For more information about the author, click to view their website: Homestead Village of Fairhope
Independence is something we all crave and strive to maintain, making it challenging for us to ask for or accept help from time to time. As we get older, our desire for independence can also make it difficult to know or accept when it may be time to consider additional options like an assisted senior living community.
A common misconception is that you will lose your independence by living in a senior living community, which is simply not true. These communities offer a lifestyle that can help you maintain or enhance your independence. With team members at the community taking care of the time-consuming, everyday tasks like maintenance and upkeep, you are free to live your life exactly the way you want. Leaving you more time to visit with friends and family and pursue your interests.
Throughout Alabama, Community Senior Life (CSL) communities offer senior living options ranging from independent living to Alzheimer’s and dementia care. Our goal is to promote an environment that fosters independence while providing support and assistance in the areas that each resident needs.
How do you know when it is time for assisted living? We realize this question is hard to answer, and transitioning into senior living is a significant decision. Below, we are sharing signs to help you recognize when it may be time to start the process.
According to the National Council on Aging, “approximately 80% of older adults have at least one chronic disease, and 77% have at least two.” Chronic diseases and other medical conditions can impact an individual’s ability to not only care for themselves but also maintain their home and handle other responsibilities.
If you have one or more medical conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, it may be beneficial to consider an assisted senior living community. A senior living community can offer a maintenance-free lifestyle so that you have more time to focus on your health and wellness, as well as provide you with a team of caregivers who can help you manage your conditions, medications, and more.
We often take for granted the positive impact social interactions can have on our mental wellness. Offering benefits such as reduced stress levels, improved cognitive functioning, and boosted self-esteem, connecting with others is crucial to our well-being and can provide us with a sense of purpose.
As Joyce Carol Oates once said, “loneliness is like starvation: you don’t realize how hungry you are until you begin to eat.” Unfortunately, as we age, our socialization opportunities can become limited – we leave the workforce, children grow up and move away, etc.
Assisted senior living could be the ideal solution if you live on your own and feel yourself craving more social interaction. Our CSL communities offer activities and encourage individuals to interact with one another, forming a true sense of community. Beyond scheduled events and programs that cater to a variety of interests, residents can connect during meals, as neighbors, and more.
This is a major “how do you know when it is time for assisted living” sign.
We all have days when we choose to stay in our pajamas but choosing to stay in our pajamas all day is different than not getting dressed because it is too difficult. If you find yourself needing assistance with the activities of daily living (ADLs) like personal hygiene tasks, mobility, or general home maintenance, transitioning into an assisted senior living community could be the best option to maintain your independence and improve your overall quality of life.
According to an article published in the National Library of Medicine, “the activities of daily living (ADLs) is a term used to collectively describe fundamental skills required to independently care for oneself.”
ADLs are the physical skills we need to complete every day to lead a safe and healthy lifestyle. Broken down into five main areas, the American Council on Aging defines the basic ADLs as:
In addition to basic ADLs, there are also instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs). These require more complex thinking, organization, and tactical skills. However, most do not have to be performed every day. While they are not considered a part of “fundamental living,” IADLs are still necessary for a healthy and safe independent lifestyle.
The instrumental activities of daily living include:
If you find yourself taking more time to get dressed in the morning or are unable to coordinate transportation to doctor’s appointments and errands, you may benefit from transitioning into an assisted senior living community.
Healthy aging means healthy eating. If what you eat becomes more about convenience and less about nutrition, it can impact the way your body functions. Assisted senior living communities can help you maintain a balanced, nutrient-dense diet. At our CSL communities, we provide delicious meals and snacks that focus on nutrition. The best part is that you do not have to worry about preparing these meals or doing the dishes afterward!
Each of our assisted living communities provides an atmosphere akin to home with engaging activities and personalized services tailored to meet every resident’s unique needs. We work with individuals daily to improve or maintain their independence while always making ourselves available to provide a helping hand and assistance when needed.
We believe that healing happens when an individual feels comfortable and at home. This is why providing our residents with comfort is so important to us. Our team members strive to do everything they can to ensure residents in our assisted senior living communities receive the personalized attention and care that makes them feel welcome and part of our family.
Our assisted living features and amenities include:
The decision to move into an assisted senior living community is significant, but it could improve your overall quality of life. So, how do you know when it is time for assisted living? If you are showing any of the mentioned signs, the time may be now.
This article was submitted by Community Senior Life with senior living communities throughout Alabama. Contact Community Senior Life with any questions at 251-981-0200.
Moving to a personal care home is a big decision based on many factors. Cold winter months are drawing near, and the Farmers Almanac is forecasting a Winter Wonderland for the northeastern United States. Keeping this in mind, and to avoid winter chores, this is a great time to consider a respite stay and experience first-hand what life is like living in a personal care home.Experience an easier moveWinter weather conditions like snow and ice can complicate the move to a personal care home. Moving before bad weather conditions arrive allows seniors to avoid potential weather-related delays, accidents or other challenges during transportation and when moving belongings.Try out the personal care homeRespite care offers seniors a chance to try out a retirement community without making a long-term commitment. Country Meadows offers all-rental retirement living accommodations, so seniors are not beholden to a lengthy lease or an ownership stake. A respite stay can help older adults see for themselves whether or not the community is a good fit for a permanent move.Avoid winter weather challengesMany older adults struggle with winter chores such as shoveling snow, chipping away ice, walking on icy sidewalks, managing heating systems and driving in inclement weather. A temporary respite stay at a personal care home eliminates these responsibilities, as well as many other daily chores, removing worries. It provides seniors the opportunity to settle into their new living arrangement without the added stress of winter weather.Access daily assistance and health servicesAlong with cold weather, the winter season can also bring several challenges for older adults to maintain wellness. A major benefit to living at a personal care home is prompt, easy access to health resources and assistance. This is especially beneficial for seniors with health concerns and mobility issues. If a resident requires assistance with medications, dressing, bathing or another daily activity, simply push a call button and a personal care associate can provide needed help. And a wellness team keeps an eye on each residents overall health.Reduce lonelinessMany seniors experience loneliness and isolation while living at home. The winter months can magnify these feelings. Respite care offers opportunities for social interaction and engagement with new neighbors and friends in the same age group, reducing feelings of loneliness and providing mental stimulation.Participate in activities, enjoy entertainment and outingsSenior living communities often offer a variety of enriching activities and events. At Country Meadows, our Vibe program considers each residents physical, cognitive, social and spiritual needs and customizes activities, entertainment, outings and purposeful service opportunities. Events are organized seasonally by categories and offer opportunities for socialization and fun. When living at a personal care home, one doesnt need to brave the elements outside, because all the fun during winter is happening indoors, fostering a sense of belonging among residents.Provide relief for family caregiversA respite stay offers a break for family members and friends providing care in a seniors private home. This break is especially appreciated during winter months when private caregiving responsibilities might become more demanding due to inclement weather, illnesses or holiday-related activities.When considering respite care at a personal care home or retirement community over the winter months, its important to do some homework. Families and seniors should research and visit potential facilities to ensure the community can meet specific needs and preferences of each individual. The decision for respite care should prioritize the well-being, comfort and specific needs of each person, aiming to provide a supportive and enriching experience. Contact Country Meadows Retirement Communities today.
For older adults, life can become quieter and lonely as the years go by. One way to combat this life change is by owning a pet. The health benefits of owning a pet for seniors far outweigh the work that goes into owning one.Our furry, feathery, or even scaly family members can provide a variety of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. The bond between seniors and their pets goes far beyond mere companionship. Here are some of the top health benefits of owning a pet for seniorsReduces Loneliness And IsolationAs they get older, many seniors experience feelings of social isolation and loneliness. This can lead to depression and other significant health problems. Having a pet, whether its a dog, cat, or even a bird, provides companionship and helps to reduce these feelings of isolation. Pets are loyal and loving, offering unconditional affection that can significantly improve your mental and emotional well-being.Increases Physical ActivityOne of the biggest benefits of owning a pet, particularly an active dog, is that it forces you to be physical. Dogs need to be walked, which in turn encourages regular physical activity on your part. Seniors with dogs are more likely to go for daily walks or play with them in the yard. Even this little bit of physical activity helps maintain mobility, joint flexibility, and cardiovascular health. In addition, physical activity of any kind leads to a stronger immune system and a reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.Lowers Stress And AnxietySimply looking at a picture of a little puppy or kitten is almost guaranteed to put a smile on your face. Studies show that petting a dog or cat can trigger the release of the mood-regulating hormone serotonin. It also increases the feel good hormone dopamine while decreasing the level of the stress hormone cortisol. This fluctuation helps to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Additionally, a pets rhythmic, soothing presence can help lower blood pressure, contributing to overall cardiovascular health.Boosts Mental AlertnessInteracting with pets can stimulate mental alertness and cognitive function. While training your pet and teaching them tricks helps to boost their mental capacity, it also helps to maintain your mental acuity. This mental stimulation can delay the onset of cognitive decline and reduce your risk of dementia and Alzheimers disease.Fosters A Sense Of PurposeMost of us work hard and look forward to the day we can finally hang up our work boots and retire. However, when that day finally comes, many seniors often experience a diminished sense of purpose. Owning a pet can give you back a sense of responsibility and purpose. Caring for a pet requires routine tasks like feeding, grooming, and exercise, providing structure to your days and a reason to get out of bed in the morning.Enhances Social ConnectionsA study has shown pet owners are more apt to meet their neighbors than non-pet owners. Pets make great icebreakers for seniors when they are out on walks or at pet-friendly facilities. This can give you an opportunity to connect with others and strike up a conversation.Reduces The Risk Of Allergies And AsthmaAlthough it sounds like it would be the opposite, having a pet has been found to reduce the risk of developing allergies and asthma the older we get. This can be an added health benefit for seniors who have had pets throughout their lives.Get Your Purrfect CompanionOwning a pet can do wonders for your health and well-being. These little bundles of joy enrich seniors lives in ways that extend far beyond companionship. The emotional, physical, and mental health benefits of having a pet cannot be argued or overlooked. Seniors who share their lives with a furry friend often experience reduced stress, increased physical activity, enhanced emotional well-being, and a greater sense of purpose. This article was submitted by VIPCare. For more information visit the website: getvipcare.com
What Are Elder Law and Special Needs Planning?Elder law and special needs planning involve preparing for expected and unexpected life circumstances, including the possibility of becoming incapacitated as well as protecting and providing for future needs of loved ones with disabilities.At its core, Elder Law focuses on the unique needs of older persons and practice areas that address issues of concern for aging adults, adults with disabilities/incapacity, their families and caregivers. Unlike traditional estate planning, Elder Law begins by assisting you with issues associated with a long and healthy life, rather than simply planning for death. It mixes legal and practical issues such as being able to continue residing in your home if you had a chronic condition, having someone help in managing your finances, and not becoming a victim of financial abuse in the process. Elder law endeavors to help you solve the problem of not knowing what you dont know.Special Needs Law focuses on solving legal problems for individuals with special needs and their caregivers. Although there is no uniform definition of special needs, the phrase describes individuals with a wide variety of physical or mental conditions who require assistance with personal care needs, activities of daily living, paying bills, managing finances, etc., who may be vulnerable to and need protection from exploitation or abuse, and who may need access to public benefits or any number of other types of assistance. If you currently provide care for a child or loved one with special needs (such as mental or physical disabilities), you must have contemplated what may happen to him or her when you are no longer able to serve as the caregiver. Frequently, parents and grandparents are concerned about how their children and grandchildren will be cared for after the parents or grandparents deaths and want to plan in advance to protect their special needs loved one. Elder Law and Special Needs Planning encompass many different fields of law, including, for example: Disability planning, durable powers of attorney, living trusts, advance directives, other tools to delegate management and decision-making to another in case of incompetency or incapacity Estate planning, including the management of finances and assets during life and disposition on death using trusts, wills, and other instruments Special/Supplemental Needs Trusts Conservatorships and guardianships Long-term care planning and placements Trust and probate/estate administration Elder abuse and financial exploitation Medicaid planning Retirement and Social Security planningWhen each day seems to present a new challenge, thinking about the future can be overwhelming. A plan can help break things down into achievable pieces. No matter what age or stage, it is getting started that counts.This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice.This article was submitted by Ashley Day, Esq., A Day Law, LLC. Reach her at 251-277-3377.
Homestead Village is tucked away in the heart of Fairhope, Alabama, where calming privacy meets convenient amenities. Located two blocks from Thomas Hospital and just a half-mile from grocery stores, dry cleaners, banks, and restaurants, Homestead Village of Fairhope has the support of its extended community. Homestead Village of Fairhope features a wellness center, movement center, indoor heated pool, resident recreation rooms, beauty salon, and an on-site Pub & Grill.Assisted Living at Homestead Village of Fairhope is ideal for residents who may require additional assistance with activities of daily living. Our community provides our residents with personalized care that is tailored to their unique needs and desires because we understand that every resident requires different attention and services. Assisted living in our community does not mean the loss of independence!Our Assisted Living ServicesAssisted Living at Homestead Village of Fairhope was thoughtfully crafted to provide our residents with a friendly, comfortable home among friends, where the benefit of personal assistance is always available. Our residents receive well-balanced meals that are prepared and served in our dining room daily. We put thought into our meal-prepping by providing choices that are familiar and delicious, like home cooking, while paying close attention to special diet needs.Community Amentities:Indoor Heated poolThe Movement CenterWellness Center MembershipPrivate Dining RoomResident Recreation RoomsBeauty SalonThe Pub & Grill
Voted Best Retirement Community as part of Big Beautiful Baldwins Best of 2021, Live Oak Village offers exceptional independent and assisted living care services in Foley, Alabama. Live Oak Village is situated on approximately 200 acres of land covered with large oaks and located near medical, business, and shopping services. Live Oak Village is the premier senior living campus in south Baldwin County, where you or your loved one can experience shared community spaces bustling with energy and a genuine community with friends!We understand the desire to remain independent even if you need assistance completing certain tasks throughout the day. Our assisted living community in Foley, Alabama, is focused on providing our residents with the peace of mind in knowing that they can enjoy an independent retirement with assistance readily available when it is needed. Our care is tailored to each residents needs and desires; we want to help you or your loved one experience the retirement they crave and deserve!We offer short-term respite care services that will allow family caregivers to find solace in the fact that their loved one is take care of whether it be a few days or a few weeks.
Haven Memory Care is located near the beautiful white beaches of Gulf Shores, Alabama. Our community is Coastal Alabamas premier memory care provider offering memory care services for all stages of memory loss associated with Alzheimers or any other form of dementia. Haven Memory Care was thoughtfully designed to have a home-like setting where residents can feel safe and secure while participating in meaningful and engaging activities.Personal AmenitiesDelicious Home Cooked MealsSatellite TelevisionsVigil Monitoring SystemMedication ManagementPersonal Laundry ServicesHousekeeping and Linen ServiceRespite Stays AvailablePrivate ApartmentsBeauty and Barber Shop24/7 Nursing CareDaily Exercise ProgramsStimulating Social Activities