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4 Things To Look For In An Assisted Living Facility

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Choosing An Assisted Living Facility

Choosing the right assisted living facility for a loved one is an important decision. The last thing you want to do is settle for a facility that does not meet their needs. Simply put, making sure your loved one’s quality of life meets all their needs is vital. At Courtyard Manor, we know how important compassion, care, and peace of mind are for you and your loved ones. With that in mind, here are 4 things to look for in an assisted living facility.

Top-Quality Care

First off, the type of care is most important. You want to look for an assisted living facility that offers the best possible care. In the best cases, you want 24/7 on-floor nursing care. Essentially, you want your loved one to be cared for at any time. Secondly, this gives you peace of mind knowing they are safe and cared for. Especially in circumstances of memory or behavioral issues, you want your loved ones to receive the best care.

Amenities And Activities

Does your assisted living facility feature available amenities and activities? If not, you will want to look elsewhere. Both amenities and activities play a large role in your loved one’s fulfillment and quality of life. Keeping them engaged mentally and socially will be important in this chapter of their life. 

Compassionate Staff

Another one of the 4 things to look for in an assisted living facility is to have a compassionate staff. Unfortunately, there are many assisted living facilities where the staff does not give them the kindness and compassion they deserve. The friendliness, or lack thereof, can play a big role in the overall happiness of your loved one. If the staff are not treating them kindly and giving them positivity, their mood will drop significantly. Always look for a facility where they treat each resident as if they were their own family.

All-Inclusive Stay

Finally, you should always look for a facility that features an all-inclusive stay. Essentially, this means they handle everything you can think of: medication, administration, meals, and more. The last thing you want is the added stress of unforeseen circumstances. Whether that is hidden fees or finding out they do not meet all your loved one’s needs, you should avoid this at all costs. Find a facility that is all-inclusive, transparent, and compassionate.

Your Loved Ones Deserve The Best

At Courtyard Manor, we believe every resident deserves the best. That is why we have created a family-like environment with top-quality care with loving staff. Our all-inclusive stay includes activities and amenities to give your loved ones a quality of life you can be proud of. Contact us today to learn more!

Reach Out To Us

Do you want to learn more about our many services, including memory care? If you do, please reach out to us today!
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The Causes of Malnutrition in Seniors

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The Causes of Malnutrition in Seniors

Since the coronavirus outbreak has presented such a severe risk to seniors, a poor diet is often overlooked by family members. Your elderly loved one’s primary goal might be to stay at home and avoid trips to the local grocery store. Even before concerns about the coronavirus caused so many seniors to self-isolate, an elder’s poor diet and malnutrition was a challenge many families faced. As the global pandemic continues to pursue, researchers say a weakened immune system can increase seniors’ risk of catching the virus. A diet low in nutrients can lead to a decrease in immunity. Other health issues linked to malnutrition include chronic fatigue, loss of bone density, slow healing wounds, and increased risk for falls. But, what are the causes of malnutrition in seniors?

The causes of malnutrition are incredibly varied, and they can be divided into three main types: medical, social, and psychological. 

Medical

As you explore potential reasons that an older loved one isn’t eating well, consider their medical problems. A poor appetite is probably the most common cause of malnutrition and is mediated by various factors. It is well known that energy intake decreases with age and that micro‐nutrient deficiencies are more likely to occur with a reduced energy intake. Taste and smell are another reason your loved one may have lost their appetite as they cannot enjoy their food. Oral health and dentures have been shown to affect food intake and generally deteriorate with aging significantly. For example, poorly fitting dentures might make chewing painful. Struggling to stand for very long and prepare meals could lead a senior to eat very little. There are conditions like Parkinson’s disease and arthritis that make tasks associated with preparing a healthy meal, such as slicing and chopping vegetables, difficult and even dangerous for a senior.

Social

Meals are often associated with socializing and a specified time to connect with friends and family. For seniors who are trying to distance themselves from others, eating alone might be necessary. However, the situation can become unpleasant for seniors, the longer they are isolated. Cooking and shopping for one may also seem like too much work after a while. Because of this, a senior may turn to fast foods and convenience items, including frozen dinners, processed foods, and canned foods instead. These foods tend to be low in nutrients and high in sodium and trans-fat. 

Psychological

Grief, depression, isolation, and loneliness are other reasons your loved one may not get the essential nutrients they need. A death in the family, a change in personal health, or anxiety about the coronavirus are just a few psychological challenges that can affect a senior’s eating habits. For instance, those trying to cope with stress, anxiety, or depression may consume too many unhealthy comfort foods or sugary treats. In contrast, others in psychological pain may lose their appetite altogether.

Once you pinpoint the leading cause of your loved one’s malnutrition, it will be easier to address those concerns. Whether it’s having groceries delivered or exploring meal delivery services, there are various solutions for you to consider. If you have any questions or concerns about your elderly loved one, please contact their local doctor. At Courtyard Manor, we are now offering Zoom tours and assessments! Feel free to give us a call today. 

Emma Mastel - KARMA Jack Digital Marketing Agency

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How to Host a Virtual Family Holiday Party

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How to Host a Virtual Family Holiday Party

While Christmas and New Years’ are around the corner, concerns about the coronavirus spread persist. Many seniors and their families are not sure how to plan for what is typically the most festive time of year. Unlike summer days, when families could quickly gather and even social distance, the colder weather makes that impossible for many. A solution that may make the holidays better this year is to host a virtual holiday party with your loved ones. The variety of video chat services that are now available and how easy they are to set up make this a viable way to celebrate. Keep on reading to learn more about how to host a virtual family holiday party! 

If your elderly loved one hasn’t done so already, walk them through adding Skype, Zoom, Google Hangout, or FaceTime to their laptop or tablet. You can accomplish this during a phone call. Each is a free platform that allows for virtual face-to-face interactions. While it’s always better to be together, these are possible solutions to consider during unusual times like these. Once you have that set up for them, here are some enjoyable virtual party ideas for you and your loved ones to consider!

Holiday Caroling

While it may feel silly to sing a holiday carol together virtually, it can be fun if there are little ones involved. Create a holiday playlist ahead of time with input from all of your family members. You could also have your family members download an app, like Sing-Along Christmas Carols. Christmas carols might be what your family needs this year! 

Gift Exchange

Who doesn’t love a fair gift exchange? With many people trying to stay at home and others fearful of traveling, you might need to reconsider how to host your family’s usual gift exchange. Organize gift drop-offs, and pick-ups or shipping presents to those who live further away. Then, get dressed up just like you would if you were meeting in person, and then jump on a video chat to open all of your gifts “together.” Also, don’t forget to decorate your background!

Classic Christmas Stories

Another great idea for your virtual holiday party to enjoy together is to read classic Christmas stories through a virtual call. Everyone can download or borrow favorite stories from the local library to read along with the storyteller. Have the grandparents read to the kids! Another fun option is to utilize the Share Screen feature on Zoom and watch a YouTube video like this one of Santa reading the story of Twas the Night Before Christmas.

Even though these are trying times with the coronavirus, there’s nothing like an excellent virtual holiday party with your loved ones. So, go online and make new memories with your family! 

Emma Mastel - KARMA Jack Digital Marketing Agency

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The Benefits of Music for the Elderly

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According to the American Music Therapy Association, studies have shown that music can provide comfort and relief to seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia. There are many ways to incorporate music therapy for the elderly, including creating playlists, popping in a sing-along DVD, or only singing along with your loved one and the music. The relationship between music and the elderly can be beneficial both as a form of stress relief and to aid in cognitive abilities. Keep on reading to explore how music can assist seniors in living a quality life. Music for the elderly can help promote overall health and wellness while eliciting positive memories and reactions. Here are the benefits of music for the elderly: 

Encourages Exercise

One of the benefits of playing music for the elderly is that it promotes exercise. Studies show that music aids in increasing coordination and mobility in seniors. It also helps motivate walking, running, dancing, and even stretching. Seniors of all ages and fitness levels can benefit from increased movement, improving muscle strength, flexibility, heart health, bone density, and balance.

Promotes Overall Wellness

Music has the power to stimulate feelings of well-being by evoking powerful memories and emotions. Seniors who have trouble remembering recent events may find meaning in songs that bring back older memories. Experts note that music can improve a person with dementia’s quality of life. It can help reduce pain and recovery time, increase relaxation, and enhance one’s mood. 

Improves Memory

Music therapy can increase brain chemicals that arouse positive feelings in people diagnosed with dementia, experts say. If you have a loved one who has dementia, you may have noticed that music can seem to lift her spirits and even transform her entire demeanor. Not only does music aid in the treatment of dementia, but it can also help prevent the debilitating disease. It can help assist in memory recall and also provide a communicative structure. 

Social Interaction

For some seniors, various health problems can make communication more difficult as they age. The resulting isolation can increase health risks — and shorten life spans. Music-related activities in assisted living — including dancing, singing, playing musical instruments, listening to music, and watching musical performances — can spark discussions that improve connections with friends and family members. Music could also help encourage self-expression and increase your loved one’s self-esteem. 

How to Integrate Music into Your Senior Loved One's Life

It is easier than ever to bring music into your parent’s life. Not only has technology made once forgotten media available at the tip of our fingers, but live music is also more abundant than ever. Here are several music activities for seniors to try out:

  • Create a personalized playlist with songs that your parents love. With the internet, you can find any song from any era you may be looking for. 
  • Encourage your loved one to play an instrument they once played. Studies have shown hobbies, like playing music, can help increase self-esteem and is therapeutic for seniors. Playing music can also help slow down the heart rate and lower blood pressure.
  • Have a sing-along to a song such as “When the Saints Go Marching In.” Sing-a-longs can also help promote a sense of community and allow people to interact while singing aloud.
  • Introduce your loved one to YouTube. Not only will they be able to find music they may have forgotten about, but they can watch live performances from their favorite artists in a bygone era.

Music has a significant impact on our lives, so it only fits to bring it back into your family member’s life as they grow older. Go put that record on and enjoy it together!

Emma Mastel - KARMA Jack Digital Marketing Agency

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Recognizing Depression in Seniors with Alzheimer’s

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More than 6 million Americans aged 65 years or older are affected by depression, but as few as 10% receive treatment. This may be because depression in older adults can confuse the effects of illnesses and the medicines used to treat them. Depression in seniors can severely limit the ability to rehabilitate from illness. Most often associated with an increased risk of cardiac diseases, depression increases the likelihood of death from those illnesses. Even if mild, depression should be evaluated and treated. Depression is more than just feeling sad. It is a common but serious mood disorder that needs treatment. 

Elderly individuals with depression may not feel “sad” at all. It may seem that sadness and depression go together, but many seniors with depression claim not to be sad. They may complain of not feeling motivated or having a lack of energy or may suffer from physical problems, all of which may represent symptoms of depression. Keep on reading to learn more about recognizing depression in seniors with Alzheimer’s.

Symptoms of Depression in Seniors

Insomnia is probably one of the most common symptoms of depression, and it is also a risk factor for depression onset and recurrence. Other sleep disturbances, including difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, oversleeping, or daytime sleepiness, are also signs of depression that you should be aware of. 

Other symptoms of depression in seniors include:

  • Sadness 
  • Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness
  • Fixation on death or thoughts of suicide
  • Unexplained or increased aches and pains
  • Loss of interest in socializing or hobbies
  • Weight loss or loss of appetite
  • Slowed movement or speech
  • Lack of motivation and energy
  • Neglect of personal hygiene
  • Skipping meals or forgetting to take medication
  • Increased use of alcohol or other drugs
  • Worries about being a burden, feelings of worthlessness, or self-loathing
  • Memory issues

Medications to Avoid

It’s essential to understand some medical problems can cause depression in older adults either directly or as a psychological reaction to the illness. Any chronic medical condition, mainly if it is painful, disabling, or life-threatening, can lead to depression or make the symptoms of depression worse. These medical conditions include Parkinson’s disease, stroke, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, thyroid disorders, vitamin B12 deficiency, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, lupus, and multiple sclerosis. Symptoms of depression can also occur as a side effect of many commonly prescribed drugs.

Some medications that can cause or worsen depression include:

  • Blood pressure medicine
  • Beta-blockers
  • High-cholesterol drugs
  • Tranquilizers
  • Sleeping pills
  • Ulcer medication
  • Heart drugs containing reserpine
  • Steroids
  • Medications for Parkinson’s disease
  • Painkillers
  • Arthritis drugs
  • Estrogens

If you’re worried that your loved one may be experiencing depression, please contact a health professional. By recognizing depression in seniors with Alzheimer’s, you will get them the help they need before it becomes severe.

Emma Mastel - KARMA Jack Digital Marketing Agency

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5 Dementia Care Mistakes to Avoid

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We know how difficult it can be to look after someone with dementia. You can research all you want, search the web, and buy all of the books. However, there are some situations you can’t foresee and seem impossible to prepare for. Luckily, we have discovered the common mistakes caregivers make when looking after one with dementia. Here are the following 5 dementia care mistakes to avoid. 

Do Not Argue

One of the 5 dementia care mistakes to avoid is arguing with those with dementia. This is easier said than done. A person with dementia sees the world very differently from the caregiver, so it is best to be agreeable and relaxed when talking to them. If they say they haven’t eaten all day when you know that they have just finished lunch, there is no point in contradicting them. You will have to learn to let things go and avoid tension by stepping into their world. Try to listen to what they are saying, even if it doesn’t necessarily make sense from your perspective.

Do Not Assume

Another mistake many caregivers make is that they treat those with dementia the same. The trajectory of dementia is very different for each person. There are guidelines to consider, but everyone has different experiences, coping mechanisms, and personality traits. Take these into account and enjoy their individuality! Do not assume. Always stay positive, verbally, and non-verbally!

Those with Dementia aren't Children

This is very important to take into account. Please do not treat those with dementia like infants. Yes, you may need to talk slowly, but this doesn’t mean you should talk down to them. They must keep socializing without being patronized. Acknowledge that their intelligence has not diminished, just their ability to understand you and express themselves verbally.

Do Not Mention Problematic Topics

Asking whether someone remembers something is very easy to do but can be very embarrassing and frustrating for the person with dementia. Stick to simple subjects or topics that they bring up themselves and be very aware of mentioning anyone who has died. This may be a passing comment for you, but for them, it could bring back all the emotions as if they had only just found out for the first time. Try not to say “calm down” instead be reassuring and understanding without disagreeing or aggravating the situation.

Delaying Care

It can be hard to let go, but it is essential for both your well-being and your loved one’s safety and health. In the later stages of dementia they may need constant company and supervision, which you can not provide. At Courtyard Manor, we offer all-inclusive nursing care on the floor 24 hours a day to provide care to those with dementia. No matter what stage of dementia your loved one is at, get in touch with our friendly team! We can discuss options with you and advise on the best care option for your specific situation. Feel free to reach out to us today! We would love to hear from you. You can also visit our website to learn more!

Emma Mastel - KARMA Jack Digital Marketing Agency

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Fantastic Fall Recipes to Try Out

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  Now that it’s fall, the arrival of autumn’s cooler temps makes cozy comfort foods seem more appealing than ever. Fall produce and seasonal flavors allow home cooks to make supercharged swaps for traditional ingredients in some of our favorite dishes, from soul-warming Mac and Cheese to Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Muffins! There’s no better time to load up on fresh produce like apples, squash, beets, Brussels sprouts, cranberries, kale, pumpkin, and potatoes during the harvest season when they’re at their peak. Using in-season fruits and veggies brings out the best flavors in this collection of easy dinner and lunch ideas. Here are some of our favorite recipes, so you don’t have to sacrifice taste for a meal that’s properly balanced and holistically healthy. Whether you’re following a vegetarian, vegan, or low-carb diet, there’s something for everyone on the menu. Keep reading to find out more about these fantastic fall recipes to try out at home! 

Acorn Squash With Brown Rice and Turkey Sausage

Acorn Squash With Brown Rice and Turkey Sausage

Acorn squash comes loaded with vitamins A and C, and it’s the perfect vessel for lean turkey sausage, peppers, and onions. Whole grains like brown rice supply even more fiber. Click here for Acorn Squash With Brown Rice and Turkey Sausage recipe! 

Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

Cauliflower Mac and Cheese

You might not realize it, but cauliflower is freshest at its peak season in September and October. You’ll love tucking into a soul-warming bowl of macaroni, knowing that the cheesy factor isn’t lost, even though it’s cut with puréed cauliflower. Get the recipe from Country Living! 

Butternut Squash and White Bean Soup

Butternut Squash and White Bean Soup

A couscous with pistachios, apricots, and cilantro goes on top of the chickpea- and bean-based dish, so you know this vegetarian dinner will fill you right up. Get the recipe for Butternut Squash and White Bean Soup here. 

Gingery Chicken and Spinach Stir-Fry

Gingery Chicken and Spinach Stir-Fry​

If you’re experiencing a take-out craving, whip up this easy stir fry instead. A few tablespoons of miso — a fermented paste — adds both flavor and gut-boosting probiotics. Click here for the recipe for Gingery Chicken and Spinach Stir-Fry! 

Grain-Free Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Muffins

Grain-Free Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Muffins​

Fall is synonymous with baking, and while most of our favorite pies, galettes, and loaves of bread have sugar in them, there are ways to lighten up our favorite baked treats. Gracie Gordon over at the Hungry Blonde folds semi-sweet chocolate and pecans into these irresistible breakfast-or-dessert muffins but makes them gluten-free by ditching gluten altogether. Plus, the pumpkin base is perfect around Halloween. Get the recipe from The Hungry Blonde. 

Now that you know a few fantastic fall recipes to try out at home share them with friends and family! The holidays usually call for foods heavy in sugar and carbohydrates, so why not switch it up with fresh produce and whole foods? 

Emma Mastel - KARMA Jack Digital Marketing Agency

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Dementia Symptoms to Track in Seniors

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 In the United States alone, thousands of families find out that their loved ones are diagnosed with dementia. With the number of reported cases of Alzheimer’s growing every year, this has become an unfortunate but common reality for many families. Learning to spot key dementia symptoms and behaviors in your aging loved one can make a huge difference. Your observations would provide helpful insight to doctors, leading to a quicker and more accurate diagnosis. Discover these six dementia symptoms to track in seniors: 

Memory and Recall

It is normal to forget things once in a while, but signs of forgetfulness every day is an early warning sign of dementia. For instance, if your mom is consistently losing track of her thoughts mid-sentence, or if your dad has trouble finding words in casual conversations, these are dementia signs to take note of. 

Losing Track of Time

Another red flag to be aware of is your elderly loved one loses track of time. This could mean your loved one forgets the day, month, year, holidays, or other essential dates like an appointment or birthday. Try to write down what they forget and how often the lapses occur. 

Inability to Learn Something New

Another common dementia symptom to track in seniors is the inability to learn something new. While many people assume that dementia challenges only have to do with memory, this condition impacts multiple areas of the brain. You may notice that your loved one is unable to learn or grasp new concepts or lessons.

For example, if they have a new television in their home with a new remote, and consistently can’t learn to use the new remote, you may want to note this. This is also a telltale sign that it is becoming difficult for them to live on their own as they find themselves unable to comprehend the ideas, tasks, or questions that come their way.

Repeating Themselves

Repetition is common in dementia because of memory loss and general behavioral changes. The person may repeat daily tasks, such as shaving, or they may collect items obsessively. They also may repeat the same questions in a conversation after they’ve been answered.

Losing Interest in Activities

Another thing to be aware of is your loved one losing interest in their favorite activities. The reason behind this has to do with shame or embarrassment over their diagnosis, or it can be a sign of depression. Some seniors may feel uncomfortable engaging in their favorite activities and fear that they may forget something or make a poor decision. When you notice your loved one is being reclusive in this manner and avoiding the things they love the most, you may need to step in to get them the assistance they need.

Wandering Around

Wandering is perhaps one of the most severe behaviors to be aware of. Individuals with dementia tend to exhibit this behavior, and it is one that could put your loved one in danger. The first time there is an issue with wandering, it is time to consider some assistance for the senior. Wandering can be a threat to their lives, so it is a behavior that should be taken seriously. 

Contact Us Today

 All in all, it is so important to understand the following dementia symptoms to track in seniors. You must pay close attention to see how your elderly loved one’s disease continues to progress. Although there is no cure, there are many resources and services available to help promote independence and make life more comfortable for those in dementia. Contact us today to learn more about our memory care here at Courtyard Manor. 

Emma Mastel - KARMA Jack Digital Marketing Agency

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Why Sleep is Important for Seniors

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Sleep plays a vital role in your physical health. As we age, we often experience regular changes in our sleeping patterns, such as becoming sleepy earlier, waking up earlier, or experiencing less deep sleep. However, disturbed sleep, waking up tired every day, and other insomnia symptoms are not a normal part of aging. Seniors who don’t sleep well are more likely to suffer from depression, attention, memory problems, and excessive daytime sleepiness. 

To help improve your loved one’s sleep quality, you must understand the underlying causes of their sleep problems. Adults over the age of 65 are recommended to get 7-8 hours of sleep per night. But getting quality sleep at night can be difficult for seniors. Here is why sleep is important for seniors and how they can get a good night’s rest: 

Why is sleep so important for seniors?

Changes in Mood

One reason why sleep is so essential is that insufficient rest can cause irritability, stress, problems with concentration, and mood swings. Long-term sleep deprivation can lead to cognitive issues and depression.

Increased Risk of Illnesses

Headaches, body aches, and weakness can sometimes be attributed to lack of sleep. When tired, an older adult’s immune system doesn’t perform as well, opening the door to disease and infection. Some studies have shown that lack of sleep can lead to heart problems, diabetes, and even an increase in the risk of breast cancer. 

Seniors that are having a hard time sleeping can get assistance from their doctor. However, here are a few things your elderly loved one can try to help ensure a restful night’s sleep:

Have a Set Sleep Schedule

It is beneficial to have a set sleep schedule. Going to bed at the same time every night, and getting up at the same time every morning, helps a person adjust to a natural sleep rhythm.

Being Mindful about Eating Habits

Alcohol, spicy foods, caffeine, and a diet high in sugar can cause sleep problems. Eating and drinking close to bedtime can also be a problem for some – rather than having a full meal before bed; it’s better to have a light snack or warm milk.

Develop a Bedtime Routine

Changing nighttime routines, and daily activities can have an impact on sleep. Try to find out what works for your loved one and create a schedule that they stick to – consistency is key! Some people find that more physical activity during the day helps them sleep better. Others find that napping during the day makes it harder to sleep at night, while some aren’t as affected. Try meditation before bed, a warm bath, or reading before bed can be part of a soothing bedtime routine. 

Other Alternatives

While sleeping pills and sleep aids can be useful when used sparingly for short-term situations, such as recovery from a medical procedure, they won’t cure your insomnia. They can make insomnia worse in the long-term. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that treats sleep problems by addressing the negative thoughts, worries, and behavior that prevent you from sleeping well at night. A study at Harvard Medical School found that CBT was more effective at treating chronic insomnia than prescription sleep medication—but without the risks or side effects. CBT can be conducted individually, in a group, or even online.

Contact Us Today

If your loved one is still experiencing sleeping issues, please feel free to contact their local doctor. Learn more about how we can help and what we can do for your family member. At Courtyard Manor, we offer all-inclusive senior care. Contact us to learn more about our services today. We want you to sleep well, knowing that your elderly loved one is in good care. 

Emma Mastel - KARMA Jack Digital Marketing Agency

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5 Things You Need to Know About Memory Care Facilities

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It is expected that the demand for memory care will rise exponentially over the coming decades. Today as many as 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, by 2060, this number is projected to nearly triple to 14 million. What is a memory care facility? Memory care facilities are long-term assisted living homes designed to meet the health, safety, and happiness needs of Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and brain injury sufferers. So what does memory care entail? Here are 5 things you need to know about memory care facilities before making that big decision:

Properly Trained Staff

First off, various memory care facilities have appropriately trained staff compared to assisted living facilities or nursing homes. At Courtyard Manor, we strive to make your loved one feel comfortable and have effective memory care. In a memory care facility, the staff, therapies, and monitoring are tailored to meet people’s specific needs with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. This personalization helps increase safety by promoting familiarity and reducing confusion. When touring memory care communities, we suggest asking these questions: What does staff’s training entail? How often is the instruction given? What does the state require? By asking these questions, you will get more of an idea of what makes memory care different from standard assisted living.

Specially Designed Units

Memory care units have enhanced security to prevent wandering, a typical behavior among people with dementia. They tend to be smaller than assisted living communities and feature unique designs to assist with navigation, such as color-coded hallways. The additional layout or safety features can include: clearly defined shared spaces, outdoor gardens or interior courtyards, and secured or alarmed doors. These specially designed units ensure safety and comfort for your loved one. 

Social Activities for Seniors

Another thing you should know before making a decision, memory care facilities do not isolate seniors as social activities are provided for seniors. Some everyday group activities may include: games like trivia or bingo, field trips to parks or shopping areas, art activities (such as painting or feeling different textures), and sing-alongs. Memory care facilities also plan options for all residents, regardless of the stage of dementia or Alzheimer’s. Many of these activities stimulate seniors’ minds, increase their motor skills, and provide meaningful social interaction.

Offer Dementia and Alzheimer's Care Services

Another thing to know about memory care facilities is that they offer specific Dementia and Alzheimer’s care services. Memory care addresses memory loss, wandering, and other side effects of dementia by providing effective therapies to reduce symptoms. The memory care services may include art therapy, music therapy, or even sensory stimulation based on individual needs. At Courtyard Manor, our all-inclusive nursing care is on the floor a hundred percent of the time, 24 hours a day. 

Memory Care is Highly Regulated

In addition to the licensure and registration requirements for assisted care living facilities, memory care units have additional regulatory oversight to ensure high-quality care and support for people with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Now that you are informed of the 5 things you need to know about memory care facilities consider looking into memory care. Of course, it all depends on your aged loved one’s situation. Not all assisted living facilities or memory care facilities are the same. If you have a loved one struggling with dementia or Alzheimer’s, it is worth knowing all of the benefits of memory care facilities to determine which will provide the best care for them. To learn more about our facility, contact us today! 

Emma Mastel - KARMA Jack Digital Marketing Agency