Social Filters Can Come and Go When Living with Dementia

How do you decide between memory care vs. nursing homes when researching senior living communities for your loved one?Both long-term care options are appropriate for individuals who require assistance with the activities of daily living, and both provide skilled nursing care. However, they typically have distinct focuses, so its important to understand their differences when considering care for a loved one.Memory Care FacilitiesMemory care communities offer specialized care for people with dementia symptoms. Health professionals working at memory care residences undergo specialized training to better understand and care for those with memory impairments.Here are other characteristics of assisted living facilities that focus on memory care.Memory care residences offer specialized care for those living with dementia symptoms.Dementia care covers a wide range of diseases and diagnoses. For example, people with Alzheimers disease have dementia as do those with Lewy body dementia and vascular dementia. Memory care facilities focus on addressing the unique needs and challenges associated with cognitive decline.Memory care facilities are specifically designed for those with dementia.Memory care units are often designed with features and layouts that provide a secure environment and reduce confusion for residents. A memory care unit has secure entrances and exits to prevent wandering.Those working at memory care facilities are trained in managing behavior issues.You may have noticed that your loved one with dementia is becoming more agitated and aggressive as their disease progresses. Staff at memory care facilities are specifically trained to help residents with complex dementia behaviors.Memory care facilities emphasize activities that cater to residents cognitive abilities and interests.Medical professionals design activities for memory care communities that may help slow a patients cognitive decline.Nursing HomesNursing homes provide residents with a broad range of medical and personal care services. A nursing homes services may include:Assistance with activities of daily living.Medical care such as medication management, wound care, and physical therapy.While nursing home residents may have memory loss, this may not be their debilitating medical issue.Nursing homes serve diverse needs.Nursing homes typically admit residents with various health conditions, including chronic illnesses, disabilities, or rehabilitation needs. The resident population may include individuals with and without cognitive impairments.Nursing homes have a diverse staff to provide extensive medical support to residents.Nursing home staff may include registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), certified nursing assistants (CNAs), therapists, and other healthcare professionals. The level of medical care is generally higher than in memory care facilities.What Type of Skilled Nursing Care Is Right for Your Loved One?Choosing between a nursing home and a memory care facility depends on the specific needs and conditions of those requiring care.If someone has dementia or Alzheimers disease, and their primary need is support for cognitive decline, a memory care facility may be a more appropriate choice. However, a nursing home may be a better fit if the individual has a range of medical needs beyond cognitive impairment.The good news is you dont have to make this decision alone. Retirement Unlimited staff will help you select the appropriate level of care for your loved one. And because we offer many different senior care options, your loved one may be able to start in one environment and move to another community if symptoms progress.Schedule a tour of a senior living community near you to learn about the types of care we offer.Key Takeaways: Choosing Between a Memory Care Facility or Nursing Home?Both memory care and nursing facilities can help dementia patients.Memory care residences offer specialized care for those living with dementia symptoms.Those working at memory care facilities are trained in managing behavior issues.Nursing homes have a diverse staff to provide extensive medical support to residents.Ask a professional for help determining what type of care your loved one needs.

Here is your chance to live in a historically designated building two blocks from bustling Union Station.  Built in 1882, The Barth Hotel was originally a liquor warehouse, but it was soon converted into an upscale hotel. While the Barth Hotel Assisted Living is historic, it provides a home with tall ceilings, large and expansive windows, and beautiful features throughout the building Senior Housing Options (SHO) purchased the property in 1980 to help solve the problem of older adults being displaced in downtown Denver due to gentrification. SHO continues that mission today providing residential communities and caring services to enrich the lives of older adults in Colorado.  The Barth Hotel accepts Medicaid and private pay for a studio unit and is all-inclusive starting at just $4,000 a month.  All SHO Assisted Living properties provide three home cooked meals a day, snacks, medication administration, 24/7-person centered care, housekeeping and on-site maintenance and life enrichment activities that are included in the all-inclusive rate.  Call today for more information at 303- 534-7142 or plan to attend our open house on August 15, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at 1510 17th Street Denver, CO 80202. If a quiet, park-like setting is more to your liking, come visit our Park Hill Residence half a mile east of City Park near the Denver Zoo.  Park Hill Residence was converted from a convent and still possesses its original charm.  There are recently renovated rooms available with the same all-inclusive benefits listed above.  These quaint rooms start at $4,000, Medicaid and private pay accepted.  Another development at Park Hill is the addition of an Adult Day Program beginning Fall 2024 for people 60+ with dementia.  If you would like Information about living at Park Hill or the Adult Day Program, they can be reached at 303-993-5049. Cinnamon Park is our beautiful, assisted living community in Longmont.  Founded by a group of physicians in 1984, Cinnamon Park became a SHO community in 1992.  We currently have availability that includes the same benefits all our residents at SHO assisted living communities enjoy with unit rates beginning at $4,000.  Located in a beautiful residential neighborhood, they share the campus with our affordable living senior community and enjoy many shared activities. We also have open waitlists for many of our affordable housing units too, including hard-to-find two-bedroom units at September House or Decatur in Denver.  If interested, please contact our main number at 303-595-4464. Senior Housing Options is celebrating 45 years of following our vision to assure Colorados older adults live and thrive in a safe, caring community regardless of their financial means.  Please save the date to attend our anniversary celebration on Wednesday, October 16th from 6:00pm 8:00pm at the Space Gallery located in the Denver Arts District.  Industry experts have been invited to speak and a buffet dinner will be served.  More information to follow.  Sponsorship opportunities are available.  Please contact Christine at 303-523-3362 if interested. Senior Housing Options, Inc. (SHO) is a nonprofit organization that serves low- and moderate-income older adults and adults with disabling conditions. SHO is unique in that we provide affordable housing in both the assisted living and more independent settings to those who need it most. We are one of Colorados most long-standing nonprofits in the affordable housing sector, providing the best options for older adults and those with disabilities. Please visit SeniorHousingOptions.org and subscribe to our newsletter, to learn more and keep in touch our phone number is 303-595-4464 and email is info@SeniorHousingOptions.org.

Transitioning into the senior years can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when faced with the challenges of clutter and disorganization. At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we understand the importance of bringing calm and order to seniors' lives. In this blog post, we'll explore how professional organizers can transform chaos into calm for seniors, providing practical tips and guidance along the way.Understanding the Impact of Chaos on SeniorsFor many seniors, maintaining a clutter-free and organized living space becomes increasingly challenging as they age. Clutter can contribute to stress, anxiety, and even safety hazards, impacting both physical and mental well-being. Understanding the impact of chaos on seniors is crucial in recognizing the need for professional organizing services.The Power of Professional Organizers for SeniorsCompassionate Guidance: Professional organizers specializing in senior care offer compassionate guidance and support throughout the organizing process. They understand the unique needs and challenges seniors face and provide non-judgmental assistance in decluttering and organizing their living spaces.Customized Solutions: Every senior's situation is unique, which is why professional organizers tailor their services to meet individual needs. They assess the client's living environment, preferences, and mobility considerations to develop customized organizing solutions that promote functionality and independence.Decluttering Expertise: Seniors may accumulate belongings over the years, leading to clutter and disorganization. Professional organizers have the expertise to help seniors declutter their homes efficiently and effectively. They assist in sorting through possessions, identifying items to keep, donate, or discard, and implementing practical storage solutions.Safety and Accessibility: Safety is paramount, especially for seniors living independently. Professional organizers prioritize safety by creating clutter-free and accessible living spaces. They address potential hazards, such as tripping risks and blocked pathways, and implement safety measures such as installing grab bars and improving lighting.Emotional Support: Sorting through belongings can evoke strong emotions for seniors, particularly when parting with sentimental items. Professional organizers offer emotional support and encouragement throughout the process, helping seniors make decisions that align with their goals and values while respecting their emotional attachment to certain belongings.Long-Term Solutions: Professional organizing is not just about tidying up; it's about establishing sustainable systems that promote long-term organization and well-being. Organizers teach seniors practical strategies for maintaining order in their homes, empowering them to stay organized and clutter-free in the future.At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we recognize the transformative power of bringing order to seniors' lives. Our team of experienced organizers is dedicated to helping seniors transition from chaos to calm, providing compassionate guidance, customized solutions, and ongoing support every step of the way. With our expertise in decluttering, organizing, and promoting safety, we create harmonious living environments where seniors can thrive independently. Let us be your partner in reclaiming peace, order, and tranquility in your home.