5 Benefits of Live-In Care

 Seniors that choose to have live-in caregivers benefit from having someone present with them 24 hours a day. Choosing to age in place in the comfort and safety of their own homes can have many advantages. The team of caregivers at United Methodist Communities HomeWorks has compiled some compelling reasons why live-in care just may be the right decision for your senior family member.

#1 – Lower cost of care

In Genworth’s most recent Cost of Care Survey, in-home care in the state of New Jersey cost an average of $26 an hour or $4,957 per month compared to staying in an assisted living community, which costs an average of $6,650 per month. By staying together at home, couples can save even more by having a single caregiver to look after both people, rather than having to pay for a more extensive care team. In addition, you can avoid the costs of selling a property, moving house, and buying new furnishings for the new space.

#2 – Less disruption

One of the biggest challenges for seniors and their families is the move out of comfortable, familiar surroundings into a new apartment at an assisted living community. As wonderful and suitable as the new space might be, this is a significant and often challenging psychological adjustment for seniors to cope with. By staying in the comfort of their own home, in-home health aides can ease seniors into care, making their home not only a familiar space but a safe one too. This is ideal for seniors who are still active in their community, who value their independence, and who need a little extra help to keep their current home working for their needs.

#3 – One-on-one, personalized attention

A live-in home health aide has no other patients or responsibilities beyond the scope of the needs of your senior parents. This means that they get one-on-one attention at all times and that care can be customized to their needs rather than relying on an entire team’s schedule. This means that medical issues can be spotted more immediately and managed more effectively, that days and activities can be tailored to their needs, mood or interest, and that they can be more easily treated as individuals rather than patients. It also means that there’s a single point of contact for family members. It can be easier to get to know and maintain an open line of communication with one individual, which will help you check up on your parents  and help create the right environment for them.

#4 – Supported independence

One of the most common concerns seniors express about moving into assisted living is a loss of independence. While most high quality communities encourage and support independence for their residents, staying at home can still be one of the best options for seniors who want to retain their independence.  A live-in caregiver can help seniors to keep up with their usual social engagements, stay active in their hobbies, and keep up relationships they’ve built over the years within their community. 

Having so much control over daily life is important for anyone, especially seniors, and a live-in caregiver in New Jersey can help keep this independence alive by driving your loved one to appointments, taking on light housekeeping duties to give them more free time, and helping your loved one to live by their own schedule.

#5 – Companionship

At UMC HomeWorks, we work hard to find a live-in aide in New Jersey for our clients who can be a companion as well as a professional caregiver. Illness, loss of independence, depression and frailty are all serious concerns with aging, and can easily make seniors withdraw and lose those all-important connections. By living with a home health aide, seniors have a companion by their side who they enjoy speaking with, who they can share new memories with, and who can provide a high level of care if needed.

For more information about 24-hour live-in care in NJ, please give us a call or visit our website. 

Originally posted: https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/5-benefits-of-live-in-care/

Relaxation Day: 3 Ways Seniors Can Unwind

Mark your calendars now: Relaxation Day is on the 15th of this month, and we all deserve some time to unwind. Especially our beloved seniors who have worked hard all their lives to provide for their families! Relaxation Day is a great opportunity to kick back and relax with your senior loved ones and show them you appreciate all they have accomplished. If you’re looking for ideas, here are some relaxation techniques and activities for seniors provided by our assisted living team in Ocean City, NJ.

#1 – Meditation and deep breathing

Have you ever felt the need to stop, sit, and just simply be, even if it’s just a few minutes? That’s meditation! There’s nothing too mysterious about it. In fact, the benefits are scientifically proven, with Harvard researchers showing that it reduces stress, clarifies the thought process, lowers blood pressure, and even improves empathy.

There are lots of ways to learn how to meditate, and it’s all about finding your personal preference. Some people like to sit outside under a tree, others like to focus on a candle flame, or listen to soft, gentle music. You can even use an app like Headspace or Insight Timer. 

Here are the basics:

• Find somewhere quiet where you won’t be disturbed.
• Sit comfortably, stacking your head above your neck, letting your shoulders draw backward and down. Use a cushion or sit in a chair if that helps.
• Close your eyes.
• Try to be present. Be aware of what’s happening right now – sounds, smells, thoughts, and sensations in the body. Don’t let yourself drift off, and try to just pay attention to the moment instead.
• It’s natural to get caught up in distractions, so try to keep your focus on your breath, breathing in and out at a slow, steady pace.
• Don’t give up, and be kind to yourself each time you drift off – it takes a lot of practice!
• Try to meditate for 10-20 minutes at a time, once a day.

#2 – Scents and sensations

Our environment can greatly affect how calm or agitated we are, so try and include calming elements in your home. It’s a good idea to start this project a while before Relaxation Day (and rope in some family and friends) so you can enjoy the results! 

Think about things like:

• Aromatherapy – Scented candles and diffusers with soft, natural essential oils like lavender, jasmine, sandalwood, and orange blossom. Plan a lovely long soak in the tub with some luxurious, scented bath bombs and pamper yourself!
• Color – Calming colors like warm greys and pale browns, soft blues and greens, off-whites, and soft pinks are cozy, welcoming, and calming. Treat your home as if it’s a spa or luxury hotel, and plan a makeover to create the perfect calming space!
• Textures – If you are redoing your décor, think about choosing soft, warm textures rather than those that are very bold, bright, or dominating. Natural fabrics and materials are a wonderful choice that makes us feel calm and relaxed as if we’re out in nature.
• Cleanouts – Clutter in the home can be incredibly stressful, making you feel claustrophobic, making it difficult to find things when you need them, and making a fall pretty likely! Get some help and plan a clean-out. Hold onto the things you love, replace the things that no longer work for you, and refresh your home to make it more functional, more open, and more relaxing to be in. Sit back, relax, and let the kids do the heavy lifting!

#3 – Get nurtured by nature

Reestablishing our connection to nature is an important way to get back to our roots, enjoy the blessings of our lives, and relax. Just remember to pack the sunscreen and a big floppy hat! 

Here are some ways to celebrate Relaxation Day in the great outdoors:

• Picnic – Plan a picnic in the park with your loved ones where the grandkids can run and play, you can share great food, and relax under the arms of a tree. 
• Nature walk – Take a gentle stroll through nature at a reserve, on a farm, or by a lake. It’s a great activity for all ages and can be combined with feeding the animals, fishing, picnicking, picking berries, or visiting a market.
• A family-friendly escape – Relaxation Day is also a great time to go off the beaten track and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. If you’re an independent senior, this could be the perfect opportunity to bond with the grandkids at a cabin, visit a nature resort, tour a national wildlife park, or even go camping.

UMC at The Shores is a leading assisted living community in Cape May County, offering seniors of all ages a full and independent way of life. Contact us today to find out more about our services, or visit our website at https://theshores.umcommunities.org/. 

Original content posted on https://theshores.umcommunities.org/the-shores/relaxation-day-3-ways-seniors-can-unwind/

Don’t Feel Guilty, You’re Doing the Right Thing

You’ve just made one of the hardest decisions of your life regarding your parent’s care. Moving a loved one into assisted living is not easy for anyone involved. Change is hard: hard for caregivers and children, and definitely hard for seniors who may be giving up a home they’ve lived in most of their life. Many families will feel guilty about this decision, but when caregiving becomes unsafe or too difficult it’s absolutely necessary to move mom or dad into an environment that will address all of their care needs and security while affording them a meaningful quality of life. Although this guilty feeling is normal, our team of assisted living associates in Camden County is here to remind you of three major reasons why you’re doing the right thing for your loved one, as well as yourself. 

1. Moving your loved one into assisted living doesn’t mean you abandoned them or failed. The main source of guilt comes from the “what if” type of questions you plague yourself with. What if I tried this treatment with Mom, could that have prolonged her independence at home? Did I give up too quickly on caring for her? Am I selfish? These questions are both unfair and untrue. You did not fail as a caregiver or abandon your loved one by asking for help. Part of being a good caregiver is realizing when the situation has escalated beyond your control. It is also fair to acknowledge that you have a right to your own life and an obligation to your own children that may be suffering. Relinquishing control and putting your loved one in the hands of an experienced care team is the smartest way to keep them safe and give you peace of mind while giving them the level of care they deserve. You could also choose an assisted living community that is close to where you live so you can still see your loved one often and ensure everyone caring for mom is on the same page with treatments.

2. Moving your loved one into assisted living prioritizes their health and safety. An assisted living community that offers rehabilitation, skilled nursing and memory care is well equipped to handle a wide range of senior health conditions. If your parent is showing signs of Alzheimer’s or they have serious mobility issues, living home alone could quickly become dangerous. A change in their living situation is necessary if they require 24-hour health and safety monitoring and a higher level of care. You definitely should not feel guilty about this because 24-hour monitoring and care is impossible for just one person to take on. At an assisted living community, there is a fully staffed team of professionals available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to care for your loved one. 

3. Moving your loved one into assisted living prioritizes your own health. This change in your loved one’s living situation prioritizes your health as much as theirs. Being a full-time caregiver takes a mental and physical toll, especially if you don’t have help. As we mentioned earlier, it’s completely normal to second guess ourselves and feels guilty. However, you have to keep reminding yourself that every family’s situation is different, so it’s not fair to compare your situation to someone else’s. It’s also worth mentioning that the people around you who don’t help or don’t fully understand the situation are not qualified in the slightest to make judgments about this move. They say “ignorance is bliss,” so let the negative comments go in one ear and out the other. 

Assisted living for seniors in Camden County NJ

At our assisted living community in Collingswood, associates are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to care for our senior residents. Whether they need help with daily tasks like dressing or meal preparation or need someone to listen to their concerns about transitioning to assisted living – our compassionate associates are here and ready to provide the level of care your loved one truly deserves. 

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

Original content posted on https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/collingswood/dont-feel-guilty-youre-doing-the-right-thing/

How to Observe Senior Citizens Day

Did you know that August 21st is Senior Citizen’s Day? Established in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan, this day provides an opportunity to show our appreciation for the dedication, accomplishments, and services of senior citizens. The day also serves as a reminder to support senior citizens in living their lives fully and independently. The team from our senior living community in Newton, NJ has put together a few ways to show appreciation to the special senior citizens in your life today and every day.

#1 – Spend quality time together

Spend quality time with the seniors in your life, whether they’re a parent, relative, family friend, or even a neighbor. Let them know that they are appreciated and loved and that you’re there for them, no matter what. If you live far away, you can send cards and gifts, plan a family video call, or a simple phone call.

#2 – Learn a new skill

Seniors have so much experience to share and can become the perfect mentor for you or your child! Spend some time with seniors in your community learning to knit, quilt, make jam, bake, or anything you’d like to learn together. This is a wonderful way of showing seniors that they are valued and have a purpose in our community, and you’ll be preserving useful skills and knowledge to pass onto the next generation.

#3 – Share your skills and passions

Work with senior networks in your community to set up an event for seniors in your area if you have a skill you’d love to share. Get local music students to set up a little concert, teach a fun painting or craft lesson, set up a storytelling session for seniors with dementia, or host a talent show. Sharing your skills is a great way to give back to the seniors in your community and the entertainment and interaction are sure to be appreciated!

#4 – Share your time

You can also volunteer your time for local seniors who need a little extra help, whether you spend time being a companion at local continuing care retirement communities or help out a neighbor. This is a great way to celebrate senior citizens by giving back because anyone can do it – even kids! You can do a grocery run, bake something special, perform handyman tasks, do garden maintenance, play a game of chess, or make nutritious dinners – anything you like!

#5 – Reminisce together about their past

Take the time to find out about the interesting times your senior loved one has lived through – you’ll be amazed at the rich and fascinating stories you’ll hear! Get your family together to learn about your family history, share a lovely meal and settle into the past. You can also watch their favorite movies growing up, recreate favorite treats, or even drive around the neighborhood they grew up in and talk about what’s changed vs. what’s stayed the same.

Abundant living for seniors in New Jersey

UMC at Bristol Glen is one of the leading continuing care retirement communities in NJ. We offer a beautiful and welcoming space for seniors, whether you have just retired or are looking for additional care. We also offer a wonderful program for residents with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia called Tapestries Memory Care. Tapestries provide tailored support to seniors with memory challenges. Our experienced associates work tirelessly to meet the social, medical, and wellness needs of every resident, to promote a happy and abundant life. 

For more information on Bristol Glen, our senior care services, and how we support independent style living for seniors in NJ, please contact us today or visit our website at https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/bristol-glen/how-to-observe-senior-citizens-day/

Easy Steps to Talk to a Loved One with Alzheimer’s

If your loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, knowing what to do next and how to best take care of their changing needs can easily become overwhelming. Alzheimer’s is a diagnosis that affects the whole family, including the person’s close friends, and although there are many movies depicting the memory loss experience, nothing can prepare you for experiencing it first-hand. 

Our Tapestries Memory Care team at UMC at Pitman understands that families can feel a little frustrated and stuck when it comes to communicating with a loved one who has Alzheimer’s. We’ve put together some tips that we hope will help you keep the important lines of communication open and active:

• Try to avoid asking short-term memory questions. People diagnosed with Alzheimer’s often exhibit short-term memory loss as a symptom, so they may have trouble recalling details from events that recently happened. For example, if you ask them what they had for dinner the night before, they may not be able to recall their meal or if they ate at all. Being unable to recall somewhat basic information can cause your loved one to become frustrated and agitated. 
• Don’t correct them. They ask for sugar, but you know they meant to ask for salt instead. While it’s tempting to correct them until they repeat the correct word, people with Alzheimer’s often mix up common words or forget them altogether. Instead of saying “No, you need salt, not sugar” we recommend ignoring these small mix-ups. 
• Try not to be alarmed by aggressive behavior. Losing your memory is a very difficult process, and people with dementia often exhibit aggressive behavior when they don’t recognize their environment or when they find they are unable to communicate what they truly want to say. Acting aggressively may be the only way they can express their frustration or discomfort, so try to pay extra  attention to what’s frustrating them when they get aggressive.
• Don’t patronize them or talk down to them. Your loved one is an adult who deserves care and respect, so talking down to them or using baby talk can make them feel insulted and patronized. It also won’t help them communicate more efficiently with you, and instead may have the opposite effect.

Memory care in Pitman NJ

If you feel that your loved one with Alzheimer’s can no longer live safely at home, or if you’re no longer able to provide the level of care they need to be safe and healthy, it may be time to consider a specialized memory care neighborhood. At Pitman, our Tapestries Memory Care neighborhood has been designed specifically for people with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia, and our highly experienced Life Enrichment Team Specialists (LETS) work with each resident to deal positively with their memory loss. 

Whether your loved one is in the early stages of memory loss or their dementia has advanced, at Tapestries we help our residents communicate their needs, thoughts and feelings, while developing their strengths and capabilities. We understand the communication process can be frustrating, but our LETS are trained to maximize our residents’ quality of life at all stages. 

For more information about Tapestries Memory Care at UMC at Pitman, or if you have any questions, please contact our team today.

Original blog posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/easy-steps-to-talk-to-a-loved-one-with-alzheimers/

Communicative Tech for Seniors: Best Apps

As we’ve discovered during quarantine, being socially distant doesn’t have to mean being socially disconnected. If there is one good thing to come out of COVID-19, it’s this: seniors are now more tech-savvy than ever! There are many different communicative technologies available today that can be downloaded to our smartphones in a matter of seconds. With that in mind, our assisted living team serving West Deptford is going to talk about some great senior communication apps along with their best features. Note: all of the apps mentioned below can be downloaded through the App Store on an iPhone or Ipad. 

Caribu 

This communicative app is particularly useful because it helps seniors to connect with their young grandchildren not only through audio and video but also through fun activities. This free app, available for both smartphones and tablets, offers a wide selection of children’s books and other fun, interactive games that seniors can play with their beloved little ones. 

Zoom

Arguably, the most popular communicative tech on the market today is Zoom. This video calling software rose to popularity during the pandemic as a way to connect with loved ones, friends, and coworkers when face-to-face interaction wasn’t an option. Even though quarantine is over and vaccines are now easily accessible, Zoom is still a relevant communication tool for seniors. It is especially useful for seniors to connect with family members who do not live close by. Some of Zoom’s best features are: 

• Free download (for calls 40 minutes or less)
• Supports video calls for two or more people 
• Can easily enable camera on or off along with muting the microphone
• Can change the background behind you to spice things up! 

Online Walkie Talkie Pro

Remember walkie-talkies? Well, now they’re back in a whole new way! The smartphone app, Online Walkie Talkie Pro, acts like a real walkie-talkie with high-quality voice and video capabilities. Users set to the same public channels can all talk to one another by holding down the PTT button. For example, seniors can ask their friends to set their app to channel 2, and then they will all be able to join a group chat that utilizes all the real sound effects of a walkie-talkie! 

Facebook Messenger

Facebook’s Messenger app is also free and available on all smart devices. Messenger allows seniors to send messages, pictures, and videos with anyone they’d like – as long as all users have an active Facebook account. This app also has the capability to set up video calls with a small group of people. 

Senior technology assistance at UMC at Pitman

At United Methodist Communities at Pitman, associates are available to help residents with communicative apps on their smart devices. Our associates have the patience, compassion, and knowledge to connect seniors to these new ways of technology in order to promote the most connected and fulfilling lifestyle.

For more information about technology usage at UMC at Pitman in Gloucester County, please contact us today or visit our website at: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2021/08/23/communicative-tech-for-seniors-best-apps/

How Can I Cover In-Home Care Costs?

 When deciding on in-home care for mom or dad, trying to calculate all the costs involved can easily become overwhelming. United Methodist Communities HomeWorks is here to help families understand their options when it comes to affording in-home care for their loved ones. When you’re paying for in-home care, it’s important to understand what exactly this monthly cost covers. This will be different for every agency and depends on the care your parent needs, so be sure to go through the cost breakdown in detail. Let’s take a look at the available options in New Jersey.

Understanding in-home care costs in New Jersey

According to Genworth’s most recent Cost of Care Survey, in-home care in the state of New Jersey costs an average of $26 an hour or $4,957 per month. In comparison, staying in an assisted living community costs an average of $6,650 per month, so in-home care still offers a competitive, financially viable option for seniors and their families.

At HomeWorks, our rates are determined by the kind of care your loved one needs, the hours you’ll require a home health aide, and the length of time that you sign up for. As a result of all these variables at play, we tailor costs to each client. Typically, non-medical care (such as assistance with bathing, dressing, cooking meals, transport, light housekeeping, companionship and running errands) costs less per hour than medical care (palliative care, wound care, and nursing) from a trained nursing aide because of the qualifications required and the responsibilities the care entails. However, long-term contracts through a home health agency can help bring the cost-per-month down.

In-home care financing options in New Jersey

Before committing to in-home care, it’s important to research different options provided by reputable local agencies in your area. This will give you a clearer idea of what the monthly costs will be, and how you can expect these to change as care needs evolve. Many families consider the following options to help finance in-home care costs in NJ.

• Collective sibling agreements – This is a legal agreement between siblings or family members that outlines how each party can help contribute towards care costs. This is especially helpful for family members who live far away from their parents. These agreements usually include responsibilities that each party will carry, as well as stipulations that outline how they will be repaid through the parent’s estate plan. This helps spell out expectations upfront and avoid frustration, miscommunication, and resentment down the line.

• Reverse mortgage – A reverse mortgage uses the value of the equity in a property to get cash either in a lump sum or in monthly amounts. As a result, it’s a good way to use your parent’s home to pay off their in-home care costs without having to sell. However, this option does have limitations – your loved one must be 62 or older, has to own the home outright or have very little left on their mortgage, and the home must be managed within very strict guidelines for insurance, maintenance, etc. in order to not default on the loan.

• Long-term insurance and annuities – You can use the funds from long-term insurance or a retirement annuity to help pay for in-home care. The benefit of an annuity is that it isn’t considered an asset when applying for Medicare, but the drawback is that you can only start drawing out funds after a certain date or you’ll face a penalty. If you are considering a long-term insurance policy, it’s important to see if there is coverage for long-term care in the policy itself, as well as the additional terms that this carries. With either option, it is essential to use an experienced and ethical financial adviser for guidance.

• Veteran’s benefits – Veterans who have served more than 90 days active duty with at least one day falling within an active war period, and who have been honorably discharged may qualify for the Veteran’s Pension, as well as aid and attendance benefits from the VA. The qualification process for veterans and their surviving spouses who need benefits is complex, and we advise that you use free Veterans Service Organizations to assist you. 

HomeWorks is run by the faith-based, non-profit United Methodist Communities network to provide in-home care as an alternative to assisted living. Our team will work with you to understand your options for paying in-home care costs in NJ, and we are partnered with Veteran Home Care to help aging veterans and their spouses to get the home assistance and benefits they need. 

For more information, please give us a call today or visit our website.

Originally posted: https://homeworks.umcommunities.org/blog/covering-in-home-care-costs/

Questions to Ask Your Parent Before Choosing a Senior Living Community

Making the decision to move your aging parent into a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) can be difficult for everyone involved. Unfortunately, due to outdated stereotypes, some older adults are resistant to the idea of senior living communities because they fear losing their independence. Even though the conversations about CCRCs can be tense, honest communication is key to ensuring your family makes the right decision for  your senior loved one’s well being . 

It’s important to take your parent’s opinions, thoughts, and feelings into consideration when choosing a senior living community. Here at UMC, we’ve put together a list of essential questions to talk through with your parent that will help identify the best living arrangement for them:

• If your health needs change, do you want to move or stay where you are? One reason CCRCs are so popular is that if your loved one’s health needs change, there’s no need for them to uproot themselves and move into a new community. They can stay right where they are and continue receiving the medical care they need. Moving, especially for seniors, can be stressful and anxiety-inducing because they have to acclimate to an entirely new environment. In a CCRC like UMC at Bristol Glen, your loved one can remain in their community even when their health and medical needs change.

• What level of support do you require in your everyday life? There is no one-size-fits-all approach to senior living – every senior has a different spectrum of needs and requires a customized level of support. Perhaps your aging parent only needs help with sporadic tasks like cleaning and laundry, or maybe they need more hands-on support with everyday things like dressing and cooking. 

• Do you need help getting out of bed, getting up out of a chair, or using the restroom? Assessing your parent’s mobility is an important part of deciding which assisted living arrangement will be best for them. The levels of care provided in CCRCs range from minimal support to full-on assistance, and it’s important to understand what type of support your loved one will need with their general mobility, such as getting out of bed in the morning or moving from room to room. 

Preparing for assisted living in Sussex County

We understand that your parent might be apprehensive or maybe even a little resistant to the idea of moving into a CCRC. We encourage you to come visit UMC at Bristol Glen, so the whole family can experience the benefits of living our vibrant, thriving CCRC first-hand. You’ll find a diverse range of senior residents who retain their independence, while pursuing their hobbies and new interests. You’ll also have a chance to see the varying levels of care our dedicated associates provide. 

CCRCs are designed to allow residents to continue living their lives as they wish for as long as possible. Rather than hinder independence, CCRCs do exactly the opposite – they provide essential medical care that enables older adults to remain independent and remain active for as long as it’s safe for them to do so.

For more information about UMC at Bristol Glen, or if you have any questions about having the conversation with your senior parent, please contact our team today. Discover why so many people in and around Sussex County New Jersey choose our CCRC for their loved ones.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/questions-to-ask-your-parent-before-choosing-a-senior-living-community/

4 Signs Your Senior Parent Needs Help

No one knows your parents the way you do — something out of character for them may be an everyday occurrence for someone else. Even small changes shouldn’t be brushed under the rug, as they could be a sign of something more serious. Here are some signs to be aware of that may indicate that your aging parent needs help at home or in a community setting, from our senior living team in South Jersey.

#1 – Difficulty with daily routines

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) are those things that we do almost unthinkingly each day of our lives, from cooking and bathing to dressing ourselves and moving around the house. For many seniors, these tasks become much more challenging if they feel unsteady on their feet, suffer from arthritis, are ill, or are becoming forgetful.

#2 – Unexplained weight loss

Many people do lose weight as they get older, as appetites and metabolisms change with different stages of life. However, a sudden or dramatic loss of weight without a good explanation is a cause for concern. It may mean that your parent is struggling to do their grocery shopping and prep meals. Illnesses like cancer can cause weight loss, and dementia can also cause people to miss meals out of forgetfulness. Some medications can also cause a diminished appetite.

If you notice significant weight loss, It’s a good idea to have a health check-up to ensure that any medical issues are properly diagnosed as soon as possible. Your parent’s physician can also talk to them about why they might be losing weight. It could be as simple as needing help getting groceries each week or needing to move into a community where nutritious meals are supplied in a dining room or directly to their apartment.

#2 – A messy or unhygienic appearance

Dressing and bathing often become more challenging for the elderly, with arthritis making it harder to fasten buttons and laces. Feeling unsteady can even make showering in a stall with grab bars difficult. If your parent is usually well-groomed, but you’ve started noticing that they are not bathing as often (or as thoroughly) as they usually would, or that they are wearing the incorrect clothes and have a sloppy appearance, it may be a sign that they’re having some difficulties.

Whether the problem is clothing that’s difficult to wear, a bathroom that’s difficult to use, fears of falling, or anything else, it’s an important thing to be aware of to guide your search for senior assistance.

#3 – Changes in mood, behavior, or mental status

Dramatic changes in personality and behavior can indicate anything from depression or social isolation to a dementia condition, stroke, or other illness. Typically, elderly parents who are starting to struggle may show a lack of motivation to do activities they once enjoyed, a loss of interest in hobbies, difficulty tracking time, lack of communication, dramatic mood swings, agitation, and even physically or verbally abusive behavior.

It’s important to watch for these changes because a lot can be done to assist the elderly in these areas. Whether it’s getting on track with professional memory care, getting an early diagnosis on a medical condition, or finding a community like UMC at The Shores that offers the support, social interaction and companionship they deserve, there are many options to help you maintain or enhance your loved one’s quality of life.

#4 – Neglecting the home

If your house-proud parents are no longer able to keep up with maintaining the home or garden and struggle with other household chores, moving into assisted living can take this burden off their shoulders. Not only will the right assistance alleviate concerns about safety, hygiene, and care for your parents, but it will also free up their time to spend it as they want, supporting a better quality of life all around.

When you visit your parents, keep an eye out for low food supplies, spoiled food not being thrown out, stacks of unopened mail, a dirty or cluttered home, urine smells, unusual stains, poor general upkeep of the yard, and scorch marks on pots and pans. These signs can all indicate your loved ones need additional support.

Independent, active, and abundant – Assisted Living in Cape May County

While some seniors may come right out and say they’re finding it difficult to bathe, dress, or get around the house, others find this topic difficult to talk about. Instead, you may notice that your mom who is usually so neatly dressed is looking disheveled or not wearing her favorite clothing. Your dad who usually takes care of himself may stop bathing or eating properly. Whatever you notice, remember to take note of it and start exploring ways of providing assistance that still supports a full and independent lifestyle.

At UMC at The Shores, we offer a welcoming community for seniors of all levels of independence. We also have a dedicated memory care program for residents with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. We aim to create a warm, active community where seniors get the support they need to live an abundant life.

Contact us today to talk more about assisted living in South Jersey, or visit our website at https://theshores.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://theshores.umcommunities.org/the-shores/4-signs-your-senior-parent-needs-help/

Senior Safety Tips: Stay Out of The Heat!

Although we’re nearing the end of summer, 90 degree days are not yet behind us! Heat waves are still very possible and can be dangerous to anyone, especially older adults. Now this isn’t to say seniors should stay inside for the rest of summer! Seniors can safely enjoy outdoor summer activities like going to the beach or a family BBQ, as long as they take the proper safety precautions in the heat.

With that said, here are some summer heat safety tips for seniors from our assisted living team in Camden County, NJ.

Protect your skin with SPF and shade when possible

It only makes sense to start off with the most obvious and effective ways to protect seniors from the sun: SPF and shade. Your loved one should apply sunscreen every time they step outside in the summer for a number of reasons. The sun’s rays can cause painful sunburns, sun spots, cancer and pre-cancer, and some of these conditions can lead to chronic health complications. Older adults are especially at risk because their skin is more fragile and susceptible to the sun’s damage. With skin safety in mind, we recommend your senior family member uses a broad spectrum sunscreen with at least 30 SPF to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Aside from wearing sunscreen outdoors, we also recommend finding shady spots to cool down during peak sun hours: 10am-4pm.

Stay hydrated at all times

Another senior safety tip is to always have enough water during the hot, summer weather. Dehydration happens when our bodies lose more fluid than they take in. Seniors are more at risk for dehydration because they have a lower volume of water in their bodies to begin with. Here are some recommendations to avoid dehydration from our team of health professionals:

• Always carry a water bottle and refill it often throughout the day
• Avoid caffeinated or sugary drinks like tea, coffee, and soda that dehydrate the body
• Eat food like fruits and vegetables that have high water content

Wear bug spray when outdoors

This tip may seem less relevant than the others, but trust us – it’s just as important. Seniors are more prone to getting the diseases that bugs carry due to their more fragile immune systems. Heat exhaustion plus a harmful bug bite could mean big trouble. Older adults should make sure that they are properly protecting themselves from bugs by wearing insect repellent and avoiding places where they are more likely to encounter harmful insects. We recommend using a bug repellent that has at least 20% DEET to prevent insects from biting exposed skin. It’s also best practice to let your sunscreen dry completely before applying your bug spray for maximum protection.

Sun safety at our assisted living community in Camden County

Our associates at United Methodist Communities at Collingswood understand how harmful the summer sun can be to seniors who are not properly protected. That’s why they take extra precautions with our assisted living residents during these hot weather months, especially when there are a lot of fun outdoor activities planned! We don’t want anyone to miss out due to something as preventable as sun damage. 

For more information about our assisted living support services in Camden County, call us today or visit our website at: https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/collingswood/senior-safety-tips-stay-out-of-the-heat/

5 Books for Seniors with Dementia

For some people, the ability to read books may not seem like such a terrible skill to lose. However, for book lovers with dementia, the inability to read robs them of a favorite hobby and a healthy escape from reality. With that said, our memory care team at Bristol Glen has put together a list of books for seniors with varying stages of dementia.

What to look for in books for seniors with dementia

Reading to or with your loved one is a wonderful bonding activity that sparks the imagination, keeps the mind active, and may even help preserve cognitive function. While we’ve suggested several books for dementia residents below, you can always look for a few to add to your library at home. Here are some factors to consider:

• Pictures – Choose books with plenty of pictures (although nothing too busy and chaotic), for your loved one to look at. Our visual senses are much more stimulated by colors and images than text, so pictures and illustrations make the content more engaging and interesting for them.
• Simple stories –Stories should be simple sentences and concepts (depending on how advanced your loved one’s dementia is), but not boring. Look for stories that connect with the events of their lives, especially their childhood or early life, as this is the period of their life where memories are the strongest.
• Audiobooks –Audiobooks can be both soothing and interesting for seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Look for content that resonates with their lives and that is easy to consume, or books read by a favorite author.
• Interaction –Books that have interactive elements can be more engaging for people with advanced dementia. Keep an eye out for coloring books, basic puzzles, and multi-sensory engagement to keep your loved one involved and entertained.

#1 – The Heart Garden by Karla Kale

This is one of the Marlena Books series, where different authors write short stories that are specially formatted for individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia. In this story, a mother and her son explore the wonders of their spring garden. It’s all about nurturing the special bond between mother and child.

#2 – A Love That Waited by Brandon Johnson

Another great story from the Marlena Book series is A Love That Waited, which focuses on a couple separated by war. While Henry serves in the armed forces, Amy waits for him faithfully for years. This story is all about love, patience, and a journey that two souls take towards each other.

#3 – The Sunshine on My Face by Lydia Burdick

This is more than a storybook – it’s a way to help initiate personal conversations between readers and individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s. With its large size and picture content, it’s perfect for reading aloud and bonding between grandparents and kids at storytime! It’s straightforward, full of joy, and evocative of favorite pastimes.

#4 – Blue Sky White Clouds by Eliezer Sobel

This is a wonderful way to spend time with a loved one in the advanced stages of dementia or Alzheimer’s. It’s a picture book filled with images of nature, everyday objects, and people accompanied by simple, large-format captions.

#5 – Color Your Mind: A Coloring Book for Those with Alzheimer’s and the People Who Love Them by Maria Shriver

Created by Maria Shriver, a longtime Alzheimer’s advocate, this coloring book is designed to relieve stress and tap into creativity as you work through the story. It’s interactive and ties activities to helpful information, helping to create a balanced life.

Memory care in Newton, NJ, for seniors with dementia

Bristol Glen is part of United Methodist Communities, a collection of senior living and assisted living communities in New Jersey dedicated to supporting abundant, independent living. For residents living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, we offer a wonderful program called Tapestries Memory Care, designed to benefit both residents and their families through life-enriching care and advanced cognitive therapies.

To find out more about our community or dementia care in Sussex County, NJ, call us today or visit our website at: https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://bristolglen.umcommunities.org/bristol-glen/5-books-for-seniors-with-dementia/

How Occupational Therapy Can Benefit Your Loved One

One of the toughest parts of getting older is losing the ability to do things that we once considered easy. When you’re younger and mobile, you don’t even think twice about things like walking, climbing stairs, bending over to pick things up, and other similar ranges of motion. Many factors contribute to a lack of mobility, including aging, health issues and injuries. For older adults who find that their quality of life is being negatively impacted by mobility problems, occupational therapy may be the answer. 

What is occupational therapy?

You’ve likely heard of physical therapy, but occupational therapy is not as well-known. Occupational therapy is used to help people of all ages develop, recover, or maintain the skills they need to perform their daily activities. For example, if your loved one is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, they may eventually require occupational therapy in order to continue being able to carry out daily tasks and activities, especially if they are elderly and live alone. 

How does occupational therapy work?

Occupational therapy is highly customized to each person and their needs, and includes the person’s support team of family members, caregivers, or teachers. This type of therapy teaches the person and their support team how to best navigate their daily tasks and activities, as well as the appropriate ways to assist when needed. 

What are some benefits of occupational therapy for older adults?

• Helps with memory retention and rehabilitation. Loss of mobility isn’t always strictly a physical issue for seniors, because some medical conditions and injuries can cause issues with cognitive function as well. Being unable to remember how to do your daily tasks can be hugely frustrating, especially for older adults who live alone. 
• Can help prevent falls. Falls are a huge hazard for seniors who live independently, and many families constantly worry that their loved one may fall and suffer a serious injury. Occupational therapy works to strengthen stabilizing muscles, improve balance, and teach other important fall prevention methods.
• Occupational therapists can make home modifications for a safer environment. For older adults who have lived in their homes for decades, there may be parts of their homes that simply are not safe anymore. Potential hazards include steep staircases, slippery floors especially in the bathroom, rugs that gather and bunch under foot, and sharp edges and corners.

Independent lifestyles for seniors in NJ

If you’re considering assisted living for your senior loved one, you’re likely worried about encountering resistance from them when you suggest it. Many older adults fear losing their independence and their sense of self, but at UMC at Collingswood, our assisted independent living (CCRC) community allows residents to continue living independently, while also having around the clock access to all types of care they need. 

We’ve found that occupational therapy greatly benefits our assisted living community. Just because your loved one moves into assisted living doesn’t mean they become totally reliant upon the associates there. Instead, we encourage all of our residents to remain as independent as possible for as long as it’s safe. Occupational therapists help our residents develop the skills necessary to continue their daily tasks and activities, while also enabling them to pursue new activities and interests. 

For more information about UMC at Collingswood, or if you have any questions, please contact our team today.

Original blog posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/how-occupational-therapy-can-benefit-your-loved-one/

Let’s Get Social! 5 Reasons Seniors Should Socialize More

Many seniors’ version of retirement definitely includes some peace and quiet. However, this doesn’t mean your social calendar should be. Being social benefits us more than we think. Maintaining strong relationships throughout your life is good for your emotional, mental and physical health, and can even result in a longer life span. Within this article, our assisted living associates in Gloucester County will go over the five major reasons why seniors should disrupt their daily routines to socialize more often.

5 Benefits of Senior Socialization

1. Natural stress reducer. Seniors’ stress levels are likely to be lower when they have strong friendships that keep them social. Think about it, when you have someone to confide in, someone who hears your worries and fears and then offers comfort, your stress suddenly doesn’t seem so overwhelming. Lower stress results in better cardiovascular health, a stronger immune system, and healthy sleep habits.
2. Better cognitive function. Playing interactive games with family and friends is a great way to stay social and keep the mind sharp. Activities like card or board games that challenge the brain can keep cognitive function and memory recognition strong, which are especially important as we age.
3. More opportunities for physical fitness. Working out is not always easy for seniors. Motivation comes and goes, which can make it difficult to maintain their physical health. One of the best ways to stick to an exercise routine is to have a good friend to workout with and be your accountability partner. Sharing the experience with a friend makes physical fitness feel less like work and more like fun.
4. Improves current mental health state. Feeling lonely is a common issue among older adults, but maintaining social bonds can help minimize this problem. Seniors do not feel lonely if they are often surrounded by family and friends. Staying social also reduces their risk of this loneliness escalating into something more serious like depression or anxiety. Planning a fun social outing or calling to check in with friends are just two ways that seniors can help boost their mental health.
5. Extended life span. This benefit may seem far-fetched at first, but there is research backed by the National Institute of Aging to prove that being social prolongs functional decline in health. Loneliness and social isolation are two of the major factors that impact the immune system of seniors. Older adults who maintain strong social ties, good nutrition and physical fitness generally live longer than those who do not upkeep these healthy senior living habits.

Socializing at UMC at Pitman

UMC at Pitman, our assisted living community near West Deptford NJ, provides many opportunities for seniors to have fun and socialize, while remaining safe. Our associates are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide assistance with daily tasks, including dressing, cooking and medication management. They could also recommend the best spots to meet new friends and activities on campus to take part in!

For more information on our assisted living services and events in Pitman, NJ, please give us a call or visit our website at: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2021/08/09/lets-get-social-5-reasons-seniors-should-socialize-more/

Celebrating Purple Heart Day

On August 7th our nation celebrates Purple Heart Day, honoring all those who have been wounded or killed during enemy combat while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. The Purple Heart is considered the highest distinction, reserved for those who have made a huge sacrifice for our country. Here at UMC, we want to recognize and honor our veteran community members for their bravery and their sacrifices. In this article, we’ll share some important facts about the Purple Heart medal and those who receive it. 

John F. Kennedy is the only U.S. President to receive a purple heart. You may not have known that during World War II, JFK served in the Navy and was injured in a boating accident near the Solomon Islands. His boat was sinking and there was no land in sight, and a fellow crew member was badly burned. JFK sprang into action and pulled his crew member alongside himself as he swam three miles to an island, no doubt saving the crew member’s life. In addition to the Purple Heart, JFK was also awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for his actions on that day. 

It’s the oldest military award still given to service members. The Purple Heart wasn’t always called by that name. It was originally called the Badge of Military Merit and was first awarded to recipients by George Washington in 1782. Washington designed the badge using purple cloth in the shape of a heart, hence the evolution of the award’s name. 

The first woman received a Purple Heart in 1943. While serving as a WWII combat nurse, Cordelia “Betty” Cook was injured by shrapnel in a field hospital in Italy. Despite her wounds, she continued to tend to injured soldiers, and she was later awarded both a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star for her service. 

The current record holder for Purple Hearts received is Curry T. Haynes, who was awarded nine Purple Hearts. Haynes sustained serious injuries while serving in the Army during the Vietnam War, and he passed away in 2017. 

Have any celebrities received a Purple Heart? Yes, famous Purple Heart recipients include actors James Garner, Rod Serling, and Charles Bronson, writers Oliver Stone and Kurt Vonnegut, and athletes Pat Tillman and Rocky Bleier.

Assisted living for veterans in Cape May County

At UMC at The Shores, we’re proud to provide a premier assisted living community for veterans in South Jersey and beyond. Those who have sacrificed for our nation deserve to have the highest level of care, and at The Shores we provide a personalized experience for all of our community members. We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to assisted living. Instead, we work closely with each resident to determine an In-Home care plan that caters to their needs. 

Veterans sometimes have specific medical needs, especially those who have sustained injuries while serving, and our healthcare team is available 24/7 to provide support. We also encourage our residents to continue living as independently as possible while having full access to the medical care they require. 

For more information about UMC at The Shores, or if you have any questions, please contact our team today. Discover why so many people in Cape May County choose our assisted living community for themselves or their loved ones.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/assisted-living/celebrating-purple-heart-day/

Why You Should Look Forward to Retirement Living

When you hear the phrase “assisted living,” what comes to mind? For families with loved ones who can no longer safely live alone, or for older adults who have certain medical needs, assisted living communities can be a wonderful option. Unfortunately, some people still have very outdated notions of senior living communities. They picture strict schedules, idle time spent sitting around doing nothing, and a major loss of independence. 

Luckily, modern assisted living communities could not be more different than the senior living communities of decades past! Today you’ll find that many assisted living communities are bustling places full of life, activities, new experiences, and independent older adults who retain complete control over their own daily lives. 

Assisted living communities are often the best of both worlds: they allow seniors to continue living independently, while also offering necessary care services to those who need it. This combination gives seniors and their families much-needed peace of mind.

Here’s why senior community living is something to look forward to:

• Opportunities to have many new experiences. Many assisted living communities are full of activities for residents, including exercise classes, cooking lessons, music and movie nights, arts and crafts, and much more. Whether you want to learn how to garden, learn a new language, or master the latest technology, your time in community living will be full of new experiences. 
• Surrounded by like-minded peers, and maybe some who aren’t so like-minded! As the saying goes, life would be boring if we were all the same, and senior living communities are as diverse as they come. Meeting new people who challenge us to think in new and different ways is an important part of personal growth, and we’re never too old to stop learning from people with different perspectives.
• Able to maintain your independence for as long as possible. One misconception about assisted living communities is that residents are no longer independent. At United Methodist Communities, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Our modern assisted living communities are designed to encourage independence, respecting residents’ preferences and routines while also providing any care services residents might require on a daily basis. 
• Access to any medical services you need. Most importantly, should your health needs change, or if you experience a change in mobility, you won’t have to relocate to get the medical care you need. There’s absolutely no need to uproot your life and relocate to a new community because most modern assisted living communities provide high levels of care, including skilled nursing and specialized memory support. 

Enjoying assisted living in Pitman NJ

Getting older is something to look forward to, not something to resist or to be afraid of! While many of us would love to be able to keep our loved ones at home as they age, it’s not always possible due to health issues and mobility issues. There may also come a point where older adults are simply not comfortable living alone anymore, and would rather live in a community setting with people their own age. 

When that time comes, assisted living communities like UMC at Pitman near Deptford NJ are an excellent option. We have a resident-directed approach, meaning each resident is in charge of their own schedule and receives the specific level of care they need. 

For more information about UMC at Pitman, our Gloucester County assisted living community, please contact our team today or visit our website at: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/

Original blog posted on https://umcommunities.org/assisted-living/why-you-should-look-forward-to-retirement-living/