Manor Lake BridgeMill Blog
About Long-Term Care Insurance and Professional Assisted Living Services
21 January 2020
Suppose your elderly mother or father is struggling with day-to-day activities like laundry, cleaning and cooking. But he or she is not truly ill and doesn’t need a high level of daily health care. You worry about him or her walking up and down stairs or carrying a bag of groceries. An assisted community like ours here at Canton’s Manor Lake Assisted Living & Memory Care can serve as the perfect protective measure and path to providing them the very best quality of life possible.
What Is Assisted Living?
Assisted Living is perfect for seniors who are mostly independent, yet need help managing medications and meals. But there’s much more to Assisted Living than that. Manor Lake Canton’s assisted living services include housekeeping, laundry, and a host of activities that our residents love. Hot and delicious meals are served three times a day and snacks are available all day. Assisted living is a type of communal living that seniors and their families choose when they are healthy but need a bit of extra help. Assisted living is a great intermediate step on the continuum of elderly care.
Assisted living is commonly paid for by individuals’ long-term care insurance. However, long-term care insurance coverage varies widely, and you need to know the details of your policy. In general, long-term care insurance is flexible along the continuum of care. It can pay for both assisted living and memory care services. Some policies allow you to tap long-term care policies for in-home services, but most are written to cover professional services such as ours.
If you live in or around the Canton area and ever have questions about the challenges of creating a 24/7 safe and loving atmosphere for your senior loved on, we’re here to help. We want to develop a relationship with you based on trust and a common love for our ageing loved ones. We trust that when the time comes, you’ll team with us for your professional senior assisted living support services. Together, we’ll provide the best loving care possible. Give us a call. Let’s talk.
Senior and Memory Care Super Foods
13 January 2020
We want to thank in advance “Active Beat” who publishes insightful works on healthy lifestyles. They recently offered advice for senior care givers regarding nutritional health. Here at Canton’s Manor Lake Assisted Living & Memory Care, we gladly share the following with you today whether you’re providing senior assisted living support or any form of memory care support services to your beloved. Afterall, we’re all in this together.
If you provide senior assisted living care for a loved one, you may already include supplements in order to boost their memory and protect against age-related memory decline. If you care for an already diagnosed Alzheimer’s or related dementia condition you likely are administering physician prescribed supplements. Regardless, researchers at Yale University claim that the body doesn’t absorb nutritional supplements quite as effectively as it does natural foods.
Whether you’re preventing a family history of dementia and Alzheimer’s, or just looking to reduce risk in general, researchers recommend following the “MIND” diet which is short for Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay. It touts eating a more plant-based diet with limited red meat, saturated fats and sweets, says Mayo Clinic. And when it comes to brain-boosting Alzheimer’s-fighting super foods, these 12 foods should be at the top of your shopping list.
Berries
You likely already know that berries—such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries—are considered superfoods. This is due to the fact that they deliver a boatload of antioxidants in each bite! Antioxidants have long been linked to enhance cognitive function in dementia and Alzheimer’s patients. However, a study published by the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease discovered that high-antioxidant berries were able to reduce plaque in the brain, which is thought to cause Alzheimer’s.
Chatelaine writes that blueberries in particular are among the best. “They contain flavonoids, which activate brain pathways associated with less cellular aging,” writes the source. WebMD also points out that berries have been linked to slowing down the symptoms of Alzheimer’s. We suggest eating about 1/2 cup three times a week.
Super Spices
Do you know what spices like turmeric, cocoa, cinnamon, and nutmeg have in common? According to the journal Central Nervous Systems Agents in Medicinal Chemistry, these spices contain certain polyphenols and compounds with numerous cognitive advantages. The journal research outlines the many gluco-recovery, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties in these spices and theorizes on their Alzheimer’s prevention connection.
MindBodyGreen also explains that “these spices can all help to break up brain plaque and reduce inflammation of the brain which can cause memory issues.” The foods on this list will not only help improve brain function, but fight off illnesses that cause our brains to age prematurely like obesity, heart disease, diabetes and hypertension.
Omega-3’s
Natural foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids—namely nuts, flaxseeds, and certain types of fish—have long been linked to Alzheimer’s prevention. And even though much speculation can be found, more research must be conducted for undeniable scientific proof. However, research in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease as well as the European Journal of Nutrition, details how omega-3-rich foods can help decrease the rate of cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s patients.
Fatty fish like salmon and trout are particularly good because the iodine and iron “help maintain cognitive function” and they contain “brain boosting omega-3 fatty acids.” You should be eating these types of fish at least two or three times a week.
Coconut Oil
I know, here we go about the coconut oil—yet again! But really, research from the Journal of the American Academy of Physician Assistants has found evidence of coconut’s oil’s effectiveness in the fight against dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Akin to olive oil, coconut oil is known for it’s rich polyphenol content. The same study credits unique phenols in coconut oil with neuro-protective abilities.
Leafy Greens
Dark, leafy green vegetables are among the best foods for us. No matter what, we should all be eating these veggies. But people who are at a high risk for dementia or Alzheimer’s should definitely be loading up on these. According to findings from the Journal of Nutritional Health and Aging, increasing your consumption of leafy greens will decrease the risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia—and they’re just plain good for you!
The best leafy greens are spinach, kale, and romaine. They are loaded with brain-boosting antioxidants and vitamin K, both of which act as brain shields when it comes to warding off age-related cognitive decline. It’s important to note that if you’re taking blood thinners, you should consult with a doctor before loading up on too much vitamin K.
Cruciferous Vegetables
Just like leafy greens, we should all be eating these veggies on a regular basis. They are just as important as leafy greens because like kale and spinach, broccoli, cauliflower and Brussel sprouts are all high in vitamin K. Chatelaine also notes that they are high in glucosinolates which have an antioxidant effect, as well as folate and carotenoids that lower homo-cysteine and fight cognitive impairment, says MindBodyGreen. The source recommends eating at least 1/2 cup every week.
Other vegetables that are important to eat when it comes to improving brain health are pumpkin, squash, asparagus, tomatoes, carrots and beets. MindBodyGreen says when these foods aren’t overcooked they contain lots of vitamin A, folate and iron which can help with cognition.
Beans and Legumes
Foods like beans, chickpeas, and lentils are all good for us, specifically our brain health because they are loaded with antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. MindBodyGreen writes, “these foods contain more folate, iron, magnesium and potassium that can help with general body function and neuron firing.” The source also states that they contain choline, which is a B vitamin that boosts acetylcholine (a neuro transmitter critical for brain function).
We suggest swapping out red meat for 1/2 up of beans or legumes at least twice a week.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts are one of those foods that can be really healthy for us if we eat them properly. Plus they make for a really easy go-to snack! Our first rule is that they need to be unsalted. The other golden rule with nuts and seeds is that they are to be enjoyed in moderation because they contain lots of healthy fats.
Chatelaine says walnuts are among the best nuts because they are high in “omega-3 fatty acid, a brain-protective nutrient” which also makes them great for fighting off Alzheimer’s disease. The source also suggests eating only 1/4 cup or two tablespoons of a nut butter daily.
Chicken
Unless you’re a vegetarian, you probably already eat chicken quite frequently throughout the week. Thankfully, it’s a great option and should be easily substituted for red or processed meat whenever possible. However, we suggest only eating one serving a day.
Of course, it’s important to note that we’re not talking about fried chicken or flash-frozen chicken like the boxed version you probably purchased at the grocery store. We’re talking about a nice lean, grilled piece of chicken.
Whole Grains
Whole grains play an important role in the “MIND” diet. “Choose fibre-rich whole grains like oats, brown rice, and whole-grain wheat to offset your intake of refined grains,” writes Chatelaine.
Olive Oil
Olive oil isn’t a food or snack per se, but it’s a common ingredient used in the kitchen and should be preferred over other popular oils. You should be using it when cooking and can even try it as a salad dressing because unlike other unhealthy options, it contains monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, and antioxidants. WebMD points out that olive oil has “been shown to improve brain function over the long term and protect against dementia.”
Red Wine
You might be wondering what wine is doing on this list, but red wine has actually been shown to improve brain health and protect against Alzheimer’s! WebMD explains that several studies have shown this to be true, however in order for it to work, the wine must be enjoyed in moderation. Women should only drink one glass a day and in the case of men, it can be up to two. It’s important to note, that if you drink too much red wine it could have the opposite affect and make you more likely to get dementia, says the source.
We hope you found this blog post both interesting and insightful as you care for your senior or memory challenged loved one. If you provide assisted living services to a loved one in or around the Canton area, or if you provide memory care services to a loved one, please know that you are not alone in your support challenges. We’re here for you, anytime! Why not give us a call!
Tips For You New Senior Assisted Living Care Givers
6 January 2020
Well, the new year is upon us. It’s early January and from experience, we here at Canton’s Manor Lake Assisted Living and Memory Care know that many of you purposely (and understandably) chose to ignore the notion that your senior loved one is now fully dependent. That is something so many of us simply do not want to address during the Holidays. But now you feel you can no longer prolong the fact that you must prepare for a monumental life change, for everyone involved.
When a senior’s health begins to decline, an adult child or other loved one may take on a few tasks to help. Aiding with chores like grocery shopping and mowing the lawn can allow the older adult to remain in their home. As the senior’s needs worsen, loved ones often take on more responsibilities.
For some families, however, it is a crisis of some kind that causes them to assume the role of family caregiver. The senior might have experienced a fall or been diagnosed with a chronic illness. In these situations, a caregiver may find themselves struggling to juggle all their loved one’s needs. It can be an overwhelming transition for people to make.
If you are in this situation, we have some suggestions to help new family caregivers like you manage the role.
5 Tips for New Caregivers
- Accept the idea need help
One belief family caregivers often have is that they should be able to manage their senior loved one’s care on their own. This is rarely possible. Acknowledge that you will need to ask for help and give yourself permission to accept assistance when it is offered.
Support for caregivers can come in many forms. It could be allowing a friend to stay with your loved one for an hour or two while you relax and take in a movie or spend some time with your spouse. A friend may also be able to help by picking up a few groceries or dropping off dinner. - Get organized
Caregivers say they feel an extraordinary amount of stress when initially stepping into the caregiving role. Part of that stress comes from worrying they are forgetting crucial appointments or other important tasks. Getting organized can help relieve some of that anxiety.
First, ask a friend or family member to stay with your loved one for a few hours so you can sort and organize all their important health care paperwork and legal documents. Place these in a binder by topic or date (e.g., test results, medication list, and physician contact information).
Next, add all the senior’s appointments and follow-up tasks to your personal calendar. This helps to avoid double-booking yourself or missing something crucial. Not having to rely on your memory can alleviate some of your stress. - Establish and stick to a routine
This step may take some time to implement but having a routine to follow can help caregiving days run more smoothly. Try to cluster errands and appointments on one or two days each week. This allows you to have uninterrupted days at work and at home. It also requires fewer arrangements for a friend or family member to stay with your loved one. - Connect with a caregiver support group
Caregivers face unique challenges that others may not understand. From offering tips on juggling a busy caregiving schedule to commiserating over how much time is spent waiting for a specialist to see the older adult, having a support network of peers is helpful.
Support groups also help with the emotional side of caregiving. Peers can empathize when you are feeling guilty, resentful, angry, or sad. - Practice good self-care
Much like the flight attendant on a plane explaining you should place a mask over your mouth before helping others, a caregiver must make good self-care a priority. You can’t care for your loved one if you are exhausted and sick yourself. Caregivers who don’t take care of themselves often experience a medical crisis of their own.
Our Final Suggestion
Our final suggestion is to become acquainted with us before you need us. We understand what you’re going through and can help you. We want to develop a trust and understanding and when the time comes, we hope that you’ll team with us for your professional senior assisted living support services. Together, we’ll provide the best loving care possible.
Give us a call. Let’s talk.
Merry Christmas and Happy Chanukah to You and Yours this Season
23 December 2019
Christmas and Chanukah share a similar spiritual message: that it is possible to bring light and hope into the world. These two holidays occur together this year, which makes this an even more special holiday season.
This is a season to reflect upon how fortunate we are to have you as our customers: our friends and neighbors. During these holidays, we wish you, your family, and your friends a safe, joy-filled, and relaxing season.
Warm wishes for a Happy Hanukkah, a Merry Christmas, and a most Happy New Year! With peace, joy, and love this holiday season and beyond!
How Dementia And Senior Care Supporters Help Themselves and Loved Ones Find Joy during Every Season
9 December 2019
Well, Thanksgiving has come and gone, and we are smack in the middle of the Christmas/Holiday season. Your loved one who’s now living with dementia or the multiple challenges of senior life have always been the cornerstone of family Holidays and traditions. The challenges increase for all caregivers to continue the tradition with each new passing Holiday season. So, your friends, memory care professionals, and assisted living professionals here at Manor Lake Assisted Living & Memory Care here in Canton are back to offer you all some advice as once again you negotiate the Holiday season as a primary care giver.
Shop from home. Shopping, while oftentimes a large part of the season, will most likely bring undue stress to both the person living with dementia and the family caregiver. Avoid the sensory overload, large crowds, and confusing environment by shopping online or through a catalogue with your loved one. They can still choose gifts for the family but will be able to do so in the comfort and safety of their own home.
Create a new take on old traditions. Holiday family outings, such as outdoor ice-skating, caroling, or seeing “The Nutcracker” at a local playhouse, hold fond memories — but may not be feasible in the wake of dementia. Revamp these holiday traditions by taking a snowy day walk, lighting a fire and listening to Christmas music, or finding a version of “The Nutcracker” on DVD for family movie night. Time spent with family is the most important thing during holidays — the ice-skating, caroling and theatre are simply activities.
Remember a few of your favorite things. While it may seem like this year is going to be different than all the rest, it’s important (for both the caregiver and the person with dementia) to reminisce holidays past. Take the time during a holiday family get-together to share photos from previous celebrations, to recall funny family bloopers, and to engage in activities that your loved one is still able to — like decorating the Christmas tree or helping bake holiday treats.
As you’re adjusting to how things will be this holiday season (and those to come) — instead of how things once were — it’s important to remember the good and to hold onto joyful past memories in the wake of holiday stress. Focusing on the positive, rather than becoming overwhelmed by the negative, will not only help you cope and celebrate, but also encourage your loved one to enjoy such a special time, and to be at peace.
For those of you selflessly exercising the labor of love caring for you memory challenged or physically challenged loved ones, all of us at Manor Lake Assisted Living & Memory Care in Canton hold you in the highest regard. We wish you and your entire family warmth and peace throughout this holiday season and going forward into 2020.
Now is the Time for Us to Say "Thanks" to YOU!
27 November 2019
Thanksgiving Day is the perfect time to remind one another of the many reasons there are to be grateful. We gather on this day to be thankful for what we have, for the family we love, the friends we cherish, the success we have had, and for the blessings that will come.
Thanksgiving is more than the festivities, it gives us time to ponder the lessons that we have learned and how we can spread happiness around, to look back at all the great memories and good people who came into our lives. We appreciate you, our customers and clients, so much.
At this time of year our thoughts turn gratefully to you with warm appreciation. Our best wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving Holiday Planning for Our Senior Living and Memory Care Loved Ones
18 November 2019
By now I think all of you realize that here at Canton’s Manor Lake Assisted Living & Memory Care, we invest in managing this blog as a service to our cherished residents, their families, and to the countless angels out there who lovingly provide self-help at-home senior care services. We feel a heartfelt responsibility to freely share our professional knowledge regarding professional assisted living and memory care support. We are fully aware of the vast weight of the labor of love that all of you bear regardless of the level of professional support that you currently secure.
While this Thanksgiving-related blog post is heavily focused on those of you who care for a loved one with memory care issues, so much of this messaging can be directly applicable to those providing senior assisted living support to someone without memory issues.
Thanksgiving is a time for family and friends to gather to give thanks, catch up and share a special meal together. However, when a family member is diagnosed with a dementia, such as Alzheimer’s disease, the family dynamic changes dramatically. Nowhere is this more evident than at holiday gatherings. The hustle and bustle of a typical family Thanksgiving can cause extreme levels of anxiety for someone with dementia, turning a wonderful day into a confusing and agonizing ordeal. Consequently, for the family caregiver, it can become a day full of tension as they watch over their loved one with anxious eyes.
It doesn’t have to be that way. With advance planning and preparation, Thanksgiving can still be enjoyed by everyone, even the family member with dementia. To be successful, however, you do need to plan and structure the day for the best possible outcome.
Here are some tips we’ve gathered, contributed by individuals with dementia, families and caregivers:
- Prepare family and friends. Share your loved one’s diagnosis with those who will be attending your Thanksgiving dinner. Explain the limitations the disease has created. Educate them as to the proper way to approach and communicate with your loved one, and how to include him or her in the conversation as much as possible.
- Prepare your loved one. Make sure that he or she has had enough rest. Keep to your regular routine as much as possible during the days leading up to Thanksgiving.
- Ask for help. Ask family members for help with shopping and cooking in advance. Many families enjoy a potluck Thanksgiving to which everyone brings a dish. This can be a lifesaver in a household with a loved one challenged by dementia. You might also consider asking a relative who is close to your loved one to help by keeping an eye on his or her anxiety levels as the day progresses. They can be a big help when you are busy with other guests and duties.
- Schedule dinner early in the day. Individuals with dementia are particularly sensitive to the hours between daylight and evening. This is called “Sundown Syndrome” and, fortunately, there are ways to reduce its impact. One way is to schedule your dinner well before sunset.
- Encourage reminiscing about the past. If your loved one still has longer term memory intact, consider bringing out some old photo albums and putting them in convenient places to inspire conversation. This can be a great way for younger family members to engage with your loved one, as well as with other older family members.
- Provide a quiet place for “down time”. A short nap or some quiet time off in a separate area provides a nice break for someone with Dementia. Ideally, this would be a quiet room off the main area, where he or she can relax out of the center of activity. Often, for those in earlier stages of Dementia, a short refreshing nap is all that is needed to enable them to rejoin the festivities.
- Plan your own post-Thanksgiving “down time”. This is so important for caregivers. You need time to yourself to unwind and relax. If you are the primary caregiver, consider scheduling some short term “respite” care at a local memory care community for your loved one. That will give you time to tend to your own physical and emotional health and enjoy some time on your own with friends and family members.
If your loved one is one of our cherished memory care residents here at Manor Lake, consider bringing some of your Thanksgiving cheer to them, rather than disrupting their routine by transporting them to your gathering.
For more information about senior living or memory care services here in Canton, contact us anytime.
We Invite You to Take a Virtual Tour of our Community
13 November 2019
Today’s blog post is a tribute to our staff who work so hard each day to create the safe, clean, and genuinely attractive living environment that every resident deserves. We invite the followers of our blog to take a walk through our gallery page and see with your own eyes the physical layout of our warm and friendly community. We think you’ll be impressed, and we gladly welcome the opportunity to show it off to you personally.
For those of you who don’t know us well, we specialize in both assisted living and memory care support services to the greater Canton, Ga area and beyond. We freely welcome the opportunity to engage you and your questions regarding the nature and considerations of assisted living and memory care services. To do that, contact Manor Lake Assisted Living and Memory Care here in Canton.
Assisted Living or Memory Care for Early Dementia
6 November 2019
Today’s blog post is designed to help those of you out there trying to decide the strategic care plan for a loved one suffering from the early stages of Alzheimer’s or other dementia-related disease. It is very common for all of you care providers to be confused regarding exactly what type of professional care is best now, assisted living or memory care. We are proud to inform that we lovingly provide both services here at Manor Lake Assisted Living & Memory Care BridgeMill here in Canton. We thought we’d share the following with you while crediting dementiacarecentral.com for insightful and informative narrative on this subject.
Even with help from community-based services and respite services, providing care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease (A/D) or dementia becomes more difficult with time. In later stages of the disease, many people will require more care and assistance than their family members can provide. Even for people who don’t need intensive hands-on care, safety may be an issue and they may not be able to stay home alone. Residential care options may be able to provide best for the needs of some individuals. However, these options are often considerations that caregivers and their families find difficult to plan for, or to even discuss.
Residential Care Options for Dementia
The natural progression of Alzheimer’s Disease, as well as other forms of dementia, will result in the need for care for loved ones. Depending on one’s stage of Alzheimer’s/dementia, and his/her ability to function, the level of care and supervision that is required varies. For most families, this means some form of residential care. This is where assisted living, “memory care” comes into play.
Assisted Living Communities
Assisted living residences, such as continuing care retirement communities, are especially suited for those individuals in the earlier stages of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia who do not have many medical problems, but who do need more intensive support for Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs). Many people with dementia will need help with IADLs. These are activities that we perform from day to day that add to our quality of life, but are not as basic to self-care as Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). ADLs are the basic activities that we must perform every day in order to take care of ourselves. Individuals with dementia may also need help with these tasks.
The following tasks are considered to be IADLs:
- Managing money (i.e., writing checks, handling cash, keeping a budget)
- Managing medications (i.e., taking the appropriate dose of medication at the right time)
- Cooking (i.e., preparing meals or snacks, microwave/stove usage)
- Housekeeping (i.e., performing light and heavy chores, such as dusting or mowing the lawn)
- Using appliances (i.e., using the telephone, television, or vacuum appropriately)
- Shopping (i.e., purchasing, discerning between items)
- Extracurriculars (i.e., maintaining a hobby or some sort of leisure activities)
Typically, ADLs refers to the following tasks:
- Bathing (i.e., able to bathe without assistance in cleaning or getting into tub or shower)
- Toilet Use (i.e., able to use the toilet and clean oneself afterwards)
- Control or continence of urine and bowels (i.e., able to wait for the right time and the right place)
- Dressing and grooming (i.e., able to button a shirt, choosing appropriate clothing)
- Moving about (i.e., able to move in and out of a chair or bed, walking)
- Eating (i.e., able to eat without having to be fed by another)
Those who are in the middle-stage of dementia require a greater amount of supervision and care than those in early-stage dementia, and for those in middle-stage dementia, assisted living is also a good option. In assisted living facilities, individuals generally live in a private studio, private apartment, or a shared apartment, and have staff available to assist them 24-hours / day. This type of living arrangement is ideal for those who are still able to live with some independence but do require assistance with ADLs. Transportation to and from doctor’s appointments and social activities are also offered at assisted living facilities. In addition, assisted living facilities have dining halls where residents gather to eat meals.
Memory Care
For individuals with dementia who require a higher level of skilled care and supervision, memory care units are an ideal option. These units offer both private and shared living spaces. Sometimes they exist as a wing within an assisted living facility or nursing home or they sometimes operate as stand-alone residences. Supervised care is provided twenty-four hours / day by staff trained to care for the specific needs and demands of dementia patients. Memory care units offer the same services as assisted living facilities, in addition to activities that are intended to stimulate the memory of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementias, and possibly slow the progression of the disease. Activities may involve music, arts and crafts, games, and more.
For more information, contact Manor Lake Assisted Living and Memory Care here in Canton.
Source: dementiacarecentral.com
Is Your Loved One Developing Alzheimer's Disease
28 October 2019
We take great pride here at Manor Lake Assisted Living and Memory Care here in Canton to share our knowledge and stories to help as many people as possible. For those of you struggling to care for loved ones in need of memory care support, we understand your challenges and the huge labor of love that you bear.
Today we’ll share with you the most common symptoms shared by Alzheimer’s and related dementia disorders. The symptoms include any combination of the following:
- Memory Loss – People may forget things they’ve learned as well as dates and events. They may also ask for the same information repeatedly.
- Trouble Planning or Solving Problems – You may notice a loved one taking longer to complete tasks they used to be able to do much quicker. You may also notice they have trouble following directions, even a simple recipe becomes complex.
- Confusion with Time or Place – People with Alzheimer’s often lose track of time. They also forget where they are and even how they got there.
- Misplacing Things & Unable to Retrace Steps – As people forget dates and events they may also start to misplace objects. Although they would be able to retrace their steps in the past and find what they were looking for, that is no longer the case. This may lead them to accuse others of stealing because they can no longer find what’s theirs.
- Mood & Personality Changes – Because of the changes that are going on in their mind, you may notice major shifts in mood and personality. They may become confused, suspicious and even depressed.
Helping People with Alzheimer’s Disease
Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, there are things you can do to slow its onset and to maximize your loved one’s quality of life. The ability to deliver positive effect is especially enhanced if the disease is still in its early stages.
- Keep a Daily Routine – This helps to avoid confusion and lets the person know what can be expected. Alzheimer’s patients like routines.
- Don’t Overstimulate – Keep things simple. Say one thing at a time. Present only one idea so that the person can understand it the best they can.
- Be Reassuring – Always try to make the person feel safe and comfortable. Sometimes even saying the words, “You are safe with me” is enough to make that person feel at ease.
- Don’t Yell or Argue – As frustrated as you may get, imagine how the patient feels. They can no longer grasp what is going on inside their own heads. Don’t yell or argue out of frustration. Be the calming voice they need.
While you may be able to care for an Alzheimer’s patient in the early stages of the disease, you need to realize that the challenges will become increasingly difficult. Your loved one can present a danger to themselves by wandering off or forgetting to turn off the stove. If this is the case it may be time to consider professional memory care services like those we provide here at our Manor Lake Assisted Living and Memory Care community. For more information about memory care services here in Canton, contact us anytime.
Halloween Activities for our Assisted Living and Memory Care Loved Ones
14 October 2019
It’s a longstanding tradition at Manor Lake Assisted Living and Memory Care BridgeMill here in Canton to celebrate Halloween with both our assisted living and our memory care residents. Each year we research new and exciting ideas to smile, laugh, and share our love for our treasured residents. This year we found this article from SeniorAdvisor.com with a laundry list of ideas which we are not mulling over. We thought we’d share the same ideas we the followers of our blog in the hope that it navigates all of you to some special moments during Halloween.
Halloween Crafts for Seniors
Halloween crafts can be completed early in October so you can use them as decorations throughout the rest of the month.
- Decorate pumpkins.
One of the best traditional crafts for Halloween time is making jack-o-lanterns. If you’re not sure about handing sharp implements, you can have a pumpkin painting day or give them sharpies to draw designs on the pumpkins. - Make spooky candles.
The lacy candles recommended by Elder One Stop are easy to make, made of cheap supplies, and won’t be a fire risk (they recommend flameless). They’ll add a nice bit of atmosphere to your facility. - Make decorative spiderwebs.
You can get together to make simple and cheap spiderwebs to hang around the community out of coffee filters. Throw in a little yarn and your residents will also have the option of creating larger cobweb decorations for the space. - Make spiral ghosts.
Some white paper, a black sharpie, and scissors are all your group needs to make these spinning ghosts. You can hang them around the shared spaces of the facility. - Decorative Halloween garlands.
For one more addition to your homemade decorations, you can task any interested seniors with making decorative Halloween garlands for your hallways. Here are some ideas of bat and ghost garlands and glow-in-the-dark ones.
(Mostly) Healthy Halloween Recipes for Seniors
You can find loads of cute Halloween recipes on the web, but most of them are laden with sugar. Since many seniors have health concerns, we tried to pick out a few of the healthier options that still fit the theme.
- Shrunken Head Cider
From the twisted mind of Martha Stewart comes this shrunken head cider. You can skip the booze if you want and stick with the rest of the recipe. - Sweet potato jack-o-lanterns
Sweet potatoes are just the right mix of healthy and tasty and these jack-o-lanterns will make a fun, theme-appropriate snack that’s easy to make. - Dragon’s blood punch
Made mostly of juices (although it may still be too sugary for some), this punch is simple to make in large quantities and should make for a tasty treat. - Devilish Eggs
Adorable deviled eggs made from healthy ingredients are easy for your residents to put together and tasty for everyone to enjoy once finished. - Cheesy Witch’s Brooms
Cuter than any witch’s implement should be, these witch’s brooms made of cheese and pretzels shouldn’t be too hard to make and will be even easier to devour. (Note: scroll down for the English instructions).
Other Halloween Activities for Seniors
If you want to pack Halloween week with more fun, interactive activities that you might consider include:
- Halloween charades
Brainstorm as many different Halloween-related themes and ideas you can think of for your loved one to act out. You should all have fun watching people mime Dracula or try to figure out how to act like a spider. Here’s a list to get you started. - Share scary stories
Your cherished senior loved one probably know some good ones, but you can come equipped with a book or some stories from the internet just in case. - Homemade costume contest
Encourage your senior loved one to come up with homemade mask and costumes ideas. If you can make some materials available for them to work with, that may spark inspiration in a few of them. On Halloween, have everyone vote on which costume came out the best. - Assisted living trick-or-treat
Most seniors probably feel silly trick-or-treating around the neighborhood, but let’s be honest, most of us loved trick-or-treating and were a little sad when we got too old for it. Why not give it a try! - Classic horror movie marathon
Your loved one probably have some favorite old classic horror movies. Poll them to pick out a few of the most popular, and give them the option to come together and watch them on Halloween or in the days leading up to it.
Halloween’s not for everybody, so you’ll probably have those uninterested in participating in some of these activities, but those that enjoy the season will be happy to have the opportunity to celebrate it in a variety of ways.
All of us here at Manor Lake Assisted Living & Memory Care wish you the very best for a joyful Halloween celebration.
How to Seek Help with Assisted Living Costs
7 October 2019
Many people who are in need of assisted living services or memory care services in and around Canton put off looking for care for fear of how they will pay for it. Here at Manor Lake Assisted Living & Memory Care BridgeMill we are fully committed to providing the highest quality and most affordable assisted living services across the Canton area. We fully realize that assisted living services, for some, can be cost prohibitive. However, we are fully committed to assisting you with potential sources of financial aid so that you and or your loved ones can secure the care that you deserve.
Check the Veteran’s Aid & Attendance Program
Check eligibility for the Veteran’s Aid & Attendance Pension, a program which can provide financial help to those who require assistance with activities of daily living such as eating, bathing, dressing and undressing or taking care of the needs of nature.
It can pay up to $1,830 per month to a veteran, $1,176 per month to a surviving spouse, or $2,170 per month to a couple for veterans and surviving spouses (as of 2017). Certain income and asset limits also apply.
This program allows you to keep more assets than most state aid programs, and it provides a higher level of assistance. You cannot receive benefits from both the Veterans program and a state aid program, so you may want to evaluate both to determine which provides the highest level of assistance for you or your loved one.
Check with your state’s medicaid office
Find your state Medicaid office and check on their available resources. To qualify for Medicaid you'll need to have assets and income that are below the federal poverty levels.
Many state programs offer assistance with assisted living costs for those who have no financial resources. Qualifying for such assistance usually means you have less than $2,000 in assets, although exact program requirements can vary from state-to-state.
Find non-profit resources for assisted living and elderly care
With a little digging you may find a non-profit organization that can help. If they can't help they may direct you to additional sources of assistance. Start with these two organizations:
- Contact your local Area Agency for Aging. They can help you locate resources such as elder refugee or elder abuse programs, counseling, meals on wheels, volunteers who will visit, adult day care services, and much more.
- Visit Eldercare.gov to find help in your local community, or call them at 800.677.1116. They will help refer to local resources such as home health services, transportation resources, senior housing options, respite care, find financial assistance if you are eligible for it, and much more.
Ask for family support
One home health company has created a free personalized way to stay in touch with those who need in-home care or assisted living through a feature they call CareTogether. It functions like a customized form of Facebook designed just for a senior who needs care, allowing the family to stay updated on what their needs may be.
You could use a feature like this, or a Facebook page, to explain your or your loved one’s needs to extended family and then ask family members if they would be willing to contribute a small monthly amount to provide in-home or assisted living care for this family member.
We want you to know that we are here to help. Contact Manor Lake BridgeMill Assisted Living and Memory Care in Canton today.
Source: thebalance.com
Must-Ask Questions When Choosing an Assisted Living or Memory Care Community
30 September 2019
When it comes time to begin the most difficult task of choosing an assisted living community in Canton GA or a memory care community in Canton GA, take a deep breath and accept the fact that you are about to take on very serious responsibility. We want to help you in that endeavor by offering some guidance on how to move forward. Please know that we are here for you to help and expand upon the following advice.
At the very core of best practices to find the perfect senior living or assisted living community in Nashville is to speak with as many staff members and current residents as possible.
Questions to ask
Obviously, you can't just rely on facility tours or promotional brochures to make this crucial decision. First, get your ducks in a row. When you're ready to visit in person, turn to administrators, staff members and residents for answers to pivotal questions.
Consider Before You Visit:
Is the location realistic? Lengthy drives, not to mention flights, will affect visits and add barriers to relationships with friends and family members, including spouses still living at home.
Many families face a tough conundrum. Sometimes it's a matter of choosing between top-ranked but distant facilities versus more accessible locations for loved ones to visit regularly and monitor care.
Ask Administrators and Nursing Directors:
What are the staffing ratios? Bolster your question with research.
What is your staff turnover? Stable staffing is a good sign. In addition, consistent assignment – when the same caregivers are assigned to the same residents on a daily basis – is critically important. That way, staff members really get to know residents, anticipate their needs and can recognize and address problems early.
Which services do you offer? If you're undergoing rehab to recover from a hip fracture, you'll need a higher level of care than some nursing homes can offer. With medical conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, residents may need help managing supplemental oxygen.
Do you provide special care for people with dementia? Memory care means much more than just a locked unit to prevent residents from wandering. Staffing ratios should be no more than five residents per caregiver, including nurses and aides, around the clock. Caregivers should have special training in dementia care, and the awareness and sensitivity to best address these needs.
Ask Dietitians:
What kind of food do you serve? Residents rely entirely on nursing homes to meet their nutritional needs. Healthy, tasty food improves everyone's quality of life.
How do you satisfy cultural and individual food preferences? People in nursing homes still want to enjoy meals that evoke family traditions and tastes they've developed over their lives.
Do you accommodate special diets? Residents come in with their own dietary preferences and restrictions. Some also may have medical orders for soft or puréed diets, for example.
Can residents eat when they want? Some people prefer to eat outside routine schedules.
Ask Residents:
After the formal tour, explain that you'd like a chance to speak with several residents. Drop in at the activities room or a lounge, introduce yourself, say you're considering a move there and ask what it's like for them.
Are you happy here? "Do you enjoy living here?" "What do you like best about living here?" and "If you could change one thing, what would that be?" are positive ways to frame your questions and make residents more likely to respond.
Do you have freedom of choice? Does the facility offer resident-centered care? Are you able to get up when you want? Do you go to bed at the time you want?
When you ask for help, how long do you have to wait? If you always have to wait beyond five minutes for help, you're likely to try doing things on your own, which could set you up for falls.
Ask Activity Directors:
What about activities? How do you keep residents engaged? Ask to see monthly activity calendars. Offerings should be varied and appealing.
Does the facility have a resident or family council? These self-determined groups can provide a strong voice for quality care.
Is reliable transportation available? Sometimes nursing homes only provide transportation for certain medical appointments – and they don't provide transportation for social purposes. Is there staff to help residents get to a granddaughter's play?
Can residents easily spend time outdoors? Attractive courtyards are sometimes the first thing visitors notice. But how often can residents, particularly those with mobility issues, actually go outdoors? Does staff encourage and help them to do so?
For more information on senior living or memory care services here in Canton GA, contact Manor Lake Assisted Living and Memory Care BridgeMill anytime!
New hope for patients with Alzheimer's: How one family is fighting the disease
23 September 2019
Like his mother Virginia O'Brien before him, Greg O’Brien is battling Alzheimer’s disease with all his might.
O'Brien's mother did everything she could to stave off the disease as she cared for her cancer-stricken, wheelchair-bound husband. And she did somehow manage to keep things going until her husband, O'Brien's father, died from prostate cancer.
It was from watching his mother live with Alzheimer’s that allowed O'Brien to recognize the signs in himself and prompted him to see a neurologist at age 59. Brain scans that revealed he had Alzheimer’s, too. Shortly after his own diagnosis, both of his parents passed away.
“My mom taught me how to live with Alzheimer’s,” O’Brien of Cape Cod, Massachusetts told TODAY. “She fought and fought and fought. She wouldn’t give up. She kept telling me, ‘I can’t get sick, I can’t get sick.’”
Now nearly 70, he's still not giving up.
“It’s not for me, it’s for the next generation,” O’Brien said of his daily fight against the disease, choking up. “It’s for my kids, my granddaughter. We've got to stop this demon.”
Currently, the Alzheimer’s Association estimates that there are 5.8 million Americans living with the disease and that the number will rise to 14 million by 2050.
As O’Brien waits for medical breakthroughs that might stop the mind-robbing disease, he’s made lifestyle changes that recent research suggests might at least slow Alzheimer’s down. He follows a Mediterranean diet and makes sure he gets enough sleep. He exercises regularly and writes every day to “reboot my brain.”
Conor and Greg look through family photos.Alexandra Galante/TODAY
Conor and Greg look through family photos.Conor and Greg look through family photos.Alexandra Galante/TODAY
Can Alzheimer's be slowed?
To help make daily life run better, O’Brien, a journalist and writer for 45 years, leans on habits he honed in his profession. With short term memory frayed by the disease, “I write everything down,” O’Brien said. He started doing that because, “I worried I would forget.”
Greg O'Brien was the caregiver for his mother, Virginia, while she had Alzheimer's.Alexandra Galante/TODAY
Greg O'Brien was the caregiver for his mother, Virginia, while she had Alzheimer's.Greg O'Brien was the caregiver for his mother, Virginia, while she had Alzheimer's.Alexandra Galante/TODAY
O’Brien tries to stay mentally engaged and hopes that his years as a writer will help him in his battle against Alzheimer's progression. The idea is simple, using your brain builds and maintains connections, kind of like putting money in the bank that you can depend on later.
“Doctors tell me I’m working off what they call cognitive reserve, as my mother did,” O’Brien said.
While Alzheimer's runs in O'Brien's family, so does caregiving. Just as Virginia O'Brien cared for her husband, O'Brien's 30-year-old son, Conor, is his father’s caregiver. After graduating from college, the young man moved home to help his dad.
“I’ve always enjoyed spending time with him," Conor O'Brien said. "You just find a way every day to take it step by step.”
Conor says he doesn’t really see the progression in his father, but there are times that it really hits home. The day his dad didn’t recognize him “was the scariest moment of my life.”
O'Brien calls Conor his “rudder” because he steers him every day.
“We've got to bring this out of the closet so people can understand there are people still working who are scared [expletive] and are afraid to talk about it because they’ll lose their jobs,” he said. “We have to try to enable people to speak about the strategies, the medicines, the supplements.”
Still, O’Brien has had to accept limitations the disease has placed on his life. Two years ago he gave up driving.
“I have this ‘Where’s Waldo’ app that tells people where I am at all times,” he said.
Greg calls his office his "memory room." Writing isn't easy for Greg, whose short term memory disappears after 30 seconds.
But making a record helps him to remember some things.Alexandra Galante/TODAY
Greg calls his office his "memory room." Writing isn't easy for Greg, whose short term memory disappears after 30 seconds. But making a record helps him to remember some things.Greg calls his office his "memory room." Writing isn't easy for Greg, whose short term memory disappears after 30 seconds. But making a record helps him to remember some things.Alexandra Galante/TODAY There are certainly hints from research that exercise may not only slow cognitive decline, but also modify the amount of the sticky amyloid protein that accumulates in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s, said Maria Carrillo, chief science officer at the Alzheimer’s Association. Those studies were done in patients with Alzheimer’s tied to a dominantly inherited gene.
“We don’t know yet if you can expand that to people with late onset disease,” Carrillo said.
And there is evidence from animal models of Alzheimer’s suggesting the disease course is modifiable and that living in an enriched environment can slow the progress of the disease, Carrillo said. O’Brien takes a lot of his cues from Massachusetts General neurologist Rudy Tanzi, an Alzheimer’s researcher who is looking to cure the disease. In the meantime, Tanzi has suggestions for slowing its progression — his program, called SHIELD.
Each letter of the acronym stands for a lifestyle modification that might impact the development of Alzheimer’s.
'S' stands for sleep.
“It’s during deep sleep that you clean your brain of debris. Seven to eight hours of sleep a night is essential,” said Tanzi.
For physical exercise, Greg likes to play golf. He also goes for a run every day.Alexandra Galante/TODAY
‘H’ stands for handing stress.
‘I’ is for interacting with friends.
‘E’ is for exercise.
‘L’ is for learning new things.
Learning new things can help you make new synapses, Tanzi said. “The bottom line is in Alzheimer’s, the degree of dementia correlates most with the loss of synapses."
‘D’ is for diet.
Recent studies point to the brain benefits of a diet rich in leafy green vegetables, beans, olive oil, nuts and poultry. It's recommended to avoid red meat, sweets and fried foods.
While O’Brien and his family acutely feel what he’s lost to the disease, they do see a silver lining.
“Alzheimer’s has kind of actually brought our family a little closer,” said Conor. “I would say that’s kind of a blessing in disguise.”
“I can’t step in my dad’s shoes and feel how he’s feeling,” Conor said. “I just look at him and he’s my hero.”
Source: Today.com
Music Revives Memories in Dementia Patients
23 September 2019
Modern researchers have discovered that music soothes those suffering from dementia, and/or Alzheimer’s disease.
Researchers at The University of Utah Health recently tested whether they could alleviate anxiety in seniors suffering from dementia by playing familiar music to them using headphones and a hand-held music device. Anxiety and agitation are two of the most disruptive aspects of living with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease for both patients and caregivers.
After the researchers helped the patients pick meaningful music, they used a functional MRI to record the changes in the brain while the music played. The brain images showed that music helped the areas of the brain known as the salience network, the visual network, the executive network, and the cerebellar and corticocerebellar networks all work with better connectivity. These areas of the brain activate language and memory, according to the study’s authors.
“When you put headphones on dementia patients and play familiar music, they come alive,” Jace King, lead author of the study, said in a press release. “Music is like an anchor grounding the patient back in reality.”
Music and movement are the last things to go in the brain.
It’s almost miraculous what music can do for Alzheimer’s patients and the research about the benefits is there.
Patients Respond
Health care providers have seen firsthand how much music helps dementia patients. with the clients there.
Play songs from their era that they might recognize. Patriotic songs are also popular.
Music touches people on so many levels.
The reaction by dementia patients to music was also dramatically demonstrated in the 2014 documentary, Alive Inside. Elderly care professionals can set up personalized playlists on iPods for their patients. The music helps the patients access the deep memories not lost to dementia. It also helps them converse and socialize in ways they weren’t doing before the familiar music became a part of their daily life.
For more information on senior assisted living and memory care services in Canton, contact Manor Lake Assisted Living and Memory Care BridgeMill.
capecodhealth.org
Professional Assisted Living Lowers Resident Heart Disease
16 September 2019
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, seniors supported by professional assisted living professionals realize a statistically significant decrease in hospitalization for heart disease. This positive report is attributed to the professional support provided by assisted living communities such as ours at Manor Lake Assisted Living and Memory Care (Canton, GA) that deliver quality of life support programs as well as regular and reassuring professional health consultation.
What We Do?
The following items are primary goals of assisted living communities in an effort to reduce the rate of senior patients developing heart illnesses.
Provide Fitness and Relaxation
Keeping seniors active and relaxed improves heart health. Workout programs that range from low to moderate impact exercises are managed based on fitness levels and health status. Regular exercise helps lower stress levels and improve quality of sleep. When these two vital factors are achieved and stabilized, a healthier heart is guaranteed.
Promote Nutrition and Healthy Diet
Assisted living communities pay close attention to the nutrition and diet of their senior residents. They make sure that the food served to senior residents are both appetizing and healthy to improve food intake and facilitates consumption of important nutrients that can strengthen the heart. Also, taking note of food that must be taken moderately. Low-salt, low-fat, low-sugar diet are usually the dietary recommendation for these people.
Provide Smoke-Free Environment
We know for a fact that a smoker has a higher risk of developing chronic heart disorders including atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease. Manor Lake Assisted Living and Memory Care in Canton offers a designated outdoor area for smokers separated from non-smokers so that non-smokers will not be exposed to smoke-filled air. This is also a way to encourage current smokers to break the habit. Medical advises are also given to those smokers to support them to give up smoking.
For more information about assisted living, contact Manor Lake Assisted Living and Memory Care in Canton.
About the Guilt Associated with Seeking Professional Memory Care Services
9 September 2019
Caring for your loved one with memory issues is an exhaustive yet fulfilling labor of love. Without doubt it is very stressful as well. At some point this labor of love becomes an unhealthy tax on both the mental and physical state of the caregiver(s). It is at this point where guilt sets in when we recognize our inability to keep pace with the ever-increasing challenge of providing memory care support services. This guilt is natural but fortunately it is usually short-lived once we come to accept the realities of life that, at some point, we must turn to memory care professionals to help us carry the load.
The key word there is “professionals”. We are programmed to believe that no one outside the family can provide the same level of loving care that a family member can. But that is simply not true. When you enlist the support of senior memory care professionals in and around Canton you are empowering you and your family with the power of scientific research and professional expertise that will enhance the quality of life of your loved one in ways that the non-professional family simply cannot. No offense of course.
So, take the step to research your transition to professional memory care with confidence (not guilt) that you are about to increase the quality of life of both your loved one AND yourself. Conduct thorough research of the memory care communities near you to experience the campus, assess the skill and attentive nature of the staff, and to simply get a feel for the memory care community as a whole. Trust your instinct, it will guide you well.
If you think it's time to move your parent or loved one to a memory care facility, contact the memory care professionals at Manor Lake BridgeMill in Canton, GA. Our team is available to help guide you through this difficult process and answer any questions that may arise.
Aromatherapy For The Mental Health of Patients With Alzheimer's and Dementia
30 August 2019
It is proven that scent has connection to memory. Aromatherapy is now mainstream within memory care centers. The therapeutic effects of aromatherapy offers positive quality of life effects upon people with Alzheimer's or Dementia.
Essential oils are naturally extracted from plants. You can gain the therapeutic effects of these plants through aeration, topical application, and diet. Essential oil offers positive impact on the general health and mental wellness. For Alzheimer's and dementia patients, several studies have shown to help minimize related symptoms of the disease.
Aromatherapy also provides relaxation and aid patients to sleep better. Relaxation and quality sleep helps improve mental health and functioning. Sandalwood, Lavender, Jasmine and Marjoram are herbs that help improve sleep.
For more information about aromatherapy for seniors and other senior care tips, contact Manor Lake BridgeMill
How to Start the Conversation About Transitioning to Assisted Living
22 August 2019
For most seniors, the notion of losing independence is something extremely difficult to admit. The thought of the need to move into an assisted living community is unsettling at best. Putting off the conversation between a senior and his/her caregiver(s) will only exacerbate the fear and anxiety for all parties. With a little research, planning, and yes a LOT of love, you will ensure a positive outcome.
- Talk to your parent(s) about assisted living options in Canton as early as possible—before the situation becomes urgent. That way you can spend more time exploring different solutions, and your parent will be able to more fully participate in the process.
- Know the options and the benefits of each one. Moving into an Assisted Living Community like Manor Lake BridgeMill is just one option, but there are many others. Depending on the level of independence and care your parent desires and needs, there may be home care solutions or other solutions that might be a good fit. Learn more about the various options.
- Address your concerns about their current situation openly and completely. Be realistic – and help them be as well – about their health care needs and safety and the potential needs they may have in the near future. Be candid about the impact their care may be having on you and emphasize your overwhelming concern for their well-being. Now is not the time to dance around delicate topics. Being honest and upfront is the best approach, but make sure you do it with a tone of empathy and respect.
- Listen carefully to their fears and objections. It’s best to have an initial conversation to get the ball rolling, then take a few days to digest their initial reaction and comments before continuing. This also shows them that they are being heard and honored and will have a role in the process.
- Find out what’s most important to them. Perhaps they are concerned about leaving their friends behind or being forced into a routine that they don’t like. Understanding these issues can help you address them upfront and find a solution that will provide them with the care they need along with the lifestyle they want to be happy and fulfilled.
- Be prepared to talk about finances. Part of the fear of losing independence is the concern about losing control of their finances. Have a realistic assessment of their financial situation, along with ballpark costs, and financial benefits they may be able to utilize ready to discuss. Consider the potential “what if” scenarios that may arise, and how they may each impact your long-term financial situation.
- Take a positive approach and tone. Your parent will be more likely to embrace change if it’s presented in the most positive and caring light. Humor can help lighten the situation, but it’s important not to let the conversation become too lighthearted or trite. After all, this is one of the most important decisions of their life, and the decision that you make together will make all the difference in the quality of their remaining years
For more information about our assisted living services in Canton, contact Manor Lake.
Tips for Visiting Assisted Living Parents During Summer Vacation
20 August 2019
When returning home to Hiram to visit your aging parents at Manor Lake Assisted Living and Memory Care BridgeMill, give your visit some thought in advance. You are not alone if you find that your visits can be stressful for a host of reasons, not the least of which is witnessing our parents in a state of physical and/or mental decline. In some cases, this decline can be as simple as realizing that you need to devote regular efforts to help a loved one manage daily life; in others, we might face the grief of knowing, or fearing, that this may be one of the last holidays together.
Because remote family members visit so often during the summer vacations and holidays, we often receive requests at this time of year to help assess whether someone is still safe, and to identify the kinds of help available and what might be needed. We also notice enormous stress in uncertain adult children hoping to do the right thing with their parents while navigating uncharted waters. We find that it helps to use these vacation visit guidelines, from how to manage taking a dependent elder a short trip away from home to considering whether a senior can continue to live alone, safely and unaided.
1. Treasure and be present with the person before you
First, it is always good to stop and remember those things that cannot be changed: aging, the effects of some illnesses, the progress of dementia, and other factors. “Old age,” as Betty Davis said, “is not for sissies.” Sometimes we see families whose holidays would improve if they paused briefly to realize that a parent will never again have the health and energy of past times. However, treasured memories can still be created with person before you. Honor that person; try to make him or her comfortable; ask to hear a story, or tell one yourself. Even in advanced stages of illness, holiday experiences can be joyous if accepted for what they are. It is good advice for life in general, and especially with aging loved ones.
2. Assign someone the task to be sure your elder is not over-stimulated
Especially for elders who are not used to being active, and have their own hopes for a vacation experience “like old times”, the temptation to try to keep too fast a pace during a holiday can lead to exhaustion. Be sure that every day someone is prepared to stay at home, or leave an event early; your elder will be happier not trying to keep up with the most energetic members of the family. Try to rotate this responsibility so no one misses too much. It can be an adult child, a younger family member, family friend, or regular caregiver. This is simple, but easy to forget.
3. If the elder is traveling, plan extra time
Whether it is security scans at airports or long car rides, the pace and distractions that many of us take in stride as part of travel can be exhausting, confusing, or frightening for elders. If you are in a rush, the problem is exacerbated. Plan ahead, allow for a slow pace and leisurely pace, and explain what is going on. This can relieve pressure on everyone.
4. If you visit home, be on the lookout for signs that help may be needed
People who visit home after an absence of several months sometimes can see the signs of decline in the condition of the home or the elder. It is important to be on the lookout for these, especially if family is not regularly present. Signs include a poorly- stocked kitchen, plumbing or appliances that do not function and have not been repaired, clutter that may be the initial stages of hoarding, or poor hygiene. Rarely to our elders call and say, “I cannot manage alone and I need help to continue living here.” Far more often, the signs appear without a request for help. If you have concerns about whether someone is safe at home, an assessment by a geriatric care manager or local senior citizens’ service center is called for.
Vacations with aging parents can be bittersweet. But with proper planning and the right attitude, the emphasis can be on the sweet. Do not try to do too much; find ways to enjoy the person as he or she is today, and to help him or her enjoy the day as much as possible. Grieve if it is called for, laugh when you can, ask for help when you need it. It is all part of life.
For information on assisted living or memory care services here in Canton in Nashville, contact Manor Lake BridgeMill anytime.
Source: Connected Home Care
Preparing Senior Assisted Living Residents For Autumn
19 August 2019
Although the climate is still extremely hot here in Canton, fall is really not that far away. Preparing for seasonal climate change is crucial to our senior residents. Here at our Canton Georgia senior assisted living community we take proactive measures to guarantee our resident’s comfort and safety. Since senior citizens are more prone to slip and during the fall season, we share with you here what we do (and all others who care for a senior should strongly consider) to protect our residents:
1. Clear Away Fall Leaves
We make sure to clean up the yard on daily basis. Fall leaves filling the ground could heighten the risk for trip or slip hazards especially when they get wet. We also make sure that leaves don't clogged up the gutters to protect their units.
2. Be Extra Cautious on those Fall Rainy Days
Wet surfaces and puddles can be hazardous especially for older people for they already have impaired balance. Others may have a poor vision that makes the situation worse. We make sure to provide extra assistance when going outdoors or more preferably, just re-schedule outings when the weather is unfavorable.
3. Flu Season Preparation
Elderly people are more susceptible of getting flu and having it can trigger even more severe complications. To combat influenza, we provide flu shots, hand sanitizers and encourage them to frequently perform hand washing to prevent spread of disease. As much as possible, we isolate them from those who are infected with flu.
4. HVAC Inspection and Cleaning
Cold temperature is crucial for senior adults to deal with. Thus, we make sure that our heating units are serviced and filters are replaced so that heating services are in perfect condition and not subject to breakdown.
For more senior care tips, contact Manor Lake BridgeMill.
How to Find the Best Senior Living Community for Your Loved One
16 August 2019
Transitioning a loved one to a senior living community is a most difficult decision. How in the world do you go about selecting the best option for your loved one? Very simply, finding the right assisted living community takes time and research. Below are some questions to ask when visiting a senior living community to help you make an informed decision:
What type of daily activities and events are planned?
Speak to the Activities Director to learn more about their approach to mental stimulation and social interaction, as both are important factors in sustaining positive mental health. Ask for a copy of the monthly calendar to see what types of activities are offered on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. In addition, ask about their community amenities and what makes this senior living community different from all the others.
How do you make residents and loved ones feel welcome?
Look closely at the community and people as you tour. Do the residents and team members look happy? Do they smile and say hello? It’s important to be observant and take the time to talk to residents and team members about their experience at the community.
Is your community up-to-date on annual inspections?
Check that the community has a valid license, history of state inspections and website information – including how often it’s updated. In the United States, individual care communities are licensed through the state’s department of health. The department of health can provide background information as well as any violations and/or complaints.
Are there financial benefits that my loved one is qualified for at your community?
If you have never considered long-term senior care before, seeing the price may instantly shock you. According to Forbes, the median annual cost of long-term senior living care was $45,000 in 2017. However, there are many financial benefits for which your loved one may qualify. For example, veterans are eligible for the Veterans Aid and Attendance Pension Benefit and many seniors qualify for Medicare. It is important to research to see if you or a loved one qualifies for any financial resources.
We believe it’s how you live that matters, and in the end, it’s about the care, the teamwork of the staff, and the overall happiness of residents in senior living communities that matter. For more information, contact Manor Lake BridgeMill.
#HowYouLive
Tips for Finding the Best Senior Living Care Near You
31 July 2019
As we age, there will come a time when we no longer can handle all our daily tasks without senior care. When this time comes, the best move is to start considering different senior living communities to find a new place to call home.This is not an easy decision as there aren’t many people who look forward to leaving their home.
The happiness of you or your loved one is very important. Most seniors are at least a little resistant to leaving home to move to a senior-assisted living community, skilled nursing facility, or nursing home. But when you spend some time finding the best fit this transition will be less stressful and your long-term happiness is much more likely.
Figure Out What Level Of Service You Need
When considering senior living facilities, you’ll first need to determine exactly what services and support you require. Write down anything you need help with right now. No matter how small and insignificant it may be, everything is important. Then, think about what you may need help with in the future. Although you may not need help with some daily tasks today, you may really need that help in the next few years.
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, about 70 percent of individuals over 65 years of age need some form of long-term care.Once you have this list written down, you should start looking at the different forms of senior living facilities to find which one best matches your needs. Here’s a short summary of the most common types of senior living facilities:
Independent Senior Living Facilities
These homes remove the burden of owning your own home so that you can focus on your interests and your health, both emotionally and physically. They also offer plenty of opportunities to make new friends.
If, after looking over your list, you determine that your overall health is just fine and there’s no need for help with the normal daily tasks, one of these places could be a great fit.
Assisted Senior Living Facilities
By assisting you with daily tasks, home maintenance, and transportation, these communities allow you continue living independently, but with a little more help. If you’re having trouble managing your medications, dealing with mobility issues, struggling to get dressed or worry about getting in and out of the bath, you should consider an assisted living facility.
Skilled Nursing Care (Nursing Home Facilities)
These places can provide continuous skilled nursing care for those with complex health issues or those recovering from an injury or surgery. If your health issues are becoming more complex or your needs require full-time care, these facilities may offer the best choice for you.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities Or “CCRCs” (Life Plan Communities)
CCRCs are a fairly new idea, but they offer a great option for many seniors. Residents at these senior living facilities benefit from a full continuum of care including memory care, skilled nursing, independent living services and assisted living services.
By providing all of these options in the same community, they allow seniors to enjoy their independence now, but still have access to levels of care they may need in the future.
Make Safety A Priority
Whether you’re looking at care options for yourself or a loved one, safety should always be a priority. This means security from the world outside the facility and from internal concerns. There is really no price tag on the preservation of well-being, especially when it comes to old age.Here are a few ways to help you find a safe senior living facility:
Take A Look at State Records
While they may make a place look great, clean common areas and green gardens do not reflect the safety of the facility. Mistreatment and wrongdoing typically happens when no one is looking for the best way to check for these issues are by looking at state records.
Records of reprimands, offenses, and crimes among senior living facilities can be found at state offices that focus on senior care. These records can give you a “background check” as you search for the right place for you.
Talk to The Staff and Current Residents
During a visit to one of these senior living facilities, you should take the opportunity to talk with staff members and current residents about what it is like there. They may be more willing to open up about their experiences than you would think. Even if you’re nervous to ask the residents, it is important to know if they feel completely safe and comfortable. You need to take all actions possible to uncover issues before you commit to a place and learn the hard way.
Get A Breakdown of Security Policies and Features
You can find out about a facility’s security features by asking the administrator or director. While you speak with this leader of the facility, you can also ask them about resident complaints and hiring policies. If you or your loved one has special medical needs, you should also make sure they will receive regular, highly-skilled care to address these needs as a safety precaution.
Costs And Income
Although senior living homes can be expensive, most people are surprised at how affordable it can be when compared to the costs of owning a home. Either way, it is important to crunch some numbers before you get too far along in the process of finding a new home.Take a look at how much it costs you (or your loved one) to live in your own home.
Even if the mortgage has already been paid-off, the list of expenses can be quite long. From utilities, taxes, groceries, and entertainment to continuous home maintenance and age-related renovations, the costs can add up quickly. If you have any current medical costs or expenses associated with home health care, those should also be included in your calculations.
After that, consider your financial resources. Include your assets and income sources like surviving spouse benefits, veteran’s benefits, retirement investments, pensions and long-term care insurance. You can then combine all of this information by adding up financial resources and expenses that will no longer occur to create a budget.
Then you’ll know what you can afford when it comes to senior living facilities.If the numbers still aren’t adding up, you can look into federal aid programs like Supportive Housing for the Elderly, Low-Income Housing credits and other government-provided options.
Tour The Facility
After all of this research, you’ve already got a big head start on finding the best senior living facilities near you. However, you should never make a big decision like this one based solely on Internet research. The only way to truly understand which facility will be best for you is to take a tour.
Start by calling each facility on your shortened list. They should be accustomed to helping people set up tours of the facilities. Once you arrive, make sure that you walk the whole facility including the resident’s rooms. And as we mentioned earlier, don’t be afraid to talk to some of the current residents and staff members to hear their opinion.
You would never want to buy a house without doing a walk-through first, so you shouldn’t commit to a senior living facility before a tour either. You need to be completely confident that the facility will be a comfortable place that will support the overall happiness of you or your loved one.
So you’ve done all the research, taken tours, and asked for professional help. Are you still struggling to find the best senior living facility for you? The truth is you could spend the rest of your days stressing over this decision, but, at the end of the day, your gut feeling should help you make the final commitment.
Don’t be swayed by shiny marketing strategies and sales pitches. Trust all of the work you’ve done and don’t ignore your instincts.
For more information contact Manor Lake BridgeMill.
#HOWYOULIVE
Source: aging.com
How “Memory Care” Differs from Assisted Living
18 July 2019
There exist some commonality between the services provided within a senior living community versus those services provided within a memory care community. Because we provide both services, we can expertly consult you on the differences between the two. We offer this blog post to those of you who may be wondering when it might be time to graduate your loved one out of assisted living and into a certified memory care community.
Physical Differences Between Memory Care and Assisted Living
Memory care is typically architecturally designed to meet the specific needs of Alzheimer’s patients. Unlike some assisted living facilities, memory care units do not have individual kitchens for their residents. This is to keep the stress of those with dementia at a minimum.
While some assisted living facilities do have secure areas to accommodate those with mild dementia, memory care units put an extra emphasis on security to prevent patients from wandering, which is common in those with more advanced dementia. Many locations offer a secure outside area, so that patients can still enjoy being outdoors, while being unable to leave the property.
Since individuals with dementia may easily become stressed and confused, a special emphasis on creating a relaxing environment is common in memory care units. This may be done by creating a place where residents can gather, such as a television room, painting the halls with bright, colorful paint, and featuring a lot of natural light.
Another common manifestation of Alzheimer’s disease is a lack of appetite, so some facilities may have a fish tank displayed in the dining room. This is because studies have found that something as simple as watching fish swim can stimulate one’s appetite.
Other Differences
Generally, safety checks are done more frequently in memory care units, and some residences even utilize tracking bracelets that will sound an alarm if a resident goes too near an exit. Memory care units also tend to follow a more rigid scheduling structure, since those with dementia can easily become stressed in unfamiliar environments and generally do better with routine.
It’s common for those with Alzheimer’s to have a lack of appetite, so memory care units put forth considerable effort to design meals to address this issue. This may be done by creating a contrast between the color of the food and the plate on which it is served so that residents can easily see their food or by offering flexibility with dishes.
Extra safety measures are also taken on memory care units to ensure the safety of their residents. Examples include locking up items that are poisonous, such as shampoo, laundry detergent, and mouthwash containing alcohol.
Skills / Training of Staff
In assisted living, staff is trained to assist patients with their activities of daily living, such as helping an individual to bathe and offering help with changing clothes. In memory care units, staff is also trained to assist with activities of daily living, as well as trained to handle the specific needs of those with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. This training includes understanding how the disease manifests, knowing why dementia patients may exhibit disruptive behavior, how to respond to it, and how to communicate with individuals with dementia.
Staff to Patient Ratio
For assisted living facilities, there currently is no nationally set guideline as far as what is an appropriate staff to patient ratio. This is left up to individual communities to determine the “sufficient” ratio to best meet the needs of their program and residents. (This may be governed by the state in which one resides). That being said, memory care units do require a higher staff to patient ratio in order to adequately provide the care needed for persons with dementia. An ideal staff to resident ratio is 1 staff member to 5 residents, but again, the staff to patient ratio is not nationally governed, and 1 staff member to 6 residents is commonly seen. It is worth noting that even in well-run, properly staffed memory care units, the needs of an individual resident may exceed what the staff can offer. In these situations, the family may be asked to pay for several hours of outside care assistance each day.
Total Number of Residents
Assisted living communities offer a number of options as far as size. There are small communities, medium communities, large communities, and even communities that house over 100 people. As with the size of assisted living communities, memory care units also range in size from small to large. The number of residents has little impact on cost. Some persons with dementia will feel more comfortable with a greater number of fellow residents and others with fewer. Families should choose accordingly.
For more information, contact Manor Lake BridgeMill.
Source: dementiacarecentral.com
Questions to Ask Memory Care Community Providers
11 July 2019
We’re going to help you out here by defining ten questions you should ask us when visiting our Manor Lake Memory Care Community here in Canton . Of course you should ask these ten questions (and the host of your own personal questions) to any professional care facility that you might trust to take care of your loved ones. We win when you ask the hard questions that lesser professional memory care communities have trouble answering. Here are ten questions that, when answered to your satisfaction, should give you great confidence in that care community:
- How is the memory care center secured? This question relates not only about how the community protects from intrusion but also how the community guarantees resident safety against exiting the facility. Protecting the residents against very common “exit-seeking behavior” of the memory care patient is a critical challenge to each and every memory care community. Quality care communities will have their entrances access controlled 24/7 and reserve elevators for staff and visitors. In some communities residents wears a bracelet with an electronic sensor. Additionally a resident can have a personal security alarm on his or her bed and/or wheelchair. A personal security alarm can alert a staff member in case a patient tries to stand up without remembering that they require assistance.
- When do residents get exercise and fresh air? Memory care communities need to guard against exiting, but residents need a secure outdoor area for fresh air and recreation. Circular paths for walking, both inside and outdoors are common features of the best memory care communities.
- Does the community have structured daily activities? Structured activities led by skilled providers and therapists can greatly improve a person’s quality of life. The best communities offer a full programming calendar. For example, residents might get art therapy, bake bread and cookies, sing, and visit with a therapy dog. The facilitated activities are designed to help keep residents’ minds active and lessen symptoms of decline. This sort of memory care might also help slow the progression of dementia.
- Are psychiatric and psychological services provided? Many memory care communities have staff or visiting specialists to help with residents’ psychological needs on a one-on-one basis. These caregivers can provide therapy and help patients establish or adjust a medication regimen as their disease changes.
- Do physicians and other medical specialists visit the community? Such visits can make life easier by eliminating the patient’s need for transportation to a clinic.
- What training do the caregivers receive? Ideally a registered nurse will be on duty 24 hours/day as residents could have medical emergencies at any time. Ask for the hours of skilled nursing, and also ask about the training that personal caregivers receive. What are the criteria for getting hired? How are staff trained once hired?
- What is the ratio of staff to residents? Memory care costs more than standard nursing home care partly because a higher ratio of staff to residents is needed for safety and comfort. Ask for the staffing ratios for daytime and night.
- Does each resident have a customized care plan? Alzheimer’s and related diseases develop differently for everyone, so the best care for dementia patients is highly personalized. It’s also good to ask whether residents are grouped by cognitive level.
- What is the discharge policy? Residents of a senior facility, like residents of any mainstream apartment complex, can be evicted. This might happen if the resident becomes physically aggressive or otherwise disrupts the community. With memory care patients, disruptive behaviors are more likely regardless of the residents’ temperaments when they were more “themselves.” Be sure to ask how the staff is trained to respond in case your loved one or another resident exhibits disruptive behaviors, and get a full understanding of the center’s policies for discharge.
- What type of care is the community unable to provide? Understanding the criteria for involuntary discharge can help you understand what sort of care they cannot provide. Also be sure to understand whether they’ll be able to continue caring for your loved one if he or she becomes bedridden or needs to use a wheelchair. You might also want your loved one to live at a facility that uses sight, sound, and other senses for memory therapy. Some patients would also benefits from Parkinson’s therapy and other specific care options.
For more information on memory care, contact Manor Lake BridgeMill.
Choosing a Professional Alzheimer’s Care Community
30 June 2019
Sadly, professional Alzheimer’s care often becomes the best option for a loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s. It may seem like a tremendously difficult decision, but ultimately it can be the most compassionate option when your loved one requires constant attention and it overwhelms your ability to manage the entirety of your loved one’s care needs. Rest assured that the Manor Lake Alzheimer’s Care Community is well-equipped, staffed, trained, and uniquely qualified to care for our residents with dignity and respect. Choose your memory care community where you can pay visits regularly. An Alzheimer’s care community must provide an atmosphere that helps your loved one’s condition. Therefore, making the right choice is critical.
Know the difference between a nursing care community and Alzheimer’s residential care communities. Alzheimer’s care communities will cater to the condition of your loved one and their stage of disease. Nursing communities do not specialize in what you seek. A residential memory care community provides personal care assistance that includes washing and dressing along with food preparation. The caretakers are specially trained to care for people with Alzheimer’s.
Before you finalize selecting an Alzheimer’s care community, it’s a good idea to pay a visit to each and every community that you are considering. Take note of the ambiance, the hygiene of the residents, the manner of the care takers, and just the overall look and feel of the community. The primary areas of concern in a professional care community are the rooms, the bathrooms, the care givers, the food, and the ease of access to medical facilities.
When you visit, watch the residents and gauge for yourself how well the residents are treated along with the quality of the facility and staff. The most important aspect is to check that the staff is respectful and attentive towards all residents. Alzheimer’s residents must be treated with dignity and respect at all times.
Moving into a professional care community can be very stressful for both your loved one and the entire family. When you make this decision, we’ll help you make sure that your loved one transitions as easily as possible.
For more information on memory care, contact Manor Lake BridgeMill.
Source Hive Health Media
Benefits of Meditation To Our Elderly
23 June 2019
Meditation is a practice wherein an individual tries to reconnect with their spiritual self. Once there, they can achieve tremendous joy. For this reason, meditation is recommended to elderly people for they can gain multitude of benefits from daily practice.
Through meditation, elderly people can experience natural pain relief. Since our thoughts and emotions are reactions to pain, mastering it can help detach emotion from the actual discomfort. We are more likely to control the pain when we acknowledge and accept its presence. Meditation changes our perception to pain and thus, help us cope with it effectively. Moreover, mediation aids in stress reduction as it relieves tensions in the body while promoting normal blood circulation. Stress can worsen pain so countering stress can help alleviate discomfort.
Meditation can address a variety of ailments commonly experienced by elderly people. Insomnia, stress, depression and anxiety are just few conditions that promotes illnesses. Meditation can ward off these maladies without any side effects unlike commercial medications provide. Also, meditation can boost elder's immune system so they won't easily be afflicted by diseases present within their surroundings.
For more senior care tips, contact Manor Lake BridgeMill.
Benchmarks For Effective Memory Care Services
16 June 2019
The environment that memory care patients reside makes all the difference to both the patient and their family. Many dementia care specialists suggest that seniors suffering from Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia do better in very particular types of settings. When grading prospective memory care communities, look for the following characteristics common amongst the best:
- A senior community that encourage socializing but also provides privacy as necessary.
- A place that allows personalizing of units or living spaces. You can mimic the decorations and arrangement from her old house so the senior resident would feel at home to her new living space.
- Floor plan design with square-shaped corridors rather than straight hallways. A study in several group living facilities reveals dementia patients have experience greater spatial orientation in facilities with aforementioned floor plan layout.
- Spaces that are convenient to navigate with visible signs that can guide them locate what they need.
- Has exit diversions or door disguise which provides additional security to avoid patient wandering while providing a homey atmosphere. This also provides relief to AD patients who gets frustrated and anxious when they see a door they cannot access.
- High contrast flooring can appear uneven to seniors because of their impaired vision. This can cause agitation and unsteadiness which increases their risk for falls and injury. Thus, consider the place with low-contrast flooring.
- Uses adjustable lighting. Providing white light and blue light has a good effect for those with AD. These two lighting methods are noted to improve nighttime sleep.
An environment that offers the above items can help minimize aggression and anxiety to dementia patients. For more information about Alzheimer's and dementia care, contact Manor Lake BridgeMill.
Ways To Keep Seniors Safe and Cool During Hot Weather
7 June 2019
The hot summer weather poses many threats to the elderly. Heatstroke and dehydration are two serious conditions that can inflict them during this season. Due to aging, they often do not adjust well to the steady increase in temperature. They become more vulnerable to heat as their ability to regulate body temperature slowly declines with time. We take great pride and special care at our Canton GA assisted living community, GA to guarantee the comfort and safety of our residents.
Here are ways to keep our vulnerable seniors comfortable and cool in summer:
- Encourage seniors to take plenty of water throughout the day
- We serve cool treats such as popsicles and frozen fruits
- Serve them light cold meals like salads and pasta
- When they feel hot, we provide cool washcloths on the back of the neck and a pan of cool water at hand to re-cool the towel. Also, a pan of cool water for the feet.
- We keep their units, activity areas, and dining room cool by utilizing shades and solar curtains
- Encourage all to dress for the weather to include lightweight and light-colored clothes
- We encourage all to take a cool showers or bathes
- And of course, the entire senior living community facility is fully air-conditioned to keep indoor ambience cool an comfy for our senior residents.
For more information about caring for seniors, contact Manor Lake BridgeMill.
Questions To Ask About Assisted Living
30 May 2019
When touring an assisted living center, you’ll be on the lookout for standards of cleanliness and personal interaction. Eating a meal at the facility can be a great way to start gaining an insider’s view — so if possible, arrange an interview over lunch or dinner at the facility. It’s also helpful to observe a class or facilitated social activity. Here are some suggested questions.
Questions Related to the Home / Facility
- How many people live at the home? What is the ratio of caregivers to residents?
- Does the facility feel home-like? Do you like the décor?
- What are the apartment and room choices? Do you have a full apartment with kitchen?
- Do you have a private bath? Will you share an apartment?
- Does the residence have its own dog or cat? Can residents bring their own pets? What are the restrictions with pets?
- Can residents bring their own furniture and decor? What furnishings are provided?
- Is there a separate thermostat in your room? Is there plenty of natural lighting?
- What is the view like? Is there enough closet and storage space? Are kitchen cabinets easy to reach?
Questions Related to the People
- Talk to the residents and staff? Does the staff seem to genuinely care?
- Would you enjoy sharing meals with the residents? Do you share common interests?
- Are the residents somewhat independent? Is there social activity in the common areas?
- Do the residents seem happy?
Questions Related to the Safety
- Is staff there around the clock? Are all entrances and exits secured?
- Is there a fire sprinkler system? Smoke detectors? Emergency call system in the rooms?
- Are registered nurses on staff? What are their hours? If an RN isn’t on duty 24/7, it’s important to know the center’s protocol in case of nighttime emergencies.
- Are the halls and grounds well lit? Are there handrails in the hallways?
- Are the hallways and doorways wide sufficient for walkers and wheelchairs? Are there walk-in showers?
Questions Related to the Amenities
- Is there a monthly events calendar posted? Are the spiritual services on-site?
- Does the facility have a space for outdoor recreation? If so, make sure that the area looks inviting but is guarded against trespassers.
- Are there transportation schedules for errands and medical appointments?
- What social activities, classes and field trips are facilitated by the staff?
- Crafts room? Computers and printers? Massage therapy? Swimming pool? Convenience shop?
- Is the community near a beauty/hair salon and barber? Library? Grocery store? Movies? Mall?
Other Considerations / Questions
- Is there a meal menu and can choose when to eat? Do the menu selections vary from day to day?
- Ask to see the facility’s licensing and certification reports. These show any patterns of neglect and medication errors.
- Ask to see a copy of the resident agreement which spells out the facility’s obligations. And it will list the charge of items that are extra like laundry service. How close are you to friends and relatives? Are they allowed to stay overnight?
- What is the staff to patient ratio? A good ratio for fairly independent residents is 1 to 15. In some smaller facilities, the staff will perform all the duties while in larger communities there is a separation. What is the staff turnover rate? Rates in the double digits could indicate a problem.
- If a resident becomes more disabled can the facility accommodate those needs?
- Who dispenses medication and how much training have they had? States have training requirements.
- What are the move-out criteria? When might a senior be asked to leave?
For more information on assisted living or memory care, contact Manor Lake BridgeMill.
Water Consumption Awareness For Seniors
23 May 2019
Extreme heat in summer can be deadly to children and seniors alike. Both are highly susceptible to dehydration and excessive heat can trigger heat stress and/or stroke. It is important that caregivers are aware of the early signs of dehydration which includes confusion, drowsiness, labored speech, dry mouth, and sunken eyeballs. Because these signs can be a normal state for elderly people, it can be difficult to determine if one is actually suffering the condition. Our assisted living staff and senior caregivers are fully trained, educated, and most importantly deeply familiar with our residents making heat-related issues a non-threat to all.
The required daily water consumption of a senior citizen is the same with young people. The baseline recommendation is once cup of water for every 20 pounds of body weight (6-8 glasses / day). The consumption quantity increases considering the excessive heat and increased physical exertion levels during summer. It is important to keep in mind that the less the elderly drink the less thirsty they become. This increases their risk to dehydration. They are also more prone to dehydration because their kidney function likely have declined over the years.
Water should be served at every meal. It should be readily available night and day. Extra water consumption monitoring should be given to those who are not able to hydrate all by themselves. For more information about hydration awareness for seniors, contact Manor Lake Bridgemill.
The Advantages To Senior Assisted Living
16 May 2019
Whether your senior loved one requires close supervision or not, moving them to assisted living community present a plausible option. It doesn't only benefit the senior resident but it also lightens the load of the tending family member.
As senior loved ones physically and/or mentally deteriorate, the ability for family to provide constant care also begins to deteriorate. Family care becomes significantly taxing when our seniors have an existing health condition that requires beyond the ability of the non-professional care provider. Assisted living communities provide easy access to medical care and professional nursing. Families feel more secured and re-assured knowing their loved one’s health are closely monitored and their daily needs are well-taken care of. It also eases the burden of the family member who constantly sacrifices their time just to tend for the senior loved one.
Passing your responsibility of taking care of your senior family doesn't mean you’re giving up on them. That is absolutely the wrong notion. To the contrary, the act of providing professional assisted living services is a loving way to provide your loved one with the quality of life that you wish for and that they deserve. That is why we at Manor Lake BridgeMill we feel we become an extension of your family and strive for our residents to view us as the same.
For more information about assisted living and dementia care, contact Manor Lake BridgeMill.
Mother's Day Gift Ideas for Senior Moms
9 May 2019
At our assisted living community here in Canton we help children and grandchildren honor their senior moms on Mother's day. Aside from facilitating fun bonding moments for them, we also help them look for best Mother's day presents. Here are some useful gift ideas for grand moms staying in senior living community:
- knitting and crocheting supplies
- adult coloring books
- electronic photo frame
- favorite books
- favorite DVD movies or tv shows
- spa gift certificate
- crafts and painting supplies
- favorite music CDs
- bird feeders and seeds
- journals or diaries
- favorite snacks and homemade treats
- puzzles and adult gameboards
Of course, still the best thing you can give your mom on Mother's day is the gift of time. Spend the whole day with her and you will surely make their day. Contact Manor Lake BridgeMill and know the details of what we have in store for our senior mother residents for this upcoming Mother's day.
Lifting Weights Can Slow Mental Aging
25 April 2019
For those who are seeking for ways to combat devastating memory loss, a research from University of British Columbia revealed that resistance training can help delay brain deterioration.
A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society researched 155 women in 65 to 75 years of age. In the group, 54 subjects have a positive MRI scan result revealing brain lesions that indicates an aging brain. The team monitored these women for a year while they begin to perform three types of exercise program. This includes lifting weights once weekly, lifting weights twice per week, and stretching and balance training for the control group.
At the end of the year, another round of scan is done of the women’s brains. The control group has shown progression of brain lesions in both number and size. On the other hand, there's a delay in the progression of lesions in those who lifted weights twice weekly.
Other forms of strength training includes:
- push-ups
- leg squats
- resistance tubing
- free weight exercises
- resistance machine workouts
At our Manor Lake Assisted Living and memory care communities, we encourage our senior residents to participate in various workouts and physical activity offered to them. We also do believe that increasing physical activity in safe levels can significantly help slow down mental decline.
Contact Manor Lake BridgeMill to find out more about senior memory care.
Summer Safety Precautions for Seniors
18 April 2019
The warmer days of summer is a welcome prescription for fun outdoor activities. For seniors, however, increasing heat and humidity can be particularly detrimental to health. In assisted living communities like Manor Lake BridgeMill in Canton, GA, we implement strict precautions when conducting outdoor activities so that our beloved community members enjoy the fun of the summer season. Here is how we do it:
- Doctor's Visit - Prior to any activity, we make sure our senior residents are medically cleared by the physician. Prescribed and emergency medication must be secured during packing for long drives. Also making sure that medications are stored in the right temperature to prevent it from expiring easily.
- Keep them hydrated - Dehydration is the major enemy during extreme heat and seniors are more prone to dehydration because their body tends to conserve water less as they age. Their ability to recognize thirst is also becoming impaired as adjusting to climate transitioning also becoming a difficulty. Thus, we make sure we pack extra water during long trips and make sure they drink often.
- Make an Emergency List - It's important to prepare a list of emergency phone number and post it to somewhere accessible just in case the need arise.
- Wear Proper Clothing / Accessories - Encourage seniors to wear light and loose-fitting clothing so they feel more cool and comfortable while strolling. You may also advise them to wear sunglasses and hats as additional protection from the sun.
For more about caring for seniors, contact Manor Lake BridgeMill.
Benefits of Gardening For Seniors with Dementia
11 April 2019
Gardening is a common hobby among many (if not most) Americans as it promotes both mental and physical health. That is why we celebrate gardening as an active activity for our memory care residents! Gardening is a celebration of regeneration and gardening regenerates the spirit of not only our memory care residents but it regenerates the spirit of their family and our staff as well.
Here are several reasons why this particular stuff should be part of the many craft making activities for seniors:
- Promotes Mental Health - Starting a garden and caring for plants requires a person's focus and concentration. The activity enables the grower to be mindful of the nature and surrounding. This is beneficial for seniors with dementia for it exercises the brain.
- Relieves Stress and Anxiety - Simply by digging soil, planting, pruning and watering the plants can promote sense of peace and contentment. Also, getting a fresh air as you care for your garden in the open calms the mind and releases tensions in the body.
- Promotes Exercise - As a matter of fact, gardening can help you burn calories up to 330 per hour. It is actually considered as a moderate to high intensity form of physical activity.
- Immune System Enhancer - Since you got to spend more time outdoors to do your gardening, you get to take advantage of the Vitamin D that you directly get from sunlight. Vitamin D is important to better absorb calcium in body.
- Decreases Blood Pressure - Since gardening is a form of exercise, doing this physical activity regularly can help better manage a senior's weight which in due course lowers blood pressure as well.
- Enhances Balance, Flexibility and Stamina - Gardening tasks involves stretching and walking. Thus, in the process improves balance, flexibility and stamina.
At our Manor Lake Assisted Living and memory care communities gardening is one the most celebrated recreational therapies by our treasured residents. This activity is indeed a fun hobby to develop packed with many health benefits.
Contact Manor Lake BridgeMill to find out more about our recreational activities that we have in store for our senior residents.
Early Manifestations of Alzheimer's Disease
5 April 2019
Alzheimer's Disease, sadly, increasingly afflicts people and their loved ones. Roughly five million Americans have been victimized by the disease. Unfortunately, there is no cure for the disease but there are already therapies that help delay the progression of the disease. Being fully informed of the illness especially of its early indicators are essential as these variables can help families help their loved ones, to manage family care support strategies, and when it might be time to consider turning to professional memory care services.
The list below are the early signs of Alzheimer's Disease:
- Difficulty in Performing Usual Tasks
- Memory loss
- Speech Problems
- Disorientation to Time and Place
- Poor or Decreased Judgment
- Issues with Abstract Thinking
- Misplacing Things
- Mood and Behavior Changes
- Personality Changes
- Loss of Initiative
When you notice these signs more frequently, it is highly recommended to seek medical experts that can help you manage the disease. Long before the disease is pronounced, you should strongly consider researching for a memory care community that you can trust to protect and nurture your loved ones quality of life.
We know the stress that family members suffer when caring for their Alzheimer's loved on. We exist to provide loving care to those suffer various forms of memory afflictions throughout Canton, GA. Don’t be afraid to talk about it. Contact the memory care professionals at Manor Lake BridgeMill.
Assisted Living Open New Productive Doors
27 March 2019
The primary concern for every family considering assisted living services for their loved ones is what quality of care is he or she going to get. We welcome to demonstrate to you the loving quality of live delivered by the professional assisted living community team here at Manor Lake.
Although your initial research into assisted living services can be stressful, we offer reassurance that it need not be. You simply must personally visit and get to know each and every assisted living community that you are even remotely considering. You need to see the living space, meet the staff, view the activities, assess medical care services, and all other things that you need to see and verify as meeting the standard of living and care that you demand. Manor Lakes provides a wide space for living, active recreational and social schedule, and an unprecedented regional reputation for excellence in assisted living care.
At Manor Lake BridgeMill, our facility is open for short-term stays or for permanent residency. Our goal is to create a homelike atmosphere for our residents where we allow them to exercise their independence and provide wide variety of options and choice for activities that can help them thrive. Meanwhile, we deliver round the clock assistance especially on the medical needs of those with chronic illnesses.
If your are looking for the best senior assisted living community in Canton GA, contact Manor Lake BridgeMill.
Recognizing Alzheimer's Disease Early
20 March 2019
Some studies conclude that up to 80% of patients with deteriorating cognitive ability are not diagnosed by primary care . Our loved one’s with declining memory function are more likely to be initially diagnosed by family than by clinicians. It's important to know the early signs of Alzheimer's in order to begin a host of medical and behavioral actions that prolong memory wellness. Here are early signs that you need to pay attention to:
- Memory lapses that upset daily routine
- Having trouble in planning or problem solving
- Time and place disorientation or unable to recognize visual images
- Social activities withdrawal
- Mood or personality changes
- Speech and writing difficulties
Diagnosing memory issues early and subsequent immediate response is an insurance policy for your loved one’s quality of life. Early diagnosis and action helps all parties respond to current challenges and the more difficult challenges that are sure to come. With the help of memory care professionals, you can take proactive measures to assess both your loved one’s and you own life’s situation to strategically plan the eventual transition from independent living (or family support living) to professional communal assisted living lifestyle.
Contact Manor Lake BridgeMill to find out more about caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s Disease.
Choosing The Right Memory Care Community
13 March 2019
Researching where a loved one with dementia can secure the best quality of life and quality of care is an unquestioned labor of love. It’s possible that you have researched and possibly visited several communities while looking for the right memory care program and community for your dear loved one. We are proud of the repeat feedback we get from our resident family members that we are the first and ONLY Alzheimer's and Dementia home community that they visited. We’re told by many that they knew we were right for their family from the moment they walked in.
When deciding where to move your loved one consider the following:
Support - The right memory care community delivers support and does not motivate complete dependency. It's important that your memory care community promotes independence and self-sufficiency to the maximum extent possible.
Choice and Dignity - Safety certainly is a top priority when looking for the right assisted living and memory care community. Encouraging an active lifestyle need not introduce risk to memory care residents as long as risk in professionally managed. Activities such as walking and exploring are important to boost senior's health and dignity but the activity must be actively managed by trained professional care givers. We are those caring, energized, and trained professional care givers.
Purposeful Experiences – Lifelong hobbies can and should be carried forward into memory care services. Bingo and live music provide entertainment, but lifelong loves like holding and playing musical instruments, dance, and any other art can and should be incorporated into managed memory care.
We’d welcome the opportunity to share with you our approach to memory care services here in Canton. Contact Manor Lake BridgeMill anytime!
Advantages of Transitioning to Assisted Senior Living
6 March 2019
This blog post discusses the joys of downsizing to a senior living community. Downsizing to a senior living community should be one of life’s true celebrations. You’ve raised your kids, they’re off to managing their own families elsewhere, and now it’s time to ease the physical burden of home ownership, live a quality of life supported by health care professionals, and spend more time with friends and neighbors.
Although leaving the house you’ve lived in for the past twenty, thirty, or more years is always a sentimental challenge, inevitably the logic of transitioning to assisted care wins out. Just consider the following perks that a assisted living community offers:
Less Home Maintenance Obligations
Assisted living offers you and your loved ones a range of options as it pertains to independence. As it pertains to cleaning and maintaining your residence, assisted living communities offer you and your loved one the ability to take as little or as much of cleaning and maintenance responsibility as you like. We understand the dignity that most take in self-maintaining their residence, but that should never come at the expense of health and safety. Our assisted living professionals are trained in the art of assisting you and your loved one to self-manage their lives to the maximum extend desired and/or possible.
Help is Within Reach
One of the core benefits of living in our assisted senior housing community here in Canton, GA is having on-site caregivers that assist the residents with personal and medical needs. This assures that nutritional and medical support needs are carefully monitored and delivered. Those who require assistance with daily personal care (bathing, dressing, eating, and medications) get custom levels of support depending on the orders of the resident, resident’s family, and the medical support team.
Improves Social Life
At Manor Lake BridgeMill's senior assisted living community, our residents build meaningful relationships with their peers and neighbors. We manage group activities and outings which support a meaningful quality of life.
To find out more benefits of transitioning from independent to assisted senior living, contact Manor Lake BridgeMill.
Signs It Might Be Time for Senior Assisted Living
27 February 2019
People with Alzheimer's or other memory challenges ultimately require some degree of professional care. The same is true with those seniors who suffer significant physical ailments. One of the single most difficult decisions any family member must address is when has the challenges of day-to-day care of my beloved family member goes beyond the ability to deliver. Family members supporting their senior family members suffering from memory care and/or physical health issues most often admit far too late that they can no longer deliver the level of care that their loved one’s deserve. A common admission is that we should have long ago sought a assisted living consult or a memory care consult. Please know that this is perfectly natural and explainable part of being human and deeply committed to your senior loved one. It is never too late to consult others on how to improve the level of care to your loved ones.
Here are some tell-tale signs that professional senior care may be in order:
- Worsening Medical Condition - As the disease progresses, they require more medical attention. They are becoming less capable of taking care of themselves and they are prone to accidents and injuries. On top of that, the potential for medical emergencies increases as well.
- Monetary Problems - Aging people especially those with dementia are slowly becoming incapable of handling their finances. Their abstract thinking is affected by the disease which makes complex computation becoming difficult for them to manage.
- Senior Isolation - Isolation simply can affect their overall health. They usually would develop conditions such as depression, addiction and poor health habits.
- Untidy Living Space - As their condition slowly deteriorates, senior's physical ability also weakens to the extent of becoming incapable of doing household chores. This is crucial since there's a great chance that they can't make or cook their own food anymore. They probably aren't eating healthy food or full meals which leads to general unhealthiness.
- Poor Hygiene - Messy grooming habits or unpleasant odor indicates their declining ability or lack of motivation to take care of him or herself.
If you're loved one is displaying some or all of these issues, senior assisted living professionals can help. It may or may not be time to consider assisted living services like those that we deliver at Manor Lake Bridgmill's Assisted Living and Memory Care , where professional and dignified assisted living and memory care is both our specialty and devotion.
Contact Manor Lake BridgeMill to learn more about assisted living with memory care.
Assisted Living in Manor Lake BridgeMill
24 February 2019
Our senior living care services in Canton, GA set the standard in providing family-like trusted and loving care for your loved ones. Our team is composed of certified and skilled staff ready, able, and eager to assist our senior community in any aspect of their daily lives. We take pride in meticulously monitor and adhere to family and physician’s orders.
At Manor Lake BridgeMill's assisted senior housing, we cook meals as if they were for our own family, assist with housekeeping and laundry services to the extent that our guests desire. We understand the value of self-sufficiency and are keenly aware at all times to act in a manner that delivers our guests (and your family member) with a high quality of life.
A keen focus of our care is to nurture the larger senior living community and motivate social interaction across the entire community. Friendships flourish here and it is a joy to witness.
If you are looking for a senior assisted living care community that you can celebrate together with your loved one, then Manor Lake BridgeMill here in Canton GA is a community you’ve got to see. Contact us to find out more about our services and programs.
Welcome to Manor Lake BridgeMill
24 February 2019
If you’re worried about a loved one, you’ll find relief at Manor Lake BridgeMill.
Care at Manor Lake BridgeMill is more than just meals and medications. It includes serving the Body, Mind and Spirit of a senior – because care is physical, emotional, and transcendent.
It begins with an Personalized Care Plan based on individual need, and continues with a community that’s comfortable and easy to learn and navigate.
The care staff is directed by a nurse who makes sure your loved one receives appropriate and gentle care in a fun environment.
We hope you’re excited about having a senior care community in BridgeMill focused on the health and well-being of your loved one.
Please call us today to find out more about how we may be abele to help you at Manor Lake BridgeMill.
