Time to Focus on Improving Communication
None of us can skip communication in our daily lives. Whether at work or at home, we talk with others in the hope of getting our needs met and sharing a connection. Some people are natural and open communicators while others need some help along the way. Here are some suggestions to ease the way and help everyone get along a little bit better.
- Assume Positive Intentions – when talking with family, friends or coworkers, try to avoid becoming immediately defensive. Believe the other party is working to improve the situation and striving for a positive outcome. Although it can be hard, try to be receptive to the idea someone is trying to convey even if they don’t go about it in the best way.
- Be Clear and Concise – take a moment to prepare your thoughts before speaking or responding. For clarity, limit yourself to dealing with one individual topic at a time. Also, using too many words or fancy language can distract from your intended message and the listener may stop listening.
- Use Active Listening Skills - which means you listen to understand what is being said and not in order to respond. Paraphrase back to the speaker what you thought they said to make sure you understand before you form your response. Ask open ended questions, not yes or no questions.
- Watch Nonverbal Communication – these include facial expression, gestures and tone of voice. Be aware of the message you’re sending, such as crossed arms which convey defensiveness or lack of openness. Don’t look at your watch or phone which conveys impatience or the desire to be elsewhere. Use a calm reassuring tone of voice, even when emotions are running high.
- Email and Texts are Tricky: Use Caution – as these have no tone of voice, they are easier to misconstrue. Whenever possible speak to someone in person or by phone. Written messages are one of the most important times to assume the best intentions of the other party.
Feeling understood and making successful connections is one of the best feelings in the world – good communication gets us there!
Scam Artists: Be Careful and Cautious
I think we’ve all said it, “Why don’t scam artists spend as much time and effort at a legitimate job as they do on scams?” Being a victim of a scam is not only frustrating and aggravating, it eats away at our ability to trust. Awareness is a big key in keeping scammers at bay. Don’t fall for some of the latest tricks scammers have come up with to part you from your money.
The Grandparent Scam – by using information found on-line, on social media posts or even from a previous phone call, scammers will impersonate an authority figure and report the grandchild has been in an accident or is trouble and needs a large amount of money immediately. Sometimes the scammer impersonates the grandchild themselves. They’ll request an electronic or wire transfer of funds to “save” the grandchild. In a recent version of this scam, fraudsters send ride-sharing services like Uber to pick up the cash in an envelope.
Be suspicious if:
you receive an unsolicited phone call claiming a grandchild (or loved one) is in danger.
the caller asks for money as cash, gift cards, or wire transfers.
the caller won’t let you get off the phone or threatens you if you try to verify the information.
the caller uses deception, intimidation, and coercion to force you to act quickly.
trust your gut – if something feels off, it most likely is.
Be on the lookout for more senior scam warnings in the next newsletter.
RESIDENT BIRTHDAYS
3/31 – Janet J
STAFF BIRTHDAYS
3/25 - Maria S
FEBRUARY ANNIVERSARIES
3/3 - Cayley C
3/4 - Amber S
3/9 - Amy M
3/18 - Natasha M
RESIDENT OF THE MONTH
Roberta (Bobbi) C.
EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH
Amber S.
The Long Straw Club
For the past 20 years, The Long Straw Club has been a cornerstone of our assisted living community, offering a deep and thoughtful exploration of the spiritual, emotional, and psychological dimensions of aging. Originally founded by noted gerontologist Robin Avery, the club has been guided by a diverse array of wisdom teachers - including rabbis, priests, ministers, and other spiritual leaders – who have helped members navigate the later chapters of life with insight and grace. Today, under the esteemed leadership of Lloppón Rinpoche, The Long Straw Club continues to foster meaningful discussions, personal reflection, and a sense of shared wisdom among its members. Please join us on the last Tuesday of every month.
Quotes of Note
“There are only four kinds of people in the world: Those who have been caregivers, Those who are currently caregivers, Those who will be caregivers and Those who will need caregivers.” Roslyn Carter
