Leaders in Dementia Care...We Always Knew It!

Juniper Village at Aurora is proud to announce the achievement of the Leaders in Dementia Care Certification. This certification was introduced as part of the recommendations in the Colorado State
Alzheimer's Disease Plan, created by the Colorado Alzheimer's Coordinating Council. This new training standard (as of July 1, 2012) is supported by the Colorado Department of Public Health and
Environment. The Certification requirements are that at least 75% of all associates have completed 8 hours of annual Alzheimer's training by a qualified instructor, presented in an approved manner. This is an annual certification. It is Juniper's commitment to provide quality service to residents, and to set associates up for success (with the right job, the right training, right tools, etc), this was a certificate that would be able to prove this measure of standard. You can check out the link on the Alzheimer's Association's website: CLICK HERE!

Happy 4th of July!

Juniper Village at Aurora celebrated with a Big Bang this 4th of July.  Although there were no signs of Fireworks, the many family and friends who came out had a blast!  A big crowd lined up for the delicious barbecued bratwurst, hot dogs, and pulled pork sandwiches. As we ate, we were entertained by the beautiful sounds of a bagpiper playing patriotic tunes; some even posed for a picture with our entertainer.  Everyone was ranting and raving about the BBQ, and the great turnout. We ended the event with some good ol American Pie and tons of smiles!  Happy 4th of July Everyone!

It's Okay to Speak Up!

Juniper Village at Aurora teamed up with Juniper Village at The Spearly Center to attend It's Okay to Speak Up - A World Elder Abuse Awareness Event on Friday, June 15 at the Denver City Park. Many seniors and advocates for seniors attended the event and listened to the exciting speakers and wonderful entertainers. Senator Evie Hudak
and State Representative Sue Schafer both spoke about upcoming initiatives to increase awareness and reporting of elder abuse. Elbra Wedgeworth of Denver Health; Denver District Attorney Mitch Morrissey, Penny May of Denver Human Services and Senior Source at 9 News John Allen presented as well. The Raging Grannies gave a very entertaining performance giving a new twist to old songs. They were definitely the highlight to the event! Juniper Village gave away more than 200 of our colorful "Frog Bags" to the delight of all who attended.


The purpose of the event was to educate our aging populations and their families and caregivers about how to determine if there is abuse, where to report it and skills for prevention. The event was held at the beautiful boathouse in Denver's City Park. Sunny skies and a light breeze made the day even more perfect. Lunch was complimentary as was the resource fair where attendees received information from many different vendors including Juniper Village.

You can view Juniper Village at The Spearly Center's Blog HERE.

A Very Happy Father's Day!

Juniper Village at Aurora celebrated Father's Day last Saturday with our annual Father's Day Car Hop; equipped with a classic car show, a 50's band, and an old fashioned BBQ menu to match the times.  While some made time to check out the classic cars to capture memories and pictures with the cars parked out front, others chose to cut a rug to the music of the 50's. We  danced to songs like "Mustang Sally", "La Bamba", and "Stand By Me".  We also watched others get their hips really movin' while as they participated in the hula hoop contest. Associates were dressed up in vintage waitress outfits, bowling shirts, and poodle skirts, while
serving food & malted milk shakes.  Family members and friends often paused from eating to get photos of the event. What a Rock 'n Roll time it was!!

A Perfect Memorial Day

The weather was beautiful, the food delicious, and the residents and families were happy to be at Juniper Village at Aurora's first BBQ of the season.  Many guests came out to spend time with

their loved one, while enjoying freshly grilled burgers and dogs.  While many of the families enjoyed sitting or walking the courtyard, the children who came out enjoyed playing basketball on the court.  Just after the BBQ, we were honored to have a M.A.S.H vehicle (military ambulance) visit us in honor of Memorial day. Not only was this a great opportunity for the residents to reminisce of their own time served with the military, but we also learned that the vehicle was used in the Korean and the Vietnam War as well (the bullet holes were evident of the brave and daring souls that stood for this wonderful country). Residents, Families, and Friends were all smiles as they shared this special day with us!

A Time to Blossom...

This year at Juniper Village at Aurora, we got to share our Best Friends Planting experience with the Alzheimer's Association Board of Directors. Juniper Village at Aurora was selected as the site for volunteers and donated materials to  makeover the courtyard". More than 30 people came out to help at Juniper Village on Saturday, May 12th. We planted various flowers in the outdoor flower boxes as well as worked on planting in smaller flower pots indoors since there was a chill in the air that morning. The residents were filled with smiles as they were teamed up with volunteers to help get everything planted.  While some planted, others filled pots with soil. Everyone enjoyed taking short breaks for photo opportunities, and then were right back

getting their hands dirty! This is a sure sign that Spring has arrived. We look forward to watching the flowers "Grow Strong Daily", with our daily watering activities.

Healthy Brain Lunch

The month of April's Alive in All Season's Theme is Maintaining a Healthy Brain. Our Connections program has focused on Stimulating Brain activity. Just like Heart Healthy Foods, there are Brain

Healthy Foods as well. Juniper Village at Aurora had our 2nd Annual Healthy Brain Luncheon on Thursday, April 26, where we had Guest Speaker Rick Watson talk about how to maintain a healthy brain. There are a variety of ways to continue to maintain a healthy brain as we age, including reading, puzzles, exercise, and eating healthy. Another successful event!