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When integrated into an existing or new design, biophilic design improves the aesthetic appeal and well-being of the occupants. In memory assisted living biophilic design promotes better physical and mental health. This design approach offers seniors more opportunities for relaxation and connection with nature. Using natural light, indoor plants, views of nature, natural materials, or water features can improve mood, provide a sense of calmness, and create a natural connection with nature.

What is Biophilic Design?

Biophilic design is a design approach that integrates the natural environment and patterns into a design. Based on the fundamental connection of humans to nature, this design philosophy primarily promotes physical and mental relaxation, enhances productivity, and improves overall well-being.

The biophilic design concept aims to recreate the healing power of nature within indoor spaces, including memory assisted facilities, to evoke a sense of peace and tranquility, reduce stress levels, and enhance indoor air quality.

Bringing nature indoors, such as green spaces and outdoor views, encourages residents to be in tune with nature and alleviates cognitive fatigue. Biophilic design is a holistic approach to catering to a better and healthier environment for occupants and carers for mental and physical needs. With this therapeutic approach, memory assisted living facilities are physically remodeled, creating a happier and healthier environment for all occupants.

The Healing Power of Nature in Memory Assisted Living

Nature can affect our mood, health, and overall immune system. Backed by research, nature has a healing capacity widely proven during the pandemic when almost everyone’s mental health was affected.

Spending time outdoors or with nature is said to be a key factor in enabling people to cope with challenges. Fresh air has long been a game changer for feeling better physically and mentally. Natural views of the environment can significantly reduce stress and anger while at the same time lowering blood pressure and muscle tension.

In addition, nature helps humans cope. According to a classic study of patients conducted by physician Robert Ulrich, patients with views of trees tolerated pain better and spent less time in the hospital. Whether it is the warmth of the sunlight, fresh air, or the rhythmic sound of the waves, nature soothes pain.

Nature is known to restore the body and mind remarkably. Fresh air, lush landscapes, and vibrant colors outdoors can reduce stress and fatigue. Time well spent with nature can give renewed energy, restore the spirit and mind, and improve overall well-being.

The Benefits of Biophilic Design in Memory Assisted Living

Many people have biases with healthcare facilities like memory assisted living because of their association with old age, memory loss, dementia, incapability of contributing to society, and more.

Staff and carers also face challenges in the workplace. Residents, on the other hand, find the usual corners dull.

This is where biophilic design comes in. With increased connectivity to nature, everyone benefits from its healing powers.

Biophilic design in senior housing can help improve cognitive function. Exposure to light is known to enhance mental clarity, a therapeutic approach for those with age-related cognitive decline.

Biophilic design in senior housing can entice residents to interact and socialize, as outdoor gardens, walkways, or fountains provide an opportunity to lounge, connect, and foster a sense of community.

Biophilic design in senior housing can improve indoor air quality, which benefits residents with respiratory issues. In addition, access to outdoor spaces can provide opportunities for seniors to do light physical activities like walking for improved health.

 

Looking for excellent senior care in Nebraska? Click here to lear more about Richmont Senior Living!

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Richmont Senior Living is proud to serve Ashland, NE and the surrounding cities: Memphis, Springfield, South Bend, Greenwood, Murdock, Waverly, Murdock, Ithaca, and Chalco

Medical errors and accidents within care facilities cause serious injuries and even death. Caring for patient’s safety and well-being is paramount, especially if they face the challenges that come with memory impairments. The Patient Safety Awareness Week reminds facilities for Alzheimer’s, caregivers, staff, and residents’ families to implement innovative strategies to create a supportive and safe environment for those affected by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

With these in mind, we join the community in celebrating Patient Awareness Week, promoting the best practices of care, and fostering Alzheimer’s facilities to benefit residents and their workforce.

What is Patient Safety Awareness Week?

Patient Safety Awareness Week is a worldwide annual in the healthcare community. This yearly event is focused on raising awareness about patient safety among healthcare professionals and promoting the best patient care practices.

Every March, different activities encourage everyone to learn about the importance of patient safety. The week-long event provides opportunities for healthcare organizations and professionals to assess their practices and identify areas for improvement.

Seminars, workshops, educational campaigns, and various programs are organized for healthcare professionals and families to participate in. These serve as opportunities for families and patients to raise concerns about patient care and safety.

With these avenues calling for open communication, organizations, healthcare workers, patients, and families can work together and develop strategies for continuous improvement, training, and learning for the overall benefit of the entire healthcare system.

Patience Safety Awareness Week is a yearly collaboration of healthcare organizations, workers, and the community that spreads awareness while continuously improving patient care.

Patient Safety Awareness Week in Facilities for Alzheimer’s

Like the rest of the healthcare system, facilities for Alzheimer’s patients face challenges. Due to the complexity of the condition, patients with Alzheimer’s have unique needs that need to be addressed. From changes in behavior to physical limitations and abilities, catering to their needs and safety can be quite a task.

And with Patient Safety Awareness Week fast approaching, it is best for memory care facilities to re-evaluate the following:

Medication Management

According to a recent national survey by the University of Chicago and the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, one in five people experience medical errors in their care. Memory care facilities should employ trained staff and closely monitor medication administration to ensure safe administration.

Emergency Readiness

Facilities for Alzheimer’s must have contingency plans during medical emergencies, natural disasters, or outbreaks to ensure the safety of residents.

Anti-Wandering and Securit

Facilities for memory care patients should focus on incorporating safety measures like electronic monitoring, electronic tags, and anti-wandering systems. Patients with Alzheimer’s often show signs of confusion and an inability to recognize familiar faces.

Safety

People with Alzheimer’s are prone to wandering around the facility and to slip-and-fall accidents. Facilities for Alzheimer’s should incorporate design elements that are favorable for senior residents. Anti-slip floor materials, rails, bars, and staff supervision will ensure residents’ safety.

 

Looking for exceptional senior care in Nebraska? Click here to learn more about Richmont Senior Living!

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Richmont Senior Living is proud to serve Ashland, NE and the surrounding cities: Memphis, Springfield, South Bend, Greenwood, Murdock, Waverly, Murdock, Ithaca, and Chalco

Humans are social beings who are wired to seek companionship from others, whether it’s in the form of large group meetups or intimate one-on-one talks. Because of this, people need to have access to socialization opportunities at every stage of their life — including their golden years.

 

This can be difficult, especially for those who are in assisted living Ashland NE. But, caregivers can eliminate challenges by building good relationships with their patients.

 

The Importance of Caregiver Relationships in Assisted Living

 

To prevent accidents and injuries, seniors with reduced mobility, sensory, and cognitive functions are often advised to spend most of their time at home or in a care facility. While this might be ideal for their physical health and safety, it can be detrimental to their mental and emotional well-being. Especially, if they have limited options for socialization.

 

Fortunately, caregivers are in the right position to rectify this situation. Since they’re in contact with patients regularly, they have plenty of time to build positive relationships and meet companionship needs. This, in turn, can help minimize feelings of isolation and boost the emotional health of patients.

 

Aside from fostering positive emotional effects, caregivers who take the time to make crafts, play board games, or simply chat with patients can provide significant mental stimulation. This is crucial for seniors who can no longer engage in their favorite hobbies and might feel bored and restless.

 

How to Establish Great Patient/Caregiver Relationships

 

Practicing active listening is one of the best ways to build good relationships with your patients. With eye contact and positive body language, you’ll show respect and interest in what they have to say.

 

This makes it easier for you to build rapport since you already have a strong framework to build on.

 

It’s also recommended to focus on activities that the patient loves to do. For example, if they love reading books but can no longer do so, you might want to set aside time to read to them. If they’re avid fans of board games, take the time to play a round or two of their favorite game. By focusing on the things that interest them, you’ll provide patients with a positive experience while reducing stress and anxiety.

 

Establishing positive relationships goes a long way in helping your patients have a better quality of life. To know more about good patient/caregiver relationships, reach out to Richmond Senior Living today.

 

We’re proud providers of assisted living solutions in Nebraska. Our team of experienced and certified staff can provide the care and support that our patients need. Get in touch with us today!

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Richmont Senior Living is proud to serve Ashland, NE and the surrounding cities: Memphis, Springfield, South Bend, Greenwood, Murdock, Waverly, Murdock, Ithaca, and Chalco

Rheumatoid arthritis affects people of all ages — from teens and young professionals to elderly folks in assisted living facilities. This condition affects numerous joints in the body, making day-to-day activities more difficult and painful and eventually downgrading one’s quality of life.

 

Fortunately, while rheumatoid arthritis currently has no cure, there are numerous ways to properly manage its symptoms and limit its overall impact on the patient.

 

Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Day | What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

 

Rheumatoid arthritis, (also called RA) is a type of autoimmune disease. This means that the body’s immune system mistakenly identifies its cells as foreign matter and eventually attacks it. This attack causes inflammation to the target tissues and/or organs and, over time, causes a significant amount of damage.

 

In the case of RA, the inflammation mostly occurs in joints but can also take place in the eyes, lungs, kidneys, and heart.

 

Joint stiffness is one of the most common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. This usually lasts longer than 30 minutes, so it’s easy to single out from the normal stiffness that occurs after sitting or standing still for a long time. Aside from getting stiff, joints can also develop swelling and pain, accompanied by a low-grade fever and appetite loss along with a general feeling of malaise.

 

Over time, patients can develop joint deformity, become unsteady while walking, and eventually experience mobility loss.

 

Rheumatoid Arthritis Risk Factors

 

As mentioned above, anybody can develop rheumatoid arthritis in their lifetime. However, several factors can put you at a higher risk. One such factor is genetics; if you have a family member with RA, you most likely have a higher chance of developing this condition as well.

 

Your lifestyle can also play a huge role. Studies have shown that smoking, eating a lot of salty, oily, and overly processed foods, and experiencing too much stress can put a person at a higher risk of developing RA.

 

Low testosterone and high estrogen levels can likewise contribute to the development of this condition, which explains why women are two to three times more likely to develop RA than men.

 

Those who have developed previous infections are also at a higher risk of getting rheumatoid arthritis. This comes from the fact that, during an infection, some parts of the immune system lose their ability to deal with pathogens, triggering it to produce new antigens that cause the body to become overactive and target its cells.

 

Top Assisted Living Friendly Exercises Rheumatoid Arthritis for Pain

 

Exercising regularly is one of the best ways to manage the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Working out might seem counter-intuitive at first, especially when you feel too sore and too tiresome to move, but it helps relieve pain and reduce joint stiffness.

 

Many exercises can help manage RA, and most of them are simple and easy enough to be performed in assisted living facilities. One example is stretching, which helps improve flexibility and increase range of motion. Hand exercises are also greatly helpful since rheumatoid arthritis can minimize grip strength and make wrists and hands painful to use.

 

Yoga, tai chi, and even simple walking can improve balance and reduce stress levels and should be added to RA-related exercise routines for patients who are well enough to tackle these activities.

 

Dealing with rheumatoid arthritis isn’t a walk in the park. Fortunately, patients with this condition can take numerous steps to effectively manage their symptoms.

 

Here at Richmond Senior Living, we have a team of certified, fully trained, and experienced professionals who care for our assisted living residents with RA and help them manage the pain and discomfort they feel. Learn more about our team as well as the solutions that we offer by clicking here!

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Richmont Senior Living is proud to serve Ashland, NE and the surrounding cities: Memphis, Springfield, South Bend, Greenwood, Murdock, Waverly, Murdock, Ithaca, and Chalco

Even within the limits of Alzheimer’s care facilities, the quest of activities that stimulate memory becomes a basis for enhancing the quality of life for residents. So, memory-stimulating activities play a major role within these facilities dedicated to Alzheimer’s care.

 

There are, in fact, a ton of different activities designed to enhance recollection and promote an individual’s cognitive health while creating a supportive and engaging environment and fostering a sense of connection for individuals living in facilities for Alzheimer’s.

 

Memory Loss Signs and Symptoms

 

Symptoms of Alzheimer’s may include memory loss since it causes a slow decline in memory, reasoning, and thinking skills. Thus, it is vital that you set an appointment with your doctor the moment you notice any of the following symptoms.

 

Memory loss

 

Signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s include memory loss particularly forgetting information just learned recently. Others may include asking the same questions repeatedly or forgetting important dates or events.

 

Having trouble planning or solving problems

 

Being unable to develop and follow a plan or solve problems can be associated with Alzheimer’s or another dementia.

 

Struggle at completing familiar tasks

 

It is going to be hard to complete daily tasks for people suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s. At some point, they may have trouble organizing a grocery list or driving to a familiar location.

 

Decreased or poor judgment

 

A person who may experience changes in making decisions or judgments might be showing early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s or another dementia.

 

Withdrawal from social activities or work

A person who may experience changes in his or her ability to follow a conversation or withdraw from hobbies or social activities is already having symptoms of Alzheimer’s.

 

Mood or personality changes

 

If a person is experiencing personality or mood changes, a possible result can be getting anxious, confused, depressed, or suspicious. He or she can be showing early signs of Alzheimer’s particularly if he or she is easily upset at home with family or with friends.

 

Memory-enhancing Activities for Residents in Facilities for Alzheimer’s

 

There are a lot of ways to stimulate the brain of older people in order to improve their memory skills and mental health. With the right amount of stimulation, it can provide a greater sense of independence, take in and process information faster, be able to concentrate better and improve coordination and motor skills.

 

For residents in facilities for Alzheimer’s, here are some of the best brain games that they can play with loved ones to keep the brain active.

 

• Engaging in trivia quizzes focused on current affairs, fun facts about family members, general knowledge, history, literature, and musicals.
• Solving Sudoku puzzles is also one way of keeping the minds of seniors sharp as it preserves their logical thinking skills and their mental abilities
• Getting busy with arts and crafts can also help the mind become creative without stressing it out
• Playing word puzzles can also engage older adults as it can entertain them while exercising their brain
• Playing bingo in facilities for Alzheimer’s is another way to enhance the hearing, sight, and touch of older adults while engaging in a senior community as it encourages social interaction.

 

Several other ways to keep seniors engaged in memory-enhancing activities are also available within facilities for Alzheimer’s. Thus, it is important to know the critical signs and symptoms of memory loss to manage it in its early stages of development.

 

Looking for excellent memory care in Nebraska? Click here to learn more about Richmont Senior Living!

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Richmont Senior Living is proud to serve Ashland, NE and the surrounding cities: Memphis, Springfield, South Bend, Greenwood, Murdock, Waverly, Murdock, Ithaca, and Chalco