As our loved ones age, the question of appropriate care becomes paramount. Understanding the distinctions between skilled nursing and assisted living is crucial for making informed decisions tailored to the unique needs of our elderly loved ones. 

As our loved ones age, their cognitive abilities tend to decline; this often impairs their ability to responsibly manage their finances. This can be an uneasy conversation to have, but it is definitely a necessary one. Who will oversee their finances when they cannot anymore? We are here to provide you with important information to understand what course of action to take and what problems to look out for if you have to become their financial manager.

While memory loss is a large part of Alzheimer’s disease, it tends to be our focus when it should not be. Individuals who suffer from Alzheimer’s undergo many neurological and physical changes, which can cause challenges for them and those around them. We have found that being informed and educated about the disease is the best way to prepare for the road ahead.

If you have a loved one with Alzheimer’s, you know it can be difficult to communicate with them at times. Understanding the 5 A’s of Alzheimer’s can help you.

Apraxia: inability to perform purposeful movements. When this happens, their brains and muscles just are not communicating.

Memory care and assisted living communities can be very similar but also different and are assessed on the level of care provided. Memory care communities cater specifically to those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia; memory care programs are catered more towards dementia-friendly activities and have staff who are specially trained in cognitive impairments.

As a memory care community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating the complexities of dementia, we understand that receiving a diagnosis is a pivotal moment not just for the individual but for their entire family. The journey ahead may seem daunting, but with understanding, support, and collaborative efforts, we can navigate this path together.

For many people, home is the heart of their lives. The idea of leaving that can be scary; it is the idea of leaving behind memories and comfort. However, we know that aging at home is not always possible. So how do you start talking to your loved one about the transition to an assisted living community?

There are often a lot of feelings around the transition to an assisted living community; you are not alone in that. Common feelings manifest as guilt, distress, and inadequacy. You are probably questioning if there was more you could have done or why you didn’t push harder to keep them at home. This is normal.

As our loved ones get older, they usually require a higher level of care. Your options are usually at-home caregivers or assisted living communities, but it can be difficult to determine which is the best option for you and your family. So, what is the difference between the two? 

As your parents or other loved ones start to age, it is hard to know if they are safe alone. There are obvious signs, like increased forgetfulness or cognitive decline, but what about those who are not showing such obvious signs? While less obvious, there are signs that someone you care for should not be living alone. 

As your loved ones age, it is likely there will be several uncomfortable conversations you have to have with them. Things like finances, estate planning, care and treatment, and so on will have to be discussed; it is important to do it before it is too late. These conversations are difficult, though. So how do you have them?