Where You Live Matters – The Critical Role of Place in the Second Half of Life

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.

In the realm of senior care, the choice between a national chain and a family-owned personal care home can significantly impact the quality of life for residents and their families. Family-owned personal care homes offer a unique blend of personalized care, community integration, and emotional warmth that larger corporate facilities often struggle to replicate. Family-owned personal care homes are often established with a mission that transcends profit. These homes are typically founded by individuals or families who have a personal stake in providing high-quality care, often inspired by their own experiences with elder care. This personal investment translates into a care environment that feels more like a home than an institution.Personalized and Resident-Centered CareOne of the primary benefits of family-owned personal care homes is their ability to offer personalized, resident-centered care. Unlike larger facilities, where care can be standardized and impersonal, family-owned homes can tailor their services to meet the specific needs and preferences of each resident. This approach ensures that residents receive the attention and care they deserve, fostering a sense of dignity and respect.A Homelike EnvironmentFamily-owned personal care homes often provide a more homelike and comfortable environment compared to larger corporate facilities. The smaller scale of these homes allows for a more intimate setting where residents can form close relationships with staff and fellow residents. This sense of community can be incredibly beneficial for older adults, promoting social interaction and reducing feelings of isolation.Benefits for FamiliesThe advantages of choosing a family-owned personal care home extend beyond the residents themselves. Families also experience a range of benefits that can ease the transition and ongoing experience of having a loved one in care.Peace of MindKnowing that their loved ones are in a nurturing and attentive environment provides families with peace of mind. Family-owned homes often have a reputation for being more responsive and accessible, with owners and managers directly involved in day-to-day operations. This involvement ensures that any concerns or issues can be addressed promptly and personally.Enhanced Family RelationshipsWhen the burden of caregiving is shared with professionals in a family-owned personal care home, family relationships can improve. Families are free to focus on spending quality time with their loved ones rather than being overwhelmed by caregiving responsibilities. This shift can lead to more meaningful interactions and the creation of lasting memories.Cost-EffectivenessWhile cost is always a consideration, family-owned personal care homes can offer a more cost-effective solution compared to larger facilities or home modifications. These homes typically include a comprehensive package of services, which can be more economical than hiring private caregivers or adapting a home to meet an older adult's needs.The Impact on StaffA family-owned personal care home not only benefits residents and their families but also positively impacts the staff who work there.Empowered and Engaged StaffIn family-owned settings, staff members are often empowered to make decisions and respond to the needs of residents and their families. This empowerment leads to a more engaged and motivated workforce, which directly translates into better care for residents. Staff members in these environments are more likely to feel valued and respected, which enhances their job satisfaction and performance.A Sense of CommunityWorking in a family-owned personal care home often feels like being part of an extended family. The close-knit nature of these homes fosters a supportive work environment where staff members know each other and the residents personally. This familiarity and camaraderie can lead to a more harmonious and effective care environment.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, homelike environment, 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.Learn more about REWARD Senior Care and what makes our community unique as a family-owned and run personal care home in Turtle Creek.  We would love to meet you!  Contact us for a tour today.