MEMORY CARE: SPECIALIZED SUPPORT FOR PEOPLE WITH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE OR DEMENTIA

Memory care is a great option if it becomes difficult to care at home for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Memory care is a type of long-term residential care that offers intensive and specialized care to people with memory problems.

Many nursing homes, continuing care retirement communities, and assisted living facilities have memory care “neighborhoods”, which are designed for dementia patients. You can also find standalone memory care facilities.

According to the National Investment Center for Seniors Housing & Care (a non-profit that tracks industry trends), memory care is the fastest growing sector in senior housing. As COVID-19 devastated many long-term care facilities, occupancy rates dropped in 2020.

Many assisted living facilities have had to struggle with staffing since the pandemic. The quality of memory care units has also varied widely. As you think about whether memory care is right for your loved one, it’s important that you visit the facility and ask questions.

What is the difference between memory care and other types of care?

Memory care is designed for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia to have a structured, safe environment that reduces stress. The employees provide meals and assist residents with personal care tasks. However, they have been specially trained to handle the unique problems that can arise from dementia. They visit residents more often and offer extra structure and support to help them get through their day.

Residents in regular assisted living are expected to manage their time. Menus and meal times are posted but staff are not constantly checking in on them. In memory care, staff make sure residents get to their meals, go to activities, and etc.

Memory care facilities use alarm doors and elevators that require codes to ensure residents stay on the premises. Many facilities offer tracking bracelets, which allow residents to roam freely but also permit staff to track their movements.

Activities are offered to enhance cognitive function and encourage residents at various stages of the disease.

Selecting a memory care facility

Start your search at AARP or the Alzheimer’s Association’s Online Resource Finder. This online directory includes information about senior care services. Click on “Housing Options”, select the type of residence you want (e.g. assisted living or continuing-care retirement community), and then enter your zip code. The results will show information about whether the facility offers memory care.

Experts recommend visiting each memory care residence you have narrowed down several times. This includes at least one visit in the evening when staffing is less.

These are some things to keep in mind as you search.

Factors To Consider 

Layout and physical environment

Is it clean and comfortable? Are there circular hallways so that residents don’t feel lost? Are all rooms and doors clearly marked (with pictures and words) so residents can find their way around? Are there walking paths in an enclosed area? Are residents happy?

The Staff

Many long-term care facilities across the country are now severely short of staff because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Ask about staff shortages in the communities you visit. Also, pay attention to how staff interact with residents. Are they able to meet their needs quickly? Does the building have a nurse? What type of dementia-specific training does the staff receive? You should ask how they handle someone who is aggressive.

COVID-19 policies

The pandemic was particularly devastating to long-term care facilities. Many memory care patients were left feeling lonely and isolated during lockdowns. Research shows that dementia patients with dementia experienced a rise in their mental health, agitation, and severe behavioral disturbances due to social restrictions.

Ask about the rules that will be in effect in case of an outbreak when you are looking at a center. Is visitation allowed? If so, how will it be done? What will the staff do to communicate with families? What will the staff do with families?

Food and other activities

Is there any activity that could keep your loved one entertained? What are the strategies used by staff to encourage residents to eat? Watch to see if staff engages residents in the activities.Do they seem like they know residents personally?

Access to continuing care

Some assisted living units for memory care can’t offer complex medical care. Learn about the health conditions and behaviors that could force your loved one out of the facility or make it more costly. Ask if the facility is accepting Medicaid.

What is the cost of memory care?

It is not surprising that the memory care unit offers a higher level of supervision and care, but it comes with a steep price.

The average monthly memory care rent in the United States is $6,935. This is significantly higher than assisted living which averages $5380 per month but much lower than the $10562 average monthly cost for a nursing home.

Prices vary from one state to the next and are affected by the quality of care received.

Medicare Advantage and Medicare will generally not pay for personal care or room and board in an assisted living facility. However, they will cover the cost of medical care provided by the facility. Veteran benefits often cover the cost of assisted living facilities for eligible veterans, and surviving spouses. Medicaid coverage may be available for your loved one if they no longer have assets. However, it is only available if the facility agrees to provide long-term care.

Most families who use memory care must pay out of their own pocket. If your loved one has long-term care insurance, it can be very helpful. To help pay the cost, families might sell assets or tap into the “living benefits” on a life-insurance policy.

You need to plan if you believe they will need memory care. There are many ways to preserve assets and be eligible for Medicaid.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest can help if you’re looking for the best facility for your loved one who needs specialized care.

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

CHECKLIST FOR MOVING TO ASSISTED LIVING

Although moving seniors into assisted living can be difficult, there are ways to make the move smoother and reduce stress.

You can simplify and make your loved one’s move easier by making arrangements early and planning for their new space in the assisted living facility.

How to move a parent into assisted living

Moving is not an easy task. You can make sure that your loved one and you have a smooth transition by taking care of these details.

• You will take care of all logistics
• After the details have been finalized, it is time to make some phone calls.
• Notify all parties necessary of any change in address (USPS or Social Security Administration, for example).
• Share your new address and contact information with your friends and family.
• Notify utilities and other service providers of your intention to disconnect.
• If necessary, transfer prescriptions
• Verify with the assisted living community that all paperwork required for a move is completed

Keep the new space in your mind when planning ahead

It is important to know the dimensions of the space so that you can determine which furniture pieces will fit. However, it may also help to plan the layout.

• Ask for a copy of their floor-plan
• Ask for a list of items will be provided by the community
• Ask your community for information and rules regarding prohibited items
• Layout furniture and other decorative pieces

Start the downsizing process

It is possible to simplify your loved one’s move by downsizing, but it can be difficult to know where to begin. It’s not easy to decide between keeping something because it’s there for a long period of time or because it adds value. These tips may help you to identify the difference. Here are some items that you can start with:

• Furniture that is heavy and large
• A wealth of collectables and knickknacks
• Throw rugs, area rug rugs, and other decorative items that can be placed on the floor
• Chairs with or without armrests, or on wheels
• Rarely worn clothing and jewellery
• Duplicates of products

Hire movers

It is crucial to find trustworthy and reliable movers. It is important to find reliable, trustworthy movers.

• Get cost estimates
• Check online reviews
• Confirm your availability for the move-in date
• Verify that the moving company has proper insurance and licensing
• Confirm your ability to transport heavy or special items (e.g. hospital bed)

How to pack your parent’s belongings when they move to assisted living

You should now be able to pack your loved one’s belongings after you have gone through the downsizing process.

It is a good idea to pack items according to their frequency of use. This will allow your loved one to live comfortably at home and still make progress towards the move-in date.

Things to pack early:

• Keep your legal and financial documents easily accessible
• Photos and keepsakes
• Accessory and clothing for the season
• Hobby supplies
• Movies, books, and puzzles
• Decor

You can pack these items for the week before you move in:

• Toiletries and personal items
• Products for health and wellness
• Cleaning supplies
• Housewares and appliances
• Furniture
• Television and other electronic devices

How to help your parent move to assisted living

It can be difficult for all involved to move elderly parents into assisted living in Myrtle Beach. However, there are ways that you can help them adapt and embrace the change long after they have moved.

• Keep in touch via text, photos, and phone calls
• Visits with family members can be coordinated
• To make their new home feel homey, bring personal items
• Respect their space while they adjust

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you are looking for the perfect place for your elderly loved ones.

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

SENIOR CAREGIVER DUTIES YOU MAY EXPERIENCE

As an elderly caregiver, you may need to help with things like grocery shopping, cooking, managing medication, and even helping with appointments. Caregiver responsibilities will depend on the health and needs of the individual being cared for.

What does it mean to be a caregiver?

A caregiver is someone who takes care of the well-being and health of an individual who requires assistance with daily activities and tasks. A caregiver may be needed by an elderly loved one due to an injury, illness, mobility issues, memory problems, or other chronic conditions that make daily chores more difficult.

Long-term caregiving can have a significant impact on caregivers’ physical and emotional health, depending on how much support is provided. To determine if in-home care is right for you, and if you need more specialized care, consider the health and abilities of your loved one.

What is a caregiver supposed to do?

While assisted living caregiving duties may vary each day, some basic tasks remain the same when caring for an aging parent or senior loved one.

You can expect to take on the role of caregiver for an elderly family member.

1. Assess the medical needs

It is the responsibility of caregivers to check on the health of their senior loved ones. You might be asked to assist with managing chronic conditions, pain management, scheduling medical appointments, and medication management. It is a good idea for your loved one to talk about their health with their doctor and other healthcare professionals.

2. Prepare a care plan

When you start your journey of caregiving, it can be beneficial to create a care plan that addresses the needs and goals of your senior loved ones. You can use a plan to determine the daily care that your loved one needs and whether additional support is needed to protect their safety and health.

3. Assist with the basic needs

Mobility and memory issues can make it difficult for someone with dementia to do daily activities (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, and toileting. To determine if your loved ones need additional assistance, check in frequently and pay close attention to any changes or signs.

4. Offer companionship

Companionship is an essential part of senior caregiving that’s often overlooked. Loneliness in senior caregiving can have serious consequences for health, including depression. At Reflections Assisted Living we create opportunities to strengthen bonds and connections with regular group activities.

5. Housekeeping assistance

Maintaining a home for your loved one can be more difficult as they age. Older adults might need assistance with chores such as vacuuming, dishes washing, and garbage collection. Your loved one may find yard work such as snow shovelling or daily maintenance too difficult for them. You might be able to offer support and convenience to your loved one in a senior living facility.

6. Monitor medication

Many prescription drugs are prescribed to older adults for chronic conditions. It is possible that your loved one needs assistance in keeping track of their medications, understanding drug interactions and taking the prescribed dosages. Monitoring your loved one’s medication and setting up reminder systems can help reduce the risk of medication misinterpretations and other health problems.

7. Regularly review your care plan

The care plan should be modified as your life and that of your loved one change. To determine what is working and what is not, review your caregiver duties regularly. To discuss any changes, keep in touch with your loved one’s physician and other healthcare professionals.

8. Make sure to prepare meals

As we age, food preparation can be more difficult. Your loved one may not have the motivation or energy to cook if they are alone. Some people may have memory or balance problems that make cooking difficult. As a caregiver, your role is to help the loved one with grocery shopping, cooking, and finding alternative recipes.

9. Assist with mobility and transfer

Falling is a serious risk for older adults’ health. You may notice that your loved one is having difficulty moving from their bed to a chair. You can help prevent falls for your loved ones and keep them safe and comfortable.

10. Transport

Public transportation and driving might no longer be options for your loved ones as they age. To get your loved one to appointments or other activities, you might want to consider senior transportation options.

Contact Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest today if you feel you have the ability to provide more assistance to your loved ones in caring for them or if you think they would benefit from senior living communities.

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

ASSISTED LIVING FOR A LOVED ONE? HOW TO MAKE HOLIDAYS JOYFUL FOR EVERYONE

Holiday stress levels can increase and families who have a loved one in an assisted living facility may worry about how to include them in the festivities.

As opposed to independent living or nursing homes, assisted living residents are usually mobile enough to move around. However, they may have limitations due to advanced age or medical issues.

This can create some burden. Many families don’t know if their relatives should move to be with the family during holiday celebrations. Holiday stressors can cause families to worry about how much time they have to spend visiting relatives, especially if the distance is an issue.

No matter how many times you see your loved ones who are living in an assisted living facility, it will feel as though it’s enough. And you’re going to feel guilty that you should spend more time there. This is what causes anxiety. Do not beat yourself up if it isn’t possible to spend more time.

Administrators and psychologists who work with residents at these facilities tell families that it is important to find a way to make time for loved ones, as well as their other obligations.

Assisted Living: Tips To Make The Holidays Merrier

Talk to the staff.

Ask the facility staff whether bringing grandma or uncle Chester home for the day would cause disruption to the relative — or to the host family. Families should also consider whether the home can accommodate the visitor, particularly if they have a mobility aid.

Be aware that older people can get tired easily so limit your visits.

Do not expect them to stay for more than six hours. Also, they will eventually become too tired. You might also consider having someone to take them home at all times during their visit.

Send holiday reminders and decorate.

Decorating the room of a relative, whether they are staying at the facility or visiting, is a good idea. If certain items are prohibited, please check with the facility staff.

Decorations are beneficial for all residents, even those with advanced dementia. Dementia patients often remember things from their childhood. They might not be aware that it’s March 17, but they know that St. Patrick’s Day is a fun day, because everything is decorated. … They are aware that it is a holiday.

This is also true for favorite foods. For any dietary restrictions, please consult the nursing staff.

Other Tips To Make The Holidays Memorable

1. Make the most of technology. There are many ways to relive past holidays through slide shows and videos.
2. Families can bring large-screen tablets or laptops to facilities that lack technology. Include things which tie in to who they are like music. This is particularly helpful for those with dementia relatives.
3. If visiting the site is impossible, Wi-Fi-equipped facilities can host webcams so relatives can connect on vacation. There are many ways to use Skype, Facetime, or any other available technology.
4. There are many ways to celebrate there: All ages are welcome. Facilities often host holiday parties and invite their families to join them. Bring the children and attend.
5. Children are welcomed in assisted living communities. The elderly respond very well to children, even if they’re not theirs. Residents are brought to life by children.
6. Bring gifts. Presents can be great. What are we doing at Christmas? We open presents. The patient can still enjoy this activity.

It is the experience that counts, and not the length of the visit to the assisted living facility in Myrtle Beach. Visits are always helpful, no matter the season.

Any kind of visit was good. You don’t need to believe that visits should last for more than three hours. Even a quick visit for five minutes can make a big difference.

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you are looking for a facility for your loved one.

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

COMPLETE CHECKLIST FOR MOVING YOUR PARENTS INTO ASSISTED LIVING

Now that Mom and Dad are ready to move into assisted living, the to-do list can seem daunting. You may find that your parents have a lot of stuff, even cherished possessions, they need to sell. The house may need urgent repairs before putting it up in the market. It is possible that your mom or dad feels ambivalent about the idea of moving into assisted living. They may be reluctant to give up their routines and start a new one. It’s perfectly normal.

We have seen all the mistakes in assisted living and Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest is here to help.

This is the Ultimate Assisted Living Checklist

1. Define Expectations

Every rower who competes will tell you that the ride is smoothest when everyone pulls in one direction. It is important to set expectations and make sure everyone is on the same page. This includes your parents, your helpers, and everyone who touches the move. The following steps can be used to define expectations:

Establish Deadlines

Each item on the assisted living checklist, from checking finances to shopping facilities to organizing the move, must have a deadline. Give yourself more time. Do not try to groom the entire cat in one week. Moves to assisted living that are successful were spread over several weeks or even months.

Assign Responsibilities

Consider which items will fall under your control, which tasks can be left to your parents, and which can be handled by your friends or family. Take into account time constraints, job availability, cognitive capacity, and the ability of the assignee to complete the task.

Select Tasks to Outsource

An organizer could help with many tasks. Some tasks might be too difficult for seniors to do. You might consider hiring out certain tasks, such as appraisals, movers and realtors.

2. Check Finances

Moving to assisted living facility can mean expenses and a change in the financial picture for your parents. This is the perfect time to check in with Mom or Dad about their financial situation. This will help you decide what next steps to take, such as which assisted living facility to choose or how much money you have for moving.

You should also be aware of the following:

House

Find out how much equity your parents have if they own the house. Find out the balance of any mortgages or equity lines of credit that you have. Calculate the property’s value.

Possessions

What is the most valuable thing your parents have? You might be interested in antiques, jewelry, art, silver, china, or comic books. Anything that may appeal to a niche buyer is worth considering.

Other Assets and Liabilities

Assets are any value that could put money in your parents’ pockets. These could include stock portfolios or real estate investments. Liabilities are any money that is taken from someone’s pocket. These include credit card balances, insurance premiums and car loans.

Income Streams

An “asset” refers to the investment or business value, while “income streams” describe how much your parents make from assets or other sources. This could include wages and pensions, investment dividends or income from rental properties, business income, annuities, judgements in their favor, Social Security, and other entitlements.

3. Check Their Possessions

Many seniors have to downsize to make the transition to smaller assisted living in Myrtle Beach. It can be difficult for parents to give up items that make them feel at home. They should take only the most treasured items with them. However, not all of it will fit. You can organize to help your parents assess the emotional investment they have made in their possessions.

Take inventory

You should make a list of all the things in your house. Not just where they are, but also where you can find them. If possible, take photos to record the descriptions and store them with the descriptions. These photos will help your parents make the right decision and also help family members decide what to keep.

Triage Belongings

You can rank your items by 1-3 or 1-10. 1 is “must take with you” and 10 is “definitely remove.”

Take Large Furnishings into Account

You will need to find out if your parents are allowed to bring furniture to their next home. Take note of the dimensions of your furniture.

4. Choose The Nearest Assisted Living Facility

It is just as important to help your parents choose their next home than it is to gracefully dispose of the old one. Here are some suggestions to help you get started.

Make sure you document the needs of your parents

You should ensure that the facility supports their ADLs, such as dressing, bathing, and mobility. A Memory Care community for those with dementia or Alzheimer’s may be necessary. You will need to find out if they have a specific doctor attached so that you can verify that the chosen senior community will allow them stay with that doctor.

Make a list of possible facilities

Google-search assisted living communities near you. You can perform an advanced search using multiple parameters such as distance, amenities and care levels.

Arrange Tours

After you have created a list, organize tours for your parents. If possible, meet with the community director, caregiving director and activities director. You can get floor plans that include measurements to help you determine which belongings will fit. You might consider an unannounced visit to the community without Mom or Dad, so you can see how it is when they aren’t expecting you.

5. Arrange for Disposal of Possessions

Clearing out the home of your parents’ decades-old nest could be the most difficult task. Give yourself enough time to complete the task.

Schedule an Estate Sale

A estate sale is a great way to raise money for your move and the initial expenses. It is similar to a big garage sale but with a lot more money. Everything is up for sale and the entire house becomes a massive second-hand auction. A professional appraisal is often recommended to avoid selling a million-dollar card of baseball for a quarter.

Arrange donations

Many charities offer volume donation pickup. It is a good idea to schedule a pickup as soon you know the date of your estate sale. To pick up any unsold items, the truck can be delivered immediately following the sale.

6. Home Sale

Selling your parents’ home if they have significant equity could help them set themselves up financially. Here are some steps to take. Get a real estate agent involved. Ask for referrals if you don’t already know any realtors.

The house might need extensive repairs to be worth top dollar. You can shop around for contractors or go to your real estate agent’s preferred vendor.

7. Start Packing The Least Used Rooms

You can get organized in the rooms that are least used first. These could include:

• Guest bedrooms
• Hosting guests must be allowed to move on.
• Dens and offices
• These functions can be combined into other rooms.
• Garage or shed

These items have not been touched in years and will be hard to find.

8. Attend the Evens At The Next Facility

After you have chosen the senior community and your parents are comfortable with the idea of moving, it’s time to start getting involved in the community. The assisted living community will feel more like home if they attend certain functions and activities.

Get in touch with the Director of Activities

Make a list of the activities that your parents are interested in and arrange for them to participate. Parents can begin to bond with their neighbors right away.

Get in touch with the Lead Caregiver

Set up a time to meet with your parents and caregivers so that they can fully understand the care plan. Also, it will help you establish trust with the providers.

9. Create A Moving Schedule

Planning ahead ensures a smooth move. Plan for the following:

Assemble Supplies

Take a look at boxes, totes and packing tape. Also, consider glass protectors, scratch-preventing blankets. Dolls, markets, trucks, and dollies.

Book Movers

Many moving companies reserve weeks or even months ahead of time, depending on the season. As soon as you know when your move day is, get on their calendar. If necessary, details can be changed later.

Arrange utility shutoffs

Your parents’ utility companies should be contacted ahead of time to arrange shutoffs of water, gas and electricity. So they don’t have to pay for utilities that they don’t use after the move.

Change your mailing address

Social Security will change your parents’ address.

10. Prepare A Moving-Day Bag

Your parents should be able to access everything they need when it comes time for you to move.

Get Suitcases and Essentials

It’s like you are taking your parents on vacation. Pack essential clothes, toiletries and appliances. You can have them start to live in their moving-day bag as soon as possible.

11. Unpack and Organize

Establish a familiar atmosphere in your new home for your parents when you move them. You will make them feel more at home if they have photos, books, and furniture from their previous home. You can help them unpack and organize the new place to make it more comfortable.

12. Assess The New Home

It is important that you take the time to discuss the layout and set-up of your parents’ new house with them. They should feel as comfortable as possible. Ask them where everything is located and if they have any other items from their old home they would like to bring with them. Take out any items that are not suitable for the new home.

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you’re looking for the best facility for your loved ones.

Like our Facebook page for more great info about assisted living.

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

WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF FAMILY INVOLVEMENT IN CARING FOR RESIDENTS IN ASSISTED LIVING?

Assisted living facilities can handle the emotional and physical needs of residents. However, research has shown that families are crucial to improving the quality of resident care.

Assisted Living Guide

It does matter how important the interactions between residents and staff are, and it is vital to build strong relationships between families and long-term residents in an assisted living facility.

The Nursing Home Reform Act of 1987 provides that family members can be involved in the care of their loved ones when they are admitted to long-term care facilities. This is unless the resident denies it. This act was created to ensure residents within the assisted living community receive the best care possible in their facilities. However, it also highlights the emotional importance of family involvement.

Long-term care facilities have many ways to build this relationship. Staff members can benefit from frequent family visits, which is crucial for the success of residents. However, research has shown that staff can also benefit.

“Family involvement is critical for improving the quality care for residents.”

Family involvement and dementia care. A 2007 study concluded that families and long-term caregivers are crucial to the quality of dementia care.

The study included 388 relatives and 384 nurse workers from 20 assisted living communities. Researchers studied the effects on communication between these two groups in long term dementia care facilities. Participation in the program resulted in positive outcomes for all participants, including staff reporting lower burnout, less conflict between families and staff, and better symptoms of depression.

The study found that residents had fewer negative behaviors during this period. While family involvement can improve the quality of care, it may also increase guilt. We have already mentioned that family visits and general involvement are crucial for improving the quality and well-being for the residents and staff who work with them.

A research team observed and analysed the impact of “Families Matter” in Long-Term Care. Through workshops, family members and staff can learn how to make their loved ones’ lives easier.

“Familial involvement can still be extremely beneficial.”

This program had positive effects on worker and family relationships, staff burnout rates, and a better quality of life for residents. Although this is a great outcome, researchers found that families felt more “guilt and conflict” after becoming more aware of how they can impact the lives of their loved one.

Researchers speculated that guilt may be a result of family members wondering if there is more they can do for those they love who are staying in assisted living in Myrtle Beach.

The researchers found that the program increased the likelihood of family and staff conflicts. This could be due to the fact that family members may feel more in control of their loved ones’ care quality, which can lead to tension.

The researchers found that family involvement was still very beneficial, despite these limitations.

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you’re looking for the best assisted living facility for your loved ones.

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