Memory Assisted Living

The Healing Power of Nature: Why Outdoor Spaces Matter in Memory Care

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Caring for a loved one with cognitive challenges requires immense dedication, often making it difficult for families to manage independently. Memory care facilities offer a safe, comfortable, and practical solution, providing the specialized support these individuals need. Beyond medical care, these facilities often adopt a holistic approach, focusing on the overall well-being of their residents. Research has consistently demonstrated the positive impact of nature and outdoor environments on human health, particularly for those experiencing cognitive decline. Exposure to nature has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and even promote cognitive function. Fallbrook Memory Care Facility recognizes these crucial benefits and prioritizes thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces.

These areas are carefully planned to foster well-being and create a calming, therapeutic environment where residents can experience the restorative power of nature.

Mental Health Benefits of Nature in a Fallbrook Memory Care Facility

The power of nature profoundly benefits human well-being, impacting our emotional, physical, and mental states. For individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, this therapeutic effect is particularly significant, offering a tangible improvement in their overall quality of life. Simple interactions with the natural world, such as a gentle stroll through a courtyard or light gardening, can yield remarkable results. These activities stimulate both physical health and cognitive function.

Exposure to natural sunlight helps regulate circadian rhythms, improving sleep patterns and a greater sense of calm. Furthermore, immersion in nature has been shown to have a physiological impact, slowing heart rate, lowering blood pressure, and reducing cortisol levels—the hormones associated with stress, anxiety, anger, and depression.

Stepping outside the Fallbrook Memory Care Facility offers residents more than just a change of scenery; it’s an opportunity to reconnect with the world around them. These outings provide a chance to engage their senses and observe the environment. In addition, outdoor activities foster social interaction. Residents can meet and connect with like-minded residents, leading to more meaningful conversations and a sense of community.

These social connections can significantly reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are common among individuals with dementia. Nature’s tranquility, combined with social engagement, creates a supportive and enriching environment, enhancing the lives of Fallbrook residents.

Physical Health Benefits of Outdoor Spaces

Outdoor spaces offer many opportunities and benefits for individuals with cognitive challenges. Walking, stretching, gardening or strolls in a park can enhance cardiovascular endurance, bone health, strength, mobility, and balance. These gentle exercises contribute to overall physical well-being and can improve daily functioning.

Regular physical activity, facilitated by access to outdoor spaces, is a cornerstone of preventative medicine. It reduces the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. Incorporating regular physical activity also aids in maintaining ideal weight and overall health. Furthermore, research has indicated that balanced interaction with nature is essential in strengthening the immune system, contributing to greater resilience against illness.

Memory care facilities should prioritize access to outdoor spaces and activities to foster a healthier and more vibrant community. Beyond their physical benefits, outdoor spaces provide more than just recreation; they offer a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. This access to nature helps residents manage stress better, improve their mood, and enhance their overall well-being.

Outdoor spaces can promote relaxation and reduce stress, improving health outcomes and helping residents better cope with illness and complications from existing conditions.

Incorporating Nature into Daily Routines

Fallbrook Memory Care Facility truly understands the importance of nature for its residents. By creating safe, comfortable, and accessible outdoor spaces, they’ve fostered an environment where residents can thrive. These spaces aren’t just pretty; they’re designed to encourage activity, exploration, and relaxation, leading to meaningful experiences.

Here are some excellent ways residents can enjoy the outdoors at Fallbrook:

  • Strolling through the garden or courtyard provides gentle exercise and a chance to enjoy the fresh air.
  • Starting the day with light tasks like watering plants, feeding birds, or weeding can provide a sense of purpose and connection to nature.
  • Spending time in the sun helps residents get their daily dose of Vitamin D, which is essential for mood and overall health.
  • Sitting outside, listening to the birdsong, the wind rustling through the trees, or the gentle patter of rain can be incredibly calming and restorative.
  • An herb garden, even a small one in pots, can add a touch of nature and provide sensory stimulation through the fragrant herbs.

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 Care Assisted Living

International Friendship Month: Making Friends in Senior Housing

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True friends are sunshine, filling our lives with joy and warmth. They offer a listening ear and a shoulder to lean on. For residents in senior housing, they’re a vital connection, combating loneliness, fostering social interaction, and reminding us that we’re never truly alone.

International Friendship Month is the perfect time to celebrate these invaluable bonds and the power of human connection. It’s a chance to share how friendship brings vitality and happiness. This month provides an opportunity to strengthen existing friendships and embrace new ones. For senior residents, it’s a special reminder that they are valued, appreciated, and belong.

Encouraging Social Interaction in Senior Housing

International Friendship Month is the perfect time to celebrate the vital role friendship and social connection play in enriching the lives of senior residents. Thoughtfully planned events and programs can significantly combat isolation and depression, fostering a sense of value and belonging.

Engaging activities are key to creating fun and interactive bonding opportunities for residents. Classic games like trivia nights, bingo, and card games offer excitement and friendly competition. Group outings to local markets, museums, or events provide new experiences, connect residents with their community, engage them with local happenings, and create lasting memories with friends.

Shared interests can also spark connections. Movie nights, book clubs, shared hobbies, lunches, or coffee dates can facilitate conversations and build relationships. Offering diverse activities ensures something for everyone, allowing residents with different interests and abilities to meet and connect.

Beyond organized events, comfortable and inviting common areas encourage residents to socialize. Cozy seating arrangements, tables for shared meals or coffee, and a welcoming atmosphere create spaces where friendships can flourish. These suggestions can help create a supportive environment where meaningful connections are nurtured and celebrated in assisted living.

Benefits of Friendships for Seniors

Friendships are essential for residents in senior housing, significantly impacting their emotional, mental, physical, and overall well-being. Having a constant companion with whom to share feelings, joys, and everyday moments reduces loneliness, a common challenge in senior communities that can lead to depression and anxiety.

Regular peer interaction renews one’s purpose and makes life more meaningful. Simply spending time with friends, regardless of the activity, can boost one’s mood, happiness, and quality of life.

Loneliness is a significant concern for seniors, and genuine friendships are a powerful antidote. Knowing someone cares can help combat isolation and boredom in assisted living. Friends offer invaluable emotional support and understanding, making challenging times more bearable with words of encouragement. They celebrate your wins, big or small, sharing in your happiness.

Beyond emotional support, friends offer practical benefits, such as companionship, assistance with errands or tasks, transportation, and help with urgent matters. In short, friends enrich the lives of senior housing residents by providing physical, emotional, mental, and practical support. During the transition to assisted living, friends make the adjustment more manageable, fun, and meaningful.

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

Celebrating Valentine’s Day in Assisted Living

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Valentine’s Day, a globally recognized celebration, is often associated with romance, but its true essence is celebrating all forms of love. For residents and their families in assisted living, it’s a cherished opportunity to connect and strengthen bonds. The day fosters a vibrant sense of community among residents, caregivers, and staff, encouraging meaningful conversations and reducing feelings of isolation. It’s a time to enjoy each other’s company and appreciate the connections that enrich our lives. For residents who may experience loneliness, Valentine’s Day celebrations can be significant. They can spark new friendships and reinforce a sense of belonging. Engaging in festive activities evokes positive emotions and creates new memories to treasure. Sharing these experiences with loved ones makes the celebration even more joyful and memorable, creating lasting moments of happiness and connection.

Activity Ideas for Residents in Assisted Living

Make this Valentine’s Day memorable by unleashing your creativity, dressing up, and having fun with family and friends. Gather your art supplies – ribbons, colorful papers, glitter, fabric scraps – and let your imagination run wild. But there is no pressure; you can always stick to a card with a personal message. Keep it simple and authentic, expressing your love and appreciation.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with residents and friends by sharing heart-shaped treats at any meal. Or, even better, host a fun “bake-together” party! Choose simple recipes so everyone can participate. Afterward, enjoy the delicious results while sharing heartwarming stories about past Valentine’s Day celebrations. Celebrate Valentine’s Day with residents through music and dance. Host a dance with music from various eras for everyone to enjoy, invite a live musician, and organize a sing-along with familiar tunes and popular love songs. Encourage assisted living residents, even those with limited mobility, to dance gently to music.

Involving Families and Staff

Valentine’s Day in an assisted living facility is unique because it involves family and staff, who are key to creating a meaningful and memorable celebration. Here are some ways everyone can participate and foster intergenerational bonding:

Living in an assisted living facility doesn’t mean you can’t connect with family and celebrate special days. Whether together in person or connecting remotely, you can still enjoy cherished traditions.

Consider a special Valentine’s Day lunch or dinner, whether prepared at the facility or catered. Share favorite treats, watch a movie together, organize a video call with family members who live far away, or even have a fun karaoke session. The most important thing is to connect and create new memories together.

A Valentine’s Day gift exchange is a lovely way to show you care. Gifts don’t need to be extravagant; what truly counts is their thought. Consider creating personalized gifts like a memory album, a scrapbook filled with cherished photos and mementos, or a heartfelt letter expressing your feelings. Anything encouraging artistic expression and authentic connection will surely be a treasured gift.

Who doesn’t love a bit of friendly competition and the thrill of winning a prize? Organizing Valentine’s Day-themed games like bingo or trivia is a fantastic way to engage residents, families, and staff of all ages. These activities can be tailored to different cognitive levels and physical abilities, ensuring everyone can participate and have fun.

These Valentine’s Day activities are fun and offer opportunities to socialize, connect, and create more meaningful memories.

Click here to learn 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

Alzheimer’s Care Facilities

Tips for Decluttering in Assisted Living Facilities

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Maintaining a clean and organized space at home or in assisted living facilities is vital to seniors’ overall well-being. A clutter-free space positively impacts seniors’ mental and physical wellness, allowing them to live in a comfortable, eye-pleasing, and safe environment. Clear spaces protect your loved ones from physical risks while reducing stress and anxiety. Regardless of age, we all want a space to navigate freely and away from hazards.

Benefits of Decluttering in Assisted Living Facilities

Decluttering in assisted living facilities benefits senior residents in many ways, including the transformative benefits.

  • A clean living environment promotes better mental and physical health. Excess and accumulated belongings can be an eyesore and trigger anxiety and stress. With an organized space, seniors can enjoy a relaxed environment.
  • An organized space also contributes to mental clarity and better cognitive health. A clean environment promotes better focus, cognitive function, and a sense of calm.
  • Decluttering also prevents risks of accidents or falls, which are common in old age. Clear pathways ensure easy navigation, particularly for residents in wheelchairs and walkers.
  • A tidy and organized space makes it easier to find essential things, reducing stress and frustration. It also means maintaining a healthy environment for seniors with respiratory conditions, as excess things attract dust and allergens.
  • Managing a clutter-free space is also easier. With fewer things, cleaning and organizing is faster and easier without bending, lifting, and reaching.

Assisted living facilities promote a safer, healthier, and more comfortable environment by creating an organized space for everyone.

Steps for decluttering

With the new year, there is no better time to trim down your possessions with a good declutter.

  • Start by listing where to start: drawers, closets, kitchens, etc. This will help you identify key areas that need decluttering. To avoid being overwhelmed, do this one area at a time.
  • Set a schedule, such as a day or time, to stay focused. Avoid decluttering from one area to another, as this will only lead to more clutter.
  • Gather materials you need, such as cleaning supplies, boxes, and labels for your trash, donate, recycle, and keep items.

To organize the remaining items you want to keep, use storage solutions like clear boxes, stackable drawers, bins, and baskets. This will help you maintain an organized space and prevent future clutter. Do this regularly to avoid personal and house items from accumulating again.

Tips for Sentimental Items

Letting go of sentimental items can be challenging. However, when things are piling up and overwhelm your drawers and organizers, it is time to sort through the clutter. While these items have sentimental value, remember that you are not obligated to keep things you will not use.

Another thing to note is the item’s condition. Is this still in good condition? Things in good condition and usable can be donated. While it is essential to honor these items, it is also important to let go of things that are no longer useful. Ask family members or residents who might want to keep these items. By choosing to let go, you are helping yourself and the rest of the assisted living facility residents have a safe and comfortable living environment.

Looking for excellent senior living 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

Memory Assisted Living

Self-Care Tips for Residents in Nursing Homes

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Prioritizing self-care is crucial for the overall well-being of residents in nursing homes. Taking the time to pamper yourself helps reduce the impacts of burnout and stress. Life’s challenges can sometimes be overwhelming, leading to mental and emotional health issues. So, when you think that self-care is a luxury or overindulgence, think again. Taking care of your well-being helps you better respond to stress, promoting resilience and strength.

Daily routines in Nursing Homes: Personal hygiene, healthy eating, and hydration

Self-care is often overlooked regardless of age. Usually, people care for their families while others neglect their own needs. However, seniors in nursing care facilities must maintain a healthy self-care routine to prevent illnesses and complications from existing health or medical conditions and improve overall well-being.

There are many ways to better care for yourself. Self-care is a simple way to maintain a healthy lifestyle, such as eating more nutritious food and exercising daily. Incorporating a healthier habit into your daily lifestyle yields better results without strictly imposing it.

Eat balanced meals to maintain health and prevent diseases. Proper nutrition supports a healthy immune system, cognitive function, strength, and mobility.

Personal hygiene routines, such as bathing, brushing teeth, and grooming, are crucial for physical cleanliness and boosting self-esteem. They help eliminate foul, unpleasant odors, keep you fresh, have clearer skin, fight cavities, and free you from illnesses.

Staying hydrated is crucial to prevent muscle weakness and lightheadedness, which are risks of falls and accidents. Increased fluid intake also enhances cognitive function, increases energy levels, improves muscle function, supports cardiovascular health, improves medical effectiveness, and healthy skin.

Mental health care in Nursing Homes: Meditation, journaling, and staying connected with loved ones

Adjustment when transitioning to a new environment can be emotionally challenging, leading to stress, isolation, and depression. Mental health cannot be stressed enough for the vulnerable residents of nursing homes.

Loved ones and staff can play a significant role in alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety.  A welcoming and nurturing can positively impact the lives of senior residents, contributing to improved quality of life.

Programs and activities, such as arts and crafts, music therapy, gardening, meditation, and journaling, help residents stay socially engaged, promote independence, and stay connected to what and who they love. Regular social interactions foster meaningful relationships among residents and promote a sense of belonging.

Meanwhile, personalized approaches like journaling, yoga, and meditation work wonders for mental health. Journaling can be a safe and private space for self-expression without fear of judgment. Writing down things that are hard to share can be beneficial for processing feelings and thoughts. Putting anger, anxiety, or worries on paper reduces the intensity of emotions and stress. Journaling also improves mood.

The benefits of meditation go far beyond the physical. They include stress reduction, pain management, improved sleep and focus, and mood enhancement. Meditation can also be done in the privacy of your rooms or a communal area with other residents, providing a sense of connection.

 

Physical activities: Chair exercises, stretching, and recreational activities

Being in nursing homes should not limit residents from engaging in regular physical activities. As we age, it is necessary to get enough exercise. Light stretches and social activities can help improve joint function, alleviate pain due to the release of endorphins, improve weight management, and preserve muscle mass.

Nursing facilities offer various activities for socialization and physical and mental wellness. Chair exercises, swimming, walking, house chores, gardening, and dancing can improve cardiovascular health, increase energy and strength, balance and coordination, enhance mood, promote better sleep and autonomy, and increase the sense of purpose. Seniors can have a healthy and fulfilling life by incorporating chair exercises, stretching, and recreational activities.

Looking for excellent senior facilities in Nebraska? 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

Facilities for Alzheimer’s

Staying Busy in the Winter in Senior Housing

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Staying active and engaged is crucial regardless of age. However, it is also essential to maintain social connections for residents in senior housing, particularly during the cold winter months. The colder, darker, and longer days can lead to isolation, depression, and physical decline.

Physical activities and engagement combat feelings of loneliness, improve mood, maintain cognitive function, and contribute to a happy and fulfilled life in senior housing. While outdoor activities are limited during winter, many indoor activities keep senior residents occupied and socially stimulated, essential for their physical and overall well-being.

Indoor Activities for Senior Housing

You can try these indoor activities with family, friends, and carers.

  • Board games are not only good for maintaining a connection with residents but also good for mental stimulation.
  • Puzzles, jigsaw, word searches, crossword puzzles, and Sudoku are classic games that keep the mind sharp.
  • Painting, knitting, or sewing is relaxing while enhancing creativity.
  • Cooking or baking sessions with family or friends can be fun to learn new skills.

All suggested activities involve different cognitive functions that slow mental decline. Completing a puzzle or a game gives a sense of accomplishment, the same feeling you get when you create a delicious dish. Engaging in these simple yet fun activities is also beneficial for maintaining fine motor skills while making memories with loved ones.

Community Events

Offering a variety of community events can create an uplifting and vibrant environment throughout the winter season. Movie nights, for example, allow senior residents to share experiences and thoughts about the movie, breaking free from their daily routines. Movie nights are also accessible for everyone, including residents with limited mobility.

Meanwhile, holiday parties and gatherings foster a feeling of belonging, reducing loneliness and isolation. When you are with the people you care about on special occasions, the festive atmosphere can boost your mood and bring you joy.

Attend fitness classes organized by senior housing facilities to enhance balance, flexibility, and strength, reducing the risk of falls typical among seniors. These classes are also great opportunities to meet new friends and socialize. In addition to social connection, engaging in physical activities releases good and happy hormones called endorphins to alleviate signs of depression and anxiety. Joining community events can boost the mood, kicking off the winter blues and allowing you to get out of your room and socialize.

Outdoor options

Even during winter, outdoor activities are still an option, but with careful safety and accessibility considerations.

  • Weather permitting, a stroll around a senior housing facility can be a great way to get some fresh air and an opportunity for light exercise. However, make sure to do this safely.
  • Do some gardening work on warmer days. Walk around or enjoy the view and the sunshine.
  • Set up bird feeders near your window or in the garden. This would be an excellent way to connect with nature.

Enjoy the winter scenery with a guide to ensure safety. Check the temperature first, bundle up, and wear boots with good traction to avoid slips and falls. Start with short walks and eventually increase the distance on your next walk.

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

Memory Care 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

Assisted Living

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.

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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