Resources Archive | Page 6 of 18 | Lutheran Senior Services

Living with the Long Goodbye

“They call it the ‘long-goodbye’ disease,’ but I think that means goodbye is a long way off and there’s a lot of living to do between now and the end,” said Andy Rachelski, husband of Mary Rachelski, who is living with Alzheimer’s Disease. Andy and Mary reside at Meramec Bluffs, a Lutheran Senior Services Life (LSS) Plan Community in Ballwin, Mo.

“I want to give people hope. Don’t stop living just because of a diagnosis,” said Andy.

Spotlight on the Side Dish

When it comes to Thanksgiving, the turkey takes all the attention. Michael Ott, Director of Dining at Breeze Park Senior Living Community in Weldon Spring, Missouri, argues that the sides are worthy of some attention too. While cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, corn bread, and mashed potatoes are all staple sides, Michael shares one of his favorite side dishes – Brussel sprouts with bacon and toasted pecans.

When You’re Here, You’re Family – Literally!

We consider everyone at Lutheran Senior Services (LSS) to be “family” – but for some of us it’s literal. At many LSS communities, there are generations of family living and working together.

For example, three generations of Maria Rutter’s family live or work at Concordia Village, an LSS Life Plan Community in Springfield, IL. Maria has been a Senior Living Counselor at Concordia Village for nearly seven years. Her mother, Margaret Angeli, has been a resident of Concordia Village for 13 years. Her 16-year-old son Ethan Rutter has been a team member in the Concordia Village Dining Department since January.

Wreaths Across America Day

As we celebrate Veteran’s Day this November, one Lutheran Senior Services (LSS) resident is preparing for another opportunity to honor veterans. Ann Shadowens, resident of Laclede Groves, an LSS life plan community, participates in Wreaths Across America Day.

What Temperature is Dangerous for Elderly Adults?

The changing of the seasons often brings with it dramatic temperature shifts—a reality that can pose serious risks for our elderly loved ones.

Memory Care Residents have a Best Friend at Meridian Village

At Meridian Village, a Lutheran Senior Services (LSS) Life Plan Community in Glen Carbon, Illinois, Gayle Hantak, Lifestyle Enrichment Coordinator, uses the Best Friends approach with her Memory Care residents. The concept is centered around the idea that people with dementia need a best friend who empathizes with their situation, remains loving and positive, and is dedicated to helping them feel safe, secure, and valued.