You’ll never know what treasures you’ll find. From clothes to art, a new vase or a book you have been waiting to read. Either way, it’s a fun trip. Cheers to all of you who offer Senior Discounts!

The biggest score from our last trip? Probably the overstocked, brand new, hand woven wool blankets from Norway! Mrs. Taylor is also proud of her find: a gorgeous vintage necklace. Someone else (shh, it’s a surprise) found a beautiful antique dish for a gift.

Carmelo Cruz, staff member and lifelong pool player, leads the class and all residents are encouraged to participate.

Dr. Gaines, Carmelo, Mrs. Clark and Mike

Just in its first week, the Billiards Lessons have been a great success. Our thanks to volunteer and family member, Mary Weden, for taking these pictures!

Front Row Seats!

Mrs. Wilson and Volunteer Robert Ham it up! (We missed you, Robert!)

Dr. Gaines loved the acrobats, Mrs. Wilson loved the “beautiful” and “amazing” elephants and Mr. Esprit is already excited about going again next year.

January 10th is a big day here at Bay Oaks- we’re celebrating the birthdays of two residents AND two staff members. Our best birthday wishes to Morton & Edna (with Sophie the dog in the photo) and Sharon and Mike, too.

We’ll celebrate with music, birthday cakes and, brought to us by Chef Lamonte, these Bay Oaks new signature chocolate-on-chocolate acorn mini-cakes!

Every day of the year, weather permitting, residents enjoy walking the block down to Biscayne Bay and taking in the breeze, watching the birds, the sunset, the other people who may walk by.

Today, the residents who chose to go were accompanied by staff member Yadaris Cruz, who took these pictures:

On behalf of the entire Bay Oaks family of residents, staff and board members, we are proud to announce Bay Oaks’ newest hires and staff accomplishments.

Shastika Guaragain is now officially the Registered Nurse for Bay Oaks.

Mary Misurelli is our new bookkeeper.

Kathryn Moore has been promoted to Assistant Administrator after passing the Administrator’s licensing exam.

Please join us in congratulating Shastika, Mary and Kathryn.

Mrs. Bertha Fisher and a volunteer/friend, Ms. Fernanda Harcha.

Today’s poem by Bay Oaks Poetess in Residence, Mrs. Bertha Fisher.

A Sense of Humor, Saves the Day, -

When Things Don’t Always Go Your Way;

Born with a Sense of Humor, too,

A Special Asset, All Life Thro’!

 

The Miami Herald’s recent series on Assisted Living Facilities in the State of Florida was highly commendable in purpose, but confused a number of very important and distinct aspects of ALFs.

“Assisted living” is most identified in the minds of the public (and in the law in other states) as a residential alternative to nursing homes for the elderly — not a catch-all for other populations — like the mentally ill. The care needs of a frail senior are much different than an individual with mental illness — often younger and more physically healthy. Yet, in Florida, unlike the vast majority of other states, the communities that provide care for the mentally ill are also licensed as “assisted living” just as those that provide care to frail seniors. This confuses the public.

We encourage you to read the whole article here.

This year was fun as ever ~ here are some highlights:

Gloves and a Pashmina!

"Ooo!" exclaims a pleased Mrs. La Paz

Makeup in her favorite shade and new earrings

Ms. Cepek loves her throw: "So soft!"

"Butter Bean" is all dressed up to help out!

Dressed in festive Santa hats and bearing gifts of the sweet variety, the group performed songs, shared stories and befriended residents.

Fernanda & Ms. Chaucer

Kika on guitar - Singing Happy Birthday to Kate who just turned 101!

Apple cider, Christmas cookies, music and friends