activity of art as “To evoke in oneself a feeling one has experienced, and... then, by means of movements, lines, colors, sounds or forms expressed in words, so to transmit that feeling.”

This month we will transmit our feelings using many different mediums to let other share in our experiences, feelings and passions. We will travel through art around the world and experience art as it is meant to be – inspirational and transformative. We will feel the cool breeze and smell the fragrant blossoms of Monet’s gardens in Giverny, France as we gaze upon In the Garden and the Water Lilies series. We will feel the angst of Vincent Van Gogh as we admire his passionate works such as Vase with Twelve Sunflowers and The Starry Night. We will also pour our passion into our own creations evoking memories of the past to share with the future.

Please join us on this journey as we visit local art museums and create our own art through weekly craft programs. Celebrate with us as we recognize Valentine’s Day with sweets for the sweet and Fat Tuesday foods and fun at our Mardi Gras party.

Our fabulous February 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral include our:

§  Turner Talents Awakens Our Passion as we invite all friends, families and colleagues to enjoy this spectacular tropical island themed performance featuring elaborate costumes, singing, a beautiful rendition of “Lovely Hula Hands” and many more surprises, then stay and meet our entertainers after the performance on February 12^th at 3:00 pm.

§  The Magic of Stuart for all partners in caring to come take an afternoon break and witness the wonders of Stuart The Magician to laugh and be amazed at the same time, as Stewart’s assistants steal the show, and without giving away any secrets, they are a sight to see in themselves on February 18^th at 2:00 pm. (Please RSVP to 239-542-3121 by Feb 17^th.)

We look forward to sharing our February 2016 events in Cape Coral, FL at Juniper Village at Cape Coral with you as we Awaken Your Passion.

Get Hip Don’t Slip

Eryn and Mary from Genesis in our Rehab Services spent the afternoon informing our residents on how to prevent falls. We learned about the different causes of falls along with what we could do to prevent them. Genesis Physical Therapist Mary Hanes shared with our residents how therapy works to prevent falls and also how it helps us after an accident occurs. She also informed us on the many therapy options that are available. Our residents also got a tour of the therapy office and all of the equipment that the therapists use. Eryn shared education on the physical, environmental, and behavioral factures that can increase a person’s risk of falling. We also discussed how a fear of falling can cause a downward spiral. Fear of falling decreases your physical activity which causes muscle weakness which can result in a fall. Our program ended with the information we need to know if we do fall. As a group we shared our own experiences and had a lively discussion. 

Juniper Village at Cape Coral Wins 2016 Best of Assisted Living Award

Juniper Village at Cape Coral, an assisted living community, was presented with a 2016 Best of Assisted Living Award for receiving consistently high ratings from residents and their families this past year on SeniorAdvisor.com, a premier ratings and reviews site for senior care and services nationwide.

Winners of the SeniorAdvisor.com Best of 2016 Awards represent the top tier of in-home care, assisted living, and other senior living providers, based on the online reviews written by seniors and their families. This exclusive designation places the winners in the top one percent of senior care providers according to those who matter most - the consumers.

Of the nearly 100,000 providers currently listed on SeniorAdvisor.com, about 1,000 have been recognized with this award.

Postings about Juniper Village at Cape Coral on Senior Advisor include, “It's a very nice place! The residents are happy and friendly, the staff is phenomenal, and they've got all sorts of great activities and outings. Their dining service is restaurant style, so you can pick what you'd like off of a menu for meals. You can tell the staff really care about the residents, they're treated with love and respect, and they really try to keep everyone active and engaged!”

And, “Words could not express what a loving, compassionate place to put a loved one! Our mom was in another facility in the Cape and this is by far a better place. The staff makes Juniper Village a place to call Home.”

"Families are increasingly looking to online reviews to find out who truly delivers great care for our

seniors, not just who claims to deliver great care," said Eric Seifert, President of SeniorAdvisor.com.

"Our SeniorAdvisor.com Awards program is all about celebrating the exceptional people who do just

that. We're honored to spread the word about these organizations whom families can entrust with the

care of their senior loved ones."

To qualify for inclusion in the Best of 2016 Awards, providers must have maintained an average overall rating of at least 4.5 stars while receiving three or more new reviews in 2015. 

Creating With Clay Class

Our residents always look forward to the “Clay Class” with Tanya. This project was going to be something new and different. An animal that is near and dear to our hearts here at Juniper Village. This time we were creating our very own giraffe. First step, we had to roll the clay and then form the body. Everyone looked at each other wondering how this pile of clay was going to transform into a giraffe. Everyone chatted and shared stories of the many types of crafts they had made over the years. Suddenly our creation was taking form. The legs had to be attached to the body. The neck was not going to be as long, but it would work.  We each made a beautiful giraffe. Each and every one of us. Success was all over our faces. Thank you Tanya for always making this class so much fun !!!!!