group home for elderly

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Seniors4Seniors: For Arboria of Long Grove

Rebecca Donze and the Senior Living Experts team have partnered with talented high school seniors, many of whom have been preparing for months for their recitals, to perform for the residents at Arboria of Long Grove. The residents at Arboria, on the other hand, had advice for them.

You can watch the original Seniors4Seniors below.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4IiP4qgY9LU&t=1254s

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4IiP4qgY9LU&t=1252s

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Feeling Overwhelmed? Consider Respite Care for Elderly

How the role of social workers in Chicago assisted living facilities improve quality of life for elderly residents

Feeling overwhelmed? Consider respite care to give caregivers a much-needed break, recover from a recent illness or injury, or to provide the supportive transition home for rehabilitation. With the holidays coming, it pays to plan ahead, especially if you provide care for a senior. Injury, illness, and incidents can occur that make respite care a viable and valuable option. While it may be the senior’s wish to remain in the home as long and as independently as possible, hospitalizations do occur and respite can be a supportive part of an effective and successful recovery plan.  Senior Living Experts does the legwork for you, providing a list of names and contact information for providers, services, and supports to improve the quality of life for seniors. Check out the wide network and gamut of resources available through this user-friendly site.

Feeling overwhelmed? Consider respite care

Respite care is a short-term solution that offers seniors a safe place to stay temporarily. Respite settings are often assisted-living type facilities, which have beds available for short, recuperative admissions. Reach out to your provider and online network of senior supports to find respite care in your region, as well as to review admission guidelines and estimated costs. Some respite providers may require a physician’s referral, which helps to pinpoint patients that will most benefit from such service provision.

Why is respite care is so important:

  • Rehab and recovery

When a patient is discharged from the hospital, rehabilitation can help prevent re-hospitalization and facilitate recovery. This might entail a few days’ stay in a skilled-nursing facility, or a longer admission with specific goals in mind depending on the precipitating illness or injury. Usually, long-term rehab requires some insurance coverage beyond Medicare, though a hospital case manager can assist with finding the appropriate setting for your distinct needs.

  • Ensures safety

If a senior is living in a home that is not safe, respite care provides a safe, secure placement for the short-term, while repairs or modifications are made. The biggest safety concerns may be related to access, such as the implementation of ramps, lifts, or rails; respite can also be helpful if the senior suffers property damage, such as a flooded basement, which may make the home an unsafe habitat.

  • Caregiver relief

Respite care at an assisted-living facility also provides some relief for caregivers, giving them a break from the full-time responsibilities of caring for another person. Primary caregivers for aging or disabled individuals run the risk of burn-out if they do not take periodic breaks from their duties; this can perpetuate compassion fatigue, which is marked by depression, apathy, fatigue, and illness. Compassion fatigue is common among individuals that provide care for people or animals that are in distress or traumatized, and it can cause secondary-trauma to the caregiver if not prevented.

Some ways to prevent burn-out and compassion fatigue are:

  • Taking time to enjoy leisure activities and hobbies.
  • Engaging in exercise, fitness, or other physical activity.
  • Eating a nutritious diet and getting ample rest.
  • Setting firm boundaries with loved ones, colleagues, or clients and recognizing that you have the right to say ‘no’ to additional responsibilities, commitments, or duties.
  • Keeping stress levels low, with yoga, Pilates, meditation, massage, or other healthy pursuits.

Respite is a solution that allows the senior to return home with the same familiar faces and surroundings, and that provides a break for caregivers who provide full-time assistance. It is a safe, preferred option which can give all involved a recuperative experience.

  • Step-down to home

Respite is often merited following a hospitalization as a step-down to home. For instance, a senior that is admitted to a hospital with an infection or flu likely won’t stay in the hospital for the duration of their illness and recovery. However, heading straight home may put the patient- and those around them- at risk. What do you do? A short stay in an assisted-living respite can be the solution, providing some therapeutic care for the senior while protecting the caregivers at home.

Would you benefit from respite care? Learn more

Would you or someone you love benefit from respite care? Talk to your physician, or reach out online to find respite providers in your geographic locale. There will be guidelines and caveats, depending on where you elect to go and the nature of your stay, so speak with representatives and review online feedback to find the best options for your distinct needs.Are you in need of a break? You- or someone you love- could be a candidate for a respite care stay at an assisted living facility near you. Reach out to Senior Living Experts online for a comprehensive list of services, providers, and options that are in line with what you are looking for. Your primary care provider can assist with pinpointing the best approaches to your recovery and respite. Don’t have a doctor? Senior Living Experts can help with that, too!

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Loss of appetite in elderly: tricks to stimulate it

A lack of appetite in elderly is so very common. Often, we tell our clients to watch the inside of the refrigerator as you visit your senior loved one to be sure they are eating properly. Is the food still there from the previous days? Is there trash in the trash bin? These are signs to look for to be sure your senior is eating properly. Just as it’s normal to see a decreased appetite in seniors at this stage in their lives, it's also now that they need healthy nutrition the most.

How to increase appetite in elderly

Although there’s no treatment for loss of appetite in elderly, but there are some tricks that can help you to answer the question: ‘How to get an elderly person to eat?’ According to Countrywide Healthcare, follow these tips to help your senior eat proper meals:

  1. Make sure there are no oral problems in your senior such as mouth sores, or difficulty in swallowing. We often hear from our clients that they prefer softer foods because they are easier on the mouth, swallowing, and digestion as well. Seeing the dentist for an overall oral exam would be a good place to start.
  2. Keeping on a routine with eating is important. As we age, we don’t experience the same physiological motivation to want to eat, which can result in loss of appetite in elderly, so if we create a routine to follow, the senior will experience more regularity and the caregiver can easily keep track of what the senior is eating on a daily basis.
  3. In senior living communities, dining is a great form of socialization for the seniors. It’s an event! When we are alone, especially eating alone, this is cause for isolation and depression. Eating in a group leads to conversation and togetherness. We also see in communities that residents who use assisted walking devices to get around, whether it be a wheelchair or walker, park those aside during meals and sit in the dining room chair. This leads to a feeling of dignity, sitting up properly for digestion, and starting the habit of looking forward to this social event each day.
  4. Allowing the senior to participate in their food choices is another great idea to increase seniors’ appetite. In senior living communities, we often see gardens that the residents tend to, and the chef takes the harvest from those gardens and creates a “farm to table” eating environment. One community in Chicagoland has a very large garden that a family member created, so that all of the fruits and vegetables could come from the garden to the dining room table. In communities, you often see demonstration kitchens as well. As part of the activities programming, a recipe given to the staff by a resident can be made in front of the participants, even with their assistance, and everyone gets to try the finished product. Residents may also like to participate in things such as bake sales, potlucks, and other cooking classes as part of the activities program.
  5. In several senior living communities, I have seen Fiesta Ware which are plates that are very brightly colored. This helps the residents see the food on the plate by having such a bold color to contrast in the background. We often hear the term to “eat the rainbow”, and in increasing appetite in elderly, the brightly colored foods are the best for them to visually see, but also the most nutritious. It’s a good idea to separate the foods on the plate too so that the senior can distinctly tell the difference between food items. Most communities change the menu daily which is good for variety. We also see now some communities are identifying various food items on the menu as gluten free, low salt, or heart healthy which is a great tool for the resident to use in order to follow a healthy diet.
  6. Hydration stations are a permanent staple in senior living communities these days. You walk in and see large water dispensers usually with cut up fruit inside such as strawberries or pineapples. It’s imperative that seniors stay hydrated, and this helps with overall digestion and regularity. Fruit juices and water are best to keep hydrated.
  7. Making dining a nice, calming experience with soft music and quiet voices will help residents to want to stay and enjoy the experience of eating. If the environment is too loud and rushed, the resident will not want to stay, may become agitated, and won’t finish their meal. Creating a pleasant environment around the dining experience will aid in the resident wanting to stay and enjoy their meal.
  8. If all else fails in helping the senior to increase their appetite, an appointment to the doctor may be necessary to prescribe an appetite stimulant. Remember that using appetite stimulant for elderly must be treated as a last resort when other means appeared to be failing.

However, in my twenty three years of working in senior living communities, I can’t tell you how many times a family member has mentioned the weight gain in their senior loved one! This is good to hear after the weight loss we often hear about when the senior was living alone at home. Eating and socialization go hand in hand. We all need to feel socialization on a daily basis, and for seniors, that is their three meals a day enjoyed with new friends and neighbors.

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Where did this Medicare Myth come from?

It seems to me that someone, somewhere once thought that Medicare pays for everything. I think now that more and more people are on Medicare we are finding out that it does not. Medicare is HEALTH INSURANCE. Often times I have to explain to children of elderly parents that Medicare is NOT going to pay for their long term care needs. Medicare will not pay for room and board or care at an assisted living community. In fact, it will only pay for a limited number of days at a skilled nursing home upon discharge from the hospital. Then, the patient, should the decide to stay, needs to pay "out of pocket."

Its just like the health insurance that we have. It will pay for doctors visits and medication to some extent, but if we got laid up in a nursing home, and had to stay it would not pay after a certain number of days. Heck, the insurance companies have new mothers out of the hospital the day after birth because they don't want to pay for the "room and board."

But let me back up. Medicare is health insurance for people age 65 or older. You apply for it. And you pay for it, just like you pay a monthly premium for the health insurance you get through your job.

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Make Your Healthcare Choices Known

Northwestern Hospital Patient Education is hosting a no charge seminar about making your healthcare choices known.

Advance directives provide information about your medical care choices if you are unable to communicate.  Kathy Johnson Neely, MD, chair of Northwestern Memorial Hospital's Medical Ethics Committee and associate professor of Medicine at Norhtwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine, will discuss advance directives recognized by Illinois state law.

Wednesday, July 25th 5:30  to 6:30 pm
Friday, July 27th 11am- noon

Call 312-926-8400 to register and for directions and location!

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Robotic pet therapy for Dementia Patients in long-term care

Dementia care in the Chicago area makes the case for robotic pet therapy among consumers studied. The benefits mimic those of conventional pet therapy models, but with added conveniences and applications. Studies have shown that animal-assisted therapy has distinct and significant benefits for seniors, including those struggling with dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. The obstacle to access to the therapeutic advantages of a pet may be the individual’s ability- and environment- to care for a live animal. New research suggests that robot-assisted therapy is an effective and practical alternative, manifesting in robotic pets for seniors with dementia.Talk to your provider about how to implement animal-assisted treatment into your senior’s life, or to learn more about robotic pet therapy. Don’t have a provider? Contact Senior Living Experts for practitioners in the region.

The case for robotic pet therapy:

A case can be made for animal-assisted treatment models, so why not robot-assisted therapy? This trend emerged from Japan with the manufacture and dissemination of a robotic seal called “Paro”, which was designed to provide comfort and companionship for elderly individuals that may not be in a position to care for a live pet. Great care went into the design of this robotic pet to make it consumer-friendly, including how it looks and how it responds to stimuli, i.e. being petted, held, or spoken to.Take a look at some of the benefits of pet therapy- including robotic options:

Companionship

Loneliness can come with dementia, and pets seem to be a source of great joy- especially for seniors that lack social interactions. Since aphasia is another symptom of this debilitating condition, many seniors may become isolated and non-communicative; interacting with a pet can counter this tendency. Furthermore, as symptoms worsen, some seniors with dementia may not respond well to a lot of stimulation, such as visits and gatherings, which makes a pet a viable way to provide comfort and companionship.

Engagement

It is reported that seniors with dementia establish close bonds with their robotic pet, and its impacts may also ripple to those seniors, family, and caregivers around them. A pet- robotic or otherwise- can provide a topic of conversation and commonality among seniors living in communal settings or assisted-living type residences. A study once demonstrated how seniors living in a VA home seems more engaging and social when visiting the on-site aviary, using the birds as a common topic of conversation. Engaging with others is something that shouldn’t be minimized when looking at therapeutic interventions with dementia patients, as the ability to socialize and tolerate being around other people may wane as symptoms increase and the condition progresses.

Relaxation

Sitting with and petting an animal- including a robotic one- decreases anxiety and agitation, which can be a frequent symptom among dementia patients. It has been measured and established that spending time with companion animals can lower blood pressure and improve overall mood. Furthermore, animals of any kind can provide something for seniors with dementia to focus on. A pet can provide a distraction for dementia patients that are confused, forgetful, or searching for the right words. Instead of fidgeting and constantly moving about, many agitated seniors are able to self-soothe by stroking a pet and reduce signs of anxiety and nervousness.

Purpose

Taking care of a pet combats passivity and gives seniors the opportunity to be a caregiver for someone- or something- else. This purpose also can help many with the motivation and drive each day needed to live with dementia. Tending a live animal may prove overwhelming for many who live alone, but this doesn’t diminish the yearning for a task and reason to get out of bed; a robotic pet- based on the studies that reinforce the potential bond- could fill this void in a more practical and prudent way.Japanese techies have paved the way for social robotics in this country, with a very promising future in additional medical applications. Consider investing in a robotic pet for your loved one with signs of agitation, anxiety, depression, or confusion, and provide a means of comfort and companionship that can be compared to the benefits of a live pet. The option of having a robotic pet may increase access for seniors, which can improve outcomes and prognoses overall.

Dementia care in the Chicago area:

Caregivers in Chicago face distinct challenges when working with seniors exhibiting dementia or symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. Access alternative resources- such as robotic pet therapy- to combat the debilitating effects and to improve the overall quality of life.Do you need a provider to learn more about accessing animal-assisted treatment? Senior Living Experts can help you tease-out practitioners and experts in the area. Robotic pets show promise as another tool to help combat the debilitating symptoms of dementia in seniors, which makes it prudent and vital for caregivers widely.

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7 Top Safety Hazards in Assisted Living Facilities

Resident safety in assisted living is one of the top reasons for moving to an assisted living facility.

7 Top Safety Hazards in Assisted Living

It's important to ensure resident safety in assisted living and if you are looking for an assisted living facility this should be one of the most important areas to look at during visits. Here are seven common safety hazards found in assisted living facilities:

  1. Insufficient Lighting - Poor lighting can result in falls, bumps, and becoming disoriented. It's not uncommon for older assisted living facilities to utilize older lighting; fluorescent tube is commonly used and offers poor lighting to see well. Be aware of the lighting conditions in the facilities you're looking into.
  2. Medication Mess Ups - The sheer number of medications that pass through a facility in one day can boggle the mind; so it's no surprise that medication mix ups is one of the problems with safety in assisted living facilities. Ask how medication is handled and distributed regularly in the facility you are thinking about moving into.
  3. Cluttered Walking Areas - It's important to have unobstructed walkways at all times; however, when working with a number of residents you can run into hallway/walkway clutter. Notice if there are walkers, unused wheelchairs, carts, or other objects throughout the facility.
  4. Old/Unsafe Flooring - Because of the wear and tear that floors see in many facilities you may find worn carpeting and flooring. Torn, frazzled rugs and flooring that is cracked or missing can cause falls; especially for those that are already a fall risk.
  5. Inadequate Security - One of the main reasons for moving to an assisted living facility is most likely for better safety and security; especially for dementia patients. Be certain that there are a number of security factors in place; including cameras, secure entry, and 24 hour monitoring.
  6. Insufficient/No Alert Systems - Make sure there are alert systems that area easily available for residents to quickly push a button to get help. This can include the common necklace/arm safety buttons but should also include alert systems inside other areas of the residency that can call a nurse/aid too.
  7. Lack of Health & Safety Programs - Being proactive is one of the best ways to help ensure safety. Falls Free and safety classes that help create stronger, more balanced walking are one of the best ways to be proactive. Not only does it help to create a safer environment by reducing the risk of falls but it helps promote activity and social interaction.

The Importance of Resident Safety in Assisted Living Facilities

There are a number of safety factors to keep in mind when looking into assisted living facilities and while you can never guarantee that accidents, slips and falls won't happen you can minimize the risks. In the Chicago area, Senior Living Experts can help you find safety in assisted living facilities so you have peace of mind.

photo by geralt / Pixabay

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What is Aphasia? 5 Benefits of Assisted Living Facilities Dealing With Aphasia

Among language disorders, Aphasia is among the most common, affecting approximately two-million people in the US, with around 180,000 people diagnosed annually. Aphasia has climbed above Parkinson’s disease in terms of prevalence. While many may think that aphasia is simply a sign of getting old or a symptom of dementia, it strikes young and old, in debilitating ways. Senior Living Experts can help navigate the challenges of a loved one living with aphasia.

What is Aphasia?

It is estimated that around one-million people in the United States suffer from Aphasia. Aphasia is a condition that impacts communication and that results from damage to specific parts of the brain, often caused by a stroke, brain injury, neurological issue, brain tumors, or dementia. Aphasia manifests in issues speaking, comprehending, reading, and writing, but it does not cause cognitive damage.Some signs of aphasia include:

  • Slowed speech.
  • Struggle to find the right words.
  • Difficulty understanding familiar words.
  • Inability to recall names of familiar people.
  • Using one word for another; substitution.
  • Difficulty following conversations.

Five benefits of assisted living facilities in the South Suburbs when dealing with aphasia are:

1. Engagement.

Language barriers may be the first notable signs of aphasia and can lead to isolative behaviors and withdrawal among those struggling with aphasia. Individuals may feel embarrassed or confused, which can lead to depression and mood disorders. Engaging with others and conversing is the most effective way to bridge these communication barriers.Some ways to narrow the gap during conversations with people that have aphasia include:

  • Ask closed-ended questions with simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answers.
  • Take time to repeat and reiterate during a conversation.
  • Tailor your words during conversations to minimize and simplify sentiments.
  • Use gestures and body language to emphasize a point.
  • Indicate what you will discuss when starting a conversation.

These tactics can make interacting less uncomfortable for those with aphasia, and may also encourage them to engage more frequently.

2. Assessment.

Assessment and evaluation are further vital elements of assisted-living or residential care. There are different types of aphasia, and in some instances, it could be merely a symptom of a serious, underlying medical condition. Dementia-related aphasia can be paired with other limitations and markers that will require assisted care over time, as this decline may be gradual.When aphasia is caused by traumatic brain injury (TBI), there may be other problems with cognition, including confusion. Depending on the extent of the injury, assisted-living may be able to provide the tools necessary for recovery and rehabilitative support. Some aphasia is temporary, resulting from seizures, injuries, severe infection, or even migraine headache! With so many variables, assessment and ongoing evaluation is a benefit of assisted living in the region to determine the least-restrictive level or care and to provide the support needed to thrive.

3. Expertise.

Another inherent benefit of assisted living is the access to available resources, including therapists and speech-language specialists. These professionals can work one-on-one with aphasia patients to increase speaking ability and to sharpen communication skills.These experts utilize some tips to make conversing easier for someone with aphasia:

  • Help patients communicate easier with the use of props.
  • Write or draw to help convey a message.
  • Relax and speak slowly.
  • Keep a card in the patient’s wallet alerting others to the fact that they have aphasia.

4. Environment.

The environment plays a large role in supporting aphasia patients, too. It is important for individuals to socialize- despite that it may be uncomfortable- and practice conversation with people that can be trusted. Losing the gift of speech can dramatically impact a person’s social life and well-being, and the most effective means of treating aphasia is through conversation and socialization. In fact, providers suggest expediting recovery from a stroke by socializing as soon as possible. An assisted living residence provides a setting that fosters socialization and that forges trusting rapports with others- the foundation for treatment and recovery.

5. Support.

assisted living facilities will have access to supports that can also aid in recovery from aphasia. These resources may be more focused on getting the aphasia patient out into the community and to foster a sense of solidarity and connection with other people. Often times, those with language barriers feel a sense of isolation and being alone; becoming a part of a greater community can provide a sense of purpose and belonging that is key in recovery.Foster community involvement by supporting participation in these outings and activities:

  • Church events or spiritual retreats.
  • Social gatherings or parties.
  • Volunteer opportunities.
  • Work or vocational activities.
  • Leisure interest groups.
  • Area support groups.

Assisted living facilities have a lot to offer aphasia patients, and these may be the best setting for those recovering from this condition. The on-site resources make it feasible to obtain services that may not be readily available for individuals living independently. Whether recuperating from temporary aphasia caused by an injury or dealing with the communication deterioration from dementia, Senior Living Experts in the South Suburbs area know how to deal with aphasia and provide a therapeutic setting for those struggling with language barriers.

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What is the Role of a Geriatric Care Manager?

A professional geriatric care manager in assisted living facilities is an invaluable member of a treatment team, well-versed and educated in various fields of human services, including social work, psychology, nursing, and human development, more specifically, aging. Don’t underestimate the value of these holistic practitioners and the invaluable role that they play in supporting seniors in assisted living facilities, under their charge in and around Hinsdale.  

Some important skills that a geriatric care manager brings to assisted living settings include:

Eclectic expertise.

Geriatric care managers bring a breadth of education and a fresh, holistic approach to healthcare for the senior clients that they serve. Most of these professionals have their Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) or Public Health Administration (MPH), which are both eclectic curriculums involving practical work experience and experiential learning. Some of the courses found in these programs include psychology, human development, sociology, and communication- all which find their way into assisted living facilities daily.

Assessment skills.

When a client moves in or out of an assisted living facility- or other type of residential setting- an assessment is completed. In this case, it is often completed by a geriatric care manager who has been able to observe progress notes, ADLs (activities of daily living), and the client on a regular basis. Admissions, transfers, and discharges are typically contingent on an accurate and insightful assessment done by a seasoned practitioner.

Problem solving.

Even the best-laid plans don’t always manifest as one would hope, which makes practical problem-solving skills integral. Being able to plan, and re-plan, for situations that arise in the senior’s situation is important in an effort to move clients forward in their care, treatment, or toward goals, such as autonomy or independent living. Planning and making accommodations for unexpected circumstances makes the geriatric care manager a bit of a magician, pulling something out of their sleeve when necessary.

Care coordination.

Care coordination is key in order to maintain services, line-up resources, and maintain communication with both formal and informal supports. Geriatric care managers often act as a go-between, voicing the wishes of the client and assisting families struggling to meet the needs of their elderly loved ones. This could include tasks such as lining up transportation to a medical appointment, taking the senior on a social outing, or facilitating a family meeting to discuss current levels of care.

Stress management.

Another pertinent charge of the geriatric care manager in an assisted living situation is to monitor and support the seniors served, which may include managing stress of the client, as well as those closest to them. Many things can cause stress among those that care about the aging parent or loved one, including change of providers, lack of resources, limited access, or simply the aging process, in general. A care manager can help to provide insight, offer practical solutions, and brainstorm coping strategies to move past and go forward.

Networking.

It’s a big world out there; think of the geriatric care manager as a navigator, of sorts, helping clients and their families traverse through resources, providers, and supports to find what is needed to help the senior thrive. Many areas have limited access to things that are needed, such as transportation or medical treatment and an effective care manager will be able to network and find what is needed, whenever possible, getting the necessary referrals and documentation to make it viable. This takes a lot of pressure off the client, as well as their loved ones, instilling a familial relationship rather than one of caregiver.

Ardent advocacy.

Another important duty of a geriatric care manager in assisted living facilities is advocacy, both on personal and community levels. This practitioner builds a trusting rapport with the client by advocating and vocalizing the consumer’s wishes and preferences; this same professional may advocate for legislation that protects the elderly from exploitation or abuse. Becoming an ardent advocate requires knowledge of the social issues facing seniors, as well as the available options, resources, and supports to help these individuals thrive and prosper as they age. Above all, the care manager stands behind the client, making choices in the consumer’s best interests, treating them with respect and honoring the senior’s autonomy above all else.Geriatric care managers in assisted living facilities, including those in Hinsdale, are an invaluable member of a holistic team, dedicated to supporting and improving the life of the elderly. These practitioners wear many hats and serve as a liaison between the client, family, providers, and area resources; as such, these professionals are integral to effective care coordination for the seniors in their charge.

What is a Geriatric Social Work Specialist?

A Geriatric Social Work Specialist is an important piece of the senior care puzzle and especially helpful when utilized in assisted living facilities. They are licensed by the Department of Health in the state in which they work.

  • Education – The level of education needed may vary according to state and/or facility but a minimum of having a Bachelor’s Degree. They are specialized in working with the many facets of aging.
  • Team Skills – The Geriatric Social Work Specialist learns a specific set of skills that will compliment others in the facility working with the residents. These skills generally help the staff, healthcare advisers, healthcare workers, residents and family all “get on the same page” so to speak; ensuring that the overall care of the resident is being addressed.
  • Specialized Training – As a Geriatric Social Work Specialist they are trained specifically to work with those 65 and over, and/or those who may have dementia, Alzheimer’s and other health issues specific to aging. Another area they may specialize in can include mental health; which also encompasses dementia care but can include senior depression and more.
  • Continuing Aging Issues – They are specially trained in working with issues of aging which can include:
  • Counseling
  • Transitioning from Long-Term Care to Hospice (if needed)
  • Liaison between client, family, facility, and healthcare specialists
  • Paperwork/Filing – As you may know, there is usually a lot of confusing paperwork that goes with everything involving aging and taking part in many programs offered. Your Geriatric Social Worker is well versed and usually quite experienced in what forms need filled out and how to fill them out in order to most likely to be accepted the first time through the system.
  • Resources – These specially trained social workers can help direct you, your loved one, and your family to valuable resources that may be needed throughout the aging process.
  • Counseling – There are a number of areas that can require geriatric counseling during aging. Counseling can begin with the resident to the family and even include any communication with the staff so that everyone is informed.
  • Hospice – There are times when one moves through assisted living care to hospice care in a fairly short time. During times like these the Geriatric Social Worker can help with obtaining hospice care, funeral preparation, and direction for legal issues.

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Cataract Facts: June National Cataract Awareness Month 2018

June is National Cataract Awareness Month. Cataract is a common eye problem among those who are aging.

The Facts - Cataract Awareness

  • Leading Cause of Blindness - Cataracts are a leading cause of blindness in America.
  • Early Detection & Treatment - Early detection and treatment of cataract increases the probability of successful vision as you move forward with a healthy approach.
  • 24 Million - There are approximately 24 million American's over the age of 40, who are affected by cataracts
  • Blindness - If cataract is left unattended it can result in blindness of the eye(s) affected.
  • Regular Checkups - Because cataract can progress slowly, the change in vision is often not noticed by the person affected; another reason it's important to get regular eye check-ups to keep a watch for changes and in particular the build up of cataracts in both or one eye.
  • Not Just For Seniors - While cataracts are more common among seniors, they can affect children, young adults, and adults. Most seniors cataract is an "Age Related Cataract" as opposed to those who may get cataract from a hereditary disease, as a side effect of a chronic disease, and other possible ways in which age is not necessarily a factor.

Reduce the Risk of Cataract

While there is no proven way for those who have age related cataract, there are certain lifestyles that can help deter eye problems and diseases. Like most every disease and health issue known to mankind, an overall healthy lifestyle helps to deter problems as we age.

Tips for Good Eye Health & Cataract Awareness

  1. Eat the Right Foods - There are certain foods that are known to help prevent eye disease and provide optimum eye health via nutrition.
  2. Do Not Smoke - Smoking is known risk for cataract; with smokers being twice as likely to form cataracts and the more they smoke the higher their risk. However, stopping smoking can reduce your risk of cataract nearly to the point that it would be as a non-smoker of the same age.
  3. UV Rays - Studies (see cited works) state that ultra-violet rays are associated with cataract growth and eye damage. Protect your eyes with UVA & UVB sun blocking glasses and a hat to keep the rays from causing damage to your eyes.
  4. Regular Eye Checks - It is extremely important to have an annual eye exam; more often if you have certain diseases or ongoing medical issues that warrant more frequent check-ups. Prevent Blindness America can help you find free screenings for eye exams in your area (21 states & DC).
  5. Free Cataract Surgery - Mission Cataract USA offers free cataract eye surgery for those who qualify. You can visit their website here or give them a call (800-343-7265).

Senior Living Experts wants to make sure that you are well versed on cataract awareness in order to make your world healthier and even better to see as you age.Cited Works:American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO)Photo by TobiasD / PixabayYour Sight Matters WebsiteCDC

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Loss of Appetite In The Elderly: Tricks To Stimulate It

A lack of appetite in seniors at home or in senior communities is so very common. For our loved ones in quarantine, it happens even more often, and is sometimes linked to depression. Often, we tell our families to watch the inside of the refrigerator as you visit your senior loved one to be sure they are eating properly. Is the food still there from the previous days? Is there trash in the trash bin? These are signs to look for to be sure your senior is eating properly. Just as it’s normal to see a decreased appetite in seniors at this stage in their lives, it’s also now that they need healthy nutrition the most.

How To Increase Appetite in Seniors

Although there’s no treatment for loss of appetite in elderly, but there are some tricks that can help you to answer the question: "How do I get an elderly person to eat?’ According to Countrywide Healthcare, follow these tips to help your senior eat proper meals:

  1. Make sure there are no oral problems in your senior such as mouth sores, or difficulty in swallowing. We often hear from our clients that they prefer softer foods because they are easier on the mouth, swallowing, and digestion as well. Seeing the dentist for an overall oral exam would be a good place to start.
  2. Keeping on a routine with eating is important. As we age, we don’t experience the same physiological motivation to want to eat, which can result in loss of appetite in elderly, so if we create a routine to follow, the senior will experience more regularity and the caregiver can easily keep track of what the senior is eating on a daily basis.
  3. In senior living communities, dining is a great form of socialization for the seniors. It’s an event! When we are alone, especially eating alone, this is cause for isolation and depression. Eating in a group leads to conversation and togetherness. We also see in communities that residents who use assisted walking devices to get around, whether it be a wheelchair or walker, park those aside during meals and sit in the dining room chair. This leads to a feeling of dignity, sitting up properly for digestion, and starting the habit of looking forward to this social event each day.
  4. Allowing the senior to participate in their food choices is another great idea to increase seniors’ appetite. In senior living communities, we often see gardens that the residents tend to, and the chef takes the harvest from those gardens and creates a “farm to table” eating environment. One community in Chicagoland has a very large garden that a family member created, so that all of the fruits and vegetables could come from the garden to the dining room table. In communities, you often see demonstration kitchens as well. As part of the activities programming, a recipe given to the staff by a resident can be made in front of the participants, even with their assistance, and everyone gets to try the finished product. Residents may also like to participate in things such as bake sales, potlucks, and other cooking classes as part of the activities program.
  5. In several senior living communities, I have seen Fiesta Ware which are plates that are very brightly colored. This helps the residents see the food on the plate by having such a bold color to contrast in the background. We often hear the term to “eat the rainbow”, and in increasing appetite in elderly, the brightly colored foods are the best for them to visually see, but also the most nutritious. It’s a good idea to separate the foods on the plate too so that the senior can distinctly tell the difference between food items. Most communities change the menu daily which is good for variety. We also see now some communities are identifying various food items on the menu as gluten free, low salt, or heart healthy which is a great tool for the resident to use in order to follow a healthy diet.
  6. Hydration stations are a permanent staple in senior living communities these days. You walk in and see large water dispensers usually with cut up fruit inside such as strawberries or pineapples. It’s imperative that seniors stay hydrated, and this helps with overall digestion and regularity. Fruit juices and water are best to keep hydrated.
  7. Making dining a nice, calming experience with soft music and quiet voices will help residents to want to stay and enjoy the experience of eating. If the environment is too loud and rushed, the resident will not want to stay, may become agitated, and won’t finish their meal. Creating a pleasant environment around the dining experience will aid in the resident wanting to stay and enjoy their meal.
  8. If all else fails in helping the senior to increase their appetite, an appointment to the doctor may be necessary to prescribe an appetite stimulant. Remember that using appetite stimulant for elderly must be treated as a last resort when other means appeared to be failing.

In our more than 85 combined years of working in and with senior living communities, we can’t tell you how many times a family member has mentioned the weight gain in their senior loved one! This is good to hear after the weight loss we often hear about when the senior was living alone at home. Eating and socialization go hand in hand. We all need to feel socialization on a daily basis, and for seniors, that is their three meals a day enjoyed with new friends and neighbors.

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Study Shows Fish in the Diet Slashes Dementia (This does not bode well for me…)

Yesterday I read an article in the paper about a study done at Tufts University in Boston. It found that if you have a high level of DHA, a fatty acid found in fish, it reduces your risk of dementia by about half.   It went on to say that those in the study that had the highest levels of DHA (or docosahexaenoic acid, and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid in case you were wondering) consumed fish two or three times a week.

I can’t stand fish.  And if I do eat it, maybe two or three times a year it coated in beer batter and deep-fried.  So the cooking process has to out weigh any benefits the fish might have given me!

Dr. Ernst J. Schaefer, the lead researcher for the study thinks the same benefit can be realized by taking a fish-oil supplement but that requires more study.  So I guess in the meantime, I am going to try to find the non-fishiest fish-oil supplements I can!

Photo by Karolina Grabowska from Pexels



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November Is National Family Caregivers Month: Facts Caregivers Should Know

Every November our nation takes the time to recognize and appreciate the continuous work provided by family members for Family Caregivers Appreciation Month. This year’s theme is “Take Care to Give Care” and focuses on caregivers making sure they learn how to keep themselves well while attending to their loved ones. Senior Living Experts wants to share in saying "thank you" to those who have given so much as unpaid caregivers.

Why Family Caregivers Appreciation is Important

The fact of the matter is that caregiving is a full time job that, as a family member who steps up to the plate, can often feel like nobody notices. Choosing an assisted living option is one of the best ways to keep from caregiver burnout as the sole provider of care for your loved one.Here are some facts about family caregivers that may boggle your mind...

Family Caregivers by the Numbers

Many of these numbers are provided by this 2015, stand-alone research report provided by the AARP and National Alliance for Caregiving.

  • Nearly one-third of the nation is comprised of family caregivers (approximately 29%)
  • More than 65 million people are unpaid caregivers according to the Caregiver Action Network statistics page
  • Children are also caregivers, with 4 million children helping with the care of a family member
  • The average total hours of care provided is 24.4 hours per week in 2015; while 23% provide 41 plus hours a week
  • Spouses are affected the most time-wise; providing an average of 44.6 hours of care per week for their husband/wife
  • Nursing tasks are becoming an increasingly difficult necessity for family caregivers with 57% taking on the tasks typically provided by skilled nurses

Finding the Right Senior Living Can Help Family Caregivers

It is important to recognize that those providing the majority of unpaid caregiving for their loved ones need a break. Because the focus on this year’s National Family Caregivers Appreciation Month is “Take Care to Give Care” we want you to understand how Senior Living Experts can help make your life as a family caregiver easier.

  • Help with ADLs – Living in the right senior living facility can help with providing help with Activities of Daily L Family caregivers who remain in their homes without seeking some type of help will have to provide assistance/care for more than 50% of the typical ADLs for their loved one.
  • Focus on the CaregiverThis article in the Chicago Tribune talks about how taking care of themselves helps caregivers of stroke patients live a happier life. It’s safe to say that this focus on the caregiver applies to all family caregivers being happier when they make sure that their own needs are being taken care of also. This is one reason why finding the right senior living facility can be extremely helpful to ensuring that the main caregiving needs are handled by a staff; leaving the family caregiver time to spend enjoying life’s moments instead.
  • Family Stress – Finding the right senior living housing is imperative to reducing family stress. If you have the right living situation to provide care for your loved one, you will be less stress. You will also be less inclined to feel obligated to make daily visits to care for your aging parent(s) and let the senior living place of choice do their job.
  • Safety – Providing senior living facilities that are designed to provide safer conditions will help you rest easier as an unpaid caregiver to your loved one. Knowing that they are in an area designed to address the specific needs of aging and safety will reduce everyone’s stress.
  • Financial Stresses – The economic stresses of family caregiving can become overwhelming. Choosing senior living that is affordable for your specific budget can reduce the constant financial stresses you will be faced with while trying to provide in-home caregiving yourself.
  • Trained Care – As mentioned earlier, many family caregivers are being forced to perform tasks that are typically associated with having skilled nurses or trained professionals perform. These tasks can include dealing with incontinence and adult diapers, proper bathing, dispensing medications, transporting and more.

When Seniors Care for Seniors

Senior caregivers tend to be less likely to have the help of other caregivers; especially trained, paid, professional caregivers.

  1. It taxes the health of both seniors & can result in risky conditions.
  2. It can become financially overwhelming.
  3. Seniors will often not ask for help because of pride.
  4. Spouses may try to hide conditions of their spouse for fear of them being torn apart (this can be addressed with certain options of senior living).
  5. Staying “at home” is not always the right choice or the best choice; but, finding the “right home” can be!

Senior Living Experts understands how important it is for family caregivers to feel comfortable with the choices they make for their loved ones. We are here to help not only honor them during Family Caregivers Appreciation Month but to help them find the best options in taking care of themselves and their loved ones.Photo by katrena (Pixabay)

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The Importance of Staff-to-Resident Ratios

Placing a loved one is already a difficult task considering they are going to a place you are not familiar with yet. To help ease this discomfort, it is important to look into the staff-to-resident ratio. This number determines how many employees are taking care of a resident at a particular time.

What Does This Mean?

In senior living, residents are placed into various levels of care depending on their personal care needs. Some residents need very little assistance during a 24-hour period, or they may only need bathing assistance a couple of times a week. Whereas, other residents may need multiple staff interactions per day for their care needs. The staffing ratios in a senior living community are based on how many residents are in each particular level of care.

If the majority of residents are in a high level of care offered by the senior living community, the staffing ratio will be higher. However, if the majority are in low levels of care, the ratios are adjusted to meet the needs of the residents.

Make sure that while you are looking at the staff-to-resident ratio, you only account for the staff that will provide personal care assistance to your loved one. It’s only direct care staff that you should be asking about, for example, nurses and Certified Nursing Assistants.

It’s important to ask if there is 24-hour nursing in a senior living community because a qualified medical staff member can determine if a resident concern is emergent or if it only requires a call to the doctor. The nurse determines if it is an emergency or not. Our goal is to avoid unnecessary hospitalizations for seniors, and having a nurse 24/7 gives you more of a chance to avoid that hospitalization.

The staff-to-resident is significant, as it determines how much personalized care a resident will receive. There will be someone there to take care of emergencies, health complications, and increase the frequency of social interactions. The staff is also there to create relationships with the residents and make sure they are socializing daily.

Visiting a Senior Living Community

It may be a good idea to visit the community to get a feel for the staff-to-resident ratio. An important factor to consider while visiting a community is the time that you choose to go, as the number of employees on staff differs throughout the day. Have the director of sales and marketing at the community explain how the staffing ratios work so that you feel comfortable.

The Importance of Timing

In a residential apartment, there are several emergency pull cord locations. A resident can use the pull cord when they need assistance. However, the assessment done by the nursing staff prior to a resident having moved in hopefully will have anticipated a resident’s needs throughout the day. For example, if a resident typically uses the bathroom at various times a day, the goal of the staff would be to assist the resident prior to them having to even use the pull cord.

Locate the evening staff-to-resident ratio as well. Typically, through the night, the residents don’t need as much hands-on care so the ratio is lower.

An appropriate amount of staff, based on the levels of care in the entire community, will ensure that any unforeseen emergencies are taken care of swiftly. The staff will accommodate resident needs which also includes socialization and keeping the residents happy and healthy.

Keep in mind that activities staff, therapy staff members, dining staff and administrators all take part in a resident’s day as well.

We Can Help!

Senior Living Experts is here to help you determine which communities are the best fit for your loved one. We can help you break down the staff-to-resident ratio to ensure that you have a good stance on how your loved one will be taken care of in their new home.

Give us a call at 773-302-2015 to contact one of our advisors. They will be here to help you with your search!

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National Influenza Vaccination Week

National Influenza Vaccination Week occurs December 4-10, 2016. Senior Living Experts would like to take the time to remind you how important it is to get your flu vaccine.

Q&A’s About National Influenza Vaccination Week

Remember, those who live in senior living facilities or work with seniors should always be vaccinated. If you have a loved one living in an assisted living facility, make it a point to get vaccinated yourself. Getting vaccinated will help you be able to stay connected with them throughout the holidays and flu season; reducing your risk of getting the flu.Q. Who Should Get the Flu Vaccine? A. Everyone! – It may sound like a broken record each year but the truth of the matter is that there are very few people who shouldn’t get the flu shot. The CDC offers these recommendations for the small amount of people who shouldn’t be vaccinated:

  • Infants (anyone under 6 months)
  • Those with egg allergies (in some cases)
  • Anyone who has or had GBS (Guillain-Barré Syndrome)
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to the vaccine

Q. They say “high-risk people” should be sure to get the shot. What qualifies a person as “high-risk?” A. The CDC lists high risk people who should be certain to get vaccinated here. This list includes:

  • Anyone 65 and older
  • Those with certain chronic health issues; including any auto-immune disease, heart health issues, those who live in long-term care facilities, those with chronic health issues, diabetics and more. Click the link above to see a more comprehensive listing.
  • Anyone who works in the health care field

Q. Where can I get the flu vaccine? A. Your doctor is the best option for getting your flu shot; however, you can find where shots are being given throughout your town via the flu finder box below.

5 Flu Facts

  1. You can spread the flu virus easily – One of the main reasons for National Influenza Vaccination Week is to remind us not only to get our flu shot; but, to remind us how easy it is to get the flu. You can spread the flu to others up to 6 feet away when you sneeze and cough!
  2. Even healthy, young people can get the flu – Many think that because we focus on seniors getting their flu shots each year that this means a young, healthy immune system won’t get the flu. Anyone, any age, and in any physical shape can get the flu.
  3. There are ways to reduce your risk of getting the flu – While getting your flu shot is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of getting and spreading the flu; there are other ways to help reduce your risk. This free online poster from the CDC helps remind you how to reduce your risks.
  4. You don’t have to have symptoms to spread the flu – You can spread the flu virus starting 1 day before you begin to experience symptoms. This is one reason why the virus spreads so quickly; because even if you try to stay away from others before you’re “sick” you may already have the virus.
  5. Symptoms of the flu – People often ask what the difference is between the flu and a bad cold. This article on “Is it a cold or the flu?” will help you determine if your symptoms are most likely influenza.

Will You Stay Flu Free?

Senior Living Experts hopes that you can stay flu free this season! Take National Influenza Vaccination Week as a reminder of how important it is to stay healthy & flu free!Photo by William Brawley

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The Importance of Hand Washing for Seniors

In December the CDC, along with the health care industry, brings awareness to the importance of hand washing as a way to decrease your risk for getting sick. Senior Living Experts wants to remind you of the importance of clean hands for both you and those you are in contact with daily.

Hand Washing is Important to Those in senior living facilities

No matter what type of senior living facility you may live in, it's important that everyone there be aware of the importance of washing their hands regularly. Seniors' immune systems weaken with age; even if you are otherwise healthy and live a healthy lifestyle.

  • Ask - Ask your caregiver and senior living personnel to please wash their hands if they haven't done so. It's important that they practice washing their hands before and after touching you or common areas as a way to reduce spreading of germs.
  • Housekeeping - If you live in a senior care facility where you have housekeeping offered or done for you, ask them to be sure to clean the surfaces every time they come. This includes wiping all counters, cleaning floors, kitchen, and bathroom with a germ killing cleaner. This AARP article addresses all natural, germ killing cleaners and techniques.
  • Nature's Vaccine Companion - We recently discussed the importance of seniors being vaccinated for the flu and even pneumonia. However, combined with getting your vaccines that are recommended, washing your hands is the perfect companion to helping kill the germs that cause the flu, colds, stomach viruses, and respiratory viruses.
  • Dining/Eating - It's extremely important that the proper food preparation techniques are used when making your food. You should also always wash your hands before eating anything.

Proper Hand Hygiene

Whether you live in senior housing, are in a healthcare facility, or living at home with a caregiver to help you there are some basics they should know.

5 Moments for Hand Hygiene

When you are a part of a health care scenario it's important to understand the times when hand washing is most important. According to John Hopkins these are the 5 moments when it's important for seniors or anyone that lives in a healthcare facility of any type.

  1. When you enter the room (apartment) and when you leave
  2. Before and after using gloves
  3. Before and after touching any equipment (especially used equipment)
  4. After performing anything invasive or that involves bodily fluids
  5. Before and after transporting someone from one area to another

Using a hand sanitizer is not the same as properly washing your hands; however, it can be used when hand washing is not an option. This information about when and how to use hand sanitizer is very helpful.

Wash Your Hands Right

hand washing photo

There are some basic rules to follow when washing your hands. Use these techniques for the most effective way of killing germs.

According to the CDC this is the right way to wash your hands.

  1. Wet Your Hands - You can use warm or cold water. Wet your hands and apply soap. (This article from TIME Magazine discusses the newest findings on using anti-bacterial soap)
  2. Lather - Rub your hands together to lather them up. Be sure to lather the back of your hands, between your fingers and under your nails. (Use a nail brush to ensure you get under your nails for a good cleaning!)
  3. Scrub for 20 Seconds - Don't rush scrubbing your hands. Sing or hum "Happy Birthday" two times to make sure you scrub long enough.
  4. Rinse - Rinse your hands in running water with your fingers pointing downward for the final end of the rinsing. This technique helps to ensure that the soap and germs run off.
  5. Dry - Dry your hands with a paper towel, air drier, or use a clean hand towel. The Mayo Clinic published research that shows using disposable paper towels is the most sanitary way to dry your hands.

Senior Living Experts joins the nation this month as we recognize the importance of hand washing as another way to live a healthier lifestyle.

Photo 1 by red.raleigh

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Certified Dementia Practitioner Training coming to Chicago

The senior living advisors at Senior Living Experts in Chicago are all planning on attending an 8 hour education course created by the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners in July.We are looking forward to becoming even more educated on how to work with people with dementia and their families.Since it is such an amazing opportunity and the trainer is someone who was my first trainer when I entered the industry in 2003.  Rachelle Blough is an amazing wealth of knowledge and a great teacher.  So I thought I would spread the word about this class in case any of our colleagues in senior living in chicago would be interested in attending!Here are the details:Wednesday July 22nd 8:30-5:00pm there will be a 8 hour education course held in Lake Zurich , IL : ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE AND DEMENTIA CARE SEMINAR created by www.nccdp.orgThis course includes interactive sensitivity exercises, group discussion, video media, sharing of best practices and so much more.  This course makes the participants eligible to apply with the www.nccdp.org to become a Certified Dementia Practitioner within 30 days of the course and an application will be provided in this class. Facilitated by approved instructor : Rachelle Blough C.A.D.D.C.T , C.D.P, C.T.R.S.For further information on location and how to register & to secure attendance please visit www.rachelleblough.com.There is limited availability remaining. Approximately 10 spots. Rachelle's contact information is on her site should you have any specific questions for her.

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Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Are Not The Same Thing!

Mom is struggling at your childhood home, so you’ve started your senior living search. There are so many new terms- what do they all mean? Growing up, you had only heard of nursing homes and now you seem to be at a loss for what might be the best option for mom. This is a crucial decision as mom is so important to you and her quality of care and life are very surreal concerns of yours.

Why Do We Call Them Nursing Homes?

Since the mid 1980’s the senior care industry has become acutely aware of the needs of the aging, as they are dynamic and not one size fits all. An explosion occurred in the types of facilities that are offered to those searching for an assisted living solution. These options include hybrid, hospitality, housing, and health care. Since then, the options for assisted living have only become more and more abundant. This may sound overwhelming, but Senior Living Experts exist for this exact reason; we aim to best aid the aging population in all of Chicagoland, from, Barrington, to Schaumberg, to Highland Park.

Two Major Differences

Let's unpack and shed light on the different options available for senior living. First, let’s consider what the major differences are between assisted living and a nursing home:

  1. The services and care provided. For example, you may need a 24-hour nurse, or respiratory services.
  2. Physical structure that your loved one might live in. Different facilities have different price points.

It is very important to note that assisted living facilities have evolved over time to fit the needs of their patrons and to make them feel more at home. There are even senior care professionals and specific designers whose job is making sure that your loved ones are being heard, listened to, and cared for.

Lastly, remember: care is not one size fits all. There are options that have differing levels of care, differing communities, differing costs, different living cultures, and even have varied services such as memory care. In short, the options for assisted living are abundant and we are here to help you do your due diligence to make your loved one feel at home. Knowing even these basics will aid you in finding the best assisted living facility for someone you love.

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Mediterranean Diet for Seniors (Preventative Medicine by Food)

You may have seen a lot of information about the Mediterranean Diet in the news lately. Senior Living Experts is celebrating International Mediterranean Diet Month with the world as we learn about how this lifestyle could be the answer to preventing dementia and disease.

The Mediterranean Diet

Our services help Chicago seniors find the best fit for their living needs for living to age safely, healthy, and as well as possible. Part of our goal is trying to keep seniors living an active lifestyle and eating well.

  • Mediterranean Diet Foods – Common foods include fresh vegetables, fruit, healthy oils, and fish. It embraces the lifestyle common to most that live in the southern area of the Mediterranean (Greece, Morocco, Italy, Turkey & the Middle East).
  • The Beginnings – It wasn’t until 1993 that this type of eating became well known. It’s been an accepted, healthy option in the medical community since.
  • In the NewsNBC news recently focused on the fact that the diet being promotes brain health. Newest confirmations are that the diet can actually help deter normal shrinking of the brain as we age.
  • Fighting Against Degenerative Diseases – As we age our immune system weakens; leaving us more prone to various diseases. This article from The Sun discusses the most recent & updated information regarding how the diet may help stave off these diseases.

5 Basics of the Diet

  1. The Mediterranean Diet Food PyramidThis food pyramid visually explains the foods incorporated into this style of eating. Just like the original food pyramid created by the USDA the smaller, top area are items you eat less of and the larger bottom area indicates healthy options you want to include more of in your diet.
  2. It’s a Lifestyle – What we need to remember is that any “diet plan” that is worth looking into should encompass an entire lifestyle. Eating the foods on the plan is just a part of a lifestyle; as shown by the bottom row of the food pyramid. Being active and social is a large part of following the Mediterranean lifestyle.
  3. The Food – The diet is focused on heart healthy foods, high fiber foods, beans, fish, fresh fruits & vegetables, and even up to 40% of calories coming from healthy oils. Limited foods include sweets, processed foods, red meats, cheese, and no more than 4 eggs a week.
  4. Focus on Taste – There is a focus on creating amazing flavor in the recipes associated with the Mediterranean diet. Fresh herbs and healthy oils help to add delightful flavors to a variety of foods in recipes from wonderful places.
  5. The Health Benefits – Research and studies have proven the health benefits of following the diet. A small sample of the benefits include:
  6. Anti-Aging
  7. Heart Health
  8. Inflammation Reduction
  9. Age Related Diseases
  10. Brain Health
  11. Cancer Fighting
  12. High in Anti-Oxidants

Join Us in Eating for Your Health

Choose to make the changes needed to increase your chances of a longer, healthier life. You deserve to enjoy your life as you age and this could be the answer for many of you, at any age.The Mediterranean Diet lets you enjoy foods that can include helping you fight against some of the negative effects of aging while enjoying a variety of fast & easy recipes.

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Lets Give Thanks To Our Grandparents

Thanksgiving is one of those family holidays that always reminds me think of my grandmother.   For those of you who will have the honor of seeing one or more of your grandparents today – make it a point to spend a little extra time with them instead of watching football.  You will cherish those times and those conversations.  Ask them questions about their past.  Ask them how they used to celebrate Thanksgiving. What is their favorite Thanksgiving memory?  Do they have any special recipes that should be written down now?The first Thanksgiving after my grandmother died was very difficult.  I always wish I could have had one more.

Photo by Juan Pablo Serrano Arenas from Pexels


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What happens next?

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Discovery

Your expert advisor will accumulate information necessary for proper placement, such as your needs, location, and budget.

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Recommendations

We provide numerous recommendations based on the details provided. Our goal is to combine your needs with our knowledge of senior communities.

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Tours

Your advisor will accompany you on tours so your search can be as thorough as possible. We want what’s best for your loved ones just as much as you do.

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Follow-ups

After a choice has been made and your loved one has moved into their new home, we will continuously check in to make sure everything is going well.

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Together, let’s begin the journey to finding the home that will enhance the life of your family.

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