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Senior housing Ashland NE is a haven for senior adults because of the attention and care they receive. However, being in this place is also difficult both for the resident and the family for they lack the time and capacity to care for their loved ones.

Aside from senior housing facilities, families and concern groups contribute to the activities and programs that make the lives of residents more meaningful.

Donations and reach-out programs will always bring a smile to the residents’ faces more particularly those who don’t have visitors, phone calls, or cards during special occasions.

Why Give Back

Dedicating your time or resources no matter how small or big offers a multitude of benefits not only to the senior residents but to you as well. Giving back gives a long-lasting impact on the community and it is inspiring to see that impact that you have made

• Volunteering is a great opportunity to expand your network and build relationships with other people you meet outside of your everyday living
• Studies have shown that volunteering improves physical health, lowers stress levels, and aids in managing chronic health conditions
• Volunteer also works as a venue to find opportunities for future endeavors, change of career, or references.
• Cleaning drives or book donations enhance the lives of residents and improve the community. A strong and safe community makes for a better standard of healthier and secure living for everyone.
• Lastly, giving back teaches gratitude and kindness. Both giver and receiver find new appreciation thanks to donating.

 

How Can I Give Back To Senior Housing In Ashland NE?

Foremost, it is best to phone your nearest housing home to inquire about their volunteer and donation rules. Speak to the facility director or social worker to know what the senior residents might need.

Once you learn the donation process, you can start collecting items that seniors can use and appreciate.

• Homemade stationery makes the most affordable yet special items the elderly will appreciate. The colorful set of stationery makes memorable writing sheets when sending letters to family and friends.
• Throw blankets are great for portable comfort. Many residents feel cold this time of year and throws are the perfect size for bringing around the facility.
• Pair the throw blankets with soft socks to keep their feet warm. Always go for socks with sole grips to reduce the risk of resident falls.
• Personal care supplies like shampoo, soap, lotion, and pill dispensers are essential items.
• Books or card games will give senior residents simple entertainment that they can share with other residents.

All senior housing facilities, like Richmont Senior Living, appreciates your time and any donations provided.

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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

The last 2 years have taught us to be more patient and appreciate what we have in assisted living. What we generally take for granted are the most important treasures in life: family and health.

As we enter 2022, apart from gratitude, it is normal for people to set new aspirations, goals, and resolutions like self-improvement to spark positive change.

Residents in assisted living are not exempt from setting goals and resolutions.

While resolutions vary and some are attainable, it is a fact that most are only good at setting goals without actually fulfilling them. But since we are just halfway through January 2022, it is best to focus your energy on sticking to your New Year’s resolutions.

Choose the Right Resolution

Always choose a resolution that is doable and realistic. Do not mind peer or societal pressure. Your goal should be specific and relevant.

For instance, you can say “I want to regularly exercise” when you can specifically say “I will do routine exercise at least 30 minutes a day”. Are you doing it for the right reasons? Or just because this is what others want you to do.

Create a Plan

A decline in health is normal as people age and those who are in senior housing, so regular exercise can help delay heart problems and osteoporosis.

If you want to improve your mood, energy, and strength, choose a specific time of day when to do your exercise for example. You cannot just execute your plans when you feel like doing it.

Be Mentally Prepared

It is not going to be every day that you are inspired or motivated to stick to your resolutions. This can be challenging, but preparing for this kind of scenario will give you the power to keep moving forward.

When you encounter setbacks, avoid the temptation to break your resolutions. Instead, reassess how you can achieve your goals.

Be Patient

Understand that seeing significant results do not happen overnight. You need to make a conscious effort and dedication to see the changes.

Apart from physical strength, regardless of your age, it takes mental power to understand that goals take time. A patient attitude will help you stay on track despite the long process.

Be Positive

Positive thinking is not only important to overcome bad habits but also lowers depression levels, improves physical and psychological well-being, and increases life span.

In sticking to your resolutions, thinking positive will aid in beating challenges and the temptation to revert to old habits.

Keeping your resolutions can be difficult. Most of the time, people tend to stick to these goals only for a month or two.

However, it is important to understand that changing your behavior or achieving a goal is only possible if you will let it happen. With baby steps, a concrete plan, a positive attitude, and perseverance, you will successfully reach it.

 

Are you in search of a positive environment to set your new life in order? Click here to check out 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

As winter approaches, many people feel sadness and loss of energy due to the cold weather and lack of vitamin D. The lack of sunshine can cause one’s mood to grow dark too like irritability, difficulty concentrating, change in appetite, and tendency to oversleep. People in areas with fewer hours of daylight suffer seasonal affective disorder. For those suffering from depression due to weather changes and living in facilities for Alzheimer’s Ashland NE,  treatment is critical.

Whilst it is normal to experience mood changes during the long winter months, many overlook that senior adults are more prone to this seasonal disorder. Caregivers in memory care facilities must report any signs of depression to the facility physician or primary care provider so screening for SAD can be facilitated.

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?

Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD is a type of recurrent depression that occurs during the same season every year. People diagnosed with SAD show signs or symptoms within the fall and winter months with episodes declining during spring and warmer months.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is affecting 10 million Americans. The disorder influences your day-to-day living, how you think, and how you feel.

The exact cause of SAD is not yet determined but has been linked to the neurotransmitter serotonin, responsible for manufacturing melatonin, a hormone in the body that makes humans sleepy.

According to research, melatonin concentration drops to the lowest during the winter. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) may be genetic as some studies observe the trait to run in families.

SAD symptoms vary from mild to severe which include:

• Difficulty in concentrating or thinking
• A sudden change of appetite (carbohydrates cravings or overeating)
• Change in sleep pattern (oversleeping)
• Feeling sad, depressed mood
• Lack of motivation
• Suicidal thoughts
• Irritability
• Increased anxiety
• Fatigue
• Weight gain

How is SAD Treated?

For seniors in facilities for Alzheimer’s Ashland NE, seasonal affective disorder can be manageable. So, it is important to report sudden changes that coincide with SAD symptoms.

Treatment may vary from patient to patient, but incorporating medication, traditional therapy, and light therapy can help. In light therapy, people with SAD are exposed to artificial rays for at least two to three hours first thing in the morning.

Other treatments for SAD are the following:

• Staying active like daily walk (weather permitting), indoor activities
• Getting enough sleep during the long dark days of winter
• Eating a healthy and balanced diet, vegetables and bright-colored fruits
• Remain socially engaged
• Listening to music

How can you help a loved one with SAD in Facilities for Alzheimer’s in Ashland NE?

If you notice that your loved one in facilities for Alzheimer’s in Ashland NE is showing signs of seasonal affective disorder or is prone to SAD, it will help to:

• Schedule a regular visit. Seeing familiar faces can bring joy and comfort knowing people love and value them.
• Bring or send useful gifts that will stimulate better sleeping habits like aromatherapy items, oil, diffuser, or lotion.
• Make plans or activities specifically for the season to keep them active and engaged.
• Purchase indoor lighting for your loved one for better exposure

Learn about our Alzheimer’s care programs at Richmont Senior Living 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

You may already know that it can be exciting to be living in senior housing. But going through the long winter months can be a bit much for seniors without something to keep them entertained. That is why it makes perfect sense to keep a collection of winter must-reads.

 

Reading is actually good for you. In fact, it is among the most engaging activities that people of all ages can do. Older adults can benefit from regular reading in terms of the mental as well as the physical aspect.

 

Benefits of reading for seniors in senior housing

Improved decision making

• The negative impact of aging in decision-making can be mitigated with reading as it challenges the brain and improves analytical reasoning.

Reduces stress

• The most common issues for older adults are anxiety and stress. Seniors can deal with stress in a simple way by reading books.

Overcome depression and loneliness

• The elderly can have feelings of anxiety and stress, which can also be caused by being away from their family. Reading can help them unwind and relax, as it helps them overcome depression and loneliness.

Improved sleeping pattern

• Reading a book at night can make falling asleep much easier particularly for older adults suffering from sleep disorders or insomnia.

 

Senior Housing Winter Must Reads

 

Here are winter must-reads that can help you decide which one will suit your current reading mood, interest, and taste.

 

Matching Configurations by Kyle Keyes

• If you love science fiction adventure stories to keep you wanting more, then this book is just for you. This is the third volume of Keyes’ Quantum Roots series. But not that it also packs more humor than science, which is actually quite fun and exciting at the same time.

 

America’s Daughter by Maria Nhambu

• One thing about this story is that it is more of an inspirational memoir. The main character comes from Tanzania and travels to the U.S. while dealing with deep struggles and adjusting to American life and culture until she managed to triumph.

 

Dueling Fates by Stephanie M. Allen

• A story about royal families and magical kingdoms, the book, written by Allen, is full of adventure and action staged on stunning landscapes.

 

Samantha’s Revenge by Andrew R. Williams

• This book is about magic and suspense which is great if you love an escape to a magical world. A science-fiction story perfect for the chilly winter season.

 

Murder On The Orient Express by Agatha Christie

• A good way to spend the winter season is to read this suspense-thriller story that revolves around the mysterious death of a millionaire passenger murdered aboard the Orient Express.

 

The Shining by Stephen King

• You can expect a great horror story only from the undisputed master himself. If you really can’t deny your taste for horror stories, there is a reason why this book became one of the best-sellers of all time.

 

If you are still looking for winter must-reads for the senior housing facility, perhaps this list can suffice as your go-to corner when you don’t want to be left out in the cold months.

 

Are you looking for senior housing in Nebraska? Contact us at Richmont Senior Living today to learn about what we have to offer!

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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

Alzheimer’s is a progressive disorder where signs get worse over time. From mild memory loss at the early stage of the illness, social and behavioral skills will continue to decline until one’s ability to function independently is severely affected. The United States has approximately 5.8 million older adults with Alzheimer’s. Unfortunately, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s. However, medications, support, and services like facilities for Alzheimer’s are available to help slow progression.

The level of care provided by facilities for Alzheimer’s to their residents starts from programmed routines to lower the stress level with highly trained staff to address issues related to Alzheimer’s.

In addition to continuous care, frequent monitoring to ensure residents are getting to meals and navigate their day; memory care facilities also have alarmed doors, doors that require code, tracking bracelets, and enclosed spaces to keep residents within the facility.

 

What are Facilities for Alzheimer’s?

People with Alzheimer’s can be aggressive, incontinent, or wander during nighttime. Signs like these mean close monitoring which is a big responsibility while squeezing in personal life and career.

 

Not being able to meet your loved one’s needs at home can be frustrating and this is where facilities for Alzheimer’s come in handy. Moving into a memory care facility is the best move for you and your loved one knowing that he/she is safe and getting the best care they need.

 

A loved one that needs more supervision and help than what’s available in assisted living is best suited for memory care facilities. Mostly, people with advanced dementia struggling to perform simple daily activities need the help of memory care facilities. When signs tend to get worse including confusion, disorientation, and aggression, memory care facilities can provide full-time exceptional care.

Who Lives in Facilities for Alzheimer’s?

Seniors with Alzheimer’s live-in facilities for Alzheimer’s to get holistic care and support. Here, residents received customized dementia care plans to unique each unique and special need for improved well-being.

Level of Care Offered in Facilities for Alzheimer’s

Activities and therapies focusing on dementia residents are available depending on the resident’s preferences, past experiences, and care needs.

These personalized approaches help behavioral problems by reducing agitation, stress, or confusion. So, the care therapies below are common in memory care housing in your area:

Music Therapy

• Music therapy is backed by science, for reducing aggression and improving cognition. Listening to relaxing music or singing can provide emotional and behavioral advantages to patients with Alzheimer’s.

Occupational Therapy

• Occupational therapy help senior adults with Alzheimer’s retain motor skills and existing functions as long as possible. Therapists may include activities focused on maintaining the strengths of residents, routine exercises to improve the performance of day-to-day activities.

Pet Therapy

• The presence of pets in facilities for Alzheimer’s (usually cat or dog) can help reduce anxiety, depression, irritability, agitation, and loneliness. The affectionate nature of pets allows Alzheimer’s patients to be more engaging.

Aromatherapy

• The use of essential oils like lavender and lemon aids in decreased psychotic symptoms while suppressing agitation, irritation, anxiety, and depression.

So, for more information on the level of care, Richmont Senior Living provides for adults with Alzheimer’s, contact 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