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John Hendricks get’s a food update from Immanuel Lutheran Communities Chef Nelson.

Ask anyone who has lived in Montana for a while what their favorite season is, and we’d guess that you’ll get “fall” as the resounding answer. The cooling air, the vibrant colors and the ability to enjoy the sights without crowds of tourists are just a few reasons everyone loves the fall.

Tucked away in the northwest corner of Montana, the Flathead Valley lies between Glacier National Park and Flathead Lake. Flathead Valley is home to Kalispell, the largest city in the area, as well as Whitefish, Columbia Falls and Bigfork. Known as the gateway to Glacier National Park – a park so magnificent it’s actually called “the Crown Jewel of the Continent” – you’re sure to find plenty of things to do in the Flathead Valley throughout the year. However, the fall season is undoubtedly the most glorious time to enjoy all the region has to offer.

Montana in the Fall: Flathead Valley Events and Sights Not to Miss

Pull out your favorite flannels and sweaters and get ready to enjoy the Flathead Valley to the fullest extent this fall! Here are just a few things to do to celebrate the season:

Head to Glacier National Park. Visiting Glacier National Park is the obvious first choice for any fall enthusiast. The colors along the Going-to-the-Sun Road (open until October 16) are absolutely stunning! Ride your bike or hike along any of the trails in the one-million-acre park to view the amazing shades of autumn, bright blue skies and plenty of wildlife.

Tour the Blackfeet Trail. Blackfeet Nation is located on the east side of Glacier National Park and offers beautiful sights along the Rocky Mountain Front. Take a self-guided or a guided tour along the Blackfeet Trail, defined by historic roadside markers and learn more about the Blackfeet people and how the Great Plains existed in former days.

Explore German heritage at the Oktoberfest. One of the best events in the Flathead Valley during fall is the Great Northwest Oktoberfest, held in Whitefish at Depot Park. For just a five-dollar admission fee, you can try a variety of German beer and food, plus enjoy live entertainment and crazy contests like keg hurling and stein holding.

Try to complete the Fritz Corn Maze. The Fritz Corn Maze has been growing since 2007, which means it’s only getting bigger and bigger – and harder to complete – with each passing year. Along with navigating through the corn maze, your family will also enjoy sack races, a hillbilly scavenger hunt and pumpkin slingshot. Part of the proceeds this year will go to the victims of the wildfires in Montana, too.

Visit Sweet Pickin’s Pumpkin Patch. Grab the whole family and head to Sweet Pickin’ for a day of adventure and play. Kids will love the giant jumping pillow, carnival rides, tractor tour, and of course, the kettle corn and hand-dipped caramel apples.

Enjoy some of the best fall foliage tours. Fall colors hit their peak in early October in Montana, so make your fall foliage tour plans now! Besides Glacier National Park, you can also consider driving along Highway 2 between West Glacier and Browning, where you’ll be surrounded by wilderness and mountainous terrain. Flathead National Forest also provides plenty of opportunities for viewing more amazing fall color, like the hiking trails along Strawberry Lake.

Vibrant Senior Living in the Flathead Valley at Immanuel Lutheran Communities

Enjoy all the Flathead Valley has to offer and live life to the fullest at Immanuel Lutheran Communities, offering vibrant senior living in Kalispell. From gracious, comfortable independent living options to the assistance you need with daily activities, you’ll feel right at home with our staff that treats you like family. Contact us today to schedule a personal tour.

Drink Up! Dehydration in Seniors

With the summer sun and warm weather upon us, more and more of us tend to head outside for outdoor fun and activities. But, before you enjoy your fun in the sun, it’s important to make sure that you stay hydrated. Dehydration is extremely common, but seniors are at increased risk. In fact, chronic dehydration is involved in a number of illnesses that older adults face, such as hypertension, heart disease, and even joint pain and arthritis. In this post, we’ll explore more about dehydration, including the warning signs and tips for preventing this common condition.

Signs and Symptoms of Dehydration

Did you know the human body is made of about 60% water? Water is essential for your survival, and the body needs water to regulate your temperature, remove waste and toxins, and deliver nutrients to your cells. When you don’t drink enough water, you can experience a variety of health issues. Some of the long-term effects of dehydration include headaches, memory troubles, kidney stones, and blood clots. That’s why it’s crucial that you know the following signs of dehydration:

Hydration Tips for Seniors

Fortunately, mild dehydration has an easy fix, and overall is an easily preventable condition. Here are some tips to stay hydrated:

Drink more fluids, especially water. Some doctors suggest 40 ounces of water daily for seniors. Try aiming for five eight-ounce glasses of water each day as a health goal.

Avoid or limit caffeine and alcohol whenever possible. Both alcohol and caffeine can lead to dehydration because they cause you to lose more fluid than you take in.

Eat foods that contain water, especially fruits and vegetables. Jello, soup and yogurt are also hydrating foods.

Are your medications making you thirsty? Some medications have frequent urination and dry mouth as side effects. Speak with your physician if you suspect this may be true for you.

Drink beverages that you enjoy. While water is the best source for replenishing your fluids, try tea, fruit juice, milk or sparkling water to quench your thirst.

A Vibrant, Healthy Way of Life at Immanuel Lutheran Communities

At Immanuel Lutheran Communities, we weave senior wellness into daily living. Our chef-prepared dining menu offers nutritious meals to keep you hydrated and nourished throughout the day. We focus on all six dimensions of wellness through a variety of healthy activities for residents. You’ll find several fitness classes designed with you in mind to meet your health and fitness goals.

We offer a variety of senior living options as well, from independent living to skilled nursing and memory care, ensuring you’ll find a perfect fit here. Contact us today to learn more about our inviting and welcoming community in the Flathead Valley of Montana.

Easy Hikes for Active Seniors in Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park, located in the Rocky Mountains area of Montana, is a popular attraction for sightseers and outdoor enthusiasts. There are over 700 different trails to explore, each with their own unique views of different parts of the area. For the active senior who wishes to get back to nature, and maybe explore a bit of history, Glacier National Park is sure to have a trail to fit your sightseeing needs.

Glacier National Park Trails to Explore

Some Glacier National Park Trails can be traversed by yourself or part of a small group. Other trails are led by experienced guides who will ensure maximum enjoyment and safety during the hike.  The following list has some examples of simple trails the active senior can explore, sorted by difficulty. This is only a small suggested list, as some trails that are manageable for some seniors might be very challenging for others.

Running Eagle Falls

This is the shortest trail in the park, extending 0.6 miles on a round trip. A well-maintained path and slight elevation changes means little trouble for the active hiking senior. There are several places near the trail that you can detour to take a look at the mighty falls. Depending on when you visit, you may see anywhere between a 20-foot to 40-foot waterfall.

Trail of the Cedars

Going-to-the-Sun Road is the start and end point of this 1.0-mile looping roundtrip hike. This is a popular trail, with many opting to start eastward to witness grand cedars that can grow up to 100 feet. The midpoint of this trail offers a stunning view overlooking Avalanche Gorge. On the western side of the trail is a paved path to navigate back to the starting point.

Forest and Fire Nature Trail

This 1.1-mile hike will offer plenty of views. You can see where the forest has begun to regrow with new lodgepole pine saplings and young aspens after fires in 1967 and 2001. It’s recommended to visit in early summer, as you’ll see plenty of wildflowers in bloom and a nice thimbleberry patch at the high point of the trail. A short climb of about 100 feet leads to views of the Flathead River and the mountains near the Continental Divide.

Hiking Tips for Seniors

Many seniors choose walking as their method of exercise and hiking the trails of Glacier National Park is an excellent way to get moving and take in fantastic views of nature. Of course, before embarking on any hiking trip, it is important to be prepared. Here are some helpful tips to consider as you are planning your hike.

No matter where you choose to hike or walk, make sure someone close to you knows where you are or will be going. This is especially true in Glacier National Park, as many trails do not have cell phone service.

Dress appropriately. Make sure your shoes are sturdy enough for active walking. Wear clothes that not only offer protection against the elements but can also be removed in case of an emergency.

Go at your own pace. There is no need to rush through any hike, so take your time and enjoy the sights.

Bring supplies. Some trails are long enough that you’ll need to bring plenty of water and energizing snacks. It’s also recommended to bring something that can make a sharp loud noise, such as a whistle, in case of emergency.

Consider a hiking pole or walking stick to help with keeping balance along the trails.

Leave no trace. Glacier National Park is home to important historic and scientific artifacts. Do not take anything without permission, as items are usually there for a reason, such as marking paths or keeping stability with the local wildlife.

Active Senior Living in Kalispell, MT

At Immanuel Lutheran Communities, our residents enjoy vibrant senior living options, the opportunity to live life on your own terms. Contact us today to learn more about our thriving retirement community or to schedule your personal tour.e

Did you know that stroke is a leading cause of disability and death in the United States? While over 800,000 people in the US experience a stroke each year, the good news is that over 80% of strokes can be prevented by making healthy changes to your diet and lifestyle. Learn some tips for stroke prevention and discover the options available for recovering from a stroke.

The Best Ways to Prevent a Stroke

The best time to start making a prevention plan against stroke is right now. Consult your healthcare provider about risk factors involving stroke and start making a plan that you and your loved ones can easily follow. With the right preparation, 80% of strokes can be prevented. There are plenty of ways to incorporate stroke prevention into your daily life, such as:

  1. Manage your blood pressure. High blood pressure is the leading risk factor of stroke. Try exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet and managing your stress to keep your blood pressure normal.
  2. Stop smoking, and if you don’t smoke, don’t start. Smoking decreases the oxygen in your body, making it a controlled risk factor for stroke.
  3. Limit your alcohol intake. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, drinking can increase your blood pressure. As a general guideline, women should have no more than one drink per day, while men are advised to consume no more than two.
  4. Diabetes is a risk factor for stroke. Talk to your doctor about your blood sugar and follow any recommended tips to keep your levels under control.
  5. Stay physically active. Exercise helps maintain healthy cholesterol and blood pressure which can reduce your stroke risk.

What Stroke Recovery and Treatment Options are Available?

There are several restorative treatments available for individuals who have experienced a stroke. Because no two people experience stroke in the same manner, recovery options will vary based on the severity and location of the condition.

Physical Therapy

Motor-skill exercises help improve muscle strength and coordination. Mobility training addresses stability and balance, using mobility aids such as chairs or canes to strengthen ankles and legs. Other types of physical therapy involve increased focus on affected limbs while the unaffected limb is kept in place. Technology can be a helpful tool in physical therapy, such as using robotics to help with repetitive motions, or activity monitors to increase post-stroke activity.

Cognitive and Mental Health Therapy

Occupational therapy can help with abilities that have been lost, such as memory, problem-solving, social skills and safety awareness. Speech therapy can help with regaining the ability to speak, listen and write. While physical wellness is often top of mind during stroke recovery treatment, emotional impact is important to address as well. Emotional therapy includes stroke support groups for survivors and their families. In some cases, further counseling may be helpful in case stroke causes personality changes or other concerns.

Resort-style Rehabilitation Services at Immanuel Lutheran Communities

Immanuel Lutheran Communities offers short-term rehabilitation services at our vibrant senior living community in Kalispell, MT. You’ll find private suites with flat-screen TVs and European showers, a well-equipped fitness center and concierge service at The Retreat, our comfortable short-term rehabilitation and post-acute care center. Contact us today to discover and learn more about our restorative care offered in a compassionate setting.

A common misconception about physical fitness is that it must involve strenuous exercises and long workouts in order to reap the benefits. But the truth is that even low-impact exercises and short stretching sessions can contribute to a healthier lifestyle and improved physical well-being. Some older adults may have flexibility or mobility issues, making some sports and other activities difficult or challenging to perform.

For seniors especially, a major area of concern is the back. As we age, our lower back muscles, including our spinal vertebrae and cartilage, can become strained and overworked, leading to back pain and discomfort. Fortunately, there are some simple, low-impact exercises that seniors can perform that not only will help with improving flexibility and keeping you limber, but also embrace the message of National Physical Fitness month.

The Best Low-Impact Back Exercises for Seniors

1. Walking

The simple act of walking is a great low-impact exercise. It strengthens the muscles responsible for stability when you’re up and about. Your feet, ankles, knees, legs and hips all get a good workout during a walk, even for a short amount of time.

The next time you go for a stroll, try walking heel-to-toe to help maintain balance and reduce strain on your lower back. Start with 20 steps like this at a time, and work your way up. This simple exercise also makes your legs stronger, which makes you less likely to fall while walking.

2. Chair Exercises

Try these two exercises that can be done in the comfort of a chair. These are especially helpful if you have issues with back pain, or if you aren’t comfortable with standing for a long period of time.

3. Yoga

Practicing yoga is a great lower back exercise for seniors for several reasons. Yoga helps improve bone density, relieves tension in the body (making it great for your mental health as well), and can also reduce your risk of injury from falling or tripping by strengthening your core muscles.

Here are a few examples of yoga poses that can help with your back:

Before starting any physical program, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider to determine which exercises work best for you.

Senior Wellness at Immanuel Lutheran Communities

At Immanuel Lutheran Communities, we focus on all six dimensions of wellness through a variety of healthy activities for residents. You’ll find several fitness classes designed with you in mind. Try a strength, balance and fitness class or improve your flexibility in a yoga class. Contact us to learn more about the living options offered at our Kalispell retirement community located in the beautiful Flathead Valley.

Since 1892, Kalispell has been the focal point of northwest Montana. In fact, Kalispell is considered the largest city and commercial center in the Flathead Valley, with a population of around 23,000 people.

Kalispell provides its residents with a host of amenities to ensure a fun, relaxing and productive lifestyle. You’ll find top-quality restaurants for meals, activities and entertainment, easy access to natural parks and landmarks, and much more!

Things to do in Kalispell, Montana

People are drawn to Kalispell for a variety of reasons. The seat of Flathead County in Montana, Kalispell is an ideal town to not only enjoy city life and community, but also to experience nature’s scenic beauty in this charming mountain town. If you are looking for more reasons to choose Kalispell, here are just a few:

Food and Drink

There are a wide variety of restaurants to suit any taste. Downtown Kalispell is home to many places that offer not only home-grown food, but a taste of international cuisine. From the Brooklyn Style Deli, to Ceres Bakery, to Thai Palace, Scottibelli’s Ristorante Italiano and more, you’re sure to find a place that will satisfy your cravings.

Kalispell also offers numerous places to enjoy a drink with friends as well. Explore some of the wineries in and around the city. Restaurants such as the 406 Bar and Grill and Hops Downtown Grill also provide a welcome place to relax and share some good times with friends. For some international flavor, try Brannigan’s Irish Pub. For a trip into the past, the Moose Saloon is for you.

Sightseeing and Entertainment

Kalispell features some of the most picturesque sites for those wanting to explore. The Conrad Mansion Museum was home to Kalispell’s founding father, Charles Conrad, beginning in 1895. It features 13,000 square feet, three floors, and 26 rooms. Our residents enjoy visiting this historic landmark, and here are a few tips for planning a visit there.

For music lovers, the Glacier Symphony and Chorale performs a diverse variety of musical selections from October to July. If you have an eye for art, the Hockady Museum of Art welcomes seniors once a month with free admission on Senior Tour & Tea Day.

Outdoor Pursuits

Nature enthusiasts will be happy to learn that close to Kalispell are some natural sites to behold.

Glacier National Park is one of the most visited sites in the western United States. With a traveling distance of 33 miles between the park and Kalispell, it is a nice way to spend your day. There are over 700 miles of trail for those wanting to take in the natural sights.

Flathead Lake is the largest freshwater lake in the western part of the United States, boasting 200 square miles of water and 185 miles of shoreline. The lake offers numerous activities including fishing, boating, cruises and kayaking. A quick trip from Kalispell (about eight miles) means you won’t have to travel far to enjoy nature.

A popular destination within Flathead Lake is Wild Horse Island, the largest island within the lake. It is a wildlife refuge, housing more than 75 species of birds, especially geese, osprey, herons and eagles. You can explore the island on one of many beautiful hiking trails, taking in forests, prairie meadows and early 20th century homesteads.

Enjoy Active, Comfortable Senior Living in Kalispell

Kalispell, Montana provides all the comforts of city life with the ability to head off into nature at a moment’s notice. Here at Immanuel Lutheran Communities, you can experience all the amazing social and leisure opportunities in Kalispell, plus a variety of on-campus services and activities for an enriching and enjoyable retirement lifestyle. Contact us today to schedule a tour of our beautiful senior living community.

Every year around this time, many of us get inspired to clean, declutter and throw away stuff that we no longer need. It’s spring cleaning season, and this is a great time of year to donate your unwanted belongings to a charity or local organization. Not only is donating a great way to eliminate clutter in your home, but you also get to give back to your community and help other people. Plus, if you’re downsizing your home or just need more space, donating to charity is a worthwhile option.  The Immanuel Foundation is currently taking donations for its Annual Estate Sale on Saturday, May 18th at the Gateway Community Center, 1203 Hwy 2 W, Kalispell. Call 406.752.9243 for more information.

Things to Donate to Charities and Community Organizations

You might be surprised at the number and variety of items many organizations will take if you’re willing to give it away. If you have an item you can’t bear to toss out but no longer need, there is probably an organization out there that would make good use of it. Consider lending a helping hand and making a difference in someone’s life with your old belongings.

Clothing

A popular and much-needed category, clothing items are essential for everyone. Charities such as Goodwill and The Salvation Army are continually accepting donations of clothing for those in need. If you have professional wear that you no longer use, consider Dress for Success for women or Flathead Industries Kalispell Thrift Store for men. Both organizations support job seekers who need professional clothing for interviews. Other examples of clothes to donate include:

Small Appliances

Some organizations will gladly accept appliances you no longer use, such as blenders or microwaves. However, make sure you check the guidelines for donating certain appliances. Some appliances, such as large dishwashers or dryers, will not be accepted by some charities due to safety concerns.

Pet Supplies

Are you an animal lover? Some of your old pet items can be put to good use for other pet owners. Many animal shelters will accept objects like pet beds, towels, litter boxes and water or food bowls. Check your local animal shelter or the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) to see if they’ll accept donations like these.

Outdoor Tools

Don’t forget about decluttering your garage! Have you considered donating your old tools for outdoor maintenance? There are some charities that will accept donations of tools that can be used to spruce up yards, gardens and other outdoor essentials, especially if you have no further use for them. Consider:

Miscellaneous Stuff to Donate

Charities all around the country can use your miscellaneous items to bring much-needed joy to people. For example, some hospitals use the power of music to heal patients during recovery, so they may have use of your old CDs. Some other examples include:

Before you fill your trash with useable items, please take some time to consider whether it would be better to donate them instead. You never know who you’ll be helping to make treasures out of your trash.

Enjoy an Active, Vibrant Lifestyle With Immanuel Lutheran Communities

At Immanuel Lutheran Communities, you’ll find a variety of on-campus services and activities for an enriching, enjoyable senior living experience. We have everything you need to make sure you thrive and enjoy your carefree retirement years. To learn more about independent living with Immanuel Lutheran Communities contact us today, or view our floor plans to start planning for downsizing your home.

Looking for things to do in Kalispell, Montana? Wineries are a great springtime and warm weather activity for seniors to enjoy. Many locations offer walking tours of their facilities, which means that not only do you get some exercise, but you also get to learn more about the wine industry and how your favorite spirits are produced.

If you enjoy a glass of vino from time to time, add visiting a Kalispell winery to your agenda this spring. Especially here in Montana, wineries tend to have their own unique flare, offering delicious selections, fun wine tastings and live entertainment. Keep reading to discover three local wineries near Kalispell for you to explore!

Glacier Sun Winery

Glacier Sun Winery is a popular destination in Kalispell. Founded in 2011, Glacier Sun Winery is becoming well-known for its flavored ciders and wine choices – their Huckleberry Peach wine is a popular selection. This award-winning winery uses Montana-grown fruits to create their rotating selection of fruit wines.

In addition to wine, you can also purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at Glacier Sun Winery because it’s part of the Apple Barrel Country Market, where you can find fresh produce from across the country. Their tasting room is open Wednesday – Saturday year-round, and you can enjoy live music and entertainment on the weekends. During the summer, you can sit on their pleasant patio, taking in the gorgeous views as you sip from your glass.

Tailing Loop Winery

Located just two miles east of downtown Kalispell in the former Glacier Art Gallery, Tailing Loop Winery offers wines produced from reputable and well-established family vineyards located in the Pacific Northwest, including critically-acclaimed vineyards and cellars in the states of Washington & Oregon.

Live musical performances are a staple at Tailing Loop Winery every Friday and Saturday night. Their tasting room is open Wednesday – Sunday. When the weather is warm, additional concerts are held on their patio, or in their event center. Their wine menu features a variety of red and whites from all branches of the wine spectrum for your enjoyment.

Mission Mountain Winery

Did you know that Mission Mountain Winery is the oldest winery in the state of Montana?  Located on the West Shore of Flathead Lake, Mission Mountain Winery offers exquisite, internationally award-winning wines and produces approximately 6,500 cases of wine each year. They grow pinot noir and pinot gris grapes along the shores of the lake, as well as small amounts of Riesling, Chardonnay and Gewurztraminer grapes.

The tasting room at Mission Mountain Winery is open from May 1 – October 31 each year, seven days a week. Although reservations are not required, they are available.

Vibrant Senior Living in Kalispell, MT

At Immanuel Lutheran Communities, our residents enjoy a variety of senior living options, the right level of care, and the lifestyle they crave. From walking tours in the Flathead Valley to activities for the entire family to enjoy, there’s always things to do in Kalispell, Montana! Contact us today to learn more about our active senior living community, or to schedule your personal tour.

The days of bicycling being just an activity for children are long gone! Cycling for seniors is great exercise, and more and more older adults are putting pedal to the pavement and going for a ride. In fact, cycling among those 60 years and better is growing the fastest of all age groups, according to the US Department of Transportation.

“A bicycle is no longer a kid’s toy. It’s enjoyed by adults, and it’s great,” said Benjamin Breyer, an associate professor of urology at University of California, San Francisco, and an author of a study about bike injury trends. “It’s such a fantastic sport. It’s great exercise, it’s low-impact, and it’s been shown to have all these cardiovascular benefits and to improve your own general well-being,” he said.

But before you hit the nearest trail or bike path, let’s explore three quick cycling tips to make sure you’re good to go.

1. Wear Your Bike Safety Equipment

You may come from a time where it was unheard of to wear helmets, kneepads and elbow pads while biking. However, nowadays, those are essential to stay safe. Unfortunately, along with the increase in bike ridership among older adults comes an increase in accidents and injuries. Seniors can sometimes be more vulnerable to injury while cycling due to the natural effects of aging like decreased agility, vision changes and lowered stamina.

So, make sure your helmet fits well and is secure. Replace it immediately if you notice any cracks or worn out straps. In addition to knee and elbow pads, wear proper footwear that completely covers your toes and feet. Don’t forget brightly colored reflective clothing so drivers and other cyclists can see you on the road.

2. Choose the Best Bike for Seniors

The best bikes for older adults are all about comfort. Choosing a bike that is right for you will have a big impact on how much you enjoy your rides. There are various types of bikes available for your choosing. You may want to visit a bike shop and have a professional help you select the best one for your needs.

Here are a few Bicycle Options to Consider:

Obey the Rules of the Road

In several states, bicycles are considered “vehicles” and must abide by the same traffic laws as cars. Although laws can vary depending on your location, here are some general guidelines to follow:

  1. Ride in the same direction as traffic, never against it.
  2. Use proper hand signals to indicate which direction you intend to go.
  3. Obey all traffic lights and signals to avoid accidents.
  4. Stay on the right if your speed is slower than the flow of traffic.
  5. Use headlights and taillights during both day and night and especially when visibility is diminished.

Active Senior Living in Kalispell, MT

Nestled in the mountains and valleys of northwest Montana, Kalispell is home to numerous picturesque bike trails and paths. You can enjoy the scenic bike routes as a member of our vibrant senior living community here at Immanuel Lutheran Communities, where we offer a variety of services and amenities to make sure you thrive and enjoy your carefree retirement years. Contact us today to schedule a tour of our senior living community.