Florida - Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte Counties

7 out of 10 people will eventually require assisted living care at some point in their lifetime, and currently, over 800,000 AMERICANSover the age of 65 reside in assisted living communities. In addition, the population of old adults is rapidly growing, which implies that over the next few decades, the demand for assisted living care will increase drastically. So what does assisted living provide for older adults? Aging in place in ones current home may be preferred, but age-related changes and cognitive decline can make it difficult for some older adults to live safely at home. In these situations, assisted living communities provide support with ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING (ADLS) and create opportunities for wellness and connection.The baby boomer generation has begun retiring and changing the expectations and culture surrounding senior housing accommodations, care, and amenities. HARBORCHASE SENIOR LIVING is proud to adapt to the eclectic values, lifestyles, and preferences of older adults to provide an exceptional senior living experience. Below, our team highlights what assisted living communities can provide to older adults looking to enhance their safety and wellness. Support with Activities of Daily LivingACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING (ADLS) are defined as the essential tasks a person must be able to perform in order to lead a safe and healthy lifestyle. The five basic ADLs include:Bathing and ShoweringDressingMobilityEatingContinenceWhen it becomes challenging to complete these tasks, it can diminish a persons safety, self-confidence, and overall quality of life. Fortunately, assisted living communities and team members assist with these tasks as needed. From medication management to assistance with bathing or dressing, older adults receive the help they need to live safer, healthier lives.Maintenance-Free LivingA persons home is a place of comfort, memories, and pride. Youve spent decades putting effort and time into each and every detail of your house to make it feel like home. But over time, the amount of upkeep that a house requires can add up and overwhelm even the most advanced homeowner. Appliances become dated and need to be replaced, the yard and landscaping need tending, and even everyday household chores can become a hassle. Assisted living communities offer maintenance and housekeeping services in order to provide residents with the opportunity to spend more time focusing on their passions, hobbies, and interests. Not only does this leave extra time in ones routine for leisure, but it can also provide a cost-effective benefit. For instance, consider the expenses needed to run a home lawn mowers and other tools, upkeep and maintenance costs, such as hiring plumbers or electricians, home repairs, etc. In an assisted living community, all these costs and services are provided at no additional cost.Socialization OpportunitiesOlder adults are more at risk than any other age group for loneliness and isolation, resulting in mental health issues like depression or anxiety. In fact, a REPORT from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) found that nearly one-fourth of adults over the age of 65 are considered to be socially isolated. The reasoning behind this isolation is due to factors that are more likely to affect adults in their later years, such as the loss of a spouse, changes to mobility, or other health conditions that impact their ability to stay active and social. Senior living promotes connection through a community setting, restaurant-style dining, and on-site social events and activity groups. These elements provide countless opportunities for residents in assisted living communities to get to know the people around them and foster new and meaningful friendships. Nutrient-Dense Dining OptionsBeing mindful of what you eat and prioritizing nutrition becomes increasingly important as a PERSON GETS OLDER. The foods that a person consumes can directly affect BRAIN HEALTH, heart health, and other parts of the body. While there are many DIETS that an older adult can follow to ensure healthy aging, it can be challenging for some older adults to keep up with grocery shopping, cooking, and meal preparation, resulting in an unbalanced diet or poor eating habits.Assisted living communities offer residents daily meals and dining options that are designed for the needs of older adults. In addition, many communities have nutritionists and chefs on staff who work together to create delicious menus that provide plenty of flavor and nutritional benefits. At HarborChase Senior Living, we are dedicated to elevating the SENIOR LIVING DINING EXPERIENCE by going above and beyond expectations. Our on-site restaurants add a touch of elegance and refinement to every meal, and our restaurant-style approach promotes social activity and connection between residents.A Purposeful, Active LifestyleSo, what does assisted living provide? Perhaps the most important aspect of a persons life is finding purpose. After retirement, many struggle to feel fulfilled. After decades of working in careers, raising families, and leaning on busy schedules, retirement brings these aspects to a sudden stop. It can be jarring, especially if a person has become out of touch with their interests and passions. Assisted living communities, if nothing else, provide individuals with a path toward enrichment and motivation. Residents have the opportunity to reach their personal goals, whether they want to try a new hobby or enhance their wellness, and are provided with the support they need to achieve these objectives. Our HarborChase ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITIES strive to help residents celebrate their achievements, accomplishments, and successes every day. We offer a path toward a fulfilling lifestyle and exceptional wellness through supportive services and luxury community amenities. Discover luxury assisted living at HarborChase, and visit our website to FIND YOUR NEAREST HARBORCHASE COMMUNITY.

Person-centered care is an effective approach for optimizing quality of life as well as outcomes for people receiving care. This involves treating the person, not their condition, by taking the time to get to know the person and incorporate who they are into the provision of care an approach that creates a bond between the caregiver and care receiver.Related to that is the importance of respecting a persons current abilities. Rather than focusing on what someone can no longer do, the ideal caregiver tries to be in the moment with them and meet them where they are.Other Person-Centered Care Characteristics:SincerityCaregivers genuinely care about the people they care for and have a desire to make their lives as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. This compassion is one of the defining characteristics of a caregiver.CompetencyPeople receiving care may be scared or insecure about their need for care so its helpful to reassure them by exhibiting confidence and competence. If a person believes in your abilities, they will feel more secure, safe and engaged.CommittedGood caregivers advocate for their loved ones. They ask questions and expect answers. They also learn about their loved ones condition, and they make sure their loved one gets the care they need.UpliftingCaregivers understand that there will be good days and bad days. They try to focus on the positive and find the silver lining in every situation. This positive outlook is contagious and can often help the people theyre caring for feel better about themselves.CollaborativeA good caregiver recognizes that they are part of an extended care team that may include doctors, family and friends. Being understanding and flexible goes a long way toward being a successful team player focused on whats best for the person receiving care.ResponsibleGood caregivers are effective managers. They create schedules, plan for emergencies and organize information so they dont have to scramble. Being responsible doesnt mean you have to do it all yourself though. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness a good caregiver lines up friends, family, or professionals to step in when they need a break.PatienceThis is the most important because it is key to providing a safe and comfortable atmosphere. People who need care often take longer to complete simple tasks, and they may ask the same questions over and over. Quality caregivers need patience to deal with anything from a loved ones memory lapses to angry outbursts. They practice staying calm and avoiding frustration.Caregivers likely will not be exhibiting all seven characteristics at once. Instead, they draw on the appropriate quality based on the situation. Thats why having a well-stocked caregiving toolbox is invaluable for caregivers.Dr. Macie P. Smith is a licensed gerontology social worker who is focused on helping families support their aging loved ones through long-term care. Specifically, Dr. Smith educates caregivers on how to care for seniors with dementia. She is an advocate for specialized care and assists others in finding a way to provide a better quality of life for individuals with Alzheimers or dementia. Dr. Smith has dedicated over 22 years of her life working in gerontology and assisting families in finding personalized solutions for dementia care. For more articles by Dr. Macie Smith, go to https://synergyhomecare.com/blog/.

As you may have guessed from the pink merchandise flooding the stores, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. What you may not realize is that breast cancer is the second most common cancer for women in the United States, right behind skin cancer. Breast cancer research has resulted in the development of many new treatments that have saved countless lives. However, the best possible outcome would be learning how to prevent breast cancer from ever occurring in the first place.! Fortunately, there are steps you can take toward preventing breast cancer in your own life. Studies have shown that certain lifestyle changes make a big impact and can decrease the risk of breast cancer even in women who are considered high-risk.What You Should Know About Breast CancerBreast cancer begins in the breast, but it can spread when cancer cells enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system and are transported to other parts of the body. Lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic (or lymph) system, which carries lymph fluid through tissues and into the blood. The lymph fluid contains immune system cells, along with tissue by-products and waste materials. With breast cancer, cancer cells begin to grow in the lymph nodes around the breasts. These small glands are located under the arm, near the breastbone, and around the collar bone. When cancer spreads from the breast to the lymph nodes, theres an increased risk that it will metastasize (spread) to other parts of the body.Breast Cancer VarietiesTypes of breast cancer are determined by the specific kind of cells that are affected. The most common breast cancers are carcinomas. Once a biopsy is done, the doctor will test the cells for proteins called estrogen or progesterone receptors, and for the HER2 gene or protein. At the same time, the tumor cells will be examined in the lab to determine the grade of tumor. Knowing the specific proteins and tumor grade is important for determining the stage of cancer and the best options for treatment.Early Diagnosis Is CrucialCatching breast cancer early is an important part of successful treatment. Thats why its vital to check for lumps and changes to your breasts, have regular checkups, and get mammograms and other screenings when your doctor recommends it. The risk of breast cancer increases with age, and for women over 70, theres a 1 in 24 chance of developing breast cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute. Treatments are highly individualized, and healthy, active, independent patients are most likely to experience a good outcome.Lifestyle Changes Can HelpWhether your focus is the prevention of breast cancer, or youve already had a diagnosis and want the best possible outcome, a healthy lifestyle is a crucial component of good health, regardless of your age. Here are some steps you can take to live a healthier life, and reduce your risk of breast cancer.Dont smoke. Smoking doesnt just raise your breast cancer risk; it increases the risk of at least 15 cancers! Additionally, smoking is linked to heart disease and stroke. One of the best things you can do for your overall health is to avoid smoking or quit if youre already a smoker.Limit alcohol consumption. Research indicates that drinking alcohol increases the risk of breast cancer, and the more you drink the higher your risk. Even small amounts can raise your risk, so stick to one drink or fewer per day.Be careful with hormonal treatments. Hormone therapy can increase the risk of breast cancer, particularly if its taken for more than three to five years. If you and your doctor decide that short-term hormone therapy is the best option for you, take the lowest dose of hormones that works for you. A common question is whether birth control pills have an impact on breast cancer risk. Before 1985, birth control pills had higher estrogen levels than they do now. This was linked to a slight increase in breast cancer risk, though that risk level returned to normal 10 years after discontinuing birth control. Todays birth control pills have not been linked to an increased breast cancer risk.Women who breastfeed have a reduced risk of cancer. Breastfeeding a baby for at least one year can help lower the risk of breast cancer, and the longer you nurse, the higher the level of protection will be.Avoid radiation as much as possible. Make sure that you only get procedures involving radiation when its absolutely necessary, as these medical imaging tests have been linked to breast cancer.Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight increases the risk of breast cancer and other medical issues. Obesity that happens after menopause is particularly significant for breast cancer risk. Staying at a healthy weight will not only reduce your risk of breast cancer but will also help your overall health.Stay active. Exercise is a great way to keep your weight in check, and research shows that women who walk 30 minutes each day have a reduced risk of breast cancer. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity are recommended each week, along with strength training twice a week.Eat a nutritious diet. Are there foods that prevent breast cancer? Not necessarily, but a diet full of nutrients can reduce your risk, and it also helps decrease the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. The Mediterranean diet is an excellent example, focused on fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

Though many of us make plans for various stages of our liveswe save for a wedding, we set aside investments for our children's education, we contribute regularly to retirement accountsfunding for end-of-life details often goes neglected.That's not hard to understand. After all, it can be fun to think about traveling around after retirement years, but its difficult to consider what happens to our family when were gone.Final expense insurance is one way to protect your loved ones against the financial concerns of funeral planning.Known by many other namesburial insurance, pre-need insurance or funeral insurancefinal expense insurance is a type of permanent life insurance that collects a regular premium in exchange for a fixed amount of coverage paid to a named beneficiary or beneficiaries at the time of your death. That money is intended to be used to cover the cost of medical care and other end-of-life expenses, most often funeral costs.Though its common to assume life insurance will cover these expenses, thats not always the case. If you want a way to guarantee coverage for your funeral arrangements, and leave your family to sort out the details of your final disposition and funeral service, final expense insurance may help. But if you want to relieve your loved ones of both financial and emotional burdens associated with your passing, prepaid funeral plans are the way to go.This article will help to answer:What's the difference between a prepaid funeral plan and funeral insurance?Can I get a payable on death account for funeral expenses?How does life insurance pay for funeral costs?What is a final expense life insurance policy?What are the types of final expense insurance?What's the difference between a guaranteed issue and a simplified issue life insurance policy?Whats the difference between a prepaid funeral plan and funeral insurance?When you plan and prepay for your funeral, you outline your wishes. You meet with a funeral planning professional and walk through the details, from choosing your disposition (burial or a cremation), type of service (like a chapel service or an outdoor celebration of life), flowers, mementos, and more. You can get as specific as you'd likeright down to your clothes, the music and the menu.Funeral (or final expense) insurance, on the other hand, doesnt include a plan. Its simply a way to fund a funeral, cremation, memorial and more.When you want the comfort of knowing that your family wont have to make arrangement decisions in the difficult days immediately following your deathand you want to ensure that your final wishes are honoreda prepaid funeral plan is for you.On the other hand, final expense insurance does not pay for the specifics of the funeral itself, but rather it is used to cover funeral costs. If your main goal is to ensure that expenses for a funeral or cremation are covered, then funeral insurance can be a good choice. But unlike a prepaid funeral plan, there's no guarantee that they amount you pay will cover the costs of your funeral.Learn about prepaid cremation options.Can I get a payable on death account for funeral expenses?A payable on death account, or POD, is an account that you establish with your bank. The person you name as the beneficiary can access funds in the account after after your death without having to wait for your will to be probated. The beneficiary can then use the funds to pay for your funeral expenses.There is, however, a downside. In order for your beneficiary to access the POD account, he or she will need to provide the bank with a death certificate, which can take up to a month to receive. Since most funeral homes require payment for services at the time of the funeral or cremation, the beneficiary ends up paying for funeral expenses out of pocket and then reimbursing himself or herself once funds from the POD account are released.Its definitely a good idea to name a beneficiary for all your bank accounts, but if your goal is to have funeral expenses covered at the time of need, funeral insurance or a prepaid funeral plan is a better option.How does life insurance pay for funeral costs?Its common to assume your family will use your life insurance benefits to pay for your funeral costsand they might. But those benefits are meant to replace lost income and help your family pay off debtso they may or may not be used for your funeraland there can be other complications, too.First, it can take weeks or even months for a life insurance company to pay out a claim, and the funeral home will require payment at the time of the funeral. This may be surprising, frustrating and financially burdensome for your loved ones during an already difficult time. Learn more about paying for a funeral in installments.What's more, even if your family opts to pay the expenses at the time of need and reimburse themselves, the policy may not pay out enough to cover all of the funeral or cremation costs. Your family may still incur unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.Learn why prepaid funeral plans are the best gift you can give your children.What is a final expense life insurance policy?A final expense life insurance policy is life insurance that specifically directs the beneficiary to use the pay out to cover medical costs and other end-of-life expenses, including funeral, cremation or cemetery costs. The beneficiary decides how the money is spent.Unlike traditional life insurance policies, which require a medical exam to help set the cost of your policy, final expense insurance policies dont require an exam, and applicants are often insured after answering only a few questions.Once a final expense insurance policy is in effect, as long as premiums are kept up to date, it remains in effect until your death, when your beneficiary will receive the benefit.Types of final expense insuranceThere are three categories to consider when purchasing a funeral insurance plan:term or whole lifemedically underwritten or guaranteed issueguaranteed or nonguaranteed expense lockTerm funeral insurance. May be less expensive than other types, but it has a limited time for which a benefit will be paid and for which the premium payment will remain unchanged. Term choices usually include 10 or 20 years. If the insurance has not been used and a benefit has not been paid during that time, you may have an option to renew it, but often at a higher premium rate. This type of policy does not protect against rising funeral costs.Whole life funeral insurance. Sometimes called permanent insurance, this has a higher premium because the benefit does not expire in a certain time frame. In other words, a term plan might pay out a claim; a whole plan will pay out a claim. These plans remain in force until the time of death, at which point the benefit is paid in full to the designated beneficiary (funeral home or individual).Medically underwritten policy. If you are in good health or have only minor health issues, you could consider a medically underwritten policy. There is usually a detailed medical history associated with these policies, but they offer the opportunity for a higher maximum benefit.Guaranteed issue policy. If you have high-risk health problems but not a terminal illness, this type of policy could be for you. It is more expensive than a medically underwritten police or even a simplified issue life insurance (see below) and offers lower maximum coverage amounts, but it's an option.Guaranteed expense lock. This policy type locks in prices for funeral goods and services selected in advance. Once the policy is paid, there are no surprises and no additional charges or expenses. If purchased through a Dignity Memorial provider, whole life, guarantee issue and medically underwritten policies fall under this category. Nonguaranteed expense lock. This policy type does not lock in prices for goods and services. If costs increase and become greater than the policys death benefit, your family will need to pay the difference.A policy may have a combination of these components.If you're confused, you're not alone. Contact us and a pre-planning advisor will reach out to answer all your questions. Whats the difference between a guaranteed issue and a simplified issue whole life policy?For some people, a medical exam is a great obstacle to obtaining whole life insurance. However, there are two types of whole life insurance polices that do not require a medical exam.Guaranteed issue life insurance policies ask applicants just a few questions to rule out terminal illnesses, but they otherwise cover individuals with major health problems.Simplified issue life insurance policies are for those who may not qualify for a fully underwritten life insurance policy but are considered only moderate health risks. Applicants answer detailed medical questionnaires but do not need medical exams to qualify.