For more information about the author, click to view their website: https://www.claridgecourt.com/health-services/skilled-nursing/
Do you find yourself grappling with feelings of isolation because friends and family live far away? Is it difficult to find and connect with like-minded people? This is a common struggle for many older adults. The University of Michigan’s National Poll on Healthy Aging reports “one in three adults age[d] 50–80…reported feeling isolated from others.” With these increased feelings of loneliness, many seniors begin to experience some type of depression, which affects about 6 million Americans ages 65 and older. If you or your loved one is struggling with social isolation or depression, here are some tips and techniques to help overcome it.
While depression is not an inevitable aspect of aging, its prevalence in the older adult demographic is notable. In this stage of life, you can experience a myriad of physical, mental, and social changes such as moving on from a beloved career, downsizing to a new home, or experiencing an unexpected illness or injury. Dealing with these changes may be stressful and can lead to depression.
An additional factor that can trigger depression is feeling isolated and lonely. When you feel alone, it’s easier to slip into detrimental behavior patterns such as eating junk food, withdrawing socially, and not participating in hobbies that used to once bring joy.
It’s important to recognize that the anguish of experiencing loneliness is almost as challenging as experiencing physical pain. Enduring chronic loneliness can not only trigger depression, it can potentially contribute to the development of dementia, Alzheimer’s, or severe cognitive decline.
Armed with a deeper understanding of depression and isolation, it’s time to uncover methods that can aid you in coping with and ultimately conquering these conditions.
Speak to your doctor about what you are experiencing. Doctors can sometimes prescribe medications or therapies that can help. Asking for professional help is the best way to start the path forward for positive outcomes. Remember that depression is a serious condition and should always be discussed with a professional.
Exercise not only improves your body’s physical condition, but it also releases endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good hormones, which help you feel happier. Physical activity opens the door for meaningful social interactions. When you join a group exercise class like aerobics or form a neighborhood walking group, it allows you to connect with individuals who share similar interests and fitness aspirations. Be sure to speak to a health professional before starting any new exercise program, however.
Talking to a mental health professional can ease your emotional burden, giving you a safe, private space to talk about your feelings or concerns. A therapist can help you manage triggers and provide techniques to manage and even overcome depression.
What you eat has a significant impact on your physical and mental health. High-consumption of red meat, sugar, and processed foods are linked to depression. Conversely, fruits, vegetables, lentils, and a moderate amount of fish have been shown to help alleviate symptoms of depression. A registered dietitian or nutritionist can help you establish a well-rounded diet to reduce chances of experiencing depression.
Keep feelings of isolation at bay by surrounding yourself with loved ones who uplift, support you and like to have fun. Plan activities together, whether it’s going to the movies, exploring each other’s local neighborhoods, or enjoying a delicious Sunday morning brunch together.
If you’re yearning to be part of a community of genuine, like-minded people, look no further than Claridge Court, a senior living community in Prairie Village, Kansas. Claridge Court boasts of a multitude of luxurious country club-style services and amenities, including private, spacious apartments, fine-dining restaurants, a fitness center and studio, and weekly housekeeping.
If you’re looking to transform your lifestyle and experience more vibrancy and growth, contact us to learn more.
As we age, simple daily tasks that we once took for granted may become more challenging. For many seniors, getting assistance with these tasks is crucial in maintaining quality of life, independence, and dignity. Here at Senior Helpers Overland Park, our mission is to provide compassionate care and practical help to seniors in need. We will help caretakers better understand and support the daily living activities of seniors, ensuring safety, comfort, and respect. Whether it's bathing, dressing, grooming, or using adaptive equipment, we'll guide you through the best practices to provide the right assistance while promoting independence.The Unique Needs of SeniorsAs individuals age, completing daily tasks independently can become difficult due to physical or cognitive limitations. However, everyone's level of ability and independence varies. By recognizing the personal limits and promoting self-reliance wherever possible, we empower seniors to be active participants in their care.Caregivers have to ensure the safety of seniors during daily tasks, whether it's preventing slips in the bathroom or avoiding hazards during meal prep. In addition, an equally important aspect is comfort. Be mindful of your loved one's physical limitations and emotions, ensuring they feel secure and dignified during these intimate moments.Assisting With Bathing and Personal HygieneBathing strengthens physical health and overall well-being. For seniors who struggle with mobility, careful assistance is essential. Before starting, ensure the bathroom is warm and all necessary supplies are at hand. Maintain their privacy as much as possible, using towels to cover areas not being washed. Remember to communicate throughout the process, ensuring they are comfortable and informed.Assisting With Dressing and GroomingDressing and grooming are personal tasks that seniors may find challenging due to mobility or coordination issues. To help, start by organizing clothes that are easy to put on and remove. While assisting, gently guide seniors through each step, offering help only when needed. In grooming activities like combing hair or shaving, be patient and gentle, always respecting their preferences and comfort.Using Adaptive EquipmentAdaptive equipmentincluding grab bars, shower chairs, and dressing aidsis key to helping seniors maintain independence, especially in their personal care routines. These tools can minimize strain and risk of injury, allowing seniors to perform tasks more easily. Ensure that you familiarize yourself with these devices and are comfortable in using them. Equally importantly, involve your loved ones in the decision-making process when choosing adaptive equipment to meet their specific needs.Maintaining a Respectful ApproachCommunicating effectively and respectfully ensures seniors feel heard and valued. Encourage them to express their feelings, ask for their consent before providing assistance, and respect their decisions. Striking a balance between assisting with daily tasks and enabling independence can be challenging, but it is vital for a senior's self-esteem and overall well-being.Senior Helpers Provides Custom Care ServicesTaking care of seniors involves a delicate balance of providing assistance and promoting independence. Caregivers play an invaluable role in ensuring the safety, comfort, and dignity of their loved ones during their daily activities. At Senior Helpers Overland Park, we're committed to providing high-quality care and support for seniors and their families in Overland Park, Olathe, Leawood, and Prairie Village. Whether you need advice, respite care, or long-term support, our dedicated and experienced team is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our senior care services!
Being mindful of our dietary choices can result in improved cognitive health and emotional stability. The food we consume significantly contributes to these aspects, helping us to feel better, think clearer, and reduce stress levels. Senior Helpers Overland Park will explore the wonderful world of nutrition and its impact on our brain and emotional health. We've compiled a list of brain-healthy and stress-relieving foods that are beneficial for everyonefrom seniors looking to boost their cognitive abilities to caregivers needing a little help managing stress.Nutrition and Brain HealthCertain nutrients help to enhance memory and cognition and delay brain aging. This is particularly beneficial for seniors, who are often at risk of cognitive decline. Seniors can stimulate brain function and maintain their mental health by incorporating brain-friendly foods in their diet.Nutrition and Stress ManagementJust as foods can boost your brain health, they can also aid in managing stress levels. The body's response to stress can be intensified by inadequate nutrition. A well-balanced diet can promote resilience towards stress and foster feelings of well-being. Caregivers, who often face high stress levels due to their demanding roles, can greatly benefit from this aspect of nutrition.In the same vein, good nutrition can be pivotal in mood regulation. What we eat can impact our brain structure, brain chemistry, and, subsequently, our emotions. Foods rich in certain vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids can help regulate our emotions and reduce the risk of mood disorders. This is significant for everyone, seniors and caregivers alike.Fuel Your Mind and Mood With These FoodsHere are 6 brain-healthy and stress-relieving foods to add to your grocery list:BlueberriesDon't underestimate the power of these tiny fruits! Blueberries are bursting with antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber. These nutrients work together to delay brain aging, improve memory, and protect your brain cells from damage.Dark ChocolateCraving a sweet treat? Look no further than dark chocolate! This delicious indulgence contains flavonoids, caffeine, and antioxidants. These components not only benefit your brain health but also possess mood-boosting properties, making it a great stress reliever in moderation.BroccoliThis versatile vegetable is a powerhouse of nutrients for your brain. Packed with antioxidants and vitamin K, broccoli is believed to support cognitive function and promote brain health.Pumpkin SeedsThese tiny nutritional powerhouses are a fantastic source of brain-friendly nutrients. Pumpkin seeds are rich in antioxidants, magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper. These minerals are essential for maintaining cognitive function and overall well-being.TurmericThis vibrant spice has gained popularity for its numerous health benefits. The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, boasts impressive brain-protective properties. Curcumin can cross the blood-brain barrier and enhance the brain's oxygen intake, keeping you alert and focused.OrangesAs a rich source of vitamin C, oranges are a champion for brain health. Vitamin C plays a vital role in protecting against mental decline and improving overall cognitive function.Adding these brain-boosting and stress-relieving foods to your diet is simple and enjoyable! Explore different ways to incorporate them into your meals and snacks. For instance, sprinkle blueberries and oranges over your morning cereal or yogurt. Enjoy dark chocolate squares in moderation as a delightful treat. Turmeric can be added to soups, stews, or even teas for a subtle flavor boost. Roasted pumpkin seeds are a delicious and healthy snack, and broccoli can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes, from salads to stir-fries. Remember, a balanced diet rich in these power foods nourishes your body, mind, and emotional well-being.Senior Helpers Offers Nutrition Assistance and SupportNutrition is crucial in maintaining our overall health, particularly brain health and emotional stability. By making conscious dietary choices, we can manage our stress levels, enhance cognitive health, and regulate our emotions. Whether you are a senior aiming to boost brain function or a caregiver looking for stress management strategies, incorporating these brain-healthy and stress-relieving foods into your diet can be a game-changer.For those in Overland Park, Olathe, Johnson County, and Prairie Village needing assistance with senior care, a healthy diet, or stress management, contact us at Senior Helpers Overland Park. We proudly provide premium senior care services!
Whether you are just starting out on your caregiving journey or are a ways down the road, its always a good idea to have as many resources at your fingertips as you can.Here are five different ways to gather resources that can support your role as a family caregiver.1. Learn as much as you can about your loved ones condition.Whether its Alzheimers, Parkinsons, cancer, stroke or simply what to expect as someone ages, doing a deep dive into the topic can help you better understand what your loved one is experiencing now and may experience in the future. Tap into resources like the Alzheimers Association, the Parkinsons Foundation, the American Cancer Society, and the American Heart Association, which are all great places to start. 2. Connect to a support group.Caregiving can sometimes be very isolating. You might feel like no one understands what youre going through. And unless someone has been in a similar situation, they probably wont. Learning from and leaning on people in your area who have shared experiences can provide welcomed emotional support and a wealth of knowledge, both of which can help you be the best caregiver you can be.3. Assemble a team.As the person who is probably most knowledgeable about and in closest proximity to your older loved one, you can think of yourself as the captain of the caregiving team. But being the captain doesnt mean you play every position. Key members of the caregiving team include your loved ones primary care physician as well as any specialists like a neurologist or cardiologist, your pharmacist, elder care attorneys, insurance representatives and home care agencies. If other members of the family serve as health care power of attorney or financial power of attorney, they should be recruited to the team as well. 4. Leverage community resources.Until you have a need for a specific type of support, you may not be aware of the many community-based resources there are at your disposal. You can find your local Area Agency on Aging by visiting this website.You can find out about meal delivery services, transportation assistance, nutrition counseling, caregiving and respite programs, and social activities offered in your area.Take advantage of the growing availability of grocery delivery services and prescription delivery services. Lightening your load is key to spending valuable time with your loved one.5. Reference family caregiving guides.SYNERGY HomeCare has a number of great family resource guides available here. Titles include A Memory Care Family Resource Guide, which I wrote for SYNERGY HomeCare, the Family Caregiver Ultimate Guide, Fall Prevention Guide, Returning Home from the Hospital, and Navigating the Cancer Journey. You can also consult my books, A Dementia Caregivers Guide to Care and A Dementia Caregiver Called Action, both available on Amazon.At the end of the day, you have a lot on your plate as a family caregiver. But by taking the time to gather a list of various resources available to you, you can enhance your loved ones quality of life while giving yourself more time to engage with your loved one as a family member, not a caregiver.Dr. Macie P. Smith is a licensed gerontology social worker who is focused on helping families support their aging loved ones through long-term care. Specifically, Dr. Smith educates caregivers on how to care for seniors with dementia. She is an advocate for specialized care and assists others in finding a way to provide a better quality of life for individuals with Alzheimers or dementia. Dr. Smith has dedicated over 22 years of her life working in gerontology and assisting families in finding personalized solutions for dementia care. For more articles by Dr. Macie Smith, go to https://synergyhomecare.com/blog/.___________SYNERGY HomeCare offers no obligation home assessments. Find a location near you or contact us.
This free listing made possible by Seniors BlueBook
Elevating Elegance. Life at a senior living community should encourage exploration, friendship, and joy. That's exactly what you'll find at Claridge Court. We're proud to offer a supremely comfortable and elegant refined retirement lifestyle that embraces the unique culture of Kansas City. Offering independent living, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation, Claridge Court has been providing excellence to the community for over 28 years. Call us today to learn more about our skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. Whether that's for long-term care with managing a chronic illness or short-term care where we help you recover from an injury, surgery, accident, or illness. INDEPENDENT LIVING IN KANSAS CITY, MOAt Claridge Court, you can embrace your zest for life. Explore your interests, connect with new friends, engage in your favorite activities. Continue living a full and purposeful life in community living.Its time to discover (or rediscover) yourself.Whether you want to unleash your inner artist at our art studio, read to your hearts content in our library, or go out on the town as you explore Kansas City with friends, senior independent living can help you truly embrace your new beginning.What is community? Is it the people you call your neighbors? Is it about the spaces you share? Maybe community is more than that. Community is the place where you can experience true freedom, the freedom from worries, from everyday cares, where you are empowered to invest in your future self because you are supported. Yes, community is about reconnecting with yourself and who you were meant to be and doing it by connecting with others.The adventure starts now. Embrace new opportunities to discover (or rediscover) your passions and embark on new experiences. Organize an outing with other residents, volunteer for a local cause that matters to you, or find a social club that piques your interest. Its all right here.Located conveniently at the center of it all, your new home gives you easy access to all your new lifestyle has to offer. Start off the day with a stroll through the gardens, then enjoy a delicious, chef-prepared lunch and relax in your private living space every evening.Home isnt just a place, its a feeling. Its where we love and dream and learn. Its where we go for a sense of comfort, security, and belonging. As our life evolves, so does the meaning of homeand occasionally, we must redefine its meaning.Sometimes, the home we chose years ago no longer serves us, and its time to start a new chapter. As you turn the page to community living, youll discover a unique place of purpose, leisure, inspiration and adventure. Sophisticated accommodations, luxury services, and delightful amenities await. Embrace this new chapter and live life to the fullest with everything you could want at your fingertips.Life isnt just exciting at Claridge Court, its easier. Your linens are always folded just so. Your server knows exactly what the usual looks like for you. Your home is kept in tip-top shape. Transportation for your next appointment is already scheduled. By the end of the day, youll be thinking to yourself, Why didnt I make the move here sooner? Youve carefully cultivated a lifestyle you lovewith access to resort-style amenities and exceptional services, youre able to continue living your life, your way. A single monthly fee, which includes most amenities and services, allows you to fill your cup and simplify your expenses. Its all within reach.Life Care priority accessGet the support you need in the comfort of your communityPet friendlyAll homes are pet-friendlyCar washComplimentary self-service car washOn-call maintenanceAccess to on-call maintenance for emergencies or regular servicesOn-site health servicesTop-tier, nearby health servicesScheduled transportationUtilize transportation to local appointments and shoppingSecurity servicesHave peace of mind with reliable consistent security servicesSalon & barbershopFrom a quick haircut to manicure and pedicure services and more, pamper yourself at our on-site salon and barbershopWellness programmingCollaborate with an expert to create a custom wellness planEveryday utilitiesExpansive utilities including heat/AC, electric, water, and wi-fiMove-in coordinatorEnsure a smooth move with a dedicated team memberParkingConveniently closeby, covered and uncovered parkingWeekly housekeepingConsistent housekeeping and flat linen servicesGuest roomsOvernight guests feel right at home in their own roomsHealth centerOutpatient therapy and long-term specialized care are available at our exclusive, trusted on-site health center if you should need itSomething for Your Unique InterestsTheres something for everyone to enjoy at Claridge Court. From social clubs and group outings to community celebrations and events, there are vast activities available to make every day the perfect day.Delicious dining optionsIndulge in casual or fine dining at two different venues or in a private dining room, whatever your styleGame roomHost the perfect game night in our dedicated game roomAerobics studioGet your groove (and sweat) on at the on-site aerobics studioInviting pubMeet friends for drinks or mingle before a group outing in the pubFitness center and studioWorkout on your own or join regular weekly classes from certified instructors; locker room, towel servicesLibraryCrack open your favorite novel or dive into something new with a vast selection of booksSpacious LoungesEnjoy your leisure time in one of our expansive loungesCard roomFrom bridge to rummy to solitaire to go fish, game night can look however you want it toDiverse programsEnjoy various social, cultural, and educational programs that pique your interestOutdoor spacesExplore beautifully manicured groundsArt studioUnleash your inner artist as you draw, paint, or sculpt on your own or during a class with a visiting artistMovie TheaterThrow a party, watch a movie on the big screen, or partake in group activities
Elevating Elegance. Life at a senior living community should encourage exploration, friendship, and joy. That's exactly what you'll find at Claridge Court. We're proud to offer a supremely comfortable and elegant refined retirement lifestyle that embraces the unique culture of Kansas City. Offering independent living, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation, Claridge Court has been providing excellence to the community for over 28 years. Call us today to learn more about our skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. Whether that's for long-term care with managing a chronic illness or short-term care where we help you recover from an injury, surgery, accident, or illness. Expert Care in a Comfortable AtmosphereFeeling empowered while facing the unexpected comes from knowing youll have the care you need. Access to skilled nursing care at Claridge Court allows you or your loved one to get the expert care and connection needed in a modern, newly renovated setting.Compassionate Care and Peace of MindSkilled nursing care is the highest level of care you can receive outside of a hospital setting. Make the journey to recovery much more comfortable in Claridge Courts inviting atmosphere. Rest assured that if you or a loved one needs expert care or treatment, you can receive it in a state-of-the-art setting from qualified care professionals.SKILLED NURSING AND REHABILITATION SERVICESAttentive, Around-the-Clock SupervisionStaying on top of a debilitating health issue that requires around-the-clock monitoring or aftercare can be overwhelming and challenging. If you or your loved one require extensive support, the right kind of care can make all the difference. Get support from our skilled team of dedicated nurses and other professionals, who can administer various types of care in a private or semi-private room. At Your Service On-site, senior healthcare physician and specialist 24-hour care from registered nurses and certified nursing assistants Dietitian for nutritional advice and planning Social workers to assist with care coordination Activities coordinator and programs to nurture passions and purpose Physical, occupational, and speech therapists Laundry services and housekeeping Regular pet interaction therapy Finding Connection and PurposeSkilled nursing stays may be short- or long-term. With regular activities supported by our team members (where appropriate), you can continue living a meaningful and connected life no matter how long you stay.More amenities to explore:Full program of activities and eventsSensory gardenBeauty salonTV loungeRestaurant-style dining with chef prepared mealsPrivate dining, with special-occasion cateringOn-site chaplain available upon requestRegular pet interaction therapyPrivate family roomDaily housekeeping Specialized Wound Care If you or a loved one have a health scare or traumatic injury that results in the need for specialized wound care, knowing where to turn can give you priceless peace of mind. Our skilled nursing residents can trust that they will receive top-tier healthcare from Dr. Jesse Lopez, a seasoned, board-certified general and trauma surgeon of almost 30 years.From health-related wounds like ulcers to complex traumatic injuries and more, Dr. Lopez has the expertiseand compassionto help on your journey to recovery. While wound care best practices and technologies continually change, the fundamental principle of you-centered, empathetic care is our foundation. At Claridge Court, you can expect to receive top-tier wound care services through our well-rounded treatment protocol, which includes:Assistance from certified wound care physician, Dr. LopezTreatments for advanced and complex wound care casesDesignated wound care nursesPersonalized wound care plansVisits through our partnership with American Wound Care Centers When is skilled nursing care appropriate? Short- or long-term skilled nursing care administered by trained professionals may be necessary after an illness or injury. Some instances that may require skilled care may include:DiabetesFall-related injuryHip or bone fractureStrokeOrthopedic surgeryCardiac failureChronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)Congestive heart failureParkinsons disease SKILLED NURSING AND MOREMore Care OptionsIn addition to skilled nursing, if you or a loved one experiences an injury or illness that requires rehabilitative care, rest assured that we can support you too! Rehabilitative care is available to independent living and skilled nursing residents or those who need it.