Independent or Assisted Living?

 

Have you or your senior loved one considered moving into an independent living or assisted living community? It’s never an easy decision to make, but there comes a time when it’s the safest and wisest option for everyone involved. Nowadays, you have several choices regarding types of communities and the different levels of care they provide. You may be wondering which is the more appropriate choice: assisted living or independent living? Our team has highlighted the main advantages of both senior living options to give you or your loved one better insight before coming to a final decision. 

Overview Of Independent Living

Independent living communities are for seniors who require very little to no assistance. Older adults who are empty nesters and have retired often find that they want to be around people their own age, or that they’d like to be in closer proximity to activities and hobbies like golf, swimming, tennis, fitness centers, and other outdoor activities. 

Some independent living communities offer help with light cleaning from time to time, but for the most part, seniors who live in these communities are 100% independent.  They enjoy their freedom as they would living anywhere else, and they take advantage of on-site amenities like a clubhouse, activity room, or fitness center to spend time with friends and stay active. 

Overview Of Assisted Living 

Assisted living communities provide a range of support for older adults, including help with medications, bathing, dressing, preparing meals, grooming, getting to and from appointments, and much more. There is no one-size-fits-all way to describe assisted living because it’s customized to the individual, and many assisted living communities offer many different levels of care. This is an advantage that assisted living has over independent living – the care is there if and when you need it. 

Assisted living is an ideal option for people who have limited mobility, people with complex or chronic health conditions that require monitoring, or people who are recovering from an injury or an operation. 

Assessing Your Needs

In order to decide which level of care is the best for you or your loved one, answering the following questions can help you choose:

• Do you require help bathing and getting dressed?
• Do you have any complex or chronic health conditions?
• Do you have limited mobility?
• Are you on multiple medications and do you need to see a doctor on a regular basis?
• Do you need help cooking, preparing food, or eating?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, assisted living might be the best choice. 

UMC Allows You to Adjust Your Care As Your Needs Change

At UMC we understand that your needs will change as you get older, whether it’s due to an injury, an illness, or simply the limited mobility that can come with aging. This is why our communities offer different levels of specialized care for you or your loved one. Perhaps you’ll start off in independent living at UMC at Bristol Glen, then after a few years you’ll feel that assisted living is more appropriate for your medical and personal needs. The best part about making this change, is there’s no need to uproot yourself and move to a totally different location. With UMC, a continuum of care is available under one roof. 

If you have any questions about the different levels of senior living and what each one includes at UMC, please contact our team today: https://umcommunities.org

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/blog/levels-of-assisted-living/

Why Dementia Care At Home Can Be So Difficult

 

As dementia is a progressive disease, the initial stages can be quite manageable. As the disease inevitably advances, however, caring for your loved one at home can become increasingly difficult. Senior caregiving is a full-time commitment in itself and can become incredibly stressful especially if you are working a full-time job, have little experience with memory disorders, or if you are busy caring for your own family of little ones. In order to balance in-home care duties with your own life, you will need  a network of support. Here’s some of the challenges that in-home memory caregivers commonly face, and signs that it may be time to consider an alternative solution for your loved one with dementia.

• Safety and security – People with dementia can become frail, confused, and wander out of a safe space. Making the home more secure is the first challenge, and that can mean improving lighting, eliminating fall risks, and putting up pictures or clear signs to label where things are kept. You may also want to consider a wearable health monitor and GPS tracker for your loved one.

• Eating – As the disease progresses, caregivers need to encourage a healthy diet and watch for signs that swallowing and chewing is becoming more difficult. This can mean amending their diet to include smoothies and protein drinks, and monitoring eating more closely.

• Toileting – In later stages of this memory condition, your loved one may not be as aware of when they need to go to the toilet or they may forget where the bathroom is. Incontinence can be a challenge, as can an inability to remove clothing in time to relieve themselves.

• Aggression – Frustration, confusion, stress, and agitation can easily lead to aggressive behaviors, which are often upsetting and difficult for families to manage. Having a set routine, promoting healthy sleep and gentle exercise, and massage can help relax your loved one.

• Isolation – When your loved one has dementia, it is easy for you as a caregiver to become isolated as their care needs grow more demanding. Neglecting important relationships, feeling depressed, and lonely are common challenges for caregivers and can easily lead to burn out. Having time and space for self-care is critical for all caregivers, but especially for those people caring for people with dementia.

• Adaptability – While routine is an essential part of dementia care, it’s also important to be very flexible, which can be a big challenge. Caregivers need to be able to quickly pick up on changes in mood, physical health, and mental health to adapt their day and the environment to provide the right level of support. This is very intensive, especially as the condition advances and it becomes more difficult for your loved one to communicate with you.

• Awareness and education – Unless you have dementia caregiving experience, it is very challenging to manage on your own and learn as you go. Be sure to access all the resources in your network to manage your expectations of caregiving responsibilities, how the disease progresses, and tips on how to manage challenges. Local home health aides, support groups and medical resources can provide practical insight as well as a helping hand. 

• Planning for the future – When it comes to dementia, caregiving needs to be more than “one day at a time,” and caregivers need to constantly plan for the future. Asking yourself the difficult questions about what you can do and how you can support your loved one through the more advanced stages of dementia isn’t easy, but it is essential to helping you cope. It’s important to realize your personal limitations and know that help is always available from professionals. Having an in-home caregiver assist you not only helps you provide the best possible care but allows you to spend quality time with your loved one.

UMC HomeWorks Memory Care – In the Comfort of Home

Are you caring for a senior with dementia at home? We’re here and ready to help you face all the challenges ahead. 

UMC HomeWorks is a leading senior care program specializing in at-home care for elderly in New Jersey. In addition to assisting with daily tasks, errands and light housekeeping, our home health aides are also qualified to provide specialized assistance and skilled nursing care, including at-home memory care for seniors with cognitive health challenges like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Our Tapestries At Home program is founded not only on supporting the safety and physical health of seniors, but also on creating an enriching care environment that values each person’s dignity and quality of life.

If you would like to find out more about respite and full-time in-home memory care with UMC HomeWorks, please contact us today or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/homeworks/tapestries-memory-care-at-home/ 

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/homeworks/blog/why-dementia-care-at-home-can-be-so-difficult/

Caregiver Burnout – What It Is and What to Look Out For

 

“Caregiver” is a term used to describe someone who cares for the physical and mental health of another person. In the context of senior living and senior care, a caregiver can visit an older adult who lives alone once a week to check on them and perform some light chores, or they can be the full-time caretaker of a senior who has been incapacitated by a surgery, illness, or multiple chronic conditions. Caregiving responsibilities vary greatly based on the person they are caring for, but one thing remains true: caregivers are essential in helping older adults and adults with disabilities live with independence, dignity and a better quality of life. It is vital to recognize, however, that the ability to provide this critical type of care all depends on the state of the caregiver’s health. 

What Is Caregiver Burnout?

Caregiver burnout is when the caregiver becomes mentally, emotionally, and physically exhausted. Caregiving can be a very difficult and laborious job, especially for those who care for people who need around the clock assistance. Caregiver burnout can lead to much more serious things like anxiety, depression, and fatigue if the caregiver doesn’t take a break from time to time. 

Caregiver Burnout Signs to Look Out for:

• Changes in sleeping patterns
• Weight fluctuations
• Appetite changes
• Being moody and irritable when they’re usually positive and upbeat 
• A loss of interest in spending time with family and friends
• A loss of interest in hobbies and activities they once enjoyed 
• They seem more emotionally fraught than usual 
• An increase in drinking alcohol 
• Getting sick more frequently 

Ways To Help Avoid Caregiver Burnout 

Know your limits and be realistic about what you can and cannot handle. It’s not realistic that a caregiver will be able to take care of another person around the clock for days on end. We all need time to ourselves to rest and recharge. 

Join a caregiver network so you can form a support group of people who are going through the same experiences you are. Having people to talk to who understand can really help during stressful times.

Educate yourself about the health issues of the person you’re caring for. The better you understand what they’re experiencing, the better you’ll be able to care for them. For example, if you’re caring for an older adult with Alzheimer’s, learn more about the disease so you can better understand their adverse actions and behaviors. 

Alternate shifts with other caregivers you trust. You and you alone cannot be fully responsible for another person with no break. Caregivers should work on rotation to give each other some much-deserved time off. 

Don’t forget to take care of your own needs! This includes eating a healthy diet, sleeping well, engaging in hobbies and activities you enjoy outside of work, and staying connected to your family and friends. 

It Might be Time to Make The Move to a Senior Living Community

There comes a point when some seniors need a level of care that you’re simply unable to provide. This is especially true for older adults who have dementia or severe mobility issues. Senior living communities are designed to support and care for people who require increasings levels of care, and the on-site medical staff are there to ensure they remain safe and secure at all times. When your loved one’s medical status becomes too much for you to handle, it may be time to discuss making the move to a senior living community. 

If you have any questions about how to prevent caregiver burnout, or you’d like more information about transitioning your loved one to a senior living community in NJ, please contact our team today: https://umcommunities.org

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/blog/what-do-caregivers-do/

2022 Guide of Senior Scams to be Aware of

 

Did you know that in 2020, the FBI^[1] found that seniors lost almost $1 billion to scams, with 105,000 people over the age of 65 falling victims to crooks? As seniors continue to be targeted by scammers, associates from our independent lifestyle community in Cape May County have taken the time to compile some helpful tips to keep your loved ones safe. But before we dive into their advice, it helps to understand the three most common types of scams to look out for first.

Senior Scam #1: Identity theft. This generally takes 3 forms: pharming (legitimate-looking websites run by scammers that require someone to fill in personal information), phishing (legitimate-looking emails that trick someone into sending personal information), and smishing (text message versions of phishing).

Senior Scam #2: Tech support fraud. Although more seniors are using computers, smartphones, and digital platforms than ever before, there are still seniors who aren’t very tech-savvy. Fake websites and fraudulent contacts can trigger malware downloads or even fake virus and application alerts, often with a message with a contact number to resolve the issue. A scammer on the other end of the line then asks for remote access to their computer to ‘fix’ the problem. In the process, what they really do is steal sensitive data, request payment for their “service,” and then obtain personal credit card information.

Senior Scam #3: Online shopping fraud. Here, a scammer will contact a person to sell them fraudulent, fake, or non-existent products or scare the person by saying they haven’t paid for something and send them an invoice of demand. This has become especially prevalent as eCommerce has taken off more amongst seniors.

Tips to protect seniors from online scams

Luckily, there are some easy ways to help keep your mom or dad safe, or at least lower their risks of falling victim to a scam.

• First, tell them to never, ever share personal information with anyone over the phone, online, or via email. If they think it is legitimate, they should confirm it with you first. Scammers often make their demands time-sensitive and demanding, but they must never be afraid to wait before they act!
• Then, set up safeguards on their digital devices. This can include up-to-date antivirus software, VPNs, anti-malware software, pop-up/ad blockers, and 2-factor authentication. You can also ask their permission to be added to their bank account notifications and move larger savings to secure accounts separate from their credit card account.
• Teach them what to look for in scam messages. This can include how to hover over an email address to see how it’s spelled (usually there are misspellings or odd addresses, like a Gmail account using a bank’s name). They can also look for misspellings in messages, and learn not to open attachments or links in unusual or chain emails.
• If they are unsure about an email or text message’s legitimacy, ask them to always contact the company directly – not via phone numbers or links on the suspicious message. The company can always let your loved one know if there is really an issue, special offer, or legitimate request.

Comfortable, secure senior living at UMC at The Shores

UMC at The Shores is a secure community offering independent lifestyles with support in South Jersey. Our team is passionate about helping seniors live full and rewarding lives in a safe and welcoming environment. Our associates are all well-versed in the latest technology and can teach your senior loved one valuable tips so that they don’t fall victim to online scams. They are only a call away, should your loved one have any questions about a suspicious call, text, or email they received.

To find out more about senior living at The Shores in Cape May County, give us a call or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/theshores/

^[1] https://www.ic3.gov/Media/PDF/AnnualReport/2020_IC3ElderFraudReport.pdf

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/theshores/blog/2022-guide-of-senior-scams-to-be-aware-of/

If You’re Planning a Holiday Getaway, Respite Care at Pitman Can Help

 

The holidays are usually a time to get together with extended family. Baking cookies, hosting an extravagant holiday dinner, and exchanging presents with one another are some of the most common holiday traditions. However, the holidays can also be the best time to get away! What’s a better Christmas gift than going on vacation to experience a little peace and quiet? This is also a great opportunity to recharge, especially if you are the primary caregiver to your elderly parents. If you are planning a self-care trip for the holidays and are worried about who will watch over Mom or Dad, consider our respite care services in Gloucester County. Here we will discuss the top advantages of respite care at our independent lifestyle community in Pitman, NJ.

Compassionate respite care in Pitman, NJ

No matter how long your parents stay, all of our residents in respite care have direct access to hotel-like amenities, medical professionals, monthly activities, and group outings – just to name a few of the many services available. Your senior loved one can enjoy the comforts of home and professional, compassionate care during the holidays with amenities like:

• Personal assistance with ADLs (activities of daily living) including getting dressed for the day, medication management, and running errands.
• Fully furnished apartments with everything residents need to kick back and relax.
• Licensed nurses, therapists, and caregivers are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to fully monitor health status if needed
• Nutritious home-cooked meals that can easily be modified to accommodate low-carb, low-sugar, and low-fat preferences.
• Holiday related activities and special events to get into the spirit!
• Visitation is always encouraged from extended family members during the holiday season.

Why respite is even more necessary for full-time caregivers

Most senior caregivers have heard of or experienced the dreaded “caregiver burnout.” For those who may be unfamiliar, caregiver burnout refers to the complete physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion that can happen to a caregiver if they overexert their energy. It’s important to realize that while this is the most wonderful time of the year for most, the holidays tend to be a major catalyst for burnout. This is because full-time caregivers of seniors usually have their own children to prepare and provide for over the holiday season. It can be extremely stressful to balance the full-time care of an older adult with holiday-related tasks like buying gifts, hosting a dinner, or having extended family who lives out-of-town sleepovers until New Year’s Eve.

A vacation is not only encouraged for senior caregivers but can be especially necessary during the holidays. As the saying goes, you “can’t pour from an empty cup,” so taking the time for proper self-care, rest, and relaxation is the best way for full-time caregivers to do their job to the best of their ability. You will return in the New Year, refreshed and ready to provide your mom or dad with the most compassionate care.

Respite Care is Like an Assisted Living Tryout!

For many families, putting a loved one in respite care has the added benefit of allowing them to see if they like staying in a senior community with others of similar age and care needs. Indeed, we have found that a significant number of respite care residents ultimately choose to stay full-time in our community. Especially after they’ve had the chance to make new friends, discover new pastimes and relax knowing their care is monitored at all times. Before making any long-term commitments, we encourage you and your loved one to come to tour our senior community at Pitman. Our team of associates is standing by and ready to answer any questions you may have about assisted living in beautiful Pitman, New Jersey in the heart of Gloucester County.

For more information about respite care for seniors in Pitman NJ, please call us today or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/pitman/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/pitman/blog/if-youre-planning-a-holiday-getaway-respite-care-at-pitman-can-help/

Mental Health Awareness: 4 Ways to Improve Senior Well Being

 

World Mental Health Day falls on the tenth of this month and there’s no time like the present to draw awareness to senior mental health. In particular, seniors face mental health issues like anxiety, loneliness, and even depression more often. A lot of the time this is due to a lack of support, socialization, and activities in their current living situation. Fortunately, there are many ways that seniors can improve their mental well-being. We’ll start with this list compiled by our senior living associates from South Jersey.

#1. Spend more time with someone you love. Having something to look forward to is reason enough for seniors to get out of bed in the morning. Especially if that “something” includes someone they truly care about. If you see your senior loved one becoming a little more isolated, reach out and make plans with them, even if it’s just to go on an hour walk. Even better, make this a weekly tradition. It’s a great way to catch up and boost your senior loved one’s mental health.

#2. Become “one” with nature. Spending time in nature has been proven to strengthen mental health and even sharpen cognitive abilities. Being in nature improves your mood, memory, and stress level. Think about it, how many times has someone told you to take a beat and step outside when you’re stressing out? More times than we could count. Easy ways for seniors to spend more time in nature, include going on a scenic walk each day, taking up gardening or setting up bird feeders outside, and seeing what feathery friends come to visit!

#3. Learn something new or revisit an old pastime. One surefire way to lift your spirits is to spend more time doing something you actually love to do. It can be understandably intimidating to get back into a pastime you put on hold. You might hold yourself to a certain standard – however, it’s important to remember that this is for enjoyment only! Painting, playing an instrument or writing are all great outlets to tap into your creativity. Or you could always try something new – learning a new skill has been linked to a decreased risk of dementia in conjunction with boosting mental health.

#4. Play more games that challenge your brain. Did you know that puzzles and word games exercise both sides of the brain? The right side of the brain is responsible for creativity, while the left side controls logical and analytical thinking. Making it a point to exercise both sides of the brain on a weekly or even daily basis will help improve mental health and even short-term memory. Social connections also stimulate mental health boosts, which is just another great excuse to plan a weekly game night tradition with loved ones.

Seniors living happily in Collingswood, NJ

At UMC at Collingswood, our assisted living residents continue to live a full, independent, and happy life among people who share like-minded interests. We pride ourselves on fostering an environment in which residents can pursue their hobbies, while receiving the care they need. Both our associates and residents at Collingswood love to take part in “Movie Days,” weekly zumba sessions, art classes, and other fun activities that boost mental health and promote socialization within our community.

For more information about how we promote senior wellbeing at our community in Camden County, please call us today or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/collingswood/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/collingswood/blog/mental-health-awareness-4-ways-to-improve-senior-well-being/

Seniors, Don’t Ignore Your Physical Pain

 

Most of us accept that aches and pains are a normal part of aging. Arthritis, for example, is a very common condition among independent seniors that causes pain if it isn’t managed correctly. It’s one thing to sleep “wrong” one night and have a little neck pain for the first hour of the day, but it’s a whole other thing to have unusual symptoms that last or are recurring. Our recommendation is to not wave off any symptoms you’ve never experienced before. If you’re not sure what’s unusual or not, here are some symptoms all seniors need to be aware of, as they can be a sign of a serious health issue.

Pain and symptoms seniors should not ignore

1. Shortness of breath. If you feel pressure in your chest, have difficulty catching your breath, tightness in your lungs, or dizziness, it’s nothing you should ignore. These can be symptoms of a partial or complete blockage in your coronary artery, which can cause a heart attack. For women, this combined with flu-like symptoms (even over a few days) can even be a sign of a heart attack in progress. It could also be a sign of asthma, fluid around the heart, pneumonia, fluid around the lungs, or lung disease, so have your doctor check you out as soon as possible.
2. Post-menopausal bleeding. Having bleeding after menopause is a symptom that you should see your gynecologist about. It may not be anything to worry about, but it could also be a symptom of certain gynecological cancers.
3. Blood in your stool. If you see traces of blood in your stool or your stool appears black, it’s time for a check-up. While some medications and supplements can change your stool color (for example, Pepto-Bismol can darken your stool), it’s best to have a doctor make sure it’s not blood. Blood in your stool can indicate colorectal cancer, bleeding in your gastrointestinal tract, an ulcer, hemorrhoids, or diverticulitis.
4. Skin lesions. Risks of skin cancer increase as we age, so painful or unusual patches of skin or moles should be checked out. Often, these lesions appear as flat lesions, brown scar-like lesions, crusty lesions, or lesions with uneven shapes with blue, white, red, or dark brown specks. They may also appear as red nodules or waxy bumps. Skin cancer is very treatable when caught early, so it’s worth the doctor’s visit.
5. Painful breast tissue. If your breast tissue feels swollen, painful, or has a lump, it’s definitely time to see the doctor. These are common signs of breast cancer, which is treatable when detected early. Although it predominantly affects women, men can have breast cancer too, so don’t ignore your discomfort if you notice anything unusual. Although many lumps are benign, it’s always beneficial to have a doctor examine you.
6. Lower back pain and fever. If you have pain around your hips on one or both sides, especially if you also have a fever or feel nauseous, it could be a sign of a kidney infection. These are treatable but can be life-threatening or cause lasting kidney damage if you don’t get the right treatment quickly, especially if you have diabetes. These symptoms can also be a sign of a urinary tract infection, a weakened immune system, or a urinary tract blockage.
7. Calf or thigh pain. Are you feeling a throbbing or cramping pain in one of your calf or thigh muscles? This could be deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a clot in your leg. Other symptoms include reddened, hot-feeling skin where the pain is located and swollen veins. Seniors are at risk for DVT if they sit for a long time, have cancer or heart failure, have varicose veins, or are dehydrated. This is a potentially life-threatening health condition, so it’s important to get early treatment. This usually includes an anticoagulant to thin the blood, or a surgeon may have to remove the clot if it doesn’t respond to the medication.
8. Pain in your big toe. Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals and it causes searing pain in joints, most commonly first occurring in the big toe. One of the most common risk factors is a diet of red meat, alcohol, and high-fructose corn syrup products, but it can happen to anyone. It’s very painful, but can be treated by your doctor with medication. Without treatment, you’re put at high risk for kidney stones and kidney failure, so it’s essential to get treatment.

Bristol Glen is a leading assisted living community in Sussex County, NJ. We offer a beautiful and welcoming space for seniors who need additional care and assistance to live a full and abundant life. Our long-term care team is compassionate, fully trained, and ready to assist seniors with their health, including managing dementia, diabetes, and other medical conditions.

For more information on UMC at Bristol Glen and how we can effectively manage chronic health conditions in seniors, please contact us today or visit our website at:https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/blog/seniors-dont-ignore-your-physical-pain/

Preserve your Quality of Life as you Age

 

You’ve probably heard the expression that regular maintenance is the best type of prevention, and while it’s usually said in reference to things like cars or plumbing systems, it’s actually true for people as well. No matter what age you are, it’s never too late to start looking after your health, Our bodies change a lot as we get older, and prevention is always the best way to enhance and preserve your quality of life.

These are some of the most common health challenges that seniors face today, with steps you can take to help you take control of your health and feel ten times better!

Address Dental Issues

Oral health is a major concern for people of all ages, but as we get older, our teeth and gums require a bit of extra care.  Aging causes our mouths to become dryer, more prone to cavities, and our bones often weaken, which opens the door for numerous oral health concerns like periodontitis, a potentially serious bacterial infection that affects the gums and bones.

If you don’t already, we recommend having regular dental check-ups and cleanings every six months. Your dentist can check for early signs of gingivitis and other common oral health concerns for seniors. If there is a problem, you can catch it and treat it before it seriously impacts your health. 

Take Extra Precautions During Cold & Flu Season

Many people think having the flu is no big deal, you simply stay in bed for a few days until it passes. But for older adults whose immune systems aren’t as strong, catching the flu can lead to more serious illnesses and infections like pneumonia. As we age, our body’s ability to fight off common things like the flu gets weaker – so seniors become particularly vulnerable to colds and the flu. 

Keeping your immune system strong with regular exercise, vitamins, and healthy food is important for your quality of life, especially during cold and flu season. We also recommend getting an annual flu shot, and if you haven’t already, speak with your doctor about getting the pneumonia vaccine.

Avoid Unnecessary Weight Gain 

It makes sense that most of us gain weight as we age. We aren’t as active as we once were, our mobility changes, and our metabolism tends to slow down. Getting older doesn’t mean that exercise is no longer an option, though. There are many different types of exercise you can enjoy depending on your mobility: swimming, walking, dancing, stretching, light strength training, and much more. Perhaps you can join your local gym, many of which offer senior discounts. Or if you already live in an active senior community, ask an activities director on site about what kind of classes they offer. 

Manage Arthritis Pain 

Arthritis is incredibly common among people 65 years old and up. Itcan make everyday activities painful and difficult, leading seniors to become sedentary to avoid uncomfortable flare-ups. But arthritis doesn’t have to get in the way of leading an active life! While there is no cure for the condition, you can work with your doctor to develop a personalized pain management plan that will allow you to stay active well into your retirement years. 

If you have any questions about how to enhance your quality of life, or if you’d like more information about active senior living communities in NJ, please contact our team today: https://umcommunities.org

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

In-Home Care Costs: What’s Included?

 

Many seniors would prefer to live at home, surrounded by familiar spaces, neighborhoods, friends, and family. As care or assistance needs increase, the cost can increase as well.  Here’s a helpful breakdown of in-home care costs from a leading New Jersey senior care agency.

A General Overview of In-Home Care Costs

Typically, in-home care ranges from $15 to $35 per hour, with the average cost of these services in New Jersey coming in at $26 per hour. This means that 40 hours a week will cost approximately $1040 ($4160). Assisted living, on the other hand, costs $6,650 per month. 

While this immediately shows that assisted living tends to be more expensive than in-home care, the real savings are in your ability to tailor the services you or your loved one receives, ensuring that you only pay for the care required.

How In-Home Care Costs Are Calculated

There are several different ways that an agency may structure the costs of their services, including:

• Hourly rates – This is the most flexible and most affordable option. It’s a great choice for seniors who are largely independent, but still need some assistance at home on a weekly basis. For most agencies, 2-4 hours a day are the required minimum in order to support staff, which would come to about $1560-$3120 per month (depending on how many days a week are opted for care).
• Daily rates – Per day in-home care is best for seniors who need more intensive help or care on a daily basis. The cost is built around the type of home care services required (more specialized services tend to cost more) and break time for caregivers. This averages out at $200 – $300 per day.
• Overnight rates – Typically, overnight rates are lower than daily rates because the caregiving and assistance clients require is not as intensive. These services are used for seniors with dementia conditions who may become confused, people recovering from illness or hospitalization that need monitoring and assistance, and anyone who needs assistance for toileting, etc. On average, this service costs $120-$200 per night and covers 10-12 hours.

How To Make Living At Home Easier For Your Senior Parents

As part of the United Methodist Communities network, the HomeWorks program is designed to provide New Jersey seniors with expert in-home care and companionship at affordable rates. Our services are customized to each client and are provided by experienced, compassionate certified home health aides who have a passion for working with seniors. 

 

To find out more about in-home care costs from UMC HomeWorks, please contact us today or visit our website at https://umcommunities.org/homeworks/cost-of-home-care-for-elderly/  

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/blog/in-home-care-costs-whats-included/

How To Help Seniors Sleep Better

 

Sleep is vital to our health, especially as we get older. It’s normal to experience changes and disruptions to your sleeping pattern at different phases of your life, but one thing remains true: getting adequate sleep is important for your mental, physical, and emotional health. 

Older adults may notice that they aren’t sleeping as deeply or for as long as they used to in earlier stages of their lives. If you or your senior loved one is experiencing sleeping problems, there are several ways to get back on track to being well-rested. Here are some top tips from our assisted living team at UMC:

Senior Sleep Tip #1: Stick To A Routine

We are all creatures of habit, and most of us really thrive when we stick to a routine. Bedtime routines are especially important because they help prepare your mind and your body for a good night’s rest. We recommend going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends. Other components of a healthy night-time routine include not using phones or iPads in bed, using blackout curtains to block out any light, using earplugs to eliminate noise, and practicing deep breathing while getting ready for bed.

Senior Sleep Tip #2: Take A Nice, Warm Bath 

A nightly warm bath can be a great part of a healthy bedtime routine. It’s one way to unwind after a long day, and it helps to put your body into a state of relaxation. Some people enjoy playing relaxing music and lighting their favorite scented candle to really complete the experience. If you’ve had a particularly active day, you can even add a little bit of Epsom Salt to your bathwater to soothe your tired muscles. 

Senior Sleep Tip #3: Don’t Drink Fluids At Night

If your loved one wakes up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom, it can often be difficult for them to get back to sleep. Encourage them to use the bathroom as part of their “getting ready for bed” routine, and set a cut-off in the evening for drinking liquids. For example, if your loved one goes to bed at 10pm, they should stop drinking liquids at around 8:30pm. 

Senior Sleep Tip #4: No Caffeine After Noon

Drinking caffeine too late in the day can keep anyone awake at night, especially for those who are more sensitive to its effects. We recommend only consuming caffeine in the morning to encourage healthy sleeping habits and to ensure you or your loved one isn’t lying awake when bedtime rolls around. For those who are accustomed to drinking coffee and tea all day long, decaf is a great option after 12:00pm.

Senior Sleep Tip #5: Keep The Room At A Comfortable Temperature

A room that’s too hot or too cold can have a major impact on how well you sleep. While everyone has their own personal preference, usually depending on the climate you live in, finding the ideal room temperature is essential to quality sleep. If your loved one is waking up sweating in the middle of the night, consider getting them a lighter, thinner blanket or using a ceiling fan. If they’re waking up feeling cold, invest in a warmer comforter and check that there aren’t any leaks in their bedroom windows where the cold, outside air could be getting in. 

If you have any questions about how to help your senior loved one get better sleep, or about any of our senior living communities, please contact us today: https://umcommunities.org

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/blog/help-seniors/

Tapestries Memory Care: What Makes UMC at The Shores Different

 

If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia, you may be looking into professional memory care that supports these conditions. One option is Tapestries Memory Care at UMC The Shores. This program focuses on understanding the complexity of each individual and empowering people rather than just treating their symptoms. The five principles guiding Tapestries Memory Care are to provide comfort, to know and understand the person in care, to anticipate their needs, to treat the person rather than the condition, and to empower our memory care specialists to provide the highest standard of care. Here’s more of what makes our service stand out from the crowd:

Care that focuses on the individual

Individual people are far more complex and unique than their health condition, and every person in our care is treated and assisted based on their needs. For example, rather than forcing a routine, we allow people to sleep when they are tired, offer activities when they are alert, find meals they enjoy, and set meal times based on when they like to eat, all while managing their symptoms accordingly. No one falls into a general “one-size-fits all” category – instead, care is tailored to what they require and prefer, so your loved one can self-direct their care. We understand that every senior values their independence, and would like to help them retain it – in whatever way possible.

Abundant, certified staff-to-person ratio

The Tapestries Memory Care team includes LETS (Life Enrichment Team Specialists) that are available to Tapestries residents 24-hours a day, 7 days a week. Each specialist has been specifically trained to care for people with neurocognitive disorders and related dementias, with extensive and ongoing training. We ensure a high staff-to-person ratio, making sure that each person has access to a Life Enrichment Team Specialist whenever they require.

Customized environment

The Tapestries Memory Care neighborhood is designed to be home-like, comfortable, and suitable for people with dementia conditions. It’s customized beyond what most memory care services offer, with common open spaces to congregate, large activity areas for arts and crafts, and one-bedroom, dementia-safe apartments for each resident. By combining personalized individual spaces with secure residential common areas and gardens, people can find an easy balance between private time and socializing. This homey atmosphere also ensures that people in care have certified care providers on hand at all times, with the director’s office and consultation rooms included in the space. This creates a wonderful environment where care and medical needs are met while giving residents the feeling of being in a welcoming ‘normal’ home.

Family support

Let’s not forget the effect dementia has on an entire family. As part of our holistic approach to care, we do all we can to support families as the health needs of their loved ones progress. We understand how mentally, physically, and emotionally challenging this process is for everyone involved, and work to provide you with spiritual support and mindset counseling.

Tapestries Memory Care at The Shores isn’t your average memory care program. With a core philosophy, team, and environment that creates exceptional, person-driven care for people with dementia and their loved ones, we work to set the standard for what care should be.

To find out more about our specialized Alzheimer’s and dementia support, please contact us today or visit our website at:  https://umcommunities.org/theshores/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/theshores/blog/tapestries-memory-care-what-makes-umc-at-the-shores-different/

3 Facts About Memory Care You Didn’t Know

 

What makes memory care different from assisted living? Both services are very similar in the sense that they are designed to enhance seniors’ quality of living in a community. There are, however, differences that are pretty significant as seniors with memory loss conditions require more comprehensive care. Our Tapestries® memory care team in Pitman, NJ has compiled the three major differences between the two senior care services. Read on and you may just be surprised to learn something new!

Fact #1: Memory care associates are specially trained.

Seniors struggling with dementia experience stress differently than those without dementia. This condition changes the brain’s ability to process everyday happenings, so it’s very important that seniors with dementia are able to relieve stress effectively each and every day. Caregivers to those with memory loss conditions have to familiarize themselves with effective stress-relievers, since they may differ greatly from what works for seniors without dementia.

In our Tapestries memory care neighborhood, Life Enrichment Team Specialists (LETS) are well versed in the latest dementia training, including many different methods that help residents alleviate stress. Some strategies may include having the resident listen to music from their era, engage in activities of movement that require their full attention, or put them in a social situation. Seniors with advanced dementia may become confused and disoriented, causing loud outbursts or inappropriate physical movement. These moments must be addressed but handled gently, and with infinite patience. In this way, our team prevents your loved ones from hurting themselves or others until they return to a calmer state.

Fact #2: Our Memory care apartments are dementia-safe.

Slightly different than our apartments in assisted living, apartments in the Tapestries Memory Care neighborhood are designed to be completely dementia-safe and easier for residents to navigate. Apartments do not have kitchens that could cause injury – for example, if your loved one was to leave the stove on. All memory care apartments are also located within the same wing of the building so that it is much easier for these residents to convene in safe, common areas and for specially trained staff to monitor them.

Fact #3: Care is dependent on the person – it’s not one-size-fits-all.

Understandably, seniors with dementia require more support than those who are more independent. While our community offers assisted living residents assistance with ADLs (activities of daily living), meal plans, and access to social activities, memory care is more intensive. Our specially trained memory care team is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for those in the Tapestries neighborhood. They also fully understand the importance of having your loved one with dementia engage in a routine that makes sense to them. This core philosophy of our program encourages each resident to direct their own schedule. Since our team is always available, residents can eat when hungry, and sleep when tired – they don’t have to follow the assisted living dining schedule.

Dementia support for seniors in Gloucester County

At UMC at Pitman, our Tapestries® memory care neighborhood has a welcoming, dementia-safe apartments where seniors can enjoy their hobbies, release their tension, and have meaningful and engaging experiences every day. Residents make their own choices and are able to direct their schedule and life at Pitman. With our Life Enrichment Team Specialists on site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, we can ensure your loved one is safe, secure, and well taken care of in our specialty neighborhood.

If your loved one is showing early signs of dementia and you are having difficulty caring for them, please call us to find out whether a move to a dedicated memory care neighborhood is the right choice. To learn more about professional memory care in Gloucester County, please visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/pitman/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/pitman/blog/3-facts-about-memory-care-you-didnt-know/

Breast Cancer Risks for Senior Women

 

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, an important time to shed light on the risks senior women face when it comes to this invasive form of cancer. Did you know it’s the second most common type of cancer among women? And that women over the age of 70 are at the highest risk of developing breast cancer? Our long-term care team has compiled a list of breast cancer risks for older women and different ways to lower those risks.

Genetic and Lifestyle Risk Factors of Breast Cancer

Risk factors for breast cancer can be categorized in two ways: Genetic and Lifestyle. Genetic risk factors are ones you can’t change because they have to do with your gender, age, race, and family history. On the other hand, lifestyle risk factors can be changed because you can always change your habits and the environment you choose to be in. Here are some examples of each risk type, as well as some ways to lower your risk (if possible):

Genetic Risk Factors:

• This is one of the most significant risk factors because 2 out of 3 women diagnosed with an invasive form of breast cancer receive their diagnosis after the age of 55. While you can’t change your age, you can change how often you screen for breast cancer. Early detection is key. According to the American Cancer Society, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99% when breast cancer is found and diagnosed in the early stages. Some ways you can be proactive in detecting breast cancer early is through monthly self-checks and scheduling regular mammograms.
• Gender and Race. Statistically, women are 100 times more likely to develop breast cancer than men – and Caucasian women in the particular contract it more than women of other races.
• Family History. If your parents or siblings have been diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer, your risk of contracting breast cancer in the future is higher.
• Menstrual and Reproductive History. Whether or not you have given birth or have taken birth control pills affects your risk level. For example, having your first child at an older age increases your risk. Not giving birth at all also increases your risk. The age at which you had your first menstruation, as well as the age you entered menopause also affects your chances of contracting this form of cancer.
• Gene Mutations. Mutations in certain genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, put you at a higher risk for breast cancer. It’s important to do genetic testing to find out if you have this gene mutation, as it can be passed onto your children.
• Dense Breast Tissue. Having breast tissue that is denser makes it harder to detect lumps. If you are planning to have a mammogram done soon, make sure to ask your doctor to disclose whether or not you have denser breast tissue. This will help you to be more proactive in checking for breast cancer.

Lifestyle Risk Factors:

• Little to No Exercise. A more sedentary lifestyle puts you at a greater risk of developing breast cancer. Fortunately, women who prioritize working out on a regular basis are able to decrease their chances by up to 20%! If you are currently residing in an independent living community, make sure to ask a director onsite about weekly exercise classes or other physical activities like nature walks.
• Overconsumption of Alcohol. To be frank, the more alcohol you consume, the higher the risk. Senior women who have 2-3 drinks per day have increased their risk by approximately 20%. Cutting back or cutting alcohol out of your diet completely will reduce the risk. Try to replace the drink with something that is equally exciting for you to drink, like a nice hot cup of coffee or specialty tea.
• Eating Unhealthily. Senior women who have a diet that consists of a lot of saturated fats and little to no fruits and vegetables are at a higher risk. One way to improve your diet is to opt for meal preparation or dining services in your assisted living community. Chefs in the senior living realm are used to making modifications to recipes in order to satisfy low carb, low fat, and low sugar preferences.

Long term care for seniors in Camden County

At UMC at Collingswood, a medical professional is available on-site 24/7 in case of emergency, and to closely monitor and make modifications to treatment plans as needed, or to refer residents to qualified medical specialists.

Further good news is that if you live at UMC at Collingswood and your needs increase, you don’t have to move. Our community is equipped to deal with almost anything in our long-term care neighbourhoods, including post-operative wounds, stroke, injuries, diabetes, certain types of cancers, and more. Whatever medical condition your senior loved one has, the long-term care team in Collingswood is prepared to treat them with the utmost attention, compassion, and respect for their quality of life.

To find out more about long-term care 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/breast-cancer-risks-for-senior-women/

The Difference Between In-Home Care and Assisted Living

 

Many children with senior parents struggle with deciding between getting their loved ones in-home care or moving them into an assisted living community that provides a continuum of care. Before making a final decision, it’s important to look at the pros and cons of each option to find the care that suits mom or dad – and you – the best.

What is assisted living?

An assisted living community is a space or several spaces, that caters to seniors who need help with ADLs (Activities of Daily Living) such as getting dressed for the day, managing daily medications, and meal preparation. Every community is different in terms of the lifestyle they offer and the care they provide, so it’s important to visit some well-known providers in your area to get a feel for what the assisted living community will offer.

Advantages of assisted living

The best-assisted living communities can accommodate adults with a wide range of needs, from retirees who simply don’t want the hassle of maintaining a house anymore to seniors with complex health conditions or limited mobility. While your parents would be moving out of their home, assisted living can offer a very rich community experience with a wide range of amenities like dining spaces, landscaped gardens, salons, fitness centers, activity clubs, and seasonal events.

The biggest advantage of this type of living is that it is very secure and gives great peace of mind. If your parents travel, their home is safe and looked after, and all maintenance and security are taken care of. If they become less mobile, their home is already geared up to accommodate wheelchairs and prevent falls. If their care needs change, services can be instantly stepped up to accommodate these needs. If your parent develops a memory condition, there is a specialized support program in place that includes around-the-clock care.

And, most importantly, the best-assisted living communities with a continuum of care also ensure that your parents get to age in place – that they won’t be separated or need to move to a nursing home.

Disadvantages of assisted living

There are some potential drawbacks to moving into an assisted living community that you should also consider. For one, every community is different, so it can take time to find the right fit for your parents. Another potential issue is that your parents will have to physically move from their home. Moving can always be a challenging process to manage, and relocating could mean your loved ones will be further away from friends and family. However, a community with a welcoming team of staff and a vibrant social calendar will help make this transition much easier for them. Remember, the community you help them select needs to be a place where they could see themselves really loving and calling “home.”

What is in-home care?

This is a flexible senior care service where a qualified caregiver provides assistance to your parents in their own home. It’s a great alternative to assisted living if your parents are really adamant about not moving.

Advantages of in-home care

The main advantage is that your parents don’t have to move from their current home. This is significant for people who are very attached to their home, who are a strong part of their community, who have family and friends nearby, and who have a home that is relatively easy to manage.

In addition, care services can be supplied on an as-needed basis and tailored to your parent’s requirements, often making the service more affordable in some ways than assisted living. The best senior home care agencies supply a wide range of assistance including meal preparation, companionship, running errands, skilled nursing, overnight care, medication management, and assistance with grooming, bathing, and dressing. Many agencies also provide in-home care for elderly people with dementia conditions, seniors who are recovering from surgery or illness, or those who require palliative care.

In-homecare can also be provided to assist you in caring for your parents yourself. For example, if you need someone to assist your parents while you’re at work, while you are away on holiday, or for any other reason, they can step in and give you respite.

Disadvantages of in-home care for seniors

There are some drawbacks to this service depending on your parent’s needs and environment. For example, you may have to fall-proof their home to help prevent injuries. Another thing to consider is that unless you have 24-hour in-home care, your loved one may need you or other family members to step in to provide caregiving and assistance.

It’s also important to draw up a spreadsheet on the costs of staying at home. For example, their home may still require mortgage payments in addition to repair and maintenance costs that may make it more expensive to receive in-home care than to sell the house and move to an assisted living community.

Finally, while in-home care providers are great companions as well as caregivers, a community can offer more in terms of friendships, social events, and activities. This is especially important if your parents live in an isolated area, are far away from friends and family, or are worried about them becoming socially withdrawn.

To find out more about independent-style assisted living in NJ, contact the team at United Methodist Communities! We run a beautiful, world-class assisted living community in rural Sussex County, and we’re happy to help your loved one start this journey. Please contact us today or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/blog/the-difference-between-in-home-care-and-assisted-living/