Grace Pointe Senior Care Community

Exercises for seniors provide many health benefits, such as lowering risk for heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer. Regular exercise also improves core strength and balance to prevent injuries and stay independent.There are also many mental health benefits that come from regular exercise, such as improved: mood, symptoms of anxiety and depression, and memory! According to the CDC, adults aged 65 and older need at least 150 minutes a week (for example, 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week) of moderate-intensity activity.A Look at Some Common Exercises The most common exercises for seniors are low-impact exercises, not to be confused with low-intensity. Low-impact exercises get your heart rate up slowly and cause less pressure on your joints. Low-impact exercises are especially good for people that suffer from pain in the joints, bones, and connective tissues. Some popular low-impact exercises include walking, yoga, swimming, and chair exercises. Below are some great low-intensity exercises that can be done at home.Toe TapsToe taps primarily target your lower body muscles, including your hip flexors, hamstrings, glutes, calves, and quadriceps. Sit in a sturdy chair and stretch your legs out in front of you, with your heels on the ground. Alternate pointing and flexing while making sure to tap your toes on the ground. This exercise will help strengthen your core, reducing back pain and promoting balance and flexibility. Toe taps can also help improve the rotation, flexion, and extension of your trunk.Seated RowThis exercise targets muscles in your upper back and the muscle on the outer side of the chest wall. Seated rows will help improve your posture and help protect your shoulders.Sit up tall in your chair.Extend your arms out in front of you.Pull your elbows back behind you, squeezing your shoulder blades together at the end of the movement.Keep your chest up throughout this exercise.The seated row exercise is a great post-surgery exercise for most types of shoulder repairs. Remember that this is a low-intensity exercise and that more low-intensity repetitions are better than fewer high-intensity repetitions. Leg ExtensionsThis exercise is good for strengthening the patellar ligament and quadriceps attachment for the knee.Sit in a solid chair with your back straight and your legs relaxed and bent at the knee.Exhale as you raise one leg by extending at the knee while keeping your toes pointing upwards.Monitor for any knee pain and continue to extend the knee until your leg is pointing straight out and away from you.Repeat on each side.Seated leg extensions are great for strengthening the muscles that help keep you balanced, thus decreasing any chance of a fall.Exercises for Seniors with AlzheimersIn a recent study done by Cambridge University, there was clear evidence that physical activity and especially aerobic exercise may be effective in the management of neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS).For seniors with Alzheimers and other forms of dementia, it is important to do exercises that are also mentally stimulating, such as gardening, dancing, swimming, walking, and seated exercises. The repetition of the movements offers an activity that keeps them sharp and physically active.In addition to physical exercises, mentally stimulating exercises are great at reducing NPS. A couple of examples of great mental activities include:SudokuCrossword PuzzlesCheckers/ChessReading Although dementia cannot be cured by participating in these activities, they can help slow the progression of the disease and contribute to a better quality of life.How Does Grace Pointe Contribute to Physical Wellness?Grace Pointe is committed to bettering the lives of the residents through daily activities that promote physical wellness and are mentally stimulating. Some of our daily activities include:Board GamesGardeningPhysical ExerciseCraftingMusicTo learn more about our activities and take a tour of our campus, contact Grace Pointe today!

Senior care is a large spectrum of facilities and services with many different levels of care; and when beginning the conversation about senior living, it can be hard to know exactly what can be expected at each type of facility. Here, we will clarify what exactly assisted living is and who the best candidate is for an assisted living facility. Table of Contents:What Is Assisted Living? Who is the Typical Assisted Living Resident? How Long Do People Live at Assisted Living Facilities?How Independent Does Someone Have to be to Live in Assisted Living?Do Assisted Living Residents Still Drive?Can Someone Who Doesnt Speak English Live in Assisted Living?Can Married Couples Move into Assisted Living?Can Young People Move into Assisted Living Facilities?Can People with Disabilities Live in Assisted Living?Who Should Not Live in An Assisted Living Facility?What Is Assisted Living Assisted living is what the name implies, a facility that residents live in that provides assistance for everyday living tasks. However, the level of care in these facilities can vary greatly, from providing meals and planning community events to full-time care; thus, it is important to identify your needs before moving forward with any particular facility.Who is the Typical Assisted Living Resident? According to the Overview, published by The National Center for Assisted Living, heres what they found:Typical Resident  The typical resident is a woman about 87 years old who is mobile but needs assistance with approximately two to three activities of daily living. She would have two to three of the Top 10 chronic conditions.Percentage Of All Residents By Age Groups: In 2010, 54 percent of assisted living residents were 85 years or older; 7 percent were 75-84 years old; 9 percent of residents were between 65 and 74 years, and 11 percent were younger than 65 years old.Gender  Seventy-four percent of assisted living residents are female; 26 percent are male.The number of Residents  More than 735,000 people nationwide live in assisted living settings.Activities of Daily Living  Thirty-eight percent of residents received assistance with three or more needs. View more detailed stats about activities of daily living among assisted living residents.How Long Do People Live at Assisted Living Facilities Most seniors who move into assisted living facilities move there with the intent to live the rest of their lives there. However, many assisted living facilities offer short-term care options. Doctors sometimes use these facilities as a form of outpatient care after surgery. Patients may need assistance with daily life tasks such as getting dressed or cooking in the wake of their procedure, however, after a period they will recover and return home.  CDC found the average length of stay for residents assisted living stays are as follows: 35% of residents stay one year or more, 16% stay 3 years or more, 15% stay over 5 years, 14% stay 6 months or less, 9% stay more than 3 months, and 9% less than 3 months.How Independent Does Someone Have to be to Live in Assisted Living? Assisted living residents typically still manage their lives on their own except when they require assistance with daily activities and when their health begins to decline. Therefore, assisted living care homes help with housekeeping, transportation, toileting, dressing, and cooking. Medical monitoring is available to help with medication management and other minor care they require.In the CDC study, they found that kind of health residents living in assisted living experience the following: 5% are in excellent health, 16% are in very good health, 38% of the residents are in good health, 32% are in fair health, and 10% are in poor health.Do Assisted Living Residents Still Drive? Since seniors who live in assisted living facilities are typically quite independent, it is very common for them to both be able to drive still and keep cars in the facility use at their disposal. The Center for Disease Control (2010 study of Residential Care Facilities) found that 96% of all residents who first move into a facility can drive.Can Someone Who Doesnt Speak English Live in Assisted Living? There may be some anxiety around sending your loved one to a facility where their native language is not spoken. However, this is no reason that they should be denied care and the CDC study found that 14% of the residents at assisted living facilities have limited English or no English at all.There are a variety of ways that a language barrier can be crossed; a caregiver within the facility can speak the residents native language, a family member may be able to translate as needed, or the caregivers may use non-verbal cues and hand signals to communicate. When caring for the non-English speaking resident, 56% of the Caregivers speak the residents native language.29% of residents with limited English skills rely on family members to translate.Of the residents with little English-speaking skills, 64% communicate with the staff using non-verbal cueing, hand signs, or gestures.Can Married Couples Move into Assisted Living? Married couples move into assisted living facilities together all the time. There are a few benefits to this. Both spouses are there to look after one another as well as it provides a continuum of care for the future if either need help at any timeCan Young People Move into Assisted Living Facilities? Most assisted living communities for older adults to have age limits for admission, usually 55+. However, some will allow younger adults to move in depending on their age, diagnosis, disability, and compatibility with the general older population.Can People with Disabilities Live in Assisted Living Assisted living communities are a good choice for seniors and people with physical disabilities who need help with tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating, taking medications, and using the restroom. If a disability significantly limits mobility, then assisted living may not be a good choice because oftentimes residents live in independent suites or apartments in assisted living facilities. Who Should Not Live in An Assisted Living Facility Assisted living is not a good choice for people who are still able to live independently, as the unneeded services may result in a higher cost than independent living facilities. However, it can still be a good choice for those who are mostly independent now but will need support for daily living in the not-too-distant future, since many have programs and services designed to help seniors transition from a low level of care to a more comprehensive care plan.Additionally, assisted living may not be a good choice for people with significant mobility constraints or in need of memory care unless the facility specifically caters to these needs. Lastly, it is important to know if you or your loved one may be in need of memory care. If so, it is important to ensure your facility of choice has those options available. Once you have decided that an assisted living facility is right for you or your loved one, check out our blog on 5 Tips to Finding the Right Senior Care Facility for You. 

Whatever the circumstances, the transition to assisted living is a major life event. Every life transition is stressful. Buying or selling a home, starting an exciting new career, losing someone you love, the birth of a child, and getting married all have that in common.So lets talk about how to make a transition to assisted living a positive and happy one. Here are five useful things to keep in mind (definitely dont skip #5!):1. Be Intentional and Inclusive About Picking the Right PlaceIn some ways, the work you do before the transition to assisted living is the most important part. Actually, it can be broken into two parts:Selecting the Best Available OptionIdeally, choosing an assisted living community for an aging loved one shouldnt come down to convenience and availability. Assuming you have at least a few senior living campuses to choose from, investing the time up-front to make sure youre picking the right one will pay dividends. Will your loved one be happy, capably attended to, safe, and able to enjoy a level of autonomy suited to his or her situation? You dont want to take things for granted given the weight of the decision.Work your way backward from a positive outcome. Will your parent or loved one have access to things that interest them? Do they own, and presumably want to continue living with, a pet? Are the amenities they consider must-haves or high priorities available? Can you discern whether the social activities and vibe would make them happy?Talk to managers and caregivers, assess the cleanliness and taste of the communal areas, and see what kind of sense you get of the culture. What kind of demeanor does the staff have? Questions and observations like this can quickly point you away from a wrong decision or towards a good decision.Making the choice as inclusive as possibleIn some cases, this process begins before the transition is even discussed with an aging parent. The way the decision will unfold or should unfold depends on the state of a loved ones health and other circumstantial considerations. But it is generally kinder and happier for all involved if the decision is approached in a way thats inclusive and conversational.Taking them on site visits and toursHaving candid discussions about the pros and consCollaboratively determining must-haves and nice-to-have amenitiesOpenly discussing moving timelines and financesWe know that every situation is unique, especially when your loved one has dementia or other chronic illness. But to the extent that youre able to, we recommend fully including them in the decision.2. Honor Your Loved Ones FeelingsOf all the things you can do to ease the transition to assisted living, this might be the most difficult. Were often taught to try to problem-solve when we should be listening. Homes are full of stories and the richness, joys, and sorrows of life. Pets loved and mourned, kids losing teeth, Easter egg hunts, Thanksgiving dinners, game nights with friends and family, the smell of fresh laundry, windchimes, backyard cookouts, and so many other things. Thinking of a home you will never step foot in again is strange regardless of how happy your current circumstances are. Dont expect a move into an assisted living campus to be emotionally uncomplicated. Its important to honor your loved ones feelings as they transition to assisted living.Acknowledge the validity of your parent or loved ones feelings when theyre sad, frustrated, or ambivalent. This can help create space for them to embrace the many positive things about moving to an assisted living community.3. Attend to the Practical ThingsOf all the things you can do to ease the transition to assisted living, this might be the most boring. But its a comparatively modest demand on your time and its valuable.Youve moved before. Little things always fall through the cracks figuratively and sometimes literally during and following moves. Doing the little, unremarkable but valuable things isnt exciting, but if youre lucky it can be beneficial in the long run. Filling out Change of Address formsTerminating accounts with recurring monthly payments for services they no longer use (such as utilities)Providing their updated address to family members and friendsHiring movers, if necessaryTransferring or re-housing houseplants, appliances, and other itemsSome days, the most valuable person is the one who sets aside 45 minutes to tend to the boring stuff. Related: Move to Assisted Living Checklist4. Attend to the Impractical Essentials of Creating a HomeImpractical essentials are things that nourish people emotionally rather than physically. But they matter just as much as having functioning appliances and light bulbs. Anything you can do that creates feelings of serenity, pride, cheerfulness, connection, amusement, curiosity, and other positive emotions will help your loved one feel grounded and connected and whole.A few ways to achieve this include:Place familiar personal belongings conspicuously throughout the apartment.Make sure theyre stocked up on things that interest and satisfy them, such as books, crafts, musical instruments, creative hobbies, art, and music collections.Put up reminders of things theyre proud of, such as old sports photos, civic awards, and recognitions, or achievements in academics, arts, business, and so forth.Tack up a wall calendar with upcoming events, dates of recurring visits from loved ones, and special occasions.On a final note: theres a lot of room in the middle of the field between austerity and hoarding. A transition to an assisted living community usually involves downsizing. This requires difficult tradeoffs, so a little harmless clutter can be comforting and enjoyable.5. Create Moments of Elevation Along the WayIn the wonderful book The Power of Moments, authors Chip and Dan Heath talk about how certain moments have a disproportionate impact on how we think about life experiences. When we think back on how positive or negative an experience was, we think about moments that surprised, delighted, or distressed us. Applying that insight in creative ways can be super useful. As the authors put it, Defining moments shape our lives, but we dont have to wait for them to happen. We can be the authors of them.The first impression of a new living space can take weeks to wear off, so a little extra effort in the right place and time can have a hugely positive impact. And this is the most enjoyable of the five tips weve provided here. It amounts to applied humor, creativity, and kindness:Tucking away notesyour own, or a grandchildssomewhere you know your loved one will find themPlaying the song your parents danced to at their wedding on move-in dayPlacing two tickets to an upcoming play or baseball game on the bedside tableSurprising them with a piata one month to the day before their birthday to give them something to look forward toThere is practically no end to the number of things you can do on moving day and in the one-month period following a move to an assisted living campus that will make Mom and Dads new home feel like well, home.An Enjoyable Transition to Assisted Living at Grace PointeWe hope this list of tips for making your loved ones transition to assisted living has been inspiring. Its a big deal. May you be inspired for the journey and may you be the supportive aid your loved one needs as they prepare for this next life stage.When youre ready, schedule a tour with one of our compassionate caregivers, and lets see if Grace Pointe is right for you or your loved one.

When choosing between a skilled nursing facility vs. assisted living facility, it all comes down to one thing: the level of care needed. At some point, there may come a time when your aging parent needs more help at home than you are able to give them and there are a variety of long-term care solutions available. Depending on the level of care you need, assisted living or skilled nursing facility care could be the right choice for you and your family, but how do you know which is right?In this blog, we will delve into the differences and similarities between assisted living communities and skilled nursing facilities to help you make informed decisions for yourself and your family.What Is Assisted Living?Assisted living is a flexible living environment that allows residents to equip themselves with support, resources, activities, and equipment to function on their own with daily life and routine assistance when needed. Picture these communities like a retirement community where residents create their own living space and work with a team to create a customized care plan.Assisted living is not going to be for any resident that needs 24/7, round-the-clock medical care. This option provides an easier transition for families looking to provide more community and support to their aging parent. This is because it is a great option to transition from living on their own to needing a little more care, as it still helps them keep their independence.What Are Skilled Nursing Facilities?Its important to note that when choosing between care and services at a skilled nursing facility vs. assisted living, skilled nursing facilities are for seniors who require 24/7 physical or medical care for things such as chronic illnesses and injuries. These patients need round-the-clock care from a group of skilled medical professionals, which is different from the level of care provided in an assisted living community. Its also important to note that skilled nursing facility residents are not always permanent residents and can recover from an injury and move back into an assisted living facility.Skilled Nursing Facility vs. Assisted Living: What Is the Difference?In general, the difference between care at an assisted living facility and a skilled nursing facility is the amount of care needed. When choosing between a skilled nursing facility vs assisted living community, it comes down to asking yourself what level of care is necessary for them to live safely and comfortably. Assisted living residents might only need assistance with daily tasks, whereas skilled nursing facility residents require a much more immediate and consistent level of care.For example, if residents are in need of a high level of care when it comes to medication management, mobility assistance, access to doctors, and frequent medical care, a skilled nursing facility would be a great option to look into. Skilled nursing facilities often provide round-the-clock care and service options. However, if residents and their families are just looking for help with daily tasks and an increase in their quality of life as a part of a community, then assisted living might be the right choice.Its important to remember that both assisted living and skilled nursing facilities are usually offered in the same community campus to allow for easy transitions and higher quality of life.The Grace Pointe Assisted Living ExperienceAt Grace Pointe Senior Care Community, we are committed to helping you make an informed decision when it comes to the long-term and short-term care of you and your family members. Our assisted living community is designed to provide as much autonomy as the resident is capable of. A wide range of services can be customized to you and your familys needs, such as medication management and shower assistance.We understand that choosing the right living environment for you and your family can be overwhelming, but we are here to give you the information and support you need. You shouldnt have to make this difficult decision alone! We are here to help you and your family make the right decision for your situation.Learn more about our Assisted Living options by clicking here. And explore all of our Care Services and how they can help assist you and your aging parents in the Greeley area today! If you have any questions, please call us today 970-304-1919.

If youre considering moving elderly parents into your home, assuredly youll have many questions. Oftentimes caring for just ourselves can feel like a lot. Adding the care of your parents on top of all of your other responsibilities? Is it something youll be able to manage?At Grace Pointe, our main concern is the well-being of your aging parents. We want to be sure you have the information necessary to make the best call. Lets have a look at some considerations that will need to be made before moving elderly parents into your home, followed by a couple of quality options for alternative forms of care.Considering Care for Your Parents?It can be shocking to find yourself as the grown child of parents who now need to be cared for. Even more, their need for care is sure to increase with time. Providing the care your parents require on your own is one option, and many grown children choose this route. There are other options like assisted and independent living that you can consider as well. With all the options, first things first, understand what your parents would prefer.Understanding Your Parents DesiresFor many aging adults, growing old in their own homes is the most preferred option. If and when it becomes clear that they are no longer able to safely live on their own, youll most likely need to have a conversation about what aging safely can look like.The goal of this conversation should be to prepare your parents for change. Ask them about their expectations regarding growing old. Find out what sorts of activities they feel they are beginning to need help accomplishing. This is also a good time to discuss your concerns and paint them a picture of your hope for their care. Here are some helpful tips to remember when preparing for this conversation.Be gentle. Youre suggesting some big changes that may be hard to receive. Deliver them gently.Be patient. Your parents may not receive these changes well. Be patient and willing to help them work through it.Be humble. Your parents are your parents, and theyve lived a lot of life. Be humble and acknowledge your parents input.Be informed. Your greatest tool for this conversation is information. Do your research on what these changes will entail.Considering Providing Care for Your Parents Yourself?Perhaps youre contemplating taking on that burden of care yourself. Its not unheard of. If you do decide to go forward with moving elderly parents into your home, youll need to understand the scope of care they will need. Planning for your parents safety, their quality of life, and your self-care is a good place to start.Planning for Your Parents SafetyDepending on the level of care your parents require, there will be preparations youll need to make before they come to live in your home. Many of these preparations can be accomplished on your own, others may require some assistance. Take a look at this helpful article for a fuller understanding of these preparations, but here are a few you can start with.Are there concerns about falling? Remove tripping hazards like loose rugs and free areas of any extra clutter.Will they need help standing up? Grab bars in the bathroom may be a wise addition to your home. Do you live in a multi-story home? Make living arrangements where your parents can live independently on one level.Planning to Maintain Your Parents Quality of LifeHaving to make peace with fleeting independence is a tall order. While youre providing care for your parents, taking an honest look at where they need support is the first step, followed by an assessment of all the possible solutions available to provide them the help they need. (AgingInPlace)The aim is to provide an environment for your parents that allows them as much independence as theyre capable of. That independence is accomplished via an assortment of daily activities. Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) are the essential activities that must be maintained to allow your parents to continue the independent life theyre accustomed to. An inability to maintain these activities on their own will inform the level of care they may require. Some basic ADLs include personal hygiene, self-feeding, bathing, and mobilityInstrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) are non-essential activities that play a role in independent living. Some basic IADLs include cooking and cleaning, running errands, managing finances, and taking necessary medications.Planning for Self-CareProviding care for an elderly parent can be difficult. With all of your focus on them, you may experience a decline in energy and enthusiasm, notice a neglect for and withdrawal from normal patterns of life, and even grow in feelings of hopelessness. Its important to be realistic about how much care youre able to provide on your own without sacrificing your self-care, your relationships, and other responsibilities like work and family. (CommonWiseCare) If the level of care your parents require is outside of your capacity to provide, it may be time to consider alternative forms of care.Considering Alternative Forms of Care for Your Parents?There are many alternative options available for providing care for your aging parents. Depending on your parents care needs, assisted and independent living may be great options to consider. Both will allow them space to maintain a safe level of independence while providing them the care they require.Understanding Assisted LivingAssisted living is designed to provide as much autonomy as your parents are capable of, ranging from the highest level of care to only needing assistance with activities such as walking to meals. This alternative form of care is a good fit for aging parents who require higher levels of assistance and promotes a balanced lifestyle as well as social interaction.Understanding Independent LivingIndependent Living is the perfect alternative for aging parents who wish to enjoy an active, fulfilling life without the worries of household maintenance. With independent living your parents can age in place, leaving you assured they will receive the care they need when they need it.At Grace Pointe, Your Parents Can Age In PlaceAs your parents age, their needs will change. Its important to provide them with an environment where they can safely and comfortably age in place. At Grace Pointe, we can provide that environment, and with our customized approach to care, you can be sure your parents specific needs are our priority. Explore which level of care your parents need, and let Grace Pointe be the support your parents need.

Deciding, for yourself or for a loved one, to move into a senior care community is a big step. Youll need to consider the right level of care while also keeping in mind the environment desired and long-term care options.Asking yourself the following questions will help guide you through what type of community and level of care is the right choice for you or your loved one. Section 1. Questions  For Seniors, Children or Family Members: Do you maintain an active and social lifestyle while remaining independent at home?Are you able to safely manage your own medication?Are you looking to engage in recreational, educational and social activities with others?Would you benefit from convenient services and senior-friendly surroundings, but are not in need of assistance with daily activities or skilled nursing?If you answered yes to all of the above questions, then you or your loved one would most likely be a good fit for Independent Living. Independent Living is a great option for individuals who are interested in increased social opportunities and mental or physical stimulation. Independent Living should not be viewed as a nursing home in fact, at Grace Pointe Senior Care Community, our Independent Living neighborhood is active, lively and social.Interested in taking a tour to see for yourself? Click here. Section 2. Questions For Seniors, Children or Family Members: Do you need help with some of your daily activities, such as bathing or dressing?Are there concerns around safety when you are home alone (in many cases, this may look like a series of recent falls that may have ended in the hospital or with injury)?Are you having issues with meal preparation?Are at-home care expenses getting steeper to the point where assisted living may actually be more affordable?Are you looking to engage in social activities with others?If you answered yes to most or some of the above questions, then you or your loved one would be a good candidate for Assisted Living. Assisted Living tends to be a good option for seniors who want to maintain their privacy while receiving additional care and support from trained professionals. Not to mention, Assisted Living at Grace Pointe is a great way to stay engaged and fulfilled with others in the same life stage.Section 3. Questions For Children or Family Members: Is your loved one demonstrating unsafe behavior, such as wandering or aggression?Does your loved one require 24/7 medical supervision or support?Are you becoming concerned with the quality of life of your loved one?If you answered yes to any of the above questions, then your parent or loved one is most likely a candidate of either Long-Term Care or Memory Care.If youre still unsure about what type of Senior Care Community is right for you or your loved one, feel free to reach out to us at the form below. Were happy to answer your questions and provide you with low-pressure support through your decision-making process.

Looking through all the different types of senior living options can be daunting and overwhelming for any family and their loved ones. Not only are there different facilities to choose from, but there is also the decision of what level of care you might need. The following guide will help to break down the most common types of senior living options in the market, along with all the information you might need to make an educated decision for you and your loved ones.Independent LivingIdeally, most residents as they age will progress to independent living first. Independent living is a good option for those that are still active but dont necessarily need any daily assistance. This living situation is typically for those seniors who would like to experience life with zero household maintenance worries and the convenience of on-site amenities, events, and social interaction. At Grace Pointe Senior Care Community, our independent living facility helps our residents maintain their independence in a private apartment while enjoying the peace of mind that community living, with security features and medical experts nearby, brings. Its a fulfilling solution to help with the sometimes difficult transition from living on their own and allows them to keep some level of independence.Assisted LivingThe next level of care for seniors within a senior care community is assisted living. Assisted living care is, just as the name suggests, a little more assistance. Seniors are well-suited for this type of senior living option when they need some assistance with their daily activities. Residents will have round-the-clock access and assistance with tasks such as:EatingDressingBathingHousekeepingLaundryTransportationGrace Pointes Assisted Living experience is designed to give residents the opportunity to have as much autonomy as the residents are capable of. Residents and their families work with their care coordinator to come up with a personalized care plan that they are comfortable with and it can be adjusted at any time.Memory CareSometimes residents are in need of specialized care related specifically to seniors living with advanced memory impairment. In most cases, residents have been diagnosed with Alzheimers or another form of dementia. Because most residents who have this disease have very different physical and emotional needs, there are most likely specialized care services offered to support seniors with these cognitive challenges. Memory care staff are available 24-7 to assist and care for these residents ensuring they stay stimulated, safe, and cared for.If your loved one is in the mid-to-late stages of Alzheimers or dementia, memory care facilities are an appropriate next step to consider. At Grace Pointe Senior Care Community, our Memory Care Facility is a specialized type of senior living option. We provide activities designed to tap into the interests and skills of our residents through activities and outings to complement the care provided to them daily.Long-Term Senior CareThe last type of senior living care option most commonly available is long-term senior care. Also referred to as a skilled nursing facility or nursing home, they represent the highest level of care, if you were looking at the spectrum of senior care. These facilities provide round-the-clock, skilled nursing care from highly-trained medical professionals, as well as short-term rehabilitation services like physical and occupational therapy. Ideally, this level of care is a progression from independent living and assisted living, but often someone transitions after being treated in the hospital for an injury or illness.The Long-Term Senior Care experience at Grace Pointe Senior Care Community is designed to be a comfortable experience in a warm environment while receiving care designed for your specific needs, with 24-hour monitoring and assistance by nurses and CNAs trained to address the everyday needs of residents in a home-like setting. Grace Pointe also has a comprehensive Senior Rehabilitation Center that has 26 studios dedicated to post-hospital, short-term rehabilitation.Senior Care Continuum of Care QuizWe hope this information helped supply you with the information to make a confident and informed decision for you and your loved ones. However, if youre still not sure which level of care is best, we can help! At Grace Pointe Senior Care Community of Greeley, Colorado, our continuum of care provides a seamless transition for residents as their needs change, and our customized approach allows for flexibility based on true needs and not overpriced packages.Not sure what services or types of senior living options you and your loved ones need? Take our Continuum of Care Quiz and let the expert team at Grace Pointe Senior Care Community match you with recommended services based on your answers. If you have any questions, please call us at 970-304-1919.

Transitioning to senior living can be an intimidating prospect for many seniors. If you are a family member or friend of a senior, it can be difficult to know how to approach the subject and begin talking about the next steps. But, starting the conversation sooner rather than later is important so that seniors have time to make decisions and prepare for their transition in a way that feels comfortable. Here are some tips on how to start talking to your loved ones about senior living and why it is an important conversation to have and earlier than you think.Do Your Research First When it comes to transitioning into senior living, knowledge is power. Knowing what types of options are available and what services different facilities provide can help ease any anxiety around the conversation and give you both some context for your discussion.Doing research ahead of time is crucial for starting the conversation on the right foot. It will help you gain a better understanding of how senior living works and what your loved ones individual needs might be. Its also important to remember that each senior living community is unique in its own way; some offer more amenities than others, while some focus on particular health issues or dietary concerns within their care plan. By doing thorough research ahead of time, you can identify which communities best fit your loved ones needs.Doing your research first when talking to your loved ones about senior living options will also help you find out which type of senior living would best fit your loved ones needs and preferences from independent living facilities with limited assistance to full-service care homes with round-the-clock medical attention so that you can have a meaningful discussion about their specific wants and needs.Maintain Open Communication & Let It Be an Ongoing Process Above all else, open communication is key when discussing this type of transition with your loved one. Its essential that they feel listened to and respected during each step of this process from researching options together to visiting different facilities to making final decisions about where they want to live in their golden years. Some facilities even offer various amenities and benefits to increase the comfort of their residents, including in-house catering for improved nutrition, event calendars for increased social interaction, and advanced security for increased peace of mind. When talking to your parents about senior living, listen to which amenities and services your family would love the most, and ensure you communicate these benefits to them.Secondly, rather than having one large discussion about moving into a senior living community, try having several small conversations over time instead. The goal should ultimately be finding a solution that meets your loved ones needs while still allowing them the freedom and dignity they deserve so dont rush anything or expect an immediate answer. Allow plenty of time for reflection so your loved one can process everything theyre hearing before making a final decision.  Additionally, keep in mind that if they feel overwhelmed by the idea of transitioning into senior living, they may not be ready yet and thats okay! Take it slow and allow them as much time as necessary before proceeding further down the path toward finding them a home.Talk in Person With Empathy and PositivityAbove all else, when talking to your parents about senior living options, its important to remember that this is not just about them moving out of their home its also about providing them with quality care in a safe environment where theyll continue to enjoy their retirement years without worry or stress. Approach the subject from an empathetic perspective one that acknowledges their fears but also encourages them by highlighting all the wonderful benefits senior living has to offer! When done correctly and respectfully, talking about senior living can ultimately lead to a positive outcome for everyone involved and hopefully bring peace of mind for both parties as well.Grace Pointe Senior Care Community of Greeley, Colorado: How We Can HelpStarting the conversation about transitioning into senior living can be daunting at first, but having an informed discussion sooner rather than later allows seniors more time to weigh their options and make decisions that feel comfortable for them while also giving families peace of mind knowing they have explored all available resources together. With patience, respect, understanding, and access to helpful resources like Grace Pointes Senior Care Resources, beginning these conversations doesnt have to be overwhelming or stressful instead, it can be reassuring and informative!At Grace Pointe Senior Care Community of Greeley, Colorado, our approach to care is customized to help when talking to your parents about senior living options available to them.  Our assisted living team is available to discuss care options in order to design a care plan that is best for you or your family member.We hope this article helped supply you with the information to make a confident and informed decision for you and your loved ones. However, if youre still not sure how to address this difficult but necessary conversation with your loved ones, we can help! We have numerous resources to help you make the right decision for your family, including our Complete Guide to Assisted Living in Greeley, Colorado. Also, feel free to take our Continuum of Care Quiz and let the expert team at Grace Pointe Senior Care Community match you with recommended services based on your answers.

Family-owned businesses are unique. The question is, how do they still thrive in todays competitive environment? To be a successful family-owned business in healthcare, they must be not only well-founded but also well-run. When a business such as Grace Pointe has been founded, owned, and run within a single-family setting, not only does it provide a strong story of our business, but it tells our customers where our focus is. A family-owned senior living campus can emphasize the culture and qualities like family life. In this article, we will share our top 6 reasons why you should consider working for a family-owned business in healthcare.Six of the most notable benefits of working for a family-owned senior care provider includes:When You Work For a Family-Owned Business, There is a Greater Sense of Commitment and a Unified TeamFamily-Owned Businesses are Built on Trust and AuthenticityGain Job Stability in an Ever-Changing Job MarketFamily-Owned Businesses Create a Higher Level of CareWhen You Feel Connection at Work- You Take More Pride in What You DoJoin a Team that Shares the Same Long-Term Goals and Vision1. When You Work For a Family-Owned Business, There is a Greater Sense of Commitment and a Unified TeamWhen you work for a family-owned business, one of the first things youll notice is the level of commitment employees have to each other and the business itself. From newer employees to those committed for many years, employees tend to feel much closer to their coworkers and residents. This closeness can translate to a compassionate and unified team made up of people who genuinely enjoy coming to work. Family-owned and -run senior care providers can achieve, support, and elevate a sense of stability in their team and the organizations structure and culture.2. Family-Owned Businesses are Built on Trust and AuthenticityWhen you work for a family-owned business, one of the first things youll notice is the level of commitment employees have to each other and the business itself. From newer employees to those committed for many years, employees tend to feel much closer to their coworkers and residents. This closeness can translate to a compassionate and unified team made up of people who genuinely enjoy coming to work. Family-owned and -run senior care providers can achieve, support, and elevate a sense of stability in their team and the organizations structure and culture.3. Gain Job Stability in an Ever-Changing Job MarketStability has been an interesting concept over the last year and a half.  Health care has fought hard against itself for a reducing workforce. Some family-owned and operated health care providers have benefited from having continuity and support for each other compared to large providers and systems own.There is an opportunity for development and growth in a local family-owned company because the team is made of those who know who they are dealing with and what kind of work to expect daily. Employees having clear expectations allows for higher employee retention attributed to the team bonds rather than to the bottom line.To support the morale and avoid conflict, family-owned businesses are less inclined to scale back their workforce during economic struggles. A decreased turnover rate is a long-term benefit to the team and the residents they care for. It can be seen as a source of quality service, professionalism, and respect.When a family is committed to the Senior care center, it allows for deep ties to each other, the care they provide, and most importantly, their residents satisfaction.4. Family-Owned Businesses Create a Higher Level of CareOne of the most obvious advantages of working for a family-owned business is the element of care. From staff-involved activities to training, there can be a culture of the happiest and most caring employees out there. Not only does this make for a more pleasant work environment, but the quality of the care being provided for their residents often increases along with it. In addition, when a business focuses on respect, unity, trust, and teamwork, employees are motivated to perform at higher levels for their residents, families, and the community.5. When You Feel Connection at Work- You Take More Pride in What You DoA properly run family-owned business allows for everyone to feel like a member of a team. Each member of the team takes the responsibility seriously, and it reflects in their work ethic. The more pride they feel that they are part of the extended family, the more likely employees are to keep striving to put in their best effort each day they are with the company. Interpersonal connection at work is the main driver of worker engagement and satisfaction, based on research from SHRM, the human resources trade association.6. Join a Team that Shares the Same Long-Term Goals and VisionIn a local and family-based senior care facility, you have a team and culture that focuses on the same long-term goals of supplying the best quality of care and compassion for those they serve. These businesses often last because they have proven goals in mind. Long-term goals are not just for the business but also for the team that helps move the company forward. Family-owned businesses like here at Grace Pointe emphasize supplying excellent quality services for their residents, families, and communities and supporting their team for the long term. This long-term vision allows for creative decision-making and strategy to meet goals.As a Greeley, Colorado, family-owned senior care facility, we continue to strive to hire, grow and keep a quality team of caregivers who are dedicated to our residents, the service we provide, and compassion toward our residents, families, and community. Learn more about our team and culture here at Grace Pointe.

As we get older, our parents are getting older, too. And while we may not be caring for our parents, we may have to discern how to help someone caring for an elderly parent. Caring for elderly parents can be an all-consuming season of life. Support for friends in this season can be simple acts of kindness or can look like coming alongside them in the care.Watching someone give everything to care for their elderly parent can be difficult. With all of their focus on their parent, you may see them decline in energy and enthusiasm, neglect and withdraw from normal patterns of life, and even grow in feelings of hopelessness. Its good and right to want to help during these times, though it can be difficult to know how. Here is some guidance on how to best show support.Be an Ear to Listen and a Voice to EncourageWhen someone is caring for an elderly parent, they may be hearing a lot of internal chatter. Frequently wondering if they are doing the right thing or if its making any difference, sometimes listening and encouraging will be the best support.Let them know they are doing a good job and mention ways you see them making a difference. Offer to sit and chat with them about how theyre doing and let them pick a time that works for them. Tell them you appreciate them and ask if there is anything you can do to help.Tackle Some Lingering TasksIn this season of full investment, there may be a list of things they simply havent gotten to. By offering to help, you can take some of the pressure off their shoulders, and allow them a bit more room to breathe.This might look like writing a grocery list and stocking that empty fridge, cooking dinner for them and their parent once a week, washing some of the piled-up laundry, or running some errands and picking up medication. Little things like these will help them to feel supported and less hopeless.Sacrifice Some Time to Help to Provide CareSometimes the work may be too much for them to manage themselves, and what would be best for them is for you to help with the care of their elderly parent. While you may not be able to give all of your time for support, even a days worth will provide relief.This can look like taking a Saturday to scrub the bathrooms and tidy the house, spending the day with their parent and allowing your friend to take some time to recharge, or even staying the night to help navigate the graveyard shift. Bigger supports like these will remind them theyre not alone.Suggesting Appropriate Alternatives for CarePerhaps the toughest part of supporting a friend through this time is knowing when its time to suggest an alternative method of care. Chances are theyve thought of this themselves, but havent chosen another option because they arent familiar with the options available.Trusting your parent to the care of someone else can be unsettling for some. Knowing if professional care is right for their parent can be difficult to discern. A practical way you can help them with this decision is by investigating the types of care available, and ultimately helping them choose the best option.Understanding the OptionsWhile someone caring for an elderly parent may not have time to investigate other options, you can help by doing the research for them. With the assortment of options available, taking the time to understand them on your friends behalf is an enormous support. Heres a look at a few of the options.Assisted Living  Moving a parent to an assisted living facility allows them to maintain as much autonomy as they are capable of, while also providing them the care they need. Learn more about assisted living here.Independent Living  Choosing an independent living service allows their parent to go about their lives the way theyre used to without the worries of household maintenance. Learn more about independent living here.Long-Term Care  Long-term care provides a more extensive care for their parent in an environment designed for family and loved ones to stay for dinner. Learn more about long-term care here.When Youve Done All You Can Do to Care for an Elderly ParentAs you support your friend in providing care for their elderly parent, you may see that there is only so much they can provide. While they may feel its their duty to care for their parent, choosing the support of an assisted living facility is not neglecting that responsibility; on the contrary, its fulfilling it. Its important for them to be able to recognize when theyve done all that they can do. As you gently help them see this, you can comfort them in assuring that assisted living is a quality, loving choice, and may be the best choice for caring for their parent.Learn more about assisted living, and contact Grace Pointe to gather the information you need.

When those of us at Grace Pointe Senior Care Community reference a Continuum of Care, what were really talking about is the ability to provide a smooth transition through the various levels of care we provide here at our Greeley campus.Whether youre here for the first time as a patient of our Rehabilitation Center, or youre exploring the options of Independent Living, our experienced team of care professionals work to promote good communication between patients, residents, caregivers, and healthcare providers with the goal of keeping the resident or patient healthy and happy with the level of care desired.If skilled home health care is desired, our team will assist patients in finding a home health care professional. However, our Continuum of Care also works within Grace Pointe. Our Continuum of Care concept allows residents to age in place at Grace Pointe Senior Community, relieving the stress and burden of having to relocate to a different facility based on varying care needs.Individuals who become familiar and comfortable with Grace Pointe and our Greeley campus during rehabilitation or while residing in one of the independent living neighborhoods will not find their lives disrupted if they are in need of additional care services, even if the result is transitioning into assisted living, hospice or memory care.Interested in seeing how our Continuum of Care connects our campus together? Click here to request a low-pressure tour of Grace Pointe today.

Just like all of us, seniors with Alzheimers disease and other types of dementia benefit from feeling engaged and participating in activities that allow them to be productive. Many memory care communities, like the one here at Grace Pointe Senior Care Community in Greeley, offer specialized memory care activities and entertainment to help stimulate the brain and inspire feelings of accomplishment among our residents who have a form of dementia. According to the World Health Organization, 55 million people live with a form of dementia worldwide and there are nearly 10 million new cases every year. The most common type of dementia is Alzheimers disease, which contributes to 60-70% of all cases. Dementia disease symptoms are different in every person, but usually can affect all or various combinations of memory, thinking, orientation, comprehension, calculation, learning capacity, language, and judgment. As a result of experiencing all of these symptoms, seniors can also feel changes in mood, emotional control, behavior, or motivation. At Grace Pointe, we have found that a memory care community with a variety of personalized activity offerings helps to inspire purpose and accomplishment among our residents. Here are some of the memory care activities and specialized support we utilize within our community to help keep our residents engaged and inspired in our facility.Listening To MusicMusic has numerous benefits for seniors with Alzheimers and dementia diseases. In fact, music has been shown to have effects on improving understanding, mood, behavior, and communication, according to several studies by the National Library of Medicine on music intervention for Alzheimers disease.At Grace Pointe, music is just one of many memory care activities our community integrates into our residents care plan. Here are some of the ways we utilize the sounds of music to benefit our memory care residents:Playing classic records or tunes on a jukebox in common areas. Having residents access the long-term memory of their brains regularly can help slow the progression of different forms of dementia.Hosting sing-along events of hymns, holiday songs, or school songs with residents. Even as verbal and mental abilities decline, music-related memory can remain in some residents with dementia.Have residents make their own music with simple percussion instruments like maracas, shakers, a piano, tambourine, etc. Having music events like this can even encourage dancing and movement, offering physical benefits as well for seniors.As caregivers at memory care communities start to understand how the musical interests, tempo, and dynamics affect the mind and body of each resident, communication becomes easier. The benefits of music as a therapy for senior residents with dementia can be endless.Watching VideosAnother engaging activity commonly utilized in memory care communities for seniors, believe it or not, is watching videos. The benefits of watching videos for seniors with dementia are one of the integral forms of memory care activities that cannot be ignored. The stimulation alone through different faces, shapes, colors, and sound engages seniors brains on a whole new level. At Grace Pointe, some of the best ways we have found to integrate this memory care activity are videos of familiar memories. Showing familiar locations and people transports seniors with dementia and helps to calm them. The best ways we have found to do that is through old home movies, showing old movies from the 1940s-1980s, and playing recorded historical events, like the moon landing or WWII videos.Stimulating & Creative ActivitiesIts no coincidence that you find puzzles, games, and arts and crafts centered around the common areas in almost every senior care community. In addition to watching videos for stimulation, there are many memory care activities that can help to combat boredom without a screen. Keeping residents with dementia entertained and stimulated works to combat boredom, which can lead to increased restlessness, wandering, and anxiety. Activities such as picture puzzles, word searches, and games, providing old magazines for residents to create collages, or providing multicolored clay or play dough for them to mold into something new, help offer a creative outlet for seniors with memory issues.Group ActivitiesRegardless of the kind of dementia, all residents want to feel like they are a part of a community or bigger purpose. So, in addition to integrating various activities personalized to each residents interests, group activities are also important for seniors in memory care communities. Some fun ideas are to create bingo nights, costume parties, community gardening activities, and even an event around a fun holiday like National Doughnut Day or National Puzzle Day. The purpose is to bring everyone together toward a common goal or celebration to add excitement and belonging to a variety of residents.Memory Care Services At Grace Pointe Senior Care Community in Greeley, ColoradoWe hope this article has helped you understand how important ongoing engagement and stimulation are for senior loved ones experiencing Alzheimers or dementia disease symptoms. Memory care activities like music, video, and arts and crafts, need to be both personalized to their interests, yet offer them a sense of purpose to capture their interests and stimulate their minds.At Grace Pointe, we offer specialized support for our memory care residents. From Alzheimers to other forms of dementia, our staff cares for the varying needs of an individuals diagnosis. Your loved ones needs may become more complex as time goes on, so we provide activities designed to tap into the interests and skills of our residents through memory care activities and outings to complement the care provided to them daily.When youre ready, schedule a tour with one of our compassionate caregivers, and lets see if Grace Pointe is right for you or your loved one. Please call us today with any questions, 970-304-1919.

It can be difficult to know if your parent or loved one needs to visit a senior rehab center. However, when an aging loved one needs extra help with their recovery it is one of the options to consider. Senior rehab centers cater to your aging loved ones unique medical needs and will help to speed up their recovery. In turn, this saves you and them precious time and helps them have the best opportunity for regaining their health and independence.There are a variety of factors that can contribute to the decision for your senior parent to go to a senior rehab center, like the one at Grace Pointe. Below we will review common reasons for senior rehab center care, what it looks like, and the reasons why Grace Pointe Senior Rehab Center is a great choice for you and your family.What Is Senior Rehab Care?Senior rehab care must be ordered by a hospital physician or their primary care provider for a patient who requires extra support and supervision during their recovery. It can be an option for a  patient who has not returned to their baseline following an injury, illness, or surgical procedure. All rehab care services are designed to help seniors recovering from an injury or a variety of serious medical events. Some examples of care services provided in a senior rehab center include occupational therapy, wound care, intravenous (IV) therapies, and physical therapy. Physical therapy is a service often provided in a senior rehab center to help seniors gain back mobility, balance, and flexibility, or even to manage pain on the road to full or partial recovery. The important thing to remember about rehabilitation centers for seniors is that it is usually a type of temporary, short-term care for patients. The sole purpose in most cases of senior rehab care is to regain back as much strength to go back to where and how they were living prior to the accident or incident, if possible.Top Reasons for Senior RehabThere are a lot of reasons why your aging loved ones physician may recommend rehab services. The top conditions for a post-hospitalization stay include:Broken Hips or FracturesJoint Injuries or ReplacementAneurysmParkinsons DiseaseNeurological ConditionsStrokeHeart AttackArthritisOsteoporosisBrain InjuryTumor/CancerMultiple SclerosisLimited MobilityFrequent FallsAmputationSwallowing IssuesPneumoniaDoes My Parent Need A Senior Rehab Center?Choosing the proper care plan for your senior parent after an accident or medical happening can be challenging. A lot of times the same short-term care services, like senior rehab, are connected to the long-term care facilities they might need now or in the future, so choosing the right location is pivotal. What can help make this decision easier is understanding your senior parents day-to-day abilities and activities. This can help you and the hospital team determine if they do or do not need senior rehab services to help them return to their lives and speed up their recovery. If they cannot carry on with their daily activities and habits, a senior rehab center is a great option for recovery.The Grace Pointe Senior Rehab Center ExperienceAt Grace Pointe, we are committed to giving seniors somewhere to recover post-surgery or after having a major illness that is both comfortable, caring, and private. Grace Pointe has 26 studios dedicated to post-hospital, short-term rehab. Our Senior Rehab Center experience provides 24-hour skilled nursing care, as well as physical, occupational, and speech therapies provided in an elegant, home-like setting.Learn more about our Senior Rehab services by clicking here. And explore all of our Care Services and how they can help assist you and your aging parents in the Greeley area today!

The effects of passing time are taking their toll on all of us. Accepting this reality for ourselves can be tough, but watching it happen to our dear parents? Even tougher. Its a difficult position to be in to know that your parents can no longer take care of themselves, and not be sure of what or when to do something about it.Taking care of the grown-ups that taught you how to care for yourself can be an emotionally daunting experience. At Grace Pointe, we want you to feel well equipped to make those tough decisions when the time comes. Below you will find some key signs to watch for that will suggest your parents can no longer take care of themselves, accompanied by some options to support you through this tough time.When to Provide Support for Your Elderly ParentsAs you watch your parents age, youll begin to see them change. Many of these changes, like wisdom, patience, and kindness, are a delight to experience. Other changes, like frailty, loss of memories, or general apathy, can be difficult to watch. There will come a point when it will be clear that they need help. Here are some signs to help you know when that time has come.Increased Apathy Around Health and LifestyleYou may notice your parents grow seemingly apathetic about things they once cared about. Instead of going out for errands or activities, theyve become a hermit in their home. Instead of keeping up with household chores, theyre living in a cluttered mess. Instead of staying on top of their personal hygiene, you notice theyre no longer showering or brushing their teeth.These apparent signs of apathy can occur for a variety of reasons. Our parents can become more anxious with age, keeping them home, more afraid to do the things they normally do. For some, it may become too difficult to keep up with daily normalities. In other cases, these behaviors may be a sign of mental unhealth.Loss of Ability to Remain Safe in the Current EnvironmentThere may come a point when the environment your parents have lived in becomes unsafe for them to stay in. Oftentimes, the greatest danger for an elderly person is falling while completing normal activities. As we grow frailer with age, these falls can be particularly threatening. Keeping an eye out for bruises or damaged furniture can help you spot this problem.You may notice your parents are losing weight inexplicably. This can be happening due to a variety of mental and physical conditions. This may also be due to neglect of their individual health. Regardless of the reason, weight loss can be worrisome and is worth investigating.Apparent Difficulty with MemoryThere are a handful of instances where you may notice your parents memory failing. Perhaps theyre experiencing financial difficulties because of failure to remember to make payments. Maybe you notice them arriving late to events at familiar places because theyve gotten lost along the way. You may also observe them having difficulty completing once simple tasks.Like the other signs weve discussed, there can be many reasons for these observations. In any case, it will become increasingly clear that its time to step in to help. While your parents age inevitably, you can be sure they age safely.Talking to Your Parents About Your ConcernsOnce youve concluded that your parents can no longer care for themselves, youll need to have a conversation with them. Communicating this to your parents can prove challenging for some. While some of our parents may be fine with this news, having perceived these signs themselves, others may be offended by this news feeling it marks a loss of independence, or even insisting they dont need help. Here are some things to remember when having these conversations.Be gentle. Youre delivering big news. It may be hard to receive, so deliver it gently.Be patient. Your parents may not receive the news well. Be patient with them while they work through it.Be humble. Your parents are your parents, and theyve lived a lot of life. Be humble and acknowledge your parents input.Be informed. Youre suggesting some big changes. Be informed and do your research on what all those changes entail.Understanding the Options for Providing Care for Your ParentsIn some cases, for some amount of time, you may be able to help your parents yourself, whether that looks like moving them to your house, moving in with them, or visiting more frequently. For many, though, this can be difficult in the midst of the movement of their own lives. Not being able to care for your parents yourself doesnt mean you dont care about them. It also doesnt mean they cant be cared for. Here are some great alternative options to consider.Assisted Living  Moving your parents to an assisted living facility allows them to maintain as much autonomy as they are capable of, while also providing them the care they need. Learn more about assisted living here.Independent Living  Choosing an independent living service allows your parents to go about their lives the way theyre used to without the worries of household maintenance. Learn more about independent living here.Long-Term Care  Long-term care provides a more extensive care for your parents in an environment designed for family and loved ones to stay for dinner. Learn more about long-term care here.At Grace Pointe, Your Parents Can Age In PlaceAs your parents age, their needs will change. Its important to provide them with an environment where they can safely and comfortably age in place. At Grace Pointe, we can provide that environment, and with our customized approach to care, you can be sure your parents specific needs are our priority. Explore our services, and provide your parents with the care they need.

The main difference between independent living, assisted living, and skilled care is the level of support and assistance each type of facility provides. Independent living facilities are designed for seniors who are still relatively independent and do not need much help with activities of daily living. Assisted living facilities provide a higher level of support and assistance, and skilled care facilities provide the highest level of care, including 24-hour nursing care.Determining what level of care you or your family member needs can be difficult however, our team is here to help you navigate this transition and we have resources like the Continuum of Care Quiz to help you decide which level is care is right for you or your loved one.We recommend exploring our care service pages, taking our care quiz, and scheduling a free consult before choosing which is right for you. In the meantime, here are some key differences between our care services all in one place.Independent LivingIndependent living residents dont need help with their activities of daily living but have chosen to simplify their lives so they can focus on whats most important to them and leave burdensome everyday tasks to the trusted staff.Residents are provided laundry and housekeeping services, creative and chef-prepared meals and snacks, cozy libraries with fireplaces, books, and puzzles, and beautifully landscaped grounds and patios.Independent living at Grace Pointe allows residents to maintain independence with private apartments, assuring them a strong sense of peace of mind through security features, nearby medical experts, and 24-hour emergency response systems.Grace Pointe offers a social atmosphere where residents can participate in group and individual activities and wellness classes, host their own gatherings in the common room and kitchen, meet with friends or family at the coffee bar & bistro or pamper themselves at the full-service salon and barbershop!Learn more about Independent Living at Grace Pointe in Greeley, Colorado.Assisted LivingAssisted living residents are still fairly independent, but may find it challenging to accomplish daily tasks, and may have mobility issues, special dietary needs, medication management concerns, or require help with bathing and dressing.As a full-service assisted living facility, Grace Pointe can provide medical transportation, assistance with medications, exercise and wellness programs, basic health status monitoring, assistance with toilet use and bathing, and nursing supervision or monitoring.Residents in assisted living may require some help with their daily tasks but dont require extensive medical care.Seniors moving into assisted living at Grace Pointe do so for the security of knowing that we have 24-hour staffing, for the socialization that a community provides, and for oversight and assistance when and if it becomes necessary.Learn more about Assisted Living at Grace Pointe in Greeley, Colorado.Skilled NursingSkilled Nursing at Grace Pointe includes 24-hour monitoring for residents with extensive medical needs and assistance by nurses and CNAs trained to address the everyday needs of residents in an elegant, home-like setting.Grace Pointes Skilled Nursing neighborhood has private units, each with comfortable adjustable beds, European showers, elegant dining and living room, chef-prepared meals, and a nurse call system.Learn more about Skilled Nursing at Grace Pointe in Greeley, Colorado.We have neighborhoods for Independent Living, Assisted Living and Long Term Care providing a comfortable home for you or your family member no matter the life stage. 

When you think of an independent living community, what comes to mind? Whatever you imagine, an independent living community can often be a fresh start for most seniors. There are multiple benefits of independent living for seniors in these communities because they can enhance and improve their quality of life in many unseen ways. Independent living communities are a great option for any active senior who wants to fully enjoy the perks of retirement. At Grace Pointe Senior Care Community of Greeley, Colorado, our independent living facility is the perfect alternative for residents who want to maintain their independence. Lets explore the top benefits of independent living facilities to see if it might make sense as the perfect next step for you or your loved ones.IndependenceOne of the common misconceptions of independent living communities for seniors is that it will take away your independence. In fact, one of the most obvious benefits for seniors in an independent living community is independence. Independent living gives seniors the opportunity to maintain their independence and still do daily activities for themselves. Being independent gives seniors purpose and increases satisfaction in their lives. Feeling independent has been shown to promote a sense of belonging, and purpose, and even increase happiness.Freedom From Ongoing Home MaintenanceIn addition to independence, one of the most sought-after benefits of independent living for seniors is freedom from the responsibilities that come from owning a home. Things like daily cleaning, chores, yard work, and ongoing repairs can take a toll on your mental and physical health. Living without the responsibility of having to do chores around the house is a seniors dream come true! Independent living communities, like the one here at Grace Pointe Senior Care Community of Greeley, Colorado, allow you to completely escape the ongoing responsibilities and chores of home maintenance. At Grace Pointe, our Independent Living Services include full-service laundry, access to a full-time maintenance team that will take care of inside and outside maintenance, and house cleaning services.All-Inclusive Rent & No Added CostsAnother added benefit of independent living for seniors is you get to live an all-inclusive lifestyle. Independent living can be the ultimate vacation for retirees and seniors because they no longer have to worry about multiple bills, added expenses, and the costs of ongoing home upgrades. Everything is included in one cost, and you are really able to live the maintenance-free lifestyle you always wanted.At Grace Pointe Senior Care Community, residents in our Independent Living community enjoy many perks. Perks like extended cable tv and wireless internet are all included in their rent, eliminating any added stress of having to pay multiple bills.The Balance of Both Privacy & CommunityThe next benefit of independent living for seniors is the ideal balance of both privacy and community that residents can find. In an independent living community, you have both the privacy of your own space with the benefit of a social community woven into one. Seniors are able to be involved in multiple activities within their community right outside their door, but still, have the freedom to enjoy their cozy residence by themselves whenever they want to.At Grace Pointe, our Independent Living community has both group and individual activities, as well as wellness classes any resident can participate in whenever they like. Our residents are invited to take part in various daily activities from our activities and social calendar. Being a part of our independent living community makes it easy to stay as socially active as any senior would want, with access to those activities right outside their door.Delicious & Nutritious FoodThe next benefit of independent living for seniors is access to good, fulfilling food. One of the biggest concerns of seniors is continuing to support healthy aging with proper nutrition. Cooking and finding the right foods in a grocery store is an added stress that is taken away by most independent living facilities.Thats why at Grace Pointe Senior Care Community we provide chef-prepared meals for all our residents. Chefs use only high-quality ingredients and can cater to dietary needs by request to ensure seniors are fueling their bodies with proper nutrition.Convenient Amenities to Stay Socially ActiveThe last benefit of independent living for seniors is the convenient ways to stay socially engaged through our added features and amenities. Some independent living facilities offer opportunities for ways to stay social, make friends, and even prioritize self-care. Features like an on-site sale and barber shop, coffee bar, community room, ongoing activities, and wellness programs, are just a few of the perks and amenities of living at Grace Pointe Senior Care Community. Having amenities readily available within an independent living community makes it easy for seniors to stay socially active without the added stress of having to find activities. Like-minded seniors are right outside your door in an independent living community with ongoing activities like this. The Benefits of Living at Grace Pointe Independent Living CommunityAs you can see, the benefits of independent living for seniors are significant. This living situation is typically for those seniors who would like to live the all-inclusive vacation lifestyle to experience life with zero household maintenance worries. Seniors can live with the convenience of on-site amenities, events, and social interaction. At Grace Pointe Senior Care Community of Greeley Colorado, our independent living community helps our residents maintain their independence in a private apartment while enjoying the peace of mind that community living, with security features and medical experts nearby, brings. Its a fulfilling type of senior living option solution to help with the sometimes-difficult transition from living on their own and allows them to keep some level of independence.We hope this information helped supply you with the information to make a confident and informed decision for you and your loved ones. However, if youre still not sure if independent living is the right fit, we can help! Take our Continuum of Care Quiz and let the expert team at Grace Pointe Senior Care Community match you with recommended services based on your answers. Please call us with any questions 970-304-1919.

In Colorado, our senior population has felt the majority of the pandemics severity with 23,978 total cases, more than 2,500 deaths, and an estimated 730 facilities impacted as a result of COVID-19.To fight against the airborne transmission of illnesses, such as COVID-19 and the flu ,Continuum Health Management has announced the installation of a Needlepoint Bipolar Ionization (NPBI) air purification system at multiple Colorado-based senior care communities, including Sharmar Village Senior Care Community in Pueblo, Grace Pointe Senior Care Community in Greeley, and Vista Mesa Assisted Living Residence in Cortez.Having been raised in a Colorado community and knowing the residents and families at the highest risk, we take our responsibility to maintain the best environment possible for our residents very seriously, said Erik Briscoe, director of business development at Continuum Health Management. While we have implemented the highest level of sanitization and social distancing practices across our care campuses, studies show that shared air (HVAC) systems make it possible to spread illnesses. Every apartment and resident room is equipped with individual HVAC units, which helps to provide very high-level air quality for each resident. Additionally, by installing this cutting-edge whole-building air scrubbing system, we are investing in better air quality for every member of our care communities.NPBI technology works to clean the air inside buildings through an electronic charge to create a plasma field with a high concentration of ions. Those ions travel through the air and attach to particles to deactivate the virus. It also eliminates odors, pathogens, mold, allergens, and smoke. We specifically chose NPBI as a solution to our shared air concerns because it has been independently tested and proven to destroy COVID-19, said Briscoe. In an independent study backed by a specialty HVAC company, Tayra, needlepoint bi-polar ionizers were placed inside of a room where coronavirus patients had been housed. Within 10 minutes, the ionizers destroyed 99.4 percent of the coronavirus particles in the air and 80 percent of surface-living particles.The State of Colorado's mandated shutdowns and isolation requirements for senior care facilities have been very difficult for both our residents and their families, said Briscoe. We have observed all required mandates, which do not permit visitors, admission tours, outside events, or non-essential outside contractors. By investing in this state-of-the-art virus-killing air purification system and our continued screening vigilance, the care teams can look forward to returning to a more normal life for our residents, their families, and the caregivers themselves. Bipolar ionization is experiencing a surge in popularity as the coronavirus pandemic increases concern about air quality, specifically shared air. This technology first arrived in the United States in the 1970s to control pathogens in food manufacturing and was also used to combat the SARS outbreak of 2004, as well as to fight MERS and norovirus pathogens. In recent years, bipolar ionization is utilized in sterile room environments like hospitals, chemotherapy centers, pharmaceutical environments, food manufacturing plants, airports, and other large commercial sites. Outside of the current overwhelmingly urgent need, this system will benefit the wellbeing of our residents and staff by better addressing air quality for years to come, said Briscoe. Our family and company continually seek to deliver the highest quality in every aspect of the care we deliver to our residents, including the research and adoption of industry-leading technologies, long after the threat of COVID-19 subsides.

Staying physically active is crucial for people of all ages. As we grow older it becomes even more essential. Being active in a routine exercise program can have many benefits including flexibility, emotional well-being, and heart, bone, and joint health.  As we age it may become more difficult to find physical activities that are enjoyable and appropriate for our physical limitations. Especially those with limited mobility or chronic conditions. Here are a few exercise ideas for seniors that may be of interest and accessible for everyone to stay active and healthy at any age.  WalkingWalking doesnt require expensive equipment or fancy clothes.  It can be done anywhere, anytime.   You can walk at the local senior center with friends, in the neighborhood with your family or on your own around a park. Starting slow and knowing your limits is key.  Building distance and intensity can increase in time or just remain the same. It is your exercise program, your choice.  Balance and Exercise ClassBalance and Exercise classes have been known to show to improvement in balance, flexibility, and even mental health. Joining a low-impact exercise class is a great way to be surrounded by those also interested in improvement and in a safe, supervised environment.   You can join these classes in a group setting at the local Senior Center, on video from the library or online in the comfort of your own home.  Most of these classes take into consideration all levels of functional abilities. SwimmingSwimming is another low-impact exercise that is easy on the joints and muscles. Many recreation and senior centers offer water exercise classes for movement such as aerobics specifically designed for seniors.Dancing and Movement ClassDancing may seem like something difficult if you have limitations or chronic illness but there are specially designed classes to consider all individual needs.  Dancing is a great way to move and have fun at the same time. It can be ballroom, line dancing, or just movement to your favorite music, it all can improve balance, coordination, and flexibility. Many community centers and senior centers offer dance classes specifically tailored for seniors. It is never too late for anyone of any age to start moving.Starting out slow and small can build to make a great impact.   Before you get started it is always best to consult with your physician first.  They will let you know areas of limitations and signs to watch for specific to you and your medical conditions.  For more information about the exercise programs and activities hosted at Grace Pointe Senior Care Community contact us today.    

If youre looking for a rewarding way to spend your free time, why not consider volunteering with seniors? Volunteering with seniors can offer you many benefits, such as: Making New Friends and ConnectionsSeniors have a wealth of life experience and wisdom to share, and they can also be great listeners and companions. You can learn from their stories, enjoy their humor, and support them in their challenges. You might even find a mentor or a role model among them.Improving Your Health and Well-BeingVolunteering with seniors can boost your mood, reduce your stress, and increase your self-esteem. It can also help you stay physically active, mentally stimulated, and socially engaged. Studies have shown that volunteering can lower your blood pressure, improve your immune system, and even extend your lifespan. Giving Back to Your CommunitySeniors are valuable members of our society, but they often face isolation, loneliness, and neglect. By volunteering with seniors, you can show them that they are not forgotten, that they are respected, and that they matter. You can also help them access the resources and services they need, such as transportation, health care, or social activities. Developing New Skills and InterestsVolunteering with seniors can expose you to new perspectives, cultures, and hobbies. You can also learn new skills or improve existing ones, such as communication, leadership, problem-solving, or empathy. Volunteering can also enhance your resume and career prospects, as it demonstrates your commitment, initiative, and teamwork.There are many ways to volunteer with seniors, depending on your availability, preferences, and goals. You can:Visit seniors in their homes or in care facilities. You can chat with them, play games with them, read to them, or help them with daily tasksJoin or organize social events for seniors. You can host a tea party, a movie night, a bingo game, or a dance class. You can also invite seniors to join you in your hobbies or interests, such as gardening, knitting, or hikingTeach seniors new skills or technologies. You can help them learn how to use a computer, a smartphone, or the internet. You can also teach them a language, a musical instrument, or a craftAdvocate for seniors rights and needs. You can raise awareness about the issues and challenges that seniors face in your community. You can also support campaigns or organizations that work for seniors welfare and dignityBenefits of Volunteering at Grace Pointe Senior Care Community of Greeley, ColoradoVolunteering with seniors can be a fulfilling and enjoyable experience for both you and them. It can enrich your life in many ways and make a positive difference in theirs. If youre interested in volunteering with seniors, contact Grace Pointe Senior Care of Greeley. We will match you with suitable opportunities and provide you with training and guidance. Volunteering with seniors is more than just a good deed. Its an opportunity to grow as a person and to connect with others who have so much to offer. So dont hesitate to give it a try. You might be surprised by how much you gain from it.

As we journey through life, many people find themselves facing one of the most pressing concerns: ensuring that they provide care and support to their loved ones, particularly their aging parents, as they transition into their senior years. Long-term senior care frequently raises questions and concerns, with one of the most common worries being, What if my parents run out of money?The cost of senior care services can indeed be a significant burden on families. Many are apprehensive about the affordability of these services and the potential financial strain they might impose. This is where a comprehensive continuum of care approach, like the one offered by Grace Pointe of Greeley, can make all the difference.Tailored Care for Your Unique NeedsOur team of experienced care professionals adopts a personalized approach to assess the specific care needs of each resident. We commit to ensuring that you dont pay for services that you or your loved one dont need. This ensures that you wont bear unnecessary costs, and your loved ones will receive the appropriate level of care to enhance their quality of life.If the affordability of long-term senior care concerns you, Grace Pointes approach is here to help. We dedicate ourselves to providing the right care at the right cost, supporting both your financial peace of mind and your loved ones well-being.To learn more about our long-term senior care services and our continuum of care approach, visit our Grace Pointe of Greeleys Long-Term Senior Care Services page.Frequently Asked Questions About Long-Term Senior CareAt Grace Pointe, we understand the financial concerns that come with long-term senior care, and were here to put your mind at ease. Our continuum of care services is designed to ensure affordability while providing your loved ones with the precise level of care they need. We understand that every individual is unique, and their care requirements can vary greatly which is why we have compiled this list of FAQs about long term senior care services below.What is long-term senior care, and when is it needed?Long-term senior care is a comprehensive service designed to provide assistance and support for seniors who may require help with daily activities due to age-related challenges or medical conditions. It becomes necessary when individuals find it increasingly difficult to maintain their independence and well-being.How do I know which type of long-term senior care is suitable for my loved one?Our experienced care professionals at Grace Pointe will assess your loved ones individual needs and recommend the most appropriate level of care. We believe in personalized care plans to ensure your loved one receives the best possible care.What is the cost of long-term senior care at Grace Pointe, and how can I afford it?The cost of long-term senior care varies depending on the level of care and services required. Grace Pointe offers a continuum of care approach, ensuring you only pay for the care your loved one needs. We will work with you to explore financing options, including community resources for  Medicaid and Veterans benefits, to make care more affordable.Can I visit my loved one in long-term senior care at Grace Pointe of Greeley?Yes, we encourage family visits and understand the importance of staying connected. We also encourage you to enjoy activities and events to see the life of Grace Pointe experienced by your family members.  There are some guidelines for visiting after hours to ensure the safety and comfort of the Grace Pointe residents, which can be discussed with our staff.How can I learn more about Grace Pointes long-term senior care options?You can explore more details about our long-term senior care services on our Long-Term Care Services page. Feel free to contact our team for specific information and to request a tour.How can Grace Pointe of Greeley help ensure that I dont pay for services my loved one doesnt need in the long term?At Grace Pointe, we understand the importance of affordability in long-term senior care. We offer a continuum of care approach, which means we tailor care plans to your loved ones specific needs. By doing so, we ensure that you only pay for the necessary services, maximizing affordability while maintaining high-quality care. Can I modify my loved ones care plan if their needs change over time?Yes, we understand that care needs can change. At Grace Pointe, we regularly review care plans and adjust them to accommodate changing requirements to ensure your loved one receives the best care.For answers to common questions about long-term senior care and all our services, visit our FAQ page.Dont let financial concerns hold you back from providing the best care for your aging parents. Grace Pointe of Greeley is here to support you every step of the way. Reach out to our care team with any other questions you may have about your familys care.

Life is a journey filled with transitions, and one of the most significant transitions many individuals face as they age is transitioning from independent living to assisted living. This transition can be a challenging decision, but it often becomes necessary when daily tasks and self-care become more difficult to manage alone. In this blog, we will explore the steps and considerations for patients and their families when making the move from independent care to assisted living, with a special focus on the Grace Pointe Continuum of Care difference.Assessing the Need for Assisted LivingThe first step in transitioning to assisted living is recognizing the signs that indicate a need for additional support. These signs may include:Difficulty with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and meal preparationMemory problems or cognitive decline that impact safety and well-beingFrequent falls or injuries due to mobility issuesSocial isolation and lonelinessMedication management challengesThe need for regular medical supervision and assistance Open CommunicationOnce the need for assisted living becomes apparent and the process of transitioning from independent living to assisted living begins, it is essential to have open and honest discussions with the individual who will be making the transition. This may involve a family meeting or conversations with healthcare professionals. It is crucial to listen to the concerns and preferences of the person who will be moving, as their input should be valued throughout the decision-making process. Navigating the Continuum of Care with Grace Pointe: Your Assurance of a Smooth TransitionAs weve discussed earlier, the decision to move from independent care to assisted living, marking the transition from independent living to assisted living, is a significant one, and its natural to have concerns about the future. Many individuals and families worry about whether theyll receive the care they need as their health requirements change.At Grace Pointe of Greeley, we understand these concerns and are committed to ensuring a seamless transition through our Continuum of Care. Lets explore how Grace Pointes approach is different and how we provide residents with the assurance they deserve.The Continuum of Care Approach: A Personalized PathwayOne of the key features that sets Grace Pointe apart is our Continuum of Care approach. This approach is designed to help residents and their families identify their current care needs and anticipate future requirements. Ongoing assessments are done by our care team to help create a personalized care plan that evolves with the individuals changing needs. This means that residents at Grace Pointe who are looking into transitioning from independent living to assisted living are not locked into a specific level of care, and theres no need to worry about a dishonest bait and switch scenario.Heres how the Continuum of Care approach works:Initial Assessment: When a resident joins Grace Pointe, we conduct a thorough assessment of their health, preferences, and care needs. This forms the foundation of their care plan.Regular Reassessment: We understand that health can change over time. Thats why we commit to regular reassessments of our residents. If their care needs increase or decrease, we adjust their care plan accordingly.Transparent Communication: We foster open and transparent communication with our residents and their families. If a change in care level is required, we discuss it thoroughly and collaboratively.To provide you with a deeper understanding of the exceptional care and support offered at Grace Pointe of Greeley, we invite you to read testimonials from residents and their families who have experienced our continuum of care firsthand. These heartfelt accounts will shed light on the compassionate and personalized care that sets Grace Pointe apart in the journey and benefits from independent living to assisted living.The benefits of independent living at Grace Pointe of Greeley are clear; here, residents can enjoy a worry-free life without the burden of household maintenance while maintaining a healthy level of independence. Yet, when it comes to transitioning to higher levels of care, such as assisted living or nursing care, the process can be emotionally challenging for both loved ones and their families. This shift can be accompanied by mixed feelings, as it often involves adapting to new routines, healthcare requirements, and a shift in the level of autonomy. Grace Pointes Continuum of Care approach supports each transition without the need for residents to physically relocate. Instead, they add necessary services while remaining in their current living units, tailored to each individual and their family for the ultimate peace of mind.Your Peace of Mind at Grace Pointe of GreeleyAt Grace Pointe of Greeley, we are deeply committed to our residents well-being. The transition from independent living to assisted living should not be a source of anxiety. At Grace Pointe of Greeley, we go above and beyond to ensure that residents have peace of mind about their care journey. Experience the Grace Pointe difference through our Continuum of Care approach, where we tailor each transition, ensuring that your family member moves seamlessly from one living arrangement to another with care, compassion, and a deep sense of belonging.We understand that everyones care needs are unique, and we are dedicated to providing the right level of care at the right time, tailored to you and your familys needs. With Grace Pointe, you can be confident that you or your loved one will receive the care and support needed to thrive at every stage of life.

Your loved one may feel apprehensive about moving to an assisted living community. But with the variety of assisted living activities to choose from, theyll find themselves feeling right at home in no time. Residents of assisted living communities often argue theyre in the prime of their lives. Sure, they need support here and there, but theyre ready and eager to enjoy their lives and spend their time doing things that bring them joy. Assisted living activities are designed with this mentality in mind. At first, moving to an assisted living community can feel like giving up time and freedom. On the contrary, its gaining more freedom to enjoy your time. Here are some examples of a few residents who found themselves enjoying their assisted living community.The MusicianHenry is a veteran, a widower, and a father. Hard-working in all that hes done, from his career to his hobbies. One of those hobbies is singing and playing songs on his guitar. Over the years, hes used his music to work through and process his lifes many adventures; hes since come quite to enjoy playing his music for other people.Through Henrys years in retirement, hes found that he cant get around the way hed always been able to. He uses the cane his wife had bought for him, but as of late, hes needed extra support. He makes the most of it, though, as staying put allows him more time to play his guitar. Henrys grown children had been spending more time with him to help him fetch things and run errands. He was unsure when they mentioned an assisted living community as a good option to get him the extra support he needs. Henry believed assisted living activities consisted of bingo and canasta; he didnt want to give up his music.As the story goes, Henry complied with his childrens suggestions and moved to an assisted living community. To his surprise, hes had the time of his life. Henry has a regular and grateful audience to play his music for at the community music night, and hes also found other musicians to play with. Together theyve found their sound and have even toyed with the idea of touring other assisted living communities.The GardenerGeorge is a retired mechanic, a brother, and as curious as they come. During his career in the automotive industry, George used his curiosity to create innovative methods and practices for tackling the many mechanical issues that came his way. He loved watching things work as they should.Around the time George retired, he took up gardening as a hobby and has since developed quite the green thumb. His garden, filled with a variety of vegetables and beautiful flowers, has been his whole focus over the last few years. So much so that he often lacks the energy to and interest in cooking for himself.Georges sister has assisted by cooking meals for him but has discovered she can no longer afford the extra time to provide this support. She did some research and found that an assisted living community may be a good fit for her brother. When she brought it up to him, however, George, though understanding, was afraid to leave his garden behind.George now lives in an assisted living community, and while he gave up his garden at home, hes enjoyed a new one here. Some of his fellow gardening club members have offered helpful tips that have made this garden even more beautiful than the last.The Party PlannerJeanie is a mother, a wife, and the life of the party. She loves the details associated with planning events. For Jeanie, the joy others experience at her events makes it all worth it. She was a stay-at-home mom while her children were growing up and volunteered to plan every birthday party, every holiday get-together, and as her children moved through the education system, every graduation celebration.As her children are now grown, and she and her husband have settled into retirement, theyve begun conversations about an assisted living community. Aware that some of their daily activities will become more difficult as they continue to age, theyre hoping to find a safe environment to age in place.In typical Jeanie fashion, she planned the whole move. She found the perfect place in a town not too far from their home, and before they moved in, she even threw a party to celebrate this next step. As theyve settled into their new home, Jeanie has found her way onto the party planning committee and has continued to find great joy in bringing people together.Assisted Living Activities for Every Hobby at Grace PointeAt Grace Pointe, we make it a priority to provide our residents with assisted living activities tailored to their interests. From games and exercise to get-togethers and getting outdoors, theres an assisted living activity available for every hobby.Schedule a tour to uncover all the ways you or your loved one can continue to live the life youve grown to love.

Dementia is a condition that affects the brain and causes problems with memory, thinking, and behavior. It can make it hard for seniors to communicate with their loved ones and caregivers. However, there are some strategies that families can use to learn how to talk with someone with dementia to improve communication with your loved ones and reduce frustration and stress.Here are some tips for communicating with seniors who have dementia:Use simple and clear language. Avoid using complex words, jargon, or slang. Speak slowly and clearly, and repeat yourself if needed. Use short sentences and questions that can be answered with yes or no.Be patient and respectful. Dont interrupt, argue, or correct the senior. Try to understand their perspective and feelings. Dont take their words or actions personally. Show empathy and compassion.Use nonverbal cues. Make eye contact, smile, and nod. Use gestures, pictures, or objects to help convey your message. Touch the senior gently to show affection and reassurance.Focus on the positive. Praise the seniors in your life for their abilities and achievements. Avoid criticizing or scolding them. Redirect their attention to something pleasant or enjoyable if they become agitated or upset.Engage in meaningful activities. Find out what the senior likes to do and do it with them. For example, you can listen to music, read a book, play a game, or do a craft. These activities can stimulate the brain and enhance the mood of the senior.How Grace Pointe of Greeley Can Support You and Your Family Member With DementiaIn the challenging journey of supporting seniors with dementia, effective communication is vital. Grace Pointe of Greeleys Memory Care services offers comprehensive support beyond communication tips, providing families with a holistic approach to navigating this difficult time. By embracing these strategies and considering the invaluable assistance of Grace Pointe, families can not only learn how to talk to someone with dementia, but also navigate dementia with greater understanding, compassion, and confidence.

When it comes to your loved ones, when to move from assisted living to memory care can be as difficult to discern as any other care decision youve made. When you first noticed your aging parents were requiring increased levels of care, you made the tough decision to entrust that care to an assisted living community. Now, however, youre wondering if their cognitive changes may require more specialized care.At Grace Pointe we are most concerned with the well-being of your loved ones, and understand how tricky it can be to know when to make the move to memory care. We want you to be equipped with the tools necessary to know when to move from assisted living to memory care. Lets start with a recap of who assisted living is best suited for.When Assisted Living is BestAssisted living is designed to provide as much autonomy as your loved ones are capable of, ranging from higher levels of supervision to only needing assistance with activities such as walking to meals. This form of care is a good fit for aging parents who require higher levels of assistance and promotes a balanced lifestyle as well as social interaction.This form of care allows your parents or loved ones the opportunity to age in place while still being themselves. There may come a time when basic assistance for leading a normal life is no longer what they need. When to Move to Memory CareWatching your loved ones begin to struggle with their memory can be unnerving. How can you help them through these changes? Memory care professionals are equipped to assist with this transition and have specialized training to help residents with dementia and Alzheimers. Memory care facilities operate with a higher staff-to-resident ratio, which provides your loved one with personalized care that aims to maintain routine and enhance their quality of life (APlaceForMom). This form of care can provide an increased level of comfort for patients who were previously living in an assisted living setting. The tailored approach of memory care helps residents to feel like they belong, and with the specialized environment, they can do more for themselves.Spotting the SignsSpotting signs that suggest a move to memory care can be tricky, and at times easily written off as normal. Its important, though difficult, to catch these signs early. By appreciating a need for memory care early, your loved one will benefit from the consistent structure of memory care and afford them a smoother transition. This article provides an extensive list of the early signs for memory care, but here are a few of the big most prominent ones.Displacement. This may look like wandering, getting lost, or elopement, which is when your loved one wanders away from a safe area, which are key factors in the decision to move to memory care.Neglect for routine. Withdrawing from social interactions, scheduled activities, and normal eating habits, as well as ceasing to perform daily self-care. Increased aggression. This can be caused by an increased sense of fear or confusion, or from an unmet need theyve grown unable to communicate.Remember Whos on the TeamOftentimes it can be difficult to pick up on these signs on your own. When it comes to our loved ones, we naturally think of them as they always have been; capable and independent individuals. Thats why its important to remember who is on your loved ones team. The assisted living professionals working closely with your loved ones will undoubtedly be the first to recognize an increasing need for memory care. Making Grace Pointe a Part of the TeamAt Grace Pointe, we offer specialized support for our memory care residents. From Alzheimers to other forms of dementia, our staff cares for the varying needs of an individuals diagnosis.As your loved ones needs become more complex over time, we provide activities that are designed to tap into their interests and skills. With Memory Care at Grace Pointe, weve designed a home for those you hold dear that encourages physical wellness and comfort, and enhances their quality of life.Make Grace Pointe a part of the team and trust that your loved one is getting the quality care they deserve. Learn more about our memory care service and schedule a tour with our team of experts.

The assisted living industry is one of the fastest-growing industries in the United States which makes the demand for RNs higher than ever before. What does an RN do in assisted living communities? Responsibilities can range from organizing nurses schedules to managing the total care of residents, depending on the needs of the assisted living facility.At Grace Pointe Senior Care Community of Greeley, Colorado, our RNs are an integral part of our care department. Lets explore what the RN does, the roles and responsibilities of the RN, and what its like to work at Grace Pointe as an RN.What Is An RN?RN stands for Registered Nurse and is a healthcare professional who has graduated or successfully passed a nursing program from a recognized nursing school. They have also completed a set number of required clinical hours and passed a national examination. Beyond education, they can work in many settings and treat patients for a variety of conditions one of them being a senior assisted living facility.RNs are a part of a residents medical team and work with doctors to ensure that senior residents receive quality care and that all of that care aligns with their personalized care plans. At Grace Pointe of Greeley Colorado, our RNs have the critical responsibility of implementing care according to each of our residents care plans to ensure their safety, maintenance, or improvement of health long-term.Responsibilities of an RN in Assisted LivingNow that we understand what an RN is, lets dive into the specific responsibilities an RN can take on within an assisted living facility and answer the question what does an RN do in assisted living? At Grace Pointe of Greeley, our Assisted Living experience is designed to give residents the opportunity to have as much autonomy as the residents are capable of. Residents and their families work with their care coordinators to come up with a personalized care plan that they are comfortable with and can be adjusted at any time.The responsibilities of an RN are to oversee and ensure that the care plan is implemented for all of our residents. They can wear many hats at an assisted living facility, but mainly their specific responsibilities can be:Designating nursing assignments and setting work schedulesManaging the total care of the residents, including developing and adjusting care plans, administering medication, preparing IVs, drawing blood, giving injections, and motoring vital signsMonitoring residents to ensure the effectiveness of their current care plansOversight of the residents health overall to ensure a high standard of careInteracting with residents families and loved ones and reporting any changes in their health or care planEnsuring continuity of care by getting to know each resident and their needsAs you can see the responsibilities of an RN at an assisted living facility are very integral to the care any loved one receives. They are the staff member that residents and their families interact with the most to provide high-quality care. But now, lets explore the skills and personality traits that RNs in an assisted living community should have to be successful. Skills Required to be an RN in an Assisted Living FacilityTo be successful as an RN in the healthcare industry, RNs need to possess some skills to effectively perform their role. These can include critical thinking, organization, and effective communication skills. However, in an assisted living facility, the skills need to align with the nature and demand of providing round the clock care and supervision to residents in a long-term environment.Soft skills, such as critical thinking, organization, and being an emotionally intelligent communicator, are very important in a long-term care environment like an assisted living facility. The RNs at Grace Pointe Senior Care Community of Greeley, Colorado are required to practice constant patience and compassion, as well as be able to constantly pivot to a new approach of care when current strategies arent quite working.Benefits of Becoming an RN At Grace Pointe Senior Care Community of Greeley, ColoradoIf youve made it this far, its time to discuss why be an RN at Grace Pointe Senior Care Community. At Grace Pointe, our mission is to Serve Others. Since 2009, weve been cultivating meaningful relationships between our team members, residents, and their families. As a local and family-owned business in Greeley, Colorado, when you join our family team, youre joining a group of skilled, compassionate professionals who care about making a positive impact.If you have any questions or would like to schedule a tour, please contact Grace Pointe at 970-304-1919.

So, youre looking into senior care for yourself or your loved one but have some questions about what the difference is between a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) and a nursing home community. This blog will go into the differences along with more commonly asked questions to help you make an informed decision about senior care. When it comes to senior care, some might envision a hospital-like environment, and many will immediately think of the term nursing home. Even though modern-day senior living options such as continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) have come a long way from the traditional nursing homes of the past, there is often still a misconception between the two. When searching for a senior care community, people want more than just a hospital-like environment. They want a place where they can have an active lifestyle and be in a community that uplifts and supports each other, and thats where CCRCs come in.Lets first start by differentiating nursing home communities and CCRCs, getting down to which is the best fit for you. So, what exactly qualifies as a nursing home community?What is a Nursing Home Community?By definition, a nursing home community is a place for people who dont need to be in a hospital but cant be cared for at home. The primary function of a nursing home is to provide the basic medical care services that the residents require, not taking into account the quality of living. While nursing homes certainly do an excellent job of caring for seniors who need medical services, they primarily focus on providing generalized care in a comfortable setting.What is a Continuing Care Community?In contrast, a continuing care retirement community or CCRC is a senior living community that combines an active lifestyle, hospitality, and access to different levels of healthcare in one convenient location. A CCRC focuses on the relationship between the caretakers and the residents, listening and learning from each other to create a more hospitable place to live.Unlike a nursing home community, CCRCs offer a continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, long-term care that includes skilled nursing, and rehabilitation services so residents can age in place and receive the right level of care at any given time. Residents also gain access to a broader range of on-site medical professionals  from registered nurses to occupational therapists to nutritionists specially trained to provide personalized geriatric care.What it all boils down to is that continuing care retirement communities focus on going beyond medical care and forming meaningful relationships with each individual resident.Todays CCRCs offer far more than the typical nursing home, with many amenities and services designed to help residents lead fulfilling lifestyles. With spacious living accommodations in a neighborhood-style atmosphere, enriching social programming, restaurant-style dining, engaging activities, and more residents can enjoy an active and comfortable lifestyle. Choosing a CCRC means more time, freedom, and opportunities.Now that you understand the difference between nursing homes and continuing care communities, its time to think about what other kinds of questions youll want to ask while looking for the best senior living option. It only makes sense that you would want the best for your loved one, and knowing what questions to ask is a great place to start. Below is a list of questions to consider during your search for the right continuing care retirement community for you and your family.How Much Does Continuing Care Cost and Will Insurance Cover Any of It?The cost of CCRCs varies, dependent on location, availability, and popularity. Looking at the cost of continuing care in your area is a good starting point. The average monthly cost for assisted living in the state of Colorado is $4,750 according to the 2021 Genworth Cost of Care Survey.  Here are some of the expenses associated with CCRCs youll want to consider: Entrance Fee  This is a one-time fee that varies with each CCRCMonthly Fees  These fees will vary depending on the services and amenities offeredLong-Term Care Costs  The cost of long-term care can vary and will be paid monthlyAssisted Living Facility Costs  These costs will vary depending on the type of housing you choose Its important to remember that these costs can add up quickly and should be taken into consideration when making your decision about continuing care. However, depending on your loved ones medical insurance coverage, some of the costs may be taken care of. Lets take a look at different types of insurance that can help cover some of the cost of your CCRC.  MedicareMedicare typically does not cover the costs of Continuing Care Retirement Communities, as they are considered to be long-term care facilities. Medicare is primarily intended to cover medical costs, such as hospitalization, doctors visits, and prescription medications. However, some CCRCs offer services or programs that may be covered by Medicare. For example, if a resident of a CCRC requires skilled nursing care, Medicare may cover the costs of this care for a limited time. Its important to research the specific CCRC you are considering and speak with their admissions team to determine which services may be covered by Medicare, if any. Its also important to note that Medicare Advantage plans (also known as Medicare Part C) may offer additional benefits that can be used to cover the costs of care in CCRCs. However, the specific benefits offered will depend on the individual plan and may vary widely. MedicaidGenerally, Medicaid does not cover the costs of Continuing Care Retirement Communities. This is because CCRCs are considered to be private pay facilities, and residents are expected to use their own assets to cover the costs of care. However, some CCRCs may offer programs or services that are Medicaid-certified. For example, if a CCRC has a skilled nursing facility as part of its campus, residents may be able to use Medicaid to cover the costs of care in that particular area. Veterans BenefitsThere are several veterans benefits that may apply to the cost of care at Continuing Care Retirement Communities. Some of these benefits include the following: Aid and Attendance This is a tax-free benefit for veterans who require the help of another person to perform daily activities, such as bathing or dressing. The benefit can be used to cover the costs of care in a CCRC or another facility.Housebound Benefits This tax-free benefit is available to veterans who are unable to leave their homes without assistance. The benefit can be used to cover the costs of care in a CCRC or another facility.Veterans Directed Home and Community-Based Services This program allows veterans to manage their own care and use their benefits to pay for care services in a CCRC or another facility.VA Pension This is a needs-based benefit for wartime veterans who have limited income and assets. The benefit can be used to cover the costs of care in a CCRC or another facility. Please note eligibility requirements for these benefits can vary and that there may be a waiting period for some benefits. Additionally, not all veterans are eligible for every benefit. To learn more about the cost of continuing care retirement communities and answer any more questions you may have, visit our blog, How to Afford the Cost of Assisted Living. Now that you know the general cost of continuing care, lets talk about how long your loved one can stay in continuing care. How Long Can My Loved One Stay At a Continuing Care Retirement Community?Most people that come to live at a CCRC do so for as long as they need, with the exception of those staying in our Rehab Center for short-term recovery. Living at a continuing care retirement community means that we can evaluate you or your loved ones needs and add services dependent on their current needs, whereas nursing homes look at only the medical care provided to the residents.  At Grace Pointe, the progression of our continuing care changes based on your loved ones level of care. We offer Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Long Term Care. Each provides different levels of care and independence provided to the residents while ensuring they have a wide array of stimulating activities to choose from.  What Should I Pack When I Move to a Continuing Care Retirement Community? Can I Bring My Own Furniture?The benefit of choosing a continuing care retirement community over a nursing home is that you can personalize your room to make it your own. This includes sentimental items such as special furniture. If you find that you need more space but we do not currently have the room size you want, you can move to a bigger room when it becomes available. Our current residents have priority when it comes to room choices. Although its encouraged to bring items that are important to you, you dont have to bring the entire house. We have created a custom moving checklist to make packing easy for you, so you can focus on getting settled.Grace Pointe Continuum of CareWhile nursing homes provide basic medical care, CCRCs offer a combination of an active lifestyle, access to different levels of healthcare, and personalized senior care, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, long-term care that includes skilled nursing, and rehabilitation services. CCRCs are designed to provide a hospitable place to live where caretakers listen and learn from each resident, providing enriching social programming, restaurant-style dining, engaging activities, and other amenities. Understanding what differentiates a continuing care retirement community from a nursing home community will help you compare senior living options and find the best fit for you or your loved one. Ready to start learning more about the community and care services at Grace Pointe? Contact us today, and we can answer any questions or concerns you may have or schedule a virtual tour!

A Guide of What and What Not to PackWhen moving yourself or your loved ones into an assisted living facility, it is important to make the new space comfortable to make the transition to this new phase of life as easy as possible. Moving can be an overwhelming experience for most, especially for seniors who are downsizing and may have to make some hard choices about which items they get to bring with them to their new home. This move to assisted living checklist should help make the transition smoother. Before Moving DayMost Assisted Living Facilities offer apartments that are unfurnished. However it is important to check what furniture, if any, will be in the space when you arrive.Find your new floor plan and consider how much space you have. This will help you to narrow down how much as well as what furniture will be appropriate to bring with you.Ask yourself questions about the lifestyle you or your loved one will be living in this space. These questions will help determine what other items they need to bring or how they may need to be arranged in the space. Some of these questions may include:Do you or your loved one entertain?Do you or your loved one cook for themselves?Do you or your loved one have any hobbies?Are you or your loved one able to clean for yourself or themself?Are you or your loved one able to bend down or reach up to reach items?Before moving day it is also important to remind yourself or your loved one that they can always bring more later! With this in mind, it is always better to start with less and buy things or have them brought over from a loved ones home as they are needed. Bringing too much to a new space can make it cluttered; this can make downsizing feel more drastic or make potential mobility issues worse.Making A ListWhen making a list it is important to keep it organized. A good exercise for making this list is writing down what you need as you use things. As you or your loved one goes through a standard week in their lives, write down everything that you/they use. You may realize that you need to pack some things that you had not previously considered.ClothingIt may be tempting to pack you or your loved ones entire wardrobe up. However, it is likely that you/they may have limited closet space and it may be a burden to have all of those clothes there.Consider the climate they will be in, the lifestyle they live, and the recreational activities that they partake in. If you or your loved one has mobility issues, it may also be helpful to consider the level of ease you/they have in getting dressed in each garment. All of these factors will help you to create a wardrobe that will fit the space and needs of you or your loved ones new environment.Personal ItemsWhen packing toiletries for a move, we often want to have every lotion, hair product, medication, and backups for everything that we think we will need on hand. However, it is important to remember that we can always get something later. It probably isnt necessary to bring everything under the bathroom sink, and packing is a great opportunity to go through our toiletries and simplify what we want to bring.Additionally, it is important to note that many Assisted Living Facilities provide residents with many services and amenities. Make sure to get a list of what will be provided before packing any additional items to avoid redundancies.ToiletriesList of prescription medications and any over-the-counter medicationsAssistive devices glasses, canes, walkers, hearing aid, etc.Important legal and financial documents (only needed for day of admit)FurnishingsConsider the space you or your loved one are moving into and what makes the most sense for that space. It may be tempting to try and bring many familiar pieces of furniture into the new space to bring us comfort, however, limiting this to a favorite chair or familiar pieces of art may be a better way to bring the comforts of home to a new space.Appliances may be provided or may need to be purchased. Consider how much cooking you or your loved one will be doing before bringing more than the basics. At GracePointe, the cooking is taken care of for our residents so you wont need to bring those kitchen appliances.One of the hardest parts of downsizing can be parting with favorite knick-knacks and decorations. However, to keep cleaning simple and space uncluttered, it is best to limit how many of these types of things we bring. Opting for art and photographs that hang on the wall is a way to make a space feel more comfortable without taking up too much room.TowelsLinensBeddingFurnitureAppliancesDecorPhotos and keepsakesFan/heater/humidifierClothes hangersBaskets and bins for organizationPlantsMirrorHamperSmall tool kitClockKitchen suppliesEntertainmentThis category will differ drastically depending on your or your loved ones hobbies and interests. Consider what you/they like to do and what you/they need in your/their space in order to engage with those activities independently. Do you/they need sporting equipment, an e-reader, knitting supplies, baking supplies, etc?BooksTV/radioPhoneComputerTablet/e-readerElectronics chargersPuzzlesPlaying cardsHobby suppliesHousehold ItemsCheck with you or your loved ones facility regarding their meal plan and what, if any, products or services are provided in terms of cleaning and laundry. After you have this information, you can stock your or your loved ones home with any food items or cleaning products that they need.Broom and dustpanSurface wipesMultipurpose cleaning sprayStain removerDetergentDish soapSnacks/groceriesPaper productsWhat Not To PackCutting items from the list can be hard, but ditching these will be sure to make the transition to a new space much easier.Clothes/shoes/furniture in need of repairOversized furnitureDecorative items that sit on the floorMore than just a few decorative items that sit on a table or shelfHoliday decorations during off seasonDuplicate itemsA lot of kitchenware bring a few mugs not an entire collectionGlass top tablesArea rugsSeldom worn clothing, shoes, or jewelryBoxes or stored itemsOutdoor furniture unless your new space has an outdoor spaceMore than a few fancy outfitsWhen moving you or your loved one into Assisted Living Facilities, it is important to create an environment that you or your loved one will feel comfortable living in. This looks different for everyone and could be about placing a familiar quilt on the bed, putting a favorite photo on the nightstand, or having your favorite chair from home. Remember that the staff is also there to help you or your loved one settle in and getting to know people in your new community can be just as fruitful for making a new place feel like home.

The therapy program of a senior care community is a vital component and drives successful patient outcomes. It is so vital that we must understand the benefits and pitfalls between having in-house versus contract therapy. Knowledgeable providers understand this difference and examine a multitude of factors across their nursing and rehabilitation centers when considering which model is ideal for their operation to ensure short- and long-term success.As mentioned, there are two rehab models, in-house and contracted. They both have their place in a senior care community depending on size, location, and other unique attributes. Here are 5 reasons in-house therapy can benefit residents and a skilled nursing center.One Unified Team: With in-house therapy services, everyone is part of your senior care community team. A collaboration of the interdisciplinary team occurs by all departments reporting and being responsible to the community. This is helpful to keep the team on the same page. While both the in-house and contract models have proven effective, the collaboration, communication, and support of each other are what make a program successful.Save Time + Reduced Workload: It is now necessary to maintain expert knowledge and quickly adapt to the frequently changing Medicare program. A keen understanding of Medicare rules and regulations while still maintaining the ability to treat geriatric and medically complex patients is not easily balanced by a therapy team. Having in-house therapy keeps the entire interdisciplinary team knowledgeable of the same information related to the Medicare rules and regulations.Patients First: Having an in-house therapy program not only helps a senior rehab center to be more compliant and profitable but also puts patients first. How so? The nursing and rehabilitation departments working in tandem on the same team to deliver quality patient care without cross functions. Having in-house therapy services can align the goals of the therapy department to match those of other departments in a senior community.Personal Touch: Many high-quality therapists are attracted to the stability of in-house therapy positions, making it easier for a community to staff and retain top talent. With therapists as permanent members of a team, the therapists commitment as an employee is to the patients home and not a business. In addition, typically the in-house therapy team is given more independence on how therapy is delivered. Many skilled nursing centers with in-house therapy programs can develop and expand specialty programs beyond the standard orthopedics to other conditions such as cardiac rehab, amputee rehab, and Parkinsons care building on the expertise of the team they have built.To recover from illness, surgery and hospitalization patients want effective high-quality rehabilitation whether it is provided by a contracted or in-house team.  

There are thousands of providers of Medicare in Colorado, so navigating the programs benefits and requirements can be difficult. At Grace Point Senior Care Community, we want you to have all the information you and your loved ones need. Below are answers to the frequently asked questions regarding Medicare in Colorado. If youd like more information about Medicare please contact us for more information. Contact Us.Whos eligible for Medicare?People 65 or olderCertain people under 65 with disabilitiesPeople of any age with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD)How does someone enroll in Medicare?Most people who are over the age of 65 and receiving Social Security benefits, will be automatically enrolled in Medicare.If they arent automatically enrolled, they can:Sign-up at a local Social Security OfficeCall 1-800-MEDICARE and speak with a Medicare RepresentativeWhat does Medicare Cover?Below are some examples of what Medicare covers:Basic hearing careBasic vision careDental careHome health careHospice careHospital inpatient careHospital outpatient carePreventative care and servicesWhat assisted living expenses are covered by Medicare?Medicare does not cover long-term care. The closest thing Medicare pays for is short-term skilled care for up to 100 successive days of care if it is determined necessary by the doctor.More Information about Medicarehttps://www.medicare.gov/https://www.medicare.gov/Pubs/pdf/11306-Medicare-Medicaid.pdfhttps://cms.caring.com/medicare/medicare-advantage-vs-medicare-supplement-plans/

Navigating the costs of assisted living can be tricky. An assisted living community provides your loved one with a socially engaging and supportive environment in which they can thrive. Preparing for this transition, while exciting, can at times be a bit stressful. Formulating a plan for affording the expenses of assisted living shouldnt feel like an added weight.At Grace Pointe we want you and your loved one to have the necessary resources to make the process of moving to an assisted living community a smooth one. Here are some of the most common methods for covering the costs of assisted living, coupled with a few helpful resources.Affording the Costs of Assisted LivingThe average monthly cost for assisted living in the state of Colorado is $4,750 according, to the 2021 Genworth Cost of Care Survey. Though that cost may feel daunting, there are many options that make this valuable care more affordable. What does that look like? Lets take a look.Savings and Family SupportIn many cases, your loved one will use the monies theyve set up for retirement to pay for assisted living. This can be from a retirement savings account, a personal savings account, or pension payments. In other cases, family members help cover a portion of the costs to help ensure your loved ones savings cover the duration of their stay in an assisted living community.Insurance PlansDepending on your loved ones insurance, some assisted living costs may qualify for coverage. As our elderly parents often utilize their insurance programs to cover their various medical needs, its helpful to know how those programs can help with supportive care programs like assisted living.Medicare cannot be used to pay for assisted living as Medicare can only be attributed to short-term, non-custodial care. However, since Medicares coverage gears toward health care, your loved one may be able to claim some of the health care they receive in their assisted living community.Private health insurance will sometimes cover some of the costs associated with health care and some skilled nursing but often wont cover the care of assisted living. Contact your loved ones insurance company for more detail on coverage.Long-term care insurance plans often include support for assisted living costs. Though it may not cover the total cost, it can help cover a portion of the costs making it more affordable for your loved one. Take a look at this article for a better look at the benefits of this type of insurance.Medicaid, though not technically an insurance program, can help cover the costs of assisted living. A joint federal and state program, its designed to help people of lower economic status pay for a variety of healthcare services, including assisted living. Here is a helpful article to better understand the benefits of Medicaid.Liquidating AssetsThere are a few ways your loved one can use their assets, such as home equity and life insurance policies, to help pay for assisted living costs. Some options include:Selling or surrendering a life insurance policy. This can be a portion of the policy sold to a third party, or the whole policy surrendered to the insurance company in exchange for a lump sum.A reverse mortgage. This option allows your loved one to receive funds from the mortgage lender while adult children or another family member move into their home and take on the mortgage payment.Selling or renting their home. In some cases, it may make the most sense to sell or rent your loved ones home since they will no longer be living in it. This option is a great route for acquiring the funds necessary for covering assisted living expenses.These options can be a lot to manage. We recommend consulting an Elder Care Lawyer, a financial advisor, or other experts to help navigate the best and most appropriate options for you or your loved one.Look for Options to SaveAs you put together a strategy for covering the costs of assisted living, keep in mind that there are often options to save some money with specials and discounts. Here are a few you can ask about when choosing an assisted living community:Ask about specials. Depending on the time of year, move-in rates may be lower, and there may be vacancies your assisted living community is hoping to fill. They may offer discounts to fill those empty rooms.Ask about paying for just what you need. Some assisted living communities offer an a la carte option that allows you to pay for just the services your loved one needs. Alternatively, you can pay for an all-inclusive package that bundles the services together.Ask about roommates. This is a fairly standard option in Assisted Living Communities. In some cases, shared living spaces are cheaper than a space for just one person. If this is something that would work for your loved one, ask if this is an option.Grace Pointe Can HelpAt Grace Pointe, we want your loved ones to have the care that is right for them, and we understand how tricky it can be to navigate this transition. We offer 100% customizable care packages that save your loved ones from paying for services they dont require. Request a free care consultation, and lets make a plan to get your loved one the care services they need.

Volunteering has long helped to rebuild communities and solve serious social problems. Often it is money or other items that are needed and at other times it is simply our time that is requested. Did you know that giving of your time and talents can also improve your physical and mental health? Its a fact! Why does volunteering improve the wellbeing of the volunteer? It is primarily because it helps grow your social network. People with strong social supports have lower premature death rates, less heart disease, and fewer health risk factors. Medical and scientific documentation also supports that volunteering can improve your self-esteem, enhance immune systems, buffer the impact of stress and combat isolation. This is especially true for older adults. As we journey through life, our experiences and knowledge make us highly skilled for volunteering in a myriad of circumstances. Volunteering puts people into highly social situations, increasing the opportunity for close personal relationships. It is a chance to participate in fulfilling activities that can make a difference in the lives of others. Older adults who volunteer feel a sense of community inclusion. This inclusion helps guard against stress and illness. Studies report that older adult volunteers live longer than non-volunteers.Volunteering is a Win-Win for everyone! When caring through volunteering you tap into your healing powers for all who share the same road. Many times, what is most needed is for someone to listen and understand. We can all do this - - and will reap unexpected health benefits. The place to look for ready opportunities is the senior care community in your neighborhood. You can bring a talent or simply an interest in being with a wise elder. In a residential care community some volunteer opportunities might be; serving coffee in the dining room for breakfast before you go to work; bringing in your slides or video of a recent trip to share; starting a book club where you read a few chapters aloud in a group each week; bringing your grandchild's kindergarten class to visit and create an art project with the residents; sharing a bouquet from your garden; showing and sharing your treasures such as a collection of old Cappers Weekly newspapers or some vintage clothing from your mothers mother and on and on. . . . . This is a place where you are sure to touch lives, simply by being there! Get Fit!! Volunteer! Your heart and your new friends in the neighborhood . . . . . will thank you for it.a Submitted by Grace Pointe Continuing Care Senior Campus: 970-304-1919