Chronic Disease Management at Home

 Did you know many chronic diseases can be managed at home? In this article, the UMC HomeWorks  team looks at how home health aide services can help seniors with chronic diseases manage their condition at home and maintain their independence and connections to the community.

Home Health Care for Chronic Disease Management 

Chronic conditions require a lifetime of management to support a person’s health, independence, and wellbeing. At home, this can be achieved by making use of a range of healthcare channels. They include:

• Telehealth – A bit like a digital home visit, having access to a doctor through a telehealth channel gives patients access to medical expertise whenever they require it. This also eliminates challenges around getting a convenient appointment time or travelling to a doctor’s office, as well as the risks of coming into contact with germs and contagious conditions.

• Active health monitoring – This is a way to unobtrusively monitor key health indicators such as heart rate, movement, blood pressure, blood oxygen levels, and more. Devices can send automatic alerts when a patient needs increased care, improve reaction times in the event of a medical emergency (including falls), and even help patients track improvements in their lifestyle and health.

 

• Patient empowerment – Easy access to specialists including doctors and nurse,s as well as nutritionists and therapists, empower patients to take control of their health and improve their condition. This helps improve patient outcomes, healing after surgery or illness, and lower hospitalization rates. Through better chronic disease management, seniors have instant access to resources that help them better manage their health, physical and mental wellbeing.

 

What Chronic Diseases can be Managed at Home?

Through a combinaton of technology and assistance from skilled nurses, medical specialists, and therapists, members of the UMC HomeWorks’ team with chronic disease expertise can assist you in managing conditions  such as:

• Diabetes – 1.4 million people in the USA are diagnosed with diabetes each year, and an estimated 15.9 million seniors currently have diabetes (diagnosed or undiagnosed). Using active monitoring and telehealth, we can monitor blood sugar and help seniors manage insulin, as well as improve nutrition, medication management, and lifestyle choices.
• Neurological conditions – Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and other types ofdementia, and multiple sclerosis can all be assisted by home chromic disease management. We can assess the home for fall risks, assist with medication management, provide educational resources, and deliver physical and occupational therapies. 

 

• CHF – With approximately 5.8 million people in the USA with congestive heart failure, and the majority of these people being over the age of 65, CHF management at home is an important focus of our program. With access from home to a team of trained heart failure management specialists, we can review and manage medications, provide wound care, and monitor weight and vital signs.

 

• COPD – Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is related to chronic bronchitis and chronic emphysema, and rates are higher in people over the age of 65, especially in women. We can monitor vital signs like blood oxygen levels to detect when a condition is worsening, as well as providing medication management, physical therapy, and other therapies.

 

• Fall prevention – For seniors who choose to remain at home, falls can be a considerable health risk. In fact, falls are a leading cause of injury and hospitalization for seniors. Our team can perform an evaluation of the home to highlight high-risk areas and assist you with preventing falls. We can also provide active monitoring that can detect a fall should one occur, ensuring fast response to this emergency situation. Finally, we can also provide wound care and recovery advice,  as well as rehabilitation therapies and health monitoring to prevent additional falls in the future.

 

Get a helping hand from UMC HomeWorks’ chronic disease management team

As part of the United Methodist Communities network, the HomeWorks program is designed to provide seniors with expert care and companionship in New Jersey. Our services are customized to each client are provided by experienced, compassionate home health aides who have a passion for working with seniors. To find out more about hiring a home health aide in New Jersey for your loved one with a chronic disease, please contact the UMC HomeWorks today or visit our website at

You might be considering in home care for your mom or dad, but do they need live-in care or just a daily visit?  In this article, our experts at UMC HomeWorks explain the difference between the two,  and give some helpful advice on how to decide which level of care is appropriate for your loved one needs.

What is Live-in Care?

Not to be confused with 24-hour care or overnight care, live-in care is when a home health aide moves into a client’s home to take up residence for as long as care is required. With this service, a schedule will be created for the caregiver that includes care times and requirements as well as time off for sleep and leisure. You will usually only have one caregiver and they will be a part of home life as well as attending to their client as the schedule dictates.

In contrast, overnight and 24-hour care occur when the client needs a caregiver actively on duty during the night or during the 24-hour cycle (this can mean shifts of a few different caregivers). This type of care is recommended when a client cannot be left unattended.

Live-in care is a great option for seniors who don’t need overnight care but can benefit from consistent assistance through the day. For example, if your loved one needs help with activities of daily living (bathing, grooming, meals, etc.), need to be driven to appointments, and would like companionship through the day, but sleep well and don’t require attention at night, live-in care would be a good fit

In terms of costs, a live-in caregiver is generally more affordable option. Their pay is independent of and in addition to room and board, and they have the right to 5-8 hours of sleep per day, time off within the workday, and overtime pay.

What is a Daily Visit?

A daily visit is when a home health aide visits the client for a predetermined number of hours each day according to a set schedule. This schedule and the activities they are responsible for will be developed between the home health aide and the agency providing their services, as well as with you and your loved one.

For example, a daily visit may be ideal if you have busy mornings and you need someone to assist your loved one with bathing, grooming, breakfasting, and getting ready for the day. Or, if you work afternoon shifts, a daily visit can ensure your loved one has had lunch and dinner, gets some exercise and companionship, and is readied for bed in the evenings.

Because they require fewer hours of care, daily visits are more affordable than live-in care, and you don’t have to make provisions for room and board. This is the lowest level of in-home care, but it’s important to keep in mind that it can be scaled up or down. For example, you can start  daily visits at 3 hours a day, but if you discover your loved one needs more help, this can be increased to an 8-hour shift to include all meals and assistance services. In this way, a daily visit can provide the same level of care as a live-in caregiver, without needing to stay overnight or move into the home.

Choosing the Right Care – and the Right Caregivers – in NJ

When looking for live-in care or daily care, it’s important to focus on what activities your loved one needs assistance with, as well as what type of care they need. Our team can help you find the right service for your loved one.

The United Methodist Communities HomeWorks program is designed for seniors who want more assistance in daily life while still enjoying the comfort of home and their communities. We provide live-in care, daily visits, 24-hour care, overnight care, and respite care – all through well-trained, experienced, and qualified caregivers. To find out how we can help you or your parents live a healthy independent life through at home care for the elderly, please contact us today or visit our website at

https://umcommunities.org/homeworks/chronic-disease-management/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/homeworks/in-home-senior-care/chronic-disease-management-at-home/

National Senior Citizens Day

 

You’re darn tootin’ seniors get their own day! This month on the 21st is National Senior Citizens Day and if you’re 70+, you surely deserve some special recognition. Older adults are irreplaceable to both their families and society because we have so much to learn from them. Their years of experience translate to seasoned wisdom that we can all stop and really take in. At UMC at The Shores, a leading senior living community in South Jersey, we celebrate our residents every day, not just on this special day. If you’re looking for some ways to celebrate, here are a few activities our assisted living team in Cape May County put together to try to make this day extra special for everyone.

#1 – Lunch on the boardwalk

Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful weather with a walk along the boardwalk and a delicious lunch! Many restaurants also offer senior citizen discounts and specials to take advantage of, and there’s so many options to choose from! Whether you like a tangy BBQ, authentic pasta, a classic burger, and shake, or fresh seafood, you’ll be sure to find a spot with great food and an even better view.

#2 – Birding by boat

Our coast is blessed with a bounty of salt marsh wildlife and birds, and the best way to see them is by boat. Take a guided tour and get to know the secretive birdlife and marine life of this ecosystem. Your experienced captain and naturalist on board will be able to teach you all about them.

#3 – Sunset safari

If you’re more of a night owl, then a sunset boat safari is probably more up your alley! You may have seen your bird and marine life by day, but at night it’s a different story. Cruise through the salt marsh behind Cape May and Wildwood as the sun sets, and let experienced naturalists help you spot fascinating wildlife in their natural habitat.

#4 – Whale and dolphin watching

Board the Cape May Whale Watcher with your family and friends for a 3-hour tour of Delaware Bay and the estuary. Get your binoculars and camera ready to spot porpoises, dolphins, manta rays, humpback whales, bald eagles, gannets, and more! It’s a guided tour where you’ll also learn a bit about the seafaring history of the area and the native marine life.

#5 – Lighthouse tour

Not just romantic icons of the past, lighthouses have played an essential role in seafaring safety and history for hundreds of years. New Jersey’s lighthouses are famous for their part in protecting ships and ports through wars and peacetime as they sailed the treacherous Delaware Bay. Now you can see them from the ocean through an interesting historic tour. The best part: lunch and snacks are included too!

#6 – Golf and mini golf

Get out on the green and enjoy a day of golf in the mild weather while it lasts! Whether you’re an avid golfer or simply enjoy putting with the grandkids, Ocean City has the course for you. The Ocean City Golf Course is a 12-hole, 37-par course designed by Leo Frazier and is family-friendly. If this course isn’t your speed, there are several other mini-golf courses you can choose from if you prefer more light-hearted fun.

Celebrate life at our assisted living community in Cape May County

The Shores is an assisted living community in South Jersey that makes a difference! Not only are we located just a stone’s throw away from the golf course, marina, boardwalk shops, and beautiful beaches, but we also have a very different approach to senior living. Our aim is to support seniors to live abundant, full life. That means independent senior living, a lively social and events calendar, and plenty of amenities to use and explore in Cape May County.

You can find out more about our assisted living community and how we celebrate Senior Citizen’s Day every day by calling us or visiting our website at: https://umcommunities.org/theshores

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/theshores/blog/national-senior-citizens-day/

What to Look for in an Independent Lifestyle Community

 

Senior living has really come a long way. It has gone from begging and pleading mom and dad to even consider a community to independent seniors desiring this lifestyle and choosing where they want to be. With resort-like amenities, delicious dining options, and help available whenever you need it, who wouldn’t want to retire in a senior community like UMC at Pitman? However, there are certain qualities one must really keep in mind when searching for the right independent lifestyle community that will really make or break your overall experience.

Seniors should think about how each feature of the community will enhance their quality of life – physically, emotionally, and even spiritually. With this in mind, our senior care team will discuss what the non-negotiables are when it comes to independent lifestyle communities with support.

How is the Community Prioritizing Health & Wellness?

Physical exercise is essential to staying independent and minimizing health issues as you age, so it’s important that the independent lifestyle community in consideration has many exercise options available. Think about how you like to keep fit and then see what the community offers in relation to that. For example, if you enjoy dancing, see if they hold dance classes weekly, like Zumba. Or if you enjoy taking a daily walk, check out their grounds and ensure there are designated walking trails. It’s important to note that engaging in physical exercise on a regular basis may also require someone to keep you accountable, so see if they have a personal trainer onsite or a dedicated associate to remind you when physical activities are taking place each day.

What are their Opportunities for Entertainment & Socialization?

Will you be responsible for making your own fun or will you be entertained? Ask the senior community in question what their activity and events calendar look like each month, because even if you do not have to be entertained each day – it’s good to have the option. You never know what kind of mood you’re going to wake up in and if you’re feeling social – it’s important to have something fun to do with other residents!

Independent living communities should also be open to activity recommendations, as they will want each resident to feel like they are truly home. For example, if you love painting – see if you can talk to an advisor onsite about setting up an arts and crafts club. This will also be a great way to socialize and make new friends based on shared interests. As we grow older, it’s even more important for our mental health to connect with one another and maintain relationships. This is made even easier when you reside in a community with people who are looking for the same things you are in a friendship.

How do you feel the Community Mission Aligns with Yours?

A person’s faith is a very personal thing. Your faith represents who you are and what you truly believe in, and your home should be a reflection of that. An element that may be overlooked, but is essential to consider when choosing a community is their spirituality. Do their morals and values align with your own? Do they offer religious services, counselling, or clubs to take part in? These are core questions to ask an independent lifestyle community to ensure you truly feel at home – on every level.

Seniors living independently in Pitman, NJ

Active senior communities like Pitman eliminate daily burdens like cooking, cleaning, chores, and home maintenance, making room for more independent seniors. Residents at Pitman can also take advantage of long-lost interests they’ve put on hold like yoga, bible club, gardening, arts and crafts.

We understand how hard it could be to make new friends as we enter our senior years, but independent lifestyle communities like Pitman make it easy. Our residents have the opportunity to engage in monthly activities on-site, where they can meet and befriend other members living in the community who enjoy and want the same things out of life.

For more information about our independent lifestyle community with support in Gloucester County, please give us a call to schedule a tour or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/pitman/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/pitman/blog/what-to-look-for-in-an-independent-lifestyle-community/

What You Need to Know About Palliative Care

 

If your loved one is battling a serious illness, you may have heard the term “palliative care” from their doctor. It could be a scary word, especially since it is used interchangeably with hospice care. However, there are significant differences between these two types of senior care services. Here’s what you really need to know about palliative care if it is recommended for your senior loved one.

What is Palliative Care?

Palliative care is a series of services designed to improve the quality of life for someone with a serious illness. This type of care is all-encompassing and has the opportunity to positively impact the course of the illness with different therapies. Some of the services included in palliative care are medication management, nutritional changes, relaxation techniques, 24/7 health monitoring, and both emotional and spiritual therapy. It can be given in conjunction with curative treatment, depending on the illness. Common senior health conditions that can benefit from palliative care include certain types of cancer, heart disease, and kidney disease. The key difference between palliative care and hospice is that palliative care can be administered alongside treatments to potentially cure the illness at hand, whereas hospice is about making the person in care as comfortable as possible throughout their final stages in life.

Why Choose Palliative Care in a Senior Community?

Palliative care offered in a senior community setting can make a big difference for both the resident and their family. Despite popular belief, palliative care is available at any stage of your loved one’s illness. However, it can prove to be the most beneficial right after the initial diagnosis. As mentioned above, palliative care is for those suffering from a serious illness and would like an extra level of emotional support for both themselves and their family. It’s important to note that palliative care can also successfully manage any harmful side effects of the illness, ensuring resident comfort at all times.

Palliative care at UMC at Collingswood

UMC at Collingswood provides palliative care in our specialty care neighborhood, Bridges. When receiving palliative care at Bridges, a team of nurses, therapists, and other health professionals are available 24/7 to attend to your loved one’s needs, as well as your family’s. The palliative care team at Collingswood offers support for families both emotionally and spiritually through counselling, activities, and keeping the line of communication open. Our team of compassionate and experienced professionals takes the time to get to know each resident’s specific needs, wants, and concerns in order to deliver the best care possible. They will talk to you and your loved one often to ensure they are taking the right course of action at all times.

If you are still unsure if your loved one can benefit from palliative care, please give one of the care advisors at Bridges a call today. We will take the time to discuss different options with you, and our on-site medical professional can make their best recommendation after performing a thorough evaluation of your senior loved one.

For more information on palliative care in Camden County, please contact us today or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/collingswood/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/collingswood/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-palliative-care/

Why You Need a Daily Routine as You Get Older

 

Have you heard the expression: “We are creatures of habit”? Our daily routines are a huge part of our lives, and they’re also important to our mental well-being as a whole. If you’re in school or in the corporate world, then your daily routine is most likely a 9-5 schedule Monday through Friday. Older adults who’ve retired, however, often find themselves not having a consistent daily routine. This can lead to feelings of restlessness, and the lack of structure can have negative impacts on their mental health. 

A senior’s daily routine can also be impacted by changes in their mobility. We will all experience the effects of aging, and whether it’s gradual mobility loss or more sudden due to illness or injury, physical changes can result in disruptions to daily routines. In this article, we will go over three main reasons why it’s important for seniors to develop a daily routine, despite their retirement status and mobility level.

It Reduces Stress and Anxiety 

Imagine waking up and not having any idea what each day will entail. Unpredictability makes us feel anxious, so creating a daily routine is a great way to cope with these feelings. A routine can be especially important for older adults who have dementia because it helps foster a sense of security that they may have lost after their diagnosis. 

Seniors who aren’t physically able to take care of themselves or engage in the activities they once loved can also benefit from a daily routine. Work with them to create a schedule that dictates who will be taking care of them, exactly what tasks the caregiver will be doing, and when these tasks will occur. This will help remove some of the stress they feel about losing independence. 

Increase Feelings of Safety and Security

No one enjoys constant insecurity, and with some very specific exceptions, most of us do not enjoy unplanned surprises. Creating a daily routine helps your senior loved one cultivate feelings of stability and safety, and allows them to have more control over their day. Rather than dictating their routine to them, we recommend sitting down with your loved one and discussing it together. Start with the basics: wake-up time, breakfast, medications, showering, and getting dressed for the day. 

When your loved one can look at their calendar and know what’s coming in the days ahead, it helps them feel more in control of their own life. 

Improves Sleep Duration

Getting adequate sleep is crucial for people of all ages, but it’s especially important for seniors, who sometimes tend to sleep less as they get older. Lack of sleep has negative impacts on both physical and mental health, so creating a bedtime routine is one way to encourage healthy sleeping habits. 

We recommend creating a bedtime routine that your loved one can do at the same time every night. Includes things like brushing your teeth, showering, locking all the windows and doors, changing into pajamas, and any other relaxation techniques they want to do before bed. It can be tempting to simply fall asleep on the couch while watching TV, but this doesn’t result in good quality sleep and they’ll likely wake up in the middle of the night feeling disoriented.  

If you have any questions about helping your loved one create a daily routine, or if you have any questions regarding senior care at United Methodist Communities, please contact our team today: https://umcommunities.org

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/blog/daily-routine/

Differences between Memory Care and Assisted Living

 

Understandably, most people don’t know a lot about the services available at a senior living community until a loved one requires significant care and management. Since we all don’t know what the future holds, it’s important to consider a CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community) as a senior living option for mom and dad. At a CCRC, all levels of senior care are available under one roof. If your senior loved one should develop an issue that requires elevated assisted living services or advanced memory care, they will not have to uproot their life and move again – they can remain in their community for as long as possible in a CCRC like Bristol Glen.

With that in mind, our memory care team in Sussex County, NJ, is sharing some insights on the differences between memory care and assisted living – and how to choose the right option for your loved one.

What is assisted living?

Assisted living is when a senior moves into a community that offers staff, amenities, and services that meet general care requirements. Seniors who move into assisted living have different needs, but generally they can no longer meet all of these care needs themselves at home. With the amenities and services provided, residents are putting their health, wellbeing, and independence in the best hands. For example, if a senior is a fall risk, has diabetes, and is struggling to maintain their home and do grocery shopping, a move into assisted living will provide the right support and safe living conditions they need.

Senior services from leading assisted living communities include:

• Spacious apartments that are maintained daily
• Meal services and community dining with other residents
• Proper medication management and check-ins with medical professionals on-site
• Assistance with activities of daily living – like bathing, grooming, getting dressed, and going to the restroom
• Access to physical therapists and other specialized medical professionals, as needed
• A variety of recreational activities and social events

What is memory care?

Memory care is assisted living with additional services for those who have Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia. It’s designed to meet the specialized needs of seniors with cognitive conditions, so it’s more intensive in terms of the level of care, the number of staff members to a resident, and the type of activities available to memory care residents.

People with cognitive conditions need additional support to enjoy their senior years and have a fulfilling senior living experience, and that’s what memory care delivers. Each resident is evaluated before moving into the community in order to properly assess the stage of their condition and their general health. The memory care associates supporting them are trained not only in helping residents with cognitive health issues, but also providing stimulation, companionship, and one-on-one personal care.

This level of personalization ensures that memory care teams are able to provide therapies that help residents access different parts of their brain and manage dementia-related stress factors and challenges. Memory care specialists also know how best to communicate with residents to keep them busy, engaged, and relaxed throughout the day.

In memory care, all the desirable aspects of assisted living are adapted for residents to accommodate their cognitive health issues. From unique diets and meal preferences to daily therapies and cognitive activities, memory care provides a safe, monitored, yet welcoming environment that meets each person’s needs.

Which is better – memory care or assisted living?

This comes down to whether your loved one has a cognitive health issue or not. Generally, assisted living is ideal for any older adult who needs assistance with daily life, can benefit from structured community living, and would appreciate easy access to amenities. Assisted living can accommodate seniors who need some help but are still quite independent, as well as seniors with complex medical conditions that need daily monitoring and management.

If your loved one has a diagnosed cognitive health issue, however, memory care is a better option. Even if their condition is currently mild, care can be tailored as time goes on and memory care associates can keep a close eye on their cognitive and physical health. It also provides a safe space where they are much more secure against wandering or accidental injury (which are considerable risks for people with cognitive health issues). Memory care also provides a lot of stimulation and therapies designed to slow cognitive decline. If you suspect your loved one has a cognitive health issue, it’s worth talking to their doctor about performing an assessment so that you can make an informed decision about moving them to a memory care neighborhood as their needs increase.

Memory care and assisted living at Bristol Glen

As we mentioned earlier, when considering a move to a senior community it’s best to look into an option that provides all levels of care under one roof like UMC at Bristol Glen. At our leading CCRC in New Jersey, we’re dedicated to supporting abundant, independent living, assisted living, and of course, offer our specialized Tapestries memory care program to seniors in Sussex County.

We’re proud to say that our CCRC in Sussex County earned a place on the U.S. News Best Nursing Homes and Short-Stay Rehabilitation Lists, reflecting our dedication to the health and wellbeing of all of our residents!

If you want to find out more about our approach to assisted living or about memory care in Sussex County, NJ, then please get in touch today or visit our website at:

https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/blog/differences-between-memory-care-and-assisted-living/

How to Boost Mental Health in Seniors

 

Mental health is incredibly important, and unfortunately, our senior loved ones are particularly vulnerable to mental health issues and struggles. Fortunately, talking about mental health and advocating for the mental health of your loved one isn’t nearly as taboo as it used to be. Many of us will face mental health challenges in our lives and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. In addition to seeking help from a mental health professional, there are things you can do now to support your loved one and help boost their mental health. Here’s what we recommend:

Get Physical

Being sedentary all day can negatively impact your senior loved one’s mental health. Exercise is known to boost endorphins, improving your mood and overall wellness. There are many options for all different abilities:

• A daily walk. This is a great way to spend some quality time with your loved one, and getting outside and breathing the fresh air will do everyone good. 
• Exercise classes for seniors. If your loved one is physically able to join exercise classes, check out your local YMCA or see what kind of fitness classes their senior living community offers. Many communities have senior classes for aerobics, swimming, yoga, dance, and much more.
• Stretch. Even five minutes of stretching every day can do wonders. 
  
  

Stay Connected with Friends

It’s normal to lose touch with friends as we go through life. We all get busy with our own lives and we aren’t as good about keeping up with the people we care about. Older adults have a tendency to become socially isolated, especially when they retire, and this can lead to feelings of depression and loneliness. Our friends and our community are vital parts of our lives, and maintaining strong relationships as we age is crucial. 

For seniors who are struggling to stay connected, it may be beneficial to set weekly or monthly meetings with their close friend group. Perhaps everyone is able to gather at a local coffee shop, or perhaps catching up via Zoom can be an option if everyone lives in different places. Maintaining friendships becomes a lot easier if your loved one resides at an active senior living community that encourages plenty of social interaction. Communities like UMC offer many opportunities for residents to connect with one another through activities, clubs and events on-site.  

Follow a Daily Routine

You’ve heard the expression that humans are creatures of habit – and it’s true. If you go to work every day then you understand the importance of a routine. But for seniors who reach retirement age, the shift from having a highly structured day to having a day with nothing to do can be jarring, and it can negatively impact their mental health. 

Humans need a sense of purpose and we need things to look forward to, so encouraging your loved one to create a daily routine will be beneficial for their mental health. Even something as simple as waking up at the same time every morning and making coffee and breakfast will help them get in a positive state of mind for the day ahead. 

If you have any questions about how to boost your loved one’s mental health, or if you have any questions about what community life is like at UMC, please contact our team today: https://umcommunities.org

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/blog/boost-mental-health/

 

Three Reasons Why Chair Yoga is a Great Idea for Seniors

 

Staying active as we age is incredibly important for both our physical and mental health. With aging comes changes in mobility, however, and we often find that we can’t move around as easily as we did in our younger days. If you’re looking for a fun way for your senior loved ones to exercise, but need to keep their mobility level in mind, we recommend trying chair yoga.

Yoga has a huge range of health benefits for people of all ages, but some of the poses and movements in traditional yoga can be difficult for people with limited mobility and other physical restrictions. Chair yoga is a great alternative to traditional yoga, and it offers many of the same benefits while being safer and more inclusive for older adults or those with limited mobility.

The Benefits of Yoga for Seniors

You may hear the word “yoga” and conjure up images of people doing headstands or full splits, but there are yoga classes for all ability levels. There are even yoga classes specially designed for senior beginners. Yoga has many benefits for seniors, including:

• Improved balance. Keeping a good sense of balance as we age is so important, especially for seniors who have a greater risk of falling. Having a fall can result in serious injuries like broken bones, and if they fall when they’re home alone, it’s even more dangerous. 
• Increased flexibility and strength. Seniors who are sedentary are at risk for muscle loss, and we all tend to become less flexible as we age. 
• Strengthened bones. Yoga has been shown to prevent the onset of osteoporosis, helping seniors combat weak and brittle bones. 
• Improved sleep habits. It’s essential that we get enough sleep every night, especially for seniors. 
• Alleviates aches and pains. We’ve all got a little ache somewhere, maybe in your shoulder or your knee. 

Chair Yoga for Seniors 

If your senior loved one isn’t able to participate in a traditional yoga class, don’t worry! Chair yoga can be customized to their mobility level and still provides many amazing benefits. Here are some of our favorite poses and movements you’ll find in a chair yoga class for seniors:

Warm up with gentle arm circles: While sitting upright in a chair, keep the arms straight and move them slowly in full circles, both forwards and backwards, for a minute or two. This warms up the shoulder joints and gets the blood flowing.

Cat-cow stretch: While seated, place the feet flat on the floor and your hands on your knees. Inhale, arch your spine, and roll your shoulders down and back – this is called cow position. Hold for a few seconds, then exhale while rounding your spine, drop your chin down to your chest, allowing the head to fall forward freely – this is cat position. Move between cat and cow several times and be mindful of your breathing.

Forward bend: Sit upright and keep your spine straight. When you exhale, bend at the waist, keeping your back straight, and hinge forward towards the floor as far as you can. Put your hands out in front of you towards the floor, and let your head hang freely. 

Hamstring stretch: Using a towel or a strap, wrap it around the bottom of the foot and hold onto it while you straighten your leg as much as possible. You’ll feel a deep stretch in your hamstring, hold it for a few seconds before slowly releasing it. 

If you have any questions about chair yoga for seniors, or if you have any other questions regarding our senior communities in NJ, please contact our team at United Methodist Communities today: https://umcommunities.org

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/blog/why-chair-yoga-is-a-great-idea-for-seniors/

 

Live-in Care or a Daily Visit?

You might be considering in home care for your mom or dad, but do they need live-in care or just a daily visit?  In this article, our experts at UMC HomeWorks explain the difference between the two,  and give some helpful advice on how to decide which level of care is appropriate for your loved one needs.

What is live-in care?

Not to be confused with 24-hour care or overnight care, live-in care is when a home health aide moves into a client’s home to take up residence for as long as care is required. With this service, a schedule will be created for the caregiver that includes care times and requirements as well as time off for sleep and leisure. You will usually only have one caregiver and they will be a part of home life as well as attending to their client as the schedule dictates.

In contrast, overnight and 24-hour care occur when the client needs a caregiver actively on duty during the night or during the 24-hour cycle (this can mean shifts of a few different caregivers). This type of care is recommended when a client cannot be left unattended.

Live-in care is a great option for seniors who don’t need overnight care but can benefit from consistent assistance through the day. For example, if your loved one needs help with activities of daily living (bathing, grooming, meals, etc.), need to be driven to appointments, and would like companionship through the day, but sleep well and don’t require attention at night, live-in care would be a good fit

In terms of costs, a live-in caregiver is generally more affordable option. Their pay is independent of and in addition to room and board, and they have the right to 5-8 hours of sleep per day, time off within the workday, and overtime pay.

What is a daily visit?

A daily visit is when a home health aide visits the client for a predetermined number of hours each day according to a set schedule. This schedule and the activities they are responsible for will be developed between the home health aide and the agency providing their services, as well as with you and your loved one.

For example, a daily visit may be ideal if you have busy mornings and you need someone to assist your loved one with bathing, grooming, breakfasting, and getting ready for the day. Or, if you work afternoon shifts, a daily visit can ensure your loved one has had lunch and dinner, gets some exercise and companionship, and is readied for bed in the evenings.

Because they require fewer hours of care, daily visits are more affordable than live-in care, and you don’t have to make provisions for room and board. This is the lowest level of in-home care, but it’s important to keep in mind that it can be scaled up or down. For example, you can start  daily visits at 3 hours a day, but if you discover your loved one needs more help, this can be increased to an 8-hour shift to include all meals and assistance services. In this way, a daily visit can provide the same level of care as a live-in caregiver, without needing to stay overnight or move into the home.

Choosing the right care – and the right caregivers – in NJ

When looking for live-in care or daily care, it’s important to focus on what activities your loved one needs assistance with, as well as what type of care they need. Our team can help you find the right service for your loved one.

The United Methodist Communities HomeWorks program is designed for seniors who want more assistance in daily life while still enjoying the comfort of home and their communities. We provide live-in care, daily visits, 24-hour care, overnight care, and respite care – all through well-trained, experienced, and qualified caregivers. To find out how we can help you or your parents live a healthy independent life through at home care for the elderly, please contact us today or visit our website at

https://umcommunities.org/homeworks/live-in-care-new-jersey/ 

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/homeworks/at-home-care/live-in-care-or-a-daily-visit/

Farewell Summer Activities for Seniors in Collingswood NJ

 

You know what they say, “All good things must come to an end.” Which is unfortunately the case about summer. It always comes and goes so quickly, but you shouldn’t let that happen without a proper send off. And hey, who says the fun has to end too? If you’re looking to make the most out of the last summer month with your loved one, check out our list of fun ends of summer activities for seniors – compiled by our senior living team at UMC Collingswood, in Camden County.

Roberts Pool Luau. A party is by far one of the best ways to say goodbye to summer, especially a themed party like a luau! Roberts Pool is a short drive from UMC at Collingswood and is hosting a community luau party on the 13th that will include a special lei greeting upon entry, Polynesian entertainment and hula dancers, shaved ice, fun games and prizes! This party is open to all public pool members and day guests at no extra charge – so there’s really no reason not to take part in all the end of summer swimming fun!

Read and Craft at the Library. By the end of summer, it’s safe to say most people have gotten their fair share of the sun. Seniors especially have to take extra precautions in the sun for they’re at a greater risk for sun damage and heat exhaustion. Visiting your local library to take part in special events is a great indoor summer activity. The Collingswood Public Library, less than 5 minutes away from our senior living community, holds book club meetings on the 3rd or 4th Wednesday of each month. They also have a fun coastal arts and crafts event planned on the 10th of this month, where seniors can make a keychain or pendant made out of pretty sea glass and wire.

Movies in Knight Park. This is another great alternative summer activity that doesn’t involve roasting in the sun. Beautiful Knight Park is only a 5-minute walk from our senior community and is the perfect place to gather with the whole family for a fun night out! Pack a big blanket, some lawn chairs, and a picnic basket with snacks, and enjoy hits like Disney’s Brave, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, and Space Jam under the stars. Movies in Knight Park are free and begin at dusk on Tuesdays and Thursdays in August. The big screen is located by the Browning and Collings intersection, near the gazebo.

End of summer activities for seniors at UMC

At our independent senior community in Collingswood, seniors are free to choose the lifestyle that makes the most sense for them – and are free to participate in all activities on-site. We always have a jam-packed social calendar each month, however, we have many special events scheduled for the end of summer in particular. Give one of our advisors a call today to learn more about how we are saying farewell to summer at UMC at Collingswood. If you are worried about mom or dad’s mobility and how it will interfere with group activities, our experienced associates are available 24/7 to assist if necessary and ensure the safety of all activities.

To find out more about independent lifestyles with support for seniors in Camden County NJ, please contact us today or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/collingswood

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/collingswood/blog/farewell-summer-activities-for-seniors-in-collingswood-nj/

A Brief History of Newton, New Jersey

 

Bristol Glen is continuing care retirement community offering older adults independent senior living, assisted living, memory care, and more just minutes from vibrant downtown Newton, NJ. Many people don’t realize what a rich history our town has, with a vibrant mix of cultures, businesses, shops, and entertainment. Despite being a smaller town, it gives you everything you’d want in life without the traffic and hustle that comes with living near a big city. Here’s a little bit of Newton’s history and what makes it the perfect balance between small-town hospitality and city living.

Introducing Newton, NJ!

Just 60 miles from New York City lies Newton, NJ, sitting at the source of the Paulinskill river in the Kittatinny Valley. The town lies on a gentle slope near the base of the Grate Slate Mountain with views towards the Big Spring, Paulinskill meadows, and Blue Mountains.

The history of the area dates back long before the town’s incorporation in 1864, with clay shards and neolithic tools dating back several thousand years. These have been attributed to the original inhabitants – the Tockhockonetcong, likely a Lenne Lenape tribe – who have since vanished.

During the revolution, this small town grew dramatically.  Thanks to its position as a hub where turnpikes and post roads met, Newton became a regional center for banks, newspapers, mail, freight, commerce, and education. This growth was accelerated by the completion of the Sussex Railroad in 1854, which brought in hotels, brick emporiums, and premier locations for trade and commerce. The town’s expansion also drove architectural advancements in the area, and today we can still see incredible craftsmanship in the killed masonry, decorative scrollwork, and turned balustrades in existing Historic Newton structures, such as neoclassical homes and commercial buildings. Some of our most beautiful buildings include the Victorian Merriam Casa Bella, Christ Episcopal Church, Sussex County Courthouse, Cortelyou House, Newton Firehouse Museum, and The Newton Academy.

Despite being in a county that boasted more cows than people between 1850 and 1950, Newton became a town beloved by newly returned veterans, young couples, and families looking for a nurturing and safe place to live.

Newton attractions – Why we love our big, little town

Today, Newton is a thriving town with diverse cultures, industries, and amenities set in beautiful natural splendour. With such a vibrant mix of people who reside in the area, Newton can’t help but be a town where everyone enjoys the sunny weather, somewhat warmer New Jersey winters, and beautiful autumn colors.

There is a ton to see and do in Newton, NJ, including:

• Museums, art galleries, and libraries – Such as the Newton Fire Museum, Sussex County arts and heritage gallery, and Dennis Library.
• Theater – The Newton Theatre and Drama Geek Studios offer classes, workshops, and performances throughout the year.
• Religious gatherings – Hosted in the several Christian churches in town, as well as Jewish synagogues.
• Sports – Get out and support our local sports clubs and teams, including the Newton Braves football club, Sussex County Miners baseball club, and our beloved high school teams.
• Nature – Breathe in plenty of fresh air when you visit our lovely parks, including Memory Park and Pine Street Park, the nearby Kittatinny Valley State Park, Hillside Park, and Swartswood State Park.

Bristol Glen – Abundant senior living in Newton, NJ

Are you interested in senior living near Newton, NJ? Bristol Glen is one of the leading long-term care communities in Sussex County, located right near the action of Newton, NJ. Our community space is designed to be beautiful and spacious, as well as making the town of Newton easily accessible to our residents. We offer a welcoming space for seniors who need additional care, as well as specialized memory care services. Our skilled nursing team is compassionate, experienced, and ready to assist with dementia support for seniors, as well as managing strokes, diabetes, and other complex medical conditions.

For more information on Bristol Glen and how we are different from other long-term care communities in Sussex County NJ, please contact us today or visit our website at:

https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/blog/a-brief-history-of-newton-new-jersey/

Retire at the Beach!

 

Okay, so maybe we’re biased – but honestly who wouldn’t want to be living out their best years in a beautiful senior community only a few blocks from the ocean?! There’s something relaxing and calming about the water, and that’s true all year around. Not to mention, the many activities you can take part in by the boardwalk and ocean. If you’re originally from Jersey you know there is always something going on “down the shore.”

With that being said, here’s a bit of info about where UMC at The Shores is located, our beautiful natural surroundings, and just a few of the many beaches, boardwalk, and water-related activities our team at The Shores organizes for our senior living residents.

Seaside location

UMC at The Shores is an assisted living community offering specialized memory care, along with many additional senior care services, in southern New Jersey. We’re fortunate enough to be in a prime location opposite the Ocean City Golf Course, overlooking the residential marinas and out to the ocean towards Shooting Island. Ocean City is well-known as “America’s Greatest Family Resort”, but it has wonderful amenities for all ages!

• Beaches – The star of the show is of course, our 8 miles of pristine beaches. Whether you want to walk along the beach or simply sit and enjoy the sound of the waves, it’s a wonderful privilege to have right on your doorstep.

• Boardwalk – With over 2 miles of well-maintained boardwalk, there’s no excuse not to get your daily exercise! Explore the quaint shops, rest with a morning coffee at one of the many cafes, catch up with the locals, or enjoy a quick meal overlooking the ocean.

• Corson’s Inlet State Park – With a wheelchair-accessible entrance, anyone can enjoy the wild and natural beauty of New Jersey at this well-maintained state park. It makes for a wonderful outing for seniors and families where you can watch migratory birds and wildlife species, sunbathe, enjoy fishing (with a license!), and even go boating if you’re feeling adventurous!

• Shopping – From interesting little shops on the boardwalk and in Downtown Ocean City to Stainton’s mall, you can shop to your heart’s content! Lovely for browsing as well as buying, you’ll find everything you need for your home, gifts, everyday life, and treats within easy distance from our senior living community.

• Museums and galleries – From local art galleries to the Ocean City Arts Centre, there’s plenty of ways to indulge in your creative side. The OCAC also offers community art programs that are open to all ages, as well as hosting regular visual and performing arts events. For the inner historian, learn about the fascinating heritage of the area in the Ocean City Historical Museum, explore the Ripley’s Believe It or Not exhibit on the boardwalk, the Historia Gardner’s Basin, the African American Heritage Museum, or the Edicott Reardon Family Museum.

Ocean City offers so much for all ages to enjoy, making it the perfect retirement location and a stimulating, enjoyable environment for seniors and their families to explore.

Stimulating for body and mind – Memory care in Cape May County

The Shores offers an ideal retirement home and community in South Jersey, and our programs include specialized services for seniors with dementia and Alzheimer’s conditions. Our memory care team is dedicated to ensuring all residents have access to onsite and offsite activities and events that are safe, appropriate, and fun, including regular outings, social gatherings, and much more. We work to help support seniors with cognitive health issues to stay active and engaged – and our wonderful position near the ocean helps us do just that!

For more information on our memory care services in South Jersey, or to find out more about how our assisted living community works, contact us today or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/theshores/

This blog was originally published https://umcommunities.org/theshores/blog/retire-at-the-beach/