Stories about seniors 100+ and innovative wellness programs

1. Enriched Senior Living
winter 2010
Easy ideas to dance your Way
TRAIN to fitness
Your in our new Arabesque program
BRAIN
WoW the croWd
PAge 22
join a jug band
AnD Hit the Open Road
ALSO: Tips for staying in touch } pAge
12
1 w w w . s p e c t r um r e t ir e m e n t . com A PublicAtion of SPectrum retirement communitieS, llc

2. John Sevo managing director
Jeff Kraus managing director
Robert Landau editor & vice president of fun
rlandau @ spectrumretirement.com
Kathleen MacDonald vice president of marketing
Caren Ermel senior vice president of operations
Phil Luebbers senior vice president of finance
and administration
Maureen Regan Cannon vice president – group publisher
mregan @wiesnermedia.com
Brendan Harrington editor
Lindsay Hayes creative director
A memory change that affects daily life is 1 of the 10 warning.signs Susan Humphrey director of digital media
of Alzheimer’s disease. Recognizing the symptoms is the first step
toward doing something about it. For more information, and to learn
what.you can do now, go to alz.org/10signs or call 877-IS IT ALZ.
WIESNERMEDIA, LLC
6160 south syracuse way, suite 300
greenwood village, co 80111
(303) 662-5200 phone (303) 397-7619 faX
©2009 Alzheimer’s Association. All Rights Reserved. www.wiesnermedia.com WWW.CUSTOMPUBLISHINGCO.COM
change that affects daily life is 1 of the 10 warning.signs
er’s disease. Recognizing the symptoms is the first step
ng something about it. For more information, and to learn
an do now, go to alz.org/10signs or call 877-IS IT ALZ.
DIRECTING THE WAY TO THE FUTURE!
ation. All Rights Reserved.
Do we have the most innovative activities program around? You bet cha!
• Conductorcise Fitness Program • Arabesque Ballet Fitness Program
• Hollywood Legends Lecture Series • BrainFitness Classes
• Great Destinations Travel Series • World Events Weekly Round Table Discussions
• HUGS Good Will Program • Broadway Theatre Appreciation Series
Visit a Spectrum Community today and be a part of what’s happening.
Your mind, body and spirit will thank you!
888.516.2188 www.SpectrumRetirement.com

3. Welcome to Spectrum
O n b e h a l f O f a l l O f u s at what’s current and newsworthy in the vast
Spectrum Retirement Communities, we and ever-changing world of senior living
hope you enjoy this complimentary issue and wellness.
of our Enriched Senior Living magazine. We hope you enjoy this issue as much as
It is our intent to share what we’ve learned we enjoyed putting it together for you.
about longevity and wellness so our resi-
dents, and seniors in general, can enjoy a John sevo and Jeff Kraus
longer, healthier and happier life. In future Managing Directors
quarterly issues, we’ll continue to present Spectrum Retirement Communities, LLC

4. contents
life, well lived Get to know some of Spectrum’s spectacular centenarians.
14
Inside Spectrum Spectrum Wellness
05 looking ahead
Announcing a new community, with
a new design, in Peoria, Arizona.
20 getting to the pointe
Introducing “Arabesque,” a dance
fitness program from Colorado Ballet.
06 a special place
The Memory Care Unit at Lincoln
Meadows sets a new standard of care.
22 training the brain
Staying mentally sharp requires
cognitive exercise.
Spectrum Lifestyle
24 what’s that you say?
How to help a loved one
08 a real juggernaut
The Ocean Ridge resident
with hearing loss.
Jug Band hits the big time.
Spectrum Advisor
10 just being there
Time together is what matters
most to your parents.
26 why buy?
Finding the perfect place for
your parents — without the
outrageous fees.
12 staying connected
The Internet provides an easy way
to stay in touch long distance.
4 w w w . s p ec t r u m r e t i r e m e n t. co m

5. insiDe
Looking Ahead
Another Spectrum community comes to life! By robert Landau, Vice president of Fun
COn struC tiOn h a s be gun On developing and managing retirement, assisted living,
Spectrum’s newest community, Palos Verdes Senior and memory care communities from coast to coast.
Living in Peoria, Arizona. The new building will Spectrum has grown from six communities in 2004
feature 140 independent, assisted living, and memory to 21 communities in 2009, representing more than
care apartment homes and is a new design for Spectrum 2,000 units with more than 900 employees.
in that it is slightly smaller and more intimate in scale. Spectrum Retirement Communities offers spacious
The building is designed in accordance with the local retirement apartment homes at an affordable month-
environment and architectural style that surrounds to-month rent, with no expensive entrance fee or buy-in.
it, and has a different look and feel than Spectrum’s Each community also offers an all-inclusive service
recent builds in Colorado, Missouri, and Illinois. program with “At Your Service” hospitality, casual-
The city of Peoria is directly adjacent to Sun City, elegant dining with choice and flexibility, multiple dining
Arizona. Palos Verdes Senior Living is close to shop- venues, housekeeping, and limousine and bus transpor-
ping and other public amenities and just minutes tation. They feature innovative and engaging activities
away from sports and cultural venues. A new programming and one-of-a-kind resort-style amenities
major medical center is being built nearby as well. that include private physical therapy in the state-of-the
Spectrum will welcome Palos Verdes into its ever- art fitness centers, theaters, sky lounges with outdoor
growing portfolio of senior retirement living options decks, beauty salons, greenhouses and more.
when it opens in the Fall of 2010. At Spectrum Retirement Communities, residents
Spectrum Retirement Communities, LLC, a can continue to age in place with access to assistance as
Denver-based senior housing owner and developer, needed, all at an affordable price. For more information
was founded in 2003. The company specializes in about Spectrum, visit www.spectrumretirement.com.
s p e ctru m / w in t e r 20 1 0 5

6. INSIDE
By robert Landau, Vice president of Fun
A Special
Place
The Memory Care Unit at
Lincoln Meadows sets a new
standard in care By robert Landau, Vice president of Fun
“A house is not a home unless it contains food and fire for
the mind as well as the body.” -Benjamin Franklin
a hOme shOuld n Ot Only be Memory care in this day and age is not only an
comfortable and peaceful for the body, but a emerging health science, but a true art as well. An
healthy and positive stimulant for the mind environment that combines the loving feelings
and spirit as well. A person can only feel truly of home with state-of-the-art care is the perfect
balanced if both mind and body are fully taken combination. It is in this type of setting that one
into account. This is also true when it comes to quickly discovers everyone’s daily needs are differ-
the design and operation of memory care units. ent—as different as the many stages of dementia
Across the country, state-of-the-art memory and Alzheimer’s. To see memory care residents
care units are becoming an integral part of retire- who are happy, comfortable, and healthy is a sure
ment communities that offer residents a full sign that the care and love they are receiving is
spectrum of care. In the past, these memory care making all the difference in the world.
wings were all too often an afterthought. But today, Spectrum Retirement Communities recently
many retirement communities are rushing to meet opened a new memory care wing at the brand
the rising demand for superior memory care. new Lincoln Meadows Senior Living Community
6 ww w . s p ec t r u m r e t i r e m e n t. co m

7. in Parker, Colorado. There, residents are in the door of each apartment is designed to look like
process of finding new homes in independent, the front porch of a country cottage, complete
assisted, or memory care divisions. with mailbox and porch light. The mail-
“I was immediately taken with the
way Lincoln’s memory wing looked
To see boxes, each a different color, are unique
in that the resident’s full-size color photo
and felt when I toured it recently,” memory can be placed on it. There’s also a curio
said a health care professional who cabinet so items that act as a memory
attended the grand opening of Lincoln’s care cue for the resident can be lovingly
memory care unit. “Anyone seeing it
would know that this truly is something
residents displayed. Apartments are generously
sized and offer a lot of natural light. Each
unique and special. Kudos to the folks who are unit features a unique memory station
that had a hand in creating this!”
This is where Mike Longfellow, happy, where special items of a personal nature
can be placed. In fact, all through the
A.I.A., comes in. A licensed architect,
Longfellow has a broad range of experi-
comfortable, memory care unit there are many design
cues and features that serve to activate
ence in designing innovative hospi- and memories for people who live there.
tality, health care, commercial, and
residential properties. He is involved
healthy It’s a place that almost reaches out and
touches you on many different levels.
with the design and construction of is a sure “We wanted all of it to be very bright
Spectrum’s new communities across and full of natural light. We took into
the country. We recently caught up sign that account extensive research that shows
with Longfellow and asked him to tell
us about Lincoln Meadows’ memory
the care that primary colors help stimulate one’s
memory. The same goes for the common
care division, a wonderful new and and love areas, where residents will find a variety
fresh design that is to his credit. Here
is what he said: they are of unique and inviting spaces that are
very generous in size compared to indus-
“The visual approach is different
when you first see it. For one thing,
receiving try standards.
“One the most exciting parts of the
our memory care wing is connected is making design is the memory garden. This can
to the rest of the Lincoln Meadows
campus. This has everything to do
all the often be an afterthought, but here it’s an
integral part of the facility. Both in terms
with our aging-in-place concept difference of its size and its content, our memory
where, if there’s a couple and the garden is second to none. It features a
husband should need memory care in the large amount of plantings, gathering
services, he resides there while his
wife remains in their apartment in
world. spaces, raised planting beds, and activity
spaces. The paths of the garden were laid
another part of our community. out to draw residents through the space, creating
“The entire memory care unit is designed with points of discovery and places of activity.
a country cottage feeling. You can see and feel “We’ve created this unit to be a special place
this just about everywhere you look, from the where our residents can take advantage of the
off-white wainscoting in the common areas to the best care possible in surroundings that are
plantation shutters and hardwood flooring. comfortable, stimulating, and healing—every-
“Let’s talk about the apartments first. The front thing one’s new home should truly be.”
s p e ct ru m / w in t e r 20 1 0 7

8. LIFE S T YLE
A Real Juggernaut
The Ocean Ridge Jug Band ignites passions with every performance
Local Band on Their Way to the Big Time!
WhO WOuld have guessed that a speCtrum-resident Jug band COuld
take the world by storm? As you will soon see, what started as a glimmer is quickly becoming an audience
favorite, complete with five-minute standing ovations at major conferences.
Mary Luther, Spectrum’s Director of Fun at Ocean Ridge Assisted Living in Coos Bay, Oregon, took it upon
herself to pilot a project that is now reaping major rewards—for her, the band, and all of the people they touch
each and every time they perform. Here, we check in with Luther and discuss the Jug Band phenomenon.
spectrum: How did this all begin? can recite poetry like you wouldn’t believe. She’s a
mary luther: We started the Ocean Ridge Jug natural born actress and didn’t even know it until
Band in 2006, shortly after I became the Director she joined this band. Another member is a published
of Fun. We began with about seven members and writer and keeps us in parodies, taking popular songs
our first performance was in front of an audience and changing the words that make us laugh so hard
of about 200 at the Senior Idol Competition that we cry. There are no auditions, so anyone can join.
we held here at Ocean Ridge. The band was such a
big hit that we just kept going with it. As our resi-
dents saw how much fun the Jug Band was having, “Watching the band perform made
more and more decided to join. We now have 14
members and a waiting list of about six.
me very proud to be part of an
organization that loves and supports
s: Have things changed at Ocean Ridge since the
band’s inception?
seniors the way Spectrum does.”
ml: Jug Band has done so much for the energy and
attitude of our residents, whether they are band s: Do the band members have any kind of a
members or not. Creative energy is flowing and it’s mission that underlies what they do?
common to hear members working over songs in ml: The band members consider it their mission to
the dining room. The Senior Rockerettes are our Jug entertain and bring happiness to people who may
Band dancers and have regular practices in the not be doing or feeling so well and they take it very,
dining room after breakfast. One of the dancers was very seriously. Their goal is to make people forget
in Vaudeville at the age of three, but didn’t dance too their problems and sickness for just a little while and
much after that until he came to Ocean Ridge. Now in doing that, it enriches the band members’ lives.
he’s 88 and back on stage dancing, reciting humor- We have a job to do and each and every member is
ous poetry, and singing. Another member has never committed to making each performance the best we
sung a solo in his life and now gets so much pleasure can. It doesn’t matter if there are five or 500 people
out of singing in public. Virginia, our 96-year old, in the audience, our Jug Band will deliver!
8 ww w . s p ec t r um r e t i r e m e n t. co m

9. Resident Jug Band Wows the Crowd!
the O C e an rid g e Jug band re C en tly perfOr med fOr an audien C e Of
400 people. The occasion? The Oregon Health Care Association’s Annual Conference in Portland. The reaction
of the crowd? Nothing short of stellar!
Carol Hull, Spectrum Retirement Communities Vice President of Operations, attended the record-break-
ing performance and had this to say about what she observed.
spectrum: So what was that day like? patriotic songs, and loved the band’s old favorites as
carol hull: At first I didn’t think anyone would well. It actually brought tears to some people’s eyes,
listen to the band. They had taken their places on seeing people perform on stage so vibrantly and totally
stage but since this was during a luncheon, there was engaged with what they were doing. It was very clear
a lot of noise in the large ballroom. By the second to one and all that the band was having a wonderful
song, you could have heard a pin drop! Things really time and they truly deserved to win the award that
shifted as people were truly engaged with what was they received. Their leader, Mary, Ocean Ridge’s Direc-
happening on stage rather than at their table. tor of Fun, was absolutely amazing to watch too.
s: What was the reaction of the band, how did s: What did you come away with from this
they handle all of this? experience?
ch: The joy the band was experiencing was very ch: Watching the band perform made me very
obvious to the crowd. The applause was huge at the proud to be part of an organization that loves and
end of each song. At the very end, everyone—all 400 supports seniors the way Spectrum does. That love
of them—stood for a very long time just clapping! This and support is there everyday and the residents feel
was truly an amazing series of moments, one that I’ll it. Anyone watching the Jug Band perform that day
never forget. The audience laughed during the band’s also felt it and that’s one of the many things that
funny songs, clapped to the rhythm of the band’s made that day so very special.
s p e ctru m / w in t e r 20 1 0 9

10. LIFE S T YLE
Just Being There
Time with family can cure those winter blues By robert Landau, Vice president of Fun
“Alone again for another year! Jack’s gone and the kids are in
another state and I’m left with a house full of memories. If
there’s a way I could just go to sleep and not wake up until
January 2, I’ d do it right away, no questions asked!” »
10 w w w . s p e c t r um r e t i r e m e nt . co m

11. d Oes this sOmeWhat sad parental WORk WiTh TheM
refrain sound familiar? It’s more common than you If your folks are down, get them to talk about
may think, and not just during the holidays. For many what’s going on. Just knowing you care can work
seniors that period of time between Thanksgiving and wonders. Sharing what ails them isn’t a sign of weak-
New Year’s day, when the world is focused on joy and ness, it can actually be very empowering. Try to do
the prized company of others, is when loneliness hits more things with them during this time of year such
the hardest. And it’s a feeling that can endure. as shopping or going to the movies. Increased physi-
The holidays remind us exactly how important it cal activity, such as walking, may also help.
is to spend time with family. Really, when it’s all said
and done, nothing matters more. But the value of CLOSe pROxiMiTy WORkS Like A ChARM
spending time together goes well beyond the holiday Being near you and the rest of the family is more
season. Just being there for your parents, any time meaningful than you’ll ever know. Consider getting
of the year, will cheer their spirits immensely. It’s as them into a nearby retirement community. Then,
simple as spending some time. they’d be near you and also have social interaction
with new friends as they take part in an innovative
Why SO BLUe? and stimulating activities program. Staying home
Your parents probably miss you more than you know. alone should never be an option if at all possible.
It’s easy to forget how much they value your company
when you get bogged down by life’s daily demands. It JUST CALLed TO SAy “i LOve yOU!”
doesn’t have to be anything special, but just being with If nothing else, call your parents and tell them how
your parents can really turn things around for them. much they mean to you and that you love them.
It’s difficult for them to see your smile over the phone.
Why ARe They depReSSed?
It could be any number of things. Look to the past
year for clues: The loss of a loved one or close friends or
not being able to drive places they could in years past.
Often, the biggest source of depression is loneliness —
Depression...
because they aren’t with you.
Spending just a little bit of time together can turn
what would have been a frown into a smile…and it’s ...has much more of an impact on our
easier than you think. health than arthritis, diabetes, or
asthma, and can often go untreated.
GeT TheM invOLved SOCiALLy
Spend as much time as you can with your parents ...is responsible for approximately
during the holidays and all throughout the year. $87 billion a year in lost productivity
Remember, it’s about making memories that will last. in the United States.
How many parents are mired in the past looking at
the same scrapbook year after year? Living in old ...is on track to becoming the second
memories may not be the best thing for the soul, but most disabling disease the world over.
making new memories brings new life and joy into
one’s experience — during the holidays and beyond. ...affects close to 10 percent of
If you can’t be there as much as you hoped, make sure America’s population each year.
your parents are involved in social events with friends
or other seniors.
s p e ctrum / w in t e r 20 1 0 11

12. LIFE S T YLE
Staying
Connected
The internet makes it easy to stay in
touch with family across the country
By molly parker, spectrum retirement communities
the mOdern fa mily i s r arely
confined by geographical boundaries. Rather,
members of a single family often live in different
towns, states, or even countries, making it difficult
for families to remain close. When long distance is
compounded with busy schedules, it is no wonder
that people often lose touch with their loved used in social networks such as Facebook, Skype,
ones. While the literal distance between family and Twitter, it is no surprise that people feel
members is an increasing reality, access to a family lost when dealing with the Internet. The normal
member’s voice or face is really just a click away. avenues for communication are changing, and
Daily multigenerational use of the Internet you must evolve with them in order to keep in
can solve these issues of communication. Unfor- touch with all generations of your family.
tunately, many Americans find themselves out Here is a guide to help you become a bit more
of the loop as technology has rapidly advanced tech savvy and use these new technologies to
in the past decade. With all of the “foreign lingo” your advantage.
WWW.fACeBOOk.COM
With more than 200 million users worldwide,
Facebook is the most popular social networking
site in the world. Initially designed as a forum
for college students, this network has expanded
to include users from the ages of 13 to 104! Yes,
even savvy seniors are enjoying the benefits of
this social site. The network allows you to keep
tabs on busy relatives, whether by viewing photos
from their recent trip to Europe or sending a
quick greeting via a Facebook message. Facebook
is the perfect way to keep in touch on a daily basis
with minimal effort. The site is free of charge and
easy to use, and you can navigate the site within
mere minutes of signing up.
12 w w w . s p e c t r u m r e t i r e m e nt . co m

13. WWW.Skype.COM
This software application has
revolutionized long-distance rela-
tionships. Users can talk to anyone
worldwide free of charge. Skype
users can even video conference and
instant message with one another,
making it a popular means of chat-
ting for free while abroad or at home.
Seeing a loved one’s face live on your
computer screen is the next best
thing to an actual visit, allowing you
to feel closer to your friends and
family than you may actually be.
we’re here to Help!
Spectrum retirement Communities helps
families and residents to stay connected!
Log into any of our on-site computers
and we’ll show you how you can:
* Find out what’s happening daily at the
Spectrum community of your choice.
* e-mail, Tweet, Facebook, etc. with
Spectrum residents and family members.
WWW.TWiTTeR.COM
Twitter, like Facebook, is a free social networking Web * Personalize your own web page.
site. Twitter uses micro-blogging messages called “tweets”
to update people about activities on a day-to-day, or even * Join online discussions.
a minute-to-minute, basis. These “tweets” can consist
of thoughts, videos, or new links in which the user is inter- * e-mail photos to residents, friends
ested. Twitter has become so popular that even celebrities and family.
are “tweeting” for everyone to see. Similar to a blog, it
All of this is Free to residents and family
is a good way for people to keep in touch and follow
what their friends and family are doing everyday. members. It’s another perfect way families
The Internet provides many easy-to-use forums for can stay in touch with residents and resi-
communication among friends and families. However, a dents can stay in touch with their families
handwritten letter, phone call, or face-to-face visit is still at Spectrum retirement Communities.
the best way to keep in touch and really make it count!
s p e ct rum / w in t e r 20 1 0 13

14. ay out
Ada’s big d

15. Life Well
they COn stit u te
one of the fastest growing
segments of America’s popu-
lation. Centenarians—those
100 years old or better—have
LIVED
a story to tell and more and
more people are listening.
What is it that makes these
wonderful folks tick? What’s
the secret to living a long,
healthy, and happy life? Spec-
trum Retirement Communi-
ties is honored to have a
number of residents across
the country that fit into this
Some of Spectrum’s group rather nicely. For this
centenarians issue of Spectrum Magazine,
share their we decided to focus on four
secrets to a amazing centenarians who
long and live at Spectrum’s Pine Ridge
Hayes community in Sterling
glowing life
Heights, Michigan.
Read on, their stories are
By robert Landau,
Vice president of Fun sure to impress you. »
s p e ctrum / w in t e r 20 1 0 15

16. Ada
Scot
t
spectrum: What’s the most memorable
thing you accomplished in your life thus far?
ada: I had some dear friends in Florida.
When they became suddenly ill, I cared for
them and helped them with anything they
needed. It’s what you do for dear friends.
spectrum: What’s your secret for staying
so young minded and healthy?
ada: I think it has a lot to do with determina-
tion and the way you feel. I’m determined and
I feel pretty. I’m also bullheaded. Last winter I
was clearing snow off my patio in nothing but
a light sweater when I should have been totally
bundled up. I did it and felt good doing it! You
AdA SCOTT, 102 know what? I’m looking forward to my 103rd
MOTORCyCLe MAMA exTRAORdinAiRe year and all the wonderful things it will bring.
At 102 years of age, Ada Scott really packs a
wallop! There isn’t a thing she’s afraid of or won’t spectrum: You are known for doing a
conquer if she puts her mind to it. A role model? couple of very daring things. Care to elaborate?
Yes. A perfect example of what you can accomplish ada: Well, when I turned 100, the local Harley
in life if you have the right mindset? You betchya! Davidson club in these parts came by and I rode
on the back of one of the guy’s Harleys. What
ada: I’m originally from Winnipeg, Canada and a day, what a ride! I wasn’t afraid at all, never
fell in love with and married an American citizen. having been on a motorcycle before. You have
I still remember the day I received my United to live each and every day to the fullest. Don’t
States citizenship papers. What a memorable day be afraid to experience things you haven’t done
that was! I was so very proud. before, you may never get the chance again.
“You have to live every day to the fullest. Don’t be afraid to experience
things you haven’t done before, you may never get the chance again.”
spectrum: What do you remember most JUAniTA keLLeR, 101
about your childhood? hARd WORk neveR hURT A SOUL
ada: My Dad had a farm. When I was eight Juanita will be 101 by the time you read this.
years old, my five brothers and I had to help on the A West Virginia native, she was raised on a
farm each and every day. It was tough work but farm, as well, where hard work was not only
it taught me a lot about life and what was really expected but an integral part of each and
important. Hard work makes you a strong person, every day.
even at an early age.
16 w w w . s pe c t r u m r e t i r e m e nt . co m

17. “What’s important to me is that
juanita: Growing up wasn’t easy for me
and my sister. We never met our father as he I cherish and am so thankful for
passed a month before I was born. It was just
the three of us and boy, we truly could have
each and every day. Don’t worry
used six! about the future, the present is
spectrum: Did you marry?
what’s important.
juanita: Oh yes. He’s gone now but I can
still remember seeing him for the first time. spectrum: What was his reaction?
He used to drive a Greyhound bus. I was in High juanita: Oh, he never knew. I was always in
School at the time and the first thing I noticed the back of the bus making fun of him. We married
was how he looked in his bus uniform. and ended up having two boys. We moved to Pitts-
burgh and then to the Detroit area. My husband
ended up building roads and tunnels.
spectrum: Did that ever worry you?
juanita: Oh, yes. I was plenty worried but he
always came home so it turned out just fine.
spectrum: What’s important to you at this
point in your life?
juanita: Living where I do. I’m involved in
the wonderful activities offered here. I’m very
well taken care of by Mary, our activities person,
and the rest of the staff. My son is also extremely
important to me. He visits me almost every
week. He’s very good and thoughtful to me. I lost
my other son to a brain tumor.
spectrum: What do you attribute your long
life to?
juanita: Hard and dedicated work. Work
on the farm when I was younger and work in
Juanita Keller my various careers, too. At one point I owned a
bed and breakfast, at another I worked for the
spectrum: How so? local arts center. Even now I find ways to always
juanita: Well, in those days, all the Grey- make myself involved and useful. It keeps me
hound drivers wore these really tight pants, alive, it keeps me young. I don’t think about the
made of some sort of leather or spandex type of future much—what’s important to me is that I
material. Honestly, you couldn’t help but notice. cherish and am so thankful for each and every
I started to make fun of how much bigger his day. Don’t worry about the future, the present is
bottom looked in those tight fitting pants. what’s important.
s p e ctrum / w in t e r 20 1 0 17

18. Irene
Bann
spectrum: May we ask how old you are?
irene: Sure, why not? I’m 102.
spectrum: How do you feel?
irene: I feel great…really I do!
spectrum: Any advice for those who wish to
follow in your footsteps and live a long and healthy life?
irene: Don’t overeat. That isn’t being healthy.
Eat in moderation. As I look to my future, I hope
to continue on as I’m doing right now. You have to
take it day by day and accept things as they are.
Life is good!
STeLLA SeWeRyn, 101
dAnCinG QUeen
Stella’s love for a good polka and a good night’s
sleep keep her going strong.
iRene BAnn, 102
Life iS GOOd! stella: I’m from Poland. My parents were
Irene has been living at Pine Ridge Hayes for farmers but my father died when I was very young.
eight months and already feels very much at home. He was 32 years old and it left our family at odds.
irene: I come from Dayton, Ohio. I had two spectrum: What happened then?
sisters and a brother. My parents were from Austria stella: We emigrated to the States and settled
and Hungary. I speak Hungarian and I can even in an area of Detroit where a lot of Polish people
write it. I was just like all the other school kids. I lived. That’s where I met my husband.
went to school each day, came home and did chores.
spectrum: How did the two of you meet?
stella: We met at a friend’s house. I
“You have to take it day by day and remember that so clearly, pretty good for
accept things as they are. Life is good!” 101 years old, don’t you think? They had
an accordion they loved to play. My future
husband was there and we started to
spectrum: What type of chores? dance. I love to dance, especially the polka. There’s
irene: Clean house, cleaned the kitchen floor. nothing like a good polka!
spectrum: Did doing chores around the spectrum: Did you have a career?
house help you any way later in life? stella: My husband did. He used to work at
irene: Funny you should mention that. I think the Chevrolet factory here in the Detroit area. We
it’s a question of discipline and responsibility. had a son and a daughter. My son passed away.
Doing chores helps prepare you for things—for I have two granddaughters that live close by. I
life in general. It keeps you humble. owned a deli for a while.
18 w w w . s p e ct r um r e t ir e m e n t . co m

19. spectrum: What has kept you so young at heart?
stella: Dancing! Work and dancing! I always
worked and once I retired I would dance. I found
it to be great exercise to keep me going, still do.
“Life is so very precious,
don’t you think?”
spectrum: What else do you like to do now?
stella: Hmmm…let me see...sleep!
spectrum: Well don’t let us keep you.
stella: No, no, that can wait. I also think it’s
important to always be dressed well. I also drove
my car until I was 96. All of these things, caring
enough to dress well, dancing, driving and, yes,
even sleeping, have kept me young. Life is so very
Stella Seweryn precious, don’t you think?
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s p e ctrum / w in t e r 20 1 0 19

20. WELLNE SS
Getting to
the Pointe
Spectrum Communities and Colorado Ballet pilot
new senior fitness program called “Arabesque”
DANCER: MARIA MOSINA; PHOTO BY ALLEN BIRNBACH
By Anne o’connor, Director, education & outreach, colorado Ballet
at ten O’C lO C K On an y given
morning, the sun streams through floor-to-ceiling
windows on the second floor of a 100-year-old
former Dodge Brothers’ dealership in downtown
Denver. Silhouetted in the light are nearly 50 ballet
dancers, stretching, taping their toes and tying
their pointe shoes, getting ready for a two-hour
warm up. This is Colorado Ballet Studios.
“To watch us
Under the direction of Artistic Director Gil dance is to hear
Boggs, Colorado Ballet’s dancers come from
all over the world. They have practiced these our hearts speak.”
movements since they were children. Every day, — Hopi Indian Saying
they jump a little higher, bend a little deeper, and
stretch a little longer, always striving for perfec-
tion. They will rehearse until long after the sun make dance accessible to
has set, leaving exhilarated and exhausted. everyone. The Education
and Outreach Department
has served more than
“We’re trying to stretch our muscles 600,000 students, teachers, families, people with
creatively. It gives us so much disabilities, and lifelong learners in the last ten
years, through programs like Dance Renaissance,
more freedom.” — Mikhail Baryshnikov an after-school dance program at 13 under-served
elementary schools, and audio-described ballets
Established in 1961 by Lillian Covillo and for blind and visually impaired patrons attending
Freidann Parker, Colorado Ballet is a not-for- productions at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House.
profit organization presenting superior quality Now, Colorado Ballet is proud to partner with
classical ballet and innovative dance through Spectrum Retirement Communities on Arabesque,
performances, training, and education programs a fitness program incorporating movements from
that enhance the cultural life of the community. the classics of ballet. Colorado Ballet dancers
One of Colorado Ballet’s top priorities is to and dance teachers worked together to create
20 w w w . s p e c t r u m r e t i r e m e nt . co m

21. “Dance is
your pulse,
your heartbeat,
your breathing. It’s the
rhythm of your life. It’s InnovatIve
fiTneSS
the expression in time
and movement, in
happiness, joy, sadness introducing our dynamic new
and envy.” — Jaques D’ambroise Wellness Centers
By Kathleen macDonald, Vice president of marketing
seated exercises based on variations from The
a number Of speCtrum retirement
Nutcracker, and piloted the program with
communities are opening their doors to a revolu-
Denver residents in November. Participants
tionary new Wellness Center. Spectrum is excited
learned the behind-the-scenes history of the
to announce a very recent partnership with Tech-
work, took part in a modified ballet warm-up,
nogym USA, one of the nation’s most innovative
and worked with dance professionals to transfer
designers of fitness equipment. Spectrum’s Senior
scenes from The Nutcracker—including the
Vice President of Operations, Caren Ermel, says,
classic “Snow Scene” and the spirited “Waltz
“We are very excited about this Wellness Center
of the Flowers”—from the stage to their seats.
because we believe it will make a huge difference
Residents then traveled to the Ellie Caulkins
in the lives of our residents.”
Opera House in the Denver Performing Arts
How so? Many of Spectrum’s Wellness Centers
Complex to see a full-length performance
are developed and staffed by experts with active
performed by Colorado Ballet.
aging in mind. Technogym’s equipment is designed
Future plans for Arabesque include expand-
to be non-intimidating and approachable. All
ing the program to explore other classics such
adjustments are color-coded and accessible from
as Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty, Romeo &
the seated position. Technogym enables residents
Juliet and more.
to work out safely and efficiently, all while enjoy-
ing themselves and having fun.
“Great dancers are not “We are pleased to be partnering with Spectrum
great because of their Retirement Communities to deliver Wellness to their
residents. Spectrum has a strong commitment to
technique, they are great providing excellent equipment, programming, and
staff to help their residents maintain independence
because of their passion.” and enjoy life to the fullest,” says Brian Greene, of
— Martha Graham Technogym USA.
s p e ct rum / w in t e r 20 1 0 21

22. WELLNE SS
Training
the Brain
Mental stimulation and social interaction
are key to cognitive wellness
By taylor moss, spectrum retirement communities
m an y pe Ople are COn C erned
about developing dementia as they age and
want to know what they can do to prevent it.
While there are not yet any specific medical
treatments available, there are many lifestyle
factors known to significantly reduce the risk don’t have to be a marathon runner to enjoy the
of developing dementia. Three such factors are mental benefits of exercise.
a healthy diet, physical exercise, and mentally Exercise increases blood flow to the brain,
stimulating activity. thereby providing more energy and nutrients
Many chronic conditions such as diabetes, to the brain’s cells. Exercise also releases many
heart disease, and some cancers show lower chemicals that promote growth of new nerve
frequency among people who eat a diet of vege- cells and new connections between nerve cells.
tables, fruit, nuts, and lean meats and seafood. Finally, mental exercise is something that more
Dementia is also less common among people people are becoming acquainted with through
who eat a healthy, balanced diet. the recent popularity of “brain games.” Many stud-
Physical exercise is associated with improving ies show how important mental stimulation is to
health in a very broad way, benefiting every- preventing dementia.
thing from diabetes and heart disease to simply Mental stimulation comes in many forms.
making one feel more energized. Numerous Activities such as reading, playing music, or
studies also demonstrate a strong link between doing crossword puzzles can be very beneficial,
as can more social activities
Many studies show how important mental such as playing cards, volun-
teering, or simply interacting
stimulation is to preventing dementia. with friends. Nearly any activ-
ity that requires active mental
physical exercise and cognitive health. One engagement is thought to be beneficial. While
study found regular exercise correlated with a consumer brain training video games have not
30 percent reduced risk of developing dementia. been studied enough to show any correlation, it
Another study found benefits from as little as 90 would seem logical that they have similar effects
minutes of leisurely walking per week. So you to activities such as crossword puzzles.
22 w w w . s p e c t r um r e t i r e m e nt . co m

23. keep iT fReSh centers feature an assortment of exercise equipment,
Not all mental exercise is created equal, however. fitness programs, and classes that meet the fitness
Any mental activity will show diminishing returns goals of any resident. And Spectrum offers group
after years of repetition. A person who has done activities designed to stimulate the mind, such as
the Sunday New York Times crossword every week the Brain Fitness program, which includes a twice
for 30 years, for example, will get much less mental weekly helping of brain teasers, word games, fun
exercise from it than somebody who has never done a facts, and friends.
crossword puzzle before. This leads many experts to The new and unique Conductorcise and Arabesque
recommend a variety of mental activities to maintain fitness programs effectively combine classical music
their benefit. A music lover who is proficient at play- education and ballet history with aerobic exercise into
ing the piano could learn another instrument; or an a win-win situation for the brain and body. Stimulating
avid bridge player could take up crossword puzzles. lecture series and other innovative events keep resi-
There is no reason to stop doing activities you enjoy, dents active on many levels throughout each and every
but there is much to be gained from trying new activi- day. This type of continuous social interaction is one
ties—and there are nearly limitless options available. of the best things people can do to reduce the risk of
Spectrum has designed its retirement communi- dementia...not to mention it’s a whole lot of fun!
ties and innovative activities programs to promote
all three areas of wellness. Chefs prepare a variety For more information about Spectrum’s dynamic wellness
of nutritious and delicious meals each day. Wellness programs, visit us online at www.spectrumretirement.com.
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s p e ctrum / w in t e r 20 1 0 23

24. WELLNE SS
What’s That You Say?
The best way to help with hearing loss may be not helping at all
By terry Ball, m.AuD., ccc-A
he a r i n g lO s s C O m e s i n m a n y Solutions—The Impact of Treated Hearing Loss
shapes and sizes. It can affect people of all ages on Quality of Life).
and for various reasons. But unless the hear- So why wait to get a hearing aid? Oftentimes,
ing loss is caused by a trauma to the ear, either the hearing-impaired individual fails to recognize
physical or acoustical, the loss tends to be a there is a problem and resists taking responsibility
slow, gradual onset. This gradual loss makes it for it. But untreated hearing loss can be associ-
even harder for people to recognize that they ated with fatigue, irritability, anger, avoidance
are having as much difficulty as they are. But of social activities, negativism, loneliness, less
most people, as they get older, do experience alertness to the environment, impaired memory,
some degree of hearing loss and even mild less adaptability to learning new tasks, reduced
hearing loss can significantly affect quality of general health, reduced coping skills, and
life for people and their families. reduced overall psychological health.
Loved ones often act as the ears for people There is data to support the idea that
who no longer hear like they used to hear. As improved hearing improves quality of life for the
such, they end up repeating themselves, speak- hearing-impaired and their loved ones. Work-
ing louder, interpreting the conversation of ing with the National Council on Aging, 1,500
others, or maybe just saying, ‘forget it!’ hearing aid owners and 1,500 family members
According to an article published by the were surveyed on various components of quality
Better Hearing Institute, the number one of life issues. The findings clearly demonstrate
reason why people purchase their first hear- that those who sought help for their hearing loss
ing aid is that they recognize their hearing has had better relationships at home and with family,
improved mental health, social life,
No one likes being pushed, but when emotional health, and physical health.
Dr. Firman, of the National Council
gentle, helpful guidance in the form on the Aging, stated in a speech to the
of love and compassion comes, so will media in 1999, “This study debunks the
myth that untreated hearing loss is a
change. Don’t be a hearing helper! harmless condition.”
So what can you, the family, do to
worsened. The second reason is pressure from help? First, don’t be the ears of your loved one.
family members who are negatively impacted If you repeat what you say, constantly raise your
by an individual’s loss. The average age of first- voice, or act as the messenger, then they don’t
time hearing aid wearers is close to 70 years old, need to seek help. Your goal is to assist them
despite the fact that the majority (65 percent) in hearing better, independently of you, and
of people with hearing loss are below the age especially as they transition into an environment
of 65; and nearly half of all people with hearing where they interact more with others or have the
loss are below the age of 55. (Source: Hearing opportunity to engage in more social activities.
24 w w w . s p e c t r um r e t i r e m e nt . co m

25. Be A ReAL heARinG Aid
Recognize life patterns in both you and your what is best for your loved one, you can make it
loved one who is having hearing difficulties. We happen. But don’t force it—create it. No one likes
all react differently and do things in certain ways. being pushed, but when gentle, helpful guidance
If you recognize general patterns of behavior and in the form of love and compassion comes, so
attitude, it may give you insight as to how to best will change. Don’t be a hearing helper!
address the issue. Likewise, you have your own So everyone’s decided to make an appoint-
patterns. Have you been assisting them for so long ment for the hearing test. Now what? Look for
that they now expect it and you are now part of an experienced audiologist. Be sure that he does
the pattern? You need to lovingly tell them you a complete hearing evaluation, takes the time
will no longer repeat yourself and then make a to do a communication needs assessment, and
conscious effort to stop interpreting for them. offers several options for meeting your loved
Make the commitment not to be an enabler. one’s hearing needs. And be sure that you are
Once you make up your mind to accept only invited to the appointment. Be a part of the
process in working with the audiologist to come
how to Help
to the best solution for your loved one.
Terry has been fitting hearing aids and working
there are several ways that you — with individuals with hearing loss for more than
the family — can help a loved one 20 years. She received her Bachelor of Science
with hearing loss. The first way? Degree from Purdue University in 1985 and her
Don't help at all. Masters of Audiology from the University of South
Carolina in 1990. She is a Fellow of the American
that's right. If you constantly repeat
Academy of Audiology and the American Speech
yourself, raise your voice, or act as a
Language Hearing Association. She has been assist-
messenger, they will become depen- ing patients in a private audiology setting with
dent on you and not seek the profes- Aspen Hearing Center in Denver, Colorado since
sional help they may need. January 2004. Terry can be reached at 303-722-0886.
s p e ctrum / w in t e r 20 1 0 25

26. ADvISOR
Why Buy?
the market is down and selling one’s home isn’t as
easy as it used to be.
So, why not rent instead? You get the same
apartment and same amenities for a monthly
fee instead of a six-figure entry fee. Even better,
“i’ll know it the Moment i See it!” you get to hold on to your savings. If you wish
What type of community is perfect to move out of the community at any time, all
for your parents? you do is give notice and on you go.
By robert Landau, Vice president of Fun Spectrum Retirement Communities has
never asked residents to pay an entry fee.
s O yOu need tO find seniOr Giving people peace of mind during their years
housing that will work for your parents. What in a retirement community should be at the top
do you do now? As we grow older, we want to of everyone’s list. Knowing one can afford to
continue to live in a home-like environment reside there and still have plenty of savings left
that provides us with four basic elements: will make all the difference in the world.
Security, comfort, good food, and socialization. Whatever your folks’ needs may be, there is a
If you think about it, this is what made your community that is perfect for them. You can find
parents’ home so special to them. So it’s impor- out more about what the senior retirement world
tant to find them somewhere new that offers has to offer and how to help your parents make
the same type of surroundings that their home the transition by ordering a complimentary copy
provided for them for so many years. of Spectrum’s helpful booklet A Place Like Home.
TO BUy in OR nOT TO BUy in?
Say you’ve started to visit a few senior retire-
ment communities but one thing kept turning
you off: The buy-in!
A plAce
What’s a buy-in? Many Active Adult/Age like Home
Restricted Communities and Independent
Living Communities charge something called Caring for your aging
a buy-in. Buy-ins—or entry fees as they are parents can be a chal-
sometimes called—are an up-front expense that lenging and emotional
can amount to tens of thousands of dollars and
time. You have so many questions, but
typically require a monthly fee as well. Some-
don’t know where to turn for the answers.
times, you can get a portion back if you choose
to leave the community, but any way you slice it, That is why we wrote A Place Like Home,
buy-in fees can be prohibitively expensive. a comprehensive guide to finding the best
You may think that you’ve found the perfect retirement living option for your parents.
community for your folks when you discover that it This informative booklet is full of great
is necessary to plunk down about $200,000 before ideas and important questions to ask as
they can move in. Would you want them to go you search for the next, and best, move.
through with this? This is the question thousands of
people in a similar position are faced with each and Call 888-684-1160 today for your compli-
every day. The decision becomes even harder when mentary copy of this invaluable resource.
26 w w w . s p e c t r u m r e t i r e m e nt . co m

27. A VArIeTY oF oPTIonS
Where C an yOu g et the infOr m atiOn yOu need ab Ou t Wh at t ype Of
community works best for your folks? The straight facts are a good place to start. The senior housing industry
has done an excellent job providing various living options for different levels of need. To that end, here are some
senior housing classifications to help you out:
ACTive AdULT/AGe ReSTRiCTed ASSiSTed LivinG COMMUniTieS
COMMUniTieS Assisted Living Communities are state-licensed
These are defined as single family or multi-family and provide the same services as Independent
residential properties restricted to adults 55 years of Communities do. Additional bathing, medication
age or older. Most of these communities do not provide reminders, dressing, personal care, and more are all a
meals for their residents. Many offer community space part of the everyday routine here. These services are
and some offer activities programs. provided by the on-site staff as part of the everyday
life routine. Meals are typically served three times a
independenT LivinG COMMUniTieS day and are included in the cost of residing in this type
Independent Living Communities are best defined of community. Housekeeping, maintenance, activities,
as age-restricted multi-family properties. Here transportation, and all meals are also included.
residents are provided with meals, housekeeping,
activities/wellness programs, transportation, and SkiLLed nURSinG
socialization. This is a perfect option for people who No longer called Nursing Homes, this type of living
choose not to—or no longer can—cook or drive. option has come a long way in a short time. Today’s
These services are provided while one’s independence Skilled Nursing facilities are convalescent in nature and
is respected and encouraged. Independent residents a good fit for those who might also require acute care.
that may end up needing services that deal with daily
living such as bathing or medication reminders have
the option of contracting with home health care
in terms of cost, is it always
providers on an individual pay basis.
month-to-month?
Great strides have been made to make independent ACtive Adult/Age RestRiCted Assisted living Communities
living communities look and feel like a comfortable Communities And independent And skilled
living Communities nuRsing Communities
resort with friendly staff who cater to the residents’
every need. Studies now prove that Independent Typically a buy-in A monthly fee that
(or entry fee) as well varies depending on
Living activities and wellness programs keep people as a monthly fee a resident’s needs
younger because of the worry-free lifestyle.
s p e ct rum / w in t e r 20 1 0 27

28. “He made the rigHt decisions
for me, now it’s my turn. ”
Perfectly appointed communities, affordable month-to-month senior living with no
expensive buy-in, flexibility and choice...you’ll live life to the fullest!
Northeast Communities Northwest Communities
Gardens at Westlake | Westlake, OH Cedar Village | Salem, OR
Maple Heights | Allen Park, MI Ocean Crest | Coos Bay, OR
Parkrose Estates | Liverpool, NY Ocean Ridge | Coos Bay, OR
Pine Ridge Garfield | Clinton Twp., MI Pheasant Pointe | Molalla, OR
Pine Ridge Hayes | Sterling Heights, MI Redwood Heights | Salem, OR
Pine Ridge Plumbrook | Sterling Heights, MI Clearwater Springs | Vancouver, WA
Pine Ridge Villas of Shelby | Shelby Twp., MI
West Communities
Midwest Communities Lakeview | Lakewood, CO
Crestview | Crestwood, MO Lincoln Meadows | Parker, CO
Homestead at Hickory View | Washington, MO Rigden Farm | Ft. Collins, CO
Park Meadows | Overland Park, KS
Shawnee Hills | Shawnee, KS
Spectrum Retirement Communities
Please call or visit today:
888.516.2188
www.SpectrumRetirement.com
Managed by Spectrum Retirement Communities LLC
Spectrum Magazine Ad Oct 2009