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/

Financial Planning Tips for Retired Seniors

It’s no secret that retiring costs money. Not only do you have to be prepared for rising expenses and the eventual costs of assisted living services, but also you need to ensure that your money is protected from scams and spent within a realistic budget. Here are some helpful tips on financial planning for seniors from a leading assisted living facility in south New Jersey.

1. Cover all of your bases: When making a financial plan, be sure to consider your current and future living expenses, current and future sources of income (including benefits), the current and future value of assets, tax planning, insurance, and investments.
2. Get professional help: Financial planning can be complex, especially if you don’t have a background in finance or have managed your finances without professionals. However, it is essential that you get help from a qualified, reliable professional to ensure that your money remains safe and secure. The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority’s website helps explain what each qualification means and how to select a financial advisor.
3. Prepare for the worst case scenario: No one likes to think there will be a time when they will be unable to manage their finances, but it’s always best to prepare just in case. Have a list of the financial institutions you use along with account numbers and keep it in a safe place that is accessible by a trusted family member in emergencies. Consider hiring an estate planning attorney to draw a financial Power of Attorney document that puts your finances in the hands of someone you trust in case you are unable to manage them yourself. You can also work with your bank to add a co-owner to one or more of your accounts – but again, extend the privilege to someone reliable and trustworthy, as they will be able to withdraw from your account.
4. Be on the lookout for fraud: Seniors are a target for con artists, scams and fraud – whether from family members and caregivers or from professional fraudsters. Some indicators of fraudulent activity include unsolicited requests to pay a sum of money for an emergency situation or before receiving goods or services; any unsolicited requests for your bank account number, social security number or PIN; and investments that promise an excessively high return. Even financially savvy people can fall victim to fraud, so keep a close eye on your accounts, credit card bills and bank statements, and report anything suspicious as soon as possible.

High value assisted living in South New Jersey
United Methodist Communities at The Shores, a well-appointed residential assisted living community in southern New Jersey, offers customized services ranging from independent living to short-term rehabilitation, respite, and hospice and palliative care. Our dedicated team is happy to work with you to discuss assisted living costs and the services we offer.
To find out more about our individualized assisted living services and our senior living community, please contact us today and organize a visit.
This content was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/blog/financial-planning-tips-retired-seniors/.

How much does assisted living cost in New Jersey?

For many families, the cost of assisted living could be a barrier. Knowing the finances behind assisted living services and researching what different communities offer is key to finding affordable care that delivers a full and independent lifestyle.

The average cost of assisted living in the USA 

In the 2015 cost of care survey conducted by Genworth Financial, the average cost of assisted living in New Jersey for a one-bedroom, single occupancy apartment is $5,725 a month. However, it is important to realize the huge diversity in what different facilities offer, including their living accommodation, quality of life and services.

At United Methodist Homes of New Jersey, the cost of a full-service assisted living studio apartment starts at around $3,000per month plus the cost of any additional services. Depending on the services you require, the cost can fall anywhere between $3,000 and $9,000 per month.

What services are offered in New Jersey assisted living communities?

Services vary greatly between different assisted living communities. Some offer standard packages for senior care while others offer scalable services only when you require them. This ensures that you don’t pay for services that you don’t need.

For example, United Methodist Homes of New Jersey offers certain basic assisted living services that include:

• A daily meal or meals, if you require them
• Housekeeping services
• Building and apartment maintenance services
• Water, gas and electric utilities
• 24-hour security
• Community enrichment programs and events

However, these additional services are available if required:

• Alzheimer’s and memory care services – including the development of therapeutic everyday routines, companionship, and physical and mental fitness.
• Skilled nursing home care – pharmaceutical and laboratory services, social and educational activities, laundry services, limited transportation and personal care services.
• Short-term rehabilitation – physical, occupational and speech therapies.
• Hospice services – palliative care services to support patients and families, focusing on the patient’s total comfort.

Assisted living services customized to your needs 

At Pitman Manor, we offer a wide range of tailored support services for older adults in an environment that delivers the highest quality of life. Our residential programs and living options are designed to assist your loved one only when required, and to scale these services at any point if they require a higher level of care.

Pitman Manor serves Burlington, Camden, Salem and Gloucester County as well as the communities of Deptford Township, Glassboro, Harrison Township, Pitman, Sewell, Sicklerville, West Deptford, and Woodbury, New Jersey.

For more information, please contact UMH Pitman Manor today and ask about our assisted living programs or visit https://pitman.umcommunities.org.

This content was originally posted at http://www.umh-nj.org/blog/how-much-does-assisted-living-cost-in-new-jersey/

Your senior health guide to arthritis

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), arthritis affects more than one in five adults in the United States and is the country’s leading cause of disability. In this article, representatives from United Methodist Homes (UMH) of New Jersey answer the most commonly asked question about this condition.

What is arthritis? 

Arthritis is a term used to describe more than 100 different rheumatic diseases and conditions – those that affect the joints, surrounding tissue and connective tissues. Some forms of arthritis can also affect the immune system and specific internal organs.

What are the symptoms of arthritis? 

Although different rheumatic disorders have different symptoms, arthritis is generally linked to the slow but progressive development of joint pain, inflammation and stiffness. The symptoms are also usually more severe in the early morning or after a period of inactivity.

What are the most common types of arthritis?

• Osteoarthritis: This is a chronic disease that affects only the joints, causing progressive pain and stiffness. Joint pain is usually felt after repetitive use or long periods of inactivity. Severe cases lead to friction between the bones of the joints as protective cartilage is worn away. It is treated with low-impact activities, healthy weight maintenance and anti-inflammatories.
• Rheumatoid arthritis: This chronic autoimmune disease attacks the joints and other body parts. Symptoms can include joint pain and swelling and stiffness and warmth of the affected site. It can flare up and fade, often due to strenuous use or inactivity of the joint, but it cannot be cured. Usually, treatment involves nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids or disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, or a combination of these treatments.
• Gout: This is caused by high levels of uric acid in the body that form crystals in the joints. If untreated, these crystals can form tophi (lumps) within the joints and surrounding tissue. Gout can flare up quickly and without warning, leading to pain and inflammation. It is often treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and steroids.  After the attack dies down, medication and lifestyle changes can be implemented to reduce the risk of another attack.

Community-based senior living solutions for an independent lifestyle 

At United Methodist Homes of New Jersey, we offer a wide range of tailored support services for older adults in an environment that delivers the highest quality of life. Designed to enhance independence, our assisted living and senior living residential facilities are designed to assist your loved one’s individual needs, and to scale these services at any point if a different level of care is needed. In addition to catering  to independent seniors, we are also able to provide respite care and long-term care, as well as assist the needs of residents with conditions such as arthritis.

For more information, please contact UMH today or visit www.umh-nj.org.

This content was originally posted at http://www.umh-nj.org/blog/your-senior-health-guide-to-arthritis/

Five great services for seniors in Camden County

Having an active social life brings many great benefits to seniors, helping them to stay healthy, active and enjoy all that life has to offer. Camden County has an extensive range of senior services designed specifically to help seniors stay active members of their communities.

1. Camden County Cultural and Heritage Commission: The services this organization provides include art workshops, an art gallery and musical performances. They also offer musical performances for residents that are housebound. Located on S. Park Drive and Shady Lane, they can also be reached at (856) 858-0040.
2. Camden County Libraries: Free membership is available to all seniors living in member communities, including Gloucester Township, Haddon Township, Winslow Township, Bellmawr, Merchantville, and Camden.
3. State parks:Citizens 62 or older qualify for a Golden Passport (costing just $10) that allows access to all national parks, historic sites and recreational areas under the Federal Government. This passport also may include discounts on activities inside these areas, including camping, boat launching and parking.
4. Recreational trips:There is a year-long calendar filled with trips for seniors, including day trips, overnight stays and weeklong vacations. To find out more, contact the Senior Citizen United Community Services at (856) 456-1121.
5. The Walt Whitman Cultural Arts Center, Inc.: This center offers a full year calendar of cultural events for seniors, including plays, exhibits and poetry readings. While some events are free, any paid events carry a reduced fee for seniors.

Independent assisted living for seniors in New Jersey 

UMH Collingswood Manor in Camden County is designed to enhance independence. Our residential programs and living options assist your loved one only when they require it and scale these services at any point if a different level of care is needed. In addition to catering to independent seniors, we also offer care for  those needing assistance.

Collingswood Manor in Camden County NJ also serves residents of Gloucester County, Salem County and Cumberland County.and especially the towns of Collingswood, Camden, Cherry Hill, Gloucester, Pennsauken, Voorhees Township, and Winslow Township, New Jersey.

For more information, please contact UMH Collingswood Manor today and ask about our assisted living community  or visit http://www.collingswood-manor.umh-nj.org/.

This content was originally posted at http://www.umh-nj.org/blog/five-great-services-for-seniors-in-camden-county/

Celebrating Valentine's Day with your senior loved ones in Gloucester County, NJ

Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples – it’s a great opportunity to show the seniors in your life how much you love them! Fortunately, Gloucester County has a wide range of activities and attractions suitable for everyone, young and old.

For the foodies:

If your family loves great food and beautiful restaurants, then lunch or dinner at one of the area’s top restaurants will be a great treat! For ambience, comfort and great food, try any of the following restaurants:

• Rhode’s Fireside Restaurant and Tavern: For over 20 years, this restaurant has been offering the best in home-style cooking. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, they offer a menu that has all your family’s favorites.
• Guillermo’s on Broadway: If your family loves all things Italian, then this is the place to go. With an extensive menu that’s sure to please everyone, as well as your budget, this restaurant is perfect for a family lunch or dinner.

Other fun activities:

• Painting with a Twist: If you and your loved ones enjoy getting creative, then a day of painting could be the perfect outing. Ideal for any age, these artist-led events are designed to be relaxing and fun – and you get to go home with a work of art you can proudly display and share.
• Broadway Theatre: A beautiful French Revival theatre, this venue has a full program of live entertainment and classic films throughout the year.

A lively community for independent seniors in New Jersey 

At United Methodist Homes (UMH) of New Jersey, we offer a wide range of tailored support services for older adults in an environment that delivers the highest quality of life. For instance, Pitman Manor in Gloucester County is designed to enhance independence, while our residential programs and living options are designed to assist your loved one’s individual needs, which can be scaled at any point if they require a different level of care. In addition to catering for independent seniors, our services also offer expert care for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Pitman Manor serves Burlington, Camden, Salem and Gloucester counties as well as the communities of Deptford Township, Glassboro, Harrison Township, Pitman, Sewell, Sicklerville, West Deptford, and Woodbury, New Jersey.

Please contact UMH Pitman Manor today and ask about our assisted living community. For more information, visit http://www.pitman-manor.umh-nj.org/

This content was originally posted at http://www.umh-nj.org/blog/celebrating-valentines-day-with-your-senior-loved-ones-in-gloucester-county-nj/

Senior living tips: How to prevent falls

Falls in the home are one of the biggest risks facing seniors. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) say that one out of three seniors fall each year – and that falling once doubles the risk of a second fall.

This is a very serious issue for seniors, as falls carry a  high risk of broken bones and head injuries, with over 250,000 older adults needing hospitalization for hip fractures alone. In addition to carrying significant personal trauma and financial cost, injuries also tend to have a longer and more intensive recovery time as we age, requiring more extensive therapy and medical attention.

Here are some tips for minimizing the risk of falls in seniors’ homes: 

• De-clutter: Clutter creates tight spaces full of obstacles, making the home hard to move through freely. This can include anything from rooms overcrowded with furniture to stacks of books and magazines. Removing clutter and ensuring wide paths for walkers and wheelchairs will prevent collisions and injuries from falling items.
• Install good lighting: Poor lighting won’t just strain your eyes, it also makes it harder to see where you’re going – making good lighting (especially in hallways and on staircases) an essential safety feature. Installing nightlights by the bed is a great way to softly light a bedroom without having to get up in total darkness.
• Handrails: Installing handrails or grab bars in bathrooms and on stairs will help seniors to maneuver themselves more quickly and easily without loosing their balance.
• Remove tripping hazards: Things like loose rugs, polished floors, electrical cables and damaged floorboards can easily cause a fall. You can either repair the item or remove it from the home and replace it with something secure and safe to walk on.
• Non-slip carpeting and mats: Putting non-slip mats in bathtubs and showers will give your loved one an extra grip when bathing. They can also be placed on kitchen floors and tiled/smooth-surfaced outdoor areas that can get wet and slippery.
• Get the right clothing: Trousers and skirts that are too long are another serious tripping hazard for seniors. Correctly hemmed clothing will help increase comfort and safety. Also, check the soles of your loved one’s shoes for wear that can reduce their grip and, if your loved one likes wearing socks around the house, invest in some non-slip socks.

Our NJ Assisted Living Communities are designed with safety in mind 

At United Methodist Homes (UMH) of New Jersey, we offer all our residents comfortable and spacious senior living accommodations that are designed to meet senior safety standards – whether your loved one is independent or requires assisted living services. Complete with 24-hour emergency alert and fire safety systems, these apartments are well lit, fully equipped and easily navigable on foot, with a walker or in a wheelchair. We also offer housekeeping services, interior maintenance services, meal services and 24-hour access to licensed nurses for additional care and peace of mind.

For more information on our independent senior living, assisted living, long-term and nursing home care communities in Sussex County, Camden County, Monmouth County, greater Gloucester County and greater Cape May County in New Jersey, please contact us at UMH today or visit www.umh-nj.org for more information.

This content was originally posted at http://www.umh-nj.org/blog/senior-living-tips-how-to-prevent-falls/

What are the essential do’s and don’t’s of dementia care?

If you have a loved one with dementia, it’s important to know how to handle any challenges you may face when socializing with or caring for them. Here is some great advice from assisted living specialists in New Jersey.

How to manage aggression in dementia patients

It’s common for caregivers and loved ones to be confronted by aggression – verbally or physically – when assisting someone with dementia. While often an upsetting and frustrating experience, it’s important to understand why this behavior is occurring in order to handle it properly.

Key to this, is discovering what triggers the outbursts. The most common triggers include unfamiliar surroundings, physical discomfort and fear. So what should you do and what actions should you avoid?

DO: Try to identify what is at the root of the behavior and find a way to remedy the situation, keeping in mind that different things work for different people. For some people, talking calmly and gently touching them, helps to soothe – for others, it increases aggression. Another course of action is to ensure that they aren’t in harm’s way and simply walk away and give them the chance to calm themselves.

DON’T: Under no circumstances should you become confrontational or try and force your loved one to do whatever they are refusing to do. This will only escalate the situation.

How to manage a confused dementia patient

Because dementia affects the memory, confusion about time, places and people are common. People with dementia can easily become fearful or uncertain when they don’t recognize someone or their environment.

DO: Try simple explanations accompanied by familiar things such as photographs, favorite items or even scents. Remember your aim is to try help your loved one feel safe and in control, even if it means delaying an activity or social gathering until they feel comfortable.

DON’T: Don’t use lengthy explanations or reasoning to overcome these moments of confusion, as they simply aren’t effective. Short, to the point explanations or even therapeutic white lies are the fastest and most effective way of calming and helping your loved one – which is the priority during these moments.

Expert Memory Care and Support Services

At United Methodist Homes of New Jersey, we offer support services and assisted living communities specifically for Alzheimer’s and dementia residents in environments that deliver the highest quality of life. An individualized care plan, developed for each resident, addresses their unique needs and level of independence and focuses on everyday routines like cooking, gardening, socializing, setting the table and other common tasks within a community lifestyle. These memory care programs also include activities for general wellness such as fitness, music and other sensory-rich activities suited to your loved one’s enjoyment.

Our residences are designed to be comfortable and homey, encouraging independence while supplying essential support and onsite medical care. For more information on our memory support services for Alzheimer’s and dementia, please contact the nearest UMH today:

UMH Bristol Glen in Sussex County, NJ: (973) 300-5788

UMH Collingswood Manor in Camden County, NJ: (856) 854-4331

UMH Francis Asbury Manor in Monmouth County, NJ: (732) 774-1316

UMH Pitman Manor in Gloucester County, NJ: (856) 589-7800

UMH The Shores in Cape May County, NJ: 609-399-8505

For more information, please visit www.umh-nj.org.

This content was originally posted at http://www.umh-nj.org/blog/what-are-the-essential-dos-and-donts-of-dementia-care/

What customized care means at United Methodist Homes of NJ

At UMH, we often talk to our residents and their families as well as the community-at-large about providing customized long-term care. What does this really involve and how does it benefit our residents? All of our residents have varying levels of need, which explains why they selected the individualized care and support found at all UMH full-service communities. We offer residents a broad set of living solutions, including:

• Independent senior living in our continuing care retirement community Bristol Glen: This is ideal for retirees and seniors who would like to continue living an independent lifestyle but still have access to assisted living services and skilled nursing (if needed). This level of care is about keeping an upscale, high quality of life without having to manage arduous tasks such as home maintenance, housekeeping and daily transportation.
• Assisted living: This level of care is aimed at seniors who require more assistance in their daily lives regarding day-to-day tasks and medical support in addition to standard residential living services. This can include assistance with meals, mobility, personal care, health monitoring and daily reminders, as well as handyman and housekeeping services. An active social life and independence are still encouraged, as caregivers are able to support and assist in all tasks.
• Nursing home care and long-term care: This highest level of care is managed through skilled nursing, certified aides and therapists 24 hours a day. These services are designed to assist residents with complex and serious medical conditions that cannot be managed in a residential setting, including wound dressing, breathing rehabilitation, tube feeding and more. Nursing home care and long-term care is available as a permanent or temporary service as the resident requires.
• Short-term rehab: These services include speech, occupational and physical therapy programs designed to improve quality of life and wellness for seniors with a wide range of conditions. Through our rehab program, we are able to treat and improve wound healing, pain management, joint replacement, CVA stroke recovery, urinary incontinence, arthritis and much more.
• Respite: We offer nursing and rehabilitation assistance both during an illness and after a hospital visit. Respite care also provides peace of mind for caregivers looking for a safe, secure environment for their loved ones while taking a vacation, requiring time off for a specific purpose, or just desiring a much-needed break.
• Hospice:  Our hospice services are designed to give residents and their families the highest level of comfort, compassion and support through an experienced multidisciplinary team of specialists. Our aim to take care all medical, social, emotional, spiritual and other unique needs that often accompany this time, promoting dignity and serenity for residents as well as their loved ones.

Scalable senior care for every stage of life

Whatever care level best suits you or your loved one, we are able to further tailor our services to meet your exact needs – now and in the future. All our services are scalable, enabling residents to stay in their communities as long as they are able and receive the right level of care and support as and when they require it. For us, customizable services means getting the exact support our residents need to live full and dignified lives.

To find out more about our senior retirement communities and assisted living services, please contact us today or visit www.umh-nj.org.

This content was originally published at http://www.umh-nj.org/blog/what-customized-care-means-at-united-methodist-homes-of-nj/

Christmas activities your whole family will love.

The festive holiday season is a great time to relax and enjoy the company of friends and family, especially in New Jersey. With numerous cultural events, markets and productions, there’s plenty to do for kids, grandparents and everyone in between.

• The Nutcracker: This year, NJ Ballet and the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra are putting on a world-class production of The Nutcracker. From the 11^th to the 26^th of December at the Moyo Performing Arts Center, this beautiful holiday classic will be an enchanting experience for all.
• The Holiday Candlelight Tour of Liberty Hall: If you love Christmas decorations, this is the tour for you. Showcasing festive décor from the 1910s to the 1950s, this one-night only experience promises to be as fascinating as it is beautiful. It will take place in Union NJ on the 6^th of December and there will be three tours: 5:00 pm, 6:30 pm and 8:00 pm.
• Gingerbread House Workshop: Held at the Liberty Hall Museum in Union NJ, this popular event is a favorite for families with a sweet tooth. Held every Saturday from the 13^th to the 20^th, in two sessions (10:00 am - 11:30 am, and 12:00 noon - 1:30 pm), children get to decorate their own gingerbread houses with gumdrops, candy canes and other seasonal treats.
• Smithville holiday lights show: If you’re in the Southern Shore Region, be sure to visit this famous historic village. A special light show involving over 100 trees and a beautifully decorated Victorian-style village await you and, on Hospitality Night (December 6^th), the town will be filled with merchants offering treats, discounted goods and artworks.
• Adventure Aquarium: For the festive season, the aquarium, located in Camden, is transformed into an underwater Christmas wonderland, complete with twinkling lights, falling snow and SCUBA Santa. Come and visit with the whole family from November 28^th to January 1^st.

Independent living, assisted living and long term care specialists

At United Methodist Homes of New Jersey, we pride ourselves on delivering the best possible services for retirees and senior citizens. With a wide range of services and care options tailored to your needs, our highly trained and caring staff are dedicated to maintaining your independence and dignity. Our senior living communities have an extensive range of amenities and a strong social component, encouraging all our residents to live an abundant life.

For more information, please contact us today or visit www.umh-nj.org.

This content was originally posted at http://www.umh-nj.org/blog/christmas-activities-your-whole-family-will-love/

Six simple and effective health tips for seniors

Staying healthy isn’t just about living longer, it’s about living better too. Keeping active as we age is directly linked to maintaining our quality of life as well as fighting mental and physical conditions. Unfortunately, it can become more and more of a challenge as we get older. Here are some great tips from Pitman Manor senior living community:

1. Find an activity you enjoy: You’re far more likely to stick with an activity you enjoy, so take some time to explore your options. For example, if you loved hiking in your youth, then regular nature walks with friends and other seniors are a great choice.
2. Don’t forget about mental exercise: Staying active isn’t just about physical health – mental fitness is just as important. Learning to play bridge, competing in crossword competitions and indulging in Sudoku are ideal mental challenges.
3. Manage your stress levels: Stress is well known for negatively affecting our mental and physical wellbeing, so finding an effective outlet is a good way to keep your health on track. Many people find physical exercise helpful, while others prefer meditation or yoga. Relaxing social engagements with the people you love and enjoy are great ways to release stress as well.
4. Good nutrition: It’s never too late to develop good eating habits. Proper nutrition can help fight a wide range of issues seniors often struggle with, from helping to control weight, osteoporosis, blood pressure and diabetes, to reducing your risk of heart disease.
5. Annual checkups: Regular checkups are key to senior health, helping you stay in control of any health issues and deal with any emerging conditions effectively. Your top priorities should include your eye doctor and dentist, as well as any specialists you require.
6. Take preventative measures: Falls are among the most common reasons for seniors needing medical treatment and, as we get older, it often becomes harder to heal and bounce back from injuries. Although staying physically healthy is a great way to combat this, removing hazards in your home is vital to preventing injuries in the first place. Rugs that can be tripped over, stairs, poor lighting and bathrooms without grab bars are good examples of hazards which should be dealt with.

Pitman Manor Assisted Living – Simple living, great quality of life 

Pitman Manoris an assisted living community dedicated to helping older adults live full, happy lives. With an active community spirit, great amenities, spacious  studio apartments, expert medical care and tailored support services designed to maximize independence, we’re a welcoming space for seniors to really feel at home.

For more information, please contact us today to schedule a tour or visit http://www.pitman-manor.umh-nj.org/assisted-living-gloucester-county-nj/.

This content was originally posted at http://www.umh-nj.org/blog/six-simple-and-effective-health-tips-for-seniors/

Understanding The Difference Between Independent Living And Assisted Living

Ultimately the choice between assisted living and independent living should be determined by the needs of your elderly loved one. If an aging adult has difficulties with daily activities or anticipates their needs changing in the near future, he or she may want to consider moving to an assisted or independent living community. To make the best decision, it is helpful to fully understand the differences between these lifestyle options.

What is Independent Living? 

Independent living is ideal for individuals who can still live without assistance but enjoy the peace of mind of having access to assistance when needed. Also known as Continuing Care Retirement Community living, an independent lifestyle minimizes personal chores and errands along with the costs and stress of home ownership.

Independent living services include:

• Housekeeping.
• Handyman/maintenance services.
• Meal options.
• 24-hour security, home alert system and access to nursing care.
• Utilities cost (excluding cable television and telephone).
• Transport services.
• Social activities within the community.
• Scalable services to increase support as and when it is required.

What is Assisted Living? 

Assisted living is designed for seniors who can no longer live safely on their own but don’t require advanced medical care like that provided by a nursing home. As part of an assisted living program, a resident would move into a private apartment in the community that offers an ideal living space – compact, easy to navigate and fitted with grab bars and a walk-in shower with seating.

Assisted living will ensure you stay as independent as possible with access to support services, including:

• Housekeeping.
• Handyman/maintenance services.
• Health monitoring.
• Up to three meals daily.
• Reminders for daily activities/medication reminders.
• Personal care and hygiene assistance.
• Transport services.
• 24-hour security, home alert system and access to nursing care.
• Onsite physical, occupational and speech therapies.
• Social activities within the community.

When considering senior living options, it is usually a good idea to plan with the future in mind. Bristol Glen offers both assisted and independent living options so residents can adjust their lifestyle based on their changing needs. For more information about United Methodist Homes of New Jersey visit www.uhm-nj.org

This content was originally posted at http://www.umh-nj.org/blog/understanding-the-difference-assisted-living-independent-living/

Independent Living Or Assisted Living – How To Determine Which Senior Living Option Is Right For You Or Your Elderly Loved One

Finding the right senior living option is all about understanding your needs and determining the types of services that best fit those needs. Two of the most popular options are independent living and assisted living. Here’s a quick guide to each of these options to help you make an informed choice.

Is Independent Living Right for You? 

Independent living is all about keeping seniors healthy, active and safe. Ask yourself these questions and find out if this is the senior living option that suits you:

• Are you finding maintaining your home is becoming too much work?
• Is your home too big for you and are you looking to downsize?
• Are you looking for a community in which you can be active and make friends?
• Are you worried your current home has become unsuitable for  you (e.g. It has a lot of stairs or tripping hazards)?
• Do you want more time to pursue your interests and hobbies?
• Do you want access to trained home health services  if needed, but do not require medical attention?

If you have answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, then you are likely to be a good match for an independent living community. These communities are designed for healthy seniors who are looking to maintain their independence, remove the stress of owning and maintaining a house and have the freedom to enjoy their hobbies and social lives. Residents at Bristol Glen’s Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) enjoy spacious apartment homes, a host of onsite amenities and independent living with the fulfilling companionship of friends and neighbors. While independence and dignity are maximized, safety and security are also of utmost importance at all of our communities. At Bristol Glen an independent living lifestyle is combined with access to assisted living services and skilled nursing all under one roof. Residents feel safe and their loved ones can rest assured that all needs are being met.

Is Assisted Living Right for You? 

Assisted living is also focused on maintaining your independence and quality of life, but is generally more suited to seniors who require more support. Ask yourself these questions and find out if this is the senior living option that suits you:

• Is maintaining your home becoming stressful and expensive?
• Has your home become unsuitable to your needs (e.g. It has a lot of stairs) or is it too big?
• Do you have a medical condition that requires support?
• Do you require assistance with transport, bathing, dressing, meal preparation or medication administration?
• Do you want more time to pursue your interests and social activities?

If you have answered ‘yes’ to these questions, then you are likely to be a good match for an assisted living community. With a higher level of support and care, both medically and with daily tasks and errands, this is an ideal community for seniors who need additional support to maintain a high quality of life and independence. Assisted Living Services are offered to residents in all United Methodist Homes of New Jersey full service communities. Assisted living residents benefit from both medical and non-medical assistance as needed. Senior care services include housekeeping, medication assistance, health monitoring, reminders and/or assistance with activities of daily living, personal care, concierge services, and more.  

At United Methodist Homes of New Jersey, our aim is to ensure that each of our residents maintain their dignity, quality of life and independence. Our independent living and assisted living communities ensure residents are encouraged to get involved with the community at a level they are comfortable with. We tailor our services to make sure each resident gets the help and support they require to live a full and happy life as they age. For more information please visit www.umh-nj.org.

This content was originally posted at http://www.umh-nj.org/blog/independent-living-or-assisted-living-how-to-determine-which-senior-living-option-is-right-for-you-or-your-elderly-loved-one/

Compassionate assisted living in NJ

United Methodist Homes’ assisted living communities in NJ offers apartment or condo style living, ensuring that each resident can live and maintain dignity and independence. For more info, visit http://www.umh-nj.org/