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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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 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!
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.
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:
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.
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.
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!
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Resident safety in assisted living is one of the top reasons for moving to an assisted living facility.
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:
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
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.
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:
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:
These tactics can make interacting less uncomfortable for those with aphasia, and may also encourage them to engage more frequently.
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.
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:
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
June is National Cataract Awareness Month. Cataract is a common eye problem among those who are aging.
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.
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
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.
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:
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.
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
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.
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...
Many of these numbers are provided by this 2015, stand-alone research report provided by the AARP and National Alliance for Caregiving.
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.
Senior caregivers tend to be less likely to have the help of other caregivers; especially trained, paid, professional caregivers.
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)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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:
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:
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
There are some basic rules to follow when washing your hands. Use these techniques for the most effective way of killing germs.
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
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Your expert advisor will accumulate information necessary for proper placement, such as your needs, location, and budget.
We provide numerous recommendations based on the details provided. Our goal is to combine your needs with our knowledge of senior communities.
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.
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.
Together, let’s begin the journey to finding the home that will enhance the life of your family.