 If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with dementia, you may notice that they experience certain increases in strange or erratic behaviors when the sun starts to set, including trouble sleeping that can last well into the night. This phenomenon is called sundowning, and it can be a confusing time for both you as a caregiver and your loved one. In this article, our Tapestries memory care team in NJ we’ll discuss symptoms, causes, and how you can help prevent sundowning.
Sundowning in Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease The Alzheimer’s Association defines sundowning as “increased confusion that people living with Alzheimer’s and dementia may experience from dusk through the night.” It’s not a disease or a condition itself, rather it’s a set of behaviors that can sometimes accompany dementia diagnoses. Sundowning can be very frustrating for both the person with dementia and their caregiver, however it is possible to manage it in order to reduce the impact. Common Symptoms of Sundowning
What Causes Sundowning? While there is no exact known cause, doctors believe that certain factors can contribute to sundowning, including:
How to Prevent Sundowning Unfortunately, there is no way to completely prevent sundowning from happening, but there are ways to manage your loved one’s day-to-day routine and their environment in order to reduce the likelihood that they will experience sundowning:
If you would like more information about sundowning and how to help your senior loved one cope with it, please contact our team at UMC today or visit our website: https://umcommunities.org This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/umc-corp/blog/what-is-sundowning-exactly/
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 If you are the primary caregiver for mom or dad, you might have crossed vacations off your summer plans because you’re unsure who could properly care for them while you’re gone. If this sounds like your current situation, we would like to open your world to a program called Respite Care at UMC the Shores. In this article, our respite caregivers in South Jersey will review what this senior care option entails in our assisted living community.
What is Respite Care? To say it simply, respite care is when you drop mom or dad off at our shoreside community for a little vacation of their own! Our respite residents receive personalized care from professional caregivers in a safe and nurturing environment. Upon arrival, each respite care plan is customized to each individual’s needs. Respite residents also enjoy the perks of weekly housekeeping, delicious meals, transportation assistance, and group activities with full-time residents. Opting for a respite care program while you’re on vacation is the best way to ease your mind because you’ll know your loved one is safe with us. You’ll have no need to worry if mom’s neighbor checked in on time or if they will read your care instructions. At UMC the Shores, your loved one is in a safe community, surrounded by dedicated, trained professionals that will ensure their health, safety and enjoyment at all times. A Vacation of Their Own Earlier, we mentioned that when you choose respite care for your loved one, they are getting their own vacation. We welcome respite residents and encourage them to use all of our onsite amenities and participate in all activities! Your loved one will get to spend their days enjoying the company of peers who share the same interests! Whether it’s sewing, arts and crafts, gardening, dancing, or something else entirely, we are confident that our independent lifestyle community has a class or club that your loved one will enjoy. Being a caregiver for your loved one isn’t for the faint of heart, and while you need a break from the day-to-day to reset, so does your loved one! While they appreciate everything you’re doing for them, a little break from you will do them some good as well. Taking this time apart allows everyone to come home with a little R&R (rest, and relaxation) and a newfound appreciation for one another. A Sneak Peak into Independent or Assisted Living One of the best advantages of respite care is that, more often than not, your loved one doesn’t want to leave! Our respite residents get to have an insider view of independent and assisted living without the commitment, and it opens their eyes to everything they are missing out by remaining at home. As expected, most seniors don’t want to leave their homes and don’t like the idea of “losing their independence” by moving into a senior living community. The thing is, when they have the opportunity to actually experience life in our community, they realize how much more independent it allows them to be. They can meet with friends right outside their door, they can enjoy meals and activities together, and they won’t have to worry about the mundane chores like cleaning, cooking and keeping up with prescriptions. At The Shores, all residents have access to transportation, housekeeping, and the support they need, when they need it. Respite Care in South Jersey As you can see, respite care is really the best of both worlds whether you’re a caregiver looking to take a vacation or a senior looking to have a little getaway of your own. It’s also a great opportunity for seniors to take community living for a spin! As a respite resident at UMC, you can take advantage of all the perks of assisted living without the full-time commitment. If you would like to learn more about our senior living community in South Jersey, or our respite care program, visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/theshores/ This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/theshores/blog/need-a-vacation-but-need-care-for-mom-or-dad/  The realization that your loved one needs long-term care (also called skilled nursing) may come as a shock. After that shock wears off, you’ll likely feel an urgent need to take action. Your parent’s transition to a long-term care community can be difficult and emotional to navigate, especially without any prior experience or background knowledge about this type of senior care.
At United Methodist Communities at Pitman, we’re proud to offer expert long-term care services to assist seniors who have chronic illnesses or mobility issues. We’ve compiled a list of the five most important benefits of Pitman’s skilled nursing service.
Compassionate Long-Term Care for Seniors in Gloucester County Choosing long-term care services at Pitman ensures that seniors with more complex needs receive the support, care, and compassion they absolutely deserve. With a dedicated team of health professionals, opportunities for socialization, and a secure living space, your loved one may rediscover some capabilities that were once lost. On top of this, they can connect with other residents and explore interests that they left on hold a long time ago. Our unwavering mission is to empower every type of senior and ensure they live their lives to the fullest – and we don’t intend to stop anytime soon. To learn more about our compassionate long-term care services in Gloucester County or how UMC enhances quality of life for all NJ seniors, please visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/pitman/ This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/pitman/blog/long-term-care-at-pitman-5-indisputable-benefits/  When seniors are coping with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, daily tasks that were once so simple and quick to complete, like getting dressed for the day, can become exhausting. If you are the sole caregiver for your loved one with dementia, keeping up with their daily hygiene can often be a frustrating battle. Fortunately, there are ways to make this process easier for you and your loved one. In this article, our memory care team in NJ has compiled tips to help caregivers better manage their loved one’s hygiene.
How an NJ Memory Care Program Can Help A professional memory care program at an assisted living community like UMC at Collingswood can be a valuable resource for your loved one with dementia. Our Tapestries Memory Care offers a comprehensive approach, focusing on the unique needs of each person with dementia. We understand that dementia is not one-size-fits-all, so we don’t enforce universal schedules. In our memory care wing, your loved one can eat when hungry and sleep when tired, all while receiving the daily support they need. Tapestries also provides engaging activities to stimulate cognitive function and promote overall well-being. By enrolling your loved one in our care, you can alleviate the daily battle with hygiene – all while knowing they are in a safe, nurturing, and engaging space. Memory Care for Seniors and Support for Caregivers in Camden County NJ Coping with your loved one’s dementia behaviors is a hard task, and one that shouldn’t be handled alone. One of the best ways your loved one can manage their confusion, agitation, and anger while maximizing their cognitive abilities is through professional memory care at a reputable senior community. At UMC at Collingswood, we have memory care specialists on site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide support for dementia residents. Collingswood’s Tapestries program emphasizes diffusing negative dementia behaviors and engaging residents in exercises to strengthen cognitive function and enhance quality of life. Our specialists are also available to answer any questions you or your family may have, and to ease any stress about your loved one’s transition into the Tapestries memory care neighborhood. If your loved one is showing early signs of dementia, please call 856-369-3092 to find out how we can successfully meet their needs and support your caregiving journey. To learn more about Tapestries memory care in Camden County, please contact United Methodist Communities at Collingswood or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/collingswood/ This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/collingswood/blog/5-hygiene-tips-for-seniors-with-dementia/  Summer is an exciting time for seniors in Sussex County, New Jersey. With plenty of warm weather, sunshine, and blue skies, there is no shortage of outdoor activities to keep seniors active and engaged. From scenic drives around the countryside to summer music and craft festivals, there is always something fun to do this time of year! Here are some of our top summer activities for seniors in Sussex County NJ, compiled by our senior activity directors at UMC at Bristol Glen.
Stairway to Heaven – Pochuck Boardwalk One great summer activity for Sussex County seniors is exploring the beautiful countryside. With a plethora of natural attractions, including state and national parks, and numerous walking trails, Sussex County offers seniors the opportunity to get out and enjoy the beauty of nature. One popular hiking spot perfect for seniors is the Pochuck Boardwalk section of the “Stairway to Heaven.” Now, we know this might sound intimidating, but this particular portion of this trail is flat and walks along an elevated boardwalk. For our locals, you park in the lot across the street from Heaven Hill Farm and cross the street to the farm, where you will see the start of the walking trail. If you’re looking for more of a challenge, start the hike at the bottom of the parking lot (don’t cross the road), and you’ll be rewarded with a gorgeous vista view of Northern NJ and the Hudson Valley. Stairway to Heaven a part of the Appalachian Trail and is a “must-hike” for all hiking enthusiasts! Rock, Ribs, and Ridges Festival: June 23-25th Rock, Ribs & Ridges is an annual three-day music and food festival held in Sussex County, New Jersey. This exciting event features some of the best national rock and country bands and a wide selection of delicious BBQ dishes. Music lovers can enjoy live performances from top acts on multiple outdoor stages while enjoying tasty food and the beautiful outdoors! The festival also showcases local craft beers and wines. In addition to fantastic entertainment, Rock, Ribs & Ridges offers plenty of activities for all ages, such as games, contests, and interactive exhibits. With its fun-loving atmosphere and delicious food options, this summer festival is great for families and sure to please anyone looking for a good time! NJ Taco Festival: Sept 9th The NJ Taco Festival 2023 promises to be a foodie’s paradise with a wide variety of delicious tacos made by some of the best taco vendors in New Jersey! Who doesn’t love tacos, right? The festive atmosphere will be complemented by live music, entertainment, and fun-filled activities for the whole family. Whether you’re a die-hard taco lover or simply looking for a fun summer outing, this festival will deliver. Always Something To Do at UMC Although Sussex County has farmland as far as the eye can see, it is also home to music, food festivals, and a lively downtown nestled in the heart of Newton, NJ. Newton’s variety of restaurants, mom and pop shops, and community activities are only a five-minute trip from UMC at Bristol Glen. This means you can retire in the beautiful countryside, while still being able to still go out for a good time nearby. At Bristol Glen, you can enjoy all the perks of assisted living, like prompt support with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and a monthly activities calendar, and then venture out to enjoy all the local summer activities Sussex County has to offer. Our senior living community can even help arrange transport to these nearby summer festivals! If you would like to learn more about our senior living community in Newton, NJ, give us a call today or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/ This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/bristolglen/blog/local-summer-activities-for-seniors/  Eating healthy is good for everyone, but wholly essential for older adults. If you are new to healthy eating, there is more to it than just deciding to focus on your nutrition – that’s only the first step! There is some planning, shopping and preparation involved, but you don’t need to become a planning guru in order to shop for the right ingredients and prepare healthy meals to eat each day. Our experts’ tips for healthy meal planning will help you find the nutritional food you need that sharpens your mind, makes you feel better, boosts your immunity, and makes you stronger. So, where do you start exactly? What should you add to your shopping list for nutritional meals on a limited budget?
These Foods Should Be On Your Grocery List Everyone should eat enough nutritional foods throughout the day. Though older adults tend to eat less, that doesn’t mean they can’t obtain the proper nutrition – it only means they have to eat “smarter.” If you are a senior, here are some smart food choices you should include on your grocery list:
Eating Well On A Budget Eating nutritiously when you have a limited budget is challenging, but there are ways to overcome this. Make a grocery list before shopping, stick to it, and you will cut down on impulse purchases. Spoil yourself once a month with something you don’t usually buy, and the discipline you show the rest of the time feels easier. Join a grocery store savings club if there is one in your area, use discount coupons, and buy items in bulk with a friend. Purchasing in large quantities can be cheaper, but only if it’s something you will use up. Is there a farmer’s market in your area? Go with a family member or friend to purchase fresh seasonal vegetables and fruit. If you don’t have someone to go with that day, someone will always be ready to answer your questions and chat at the market. You might even find perishable items are sold at a discount by the end of the day. Let A UMC HomeWorks Home Health Aide Help You Eat Better Did you know that people eat healthier when they have someone to cook and eat with? UMC HomeWorks provides homecare help for seniors, and our home health aide services include meal preparation, feeding, and shopping. The home health aides consult with our staff nutritionists to ensure your shopping list is affordable, healthy, and delicious! UMC HomeWorks’ caregivers are state-certified home health aides (CHHA) screened for experience, compassion, and patience in dealing with seniors. We develop a unique care plan for each of our senior adults with nursing assessments by a Registered Nurse (RN). Please visit our website for more information or contact us today if you want a home health aide to assist you or a loved one with eating healthy: https://umcommunities.org/homeworks/ This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/homeworks/blog/shopping-healthy-on-a-budget/  Older adults are more susceptible to certain illnesses and diseases, so empowering yourself and being aware of the early signs and symptoms is essential. Prevention is the best approach when it comes to your health, and while we can’t prevent every condition from developing, there are ways to keep unfavorable side effects at bay. Here are the seven most common illnesses for seniors, including early warning signs and symptoms you should watch out for.
Hypertension Hypertension is the medical term for high blood pressure. It often doesn’t have any symptoms, so you should have your blood pressure checked regularly by your doctor. People with extreme hypertension may exhibit the following symptoms:
While anyone can have high blood pressure, certain risk factors include being overweight, smoking, having an unhealthy diet, and not getting adequate exercise. You can reduce your risk of developing hypertension by exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and maintaining a sensible weight. Alzheimer’s Disease Alzheimer’s disease affects approximately one in nine people age 65 and older. Because it can be difficult to diagnose in the early stages, it’s especially important to be aware of potential symptoms, such as:
While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, specialized programs like Tapestries Memory Care at UMC can help seniors effectively manage it – allowing them to retain as much independence as possible. It’s also important to be aware of any family history of Alzheimer’s. Arthritis & Osteoporosis Arthritis is one of the most common age-related chronic conditions in seniors, and it causes joint pain and inflammation that can greatly interfere with everyday life and activities. People can manage their arthritis with painkillers and corticosteroids, but there is no cure. If you’ve been experiencing stiffness or tenderness in your joints, or if your mobility has recently been affected by pain in your joints, please speak with your doctor. Osteoporosis is a progressive bone disease that weakens the bones, and older women are especially susceptible to it. Weakened bones can result in fractures or breaks if you fall or knock yourself against an object, and the condition can greatly affect your mobility as it progresses. Coronary Heart Disease According to the CDC, heart disease is the leading cause of death for people older than 65., The condition is caused by a build-up of fatty substances blocking the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart. While symptoms aren’t always present, some signs include chest pain or more severe issues, including heart attacks. The best way to combat heart disease is to exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet full of lean proteins, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Cancer There are many different types of cancer, so older adults should have various cancer screenings on a regular basis. Speak with your doctor about your family’s history with cancer because you can be predisposed to certain types based on your genetic history. There are too many signs and symptoms of cancer to list here, but if you’re feeling off and aren’t sure why, speak with your doctor. Chronic Kidney Disease This is a long-term condition where the kidneys don’t work as efficiently as they should, and older adults are more susceptible to developing it. While there are rarely early warning signs of chronic kidney disease, people in advanced stages may exhibit blood in their urine, swollen ankles, feet, or hands, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Diabetes Diabetes affects nearly 25% of people aged 65 and older, making it a significant health risk for seniors. Your doctor can do a blood test to check your blood sugar levels. Symptoms of diabetes include:
For more information about illnesses that may be affecting you or your senior loved ones, please contact our long term care team at UMC today or visit us at: https://umcommunities.org/ This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/umc-corp/blog/common-illnesses-in-elderly/  With summer inching closer and closer, we’re sure you’re spending more time outside in the sun. It’s great to soak up that Vitamin D, but it’s important that you’re doing it safely and protecting your skin. Here, we will discuss simple ways that older adults can stay safe from the disadvantages of too much sunlight.
The Importance of Sunshine Exposure to sunlight is the only way our bodies can naturally make Vitamin D, which is necessary for strong bones, better mood, improved cognition, and cardiovascular health. Sunlight is also known to improve our sleep patterns, as the sun heavily influences the body’s circadian rhythm. Lack of sun exposure can be responsible for insomnia or irregular sleeping patterns. The Risks of Too Much Sun Exposure The biggest danger of sun exposure is skin cancer, which is the most common cancer in America. Skin cancer is linked to overexposure to radiation from UV or ultraviolet light. UV light exposure can also cause sunburn, wrinkles, discoloration, and loss of elasticity. Some people believe skin cancer takes a long time to form and that it isn’t a significant cause for concern in your senior years – however, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Seniors are at just as much risk, if not at a higher risk, for skin cancer than the younger generations. A Healthy Balance There can be a lot of misleading information regarding sun exposure and seniors. While it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation, there is a general rule of thumb to live by: seniors need 5-10 minutes of sun exposure 2-3 times a week to produce healthy levels of vitamin D. With that in mind, it’s recommended to apply sunscreen if you’re spending more than ten minutes in direct sunlight or when the UV rate is extremely high. You can check this on most weather apps, channels, and stations. Additional sun protection can include lightweight, breezy tops, pants, large sun hats, or even umbrellas to provide some shade. Overall, we recommend doing what feels comfortable for you. If you feel yourself getting too hot and it hasn’t been ten minutes yet, listen to your body. Safe in the Sun at UMC at The Shores It can be confusing which advice to follow, that’s why all of our senior caregivers in South Jersey are trained in the best practices to provide all-encompassing care for our residents. With our beautiful location just a short drive to the beach, we know our independent seniors enjoy their time outside, and it’s our priority to make sure they enjoy it safely. Visit our website to learn more about our South Jersey senior living campus, lifestyles, activities, and location: https://umcommunities.org/theshores/ This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/theshores/blog/the-sun-is-shining-protect-your-skin/  The first Saturday in May is National Fitness Day, and while we support seniors keeping an active lifestyle – we support their safety a whole lot more. What do we mean by this? Some exercises are more “senior-friendly” and some could actually cause more harm than good to older adults. In this article, our team of senior caregivers in Gloucester County will review the main exercise safety concerns for older adults, which exercises to avoid, and ways to exercise safely.
One of the primary concerns for seniors is the risk of falls. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in four Americans aged 65 and older falls each year. These falls can lead to serious injuries, such as hip fractures or head trauma, and can significantly impact a senior’s quality of life. Therefore, it’s best for seniors to avoid exercises that involve high-impact movements or sudden changes in direction. Another common concern for seniors is joint pain and arthritis. Exercises that put excessive strain on the joints, such as running or heavy weightlifting, can aggravate joint pain and cause further damage. Additionally, seniors with chronic conditions such as osteoporosis or heart disease may need to avoid certain exercises, like high-intensity cardio, to prevent exacerbating their conditions. Fortunately, there are plenty of exercises that seniors can safely engage in to improve their physical health. Low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, and yoga can help improve cardiovascular health, flexibility, and balance without putting excessive strain on the joints. Strength training exercises that use light weights or resistance bands can also help improve muscle strength and bone density without causing undue stress on the body. No matter which exercise you are considering incorporating into your routine, it’s important to speak with your fitness instructor or healthcare provider before performing any new strenuous activities that may negatively impact your current conditions. Independent lifestyle communities, like UMC at Pitman, can be a great resource for seniors looking to stay active and improve their mobility. Our community has an on-site fitness center and exercise classes designed specifically for older adults. Trained staff members help our residents safely perform each exercise and can modify them if needed if they have mobility limitations or other concerns. As well as providing exercise opportunities, UMC at Pitman also offers other resources to help seniors maintain their physical health. Our healthcare professionals on-site can help monitor chronic conditions and make professional recommendations regarding their fitness routines. Nutritious meals and snacks can also help seniors maintain a healthy weight and provide the energy needed to keep on moving! Exercising safely at UMC in Pitman, NJ At United Methodist Communities at Pitman, our favorite fitness classes include dance, Tai Chi, and chair yoga. We understand that each resident has different exercise goals, and may have to modify exercises according to certain health conditions or mobility limitations. Senior health is our top priority, so we constantly strive to offer a range of fitness classes to support each of our seniors in their journey to live life to the fullest! For more information about how we support senior health and fitness in Pitman, New Jersey, please give us a call today or visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/pitman/ This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/pitman/blog/senior-exercises-to-avoid/  Planning a Mother’s Day celebration may look a little different with your mom now in senior living, but that doesn’t mean it has to be any less special – or exciting for this irreplaceable woman in your life! Grandmothers are usually the matriarch in the family, the glue that holds it all together. They can be well rounded, nurturing, strong, and very thoughtful. And if there’s one thing they all have in common, it’s their love for family. If you’re fortunate enough to have a grandmother for your children, do not waste the opportunity to celebrate them – especially today!
Here are four great ways to celebrate and honor senior moms on Mother’s Day from our assisted living coordinators in South Jersey.
Honoring Grandma in assisted living on Mother’s Day Mobility and health issues can prevent some seniors from being able to leave their assisted living community, like UMC at Collingswood, to celebrate Mother’s Day. That being said, there’s no reason we can’t bring the celebration to them! Give us a call and let us know how we can best accommodate your Mother’s Day plans for your mom. Our senior living community has many indoor and outdoor communal spaces where your family can gather and safely spend time with Grandma. Get in touch to find out how we can help make Mother’s Day truly special for your loved one. To learn more about our special events for seniors in Camden County, please visit our website at: https://umcommunities.org/collingswood/ This blog was originally published at https://umcommunities.org/collingswood/blog/celebrating-moms-at-collingswood/ |
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