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/

MAKING TRANSITION TO ASSISTED LIVING EASIER

It can be hard to make the decision to move a loved one into an assisted living facility. This is often a difficult and emotional process. How can you ensure that your loved one’s transition is smooth? Here are some things to consider. This blog post will give you tips to make your loved one’s transition to assisted living easier.

1. Select the right assisted living community

It is crucial that your loved one transitions smoothly into assisted living by choosing the right community. This involves finding the right community for your loved one. You want to ensure that your loved one is happy.

Some things to remember when visiting assisted living communities:

• The community’s location
• The community’s size
• Services and amenities offered
• Care options
• The community’s cost

2. Find out the costs associated with assisted living

Researching the cost of assisted living in Myrtle Beach is another important step in the transition. This will allow you to plan for the move as well as ensure that you have enough money. Costs for assisted living can vary depending upon a variety of factors such as the location, the size, and the type of care needed.

3. Take a tour of the community

After you have made the decision to choose the best assisted living community for you, it is time to arrange a tour. You and your loved one will have the opportunity to tour the community and meet the staff. This is a great opportunity to ask questions about the community and the transition process. A tour of an assisted living community is a great way to get a feel and decide if it’s right for you. You can also ask questions about the transition and what to expect.

4. Make sure to pack the essentials

You should only pack the essentials, such as clothes, toiletries, medications, and other personal items. Personal items such as photos and sentimental objects may be useful. Don’t pack too many. Assistive living communities often provide furniture and other essential items. To find out what furniture is available and what items they recommend, it is a good idea to speak with the community.

5. Set Up Their New Living Space

After your loved one has moved into assisted living, it is time to put their living space in order. You will need to pack their belongings and arrange furniture. To make the space feel homier, you may want to decorate it. The staff at an assisted living facility can usually assist you if your loved one requires assistance.

It can make your loved one feel more comfortable in their new home by making sure it is inviting and comfortable. This is a great opportunity to personalize the space and make it feel more like your own.

6. Give your loved one time to experience an emotional transition

It is important that your loved one has the opportunity to feel an emotional transition. You may feel sadness, anger, or anxiety when your loved one leaves their home. It is important to be understanding and patient during this time. It may take some time for your loved one to adjust to the new lifestyle. Let them express their feelings and discuss their feelings.

Find the right assisted living facility for your loved one

Moving into assisted living can be difficult for your loved one. It doesn’t have to be difficult if you prepare properly. These tips will help you make the transition as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest aims to give seniors the best experience in assisted living. Contact us today to book a visit!

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

HOW TO MAKE YOUR LOVED ONES IN ASSISTED LIVING FEEL SPECIAL DURING THE HOLIDAYS

Holidays are a time for family and friends to enjoy. However, when someone is in assisted living, it can be difficult to make the holidays more meaningful.

Plan ahead! For those living in assisted living communities, holidays can be stressful. Having a plan will help you be more organized and decrease anxiety. You will be able to plan your visit according to the facility’s visiting guidelines. Now it’s time for creativity and making the holidays memorable.

Holidays For Loved Ones In Assisted Living

Decorate their Room

Holidays are about decorating with festive colors and ornaments. You can bring flowers in, and decorate the room with holiday cards or string lights. Even something as simple as decorating the windowsill of your loved one’s home can bring joy and warmth to their holiday season.

Enjoy Holiday Treats

Treats are essential for any holiday. Make something unique for your loved one by baking a cookie from their favorite recipe or buying chocolates at their local shop. Holidays are about enjoying the small moments and eating delicious treats.

Organize a holiday party

If you are allowed to invite family members, host a small holiday party in their bedroom. Invite family and friends to exchange gifts, share stories, and sing carols. Holidays are about spending time with those we love the most.

Give your home a sense of belonging

For those who live far from their home, holidays can be difficult. To help you feel at home, bring photos of your family along with a piece from your home. No matter where you are, holidays are about creating memories.

Enjoy Holiday Music

Holiday music can set the mood better than any other music. You can play a CD with your loved one’s favorite carols, or you can bring in a radio to tune into the local station. Spending quality time with loved ones and listening to music that brings us joy is the essence of the holiday season.

Make a video with your friends and family

Sometimes your loved one might not be able to have many visitors in the senior living facility. To share your love, make a video with family and friends. Holidays are about showing appreciation for each other, even when we don’t live in the same place.

Check to see if the Assisted Living Facility is hosting holiday events

To find out what holiday events are being held at your facility, contact them. Holidays are about community and many assisted living facilities in Myrtle Beach to offer activities for residents. These events are a great way to bring your loved ones along and get involved with the community.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest is committed to making holidays memorable for residents and their loved ones. You can be sure that your loved ones will be taken care of with our wonderful recreation spaces, tasty meals, and engaging activities.

Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest believes holidays bring joy to the people we love most. For more information on our holiday activities, contact us today!

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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 FINDING A MEMORY CARE FACILITY

It can be difficult to choose the right memory care community for your loved one. There are many factors that need to be considered. We created a memory checklist to ensure that your loved one is happy, safe, and well taken care of.

Finding a Memory Care Facility

1. Know your loved ones’ priorities and needs

Finding the right memory care facility for your loved one starts with prioritizing their needs.

Do you think your parent needs assistance with daily activities (ADLs), such as dressing, bathing, and eating? It’s crucial to know how the staff at memory care will help your loved one throughout the day and night if they have a memory impairment.

These are the questions you should ask yourself:

• Do you notice any aggression in your loved one?
• Do my family members wander off, get lost, or look for exits often?
• Do you have concerns about mobility? Is it possible for my loved one to walk on their own or does he or she need a walker/wheelchair?
• Do I need 24-hour supervision for my loved one?
• Do my parents need assistance using the toilet?
• Do my relatives require ongoing medical attention, such as diabetes management or dialysis?

A memory care community might not be right for your loved one if they have severe health issues that require 24-hour supervised nursing care. According to the National Institute on Aging, a nursing home might be better suited to meet their needs.

Memory questions can be asked if your loved one requires skilled nursing or long-term support.

Are they more likely to need continuous medical care than shorter, weekly or daily visits?

• Do they usually stay in bed and are unable to move?
• Do they need a feeding tube or assistance to eat?

2. Check the amenities

Memory care communities provide a wide range of amenities. These include meals that can be tailored to specific diets, care coordination, and concierge services. To determine the most important features, take into account your loved one’s interests and needs when creating a memory care checklist.

Ask staff members or tour guides:

• What are the different types of accommodation available? There are many living arrangements, from shared apartments to memory care cottages.
• What are the daily meals and snacks?
• What are the meals like? Is it possible to escort your loved one to the meal if they need help?
• Are there any fitness and wellness programs?

3. What memory-enhancing and enrichment activities are available?

Ask staff members if they are familiar with caring for people with dementia.

One way to find out if a community has a current understanding of dementia care is to see how staff deal with difficult behaviors such as anger, resisting care, and aggression.

Ask caregivers how they can help someone with dementia who is experiencing distress. Also, ask how the community can prevent dementia behavior from happening.

Look at how long they have been there and evaluate whether they are willing to learn more about your loved one. Look for caregivers who treat your loved one like a person and not as a disease. You want someone who will help your loved one thrive, not survive.

Finding out the extent to which staff members know their residents is one of the easiest ways to learn more about their care and involvement. Ask the community how they use residents’ histories to better communicate with individuals and provide care.

These questions are used to evaluate staff interaction:

• What is the difference between staff at dementia care and those who live in assisted living?
• What dementia technique does the staff use?
• Are residents assigned to the same staff member every day?
• How can staff care for residents who display disruptive behavior or are physically aggressive?

Each state has its own requirements regarding training for memory care staff. Ask your community about the requirements for certification or training, as well as whether nurses and aides are provided with ongoing training. All staff members, including housekeepers and cooks, are required to receive training in dementia care.

These questions will help you find the right memory care facility for you.

• Do you have accreditation for your facility?
• Do any of your staff have certifications as dementia care managers (CDCMs).
• How often do employees receive training?

4. Find a memory care facility that places safety first

Families seeking dementia care are concerned about safety. Memory care communities often include a range of safety features and technology, including motion-sensor technology in apartments and secured windows and doors with keypads. Memory care protocols and safety measures are particularly important in order to prevent wandering, which can be dangerous for people with dementia or Alzheimer’s.

The following are the top safety features for memory care communities:

• 24 hour supervision
• Emergency alert systems
• Keypad entry
• Alarms at emergency exits
• For safe wandering, there are interior courtyards

5. Are the grounds and buildings secure?

Do you have emergency alert systems, enclosed courtyards, and safety locks for outdoor fences?

• Are the hallways color-coded so residents can navigate the facility easily?
• Are nurses on duty 24 hours a day? What are the hours of nurses if not?
• Is there a physician who can visit you? Is it easy to get medical help?
• What are the available medical services?
• What is the staff-to-resident ratio during the daytime? What about at night?

6. Understand memory plans

Memory care facilities often offer person-centered dementia care, which is based on the residents’ past experiences and abilities. The staff takes the time to build a relationship with senior citizens and their families, in addition to a memory care assessment. The care team creates a customized dementia care plan for each resident that addresses their unique needs and supports their health and well-being.

7. What therapies and activities do they offer?

Individualized therapies and treatments can help people with dementia or other health conditions improve their quality of life and slow down cognitive decline.

Ask about memory-enhancing therapies in the area and how they could help you or your loved one.

Ask if there are any therapies offered by the memory care facility.

Art therapy can stimulate the brain, improve communication and increase self-expression.

Music therapy can improve mood, increase overall well-being, and even generate memory retrieval.

Aromatherapy uses relaxing scents such as lavender to reduce anxiety and agitation while encouraging better sleep. Or it uses energizing scents such as citrus to stimulate activity.

Occupational therapy can be used to help those with dementia maintain their life skills, from dressing and eating alone to dressing.

8. Check the building layout for assistive design components

Memory care facilities are more homelike than other senior living options. Memory care has unique layouts, which include floor plans that are easy to navigate and other elements that help residents avoid wandering. Ask about the design and construction elements of a memory care facility when you visit it.

These are some additional features to look for when looking for a memory care facility:

Mobility assistance. Are residents able to use the building safely and comfortably in a wheelchair? Many communities offer sit-to-stand lifts and elevators as well as zero-threshold showers and other assistive features.

Prevention of falls. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, falls are the most common cause of fatal and non-fatal injury in older adults. To ensure stability, choose wider doors with handrails. Hard floors are important for seniors to maintain balance.

Therapy gardens. Memory care communities often have green spaces and healing gardens. According to the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, such spaces can reduce isolation, aggression, depression, and agitation.

How to find the right memory care facility for you

When choosing a memory care community, the cost is an important consideration. The cost of memory care depends on many factors, such as the location, amenities, and level of care. It is important to know what monthly fees include and what happens if your loved ones’ needs change.

These are the questions to ask when you’re assessing the cost of a memory care facility in Myrtle Beach.

• What is the monthly fee structure? How is the cost structure determined? Are services offered a la carte or at a flat rate?
• How is the memory care assessment performed prior to admission?
• What are the monthly fees? What services aren’t included in the monthly fee?
• Is there an additional fee, such as an entry or deposit?
• Are prices increasing annually? Is there a maximum price increase?
• Are there any specials or incentives for move-in?

Know the last questions you should ask a memory care facility and trust your instincts

It doesn’t matter how much information is gathered, it’s always a good idea for you to trust your instincts.

Ask yourself these questions after touring a memory care facility:

• Does your staff seem knowledgeable and caring?
• Are residents happy?
• Is the community safe?
• Do you resonate with their philosophy of care?
• If your loved one lived in this home, would you feel at ease and comfortable?

It doesn’t have to be difficult to find a memory care facility. Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now for more information.

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/

SUPPORT IDEAS FOR SENIORS IN ASSISTED LIVING DURING THE HOLIDAYS

For many seniors, the holidays can be lonely. Although assisted living facilities do their best to maintain the holiday spirit, they are not as enjoyable as spending time with loved ones at home. It is not always possible to bring your loved ones home for the holidays.

This is especially true if they are in skilled nursing facilities. You will need to find other ways to make the holiday enjoyable and stress-free. Although these ideas might not be the best solution, they can help alleviate the holiday stress and remind seniors that you are still thinking of them.

Spending The Holidays In Assisted Living

Keep it Positive

Holidays can be depressing for seniors, and many people find it difficult to enjoy them. It can serve as a reminder of who isn’t there anymore to celebrate and how they cannot attend the gatherings. Keep things positive by only sharing happy memories and not too much about holiday plans. Remind them that they are an important part of your family and life. Be grateful for any gifts they give you.

Visit

Bring the Christmas party to your seniors if they are unable to attend in your home. Many nursing homes and assisted living facilities in Myrtle Beach do have rooms that can be used for events. You may find the room is already decorated for Christmas.

If it is not, bring a tree and decorations to make it feel like Christmas at your home. If your loved one is struggling to get through the holidays, a big family gathering may be what they need. This is the ideal opportunity to host a white elephant or secret Santa gift exchange. The joy of seeing so many people open presents will bring joy to your senior loved one.

Organize an Event

It doesn’t matter if you can’t travel and visit your loved one who is living in an assisted living home. There are still things you can do to brighten their holiday season. You can also work with your local school to arrange for a choir to visit your loved one’s home to sing carols, or a preschool to visit and do holiday crafts and arts.

Send a gift package

If arranging an event might not be possible, there are still ways to let seniors know that you care. To bring joy to the holidays, create a care package that includes all kinds of items. Any goodies will be appreciated, but homemade items can bring back happy memories of holiday baking. You don’t need to limit your holiday cheer to just food.

Help the staff

Supporting the staff who cares for your loved one during the holidays is a great way to help them. These caregivers work in partnership with the facility to make the holiday enjoyable and joyful for your loved one. While there may not be much you can do to help them, you can show your appreciation for the care they provide. You can send them a gift card, a care package, or a letter to let them know that you appreciate their efforts.

Make them feel loved

Seniors often reflect on what they don’t have and what they do have. Make them feel loved, and help them be present at the moment. You can organize a photo shoot in which all members of the family, not only the immediate family, but also extended family, and send the photos to your senior.

They will be happy to see the pictures, and if they are able to come to visit you, it will make their day even brighter. Send them a Christmas letter that highlights only the positive aspects of the year. You can include things such as graduations and births, but leave out the more serious parts.

Many people living in skilled nursing homes and assisted living communities are all too familiar with Christmas cards as reminders of loved ones who have died and other sad events. Add a personal touch to the end of your letter so that your loved one understands that you are thinking of them and not just sending a generic message like everyone else.

The True Meaning of Holidays

It is easy to get distracted by the holiday hustle and bustle as life moves in many directions. Seniors we care for have little time to reflect and think about the good and bad aspects of the holiday season. It is important to take a moment to think about them during this hectic time. They can benefit from our support and we can learn from them about the true meaning and significance of Christmas.

Contact Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you have questions or concerns about seniors living in assisted living facilities for the first time.

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

HOW TO CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH SENIORS IN ASSISTED LIVING

What to do when you are a senior living in assisted living? Even if you have to create new traditions, holidays in assisted living communities are still fun and festive.

If you bring the holiday spirit to older adults in assisted living in Myrtle Beach, they will feel included and loved. It’s essential to spend quality time with those you love.

We answer three top questions to help you celebrate in new ways.

Is it a good idea to bring a senior in assisted living to your home for a family event?

What can you do if an older adult doesn’t know what holidays are?

What holiday activities are good for assisted living?

1. Do I need to bring my mom home for the celebrations?

Visit the family home if your mom isn’t suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Talk to her before you make a decision. You may worry that she will become too tired or require help with personal care. Be sure to calmly explain how you can meet her needs. Remind her that her family is excited to see her, even if she feels shy or afraid she will be a burden at a party.

It may be difficult for your mom to leave her home if she has Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other cognitive impairments. You may find it easier to decide what is best for your mom if you have staff who are familiar with her. While some people with dementia enjoy celebrating, others find it challenging to adjust to changes in routines, loud noise, and crowds.

It might be a good idea to either have a mini-celebration or a regular visit to the assisted living facility if your mom gets agitated easily.

2. My Dad has dementia. He doesn’t seem aware that the holidays are coming this year. If I celebrate with him, will he even notice?

Even if dad isn’t interested in the world, he will still love spending time with his family. You might consider taking him out of the assisted living or memory care community. It all depends on his ability to go out. If he is not upset by the noise or activities, he will be happy to see you in the holiday spirit.

3. What activities can I do with an assisted living resident to celebrate the holidays?

A low-key approach to holidays for dementia sufferers may be better. Overstimulating holiday activities and busy decorations can cause confusion or agitation. Start with some simple decorations and smaller groups of people and then see how it goes. Depending on how visitors react, you can add or remove more decorations.

Seniors without cognitive impairment can participate in family celebrations by finding creative ways. Tell your senior adult when you will celebrate with them to assure them that they aren’t forgotten or abandoned.

These are some festive activities you can try:

• Decorate the room with them together. Get a mini tree and garland, draw a line on the wall in a tree shape, tape ornaments on it, decorate the room with decorative items, or hang a wreath at the door.
• Give them ideas and help them buy gifts for their family members, especially grandkids. Wrap them together
• Arrange a family trip and open presents together. It’s much more fun when everyone has gifts to open.
• Video chats can be set up for family members who live far from you so that they have virtual visitors
• You can accompany them to a holiday party or meal hosted at the assisted living community.
• You can sing along or listen to holiday songs with your partner.
• Enjoy a holiday movie
• You can make a holiday puzzle or a coloring page.

Call Reflections Assisted Living at Carolina Forest now if you need help in finding the best assisted living facility in Myrtle Beach.

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/

CARING FOR SENIORS WITH MEMORY CARE NEEDS DURING THE HOLIDAYS

It’s not unusual for seniors with memory care needs to find the holidays overwhelming. It can be difficult to navigate changes in routines and environments, loud social events, increased emphasis on food and drink, and other factors that may make it more challenging. It is important that loved ones with dementia feel included during holidays. Family is the true heart of holiday celebrations. Seniors often feel lonely or isolated at this time of the year. This is especially true if they are living alone or have lost their closest friends. what you can do is change your plans to best suit your loved ones who have Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Here are 7 ways to make the holidays more enjoyable for a senior with dementia:

Let them stick to a routine

Sudden changes can be upsetting or confusing for seniors needing memory care in Myrtle Beach. Simple considerations such as serving meals at the same time and in a familiar place can help.

Slowly make environmental changes

It’s a good idea for your loved one to spread decorations over several days if you are planning to decorate their living or bedroom. While decorations can bring joy and happiness to those with dementia, it is important to take the time to adjust to their needs. You may also slowly introduce the idea of assisted living to them and discuss their future.

Involve them in simple, but nostalgic activities

Ask them to help you bake holiday cookies and festive cupcakes. Or ask them to decorate a Christmas tree using ornaments passed down from one generation to another. It can be comforting and enjoyable for them to take part in familiar activities.

Prepare for family events

If you are taking your loved ones to a family event or party, make sure they have a place to go if they feel overwhelmed. Also, be clear with guests about your loved ones’ needs if necessary. Your loved one will be happier and more settled if you ask guests to lower the volume or refrain from using crackers or party poppers.

Reminisce on the good times

Many seniors with dementia enjoy the opportunity to relive old memories. It could be as simple as watching a favorite Christmas movie together or singing some of their favorite Christmas songs. This holiday season is a great time to reminisce on family memories. Why not create a digital album with old photos or videos that you can explore together?

Take time to consider their needs during mealtimes

Seniors with dementia often have difficulty eating. There are many reasons for these problems, such as decreased concentration, discomfort, depression, side effects from medication, and physical difficulties like chewing and swallowing. Avoid putting too much food on your loved one’s plate if they are having trouble eating. You may find that they are more comfortable with familiar foods than traditional festive dishes.

Ask them what they would like to do

Communicating with your loved ones is the best way for you to find out what works for you. Everyone is different and everyone has their own unique symptoms. Ask them to describe their ideal holiday celebration if they are able to communicate with you.

The holiday season can be a hectic time for families. It is difficult to think of ways to make your loved one feel included during this busy season. Although small modifications like those mentioned above may be helpful in certain cases. Always remember that every senior is unique. It is best to get professional help from experts at Reflections Assisted Living.

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

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

MEMORY CARE FOR ALZHEIMER’S & DEMENTIA: HOW DOES IT DIFFER FROM ASSISTED LIVING?

Life changes when your loved one is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Even people who think they are prepared for it, even those who think they are prepared, aren’t. You are now able to help your loved one plan for the future, advocate for them, and also involve them in finding a memory care facility. This is a huge task for anyone, and you may feel overwhelmed and exhausted without the right support.

There are many reliable and excellent services that can be found online to help keep your loved ones safe and happy.

It can be hard to find the right resources. This is especially true for dementia, which is a progressive condition that may require resources for memory care and assisted living. The immediate needs of your loved one may not be the same as what they will require in the future.

It is a smart decision to find a memory care community for your loved ones’ future needs. Some communities only offer memory care. However, there are many senior living communities that offer assisted living, too.

Memory care communities can offer comfort and reassurance to loved ones. They also provide personalized assistance that helps keep parents or their loved ones independent and healthy. You don’t have to wait until it’s too late or too early to start researching memory care options in your area. A transition to memory care in Myrtle Beach early can reduce the chance of transition trauma and make it more enjoyable for your loved ones.

Memory Care Communities offer many benefits

You might think that all senior living communities provide dementia assistance. While it is true that dementia-prone seniors may be represented in assisted living or independent living, the best choice is to ensure that the community you select specializes in memory care.

Memory care communities have been specially designed to provide the best environment, care, and interaction for people with dementia. Memory care is a great option for residents who require some assistance in daily activities. However, assisted living can be a good solution.

• A supportive environment that encourages their success
• Staff members with special training
• Daily activities designed for a rhythm in the day

Specialized Environment

Memory care communities are built to ensure residents’ safety while giving them easy access to the outdoors. Memory care communities offer residents the opportunity to walk in open areas, while also providing security so residents don’t wander off without supervision.

Memory care communities are not only safe, but they also feel at home. Residents often interact in the common living areas, such as the family-style dining area or activity room. The hallways are well-lit to reduce the chance of falling. However, they avoid using hospital-style lighting to ensure that everything is comfortable. Residents have easy access to outdoor spaces like courtyards and patios, just like at home.

Specially trained staff members

A community that provides memory care can also provide access to skilled caregivers.

Caregivers and team members have been specially trained in the dementia process. They know how to create meaningful interventions that build trust and provide meaningful moments.

Residents in memory care communities benefit from this extra training. They not only receive the best practices and techniques but also get a warm, caring staff that balances medical needs with a human connection. Family members are able to freely communicate with their caregivers and receive guidance and support about how to improve their next visit.

Engaging Activities

The most important thing is the last. The most important aspect of living in a memory community is engagement. The exceptional memory care communities have a rich calendar of activities and trips that aim to improve overall well-being, as well as have some well-deserved fun.

Elderly people with dementia living at home alone or with their caregivers are more likely to become isolated. Lack of social support can cause a host of health problems, including rapid cognitive decline and other issues. Memory care communities can be seen as hubs of activity. It is easy to connect with staff or fellow residents by simply walking down the hall or attending the next social gathering.

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

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