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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

Families of people suffering from memory-related conditions often have difficulties adjusting when it is time to move into memory assisted living Ashland NE. This is also a time when effective communication is vital for individuals with memory-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. Thus, effective communication becomes very important for the caregiver and that of their loved ones.

 

Effective ways to communicate with loved ones with memory loss

 

If you are interacting with a person with dementia or Alzheimer’s, you need an effective style of communication. Since it is often considered an emotional disease or condition, a common mistake can affect the mind of the victim and lead to confusion discomfort to abnormal behaviors.

 

There can be complications when people communicate in tensions can quickly rise, especially when a person has Alzheimer’s or dementia.

 

Things that you can do

 

• Instead of arguing or blaming the person, you have to accept the blame and acknowledge his or her feelings
• Do not remind him or her about the memory loss or test their memory, rather provide reassurance by speaking slowly, through repetition and brief explanations
• Avoid taking their behaviors personally, but be patient and go with the flow instead
• Do not ask any open-ended questions, but rather give straightforward options
• Avoid confronting, but be forgiving and leave the room for a moment if things get heated
• Avoid using the word ‘but’, instead use ‘nevertheless’ or ‘however’

 

Guidance on handling challenging behaviors in Memory Assisted Living Ashland ME

 

Challenging behaviors can be managed by recognizing and responding to the needs of the patient. But in some cases, it can be difficult to handle changes in behavior happening so suddenly. Thus, you might want to seek professional help to manage this effectively.

 

Managing sudden behavior changes

 

The behavior of a loved one in memory assisted living in Ashland NE can sometimes change suddenly due to a physical health problem, such as a urinary tract infection, pain, or constipation causing him or her to be more distressed, confused, or agitated.

 

In situations like this, it is always good to ask for his or her doctor to visit to check for any physical problems and perform some tests. Note that depression can also contribute to behavioral changes that can be managed with medication or natural remedies.

 

Steps in managing behavior changes

 

1. You can always look at the problem from different angles, including the cause of the problem, such as another person, environment, or situation.
2. Find out how the person is feeling when having these behavioral changes, such as getting emotional, depressed, or delusional.
3. Identify if the person is reacting to anything knowing that they can no longer do something they used to enjoy or something happening that is unpleasant to them.
4. You can develop a strategy or plan with the people you spend time with because this can make a big difference to his or her behavior.
5. The first time you attempt to fix this situation might not work. So it is best not to get frustrated because your approach would eventually work after a few more tries.

You can record your progress in managing behavior changes of your loved one in memory assisted living Ashland NE. Find out which approach works best so that you can share this with others who might look after the person, including his or her family, friends, or social care professionals.

 

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

Moving to a senior living community is a significant milestone that requires careful planning and consideration. It’s embarking on a new chapter in life for the elderly, after all. Whether you’re a senior making this change or a loved one assisting in the process, a seamless move-in experience is essential for a smooth and stress-free transition.

 

Understanding Assisted Living

Assisted living is a specialized residential option designed to provide support and assistance to seniors who may need help with activities of daily living (ADLs) but do not require the intensive medical care provided in nursing homes. It bridges the gap between independent living and more intensive care options, offering a balance of independence and assistance tailored to the unique needs of each resident.

 

Assisted living provides services and support in these areas:

Personal Care Assistance

This covers common activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, walking, dressing toileting, and bed transfer.

Meal Services

Nutritious meals are often prepared and provided, considering dietary restrictions and preferences.

Housekeeping and Laundry

Assisted living facilities usually handle housekeeping and laundry services, ensuring a clean and comfortable living environment.

Depending on the needs of the seniors, assistance with managing medication and promoting social and recreational activities will also be provided.

What are the benefits of assisted living?

Beyond getting a helping hand, assisted living allows seniors to:

• Maintain a sense of independence while receiving the necessary support to enhance their quality of life.
• Have social interaction and engagement that reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.
• Live in a secure environment with staff available 24/7 and safety features in place.
• Offer relief for family caregivers, offering peace of mind knowing their loved ones are in a supportive and caring environment.

More importantly, services provided are tailored to the individual needs of residents, allowing personalized care plans.

 

Move-in Checklist | Senior Living Ashland NE

Ready to move to a senior living community? Here’s a checklist to guide you through a stress-free move.

Prioritize healthcare setup

Moving to a new location involves careful consideration of your healthcare requirements. Begin by researching local healthcare providers, clinics, and hospitals in your new community. Initiate the transfer of medical records and prescriptions well in advance to ensure seamless continuity of care.

Research and compare movers

Choosing the right moving company is pivotal for a successful relocation. Conduct thorough research, read reviews, and obtain quotes from multiple moving companies. A well-researched choice ensures a smooth and stress-free moving experience.

Pack in an efficient and organized manner

Before you start packing, declutter your home by getting rid of items you no longer need. Donate, sell, or discard unnecessary belongings to lighten your load and simplify the packing process.

Invest in quality packing materials and label boxes with their contents and destination rooms. Pack essential items separately for easy access upon arrival. Take the time to plan and pack systematically to minimize unpacking chaos.

Work out the logistics

The logistical aspects of moving can be overwhelming, but careful planning can streamline the process. Create a comprehensive checklist that includes hiring movers, updating your address, handling paperwork, and managing bills and cancellations. Notify relevant parties, such as utilities and subscription services, about your move well in advance.

With a well-planned move, there will be little to no disruption when transitioning to Senior Living Ashland NE. By addressing healthcare needs, choosing a reputable moving company, packing efficiently, and managing logistics meticulously, you can make your move a smooth and positive experience.

 

Looking for excellent senior living 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

Creating Festive Communities in Senior Housing

As the holiday season approaches, the atmosphere in senior housing becomes infused with joy and warmth. While the idea of spending the holidays in senior housing may bring about a mix of emotions, it’s essential to highlight the numerous opportunities for creating festive and meaningful experiences within these communities.

Community Celebrations and Events in Senior Housing

Senior housing facilities often organize a variety of holiday-themed events and activities, providing residents with opportunities to come together and celebrate. From tree-lighting ceremonies to festive dinners and cultural performances, these events foster a sense of community and help residents build connections with their neighbors.

Decorating Shared Spaces

Encouraging residents to participate in decorating communal areas is a wonderful way to infuse the holiday spirit. Residents can collaborate on crafting decorations, trimming trees, and adorning common spaces with festive lights and ornaments. This collaborative effort not only brings joy to the residents but also creates a vibrant and festive atmosphere for everyone to enjoy.

Nurturing Connections and Combating Holiday Loneliness

Spending the holidays in senior housing provides an opportunity to forge new connections, combat loneliness, and create lasting memories. It’s crucial for both staff and residents to actively engage in initiatives that promote a sense of belonging and camaraderie during this special time of year.

Family Involvement and Visitation Plans in Senior Housing

Many seniors in housing facilities may have family members living at a distance. Encouraging family involvement and facilitating visitation plans during the holidays is essential. Whether through in-person visits, video calls, or festive care packages, connecting with loved ones helps residents feel cherished and connected to their broader support network.

Volunteer Programs and Intergenerational Activities

Senior communities can collaborate with local schools, youth organizations, or volunteer groups to organize intergenerational activities. From holiday-themed crafts to musical performances, these interactions bring joy to the seniors and provide valuable opportunities for meaningful connections.

Personalized Celebrations

Recognizing and respecting the diverse cultural and religious backgrounds of residents is crucial. Staff can create personalized celebrations that honor the traditions of each resident. This can ensure an inclusive and culturally rich holiday experience for everyone.

Senior Housing Wrap-Up

In conclusion, spending the holidays in senior housing offers a unique and festive experience for residents. By fostering a sense of community through shared celebrations, encouraging connections with family and friends, and implementing initiatives to combat loneliness, senior housing facilities can create an enriching environment where residents can embrace the holiday spirit and create cherished memories. The holidays are a time for joy, connection, and reflection. Senior communities play a vital role in ensuring that residents can enjoy the season to the fullest.

 

Looking for excellent 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