Page 17 - Valley Life & Health

THE MORNING CALL SATURDAY, JULY 27, 2019 17
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The benefits of like the sound of flowing water or the sight of birds Exposure to natural light is powerful, and people
eating at a feeder can easily break up the daily routine
who spend lots of time outdoors can recover
seniors getting and offer mental and spiritual relief for seniors. from injuries faster.
5. Being outside helps seniors improve focus.
In addition to helping to add some freshness to
everyday life, getting outdoors also encourages seniors
Being outdoors gives the brain a break from everyday
outin natureoutin nature to increase their physical and mental activity levels, multitasking and allows it to form new memories and
which, in turn, can contribute to warding off things like
heal itself from over-extension. This contributes to
dementia, cognitive decline, immobility, and disease.
higher attention levels and improved mental health.
This, perhaps, is one of the largest benefits of
getting outdoors for senior. Simply sitting in a green
etting outdoors is important for people of all space or listening to the sound of falling water helps
ages and walks of life. In addition to wiping the people feel more alive, and for seniors who struggle Where to get outsideWhere to get outside
Ginternal slate clean, lifting our spirits, and giving with depression or feelings of hopelessness, this is an
in th
us a chance to reconnect with life’s most important immeasurable gift. in the Lehigh Valleye Lehigh Valley
things, getting outdoors is a great way to relax and 5 Facts about outdoor exposure or seniors
take peace from the natural beauty that surrounds us. 1. Being outside boosts vitamin D levels. The Lehigh Valley is loaded with opportunities to get
While being outdoors is critical for all people, it’s Vitamin D is directly related to an improved immune outdoors. The Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage
especially essential for seniors. system and a more positive outlook. Spending about Corridor, known as the D&L Trail, is one of the best of
Recently, research conducted by the graduate 15 minutes of time each day in the sun is an ideal way them. A good place to start is the mostly flat section
students at the University of Minnesota proved that for seniors to boost their vitamin D levels. between Bethlehem and Easton.
green, outdoor spaces have the potential to improve 2. Nature can help boost immunity. Other opportunities include Jacobsburg State
the health and wellbeing of seniors. By helping seniors feel more positive and increasing Park in Nazareth, the Allentown Rose Gardens,
With these results in mind, it’s clear that getting mental health, the great outdoors help seniors build Trexler Memorial Park in Allentown, the Saucon
outdoors on a regular basis is an incredibly important and maintain healthy immune systems. Rail Trail, Illick’s Mill Park in Bethlehem, and
step for seniors who want to safeguard their health 3. Being outside helps seniors feel Cedar Beach Park in Allentown. There is also
and live a more fulfilled life. more energized. the Wildlands Conservancy in Emmaus and the
Why getting outside matters Tired? Take a walk! Getting outside is a great way Trexler Nature Preserve at the Lehigh Valley Zoo
Without the experience of getting outside, for sluggish seniors to feel more active. in Schnecksville.
monotony goes unbroken and can enact an adverse 4. People who spend time outside recover Source: CommHealthCare and The Morning Call
impact on the senior’s happiness. Luckily, simple things from injuries faster.

Coffee Clutch

SOCIAL TIME AT THE TERRACE

AT PHOEBE ALLENTOWN PROVIDES
A SENSE OF BELONGING
Photo courtesy of The Terrace at Phoebe Allentown
ocializing: It’s for people ages two to 102. Many resident Irene Bigatel – and the group only grew nights, scheduled activities aren’t all that’s happening
of us understand the importance of encourag- from there. at the independent living community. Residents often
Sing younger generations to socialize, but it’s easy “This is a good place to meet people. It breaks organically start their own social activity groups based
to overlook the importance of socialization for older the ice with newcomers,” says Charlie, who enjoys the on common interests, and because life at the Terrace
adults. Human nature leads us to crave sharing inter- social aspect of the group. frees residents from the burden of home maintenance
ests, stories and overall connection with other people. The size of the group varies on any given day, and housekeeping, it provides them with ample time to
As we age, however – particularly if we’re transitioning but frequently includes fellow residents Joyce Schelly, attended as many events as they’d like.
from one phase of life to the next – life circumstances Harry Hebig and Albert Fraind. They all look forward Residents at the Terrace never have to look
can push us toward loneliness or isolation unless we to the opportunity to share their common interests, far to find new ways to pursue their interests or
take steps to cultivate new relationships. which has allowed them to develop a lasting bond over connect with one another in the community which
At the Terrace at Phoebe Allentown, one group of the years. Each day’s coffee and tea meeting is also a features several common spaces, a fitness center,
residents – led by resident Charlie Geheb – has taken precursor to other social events they all take part in. social room, and beautiful restaurant style dining
steps to encourage interaction among neighbors and to “There are more activities here than you can room. Residents also enjoy the luxury of venturing
make the transition into a new community a welcoming fit into a week!” says Joyce. “There’s a lot of good into the city as they please. The Terrace at Phoebe
experience for newcomers. entertainment, including some great singers and Allentown is where active adults are truly making
The group, known unofficially as the “Coffee musical groups.” their seniors years their best years!
Clutch,” has a standing date every morning at 8 a.m. The Terrace is a True Community The Terrace at Phoebe Allentown, 1940 W. Turner
in The Terrace lounge, which just happens to be off of Event calendars at all of Phoebe’s communities are Street, Allentown, PA 18104
the lobby where visitors first come through and where numerous, full and ever changing. At each campus and SCHEDULE A TOUR
staff and other residents frequently pass by. When level of care, there are both scheduled and impromptu Tours are available weekdays, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.; week-
Charlie moved to The Terrace in 2015, he decided to events that happen daily – all created for (and often day evenings and weekends by appointment.
move his morning coffee routine from his apartment by) residents. From musical performances and happy Contact: Mitch Huston, Sales Coordinator, 610-794-5426
down to the first floor. He was soon joined by fellow hour to board game nights, Wii bowling and movie or Quinn Kolbe, Sales Associate, 215-461-2121.