Author: hawthornseniorliving

July 20, 2022 | Senior Living | by hawthornseniorliving

Defining the Job Roles in a Senior Living Community

Behind the Scenes: Understanding the Vital Job Roles in a Senior Living Community

It takes a diverse group of team members, all dedicated to serving and working with seniors, to make a senior living community run smoothly and successfully. Understanding the different positions can help when you are researching senior living communities for you or a loved one. That way you know who will be most suitable to answer your various questions. We thought it might be helpful to define the job roles typically found in a senior living community and how each role advances the community’s mission.

Management

Senior living communities need leaders who can inspire team members, empower residents and create a relationship built on trust with family members. These leaders have an education background working in senior living or health care, as well as extensive experience in other roles throughout the field. Their role is to ensure that the overall senior care experience is met and exceeded.

In our independent living communities, Hawthorn residents enjoy leadership in the form of manager and assistant manager teams or an individual general manager and assistant general manager. Management teams work together to guide the daily operations of the community and exceed resident expectations. You may also see management team members dancing with residents at a happy hour event, pouring coffee during breakfast or speaking at a community support group. Our management teams are well versed in all things senior living and love being part of community life.

Culinary

In most senior living communities, enjoying a meal with friends and neighbors is a staple of the daily routine. Residents gather to eat chef-prepared meals, share stories and get to know their neighbors. It requires the effort and passion of a full culinary department to put three meals per day on the table and create lively dining experiences for residents with varying tastes and nutritional needs.

At Hawthorn communities, the culinary team is led by the executive chef and includes sous chefs, dining room servers, dishwashers and other essential team members who contribute to a positive dining experience three times daily. Residents and their family members get to know servers, chefs and other dining team members quite well, and the dining team always loves hearing about residents’ favorite personal recipes.

Activity Coordinators

The senior community lifestyle is all about access to amenities and services that support wellness, health goals and happiness. It’s also about expanding your social circle, trying new things and pursuing interests. The activity coordinators at senior living communities create a calendar full of opportunities, events, classes and excursions that give residents the chance to create their perfect day.

Activity coordinators plan, prepare for and execute events for residents. They are the ones who book a mariachi band for Cinco de Mayo, work with the dining team to create a perfect menu for a summer barbecue and connect two residents who love to play pickleball. These team members are always seeking ideas from residents and finding new ways to surprise them with a personalized experience.

Transportation Team

Transportation team members serve to enrich residents’ lives. These drivers are not only safe on the road as they get residents from one place to another, but they also are typically quite fun, making any trip extra special.

At all Hawthorn communities, we want to make sure our residents have convenient access to the services they need to thrive. One way we do this is by offering safe, reliable resident transportation.

Our transportation teams will take you to your scheduled appointments, shopping or other fun outings, like a local museum or dining venue. They’ll even provide a snack of coffee and cookies for the ride. Wherever you need or want to go, our resident transportation can get you to and from your destination safely and comfortably!

A Team Approach to Senior Living

At Hawthorn Senior Living, we believe that our team’s ambition to connect with residents and experience daily life together is what makes our communities stand out from the rest. Learn more about what sets us apart from other senior living communities in your area, and contact a community near you to schedule a personalized tour to meet the team for yourself.

July 20, 2022 | Events & News | by hawthornseniorliving

Recent Happenings at Hawthorn Communities

Staying Connected: Keeping Up with the Latest Happenings at Hawthorn Communities

A senior living community is a busy place, full of residents pursuing their next opportunity to learn something new, connect with a neighbor or get moving in a group fitness class. At Hawthorn Senior Living, our teams are always dreaming up ways to inspire creativity, engage minds within our communities and provide social activities for seniors. And that’s crucial, because research suggests that creativity is key to healthy aging. Studies have shown that participating in activities such as singing, theater performance and artistry can support the well-being of older adults, and that creativity can lead to greater longevity.

Every day at our communities offers a variety of activities and events to choose from that promote physical activity, lifelong learning, social connection and overall wellness. Our intellectual and cultural activities like art projects, writing classes and discussion groups offer stimulating socialization and help residents get in touch with their creative side.

In fact, Hawthorn communities have so many activities, events and special occasions that it’s a party every day! The past months have been chock-full of entertainment and socializing with friends and family. Hawthorn communities truly believe in the concept of community, and that feeling is obvious the minute you walk through the door. Let’s take a look back to see what a few of our communities have been up to lately!

Summerville Estates

Lazy River Floatin’

A group of residents at Summerville Estates in Summerville, South Carolina, beat the heat by relaxing at their local waterpark. They enjoyed hot dogs, burgers and fries for lunch, and some residents even stayed in the lazy river for three hours!

Summerville water park event

Sterling Heights

Senior Prom

Who says prom is only for teenagers? Residents at Sterling Heights in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, celebrated their first prom since 2019! Residents Art and Mary were crowned king and queen. The couple loves to polka, so they requested a polka for their first royal dance together.

Senior couple, male kissing on cheek

Mother’s Day Mimosa Bar

Residents, families and loved ones celebrated Mother’s Day with a Mimosa Bubbly Bar. Great food accompanied the bubbly and precious time spent with 50 of their lovely women!

The communities also asked their residents for advice that they’ve given as moms or have heard from their own mothers for an activity called “Like Mother Always Said.”

Senior resident sitting at the dining table on Mothers day

Memorial Day

Families and residents gathered on Memorial Day to honor those who gave their lives fighting for our country. A POW table was set up to remember those men and women. Veterans at the community presented the color guard, and the local VFW commander gave a speech.

Sterling Heights Memorial day event

Providence Meadows

Mother’s Day

Another wonderful Mother’s Day celebration was hosted at Providence Meadows in Charlotte, North Carolina. Residents shared in one word what their mothers were like: Wonderful. Perfect. Friend. Kind. Fifty ladies enjoyed wonderful Broadway-quality singer Theresa with her vintage clothing and sassy songs.

Senior Prom

Senior Prom was a hit for the residents at Providence Meadows. There was a dessert extravaganza, rocking music, magical decor and great energy! More than 50 residents attended, and instead of voting for of a king and queen, they elected folks in several other categories – Most Likely To Get in Trouble, Best Smile, Best Belly Laugh, Kindest, Best Listener and Best Storyteller.

Senior resident holding females hand

Father’s Day

When the community asked the gentlemen what they wanted for their Father’s Day celebration, they voted for hot dogs to the max! So the community delivered with a hot dog and brat buffet with good old-fashioned Coke for some bubbles.

Resident eating bbq outside at grill

Join In on the Fun!

You or a loved one can be part of all the fun activities and events at a Hawthorn community near you! Hawthorn Senior Living communities provide an unmatched array of creative and social activities for seniors. In fact, creativity, fun and lifelong learning are woven into the tapestry of our community life. For more information, visit us at SeniorLivingInStyle.com.

Every day is packed with fun at our communities! Stay tuned for monthly updates to get the inside scoop on what our communities and residents are up to. 

May 26, 2022 | Finance & Planning | by hawthornseniorliving

Financial Benefits of Senior Living

Unlocking the Value: Exploring the Financial Benefits of Senior Living Communities

As our parents age, one of the biggest concerns for families is understanding the cost of senior living and what it covers. Many families even find that the cost of senior living is more affordable when compared to the cost of in-home care.

Choosing where to live during your retirement years is a multilayered financial decision. Aging in place in your current home means dealing with the burden of home maintenance and the uncertainty of rising property taxes and utility costs. It can also mean that you’ll need to make expensive modifications to make living arrangements safe. Not only are the costs of property maintenance and upgrades something to consider, but health care needs may change, and you’ll want a cost-effective plan in place should this happen.

Mindful of the rising costs of living, senior living communities are providing a solution for seniors to enjoy a worry-free retirement. Imagine living in a maintenance-free senior living community with predictable, affordable monthly rent. As the costs of inflation – including the price of groceries, utilities and fueling a car – continue to rise, a move to a Hawthorn Senior Living community saves you money and brings you the security of all-inclusive pricing.

Worry-Free Lifestyle

At Hawthorn Senior Living, older adults can enjoy a vibrant lifestyle alongside personalized amenities and services that encourage multidimensional wellness. Our communities offer seniors the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of living in an active and vibrant environment while maintaining financial independence and security.

We take care of the stress that comes with owning a home so that residents are only responsible for their monthly rent and any additional services they need or have chosen. Not only does this simplify seniors’ finances, but it can also provide peace of mind.

What’s Included?

At Hawthorn communities, our month-to-month rent provides peace of mind, as residents know there won’t be any unexpected expenses. Most communities also include:

  • Electricity, gas, water and sewer
  • Local transportation
  • Basic cable
  • Three chef-prepared meals daily
  • Caring live-in managers
  • Planned activities and special events
  • Weekly housekeeping and linen service

Spend Your Days the Way You Want

Our daily exercise programs focus on your physical fitness, enhancing your balance and coordination, improving your strength and enriching your independent lifestyle. Intellectual and cultural activities like art projects, writing classes and discussion groups offer stimulating socialization and help you get in touch with your creative side. And, for the days where you simply want to bask in your own company, there are plenty of spaces for you to indulge in a book, take a stroll around campus or lose yourself in a new hobby.

Normally these activities would cost money for a senior still living in their own home, but at a Hawthorn community, these activities are part of the monthly rent.

Let Us Help – Contact Us Today

At Hawthorn Senior Living, we offer a variety of specialized services and activities designed for residents at all stages of life. Not only will our team help you find the right services to best suit you or your loved one’s needs, but they’ll also break down the cost with you so that you feel more comfortable and confident. Let us be a trusted source in your retirement journey. Contact us today!

May 26, 2022 | Senior Living | by hawthornseniorliving

Celebrating Mother’s Day in Senior Living

A Heartfelt Mother’s Day Celebration: Honoring Moms in Senior Living Communities

There’s no one like Mom, and Mother’s Day is the perfect time to take a moment and applaud all the women who have dedicated their lives to enriching ours. On Mother’s Day – even every day – the special women in our lives deserve to feel appreciated, loved and valued. However, if that special woman in your life is a resident at a senior living community, the celebrations may feel different from the old times. While there are a multitude of Mother’s Day gift ideas for senior loved ones, one of the best gifts is spending the day together, making memories and enjoying each other’s precious company.

At Hawthorn Senior Living, you can rest assured that nurturing relationships and interactions is a way of life. For every holiday, including Mother’s Day, our communities plan a celebration that nurtures the whole person – mind, body and spirit. Families and friends are encouraged to attend and partake in the fun activities. This year was no different – see how Hawthorn communities celebrated mothers, grandmothers, aunts and other lovely ladies this Mother’s Day.

This year, Hawthorn residents offered words of wisdom that they’ve given as a mom or have heard from their own mothers. These were collected for an activity called “Like Mother Always Said.”

Mother’s Day Tea at The Oaks in Georgetown, Texas

Every year, residents at The Oaks invite their families and friends for the annual Mother’s Day Tea Party. A classical pianist quietly tickles the keys while finger tea sandwiches and sweet treats are enjoyed. The tables are decorated colorfully and covered with lacy hand-crafted doilies, along with the finest china and petite silver and gold cutlery.

Like Mother Always Said from the residents at The Oaks

What’s the magic word? Please and thank you.

You have to do it by yourself – for yourself – nobody else can!

Clean your plate, there are starving children in Europe!

Take your shoes off before you come into the house – I’ve just mopped the floor.

Pretty is as pretty does.

It’s better to be safe than sorry!

As I left on a date, my mother would always say: Act as nice as you look!

This is not a restaurant. Take it or leave it.

Nothing good happens after midnight.

Mothers day event, group of senior friends

Garden Party at Mountain View Gardens in Sierra Vista, Arizona

Co-hosted with Casa de la Paz Home Hospice, Mountain View Gardens hosted a Garden Tea Party for Mother’s Day, complete with vintage tea sets, handmade flower centerpieces, gifts for each lady and prizes to give away. Residents also crafted umbrella flower door hangers and flower papier-mâché hats. The culinary team at the community prepared cucumber sandwiches, teacakes, lemon custard scones and southern-style pimento-cheese dip with butter crackers.

Like Mother Always Said from the residents at Mountain View Gardens

Wash behind your ears!

Don’t forget to brush your teeth.

Don’t act your age, and don’t take your health for granted.

What goes around comes around.

If you can’t give it your best, don’t do it at all.

Always make your bed in the morning, or else you will be tired for the rest of the day.

Straighten up and fly right.

Change your underwear.

Be good and always good.

The Oaks mother day event

Celebrating Moms at Hawthorn Senior Living

Finding the best care for Mom is another great way to let her know that she’s important. When the time comes, help her find a senior living community where she can live the retirement life she deserves and where she will have opportunities to participate in meaningful activities and develop new friendships.

At Hawthorn Senior Living, every resident is a part of our family, and we’re honored to have the chance to earn the right every day to be considered a part of theirs. If your mom is considering senior living, contact us to learn more about how we might be a great fit.

May 26, 2022 | Independent Living - Senior Living | by hawthornseniorliving

Hawthorn’s Advantage to Independent Living: Live-In Managers

Revolutionizing Independent Living: The Hawthorn Advantage of Live-In Managers

As older adults enter retirement, they may begin to hear more about independent senior living. Maybe they see more ads or hear about friends who have made the move, but some are left wondering, “What is independent living, anyway?” With a little research, they discover that independent living is, above all else, an opportunity to live the way they want.

Hawthorn Senior Living’s Unique Approach to Independent Living

At Hawthorn Senior Living, older adults can enjoy a vibrant lifestyle alongside personalized amenities and services that encourage multidimensional wellness. Our independent living communities offer seniors the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of living in a family environment while maintaining independence and security.

What makes independent living at Hawthorn stand out from other communities is our live-in manager program. Through this unique, hands-on approach to independent living, our live-in managers are able to support and service residents when needed. At select Hawthorn communities, managers live on-site and are available throughout the day. They eat the same meals, enjoy the same amenities and experience the same gracious retirement living experience as the residents. They treat residents like family because they live in the community alongside them.

It’s More Than a Job

Live-in managers are an integral part of many Hawthorn Senior Living communities. Below, Ethan and Rachel Weber share how it feels to serve seniors while living among them as friends and neighbors. With a passion for service, they describe what it’s like working with seniors together to give back and change lives. Our managers find they grow as a couple and create lasting friendships while providing a gracious retirement experience to our residents.

Ethan and Rachel Weber, Live-In Managers at Glenmoore Gracious Retirement Living in Happy Valley, Oregon   We’re all called to view this as more than a job. We’re family. And these are our grandparents and aunts and uncles. And it sounds silly, but if you do work and live with the Hawthorn heart at the center, you really can’t go wrong. Every day is different. I get to work with my spouse. And we have – I don’t know – deepened our bond together as a couple? I think that’s just the surprising thing about this, is how much it becomes a part of you. This is our home. This is where we live. I like the comfort and the safety, and security and peace of the building. To be able to walk around at night, to be with the residents and to live with the residents. I do like that. I think the biggest surprise for me is how much these folks mean to you. You see them every single day. But all of a sudden, you realize they’re important to you. One of the ways that we feel like we have made it special for residents is learning people’s stories. We had a lady that moved in here that had high anxiety. She didn’t even want to come to breakfast at first. So, on her to-go box, I wrote a little note, and I started to write it in rhymes. Well, her daughter let me know that her dad used to write notes to her like that. And when she came down that day, she started to get teary-eyed and said that it made all the difference for her moving in here. These people who have been through a lot, several of them have come to us and said, “We’re here because you’re here.” 

Senior Living Reimagined

At Hawthorn Senior Living, we know how to support seniors, and our caring concern for our residents is the foundation that leads to outstanding resident services. Developing senior living options is not only about construction and design but about bringing people together and establishing a real sense of community, connection and friendship. That’s why we started our live-in manager program.

Discover our gracious retirement lifestyle and the personalized levels of care our communities offer. With locations across the continental United States, we offer the utmost in senior living by combining the care and convenience seniors need to live as independently as they please. Visit seniorlivinginstyle.com to explore options near you!

April 18, 2022 | Activities - Senior Lifestyles - Senior Living | by hawthornseniorliving

Benefits of Giving Back in Retirement

Beyond Retirement: The Health and Happiness Benefits of Giving Back

As you enter your golden years, you may find yourself asking, “What’s next?” Volunteering is not only a way to get involved in your community – it’s also a great opportunity to expand your social circle, improve your health and support a good cause.

Having more newfound freedom can seem daunting at first, but giving back can help fill your time with rewarding experiences and activities. And it can have numerous health and wellness benefits!

April is National Volunteer Month, a time to show appreciation for volunteers, highlight the benefits of giving back and hopefully inspire others to take up a worthy cause as well.

While the people and organizations who rely on volunteers certainly benefit from the support, volunteers themselves have much to gain from these experiences. Research shows how important volunteering and giving back is for older adults’ mental and physical wellness. Living purposeful days gives people a sense of achievement at every age. Those feelings of connecting and giving back are linked to longer, healthier lives.

Benefits of Volunteering in Retirement

An estimated 9 million people age 65 and older volunteer their time each year. Seniors who volunteer at least 100 hours a year – that’s only eight to nine hours a month – show improved mental and physical health. Experts believe it’s because volunteering provides aging adults with a sense of purpose that translates to a more physically active and engaged lifestyle. Other benefits of volunteering include the following:

It reduces the risk of depression and lowers stress.

Volunteering increases your social interactions and helps you build a healthy support system. Social circles tend to get smaller as you age, and when that happens, isolation becomes a serious risk to your mental and physical well-being. Interacting with others and knowing you have people you can count on goes a long way toward living a happier life.

It promotes physical activity.

Whether you’re helping with a community event, gathering canned goods for a food drive, or being someone’s walking companion, the increase in physical activity can help lower blood pressure, lessen stress and reduce the risk of heart disease.

It improves cognitive resilience.

Staying mentally active and working toward goals can help improve cognitive health and lower the risk of memory loss as you age. The National Institute on Aging reports that maintaining mental acuity with meaningful, productive activities can lower your risk of cognitive decline and other health problems. The tasks you do as you volunteer can assist in keeping your mind sharp and resilient throughout your retirement years.

Finding the Right Volunteer Opportunity

Choosing the right volunteer opportunity starts with reflecting on your skills and interests. Ask yourself these questions to help discover what type of volunteer work you might enjoy:

What is my time commitment?

Are you seeking an ongoing opportunity, or would you prefer to work on a variety of short-term projects each month?

Do I want to harness my current skill set or learn something new?

Don’t feel confined to working only with the skills you currently possess. Many volunteer opportunities offer training to anyone who is willing to help.

What industries am I interested in? 

Do you prefer working with people in need, animal shelters, the arts, or adults and children with chronic illnesses?

Think about who or what cause you want to donate your time to.

How Hawthorn Senior Living Residents Are Giving Back

At Hawthorn Senior Living, giving back is part of our philosophy, and our residents and team members make it their mission to make a difference. Here’s what our residents have been up to lately. To learn more about our volunteer efforts, read our blog!

The residents at Mountain View Gardens in Sierra Vista, Arizona, recently hosted a food drive supporting their local community. It was a great success!

Food bank event

Many Hawthorn communities have shown appreciation to their local first responders and police departments. Residents at Williams Place in Davidson, North Carolina, invited members from the Davidson Police Department to the community. Residents, team members and police officers enjoyed each other’s company while playing rounds of cornhole.

Davidson police department

Residents at Orchard Heights in Clermont, Florida, handcrafted and delivered a large sunflower wreath to their local police station, along with a jumbo thank-you card and personalized goodie bags.

At Hawthorn Senior Living, we make it a priority to connect our residents with meaningful volunteer opportunities. Whether you choose to give in big ways or small, giving back is vitally important to your overall wellness. The possibilities are endless to make a lasting impact and touch lives in ways you may not even be aware of. Visit SeniorLivingInStyle.com to explore options near you.

April 18, 2022 | Health & Wellness - Independent Living | by hawthornseniorliving

The Benefits of Gardening for Seniors

Growing Wellness: Exploring the Health Benefits of Gardening for Seniors

There’s a special feeling you get when exploring a garden. From the scent of fresh flowers and the warmth of the sun to the texture of soil between your fingers, it’s hard not to feel happiness in a garden. In the spring and summer months, many people enjoy spending time outdoors and feeling accomplished when growing their own flowers, fruits, herbs and vegetables. But gardening is more than a fun hobby; it can also provide mental, physical and emotional health benefits that enhance overall well-being, especially as we get older.

Since April is National Garden Month, why not stop to smell the roses — and perhaps plant a few of your own? Learn more about the benefits of gardening for seniors and how it can promote a happier, healthier retirement.

Stress Relief

A study published in the Journal of Health Psychology found that gardening can lower levels of cortisol, also known as the stress hormone. Increased levels of stress over time can cause depression, heart problems and cognitive decline. Just 30 minutes a day working in the garden can also increase the production of dopamine and serotonin. These two hormones are considered “happy” hormones, and high levels improve mood and encourage happiness, resulting in less stress.

Promotes Overall Health and Wellness

Pulling weeds, planting seeds and digging in the dirt — all of which require the use of the hands and arms – can help seniors improve dexterity and hand-eye coordination, keeping the brain and body in sync. Gardening also stimulates the rest of the body by encouraging seniors to squat, bend, stretch, push and pull. This increases blood circulation and activates sedentary muscles, strengthening them to help aging adults maintain their mobility and physical health. Only a few hours of gardening each week provides seniors with a healthy, low-intensity workout. According to a recent study, tending to a garden regularly can help reduce the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, obesity, colon cancer and osteoporosis.

Dose of Vitamin D

Vitamin D, which the body manufactures when exposed to sunlight, is vital for senior health. Vitamin D helps regulate mood and supports a healthy immune system as well as bone health. Maintaining strong bones and a healthy immune system is a concern for many seniors, and sun exposure from gardening can help. While enjoying time outside in the sun does have its benefits, make sure to guard against overlong exposure to harmful UV rays by wearing sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat while gardening.

Reduces Risk of Dementia

Gardening has both physical and mental demands. It requires critical thinking and problem solving. This keeps an aging mind active, which in turn can reduce the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Gardening also helps those already suffering from dementia, as it stimulates multiple senses at once, helping patients connect to their current physical environment.

Gardening at Hawthorn Senior Living 

Hawthorn Senior Living knows the benefits of gardening for older adults and has incorporated gardening into our daily enrichment programs. We offer several opportunities for you to cultivate your passion, whether you enjoy getting your hands in the soil or simply sharing your gardening knowhow.

While it may be too early in the year for most of our communities to start their community gardens, a few of our southern communities are already getting started.

Spring is in the air at Carolina Estates in Greensboro, North Carolina. This year, the community gardening club has a plan that will benefit all residents. Their goal is to plant and harvest vegetables and produce that can be used in the kitchen for sustainable, garden-to-table dining. The resident-led group will grow lettuce, tomatoes and peppers, as well as herbs, carrots and kale.

Plant nursery field trip

At The Oaks in Georgetown, Texas, residents are starting their own spring garden boxes, in which they can plant whatever flower, herb or vegetable they would like. Residents are also lending a hand in cleaning up various gardens around the community to prepare the landscape for spring gardening.

Pursue an Active Retirement at Hawthorn Senior Living

Creating and supporting an active retirement is a top priority at Hawthorn Senior Living. We look to enrich the lifestyles of our residents by providing plenty of opportunities to enjoy life – including through gardening. To learn more about how Hawthorn residents are living and thriving in retirement, find a community near you and schedule a tour today!

April 18, 2022 | Health & Medicine - Health & Wellness | by hawthornseniorliving

Parkinson’s Disease: What You Need to Know

Unraveling Parkinson’s Disease: Understanding and Coping

The Parkinson’s Foundation estimates approximately 60,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease each year, and nearly 1 million Americans are currently living with the disease. Parkinson’s Awareness Month, which is observed every April, presents a special opportunity for people to learn about the disease and how it affects the U.S. population.

Parkinson’s disease is a chronic, progressive disorder that causes cell loss in the brain. The disease is complex, and the symptoms and progression can vary. But because Parkinson’s affects muscle control and movement, it’s likely that, at some point, those with the disease will need help with living day to day. That’s why senior living communities for individuals with Parkinson’s may be a good fit.

At Hawthorn Senior Living, we understand that aging with Parkinson’s disease can be increasingly difficult, but having a strong support system and knowledge about the disease is key to maintaining a high quality of life. In recognition of Parkinson’s Awareness Month, we are sharing important information about the disease and how you can help someone you love who is struggling with it.

Is there a cure for Parkinson’s?


Currently, there’s no cure or known cause of Parkinson’s. However, the latest research shows that genetics may play a large role in the development of the condition. Individuals who have a close relative (sibling or parent) diagnosed with Parkinson’s face an increased chance of developing the disease themselves. Recent studies estimate the risk for such people is as much as 9% higher than average.

While there’s no cure for Parkinson’s disease, therapies have advanced over the years. In addition to medications that reduce many of the disease’s symptoms, treatments for Parkinson’s disease include occupational, speech and movement therapies along with surgical interventions like deep brain stimulation (DBS).

How is Parkinson’s diagnosed?


Because there are currently no blood or laboratory tests that can identify or rule out the disease, it can be challenging for medical professionals to diagnose Parkinson’s. This may be why out of the 1 million people living with the disease, only around 60,000 have an accurate diagnosis. Currently, to diagnose Parkinson’s, doctors perform an extensive examination and consider the patient’s neurological and medical history. The examination focuses on tremors, muscle stiffness, and balance. If no other illnesses or diseases are found, and the patient exhibits multiple symptoms of Parkinson’s, the doctor arrives at a Parkinson’s diagnosis.

What are the early warning signs of Parkinson’s?

To help educate individuals about the disease, the National Parkinson’s Foundation shared the most common early symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. Knowing and understanding the warning signs can aid in early diagnosis and proper treatment. The early warning signs include:

  • Tremor
  • Smaller handwriting
  • Loss of smell
  • Sudden movements when sleeping
  • Trouble walking, as if your feet are stuck to the floor
  • A softer or lower voice
  • Dizziness or fainting, possibly due to low blood pressure
  • Facial expressions that appear depressed, sad or angry

It’s important to recognize any significant changes in your loved one’s health. Even if the changes aren’t symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, it’s crucial to address any potential issues as soon as they arise.

How can I help a loved one with Parkinson’s disease?

If someone you love is living with Parkinson’s, it can be difficult to know what to do and how to best support them. Here are a few ways you can help:  

  • Educate yourself as much as possible about the disease so that you can understand what your loved one is going through.
  • Help them with daily tasks, as they may have difficulty shopping, cooking or cleaning.
  • Help them stay physically active. Research shows that exercise allows the brain to use dopamine more efficiently. Better physical fitness helps your loved one enjoy better balance, strength and quality of life.

By knowing the symptoms and causes of Parkinson’s disease, you can help your loved one live a fulfilling life. At Hawthorn Senior Living, we’re here to lend a hand when daily tasks become more challenging. Regardless of the specific care your loved one may require, there’s a Hawthorn Senior Living community that can meet their needs and provide an array of opportunities to enjoy life to the fullest. Visit SeniorLivingInstyle.com to learn more.

April 01, 2022 | Health & Wellness - Tips & Tricks | by hawthornseniorliving

How Creativity Benefits Mind, Body and Soul in Seniors

Unleashing the Power of Creativity: How it Nurtures Mind, Body and Soul in Seniors

As children, we are encouraged to be creative – to play instruments, craft, paint and dance. But as the pressures of adult life begin to pile up, many find themselves gradually letting go of their creative side. Once in retirement, seniors have ample free time and an opportunity to rediscover their artistic nature, reaping the benefits of exploring their natural talents.

Ongoing research suggests that creativity may be key to healthy aging. Studies have shown that participating in activities such as singing, theater performance and artistry can support the well-being of older adults, and that creativity can lead to greater longevity.

At Hawthorn Senior Living, our teams are always dreaming up ways to inspire creativity, engage minds within our communities and provide unique activities for seniors.

Every day offers a variety of activities and events to choose from that promote physical activity, lifelong learning, social connection and overall wellness. Our intellectual and cultural activities like art projects, writing classes and discussion groups offer stimulating socialization and help residents get in touch with their creative side.

Benefits of Creative Activities for Seniors

Creative activities have been shown to have a positive effect on both physical and mental health. Research has found that creative expression gives seniors and aging parents a sense of purpose, maintains their coordination and concentration, and improves their mental health. And for those seniors with dementia, Parkinson’s disease and other chronic degenerative diseases, participating in creative activities can reduce anxiety and depression.

Living a creative life can help older adults in multiple ways, including being part of the six aspects of successful aging that researchers have identified:

Having a sense of purpose

Interacting with others

Personal growth

Self-acceptance

Being independent and retaining autonomy

Overall health 

Activities at Hawthorn communities incorporate all six aspects of successful aging through creative and other types of pursuits. Residents are provided a well-rounded and robust wellness plan to ensure an engaging and fulfilled retirement.

Creative Expression at Hawthorn Senior Living Communities

At all 79 Hawthorn Senior Living communities, residents can explore the diverse activities calendars, which change monthly and are curated based on resident feedback. Examples of activities include painting, sketching, photography, clay modeling, mosaics, ceramics, jewelry making, knitting, crocheting, quilting, flower arranging, wreath making and scrapbooking, just to name a few. These activities are also used in several outreach projects at Hawthorn—making wreaths for local firefighters, decorating and filling Christmas boxes for children in need around the world, and hand-sewing masks for community residents and team members.

While some programs are available at all Hawthorn communities, others may currently be available at only those locations where residents have expressed interest. The Hawthorn Senior Living teams survey residents as well as organize resident-led committees to inspire and drive the activity choices we offer.

Flower bouquet senior

For example, at Summit Glen in Colorado Springs, Colorado, residents have been busy making jewelry, stained glass art and their very own paper spring flower bouquets. This month’s activity calendar gives residents the opportunity to plant spring flowers, join the community choir and make cards.

Seniors posing for pictures with flowers

Residents at Olympus Ranch in Murray, Utah, have been learning about Chinese culture and painted Chinese calligraphy on canvas – a perfect example of combining mind-stimulating activities and creative arts. This month, residents can bake challah with the head chef, create personalized fragrances, and write and share their own poetry.

Olympus Ranch Chinese event

Get Creative at a Hawthorn Senior Living Near You

Creative activities help us discover new strengths because of our age, not despite it. They bring a sense of meaning, purpose and joy to our lives. And Hawthorn Senior Living communities provide an unmatched array of creative activities for seniors. In fact, creativity and lifelong learning are woven into the tapestry of Hawthorn life.

Continue your journey of growth and discovery at a Hawthorn community near you. For more information, visit us at SeniorLivingInStyle.com.

April 01, 2022 | Activities - Independent Living | by hawthornseniorliving

Why Seniors Should Consider Independent Senior Living

Independent Senior Living: What to Consider to Make Smart Choice for Your Next Chapter

While many older adults believe they’re too young, too independent or too healthy for an independent living community, we often hear current residents say, “Why didn’t I do this sooner?” The reasons for moving to a senior living community are abundant, but two that stand out are the opportunity to pursue passions and interests, and the chance to expand social circles.

Research consistently shows that seniors who transition to senior living communities are happier, have an increased sense of well-being and may even live longer. Residing in a senior living community combats feelings of loneliness and provides seniors an array of opportunities to socialize. This helps prevent the isolation and anxiety so many seniors feel as they adjust to retirement.

When older adults consider moving to an independent senior living community, most think about what they may have to give up. But what they actually get when they make the move is freedom – the freedom to explore new interests, meet new friends and pursue an active retirement. 

What Is Independent Senior Living?

The common misconception is that senior living communities are for older adults who need continuous care, but for most, that is simply not the case. If you want to enjoy a retirement lifestyle where you can pursue your interests without the burden of household chores and maintenance, then independent living is right for you.

Independent living communities offer a variety of amenities, such as swimming pools, fully equipped fitness centers, tennis courts, and resident clubs and interest groups. Other perks may include on-site managers living in the same community to offer a familiar and supportive face in an emergency, purpose-built theaters to enjoy with friends or on a date night, on-site salons catering to men and women, and friendly housekeeping services. Most communities are even pet-friendly.

An excellent culinary program, with numerous options, is an important part of a gracious retirement experience. Many independent communities, like Hawthorn Senior Living, offer a restaurant-style dining program that includes multiple nutritious and delicious options served over several courses.

Independent Living at Hawthorn Senior Living

At Hawthorn Senior Living, older adults enjoy a vibrant lifestyle alongside personalized amenities and services that encourage multidimensional wellness. Our independent living communities offer seniors the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of living in a family environment while maintaining independence and security.

All Hawthorn Senior Living communities offer a full complement of amenities and services. Below are just a few of the many amenities we offer.

  • Private independent living senior apartments with convenient kitchenettes and spacious bathrooms
  • An executive chef and culinary team who prepare multiple delicious meals available at breakfast, dinner, and supper ­– and snacks and beverages are available throughout the day
  • Weekly housekeeping and maintenance services, transportation to doctor’s appointments and shopping, and fun and exciting activities and events
  • Numerous purposefully designed areas to relax and enjoy a puzzle, a book, a cup of coffee or a conversation with a new friend

For those seeking a more personalized, hands-on approach to independent living, we have many communities that feature live-in managers who support and serve our residents throughout the day. They eat the same meals as you, enjoy the same amenities, and benefit from the same gracious retirement living experience. Our live-in managers participate in every aspect of life at Hawthorn and walk alongside you in this exciting new chapter of your life. Our live-in managers treat you like family because they live in your community as well.

Residents putting together a puzzle laughing

Testimonials From Independent Living Residents at Hawthorn

“When my husband passed after 62 years of marriage, I experienced what many of the residents of Alexis Estates have experienced – a dramatic change in how I lived my life. My children were concerned about me being alone in a big house and over an hour away. I was fiercely independent, but even I knew they were right. We immediately started looking for a place I could live that was closer to them and where they knew I was safe. Today, I consider myself a very blessed woman because I’m here. Yes, I’m safe, but I also have my own apartment to be safe in, and I’m never going to have to cook another meal again.” – Resident at Alexis Estates in Allen, Texas

“I’m very happy living at Paloma Landing. My apartment has a large balcony on the south and west sides, which makes a wonderful place to watch the hot air balloons and fireworks. The sunsets are beautiful! The staff and residents are all great, and the activity coordinator is wonderful. She works hard to keep us active and entertained. In addition to driving us to our appointments, our bus driver has taken us on interesting trips. This is a great place to live!” – Resident at Paloma Landing in Albuquerque, New Mexico

Tour a Hawthorn Community Today

Making a choice about senior living is the first step in a new life adventure. The best way to learn more about independent living is to take a tour – see it for yourself and ask questions. At Hawthorn Senior Living, we offer all-inclusive senior living for an active, secure and independent lifestyle. Visit SeniorLivingInstyle.com to explore options near you!