Stroke Awareness Month: Signs and Treatments for Seniors

 

The sooner a person having a stroke gets care, the better their outcome is likely to be. For those who may not know, a stroke occurs when the flow of blood to the brain is interrupted, preventing the brain from getting oxygen and nutrients. Brain cells begin to die very quickly when this occurs, with damage occurring within three minutes, which is why rapid treatment is so important.

For this reason, it’s helpful to know the signs of a stroke and treatment options, so you can act quickly and effectively. Our short-term rehab team in Cape May County, NJ, has put together a guide to strokes that involves critical information regarding symptoms and treatments.

There are three main types of stroke:

1. Ischemic stroke – This is the most common type of stroke. It’s often caused by a blood clot travelling through the arteries and veins that becomes stuck and forms a blockage.
2. Hemorrhagic stroke – This occurs when an artery in the brain starts to leak blood onto the brain, causing an increase of pressure in the skull that damages brain cells.
3. Transient ischemic attack or stroke – A transient ischemic attack (TIA), often called a mini-stroke, is a minor blockage that causes reduced blood supply to the brain for a short time. Although the effects are more minor, it’s an important warning sign that the person is at risk for future strokes. Immediate medical treatment is necessary.

A stroke can happen at any age, but seniors are especially vulnerable, especially if they suffer from high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes or obesity. You are also at risk if you smoke, drink heavily or live a sedentary lifestyle.

Stroke symptoms

If you recognize any of the following six symptoms of stroke in yourself or someone else, call 911 immediately:

1. Sudden weakness in one side of the face and body
2. Sudden confusion
3. Difficulty speaking or understanding
4. Sudden, severe headache
5. Sudden lack of coordination, loss of balance and dizziness
6. Possible vomiting, drowsiness, nausea, loss of vision

How are strokes treated?

This depends on the type of stroke and the severity of the stroke.

• tPA – In some cases, if a stroke is detected within the first 3 to 4.5 hours of occurrence, a tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) can be given to dissolve a blood clot and minimize the damage caused by the stroke. In some cases, this emergency drug can reverse the effect of the stroke and promote a quicker recovery.
• Blood thinners – Antiplatelet and anticoagulant drugs may be given to prevent dangerous blood clots from forming and to prevent existing blood clots from worsening.
• Blood pressure medication – Medications like statins may be prescribed to lower blood pressure to help lower the risk of future strokes.
• Stents – Surgeons can place stents in weak arteries. These small structures are a lot like scaffolding that will hold the arteries open.
• Surgical removal – If other treatments do not work or are not recommended, a surgeon may physically remove the blood clot from the affected arteries. This is usually performed using a catheter. If the person has a hemorrhagic stroke, the surgeon may have to physically clip the aneurysm to stop the bleeding and open the skull to relieve the pressure on the brain.

Stroke recovery and short-term rehabilitation at United Methodist Communities

The brain is a powerful and amazing organ and rehabilitative therapy is a useful tool for helping seniors regain physical and mental skills that have been affected by the stroke. At The Shores, an assisted living community in Cape May County, we offer short-term rehab that brings occupational, speech, respiratory and physical therapy specialists together to provide comprehensive care for residents with complex medical conditions. To find out more about short-term rehabilitation in Ocean City, NJ, contact United Methodist Communities at The Shores today or visit our website at: https://theshores.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://theshores.umcommunities.org/the-shores/stroke-awareness-month-signs-and-treatments-for-seniors/

What are The Levels of Care in Assisted Living?

 

Assisted living communities offer many different levels of care and these communities can be as diverse as the residents who live there. If you’ve ever visited an assisted living community then you’ve probably seen that residents may be grouped based on the level of care they need. This allows associates on-site to be able to provide necessary medical care and other types of assistance more immediately. 

One major benefit of providing different levels of care in an assisted living community is that residents may be able to stay longer in an assisted living community before a move into skilled nursing due to chronic pain or complex medical conditions. Instead, offering levels of care allows residents to live happily in their assisted living apartment for as long as possible, making it much less disruptive for them.

To better understand levels of care, the team at United Methodist Communities outlined the different levels of care available at each of our full service assisted living locations across New Jersey. 

Levels of care in assisted living are typically structured as follows:

Lower level of care. Many older adults are independent, enjoy a range of hobbies and continue to lead full lives. Yet sometimes, they require a little bit of help with daily tasks or managing different medications. Residents who require lower levels of care typically go about their days as usual, while nurses and other associates are on site to help with anything they might need. Communities with lower levels of care don’t feel very clinical, instead they often feel like a vibrant apartment complex with people coming and going. 

Higher level of care. Residents needing more care are still able to live in an apartment, but need help with an increased number of Activities of Daily living such as bathing, dressing, eating, or medication management. Residents also benefit from increased security and 24 hour alert pendants to help prevent falls and other accidents. 

Tapestries® Memory Care. People with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia often live in specialized memory care neighborhoods. These neighborhoods are specially built for maximum safety and comfort for people with memory loss. They are designed to allow residents to feel at home, while receiving the advanced care they need. Tapestries Memory Care neighborhoods at UMC have enhanced security, cognitive therapy programs, and flexible meal and sleep schedules that are dictated by each memory care resident. While our associates on-site receive ongoing specialized training in Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. Tapestries Memory Care also offers education and emotional support for family members who have loved ones with dementia. 

Assisted living for all levels of care 

Many assisted living communities offer multiple  levels of care in one single location because their residents can transition to different levels more easily if necessary. Rather than having an older adult to pack all of their belongings and move to an entirely new location – a full service assisted living community has everything they need without disrupting their lives. It’s also much easier on the family because they have the peace of mind that comes from knowing their loved one is properly cared for no matter how their needs may evolve and change. 

At UMC at Pitman, our residents enjoy complete integration with the local town and continue to live independently. They also have access to onsite medical care, assistance with daily tasks, delicious meals, social activities and much more. UMC offers various levels of care, so if necessary, your loved one can transition easily to a higher level of care that best suits their needs. 

For more information about Pitman, our assisted living community in Gloucester County, please contact us today or visit our website at: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/assisted-living-gloucester-county-nj/

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/what-are-the-levels-of-care-in-assisted-living/

5 Fun Outdoor Workouts for Seniors

 

The air is getting warmer and the sun is shining! Which means it’s time for everyone, especially seniors, to get outside, get a good workout in and have some fun in the process. You may be wondering, why should seniors especially get outside to workout? Well, for one, seniors who stay active preserve their mobility for longer, have less dementia-related sleep problems and are just happier in general! Seniors who choose to exercise outside gain another benefit: healthy and direct exposure to Vitamin D. So, what’s the hold up? It’s time to engage in a fun, outdoor workout. Not sure where to start? Our assisted living team in Gloucester County has put together a list of their favorite exercise programs for seniors.

Safety note: Please apply sunscreen generously when spending extended periods of time outdoors. Also, please consult with your primary care physician or professional fitness trainer before performing any new strenuous exercises that might do more harm than good.

#1 – Walk outdoors. Perhaps the easiest option on this list is to take a daily walk outside. Did you know that a short 30-minute walk can burn up to 300 calories? That’s reason enough to set time aside everyday for a walk. Not to mention, it’s a great opportunity to have a friend tag along to catch up. If no one is around, grab a pair of headphones and listen to your favorite playlist on repeat. Or if you really want to switch it up, choose a new location to take your walk each day like a local park or a lively cul-de sac nearby.

#2 – Play a game outside with the grandkids. Nothing says “fun” like spending quality time with grandkids – and of course, games! Playing a quick game of catch will work out muscles you’ve forgotten about and stimulate hand-eye coordination. Now that’s a game nobody could lose.

#3 – Outdoor chair yoga. Bring a light, but stable chair outside and say “namaste” to a new, fun way to do yoga. If you or a loved one reside in an assisted living community, make sure to inquire about moving fitness classes like chair yoga outside when the weather is fine. Or if you’d rather do yoga alone, visit our blog to learn some new yoga poses to try out. 

#4 – Gardening outside. Carrying the hose and moving around the garden to water each plant is a workout in itself. An added bonus: choosing to grow fresh fruits and vegetables will help you to eat healthier too! If your thumb is not quite “green,” visit our blog that outlines beginner gardening tips for seniors.

#5 – Bring your workout weights outside. Working out inside in the same room or home gym could get a little stale after a while. So, here’s a better solution: take your weights outside to do some strength training. It’s amazing what a change of scenery could do to improve your enjoyment while getting fit!

Exercising safely at UMC in Pitman, NJ

At United Methodist Communities at Pitman, we offer every assisted living resident opportunities to exercise safely. With industry-leading COVID-19 protocols in effect, there’s no reason why we can’t hold fun fitness classes with our senior residents!

Some of our favorite fitness classes include dance, traditional yoga and chair yoga. We understand that everyone has different exercise goals and that they need to find what routine works best for them. That’s why we make an active effort to offer multiple programs and support each resident’s fitness level to the fullest at our assisted living community.

For more information about senior exercise classes in Pitman, New Jersey, please contact UMC at Pitman today or visit our website at: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2021/05/17/5-fun-outdoor-workouts-for-seniors/

Skin Cancer Awareness Month: Signs & Treatments

 

Spring is here and although we all like to have fun in the sun, it’s important to take the proper precautions to prevent skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the USA, with more people being treated for skin cancer than all the other types of cancer combined!

It most often develops on skin that has been exposed to the sun, although it can occur on other parts of the skin. Although it can be quite minor, it’s important not to dismiss how serious skin cancer can be. That’s why our care team in Sussex County has put together a useful guide for Skin Cancer Awareness Month to help raise awareness about preventing and treating skin cancer in seniors.

Symptoms of skin cancer

Like many cancers, early detection is critical to treating skin cancer, so it’s very important to be aware of all the signs and symptoms.

Skin cancer can appear to be:

• Waxy-looking or pearly-looking bumps
• Flat, brown lesions that look like scars
• Sores that keep bleeding, scabbing and returning
• Firm red nodules
• Flat lesions that have a crusty surface
• Lesions that itch, burn and feel painful
• Lesions with an irregular border, with red, pink, white or blue portions
• Moles that change size, color, texture or bleed

You are at an increased risk of skin cancer if you spend a lot of time in the sun (especially without sun protection), have had sunburns in the past, have fair skin, if you have moles, or if you have a family history of skin cancer.

Treatments for skin cancer

Skin cancer starts on the surface layer of the skin – the epidermis. This is the thin, protective layer of your skin that gets burned if you’re out in the sun too long. It’s made up of three types of cells — the squamous cells, basal cells and melanocytes — and treatment depends on which cells are affected and how far the cancer has progressed. In many early cases, the cancer can be cut out, burned off or otherwise removed. In later stages, patients may need radiation, chemotherapy and surgery, especially if it has moved into the lymph nodes or other organs.

Skin cancer prevention tips for seniors

Of course, prevention is always better than a cure. Fortunately, many cases of skin cancer are preventable! Here are some effective ways to prevent skin cancer:

• Sunscreen – Use a high SPF (sun protection factor) sunscreen every day, all year round. When applying sunscreen, make sure to focus on your face, neck, hands, arms and legs since you can even burn in cloudy weather!
• Sun protection – To increase your sun protection, always wear a wide-brimmed hat outdoors. It’s also a good idea to wear a light covering over your arms and legs.
• Shade – Don’t go outside during the periods of the day when UV (ultra violet) rays are the strongest. Between 11am and 3pm, stay indoors or in the shade.
• Medications – Some medications, including antibiotics, can make you more sensitive to the sun. Research side-effects carefully and take extra precautions when taking new medications.
• Self-screen – The most important thing to remember is that if you have a sore or mole on your skin that looks irregular, or is painful or bleeding – it’s best to have a doctor check it out as soon as possible.

Short-term rehab and recovery at our CCRC in Newton, NJ

Is your loved one recovering from skin cancer treatment? Bristol Glen is part of the United Methodist Communities network of independent senior living communities offering safe, professional short-term rehab services in New Jersey.

We’re proud to say that we’ve recently earned a place on the U.S. News Best Nursing Homes and Short-Stay Rehabilitation Lists, reflecting our dedication to exceptional COVID-19 protocols, the quality of our nursing and therapy associates onsite, our fall prevention initiatives, our discharge rates and much more.

If you are looking for post-operative or post-hospitalization care for your loved one, then please contact United Methodist Communities at Bristol Glen today or visit our website at https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/bristol-glen/skin-cancer-awareness-month-signs-treatments/

Vision & Hearing Loss or Dementia?

 

The symptoms of vision and hearing loss can be similar to some of the early signs of dementia. For instance, your senior loved one may often struggle to follow a conversation or be confused about what’s happening around them. This can make diagnosing dementia in someone with vision or hearing loss more difficult. Not to mention, living with a combination of these conditions can present its own challenges. However, there are many techniques to help people live abundantly with dementia, vision and/or hearing loss. In this article, our memory care team in Collingswood, NJ will discuss the differences between dementia and vision/hearing loss and how to cope with all three.

Symptoms of vision & hearing loss

Having trouble with any of the following may suggest a person is having problems with their vision rather than dementia.

• Recognizing people around them
• Low lights, bright lights or both
• Finding things like food on their plate or keys in their purse
• Avoiding tripping hazards
• Reading text near or far away
• Seeing, even with glasses on

If your loved one shows any or all of the following symptoms, it may suggest they have problems with their hearing rather than dementia.

• Trouble understanding words, especially against background noise or in a crowd
• Muffled speech and difficulty hearing consonants
• Often asking others to talk more slowly, clearly and loudly
• Frequently having to turn up the volume on devices like phones, TVs, laptops, etc.
• Withdrawal from conversations and avoiding social interactions

Please note: Hearing loss symptoms can be trickier to separate from dementia symptoms. This is because a major symptom of both is not being able to follow a conversation. Not to mention, oftentimes dementia and hearing loss go hand in hand. That’s why regular audiology (or hearing) tests are critical in diagnosing both conditions.

Early symptoms of dementia

There are many symptoms to consider when diagnosing dementia. However, the symptoms listed below are the early symptoms that are often similar to vision or hearing loss.

• Difficulty recalling memories, especially short term
• Having trouble concentrating or following a conversation
• Difficulty completing everyday tasks, such as reading signs or confusing product prices
• Generally being confused about time, place and setting
• Withdrawing socially

Ways to cope with vision & hearing loss

Coping with vision loss. First, your loved one should maintain good eye care by having regular vision tests and making sure lenses are clean and correct. You could also make adjustments to your senior parent’s living space, such as updating the lighting and keeping all areas free of clutter and fall hazards. Coping with this condition is all about focusing on what your loved one can do and then brainstorm and enforce techniques to help them. For example, you can learn to communicate better with them by getting their attention first and then letting them know every so often what is happening nearby.

Coping with hearing loss. Similar to the first step to coping with vision loss, your loved one should maintain good ear care by having regular hearing checks. Your senior parent could also make the most out of the hearing they do have by using hearing aids. We recommend they see a professional audiologist first to determine what type of hearing aids will be the most effective for their condition. Establishing a new way of communicating with your loved one could also help. Some examples are lip reading, using visual clues, gestures or familiar expressions, and letting your loved one see your face when speaking.

Coping with dementia in Camden County, NJ

One of the best ways your loved one can cope with dementia and maintain an abundant life is through professional memory care. At Collingswood, Tapestries memory care residents have the opportunity to live in a nurturing, homelike environment where they can be safe, enjoy their hobbies and have meaningful experiences each and every day. We have medical professionals on site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide specialized care for memory care residents who may also have hearing and/or visual impairments.

If your loved one shows symptoms of the early stages of dementia, please call 856-369-3092 to find out how our memory care advisors can meet the needs of your senior parent. To learn more about Tapestries memory care in Camden County, please contact United Methodist Communities at Collingswood or visit our website at: https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/collingswood/vision-hearing-loss-or-dementia/

How Does Assisted Living Compare to Long-Term Care?

 

Are you considering assisted living or long-term care for an older loved one? You may be wondering what the differences are, and which option is the best for your circumstances. Both assisted living and long term care share a common goal: to ensure senior residents live as safely and as comfortably as possible. 

Many senior living communities provide both assisted living and long term care, and in this article we’ll discuss some of the key differences and similarities. The team at United Methodist Communities hopes you find this information helpful in choosing the best living arrangement for your loved one.

Key similarities between assisted living and long-term care

• Safety. Both living arrangements are designed to maximize the safety of all residents, including things like wide, flat staircases with very secure handrails and grab bars in every restroom. You also won’t find any tripping hazards like rugs that can get caught underfoot, or slippery surfaces. Safety also includes things like alarm systems and security guards for around-the-clock protection. Residents may also keep 24 hour alert pendants on their person in case of emergency.
• Help with medication management. Those who are on several medications often need help remembering which medications to take when. Associates are onsite to help avoid any missed doses and prevent any mix-ups. 
• Support with daily life, including help with personal hygiene, light cleaning, daily exercise, and more. People in assisted living and long term care greatly benefit from having daily support.
• Proper nutrition. Seniors will enjoy delicious meals throughout the day to ensure they are properly nourishing their bodies. 

Key differences between assisted living and long-term care

• The level of support. People who live in assisted living communities may not have serious mobility or medical issues that affect their quality of life. However, they may still require a level of support (or assistance) here and there on a daily basis. Long-term care residences, also known as skilled nursing communities, are more commonly used by people who require 24/7 support and medical attention. 
• The extent of services offered. Long-term care communities offer more services because the residents generally require a more comprehensive level of care. Things like assistance using the bathroom, full-time health monitoring, and support with mobility are all common services you’ll find in long-term care. While assisted living offers help with daily tasks when needed and encourages residents to continue living a more independent lifestyle.  
• The set-up. If you’ve ever visited an assisted living community, you probably noticed how it feels exactly like an apartment complex, with residents coming and going as they please. On the other hand, in nursing communities, it will be more common to see medical equipment and associates present with residents at all times. 
• Independent lifestyles for seniors in Camden County, NJ 

The level of care and support your loved one needs will determine which option is best for them. Many senior living communities have both assisted living and long-term care neighborhoods on the same grounds. With each one striving to support and uplift residents, while keeping them safe and comfortable. 

At UMC at Collingswood, you’ll see independent living for seniors in full swing. Our full-service assisted living community helps residents remain independent for as long as possible, while offering the help they need with things like maintenance and handyman work, housekeeping services, medication reminders, personal hygiene assistance, and much more. 

For more information about Collingswood, our assisted living community in Camden County NJ, please contact our team today or visit our website at: https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/assisted-living-south-jersey/

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/how-does-assisted-living-compare-to-long-term-care/

5 Senior Yoga Stretches to Improve Balance

Yoga is an often-overlooked tool for helping seniors improve their balance. Performing some simple yoga exercises each day can not only improve balance and muscle mass, but can also build confidence, lower blood pressure, improve sleep and boost reflexes, helping seniors stay mobile and reduce falls. If you or a senior family member is a beginner to yoga, here are five simple exercises recommended by our assisted living community in Cape May County, NJ!

What is yoga?

Before we dive right in, let’s take a look at what yoga actually is, since there are some misconceptions about this practice.

Yoga is an ancient discipline that originated in India. The practice combines exercises with breathing techniques to work the body, as well as the mind. Thus promoting correct posture, flexibility, and coordination. Practices can be very rigorous and demanding or they can be gentle and relaxing, bringing your body into harmony with the surrounding environment. The wonderful thing about yoga is that it can be adapted to anyone’s needs, age or capability, making it ideal for everybody!

The last thing to remember is that yoga, like any exercise, takes a long time to master. With that said, it’s important not to overexert yourself or push yourself too hard, as that’s when injuries happen. Work with an instructor who can help you settle into the poses easily and make sure you are doing them correctly. As long as you are feeling the stretch in the right places and work consistently towards improving, you’re on your way to becoming a true yogi!

Yoga exercises for seniors or beginners

1. Mountain pose

This is a very simple pose (known as asana) that helps with balance by grounding the body through the feet.

• Stand tall on a yoga mat with your feet together (heels and toes touching).
• Engage your abdominal muscles, pulling your stomach in.
• Relax your shoulders so they lie flat on your back and away from your ears.
• Flex your leg muscles, feeling the stretch in your calves and thighs.
• Hold your arms straight down at your sides, turning the inside of your elbows towards the front of your body and keeping your palms facing your thighs.
• Breathe slowly and hold the pose steady for five breaths.

2. Tree pose

• Start by standing in Mountain pose. For this balancing and hip-strengthening pose, you should feel free to use a chair, wall or rail for support.
• Turn the foot of your right leg outward and raise the foot until you can place it flat against the left thigh. Push against the foot with your left (standing leg) thigh.
• Fire up the legs and glutes, pulling in the abdominal muscles and holding the shoulder blades flat against your back to keep yourself upright.
• You can bring your palms together in front of your sternum if you have sufficient balance.
• Hold for five breaths.
• Repeat with the other leg.

3. Butterfly pose

• Sit on your mat, keeping your back straight, your spine long and your abdominal muscles flexed. If you are struggling to keep your posture, sit on a folded blanket or foam block for more height and to open the hips.
• Bring your feet together in front of you so that the bottoms of your feet touch, and let your knees sink out to the side, forming a diamond shape in front of you.
• Try to bring your heels in as far towards you as you can while keeping a straight posture.
• Wrap your hands over the tops of your feet.
• Hold for 30 seconds, then bring your face down toward your feet, letting your back round gently.
• Try to keep your knees as close as possible to the floor.
• Take five slow breaths.

You can also do this pose lying on your back.

4. Bird dog pose

• Start by kneeling on the mat on all fours (feel free to add more padding/a blanket under the knees if uncomfortable). Make sure your wrists are directly under your shoulders, your knees are directly under your hips, and that your spine is straight.
• Stretch one arm straight out in front of you, and stretch the opposite leg straight out behind you. Keep looking down with your neck in line with your spine.
• Move slowly, controlling each motion. Breathe out as you lift up and outwards, and breathe in as you bring your arm and leg back down.
• Repeat with the opposite side.
• Repeat both sides five times.

5. Seated spinal twist

• Sit upright on your mat with your legs straight out in front of you.
• Bring your right knee up to your chest, and cross it over your left leg, so that your foot is flat on the floor next to the left thigh.
• Bend your left leg so that your heel comes to rest by your right glute. This will look a bit like a knot. Try to keep your hips square and rest your glutes on the floor. If you can’t, put a folded blanket under the lifted hip for some extra support.
• Reach your right arm behind you (don’t over stretch, just bring it to the floor), raise your left arm up and wrap it around your right knee, so you are holding it closer to your chest.
• Breath in, then exhale, turning toward the right. Keep your chin up and try to keep your shoulders square by pushing the left arm’s shoulder blade flat and away from your ears.
• Hold for between 30 seconds and one minute and come out slowly.
• Repeat with the other side.

All of these poses can be modified in a sitting position. You can find videos online that will show how to do this. Before you start any exercise program it’s important to consult with your doctor.

The Shores is part of the United Methodist Communities network, providing exceptional care and socialization opportunities for seniors in South Jersey. Please contact us to learn more about our community or visit our website at https://theshores.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://theshores.umcommunities.org/the-shores/5-senior-yoga-stretches-to-improve-balance/

5 Ways to Avoid Caregiver Burnout

 

Even though you are a primary caregiver to someone else, caring for yourself should always take first priority. “Caregiver burnout” is real and it affects not only you, but your senior loved one and your other family members. For those who may not know, caregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion that is brought on by unrelieved stress related to caregiving. It is not something to be taken lightly, especially during Mental Health Awareness Month. That’s why our care team in Pitman, NJ has put together warning signs and the 5 most effective ways to avoid the dreaded caregiver burn
out. 

Signs of caregiver burnout

If you are experiencing any or all of the signs listed below, you are broaching on burnout territory.

• Becoming irrationally impatient or angry with the person in your care and others around you
• Generally feeling like caregiving is controlling every aspect of your life
• Lack of energy, overwhelming fatigue and sleeping problems
• Weight loss or weight gain due to changes in eating habits
• Losing interest or withdrawing from activities you once enjoyed
• Neglecting your own needs both physically and emotionally
• Feelings of hopelessness, depression, or anxiety; frequent mood swings
• Frequently experiencing headaches, stomach aches or other physical problems that are not common for you

Preventing caregiver burnout: 5 methods 

Now that you are aware of the warning signs, here are 5 of the best methods in preventing caregiver burnout:

1. Allocate at least 1 hour of each day just for you.  Easier said than done, but really commit to that 1 hr each day and do whatever you want with it. Turn your phone off and enjoy your morning coffee in silence. Or read a few chapters of a new book you’ve been dying to dig into.
2. Delegate tasks to others when possible. The people who are closest to you will always want to help you out, especially if they know you may be experiencing caregiver burnout. If you are married or in a relationship, ask your significant other to take over cooking dinner. Or ask one of your good friends to run those extra errands for you. Taking some daily tasks off your plate will alleviate stress and will give you more time to focus on yourself.
3. Prioritize your personal needs. Do not keep putting off that doctor’s appointment or skip weekly workouts. Your needs matter, they are valid and you are entitled to take care of yourself first before caring for someone else. If you have to, go to sleep earlier and wake up earlier in the morning to gain more time for your self-care.
4. Join a caregiver support group. It often helps to speak to others who are going through the same feelings as you. Fortunately, there are caregiving support groups that you attend either in person or virtually. Two of the most well-known support groups are the Caregiver Action Network and the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.  
5. Consider respite care at United Methodist Communities. It’s so important to take a mental break and go on a vacation once in a while, especially if you are a full-time caregiver. If you’re wondering who can watch mom or dad while you’re away, respite care is an ideal solution. Respite care at UMC provides your loved one with individualized care in a safe, nurturing environment with a professional staff to support their needs 24/7.

Respite care in Pitman, NJ

At Pitman, caregiving revolves around the quality of our nurses and associates, our faith-based mission, and our commitment to an abundant life for all seniors. We offer a variety of senior care services that can put your mind and the minds of your family members at ease. Respite is a perfect opportunity to try out UMC at Pitman before making a commitment and many people become residents through this avenue. They find new friends, outlets for their interests, as well as a very welcoming environment.

To learn more about respite care for seniors in Gloucester County, please contact United Methodist Communities at Pitman today or visit our website at: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2021/05/04/5-ways-to-avoid-caregiver-burnout/

Celebrating Nurses on National Nurses Day

 

National Nurses Day is May 6, and at our Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) in Sussex County, we think it’s so important to honor nurses as the everyday heroes they are.

When we reflect on the past year, it’s impossible to ignore the impact that COVID-19 had on all of our lives. From the earliest days of the pandemic, nurses were on the frontlines providing essential care and comforting people during very stressful, anxious times. 

In assisted living in UMC at Bristol Glen in Sussex County, we’ve put together some fun and meaningful ways to celebrate the nurses in our lives on National Nurses Day:

• Use the hashtag #NationalNursesDay in your social media posts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Whether you want to recognize your family members and friends who are nurses, or post a more general message of acknowledgement and solidarity, it’s a great way to show your support. Also, if your social media profiles are public then anyone following the hashtag will be able to see your tribute.
• Make handmade cards for the nurses in your life. Perhaps you have a loved one in a CCRC who receives regular care from a nurse, or maybe you have a doctor’s appointment around May 6. We’ve all received care from nurses at some point in our lives, so handmade cards with heartfelt messages are a wonderful way to make their day.
   
• Make gift baskets filled with self-care items. Nurses spend all day on their feet rushing around. Rarely do they get time to themselves because they’re always so busy taking care of others. With that said, put together a few gift baskets for the nurses you know, and include items that are perfect for relaxation like face masks, bath bombs, herbal teas, scented candles, chocolates, and a little note to express your thanks.
• Bake some tasty treats. If you know any nurses then you know they often struggle to find time to cook, so why not make some delicious meals or sweet treats for them to enjoy? They’ll appreciate the thought and it’ll fit perfectly into their busy schedules.

Celebrating our assisted living nurses in North Jersey

At UMC at Bristol Glen, our nurses are the backbone of our community. They work very hard to provide all of our residents with a safe, comfortable experience and we greatly appreciate everything they do.  

Nurses at Bristol Glen keep our CCRC running smoothly and keep our senior residents in our assisted living, Tapestries Memory Care and skilled nursing  neighborhoods properly cared for, including monitoring and administering medications, conducting routine health check-ups, monitoring vitals, working with residents on their mobility issues, and much more. 

If you’ve ever visited a CCRC then you were probably struck by how “non-medical” it seemed. You won’t find hospital equipment at every corner and it won’t feel institutional like a  hospital. Instead it’ll feel more like a condo complex or a senior community – but rest assured our nurses are there working behind the scenes to keep everyone safe, healthy, and happy. 

For more information about Bristol Glen, our CCRC in Sussex County New Jersey, please contact our care team today or visit our website at: https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/skilled-nursing-long-term-nursing-care-sussex-county-nj/

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/celebrating-nurses-on-national-nurses-day/

Itching for a Vacation? Consider Respite Care for Mom & Dad

 

Summer is pretty much here, and everyone deserves a vacation – especially senior caregivers. Caregiving can be so rewarding, but with great reward comes great responsibility. Juggling multiple responsibilities like caring for your senior parent 24/7, caring for your own family, and perhaps, even managing another career can be exhausting without the occasional break. If this sounds like you, now is the time to consider respite care at United Methodist Communities at Collingswood. At UMC, mom and dad will be fully supported as if they are full-time assisted living residents – meaning we will do everything to keep them engaged, safe and sound. 

If you’re still on the fence, our respite care team at Collingswood, NJ, has compiled a list of the three major reasons why you should consider respite for mom and dad.

#1 – More chances for them to socialize. There is always something going on at Collingswood! Even during COVID-19, the way we socialized may have changed, but that didn’t mean we ever stopped. With our enhanced health and safety measures, we have been able to hold group activities successfully like movie days, virtual museum tours in the library and meditation. When mom and dad join us short-term for respite, they will be able to join in on the fun and socialize with other residents.

#2 – Mom and dad will have access to all care services within the community. Apart from all the fun activities, your senior parent will have access to all the care services offered at our assisted living community. Services like medication management, assistance with personal care and hygiene, meal preparation and more are all a part of respite care at Collingswood.

#3 – You will come back from vacation feeling better than ever! Taking breaks from caregiving from time to time is not only encouraged, but very necessary for your mental health. As rewarding as caregiving can be, if you don’t prioritize your own self-care, you will succumb to the dreaded “caregiver burnout.” Seeking occasional respite, especially for a nice vacation getaway, will help to reduce stress and refresh your energy levels. There’s also no need to worry about whether or not your senior parents are in the right hands. Our experienced associates are on-site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to address their wants and needs almost immediately.

Active respite care for seniors in Camden County, NJ

The more active seniors are, the better! Taking part in regular physical activity keeps seniors strong enough to complete daily tasks on their own, while maintaining independence. At Collingswood, respite care entails many physical activities to keep seniors busy and active, such as group meditation, yoga and other fun exercise programs. As mentioned above, our respite care residents also enjoy access to other care services, such as assistance with daily tasks, delicious dining options, and other UMC events that are going on.

Contact United Methodist Communities at Collingswood to find out how we are leading the way in respite for seniors in New Jersey. Our dedicated associates can answer any questions you may have about all the respite care services offered in Camden County, NJ. For more information, please visit our website at: https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/collingswood/itching-for-a-vacation-consider-respite-care-for-mom-dad/

6 Ways to Celebrate Mother’s Day in a CCRC

 

Mother’s Day is coming up quick on May 9th! If your mother is in a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) or retirement community, this is a great opportunity to treat her to something special, enjoy the warm spring weather and just spend quality time together.

Depending on COVID-19 protocols, here are some ideas on how to celebrate with your mother this year, from United Methodist Communities at Bristol Glen, our CCRC in Newton, NJ. Check with Bristol Glen for the latest information.

1.  Bring Mother’s Day to her. If you are concerned about COVID-19 or your mother has a medical condition that makes it difficult for her to leave the CCRC, then bring the celebrations to her! Order take out from her favorite restaurant, pack gifts and family members into the car and you’re all set for a special day together. It’s also a good idea to bring some entertainment too, like cards, board games, or movies, especially if you’re bringing the grandkids along.

2.  A nice family meal. Over the last year or so, none of us have been able to celebrate with our families the way we’d like to. Mother’s Day is the perfect time to get everyone together for a home cooked family meal. It’s a chance to make something really special, so plan a menu of her favorite foods, dress the table up with beautiful centerpieces and décor, and celebrate together in style.

3.  A relaxing day at the nail salon or spa. Who doesn’t enjoy being pampered? As we all get older, it becomes a little bit more challenging to keep up with manicures and pedicures, so why not treat your mom to a little bit of luxury? Remember to look around at local spas to see if they have senior specials or Mother’s Day packages, and you can even get a specialist to do a home visit if you feel more comfortable not going out.

4.  Visit a local farm, park or garden. We’re all very happy to see spring has finally arrived, and what better way to enjoy it than outdoors among the flowers? Take a day trip out to botanical gardens, like the New Jersey Botanical Garden, or the Van Vleck House and Gardens to enjoy the blossoms, fresh air and sunshine together. Another good idea is to visit a local park or farm like Windy Brow Farms to get out into the countryside and pick up some farm-fresh produce and goodies for a picnic.

5.  Go “hunting for treasure.” If you and your mother love to browse antiques and look for hidden treasures, then Mother’s Day is the perfect day for a little shopping trip! Plan a route through some of the best antique stores near Newton, complete with stops for lunch and snacks, and enjoy a day of bargain hunting together. You’ll be sure to find the perfect gift for her along the way!

6.  Plan a remote celebration. If you don’t live nearby and can’t get to your mother to celebrate together, you can still make the day very special for her. Send a care package full of all her favorite goodies, including chocolates, flowers, favorite treats, a soft robe and slippers. Set up a Skype or Zoom session with her and have the whole family join in. Near or far, there is always a safe way to connect with Mom.

Independent living at our continuing care retirement community in Newton, NJ

Bristol Glen is part of the United Methodist Community network, a collection of senior living and assisted living communities in New Jersey dedicated to supporting abundant, independent living.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re not only working hard to keep your loved ones safe and healthy, but we’re also doing our best to keep families connected. If you would like to treat your loved one this Mother’s Day or would like to inquire further about our care services, just give us a call and we’ll do everything we can to help! You can also find out more about UMC at Bristol Glen by visiting our website at https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/bristol-glen/6-ways-to-celebrate-mothers-day-in-a-ccrc/

Early Warning Signs of Alzheimer's in Older Adults

     

As we age, it can be difficult to distinguish normal forgetfulness from something more serious, like Alzheimer’s Disease. Our South Jersey memory care team is here to share some of the early warning signs of Alzheimer’s in older adults, which can hopefully help you determine if your loved one needs a more professional level of care. 

According to the Alzheimer’s Association there are 50 million people around the world living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, so it’s likely that you know someone who has Alzheimer’s disease. With that said, do you know what early warning signs to watch out for?

1. Uncharacteristic changes in personality or mood. We all experience the occasional mood swing, but Alzheimer’s causes the person to feel confused, anxious, frustrated, or easily upset both at home and when outside of their comfort zone. 
2. They withdraw from social activities. If you notice your older loved one is no longer the social butterfly they once were, it might be because they’re struggling to keep up with conversations or because they have difficulty with a group dynamic. 
3. Their judgment changes. We know our loved ones, including their personalities, their habits, and their quirks. If you notice your senior parent making decisions that seem out of character, like making irresponsible decisions with their money, it may be a sign of something more serious. 
4. They stop caring about personal cleanliness and grooming. While this can also be a symptom of depression, a lack of interest in personal hygiene can be a strong indicator of Alzheimer’s. 
5. Misplacing important items. We’ve all occasionally misplaced our keys or our phones, but people with Alzheimer’s will often misplace important items and they won’t be able to retrace their steps in order to help find them. 
6. They have difficulty with one-on-one conversations. People with Alzheimer’s may lose their train of thought mid-conversation, they may repeat themselves several times, or they may struggle to remember common words or phrases.
7. Confusion with times and places. It’s common to miss an appointment here and there. However, if you notice your loved one is losing track of important dates, or if they forget where they are and how they got there, speak with their primary doctor as soon as possible. 
8. They struggle to complete routine tasks. Things like making a grocery list, putting every-day items like dishes back in the correct place, and driving to frequently-visited locations may become difficult to those with Alzheimer’s.
9. Difficulty with planning and problem-solving, including managing monthly bills and making plans to get together with family.
10.  Asking the same questions repeatedly, even when they’ve just been given the information they’re asking for.

When is it time for professional memory care? 

As Alzheimer’s advances, the person usually becomes unable to live alone and often requires around-the-clock professional care. It can be a difficult decision to make, but if your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, it may be time to start exploring your options. We recommend researching specialized memory care neighborhoods like Tapestries® at The Shores in Cape May County because we have many different cutting-edge methods to handle the specific needs of people with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. 

From on-site medical care to flexible sleep and meal schedules, Tapestries Memory Care at The Shores has been designed to give your loved one the highest quality of life possible. While also giving you the peace of mind in knowing your loved one with dementia is in a safe, secure environment that prioritizes their every need. 

For more information about United Methodist Communities at The Shores, or if you have any questions about our Tapestries Memory Care neighborhood in South Jersey, please contact us today or visit our website at: https://theshores.umcommunities.org/alzheimers-dementia-care/

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/early-warning-signs-of-alzheimers-in-older-adults/