5 Tips to Help a Senior Who Has Memory Loss Remain Independent

5 Tips to Help a Senior Who Has Memory Loss Remain Independent

If you have a loved one with memory loss, it can be challenging to know when to help and when to step back. Though your intentions are probably in the right place, you and your loved one may disagree about your role in their life. Here are a few tips to help a senior with memory loss remain independent.

Helping a Senior with Memory Loss Remain Independent

  1. Try not to make assumptions.

When caring for a loved one with memory loss, it’s important not to make assumptions about their abilities. Everyone experiences memory loss differently. Some may need help with day-to-day activities, while others may only struggle with tasks that require organization, such as finances.

The rate that their symptoms progress also varies. Your loved one may not need assistance for years, or they may require help sooner. Unless they are putting their safety in immediate danger, assess their abilities before offering your support. More often than not, it’s best to let them ask you for help.

  1. Play up their strengths.

One simple way you can help your loved one remain independent is by adapting everyday tasks to accommodate their abilities. For example, if your loved one struggles to use utensils, you can prepare finger foods. Or perhaps your loved one has difficulty with buttons. Help them pick out a sweater without buttons so they can get dressed on their own.

  1. Stick to a schedule.

It’s common for people with memory loss to rely on routine to complete their daily responsibilities. Doing activities in the same sequence helps them remember what they need to do. Knowing what to expect can give them a sense of security. Too many changes from day to day can be confusing. Although adjustments in routine are inevitable, it’s helpful to try and stick to a schedule as much as possible. Make sure their routine includes consistent times for waking up, having meals, enjoying social activities, and going to bed.

  1. Offer emotional support.

Many caregivers focus on keeping their loved ones safe from physical harm, but emotional support is also important. Your loved one is going through a difficult time. You can help them cope with memory loss by listening and being empathetic to their struggles. Do your best to keep the lines of communication open and encourage them to share their feelings.

  1. Support a healthy lifestyle.

A healthy lifestyle is essential for independence, regardless of whether a person has memory loss. Encourage your loved one to stay active and eat a healthy diet. Here are a few additional suggestions for healthy living:

  • Manage stress with healthy techniques like meditation or yoga.
  • Take medications and report unfavorable side effects to a doctor.
  • Stay on track with medical appointments.

Maintaining a Loved One’s Independence

Keeping loved ones safe while preserving their independence isn’t always easy. There is a fine line between being helpful and taking over too many responsibilities. By understanding your loved one’s disease and supporting them through their challenges, you can help them stay independent for as long as possible.

Specialized Dementia Care at Heritage Senior Communities

If you are concerned about your ability to help your loved one with memory loss remain independent, you may want to explore local memory care programs. Heritage Senior Communities offers specialized dementia care across Michigan. Our communities are designed to create a safe, controlled environment so seniors with memory challenges can live independently.

Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a private tour!

Why the Holidays Are a Good Time to Tour Assisted Living Communities?

Why the Holidays Are a Good Time to Tour Assisted Living Communities?

Dear Donna,

My siblings are visiting from out of town for the holidays. Our parents have both been struggling with health issues, and I think they would benefit from an environment that is a little more supportive.

I want my siblings to help me explore assisted living communities for our parents, but I am unsure about the timing. Are the holidays a good time to tour senior living communities?

Sincerely,

Leanne from Saline, MI

Exploring Senior Living Communities during the Holidays

Dear Leanne,

The holidays are a common time for families to realize their aging loved ones need assistance. Family members visiting from out of town will see changes in a senior loved one’s health as more significant than those who see them every day. Visiting senior living communities during the holidays has some benefits.

4 Reasons to Tour Assisted Living Communities during the Holidays

  1. The family is together.

For many, the holiday season is the only time the entire family is together. Family members visiting from out of town can see changes in your loved one’s health for themselves. They can also offer a fresh perspective on what to look for in an assisted living community and help you come up with questions to ask on the assisted living tour.

  1. There are more activities.

Many senior living communities have more family activities during the holidays than at any other time of year. Events are a great chance to meet the residents and their families in a social setting. You can use this opportunity to ask them about their experience with the community.

  1. The mood is festive.

The holidays tend to put people in a good mood, so it’s an excellent time to meet the staff and residents in a community. Your loved one may also be more open-minded about exploring assisted living options. The festive atmosphere is a bonus, as it creates a warm and welcoming environment. Each of these factors can make the tour more enjoyable for seniors and families.

  1. You can beat the rush.

When families decide it’s time to start touring senior living communities, they usually put it off until after the holidays. For this reason, January can be a busy time for the communities. By starting the process during the season, you can beat the rush. Some communities even offer move-in specials. Discounted monthly rent, a free month of rent, or an application fee waiver are common promotions in December. Also, by starting early, your senior loved one may have more choices in terms of living space.

Touring Senior Living Communities

Visiting assisted living communities can be overwhelming. The process requires a lot of thought and careful consideration. By going during the holidays, seniors and their families can have a more enjoyable experience.

I hope this convinces you to tour senior living communities this holiday season!

Regards,

Donna

Heritage Senior Communities

If you are having trouble deciding whether it is time to start exploring senior living options, we can help. The staff at Heritage Senior Communities, including our Linden Square Assisted Living Center, has years of experience assisting seniors and their families. Contact us today to learn more.

 

 

How to Live Your Happiest Life after Retirement

How to Live Your Happiest Life after Retirement

If you are like most people, you are looking forward to retirement. You can say goodbye to your full-time job and hello to spending your time however you want. Yet, regardless of how excited you are about the next chapter in your life, it can still be nerve-wracking.

Many people struggle to adapt to their new lifestyle and are unsure of how to enjoy their free time. Here are a few tips for seniors who want to live their happiest lives after retirement.

Finding Happiness after Retirement

  1. Find a sense of purpose.

Many people lose their sense of purpose after they retire. Having a reason to get out of bed in the morning is essential to your overall happiness. Feeling like your life has meaning is linked to many health benefits, including:

  • Longer life span
  • Improved brain health
  • Reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease
  • Better sleep quality

Common ways retirees find their sense of purpose include mentoring younger generations, adopting a pet, or working part-time.

  1. Find opportunities to volunteer.

Volunteering for a cause you care about is another excellent way to find happiness post-retirement. In addition to making a positive difference in others’ lives, volunteering can also improve your sense of self-worth.

Altruistic behavior can help seniors avoid isolation. It also supports mental, physical, and social health. One of the best things about volunteering is you can donate as much or as little time as you want.

  1. Continue learning.

Taking up a hobby or learning a new skill can be a great way to enjoy retirement. In addition to keeping your mind active, continued education can give you a sense of accomplishment and boost your self-esteem. You can learn anything from a new language to an instrument. You could even rediscover an old pastime. Whichever route you take, learning is always a good way to pass the time.

  1. Stay connected to loved ones.

For years, research has shown that having strong relationships is key to your overall happiness. Close bonds also support longevity, reduce depression, and alleviate anxiety. During retirement, do your best to stay in contact with loved ones and make new friends regularly. Seniors who live in isolated areas often find it easier to meet people by moving to a senior living community.

Retirement Is a New Chapter in Life

Retirement is an exciting and rewarding stage in your life. It is the perfect time to explore hobbies, strengthen relationships, and focus on the things that bring you joy. By following these tips, you will be on the way to living your happiest life after retirement.

Residents at Heritage Senior Communities Live Their Happiest Lives

At Heritage Senior Communities, we encourage our residents to enjoy their post-retirement years. We offer many life enrichment activities, including exercise groups and art classes. Schedule a private tour to see how we help residents live their happiest lives.

4 Holiday Gifts to Pamper a Family Caregiver

4 Holiday Gifts to Pamper a Family Caregiver

Dear Donna,

My sister is our mother’s primary caregiver. She does a great job and regardless of how exhausted she is, she rarely complains. The holidays are coming up, and I would like to show her how much I appreciate everything she does.

Do you have any gift ideas for a weary caregiver? I’m looking for something special.

Sarah from Holland, MI

Pampering a Family Caregiver during the Holidays

Dear Sarah,

Family caregivers are busy and often pressure themselves to take care of others. It’s not uncommon for them to put their loved one’s needs ahead of their own. Unfortunately, when their needs are on the back burner too long, they can experience caregiver overload.

Caregiver overload, also referred to as caregiver burnout, occurs when they become physically, emotionally, and mentally exhausted. Many times, the best holiday gift ideas for Michigan caregivers give them a break from caregiving duties. By providing opportunities to relax and recharge, you can help prevent caregiver overload.

Here are a few gift ideas to pamper a family caregiver in your life.

4 Holiday Gifts for Caregivers

  1. Give them a break from cooking.

Many caregivers spend a lot of time preparing meals. It might be helpful to give them a break from cooking. There are a variety of ways you can do this:

  • Offer to cook their favorite meal.
  • Give them a gift card to a restaurant they enjoy.
  • Send food to their house using a meal delivery service.
  1. Spoil them with spa treatments.

Spa treatments, such as facials, massages, and hair appointments, can be wonderful gifts for caregivers. They provide an opportunity to have someone else take care of their needs for a change. You can even give them the spa treatment at home. For example, rejuvenating face masks, bath bombs, and essential oils make excellent gifts.

  1. Send flowers to their house.

Flowers are a timeless way to show appreciation. Caregivers will be delighted to receive a colorful arrangement. To really brighten up their day, include a personalized message.

  1. Relieve them from their caregiving duties.

One of the best gifts a caregiver can receive is a break. Even just a few hours of relief can help. If you can’t personally take over their responsibilities, consider paid respite care. These services, which can last anywhere from a few hours to a few weeks, can be provided in the senior’s home or at a senior living community, like Heritage Senior Communities.

Making Caregivers Feel Appreciated

Caregivers give so much of their time to others. The holiday season is a terrific time to give back and acknowledge their hard work. Regardless of what you give the caregiver in your life, they will appreciate knowing their efforts don’t go unnoticed.

I hope this helps you find the perfect gift for your sister!

Regards,

Donna

Heritage Senior Communities

If you are interested in learning more about respite care or any of our other senior living options at Heritage Senior Communities, feel free to reach out to our staff. Each of our communities, including our Appledorn location, offers several options for seniors and their families. Contact us today to schedule a private tour.