Searching for Senior Care After a Holiday Visit with a Loved One

by Shelley | Dec 1, 2025 | Uncategorized

Dear Donna:

My mother-in-law lives in Michigan, while my husband and I live on the West Coast with our children. Though we chat with her via Zoom several times a week, we usually only see her in person once or twice a year.

Last June, we spent a week with her and she seemed to be managing well. During our Christmas visit, however, she was much frailer. I would say it’s more a general age-related decline in her health rather than any specific illness, but I don’t know for sure.

My husband and I talked on the flight home, and we think it’s time to explore options for senior care. We’re both worried about her living alone so far from us, but she is so well-established in her community there’s very little chance she’ll move closer to us. We’re pretty confident that she needs to move to a senior community.

Do you have any idea how we could begin to search for care solutions? We aren’t sure how to get started.

Sincerely,

Cassie

What to Do When a Senior Loved One Needs More Help

Dear Cassie:

This is a popular question we tend to receive after the holidays! Families who are separated by great distances are often surprised to see how much a loved one’s health has declined, especially when their family member has been assuring them that they are fine.

One of the first steps that I would encourage you to take is to ask her how long it’s been since she’s seen her primary care doctor. If it’s been a while, it’s important to encourage her to schedule a physical to check on her health.

Since you indicated your concern about your mother-in-law being alone, one interim suggestion might be to explore in-home care providers near her. They can help with light housekeeping, grocery shopping, laundry, and more. That can give you time to thoroughly search for a senior living community.

As far as starting the search goes, I have some pointers that I think will help.

How to Start the Search for Senior Living for a Family Member

Beginning the process of finding a community for a loved one can feel overwhelming. By taking a thoughtful, step-by-step approach, you can make it more manageable.

• Learn about the different types of senior living: Start by discussing your mother-in-law’s needs with your husband. Consider factors such as her level of independence, any special medical requirements, her budget, and social interests. This helps determine whether assisted living or independent living is most appropriate.
• Research nearby options: Next, research communities in the areas your mother-in-law likely wants to live in. Visit their websites and social media pages to see if they offer different levels of care and to determine whether or not they feel like a good fit. If they have a virtual tour on their website, spend some time reviewing it. This will help you build a list of communities that might be possibilities.
• Prepare your questions: Before you make any initial phone calls, create a list of questions you’ll want to ask. Include things such as availability, staffing, safety measures, meal options, and costs.
• Make screening phone calls: With these calls, you’ll primarily want to eliminate communities that are obviously not good options. Two factors to consider are cost and a long waiting list.
• Schedule in-person tours: While virtual visits can be very helpful, nothing beats getting inside a community. It gives you an opportunity to look around and talk with residents and staff. You’ll also want to create a list of questions to ask during a tour.

Finally, make every effort to involve your mother-in-law in the process. While overwhelming her with small details might not be necessary, making her feel like she is in control of her own life decisions is important.

I hope these tips are useful to you! Best of luck on the journey.

Kind regards,

Donna

6 Ways Alzheimer’s Affects Communication and How to Work Around It

by Shelley | Sep 28, 2025 | Uncategorized

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that gradually impacts memory, thinking, and behavior. One of the most challenging aspects for both those living with the disease and their loved ones is the way it affects communication. Conversations may become confusing, repetitive, or even frustrating.

Added to that is the physical damage the disease causes to the brain. As Alzheimer’s progresses, a person’s ability to speak becomes more impaired.

Understanding how Alzheimer’s affects communication—and learning strategies to adapt—can help preserve connection, reduce stress, and enhance quality of life.

Tips for Communicating with a Loved One Who Has Alzheimer’s

Here are six common ways Alzheimer’s impacts communication, along with practical tips for managing each challenge.

1. Difficulty Finding the Right Words

What Happens:
A person with Alzheimer’s may struggle to recall specific words or names. They might pause mid-sentence or substitute vague or incorrect terms (e.g., calling a watch a “hand clock”).

Work-around:

• Be patient and allow time for the person to find their words.
• If they’re stuck, gently offer the word they’re looking for.
• Avoid correcting them if they use the wrong word unless it’s really necessary.
• Use gestures or visual aids to support understanding. The prompting technique is often very helpful.

2. Repetition of Words or Phrases

What Happens:
Repetition is common as short-term memory declines. The person may ask the same question or repeat a story several times, sometimes without realizing it.

Work-around:

• Answer repeated questions calmly and consistently.
• Use written notes or visual reminders (e.g., a whiteboard with today’s schedule) to help reduce anxiety that leads to repetition.
• Distract gently with a different topic or activity if the repetition becomes distressing.
• Avoid saying, “You already told me that.” Instead, respond as if it’s the first time or redirect with kindness.

3. Trouble Following or Joining Conversations

What Happens:

As Alzheimer’s progresses, short-term memory is impaired or lost. That makes it more difficult for someone with the disease to follow conversations. This is especially true if the conversation moves quickly, involves multiple people, or covers unfamiliar topics.

Work-around:

• Speak slowly and clearly, using short, simple sentences.
• Stick to one idea at a time.
• Reduce background noise to help them focus.
• Give them your full attention and maintain eye contact to signal engagement.
• Ask yes/no or multiple-choice questions instead of open-ended ones, which can feel overwhelming.

4. Loss of Train of Thought

What Happens:
The person may begin a sentence and then lose track of what they were saying. Again, this challenge is usually linked to short-term memory loss. It can be frustrating for the senior and may lead them to withdraw from conversations.

Work-around:

• Offer gentle prompts to help them refocus: “You were talking about your walk today—what did you see?”
• Avoid rushing them or finishing their sentences unless they ask for help.
• Encourage a calm environment with few distractions so they can concentrate better.

5. Struggling to Understand Words or Meanings

What Happens:
Understanding spoken or written language may become difficult. Instructions or abstract concepts can be confusing or misunderstood.

Work-around:

• Use simple, direct language and repeat key points if needed.
• Demonstrate actions visually (e.g., pointing or showing) rather than just explaining them verbally.
• Avoid using figures of speech, sarcasm, or jokes that may not be understood. For example, instead of saying, “Let’s hit the road,” say, “Let’s get ready to go outside.”

6. Withdrawal from Conversation

What Happens:
People with Alzheimer’s may stop participating in conversations because they feel embarrassed, confused, or overwhelmed. This can lead to isolation.

Work-around:

• Create a safe, supportive space where mistakes are okay.
• Invite them to join in using nonverbal communication, like smiling, holding hands, or sharing photos.
• Focus on shared experiences—music, pictures, or familiar activities can spark engagement even if words are hard to come by.
• Even just sitting quietly together can be meaningful and comforting.

Schedule a Visit to a Heritage Memory Care Community

As a leader in dementia care, Heritage is proud to offer memory care support across the state of Michigan. We invite you to schedule a time to visit and learn more. You might find our respite care services to be of interest if you are a caregiver for a loved one with dementia. Call the location nearest you to set up a time!

10 Simple Daily Habits for Healthy Aging

by Shelley | Aug 28, 2025 | Uncategorized

Living a healthy life doesn’t have to be complicated or overwhelming. In fact, it’s often the small, consistent habits that make the biggest difference over time. Whether you’re looking to improve your physical health, boost mental well-being, or increase energy levels, adopting positive daily habits is often a powerful first step.

If you think it’s too late to make a difference, think again. Researchers say you are never too old to adopt a healthier lifestyle.

Developing Habits for Healthy Aging

Here are 10 essential habits for healthy living that anyone can incorporate into their lifestyle:

1. Eat a balanced diet.

Fuel your body with a variety of whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Avoid overly processed foods and sugary snacks. A colorful plate not only supports physical health, but also strengthens your immune system and improves mental clarity.

2. Stay hydrated.

Water is essential for every cell in your body. Unless you have a health condition that requires you to restrict fluids, the general recommendation is to aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day. Staying hydrated helps regulate body temperature, flush out toxins, support digestion, and keep your skin glowing.

3. Exercise regularly.

Physical activity is vital for heart health, muscle strength, flexibility, and mood. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week, such as brisk walking, swimming, cycling, or strength training. Even short bursts of activity throughout the day can add up.

4. Get enough sleep.

Sleep is your body’s natural reset button. Adults should aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night. Good sleep improves memory, mood, immune function, and even helps with weight control. Create a calming bedtime routine and limit screen time before bed.

5. Manage stress effectively.

Chronic stress can take a serious toll on your physical and mental health. Learn to manage it through techniques like meditation, deep breathing, journaling, yoga, or talking to a therapist. Even simple moments of mindfulness throughout the day can help.

6. Maintain social connections.

Strong relationships improve mood, reduce stress, and even increase lifespan. Isolation among seniors can put older adults at risk for a variety of health conditions. Make time for family and friends, join clubs or community groups, or reach out to someone you haven’t talked to in a while. Connection is a key pillar of well-being.

7. Limit alcohol and avoid tobacco.

If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation—no more than one drink per day for women and two for men. Avoid tobacco entirely, as it’s linked to numerous chronic diseases. Your body begins to repair itself almost immediately after quitting.

8. Practice good hygiene.

Simple habits like regular handwashing, brushing and flossing your teeth, and bathing daily protect against illness and infection. Personal hygiene also boosts self-esteem and confidence.

9. Schedule regular check-ups.

Preventive care can catch problems early when they’re easiest to treat. See your doctor, dentist, and optometrist regularly—even if you feel healthy. Screenings, vaccinations, and health advice are all part of maintaining long-term wellness. Taking advantage of the yearly Medicare wellness visit can help you stay on top of these items.

10. Keep learning and stay mentally active.

Challenge your brain by reading, learning a new skill, doing puzzles, or engaging in hobbies. Lifelong learning supports mental sharpness, improves memory, and may help prevent cognitive decline as you age.

Follow the Heritage Blog

Healthy living is not about perfection—it’s about making consistent choices that support your well-being. Start by focusing on one or two habits from this list and build from there. Over time, these small daily actions can lead to big, lasting results for your body, mind, and quality of life.

One resource you might find helpful in continuing to learn about healthy aging is the Heritage blog. It’s updated each week with news on topics ranging from nutrition and exercise for older adults to managing chronic stress. We encourage you to bookmark the blog and stop back soon!

Natural Ways to Help a Senior Caregiver Boost Their Immune System

by Shelley | May 28, 2025 | Uncategorized

If you are a senior caring for a loved one, it’s important to remind yourself that your health is just as important as theirs. Many caregivers neglect their health until they experience a medical crisis of their own. Your immune system is your first line of defense against illness, and maintaining it naturally is vital—not only to protect yourself, but also to avoid passing infections on to the person you are a caregiver to.

With the demands and stresses of caregiving, it’s easy to overlook self-care. But boosting your immune system doesn’t require drastic changes. Here are eight natural, practical ways to support your immunity while caring for others.

1. Prioritize nutritious, whole foods.

A well-balanced diet is essential for a strong immune system. Focus on colorful fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as zinc and antioxidants. Foods like citrus fruits, spinach, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers can help your body fight off infections. Include lean proteins, whole grains, and probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables to support gut health, which plays a significant role in immunity.

2. Stay hydrated.

Dehydration can weaken your immune response and contribute to fatigue and headaches. As a caregiver, staying hydrated helps keep you mentally alert and physically strong. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and limit dehydrating beverages like sugary sodas or excessive caffeine.

3. Get enough sleep.

Quality sleep is one of the most powerful natural immune boosters. Lack of rest reduces your body’s ability to fight off infections and recover from illness. Aim for seven to eight hours of restful sleep each night. Create a calming nighttime routine and minimize screen time before bed to improve sleep quality.

4. Manage stress.

Chronic stress can suppress immune function, making you more susceptible to illness. Caregiving is naturally stressful, so it’s important to find healthy ways to cope. Try meditative deep breathing exercises, journaling, or even taking short walks to decompress. Staying socially connected, even with just a quick call to a friend, can also relieve stress.

5. Exercise regularly.

Physical activity helps flush bacteria from the lungs, reduces inflammation, and promotes better circulation—all of which support immune health. You don’t need an intense workout to see benefits. A daily walk, light stretching, or chair yoga can go a long way in boosting your immune system and improving mood.

6. Wash hands and sanitize often.

Frequent handwashing is one of the most effective ways to protect your immune system. As a caregiver, you’re constantly in contact with surfaces and other people. Wash your hands thoroughly, use hand sanitizer when needed, and keep your environment clean to reduce the spread of germs.

7. Get fresh air and sunshine.

Natural sunlight helps your body produce vitamin D, which plays a key role in immune health. Even fifteen to twenty minutes outside a few times a week can help. If you’re inside most of the day, consider a vitamin D supplement after consulting with a healthcare provider.

8. Don’t skip preventive care.

Stay current with your annual wellness visit with your doctor, as well as any vaccinations and screening tests they recommend. These include mammograms, colonoscopies, cholesterol screenings, and flu shots. Prevention is key, especially when you’re around seniors with compromised immunity.

Respite Care at Heritage Senior Communities

Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. When you boost your own immune system naturally, you’re better equipped to care for your loved one with energy, patience, and resilience. Sometimes that means taking a break.

Respite care services are available at many senior living communities, including Heritage. These short-term stays are designed to give a family caregiver time to tend to their own needs. Learn more by calling the Heritage location nearest you today!

Tips for Spouses Caring for a Loved One with Dementia

by Shelley | Sep 30, 2024 | Uncategorized

When a spouse or partner is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia, the entire family feels the impact. It is a tough condition for the senior to live with and for a family caregiver to manage. The journey can be both emotionally and physically demanding.

Understanding how to navigate the challenges that come with the disease is essential for both the caregiver and the person with Alzheimer’s. Here are some suggestions to help you feel more confident on this difficult path.

Caregiving for a Loved One with Dementia

• Educate yourself: Understanding the form of dementia your family member has is the first step in managing it effectively. Take time to learn about the disease, its stages, and the common behaviors associated with it. Resources such as the Alzheimer’s Association and the National Institute on Aging can provide you with valuable information and insight. Being informed will help you feel empowered as you care for a loved one with dementia.
• Establish a routine: Individuals with memory loss often feel more secure when there is a structured routine. Establish daily schedules for meals, activities, and rest. Consistency helps reduce anxiety and confusion, making it easier for your spouse to navigate their day.
• Communicate clearly: As the disease follows its typical course, communication may become more challenging. Using simple language, speaking slowly, and maintaining eye contact can help. Avoid overwhelming your partner with too many open-ended questions or choices at once. Non-verbal communication, such as gestures and facial expressions, can also be very effective.
• Focus on the present: Alzheimer’s can lead to memory loss and confusion about the past. For a spouse or adult child, it can also be tough not to think back to what the senior was able to do before developing dementia. Instead, try to focus on the present. Engage in activities that promote meaningful experiences, such as listening to music, going for walks, tending a garden, or doing light housekeeping chores.
• Encourage independence: While it’s important to assist your spouse, especially if their safety is at risk, it’s also essential to encourage them to do as much as they can on their own. Small tasks, such as making their bed or setting the table at mealtime, can help maintain a sense of independence and dignity. Offer help only when necessary and celebrate their accomplishments, no matter how small they might seem.
• Create a safe environment: Safety is a major concern as dementia progresses. Take a proactive approach to making home modifications that can help prevent accidents. Check stair treads for stability, install grab bars in the bathroom, and ensure that frequently used items are easily accessible. Also, consider using safety devices like home security systems or GPS tracking devices if your senior loved one is at risk for wandering. Remember, research shows that six in ten adults diagnosed with Alzheimer’s will wander.
• Manage stress: Caring for a spouse with Alzheimer’s can be overwhelming. It’s essential to take care of your own well-being. Establish a support system of friends and family or join a support group. Regularly connect and engage in activities that bring you joy, whether it’s exercise, hobbies, or simply spending time with loved ones.
• Plan for the future: While it may be difficult, planning for the future is vital. Discuss legal and financial matters early on, including power of attorney and advanced healthcare directives. Make arrangements for long-term care if needed. Planning can provide peace of mind and ensure that both you and your spouse are taken care of in the years ahead.
• Embrace moments of joy: Amid the challenges of the day, try to find ways to celebrate small victories and cherish joyful moments. Joy might not be as obvious as it once was, but you’ll likely find it if you look. Maintaining a positive outlook can make a significant difference for both of you.

Visit a Heritage Community Near You

Caring for a family member with Alzheimer’s is a journey filled with challenges, but it can also be rich with love and connection. When the days feel overwhelming and you need a break, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance.

Respite care in a senior living community that offers specialized dementia care can provide much-needed support. These services can help you take a break, recharge, and maintain your own health while ensuring your spouse receives quality care. Call the Heritage community nearest you to learn more today!