Monthly Archives: April 2019

Easy Crafts for Seniors with Dementia

For those whose lives have never been touched by dementia, it's not always easy to recognize the positive impact a class in crafts for dementia patients can have, especially since some of the participants of an art and crafts class don’t remember what they’ve done minutes later. People who haven’t seen what dementia is like up close don’t know the downsides. They also don’t realize how important it is to create as many good moments in the dementia patient’s life as possible. Dementia is a progressive disease that affects memory. The longer the person has it, the less they remember. They begin to forget how to do things and people they knew. Simple tasks become more difficult and more dangerous. But it isn’t until the end stages of the disease that the person loses their own…

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Alzheimer’s Communication: How to Talk to Someone with Alzheimer’s

Talking to someone with Alzheimer’s can be a frustrating task if you don’t take the right approach. Effective Alzheimer’s communication often takes a lot more effort than just talking for the sake of breaking the silence. Like any conversation, one with an Alzheimer’s patient is an opportunity to express their thoughts and feel important. It’s also a chance for you to understand how the person feels and what they need that they aren’t getting. Although engaging in conversation with a person whose condition has progressed is more challenging, it is possible. It’s important to both of you to take advantage of every moment you have while they can still communicate orally. Once that ability is gone, there are still some activities that will help them communicate. Getting the greatest value from every moment matters to the…

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What is Assisted Living & Is It Worth It?

Because it is a less well-known service offered for elderly care, many people still often ask “what is assisted living?” Assisted living bridges the gap between fully independent living and various levels of round-the-clock care. It gives seniors an opportunity to enjoy the benefits of living on their own without most of the restrictions necessary in facilities where residents have more affected capabilities. In assisted living, residents live in apartment- or townhouse-style dwellings. Residents have access to three meals a day, social events, and other amenities. Many strive to resemble a resort or an apartment complex more than a senior living facility. What Kind of Patient Thrives Best In Assisted Living? Residents who do best in assisted living are those with some ability to live without supervision and the will to remain independent as long as…

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What Is Assistive Technology?

The simple definition of assistive technology (AT) is “anything that makes life easier for people with disabilities.” They may use highly advanced technology like speech recognition software. They can also be as simple as a book with large print. Assistive technology for dementia patients helps patients remain independent and encourages social interaction longer. Depending on the person’s situation and the stage of dementia they are in, assistive technology can improve their quality of life. How Does Assistive Technology Work? AT includes computer systems and electronics, and the accessories needed to use them. It includes the software and hardware designed to educate, stimulate, and provide entertainment. It provides a resource for dementia patients to exercise their memories. Those people who have problems writing, making phone calls, or going up and down stairs can live more comfortably and…

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How to Pay for Assisted Living for Your Loved Ones

At-home care is the first choice for the majority of seniors but sometimes it is not the safest or most cost-effective option. Individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's, dementia and other progressive diseases do best with around-the-clock care, and this leaves many families wondering how to pay for assisted living for their loved ones. With proper planning, assisted living can be an affordable option for everyone. Even when a family is less prepared, there are ways to offset the costs of an assisted living program. We have gathered fourteen strategies your family can use to help pay for professional assisted living care. Do Your Research: Give your family and your senior loved one enough time to evaluate different care communities. If you like a specific location, join the waiting list. Making last minute decisions could end with your family…

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