Well-known for providing individually tailored skilled nursing and therapy services for area seniors, Arbors will push its hospitality skills from the delicious, to the exotic, to the wildly entertaining. Without ever leaving the dockside, each day of this vacation cruise ship-styled festivity will bring a new Caribbean island destination and an activity-packed itinerary, which residents can fully immerse themselves in.  Beginning with Aruba on Monday, the five-day extravaganza will continue on to The Bahamas Tuesday, followed by Barbados, Jamaica, and winding up on the island of St. Martin. Sunny skis and temperatures in the low 80’s should be the norm.

To help ramp up the celebration, and really get into the spirit of things, each day residents will dress up to match that day’s unique theme. Mardi Gras Day, Fiesta Day, Casino Day and Western Day will feature entertaining live music by local bands, dancing, singing, an education of island culture, and of course the sumptuous meals.

The vacationers, aka Arbors residents, will be engaged by the most rigorous agenda on the seven seas. From sittercise on the Lido Deck, to rise & shine poolside, men’s and women’s poker clubs in the ship’s casino, sensory lane on Deck 3, and more, there will be a full schedule of physical, intellectual, and social activity. Keeping everyone busy in mind, body and spirit is crucial to promoting health and well-being. Delivering the highest level of care and promoting active lifestyles has made Arbors Care Center one of the most highly regarded and recognized nursing homes in the area.

All hands will be on deck to ensure “Cruise Week 2011” is one of the most memorable experiences ever for Arbors’ residents.

John Amory, Administrator, will take on the added responsibility of ship’s captain, in overall charge of the ship, hospitality operations and guest services. By shared coincidence, Amory descends from a long line of ship captains. Noticing the irony, Amory said whimsically, “There has been a ship’s captain in almost every generation of my family. My brother is a captain and builds his own boats. I have an uncle who was in the Merchant Marines. Going way back, an ancestor of mine, Captain John Amory of Boston, was a government-sanctioned privateer. I guess it’s in my veins.” No doubt, with Amory at the helm, a dedicated staff on deck, and non-stop waves of fun and entertainment on the menu, “Cruise Week 2011” at Arbors Care Center will be a week to remember.

An integral part of H. Hovnanian Industry’s 55-acre continuum of care campus, Arbors Care Center serves 120 residents for both long and short term stays. The campus also includes Silverwoods, an independent living community, and The Haven at Silverwoods, an assisted living residence for individuals who need help on a more limited basis. For those individuals requiring rehabilitative services, Arbors Care Center offers postoperative and orthopedic care, all under the direction of a licensed physician. Professional nurses supervise health care around the clock, and a physician is always on call. Arbors Care Center offers three levels of care: traditional long-term care, post-hospital rehabilitation (short-term care) and respite care services.

Donna Schwartzman CSW, LNHA, Administrator at Holiday Care Center, has been one of JoAnn’s most vociferous boosters. “JoAnn is a strong leader who is slight in stature, which is no match for the enormous ownership or energy that she demonstrates when caring for the residents and managing the staff. She understands the balance required of being kind and gentle, while being in a position of authority to get the best outcomes for residents and staff.”  

For almost 18 years, JoAnn has been a dedicated nurse at Holiday Care Center. The 180 bed facility in Toms River provides a wide array of specialized 24/7 nursing care, including care for chronically ill residents, those in need of sub acute care, rehab services, physical, occupational, speech therapy and more.  The beloved and well-respected LPN has served as a staff nurse on each of the facility’s three nursing units.  Since 2000, she has been a Supervisory Nurse, and for nine years the Unit Manager of Jefferson Unit, a 60 bed Long Term Care residence.   

In the strong opinion of Robin L. Clausen, BSN, RN, C and Holiday Care Center Director of Nursing, the recognition is further testament to JoAnn’s meticulous dedication to her patients and staff, and speaks to her initiative to resolve issues. “JoAnn leads her staff by example in demonstrating and requiring that standards of care be met and exceeded. She can be found routinely responding to the requests and needs of residents, families and visitors, vendors and staff. JoAnn is always moving, answering call bells, assisting with personal care and participating in care conferences and other agendas.”  

There are episodes in every life that become defining moments. JoAnn Curry remembers being a patient and having a nurse who was cold, unsupportive and without compassion. This unsettling experience was a turning point for JoAnn, and a blessing for her future patients and fellow caregivers. “It was horrible feeling not being well and not having someone to be supportive and make a difference in your recovery.” She reflects fondly on what her favorite nursing school teacher told her about being a nurse. “This is a tough profession. You have to be committed. You have to love it. Keep your sense of humor. And no matter what you do, be honest, compassionate, true to your profession, and you will always do well.”  

Outside of nursing, the life and times of JoAnn Curry begins and ends with family. “My children are my heart and my soul,” she says passionately. Married with four grown children and three grandchildren, they all meet for Sunday dinner in her home each week. Her oldest granddaughter gets the special bonus of making traditional Italian cookies with her grandmother.   

Care, kindness and understanding have always been crucial to care giving. Today so is something called MDS 3.0, a powerful organizational software tool, which the nursing care industry is transitioning to – but not without its technical hiccups. Holiday Care Center recently introduced MDS 3.0, and according to Robin Clausen, JoAnn went above and beyond to help through the technological transition. “While learning the process herself, she spent endless hours assisting the MDS coordinator to accomplish this overwhelming task. It was during this time that JoAnn showed her extraordinary leadership skills. Her wonderful sense of humor, energy and determination were instrumental in completing this transition process.” 

Too busy to take a break from the profession she has devoted a lifetime to, JoAnn continues to share her compassion, joy, and specialized talents to positively impact lives. Whether its passing out meal service, answering a call in the early morning hours, or counseling a staff member, JoAnn can always be counted on to get the job done.  “JoAnn has tremendous energy and I don’t see her slowing down anytime soon, and that is our good fortune. We look forward to JoAnn having many more years to come at Holiday Care Center, continuing to do what she does best, providing excellent leadership to the staff and delivering great care to the residents.” When New Jersey’s next LPN of the Year is being considered, JoAnn Curry will be an almost impossible act to follow.  

Holiday Care Center is one of Ocean County’s most highly regarded nursing and rehabilitative facilities.  Its diverse and specialized services include 24/7 care for the chronically ill, as well as sub-acute and convalescent care, and a state-certified Alzheimer’s/Dementia Care program.

“This last snowstorm was the worst”, says Estelle, relaxing in the beautifully decorated living room of the one-story garden apartment she moved into March 1.“  I couldn’t open the door to get out. My son finally said, “That’s it. Pack up.”    

Estelle did pack up, and briefly lived with her children. But being one who cherished her independence, perhaps even more than most, Estelle knew that for her, having her own place was the only option. Naturally her children were concerned and wanted their mom to find a place close by to their Toms River homes. So the search and the trepidations began. But ended just as fast. Upon Estelle’s first visit to Silverwoods, she knew she was ready to unpack for good.  “Once I walked in here, I made up my mind. I was very impressed. I’m very independent.”  

Silverwoods promotes individuality by the very way it is constructed. Unlike those 4 and 5 story hotel-style facilities with elevators, here residents live in large one-story garden-style apartments with wooded views, patios, porches and privacy. People can bring their own furniture, beds, linen and set up their home to suit their own taste. For people like Estelle, who cherish their freedom, Silverwoods is ideal. Residents can enjoy all the freedoms and support that inspires individuality and self-esteem.

Katie Davis, Executive Director of Silverwoods says Estelle’s story is a microcosm of so many other senior experiences. “People become overwhelmed running a house all alone. They realize that the house is just too much to maintain. They come here to get rid of the daily hassles, and focus on enjoying a more relaxed lifestyle. We’re here to take care of their needs.”

A full schedule of activities at Silverwoods creates an atmosphere that inspires enthusiasm and confidence, which is especially crucial to newer residents still adapting to life away from the homes they knew. Says Katie Davis,  “There’s always activity going on– trips, Women’s and Men’s Clubs, resident associations, opportunities to meets lots of people.” Ms. Davis added,  “Estelle was excited about being here. 30 inches of snow on the ground may have cinched it.“

Settling into a community where she could keep active on a daily basis was a vital consideration for this former Brooklynite and long time Jersey Shore resident. She has always brought boundless energy and passion into every corner of her busy life, from loving wife, devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother to career woman and active force in the community. While President of the Seaside Chapter of Deborah Hospital, Estelle was a tireless supporter and fundraiser. Her many efforts included organizing trips to the British Isles, Hawaii and Aruba.  

Though barely a month has passed, Estelle is obviously very taken with her new home and stimulating environment. “My place is very nice. Lovely. Very impressive. For someone like me, if I don’t like something, I don’t stay with it.” She continued, “I truly have everything here. They have exercise classes, a heated indoor swimming pool, and a library. I love to read. Two to three books a week. They have Saturday morning bus trips to the mall. I love to shop, too.”  

Silverwoods also features a clubhouse with restaurant, a billiards room, card room, and more. But one can’t live on amenities alone. There is a dinner meal served restaurant-style in the dining room seven days a week. How does Estelle rate the culinary offerings? “The dining room is excellent – the food is delicious.”  

The Silverwoods community is friendly and intimate, with many shared experiences and common bonds leading to future friendships. “I’ve met wonderful people here”, says Estelle. “Every day I meet someone new. I met three lovely ladies at brunch on Tuesday” (Silverwoods offers a brunch for its residents and the outside community every Tuesday). Yesterday at the luncheon trip to the Via Amalfi Restaurant I met a woman who comes from the same area of Brooklyn that I do. She knew everything about Bay Ridge.”  

It’s impossible to look at the dynamic lifestyle that Silverwoods offers, and not think about what the price tag of it all might be. Cost is a major concern for seniors living on a fixed income. As it turns out, Silverwoods is remarkably affordable. The garden apartments are not only bigger than most, but their monthly rates are cheaper than the competition. The current running special offer could save new residents up to $2,400 a year.    

At Silverwoods you get all the features, services and amenities you need to enjoy an independent lifestyle, without tying up your nest egg. With no entry or endowment fees, one low monthly fee covers your choice of 5 different floor plans. Every apartment comes with a fully equipped kitchen, individually controlled air conditioning and heating, a cozy enclosed porch and patio, pendant and pull cord security system monitored 24-hours a day, smoke detectors connected to an around-the-clock security system, full bathrooms with safety bars, window treatments and wall-to-wall carpeting in each home.  

Research has shown that meaningful activities and social relationships are integral to happy, healthy living. Promoting the highest level of well being possible, and satisfying residents’ zest for living so completely is what continues to separate Silverwoods from other senior facilities in the area. 

As the next month’s calendar of ever-expanding events arrives at her door, Estelle eagerly grabs for it and anticipates the new possibilities it will bring. “I’m still unpacking. I haven’t caught up with all there is to do here. And I have a long way to go.”  

Part of a continuum-of-care campus in Toms River, Silverwoods is one of the areas first and most highly regarded independent living residences. Delivering a high level of service, stressing independence, building long-term relationships with residents and families, and promoting active lifestyles, has created a new standard for affordable senior living.

Brick, NJ –– The Haven at Shorrock Gardens announces the first meeting of their newly created  “Alzheimer’s Academy” will take place Tuesday, January 18^th, 9:30am, at 75 Old Toms River Road in Brick, NJ.  The event is open to everyone; light refreshments will be served, and free care for the loved one will be provided during the discussion.  The topic will be: Why is this happening to me? Care for the caregiver.

What to Expect on January 18th -The January 18^th meeting is of particular importance to caregivers, who are faced with an enormity of issues––their own health being issue #1. As Alzheimer’s long and arduous journey takes its course, caregivers face tests of their stamina, resilience, and problem-solving skills. Without major support, a caregiver’s health and well-being can be compromised. During the fact-filled discussion, caregivers will learn how to weather each new crisis triggered by a loved one’s diminishing abilities, while preserving their physical and emotional fitness. For example, as communication becomes more limited, rewards are diminished, and relationships are strained.  Under these stressful conditions, even the healthiest lifestyles can come undone. By learning how to condition their responses, and prepare for these kinds of challenges, caregivers can best protect themselves.

Though everyone’s experience is unique, all caregivers meet with frustrations, anguish, and adversity, which over time can threaten their health.  Embracing new approaches and helpful hints can minimize those threats, and enhance the joys of the care giving experience.

Have caregiver concerns? You’re not alone – Following the first meeting on January 18^th, the Alzheimer’s Academy will meet on the third Tuesday of each month and bring together trained professionals, concerned caregivers and their loved ones.  Administrator Wendy Metzger says, “When I meet new people who have a loved one with Alzheimer’s, they have concerns about the disease process. This is one way to reach out, help caregivers understand the disease, and learn how they can interact and support the loved one while they’re still living at home.” She continued, “Caregivers can feel isolated. They need a break. With our ongoing program, they’re not isolated. While we take care of their loved one, caregivers can interact with others in an educational, supportive setting.” 

The idea is to keep caregivers ahead of the learning curve. Experiences are shared, questions and concerns are raised, and through knowledge and understanding, hope and confidence is gained. By discussing educational and informative issues regarding Alzheimer’s Disease, caregivers increase their capacity to care for their loved one, and themselves as well.

By setting standards of excellence for the memory impaired, The Haven has been able to attract an impressive team of caregivers who each contribute to an overall commitment to providing residents with the highest level of care.

The Haven at Shorrock Gardens has also made an ongoing commitment to the local community, reaching out to them with Alzheimer’s education and awareness, by establishing The Alzheimer’s Academy and other exceptional programs.

Specializing in the care of patients with early memory loss due to Alzheimer’s Disease, and other memory disorders, The Haven at Shorrock Gardens has become a well-respected leader in assisted living services ––right where the populations of Ocean County, and nearby communities need one most.

Years of expert planning went into designing a state-of-the-art building, and a resident-friendly floor plan built around Alzheimer’s residents’ special needs. Extra wide corridors always lead residents back to a central area, allowing freedom of movement, but without any wrong moves. Within this well designed residence are apartment accommodations for 30 residents. The privacy of home aspect helps preserve residents’ cherished independence, and numerous built-in safeguards protect their security.  Living in an environment where their dignity is respected, residents at The Haven are more apt to engage in a host of special programs and activities geared towards stimulating mental alertness, aiding memory and building confidence.

To attend, “Why is this happening to me?” Care for the Caregiver, on January 18^th, RSVP to the Alzheimer’s Academy at 732-451-1000 ext 510. The Haven at Shorrock Gardens is located at 75 Old Toms River Road in Brick.      

For more information, call 732-451-1000 or visit www.HovnanianSeniorHousing.com

    AFA encourages adults, including those with memory concerns, a family history of Alzheimer’s disease or a desire to establish a baseline score, to take advantage of the screenings and to pick up educational materials about memory concerns, successful aging and caregiving.

    The face-to-face screening takes only about five to ten minutes and consists of a series of questions and tasks. It is administered by a qualified healthcare professional, such as a physician, nurse, psychologist or social worker. The results do not represent a diagnosis, and AFA advises those individuals who score poorly or who have normal scores but are still concerned to follow up with their physician or another qualified healthcare professional.

    Now in its sixth year, AFA’s National Memory Screening Day coincides with National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, which takes place during November. Sites across the country will be participating in the event.

    On November 18, The Haven at Silverwoods will hold memory screenings at 1700 Rt. 37W. Toms River, from 9:30 am – 11:30 and & 1:30pm – 3:30 pm. FREE refreshments and door prizes will also be available. For more information or to schedule and appointment, call 732-341-0880.

    Eric J. Hall, AFA’s president and CEO, said National Memory Screening Day is an important vehicle “to open up a dialogue about memory concerns.”

    “Checking your brain health is just as critical as checking the health of the rest of your body. If you are experiencing memory problems, it is better to learn the cause earlier rather than later so that you can be pro-active,” Hall said.

    A subsequent medical exam may reveal that the person has a reversible condition such as a vitamin deficiency or thyroid problem, or an irreversible disorder like Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia. Warning signs of dementia include forgetting people’s names and events, asking repetitive questions, loss of verbal or written skills and confusion over daily routines.    

     For more information about National Memory Screening Day, visit www.nationalmemoryscreening.org or call 866-AFA-8484.

    This year, the premier sponsor of the event is Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. Forest Pharmaceuticals is the presenting sponsor; and Eisai Inc. and Pfizer Inc, and Woodbury Products are the event’s Remembrance sponsors.

    The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America is a national nonprofit organization headquartered in New York and made up of more than 950 member organizations that provide hands-on programs to meet the educational, emotional, practical and social needs of families affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related illnesses. AFA’s services include a toll-free hot line, counseling, educational materials, a free caregiver magazine, and professional training. For information, call (toll-free) 866-AFA-8484 or visit www.alzfdn.org. 

The event is part of National Memory Screening Day (NMSD), an annual initiative that the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) holds each November during National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month. Approximately 2,000 sites across the country will be participating. The Haven at Shorrock Gardens will provide the memory screenings at 75 Old Toms River Rd., Brick, NJ, from 10:00am to 4:00pm. For more information or to schedule and appointment, call 732-451-1000.

“The screenings take just five to ten minutes, but are extremely valuable for monitoring memory function,” says Wendy Metzger, Administrator at The Haven at Shorrock Gardens.” She continued, “Checking your brain is as important as checking the health of the rest of your body.”

Qualified healthcare professionals conduct the face-to-face screenings, which consist of a series of questions and tasks to test memory, language skills, thinking ability and other intellectual functions, as a first step towards the detection of memory problems. The results do not represent a diagnosis, but they can indicate whether the individual should follow up with a primary care provider or other qualified healthcare professional.

Some memory problems can be readily treated, such as those caused by vitamin deficiencies or thyroid problems. Other memory problems might result from causes that are not currently reversible, such as Alzheimer’s disease. In general, the earlier the diagnosis, the easier it is to treat one of these conditions.

Memory screenings are for adults concerned about memory loss or experiencing warning signs of dementia; whose family and friends have noticed changes in them; or who believe they are at risk due to a family history of Alzheimer’s disease or a related illness. Screenings also are appropriate for those who do not have a concern right now, but who want to see how their memory is now for future comparisons.

“Be proactive about your memory,” said Eric J. Hall, AFA’s president and CEO. “People need to understand that Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of aging. If you notice memory problems, don’t be afraid to take steps to find out what’s really going on. Available treatments and support services can improve quality of life.”

Warning signs of dementia include forgetting people’s names and events, asking repetitive questions, loss of verbal or written skills and confusion over daily routines.

Currently, as many as 5.1 million Americans have Alzheimer’s disease, and the incidence is rising in line with the aging population. Advanced age is the greatest known risk factor. The prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease doubles every five years beyond age 65. 

The Haven at Shorrock Gardens offers residents with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias a comfortable, home-like atmosphere with cozy accommodations. The Haven was specially designed to provide memory care in a secure assisted living setting. The highly qualified staff of The Haven has received specialized training in memory care techniques and provides individual and personalized care and attention to all our residents. The Haven is conveniently attached to Shorrock Gardens Care Center, which provides a complete continuum of care if needed.

Visit The Haven at Shorrock Gardens online at www.HovnanianSeniorHousing.com  or in person at   75 Old Toms River Road in Brick, NJ. For more information on the free Memory Screen or on The Haven at Shorrock Gardens, please call 732-451-1000.

Not content with simply eliminating entry and endowment fees, Silverwoods has taken the unprecedented step of reducing its fees even further to rates not seen since 2006. And with homes continuing to depreciate in value, and the cost of upkeep becoming more and more expensive, Silverwoods makes financial sense for elderly home owners looking to downsize. According to Katie Davis, Executive Director, “Our residents don’t have to worry about fixing the air conditioning, replacing the fridge, or making costly repairs around their house. Here, their needs are taken care of right away.”

But the cost of home ownership isn’t the only concern adult children with elderly parents have. Health issues, isolation, depression, nutrition and safety also play major roles in deciding what to do next. While each resident has different needs, Silverwoods provides an array of services – such as an on-site health & wellness nurse, social activities, weekly housekeeping , and full course meals each night in the clubhouse restaurant – designed to foster a greater sense of community and well-being.

Residents also discover a unique balance between the freedom of independent living and the security of knowing they’re in safe hands. Each garden apartment features a fully equipped kitchen, washer/dryer, individually controlled air conditioning and heating, and a full bathroom with safety bars. There is also on-site medical professionals (physician’s office, podiatrist, optician, audiologist, physical therapy), and campus-wide emergency pull cords to ensure immediate response if necessary.

Notes Katie Davis, “60% of all residents first visit Silverwoods with their children. Once they see what we can provide, families have greater piece of mind knowing their loved ones are receiving the services and attention they deserve.”

Silverwoods is located at 1700 Rt. 37 West in Toms River. To find out more about life at Silverwoods, call 800-743-5880 or visit our web site at www.Hovnanian SeniorHousing.com

Like any wedding, preparations have been extensive. Festivities began a week prior to the event with organized bachelorette and bachelor parties. Flowers and decorations were abound, and brought elegance to the setting. Ceremonial music was arranged and performed by singers from area senior groups. The Center’s lobby was magically transformed to resemble a church and a local minister presided over the non-denominational ceremony.

Following typical wedding tradition a reception followed with refreshments, music and dancing for residents & guests. The celebration was topped off with a magnificent wedding cake which was enjoyed by all.

According to Dottie Brennen, Holiday Care Center’s Activity Director, “We began the tradition of offering an opportunity for couples to show their love and commitment to each other. The ceremony and celebration bring our whole community together, calling attention to the importance of these relationships.”

“Helping these couples renew their commitment to each other is just one more way that we’ve committed to improving the quality of life for our residents,” notes Donna Schwartzman, Administrator at Holiday Care Center. She continued, “Regular involvement with activities that are social, educational, or recreational brings us all closer together and reinforces the positive environment here at Holiday Care Center.”

In addition to providing nursing services for chronically ill residents, Holiday Care Center also offers sub-acute (short-term) care, convalescent care and rehab services (physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapies). The Memory Care Unit specializes in providing care for residents with memory impairment such as dementia and other related diseases.  Holiday Care Center is a safe, secure environment with a caring professional staff, which includes licensed nurses and physicians who are on call around the clock. A lovely plant-lined atrium entrance sets the tone for this modern facility that includes such amenities as a grand living room with designer furniture, a carpeted dining room and several outdoor patio gardens.

For more information about Holiday Care Center, call (732) 240-0900 or visit us at 4 Plaza Drive in Toms River, NJ, or visit www.HovnanianSeniorHousing.com.

The Holiday Carolers, comprised of 14 Arbors residents, have been rehearsing together for 6 weeks in preparation for the big day. As Arbors resident and caroler Senta Gilman says, “you can’t celebrate Christmas without music. Music is such an important part of the holiday season.”  And that’s exactly what’s on the program– 16 holiday classics to be exact– from  “White Christmas” to “Silver Bells” to “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.”  The Carolers will be dressed in their fa-la-la-la finest, wearing matching red shirts and Santa hats, as they bring cascades of merriment throughout the residence, cheerfully escorted  by the staff and family volunteers. After an hour of caroling, the celebration will move to the festively decorated front lobby, and center around the elaborate, Victorian style 12 ft.  Christmas tree for a grand finale rendition of “Silver Bells.”  All the residents and volunteers will gather for cookies, egg nog and warm reflections on a most memorable day.  Arbors resident, and fellow caroler

John Matuska, sums it up best by saying, “it makes me happy to see others smile when they listen to us sing. It’s so important to smile during the Christmas season.” John Amory, Administrator added, “we recognize how important it is to maintain the personal holiday traditions that people grew up with. An event like this promotes a sense of community within the residence. They’ve been practicing for a long time leading up to the event. They’re very dedicated to it – It means a lot to them.”

An integral part of H. Hovnanian Industry’s 55-acre continuum of care campus, Arbors Care Center serves 120 residents for both long and short term stays. The campus also includes Silverwoods, an independent living community, and The Haven at Silverwoods, an assisted living residence for individuals who need help on a more limited basis. For those individuals requiring rehabilitative services, Arbors Care Center offers postoperative and orthopedic care, all under the direction of a licensed physician. Professional nurses supervise health care around the clock, and a physician is always on call. Arbors Care Center offers three levels of care: traditional long-term care, post-hospital rehabilitation (short-term care) and respite care services.

For more information about Arbors Care Center, go to www.HovnanianSeniorHousing.com or call 732-914-0900.

Two large-scale murals, supervised by a renowned local artist (who prefers to remain anonymous) are aesthetically pleasing additions to the already attractive décor at Holiday Care Center. On the doors of the Memory Care Unit, an inviting garden scene helps to create a relaxing mood while skillfully deferring the residents from the exit doors. The murals help stimulate residents’ minds and memory skills, as they discover and remember details of the art, such as a girl on a tree swing that’s incorporated into another scene. 

“The murals are more than just pleasing to look at,” notes Donna Schwartzman, Administrator at Holiday Care Center, “they were carefully planned to be stimulating and therapeutic for the residents. Many of the residents aren’t able to leave the facility on a regular basis, and the scenes help to create a different ambiance—a warmer, friendlier setting that’s far from institutional. Simulating a change in surroundings is often beneficial.” 

In Holiday Care Center’s “Men’s Club,” a separate area where male residents can gather to socialize, another original mural creates a more masculine atmosphere. A beach scene reminiscent of South Pacific was designed to help inspire recollection of fond memories and encourage interaction between the residents.  

Dottie Brennan, Director of Activities searched the community for volunteers for over a year before she located The Ocean County Artists Guild, a non-profit organization founded in 1957. This specialized artwork was completed by guild members Kathleen Cuneo, Nick Calavas, Dolores Ziegler, Leona Chatsko, Rose Sinatra, and Virginia Nemet were responsible for the extensive project. Based in Island Heights, NJ, the Ocean County Artists Guild offers a schedule of art classes for people of all ages and regularly exhibits the work of its members.

Holiday Care Center provides nursing services for chronically ill residents, as well as those in need of sub acute care, convalescent care and rehab services: physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy.  The Memory Care Unit specializes in providing care for residents with memory impairment such as dementia and other related diseases.  Holiday Care Center is a safe, secure environment with a caring professional staff, which includes licensed nurses and physicians who are on call around the clock. A lovely plant-lined atrium entrance sets the tone for this modern facility that includes such amenities as a grand living room with designer furniture, a carpeted dining room and several outdoor patio gardens.

For more information about Holiday Care Center, call (732) 240-0900 or visit us at 4 Plaza Drive in Toms River, NJ, or visit www.HovnanianSeniorHousing.com.