When buying a home, we seek out a realtor to guide us to the perfect house within budget. When we want to draw up a Power of Attorney, or a Will, we seek out an Attorney who can make sure we are within the legal guidelines so our futures are secure. How do we do the same when finding long-term care for our loved one?

Department of Public Health (IDPH) is undercounting COVID-19 cases

According to an article in the LaGrange Patch earlier this week, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) was not counting positive Covid cases that were located in Plymouth Place, a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC). The nursing team at Plymouth Place was following protocol to alert the State to the positive cases, but noticed in later updates that their cases were not showing up on the daily reports shared by IDPH. Senior Living Experts is aware of another CCRC in the Chicagoland area that has had no positive cases, but was inaccurately reported as having three in their community by IDPH. We are closely monitoring other communities in present time.

How can we do this if IDPH is incorrectly reporting COVID-19 incidents in communities?

When our loved one desires, or requires senior living, we (should) seek out a Senior Living Advisor who can guide us to communities that provide the level of care, services, and amenities the senior would benefit from the most.

‍With so many unknowns and misinformation these days, at Senior Living Experts we believe it’s important to work with an Advisor so that you are getting accurate information. It’s our job to know the details of a community, and find out not only the pricing, but also the “culture” of a community. This translates to things such as the ingenuity of activities brought to residents and creative solutions that work within State regulations. Yet, guaranteeing the residents remaining in their current level of care, a good experience and consistency in staff.Covid-19 has shined a light on Senior Living, and we want to guide you down what can be a very overwhelming path. We will get the information you need right along with you, for you, and with the very individual preferences your loved one needs at this time.

For a free care consultation, call our advisors 1 (773) 453 486 or online here.

A resident of Brookdale Plaza Lake View and her sister were granted the opportunity of a lifetime to meet the Blue Angels.  The wish was granted through an organization called Senior Wish.This past weekend the Blue Angels flew into Chicago as usual to entertain the masses during the annual air and water show.  But this time two sisters got to meet the crew in Gary Indiana.  Both have a fascination with airplanes and flying and the older sister worked as a riveter during WWII building planes.  She planned to be a pilot, but alas those dreams were not to come true.  However she & her younger sister have remained enthralled with airplanes to this day.Attached is a news clip from WGN that shows the ladies meeting the team, and gives a little back story on their history and lives.  It is so great to see how vibrant and young they both still are.  Most of the interior shots were filmed at the community!Real life Rosie the Riveter gets to meet the Blue Angels

I just received the sweetest Christmas card in the mail from one of the lovely ladies I helped in the past.  I have it hanging by my desk to remind me why I do this.In this instance her daughter-in-law, via the Internet, had contacted me.  She had been researching options for her mother-in-law who lived out of state but was thinking of coming to the Chicago area to be near her son and D-I-L.  Her husband had recently died and she was alone in a very large home they had shared together for years.While she was still in good health, and getting there in an emergency wasn’t an issue, it still was quite a chore and a time commitment for the family to come visit.  She did not live by any major airports so with flying time and driving time combined the distance was just too much.The son wanted mom to be near enough that they could eat together at least once a week, but wanted mom to feel as independent as possible.After finding out the care needs (there weren’t any other than socialization) and the budget – we set out to look at two places I thought would work.  They like the first place we saw and we set out to tour the second next.  (The son gave me props for being really great at following someone in their car…).  They really liked the second place and they were offering some very attractive move in specials so they decided to fly mom in to take a look.Well she loved it and didn’t even look at the first place.  She moved in a few months later and within a few weeks had signed up to be on the welcome committee for all new residents.Now when I take other families on a tour of this particular building, I am sure to see her out and about – and I also know that she will be part of the team of volunteer residents that will help the new resident find their way around.

Photos from Brigette Tohm from Pexels.

Most independent living communities and some assisted living communities allow senior residents to have pets in their homes. As a part of the activities programming in senior living communities, often pet therapy and pet visits are on the schedule regularly. In working in senior living communities for the first ten years of my career, I got to witness the delight on the seniors’ faces when pets, especially dogs, would trot in the front door. Pets show us unconditional love, and remind of the pets we had and loved in our lives.

How to Choose a Pet for Elderly?

There is research backing up the fact that pets cause our blood pressure to decrease, reduces stress, helps with depression and anxiety. Not only do we crave companionship in our lives, but also having the responsibility of a pet gives the senior a sense of purpose. Making sure to choose the right breed is important, especially when it comes to energy level, whether the dog needs to be groomed on a regular basis, and since most senior living communities prefer dogs to be under 35 pounds, the size should also be taken into consideration. If the senior is a Snow Bird, this lifestyle must also be taken into consideration when choosing a dog. An easy going, flexible dog who can adapt to a new environment would be ideal in this situation. The age of the dog must also be taken into consideration. A dog is considered a senior at about seven years old.

Pet Services for Seniors

If the senior enjoys the companionship of a dog, but is not able to care for the dog, there are many services available to the senior for a little extra help. Dog walkers can be hired to allow the dog several nice long walks each week. There are even services available to pick up after the dog in the backyard! For grooming, mobile dog groomers will come right to the seniors home and groom the dog right there. These services allow the dog to be well cared for, even when the senior is at the point where they could use a little support.

Best Dog Breeds for Seniors

According to Thesprucepets.com, a Bichon Frise, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, And French Bulldog are the top three breeds that are senior friendly. Using a breeder, or asking a shelter which breed of dog would be appropriate for the senior, is a good place to start. Shelters and rescues work hard match the right dog to the right human. Once the match is made, the bonding and love can commence! This is the perfect situation to say, “who rescued who?” The dog needs their human, and the human needs their best friend.

Chicago Department on Aging's latest Brown Bag Lunch Series promises to teach you about new gadgets that ensure the safety of your older loved ones while you are away from home as well as find out about programs and services available to help you balance your responsibilities as a caregiver for an older adult.Bring a lunch - the seminar, as usual, is FREE.Friday, July 20, 2007 12:15-1:15Chicago Department on Aging30 N. La Salle #2320(312) 744-8580

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Photo by Linkedin

Having a talk with your aging loved ones about a transition into a nursing home or assisted living facility can be very difficult. This is a very emotional part when you let your aging loved ones know that it is time for them to go into a nursing facility. This is such a difficult phase in everyone’s lives, but this is the crucial part. Of course they may not understand at first, but by slowly explaining to them the reason why, they will soon see your reasons. Proper timing as to when to start the conversation is key here.

They will always be reluctant at first, because of their fears. That’s understandable though, especially if they are suffering from dementia. People with dementia will get confused and agitated if they are in an environment that is new.

‍Addressing the Issues

‍1. Living space conditions2. Problems with performing their daily activities3. Health problems4. Money matters5. Mobility

‍What is dementia?

‍Dementia is a term where one’s mental ability declines that is severe enough that it interferes with the individual’s daily life. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. It affects the thinking, behavior and one’s ability to perform day-to-day tasks.

‍How to Ease the Transition of Your Aging Loved One

‍Making the transition for the elderly with dementia is a big deal. Those that are suffering from the disease need something or someone that is always familiar to them because they get confused and easily get agitated if something new is introduced abruptly.1. Introduce your loved one in the facility before they actually move there. Gradual introduction of the new environment helps them in familiarizing the new surroundings for which they will be staying.2. Keeping familiar items in their new room – especially with their favorite things. If possible, make their room look exactly like their old room.3. Make sure that staffs are informed about your loved one’s personal preferences.4. Make sure that they get to eat their favorite snacks or food especially if they come from a different culture and being introduced to a bicultural or multicultural environment.5. Keep a list of your loved one’s favorite songs.6. Visit your loved ones daily.7. Make you that you consult with the doctor before you ever move your loved one in the nursing facility to make sure they have the medical equipment and medicine supply for your loved ones.Understanding their needs and their apprehensions and being able to address them accordingly would greatly help them in their transition to a nursing home facility.This great guest post was written by Jesse Waugh who writes for Daughterly Care.

Audio conferences presented by the Alzheimer's Association, Greater Illinois Chapter are held the second Tuesday of every month. This month's topic is very relevant of many of the families (and professionals) we work with so we wanted to pass it along so you could participate.This one will be held Tuesday, October 13 from noon to 1 p.m. Click here to register or call 309.662.8392. Once signed up, registrants will receive information and directions for the call.

Presenter: Melanie Adams, Director of Education and Outreach, Alzheimer’s Association, Greater Illinois Chapter

Description: When a person with dementia refuses to do something we need them to do, it is easy to get frustrated. However, a few simple techniques can help them stop “digging in their heels.” Join in to learn ways we may be contributing to their stubbornness without even realizing it. Focus on skills to gently guide them from a “no” to a “yes” as we try to support them and keep them safe while honoring their dignity.

Meals To Hospitals

What better way to support our locals? These last 2 weeks, our Advisors Kerry Quirin, Rebecca Donze, and Nancy Pappas have been delivering meals to nurses at Chicagoland hospitals. We've been extra careful to not only provide meals to the nurses during the day shift, but also the night shift. This week, we partnered with Mojo's East Coast Eats.

We're Not the Only Ones Helping Doctors and Nurses!

Here, Western Suburbs Advisor Kerry Quirin talks about all the wonderful ways the average Chicagoland person has been helping. From PPE to other gifts and food, these communities have received so much support![video width="400" height="224" mp4="https://seniorlivingexperts.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/95819651_241097490312652_2706580255547588608_n.mp4"][/video]You may have a question then: is it safe, or even is it worth it to move a senior living community?

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.

When seeking assisted living facilities for seniors in the Naperville area, available mental health services should be considered. Senior Living Experts can help you choose the right facility.

Choosing The Right Facility

Assisted living facilities in Naperville and surrounding areas offer varying levels of care for different physical health needs of their elderly residents. Some, however, also specialize in providing certain types of mental health needs and may be a better fit for family members seeking a safe, welcoming community for their loved one.Finding the right fit is critical for the peace of mind for residents and also for family members looking for a quality place for special people to receive care beyond what they are able to receive at home. This is especially true when mental health needs are involved: some families may not have adequate training, secure homes or scheduling availability to properly care for someone around the clock who continues to develop mental health challenges.However, an assisted living facility that is able to provide mental health services and care can help with these types of residents, and help them feel welcome while providing them with round-the-clock trained care and physical security.The staff at Senior Living Experts are skilled in providing the type of care required. Some of the more common types of mental health challenges we can help with are:

Depression

It’s expected that as people age, they’ll have more moments of sadness, such as grief over recently deceased friends or family members, changes in environment or even financial concerns. Even the stress of having to consider relocating to a retirement community and give up a longtime home can cast a negative light on everything around someone.But there are critical differences from ‘feeling a little blue sometimes’ to suffering full-blown depression. The latter can be an actual chronic mental illness that can strongly impact a senior’s life – and sometimes the lives of their caregivers or family members. With prolonged depression, they may lose interest in previous pleasures or hobbies, want to withdraw, and sometimes lack interest in exercise, activities or even eating. All of these could affect their physical health as well.The staff at Senior Living Experts are trained to observe residents around the clock, notice any of the possible symptoms of depression, and encourage them to take whatever steps are necessary to help them. This could be everything from encouraging them to be involved in social and physical activities around the community to involving their health care provider, who could discuss different medication or therapy options.Medical science continues to research the causes and treatments of depression, but an assisted living community can be a good place to make sure they are well-supported.

Dementia

This is a blanket term for many of the temporary or permanent behaviors associated with declines in mental ability, especially as someone ages. These can include confusion, memory loss, perception problems, and simply problems paying attention.Some forms of dementia may even trigger other mental health problems, such as depression.Some may be reversible, while others, including Alzheimer’s disease, are permanent, progressive, conditions. However, research is still taking place. Assisted living facilities with mental health services take special effort to aid residents suffering from different types of dementia or not aggravate them further. This can include everything from playing familiar music to cooking familiar food, as sound and scents from someone’s past have each shown to be especially calming.Residents may gather to be social and share memories from the past, which are often more vivid than current memories. Or they may get together as a group to work on puzzles or other mental challenges to keep their brains active.Some assisted living facilities have been especially designed for memory care patients, and include tools like monitored doors or locked gates to keep residents from leaving on their own. The staff at many facilities has also been trained in how to courteously accommodate residents who may lose track of their rooms or forget their surroundings.

Other Services

Research is continuing into possible ties between mental health and aging, so some employees who work in assisted living facilities remain interested in seeking programs and activities that may boost interest and participation – and possibly may aid mental health as well.In the Naperville area, some alternative or complementary medicine providers in the community come to one of the facilities to visit and work with residents. Their services are designed especially with seniors in mind, such as acupuncture, a method where slim needles inserted in someone’s skin to help boost mental and physical energy; and holistic medicine, where seniors receive an education in topics about herbs and other natural products to provide extra energy and a better diet.

Making The Transition Easier

Senior Living Experts are here to help smooth the transition for your loved one. Contact us to learn the best steps to take when you are considering assisted living for a senior with mental health challenges.

Elder care can be a difficult thing to figure out on your own and there are tricks that a professional adviser may know about assisted living pricing that could help you.

7 Things You May Not Know About Assisted Living Pricing

There is a lot to be considered when looking into assisted living. Here are seven things you may not know about assisted living pricing:

1. Services – Pricing for various services may be offered a la’ carte; meaning that you may be able to mix and match the specific services needed. An example of this is having laundry and housekeeping chores done by the family or friends instead of the facility.
2. Pricing – Not all pricing is set in stone and may be negotiable. An adviser will know how and what facilities are open to negotiate assisted living pricing.
3. Fees – Be aware of special fees, often referred to as “community fees” or “entrance fees” as these can become a very costly part of the overall assisted living pricing. These may also be negotiable in certain facilities or spread out over a matter of time to help defer the overall initial costs.
4. Types of Assisted Living – Assisted living pricing can vary according to the type of assistance you are in need of to maintain quality of life while aging. Understanding the numerous types of assisted living is very important and is part of a service that an adviser such as Senior Living Experts can offer.
5. Planning – Planning ahead is the best way to stay ahead of the game when it comes to aging affordably; however, this is often something that is put off until you are at a point where you’re already searching for options. Planning ahead can include Long-Term Care Insurance and estate planning among other options; all of which a senior care expert should be able to help you with.
6. Costs – There are a number of costs that can be added, removed, or negotiated to reduce the overall cost of assisted living pricing. These can be adjusted by determining the specific types of housing and needs that would work best; apartment living, single or shared room senior care facilities, senior care at home, or a specific type of facility needed for your particular needs such as memory care, dementia or Alzheimer’s care facilities are some of the most common options available.
7. Understand Benefits Available – There are often benefits available to seniors when it comes to affordable housing or care options. Benefits are specific to everything from being a veteran, war vets, and/or lower income levels (such as these supportive living facilities sprouting up in the Chicago area) and can help defer the overall costs of assisted living pricing when utilized.

The new cost of assisted living

Genworth, a leading provider of life and long term care insurance recently released it's 12th annual Cost of Care Survey. The study follows the cost of Home Care Providers, Adult Day Health Care Facilities, Nursing Homes and most importantly to us here at Senior Living Experts, assisted living facilities.According to the report, on a national basis, the yearly costs that consumers pay for assisted living care has risen 2.5% annually over the last five years. Costs have increased at a faster rate in the past year.For 2015, the national median monthly rate for for assisted living care is $3,600, which translates to $43,200 annually.Specifically for Illinois the median annual rates were found to be:- Home Health Aide: $49,192- Homemaker Service: $48,048- Assisted Living Single Occupancy: $48,600- Nursing Home, Semi-Private room: $64,780Keep in mind that when comparing the cost of a home health aide or homemaker - you also have to include the cost of maintaing the home the senior is in.  Those costs can include maintenance, taxes, mortgage, groceries, utilities, cleaning, transportation etc - making the cost to stay at home greater than the cost to live in assisted living (Generally speaking).It was noted that the minimum monthly for assisted living in Illinois was $1,278 - which I am sure was not in the Chicago metro area, and the maximum was $9,840.  Monthly costs can vary due to location of the building itself (proximity to the city, hospital, major roadways etc.. just like real estate) as well as the size of the room and the amount of additional care required.  Some residents may only need help with reminders and meals and activities while others need assistance with showering and going to the bathroom which will cost more.The report did find that Illinois is not in the top 10 most expensive states for the cost of senior care.  So while we are higher than the national average, we are lower than Washington DC which was $94,050!Let us help. Most people will go into the search for the best assisted living pricing as first time buyers and like most things in life, experience and knowledge can be the best way to avoid making the wrong move. Photo by dno1967b via Flickr

Senior Living Experts is celebrating Thyroid Awareness Week with some information about your thyroid health. You may be surprised at how important the thyroid is to your body!

How Thyroid Health Affects Your Overall Health

Chicago seniors have the advantage of utilizing the services we offer, combined with the knowledge we provide so YOU can be in charge of aging well. Let’s learn more about the thyroid.

What Does the Thyroid Do?

The thyroid is gland. Located in the throat, it is a butterfly shaped gland that secretes hormones into the blood. These hormones help control nearly every organ in your body and more. Your thyroid affects your

1. Heart & Heart Rate
2. Metabolism
3. Body Muscles
4. Brain
5. Skin (the largest “organ” of your body)
6. Liver
7. Digestion
8. Energy Levels
9. Weight (Gain/Loss)
10. Temperature Intolerance

It’s easy to see how important your thyroid health is to your overall body health.

Thyroid Problems

There are a number of thyroid issues that can cause health problems. We’re offering this link to a more thorough listing of possible thyroid problems. We will focus on the 2 most common thyroid problems here.

Hyperthyroidism – A condition where your thyroid makes more of the thyroid hormone than the body needs.

Symptoms/Conditions of Hyperthyroidism

• Intolerance to heat or feeling overheated
• Sweating
• Fatigue
• Muscle Weakness
• Irritability
• Weight Loss
• Nervousness
• Increased/Rapid Heart Beat
• Digestive Issues (Diarrhea, increased frequency of bowel movements)
• Trouble Sleeping

Hypothyroidism – A condition where your thyroid doesn’t make enough of the thyroid hormone needed.

Symptoms/Conditions of Hypothyroidism

• Depression
• Fatigue
• Intolerance to or feeling cold
• Weight Gain
• Constipation
• Trouble Sleeping
• Joint Pain
• Muscle Pain
• Decreased Heart Rate

It’s important that you recognize the symptoms listed above. These symptoms can be very subtle; making it difficult to recognize that you could be experiencing thyroid problems.

Keeping an Eye on Your Thyroid Health

1. Regular Doctor’s Visits – Your PCP will check your throat area, feeling for any abnormalities (nodules, goiters, etc). Your physician plays a very important part in noticing any changes in the thyroid area and keeping blood work up to date.
2. Blood Work – The best way to understand if your thyroid is working properly is by testing the TSH (thyroid hormone) levels. The American Thyroid Association offers this free PDF brochure on the basics of the thyroid & testing.
3. Symptoms – Symptoms can be very subtle; making it difficult to notice the symptoms of an unhealthy thyroid. It’s important to know that seniors over the age of 60 are most likely to experience thyroid health problems.

Thyroid Awareness Month

January is “Thyroid Awareness Month”. In this article, we discuss the function of the thyroid gland and the various thyroid health concerns that can arise, especially for seniors.  (Note: “Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month”, which has a focus specifically on one thyroid disorder, thyroid cancer, occurs in September.)Diagnosing thyroid disease in seniors can be difficult because some of the symptoms are also associated with aging or other medical conditions. It might be natural to assume that memory issues, constipation or weight gain are part of the aging process. However, these can also be signs of thyroid disease. Today, some 30 million Americans are affected by thyroid disease. If you think you or a loved one may have a thyroid condition, you should learn about diagnosis, symptoms and treatments.

The Thyroid Gland

The thyroid gland is a small organ, which is shaped almost like a butterfly and produces important hormones. The gland is just 2 inches in size and is situated below your Adam's apple and a little above your collarbones. It is responsible for running and maintaining a number of critical processes for a healthy body.The gland is part of the endocrine system, which directly affects almost every single organ.  It is responsible for regulating skin integrity, menstrual cycles, calcium levels, and the nervous system, heart and cholesterol levels. In addition, it controls brain development, your body temperature, respiration, metabolism and fat production. Thyroid problems begin to occur when the thyroid gland produces too much hormone or not enough.

Thyroid Awareness Month

January has been dedicated as Thyroid Awareness Month to help draw attention to this serious disease. Most of us have heard about thyroid glands, but we may not realize the importance of the gland or that we may have symptoms of this disease. Health experts hope that publicizing information about thyroid diseases will educate people and encourage them to visit their physician for a simple blood test to determine if they need treatment.

Diagnosing Thyroid Disease

If you think you might be one of the 15 million Americans that have an undiagnosed thyroid condition, you might want to check your neck for lumps, which could be an indication of a thyroid condition.

To perform a self-check:

Hold a hand mirror towards your neck just above your collarbones where you can see the area below your Adam's apple.

1. Tilt the head back, and take a sip of water.
2. Swallow the water, and watch your neck for signs of bulging.
3. Repeat the steps a few times to make sure you don't see obvious signs of bulging.
4. If you discover a bulge, nodule or an enlarged gland, contact your physician.

To confirm whether there is a thyroid concern, your physician may perform a thyroid-stimulating hormone test. This blood test measures whether the gland is working properly. It is highly recommended to get tested if you are a senior over 60, have family members diagnosed with the disease or believe you have symptoms.

Causes of Thyroid Diseases

There are several causes, but some common causes can be attributed to autoimmune disease, certain types of medications, thyroid surgery or radiation therapy. Anyone can develop thyroid problems, but women who are 60 years of age or older seem to be more susceptible.

Types of Thyroid Diseases

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid produces excessive amounts of hormones. The symptoms of hyperthyroidism may include increased anxiety or nervousness and emotional instability. You may experience unusual weight loss, a rapid heart rate, high blood pressure and diarrhea or irregular menstrual cycles if you're still menstruating. Depending upon your situation, your doctor may prescribe treatments using anti-thyroid medications, surgery or radioactive iodine therapy.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism results when the thyroid does not produce enough hormones. Most of the symptoms resulting from hypothyroidism are the opposite of hyperthyroidism. People with hypo thyroid disease may experience depression, body hair loss, changes in the voice, constipation and muscle aches. They may also notice a slower heart rate, irregular menstrual cycles and weight gain. Hypo conditions are normally treated using a synthetic thyroid hormone called levothyroxine, which comes in a pill form and is swallowed.

Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer is one of the rarer forms of cancer in the US. In an average year, as many as 45,000 people may be diagnosed with this type of cancer, but most cases are easily treated or cured by surgery.

The Emotional Impact Of Thyroid Cancer

Although it is true that thyroid cancer is often able to be successfully treated with surgery (typically thyroidectomy), thyroid cancer survivors often report that they resent it when others may make light of the post-surgical issues faced by survivors, including lifelong dependency upon medication and recurring medical exams and ultrasound imaging to check for recurrence. Many survivors also report experiencing lingering anxiety and stress from their awareness that although rare, recurrence is possible for the rest of their lives.  Furthermore, many survivors also face long-term problems with muscle cramps related to damage that can occur to their parathyroid glands during thyroidectomies.

Caregivers Can Help Seniors with Thyroid Disease

Caregivers should carefully monitor and discuss thyroid symptoms and aging complaints with seniors or elderly people in their charge.  Professional caregivers provided by in-home care companies are usually trained about the need to take care these concerns.  If your senior loved one lives in an assisted living facility, the caregivers in that facility need to be trained on the importance of these matters.

• If you're responsible for a senior that is taking thyroid medication, you need to see that the medication is taken the same exact time every day.
• Dispense medications at least a half hour before breakfast.
• Patients are advised to take medications several hours before consuming foods containing iron, calcium or soy, which may interfere with absorption.
• Caregivers should verify the prescription for levothyroxine is correct and no substitutions have been made by insurance companies.

Thyroid prescriptions can usually get symptoms under control. However, it's important that family members and caregivers keep abreast of new symptoms that may warrant a trip to the doctor. Senior Living Experts wants to help you enjoy the best years of your life as you age. Taking control of aging healthy is much easier when you have the knowledge you need. That’s why we take pride in not only helping you find the right place to age but the right information to guide you on aging successfully. Remember that your thyroid health is a very important part of your overall health.

Sources:https://www.thyroidawareness.com/https://www.agingcare.com/Articles/things-to-know-about-thyroid-176292.htmhttps://www.healthinaging.org/aging-and-health-a-to-z/topic:thyroid-problems/info:care-and-treatment/https://www.thyroid.org/thyroid-cancer/

You don't have to face diabetes alone.We are focusing on seniors with diabetes and how Senior Living Experts can be an excellent resource in helping manage or even help reduce your risk of getting Type 2 diabetes. November is National Diabetes Awareness Month; a perfect time to learn more about the disease.

Facts about Seniors with Diabetes

• Type 2 Diabetes – The most common type of diabetes, type 2 diabetes can quite often be avoided or even “cured” with lifestyle changes.
• Managing Diabetes – Managing your diabetes is extremely important. By managing your diabetes you will reduce your risk of other health issues associated with uncontrolled insulin levels.
• Risk –As you age your risk for getting type 2 diabetes increases. However, with the proper lifestyle changes you can help decrease your risk for getting diabetes.
• Pre-Diabetes – When your body is showing signs of becoming diabetic the term “pre-diabetic” may be used to describe your current state of health. There is also a condition known as insulin intolerance or resistance that puts you at increased risk of becoming diabetic. Here’s more information on pre-diabetes and insulin resistance from the CDC.
• Knowledge is Power – An important part of managing your insulin levels is awareness. According to the CDC, 9 out of 10 people with pre-diabetes do not even know that they are pre-diabetic.
• Seniors with Diabetes Numbers – 11.8 million seniors have diabetes and accounts for nearly 26% of the population being diabetic. According to ADA statistics, this includes both those diagnosed and undiagnosed.
• Diabetes & Death – Diabetes is the 7th leading cause of death.

5 Areas That Lifestyle Changes Can Help

It’s almost unthinkable that such a leading cause of death, taking our country by such high numbers, could very often be avoided with the following lifestyle changes:

1. Diet – A healthy diet is the basis for a healthy body. When it comes to diabetes, eating healthier can not only help you reduce your risk for becoming diabetic but is also a way to manage your diabetes if you are diagnosed.
2. Exercise – It seems that we all know and understand that exercise is a big factor when it comes to reducing our risk for most diseases, including diabetes. Even the slightest increase in activity and short bursts of exercise can make a difference.
3. Monitoring – Know your numbers. Work closely with your doctor to test your blood glucose levels. Focus on your A1C and/or eAG levels, which is a very good way to obtain an overview of your insulin levels.
4. Sleep – Sleep is an important factor in helping to battle and manage diabetes. These sleep resources may help.
5. Stress – Stress can increase your insulin levels and cause you to have problems when trying to manage your diabetes. Read more about how stress relates to your insulin levels here.

How the Right Senior Living Can Be Beneficial

The following amenities can be something to look for if you are pre-diabetic, insulin resistant, diabetic or at an increased risk for becoming diabetic. Remember, we can help you find the right senior living facility and/or caregiving to offer some or all of these amenities.

• Meals, depending upon your needs and desires they can provide meals or assist in meal preparation if you enjoy cooking
• Dietician to help you lose weight, maintain a healthy weight, and/or follow the right diet
• On site exercise facilities and guided activities that promote moving about safely
• Physical therapy and/or occupational therapy that increases your activity while also helping you get stronger and healthier
• Social atmosphere that helps keep you entertained with people your age; helping to reduce your stress through laughter & friendship
• Possible financial assistance & guidance can help you reduce stress levels about money
• Shopping assistance (depending upon your needs this may include taking you shopping, helping you pick out the best options for healthy eating and helping you find new and exciting products)
• On site nursing staff that can help you with everything from taking your diabetes medication properly to testing your insulin levels
• Caregivers to help remind you to take medications, assist you regularly to keep active and help you make choices that can be beneficial to your overall health
• Light Housekeeping that can help you save your strength and time to focus on enjoying the things in life that you want to enjoy; thus helping you decrease stress levels

Senior Living Experts offers free guidance in choosing senior living that can actually help you take charge of your diabetes and risk for diabetes. Let us work with you and your senior loved one in choosing the right type of lifestyle that can help seniors with diabetes live a healthier, happier life.Photo by isakarakus (Pixabay)

It’s Glaucoma Awareness Month and Senior Living Experts is focusing on glaucoma care for seniors. Although glaucoma can occur in anyone, from babies to seniors, our focus is going to be on senior care & facts.

Glaucoma Care for Seniors – Tips & Facts

• Blindness – Cataracts is the leading cause of blindness; while Glaucoma is the second leading cause for blindness in the world.
• What is Glaucoma – This video, less than 2 minutes long, explains what glaucoma is. When surveyed by the Prevent Blindness America Survey 50% of those surveyed understood that glaucoma had something to do with the pressure in the eye but really didn’t understand exactly what it was or if it could be treated.
• Who Has It – It is estimated that 3 million Americans have glaucoma and yet only half of them even know they have it. The biggest reason is that people don’t get regular eye exams.
• Risk Factors – Many assume that increased pressure in the eye means you have glaucoma. This is not what glaucoma is; nor is this what “causes” glaucoma. Click here to review the risk factors for glaucoma. These risk factors can include health issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure and more. Family history of glaucoma is a big risk factor and puts you in a risk group that requires testing more often.
• No Cure – There is currently no cure for glaucoma and no way to repair the damage that it causes to the eye. However, there are treatments that can help you slow degenerative progress down.
• Types of Glaucoma – The most common form of glaucoma is open-angle glaucoma. There are other types of glaucoma, including the less common forms, that can occur.

Glaucoma Care for Seniors – Why is Age a Factor?

1. Testing – The most effective testing method for detecting glaucoma is with a comprehensive dilated eye exam done by a professional. Seniors 65 and older should get an exam every two years; along with those who are at increased risk. Beginning at age 40 the average comprehensive eye exam that includes glaucoma testing should be done every 4 years until the age of 65.
2. Symptoms – According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, the most common type of glaucoma has virtually no symptoms. The truth of the matter is that by the time you notice symptoms of glaucoma damage may already be done and your vision has been compromised.
3. Age Increases Risk Factor – As you age your risk factor or glaucoma increases. However, if you have regular comprehensive eye exams and embrace a healthy lifestyle you can reduce your risk for getting glaucoma.
4. Vision Impairment – 9 million people in the U.S. are affected by vision impairment. Vision impairment is very prevalent in seniors. Vision impairment can adversely affect the quality of life for seniors (no matter what the source of impairment comes from).
5. Reducing Your Risk – There are ways you can reduce your risk for glaucoma. Early detection is the best way to reduce the damage that can be caused by glaucoma. The GRF discusses other options for reducing your risk of developing the disease.

Glaucoma Care for Seniors (Quality of Life)

When your vision is impaired it can affect many aspects of your life; creating a very real decline in your overall quality of life. Areas that can be affected by vision impairment include:

• Night Vision
• Driving
• Inability or Decreased Ability to Read
• Dry or Tired Eyes
• Loss of Vision
• Complete Blindness
• Headaches
• Peripheral Vision Loss
• Eye Pain
• Halos Around Lights
• Weeping Eyes
• Blurred Vision
• Loss of Distance Vision
• Decreased Ability to Adjust to Light Changes
• Blind Spots/Patches of Vision Loss

If you consider each of these areas that can be affected by vision problems, you can see how your quality of life can be changed forever. Unfortunately glaucoma cannot be fixed and there is no way to repair damage created by glaucoma.

Senior Living with Vision Problems

Special conditions, equipment and measures can be taken to make your life easier if you’ve lost vision to glaucoma. Many senior living facilities have access to special computers, large type books, audio books and more; all as a means for making your quality of life better.However, the best option is early detection and proper eye care. This is one of the biggest reasons why glaucoma care for seniors is so important to quality of life.Cited Works & Websites:Bright Focus Foundation WebsiteThe Mayo Clinic – Diseases & Conditions, GlaucomaGlaucoma Research Foundation WebsiteNational Eye Institute (NEI) Website

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‍Photo by LordFerguson

What's included in memory care? As our loved one's age, we may find the need for additional care for them to remain happy and healthy. When looking into next step care here are 5 features that most memory care communities incorporate (don't know what memory care is?).

The Physical Characteristics

Memory care communities are specially designed for seniors who suffer with memory impairment diseases. One important goal in designing these communities is that they are easy to navigate for seniors. Clear walkways with lots of natural lighting are crucial, proper signage can also be beneficial for some seniors. Visual stimulation is also important and included in memory care; this can be achieved in many ways including aquariums which have constant visual movement and can be quite relaxing to watch. Many seniors also enjoy colorful wall art. These communities are designed to keep stress and anxiety of seniors to a minimum while also being enjoyable places to live.

Specially Trained Staff

You will see a higher staff to resident ratio then you would in assisted living--it usually included comes in memory care. The staff in memory care is also specially trained and have usually undergone additional training before working in a memory unit. This added training really allows staff to understand the memory related diseases like Alzheimer's and be able to recognize progression of the illness. The training also benefits senior's daily life as the staff will learn activities and fit for seniors with Alzheimer's and dementia and their special needs.

Security and Safety

In memory care safety and happiness of the residents are the priority for staff and they carry out this in a couple of ways. One of the common behaviors those with Alzheimer's or dementia express is wandering. To combat this turning dangerous many communities, have 24/7 surveillance and keep all doors secured. Memory care include an enclosed courtyard where seniors can enjoy the outdoors in a safe way. During the COVID pandemic, memory care communities are taken the safest measures possible.

Enriching Programs and Activities

Enjoyable and meaningful activities are crucial in memory care for both the senior's happiness and for their mental care. Many care facilities include both a variety of leisure and therapeutic activities in the social calendar to entice seniors of all backgrounds. This social and physical stimulation created by activities and hobbies can help lessen behaviors such as wandering, anxiety, and depression (https://seniorlivingexperts.com/depression-in-the-elderly-more-facts/) in seniors. These activities also help seniors to maintain their current cognitive abilities in an enjoyable way.

Customized Care

Every senior is different and so are their care needs. One of the best things about memory care is it caters to both a senior's physical abilities as well as their cognitive ones in a personalized way. There are varying levels of memory care ranging from communities for early dementia to late stage dementia seniors. Person-centered care is a top priority and each resident will have a personalized care plan tailored to their needs. This allows residents to get nothing short of the best care that they need to live out a happy and meaningful life.Regardless of your choice, your mom is good hands. For example, Brookdale, which has a little under 10 communities in Chicagoland, offers a private companion, trained staff 24 horus a day, personal assistance, and so much more. 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.

Assisted living facilities in Schaumburg know that respite care is vital when caring for loved ones with dementia to prevent caregiver burn-out and preserve quality of care. Do you provide care for someone living with dementia? If so, you understand the rigors and strains that this condition causes to the patient, as well as their entire family, caregivers and support system. Respite care is one option to take the caregiver out of the situation for a little while and provide a higher-level of nursing care to those diagnosed with dementia. Senior Living Experts can connect you with resources and assisted living facilities in the region that offer respite care services.

Assisted living facilities in Schaumburg know that respite care is vital when caring for loved ones with dementia

There are many reasons to seek respite care for someone you love with dementia. It can improve prognoses and outcomes when used in chronic care situations, such as with a patient living with Alzheimer’s disease. Some specific ways respite helps include:

To reduce burnout

Caregivers, paid and unpaid, need a break. Use respite care services to prevent potential caregiver burnout for your loved one with dementia. Caregiver burnout is a type of exhaustion that occurs when caring for someone else and it manifests in physical, mental, and emotional ways. It is often accompanied by an ambivalence or apathy toward those in their care, though there are many other signs of this occurrence to be aware of:

• Changes in mood or symptoms of depression.
• Irritability or impatience.
• Fatigue.
• Propensity for illness or feeling sick.
• Change in sleeping or eating pattern.
• Social withdrawal and a lack of interest in activities and leisure.

To prevent compassion fatigue

When you don’t address or remedy burnout, the stage is set for compassion fatigue to occur. Compassion Fatigue is often experienced by those that help the distressed. There is a sort of secondary trauma that accompanies bearing witness to suffering, whether the afflicted is an animal or a person. Caregivers may be preoccupied with their duties and in a state of anxiety or tension- these are signs of compassion fatigue. Some other signs of this condition are similar to burnout but chronic and frequently accompanied by isolation, depersonalization, and hopelessness. There is a sense of detachment that comes from compassion fatigue among professional caregivers that could lead many to leave the field indefinitely.

For rehabilitation and fast-recovery

Aside from the caregivers’ needs clients may want to consider rehab and recovery before returning home after an injury or hospitalization which makes respite care a great option for seniors with dementia. This allows services and delivery to be arranged prior to the patient returning to independent living, which can create a smoother transition and more favorable outcomes overall. This also gives providers an opportunity to observe the patient as they ‘step-down’ from acute care in the event a complication or problem should arise.

To preserve the relationship

Utilize respite care to preserve the caregiver-client relationship. The rapport between clients and their caregivers is critical; taking time off from one-another can prevent strains or stresses that can affect this relationship over time. There is an old adage ‘absence makes the heart grow fonder’ which seems to sum-up the need to occasionally take a break.

For coping with the challenges of dementia

Not surprisingly, there are distinct challenges of working with patients with dementia. The changes in behavior and personality demonstrated by loved ones with dementia can cause angst and frustration among those closest to the senior. Taking time to discover new approaches, craft creative solutions, and practice patience is imperative. How can a caregiver help someone else when their own needs are not being met? Respite provides the time and space to further explore how to best cope with the everyday challenges and obstacles facing their client.

Look for qualified respite services in your area to give caregivers a break

Take advantage of online resources to find appropriate respite services for those living with dementia. Providers may be able to offer referrals, as needed, to gain prompt admission to a respite unit of an assisted living facility to care for the patient while also giving caregivers a well-deserved break. Respite makes sense when helping those in your charge recover from an injury, illness, or hospitalization, giving them immediate and easy-access to their team of providers.Don’t delay in getting caregivers their well-earned break when caring for a loved one living with dementia. Senior Living Experts can help narrow down your search to pinpoint assisted-living facilities in the area that offer respite care for patients with this debilitating condition. A thorough needs assessment will determine the level of care needed to smoothly transition patients with dementia from supportive living environments to assisted-care, and home again, while giving the caregiver the opportunity to rest, recharge, and remember why they provide the important care that they do.

Lots of people are looking for a great gift idea for mom (or grandmother or auntie!) around this time.  And if mom is in a nursing home or assisted living or mom has Alzheimer's its even harder to find the perfect gift.  My dear grandmother had more bottles of White Linen then Estee Lauder herself even owned. 

When mom is recieving care - what is the perfect gift?  Well I think I found it.  I met the ladies who started a company called Nice-N-Cozy about a year ago at a caregiver conference.  When I saw their product I wished my grandmother was still alive so I could buy her something.  They make these wonderful fleece shawls that are easy to get in and out of and even easier to clean.  They have big pockets to hold tissues, and are warm.  Most seniors I know tend to be a little chilly so its a no brainer. 

My degree is actually in fashion design so I am kicking myself for not thinking of this simple but functional and pretty idea.  This year the girls have actually put together a mothers day basket that only cost $29.95.  It includes a shawl, fuzzy socks, and a lavender scented sachet that comes packaged in a pretty basket.  Lavender is very calmin for anyone, but the aromatherapy benefits for those with Alzheimer's is even greater in my opinion. 

Check it out if you are still searching for something to get mom.  If you do order something, please tell them that I sent you.  Here is the link to the Nice-N-Cozy Mother's Day Basket.

Photo by Anna Shvets/Pexels

Yesterday I went on a website that helps families sort out care for their loved ones.  Kind of like what I do but online.  So they had this really cool questionnaire and I filled it out with a specific client in mind.  She is pretty independent and we are helping her find a retirement community closer to her daughter.  She uses a cane occasionally, but other than that has no care needs.  She still drives and is sharp as a tack.  I know because I talked to her at length on the phone to try to learn as much about her so I can make the best recommendation.

So anyways, back to the online questions.  So I am zipping through pretending I am the looking for my friend I just spoke of.  I am sure they are going to give me a list of independent living communities when I am done.  They are asking me if I need help with dressing, am I still driving, do I have a feeding tube?  Questions so good I make a note to write some down.  I am always learning.

Then comes the memory or cognitive ability questions.  I know she doesn’t have dementia so I answer accordingly.  No, there has been no diagnosis.  No, she is not wandering away from home.  No, she is not having unusual behaviors.  But yes, sometimes she forgets to take her medication and remembers in the next couple of hours and takes it then.  Doesn’t everyone??  I do!

So my report comes back.  It says I need to run, not walk to my doctor and get an official screening for dementia.  I need to move into assisted living because I have displayed signs of forgetfulness.  I need to consider assisted living especially the ones that have the memory impairment neighborhoods because I am headed there fast.

And all I forgot to do was take my medication?   I better not tell them I spent 2 hours trying to recall and old acquaintances’ name or that I sometimes forget where I parked my car.

Photo by Anna Shvets/Pexels.

The Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Cognitive Neurology & Alzheimer’s Disease Center (say that three times fast..) or CNADC is sponsoring a “Buddy Program.”  

They match first year medical students with persons who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias.  The students are asked to spend 4-5 hours a month with their buddy.  They can do anything like going out to eat, window shopping, going to a museum or just walking along the lake and talking.

The concept helps both parties.  The person with Alzheimer’s is able to enjoy some socialization and companionship (and give the family caregiver a brief respite).  The students are able to learn through sharing with the individual and the family more about the disease in a non-clinical setting.  It’s a win win for both parties – not to mention the friendships and bonds that can form over time.

Currently they are looking for individuals who would be interested in joining the program.  They are especially interested in those who live in the city of Chicago or those with family members who would not mind driving into the city due to the transportation limitations of the medicals students.

For more information and/or to sign up please contact Andrea Skoglund, MSW, LCSW at 312-503-0604 or Darby Morhardt MSW, LCSW 312-908-9432 or click here!

Photo by Anna Shvets from Pexels

I saw this in a newsletter that I receive and wanted to pass it along as I do get asked this a lot.  This is a minimum as there are also various trusts to consider to prevent your money (or your parents or spouse's money) from getting tied up in probate...

Here they are:

A will with an executor, who is alive and able to fulfill his duties,

A durable power of attorney for financial which gives the power to someone the senior trusts to access her finances when needed

A living will that outlines health directives in case of emergency and end of life with a HIPAA release

A healthcare proxy, a person who has the legal right to carry out the senior’s healthcare wishes

A Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order. The healthcare proxy doesn’t have to invoke it but has the right to make a decision according to the senior’s wishes.

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Photo by James Hose Jr