Try These 5 Enjoyable Activities for Dementia Patients

Everyone has the need to connect with other human beings, which is what makes our relationships so important. Dementia patients have the same need to connect, but this condition can make it more challenging to do so.

Here are some great activities recommended by the team at our  Tapestries Memory Care, that can help you bond with your loved one:

1. Photo albums. While short-term memory does deteriorate with these conditions, long-term memories remain strong and particularly powerful. Looking through photo albums together is a great way to share memories and even learn new things about your loved one, so take one from your own childhood or theirs when you visit.
2. Memory packages. Another way to trigger memories and share stories is through special memory packages. Scent is particularly well-connected to our memories. Favorite perfumes and aftershaves, cookies and treats, and even clothes, help form a strong connection. You can also incorporate this into events, for example with a holiday season package of gingerbread, pine, candy canes, decorations and cards.
3. Read together. Since it may be difficult for your loved one to focus on the task of reading for themselves, pick books they enjoy and spend an hour reading out a chapter to them. This works particularly well if you use a calm and slow tone, as it provides stimulation and helps concentration.
4. Favorite entertainment. Again, this is best when it connects with your loved one’s past. A playlist of their favorite songs from growing up, the TV show they loved when they were younger or much-loved musicals can trigger a strong response. It’s easy to find a lot of these series, movies and songs on streaming services.
5. Nature visits. A slow walk to look at the spring flowers, a drive through town to look at the snow and Christmas lights, or a visit with therapy animals all provide sensory stimulation and great enjoyment. This is also a good opportunity to invite along the grandkids!

Tapestries-Memory Care at The Jersey Shore

United Methodist Communities is no stranger to the care and treatment for adults with Alzheimer’s and Dementia diagnoses. In fact, in November of 2018, United Methodist Communities opened Tapestries-Memory Care at the Shores in Ocean City New Jersey. This specialized facility is designed for the unique concerns  and caregiving of those with all stages of dementia. It offers apartment style, supervised living in a beautiful Jersey Shore setting.

In October 2018, Tapestries became Comfort Matters® accredited. Internationally recognized, Comfort Matters® is a philosophy, care practice and an evidence-based program which offers holistic and integrated approaches to improve the quality of care and quality of life for persons experiencing Alzheimer’s and other dementias. United Methodist Communities at The Shores is one of the few facilities in the state of New Jersey to achieve the prestigious Comfort Matters® Accreditation.

To find out more about our Tapestries-Memory Care at The Shores, please visit our website at https://theshores.umcommunities.org and book your visit today.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/try-these-5-enjoyable-activities-for-dementia-patients/

5 Tips for Making Festive Family Gatherings Comfortable for Elderly Loved Ones

Hosting a family gathering is one of the best parts of the festive season and it’s a wonderful opportunity to get everyone together, young and old. When you’re hosting a family event and you’re inviting an elderly loved one, there are a few things you can do to make them feel extra welcome and comfortable.

Here are some tips from our senior home care services team:

1. Check your home for tripping hazards. Falls are the number one risk to senior health, so it’s important to take a look around your home and minimize any fall risks before their visit. This includes making sure that area rugs are taped down and have non-slip backing (or are removed).
   Allow for uncluttered floor space with wide pathways for traffic. Rearrange furniture to make movement easy (especially for walkers and walking sticks). This doesn’t have to apply to your whole home, just the entertainment area and bathroom.
2. Make them part of the preparation. Simple tasks will keep your loved one engaged and part of the activities, so set aside some tasks that they may enjoy — it’s also nice to feel useful and wanted! Folding napkins, rolling dough, arranging flowers or placing centerpieces are all fun and safe.
3. Include some favorites. Does your loved one have a favorite festive activity, love a certain Christmas album or holiday food? Including it in your family event is a great way to show them that you care and have considered them on this special day.
4. Keep noise reasonable. While noise is a part of any family event, it can be difficult for seniors with hearing problems or dementia to fully enjoy the festivities. You can be merry, but remember to keep music volume down low and sit your loved one away from speakers and close to people they like to talk to.
5. Take time over arrangements. When planning your event, talk to your loved one about who will be there and what you have planned, so that they can prepare themselves. Help them to select a comfortable holiday-appropriate outfit.
   Ensure that someone arrives early to pick them up from their home, and make sure there is safe transport back home or an established plan to stay overnight. Older adults take a little more time to process plans, so the more time to prepare, the better!

Senior Homecare Services – Companionship, Quality of Life and Independent Life Through Home Health Aide Services in New Jersey 

At United Methodist Communities in New Jersey, we understand the challenges of providing expert medical care and companionship to seniors while encouraging a full and independent life, which is why we’ve developed HomeWorks.

Through this program, trained and highly experienced staff can assist seniors and their families through comprehensive at homecare for the elderly. Each care plan is customized around the client’s exact needs, filling in with necessary assistance while allowing your loved one to remain in the comfort of their home.

For more information on our senior homecare services and home health aide services in New Jersey, please contact us today or visit our website at https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/senior-care-new-jersey/

Original content posted on https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/5-tips-for-making-festive-family-gatherings-comfortable-for-elderly-loved-ones/

Will Medicaid and/or Medicare Pay for Assisted Living? What if You Have No Money?

It’s no secret that growing older is getting more and more expensive, and a leading concern of seniors and their loved ones is how to pay for assisted living. Here are some insights from the team at our assisted living community in Sussex County, New Jersey, into whether or not Medicare or Medicaid can help make quality senior care more affordable.

Medicare – The Short-Term Care Support Option 

Medicare is national, government-funded health insurance plan that all Americans can utilize after their 65^th birthday. It is available in several plans including Part A, Part B and Advantage, all offering different levels of coverage. However, it is designed to provide short-term support to seniors, such as a limited time stay in rehab after hospitalization or to cover tests, x-rays or medication prescribed by medical practitioners. As a result, it is not usually possible to use Medicare to cover assisted living, long-term nursing care, residential long-term care or hospice care.

Medicaid – Financial Support for Long-Term Care and Assisted Living 

Medicaid is funded in part by the federal government and in part by the state, so coverage is different from one state to another. It is an insurance program focused on providing financial coverage for long-term care and designed for low income families, but with New Jersey ranking as one of the most expensive states in the USA for assisted living, many families rely on Medicaid for essential financial support.

The program has expanded to try accommodating senior needs more effectively, and offers several options for seniors who meet the eligibility criteria.
These criteria includes the following:

• You must be a USA citizen and resident of New Jersey.
• You must be 65-years or older and must meet medical requirements for the level of care you are requesting.
• As an income cap state, your income must be $2,250 or lower per month.

Regarding income caps, it’s advisable that you speak to a qualified elder law attorney as soon as possible to develop a strategy for your assets and income. Often, a “spend-down” strategy can be put in place to ensure that care is paid for through your current assets until eligibility criteria are met. There are also strategies that can help when a spouse needs assisted living, but their partner is still independent.

Speak to the Team at Our CCRC in Sussex County, New Jersey 

Bristol Glen is a CCRC and assisted living community based in Sussex County that aims to provide seniors with comfortable, serviced living arrangements that free up your time to enjoy life. Founded on a philosophy of aging in place, our continuing care retirement community residents enjoy a less restrictive care model in which they do not have to move from their residential apartment to access additional services as their needs change.

Contact us to find out more about our CCRC and our assisted living in Sussex County, New Jersey, please visit our website at https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/ and book your visit today.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/will-medicaid-and-or-medicare-pay-for-assisted-living-what-if-you-have-no-money/

How is Alzheimer’s Disease Diagnosed?

Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth leading cause of death in the USA, with 5.7 million Americans living with the condition according to the latest Alzheimer’s Association research. Early and accurate diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease is critical to managing the health of a patient and could save up to $7.9 trillion in medical care and costs.

So, how is this disease diagnosed? Here are some insights from the experts at Tapestries Memory Care, UMC’s dedicated center of excellence for individuals suffering from all stages of Alzheimers and Dementia.

6 Early Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease 

The first step in reaching an accurate diagnosis is for seniors and their families to be aware of the early symptoms of the condition, and to approach their medical practitioner with their concerns if the following is noticed:

1. Difficulty remembering events.
2. Social withdrawal, changes in mood and depression.
3. Visual or spatial difficulties, misplacing items, and difficulty driving.
4. Confusion regarding where they are, why they are in a specific location, or the passage of time.
5. Difficulty finding the correct word or phrase to express themselves.
6. Inability or difficulty in finishing daily tasks, solving problems, or making plans.

How Doctors Reach a Diagnosis for Alzheimer’s Disease 

This is a fairly complex process, as the doctor has to work through various tests and data to ensure an accurate diagnosis. This is because these symptoms may be the result of other medical conditions.
A doctor, neurologist or geriatrician will evaluate the patient’s:

• Medical history, medication history and the symptoms being experienced. This is especially important if there is a family history of Alzheimer’s or dementia conditions.
• Mood and personality changes, if any.
• Memory and thinking abilities.
• Difficulties in daily life and routines, if any.
• Causes of the symptoms to see if they are linked to other conditions, medication interactions and other issues.

The doctor may then order tests to rule out other conditions or health issues, brain-imaging tests or even memory testing. A physical health examination will also be performed.

It’s understandable that people are reluctant to see their doctor if they experience worrying symptoms, but in reality, an early diagnosis gives you the best chance to manage your condition. It is also important to rule out other health conditions with similar symptoms, many of which are very treatable (including vitamin B-12 deficiencies and thyroid disorders) to ensure you get the right treatment.

Tapestries-Memory Care at The Jersey Shore

United Methodist Communities is no stranger to the care and treatment for adults with Alzheimer’s and Dementia diagnoses. In fact, in November of 2018, United Methodist Communities opened Tapestries-Memory Care at the Shores in Ocean City New Jersey. This specialized facility is designed for the unique concerns  and caregiving of those with all stages of dementia.

In October 2018, Tapestries became Comfort Matters® accredited. Internationally recognized, Comfort Matters® is a philosophy, care practice and an evidence-based program which offers holistic and integrated approaches to improve the quality of care and quality of life for persons experiencing Alzheimer’s and other dementias. United Methodist Communities at The Shores is one of the few facilities in the state of New Jersey to acheive the prestigious Comfort Matters® Accreditation.

To find out more about our Tapestries-Memory Care at The Shores, please visit our website athttps://theshores.umcommunities.org and book your visit today.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/how-is-alzheimers-disease-diagnosed/

A Day in the Life of a Home Health Aide

The in-home senior care industry is booming and many people looking for rewarding careers in caregiving are considering becoming home health aides. But what is this role really all about? What could you expect on a typical day? Is it the right fit for you? Our senior independent home care specialists offer some insight that may help you determine the answers.

Typical Duties as a In Home Senior Care Provider 

As a home health aide for seniors, you’ll be assisting older adults with a wide range of daily activities. This type of care is tailored to the specific needs of the individual you’re caring for, so they may cover a wide range of activities, including:

• Light housekeeping such as washing dishes, doing laundry, etc. Please note, however, that this role does not include performing heavy housework.
• Organizing a client’s schedule (arranging doctors’ appointments, etc.).
• Grocery shopping and meal preparation.
• Arranging transportation for errands and appointments.
• Personal hygiene (bathing, dressing and toileting, etc.).
• Assistance with ambulation and feeding.
• Communicating with family members about care and care requirements.
• Providing companionship.

The extent to which a client requires these services depends on their health condition and specific needs.

Work Hours and Environment 

Work will primarily take place in the client’s home and the hours are determined by the tailored care they receive, including:

• Respite care – Assisting family caregivers on a temporary basis, providing post-hospitalization care, etc.
• Part-time care – Caregiving on a regular basis for a set number of hours per day or days per week.
• Live-in care – Providing non-medical care on a full-time basis to seniors as an alternative to moving into assisted living communities.

United Methodist Communities Senior Independent Home Care – Where Compassion is Part of the Job 

Whether you need part-time residential in home senior care in NJ or need someone qualified and experienced to assist your loved one on a more permanent basis, our HomeWorks program is here to help. Our team is dedicated to playing a positive and compassionate role in the lives of seniors and are trained and selected for their ability to enhance the security, wellbeing and state-of-mind. Our staff are fully certified in New Jersey and have extensive senior care training and experience, so please feel free to ask for formal certification and references.

For more information on our home health aide services in NJ, please contact us today or visit our website at https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/home-health-aide-services/

Original content posted on https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/a-day-in-the-life-of-a-home-health-aide/

Celebrating the Festive Season with Your Loved One in Hospice

The holiday season can be especially difficult for families with a loved one in hospice, making a traditional time of celebration touched with sadness. However, there are still many ways — and reasons — to feel joy through the festive season.

Your Hospice Team is there to Help You Celebrate 

The central focus for hospice communities and their services is the comfort and wellbeing of their patients, and this makes the holiday season especially important to us. Our team is here to provide support to families as well as loved ones, and if you need some help bringing the spirit of the season to life, we’re here for that too! Here are some insights from the team at our hospice in South Jersey:

• Bring the festive season to your loved one. Travel can be difficult, if not impossible for hospice residents, but that’s no reason not to miss out on a family occasion. Decorate your loved one’s room, bring in their favorite foods and home comforts and spend time together over your favorite holiday treats.
• Focus on calm celebration to avoid overstimulation. A regular celebration is a lot for anyone to handle, and could very well be too much for your loved one to take in. This is especially true for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. Rather than overturning their daily routine, try to incorporate special moments into their regular day. This will help make the time more enjoyable and rewarding for your loved one.
• Don’t focus on a single day. Hospice patients experience both good and bad days, so don’t plan all your festivities for a single day or event. Instead, phone ahead and find out how your loved one is doing, then plan your day around the feedback you get.
  On a good day, it’s great to get the kids to come with and put up decorations, to plan a lunch or small outing — it takes a bit more preparation, but it’s worth it. Communicate with staff about visitors and plans that you have so that they can help out.
• Create a special moment. The holidays are bittersweet for families whose loved ones are terminal, but it does make this time even more special in many ways. As sad as it may be that this could be their last holiday with you, it’s a good opportunity to make it truly special. Take lots of photos, build a scrapbook and take the time to slow down and spend quality time together. These are wonderful moments for meaningful traditions, so make the most of them.

Our Hospice in South Jersey is Here to Make the Holidays Special 

At The Shores, a part of the well-known United Methodist Communities non-profit organization in New Jersey, we offer compassionate, professional hospice care in the Jersey Shore area called Bridges. It focuses on creating a nurturing and comforting environment for patients and their loved ones through customized care programs and compassionate support. To find out more about our hospice in Cape May County, please visit our website at https://theshores.umcommunities.org/hospice-care-nj/ or contact us today and organize your visit.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/celebrating-the-festive-season-with-your-loved-one-in-hospice/

6 Christmas Activities Your Whole Family Will Love

Want your festive season to be filled with fun for every member of your family? The team at our assisted living community in Gloucester County has put together a list of events happening in December 2018 everyone will love, young and old:

1. Santa Parade and Christmas in the Park. Christmas in Pitman! Beginning Nov. 24, Santa comes to Pitman in the Santa Parade. Then each Thursday-Saturday, visit Santa in his house and take an old fashioned trolley ride throughout town and enjoy all the sights and sounds of Christmas each weekend, leading up to Christmas.
2. Downtown Haddonfield Candlelight Shopping. From November 23, 2018 through December 21, 2018 enjoy candlelight shopping in Haddonfield, featuring in-store events, unique gift ideas, horse-drawn carriage rides and live holiday entertainment every Friday in the Downtown.
3. Christmas shows at the Strand Theatre. Located in Lakewood, this theatre puts on a range of productions over the Christmas season, from the traditional Nutcracker performed by the Atlantic City Ballet and Garden State Philharmonic, to holiday shows, carols and concerts.
4. The Nutcracker at The Kendall Main Stage Theater. The Roxey Ballet, the award-winning professional dance company, is proud to present its annual holiday classic: Audiences can also expect a visit from Santa and his jolly friends during the performance! The Kendall Main Stage Theater is in Ewing, NJ. Follow this link for dates, times, and ticket details: https://www.visitnj.org/nj-events/nutcracker
5. Christmas Village in Philadelphia. Located in Love Park from Thanksgiving through Christmas Eve, Christmas Village will feature over 80 vendors selling authentic European food, ornaments, and arts & crafts from all over the world!
6. The Christmas Spectacular. Starring the Radio City Rockettes, this Broadway show is a festive season tradition that’s being happening for over 75 years! With something for every age, this singing, dancing show is sure to wow any audience. Get ready for dazzling costumes, precision choreography and special effects!

Looking for Assisted Living Gloucester County That Prioritizes Quality of Life? Speak to Our Team Today 

Pitman is an assisted living community in Gloucester County, NJ, offering high quality, scalable assisted living services in a comfortable, well-supported and beautiful environment. As part of the United Methodist Communities network, we also offer rehabilitation, access to therapists, hospice care, respite care and memory care and support services. We welcome seniors from all faith backgrounds.

To find out more about our assisted living community, please visit our website at https://pitman.umcommunities.org/ contact us today or book a personal tour.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/6-christmas-activities-your-whole-family-will-love/

Making Home a Safer Place for Elderly Parents

One of the leading concerns for family members of elderly parents is that their loved ones will suffer a fall while at home. Although reduced reflexes and becoming less steady while standing are a normal part of aging, it does increase the risk of falls. This poses a very serious issue for seniors, as falls are the number one reason seniors visit the emergency room and the leading cause of hip fractures, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

UMC’s trained home health aides can assess the fall risks inside the home and correct as many as they can. They may also develop a list of recommended modifications for the home, if necessary. Here are just a few of the most common precautions on our checklist:

• Get rid of all tripping hazards. Things that may never present a tripping hazard to a young person can easily cause a fall in older adults. Remove all rugs and throw carpets from rooms and passageways, or secure them firmly to the floor with double-sided tape. Remove all clutter from floors and stairways, including stacks of books and magazines, blankets and even decorative items. Make sure all wires and cords are removed from walkways, repositioned and secured against walls.
• Rethink the furniture floor plan. Evaluate the furniture in each room and decide whether it should be repositioned, removed or replaced. Make sure it is positioned to keep primary traffic areas clear and easy to navigate (especially important for wheelchairs, walkers and walking sticks). Cupboards and storage should be easy to access, with everyday items within easy reach and with easy to operate handles. Furniture should sit solidly on the floor and not present a hazard if someone grabs onto it.
• Update the bathroom. Low-profile non-slip mats are ideal for placing over tiles that can become slippery, and should be positioned by the bath, shower, basin, and toilet. Non-slip strips can also be affixed to the inside of the tub itself. Grab-bars can be installed to make getting into and out of the tub easier. Grab-bars, also highly recommended in the shower and by the toilet, can be easily installed by a plumber or handyman. For seniors with more severe mobility issues, a transfer bench and a hand-held shower are important, yet small investments that make bathing a whole lot safer.
• Check the lighting. Aging affects our ability to see at night, so bright lighting throughout the house is essential, especially by stairs, hallways, main bathroom and in the master bedroom. Touch lights are also a great idea if light switches are located outside of easy reach when entering a room, and you can also install automatic nightlights in the hallway to assist your parents if they wake up late at night.
• Ask for help. Even with all these thoughtful changes, there may come a time when your parents simply cannot keep up with their home or self-care on their own. Keep in touch with them about how they are coping and remember that help is always close by. If you want to try a home health aide even for a few hours per week, UMC HomeWorks offers care and services for older adults living at-home, assisting with everything from daily tasks, bathing and cooking, to transport, companionship and health care assistance, all in the comfort of their home.

Setting the Standard for Senior Home Care Services – One of the Leading Home Care Agencies in New Jersey 

At United Methodist Communities, one of New Jersey’s leading home care agencies, we strive for quality senior home care services, including in at-home care for the elderly and respite care through HomeWorks. This program assists the elderly in the comfort of their own homes and provides them, their families and caregivers with personalized, compassionate care that prioritizes health, safety and independence. In addition to healthcare and daily homecare, we also offer pastoral care for spiritual and emotional support in the home.

For more information on our senior home care services, please contact us today or visit our website at https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/home-respite-care-services-nj/

Original content posted on https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/making-home-a-safer-place-for-elderly-parents/

How Virtual Reality Therapy is Helping Dementia and Alzheimer’s Patients

Virtual Reality (VR) and the tech industry are often regarded as a young person’s domain, but the reality says otherwise. VR technology is proving a wonderful and therapeutic resource for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia conditions!

Here are some insights about this breakthrough therapy, from the team at our CCRC in Sussex County, New Jersey.

As caregivers and family members are all too aware, dementia conditions cause people to lose connection with their lives. From confusion and memory loss to aggression and disorientation, they struggle to relate to the reality around them, especially as the condition progresses.
However, this technology creates a virtual world — one tailored to the specific needs of Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. Developed in a partnership between gaming studio, Opaque Media and Alzheimer’s Australia Victoria (a non-profit), this technology offers a richly detailed, beautiful, soothing and fully interactive world.

Virtual Reality as Sensory Therapy 

While many fantastic therapies are available for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients, VR offers something new. Using motion-sensing cameras and powerful gaming engines, it becomes a truly immersive sensory therapy.

Focused on positive, soothing imagery, patients can observe and interact with butterflies and other aspects of a peaceful, nature-rich world. While the application of this technology is still new, therapists from Alzheimer’s Australia Victoria report people became more engaged, more interactive and more communicative — even in cases in which they were previously non-verbal.

With the right support, this technology can advance further, with ideas focusing on tailored media design to help trigger memories, relive personal events and engage with loved ones. By all reports, this kind of therapy is poised to be a functional and practical way of providing critical emotional support to patients as well as their loved ones, fighting isolation and enabling the connections so critical to quality of life.

Become Part of the Community at Our CCRC in Sussex County, New Jersey 

Bristol Glen, a CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community) and assisted living community based in Sussex County, aims to provide seniors with comfortable, serviced living arrangements that free up time to enjoy life.

Contact us to find out more about our CCRC and our assisted living in Sussex County, New Jersey, please visit our website at https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/ and book your visit today.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/how-virtual-reality-therapy-is-helping-dementia-and-alzheimers-patients/

Is Assisted Living Tax Deductible?

As an assisted living community in Camden County, NJ, our team often gets asked about the cost of assisted living. With the cost of senior care services on the rise, it’s more important than ever that families know what financial options are available to ensure their loved one gets the best possible care, affordably. One way to help achieve this is through tax deductions for assisted living.
In fact, you may be able to deduct a portion of what you pay for assisted living costs. Medical expenses (including some long-term care expenses) are deductible if they exceed 10% of your gross income in 2019.

What Are the Qualifying Criteria for Assisted Living Tax Deductions? 

In order for assisted living expenses to be tax deductible, the resident has to be considered “chronically ill.” This means that they cannot perform two or more activities of daily living (eating, toileting, transportation, bathing and dressing, etc.) or they require supervision due to a cognitive impairment (such as Alzheimer’s disease, dementia or outcome of traumatic brain injury, etc.).
Assisted living services also have to be provided according to a plan of care prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider. This requires a doctor, nurse or social worker to prepare a plan outlining the specific services your loved one needs. Often, this can be done through the assisted living community itself.

While tax deductions usually apply to the assisted living services themselves and not room and board, these can also be included if it is part of the care plan. This often applies to chronically ill residents and residents who are there for medical care.

In the event that your loved one is not a chronically ill resident, they may still deduct a portion of their expenses not related to medical care, such as initiation fees or entrance fees.
If you are an adult child paying for your parent’s assisted living, you are also able to deduct these expenses providing that they meet the criteria above and that you cover more than half of these expenses in the applicable tax year. If you cover between 10 and 50% of these expenses, you can still qualify for a deduction if you contribute according to a Multiple Support Agreement.

This agreement must be signed between all contributing family members and the total contribution must be for more than 50% of your loved one’s expenses. In these agreements, each person will qualify for the deduction.

Visit Our Assisted Living Community in Camden County, NJ and Experience True Independent Living for Seniors 

Collingswood is part of the United Methodist Communities network of high-quality, non-profit assisted living communities specializing in independent living for seniors. With an experienced care and assistance team, scalable services customized to each resident’s needs, and a lively social calendar, we focus our community to provide essential resources that promote independence and quality of life.

To find out more about United Methodist Communities or our assisted living community in Camden County, NJ, please visit our website at http://collingswood.umcommunities.org/ or contact us and book your visit today.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/is-assisted-living-tax-deductible/

5 Great Ways to Honor Veteran’s Day!

November 11^th, a very important day for many Americans and their families, is a wonderful opportunity to remember and thank the men and women who have served our country. For seniors, this is an especially important day, so our home care services team is sharing their best tips for helping your senior loved one honor this day:

1. Display the flag. While many Americans already do this, it is an especially poignant activity on this special day. Where you fly the flag, or the size of the flag is up to you, but the most important thing is that your loved one gets a chance to participate.
2. Visit a VA facility. If your loved one is fairly mobile and up to a busier day, then why not visit a VA hospital or assisted living community? It’s a good opportunity to show your support or even share memories. They may offer events that you can participate in or you could even bake a few treats together that will brighten a patient’s day!
3. Pay respects. If your loved one knew veterans who have passed away, then one good idea is to visit their gravesite and pay your respects. Take the time to talk about the person who has passed and thank them for their service with a poppy or token you can place at the site.
4. Visit a veteran. If there are any elderly veterans in your neighborhood, then this is the perfect opportunity to visit and thank them in person. It’s a good idea to make up a few care or treat packages together to drop off when you visit. It’s also a great way to reconnect with neighbors and build those essential connections that keep isolation at bay.
5. Take part in local activities. Check out local community, town and state websites to find out what’s planned for Veteran’s Day in your area. The usual list includes parades, choirs, memorial ceremonies, the Battleship ceremony and much more.

Aging in Place – Qualified Home Care Services in New Jersey 

At United Methodist Communities, we strive to offer high-quality home care services in New Jersey through our HomeWorks program. This program assists the elderly in the comfort of their own homes and provides them, their families and caregivers with personalized, compassionate care that prioritizes health, happiness and independence.

For more information on our at home care agency or our senior homecare services, pleasecontact us today or visit our website at https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/elderly-home-health-care-nj/

Original content posted on https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/5-great-ways-to-honor-veterans-day/

Celebrating the Patients and Caregivers this National Hospice and Palliative Care Month

Hospice care is about providing an essential service that ensures terminally ill loved ones are properly and compassionately cared for as they approach the end of their lives. Palliative carefocuses on providing relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness. In both cases, the goal is to improve quality of life for both the patient and the family.

As November is National Hospice and Palliative Care Month, the team at Bridges, our hospice in South Jersey, would like to raise awareness about these services — and the importance of reaching out for compassionate end-of-life care when it becomes necessary.

We’re also taking this month as an opportunity to celebrate the lives of the residents we care for and the dedicated staff who put all their efforts into ensuring the comfort and dignity of those in their care.

Get to Know What Hospice Care is All About 

Each year, around 1.4 million people with life-limiting illnesses receive and benefit from hospice care in the USA. Whether provided at home, in a hospice, assisted living facility or hospital, this care service focuses on symptom and pain management, psychosocial support and emotional support for patients and their loved ones.

This is critical during the last six months of life, when health conditions are no longer curable or treatable, ensuring that terminally ill loved ones have the best quality care and support they need during this journey — and guaranteeing that friends and family spend as much quality time with them as possible in pleasant, comfortable surroundings.

Each patient will have a professional interdisciplinary team dedicated to delivering care tailored to their specific needs and health conditions. This includes doctors and nurses as well as therapists, wellness specialists and more.

In many high-quality hospice communities, residents have private apartments and may to bring many of the comforts of home with them. In most settings, families are well-accommodated and encouraged to spend time — including meals — with their loved ones. There are also spiritual and emotional support structures available for families and loved ones to help them through this time.

Is Our Hospice Neighborhood in South Jersey the Right Choice for Your Senior Loved One? Speak to Our Team Today 

At The Shores, a part of the well-known United Methodist Communities non-profit organization in New Jersey, we offer compassionate, professional hospice care in the Jersey Shore area called Bridges. It focuses on creating a nurturing and comforting environment for residents and their loved ones through customized care programs and compassionate support. To find out more about our hospice in the Jersey Shore area, please visit our website at https://theshores.umcommunities.org/hospice-care-nj/ or contact us today and organize your visit.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/celebrating-the-patients-and-caregivers-this-national-hospice-and-palliative-care-month/

4 Signs Caregivers Can Benefit from Senior Home Health Care Services

As a leading senior home health care services provider, we know all the challenges and joys of providing care to the elderly. And while this work is a wonderful opportunity to support seniors and give back, there’s no disguising that it’s a tough job.

For family caregivers, this job can be even tougher because of their close, personal connections with the loved ones in their care. Here are some signs that a caregiver can benefit from professional assistance:

1. Constant exhaustion. Everyone experiences a busy, difficult day on occasion, when nothing seems to go right, and you end the day feeling exhausted — but this shouldn’t be the norm. Trying to balance caregiving, a job, a family, and your own needs is a massive amount of work and can easily lead to burnout. Having the assistance of a home health aide helps make all these tasks more manageable, even if it’s on a respite basis for a few days a week.
2. You have no time for yourself. If you can’t remember the last time you indulged your own interests, you may be taking on too much. Everyone needs time to watch a movie, go out with friends or unwind with a favorite hobby. It’s not being selfish — it’s essential for caregivers, helping you recharge and de-stress so you can go back to your loved one feeling energized, positive and relaxed.
3. You’re ill. Whether you’re overworking yourself, dealing with multiple sources of stress or simply deal with your own health conditions, being ill and repeatedly falling ill clearly show that caregivers need a break. Not only does being ill yourself put your loved one at risk, it can also signal that stress is taking a toll on your physical wellness. Letting a professional step in and take some of the load off your shoulders will provide essential relief.
4. You’re feeling depressed, anxious and stressed. Caregiving is a mentally and emotionally tough role, especially for family caregivers. This can lead to depression, frustration and anxiety about coping with your role. Family caregivers should make the time to attend support groups, speak to a therapist and take care of their own mental wellness to avoid caregiver burnout. A qualified home health aide can step in and take care of as much of the work as you need — letting you focus on spending quality time with your loved one.

Affordable Short and Long-Term Senior Home Health Care Services in New Jersey 

At United Methodist Communities, we strive to offer the very best quality senior home health care services through our HomeWorks program. Our team of certified and experienced home health aides are passionate about assisting the elderly in the comfort of their own homes and providing them, their families and caregivers with personalized, compassionate care that prioritizes health, happiness and independence. In addition to medical care and daily home care, we also offer pastoral care for spiritual and emotional support in the home.

For more information on our senior home health care services or to find a qualified home health aide in New Jersey, please contact us today or visit our website at https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/home-respite-care-services-nj/

Original content posted on https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/4-signs-caregivers-can-benefit-from-senior-home-health-care-services/

Long-term Care Planning Month-The Ideal Time to Start Planning for Retirement

Long-term care planning is a critical part of retirement planning, ensuring that you and your spouse have the assistance and care you require later in life. In observance of long-term care planning month, our assisted living team in Gloucester County is sharing some great advice and tips to make this easier and more effective:

• Think about your worst-case scenario. While most people avoid thinking about the worst possibilities, the fact is that taking a realistic look at your position and possible outcomes is the best way of avoiding worst-case scenarios. The first step toward creating a functional long-term care plan is to be thorough and open about your personal situation, spending habits, financial capabilities and care requirements.
• Housing considerations. Starting your planning process early allows you to examine the options available in your community and develop a plan that can accommodate your needs as they change. You may want to stay in your current home for the next few years and then find an assisted living community once it becomes too much to handle.

If you or your spouse has health conditions like Alzheimer’s, look at long-term care facilities that offer memory care and therapies while still offering the other an independent lifestyle. This stage is all about knowing the options, what each offers and what they cost.

• Health considerations. Even if you are currently in good health, it’s important to have a plan in place to meet your needs or those of your spouse if either of you become seriously ill or disabled. Make sure your wishes are well-known to your dependents, ensure your healthcare directives are up-to-date and talk to your doctor about ways you can better protect your health. It’s also a good idea to ensure that your insurance can adequately cover your needs if your health deteriorates.
• Financial considerations. The cost of long-term care is on the rise and is currently sitting at a national average of $97,455 per year for a private room in a nursing home and $45,000 per year at an assisted living facility. This means that having a financial plan in place is essential, so speak to your advisor about how best to fund long-term care, available coverage options and qualifications for Medicaid.

You can get a better idea about the costs involved by visiting local assisted living communities, finding out how much their services cost and what you are getting for your money.

Assisted Living in Gloucester County Means Comprehensive Care and a Warm Community

Pitman is an assisted living community in Gloucester County, NJ, offering high quality, scalable assisted living services in a comfortable, well-supported and beautiful environment. As part of the United Methodist Communities network, we also offer rehabilitation, access to therapists, hospice care, respite care and memory care and support services. We welcome seniors from all faith backgrounds.

To find out more about our assisted living community, please visit our website at https://pitman.umcommunities.org/ contact us today or book a personal tour.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/long-term-care-planning-month-assisted-living-pitman-nj/

5 Effective Exercises to Do from Your Wheelchair

One of the greatest challenges we face as we grow older is maintaining mobility — and for seniors in wheelchairs, this is even more important. Exercise is a great way to maintain health, prevent injuries and increase stamina.


Here are some useful strength-building exercises from our CCRC in Sussex County, New Jersey that are easy to do in a wheelchair and go a long way towards helping seniors stay active and mobile:

1. Shoulder retractions. Sit up straight and tense your ab muscles to support your back. Hold your arms at 90-degrees in front of you at shoulder level, hands facing the ground. Curve your fingers as if you are gripping something. Push your arms straight out and then bring your arms in by bending your elbows (maintaining shoulder level height) and bringing your fists towards your shoulders.

You’ll feel your shoulder blades and muscles squeezing. Repeat the action and add a resistance band between your hand when you are ready for a stronger exercise.

1. Chest squeeze. Sit up straight with your and muscles engaged and hold a medicine ball or therapy ball at chest level. Squeeze the ball to contract your chest muscles, pushing the ball forward at the same time until your arms are nearly fully extended, then bring it back towards your chest. Repeat the action and add a more resistant ball when you are ready for a stronger exercise.
2. Top taps. Sit up straight with your ab muscles engaged and your feet flat on the ground. Lift your toes upwards as far as you can and then back to the floor and repeat.
3. Tummy twist. Sit up straight with your ab muscles engaged and your feet flat on the ground, holding your arms out at 90-degrees with your forearms extended and your elbows by your side. Rotate your upper torso slowly to the left as far as you can go and then repeat to the right.
4. Knee lifts. With your feet flat on the floor, sit upright in the chair and engage your ab muscles. Slowly lift your right knee up towards your chest as far as you can comfortably manage, then lower it back to the starting position. Repeat with your left knee.

A Welcoming Community Spirit at Our CCRC in Sussex County, NJ

Bristol Glen is a CCRC and assisted living community based in Sussex County that aims to provide seniors with comfortable, serviced living arrangements that free up your time to enjoy life. Contact us to find out more about our CCRC and our assisted living facilities, amenities and services, please visit our website at https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/ and book your visit today.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/5-effective-exercises-to-do-from-your-wheelchair/

What Senior Women Need to Know about Breast Cancer

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, so the team at our senior living community in Camden County, New Jersey is raising awareness about breast cancer and how breast health can be maintained as we get older.

Breast Cancer Risks in Older Women

Research has shown that breast cancer is the second most common cause of death in all women, with higher risks and a lower survival rate for older women — particularly between the ages of 65 and 80. In fact, around half of all women diagnosed in this age group die of this disease, often because they are more likely to contract the more aggressive forms of this cancer.

Along with a family history of breast cancer, exposure to estrogen throughout your lifespan (when your menstrual periods began and ended, number and timing of pregnancies, and hormone replacement therapy), alcohol usage and exposure to radiation therapies, as well as aging itself, are all risk factors.

How Can Older Women Effectively Manage Their Breast Health?

As with many other health conditions, you play a vital role in your own health and fighting against these diseases. For older women, it is recommended that you:

1. Have all three types of breast exams conducted on a regular basis. This means doing a self-exam each week to look for lumps or changes in breast size, having a clinical exam conducted by your doctor at least once a year, and a mammogram screening once a year. As with many cancers, early intervention is key to effectively fighting this condition.
2. Know your coverage. Ensure that your health insurance, Medicare or Medicaid covers your screenings and that you commit to their recommended number of screenings per year. Remember, the American Geriatrics Society recommends mammogram screenings each year for women up to the age of 85.
3. Reduce your alcohol intake. There are clear links between alcohol consumption and breast cancer. For healthy seniors, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism recommends no more than three alcoholic drinks a day and no more than seven per week. For seniors with health problems and on medications, it is recommended that you speak to your doctor as alcohol can interfere with your treatment and worsen symptoms.

Independent Living for Seniors at Our Assisted Living Community in Camden County, NJ

Collingswood is part of the United Methodist Communities network of high-quality, non-profit assisted living communities specializing in independent living for seniors. With an experienced care and assistance team, scalable services customized to each resident’s needs, and a lively social calendar, we focus our community to provide essential resources that promote independence and quality of life.

To find out more about United Methodist Communities or our assisted living community in Camden County, NJ, please visit our website at http://collingswood.umcommunities.org/ or contact us and book your visit today.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/what-senior-women-need-to-know-about-breast-cancer/

5 Things Seniors Need to do to Prepare for Winter

Winter is approaching quickly and along with all the celebrations and festivities, the season also brings a few challenges like snow, ice and cold weather. Here are five tips for seniors to prepare for the winter ahead from our specialists in home help services for the elderly:

1. Home maintenance. Start early with home maintenance before the rush sets in. Have your home’s heating system checked and serviced, make sure the gutters are cleared out and schedule small home maintenance repairs before they become bigger problems. It’s also a good idea to have smoke and CO₂ (carbon monoxide) detectors checked to ensure they’re in good working order.
2. Wardrobe. Go through your winter wardrobe thoroughly to ensure that your warm weather items are in good condition and within easy reach when the cold sets in. Make sure you have enough warm clothing, scarves and blankets, as well as weather-proof gear, for when you go outdoors. Check your shoes to make sure they are still weather-tight and can grip well to avoid slipping on ice. Walking sticks must also be checked to ensure that worn cane tips are replaced.
3. Car maintenance. Driving in the winter can be dangerous, so make sure your vehicle is fully serviced before the icy weather arrives — check oil, wiper blades, tires and the battery. Ensure that your roadside assistance service is up-to-date and pack an emergency kit to leave inside your vehicle (not in the trunk). This kit should include a blanket, snacks with a long expiration date, hat/socks/gloves, booster cables, emergency flare, flashlight with additional batteries, cellphone adapter to charge your phone from inside the car, basic first aid kit and bottled water.
4. Home provisions. Stock up with non-perishable foods and bottled water to eliminate trips during bad weather. Frozen meals can also be stockpiled in your freezer. Aim for as much variety as possible and ensure that you have Vitamin-D-rich foods like tuna, salmon, milk and grains. Also, stock up on common over-the-counter medications.
5. Assistance. If needed, don’t hesitate to ask for help from neighbors, family, and friends. They can take on bigger jobs like clearing away snow and ice, home maintenance or fetching winter goods out of hard-to-reach places. Lifts to and from the shops, appointments or social events can also make daily life a lot easier. Some communities even have shuttle services specifically to help seniors.

Winter or Summer, Choose the Best Home Help Services for the Elderly in NJ 

At United Methodist Communities, we strive to offer the very best home health aide services in New Jersey through HomeWorks. This program is about assisting the elderly in the comfort of their own homes and providing them, their families and caregivers with personalized, compassionate care that prioritizes health, happiness and independence.

For more information on our at home health care agency or our residential in home respite care in NJ, please contact us today or visit our website at https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/elderly-home-health-care-nj/

Original content posted on https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/5-things-seniors-need-to-do-to-prepare-for-winter/

3 Workspace Design Mistakes to Avoid

Designing a workspace is an exciting project that can be very rewarding for your company and your employees by creating a more productive, enjoyable and engaged working environment. However, it is not an easy task! Getting it wrong can be a costly mistake that means years of working in a space that simply does not work for you. Here are the most common design mistakes to avoid, from our team of contemporary office furniture specialists:

1. Blindly Following the Latest Trend:

Committing to the latest office design trends without thinking them through can be a big mistake. While some trends are fantastic, they are not going to deliver the right results for you if it doesn’t work for your company or industry. For example, open and collaborative spaces are great in a marketing agency where teams have to work together across departments, brainstorm and get creative – but this trend won’t work well in a law firm where you need private spaces to assure client confidentiality.

2. Failing to Future-Proof Your Space:

Redesigning your office space is a big, time-consuming and expensive project, so you will want your new space to last for at least 5 years. However, the fast pace of technology and the need for businesses to be as agile as possible means that your needs and requirements are likely to shift during this time period – and your office design needs to be able to adapt with these changes. Infrastructure for wireless charging and smartphones/mobile tech is important, as are moveable architectural walls, adjustable height desks and chairs, and modular workstations.

3. The One-Size-Fits-All Space:

The problem with this approach – for example, having identical workstations and office chairs for each employee – is that no-one really fits this generic model. These stations make it difficult to work flexibly, to collaborate or communicate with ease, and they are often uncomfortable, leading to lower productivity and wellness issues. Instead, choose furniture that suits the use of the different designated spaces, is adjustable for height and easily moved or customized. Introduce different desk types to suit different work styles – sit-stand desks, for example. 

Make Your Office Redesign a Success with Our Contemporary Office Furniture Specialists! 

At BE Furniture, we assist our clients in achieving an optimal workspace for their business. Whether you are looking to replace old workstations with contemporary office furniture and boardroom furniture or want a comprehensive redesign and fitment of your space, our experienced team can handle it all.

For more information about our design services, including modern boardroom design services, or our office furniture products, please contact us today or visit our website at https://www.befurniture.com/

Original content posted on https://www.befurniture.com/3-workspace-design-mistakes-avoid/

A Guide to Putting Your Affairs in Order

When diagnosed with a terminal illness, one of the tasks patients need to address is ensuring that their personal paperwork is in order. Despite the negative connotations of this task, it can be a very empowering process that delivers great peace-of-mind. Here are some tips to help with that process from our hospice in South Jersey.

A Checklist of Basic Documentation

Every person’s situation and requirements are unique, but the basics apply to everyone. The general documentation and information you should gather into a file includes:
General information

1. Your full legal name, social security number, date and location of birth and current address.
2. The names and contact information for your spouse, children or nearest dependents.
3. A list of your current medications and contact information for your doctors.
4. A copy of your Living Will, Advance Directive, Last Will and Testament and Power of Attorney documents, and your lawyer’s contact details /whoever holds the original documents.
5. A copy of your birth certificate, marriage certificate, divorce certificate, citizenship documentation, etc. and instructions on where the originals are located.
6. Military records, if applicable.

Financial information

1. Medicare/Medicaid information.
2. Social security information.
3. Credit/debit card information.
4. List of bank accounts and safety deposit box information.
5. Insurance information – life insurance, homeowner’s insurance, car insurance, long-term care insurance, etc.
6. Copy of your financial Power of Attorney documents with instructions on where the originals are held.
7. List of assets and liabilities and instructions on where the deed for your home, car title and other property documents are located.

Additional information

1. Instructions on pet care and guardianship, as well as their veterinary contact information, pet insurance, etc.
2. List of monthly household bills and instructions — electricity and gas, internet, water and sewerage, real estate taxes, maintenance providers (garden service, trash, etc.).

Wellness-Focused End-of-Life Care at Our Hospice in South Jersey

At The Shores, a part of the well-known United Methodist Communities non-profit organization in New Jersey, we offer a compassionate, professional hospice neighborhoods in the Jersey Shore area called Bridges. In this program, we focus on creating a nurturing and comforting environment for patients and their loved ones through customized care programs and compassionate support. To find out more about our hospice in the Jersey Shore area, please visit our website at https://theshores.umcommunities.org/hospice-care-nj/ or contact us today and organize your visit.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/a-guide-to-putting-your-affairs-in-order/

Diagnosing and Treating Hearing Loss

Hearing loss typically begins around age 40 and slowly progresses — in fact, most people don’t even realize they’re not hearing things as clearly as they used to. For the elderly, hearing loss often progresses to the point where quality of life can be affected, and verbal communication is difficult, so it’s important recognize the symptoms of hearing loss early and get professional treatment. Here are some insights from our in-home respite care team in New Jersey.

How is Hearing Loss Diagnosed? 

An audiologist will be able to run a series of tests to evaluate the quality of your hearing and measure the extent of its deterioration. These aren’t painful tests and don’t require a hospital stay — most require you to answer questions about your health and hearing issues, and to listen to differently pitched tones through headphones.

It’s important to get a diagnosis on your hearing problem, as there are many conditions that can affect your hearing. These include:

• Age-related hearing loss;
• Build-up of earwax;
• Infection;
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears);
• Nerve damage; and
• Medication (including cancer chemotherapies).

How is Hearing Loss Treated? 

Most of these conditions are very treatable, so early diagnosis is key to getting your hearing back and preventing more serious issues. Treatments can range from a course of antibiotics in the case of infection, to a high-tech hearing aid in the case of age-related hearing loss.

Managing your diet and lifestyle can also help preserve your hearing, and following doctors’ orders to manage conditions like hypertension, diabetes, vascular disease, kidney disease, cholesterol, and thyroid disease are especially important. Even simple lifestyle changes can have an impressive effect – for some people, cutting down on their caffeine intake can prevent inner ear issues like tinnitus, ear pressure problems, dizziness and hearing loss.

Compassionate, Professional Care from Senior Home Care Specialists in NJ 

At United Methodist Communities, we strive to offer the very best quality senior home care options, including in-home respite care through our HomeWorks program. This program assists the elderly in the comfort of their own homes and provides them, their families and caregivers with personalized, compassionate care that prioritizes health, happiness and independence. In addition to medical care and daily home care, we also offer pastoral care for spiritual and emotional support in the home.

For more information on our senior home care services and in home respite care, please contact us today or visit our website at https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/home-respite-care-services-nj/

Original content posted on https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/diagnosing-and-treating-hearing-loss/

How to Recruit the Best Hires for the Senior Living Field

The senior living field is a growing, vibrant space, so it’s no surprise that top providers are racing to recruit skilled staff members to form a part of their team! Here are some tips from our assisted living team in Gloucester County on how to attract top talent to your facility:

• Look outside your industry. Organizations in the senior living field tend to look only within the industry when recruiting — but this means looking at a very limited pool. By turning to adjacent industries and providing that little bit of extra training, you’re able to access a much wider pool of talent. Also, by spending time and investing in your recruit, you’re building a stronger, more loyal relationship.
• Tap into newcomers. While work experience is always a good thing, there’s a lot to be said for approaching local training organizations and getting the pick of new recruits. By providing your own on-the-job training and balancing this staff intake with seasoned industry specialists, you get the best of both worlds — experience and enthusiasm. Your new recruits will be ready to prove themselves and happy to put in the work needed to gain that essential experience.
• Go online. These days no business can afford NOT to be online – and it’s important that your organization isn’t merely paying digital lip service either. Your website should be functional, look great and represent your brand – and it should be accompanied by a well-managed social media presence. LinkedIn is a great platform for professional recruitment, while Facebook gives your brand the chance to really express its values and character to attract vibrant new hires.
• Change the focus of your interviews. The senior living field has changed a lot in the last decade or so, making it almost unrecognizable to the facilities of the past — and interviews need to take this into account. In addition to skill requirements, put a focus on finding hires who have high emotional intelligence, who fit into your workplace culture and would be a good fit with residents.

Instead of asking them where they see themselves in five years, ask them to share a story about why this industry is so important to them. A passion for caregiving and senior wellbeing is key!

Assisted Living in Gloucester County – Discover a Community Focused on Senior Wellbeing 

Pitman is an assisted living community in Gloucester County, NJ, offering high quality assisted living services in a comfortable, well-supported and beautiful environment. As part of the United Methodist Communities network, we also offer rehabilitation, access to therapists, hospice care, respite care and memory care and support services. We welcome seniors from all faith backgrounds.

The team at Pitman is united by their tremendous sense of satisfaction in caring for, and having relationships with active, vibrant seniors. Our assisted living community offers associates an environment which upholds our faith-based, non-profit mission as the framework for everything they do, creating a supportive and focused environment. Our team also lives “the abundant life” we offer our residents by having a true sense of purpose when they come to work every day.

To find out more about career opportunities at any of the four full-service United Methodist Communities or our assisted living community, please visit our website at https://pitman.umcommunities.org/ contact us today or book a personal tour.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/how-to-recruit-the-best-hires-for-the-senior-living-field/

5 Tips for Seniors: Cyber-Crime Prevention

Cyber-crime is a growing concern that can affect any member of the population. Seniors can be more vulnerable because they often lack the awareness of cyber security techniques that younger and more tech-savvy people may have.

They also tend to have a fair amount of savings, making them valuable targets for scammers. Here are some easy tips for seniors to follow to help reduce their risk of becoming a victim of cyber-crime, from our CCRC in Sussex County, New Jersey:

1. Don’t respond to emails and texts requesting personal information. Scam emails and texts often look entirely legitimate and typically pose as being from a company whose services you use. They’ll offer an upgrade or special, or even claim that something is wrong with your account — this will include a request for your personal information like social security or credit card details.Never respond to these emails and texts, and don’t click any links in them — don’t even give your name or phone number. If you are worried that the email is legitimate, call the company directly at their listed number and they can assist you from there.
2. Create strong passwords. The passwords that you use for online services should be at least eight characters in length, using a combination of letters, numbers and symbols. An easy way to remember these passwords is simply to write them down in a notebook that you keep in a safe place inside your home or with a loved one.
3. Secure your social media. Facebook and other social media platforms have security measures that you can activate to protect your information, so ensure that these are kept on their highest setting. Don’t accept friend requests from people you don’t know, and don’t share your personal information with them.
4. Browse the internet safely. Ensure that you have up-to-date security software on your computer to prevent infection from viruses and malware (software programs designed to steal information or harm your data). Don’t enter contests or sign up for clubs online unless you are sure that they are from a reputable organization, as this may be another way to steal your personal information.
5. Get advice from a trusted person. If you are unsure of the legitimacy, want to learn more about using your computer or fixing a technical issue, be sure to ask for help from a reputable source. Often, a family member who is tech savvy can assist you – even from the other side of the country – or find a reputable company who can send out a tech assistance specialist to work on your system. It is easy for someone to pose as a helpful person and steal information directly from your computer under the guise of assisting you.

A Warm, Welcoming Senior Community – Visit Our CCRC in Sussex County, NJ 

Bristol Glen is a CCRC based in Sussex County that aims to provide seniors with comfortable, serviced living arrangements that free up time to enjoy life. Many living styles are offered including, independent living, assisted living, memory care, long-tern nursing care, and short-term rehabilitation.

Contact us to find out more about our CCRC and our assisted living in Sussex County, New Jersey, please visit our website at https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/ and book your visit today.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/5-tips-for-seniors-cyber-crime-prevention/

3 Tips for Managing Confusion in Alzheimer’s Care

September is World Alzheimer’s Month, a great opportunity to share news and insights into the treatment and care of Alzheimer’s patients, as well as spreading information and awareness of this serious condition. In this blog, the team at our home health care agency shares some helpful tips for managing confusion — a common challenge experienced by caregivers.

People with Alzheimer’s disease are likely to experience frequent bouts of confusion as the disease progresses. This can’t be prevented, as it is a direct result of the condition, but there is a lot caregivers can do to help people cope with the fear, agitation and anxiety that accompanies bouts of confusion.

Tips for Reducing Frequency of Confusion 

Caregivers can help reduce confusion by:

1. Creating a calm environment. Busy, loud and unfamiliar environments are a significant source of stress and over-stimulation, which can lead to confusion. Try to minimize time spent in these environments and ensure that everyday environments are peaceful, quiet and filled with familiar objects and sources of comfort. Blankets and clothing items can also be a source of comfort and security.
2. Staying on top of personal care. Ensuring that an Alzheimer’s patient is receiving medication correctly, is eating enough, staying hydrated and getting sufficient sleep is also very important to prevent episodes of confusion as well as maintaining their physical health. Making these daily tasks part of a stable routine ensures that caregivers are able to note any changes in physical needs or health and take action to manage these needs as soon as possible.
3. Having a progressive care plan in place. Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease and old age is likely to bring other health conditions as well, which makes it important to have a long-term care plan in place and to implement it earlier rather than later. If you are choosing professional caregiving assistance in the home, opt to implement this even on a shorter level (for example, as part-time or respite care) before it becomes urgent – this will give the patient time to adjust and become comfortable with the new caregiver while they are able to manage the change, rather than suddenly and dramatically adjusting their routine.

Respite Care, Part-Time and Live-in Care for Alzheimer’s Patients from Our Home Health Care Agency 

At United Methodist Communities, we strive to offer the very best home health aide services in New Jersey through our HomeWorks program. This program assists older adults in the comfort of their own homes and provides them, their families and caregivers with personalized, compassionate care that prioritizes health, happiness and independence.

For more information on our at home health care agency or our at home care for the elderly services, please contact us today or visit our website at https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/elderly-home-health-care-nj/

Original content posted on https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/3-tips-for-managing-confusion-in-alzheimers-care/