The summer season creates the perfect opportunities for seniors to enjoy the outdoors, get involved in the community, and meet new people. Ashlee Goetsh, activities director for The Waterford at Ames Assisted Living community in Ames, Iowa, says that she sees a positive change in their residents’ moods during this time of year because they can actually get outside and enjoy the fresh air. “My favorite part about the summer is seeing how happy the … [Read more...]
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Long Distance Caregiving
If you live an hour or more away from your elderly loved one in Assisted Living care, think of yourself as a “long-distance caregiver.” According to the National Alliance for Caregiving,approximately 15 percent of the 34 million caregivers in the United States fall into this category.However, even as a long-distance caregiver, you can stay on top of your loved one’s care by keeping these helpful tips in mind. Organize Important … [Read more...]
The Importance of Healthy Eating Habits for Seniors
The food choices your loved one makes each day affects their overall health. Certain eating habits may even indicate that it’s time to consider Assisted Living. This article explores various signs of an unhealthy diet, along with the nutrition plans offered by several senior living communities.Knowing the Signs Healthy nutritional habits are essential to good health. The dietary needs of seniors change, so you should keep a vigilant eye … [Read more...]
Decorating Your Parent’s New Home
Moving into a senior living community presents a stressful lifestyle change for those who’ve lived in the same home for many years. The old home has memories and a particular comfort in which you or your loved one have grown accustomed. In contrast, a new home may feel foreign and uncomfortable, making the transition to a senior living community more difficult.However, that doesn’t have to be the case. The right décor can help transform your … [Read more...]
What to Expect When Moving to an Assisted Living Community
Moving your loved one to an Assisted Living community may seem overwhelming. There are so many tasks to finish before the big move. If your loved one resists the change, it can make the process even more difficult. The following suggestions and tips will help you understand the moving process and make the transition easier.Selecting a community – With several communities in your local area, you may have trouble selecting one. Speak with an … [Read more...]
Can Staying Healthy Help You Afford Senior Living?
We know that good health affects how we think and feel, but have you considered the fact that healthy habits can also add up to money in the bank for senior living?Sharon Roth Maguire, gerontological nurse practitioner and chief clinical quality officer for BrightStar Care, shares several ways that daily decisions for mental, physical, and cognitive health can have a positive impact on seniors’ wallets, helping them afford better senior … [Read more...]
Benefits of Learning a New Language as a Senior
Learning a new language is a challenging and time-consuming process. However, the health benefits of becoming bilingual are extremely rewarding. While myths surround the inability of older adults to learn a second language, research shows that no one is ever “too old” to take advantage of the benefits that bilingualism can bring. Myth: Older Adults Can’t Learn a Second Language The common misconception persists that learning a second language … [Read more...]
Eight Ways to Maximize Space in Assisted Living Home
After deciding that Assisted Living is right for your loved one, you must plan for the big move to the new, often smaller apartment. As you help sort through items, do so with a focus on consolidation and which items will take up too much space or prevent your loved one from moving around easily. Use these eight tips to maximize space and efficiency in an Assisted Living apartment.1. Pack appropriately sized furniture – If the community … [Read more...]
Tax Tips for Seniors & Their Families
Many senior citizens and their families are not aware of the various tax rules, benefits, and deductions that apply to them. Terrance Bond, a retired CPA with over thirty years of experience in tax preparation and advice, offers insight to those filing a tax return involving someone over the age of sixty-five. He says that it is best to begin by “determining if the senior can be claimed as a dependent or if they should file their own taxes.” He … [Read more...]
Visiting Your Loved Ones in Assisted Living Facilities
Family members are often uncertain about the protocol for visiting their loved ones at an assisted living community or skilled nursing facility. They may wonder when, how long and how often should they visit, and what they should do when there. Every situation is different, but these tips and guidelines can help make the time spent visiting a loved one as pleasant and worthwhile as possible. Visit Protocol: When and How Long Should You … [Read more...]