For more information about the author, click to view their website: Celebration Villa of South Hills
Transitioning a loved one into a senior care community can be a big adjustment for both residents and family members. For many, it’s easy to carve out time to visit but sometimes difficult to know what to do or what to bring. Being prepared for your visit can help ease your mind.
So you’ve planned your next visit, what now? Below is a short list of items, activities, and games that will help you plan for a visit and give you and your loved one something to look forward to!
Our community takes pride in having numerous activities throughout each week to ensure that seniors are engaged and connected. These activities are an opportunity for you to connect with your loved one through a shared hobby or the learning of a new skill. A few examples of activities might be:
Group exercise class
Game Night
Trivia Games
Karaoke
& More!
Your next visit is an opportunity to not only capture the moment but create memories with your loved ones. If you are yet to make a family portrait, your visit is the best time to do so, especially with the entire family.
Having a generational blend is perfect! You may consider bringing the grandchildren along on your next visit and welcome them into these moments as well. These pictures can serve as apartment decor or be added to a photo album, allowing your loved one to reminisce over memories. Alternatively, you may also consider bringing old photos/photo albums from home to spark storytelling and relive your family’s favorite memories.
If your loved one is committed to religious practices, then you can livestream services or invite members of their religious organizations during the visit. This helps foster connection not just within the community but outside as well. Most seniors enjoy the satisfaction that comes from a worship session or a spiritual practice. It is sometimes helpful to engage in these activities on a group level as that promotes accountability among others.
Thankfully, a number of religious organizations have migrated to the internet space with livestreaming on media pages across the globe, providing an opportunity to pray, meditate or attend a service with your loved ones.
Lastly, we always recommend a classic card game or board game. Bringing a deck of cards is a simple way to get everyone involved in one activity, but still being relaxed enough to let conversation flow naturally. At Celebration Villa, there are common spaces with tables and room to gather with family and friends for a game of cards!
At Celebration Villa, we ensure that your loved one is living life to the fullest. From group activities and outings to game nights and reading clubs, there is always something available for residents to participate in. We understand that fostering connection and community is essential to the wellbeing and longevity of seniors.
As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, its a beautiful reminder that autumn is upon us. While the fall season brings cozy sweaters and pumpkin spice, it also presents unique challenges, especially for seniors. With slippery leaves, shorter days, and the onset of colder weather, its crucial to take steps to ensure your home is as safe as possible. Here are some essential fall prevention safety tips to help create a secure home environment this autumn.1. Keep Walkways Clear of Leaves and DebrisFallen leaves can be beautiful, but when they accumulate on walkways, they can become slippery, especially when wet. Regularly rake and clear paths, driveways, and steps to prevent slips and falls.2. Improve Outdoor LightingAs daylight hours shorten, good lighting becomes more important than ever. Make sure outdoor lights are functioning properly and consider adding motion-sensor lights around entrances and walkways. This not only helps prevent falls but also enhances security around your home.3. Install Grab Bars and HandrailsBathrooms and staircases are common areas where falls occur. Installing grab bars in the bathroom and handrails along stairs can provide the extra support needed to prevent accidents. Ensure these are securely attached and regularly check them for stability.4. Use Non-Slip Mats and RugsSlippery floors can be hazardous, especially in areas prone to moisture, such as entryways, kitchens, and bathrooms. Place non-slip mats in these areas and secure rugs with non-slip pads to prevent them from sliding. This simple step can significantly reduce the risk of falls.5. Declutter and OrganizeCluttered spaces can be a tripping hazard. Take the time to declutter your home, especially in high-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms. Ensure that cords, shoes, and other obstacles are stored away properly. A tidy home is not only more comfortable but also safer.6. Schedule a Heating System CheckAs temperatures drop, you'll likely be using your heating system more frequently. Before the cold fully sets in, have your heating system inspected by a professional to ensure it's working safely and efficiently. A well-maintained system can prevent accidents and keep your home warm throughout the fall and winter.7. Check Fire Alarms and Carbon Monoxide DetectorsWith the increased use of heating systems, its important to ensure that your fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning correctly. Test them monthly, replace batteries as needed, and consider upgrading to newer models if your devices are outdated.8. Consider a Free Senior Home Safety AssessmentFor seniors, creating a safe home environment is essential. TruBlue offers a Free Senior Home Safety Assessment to help identify potential hazards and recommend modifications to enhance safety. Our certified Senior Safety Specialists can provide personalized solutions that cater to the unique needs of seniors, allowing them to age in place safely.Fall is a season of change, and its the perfect time to take proactive steps to ensure your home is safe and secure. By following these fall prevention tips, you can reduce the risk of accidents and create a more comfortable living environment. Whether its clearing walkways, improving lighting, or installing safety features like grab bars, each small action can make a big difference.At TruBlue, were committed to helping you maintain a safe and comfortable home. Contact us today to schedule your Free Senior Home Safety Assessment and take the first step towards a safer autumn. Together, we can ensure that you or your loved ones can enjoy the beauty of the season without worry.
Navigating Medicare: A Comprehensive Information Guide with MediConnectAre you turning 65 soon or approaching eligibility for Medicare? Understanding your healthcare options is crucial for ensuring you receive the coverage you need. With Medicare being a cornerstone of healthcare for millions of Americans, its essential to familiarize yourself with its information. At MediConnect, our Medicare advisory firm, were here to help you find the plan that works best for you.What is Medicare?Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily designed for people who are 65 or older. However, it also covers certain younger individuals with disabilities and those with end-stage renal disease. It consists of different parts, each providing coverage for specific services:1. Medicare Part A: Hospital insurance that covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care, and some home health care.2. Medicare Part B: Medical insurance that covers outpatient care, doctor visits, preventive services, and some home health care.3. Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage): A private insurance alternative to Original Medicare (Part A and Part B), often including prescription drug coverage and additional benefits like vision, dental, and wellness programs.4. Medicare Part D: Prescription drug coverage available through private insurance companies approved by Medicare.Understanding EnrollmentEnrolling in Medicare can be a straightforward process if you understand the information for your options and the timing of key decisions: Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): Typically, this is a seven-month period that begins three months before the month you turn 65, includes the month you turn 65, and ends three months after the month you turn 65. General Enrollment Period (GEP): If you missed your Initial Enrollment Period, you can enroll during the General Enrollment Period, which runs from January 1 to March 31 each year. However, late enrollment may result in penalties. Special Enrollment Period (SEP): Some individuals may qualify for a Special Enrollment Period due to specific life events, such as moving, losing employer coverage, or qualifying for additional assistance programs.Making Informed Choices with MediConnectChoosing the right Medicare coverage depends on various factors, including your healthcare needs, budget, and preferences. At MediConnect, our Medicare advisory firm, we take the information you give us to offer personalized guidance and expertise. Helping you make informed decisions: Coverage Needs: Our team will work with you to assess your healthcare needs, including prescription medications, doctor visits, and any specialized care requirements. Costs: Well help you understand the premiums, deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance associated with each Medicare option to determine the total cost of coverage. Provider Networks: Well explain the differences between Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans, helping you choose the option that aligns with your provider preferences. Prescription Drug Coverage: Our experts will evaluate your prescription drug needs and compare Part D plans to find the one that best covers your medications at the lowest cost.Additional ResourcesNavigating the complexities of Medicare may seem daunting, but youre not alone. Here are some resources to give you additional information along the way: Medicare.gov: The official Medicare website offers comprehensive information, including plan comparisons, enrollment guidance, and eligibility criteria. State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs): These programs provide free, personalized Medicare counseling and assistance to help you understand your options and make informed decisions. Medicare Plan Finder: Use this tool on Medicare.gov to compare Medicare Advantage plans, Part D prescription drug plans, and Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) policies available in your area.As you approach Medicare eligibility, remember that MediConnect is here to support you every step of the way. Our Medicare advisory firm is dedicated to helping you find the coverage that meets your unique needs and preferences.By understanding the various parts of Medicare, enrollment periods, and factors to consider when choosing a plan, you can make confident decisions about your healthcare coverage. Let us guide you through the process and ensure you have the peace of mind that comes with comprehensive Medicare coverage tailored to your individual requirements.
The Role of a Geriatric Care ManagerThe share of the United States population over the age of 65 has risen to 16%, and it is expected to climb further to 23% by 2060. People are living longer, and that means that people also have more specialized health care needs.Aging life care calls for a different kind of attention, as various conditions and syndromes begin to present themselves. Depending on which conditions those are, the situation can get complicated pretty quickly. In some cases, it might be worthwhile to consider hiring a geriatric care manager.As we and our loved ones age, we usually end up needing support from the people around us to make sure our needs are met. Family members in particular tend to shoulder this responsibility. But there are many reasons that might make it difficult to have a good support network in place. The most common reason is that family caregivers simply live too far away to provide reliable senior care management.In this context, geriatric care managers can be thought of as "professional relatives." If a family member is not able to provide long term care, geriatric care managers can help provide any and all services related to elder care. They are usually licenced nurses or social workers who are trained in aging life care, and they organize care plans and advocate for their patients needs.If you hire a geriatric care manager, you will be able to count on them to navigate the complexities of the health care system. It can also be helpful to have someone who can make decisions from a neutral point of view, as family caregivers sometimes have to make difficult decisions that are deeply personal.The primary responsibilities of a geriatric care manager are:Coordinating elder care between multiple service providersDeveloping both short and long term care plansHelping manage emotional concerns, stress, and anxietiesHelping manage transitional careHiring additional caregivers as necessaryMake home visits and evaluate living conditionsOngoing assessment of aging life care needsAll of this helps take the pressure off family members and ensures that geriatric care management is always under control.When to Seek Support With an Aging Life Care ExpertThere are many cases in which families are perfectly capable of managing aging life care for someone they love. But it can be challenging to know when you might be taking on more than you can reasonably expect to handle. As discussed above, one of the most obvious challenges is that family members do not live near the person who needs their care. But other complications are not as straightforward.You should consider hiring a geriatric care manager when:You need help with a complex issue. Lots of medical conditions can lead to the kinds of behaviors that should really be handled by aging life care professionals. Issues related to dementia, verbal abuse, or physical violence are among these.Your loved one will not talk to you about their health. Whether it is out of concern for privacy, a soured relationship, or an inability to describe what they are experiencing, older adults sometimes do not let relatives help them. A geriatric care manager gives them someone they feel comfortable talking to about their health. You are having trouble communicating with service providers. Geriatric care managers have a better understanding of where other aging life care professionals are coming from, so if you have run into a wall in negotiations or are not able to get the information you are looking for, your care manager is in a position to communicate more effectively.You do not know what to do. Caring for a loved one can be complicated for reasons beyond their health. We always want the best for them, but sometimes there are multiple pathways and it is not clear which one will be best. Geriatric care managers can provide their objective point of view to help your loved one receive the senior care that is right for themFinding Geriatric Care ManagersA geriatric care manager does not have to hold a state level license. But because many of them come from fields in health care, they elect to maintain their credentials. Care managers who come from social work often have to have active licensure in order to practice in their state.So on the one hand, a lack of certification or licensure is not necessarily a deal breaker. On the other hand, it is important that they can demonstrate their experience as aging life care professionals. If you are hiring a geriatric care manager, be sure to ask about the following:Do they have direct experience with managing issues specific to your loved one? This is especially important to cover in cases of severe injury or cognitive decline.Do they have experience with crisis care management? If your loved one is prone to seizures or is at high risk for falls or heart attacks, aging life care professionals need to know how to handle this type of emergency situation. Also ask them if they are available to respond around the clock, or if they have set hours.How will they communicate information to you? It might seem like a tedious question, but being on the same page about communication methods and styles can save everyone a lot of frustration and confusion.Can they provide references? It can be hard to really understand who you are working with based on their resume alone. Talking to people who know them well is a good way to corroborate your first impressions.How are their costs and fees structured? Senior care can be expensive it is typically not covered under Medicare or most other insurance plans so it is important to understand how much things will cost up front. Geriatric care managers charge by the hour, typically within a range of $75200 per hour.When families turn to aging life care professionals for care management services, they need to know as much as possible about the roles and responsibilities of the people they are bringing into the fold. Geriatric care managers help families navigate the complexities of elder care and relieve them of the stress and anxiety that so often comes along with it. They are experienced in working with a variety of national and local resources, care providers, and care services to ensure the highest quality of life possible.Give me a call for a FREE 20 minute consultation at 714-403-7040. source: Keystone Health, 2024. https://keystone.health/geriatric-care-manager-role-responsibilities#table-of-contents
Welcome to Celebration Villa of Lakemont Farms, located in Bridgeville, Pennsylvania, where resident independence and overall wellness are at the heart of our community. Tucked away in a serene location with nature views, its surrounded by local businesses for family meals. We are conveniently near PA-50 East, with Giant Eagle and Washington Pike close by. Explore PNC Park, enjoy the views from Mount Washington, and experience the energy of events at PPG Paints Arena, all just a stones throw away. At Celebration Villa, residents enjoy a warm, family-like staff and a vibrant environment for socializing, hobbies, and relaxation.Celebration Villa of Lakemont Farms welcomes you to our community, where every detail is crafted for a stress-free lifestyle. Our cozy apartments feature soothing tones, soft carpeting, and ample natural light through large windows. Choose from deluxe suites, private studios, or friendly jack and jill arrangements to find your perfect fit. Nestled amidst the vibrant cultural landscape of Pittsburgh, residents enjoy furnished patios, secure walking paths, and a charming garden. As always, safety is a priority, with enclosed courtyards and pathways. Private rooms with spacious closets, well-appointed bathrooms, and abundant sunlight create personal sanctuaries. Our commitment is to provide a vibrant lifestyle and personalized care catering to your unique needs and well-being. The moment you arrive, you will find your needs are met with utmost attention and mindfulness.Types of Lifestyle:Enhanced Personal CareMemory CareShort-Term Respite StayHospice CoordinationAt Celebration Villa of Lakemont Farms, residents receive tailored care in order to live as independently as possible. Care services include support with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as dressing, bathing, and hygiene. Our knowledgeable team members coordinate with residents, family members, and healthcare professionals.Through personalized care and services, our dedicated team handles your household tasks and maintenance, which gives you the freedom to make the most of your time. Whether youre interested in fitness, music, social events, or discussing a great book with friends, our life enrichment programming awaits you.With our dedicated team, we provide tailored assistance that is readily available whenever you need it. This offers peace of mind for residents and families. Upon move-in and throughout your stay, we assess the activities of daily living (ADLs), such as dressing, bathing, and mobility, to create a personalized care plan.In our maintenance-free living environment, residents and their families can leave worries about home maintenance behind. No more replacing light bulbs or shoveling snow; we take care of the community inside and out, allowing residents to fully enjoy their retirement years.Culinary delights await as we serve up three delicious chef-prepared meals daily, along with snacks that nourish both body and soul. Dining in our welcoming dining rooms enhances mobility and socializing, but we also provide tray delivery during illness or as requested by doctors, always ensuring our residents well-being.We believe in providing a vibrant, caring, and worry-free community where residents can embrace their independence, stay engaged with life, and savor the moments that matter most. Join us, and experience a journey thats both enriching and fulfilling. Contact us to schedule a tour!
Welcome to Celebration Villa of Lakemont Farms, located in Bridgeville, Pennsylvania, where resident independence and overall wellness are at the heart of our community. Tucked away in a serene location with nature views, its surrounded by local businesses for family meals. We are conveniently near PA-50 East, with Giant Eagle and Washington Pike close by. Explore PNC Park, enjoy the views from Mount Washington, and experience the energy of events at PPG Paints Arena, all just a stones throw away. At Celebration Villa, residents enjoy a warm, family-like staff and a vibrant environment for socializing, hobbies, and relaxation.Celebration Villa of Lakemont Farms welcomes you to our community, where every detail is crafted for a stress-free lifestyle. Our cozy apartments feature soothing tones, soft carpeting, and ample natural light through large windows. Choose from deluxe suites, private studios, or friendly jack and jill arrangements to find your perfect fit. Nestled amidst the vibrant cultural landscape of Pittsburgh, residents enjoy furnished patios, secure walking paths, and a charming garden. As always, safety is a priority, with enclosed courtyards and pathways. Private rooms with spacious closets, well-appointed bathrooms, and abundant sunlight create personal sanctuaries. Our commitment is to provide a vibrant lifestyle and personalized care catering to your unique needs and well-being. The moment you arrive, you will find your needs are met with utmost attention and mindfulness.Types of Lifestyle:Enhanced Personal CareMemory CareShort-Term Respite StayHospice CoordinationAt Celebration Villa of Lakemont Farms, residents receive tailored care in order to live as independently as possible. Care services include support with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as dressing, bathing, and hygiene. Our knowledgeable team members coordinate with residents, family members, and healthcare professionals.Through personalized care and services, our dedicated team handles your household tasks and maintenance, which gives you the freedom to make the most of your time. Whether youre interested in fitness, music, social events, or discussing a great book with friends, our life enrichment programming awaits you.With our dedicated team, we provide tailored assistance that is readily available whenever you need it. This offers peace of mind for residents and families. Upon move-in and throughout your stay, we assess the activities of daily living (ADLs), such as dressing, bathing, and mobility, to create a personalized care plan.In our maintenance-free living environment, residents and their families can leave worries about home maintenance behind. No more replacing light bulbs or shoveling snow; we take care of the community inside and out, allowing residents to fully enjoy their retirement years.Culinary delights await as we serve up three delicious chef-prepared meals daily, along with snacks that nourish both body and soul. Dining in our welcoming dining rooms enhances mobility and socializing, but we also provide tray delivery during illness or as requested by doctors, always ensuring our residents well-being.We believe in providing a vibrant, caring, and worry-free community where residents can embrace their independence, stay engaged with life, and savor the moments that matter most. Join us, and experience a journey thats both enriching and fulfilling. Contact us to schedule a tour!
Welcome to Celebration Villa of South Hills, a place that feels just like home. Imagine a cozy apartment painted in neutral tones, soft carpet, and plenty of natural light pouring in through a large window. With a private bathroom and spacious closet, weve designed every detail with a stress-free lifestyle in mind. Whether you choose a studio or a one-bedroom unit, we have an option for everyone. Outside, residents and families enjoy our inviting and lush outdoor areas. This isnt just a place to live; its a caring community thats tailored to provide support to each individual.Our commitment is to provide a vibrant lifestyle and personalized care catering to your unique needs and well-being. The moment you arrive, you will find your needs are met with utmost attention and mindfulness.Types of Lifestyle:Enhanced Personal CareIndependent LivingShort-Term Respite StayHospice CoordinationNestled in a serene location just off Rt 51, Celebration Villa of South Hills invites you to embark on a journey of tranquility. With three beautiful outdoor areas, our residents have the opportunity to immerse themselves in gardening or relish the delightful company of family and friends. As you step inside, youll be greeted by a staff that doesnt just provide care they become family. Our vibrant environment provides the perfect backdrop for residents to socialize, discover new hobbies, or simply unwind with a captivating book.At Celebration Villa of South Hills, you can live your best life! Through personalized care and services, our dedicated team handles your household tasks and maintenance, which gives you the freedom to make the most of your time. Whether youre interested in fitness, music, social events, or discussing a great book with friends, our life enrichment programming awaits you.With our dedicated team, we provide tailored assistance that is readily available whenever you need it. This offers peace of mind for residents and families. Upon move-in and throughout your stay, we assess the activities of daily living (ADLs), such as dressing, bathing, and mobility, to create a personalized care plan.In our maintenance-free living environment, residents and their families can leave worries about home maintenance behind. No more replacing light bulbs or shoveling snow; we take care of the community inside and out, allowing residents to fully enjoy their retirement years.Culinary delights await as we serve up three delicious chef-prepared meals daily, along with snacks that nourish both body and soul. Dining in our welcoming dining rooms enhances mobility and socializing, but we also provide tray delivery during illness or as requested by doctors, always ensuring our residents well-being.At Celebration Villa of South Hills, we believe in providing a vibrant, caring, and worry-free community where residents can embrace their independence, stay engaged with life, and savor the moments that matter most. Join us, and experience a journey thats both enriching and fulfilling.Contact us to schedule a tour today!