Grief and the Holidays: 15 Ways to Cope

With the holidays approaching, Ecumen knows that those who have lost a loved one will be facing changes and, inevitably, grief. Read this post for 15 ways to cope with grief through the holidays. Read more

Facing the Holidays with an Empty Chair: Ecumen Hospice Hosts Remembrance Service

The first holidays after the death of a loved one can be a looming and stressful time for loved ones. To help the family and friends of those who passed away in Ecumen Hospice this year cope with the upcoming holidays, Ecumen Hospice staff hosted a remembrance service on Sunday, Nov. 6, at Ecumen Seasons at Maplewood. Read more

Read the “History of Veterans Day”

Veterans Day is observed in many ways across the United States – parades, ceremonies and even with retail, service and restaurant discounts to honor Veterans. But do you know the historical significance of November 11? Do you know why Veterans Day was observed on October 25 in 1971? Read more

Flu Shot Advice for People Over 65

Flu season is upon us and medical professionals are advising the public to get their flu shot "the earlier, the better." In a recent blog post for The Huffington Post titled The Best Time to Get a Flu Shot is Now, Dr. Brian S. Koll, MD, provided additional advice for those 65 years and older: "People 65 years of age or older should get a high-dose vaccine specially designed for…

Tips for Recognizing Heat Stroke in Older Adults

Older adults (that is, people aged 65 years and older) are more prone to heat stress than younger people for several reasons: Older adults do not adjust as well as young people to sudden changes in temperature. They are more likely to have a chronic medical condition that changes normal body responses to heat. They are more likely to take prescription medicines that impair the body's…

Ecumen Century Club: Happy 106th Birthday Verna Bloom

Everybody wants to know Verna Bloom’s secret.  She’ll tell you being 106 years old “surprises” her because she has no big secrets to longevity — except maybe a positive attitude.  “Every day is a gift from God,” Verna is fond of saying.   The staff at Ecumen-managed Sunnyside Care Center in Lake Park, Minn., where Verna lives, has some…