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While we can tell you about all the wonderful things Hertlin House has to provide its residents, we’d love for you to hear from them personally.  Their stories, their experiences are all different but share one common theme, “Love at first sight”.  Today we want you to meet Jaye Kudlo, a former purchasing agent from Brooklyn, NY.  Jaye has been here for a year and a half and has lots to say about her time here and why she chose Hertlin House as her new home.

How did you hear about Hertlin House? My daughter who lives locally told me about how great it is here.

How many years have you been a resident at Hertlin House? I have been here for a year and a half.

What was you first reaction when you moved-in? Honestly, I fell in love with it!!

What makes Hertlin House special for you? There is so much to do here and the environment allows you to be as private or active as you like. So if one day you want to play cards with the gang and the next you want alone time, your able to do so.

How has being a part of the Hertlin House community changed your life for the better? Since moving to Hertlin House I am more active now because there is always something to do here.  Every day I find something new. Sometimes you just never know what to expect, but it’s a good time.

What is your favorite Hertlin House activity or program? Why? I like bingo and poker the most but the parties are always lots of fun.  There’s nothing like having a good time with good people.

What is your favorite time of the year? Why? Spring and summer are my favorite times of year here because I love the great weather. I think many residents here feel that way too.  I don’t like the cold weather but luckily we have lots of indoor activities to keep us busy through the winter.

What is your favorite meal/food/plate at Hertlin House? I think I would have to say that the chicken here is my favorite, sometimes it’s really hard to choose. It’s all really very good!

What were your main reasons for thinking about a senior living community in the first place? Before I moved to Hertlin House I lived in an apartment complex in Medford. I didn’t want to be isolated in an apartment and unable to drive anymore, so I decided a retirement community would be perfect.  Socialization was the most important factor in making my decision.

What advice do you have for NEW residents? I would tell a new resident to be sociable and mingle with the other residents. Everyone here is welcoming and friendly, you are bound to make long lasting friendships here.

As you can see many of our residents enjoy the accommodations we offer, so no matter what you choose to do or what your mood, you will always have something to do here.  While many choose Hertlin House because of our beautiful landscape, many have factors more important in their decision making.   At Hertlin House we pride ourselves in providing an atmosphere that makes everyone comfortable and free to socialize and have a good time.

Age is nothing but a number and fun times have no age limit!

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Today we want to introduce you to Domenick Scarcella, a former electrical worker from Roccolar, Italy in the Province of Messina. He is another wonderful resident here at Hertlin House and while only here for less than a year his experience has been wonderful. We hope that you can learn more about the community at Hertlin House and much more from Domenick.

Do you have Children? Grandchildren? Yes I have 2 wonderful boys John & Louis, 5 grandchildren. I even have 3 great-grandchildren, finding it hard to keep count!

How did you hear about Hertlin House? Well, my sons John and Louis toured Hertlin House with me one day and immediately decided that this was the place to live.

What was you first reaction when you moved-in? I liked it at first sight, it’s amazing here!

What makes Hertlin House special for you? I have made good friends and I am keeping busy, both very important things to me.

How was being a part Hertlin House community changed your life for the better? I must say that the best part is that I am continuing to live independently.  I live on own my but I am surrounded by great friends and lots of help when I need it.

What is your favorite Hertlin House activity or program? Why? My favorite game to play is Pokeno, especially when I win.  I also like the special events here; we always have lots of fun together.

What is your favorite time of the year? Why? I like it here most in the spring because of the nice weather.  The spring lets you enjoy the outdoors and enjoy the scenery.

What is your favorite meal/food/plate at Hertlin House? The knockwurst and sauerkraut are definitely my favorite! I always look forward to dinner on those days!

What were your main reasons for thinking about a senior living community in the first place? I was living with my son before I moved here and then he sold his house. I needed my own apartment, because it’s important to me to be independent and stand on my own two feet.  That’s why I really liked Hertlin House.

What advice do you have for NEW residents? My advice to new residents would be to take it day by day and make new friends. Everyone here is great; there is no way you wouldn’t make new friends.

With love at first visit, Dominick has much in common with many of our residents.  They want to live independently in a warm, comfortable and enjoyable environment.  Along with the great amenities Hertlin provides there is also something priceless that happens here, Friendships.

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Designed as an innovative, next generation video game, the Nintendo Wii has garnered an unexpected audience: Seniors! Seems that people of all ages want to have fun just as much as the younger born-with-a-joystick-in-there-hand generation.  While the world may have thought of video games as the domain of the young – just like the internet and social media – seniors are proving this silly notion wrong – by embracing the Wii for entertainment, education, and exercise!

Fast-growing numbers of elders are caught up in the Nintendo craze, retirement communities, like Hertlin House, have their own Wii system for all to use.  We find that it is another great way for the residents to socialize and stay active, without having to leave the comforts of our community! Too often, the limited mobility that comes with arthritis, pain, and or just simple aging force seniors to give up more physically demanding athletics and become spectators.

With the Wii, seniors are now able to play and compete against each other, play by themselves, and be as potent of a virtual sportsman as anyone!  Like the rest of us, seniors  can enjoy the challenge of virtual bowling, tennis, golf, baseball and boxing. It’s like the Olympics, without the crowds!

And its not all just about the “thrill of victory” – there are health benefits to the hours that our residents spend on their beloved Wii.  Directors and staff of retirement communities believe Wii system’s benefit seniors with improved blood pressure as well as weight control!  Not to mention, some of our residents have a better backhand then Serena!   Research from The University of Aberdeen and the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) suggests that playing the Wii Fit could also improve balance and help avoid falls.  According to Dr Marie Fraser, a specialist registrar at Woodend Hospital, “Falls are the most common cause of accidental injury in older people and the most common cause of accidental deaths in 75-year-olds and over.”

Another study from the University of California and the San Diego School of Medicine found that the use of the Wii significantly improves the mood and mental state of older adults who suffer from depression.  There is also the “Big Brain Academy: Wii Degree,” to help keep seniors’ mental faculties sharp. The program offers 15 activities that require memory, visualization, and math skills. Allowing for learning, fun and exercise, making the Wii an All-in-one game counsel.

Nintendo did not expect that the Wii sports program would be a big hit with seniors. “When Wii came along, we knew it was easy enough for anyone to play, but we were surprised with how quickly the community of retirees and active seniors took to it,” wrote Anka Dolecki, Nintendo of America’s director of public relations.

Anything you can do Grandma and Grandpa can do too!

…Maybe even better

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What does it possibly mean to age gracefully? In a world where beauty is plastered on billboards, and taught to us before we can take our very first steps, this has become a question Hertlin House has long considered key to promoting vitality of all residents. At first it might seem impossible to cope with changes that occur in body, mind and spirit as one ages.

Nowhere is this clearer than in 70 year old author Nora Ephron’s collection of essays I Feel Bad About My Neck, where she takes her sagging skin as a metaphor for displeasure when she ages.

But the book ultimately demonstrates one of the cores of aging: that in embracing the inevitability of certain changes, one finds the strength, courage, and joie de vivre that can only come from age. While it isn’t always easy, we wanted to give you some tips on how you too can age gracefully.

The first question you might be asking is: how can I get past seeing what I no longer have? You have to recognize the fact that you’re a survivor and embrace the beauty you do have. Many seniors mourn the loss of their younger, more beautiful days. But the glitz and glamor of the heyday ultimately gives way to the fact you can celebrate the knowledge, wisdom and determination that comes from having battled through a lot of hardships. The old adage—with age comes wisdom—is true.

Just look at what women over 50 have done through the Red Hat Society. They’re not afraid to embrace trips to the beauty parlor to get a french manicure or make a day trip to a spa to get pampered. You can enjoy these pleasures, too.

But how am I able to get past physical ailments that are developing? Hertlin House understands physical challenges that come from age, but we believe to age gracefully means that  you must stay active, enjoying a bike or walk through through the crisp fall air. Or, if you have less mobility, knitting or playing bingo can keep you active and part of a larger community.

And if you think that aging means no longer setting goals, think again. Aging gracefully means setting goals. Just this summer, swimmer Diana Nyad attempted to swim between Cuba and United States. At age 61. Though she didn’t make it all way, for 29 hours she proved there is something every senior can do to maintain a sense of accomplishment.

As she said after the swim, “I don’t care what age you are, just immerse yourself in your life. And do it intensely.”

Yes, the truth is that aging gracefully is not easy. By celebrating the wisdom, poise and effervescence that can only come from experience, Hertlin House is confident every senior can lead rich, fulfilling lives whether they’re 60, 70 or 80.

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Do you eat 3 meals a day?

Are you skipping breakfast?

What about midnight snacks?

Eating properly is important at any age, and especially important for seniors – the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. population.  According to Leanne Beattie, Health Writer, & Nicole Nichols, Health Educator, poor nutrition and malnutrition occur in 15 to 50 percent of the elderly population. In fact, many seniors don’t even know that they suffer from malnutrition because the symptoms (weight loss, disorientation, lightheadedness, lethargy and loss of appetite) are easily mistaken for other illnesses.  Some reasons for seniors experiencing malnutrition are lack of interest in cooking, side effects of medication, and loneliness.

Cooking…No more!

Many seniors actually skip meals because of the hassles of cooking.  Not to mention arthritis, pain, and other factors that can make cooking almost unbearable.  Frankly, after years of caring for the children and sometimes even the grandchildren, Grandma is well over her duties in the kitchen!  Time to take a break! Luckily, at Hertlin House the residents are able to enjoy fine dining provided by our Chef and his wonderful staff. You can eat in style! We encourage and recommended good nutrition as it keeps muscles, bones, organs, and other body parts strong for the long haul.

Side effects of medication…Don’t let it stop you!

Side effects of medication, whether over-the-counter or prescription, can reduce appetite, cause nausea, or make food taste differently.   Many times when seniors don’t feel hungry due to medication side effects, they are less likely to eat even though their bodies are in need of food and nutrition.  Eating three meals a day along with a few snacks in between can go a long way for your health and well-being. Not to mention the food at Hertlin House is so good it’s hard to say no.

Eating Alone…Not at Hertlin House!

Many seniors who live alone or suffer from depression may stop cooking meals, lose their appetites, and depend on convenience foods.  Sometimes quick and easy meals are the only options.  This is sometimes a major factor for many seniors and their families turning to Senior and retirement communities.   Socialization enhances appetite and supports good health. Ask the residents at Hertlin House and they’ll tell you that it’s the “finest restaurant in town” and when you are among friends any meal time is a fun time.

Eat well and be well!!

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At Hertlin House we have a vibrant, active community of seniors, and we owe it to promoting wellness. With the changing of seasons, there’s never been a better time to share some reminders on how you can stay healthy and active into the fall and winter months. By keeping just a few simple tips in mind, you might help avoid The Center for Disease Control estimates that 88% of people over age 65 have at least one chronic health condition.

Fall means flu, so get vaccinated to prevent infection. The flu virus can rapidly lead to pneumonia and other life threatening illnesses, especially in those over 65.

Cooler temps and Fall colors are on the way, which means the perfect weather to exercise. Exercise is one of the best ways to strengthen your heart, lungs and mind. Studies show that all it takes is a single, brisk 30 minute walk every day to lower your risk of heart disease, diabetes and joint pain, which are some of the biggest afflictions for seniors.

If you struggle to exercise by yourself, we recommend organizing exercise groups like we do every day at Hertlin House in our fitness center.

We also want to remind people to keep mind, spirit, and body healthy. It can start with something simple like reading a book or picking up a book of crossword puzzles. Meditation has also been shown by leading universities to reduce effects of chronic pain.

And if you’re interested in non-drug alternatives, consider checking out naturopathy, a form of healthcare that avoids traditional medications in favor of herbal remedies and dietary supplements. For more information, please visit the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians website.

While these are only some basics, they are the beginning steps to ensure that you’ll be able to enjoy your Fall season. Here at Hertlin House we want nothing more than to see all seniors lead vibrant, active lives.

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Identity theft is not a new scam.

But as people, especially seniors, are increasingly using the internet and other mobile devices to pay bills, check bank accounts and take advantage of government services, the threat of identity theft has increased. Last year alone, the Federal Trade Commission estimated that as many as 9 million people had their identities stolen. With a little bit of cunning, these thieves can use names, addresses, Social Security Numbers or credit card numbers to apply for loans, rent apartments, establish utility accounts, or steal money.

While not everyone experiences dramatic results, even the slightest theft could have unwanted consequences. At Hertlin House, one of the biggest concerns is keeping our seniors safe and secure. That’s why we wanted to offer tips on how to prevent and recognize identity theft, and keep you from being one of those 9 million victims.

The internet is the new arena of identity theft. While old fashioned pickpockets can snatch a purse, pluck a wallet, or rummage through your garbage, most manage to steal your identity from their comfort of their home computers. This method of stealing identity is known as phishing.

While this can occur in many different forms it, most commonly occurs when individuals pretend to be banks or other businesses and ask for your personal information. Other common scams include pretending that you’ve won the lottery or are inheriting money from someone in a foreign country.

Remember that no business will ever ask for any personal or financial information over email. If you notice an e-mail like any mentioned above, avoid clicking on any web links it may have or downloading any e-mail attachments. When visiting any bank or government website, be sure to check the URL for “HTTPS.” This means that the website has special security features to protect your information.

If you’re one of the many seniors using Facebook or Twitter, watch out for common links sent from people saying they have a photo of you. This is spam and can lead to personal information being compromised. If you think you might have clicked on one of these links, change your account password right away.

The staff and management of  Hertlin House recognizes that seniors increasingly want to stay connected to loved ones across the world, and use technology that makes basic tasks easier. Like we tell the seniors who use our computer center: with this new technology comes risks. Keeping these tips will help you tap into the world of possibilities we have today without having to worry about your identity being be threatened.
If you still feel you might have been a victim of identity theft, the Federal Trade Commission offers a series of resources and agencies you can turn to for help.

Why should you consider Hertlin House? Well, if you’re STILL not convinced we’ll share some more proof why you should be here! Today we had the pleasure to speak with Connie, a smart, savvy secretary from Brooklyn, NY.  Connie has been with us at the Hertlin House for a little over a year and a half and today we’re going to hear all about her experiences here.

Do you have any children/grandchildren? I have 3 children (2 sons and 1 daughter), 6 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.  I’m lucky to be part of a warm, loving family!

What was your first reaction when you moved-in? I really liked it; I thought it seemed like a very happy place.  I was excited to be here.

What makes Hertlin House special for you? Well, it’s “the” place to be.  It’s a nice, happy place and I couldn’t see myself anywhere else.  All of the coolest kids are here, didn’t you know?

How has being a part of the Hertlin House community changed your life for the better? I find that life is more satisfying.  Being here allowed me to feel and think happier and have a better look at life.  Every day here is uplifting and fun.

What is your favorite Hertlin House activity or program? Why? I love playing Rummy-Q.  It takes a lot of concentration and it’s challenging.  I enjoy challenging my brain frequently, it keeps me sharp.  I’m the sharpest gal around this place!

What is your favorite meal/food/plate at Hertlin House? It would definitely be the Eggplant Parmigiana.  It’s delicious; my mouth is watering thinking about it!

What were your main reasons for thinking about a senior living community in the first place? I needed to change my living conditions and arrangements.  The Hertlin House gave me the chance to move to a new place and be more independent while being safe.

What advice do you give NEW residents? The most important thing a new resident can do is to get involved right away with the activities.  By doing that they’ll stay active and meet new people and will feel welcome in no time at all.  Oh, and come find me. I’m always looking to meet new people!

The Hertlin House is a great and welcoming place filled with so many different personalities.  As you can see over the past few weeks, our residents are extremely happy here.  We want to do everything that we can to ensure that all of our residents are happy, comfortable, involved and welcome.  Forget Disney World, WE’RE the happiest place on earth!

Summer has come and gone, the nice breeze and shorts days of fall have arrived.  Taking the fun indoors as we begin the fall festivities with a Craft Fair.  From jewelry to glass-art this will sure be an event you wont want to miss.

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We’ve decided that our retirement-living community is the best one around.  How will we prove that to you? Well, we’ll share what are residents are saying! Today we’re learning about Ethel, a fun, energetic secretary from Queens, NY.  Ethel has been at the Hertlin House for a little over a year and she loves it.

Do you have any children or grandchildren? I have 2 children, 3 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren! They are all so wonderful and I feel thankful to have them in my life.

What was your first reaction when you moved-in? I really loved it.  I loved the look of it and the feel of it.  It’s such a warm and welcoming place.

What makes Hertlin House special for you? I think it’s the companionship that I feel here. Everyone is so friendly and we all get along.  I feel at home and I’m able to spend time with other people and be social.

How has being a part of the Hertlin House community changed your life for the better? Living here I get to be involved in so many more activities and as a result of that I have a much better social life.  It makes me feel young again!

What is your favorite Hertlin House activity or program? Why? I like the different options of programs that Hertlin House offers.  I’m able to do what I like to do and follow my interests.  My favorite activity would have to be playing cards, though.  I’m a real card shark and I give these residents a run for their money!

What is your favorite meal/food/plate at Hertlin House? That’s a tie between the shrimp and the roast beef.  They are both so delicious.  I look forward to the days when either is served.

What were your main reasons for thinking about a senior living community in the first place? I was living at home alone for a while after my husband had passed away.  My family and I quickly noticed that I wasn’t eating properly and it was hard to keep the apartment clean all by myself.  A senior living community was a safe option for me.

What advice do you give to NEW residents? The most important thing for new residents to do is to meet the other residents.  It’s important to get involved and get to know the people around you.  After that you’ll quickly feel at home and form friendships you haven’t had in years!

Ethel feels the way that most of our residents do.  She’s loved Hertlin House from the minute she walked in and has only learned to like it more since being here.  We’re here to make new and current residents feel safe, happy and welcome.  It won’t take long until you’ll also feel that Hertlin House is the right place for you too!