Memory Assisted Living

Activities and Therapies in Memory Assisted Living: Enhancing the Quality of Life

/in /by

Memory Assisted Living communities in Nebraska commit to providing special care and support for individuals with memory-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. These conditions can be challenging for both residents and their families. But, with a person-centered approach with activities and therapies, the quality of life for residents can be significantly improved. In this article, we will explore the various activities and therapies that are specifically designed to enhance cognitive function and overall well-being in memory assisted living communities.

Person-Centered Activities in Memory Assisted Living

In memory care, one of the fundamental principles is recognizing the unique needs and preferences of each resident. Person-centered care focuses on understanding individual histories, interests, and abilities to create meaningful and engaging activities. Here are some examples of person-centered activities in memory assisted living:

Reminiscence Therapy:

Reminiscence therapy encourages residents to recall and share their life stories and memories. This not only strengthens their connection to the past but also fosters a sense of identity and self-worth. Group discussions, family photo albums, and storytelling sessions can trigger positive memories and emotions, promoting cognitive function and emotional well-being.

Art and Music Therapy:

Music and art have the power to transcend language barriers and reach deep within the human soul. Art therapy allows residents to express themselves through painting, drawing, and other creative mediums. Music therapy, on the other hand, can stimulate memories and emotions, even in individuals with advanced memory loss. Activities like singing, dancing, and playing musical instruments can be both therapeutic and enjoyable for residents.

Sensory Stimulation in Memory Assisted Living:

Engaging the senses is essential for residents in memory assisted living. Activities like aromatherapy, tactile sensory bins with various textures, and sensory gardens provide opportunities for residents to explore their surroundings and stimulate their senses. Sensory stimulation enhances residents’ cognitive function and can help reduce anxiety and agitation.

Cognitive Games and Puzzles:

Keeping the mind active is crucial for individuals with memory-related conditions. Memory care communities often incorporate cognitive games and puzzles into their daily routines. Activities such as crossword puzzles, memory games, and Sudoku can help maintain cognitive skills and improve memory retention.

Therapeutic Approaches to Enhance Well-Being

Therapies in memory assisted living focus on improving residents’ overall well-being, addressing not only cognitive health but also emotional and physical needs. Here are some therapeutic approaches that have been proven to be beneficial for individuals with memory-related conditions:

Occupational Therapy:

Occupational therapy in memory care helps residents maintain their independence in daily activities. These therapists work with individuals to develop strategies that enable them to engage in daily tasks like dressing, eating, and personal grooming. This therapy helps residents feel more in control of their lives and can reduce frustration and anxiety.

Validation Therapy:

Validation therapy is an empathetic approach to communication that acknowledges and respects the feelings and reality of individuals with memory conditions. Rather than trying to correct or challenge their beliefs, validation therapy seeks to provide emotional support and comfort. It helps residents feel understood and accepted, which can lead to reduced stress and increased well-being.

Pet Therapy in Memory Assisted Living:

The companionship of animals can have a remarkable impact on residents with memory-related conditions. Pet therapy, where residents interact with therapy animals, can reduce feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression. The presence of animals often triggers positive memories and emotions, leading to improved overall quality of life.

Memory Assisted Living Wrap-Up

In conclusion, memory assisted living communities in Nebraska are dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for residents with memory-related conditions. By offering a wide range of person-centered activities and therapeutic approaches, these communities provide not only cognitive stimulation but also emotional support and physical well-being. Through reminiscence therapy, art and music therapy, sensory stimulation, cognitive games, and various therapeutic approaches like occupational therapy, validation therapy, and pet therapy, residents can find joy, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose in their daily lives. The holistic approach to memory care is a testament to the commitment of memory assisted living communities to ensuring that residents live their best lives, despite the challenges of memory-related conditions.

 

Looking for excellent care in Nebraska? Click here to learn more about Fallbrook Assisted Living!

Fallbrook Assisted Living is proud to offer its services to Fremont, NE, and surrounding areas and cities: Arlington, Cedar Bluffs, Ames Nickerson, Fontanelle, Arlington, Leshara, Colon, and Hooper

Memory Care Assisted Living

The Green Movement in Senior Housing: Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Living

/in /by

In recent years, the senior housing industry has seen a significant shift towards more sustainable and eco-friendly living options. This growing trend reflects not only a commitment to reducing our environmental footprint but also an understanding of the benefits of such practices for seniors’ overall well-being. In this article, we will explore the green movement in senior housing, highlighting the various ways in which living facilities in Nebraska are embracing sustainable and eco-friendly living.

The Senior Housing Industry’s Environmental Responsibility

Senior housing communities in Nebraska and across the nation are increasingly recognizing the importance of environmental responsibility. This newfound emphasis on sustainability can be attributed to several factors, including the rising awareness of climate change, the desire to cut energy costs, and the ever-increasing focus on improving residents’ quality of life.

One significant aspect of the green movement in senior housing is the construction and operation of eco-friendly buildings. Green facilities prioritize energy-efficient designs, which not only reduce operational costs but also decrease their impact on the environment. By using high-quality insulation, energy-efficient windows, and HVAC systems, these facilities are able to provide a comfortable living environment while also reducing energy consumption.

Eco-Friendly Practices within Senior Housing

Green senior living facilities in Nebraska are taking several steps to incorporate eco-friendly practices into their daily operations:

Renewable Energy Sources:

Many facilities are investing in renewable energy sources such as solar panels and wind turbines. These sources of clean energy not only reduce the facility’s carbon footprint but also help lower energy costs, which can benefit both the environment and the residents.

Sustainable Landscaping:

Communities are paying close attention to their outdoor spaces, with an increasing focus on sustainable landscaping. This involves the use of native plants, efficient irrigation systems, and practices that reduce water usage and the need for harmful pesticides and fertilizers. Landscaping with native plants also supports local wildlife and creates an aesthetically pleasing environment for residents.

Waste Reduction and Recycling:

Green facilities implement comprehensive recycling programs to reduce waste going to landfills. They encourage residents to recycle and provide easily accessible recycling stations throughout the community. Additionally, waste reduction measures are integrated into daily practices, from the use of reusable dining ware to minimizing single-use plastics.

Water Conservation:

Conserving water is crucial in the green movement within senior housing. Facilities are installing low-flow faucets and toilets, as well as utilizing rainwater harvesting systems for irrigation. These measures not only reduce water bills but also help preserve this precious resource.

Senior Housing &Healthy Indoor Environments:

Creating a healthy indoor environment is paramount for senior housing. Green facilities prioritize air quality by using low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints and materials, as well as efficient air filtration systems. This ensures that residents breathe cleaner air and enjoy a more comfortable living space.

In summary, the green movement represents a significant shift towards more sustainable and eco-friendly living options in Nebraska. Communities are recognizing their environmental responsibility by implementing eco-friendly practices in construction, daily operations, and resident engagement. The adoption of renewable energy sources, sustainable landscaping, waste reduction and recycling, water conservation, and the creation of healthy indoor environments not only benefits the environment but also enhances the quality of life for seniors. As the demand for eco-friendly senior housing options continues to grow, Nebraska’s senior housing industry is well-poised to lead the way in sustainable and environmentally responsible living.

Fallbrook Assisted Living is proud to offer its services to Fremont, NE, and surrounding areas and cities: Arlington, Cedar Bluffs, Ames Nickerson, Fontanelle, Arlington, Leshara, Colon, and Hooper

Memory Assisted Living

Alzheimer’s Care Facilities Safety: Preventing Wandering and Ensuring Security

/in /by

Maintaining safety and security for residents in Alzheimer’s care facilities is crucial, On top of their dedicated staff, security tools and strategies must be put in place to ward off residents from wandering and prevent injuries.

Care facilities for dementia must prioritize these essentials to protect their residents. Not only will these security tools protect the elders from serious risks but also their overall well-being. By creating a safe environment, you are also giving families of residents with Alzheimer’s the peace of mind in cases of wandering or injury.

The Importance of Safety in Alzheimer’s Care Facilities

Alzheimer’s is an enduring condition that will gradually disintegrate the cognitive functions or abilities of those suffering from it. Performing a simple task will be impossible in the long run, and there will be difficulty in communicating as well as weird changes in behavior.

Over time, it can be difficult to take care of a family member with Alzheimer’s in terms of having a safety-proof home. Constant supervision and ensuring the loved ones’ welfare can be overwhelming, and this is when Alzheimer’s facilities come into play.

An Alzheimer’s facility can provide round-the-clock supervision and a safe environment, designed for people with this irreversible condition. Memory care facilities are equipped with perimeter fences, monitoring devices, locked entries, and 24/7 alert systems to make residents feel more relaxed and enjoy their independence a little longer.

Skilled and properly-trained staff are key persons as well in making the lives of the residents safe. Caregivers provide support to the residents’ daily needs and activities. These include eating, safe bathroom use, bathing, medicine management, and social and memory-stimulating activities.

Incorporating a modern approach to security in Alzheimer’s Care Facilities is paramount to minimize the safety risks. Extra security and precautionary measures are there to compensate for the change in behavior the disease causes.

Preventing Wandering and Ensuring Security

Wandering is a common sign of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Wandering can be dangerous for an individual and causes distress for families and caregivers. While this is high-risk, there are steps Alzheimer’s Care Facilities can take to eliminate or lessen wandering among residents.

First, is to create a safe environment like the use of fences, gates, and keypad entries on all doors. Alarm systems keep staff alert to potential wandering.

Make use of tracking technology like wristbands to discreetly monitor patients or residents. Routine checks and headcounts by staff are also helpful in identifying missing patients quickly.

Stairs, kitchens, gardens, and hazardous areas must remain secure to protect residents.

Medicine cabinets must also remain secure to prevent overdose or abuse.

Providing activities throughout the day can reduce behaviors like irritability or wandering and enhance the quality of life.

 

Looking for excellent memory care in Nebraska? Click here to learn more about Fallbrook Assisted Living!

Fallbrook Assisted Living is proud to offer its services to Fremont, NE, and surrounding areas and cities: Arlington, Cedar Bluffs, Ames Nickerson, Fontanelle, Arlington, Leshara, Colon, and Hooper

Assisted Living

Preparing for Thanksgiving in Assisted Living

/in /by

Thanksgiving is an important event but can be a challenge for those living in assisted living facilities. The same goes for families who try to balance the celebration while at the same time dealing with the essential needs of their loved ones.

With time and careful consideration and preparation, residents, staff, families, and assisted living communities can have creative and meaningful ways to participate in this yearly festivity to celebrate the harvest and other blessings of the previous year.

Holidays in Assisted Living: What to Expect

Despite being in assisted living, residents can still have a joyful celebration. Any event is an opportunity to celebrate and socialize, minimizing the feeling of loss and isolation.

If your loved one is in an assisted facility, here is what you can expect for the upcoming Thanksgiving.

Many assisted apartments decorate, plan activities, and prepare meals intended for this special day. Feast your eyes on colorful decorations, and arts and crafts made by residents. Social halls, dining areas, and walkways will be filled with holiday decorations and themed arts.

Community celebrations are common to get everyone into the holiday spirit. Live entertainment, music, or performances not only help Thanksgiving more celebratory but also provide mental stimulation, evoke happy memories, and encourage social interaction.

During holidays, most assisted communities invite family and friends. This open house set-up allows residents to spend time with their loved ones and share traditions. As a tradition focused on family togetherness, spending it with loved ones uphold this cultural tradition, strengthens family bond, create memories, and provide comfort and support, especially for family members adjusting to life in assisted living.

Being in assisted facilities does not mean altering Thanksgiving practices. With planning, compassion, and giving time for your loved one, the celebration can be meaningful and unforgettable.

Preparing for Thanksgiving in Assisted Living

With 3 more Thursdays left before Thanksgiving, it is right to start planning so residents can participate in the spirit of this celebration.

Card crafting

This may be old, but card crafting is a golden way to show you care for the person. You can draw, cut pictures, and just be creative in expressing what you feel for the person you love. Encourage family members to participate because just being around can do wonders.

Family Recipe Competition

What a fun way to showcase the family’s best recipes by doing a cooking competition. Choose a category like dessert or appetizer. Vote who has the best entry and share the food for everyone to enjoy.

Assisted Living Virtual Celebration

If you have family members who cannot make it to the celebration, wireless technology will make everyone come together. You can host a virtual party with games and other activities everyone can join in on.

Play Games

Enjoy classic board games, which is perfect for everyone to get engaged. This can be a casual game or a competition to show off everyone’s skills. Make it more fun by giving prizes.

Take a Trip Down Memory Lane

Share family stories to spark conversation and pique the interest of younger generations. This is also the perfect time for adults to bring back cherished memories while allowing the younger family members to share what they love most about Thanksgiving.

 

Looking for excellent senior care in Nebraska? Click here to learn more about Fallbrook Assisted Living!

Fallbrook Assisted Living is proud to offer its services to Fremont, NE, and surrounding areas and cities: Arlington, Cedar Bluffs, Ames Nickerson, Fontanelle, Arlington, Leshara, Colon, and Hooper