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Helping an aging family make decisions is difficult to say the least. You may be considering assisted living or home care and trying to decide which would be better for your loved one. While each situation is unique, here are some thoughts on why an assisted living facility may be better for your loved one in the long run.Assisted living communities offer healthy meals for residents.Is your loved one who is living on their own eating healthy, well-balanced meals? Unfortunately, many seniors do not complete daily meal preparation and instead turn to convenience food and fast-food options. They may eat too little, too much, or not the right foods, and their health may suffer as a result. Hiring a home health aide may not solve this problem. Home health agencies do not hire chefs. They may be able to help your loved one open a can of soup, but they wont prepare fresh meals. If you are worried that your loved one may be malnourished even to the point of affecting their health, you might consider an assisted living facility. Dining programs offer meals three times daily to ensure that your loved one receives the nutrients they need without having to go grocery shopping.An assisted living community will offer transportation services for your loved one.You may worry whenever your loved one gets behind the wheel to go out into the community. Another benefit of assisted living over in-home care is that most assisted living facilities offer safe, reliable transportation services. You can rest easy knowing that your loved one will still be able to get out in the community and return home safely.A person from a home health agency may be able to transport your family member out into the community, but transportation is not the primary service they provide. There may be issues with the vehicle and the caregivers driving ability. Some older adults are uncomfortable with strangers in their homes.Many wonderful in-home caregivers provide skilled health care services, companionship, and personal care. However, your older adult, until they get used to having workers in their own home, may feel uncomfortable. In addition, its sometimes difficult to know how much help your loved one will need especially if they dont need one-on-one care. And managing caregivers can feel like a full-time job.Assisted living communities fulfill the need to be social.Your loved one may insist that they arent lonely and demand that they remain in their own homes. But once they move to assisted living homes, they may blossom socially. Most senior living communities offer social and religious activities and recreational activities inside and outside the community. Social isolation can be devastating to the mental and physical health of a senior. Other assisted living services make life easier and more enjoyable. Home health agency workers wont fix leaky faucets or clean leaves out of the gutter. They may help with medication management, but they dont offer wellness programs that allow your loved one to connect with their peers. An in-home caregiver may help with activities of daily living, but they wont coordinate programming focusing on community and family involvement. To learn more about assisted living facilities, look at the properties offered by Retirement Unlimited, Inc. We have many beautiful senior living communities around the country with several more being developed. Our communities provide Independent Living, Assisted Living, Inspirits Memory Care, and Respite Care, with a full array of life enrichment programs. Key Takeaways: Assisted Living Facility vs. In-Home CareAssisted living communities offer healthy meals for residents.An assisted living community will offer reliable, safe transportation services for your loved one.Some older adults are uncomfortable with strangers in their homes.Assisted living communities fulfill the need to be social.Other assisted living services make life easier and more enjoyable. 

ou know its time to move, but perhaps you are struggling to decide between assisted living vs. independent living. Here are some things to consider about independent living and assisted living communities to help you select the right choice for you or your loved one.Differences Between Independent Living and Assisted LivingIts hard to make broad statements about independent or assisted living communities because services vary at each facility. Here are some general statements about the level of care you would expect from these two types of living situations.Independent LivingIndependent living communities are a great place to enjoy retirement.An independent living community allows you to maintain your independence without having to mow the grass, replace leaky faucets, and clean extra rooms that you no longer use. Instead, you can spend your new-found free time enjoying your favorite pastimes and hobbies and take advantage of programs offered by the senior living community.And you wont be alone, as people living in retirement communities often choose the lifestyle to connect with other people who are at the same time of life.Independent living communities are convenient and comfortable.Independent living costs vary greatly, depending on the services offered by the independent senior living community. Some offer casual and fine dining options and concierge service. Others have on-site housekeeping and laundry services, a salon, workout facilities, and transportation services. Independent living communities give you the chance to live your best life.Assisted LivingYou still can maintain independence by living in an assisted living community.Please understand that while there is a difference between assisted living and independent living communities, you can still maintain a great deal of independence while living in an assisted living facility. You can add or subtract services as needed. However, knowing that medication administration, nursing care, and medical services are available may bring peace of mind to your family members.Assisted living facilities also offer assistance with activities of daily living.One of the main differences between independent and assisted living communities is that assisted living services can include help with bathing and dressing often referred to as the activities of daily living. Assisted living residents can also be helped with medication management as most communities have licensed nurses on site 24/7.Learn About Independent Living and Assisted Living in Your AreaRetirement Unlimited, Inc. (RUI) is a family-owned company offering senior living communities throughout the United States. We provide several options, including independent living, assisted living, and memory care.Schedule a tour of a local community near you to learn more about the difference between assisted and independent living communities by filling out the contact form on our website.Key Takeaways About Different Types of Senior Living CommunitiesIndependent living communities offer programming that helps residents learn and grow during retirement.Independent living facilities are convenient and comfortable.Assisted living facilities offer help with the activities of daily living if you need assistance.  

How do you decide between memory care vs. nursing homes when researching senior living communities for your loved one?Both long-term care options are appropriate for individuals who require assistance with the activities of daily living, and both provide skilled nursing care. However, they typically have distinct focuses, so its important to understand their differences when considering care for a loved one.Memory Care FacilitiesMemory care communities offer specialized care for people with dementia symptoms. Health professionals working at memory care residences undergo specialized training to better understand and care for those with memory impairments.Here are other characteristics of assisted living facilities that focus on memory care.Memory care residences offer specialized care for those living with dementia symptoms.Dementia care covers a wide range of diseases and diagnoses. For example, people with Alzheimers disease have dementia as do those with Lewy body dementia and vascular dementia. Memory care facilities focus on addressing the unique needs and challenges associated with cognitive decline.Memory care facilities are specifically designed for those with dementia.Memory care units are often designed with features and layouts that provide a secure environment and reduce confusion for residents. A memory care unit has secure entrances and exits to prevent wandering.Those working at memory care facilities are trained in managing behavior issues.You may have noticed that your loved one with dementia is becoming more agitated and aggressive as their disease progresses. Staff at memory care facilities are specifically trained to help residents with complex dementia behaviors.Memory care facilities emphasize activities that cater to residents cognitive abilities and interests.Medical professionals design activities for memory care communities that may help slow a patients cognitive decline.Nursing HomesNursing homes provide residents with a broad range of medical and personal care services. A nursing homes services may include:Assistance with activities of daily living.Medical care such as medication management, wound care, and physical therapy.While nursing home residents may have memory loss, this may not be their debilitating medical issue.Nursing homes serve diverse needs.Nursing homes typically admit residents with various health conditions, including chronic illnesses, disabilities, or rehabilitation needs. The resident population may include individuals with and without cognitive impairments.Nursing homes have a diverse staff to provide extensive medical support to residents.Nursing home staff may include registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), certified nursing assistants (CNAs), therapists, and other healthcare professionals. The level of medical care is generally higher than in memory care facilities.What Type of Skilled Nursing Care Is Right for Your Loved One?Choosing between a nursing home and a memory care facility depends on the specific needs and conditions of those requiring care.If someone has dementia or Alzheimers disease, and their primary need is support for cognitive decline, a memory care facility may be a more appropriate choice. However, a nursing home may be a better fit if the individual has a range of medical needs beyond cognitive impairment.The good news is you dont have to make this decision alone. Retirement Unlimited staff will help you select the appropriate level of care for your loved one. And because we offer many different senior care options, your loved one may be able to start in one environment and move to another community if symptoms progress.Schedule a tour of a senior living community near you to learn about the types of care we offer.Key Takeaways: Choosing Between a Memory Care Facility or Nursing Home?Both memory care and nursing facilities can help dementia patients.Memory care residences offer specialized care for those living with dementia symptoms.Those working at memory care facilities are trained in managing behavior issues.Nursing homes have a diverse staff to provide extensive medical support to residents.Ask a professional for help determining what type of care your loved one needs.

Moving from assisted living to a nursing home is often necessitated by changes in an individuals health or care needs. Here are some considerations to consider when moving from assisted living to a skilled nursing facility.Steps When Moving From Assisted Living to Nursing HomeYou or a loved one may need a higher level of care than what you can receive at your assisted living community. Here are some tips for transitioning between senior living communities.Step 1: Assess the individuals care needs.Nursing homes provide more medical and personal care than assisted living facilities. Healthcare professionals or social workers can help evaluate the persons needs to determine an appropriate time to move to a nursing home. Medical input is crucial in determining the proper level of care.Some individuals may be best suited to specialized memory care units. Choose a nursing home based on which one can meet an individuals complex medical needs.Step 2: Tour nursing homes. Research and visit nursing homes in your area to find one that meets the individuals medical needs and preferences. Look for facilities that have a good reputation, meet regulatory standards, and have caring staff members. Some assisted living communities offer nursing home care in another nearby building. Choosing a nursing home in the same complex may be best in giving the individual continuity of services. Step 3: Consider the costs. Skilled nursing care can be expensive. Review the individuals financial resources and access to financial assistance programs like Medicare, Medicaid, or long-term care insurance. After careful consideration, choose the best facility for your loved one.Step 4: Coordinate with the assisted living community staff.Work closely with the staff if the individual is in an assisted living facility. Ask for a checklist of tasks family members and caregivers must complete to ensure a smooth transition. Ensure all medical records, medications, and essential documents are transferred to the nursing home. Step 5: Meet with the nursing home staff to discuss needs and transition.Schedule meetings with the nursing home staff, including nurses, social workers, and administrators, to discuss the individuals care plan, preferences, and specific needs or concerns. For example, your loved one may require physical therapy, occupational therapy, or wound care. Or they may require medical equipment or care for complex medical conditions. Step 6: Prepare to move personal items to the new facility. Assisted living residents often have space for more personal items than those living in a private or semi-private room in a nursing home. Your loved one may need assistance reducing their number of personal belongings. Step 7: Consider the individuals emotional needs.Requiring nursing home care may be emotionally challenging for many seniors. Even if they know they need assistance with activities, they may not think they need skilled nursing services 24/7. Offer emotional support and involve them in the decision-making process as much as possible.Step 8: Visit regularly.Continue to visit the individual in the nursing home to provide companionship and ensure they receive the care they need. Get to know the certified nursing assistants and licensed nurses on staff. Stay engaged in their care and advocate for them when necessary.It may take time for your loved one to adjust to their new environment. Make Your Move to a New Senior Living CommunityMoving from assisted living to a nursing home can be challenging, but its often necessary to ensure the persons health and safety. With careful planning and support, you can make this transition as smooth as possible for your loved one.Retirement Unlimited offers a wide range of senior living facilities. If your loved one has had repeated hospital stays or suffers from a chronic medical condition, it might be time to move them to one of our skilled nursing facilities that provides 24-hour care. Contact RUI today to learn more about our premier senior communities. Key Takeaways: When to Move From Assisted Living to a Nursing Home? If your loved one has declining health and requires one-on-one supervision and help with the activities of daily living, it might be time to move them from an independent living facility to one that can provide skilled nursing care.Work with the staff at each facility to make sure there is a seamless transition especially in regards to medication management. Consider your loved ones emotional needs as they move to a different home.

ts easy to get confused about the different types of residential care facilities for older adults. You may wonder if a residential care home is the same as a nursing home. To add to the confusion, some residential care homes are one part of a larger community that offers more services as needed.Heres what you need to know about residential care homes.What Are Residential Care Homes?Residential care homes combine an independent environment with the ability to add support services as needed. They are sometimes called assisted living communities because you can get assistance as needed unlike a retirement community. Confused? We can see why! The terminology in this industry can often be hard to follow. But because most seniors want to live in the least restrictive environment, you must understand that there are differences among facilities.Generally, residential care homes allow residents to choose among several different floor plans, which often range from single-room studios to two-bedroom apartments. These apartments are maintenance-free and include utilities. Some also offer housekeeping and laundry services.The difference between a residential care home and a retirement community is that a residential care home (or assisted living facility) offers more medical and personal care services.Types of Services Offered by Residential Care HomesPlease note that the services offered by assisted living facilities vary greatly. However, here are some services you should ask about when touring an assisted living community.Meals: Some residents want to live as normal a life as possible when moving to a senior living community. They may want their own kitchen to prepare their meals as needed. However, some welcome the break from cooking. Ask if three meals a day are offered and ask to see the dining menu.Transportation: Some senior living options offer covered parking for those residents with their own vehicles. However, you may enjoy being driven to the market and other places within the community by staff members.Community events: Most assisted living communities schedule fun events that allow you to get to know other residents.Wellness programs: Many senior living communities offer wellness programs to improve the body and the mind.Support services: Finally, as people age, they may require more help, care, or supervision. For example, some need assistance with the activities of daily living, and others need reminders to take medications.As those needs increase and the resident requires more medical services, they may be required to transfer to skilled nursing facilities.What Are Continuing Care Retirement Communities?As you can see from our description, residential care homes allow residents independent living. However, as those needs change, most find it preferable to stay within the same community. This concept is the basis for a continuing care retirement community.While nursing homes of the past housed residents of many ability levels and needs, continuing care retirement communities allow you to move to different facilities within the same system. For example, you may find yourself in need of more medical care because of a recent fall. Memory care communities are available for those with Alzheimers disease or dementia. To learn more about finding a residential care facility in your area, contact RUI. We have beautiful continuing care retirement communities throughout the United States. Our senior living advisor will help determine which level of care is best for you. Key Takeaways About Residential Care FacilitiesMany seniors want to live as independently as possible. Some continuing care retirement communities offer levels of care that can increase over time.Ask for advice from your doctor and the retirement community to see which senior living option is best for you.

Dementia is a degenerative cognitive disorder that affects memory, thinking, behavior, and the ability to perform everyday tasks. You may suspect your loved one is in the beginning stages of dementia. Even though there isnt a universally agreed-upon set of dementia stages, the Global Deterioration Scale is sometimes used to outline how the disease progresses. The 7 Stages of DementiaPlease understand that people with dementia do not always have Alzheimers disease. There are other types of dementia, including Lewy body dementia and frontotemporal dementia. Heres how dementia progression stages typically work.Stage 1: No Cognitive DeclineThere are no noticeable cognitive deficits at this stage, and the individuals cognitive function is considered normal for their age.Stage 2: Very Mild Cognitive DeclineAt this stage, a person may experience normal age-related forgetfulness, such as misplacing keys or forgetting names. These memory lapses in the early stages of pre-dementia are generally not severe enough to interfere significantly with daily life.Stage 3: Mild Cognitive Decline (Early-Stage Dementia)In this middle stage, individuals may experience more mild cognitive impairment. They may have trouble with memory, finding words, or performing familiar tasks. A family member may start to notice this mild decline.Stage 4: Moderate Cognitive Decline (Mild Dementia)At this point, dementia symptoms become more pronounced. Individuals may need help with basic arithmetic, complex tasks, and planning. Memory deficits are more noticeable, and they may need help managing finances or remembering recent events.Stage 5: Moderately Severe Cognitive Decline (Moderate Dementia)In this stage, individuals require assistance with many activities of daily living. Memory loss worsens, and they may have trouble recognizing familiar faces, including those of family members. Personality changes and behavioral issues can also arise.Stage 6: Severe Cognitive Decline (Moderately Severe Dementia)Individuals in this stage of dementia typically require extensive assistance with daily activities. They may lose the ability to use familiar words, forget recent events, and become disoriented to time and place. You may have to worry about your loved one getting lost even in a familiar setting. Behavioral symptoms can become more challenging, and they may require constant supervision.Stage 7: Very Severe Cognitive Decline (Severe Dementia)In the final stage of dementia, individuals may lose the ability to speak, walk, and swallow. They become entirely dependent on others for full-time care, and their cognitive function deteriorates to the point where they may no longer recognize family members or their surroundings.Dementia Stages Arent the Same for EveryoneIts important to note that the progression of dementia can vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience all these stages in the same way or the same order. Additionally, there are different types of dementia (e.g., Alzheimers disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia), and the specific symptoms and progression may differ depending on the underlying cause. Help Is AvailableIf your loved one is experiencing any age-associated memory impairment, contact Retirement Unlimited. Our Inspirits  Memory Care communities offer innovative and compassionate approaches. Memory care focuses on the residents overall wellness, life enrichment, and diet. We are here to celebrate life with our residents while maintaining their safety and comfort. Schedule a visit at one of our memory care residences in your area. We are here to help. Key Takeaways The progression of dementia varies depending on the person and diagnosis.The seven stages of dementia outline the progression of common symptoms of those with age-related memory issues.Memory care units are available for those in the moderate or late stages of their memory disease

The days can be long for older adults living in Assisted Living facilities. One way to distinguish a vibrant Assisted Living community from one not so vibrant is by the quality and number of Assisted Living activities offered.Here are some thoughts for someone choosing an Assisted Living facility for a loved one.How to Spot a Vibrant Senior Living CommunityUnfortunately, many Assisted Living communities rely on Wheel of Fortune to provide mental stimulation and entertainment to their residents. But it takes more than TV, puzzles, and mediocre exercise classes to keep the mind sharp and promote a sense of well-being. Heres how to spot senior living communities that offer fun, mentally stimulating activities.Look for learning opportunities for your loved one.It turns out you CAN teach an old dog new tricks. Look for a senior community that offers activities that encourage mental stimulation. While many Assisted Living facilities have book clubs, some take it a step further and offer lifelong learning courses on history, music, wine, or even foreign language classes. Ask about exercise and wellness options.Older adults must maintain as much of an active lifestyle as possible. Regular exercise is essential for physical health and cognitive function. Classes are often an enjoyable way to add daily exercise for assisted living residents. Look for courses for various fitness levels from ballroom dancing to tai chi. Check out the outdoor living spaces.Does the schedule include outdoor activities for residents? Spending time in the great outdoors may be vital for your loved ones mental health. Your loved one deserves to be pampered!Some Assisted Living facilities offer spa services for senior citizens, so look for this when touring a prospective community. Your loved one will feel like their best self after getting a manicure, pedicure, or massage.Inquire about trips into the community. Some activity directors are great at scheduling events and field trips in the community. Your loved one wont feel isolated when they can attend local sporting events, concerts, and other attractions in the area. Your loved one with an adventurous spirit may perk up with these activity offerings especially if they had become isolated before moving into the facility.Ask to see the Assisted Living activity calendar when touring prospective facilities.The best Assisted Living communities offer fun activities to keep their residents engaged. Ask to see their calendar of events or better yet, their app that keeps their residents informed of all that is happening in their community.If you are looking for a facility with top-tier Assisted Living activities, schedule a tour at a Retirement Unlimited community. Ask about RUI University, RUI Fit, our RUI Leash on Life pet concierge service, and LUXE Unlimited spa facilities. We have a full calendar of engaging activities designed to maintain or improve cognitive functions and physical health. Visit today to see our seniors in action! Questions To Ask About Assisted Living ActivitiesWhat kind of learning opportunities do you offer your residents? What creative ways do you keep them engaged?Can you tell me about your wellness program? Does it include outdoor activities?Do you offer hair styling services, manicures, or pedicures?Tell me about the special events that you provided within the last month.Can I see your activity calendar or app?

What is senior Respite Care? Senior Respite Care is planned or emergency short-term care of an elderly person. Its typically needed by family members who act as a primary caregiver for an elderly loved one. Here are the key points in understanding Respite Care services.Important Points to Consider About Respite Care ServicesAre you a caregiver for an elderly loved one? Heres what family caregivers should be aware of regarding Respite Care services. You must plan for emergencies. What would happen to your loved one if you became sick or had a medical emergency? While you may not anticipate having to be away from your loved one, emergencies do happen. Thats why its essential to have Respite Care coverage in place. Respite Care provides temporary relief to caregivers. Please dont feel guilty if you need a break from caring for your aging loved one. Caregiving is often physically and emotionally exhausting. It can even be frightening at times. Dont be embarrassed to admit when you need a break from your caregiving responsibilities. Needing a break doesnt mean you are a bad spouse or child it just means you are human.There are different types of Respite Care services.Respite Care can range from a few hours to several days or weeks. Adult daycare services are appropriate for those needing help for just a few hours. While some respite providers will come to your loved one, you can also send your family member to an assisted living facility that provides Respite Care services. While having a home health aide may seem more convenient, you may have concerns about letting professional caregivers in your loved ones home. On the other hand, Respite Care facilities are designed to meet the needs of elderly patients. Your loved one may do well receiving care from trained staff at a skilled nursing facility. You can use residential Respite Care to try out assisted living options.Your family member may resist moving into an assisted living facility. However, after spending a few days with a professional caregiver, they may discover the many benefits of living in such a place. Respite Care offers a glimpse into the community lifestyle, complete with all the benefits and amenities of permanent residency.Respite Care costs might be covered by insurance or government programs. Various organizations and agencies offer support and resources for accessing Respite Care. Find out more about Respite Care costs by calling a skilled nursing facility near you.Respite Care providers are licensed professionals not informal caregivers.We do not mean to overlook the value of a family caregiver. After all, you know your loved one better than anyone and provide care with love. However, a professional Respite Care provider is specifically trained to care for older adults. They know techniques to help older people with activities of daily living. They also are trained to be on the lookout for medical reasons that your loved one may not be doing as well as they should.For Respite Care in a senior living community near you, contact Retirement Unlimited. We offer Respite Care services in Virginia, Florida, and North Carolina with fully furnished accommodations and flexible stay optionsContact Retirement Unlimited today to learn more.Key Takeaways About Respite Care in Assisted Living FacilitiesIts important to find respite services in case of an emergency.Respite Care can curtail caregiver burnout.There are three types of Respite Care services adult day services, in-home care services, or short-term assisted living options.Your loved one may benefit from having professional care.