Century Park Blog
Century Park exists to serve each resident that blesses us with his or her presence. We celebrate these residents through Life in Progress – a blog dedicated to highlighting the unique qualities and beautiful memories that shape their lives, along with expert tips for seniors.
Indoor Activities for Seniors in Winter
Here are some ideas for how you can keep your body and brain active during these cold months.
2020 Vision
The main question for the beginning of the year is – what is your New Year’s resolution?
Christmas Around Century Park
Century Park communities spread Christmas cheer by bringing family, friends and communities together with wonderful Christmas events.
Century Park 2019 Christmas Card Winners
Each year, Century Park Associates invites residents in its communities to submit Christmas card designs.
Holiday hustles: 10 scams to avoid this season
Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
Fight the Flu!
There are several defense strategies you can do to prevent this nasty virus from attacking you.
Resident Voices – What Was The Best Vacation You Ever Took?
We asked residents all over the country about their best vacations ever.
Go with Your Gut
The wellness of your brain and body depend on your gut health. There are good and bad bacteria, and you need a balance of both.
Veterans Honored at Cherry Creek
Eight residents at Cherry Creek Retirement Village in Aurora, Colorado, are proud veterans. Combined, they have 49.5 years of service.
Diabetes Awareness Month
Whether you know a loved one who has diabetes or you have it yourself, managing blood sugar levels is important to everyone’s health.
Monthly Going The Extra Mile Winners
Century Park Associates’ Going the Extra Mile program honors associates who go beyond their job descriptions in caring for residents.
Residents at Garden Plaza of Greenbriar Cove reflect on community’s 10 years
Garden Plaza of Greenbriar Cove, an independent living community in Ooltewah, Tennessee, is about to celebrate its 10-year anniversary.
National Assisted Living Week 2019 – A Spark of Creativity
Each year Century Park’s assisted living communities participate in a nationwide campaign known as National Assisted Living Week.
Garden Plaza at Cleveland business office director on mission to help foster kids
Curry is on a mission, besides serving the seniors at Garden Plaza, to remove some of the trauma that foster children experience.
Century Park Communities Participate in Walk to End Alzheimer’s
We're excited to once again join in the fight against Alzheimer’s as a Walk to End Alzheimer's National Team.
Resident Voices - What Historical Event Affected You Most?
We asked residents all over the country about the historical events that shaped their lives.
A Spark of Creativity - Veldonna Armstrong
If you visit Veldonna Armstrong at Garden Plaza of Post Falls, Idaho, you will quickly be struck by her creative spirit.
A Spark of Creativity - Mabel Payne
Mabel Payne has loved gardening since she was a child. Her mother would always say, “If there aren’t flowers in the house, it isn’t a home.”
A Spark of Creativity - Nolen Kelly
Nolen Kelly has a spark of passion for helping others.
A Spark of Creativity - James “Jim” Birdwell
Jim Birdwell, who first became a clown in 1996, is a source of fun and creativity at Quail Ridge assisted living in Pocatello, Idaho.
A Spark of Creativity - Janie Gass
In the eyes of Janie Gass, writing is more than just a creative outlet. It is a way of sharing her heart with the world.
A Spark of Creativity - Hope Cresswell
Hope Cresswell showcases her spark of creativity through her beautiful artwork.
A Spark of Creativity - Chuck and Becky Everitt
Becky and Chuck continue to spark creativity in themselves and in their fellow residents at The Bridge at Longmont.
Five Essential Elements to Healthy Aging
Throughout every moment of life, intentionally set aside time to take care of yourself.
Fuel the Fire: Eat Carbs, Weigh Less, Live Longer
Don’t fall victim to the latest fads and diet rage; just focus on whole foods as your primary source of calories!
Century Park Communities Celebrate National Ice Cream Day
This month, our communities celebrated National Ice Cream Day on Sunday, July 21.
Cascade Park residents honor loved ones at Willamette National Cemetery
A group of residents from Cascade Park in Woodburn, Oregon, made the trip to Willamette National Cemetery.
Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is a healthy food that tastes good, so enjoy in moderation!
Going the Extra Mile April 2019 Winners
Going the Extra Mile honors associates who go beyond their job descriptions in caring for residents and associates.
Crossing the Finish Line
Executive director, Lori Follett and resident, Kenny Bisel from The Bridge at Greeley recently ran a 1K together.
Resident assistant at Garden Plaza of Cleveland wins regional customer service award
“I would do anything I could for the residents – they are my adopted family.”
Century Park Communities Celebrate National Strawberry Shortcake Day
Our communities celebrated National Strawberry Shortcake Day on Friday, June 14.
Health risks for men, and how to avoid them
June is Men’s Health Month, and people around the globe are working to raise awareness of preventable and treatable health problems.
Certified nursing assistant at Pointe Frontier wins Century Park’s customer service award
Janet Garcia, a certified nursing assistant at Pointe Frontier, recently won Century Park's annual customer service award.
The Many Faces of Arthritis
For some, it’s a constant, achy pain. For others, it’s a swelling stiffness in the morning.
Century Park Communities Celebrate National BBQ Day
This month, our communities celebrated National BBQ Day on Thursday, May 16.
MONTHLY GOING THE EXTRA MILE WINNERS
We recently recognized our monthly Going The Extra Mile customer service award winners. This award recognizes outstanding associates.
Garden Plaza of Aurora resident shares his Pearl Harbor experience
John Clement, a resident at Garden Plaza of Aurora, Colorado lived in Honolulu, Hawaii during the infamous Pearl Harbor attack of WWII.
Garden Plaza at Cleveland and Garden Plaza of Greenbriar Cove Compete In Cornhole Tournament
On March 13, 2019, residents from two Tennessee communities competed in a corn hole competition!
CENTURY PARK COMMUNITIES CELEBRATE NATIONAL GRILLED CHEESE DAY
This month, our communities celebrated National Grilled Cheese Day on Friday, April 12.
What is stress, and how can you manage it?
National Stress Awareness Day is April 16. On this day, we can mindfully set aside time to recognize the stressors we combat daily.
We love our pets!
In celebration of National Pet Day, we wanted to honor our loyal pals by sharing about how wonderful they are with the world!
Century Park Communities Celebrate National Crunchy Taco Day
This month, our communities celebrated National Crunch Taco Day on Monday, March 18.
The Bridge at Paradise Valley residents tour chocolate factory
Seven residents from The Bridge at Paradise Valley in Las Vegas took a sweet trip to the Ethel M. Chocolate Factory.
Resident Voices - Growing Older
What is the hardest thing about growing older? What is the best thing about growing older?
Spring Has Sprung
Just as the clocks spring forward, you too can spring into action and seize the opportunities for the fun the upcoming season has to offer.
Gather round the global campfire for World Storytelling Day
Celebrate World Storytelling Day by reading stories of Century Park residents!
St. Patrick’s Day – More than Wearing Green
There's more to this lucky holiday than wearing green!
This March, Be Proactive About Your Eye Health
March is Save Your Vision Month and Workplace Eye Wellness Month, so here are three simple ways you can keep your eyes healthy.
BREAKING NEWS! - The Inn at Garden Plaza Visits KKTV Channel 11
KKTV Channel 11, a local news station in Colorado, welcomed the residents as they learned about TV news and weather.
Garden Plaza of Aurora hosts Abraham Lincoln event
John Voehl, an Abraham Lincoln historian visited Garden Plaza of Aurora on Feb. 19, 2019
Century Park Communities Celebrate National Pancake Day
This month, our communities celebrated National Pancake Day on Thursday, February 21.
Eye Care and the Elderly: Bringing It into Focus
Because we want to live a fun and active lifestyle, even as we age, it is important to take care of our eyes.
Garden Plaza and The Bridge at Inverrary implement safety bingo program for associates
Garden Plaza and The Bridge at Inverrary are implementing a creative way to remind employees of the importance of an injury-fee workplace.
Soundtrack to Your Valentine's Day
We have compiled a list of five love songs that you can indulge in throughout Valentine’s Day without spending a dime.
Show Your Heart Some Love
Show your heart some love by celebrating American Heart Month and spreading the news about heart health awareness.
Four Everyday Ways to Help Prevent Cancer
Here are four everyday lifestyle choices you can make to help reduce your risk of cancer.
Super Snacks for Seniors on Super Bowl Sunday – and Every Other Day
While we watch the big game on Sunday, we will eat. But as we age, it is important for us to snack smart
Century Park Communities Celebrate National Pie Day
This month, our communities celebrated National Pie Day on Wednesday, January 23.
Century Park Communities Celebrate National Food Days
In 2019, Century Park communities all over the country will be celebrating various national food days each month.
What is glaucoma?
January is Glaucoma Awareness Month. Glaucoma is common, affecting nearly two million people each year.
5 Foods That Promote Thyroid Health
Incorporating some of these foods into your diet can help sustain long-term thyroid health and keep your thyroid running smoothly.
The Body’s Waterwheel
Because every system in the body depends on water, there is a real need for constant hydration.
A Lasting Smile: How Seniors Can Keep their Pearly Whites
Seniors especially face challenges with dental care and should be intentional about maintaining the health of their teeth and gums.
Monthly Going The Extra Mile Winners
We recently recognized our monthly Going The Extra Mile customer service award winners. This award recognizes outstanding associates.
Health Myths: BUSTED
While everyone’s health journey is different, it’s important to make sure you’re getting your health information from reliable sources.
Staying Active This Winter
What better way to beat the winter blues than to enjoy an active lifestyle?
Beanie Babies: Cascade Park donates baby hats with love in every stich
Five sweet ladies from Cascade Park turned their passion into purpose when they decided to knit and crochet hats for babies.
Century Park's 2018 Christmas Card Winners- Bette Higgins
Bette Higgins, a resident at The Bridge at Ooltewah, recently had her artwork featured on a Christmas card.
Century Park's 2018 Christmas Card Winners - June Hamm
June Hamm, a resident at The Inn at Garden Plaza, recently had her artwork featured on a Christmas card.
Century Park's 2018 Christmas Card Winners - Lynn Evans Mand
Lynn Evans Mand, a resident at The AbbeWood, an assisted living facility in Elyria, recently had her artwork featured on a Christmas card.
Century Park’s 2018 Christmas Card Winners - Dolores Sunley
Dolores Sunley, a resident at The Bridge at Hickory Woods, recently had her artwork featured on a Christmas card.
Facing the diabetes epidemic: What you need to know
Several risk factors play a part in developing diabetes. Do you know the signs?
Why You Should Consider Eating More This Holiday
The stress you may feel about trying to eat healthy around the holidays can be far more toxic than the food you eat.
Holiday Shopping Tips
The holiday season is quickly approaching, which means you might find yourself shopping more than usual.
Holiday Travel Guide – Travel Smarter, Not Harder
To help you prepare for the holidays, our teams across the country have compiled a list of holiday travel tips for you!
Five Nutrition Tips to Power and Protect Your Brain
Here are some simple nutrition tips that promise optimal brain health and strengthen the preventive power against Alzheimer’s disease.
Home safety tips for seniors
Seniors can take several easy steps to reduce their chance of falling and keep their home environment safe.
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The Bridge at Colorado Springs associate wins CHCA’s Caregiver of the Year Award
Doris Smith, resident care coordinator, won the Colorado Health Care Association’s Caregiver of the Year Award
Immunizations for Seniors – A Shot at a Healthy, Active Life
Seniors should be aware of the steps they can take to stay healthy through immunizations.
The Nightmare on Sweet Street – A Halloween Guide to Healthy Snacking
There are plenty of healthy snacking alternatives to enjoy with your Halloween festivities!
Resident Voices - Halloween treats
Our residents reflected on Trick-or-treating as kids, and shared what their favorite Halloween candy is.
Anxious about anxiety?
Everyone is bound to have a little anxiety every so often, but prevention and treatment can put anxiety in its place!
World Osteoporosis Day
Bones play an integral role in our everyday lives, and it is never too late to seek guidance regarding your bone health.
An Evening in France
When a resident dreamed of returning to her home in Paris, France, the team at Garden Plaza decided to bring France to her.
Bill Millard: Carving a Legacy
For Bill, carving is more than a hobby. It has become a creative outlet and also has given him purpose.
Outsmarting the Storm
When Hurricane Florence slammed into the East Coast, The Bridge at Charleston was ready.
Welcome, Goldwings!
An adrenaline rush can come from anything. At The Bridge at Colorado Springs in Colorado, residents get that thrill from motorcycle rides.
Weighing in on hydration: Eight ounces at a time
Dehydration is also the leading cause of daytime fatigue. The solution is water.
Striking Gold
All that it takes to become a national champion is a good bowling ball that fits your hand correctly and a lot of practice.
Resident Voices - Grandparents
What was the best advice you ever received from your grandmother or grandfather?
Coping with Alzheimer’s disease
Learning the signs of Alzheimer's can help get your loved one the care he or she needs.
Capture The Moment - Lynn Evans Mand
Music has allowed Lynn Evans Mand of The AbbeWood in Elyria, Ohio, to truly capture the moment.
Capture The Moment - Jack Markey
When you’re happy, the moments seem to last forever. Jack Markey lives a life full of leadership and happiness.
Capture The Moment - Bud and Bea Degnan
For two married residents at The Bridge at Garden Plaza of Post Falls, Idaho, one moment in 1926 was just the start.
Seniors and Loneliness: Combating Isolation
Throughout the aging process, seniors may begin to feel left out of social circles and are especially vulnerable to feelings of loneliness.
Bridging the Gap in Ocala
The Bridge’s intergenerational program began after the children at Kinderoo Academy created birthday cards for the residents each month.
What's In Your Coffee
Understanding how caffeine affects your brain and natural energy processes can make a difference.
Stop the Sepsis: Recognizing Symptoms and Preventing Sickness
If you are well-informed about sepsis, you will easily recognize symptoms and be aware of opportunities to prevent the illness.
Cooking to Order
Century Park’s culinary teams strive to step up retirement living dining by cooking to order.
10 Simple Tips for a Healthy Summer
Take time to remember these 10 simple yet effective tips to ensure you have a healthy summer.
Well How Do You Start The Thing?!
We at Century Park Associates thank Mr. Barnard and all of our servicemen and women for defending our freedom!
Going The Extra Mile - Regional Winners
This award recognizes outstanding associates who have gone above and beyond their job description to serve.
Punching out Parkinson’s: How Exercise Helps Parkinson’s Patients Succeed
Westside Garden Plaza is helping patients punch out Parkinson’s – literally.
Aging with Ease: A Fitness Guide for Wiser Men
In honor of Men’s Health Month, here are some helpful tips for men to keep living with the same level of activity that they’re used to.
Resident Voices - The Movies
The movie-watching experience has changed quite a bit since our residents were kids. We wanted to hear about their first movie experience.
Bridgett Dallas Wins Century Park's Customer Service Award
Bridgett Dallas was awarded as this year’s Going the Extra Mile winner from among Century Park’s more than 40 communities nationwide.
Support Your Bones Today - They'll Support You Tomorrow
May is Osteoporosis Awareness Month, a good time to evaluate your food choices and exercise lifestyle.
Lilia Rodriguez: Eager to Educate
Lilia looks back knowing that she lived a great life with her family while also leaving her legacy as a teacher.
Mother’s Day Traditions from Around the World
Learn about some of the history, traditions and fun facts about Mother's Day!
Clearing The Air About COPD
Recognizing this disease and getting help early can make a huge difference and allow a better and longer quality of life.
Going the Extra Mile Spotlight
Here are some of the inspiring stories from our January and February 2018 Going the Extra Mile winners
The Ins and Outs of Health Apps
The key is not relying solely on the device. It is your job to sustain the healthy behaviors after the device is turned off or out of sight.
The ABCs of Vitamins - Vitamin B
Up next in our series is vitamin B. Let’s explore this vitamin in detail.
The ABCs of Vitamins – Vitamin A
When it comes to Vitamin A, as with nutrition in general, simple balance is the way to go.
How to Successfully Downsize
Know that this feeling of being overwhelmed can be turned around into a feeling of release.
Farm to Fork
With our “Farm to Fork” program, we try to paint a picture in your imagination of simpler times with better, fresher food.
The Witness: Rosa Lee Floyd
Today, Rosa Lee believes it’s her responsibility to bear witness to what life was like before and during the Civil Rights Movement.
Turning Heart Failure Into Heart Success
February is National Heart Month, a good opportunity to take inventory of your heart health.
Taking Away the Pain
The ladies at Garden Plaza at Cleveland create heart-shaped pillows for those who have undergone a medical procedure.
A Number of Reasons for Love
The Millers shared that the secret to the longevity of their love is because they have the Lord Jesus as the center of their lives.
Aging as a Sign of Strength
Strength training works to combat the signs and symptoms of existing health problems and can prevent you from developing other conditions.
Questions to maximize your next doctor’s appointment
While it seems that time with your doctor may be increasingly limited, it’s important to come into your appointment prepared with questions.
The Fall of Focus and How to Reclaim It
If you find yourself struggling with concentration or focus, here are a few things you can do to retrain your mind and rebuild your focus.
Resident Voices - Nicknames
Whether they're sentimental or funny, strange or fitting, nicknames have a history. Our residents weighed in on how they received theirs.
David Aichele - Looking To The Sky
David’s love of the sky began when he was a child, and even after retiring from NASA, the sky was not finished amazing him.
Health At All Ages: The Key to Enjoying Life’s Moments
Want the chance to spend more time with their loved ones? Simple nutrition, exercise and lifestyle choices may help you do just that.
Happy New Year!
I love starting fresh in the new year with new goals, new resolutions or as some would say, “a do-over.”
Century Park Residents Reach Out To Community At Christmas
Amidst all the business of Christmas, many of our Century Park residents make time to give to those in need.
Nuts for Nutrition!
Some holiday favorites are rather unhealthy. We’d like to shine a light on one of the popular holiday snacks that can actually be healthy!
Navy Veteran Honored by City of Lauderhill
The city of Lauderhill, Florida, recently honored Simon Growick for his service in the U. S. military.
TAKING THE STRESS OFF FAMILY CAREGIVING
For a family caregiver, stress is a common mask that can alter your ability to see the joy in caring for your loved one.
Thoughts of Thankfulness
As Thanksgiving approaches, Century Park residents around the country spent some time reflecting on what they are most thankful for.
Veterans Honored at Cherry Creek Retirement Village
Multiple residents were honored on Veterans Day at Cherry Creek Retirement Village for their service to our country.
A Knight To Remember On Veterans Day
Century Park communities are honored to be home to many veterans who have sacrificed and served our country.
Halloween at Century Park
Century Park residents and associates across the country enjoyed celebrating Halloween in our senior living communities.
Don Summers – From one boat to another
The riverboats Don Summer captained in St. Louis and New Orleans were the hot spot for dancing, eating and partying.
Finding The Can In Cancer
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which makes it the perfect time to start learning what you can do for this cause.
Sunny Rush Named Caregiver of the Year
On Sept. 29, the Colorado Health Care Association named Sunny Rush its Assisted Living Caregiver of the Year.
Physical Therapy: Get Back to What Matters
Ultimately, the goal of physical therapy is to help people restore or maintain their maximum level of independence.
Remember
We dedicate this tribute to those living with Alzheimer's, their caretakers and the residents in our care who may one day be diagnosed.
What Fall Means To Me: Family, Food And Fond Memories
Growing up in upstate New York, I have some great memories of our family coming together during the fall to celebrate many things.
Family is Forever - Joseph Kordek
For Joseph Kordek, working with the land and tending to the soil is not a burden but a blessing.
Family is Forever - Jack and Frances Abbott
Jack and Frances Abbott, 89- and 88-year-old residents at Westside Garden Plaza in Indianapolis, have made family everywhere they go.
Family is Forever - Selma Bird and Lillian Roll
Century Park Associates is excited to kick off National Assisted Living Week 2017 with Grandparents Day.
Beautifully Balanced: Preventing Falls Among the Elderly
Following these tips can help you avoid painful and costly falls. That may enable you to stay active and enjoy a long and injury-free life.
Fighting Alzheimer’s with Selfies
Cascade Park Retirement Community recently hosted a luau as part of an effort to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Association.
A House of Wishes
This summer, Westside Garden Plaza resident Mina Collier had her wish granted.
Managing Your Medications
Medicine is definitely a blessing. Used correctly, it can correct physiological problems, save lives and generally make us feel better.
Garden Plaza of Greenbriar Cove receptionist uses stroke experience to help others
Corinne Stanton gives credit to the Lord, a dedicated doctor and a “popcorn angel” for saving her life.
The Doors God Opens
When Martin shares the stories of how she came to be chaplain of Cottesmore, she sees how one open door always led to another.
Keep It Moving!
For overall wellness, activity is a must. Find something you enjoy, and just do it!
A Heads-Up On Headaches
What are headaches and migraines, and how can we lessen the effect they have on our lives?
Margaret Christenson
Christenson is constantly engaging her mind and finding innovative solutions for her friends at The Bridge.
Father's Day Advice
Our residents shared memories of their own fathers and the best advice they received over the years.
Down To Earth: The Benefits Of A Garden
Gardening strengthens muscles and bones, relaxes muscles and helps prevent diseases such as osteoporosis.
Kristie Tucker Goes the Extra Mile for Her Residents
This year, Kristie Tucker was chosen as the overall winner of Century Park’s Going the Extra Mile award from more than 40 communities.
A Bridge of Honor: How A Century Park Community Pays Tribute to Those Who Served
Century Park Associates is incredibly proud of all of our veterans and thankful to those who gave their lives in service.
Inside an Aurora independent living community, the Happy Hookers knit for the needy
A love for knitting and crafting is the common thread that has pulled a group of Aurora women together for several hours each day.
Speech-Language Pathology: Living Life Connected
May is here, and that means Better Hearing and Speech Month!
Mother's Day Advice
Our residents shared memories of their own mothers and the best advice they received over the years.
The Many Faces of Arthritis
May is National Arthritis Awareness Month, a time for advocacy and education on the topic.
Emily McDonald: A Journalist's Heart
Journalists live a life full of networking and finding out the details, but they each do it in their own way.
Occupational Therapy: Live Life To Its Fullest!
April is Occupational Therapy Month! With spring in full swing, it’s a great opportunity to learn how occupational therapy can help you.
Live Longer, Live With Purpose
It’s possible that a healthy dose of purpose and self-determination could have a significant influence on your longevity.
Jerry and Elaine Ramsey
Over time, things have certainly changed for Jerry and Elaine, but they have found their way to keep connected: technology.
Graham Witherspoon: Author, Poet and Artist
Witherspoon is not just a sailor, but someone who continues to write, paint, philosophize, care, share and believe.
Become An Educated Buyer: A Guide To Food Labeling
It’s national nutrition month and a great opportunity to learn how to become an educated buyer.
Cold or flu?
Because these two types of illnesses have similar symptoms, it can be difficult to tell the difference between them.
Antioxidants - Fad or Friend?
We've all heard about the wonders of antioxidants. But what are they? What do they do?
Shining A Light on Depression
Like a late-night fog, depression can roll into your life without warning, enveloping your mind with anxiety and uncertainty.
Loving Your Heart On Valentine's Day
This Valentine’s Day, whether you’re celebrating with loved ones or on your own, don’t forget to show your own heart some love, too.
Reprogramming Cravings
It is possible to reprogram your cravings. You don't have to change all at once. It's all about your small choices every day.
Know your thyroid
Ever wonder how your body temp is regulated or how you gain the correct amount of energy from your food? Go ahead and thank your thyroid.
Make A Decision To Protect Your Vision
This month, Glaucoma Awareness Month, Century Park Associates wants to help prevent the progression of this devastating disease.
Harbor Place at Cottesmore resident reflects on adventure as World War II medic
At Okinawa, Hart's battalion rendered aid to casualties as the 27th attacked another ridge not far from Hacksaw Ridge.
3 New Year's Resolutions For Seniors
Your later years present different challenges that can be combatted with tangible goals and resolutions.
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