5 Activities to Keep Independent Seniors Engaged

 

Helping the older adults in your life stay active and engaged is vital for their wellbeing, and it’s also a great way to strengthen your relationship and special bond with them. You can discover new interests together, engage in new hobbies that will help them maintain key critical thinking and motor skills, and establish more independence that will have them feeling empowered and accomplished at the end of each day.

1. Gardening is an excellent activity for older adults because it can be done indoors or outdoors, doesn’t require excessive space, and it’s low impact. Additionally, many people find taking care of plants to be very emotionally satisfying. As we enjoy the cooler September weather, it’s a great time to get started on a garden and you’ll be enjoying the fruits of your labor in no time!
2. Baking and cooking. If your senior loved one has never experimented in the kitchen, now could be the perfect time. Trying new recipes, meal planning, and making food for people you love is hugely rewarding, and it’s something you can enjoy together. Create a short list of baked goods and meals your loved one wants to make, and start from there.
3. Daily walks. Older adults who aren’t limited by mobility issues can benefit greatly from daily walks. Walking helps maintain healthy circulation, stimulates various muscle groups, and gets those ‘feel-good’ endorphins flowing. Joining your loved one on a daily walk is a great opportunity to deepen your relationship as you discuss the news of the day and more.
4. Volunteering. Once seniors retire, they often look for activities to fill their free time. Volunteering for causes they care about is a great way for older adults to give back to their community while doing something personally rewarding. Ask the seniors in your life if they’d be interested in volunteering at any of your local organizations, and perhaps help them with the application process.
5. Continued education. Higher learning has no age limit. We often see people of all ages graduating from high school and college, as it’s never too late to learn more about your passions and interests. Many institutions of higher learning have a huge range of online courses available. If your loved one would prefer an in-person environment, check with your local library and community senior center and see what courses are offered.
   
   

Vibrant assisted living in Pitman NJ

We know that having the assisted living conversation with aging parents can be difficult. Unfortunately, due to outdated stereotypes and persistent cultural cliches, many seniors view assisted living communities as places where they’ll lose their independence and be made to follow strict schedules every day. At UMC at Pitman, our premier assisted living community in Gloucester County, you’ll find our neighborhood to be more like an enhanced apartment complex than anything else. 

We believe in resident-directed living, which means our residents are in total control of their own time and daily schedules. We also encourage them to pursue new hobbies and interests with a full social calendar available. Residents are free to lead their own lives while also living in a secure neighborhood with around-the-clock access to any care they might need, including medication assistance. 

For more information about UMC at Pitman, or if you have any questions about our assisted living services, please contact our team today.

Original blog posted on https://umcommunities.org/assisted-living/5-activities-to-keep-independent-seniors-engaged/

Why You Should Look Forward to Retirement Living

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoying assisted living in Pitman NJ

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

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

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

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

Examining Quality of Life in an Assisted Living Community

 

Assisted living communities provide around-the-clock care for older adults who have certain health or mobility needs. When your loved one needs support with independence or when they require more assistance than you are able to provide, an assisted living community may be the best choice.

If you’ve started researching assisted living, you’ve undoubtedly noticed that there are many options. How do you know which community is best for your loved one? We’ve made a list of key assisted living qualities or characteristics that indicate residents enjoy an exceptional quality of life. We hope this list will make your search a little bit easier.

Family visits and family contact are encouraged. Not everyone is lucky enough to live close to their loved ones who are in assisted living. However, if you are close, your loved one’s community should encourage family visits. They should also be able to accommodate requests like family days, whether on site or taking your loved one out for the day. Thankfully, technology enables frequent family contact for those who don’t live close by. When choosing the right assisted living community, weigh both options: ensure they are close enough to where you live and that they have the necessary technology in place so your loved one can keep in touch virtually.

Diverse social activities. One fear people have about assisted living is that they’ll be isolated and alone, cut off from any sense of community. Assisted living communities should have a diverse range of social activities for all residents, including card games, arts and crafts, different forms of exercise, music and movie-related activities, cooking classes, and more. Social activities allow residents to keep exploring their interests, while strengthening their friendships with other residents.

Opportunities for independence and autonomy where possible. Moving your loved one into assisted living does not mean they are losing their independence and autonomy. Many assisted living communities, like UMC at Pitman, are designed to enable residents to maintain their independence in a safe, comfortable setting.

Embracing technology. Assisted living communities use technology to help residents keep in contact with their families, but there are many other areas where technology enhances quality of life for everyone. Features such as medication reminders, fall or irregular movement alerts, vital sign monitoring, and general security are all made possible by using the latest technologies. Reputable assisted living communities should embrace technology and be more than willing to teach residents how to use it.

Assisted living in Pitman, NJ

Making the decision to move a loved one into assisted living isn’t an easy one. We recommend choosing a community that uses a “resident-directed” approach, like we do at UMC at Pitman. The term resident-directed means that each person in the community receives a customized level of care specific to their needs. We also acknowledge that their health and mobility needs may change during their time with us. Rather than having to move from one community to the next, resident-directed assisted living communities accommodate people as necessary over time.

If you’re looking for an assisted living community in Gloucester County, we hope the tips discussed here will help you make an informed choice for your loved one. For more information about UMC at Pitman, or if you have any questions about our assisted living care services, please contact us today or visit our website at: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/examining-quality-of-life-in-an-assisted-living-community/

What are The Levels of Care in Assisted Living?

 

Assisted living communities offer many different levels of care and these communities can be as diverse as the residents who live there. If you’ve ever visited an assisted living community then you’ve probably seen that residents may be grouped based on the level of care they need. This allows associates on-site to be able to provide necessary medical care and other types of assistance more immediately. 

One major benefit of providing different levels of care in an assisted living community is that residents may be able to stay longer in an assisted living community before a move into skilled nursing due to chronic pain or complex medical conditions. Instead, offering levels of care allows residents to live happily in their assisted living apartment for as long as possible, making it much less disruptive for them.

To better understand levels of care, the team at United Methodist Communities outlined the different levels of care available at each of our full service assisted living locations across New Jersey. 

Levels of care in assisted living are typically structured as follows:

Lower level of care. Many older adults are independent, enjoy a range of hobbies and continue to lead full lives. Yet sometimes, they require a little bit of help with daily tasks or managing different medications. Residents who require lower levels of care typically go about their days as usual, while nurses and other associates are on site to help with anything they might need. Communities with lower levels of care don’t feel very clinical, instead they often feel like a vibrant apartment complex with people coming and going. 

Higher level of care. Residents needing more care are still able to live in an apartment, but need help with an increased number of Activities of Daily living such as bathing, dressing, eating, or medication management. Residents also benefit from increased security and 24 hour alert pendants to help prevent falls and other accidents. 

Tapestries® Memory Care. People with Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia often live in specialized memory care neighborhoods. These neighborhoods are specially built for maximum safety and comfort for people with memory loss. They are designed to allow residents to feel at home, while receiving the advanced care they need. Tapestries Memory Care neighborhoods at UMC have enhanced security, cognitive therapy programs, and flexible meal and sleep schedules that are dictated by each memory care resident. While our associates on-site receive ongoing specialized training in Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia. Tapestries Memory Care also offers education and emotional support for family members who have loved ones with dementia. 

Assisted living for all levels of care 

Many assisted living communities offer multiple  levels of care in one single location because their residents can transition to different levels more easily if necessary. Rather than having an older adult to pack all of their belongings and move to an entirely new location – a full service assisted living community has everything they need without disrupting their lives. It’s also much easier on the family because they have the peace of mind that comes from knowing their loved one is properly cared for no matter how their needs may evolve and change. 

At UMC at Pitman, our residents enjoy complete integration with the local town and continue to live independently. They also have access to onsite medical care, assistance with daily tasks, delicious meals, social activities and much more. UMC offers various levels of care, so if necessary, your loved one can transition easily to a higher level of care that best suits their needs. 

For more information about Pitman, our assisted living community in Gloucester County, please contact us today or visit our website at: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/assisted-living-gloucester-county-nj/

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/what-are-the-levels-of-care-in-assisted-living/

Indoor Gardening for Seniors: How to Get Started

 

Are you interested in indoor gardening, but don’t have any idea where to start or what to do? For seniors in assisted living, outdoor gardening isn’t always an option due to space limitations or weather constraints.

Starting a small indoor garden is a great first step to enjoy this fun, new hobby in assisted living. And who knows, you may discover that you have a natural “green thumb!”

Did you know gardening also provides health benefits to older adults? In fact, according to the Alzheimer’s Society, taking care of plants can help people with dementia to retain some of their existing skills and boost confidence. In addition, having a small indoor garden gives seniors something to care for and look forward to every day, helping them fulfill a purpose. 

Here’s how to get started with an indoor garden:

• Note how much natural light reaches your apartment. You don’t want to try and grow plants that need a lot of sunlight, if your space only receives a few hours of light each day. Luckily there are plenty of plants that grow indoors and only require a little bit of light each day, like succulents. Just ask a fellow gardener or your local plant nursery what they recommend for your situation. 
• Make sure your garden is easily accessible. Don’t plant your garden in a place that requires you to bend down, stoop, crouch, or reach up high. You want to be able to access the entire garden easily while in a comfortable standing or seated position. The same goes for where you store your gardening tools, plant pots, and other garden supplies.
• Avoid plants with spines (like a cactus), and plants that are poisonous to humans or pets or can irritate your skin. Although they may look lovely, certain plants have rough edges, sharp leaves, or spines that can cause injuries, especially if you accidentally fall onto them. Be aware of poisonous plants as well, and avoid anything that can cause unnecessary harm.
• Keep it simple in the beginning. All gardeners begin somewhere, and we recommend growing a small herb garden if you’re a beginner. Herb gardens are an affordable way to grow fresh ingredients right in your apartment, and many herbs grow easily indoors. 
• Have fun! Many people praise gardening as being a relaxing, fun, and enjoyable hobby. You can grow flowers that complement the colors of your decor, select stylish plant pots, and make the indoor garden totally your own.

Gardening fun in assisted living

UMC at Pitman, our assisted living community in Gloucester County, residents can enjoy a comfortable and private residential setting, while receiving the daily support they need. We encourage our residents to continue pursuing their hobbies and interests while staying with us, or to branch out and explore a new hobby they’ve always been interested in trying. 

Whether it’s indoor gardening, music, literature, or another hobby entirely, our community will do everything possible to make sure our residents have access to activities that make them feel at home. Our goal is for every resident to live independent, fulfilling lives and enjoy everything life has to offer at our community. 

For more information about Pitman, or if you have any questions about assisted living across New Jersey, please contact United Methodist Communities today.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/assisted-living/indoor-gardening-for-seniors-how-to-get-started/

How to Help Your Loved One Manage Parkinson’s Disease

 

When your loved one has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, you may not know where to start in providing support. Parkinson’s symptoms tend to develop slowly over the years, so by the time your loved one receives a diagnosis, they may need help managing their symptoms and navigating their daily life. Here are some tips on helping your loved one manage Parkinson’s Disease.

• During the initial diagnosis phase, it’ll be a great help to your loved one if you attend the doctor’s appointments with them. Many people experience anxiety when visiting the doctor, even for things like routine check-ups. When dealing with something as serious as Parkinson’s disease, you can support your loved one by being with them every step of the way. You can help ensure all their questions are answered, get complete information about treatment options, and more.
• Support them during the planning of their treatment regimen. Treatment for Parkinson’s disease depends on the individual, including other medical conditions and medications, but general medical treatment for Parkinson’s has a lot of different components. You can support your loved one by participating in the planning of their medical treatment, and encouraging them throughout the process. It can be scary and overwhelming, especially for older adults.
• Assistance and support in their day-to-day life. Parkinson’s is a progressive disease and gets more severe as time goes on. While your loved one may not feel they need assistance right after their diagnosis, a time will come when they do need your help. Offer to help with household cleaning, chores, grooming, cooking, food shopping, and other things that will become more difficult with time. Let them know they can rely on you going forward.
• Driving. While some people with Parkinson’s continue to drive themselves for a while, it may eventually get to the point where they can’t safely get behind the wheel. Whether it’s driving to the doctor or to the grocery store, you can support your loved one by being their driver when they need you.
• Emotional support. Perhaps the most important and most challenging component of Parkinson’s disease is the emotional support, people who receive this diagnosis need. It’s scary, overwhelming, and people often don’t know how quickly their disease will progress, so offering emotional support is an essential component of supporting your loved one.

Supporting those with Parkinson’s in assisted living 

When the time comes where you feel your loved one can no longer live alone safely, or if you’re unable to care for them full-time, you may need to consider assisted living as an option. At United Methodist Communities (UMC) our residents enjoy their independence in a safe, secure environment and at our assisted living community in Pitman, NJ, we have medical professionals onsite around the clock to attend to residents’ health and safety. 

Treatment for and management of Parkinson’s Disease has many components, and as the disease progresses it can get more complicated. You may not be able to manage the care and treatment for your loved one by yourself. If you feel this is the case, we recommend you explore assisted living options. 

For more information about UMC at Pitman, our assisted living community in Gloucester County, please contact our team today. Discover why so many people choose us as their trusted assisted living community. 

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/how-to-help-your-loved-one-manage-parkinsons-disease/

Senior Outreach Opportunities in Pitman, NJ

 

If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s to stay up to date with the latest technology. Our smartphones, tablets and computers have been a godsend during COVID-19 – giving many people a way to connect with loved ones when they can’t physically be with one another. 

This is especially true for older adults who have to be extra careful, as they are in a higher risk group for contracting COVID-19. However, we cannot dismiss how hard it’s been for older people to avoid seeing family members and friends. Now more than ever, older adults need opportunities to connect with others, as well as the community around them. 

The Senior Outreach Committee in Pitman, NJ has been on top of this, and is constantly providing new activities for seniors to take part in safely during this time. With that said, here is a list of senior resources provided by the outreach committee. 

Online games

One of the greatest ways to connect with family and friends – games! And when it’s not possible to be face-to-face, gaming online is the next best option. This online resource provided by AARP will allow older adults to play the games they enjoy alone or with friends. Mahjong, chess, pool – you name it, they have it. 

Virtual tours of museums, parks and aquariums 

In light of adapting to changing conditions, it’s normal for everyone to have the itch to travel. With travel restrictions still in play, virtual tours are great ways to experience new places. Do they want to see a Hawaii volcano up close? Or would they rather see a live feed of endangered aquatic animals? What about a trip to the Musee d’Orsay in Paris? With these resources, seniors can see it all from the comfort and safety of their own homes.  

Workout videos 

Sitting home and doing the same thing everyday is not good, especially for older adults. It’s important to stay active as we age, in order to minimize health issues and maintain a positive mindset. Regular exercise releases endorphins that make us feel happy, and also help keep us motivated and productive throughout the day. Even though gyms may be open, it’s not the best place for seniors during COVID-19. With that said, this online resource provides workout videos appropriate for seniors who are just looking for extra motivation to stay active while at home. 

Helping seniors connect at our community in Gloucester County

While having access to your local senior outreach committee is great, having resources available directly in your home is even better. Here at UMC, we firmly believe with procedures in place like UNITEDforSAFETY, there’s no reason why seniors living in an assisted living community can’t socialize and have some fun too!

With our health and safety protocols in place since the pandemic hit, we have been able to have socially distant group activities like yoga, meditation and movie nights. Our residents have also been able to participate in “theme days,” such as Root Beer Float Day and National Gorgeous Grandma Day (just to name a few). 

To learn more about events and senior resources at our assisted living community in Gloucester County, New Jersey, please contact United Methodist Communities today. 

Originally posted: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2020/12/28/senior-outreach-opportunities-in-pitman-nj/

Forgetfulness or Dementia?

We all forget things sometimes. It’s why we have reminders on our phones, why we keep post-it notes around the house, and why so many of us use a planner on a daily basis.

You may have noticed that as you get older you tend to forget things more frequently. This is a completely normal part of aging and nothing to be concerned about. But when does forgetfulness become more than just forgetfulness? If you’ve noticed that you’re having more trouble remembering things, or if a loved one is displaying some worrying signs of potential memory loss, it may be time to see a doctor.

What are some of the major differences between forgetfulness and dementia?

Forgetfulness often presents in one or several of the following ways:

• Absentmindedness. Even the most organized people lose focus from time to time. It’s common to forget a scheduled appointment, forget to pick up some of the items on your grocery list, or forget to call your friend back.
• Forgetting some memories over time. As we age, it’s normal to not be able to recall certain memories. Some people have better memories than others, but forgetting some memories is generally not a cause for concern.
• Depression and anxiety can cause people to be more forgetful than usual and sometimes mental health issues can be misdiagnosed as dementia.

Contrarily, there are certain signs that may point to the onset of dementia:

• Major changes in personality. This is different and more severe than simply experiencing mood swings. People experiencing dementia can sometimes exhibit behaviors that are completely out of character for them.
• Forgetting important details and information. Even those of us with bad memories don’t forget things like our mother’s name, our children’s birthdays, and our address. When people have difficulty remembering crucial information it may be time to speak with a doctor.
• Experiencing disorientation when in a new environment. Older adults who are disoriented often appear confused and are unable to fully grasp where they are. Disorientation is worrisome if it happens often in new areas, and even more so in familiar areas.
• A loss of interest in bathing, grooming, and overall appearance, along with an increasingly messy and unsanitary living space.

Memory care in assisted living

When older adults with dementia can no longer remain safe at home, they can benefit greatly from a professional memory care program that provides around the clock support. Memory care programs like Tapestries® have experts who can help manage the onset of dementia, giving residents the highest quality of life in a safe environment. Tapestries® believes in the importance of letting older adults with dementia live life on their own terms, focusing on their individual interests and passions.

Dementia isn’t something that people experience alone. Their entire family goes through it and needs emotional support too. Assisted living communities with memory care residences offer that support to the entire family, and believe in involving them in their loved one’s care. Seniors with dementia fare better when their families are involved, and when they receive complete, comprehensive memory care.

For more information about Tapestries® Memory Care in Gloucester County, or if you have any questions about assisted living, please contact UMC at Pitman today at: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/contact/

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/forgetfulness-or-dementia/

What is Subacute Rehab?

 

Subacute rehabilitation is simply another term for short-term rehabilitation. This type of care is offered at skilled nursing facilities within hospitals, physical therapy centers, or even senior living communities. Short-term rehab is complete inpatient care for someone who is experiencing a medical condition that is temporary.

If you or your family member need more time to recover from a bad fall, stroke or surgery, short-term rehab is the best option to move forward. But staying at a hospital may not be the most ideal plan, as multiple overnight hospital stays can be very pricey. So, where should you go? 

United Methodist Communities at Pitman has a full-time rehabilitation staff and nursing team specializing in physical, occupational, speech, and respiratory therapy for our residents. This is a great opportunity for you or your loved one to experience rehab care in a safe, well-equipped, comfortable, and welcoming community before returning back home. 

Common reasons older adults choose short-term rehab at UMC:

• Recovering from surgery that requires medical supervision and occupational therapy before returning home
• Restoring and strengthening  mobility, often after a fall 
• Recovering from a stroke or heart attack 
• Diagnosed with diabetes, thyroid disease or another condition affecting dietary and medical needs
• Partial or full speech paralysis due to Bell’s Palsy, stroke, or other conditions 
• Treatment for  a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) such as chronic bronchitis or emphysema, which causes difficulty breathing 

Common questions surrounding subacute rehab

• How much will subacute rehabilitation cost? 

Fortunately, this type of care is typically paid for by Medicare. Medicare is a federal program that people pay into as they work over the years. However, financial coverage varies depending on the plan you’ve chosen to pay into. To get a better understanding of your coverage for sub-acute rehab, contact our community today. We’d be happy to talk it through with you or your senior family member. 

• How long is a typical subacute rehab stay? 

The short answer is it varies. Some people will only stay for a few weeks, while others will stay for months. It is really dependent on the severity of the condition, overall health status of the resident, insurance coverage, and the resident’s ability to leave safely after rehab treatment is complete. 

• How many hours are dedicated to therapy each day? 

Starting out, you may only be able to tolerate about 30 minutes a day, depending on your condition. As you adjust, the typical duration is about three hours of therapy per day. If at any time you  feel as if you should be getting more therapy each day, ask your rehab specialist if the therapy minutes can be increased.

Why choose UMC over a hospital for rehab care in New Jersey? 

Older adults who select UMC at Pitman receive 24-hour comprehensive care and supervision, more than they would receive at a hospital. Rehabilitation represents the perfect intersection of healthcare, technology and human connection. Complemented by our environment and professional associates, we can successfully treat those with multiple and complex health conditions.

 Subacute rehab begins with a warm welcome and a thorough evaluation upon arrival. Our care team believes in establishing an immediate connection to ensure each resident is comfortable enough to ask for anything, whether it be further clarification on treatment or extra assistance with a daily task.

From there, our team develops customized care plans, which include establishing the types of therapy, medical treatments, and dietary requirements necessary. We even consider what type of social activities each resident can take part in – because who says rehabilitation has to be boring? (Please note, all UMC communities have COVID-19 measures in place to ensure safe socialization, while also preserving the health and safety of all residents.)

To learn more about comprehensive rehab care at Pitman, or at another one of our full-service senior communities across New Jersey, please contact United Methodist Communities today.

Originally posted: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2020/12/14/what-is-subacute-rehab/

Alzheimer’s Awareness Month: Symptoms, Treatment and Memory Care Programs

Alzheimer’s Awareness Month is in November and it’s important to shed a light on the best practices in memory care. Effective memory care can significantly improve the quality of life for people with dementia or Alzheimer’s.

Because each person with dementia will experience symptoms differently, it’s essential to adjust the level of care appropriately. Here is United Methodist Communities’ guidance, recommendations and options for dealing with dementia. 

Early detection of dementia 

Early detection is key to slowing the progression of symptoms that come with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Consult your primary care provider if you or a loved one exhibits the following signs on a consistent basis: 

• Significant memory loss
• Difficulty performing daily tasks
• Using their native language incorrectly
• Confusion with time and place 
• Poor judgement in decision making 
• Misplacing objects or placing them in unusual places 
• Drastic changes in mood, behavior or overall personality
• Loss of drive, motivation, and ambition

Treatment options for dementia behavioral issues

Potential behavioral issues caused by dementia can take various forms. Some notable examples are wandering off course, aggressive reactions, constant paranoia, or resistance to maintaining good hygiene. Fortunately, there are different options available to treat or minimize these significant behavioral issues.

Vitamin E
One interesting study suggests that taking vitamin E twice a day may slow down the progression of dementia in some people. However, the study is ongoing, and the correct dosage of vitamin E should only be taken under a doctor’s supervision. 

Medication

Talking to a doctor about the option of medication is usually recommended depending on the severity of the behavioral issue. Most likely, your doctor will prescribe anti-agitation drugs. Some examples are antidepressants, neuroleptics, sedatives and sleep medications. 

Communication methods and other adjustments

It’s very important for caregivers and other family members to learn about different methods to communicate with someone with dementia. Simple things like safeguarding the home environment and engaging in therapeutic activities can keep negative behaviors at bay. If these approaches prove to be unsuccessful, it may be best to consider a professional memory care program at a reputable assisted living community.  

Individualized memory care at United Methodist Communities 

Our Tapestries® Memory Care  concentrates on the cognitive strengths of each resident. The resident-directed approach adapts to the unique and natural routines of each person. This strategy helps maximize and enrich their quality of life with dementia. Our professional associates also take the time to get to know each resident, as well as their families to ensure Tapestries® is the best viable option for all involved. UMC has been successfully admitting and welcomes new memory care residents during COVID-19. To read more information regarding our industry-leading guidelines in navigating the Coronavirus, click here. 

If your loved one suffers from early stages of dementia, please contact UMC at Pitman in Gloucester County to find out how we can meet their needs, as well as yours. To learn more about our Tapestries® programs across New Jersey, please contact United Methodist Communities today. 

Originally posted: https://pitman.umcommunities.org/2020/11/24/alzheimers-awareness-month/

Severe Weather Tips for Seniors

 

Those of us who have experienced severe weather know how stressful and disorienting it can be, especially for seniors who live alone and may have limited mobility or cognitive conditions. In order to keep yourself and your loved ones safe and well-prepared in the event of severe weather, we recommend taking the following precautions for yourself, and/or your elderly loved ones.

Blizzards

We all love watching a beautiful winter snowfall, but blizzards can be very dangerous, especially for seniors. Power outages, freezing temperatures, and dangerous driving conditions can leave you stranded. As the snowy season approaches, you should:

• Pack a blizzard survival kit to use in the event of a power outage. Power outages during blizzards are very common, so you’ll need batteries, bottled water, canned food, several extra layers of clothing, a back-up supply of any medications, toilet paper, a battery-operated radio, flashlights, and any other daily essentials you use. 
• Never use a generator indoors. For those who have generators at home, remember to only run it when it’s outside. Generators emit carbon monoxide, an odorless and colorless gas, which is especially dangerous to older adults. 
• Use flashlights instead of candles. When the power goes out it can be tempting to light candles, but flashlights are a much safer alternative because there is no fire hazard. Stash some flashlights and several packs of batteries in the closet so they’re easy to access in the dark. 

Hurricanes

Although we usually get a hurricane warning a few days before it hits, it’s recommended to prepare when there is no threat. This is to ensure you’re not caught up in the flurry of activity several days before the hurricane makes landfall. Put together a hurricane kit with at least three days’ worth of the following supplies:

• Bottled water
• Nonperishable foods, like canned vegetables and fruits
• Dry goods like pretzels and protein bars
• Any medications you or your family take
• Flashlights and batteries

Hurricanes can leave  people confined to their homes for several days until it’s safe to go outside again. So similar to a blizzard, we recommend stocking up on all your essentials well ahead of time to avoid less than ideal driving conditions

You Are Safe from the Storm at UMC Pitman

Preparing for blizzards, hurricanes, or other severe weather events is something that’s easy to put on hold. However, being well-prepared and avoiding the frenzy is crucial, especially for older adults. If you or someone you love has mobility issues or is  cognitively impaired, we recommend taking time to be well-stocked with the provisions discussed above year-round.

At UMC Pitman, we take the safety of our residents very seriously. In the event of severe weather, we are prepared for and implement enhanced safety procedures that are immediately put into place. We understand it’s not always possible to physically be with your loved ones in assisted living during a severe weather event, like a hurricane, however our associates are all highly trained in how to keep everyone safe, connected, calm and out of harm’s way. 

For more information about assisted living at UMC Pitman, or one of our other communities across New Jersey, please contact United Methodist Communities today.

Original content posted on https://umcommunities.org/blog/severe-weather-tips-for-seniors/