Starting the Conversation about Assisted Living
Aging can bring challenges to our loved ones’ independence. Daily tasks that used to be simple may start to require assistance from others, and while 24-hour skilled nursing care may not be necessary, some individuals require more personalized attention that allows them to continue to thrive.
As a caregiver, simply starting the conversation about assisted living can present a difficult situation in itself. It’s not uncommon for someone to feel that their independence will be compromised if they move out of a long-time home and into an assisted living community. In fact, they often have no intention of leaving their homes despite the fact that they recognize their decline in health and their need for more daily assistance. However, including those under your care in the decision-making process allows them to feel as though they have a say in their futures, and also results in a smoother transition to their new lifestyle.
5 Signs Assisted Living Could Benefit Aging Loved Ones
Assisted living is one of the fastest-growing options for long-term senior care. In fact, research reveals that as much as 70 percent of all seniors over the age of 65 can expect to require some form of long-term care in the future. While every situation is unique, there are a few distinct signs that a move to an assisted living community is the best option for a friend or family member. These signs include:
Declining overall health. Family caregivers may start to feel the strain of their caregiving duties due to their loved one’s worsening health issues or cognitive decline, and may not even be qualified to provide the level of care their loved ones require. However, assisted living communities offer around-the-clock care from a team of compassionate professionals to ensure loved ones stay as safe and as healthy as possible.
Limited mobility. Chronic conditions like arthritis or osteoporosis can make it difficult for aging adults to move safely and comfortably around the home. They may begin living in one area of the home, rather than attempting to go up and down a flight of stairs. Or, they may rely on others to assist them with getting in and out of bed or the bathtub on a regular basis.
Safety concerns within the home. Ongoing health issues, cognitive decline and limited mobility can lead to safety concerns in the home. Perhaps loved ones are forgetting to turn off the stove after cooking a meal, or leaving the front door unlocked at night. Or, maybe a loved one recently fell over a rug and could not get up to call for help.
Signs of neglect in the home or physical appearance. When visiting aging loved ones, it’s important to take note of the state of the home and their overall appearance. If they seem frail or unkempt, it’s possible they aren’t eating nutritious foods or cannot go down the stairs to do laundry. Be on the lookout for unopened piles of mail, excessive clutter, dirty dishes in the sink, etc., as these are all signs that they can no longer properly maintain a household on their own.
Becoming isolated socially. Ask loved ones how long it has been since they visited friends or went out to lunch. It’s possible they no longer feel safe driving, and if public transportation isn’t readily available, they run the risk of becoming socially isolated. Social isolation can quickly lead to loneliness and depression, but in an assisted living community, they’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet other people who share their interests.
Many seniors report that moving to an assisted living apartment resulted in a boost in their independence, not the loss of it. As they’re receiving the right level of care and daily assistance, they have more personal freedom and time to enjoy life.
Gracious Assisted Living in Kalispell at Immanuel Living
At Immanuel Living, residents enjoy customized care and the highest level of independence possible in our assisted living apartments. Our compassionate staff treats residents like family, and we provide a variety of amazing services and amenities including three chef-prepared meals daily, housekeeping, social activities, and so much more. Contact us today to schedule a personal tour.
Exciting Things to do in Kalispell
Kalispell has a rich history that dates back to the late 1800s. Originally founded as a railroad town, Kalispell became the county seat and the trade and financial center of the Flathead Valley. Today, Kalispell is still known as the professional, medical, retail and governmental center of the region, serving around 140,000 people in Northwest Montana.
Located within a 30-minute drive of several area attractions, such as Glacier National Park, Whitefish Mountain Ski Resort, and the Bob Marshall Wilderness area, Kalispell itself offers a wide variety of things to do. Here’s a roundup of some of the most popular Kalispell attractions and activities to enjoy:
Enjoy a live performance. The Flathead Valley area in particular has been a hotbed for live performances in recent years. Kalispell’s Glacier Symphony and Chorale perform a variety of musical selections featuring both world-class and emerging artists throughout the year. In Whitefish, the Whitefish Theater Company and Alpine Theatre Project offer shows year-round for theatre enthusiasts. And in Bigfork, the Bigfork Summer Playhouse is celebrating its 58th season of live theatre and boasts an OSCAR winner, J.K.Simmons, as an alum.
Take a historical walking tour. Historical walking tours provide an opportunity to learn more about the physical evidence of Kalispell’s long history. Head down Main Street by starting at the Carnegie Library, built in 1903, and continue on to view such buildings as the Masonic Temple, Calbick Block, the Adams Building and much more. Use this handy guide along the tour for more information.
Visit the Conrad Mansion Museum. The Charles Conrad Family Estate was built in 1895 by Charles Conrad, who played an impressive role in the settlement of the Northwest and helped found the city of Kalispell. By the 1970s, however, the 13,000-square foot house was falling into disrepair, leading to the home being donated to the city by Alicia Conrad Campbell, the youngest daughter of Charles. In 1975, the mansion was placed on the National Register of Historic Places, and after restoring it to its former glory, the first tour took place in 1976 – and they’re still offered to the public today.
Stroll through a serene park. Montana has an impressive state park system, so when you’re looking to get outside for a breath of fresh air, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities to enjoy. Visit Wild Horse Island State Park to catch a glimpse not only of the wild horses, but also bighorn sheep. Or, Lone Pine State Park offers over 7.5 miles of trails and beautiful views of the entire Flathead Valley region.
Tour the Hockaday Museum of Art. The mission of the Hockaday Museum of Art is “to enrich the cultural life of our community and region, and preserve the artistic legacy of Montana and Glacier National Park.” The museum features works of art from local Montana artists such as John Fery, Leonard Lopp, Jeanne Hamilton and many more, as well as a variety of ever-changing exhibitions and events.
Play a round of golf at Buffalo Hill Golf Club. The beautiful Buffalo Hill Golf Club has been in existence since 1915, and has undergone several renovations over the years to allow it to evolve into one of the best golf courses in the state of Montana. The course will open in late April and also features several clinics so players can brush up on their skillsets before hitting the green.
Spend a day shopping in downtown Kalispell. The historic downtown Kalispell district offers a wide variety of shopping opportunities – everything from big box retail stores to charming boutiques for one-of-a-kind items. You can find sporting goods, western wear, designer jeans and even fine art. After you fill your shopping bags, fill your belly with lunch at one of the fabulous local eateries.
Active Senior Living in Kalispell at Immanuel Living
Make yourself right at home at Immanuel Living, Northwest Montana’s only life plan community offering active, residential senior living and quality health care services. Find everything you need to stay engaged in life, with a variety of services, amenities and activities available on our beautiful campus with all Kalispell has to offer right down the road. Contact us today to schedule a personal tour.
Creative Advances in Senior Care
An integral part of senior care includes therapy programs like physical, occupational and speech/language therapy. These types of therapies are vital in improving mobility, motor skills, balance and coordination, and communication. In addition to these traditional programs, more senior living communities today are also offering creative, alternative therapies like aquatic, music, art, or even pet therapy, as each provides additional benefits above and beyond what the traditional therapies can provide.
Music therapy in particular is a well-known alternative treatment for Alzheimer’s disease, shown to help seniors in the mid- to late-stages of dementia recall memories and feelings from the past. Art therapy, on the other hand, can help restore overall functioning of the body’s systems and a general sense of well-being.
Let the Rhythm Flow: Music Therapy for Seniors
The Older Americans Act of 1992 defined music therapy as “the use of musical or rhythmic interventions specifically selected by a music therapist to accomplish the restoration, maintenance, or improvement of social or emotional function, mental processing, or physical health of an older individual.”
For those with Alzheimer’s disease, music therapy helps reduce agitation, improves behaviors, and helps individuals connect to their loved ones after verbal communication skills have declined.
Music has the ability to transport us back in time and evoke feelings from the past, and music therapists report some significant results in those with Alzheimer’s disease. They’ve noted that individuals are able to recall loved ones’ names after hearing a favorite song. Plus, as they regain communication skills, they also become more engaged in life.
Along with improving memory, cognition and speech, music therapy has an impact on physical skills, too. This is not a surprise, really, because dancing goes hand in hand with the rhythm of music. Through toe-tapping and hand-clapping, the blood starts flowing, and some individuals see an improvement in their coordination and endurance.
For those with other dementias who display aggressive behaviors, listening to music can aid in relaxation and ease agitation. It can be especially helpful in preparing for bedtime or dealing with changes to their routines that would otherwise cause a great deal of stress and anxiety.
Creating Something from Nothing: Art Therapy for Seniors
Art as therapy provides individuals with a means of communicating and expressing themselves, and the benefits to seniors are numerous. The American Art Therapy Association (AATA) defines art therapy as “integrative mental health profession that combines knowledge and understanding of human development and psychological theories and techniques with visual arts and the creative process to provide a unique approach for helping clients improve psychological health, cognitive abilities, and sensory-motor functions.” According to the AATA, 78% of art therapists work with older adults on a regular basis, helping them manage pain from chronic conditions, improve cognition and increase dexterity.
Studies also suggest that seniors who participate in art therapy programs are less likely to feel depressed, visit the doctor less frequently and take fewer daily medications. Creating artwork allows individuals to expand their minds and look at things differently, which can help stimulate the senses and lead to better memory recall. Plus, art creation benefits coordination and fine motor skills, which can alleviate some of the daily chronic pain some seniors experience.
Expressing oneself through artwork can be a powerful, meaningful way to share with others. As an additional benefit, many seniors report reduced stress levels and less depression when they participate in a regular art therapy program.
Personalized Senior Care at Immanuel Living
Find professional and skillful senior care services from a team of compassionate caregivers at Immanuel Living in Northwest Montana. Our individual care teams consist of nurses, social workers, a dietician and recreation staff member to ensure all residents reach their highest physical, emotional and spiritual potential in a comfortable setting. Contact us today to schedule a personal tour.
Choosing the Right Level of Senior Care
In the past, older adults had to choose between aging in place in the home, perhaps with some in-home care or assistance from a family caregiver, or moving to a nursing home when their health begins to decline. However, senior living communities have come a long way since then. Healthy, active seniors who simply want to downsize or enjoy a retirement lifestyle could be a perfect fit for an independent living apartment. On the other hand, seniors who are experiencing a worsening in chronic conditions or a decline in overall health might be better suited to an assisted living or skilled nursing community.
Regardless of why seniors are interested in exploring new housing options, it’s important for them to assess both their current needs, as well as what services may be needed in the future in order to determine what type of community and level of care is best for them. A few of the main factors seniors should keep in mind before choosing a senior living community include:
Physical, emotional and mental health. Seniors often face physical changes such as a decline in muscle strength, endurance and flexibility, which make it difficult to maintain the home and yard, or even the ease with which they are able to move throughout the house. Plus, the loss of a spouse or close friends can take a toll on a senior’s emotional health. Without social opportunities to stay engaged in the world around them, seniors are more susceptible to loneliness which can quickly lead to depression.
Home safety. When seniors become challenged physically or mentally, safety concerns in the home tend to arise. It might become difficult to properly maintain the home and yard, or even climb stairs to get to the bedroom and bathroom. Modifications like removing low furniture and throw rugs or adding hand rails in the shower may be needed to improve safety. Plus, sometimes memory issues can also impair judgment; leaving the stove on or the front door unlocked puts many seniors’ safety at risk.
Financial situation. Sometimes, simply maintaining a home can be costly, especially when big ticket repairs like a new furnace, roof or appliances are needed. When seniors factor in those maintenance costs with monthly utility bills, medical bills, grocery bills and more, many find senior living communities may be a more affordable option for their future.
Different Types of Senior Housing Options
Continuing Care Retirement Communities/Life Plan Communities
CCRCs, or life plan communities, offer a true way to age in place with a full continuum of care for future peace of mind. In these types of senior living communities, healthy, active seniors can move into an independent living apartment or villa. As their healthcare needs change, residents have priority access to supportive services like assisted living, skilled nursing and rehabilitation, and memory care. Most CCRCs offer a wide variety of amenities to make life easy, too, like assistance with home maintenance and housekeeping, daily meals, social activities and wellness programs.
Assisted Living Communities
If the physical and mental challenges seniors face create a need for more assistance with daily living activities such as eating, dressing and grooming, an assisted living community is a senior housing option that provides a higher level of care, with medical staff available around the clock. On top of daily assistance with personal care, these communities provide amenities similar to those at an independent living community. Residents are encouraged to live as independently as possible with care customized to their individual needs.
Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation
Seniors who need a higher level of medical care or constant monitoring of chronic conditions benefit from 24-hour nursing services in a skilled nursing facility. A highly-trained medical team provides individualized care plans based on each residents’ needs.
For those who require short-term care following an illness, injury or surgery, rehabilitation centers offer post-acute care and physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapies to help seniors get back to their normal routines.
Memory Care
In a memory care community, the staff is specially-trained in the support of residents with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease in a home-like setting. Structured activities and 24-hour support are provided to ensure the best quality of life for those suffering from memory issues.
Find the Right Level of Senior Care at Immanuel Living
While some seniors may feel frustrated that they have become less independent than they’ve been in previous years, keeping an open mind to new possibilities is essential to improving overall quality of life. We invite you to discover a variety of senior housing options and senior care services at Immanuel Living in Northwest Montana, where residents enjoy a campus lifestyle with all the amenities. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a personal tour.
Is a Retirement Community Right for You?
When older adults start thinking about changing their lifestyles, one of the greatest fears many face in regards to moving to a senior living community is the thought of losing their independence. They may think they’ll be bored, that they will never get to see their friends and families, or will be stuck in their home or apartment for days on end. Or, some seniors may think that because they’re still healthy and active, there’s really no need to consider a move at this stage in their lives.
However, seniors are increasingly recognizing the benefits and peace of mind a retirement community can provide. Downsizing from their current homes helps alleviate the stress related to maintaining property, like yard work, snow removal, and even light housekeeping tasks. Plus, there’s also the fact that costly repairs on a home, such as replacing a furnace or roof, can add up quickly.
What is Independent Living for Seniors?
Today’s independent living communities offer vibrant lifestyles on a campus-like setting in spacious apartments or beautiful villas that are just waiting for residents’ personal touches. Residents may come and go as they please, taking part in a variety of wellness activities, social events or lifelong learning opportunities that improve quality of life.
Additionally, residents in an independent living community generally receive priority access to continuum of care services, like assisted living, skilled nursing or memory care. This provides reassurance that should their healthcare needs change in the future, the level of care they have access to will increase appropriately.
The Top Benefits Senior Living Communities Offer to Residents
Studies show that seniors who live in a retirement community are actually more independent than those who age in place in their homes. Making the move to a senior living community while seniors are still active and healthy is a very smart decision that can help prolong an active and healthful life. This is partly due to the amazing services and amenities residents enjoy that focus on all dimensions of wellness.
Here are just a few reasons seniors choose to move to senior living communities:
To have a plan for the rest of their lives. There’s a reason why senior living communities, or continuing care retirement communities in particular, have adopted the new name “life plan communities.” After moving into an independent living home or apartment, seniors can take comfort knowing that they’ll be offered a continuum of care should their health needs increase. This means they are able to age in place, in the same community near their friends and spouses, even if they may need a higher level of care like skilled nursing services or memory support.
To enjoy worry-free living. Along with peace of mind for their future healthcare needs, residents in senior living communities also don’t need to burden themselves with chores like cutting the lawn, shoveling snow or clearing the gutters; all tasks that can become more difficult as seniors age. They have more time to spend on doing the things they are most passionate about.
To experience whole-person wellness. Today’s retirement communities focus on keeping residents healthy in all the dimensions of wellness; physically, emotionally, socially, intellectually, spiritually and occupationally. The communities offer on-site wellness centers with fitness programs designed specifically for residents’ individual needs. Plus, because senior living communities recognize the importance of staying socially active, they provide an abundance of daily and weekly social events that not only stimulate residents’ minds, but also make it easy for them to continue to grow relationships with their peers.
For chef-prepared dining experiences. Nutrition is so important for seniors, who sometimes find that cooking for just one or two can become challenging. This often results in poor nutrition habits—or worse, skipping meals altogether. Today’s senior living communities offer delectable, healthy meals in a restaurant-style setting.
For higher levels of happiness, lower levels of stress. The amenities offered in senior living communities allow seniors the opportunity to pursue their interests, learn, grow and feel connected and comfortable in their retirement years. Without the worry of maintaining a home, plus assistance with housekeeping and even transportation, there’s no need to sweat the small stuff anymore. Plus, when families know their family members are safe, comfortable and receiving the right amount of care, they spend less time worrying about their loved ones’ futures and more time enjoying their time together.
Discover a Vibrant Lifestyle at Immanuel Living
Immanuel Living is Northwest Montana’s only Life Plan community where seniors can live independently, with a plan for their future. Discover the residential living options available, and for more information, contact us today to schedule a personal tour.
Immanuel Living residents got a little more mobile with the donation of a new transportation bus. Read the full story here.