MEMORY CARE

Are you looking for a memory care facility? Here are some tips to help you find the right one.

About 70% of seniors will need some type of long-term care in their lives. These can include assisted living, memory care, and nursing homes. Because older adults can experience cognitive, physical and mental deterioration, they will struggle. Without medical expertise, caregivers may find it difficult to provide the necessary support for loved ones.

Residents with memory loss, Alzheimer’s Disease or other conditions will receive specialized care from nurses and team members in memory care communities and facilities.

What is Memory Care?

What exactly is memory care? It is based on scientific principles, provides a personal, engaging, comprehensive and personalized approach to memory care. Our memory care community residents will have the opportunity to receive hands-on assistance from trained caregivers and nurses, as well as activities that keep them busy and active. Our memory care program‘s central belief is that everyone can live an independent and confident life.

There are a few things to consider when choosing a memory care community

There are many factors that could influence your decision to choose a memory care community in Myrtle Beach. Each provider will offer its own strengths and weaknesses. We have compiled four key areas that will help you narrow down your choices.

Make sure that everyone has experience with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Your chosen community should have the expertise and knowledge to care for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Memory loss progression is different from other conditions or issues that are associated with old age. It requires a skilled and knowledgeable team to address and alleviate symptoms.

Make sure you are clear about the relevant practicalities

This includes questions such as transportation options, medication management, living options and waiting lists, as well as certifications. You should do this before you begin to look at different options to ensure you have a complete list of everything your loved one needs to live a happy life. These are the essentials that your loved ones will need.

Book a Tour

Make sure you schedule a tour so that you can see the grounds before making a decision. Talk to residents and visiting family members when you visit the memory care community. Also, talk to any staff members who are there. If possible, make arrangements to visit their dining hall and learn about their activities as well as the health support they provide.

Are they suitable?

You or your loved one may have their own hobbies and interests. Therefore, it is important that the community supports their hobbies. If your loved one is interested in animals or has a pet, it’s important that the community offers pet therapy or pet-friendly services.

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you are looking for the best memory care community for your loved ones.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest
219 Middleburg Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 903-0700
https://www.reflectionsassistedliving.com/

ASSISTED LIVING VS. NURSING HOME: WHICH IS BETTER?

There are many long-term care options available for older adults such as assisted living facilities and nursing homes. It can be difficult to decide which option is right for you or your loved one.

It is a good idea to determine the right level of care for you.

This article will help you understand the differences between assisted living and nursing homes, and how to choose the best one.

What are the main differences between nursing homes and assisted living?

Assisted living can be described as a residential environment. Nursing homes, also known as skilled nursing facilities, are medical environments.

Summary of the key differences between assisted living and nursing homes.

1. Medical services

Assisted Living

• Residents in assisted living facilities or retirement homes have the option to receive different levels of medical care depending on their needs.
• A facility might offer transportation to appointments or assistance with medication taking. Many facilities have an on-site nurse and physical and occupational therapists.
• Some assisted living facilities have designated areas for those with memory impairments or dementia.
• People in assisted living facilities generally are in good to semi-disabled health.

Nursing home

• A nursing home provides 24-hour medical care. Residents with chronic conditions are cared for by nursing staff.
• For those who require them, rehabilitation services like speech, occupational, and respiratory therapy are available.
• There are some residents who live there for life, while others are admitted to the hospital for rehabilitation.

2. Living space

Assisted Living

• People often live in shared or individual apartments in assisted living facilities with kitchens, bedrooms and living rooms.
• Some facilities provide furnished rooms. However, most will want you to furnish the space with personal furniture and photos to make the space feel more like home.
• Residents can share meals or other activities in the common areas.

Nursing home

• People in a nursing home usually have either individual or shared rooms with a bathroom.
• Many skilled nursing facilities and nursing homes have shared spaces that residents can use to share meals or take part in activities.

3. Assistance with daily activities

Assisted Living

• These services can be provided to residents in assisted living in Myrtle Beach who require assistance with daily activities such as dressing and bathing.
• Residents who require them can avail services such as housekeeping, laundry, and meal preparation.

Nursing home

Most people require more assistance in caring for their daily needs at a nursing home.

Residents are assisted by staff to bathe, dress and use the bathroom. The kitchen staff prepares meals, while the staff clean and launder for residents.

4. Recreational activities

Assisted Living

• The wide variety of activities available to residents is one of the main features of Christian assisted living facilities.
• Research has shown that older adults can stay physically active as well as socially connected to maintain their health.
• Many assisted living facilities provide opportunities for exercise, creativity, and socialization.
• Many facilities offer religious services as well as opportunities to volunteer in their community.

Nursing home

• The variety of activities available in nursing homes may be limited.
• Many nursing homes offer classes in art, choir, cooking, animal therapy, education, and other mentally stimulating activities for their residents.
• Physical therapists often supervise exercise activities and help residents prevent falls, mobility problems, and gain strength.
• Supervised exercise sessions are good for long-term residents in long-term care homes.

5. Meals

Assisted Living

Residents in assisted living facilities can cook in their own kitchens or use the community dining room to prepare meals.

However, they encourage residents to attend meals in the dining room where they can socialize with other residents. This helps eliminate the feeling of isolation.

Nursing home

Dieticians prepare meals in a nursing home. Residents may have their meals prepared in their own rooms, or in a communal room depending on their mobility and personal preferences.

Residents who are unable to eat on their own can often get assistance from a personal aide.

6. Cost

According to the American Health Care Association, the cost for nursing home care is approximately twice that of assisted living.

Residents paying out-of-pocket will pay around $89,000 for a semiprivate room in a nursing facility, and approximately $48,000 per year for an assisted living facility depending on the area of the country you are in, the size of the room/apartment and level of assistance needed.

7. Coverage for insurance

Medicare covers some nursing home and skilled nursing costs if you are unable to pay for your own care.

If your stay is longer than 20 days, you will usually have to pay some of the costs.

Medicare does not usually pay for assisted living, or custodial care (help with daily living activities).

Some states have Medicaid programs that pay for nursing homes or assisted living. However, the rules in each state are different. Some states might require Medicaid beneficiaries to use their funds before Medicaid starts paying for services.

Medicare.gov states that some people buy long-term care insurance policies in order to cover their expenses. However, the benefits of each plan are different.

Some policies cover only care in a nursing facility, while others include at-home and assisted living facilities.

You should carefully read all the terms and conditions before you buy a long-term policy.

If you or your spouse served in the armed services during a war or are a retired veteran, you may qualify for Aid and Assistance from the VA.

Which type of facility is best for you?

Your health and the amount of help you require with your daily activities will determine which type of facility is right for you.

These questions will help you choose the right facility for you or your loved one.

• What amount of help would you need to bathe, dress, and use the bathroom?
• Are you a serious patient who requires daily medical attention?
• Do you have the ability to cook your own meals?
• What are your plans for paying for the care that you require?
• How to select the best assisted living or nursing home?

After you have decided on the type of facility that best suits your needs, you will need to look at individual facilities to find the right match.

These questions should be considered when comparing facilities:

• Are the facilities licensed by a state agency?
• Are the reports of any healthcare agencies available?
• Are the residents happy?
• Which medical professionals are available and who do they work with?
• How do you calculate the ratio of staff to residents?
• How high is the turnover of staff?
• What is the best way to handle a medical emergency?
• Are there any home or doctor visits that can be made?
• What services are included in the base price and what are charged an additional fee?
• Who provides medication?
• Are doctor’s appointments covered by transportation?
• How close are you and your family to the facility?
• What type of recreation activities are available?
• Are residents allowed to go on outings with their community?
• Are residents allowed to bring their own furniture?
• Are bathrooms shared?
• Does the facility have a connection to a particular faith?

You can review the contract to make sure you are familiar with the procedures and costs.

Visit facilities multiple times if possible. To get an idea of the best ones in your area, talk to friends, family, colleagues, doctors, and other professionals.

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you’re looking for a reputable assisted living facility in Myrtle Beach.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest
219 Middleburg Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 903-0700
https://www.reflectionsassistedliving.com/

SELECTING A RESIDENTIAL CARE FACILITY

It can seem overwhelming to choose a residential care facility. However, asking the right questions and understanding what to look out for in a long term care setting can help make it easier. There are many options for residential care. It is important to fully understand the individual’s needs so that you can select the right care.

Residential Care Facilities

Retirement Living

Individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, sometimes referred to as mild stage in medical contexts, may find retirement housing suitable for them. Senior housing may provide limited supervision, but it can offer social activities, transportation, and other amenities.

Assisted living (also known as board and care, adult life or supported care)

Assisted living facilities serve as the bridge between independent living and assisted living. It usually offers housing, meals and support services, as well as health care. The federal government does not regulate assisted living.

Definitions can vary from one state to the next. It is important to ask about the availability of services for residents with dementia at assisted living facilities.

Nursing homes are also known as skilled nursing facility, long term care facility or custodial care)

Nursing homes offer 24-hour care and long-term medical treatment. Many nursing homes offer services and staff that address such issues as nutrition, care planning and spirituality. There are different staff-to resident ratios in nursing homes and staff members have different levels of experience and training. The state licenses nursing homes and the federal government regulates them.

Special Care Units for Alzheimer Patients (SCUs), also known as memory care units, are available.

SCUs can be tailored to the needs of people with Alzheimer’s or other similar conditions. SCUs come in many forms and can be found in a variety of residential care facilities, including assisted living.

Units that are locked or secured can be protected. These units are often cluster settings, in which people with dementia live together on one floor or another within a larger residential facility.

Some states require nursing homes and assisted living facilities to list their fees and the specialized services they provide, such as trained staff and their ability to care for residents.

With behavioral needs. It is important to inquire about the type of care provided by an SCU because laws can vary.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC)

Based on each resident’s needs, Continuing Care Retirement Communities or CCRCs offer different levels of care: independent, assisted living and skilled. If needed, residents can move between the various levels of care in the community. These communities may require a monthly fee or an initial entrance fee.

Visit multiple care facilities. You should make an appointment for your first visit. However, you may also want to schedule a few unannounced visits. Talk to the staff as well as residents, and their families. Ask questions and observe. Visit communities at various times of day, including meals. It is possible to try the local cuisine.

Ask to see the most recent survey/inspection report when you visit a care facility. In some states, request the Special Care Unit Disclosure form, which they need to give. You can see the facilities’ services by looking at the disclosure form and the report. If it is a nursing home, you can go to Medicare’s Nursing Home Compare website to learn how it compares to the national average at medicare.gov/NursingHomeCompare.

Ask your local care team about availability and cost of rooms, as well as participation in Medicare and Medicaid. Even if you’re not ready to make a decision, consider putting your name on a wait list. Ask what happens if someone with dementia runs out on their money if payment is out-of-pocket (or private).

While some communities may accept Medicaid, others might not. To ensure that you have a financial plan in place, consult a lawyer who specializes in eldercare if you think you might need Medicaid in the near future.

Questions to Ask When selecting a residential care community for your loved one, there are many factors you should consider. These include the staff, the environment, and the treatment.

Ask the following questions:

Participation of the family

• Is it possible for families to be involved in care planning?
• How can families be informed about changes in the care and condition of their loved ones?
• Do families feel encouraged to communicate with the staff?

Personal

• Does the hospital provide medical care?
• How frequently are nurses and physicians on call? Are there any registered nurses on-site at all?
• Do you provide personal care and assistance?
• Are you able to tailor care to your specific needs, abilities, and interests?
• Is dementia care taught to staff? Does the state require it? What is the best way to do it?
• How long is the training? What topics are covered?
• How long have employees been employed on average?
• How do staff deal with challenging behavior?
• What is your ratio of staff to residents?

Services and programs

• Are there appropriate programming and services (e.g. small groups, quiet)?
• Rooms) are available depending on your specific needs.
• Are there any planned activities? (Ask for a schedule of activities; take note
• If the activity is taking place at the time you visit, please let us know.
• Are there activities that are available during the evenings or weekends?
• Are there activities that are tailored to specific interests, needs, and abilities?
• Is there transportation for shopping and medical appointments?
• Are they held on a regular basis? Are they available at convenient times?
• What therapies (e.g. physical, occupational speech, recreational) are available?
• Is there special care for dementia?
• Are residents able to attend religious celebrations and services?

Residents

• Is personal care assistance provided with dignity and respect?
• Are there flexible personal care times that can be adapted to the needs of an individual?
• Are residents happy, relaxed, and engaged in activities?
• Are residents clean, well-dressed and properly dressed?
• What is your rate of falling?
• Are residents diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder as their primary diagnosis share the same unit as residents with dementia?

Environment

• Is there any unpleasant odors in the facility?
• Are indoor spaces designed to promote independence as well as freedom of movement?
• Are outdoor and indoor areas secure and safe? Are they monitored?
• Is it easy to navigate the facility?
• Is there an area designated for family visits or a private spot to have visitors?
• Are the resident rooms clean and spacious?
• Is it allowed for residents to bring their own items like chairs?

Meals

• Is there a regular meal or snack time?
• Is food appetizing? (Request the weekly menu so you can come and enjoy a meal.
• Can meals be changed to suit the needs of each individual?
• Is the dining area comfortable and pleasant?
• Can family and friends join you at the mealtime?
• Do staff have a plan to monitor adequate nutrition?
• Can the staff accommodate special dietary requirements (e.g. low sodium) like those who are diabetic?
• Does staff offer appropriate assistance depending on the person’s capabilities?
• (e.g., support during meals or assistance feeding if necessary)
• Is there noise, distractions or other environmental factors that could distract you from your meal like TV?

Policies and procedures

• Can family members and friends participate in the care?
• Are the visiting hours beneficial for the family?
• Have you discussed the discharge policy? (Learn more about any situation.
• Condition that could lead to the facility being closed, such as
• Change in behavior or financial situation.
• Are continuing care options available for residents whose needs change?
• Does the “aging in place” policy allow residents to remain in their community, like the same rooms, as they cope with their disease?
• If a visitor arrives, does the community offer an escort to take them to the emergency room in case of an accident or illness?
• Is the community able to provide end-of life care? Is hospice care if necessary?

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you’re looking for the best place that offers assisted living, personalized care plan, medication management, to name a few, for your loved ones.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest
219 Middleburg Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 903-0700
https://www.reflectionsassistedliving.com/

CHRISTIAN ASSISTED LIVING

Finding Christian Assisted Living Communities

There are many options available for senior care and living, including Christian assisted living. It all depends on the amount of care your loved one requires and their level of independence. After deciding the appropriate level of care, cost and religion can also play an important role in choosing the right care facility. There are many religious-based senior care options available for those who consider religion to be a major deciding factor.

Many senior citizens are looking for retirement communities or assisted living facility to live in their golden years. Seniors need a safe place to call home, as well as a network of friends and family.

Seniors and their families face some of the most difficult decisions in life. This is why so many Christians choose Christian communities to start a new chapter in their lives.

What is Christian Assisted Living?

Although each type of Christian-based senior care will have its own unique amenities, the core values remain the same. Christian-based senior care is centred around Christian values such as compassion, love, and respect for each individual. These care facilities are designed to care for the mind, body and soul of patients while also providing compassionate care. The Christian faith believes that they serve God through serving others. They try to incorporate this belief into their daily lives by following Christ’s example. These beliefs are integrated into Christian-based senior care.

It can be quite simple for seniors to find the right community for them. These Christian assisted living in Myrtle Beach are often geared towards older people of faith. They also offer many other amenities that will ensure residents live comfortably and safely during this difficult time in their lives. Seniors also love the fact that their community is run by Christians who live by the fundamental principles of Christianity and are kind and compassionate towards each other.

The Christian Assisted Living Facility

There are many types of services that can be offered in these communities for Christians of all denominations. Senior citizens may be able to find services on-site or arrange transportation to transport them to local churches.

There are many Christian communities across the country. However, there are also senior care communities that may offer special amenities or groups for Christian seniors. It is important that senior citizens and their families feel at home in a Christian community. They can still practice their faith and maintain their standard of living.

What makes Christian assisted living facilities different from those that are non-faith-based?

They offer faith-based amenities because Christian-based assisted living facilities are committed to taking care of the body, mind, and soul. They may offer visits from a pastor and the opportunity to hear sermons or sing hymns. There might also be Bible readings in prayer groups. Sometimes trips to daily mass can be offered to patients who have transportation. Many times, clergy will visit to offer spiritual guidance, confessions, and communion for those who are unable to get out.

Senior care facilities that are Christian-based do not require you to be of Christian faith. They are open to all religions and will often accommodate them. They may invite a spiritual leader from their faith to visit the facility and offer religious-based activities.

It doesn’t matter what senior community your loved ones are looking for, it matters that they find somewhere they feel at home. This new community will be their home. Christian senior communities offer seniors the perfect way to be comfortable and practice their faith in a caring and open environment.

There are many Christian senior communities, such as Reflections Assisted Living. Are you searching for a new home? We can help you find the right place for you. Call us now.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest
219 Middleburg Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 903-0700
https://www.reflectionsassistedliving.com/

SIGNS THAT IT’S TIME FOR ASSISTED LIVING

Seniors with special needs may benefit from assisted living. It can be difficult to know if your loved ones are a good fit for assisted living. We will discuss some indicators that your loved one is ready to move into assisted living and how they can benefit from assisted living.

Benefits of Assisted Living

Personal Care Problems: Seniors often choose assisted living because they have difficulty with personal care tasks. Assisted living in Myrtle Beach may be a good option if your loved one has difficulty dressing, grooming and bathing themselves. Reflections Assisted Living staff can assist residents with personal care tasks, so they can continue to live independently but still have access to help when necessary.

Decline in Cleanliness: With declining mobility, it becomes more difficult to keep up with housework such as cleaning and laundry. It could be a sign that your loved one is having trouble keeping up with their housework. Seniors can be relieved of these responsibilities and still retain their independence.

Loneliness: Seniors can feel lonely and isolated if they live at home, particularly if they no longer drive. Long periods of isolation have been shown to be linked with obesity, depression, and Alzheimer’s disease. Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest is a positive step for many seniors.

Safety concerns: Seniors are at risk from falling, injury, or other accidents within their homes. You may be concerned about your loved one having an emergency at home if they live alone. You don’t have to worry about your loved ones being left alone in an emergency. With senior living in Myrtle Beach, the staff is available 24/7 and are always on-hand for assistance.

Difficulty driving: Many seniors abandon driving after a while, which can leave them feeling frustrated and isolated at their home. Residents can use assisted living facilities to transport them to appointments and other social events. This allows residents to go out and enjoy their favorite places without having to drive.

Frequent forgetfulness: Although everyone experiences forgetfulness from time to time, some people find it more common and more burdensome as they age. If it becomes a regular occurrence, forgetting to lock the front door or set the alarm can lead to serious consequences. Our company provides a safe environment and can remind seniors to make appointments. We also provide transportation and help with memory loss.

Costs of assisted living

Care costs will vary depending on the size and level of care required. Monthly care includes all expenses, including meals, personal care, housekeeping, community activities and access to amenities. There is an additional charge for medication assistance, hair styling and other personal care.

Financial Assistance 

Seniors often use financial aid to help pay for assisted living. It is important to remember that Medicare doesn’t cover assisted living. This surprise surprises many seniors and their families when they start to look into assisted living. There are still other options.

Medicaid and its Waiver Programs

Medicaid provides financial assistance to seniors who are eligible for the program. Medicaid is not federally regulated like Medicare. It is a joint program of the federal government and the states. Each state has the ability to set its Medicaid guidelines and can also vary in how it covers assisted living.

Medicaid is a waiver program that covers the cost of assisted living in most states. Medicaid waivers enable states to provide benefits and coverage that are not covered by federal guidelines. For example, coverage for long-term senior care. The Home and Community Based Services Medicaid waiver program gives seniors more control over their care and helps to prevent them from being moved to skilled nursing homes. You will need to verify your state’s Medicaid eligibility guidelines and coverage for HCBS waivers.

Veterans Benefits

The Department of Veterans Affairs has several financial assistance programs available for veterans over the age of 50, including the Aid and Attendance. A&A involves paying eligible veterans every month in addition to their VA pension. It helps to cover their long-term care services such as assisted living.

A&A is only available to veterans who are eligible for and have received a VA pension or have served during a war. A veteran must meet several eligibility requirements, including the need for assistance with daily living tasks. A&A is an option for many veterans or their spouse who are in need of assisted living. Veterans must be examined by a doctor to receive this benefit and then complete the VA form.

Life Insurance Settlements

Although not their original purpose, life insurance policies may be used to assist seniors in paying for long-term care such as assisted living. Sometimes, the policy can be purchased by a third party company for 50-75% of its initial value. In what is called an “accelerated death benefit“, some insurance companies allow policyholders to get their benefits early. As with the previous option above, accelerated death benefits almost never equal the value of the initial death benefit. However, it is worthwhile to have liquid cash available to you during your lifetime.

No matter what route you take to obtain a settlement for life insurance, losing your policy’s death benefit can be a difficult decision. Before you make a decision, weigh the pros and disadvantages of accessing your benefit and consult trusted resources.

Reverse Mortgages

Reverse mortgage loans can be used by seniors to pay for assisted living costs. Homeowners can convert some equity in their home into cash or take out a loan against their home’s value with reverse mortgages. This payment is usually tax-free, and seniors can move into a residential care facility like Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest without having to sell their home in order to receive the money.

Reverse mortgages have limitations and may not be the best choice for everyone. Reverse mortgages can “use-up” equity in a home, which leaves less assets for the homeowner’s spouse and heirs. Be aware of scam companies and untrustworthy loaners. It is best to use the federally insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage loan (HECM). HECM loans are backed by the federal Government and typically offer larger advances with a lower total price than loans from private firms.

Insurance for long-term care

LTC insurance, a private type of insurance policy that covers senior care and personal and custodial services, is called long-term care insurance. This insurance policy is more likely to cover the expenses for assisted living compared to Medicaid or private health insurance plans. However, seniors are not usually able to sign up to an LTC insurance policy. This type of insurance is only available to people who have signed up earlier in their lives.

LTC insurance policies can be very different in what they cover. You should review the policy details to see if assisted living is included and, if so, how much per day or year.

Call us now if you’re looking for a place where your senior family member can get the best care possible.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest
219 Middleburg Dr
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579
(843) 903-0700
https://www.reflectionsassistedliving.com/