How to Recognize the Signs of a Stroke

For seniors enjoying independent living, it’s especially important to know the signs of and appropriate responses to strokes. After all, when a stroke is occurring, it must immediately be treated. There are steps that a senior can take to help themselves while calling for aid.

What Are the Signs of a Stroke?

A stroke means that there is compromised or inadequate blood flow through the brain, so the signs will point to its malfunction. It’s helpful to remember the acronym F.A.S.T. This is because the symptoms will manifest in the face, arms, speech patterns, and the time while summoning an ambulance. 

More specifically, one side of the face will droop when attempting to smile. Only one arm will have the strength to be held up. Numbness will pervade both the face and arm, especially on one side of the body. Speech will be slurred, and the victim may have difficulty understanding anything said to them. There may also be dizziness, partial loss of eyesight or double vision, lack of coordination and balance while walking, and a sharp headache. Nausea, stiff muscles, and paralysis are possible as well. Most of these symptoms can be tested by oneself in independent living, so if you notice them happening to you, call 911 and a caregiver.

What Actions Should Be Taken for a Stroke?

independent living

Besides calling 911 and noting the time that the symptoms began so that medical personnel can more effectively treat the phenomenon when they get there, keep the victim awake. Strokes can make a person feel powerfully sleepy, but if they fall asleep, they can’t be treated in a timely manner, increasing the likelihood that there will be permanent brain damage. 

Turn the victim on their side, the head slightly elevated, and loosen any tight or restrictive clothing items. Don’t give them any food or medicine until doctors can determine what type of stroke has occurred. If necessary, perform CPR

If you’re the victim and have already contacted 911 or an independent living aide, lay on your side with your head on a pillow or another item that will keep it raised. Do your best to stay awake. Focus on staying calm until help arrives.

Why Seniors Should Read More Books

For many people, escaping into a good book is one of life’s greatest pleasures. As it turns out, reading does a lot more than just help people relax. For older adults in particular, reading has significant benefits to the brain, cognition, and overall health, and anyone committed to active senior living should include reading in their daily activities. 

What Are the Benefits of Reading?

In a recent study at Yale University, researchers found that people who read books regularly live an average of two years longer than those who don’t. Although the specific reasons for this increased longevity aren’t yet understood, evidence suggests that reading helps preserve the brain, which may contribute to a longer life span. Research indicates that people who read regularly also have fewer physical signs of dementia, such as brain lesions and tangles, as well as less mental decline as they age. This could be because reading increases blood flow to different parts of the brain. In any case, including reading as part of an active senior living lifestyle can help preserve memory, increase mental function, reduce stress, and improve sleep. 

eading isn’t only good for your brain, but it helps your social life as well. Many senior living communities offer book groups, book swaps, or trips to the library as part of their programming for the simple reason that reading can be a social activity and enrich people’s lives. A study found that belonging to social groups like a book club actually helps people live longer and healthier lives after retirement because they decrease the isolation associated with declines in cognitive function and memory. Getting together with others to talk about a book allows older adults to interact with people and gain new perspectives, while also building friendships. 

How Do You Make Reading Easier for Seniors?

Some older people stop reading as much as they age because their eyesight declines. Most libraries and senior living communities offer large-print books, but using e-readers or tablets can also help. Electronic devices allow users to adjust the setting to make the font larger, making it easier to read, as well as change background colors to increase contrast. If you have a loved one who has trouble reading, audiobooks and reading out loud during a visit can still be beneficial and help them live longer, more fulfilled lives. 

Do’s & Don’ts of Caring for a Widowed Parent

Losing a parent is never easy; it’s often accompanied by complex emotions and major life changes. In addition to your own grieving, you may start to feel concerned about your newly widowed mother or father. Here are some helpful do’s and don’ts on how to care for a parent who has lost a spouse and might need to move to an independent living community or assisted living options.

Do’s:

Allow Time for Grief

  1. Allow your parent plenty of time to grieve. Encourage them to talk about their loss with friends, family, or a counselor. Grief is a process, not an event.

Plan Engaging Activities

  1. Plan events and activities that you and your parent can look forward to. This can help combat feelings of loneliness, boredom, and helplessness. Suggest social activities, volunteer opportunities, or classes that may interest them.

Offer Practical Assistance

  1. Offer tangible assistance with daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, yard work, or running errands. These small gestures can make a big difference when your parent is overwhelmed with grief.

Share Your Grief

  1. Talk about your own feelings of grief and share memories of the deceased. This can help your parent feel less alone in their grief.

Ask Thoughtful Questions

  1. Ask specific questions about how your parent is coping with the loss, rather than just asking “How are you?” This shows you genuinely care about their wellbeing.

Honor Meaningful Occasions

  1. Plan ahead for holidays and anniversaries, and suggest ways to honor the deceased. This can provide comfort and a sense of meaning.

Explore Independent Living

  1. Look into independent living options that provide a smaller, more manageable living space, affordable costs, community resources, and opportunities for social interaction. This can help ease the transition after the loss of a spouse.

Don’ts:

Don’t Rush the Grieving Process

  1. Don’t try to “fix” your parent’s grief or rush them through the grieving process. Grief takes time and each person’s journey is unique.

Don’t Take Over Responsibilities

  1. Avoid taking over all tasks and responsibilities. Encourage your parent to maintain a sense of independence and control where possible.

Don’t Avoid Mentioning the Deceased

  1. Don’t avoid mentioning the deceased or using their name. This can make your parent feel like their loved one is being forgotten.

Don’t Neglect Your Own Needs

  1. Don’t neglect your own self-care and support needs. Caring for a grieving parent can be emotionally draining, so make sure to seek help when needed.

The most important things are to be patient, listen without judgment, and find ways to support your parent through this difficult transition. With time and compassion, you can help them through the grieving process.

5 Handy Downsizing Tips for Moving a Senior Into Assisted Living

5-Handy-Downsizing-Tips-for-Moving-a-Senior-post

As our loved ones age, there often comes a time when living independently is no longer feasible, and transitioning to assisted living becomes the best option for their well-being. While this decision can be emotional and challenging, downsizing and moving into assisted living can also be an opportunity for a fresh start and a more manageable lifestyle. To help ease this transition, here are four handy downsizing tips for moving a senior into assisted living:

  1. Start Early and Plan Strategically:
    Downsizing is a process that takes time, especially when it involves a lifetime of memories and possessions. Start the downsizing process well in advance of the move to assisted living, ideally several months ahead. Begin with a thorough assessment of the current living space and make a plan for what items will need to be kept, donated, sold, or discarded. Break the task into manageable steps, tackling one area or room at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
  2. Prioritize Essential Items:
    When downsizing, it’s crucial to prioritize essential items that will be needed in the new living space. Focus on items that are practical, functional, and have sentimental value. For example, furniture pieces that are too large or cumbersome may need to be replaced with smaller, more space-efficient options. Consider the layout and size of the assisted living unit and choose items accordingly. Remember that the goal is to create a comfortable and safe living environment while minimizing clutter.
  3. Involve the Senior in Decision-Making:
    Moving to assisted living can be a significant life transition, and involving the senior in the downsizing process can help them feel more empowered and in control of their decisions. Encourage open communication and collaboration when sorting through belongings, respecting their preferences and emotional attachments. Allow them to choose which items hold the most sentimental value and prioritize those for the move. Additionally, consider creating a memory book or digital photo album of cherished belongings that may not be feasible to bring along but can still be cherished in a different form.
  4. Have a Yard Sale:
    Hosting a yard sale is an excellent way to declutter and downsize belongings while also making some extra cash. Gather items that are no longer needed or wanted and organize a yard sale in advance of the move to assisted living. This allows the senior to pass on items to others who may find joy in them while also lightening the load for the move. Plus, the proceeds from the yard sale can be used towards expenses associated with the transition or saved for future needs.
  5. Seek Professional Help if Needed:
    Downsizing and moving can be physically and emotionally demanding, especially for seniors and their families. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed, whether it’s hiring a professional organizer, downsizing specialist, or moving company specializing in senior relocations. These professionals can provide valuable assistance and support throughout the downsizing process, helping to alleviate stress and ensure a smooth transition into assisted living.

Downsizing and moving a senior into assisted living can be a challenging but ultimately rewarding experience. By starting early, prioritizing essential items, involving the senior in decision-making, hosting a yard sale, and seeking professional help if needed, you can help make the transition as smooth and stress-free as possible. Remember to approach the process with patience, empathy, and understanding, recognizing that it’s a significant life transition for everyone involved.

Reducing Conflict Between Adult Siblings Over Senior Care

As your parents get older, maintaining their independent living takes effort from all their family members — including you and your siblings. This can be stressful and cause problems between siblings, especially if one of you thinks the other is not pulling their weight. To minimize conflict, have a plan in place for open communication. The following is a guide to communication around planning and maintaining senior independent living.

Identifying Potential Conflicts About Senior Independent Living

There are a few areas where friction is most likely. One of them is your parents’ finances. Money is a touchy topic at the best of times. Also, the day-to-day needs of your parents can become overwhelming if one person is handling more responsibility than the others. The combination of daily chores, cooking, personal care, transportation, medication management, and medical appointments is a lot to take on. If it’s not divided in a way that makes sense to everyone involved, strife can build up along with fatigue and burnout.

How to Diffuse Conflicts Over Senior Care

Independent Living

First, keep in mind that both your parents’ situation and your circumstances will change over time. You shouldn’t expect to find one permanent solution for everything; instead, agree with your siblings that you’ll revisit the arrangements regularly and as-needed. Next, be as transparent as possible with each other about what you’re doing — especially when it comes to spending money on your parents’ behalf. Finally, remember that not all of these tasks have to be assigned to one sibling or another. Assisted living, independent living programs, and senior apartments all provide care for loved ones when the load is too big for your family. You can also seek temporary respite care for a break from these duties when it’s needed.

A Guide to Senior Bathroom Safety

As we gracefully age, it’s essential to recognize the changes in our bodies and surroundings to ensure a safe and comfortable living environment. One area that demands particular attention is the bathroom, where slippery floors and hard surfaces pose potential hazards. At Red Cedar Canyon, we prioritize the well-being of our residents by providing not just a place to live, but a home where safety and security are paramount. In this guide, we’ll explore essential tips and modifications to make your bathroom a haven of safety and peace of mind.

  1. Assessing Risks: Before implementing any safety measures, it’s crucial to assess the bathroom’s potential risks. Look for slippery floors, inadequate lighting, unstable surfaces, and hard edges that could cause injury. Take note of any mobility issues or specific needs that may require accommodation.
  2. Non-Slip Surfaces: One of the most significant risks in the bathroom is slipping on wet surfaces. Installing non-slip mats or adhesive strips in the bathtub, shower, and around the toilet can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents. These inexpensive additions provide added traction and stability, minimizing the risk of falls.
  3. Grab Bars and Handrails: Installing grab bars and handrails in strategic locations can offer invaluable support for seniors with mobility issues. Place them near the toilet, bathtub, and shower to assist with sitting, standing, and maneuvering safely. Ensure they are securely mounted to the wall and capable of supporting the user’s weight.
  4. Proper Lighting: Adequate lighting is essential for seniors, especially in the bathroom where visibility is crucial. Install bright, energy-efficient LED lights to illuminate the space effectively. Consider motion-sensor lights that automatically turn on when someone enters the room, providing additional safety during nighttime visits.
  5. Raised Toilet Seats: For seniors with mobility limitations or joint pain, a raised toilet seat can make a world of difference. These seats reduce the strain of sitting and standing, promoting independence and confidence. Choose a seat with sturdy armrests for added support and stability.
  6. Shower Chairs and Benches: Standing for extended periods in the shower can be tiring and risky for seniors. Invest in a shower chair or bench to provide a comfortable seating option while bathing. Look for models with adjustable height and non-slip feet for added safety.
  7. Clear Pathways: Ensure that pathways to and from the bathroom are clear of clutter and obstacles. Remove loose rugs, electrical cords, and any other tripping hazards that could impede safe movement. Keep commonly used items within easy reach to minimize the need for bending or stretching.
  8. Emergency Response Systems: In case of an accident or medical emergency, having an emergency response system in place can be a lifesaver. Consider installing a call button or pendant that allows residents to summon help quickly if needed. Make sure all residents are familiar with how to use the system effectively.

Conclusion: With Red Cedar Canyon’s Assisted Living and Memory Care services, we understand the importance of maintaining a safe and comfortable living environment for our residents. By implementing these simple yet effective bathroom safety measures, seniors can enjoy greater independence, confidence, and peace of mind. Remember, safety is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Let’s work together to create a home where everyone can thrive, regardless of age or ability.