Sometimes, the simple act of sharing a story can do more for the heart than we realize. A familiar smell, a favorite song, or a well-loved photograph can open the door to memories that bring comfort, joy, and connection. For older adults especially, taking time to remember the past is about more than nostalgia — it’s a powerful way to honor a life well lived.

According to the American Psychological Association, reminiscing can improve mood, boost self-esteem, and help seniors reflect on the richness of their experiences. For many, recalling memories provides reassurance that life has been full of meaning and that challenges faced along the way have built strength and resilience.

More Than Memories

Experts note that reminiscing can bring several important benefits. First, it helps preserve family history. Many families know surprisingly little about the lives their older loved ones led before raising children or becoming grandparents. Sharing stories about growing up on a farm, serving in the military, or attending a one-room schoolhouse helps connect generations and keeps history alive.

Reminiscing also improves quality of life. For seniors who may face loneliness or limited activity, talking about joyful memories can brighten the day and bring balance. Even brief conversations about favorite holidays, friendships, or traditions can create a sense of connection and belonging.

Reflecting on past experiences can also help to reduce stress. Even difficult memories, when shared in a supportive setting, can bring healing. Talking through old conflicts or unresolved emotions often provides peace and perspective.

Therapy Through Storytelling

For seniors living with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, memories take on an even greater role. “Reminiscence therapy” is a widely used technique that relies on familiar sights, sounds, tastes, and smells to spark recognition. Music from a resident’s youth, the scent of fresh flowers, or a simple family photograph can trigger meaningful recollections.

At Snyder Village, memory care programs regularly incorporate this approach. Residents are encouraged to share about beloved pets, favorite childhood games, or the price of groceries when they were raising their families. “Memory boxes,” filled with letters, keepsakes, and personal treasures, can be created to inspire conversation. Outings, such as visits to museums, are also part of the program. With the help of museum educators, residents handle authentic objects and view historical photographs, which often lead to lively discussions and personal storytelling.

A Century of Memories

Living in community provides seniors with another benefit: the chance to reminisce with neighbors who share similar life experiences. At Snyder Village, these conversations happen daily, from casual chats over coffee to organized programs designed to encourage storytelling.

Recently, a resident celebrated her 100th birthday, a milestone that brought nearly a century of memories to life. She recalled memories from her childhood, joys of raising a family, and challenges of primitive household living. She also remembered her late husband fondly and meeting an American celebrity. Her memories not only entertained listeners but also reminded family and friends of the strength, resilience, and joy that come with a long and full life.

An Invitation to Connect

Reminiscing is not limited to senior living communities — it can be a simple, everyday practice for any family. Asking about a favorite childhood toy, a holiday tradition, or the story of how a loved one met their best friend can spark conversation and connection.

Listening closely and laughing together creates lasting bonds while preserving family history for generations to come. In the process, seniors are reminded that their lives matter, their stories are valued, and their experiences continue to shape the future.

As the residents of Snyder Village show each day, memories are more than stories. They are gifts that bring peace, joy, and meaning — both to the storyteller and to those lucky enough to listen.

Snyder Village, in Metamora, Illinois, is a life plan community offering independent living in its cottages and apartments. Snyder Village also features assisted living, memory care, and a health center along with physical therapy on site. Its home care services support residents in Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford, and Marshall Counties. For more information about Snyder Village, call (309) 367-4300, or visit us online at snydervillage.com.

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A new study by The National Poll on Healthy Aging found that 1 in 3 adults between the ages of 50 and 80 feel socially isolated.  The study was conducted between 2018 and 2023.  Although the number of those feeling isolated has decreased since the height of the COVID pandemic, the numbers are still higher than they were pre-COVID.  The adults most affected were those with disabilities and those who were unemployed.

Dangers of Isolation

When an older adult is home-bound and unable to attend events and social gatherings, isolation can quickly affect their mental health and well-being.  Depression caused by isolation can be particularly dangerous, as one can get caught in a depression-isolation cycle.  The more depression takes over, the less motivated an individual will be to socialize.  The more the individual withdrawals from their loved ones and society, the stronger the feelings of loneliness and depression get.  It can be easy to get trapped in this cycle of depression and social isolation.

Having conversations with others is a great way to keep cognitive skills sharp.  When an individual becomes isolated, they no longer have the opportunity to use their language skills, practice keeping focus, and recall memories through conversation.  An increased risk for dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other cognitive health problems may develop without regular interaction with others.

Not only affecting mental health, isolation and loneliness impact physical health as well.  According to the CDC, older adults with poor social relationships have a 29% increased risk of developing heart disease and a 32% increased risk of stroke.  Social isolation has also been found to significantly increase a person’s risk of premature death – so much so, that it rivals the risk of premature death caused by smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity.

Avoiding Isolation

If your loved one lives alone and is facing loneliness, take time to visit.  While long visits are most likely appreciated, even a short stop-in will help lift the spirits of your loved one.  Drop by while running errands, bring a meal, or have morning coffee together.  If your loved one has grandkids, make a quick stop before a musical concert or recital, when the kids are dressed up.  Even if your loved one is unable to make it to the event itself, the visit will make them feel like they’re still part of the special occasion.

When visiting, be sure to interact with the senior and engage in conversation.  Ask questions and inquire about their activities and feelings.  If holding a conversation is difficult due to dementia or other cognitive issues, bring a favorite book and read it aloud to your loved one.  Listening to the spoken word can still stimulate cognitive function and bring entertainment.

If a senior is able to drive or get transportation, encourage them to get involved in their church or local community senior center.  Many great activities and ways to connect with others are available.  A benefit of living in a retirement community or assisted living, such as Snyder Village in Metamora, IL, is the instant community it provides.  For example, Snyder Village has a team of staff members dedicated to creating engaging activities and social opportunities for its residents.  Daily opportunities for fun activities are available, such as card games, crafts, exercise classes, Bible studies, and trips and outings.  It is easy for residents to make friends with their neighbors as they take part in activities together.

If your loved one resides in a skilled nursing center, volunteer to accompany them to activities.  They may feel more comfortable with you there and may be encouraged to try the activities on their own in the future.  Visiting and bringing their favorite restaurant meal or taking a walk with them are other ways to lift the spirits of your loved one and keep loneliness at bay.

Human connection is a basic need we all crave.  If you or someone in your life is facing isolation and loneliness, reach out.  Call a friend, visit a neighbor, or get involved in your local community.  No matter the age, it’s still possible to make meaningful connections and valuable friendships.  Connect with someone today – it will do your mind, body, and soul good.

Snyder Village in Metamora is a Life Plan Community that offers independent living, assisted living, memory care programs, skilled nursing care, therapy, and home care. For more information, call (309) 367-4300 or visit www.snydervillage.com.

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The unique stressors that older adults face leave them with a higher risk of developing depression.  Chronic conditions and pain top the list of risk factors for depression, and according to the CDC, roughly 80% of older adults have at least one chronic health condition.  Other risk factors causing depression include decreased functional ability, reduced mobility, financial issues related to retirement, loneliness, isolation, and a reduced sense of purpose.  Depression can be harder to detect in older adults, as some symptoms may mirror others of the aging process.  For example, sleeping more may be a sign of a mental health issue instead of just a part of “old age”.  Also, cognitive changes that are often attributed to dementia may actually be a byproduct of depression.

Symptoms of Depression
If you or an older adult in your life have begun displaying symptoms of depression, it’s important not to ignore the warning signs.  Some signs and symptoms to look for include:

-Apathy, or a sense of not caring about anything
-Irritability
-Fatigue and low energy
-Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
-Insomnia or oversleeping
-A sense of hopelessness
-Trouble concentrating
-Overeating or a decrease in appetite
-Persistent sadness

Prevent Depression
Many people erroneously believe that seeking treatment for depression is a sign of weakness or failure, but it’s important to understand that depression is a medical condition and not a choice.  Just as you’d treat heart issues or diabetes, clinical depression requires medical attention.  Let your family, friends, or doctor know right away if you’re experiencing depression symptoms.  There are several avenues of treatment that can be explored, such as counseling and medication.  Once your depression is properly treated, you can quickly regain your quality of life and even cognitive abilities that may have been lost.

If you are seeking preventative measures against depression, there are many ways to be proactive.  Research has found that loneliness and isolation both contribute to depression, and older adults who are shut-in, live alone, or have decreased mobility are at greater risk.  Maintaining connections is crucial for well-being.  Older adults can benefit from regular visits from caregivers and/or family members.  Being part of a community, such as a club, community group, or church, can also ward off isolation and loneliness.  Older adults who live in a retirement community, assisted living facility, or skilled nursing center have the benefit of being surrounded by others and having regular opportunities for connection.  At Snyder Village, which is a life plan community offering retirement living, assisted living, and skilled nursing, residents regularly connect with one another by eating meals together, engaging in activities, and being involved in interest groups such as Bible studies or exercise classes.

Taking care of yourself physically can also help keep depressive symptoms at bay.  Older adults have unique nutritional needs, so eating a balanced, healthy diet is an important part of maintaining energy and avoiding medical conditions.  Getting plenty of rest is also vital to physical and mental health.  Older adults should aim for seven to nine hours of sleep nightly.  Staying active by exercising is another proven way to avoid depression.  Exercise doesn’t have to be vigorous.  Regular walks in nature, chair exercises, and gentle Tai Chi are all great options to get your body moving.  Group exercise, like the chair exercise classes that happen regularly at Snyder Village, has the double advantage of providing the health benefits of physical activity and the mental benefit of social connection.

One of the best ways to avoid depression and loneliness is to find a sense of purpose.  There are many ways in which you or a loved one can make a difference and give back to others.  Volunteering at a local food bank or animal shelter, helping grandkids with schoolwork, or sharing musical talent with others are just a few ways to make a difference.  Residents at Snyder Village enjoy volunteering around the campus and offering their services to help others.  Many volunteers by distributing the community newsletter, delivering meals, helping with activities, or gardening to provide vegetables or flowers that the community can enjoy.  Others lead Bible studies or take part in chapel services to connect with each other and to a higher purpose.

If you’re feeling symptoms of depression, know that you are not alone, and help is available.  Growing older brings its unique challenges, but depression doesn’t have to be one of them.

Snyder Village in Metamora is a Life Plan Community that offers independent living, assisted living, memory care programs, skilled nursing care, therapy, and home care. For more information, call (309) 367-4300 or visit www.snydervillage.com.

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The benefits to downsizing are numerous.  A smaller home can bring you financial savings with reduced taxes, insurance, utility bills, and general maintenance.  And more than likely, a profit can be made by selling your larger home, which will add a nice boost to your income.  If your downsizing involves moving to a retirement community or assisted living facility, you’ll receive the extra benefits of social activities, meals provided, and your home maintenance is taken care of.

If you are seeking to simplify your life and downsize your living space, a few action steps can help you reach this goal.

Step One:  Decide Where You Will Downsize To

The first step to take is to determine where your new home will be.  There are several options for older adults to consider when looking to downsize:

• Buying a smaller house or condo
• Renting a smaller home or apartment
• Moving in with a loved one (usually an adult child or other relative)
• Moving to a retirement community
• Moving to an assisted living facility

Once you have found your new home and know its size, you can begin to determine how many of your possessions will make the move with you to the new space.

Step Two: Declutter

Cleaning out and getting rid of possessions can be an emotional experience that affects everyone differently.  Some may have no trouble tossing that worn chair, but for others, special memories may be attached.  It’s okay to acknowledge that the process is difficult.  Be prepared to do the hard work of letting go of many belongings, but also give yourself permission to keep those special items that mean the most.

To keep from being overwhelmed in the downsizing process, start small.  Instead of picturing your whole house needing to be sorted, break up the process into small steps – room by room or even drawer by drawer.  Start by going through a small space like a laundry room or hall closet that has little emotional attachment and less of a time commitment.

As you go through your possessions, you may find that you’ve been holding onto duplicates of items.  Most people do not need multiple hammers or all those extra bed sheets.  Donate the duplicates to other households who can put them to good use.  If your new home only has one bathroom and you are used to having more, donate those extra towels you will no longer need.  Only keep what you can actually put to use in your new space.

While sorting through your belongings, make a pile for those items you will use in your new home and another pile of items you can sell, throw away, or donate.  It’s tempting to make an additional ‘maybe’ pile for items you are unsure about or feel attached to, but creating this pile is often a way of delaying the decision you ultimately need to make.  It may be difficult but try to be decisive about each and every piece.

Step Three: Prepare for the Move

Once you have decluttered and thrown away or donated the items you will no longer use, you can begin packing up the remaining items you will be using in your new home.  Enlist the help of friends, family, community groups, or your church to assist you in the process.  Professional organizers and packers are also a great option to help ease the burden that moving can sometimes be.

Individuals looking to move to the Snyder Village retirement community receive help through each step of the transition process.  The “Stress-Free Moving Program” offered at Snyder Village offers access to real estate agents, downsizing services, and moving services.  Snyder Village even offers an allowance to help ease the financial burden of downsizing and moving to make the transition stress-free.  “We know that downsizing and moving is a big decision, especially after living in your home for 40+ years. Therefore, Snyder Village provides several services to make it as stress-free as possible,” says Julie Beltramea, Retirement Community Director.

If the thought of a simplified life with fewer bills, less maintenance, and less upkeep sounds appealing to you, the time to start downsizing may be now.  Don’t let the downsizing process overwhelm you – just take it one step at a time.

Snyder Village in Metamora is a Life Plan Community that offers independent living, assisted living, memory care programs, skilled nursing care, therapy, and home care. For more information, call (309) 367-4300 or visit www.snydervillage.com.

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Health Benefits of Staying Active
Learning of the numerous health benefits of staying physically active can help motivate you to action.  Benefits include helping keep your brain, heart, and lungs healthy, reducing aches and pains, increasing energy levels, and reducing the risk of falls.  Additionally, physical activity can lower the risk of developing conditions such as coronary heart disease, stroke, Type 2 diabetes, obesity, and arthritis.  Staying active also helps keep your mental health in shape.  Physical movement can improve your mood, decrease depression, boost confidence and self-esteem, and help you relax and relieve stress.

No matter your age, exercise is essential to good health.  But as we get older, physical activity can become even more vital in helping ward off disease, sustain mobility, and enable an independent lifestyle. “Maintaining a healthy and physically active lifestyle is important within the older adult population,” explains Maddie Hadfield, PTA at Snyder Village Therapy.  “Remaining physically fit provides whole body benefits, reduces the risk of falls and maintains social emotional wellbeing.”  Older adults who exercise regularly are less likely to depend on others.  Participating in regular exercise promotes an older adult’s ability to walk, bathe, cook, eat, and helps reduce the risk of falling.

When considering adding more activity into your daily routine, it is always wise to check with your doctor first to discuss your current activity level and any existing health conditions you may have.  There’s no need to jump headfirst into a vigorous program.  Gradually adding more activity into your daily routine can work wonders for overall physical and mental health.  No matter a person’s age or health condition, there are easy ways to get moving as you age.

Ways to Stay Active
“Some ways to stay active on your own are by taking daily walks, volunteering, or completing indoor and outdoor chores,” says Maddie.  Other creative ways to get moving include:

-Gardening
-Shopping
-Playing with your grandkids
-Walking the fairways when you golf
-Washing your car
-Going for a bike ride
-Walking your dog

The key is to find activities you enjoy and won’t mind doing regularly.  By trying different group fitness classes or learning a new sport, you may discover a new hobby you’re passionate about.  Activities to try could include:

-Yoga
-Tai Chi
-Bowling
-Golf
-Tennis
-Pickleball
-Water aerobics

Not only do group exercise classes like yoga and tai chi improve flexibility and balance to help prevent falls, they’re also a fun way to stay social with others.  Doing an activity with a friend is always more enjoyable and can help give you the motivation that’s needed.  Residents at Snyder Village enjoy taking part in physical activities together, such as group exercise classes, walking together, or riding in the “Holy Rollers” Bike Club.  Many senior living communities offer chair exercise classes or more advanced classes to help residents stay active and healthy.  At Snyder Village, Silver Sneakers exercise classes are offered regularly on campus, along with more unique classes, such as Ball Drumming.  Residents are able to reap the health benefits of exercise, while at the same time socialize with their friends and neighbors.  Other specialized classes can be found through local gyms, community centers, and park districts.  “It’s always a good idea to grab a buddy to be active with!” says Maddie.  “Remember, it’s never too late to start!”

Snyder Village in Metamora is a Life Plan Community that offers independent living in its retirement cottages and apartments.  Beautiful assisted living accommodations, memory care programs, skilled nursing care, and physical therapy are also available on campus.  Its home care services support individuals in Peoria, Tazewell, Woodford, and Marshall Counties.  For more information, call (309) 367-4300 or visit www.snydervillage.com.

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(As written in the March 2022 Issue of 50 Plus News and View Magazine – Greater Peoria Area Edition)

As data from the last census poured in, one statistic surfaced that can boggle the mind: More people have been leaving quiet, small-town life behind and have been migrating to big cities.

While cities may provide many opportunities, anyone who has ever lived in or even just visited one knows a metropolis lacks many of the things small towns offer.

The geniality in a smaller community easily rivals that of the disconnected, disinterested denizens of the city. In these small towns and villages, the residents’ closeness to one another have little to do with how near their homes are from each other. In fact, a good small community is really like a family.

At Snyder Village in Metamora, that tightly knit, familial community is everything.

Community Connectivity

Marge Cunningham, Snyder Village Social Service Director, has been connected to the residents at Snyder Village for over 30 years. “I was hired in May of 1988 to set up both the activity and social service programs prior to Snyder Village Health Center opening in July 1988,” she recalls. “People like to say I came with the building!” As the staff worked to prepare the building for its initial inspection, Marge enlisted volunteers to help clean. “This is a great community and we had plenty of people helping with that.”

Since those early years, Marge has been assisting residents and their families get used to a new life at Snyder Village as well as helping temporary skilled nursing residents get back to their normal lives in the greater Metamora community.

As a community within a community, Snyder Village is also involved with the surrounding town through sponsorship of local events and building relationships with other small businesses in the area, as well as the schools and civic organizations.

For example, students from Metamora High School football and basketball teams have volunteered to do service projects for Snyder Village, while Germantown Hills Middle School Student Council has done yard work, and local Scout troops have played Bingo with the residents and participated in other activities.

“We’re thankful for the many individual volunteers who also come help by serving in our bistros, helping with activities, assisting with fundraising events, and much more,” shares Angela Kauffman, Snyder Village Marketing/Communications Director. “We have many residents who also give of their time and energy to volunteer in the Snyder Village community and surrounding area. Our own residents also volunteer on campus by greeting visitors, serving in our bistros, delivering meals, and much more. Many residents are active in our local community serving in their churches, civic organizations, and community groups.”

The love for the community goes back to Snyder Village’s namesake, Bertha Snyder. Her charitable gift laid the foundation for Snyder Village, which, to this day, is governed by a board of directors from the local area who have a committed interest in the wellbeing of the community.

A Family Affair

The basic unit of any community is the family, even when that community is as small as Snyder Village. After decades of service there, Marge and her husband, Mark, believed in the mission of Snyder Village so much, they recently became fulltime residents of its community.

“Mark was actively looking for just the right cottage for us, but I had put in a few requests, like being able to see the countryside from some of our windows,” Marge says. “We had lived in the same home in Washington for 40 years and while we had good neighbors, the homes in our area were very close to one another. When this cottage at Snyder Village became available, we felt like it was a good time. This is our place to call home!”

The Snyder Village mission of committing to provide for the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of people in a loving, dignified, and Christian atmosphere is carried on to other members of Marge’s family as well.

“My mom moved into an apartment here five years ago,” Marge reveals. “She lived alone after my father died and was responsible for seeing that the lawn got mowed, the snow got shoveled, and had to arrange for any repairs needed at the house. So, she talked to me about moving to Snyder.”

After exploring the differences between cottage and apartment living, Marge’s mother chose the latter, so even in bad weather, she would have access to activities and meals. “She is able to visit with her neighbors and not have to go out in the snow or rain,” Marge says. “If something needs fixing, help is just a phone call away. She says it’s the best decision she ever made.”

This is a decision with which two other mother/daughter pairs on campus can empathize. Marge and her mother are just one of three multiple generation families who call Snyder Village home.

Snyder Village wouldn’t exist or function as a home, of course, without the efforts of its staff – men and women who are themselves as much a part of the community as the residents. The Snyder Village team is, in its way, a family taking care of families.

Currently, they are looking to add to their family as well. Hiring is now open for several different positions.

Main Street, USA

Something that has, unfortunately, gone by the wayside over the last few decades is the small-town main street. For a very long time it was common for businesses owners to live above their workplace or at least within a few minutes of it. At Snyder Village, however, Marge is still able to keep that main street feeling alive.

“It’s really nice to live so close to work,” she admits. “This fall I was able to ride my bicycle to work for the first time. I know that if I need to run into the office for a brief task, it won’t take long to get there and get back home.”

Never being far from her family makes it infinitely better. With her mother living at Snyder Village, spending time together is as simple now as it was when Marge was a kid. “We have always made time to do things together but now it’s even easier!” Marge elates. We’re looking forward to doing some walking back and forth between the cottage and the apartment when the weather is nice this spring/summer.”

Proximity is of vital importance when it comes to emergencies as well. Living and working at Snyder Village means Marge is personally able to check in on her mother even during a break. “As time goes by,” she adds, “I know if she needs more help or needs to move on to assisted living or even skilled nursing, it’s all available here.”

Marge is not alone when it comes to melding work and home into the same environment. Her husband has been volunteering at Snyder Village since Marge started working there. “Mark has enjoyed helping at the sausage and pancake breakfast different years. He’s been able to do more volunteer work since he retired and delivered meals out in the community over the summer,” she shares. “He brought donuts to the staff in the Health Center to cheer us up after COVID hit. We try to support different programs throughout the campus like sponsoring Brian ‘Fox’ Ellis to do an Irish history story telling in 2019 and donating towards the garden remodel at the front of the Health Center, which is happening this spring.”

Of course, it’s not all work for the Marge and Mark Cunningham. Living on campus also means meeting their new neighbors, forging new friendships, and joining some of the programs and retirement community activities.

Labor of Love

Just as with any strong community, Snyder Village has not achieved such success without a lot of determination. Keeping residents connected with each other and their families requires constant effort. Whether through virtual chats, phone calls, special activities, or safe, in-person visits, their sense of community is built as they socialize with one another during activities, parties, religious services, exercise classes, and entertainment opportunities.

That effort is exemplified by every member of the Snyder Village community. And like the town which Snyder Village calls home, it is much greater than the sum of its parts. As Angela attests, “The relationships among the residents, their families, and the team of Snyder Village employees truly make our community one big family.”

Snyder Village is located at 1200 East Partridge Street in Metamora, Illinois. To learn more about us or to apply for one of our open positions, please call us at (309) 367-4300 or visit us on the web at www.snydervillage.com.

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Health Benefits of Faith in Older Adults
The health benefits of a strong faith are numerous, and studies examining the correlation between religion and health date back to the early 1900’s.  One such study listed in the Journals of Gerontology found a link between life expectancy and religious involvement.  The survey of 35,000 participants revealed an increase in life expectancy in those who considered religion very important and an even greater increase (4.38 years for women and 2.63 years for men) in those who attended religious services weekly.  

Religion and spirituality also appear to help slow cognitive decline and improve quality of life for those with dementia.  According to a study by International Psychogeriatrics, individuals who use their religion and faith in daily life were better able to preserve relationships, reduce or stabilize cognitive disorders, maintain hope, find purpose, and cope with their disease.  Despite cognitive impairment, older adults still have a need for inner peace and comfort, which faith can provide.

A sense of belonging is a benefit of attending religious services or being part of a faith community.  Relationships formed through faith practices help fight depression and loneliness, which often affects older adults.  Danira Parra, chaplain at Snyder Village, says, “I do believe that faith, prayer, and connecting to God and each other is more important now than ever…especially because there is more stressing us than ever before.”  Having others who are willing to pray, listen, and offer support can help a senior cope with the loss of a loved one or their own health difficulties.

Many older adults struggle with finding a sense of purpose in the later years.  For those whose career or young children once occupied their time, retirement or an empty nest can feel aimless.  A person’s faith can reveal a higher purpose and a desire to serve God and others.  A belief in God offers hope, which can bring a positive outlook, inner peace, and satisfying joy.  

“Studies show there are many health benefits in utilizing just one faith modality – that of prayer,” explains Chaplain Parra.  “Benefits include stress reduction, inhibiting cortisol, increasing endorphins, lowering blood pressure, reducing the incidence of ulcers, and lifting the attitude.  Given our current environment and reality, I’d say that the regular practice of faith and the disciplines that go with it – like prayer, fasting, and mediation – are more important than ever.”

Spiritual Needs of Older Adults
Researcher Nancy C. Kehoe, RSCJ, Ph.D., has done extensive studies to identify fourteen spiritual needs of older adults.  Among them are a need for meaning, purpose, and hope; a need for support in dealing with loss; a need for personal dignity and sense of worthiness; a need for unconditional love; and a need to love and serve others.  

The importance of meeting spiritual needs can often be overlooked, but the benefits of faith on whole-body wellness are evident and effort should be made to meet these needs.  If your loved one has difficulty getting to church or a Bible study because of mobility issues, offer to drive them or arrange transportation.  If it becomes too difficult for them to leave their home, consider offering to read Scripture to them, do a Bible study with them, or ask a pastor or priest to visit them.

For those considering a move to a senior living community, choosing one that is faith-based or has a religious affiliation can help meet the spiritual needs of those whose faith is important to them.  Snyder Village in Metamora, IL, is a Christian-based organization whose mission is “to provide for the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of others in a loving, dignified and Christian atmosphere.” Spiritual needs are met through campus Bible studies and devotionals, hymn sings, Protestant and Catholic chapel services, and a campus chaplain.  However, Snyder Village is not associated with a particular denomination, and residents are welcomed regardless of religious affiliation.  

It’s important to not overlook an older adult’s spiritual needs, even if mobility or health challenges are present.  “Remember that because God is everywhere, it doesn’t take being in a special place or time to exercise your faith,” says Chaplain Parra. “You can pray anywhere, anytime.  And just as with physical exercise – the more you do it, the stronger, more fit you will be.”

Snyder Village in Metamora is a Life Plan Community that offers independent living, assisted living, memory care programs, skilled nursing care, therapy, and home care. For more information, call (309) 367-4300 or visit www.snydervillage.com.

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A loss of independence can be due to physical or mental changes in an individual.  To understand what an older adult feels as they experience less independence, it’s important to consider what changes are occurring and what they are losing.  As we age, mobility decreases, making everyday activities like driving or walking more challenging.  It can be alarming when one’s body no longer works like it used to. The aging process may bring a loss of sight or hearing, difficulty walking, difficulty completing daily chores, loss of flexibility, or a general decrease in energy.  These physical changes can affect a person’s  confidence and self-worth.  Their social life can also be impacted as they find it more challenging to go see friends or take part in recreational activities. These changes can often result in sadness or depression.

If You Are Experiencing a Loss of Independence
If you have begun noticing that once-easy tasks and activities are becoming harder for you, know that you’re not alone.  These changes are perfectly natural, and so are the emotions they may bring.  Feeling  anger, frustration, vulnerability, and fear are perfectly natural.  However, feelings of guilt or shame are unwarranted and shouldn’t be driving your actions or decisions.  You will need to ask for help, and that is okay.

Asking for help can be humbling and uncomfortable at first, but it should become easier the more you do it.  Just know that the loved ones in your life would prefer you ask for help instead of taking on a task that could cause injury or harm. There is no shame in asking for help when you need it, and every individual will experience a need for help at some point in his/her life.

Try to be open to the advice of others.  If your loved ones are suggesting that you need a walk-in bathtub, a stair lift, in-home care, or senior living arrangements, try to keep an open mind and give their suggestions consideration.  If these suggestions are coming from people who truly care for you, then you know they have your best interest at heart.

If you’re finding it hard to cope with the physical, mental, or emotional changes you may be experiencing, be honest and talk with someone.  Your family, caregivers, and friends want what’s best for you but won’t know how to effectively support you if you don’t voice your needs or concerns.

Supporting Someone Experiencing a Loss of Independence
A loss of independence is one of the most difficult parts of life for anyone to experience.  Perhaps the most important thing you can do to support your loved one is to approach the subject with patience.   People can react to losing independence in different ways, whether it be with frustration, irritability, or sadness.  It takes time to process the changes that are happening, so be patient with your loved one as they adjust to this new reality.

If your loved one has become more isolated due to mobility issues, help them get out of the house.  Taking them to see friends or family, or even just going for a drive can help lift their spirits.

Keep the lines of communication open and ask them often how they are feeling about the losses they are experiencing.  Be an active listener and give them space to talk.  Even if you think your words and actions are helping, you won’t know until you give them opportunity to express their concerns.

Trying to support someone who is losing their independence can be emotionally and physically draining, so be sure to practice self-care.  If your schedule or energy doesn’t allow you to take on more of a caretaker role, seek out in-home care, respite care, or senior living options for your loved one.  If in-home care or a senior living community would be best for your loved one, communicate these suggestions to them with empathy.  Include them in the process and make it clear that any suggestions you have are made with their best interest in mind.

Facing a loss of independence is a reality we all must experience.  But if you have loved ones or a caring senior living community to support you through the transition, losing independence does not have to keep you down.  Life with less independence may look different, but it can still be a fulfilling and beautiful journey.

Snyder Village in Metamora is a Life Plan Community that offers independent living, assisted living, memory care programs, skilled nursing care, therapy, and home care. For more information, call (309) 367-4300 or visit the links below.

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Get Active
When the weather turns colder, it’s tempting to stay inside and hibernate.  But putting in a little effort to get out and about can boost your mood.  Visiting friends and neighbors, saying ‘yes’ to that holiday party invite, and welcoming others into your home can help keep you engaged and fulfilled.  Other opportunities for socializing or entertainment are numerous during the holiday season.  It’s easy to find an event to attend that speaks to your interests and will bring a little extra joy, such as a holiday concert or special religious service.

If driving at night or during the winter is difficult for you, ask a friend or family member to accompany you to an event.  Or if you have an older adult in your life who is unable to get out on their own, invite them along to the next event you attend, include them in decorating, or take them on a drive to see Christmas lights around town.

Getting outside for a brisk walk can also help lift the spirits.  Exercise has always been an effective way to ward off depression.  Joining an exercise class at a local gym or finding recreational activities at a community center are great ways to stay active during the winter months.

Get Involved
Volunteering and helping others has been proven to increase mental wellbeing and boost mood.  A big reason for this is the social connectivity that volunteering can provide.  A study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships found that people who volunteered more tended to report fewer symptoms of depression.  Along with social connectivity, volunteering can help bring a feeling of purpose and fulfillment as you work with others to make your community a better place.  Volunteer opportunities can be found at places like local schools, hospitals, museums, churches, and shelters.

Get Talking
If you feel the holiday blues creeping in, don’t hesitate to talk to someone about it.  Even if you don’t feel comfortable talking about your feelings, just having regular chats with friends, family, or neighbors can keep you from slumping into feelings of sadness or loneliness.  The Institute on Aging’s “Friendship Line” (1-800-971-0016) is a 24-hour, toll-free line for those aged 60 years and older and can provide crisis intervention or just a friendly ear to listen.   

Get Help if Needed
Feeling down every once in a while can be normal, however, if you notice feelings of sadness worsening or lingering, a more serious condition may be present.  Clinical depression is not a normal part of aging or something that should be expected just because of the memories the holidays can bring. Depression is serious and treatments are available.  Take note of warning signs of depression including a loss of interest in hobbies or activities, changes in sleep (sleeping too much or too little), changes in appetite, sadness that won’t go away, frequent crying, being overly irritable, general apathy, or thoughts of death or suicide.  

If you are experiencing several of these symptoms and they last for more than two weeks, call your doctor.  For immediate assistance, Text HOME to 741741, and the Crisis Connection Line will connect you to a counselor, or call the 24/7 National Suicide Prevention Line (1-800-273-8255).

A Place to Belong
Being lonely and depressed during the holiday season does not have to be your reality.  Finding a community with activities to participate in can make this holiday season a joyous one.  Snyder Village, a life plan community in Metamora, IL, provides its residents with a full calendar of festive activities, entertainment, and social opportunities.  The retirement community, assisted living center, and skilled nursing center all provide a sense of community and togetherness.  Residents enjoy having musicians come perform on the campus, taking outings together to holiday concerts, making festive holiday crafts, and celebrating with one another at parties and meals. Further, the holiday blues can be combatted by getting involved and staying active with the exercise classes and volunteer opportunities offered right on campus. Learn more about all Snyder Village offers by calling (309) 367-4300 or by clicking here.

This holiday season, don’t let sadness or loneliness take over.  Get active, get involved, and get talking.  And if you recognize more serious symptoms of depression, get help.  The holidays can be, and should be, the most wonderful time of the year.

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