Archive for year: 2023

Dementia is a silent epidemic that’s affecting the lives of millions of Americans. Unfortunately, there’s still no cure for this debilitating condition, so the next best thing that families can do is to move their family member into memory assisted living.

The primary goal of any memory assisted living facility is to create a safe and secure environment for residents. But what exactly does that entail?

Key Elements of a Safe Environment in Memory Assisted Living

Every memory assisted living facility should have these five key elements to ensure safety and security among residents:

Well-guarded entry and exits.

• A lot of patients living with dementia are prone to wandering off, so it’s very important for facilities to have secured entry and exit points.

Emergency systems.

• Residents should have access to emergency response systems whenever they need help. This can be a call button or a pull cord in their rooms.

Fall preventive measures.

• Since most residents are at a higher risk for falls, it’s very important for memory assisted living facilities to be equipped with efficient fall prevention measures. For instance, rooms and hallways should be adequately lit and bathrooms should have non-slip floors.

Fire safety measures.

• All memory assisted living facilities should follow the standards set by their state’s fire safety regulations. Aside from well-placed fire extinguishers and accessible fire exits, it’s also essential for staff to be trained about fire safety protocols and how to secure residents in the event of a fire.

The Importance of Staff Training in Memory Assisted Living

Staff play a crucial role in keeping residents safe and secure. This is why it’s very important to train them in different areas where they can provide the best care possible to residents:

• All staff should be trained and licensed based on the standards set by the state. They should specialize in caring for residents with Alzheimer’s and undergo regular training to update their knowledge. Whether they’re the primary caregivers or assistants, they should be able to pass the necessary qualifications.
• All staff should know how to perform basic CPR and other first aid measures. They should also learn how to manage behaviors in patients with dementia and offer them support when dealing with behavioral struggles.

Finally, staff should be committed to caring for patients daily and giving them the comfort and security that they need. Living with Alzheimer’s and other related dementias is not easy, especially for the elderly.

They also need to deal with the huge change of moving into a completely different living environment. Staff should be able to give them the space they need to be as independent as possible.

 

Looking for excellent memory care in Lincoln, 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

As the field of memory care assisted living continues to evolve, innovative technologies and approaches are transforming the way seniors are treated and supported. From virtual reality experiences to advanced brain training programs, these trends are redefining the landscape of senior care in Nebraska and beyond.

Latest Trends in Memory Care Assisted Living

Enhancing Lives through Virtual Reality: A Glimpse into a New Reality

Virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a powerful tool in memory care assisted living. VR offers a unique way to engage and stimulate residents’ minds. Seniors experiencing cognitive decline often struggle with isolation and a disconnect from the world around them. VR technology allows travel to distant places, revisiting cherished memories, and even participating in activities that were once routine.

Through carefully curated VR experiences, residents can explore historical landmarks, walk down the streets of their hometowns, or journey to their favorite vacation spots. These immersive experiences provide a sense of adventure while promoting cognitive stimulation by encouraging residents to interact with their environment. The use of VR in assisted living is proving to be a powerful tool for enhancing residents’ quality of life, fostering a sense of purpose, and reducing feelings of loneliness.

Training the Brain for Resilience: Unleashing the Potential of Neuroplasticity

Brain training programs have gained significant traction in memory care assisted living communities. They focus on leveraging the brain’s remarkable ability to adapt and rewire itself – a phenomenon known as neuroplasticity. These programs offer tailored exercises and activities designed to challenge different cognitive functions, such as memory, attention, and problem-solving.

Neuroplasticity-based brain training exercises involve activities like puzzles, word games, and memory recall tasks. These exercises not only aim to slow down cognitive decline but also to improve overall cognitive functioning. The brain’s adaptability allows residents to create new neural pathways. This can compensate for damaged ones and potentially improve cognitive abilities over time. As a result, seniors in memory care assisted living communities are experiencing a renewed sense of confidence and accomplishment.

Creating Personalized Care Plans: Tailoring Approaches to Individual Needs

One of the most significant shifts in memory care assisted living is the emphasis on personalized care plans. Every resident’s journey with cognitive impairment is unique. It’s crucial to adopt an individualized approach that respects their preferences, history, and strengths. By focusing on specific needs, care providers can develop customized interventions that maximize cognitive function and quality of life.

Personalized care plans often integrate a combination of innovative techniques, including VR experiences, brain training programs, art, music, and reminiscence therapy. These tailored interventions provide a holistic approach to memory care, addressing emotional, cognitive, and social aspects of residents’ lives. As a result, seniors benefit from a more comprehensive and compassionate approach to memory care.

Memory Care Assisted Living Wrap Up

In conclusion, the latest trends in memory care assisted living are reshaping the landscape of senior care. Through the power of VR, residents can embark on virtual journeys and experiences that foster a sense of connection with the world. Neuroplasticity-based brain training programs are tapping into the brain’s potential for growth, enabling seniors to enhance their cognitive abilities and maintain their independence. Lastly, the focus on personalized care plans underscores the importance of treating each resident as an individual, with unique needs and preferences.

As memory care assisted living continues to evolve, it’s important for communities to embrace these innovative trends and provide residents with the resources they need to lead fulfilling lives. By staying at the forefront of technology and personalized care approaches, senior living communities in Nebraska can make a significant impact on the well-being of their residents.

 

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

The fine weather and bright sunshine are just some of the reasons many nursing home residents look forward to summer. In fact, there are so many activities that residents in nursing homes can enjoy during this time of year.

The Best Summertime Activities for Nursing Homes

 

Prepare a picnic.

• Take advantage of outdoor space with family or fellow residents. Summer is the best time to let the seniors enjoy the outdoors where they can get loads of vitamins from the sun, enjoy a change of scenery, and have fun.

 

You can go for an afternoon picnic when the sun is not as hot. Prepare a spread for everyone to enjoy and of course, some games and activities that will make this event more meaningful to residents.

 

Go for a walk.

• Summer is the perfect time for seniors to get some steps in. Instead of just staying inside their rooms or in communal spaces, residents can enjoy early morning or afternoon walks around the nursing home to give them a boost of energy and improve their bone health.

 

Go for a swim.

 

• If the nursing home has a pool, organizing swimming exercises for residents would be a great time for them to enjoy being in the water while also giving them good exercise without being harsh on their muscles and joints.

Summer Safety Tips for Seniors in Nursing Homes

 

Limit sun exposure.

• Although it feels great to be outdoors, staying out for too long could also be dangerous for seniors in nursing homes. When planning activities, make sure to time them when the sun isn’t too hot yet and give residents breaks in between.

 

Keep residents in nursing homes hydrated.

 

• Hydration is key to keeping residents safe and healthy during the summer. Make sure that they drink at least eight glasses of water daily, especially when they’re spending time under the sun. Give them water breaks in between to make sure they’re keeping themselves hydrated even if they don’t feel thirsty yet.

 

Give time for rest.

 

• The heat of the sun and the humidity can easily make residents in nursing homes feel tired. So, give them adequate time to rest and recharge by scheduling and planning activities properly. It’s also very important to make sure that they take their medications and check if they have prescriptions that make them extra sensitive to the sun.

Finally, don’t hesitate to use air conditioning in the nursing home, especially during the peak of summer when the air can get hot. As a facility, it’s essential to put the safety and comfort of residents on top of the priorities, and having air conditioning can really help them stay comfortable during the hot season.

Also, be vigilant for the signs of a heat stroke or any other heat-related illness to avoid or treat them before they get worse.

 

Looking for excellent care in Nebraska? Click here to learn 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

Socialization and community are fundamental aspects of human life regardless of age, background, and status. These two bear prominence in promoting overall wellness and quality of life for humans, especially for individuals living in memory care assisted living.

In assisted living, senior residents with memory-related conditions can find it challenging to keep social connections and a sense of community. Socialization and community are crucial for our physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

They both enhance personal growth, boost resilience, and contribute to a happier life. By actively engaging in social situations, humans can reap numerous benefits. Let’s get into the goal of memory-assisted living and the benefits of socialization.

The Goal of Memory Care Assisted Living

Memory Care Living facilities provide specialized care and support for individuals suffering from memory impairment like Alzheimer’s and dementia. These institutions cater to the unique needs and challenges faced by memory-impaired individuals through a safe and enriching environment.

They work to provide a secure place to reduce the risks of wandering or accidents. Memory assisted living uses the latest technology in safety and security like alarmed doors and state-of-the-art monitoring systems.

Plus the amount of care and services vary depending on the stage of their cognitive problem. Programs and care services can vary for people in the early stage of the disease and can become more intensive in the final stages. Carers are specially trained in memory care strategies to ensure they can provide appropriate care, assistance, and support.

From specialized care and support, cognitive stimulation programs and activities, social engagement, structured routine, and family involvement, memory care assisted living facilities’ goal is to promote a nurturing and supportive environment. These are achieved through carers’ and staff members who are well-equipped with the knowledge, technique, and experience to understand the emotional challenges faced by residents with memory impairment.

With the carers’ and members’ knowledge and understanding, memory care facilities provide compassionate care and emotional support for a more meaningful life.

The Benefits of Socialization & Community

For people experiencing dementia or Alzheimer’s, socialization can be more beneficial. It allows people with memory problems to remember things and be in the present. Socialization by engaging in activities and programs can reduce signs of loneliness and isolation. It can also boost the immune system and reduce stress.

Socialization and community both support brain stimulation, allowing the brain to retain memories. It helps keep the brain constantly stimulated, keeping the brain sharp while at the same time increasing the brain’s ability to manage emotions.

Regular interaction also helps individuals in memory care assisted living to maintain and improve their communication skills. Group activities and conversations can foster listening skills, comprehension, and verbal expression.

Socialization and community help residents in memory care to express themselves through their stories, and experiences while reducing also behavioral symptoms like agitation and wandering.

Overall, socialization and community enhance the quality of life of people with memory impairment. By creating and implementing social programs and a supportive community, their well-being is enhanced.

 

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

A lot of memory care assisted living communities do celebrate Mother’s Day. They may host special events, such as potluck lunches, craft activities, or musical performances. They may also decorate the community with flowers, balloons, and other festive decorations. And they may encourage family members to visit their loved ones on Mother’s Day.

 

Celebrating Mother’s Day in a memory care assisted living community can be a meaningful way for residents to connect with their loved ones and feel appreciated. It can also be a way for families to come together and support each other.

 

If you are considering a memory care assisted living community for your loved one, be sure to ask about their plans for Mother’s Day. You may also want to suggest some of your own ideas.

 

Mother’s Day in Memory Care Assisted Living

 

Holidays are a time for celebration, and they can be especially meaningful for seniors living in assisted living. Holidays can provide a sense of normalcy and routine, which can be helpful for seniors with dementia or other cognitive impairments. They can also provide an opportunity for seniors to connect with their loved ones and make new friends.

 

Here are some of the benefits of celebrating holidays in memory care assisted living:

 

• Holidays can provide a sense of normalcy and routine. For seniors with dementia or other cognitive impairments, holidays can provide a sense of familiarity and comfort. They can help seniors to feel connected to their past and to the present.

 

• Holidays can provide an opportunity for seniors to connect with their loved ones. Holidays are a time for families to come together, and they can be a great way for seniors to connect with their loved ones. Visiting with family members can help seniors to feel loved and supported.

 

• Holidays can provide an opportunity for seniors to make new friends. Assisted living communities often host holiday events that are open to the public. These events can be a great way for seniors to meet new people and make new friends.

 

• Holidays can provide a sense of joy and happiness. Holidays are a time to celebrate, and they can be a great way for seniors to experience joy and happiness. Holidays can provide a much-needed break from the everyday routine and can help seniors to feel more positive and optimistic.

 

If you are considering an assisted living community for your loved one, be sure to ask about their holiday celebrations. Many communities offer a variety of holiday-themed events and activities that can help seniors to enjoy the holidays.

 

Ways to Celebrate in Memory Care Assisted Living

 

There are so many ways to celebrate Mother’s Day in memory care assisted living, which include the following:

Go out to enjoy brunch.

• This is an excellent way to spend quality time with one another to enjoy the holiday.

Plant some flowers.

• You can enjoy a tableside activity by planting a few pots of flowers or herbs outside which is good if you have mobility issues.

Organize a family album.

• You might be able to use some old family pictures by putting them together in a family album. This can be quite an excellent way to bring back happy memories with your mother.

 

The most important thing is to choose activities that will be meaningful to the residents and that will help them to feel special and appreciated.

 

Looking for excellent care in Nebraska? Click here to learn more about memory care at 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