4 Common Types of Dementia and How to Get Support

Grief. Its one of the most difficult emotions we experience as humans.  While everyone navigates grief differently, offering the right kind of support can make a significant, meaningful difference. This guide provides practical tips and compassionate advice for supporting someone who is grieving, whether theyre mourning the loss of a spouse or spending time with older adults in a nursing home who have recently lost a friend.Well explore the various aspects of grief and the grieving process, from understanding common emotions to learning what to say and what not to say. By following these tips, you can be more prepared to provide meaningful, emotional, and practical support during these challenging moments.Understanding GriefThe Grieving ProcessGrief is a profoundly personal and natural response to loss, and it can manifest in a multitude of ways. This includes feelings of denial, disbelief, anger, sadness, and even physical symptoms such as fatigue or changes in appetite. There is no universal right way to grieve, as everyone copes with loss differently. The grieving process is unique to each individual and may require considerable time and patience.One of most important thing[s] to acknowledge about grief is everyone does it differently. In the vast majority of cases, as long as youre not harming yourself or someone else, how youre grieving is normal, said Taylor Jackson, Home Health Administrator with OnCare Home Health & Hospice.Common Emotions ExperiencedGrieving is a complex and personal experience that involves a multitude of emotions. People can feel a range of emotions, including shock, sadness, anger, guilt, and anxiety, as they come to terms with their loss. These emotions can be intense and unpredictable, fluctuating from day to day, so its vital to understand the depth of these feelings to provide meaningful and effective support to those who are grieving.Guilt is very normal, especially for individuals whose loved ones are in memory support, Jackson said. The grieving process for dementia starts at diagnosis. You start to grieve that person the second theyre diagnosed because you slowly, over time, lose them.The Impact of LossLoss can profoundly impact an individuals mental, emotional, and physical well-being, affecting all aspects of their daily routines, relationships, and overall quality of life. There are physical manifestations of grief. Its not just emotional, said Jackson. You might see appetite changes, you might see cognitive changes. Knowing these challenges can help you approach the situation with greater compassion and understanding.Providing Emotional SupportExpressing Compassion and EmpathyShowing compassion and empathy is essential when supporting someone who is grieving. This involves being present, listening actively, and acknowledging their feelings. Simple gestures like a hug or a kind word can go a long way in providing comfort.What To Say and What Not To SayKnowing what to say to someone who is grieving can be challenging. Phrases like Im so sorry for your loss or I cant imagine how you feel can be comforting. Its okay to talk about the person who has passed, said Jackson. It tells that person that you remember them and they impacted your life.Avoid saying things like Its time to move on, Everything happens for a reason, or Theyre in a better place, as these can minimize the grieving persons feelings.The Importance of Active ListeningActive listening involves paying full attention to the grieving person, acknowledging their feelings, and responding thoughtfully. This can help them feel heard, understood, and connected, which is crucial for the healing process.Validating Their EmotionsAs a supporter, your role in validating the emotions of someone who is grieving is crucial. By acknowledging that their feelings are normal and understandable, you can provide a sense of relief and acceptance.Practical Ways To HelpOffering Sensible AssistanceOffering to run errands, prepare meals, or help with everyday household chores can provide much-needed relief to someone who is grieving. These practical gestures make their daily life easier and show that you care.Providing Support Without OversteppingWhile offering help is essential, respecting the grieving persons boundaries is equally crucial. Ask for their permission before acting and listen to their needs and preferences.Engaging in Comforting ActivitiesEngaging in activities that the grieving person finds comforting can help lift their spirits. This might include going for a walk, watching a movie, or participating in a hobby they enjoy.Considering an Emotional Support PetEmotional support pets can provide companionship and emotional comfort to those who are grieving. If the individual is open to the idea, a pet can be an excellent source of unconditional love and support.Pets can also give somebody purpose when a loved one has passed, Jackson said. It gives the grieving person camaraderie and something to work for. Its not just about themthey have to keep an eye on someone else, too.Supporting CompassionatelyThe Significance of Showing CompassionBeing compassionate involves displaying kindness, patience, and understanding toward others. It requires us to empathize with the grieving person and provide them with non-judgmental support. Its about being there for them, listening to their feelings, and offering a helping hand without criticism.How To Show Compassion With Your Actions and WordsSimple actions like sending a thoughtful message, offering a listening ear, or spending time with the grieving person can be powerful. Use words that convey sympathy and understanding, such as Im here for you or Im thinking of you.Creating a Supportive EnvironmentCreating a supportive environment involves being present, offering assistance, and providing a safe space for the grieving person to express their feelings. This helps them feel less alone and more supported during difficult times.Cultivating EmpathyEmpathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person. In the context of grief, empathy means recognizing and acknowledging the depth of someones pain and offering sincere and meaningful support to help them through their difficult time.How To Show EmpathyTo demonstrate empathy toward someone who is grieving, its essential to actively listen to their feelings without interrupting. Offer words of comfort and validation to show that you understand and respect their emotions. Demonstrate your care by being fully present and attentive to their needs without judgment.The Impact of Empathy on HealingEmpathy, the ability to understand and share another persons feelings, is pivotal in the healing process. It fosters a deep sense of connection and validation for the grieving individual, allowing them to feel supported and less alone in their journey through grief. This emotional support can significantly alleviate the burden of grief, making the healing process more manageable.You never get over a death, Taylor Jackson said. You take the death and make it part of your identity. Every time you lose something or someone, you adjust who you are as a person.Practical Steps for AssistingWhen helping someone who is grieving, its essential to approach them with your understanding and patience. Offering practical assistance by taking on daily tasks that may feel overwhelming to them, such as cooking, running errands, or helping with chores, demonstrates how much you care, eases their burdens, and shows them theyre not alone.Simple actions like sitting quietly with them, holding their hand, or just being present can provide immense comfort. Your consistent presence and willingness to help with practical and emotional needs can significantly affect their healing process.Being Sensitive to Needs and PreferencesEvery individual grieves differently, so its essential to be sensitive to their unique needs and preferences. To offer the best support, directly ask them how you can help, including providing specific assistance, like accompanying them to appointments, helping with household tasks, or simply being a listening ear. Respect their wishes and boundaries, even if they prefer not to engage or need time alone. Being flexible and attentive to their cues ensures your support is respectful and meaningful.Recognizing When Professional Help Is NeededSometimes, professional help may be necessary for those who are struggling with grief. If you notice signs of severe depression, anxiety, or difficulty functioning, encourage them to seek support from a mental health professional. At Heritage Communities, we offer grief support and counseling services to help with navigating emotions and finding healing in a compassionate and supportive environment.Compassionate Support for Grieving Loved Ones With Help From HeritageSupporting someone who is grieving is a delicate and compassionate act. By understanding the grieving process, providing emotional and practical support, and showing empathy, you can make a meaningful difference in their healing journey. Remember to offer ongoing support and be present for your loved one as they navigate their loss.Being there for a grieving person can feel challenging and overwhelming, but your support can provide them with the strength and comfort they need to heal. If youre looking for more resources or personalized guidance, call our team today at Heritage Communitieswere happy to talk with you. Many of our communities have grief support groups.

Everything changes over time, including older adults and what they want from retirement. Todays seniors are a lively, involved, and discriminating group who arent interested in stereotypes from the past. Thats why senior living communities are offering more inspired choices than ever for fulfillment, fun, and longevity.Engaging, personalized, and focused on healthy aging: retirement is being redefined at senior living communitiesTodays older adults want more than just a comfortable place to live. They want more fun, more freedom, and more flexibility. In short, they want retirement living to bring more to their livesand thats exactly what happens in Heritage Communities.Seniors today:Understand the importance of socialization and engagement.Todays senior living communities know that good health is about more than just access to medical care and the right prescription drugs. Staying active, learning new things, and spending time with like-minded people are all ingredients in the recipe for better health.Its true that with age comes an increase in health concerns. Vision can change, and mobility may decline. That can make it more difficult to spend time with friends, go on outings, or make plans. And all of that can lead to harmful isolation. However, modern senior living communities remove these barriers, by placing seniors in the midst of activity, companionship, and wellness.Are more educated and staying busier than ever.Among people ages 65 and older in 1965, only 5% had completed four years of college or more. By 2023, this share had risen to 33%. A study published in the Journals of Gerontology found that over 60% of Americans aged 65-74 were involved in at least one type of paid or volunteer work. According to a study by the AARP Public Policy Institute, over 22 million Americans aged 50 and older are caregivers for a family member or friend.Todays seniors are drawn to living a purposeful life and positively impacting the community. Studies have shown that having a purpose is good for your mental and physical health. Seniors with a purpose in life are less likely to develop Alzheimers disease, heart attacks, or strokes.Are working longer.According to the Population Reference Bureau, in 2022, 24 percent of men and about 15 percent of women ages 65 and older were in the labor force. These levels are projected to rise further by 2032, to 25 percent for men and 17 percent for women.Want more interesting and stimulating activities and events.Seniors are leading more active lives than ever before. Many use their retirement years to travel, master new hobbies, or give back to their communities. The diverse interests and active lives of todays seniors mean better health. Numerous studies have shown that being more socially active in your 50s and 60s predicts a lower risk of developing dementia later on. The great news? Senior Living communities today are nothing like they used to be!Theres a whole new ambiance. Think welcoming. Upbeat and energetic. Fun! Todays senior living communities are places families and friends want to visit, to spend quality time with their loved ones. The focus on wellness and engagement can make it feel more like a vacation destination, where residents come and go as they please and plan their days as they choose.The barriers are gone. Aging can bring with it achy joints or vision thats not so sharp. But todays senior living communities give you the opportunity to hit reset and get back to all the things you have always loved. For example, instead of driving on your own, you can join the group for an outing to the theater, a favorite festival, or art exhibition. Or try some chair yoga. Maybe share a laugh with friends on an outdoor patio or balcony.Activities are geared to physical and mental wellness. Senior living communities today stimulate the mind and the body. Fascinating lectures. Social events that offer opportunities to connect with others. Walking groups, exercise classes, book clubs, happy hours, volunteering opportunities, games, holiday celebrations, family programs, intergenerational events, and so much more. In todays senior living communities, you can be as laid back and quiet as you want, or as active and involved as you choose.Ready to reimagine your retirement?If youve started to research retirement options, youll no doubt see there are endless ways and places to enjoy your retirement.At Heritage Communities, we work hard to tailor your experience to your expectations. Wed love to tell you more.

Brain Workouts: Keeping Your Mind Sharp With Effective Exercises As we age, attention to our cognitive health becomes increasingly important. Like our bodies, our brains benefit greatly from regular exercise, and its essential to incorporate brain workouts into our routines to maintain mental agility and sharpness.In this guide, well explore effective brain exercises tailored to seniors needs, providing detailed insights into how these mental gymnastics can help enrich their golden years. Whether youre looking to improve memory, enhance creativity, or boost overall brain function, this blog will offer practical tips and helpful information to help you get the most out of your mental fitness routine.Understanding Brain HealthThe brain, a marvel of human biology, undergoes several changes with age. While it is natural to experience a slight decline in cognitive abilities, cognitive health concerns like memory loss or diminished problem-solving skills are common. Exercises that can optimize brain performance are essential, and understanding the risk factors contributing to the brains health is vital.Types of Brain ExercisesPhysical Activities That Enhance Brain FunctionRegular physical exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy body and improving cognitive function. Activities such as walking, yoga, and tai chi have proven to enhance blood flow to the brain, which in turn helps to support neuron health and encourages the growth of new brain cells. This process is crucial for maintaining brain health and preventing cognitive decline as we age. The release of endorphins during exercise can also help reduce stress and anxiety, further promoting mental well-being.Mental Exercises for Memory Improvement and Cognitive HealthBy actively participating in mental exercises, seniors can take control of their brain health. These exercises strengthen the neural pathways in the brain, leading to faster and more effective processing. Here are some cognitive exercises specifically designed for seniors:Puzzles and brain games. Engaging in crosswords, sudoku, and other brain games can significantly benefit our cognitive abilities and overall brain health. These games can help improve our problem-solving skills, enhance memory retention, and even boost our creativity and mental flexibility.Learning something new. Engaging in new learning experiences, such as acquiring a new skill, hobby, or another language, can profoundly impact the brain. Research suggests that learning stimulates the brain in novel ways by creating new neural pathways and strengthening existing ones. This can enhance cognitive function, boost memory retention, and improve overall brain health.Memory exercises. Simple practices like memorizing a poem, a list of words, or even a phone number can significantly improve memory power. These practices help exercise the brain and build neural connections, improving memory retention and recall ability. Regular memory exercises can also enhance cognitive functioning and reduce the risk of age-related memory loss.Brain-Boosting Strategies for Everyday LifeIntegrating brain exercises into your daily routine can be a source of joy and satisfaction and a powerful tool for promoting overall cognitive health. The benefits of maintaining a brain-healthy lifestyle are numerous, and they can be achieved through a variety of practices, including:Social interaction. Frequent participation in social activities has been proven to be an effective way to prevent the development of negative emotions. Social engagement is a critical factor in maintaining cognitive health, as it helps to keep the brain active and functioning optimally.Healthy diet. Taking care of your physical health is necessary for maintaining and supporting brain health. A well-balanced diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins can work wonders for cognitive health. Antioxidants reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain, while omega-3 fatty acids help to build healthy brain cell membranes and improve communication between brain cells. Vitamins such as B6, B12, and folate help to reduce the risk of cognitive decline, improving memory and concentration.Adequate sleep. Getting a good nights sleep is crucial for our overall health and especially important for memory consolidation. While we sleep, our brains can rest and recharge, allowing us to process and store memories from the day. Its essential to prioritize sleep and create a relaxing bedtime routine to help us get the rest we need to function at our best.Enhance Your Mental Sharpness and Your Life With Heritage CommunitiesIncorporating brain exercises into the daily lives of seniors and older adults enhances current cognitive abilities, helping secure cognitive health for the years ahead. Maintaining cognitive health through regular brain fitness exercises isnt just beneficialits essential for living a vibrant and fulfilling life. Start small, stay consistent, and remember, its never too late to sharpen your mind and enrich your golden years!For those looking to support their cognitive wellness or that of a loved one, Heritage Communities offers comprehensive senior living care, like assisted living, designed to enhance the quality of life for seniors. Contact us today, and take the first step toward engaging your brain because a mind in motion stays sharp.