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Senior care is a large spectrum of facilities and services with many different levels of care; and when beginning the conversation about senior living, it can be hard to know exactly what can be expected at each type of facility. Here, we will clarify what exactly assisted living is and who the best candidate is for an assisted living facility.
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Assisted living is what the name implies, a facility that residents live in that provides assistance for everyday living tasks. However, the level of care in these facilities can vary greatly, from providing meals and planning community events to full-time care; thus, it is important to identify your needs before moving forward with any particular facility.
According to the Overview, published by The National Center for Assisted Living, here’s what they found:
Most seniors who move into assisted living facilities move there with the intent to live the rest of their lives there. However, many assisted living facilities offer short-term care options. Doctors sometimes use these facilities as a form of outpatient care after surgery. Patients may need assistance with daily life tasks such as getting dressed or cooking in the wake of their procedure, however, after a period they will recover and return home.
CDC found the average length of stay for residents assisted living stays are as follows: 35% of residents stay one year or more, 16% stay 3 years or more, 15% stay over 5 years, 14% stay 6 months or less, 9% stay more than 3 months, and 9% less than 3 months.
Assisted living residents typically still manage their lives on their own except when they require assistance with daily activities and when their health begins to decline. Therefore, assisted living care homes help with housekeeping, transportation, toileting, dressing, and cooking.
Medical monitoring is available to help with medication management and other minor care they require.
In the CDC study, they found that kind of health residents living in assisted living experience the following: 5% are in excellent health, 16% are in very good health, 38% of the residents are in good health, 32% are in fair health, and 10% are in poor health.
Since seniors who live in assisted living facilities are typically quite independent, it is very common for them to both be able to drive still and keep cars in the facility use at their disposal. The Center for Disease Control (2010 study of Residential Care Facilities) found that 96% of all residents who first move into a facility can drive.
There may be some anxiety around sending your loved one to a facility where their native language is not spoken. However, this is no reason that they should be denied care and the CDC study found that 14% of the residents at assisted living facilities have limited English or no English at all.
There are a variety of ways that a language barrier can be crossed; a caregiver within the facility can speak the resident’s native language, a family member may be able to translate as needed, or the caregivers may use non-verbal cues and hand signals to communicate.
When caring for the non-English speaking resident, 56% of the Caregivers speak the resident’s native language.
29% of residents with limited English skills rely on family members to translate.
Of the residents with little English-speaking skills, 64% communicate with the staff using non-verbal cueing, hand signs, or gestures.
Married couples move into assisted living facilities together all the time. There are a few benefits to this. Both spouses are there to look after one another as well as it provides a continuum of care for the future if either need help at any time
Most assisted living communities for older adults to have age limits for admission, usually 55+. However, some will allow younger adults to move in depending on their age, diagnosis, disability, and compatibility with the general older population.
Assisted living communities are a good choice for seniors and people with physical disabilities who need help with tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating, taking medications, and using the restroom.
If a disability significantly limits mobility, then assisted living may not be a good choice because oftentimes residents live in independent suites or apartments in assisted living facilities.
Assisted living is not a good choice for people who are still able to live independently, as the unneeded services may result in a higher cost than independent living facilities. However, it can still be a good choice for those who are mostly independent now but will need support for daily living in the not-too-distant future, since many have programs and services designed to help seniors transition from a low level of care to a more comprehensive care plan.
Additionally, assisted living may not be a good choice for people with significant mobility constraints or in need of memory care unless the facility specifically caters to these needs.
Lastly, it is important to know if you or your loved one may be in need of memory care. If so, it is important to ensure your facility of choice has those options available.
Once you have decided that an assisted living facility is right for you or your loved one, check out our blog on 5 Tips to Finding the Right Senior Care Facility for You.
The holiday season is a time filled with joy and nostalgia, especially for seniors who have cherished memories of festive traditions. However, decorating for the holidays can also present challenges for seniors, particularly regarding safety and comfort. Ensuring a safe and joyful holiday environment is essential for seniors, and caregivers play a crucial role in making this happen. You want to explore more information about safe holiday decorating with seniors in mind. What Are Senior Needs?Seniors may experience physical limitations that affect their ability to decorate as they once did. These can include reduced mobility, balance issues, and decreased strength. You need to adapt holiday traditions to suit these changes, ensuring safety is a priority. There are minor changes you can make to accomplish this. Recognizing these needs helps prevent accidents and makes decorating a fun and inclusive activity.Choosing Age-Appropriate DecorWhen selecting decorations, choose items that are lightweight and easy to handle. Opt for non-breakable and flame-resistant materials to reduce the risk of accidents. Consider using battery-operated candles instead of traditional ones to prevent fire hazards. Incorporating sentimental and familiar items can also bring comfort and joy, allowing seniors to relive cherished memories without the need for heavy lifting or complex setups.Arranging Decorations SafelyTo minimize fall risks, secure any cords and avoid creating cluttered spaces. You want to place decorations at accessible heights, eliminating the need for seniors to reach or stretch excessively. Maintain clear pathways and ensure good lighting throughout decorated areas, making it easier for seniors to navigate their homes safely. These strategies help create a festive and hazard-free environment.Assisting With Challenging TasksSome decorating tasks may require caregiver assistance. Identify activities, like hanging decorations or reaching high places that could pose challenges for seniors. Use safe methods, such as step stools with handles, to hang decorations, ensuring stability and support. Encourage seniors to participate in decision-making and creative tasks, allowing them to stay engaged and involved without risking their safety.Engaging Seniors in the Decorating ProcessInvolving seniors in the planning and execution of holiday decor can be a rewarding experience. Engage them in activities like selecting themes, choosing decorations, or creating handmade ornaments. These activities offer emotional benefits, providing a sense of accomplishment and boosting their well-being. Encourage family involvement to create a communal experience, building connections and shared memories that make the holidays special.Decorate Safely for a Joyful Holiday SeasonCreating a joyful and safe holiday environment for seniors involves understanding their needs, choosing the appropriate decor, arranging items safely, and assisting with challenging tasks. Engaging seniors in the decorating process not only ensures safety but also enhances their holiday experience. For more support, consider contacting Senior Helpers Greeley. We provide professional caregiving assistance in Fort Collins, Loveland, Greeley, and Longmont, ensuring a safe and happy holiday season for seniors. Let us help you make this holiday season a safe and memorable one for your loved ones. If you have any questions, call us at 970-373-3858.
Our eyes are incredibly precious, yet its easy to take our vision for granted until problems arise. Lets focus on proactive steps to maintain and improve our eye health. Here are some tips to keep your vision in top shape:Schedule Regular Eye Exams:One of the best ways to safeguard your vision is by scheduling regular eye exams. Comprehensive eye exams can detect vision problems early on, allowing for prompt treatment and prevention of further complications. Make it a priority to see your eye doctor at least once a year, even if you dont currently wear glasses or contact lenses.Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays: Just like your skin, your eyes can be damaged by the suns harmful UV rays. Whenever youre outdoors, especially on bright, sunny days, wear sunglasses that offer UV protection. Look for sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays to shield your eyes from potential damage. Give Your Eyes a Break from Screens: In todays digital age, many of us spend a significant amount of time staring at screens, whether its for work, leisure, or staying connected. Prolonged screen time can lead to digital eye strain, characterized by symptoms like dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches. To reduce eye strain, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.Eat a Balanced Diet:Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining eye health. Incorporate foods rich in vitamins and antioxidants, such as leafy greens, colorful fruits and vegetables, fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, and nuts and seeds. These nutrients can help protect against age-related vision problems like macular degeneration and cataracts.Practice Good Eye Hygiene:Proper eye hygiene is essential for preventing eye infections and irritation. Wash your hands frequently, especially before touching your eyes or handling contact lenses. Follow your eye doctors recommendations for contact lens care, including proper cleaning, disinfecting, and storage.Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can contribute to dry eyes, so be sure to drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day. Aim for at least eight glasses of water daily to keep your eyes and body hydrated.Get Plenty of Sleep:Adequate sleep is crucial for overall health, including eye health. During sleep, your eyes receive much-needed rest and replenishment. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to help reduce eye fatigue and maintain optimal visual function.By incorporating these simple yet effective tips into your daily routine, you can help protect and preserve your precious eyesight for years to come.Your eyesight is irreplaceable, so take care of your eyes today for a brighter tomorrow!
Moving to a new home can be scary and stressful, especially for older people. But don't worry! Here are some easy ways to make moving day less scary and more fun.1. Pick the Right HomeFirst, choose a new home that feels good. Think about what you like. Do you want a garden view? Do you need help with cooking? Make sure your new home has what you need to be happy.2. Make ListsWrite down everything you need to do. This helps you remember important things. Start early and take your time. Don't rush!3. Choose Special ThingsWhen you move to a smaller home, you can't take everything. Pick the things that mean the most to you. It's okay to feel sad about leaving some things behind.4. Get Help from MoversHiring people to help you move can make things much easier. They know how to pack and move your stuff safely.5. Use Good BoxesUse boxes that stack well. Plastic boxes with lids are great because they're easy to pack and unpack.6. Say Goodbye to Your Old HomeHave a party to say goodbye to your old home. Take lots of pictures to remember it. This can help you feel better about moving.7. Think Happy ThoughtsMoving can be exciting! Think about all the fun new things you'll do in your new home. You might make new friends or try new activities.8. Pack a Special BagPack a bag with things you'll need right away in your new home. Put in things like:MedicineToothbrush and toothpastePajamasSnacks and waterThis way, you won't have to search through all your boxes on the first night.9. Make a Moving Day PlanPlan out your moving day. Know when you'll leave and when you should arrive at your new home. Don't forget to plan for breaks along the way.Remember, moving can be a big change, but it can also be the start of a great new adventure in your life!
Grace Pointe in Greeley, Colorado, stands at the forefront of assisted living, offering compassionate care and unparalleled support within a vibrant Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC). Nestled in the heart of Greeley, our community provides seniors with a nurturing environment where they can thrive and enjoy life to the fullest.At Grace Pointe, we understand that assisted living is about more than just receiving support with daily activities; it's about maintaining dignity, independence, and a sense of purpose. Our dedicated team of caregivers is committed to providing personalized care and assistance tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of each resident. Whether it's help with dressing, bathing, medication management, or simply a friendly smile and a listening ear, our caregivers are always there to lend a helping hand with compassion and respect.Our assisted living residences at Grace Pointe offer seniors the perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and security. Residents can choose from a variety of spacious floor plans, each thoughtfully designed to provide a warm and inviting environment where they can feel right at home. With amenities such as emergency call systems, 24-hour security, and cozy common areas for socializing, our assisted living residences offer peace of mind for both residents and their families.As part of our CCRC, Grace Pointe offers seniors the assurance of knowing that they have access to a full continuum of care services, should their needs change over time. From assisted living to memory care and skilled nursing, our community provides seamless transitions and comprehensive support, allowing residents to age in place with confidence and dignity.Health and wellness are top priorities at Grace Pointe. Our residents have access to a wide range of services and amenities designed to support their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. From nutritious dining options prepared by our talented culinary team to on-site wellness programs, fitness classes, and spiritual care services, we provide the resources and support our residents need to live their best lives.At Grace Pointe, we believe that life should be filled with joy, purpose, and meaningful connections. That's why our community offers a robust calendar of activities and events designed to promote engagement, socialization, and personal growth. Whether it's participating in group outings, attending educational seminars, or simply gathering with friends for a game night or movie screening, there's always something exciting happening at Grace Pointe.Our beautiful campus is a sanctuary of tranquility, with meticulously landscaped grounds, walking paths, and outdoor seating areas where residents can enjoy the beauty of nature and soak in the sunshine. With breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop, Grace Pointe offers seniors the perfect setting to relax, rejuvenate, and reconnect with the world around them.As part of the Grace Pointe community, residents enjoy the peace of mind of knowing that they are part of a supportive and caring community that values their independence, dignity, and well-being. Our team of dedicated professionals is committed to providing personalized attention and support to each and every resident, ensuring that their individual needs and preferences are always met.Discover the perfect blend of comfort, compassion, and community at Grace Pointe in Greeley, Colorado. Contact us today to schedule a tour and experience the unparalleled lifestyle our assisted living community has to offer. Welcome home to Grace Pointe.
Grace Pointe in Greeley, Colorado, is a beacon of hope and support for individuals and families navigating the challenges of memory loss. Our Memory Care Secured Unit, nestled within our esteemed Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), provides a safe, nurturing environment where residents can live with dignity, purpose, and compassion.Memory loss can be a daunting journey, but at Grace Pointe, we believe that every individual deserves to be treated with the utmost respect and dignity. Our Memory Care Secured Unit is specially designed to meet the unique needs of residents with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, and other memory-related conditions. With a team of dedicated caregivers trained in memory care techniques and best practices, we provide personalized support and assistance tailored to each resident's specific needs and preferences.Safety and security are top priorities in our Memory Care Secured Unit. Our state-of-the-art facility features secure access and monitoring systems, ensuring that residents are always safe and protected. From secure entrances and exits to enclosed outdoor spaces, we provide peace of mind for both residents and their families, knowing that their loved ones are in a safe and nurturing environment.Our Memory Care Secured Unit offers residents a comforting and familiar environment designed to promote independence, engagement, and overall well-being. Residents enjoy spacious and thoughtfully designed accommodations, providing a warm and inviting space where they can feel at home. With amenities such as cozy common areas, secure outdoor spaces, and life enrichment activities tailored to their unique interests and abilities, residents have every opportunity to thrive and live their best lives.As part of our CCRC, Grace Pointe offers the assurance of knowing that residents have access to a full continuum of care services, should their needs change over time. From memory care to assisted living and skilled nursing, our community provides seamless transitions and comprehensive support, allowing residents to age in place with dignity and grace.Health and wellness are at the forefront of our Memory Care Secured Unit. Our dedicated team of caregivers works closely with residents and their families to develop personalized care plans that address their unique needs and preferences. From medication management to assistance with activities of daily living and specialized memory care programming, we provide the support and resources our residents need to thrive.At Grace Pointe, we understand that memory loss affects not only individuals but also their families and loved ones. That's why we offer a range of support services and resources to help families navigate the challenges of memory care with confidence and peace of mind. From educational seminars and support groups to counseling services and respite care options, we are here to support families every step of the way.Our beautiful campus provides the perfect setting for residents to enjoy the beauty of Colorado's natural landscape. With meticulously landscaped grounds, walking paths, and secure outdoor spaces, residents can enjoy the sunshine and fresh air in a safe and nurturing environment.As part of the Grace Pointe community, residents of our Memory Care Secured Unit enjoy the peace of mind of knowing that they are part of a supportive and caring community that values their dignity, independence, and well-being. Our team of dedicated professionals is committed to providing personalized attention and support to each and every resident, ensuring that their individual needs and preferences are always met.Discover the compassionate care and support of our Memory Care Secured Unit at Grace Pointe in Greeley, Colorado. Contact us today to schedule a tour and experience the unparalleled lifestyle our community has to offer. Welcome home to Grace Pointe.
Grace Pointe in Greeley, Colorado, stands as a beacon of premier senior independent living, offering a vibrant community and a continuum of care. Nestled in the heart of Greeley, our Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) provides seniors with a fulfilling lifestyle, robust amenities, and peace of mind for the future.At Grace Pointe, we understand that independent living means different things to different people. That's why we offer a variety of spacious and comfortable living options, including apartments and cottages, to suit individual preferences and lifestyles. Whether you're looking for cozy charm or modern elegance, our residences provide the perfect blend of comfort and convenience.Our community is more than just a place to live; it's a vibrant hub of activity and connection. Residents at Grace Pointe enjoy a rich array of amenities and activities designed to promote engagement, wellness, and socialization. From fitness classes and art workshops to cultural outings and social events, there's always something exciting happening at our community.One of the hallmarks of Grace Pointe is our commitment to providing residents with the freedom and flexibility to live life on their terms. Our maintenance-free lifestyle allows seniors to say goodbye to the burdens of household chores and hello to more time for the things they love. Whether it's pursuing hobbies, spending time with family and friends, or exploring the local area, residents have the freedom to create their own schedule and make the most of each day.As a CCRC, Grace Pointe offers residents the peace of mind of knowing that they have access to a full continuum of care services, should their needs change over time. From independent living to assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing, our community provides seamless transitions and comprehensive support every step of the way.Health and wellness are top priorities at Grace Pointe. Our residents have access to a range of amenities and services designed to support their physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. From on-site fitness centers and wellness programs to nutritious dining options and spiritual care services, we provide the resources and support our residents need to live their best lives.Our beautiful campus is a haven of tranquility, with meticulously landscaped grounds, walking paths, and outdoor seating areas where residents can enjoy the beauty of nature and soak in the sunshine. With breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains as a backdrop, Grace Pointe offers seniors the perfect setting to relax, rejuvenate, and reconnect with the world around them.As part of the Grace Pointe community, residents enjoy the peace of mind of knowing that they are part of a supportive and caring community that values their independence, dignity, and well-being. Our team of dedicated professionals is committed to providing personalized attention and support to each and every resident, ensuring that their individual needs and preferences are always met.