Pet Friendly Senior Living Benefits All Animal LoversBy: Country Meadows |  Senior LivingThe bond between humans and animals is complex and deeply rooted. Studies have shown time and time again that animal companions can offer numerous benefits for people of all ages and can be a valuable tool in healthy aging. In pet friendly senior living, furry friends enhance the overall quality of life for residents.Some retirement communities like Country Meadows offer pet friendly senior living. For residents who dont have a pet of their own, each campus has house pets for everyone to love, spoil and enjoy. And Dynamic Living teams plan visits to and from animal rescue groups, volunteer opportunities to make pet toys and treats and special events such as dog weddings and furry sweethearts.Pets provide many benefits, including:CompanionshipPets provide companionship and emotional support, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation that some seniors may experience. A pet friendly senior living community provides many opportunities to interact with animals, whether individual pets or therapy animals.Stress reductionInteracting with pets has been shown to lower stress levels and promote relaxation, which can be especially valuable for seniors dealing with the challenges of aging. Staff at a pet friendly senior living community can help older adults provide care for beloved furry friends when needed.Physical activityHaving a pet encourages regular physical activity, such as walking dogs or playing with cats, which can help seniors stay active and maintain a healthier lifestyle.Social interactionPets can serve as conversation starters, fostering connections between residents and encouraging social interactions within the community. At pet friendly senior living, meeting neighbors animals is a great way to break the ice, start conversations and make new friends.Routine and structureTaking care of a pet can establish a daily routine and provides a sense of purpose, providing responsibility and stability.Improved mental healthSeveral studies have shown that pets boost mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, contributing to overall mental well-being. Pet friendly senior living provides many opportunities for residents to interact with animals, whether the pet lives on campus, is visiting or is part of an educational presentation.Cognitive stimulationInteracting with pets can stimulate cognitive functions, such as memory and problem-solving skills, which are essential for maintaining mental sharpness in our later years. Activities involving animals are effective in helping residents living with dementia in pet friendly senior living.Even if a resident chooses not to own their own furry friend, various animal-related activities are planned to provide opportunities for seniors to interact with pets. Some of these activities include:Pet therapyAnimals certified in therapy, such as dogs, cats, rabbits, birds and even reptiles, visit pet friendly senior living communities to interact with residents. Therapy animals are known for their gentle temperament and are specifically trained to provide comfort and companionship. Residents can pet, cuddle or simply spend time with animals.Educational presentationsSome pet friendly senior living facilities invite animal experts to bring a variety of animals such as exotic birds, reptiles, small mammals and others, for residents to interact with and learn about.Volunteer opportunitiesMany residents at pet friendly senior living communities enjoy supporting local animal rescues. At Country Meadows, residents make dog biscuits for local shelters as well as toys and treats. And residents look forward to visiting shelters in their respective areas to donate items in person and meet shelter residents.BirdwatchingRegardless of whether or not one lives at a pet friendly senior living community, birdwatching is a fun opportunity to observe and enjoy local birds. At Country Meadows, residents often enjoy birding walks during which experts point out different birds, talk about their unique traits and educate residents about local habitats.Special activitiesPet friendly senior living communities like Country Meadows are able to offer unique interactions with various types of animals. At Country Meadows of Wyomissing, residents enjoyed a therapeutic puppy yoga session, which was more about cuddling than yoga. At the Forks in Easton location, residents spent their Valentines Day receiving pooch smooches from local shelter dogs, while at Country Meadows of Wyomissing, residents were invited to attend a doggie wedding.AquariumsHaving an aquarium in common areas or resident apartments can be therapeutic. Watching colorful fish swim can be relaxing and help reduce anxiety and stress. Aquariums often can be found regardless of whether or not a community offers pet friendly senior living.Pet friendly living at Country MeadowsWith research demonstrating that seniors benefit from regular animals, Country Meadows offers pet friendly senior living at each of its nine locations in Pennsylvania and one in Frederick, Maryland. Please contact us today to request information or to schedule a visit to meet our residents-human, canine, feline and avian! We look forward to meeting you.

Keeping Independent Senior Living Costs AffordableBy: Country Meadows |  Independent LivingAs people plan for the future, one common goal among older adults is to maintain independence in the comfort of their own homes for as long as possible. However, life is unpredictable, and there may come a time when seniors find themselves in need of a little extra support with everyday tasks or simply crave companionship. Independent living is designed for seniors who are generally healthy and active, but prefer a community setting that offers convenience, social engagement with others and amenities such as meals or recreational activity programs. Independent senior living costs can vary widely based on several factors such as location, amenities, additional services provided and type of housing.Housing typeThe type of housing a senior chooses can significantly impact independent senior living costs. When seeking information on various types of housing, seniors will find options that may include apartments, cottages, condominiums or single-family homes. Larger or more luxurious accommodations typically come at a cost with higher fees.LocationParticular geographic areas can influence overall expenses. Independent senior living in urban or high-demand locations will have higher costs than those in rural areas, as is the case in private homes or rental properties. For example, independent senior living in New York City will come at a much higher rate than living in rural Pennsylvania.AmenitiesIndependent senior living costs often include a range of amenities and services such as fitness centers, activities programs, housekeeping, laundry and transportation services. The more extensive and upscale the amenities, the higher the cost may be. Consider which amenities are important to you and your loved one when choosing senior living accommodations.Meal plansSome independent living communities offer meal plans as part of their services. The cost of these plans can vary based on the number of meals provided each day as well as dining options available, such as special meals where premium menu items such as filet mignon or lobster are offered.Utilities and maintenanceIndependent senior living costs may include utilities and maintenance services in their fees, as is the case at Country Meadows Retirement Communities. Others may have separate charges for these services, which is why its essential to clarify items included in the monthly fee.Healthcare servicesWhile independent living is designed for seniors who are relatively healthy, some communities offer healthcare services or have arrangements with healthcare providers and vendors such as nursing agencies and medical specialists. Additional healthcare services may come with extra costs.Community fees and depositsThere are several different types of senior living communities, and with those come a wide variety of costs. A Continuing Care Retirement Community, also known as a CCRC, may require a large entrance fee for admission as well as a monthly charge to guarantee service availability at every level of care. Other senior living facilities may require a community fee in addition to monthly charges. This fee may cover administrative costs, reserve funds or contribute to community improvements.Social and recreational activitiesAccess to social and recreational activities may be included in the monthly fee at some senior living communities, such as Country Meadows Vibe program. Some independent senior living costs might include higher fees for organized events, outings, entertainment, classes and fitness services.Transportation servicesTransportation services for medical appointments, shopping trips and social outings may be included in independent senior living pricing at some communities. At other locations, transportation services may be billed separately depending on a variety of factors such as distance and time of day.Security and safety featuresIndependent senior living costs typically include secured building entrances and 24-hour emergency response systems in private apartments. Additional security features which might incur higher fees are 24/7 medical alert systems and security personnel, which can significantly impact cost.Its crucial for seniors and their families to thoroughly review the costs of each community. Additionally, considering the long-term financial implications, including any potential increases in fees, is important when evaluating the affordability of senior independent living.Stop by one of Country Meadows Retirement Communities nine campuses in Pennsylvania or one in Frederick, Md., to pay us a visit. For information about any of our locations or services, or to ask a Question, please reach out to our expert advisors. Were here to help! Country Meadows

Talking to your parents about independent living communitiesBy: Country Meadows | cost of senior living, For Adult Children, Independent Living, Senior Living, senior living communitiesFor adults with aging parents, there are several difficult although necessary conversations that must be had around planning for the future. One of those conversations is about making the transition to senior living. And with multiple care factors to consider and a range of options for independent living communities to choose from, this discussion may seem all the more daunting. At Country Meadows, we have decades of experience in helping families make the right decisions for their senior living journey. Here of some ways to help ease into the conversation of planning for senior living.Find the right time and use the right toneWhen discussing sensitive subjects, especially ones so deeply personal, its best to enter the conversation knowing that it may not be easy for either yourself or your aging loved one. Be sure to find a time where there are no other distractions and you can sit down and have a meaningful experience. For instance, attempting to have this discussion during a family function or before an important event may cause clouded judgement as its already such a momentous time. If this is the very first time youll be having a conversation about independent living communities, these preparations can make all the difference in how your words are received. Its also important to understand there may be resistance from your parents or loved one when discussing independent living communities. If the discussion becomes emotional, be sure to stay calm while directing the conversation. Do your own research on independent living communitiesIts a good idea to walk into a situation prepared, and discussing independent living communities with your parents is no different. Researching amenities, activities and levels of available care if needed will help you provide solid answers when questions arise. Additionally, understanding the differences in pricing among the many independent living communities available will help you be realistic about what options are affordable. Once your parents are ready to be a part of the process, youll already be prepared for a more positive prospecting experience.   Anticipate what your parents are looking for in independent living communitiesWhile your parents or elders may not have explicitly expressed what theyre looking for in a senior living community experience, there are reference points that can help you understand what they may need from independent living communities. For instance, gauging their level of independence will be important when it comes to determining the type of care that theyll need now or in the future and this may differ from what your parents feel their level of independence is. Knowing, however, what aspects within the independent living communities youre researching may bring a compromise between your points of view. This can help to keep these conversations respectful of what you feel is best and also what your parents wishes are. If you know that your parents are social, active or enjoy dining out often, leading your research with independent living communities that feature those amenities can be a great entry point.  Be ready to have multiple discussionsRome wasnt built in a day, and its very likely that planning retirement wont happen in a single sitting either. There are many aspects that go into making a decision on senior living. Between the initial conversation, understanding the options available, visiting prospective campuses and financial considerations, there will be a lot of time invested in the process. Outside of these factors, the emotional aspects may leave you having to revisit this conversation with your loved ones either when theyre ready to think about independent living communities or when theyre willing to at least continue the discussion. Being able to listen and empathize will be very important in ensuring that everyone feels respected and heard.Ultimately, understanding your parents emotional needs in addition to their physical needs will be crucial in navigating these difficult conversations effectively. And when youre ready to make a decision on independent living communities, Country Meadows is here to help. With nine locations in Pennsylvania and one in Frederick, Maryland, Country Meadows has consistently been recognized as one of the best independent living communities for seniors. Not only are our independent living communities affordable, but theyre also designed for each resident to feel connected to neighbors while still having space all their own. Our campuses are pet friendly, as well, so residents can bring their furry friends along. In addition to independent living communities, Country Meadows also offers many different services including memory support, rehabilitation services, assisted living and personal care as well as restorative care options. With this comprehensive approach, our independent living communities are able to give a range of care to all residents. If you or a loved one are looking for more information on independent living communities or specifically more information on Country Meadows, contact us today. We can help you learn more about the services we offer, schedule a tour of our independent living communities and answer any questions you may have. We look forward to hearing from you.  

Lets Stay Together: Comparing Retirement Communities for Different Care NeedsBy: Country Meadows |  Retirement CommunityCouples who have been together for decades have a deep bond and a desire to continue living together in a retirement community. When individual care needs vary, many retirement communities, such as Country Meadows, strive to support and accommodate these long-term relationships.Factors to keep in mind when comparing retirement communitiesLevels of care: Look for communities that provide various levels of assistance and support, such as independent living, personal care, memory support and skilled nursing, when comparing retirement communities. For example, if one member of a couple requires more assistance with activities of daily living, the retirement community may provide assistance with tasks such as bathing, dressing and medication management. At the same time, the other member of the couple may be able to live more independently and take advantage of social activities and amenities.Having several levels of care on the same campus can allow couples to continue living together while accessing the appropriate level of care for each individuals needs.Shared living: Inquire about policies regarding shared living arrangements for couples with different care needs when comparing retirement communities. Ask whether its possible for one partner to receive care and support within the same living unit or nearby, allowing the couple to remain together.Location: Consider the location when comparing retirement communities. Is it in a desirable area close to amenities, healthcare facilities and social activities? Think about your proximity to family and friends as well.Support services: When comparing retirement communities, consider the level of healthcare and support services available within the community. Does it have on-site healthcare professionals, access to medical care, assistance with activities of daily living and emergency response systems? Evaluate whether the community can meet current and future healthcare needs for both partners.Amenities and services: Assess the amenities and services offered when comparing retirement communities. Look for facilities offering things that are important to both individuals to meet varying hobbies and interests. These might include fitness centers, swimming pools, libraries, social and recreational activities, transportation services, housekeeping and maintenance. Determine which amenities are important to you and match your lifestyle.Dining options: Food is one of lifes great indulgences, so when comparing retirement communities, also compare meal quality. How many meals are offered each day? Are snacks and guest meals available? Are various dietary needs accommodated? Make arrangements to have a meal at retirement communities you are seriously considering to, literally, get a taste of that lifestyle.Housing options: When comparing retirement communities, explore the range of housing accommodations available, such as all-rental apartments, villas, townhomes or cottages. Consider the size, layout and features of the units. Evaluate whether the accommodations suit your preferences, offer enough room for two individuals and any potential future needs, such as accessibility or modifications.Financial considerations: When comparing retirement communities, you may come across many financial models which may be confusing. Understand the costs involved with each care level, including upfront fees, monthly rental and additional charges for services or amenities. Review the financial stability of the community and consider long-term affordability.Emotional and spiritual support: At Country Meadows, on-staff chaplains offer counseling and services honoring various spiritual traditions. When comparing retirement communities, look for those that provide emotional support and counseling for couples to help navigate the challenges and transitions of aging together.Community culture and activities: Understand the community culture and the types of activities and social events offered when comparing retirement communities. Attend community events to get a sense of the atmosphere and the opportunity to engage with other residents. Determine if the community aligns with your interests and promotes an active and fulfilling lifestyle.Resident feedback and reviews: Seek out feedback from current residents and their families and read online reviews. When comparing retirement communities, these simple inquiries can provide insights into the experiences of those already living in the community.Staff and management: When comparing retirement communities, you will probably meet with members of the marketing and management teams during your initial visit. Be sure to note their friendliness, responsiveness and professionalism. Inquire about staff-to-resident ratios and the availability of co-workers for assistance and support.By considering these factors, you can make a more informed decision when comparing retirement communities to find one that aligns with both partners lifestyle, preferences and needs. Its important to visit multiple locations, ask questions and involve both partners in the decision-making process to find the best fit.Country Meadows has nine locations in Pennsylvania and one campus in Frederick, Maryland. We offer a wide range of services to serve a variety of resident needs including restorative care, rehabilitation, personal care and assisted living, memory support and independent living services. If you or a loved one are beginning the retirement planning journey and would like more information about our communities, please contact us today. Were here to help.Country Meadows

More than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimers, and that number is expected to reach 13 million by 2050. Although dementia treatment can lessen the impact of symptoms on daily life (and promising new drugs may slow the progression of dementia), currently there isnt a cure or a way to prevent the disease that affects memory, thinking and behavior.Common dementia treatment options include:Medication options for dementia treatmentMedications are commonly used to treat symptoms of Alzheimers disease and other dementias. Symptoms include cognitive (memory and thinking) issues, behavioral changes and sleep problems.Recently, there have been exciting breakthroughs in dementia treatment. New medications are showing promise at slowing the progression of dementia. These include anti-amyloid antibody intravenous (IV) infusion therapies for people in the early stages of dementia.When considering medication options for dementia treatment, questions to ask your loved ones doctor include:How does this medication treat the symptom(s)?How will you measure its effectiveness?What are the potential side effects? When should we contact you if we notice changes?How will this drug interact with existing treatments for other conditions?What options are available if insurance does not cover this drug?A Person-centered approachA person-centered approach complements medical dementia treatment by addressing behaviors that often stem from an unmet human need. Executive Director of Memory Support Services for Country Meadows Retirement Communities, Joel Kroft, explains, All behavior has purpose and meaning, and all humans use behavior as part of our normal communication with others. When we recognize that behaviors are often expressing an unmet need, either physical or emotional, then we can work toward understanding instead of frustration. If we meet the unmet need that is being expressed, then that behavior often goes away. Through this person-centered care lens, we can minimize or eliminate many challenging behaviors that are really just our residents expressing their needs, without the use of medications, and improve the quality of life for our residents living with dementia.Validation MethodThe Validation Method is a technique and a philosophy for dementia care created from the person-centered care practice of the late, Naomi Fell. This approach accepts the reality of the person with dementia rather than trying to force him/her to accept ours.Family, friends and caregivers learn how to listen with empathy and ask questions that allow the person with dementia to more fully express frustrations and concerns with dignity. By being accepting and compassionate, these conversations can help reduce anxiety and worries in the person with dementia and often improve connection with others.Learn how Country Meadows has embraced the Validation Method in our commitment to quality memory care.Technological toolsTechnology is offering exciting new tools for dementia treatment. The innovative Tovertafel (Tover Table) is an interactive game console that projects dynamic images onto a table or floor for participants to touch.At Country Meadows, use of the Tover Table has been shown to increase alertness and focus, reduce restlessness and tense behaviors including sundowning and promote social and physical activity in residents with dementia. For families, it enhances connections in a fun and meaningful way.

As we age, taking a tumble carries with it many more risks than embarrassment.Every year millions of people over the age of 65 experience a fall whether residing in retirement living or a private home. Falling is one of the most common causes of injuries and hospitalization for seniors, and injuries from falls can be painful, threaten independence, cause disability, and even death.Retirement living fall risksRisk factors for falls in older adults in retirement living include increasing age, medication use and side effects, cognitive impairment, and sensory deficits. As we age, physical changes that impact vision, strength, and balance also can increase the risk of falling, and falls can result in moderate to severe injuries from hip fractures to head traumas to death.Preventing falls in retirement livingThe National Institute on Aging (NIH), recommends these steps to prevent falls:Stay physically active.Have your eyes and hearing tested.Review medical side effects.Get enough sleep.Stand up slowly.Use assistive devices if you need help feeling steady when walking.Wear non-skid, rubber-soled shoes or lace-up shoes with non-skid soles that fully support your feet.The best retirement communities proactively find ways to minimize risks before a fall occurs. Country Meadows Retirement Communities created a Falls Prevention Task Force comprised of representatives from Occupational and Physical Therapy, Fitness, Safety, and Nursing who meet regularly and provide retirement living co-workers the tools to target and reduce the number of falls.Every Country Meadows retirement living employee is empowered to report changes they observe in individual residents such as confusion and difficulty standing or walking in assisted living facilities. Periodic holistic reviews of each retirement living residents health and physical abilities enable co-workers to address potential issues before a fall. Prevention measures could include changing the environment by removing clutter or adding lighting. Adaptive equipment such as belts or mechanical transfer devices or walkers may be used to assist with safety.The fear of falling factorThe fear of falling may cause a person in even the most active adult communities to limit activity which can decrease strength, balance, and endurance over time and actually increase the risk of falling. Becoming fearful of a fall can prevent a resident from participating in activities. Theyll say, Oh, I dont want to go, because they are beginning to doubt their ability to take part, so it really affects their well-being. Loss of balance quickly becomes a quality-of-life issue, says Kim Eichinger, Country Meadows executive director of Dynamic Living.Fear of falling is a risk that can be nearly as bad as a fall itself since it interferes with quality of life. In addition to limiting activity involvement, retirement living residents who fear falling also may experience feelings of social isolation and loneliness.Empowering retirement living residentsCountry Meadows Falls Prevention Task Force created a retirement living falls database to track falls to analyze commonalities that may predict risk factors. The data revealed that retirement living residents are at high risk for falling when getting into or out of the chair.To boost retirement living residents confidence, Country Meadows Fitness team created Stand Up to Stop Falls a fitness program to encourage and provide retirement living residents with opportunities to regain and/or maintain the skills they need to safely transition from sitting to standing and back. The program targets specific skills related to movement as well as range of motion and muscle development that seniors need to safely get in and out of chairs. A key benefit of the program is that it gives retirement living residents the opportunity to play a role in preventing falls and maintaining their independence.What takes the Stand Up to Stop Falls program from ordinary to extraordinary is that it is a proactive intervention that feels more like fun than treatment. The routines are set to music, designed to be socially engaging, lively, and unique to retirement living locations.When seniors are confident in their ability to make that transition from sitting to standing, they are more likely to participate in everything from bus trips to movies and even exercise classes, says Eichinger. Staying active literally is the key to staying active.When falls-related intervention is needed in retirement livingA laser focus on fall incidents puts an emphasis on prevention and empowers retirement living employees and residents to prevent falls. When a fall occurs at Country Meadows, the root cause must be identified and recorded in the Falls Prevention Task Force database. Retirement living co-workers then work together to determine steps that can prevent the individual from experiencing a future fall.Interventions are individualized to each retirement living resident and might include:DeclutteringProviding floor matsRecommending more appropriate footwearReviewing medications for side effectsConsulting therapy services to address strength and/or flexibility losses.Click here to learn more about retirement living at Country MeadowsWritten by Country Meadows

Assisted Living Tours: Find the Right Fit for Your Loved OneBy: Country Meadows |  Assisted LivingWe spend our entire lives raising families, managing households, working, balancing checkbooks and making countless decisions. As we age, these everyday duties can become more and more challenging. Making a well-informed and thoughtful choice about assisted living for yourself or a loved one is a significant decision that can impact overall well-being. Too often people wait until a crisis occurs, necessitating a quick decision when selecting senior living. Preparing for assisted living by researching options and taking assisted living tours allows individuals to thoughtfully select senior living accommodations.There are many reasons why visiting and taking assisted living tours in advance are important.Facility atmospherePaying visits and taking in-person assisted living tours allow you to see for yourself the overall atmosphere and ambience of the community. This includes noting cleanliness and the layout as well as the general feeling of the environment. This firsthand experience can provide insights into whether a community is a good fit for personal preferences and comfort.Staff interactionDuring assisted living tours, meeting staff members and interacting with current residents can provide valuable insights. Note the level of professionalism, friendliness and responsiveness of the staff while gauging the overall satisfaction and happiness of residents. Pay attention to staff achievements and organizational awards such as certifications in programs that recognize great places to work.Establishing relationships with co-workers and management during a visit provides customers with insights as to the teams willingness to communicate and work with residents and their families, fostering a sense of trust and confidence in the care to be provided.Services and amenitiesAssisted living communities offer various services and amenities. By visiting and taking assisted living tours, you can personally evaluate the quality and context of services offered, such as dining options, activities, care, transportation and other options. This helps ensure the facility meets specific needs and expectations.Care philosophyEvery assisted living community may have a unique approach to delivering care. By visiting and taking assisted living tours, you can ask thoughtful questions and gain a better understanding of the facilitys care philosophy to determine if it aligns with expectations.Safety and accessibilityTaking assisted living tours helps seniors assess safety and accessibility features in a community. This may include building layout, emergency response system options and general safety measures and policies. Understanding these aspects is vital for ensuring a secure living environment.Stress and anxietyKnowing and being familiar with potential living arrangements in advance reduces the stress and anxiety associated with making urgent decisions. Taking assisted living tours provides familiarity with the location and offers a sense of security during what can be a challenging time.Good fitUltimately, assisted living tours help prospective residents ensure the community is a good fit for individual wants and needs. Factors such as cultural compatibility, community engagement and overall feel of the environment is subjective and only can be assessed through direct experience.Time for questionsDuring assisted living tours, visitors have the chance to ask questions and seek clarification about various aspects of what everyday life will be like in the community. This helps individuals obtain detailed information about policies, costs and other factors that help customers make informed decisions.Plan for the futureVisiting and taking assisted living tours before a crisis allows individuals opportunities for better long-term planning. It provides the time to explore different options, compare facilities and make decisions based on careful consideration rather than under the pressure of urgent circumstances.Country Meadows

Did you know there are financial assistance programs available to veterans who need assisted living care? Our veterans made numerous sacrifices to uphold the freedom we enjoy today while their families kept the home fires burning. They are entitled to many benefits in appreciation for all they endured for America.Veterans benefits for senior living are available for qualifying veterans and their surviving spouses, as long as the veteran served at least 90 days of active duty, including at least one day during a wartime period, and received an honorable or general discharge.Veterans Aid and Attendance for assisted living careOffered through the Department of Veterans Affairs, Aid and Attendance is a monthly pension benefit that can help cover the costs of assisted living care. It is available for wartime veterans and their spouses who have limited income and require the regular attendance of a caregiver.Aid and Attendance is designed for individuals who need assistance from another person to complete everyday activities such as bathing, dressing and assistance with other daily activities. A veterans need for this benefit does not need to be the result of their military service.Funds received from Aid and Attendance benefits can offer a monthly benefit to help pay for assisted living and long-term care for a qualifying veteran and their spouse. The actual monthly benefit is determined by the veterans assets, income and medical expenses and conditions.Contact your local county Veterans Services office with questions on how to apply by visiting www.benefits.va.gov/vso.MedicareMedicare will pay for short-term care at nursing and rehabilitation facilities for seniors who need these services after an illness or injury that requires hospitalization. Medicare does not cover the cost for assisted living, home care or other senior living services.Long-Term Care BenefitsThe Veterans Administration provides both short- and long-term care in skilled nursing settings for veterans who cannot care for themselves. This benefit does not cover assisted living or home care.Housebound BenefitsVeterans confined to their homes and requiring assisted living care may be best suited to receive Housebound benefits. This program provides an increased monthly pension amount for those confined to their home due to a permanent disability.Applying for BenefitsThe Veterans Administration has regional offices that provide Veteran Service Organization representatives who may be able to answer simple questions about assisted living benefits, as well as provide free, basic advice on the application process.Many veterans seeking advice on applying for assisted living benefits hire a qualified attorney accredited by the VA or an accredited claims agent, who has passed a written exam about VA laws and procedures.The application process for assisted living benefits is often very lengthy. It is important to be thorough when completing the application and have all required documentation gathered and ready to submit.There are additional financial options to pay for assisted living care for individuals who do not qualify for veterans benefit. Click to find out more about financial options for senior living.Country Meadows offers affordable assisted living or personal care on its nine campuses in Pennsylvania and one in Frederick, Maryland. Our friendly co-workers are always available to help! Contact us today for more information.

Moving to a personal care home is a big decision based on many factors. Cold winter months are drawing near, and the Farmers Almanac is forecasting a Winter Wonderland for the northeastern United States. Keeping this in mind, and to avoid winter chores, this is a great time to consider a respite stay and experience first-hand what life is like living in a personal care home.Experience an easier moveWinter weather conditions like snow and ice can complicate the move to a personal care home. Moving before bad weather conditions arrive allows seniors to avoid potential weather-related delays, accidents or other challenges during transportation and when moving belongings.Try out the personal care homeRespite care offers seniors a chance to try out a retirement community without making a long-term commitment. Country Meadows offers all-rental retirement living accommodations, so seniors are not beholden to a lengthy lease or an ownership stake. A respite stay can help older adults see for themselves whether or not the community is a good fit for a permanent move.Avoid winter weather challengesMany older adults struggle with winter chores such as shoveling snow, chipping away ice, walking on icy sidewalks, managing heating systems and driving in inclement weather. A temporary respite stay at a personal care home eliminates these responsibilities, as well as many other daily chores, removing worries. It provides seniors the opportunity to settle into their new living arrangement without the added stress of winter weather.Access daily assistance and health servicesAlong with cold weather, the winter season can also bring several challenges for older adults to maintain wellness. A major benefit to living at a personal care home is prompt, easy access to health resources and assistance. This is especially beneficial for seniors with health concerns and mobility issues. If a resident requires assistance with medications, dressing, bathing or another daily activity, simply push a call button and a personal care associate can provide needed help. And a wellness team keeps an eye on each residents overall health.Reduce lonelinessMany seniors experience loneliness and isolation while living at home. The winter months can magnify these feelings. Respite care offers opportunities for social interaction and engagement with new neighbors and friends in the same age group, reducing feelings of loneliness and providing mental stimulation.Participate in activities, enjoy entertainment and outingsSenior living communities often offer a variety of enriching activities and events. At Country Meadows, our Vibe program considers each residents physical, cognitive, social and spiritual needs and customizes activities, entertainment, outings and purposeful service opportunities. Events are organized seasonally by categories and offer opportunities for socialization and fun. When living at a personal care home, one doesnt need to brave the elements outside, because all the fun during winter is happening indoors, fostering a sense of belonging among residents.Provide relief for family caregiversA respite stay offers a break for family members and friends providing care in a seniors private home. This break is especially appreciated during winter months when private caregiving responsibilities might become more demanding due to inclement weather, illnesses or holiday-related activities.When considering respite care at a personal care home or retirement community over the winter months, its important to do some homework. Families and seniors should research and visit potential facilities to ensure the community can meet specific needs and preferences of each individual. The decision for respite care should prioritize the well-being, comfort and specific needs of each person, aiming to provide a supportive and enriching experience.  Contact Country Meadows Retirement Communities today.