5 Ways To Improve Memory Power and Boost Brain Health
The Terraces at Bonita Springs
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Feb 04, 2022
Florida - Southwest
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There is a reason why little memory lapses are known as senior moments ,says Michele Wasserlauf, Executive Director at The Terraces at Bonita Springs. Our mental capabilities start do slow in our 60s and 70s, and that's natural just like how our physical abilities decline, especially if we aren't vigilant about using them.
That's why, says Michele, its important for seniors to take steps to keep memory and brain health as strong as possible. Our brains are very much the definition of use it or lose it, Michele explains. Taking steps now to keep your brain running at peak performance will pay off greatly as you age.
In honor of Healthy Aging Month, we've put together some information on how to improve brain health and memory function. These are all things that you can start putting into practice today, no matter how old or young you may be.
How Can You Protect Your Brain from Cognitive Decline?
When we hear the words cognitive decline, many of us automatically jump to the conclusion that were talking about dementias like Alzheimer's disease. However, cognitive decline is simply the decline of mental function due to age or another underlying reason. According to the article25 Ways To Improve Your Memory, our brains are particularly adept at forming new connections and strengthening mental sharpness even once cognitive decline is experienced. Here are some lifestyle tips to follow.
Learn something new. Taking a class, learning a language, playing an instrument or picking up a new hobby are all great ways to get your brain active and engaged. Learning a new skill requires repetition, problem-solving, memory skills and curiosity. These are all important factors when it comes to keeping brain cells active and brains healthy. As with any form of exercise which learning a new activity can be its important to choose something that interests you and doesn't force you to go at a breakneck pace. Brain exercises, crossword puzzles and other cognitive games are great ways to enhance memory and improve cognitive abilities.
Eat a healthy diet. Our diet influences so many aspects of our overall health. Eating a diet that is focused on keeping your heart healthy will provide benefits for your cardiovascular system and your brain (since the brain is fueled by the oxygen-rich blood that is pumped through your body). Its important to check with your doctor and get medical advice about any dietary restrictions or needs you might have, but here are some general rules to follow:
Choose dark leafy greens, like kale, spinach and Swiss chard
Eat foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish like mackerel and sardines
Opt for healthy fats, such as olive oil, avocados and other nuts and seeds
Snack on berries and dark chocolate, which are rich in antioxidants and can help your body fight against free radicals
Look for other brain-boosting vitamins and minerals like beta carotene
Get regular amounts of exercise. Exercise goes hand in hand with a healthy diet as a tentpole of a healthy lifestyle. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity at least 5 days a week. Exercise can be just about anything that gets your heart pumping and your blood moving. Gardening, walking around the block, dancing and cleaning the house are all acceptable and beneficial forms of exercise.
Hang out with friends and family. Staying socially connected boosts brain health in many ways. Being social reduces stress, improves mood, stabilizes emotions, keeps us mentally active and boosts serotonin production in our brains (the happy hormone). A lot of times, social events can be paired with other brain-healthy activities like exercise or taking a class. Its also been proven that eating with others helps older adults eat healthier and make better food choices. So when you're going out to dinner, having coffee with a friend or going on a walk together, you're not just nurturing relationships you're feeding your brain!
Get quality sleep regularly.
Getting a good nights sleep is essential to your brain health. Recent research has found that restful sleep helps to clear our brains of beta amyloids, which are proteins that have been linked to the development of dementias like Alzheimer's disease. In order to get the best possible rest, make sure that you practice good sleep hygiene. This includes making sure your bedroom is at a comfortable temperature and is dark and quiet. Having a nighttime routine can help get your body and mind ready for sleep, too. Be sure to avoid alcohol and caffeine too late at night, and be sure to turn off any screens at least one hour before bedtime.
Senior living communities like The Terraces at Bonita Springs encourage a brain-healthy lifestyle, says Michele. With senior living events, nutritious meals, engaging activities and events, socialization opportunities, fitness classes and more, seniors will find that keeping their brains healthy and active has never been easier or more fun.
About The Terraces at Bonita Springs
Recreation, special events, holiday celebrations, educational programs, guest speakers and a variety of inspiring activities take place throughout the year at The Terraces at Bonita Springs as part of the community's active lifestyle programs. The Terraces is the only Life Plan Community for senior living in the Bonita Springs area. Living choices include independent living, assisted living, memory support, skilled nursing and rehabilitation. All levels of care, including assisted living, skilled nursing and memory support, are open for direct admittance with no entrance fee.
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Recognizing the Right Time for Assisted Living
For many families, the decision to explore assisted living comes after a series of small but important changes in a loved ones daily life. Maybe it's missed medications, growing isolation, or increased difficulty with basic tasks. While these changes can be subtle at first, they often signal a deeper need for more structured support.Assisted living communities are designed to offer just thatsupport with everyday needs, social connection, and peace of mind for families. If you're beginning to wonder whether assisted living could be the right step for someone you love, here are some key signs to consider.Daily Tasks Are Becoming More DifficultWhen activities like cooking, cleaning, or getting dressed start to feel overwhelming or go undone, its often a sign that extra help is needed. In an assisted living setting, residents receive personalized support with these tasks, while still maintaining as much independence as possible. This balance helps preserve dignity while ensuring safety and comfort.Medication Management Has Become a ConcernIf your loved one is missing doses, taking the wrong medications, or struggling to follow a doctors instructions, it could be time to explore professional support. Assisted living communities typically provide medication management services, helping reduce the risk of complications and ensuring adherence to care plans.Memory Loss or Cognitive Changes Are Affecting Daily LifeMild memory lapses are part of aging, but more serious changessuch as confusion, repeating questions, or getting lost in familiar placesmay indicate the early stages of dementia or Alzheimers. Many assisted living communities offer specialized memory care, creating a safer, more structured environment tailored to residents with cognitive impairments.Increased Isolation or Social WithdrawalIf a previously social loved one is spending more time alone or avoiding activities they once enjoyed, it may be more than a mood shiftit could be a sign of depression or loneliness. Assisted living communities offer built-in opportunities to engage with peers through events, outings, and shared meals, helping residents stay socially and emotionally connected.Safety at Home Is a Growing WorrySlips and falls, cluttered walkways, or navigating stairs can turn a once-safe home into a risk. Unlike most houses, assisted living communities are designed with senior safety in mindstep-free entryways, wide hallways, accessible bathrooms, and 24/7 staff availability provide peace of mind for residents and families alike.Caregiver Stress Is Becoming UnsustainableProviding daily care for a loved one can be emotionally and physically exhausting. If caregiving responsibilities are taking a toll on your own health or well-being, it may be time to consider support from professionals who are trained to meet your loved ones needs.Planning Ahead Before a Crisis HappensPerhaps the most overlooked but valuable reason to consider assisted living is proactive planning. Moving before a crisis allows your loved one time to adjust, build relationships, and feel at home in a new communityrather than making a rushed decision during a health emergency.What to Look for in an Assisted Living CommunityOnce you begin exploring options, consider more than just floor plans and amenities. Here are a few essentials that directly impact quality of life: Personalized care plans that evolve as needs change Trained, compassionate caregivers with strong staff-to-resident ratios Flexible dining options with healthy, appealing meals Engaging life enrichment programs that support physical, social, and cognitive wellness A community atmosphere that matches your loved ones personality and preferences The best communities combine warmth and professionalismcreating an environment where your loved one can thrive.A Thoughtful Step Toward Greater SupportMaking the transition to assisted living is a major decision, but it doesnt have to be an overwhelming one. By paying attention to early signs and asking the right questions, you can help your loved one make a move that supports their health, happiness, and independence.Ready to Learn More? If you're seeing some of these signs in your loved ones life, were here to help. Schedule a visit to explore our community, meet our team, and get answers to your questions.
Why Assisted Living May Be the Right Choice for Your Loved One:
As adults get older, they often insist on maintaining their independence and want to continue aging in place at their homes. The concept of privacy and autonomy is very important to us; however, there may be a time when its no longer safe for an older relatives well-being for them to continue living alone at home. Our assisted living community provides support with assistance with activities of daily living, recreational activities, and staffing to ensure your loved one receives the care and support they deserve. Moving your relative into an assisted living facility can seem intimidating, but it will provide peace of mind for you and increase safety and comfort for your loved one. Though it can be emotionally difficult to consider, your older relative may need assisted living to continue living well. Here are some signs that it may be time for assisted living: Withdrawal from Interests and Social Activities Social engagement and keeping busy are important to the mental health and well-being of all of us. If you notice your relative pulling back from social commitments and showing a lack of interest in their hobbies and activities, this may be a cause for concern. Our assisted living community provides a calendar of events for residents and an engaging social network to combat loneliness. Difficulty Completing Daily Living Activities Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) are important essential activities of everyday life, such as bathing and toileting. When adults get older, many of them experience difficulties with these tasks. When it becomes too cumbersome for your relatives to complete ADLs on their own, it may be time for them to move to an assisted living facility. Our community aids with daily living activities, ranging from reminders to physical assistance from personal care aides. Errors in Medication Self-Administration Medication management is crucial for seniors. As seniors age, it is not uncommon for them to have trouble with taking the correct dosage of their medication at the right time. These mistakes can be seen as unimportant, but they may also have serious health consequences for your loved one. Our assisted living community can assist seniors with medication reminders and assistance. Increased Safety Concerns The elderly are at a higher risk than most for falling and receiving injuries. Many seniors insist on staying in their homes as they age, but there may be a point where the fall risk is too significant for them to live independently at home, especially for individuals who have homes with stairs or slippery floors. Our assisted living community has enhanced safety features, including grab bars, non-slip mats, and call buttons for emergency assistance. Caregiving from Family Members Becomes Overwhelming Many adults consider it an honor to take care of their aging parents, as their family once took care of them; however, the reality of caregiving can be emotionally and physically demanding on caregivers, with many reporting burnout and increased feelings of anxiety and depression. There may also be a point where a relatives needs exceed the caregiving abilities of their family members. This is a good time to consider assisted living for your loved one. Our community can provide more assistance and care from multiple caregivers in a secure setting. Your older relative may resist or express concern about moving into an assisted living facility, with many having fears about loss of autonomy and insistence that they dont need help, however, assisted living communities provide an opportunity to give support while maintaining a residents independence to the best of their ability. In our community, we value both independence and safety, encouraging residents to take part in planned activities and outings. Family and friends are always welcome to visit and be part of the experience. Schedule a tour today and discover why our community could be the perfect place for your loved one to feel at home.
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OakBridge Terrace at The Terraces
Memory Care 26475 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, Florida, 34134Memory Care in Bonita Springs, FloridaIf you are searching for memory care near me and live in southwest Florida, youve found the perfect place for you and your loved one.Located in Bonita Springs and convenient to those in Estero and North Naples, memory care at Renaissance at The Terraces offers those living with Alzheimers disease or dementia a beautiful, comfortable and welcoming place to call home. With the exceptional memory care, elegant setting and thoughtful lifestyles offered, Renaissance delivers the quality memory care experience that families expect for their loved ones.BROWSE OUR FLOOR PLANSMemory Care that Embraces the Whole FamilyFor those living with Alzheimers or other forms of dementia, (including Lewy body dementia) and for their families, the effects of memory loss can be devastating. We understand. Our exceptional care embraces everyone involved, from our residents to their families. Our trained memory care team works closely with residents every day. Our purpose is to engage each individual in a way that resonates with them personally; this approach respects their choices, promotes their remaining abilities and supports their independence in a safe environment. We also offer support and education for families, helping them to understand and cope with the challenges presented by Alzheimers and dementia. Renaissance, as well as all of The Terraces at Bonita Springs, welcomes family members to not only visit their loved ones but to also take advantage of every amenity offered within our senior living community. After all, this is where their loved one lives this is home. We welcome them to treat it as such. What does that mean to you? It means feeling at home at Renaissance. It means taking a stroll through the grounds. Soaking up the sun by the pool. This community is designed to allow everyone to live well. It means letting us provide care and support while you enjoy being family again.Personalized Alzheimers and Dementia CareWe believe theres no substitute for personalized attention. To us, memory care is only effective when it is incredibly personal, so we get personal. We take the time to get to know our residents. We learn their life stories and really get to know who they are. Through the smallest details residents interests, careers, family histories and favorite foods we can develop personalized dementia care plans and create positive emotional experiences that help stabilize residents moods without relying on pharmacology. Its an innovative approach to memory care in southwest Florida.State-of-the-Art Memory Care FacilityOur memory care facility in Renaissance is state-of-the-art, featuring a neighborhood concept that helps decrease residents anxiety, with common spaces to encourage socialization. No detail has been overlooked; no comfort has been spared. Our residents enjoy spacious private residences with nurses close by, allowing us to provide even better care. Rated 5 stars from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, families can be confident in the quality of our memory care services.Memory Care and Service Details:24-hour licensed nurses available24-hour Certified Nurses Aide assistanceRecreational therapistSecure environmentDedicated professionals specially trained to care for those with memory lossPersonalized care plan tailored to meet unique needs and preferencesSpacious, private studio residences with full private bathsAll utilities provided, including basic cableInclusive pricingMemory boxes to help residents locate their residence independentlySpacious activity and common areas designed to promote social interactionEnclosed courtyard for safe outdoor activities such as walking and family visitsInteractive and socially stimulating programming designed for those with memory loss
The Terraces at Bonita Springs
Skilled Nursing 26455 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, Florida, 34134Your Personal Retreat for Socialization and Relaxation The Terraces at Bonita Springs offers a stunning living environment, the finest resort-style amenities and services and the security of predictable pricing for health care as a Life Care resident. Choose from a one-, two- or three-bedroom floor plan; options include breakfast nooks, dens and additional half- and full-baths. Each residence comes with the finest finishes and appliances, lacking only in your personal touches. Our hospitable associates take care of all the maintenance, cooking and cleaning so you can enjoy a vibrant and connected lifestyle.
WillowBrooke Court at The Terraces
Skilled Nursing 26475 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, Florida, 341345-Star Skilled Nursing for Changing Health NeedsWhen someone youre caring for needs more help than youre able to provide, our Medicare-certified skilled nursing offers professional care in a comfortable, homelike setting. Skilled nursing services provide long- and short-term care for those recovering from an illness or injury.Our goal is to give residents the medical assistance they need and the personal engagement and social involvement they want. We subscribe to a philosophy of choice, empowering residents to make their own decisions as much as possible. Our associates are dedicated skilled nursing professionals at Renaissance, which means they can build strong personal bonds with residents. Skilled Nursing at Renaissance is open to the public, without a large entrance fee.Services and Amenities24-hour licensed nurses availableTV room, library and lounge areaFully furnished private suites with a personal bathFlat-screen TV in each residents residenceAll utilities included, including basic cable and local telephone serviceSocial and recreational activities and eventsPhysical, speech and occupational therapiesIndustry-leading staff ratios Short-term rehabilitative careLong-term residential carePost-surgical care IV therapy Pain managementSpecialized wound careOrthopedic rehabilitationFull-time lifestyle staff