At American House Senior Living Communities in Michigan, we know that winter is a challenging time for many seniors. Harsh weather conditions pose various health and safety risks, especially for those seniors who are aging in place. We put together this article with 6 winter safety tips for seniors and how they can navigate the cold season with ease.

Here are our top winter safety tips, and these are valuable for both the senior and their caregivers. Winter can be a beautiful time, but it can also be dangerous if you’re not prepared.

6 Winter Safety Tips for Seniors

1. Preventing slips and falls is important year-round, but even more so when the sidewalks and roads could be slippery. For older adults who live alone, it might be wise to hire someone to clear the snow and ice from walkways before you venture out. Our residents benefit from not having to worry about snow removal.
2. Always dress for the weather. Wear layers, a hat, scarf and gloves or mittens when you go outside. When you’re indoors, keep the temperature at a comfortable and safe temperature. If you’re concerned about the cost of heating this winter season, keep dressed in layers in your home to keep you safe and warm. It's best to keep your home’s temperature around or above 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Address health concerns and take your doctor’s orders when it comes to vaccinations. The flu shot can protect seniors against influenza, which can be severe for seniors. Get regular check-ups and keep your medical appointments – especially if you have any chronic conditions.
4. Be prepared for winter storms and power outages. Stock up on non-perishable foods and foods that can be eaten without the benefit of the stove or microwave. Keep bottled water in the house and ensure your medications have been refilled so you don’t run out in a winter storm. Get some flashlights and extra batteries, and keep additional blankets handy. Prepare for a winter storm by making certain you have a list of emergency contacts who will reach out to check on you in the event of a storm. Make use of senior center programs and senior food programs year-round as a way to not only stay connected but ensure you have access to food and other resources.
5. Make sure your home is safe indoors. Avoid using space heaters, or if you must, never leave them in a room unattended. Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
6. This is great advice year-round - eat a balanced diet to help maintain your strength and energy. Don’t forget to stock up on fruits and vegetables and drink plenty of fluids.

Winter can be beautiful and enjoyable for seniors and their caregivers, as long as they’re prepared for the harsher elements of winter. When you follow these safety tips, you can reduce the health risks associated with winter and stay safe, healthy and connected with loved ones.

If you’re wondering what it might be like to not have to worry about winter weather conditions and shoveling and snow removal, consider making American House your new home sweet home this winter.

American House was founded in 1979 to enrich the lives of seniors and their loved ones in an environment that fosters independence, compassion, quality services and meaningful relationships. We provide a wide range of senior living options, including independent living, independent living with assistance, memory care services provided by a third party, respite stays and hospice in Dearborn Heights, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights and Westland.

Call an American House Senior Living community near you today to schedule a tour of one of our beautiful facilities and ask questions to help put your mind at ease if you’re considering a move for an aging loved one, spouse or even for yourself.

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We may not want to face it ourselves, and we don’t want to think about our aging family members having to leave their homes, but there may just come a time when aging in place isn’t feasible. There are 5 benefits of living at American House, but it certainly makes sense that you’d want to start researching and visiting senior living communities before an immediate need arises.

The “sandwich generation” is the term given to adult caregivers who are taking care of aging parents, holding down jobs and raising their own children. It’s a recipe for caregiver burnout, and before that happens, it’s wise to sit down with your aging loved ones and have a talk about what’s best for everyone. This is especially true if the seniors in your life can no longer perform daily living tasks or can’t keep up with home maintenance or grocery shopping.

If your aging parents and loved ones are struggling with daily tasks and it’s getting harder for you to take care of it all, consider a respite stay at one of our communities. This will give your family member an introduction to what we offer and to the amenities of our apartments. One of the biggest benefits of living in one of our communities is peace of mind – for you and the senior in your life.

There are no long-term commitments at American House. Not only do we offer short-term respite stays, but there are no long-term lease arrangements, and that’s why a senior living community like ours lets you try before deciding to move in.

There are always questions and concerns you and your family have before making a move, and we’re here to answer your questions.

What are the 5 benefits of living at American House?

1. You can rest assured that your loved one is in a safe and secure apartment. The apartments provide one-story living along with bathrooms that accommodate seniors or those with limited mobility and more.
2. You need to determine the level of care you or your loved one need and choose a senior living community that suits that. Not all communities provide personal care, and if your aging loved one requires it, you will need to understand what is offered, what isn’t and what may be required in the future.
3. Help eliminate loneliness with our social activities and outings, as well as dining room facilities, where you or the senior in your life can get involved and make new friends.
4. You can rest assured that you are moving your loved one into a community where they are making friends, enjoying themselves and are in a safe environment where there is no maintenance required.
5. There doesn’t have to be a loss of independence. Some of our residents have cars and come and go as they please. Other residents rely on our transportation options to take them grocery shopping, on special outings or to doctor’s offices. If you’re concerned about a loss of independence, talk with one of our staff when you’re on your building visit.

Prepare in advance and know what you’re looking for in a senior living community in Michigan. Here are a few questions to think about.

1. Choose a location that allows for easy visits, and if your loved one is still driving, find a community that is close to shopping centers, doctors and family.
2. Do you want to live in a large, bustling community, or are you more comfortable in a smaller, more intimate living arrangement in a smaller community?
3. What services are needed now? What services might be needed in the future?
4. What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
5. What is the cost?

We understand there can be relocation stress associated with moving from a family home and into a senior living community and do what we can to make the transition as seamless as possible.

Give us a call today, schedule a tour and consider making American House your new “home sweet home.”

American House was founded in 1979 to enrich the lives of seniors and their loved ones in an environment that fosters independence, compassion, quality services and meaningful relationships. We provide a wide range of senior living options, including independent living, independent living with assistance, memory care services provided by a third party, respite stays and hospice in Dearborn Heights, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights and Westland.

Call an American House Senior Living community near you today to schedule a tour of one of our beautiful facilities and ask questions to help put your mind at ease if you’re considering a move for an aging loved one, spouse or even for yourself.

The post 5 Benefits Of Living At American House appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.

Older adults have been known to struggle with loneliness and isolation; this is especially true if they age in place and if they’ve lost a spouse, significant other and family members. The pandemic highlighted the almost epidemic proportions of the harmful impacts that isolation and loneliness can have on the health and well-being of seniors. At American House Senior Living, we welcome older adults with activities, socialization and ways to alleviate the health issues that arise from being lonely, and we have 10 ways to help seniors beat loneliness at the holidays.

We’ve put together a list of 10 ways to help seniors beat loneliness at the holidays, but these tips and strategies are important year round. The holidays seem to highlight the fact that an older adult is alone, and they can bring up sadness and could lead to depression.

In Michigan, once the time changes, we face dark, cold and long winter days. When the snow is blowing and the sun sets around 5 p.m., it makes it difficult for older adults to muster the energy to leave the house. In fact, many seniors who are aging in place may find themselves not leaving the house for days on end.

Don’t give into the idea that because it’s the holidays you must be “merry and bright.” You, or your aging loved ones, are allowed to feel your feelings, but we do want to help you feel happier and less isolated this season.

10 Ways To Help Seniors Beat Loneliness At The Holidays

To understand loneliness and its impacts on seniors, let’s talk about it before we get into the strategies to make the holidays and the long winter days less lonely and less isolating.

1. Many older adults feel they have gone through enough change and loss, and because of that, they don’t want to give up the home they have known for years. For those seniors who age in place, their world can become very small; this is especially true if they’ve lost a loved one or their neighbors and family have moved away.
2. Losing a loved one, spouse or significant other makes the holidays not shine as brightly for many people. The holidays may also bring up memories of the time and love they were once surrounded by, and that leads to heightened feelings of loneliness.
3. Lack of mobility or lack of access to a car can mean a senior is housebound and may be reliant on the goodwill of neighbors or family members to get them to the grocery store, church or doctor’s visits.

Here are some of our favorite strategies to bring light and happiness back into the lives of your aging loved ones and help them beat loneliness at the holidays.

1. Be patient and lend a willing ear. Whether you’re in a rush or if your aging parents have told you the same story over and over, give them time to re-tell the tale. Even if the senior in your life wants to complain for a while, give them a sympathetic ear – sometimes just knowing someone is listening is good for the heart and mind.
2. Make sure you include your loved ones in holiday plans or shopping trips. Drop by and bring them a meal or a holiday treat. If possible, invite them to stay with you for a few days during the holidays. Ask them if there is somewhere they’ve been wanting to go but haven’t been able to and take them there.
3. Pull out the photo albums and look through them together. Let them reminisce, and then make sure you’re taking new photos throughout the holidays – and throughout the year – and give them the gift of a new photo album of the new memories they’ve made with you.
4. Take the pressure off your loved one who may be living on a tight budget and tell them the holidays are going to be about togetherness and making memories – not about gifts. If you give gifts, they need to make their lives more comfortable or happy, and you should give them at a time other than Christmas morning, for example. That way they won’t feel bad if they are receiving gifts but haven’t given any. Consider gifting your loved one an easy-to-use computer so you can stay in touch via video calls.
5. For loved ones who live in one of our American House Senior Living communities, urge them to get involved in our holiday activities. Feel free to join us for the many events that we open to families. Reach out to the activity director in the community where your loved one lives and ask about the events you can attend.
6. Bring a box of decorations and bring a festive flair to their apartment. Make certain none of the decorations pose a safety hazard. Plan to spend a few hours together or even a couple of weekends decorating. Turn the decorating time into a bonding activity, and pick up their favorite take-out food and enjoy a meal together.
7. Speaking of food… bring their favorite foods or meals when you visit. If your loved one’s apartment is equipped with a kitchen and they enjoy cooking, bring the ingredients for a feast or to make some cookies and spend time together cooking, baking and enjoying the foods together.
8. Get the senior in your life involved in the holiday celebrations. Ask them if they’d like to help with the planning, prep and day-of activities.

Surround them with the love of the family, and when you make them part of the prep and the overall celebration, you’ll truly give them a gift of family and feeling they’re making a difference. Give your aging loved one the gift of family and making memories this holiday season.

Give us a call today, schedule a tour and consider making American House your new “home sweet home.”

American House was founded in 1979 to enrich the lives of seniors and their loved ones in an environment that fosters independence, compassion, quality services and meaningful relationships. We provide a wide range of senior living options, including independent living, independent living with assistance, memory care services provided by a third party, respite stays and hospice in Dearborn Heights, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights and Westland.

Call an American House Senior Living community near you today to schedule a tour of one of our beautiful facilities and ask questions to help put your mind at ease if you’re considering a move for an aging loved one, spouse or even for yourself.

The post 10 Ways To Help Seniors Beat Loneliness At The Holidays appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.

At American House Senior Living in Michigan, we understand that there are fears and trepidation that you and your loved one may feel if you are thinking of moving into a senior community. That’s understandable. You’ve lived independently in your own home for decades, and there are certain aspects of your life you just don’t want to give up. We are busting senior living myths and taking away any fear you or your loved ones might have if you’re thinking of moving into one of our apartments and are not interested in aging in place any longer.

We know that for many people, senior living communities are still called – or thought of – as nursing homes. Many people use the terms “nursing home,” “senior living” and even “retirement community” interchangeably. Because of that, there are misconceptions and myths about senior living, and we hear them a lot of the time.

Busting Senior Living Myths

Let’s bust some senior living myths and take away any fear about making American House your home sweet home.

1. Senior living communities are for “old people” who “can’t get around.” That is no longer true. Sure, there are communities that cater to those individuals who need assistance with daily living or memory care, but not all senior and retirement communities do. There are senior living communities that cater to the over-55 crowd, and those individuals live in their own apartments independently.
2. You or your loved one will be all by themselves in a senior living community. That is a myth! Living in a senior community means you won’t be living in isolation. Loneliness is an epidemic in our world, and it just seems to be growing. Loneliness can lead to depression and make other illnesses worse. When you or your loved one live in an American House community, you will have access to our staff and can socialize with your neighbors. You can choose to be as involved in social activities or in eating meals together as you’d like, but know you or your loved one would never live in isolation.
3. You’re used to living independently and believe that living in a senior community means you give up all right to privacy. That is a myth. You or your loved one will live in your own private apartment. The apartments can be decorated to make it feel like home. You will have privacy and the perks of access to meals, social activities, transportation and freedom from maintenance and yard work!
4. The food is horrible in senior living communities! That is definitely a myth. We pride ourselves on the chef-prepared meals we offer. At American House Senior Living, there is a wide variety of meals, snacks, beverages and desserts to suit almost any resident’s tastes. If a resident has unique or special food needs, we can accommodate those as well.
5. If I live in a senior community, I won’t be able to come and go as I please, and I have to abide by “visiting hours” for my friends and family. That’s also a myth. You can have a vehicle and have the freedom to go where you please. You can also invite friends and family to visit you, bring you meals, help you decorate for holidays and celebrate special events.

No matter when you decide to make a move into an American House Senior Living community apartment, know that we welcome you and would love to give you a tour of our beautiful facilities. We want to bust any senior living myth you may have heard.

Give us a call today, schedule a tour and consider making American House your new “home sweet home.”

American House was founded in 1979 to enrich the lives of seniors and their loved ones in an environment that fosters independence, compassion, quality services and meaningful relationships. We provide a wide range of senior living options, including independent living, independent living with assistance, memory care services provided by a third party, respite stays and hospice in Dearborn Heights, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights and Westland.

Call an American House Senior Living community near you today to schedule a tour of one of our beautiful facilities and ask questions to help put your mind at ease if you’re considering a move for an aging loved one, spouse or even for yourself.

The post Busting Senior Living Myths appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.

If we’re fortunate enough, we will live long, happy and healthy lives. The way in which we live may change, and that’s why we want to share this vital information with you. As we age though, our bodies slow down, we may lose loved ones, and it might be harder to live in your own home and age in place. At American House Senior Living, we understand that, and that’s why we offer independence to our residents. We have tips for how seniors can celebrate independence with independent living.

As the 4^th of July gets closer, we think more about individual freedom and about being independent but in our American House communities, and independence is never far from our thoughts. Independent living at one of our communities means you or your loved one will be given the opportunity to live independently, have access to amenities and necessary services and can socialize and make friends and memories.

What is independent living? It’s senior housing that offers its residents the chance to live on their own terms for as long as they’re physically and mentally able. Residents at any of our American House Senior Living communities in Michigan enjoy independence in their own apartments. Many independent living communities let residents manage their own cleaning, cooking and laundry. There are hybrid senior living communities in which the resident can begin in an independent living apartment and move into assisted living as their needs and health change.

How Seniors Can Celebrate Independence With Independent Living

Independent living communities run the gamut from complete independence and freedom to offering community meals, activities and off-site trips. Knowing how you want to spend your golden years is one of the first steps in determining the type of independent living you are interested in for yourself or for your loved one.

When you’re looking for an independent living community, ask about services such as:

1. Health programs
2. Housekeeping and laundry services
3. Meals
4. Social and in-house as well as off-site activities
5. And more

When is it time to begin the search for independent living? Honestly, there is no time like the present. Contact one of our communities and schedule a tour. Whether you’re looking for a place to live for when you no longer want the hassle of outdoor lawn and home maintenance or you’re looking for a community of people with whom you can connect and make friends. Waiting until an emergency arises means you may not find the ideal living situation you were seeking. There is no harm in taking a tour to get a feeling for what independent living communities have to offer.

Make sure you ask, “What happens when I can no longer live safely in my apartment here?” Will you have to move out of the community? Are there on-site health providers that will allow you to continue to live in your apartment? It’s important you know your options in case the time comes when you can no longer live independently.

Here are four benefits that older adults realize when they make a move into an independent living community.

1. Many seniors find the cost of independent living more cost-effective than continuing to live in the family home and keeping up with maintenance and lawn care.
2. Peace of mind and security. Living alone may be scary for some older adults. They worry about falling and hurting themselves and having no way to summon help. They may find themselves feeling forgetful and worry about leaving a stove on, for example. If driving becomes more difficult, getting groceries or going to doctor’s appointments may become almost impossible.
3. Alleviating loneliness. When you live in an American House Senior Living community, you will find a sense of community and access to social activities and events, and you will get to know your neighbors down the hall. In addition to your neighbors, you will get to know the wonderful staff at the community in which you live.
4. Independence! Look for a senior living community that provides flexibility and freedom. You want to live on your own terms, and that could mean making the decision on when you want to eat, what time you want to go to bed or wake up and how much you want to socialize.

Keep these three items in mind when you’re looking for an independent or senior living community for yourself or a loved one.

1. What amenities do you need or want? What services are you searching for? If you’re an active older adult, look for a community that offers activities or even fitness centers. If you’re looking to make friends or a very social person, check out the activities schedule when you take a tour.
2. Where is the community located? Is it close to your family and loved ones? Is it close enough to shopping centers, restaurants or your doctor that you can safely and comfortably drive yourself?
3. The cost. What is the monthly cost, and what services are provided for that price? Set your budget so you know what you can afford before you take a tour of any senior living community. Get quotes and compare prices and benefits from more than one place before you decide.

We’d love to meet you or your mom and dad and give you a tour of one of our lovely communities!

American House was founded in 1979 to enrich the lives of seniors and their loved ones in an environment that fosters independence, compassion, quality services and meaningful relationships. We provide a wide range of senior living options, including independent living, independent living with assistance, memory care services provided by a third party, respite stays and hospice in Dearborn Heights, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights and Westland.

Call an American House Senior Living community near you today to schedule a tour of one of our beautiful facilities and ask questions to help put your mind at ease if you’re considering a move for an aging loved one, spouse or even for yourself.

The post How Seniors Can Celebrate Independence With Independent Living appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.

If you want to grow old gracefully and enjoy all that your senior years and retirement have to offer, you need to stay fit! American House Senior Living Senior Living Communities understand that, and that’s why their life enrichment directors plan exciting and engaging outings and in-house activities. These activities are designed to stimulate both the body and the mind. We share the benefits of exercise for older adults in this article.

Exercise benefits everyone at any age. Unless your doctor tells you not to add activity to your daily routine, we believe that older active adults who do exercise regularly typically enjoy happier, healthier and longer lives.

The Benefits Of Exercise For Older Adults

Chances are, you know people who seem to look and act “older than their age.” The reason could simply be that they’re not getting up and moving around. Exercise for seniors doesn’t mean you need to run a marathon or climb a mountain, but what it does mean is making sure you’re getting some daily activity. The exercise you get involved in will be determined by your level of fitness, how active you currently are and the recommendation of your doctor.

You certainly don’t want to go from couch potato to marathon runner. But you can go from limited movement and activity to taking a short walk outdoors or strolling the hallways outside your apartment here at American House in Michigan.

Staying active might eliminate the risk of certain diseases and could also help prevent trip-and-fall injuries. Older adults who are more active are also more likely to have better balance than their more sedentary counterparts.

What are some habits that older adults can have to stay active?

1. Park your car further from the store and walk.
2. Take the stairs instead of an elevator.
3. Practice chair yoga.
4. Ride an exercise bike.
5. Get up and do some stretches during television commercials.

Adults who want to be more active find simple ways to work more movement into their daily activities.

How will physical activity benefit you as you age?

1. Lowers your risk of heart disease, stroke or type 2 diabetes.
2. Improves your balance and strength.
3. Could alleviate the symptoms of anxiety and depression.
4. Could help with overall mental health.
5. Movement prevents bone loss.
6. You might see a boost in your mood!

What activities can a senior citizen easily do?

1. Take a walk.
2. Try chair yoga.
3. Do stretches.
4. Lift “weights” at home by using canned foods as your weights.

Find a friend or an accountability buddy who wants to walk with you to help keep you motivated. And it’s more enjoyable to share an activity with a friend, right?

Now that spring is in full bloom and summer is just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to add activity to your daily routine!

American House was founded in 1979 to enrich the lives of seniors and their loved ones in an environment that fosters independence, compassion, quality services and meaningful relationships. We provide a wide range of senior living options, including independent living, independent living with assistance, memory care services provided by a third party, respite stays and hospice in Dearborn Heights, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights and Westland.

Call an American House Senior Living community near you today to schedule a tour of one of our beautiful facilities and ask questions to help put your mind at ease if you’re considering a move for an aging loved one, spouse or even for yourself.

The post The Benefits Of Exercise For Older Adults appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.

Aging is a fact of life. There is no escaping it, but that doesn’t mean you can’t age in a way that makes your Golden Years shine brightly! While genetics plays a role in our health and we can’t control it, we can control other aspects of our life and health that make aging something there’s no need to dread. The senior living experts at American House in Michigan offer these ways to get healthy and stay healthy.

Don’t tell yourself, “I’m too old to start living healthier.” That’s just not true! There are simple steps you can take starting today that will help you age in the healthiest way possible. Taking the choice of aging in a way that helps keep you physically active and emotionally involved is the best way to enjoy your Golden Years.

Ways To Get Healthy And Stay Healthy

The National Institutes of Health offer a wealth of information on healthy and happy aging, and they shared these tips for older adults. We do urge you to check with your own doctor before you start any kind of exercise or make any drastic changes to the way you live.

Ready. Set. Go… for your healthier older adult years. 

1. Get your zzzzzs. Sleep is when your body rejuvenates itself and repairs the toll the day has taken on your physical and mental health. Go to bed at regular times and wake up at the same time every day. Getting into a routine sleep pattern will help you get the best night’s rest possible. Talk with your doctor if you have trouble falling, or staying, asleep.
2. Get up and get moving. You don’t have to run a marathon, but you do need to get up and move. You could walk around your house or march in place while you’re watching television. Consider taking a walk around the neighborhood. When you live at one of our American House Senior Living communities in Michigan, you can walk up and down the hallways, or you can walk the campus when the weather allows for it. You could do chair yoga or gentle bends and stretches. Any kind of movement will help you age more gracefully, and when you’re moving, you are also helping improve your balance. That is necessary as you age to help prevent falls.
3. Diet matters. We’re not saying you need to go on a diet, but you should eat healthy meals. Choose a wide variety of fruits and vegetables to have as snacks or with your meals. Eat healthy proteins and fish. Look for, and enjoy, whole grains such as oatmeal. Drink alcohol in moderation and eat processed foods and snacks in moderation also. You don’t have to give up all the foods you love, but you need to eat more mindfully to help ensure you’re practicing healthy habits for a lifetime.
4. Don’t avoid your doctor. In fact, schedule regular visits and check-ups even if you feel healthy. Your doctor is your partner in good health and may be the first to notice any slight changes in your health that he or she can help address. Follow your doctor’s instructions and give them a call if you feel any “new” aches or pains that simply won’t go away.
5. Don’t forget to care for your mental and emotional health. Older adults who are isolated may find themselves suffering from depression and anxiety. If you live alone, make it a point to get out and socialize, attend senior community activities or get involved in your church or another social group. Our residents have “neighbors” they can make friends with and enjoy a cup of coffee or a stroll around the campus. If your family lives far away, use technology to stay in touch.
6. Enjoy a hobby. Is there a hobby you have always loved but haven’t participated in for a while? Is there something you always wanted to try but haven’t? Why not take up a hobby? Take a class to learn to knit or crochet, if that’s something you’ve always wanted to do. If woodworking or making birdhouses is on your wish list, what’s stopping you? Look for activities that incorporate a hobby you’re involved in or want to get involved in. There is no time like the present to try something new or restart something you’ve gotten away from.

Older adults who are aging-in-place live should make an effort to maintain physical and mental health to ensure they can continue to remain in their homes. At our American House Senior Living Communities, our residents are treated like family, and have access to socialization, home-cooked meals, activities and more that the NIH believes are crucial to healthy aging.

American House was founded in 1979 to enrich the lives of seniors and their loved ones in an environment that fosters independence, compassion, quality services and meaningful relationships. We provide a wide range of senior living options, including independent living, independent living with assistance, memory care services provided by a third party, respite stays and hospice in Dearborn Heights, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights and Westland.

Call an American House Senior Living community near you today to schedule a tour of one of our beautiful facilities and ask questions to help put your mind at ease if you’re considering a move for an aging loved one, spouse or even for yourself.

The post How To Get Healthy And Stay Healthy appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.

One of the many things that children of aging parents don’t want to think about is, “where will mom and dad live when they can no longer live safely at home?” Aging adults also share that fear. When it comes to where aging loved ones will live, we have insight into how senior living communities offer peace of mind for both the adult child and the aging parent.

At American House Senior Living in Michigan, our six communities provide social interaction, healthy meals and a safe environment in which to live. Whether you have an older parent who can live independently or your aging loved one requires a higher level of care or even memory care, do your research on living arrangements that will be suitable for mom and dad and the entire family. Try to involve your aging loved one as much as possible in the decision on where to live and when to make the move into a senior living community. To make the move as stress-free as possible, you must remain sensitive to your loved one’s feelings. The effects of “relocation stress” should not be ignored or minimized.

How Senior Living Communities Offer Peace Of Mind

In some instances, the decision to move an aging loved one or a spouse into a senior living community comes following an unexpected injury. The sudden onset of an illness that makes it impossible for you to care for them at home could also be a deciding factor in making a move.

It is not always as straightforward as the situations mentioned above, though. You may find that your aging parent and his or her chronic health conditions or bouts of forgetfulness are troubling. It’s important to pay attention to sometimes subtle behavioral, mental and physical changes that may prompt a move into a senior living community.

Those could include:

1. Leaving the stove on.
2. Not remembering to eat meals.
3. Becoming forgetful.
4. Inability to perform simple daily personal hygiene tasks.
5. Living in a home that is simply not senior-friendly and that has trip or fall hazards.
6. If your loved one is a danger to themselves or others.

The peace of mind offered by a move into an American House Senior Living community is a benefit to both the adult child or spouse and aging parent. We do suggest that conversations about where your aging parent will live should occur before the need arises. No one wants to be faced with making a major decision like a move into an adult-living facility during a crisis situation. We invite our potential residents to call a nearby community and ask to schedule a personal tour. When you and your loved one can see the possibilities and benefits that come from living in an American House community in Michigan, the eventual move will be a less stressful situation because of the pre-planning.

How would a move into a senior living community bring peace of mind to you, your family and your loved one? Here are a few of the many ways to consider:

1. Access to medical assistance if needed.
2. Increased safety.
3. The ability to live in a maintenance-free apartment and not have to worry about yard and lawn care or repairs.
4. Access to activities and outings.
5. Healthy prepared meals.
6. The opportunity to make new friends.

Many people who are faced with moving mom or dad or a spouse into a senior living community can feel anxiety and a sense of loss. It’s a normal feeling, but when you weigh the safety and security of your loved one, you know you’re doing your best for them – even if it’s not easy to recognize that in the beginning.

American House was founded in 1979 to enrich the lives of seniors and their loved ones in an environment that fosters independence, compassion, quality services and meaningful relationships. We provide a wide range of senior living options, including independent living, independent living with assistance, memory care services provided by a third party, respite stays and hospice in Dearborn Heights, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights and Westland.

Call an American House Senior Living community near you today to schedule a tour of one of our beautiful facilities and ask questions to help put your mind at ease if you’re considering a move for an aging loved one, spouse or even for yourself.

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Caring for an aging or ill loved one is a task that many adults find themselves doing. In many cases, they take on the role happily even though the caregivers find themselves “sandwiched” between caring for aging parents, pursuing their careers and caring for their own families. Caregivers in this situation face burnout because they’re burning the candle at both ends and may not know how to cope. We share information on how respite prevents caregiver burnout: 5 tips that we know will be helpful.

At American House Senior Living Communities in Michigan, we understand what caregivers face. Many of our communities now offer respite apartments to alleviate caregiver burnout. Another benefit of our respite apartments is that your aging loved one will have access to meals, planned outings, on-site activities and the ability to make new friends. Respite at one of our American House locations gives the caregiver peace of mind and also gives them time to refresh and recharge their batteries.

How Respite Prevents Caregiver Burnout: 5 Tips

If you’re new to caregiving, you may not be aware of the stats from a study conducted by AARP. As this information shows, you are not alone in the role of caregiving.

Caregiving stats from AARP

1. The number of unpaid caregivers in the U.S. has reached more than 50 million adults who are unpaid caregivers to an adult over the age of 50.
2. Respite care costs vary depending on the area of the country, facility amenities and level of services required. The costs can range from $100 to $250 per day.
3. Older adults benefit from respite care because they could meet new people, try out a new living situation and get involved in activities.

Caring for an aging adult may be a wonderful gift you’re giving to a loved one. It can be difficult though, and that is even more prevalent if your loved one is suffering from dementia, illness or physical limitations. Also, in many cases, the caregiver is not a trained professional – they are a concerned loved one in a situation for which they may not be prepared.

There are resources for those thrust into the role of caregiver that can help, and your loved ones' physician or medical team can certainly provide insight and assistance.

No matter how well-prepared you are or whether you stepped up and volunteered, being a caregiver can take a toll mentally and physically. This may be even more true if the caregiver is working or caring for their own children and their significant other. Caregivers need to find a way to balance care in addition to other roles and relationships in their lives. This is when respite is a blessing for the caregiver facing burnout who needs to take time to rest, recharge and reconnect.

Some of the causes of caregiver burnout include:

1. Balancing the role of caregiver along with other family and work responsibilities.
2. It taxes physical and emotional health.
3. Lack of time for self-care.
4. It can be difficult for the parent and child to separate the role of the caregiver as well as the role reversal that caregiving brings.
5. Unreasonable demands may be placed on the primary caregiver by other family members who may not be as involved.
6. Unrealistic expectations from the caregiver feeling that the loved one they’re taking care of will be grateful for the care. In some cases, being a caregiver seems like a thankless task, and the person for whom you’re caring may simply not appreciate all that you’re doing, and that can lead to burnout and guilt.

 How do you know if you’re suffering from caregiver burnout? Here are some signs:

1. Anxiety
2. Depression
3. Frustration
4. Overwhelming exhaustion
5. Personal health problems
6. Sleeplessness or insomnia
7. Withdrawal from social activities because you’re so focused on caregiving

What’s a caregiver to do?

Reach out to an American House Senior Living Community in Michigan near you and ask about our respite facilities. We understand that caregivers need a break, and knowing that their loved one is in a safe, secure facility that provides companionship, delicious meals and social activities gives them peace of mind.

Steps to take to prevent caregiver burnout

1. Research respite stays for your loved one.
2. You’ll be asking for help. Whether you hire a professional in-home caregiver or ask friends or family for help, it’s important you don’t feel you have to do it alone.
3. Look for local resources such as respite facilities or even adult daycare options.
4. Join a support group. You’ll find out you’re not alone and listening to others who are going through what you’re going through is helpful. Elder support groups are ideal resources to help find solutions to caregiving issues.
5. Take a deep breath. Sometimes, your loved ones simply won’t appreciate what you’re doing but remember they may be afraid of losing control of their lives and may be embarrassed that they can no longer fend for themselves.
6. Make the most of the time with your loved one. Yes, you may need to feed, bathe, cook meals or run errands, but make time to just have a conversation. Play board games or card games, work on a puzzle together or get out and take a walk or a car ride. The memories you build will be ones that will comfort you when your loved one is no longer with you.

Remember, reaching out to an American House Senior Living Community and asking about respite stays for your loved one is not a selfish act. Giving yourself and your loved one a respite stay is a gift for all involved.  

American House was founded in 1979 to enrich the lives of seniors and their loved ones in an environment that fosters independence, compassion, quality services and meaningful relationships. We provide a wide range of senior living options, including independent living, independent living with assistance, memory care services provided by a third party, respite stays and hospice in Dearborn Heights, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights and Westland.

The post How Respite Prevents Caregiver Burnout: 5 Tips appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.

Winter in Michigan can be long, lonely and cold. At American House Senior Living Community, we understand there are several months of the year when the sun doesn’t shine brightly – or at all – and snow is falling and the doldrums set in. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) can impact anyone of any age, but in some cases, older adults are more negatively affected because they may be isolated in the winter months. We have put together a list of 7 ways seniors can beat the winter blues that you or your loved ones may find helpful.

American House Senior Living Communities have life enrichment directors on staff, and they plan activities, exercise classes, events, themed dinners and bus trips to help ease the feeling of being shut in. Staying active and involved goes a long way toward beating the winter blues, even if you or your loved one lives alone.

7 Ways Seniors Can Beat The Winter Blues

Before we get into how to beat the winter blues, we want to share some of the symptoms of SAD and feeling “down.”

1. The most obvious is feeling sad or depressed.
2. Your energy is low.
3. You don’t want to be with or talk with friends and family.
4. You overindulge in unhealthy foods OR you have a lack of appetite.
5. You feel apathetic and have no motivation to get involved in activities you once enjoyed.
6. You’re sleeping more than usual, and you may wake up still feeling tired.

Here are some easy – and fun – ways to make it through winter and find ways to cope with the long, gray snowy days. Remember, you don’t have to wait until spring to feel better! We think you will like these 7 ways seniors can beat the winter blues.

1. Eat a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables, and try to avoid carbohydrate-heavy foods or sugar-filled treats. Ask your doctor whether supplements can help round out your diet to ensure you’re getting all the vitamins and minerals you need to stay healthy.
2. Turn on the lights! One of the main reasons people suffer from depression in the winter is the lack of sunlight. You can buy a light that simulates sunshine and casts a bright enough light to help lift your mood. You may want to talk with your medical professional about whether you’d benefit from light therapy.
3. Take comfort in being comfortable. Cozy, warm blankets, thick socks, sitting in front of a fireplace and sipping a warm drink will all work together to take the chill off the day. Being cozy is a mood booster, and it might make sense to invest in blankets, clothing and other items that make you feel wrapped in comfort.
4. Get up and get moving. This may seem counterintuitive to being comfortable and cozy, but throughout the day you can alternate from sitting and relaxing to getting physical activity. If the weather doesn’t cooperate to let you get outdoors and take a walk, just take a walk inside your home. Walk in place, walk around your home, do stretches or practice chair yoga. When you’re being physically active, you are boosting your serotonin (feel-good hormone) levels and boosting your mood. Additionally, staying active will go a long way in helping you stay healthy. At our American House communities, we offer a variety of exercises suitable for older adults and even those with limited range of motion.
5. This may be harder for seniors who live alone and don’t want to venture out into the cold and snow, but you can still “socialize” by calling a friend or family member. Go online and do a video chat with a loved one. If you live in a senior living community in Michigan, eat your meals in the dining room with your friends, participate in various on-site and off-site activities and spend time with your American House neighbors.
6. Learn something new. Have you always wanted to learn to knit or crochet? Do you love an evening with friends putting together a puzzle or playing cards or bingo? Maybe you want to learn a new language or learn to write a story. If you’re housebound, there is no time like now to take a class, spend time with your friends, learn something new or take up a hobby.
7. Practice gratitude. There are days when it may seem as though there is nothing to feel happy about or look forward to, but if you take a little time to think about it, you may just find something to be grateful for. Perhaps you had a wonderful talk with a friend. Maybe you enjoyed a delicious dinner. If you spent a couple of hours watching your favorite movie in your favorite comfortable place and it brought a smile to your face, write it down. You might have played a rousing game of balloon volleyball with your friends at your American House Senior Living Community and your team won! Get into the habit of writing down a few things that you’re grateful for every day and when you’re feeling down, read them. They just might put a smile on your face and even motivate you to do more of what made you happy. You don’t have to have major life changes in order to be grateful. Some days it’s the smallest things that bring the biggest glimmer of happiness.

A bonus tip for beating the winter blues is to plant some greenery. Buy a plant and nurture it. Plant some seeds and grow herbs on your windowsill. If you don’t have a green thumb, consider getting a few succulents – they are very hardy and still add a pop of nature and greenery to a gray wintery day.

If you try some of the strategies and you’re still not feeling yourself, make sure you reach out to a loved one or your doctor and talk with them. Winters may be long, but you don’t have to feel alone or lonely.

American House was founded in 1979 to enrich the lives of seniors and their loved ones in an environment that fosters independence, compassion, quality services and meaningful relationships. We provide a wide range of senior living options, including independent living, independent living with assistance, memory care services provided by a third party, respite stays and hospice in Dearborn Heights, Farmington Hills, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights and Westland.

The post 7 Ways Seniors Can Beat The Winter Blues appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.