Getting Them To Give Up The Keys

Losing independence is undoubtedly one of the hardest parts about getting older. We’re all used to a certain level of freedom in our daily lives and if we can drive ourselves wherever we want to go,  our cars are our ticket to continued independence. Being able to drive can keep older adults connected to their friends and communities, so it’s understandable that they’re hesitant to give up the keys.

However, with an increasing population of senior citizens on the road, it’s important to be able to recognize when it’s no longer safe for your senior loved ones to be behind the wheel. Having this conversation with your elderly parents can be difficult and you can expect some resistance, but remind them that it’s ultimately in the interest of everyone’s safety. Plus, with options like Uber, Lyft, and senior ride services, not being able to drive is no longer the burden it once was.

Causes of Driving Difficulties with Age

Many older adults will experience changes to their health that affect their ability to drive. Things like hearing loss, increased vision impairment, and changes to their mobility will all make driving more difficult. In addition, our reaction time slows as we age, making driving unsafe if we can’t react as quickly as needed. Certain side effects of prescription medications can also make it unsafe to drive, so it’s important to be aware and monitor any medication side effects.

While hearing aids and glasses can help with certain levels of hearing and vision loss, your loved ones’ condition may have progressed to the point that it’s no longer safe for them to be behind the wheel.

Warning Signs of an Unsafe Elderly Driver

They suddenly start getting more tickets. If your senior loved one doesn’t have any history of traffic violations or tickets, but they suddenly start receiving them, it may now be unsafe for them to drive. Try to take some drives with them and observe their driving skills, parking skills, and overall agility. If something has changed, you’ll be able to tell.

You notice scrapes and dents on their car. All cars get little nicks from time to time, but if you notice fresh scratches, scrapes, and dings on your older loved one’s car, it may be because they can no longer properly control their vehicle.

They’re reluctant to drive. If your loved one protests driving somewhere that they would usually not have an issue going, or if they seem tired, tense, or stressed after completing a short drive, they might be aware that they’re losing their agility and driving skills. Driving at night can be particularly challenging and stressful for aging seniors.

How to Talk to an Elderly Loved One About Driving

Approach the conversation with empathy. It’s important to recognize that many seniors have a legitimate fear of no longer being able to drive, and your loved one will most likely protest your suggestions that they aren’t able to drive safely anymore. Instead of arguing back and forth or creating tension, listen to their concerns and thoughts before continuing the conversation.

Discuss alternative transportation. As mentioned, most places are now served by Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare programs made especially with seniors in mind. These services  make getting from point A to point B much easier for those who don’t drive. Or, if you live in a big city with public transportation, it may be worth purchasing your loved one a train pass or a bus pass so they can still have the freedom to go where they please.

Remind them that their safety is your biggest priority. While asking your loved one to give up their keys might feel like a punishment to them, it’s actually about safety. You want them to be as safe as possible for as long as possible, and if driving puts them in an unsafe position, it’s time to think about alternatives.

If you have any questions, please contact our team at UMC today. We look forward to hearing from you.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/give-up-the-keys/

Five Tips for Transitioning to Assisted Living

For many seniors, the thought of moving to a new home in an assisted living community is an intimidating one. Resistance to the idea is very common as it’s a big adjustment, filled with worries and anxiety – which is perfectly natural! Even when the decision is in their very best interests, it can stir up a lot of “what if” scenarios. What if this isn’t the right choice for me? What if I don’t receive the right care? What if I don’t meet any new friends?

If you’re unsure about how to calm your parents’ worries about community life, here are some tips on how to manage the process of moving to assisted living.

#1 – Find the right senior community

Research is everything when you’re looking for an assisted living community that’s the right fit for your parent. It’s important to look online and visit in person while considering the following aspects:

• If the community is a good fit for your parent’s interests and personality
• If the location is ideal in terms of proximity to your loved one’s family and friends
• If the community can cater to their present and future care needs
• The cleanliness and maintenance of the buildings and gardens
• The professionalism, friendliness, and helpfulness of the staff
• The cost of services and the community’s pricing model

#2 – Try it out in person

First, visit the assisted living community of your choice on your own or with a friend or family member. Evaluate it from your loved one’s eyes, as well as your own to see how well they are suited to the community. Consider what they would like most about it, and how the care services and amenities would benefit them. Then, if it’s possible, tour it with your parents after talking to them about it. Make it a calm and relaxing visit where they can ask questions, see the living arrangements for themselves, have a meal, and talk with other residents.

If it’s suitable, you may be able to introduce them to the community on a trial basis by utilizing their onsite respite care services. Through respite, they will live in the community as if they are full-time residents, getting appropriate care services, participating in events, and trying out the amenities for themselves.

#3 – Give your parents a sense of control

The process of moving into assisted living can make your parents feel as if they are giving up their independence and control over their lives, so it’s important to encourage them to participate in the selection and moving process as much as possible. For example, they can choose how their apartment is decorated, and what personal items will be kept or sold, and you can take them shopping to choose new items for the space.

It’s also important to read through the services beforehand and have them weigh in on optional services (for example, more independent seniors may still want to cook their own food rather than eat all of their meals in the restaurant). Write up a calendar of when housekeeping services occur, introduce them to the associates who will care for them, and let them choose activities and events to sign up for.

Also, keep reassuring them about the positive aspects of the move, that you will be there to help them settle in, and that you and other loved ones will visit frequently.

#4 – Pack carefully and methodically

Set priorities for what should be packed and try to stagger the moving process. If possible, have a moving service assist you and have your parents stay at a loved one’s house while you get everything ready. After repainting or making any changes to the new apartment, move in any appropriate heavy furniture first, followed by important items like toiletries, medication, clothing, linen, and small appliances. Then, add decorative touches that make it feel like home, including photographs, artwork, and sentimental antiques.

While you are packing, plan to cancel services to the house (utilities, telephone, internet, and cable) and add their new address for bank accounts, credit cards, subscriptions, and other mail. Remember to keep records of all moving expenses, as they’re tax-deductible.

#5 – Celebrate this new stage of life together

Moving to a great assisted living community like The Shores is nothing to be sad about! Like any move, you should celebrate this new stage of life with your parents. Organize a fun family movie night at their apartment, bring everyone along to participate in community events, and explore the amenities together. This is a big move for your parents, but it’s one that delivers great quality of life and care, so take it slow and help them settle in however you can. One great idea is to have friends and family to drop in on a regular basis, which will give your parents a lot to look forward to and make them feel secure in this decision.

Visit UMC at The Shores and see how wonderful assisted living can be!

The Shores is a beautiful community offering assisted living in South Jersey. Our team is passionate about helping seniors live full and rewarding lives in a safe and welcoming environment. With a great calendar of events and social activities, some of the best dining in town, and spacious apartment-style living, we’re the best place to be for senior living.

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

Original blog posted on https://umcommunities.org/theshores/blog/five-tips-for-transitioning-to-assisted-living/

How to Celebrate Father’s Day in Assisted Living

Father’s Day is right around the corner! With the summer weather quickly approaching, it’s a great opportunity to spend time outdoors with the man who has taught you the ways of the world. This Father’s Day may be different than years past if your dad is now residing in an assisted living community. However, there are still plenty of fun and safe ways you can celebrate with your dad in assisted living. Our senior support team in Pitman NJ have put together some options to celebrate based on activities your father may enjoy.

For the dad with a sweet tooth. Does your dad go bananas for homemade chocolate chip cookies? Or maybe he has a favorite bakery in his hometown that makes the best apple pie? Whatever his vice is, surprise him with his favorite treats! Whether you pick them up already made or bring all the ingredients to bake together in his assisted living apartment – this is sure to be one sweet Father’s Day memory for him.

For the dad who loves the outdoors. Enjoying time outside in the great outdoors is definitely a part of most dads’ DNA. If that’s the case for your old man, you can plan a nice nature walk around our community grounds or take a short ride to one of Pitman’s nearby parks. Alcyon Park is only a 5-minute drive away and has a beautiful lake and wildlife to admire.

For the dad who loves a night out. The Friday after Father’s Day you can take dad into uptown Pitman for live entertainment, delicious food trucks, and other fun activities from 6 to 9 pm. From May to September, the uptown Pitman shopping district hosts a fun night out every fourth Friday of the month which always includes local music, food trucks, shopping vendors, and other activities for the whole family to take part in!

For the dad who loves quality family time. When in doubt, keep it simple. Your dad will just love spending time with you this Father’s Day. So, pack up the family and come visit him in assisted living for the day. If the weather is nice, you can plan a picnic and enjoy some time outside with dad on the patio or under the gazebo. Plan B, if the weather does not hold up, you can enjoy a meal together in our community dining room with other residents and their families.

Celebrating Father’s Day at UMC at Pitman

UMC at Pitman 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! Give us a call today to see what we have planned for Father’s Day, as there is always something new and exciting going on at UMC at Pitman!

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

Original blog posted on https://umcommunities.org/pitman/blog/how-to-celebrate-fathers-day-in-assisted-living/

The Healing Power of Music

 

As we get older, our body, that reliable servant for so many years, may begin to betray us. But the healing power of music can transport us out of a limited world into an limitless one of feeling, memory, and imagination. Music is a wonderful way of connecting with loved ones with dementia conditions and may even provide the motivation to get up and dance! There are as many beloved pieces of music as there are seniors, but here are our playlists of music for seniors that connect with the decade they were born.

Why music is so beneficial to seniors

Music is an important part of almost all cultures and traditions, and has a wonderful effect of transporting us emotionally through our memories. For seniors, music has wonderful health benefits, including:

• Creating a connection with others, helping to alleviate loneliness, depression, and anxiety.
• Exercising the brain by giving the connections between pattern recognition, memory, and logic a workout.
• Stimulating recollections, as music is stored in a different area of the brain to speech, helping people to visualize themselves in a particular place and time.
• Physical exercise through dancing, practicing a rhythm, or keeping someone motivated and focused through an exercise routine.
• Creating peace and comfort, soothing the mind and body, and creating a sense of wellbeing. Music can even help reduce pain and improve healing in those recovering from illness or surgery and can ease the mind during the last stages of life.

1930's 

The children of the 30's came up during the great depression, an experience that most never forget. But in the post WWII era, they were comforted by the sounds of Benny Goodman, Glenn Miller, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and jazz greats like Bird, Dizzy Gillespie, Bill Evans, Ella Fitzgerald, and a young Miles Davis.

1940's 

Those born in the 40's came of age in the 50's and 60's and had the rare privilege of witnessing the birth of rock ‘n roll and a peace movement that inspired some of the world’s most enduring poetry. This is the age of the great Elvis Presley, the Beatles, Bob Dylan, and Joni Mitchell.

1950's 

Children of the 50's started dancing in the 70's - the golden age of rock and roll. Think Led Zeppelin, The Who, Pink Floyd, the Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, The Allman Brothers and so many more. And let’s not forget Disco which yielded the anthem..."Stayin' alive, Stayin' alive”!

1960's

Few generations had music as memorable as children of the 60's, who experienced the best of the 70s as well as the new wave of the 80's rock and the rise of hair bands!  There was Michael Jackson and Prince, but also a Flock of Seagulls, the Clash, and the birth of heavy metal and punk. 

Classical music

Regardless of when you were born, classical music is, well, classic! It never gets old, and for some it never fails to excite, calm, and transform. You don't have to be a musician to feel the power of great classical compositions and performances such as Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata, Handel’s Messiah, Straus’s Blue Danube, Wagner’s Ring Cycle, and Puccini’s Tosca. 

Looking for high quality at home care for the elderly in NJ?

At-home care for the elderly is a great middle-ground between independent seniors who want to stay at home and a move into assisted living. These services, provided by United Methodist Communities’s HomeWorks program, deliver the additional assistance seniors need to stay healthy and lead a fulfilling life in the comfort of their own home and community. 

Chat to us today to find out more about getting a part-time or live-in home health aide in New Jersey, or visit our website

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

This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/homeworks/blog/the-healing-power-of-music/

How to Get Family to Help your Senior Parents

Caregiving for a senior loved one is tough without any support. It can be especially frustrating if there are other family members who do not help out as often as they should. It’s important to understand that your family members may have good intentions, but need some help with direction. If you have been the main caregiver for mom or dad, this is your chance to step up and delegate responsibilities to your other siblings. Here are some tactics to help family members get more involved with senior caregiving from our assisted living specialists in Camden County.

Tip #1: Have them understand why you need help. Oftentimes, it’s not that your siblings don’t want to help, it’s more so a lack of understanding about the situation at hand. Maybe your senior parent keeps downplaying the type of help they need. Maybe you make it seem like you have it all under control, when you’re really drowning. It’s important to be straightforward with your siblings about your parent’s condition, and an easy way to do this is to show them “the proof in the pudding.” For example, share mom or dad’s current list of medications and how often they have to take them, their upcoming doctor appointments, and what their daily routine looks like.

Tip #2: Have them observe a typical day with mom or dad. As mentioned above, seeing is believing. It’s one thing to tell someone how hard of a time you’re having versus them actually seeing it with their own eyes. Your siblings will understand the extent of help you need if they can observe and take note of what a normal day of caregiving looks like. Do you have to remind dad to take his morning pills? Does mom now require help manning the stove and prepping meals? These are tasks your siblings should be aware of to get a full grasp on how taxing full-time care could be on just one person.

Tip #3: Delegate tasks to each sibling that make sense to them. It’s important to not only be straightforward but also specific about what kind of help you need with your senior parent. It could also be beneficial to everyone if you delegate tasks according to your siblings’ skillsets. For example, if your sister is great at doing hair and makeup, she can shoot over to mom’s in the mornings to help her get dressed and ready for the day. Or if your brother is good with numbers, he can balance your dad’s checkbook or make sure he’s set up for the week with the right doses of medication. Before delegating responsibilities, be conscious of what your siblings have going on as well. Maybe they work full-time and can only be available on weekends. Or maybe their weekends are filled with extracurricular activities for their children and they have some downtime on weekdays.

Compassionate assisted living for seniors in Collingswood

If you’ve tried the methods above and have found no success, it’s important not to beat yourself up about it. Caregiving is hard work, especially if you don’t have any support. If your siblings can’t make it work with their schedules or aren’t cut out for the type of work involved, it may be time to look into a better solution that ensures your senior parents will receive the type of care they truly need and deserve.

At our assisted living community in Collingswood, associates are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to care for our senior residents and to engage with them through fun events and daily activities. The initial transition to assisted living takes some adjusting. However, we can tell you from experience that once mom or dad settles in and sees all that community life has to offer, they will wonder why they put up a fight in the first place!

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

Original blog posted on https://umcommunities.org/collingswood/blog/how-to-get-family-to-help-your-senior-parents/

What is a CCRC accredited senior living community?

Have you had a talk with mom and dad? If it’s time for them to move into a senior community, it can be overwhelming to decide on the one that makes the most sense for your senior parents. During your search, you come across terms you may not be familiar with, like “CCRC.”

United Methodist Communities at Bristol Glen is a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) in New Jersey, and can adjust each resident’s level of care as needed. There are many benefits of living in this type of senior living community, and we’ve outlined them for you within this article.

What exactly is a CCRC?

A CCRC is a community that provides the scalable services and living arrangements that any senior needs. If mom or dad is still very independent, they can live in the community on their own terms,  and otherwise go about their usual routines. It’s a flexible approach to senior living where the resident gets to run their own life while reaping the benefits of community living.

Who lives in a CCRC?

All types of seniors can be catered to in a CCRC! If dad is newly retired and simply wants to downsize to a more manageable home while he travels and enjoys retirement, then these fully serviced and maintained properties are the ideal lock-up-and-go. If mom is getting older and wants the convenience of in-house dining, but also a lively social calendar and a chance to make more friends, this is also a great choice. And finally, if mom or dad needs extra help with day-to-day activities, managing a chronic health condition, or even has a memory loss condition that requires 24/7 attention, a CCRC like Bristol Glen can assist with that too.

Seniors of all ages, abilities, and lifestyles live at our CCRC because their experience is tailored to their needs, making it the ideal choice for them and their families!

Scalable services that work as residents age

At our CCRC in NJ, our philosophy focuses on abundant living and aging in place. Essentially, every activity and service is ready and waiting for your senior parent, but it’s supplied at their discretion. This means they can scale services up or down as needed (for example, if dad develops dementia or if he needs nursing care after an operation or illness). Perhaps, the best part is they’ll never have to move again. All care services are provided on-site, ensuring that your parent stays in the comfort of their own home for as long as possible.

These services are also designed to add quality of life and convenience to everyday living. Your loved one may not need medication management or nursing now, but having access to an onsite restaurant, gym, beauty salon, housekeeping services, community clubs, and social events are all wonderful options for a full and active life in a CCRC!

Find out more about our senior living community in Sussex County NJ

If you have any questions about independent senior living, it’s time to talk with our team at Bristol Glen. We take pride in providing a CCRC in Sussex County that gives all of our residents – no matter their medical needs or mobility restrictions – a fulfilling, active, and abundant life.

Contact us today for more information on CCRC benefits or visit our website at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/blog/what-is-a-ccrc-accredited-senior-living-community/

Adjusting your Diet for High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, occurs when your blood pressure is unusually high. Many of us have our blood pressure checked as part of our routine doctor’s visits, which is important because there are generally no symptoms of having high blood pressure.

While there may not be any symptoms of high blood pressure, it can certainly have a negative effect on your health. Having high blood pressure puts constant strain on your blood vessels, heart, brain, kidneys, and even your eyes. It can also increase your risk of other serious and often life-threatening conditions like heart attack, heart disease, heart failure, kidney disease, and strokes.

If you or a senior loved one has recently been diagnosed with high blood pressure, the good news is that you can lower it with a few small lifestyle changes! Even lowering your blood pressure a little bit can greatly improve your health. As with most things, diet is key, so here’s how to adjust your diet to help lower your blood pressure.

Track What You Eat

Do you have any idea how many calories you eat every day? How many grams of protein? What about your average daily sodium intake? Most of us don’t keep track of everything we eat and drink on a daily basis, but if you’re diagnosed with high blood pressure, tracking your food can help you better understand if you’re eating too much or too little.

There are many free food tracking apps like My Fitness Pal that you can use to track what you eat on a daily basis. You may be eating much more than you think, and getting control of your diet and portion sizes will help you lower your blood pressure.

Alcohol can also have a negative impact on your blood pressure, so cutting back on your alcohol consumption is recommended.

Avoid Salt (Sodium)

For many people, a diet high in sodium will increase blood pressure. While we all get cravings for salty snacks every once in a while, it’s recommended to keep salty foods to a minimum if you’re trying to lower your blood pressure. Tracking your food will help you be aware of how much sodium you’re consuming on a daily basis.

You can reduce your sodium intake by avoiding processed foods, using salt-free seasonings and spices, eating fewer fast foods, and asking restaurants to please skip the salt when you eat out. Many restaurants also have low-sodium options, so check the menu or ask your server.

Know What to Eat

There are many delicious foods you can incorporate into your diet that work to lower your blood pressure. Look for foods with potassium, magnesium and fiber. Fruits, vegetables, lean meats, nuts, seeds, and legumes are all excellent sources of magnesium, so incorporating them into your regular diet will be very beneficial to you as you work to lower your blood pressure.

If you have any questions about how to create an appropriate diet for high blood pressure, or if you’d like more information about helping your older loved one manage their high blood pressure, please contact our team at UMC today. We look forward to hearing from you.

Original blog posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/high-blood-pressure-diet/

Senior Depression – What is it and What are the Signs

Senior depression is more common than you might realize, and it can also be more difficult to diagnose because the symptoms can be incorrectly attributed to other illnesses, or medication side effects. Common conditions like insomnia can put older adults at higher risk for developing depression, so it’s important that you’re able to recognize potential signs of senior depression in your loved ones.

How Does Depression in Seniors Differ From Depression in Younger Adults?

Because seniors often have more complex health needs than younger people, depression affects them differently, and usually more severely. When older adults are recovering from an illness or an injury and they experience depression, it can interfere with their recovery and slow down their progress. For example, a senior who has mobility issues due to an injury and needs assistance walking around, who also has depression, may have a more difficult time recovering due to compounding symptoms.

The signs of depression in seniors may not be immediately obvious. They might feel tired, experience insomnia, move more slowly than usual, lose interest in activities they used to enjoy, or have changes in their weight and appetite. Many of these symptoms are commonly associated with getting older in general, so depression may not come to mind immediately.

How Is Insomnia Related to Depression in Older Adults?

For seniors, insomnia is usually a symptom of depression. Seniors who are diagnosed with insomnia are also at greater risk for developing new depression, or having their depression return. If your older loved one is having prolonged problems sleeping or you don’t think they’re getting enough sleep every night, it’s worth speaking with their doctor.

While there are various medications doctors prescribe to help people sleep, often experts prefer to treat insomnia in seniors using melatonin or low-dose antidepressants. Many of the commonly-prescribed sleep medications like Lunesta can be too strong for older adults.

Seniors at High Risk for Depression

Certain demographics are at a higher risk for developing depression, including women, people who are single, widowed, or divorced, and those who are lacking in social support, like a network of friends. Seniors who have gone through very stressful events, like grieving the recent loss of a loved one, and those who have a history of substance abuse are at a higher risk for developing depression.

Seniors who have a family history of depression, or physical conditions that can put them at a higher risk, including strokes, dementia, cancer, chronic pain, hypertension, and diabetes can increase the likelihood of developing depression. Our health and mobility changes a lot as we age, and it can be difficult to come to terms with our new reality, especially for those who have always been fiercely independent.

If you have any questions about how to help a senior in your life who you suspect is suffering from depression, or if you’d like more information, please contact our team at UMC today. We look forward to hearing from you.

Original blog posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/senior-depression-signs/

How Does Respite Care Work?

Respite care is a valuable service for every family caregiver, helping to prevent burnout and provide professional support for mom or dad when you need a break. This care service works by supplying your loved one with a professional, qualified caregiver or nurse on an as-needed basis, to alleviate a good amount of your caregiving responsibilities. Respite can be provided regularly, a few times a week, or circumstantially. For example, if you are planning a much-needed summer vacation and want to ensure mom and dad are in the right hands while you are away, respite would be an excellent option for you.

If this sounds like a viable option for you and your loved one, here are some of the most important benefits of respite care services to consider when you are caring for your mom and dad.

#1 – Respite provides supplementary skills

It can be very challenging, if not impossible, to manage complex health needs when you aren’t a trained nurse. A skilled respite nurse can supplement your skills and support you when your loved one’s care needs are beyond your medical expertise. For example, if your parent has just come out of the hospital, your respite caregiver can come in to manage tasks like bathing and wound care, rehabilitation, or nursing care.

#2 – Respite provides essential caregiver support

Many caregivers simply don’t have the support they need to properly care for a senior parent and end up trying to do it all themselves, like Superman or Wonder Woman. This is very difficult for anyone to handle and can quickly lead to the dreaded “caregiver burnout.” Respite caregivers are there to provide that extra support, so you don’t have to do it all, all the time. They can take over when you need a break, give you advice on how to manage your parent’s chronic impairment or illness, and take a load off your shoulders.

#3 – Respite improves social engagement

Caregivers often find themselves in situations where they become isolated from friends and family, especially when their loved one needs constant care. This isolation, as well as the demanding work of caregiving, can lead to mental and emotional breakdowns, anxiety, and even depression. Respite care is self-care for family caregivers, giving you the freedom to see friends and family, participate in your community, and take vacations. This social engagement isn’t selfish, it’s crucial to your wellbeing and the quality of care you’re able to provide.

#4 – Respite supports your sense of identity

Family caregivers often see themselves defined by that role, pushing aside all other aspects of their identity. However, it’s very important to your mental and physical wellbeing that you can strike a balance between all your roles – parent, friend, coworker – and not just be defined by being a caregiver. This is very difficult to do if you are the sole caregiver, but that’s where respite care comes in. It allows you to step out of that caregiver role and dedicate time and energy to other aspects of your life and who you are.

#5 – Respite supports healthy relationships

As a caregiver, you spend a lot of time with your parents – and that can create stress, friction, and frustration on both sides. It also means that so much time is spent on taking care of their basic needs that you don’t spend and enjoy much quality time together. This can put a lot of strain on this important relationship. Having a respite caregiver pop in and take over some of the day-to-day care work gives both parties a breather from one another. It also relieves friction by giving your parent someone else to interact with and creates more space where you can have fun together.

#6 – Respite is a stepping stone into community life

Caregiving is as much about considering the future as it is dealing with present challenges. If your parent has been hesitant about going into assisted living but their health is declining, then respite care is a good way to ease them into this environment. At The Shores, respite care residents live alongside permanent residents in the community and get to see exactly what it’s like to be here. They can try out the meals and apartments, get to know residents, participate in community events, and enjoy the beautiful nearby shore towns. This is one of the best ways to get over the fear of what assisted living might be like – showing them the reality of a welcoming community like The Shores!

Respite care services in New Jersey from UMC at The Shores

If you are looking for professionals to help you care for your loved one, either on a temporary or permanent basis, please don’t hesitate to visit our website or call our team. The initial consultation is no obligation, of course, and you’ll quickly see how we can fit into your caregiving team to provide your loved ones with the support, care, and fulfilling life they deserve. You can find out more about respite care at The Shores at: https://umcommunities.org/theshores/

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/theshores/the-shores/how-does-respite-care-work/

Dementia Communication Tips That Actually Work

Seniors with dementia often struggle with communication, especially in the later stages of the disease. Common communication issues include struggling to find the right word in conversation, finding it difficult to complete a train of thought, and repeating the same sentence or thought multiple times throughout the conversation. These issues can be hard to cope with at first, especially since this is your loved one. However, it’s important to stay positive and learn new strategies to effectively communicate. Here are 5 tips that actually work, provided by our memory caregivers in Gloucester County.

Tip #1: Making an optimal environment for communication. Set the tone for good communication to happen by ensuring that you and your loved one are in a quiet and calm space. Also, turn off any loud or visually distracting devices like TVs, computers, radios or bright overhead lights. Busy, stimulating spaces are harder for people with dementia to navigate, especially if they are trying to focus on a specific train of thought.

Tip #2: Ensure all their needs are met beforehand. Has dad eaten lunch yet? Did mom take her morning pills? It’s important that your loved one’s personal and medical needs are met before attempting to have any constructive conversations. If your loved one is hungry, or worse – in pain, it can be very difficult for them to pay attention to the task at hand.

Tip #3: Clear your schedule so you have enough time. Patience is key when it comes to communicating with your loved one with dementia. If you’re feeling rushed to get to another commitment, it’s easy for your patience to wear thin. With that said, plan your day accordingly – take care of other commitments before sitting down and having quality time and communication with mom or dad.

Tip #4: Prepare conversation topics and put yourself in their shoes. Think about previous conversations that went over well with mom or dad – why did they go so well? Was the conversation about a beloved long-term memory like mom hosting for the holidays? Or was the conversation successful because you really engaged with what dad was saying, even if it wasn’t necessarily true? It helps to prepare conversation topics ahead of time that you know will have a positive impact on your loved one. It also helps to really think about what you would need from a conversation to feel validated, i.e. positive body language like more eye contact or nodding in agreement.

Tip #5: Positive reinforcement. If your loved one is talking up a storm and then stops suddenly, gently encourage them to keep going through verbal and non-verbal cues. As mentioned above, be conscious to make more eye contact or nod here and there. If they seem frustrated, for example, if they can’t find the right word for something, ask them to describe the object instead. Whatever cue you decide to take, keep your cool and try to stay positive. Even if your loved one becomes upset and you’re not sure how to stay positive, just show you’re really listening. After they express their concerns, reiterate you are there for them no matter what – because after all sometimes all we really need is for someone to listen.

Dementia support for seniors in Gloucester County

It’s not easy to care for a loved one with memory loss without any support, especially if your loved one’s condition worsens and is beyond your repertoire of knowledge. It truly takes a village to care for a loved one with dementia, and sometimes the best care can no longer be provided at home.

At Pitman, our Tapestries® memory care neighborhood has welcoming, dementia-safe apartments where seniors are encouraged to enjoy their hobbies, release their tensions, and have meaningful conversations every day. Our security personnel, as well as Life Enrichment Team Specialists, are on site 24/7 to ensure your loved one has the best care at all hours of the day.

If your loved one is showing early signs of dementia and you are having difficulty caring for them, please call 856-369-3092 to find out whether a move to a dedicated memory care community is the right option. To learn more about advanced memory care in Gloucester County, please contact United Methodist Communities at Pitman or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/pitman/

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/pitman/blog/dementia-communication-tips-that-actually-work/

In Home Health Like All Things, Personality Matters

 Hiring a home health aide for your loved one can be a little nerve racking. After all, you need to be able to fully trust this person and feel comfortable with them in your or your loved one’s home. Thankfully, our experts at UMC HomeWorks can help! Not only can we find you that person you can trust, but we’ll also match you with a caregiver who will truly feel like part of the family. Besides qualifications and experience, we prioritize supplying at home health aides in NJ who are:

Patient

Being a caregiver isn’t always easy, and it can have stressful moments where patience is necessary. Some seniors can have health conditions that make them more likely to feel confused, stubborn, anxious, or scared, or affect their physical mobility, speed, and strength. Our caregivers are selected for their patience and understanding because these qualities allow your loved one to move at their own pace, do things for themselves, and facilitate their independence in a safe environment.

Empathetic

Empathy is high up on the list for any caregiver, especially one who works with the elderly. By being able to put themselves in the shoes of the person they’re caring for, a good home health aide is better at every aspect of their job! Empathy allows you to better understand what the senior is going through, how their health or loss of independence makes them feel, and even helps you better anticipate their needs and evaluate their wellbeing. 

Self-motivating and adaptable

Caregiving isn’t suited to a person who has a strict regime, who doesn’t have passion for the work, or who isn’t willing to go the extra mile. Looking after an elderly person is truly a labor of love. Situations in healthcare can change in a moment, so our team of health aides is highly flexible and adaptable. Our home health aides are trained to respond quickly and efficiently to all possible situations. They are flexible and can provide respite care, post-surgical and rehabilitation care, night nursing, and much more

Great communicators

Communication is essential between the caregivers and seniors, and our caregivers speak with empathy and compassion. This will build a connection and create a relationship that allows your senior to feel safe and to freely express their needs. Additionally, caregivers play an important role in keeping family in the loop about their loved ones and communicating with doctors and other health care professionals. This means that everyone has access to the right information when they need to make decisions, as well as giving you peace of mind on how your loved one is doing.

Professional

Caring for someone’s elderly loved on is very personal and significant work, as it involves their health and wellbeing. This makes professionalism absolutely essential, giving you and your loved one attention to detail, tact, confidentiality, and reliability your personal situation requires. It also makes it easier for seniors and loved ones to manage the intimate nature of this role and welcome these services, making a home health aide a comfortable and reassuring presence in your home and not an intrusion.

Qualified, compassionate, and passionate about senior care – Hire a home health aide in New Jersey

If your loved one needs a helping hand to maintain their independence and health at home, chat to the team at UMC HomeWorks about getting a qualified, experienced, and trustworthy home health aide in NJ. You can also look at our website for more information on how our innovative in home senior care program works:

https://umcommunities.org/homeworks/senior-care-new-jersey/

 This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/homeworks/blog/in-home-health-like-all-things-personality-matters/

Post-Hospitalization Rehab: 5 Indisputable Benefits

Sometimes seniors need a little more time and resources to recover after being hospitalized. Oftentimes, these resources aren’t available at home. At UMC at Collingswood, we’re proud to offer expert post-hospitalization rehabilitation services (also known as short-term rehab) to assist seniors in their recovery from falls, surgical procedures, and illnesses. Our physical and occupational therapists have found that starting these services as early as possible after hospitalization significantly decreases the risk of “functional decline” and helps seniors to regain and hang onto their independence longer.

If your loved one is looking for a facility that offers short-term rehab, please take a look at the 5 most important benefits of UMC’s professional services, compiled by our post-hospitalization rehab team at United Methodist Communities.

1. Physical Therapy. Perhaps the biggest benefit of post-hospitalization rehab is the personalized physical therapy plans for seniors. Once your loved one enters our care, our physical therapists perform a full evaluation to determine their current physical capabilities, and what they should be able to regain through a regular program. For example, if your loved one was just hospitalized for a fall that has negatively impacted their mobility, their physical therapy will focus on strengthening the legs, core, and hips through various exercises. The exercises will target trouble spots, loosen joints and expand their range of motion.
2. Occupational Therapy. OT is designed to help seniors jump back into their day-to-day lives by performing ADLs (activities of daily living). These include eating without support, getting dressed, bathing, going to the bathroom, and other tasks around the house. This type of therapy can also help seniors with vision or memory loss by engaging them in cognitive exercises like word puzzles and color-coding items around them so they appear more visible.
3. Speech Therapy. If your loved one was hospitalized for a stroke, they may require help with their speech post-hospitalization. Our speech specialists (on-site 24 hours a day) can help your senior parent relearn their speech through articulation, oral motor, and VitalStim therapies. Articulation helps them produce different sounds correctly, the oral motor helps them strengthen muscles related to the mouth, and VitalStim can help them regain the ability to swallow. All three methods work together to support the road towards recovering your loved one’s ability to talk coherently and without pain.
4. Decreases risk of further injury and falls. Falling is the major catalyst of severe injuries in seniors. What’s worse is once a fall happens, it’s likely that it will happen again in the future without proper treatment and prevention techniques. The combination of physical and occupational therapy is one of the most effective ways to prevent falls. With physical therapy, your loved ones can improve their stability through different balance techniques and exercises. At the same time, occupational therapy can improve their basic motor skills and range of motion to sharpen their reflexes and avoid potentially dangerous situations.
5. Reduces the need for prescriptions. As mentioned above, the physical therapy that takes place in post-hospitalization rehab helps loosen the joints and build strength to help offset painful symptoms. In addition, rehab therapists can teach different exercises designed to reduce the discomfort of seniors living with chronic pain, that as arthritis for example. With that being said, post-hospitalization rehab can help ease chronic pain, which means there will be less need for prescription painkillers. This is a great benefit because there are usually complications when it comes to adding a new medication to a senior’s roster. The last thing you want your loved one to deal with after getting out of the hospital is unpleasant side effects like vomiting, diarrhea, and migraines.

Regain independence with post-hospitalization rehab in Camden County, NJ

Moving everyday is key to maintaining senior independence. Taking part in regular physical and occupational therapies keeps seniors strong enough to perform ADLs on their own with a renewed sense of confidence. At UMC at Collingswood, post-hospitalization rehab entails different types of PT and OT  from highly-skilled specialists with the goal of restoring your loved one’s mobility, confidence, and most of all – their independence. Our residents in post-hospitalization rehab are also able to access assisted living services, such as dining options, community events, and group social activities with other residents.

Contact United Methodist Communities at Collingswood to find out how we are leading the way in post-hospitalization rehab care for seniors in New Jersey. Our dedicated associates available 7 days a week will be able to answer any questions you may have about all of the care services offered at our senior community in Camden County, NJ. For more information about UMC at Collingswood, please visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/collingswood/

Original blog posted on https://umcommunities.org/collingswood/collingswood/post-hospitalization-rehab-5-indisputable-benefits/

Is it time to make the move to Assisted Living?

Trying to decide when to help your parent make the transition to assisted living is often difficult and stressful, especially if mom or dad has reservations about the idea. As it turns out, a good amount of people still have negative connotations about senior communities. Outdated stereotypes, such as being confined to a small, clinical-looking room with minimal interaction, are all too common. Fortunately, they are very far from the truth! Modern assisted living communities, especially progressive organizations like UMC, prioritize all areas of wellness for their residents by constantly updating their services and extracurricular activities offered on-site. Full-service UMC communities have the bandwidth to provide high-level care like that of a nursing home, but without the stereotypical “nursing home” feel. With that being said, the main thing to keep in mind is that not moving mom or dad into assisted living when it’s needed can put their health and quality of life at risk!

If you’re not sure if it’s time for mom or dad to make a change, here are some strong indicators that show it’s time to have a conversation about moving into assisted living.

#1 – Increasing health complications

Around 80% of older adults suffer from at least one chronic health condition, and many have multiple health concerns to maintain. These can become very difficult to manage independently or even with the help of a family member. Increased care needs are better managed by professionals who are not only able to supply the help they need now, but are trained to watch for other health concerns, monitor medication, and act quickly in an emergency situation. In assisted living, all residents have 24/7 access to a care team who is experienced in treating chronic illnesses, nursing care, medication management, and much more.

#2 – Neglected hygiene

One of the first signs that an older adult is struggling is neglect in their hygiene and personal care. In the ill and elderly, bathing, grooming, and taking care of everyday hygiene can be difficult and exhausting, or they may even be unaware that they are forgetting to take care of themselves. Signs of neglect include bad body odor, unkempt and dirty hair, dirty nails that are too long, and clothing that appears too small, damaged or unwashed. Poor hygiene can lead to health complications and a poor quality of life, but it can be addressed and reversed with the help of knowledgeable, trained associates in an assisted living community.

#3 – Safety issues

Home can easily become an unsafe space as we get older and experience changes in mobility. Falls in the home are the leading cause of emergency room visits, severe injuries, and even injury-related deaths in senior adults. Furthermore, senior forgetfulness can cause wandering, fires, and dangerous use of medication when unsupervised for long periods of time. In an assisted living community, apartments are designed to optimize safety. In addition, associates who are on-site all day, every day are trained to help residents move safely around campus to prevent falls. Should a resident find themselves in a sticky situation, they can activate their 24-hour alert pendant and receive advanced medical care almost immediately if needed.

#4 – Isolation

As we’ve seen during the pandemic, isolation has a very powerful impact on our mental and physical wellbeing. For elderly people who are less mobile, restricted by health conditions, or unable to travel independently, isolation can be devastating to manage. It’s a primary cause of depression and anxiety in seniors and can lead to severe mental and physical decline. Assisted living communities are much more than medical and housing facilities and are actually a great source of support for seniors. With an event-filled social calendar, clubs of all varieties, and plenty of neighbors to socialize with, a good assisted living community helps seniors to reconnect with the outside world and alleviate loneliness.

Find the best assisted living community in Sussex County

Bristol Glen is part of the United Methodist Community network, a collection of assisted living communities in New Jersey dedicated to supporting abundant and independent living for all seniors. Our apartment-style living, dedicated care teams, wide range of personal care services, vibrant social calendar, and beautiful grounds are just some of the reasons why we earned a place on the U.S. News Best Nursing Homes and Short-Stay Rehabilitation Lists!

If you want to find out more about our approach to assisted living in New Jersey, then please get in touch today or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/bristol-glen/is-it-time-to-make-the-move-to-assisted-living/