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Dementia: Early Symptoms & What To Do

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Early Signs Of Dementia

When a loved one starts to display early dementia symptoms, it can be difficult on you and your family. However, detecting those symptoms can be challenging as well. With that said, there are ways to determine if your loved one is displaying these symptoms or not. Here are dementia’s early symptoms and what to do.

Short-Term Memory Loss

First off, one of the earliest symptoms is trouble with short-term memory. Things that happened just minutes ago may slip their mind. On the other hand, their long-term memory may still be completely normal. When frequent short-term memory lapses begin, this is one of the dementia early symptoms to take note of. 

Communication Issues

Is your loved one frequently struggling to find the right words? Trouble communicating is another major indication of dementia’s early symptoms. Even more, they may start communicating less in general. If communication is starting to fade and struggle, you should take note that this is often a sign of dementia.

Confused & Distracted Behavior

Confusion is another common early symptom of dementia. If your loved one has trouble remembering names and faces, this could be an indication of mental decline. They may show signs of foggy thinking with everyday tasks as well.

What To Do

Scheduling a doctor’s visit for your loved one is always a good idea. By getting a professional opinion through tests and evaluations, you will have a better idea of your loved one’s state of mind. Furthermore, it is time to start considering assisted living for your loved one. Essentially, this can give them much needed support and boost their quality of life. 

Offering Peace Of Mind

You deserve peace of mind that your loved one is receiving the best care possible. At Courtyard Manor, we offer a quality of life you can’t find anywhere else. Our 24/7 nursing staff is here to give your loved one with dementia the compassion and service they deserve. Visit our site to learn more.

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Assisted Living For Seniors – What You Need To Know

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Assisted Living For Seniors

Assisted living refers to a category of housing catering to individuals requiring support for their day to day lives. In most cases, an individual moves to an assisted living facility to receive care regarding medical or personal services. This quick guide will give you an overview of assisted living for seniors and what you need to know.

Services

Assisted living for seniors comes with a wide variety of services for your loved ones. First off, necessities such as meals and medications are provided. Laundry services are typically provided as well, and nursing staff are on site for additional support. Moreover, daily social functions are provided to meet social and mental needs. All in all, assisted living for seniors aims to give a home-like, welcoming environment for a rich quality of life.

Memory Care

Not every assisted living facility offers memory care. However, the truly exceptional facilities provide ongoing support for memory care, Alzheimer’s, and dementia. If your loved one requires additional care for these services, make sure to choose a living facility that can provide them. 

Assisted Living Vs. Nursing Homes

There is some overlap between these two settings. Both assisted living and nursing homes provide similar services such as personal hygiene and meals. However, assisted living generally refers to moderately active seniors who do not necessarily require 24-hour care. Nursing homes, however, typically refer to situations where a loved one requires constant monitoring and support. Additionally, assisted living offers a wider variety of options and accommodations. 

Personalized Care

One of the greatest benefits of assisted living for seniors is the personalized care individuals can receive. Each senior has unique needs and requirements, and assisted living can meet these needs. Some may need assistance for taking the proper medications on schedule, while others may need help bathing and grooming on a day to day basis. With assisted living, personalized care can meet each individual at their specific level of care required. 

Summary

In conclusion, assisted living for seniors offers a warm, family-like setting with personalized care. Its numerous services can offer seniors a high quality of life while meeting their specific needs. Assisted living can give you and your loved ones peace of mind when you need it most.

Our Promise To You

Here at Courtyard Manor, our mission is to provide the best hands-on experience for our residents while preserving their dignity. You can have peace of mind knowing your loved one is in good hands. Contact us today to learn more! 

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Five Signs That It Is Time For Memory Care

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Memory Care

Making the decision to implement memory care for a loved one is always a difficult process. However, your loved one’s quality of life must always be protected. There are certain indicators that it is time to consider assisted living. With that said, here are five signs that it is time for memory care.

Safety Becomes An Issue

First off, safety is crucial for your loved one. When signs of mental decline start to appear, your loved one’s safety may be of concern. This can include injuries at home, wandering, and mismanaging vital medication. If your loved one’s safety is at risk, it is time for memory care.

Financial Negligence

Forgetting finances is oftentimes one of the first signs of memory issues. If bills and going unpaid and piling up, your loved one is in need of memory care. Having the conversation about memory care may be difficult, but it is important when they are no longer able to properly handle finances.

Decline In Personal Hygiene

A lack of personal hygienic care is an indicator of memory issues. If your loved one is forgetting to bathe and take care of themselves, this is a sign that memory care is needed. Memory care services will give them the assistance they need for their personhood.

Changes In Personality

Has your loved one grown frustrated, agitated, or angry? On the other hand, they may grow isolated, withdrawn, and lonely. These changes in personality are signs that memory care will be valuable to your loved one. When memory issues start to show, their temperament will often change as well. 

You Want To Heal Your Relationship

When signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s appear, the dynamic between you and your loved one changes. You may become their primary caregiver. When this happens, your relationship can suffer. Using memory care and assisted living will take the caregiving off of your shoulders so you can go back to being their family, friend, and loved one.

Compassionate Assisted Living & Memory Care Communities In Michigan

At Courtyard Manor, we understand memory issues affect the entire family. You deserve peace of mind that your loved ones are enjoying a high quality of life and receiving the best care. Our all-inclusive nursing care is on the floor 100% of the time, 24 hours a day. Contact us today to learn more.

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Five Fall Activities For Loved Ones with Dementia

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Fall Activities

It’s important to stay active physically and mentally for loved ones with dementia. This helps with boredom, depression, and mental decline. While autumn can be a bit chillier than summer, there are still plenty of things your loved ones can enjoy. Here are five fall activities for loved ones with dementia.

Baking

Who doesn’t love a nice fall-themed dish? Baking is a fun way to keep your loved ones with dementia mentally engaged. Plus, they get the satisfaction of creating something with their own hands. Dishes with pumpkin or apple are especially popular in the fall, and easy to make. If your loved one is unable to partake in the baking, you can bake for them and share a meal together.

Enjoy A Walk

Autumn can be especially beautiful. Taking a walk together is a great activity for physical exercise. Plus, it’s also the perfect activity to spend some time talking and enjoying each other’s company.

Crochet

If mobility is an issue, brocheting, sewing, or knitting is a perfect fall activity. It’s comforting and relaxing, and, much like baking, brings a sense of creativity and fulfillment.

Reading

The coziness of fall makes it the perfect season for reading. Moreover, reading has been shown to boost cognitive function, fight stress, and improve memory for those with dementia. This can also be done with a book club, if they are in a living facility that has one.

Listening To Music

Music is a highly effective way to boost your loved one’s mood and quality of life. Plus, it’s been shown to improve memory and cognitive function. You may even discover some music they still remember and cherish.

Peace Of Mind For Families

At Courtyard Manor, we understand memory issues affect the entire family. You deserve peace of mind that your loved ones are enjoying a high quality of life and receiving the best care. Our all-inclusive nursing care is on the floor 100% of the time, 24 hours a day. Contact us today to learn more.

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Tips for Communicating With A Loved One With Dementia

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Communication

Dementia affects so many areas of a loved one’s life. These areas include memory, communication, and even their personality. Because of this, conversing with a loved one with dementia is a challenging process. However, knowing a few things ahead of time can make a world of difference. Here are five tips for communicating with a loved one with dementia.

Establish A Positive Environment

First off, you have the ability to set the mood of the conversation. This is done through your tone of voice, body language, and facial expressions. Communication may be more difficult when a loved one has dementia, but they can still understand your actions. Essentially, you want everything you do and say to radiate warm, affectionate feelings to make them feel at ease.

Speak Simply & Clearly

Simple words, questions, and statements are highly important. Speaking calmly in easy to understand words and phrases will help them stay engaged. Another way to do this is to use “yes-no” questions. Basically, questions that are too open-ended can be confusing. 

Be Patient

Listening closely and exercising patience will go a long way in dementia communication. Sometimes, your loved one will get stuck in the middle of a thought. When this happens, it is okay to offer support and help them find their words. Ultimately, being patient will make all the difference.

Offer Distractions When Necessary

Unfortunately, there are times when your loved one’s mood will be out of your control. If this happens, it’s important to not only be patient with your loved one but also with yourself. However, redirecting the conversation or offering healthy distractions can help if they are upset. Some effective options are offering to go for a walk or getting something to eat.

Laugh

Sometimes, the best medicine is laughter. While communication is challenging, those with dementia do often still maintain a number of social skills. Because of this, they are often happy to enjoy a sense of humor alongside you. However, always remember that laughter should never be at their expense. 

Dementia Care With Compassion

At Courtyard Manor, our goal is to see a smile on your loved one’s face every day. Your family becomes our family. Our all-inclusive nursing care is on the floor 100% of the time, 24 hours a day. Visit our site today to learn more.

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The Differences Between Alzheimer’s And Dementia

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The Differences Between Alzheimer’s And Dementia

June is recognized as Alzheimer’s And Brain Awareness Month. In honor of raising awareness, we at Courtyard Manor would like to discuss an important topic. Terms like Alzheimer’s and dementia often get used interchangeably. In fact, they both refer to declining mental ability and share many similar symptoms. However, there are a number of key differences between the two. With that said, let us show you the differences between Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Alzheimer’s Is A Disease, Dementia Is Not

First off, a major difference is that dementia is not technically a disease. Unlike Alzheimer’s, dementia is referred to as a “syndrome.” This refers to a group of symptoms, but not a disease. Essentially, dementia is an umbrella term for cognitive decline that Alzheimer’s falls under. The symptoms are centered around a decline in cognitive function, including memory, thinking, language, and behavior.

Triggering Dementia

While Alzheimer’s is a disease, dementia can actually be triggered by other diseases. Diseases such as Parkinson’s and Huntington’s are common causes for dementia. As time goes on, dementia symptoms often start to show.

Treatment

Another major difference is treatment. Unfortunately, Alzheimer’s is incurable. However, dementia symptoms can be treated with some success. Medications and therapies have been shown to be effective in dementia treatment. However, these methods do not work with Alzheimer’s.

Physical Symptoms

While dementia as an umbrella term focuses on cognitive issues, Alzheimer’s goes beyond strictly mental symptoms. It can cause physical problems as well. Common symptoms include trouble walking and swallowing in later stages.

Compassion For Your Loved Ones

At Courtyard Manor, we understand memory issues affect the entire family. You deserve the peace of the mind that comes with knowing your loved ones are receiving the best care. Our all-inclusive facilities have 24-hour care with compassionate, expert staff. Your family becomes our family. Contact us today to learn more.

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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!

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5 Early Signs of Alzheimer’s

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Recognizing Early Signs of Alzheimer's

Alzheimer’s is a brain disease that causes memory and thinking skills to decline over time. It can be difficult to identify whether someone is showing signs of it. However, there are a number of ways to identify symptoms early on. With that in mind, let us take a look at the 5 early signs of Alzheimer’s.

Memory Loss

First and foremost, memory loss is an early sign. Specifically, this deals with memory loss that interrupts daily life. This includes asking the same questions over and over, forgetting events and dates, and more. Essentially, if they are having trouble remembering things they normally did not need help with it can be considered an early sign of Alzheimer’s. 

Trouble Speaking Or Writing

Another early sign may also be trouble conversing. As a result, they may struggle finding the right word. Additionally, joining and keeping caught up in a conversation can be difficult. 

Misplacing Things & Problems Retracing Steps

A person with the early signs of Alzheimer’s will often place things in unusual places. Consequently, they struggle to remember where they placed them. Finally, it becomes difficult for them to retrace their steps and figure out where those items might be.

Decreased Judgement & Reasoning Skills

Decision-making can be a challenge and an early sign of Alzheimer’s. The person may show a lack of attention when dealing with money, hygiene, and more. Essentially, their judgement and reasoning skills will start to falter.

Changes In Mood & Withdrawal

A person with the early signs of Alzheimer’s may experience a change in their mood and personality. As a result, they may become depressed, anxious, or confused. Additionally, this can cause them to withdraw socially as they have trouble emotionally and conversationally.

Quality Of Life You Can’t Find Anywhere Else

At Courtyard Manor, we understand memory issues affect the entire family. That’s why we offer 24-hour on-floor nursing care. We give your loved ones quality of life and compassion you cannot find anywhere else. Are you ready to give yourself and your loved ones the peace of mind they deserve? Contact us today.

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5 Safe And Healthy Summer Activities For Seniors

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Summer Activities

Staying active is an important part of aging healthily. Partaking in healthy activities is great not just for physical health, but mental well-being as well. The social benefits can even prolong life. With summer just around the corner, it is a good idea to have some activities ready to go. Let us take a look at these 5 safe and healthy summer activities for seniors. 

Have A Picnic

Getting outside is especially important. Sunlight is an excellent source of Vitamin D, which helps fight a number of issues including anxiety, depression, and osteoporosis. The sunlight and nice weather is a great way to stay active and keep spirits high.

Board Games And Puzzles

Board games are a fun and easy way to socialize, have fun, and keep seniors’ minds active. Additionally, studies show that mental activity may even help dementia. 

Crafting

Another one of the 5 safe and healthy summer activities for seniors is crafting. Art therapy can be very beneficial for seniors. Working on a craft gives them a creative outlet to express themselves. In addition, it keeps their motor skills healthy. This is also a great way to socialize.

Visit Sporting Events

This is another fun activity that helps seniors get their Vitamin D from sunlight. Also, it can be a great way to connect with family and friends. Watching sporting events that their grandchildren are playing in can be a great way to stay social and active.

Reading A Book

Reading can also be done outside to enjoy the fresh air and sunlight. Moreover, joining a book club can give seniors some wonderful socializing. Reading also keeps their mind active and has mental health benefits.

Compassionate Assisted Living

At Courtyard Manor, we give your loved ones a quality of life you can’t find anywhere else. With 24-hour on floor nursing care, you can rest easy knowing your loved ones are in a safe and caring environment.

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5 Benefits Of Memory Care For Seniors

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If you have a loved one with memory care needs, it is easy to feel hopeless and stressed. Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and brain injuries all severely affect memory. It is difficult to watch a loved one have their memory affected. However, there are steps that can be taken to alleviate that difficulty. Memory care can go a long way to make a difference through a number of ways. Let us take a look at 5 benefits of memory care for seniors.

Engagement

Memory care helps a great deal with engagement. In truth, a lack of engagement and social interaction can cause Alzheimer’s and Dementia to worsen. By having regular engagement and social interactions, however, your loved one can avoid this. This is especially valuable with professional 24-hour care. Stimulating the brain with activities and engagement leads to a more fulfilling life for your loved one.

Physical Safety

Seniors with memory-affected conditions can easily become lost or confused. In these moments, they may wander and find themselves in potentially harmful situations. Because of this, memory care is especially important. By having memory care professionals available at any time, your loved one will always be safe.

Quality Time

If you are the primary caregiver for your loved one that is affected by memory conditions, it can be difficult to find quality time with them. Your time and energy goes into caring for and protecting them. Due to this, it can be hard to find time to spend uninterrupted, quality time with your loved one. With memory care, you can step away from the caregiver role and become the family or friend you both need.

Daily Tasks

Memory care also helps greatly with daily tasks. This takes care of things such as doctors bills, medication, food, and more. With memory care, you no longer need to worry whether your loved one is receiving food or cleaning. Their daily tasks and needs are taken care of.

Peace Of Mind

Peace of mind is one of the best of the 5 benefits of memory care for seniors. At the end of the day, you deserve to have peace of mind regarding your loved ones. Memory care offers this for you and your loved ones. Truly, knowing your loved one is getting the best possible care is an invaluable gift. 

All-Inclusive Care

At Courtyard Manor, we know memory issues affect the entire family. Additionally, we know that no two situations are the same. That is why our memory care facilities have 24-hour nursing care for your loved ones. Our philosophy, training, and engagement focuses on meeting your loved one where they are in the moment. We go above and beyond to give your loved ones the compassion, joy, and comfort they deserve.

Do you want to learn more about our many services, including memory care? Contact us today.

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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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