Twin Town Villa

Which Annual Immunizations Do Seniors Need to Stay Healthy?

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As we age, our immune systems gradually weaken, making us more vulnerable to infections and complications. Vaccination is one of the most reliable defenses seniors can use to protect themselves. Twin Town Villa has compiled a list of immunizations that seniors should ensure they stay up to date on.

happy senior couple who just received immunization shot

Immunizations For Seniors

Yearly Flu Vaccine

Every year, seniors should get a seasonal influenza vaccine. The flu can lead to serious health issues, including pneumonia or worsening of chronic conditions. Annual vaccination ensures you have protection against the strains predicted for that season.

COVID-19 Boosters

Staying current with COVID-19 vaccines remains important. For those 65 and older, the CDC recommends receiving at least two doses (depending on the formulation) of the current COVID-19 vaccine series.

Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis (Tdap/Td)

Seniors should receive a Tdap booster (or Td) every 10 years to maintain protection against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough). This is especially critical since the immunity from prior vaccination wanes over time.

Pneumococcal Vaccines

Older adults should receive pneumococcal vaccines to defend against pneumonia and other infections caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae. The right vaccine choice depends on your vaccination history and health status.

RSV and Additional Vaccines

For seniors, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccination is now recommended, especially for those 75 and older or those aged 50–74 at heightened risk. Other immunizations for shingles, hepatitis, and more may be recommended based on your health conditions, prior vaccination history, and your doctor’s guidance.

Prioritizing Health and Safety Every Day

At Twin Town Villa, we prioritize the health and wellness of our residents with 24-hour staffing, an emergency response system, and plenty of social and wellness activities. Schedule a tour of our assisted living community in Breckenridge, MN to see if it’s the right fit for your loved one.

How to Talk to a Parent About Assisted Living Without Conflict

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Talking to a parent about assisted living can feel overwhelming. You want to protect their independence while ensuring their safety and comfort. Twin Town Villa offers a look at how to approach the topic with empathy and preparation to turn a potentially tense discussion into a thoughtful, respectful dialogue.

woman talking to dad on couch while drinking coffeeStart with Empathy

Approaching the idea of assisted living can feel like walking into a minefield. Begin by acknowledging how hard this conversation is. Let your parent know you see their strengths, appreciate their history, and respect their feelings. When you lead with compassion, it shows that you care, not that you’re trying to take something away.

Pick the Right Moment

Find a quiet, calm time to talk when there aren’t interruptions or distractions. Avoid raising the topic during crises, arguments, or when everyone else is present. A private, peaceful setting lowers the chance of defensiveness and gives space for honest discussion.

Involve Them in the Decision

Letting your parent be part of the process is essential. Invite their thoughts: What are their priorities? What would make them feel comfortable? Maybe they want to stay near familiar friends, have garden space, or keep a pet. When they contribute to choices, they feel more in control, which lowers resistance.

Be Prepared with Information

Often, fear of the unknown drives objections. Come ready to share what assisted living really looks like: the services, the community and the social opportunities. Focus on the positives—less house maintenance, more safety, companionship. It helps if you can tour options together so they can see firsthand what to expect.

Respect Their Pace and Space

Even with all the care in the world, this conversation may need many smaller talks rather than one big one. Be patient. If your parent isn’t ready, pause and revisit later without pressure. Listen more than you speak. Their hesitations are clues to understanding what they need and how to help.


At Twin Town Villa, we believe that assisted living doesn’t mean giving up; it means redefining what support looks like with dignity, comfort, and peace of mind. If you’re ready to explore your options or would like a tour and a real conversation, please reach out to us online or give us a call at (218) 643-9542 today. We’re here to help every step of the way.

Safe and Effective Ways for Seniors to Stay Active and Mobile

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Many seniors stop exercising as they age and lose mobility, which can end up causing further health problems. Seniors who stay mobile are healthier and can reduce their risk of heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and other health concerns. Here are a few safe activities for seniors that will help them stay mobile and active to improve their quality of life and overall health.

Seniors exercising to stay active

Low-Impact Aerobic or Cardio Activities

Low-impact exercises are exercises that don’t put a lot of stress on the spine, joints, and muscles. For seniors, who may have pre-existing health problems or reduced muscle mass, these exercises are the least likely to cause injury or discomfort. The best low-impact aerobic and cardio activities for seniors are water aerobics or swimming, gentle walking, stretching, and yoga.

Strength Training and Balance Exercises

Strength training and balance exercises can help seniors strengthen their core muscles. These muscles support their spine, so strengthening them reduces the risk of a fall or accident. Encourage your loved one to take part in senior-friendly stretching, weightlifting, yoga, and other strength training and balance exercises.

Golfing and Walking

Both golfing and walking are low-risk physical activities that can have huge benefits for seniors. Spending time outdoors can be good for mental health. Walking and playing golf can stretch the muscles, improve heart rate and respiration, and enhance balance and mobility.

Group Fitness or Dance Classes

For seniors who need a little extra encouragement, group classes can be beneficial. Encourage your loved one to take part in a group fitness class like Zumba, water aerobics, or yoga. They may also enjoy dance classes. Dancing is a good way to maintain flexibility and core strength while improving balance and coordination.

Stay Active at Twin Town Villa

At Twin Town Villa, we offer senior-friendly group activities for seniors, fitness classes, and health services at our assisted living facility in Breckenridge, MN. With programs like the “Matter of Balance” exercises held Monday through Friday, our residents have daily opportunities to improve mobility and confidence.

To learn more, contact us to schedule a tour of the community or call us at (218) 643-9542 with questions.

4 Heat Safety Tips for Seniors

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Hot summer days have arrived in Breckenridge, MN, with temperatures already climbing above 90 degrees. For seniors, extreme heat isn’t just uncomfortable; it can be dangerous. Practicing heat safety is essential to protect your aging loved ones from heat-related illnesses. Here are some simple, effective tips to help them stay safe and healthy this summer.

senior women walking with younger women in the summer

1. Schedule Outdoor Activities Early in the Day

During the morning hours, the sun will be less intense, and temperatures will be lower. This makes the morning an ideal time for outdoor activities like walks and gardening. In the afternoon, when temperatures peak, it’s best to stay indoors and keep strenuous activity to a minimum.  

2. Know the Signs of Heat Related Illnesses

Because heat related illnesses can affect seniors more rapidly and severely, it’s important to know the signs to watch for. Even if you feel comfortable, your elderly loved ones may be struggling with the summer heat. Watch for signs like confusion, dizziness, loss of balance, slow or weak pulse, nausea, and extreme thirst. If you notice any of these signs, get your loved one to a cool, shaded or indoor area and make sure they drink plenty of water. Severe heat illness may require emergency care. 

3. Promote Hydration

Seniors may not experience normal thirst signals, or they may experience dehydration more rapidly due to side effects from certain medications. Therefore, they may need reminders to stay hydrated. Water is great for hydration, but other liquids like juice, decaffeinated tea, and sports drinks can be beneficial as well. Different foods like fruit and fresh vegetables can also promote hydration. 

4. Dress for the Weather

Ensure that your loved one has a summer wardrobe that will help them stay cool. Natural, lightly colored fabrics and loose fitting clothing are ideal for staying cool. 

Prioritizing Health and Safety Every Day

At Twin Town Villa, we prioritize the health and wellness of our residents with 24-hour staffing, an emergency response system, and plenty of social and wellness activities. Schedule a tour of our assisted living community in Breckenridge, MN to see if it’s the right fit for your loved one.

Signs That Your Loved One Is Struggling Living at Home

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As our loved ones age, it’s natural to want to respect their independence. However, it’s just as important to recognize when they may be struggling living at home, especially if they live alone. Twin Town Villa wants to help you spot these signs early to help you take action before a crisis arises.

Senior woman struggling to open jar at home

You Notice Changes in Personal Hygiene or Appearance

One of the first indicators that something may be wrong is a noticeable decline in personal care. If your loved one appears disheveled, wears the same clothes repeatedly, or has body odor, it may suggest they’re having trouble bathing, doing laundry, or remembering their routines.

Their Home is Becoming Messier

An unusually cluttered or dirty home can be a red flag. Dishes piling up, unopened mail, spoiled food in the refrigerator, or neglected pets may indicate physical limitations, memory issues, or depression.

They Have Unexplained Weight Loss or Poor Nutrition

If you notice your loved one is losing weight, it could be a sign they’re skipping meals, forgetting to eat, or struggling to cook. Look for an empty fridge, expired items, or frequent takeout containers.

They Seem to Be Getting More Forgetful

Missing appointments, repeating the same stories, or getting lost in familiar places can be signs of cognitive decline. While occasional forgetfulness is normal, frequent memory lapses may need medical attention.

They Are Suffering from Mobility Issues or Frequent Falls

Difficulty walking, unsteadiness, or unexplained bruises may mean your loved one is having trouble getting around safely. Falls are a leading cause of injury in older adults and should be addressed immediately.

They Are Displaying Mood or Behavior Changes

Withdrawing from activities, irritability, sadness, or increased anxiety can signal depression, loneliness, or other mental health struggles. These emotional changes are just as important to address as physical ones.

They Aren’t Taking All of Their Medications

Check if your loved one is taking their medications correctly. Missed doses or confusion about prescriptions can lead to serious health issues.

Open Apartments Available. Find the Right Fit Today!

If you’re noticing any of these signs that your loved one may be struggling living at home, it may be time to explore assisted living. At Twin Town Villa, your loved one can enjoy the privacy of their own apartment, with the support they need to stay safe and independent. Now is a great time to take the next step. Availability is limited, and apartments are filling quickly. Call us at (218) 643-9542 or contact us online to learn more.