Read the latest news and program updates from the Adult Day Center at Somerset Hills

Monthly News and Updates - Summer 2018 
At the Adult Day Center (ADC), loved ones, including those with Alzheimer's disease and dementia, can spend an enjoyable day with our caring family. For caregivers, our program offers a much-needed break from daily caregiving stress and responsibilities.
Upcoming Special Event!

Free Presentation by Alzheimer's NJ
Communication Tips and Techniques in Alzheimer's Disease

Date:                 Thursday, September 13, 2018
Time:                 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm   Mingle and enjoy a light dinner
                          6:30 pm - 7:30 pm   Presentation
Location:          VNA of Somerset Hills

Registration required:   Alzheimer's NJ  888-280-6055 or VNA of Somerset Hills 908-766-0180
Volunteer Spotlight  
By Jansyn Tropea, ADC Activities Manager 
  
Long-time ADC volunteer, Kiem Oei (center) is joined by two members.
On July 12th, the VNA of Somerset Hills hosted an organization-wide Volunteer Appreciation Reception honoring all of its terrific volunteers from the past year. The reception was held at the beautiful Studio 7 Art Gallery in Bernardsville, and was well attended by our fantastic and enthusiastic Adult Day Center volunteers.

Kudos to all of our volunteers and a job well done!

Horticulture Therapy Has Benefits for Adults with Dementia 
 
Horticulture has been proven to provide many benefits for adults with dementia including increased physical activity, improved attention, socialization, empowerment and reduction in stress. 

We are fortunate to have Certified Horticultural Therapist, Amanda Rodriguez, join us monthly for a customized horticulture program. Amanda executes a varied program of activities ranging from planting seeds, arranging live and cut plants, and even painting and crafting with natural plant materials. All sessions are accompanied by background information on the materials used.
 
In addition to formal therapy, the ADC provides benefits utilizing our enclosed garden whenever weather permits. Members plant, cultivate and harvest our raised beds. The planters are filled with native butterfly-attracting plants, flowers, vegetables and herbs throughout the spring, summer and fall.  In addition to maintain the beds, members enjoy socializing and viewing the plantings provided by the Basking Ridge Garden Club.

For more on the benefits of Horticulture Therapy, please visit https://tuscangardens.com/blog/how-seniors-reap-the-benefits-of-therapeutic-gardening.
 
Common Signs of Dehydration
From the Nurse's Desk 
 
Did you know the human body is made up of approximately 70-percent water? It makes sense, then, that fluids are vital for the majority of our bodily functions-protecting our joints, maintaining organ function, transporting oxygen to cells, and sustaining body temperature. The body can become dehydrated fairly quickly due to excess perspiration, hot weather, sun exposure, and lack of fluids throughout the day.

Risk Factors:
Seniors in particular have certain risk factors that may make them more susceptible to dehydration.  Seniors may have reduced thirst signals, may have increased memory problems, causing them to forget when they last drank fluids, and may be taking medications that may contribute to risk of dehydration, just to name a few.  
  
Symptoms:
Dehydration can sneak up on you and your loved ones during these hot and humid summer months, so it's best to be aware of the symptoms to be able to stop its progression.  Here are a few of the most common symptoms:
  • Fatigue
  • Light headedness
  • Heart rate increases
  • Muscle cramps
  • Headaches
Knowing your risk factors and symptoms is a good start to preventing dehydration.  For more information on diagnosing and treating dehydration please consult your physician.


Source: activebeat.com; betterhealthwhileaging.net
Mark your Calendar: VNA Fall Rummage Sale

Sale Dates:
Friday, October 5  9:30 am - 3:30 pm
Saturday, October 6  9:30 am - 3:30 pm
Sunday, October 7 12:30 pm - 3:30 pm

Donations:
September 8-25
10 am - 1 pm, Monday - Saturday

For more information: visitingnurse.org 
Adult Day Center at Somerset Hills | 908-766-0180 |  visitingnurse.org

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