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.

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.

The post How Senior Living Communities Offer Peace Of Mind 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.

At American House Senior Living in Michigan, we understand that as we age, the risk of developing dementia increases. “Dementia” is a term that encompasses a wide range of neurological conditions. These conditions tend to worsen over time.

According to the National Institutes of Health*, there are four main types of dementia, with Alzheimer’s Disease being the most known.

The symptoms of dementia that should raise red flags if you or your loved one develop them include:

1. Mild – getting lost or repeating questions
2. Moderate – impulsive behavior, difficulty remembering the names of loved ones
3. Severe – unable to communicate

Dementia can lead to:

1. Behavioral and emotional changes
2. Difficulty with movement
3. Language and communication difficulty
4. Cognitive decline
5. Sleep disorders – sleeping too much or too little
6. Visual hallucinations

Understanding Dementia And Its Effects On Your Loved Ones

Watching a loved one age, or aging yourself, is sometimes difficult to navigate. When you add dementia into the mix, it is even more troubling. At American House, we understand the importance of proper care services and safety measures, and that’s why we offer Memory Care** services in several of our communities.

Remember: Symptoms of dementia can appear as early as the mid-forties. If you notice any troubling symptoms in yourself or a loved one, reach out to your primary care doctor, who can work with you on a primary diagnosis and offer next steps. While there is currently no cure for dementia, there are treatments available that can slow or minimize the effects.

Contact an American House Senior Living Community near you to take a tour and also ask us about the benefits of moving into one of our communities. Imagine spending the holidays in your new home in American House Sterling Heights.

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.

*NIH

**Provided by a trusted third-party home care company. Our emphasis is on person-centered services while offering support to their loved ones.

The post Understanding Dementia And Its Effects On Your Loved Ones appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.

Michigan winters can be cold, long and lonely, and this can be especially true for older adults. That’s why our team at American House Senior Living Communities in Sterling Heights has put together a list of 5 reasons this is the best time of year to move. Our American House Senior Living Communities team offers a fantastic array of physical activities, social gatherings and outings. In fact, at the Sterling Heights community, we offer “activity bucks” that our residents receive when they participate in activities. The “bucks” can be redeemed at the on-site store.

Whether you get involved in our activities or just enjoy a quiet game of cards with your new friends or having a meal with your neighbors, this is the best time of year to make a move.

5 Reasons This Is The Best Time Of Year To Move

Why should you move into one of our single-story, affordable apartments before the snow starts to blow?

1. You’ll be cozy and settled before the holiday season.
2. You will be all set up to decorate your new place and entertain your friends and loved ones, meet new residents and make new friends to spend long winter days with.
3. The cost of moving may be lower this time of year. You may also have more apartment options this time of year than in the spring.
4. You just don’t want to face another winter being lonely and isolated in your own home.
5. As an incentive to move into American House Sterling Heights before the end of the year, we are offering: $200 off your rent for the first twelve months, and we will also waive our one-time $1,500 community fee!

Cooler days make packing up your household and moving into a new apartment more comfortable than if you were moving in the height of a hot, humid summer. The bright, sunny and comfortable days and nights and the lovely foliage, as well as knowing the holidays are just around the corner, might just be the reasons you were looking for to make a move to a new, no-maintenance (and that means no shoveling this winter!) apartment in Sterling Heights, Michigan.

The crisp weather and bright colors of fall lead to falling leaves, and as homeowners, that means it’s time to get the rakes out and clean up the yard. The gutters will need to be cleaned, air conditioners removed and winterization tasks need to be performed before winter in Michigan arrives. Even if you’re an active adult or Boomer, raking leaves may not be the way you want to spend your free time, right?

Here are even more reasons to consider taking a tour of an American House Senior Living Community near you, moving into one of our lovely apartments and letting us take care of the raking this season!

• If you have a home to sell before you move into one of our communities, this is the best time of year to make any necessary repairs. This is also the time of year when home sales are brisk – before the holidays and winter – and you can take advantage of that.
• If you’ve been wanting a change, moving into a new apartment could be just what you’ve been looking for. There’s no reason to spend another holiday alone, as older adults sometimes do. You can be settled into your apartment and invite friends and family over to celebrate the holidays. If your friends and family don’t live close by, you can enjoy the holidays with the new friends and your new neighbors at Sterling Heights.
• Don’t let the winter chills get to you this year. The apartments at American House Senior Living Communities are cozy and warm. If you spend another winter in your home, you’ll be faced with shoveling your sidewalks and driveways (or paying a contractor, and that can get costly.) Our residents have access to transportation to and from doctors’ appointments and we have shopping trips and fun outings, and that not only makes it safe but makes winter more fun than being stuck in your home.
• If you live alone, winters and the snow and blustery winds can mean the weeks and months can be long and lonely, and isolation can lead to depression. Moving into an American House single-story apartment alleviates concerns for both the resident and their family.
• Moving now means you will be settled and comfortable in your new home. You can decorate your apartment for the holidays and know that you won’t be home alone. When you move before winter, you will have time to meet residents and make new friends to spend the holidays and those long winter days with.

Staying active and involved and living in a maintenance-free apartment will give you more time to enjoy your free time and less time worrying about home repairs and shoveling snow!

Contact an American House Senior Living Community near you and take a tour and also ask us about the benefits of moving into one of our communities this autumn. Imagine spending the holidays in your new home in American House Sterling Heights.

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 5 Reasons This Is The Best Time Of Year To Move appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.

As Abraham Lincoln has been credited with saying, “It’s not the years in your life that count; it’s the life in your years.” We agree! At American House Senior Living Communities, our life enrichment directors ensure there are activities from crafts to games to trips to keep everyone entertained, fun and keep “life in your years.” We want to share 5 aging myths that aren't true!

“You’re too old to do that” or other aging myths you may have heard need to be busted. We know the adage that you’re only as old as you feel. At American House Senior Living Communities, we know that as you age, you might not be out running a 5K or mountain climbing, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be living a full, fun life, right?

When you’re young, you can’t imagine what it will be like to grow old. You may not have thought about what it would “feel like” to grow older and perhaps have aching bones or just slow down. We know you have a choice of “acting” old or “acting” young. We opt for acting young and know it’s a state of mind!

5 Aging Myths That Aren’t True

If you’ve heard these myths about aging and growing old, we want to bust them and give you alternatives to give you more engaging “life in your years.”

1. Just because you’re aging doesn’t mean you need to be lonely. In fact, loneliness leads to health issues and depression. It may not be as easy to get out and “make friends”, but it’s important to stay connected. Attend events at senior centers. Connect with friends and family via technology and “face-time” type apps. If you live in a senior living community like ours, we go all-out planning activities and events to keep our residents, and their loved ones, involved and to give them the opportunity to make new friends. surrounded by friends. It’s a sad fact that as we get older we will inevitably lose our loved ones, friends and family and that’s why it’s so important to form connections and stay in touch with friends and family who are still with you. Isolation and not making new friends lead to further isolation and loneliness, and that can truly age you.
2. Sleep just isn’t as important as it once was. I can’t sleep anyway, so why even try? Sleep is important, and you do still need to get a good six to eight hours of restful, restorative and rejuvenating sleep. Even if you don’t feel tired or suffer from insomnia, you still need to try and sleep. When you get a good night’s sleep, you will be more alert and stay healthier. If you have trouble falling or staying asleep, talk with your doctor. Also, if you’re not feeling tired, getting up and getting more activity during the day might help you fall asleep when bedtime rolls around. Let's continue with 5 aging myths that aren't true.
3. There’s no reason to keep learning new things. Let’s definitely bust this myth! When you keep your mind active – whether you’re reading, doing crossword puzzles, playing games or taking classes, you’re keeping your brain strong. Don’t give in to negative cognitive changes and think “an old dog can’t learn new tricks.” Everyone can – and should -- keep learning. Have you always wanted to learn a different card game or a craft or learn to speak a foreign language, play piano or write a novel? Why not start today?
4. Exercise is for the fit and the young. If you exercise you might get hurt. If you go from complete couch potato to thinking you’re going to run a marathon, you do run the risk of injury. But if you talk with your doctor and take it slow, your heart will thank you for the activity you’re undertaking because you’re making it healthier. The phrase “move it or lose it” is especially true as we age. And balance is a concern for many older adults. A leading cause of injury in older adults are falls and many of those can lead to hospitalization. Start slow. Take a walk. Get up and march in place during commercials when you’re watching television. Stop by one of our communities and partake in our “fit and fab” activities. Call a community near you and ask for the schedule and drop in and try out a class that sounds fun.
5. I deserve to eat junk food! When you eat healthy, well-balanced meals you will age more gracefully and healthily. Everyone, no matter his or her age, benefits from meals comprised of fresh fruits, veggies and lean proteins and consuming fewer processed foods. You can certainly indulge in a glass of wine or a beer, a cookie or your favorite candy, but for the most part, you want to be mindful of what you eat.

Busting aging myths and common misconceptions about aging is something we love to do because at American House Senior Living Communities, we know aging happily and being healthy is what keeps us young!

Contact an American House Senior Living Community near you and take a tour.

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 5 Aging Myths That Aren’t True appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.

At American House Senior Living Communities in Michigan, we know aging can be – and should be – enjoyable. After all, you’re at an age where you probably aren’t working and have the time to pursue those activities you may have had to put off during your working and child-rearing years. We have put together a list of three benefits of aging, but are certain you can come up with even more.

We know there are many negative stereotypes that center around “getting old.” Those include people thinking you don’t have anything to offer, or that you’re “too old” to do activities that you love, among others.

In addition to the aging benefits we will share below, we know many of our residents have grandchildren and experience the joy of spending time with them. It’s easy to enjoy time with your grandchildren because you don’t have the pressure that comes with parenting. That’s why grandparents are known to spoil their grandbabies, right?

Three benefits of aging

You have free time. As mentioned, if you’re not working you have time on your hands to travel or visit with friends and family, sleep in or pursue that hobby you never had time for when you were younger. It’s never too late to try something new. Have you always wanted to take up ballroom dancing, learn to paint, or plant a garden? Now is the time to do just that!

You are happier. There have been studies that show seniors and older adults are among the happiest people; this is especially true when compared with middle-aged people. It could be because older adults have better coping mechanisms, or it could be because as you age you get more comfortable with who you are and are better able to cultivate peace in your life.

With age comes wisdom. Chances are you have heard that phrase and may just think it’s cliché, but it’s not – it’s true. You have the life experience to be more empathetic and more comfortable in social situations. You have a wider scope of view on the world and everything around you, and that comes from having had so many rich experiences.

Three Benefits Of Aging

At American House Senior Living Communities, our life enrichment directors are continually planning events based on resident requests and offering new, enriching experiences. Some of those activities include:

1. Yoga
2. Balloon volleyball
3. Tai Chi
4. Moving and Grooving exercise classes
5. Music and Movement classes
6. Painting
7. Various seasonal crafts
8. Holiday celebrations
9. And more

We understand and cherish the relationships we build with our residents, and we truly know that we have so much to learn from them as they have so much to offer!

Contact an American House Senior Living Community near you and take a tour.

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 Three Benefits Of Aging appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.

You and your family are planning a vacation getaway, but mom and dad just aren’t up for traveling. They live with you. What can you do? We share the benefit of respite services for seniors and families. Many caregivers don’t want to have a stranger come into the house to look after aging loved ones while they are out of town, and they don’t want you to cancel a trip. What can you do?

There are options available and American House MI offers respite services designed to provide a place to stay where your mom or dad will be safe and cared for. Not only that, but your aging loved ones will also be around people of their age, have access to activities, meals together and more. They will have a chance to connect with others and you will have the opportunity to go away without suffering “caregiver’s guilt.”

What is respite?

Respite services provide short-term relief for caregivers and short-term stays for loved ones. Respite services can be for an afternoon or for day or even weeks.

Benefit Of Respite Services For Seniors And Families

At American House Senior Living Communities, we know that as summer grows closer and travel restrictions are being eased, you may want to travel, but worry about who will look after your loved one. We have professionals who will welcome your loved one while you travel, for a day, a weekend or longer. American House Senior Living Communities offer fully-furnished apartments, delicious meals, a full and engaging social program. There are personal care services available upon request provided by a third party.

What types of respite services are there?

One of the best things about respite is its versatility. It can provide regularly scheduled breaks, or it can be available in case of an emergency. Respite services can be adapted to fit your particular needs.

Here are the three main types of respite services:

1. Home care where you hire someone to come into your home to look after your loved one.
2. Facility based like what is offered at American Home Senior Living Communities with all its amenities.
3. Community based respite that includes respite offered at adult day cares, community groups or religious organizations.

What are some considerations for respite for your aging loved one? Here are a few:

1. How long is the service needed.
2. Whether you want someone to come into your home.
3. Are additional services such as medical or housekeeping required?
4. Does your loved one have mobility challenges?
5. How much can you afford to pay?
6. Whether your loved one is seeking social interaction and likes to be involved in unique activities.

What are some benefits of respite services for the caregiver?

1. You need to take time for self-care.
2. You need to relax and renew yourself.
3. Sometimes you simply need space and a bit of distance from your loved one. You love one another, but a little alone time isn’t a bad thing.
4. You need to remember who you are when you’re not a caregiver.
5. Social interaction. The caregiver needs social interaction as much as their aging loved one does. Use respite services to take an afternoon, a day or a weekend off and spend time with friends.

What are some benefits for the older adult in your life to enjoy respite?

1. They get to make new friends and see new people. It can be isolating for your loved one if they don’t leave the house often and don’t have the luxury of interacting with and making friends with other seniors.
2. It will be a change of pace and a change of scenery. Your loved one might just welcome a place of his or her own. Staying in respite at an American House Senior Living Community offers time for interaction, meals with other older adults and the chance to form friendships.
3. If you’ve had a discussion with your loved one about what will happen when you are no longer able to care for them, spending time in one of our respite apartments gives them the chance to see what our communities are like.

Contact an American House community near you and take a tour.

 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 Benefit Of Respite Services For Seniors And Families appeared first on American House Senior Living Communities.