Tag Archives: Assisted Living
Helping A Senior Loved One Suffering From Mental Health Decline
Anyone can have mental health issues at any stage of life, but older persons are typically more prone to depression and other mental diseases. According to the World Health Organization, 15% of persons 60 and older have a mental illness. However, mental diseases are not always a natural part of aging. If you notice or learn from a loved one that their poor mental health significantly interferes with their daily activities, they may require help. It is especially helpful for family members and friends to assist older persons in finding mental health therapies that will enhance their quality of life. Senior care experts in our assisted living facility share ways in which you can help an elderly loved one suffering from mental health decline. Signs Of Declining Mental Health A decline in mental health may be brought on by a variety of factors, including physical sickness, loneliness, and challenging lifestyle choices. No matter the circumstance, friends and family should be able to spot the typical indicators of a mental health crisis, which include: Noticeable, long-lasting mood swings Rage, hostility, or unrest A lack of joy even when engaging in activities that a loved one usually enjoys Having trouble sleeping or sleeping excessively Changes in appetite Digestion problems, persistent pain, or recurrent headaches Dependence on drugs or alcohol Suicidal thoughts Taking part in risky activities The list of potential warning signs is endless, but the most crucial thing is to find and deal with any noticeable changes in a loved one’s […]
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The Importance Of Wound Care In Senior Care Facilities
Residents of long-term care facilities are mainly elderly, weak people who are at risk for developing pressure ulcers due to immobility, the presence of comorbid conditions, and nutritional issues. Pressure sores affected 11% of nursing home residents in 2004. Effective wound care in long-term senior care facilities is crucial to promoting wound healing given the high prevalence of chronic wounds in senior patients. The following factors make a thorough wound care program in long-term care facilities crucial: Seniors Are More Prone To Chronic Wounds As of 2015, there were about 1.3 million Americans living in long-term facilities. [2] The number of people residing in long-term care institutions is only anticipated to rise with the aging population. Age-related changes make older people more susceptible to developing chronic wounds, highlighting the importance of having an efficient wound care program in senior nursing homes and long-term care institutions. In the senior population, wound healing can take longer for a variety of reasons. Multiple comorbidities and risk factors that increase wound chronicity are more common in older people. Diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, inadequate nutrition, decreased mobility, and declining cognitive function are a few of them. Recently, the term “skin failure” has been used in relation to wound treatment. It describes the skin’s inability to carry out its typical barrier function, which makes it vulnerable to bacterial invasion. Seniors are more prone to skin failure, which can lead to the formation of pressure ulcers. Along with pressure ulcers, venous ulcers, arterial ulcers, and neuropathic ulcers […]
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Can Seniors Stop Paying Credit Cards And Debts?
A study by The Senior Citizens League found that seniors owe money on their credit cards in 43% of older homes. So can they stop paying bills? Find out how to protect your elderly parents from debt, no matter if they live alone or in an assisted living facility, and how to help them manage their credit card debt. Why Old Debts Shouldn’t Worry Seniors? As a senior, you shouldn’t worry about credit card debt. Most older people get their income from Social Security, retirement benefits, or other funds that cannot be taken away. Debt collectors cannot seize these funds. Just because it’s judgment free doesn’t mean debt collectors will automatically forgive your debts. Often, family members would take advantage of elderly people by using their credit cards to pay off their family member’s debt. It is important for older people to discuss their debts with their families before getting a cosigner or making other similar plans. After all, the senior will have to pay the bill. Ways To Manage Debt: How Can Older People Get Out Of It? Here are some ways for older people to pay down their credit card bills: Balance Transfer Credit Card: With this card, you can consolidate all of your debt into one account and make one monthly payment. Payment Of Debt: Outside assistance is often helpful. A debt broker can talk to creditors about a payment amount that everyone agrees on. The senior might then pay the bill. Loan Terms: You don’t have […]
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Living In Assisted Living Facility: Methods For Increasing Appetite In The Elderly
Assisted Living Facility, Methods for Increasing Appetite It is crucial to keep trying to get the elderly residing at assisted living facility to eat even if they don’t want to. Elderly folks can boost their appetite in several ways. In this article, we’ll examine the causes of elderly people losing their appetites, natural appetite stimulants, and ways of doing so recommended by geriatric experts. Causes Of Appetite Loss In The Elderly Gum illness Thyroid conditions Throat and mouth infections Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’ disease Cancer Issues with the salivary glands Medication adverse symptoms, like a metallic aftertaste or dry mouth Inadequate exercise Dehydration Lack of a mealtime schedule on a daily basis Taste loss brought on by aging Issues with swallowing, chewing, or independently eating Sensitivity to certain food scents that can make you feel sick General sense of being powerless over one’s life Depression and loneliness Overall negative emotions throughout mealtimes We shall discuss how to boost the appetite in the elderly in the next two sections. Foods For Older People Who Don’t Like To Eat Finding foods to satisfy an elderly person’s appetite can be a straightforward treatment for loss of appetite. Several foods are: Chicken nuggets, fish sticks, steaming or raw veggies, and meatballs are examples of finger foods. String cheese or cheese sticks Full-fat or calcium-rich yogurt Lean proteins such as lentils, beans, and peas Sliced thinly or ground meat Whole milk or milk with chocolate Chopped fruit Crackers with cheese or peanut butter Healthy smoothies or […]
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Understanding Healthcare Benefits For Veterans In Assisted Living Homes
As a veteran, you may be eligible for healthcare coverage through either the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or TRICARE, depending on how you are separated from the military. This guide provides you with complete information on VA benefits, TRICARE benefits, Medicare eligibility, and coverage. VA Benefits When You Become Medicare-Eligible It is not mandatory to enroll in Medicare at age 65 if you’re a veteran with VA benefits. However, if you choose not to sign up for Medicare, you won’t have coverage for services received in facilities outside the VA health system. Additionally, you might have to wait until the subsequent General Enrollment Period to enroll in Medicare if you decide not to do so during your Initial Enrollment Period and do not have employer-sponsored coverage. Moreover, enrolling after the deadline may result in financial penalties. If you are eligible for Medicare at the age of 65 and have VA health benefits, you can enroll in both plans at the same time. In fact, the VA strongly encourages veterans who do not have employer- sponsored insurance to enroll in Medicare Parts A and B as soon as they are eligible. If you need or want to go to a non-VA hospital or doctor, you’re covered under Medicare. Keeping your VA benefits also means you can get coverage for services and items that Medicare does not cover. However, VA benefits and Medicare are two separate systems that are not linked in any way. TRICARE When You Become Medicare-Eligible Once you […]
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Memory Screenings For Seniors: Are They Worth It?
Alzheimer’s disease is a debilitating condition that affects millions of seniors around the world. It can lead to a decline in cognitive function and memory, making it difficult for people to carry out even the simplest of tasks. In recent years, memory screenings for seniors have become increasingly popular as a tool for detecting Alzheimer’s disease in its early stages. But how effective are these screenings in identifying Alzheimer’s, and are they worth the time and effort for seniors living in assisted living communities? Read along to know. What Are Memory Screenings For Seniors? Memory screenings for seniors are short assessments designed to test an individual’s cognitive function and memory. They typically involve a series of simple questions and activities, such as recalling the names of family members or objects, completing puzzles, and counting backward from 100. The results of these screenings can provide valuable information about an individual’s cognitive function and whether they may be at risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Why Are Memory Screenings Important For Seniors In Assisted Living Communities? Seniors living in assisted living communities are often at an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. As people age, their risk of developing the condition increases, and many seniors in assisted living communities may be more vulnerable due to pre-existing health conditions or other factors. Memory screenings can provide valuable information about an individual’s cognitive function and help detect early signs of Alzheimer’s, which is important for both seniors and their families. How Effective Are Memory Screenings […]
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Benefits of Strong Friendships in Assisted Living Facility
As we age, our health and well-being become increasingly important. While there are many habits we can develop to promote healthy aging, one key aspect is developing strong relationships with our peers. This article will examine the benefits of assisted living and the ways in which senior friendships promote healthy aging. Benefits Of Assisted Living Increased social interaction: Living in an assisted living community provides seniors with numerous opportunities for social interaction and engagement. This can include participating in recreational activities, attending events and programs, and simply enjoying the company of others. These social interactions have been shown to have numerous benefits for seniors, including reducing stress and anxiety, improving mental and physical health, and reducing the risk of depression. Improved safety and security: Assisted living communities are designed to provide a safe and secure environment for seniors. This includes 24-hour monitoring and emergency response systems, as well as staff who are trained to provide assistance with activities of daily living. This peace of mind can help seniors feel more relaxed and secure, which in turn can improve their overall health and well-being. Access to health and wellness services: Many assisted living communities offer on-site health and wellness services, such as physical therapy and wellness programs. These services can help seniors maintain their physical health and mobility, which can help prevent falls and other health issues. Additionally, many assisted living communities also provide access to health care providers, making it easier for seniors to receive the medical care they need. […]
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Caregiving Basics For Family Caregivers
Statistics show that many US citizens coping with illnesses, disabilities, and chronic conditions depend on family members, neighbors, or friends to get by. Caregiving is an important part of our lives and a recent study reveals that an estimated thirty-four million people have served as unpaid caregivers in the last year. Among many other things, family caregivers should learn to manage medications, talk to healthcare providers on their behalf, help them bathe or get dressed and take care of household tasks, meal preparation, finances, and more. As a senior care facility, we share a guide to help you prepare for managing the daily activities of a senior who is unable to care for himself or herself. Professional Vs. Family Care When faced with the duty of caring for someone else, your initial thought can be, “I’ll handle it myself.” However, going the DIY route has a number of personal sacrifices and financial dangers, like missed payments if you completely leave the workforce as well as reduced pension and Social Security benefits. But, you might not be in a situation to opt for professional caregiving as it can be extremely expensive. Are You Prepared To Provide Care? Nobody will blame you if you’re not ready to be a caretaker since the majority of Americans aren’t. Many people are unpreparedly put into this duty, which leaves them feeling overwhelmed. It pays to consider your alternatives for providing care and make plans for possible scenarios. If you are thinking about working as a […]
Read More The Different Stages Of Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease that develops slowly and gradually worsens. In the opinion of senior care experts, the disease usually develops over a period of many years, impacting memory, language, problem-solving, thinking, and even the personality of the sufferer. Though not every person suffering from Alzheimer’s will experience the same disease progression rate, there is a similar path that patients follow with the progress of the disease. Senior care experts in our assisted living facility share the different stages of dementia progression. Before Diagnosis: No Dementia In the seven-stage model of dementia progression, a person is not considered to have dementia in the first three stages, as the symptoms will be usually associated with that of typical aging and will not be noticeable. Senior care experts also call this pre-clinical Alzheimer’s disease. First Stage: No Impairment In stage one, the person will not have any memory impairment or any evident dementia symptoms. In the first stage of the disease, Alzheimer’s will be undetectable and the stage is sometimes referred to as No Cognitive Decline. Second Stage: Very Mild Cognitive Decline In the second stage, the person will start to experience forgetfulness. They may forget where they left their purse or keys and the symptoms might not be noticed by the healthcare provider or family member of the person. Third Stage: Mild Cognitive Decline The person will experience increased forgetfulness and slight difficulty with concentration. The symptoms at this stage of the disease can lead to reduced work performance for […]
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Why All Elderly Adults Should Consider An Assisted Living Community
Growing old can be scary for many people. After all, it is something that is unfamiliar. In addition, old age is also covered in many stereotypes about elderly adults. However, the reality stands in stark contrast to many of these myths and stereotypes. As per the statistics, seniors are living longer, happier, and healthier lives than ever before. Many seniors wish to age in place, remaining in their beloved homes for the rest of their lives. When this becomes impossible, many elderly adults fear being locked away in an assisted living home. But, senior living communities these days are nothing like the senior living homes of bygone times. This is why many perfectly healthy seniors opt for senior living homes. Shared below are some of the reasons why every senior should consider an assisted living or other senior living community. It Can be More Affordable Many seniors do not know how expensive it is to live in their homes. From groceries to home repairs to car payments to mortgages, it can be easy for anyone to feel overwhelmed by the expenses, both routine, and emergency. For many elderly adults, senior living can be a more affordable option than aging in place. As everything is rolled into a single payment, it can be easy to plan a budget. Moreover, long-term care insurance and other such programs can also help fund all or part of the senior living expenses. You Can Have More To Do Many seniors wonder how to pass time […]
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