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Summer Heat Safety

Thermometer

Use these tips to continue your exercise routine. 

The summertime is a time of fun and relaxation for most people. But for seniors, the heat and sun can be dangerous if the proper precautions aren’t taken. Here are some great tips for a fun, safe summer. 

Stay Hydrated: Seniors are more susceptible to dehydration than younger people because they lose their ability to conserve water as they age. They also can become less aware of their thirst and have difficulty adjusting to temperature changes. Remember to drink water often, and be sure to pack some for those long summer drives. 

Talk to Your Doctor: Check with your medical team to make sure any medications you are on won’t be affected by higher temperatures. 

Keep Your Cool: Shopping malls, movie theaters and libraries provide welcome, cool spaces, and a great opportunity to get out of the house and get some exercise, without the exhaustion of the heat. “Seniors are much more vulnerable to the harmful effects of heat, as their bodies do not adjust as well to sudden changes in temperature. Some chronic medical conditions and prescription medications can impair the body’s ability to react efficiently to rising temperature.” (Kirby Pines have more than 2 miles of indoor walk ways!) 

Stay in Touch: High temperatures can be life-threatening for seniors. Let friends and family know when spending an extended period of time outdoors, even if you’re only gardening or walking. 

Wear the Right Stuff: Everyone, including seniors, should dress for the weather. When it’s warm outdoors, some people find natural fabrics (such as cotton) to be cooler than synthetic fibers. Wear light-colored and loose-fitting clothes to help feel cooler and more comfortable. Hats are also a great idea, especially for those with light colored hair and those with only distant memories of a full head of hair. 

Protect Your Eyes: Vision loss can be common among seniors, and too much exposure to the sun can irritate eyes and cause further damage. Wearing sunglasses can protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and preserve your vision. 

Couple walking outdoors

Know the Risks of Hyperthermia: During the summer, be particularly cautious about abnormally high body temperatures — a condition known as hyperthermia. Heat stroke is an advanced form of hyperthermia that can be life-threatening. Pay attention to these symptoms: • Body temperature greater than 104 degrees • A change in behavior, such as acting confused, agitated or grouchy • Dry, flushed skin • Nausea and vomiting • Headache • Heavy breathing or a rapid pulse • Not sweating, even if it’s hot outside • Fainting. “Elderly individuals have a harder time knowing when they are dehydrated and their bodies have more difficulty regulating their temperatures,” the Cleveland Clinic says. “As a result, they are more prone to heat stroke.” If you (or a loved one) start to feel any of these symptoms, ask for medical help and then get out of the heat, lie down and place ice packs on your body. 

Rub on Sunscreen: Everyone, young and old, should wear sunscreen when outdoors. 

Apply Bug Spray: The elderly are particularly prone to West Nile Virus and encephalitis, and if you spend a lot of time outdoors (particularly at night), use mosquito repellent to help reduce the risk of getting bit by a mosquito carrying this virus. 

Exercise Smart: If you enjoy outdoor activities such as walking or gardening, make sure to wear the proper clothing and protective gear. It is also important to keep track of time. Do not stay out for long periods and make sure to drink even more water than usual when exercising. Also consider getting outdoor exercise earlier in the morning or later in the evening when the sun is not at its peak. 

If you follow these tips, there’s no reason you can’t have an enjoyable and fun-filled summer! 

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There is a Spirit Here at Kirby Pines

What a Father’s Day Celebration we just enjoyed! Truly Amazing! It also got me thinking as I was mingling with our residents & guests…..there is a spirit here. Very much alive. Very much genuine. It goes deeper than getting along or having fun together. It is something very special. I don’t know that you can put it into words, but you can definitely feel it.

Here we are in July. Weren’t we just talking about Christmas and the snow? July brings thoughts of summer heat, outdoor parties and family fun. And that is what we experience here at Kirby Pines. But, there is something so much deeper here. It is the spirit that runs through the community. It’s not just liking your neighbors, it’s truly loving and caring for your fellow residents. It’s not about complaining, it’s about participating in change and making things better. It’s real. It’s heartfelt. And every time I see it demonstrated, I am overcome with pride and can’t help but smile.

Twenty-three (23) years ago, our country was swept off in the “Spirit of 76” as we celebrated our nation’s 200th birthday. It was a very prideful and patriotic time. I suggest that the “Spirit of Kirby” is far more powerful and meaningful. It lifts people up and changes lives. 

  • It is unconditional.
  • It is caring.
  • It is love.
  • It is Kirby Pines!
  • It is HOME!

Michael J. Brown, Jr.
Executive Director, Kirby Pines

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Reflections by Maxie Dunnam

If I had to do it all over again

A group of sociologists conducted a survey among a group of 50 elderly people at a life care retirement home. Each was asked to complete an open-ended sentence. “If I had it to do over again, I would ______. Three answers emerged. One, I would reflect more. Two, I would risk more. Three, I would do more things that would live on after I am dead. 

You know immediately I would say, Good lessons for our Kirby Family. The title of this monthly column is REFLECTIONS. 

How reflective are you? Do you move through life at such a hectic pace that you never stop to ask what does all this mean? Is God trying to say something to me in these circumstances? 

What about risk taking? In my preaching and teaching I often ask the question, Do you prefer the hell of a predictable situation rather than risk the joy of an unpredictable one? In reflection, as I look back on my life, the richest, most rewarding periods have come when I have taken the greatest risks. 

The third question may be the most important and challenging: What are you doing, or have done, that will be remembered after you are dead? Will the memories bring joy or sadness? Appreciation or concern? How many folks will be able to say, “I’m so glad my path crossed his”? 

I urge you to spend some deliberate time reflecting on these concerns. I close with this word, there are many who will read this column, whom I have had the privilege of meeting and knowing here at Kirby, to whom I can joyfully say, “I’m so glad my path crossed yours.” 

As I reflect, I am confronted with this challenging fact: It isn’t too late for me to do something about any one of these issues. 

-Maxie Dunnam  

Aging is an extraordinary process where you become the person you always should have been.” 


-David Bowie
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Congratulations to Our Champion of the Month: Tamekia Hooks

TAMEKIA HOOKS

Certified Nursing Assistant

Describe your family: 4 boys and a girl. One son just graduated & will study Radiology at Southwest. 

Describe yourself in five words: Affectionate, friendly, gentle, compassionate and gracious. 

What do you do for fun: Travel, sew, decorate and I love board games and playing cards. 

Do you have any hobbies: I love to cook and shop. I enjoy dressing people up. I’m big on fashion. 

What is your favorite thing about your job: Making residents smile. Caring for them gives me a purpose.

What is Your favorite food: Steak & Shrimp.

What is your favorite song: So Amazing by Luther Vandross. 

Do you have any pets: 2 Shih Tzus.

What is something you are proud of: My children. They are helpful, respectful and kind.

What would you like people to know about you: Love my coworkers. Finishing Real Estate School.

As a dedicated employee, her flexibility is unmatched. A few words you will never hear mustered from Tamekia is, “that’s not my job!” Whenever and wherever she is asked to pitch in and assist, Tamekia is there! You can find her offering stellar care to our residents, and in-between-time, assisting with securing and stocking supplies on all units. She is dependable and a true asset to Kirby Pines.

– Rhonda Nelson, Director of Nursing

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Celebrate World Music Day

June 21, 2024

The harmonious and vibrant tunes of World Music Day are once again ready to engulf us all in a euphoric celebration of musical diversity. This annual event brings together people from all walks of life to embrace the universal language of music, showcasing its power to unite and uplift spirits worldwide. In this article, we explore the essence of World Music Day 2024, its history, and ways to participate in this extraordinary global celebration.

What is World Music Day 2024?

World Music Day, also known as Fête de la Musique, is an international event that celebrates the beauty and diversity of music. It transcends boundaries, cultures, and genres, encouraging people from all corners of the world to embrace music and its profound impact on our lives. On this day, musicians and music enthusiasts alike come together to perform, share their talents, and spread joy through the universal language of melody.

When is World Music Day 2024?

World Music Day is celebrated annually on June 21st. This date was chosen to coincide with the summer solstice, a day symbolizing the perfect balance of light and darkness. It serves as a metaphor for the harmony and unity that music brings to our lives, transcending differences and fostering a sense of togetherness.

How can I get involved in World Music Day 2024?

Participating in World Music Day 2024 is both simple and exciting. Here are a few ways you can get involved:

Attend Local Concerts and Events: Look out for concerts, open-air performances, and musical events taking place in your community. World Music Day encourages artists to perform in public spaces, parks, and streets, offering free concerts to everyone. Check local listings and join in the festivities.

Organize Your Own Musical Gathering: Gather your friends, family, or fellow musicians to create your own impromptu concert or jam session. Whether it’s in a park, at your home, or in a public square, create an atmosphere where people can come together to appreciate and enjoy live music.

Discover New Sounds: Use World Music Day as an opportunity to explore diverse genres and artists from around the world. Listen to music from different cultures, experiment with unique instruments, and broaden your musical horizons.

Share Your Musical Talents: If you are a musician, take this chance to showcase your talent and share your passion for music. Organize a small performance, record a video, or collaborate with fellow artists to create something special. Share your musical creations on social media using the hashtag #WorldMusicDay2024 to connect with a global audience.

The History of World Music Day 2024:

The World Music Day originated in France in 1982. The French Minister of Culture at the time, Jack Lang, envisioned a day where music would be celebrated in all its forms. The idea quickly gained popularity, and since then, World Music Day has spread across the globe, becoming an annual event celebrated in more than 120 countries.

The essence of World Music Day lies in its simplicity and inclusivity. It encourages amateur and professional musicians, music schools, orchestras, and communities to embrace the joy of music and share it with others. It promotes the belief that music has the power to bring people together, bridge cultural divides, and create a world where harmony and understanding prevail.

World Music Day 2024 is a celebration that transcends borders, cultures, and languages, uniting people through the magical medium of music. It offers an opportunity to appreciate the diversity of musical expressions and encourages active participation from individuals of all ages and backgrounds. So, mark your calendars for June 21st and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of melodies.

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Resident Spotlight: Janie Smith

MUSICIAN EXTRAORDINAIRE

Music provides one of the joys of life. There is scientific evidence that listening to music uses all parts of the brain, thereby enhancing brain cognitive function. It is also known that playing a musical instrument increases these benefits. A recent study reported by Penn Medicine News, indicated that even beginning to play the piano between 60-85 years of age maintained the cognitive functions significantly! Residents of Kirby Pines have a unique exposure to a variety of musical performances. We are fortunate to have many residents who are talented musicians; one is Janie Smith, who performs as pianist for Vespers, Sunday morning worship services, the health areas, memorials and as primary pianist for our choral group, The Entertainers.

Lois Jane (Janie) Provence was born in a small community close to Knoxville, Tennessee. She had a sister who was 13 years old and a brother who was nine when she was born. According to Janie, “I think they would have been much happier without the interruptions of a baby sister.” As a child she remembers her greatest joy was swinging and singing and riding her bicycle. Janie attended elementary and secondary schools in Knox County. She began taking piano lessons when she was nine years old and was allowed to leave her school for the lessons. Janie’s goal was to be able to play the piano in church. She got that opportunity when she was 12 years old; the regular pianist at their church was absent one Sunday. A man who attended that church heard her play and asked her to play for his quartet. With them, Janie would travel to many revivals, homecomings, and special services at other churches. While in high school, Janie played piano for two choirs and graduation services.

Following graduation from high school, Janie enrolled and graduated from the two-year Knoxville Business School program. She began employment at Merrill-Lynch, for whom she worked for 21 years.

Young Janie

Soon after her graduation and beginning her employment at Merrill-Lynch, Janie was invited to her best friend’s church. Her friend wanted her to meet someone “she was crazy about” and wanted to date. That someone happened to be Edgar Earl Smith. Well, no surprises how this turned out! Earl’s father kept reminding him about that cute, blond girl that occasionally visited and played the piano at church. Janie had also been recruited to play for another gospel quartet and was traveling with them to other churches. Eventually, Earl asked Janie for a date. They were married a year later (1960) in the same church where they met. They would live in Knoxville where they were both employed.

Janie decided that she wanted to learn to play the organ and enrolled in lessons. In 1985, she decided to begin learning the pipe organ, a more complicated instrument. She contacted an instructor, and with her previous talent, she quickly learned. With her teacher’s encouragement, she gave a performance at the Fist Baptist Church in Knoxville in 1990. Also, Janie and Earl learned of a church, First Baptist Concord in Farragut, Tennessee, which was close to Knoxville. The church had a wonderful choir and needed someone to replace the retiring organist. Janie would play the organ for that church for many years as well as piano for two ladies choirs that sang for civic groups and different venues.

Janie and Earl lived and worked in Knoxville until 1992 when Earl was transferred to Chattanooga, Tennessee. He was the Operations Manager for American Limestone Company, a division of Asarco Corporation. The primary business was selling crushed rock for paving roads. Earl, needing a change, chose to begin employment for a similar company, Martin Marietta Materials in Indiana, and finally, a move to Maryland for similar work. Earl retired in 2003, and Janie and Earl moved back home to Knoxville. Both enjoyed the retirement life: having a large garden, Earl playing golf, and Janie continuing her music. They were also “die-hard” University of Tennessee football fans and were season tickets holders for 40 years! They attended many away games after retirement.

Earl & Janie

In 2018, Janie and Earl made the decision to move to Memphis to be close to family members. Both were beginning to experience health issues. They looked at several places and were glad to learn about the continual care options available at Kirby Pines. The decision was made to move to Kirby Pines in 2018. Earl is now a resident of Job’s Way, our memory care unit. Janie visits him daily and frequently plays the piano for the residents there.

Janie and Earl were a godsend to Kirby Pines. Not only is Janie a wonderful pianist, her positive attitude and warm personality make for pleasant associations. She gives so freely of her time to play for many of the musical venues at Kirby. She definitely has filled a void with her talent. 

Janie misses those East Tennessee mountains but enjoys living at Kirby Pines. She especially appreciates the friendly people and staff and all the amenities that are available. She enjoys yoga and is pleased to be able to share her musical talents. Thank you, Janie and Earl, for making the decision to be a part of the Kirby community!

Written by Joan Dodson, Resident of Kirby Pines.

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Assisted Devices and Technology

walking with a walker outdoors

Do you remember The Jetsons? Set in 2062, you may remember The Jetsons as a futuristic show that played with ideas about the future for laughs. People lived in houses in the sky, worked a three-day workweek, and drove aerocars that looked like flying saucers. The most impressive part of the show was the incredible conveniences that left the Jetsons with plenty of leisure time. While we may not have aerocars that fly us around, we certainly have many technologies and devices to make our lives easier!

There are numerous assistive devices, such as walkers, canes, hearing aids, and glasses. Remember, this category includes anything designed to help in performing a specific function. There are infinite options out there – it really comes down to what you need a little help and support with. The most common categories of devices include: 

hearing aid

Mobility Devices – help you move from place to place with more independence. Examples: Rollators, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, scooters, canes, prosthetics

Daily Living Devices – help you complete activities of daily living. Examples: Adapted cutlery and cups, shower seats and stools, dressing sticks

Hearing Aids – help you hear or hear more clearly

Vision Devices – helps you see more clearly. Examples: Magnifiers, eye glasses, screen readers

Woman using magnifying glass

Assistive technologies might include smart home assistants, medication reminders, and medical alert systems. These technologies can either be low-tech, such as phones with larger number buttons on them, or high-tech, like balance and fall prevention systems. In today’s world, you can simply ask AI to record your shopping list, set a reminder about taking your medication, or ask what day of the week it is. We have technology at our fingertips – much like the Jetsons did! Imagine where we will be in 2062!

What assistive devices do you use – and are they the most appropriate device(s) for you? Consider contacting the Therapy Team at Kirby Pines to learn more about what assistive technology and devices may be most beneficial for you! 

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Weight Training 101

lifting weights

Use these tips to learn how to work out with weights.

Getting started lifting weights can be tough – especially if you are coping with arthritis and are unsure of which exercises are the best and safest for your joints. How much weight should you use? How many times should you lift it? We compiled a list of weight training basics to answer your questions. 

How long and how often? Begin with 20 to 30 minute weight training sessions, two or three days each week. Within four to twelve weeks, you should see noticeable benefits, such as improved energy and muscle tone. Within six months, most people increase their strength 40 percent or more. Give your body at least one recovery day between sessions (although some people may need more, especially in the beginning). 

How much weight? Start with a pair of light dumbbell hand weights (2 to 3 pounds for women and 5 to 8 pounds for men). If you can’t do 12 repetitions (reps are the number of times you do the exercise) the weight is too heavy. If your muscles don’t feel tired after 12 reps, it’s too light. Adjustable weights that can be strapped to wrists or ankles may be convenient if you have arthritis in your hands. You can also use home or gym weight machines, or resistance bands. 

How many reps and sets? For general toning and strength, the American College of Rheumatology and American Council on Exercise recommend completing one set of eight to 12 reps, working the muscle to the point of fatigue by the last few reps of each set. 

Walking outdoors

What kind of exercises? Work all major muscle groups, starting with the larger muscles. Always include exercises for opposing muscles: for example, work the biceps and triceps of your arms, and the quadriceps and hamstrings of your thighs. Avoid above-the-shoulder exercises if you have arthritis in your upper body, and talk to your doctor before using leg press machines if you have arthritis in your knees or hips. 

How do I do it? Lift slowly and smoothly, counting four counts up and four counts down. Avoid locking (fully straightening) knees or elbows, which stresses joints. Deliberately exhale when lifting, and inhale when lowering. 

If you want to know more about weight training, see Kim Roberts. She will be happy to help and is available in the Oasis, Monday and Friday at 8:00 am and Wednesday at 9:00 am. 

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June is Chock Full of Fun at Kirby Pines

Whew! What a Mother’s Day Celebration we had here at Kirby Pines! Great Food! Spectacular Weather! The most amazing multi-generational bunch of people I have seen in one place at the same time! I must stop and thank each and every staff member for their hard work and efforts. We are so lucky to have such a dedicated staff!

June will be just as fun filled. There is so much going on to keep one “Enjoying life and being entertained!” Just like Mother’s Day, Father’s Day will be quite special. There are three (3) other activities on June’s calendar that I would like to promote.

On Saturday, June 8th, there will be a trip to Meddlesome Brewing Company to visit the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall. I’m encouraging all veterans and interested residents to come and join us in this very special tribute to our Brothers and Sisters who did not return from this tragic war that split our country and left an indelible scar on our great nation. (Please see the Activities Department for sign-ups and departure times.)

On Friday, June 28th, at 6:30 p.m. our very own Kirby Pines Kast of Karachaters (that is my name) will be putting on their very own rendition of the musical “Oklahoma.” I have been peaking in at their rehearsals. It has been amazing to me to watch the dedication as well as the fun that our cast is exhibiting every Friday when they come together for practice. It will truly be a “Can’t Miss” performance. I encourage all to attend!

My last activity to highlight is my favorite: Men’s Christian Fellowship. Calling ALL KIRBY MEN! Come join Kirby Men in sharing a great cup of coffee, a fresh pastry or donut, and some words of inspiration that can lift you up for the whole week. Join us every Saturday @ 7:45 am in the Large Card Room.

HAPPY FATHER’S DAY AND HAVE A TERRIFIC JUNE!

Michael J. Brown, Jr.
Executive Director, Kirby Pines

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This World is Not My Home

Reflections by Maxie Dunnam

Stairway into the clouds

IN my growing up years in rural Mississippi, we sang a lot in our worship. Many of our songs focused on salvation; especially judgement, and life after death. I can still remember, and often when I’m alone, I sing some of those songs. 

When We All Get to Heaven 
I’ll Meet You in the Morning 
This World is Not My Home 

There was a season in my theological journey when I snickered at some of those songs…the imagery was so literal and the emphasis on heaven, so “sentimental.” I’m grateful that portion of my journey didn’t last too long. Today, I sing joyfully. 

This world is not my home 
I’m just a-passing through 
My treasures are laid up 
Somewhere beyond the blue 
The angels beckon me 
`From heaven’s open door 
And I can’t feel at home anymore. 

Since Eden, we have never known a world without sin, suffering and death. For Christians, “new persons in Christ,” our faith is certain: this world, is not our home. It is not all there is. Jesus didn’t fumble with his words. He talked about a place “with many rooms’ to which he was going to prepare place for his friends, “that you may be where I am.” (John 14:13) 

Pilgrims is a good label for Christians. This earth, as it is, will never be our home. But think of it…a new heaven, and a new earth. Though our eternal home is not presently on earth, God’s promise is that, “in heaven,” we will share in creating a new earth. 

Why don’t you sing it with me, 

Just over in Glory-land 
We’ll live eternally 
The saints on every hand 
Are shouting victory 
Their songs of sweetest praise 
Drift back from heaven’s shore 
And I can’t feel at home 
In this world anymore. 

-Maxie Dunnam