At Thryve, community, education, and connection are at the heart of what we do—and the past few weeks have been filled with exciting opportunities to learn and grow together! Thank You for Joining Us at Our 2nd Annual Vendor & Expert Fair We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended Thryve’s 2nd Annual Vendor & Expert Fair on May 28th at the Crow River Senior Center. What an incredible morning of connection, learning, and community! It was wonderful to see community members, caregivers, professionals, and local partners come together to share resources, ideas, and meaningful conversations. A special thank you goes to our expert presenters for sharing their time and knowledge. We are grateful to Pam Manthei of Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid for her informative presentation, “Housing is Where the Health Is,” which highlighted the important connection between housing stability, health, and legal resources. We also want to thank Cynthia Child, TECH Services Coordinator with Senior Community Services , for leading “Is That AI?” and helping attendees better understand a fast-growing topic in an approachable and engaging way. To our local vendors and service providers—thank you for helping make the event such a success. Your dedication to supporting older adults, caregivers, and families in our community makes a lasting impact, and we are grateful for the connections and conversations shared throughout the morning. Most importantly, thank you to every attendee who joined us. Your participation made this event meaningful, and we loved seeing so many people connecting, asking questions, and learning together. Our First Senior Seminar: Fall Prevention We were also excited to host our first Senior Seminar on May 26th , focused on Fall Prevention . This important topic sparked thoughtful discussion around practical ways to reduce fall risks, stay safe at home, and maintain confidence and independence. Thank you to everyone who attended and participated in the conversation. We are thrilled to launch this seminar series and look forward to continuing to bring relevant, educational topics to our community. Join Us for Our Next Senior Seminar – June 23rd! Mark your calendars for our next Senior Seminar on June 23rd , featuring the topic: “Stop, Spot & Report Scams” Scams targeting older adults are becoming increasingly common, and staying informed is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your loved ones. Join us to learn how to recognize warning signs, avoid common scams, and know what steps to take if something feels suspicious. We encourage you to bring a friend, family member, or caregiver and join us for another opportunity to learn, connect, and stay informed. We look forward to seeing you there!
Simple ways to beat the heat while staying connected Summer brings sunshine, longer days, and more opportunities to spend time outdoors—but it also brings rising temperatures. Whether you’re heading to community events, enjoying neighborhood activities, or simply relaxing outside, staying cool is key to making the most of the season safely and comfortably. Here are a few easy ways to stay cool while enjoying your community this summer. Hydration Comes First Warm weather means your body loses more fluids, especially if you’re spending time outdoors. Carry a reusable water bottle and make hydration part of your routine. Even if you don’t feel thirsty, sipping water throughout the day can help you stay energized and avoid heat-related fatigue. Pro tip: Add fresh fruit like lemon, cucumber, or berries to your water for a refreshing summer boost. Find Shade and Cool Spaces Community parks, patios, and outdoor gatherings are great in the summer—but it’s smart to plan breaks in cooler areas. Look for shaded seating, indoor community spaces, or air-conditioned common areas when temperatures peak in the afternoon. If your community hosts events, consider stopping by during cooler morning or evening hours for a more comfortable experience. Dress for the Weather Lightweight, breathable fabrics can make a big difference on hot days. Choose light-colored clothing, comfortable footwear, and don’t forget a hat or sunglasses if you’ll be outside for extended periods. Small changes in what you wear can help you stay cooler and enjoy summer activities longer. Stay Social—Just Smart About the Heat Summer is one of the best times to connect with neighbors and participate in local events. Outdoor movie nights, fitness classes, farmers markets, or casual walks are all great ways to stay engaged. Just remember to listen to your body. Take breaks, cool down when needed, and don’t be afraid to move plans indoors if temperatures climb too high. Make Summer Enjoyable and Safe The best summer memories happen when comfort and wellness come first. Staying cool doesn’t mean staying inside—it just means planning ahead, staying hydrated, and finding balance while enjoying everything your community has to offer. At Thryve, we believe thriving starts with feeling your best—season after season. Stay cool, stay connected, and enjoy every sunny moment this summer.
Staying connected with loved ones has never been easier—even if technology feels intimidating at first. Whether it’s seeing your grandkids on video, sharing photos, or chatting with old friends, learning a few simple tech skills can help you stay close to the people who matter most. At Thryve, we believe technology should make life easier, not harder. Here are a few beginner-friendly tips to help you feel more confident and connected. 1. Start With One Device at a Time You don’t need to learn everything at once. Focus on one device—your smartphone, tablet, or computer—and get comfortable with the basics. Learn how to answer calls, send messages, and open apps before moving on to more advanced features. Small steps build confidence. 2. Try Video Calling Nothing beats seeing a familiar face. Apps like FaceTime, Zoom, or Google Meet make it easy to connect with family and friends, even from miles away. Ask a family member to help you set up your first call. After trying it once or twice, it quickly becomes second nature. 3. Use Voice Assistants for Help Did you know you can simply ask questions out loud? Devices with voice assistants can help you call someone, play music, check the weather, or set reminders. Instead of typing, try saying: “Call my daughter” or “What’s the weather today?” It’s a simple way to make technology feel less overwhelming. 4. Stay Safe Online Being connected is wonderful—but staying safe matters too. A good rule of thumb: if something feels suspicious, pause before clicking. Avoid sharing personal information through email or text, and be cautious of messages asking for money or passwords. 5. Practice Makes Progress No one becomes a tech expert overnight. It’s okay to make mistakes while learning. The more you practice, the easier it gets. Technology isn’t about keeping up—it’s about staying connected to the moments and people you love. At Thryve, we’re here to support seniors in living confidently, independently, and connected every step of the way. Need help getting started with technology? Thryve is here to help make everyday life easier and more connected. Learn more about our Live WellNest ™ Technologies through our site.
This month, we were honored to host the very first Memory Café at Central Lutheran Church — and what a meaningful morning it was. From the moment guests arrived, the room was filled with smiles, conversation, laughter, and connection. The Memory Café was created as a welcoming space for individuals living with memory loss and the people who care about them. Whether attending as a caregiver, spouse, family member, or friend, everyone was invited to simply come as they are. During our first gathering, guests enjoyed light refreshments, shared stories, participated in engaging activities, and spent time connecting with others who truly understand the journey of memory changes and caregiving. One of the most powerful parts of the morning was seeing people relax and feel understood. Caregivers had the opportunity to talk with others facing similar experiences, while loved ones living with memory loss enjoyed social interaction in a supportive and pressure-free environment. Many attendees shared how comforting it was to know they are not alone. Memory Cafés offer many important benefits, including: Reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness Encouraging social connection and meaningful conversation Providing emotional support for caregivers and families Creating opportunities for joy, laughter, and engagement Offering a safe, welcoming community for everyone involved Events like these remind us how valuable community truly is. Even a simple cup of coffee and a kind conversation can brighten someone’s day and build lasting connections. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who attended and helped make our first Memory Café such a success. The warmth and compassion in the room made it clear that this is something special — and we are just getting started. Join Us Next Month! We would love to welcome you to our next Memory Café, happening on the 2nd Tuesday of next month from 9:30–11:30 AM at Central Lutheran Church in Elk River . Next month’s gathering will feature a special guest speaker who will share a little about plants, gardening, and the benefits plants can bring to our homes and well-being. Guests will also have the opportunity to participate in a casual Q&A session and enjoy a hands-on activity planting flower pots together. We are excited to offer another fun and meaningful way to connect, learn, and create something beautiful. If you or someone you know is living with memory loss, or if you are supporting a loved one as a caregiver or care partner, we invite you to come experience this uplifting community gathering. There is no cost to attend, and everyone is welcome. Come share a cup of coffee, meet new friends, and discover a place to connect, share, and belong.
As the chill of winter fades and sunshine returns, spring offers the perfect opportunity to get moving again. For older adults, this season isn’t just about enjoying warmer weather—it’s a chance to support healthy aging, build connections, and feel your best every day. The Power of Staying Active as You Age Regular physical activity plays a key role in maintaining independence and overall well-being. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), staying active can help prevent or manage chronic conditions like heart disease, arthritis, and diabetes. It also improves balance and strength, reducing the risk of falls—one of the leading causes of injury among older adults (CDC, Physical Activity for Older Adults). Simple Ways to Get Moving This Spring You don’t need an intense workout routine to see results. Small, consistent activities can make a big difference: Take a walk around your neighborhood or a local park Spend time gardening or doing light yard work Stretch or do gentle exercises on your porch Join a group activity to stay motivated and social Stay Active by Staying Connected Being active isn’t just about movement—it’s also about connection. Social engagement is a powerful part of healthy aging, helping reduce loneliness and improve overall quality of life (National Institute on Aging, Social Isolation and Loneliness). This spring, consider joining local events that bring people together in meaningful ways. Thryve Events to Keep You Connected This May Memory Café – A Place to Connect, Share, and Belong A welcoming, relaxed gathering designed for individuals living with memory loss and those who care about them. Enjoy conversation, light refreshments, and engaging activities in a supportive environment. When: 2nd Tuesday of each month (starting May 2026), 9:30–11:30 AM Where: Central Lutheran Church, Elk River Why attend: Build connections, share experiences, and enjoy a warm, social setting 2nd Annual Vendor & Expert Fair – A Morning of Learning & Connection This free community event brings together expert speakers and local service providers to inspire, educate, and connect. Date: May 28th, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Location: Crow River Senior Center, St. Michael Highlights: Educational sessions on housing and technology Opportunities to meet local experts Fun giveaways and community resources Both events offer simple, meaningful ways to stay socially and mentally active while connecting with others in your community. Small Steps, Big Impact Healthy aging isn’t about doing everything at once—it’s about making small, positive choices each day. Whether it’s taking a short walk, attending a local event, or simply spending time with others, every step you take this spring supports your health and happiness. So step outside, soak up the sunshine, and embrace the season. With movement, connection, and community, you can continue to thryve at every stage of life.
This April, Thryve and its partners brought caregivers together for a meaningful and empowering four-week journey through the Confident Caregiver Series: Spring Sessions . Held every Tuesday, these free sessions created space for learning, connection, and support—something every caregiver deserves but doesn’t always receive. Each week focused on a different aspect of caregiving, offering practical tools and insights to help participants feel more confident and less alone in their roles. The series kicked off on April 7th with a session on Pathways to County and Community Supports for Long-Term Planning sponsored by Allina Home Care. Caregivers were introduced to the often complex world of local resources, gaining clarity on how to navigate systems and plan ahead for their loved ones’ needs. On April 14th, the focus shifted inward with Understanding Caregiver Stress sponsored by St.Croix Hospice. This session acknowledged a reality many caregivers face but rarely talk about openly. Participants explored the emotional and physical toll caregiving can take, while learning to recognize early signs of stress and burnout. The third session on April 21st, Restoring Balance: Somatic Tools to Prevent Caregiver Burnout Sponsored by Deeply Rooted Health Coaching LLC, built on that foundation by offering actionable techniques. Caregivers were introduced to body-based (somatic) practices designed to regulate stress, restore energy, and create moments of calm in demanding routines. Finally, the series wrapped up on April 28th with Navigating Resources sponsored by Minnesota Aging Pathways . This session brought everything full circle, equipping caregivers with tools and guidance to confidently access services and support systems available to them and their loved ones. The Confident Caregiver Series was more than just a set of presentations—it was a reminder that caregivers are not alone. With the right tools, knowledge, and community, caregiving can feel less overwhelming and more supported. If you missed the series, keep an eye out for future opportunities from Thryve. Because when caregivers are supported, everyone benefits.
April is Volunteer Appreciation Month—a time to recognize the people who give their time and energy to support their communities. At Thryve, we’re grateful for every opportunity to give back and connect with local organizations that make a difference. Giving Back at Crow River Senior Center On Friday, April 17th, Thryve volunteered at the Crow River Senior Center for a Volunteer Appreciation Event. The morning was dedicated to celebrating the center’s volunteers and the incredible impact they have on the senior community. We also plan on volunteering at the same event but at Monticello Senior Center. In total we will be recognizing over 150 volunteers between the two days. Our team helped support event activities, assisted with setup and coordination, and spent time connecting with volunteers and attendees. Most importantly, we were there to say thank you to the people who consistently show up for others. Why It Matters Volunteer Appreciation Month is a reminder of how essential volunteers are to strong communities. Whether it’s providing companionship, organizing programs, or simply showing up when needed, volunteers help create spaces where people feel supported and valued. Events like this give us a chance to recognize that impact firsthand and to be part of something bigger than ourselves. Looking Ahead At Thryve, we believe community involvement should be ongoing, not occasional. Our time at the Crow River Senior Center reinforced the importance of staying connected and continuing to support organizations doing meaningful work. We’re proud to have been part of this celebration and look forward to more opportunities to serve alongside our community partners. Thank you to all volunteers—your work truly makes a difference.
Memory loss can be a normal part of aging, but certain changes may signal something more serious. Recognizing early warning signs is key to getting help and protecting long-term brain health. Occasional forgetfulness, like misplacing keys or forgetting a name, is common. However, consistently forgetting recently learned information, such as important dates or repeating the same questions, may be an early sign of cognitive decline. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 6.9 million Americans aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and symptoms often begin gradually. Another sign to watch is difficulty completing familiar tasks. Struggling to manage finances, follow a recipe, or keep track of daily routines can indicate changes in thinking and problem-solving abilities. Confusion with time or place is also common, including losing track of dates or forgetting how you arrived somewhere. Language problems may also appear, such as trouble finding the right words, pausing mid-conversation, or repeating yourself. Over time, these communication challenges can lead to frustration and withdrawal from social situations. You may also notice changes in mood or personality. Increased anxiety, irritability, or isolation can accompany memory issues. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that social isolation is linked to about a 50% increased risk of dementia, making these changes especially important to recognize. Early detection matters. Some causes of memory loss are treatable, and identifying concerns early can improve quality of life and allow for better planning and support. If you or a loved one are noticing these signs, don’t ignore them. Talk to a healthcare provider and take the next step toward understanding what’s happening.
Retirement is something many people look forward to for years. It brings freedom, flexibility, and the chance to finally focus on what matters most to you. But alongside that freedom, retirement also brings a major life shift—one that can quietly affect your sense of connection and purpose. Without the built-in structure of a workplace, it’s easier than you might expect to become isolated. That’s why staying active in your community isn’t just a good idea in retirement—it’s one of the most important things you can do for your well-being. The Reality of Loneliness in Retirement Leaving the workforce often means losing daily social interaction—conversations with coworkers, shared routines, and a sense of being needed. And the data shows this shift can have real consequences: About 28% of adults aged 65+ say they feel lonely frequently or always (Gitnux) Roughly 1 in 3 older adults experience loneliness (Time Magazine) Around 43% of seniors report feeling lonely on a regular basis (Griswold Care) Nearly 1 in 4 older adults are socially isolated (National Institutes of Health) More importantly, loneliness doesn’t just affect how you feel—it impacts your health. Studies have found that chronic loneliness can: Increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and dementia Raise the risk of premature death by nearly 30% Contribute to depression, anxiety, and memory decline Some researchers even compare its health impact to smoking or obesity. Simple Ways Retirees Can Stay Connected The good news? Staying active in your community doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Here are some practical ways to get started: Volunteer your time Share your experience and skills with local organizations, schools, or nonprofits. Join a local group or club Book clubs, fitness classes, gardening groups, or hobby meetups are great places to meet people with shared interests. Attend community events Farmers markets, local festivals, and workshops offer easy, low-pressure ways to connect. Get involved in mentoring Many younger people benefit from guidance—and retirees have a lifetime of knowledge to offer. Build small routines Weekly coffee meetups, walking groups, or regular phone calls can make a big difference over time. Retirement Is a New Beginning—Not a Social Ending One of the biggest misconceptions about retirement is that it’s a time to slow down and withdraw. In reality, it can be a time to reconnect, rediscover interests, and build new relationships—on your own terms. Community gives you the opportunity to stay engaged, feel valued, and continue growing. Final Thoughts Retirement changes your schedule—but it doesn’t have to shrink your world. Staying active in your community is one of the most powerful ways to protect your health, maintain your independence, and create a fulfilling next chapter. Because retirement isn’t just about stepping away from work—it’s about stepping into a life that still feels connected, meaningful, and full. Stay Connected with Thryve If you’re looking for an easy, meaningful way to stay engaged, Thryve is here to help. Thryve makes it simple to: Discover local events and activities Connect with others who share your interests Stay involved in your community—on your schedule Whether you want to meet new people, give back, or simply stay active, Thryve helps you find opportunities that fit your lifestyle.
