Top 6 Steps to Being a Great Roommate in Assisted Living

It can be challenging for seniors to transition to assisted living. Here in Texas, one of the biggest challenges for new memory care assisted living residents are living alongside roommates in a way they haven’t had to for the first time in years. Below are the top 6 steps to take to help your loved one be comfortable, while still being a good roommate.

1.       Open communication

Talking about any problems or concerns, respectfully and directly can alleviate a lot of tension. Staff at memory care communities can also help facilitate these conversations.

2.       Determine how much privacy is needed for comfort

Memory care communities have different living options available for residents from sharing a room or having their own room. Some communities have options for different sized spaces as well. Keeping the budget in mind, having a conversation with your loved one about their desired level of privacy is important. If a roommate is in the picture, find someone compatible with your loved one’s personality and lifestyle.

3.       Dress up

At least at first, dressing nicely can help make a good first impression. Accessories or jewelry can also help open up a conversation when meeting the other residents. An interesting t-shirt or Fitbit, something that visually expresses a story can open up opportunities for your loved one bond and share some of their stories.

4.       Welcome other new residents

After your loved one moves, they settle in and become part of the community. Making an effort to welcome newer community members and being thoughtful of residents that may be struggling with different challenges will help knit the community together.

5.       Participation in the community

Memory care communities offer a lot of different activities and events. Encourage your loved one to sign up activities that interest them. If they don’t find what they like, they or you could make a recommendation to the staff.

6.       Good first impressions

Even if your loved one is struggling with the move to a memory care facility, making a good first impression on the community by greeting other residents and staff with a smile can go a long way towards building strong relationships and connecting with the community. First impressions matter, so encourage your loved one to make a good one.

Respite Care and Memory Loss

Caring for a loved one living with Alzheimer’s or dementia can be both rewarding and challenging. Learning how to meet your loved one’s changing needs can be overwhelming. As a caregiver, you still need time for yourself and other life events. Luckily, many memory care communities offer respite care.

What is respite care?

Respite care is the term used to describe short-term support for those living with memory loss. Respite is offered in a group setting at many memory care communities. If you or your loved one’s caregiver is needing a bit of extra support, or if your loved one simply needs some added daily activities, then this is the perfect choice. Respite can be anywhere from a day visit up to a few weeks, depending on the caregiver’s needs and the availability at your memory care community of choice. Many communities can also be helpful in unplanned scenarios, in case of an emergency.

When could respite care be necessary?

If a caregiver has family commitments, a holiday or needs to go away for work, respite care can be a helpful solution to ensure care continues for the individual living with dementia. Full-time caregivers need breaks to refuel and take care of themselves in order to provide the best care to their loved one. 

Loved ones suffering from memory loss also need stimulating activities and opportunities for socializing: a day respite can be a great option to add some variety and different levels of support and activity to your loved one’s week.

Respite can also be a great option if your loved one has been through a hospital stay, illness or operation and needs short-term extra support.

If your loved one is transitioning into a memory care residence, taking advantage of respite opportunities can be an excellent way to ease the transition. Short times spent in the community can help alleviate your loved one’s anxiety and allow them to become familiar with their environment, acting as a trial run before committing to a more permanent community in the future.

Scared of Assisted Living? Put Your Fears to Rest!

There is an unavoidable stigma on the concept of assisted living, likening it to the negative stereotype of nursing homes of generations past, as opposed to vibrant communities of today. In addition, there is a misconception that assisted living of any form is not affordable, much less if some form of dementia assisted living is needed. However, these fears can be put to rest as   there is plenty to appreciate about memory care assisted living. Here are just a few of the benefits.

Resident’s Independence Is Top Priority

At any assisted living facility, the goal of the staff is to give the residents as much freedom as possible, depending on the level of assistance needed. Of course, for those requiring specialization, like dementia assisted living facilities, caregivers are always on hand. However, caregivers don’t like to be intrusive. They want to ensure residents are able to maintain their independence in as safe an environment as possible.

“Assisted” Does Not Mean “Inactive”

Utilizing Alzheimer’s assisted living facilities and living a full and active life are not mutually exclusive activities in the slightest. Top-notch facilities bring the activity to the residents in an effort to find something fun for every resident, no matter the level of care needed. Activities at The Cottages Senior Living, with four locations in Texas include physical activity that is appropriate for those living with memory impairment and dementia, as well as stimulating activities and relaxation.  The Cottages have Alzheimer’s Certified Activity Directors on staff and all programs are customized for each resident. 

Getting the Most for Your Money

The belief is that a good memory care facility in Texas. Many memory care residences in Texas, such as The Cottages offer all-inclusive pricing which means there is no level of care charges

or hidden fees; all services and care is included in the base price.

·         Highly qualified 24-hour staffing

·         Licensed nurses and certified medication aides

·         Certified Alzheimer’s-trained activity director

·         Activity programs designed for memory impairment

·         Personalized care for all stages of Alzheimer’s

·         Onsite gourmet chef serving three nutritious meals daily and snacks

·         Menu evaluation from registered dietician

·         Utilities (including cable)

·         Housekeeping

·         Laundry

·         Transportation

When you keep these benefits in mind, it’s easy to see the positive impact that assisted living facilities for those living with memory disorders can have on both the resident and the lives of their families.

How Garden Space Can Impact Those with Dementia and Alzheimer’s

Researchers agree that spending time outdoors in green spaces is good for everyone, especially those living with Alzheimer’s, dementia and other memory disorders. Access to nature has a soothing effect on these individuals, and it’s been observed that people living with memory disorders tend to exhibit less agitation and distress when they are able to regularly spend time outside.

Due to the unique needs of those suffering from memory disorders, memory care communities have developed spaces known as dementia-friendly gardens to improve overall care. These gardens are designed to be accessible and simple in layout to prevent any users from getting lost or injured.

There are a few criteria to consider when planning a dementia-friendly garden that will ensure the space delivers the intended positive sensory impact.

Layout and accessibility

Dementia-friendly gardens are easily accessible from indoor spaces. They should have clear entrances and pathways that are highly visible. All surfaces should level to welcome those with reduced mobility.

Pathway shapes and design

Ideally, all pathways should be circular and lead back to where they began. Avoiding dead ends and sudden directional changes will help residents keep their bearings. Using flat, neutral-colored tiles without any complex patterns is ideal to limit visual confusion and encourage clear navigation.

Seating

Include plenty of seating areas for those with mobility issues. Solid benches and wheelchair space out of the sun and wind should be placed frequently along the path. A gazebo or covered patio halfway along the path will provide added comfort and shelter from any unexpected weather.

Garden plants

Being thoughtful of the plants included in the garden will encourage a full sensory experience. Adding in plants like mint, rosemary, lavender, roses, edible berries or jasmine provides users with smell, touch and taste experiences that may evoke happy memories. Be sure to avoid any poisonous plants, because those suffering from memory disorders may not be aware of what’s safe and edible and what isn’t.

Following these simple guidelines will ensure and memory care community can design welcoming and safe places for their residents to spend time outside.

Outstanding Provider of Assisted Living of Alzheimer’s and Memory Disorders

When the time comes to make the difficult decision to seek residential help for your loved one living with dementia, finding the right facility can be overwhelming. It’s important to find a place that can provide outstanding care for your loved one, yet one that still feels like home.

Why Should You Consider The Cottages?

The Cottages have been operating in Texas since 1997 and have four memory care facilities that are all are family owned and operated by The Cottages Senior Living. Here are just a few of the reasons our state-of-the-art certified assisted living residences are a top choice for your loved one living with Alzheimer’s or another memory disorder.

1. Family Support and Education

A focus on providing care for the entire family is possibly the most compelling reason The Cottages are a premier Alzheimer’s assisted living location. Memory care is our specialty. Our staff members understand just how difficult memory loss can be on any family, and recognize our role is not just in caring for our residents, but for the entire family.

The Cottages offers resources and support including monthly support group meetings, allowing families to meet others who are experiencing the same thoughts and emotions. Educational meetings and grief counseling are offered as well, but most importantly, we hope you consider us an extension of their own family in caring for your loved one living with a memory disorder.

 2. Feels Like Home

What better gift to give your loved one than the gift of peace and tranquility? With careful attention to detail in interior design, layout and even lighting, The Cottages memory care facilities in Austin and other Texas locations are best-in-class when it comes to our beautiful formal dining rooms, outdoor dining options, gardens and sun rooms.

The Cottages strives to give residents a sense of family. Each resident has their own personal space tailored to meet his or her own physical, mental and emotional needs while family-style meals from our onside gourmet chef and activities encourage socialization between residents.

3.  Activities for All

Life is fun at The Cottages! Residents stay busy with a wide variety of activity programs designed for memory impairment.  What’s even better is that family members of The Cottages residents are welcome to join in at any time.

The Cottages are the premier assisted living facility in Austin and around Texas, with locations in Amarillo, Frisco and League City. We provide the lifestyle that residents desire. Families are always welcomed to be involved and each facility just feels like home. Contact The Cottages today to learn more about assisted living for loved ones living with dementia or other memory disorders.

Caring for Your Loved One

Taking care of your loved one can be a big job to take on alone. Finding a memory care home in Dallas could be a great alternative. The best way to take care of the senior in your life is to find a memory care residence that has a team of professionals that offer the care they need. Here are a few tips on how to make the transition.

Family Teamwork

By having the right approach and proper communication, you can find the right memory assisted living facility for your family member.

·         The Advocate: Even though you are wanting to divide the workload, someone still needs to be the primary spokesperson. Having one point of contact that is in charge of managing the details will help everything go smooth.

·         Regular Communication: The more people in your family that are involved with caring for your loved one, the more crucial consistent communication is. Keeping the family apprised of updates and what is going on is important.

·         Dividing Responsibilities: Moving into a dementia assisted living home is a change for your loved one and your family. Giving everyone in the family an idea of what kind of things need to be taken care of will help the process go smoothly.

The Benefits

The Cottages, a memory care facility with locations in Texas has assembled a team of caregivers that are specially trained to provide for those living with memory loss.Putting your loved one in their care will give you and your family the peace of mind knowing that they handle all aspects of daily and will become a part of The Cottages family.

There is no better way to help your loved one than to find a memory care team that will meet their physical, mental and emotional needs. 

Bathroom Safety Checklist for Older Adults

Among older adults, falls are a leading cause of injuries, both fatal and non-fatal. Experts report that the bathroom is the most dangerous place for accidents: seniors experience more falls there than in any other room of the home.

In an effort to keep all seniors safe in their living spaces, The Cottages, a memory care facility with locations throughout Texas offer a few tips to help you conduct a bathroom safety audit of a family member’s home and identify any potential hazards.

·       Make sure the space outside the bathroom is well lit with nightlights and that the lights in the bathroom are easy to get to in the dark.

·       Pocket doors and doors that open outward make it easier to reach your loved one in an emergency.

·       A step-free shower lowers fall risk immensely. If that’s not possible, a tub transfer bench can be a great tool and gives your senior a place to sit if they are unstable on their feet.

·       Check the shower door: safety glass or plastic are the safest choices for materials in case your senior loved one falls against it.

·       Add non-skid mats in the shower to reduce the chances they will slip. Make sure to prevent slippery floors as well.

·       Check the doorknobs, shower handles, and faucets. Are they easy to operate with arthritis or decreased hand strength?

·       An adjustable shower head attachment can help a senior shower from a seated position and can prevent them from having to twist or stretch.

·       If your family member has difficulty getting up and down a raised toilet seat with side grab bars is inexpensive and can make things much more comfortable and safer.

·       Make sure there are strategically placed grab bars in the bathroom where they are needed. In the shower and near the toilet are useful to aid in balance.

Lastly, if your family member has challenges with balance or dizziness get them an emergency alert pendant so they can quickly call for help in case of a fall.

Taking Care of the Caregiver

Many family caregivers for loved ones with Alzheimer’s or dementia report experiencing their own health declining as additional responsibilities add up. Although some of these suggestions may not apply to everyone, anything that you can do, no matter how big or small can help. Below are tips for caregivers that could help.

5 Tips Family Caregivers Should Consider

1.       Use Respite Services

There are many options for short-term memory care respite services in the community. Many memory care facilities allow older adults to be guests in their communities for a few days up to a few weeks and benefit from the same services as long-term residents. This can be great for caregivers to get a break.

2.       Have friends come to your home to visit.

Ask your friends if they wouldn’t mind coming to you for a visit. For many caregivers, leaving the house is not an option. Having your friends visit can you give you a break from the day to day chores without you having to leave your loved one unattended.

3.       Make Healthy Food Choices

Busy days can leave caregivers eating on the run. Consider having groceries delivered through Instacart or Blue Apron. There are many food service companies you can access on-line that will deliver good healthy meals to your door.

4.       Set up Emergency Help with Friends

Have someone you can count on to come over when you are in a jam.  There is always going to be a time where you just need to walk away and have a break.  Find a family member or close friend that you can call on a moment's notice to come over and help.

5.       Set a Schedule

Try scheduling meals and breaks for yourself. This can help both you and your loved one stay consistent and also allow you some time to recharge when able.

It is not easy to be a caregiver, especially when your loved one requires round the clock care. When the task becomes more than you can handle, it may be time to find a memory care residence that will care of your loved one in a warm and compassionate environment that makes them feel at home.

Protect the Health of Seniors with Dementia by Caring for the Caregiver

There is an abundance of evidence that proves family caregivers need to take care of their own health. Caregivers tend to experience a wide range of health concerns that could lead to the end of their caregiving days. With the support of a memory care home in Dallas and the following four tips, you can take the appropriate steps to protect your health.

Mental Health and the Caregiver

Researchers at The University of California’s Memory and Aging Center have discovered that when a caregiver’s health declines, it increases the risk of earlier mortality in patients with a neurodegenerative disorder. Caregivers are actually four times more prone to suffer from depression and three times more apt to seek medical attention for anxiety.

4 Tips to Protect Your Mental Health

1. Limitations: Accept the idea you will need to ask for help and that it is okay to take breaks. Respite care is a wonderful option to help caregivers protect their mental health. Contact a dementia assisted living facility and see what they can offer. 
2. Be Realistic: Take moments to think about the priorities in your own life. If an immaculate home is a priority to you, then caregiving in your home may not be a realistic option. You may want to consider dementia assisted living facilities for your loved one’s care and that is okay! 
3. Local Resources: Explore senior care resources in your area before you need them. There are dementia assisted living centers that will work with you and help lessen your burdens. Specific agencies can help you with getting a ramp built or special modifications installed. Support can be found by just a little exploration and a few questions. 
4. Prioritize a healthy lifestyle: Set goals monthly to commit yourself to a healthy lifestyle. Balanced diets, sleep, and exercise are vital. 

Your mental health should not be looked over. Ask for help from a memory care home in Dallas. 

How to Handle the Cost of Life Transitions in Senior Care

Moving elderly parents or other relatives from home to a care facility can be challenging in all sort of ways - emotionally, logistically, and financially.  Sometimes the cost issues don’t come up early enough in the discussions.  It’s important that in addition to figuring out the best answer for care, you are prepared for the financial impact.

There are two kinds of expenses to consider.  First, the transitional costs of moving from home to a care facility (whether Alzheimer assisted living, or a memory care facility).  Second, the ongoing expenses of care.  Note that these may be different for a residential facility versus adult day care or in-home visitation programs.

The transitional expenses can be nominal, depending on circumstances.  Typically these include just the actual costs of a physical move and any fees for selling a home.  You may find that none of these are a burden.  In some cases, if the house to be sold needs repairs, cleaning, or staging, the transaction expenses can be significant.  Make sure you discuss with a realtor and also have an attorney review any contracts.  If necessary, have an accountant, or tax professional provide you with advice about the impact to you or your parent/relative’s tax liability.

The cost of a care facility can range anywhere from $2,500 to $8,500 a month, depending on where it is located, the level of care required, and the amenities provided.  There is usually a facility that will fit your needs and budget, but it may not be nearby.  As you develop your plan, be aware of the financial resources available to you.  These include your parent/relative’s savings, any insurance or public assistance benefits they may qualify for, and your own personal funds.

Most facilities have a planning resource professional who can help you navigate this transition.  Be deliberate about reviewing the options, even if you find yourself under time pressure.  You want to make sure you make the best decision possible.

Discovering Long-Term Care for a Person with Alzheimer's

There may come a time when you can no longer care for your loved one with Alzheimer’s. When you are no longer able to meet all their needs at home, you may want to look at an assisted living facility for those with memory disorders. Alzheimer’s assisted living facilities in Texas are here to help.

Alzheimer assisted living facilities are a place where your loved one can obtain the care they need at all hours, night or day. The decision to place your loved one in an Alzheimer’s assisted living facility may make you feel guilty butknowing that your loved one will be in a safe environmentand cared forcangive you peace of mind.

The following options can help you get started.

Types of Residential Care for Alzheimer’s Assisted Living in Texas

• Continuing care retirement communities — a retirement community consists of a room, apartment, or home where people with Alzheimer’s can live and get care. Some retirement communities are for people who can care for themselves, while others are for people who need twenty-four hour care.

• Assisted living facilities — a facility with apartments or rooms for people who may need help with daily tasks. Alzheimer’s assisted living facilities have staff who care for residents with Alzheimer’s and those with other memory disorders specifically. They offer 24 hour care, meals and activities in a home-like environment all based around memory care.

• Group homes — a home where more than one person, who can't care for themselves, live. There are two or more staff members who live there as well. One caregiver is on site at all times. Take note that these homes may not be regulated and inspected like Alzheimer’s assisted living facilities. They may, however, still provide exceptional care.

• Nursing homes — these are facilitiesfor people who can no longer care for themselves. One may even be able to find homes with care units specifically for those with Alzheimer's. They are usually located separate from other residents. Nursing home settings provide medical care onsite.