Leslie Newlife

5 Tips for Moving Seniors to a New Residence

moving

Seniors may reach a point in their lives where they are unable to live independently. It can be very trying and stressful for both the senior and family members at this point. There are many emotional and financial hardships that may go along with making decisions regarding senior living and care. Whether moving the elderly individual in with family, into a care home or an assisted living community, this decision is not easy and must not be taken lightly. There are many factors to be considered. Below are some tips on moving seniors to a new residence.

  • Consider the Wants and Needs of the Senior

While it is important to ensure the needs of the senior are met, it is also important to consider what he/she wants when faced with the possibility of a move. This individual will be leaving a home that he/she may have been in for most of his/her life. The new residence may be where he/she will spend the remainder of his/her life. It can be easy for family members to focus more on the cost and other aspects of the move, but the senior’s wants and needs also need to be given consideration.

  • Research Options

There are many options today for senior living. Before a move is finalized, research should be done to ensure the best option is chosen for the senior. Communities may differ from state to state, as well as financing available. Families should research all options with the senior to ensure the right decision is made. It is also important to know the laws. Depending on the funding source for care and housing, the senior may need to downsize their assets in order to receive funding. For example, if they receive assistance from Medicaid, their income needs to remain under a certain amount in order to be eligible. This means certain assets, such as their home and bank accounts, may put them over the poverty line and make them ineligible for assistance.

  • Plan Every Aspect of the Move

From the moment the decision is made for the senior to move to a new residence, planning should begin. Where will the senior be moving? What is the monthly cost? How will that cost be paid? Who will assist with the move? When will the move take place? How will the family ensure the move is as comfortable as possible for their loved one?

  • Enlist the Help of Others

Moving a senior relative can be a very stressful and emotional time. One person should not feel as if they have to handle it alone. They should seek assistance from other relatives, friends and/or neighbors.

  • Downsize
Downsizing may be one of the most difficult aspects of moving a senior to a new residence. This can be both time-consuming and emotional. What is important is to make sure that the senior is involved in this process so that he/she can still feel as if they are in control of the situation. Moving may be necessary for health and/or safety reasons, but the senior may be very resistant to leaving his/her home. This part of the process requires patience and caring. This is a stressful time in the senior’s life and he/she needs as much help and support as possible.

Face to Face: Social Media, Advertising, Marketing and Sales from the Inside Out

social-media

Do you want to get people passionate about your community and passionate about passing the word along that you are a community that is caring, compassionate and worthy of consideration for their loved ones?

Get face-to-face once in a while.

“How” you say? Try and get out in the community for a while and meet people. Hold or get involved in a community fair, or several small ones.

You’re likely to meet two kinds of individuals:

  • The ones who carry their day into media – the ones who post, blog, tweet and chatter on technology that is such an integral part of business these days.
  • Those folks who do not partake in the technological world of Facebook, Twitter and Internet research. Either they are the ones who need the care, or they are the caretaker whose days are filled with care-taking and worrying about where their loved one may end up.

Both worry about conditions, money, and all the other aspects of long term or short term care. They have questions and they don’t know who to talk to. They are unable to research facilities in their area to any real extent. And furthermore, they do not trust the internet. Try and have a sit-down conversation with them and you will hear that.

There’s still a generation out there who prefer face-to-face contact and to be able to talk about their impending future to the professionals who might be caring for them. Once they feel they would like to consider something, they will, in turn, take that information to their family members, the next generation(s) who will be instrumental in making decisions for them. And what’s the first thing this generation is doing? Checking out the institution on the internet. It serves the purpose of connecting to social media and it also helps give the loved one a feeling of autonomy when making decisions about their future.

By getting out in the community, you have accomplished two things. You have made contact with the generation that does not always do or trust social media; and you are giving a nod to the extending decision makers when it’s time to help mom get a place. You are also putting a face to a name. People like what is familiar to them.

Social media is very strong in the present and will continue to grow. But reaching out to the generation who is not comfortable or able to get involved in social media or by using the internet to research, you are building a bridge that will benefit all individuals involved in the process of choosing a home for their loved one.

Three Questions to Launch the Client Relationship

Moving a loved one

When you first hear that a prospective client is interested in moving to your senior living and care community, it’s very tempting to respond with urgency. After all, you know everything there is to know about your community, its amenities and advantages. It is important to resist this temptation and start slow, however, if you want satisfied customers. The most important role for you in the initial phase of the client relationship is as a listener. If you are successful in helping clients articulate to you what they want and need from their new housing arrangement, you are that much more likely to be able to provide it.

The decision to move out of one’s home and into a setting designed exclusively for seniors is never easy. It involves letting go of a well-established set of habits and routines and becoming open to new ways of living and meeting one’s needs. To make this decision wisely, you can use these questions to help clients determine what they are most looking for in this next chapter of their life.

  • What are They Looking to Leave Behind? 

Many people are tired of the financial cost and stress of maintaining their existing homes. Some are tired of having to drive long distances to entertainment, restaurants, health care or to visit family. Some are ready to stop feeling isolated or lonely. Others feel their homes are no longer safe places for them to live. If the pressures and burdens of the “old house” are no longer worth putting up with, senior living may offer alternatives that are easier, cheaper and more in line with their future plans.

  • What are They Looking Forward to? 

Some people are eager to simplify their lives and possessions in order to spend more energy doing the things they like best. Others want to invest in new social relationships and communities. Many seniors are deeply engaged in work and other pursuits and want to be closer to supportive resources for these endeavors. Others want to spend more time with family members. Senior living arrangements can facilitate all of these goals by supporting independent living without the burdens of home ownership.

  • Where are the Tender Places in This Decision? 

Deciding to leave home and start a new kind of life can feel upsetting. To avoid unnecessary anxiety about this decision, it is helpful to see your worries as useful signals about how to move forward. It is natural to grieve when we say goodbye to one part of our lives and enter another. Encourage clients to take time to process these emotions without rushing. This will help make their transition a time of optimism and excitement.

Once you understand what your prospective clients are looking for and what they are looking to avoid in their new arrangements, you have a much better chance of reaching a satisfactory agreement about their new housing options. Taking the extra time in the early stages of the client relationship to establish common ground will streamline the decision-making process and create the mutual trust that will spur them to commit to you and your community.

The Benefits of Being Part of a Senior Living Community

seniorliving

While the thought of entering a senior living community, or sending a loved one to live anywhere but their family home, can be a daunting one, it’s important to realize that there are so many choices to make – and a multitude of benefits, and positive experiences, to be found at each.

Choosing the Right Senior Living Community

There are numerous kinds of senior living communities and care facilities available, and all of them offer something different in terms of the services available; independent living communities, for example, enable residents to live comfortably without any obvious intervention, while assisted living facilities encourage seniors to pursue their interests in a safe and nurturing environment, in which individual needs are met. Other types of community include residential care and nursing homes, which provide for those with long-term medical needs, and respite communities that support seniors on a short-term basis.

Though each of these options offer a different type and level of care to residents, each promises overwhelmingly positive experiences for those choosing to live there; from companionship and the opportunity to try something new, to improved nutrition and a reduced risk of depression that may otherwise be precipitated by isolation and boredom; senior living communities have so much to give.

Exploring the Benefits of a Senior Living Community

Although you may already be sold on the idea of life within a senior living community, whether it’s for yourself or a beloved member of your family, there are numerous benefits to be explored prior to making that final decision. The opportunity to join a senior living community is one to be embraced for so many reasons:

  • The Opportunity to Join a Community

The most obvious benefit of relocating to a specialist facility such as those we’ve discussed is the opportunity to join a friendly community; the chance to become a part of a dynamic group of people who no doubt share your outlook on life, or are willing to inspire you with tales of their lives prior to you coming together. Senior living communities introduce companionship and the many advantages of peer-to-peer support, create a sense of safety, and enable residents to rediscover themselves and what it is they love to do, without the pressure of living alone and having to rely on others.

  • An Introduction to Faith or Spirituality

In addition to this opportunity to play an active role within a dynamic community comes the benefit of community spirit, which is often explored via worship, life enriching programs, and sessions in spirituality and faith; residents are able to venture towards elements of faith they may never have considered before, and embark upon a journey that may have seemed so out of reach while they were living independently. Fellowship, such as that offered by The Way International, lies at the heart of so many senior living communities, inspiring residents to explore concepts in more detail, and to embrace their faiths in different ways. The roots of the organization’s fellowship can be found in The Way magazine, which acts as a companion to many of the lessons that can be learned.

  • A Dynamic Array of Activities

Senior living communities aren’t just places to exist when you’re no longer able to take care of yourself at home, but centers at which residents enjoy a new lease of life, and are able to try activities they may never have considered before. While bingo, games evenings, visits from performers, and day trips are often the most popular recreational activities provided, others may include planned fitness programs, wellness sessions such as yoga, dancing and music, and brain-boosting games such as quizzes and puzzles. Activities are offered on a daily and weekly basis, and residents can choose to participate in as little or as much as they wish; the emphasis is on enrichment, health and well-being, and social interactions, as well as fun.

  • A Stress-Free Lifestyle

One of the main reasons for a senior citizen leaving their home and entering an independent or assisted living community is that they’ve found they’re no longer able to keep up with their chores at home, or that they’re finding everyday tasks more difficult than they should; if you’re exploring the potential of such a community, whether it’s for yourself or a loved one, then you’re likely to be looking for reassurance that life will continue as normal, but with a little assistance whenever it’s needed.

There’s strong evidence to suggest that social seniors are happier and healthier than those choosing the path of utter independence, and it’s certainly true that such a way of life removes many of the pressures that would otherwise dominate your life. Senior living communities offer safe facilities with an emphasis on security, and banish many responsibilities without removing a sense of independence, e.g., keen gardeners could still tend a plot, yet they won’t be solely responsible for undertaking the hard work.

A move into a senior living community is never a move away from independence or a sense of self, but towards an extended family of people with whom you, or your family member, can share a new set of experiences, and a chance of adventure when you least expect it. With so many types of assisted living available, and numerous venues to choose from, there is no reason why your life shouldn’t begin all over again from the moment you enter.

The Benefits of Being Part of a Senior Living Community

seniorliving

While the thought of entering a senior living community, or sending a loved one to live anywhere but their family home, can be a daunting one, it’s important to realize that there are so many choices to make – and a multitude of benefits, and positive experiences, to be found at each.

Choosing the Right Senior Living Community

There are numerous kinds of senior living communities and care facilities available, and all of them offer something different in terms of the services available; independent living communities, for example, enable residents to live comfortably without any obvious intervention, while assisted living facilities encourage seniors to pursue their interests in a safe and nurturing environment, in which individual needs are met. Other types of community include residential care and nursing homes, which provide for those with long-term medical needs, and respite communities that support seniors on a short-term basis.

Though each of these options offer a different type and level of care to residents, each promises overwhelmingly positive experiences for those choosing to live there; from companionship and the opportunity to try something new, to improved nutrition and a reduced risk of depression that may otherwise be precipitated by isolation and boredom; senior living communities have so much to give.

Exploring the Benefits of a Senior Living Community

Although you may already be sold on the idea of life within a senior living community, whether it’s for yourself or a beloved member of your family, there are numerous benefits to be explored prior to making that final decision. The opportunity to join a senior living community is one to be embraced for so many reasons:

  • The Opportunity to Join a Community

The most obvious benefit of relocating to a specialist facility such as those we’ve discussed is the opportunity to join a friendly community; the chance to become a part of a dynamic group of people who no doubt share your outlook on life, or are willing to inspire you with tales of their lives prior to you coming together. Senior living communities introduce companionship and the many advantages of peer-to-peer support, create a sense of safety, and enable residents to rediscover themselves and what it is they love to do, without the pressure of living alone and having to rely on others.

  • An Introduction to Faith or Spirituality

In addition to this opportunity to play an active role within a dynamic community comes the benefit of community spirit, which is often explored via worship, life enriching programs, and sessions in spirituality and faith; residents are able to venture towards elements of faith they may never have considered before, and embark upon a journey that may have seemed so out of reach while they were living independently. Fellowship, such as that offered by The Way International, lies at the heart of so many senior living communities, inspiring residents to explore concepts in more detail, and to embrace their faiths in different ways. The roots of the organization’s fellowship can be found in The Way magazine, which acts as a companion to many of the lessons that can be learned.

  • A Dynamic Array of Activities

Senior living communities aren’t just places to exist when you’re no longer able to take care of yourself at home, but centers at which residents enjoy a new lease of life, and are able to try activities they may never have considered before. While bingo, games evenings, visits from performers, and day trips are often the most popular recreational activities provided, others may include planned fitness programs, wellness sessions such as yoga, dancing and music, and brain-boosting games such as quizzes and puzzles. Activities are offered on a daily and weekly basis, and residents can choose to participate in as little or as much as they wish; the emphasis is on enrichment, health and well-being, and social interactions, as well as fun.

  • A Stress-Free Lifestyle

One of the main reasons for a senior citizen leaving their home and entering an independent or assisted living community is that they’ve found they’re no longer able to keep up with their chores at home, or that they’re finding everyday tasks more difficult than they should; if you’re exploring the potential of such a community, whether it’s for yourself or a loved one, then you’re likely to be looking for reassurance that life will continue as normal, but with a little assistance whenever it’s needed.

There’s strong evidence to suggest that social seniors are happier and healthier than those choosing the path of utter independence, and it’s certainly true that such a way of life removes many of the pressures that would otherwise dominate your life. Senior living communities offer safe facilities with an emphasis on security, and banish many responsibilities without removing a sense of independence, e.g., keen gardeners could still tend a plot, yet they won’t be solely responsible for undertaking the hard work.

A move into a senior living community is never a move away from independence or a sense of self, but towards an extended family of people with whom you, or your family member, can share a new set of experiences, and a chance of adventure when you least expect it. With so many types of assisted living available, and numerous venues to choose from, there is no reason why your life shouldn’t begin all over again from the moment you enter.

Palliative Care vs Hospice Care Services

The image above is of Hospice Patients by Length of Service in 2014.

Across the United States, palliative care is considered a collaborative approach to medical care for patients receiving curative treatment for the symptoms and stress of a serious illness. Hospice care refers to a similar collaborative approach to care and comfort of a patient, but the patient currently is not seeking or receiving curative treatments for their illness.

One of the main goals for both care methods is to improve the quality of life for the patient and their family. Palliative and hospice services bring the patient, family, and caregivers together to make decisions on care and the expectations for treatments.

The biggest differences in palliative and hospice care are typically the location of where a patient receives treatment and the treatment itself. The location will differ as hospice care tends to be provided in a home setting where there is less of a dependence on doctors as curative treatment is not being administered. Patients receiving palliative care services continue to explore life extending treatments and rely more on the day to day monitoring and testing of those treatments.

Aside from location, we also see differences in the treatments provided for patients in hospice and those receiving palliative care. Hospice treatments focus more on the comfort, both mental and physical, of a patient and making the most of their remaining time. Palliative care focuses on addressing the illness and treating to prolong the length of one’s life.

To enroll in a hospice program or receive benefits from an insurance company, recipients must generally be considered terminally ill or be within six months of death. In a study conducted in 2015 by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) over 35 percent of hospice patients remained under hospice for less than 7 days whereas only 10.3 percent remained in hospice over 180 days.

Now that we have defined the differences between the services offered, below we’ll take at local palliative and hospice service providers in Austin, TX and their unique, personalized treatment methods.

Information and data pulled from the Care Givers Library article on Hospice and Palliative Care and the NHPCO’s Facts and Figures – Hospice Care in America 2015 Edition found here.

The Sandwich Generation: Can Families Afford both Senior Living & College?

sandwichgenerations

Can you pay for college and a nursing home? This is a question that is on the minds of many in what is known as the sandwich generation. This means that they are acting as a caregiver for aging parents while also caring for and/or supporting their own children. When their children are ready to head off to college and their loved ones are needing care a support services they are faced with many tough financial decisions. The good news is that there may be funding sources that can reduce out-of-pocket expenses, though some sacrifices may need to be made. Below is research into both senior living and college expenses.

Average senior living and care costs and financing options

This tends to vary by state and by the type and duration of care needed. On average, nursing homes tend to cost approximately $6,200 per month for a semi-private room and $6,900 per month for a private room. An assisted living community may cost an average of $3,200 per month for a one-bedroom unit. If utilizing the services of an adult day care facility, this could cost around $67 per day. There are also many other costs to consider if you and your family decide on home care; This could cost you around $21 per day or more depending on the level of need. For some families, long-term care in their own home is the best option because the costs tend to be lower and they can keep their loved one close by.

Private health insurance and Medicare do not always pay for costs associated with home care. Medicaid, however, does typically cover most costs. The problem with this is that in order to qualify for Medicaid, the patient will have to stay below the poverty line. This means that they may have to get rid of assets that count as income. This could include their home, their vehicle, savings, etc. Some families may opt for long-term care insurance. The problem here is that long-term care insurance often needs to be purchased before the need arises. Many people do not anticipate the need for long-term care until it is too late. This can be a stressful process for many families and requires careful consideration and planning.

Average college costs and financing options 

The cost of college tuition varies by type of school (public vs. private) and by state. There are also many other costs to consider such as meals, housing, textbooks, transportation and many more. The average cost of tuition per year for public colleges and universities can be anywhere between $2,000-$5,000 and double or even triple that for private colleges and universities. The cost of text books and supplies can be as high as $1,200 and room and board could also cost another $5,000-$10,000.

There are many financial aid options available such as student loans, grants and scholarships. Student loans are an option, but will need to be paid back. Grants and scholarships do not need to be paid back. There are many scholarship and grant options available through the college and online through third party websites such as fastweb.com. Many of these scholarship and grant opportunities include an application process that requires the submission of letters of recommendation, personal statements and transcripts. Some colleges also give discounts to students who live in the same state or neighboring states, which can lead to additional savings.

In all, being in the sandwich generation can be difficult; But with proper preparation, financial planning and budgeting you can prepare for the needs of your parents and children.

3 Signs That It May be Time for Your Loved One to Consider Senior Living

Nursinghome

In many cases the last thing that your parent or loved one wants to think about, is moving out of his or her home. But as your loved ones’ age, moving into a senior living community may become a better alternative. Countless seniors live in 55+ or 62+ communities and find that they thrive in them, and you might find that it’s a good option for your family, too.

When it comes to senior living, there are many options. Communities such as Independent Living, Assisted Living and CCRCs, host shared or single apartment units, that make for plenty of privacy and independence. These apartments are specifically designed to be safe for seniors and are handicapped-accessible. Even if your parent does not have any health issues now, having the ability to use a walker, cane or wheelchair easily in their living space can come in handy later. In addition to the 24-hour staff that many of these communities’ host, all units are usually equipped with emergency buttons that seniors can push if they need assistance. Many communities also host many helpful services like transportation, dinning and housekeeping services.

Just a few helpful facts about senior living can make it easy to see why communities can be a great choice for seniors. If you don’t know whether or not it is time for your loved one to consider senior living, here are a few signs to watch for.

1. When living in their own home is starting to be too much of a burden

One of the main reasons seniors thrive after moving into a community is the fact that it can take a lot of work off of them. Keeping up a home can be hard enough for a younger person, and it can be extremely hard for someone who is reaching their golden years. Sometimes seniors don’t want to ask for help, so if you see your loved one not being able to keep up with the chores of maintaining a home don’t ignore it. Moving into a living community can help ease them physically and financially so make sure your paying attention.

2. Your Parent is Lonely

Many seniors get lonely as they get older, especially after they lose a spouse, child, family and friends. Some seniors also lose the ability to drive so they can no longer participate in the activities they once enjoyed. However, when living in a retirement community, seniors are constantly around others who are their age, making it easier for them to make friends and combat loneliness. Most communities also have gym/recreation centers and host social events and activities for seniors to participate and stay active.

3. Your Loved One’s Health is Good but Declining

The old adage says Hindsight is 20/ 20 and this couldn’t be truer for senior living. In many cases families who decide against a living community, because their health isn’t “that bad” often regret it. If your parent or loved one is in declining health, it is important to search out living options that can supplement their needs now rather than later. If your parent is in poor health considering assisted living or a nursing home might be a suitable choice. If your parent is still in good health, but isn’t able to get around as well as he or she used to, a living option like assisted living could work well for their needs.

If any or all of these three things apply to your parent or loved one, it might be time to start considering senior living. Luckily, there are plenty of great communities out there, and you’ll be able to find the right fit for your loved one in no time.

To find out more information about the different senior living options and which communities are in your area, start your search today.

6 Apps That Can Help Seniors Stay in The Loop

Apps for Senior Care

Many people have an image of seniors sitting in an arts and crafts room making popsicle stick bird houses, which is fine if you enjoy that type of living, but seniors can live vibrant lives, enjoying all the things they were too busy to do before they retired! The following Apps are free to download on your tablet or mobile device, and either take some of the busy work out of daily life, or add more fun to it.

Skype 

Talking to loved ones on the phone is nice, but with Skype, seniors can see them too. This App is really convenient for those who have loved ones that don’t live in close proximity. Imagine seniors being able to read a bedtime story to their grandchildren, or getting a call from an old high school friend who has moved far away. Skype can make keeping in touch feel more meaningful.

Page Once

Even though they may be retired, seniors still have finances to manage. This App manages their finances through the control center of an app. Some of the features in the App include a monthly bill tracker, bill organizer, and access to online bill pay setups. No more sitting down to write out checks each month!

Stockfish

Fancy a game of chess? Whether an experienced player, or beginner Stockfish sets up each level of expertise with a worthy opponent. Customize the experience by level and playing style. Seniors can also play with others in their community for a little healthy competition. It’s a great way to socialize with your neighbors or someone across the country!

Virtuoso Piano Free 3

Love music or playing instruments? This app allows individuals to create music and songs for free. The app turns your screen into a piano, or one of several other instruments you can play. Don’t forget to record and share the creations with family and friends.

Luminosity

We all know the positives that interactive brain games can bring to people of all ages & especially seniors. Luminosity offers fun and engaging games that are designed to keep the brain sharp, and at the top of its game. Choose from Sudoku, Crosswords, Skeeball and other word games.

Ted Talks

When seniors have down time and TV has become boring, try viewing the Ted Talks app. From the App seniors can view inspirational and informative talks from people like Steve Jobs, Stephen Hawking, and more. Choose from topics like art, entertainment, history, and health care. The list is endless and the talks are fascinating!

 

These Apps, and many more are valuable in supporting the continued development, independence and enjoyment of seniors. Learning and living doesn’t end, and technology helps the learning to continue. What are some of the Apps you use?

Concerns & Advice Part Two: Memory Care & The Circle of Life

dementia.jpg

Welcome back to the Concerns & Advice series. Last week we featured a blog on a member of the New LifeStyles family, who is dealing with the effect of dementia and Alzheimers on their parents. In this weeks post we are featuring advice to help others who may be in the same situation.

After your loved one receives a diagnosis of a dementia related illness, especially a progressive one, your mind fills with questions. What do we do now? How do we prepare for an uncertain future? Will I be capable of caring for my loved one’s needs as the illness progresses? Ideally, we would like to keep our loved one at home as long as possible. But, how should we decide when it is the proper time to move them into a memory care community?

Here are three criteria to consider when deciding if and when this move is necessary for your loved one.

Daily Self-Care

If your loved one is still capable of completing daily self-care, then remaining at home could be a better temporary option. If a little help is necessary for daily self-care tasks, your loved one may not want to ask you to assist them. So it may be in your best interest to bring in a home care aide a few hours each day, or a few days a week to assist with these tasks. In all your loved one may feel more comfortable allowing a home care aide to assist rather than a family member. If the daily care becomes so difficult that you feel overwhelmed on a regular basis even with the help of a professional caregiver, it is probably time to consider moving them into a memory care unit where full-time specialized care is available.

Disorientation and Wandering

There is nothing as frightening as having a loved one with memory issues slip, out for a “walk” only to be found days later suffering from exposure or worse. If you are capable of having someone with your loved one round-the-clock to monitor their movements, then staying at home is still possible. But if wandering and disorientation continues to occur frequently, it may be time to reconsider living at home.

Personal Safety

The same caution goes for the use of major appliances like the stove, or the car. One woman took her father’s car key off of his key ring and replaced it with a key that while similar, didn’t start his car. When her father went out to try to start the car the key wouldn’t work. He would sit in frustration for a moment and then go back into the house. Another strategy is to unhook the battery of the car if it is a car you do not use regularly. However, with all of these strategies and tips on how to keep your loved one safe; sometimes a devastating fire or car accident may still occur regardless of the precautions taken. At that time, it may be best to pursue memory care.

Although we may feel that are loved ones are happier at home, being at home may not be the best option if their safety is at bay. Memory care units are well equipped as a safe secure place for your loved one to live with dignity while the illness progresses, and should be considered as a viable option. If you would like to find memory care options in your area click here for more information.