february 2018 be good to your heart - youville assisted living … · 2018-02-01 · men, no more...

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Assisted Living Residences • Limit alcohol intake. Men, no more than two drinks per day; women, no more than one drink per day. • Try to get at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days of the week. • Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. ese contain antioxidants that are good for your heart. • Foods high in Omega 3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish, avocadoes, and olive oil are great for your cardiovascular system. Omega 3 supplements are also available at most pharmacies (consult your doctor before beginning supplements). Habits are easier to break when you’re not alone: let your friends, family and doctor know about your goals. Join an exercise group or a singing group (there is evidence that singing and socialization may be good for your heart). Most importantly, don’t get discouraged. Take it a step at a time, and realize that even small steps in the right direction are likely to have a positive impact on your heart’s health. February is American Heart Month. It’s a time to be extra vigilant about your cardiovascular health and to consider the ways in which you might adopt a more “heart-healthy” lifestyle. Heart disease remains a frighteningly common occurrence. In spite of decades of research and medical advances, it is still the leading cause of death of both men and women in America. e most common form of heart disease is known as coronary artery disease. Coronary artery disease occurs when the arteries that feed blood to the heart become clogged up with a substance called plaque. Plaque causes the arteries to narrow, slowing the flow of blood and sometimes resulting in total blockage. A lack of adequate blood flow to the heart can result in a myocardial infarction, or heart attack. e good news is that you can eliminate or reduce the main risk factors of heart disease through targeted lifestyle changes. Here are some of the most commonly prescribed remedies: • Stop smoking. Smoking has been associated with 54% of heart disease cases. Be Good to Your Heart February 2018 Super Bowl LII New England Patriots vs Philadelphia Eagles Sunday, February 4 at 6:30 PM Can the Patriots repeat last year’s Super Bowl victory? Find out on Super Bowl Sunday with fellow residents in the Community Room!

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Assisted Living Residences

• Limit alcohol intake. Men, no more than two drinks per day; women, no more than one drink per day.

• Try to get at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days of the week.

• Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. These contain antioxidants that are good for your heart.

• Foods high in Omega 3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish, avocadoes, and olive oil are great for your cardiovascular system. Omega 3 supplements are also available at most pharmacies (consult your doctor before beginning supplements).

Habits are easier to break when you’re not alone: let your friends, family and doctor know about your goals. Join an exercise group or a singing group (there is evidence that singing and socialization may be good for your heart). Most importantly, don’t get discouraged. Take it a step at a time, and realize that even small steps in the right direction are likely to have a positive impact on your heart’s health.

February is American Heart Month. It’s a time to be extra vigilant about your cardiovascular health and to consider the ways in which you might adopt a more “heart-healthy” lifestyle. Heart disease remains a frighteningly common occurrence. In spite of decades of research and medical advances, it is still the leading cause of death of both men and women in America.

The most common form of heart disease is known as coronary artery disease. Coronary artery disease occurs when the arteries that feed blood to the heart become clogged up with a substance called plaque. Plaque causes the arteries to narrow, slowing the flow of blood and sometimes resulting in total blockage. A lack of adequate blood flow to the heart can result in a myocardial infarction, or heart attack.

The good news is that you can eliminate or reduce the main risk factors of heart disease through targeted lifestyle changes. Here are some of the most commonly prescribed remedies: • Stop smoking. Smoking has been associated with 54% of heart disease cases.

Be Good to Your Heart February 2018

Super Bowl LIINew England Patriots vs Philadelphia EaglesSunday, February 4 at 6:30 PMCan the Patriots repeat last year’s Super Bowl victory? Find out on Super Bowl Sunday with fellow residents in the Community Room!

Lunch Trip: MargaritasWednesday, February 14Depart: 11:00 AMReturn: 2:00 PM Cost: $ for lunch Celebrate Valentine’s Day with lunch out on the town! Margaritas offers delicious Mexican fare like enchiladas, street tacos, fresh guacamole and other treats.

Lunch Trip: The Great WallWednesday, February 28Depart: 11:30 AMReturn: 2:00 PM Cost: $ for lunch Celebrate the Chinese New Year with lunch at The Great Wall Chinese restaurant in Bedford.

OMA Art ShowSaturday, February 10 from 3:00-5:00PM

Youville is thrilled to host an art show and reception featuring art created through the Opening Minds through Art (OMA) program on The Courtyard. Courtyard residents who participated in OMA met with younger assistants from the community on a weekly basis to create a vibrant body of work. See for yourself what they created! Join the reception, enjoy the artwork and learn more about the OMA program and its powerful impact.

“Like” us on FacebookThis newsletter comes out once a month. Interested in connecting with us more often? Visit our Facebook page any time for updates, photos, videos and more. When you “like” us on Facebook, we will send you updates and links to our most recent news. Just search for Youville Assisted Living on Facebook and click “like.” See you on the web!

Community OutingsFebruary Concerts

Jazz Performance w/ Lydia Harrell & Steven HiggsSunday, February 4 at 2:00 PMLydia Harrell’s sultry, soulful voice and evocative songwriting have garnered her nationwide attention and an ongoing performing schedule. While her heart is with Jazz and Soul, she has the ability to mold her style into any musical situation that may present itself! Lydia has performed with the Boston Pops, sung the National Anthem at NBA games and lent her vocal talents to chart-topping singles produced by the British record label, Reel People Music. Don’t miss her as she performs with pianist Steven Higgs!

History of Jazz Series with Ross PetotImprovisation and The Great American SongbookSunday, February 18 at 2:00 PMThe History of Jazz series covers two centuries of America’s most treasured musical heritage. This presentation will explore the fruitful relationship between the great song-crafters such as Berlin, Gershwin and Porter, and the improvisers who used these songs as a framework for musical discovery. Presenter Ross Petot is an accomplished jazz pianist as well as a published composer.

The Broadway Lady: Andrea Lyman Wednesday, February 21 at 2:00 PMDon’t miss the talented Andrea Lyman as she performs her solo cabaret show, “Broadway Lady.” Lyman will deliver songs and stories from Broadway hits such as My Fair Lady, The King and I and a variety of standards by Cole Porter, Eubie Blake and Rogers & Hart.

An Afternoon of Music with Nancy DayTuesday, February 27 at 2:00 PMAn accomplished pianist, singer and composer, Nancy Day consistently thrills audiences with her dynamic performances. She draws from a wide-ranging repertoire that includes jazz, country, ragtime, musical theater and enchanting love songs.

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ArtMatters Presents . . . Paul GauguinTuesday, February 13 at 2:00 PMIntellectual, scoundrel, self-described savage, champion of human rights and shameless opportunist. Paul Gauguin was all of the above. He led an adventurous life, traveling back and forth across the globe and immersing himself in many cultures. Join us for a look at the art and life of Paul Gauguin.

Silent Movie Presentation with Richard HughesThe Little Tramp: Charlie Chaplin at WorkSaturday, February 17 at 1:30 PMMaster pianist and movie expert Richard Hughes takes you back to the magical era of silent movies. It was a time when films flickered in black and white on the big screen and the action unfolded in pantomime, accompanied by dramatic “mood music” performed live on an upright piano. In his upcoming presentation, Mr. Hughes provides live musical accompaniment to movie clips showcasing the mischief that only Charlie Chaplin could get into while innocently attempting to earn a living.

Valentine Ball with Michael WinwardTuesday, February 20 at 2:00 PMIf you cherish fond memories of ballroom dancing, you won’t want to miss our special Valentine Ball. With instructor Michael Winward hosting and leading, dancers of all abilities will be able to get moving in a supportive and joyful environment. Dance encourages good posture, offers low-impact, cardiovascular exercise, and connects people through the skills of leading and following. Most importantly, it’s fun!

Bible Series wiht Rabbi Neal GoldThe Old, Weird BibleTuesday, February 6 at 2:00 PMThe Bible as we know it is a palimpsest that reveals ancient, pre-biblical myths and stories. Rabbi Neal Gold will reveal the traces of these ancient writings as they appear through the editorial seams of the Bible. He will explore why they are there, what they mean, and their strange influence over the biblical narratives. In this fascinating lecture, The Bible becomes a vast literary work steeped in complexity and strangeness.

Broadway Seated Dance with Phyllis RittnerWednesday, February 7, 14, 21 & 28 at 9:30 AMBroadway Seated Dance is a music and dance program for older adults who love the upbeat tunes from movie musicals, Broadway and the popular performers dazzling audiences between the 1930s and 1960s. This program includes a gentle warm up, easy-to-follow body movements and a relaxing cool down. The exercises are designed to improve cardiovascular function, range of motion, muscle tone, posture, circulation and flexibility. Be sure to join us on Wednesday mornings!

Name Those Love Tunes with Jack CraigThursday, February 8 at 1:30 PMJust in time for Valentine’s Day, Jack Craig has repurposed the old “Name That Tune” game show to focus on popular love songs! “Name Those Love Tunes” will include an assortment of 20 different love songs for the audience to identify. Best of all, we will sing through all twenty songs together and learn fascinating background information about them!

Drumming Circle with SoulWorks Rhythm Monday, February 12 at 2:00 PMExperience the exhilaration of communal drumming! For centuries, many cultures have made drumming a central part of communal life. Recently, drumming has been associated with therapeutic benefits like lower blood pressure and stress relief. SoulWorks Rhythm will provide an array of drums and guide participants through traditional drumming techniques.

Monthly Highlights...

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9:30 Stretch & Flex10:15 Art Expressions11:00 Chaplet of Divine Mercy 2:00 ArtMatters presents... Paul Gauguin 3:30 Black Jack 7:00 Movie: A Charlie Brown Valentine

9:30 Stretch & Flex 10:30 Chaplet of Divine Mercy11:00 Confessions 2:00 Valentine Dance w/ Michael Winward 3:30 Black Jack 7:00 Movie: Breaker Morant

Valentine’s Day Ash Wednesday 9:30 Broadway Seated Dance10:30 Ash Wednesday Mass11:00 Lunch Trip: Margarita’s 2:00 Valentine Traditions 3:30 Netflix Original Series: The Crown: Season 2 7:00 Documentary Movie: TBA

9:30 Broadway Seated Dance 10:30 Centering Prayer 2:00 The Broadway Lady... Andrea Lyman 3:30 Netflix Original Series: The Crown: Season 2 7:00 Documentary Movie: Aida’s Secret

9:30 Yoga w/ Veronica Wollf 2:00 Forever Fit! 4:00 Celebrate Chinese New Year @ Happy Hour 7:00 Music & Musical Film: Fiddler on the Roof

9:30 Balance Challenge 9:30 Shopping Trip: Burlington Market Basket 2:00 Acrylic Painting w/ Eddie Bruckner 3:15 Flower Arranging 7:00 Movie: Mame

9:30 Balance Challenge 9:30 Shopping Trip: Bedford Stop & Shop11:00 Stations of the Cross12:00 Birthday Luncheon 1:30 Caring Canines 3:15 Flower Arranging 7:00 Movie: Battle of the Sexes

9:30 Balance Challenge9:30 Shopping Trip: Bedford Stop & Shop10:30 Current Events with Pam11:00 Stations of the Cross 2:00 Mindful Meditation 3:15 Flower Arranging 7:00 Movie: Wonder

9:30 Stretch & Flex10:30 Catch Your Story: A Memoir Sharing Group 1:30 Silent Movie... The Little Tramp w/ Richard Hughes 3:00 Winter Warmers 7:00 Movie: 12 Years a Slave

9:30 Stretch & Flex10:30 Group Crosswords 1:30 Bonus Bingo 3:00 Winter Warmers 7:00 Movie: Murder on the Orient Express

9:30 Balance Challenge10:15 Poetry & Prose: Valentine Verses 2:00 Drumming Circle w/ SoulWorks Rhythm 3:30 Bingo 7:00 Movie: Duets

2:00 Jazz Performace w/ Lydia Harrell & Steven Higgs 6:30 Super Bowl LII New England Patriots vs. Philadelphia Eagles

2:00 Classic Matinee Movie: The Sting 7:00 Classic Movie: The Sting

2:00 The History of Jazz Series w/ Ross Petot 7:00 Classic Movie: The Great Escape

Country StoreHours

Monday, Wednesday & Friday 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Presidents’ Day 9:30 Balance Challenge10:15 The News Game 2:00 Presidents’ Day Social 3:30 Bingo 7:00 Movie: Lucky

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9:30 Stretch & Flex10:30 Art Expressions11:00 Chaplet of Divine Mercy 2:00 Bible Series: The Old, Weird Bible w/ Rabbi Neal Gold 3:30 Black Jack 7:00 Movie: The King’s Speech

9:30 Yoga w/ Veronica Wollf 1:00 Trans. to Lexington Ctr. 2:00 Forever Fit! 4:00 Celebrate National Margarita Day @ Happy Hour 7:00 Music & Musical Film: If I Am Lucky

9:30 Stretch & Flex10:30 Scramble Words 1:30 Bonus Bingo 3:00 Winter Warmers 3:00- 5:00 OMA Art Gallery Reception 7:00 Movie: City Slickers

9:30 Balance Challenge10:30 Low Vision Support Group 2:00 February Jeopardy Trivia 3:30 Bingo 7:00 Movie: The Hundred-Foot Journey

9:30 Broadway Seated Dance10:30 Centering Prayer 1:00 Blood Pressure Clinic 1:30 Wellness Talk w/ Stacy Ramos 2:30 Farewell Tea for Sophie W. 3:30 Netflix Original Series: The Crown: Season 2 7:00 Documentary Movie: Miss Representation

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9:30 Yoga w/ Veronica Wollf10:30 Nurse’s Chat 1:00 Trans. to Lexington Ctr. 1:30 Songs of Love w/ Jack Craig 4:00 Grapefruit Themed Happy Hour 7:00 Music & Musical Film: Cats

9:30 Stretch & Flex10:30 Catch Your Story: A Memoir Sharing Group11:00 Fatima Rosary Group 2:00 Secretaries of State Series Henri Kissinger w/ Gary Hylander 3:00 Winter Warmers 7:00 Movie: Presumed Innocent

Hair Salon HoursThursday, Friday & Saturday

8:30 AM - 12:00 PM

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9:30 Balance Challenge10:15 Poetry & Prose: Rudyard Kipling 2:00 An Afternoon w/ Walt Whitman Presented by Stephen Collins 3:30 Bingo 7:00 Movie: Last Vegas

2:00 Classic Matinee Movie: Pippin: Special Edition 7:00 Classic Movie: Pippin: Special Edition

Manicures & Pedicures w/ ConnieWednesday, February 7 & 28

Manicures w/ JoanneFriday, February 234:30 PM - 6:30 PM

New Transportation HoursMonday through Friday

8:00 AM- 2:00 PM

9:30 Stretch & Flex10:15 Let’s Talk Food11:00 Chaplet of Divine Mercy 2:00 An Afternoon of Music w/ Pianist Nancy Day 3:30 Black Jack 7:00 Movie: Victoria & Abdul

Groundhog Day 9:30 Balance Challenge 9:30 Shopping Trip: Lexington Stop & Shop 1:00 Blood Pressure Clinic 2:00 Shall We Dance w/ Pianist Sivan Etedgee 3:15 Flower Arranging 7:00 Movie: Ghostbusters

9:30 Broadway Seated Dance 10:30 Centering Prayer 11:30 Lunch Trip: The Great Wall 2:00 Art History: Salvador Dali 3:30 Netflix Original Series: The Crown: Season 2 7:00 Documentary Movie: Goya: Crazy Like a Genius

9:30 Yoga w/ Veronica Wollf10:30 Programs Planning Mtg. 2:00 Resident Management Mtg. 4:00 Super Bowl Themed Happy Hour 7:00 Music & Musical Film: The Unsinkable Molly Brown

Groundhog Day: A Timeless Winter Ritual A Note from The Valentine’s Day Fairy Godmotherby Rita Watson

I am an incurable romantic. As a teenager my aunt taught us to think “Love.” She told us to wear silk nightgowns, a strand of pearls, and a splash of Joy perfume to bed each night saying, “You never know who you will meet in your dreams.” So I decided that when I grew up, I would become the Valentine Fairy Godmother, sprinkling hearts and flowers on all of the roads and streets.

Today, I would like to declare a day to rewrite the book of love and forgiveness, create a memory, encourage gratitude even when it is difficult to do so, and send good wishes to young people, who are so much a part of happiness. The tradition of Valentine’s Day cards and gifts dates back to the 1500’s, when young people in France and England gathered around a box in the village square to draw the name of the one person who would be their love for the year. For many adults, the Valentine’s Day frenzy makes us want to feel loved. We want a card with hearts and flowers. Most of us forget that the way to be loved is to give love to those around us. Consider the advice of the man who wrote the book titled Love, Dr. Leo Buscaglia: ”What love we’ve given, we’ll have forever. What love we fail to give, will be lost for all eternity.”

Dr. Buscaglia reminds us to take a chance and tell people we love them — children, parents, friends. Love also means forgiving someone who has hurt you. Build a room in your heart for that person and send them wishes for a good life Find ways to show a no-strings-attached love to family, to friends, even to strangers. Let Dr. Buscaglia’s words resonate in your own life.

Rita Watson, A Yale M.P.H., is a Youville resident who writes “With Love and Gratitude” for PsychologyToday.com. This was adapted from her columns.

On February 2nd, at 7:20 AM, the most sagacious of all hibernating mammals will emerge from his winter slumber in the small town of Punxatawney, Pennsylvania for the 132nd forecast of his illustrious career. “Punxatawney Phil” is the world’s oldest and most famous groundhog, and according to the folks of Punxatawney, he is the only groundhog capable of making long-term weather predictions.

If the sun is out and Phil sees his shadow, we’re in for another six weeks of winter. If Phil does not see his shadow, he will remain above ground in anticipation of the early coming of spring. Phil will convey his findings in the little-known language of “Groundhogese” to a member of his Inner Circle, a group of local dignitarieswho preside over Phil’s annual public appearances. Thousands will travel to Punxatawney just to behold this time-honored ceremony.

If you’re skeptical about a groundhog’s genius for predicting the weather, just remember: Phil has had a lot of experience! At 132 years old, he has lived roughly 18 groundhog life spans, thanks to the mysterious “Groundhog Punch” he is fed by the members of his Inner Circle.

Long before his first prediction in 1887, a long line of winter folklore thrived in Europe in which February 2nd was seen as a pivotal seasonal moment. Various rodentswere thought to possess mysterious faculties that could predict the weather. The Catholic observance of Candlemas Day on February 2nd became associated with similar predictions. According to an old English song:

If Candlemas be fair and bright,Come, Winter, have another flight;If Candlemas brings clouds and rain,Go Winter, and come not again.

Let’s hope for a cloudy sky, a shadowless groundhog and a quick return to spring!

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Grow as a Person Opportunities

Secretaries of State Series with Gary HylanderHenry KissingerSaturday, February 3 at 2:00 PMHenry Kissinger served as both Secretary of State and National Security Advisor to President Nixon. In these roles, Kissinger exerted enormous influence over American foreign policy during the tumult of the Vietnam War, conflict with the Soviet Union, China and the threat of war in the Middle East. He was heavily influenced by the examples of Metternich and Bismarck, both foreign ministers who had practiced the diplomacy of realpolitik. For Kissinger, the balance of power, triangulation and personal diplomacy were the keys to American security.

Acrylic Painting Class with Eddie Bruckner Friday, February 9 at 2:00 PMThis 1.5 hour class will guide participants through a traditional landscape painting. Working with acrylic paints, instructor Eddie Bruckner will demonstrate different techniques during hands-on painting such as the preparation of materials, color mixing and specific brush techniques.

Stephen Collins PresentsUnlaunched Voices: An Evening with Walt WhitmanMonday, February 26 at 2:00 PMStephen Collins combines a passion for literature with professional acting talent, bringing both literature and the writers themselves to life for audiences. Collins has portrayed Shakespeare and led discussions on a variety of poets, novelists and playwrights. However, his most popular and acclaimed performance is as Walt Whitman. Not only does Mr. Collins resemble the poet, he does an amazing job bringing him to life through dramatic readings of his poetry and a thoroughly imagined performance as Whitman.

Lexington Stop & ShopFriday, February 2Time: 9:30 AM Return: 11:00 AMLexington Center / Walgreen’sThursday, February 8 & 22Time: 1:00 PM Return: 2:30 PMBurlington Market BasketFriday, February 9Time: 9:30 AM Return: 11:00 AMBedford Stop & ShopFriday, February 16 & 23 Time: 9:30 AM Return: 11:00 AM

Happy Birthday!Sr. Suzanne F. February 2Christine R. February 6Virginia M. February 11Mary S. February 12Ann G. February 28Brigid S. February 28

Residents born in January are invited to lunch in the Private Dining Room to celebrate on Friday, February 16 at 12:00 PM.

Watch the 2018Winter Olympics Pyeongchang, South KoreaThe Winter Olympics are back! This year, they will take place in Pyeongchang, South Korea. The games will run for 17 days, from February 9 through February 25.Events to look forward to include winter favorites like alpine skiing, curling, bobsled, hockey, luge, figure skating, snowboarding, biathlon, cross-country skiing, skeleton and ski jumping. New events this year include speed skating mass start, curling mixed doubles and the Alpine team event. Times for viewing the opening ceremonies and other events will be posted at the Reception desk. Stay tuned!

Shopping Trips

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Save the Dates...Programs Planning Meetingw/ Lead Programs Assistant, Simona GranfoneThursday, February 1 at 10:30 AM

Resident Management Meetingw/ Youville DirectorsThursday, February 1 at 2:00 PM

Blood Pressure ClinicWednesday, February 7 at 1:00 PM

Nurse’s Chatw/ Director of Wellness, Kathryn CarlinoThursday, February 8 at 10:30 AM

Let’s Talk Foodw/ Director of Dining Services, Dan MacRaeTuesday, February 27 at 10:15 AM

Country Store Store HoursMonday 10:00 AM - 11:30 AMWednesday 10:00 AM - 11:30 AMFriday 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Store Volunteers: Sr. Theresa R., Sr. Dolores B. & Brigid S.

Transportation Services*New Transportation HoursMonday through Friday8:00 AM - 2:00 PMThe fee for transportation is $10.00 for Lexington and $20.00 for surrounding communities. Please see the Programs Department with any questions. We will make every effort to accommodate your wishes, but please understand that no transportation can be guaranteed with less than 48 hours notice.

Programs / Menu Hotline...Have you ever wondered whether your favorite program is on the schedule for the day? Would you like to know in advance what the daily menu choices are? Now you can hear a recorded list of the daily programs as well as the menu for lunch and dinner at Youville Place. Simply call (781) 761-1334 directly, or call the Reception Desk and the receptionist will connect you.

Youville Place Management Team

Nicole Breslin CEO & PresidentJoanne Scianna COO Katie Blanchard Director of Programs Susan Snow Director of MarketingKathryn Carlino, RN Director of WellnessDan MacRae Director of Dining ServicesBob Salamanca Director of Environmental ServicesVirginia Ellis Director of Community Life Maria Benoit Director of Mission & Spiritual CareTom Landry Director of Human ResourcesPaula Desmond-Wallace Regional Controller

Mission We are a Catholic health ministry, providing

healing and care for the whole person, in service to all in our communities.

Our HeritageYouville Assisted Living Residences are communities grounded in the spirit of

St. Marguerite d’Youville, foundress of the Sisters of Charity of Montreal, “Grey Nuns.” Trusting in

God’s love, each community serves all those in need with compassion and respect.

Spiritual

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Nutritional

“To be fond of dancing was a certain step toward falling in love.” -Jane Austen

In Jane Austen’s time, dancing brought young people together in much the same was as it does in our time. Dances gave young people the opportunity to socialize, to develop romantic attachments, and to have emotional experiences set to a backdrop of music and rhythm.

What better way to observe Valentine’s Day than with a throwback to the era of ballroom dance? At Youville, on Tuesday, February 20, we will hold a special Valentine Ball, hosted by instructor Michael Winward. Many Youville residents have attended “Steps in Time,” the ballroom dance class organized and led by Winward at Youville. Winward’s passion for dance is paralleled only by his love for sharing that passion with others, especially older adults.

Steps in Time: A Ballroom Dance Class for Older AdultsOn a Tuesday afternoon, Youville residents gather around the All Day Café as Winward cues the music for his first dance. In the most natural manner, he approaches “Mary,” a 100-year old resident who uses a walker. “Would you like to dance?” he asks. As the music plays, the young man and older woman glide across the floor together. With Mr. Winward leading, Mary is able to follow his steps and get into the rhythm. She is smiling, but is also focused, as are the delighted spectators in the room.

Twice a month, residents like Mary are transported in time, often surprising themselves by how easily they can relearn familiar dance steps. It helps that Mr. Winward is a natural at engaging them. A professional dancer who has won numerous competitions, he looks forward to dancing with Youville residents just as much as they enjoy dancing with a talented young partner.

“I am inspired by the idea that people of all ages can have the chance to dance,” Winward says. “Ballroom dancing has the power to bridge generational and cultural divides.”

For many who came of age during the Depression and World War II, ballroom dancing was an important part of social life and popular culture. Fred Astaire, Rita Hayworth, Ginger Rogers and Gene Kelly made timeless films in which fancy dancing was the main attraction. Though these films may seem dated to modern viewers, the allure of ballroom dancing – both as spectator and participant – lives on. Reality shows like “Dancing with the Stars” have exploded in popularity, and younger people today are discovering that dance offers a unique, structured opportunity to socialize, bond with partners and learn a new skill.

February 2018The Romance of Ballroom Dance

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Get fit. Stay sharp. Age well.©

Youville House • 1573 Cambridge Street • Cambridge, MA 02138 • 617.491.1234Youville Place • 10 Pelham Road • Lexington, MA 02421 • 781.861.3535 • www.youvilleassistedliving.org

Assisted Living Residences

Health Benefits for Older AdultsRegardless of your level of ability, dance has wide-ranging health benefits. It is one of the few cardiovascular workouts that enables you to connect physically with music in a structured social setting. Regular dancing strengthens bones and tones muscles throughout the body, leading to increased overall strength as well as improved balance and coordination. In older age, improved coordination can be invaluable in preventing falls and osteoporosis.

Dance can also reduce your risk for heart disease, the number one killer of Americans today. Just 30 minutes of moderate dancing can burn 150 calories. Long-term benefits include reduced blood pressure and improved circulation.

The popularity of ballroom dance has ebbed and flowed since its initial swell of popularity in the 1930s and 40s. In a 1992 New York Times article, a dance instructor from Princeton, Neil Clover, offered the following theory: “Whenever we have had a war or hard times, ballroom dancing has been popular.” Mr. Clover’s words ring true. In the midst of war or political upheaval, ballroom dancing can reaffirm a sense of collective civility and creative energy.

If it’s been a while since you last “cut a rug,” then all the more reason to join fellow residents and Michael Winward on Valentine’s Day. Bring your dancing shoes, your appetite (there will be snacks and refreshments!) and prepare to have a wonderful time on Tuesday, February 20th at 2:00 PM. You might be surprised by how easily the steps come back.

Broadway Seated Dance w/ Phyllis Rittner Balance Challenge Stretch & Flex Yoga w/ Veronica Wolff Cranberries are a great source of Vitamin C, fiber and an array of health-promoting antioxidants. They pack in an amazing array of phytonutrients known for their anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer properties.

Catholic Mass Centering Prayer Reflections w/ Maria Benoit Secretaries of State Series w/ Professor Gary Hylander Art Matters Presents . . . Gauguin The History of Jazz Series w/ Ross Petot

OMA Art Show Acryllic Painting Class w/ Eddie Bruckner Drumming Circle w/ SoulWorks Rhythm Name That Love Tune w/ Jack Craig

Get fit. Stay sharp. Age well.©