Assisted Living

Winter Wellness Tips for Assisted Living Residents

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Staying physically active during winter in Assisted Living

The winter season can be particularly challenging for seniors for several reasons. The colder and darker days can lead to feelings of depression and isolation. Given the risks associated with winter, assisted living communities are getting more creative in offering a warm environment to their residents, allowing them to remain engaged and active throughout the winter months.

Physical activities have proven beneficial in weight management, maintaining strong muscles and bones, reducing risks of chronic diseases, improving mood and boosting energy, and improving brain function and memory. However, the colder and shorter days can challenge maintaining an active lifestyle. But with a bit of creativity, there are still ways to keep residents in assisted living to keep on going and aiming for better health.

Here are some practical tips to remain active during the winter.

  • Use technology. Use the Internet and gadgets to participate in virtual exercise classes. You can also watch online videos for light exercises, yoga, aerobics, or other physical programs suitable to your physical capability.
  • Plan your daily activities and where to inject your daily exercise program. It does not have to be intense. Simple chair dips, squats, leg lifts, or sitting up and down for 15 minutes daily can make a difference.
  • Painting, knitting, and drawing are indoor activities that do not require much physical energy but keep your mind and body active. Express yourself through creativity and improve your mood through arts and crafts.
  • Try puzzles, card games, and other board games to stimulate the mind and motor skills.
  • Try indoor gardening to add life to your windows and assisted living space. It helps boost your mood and connect with nature.
  • Decorate your private and shared spaces fitting for occasions during the winter months. Make these spaces warm and cozy, where everyone can relax and connect with other residents.

Promoting mental well-being in Assisted Living

The colder weather and limited mobility due to the harsh conditions leading to social isolation can contribute to feelings of anxiety and sadness for seniors in assisted living.

See below for suggestions to promote mental well-being during the winter season.

  • Use light therapy
  • Open blinds to let natural light in
  • If possible, go for short outdoor walks. Just make sure to bundle up and stay within the facility premises to avoid risks of falls and injuries.
  • Do yoga or meditation
  • Spend more time with family and friends.
  • Eat healthy, balanced meals.
  • Get enough sleep by limiting screen time.
  • Light scented candles and make your bedroom cozy

Nutrition and hydration during colder months

Other than mental health, it is also crucial for senior residents to maintain proper hydration and nutrition.

  • Eat Vitamin C and Vitamin D-rich foods to boost the immune system, like citrus fruits, such as ranges, berries, salmon, and tuna, for your source of Vitamin D.
  • Drink warm beverages and soups like tea and casseroles.
  • Limit caffeine and salt intake as these have dehydrating effects.
  • Lastly, consult a dietician for appropriate guidelines on how to stay hydrated during winter.

By taking these steps, you can ensure your residents are happy and nourished during winter. To learn about Fallbrook Assisted Living, click here!

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

Facilities for Alzheimer’s

How to Spread Holiday Cheer in Facilities for Alzheimer’s

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Adapting holiday traditions for residents with Alzheimer’s

People always look forward to holiday celebrations with family and friends, celebrating traditions and creating new memories. However, for those with Alzheimer’s, things can be different from what they used to love doing. They may have trouble remembering things, dates, faces, and doing simple tasks, which can be frustrating. The holiday season may also be overwhelming for families and caregivers responsible for caring for their loved one’s unique needs. But by creating a well-thought-out plan, the holiday can still be enjoyable and meaningful for everyone and loved ones in facilities for Alzheimer’s.

  • Always consider your loved ones’ physical and mental limitations. Activities should match their abilities, but they should also be fun for everyone.
  • Always introduce your plans to loved ones and caregivers to make necessary adjustments, particularly in their daily routines. You may also introduce photos of family members or friends to make loved ones more oriented.
  • Make the holiday celebration simple and intimate. Or better yet, stick to traditions that are familiar to them to avoid disruption, overstimulation, and unnecessary stress.
  • Always have a contingency plan, such as a quiet room for your loved one to retreat to when things or the environment become too hectic.
  • Limit your holiday activities to a few hours and, if possible, during the daytime to avoid agitation.
  • Prepare dishes that are familiar to loved ones and meals that they enjoy.

Accommodating their needs with love, patience, and understanding can make a big difference in your holiday celebrations.

Activities that bring joy and connection in Facilities for Alzheimer’s

Physical activities and social engagements are not only beneficial for the body but also for the mental and overall wellness of residents in facilities for Alzheimer’s. Regular physical and social activities can improve cognitive function, give a sense of accomplishment, promote independence, improve communication skills, and alleviate signs of loneliness and other dementia-related symptoms.

  • Simple morning or afternoon walks can boost muscle strength, flexibility, and balance. Walking is also known to lower symptoms of anxiety and depression. It also improves pain caused by chronic illnesses, manages blood sugar, and improves stamina.
  • Dancing is an activity almost everyone enjoys. Dancing should be a part of your holiday gatherings. Simple dance movements build muscle strength, improve bone health, flexibility, and balance, and provide more opportunities for social interaction.
  • Movie nights in a group with family and fellow residents are excellent ways to appreciate art and celebrate friendships. Line up a few Christmas-themed movies, popular and old, to awaken memories and evoke emotions.
  • Arrange decorating sessions for senior residents, allowing them to express themselves. Encourage families to join in this fun activity. Before the actual day, ask residents about their favorite decorations to help them anticipate the upcoming celebrations.
  • Virtual tours are excellent choices for loved ones with mobility issues. They can use technology to watch live streams or join immersive tours, allowing them to visit and discover new places from the comfort of their memory care quarters.

Other than these suggested activities, always consider the residents’ preferences and interests so these can be incorporated into facilities for Alzheimer’s calendar of activities.

Supporting staff and caregivers during the holiday season

The holiday season can be challenging for caregivers and memory care staff. The physical and mental stress of taking care of seniors with unique needs can take a significant toll on their well-being. Let them feel that they are loved and appreciated through these suggestions below.

  • Saying heartfelt “thank you” can go a long way. You do not have to be grand. Just show them you appreciate their dedication and effort. You can take it up a notch by giving tokens or simple thank-you cards.
  • Make time to take care of your loved ones and give caregivers time to spend with their families.
  • Offer extra time off during the holidays.
  • Give them treats or spa or relaxation gift cards.
  • Organize a small get-together intended only for caregivers and staff.

Get to know Falbrrok Assisted Living by clicking here!

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

Alzheimer’s Care Facilities

The Benefits of Seasonal Indoor Activities for Alzheimer’s Care Facilities

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Cognitive benefits of engaging in seasonal activities

Seasonal changes can impact a person’s overall well-being through the wealth of opportunities that allow them to stay engaged and active. As the seasons change, different activities and events are also tailored to each season, giving senior adults in Alzheimer’s care facilities to stay engaged, stimulate their minds, improve cognitive function, and enhance overall well-being.

Seasonal benefits vary from one season to another. While the winter season can be challenging, the colder months are filled with merry activities that bring joy and warmth. Crafting decorations and cards can foster creativity and give seniors a sense of accomplishment. Participating in holiday decorations helps seniors stay physically, creatively, and socially active. Keeping and sharing traditions with other residents enhances the bond while creating lasting memories.

Spring is the perfect time for seniors to reconnect with nature. Gardening, hiking, flower picking, and bird watching are simple yet greatly beneficial for seniors in maintaining mobility and strength while enjoying the sunshine, seasonal blooms, and fresh air. Going outside is also an opportunity to meet new people and foster relationships for more social engagement.

Meanwhile, the summer season is for bazaars, farmer’s markets, summer festivals, swimming, and other forms of outdoor entertainment.  Enjoy live performances, buy fresh produce from local farmer’s markets, or enjoy water activities to stay cool. Going out can be therapeutic and help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. A stroll in your local community is an opportunity to meet new and old friends. Seeing familiar places and faces can boost emotional and mental health.

As the weather cools, residents in Alzheimer’s care facilities can now focus on indoor activities like cooking, baking, decorating, and other interests that can stimulate the mind and motor skills. Seniors can join in various activities with family and friends that will strengthen the bond, engage in intellectually stimulating conversations, or do anything worth creating new wonderful memories.

Emotional benefits of fostering connection and joy

Social interaction, regardless of age, is proven to have a profound effect on cognitive health. Research shows that social interaction promotes a sense of belonging, giving residents a solid support group and reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.

The presence of family and friends can enhance the overall quality of life. Meaningful connections and conversations create a positive and supportive environment. When residents can share experiences and engage in deep conversations, these promote cognitive stimulation and create a sense of purpose and belonging.

Examples of practical indoor activities in Alzheimer’s Care Facilities

Arts and Crafts

  • Knitting
  • Scrapbooking
  • Collaging
  • Painting

Entertainment

  • Movie nights
  • Storytelling
  • Singing

Daily Chores

  • Cleaning
  • Tending the plants
  • Organizing

Memory Games

  • Puzzles and board games: Maze Circuit game, matching game activity, Sudoku, Tic Tac Toe, Matching Shapes game, Jenga, Uno, The Logo game
  • Dice games
  • Bingo
  • Dominoes
  • Guessing game
  • Trivia nights (Movies, Music, Urban legends, Famous personalities, TV shows and sitcoms, National Parks, National Holidays, Flags of the World, International Cultures)

Learn more about Fallbrook Assisted Living by clicking here!

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

Holiday Planning Guide for Memory Assisted Living

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Understanding the unique needs of memory assisted living residents

The holiday season is a time when families come together, a celebration of traditions. It is one of the most wonderful times of the year when warmth, joy, and a sense of togetherness are always looked forward to. However, not all families can celebrate the holidays traditionally, particularly those with loved ones in memory assisted living.

But with innovation and creativity, residents with dementia or Alzheimer’s can still join the festivities. Dementia mainly affects the person’s ability to remember things and dates and communicate. Understanding these unique challenges will help carers, staff, and families to organize social gatherings that will be enjoyable for everyone.

Activities and gatherings must be adjusted to meet the unique needs and challenges of the condition. For example, seniors with dementia can be susceptible to flashing bright lights, loud music, unfamiliar faces, and crowded places. To reduce anxiety, consider using soft and relaxing music and soft lighting and setting up intimate gatherings with familiar people.

Also, consider gatherings earlier in the day as dementia patients are easily agitated due to Sundowner’s Syndrome, a condition that affects dementia patients from dusk to night. If possible, stay within the facility instead of outside celebrations, as traveling can also be challenging, particularly for a person with advanced-stage dementia.

Ensure the environment is comfortable, including the seating arrangement, temperature, and accessibility.  There should be a designated corner, a quiet space for dementia patients to retreat to when things become overwhelming. Do not forget to maintain their schedules and routines to avoid stress.

Tips for creating a joyful holiday atmosphere

Families, carers, and memory-assisted living management must work together to help loved ones celebrate a joyful and meaningful holiday. Here are some valuable tips for an inclusive holiday celebration.

Make a list of your favorite dishes for everyone to feast on. Include your loved one’s favorites and family recipes that evoke memories and emotions. However, this food must also meet the patient’s dietary restrictions. Preparing your holiday menu can also be a great way to strengthen the bond.

Take the time to decorate together with loved ones. Ask about their favorite holiday decorations or what they love about the holidays. Simple questions can open discussions and stories that will stir up emotions. This, too, would make the whole preparation extra fun and enjoyable.

Who doesn’t like holiday songs? Use their favorite songs to uplift your loved one’s emotions. Play and sing familiar holiday tunes to elicit pleasurable reactions such as dancing and singing, improving their mood and cognitive function.

Engaging families in holiday planning in Memory Assisted Living

This activity is crucial to creating a warm, fun, and successful celebration.

Consult with loved ones in memory assisted living about how they would want to celebrate the upcoming holiday. This would not only make them feel valued but also ensure that their preferences and limitations are met.

Involve loved ones in the choices of decorations, holiday themes, and activities. Their suggestions and involvement in decision-making will make the whole process more productive and build connections, leaving everyone happier.

Encourage loved ones to share stories during holiday gatherings to share family history and pass on family traditions. This will not only ensure that precious stories endure for future generations but also be a therapeutic exercise to combat loneliness and depression.

This holiday season is not just about parties and gatherings but also about creating a joyful and comfortable celebration for loved ones in memory assisted living.

Learn more about Fallbrook Assisted Living by clicking here!

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

Senior Housing

Investing in Emotional Wellness While Living in Senior Housing

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Some might be skeptical that emotional wellness can hardly be achieved in certain facilities, especially in senior housing. The good news is that it is achievable, given the right management tools. Investing in emotional wellness while living in senior housing enhances residents’ quality of life and overall well-being. Likewise, providing activities like group social events, creative outlets, and relaxation spaces can foster connection and purpose.

In addition, emotional support from staff and peer interactions can also help reduce feelings of isolation or anxiety. Thus, encouraging mindfulness practices, offering mental health resources, and promoting physical activity can boost their mood and mental clarity. That being said, senior housing communities will be able to create a nurturing environment where residents feel valued, engaged, and supported, improving their ability to enjoy daily life and maintain a positive outlook as they age.

Emotional Wellness Month

Not everyone is aware that emotional well-being can greatly affect overall health. Emotional and mental stress can result in negative physical reactions, poor health, and a weakened immune system.

That is why emotional wellness is important. It allows you to process feelings in a healthy and positive way, allowing you to manage the daily stresses of life. You can do this by trying to do a soothing activity such as yoga or meditation to slow down or clear your mind.

October is an opportune time to take charge of your emotional wellness and find some soothing activities you can enjoy. Note that maintaining a healthy emotional balance can help you make healthy choices. At the same time, it can help you navigate relationships and keep yourself motivated.

Maintaining balance and calm is one way of dealing with daily stressors. Thus, the month of October is dedicated to Emotional Wellness Month to remind everyone, particularly those in senior housing, to disconnect and take time out for their brains.

Promoting Emotional Wellness in Senior Housing

You can promote emotional wellness by adhering to the following suggestions:

  • Staying connected is critical to avoiding isolation and feelings of loneliness, which can lead to serious health issues.
  • Practicing positivity is another way to increase your positive emotions
  • Learning the skills to cope to improve your resiliency during challenging times
  • Getting better sleep is as essential because it can impact your mood and the ability to make good decisions

In addition, you can improve your overall emotional wellness and mindfulness by following these tips.

  • Building resilience is essential as it enhances your coping skills
  • Reducing and managing stress by eating well, removing stressors, staying hydrated, and exercising regularly
  • Getting quality sleep to ensure high-quality rest for older adults
  • Strengthening social connections to lead a healthy life, both mentally and physically
  • Practicing mindfulness to take control of your feelings and reduce the impact of anxiety, stress, and worry

National Emotional Wellness Month is a perfect time to focus on senior housing residents’ mental wellness. You can help improve their mental health by ensuring a fulfilling and happy life.

  • Keeping them socially connected
  • Engaging them in intellectual stimulation by keeping their mind active
  • Exercising regularly has many benefits for mental wellness
  • Fostering a sense of purpose can also help loved ones enhance their mental well-being and have a deeper meaning in life

Learn more about Fallbrook Assisted Living by clicking here!

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 Facilities

Preparing for Thanksgiving in Assisted Living Facilities

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Expressing gratitude in assisted living facilities can be a perfect opportunity to provide residents with a warm, inclusive, and festive atmosphere. This is a perfect time to celebrate, especially for those who cannot do so with their family. Thus, it focuses on community, creating memories, and promoting a sense of family and gratitude.

Ways to Show Thanks in November

It is important to show gratitude in the month of November as a way to acknowledge goodness and recognize its source. Note that gratitude can enhance mood and decrease stress. Thus, it can drastically improve overall health and well-being.

  • Giving handwritten letters and notes can be simple but meaningful ways to thank the people in your life. It can mean the world to someone and allow you to express gratitude to the people you love.
  • A gratitude journal is also one of the best ways to show daily gratitude. With the gratitude journal, you can start a collection of little grateful moments.
  • Donating your time by volunteering is a selfless and excellent way of expressing gratitude towards the organizations and people working to help others.
  • Giving away clothes you no longer need is another way to express your gratitude on this momentous occasion.
  • Giving to organizations that support causes is also a great way to make a difference in your community.

There are still so many other ways to provide gratitude to others. Such would include playing the gratitude game or giving out gratitude and thanksgiving books for younger children. You may also give importance to others by expressing gratitude to your own family or friends, for that matter. And, of course, it should be a perfect time to thank the people who matter the most to you–loved ones in assisted living facilities.

Thanksgiving in Assisted Living Facilities

 

Expressing gratitude in assisted living facilities can also give seniors time to socialize and connect with others during the holiday season. In fact, there are many activities that seniors will love, including Thanksgiving dinners, turkey trots, pumpkin painting contests, and craft fairs.

You can celebrate Thanksgiving in assisted living facilities by creating a festive space. For instance, you can hang up some of your favorite fall and Thanksgiving-themed décor to get into the holiday spirit. On the other hand, you can enjoy a special Thanksgiving meal with the family. Furthermore, lots of assisted living facilities host special Thanksgiving events and themed activities that you can participate in to make the assisted living community more cheerful.

In addition, when visiting a loved one, you may reminisce about past holiday memories by presenting old photos. However, if you are away from your loved one in assisted living, you may just express in advance how happy you are for them during this occasion. This will surely help them feel connected to you, knowing that you are thinking of them.

Click here to learn more about life 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

Nursing Homes

The Importance of Outside Time in Memory Care Assisted Living | Get Outdoors Week

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Outside time plays a crucial role in enhancing the well-being of residents in memory care assisted living. During Get Outdoors Week, they can celebrate the benefits of fresh air, sunlight, and nature, improving mood, reducing agitation, and stimulating positive memories. Discover why outdoor activities are vital for those in memory care and how they bring joy, relaxation, and a sense of freedom to everyday life.

Nature and Dementia

Spending a certain amount of time outdoors every week can provide many benefits, particularly for people with dementia and Alzheimer’s. The lack of vital vitamin D can lead to various conditions, including the increased risk of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Moreover, the lack of light can also lead to poor sleep patterns because light exposure is necessary in setting the body clock. Getting fresh air and exercise to reduce stress levels and agitation is also essential. Thus, it is important to incorporate periods outside for loved ones and carers.

Breaking the routine is also possible when considering outdoor activities for seniors in memory care assisted living. Thus, allowing people to participate in light activities can encourage people to be more sociable. In fact, studies have shown that even these light exercises can help with cognitive decline, keep their brain active, and slow down further cognitive deterioration.

Ideas for Outside Time in Memory Care Assisted Living

 

If you are considering outside time in memory assisted living, it is important to keep seniors rehydrated, especially during hot temperatures. Drinking enough water is crucial to avoid dehydration and heat stroke.

  • Bonding with pets can be a fantastic way for people with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia to be able to reduce anxiety and stress.
  • You may also do some arts and crafts activities outdoors instead of indoors. You can use the backyard or sit in a park to enjoy the views and fresh air.
  • You might as well go fishing because seniors can enjoy the scenery while waiting for fish to get on their line. It is also a relaxing way for seniors to enjoy and rekindle memories of younger days.
  • Gardening may also benefit seniors because it provides a little physical activity. They will surely enjoy growing up and eating fruits and vegetables.
  • Taking photos can also play a significant role in outdoor activities for older adults with dementia.
  • It is also important that seniors have fun and enjoy the food available during outdoor time. One way is to conduct picnics and cookouts, along with some music, for them to have a good time and get everyone dancing.
  • If possible, bring along your loved one who has dementia or Alzheimer’s to go for a walk. If they are physically able to walk and agree to go out for a stroll, then you should get them to walk as regularly as possible.

Click here to learn all 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

Senior Housing

Recognizing World Pancreatic Cancer Day in Senior Housing

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World Pancreatic Cancer Day is a vital reminder of the ongoing fight against this challenging disease, especially within senior housing communities. This day allows us to raise awareness, educate residents and their families, and promote a supportive environment. It aims to empower residents and encourage open conversations about health and wellness through informational sessions, health screenings, and community discussions.

World Pancreatic Cancer Day

The World Pancreatic Cancer Day celebration is on the third Thursday of November each year. For ten years, it has raised awareness around the world that it is one of the most challenging cancers. On this day, communities, including senior housing, raise awareness and support the people battling the disease.

In commemorating World Pancreatic Cancer Day, people unite and help spread the word about pancreatic cancer. The day also aims to raise awareness about its prevention and treatment. Many health organizations in 30 countries join hands to encourage awareness of risk factors, symptoms, and treatment of pancreatic cancer.

Look for Signs in Senior Housing

The pancreas is a gland in the abdomen that aids in food digestion. When it becomes infected with cancer cells, it can present symptoms, including bloating, fatigue, jaundice, nausea, and lack of appetite. Pancreatic cancer can be treated with surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. However, the survival rates are low because it is hard to detect in its early stages.

The symptoms can be hard to determine, but only once the tumor starts affecting other organs in the digestive system. The healthcare provider may suspect the emergence of the disease once you have recently developed diabetes or pancreatitis.

Pain in the abdomen or back is caused by the tumor pushing against or invading nerves or organs near the pancreas. Another area of pain happens when the cancer blocks the digestive tract. Patients experiencing poor appetite, indigestion, and nausea can be expected in people with the disease. Note that some or all of the symptoms mentioned may occur when the tumor presses against the stomach.

In addition, if the patient’s skin and eyes begin to show yellowing due to excess bilirubin in the blood, this is a sign that the patient has jaundice. People with jaundice may experience itchiness of the skin, abnormally dark urine, and light or clay-colored stool.

For the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, healthcare providers suggest a combination of tests, including imaging tests, blood tests, staging laparoscopy, and genetic testing. The good thing is that early detection and treatment can make complete remission possible. However, the only way to cure pancreatic cancer is the total surgical removal of the tumor.

Residents in senior housing should be tested for pancreatic cancer when the said symptoms are observed. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you must bring them up with your doctor or healthcare provider to receive supportive or palliative care.

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

Alzheimer’s Care Facilities

National Depression Education and Awareness Month in Alzheimer’s Care Facilities

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National Depression Education and Awareness Month enables Alzheimer’s care facilities to highlight the often-overlooked connection between depression and dementia. During this time, staff are educated on recognizing signs of depression, which can be very difficult to detect in patients with cognitive decline. The month commemorates promoting better screening practices and ensuring early intervention and treatment. In addition, it will raise awareness among families, helping them understand behavioral changes and emotional needs.

National Depression Education and Awareness Month

You might not be aware that depression can wear you out when you need all your strength the most. Thus, it may become so highly tiring to try to cope. In this case, what others are suffering is difficult to determine most of the time.

During National Depression Education and Awareness Month, people learn how to determine the signs, symptoms, and treatment options of depression. This also enables people to know how to seek help from a counselor, trusted companion, or their community.

You can observe this occasion by contacting friends, family, and community members. Moreover, you may want to share your story about your struggles with depression. This can help others learn that they are not alone in this fight.

Additionally, educating others is one of the best ways to help them understand the common symptoms and impact of depression. The more knowledge you have, the better you may be able to recognize someone needing your support and love.

Depression and Alzheimer’s in Alzheimer’s Care Facilities

It’s worth noting that depression is common among those suffering from Alzheimer’s, particularly during the early or middle stages. However, treatment is available, which can also significantly affect your quality of life.

Among the symptoms of depression, the most common are apathy, isolation, impaired thinking, loss of interest in hobbies or activities, social withdrawal, and trouble concentrating. That said, people suffering from Alzheimer’s find it hard to articulate their sadness, guilt, and hopelessness, as do other feelings associated with depression.

Note that people with dementia commonly have depression, which makes it harder to live. Moreover, it can cause problems with thinking and memory even worse. You might think that most people feel sad or low at times, but it is not similar to being depressed. People who are depressed feel low but for a longer period while struggling to do daily activities and tasks.

Likewise, there is increasing proof that suggests the connection between depression and Alzheimer’s disease. Depression can be a risk factor that will aid in the development of Alzheimer’s disease as you grow older.

It is pretty challenging at times for doctors to diagnose depression in patients with Alzheimer’s disease because they have similar symptoms. That being said, it will require thorough evaluation by a skilled professional or in Alzheimer’s care facilities that offer related services.

Treatment for depression with Alzheimer’s disease, however, often involves a combination of daily life adaptations, medicines, and therapy. A person can contact a medical professional right away if there are any symptoms of depression or other changes in behavior.

 

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

Assisted Living

Critical Illness Awareness Month in Fallbrook Memory Care Facility

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In a memory care facility, commemorating Critical Illness Awareness Month is a chance to promote compassion, understanding, and support. Educational seminars for staff and relatives can increase awareness of the difficulties faced by residents with critical conditions. Straightforward, participatory activities like memory exercises and relaxing therapies enhance emotional well-being. Working with medical specialists in a Fallbrook memory care facility can yield insightful information and helpful resources for improved care management. The month’s celebration can emphasize the value of individualized care while honoring the resiliency of residents and caregivers by emphasizing empathy and education. This will foster a supportive and caring atmosphere for all parties involved.

Critical Illness Awareness Month

You must know that the number of Americans suffering from stroke or heart attack every year is comparable to cancer diagnoses and other critical illnesses. October is a timely occasion to celebrate Critical Illness Awareness Month because it provides information about preventing, treating, and providing patient care for those affected by the disease.

The goal of Critical Illness Awareness Month is to increase public awareness of severe illnesses like cancer, heart disease, stroke, and other ailments that can be fatal. The main goals are to raise public awareness of the effects of these diseases, encourage early detection, and support impacted individuals.

It also highlights the significance of appropriate medical attention, available treatments, and financial preparation, which includes critical sickness insurance. Advocacy groups frequently organize activities and campaigns throughout this month to disseminate information, share firsthand accounts, and raise awareness of the psychological and physical toll that chronic illnesses take on patients and their families.

Critical Illnesses and Fallbrook Memory Care Facility

There are studies about critical illness that involved survivors having prolonged and disabling forms of cognitive impairment. That said, patients in medical and surgical intensive care units are at high risk for long-term cognitive impairment. Note that dementia is a terminal disease that may lead to progressive cognitive and functional decline. So, the incidence of dementia in older adults in the hospital increases as the elderly population continues to rise. This is associated with poor short-term and long-term outcomes.

With that being said, delirium is connected with an accelerated cognitive decline in hospitalized patients with dementia. However, it can be managed by doing accurate and early diagnosis. There is a lack of evidence-based management guidelines in the setting of critical illness and dementia. So, management must define goals early on when dealing with hospitalized elderly and using palliative care and hospice when necessary.

Furthermore, there were findings that hospitalization will increase the risk of subsequent diagnosis of dementia. There are different illnesses independently associated with dementia, such as severe sepsis, acute dialysis, and neurological dysfunction.

Facilities can help manage patients with critical illnesses through a comprehensive, person-centered approach and combining specialized care for physical and cognitive health needs.

  • Providing personalized patient care
  • Involving specialists in providing integrated medical care
  • Prioritizing pain management and comfort care from palliative care teams
  • Managing prescriptions to make sure patients get proper dosages
  • Providing emotional support and communication
  • Conducting specialized training for staff
  • Ensuring adequate nutrition and hydration
  • Involving family in the care process
  • Facilities must be able to handle end-of-life care

Learn more about Fallbrook Assisted Living by clicking here!

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