| Wellness |
"The concept of total wellness recognizes that our every thought, word, and behavior affects our greater health and well-being. And we, in turn, are affected not only emotionally but also physically and spiritually."- Greg Anderson, Author and Founder of the American Wellness Project
Ridgeline offers a holistic approach to wellness that encompasses physical, mental and spiritual aspects. Participation is optional, but encouraged. We will be your personal advocate along this journey. Mental acuity is challenged through fun word and number games, intellectual discussions, book clubs, and computer skills as part of our Cognitive Enhancement Program or "memory class." Ridgeline has several employees trained as Certified Geriatric Wellness instructors by Dr. Rob Winningham of Western Oregon University. End of life issues are addressed in a compassionate manner. There are religious groups and support groups available. Each new community provides a contemplative space for quiet reflection. Adoption of programs such as the Eden Alternative® create environments that include inter-generational experiences, animals and plants, as a means toward increasing inner peace. Wellness is an individual journey. Each person in a Ridgeline community is afforded choice, opportunity, and support to success along their personal path. |
Physical activity is effective for residents of all ages. Health related benefits attributed to regular exercise include: decrease in high blood pressure; decreased pain from arthritis; better diabetic control; improved bone density; and decreased falls. Interestingly, medical studies have shown that regular exercise improves your thinking ability. Our innovative program was designed to include elements of an internationally acclaimed exercise program obtained through personal communications with the Department of Geriatric Medicine in Umea, Sweden. This has been shown effective for frail individuals, even those with memory loss.