For more information about the author, click to view their website: The Auberge at Aspen Park
The decision to move a parent into an assisted living community can be hard for any family, but the process is made much easier by keeping some basic steps in mind -- starting with an open conversation
Maybe you've recently noticed that your mother or fathers health has started to decline. As a son or daughter, the idea alone is enough to make your heart break. As children, we all hold in common the belief that our parents will live forever. As we get older, we come closer to the inevitable truth that, at some point, we may have to entrust the care of our senior parents to someone other than ourselves.
Its an unenviable position. The first thing to remember other than taking a deep breath is that you are not alone. Not by a long shot. According to statistics published by the National Center for Assisted Living, as of 2020, more than 800,000 Americans 93 percent of which are 65 or older live in an assisted living community. Thats a lot of discussions adult children are having with their aging parents similar to the one you may be contemplating right now. Talking to your mother or father (or both) about their declining health should at least kick start the conversation of them benefitting from a higher, more comprehensive level of care than what you are qualified or able to provide.
The conversation wont be easy, but were here to make it as stress-free as possible.
Start With An Open, Honest Conversation With Your Parents About Assisted Living
Reaching a consensus that the best possible situation for your aging parent or parents is an assisted living community requires clear lines of communication. Start this process by finding a quiet place, one free of distractions, to have a frank discussion with your parents that will allow you to clearly make your concerns known.If you have siblings, have them present. Maybe you want to bring in additional family members so they can also reflect your concerns
Calmly let them know exactly how youre feeling and why youre having the conversation, but also be prepared for some resistance, even if youre confident they will be open to the idea of long-term care.
As is the case with any fruitful conversation, its important to articulate your case and then listen. Write down the potential worries or fears your elderly parent has about moving out of the house and into an unfamiliar environment. This not only lets them know that the discussion is a two-way street, but you can use your notes down the line to potentially qualify some senior living communities over others.
Ultimately, youre a son or daughter first, of course, but your secondary role should be one of an advocate.
Assess Level Of Care To Determine Cost
What level of care does your parent require?
Has the decline in health translated into a need for help with dressing, bathing, or grooming? These activities of daily living commonly referred to as ADLs typically serve as the industry standard to determine whether senior care is best administered in an assisted living setting or a community that provides more of an independent living lifestyle, in which residents enjoy autonomy with little to no supervision from staff.
Are there any cognitive functions that need to be monitored?
If your parent has been diagnosed with memory impairment, such as Alzheimers or another form of dementia, an assisted living community which has staff who are specifically certified to provide full-time memory care will be well worth the additional cost. This level of care would be similar to a nursing home or skilled nursing community, where caregivers are available 24 hours a day. The rule of thumb is, the more intensive the medical care, the higher the price for the community. And bear in mind that your assessment does not have to be perfect. As we will cover in the next section, there are professionals out there more than willing to help you accurately assess your situation to determine the right level of care and transition into talks about payment, of which there are many options, fortunately.
Please see our assisted living payment guide for more information on the various ways you can pay for your parents long-term care.
Enlist The Help Of A Senior Living Advisor
Sometimes referred to as a senior care advisor or consultant or elder care advisor, this individual exists to play a pivotal role in the selection of the community that will ultimately administer the proper amount of care to your elderly parent or loved one.
The primary responsibility of a senior living advisor is to guide individuals and their families through the painstaking and often tedious process of identifying and securing the best possible senior living situation according to needs and budget.
Its also important to note that these advisors work for independent advisory firms, meaning they are beholden to no one community or network of communities, thus eliminating all conflicts of interest that could allow prejudice to seep into the decision-making process.
Below is a brief list of some of the questions youll want to entrust to a senior living advisor:
How much do various assisted living options cost?
What forms of financing/payment are available for long-term care services?
What senior living community options are near my location?
Do any additional care options need to be considered?
How do you ensure the safety of senior living communities?
Visit A Community Before Making A Financial Commitment
Any time you move into a new home, you first take a tour, right?
You inspect the sturdiness of the walls and floors, test the electrical, water, and gas connections, and aimlessly walk around to see if this new environment is somewhere you could see yourself for the foreseeable future.
An assisted living community should be no different. This is your parents new home. This is where theyll be meeting new friends and making new memories. Its walls will be vital to their well-being for a number of years. Most importantly, it should fit your parents needs. The transition of downsizing from the place your loved one has called home for decades to a place completely foreign requires some warming up to. Gather brochures from a handful of communities. Browse photo galleries on community websites together. Schedule COVID-era virtual tours of those communities atop your short list, and when youre able, choose a small handful that make your even shorter list for in-person tours.
Seeing a community up-close and meeting its staff will not only give you peace of mind, it will make the idea of transition completely less intimidating for your loved one.
Prepare For The Transition
Youve had the all-important sit-down. Everyone is on-board with assisted living. The senior care advisor has guided you to the perfect landing spot, and your multiple tours of the retirement community have only reinforced your confidence. Move-in day for your loved one is fast approaching, and so the final planning steps are all thats left.
Heres a small checklist of items youll want to cross off to make sure everything is buttoned up in time for the big day:
Determine what possessions need to make the trip or be left behind/donated
Hire a moving service (off-peak prices tend be offered during autumn months)
Organize important financial and health documentation that include the following
Bank account information
Tax returns
Pension documents
Deeds to all owned properties
Titles to all vehicles
Records of all loans and debts
Power of attorney
Personal medical history
Living will
Insurance ID cards (major medical, Medicare, Medicaid)
In the end, when it comes to transitioning your loved one from home to an assisted living community for long-term care, the goal is to make sure everyone is happy with the decision and feels good about what the future has in store.
Are you looking to breathe new life into your senior living space? Theres no better time than now to refresh your surroundings and create a comfortable, inviting, and functional environment. Here are ten decor ideas that will help you transform your space and make it a reflection of your personality and preferences.Idea 1: Color TherapyChoose the Right Colors - Color plays a significant role in setting the mood of a room. When selecting colors for your senior living space, consider the psychological impact they can have. Soft, muted tones like blues, greens, and lavender can create a calming atmosphere, while warm colors such as yellows, oranges, and reds evoke feelings of energy and happiness.Idea 2: FurnitureComfortable Seating - Your seating should be comfortable and supportive, allowing for relaxation and socialization. Consider chairs with lumbar support, padded armrests, and adjustable heights to accommodate various preferences and mobility levels.Multi-functional Furniture - Choose furniture that serves multiple purposes, like a lift-top coffee table or an ottoman with built-in storage. These pieces can help you save space and keep your living area tidy.Idea 3: LightingNatural Light - Maximize natural light by keeping window treatments light and sheer. Natural light can elevate your mood and make your space feel more open and invitingLayered LightingIncorporate different lighting sources such as ambient, task, and accent lighting. This approach allows you to create various moods while ensuring adequate illumination for daily activities.Idea 4: Wall DecorArtwork - Showcase your favorite artwork or prints to add personality and visual interest to your walls. Opt for pieces that evoke positive emotions and memories.Family Photos - Display family photos in coordinating frames to create a sense of connection and warmth. Group them together for a gallery wall effect or scatter them throughout the room.Mirrors - Mirrors can make a room feel larger and brighter by reflecting light. Place mirrors opposite windows or light sources to maximize their impact.Idea 5: TextilesRugs - A well-chosen rug can anchor your room and provide warmth and comfort underfoot. Look for rugs with non-slip backing and low pile for easier mobility and maintenance.Curtains - Choose curtains that complement your color scheme and provide privacy without blocking natural light. For a cozy feel, opt for heavier fabrics; for a light and airy atmosphere, select sheer or lightweight materials. Throw Pillows - Throw pillows can instantly add color, texture, and comfort to your space. Mix and match patterns and textures to create visual interest and a personalized touch.Idea 6: Indoor PlantsAir-purifying Plants - Introduce air-purifying plants like spider plants, snake plants, or peace lilies to your senior living space. They help remove toxins from the air and create a fresher, healthier environmentEasy-to-care Plants - Choose low-maintenance plants like succulents and pothos, which require minimal watering and care. They add a touch of greenery without demanding too much of your time and energy.Idea 7: Memory WallPersonal MemorabiliaDedicate a wall or section of your living space to showcase personal memorabilia such as travel souvenirs, awards, or keepsakes. This can serve as a reminder of your accomplishments and cherished memories. Shared ExperiencesInclude items that represent shared experiences with friends and family, such as group photos or mementos from special events. This can foster a sense of belonging and strengthen relationships with loved ones.Idea 8: Accessible DesignUniversal Design PrinciplesIncorporate universal design principles like wider doorways, lever-style door handles, and non-slip flooring to make your space more accessible and functional for everyone, regardless of age or mobility level.Aging in PlaceConsider implementing aging-in-place design features, such as grab bars in the bathroom, adjustable countertops, and proper lighting. These adjustments can help ensure your space remains comfortable and safe as your needs change over time.Idea 9: OrganizationDecluttering - Take time to declutter and remove unnecessary items from your living space. This can create a more open, peaceful, and manageable environment.Storage Solutions - Incorporate storage solutions like shelves, cabinets, or decorative storage boxes to keep your belongings organized and easily accessible.Idea 10: Personal TouchesHobbies and Interests - Display items that reflect your hobbies and interests, such as a collection of books, musical instruments, or sports memorabilia. This personal touch can make your space feel more like home.Cultural ElementsIncorporate elements of your cultural background into your decor, like traditional artwork, textiles, or pottery. This can provide a sense of connection to your roots and make your space feel more authentic.Dont worry, refreshing your senior living space is easier than you might think! With these ten decor ideas, you can create a cozy, functional, and personalized environment that truly feels like home. By adding your personal touch and incorporating elements that reflect your unique personality and preferences, you can enjoy the many benefits of a refreshed and revitalized living space. So why wait? Get started today and let your creativity shine!Integracare Senior Living CommunitiesAt Integracare, we know that finding the right care is important for you or your loved ones. Our communities all maintain the same high standards of care, and were always happy to help you find the perfect fit. Creating a comfortable and inviting space is essential for your well-being, and we hope that these ten decor ideas have inspired you to transform your senior living space into a reflection of your unique personality and preferences. If you have any questions or want to learn more about our communities, please dont hesitate to get in touch with us. Were here to help!
When temperatures rise, so do the risks associated with heat, especially for older adults.Older individuals may not adjust as well to sudden changes in temperature, and with possible chronic health conditions or certain medications, extreme heat may cause negative health outcomes.Kavod Senior Life is well aware of these potential issues, sharing four best practices to protect people in the second half of life against the heat. Here are some tips we've learned from our 50+ years of housing and supporting older individuals in aging well!Stay HydratedWhy It Is Important: Older adults are at a higher risk of dehydration because they may not feel thirsty as often as younger people, and as mentioned above, certain medications can increase the risk of dehydration.Tips:Drink water even if you dont feel thirsty.Eat water-rich foods like fruits (e.g., watermelon, cucumbers) and vegetables.Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages, as they can lead to dehydration.How Kavod Responds: Hydration stations are set up in the lobbies of each building during the hottest days to give residents, staff and visitors easy access to ice cold water (with lemon and cucumber, even!)Create a Cool EnvironmentWhy It Is Important: A cool living space is crucial to preventing heat-related illnesses.Tips:Use fans or air conditioning. If air conditioning is not available, consider spending time in public places like libraries, shopping malls, or community centers that are air-conditioned.NOTE: Do not rely on fans as your main cooling source when temperatures are extreme for heat.Keep blinds or curtains closed during the hottest parts of the day to block out the sun.Use light-colored, loose-fitting clothing made of natural fibers like cotton, which are more breathable.Try to avoid using the stove or oven to cook it will make your home hotter.Take cool showers or baths to cool down.How Kavod Responds: A cooling center is set up on campus where the temperature stays at 72 degrees. Residents can get out of their apartments and socialize there without having to go outdoors, helping abate social isolation. Dietary AdjustmentsWhy It Is Important: Certain foods can help keep the body cool and hydrated.Tips:Encourage smaller, more frequent meals that are easier to digest.Include hydrating foods like soups, smoothies, and salads.Limit heavy, hot foods and opt for lighter fare like yogurt, salads, and chilled fruits.How Kavod Responds: Kavod staff serves residents cold lemonade and fresh watermelon over the weekend in the cooling center, both terrific ways to stay hydrated.Educate and EquipWhy It Is Important: Knowledge and preparation are key to preventing heat-related issues.Tips:Educate yourself about the risks of heat and the importance of staying cool.Be aware of the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnessHave access to emergency numbers and know what to do in case you experience these symptomsHow Kavod Responds: The management team reviews, prepares and hand-delivers updates to residents to best ensure everyone is educated and can take appropriate actions against the heat.ConclusionBy following these four important steps, older individuals can stay healthy and safe while enjoying all the good things summer has to offer. If you know an older person who would benefit by living in our community, please contact us for a tour, or check out our website for more information. Stay cool, everyone!Resources used in article:Center for Disease Control: https://www.cdc.gov/extreme-heat/risk-factors/extreme-heat-and-older-adults-aged-65.html#:':text=Older%20adults%20do%20not%20adjust,control%20its%20temperature%20or%20sweatNational Institute on Aging: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/safety/hot-weather-safety-older-adultsHarvard Medicine: https://magazine.hms.harvard.edu/articles/effects-heat-older-adultsChat GPT
When searching for personal care homes, families often overlook the critical distinction between national chain organizations and local, family-owned and operated facilities. This difference can significantly affect the quality of life for residents. Family-owned personal care homes offer a unique, personalized experience that larger corporate entities often struggle to replicate. Let's explore the benefits of choosing a family-owned personal care home.The Personal Touch of Family-Owned Personal Care HomesFamily-owned personal care homes are typically founded with a mission that transcends profit. These homes are often established by families who have a personal investment in providing high-quality care, inspired by their own experiences with elder care. This personal touch translates into an environment that feels more like a home than an institution.Residents Come FirstIn family-owned personal care homes, the focus is on the residents rather than solely on business. These homes prioritize caring for both residents and staff, ensuring that the needs of individuals are met with compassion and understanding. By treating the business as an extension of their family, the quality of care reflects a genuine concern for residents, making them feel valued and respected.Hands-On LeadershipA standout feature of family-owned personal care homes is the active involvement of the owners in daily operations. This accessibility fosters open communication between residents, families, and staff. Owners who engage directly with the community help create a culture that feels like an extended family. This direct involvement not only motivates staff but also inspires a supportive and cohesive environment.Everyone Has a NameIn family-owned and operated personal care homes, every team member is empowered to make decisions and respond attentively to the needs of residents and their families. Unlike large corporations with multiple layers of management, family-owned homes maintain personal connections with both residents and staff. Employees are recognized as individuals with names and purposes, which is reflected in the quality of care provided.Benefits for Staff and ResidentsThe advantages of choosing a family-owned personal care home extend beyond the residents themselves. Staff members also experience a range of benefits that contribute to a positive work environment.Happy Staff, Happy ResidentsFamily-owned homes prioritize the well-being of their staff just as much as that of their residents. There is a clear correlation between satisfied staff and happy residents. In these homes, staff members are treated with respect and care, fostering a nurturing environment. When team members face personal challenges, the entire community comes together to provide support, leading to a harmonious atmosphere that benefits everyone involved.Fair PricingFamily-owned personal care homes often have the flexibility to offer more affordable pricing compared to national chains. Their business decisions are based on caring for residents and staff as part of their family, rather than solely on financial gain. While cost is a significant consideration in choosing a personal care home, family-owned facilities frequently provide a more cost-effective solution without compromising on quality.Enhanced Family RelationshipsFamily-owned homes not only benefit residents and staff but also enhance family relationships. By sharing caregiving responsibilities with professionals, families can focus on spending quality time with their loved ones rather than being overwhelmed by caregiving tasks. This shift allows for more meaningful interactions and the creation of lasting memories.Choosing a family-owned personal care home offers numerous benefits that can significantly enhance the quality of life for older adults and their families. The personalized care, hands-on leadership, and strong community ties inherent in these homes provide a nurturing setting that promotes well-being and peace of mind. For families seeking a compassionate and resident-centered approach to elder care, family-owned personal care homes represent an invaluable option.If you feel that a family-owned personal care home might make a great option for you, or your loved one - we would love to meet you! Contact Lindsey Jester today at 330-692-8628.
The Auberge at Aspen Park is a community specifically designed to serve the needs of individuals living with Alzheimers disease, dementia and other forms of memory loss. At The Auberge, residents enjoy an active, engaging lifestyle that promotes wellness and independence. It is our goal to keep our residents linked to resources and opportunities that fulfill their needs and interests. Residents have opportunities every day to participate in a variety of life-enriching activities and events designed to stimulate the mind, body, and soul. Our talented team of dedicated and caring staff are there when you need them. Its Inspired Living Reinvented!