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Elevating Assisted Living Facilities in Omaha: The Family-Focused Approach of Parsons House

When it comes to providing top-tier assisted living facilities in Omaha, Parsons House Assisted Living stands out as a shining example of family-owned dedication and a strong focus on enriching the lives of its residents. With a motto of “Lives Enriched… Spirits Renewed,” Parsons House has become more than just a residence; it’s a haven where residents experience transformation, connection, and a renewed sense of purpose. Let’s explore how this family-owned facility is making a difference in the lives of seniors seeking exceptional care and comfort.

Rooted in Community

At the heart of Parsons House’s success lies its family-owned identity. The owners are deeply rooted in the Omaha community, bringing a personalized touch to the facility’s operations. This sense of belonging fosters a strong commitment to the residents, staff, and the community as a whole. Unlike larger corporate entities, Parsons House operates as a single residential care property, which means that there are no layers of bureaucracy to navigate. Help and answers are readily available, ensuring that residents and their families receive the attention and care they deserve.

Enriching Lives and Renewing Spirits

The core philosophy at Parsons House revolves around transforming lives and reigniting spirits. Families often experience a moment of reassurance when they see their loved ones thrive within the Parsons House family. The motto isn’t just words; it’s a tangible reality where residents embark on a new chapter, guided by imagination and newfound purpose. This transformational journey starts with resident-centered communication and extends to involving family members who share in the commitment to their loved one’s happiness and well-being.

Core Beliefs

Parsons House is built upon several core beliefs that ensure the highest quality of care and an exceptional living experience:

  1. All-Inclusive Amenities: The facility offers an all-inclusive amenities pricing structure, ensuring residents enjoy a comprehensive range of services without hidden costs.
  2. Tailored Care: Specialized staff and distinct activities cater to the unique needs of Assisted Living and Memory Care Communities, recognizing the diverse requirements of residents.
  3. Culinary Excellence: With a culinary-trained chef at the helm, Parsons House provides restaurant-style meals featuring fresh and nutritious ingredients.
  4. Memory Care Focus: The facility boasts the city’s largest memory care outdoor courtyard, fostering a calming and engaging environment for residents.
  5. Resident Assimilation: The 6-60 Resident Liaison program ensures that new residents seamlessly integrate into the community, fostering a sense of belonging.

Not Just a Property, but a Family

In an era of expansive retirement living conglomerates, Parsons House stands out as a family-owned and family-focused community. This distinction is crucial for families seeking the right home for their loved ones. Recognizing the weight of this decision, Parsons House embraces the responsibility with open arms, striving to provide an environment where residents can truly flourish and embrace life to the fullest.

A Warm Welcome to Parsons House

Welcoming new residents to Parsons House is more than a formality; it’s an invitation to a community where lives are enriched and spirits are renewed. The facility’s trained professionals make it their mission to bring joy and fulfillment to the lives of residents every day. As life’s stages evolve, Parsons House ensures that residents receive the care and attention necessary for a happy and meaningful existence.

Active Assisted Living: Amenities and Services

Parsons House offers a wide range of accommodation options, including studios, parlors, one-bedroom, one-bedroom with a den, and two-bedroom apartments. Each living space features private baths, kitchenettes, and individual climate controls within a secure environment. The facility’s dedication to comfort and care is reflected in its comprehensive list of amenities and services:

  • Nurse Practitioners available for medical needs
  • Three daily meals prepared by a professional culinary chef
  • Weekly housekeeping services
  • Laundry service, both personal and flat
  • Comprehensive utilities coverage, including wireless internet and cable
  • Daily activities and social events
  • Wellness and exercise classes
  • Dining membership to the Champions Club
  • Pet therapy on-site
  • Transportation to medical appointments
  • 24-hour professional staffing and emergency response
  • Routine wellness reviews and assessments
  • Expansive outdoor courtyards for relaxation

Additionally, residents have access to specialized in-house services, including physical therapy, podiatry, physician visits, dental care, massage therapy, and lab services.

Active Assisted Living: Specialized Care

Parsons House’s commitment to active assisted living is evident in its vibrant and engaging environment. The facility thrives on delivering an active and enjoyable lifestyle, featuring an array of events and activities that cater to diverse interests. The grand dining room overlooks the picturesque Champions Run Golf Course, offering a fine dining experience that enhances residents’ daily lives. With expansive courtyards, residents have the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in a safe and secure setting.

Family Focused Active Assisted Living in Omaha

Parsons House Assisted Living in Omaha has redefined what it means to be a family-owned and family-focused facility. With an unwavering commitment to enriching lives and renewing spirits, Parsons House stands as a beacon of exceptional care, comfort, and community. As families navigate the crucial decision of finding the right place for their loved ones, Parsons House opens its doors, inviting them to experience a transformative journey where lives are truly enriched and spirits are genuinely renewed. Welcome to the Parsons House family, where each day is an opportunity to embrace the joys of living.

The Vital Role of Memory Care in Assisted Living Centers

Memory Care in Assisted Living Centers: Enriching Lives with Specialized Support

As the population ages, the demand for specialized care for seniors facing memory-related challenges is on the rise. Memory care plays a crucial role in assisted living centers, providing essential support and services for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other memory impairments. This article explores the importance of memory care in assisted living centers and how it significantly enhances the quality of life for residents and their families.

Memory care in assisted living centers is delivered by trained professionals who have a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by individuals with memory impairments. These caregivers are equipped with specialized knowledge to provide compassionate and effective care, fostering a safe and supportive environment for residents.

Tailored Care Plans: Personalized Assistance for Unique Needs

Every individual with memory impairment is unique, and memory care centers recognize the importance of personalized care plans. These plans are designed to address the specific needs and preferences of each resident, promoting their physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being. Personalized care plans evolve as residents’ conditions change, ensuring that they receive the appropriate level of support at all times.

Safe and Secure Environment: Minimizing Risks, Maximizing Comfort

Memory care units in assisted living centers are designed with safety in mind. The physical layout is carefully structured to minimize confusion and disorientation, reducing the risk of accidents. Additionally, secured access points and trained staff help prevent wandering, a common behavior in individuals with memory impairment.

Cognitive Stimulation: Nurturing Mind and Memory

Memory care programs are tailored to provide meaningful cognitive stimulation through activities, exercises, and memory-enhancing techniques. These engagements not only improve cognitive function but also promote emotional well-being and social interaction among residents, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.

Fostering Emotional Well-being: Compassion and Community

Living with memory impairments can be emotionally challenging for both residents and their families. Memory care centers provide a compassionate and understanding environment, offering emotional support to residents and their loved ones. Regular interaction with empathetic caregivers and fellow residents creates a sense of community and alleviates feelings of isolation.

Medication Management: Ensuring Safe and Timely Care

Managing medications can be complex, especially for individuals with memory impairments. Memory care centers have structured systems in place to ensure residents receive their medications correctly and on time. This helps prevent medication-related complications and provides peace of mind to families.

Family Involvement: Strengthening Connections and Providing Support

Memory care centers encourage family involvement and recognize the importance of maintaining strong connections with loved ones. Family members are encouraged to participate in activities, events, and care planning meetings, fostering a sense of collaboration and support.

Enhanced Quality of Life: Fostering Joy, Purpose, and Fulfillment

The focus of memory care in assisted living centers is not just on managing symptoms but also on enriching the lives of residents. Engaging activities, social interactions, and a secure environment contribute to an improved quality of life, fostering feelings of joy, purpose, and fulfillment.

Conclusion:

Memory care in assisted living centers plays a vital role in providing the specialized care and support necessary for individuals living with memory impairments. Through tailored care plans, specialized expertise, cognitive stimulation, emotional support, and enhanced safety measures, memory care centers create an environment that promotes the well-being and quality of life for their residents. As the demand for memory care continues to grow, these dedicated facilities stand at the forefront, ensuring that seniors facing memory challenges can live with dignity, compassion, and respect.



Enhancing Quality of Life: Assisted Living Facility in Omaha

If you’re searching for Assisted Living Facility in Omaha, you’ve come to the right place. Parsons House Assisted Living & Memory Care, Omaha’s award-winning assisted living facility, has recently undergone an exciting transformation. With a focus on creating a warm and welcoming environment, the facility has been newly renovated to provide an array of amenities that cater to the comfort and well-being of its residents. From a coffee bistro and pub to an exercise facility, salon and spa, and even a dog park, these additions offer residents a taste of home and contribute to a life they truly love. In this article, we delve into the importance of these creature comforts and how they enhance the quality of life for the residents of Parsons House Assisted Living & Memory Care.

Creating a Sense of Community

For individuals transitioning from their familiar homes to an assisted living facility, it is essential to have a supportive community that fosters a sense of belonging. The inclusion of a coffee bistro and pub within Parsons House allows residents to gather, socialize, and form meaningful connections with fellow residents and staff members. These spaces provide a vibrant atmosphere for conversations, friendships, and a sense of camaraderie.

Promoting Wellness and Vitality

Maintaining physical health and overall well-being is crucial for seniors in assisted living facilities. Parsons House recognizes the importance of exercise and offers a well-equipped exercise facility where residents can engage in regular physical activities. From gentle exercises to more advanced fitness routines, the facility caters to various fitness levels, promoting an active lifestyle and helping residents maintain their strength and mobility.

Additionally, the inclusion of a salon and spa at Parsons House allows residents to indulge in self-care and pampering. Access to professional salon services not only helps residents look and feel their best but also promotes a positive self-image and boosts their overall well-being.

Fostering Companionship and Joy

Pets play an integral role in many individuals’ lives, providing companionship and unconditional love. Recognizing this, Parsons House has created a dedicated dog park where residents can spend quality time with their beloved pets. The presence of a dog park encourages socialization among residents who share a common love for animals. It also enables residents to experience the emotional benefits of pet ownership, such as reduced stress, increased happiness, and a sense of purpose.

The Importance of Creature Comforts

a coffee bistro in omaha

By offering these luxuries and amenities, Parsons House Assisted Living & Memory Care goes above and beyond to create an environment that feels like home. These additions are not merely superficial enhancements but rather thoughtful considerations that contribute to the overall well-being and happiness of the residents. Research consistently demonstrates the positive impact of such creature comforts on seniors’ quality of life.

Studies have shown that social engagement and a sense of community are strongly correlated with improved cognitive function and mental well-being in older adults. Regular social interactions and the availability of communal spaces, such as the coffee bistro and pub at Parsons House, can help combat feelings of isolation and depression that may arise in seniors living away from their previous homes.

Similarly, physical activity has been proven to enhance physical and mental health, improve mood, and increase longevity. The presence of an exercise facility within the facility empowers residents to maintain an active lifestyle, contributing to their overall health and quality of life.

Furthermore, the opportunity to engage in self-care activities, such as salon and spa services, allows residents to maintain a positive self-image and boosts their self-esteem. These services provide a sense of normalcy and help residents feel good about themselves, which has a direct impact on their mental and emotional well-being.

Exceptional Experiences

dog park omaha

The newly renovated Parsons House Assisted Living & Memory Care facility in Omaha offers an exceptional living experience for its residents. By prioritizing the inclusion of a coffee bistro, pub, exercise facility, salon, spa, and dog park, Parsons House has created a vibrant and inclusive community where residents can acclimate and thrive.

The availability of these amenities goes beyond mere convenience; it demonstrates a deep understanding of the resident’s needs and desires. The management and staff at Parsons House Assisted Living & Memory Care recognize that transitioning to a new living environment can be challenging for seniors. By incorporating familiar comforts, they aim to create a sense of continuity and familiarity that helps residents feel at home while living at an Assisted Living Facility in Omaha.

Moreover, providing these luxuries contributes to a higher quality of life for the residents. The ability to enjoy a freshly brewed cup of coffee or gather with friends at the pub fosters a social atmosphere that encourages engagement and relationships. These spaces become the backdrop for laughter, storytelling, and shared experiences, promoting a sense of belonging and purpose.

Regular exercise is essential for maintaining physical health and independence, especially as we age. The exercise facility at Parsons House empowers residents to engage in activities that suit their abilities and interests. From gentle stretches to group fitness classes, residents have access to resources that support their well-being and vitality. The facility’s commitment to promoting an active lifestyle helps residents maintain their strength, flexibility, and overall physical health.

The addition of a salon and spa within Parsons House is more than a luxury; it is an investment in the residents’ emotional well-being. The opportunity to receive professional salon services not only allows residents to look their best but also provides a sense of dignity and self-care. Regular grooming and spa treatments contribute to residents’ self-esteem and positively impact their mental and emotional states. Feeling good about one’s appearance can lead to increased confidence and a greater sense of overall happiness.

Finally, the inclusion of a dedicated dog park at Parsons House Assisted Living & Memory Care recognizes the profound bond between humans and their pets. Pets offer companionship, love, and a sense of purpose, and their presence can significantly improve the lives of seniors. The dog park provides a safe and enjoyable space for residents to spend quality time with their furry friends, fostering connections and creating shared experiences among pet owners within the community. The joy and unconditional love provided by these beloved companions have been shown to reduce stress, decrease loneliness, and improve overall well-being.

The newly renovated Parsons House Assisted Living & Memory Care in Omaha has made remarkable strides in enhancing the quality of life for its residents. By incorporating a coffee bistro, pub, exercise facility, salon, spa, and dog park, the facility has created a warm and welcoming environment that promotes a smooth transition and fosters a sense of home.

These amenities are not merely indulgences but essential components that contribute to residents’ happiness, social engagement, physical well-being, and emotional fulfillment. Parsons House’s commitment to providing these creature comforts sets a high standard for assisted living facilities in Omaha, ensuring that residents can enjoy a life they love in their new community.

Assisted Living Omaha: Experience the Best at Parsons House

Searching for assisted living in Omaha? Parsons House is an award-winning community that is newly remodeled.

As we age, we may find ourselves needing assistance with daily living activities. This is where assisted living communities come into play, offering seniors the care they need in a comfortable and secure environment. Parsons House in Omaha, Nebraska, is one such community that has been providing exceptional assisted living services for years. Let’s explore what Parsons House has to offer for seniors and their loved ones.

Life with Assistance

Parsons House offers assisted living services that are tailored to each resident’s individual needs. They provide assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, grooming, medication management, and more. Their team of trained professionals is available 24/7 to ensure that each resident receives the care they need when they need it. With a focus on maintaining independence and promoting a healthy and active lifestyle, Parsons House residents can enjoy the benefits of assisted living while still maintaining their autonomy.

Active Assisted Living

At Parsons House, they believe that life should be enjoyed to the fullest, even in assisted living. Their active assisted living program is designed to keep residents engaged and entertained, with a calendar of events that includes social, recreational, educational, and cultural activities. Parsons House understands the importance of staying active and social, and they provide plenty of opportunities for residents to do so.

Specialized Levels of Care

Parsons House recognizes that each resident has unique needs, and they offer specialized levels of care to accommodate those needs. Their assisted living services are designed to provide a comfortable and secure environment for seniors who need a little extra assistance. They also offer memory care services for those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. Their memory care program is designed to promote independence and provide a safe and secure environment for those with memory impairment.

The Dining Experience

At Parsons House, residents can enjoy an exceptional dining experience with delicious meals prepared by their talented culinary team. Their menu includes a variety of nutritious and flavorful options, with special dietary needs taken into consideration. Residents can enjoy their meals in the beautiful dining room or in the comfort of their own apartments.

Enclosed Courtyards

Parsons House boasts the area’s largest and most beautifully landscaped enclosed courtyards, providing a serene and secure outdoor space for residents to enjoy. The courtyards offer walking paths, sitting areas, and beautiful gardens, allowing residents to get outside and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. Parsons House even has a dog park for our residents and their favorite companions!

Family-Owned and Family Focused

Parsons House is family-owned and family-focused, with a commitment to providing exceptional care and service to each resident. They understand the importance of family and encourage family involvement in the care of their loved ones. Parsons House provides a warm and welcoming environment where residents and their families can feel at home.

If you or a loved one is in need of assisted living services in Omaha, Nebraska, Parsons House is an excellent choice. With a focus on maintaining independence and promoting an active and engaging lifestyle, Parsons House offers exceptional care and service in a comfortable and secure environment. Contact them today to learn more about their assisted living services and schedule a tour of their beautiful community.

 

Memory Care Omaha: 7 Benefits for Your Aging Loved One

Struggling to find the best memory care in Omaha? You’re not alone. This article will dive into the 7 benefits of memory care for your aging loved one.

As seniors enter into the twilight years of their lives, it’s normal for memory to get a bit hazy. But unfortunately, some seniors experience this to a severe degree with dementia. Approximately 153 million people are likely to have dementia by the year 2050.

This can introduce a significant burden for children or caretakers of a senior with dementia. Fortunately, there is a solution. Your loved one can attend a memory care facility.

Memory care is the ideal environment for senior living with those who have some form of dementia. Follow along as we discuss seven benefits of memory care for your senior.

The best memory care in Omaha should have a secure environment.

1. Memory Care Is a Secure Environment

It’s very common for patients with dementia to wander without someone to attend to them, often straying far away and getting lost. In everyday life, there are plentiful opportunities for them to put themselves in harm’s way. Seniors are at high risk of falling, making a simple curbside a significant risk.

At a care facility, a senior is in much better hands. Whatever their activities, inside or outside, someone will be keeping an eye on them.

A memory care facility ensures that they never get into any dangerous situations. And rather than keep them cooped up inside all day, it gives them safe outdoor activities so they can get fresh air. You no longer have to keep a close watch on their whereabouts.

The best memory care in Omaha should have individualized and specialized care.

2. Individual, Specialized Care

A common concern with senior care facilities is that seniors may suffer neglect or abuse. People worry that seniors won’t take their medication on time, or that facility staff won’t keep track of needs specific to them. But in a memory care facility, individual, specialized care is available no matter what their needs may be.

Memory care provides them with treatment specific to their type of dementia. Employees get to know them by name and learn their everyday routines and treatments. You can rest assured that employees will take emergency measures when necessary and help lonely seniors feel a sense of purpose.

The best memory care in Omaha should have a full docket of activities and programs.

3. A Full Docket of Activities and Programs

Your beloved senior won’t have to sit around watching TV all day or staring longingly out the window. Instead, they can take part in a full calendar of daily, weekly, and monthly activities. These activities will give them adequate mental stimulation.

Having social activities that challenge the mind is extremely important for those in need of memory care options. Whether it’s bingo, crafting, or cooking, it will improve their overall quality of life.

The best memory care in Omaha should involve physical activity!

4. Physical Activity

In addition to normal social activities, there will be physical activities to get them up and moving. These could be things like gardening, or birdwatching. While seniors may struggle with exercises, they can certainly benefit from some walking and movement.

Seniors will also need assistance with everyday tasks, such as getting dressed or taking care of their own grooming. They will get plenty of help to do so, catered to their level of independence.

Regular physical activity can do wonders for someone’s health. Even if they get their blood pumping for just 10 minutes a day, it will make a huge change in their overall demeanor.

The best memory care in Omaha should provide assistance with doctors appointments and the monitoring of medication.

5. Assistance with Doctor Appointments and Monitoring of Medication

Just because a senior is in a memory care facility doesn’t mean they don’t need their regular doctor appointments. Rest assured, they will get the assistance they need to attend appointments and keep up with their medication.

Missing a doctor’s appointment is no big deal for someone in good health, but it can be life-changing for senior. The same goes for regular medications. You can rest easy knowing that they will get everything they need right on schedule.

They may need adjustments to their medication and dose from time to time. Staff will make sure they stay up-to-date with prescriptions and changes.

The best memory care in Omaha should provide custom meal plans.

6. Custom Meal Plans

In addition to a cocktail of regular medication, most seniors have strict dietary requirements. This is especially the case for patients with memory loss. The right supplements can promote brain health, strengthening memory storage and retrieval.

Plus, a meal personalized to their taste can make sure they feel comfortable and happy. Even if they can’t have the same home-cooked meals as before, they can have the next best thing. Good food to enjoy will help to make their stay in senior living that much easier.

There’s no need to worry about a menu that looks like prison food. Seniors will get a flavorful breakfast, lunch, and dinner replete with nutrients for optimal health.

The best memory care in Omaha should have plenty of opportunities to socialize.

7. Plenty of Opportunities to Socialize

Isolation is the biggest concern most people have when they think of a care facility. As we’ve mentioned above, there is a real concern that a senior won’t get the attention and love they deserve. Fortunately, a care facility puts them among people who are in the same situation.

There is a strong sense of camaraderie in senior living facilities. Being among those of the same age group reminds them that there are others who understand their situation. They can make friends, and share memories from the good old days.

Visit Parsons House

Memory care may become necessary for your loved ones if they suffer from Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia. In a memory care facility, they won’t feel like they ever left home. They will have all of their social, physical, and medical needs met and be active in the process.

At Parsons House, we have a beautiful, assisted-living memory care facility for your loved ones. Check out our facility and then drop by for a visit.

8 Factors to Consider When Deciding Between Senior Care Homes

Searching for senior care homes in Omaha? This article will help guide you in making the best decision possible.

Do you have a loved one requiring more help with everyday tasks such as bathing, dressing, or moving around? If so, consider transitioning them to assisted living.

One day, your elder’s care may become too much of a responsibility, and you’ll have to look at senior care homes. For example, if your elderly loved one requires constant observation or care multiple times at night. Unfortunately, sometimes this duty of helping can negatively impact your work and home life.

If you have a loved one who needs care due to aging, this blog may help. Here are eight factors to consider when choosing a senior care home.

1. Location

Location is one of the first factors to consider when deciding between senior care homes. Unless you want to travel long distances to visit your elderly loved one, finding an assisted living facility closer to home is preferable.

Consulting with your elderly parent about what they want is also essential. For example, they may want to remain within their current community.

Another factor when considering the location is how close the senior care homes are to health care providers. For example, if your elderly parent requires emergency care, a hospital nearby will be beneficial.

2. Amenities and Services

When choosing an assisted living facility, you need to review what services are available and what amenities the facility has. Services like helping with daily living are typically available, such as bathing or dressing assistance. Other services offered include:

  • Dining services
  • Exercise programs
  • Housekeeping
  • Wellness programs
  • Medication management

You may also want to check whether amenities like an on-site pharmacy are available. Reviewing the meals residents are offered can also help you decide on a facility. For example, an exemplary menu can be a tie-breaker if both homes provide the same services.

3. Size

A significant factor that can be overlooked is the size of the senior care homes you’re considering. A small senior care facility has between 4 and 25 beds, and a large one has between 26 and 50. Additionally, even larger senior care homes can accommodate more than 50 residents.

Additionally, the size of the facility will impact what benefits are offered and what amenities are available. Smaller senior care homes may have limited services, but larger ones with many amenities and features may cost more.

When considering the size of the facility, it’s also wise to inquire about the staff-to-resident ratio. Having enough staff to handle all the residents is vital if you want the level of care to stay manageable.

4. Cost

In a perfect world, the cost wouldn’t matter, but the truth is that the price of senior care homes is a factor you cannot ignore. Before deciding on an assisted living facility, work through your finances and decide on a budget beforehand. This will help you when narrowing your choice of senior care homes.

Check your insurance policy because you may be covered for some or all costs. Finally, check their payment policies once you decide on a living facility. Some may require upfront costs, a tiered system, monthly payments, or per-service costs.

5. Levels of Care

Another essential factor to consider is the assisted living facility’s level of care. Typically there are three levels of care in assisted living. Level one is the lower level care requirement suitable for residents needing only minor assistance. Level three care is the highest and best suited for residents who require help with daily living.

There are also different types of care that you can consider. These can be organized into three categories:

  • Personal Care: Assistance with daily living like bathing, etc.
  • Directed Care: Assistance with decision-making for cognitively impaired seniors, for example
  • Supervisory Care: Consists of trained professionals to perform duties like administering medication, for example

6. Caregiver Qualifications

You also want to consider the staff’s qualifications when comparing senior care homes. For example, if your loved one requires someone with medical training, you want to ensure the facility you choose has the relevant qualified staff.

If the home you choose doesn’t have the relevant licensing to offer higher levels of care, ask them if they can recommend any senior care homes that do.

7. Staff Demeanor

Staff friendliness can often be overlooked when deciding on an assisted living facility. However, this is essential because it indicates how employees will treat their loved one after they leave. Some indicators of an excellent senior care home are:

  • Did you get a warm greeting?
  • Are you being heard by the staff and having your questions answered?
  • Who does the staff talk to (i.e., only you, or do they include your elderly loved one)?
  • Are the employees patient with the residents?
  • Is the staff friendly?

8. Activities and Events

Our final factor is what entertainment options will be available for your loved one once admitted. Staying social is essential for overall mental wellness, so you want to ensure the senior care homes you’re considering have a varied list of activities and events.

You want to check if there are regularly scheduled social events like bingo or whether residents go on regular outings. Furthermore, are other activities offered, like a fitness center where residents can stay in shape? Other activities can include equine therapy, arts and crafts, and dances.

Make Deciding on Senior Care Homes a Breeze

Putting your elderly parent into an assisted living facility can bring up a lot of complicated emotions. It’s perfectly normal to feel guilty, but you know it’s time to consider senior care homes when caring for your elderly parent becomes too complicated.

Knowing what factors to consider when choosing between senior care homes can make the decision process much smoother. Remember to focus on qualifications, costs, levels of care, location, etc., when deciding.

If you’re looking for a family-owned, family-focused assisted living facility, reach out to us today. We have specialized staff waiting to care for your aging parent.

Find a Caregiver: How to Choose One.

In the United States, records show that 16.5% of the population are senior citizens. That’s more than 50 million elderly people.

When you have an elderly family member, the time may come when they need a caregiver. Choosing someone to look after your loved one is a serious matter, and you want to ensure you’re finding one that will be an ideal fit. To achieve this, you need to consider a few factors.

Keep reading to learn how to find a caregiver that will be a worthwhile addition to your family. Here’s everything you need to know.

What Is a Caregiver?

A caregiver has undergone training to care for someone who cannot do it for themselves. There are several types of caregivers, such as respite caregivers, family caregivers, and private-duty caregivers.

A caretaker’s job is to help with the handling of daily life for their patient. They are there to help with things their patient may not be able to perform themselves, like grocery shopping, bathing, and cooking. Caregivers build a strong relationship bond with the senior they are caring for and can also act as a companion for them in times when they would otherwise be lonely.

8 Tips to Find The Perfect Caregiver

If you’re looking to hire a caregiver, you want to ensure the one you choose will be a good fit, trustworthy, and well-suited to the job they need to perform. Here are our top ten tips so you can find a caregiver that’s a perfect fit.

1. Check Their Qualifications

Not every state will have the same caregiver qualification requirements, so you want to check with the requirement law in your state before proceeding. Some states require a specific amount of hours spent in training.

For example, some states require only 40 hours of training, and others require many more, including further education courses. Don’t skip this step if you want qualified providers.

2. Work Out Your Budget

Another factor to consider when needing a caregiver is what you can afford. Knowing your budget before you start interviewing potential candidates can save a lot of disappointment in the future.

Take time to work out what you and any other contributor can afford and make any candidates or agencies aware of this. This way, you can avoid being overwhelmed by expenses.

3. Review the Services Offered

When searching for the perfect caregiver, you must review each professional caregiver’s services. Not all caregivers will offer the same services, and it largely depends on their training and skill levels.

For example, will you need them to cook? If so, this needs to be a service they provide. More advanced requirements like bathing may also be a service some caregivers don’t supply.

4. Consider Skill Requirements

While considering what duties you need the caregiver to perform, you must consider what skill requirements you need. Caregivers aren’t medical professionals, but some will offer more advanced services than others. For example, if your loved one requires catheter care, the service you hire must have the necessary training and skill level to perform this task.

5. Discuss with Family Members

If more than one family member is contributing financially or helping in some way, you want to ensure you include them in some, if not all, of the decision-making process. Once you know what everyone can contribute, you’ll better understand the services and duties you need to perform.

For example, if one or more family member is offering to cook meals, that’s one less service you need to worry about paying a professional for. If another family member performs bathing duties, you can save money because you won’t need to find a caregiver who offers these more specialized services. These specialized services will increase the cost of the caregiver you hire.

6. Ask for Recommendations

Another way to find a caregiver is to ask friends and family for anyone they can recommend. Some friends may have already gone through the caregiver selection process and will have valuable input to provide. Use this information to help guide you in your decision-making.

If someone has used the service before and is happy, the chances are great that you will also be satisfied. Knowing this can give you a lot of peace of mind.

7. Insist on Background Checks

You don’t want to entrust just anyone to look after your elderly loved one. You want to ensure whomever you’re hiring has been background checked before you commit to using their services. If you go through an agency, ensure they run background checks on their caregivers.

If you’re not using a caregiver company and are hiring privately, you should run the background checks yourself if the candidate doesn’t provide one. There are many ways you can get a background check done. You want to check the caregiver’s credentials, residency status, and criminal background.

8. Conduct an Interview

Another factor you want to consider when you find a caregiver is the interview. The interview is an essential part of the decision-making process, so you must prepare your questions ahead of time. This may be the only time you speak to the potential candidate before making your final choice, so have the right questions ready.

Don’t be afraid to ask difficult questions. The more information you can get from the interview, the more likely you will find the perfect caregiver for your needs.

9. Suggest a Trial Run

While this may not always be possible, asking for a trial run is an excellent way to ensure you find a caregiver that is a good fit for your needs. Not only does it help you decide, but it also helps the caregiver know whether or not they can provide you with the level of service you’re looking for.

Your loved one will spend a lot of time with their caregiver, so making sure they’re compatible is another reason to ask for a trial run.

10. Agency or Private

Finally, another factor you need to consider when you find a caregiver is whether or not you want to go through an agency. If you choose not to, you can opt for a private individual, but you will likely have to conduct your own background check and set up your own interview.

If you choose to use an agency, they will most likely have already vetted your potential caregivers, which is one less thing you have to deal with during this already trying time.

Find a Caregiver Who Is a Perfect Fit

When you find a caregiver who meshes perfectly with your family, it can give you great peace of mind. By working out your budget, requirements, and expectations before beginning your search, you are more likely to find someone who matches all your needs. Remember, don’t be afraid to ask hard questions; never forgo the background check.

Choosing Assisted Living Facilities: 7 Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Choosing assisted living facilities is never easy.

The United States holds just about 30,000 assisted living facilities within its borders. You can easily find several assisted living facility options near you. However, it’s harder to be certain that you’ve chosen the right place for your aging loved one.

When they’re choosing assisted living facilities, people tend to make the same mistakes. Luckily, you don’t have to follow in their footsteps. Read on to learn about seven of these common mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Choosing Assisted Living Facilities Based on Closeness

You might feel tempted to choose the closest assisted living facility to your home. This way, you can visit your loved one often. However, your convenience may not equal your loved one’s comfort.

Your loved one may have to live in a facility 24/7. They’ll likely only see you for a few hours every day at most. As much as your loved one can enjoy seeing you, they’ll spend more time being or not being comfortable.

Make sure that you prioritize your loved one’s comfort levels above everything else.

2. Not Involving Your Loved One in the Decision

The best way that you can ensure your loved one’s comfort is to involve your loved one in the decision as much as possible. It may seem impossible if your loved one is struggling with certain diseases. However, if this is the case, you can consider what you know about your loved one and look into aspects of his or her past.

For example, if your loved one had a journal, you can read that to consider what they might like. You can think about what activities your loved one enjoys and list them down. Then you can find an assisted living facility that offers similar activities for seniors.

In addition, try talking to people that your loved one knew or knows. They’ll likely have some ideas for some benefits of assisted living facility options your loved one will enjoy.

3. Looking Through the Different Options Alone

You can also get some outside opinions on senior living facilities from people that you know. First, give friends and other family members all the facts. Tell them about your loved one’s needs, interests, and the facilities that you think would suit him or her well.

Each friend or family member should have some opinion on whether you’re choosing the right option or not. This can help you gain some perspective on your possible decision. They may also make other suggestions for senior living facilities that they’ve used.

You can consider the other options if you wish. However, keep in mind that the facilities they’ve used may not be the ones you should use. Your loved one’s needs may not be the same as their loved one’s needs.

4. Not Considering Your Loved One’s Future Needs

Speaking of which, it’s important to consider what assistance your loved one may need in the future. Seniors who are suffering from certain medical conditions like Alzheimer’s need help from specialized living facilities. You can move your loved one if they start to show certain symptoms, but that can get inconvenient.

Take your loved one to a doctor before you start deciding on living facilities. Check to see if your loved one has any early signs of certain diseases. If they will experience this disease in the future, check them into a facility that is prepared to treat this disease.

You can also look into your family history to measure risks. Plenty of senior diseases are genetic.

5. Not Learning the Full Picture Of Assisted Living Costs

Another aspect of considering your loved one’s future needs has to do with pricing. When your loved one needs more care, the price you pay for the facility can increase more than you’d expect. You might have trouble adapting to this price change.

However, the price doesn’t have to change. The pricing structure where you pay more to add certain care options to a base price is known as a-lá-carte. The other pricing structure option is known as level-of-care.

If you choose the latter pricing structure, you’ll pay the same amount no matter how much care your loved one needs. Just keep in mind that this payment structure can be more expensive upfront.

6. Not Taking Tours of the Assisted Living Facility Options

Senior living facilities won’t necessarily try to purposely deceive you. However, even real pictures of a facility can receive heavy touch-ups and staging. The best way to know what an assisted living facility is like is to go there yourself.

Tour as many assisted living facility options as you can. Write down some questions and ask them to the assisted living staff. You should also try to picture your loved one living in the space and how they would feel while they’re living there.

You may even try volunteering at certain living facilities if possible. This can help you learn what life is like for the seniors at the facility.

7. Making Your Final Decision Too Quickly

If your loved one needs assisted living care quickly, you may feel tempted to make the decision quickly. However, it’s dangerous to do things this way. Your loved one is likely to end up in a care facility that doesn’t meet his or her needs.

Take as much time as you can to make the decision. You can also get other family members to help you with the search. It’s highly important to make sure that your loved one is comfortable.

Consider Placing Your Loved One in Our Assisted Living Facility

It can take some extra time to ensure that your loved one will get the proper care that they need. However, you’ll be able to sleep better at night knowing that they’re being well taken care of.

If you live in Omaha county, consider checking our services out while you’re choosing assisted living facilities. Our trained professionals enrich the lives of our residents every day. Use the contact us form on this page to ask questions or schedule a tour of our facility.

The Cost of Assisted Living: What to Expect

Searching for the cost of assisted living? You’re not alone. In this article, you’ll learn what to expect in Omaha, Nebraska.

Currently, more than 810,000 adults reside in assisted living units across the US. Throughout their lifetime, seven out of ten adults will require an assisted living arrangement.

Consider that the adult population of those older than 85 will double by the year 2036. Then it will triple by the year 2049.

The question then becomes if all those needing it are prepared for the cost of assisted living.

It’s not surprising to know then that the US will need nearly one million new assisted living units by the year 2040. The challenge for many who need it will be paying for assisted living.

Read on to learn more about assisted living communities and what it costs to live in one.

What Is Assisted Living?

Assisted living is a type of living arrangement for seniors. Seniors can do some things on their own but can still get assistance for certain activities of daily living they can no longer perform for themselves.

Some seniors can still do things for themselves and still value their privacy. Yet, they need assistance with specific tasks like showering or meal preparation.

In assisted living, a senior may live in the following conditions:

  • Individual rooms,
  • Private apartments
  • Shared spaces

While the senior has their own space, often with their belongings, the staff is available to come in and support those activities they can’t safely handle on their own.

Factors Impacting Costs in Assisted Living Facilities

Before we take a closer look at assisted living costs, let’s consider what impacts the cost.

Costs for assisted living vary significantly across the country. Location is one factor for cost. Of course, if you live in a part of the country where the cost of living is high, you can expect the cost of assisted living to be higher too.

The size of the unit you choose for assisted living will impact the cost. Some seniors will choose small studio apartments, while others might choose units with more space. Obviously, the larger the unit, the higher the cost.

You can also get a range of services from assisted living. The level of care needed by the senior will impact cost, too.

Finally, many senior living facilities vary in their level of additional services and luxury options. This impacts cost as well.

Assisted Living Costs

Once you know the many factors that impact assisted living, you can understand how it’s tricky to discuss costs for this type of living.

So much of the cost will be impacted by the type of unit, services, and even location.

The median price of assisted living is $4,500 per month. It’s more valuable to consider the median cost than the average cost.

The median cost tells you that half the cost is higher than $4,500, and half is lower than $4,500 per month.

Pricing Models for Assisted Living Communities

When considering the price of assisted living, you should also consider how the pricing is presented. Assisted living communities typically offer three different pricing models for residents.

One option is the a la carte option. In this pay structure, you pay a base fee, then choose what services you need and add them based on what you need. This model is good because you only pay for exactly what you need.

The all-inclusive structure is almost the opposite of a la carte. The all-inclusive model includes all services and amenities for the overall cost. More luxury units are likely to have this pay structure.

All-inclusive is a nice option for seniors because they know they can always join activities or get assistance without wondering if they are paying for it.

In a tiered system, an assisted living community offers a tiered pay system based on the number of services needed. Most tiered pay options allow you to increase the number of services you need as your senior needs more care.

Assisted Living Base Fees

You’ll pay a base rate in most pay structures for assisted living. This includes certain services as part of the base rate.

These base services are likely to include:

  • Monthly rent
  • Utilities for the unit
  • Three meals and snacks for each day
  • Planned activities
  • Coordination of care
  • Housekeeping
  • Groundskeeping around the facility

Sometimes this also includes basic transportation options.

Add-On Fees for Assisted Living

Most assisted living communities offer a wide range of services beyond what you get from the base rate.

Some of these services include:

  • Medication management
  • Beauty services
  • Clothing purchases
  • Internet
  • Laundry
  • Pet fees
  • Medical fees and insurance
  • Additional transportation

Your senior may need more help with other activities of daily living, and that can be added to your costs.

How to Pay for Assisted Living

In the years going forward, not only will it be a challenge to find assisted living options, but paying for assisted living will also provide a challenge for many.

Paying for assisted living can be handled through:

  • Insurance
  • Private pay options
  • Public assistance programs
  • Veteran’s benefits
  • Private investments

As demand increases, so will cost likely increase. Planning for the cost of assisted living should be an important part of retirement planning for seniors.

Important Questions to Ask

As you consider assisted living options for a senior you love, there are some essential questions to consider beyond how much the assisted living cost per month.

Other questions might include:

  • What pay structure is used for assisted living?
  • What is included in the base cost for services?
  • What a la carte services are available?
  • How are a la carte services priced?
  • What floor plan options are available, and how much do they impact cost?
  • What options are available if the senior runs out of money?

You may also want to consider what other services beyond assisted living are offered. Are there higher levels of care if they become necessary?

You might also want to know how it’s handled if your senior needs more care over their stay in the assisted living unit.

Prepare for the Cost of Assisted Living

Assisted living is a blessing for seniors and families because they know the senior is safe and cared for. Yet, the cost of assisted living can be surprising for many families. It’s important to plan for potential future needs.

To learn more about assisted living options, we can help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help care for the senior in your life.

7 Benefits of Moving to an Active Senior Living Community

Did you know that by 2036, the number of adults over 85 will double, and by 2049, it will triple? This is why the US will need almost 1 million new places for seniors to live by 2040.

Growing older has numerous challenges. There’s no question that this can be a difficult moment in one’s life. However, it is also a period when you want to appreciate your life above everything else.

This is made possible by an active senior living community. When you determine that a retirement community is the right place for you, many doors will open for you.

Move to a vibrant community to meet people who live the same active lifestyle as you. Here are seven great things about it!

What Is Active Senior Living?

Most people living in an assisted living facility are active seniors who still do most of their daily tasks independently. So even if the seniors in assisted living have health problems, they don’t need to be cared for and watched over 24 hours a day.

They may be looking for a hassle-free way of life in a fun and active retirement community where they may meet new people and maintain existing relationships.

1. Gives You More ‘Me’ Time

It’s time to take care of yourself! Stop taking care of mundane things like:

  • The house
  • The yard
  • Other items in and around the house

Many active seniors can handle home ownership’s financial and emotional stress, but it’s simply unpleasant. We know that older individuals have more exciting things to do than:

  • Mowing the lawn
  • Weeding the garden
  • Cleaning the house
  • Even shoveling snow

It’s much easier living in an active assisted living community. All the menial day-to-day tasks are taken care of for you. This enables you to take the time to perhaps:

  • Try that new hobby you have wanted for so long
  • Finish that book
  • Complete that puzzle
  • Visit more friends

When you move to an active assisted living facility, you can do more things you love.

2. One Monthly Umbrella Fee

When you sum up your monthly living expenses in your own home, from cable and internet access to property taxes and everything else you spend on entertainment, you’ll find that senior living is less expensive than you expected.

All utilities are included in your monthly payment in an active assisted senior lifestyle. Some of these include:

  • Wireless internet
  • Basic cable
  • Phone services, including long distance

Another cost-cutting measure is on transport expenses. Most active senior living communities have on-site and transport options available to move around for trips into town centers.

3. Encourage Social Interaction

Seniors who live alone are more likely to feel more lonely and depressed or socially isolated. In active assisted living, older people live in a community with friends and staff who encourage them to participate in social activities.

Residents can try new hobbies, join a new fitness class, or even go on a trip to a part of the world they’ve never been to. This is all thanks to their active and varied activity calendars.

When seniors move into an active assisted senior lifestyle community, they quickly make new friends, get to know the staff and feel like they are part of a larger group of people in the same stage of life.

Moving to assisted living sooner can help active seniors avoid a sense of isolation that can lead to long-term loneliness, improving their physical well-being and overall wellness.

4. Provides Safety and Security

Accidents might happen even if you do not require personal care assistance. Both falls and injuries are possible, and if you live alone, the prospect of not receiving the necessary service can be frightening. Retirement communities have a warning system in each apartment house to promote safety and peace of mind.

There are also lifestyle packages with 24/7 nursing care for people with mild to serious health concerns to ensure your medical needs are constantly satisfied.

5. Keeps You Healthy and Happy

Even though these communities are great places to get personalized care, help is given with an eye toward independence and fun, making sure that residents do what they can and when. Having a good time and keeping healthy are integral to getting older well.

This senior lifestyle offers many ways to have fun and keep healthy. Some of the activities provided are:

  • Daily exercise classes
  • Walking or hiking
  • Daily yoga classes
  • Dance classes
  • Music Lessons
  • Even weight training

Also, the senior living amenities are at your fingertips, and you have the convenience of having so many things you like to do close to home.

6. Transport Made Easy

Active assisted living facilities step in to fill the transportation gap when you no longer want to, or your health no longer permits you to drive. For example, they will assist with transport in:

  • Taking residents to local stores, restaurants, and activities
  • Taking you to and from your medical appointments

Avoid hassling about car maintenance such as oil changes, servicing, car washing, or replacing parts. Additionally, traveling across town is made more accessible by in-house transportation options available to seniors.

7. Daily Healthy Balanced Meal Plans

Are you sick of preparing meals, shopping for ingredients, and cleaning up afterward? Residents in an active retirement community have access to three nutritious and delectable meals a day, expertly prepared by chefs.

A great restaurant-style dining area is an added perk. These dining areas often have majestic views overlooking well-manicured gardens. The bonus of eating your meals in the dining area is that it encourages residents to socialize with other guests over meals.

Enjoy a Happy and Relaxed Senior Lifestyle!

All of these benefits add up to the most important benefit, which is peace of mind. You can rest easy knowing that you are well cared for in an environment that feels like home and meets your needs.

Choose the active senior living community of your dreams now to take charge of your retirement and your future health. Contact us today for more information on our vibrant senior living community.

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