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Senior Fitness Guide – By Regency Nursing and Rehabilitation

Posted on March 29, 2013 by Judah

We have put together this excellent guide to Excercise and Flexibility for Adults 60 and older. I hope you enjoy it and find it to be informative and empowering!

Regeny Nursing emphasizes senior fitness!

Why Should I Exercise?

Muscle weakness is the major reason elderly Americans need to incorporate some type of exercise into their daily lives.

Many older people think they are too old or too frail to exercise. This is an old myth. Physical activity is beneficial for your body, heart, and mind at any age.

Exercising helps seniors grow stronger, more confident, and more independent. Older people who become more active, including those with medical conditions, also feel better, have increased energy, and a more positive mental outlook.

This article is designed to help people understand how to enhance the quality of life, simply and safely, by becoming more physically active. No matter how old you are, or how out of shape you may be, even a little exercise can pay healthy rewards.

Slowing the ”Sarcopenia Cycle”

Sarcopenia is the name medical science has given to the phenomenon of muscle wasting as we age.
As the body’s muscle mass decreases, fat begins to accumulate. The higher the proportion of fat in our bodies, the slower our metabolism, which makes it more difficult to be active. In turn, this lack of activity limits our ability to shed fat and increases the problem of muscle weakness.

This is the “Sarcopenia Cycle.” It is a process most of us don’t notice until we realize how hard it has become to climb stairs or simply get up from our favorite sitting chair. Regular exercise is the only way to slow this downward progression. It is for this reason that strength training and other forms of muscle-strengthening exercises are so important to a long and healthy life.

Guarding Against Bone Breaks

Building muscle tissue is also important in order to prevent bone breaks. Building muscle tissue around bones is the best means we have of protecting them from the weakening effects of aging. When your leg and hip muscles are strong, you are less likely to fall, and should you experience a fall, it is less likely to result in a fracture.

Four Areas of Fitness

According to the National Institute on Aging, there are four areas of fitness that are key to staying healthy and independent as long as possible.
• Strength Training: These activities such as weightlifting, calisthenics and resistance training build muscle, and help protect bones and prevent diseases associated with weak bones, joints and muscles, such as osteoporosis.

• Endurance: Aerobic exercises increase your breathing and heart rate. Not only do these activities improve stamina, they reduce the risk of certain diseases, such as high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes.

• Flexibility: Increased flexibility and freedom of movement come primarily from stretching exercises. They also help prevent injuries and improve posture. Stretching is especially important for people with weak backs, arthritis, or other joint pain.

• Balance: Although balance can deteriorate with age, it can be improved through exercise. Good balance helps prevent falls, which are a major cause of injuries that limit function and independence.

Choosing the Right Exercise

First things first. See your doctor. Don’t start any exercise program without a physician’s approval.

Different types of exercises address the various areas of fitness mentioned above. Each group of exercises brings its own benefits. Here are just a few:

• Static Stretching: Static stretching involves gradually moving the muscles and joints
through a full range of motion and holding the fully stretched position for 15-30 seconds.

• Building Muscle: Strength training to rebuild and maintain muscle mass usually involves light
to moderate weightlifting. It can include something as simple as vigorously cleaning your
house, active gardening or carrying groceries.

• Endurance Exercises: These are typically the “workout” portion of most routines. According to your overall health and fitness level, you can select mildly to moderately vigorous activities that
you can gradually build in length and intensity.

Walking is an excellent form of endurance exercise because it can be done at your own pace and at any time. Walking strengthens muscles in the lower body, helps build new joint bone and tissue, and helps slow osteoporosis.

Swimming is another ideal exercise, particularly for healthy active seniors. It provides a great workout and the water cushions against high impact.

Dancing is social, fun and a healthy exercise. The various styles – from ballroom to polka – allow each person to work within his or her individual target heart range.

• Balance and Flexibility: Tai Chi is one of many exercises that can help older adults reduce the risk of falls and injuries related to poor balance. This ancient martial arts form, which has only recently become popular in this country, uses slow, graceful and precise body movements to improve balance, strength and flexibility.

Getting Started

Just about anyone, at any age, can incorporate some type of physical activity into a regular routine in order to improve his or her health.

Again, the first step is to see your doctor. His or her approval is essential to the safety and success of your program.

When you’re ready to begin, make your activities a part of your everyday life. It’s easy to do. You’ll find that wellness programs are all around us today. Check with local churches or synagogues, senior centers, parks, recreation departments, YM/YWCAs, or even local shopping malls. You may also want to find a partner to keep you motivated. Most importantly, do things you enjoy, such as brisk walks while listening to music, gardening or raking leaves in the yard, or physical tasks around the house. Just remember: stop if your body tells you “no more.”

REMEMBER… healthy eating and exercise goes hand-in-hand
Don’t believe the myth that being frail and helpless is a part of growing old.

If we sit back and do nothing, we are doomed to lose 20 to 40 percent of our muscle and, along with it, our strength. Activities that produce even small changes in muscle size, changes that you may not even see, can make a big difference in both your physical and emotional well being.

Seeing The World Through Aging Eyes

Posted on March 22, 2013 by Judah

We put together this guide to preserving the gift of sight for as long as possible. I hope you enjoy it and find it helpful.

When Eyes Show Their Age
In one respect, age helps us all to see things more clearly. However, almost everyone’s vision suffers as we grow older. This is why it is so important to take steps to preserve the gift of sight for as long as possible –especially now that most of us are able to lead active lives well into our later years.

The Four Common Diseases We Must All Guard Against
There are four eye diseases that are of particular concern to older people. These are the four leading causes of blindness among older Americans and they are not usually noticeable in the early stages. However, it is in the early stages that these diseases are most treatable. This is why everyone 65 years of age and older should have an eye examination at least every year. Trying to identify the early signs of these diseases yourself could be a terrible mistake. By the time you notice any difference
in your vision, a significant amount of your vision may be lost forever.

1. Cataracts
It is estimated that nearly 75% of all those over 65 years of age have some degree of cataract, making it most common of the eye diseases related to aging. A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s normally clear lens. The only effective treatment is to surgically remove the cataract. This greatly improves vision in the vast majority of cases. Of course, many people do not need to have surgery. If your vision is not severely impaired by cataracts, you may choose to simply avoid certain activities such as driving at night.

Early warning signs:
• Blurred vision

• Double vision or ghosted images

• Sensitivity to glare

• Frequent switching of glasses, none of which help

2. Glaucoma
Glaucoma is the leading cause of blindness. And yet, once detected, it can be stopped in most cases – sometimes via surgery. The vision that is lost, however, cannot be restored.

Most cases of glaucoma develop slowly, with a gradual loss of peripheral (or side) vision. However, by the time people notice they have lost some of their side vision, glaucoma has already stolen away much of their ability to see.

Some individuals, including people with diabetes, are at higher risk. Having someone in your family who has had glaucoma also increases your chances of developing the disease. Risk also increases for people who have had an eye injury or who have taken cortisone medication for an extended period of time.

Early warning signs:
• Loss of side vision

• Inability to adjust to darkened rooms

• Blurred or foggy vision, especially when awakening

• Frequent switching of glasses

3. Macular Degeneration
Macular Degeneration is the most common cause of severe vision loss among people over 60 years of age. The cause of this disease is unknown, and there are few options for treating it. However, numerous studies and research are being conducted that may offer more solutions in the future. Meanwhile, some people believe that antioxidants or zinc supplements may help. Out-patient laser surgery may also
be an option for people with more severe Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD).

AMD is a very common cause of vision loss in the U.S. It usually strikes people over the age of 60. The macula is the small spot in the center of your retina. This center area is the most sensitive part of your retina and provides the sharp vision you need for reading and seeing colors clearly. When Macular Degeneration occurs, your center vision may become blurred, distorted or you may develop a blind spot.

When a large amount of central vision is lost, people find it very difficult to do simple, everyday tasks that require sharp vision. This includes reading, sewing, driving or even recognizing faces. Fortunately, AMD rarely results in complete blindness. Side vision is usually not damaged.

AMD usually affects one eye first, then the other. It can develop quickly or slowly. There are two forms of AMD. The wet form, although less common, causes the most severe loss of sight. It is called “wet” because tiny blood vessels grow rapidly beneath the retina. They often break, leaking blood and fluid.

The “dry” form, accounting for 75 to 85 percent of the AMD cases, is caused by a breakdown or thinning of the tissues in the macula. Vision loss with dry AMD is usually not as severe.

Treatment can be effective for certain types of AMD, but it must take place early in the course of the disease. Most people with AMD can keep their independence, still live a normal life, and continue to enjoy many of their favorite activities. Many make good use of low vision aids, such as magnifiers, to maximize their remaining vision.

Early warning signs:
• Sudden hazy or blurred vision

• Recurrent pain in or around the eyes

• Double vision

• Halos around lights

• Unusual sensitivity to light or glare

• Change in color of the iris

• Sudden development of persisting floaters

4. Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of new blindness in the Unites States for those 20 to 74 years of age. The longer one has had diabetes, the greater the likelihood of diabetic retinopathy. For this reason, those with even mild diabetes should have their eyes examined at least every year.

This disease affects the vision by damaging the blood vessels in the retina. As a result, vision may become blurred and, if untreated, may lead to blindness.

Careful control of blood sugar levels greatly reduces your chances of developing this condition. If detected early, laser therapy may effectively reduce the risk of severe vision loss.

Early warning sign:
• Blurred vision is the most common symptom

The Four Conditions We Can All Expect With Age
There are four common conditions that affect your vision as you get older. Nearly all of us experience these and other changes in our vision as we grow older. Yes, they can be a nuisance. But, as long as you don’t allow these minor vision impairments to put you in harm’s way, there is nothing to worry about.

Watery or Dry Eyes. It is common for older eyes to make too many or too few tears. As a result, your eyes may constantly feel watery or dry. Although an eye irritation or other problem may be the cause, these conditions are common with age. An eye doctor may recommend eye drops to relieve the problem.

Reduced Night Vision. For most of us, the older we get the harder it is to see in reduced light. It’s part of the aging process. All one can do is take extra precautions when traveling at night and keep your eyeglass prescriptions up to date.

Presbyopia. The older we get, the harder it is to focus on objects and words that are close up. This condition is called Presbyopia. It is caused by the formation of small crystals that make the lens of our eye less flexible. As the condition progresses, the muscles around the lens can’t reshape the less flexible lens enough to focus up close. If the diminished vision becomes too bothersome, your eye doctor can prescribe glasses or contact lenses that can help.

Floaters. Floaters are the tiny, dancing spots you may see when looking toward a light-colored background like a clear blue sky. As long as you do not notice a sudden increase in them, or they are accompanied by flashes of light, don’t be concerned. If these symptoms do occur, however, consult your eye doctor immediately.

Expect Vision Changes
Nearly all of us experience some changes in our vision as we grow older. In fact, our vision changes naturally throughout our lives. The good news is that you can continue to lead an active life, even though you have some minor vision problems. For example, as you grow older:
• Your eyes need more light to see

• It is harder for you to tell the difference between some colors (particularly dark shades of blue and green)

• Adjusting to glare and darkness becomes more difficult

Your Eyes’ Best Friend
The most important thing you can do to preserve your vision is to have your eyes examined regularly. Visiting an eye doctor at least once a year is essential. Those with diabetes need to go much more often.

When you go for an eye examination, talk to your doctor about your eyes and your vision. You can learn what problems may develop with your vision, how those problems can be detected, and what steps you can take to protect your sight. You may also find out that some things you have heard are simply not true.

Regular visits will alert you to problems and help determine if changes in your eyesight are dangerous. The fact of the matter is many disorders are hardly noticeable in their early stages, and yet this is when they can be treated most effectively.

Natural Disasters and the Elderly

Posted on March 19, 2013 by Judah

I just came across a fascinating article published this month by Wynne Parry in Live Science regarding the effect of natural disasters on the elderly.

Heat waves, storm flooding aggravated by rising sea levels and other extreme events associated with climate change can affect everyone when they hit, but the danger isn’t shared equally.

One segment of the population — the elderly — is particularly vulnerable when disaster strikes.

In Louisiana, about 71 percent of those who died as a result of Hurricane Katrina were older than 60, and nearly half were older than 75, according to a 2006 federal report. About two weeks after Hurricane Sandy hit in 2012, the New York Times reported that close to half of those who died in the storm were 65 or older. Many of these elderly victims drowned at home; others died from storm-related injuries, hypothermia and other causes.

The Brooklyn Verrazano Bridge during Hurricane Sandy

We are intimately aware of the effects of Sandy on the senior population in the barrier islands of NJ. During this time, Regency facilities provided a crucial safe haven for the many elderly evacuees from both the local hospitals and the community.

Regency Founder and President, David Gross, worked hand in hand with senior hospital officials, to accept many elderly patients under relaxed guidelines and with utmost compassion and dedication. Regency nursing centers were thus a beacon of hope for entire communities during these trying times.

So why are disasters so difficult on the elderly?

Click here to read the article.

Excellence in Senior Care! – Regency Nursing

Posted on March 12, 2013March 12, 2013 by Judah

I met with a family yesterday for a tour of our facility.
We sat and talked for awhile and at one point, the gentleman turns to me and asks me the million dollar question:

He says to me, “what about this job actually excites/motivates you?”

At a minimum, every employee working in any business or industry should have a ready response for a question like this. If an individual cannot articulate a proper response to a query like this, he/she needs to go back to the ‘drawing board’.

My response was to invoke the oft repeated quote from our visionary Founder and President, who once summed up his organizational philosophy when he said; “at Regency, we are passionate about caring for people.”

This succinct, yet powerful statement is the driving force behind my/our excitement and motivation.

We help people! We impact their lives and the lives of their loved ones in a most positive way! We offer them care, compassion and friendship during their most trying times. We treat them with the dignity and respect we would accord to our own loved ones, because each of them is indeed someone’s loved one!

At Regency Nursing centers, we fully recognize the role we play in caring for the individual. This is cause for tremendous pride, but also carries with it exceptional responsibility.
Our mandate is not to simply provide the requisite care, but to do so in a manner which allows our patients and residents to thrive.

When you are engaged in selling widgets, it is sometimes sufficient to be “second best.” Not all coffee makers are created equal and some people will say “coffee is coffee.”

Not so, when you are engaged in the business of caring for people. It is insufficient to be second best.
Second best, isn’t even second rate in Healthcare.

I recently saw an ad for a rehab facility in a prominent magazine, which touted the facility as being “recognized in N.Y.S. with an above average rating.”

This ‘promotion’ shocked me to the core! Is this a way of advertising your strengths?! Admitting that you are simply “above average” is adequate (perhaps) if you are selling ceiling tiles.

However, consider this; would you entrust your loved one to a neurosurgeon who is “above average?!” Indeed, would you consider an “above average” nursing facility as adequately suited to care for your own Mom or Dad?!

At Regency, we are proud to be excellent!
We are relentless in our pursuit of excellence.
Our excellence in care is what distinguishes us from amongst our competition and is the reason we are proud, excited and motivated employees.

Winter Safety Tips For Seniors – from Regency Nursing

Posted on March 8, 2013 by Judah

So here I am, sitting in my office at the Regency Park nursing and rehab center, watching what the Meteorologists are projecting to be the last vestiges of winter’s fury, before things start warming up (I sure hope so).

The truth of the matter is, there is a certain beauty and serenity about “old man winter” and our wonderful residents love to watch the snowflakes fall outside of their windows while they sip on hot chocolate!

I just took these two pictures of our side door and one of our many beautiful waterfall and rock formations (currently, totally frozen over) with the snow white backdrop!

Speaking of ‘snow and winter’, winter time is a period when it is of vital importance to protect our residents and senior citizens, who are more prone to sickness and infections during these brutally cold months.

We have put together this tutorial to empower you with information on this subject!

Winter Safety for Seniors

Tips for keeping yourself and elderly loved ones safe, secure and warm during the cold weather months.

When the Weather Outside is Frightful

The winter months can be a difficult and dangerous time for anyone living in an area of the country where temperatures regularly fall below freezing. The frail and elderly are especially susceptible to winter hazards such as icy streets, exposure to cold and inadequate home heating. If you or someone you know is over age 65 or in some way disabled and living alone, it is important to safeguard against the most common causes of cold weather death and injury as outlined in this booklet.

Preparing for the Cold and for Weather Emergencies

There are several important ways you can prepare for winter emergencies BEFORE the cold weather hits:

1. Have your heating system checked annually for possible problems. If your furnace breaks down during a cold spell, temperatures in your home could plummet in a matter of hours. Keep in mind that during peak breakdown periods, generally between December and February, it may be days before repairs can be made.

2. Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors near bedrooms and on all floors of your home or apartment – MAKE SURE THEY’RE WORKING. Test them monthly and change their batteries at least once a year. In the event of a gas leak, faulty heater or winter fire, they could save your life!

3. Make sure you have plenty of warm blankets, candles and working flashlights on hand in case of a winter power outage that could leave you without heat or electricity.

4. Keep an emergency supply of canned goods and necessities in your home. A sudden winter storm could leave you unable to venture out to the store. You should have enough on hand to last several days.

5. Have a battery-powered portable radio available. This will allow you to obtain weather reports and other emergency news in the event of a power outage. In case power lines are disabled, it is also advisable to have a cell phone for emergency use.

6. Stock up on medications you may need and if you have a home health care service, plan ahead with the agency to establish emergency procedures.

7. Pre-arrange for someone to check on you in the event of a weather emergency.

Watch Your Step!

Falling is one of the biggest health hazards seniors face in the winter due to icy buildup on steps or walkways. When venturing out on freezing days, make sure to wear sturdy, low-heeled shoes with non-skid rubber soles. Although heavy, thick-soled shoes are often recommended for walking in snow, seniors with poor circulation may actually have better traction with thin-soled shoes because they provide better contact with the ground.

Following a winter snowfall, stay clear of un-shoveled side-walks and hilly terrain. If you’re unsure of whether or not a sidewalk is slippery, proceed cautiously, walking with toes pointed outward, taking short, flat steps. Remove shoes immediately upon entering your home to avoid indoor falls caused by slippery soles.

Important Snow Shoveling Tips

People over age 65, especially those with a history of high blood pressure or heart disease, should avoid the strain of shoveling snow whenever possible. The risks of severe muscle strains, falls or even heart attacks are simply too great.

When you must shovel, use caution and follow a few simple rules:

• Dress warmly! Wear layers, gloves and a hat to retain body heat and protect against hypothermia.

• Do some light warm-up exercises to limber up before starting to shovel.

• If possible, push the snow in front of you rather than lifting it. If you must lift it, pick up small amounts and lift with your legs, not your back.

• Rest frequently and take lots of breaks. If you get dizzy or numb, go inside immediately.

• Protect against slipping by using rock salt or de-icing compounds thoroughly on walkways and steps. Keep a supply near your front door.

• When using a snow blower, be sure to read all the directions and follow the safety guidelines.

Avoiding Fatal Mistakes that Could Cause Home Fires

Unfortunately, home fires are one of the most common causes of winter fatalities among seniors. Improper use of space heaters and other heating devices can result in fires that can consume your home or apartment. Here are some fire safety tips when heating your home:

• Keep clothing, curtains and blankets away from space heaters.

• Never smoke in bed or when you’re drowsy.

• Never use kerosene heaters or stoves to heat your home.

• Make sure all smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are in working order throughout your home.

Keeping Our Senior Neighbors Safe in Extreme Weather

When the cold weather strikes, our elderly and disabled neighbors may need extra assistance. Here are some of the ways you can help them stay safe and sound:

• Offer your phone number for emergency calls and check on elderly loved ones and friends regularly to make sure they’re safe.

• If possible, arrange for someone to shovel and de-ice their walkways and steps.

• During severe weather, see if they need transportation to and from medical appointments or to the grocery store.

• Make sure they have emergency supplies on hand.

• If loved ones are cognitively or physically disabled, arrange for someone to stay with them during a weather emergency.

Guarding Against Hypothermia

Hypothermia is classified as a drop in body temperature below 96 degrees and can be extremely dangerous if not detected early. Medical experts believe certain conditions such as stroke, severe arthritis and Parkinson’s disease can block the body’s response to cold, as can some medications. This makes seniors particularly susceptible to accidental hypothermia.

What Are the Warning Signs of Hypothermia?

• Uncontrollable shivering

• Numbness

• Confusion, disorientation, drowsiness

• Stiff muscles

• Slurred speech

• Slow, shallow breathing

• Slow, irregular heartbeat

• Weak pulse

• Stumbling and loss of coordination

Remember, even mildly cool temperatures of 60-65 degrees can cause a dangerous drop in internal body temperature, which can be deadly if not treated promptly and properly.

To protect against the potentially devastating consequences of hypothermia, follow these simple guidelines:

• Try to limit your time outdoors, especially if you are in a high-risk group.

• If you are forced to be outside during cold weather, wear warm, layered clothing made of natural fibers. You should wear a hat, warm socks and gloves to reduce heat loss.

• Stay indoors on windy days. Even if the temperature appears to be moderate, wind chill can substantially increase your risk of hypothermia.

• When indoors, keep your thermostat set at a comfortable level. Wear warm clothing, and use enough blankets at night to keep warm while sleeping.

• Choose hot, nourishing meals and drink warm beverages to keep your body temperature up.

If you suspect someone may be suffering from hypothermia, keep the person dry and warm with blankets. DO NOT rub limbs to warm them. You should also encourage them to drink hot beverages that are free of caffeine or alcohol. Above all, seek medical attention immediately.

Regency Park is the Top Nursing Center in Monmouth County

Posted on March 6, 2013March 6, 2013 by Judah

When I tour with folks at Regency Park Nursing & Rehab, I tell them that we are not here to simply facilitate the ‘survival’ of our residents. There isn’t a resident here who is simply passing time and “surviving.” Rather, everyone who is here is absolutely thriving!

One need only witness the happy and smiling faces of our residents (and their families) to see the kind of compassionate care we provide.

There are far too many nursing homes who adopt the “survival method” approach, whereby they engage in ‘routine maintenance’ of the residents who fall under their care. There is no passion invested in their work and there isn’t a desire to build up the emotional and psychological wellbeing of their residents, in addition to looking after their physical needs.

Regency nursing centers offers a diverse range of programs geared towards stimulating and cultivating the total wellbeing of our patients and residents. As a result of our overarching commitment to create happy residents, we have built a recreation program that is first rate and unrivaled by any of our competitors.

Each and every day is chock full of activities and our residents are constantly busy, active and happy!

Whether it is our many interactive games, bingo sessions, concerts (Elvis didn’t die, he is in our building all of the time!) or our arts and crafts, there is something for everyone!

In fact, right outside my office there is a huge calendar of activities posted on the wall. See the picture below. Every resident has a small version of this calendar in their private rooms. Some of the activities are self explanatory, while others are completely foreign to me. I do know that our Recreation Director, Maribel Restrepo, invests a great deal of effort and talent into making every activity a unique success!

I invite you to tour with us at Regency Park in Hazlet, New Jersey, to see what all of the buzz is about!

Please call me at 732-264-5800 extension 3343.

The Medicaid Program; an In-Depth Analysis

Posted on March 5, 2013 by Judah

The Medicaid program is one of the least understood of all State and Federal (funded) programs.

At Regency Nursing Centers, we are licensed to provide care for all Medicaid recipients and we invest a great deal of time and effort to educate our seniors and their families on the complex nuances of this program. We empower our families and arm them with the necessary tools to recognize their entitlements under Medicaid and we inform them of their benefits.

There are many articles written on this subject and some of them are more convoluted than helpful. A great tutorial which I’ve found to be very beneficial, is one published by the Kaiser Family Foundation.

THE MEDICAID PROGRAM AT A GLANCE

Medicaid, the nation’s main public health insurance program for low-income people, covers over 62 million Americans, or 1 in every 5. Medicaid beneficiaries include pregnant women, children and families, individuals with disabilities, and poor Medicare beneficiaries. Without Medicaid, most enrollees would be uninsured or lack coverage for services they need. As a major insurer, Medicaid provides essential funding to safety‐net hospitals and health centers that provide care to underserved communities and many of the uninsured. In addition, Medicaid is the main source of coverage and financing for long-term care, including both nursing home and community-based long-term services and supports. Altogether, Medicaid finances 16% of all personal health spending. The Medicaid program is administered by states within broad federal rules and is financed jointly by states and the federal government. Medicaid’s structure – extensive state flexibility in program design and guaranteed federal matching funds – have enabled the program to evolve, and to respond to economic and demographic changes and emergent needs. Its structure also facilitates state innovation. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), Medicaid will expand in 2014 to reach millions more poor Americans – mostly, uninsured adults. The Medicaid expansion is the foundation of the public-private system of coverage the ACA establishes to reach nearly all the uninsured. However, under the Supreme Court decision on the health reform law, each state will decide whether to implement the Medicaid expansion.

Who does Medicaid cover?

To qualify for Medicaid today, an individual must belong to one of the core eligibility groups under federal Medicaid law: pregnant women, children, adults with dependent children, people with disabilities, and seniors. State Medicaid programs must cover people in these groups up to federally defined income thresholds, but many states have expanded Medicaid beyond the minimum requirements, mostly for children. As of January 2013, 19 states covered children up to at least 150% of the federal poverty level (FPL) – $29,295 for a family of three in 2013 – including 11 states with eligibility thresholds between 200% and 300% FPL. All told, Medicaid and the smaller Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) cover 1 in every 3 children. By contrast, adult eligibility for Medicaid is much more limited (Figure 2). In 33 states, the eligibility threshold for working parents is set below 100% FPL; in 16 of these states, parents with earnings equal to 50% FPL have too much to qualify for Medicaid. Historically, non-disabled adults without dependent children (“childless adults”) have been excluded from Medicaid by federal law, and states wishing to cover them have had to use state-only dollars or obtain a federal waiver to do so.

Regency Jewish Heritage Hosts Purim Celebration!

Posted on March 4, 2013 by Judah

Regency Jewish Heritage Nursing and Rehabilitation Center hosted a Purim celebration on February 24, 2013, along with inviting the Chabad Center for Jewish Life, 26 New Amwell Road, Hillsborough to join in the festivities.

The volunteers from Chabad arrived early morning with approximately 40 children passing out Shalach Manos (gifts) to the residents in their rooms and singing in the activity rooms. The residents truly enjoyed it.
Rabbi Shmaya Krinsky who organized with Regency Heritage to hold this wonderful event for the community members and for the residents, read the Megilah, along with a slideshow.

After some of the traditions that take place on this holiday, there was plenty of party time with a generous buffet set out for all to enjoy. The party included along with lots of food, extra treats, such as delicious Hamantaschen cookies, cotton candy, popcorn, clowns, beautiful colorful costumes, masks, music, circus entertainment, circus skills workshop for all ages, and so much more. There were plenty of smiles from the little children, and all those residing at the facility.

Regency Centers always strive to create the optimal environment for those who receive rehabilitative services, and the residents residing at the center. The community is always welcome, and appreciates the participation of the Chabad Center of Hillsborough in adding to a very special memory for all that attended.

Pictured are Tamara Bergman, Dietary Director and Caroline Santiago, Activities Director.

Pictured are Rabbi Shmaya Krinsky, and his wife and daughter, of Chabad Center for Jewish Life.

Pictured is Elise Scott, resident at Regency Jewish Heritage, with a volunteer “clown” from the Chabad Center.

For further information regarding Regency Jewish Heritage Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, contact 732-8873-2000, or visit, http://www.regencynursing.com.

Regency Grande Nursing and Rehabilitation, Hosts Valentine’s Day Event!

Posted on February 22, 2013 by Judah

“Love is in the Air”

By: Marie Barnes

On Valentine’s Day, at Regency Grande Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 65 North Sussex Street, Dover, and every day. Delicious treats, roses, music, and all the components that reflect a very special Valentine’s Day was provided to those who reside at the facility. This event held on February 14th, to provide a wonderful afternoon for the residents, staff and family members. Each year Regency Grande has a special celebration to commemorate a Queen and King in the facility in honor and in celebration of Valentine’s Day. Regency Centers believes that every day “Caring Comes to Life”, and this is simply an example of some of the celebrations that take place at this warm, caring facility.

Several couples are chosen from the facility, and based on some basic criteria, a King and Queen is chosen to reign throughout the year. Everyone from the Administrator, department heads, the staff members, and volunteers, participate in some way. Staff baked and wrapped special cupcakes for each resident. Everyone to joined in on the singing and dancing with residents to create a very festive atmosphere. Eleanor Sorbara, resident at the facility, who is approaching her 95th birthday, enjoyed dancing the “twist” with the entertainer performing. Eleanor was quite musically inclined, and made a real impression on all that enjoyed her energetic, agile dance moves. There were smiles throughout the room, and glowing faces.

SAMSUNG DIGITAL CAMERA — Click Image to Enlarge

The winners of the King and Queen contest was John Bennett, crowned as King and Ana Tasco, crowned as Queen. The King and Queen were attired with their capes, sash, and scepters and of course crown. Each of these items was presented individually to the recipients by a Director at the facility. The couple was thrilled, as was all the contestants, who received something special to commemorate this event.

After the ceremony the music continued to play, singing and dancing continued, laughter throughout the room, the treats were handed out and there was another day of “love in the air” for these special residents at Regency Grande.

Regency Centers are always striving to host unique and enjoyable events for the residents and community. On May 19th, 2013, at Regency Jewish Heritage Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 380 DeMott Lane, Somerset, NJ, is hosting a special celebration for centenarians to break a Guinness Book of World Records Attempt, for “Largest Gathering of Centenarians”. Last year, Regency Jewish Heritage, was privileged to host a luncheon with 22 centenarians, and attempt to exceed that number, and invite all centenarians that would like to attend. Regency Nursing Centers cumulatively are honored to have a dozen centenarians reside at the Regency facilities.

Please contact Marie Barnes at 732-995-3934, or mbarnes@regencynursing.com

Pictured on the left, is Pam Alvarez, Director of Nursing. For further information on Regency Grande Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, contact 973-361-5200, or visit, www.regencynursing.com

Regency Nursing Earns Highest 5 Star Rating!

Posted on September 11, 2012 by Judah

September 11, 2012:

Regency Heritage Nursing & Rehabilitation Centers is proud to announce that they have achieved the coveted 5 star rating for excellence from the CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid) Governmental group for compliance.

In an interview with Regency founder and President, David Gross, he commented on the significance of such an honorary distinction and remarked; “I am proud of what we have been able to accomplish together. This award is a true testament to our perseverance in pursuit of excellence in all areas of healthcare.”

For more information on Regency Heritage, visit them online, or call 732-873-2000