Helpful Privacy Tips for Seniors in Assisted Living

Are you moving to assisted living? No matter where you are, it’s important to protect your privacy. Seniors are at higher risk for breaches in privacy, including sensitive health data. Follow these tips to help protect your private information in assisted living.

Understand Your Rights

You might know about patient privacy in a healthcare context. However, privacy rights extend into assisted living and other senior communities as well. Each resident has the right to dignity and privacy, both of which are essential for a high quality of life. 

Staff and Confidential Information

Confidentiality is one of the most important aspects of privacy in assisted living. This means that staff members should never share your information with anyone else. The only exception to this is if you’ve approved a loved one to gain access to your information. 

Access to Your Records and Documents

Along with confidentiality, you should have access to any of your records or health plans upon request. Assisted living communities are required to keep records accessible to residents. You deserve to know what’s involved in your care. 

Learn About Privacy Differences: Assisted Living vs. Independent Senior Living

Some senior living communities are designed to help residents with activities of daily living. This means you may not get the same privacy as a resident in an independent living community. However, staff members should still follow confidentiality rules. 

Assisted living communities might monitor residents for safety and health reasons. There may be cameras in common areas and locks on doors. This is for your protection, not to infringe on your privacy. 

Other than monitoring you for safety and security, assisted living communities should not invade your privacy. You should still be allowed to have private visits with loved ones and plenty of alone time when you want it. 

In independent senior living, residents naturally have a higher degree of privacy. You can expect your personal activities and residence to be completely private. This means no one else should have access to these pieces of information and places without your permission. 

Know That You Can Maintain Personal Autonomy

You have the right to personal autonomy, regardless of age or medical status. This means you should have a say in all of your care decisions. Know that you have the right to refuse any activity or amenity at any time, and staff members should back you up on this. 

Autonomy is the most important part of your privacy as an assisted living resident. Ensure your loved ones are familiar with staff members so that you have extra support on the outside. 

Every Assisted Living Resident Has the Right to Privacy

Privacy and dignity are your rights as a resident in assisted living in Phoenix. Know the laws in your state and practice speaking up for yourself. You don’t have to give up your privacy to enjoy the benefits of assisted living.

Finding a Gift for a Loved One with Memory Impairment

If you want to get something special for mom or dad or another loved one suffering from Alzheimer’s or a dementia-related disease, it can be challenging to figure out a good gift. This is where the Internet can lend a hand with a range of items designed to enhance your loved one’s quality of life. 

Dementia care specialists say it can take a little more time and some creativity but there are many great gift ideas. One idea is personalized gifts or memory-filled ones. A photo album filled with pictures of the person surrounded by people important to them, or a picture book from a place they loved to visit. A coffee mug personalized with a photo or a cozy throw filled with favorite family pictures are also good ideas. 

Music from their younger years, show tunes and old movies are sure to make them smile and can be a good way to spend an afternoon together enjoying their new gifts. Coloring books filled with pictures of things they love such as animals or flowers, and a set of new markers or crayons, and easy-to-do crafts are also fun to do together.  

Another item targeted to people with Alzheimer’s or dementia is therapy stuffed animals.  Designed to meet their special needs, one example is a teddy bear that comes with a few classic songs but has room to load a person’s favorite tunes (up to a 1,000 songs). Cuddly robotic cat and dog stuffed animals have a calming, soothing effect on people in the middle and later stages of Alzheimer's disease. Research shows they can help the person remember a time in their life when their purpose included caring for others.  

Along with assisted living, MorningStar of Albuquerque provides compassionate and loving care to those suffering from memory impairment. The Reflections Neighborhood is meticulously designed to accommodate the special needs of memory care residents, allowing them as much independence as possible.   Our specially-trained care team understands that the essence of the person still exists despite the memory loss, and will strive every day to connect with and nurture that essence. Please contact us or visit our website for more information about exceptional senior living in Albuquerque.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Albuquerque offers.

MorningStar at RidgeGate Offers Specialized Memory Care

If mom or dad, or another loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease, you want the finest care for them. MorningStar at RidgeGate is just such a place. As part of the MorningStar Senior Living Company, founded in 2003, MorningStar at RidgeGate is committed to using best-practices including Montessori-based therapy techniques to provide comprehensive, compassionate care for our residents.

We understand the challenges a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease presents for the whole family and believe it to be an honor and a calling to help. MorningStar’s philosophy and approach to memory care is encompassed under the expanse of possibilities we call “Lavender Sky.”  By utilizing our extensive understanding of dementia, it provides the tools to empower and equip our team to advance our vision and mission of providing a more insightful way to support the memory-impaired and their families.  

All our employees receive training in the program as we understand knowledge provides greater wisdom and insight into interacting with our most tender residents.  The eight hours of training includes the pathology behind the disease as well as communication techniques, and holistic solutions to dining, safety and challenging behaviors.  

Moving a parent into a memory care community is often a difficult decision to make. However, once a family chooses MorningStar, we are there every step of the way to walk your loved one through the transition. Our first step is to get to know all we can about the individual such as their background, talents and personal preferences by using a tool called “To Know Me is To Love Me.” From there, we create a specialized, individualized service plan in accordance with the family. 

Along with memory care, MorningStar at RidgeGate offers independent and assisted living in the Highland Ranch, CO area with a broad range of amenities, wellness programs and activities.  We also welcome residents for short-term stays (30 days or less) for those times when a senior’s regular caregiver needs a vacation or when recovering from surgery or an illness. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar Senior Living’s communities across the U.S. have a passionate commitment to serving seniors, earning a reputation for satisfaction that is second to none. If you are looking for the finest memory care, independent living or assisted living Highlands Ranch, CO and the surrounding area offers, we encourage you to consider MorningStar at RidgeGate. 

A Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease is Hard on the Entire Family

When a person is told they have Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, it is extremely difficult not only for the individual but the entire family. As it generally comes after the person as well as their family and friends have noticed a marked change in the individual, it is tough to hear but not always a huge surprise. Now the question becomes “what next?”

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) offers families guidance with a list of helpful informative and supportive resources including the Alzheimer’s Association and the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America. Check if they have local chapters where you can get in-person support, meet others in your same situation, and get involved in fundraising activities. You can additionally reach out to local community centers and hospitals to find out if they have Alzheimer’s educational programs. 

NIA reminds families to keep up with regular medical checkups as they are important for a person with Alzheimer’s and should include their primary healthcare provider and specialists such as a neurologist, neuropsychiatrist and geriatric psychiatrist. Also, ask your medical team if there is a memory disorder clinic nearby. 

Another suggestion is to plan ahead both financially and for long-term care while the person can still have some valuable input. Finally, experts say to make sure you get the proper help to ensure the person’s wellbeing and safety. 

At MorningStar of Santa Fe, we know the pain and devastation families go through with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s or another dementia-related disease.  Our Reflections Neighborhood is staffed by a dedicated, compassionate team and provides a safe, loving home for seniors with memory loss.  If you are looking for trusted senior living in Santa Fe, NM, please visit our website for more information.

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for family satisfaction second to none. Contact us for more information about the finest senior living Santa Fe, NM has to offer.

Source: nia.nih.gov/health/next-steps-after-alzheimers-diagnosis

Can the End of Daylight Savings Time Affect Seniors?

Older adults are more vulnerable to changes in routine and sunlight. This means that Daylight Savings Time can be particularly tough in senior living communities in Phoenix. With preparation and guidance, seniors can successfully navigate the end of Daylight Savings Time. Here’s what you should know about time changes and senior living. 

How Daylight Savings Time Interrupts Your Circadian Rhythm

Your body has an internal clock that’s known as your circadian rhythm. Your circadian rhythm depends on sunlight and darkness to tell what time of day it is. 

When you’re in darkness, you should feel more tired and be able to fall asleep faster. During daylight, you might feel more energized and active. Daylight Savings Time can interrupt this precious rhythm. 

What Is Daylight Savings Time, and How Does It Work?

Each spring, we set our clocks forward to combat shortened daylight hours. This means everyone loses one hour of sleep. In the fall, we set our clocks back to the original time (“falling back” one hour). These changes can throw seniors off and make routines much more difficult. 

Changes in Sunlight and Darkness 

When Daylight Savings Time ends, you get an extra hour of sleep. However, this means you’re exposed to darkness for longer periods. You have to wait longer for sunlight to appear. This can keep you tired and sluggish in the early morning hours, especially if you have a set morning routine. 

Mood Changes After Daylight Savings Time Ends

Older adults might experience feelings of depression, irritability, anxiety, and apathy after Daylight Savings Time ends. It’s important to be prepared for these mood changes. They aren’t permanent, and as your body adjusts to the new hours of sunlight and darkness, so will your brain. 

Try to make time for extra self-care as the end of Daylight Savings Time approaches. Doing activities that make you happy will help combat the mood changes that accompany the time change. 

Difficulties With Routines

In your post-retirement years, you probably rely on routine to keep you organized and active. The end of Daylight Savings Time can change your morning routine and leave you feeling scattered. 

Expect some difficulty completing your normal rituals for a few weeks after the time change. You will slowly adjust to the longer hours of darkness and fall back into your active morning routine. 

For seniors with cognition and memory challenges, the time change can be especially troublesome. If you care for a loved one or resident with memory problems, expect some pushback while carrying out daily routines after Daylight Savings Time ends. 

Work With Your Body to Combat Time-Change Problems

As a senior, you might have to put more effort into maintaining normalcy after Daylight Savings Time ends. Rest assured, knowing you’ll be back to normal soon and can enjoy your routines again!

Seniors Can Help Protect Themselves From a Fall

Many of us have heard about or know a senior who has had a fall that led to a serious injury. Each year statistics report one out of every five falls causes an injury, such as broken bones or a head injury; and approximately 3 million older adults are treated in emergency departments for a fall injury. Falls result in over 32,000 senior deaths each year. 

The Harvard Medical School reports the highest risk factor for a fall is a previous fall. While a senior may have fallen or tripped and not thought much about it, as they only twisted an ankle or didn’t sustain a serious injury, the event may be a precursor to another fall. 

There are things seniors can do to protect themselves from a fall and it starts by being aware of any risk factors you may have including vision and hearing problems, which can make a fall more likely. Experts say stiff joints can hamper your gait and balance and make it easier to fall, as do certain medications for blood pressure and antihistamines. As a deficiency in vitamin D decreases a person’s bone mineral density and strength of the bones, it too can cause instability and raise the risk for a fall. Experts report even something as unrelated as a head cold or the flu can cause dizziness and increase your risk.  

To help boost core strength and improve balance, talk to your healthcare provider about the best type of exercises to do. Other steps to decrease the likelihood of a fall are to keep moving to loosen stiff joints and help build strength, wear sensible shoes and remove home hazards. Finally make sure your home has plenty of good lighting.  

MorningStar of Albuquerque is an assisted living and memory care community on the city’s northeast side with beautiful surroundings and luxury amenities.  Along with many support services, we provide the physical environment to ensure older adults live as safely and as comfortably as possible.  Suites are equipped with handicap-accessible bathrooms and each unit has an emergency call system. We also offer a complement of wellness programs and activities to help residents stay engaged physically, intellectually, spiritually and socially.  Visit our website to see what sets our community apart from other senior living in Albuquerque and why MorningStar is a great place to call home.

MorningStar has considered it a privilege and responsibility to “cast a new light” on senior living, inspired and empowered by our unique mission: to honor, to value, to invest. Our passionate commitment to serving seniors has proudly earned us a reputation for family satisfaction second to none. Contact us for more information about the finest senior living Albuquerque, NM has to offer.

It is Possible to Grow Older Without a Significant Decline in Health

If we are lucky, we are all going to get a lot older, but experts say with a few common sense adjustments, we can live healthier, more productive lives than our grandparents or even parents. Moreover, it is worthwhile to plan for a long life as mortality rates have risen from just an average age of 47 for men and women in 1900 to older adults routinely reaching their eighties, nineties and beyond. 

In fact, studies report it is possible to grow older without a significant decline in health. Linda Fried, dean of the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health and director of the Robert Butler Columbia Aging Center, says, “The idea that living longer necessarily means enduring significant declines in health has changed in the last two decades.” She adds, “It’s possible to increase your health span as long as your life span. Some decline in health and function is inevitable. But the image that older life is about decrepitude turns out not to be right.”

Spending decades working in the field of gerontology, Harry "Rick" Moody reminds older adults that even if they are living with health challenges, they should not lose sight of the opportunity for living a meaningful and positive life. He says at 76 his hearing is bad but he compensates by wearing a hearing aid. His advice is "If you compensate, you’ll age successfully. If you don’t, you won’t age successfully.”

Strategies for healthy aging include not limiting yourself by saying you are too old, to keep learning, keep exercising and to eat a healthy diet. Staying close to family and friends, getting enough sleep and using adaptive skills to compensate for things like short-term memory loss and a general slow-down of cognitive and physical abilities are also part of the process.  

At MorningStar at RidgeGate in Lone Tree, CO, our goal is to promote physical, intellectual, spiritual and social wellbeing so residents can lead healthy, engaged lives. Along with independent living and assisted living, we also provide compassionate, holistic memory care to those suffering from Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Please contact us or visit our website for more information.

MorningStar is guided by a culture rooted in our mission of honoring God, valuing seniors, and investing in our team, which allows us to deliver services with warmth, sincerity and depth of purpose. We have built a reputation for creating homes filled with an atmosphere of love and community. Please contact us to learn more about exceptional independent living, assisted living or memory care. 

Source: health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/how-to-age-well