Education

Supportive Living Facilities (SLF) are basically assisted living communities that are subsidized by the State of Illinois. The Department of Healthcare and Family Services oversees the program which provides services that are usually not covered by Medicaid including personal care needs, medication reminders, laundry assistance, activities, transportation, three meals a day, and outings. When a senior has around $100,000 or less in total assets, and they need supportive services on a daily basis (bathing, dressing, etc), this is a good time to think about Supportive Living as an option. SLF’s are typically around $4000 per month for all of the services listed above. The senior will privately pay their monthly rate, and once their assets are spent down to $2000, the State will take the seniors’ Social Security check, and leave the senior with $90 per month.The community will assist in applying for Medicaid on behalf of the senior. The senior does not change apartments. Simply, the way in which the care and support for the senior is funded is the only difference.Often, we encounter families who may choose to use home care services at home, or continue to have their senior loved one reside in a private pay senior living community, but our message to them is to NOT run out of funds before moving to a SLF. Some SLF’s want private pay funds for a certain amount of time before they will allow the senior to go on Medicaid once funds run out. If the funds are exhausted while using home care services at home, or while privately paying a senior living community that does not have Medicaid on the campus, you are running the risk of not being able to get into a SLF at all. Even some campuses that have private pay assisted living, but have skilled nursing Medicaid as the financial “safety net”, require 18 months to two years of private pay funds before they will allow someone on Medicaid to reside on their campus.Once your senior loved one has about $100,000 in total assets left, give Senior Living Experts a call. We can walk you through this process, and make sure that you are considering the timing involved when it comes to moving your senior at the right time, with the right amount of finances. Do not run out of funds without first being in the proper level of care, at the right time, and at the right type of community.

We're here to help you learn how to compare pricing between different assisted living facilities because making a decision about where to place a loved one or live as an aging senior isn't easy. We're here to help you if you are looking for assisted living in the Chicago area; making it easier for you to make an informed decision.

The Facts About Assisted Living Pricing

• Prices Aren't All Inclusive - The price you pay entering a facility won't be the price you'll be paying later in life as needs change.
• Size of Apartment - It's imperative that you choose the right sized apartment for now and for the future. Like any apartment, price is partially based on size.
• Price Shock - Most people have price shock when listening to the "menu pricing" of assisted living costs; assuming that this is not a feasible choice. Understanding how to afford assisted living is just as important as understanding how to compare pricing between different assisted living facilities.
• Additional Fees - You need to be fully aware of additional fees that can apply throughout the entire time you choose and live in assisted living. Every place has their own fees and how they apply, so every place you look at will be slightly different.

How to Compare Pricing Between Different Assisted Living Facilities

1. Create a List - Begin by creating a list of your current needs for assisted living. This list will change as you begin visiting because various amenities will be brought to your attention as you visit different assisted living facilities.
2. Assume Nothing - Ask questions about everything and it's cost because hidden costs and fees are what can put you above the price level you can afford.
3. Assistance - Find out what type of assistance is available in your area. Certain facilities may also offer price reductions for everything from income levels to other qualifications that can help you afford a place that you may think you can't.
4. Long Term Care Benefits - Purchasing long term care benefits is one of the best options for before the need arises. We can assist you in purchasing these type of benefits which can be extremely beneficial when the time comes to search for assisted living.
5. Costs - There is no question that assisted living can be overwhelming. Here in Chicago the cost of assisted living can be as high as $5,000 a month.
6. Government Funding - You may be surprised to find what Medicare covers for long term care costs in seniors. Become acquainted with the funding that is available to you in your area (something that Senior Living Experts can help you with).
7. Reverse Mortgages - There are pros and cons to reverse mortgages, which can be used to help pay for assisted living. Get informed!

If this all seems overwhelming to you then you really should seek out the professional expertise that Senior Living Experts can offer. We want you to fully understand how to compare pricing between different assisted living facilities and help you if you're in the Chicago area. Photo by steinarhovland (Pixabay)

April is National Parkinson's Disease Awareness Month and a time to reflect upon the disease and some important things to remember.

Parkinson's Disease Awareness

Awareness of the disease can help you not only learn how to deal with it but what may possibly be expected in your future. You will learn about the symptoms, the procedures, the medications, the holistic treatments and so much more when it comes to figuring out the body with PD.

What is Parkinson's Disease?

Parkinson's disease is a progressive, chronic disease that affects the ability of movement. It causes nerve cells within the brain (neurons) to die off or malfunction; causing decreased or loss of control over movements and coordination as it progresses.

Parkinson's Facts:

• Approximately 1 million people in the U.S.are affected yearly
• The Average age of Parkinson's onset is 60 and increases with age
• Early onset PD can can affect a person aged 50 & younger (accounting for approximately 4% of those diagnosed)
• Cause is unknown; however it is thought that both genetics and environment play a vital role in this disease
• Parkinson's Disease is a progressive disease; however it can also be a slow moving disease taking 20 or more years to fully progress
• Men are more likely to be diagnosed than women (50% more men have Parkinson's than women)
• On average doctor's diagnose as many as 60,000 new PD cases each year
• Genetics may play a factor in the disease, with 15-25% of those diagnosed having a relative who is diagnosed also; however this does not mean that you must have someone else in the family diagnosed (or someone may have had it without diagnosis)
• There is NO SPECIFIC TEST to determine if you have Parkinson's Disease
• There is currently no cure for PD; only a way to manage/treat the symptoms

4 of the Most Prominent Motor Signs of Parkinson's Disease

1. Tremor usually begin in the head, hands, arms, legs & face
2. rigidity or stiffness of the body
3. slowness of movement (referred to as: bradykinesia)
4. instability of the posture, impaired balance and coordination

Living with Parkinson's Disease

You can have a full life with Parkinson's disease and Parkinson's Disease Awareness is how it begins.

1. Health Team - Find a physician/specialist who works with Parkinson's Disease (often neurologists will specialize in this field)
2. Reduce Stress - Stress only increases the symptoms of the disease (learn yoga, take walks, running, reading, etc.)
3. Trials - Keep in touch with the new clinical trials that you can participate in.
4. Caregiving - As time goes on a professional caregiver can be helpful and will help reduce the stress of everyday needs & chores
5. Socialize - Remain socially active with local Parkinson's groups, friends or family. Depression can be a side effect of the disease.
6. Diet & Exercise - Your body will always benefit from an excellent diet and exercise; let us help you obtain both.

This article is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Parkinson's Disease Awareness and Senior Living Experts can help you live life to the fullest.Cited Works:Florida Hospital - Parkinson's DiseaseMichael J. Fox FoundationParkinson's Disease Foundation

‍Photo by jp26jp / Pixabay

Senior Living Experts understands that promoting healthy nutrition in the elderly can be difficult. March is National Nutrition Month; a time to focus on healthy eating habits at every age.

Eating Habits Change in Seniors

We can help you find the services you need to help promote healthy nutrition in the elderly person(s) in your life.As we age our bodies change and so can our eating habits. Seniors who have dementia can be especially difficult. Here are some interesting ways to address changes in eating habits and promoting healthy nutrition in the elderly…

• Consistency – Being consistent and having a regular schedule can be helpful. Many seniors like being on a schedule, even if it isn’t to the minute. It can also be especially helpful when dealing with dementia patients to have a common, regular day to look forward to.
• Limit Choices – While you may think that having a multitude of choices can be an effective way to a way of meeting the nutritional needs of a senior, it can be overwhelming for those who have dementia issues. While you want to have options, keeping them limited.
• Sneak in Veggies – Sometimes it’s best to keep things simple. Instead of spaghetti and a salad, you can sneak some of the fresh veggies into the sauce by finely mincing vegetables & adding it to the sauce while cooking (even blending the sauce with fresh spinach, peppers, etc. in a blender). Your meal becomes a simple dish of spaghetti, less fuss, less conflict. Click here for 40 ways to add healthy ingredients to your meals.

3 Things to Ask Chicago Assisted Living Facilities

If you’re looking to find a senior living facility and that you want to be sure is promoting healthy nutrition in the elderly you’ll want to ask a few questions.

1. Variety – Ask to see a menu, current & past, to see if the types of food they offer. You’ll want to be sure there is not only a variety of entrée options but also the ability to fulfill the nutritional needs of your senior loved one. Ask how they handle when a resident doesn’t like the options or request something different. How accommodating are they?
2. Rules – Find out what the dining room “rules” are and how they handle various situations. If your senior loved one has shown problems with eating, whether from health issues, dementia, or simply because of the changes they’ve experienced from aging, ask how the facility handles these problems.
3. Staffing – Having a registered dietician or nutritionist will help promote healthy eating habits. Having meals prepared for the residents will provide options that can address particular needs of your senior loved one (diabetes, thyroid issues, dementia, etc.). Keeping a medical staff on hand will also be helpful if there are changes in eating habits, inability to eat/swallow or changes in ability, or weight (gaining or losing).

Find the Right Senior Living for Your Needs

Senior Living Experts can help you find the right kind of senior living facility to help you be sure your elderly loved one is eating healthy! Making sure you understand the nutritional needs of your senior is important, especially those battling Alzheimer’s. Join us in promoting healthy nutrition in the elderly this month by sharing this page with others!Photo by OakleyOriginals

How should you choose Chicago assisted living facilities?Senior Living Experts offers free assistance in helping you find the best fit for you and your needs.

Tips to Help Choose Chicago Assisted Living Facilities

We are here to serve you in finding the right fit for senior living options. First, we want you to understand our services as explained here. We guide you by evaluating your situation and then providing you with options for YOU to choose.

5 Tips to Help You Choose Chicago Assisted Living

1. Types of Living Choices – This article explains the various types of senior living. There are a number of options available for seniors and we can assist you in finding the best options available for your financial situation, abilities, needs, and desires.
2. Illinois Financial Aid – Unfortunately finances will play a big part in your decision; but you have options. Illinois offers various state financial aid programs that can help.
3. National Financial Aid – There are also a variety of National financial aid programs that can help with the costs of senior living. This Eldercare Financial Assistance tool can help you find programs that you may qualify for on a national level.
4. Location – According to the Paying for Senior Care website, searching for senior living in the outer areas of the urban Chicago area costs decrease. Moving further away from the cities and into more suburban areas can help decrease costs by as much as 25% in some instances.
5. Ability to Accommodate – Your needs will change as you age; especially if you currently have a degenerative disease. Take your worst case scenario and make sure that the facility you are choosing has the ability to change with your needs.

Personalized Fit for How to Choose Chicago Assisted Living

Many people forget to think that part of what you are looking for when you choose Chicago assisted living is the “living” part! You need to choose your senior living with these 5 main points in mind for your current situation and the future:

• Physical – The physical needs for now and the future need to be met. If you or your loved one has Alzheimer’s; will the living style you choose be able to meet the care needs for dementia? If you have diabetes, will there be a way to ensure you get healthy snacks and meals as you age? Simply put, you need to sure that your physical aging needs can and will be met in the future.
• Social – Are you a highly social person or someone that enjoys hobbies? Remaining socially active is a large part of aging successfully. Make sure that there are enough interesting events and functions available to keep you busy.
• Mental – You need to remain mentally stimulated as you age. You also need to have access to therapies and care that can deal with different possible mental aspects of aging (dementia care, depression, memory stimulation, focusing on a clear mind that can think well for as long as possible).
• Financial – You need to ensure that you will be able to afford services currently and into the future. We can help you find out what amenities are included and what will be additional as you need them. These additional amenities could end up doubling your bill (or more) as your needs change. Be sure you find a place that you can afford if your needs change.
• Health – You want to be sure that your choice for senior living facilities will help you keep active and as healthy as possible. You also want to be sure that as your health changes the facility can keep up with your needs. This can include having on site physical therapy, occupational therapy, psychological therapies, on site nursing staff, and even a facility physician.

The New Senior Lifestyle

Today’s seniors are active, hands-on, knowledgeable and wanting to age well.When you’re finding your way to the future of your golden years go with your heart. Let us assist you when it’s time to choose Chicago assisted living facilities so that you can find the place that will continue to feel like home, filled with happiness every day.Unsplash Photo by Tiago

An exciting night in television history for us last night! Dominic Chu from CNBC did report for PBS' Nightly Business Report that featured a clip with Senior Living Experts Founder, Lisa Sneddon.In the beginning of the month, we were contacted by a producer from CNBC regarding the show.  Lisa was asked numerous questions about the state of the industry and the current costs for care.This was part three of a four part series, Aging in America and this segment focused on the companies to watch for stock purposes.  Our nations aging population is going to need senior living and related resources so the gist is that you want to watch out for the big players in the industry and think about investing in their stock.  I actually spoke about one of the main reasons and benefits of choosing assisted living over home care which was the socialization aspect.

Unfortunately, none of the other questions or answers fit into the focus (or the time frame!!) of this particular segment, but it was such an interesting experience from start to finish, and we hope to get the opportunity to do it again!Here is a link to the featured segment on the show : "Aging in America: the companies that benefit"And here is Lisa, sitting in front of a magical green screen for the first time!

Someone just sent me a link to an article that was in Monday's edition of USA Today.  I am just getting around to reading it now.  Its a great article and it speaks of all the different kinds of situations we come across in our business.  I have included the link here USA TODAY article on Elder care shifting away from nursing homes.

When I went to the site though, it appears they are doing different articles on the subject all week so its a great place to browse.  Also, they had a link to the ABC caregiving articles and stories including the one I mention below where they wanted caregivers to send in video clips!  Check it out!

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Photo on Unsplash by Sam Mcghee

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supportive living facilities (SLF) are a relatively new concept in senior care.  The first one in Illinois opened up in 1999 and in 2005 the state enacted to make SLF a permanent program.

See, what was happening was that there were seniors living in nursing homes that did not require 24-hour care.  Maybe they needed it when they first got there, but then the got better, yet going home alone was not an option.   These residents were on Medicaid and the state figured out that it would cost less for them to live in an “assisted living” model than a nursing home that cost more to operate.  The state has saved about 40% in Medicaid costs and is preventing premature placement in nursing homes.

The definition of SLF is affordable, independent living for seniors in need of some assistance with daily living (ADLs), such as medication management, bathing, grooming, etc.  As a state program, financial assistance is available for those who qualify.  But you can also live there and pay privately.  Or move in as a private pay and spend down.

Most of the SLF buildings in the Chicagoland area are brand new construction or rehabs!  Each person has their own apartment, which has to have at least 300 sq of living space, closets and a full bathroom of their own.  The doors lock from the inside for privacy and there are emergency call systems in each apartment.  Also, they are wired for private phone lines, access to cable and include a sink, microwave and a refrigerator.  (Kitchenette.)

Services included are 3 meals a day, housekeeping, laundry, health and wellness checks, activities, group transportation and assistance with ADL’s if needed.

The difference between assisted living that we already talked about and an SLF is that the SLF does have financial assistance to those who qualify.  Requirements include that the resident MUST be at least 65 or older (not always the case with private pay AL).  They must require help with at least one ADL (unless paying privately).  They cannot have a primary or secondary diagnosis of Mental Illness or be developmentally disabled.  And must receive a minimum monthly income of Social Security (SS) of $603 a month.

So how much does it cost?  Well if you want to pay privately, the rates are lower than most assisted living buildings – usually falling in the range of $2500-2900 a month for a single person.

If you qualify for financial assistance then your SS check goes directly to the facility toward payment of your rent and the state makes up the difference.  The resident receives $90 of their SS check back to use for miscellaneous expenses.  (In a nursing home the reimbursement is only $30! – What in God’s name can you do with a dollar a day? – just my 2 cents..)

Where are they?  Good question!  The state has a website www.SLFillinois.com that will give you list of locations that are open and those that are pending.  There currently are about 50 open and operational sites and over 90 pending in the state.   They also include the addresses and phone numbers so you can call and get more information or schedule a tour.  Some of them have waiting lists so it’s good to call sooner rather than later.  The website also goes into great detail than I just did as to how it works! 

Photo by Jahnae Neal from Pexels

This holiday season, it’s important to observe how your senior loved one is doing when visiting them. Often, after the holidays, we get calls from families who have noticed some changes in their family member that have caused them to think a more supported lifestyle may be in store.Here are some things to look for:Is your loved one still active and participating in the events that they have always enjoyed?Is their personal hygiene being done on a daily basis?Are they eating proper, nutritious meals?Have they had recent falls?Are they mentally alert and making safe decisions for themselves?Are they seeing their doctor regularly?Is their home safe to navigate? (Laundry on main level, walk in shower?)If after seeing your senior in the next several weeks, you feel they are in need of more support, give Senior Living Experts a call. We can talk over the options with you and educate you on the senior living level that would benefit your senior the most. Perhaps, it would be for a respite stay during the difficult months of winter, or for a permanent transition. Either way, we can assist in helping to make your senior successful and fulfilled in their newfound lifestyle!

What Is Memory Care?

When it comes the time when a loved one needs extra care and assistance to remain happy and healthy, the words "memory care" may come up as an option. As our loved ones age, they lose not only physical capabilities, but also mental ones.

How Is Memory Care Designed?

Memory care communities are designed for those with Alzheimer’s or other memory related illnesses in mind. They aren’t too different from assisted living communities, They provide many fundamentals such as housekeeping, meal preparations and aid with daily needs, but also pays specific attention to those with memory loss and their unique needs. Memory care communities prioritize keeping seniors involved and mentally active. Even with the loss of cognitive abilities, seniors can continue to engage with others and take part in many activities and hobbies that staff provides. Many care communities have social calendars filled with a variety of activities to get seniors excited. For some communities, that means cognitive abilities like brain games.

Are All Memory Care Communities The Same?

Just like every senior is different, so is the memory care provided. When you choose a new community, the care plans you get customized to fit the needs of your loved one. Often, seniors with memory problems are placed in a solely memory care community that best enables care workers to assist our loved one's unique needs. Memory care units can also be separated for those with early dementia or late stage dementia. Staff in memory units are also highly trained and equipped as well as usually having undergone additional training for dealing with those who have memory related diseases.  During the COVID pandemic, memory care communities are taken the safest measures possible. Memory communities are a secure and safe environment for your loved ones who deal with Alzheimer’s or memory related diseases where they can continue to enjoy life while also getting the best care possible. Regardless of your choice, your mom is good hands. Whether in Barrington, Lake Barrington, North Barrington, Lake Zurich, Deer Park, Naperville, Bull Valley, Crystal Lake, Schaumberg, and the City of Chicago, senior living communities care options for your loved ones. Contact us to get in touch with a certified advisor who knows your area.

It’s IBS Awareness Month. We want you to understand how Chicago assisted living facilities can help irritable bowel syndrome in the elderly. Senior Living Experts can help make life a little easier for you or a senior loved one who suffers from IBS.

5 Ways Chicago Assisted Living Facilities Can Help Irritable Bowel Syndrome in the Elderly

First of all you need to begin the process of finding the right assisted living facility. There are a number of ways that Chicago assisted living facilities can help with irritable bowel syndrome in the elderly.

1. Special Diet – The diet you eat is especially relevant in those who have IBS. Finding a facility that prepares meals will help manage the IBS as much as possible. Once you know your trigger foods your diet is the beginning of eating foods that can help manage your symptoms. This comprehensive list of common trigger foods will help.
2. Other Health Issues – In addition to IBS it is common to suffer from other health issues too. Finding a facility to help with other health problems associated with IBS can make life easier by addressing the symptoms.
3. Fibromyalgia – A significant statistic associated with IBS is that 60% of those who have it are also diagnosed with Fibromyalgia. FMS takes a heavy toll on the body; but with assisted living there are options available to help with the symptoms. On site therapies & treatment for IBS is probably one of the most helpful resources.
4. Stress & Anxiety – Both can affect those without IBS so it’s likely safe to assume that even without IBS stress plays havoc on the digestive system. It’s estimated that 60% of those who suffer from IBS have some type of mental disorder. Disorders are commonly associated with anxiety.
5. Lack of Energy – One of the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome includes suffering from tiredness and lack of energy. Having housekeeping and personal hygiene assistance can help seniors use their time to concentrate on doing things they enjoy. Light housekeeping and assisting you with getting ready to for your day allows you to focus on enjoying life and rest.

How Assisted Living Can Help Seniors with Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Consequently choosing the right senior living facility can make a big difference in your quality of life. The amenities offered and chosen are as important as location of the facility when you need help with certain health issues.

Amenities of Assisted Living That Can Help Seniors with Irritable Bowel Syndrome

• Meal Preparation – Soothing the Symptoms of IBS with Diet Therapy
• Housekeeping
• Laundry Services
• On Site Therapies (Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Therapeutic Massage Therapy, Mental Health Counseling, etc.)
• Transportation (especially helpful for keeping doctor’s appointments)
• Indoor Pool Access & Gym (helpful for those battling joint pain caused by IBS or Fibromyalgia) – Also see this article on using water therapy for relief of IBS symptoms

In Conclusion

Let our team help you find the senior living facilities that can give you quality of life while living with IBS. assisted living facilities in Chicago can help irritable bowel syndrome in the elderly when the facility offers the amenities to manage IBS symptoms.Photo by H o l l y.

What are the Best Activities for Seniors? The “best” is in the eye of the beholder, but with a little help from dailycaring.com, here is a list of options for seniors to consider for fun activities to engage in on a daily basis:

Activities for Elderly that Build the Body

Regular Exercise

In all senior living communities, we find full on fitness centers, or at the very least, the space available to hold a fitness class of some short. For seniors who are less mobile, communities offer chair exercise and chair yoga as alternatives. I have seen balance machines in communities with detect for the senior in which direction they would fall if in fact, they were to lose balance. This tool helps the senior understand which direction their body would tend to fall, and then therapy team members can teach the resident “how" to fall properly. Nobody expects to fall, but often this is what we see happen to seniors all too often. If we are able to educate them on the safest way to break your fall, they may not experience fractures, which we certainly all want to avoid. Exercise is a great activity for the more mobile senior too, and can add Tai Chi as an option, a walking club, dance classes, and trainer supervised resistance training. After a hard workout, we are also seeing more massage stations brought into senior living communities to relax the senior, loosen tight muscle groups, and make the senior aware of any potential health concerns noticed.

Go outside!

This is so important, even in the cooler weather. We all need sunshine and fresh air on a daily basis. If a senior cannot get outside, open a window. Sit inside, but in the sunshine and close your eyes letting the sun hit your face. This is an enjoyable activity for anyone, especially seniors who are often more prone to being indoors. I was visiting a senior living community a week ago, and when I left, it was about 30 degrees outside. It was dark as well, as it’s only the beginning of March in Chicago. As I opened the door and walked out onto the front porch of the community, I see a son enjoying some time with his mom and both were all bundled up! I was so happy to see that the son realizes how important being outside is, and how important fresh air is to make us all feel alive! March in Chicago, 30 degrees, bundled all up... Do what you have to do to get your senior outside everyday!

Activities for Seniors that Promote Imagination and Creativity

Arts and crafts

As in hobbies, our lives are so busy, we often don’t get to be as creative as we would like to be in terms of drawing, painting, sculpting, putting together scrapbooks, and the newest craze being coloring books! Working on our “masterpieces” causes one to relax, reduces stress, and anxiety. We often lose ourselves in our artistic works not realizing how much time has gone by! Senior living communities consider creativity and art to be a very unique and celebrated activity for seniors as you see some of the residents’ works displayed around the community for all to enjoy.

Hobbies

Often our lives are so busy, we don’t get to partake in the hobbies that we love as much as we would like to. Being a senior is a great time to pick up the hobby that they used to like to do, but never had the time for. Now is the time! Whether it’s knitting, woodworking, gardening, playing an instrument, or baking, senior living communities support their residents by finding ways to bring these hobbies back to the seniors who are willing to try them again. More and more communities that are new are actually waiting for their seniors to move in to determine an activity calendar because they want resident input. If the residents want to garden, raised garden beds will be built, supplies purchased, and plots divvied up! If a resident always played a particular instrument, but no longer has it, there is an opportunity to rent one and allow the resident to try it again. Hobbies are a great activity for seniors to re-familiarize themselves with, and share their hobby with their new friends.

Activities for Elderly that Sharpen the Mind and Helps to Relax

Reading

This is a great way to exercise the brain, relax, and let yourself go into another world through a great story. Seniors can choose a great book, but also magazines, E-reading, and audio books are a great option as well. Reading an old favorite can help the senior recall the events of the story which is a great tool to exercise the brain by recalling the plot, sequence to the story, and conclusion. In senior living communities as a favorite activity for the seniors, book clubs are a popular and well attended activity slot for the day. This gives the seniors the ability to participate in discussion, relate the storyline to their own lives, and is an important tool in overall socialization for the seniors. If the senior was never a big reader, they may not be aware of audiobooks as another form of storytelling, as well as the E-reading phenomenon now, so we need to be sure to introduce those mediums as a way for seniors to engage in this activity.

Play games

Game rooms are a big part of senior living communities now. Rooms are often dedicated to Scrabble playing, card playing of all kind, Bingo, word searches and puzzles. This allows residents to form groups who would like to play, or simply going in the game room on their own and putting in a few pieces to the puzzle, is a great activity for seniors.

TV, Movies, and Music

We don’t want residents watching too much TV as there are so many other more enriching activities to take part in. However, with shows from the Food Network, for example, the recipes can be followed by the baking club at the community, and a delicious treat can be created by the residents! Demonstration kitchens are often seen in senior living communities now as a way to bring a favorite recipe back for all to try. Movie nights are a regular fun activity for seniors as they reminisce about their favorite actors, favorite lines in a movie, and favorite love stories or adventures. Finally, music is imperative as a favorite activity to be brought to seniors on a daily basis. We have seen studies on how playing music to non-verbal Alzheimer’s patients can trigger language, conversation, and old memories to surface. Entertainment is an escape, just like a favorite book.

Best Social Activities for Seniors

Visitors

In working with seniors for 23 years this year, I have learned two things that the senior loves as an activity: anything to do with children and pets! They love both, and when children or animals walk through the doors of a community, faces brighten up! A lot of communities offer pet therapy as a favorite activity, as well as intergenerational activities such as seniors helping young children to read and write. It works both ways here, as the child is just as happy to be with the senior, as the senior is to be with the child.

Volunteer/Charity

Many seniors who live in senior living communities choose to volunteer at their nearest hospital or church. Volunteering gives seniors a sense of purpose, and this activity is as beneficial for the senior, as it is for the receiver. Knitting for the newborn preemies at the nearby hospital, stuffing envelopes for a not-for-profit organization, assembling care packages for the troops are just some ways a senior can help to give back. It’s a purposeful activity for the senior, that has a ripple effect in the good that it does for so many.Many senior living communities are stepping up their activity programs by asking residents what they have always wanted to do, but never could. So, when something like “skydiving” is brought up, don’t be surprised if the community works to clear the resident for the potential of fulfilling a lifelong dream! Activities are important for all of us on a daily basis, but for seniors, it’s the lifestyle that they so deserve. If you are looking for the right senior living solution for your loved one, contact us at (773) 938-3772 and we’ll be happy to help you

Activities are a very important part of life as you age; especially if you are living in an assisted living facility. No matter what, we want to age well and as healthy as possible despite the physical and mental trials and tribulations we are handed.

Why Activities are Important in assisted living

There are 6 main aspects to healthy aging. It’s important to understand how to evaluate activities programming in assisted living facilities properly in order to ensure that the following are taken into consideration:

1. Healthy Diet – Eating a healthy diet is important for healthy aging.
2. Mental Stimulation – Constantly offering activities to keep the brain active is a vital part to aging well.
3. Quality Sleep – Keeping a schedule and sleeping well helps the brain recharge for the next day.
4. Social Life – Remaining socially active is imperative to feeling as though you are appreciated and serve a purpose.
5. Managed Stress – One of the benefits to living in an Assisted Living Facility is that stress can be limited and conditions controlled to minimize stress levels.
6. Physical Activity – Physical activity can continue throughout most of life and making sure the Assisted Living Facility you choose offers continued physical activity is important.

How to Evaluate Activities Programming in Assisted Living Facilities

Senior Living Experts will help you evaluate activities programming in assisted living facilities by asking the right types of questions to help find the activities your loved one is most likely to both appreciate and benefit from.

Types of Activities That Are Beneficial

• Seniorcising – A term that refers to exercising “senior style,” seniorcising allows people of all ages and abilities to exercise with a focus on what they can do; giving them a feeling of achievement. Even the slightest of activity can be beneficial as we age.
• Gardening – Many residents of Assisted Living Facilities are forced to leave their homes and gardens; however, a very beneficial activity includes small but safe gardening areas.
• Games/Puzzles/Reading – Having access to regular games, puzzles & reading is essential. If there is always something to do it reduces the chance of boredom.
• Community Outings – It's important that outings into the community are available to shop or visit local places of interest within the community.
• Social Interactions – We are social creatures and this need for social contact doesn’t end as we age. It’s important that programs that include social interactions with a variety of types of people regularly; especially helpful are events in which younger generations interact with the seniors.
• Classes – You’re never too old to learn and learning is a very important way to slow down the loss of cognitive impairment. Learning can include a new language, a craft, or even a creative art.
• Music – Music has long been associated with stress relief and brain stimulation that’s beneficial to aging.

Here are some categories to cover and questions to ask include:

Surroundings, Environment, Safety

• Is both the inside and outside kept up; free from litter, smells, etc?
• Does the staff look and act professional?
• Are residents greeted by name and with kindness?
• Do visitors receive immediate assistance; including being greeted at the main entry point so the staff knows who comes into the facility?
• Is the overall atmosphere pleasant, clean, safe, and happy?
• Are there enough safety and ADA (American Disabilities Act) features to accommodate current and future needs? (Non-skid floors, wide doorways to fit wheelchairs/motorized mobility vehicles, grab bars, memory units for those with dementia available, etc.)
• Are there smoke detectors, sprinklers, marked exits and clear pathways to all exits?

Policies, Services & Amenities

Our blog on Assisted Living Pricing will help alert you to some of the possible hidden costs.

• Are all amenities included in the price or is there a fee schedule available to add amenities as needed?
• What are the moving rules and fees that could be charged?
• Do they provide regular assessments with the client’s physician to ensure that their needs are being met while continuously adjusting to changes in the resident’s abilities?
• Is there a 24 hour service staff available on-site?
• What are the policies for smoking, alcohol use, and visitors?
• Can residents have food and/or cook in their apartments?

Socialization

• Do they offer a variety of on-site activities to keep residents entertained and busy?
• Are there off-site trips to help residents remain active in the community?
• Does the facility allow or have pets?
• What holidays are celebrated in the facility?

Assisted Living Facts

1. There are over 31,000 licensed assisted living facilities across the United States and over 200 listed for Chicago on Senior Housing Net.
2. Assisted Living means that a number of amenities can be offered, many with 24/7 care to help the residents. A staff can assist with a variety of tasks that can include; meals, laundry, transportation, fitness/gym, health services, safety and more.
3. All 50 states require licensing and inspections for assisted living facilities; however, this does not mean that you are necessarily guaranteed quality of care in an assisted living facility. Some facilities will maintain higher levels of standard than others (another good reason for utilizing Senior Living Experts).

Here at Senior Living Experts we know how to evaluate activities in assisted living facilities, making it easier for you to narrow down your choices for your loved one.Resources:American Alzheimer’s Association (ALZ.Org)Photo by Z-Solutions

Dr. Cheryl Woodson, Family caregiver, geriatrician, and author is a tireless advocate for seniors and their families.  On Thursday, August 16th, 2007 she will be presenting an informative FREE lecture titled:
"To Survive Caregiving" Daughter's Experience, A Doctor's Advice on Finding Hope, Help, and Health."
This event is going to be held at the Hallmark at 2960 North Lakeshore Drive in Chicago.  They offer free valet parking. Seating is limited so please RSVP by August 13th, 2007 to (312) 329-9060.  The event is also sponsored by Senior Bridge, an excellent private duty and care management company here in Chicago. 

The first fifty registrants will receive a complimentary copy of "To Survive Caregiving"

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels

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I was looking at the 'stats' for my blog just now and I noticed that someone found my page by entering the following question into their search bar:  "assisted living places in illinois that take medicare payments".  Here is your quick answer.NONE.Medicare does not pay for long term care.  It will pay for long term care in a rehab center after discharge from a hospital.  It will pay for out patient therapy which can be performed in and assisted living home.  But it does not pay for ROOM and BOARD. In Illinois we have some assisted living facilities that can be paid for via Medicaid, called supportive living facilities, but the rest are private pay.

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Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels

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I am constantly around seniors.  And many of the seniors I am around are in long-term care or considering long-term care. Most of them have many ailments and take lots of medications.  The exposure to this has really made me think about healthy aging.

I am starting to really pay attention to what I eat - because it seems to be one of the most important parts. Studies I read about cancer or Alzheimer's - they always talk about the healthy foods that people eat that prevent or slow down these diseases.

After years of eating the quickest and cheapest food out there, I have found myself spending more and more time (and money) in Whole Foods.  I am also going more often because I buy smaller amounts of fresher food.

That is one of the reasons I recommended Dr. Weil's book on this blog - there is a link to it on Amazon on the right. → I think he is the end all be all on the subject of healthy living and healthy eating.  The only problem is he makes me feel horrible sometimes. (Does anyone else feel this way or just me?) I hate fish!  I don't have the discipline to follow all the suggestions... but its something to aspire too.

So I will continue to read as many labels and I can bear and stay as far away from fast food as I can so that I can look forward to enjoying a nice long life and live as independently as possible in my future.

But if I do need assisted living, at least I will know where to go and how much it’s going to cost.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels

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Earlier this week, as I was talking with a son about his mom, I had a very real Alzheimer's moment.  One of those things that happens.  Those warning signs.  Those 'safety' concerns...

Here I was talking to this gentleman about his mom's safety and how moving out of her large home into an independent living community would give the both of them piece of mind. 

And then I smelled the most horrible smell in the world.

I had been steaming some vegetables (using the steamer my grandmother gave me) in one of my beautiful Calphalon pots and *forgot* about it.  I had taken the veggies out but forgot to turn off the stove and therefore the water boiled away and I cooked my pot.  Luckily, after a good soak, the pot was as good as new.

But now I think I might need at least move to a place that provides meals... at least I know a bunch of good ones!  :)

Photo by Askar Abayev from Pexels

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May is Arthritis Awareness Month and our focus is on those who suffer from debilitating arthritis. The term arthritis itself means inflammation in the joint area and can not only be debilitating but cause chronic pain that can change your life forever.

The Most Common Types of Arthritis

There are 100 different types of arthritis; however, these 4 are the most common types experienced:

• Gout - It's often a surprise to many that gout is a form of arthritis.
• Fibromyalgia - Fibro is an auto-immune disease in which the body literally attacks it's own system. Auto-immune diseases often have common symptoms of chronic pain, degenerative symptoms, and fatigue.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis - RA is another auto-immune disease that presents itself with common symptoms as mentioned above.
• Psoriatic Arthritis - PsA or Psoriatic Arthritis is also an auto-immune disease and commonly presents itself along with an unsightly rash like psoriasis; hence it's name.
• Osteoarthritis - OA is the most common type of arthritis

Caregiving for Debilitating Arthritis

Arthritis can be so painful and symptoms so severe that it becomes debilitating. When arthritis affects your quality of life it can be beneficial to seek out caregiving or some type of assisted living that can help make your life easier.

• Mobility - Once arthritis becomes debilitating, mobility can become a very big concern. Having someone available to assist you safely as you move around can help keep you more active and help slow deterioration while also reducing pain.
• Diet - Assistance with eating a balanced diet can help in many ways including maintaining weight, losing weight, eating anti-inflammatory foods, having healthy options ready to eat without needing to fix meals yourself.
• Medication Monitoring - Many assisted living facilities can monitor your pain levels; provide medication on time, regularly; suggest alternative methods of dealing with mobility & pain; and much more.
• Safety - Assisted living facilities are designed to accommodate those who are fall risks or need assistive devices for safe mobility. Grab bars, specially designed floors and other safety designs are commonly built in and help keep residents safe.
• Depression - Debilitating arthritis means that you can no longer do many of the things you used to do and this can cause feelings of depression and worthlessness. Caregivers, whether in-home or in a facility, can not only recognize signs of depression but help you address it.
• Socialization - Any debilitating disease will decrease your ability to continue many of the forms of entertainment you used to enjoy. Living in an assisted living facility can help you maintain your independence while being around others; most likely resulting in you finding a multitude of options to socialize and find new hobbies.

Senior Living Experts can help you find the best options to deal with your arthritis while maintaining your independence. The reality is that arthritis can be extremely painful at any level; but debilitating arthritis literally changes your quality of life.Photo by handarmdoc/Flickr

This week, for the first time, I heard the term, “Elder Orphan”. Of course, as a Senior Living Advisor with Senior Living Experts for twelve years, I have come across dozens of seniors who have no children, and no extended family members. Just the term, “Elder orphan” pulled at my heart strings. To navigate aging on your own, has got to be a lonely and frightening road to experience. According to CNN, about 22% of seniors over 65 years old are Elder Orphans, having no family in their lives. Some say being alone in life is not something to be concerned about. They will be just fine. This could certainly be true, however, there is value in being aware of services available to our seniors who may want more support as they age.

Senior Care Specialists for Elder Orphans

Geriatric Care Managers are a great option for seniors who may be alone in navigating their care, their daily bill paying, coordination of doctors appointments and personal plan of care. Some can act as Power of Attorney, which is necessary to care for the healthcare and financial issues that inevitably come into play as seniors age. Geriatric Care Managers take the entire plan of care of the senior and make sure all players on the seniors team are acting as they should to give the senior the support they need.

Calling Senior Living Experts would also be a way to construct a support system around the senior so that they can seek help from the right professional. Not only does Senior Living Experts assist in finding seniors communities to live in, we also have a wide network of other senior professionals who can assist the senior. Some of these are Elder Law Attorney’s, Senior Move Managers, home care providers, senior certified realtors, caregiver stress counselors, financial advisors, grief counselors, etc. We can create a network around the senior so that seniors are not alone at all.

Elder Orphans Facilities

Senior Home Sharing is another concept in the western suburbs of Chicago that may continue to grow in popularity. About five to ten seniors share a home, each having their own bedroom, and sometimes sharing a bathroom with another resident. There is a 24/7 manager in the home who prepares meals, does light housekeeping, and conducts activities for residents to enjoy. The atmosphere created is a very family-like, collaborative environment where everyone looks out for one another. The monthly fees to live in a shared home are very reasonable, so it’s a great option for seniors looking for more support.In closing, last night on World News, there was a story of a WWII Veteran being buried, but had no family members. When fellow Americans found out about this, dozens of strangers became family and attended the Veterans services so that he was not alone. Whether someone chooses to be alone or not, there are services available, as well as selfless people who simply want to let the senior know, they are there for them.