Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

What Is Alzheimer’s?

Alzheimer’s is a kind of dementia that impacts memory, thinking and behaviors. Symptoms, in time, develop to be severe enough to interpose with day-to-day tasks.

Understanding Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Alzheimer’s is the most general source of dementia, a typical term for memory loss and other mental abilities severe enough to disrupt day-to-day life. Alzheimer’s disease is responsible for sixty to eighty percent of dementia cases.

Alzheimer’s isn’t a normal part of getting older. The biggest known risk factor is aging, and most individuals with Alzheimer’s are sixty-five or older. This disease is a “younger-onset” of Alzheimer’s when it impacts an individual under sixty-five. Younger-onset can also be known as early-onset Alzheimer’s. Individuals with younger-onset Alzheimer’s could be in the early, middle, or later stage of the disease.

Alzheimer’s worsens progressively. This is a type of progressive disease, in which dementia symptoms steadily worsen over several years. In earlier stages, memory loss is moderate, but with later-stage Alzheimer’s, people lose the capability to engage in a conversation and respond to their settings. On average, an individual with this disease lives five to nine years after diagnosis but could live as long as twenty years, dependent to other factors.

There is no cure, but there are two treatments —  lecanemab (Leqembi™) and  aducanumab (Aduhelm™) show that the removal of beta-amyloid, one of the characteristics of Alzheimer’s disease, from the brain decreases cognitive and functional reduction in individuals living with early on-set of Alzheimer’s. Other treatments can briefly slow the increasing of dementia symptoms and better the quality of life for those suffering from the disease and their caretakers. Presently, there is an international effort underway to discover better ways to treat the disease, impede its onset and prevent it from progressing.

10 Early Signs and Symptoms of Alzheimer’s (and Examples)

Loss of memory impacting day-to-day life could be a symptom of Alzheimer’s or other type of dementia. This is a brain disease that is the cause of a progressive decrease in memory, reasoning and thinking skills. There are ten symptoms and warning signs. When you observe any of them, don’t disregard them. Arrange an appointment with your medical professional.

  • Memory loss that disrupts daily life – Forgetting names or plans, but recalling them later
  • Troubles in planning or solving problems – Sometimes making errors when managing utility bills or finances
  • Troubles completing familiar tasks – Needing help with the TV remote
  • Confusion with time or place – Confused about the day of the week but remembering later
  • Challenges understanding spatial relationships and visual images– Vision changes associated with cataracts
  • New challenges with words when speaking or writing – Often troublesome to find the right words
  • Diminished or poor judgment – Making bad decisions
  • Seclusion from work or social activities – Often feeling uninterested in social events
  • Changes in personality and mood– Getting frustrated when routines are disrupted

Find Retirement Communities In Sedona

Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers independent living in Sedona, Arizona, can help! Call us today at (928) 496-6547 and learn more about our facility and what we have to offer today’s seniors.

Alzheimer’s Disease, Assisted Living, Dementia, Senior Living
0
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Cost Of Independent Living

How Much Does Independent Living Cost?

The cost of independent living will vary by location, care given, and services provided.  Keep reading to find out the average costs of independent living.

On average, independent living costs around $3,750 each year with average costs ranging from $1,500 to $6,000 each year in 2023 as reported by whereyoulivematters.com.

Elmcroft backs this up by stating, “Depending upon the area of the country you live in and what type of services and amenities are included, the price range for independent living is generally between $1,500 and $6,000 a month.”

  1. A simple ‘Service Rate’ each month runs between $1,000 and $10,000, respectfully
  2. A lot of apartments run around $2,300 and $3,500.
  3. The one-time fees in which comprise of the admission and apartment preparation runs between $500 and $1,500.

The prices above are for informational purposes only, for educating those curious about senior housing’s general cost. A community’s particular price range will vary and might be different to the typical costs listed above.

Amenities and Service Costs

Monthly rent is going to typically include several services, like the following:

  • All utilities excluding phone services or extended cable.
  • They keep a full schedule for different activities, scheduled transportation for things like doctor’s appointments, off-site activities, and shopping, etc.
  • Housekeeping comes on a routine weekly basis, which comprises of washing bed linens and bath towels.
  • They offer one to three meals a day that are prepared by a chef and served in a restaurant-style dining area.
  • They offer maintenance for different contingents, like HVAC filter changes, repairs on appliances, and more.
  • Emergency systems are in place and they offer several security features.

Any added charges are going to generally be the admission and/or community fees (that are non-refundable), and can range between $750 – $1,500 on average, which will cover the managerial expenses and building renovation costs. An expense for a second individual, if there is going to be one living there, this cost is typically between $500 – $1,000 each month, which can be evaluated for couples.

It would be wise to compare the costs that are related with both, residing in a home as a single family and moving to an independent living community, seek out the financial impact of each prior to making any decisions. A good piece of advice –  “Small Expenses do make an Impact on Seniors Lifestyles.” Don’t take for granted or underestimate expenses that are spent on dining, and the expense put towards the purchase of personal items.

Independent Living Cost Vs Assisted Living Cost

The cost of independent living will vary by location, care given, and services provided.  Keep reading to find out the average costs of independent living. On average, independent living costs around $3,750 each year with average costs ranging from $1,500 to $6,000, as reported by whereyoulivematters.com.

Assisted living costs in Sedona, Arizona average $4,005; with high costs ranging around $5,804 and low costs ranging around $2,206. This cost is slightly below the natural average median of $3,285.

Sedona Winds Retirement Offers Independent Living In Sedona

Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers independent living, memory care, and assisted living in Sedona, Arizona. Call us today at (928) 496-6547 and learn more about our facility and what we have to offer today’s seniors.

More Articles About Assisted Living

Independent Living, Retirement, Senior Living
,
0
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

What are Symptoms of Dementia?

 

What are symptoms of dementia?

Whether you are worried for yourself or someone important to you, it’s vital to know the warning signs of dementia so you are able to guarantee a diagnosis early. Below are ten of the more prevalent warning signs of dementia. So, what are symptoms of dementia?

Sign 1: Memory Loss That Impacts Daily Abilities

It’s commonplace to sometimes forget appointments, colleagues’ names or a friend’s phone number just to remember them a little while later. Nevertheless, an individual living with dementia might forget things more frequently or may have difficulty remembering information that has recently been learned.

Sign 2: Problems Performing Familiar Tasks

Busy individuals can be so distracted from now and then that they might forget to serve a portion of a meal, only to recall it later. Nevertheless, an individual living with dementia might have difficulty completing tasks that have been familiar to them their whole life, like preparing a meal or playing a boardgame.

Sign 3: Problems with Language

Everyone has trouble finding the right word to say what they wish to say. On the other hand, an individual living with dementia might forget simple words or might substitute words in such a way they are saying making it hard to understand.

Sign 4: Disorientation of Time and Place

Have you ever failed to remember what day of the week it is or can’t recall the reason you went into your kitchen? It happens to the best of us. Individuals living with dementia might become disoriented on their own street, without knowledge of how they got there or how to get back home.

Sign 5: Impaired Judgement

From time to time, people might make questionable decisions like putting off going to a doctor when they aren’t feeling well. Nevertheless, an individual living with dementia might experience changes in judgment or making decisions, like not recognizing a medical issue that needs addressing or wearing less clothing on a cold day.

Sign 6: Problems with Abstract Thinking

Occasionally, individuals have a hard time with duties that necessitate abstract thinking, like using a phone or solving problems. One the other hand, someone living with dementia might have considerable difficulties with such duties because of a loss of comprehending what numbers are and the way they are used.

Sign 7: Misplacing Things

Anyone could temporarily misplace their wallet or car keys. Nevertheless, an individual living with dementia might put things where they don’t belong. For instance, an iron in the oven, or a cellphone in the sugar bowl.

Sign 8: Changes in Mood and Behavior

Everyone can feel sad or moody from now and again. On the other hand, an individual living with dementia can demonstrate various mood swings – from peacefulness to crying to anger – without reason.

Sign 9: Personality Changes

Personalities can change in little ways over time. Nevertheless, an individual living with dementia might experience more noticeable personality changes and can become baffles, suspect, or distant. Changes might also include disinterest or fearfulness.

Sign 10: Loss of Initiative

It’s commonplace to get tired of housework, business obligations or social duties, but most individuals get their initiative back. Be that as it may, an individual living with dementia might become submissive and uninterested and needs cues and encouragement to become interested.

 

Find Retirement Communities In Sedona

Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers independent living in Sedona, Arizona, can help! Call us today at (928) 496-6547 and learn more about our facility and what we have to offer today’s seniors.

Dementia, Senior Living
0
Easy Crafts For Seniors With Dementia
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Easy Crafts For Seniors With Dementia

Here are five easy crafts that all seniors suffering from dementia will love.

Crafts For Seniors With Dementia

It’s important to choose activities that do not have a set of rules. You want to use these crafts as tools to engage your loved one mentally. Fun activities have been proven to reduce not only depression but agitation, as well. Always remember that safety comes first, even with these easy activities. Avoid the possibility of any injury risks or dangers.

1. Homemade Play Dough

Everyone, especially seniors, can enjoy some homemade play dough. Let your loved one’s creative side take over as they begin molding shapes out of play dough. Grab a few cookie cutters to make this enjoyable task easier. You can store the play dough anywhere except the fridge, before and after the activity. Also, keep away from any potentially toxic play dough mixes. Mix in a few drops of essential oils to make this task more relaxing for you and your loved one.

Supplies Needed:

  • Play dough.
  • Cookie cutters.
  • Essential oils.

2. Fun With Pipes And Fittings

It’s quite possible that the senior individual did enjoy some handy work as a homeowner. Remind them of the good ol’ days with this task. Gather a few lengths of PVC piping and some fittings, and that’s it! You are good to go for this activity. Watch and enjoy as this task could do wonders for the senior’s self-esteem.

Supplies Needed:

  • Fittings.
  • PVC piping.
  • Elbows.
  • T-joints.

3.  Magnetic Letters

Let your loved one find and create as many words with magnetic letters spread over a baking sheet. This task will undoubtedly get the mind moving and engaged.

Supplies Needed:

  • Magnetic letters.
  • Baking sheet.

Magnetic Letters

4. Flower Arrangements

Try this activity for seniors who enjoyed planting and gardening in their own yards. Arranging flowers can easily take them back to a happier time and place. It is also a great way to help them flex their creative muscles, at the same time. This is another activity that you can help participate in.

Supplies Needed:

  • Artificial flowers.
  • Florist foam.
  • Plastic vase.

5. Scrapbooking

This activity will require a few more supplies than the other ones previously listed. You will need to grab a notebook, magazines, newspapers and scissors. Have your loved one look through the literature, while cutting out letters and words of their choosing. Piece it all together at the end.

Supplies Needed:

  • Magazines.
  • Notebook.
  • Catalogs.
  • Newspaper.
  • Glue stick.
  • Scissors.

Find Retirement Communities In Sedona

Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers independent living in Sedona, Arizona, can help! Call us today at (928) 496-6547 and learn more about our facility and what we have to offer today’s seniors.

More Articles About Assisted Living

Senior Living
0
Levels Of Care For Elderly
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

Levels Of Care For Elderly

There are 6 levels of care for the elderly. Let’s take a look at all of these care options!

In-Home Care

Sometimes referred to as “aging in place”, in-home care is intended for seniors who need help around the home. Most of these seniors, though, still possess the necessary physical and mental capabilities to survive on their own for the time being. With in-home care, seniors can expect daily check-ins, help taking medication(s) and personal care assistance.

Staying home in a comfortable environment is a very appealing options for most seniors. The only downside associated with in-home care is this situation does not tend to last very long. Patients receiving in-home care tend to move onto independent or assisted living communities in the near future.

Independent Living

Independent living is merely a living arrangement for seniors that are 55 or older. There are a couple of omissions to this. Housing for seniors is going to differ in kinds like free-standing homes, senior retirement communities, and apartment living. Senior housing is going to have a friendly atmosphere, they are more compact, and are equipped to allow seniors to get around easily and all ground-work and/or maintenance is taken care of for them.

A lot of independent living communities are going to provide its residents with various activities and programs, other services, in addition to amenities. Independent living housing usually has a rec center and/or clubhouse that is going to allow seniors to interact with others their own age. Independent living also will have community participation in arts & crafts, holiday meeting, movie nights, and other kinds of activities.

Assisted Living

The biggest difference between assisted living and independent living is the amount of care provided. In an assisted living community or facility, the staff is much more attentive to the needs of all the residents. Daily services like help bathing, laundry, housekeeping and medical care will be offered. The majority of these communities will also have staff on call 24 hours a day, 7 days per week.

Overall cost is one of the deciding factors for most residents picking between assisted and independent offerings. The financial responsibilities for an assisted living resident will far outweigh those of an independent resident. Specific meal plans and round-the-clock care make assisted living the more expensive option of the two living situations. Typical costs like utilities and rent make up the majority of independent costs, unlike assisted living.

Respite Care

Respite care is the perfect compromise for seniors who are apprehensive about moving to an independent or assisted living community. This is known as the best care situation for elderly patients in transition. Of course, this care may last a long time or a very short time, depending on the senior’s overall condition. Essentially, respite care can be seen as a bit of a test run before a senior moves into a new care community.

Memory Care

Memory care services are usually offered in assisted living facilities. In addition to offering the standard services like meals every day, and personalized care services, assisted living facilities that offer memory care are required to have secured and safe outdoor areas in which their residents may enjoy without the risk of roaming.

Many facilities also have special programs that comprise of stable routines and therapeutic activities to encourage social interaction and cognitive engagement. Because of these enhanced security measures and program aspects, memory care usually costs 20 percent to 30 percent more than an assisted living facility.

Nursing Home Care

Undoubtedly the most concentrated living situation for seniors is nursing home care. Nursing homes will feature more invasive care than any other situation. Seniors who require frequent hospital visits and/or are in an overall health decline are urged to choose nursing homes.

Find Retirement Communities In Sedona

Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers independent living in Sedona, Arizona, can help! Call us today at (928) 496-6547 and learn more about our facility and what we have to offer today’s seniors.

More Articles About Assisted Living

Senior Living
0
Christmas Crafts For Seniors
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Christmas Crafts For Seniors

Are you looking for some of the best and easiest crafts to make for the Christmas season? Seniors will love all of the following projects!

Cocoa Mugs

Nothing says holiday season quite like a hot cup of cocoa. For this craft, the instructions are simple and easy to follow. Begin by picking out either porcelain or ceramic mugs from any store of your choosing. Choose solid colors so your extra decorations can stand out as much as possible. Next, use some porcelain pens to decorate the mugs with various designs and/or patterns. Seal the artwork in by baking the mugs in the oven for 30 minutes at a temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Personalize the cups by adding names of loved ones!

Materials Needed:

  • Porcelain or ceramic mug.
  • Porcelain pens.

Christmas Candy Containers

The holidays are meant for the sweet tooth. Make sure plenty of candy and treats are available for anyone stopping by to share the holiday spirit. Container designs are completely up to you! Presentation is key with this fun craft, so spruce it up as much as you’d like. Make the container look like a classic gumball machine or some other timeless design.

Materials Needed:

  • Any sort of candy container.
  • Pens, markers or paintbrushes.

Glitter Ornaments

Start this project by laying down some newspaper on a tabletop to prevent any glue from sticking to the area. Then, spread out several bowls, one for glue and another for the glitter. Hold the ornaments by the top loop and dip the body into the glue. Allow the excess glue to completely drip off, then begin sprinkling the glitter onto the ornament. Once dried, feel free to add paint or any other materials to the ornaments.

Materials Needed:

  • Two bowls.
  • Glitter.
  • Glue.
  • Paintbrushes.

Cookie Cutter Ornaments

Grab some cookie cutters and figure out how to best decorate them. Personalized them by adding pictures or names of loved ones. Use as many bright colors as possible, then add them to your Christmas tree.

Materials Needed:

  • Cookie cutters.
  • Blank ornaments.

Christmas Cards

Homemade Christmas cards can seem sort of old fashioned, yet these projects can be so fun to take part in. Giving your Christmas cards a personalized touch instead of sending them via email can really brighten your friends and family’s days.

Materials Needed:

  • Christmas cards.

Christmas Bow Wreath

A Christmas bow wreath is the perfect combination of two classic Christmas symbols. The Christmas wreath can be constructed mainly out of gift bows. This is a very easy craft to put together and it makes for a beautiful decoration.

Materials Needed:

  • Gift bows.
  • Christmas wreath.

Snow Globes

Making a snow globe can be one of the trickier crafts to attempt to create. However, making a waterless snow globes can be much easier. It will be a fun project and eventually become a joy to look at.

Materials Needed:

  • Snow globe.
  • Paintbrushes/paint.

Find Retirement Communities In Sedona

Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers independent living in Sedona, Arizona, can help! Call us today at (928) 496-6547 and learn more about our facility and what we have to offer today’s seniors.

More Articles About Assisted Living

Senior Living
, ,
1
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

Stretches for Seniors

Stretches for Seniors

You don’t have to be a 4K runner to reap the benefits from a daily stretching routine. As we get older, we are more prone to have tighter muscles, in which could pull on our bones and other bodily structures, making us feel rigid, on the fritz and more.

Stretches for today’s seniors offers several benefits, comprising of:

  • Increases in blood flow
  • Increases range of motion, in which could aid in preventing injury
  • Reduction in stress
  • Elevated mood

How often and what needs to be stretched? It is recommended stretching every day and when you feel tight, sore or rigid. The following are stretches older adults can try:

Arm Opener Stretch

This will stretch both your arms, shoulders and chest area.

How it’s done: Stand comfortably with your feet apart and interlace your fingers behind you. Allow your hands to fall-down by your tailbone with your knuckles pointing down.

Stare straight ahead and keep your arms soft. Then slowly lift your arms as far away from your tailbone as possible.

Chin Drop Stretch

This stretch aids in neck pain and will stretch both your neck and shoulders.

How it’s done: Place your arms in the front of you with both of your elbows and your palms touching. Be sure your palms are facing towards your face. Then place your palms on top of your head, and lightly let your chin drop. You should be able to feel this stretch your neck and shoulders.

Hula Hoop Stretch

This stretch will increase mobility in your hips.

How it’s done: Stand with your feet placed together and put your hands on both your hips. Then—just as you would hula-hoop—circle your hips 5 times clockwise, and then 5 times counter-clockwise. Attempt to resist the movement of your shoulders and keep your stomach being pulled-in.

Yo-Yo Stretch

This stretch will aid in aligning your spine and for improved posture.

How it’s done: Stand with your feet about shoulder width apart. Position your toes somewhat out. Interlace your fingers with the palms facing outward and bring them up to your chest. Continue with this position and turn from side-to-side. Make sure you keep your lower body fixed and keep your head in-line with your torso.

Quad Pull Stretch

This will stretch your thighs and improve your mobility.

How it’s done: Stand having your feet together. place your arms on your sides. Utilize a wall or table for support and place your right hand on it. Balance yourself on your right leg. Move your left leg back until you are able grab it with your left hand. Be sure you maintain a direct line from your head to your tail-bone having your chest lifted.

Triceps Stretch

This will stretch both right and left triceps and improve mobility in your arms.

How it’s done: Stand with your feet about hip width apart. Raise your arms over head and maneuver your right arm so it is behind your head. Put your left hand just above your right elbow, and lightly bring your right arm in. Hold for ten to thirty seconds. Let go, switch your arms, and repeat.

Calf Stretch

This will stretch both of your right and left calves improving mobility.

How it’s done: Stand with your right leg in front of you and somewhat bent, and your left leg straight behind you. If you would prefer, carry out this stretch near a wall or counter, holding it for support.

Lightly press your left heel into the floor to feel a relaxed stretch. Hold for ten to thirty seconds. Let go, switch your arms, and repeat.

Speak With Your Doctor

When you stretch you should not experience any pain; stop immediately if you are experiencing any pain while stretching. Stretching improves flexibility and mobility and can reduce the possibility of injury. When you have any questions about starting a stretching routine, speak with your doctor. 

Find Independent Living In Sedona

Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers independent living in Sedona, Arizona, can help! Call us today at (928) 496-6547 and learn more about our facility and what we have to offer today’s seniors.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Independent Living, Senior Living, Stretches for Seniors
,
0
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

How Much Does Independent Living Cost?

How Much Does Independent Living Cost?

The cost of independent living will vary by location, care given, and services provided.  Keep reading to find out the average costs of independent living.

On average, independent living costs around $3,750 each year with average costs ranging from $1,500 to $6,000 each year in 2021 as reported by whereyoulivematters.com.

Elmcroft backs this up by stating, “Depending upon the area of the country you live in and what type of services and amenities are included, the price range for independent living is generally between $1,500 and $6,000 a month.”

  1. A simple ‘Service Rate’ each month runs between $1,000 and $10,000, respectfully
  2. A lot of apartments run around $2,300 and $3,500.
  3. The one-time fees in which comprise of the admission and apartment preparation runs between $500 and $1,500.

The prices above are for informational purposes only, for educating those curious about senior housing’s general cost. A community’s particular price range will vary and might be different to the typical costs listed above.

Amenities and Service Costs

Monthly rent is going to typically include several services, like the following:

  • All utilities excluding phone services or extended cable.
  • They keep a full schedule for different activities, scheduled transportation for things like doctor’s appointments, off-site activities, and shopping, etc.
  • Housekeeping comes on a routine weekly basis, which comprises of washing bed linens and bath towels.
  • They offer one to three meals a day that are prepared by a chef and served in a restaurant-style dining area.
  • They offer maintenance for different contingents, like HVAC filter changes, repairs on appliances, and more.
  • Emergency systems are in place and they offer several security features.

Any added charges are going to generally be the admission and/or community fees (that are non-refundable), and can range between $750 – $1,500 on average, which will cover the managerial expenses and building renovation costs. An expense for a second individual, if there is going to be one living there, this cost is typically between $500 – $1,000 each month, which can be evaluated for couples.

It would be wise to compare the costs that are related with both, residing in a home as a single family and moving to an independent living community, seek out the financial impact of each prior to making any decisions. A good piece of advice –  “Small Expenses do make an Impact on Seniors Lifestyles.” Don’t take for granted or underestimate expenses that are spent on dining, and the expense put towards the purchase of personal items.

Sedona Winds Retirement Offers Independent Living In Sedona

Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers independent living, memory care, and assisted living in Sedona, Arizona. Call us today at (928) 496-6547 and learn more about our facility and what we have to offer today’s seniors.

More Articles About Assisted Living

Independent Living, Retirement, Senior Living
,
0
What is Assisted Living?
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

What is Assisted Living?

 

As the child of an elderly parent, you may find yourself asking, “What is assisted living?”

Assisted living is a home-type care facility that offers personal and medical assistance for individuals (typically elderly adults) at the same time making their independence a priority. Individuals in need of assistance get services ranging from personal care and trained nursing to senior housing.

When your parent requires continual help in their day to day lives, it might be time to look into long-term care. To establish if an assisted living community is right for your parent, keep reading to see how they’re similar and different from a nursing home, which are maybe a more well-known form of elderly care service.

What Is Assisted Living vs. Nursing Home/Long-Term Care Home?

There are 2 primary differences between an assisted living facility (also called a retirement home) and a nursing home (also called long term care homes). First, they differ in their degree of the services and support they offer. Second, there’s a distinguishable physical difference between these kinds of elderly care facilities.

Difference Between the Degree of Care Offered

Nursing homes are known for offer 24-hour care for elderly patients that might need immediate medical attention at any time. Residents usually live with age-related ailments like Alzheimer’s or osteoporosis, in which makes it especially challenging for them to carry on by themselves.

Medical assistance is offered for individuals residing in nursing homes. This usually includes trained nursing care, breathing assistance, restroom assistance, full-time supervision, and emergency services.

At the same time, assisted living is usually offered for older individuals that might not have a serious illness that impacts their quality of life. Nevertheless, they still require some degree of care to help them keep as much of their independence as possible. Or they might want to spend less time with daily chores and enjoy their life without having to do them.

An assisted living facility is less centered on nursing and healthcare, and more about helping residents sustain a safe environment with a high level of freedom.

Differences Between the Homes Themselves

What are the main differences between assisted living vs. nursing homes? Since the degree of care and supervision differs, assisted living homes and nursing homes have a different appearance.

Nursing homes are going to have more of a hospital-type feel to them having hospital-like beds, medical equipment, and more comprehensive medical attention. However, nursing homes usually try to create a comfortable environment for residents so that it’s not completely clinical.

They usually have living areas, dining-rooms, and community areas that attempt to place a somewhat home-like environment in which games, entertainment, and other communal-based activities happen.

Assisted living facilities are different in that regard. You could be hard-pressed to see the differences between apartments or condo complexes and many assisted living facilities.

A lot of assisted living residences encourage a home-like setting, with residents customizing their living areas with décor and furniture of their own.

Comparisons Between Assisted Living Facilities and Nursing Homes

Even though there are a couple of primary differences between nursing homes and assisted living facilities, each of them is senior living communities with a mission to guarantee their residents live as safely and comfortably as they can. Here are some of the principal likenesses between assisted living facilities and nursing homes.

  • Nutrition: Assisted living and nursing homes each guarantee their residents are well fed and on a routine 3 meals a day schedule.
  • Medication supervision: It’s not unusual for elderly individuals to need assistance remembering to take their meds. Having a supervising staff aids resident’s to stay on track with their wellbeing and avoid any misfortunes or possible emergency room visits.
  • An attention on quality of life: In either environment, residents are made to feel welcomed and part of larger communities. Beyond addressing straightforward physical requirements, these facilities want to guarantee residents feel fulfilled through hobbies, social involvement, spiritual passions, and other types of recreational activities.
  • Safety: Because safety is obviously a priority, facilities are probably going to have handrails and other safety measures in place for the prevention of falls and other possible risks for their residents. Additionally, the security of the facility might also include an alarm system and security guards for additional protection.
  • Assistance with day-to-day life: At either kind of location, help is provided for each resident subject to their degree of need. This might be helping your parent with their hygiene, restroom assistance, medication reminders, or strolling.

Find Assisted Living In Sedona, Arizona

Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers assisted living in Sedona, Arizona. Call us today at (928) 496-6547 and learn more about our facility and what we have to offer today’s seniors.

Assisted Living, Assisted Living Retirement Communities, Senior Living
,
0
What Are The Very Early Signs Of Dementia?
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

What Are The Very Early Signs Of Dementia?

Whether you are searching online for “what are the very early stages of dementia” or “preventing dementia,” this post can help!

Early Signs Of Dementia

Here are seven early signs of dementia to watch out for:

General Confusion

Dementia makes many things very difficult and confusing. One obvious sign is when an individual becomes confused about place and/or time, frequently. Dementia is known for making it hard to judge time and the passing of time. Difficulty with certain dates or recalling points in the past can be a sign of dementia, as well. It doesn’t just extend to place and time, though, as people experiencing memory loss will have a very difficult time trying to plan anything. Whether it is an event in the future or something that will happen momentarily, people with oncoming dementia can show general confusion.

Difficulty With Familiar Tasks

This is yet another obvious sign that you or a loved one is currently suffering. We are all creatures of habit, but when the typical daily endeavors become troublesome, this can lead to dementia. Simple activities like pouring a cup of coffee in the morning or sitting in a particular spot will now become challenging. They may not remember a part of a daily routine or completely alter it. Always be aware of changes in a person’s routine tasks as they can be very subtle.

Memory Loss

Memory loss is generally the first noticeable warning sign for anyone fearing a bout with dementia. This is the most common symptom of this unfortunate part of so many lives. As mentioned above, remembering dates and times will become a problem, but there are other ways to tell if dementia is looming. People with early dementia may start to rely more and more on others for basic needs. Friends or family members may now be tasked with keeping track of dates, doctors appointments, or even household items/possessions. Most people will forget things as they age, but if the issue persists, it is time to think about how to best care for your loved one.

Man With Dementia

Personality Changes

Speaking of clear signs of early dementia, you must monitor and document personality changes. Sure, everyone evolves and changes a bit as they grow, but dementia can cause abrupt alterations to one’s personality and demeanor. Mood swings are unfortunate, yet a common trait for those struggling with memory loss. People may become more anxious, fearful and/or irritable as time goes on. Bouts with depression or inappropriate behavior have been linked to dementia, as well.

Speaking And/Or Writing Issues

This symptom may be hard to diagnose, especially for someone who has always been an introvert. People with dementia can find it very difficult to engage others in any sort of conversation. They could also frequently forget things during a conversation, such as what was just said or the tone of the dialogue. Handwriting could also become noticeably tougher to read.

Poor Decision-Making

Poor decision-making directly relates to personality changes, mood swings and difficulty handling familiar tasks. Anyone suffering from early dementia will have a hard time being logical or understand what is fair. They can drastically change daily patterns or even make irrational purchases or decisions. Be mindful of appearance, as well. People with memory loss tend to care less about keeping themselves presentable.

Lack Of Socialization

Withdrawing more and more from the outside world can be a troubling sign. Whether it is at home or at work, people with dementia generally don’t want a lot of interaction. Regular hobbies or phone conversations may become a thing of the past.

Misplacing Things

A common sign of oncoming dementia is when someone continually misplaces items. It is a cause for concern when someone starts losing track of their keys and/or wallet, frequently. Even worse, some people with dementia may momentarily forget what their car keys are even for. Misplacing things is commonly linked with short-term memory loss.

Signs Of Dementia

Treatments for Dementia

Although there is no cure for dementia, there are steps you can take to make your loved one’s life a little easier. A good rule of thumb is to eat a healthy diet and get plenty of exercise.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy, in a specific behavioral approach, can be used to reduce the recurrence or severity of problematic behaviors, like improper conduct or aggression towards others.

Environmental Adjustments

Adjusting the environment can greatly increase their safety and comfort while decreasing their agitation. Home modifications for safety include removal of hazardous items, such as scissors or forks, harmful chemicals and tools. Use child-proof items like electrical outlet covers and door locks may also be used to limit access.

Medications

Although no medications are available to stop or cure dementia, there are medications that can be prescribed to decrease the dementia signs. Nowadays there are many types of drugs available for improving brain function. Usually, other psychotropic and anti-dementia drugs are prescribed.

Read more tips to treating dementia right here.

Find Retirement Communities In Sedona

Sedona Winds Retirement Community offers independent living in Sedona, Arizona, can help! Call us today at (928) 496-6547 and learn more about our facility and what we have to offer today’s seniors.

More Articles About Senior Living

Dementia, Senior Living
, , ,
3
1 2 3