2024 Spring Activities with the Hartwell Place Community
This spring at Hartwell Place has been full of fun activities and outings. In February, Hartwell Place residents and team members took a trip to the Art Institute of Chicago. One of the best parts about being in Chicago is taking advantage of the museums and cultural institutions across our beautiful city. […]
Older Americans Month at CMSS: Powered by Connection
Established in 1963, Older Americans Month is celebrated each May. Led by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), a federal agency, Older Americans Month recognizes older Americans’ contributions, highlights aging trends, and reaffirms commitments to serving older adults in our communities. This year’s theme, “Powered by Connection,” focuses on the profound impact that meaningful connections […]
Older Adults as Political and Social Advocates
Everyone has a role to play in creating a supportive society that helps older adults thrive. This list of suggested actions and resources is meant to connect older adults, their families, and their caregivers with opportunities and information to take action.
Movies that Older Adults Can Enjoy
Movies have the power to move us, and perhaps inspire something new to think about with our lives. We have curated a list of great films that older adults may enjoy. From drama to comedy and almost everything in between, we may just have something for you.
Socially Distanced Fall Activities for Older Adults
The changing of the seasons always brings its fair share of excitement. The transition from summer to fall is accompanied by a drop in temperature, beautifully colored trees and activities to get you in the fall spirit. However, this year, your plans may be adjusted to be virtual or socially distanced. While you might not […]
How Older Adults Can Stay Connected with Friends and Family During Social Distancing
Illinois entered Phase 4 of J.B. Pritzker’s plan to reopen the state a few weeks ago, but many people are, and should be, still practicing social distancing with friends and family. Everyone misses larger gatherings such as grandkids’ weddings, senior community events and trips to museums and art galleries. However, it’s a good idea for […]
How Pen Pal Programs Create Bonds for CMSS Residents
In the digital world of tweets, likes, shares and follows, many people underestimate the power of a handwritten letter. Many in younger generations have not experienced the thrill of receiving a letter or postcard in the mail and writing back to friends or family. But at Chicago Methodist Senior Services (CMSS), we know just how […]
Get to Know CMSS’ Community Partners
With the holiday season upon us, we’re thinking more than ever at Chicago Methodist Senior Services about how grateful we are to be part of a caring and collaborative community. Our work with older adults is greatly enriched by a variety of partners in Andersonville, Edgewater, and the greater Chicagoland community. As we close out […]
Music for Seniors: World-famous Violinist Lindsey Stirling Visits CMSS
Have you ever gotten the chance to listen to a famous musician from a few feet away? Residents of Chicago Methodist Senior Services’ Wesley Place recently got to experience one-on-one live performances from world-famous violinist Lindsey Stirling. The former America’s Got Talent and Dancing With the Stars contestant went room to room, performing some of […]
Summertime Senior Living in Andersonville
There are few cities that compare to summertime in Chicago. With a beautiful lakefront, an exciting downtown scene and dozens of charming neighborhoods, it’s a great place to consider when thinking about senior living options. In Andersonville, senior living residents can enjoy a variety of summer activities, from the farmers market to music and art […]
Compare Assisted Living Options: What To Look For
Are you searching for an assisted living community for yourself or a loved one? As you compare assisted living options, you’ll soon realize how different each can be. To make sure the assisted living communities you’re interested in actually fit your needs, take a close look at their care, programs and amenities. Care that fits […]
Three Memoirs Written By Women You Need to Read Now
There’s nothing quite like discovering a book you just can’t put down. A well-written memoir can draw you into the author’s experiences, and give you a sense of what it might be like to live in their shoes. This Women’s History Month, we want to honor some of the inspiring women who shared their unique […]
How to Celebrate Women’s History Month in Chicago
Every March, Women’s History month gives us a chance to step back and appreciate the amazing women in our lives. Chicago has been home to many historically important women — from women who impacted our nation’s trajectory to women of today leading us forward. Here are three ways you can honor the achievements of local […]
This Black History Month, Resources to Learn About Chicago History
February is Black History Month, a time to celebrate and learn about the history of African-Americans locally and nationally. Chicago has been the site of many significant events in African-American history — from the Great Migration to former president Barack Obama’s acceptance speech. As February comes to a close, take set aside some time to […]
New Year’s Resolutions to Practice All Year
Did you make any New Year’s resolutions for 2017? It seems like every year, people set goals at the beginning of the year, only to put them aside just a few short weeks into January. But as February approaches, we have ideas for resolutions worth working toward all year long. Enjoy! Broaden your horizons One […]
Four Andersonville Activities for People of All Ages
We may be a little biased, but we feel Andersonville is one of Chicago’s most vibrant neighborhoods. From its wide variety of restaurants and endless opportunities for window shopping, there’s always something new to explore for people of all ages. Here are just a few of our favorite Andersonville activities that you can enjoy on […]
Our Favorite Holiday Events in Andersonville and Edgewater
While this year’s St. Lucia Festival at the Swedish American Museum has already passed, there’s still plenty of holiday cheer to be had in Andersonville, Edgewater and nearby neighborhoods. Whatever holidays you celebrate and whatever your favorite traditions, take some time to look through the festivities and find something to enjoy. Explore holiday events Are […]
Our Favorite TV Shows Featuring Older Actors
From public stories of defending the nation to personal stories of dealing with heartbreak or falling in love, these are a few of our favorite TV shows featuring older actors.
Four Podcasts For Starters
Podcasts are becoming an increasingly popular way to consume news, stories, and other content. People enjoy the personalized touches of listening to their hosts talk, with the added bonus that you can enjoy podcasts while on the go — streaming podcasts in the car, putting in headphones while on a run, etc. For adults of […]
Caregivers: Ways to Engage Your Loved Ones in Fun Activities
In addition to the games and craft projects we’ve been discussing, there are many other activities that you can enjoy with your older loved ones. Whether your loved one is dealing with dementia or a physical illness, many of these activities can be adapted to fit their needs and abilities.
Fun and Therapeutic Arts and Crafts Projects for Older Adults
Arts and crafts can be more than just a fun recreational activity for seniors: as The Assisted Living Federation of America and the American Art Therapy Association explain, art therapy allows older adults to work through their psychological issues more readily than traditional talk therapy.
Rainy Day Activity: Track Your Family Tree
If you’ve ever wanted to track your family history, you’ve likely been overwhelmed by the number of resources available to you. A quick Google search presents an overwhelming number of websites that offer the ability to trace your lineage. How do you even figure out where to start? Gathering Identifying Information Before you start digging […]
10 Ways to Spend Time with Grandparents and Older Adults This Summer
Are you looking for ways to enjoy the summer with your grandparent, parent or other older adult in your life? Here are 10 things to do this summer that you’ll both love.
How to Make Flying with Seniors a Breeze
Traveling with your loved ones is one of the most special ways to spend time together. Certain aspects of traveling with older adults, including flying, can present unique challenges in your journey. In order to make travel a breeze, we suggest the following tips. Request special airport services in advance With advanced planning, a trip […]
Top Five Websites For Aging Adults
Having a good idea of websites to visit before you sit down can make it a beneficial, eye opening and even therapeutic pastime.
