Resources For Aging Well

Trying to determine the level of care that you or your loved one need can be a difficult decision. Assisted living is designed for people who need help with daily living activities, such as dressing and bathing, but do not require around-the-clock care. Learn more about who qualifies for assisted living below.Who Does Not Qualify for Assisted LivingBefore defining who exactly qualifies for assisted living, it may be easier to describe those that do not qualify. Specifically, there are people who may seek care but may need more assistance than assisted living can provide. Some examples of those that cannot be admitted into assisted living facilities in Colorado include:Individuals that are consistently incontinentIndividuals who are bedriddenIndividuals that require around-the-clock nursing servicesIndividuals that need restraintsIndividuals that have a transferable disease or infectionIndividuals that have a substance abuse problemThese individuals would be better suited for a nursing home or long-term care. Read more about the difference between assisted living and nursing homes in our blog post.The Process of Qualifying for Assisted LivingIn order to qualify for assisted living facilities, you or your loved one will be required to pass an assisted living pre-admission assessment, which evaluates level of independence and types of care needed. These evaluations also factor in social, cultural, and religious needs of the prospective resident before admission to ensure that the specific facility can provide these needs.Assisted Living at Sharmar VillageResidents in assisted living often need assistance with everyday tasks such as bathing, dressing, taking medications, and more. Caregivers are available 24/7 at Sharmar Village to make sure that each resident is getting exactly what they need. Learn everything you need to know about Assisted Living in our comprehensive guide. At Sharmar Village, our Assisted Living program aims to provide as much autonomy as the resident is capable of, ranging from heavy supervision to only needing assistance with walking to and from meals and activities, and anywhere in between.We are a continuum of care facility, meaning that if you or your loved ones needs increase or change, we can accommodate you. With offering both long-term and memory care, we provide a smooth transition into any level of care required.Ready to get started with your assisted living journey? Request a tour of our facility today!Have other questions? Contact us!

Aducanumab and Lecanemab: How are they different?Aducanumab and Lecanemab are both medications for the treatment of Alzheimer~s disease. Aducanumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets beta-amyloid, a protein that accumulates in the brain and is associated with the development of Alzheimer~s. Lecanemab is also a monoclonal antibody but it targets a different structure of beta-amyloid, called N3pG, which is believed to play a key role in the formation of amyloid plaques in the brain.The main difference between Aducanumab and Lecanemab is their mechanism of action. Aducanumab works by removing beta-amyloid from the brain, while Lecanemab works by blocking the formation of amyloid plaques in the brain.In clinical trials, Lecanemab has been shown to remove amyloid more quickly than Aducanumab or another medication called gantenerumab. Lecanemab has also shown a lower incidence of a side effect called ARIA (amyloid-related imaging abnormalities) compared to Aducanumab in clinical trials.It is important to note that both medications are still under investigation and more research is needed to fully understand their benefits and limitations. The choice of medication will ultimately depend on a patient~s specific needs and circumstances, and should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.Additionally, Aducanumab is approved for use in some countries, including the U.S., but is still awaiting approval in others. Lecanemab as of January 6th, 2023, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) through the Accelerated Approval pathway.Both Aducanumab and Lecanemab are part of a growing body of research into new treatments for Alzheimer~s disease, which remains one of the most challenging and devastating neurological conditions. There are currently limited treatment options for Alzheimer~s, and the development of new and effective therapies is a major priority for researchers and clinicians.While both medications show promise in their ability to target beta-amyloid, it is important to remember that treating Alzheimer~s is a complex process that involves addressing multiple factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and environment.In conclusion, the differences between Aducanumab and Lecanemab lie in their mechanism of action and stage of development. Further research is needed to determine the long-term safety and efficacy of these medications in the treatment of Alzheimer~s disease. As with any medical treatment, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for an individual patient.Author:  Kathleen Warshawsky, RN, BSN | Publisher Seniors Blue BookOther articles you may like:Aducanumab and Lecanemab: How are they different?The Success of Lecanumab (Leqembi) in Treating Alzheimer~s DiseaseThe Success of Aducanumab in Treating Alzheimer~s Disease

The Success of Lecanumab (Leqembi) in Treating Alzheimer~s DiseaseAlzheimer~s disease is a debilitating and progressive brain disorder that affects more than 6.5 million Americans. It slowly erodes memory and thinking skills, and eventually the ability to carry out simple tasks. Despite the efforts of researchers and scientists, the specific causes of Alzheimer~s disease are still not fully known. However, the disease is characterized by changes in the brain such as amyloid beta plaques and neurofibrillary tangles that result in the loss of neurons and their connections. These changes impact a person~s ability to remember and think, leading to a decline in cognitive function.Leqembi, also known as lecanemab-irmb, is a new treatment for Alzheimer~s disease that as of January 6th, 2023, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) through the Accelerated Approval pathway. This new treatment represents an important advancement in the ongoing battle against Alzheimer~s disease, as it targets the fundamental pathophysiology of the disease, rather than merely treating its symptoms.Leqembi~s efficacy was evaluated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group, dose-finding study of 856 patients with Alzheimer~s disease. The study showed that patients receiving the approved dose of Leqembi (10 milligrams/kilogram every two weeks) had a statistically significant reduction in brain amyloid plaque compared to the placebo arm. The amyloid beta plaque was quantified using positron emission tomography (PET) imaging, and was estimated in a composite of brain regions that are expected to be widely affected by Alzheimer~s disease pathology.The results of this study support the accelerated approval of Leqembi, which is based on the observed reduction of amyloid beta plaque, a marker of Alzheimer~s disease. The prescribing information for Leqembi includes a warning for amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA) and a risk of infusion-related reactions. However, the most common side effects of Leqembi were infusion-related reactions, headache, and ARIA.The FDA granted Leqembi Fast Track, Priority Review, and Breakthrough Therapy designations, highlighting the significance of this new treatment for Alzheimer~s disease. Leqembi~s approval marks a major milestone in the fight against Alzheimer~s disease, providing hope for patients and their families who have been affected by this devastating condition.Leqembi has been proven to be an effective treatment for Alzheimer~s disease, offering a new hope for patients and their families. The results of the clinical trial demonstrate a significant reduction in brain amyloid plaque, a hallmark of Alzheimer~s disease, and provide a strong foundation for further research and development in this field.References:      U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2023, January 6). FDA Grants Accelerated Approval for Alzheimers Disease Treatment. [Press Release]. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-grants-accelerated-approval-alzheimers-disease-treatment      Leqembi. (n.d.). Medication Guide. Retrieved from https://www.leqembi.com/-/media/Files/Leqembi/Medication-Guide.pdf?hash=d4e8f584-6cf3-41c4-a7f3-34bda6abb800Author: Kathleen Warshawsky, BSN, RN | Publisher Seniors Blue BookOther articles you may like:Aducanumab and Lecanemab: How are they different?The Success of Lecanumab (Leqembi) in Treating Alzheimer~s DiseaseThe Success of Aducanumab in Treating Alzheimer~s Disease

While both types of facilities focus on supportive service and a safe environment for their residents, there are key differences between assisted living and nursing homes. Keep reading to understand these differences and discover which type of living is best for you or your loved one.Defining Assisted Living and Nursing HomesAssisted living and nursing homes, while similar in nature, help to achieve different purposes based on the level of care that the resident is seeking. Assisted living is designed for those who require help with daily activities, with a combination of personalized supportive services and health care.Nursing homes, also called skilled nursing facilities, are designed for individuals who require medical care and monitoring at all times, providing comprehensive care in a comfortable setting.Level of CareIn assisted living, the staff assists residents with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, toileting, and medication management. They may also assist with other tasks such as transportation and housekeeping. Take a look at the assisted living services that are available at Sharmar Village.Those in nursing homes also receive assistance with daily living activities along with more complex medical care, such as physical therapy, speech therapy, respiratory care services, ongoing palliative medical care, or specialized rehabilitation services. Take a look at the long-term care services that are available at Sharmar Village.Type of Living/LifestyleAssisted living is designed to feel more independent and home-like, with individual apartments or suites that may have amenities such as a private bath or kitchenette. There are common areas where residents have access to recreational activities, either individually or in a group setting.Nursing homes provide medical and personal care in a more clinical setting (without a living room or kitchen) as residents are not able to live independently. The focus of the lifestyle of the resident is care, safety, and comfort. They have access to limited recreational activities that align with their plan of care.Take a look at all of Sharmar Villages floor plans for each of our different services.What We OfferHere at Sharmar Village, we offer a continuing care retirement community for our residents. A CCRC is a senior living community that combines an active lifestyle, hospitality, and access to different levels of healthcare in one convenient location. These differing levels of health care, such as independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation services are offered so residents can age in place and receive the right level of care at any given time. Take the quiz to see what type of continuum of care is best for you or your loved one or if you want more information on assisted living, check out our comprehensive guide covering everything you need to know about assisted living in Pueblo.Have more questions? Contact us!