Category: News

For Jackson Creek Senior Living in Monument, Colo., the past five years have been a journey of growth, resilience, and commitment to providing the best senior living experience for residents. As we celebrate our five-year anniversary, it’s a perfect time to reflect on our history, the values that have remained unchanged, the challenges we’ve overcome, and our vision for the future.

Building a Foundation

Over the years, the mission and core values of Jackson Creek haven’t changed. The most significant? Integrity.

“We’re not here just to fill rooms; we’re here to ensure every resident feels confident and informed about their decision to join our community,” shares Laura Hale, Director of Sales and Marketing.

Adapting to the Challenges of COVID-19

While the world outside was filled with uncertainty, Jackson Creek remained a safe and supportive community during the challenging pandemic era, which fell during the community’s first five years. The community responded by creating its very own TV channel during a lockdown—talented residents, from painters to performers, recorded content broadcast in each resident’s room. For special events, like the Air Force celebration, their recognition reached every corner of the community with a special appearance of trumpets and decorated cupcakes delivered a la carte. 

Recognizing the needs of all of its community’s residents during the pandemic, Jackson Creek’s culinary team went above and beyond to deliver three nutritious meals to every resident, so grocery shopping wasn’t an issue. All of this was done without raising rental rates, reflecting the commitment to standing with residents and families during challenging times.

Representing the Heart of Monument

Laura went on to share how the common phrase within the community is to “be the heart of Monument.” By actively participating in local events like the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, Kiwanis’ Empty Bowl Dinner, and volunteering at Tri-Lakes women’s events, they’ve given back and have integrated themselves into Monument’s close-knit community. The community, now that the pandemic has waned, hosts a number of educational and entertaining presentations that are often free and open to the public. Jackson Creek opened with a vision of being a resource for families and seniors, and that vision is fulfilled with its effort to provide these monthly events.

A Welcoming Environment

At Jackson Creek, relationships are built around the dining room table. It’s where residents, team members, and visitors come together to share stories and laughter. And more than just food, this time together fulfills socialization opportunities that help residents stay engaged and healthy.

“We are so proud of the strong roots we’ve established in the community. Our directors and team members work together to create an environment where everyone supports one another,” emphasized Laura. She shared how she feels truly blessed with their dedicated team members who all share a deep desire to work together for the benefit of the residents.

A Vision for the Future

As a WellAge Senior Living-managed community, Vice President of Operations Elizabeth Girling has played a key role in shaping the culture and values of Jackson Creek. Staff have recognized her commitment to excellence and building a team that is genuinely passionate about seniors. The goal is to connect with every person who walks through the doors and to get to know their individual stories.

The leadership team envisions Jackson Creek as the hub for senior living in Monument. With the housing market set to grow exponentially, the community plans to stay focused on supporting residents and continue to provide exceptional services so they can meet the growing demand for senior living in the Tri-Lakes region.

Amenities that Stand Out

Amenities at Jackson Creek include three dining venues ranging from a bistro café to a table service restaurant; housekeeping and laundry services; wellness programs and social activities; care staff scheduled 24/7; medication management; scheduled transportation; exercise and therapy spaces; a full-service salon; onsite medical and professional clinics; a theater/chapel space for community presentations and gatherings; a library, meditation space, and game room; an onsite general store; dog-washing station; outdoor walking paths, putting green, community garden and more.

Jackson Creek is also equipped with the latest technologies like LifeLoop, Hearing Loop, JCTV and It’s Never 2 Late, which help keep residents connected, engaged, and secure.

Just east of I-25 and a short drive from historic downtown Monument, Jackson Creek is conveniently located near restaurants, major grocery stores, pharmacies, banks, medical services and retail shopping. The community sits across from the Tri-Lakes YMCA and is near some of the area’s top attractions, including Garden of the Gods, Manitou Springs, the Air Force Academy, Pikes Peak, Cheyenne Mountain State Park, and the Palmer Lake Recreation Area.

Grounded in Strong Roots

Designed to meet the growing need for senior housing and health care in northern El Paso County, Jackson Creek owners Rob Oldach and John Raycraft and the WellAge Senior Living leadership team shared a vision for senior living in Monument that would be unique to the local community and not a template reproduced in other markets. Their shared vision has since become a reality.

The past five years have been a testament to Jackson Creek’s unwavering commitment to its residents. The dedication to integrity, adaptability during challenging times, and active involvement in the local community make Jackson Creek a unique and welcoming place for seniors to call home.

As Jackson Creek celebrates its five-year anniversary, it looks to the future with much anticipation. The opportunity to continue being the hub for senior living in Monument looks promising—for the next five years and beyond!

Jackson Creek remains one of the newest and most innovative communities offering independent living, assisted living, memory support, respite care, and a day retreat program for seniors 62+. If you’d like to learn more about the community, please contact us at 719-259-1331 or schedule a visit online.

For many people, the holiday season is a joyful time when loved ones gather to celebrate together. It can be a time of sharing, reconnecting, and often larger groups—and sometimes commotion. However, for families affected by dementia, this time of year can be particularly challenging. It’s essential to adapt your holiday celebrations so they’re enjoyable and comfortable for all. Below, we offer you a few tips to create a festive and inclusive atmosphere for everyone during the holidays.

Create a Festive yet Calm Space

Decorating your home for the holidays is a cherished tradition for most, but for those living with dementia, decorations can be overwhelming and sometimes confusing. Here are a few ideas for creating a calm and comfortable environment.

• Get Your Loved One Involved: Include your family member with dementia in the decorating process as it might bring back fond memories. Keep decorations simple and avoid overwhelming displays.
• Safety First: Be mindful of potential safety hazards. Avoid burning candles and fragile decorations that can easily be reached. 
• Soothing Sounds: Play familiar holiday music at a relaxing volume to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Ask your loved ones which songs they enjoy most. 

Adapt Your Holiday Activities

To ensure an enjoyable holiday season, consider adapting your usual holiday activities to meet your loved one’s needs.

• Prepare Together: Engage in activities like decorating cookies, opening holiday cards, or creating simple decorations. Focus on the process and be mindful of every moment. 
• Small Gatherings: Host intimate gatherings to maintain a quiet and relaxed atmosphere.
• Timing Matters: Plan holiday events at the best time of day for your loved one as keeping their daily routines intact is very helpful. 
• Quiet Spaces: If hosting guests, provide a quiet area for your loved one to retreat to when needed. Consider one-on-one visits instead of larger groups.
• Meaningful Activities: Engage in meaningful activities like reading a favorite holiday story, reminiscing over photo albums, or watching their favorite holiday movies.
• Short Outings: Keep outings brief, whether attending a gathering or going shopping. Plan for rest breaks if necessary.

Adjusting Travel Plans

If traveling to visit loved ones during the holidays, you can still do so with some preparation and realistic expectations.

• Maintain Routine: Keep your loved one’s daily routine in mind when making travel plans.
• Direct Routes: Plan for the most direct travel route, minimizing layovers if possible, and keeping travel to four hours or less.
• Identification: Ensure your loved one wears an identification bracelet with contact information in case of separation.
• Time Buffer: Allow extra time during your travels to accommodate unexpected situations and minimize stress.

Closing Thoughts

The holiday season can be a joyous time for everyone, including your family member with dementia, especially if you plan ahead. Simplify your celebrations and set boundaries to minimize stress so you can create a pleasant holiday experience for all. 

Jackson Creek’s Memory Support Program

At Jackson Creek Senior Living, we understand the unique challenges that dementia can present, especially during the holiday season. Our Creekside Day Retreat and Memory Support Program are designed to provide specialized care and support to residents with memory impairments. With a team of dedicated professionals, we create a safe and nurturing environment that fosters well-being and encourages engagement. Our goal is for families and residents to enjoy the holiday season with peace of mind.

If you have questions or need assistance in providing the best possible holiday experience for your loved one, feel free to reach out to the team at Jackson Creek Senior Living at 719-259-1331. We’re here to help you make this season memorable and full of love and understanding.

Demand for online shopping and door-to-door delivery services has increased in recent years. This transformation in how many older adults shop prompted Jackson Creek Senior Living to open an onsite General Store offering residents quick and convenient access to everyday essentials. It has also created opportunities for residents to get involved at the community level and fill an important role.

Located in the main lobby near the concierge desk, the General Store is staffed by resident volunteers Monday through Friday from 10:30 a.m. to noon. The store carries a variety of snacks, drinks, and household essentials like anti-bacterial wipes, toilet paper, laundry detergent, dish soap, and batteries.

“The General Store is really nice to get things right here and not have to leave the community to go shopping if you only need one or two items,” said Ellen, a Jackson Creek resident.

The community is also partnering with local artists and offering greeting cards and other unique items in the store that make great gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays. The idea to sell locally curated items came after a member of the leadership team struck up a conversation with Noelle Clapp at a local maker’s market. Clapp is a talented young artist from Peyton, CO, and her designs are featured on mugs, note cards, and stickers available for purchase at the General Store. Team members plan to connect with other local artists and periodically change the offerings to suit a variety of tastes.

The General Store isn’t the only thing creating a buzz these days. To quench their thirst after a busy shopping day, residents can stop by the new Bubbly Bash in the Bistro three days a week from 2-3 p.m. and enjoy a specialty drink prepared by the concierge team. Monday’s menu features frosty root beer floats, Wednesday is smoothie day, and Friday’s Happy Hour serves alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to jumpstart the weekend. Once the weather cools down, fall-themed drinks like warm apple cider and hot cocoa will be available.

The new General Store and Bubbly Bash drink stand are a welcome convenience and provide opportunities for residents to engage in community life and socialize. Resident volunteers in the General Store help provide an important service to others in the community and get to know their neighbors personally. The Bubbly Bash events naturally draw residents out of their apartments to gather and socialize with peers without having to venture far from home.

At Jackson Creek, residents are encouraged to participate in all aspects of daily life. Supporting resident-run clubs and organizations fosters community engagement, and residents become more than neighbors and form new friendships through shared interests. Listening to what the residents want, like the modern-day convenience of the General Store, and collaborating with them to provide it is one of the many reasons Jackson Creek is a fabulous place to retire.

Ready to start shopping for your dream retirement? Call Jackson Creek Senior Living at 719-259-1331 or schedule a tour online. You can also keep current on special promotions and events by signing up for our monthly newsletter and following us on Facebook.

Gardening offers several health benefits, especially for older adults. The University of Colorado Boulder recently published an article about the benefits of community gardening concluding that “community gardening could play an important role in preventing cancer, chronic diseases, and mental health disorders.” Researchers observed that those who participated in community gardening were more likely to eat the healthy foods they helped grow and it encouraged people to get outdoors and connect with others providing a boost to their mental health.

Here are the top five health benefits of gardening for older adults.

1. Increased physical activity

The tasks involved in planting and nurturing plants like digging, raking, and weeding improve mobility by loosening up joints, increasing muscle mass, and helping build core strength for better balance and less risk of falls.

2. Better mental health

Older adults who garden report feeling less stress and anxiety, and increased self-esteem as they watch the progress of their garden.

3. Decreased risk of dementia

Being outdoors helps with relaxation while the act of planting and tending a garden helps with focus. Both are linked to a decreased risk of developing symptoms of Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, or other dementias according to a Washington Post article based on numerous studies from the last decade around the globe.

4. Better nutrition

Older adults who grow fruits and vegetables are more likely to consume them as well, increasing their intake of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. This also helps reduce their risk of developing cancer, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses.

5. Increase social engagement

A community garden can bring older adults together to collaborate on what to grow and share their gardening experience and knowledge to benefit themselves and others in the form of a more beautiful outdoor environment and healthy fresh produce for everyone to enjoy.

Something as simple as a patio planter with a few herbs or flowers to tend to can improve an older adult’s physical and mental health. Jackson Creek Senior Living offers community gardens with raised beds and planters so that residents interested in growing flowers or vegetables can do so, regardless of mobility issues. We love seeing residents socializing with each other and working together to nurture plants that grow into beautiful blooms or produce tasty tomatoes, peppers, or strawberries. The socialization, camaraderie, and satisfaction of seeing the literal fruits (or vegetables!) of their labor make our community gardens an important part of our efforts to enhance the quality of life for our residents.

Call 719-259-1331 to schedule a tour and learn how you can plant roots at Jackson Creek. We’re always looking for more green thumbs to help our senior living community flourish.

A handful of residents at Jackson Creek have pets, and in addition to brightening up the community with their personalities, we now learn there are physical, social and mental benefits to having pets. In fact, studies indicate folks with pets enjoy better mental and physical health, especially later in life, as older adults with animal companionship tend to be more active, more social and have a lower risk of depression. These same studies have found great health benefits too, like lower blood pressure, less anxiety and chemical body changes that lead to increased happiness!

For seniors with dogs, the daily walks, belly rubs and ball-tossing all add up to increased activity. Cats too need attention and cause us to move more often, from head rubs to scratches, even keeping the litter box tidy. In return for these small favors, pets shower their owners with unconditional love and affection while providing constant companionship.

At any stage of life, purpose is essential. And for older adults, caring for a pet can be very satisfying and fulfilling. Pets also need a regular schedule, and many older adults enjoy the structure that brings to their days. Since pets naturally attract people, they often serve as a social bridge between their owners and others in the community where they live. The pets at Jackson Creek are often a magnet for affection and social engagement between residents and team members as well as fellow residents.

Studies have found that when seniors with pets get out in the community, they feel a stronger sense of community. Our resident pet owners have lots of lovely outdoor spaces to spend time with their canine companions and interact with other dog owners while getting fresh air and sunshine along with a healthy dose of physical activity.

Pet owners living at Jackson Creek will find Monument to be very pet friendly. Several restaurants have patios where dogs are welcome to join their owners for a meal. There are plenty of veterinarian services, pet groomers, and independently owned and operated Wag N’ Wash has all the pet essentials like food, crates and toys.

Even non-pet owners benefit from living in a pet-friendly community. While a pet may not be part of everyone’s lifestyle just being around them occasionally can boost your mood by lowering stress hormone levels and blood pressure. They are also a source of humor and encourage those around them to live in the moment.

At Jackson Creek, we support our resident pet owners and welcome the “pawsitive” energy their furry companions bring to the community keeping us all a little healthier and happier.

If you’re considering a move to 62+ living, please give us a call at 719-259-1331 or schedule an in-person or virtual tour to learn how you can make our pet-friendly community your new home.

Throughout his culinary career, award-winning chef Michael Longo has chased opportunities rather than riches. Classically trained, he got his start in the hotel industry and spent seven years in the European apprentice program at The Broadmoor resort. He studied under the tutelage of internationally known chefs like Jacques Pépin and the author of the famous cookbook, “Death by Chocolate,” Chef Marcel Desaulniers.

It was Desaulniers who inspired Chef Michael to write his first cookbook, “Let’s Take A Leek: A Book About A Chef, Fabulous Soups, and a Slightly Different Sense of Humor!” He co-wrote a second book with his mother, “St. Joseph’s Table: Celebrating a Sicilian Tradition,” and is currently working on an outdoor cookbook featuring recipes for wild game and fish.

With his training and expertise, Chef Michael could work anywhere in the world, but his passion for serving the senior population led him to Jackson Creek Senior Living. As Culinary Director, Chef Michael oversees the dining program for a diverse group of older adults—from the Greatest Generation to baby boomers—who enjoy standard comfort foods like meat and potatoes, but also have a desire for non-traditional fare with a variety of sauces, spices, and cooking methods.

An important factor in convincing someone to move into a senior living community today is the quality of the onsite dining. As a result, many communities now offer an authentic restaurant-style dining experience that prioritizes residents’ health and offers an individualized approach to when and where they eat.

Jackson Creek residents enjoy an upscale dining experience in a casual atmosphere boasting two dining rooms and a grab-and-go bistro. The culinary team serves up crowd favorites, themed meals, and chef-inspired specials. For fun, the community hosts regular happy hours and social gatherings featuring festive beverages and treats, along with frequent food-focused activities like chef’s demos, brunch stations, and fix-your-own treats.

Chef Michael incorporates traditional meals, but he also likes to surprise residents with new twists on familiar favorites and offer them a menu with a lot of variety. He meets with the residents monthly to hear their ideas and stays knowledgeable about what types of dishes are trending and what’s popular with residents to ensure the menu stays fresh. He has nothing but praise for the culinary team, who rise to the challenge of creating healthy and delicious meals that accommodate those who have gluten-free, low-sodium, or low-carbohydrate dietary needs but with a lot of different options to choose from.

When it comes to preparing meals for residents living with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other memory loss, culinary teams need to understand the power of food to evoke good memories and help diners connect to their past while enjoying the present. No matter where they are on their cognitive journey, Chef Michael says the quality of the food matters, especially the presentation.

“No matter what a resident’s state of mind is, we always strive for understated elegance, because first, we eat with our eyes. Everything has to be high-quality, clean, and delicious because they are worth it!” he said.

Whether you prefer classic dishes or have a more adventurous palate, there is always something delicious cooking at Jackson Creek Senior Living. Call 719-259-1331 or visit our website to schedule a tour and discover our recipe for a happy retirement.

When families are navigating life with dementia, Alzheimer’s and other memory loss conditions at home, it can be a challenge. It’s important for caregivers to get the proper resources and education so that everyone is supported in this difficult journey.

At Jackson Creek, our goal is to always be a resource for families and members of the local community as they explore their options in supporting a loved one living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. That’s why we provide programming opportunities and offer a myriad of support groups to help those searching for the best memory support program. Through monthly “lunch & learns” with industry experts, sponsored talks with the Alzheimer’s Association, and caregiver support groups, our retirement community strives to provide memory support resources to families and residents.

Creekside Family Nights

Creekside is our senior living community’s secure memory support neighborhood where we provide compassionate, person-centered care in a safe, homelike setting. Recently, we began hosting monthly family nights at Creekside. These gatherings provide a safe and welcoming place where residents’ families can meet face-to-face with our Executive Director and Memory Support Director to ask questions, discuss any concerns they may have, and talk about best practices and ways to support one another.

Caregiver Support Group

Recently, our team recognized that there is a gap in resources for families and spouses of a loved one living with progressive dementia. To better support these individuals, plans are underway to create a monthly Caregiver Support Group for family members impacted by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. A member of our Life Enrichment team recently became a Certified Dementia Support Group Facilitator through the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners and has a degree in Health Care Science with an emphasis in Gerontology and Senior Fitness. She is collaborating with our Life Enrichment department to develop a high-quality curriculum for this future support group.

Resident Memory Support Group

When a resident expressed that those who reside in our community’s independent and assisted living residences might also benefit from sharing their experiences with mild memory loss, we listened. Many thanks to our Life Enrichment Director for helping to organize this unique group open only to IL/AL residents. The idea is to give residents a safe place to talk about their current struggles, support each other, share ideas on how to better manage daily living, and discuss ways their family members can support their mild cognitive impairment.

Events & Sponsorship Opportunities

To further support those with a loved one experiencing memory loss, Jackson Creek hosts educational presentations led by dementia care experts from various organizations. This spring, we’ve partnered with Sheryl Scheuer from Gentle Shepherd Dementia Training and Consulting, as well as the Alzheimer’s Association to offer a series of Education Nights covering topics about understanding Alzheimer’s and dementia, how to respond to dementia-related behaviors, and effective ways of communicating with a loved one experiencing memory loss. These events are always free and open to the public.

And in September, we will once again assemble a team of walkers to participate in Colorado Springs’ annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s, which helps raise funds to support research efforts and discover methods of treatment and prevention for Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Jackson Creek is a long-time sponsor of this event.

Jackson Creek Senior Living offers memory support, assisted living and independent living, and respite care services. Call 719-259-1331 or visit jacksoncreekseniorliving.com if you have questions about our memory support program or would like to attend one of our upcoming events.