Celebrating National Grandparents Day

September 12th is National Grandparents Day! If you’re looking for some fun ways to celebrate these special people in your life, our assisted living team has put together some ideas that the whole family will enjoy. Whether you see your grandparents on a regular basis or only a few times a year, September 12th is a special day to look forward to.

Treat them to a day out full of their favorite things.

Grandparents are notorious for showering their grandchildren with love, affection, gifts, and generally spoiling them rotten. Wouldn’t it be nice for you to do the same for them? September is a beautiful time of year and if your grandparents enjoy outdoor activities, you can spend the day in your local park accompanied by a picnic lunch. Or maybe you want to have a girls day out and get your hair and nails done, followed by a trip to the mall. Whatever your grandparents enjoy, treat them to a day full of it.

Host a big family dinner.

We all lead busy lives and don’t always get together as a family as often as we’d like. Between work, school, and kids, it’s easy for weeks to go by without sitting down together for a family dinner. For National Grandparents Day, we recommend cooking all your grandparents’ favorite dishes and treating them to a special evening surrounded by loved ones. 

Join them in one of their hobbies or interests.

Many people have different interests than their grandparents. Perhaps your grandparents love gardening, painting, and watching old movies, but you aren’t really into those things. It would mean a lot to them if, on National Grandparents Day, you showed enthusiasm for their interests and joined them in their favorite activities. You can accompany them out in the garden for the day, then settle in for an old movie marathon while enjoying classic movie theater snacks together. 

Volunteer at an assisted living community.

It’s important to remember that not everyone has family, and even those who do may not have any family living nearby. Check in with your local assisted living community and ask if you can volunteer to visit residents who don’t have any family. It will be wonderful for them to have someone to spend time with, and volunteering at assisted living communities is a hugely rewarding experience for both you and the residents.

Independent lifestyles for seniors in NJ

Anyone who has ever tried to have a conversation with their aging parents about moving into an assisted living community knows how difficult it can be. Our parents are often resistant to the idea of assisted living because of outdated cliches and misinformation. They think assisted living means losing freedom, losing independence, and losing their sense of self. 

Luckily for our parents, senior living communities have evolved for the better throughout the years. Now, many assisted living communities are nearly indistinguishable from an average apartment complex, with a vibrant atmosphere, bustling social activities, and residents coming and going as they please. There are no strict schedules, no mandated activities, and people are encouraged to pursue new hobbies and maintain their independence for as long as possible. 

For more information about UMC at Collingswood, or if you have any questions about today’s assisted living lifestyle, please contact our team today. Discover why so many people in Camden County NJ choose our assisted living community for themselves and their loved ones.

Original blog posted on https://umcommunities.org/assisted-living/celebrating-national-grandparents-day/

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/

How Does Assisted Living Compare to Long-Term Care?

 

Are you considering assisted living or long-term care for an older loved one? You may be wondering what the differences are, and which option is the best for your circumstances. Both assisted living and long term care share a common goal: to ensure senior residents live as safely and as comfortably as possible. 

Many senior living communities provide both assisted living and long term care, and in this article we’ll discuss some of the key differences and similarities. The team at United Methodist Communities hopes you find this information helpful in choosing the best living arrangement for your loved one.

Key similarities between assisted living and long-term care

• Safety. Both living arrangements are designed to maximize the safety of all residents, including things like wide, flat staircases with very secure handrails and grab bars in every restroom. You also won’t find any tripping hazards like rugs that can get caught underfoot, or slippery surfaces. Safety also includes things like alarm systems and security guards for around-the-clock protection. Residents may also keep 24 hour alert pendants on their person in case of emergency.
• Help with medication management. Those who are on several medications often need help remembering which medications to take when. Associates are onsite to help avoid any missed doses and prevent any mix-ups. 
• Support with daily life, including help with personal hygiene, light cleaning, daily exercise, and more. People in assisted living and long term care greatly benefit from having daily support.
• Proper nutrition. Seniors will enjoy delicious meals throughout the day to ensure they are properly nourishing their bodies. 

Key differences between assisted living and long-term care

• The level of support. People who live in assisted living communities may not have serious mobility or medical issues that affect their quality of life. However, they may still require a level of support (or assistance) here and there on a daily basis. Long-term care residences, also known as skilled nursing communities, are more commonly used by people who require 24/7 support and medical attention. 
• The extent of services offered. Long-term care communities offer more services because the residents generally require a more comprehensive level of care. Things like assistance using the bathroom, full-time health monitoring, and support with mobility are all common services you’ll find in long-term care. While assisted living offers help with daily tasks when needed and encourages residents to continue living a more independent lifestyle.  
• The set-up. If you’ve ever visited an assisted living community, you probably noticed how it feels exactly like an apartment complex, with residents coming and going as they please. On the other hand, in nursing communities, it will be more common to see medical equipment and associates present with residents at all times. 
• Independent lifestyles for seniors in Camden County, NJ 

The level of care and support your loved one needs will determine which option is best for them. Many senior living communities have both assisted living and long-term care neighborhoods on the same grounds. With each one striving to support and uplift residents, while keeping them safe and comfortable. 

At UMC at Collingswood, you’ll see independent living for seniors in full swing. Our full-service assisted living community helps residents remain independent for as long as possible, while offering the help they need with things like maintenance and handyman work, housekeeping services, medication reminders, personal hygiene assistance, and much more. 

For more information about Collingswood, our assisted living community in Camden County NJ, please contact our team today or visit our website at: https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/assisted-living-south-jersey/

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/how-does-assisted-living-compare-to-long-term-care/

Spring Activities for Seniors

 

At United Methodist Communities at Collingswood, our assisted living community in Camden County NJ, we’re so excited that spring has sprung! Bluer skies, warmer temperatures, and blooming flowers mean that we can resume some of our favorite outdoor activities now that winter has passed. 

It’s no secret that being outside in the fresh air and engaging in daily activity, even if it’s just walking, makes you feel better mentally, physically and emotionally. Keeping yourself active as you age is very important, and at Collingswood we encourage our residents to pursue their outdoor hobbies and interests (weather permitting, of course). 

Spring activities seniors can enjoy in New Jersey

Have a picnic. Warm sunshine, soft green grass, and enjoying nature are quite inviting, so why not take full advantage of spending some time outside? Create a picnic basket filled with all your favorite snacks and beverages. Find a place outdoors, like a park or patio, where you can relax and enjoy your meal. Invite a friend you haven’t seen in awhile and spend a lovely, COVID-safe afternoon together in the fresh air. 

Go for a walk. Staying active is not only fun, it’s essential as you get older. Physical activity, including walking, helps maintain healthy circulation, healthy muscles, a healthy heart, healthy lungs, and so much more. Now that temperatures are starting to rise, we recommend incorporating a walk into your daily routine. You can even form a walking group with neighbors, it’s a great way to spend more time together and stay active.

Start an outdoor container garden. Gardening has many benefits. Many seniors are unable to get on their hands and knees and use heavy gardening equipment, so a container garden is a great alternative because it requires little maintenance. You can start a container garden on an outdoor table, or perhaps on a large window sill in your living space.

Birdwatching. Do you know how many different species of birds can be found in your local area? Have you ever visited your local bird watching spots to try and find them? Birdwatching is a popular outdoor hobby, and all you need is a good pair of binoculars and a guide book. Check to see if there are birdwatching groups in your community and perhaps tag along to their next meeting. Spring is an excellent time to start learning all about your local bird species.

Spring cleaning. Springtime is associated with rebirth and renewal, so it’s no wonder that people do some serious cleaning at the start of spring. Clutter causes anxiety and affects how you feel in your own space. Make a list of rooms, closets, or areas of your home that you’ve been meaning to clean out, enlist the help of a friend, and get to work! You’ll feel so much better once you’ve done it — like a weight has been lifted off your shoulders. 

Senior care in Camden County, NJ

At Collingswood we encourage and support our residents to spend time outdoors pursuing their interests and hobbies. We’re taking advantage of the warmer weather and fresh spring air by getting outside, staying active, and most importantly by having fun. When you think about independent living for seniors it might conjure images of rigid schedules, but we assure you those cliches are outdated and untrue.

So whether it’s gardening, walking, birdwatching, or some other hobby, our residents are free to explore new interests with friends in a safe and supportive environment. 

For more information about Collingswood, our UMC assisted living community in Camden County NJ, please contact us or visit our website at: https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/assisted-living-south-jersey/

Original blog posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/spring-activities-for-seniors/

What Are Your Care Options After a Hospital Stay?

 

If you’ve recently been admitted to the hospital and will need short-term or long-term care after your hospital stay, there are several options depending on your circumstances and the level of care required.

Whether you’ve just had surgery and will need assistance with medications, changing bandages, and light chores around the house for a few weeks, or you anticipate more intensive, around-the-clock care, you have a range of options to choose from.

United Methodist Communities has put together a list of care options available to you or a loved one after a hospital stay. There is no “one-size-fits-all” solution for recovery, and it’s important to thoroughly understand your daily requirements, on a personal and medical level, before deciding which care option is best. 

At-home care services

A home health aide is a licensed medical professional who visits your home to provide the care you need. They will usually visit once a day, but this can be modified depending on your unique circumstances. Home health services are often used when someone is recovering from an operation, injury, illness, or if someone has limited mobility and needs help with certain things around the house. Home health aides can be very helpful for older adults who live alone, and when family members aren’t always available to stop by and check in on their loved ones. 

Skilled nursing facilities (SNFs)

These facilities are generally for people who have complex medical conditions or injuries and require a high level of care 24/7. If your loved one will require intensive and professional medical care following their stay in the hospital, a SNF is probably the best choice for them.

They’ll have dedicated medical professionals who are equipped to care for them, and you’ll have peace of mind knowing they’re being properly cared for day and night. People often stay in SNFs immediately following release from the hospital, then after several weeks or months of recuperation, are able to move into an environment with a slightly less intense level of care, such as an assisted living community. 

Assisted living communities

Assisted living communities are extremely diverse in the levels of care they provide. Many people incorrectly assume that assisted living is only for people who want to permanently move in. But actually, many assisted living communities care for people who have recently had a hospital stay and require a certain level of care before returning home. These communities help with transportation to doctors’ visits, medication management, dining, and other daily tasks of living while providing companionship in a social community setting. 

Understanding different levels of care for NJ seniors

UMC at Collingswood, our assisted living community in Camden County, provides customized levels of care to all of our residents. Whether they’re staying with us temporarily after hospitalization, or on a permanent basis, our associates can easily adjust care to fit their schedules and preferences. 

Many older adults are delighted to find that assisted living at UMC allows them to retain their independence and continue pursuing their hobbies and interests. It also brings peace of mind to know that associates are onsite, around the clock to help them with both medical and personal needs when necessary.

For more information about Collingswood, or if you have any questions about our senior care options across New Jersey, please contact United Methodist Communities today. You could also visit our website to learn more at: https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/assisted-living-south-jersey/ 

Original content posted on: https://umcommunities.org/assisted-living/what-are-your-care-options-after-a-hospital-stay/

6 Ways to Prevent Burns at Home

Burns can be very serious regardless of who sustains them, but recovering from burns can be more difficult for older adults. We’ve all accidentally touched a hot pan on the stove top, or ran our hand under scalding water.

In addition to being extremely painful, recovering from a burn can be a frustrating, arduous process, especially for older adults who already have other medical conditions. In addition, seniors with vision impairments, balance issues, or memory problems can sometimes be more vulnerable to burns in their own homes. 

Prevention is key, so here are several tips on preventing burns at home, either for you or for an older loved one:

1. Install an easily accessible fire extinguisher in the kitchen. Do you have a fire extinguisher in your home? Do you know where it is? Can you quickly grab it if needed? We recommend keeping a fire extinguisher in your kitchen, and checking to ensure your older loved ones do the same. If a fire breaks out while cooking you need to be able to put it out quickly, rather than running to another room to search for the extinguisher. 
2. If possible, eliminate common causes of fires like candles and lighters. It’s so easy to walk into another room and forget about lit candles. For older adults who have vision impairments, they may not even notice the candle is still burning. 
3. Set your water heaters to a lower temperature. We do not need scalding water for bathing or washing our hands, so there’s rarely a need to have the temperature on your water heaters set to the highest temperature. This is especially important for older adults who have vision or mobility issues.
4. Keep the kitchen properly lit. Most stovetops have lights that activate when the surface is hot, and you need to be able to see the lights clearly when they’re on.
5. Remove any tripping hazards in the kitchen and in the bathroom. It’s so easy to catch your foot on the corner of a rug and trip. If this happens around a hot stove it could result in a serious burn. 
6. Regularly test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Check your own today, then ask your loved ones to do the same. This is an important component of fire prevention in your home, so don’t put it off.

Keeping older adults safe in assisted living 

When your loved one is no longer able to live alone safely and comfortably, it may be time to consider an assisted living community. There are many wonderful assisted living communities for seniors that allow them to continue living full lives, while minimizing the risk of sustaining burns and serious injuries. Older adults can be more vulnerable to burns and take longer to recover from them, so the peace of mind that comes from knowing your loved one is in a safe environment is irreplaceable. 

At United Methodist Communities (UMC) at Collingswood, our residents enjoy a safe and secure environment, while retaining their independence. Our associates take precautions to prevent burns and other serious injuries among our residents, and we have medical professionals onsite who can provide immediate assistance if needed.

For more information about our community in Collingswood, or if you have any other senior care questions, please contact the team at UMC today: https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/assisted-living-south-jersey/

Original content posted on https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/collingswood/6-ways-to-prevent-burns-at-home/

5 Ways to Embrace Senior Independence Month

 

Living an independent lifestyle is important, no matter your age. That’s why it’s a “no-brainer” for us to embrace Senior Independence Month in February. At United Methodist Communities, one of our goals is helping the seniors in our community maintain their independence through customized care, activities, and assistance with daily tasks of living. With that said, here are some of the ways to embrace your senior independence this month.  

Assistance through technology 

Part of being independent is knowing and admitting when you need some help. A smartphone or tablet is a great aid with daily tasks. There are so many apps available to seniors to help with managing medications, keeping up with fitness habits, and navigating new locations. Apps like Zoom and Skype are also efficient in connecting seniors with their family and friends when they need a little assistance or socialization.

Especially during the pandemic when face-to-face meetings with family and friends aren’t always possible or encouraged. Here at Collingswood, our associates are available 24/7 to help residents with their smart devices. We have the patience, knowledge and bandwidth to connect seniors with the newest apps in order to promote the most independent lifestyle.

Senior activities to promote independence 

An independent mind is also a healthy one. One of the best ways to keep the mind healthy is to engage in cognitive exercises. This may sound a little bit like a science lesson, but trust us, it doesn’t have to be! Simple cognitive exercises like puzzles and board games can keep seniors’ minds sharp and also delay memory loss in some cases. At our assisted living community, we encourage seniors to engage in fun cognitive exercises each day, and with other residents (as long as it complies with our latest COVID-19 safety protocols).  

Care customized to your needs 

Most assisted living communities have found a way to support the individual needs and requirements of each resident. Here at UMC in Collingswood, we take this a step further by screening our nurses, aides and professional caregivers for their past quality of their care and current certifications. We are proud of each care team and the custom services that they are able to provide each resident, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. By tailoring the care to each senior resident, they promote their independence in their own apartments for as long as possible. 

Independent senior lifestyles in Collingswood, NJ

The overall experience at Collingswood is one that enhances a person’s security, dignity and independence. We believe in a living model in which residents can receive escalating services in their apartment as their needs change. Specialty neighborhoods are also available for those with memory disorders or those who need skilled nursing care. We take the time to match professional services with the needs of individuals, rather than a “one size fits all” approach that may unnecessarily relinquish some independence from the resident. 

If you’d like to see if we’re the right senior living option in Camden County, New Jersey, for your loved one, please contact us to schedule a personal tour today.

Original content posted on https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/collingswood/5-ways-to-embrace-senior-independence-month/

Your Guide to Glaucoma - Prevention, Symptoms, and Treatment

 

January is nationally known as Glaucoma Awareness Month. Glaucoma is a disease that damages the optic nerve, which connects your eye to your brain. Sometimes, fluid builds up in the front part of the eye and increases pressure in the eye, causing damage to the optic nerve. If the damage continues to build up, it can lead to vision loss and blindness.

It’s one of the leading causes of blindness in older adults and a condition that often has no warning signs. With that said, it’s very important to be aware of the symptoms, early methods of prevention and treatment options.

3 tips to help prevent glaucoma

1. Have your eyes checked regularly. We get regular medical check ups and dental check ups, but we often forget vision check ups. How often you need to have your eyes checked  depends on your age and family history, so talk with your ophthalmologist about the best eye exam frequency for you.
2. Be aware of your family’s eye health history. If your parents or other relatives have had glaucoma, your chances may increase. Knowing your family’s eye health history helps you create the best prevention plan with your eye doctor.
3. Wear protective eyewear when needed. Eye injuries can lead to glaucoma, so always use protective eye wear when playing sports like racquetball, when working with power tools, or in other potentially dangerous situations.

4 common symptoms of glaucoma

1. Blind spots or blurry spots in your vision, in one or both eyes
2. Loss of peripheral vision and the inability to look sideways, commonly known as tunnel vision
3. Headaches, eye pain, and blurred vision
4. A halo effect when looking at lights

How is glaucoma treated?

There is no known cure for glaucoma, but it can be managed efficiently. If you are diagnosed in the early stages, it is possible to slow and prevent any vision loss using a combination of eyedrops, medications, and surgeries. The sooner you start treating glaucoma, the better chance you have of preventing vision loss. That’s why it’s so important to have your eyes checked regularly and to be aware of any family history of glaucoma.

Living independently with glaucoma

Losing your vision can greatly impact your quality of life, especially your ability to live independently. Many people with glaucoma no longer feel safe living at home, especially when their vision loss happens rapidly. Their loved ones also wonder whether or not their home is the most secure place for them anymore.

With that said, being diagnosed with glaucoma doesn’t mean that you have to lose your independence. There are many senior living communities that offer a secure, protected environment while still allowing residents to retain their independence, individuality, and happiness.

At assisted living communities like UMC at Collingswood, seniors with vision loss are able to live independently while having around the clock access to medical professionals, and additional support they might need. Families have peace of mind knowing their loved ones are safe, and their vision loss won’t put them at risk like it would if they were living alone.

For more information about assisted living at our Collingswood community, or any of our other communities across New Jersey, please contact United Methodist Communities today at: https://collingswood.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/your-guide-to-glaucoma-prevention-symptoms-and-treatment/

6 Life Saving Medication Management Tips

 

Many older adults who live on their own take one or several medications daily. With numerous pill bottles, capsules and tablets that can appear nearly identical, medication management is an everyday essential for seniors.

Taking the wrong combination or dosage of certain medications can have harmful side effects. In order to avoid a potentially dangerous situation, we recommend following these tips for proper medication management:

1. Don’t ever increase the dosage on your own. Perhaps you’re taking a medication and you feel it isn’t working as well as it should, so you decide to take two capsules at once, instead of one capsule as your doctor prescribed. Overdosing poses very serious risks for older adults, especially when taking multiple medications. Always follow your doctor’s advice and if you feel your medication isn’t effective, call your doctor and discuss your dosage.
   
   
2. Use a pill box to properly separate your medications. You can use a pill box to separate your daily medications. Some pill boxes even have AM and PM separations. Keeping your medications organized makes it easier for you to take them without worrying that you’re mixing up medications, or taking them at the wrong time of day.
   
   
3. Ask your doctor about any possible drug interactions. When you’re taking multiple medications it’s crucial to be aware of any possible interactions they may have with one another. Pay attention to how you feel after taking your medications. If you feel you’re experiencing side effects that make you feel unwell, discuss it with your doctor immediately.
   
   
4. Regularly review the list of medications that older adults should use with caution. The American Geriatric Society publishes this list and updates it on a regular basis. This list highlights medications that seniors should avoid or that may pose potential risks. Review your medications with your doctor to ensure that none appear on this list.
   
   
5. Pay attention to how you feel after taking certain medications, and the side effects. Sometimes it’s not possible to avoid side effects with certain medications. Fortunately and often, the side effects can be manageable. After taking a new medication for the first time, pay close attention to how it makes you feel and make some notes about any side effects you experience. If you feel certain side effects are too severe, speak with your doctor about alternate options immediately.
   
   
6. If possible, minimize the number of doctors you see and pharmacies you use. We’ve all seen specialists for various health concerns throughout our lives. But for older adults on multiple medications, having one primary care doctor may be the best form of medication management. When the same doctor can coordinate all medical care and corresponding medications, it can  help reduce the risk of adverse drug interactions, unpleasant side effects, and is just a safer option overall.

Medication management at UMC at Collingswood

In assisted living communities like Collingswood, medication management services are available with associates who support residents with taking medications, monitoring for any side effects, and coordinating with physicians to make necessary adjustments. If they encounter any issues with their medications, they can be promptly attended to and remedied by our experienced team of medical professionals that are on site 24/7. Our residents appreciate the extra support, and their loved ones have peace of mind knowing that their health is being closely monitored by professionals.

For more information about our assisted living community in Collingswood NJ, or if you have any other questions about medication management, please contact the UMC team today at: http://collingswood.umcommunities.org/contact

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/6-life-saving-medication-management-tips/

5 Ways to Show Appreciation During Family Caregivers Month

 

November is National Family Caregivers Month, and for those who are caregivers or know someone who is, you know how hard they work to ensure their loved ones are safe, healthy, and happy. Family caregivers constantly make sacrifices and put everyone else before themselves, so some time-off or a special gift will go a long way in the appreciation department.

Here are some ways to show them a little extra love throughout the month of November. Keep in mind it doesn’t need to end there!

1. Treat them to a fun day out. Even with the Coronavirus still among us, we are more than able to leave our houses for a little fun (as long as we are staying safe). Break the traditional routine and treat the caregiver in your life to a fun day out of their choosing. Options may include a local shopping trip to their favorite store or a socially-distanced dinner at their favorite restaurant. Whatever option you decide on is bound to be a wonderful and thoughtful way to show gratitude. 
2. Have the person they care for write them a letter. Family caregivers are often expected to take on caregiving duties because “it’s what they should do,” especially when the person being cared for is a parent or a spouse. However, a little acknowledgement can go a long way, especially when it’s a heartfelt, handwritten letter. 
3. Give them some time off to rest and recharge. Juggling multiple responsibilities is stressful for anyone, especially a caregiver. They all need time to rest, reflect, and think. Family caregivers do not get vacation days like those of us who work traditional jobs. And many caregivers work full-time jobs while caring for their loved one full time, so you can imagine how easy it is for them to feel burned out. Get together with a group of family members or close friends and come up with a plan to give the caregiver some time off. This could be a great opportunity to try respite care at a safe and reputable assisted living community like UMC.
4. Pamper them. Unfortunately, spas are still closed due to Coronavirus complications. However, there are alternate (and safe) ways available to pamper the special caregiver in your life. Most hair salons and nail salons are operating under new COVID-19 guidelines and offer gift cards for customers to redeem at a later time. Before purchasing a gift card for your caregiver, call the desired salon ahead of time to learn more about their current operating guidelines. 
5. Let them know you’re here for them. Being an around-the-clock caregiver while working an additional job or caring for children can easily overwhelm anyone. Strong mental health is essential to being our best self, but we so often ignore self-care for more pressing responsibilities. Let the family caregiver in your life know that you’re available for emotional support, and perhaps find some online support groups they can join if necessary. Socializing and sharing coping strategies with other people who are in the same situation is proven to be very therapeutic and beneficial.

Consider an Assisted Living Option at UMC

Caregiving doesn’t necessarily end once your loved one moves into assisted living. Many family members visit their loved ones multiple times a week to ensure they are happy, safe, and healthy. UMC at Collingswood understands it can be hard to transition from a full-time caregiver to someone who sees their loved one a few times a week. Under our new COVID-19 guidelines and in conjunction with current state regulations, we welcome outdoor visitation and limited indoor visitation. Seeing your loved one safe and healthy in our community with others just like them, will give you the peace of mind you need.

For more information about United Methodist Communities at Collingswood, or if you have any other questions about assisted living, please contact us today. Discover why we are the trusted assisted living community for so many people in and around Camden County, NJ.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/5-ways-to-show-appreciation-during-family-caregivers-month/

Senior Care of the Future: What it Could Look Like

 

People today are living longer than ever before. Thanks to advances in healthcare, ever-expanding knowledge in nutritional needs, and continuous improvements in medical technology, our lifespans have increased. It’s even been predicted that by the year 2050 one in six people will be older than 65 years old!

While we can certainly celebrate the fact that many of us will enjoy long, fulfilling lives, our increased life expectancy raises questions around senior care. What is the best way to care for a growing population of older adults?

Researchers are studying attitudes towards telehealth technologies that improve the quality of care older adults receive, and the senior living industry itself to determine what the future of senior care might look like. Here are some of their findings and predictions:

Attitudes about assisted living are becoming more positive. Many of us have had difficult conversations with our aging family members about senior care, and many of us have received expected resistance. But there’s evidence that seniors are starting to feel more positive about community-based care facilities because they’re able to retain their independence, their freedom, and feel more supported. They much prefer a community-based approach  over a rigid, highly-structured approach. As more care communities pivot towards a community-based model, older adults will be more willing to enter assisted living.

Technology will play an essential role in senior care. At United Methodist Communities, we use technology to deliver the best care to our residents. Two-way video telehealth calls with primary caregivers, monitoring vitals with a secure app, and AI-powered (artificial intelligence)fall prevention are just a few technologies we use to administer the most efficient and convenient care. Seniors can also use digital tools to set medication reminders, have questions answered by specialists, and share data like daily blood pressure readings with their physician instantly.

Acknowledge that there is no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to senior care. Much of the resistance that older adults have toward assisted living has to do with their individuality. They want to live somewhere that accommodates their unique routines. Older adults still enjoy their freedom, and they’re averse to strict schedules with no flexibility. With that said,  assisted living communities are now acknowledging that a blanket approach is not ideal. Instead they’re creating environments where residents can thrive, live life on their own terms, and retain all of the qualities that make them unique. 

Senior Living at UMC Collingswood 

Assisted living facilities must prepare for an increasing older adult population and make the necessary adaptations. When looking at senior living communities for you or for a loved one, here are some helpful questions to ask:

• Do you have a resident-directed approach to assisted living? Can you tell me about it?
• How do you support the individual needs of each resident?
• How are you using telehealth to improve the quality of healthcare?
• What other technologies do you use that enhance quality of life?
• Can you tell me about your onsite security and safety?

Assisted living facilities like our community at Collingswood should have satisfactory answers for each question. They should also  share examples of everything they’re doing to support current residents, while transitioning into senior care of the future.

For more information about senior care at UMC Collingswood, or any of our other communities across New Jersey, please contact United Methodist Communities today to book your visit. We look forward to hearing from you.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/covid-19-update/senior-care-of-the-future-what-it-could-look-like/

Your Senior Safety and Wellbeing Checklist

 

As we approach Falls Prevention Awareness Day, now is the perfect time to review and update your senior safety and wellbeing checklist. And if you don’t have one, now is the perfect time to create it. Whether it’s for yourself or a loved one, having a checklist in place is a great way to assess one’s ability to live independently and may help you decide if some part-time or full-time assistance is required.

There are several categories that make up a comprehensive senior safety and wellbeing checklist:

Cognitive function and communication. This includes items like recognizing loved ones, showing any signs of memory loss, and the ability to hold a conversation without getting confused. It also includes experiencing confusion when doing everyday, routine activities, and being able to clearly communicate needs and wants. Paying attention to cognitive function and communication is crucial, especially because it tends to deteriorate very slowly and is sometimes difficult to detect at first. 

Health and medications. No matter how good your health is this is an important one, and includes things like getting regular medical, dental, and vision check-ups. Your senior checklist should also include remembering to take daily medications and being aware of any changes in weight, behavior, mental or emotional health. 

Food, nutrition, and kitchen safety. While eating a balanced diet is important this category includes much more, like being able to go food shopping and carry the groceries home, preparing meals, and being aware of foods and drinks that can interfere with any medications. It also includes keeping a well-stocked fridge and ensuring all items are within easy reach. As you age it’s common to experience a decreased appetite, however it’s essential to get adequate nutrients daily and to stay hydrated. 

Home and bathroom safety. You spend the majority of your time at home, so ensuring your environment is safe and comfortable is essential. This includes checking for potential hazards like sharp corners, loose rugs you could trip on, and steep staircases. It also includes having emergency alert functions in all rooms of your house, railings on both sides of all stairs, and easy access to fire extinguishers. The bathroom can be a particularly hazardous place. 

According to the CDC, 30% of adults aged 65 and over who sustained injuries in bathrooms were diagnosed with fractures, and for adults aged 85 and over, 38% required hospitalization due to their injuries. It’s critical to ensure you can climb safely in and out of the tub. Install anti-slip grips and floor mats throughout.

Making your home as safe as possible

Feeling safe and comfortable in your own home is essential. As we age, we experience reduced mobility, we tend to get more aches and pains, and some of us experience vision and/or hearing loss. It’s important to take these factors into account when assessing the safety of your home, and to recognize any injuries or limitations you have that may limit your ability to do everyday tasks. For example, if you have difficulty seeing in dim lighting, be sure all areas of your house are sufficiently lit, especially staircases, the bathroom, and your bedroom. Adequate lighting helps you avoid tripping hazards and allows you to navigate safely. 

In addition to protecting yourself from all the potential dangers inside your home, you may want to invest in a home security and monitoring system. This includes things like an alarm system, motion-sensor lights around the perimeter of your home, and CCTV cameras for your property. 

If you’d like more information about Collingswood, our assisted living community in Camden County NJ, please contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/health-wellness/your-senior-safety-and-wellbeing-checklist/

4 Effective Communication Strategies for Seniors with Dementia

As caregivers in an assisted living community in Collingswood NJ, we work with a range of people who have different levels of need. Among these unique and different strategies, we offer specialized memory care for seniors with dementia or Alzheimer’s. If you are dealing with the onset of memory related illness in a loved one, it may help you to know a few communication strategies that the professionals at United Methodist Communities employ when working with seniors with dementia.

1. Maximize attention – Dementia can make it difficult for people to pay attention. To give seniors the best chance of being involved in the communication process, you need to maximize their attention. Greet them by name, move to their eye level, and establish eye contact. Maintain eye contact throughout the conversation as it can help the person focus on you instead of other distractions such as a television or radio.
   
   It can be hard for people with dementia to split their attention. If the senior with dementia is a part of a group conversation, ask the other people to speak one person at a time. If you are talking to a person with dementia, try to give them all of your attention (as opposed to talking to another person at the same time) to avoid distractions.
   
   
2. Expression and body language – Our tone, facial expression, and body language can be the non-verbal language that communicates the strongest message to a person with dementia – especially if their language abilities have declined. Pay attention to your expression and body language when you are talking to a person with dementia. Show that you are interested by relaxing your face and maintaining eye contact, and be sure to speak calmly as this can help reduce the chance of agitation in the person. Make use of simple non-verbal cues such as smiling and nodding.
   
   
3. Keep it simple – People with dementia have trouble holding a lot of information in their memory, which makes it difficult for them to understand long sentences that contain several pieces of information. Keep sentences short, simple, and familiar. If you need to deliver several pieces of information, break it up, and let the person respond to each bit of information separately.
   
   Be aware of the words that you are using and try to stick to familiar words. Be prepared to repeat words. It is also wise to use the actual names of things such as pronouns like “it” and “they” so that the senior knows who and what you are talking about throughout the conversation.
   
   Another area to keep it simple is with asking questions. If you need to ask a question, such as where the pain is or what the person wants to eat, make sure the questions are easy to answer. With the question about food, for example, you could introduce the topic of lunch and ask the person if they prefer a sandwich or the hot meal so that he or she doesn’t have to answer the question on their own. Keep the conversation natural and the language simple without talking down to the person.

4. Support the conversation – Seniors with dementia need more time to process information. Leave a pause that is longer than usual (around four to five seconds) after a sentence so that they have time to understand what is being said. Be attuned to the senior when giving them time to come up with a response and suggest answers, repeat and rephrase information in a different way if needed. Slip in frequent reminders of the topic to help them follow the conversation and introduce every topic clearly.

United Methodist Communities brings compassionate memory care to the residents and families of our communities through our Tapestries Memory Care program. 

Those interested in learning more about memory care through UMC’s assisted living communities in Camden County or across NJ can learn more here.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/4-effective-communication-strategies-for-seniors-with-dementia/