ASSISTED LIVING: OPTIONS FOR AN AGING PARENT

Your parents were there for you before you could walk or speak a word. They are getting older now and need your help. Although they may not be as fragile and helpless as when you were a newborn, you can see signs of decline. Your father moves with uncertain steps. Your mother forgets that she has to pay her bill. They find simple, everyday tasks frustrating and exhausting. Your “normal” is becoming overwhelming. When this happens, you need to consider if they should move into an assisted living facility.

Your aging parent deserves the best, but how do you get there? How can you provide the best care for your mom without losing her dignity? How can you support your dad to live as independently and fully as possible even as his abilities decline?

Assisted Living and Other Options For Seniors

They can get care in different places. The entire range of home health care services can be provided, including assistance with daily activities (meals, laundry and bill paying), personal care (bathing, dressing, medication administration), physical and occupational therapy, skilled nursing care, for those who require 24-hour assistance, such as:

Private homes: This is the most convenient option for seniors who wish to age in familiar surroundings. You may have to provide in-home care to address the changing needs of your parents. This will help them live as independently and safely as possible.

independent communities/senior living: This is a great option for active and fit seniors who are looking to downsize. Senior living communities are also called retirement communities, senior housing, and senior living. However, they do not typically offer nursing care. Many of them have links to assisted living or nursing care facilities (see below). Independent living communities offer care services through a home care provider for residents who require extra assistance. These communities offer a social life that includes other retired people, as well as a variety of activities such exercise, lectures, concerts, movies, and trips to keep residents stimulated and engaged.

Assisted living communities are for seniors who require some assistance. This option offers private rooms and apartments in a long-term senior housing community. Many support services include meals, medication management, dressing and transportation. Independent providers can also provide additional home care services, just like in retirement communities. Assisted living homes in Myrtle Beach often offer many opportunities for social interaction and programs to keep brain and body active.

Nursing homes: These facilities are for those who have a serious illness or disability. They provide 24 hour monitoring and medical assistance. Patients in nursing homes often have chronic or degenerative conditions such as dementia, respiratory disease, cardiac problems, and other diseases. However, some residents are able to return home after undergoing hip fractures and infections. They may also be able transition to home care. A variety of activities are offered by many nursing homes to accommodate residents’ cognitive and physical abilities.

No matter where your parents live, they will be able to receive the best senior care possible. A combination of factors, including personal temperaments, financial resources, and health care needs, will determine the best solution. Talk to your parents about what they want and need. Ask your parents (and you):

• What amount of assistance do they require?
• What are their strategies for dealing with change and transitions? Are they more excited by change or are they bothered?
• Are they content to live in their homes? Will downsizing make their life easier?
• Are they close to their neighbors? Do they have strong community roots? Will they find new friends in a new place?

These answers will allow you to make the right decision for them and for yourself.

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now and let us provide your loved one with the best care possible.

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

ASSISTED LIVING: WHAT ARE THE ADLS OR IADLS?

Experts who work with seniors often ask older people if they need assistance with their “ADLs” or IADLs especially when they are in an assisted living facility.

These refer to Activities of Daily Living as well as Instrumental Activities of Daily Living. These are key tasks people must manage in order to live independently at home.

It can be helpful to know these terms and related skills if you are a family caregiver or working in an assisted living facility.

A person’s ability to perform ADLs or IADLs can often be correlated with the amount of supervision and care that they require. This will affect the cost of senior care in a facility and whether an older person is able to live at home.

ADL vs. IADL

Activities of Daily Living

These are the self-care basics that were taught to us as children. These are often referred to as “Basic Activities for Daily Living” (BADLs). These include:

• Walking is a way to move around your home and outside the house. This is technically called “ambulating”.
• Feeding is the act of putting food on one’s plate and into your mouth without assistance.
• Dressing as well as grooming. This includes choosing clothes, putting them on and managing one’s appearance.
• Toileting means to get to and from the bathroom, use it properly, and clean oneself.
• Bathing, refers to washing the face and body in the shower or bath.
• Transferring is the ability to move from one position to another. This can include being able move from one position to another, such as from a bed to a seat or a chair to another. It can also mean being able to get up from a chair or bed to grab a walker, or other assistive device.

Professionals at assisted living in Myrtle Beach usually provide information about how much assistance a person needs if they are not fully independent with ADLs.

People may need help with any ADL. This could be as simple as reminding them or being on “stand-by” to complete dependency that requires others to perform the task.

Instrumental Activities of Daily Living

These are self-care skills that teenagers learn. These tasks require higher levels of thinking and organizational skills. These include:

• Management of finances: Paying bills, managing assets and budgeting.
• Manage transportation either by driving or organizing other modes of transport.
• You can shop for groceries and prepare your meal. It covers all the necessary items to put a meal on the table. This also includes shopping for clothes and other essentials for daily living.
• Cleaning and maintaining your home. This includes cleaning up the kitchen after each meal, maintaining a tidy living area, and taking care of home maintenance.
• Management of communication such as telephone and mail.
• Management of medications includes obtaining and using medications as directed.

Why Are ADLs and IADLs Essential?

In order to live independently, an older adult must be able manage ADLs and IADLs.

As part of an assessment of an older person’s “function”, Geriatricians evaluate ADLs and IADLs. ADL and IADL problems are usually a sign of deterioration in physical and/or mental health. It is possible to diagnose and treat important health issues by identifying functional problems.

It is also essential to recognize functional problems because we want older adults to get the support and help they need to overcome or compensate for these problems. Family caregivers may also be able to provide assistance to a loved one who is in need.

Reflections Assisted Living can work with residents that have at least one of the six basic ADLs. Call us today to discuss your specific situation.

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

WHAT IS CONGREGATE HOUSING FOR SENIORS?

Congregate housing is a type of senior housing where seniors live in their own apartments, but share common spaces like a kitchen and dining room with other residents. This housing model aims to give seniors independence while also providing assistance with certain tasks such as cooking.

Congregate living is not able to provide 24/7 care but many facilities have a housing coordinator and specialist who can help residents with daily tasks. The coordinator is responsible for organizing emergency response services, ensuring security, making repairs and even settling disputes.

What are the requirements to be eligible for congregate housing

Most residents must be at least 62 years of age or disabled to meet the criteria. Residents must be able and able to pay for congregate care. They also need assistance with daily living activities. Congregate housing requires cooperation between residents. Anyone considering this arrangement must be able to live in a group and interact with others.

Congregate housing coordinators have the responsibility of reviewing applications and determining if they are suitable for group living. Acceptance is usually easy for those who meet the eligibility requirements.

What are the advantages of congregate housing?

Congregate housing has the greatest advantage: it is affordable. Many seniors are struggling to live on a fixed income. It can be fully or partially subsidized by the state depending on the income of the residents. Congregate housing plans are established to assist low-income seniors who need help with daily chores like meal preparation, housekeeping, and cleaning.

Congregate housing is for seniors. It allows older adults to remain independent while still having access to resources and support. Congregate living is a way for seniors to become independent, unlike other senior communities. The apartments offer privacy but there are resources available for those who require them.

Living in close proximity to others is another benefit. There are always people available to help in an emergency or when someone requires routine assistance.

Seniors looking for companionship in a social setting can overcome loneliness. Seniors can find companionship in a group setting. Seniors can stay active, get outside more often, and maintain good mental health.

Families can also benefit from congregate housing because it is affordable and can be a great option for those who are busy caring for elderly loved ones. Many can’t afford a senior care facility. Congregate housing is affordable so families can feel confident that their loved ones will be happy. Family members can visit their loved ones and keep close ties with them.

What are the downsides of congregate housing?

Congregate housing is a good option for seniors but it’s not for everyone. Some people find group living difficult. Some people might not like working in a group and may become dissatisfied with the social aspect that contributes to the well-being within the community.

A downside to congregate housing is the lack of access to medical care. Congregate housing is not for everyone. It is important to consider your current and future health before you decide on congregate housing. For those with health issues or who need additional assistance, this arrangement may prove difficult.

Some seniors find it difficult to transition into retirement and into a new arrangement just like what happens to assisted living. Some seniors may need more privacy than what congregate housing offers or they might not be able to deal with social interaction and changes. At-home care might be a better option for them.

Where can I find congregate housing close to me?

It can be difficult to find congregate housing for seniors. Congregate housing is not the most popular type of senior living.

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you want to learn more about senior care and what options you can choose from.

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

WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR VA BENEFITS FOR ASSISTED LIVING

It can be difficult to understand the VA benefits you are eligible for especially when it involves assisted living.

This guide will help you understand the benefits and determine if you are eligible. Continue reading to learn more about VA benefits for assisted living and how to obtain the help that you may be eligible for.

Is the VA able to cover the costs of assisted living?

Although your VA benefits may cover many things, the simple answer is that they do not directly cover for the expenses that involve assisted living in Myrtle Beach.

However, this doesn’t mean your VA benefits will not be helpful in paying for your assisted living costs.

The VA offers a variety of programs that could be used to support veterans looking for senior care.

Although there is no direct program to assist veterans in need of senior care, VA benefits for assisted living are available to a certain degree. Continue reading to learn more about these benefits and how to access them.

What is the Aid and Attendance Program

The VA offers the Aid and Attendance program, which allows eligible veterans to receive additional funds in addition to the benefits they already receive. These funds can be used to assist veterans in completing activities of daily living (ADLs).

Requirements For Eligibility For Assisted Living Benefits

You must meet the following requirements to be eligible for the Aid & Attendance Program:

• You must be a veteran of the United States
• You must require assistance for someone else with everyday tasks.
• You must be bedridden
• You need to have some eye conditions

You should be staying in a nursing home because you need care due to a disability or physical incapacity.

You do not have to meet all the requirements to be eligible for this program. While you do not need to be a veteran of the United States, you can still be eligible for this program if your eyesight is not impaired or you are unable to perform daily tasks independently.

Do VA benefits cover assisted living?

Yes, assisted living expenses can be covered by certain benefits even though there isn’t an assisted living VA program.

Veteran-Directed Care Program

The Veteran Directed Care Program is similar to the Aid and Attendance Program that provides additional funds for eligible veterans to allow them to choose and hire the caregivers they prefer.

This program allows veterans the freedom to decide what is best for them, either by themselves or with the help of a representative.

This benefit is meant to help both the veteran as well as their caregiver. It allows them to be as active as possible, maintains their health, and still provide support for their loved ones.

Veteran Directed Care Program provides a unique opportunity for veterans to create a support network.

Although the VA does not offer specific benefits for assisted living, some may consider the Veteran Directed Care Program to be one of the VA benefits for assisted living.

To be eligible for this program, a veteran must:

• Register for VA benefits
• Specific clinical criteria must be met
• Must Be Eligible To Get Community care
• Be Located In A Place The Offers The Program

What other options are available to veterans for assisted living with VA benefits?

These programs are not your only options for finding the care that you need.

Veterans have many options for care and support, including a VA community center or an Armed Forces Retirement Home.

VA Community Living Center

The VA Community Living Center is a similar facility to a nursing home.

These facilities are VA-run, and help veterans return to peak health or prevent future decline.

Similar facilities often get a bad reputation for being cold and distant. However, these facilities take extra measures to make residents feel at home. They encourage residents to decorate their rooms and even allow pets to stay.

VA Community Living Centers might be an option for veterans who meet the requirements and are in search of short-term or longer-term care.

VA Community Living Centers are a great fit for some people, but the nursing home-like structure can mean less independence and comfort for others.

Armed Forces Retirement Home

The Armed Forces Retirement Home is a Federal Government initiative that provides eligible veterans and their spouses with a community that offers meaningful activities and lots of exposure to history, heritage and culture.

Two locations are available at the Armed Forces Retirement Home: one in Washington DC and one in Gulfport MS.

The AFRH offers many great benefits.

The Armed Forces Retirement home is not a nursing facility. To be eligible for residence at the AFRH, you must be able and willing to live on your own after admission.

This includes:

• Personal care
• Get your meal in the dining facility
• Attending to all your medical appointments

AFRH residents should also be exempt from:

• Convictions for felonies
• Problems with drugs
• Psychiatric issues
• Alcohol problems

You must remain independent once you move into your home. However, as you age and become less independent there are many care options for veterans.

These options include:

• Assisted Living Facilities in Myrtle Beach
• Memory care
• Long-term care

These services are available only after the resident moves in and starts to require them.

The AFRH is more like a retirement community than an assisted-living facility.

The AFRH may not be the right community for you if you’re looking for support for your daily needs.

The AFRH offers veterans a comfortable, affordable retirement option that is affordable for them and their spouses.

State Veterans Home

State Veterans Homes has a rich history, which dates back to the beginning of the post-civil War era. They provide the opportunity for veterans to live comfortable, safe, and meaningful lives.

These homes were originally built to provide shelter and resources for homeless veterans and disabled veterans.

These facilities provide adult day care, nursing homes, and domiciliary care.

State Veterans Homes, as the name implies, are managed by the individual states and not the VA.

Each facility is subject to an annual inspection by the VA to ensure it meets all standards.

Before a facility can be considered a State Veterans’ Home, it must be approved and inspected by the VA.

Who is eligible for VA Benefits for Assisted Living

Some veterans are not eligible for VA benefits that may be used for assisted living.

To be eligible for these benefits, there are some basic requirements.

• Honorable discharge,
• Age 65+, or permanently disabled
• A minimum service requirement.

When you are considering your options, it is important to keep in mind the financial and medical eligibility requirements.

Eligibility for Medical Care

To be eligible for additional benefits, you must meet certain medical requirements.

The VA requires that those seeking these benefits must be able show that they have a medical need. You may need to meet additional requirements depending on the benefit. For the most current information regarding medical eligibility requirements, contact the VA directly.

Financial Eligibility

To receive certain benefits, you must be below a certain income level. Details can change from benefit to benefit. Your best bet for finding the most reliable and current information is to contact your Veterans Benefits advisor.

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you’re looking for a caring, comfortable, and reputable facility for your loved ones.

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

THE NEGATIVE IMPACT OF FAMILY CAREGIVING ON MENTAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH

The latest Caregiving in America Report estimates that 41.8 million Americans provide free, unpaid care to someone 50 years old or older. It is a difficult task to assume responsibility for someone’s happiness, health, and finances. This is compounded by the fact that informal family caregivers are often not well prepared and receive little support in their efforts. As seniors age, they become more vulnerable to chronic diseases, need more care, and are more likely to seek out family members for help.

Although caring for a loved one can be rewarding and can help them to live in their preferred location, caregivers often feel overwhelmed as they try to care for their family members while taking care of their own families, and work. This can lead to serious consequences.

The Emotional Effects Of Family Caregiving

In some cases, short-term stress can be helpful. Acute stress is sometimes a good thing. It helps us to stay focused and motivated, which can help us overcome challenges. However, humans are not designed to deal with high levels of stress for a long time.

When someone you care about is sick, you already feel strong emotions. Family caregivers are not only concerned about the well-being of their loved ones, but also take some responsibility for it. The caregiver is pressured to perform better and more efficiently by the patient, their family members, and even medical professionals.

These emotions can lead to feelings of frustration, anger, resentment and exhaustion over time. Loneliness and sadness can also occur when caregivers have little support. Family caregivers don’t know how long they need to take on these responsibilities.

While the average length of a caregiver’s role is approximately 4.5 years, those who care for people with progressive chronic conditions such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s can be in this position for up to ten years.

Burnout can be caused when caregivers neglect the effects of stress and don’t prioritize their emotional well-being. Caregivers must be aware of their emotional limits and take a regular inventory of their behavior and moods. It’s time for caregivers to step back and assess how they can minimize their responsibilities.

The Physical Effects Of Caregiving

It is well-known that mental and physical health are interrelated. Long-term stress can have a negative impact on your dietary habits, sleep quality, and immune system. These factors can be harmful to a healthy person. However, caregivers who have existing medical conditions can find them life-threatening.

Family caregivers often skip preventive measures for themselves and that could lead to serious health problems. For the prevention, early detection, and treatment of serious health issues, it is important to attend regular screenings, and doctor’s appointments, and get immunized.

These oversights are often due to a lack of funds, time and energy. Many family members put the needs of their loved ones before their own. Although the intention is noble, it can backfire.

A famous study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that spouses caring for someone with mental or emotional stress had a 63 percent higher chance of dying than those who were not caregivers.

It is important to prioritize the needs of your loved ones. But who will take care of them if they are hospitalized, need long-term care, or die? That’s why assisted living facilities exist. It can help you when your loved ones need specialized and long-term care.

Caregivers Need to Take Care of Themselves

It is impossible for caregivers to be constantly “on duty,” even if they are health care professionals such as nurses or doctors. It’s not optional to take time off from caring for someone you love. It’s important and is considered a necessity. Regular rest and sleep are a great way to maintain your mental and physical health and prevent any problems from developing.

There are many types of respite care. It ensures that the care recipient gets the supervision and assistance they require, so you can focus on other important tasks. Adult daycare, assisted living facilities in Myrtle Beach, memory care centers, retirement homes, senior living centers, and in-home care can provide temporary relief from the caregiving responsibilities.

You can use this time to take a walk, go to your doctor’s appointments, do breathing exercises, or spend time with friends. These activities will help you to recharge your mind and protect your physical health.

You want the best for your loved one, and you can’t do that if you don’t give your all. Stress is a function of how you react to challenges and of what you do. Consider handing over some duties if your situation becomes overwhelming. You also need to prioritize self-care, even if it’s only temporary.

Noting that senior care issues such as dementia, incontinence, and frequent falls can cause can overburden the people who take care of them. It could lead to a permanent transition to an assisted living facility like Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest. Although this is a difficult decision for most families, there is nothing wrong with recognizing the need for additional help.

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest if you’re looking for a reliable and 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/

HOME CARE VS. ASSISTED LIVING HOMES

Is it possible to receive the right care in your own home? Or would it be better to move into an assisted living home that can provide long-term care? As we age, this is a question many of us will ask ourselves. This can be a difficult time, whether it’s moving around the house or getting around to important appointments.

It is possible to receive senior care at home with the help of medical equipment and technology. This is a good thing. But, not everyone should remain at home. You should take into consideration everything, from your financial situation to your ability levels.

What are Assisted Living Homes?

For those who need only a little assistance with their daily lives, assisted living homes can be a great option. This means that while assisted living homes can help residents organize medications and other tasks, they do not offer long-term full-time care.

Congregate housing, residential care, domiciliary care, or adult congregate are all terms used to describe assisted living homes. The United States has almost 30,000 assisted-living homes. These homes currently house around 1.2 million people. The residents are mostly mobile people over 65 years old.

People who require specialized care or need to use a wheelchair for mobility or have cognitive or behavioral impairments should be discouraged from moving into an assisted living facility. While most assisted living residents move on to nursing homes eventually, some residents choose to move back home or to another assisted living facility.

Maintaining Independence

Assisted living homes allow residents the freedom to live independently as long as they wish without having to compromise their safety. They protect residents’ dignity, privacy, and autonomy while emphasizing family and community involvement.

Many assisted living homes to promote the right of residents to practise or abstain from religion. They also encourage them to socialize and interact with others in the facility.

Visitors are welcome to visit an assisted living in Myrtle Beach at any hour of the day or night. Many assisted living homes allow pets.

Service and Residence

Seniors living in assisted living homes typically have their own apartments or semi-private ones. The residences typically include a bedroom and a bathroom, although this may vary from one facility to the next. Daily assistance is provided to residents with daily tasks like dressing, eating, and bathing. There are three meals a day, and many activities for education and exercise.

Other assisted living services include housekeeping, home health, recreation, laundry, and social and religious activities.

What is In-Home Care?

In-home care is one of America’s fastest-growing and most sought after services. In-home care agencies offer a variety of services, from companionship to supervision and personal attention. Individuals who wish to remain at home but need care beyond what their family or friends can provide may find it beneficial to hire an in-home caregiver.

This allows seniors to age in their own homes. In-home care plans often include both skilled and non-medical services as well as assisted living. There was no distinction between “home healthcare” and “in-homecare” in the past. However, people often called as “home health care” whenever it involves skilled nursing. Meanwhile, it’s referred to as “in-home” care if it is only non-medical.

These differences, while they may seem small, are crucial because they allow people to understand the quality of care offered. This will have a significant impact on the cost of care as well as the funding sources available to cover these costs.

Services that are not medically necessary include:

• Personal care
• Companionship
• Light housekeeping
• Laundry
• Reminders for medication
• Preparation of meals
• Supervision
• Errands
• Shopping
• Transport

Insurance companies and in-home care agencies often use the individual’s ADL rating (Activities of Daily Living), to assess their needs. ADL ratings are determined by six activities that indicate an individual’s ability to provide self-care. These activities include:

• Walking
• Bade-taking
• Transferring
• Dressing
• Food
• Toilet use

These activities are used by insurance companies to determine if an individual is eligible for benefits. These activities are used by in-home care agencies to determine the cost of services and ensure that qualified caregivers are assigned to the client. Instrumental Activities of Daily Living or IADL is a six-step process that assesses an individual’s ability to live independently in their home.

These six tasks are:

• Financial management
• Take medication
• Use the phone
• Shopping for clothing and food
• Light housework
• Preparation of meals

Tips To Help You Choose

It doesn’t mean that you will be able to make an easy decision, even if your understanding of assisted living homes or in-home care is perfect. This is a crucial step in your life, or in the lives of a loved one. You want to ensure that you make the right decision.

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you’re looking for the best 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/

SELECT THE RIGHT TYPE OF SENIOR LIVING

When it comes to finding the best senior living community, you should choose the right place. There are many options available, including independent living, assisted living and memory care, as well as continuing care retirement communities or community living plans. These questions will help you decide which community is right for you.

Asking The Right Questions About Senior Living

Your answers to community-specific questions can help you determine what kind of senior living community is right for you.

Independent Living

Independent living communities are popular choices for older adults. They offer convenience and socialization. Is this the right choice for you? Do you think it is right for you?

• Are you an independent, active senior?
• Can you do your personal care?
• Is it possible to manage your own medications independently?
• Are you able and do you plan to continue your active lifestyle?

An independent living community is a great choice if you don’t want to worry about house maintenance and repairs so that you can spend more time with your family and friends.

Assisted Living

An assisted living community is often a compromise between adult children and their parents. Seniors can remain in their own apartment or suite, preserving their independence and privacy. Their adult child will feel secure knowing that their parent is safe and that they have the support and care they require.

• Is assisted living the best choice?
• Do you see any signs that more assistance is required with daily activities like dressing and bathing?
• Are there growing concerns about safety and personal care?
• Are you prone to falls?
• Are meal preparations becoming more complicated?
• Are they suffering from health issues or have they become too tired to care for their family?
• Are home care costs more expensive than moving to an assisted living facility?
• Are mobility issues making it difficult or impossible to safely move inside and outside your home?
• Are you concerned about isolation?

If yes to any of these questions, then you should learn more about assisted living in Myrtle Beach in your area.

Memory Care

Memory care is a special type of care that provides care for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of age-related dementia. Research continues to prove that memory care programs are effective in helping people with Alzheimer’s disease. These programs can be very effective in maintaining the quality of life for people with memory loss. If you have any questions about your loved one, consult your doctor.

• Do you require safety supervision 24/7?
• Is there a difficult behavior to manage, such as aggression, wandering, and Sundowner’s Syndrome?
• Do you find it difficult to stay engaged in meaningful activities?
• Is caring for a loved one putting a strain on your family and career?
• Do you or others in your care experience stress-related illnesses?

If the answer is yes, you should consult professionals to learn more about memory care programs in your area.

Life Plan Community or Retirement Communities Offering Continuing Care

These settings, which are similar to campuses offer all aspects of senior care, right from independent living to skilled nursing and assisted living. Many offer memory care, home care, as well as hospice services. CCRCs, or life plan communities, are a great option for seniors who want to be independent and active, but also plan for the future. This is the right option for you.

• Do you want a community that can not only meet your current, independent agenda but also adapt to future changes in your health?
• Do you think it would be better to not ask your adult children for assistance in caring for your spouse or yourself?
• Are you a senior citizen who needs one type of senior living but your spouse needs another?

For seniors looking for a long-term solution, a CCRC (or life plan community) can provide a great option.

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you are looking for the best assisted living community in Myrtle Beach.

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

IS ASSISTED LIVING THE BEST OPTION?

Some people find it difficult and overwhelming to choose an assisted living community. You take the time to research the options before a crisis occurs and you will find it educational, informative and rewarding.

What is assisted living?

It is important to understand what assisted living is.

Long-term care options such as assisted living offer seniors a wide range of services including housing, support services and social opportunities. They also have access to 24-hour staffing. Assisted Living in Myrtle Beach is a way to help those with disabilities or need memory care. However, unlike institutional care, assisted living provides these services in a home-like setting. This option is less costly and offers a more personal, enriching approach to life.

Residents are encouraged to retain as much freedom and autonomy as possible, while receiving assistance with basic needs such as laundry, meals, medication, bathing, and dressing.

The Residences

Many assisted living communities offer studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments that residents can decorate to their liking. Every residence has an emergency call system to connect residents with staff in case of an emergency. Some also come with a small kitchen. It should be accessible for wheelchair users. Most often, the cost of utilities, grounds keeping, maintenance, as well as other services and amenities, are included in the price.

Personal Care

Residents in Assisted Living communities are proud to receive personalized care. Residents receive assessments before they move in. This allows caregivers to create personalized care plans that address each resident’s needs and cater to their preferences.

The Lifestyle

Assisted Living provides more than just care for residents. It also offers educational, social and wellness activities that encourage interaction and engagement. There are many communities that offer assisted living communities. The range and depth of their lifestyle options can differ greatly. Families and residents are often unaware of this important aspect of assisted living.

Long-term, many seniors will benefit from having a variety of engaging and healthy lifestyle choices.

The Differences

Apart from the many variations in lifestyle programming and activities, assisted living communities can also vary in:

• Ownership structure
• Service and amenities provided at a high level
• The extent to which medical care is available on-campus
• Pricing structures
• Overall costs
• Operating philosophies
• Pervading culture such as a Christian environment

These are the key differences that potential residents and their families need to be aware of when comparing assisted living communities.

These key differences are important to consider when comparing assisted-living communities.

Services

Assisted Living provides support and assistance with “activities of daily life” (they call these ADLs). These services may include:

• Three meals and snacks daily
• Housekeeping and laundry service
• Access health care and other medical services
• Assistance with eating and dressing
• Medication management

Amenities

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest  offers a variety of amenities, including:

• Dining and community rooms
• Beauty salon and exercise/physical therapy gymnasium
• Outdoor patio, garden, and walking path
• Library/computer area
• Games room

The amenities package usually includes utilities, grounds keeping, and maintenance.

Lifestyle

This is a crucial aspect of assisted living. Residents and their families often overlook this important aspect when considering different options. The following lifestyle options should be included at a minimum:

• Programs for exercise and wellness
• Social and recreational activities
• Scheduled transportation

Be sure to inquire about their other offerings, beyond these basic lifestyle features.

How to evaluate assisted living

These are the three main criteria to consider when comparing Assisted Living providers.

• Quality of life
• Standard of care
• Value and cost

Visit The Assisted Living Community

A personal tour is the best way to find out if an assisted living community is right for your needs. The tour will allow you to meet the staff and possibly some residents. It is important to evaluate the environment and other features of the community. This includes access to services and amenities, housing features, dining options, lifestyle choices, costs, and financing options. These elements will give you a general impression of the community.

Ask lots of questions

These are questions that you can ask while touring the area to help you get to know the people and places. It is important to get a clear understanding of the daily life in the community.

Administrative

• Who will I be contacting most in the community?
• How can you keep the family informed about parent’s health and care?
• How can you keep the family members informed about the activities and events in your community?
• Who is the caregiver team in the community?
• Do your employees have any certifications or training?
• How will I be charged for my parent’s care and apartment?
• Do you have any financial assistance?
• What is the philosophy of care in your community?
• What should you do if is experiencing a medical emergency?
• What is the average length of stay for residents in the community?
• Why and when would my loved one need to leave the community?

Services

• How will you do the initial assessment of my mom to determine her care requirements?
• What is the average time mom will receive hands-on care per day?
• How can you help me care for my family members?
• What does housekeeping and laundry service actually mean? What are the charges for housekeeping and laundry services?
• What menu options are there in the dining room’s restaurant?
• When you visit an assisted living facility, make sure you try the food!
• Are family members allowed to share a meal in the dining room with mom?
• Which level of care is included in the base price and what would my additional charges be?

Amenities

What security system is in place for the community?

• Which amenities are most used by residents and for which activities?
• Is it possible to have small events in a private space?
• What amenities are available for visiting grandchildren?
• What are the most important medical services that can be found on-site? Doctor’s office? Wellness Center? Therapy? What are pharmacy services? Hospice? What about ancillary doctors?

Lifestyle

• How can you help my mom/dad to transition into the community?
• What is a typical day for a resident?
• What guidelines should residents follow for attire?
• Is it possible for them to keep her own sleeping and waking hours?
• What are the top things that residents love to do?
• Is it allowed to have pets in the community? If yes, who will take care of the pets?
• What makes the community’s lifestyle plan different from other lifestyle programs?
• How do you create new ideas and what is the programming philosophy of your activity department?

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you are looking for the best assisted living 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/