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Lots of people are finding this site because they are doing searches on the cost of assisted living. You might go to Google and type in "how much does it cost to live in <insert name="" of="" community="" here=""> in <insert name="" of="" town="">."</insert></insert>
I don't know of many senior housing providers that list their pricing on their website. Some don't list it at all and some resource sites may list price ranges. But those ranges can be very broad. The cost is going to depend on the location of the property. For instance a property in the city of Chicago and a comparable property in Aurora, IL may have a big gap in pricing even if they look the same and provide the same care and are run by the same parent company. But thats real estate 101 - "location, location, location!"
Other things to consider is the size of the apartment or suite and the view from the apartment. You would also want to consider which floor it is on. They might price a suite on the first floor for more than the same one above it because its desirable to be on the first floor for many seniors.
And then the level of care comes into play. Some properties charge for care a la carte and some include care in the monthly rent. So while some may sound like they will charge less, when you get there and tell them about the assistance your parent needs, you may find out that the all inclusive property is less monthly.
Our company, Senior Living Experts helps you sort through this information. For free. We are touring in the local communities all the time and have a really good idea of what the cost of each property is. We work with most of the leading providers in the area like Sunrise Senior Living, Belmont Village, Senior Lifestyles Corporation (The Breakers, Lincolnwood Place, Autumn Green, etc), Pathways Senior Living, Brookdale Senior Living (the Hallmark, the Kenwood, the Meadows, Hawthorne Lakes, the Heritage, Holley Court Terrace, the Devonshire, etc..). We also work with providers that have only one community in the area like Cordia and the Wealshire/Ponds, Marley Oaks, the Vines at Countryside, The Inn at Willow Falls, St. Pauls House, the Hartwell, Covenant Home, Montgomery Place, King Home, The Birches, Carmalite Carefree Village, Three Crowns Park, Concord Place, the Garlands, the Ivy, Summit Square, Scottish Home, Robin's Nest, Senior Home Sharing, Paradise Park, Washington Square, Emma's House, Bethlehem Woods, St. Andrews, Waterford Estates, Harbor House, and many more.
Our website does list some ranges for cost to give you an idea, but feel free to call us and ask us about any property in Chicago or the Chicago suburbs. We can also let you know if your parents care needs would be met at a particular community as well as things like.. do they accept pets? Do they have memory care?
Our toll free number is 877.882.0509. We would love to help!
Photo by Daria Shevtsova
Pray for me I was once like you
Be kind and loving to me that’s how I would have treated you
Remember I was once someone’s parent or spouse
I had a life and a dream for the future
Speak to me; I can hear you even if I don’t
understand what you are saying
Speak to me of things in my past of which I can still relate
Be considerate of me, my days are such a struggle
Think of my feelings because I still have them and
can feel pain. Treat me with respect because
I would have treated you that way
Think of how I was before I got Alzheimer’s
I was full of life; I had a life, laughed and loved you
Think of how I am now, my disease distorts
my thinking, my feelings, and my ability to respond
but I still love you even if I can’t tell you
Think about my future because I used to
Remember I was full of hope for the future just like you are now
Think how it would be to have things locked in your mind
and can’t let them out
I need you to understand and not blame me but Alzheimer’s
I still need the compassion and the touching and
most of all I still need you to love me
Keep me in your prayers because I am between life and death
The love you give will be a blessing from God and both of
us will live forever
How you live and what you do today will always be remembered
in the heart of the Alzheimer’s Patient
© Carolyn Haynali 3/10/00
Lisa was featured in the August 8th edition of VoyageChicago, a newspaper which specializes in publishing "Chcago's Most Inspring Stories".
Lisa is shown in the center of the photo above from the article, between Senior Living Expert consultants Kerry Quirin (L) and Nancy Siegel (R)
Shown below is a quote from Lisa in the article:"What sets us apart from our national competition is that we provide the in person tours. We have also been all of these properties many many times. And we usually are very familiar with the people that run them. Some are better than others and we know that even if a property is pretty, if they staff isn’t that great, it’s not going to work. We are way more hands on and personal. I like to say the national company is Walmart and we are Nordstrom. I used to work at Nordstrom many years ago, so I feel like I can say that. Anyone could really start this kind of business if they wanted to, and many people have even bought into franchises to do so. But they don’t always last because they don’t have the patience or the expertise."
You can read the entire article here:Meet Lisa Sneddon of Senior Living Experts
You may have noticed that Kerry, Nancy & Janet now all have CDP listed after their names. We are very pleased to announce that all three of them have earned the credentials to be Certified Dementia Practitioners!But what is that?It is an earned credential that recognizes the highest standard in Alzheimer’s and Dementia education has been achieved. The National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioner (NCCDP) establishes the guidelines. Each CDP completes extensive training in the areas of Alzheimer’s and Dementia. They learn about the key aspects of dementia care including : communication techniques, disruptive behavior intervention, tools for addressing concerns like wandering, aggressive behaviors and poor nutrition.The CDP certification represents that they all received comprehensive knowledge in the area of dementia care, completed the Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care course /seminar, met the NCCDP requirements for CDP certification, applied for the CDP certification and received the CDP certification.Some of the goals of a CDP (according to the NCCDP website) are:
We thought it was worth pursuing because it would help us expand our knowledge and better communicate solutions to the families we work with every day. It also helps us recognize best practices in the senior living communities in Chicago that we work with. Continuing education is part of the process, so we can continually stay current with trends, ethics, regulations, medications and new developments that pertain to Dementia. Congratulation to Kerry, Nancy & Janet!
This morning I was sent a copy of an article that was recently posted in the New York Times. It is about how the cost of elder care is practically bankrupting the children of seniors. It mentions that it is thought that our custom is to not take care of our elders, but like the article says, many families are doing so – financially. Unfortunately many baby boomers may find themselves with no money left over for their retirement let alone long term care.
Download eldercare_costs_deplete_savings_of_a_generation_new_york_times.pdf
Photo by RF._.studio from Pexels
When: Saturday, May 19 11:00am - 12:00 pm
Where: Brighton Gardens of Burr Ridge, 6801 High Grove Boulevard, Burr Ridge, IL 630-920-2900
Office Angie Zucchero, of the Burr Ridge Police Department will be giving a seminar on identity theft. Learn what it is, why it is so prevalent, how to protech yourself and your loved ones, and what to do if you are victimized. Handouts will be available and a Question & Answer session will follow.
Refreshments will be provided so don't miss this FREE and informative event!
RSVP to 630-920-2900
Photo by RF Studio/Pexels
Thinking of assisted living? Hinsdale area professionals say you should start long-term care planning now to ensure your wishes are in place later, when you may need some support. No one wants to think about a time when they may not be able to make decisions for themselves, but long-term planning now ensures your wishes are in place later, when you need to make your preferences known. Figuring out options may be difficult, but Senior Living Experts can direct you to resources, providers, and care that makes long-term planning viable, and a lot easier than going it alone.
All too often, seniors overlook long-term care and end-of-life planning which can cause great stress and havoc among survivors. Let your family know what to do if the time comes that you are unable to make your own decisions or convey your wishes. Leaving detailed instructions for family members is one way to ease the burdens of those surviving you.
Advance directives are basically written directions and instructions that convey the individual’s preferences related to medical decision-making, in case the senior is unable to communicate their wishes at the time. A living will is a type of advance directive that outlines and specifies the medical treatment that the senior prefers in the event they become incapacitated. This is also the time to designate someone else to have medical power of attorney, basically making the decisions on the senior’s behalf. Outlining your wishes in an advance directive, notarized and witnessed, will make difficult times a bit easier and without placing undue burdens and stress on those loved ones left behind.
It is estimated that 70% of the people in this country will require some sort of assisted-living or long-term care during their senior years. Make sure to clarify where you stand on such living situations and where you would like to go if you do need support and assistance later. Also, make sure to communicate a second viable option in the event your first-preference is unable to accommodate your needs at the time. Inform your partner, kids, and friends of where you will be most comfortable, should your needs require that you leave your current living situation.
Think about how you will preserve the quality of life and maintain independence as you age; will you need extra support? Putting resources aside to cover senior assistance services can help seniors age gracefully and relieve them of burdens that can impact life quality. For instance, senior assistance services will run errands, pick up groceries, drive to appointments, and serve as social engagement- which is all beneficial to the autonomous senior.
Though the topic makes many uncomfortable, there is no time like the present to share end-of-life wishes with your family and caregivers. Be cognizant of details, responsibilities, and choices, and document how you would want these addressed. Some end-of-life aspects to consider include:
There are many other areas to consider when making end-of-life choices now; make sure to consult with an experienced lawyer regarding estate planning issues and to notarize your legal documentation. Laws vary from state-to-state, so an attorney is in the best position to provide guidance on these matters.
Avoid the hassle and expense of a court-appointed executor after you die by designating an executor of your choice now. The money that these executors cost comes out of your estate- and will ultimately cost your survivors in the long run! By contrast, naming a relative, friend, or neighbor is less costly but make sure that you are designating someone who is reliable, responsible, and willing to fulfill the role when you are deceased. States may assert requirements and restrictions related to executors, so familiarize yourself with the specifics for your jurisdiction. Typically, executors must be over the age of 18 and some regions prohibit felons from serving as executors. Your executor doesn’t necessarily have to live in the same state as you, either. Your estate or probate attorney will be able to provide more information related to these guidelines.Don’t put off planning for your future and the possibility that you may need a little extra support when you age. Senior Living Experts can point you - and your caregivers - in the right direction to find options, resources, and alternatives that come together to fulfill your long-term plans, wishes, and preferences.
Dementia care in Schaumburg recognize treating pain in seniors can be tricky due to communication difficulties and fear. Consult with a geriatric provider for a thorough assessment.It is estimated that there are around 35 million seniors with dementia across the world, and approximately half of these individuals live with chronic pain. Chronic pain causes additional complications, especially for seniors with dementia, and can wreak havoc with medication management. The best approach is to reach out for specialized attention and treatment from those that work with older patients, and that is familiar with the earmarks of an underlying problem. Visit Senior Living Experts to schedule assessments and consults with providers in your area.
Seniors with dementia are often vague and ambivalent about pain, saying little and frequently unable to convey what they are experiencing. For this reason, it is necessary to provide a concrete and simplified means of expressing pain levels to their providers. This may be done with yes or no questions, careful observation, and a thorough health history from caregivers or family. It is important for these individuals to advocate for the senior and be persistent, and insist on further treatment to find the underlying causes when they believe their loved one is in pain or discomfort.
Loved ones and caregivers need to learn how to identify signs of pain, in seniors; these supports are in the best position to advocate for their senior since they are familiar with normal behaviors at base-line level of function. Watch for signs such as changes in behavior, constricted facial expressions, and mood swings; some other signs of pain in seniors with dementia include agitation, restlessness, and increased heart-rate. This discomfort and distress may be misinterpreted by providers that are unfamiliar with the senior, leading to inappropriate medications that could bring complications and risks to treatment and care of the patient.
Family in an invaluable resource when attempting to assess and treat seniors with dementia. These informal supports know the senior best, and can identify when something seems awry. Family should be involved and utilized in the treatment of seniors and when attempting to uncover if the patient is in pain, discomfort, or decline. Be wary of any provider or physician who overlooks family meetings or integration when seeing your senior. Online reviews from previous patients, caregivers, and professionals can often shed light on the most empathetic and effective providers, as well as tease-out any potential issues that they have experienced when under a provider’s care or privy to a loved one’s treatment.
Don’t run the risk of a provider without experience working with a geriatric population; visit a geriatric pain management professional for assessment and lab testing to rule out underlying causes of pain and discomfort. These providers will be able to identify and recognize issues specific to the senior, including the added obstacle of dementia, with specialized assessment tools that can help in diagnosing and treating your loved one. Be prepared to attend meetings with this specialist- and encourage caregivers to do the same- and take notes during appointments to ensure you have pertinent information that can make your senior more comfortable.Get past the obstacles of dementia to treat chronic and acute pain with a specialized geriatric provider. Senior Living Experts offers an online resource to assess and identify providers in your area that can navigate the tricky territory of co-occurring conditions in senior patients- including pain issues and dementia. Advocate for your loved one with providers to obtain assessments designed for seniors with dementia; this will help to uncover any underlying issues that could be contributing to your loved one’s discomfort.
We are so excited to welcome Clare Quirin, our SLE Summer Intern. Clare is a talented student at Grand Valley State University majoring in Film and Advertising, and will be helping SLE create meaningful content.
Welcome to the team, Clare!
"Don't wait until there's a crisis to gather important information."Recently Crain's Chicago Business published an article about talking to your parents about their finances as it relates to their retirement - and ultimately the care they may need later in life. The article caught my attention because two people we work with and like to refer families too were quoted in the article which was written by Jane Adler.Amie Hyman from Heartfelt Solutions for Seniors and Kerry Peck from Peck, Bloom LLC both gave some sound advice. The article contains six simple steps one can take to start the conversation and what to talk about.Know their net worth, create a family answer book, develop a cash flow statement, streamline finances, review monthly bills and understand estate plans.To read the full article follow the link belowhttp://www.chicagobusiness.com/decisions/give-estate-planning-assist.html
A photo of Kerry with Amie!
Everyday I learn something new that I feel needs to be shared with the rest of the world. It could be about a new support group, a lecture about elder abuse, a free seminar on hospice care or some information about Medicare Part D. I could not find anything on the web that shared this information so I thought I would start a blog and here we are.
I will try to update this information on a timely basis and include links to more resources and sites during my daily travels in the world of senior living. And if I go to a great concert, I might tell you about that just for fun.
Please feel free to post comments and share information that you know as well. It could be a real life story that when shared with another caregiver who might be reading will make them feel like they are not alone. I am open to suggestions and information on additional resources. Most of them will pertain to the Chicagoland area but some will be universal regardless of where the senior or their family lives.
Senior Living Experts advisors are asked questions about cost quite frequently. Last month, we decided to make your questions even more clear by interviewing one of our senior living advisors, Nancy Pappas, on some of the most common cost questions we get. Nancy can be reached at (847) 287-3623.
Q: What is the cost of senior living?
A: That depends on what type of care you need, and whether you need it in your home or outside of your home in a community. It will vary by the type of care that you need and what location you choose.
Q: What is the upfront fee?
A: Typically, you will find an upfront fee. There are two types. One is called an entrance fee which is also known as a buy-in for continuing care retirement communities. It offers you the promise of future healthcare along a continuum. Or, a month-to-month rental basis will typically require a community fee that is non-refundable to help pay for taking care of the common areas and getting the apartment back to its original form.
Q: Does the cost go up annually?
A: Yes. Typically the cost will go up anywhere from 3-6%. This allows communities to provide raises for their employees and keep up with their own expenses, just as when you have increased expenses when living at home.
Q: When are levels of care considered as a resident continues to live there?
A: That depends on the community that you choose. Some communities specifically specialize in one level of care, such as assisted living or memory care. Someone may also need nursing care which will be in a skilled nursing home or you can have a continuum care retirement community that starts with independent living and offers the entire continuum from assisted living and memory care through skilled nursing.
Q: What if mom moves in the middle of the month?
A: You should expect that your community can prorate your monthly cost if they move in the middle of the month.
Q: Do I have to provide financial documents?
A: It depends on the community. Month-to-month rentals typically do not require financial disposure. However, if you are moving into a continuing care retirement community with the future promise of healthcare and they will never ask you to leave because of financial hardship, they will require financial disposure.
Q: If I put down a large entrance fee, when do I get that back?
A: Sometimes you do, sometimes you don’t. There are different types of plans that offer high refundability. High refundability will keep your monthly fee on the higher end. If you go with the plan that goes to a 50% refundability or 0 refundability, you will find that your monthly fee will be kept lower. So, depending on where your income and your assets fall is a good determinant of which plan is best for you.
Q: What are my incidental expenses?
A: Incidental expenses are typically things like toiletries, incontinence products, or medications that are not covered by Medicare, that you are personally responsible for in an assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing facility. Senior Living Experts can be reached at 771-213-7212, and the advisors will be happy to answer any more of your questions about senior living! We are just a phone call away.
It's important to keep our minds and bodies busy as we age, which is why we've decided to offer some springtime activities for seniors in today's blog! Keeping active helps us age with better quality of life.
Not everyone can get outdoors and garden or enjoy physical activity in large amounts. However, being active includes both the mind and the body.
Seniors deserve to have intent & purpose. assisted living and/or caregiving should always include springtime activities for seniors that inspire them to enjoy life.
Photo by Tabeajaichhalt / Pixabay
Long-term care is very expensive. It really is unfortunate that many families and seniors think that Medicare will pay for their stay in an assisted living facility. Medicare is health insurance. It doesn’t care where you live or really where you are receiving the care.
I went over the range of costs in the last few posts, and also discussed that option of Supportive Living should a senior have no assists and Medicaid is their only option.
When I am trying to help a family find a solution I usually ask the following questions:
What do they think their budget is? How much income does the senior receive monthly (from social security, pensions or income from investments?)? What is the value or equity in their home and will they be selling to home to pay for the care? Is the senior a veteran or a widow of a veteran? (I will talk about this Aid and Attendance benefit in another post.) Do they have long term care insurance? Not many 80 and 90 years olds do, as it really wasn’t a product back when they would have been eligible to pay for it. Though I know many children who have run out and purchased it after seeing how much it will cost if they need long term care and they don’t want to burden their children. My final question is will the family be supplementing the cost in anyway? Some can and some cannot.
What I can never do is assume how much someone has or is willing to pay. I provide them with their options and the costs and it is up to them to determine the quality of care that they can afford.
Photo by Jahnae Neal from Pexels
That’s the title of the article in today’s CHICAGO TRIBUNE about my services. There is nothing like your first piece of press and to have it in the CHICAGO TRIBUNE on a SUNDAY… well, needless to say I am pretty excited. I actually bought the early edition yesterday since I couldn’t wait. But I had to wait until the online version came out to share it with you in my blog.
Here is the article, which I note is copyright 2006 by the Chicago Tribune and was written by Jane Adler, a Chicago-area freelance writer. Her article, 55 PLUS, is featured in the Sunday Real Estate section of the Tribune. I don't want any lawyers contacting me because I copied and pasted it. I did not write it. If I did, I would have left off the part about any other company that does (something similar but not as cool as) what I do.
Or, you can view it online by clicking here!
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55 PLUS
Free help to set up Mom, Pop
By Jane Adler
Special to the Tribune
Published December 17, 2006
Finding new housing for an elderly parent is never easy.
After her father died, Shelley Crosby worried about her 81-year-old mother who lived alone in Indiana. So Crosby was glad when her mother, Bettye Segraves, agreed to sell her home of 50 years and move to Chicago.
But mother and daughter faced a daunting search for housing. They weren't sure what buildings had vacancies or what type would be most appropriate for Segraves, who has a few health issues but is still independent. Also, Crosby has a busy job as artistic director at the American Girl Theater and didn't have a lot of time to devote to a housing search. "I didn't know what we were going to do," she said.
Help came from a service called Senior Living Experts Inc., a Chicago-based company that assists seniors and their families with housing selections.
After meeting Segraves, the Senior Living representative suggested a building for independent elders, with some services.
Mother and daughter toured three buildings and selected a one-bedroom apartment at the Breakers, a North Side building that offers meals and housekeeping. "Senior Living helped us narrow the housing choices," said Crosby. "It was a godsend."
Services are available to help seniors and their families navigate the maze of senior housing. Geriatric case managers and social-service agencies can help seniors find housing as part of an assessment of the individual's needs. There is also a handful of new services that offer housing advice.
Senior Living Experts was started about a year ago by Lisa Sneddon. In a typical case, Sneddon talks with the senior's adult daughter over the phone to find out how much care the senior needs. Sometimes, Sneddon meets with the senior. Then Sneddon arranges tours of several places. "Families get overwhelmed. So it's good for me to be there," said Sneddon.
Sneddon's service is free. Something like an apartment-finder service, Sneddon is paid a fee by the building the family selects. Sneddon works with buildings in the suburbs and city. But, she emphasizes, "I send people to places I do not have contracts with. It depends what [the senior] needs."
Another service is A Place for Mom, an online housing referral source. Like the other service, it's free. (The selected building pays the company a referral fee.)
A family member or senior can fill out an assessment at the Web site, and an adviser calls within 24 hours. Or, the family can call a toll-free number and talk to an adviser immediately. The adviser asks about the situation, what the elderly person needs and finances. "Once we have that information, then we give them a list of options that fit their parameters," said Sarah Bentz, marketing director at A Place for Mom, based in Seattle.
A Place for Mom works with about 11,000 buildings nationwide, Bentz said. That makes the service helpful for families who don't live nearby, she added.
It should be noted that these free housing services work with market-rate buildings. The services are meant for people who have the money to pay for an assisted living or retirement building, fairly expensive housing arrangements. If your parent has a low income, your best bet is to contact your area agency on aging .
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Copyright © 2006, Chicago Tribune
Photo by Jahnae Neal from Pexels
Wondering how Assisted Living and Nursing Homes (also known as skilled nursing facilities) differ and which might be best for your loved one? In the last post "Nursing Homes and Assisted Living Are Not The Same Thing!" we tried to show you that senior living facilities are not created equally. That means that nursing homes, and assisted living facilities differ from one another in some important ways. It’s important for you to know what care is available to your loved one across the board. This is called Activities of Daily Living, or ADL. These activities include bathing, dressing, and different types of personal care.
While mom may not need that care at the moment, it’s comforting to know that even the baseline care provided at these facilities is of high quality. Professionals at these facilities are there for you and your loved one, whenever needed. Below you can find out other examples of personal care that are provided at assisted living facilities and nursing homes, alike:
Type/ Example of Care Present in Both Assisted Living and Nursing Home
Medication Management Someone is always there to be sure mom takes the right medicine at the right time
Sense of Community Many opportunities to make friends, and feel emotionally, spiritually and physically uplifted
Supportive Services These include laundry, housekeeping, transportation and more!
Secure Environment From small things like grab bars and handrails in bathrooms to entire emergency call systems
Dietary Health Three well- balanced meals a day as well as nutritious snacks at all times
Let’s delve into ways in which care differs. The major differences exist in the care and services provided, and in the appearance of the facility:
Care and Services- Residents in nursing homes usually require around the clock care. This is because they typically live with more complex health conditions. That is why nursing homes come with nurses, therapists and even respiratory support. Contrastly, residents in an assisted living community generally require what’s called custodial care (hence, a different cost structure. check out our cost calculator). An example of this is memory care or help with moving from one location to another, or taking preventative measures to minimize falls.
Difference in build- This includes the layout and appearance of the institution. While a nursing home generally looks a little institutional because of the type of care provided, an assisted living usually resembles a normal apartment. Nursing home residents are more likely to share a room with another senior, since this expedites the ability to provide quality care. Residents in an assisted living community usually have their own apartment or suite.
Here's an excellent graphic from Brookdale Communities!
We hope this was helpful to you and that you can give some more thought to what type of facility might be the most fitting for your loved one!
Here is a great infographic I received last week with some information on fall prevention for older adults (or anyone really!) Enjoy!
Preventing Falls in Older Adults - Built by Easy Climber
Each year, in May, the Administration for Community Living celebrates Older Americans Month and we're "Celebrating Seniors" with them!
As you can see by their logo provided, this year's focus is "Blaze a Trail" and as a senior that can mean many things. Their focus is in 4 areas of making sure that you are the one to blaze a trail and create a new trend among your friends so they too enjoy their senior years.
1.Getting Involved With Your Community - Referred to as blazing a trail with civic engagement this trail focuses on making a difference within your community by being active and helping others. Here are some facts and ideas to blaze your trail:
2.Financial Security & Savvy - By now the majority of your planning is done; but, how do you guard what you've worked so hard for. Some areas of concern include:
3.Be the New Senior Role Model - Referred to as "Blazing a Trail to Reinvention" as part of the focus on Older Americans Month, this means that notice that people are living longer and better quality lives as we age.
4.Be Healthier as You Age - Often because we are living longer, we are also seeing an increase in chronic health issues. Here are some facts about how you can blaze the trail to wellness:
Senior Living Experts offers free services to help you find living conditions that embrace aging safely. Living alone increases the risk of death but accepting a style of living that encourages quality of life as you age can help you live a healthier, happier life
Some assisted living facilities in Chicago offer tips for traveling with an Alzheimer patient or loved one with dementia. Make your loved one comfortable and keep things calm amid your hectic holiday schedule- that likely includes travel. As the holidays approach, traveling may be necessary to visit family or friends away from home. When bringing your loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, make some accommodations and prepare to ensure everyone’s comfort during this festive time of year. If you need additional caregiver support, visit Senior Living Experts for a comprehensive list of resources in your region.
assisted living facilities in the area know the obstacles and hurdles to smooth-travel during the holidays- and anytime. Take advantage of their experience in caregiving for those with dementia and use their recommended strategies for a joyous journey:
Make sure to always carry medical records and medications with you; don’t trust them to checked-luggage or leave them behind. Also, buy an ID bracelet for your senior and make them wear it; have it inscribed with their name and contact information in the event they wander or become separated from you. Don’t rely on a drug store, pharmacy, or grocery on the road- instead, stock up before leaving home with the items your loved one needs and enjoys, such as snacks, drinks, bottled water, and hygiene products.
Keep travel at no more than four hours before stopping. Take frequent, lengthy breaks if possible. Also, try to keep visits with family or friends brief and frequent, and don’t plan too much. Take your time and try to maintain a calm, laid-back attitude. It may be best to keep seniors with advanced dementia symptoms closer to home, in familiar surroundings, and near trusted providers in the event of an emergency or crisis.
Plan-ahead and take time to explain to your loved one about the journey and reiterate as needed to avoid anxiety later. If you are planning on visiting family or dear friends, let them know that your senior struggles at times with dementia, in the event you need to change plans or shorten visits. Keep communication open, honest, and use humor in situations that may seem awkward or uncomfortable for anyone. Remember to enjoy spending this time with your senior and that they cannot help exhibiting symptoms associated with their condition, whether it be forgetfulness or aphasia during conversations.
Remember to give your loved one with dementia some space during travel and trips away from home. Provide privacy and a place to decompress after busy days on the road; opt for a quiet hotel rather than the hectic home of a friend, for instance. Don’t leave your loved one unassisted in unfamiliar surroundings, however, as it can be disorienting to those with dementia symptoms. It may make sense to assign a buddy to your loved one to keep an eye and lend a hand as needed during the journey.
Bring some familiar items to distract and calm an anxious senior during travel; carry snacks, water, and any other items that will make your senior comfortable during the journey. It may also be helpful to bring some things that can help to ground and orient your senior, such as old photos, books, or plush toys. These items will be recognizable to your loved one and can provide some comfort during times of stress or anxiety.
It is critical to take care of yourself when caregiving for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia, especially during travel or on trips. It can help to make sure that you are your best self with adequate rest, good nutrition, and a clear head. Choose not to over-imbibe in holiday cheer when traveling with your loved one or caregiving for someone with dementia. Enlist the help of others traveling along in caregiving and assisting your loved one during events, family gatherings, or visits. This will give you some time to rest and recharge during a busy schedule and many responsibilities.
Use these tips to keep your journey safe and enjoyable- for all. Use the expertise of Chicago’s finest assisted living facilities to create a calm and comfortable environment for your loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, which equates to less stress and fewer symptoms during the trip.If you are looking for a practitioner to help your loved one with dementia, visit Senior Living Experts online resource to find providers and supports in the area. Enjoy traveling this holiday season with your senior, and use these tips to create fond memories for later.
Seniors and hoarding is a more common problem than you may realize. Referred to as Diogenes Syndrome or Senile Squalor Syndrome, seniors who may have never lived in hoarding conditions can become affected; changing the lives of everyone involved.
There are a variety of possible reasons why an aging parent or loved one starts hoarding.
There are a number of ways to approach and deal with seniors and hoarding. Utilizing a service such as Senior Living Experts can be an option that offers an unbiased third party that can present alternative solutions to help remove them from their current unsafe conditions and lifestyle.Options can include:
The dangers of hoarding can be life threatening for anyone, but especially for seniors; creating unsanitary conditions and obvious fall risks. Seniors and hoarding needs to be addressed before the problem becomes too overwhelming for everyone involved. Photo by misteraitch
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Your expert advisor will accumulate information necessary for proper placement, such as your needs, location, and budget.
We provide numerous recommendations based on the details provided. Our goal is to combine your needs with our knowledge of senior communities.
Your advisor will accompany you on tours so your search can be as thorough as possible. We want what’s best for your loved ones just as much as you do.
After a choice has been made and your loved one has moved into their new home, we will continuously check in to make sure everything is going well.
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Together, let’s begin the journey to finding the home that will enhance the life of your family.
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