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Five Benefits
of Assisted Living for Seniors
As we age, it can become
more and more challenging to maintain independence. Simple tasks we once took
for granted, like cooking and cleaning, can become obstacles. Add a few
physical challenges, like arthritis or difficulty showering, and things can seem
insurmountable. That's where assisted living comes in. Assisted living
is designed specifically for seniors who need help with activities of daily
living. It is also a situation where social engagement becomes possible and
easy. If you are considering assisted living for yourself or a loved one, here
are five benefits to keep in mind:
1. 24/7 Access to
Caregivers
One of
the most significant benefits of assisted living is that there is always
someone on staff who can help when needed. Whether it helps with daily living
or is simply someone to talk to, caregivers are always available to residents.
This can be a massive relief for seniors and their families, who can rest
assured knowing that help is always nearby.
2/ A Sense of Community
An
excellent component of assisted living is the sense of community that it can
provide. Residents have the opportunity to socialize and form relationships
with their neighbors. This can help combat feelings of loneliness and isolation
seniors often experience while living alone. Many assisted living communities
offer activities and amenities that encourage socialization, such as game
nights, fitness classes, and group outings.
3. Increased Safety and
Security
Assisted living communities are designed
with safety and security in mind. Everything is in place, from security cameras
to emergency call buttons, to ensure that residents are safe at all times. This
added layer of protection can be a massive relief for seniors and their families.
4. Maintenance-Free
Living
One of
the best things about assisted living is that it frees residents from worrying
about tasks like cooking, cleaning, and yard work. This allows them to focus on
things they enjoy, such as pursuing hobbies and interests or spending time with
family and friends. In addition, many assisted living communities offer
housekeeping and laundry services so that residents don't have to lift a finger
if they don't want to.
5. A Continuum of Care
If
care needs change over time, many assisted living communities offer a continuum
of care to receive the level of care they need without having to move
locations. This can include everything from memory support apartments to
skilled nursing care. Having this option available can give both seniors and
their families peace of mind knowing that they won't have to go through the
stress of moving if their needs change in the future.
Finding
the best senior living setting for your loved one can be an overwhelming task,
but you don’t have to go through it alone. The expert advisors at the Senior
Care Authority are here to help!
We offer various services designed to help seniors live their best life possible. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you and your family.
Do you have a loved one living in an assisted living facility? Assisted living facilities are residences designed for people who are independent but need some help with daily activities. These facilities can be freestanding communities, part of a retirement community or integrated within nursing homes or hospitals.Assisted living maximizes the dignity and independence of residents while also providing 24-hour supervision. In addition to housing, which can range from a private or shared bedroom to a full apartment, assisted living facilities generally provide meals, housekeeping, transportation, security and activities for residents for a set monthly cost. In addition to monthly costs, personal care services may be provided at an additional charge. Such personal care services could include laundry, medication reminders, or assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, and ambulating/transferring.While people in assisted living dont require skilled nursing around the clock, they do need help with activities of daily living (ADLs). Depending on the facility and its staffing ratios, your loved one may need additional one-on-one care to complement the care provided by the facility staff. In addition to always being ready to help with ADLs, SYNERGY HomeCares assisted living home care services can provide more regular supervision and companionship as well as encourage your loved one to eat meals or participate in activities.This added layer of support for your loved one living in an assisted living facility can provide you with peace of mind, as well as help reduce the anxiety and agitation your loved one may experience in a new environment.If youre interested in supplemental caregiving, begin by consulting the facilitys administration to understand what services they cover and where a professional caregiver can add the most value. SYNERGY HomeCares assisted living home care services ensure that the caregiver, while working at the facility, will report directly to the loved ones family who contracted their care.In my opinion, this offers the best of both worlds: a safe and secure living situation with the added support of a personalized 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. If you have any questions, please call us at 720-204-5788.
Needs and priorities change as people age, and living independently at home may no longer be the best option for seniors. Determining when to make the move to senior living, such as an assisted living community, can be challenging due to factors such as emotional attachment to the home, financial considerations, and concerns about losing independence.Since the decision can be deeply personal for seniors and their families, here are some signs to consider.Difficulty Managing Daily ActivitiesActivities of Daily Living (ADLs) like bathing, dressing, cooking, cleaning, and taking medications can be one of the clearest indicators of a seniors ability to maintain independence.If you or your loved one struggles to complete these tasks independently, consider senior living, where help is readily available. The trained staff there help with ADLs, allowing residents to enjoy a better quality of life.Health Concerns and Safety IssuesChronic conditions, mobility issues, and memory loss can all contribute to an unsafe living environment. This can result in frequent falls, difficulty moving around the house, or forgetting to take medications. These are serious red flags, especially if seniors live alone for a significant part of the day.Senior living, such as an assisted living community, is designed with seniors safety in mind, offering features such as grab bars, emergency call systems, and round-the-clock medical support. This environment can provide peace of mind, knowing that help is always nearby.Feelings of Isolation and LonelinessFactors like the loss of a spouse or friend and the inability to drive can make it difficult for seniors to maintain social ties. Loneliness can lead to depression and other mental health issues, which in turn can affect physical health. Senior living offers a built-in social network with opportunities to engage in activities and events. These interactions can improve mood and well-being, making life more enjoyable and fulfilling.Caregiver BurnoutFamily members often step in to help aging loved ones, but caregiving can be demanding and stressful. Over time, caregivers can experience burnout, leading to physical and emotional exhaustion. If youre a caregiver feeling overwhelmed, or if your loved one needs more care than you can provide, it might be time to explore the benefits of senior living.Home Maintenance Becomes OverwhelmingMaintaining a home can be exhausting as physical abilities decline. Tasks like mowing the lawn, shoveling snow, cleaning gutters, and keeping up with repairs can become overwhelming and even dangerous for seniors. The staff handles all maintenance in an assisted living community, allowing residents to enjoy a leisurely lifestyle. This means no more worrying about unexpected repairs or seasonal upkeep.Financial ConsiderationsOwning and maintaining a home can be expensive, especially when factoring in property taxes, utilities, repairs, and ongoing maintenance. In some cases, the cost of staying at home can outweigh the benefits, particularly if additional in-home care services are required. Transitioning to an assisted living community can provide a more predictable and often more affordable solution, with various levels of care included in the cost.Ready to explore senior living that feels like home? Our team at The Oberon House in Arvada, CO, is here to provide you with all the care and community you need. Contact us to discuss your options and see how we can help 303-420-7258.
Harmony Mental Health Assisted Living Program Named 2024 Recipient of LeadingAges Program Innovation Annual Achievement AwardFramingham, MA (October 10, 2024) Mary Ann Morse at Heritage Assisted Living is proud to announce that its Harmony Mental Health Program has been named the recipient of the LeadingAge 2024 Program Innovation Annual Achievement Award. This distinction honors groundbreaking programs that transform aging services through creative, innovative approaches.The award was presented at the LeadingAge 70th Annual Meeting of Membership on October 9, 2024, at the College of the Holy Cross. Lisa Kubiak, President & CEO of Mary Ann Morse Healthcare Corp., and Brian Kelly, Executive Director of Mary Ann Morse at Heritage, accepted the award on behalf of the organization."Receiving this award is an incredible honor that underscores our dedication to providing compassionate, specialized care for aging adults facing mental health challenges," said Kubiak. "The Harmony Program began as a separate, secured community and has evolved - thanks to the vision, hard work, and commitment of our team - into an integrated, supportive environment. Its a model that reflects our belief in the power of a holistic approach to care, allowing our residents to transition and thrive within a safe, nurturing community."The Harmony Mental Health Program has been recognized for its groundbreaking approach in meeting the distinct mental health needs of older adults, including those facing conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Acknowledging the increasing demand for comprehensive mental health services, the program offers an innovative alternative to traditional assisted living by providing a transitional, step-down option for seniors requiring specialized mental health support following psychiatric hospitalization."I believe our comprehensive approach fills a crucial gap in mental health care by combining therapeutic support, social integration, and residential comfort, adds Chet Olson, Harmony Program Director. Our goal is to enhance residents' mental wellness, foster social skills, and support their journey towards greater independence, ultimately preparing them for transitions back to traditional assisted living or home settings whenever possible."Located on the eight-acre campus of Mary Ann Morse at Heritage, alongside traditional and memory care assisted living programs, the Harmony program fosters a nurturing, non-institutional environment. It prioritizes individualized care and psycho-social support, empowering residents to live fulfilling lives within a compassionate community setting, where their mental and emotional well-being is the focus. Residents receive assistance from partnering clinicians and other health professionals, including McLean Hospital-affiliated psychiatrists, care managers, therapists, a social worker, and a dedicated nurse practitioner.About Mary Ann Morse Healthcare Corp. Mary Ann Morse Healthcare, a nonprofit organization, offers a continuum of senior living and healthcare services and has been a trusted community resource for over 30 years within the MetroWest region. Mary Ann Morse at Heritage provides traditional, memory care, and mental health assisted living programs for todays seniors. Mary Ann Morse Healthcare Center offers short-term outpatient and inpatient rehabilitation, as well as long-term care, including memory, respite, and hospice care. Mary Ann Morse Home Care provides 24/7 Medicare-certified home health and personal in-home care. As a nonprofit, we are deeply committed to our mission of helping seniors live their best lives and embrace healthy aging, no matter where they are on lifes journey. www.maryannmorse.orgAbout LeadingAge MassachusettsLeadingAge Massachusetts is dedicated to expanding the world of possibilities for aging. Together with its national partner, LeadingAge, it provides tools, resources, and knowledge to support members in overcoming day-to-day challenges while encouraging strategic thinking for the future. The organization represents the full spectrum of not-for-profit aging services providers across the state, championing mission-driven organizations that are integral to their communities. Its members are collaborative, respected, and forward-thinking, committed to meeting the needs of older adults. LeadingAge Massachusetts serves as the trusted and influential voice in the field of aging services. For more information, visit www.leadingagema.org. For more information on the Harmony program, please visit www.maryannmorse.org or contact Chet Olson, Program Director, 508-665-5329, colson@maryannmorse.org
Senior Care Authority is a senior care consulting firm that helps families find the right care for their loved ones in the Pittsburgh area. Their team of Certified Senior Advisors (CSAs) are experts in senior care and can help you navigate the complex healthcare system, understand your options, and make informed decisions. Senior Care Authority is committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to their clients. FINDING SENIOR LIVING OPTIONSMaking the right care decision for your loved one can be a daunting task. There are so many options; the terminology is often unfamiliar and the terrain unknown. Senior Care Authority of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania will streamline the process to make it easier for you to make informed choices and reduce the stress and pressure associated with such important decisions.Our team of Certified Senior Advisors carefully inspects locations from mid-to-larger size communities as well as smaller, residential care homes. We meet the staff, residents, family members when possible. State reports are reviewed to advise you of any citations or complaints issued against a particular provider. We have comprehensive knowledge and experience with all facets of senior living, from Independent Living to Assisted Living, to Memory Care and Skilled Nursing.Your Advisor will meet with you in person to discuss your options and then accompany you on visits to places that meet your criteria. We ensure that all your questions are answered, and assist with paperwork and negotiations. The hallmark of our service commitment is that we are by your side every step of the way.We are paid a referral fee by the communities and care homes so there is no cost to you for our placement services. In the rare case where we are not contracted with a community, your Advisor will let you know at the outset and explain any fees that might be incurred, should you choose that location. You can expect total transparency from us and we respect your right to choice.ELDERCARE CONSULTINGSometimes our families need help with challenging transitions, endless decision-making and navigating a complex healthcare system. This can include facilitating essential conversations between family members, locating a skilled nursing facility, home care agency or caregiver selection, long distance caregiving, finding the right resources and learning how to access them, or regular visits to your loved one, providing you with "peace of mind" when you are unable to visit. It can be comforting to have someone partner with you who is outside the emotional landscape of the family: doing research, talking to providers, organizing paperwork, or finding those "needle in a haystack" resources a go-to person you can turn to when things get overwhelming. No care plan is cookie cutter. We customize our services for your family. We are your advocates on this often difficult journey and help you track the endless details.There is no cost for an initial consultation. You and your Advisor can get to know each other and decide if working together is a good fit to meet your needs.ADVOCACYAn advocate can be a good friend to have on your side, especially when things get complicated. When navigating the healthcare system, sometimes there is so much information being offered that it is nearly impossible to hold it alone and sort out what you have been told. As your advocate and coach, we do our best to ensure that everyone understands the information being dispensed and that your questions are answered appropriately.FAMILY COACHINGA third party who is outside of the emotional landscape of the family during tough decision-making can be a great benefit. Each family has its own dynamic and a coach can help make sure everyone is heard and seen, and that everyone is treated fairly, even if you dont all agree. Your coach can help your family find consensus or at least encourage everyones point of view to be voiced and listened to calmly. We are not therapists. We are trained to empower families to move forward with whatever process is most beneficial. Initial consultations are always offered at no charge.Kathy Thompson is the owner of Senior Care Authority for the Pittsburgh area of Allegheny and Westmoreland counties. She became a Certified Senior Advisor to help families and seniors navigate the broad, confusing, and stressful decisions regarding senior living options. From her mothers fight with cancer, she has learned that life can change instantly. Her mission is to help families get the necessary resources and information they need in a timely fashion to be able to make the best educated decision for their elder parent or loved ones.Kathy understands that choosing the right senior care is a difficult decision, and she is here to help you every step of the way. Contact her for an initial consultation and see how she can make a difference for the senior in your life.
Senior Care Authority is a senior care consulting firm that helps families find the right care for their loved ones in the North Pittsburgh area. Their team of Certified Senior Advisors (CSAs) are experts in senior care and can help you navigate the complex healthcare system, understand your options, and make informed decisions. Senior Care Authority is committed to providing compassionate and personalized care to their clients. FINDING SENIOR LIVING OPTIONSMaking the right care decision for your loved one can be a daunting task. There are so many options; the terminology is often unfamiliar and the terrain unknown. Senior Care Authority of North Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania will streamline the process to make it easier for you to make informed choices and reduce the stress and pressure associated with such important decisions.Our team of Certified Senior Advisors carefully inspects locations from mid-to-larger size communities as well as smaller, residential care homes. We meet the staff, residents, family members when possible. State reports are reviewed to advise you of any citations or complaints issued against a particular provider. We have comprehensive knowledge and experience with all facets of senior living, from Independent Living to Personal Care and Assisted Living, to Memory Care and Skilled Nursing.Your Advisor will meet with you in person to discuss your options and then accompany you on visits to places that meet your criteria. We ensure that all your questions are answered and assist with paperwork and negotiations. The hallmark of our service commitment is that we are by your side every step of the way.We are paid a referral fee by the communities and care homes so there is no cost to you for our placement services. In the rare case where we are not contracted with a community, your Advisor will let you know at the outset and explain any fees that might be incurred, should you choose that location. You can expect total transparency from us and we respect your right to choice.ELDERCARE CONSULTINGSometimes our families need help with challenging transitions, endless decision-making and navigating a complex healthcare system. This can include facilitating essential conversations between family members, locating a skilled nursing facility, home care agency or caregiver selection, long distance caregiving, finding the right resources and learning how to access them, or regular visits to your loved one, providing you with "peace of mind" when you are unable to visit. It can be comforting to have someone partner with you who is outside the emotional landscape of the family: doing research, talking to providers, organizing paperwork, or finding those "needle in a haystack" resources a go-to person you can turn to when things get overwhelming. No care plan is cookie cutter. We customize our services for your family. We are your advocates on this often difficult journey and help you track the endless details.There is no cost for an initial consultation. You and your Advisor can get to know each other and decide if working together is a good fit to meet your needs.ADVOCACYAn advocate can be a good friend to have on your side, especially when things get complicated. When navigating the healthcare system, sometimes there is so much information being offered that it is nearly impossible to hold it alone and sort out what you have been told. As your advocate and coach, we do our best to ensure that everyone understands the information being dispensed and that your questions are answered appropriately.FAMILY COACHINGA third party who is outside of the emotional landscape of the family during tough decision-making can be a great benefit. Each family has its own dynamic and a coach can help make sure everyone is heard and seen, and that everyone is treated fairly, even if you dont all agree. Your coach can help your family find consensus or at least encourage everyones point of view to be voiced and listened to calmly. We are not therapists. We are trained to empower families to move forward with whatever process is most beneficial. Initial consultations are always offered at no charge.Cara Lapic is a dedicated, highly motivated professional who loves finding solutions to challenges. She has spent almost thirty years in the corporate and academic world doing just that.During her tenure in the corporate world, life changed drastically - her father passed, her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimers and she became a guardian to her sister, while at the same time dealing with a serious health issue herself. While learning to navigate the complex web of support services for her own family, she noticed her growing empathy for others needing to walk down the same road. Why not help them in their journey to make life as fulfilling as possible for their loved ones? She thought of no better way to move forward with her next chapter of work and giving back. She found Senior Care Authority could fulfill this desire for her.Caras education includes a BA in Business Administration, MS in Information Systems Management and a Doctorate in Information Systems and Communication. She has had robust training in Senior Care and has earned important certifications as a Certified Senior Advisor and Certified Dementia Practitioner. She has a national team of professionals to support her as she helps you navigate your options for your loved one. Cara is anxious to put her experience and training as a new owner of Senior Care Authority to work for you and your family today! She cant wait to meet you! Contact her for an initial consultation and see how she can make a difference for the senior in your life.