HOW RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES KEEP YOU SAFE

Author

Freedom Village of Bradenton

Posted on

Mar 16, 2023

share-this
Share This

Are senior living communities safe to live in? This question is often asked when considering residential options for oneself or a loved one. While senior living provides many lifestyle advantages, safety and security are among the most important.Retirement communities want their residents to live with maximum freedom and independence, and protecting personal safety is a big part of this. This is as true for residents who live independently as it is for those who need assistance caring for themselves because of memory loss or other health conditions. State and national guidelines, such as building and fire codes, govern how retirement communities provide safety for residents, and individual communities also set their own rules. Balancing the need for senior safety with a resident’s sense of freedom and personhood is where Freedom Village of Bradenton excels.


Six Ways Retirement Communities Provide Senior Safety  

Certain concerns affect seniors more than the general population. That’s why, although many older adults wish to stay at home as they age, it may no longer be a wise or practical choice. Residences and shared spaces in a retirement community are purposefully designed for senior living safety. Specialized features, services and health care are how retirement communities provide safety and peace of mind.

1. Wandering

Residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia are most at risk for wandering and becoming lost. A Life Plan Community offering memory care services will assess the individual risk of a person with cognitive impairment and plan personalized care according to their abilities. A memory care neighborhood may use different methods to prevent wandering. There may be cameras and security at entrances and exits, and security codes for elevator use. Memory care staff also monitor shared areas and homes to make sure residents are where they’re supposed to be. A high-risk resident may also wear an alert necklace or bracelet that activates an alarm if they go out of bounds.

2. Infections

Even before the coronavirus pandemic, infection control measures were a critical feature of how retirement communities provide safety for the people who live and work there. At Freedom Village of Bradenton, hygiene drills, hand-washing, disinfectant use and cleaning protocols have always been part of our standard procedure. While senior living communities have adopted federal- and state-mandated guidelines for mask-wearing and PPE use, wellness monitoring and temperature readings are also used to keep tabs on the spread of illness. Communities also provide education and resources to educate residents and their families about the importance of vaccinations against easily spread diseases such as the flu and pneumonia. Nowadays, team members may also encourage virtual visits rather than in-person visits from family members if there’s an illness on either side.

3. Falls

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls are among the leading causes of injuries for adults ages 65 and older. Senior living communities reduce the risk of a fall, beginning with a comprehensive physical assessment of the individual. Health conditions such as low blood pressure, Parkinson’s or arthritis can increase fall risk, so medications are monitored and adjusted to minimize effects like dizziness or drowsiness. Most falls happen near the bed or in the bathroom, and communities mitigate this with assistance when a resident needs it, even at night. Our team members are trained in techniques to help older adults with transfers, walking and other activities. Our Life Plan Community also offers rehabilitation and physical and occupational therapies to improve walking, balance and strength. Learn more about reducing fall risk.

4. At-Home Safety

Most suburban homes were built for families, not for older adults who may be living on their own. They are usually multilevel homes with stairs and lack wide hallways and doorways. The bathrooms usually feature a tub instead of a no-step-entry shower, and kitchens may not be well lit or have appliances with easily manageable electric controls. Fitting a home with senior-friendly modifications — grab bars in a bathroom, nonslip floors, handrails on stairs, etc. — is costly and expensive. These built-in modifications are how retirement communities provide safety for residents in everyday living spaces. Staff members are also vigilant in monitoring and removing tripping hazards. Residents in community care settings may also have the benefit of a raised or motorized bed that makes it easier to get in and out.

5. Nutrition

Seniors have unique nutritional needs. Preparing specialized meals in a home kitchen may no longer be safe for a senior if their physical and/or mental abilities are impaired. Senior living communities provide access to specialized diets and nutritionist-approved meals for high cholesterol, diabetes and more. They also arrange supervised fitness classes, physical therapy, and safe and supervised exercise programs to improve cognitive function and enhance health.

6. Emergency Preparedness

Family members with an older loved one living alone at home worry about what will happen to their loved one in an emergency. Emergency preparedness is part and parcel of how retirement communities provide safety for residents. There are protocols in place in case of fire, power outage or a natural disaster that outline how communities communicate with concerned family members and protect the safety of residents and staff members. Many communities provide 24/7 security, and most will offer an emergency call system or wearable alert devices to summon immediate help.

Other Articles You May Like

What If Your Senior Client Owns a Luxury Home?

For professionals serving seniors, a home can sometimes be the biggest piece of the transition puzzle.But what happens when that home isn't an ordinary property?What if your client owns a $1 million, $2 million or multimillion-dollar luxury or waterfront home?A senior may be downsizing, transitioning to independent or assisted living, moving closer to family, settling an estate, or simply deciding that maintaining a large property no longer makes sense.For senior living professionals, elder law attorneys, estate planners, financial advisors, care managers, move managers and other professionals helping with that transition, there is an important option worth knowing about:The homeowner may be able to sell a luxury property privately and directly, without first putting it on the public market.Why Can Selling a Senior's Luxury Home Be Different?Luxury and waterfront properties can present challenges that aren't always present in a typical home sale.The property may be a waterfront estate on Casey Key, a residence on Bird Key, a condominium overlooking Sarasota Bay, or a distinctive home on Siesta Key or Longboat Key.The owner may have lived there for decades.The home may contain valuable possessions, artwork and deeply personal belongings. It may need updating. Adult children may live hundreds of miles away. And the family may already be coordinating a significant life transition.For some homeowners, maximum exposure to the real estate market is the priority. In that situation, publicly marketing the property may make sense.But other seniors have very different priorities:Privacy. Simplicity. Certainty. Flexibility.They may not want strangers repeatedly touring their home.They may not want photographs of their home's interior and possessions published online.They may not want to renovate, stage or prepare the property for the luxury market.And they may not want their move dependent upon months of marketing, inspections and a buyer obtaining financing.For those homeowners, a private direct sale may be another option worth considering.Can a Senior Sell a Luxury Home Without Publicly Listing It?Yes.A luxury homeowner can explore a direct sale without first broadly marketing the property.Private Luxury Home Sales considers select luxury, waterfront and distinctive properties throughout Sarasota and Florida's Gulf Coast for direct purchase. A homeowner can request a confidential property review before deciding whether a private sale or broader market exposure better fits their objectives.This can allow an owner to explore an offer without first going through the traditional process of preparing and publicly marketing the property.Why Might Privacy Matter to an Older Luxury Homeowner?For some affluent seniors, privacy isn't simply a preference.It can be an important part of the selling decision.Imagine a homeowner who has spent 25 or 30 years in the same waterfront residence.Inside may be family photographs, artwork, collections, jewelry, antiques and other personal possessions.A traditional luxury marketing campaign can involve professional photography, video, aerial photography, online advertising and numerous people entering the property.Some homeowners are completely comfortable with that exposure.Others aren't.A private direct sale provides another route. When Private Luxury Home Sales evaluates a property for potential direct purchase, broad public marketing isn't necessary merely to consider the home. For a senior who values discretion, that difference can matter.Does the Luxury Home Need to Be Renovated First?Not necessarily.One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding high-value real estate is that every luxury property must be extensively updated before it can be sold.A longtime owner may have an exceptional property in an exceptional location while the kitchen, bathrooms, flooring or other features are dated.Preparing that property for the retail luxury market could potentially involve substantial renovations, contractors, staging and months of work.A direct buyer evaluates the property differently.Private Luxury Home Sales considers properties as-is, including residences requiring updates or significant renovation. That can be particularly relevant when an older homeowner or the homeowner's family doesn't want to oversee a major renovation before selling.Which Senior Clients Might Benefit From Knowing About This Option?You don't need to determine whether a private sale is right for your client.You simply need to recognize situations where having another option could be valuable.Consider the homeowner who is:Downsizing from a large luxury residence. Transitioning into independent or assisted living. Moving closer to adult children. Managing a home after the death of a spouse. Selling an inherited luxury or waterfront property. Handling a property through an estate or trust. Living out of state while responsible for a parent's Florida property. Facing substantial deferred maintenance or renovation. Concerned about privacy and public exposure. Looking for greater certainty about the timing of the sale. Those are situations where understanding both the public-market and private-sale alternatives can help a family make a more informed decision.What's the Most Important Question to Ask Your Client?There is one question professionals can ask that may reveal a great deal:What matters most to you when the home is sold?Listen carefully to the answer.Is it achieving maximum exposure to the marketplace?Maintaining privacy?Avoiding repairs?Controlling the closing date?Avoiding repeated showings?Reducing uncertainty?Making the transition as simple as possible?There isn't one correct answer.The homeowner's priorities should help determine which selling strategy deserves consideration.Private Sale vs. Traditional Luxury ListingA private direct sale and a traditional luxury listing serve different objectives.Traditional public marketing provides broader exposure to potential buyers and may create greater price discovery and competition.A private direct sale can emphasize privacy, simplicity, convenience, an as-is transaction and greater certainty about the process.Neither approach should automatically be assumed to be right for every senior homeowner.The value to your client comes from understanding that there is more than one option.One More Resource for Your Professional ToolboxProfessionals serving seniors don't need to become real estate experts.But they are frequently the first people to recognize a problem.A senior living advisor may hear:Mom is ready to move, but we don't know what to do with the house.An elder law attorney may be helping a family deal with an estate containing a multimillion-dollar residence.A move manager may discover that preparing a 4,000-square-foot waterfront home for the market is becoming overwhelming.A financial advisor may have a client whose largest single asset is a luxury property.Knowing that a confidential direct-sale option exists gives you another resource to share with the family.Private Luxury Home Sales specializes in select luxury, waterfront and distinctive properties throughout Sarasota and Florida's Gulf Coast. Its Seniors Blue Book profile specifically includes waterfront estates, Gulf and bayfront homes, boating properties, inherited luxury homes, second homes and properties requiring substantial updating. When You Encounter the Right ClientIf you're working with a senior or family who owns a luxury or waterfront property, consider asking one additional question:Would they like to understand their private-sale option before deciding how to sell the property?There is no obligation to accept an offer simply because the property is evaluated.Sometimes the homeowner will determine that traditional market exposure is the better choice.Sometimes privacy, simplicity and certainty will matter more.Either way, knowing the options before making the decision is valuable.Private Luxury Home SalesSarasota & Florida Gulf CoastPrivate Direct As-Is Close on Your Timeline For more information, please contact Jeff Nemeth at 941-202-6957

When Going Home Isnt the Next Step: Guide for Monmouth & Ocean Cty

When Going Home Isnt the Next Step: A Guide for Monmouth & Ocean County FamiliesWhen an older loved one needs more support, families in Monmouth and Ocean Counties often find themselves navigating unfamiliar territory. A hospital discharge may lead to rehabilitation. A fall may reveal that living alone is no longer safe. Or a family caregiver may realize that managing medications, meals, personal care, and medical appointments has become too much to handle alone.The good news is that senior care isn't one-size-fits-all. Depending on a person's needs, there are options ranging from short-term rehabilitation to assisted living and long-term skilled nursing care.For families across the Jersey Shore, Complete Care provides a continuum of senior care services through multiple communities in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, including locations in Holmdel, Long Branch, Ocean Grove, Wall, Shrewsbury, Toms River, and Brick.Understanding the Right Level of CareOne of the most important steps in choosing senior care is understanding what type of support a loved one actually needs.Post-Acute RehabilitationAfter a hospitalization, surgery, stroke, illness, or injury, an older adult may not be ready to return home immediately. Post-acute rehabilitation provides a bridge between the hospital and home, helping individuals regain strength, mobility, and independence.Depending on the location and individual needs, Complete Care provides physical, occupational, and speech therapy along with nursing and clinical support.For families in Toms River, Brick, Wall, and surrounding communities, having rehabilitation options nearby can make it easier for family members to remain involved during recovery.Skilled NursingSome individuals need more than therapy. Skilled nursing may be appropriate for people who require ongoing medical monitoring, wound care, medication management, chronic disease management, or other specialized clinical services.Complete Care communities offer a variety of clinical programs, with services differing by location. These may include orthopedic and postsurgical care, cardiac care, wound care, neurological and stroke care, pulmonary care, and memory care.When comparing skilled nursing communities, families should ask specifically about the clinical services available at each location.Assisted LivingAssisted living can be a good option for older adults who need help with daily activities but still want to maintain as much independence as possible.Support may include assistance with bathing, dressing, medications, meals, and other everyday routines, along with opportunities for social engagement and activities.For families in Holmdel, Middletown, Red Bank, Freehold, and neighboring Monmouth County communities, assisted living can offer an alternative to managing increasing care needs at home.Long-Term CareFor some seniors, rehabilitation is only one step in a longer care journey. Chronic illness, cognitive impairment, disability, or increasing difficulty with daily activities may eventually require ongoing nursing support.Long-term care provides assistance around the clock while also addressing the social and emotional needs that contribute to quality of life.A Local Presence MattersFor families choosing senior care, location can be an important consideration.Being close to home makes it easier for spouses, children, grandchildren, and friends to visit regularly and remain involved in care. That's particularly meaningful in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, where families may live in neighboring communities but still want their loved one to remain close to their established support system.Complete Care has a broad local presence, with communities serving residents throughout the region. Its Monmouth County locations include communities in Holmdel, Long Branch, Ocean Grove, Wall Township, and Shrewsbury. Ocean County options include multiple communities in Toms River and Brick Township.Because services vary by location, families should contact the individual community to determine which level of care and specialized programs are available.What Should Families Look For?Whether you're looking for assisted living in Monmouth County, skilled nursing in Ocean County, or rehabilitation following a hospital stay, consider more than just the building.Ask: What level of care does my loved one need today? What happens if their needs change? What rehabilitation and therapy services are available? Does the community offer specialized clinical care? How involved can family members be in the care plan? What activities and social opportunities are available? How close is the community to family? And whenever possible, visit in person.Notice how staff interact with residents. Ask questions. Talk with the admissions and care teams. Pay attention to whether residents appear engaged and comfortable.These observations can help families understand what daily life may actually feel like for their loved one.Planning Before a CrisisMany families begin researching senior care only after a crisisa fall, hospitalization, diagnosis, or caregiver burnout.Planning ahead can provide more choices and less pressure.Even if your loved one isn't ready for assisted living or long-term care today, learning about senior care communities in Monmouth and Ocean Counties can help your family understand what resources are available if circumstances change.Having these conversations early also gives older adults an opportunity to participate in decisions about their own future.Complete Care in Monmouth & Ocean CountiesFor families looking for assisted living, post-acute rehabilitation, skilled nursing, or long-term care in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, Complete Care offers multiple local communities and a range of care services.The right choice will depend on your loved one's medical needs, level of independence, preferences, and family circumstances. Taking the time to understand those needsand exploring local options before a crisis occurscan make the process easier for everyone.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat types of care does Complete Care provide?Complete Care offers assisted living, post-acute rehabilitation, skilled nursing, and long-term care. Specific services and clinical programs vary by location.Where does Complete Care serve Monmouth County?Complete Care has communities in areas including Holmdel, Long Branch, Ocean Grove, Wall Township, and Shrewsbury.Where does Complete Care serve Ocean County?Complete Care has multiple communities in Toms River and Brick Township, among other nearby locations.What is post-acute rehabilitation?Post-acute rehabilitation helps individuals recover after hospitalization, surgery, illness, or injury. Therapy and nursing services are designed to help patients regain function and return home safely when possible.If you're researching senior care options in Monmouth or Ocean County, NJ, visit Complete Care's Seniors Blue Book listing for more information about available services and local care options.  

When to Consider Knee Replacement Surgery

Life can take you anywhere until knee arthritis pain slows you down. Whether its walking, golfing, traveling, or playing with your grandkids, the activities you love shouldnt be limited by chronic knee pain. So, whats the solution?For many, knee replacement surgery is an effective option to reduce pain from arthritis and continue to live an active life. The great news is that there are several different types of knee replacement surgery, as well as advanced surgical techniques that can even speed up your healing.Whether you're just beginning to explore treatment options or preparing for surgery, our board-certified orthopedic surgeons at AdventHealth can help you understand the different types of knee replacement procedures and what to expect throughout your recovery journey.Who Needs Knee Replacement SurgeryThe leading cause of knee replacement surgery is osteoarthritis, a degenerative condition that gradually wears down the cartilage in the knee joint. As the damage progresses, pain and stiffness can worsen over time, making everyday activities increasingly difficult.Common symptoms of knee osteoarthritis include:Gradual knee pain that worsens with activityKnee stiffnessKnee swellingPain after extended sitting or restingKnee pain that continues to get worseIf you have osteoarthritis, your doctor will start by offering the most conservative treatments to alleviate your pain.Some initial treatments for knee osteoarthritis might include:Weight lossPhysical therapyAnti-inflammatory medicationsCortisone injectionsViscosupplementation or gel injectionsIf these strategies are not helpful and your condition worsens, your doctor might offer knee replacement surgery as a promising option to reduce pain and return to the active life you love again.Types of Knee Replacement SurgeryNot every knee replacement is the same. While a total knee replacement restores the entire joint with an artificial implant, some patients may qualify for a partial knee replacement, which replaces only the damaged portion of the knee and preserves more of the natural joint.What to Expect Before Knee Replacement SurgeryOnce you and your surgeon have worked together to decide the right treatment plan for you, youll likely need to make an appointment with your primary care doctor to assess your general health and clear you for surgery. You may also need an evaluation and clearance from your dentist.Once this step is completed, youll be able to schedule your knee replacement surgery appointment. You may also need a CT scan of your knee so your surgeon can more precisely customize your replacement to most naturally fit your knee anatomy and movement.In preparation, make sure you have someone who can take you to your surgery appointment and be there as your caregiver after the procedure. This person will be able to drive you home, get any prescribed medications and help maintain your comfort after surgery.Your medical team might also advise you to stop taking certain medications (such as blood thinners, NSAIDs like aspirin or other supplements) up to a week before your surgery date. Youll also be advised to fast prior to surgery. In most cases, you cant have anything to eat or drink (including water) after midnight on the night before your surgery.Some other ways to prepare your home ahead of time include:Setting up your comfortable space for resting and elevating your legClearing the floor and pathways of fall and trip risks such as rugsHaving ice packs frozen and ready for when you return homeWhat to Expect During Knee Replacement SurgeryYour exact recovery will depend on exactly what type of procedure you are having as well as your overall health. Some patients may have outpatient knee replacement surgery and go home the same day. This is especially true for minimally invasive surgical procedures. Other knee replacement procedures may require you to stay in the hospital from one to four days.On the day of surgery, you'll be prepped for the procedure and given anesthesia. Most knee replacement surgeries take about one to two hours to complete. Afterward, you'll recover under close observation before receiving instructions on pain management, medications, physical therapy and follow-up care. To help you safely regain mobility, you'll likely use crutches or a walker during the early stages of recovery.What to Expect After Knee Replacement SurgeryYour surgeon will provide you with a follow-up appointment and a prescription for physical therapy. Physical therapy after surgery is essential to regain your strength and get optimal results from your knee replacement. Physical therapy usually begins immediately after surgery and may continue for up to six weeks.After roughly six weeks, most knee replacements are up to 80% healed. After three months, most achieve 90% healing and by one year, most patients are back to their active lifestyle with nearly complete knee function and comfort.Whole-Person Orthopedic CareOur orthopedic experts offer advanced knee replacement options that put your whole-health first. To learn more about the services we offer, visit AdventHealthPortCharlotte.com.  

Local Services By This Author

The Inn at Freedom Village of Bradenton

Skilled Nursing 6410 21st Avenue West, Bradenton, Florida, 34209

The Inn at Freedom Village offers 24-hour skilled nursing care designed to provide advanced long-term care with the comfort and support of home. Here's what you or your loved one can expect from our skilled nursing services:Tailored care plans: Residents at The Inn at Freedom Village are treated as treasured family members, and our caring staff takes the time to develop personalized care plans tailored to individual needs. Whether for short-term or long-term stays, we anticipate needs and provide highly personalized care and transition support.Supportive environment: Residents receive care in a supportive environment where their comfort and well-being are prioritized. Our staff assists with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, grooming, and medication administration, ensuring residents' needs are met with compassion and dignity.Engaging activities: We encourage residents to stay engaged in activities appropriate for them, offering opportunities for socialization, recreation, and personal enrichment. Our beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds provide serene outdoor spaces for relaxation and enjoyment.Comprehensive amenities: Skilled nursing services and amenities include private or companion suites, all-inclusive monthly fees covering care, living, and dining costs, daily housekeeping and laundry service, and 24-hour nursing care. We also hold regular care meetings with residents and their families to ensure ongoing communication and support.At The Inn at Freedom Village, we are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive skilled nursing care in a warm and welcoming environment. Our goal is to enhance the quality of life for each resident by meeting their individual needs with personalized care and support.

Freedom Village of Bradenton Independent Living

Independent Living 6406 21st Avenue West, Bradenton, Florida, 34209

Freedom Village of Bradenton offers independent living with a wealth of amenities and services designed to enhance your lifestyle. Here's what you can expect as a resident:Freedom from homeownership responsibilities: As an independent living resident, you'll enjoy the freedom of leaving behind the burdens of homeownership. Spend your days as you please, knowing that maintenance and other household tasks are taken care of for you.Vibrant, active lifestyle: Recognized as a 2024 Best Independent Living community by U.S. News & World Report, Freedom Village of Bradenton offers a vibrant, active lifestyle. Explore new interests, connect with neighbors, and enjoy a full social life with a wide range of amenities and activities.Life Plan Community with Life Care contract: As a Life Plan Community, Freedom Village of Bradenton provides convenient access to higher levels of quality on-campus care if needed. With the Life Care contract, you'll enjoy financial predictability and access to a continuum of care, ensuring peace of mind for the future.Resort-like amenities: Residents have access to resort-like amenities and services, including fitness facilities, recreational activities, social events, and more. Nurture connections, explore new learning experiences, and stay active and engaged within the community.Maintenance-free residences: Choose from villa homes or one-, two-, and three-bedroom senior apartments, each with its own private balcony or lanai. Enjoy maintenance-free living and the freedom to personalize your space with your favorite flooring and paint colors.Pet-friendly community: Freedom Village of Bradenton welcomes pets, allowing residents to enjoy the companionship of their furry friends.Experience the freedom, convenience, and enrichment of independent living at Freedom Village of Bradenton, where you can live life to the fullest and feel confident about the future.

The Inn at Freedom Village of Bradenton

Assisted Living 6410 21st Avenue West, Bradenton, Florida, 34209

Assistance with daily tasks. Companionship at just the right time. Someone you can trust, who brings a smile to your face. Assisted living gives you the freedom and flexibility to enjoy each day and live as independently as possible.THE RIGHT HELP MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE.Were proud to be recognized for our high standards for assisted living, earning first place in the 2021 Manatee Readers Choice Awards from the Herald-Tribune.When you want the best care in assisted living, count on the qualified professional help youll receive at Freedom Village of Bradenton. We collaborate with you to design a plan for your specific needs including bathing, dressing, grooming, medication management, and other activities of daily living. Because were a Life Plan Community, youll have the advantage of being able to transition seamlessly to other levels of care if needed.The cost of assisted living is covered by a monthly fee that includes a maintenance-free residence, personalized care, dining and more. Residents have access to all community services and amenities, such as fitness classes, chef-prepared dining, and a full-service salon and barbershop.We also offer respite care to give seniors and their caregivers a break from their usual routine. Seniors can receive the personalized care they need while they enjoy the vibrant lifestyle in our assisted living facility, allowing caregivers the time to rest or take care of other responsibilities. Reservations are required to book a short respite stay.