COVID-19 UPDATES

Assisted Living | Dog Park | Memory Care

Dog Park Added to Parsons House in Omaha

Updated: September 8, 2022 by

Parsons House Assisted Living adds a dog park to their assisted living facility!  More and more residential complexes are adding dog parks to their residential communities and now Omaha’s award-winning assisted living facility has one, too!

Parsons House Senior Living in Omaha, Nebraska offers Assisted Living and Memory Care to its residents.

dog park omaha

They feature several appealing amenities: beautiful apartments, individual climate control features, bistro café, pub, fitness area, salon services plus an array of social and recreational programs. And now a dog park!

What makes Parsons House even more unique is that the community is dog-friendly and just finished a dog park for its residents.

“We decided to add a dog park as many seniors have small dogs that they do not want to leave when they make a decision to move into an assisted living facility,”

What a fantastic amenity to Parsons House assisted living and memory care! Senior citizens certainly love their canine companions. And research supports the importance of dogs in the health and wellness of senior citizens. Studies show that dog-owning seniors have lower blood pressure and lower cholesterol than their petless peers. Having a dog also reduces the risk of heart attack — and boosts your chances of long-term survival if you have one.

Parsons House certainly goes the extra mile when it comes to providing amenities for its residents. As construction nears completion, residents are excited about all the changes…especially the dog-friendly park! As far as the new addition to Parsons House, it’s certainly a nice addition!

A Canine Friendly Park at Parsons House

  • Fenced in area
  • Conveniently located near entrances & exits
  • Artificial turf
  • Doggie Trash Receptacle

dog park omaha

Let’s face it. Dogs were built to run and jump outside. It’s in their DNA. Unfortunately, dogs are often confined indoors until they can get out either early in the morning or late in the evening for a walk. With a dog park, they can run, jump and play outside. According to the American Pet Products Association, there are 89.7 million dogs in the US in about 60 million households. It’s nice to see a senior living community like Parsons House take that next step and install a dog park for its residents and their dogs!

Dementia | Memory Care

The Best Brain Games for Seniors With Dementia

Updated: November 18, 2021 by

Parsons House in Omaha uses brain games for our seniors with dementia. It’s important to know that Dementia is a progressive brain disease that affects millions of people in just the United States. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, one in three seniors dies with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.

If you have a loved one who is suffering cognitively, there are a number of brain games for seniors that could help. Keep reading to learn more.

How Dementia Affects the Brain

Doctors and other medical professionals classify the severity of dementia by impairment level. Those levels include the following:

  • No impairment. The patient does not show any symptoms, but tests can indicate a problem.
  • Very mild decline. A patient’s behaviors may begin to change, but they will generally retain their independence.
  • Mild decline. Thinking and reasoning are affected, so patients may have a hard time recalling recent events and may repeat themselves often.
  • Moderate decline. It will be harder to make plans, remember events, travel, and handle finances.
  • Moderately severe decline. The patient may not remember basic information like the day of the week or their phone number, and they may need assistance with daily functions.
  • Severe decline. A severe decline involves forgetting the names of close loved ones and needing help eating and going to the restroom.
  • Very severe decline. At this stage, a patient can no longer walk or speak, which means they will spend most of their time in bed.

The stages of dementia and how they progress are different for every patient. Your loved one’s doctor may recommend certain treatments or admission into a nursing home facility, depending on the situation. You may feel helpless, but there are brain games for seniors with dementia that can help.

The Best Brain Games for Seniors

There are limitless games for adults with dementia, but it’s important to find the games that meet your loved one’s needs and interests. Keep reading to learn about the best mental exercises for seniors with dementia.

Crossword Puzzles
Crossword puzzles are available in book form and online. Depending on their cognitive abilities, your loved one may be able to complete one puzzle a week or even one per day. Thinking up solutions to the word clues can prompt memories and encourage skillful thinking.

Lumosity
Lumosity is an online program that offers more than 60 cognitive games. This brain-training program provides games that focus on memory, problem-solving, speed, and flexibility.

While there is a free version of the game, there is a subscription-based version as well. The benefit, particularly for patients with dementia, with the subscription-based plan is the in-depth insights on performance.

Bingo
Bingo may seem simple and common, but the game actually stimulates different senses, including hearing, touch, and sight. Players need to listen for the numbers being called, use pens or markers to mark the cards and understand the numbers on their cards.

Logic Puzzles
Logic puzzles help us with nontraditional, out-of-the-box thinking. Not only can they test a person’s ability to use the information they’re given, but they can help create solid memories and solutions. Logic puzzles are useful for individuals with dementia because they enable lateral thinking.

Jigsaw Puzzles
Jigsaw puzzles engage the left and right sides of the brain. This means that not only is a person’s creative side engaged, but they have to use logic to put the pieces together as well.

In addition to activating both sides of the brain, jigsaw puzzles can improve visuospatial functioning and provide people with social interaction, especially in long-term care facility settings.

Sudoku
Sudoku is a number game that is played on a 9×9 grid. Players need to observe the prefilled spaces and fill in the empty cells with numbers one through nine. Numbers cannot be duplicated in individual rows, columns, or regions.

Sudoku can be played on paper or a device like a tablet. The puzzle promotes logic, as well as memory.

Trivia
Trivia can be a group activity or a solo game. Depending on your loved one’s interests, you could tailor the questions to topics they already know well. If they’re looking for a challenge, you could ask questions about current events or history.

In addition to being an uplifting game, trivia also stimulates the mind and may be able to help with memory and recall.

Chess and Checkers
Chess and checkers are often overlooked, but both games can improve mental wellbeing and brain health. Both games, which have different degrees of difficulty, are about strategy and planning ahead. They can be played on a traditional game board with pieces or online.

Scrabble
Scrabble requires players to use logical thinking and strategy to construct words as if they are creating a crossword puzzle.

The traditional board game can be found at most big box stores, and there are also digital versions of the game that can be downloaded onto phones or tablets.

Simon
Simon, based on the game Simon Says, is played on an electronic disc. The disc has four colored buttons that each play a different sound when pressed. To win the game, you have to reproduce random sequences of lights and sounds.

Learn More About Caring for Your Loved One

A dementia diagnosis can be hard to cope with, which is why it’s crucial to ensure your loved one has access to the care they need to live a high-quality life for as long as possible.

While dementia is a progressive illness, the brain games for seniors discussed above can help your loved one slow down the progression of their symptoms. To learn more about caring for someone with dementia, click here. We’ve also found the Alzheimer’s Association of Nebraska as a terrific resource for those families dealing with Alzheimer’s disease.

Assisted Living | Memory Care

Elderly Parents: Transitioning to Assisted Living

Updated: November 18, 2021 by

Do you have elderly parents? There is no denying that there is a type of stigma around moving to an assisted living facility. Many seniors might view it as a serious blow to their independence. Understandably this is difficult to give up, no matter how old you are.

However, moving to an assisted living facility is quite the opposite. Yes, it’s a big adjustment for your elderly parents. But assisted living can actually improve an overall sense of independence, social interaction, and general well-being.

Granted, it’s a sensitive topic and a tough conversation to have. But there are ways to tackle it — here’s how.

Do Your Research Before Broaching the Topic
This is super important so that you can present the idea to your parents with thorough knowledge. It’s also a chance to approach the discussion with plenty of positive touchpoints that explain why assisted living could be beneficial.

Before you bring up the topic, do your research on the different types of assisted living available. As well as the different levels of care they provide and what your parents may need.

It’s also important to get a good idea of the cost of assisted living in your state, and whether you or your parents will be able to afford it. It’s crucial that you learn about your parent’s financial situation, and also be realistic about what they can or cannot afford.

All of the above information helps to minimize speculation in the minds of your parents (and yourself) and can help them understand what to expect.

Try To Approach the Subject Early On
The last thing your parents want or need is to feel like they’re being ambushed or pressurized into a huge life change. This is a surefire way for them to push back, and push back hard.

That’s why you don’t want to put off having this conversation for too long. In fact, you should make it part of an ongoing discussion about how they’re planning for their future. That way, the suggestion of assisted living may not come as such as surprise or shock.

Try to keep the conversation about it casual. Let them know that they don’t need to make any final decisions right away, but instead, it’s something for them to think about.

Keep Your Elderly Parents Involved

No matter how old your parents are, there is a high chance that they want a say in the type of future they have. Everyone wants to be able to choose where they live and spend their precious ”golden years”. That’s why it’s absolutely crucial to keep your parents in the loop when it comes to major decisions.

If they are in good health, ask them if they want to tour a few assisted living homes with you. This way they can get a feel for the facility and have their rightful say in the decision-making process.

Present the Idea in a Positive Manner
Transitioning to assisted living is a huge life change. If you think about it, your parents will have to move away from their family home, sell most of their possessions, and change their day-to-day routine. No matter how old you are, this type of lifestyle change is massive.

In order to soften the blow and make this change all the more bearable, you have to present the idea in the most positive light possible. Focus on the language you use and stick to affirming, non-threatening, and non-demeaning terms.

Don’t hint at a ”loss of independence”. Instead, talk about comfort, mention the amenities, refer to the positive aspects of social and community living. Be aware of using the term ”room” — try to use the terms condo or apartment, instead.

Your tone of voice is also impactful. Try to speak in a calm and pleasant tone. Remember that it’s always a two-way conversation. Always allow your parents to have their opinions and have their say.

Acknowledge the Big ”What Ifs”
Now, this part of the conversation is never easy, but there’s no way to avoid it. You have to talk about the major ”what if” situations that could face your parents in the future.

Some of these scenarios might include the death of a parent, leaving the other parent alone. Or, it might include the sale of your family home and what to do with all their possessions.

By having this conversation with your parents you can get an idea of their wishes, which can help you to make better decisions for their future — if you need to.

Recognize Why Your Parents Might Not Be Ready
If there was any time for empathy, it’s during this type of conversation with your parents. It’s important to acknowledge and recognize why your parent(s) might be resistant to the idea of moving to assisted living.

If you put yourself in their shoes, you might understand why they’re feeling so reluctant. While most seniors know, deep down, that assisted living is most likely their final residence, it’s still very difficult to come to terms with for many people.

Essentially, moving to an assisted living facility may signify the twilight or ”end of life” stage for your parents. For many, this is an impossible reality to face. So, have empathy and patience, and remember to keep your responses measured and tactful.

Understand Their Progression of Illness
If your parents are diagnosed with a chronic illness or condition, such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s, this adds a whole other dimension to the discussion.

You want to do your own research on their specific condition and how it will progress. You need to learn about the type of care they’ll need and the best type of facility for this before you open up the discussion with them.

While it may be difficult, you want to openly discuss what could lie ahead for your parent(s), and be realistic about the type of care they’ll need. All in all, this research and reality check on both parts can help you to make the best-informed decision for their future.

Find Your Future With Parsons House
Do you have elderly parents that are looking for a warm, welcoming, and secure assisted living environment? Look no further than Parsons House on Eagle Run.

Based in Omaha, we are a family-owned award-winning Best of Omaha property that promises to provide an amazing quality of life for all seniors. We center our care on compassion and living life to the fullest.

If you’re interested in learning more about what we offer, explore our assisted living services here.

Assisted Living | Dementia | Memory Care

The Difference Between Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease

Updated: November 18, 2021 by

Did you know that more than 50 million people have dementia, and 10 million cases are added every year? This chronic and insidious disease is the source of a lot of heartache in the afflicted and their family members.

This heartache is often compounded by a lack of understanding about the condition. For instance, many people don’t know the difference between dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Understanding your loved one’s condition is key when it comes to determining the level of care that they need.

In the spirit of making this difficult decision easier, we’ve put together this guide to Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, so you and your family can tackle this obstacle while armed with knowledge. Read on to learn more!

What Is the Difference Between Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease?

Dementia is an umbrella term for a group of disorders with similar symptoms. There are many different types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s. If a disorder is classified as dementia, it means it affects the person’s memory, thinking, language, problem-solving abilities, and visual perception.

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia and makes up 70% of cases. However, there are several other kinds of dementia including:

  • Lewy body dementia
  • Frontotemporal disorders due to damage to the brain
  • Huntington’s disease
  • Creutzfeld-Jakob disease
  • Chronic traumatic encephalopathy due to TBI
  • Some people can have multiple forms of dementia at the same time. This is referred to as mixed dementia.

Signs of Dementia

Dementia, regardless of type, begins with forgetfulness. People with dementia will often forget items, lose track of time, and have difficulty navigating familiar locations. They might also have trouble sleeping and will display inappropriate social behaviors.

As the disorder progresses, the confusion grows.

Ultimately, the affected will have trouble remembering names and faces. They will have trouble taking care of themselves. At this point, dementia is easy to recognize through repetitive questioning and poor personal hygiene.

People with dementia end up unable to care for themselves and won’t be able to keep track of time, people, or familiar locations. Mood changes are common, and the affected is often depressed or aggressive.

Causes of Dementia

Although dementia doesn’t have a specific cause, there are a few factors that increase the risk of the disorder. Age is the main risk factor, as almost 50% of people over 85 experience some form of dementia.

Other risk factors include:

  • Chronic drug use
  • Alcohol consumption
  • Vitamin deficiencies
  • Traumatic head injury
  • Depression
  • HIV
  • Vascular diseases
  • Stroke

Although none of these factors can cause dementia, they have been linked to a higher rate of developing the disorder. In addition, untreated depression, loneliness, a sedentary lifestyle, and isolation are all linked to increased risk of dementia.

What Is Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. Alzheimer’s is the result of a tangle of protein and plaque in the brain. These tangles can cloud brain cells, preventing them from communicating and functioning.

When the plaque builds up in the hippocampus, the memory is affected. In some cases, the brain will shrink. The cause of this build-up is still unknown.

Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease

There is some overlap between dementia and Alzheimer’s symptoms, but there are also a few differences. Alzheimer’s disease is a name for a more targeted disease, so the symptoms are more specific.

Alzheimer’s begins with trouble remembering and confusion over places, times, and people. Over time, disorientation grows and the person will experience mood changes. In addition, they will often be suspicious of people around them.

They might also have trouble with motor skills specifically walking and swallowing.

They’ll experience impaired judgment and apathy, often resulting in depression. Unlike other forms of dementia, people with Alzheimer’s are unlikely to have involuntary movement or trouble with balance. The primary symptoms involve memory and cognition.

Treatment

Unfortunately, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s or dementia. There are ways to reduce symptoms and prolong the lifespan, but the disease is irreversible. Prompt treatment is the best way to keep symptoms minimal and manage them.

The treatment for dementia and Alzheimer’s overlap due to the overlap in the two conditions. However, treatment is targeted to the specific type of dementia.

Some medications can help improve behavioral changes and reduce inappropriate behavior. In addition, other medications can help with memory loss, depression, and sleep changes. The patient might also supplement their diet with fish oil and coconut oil to improve brain function.

Sometimes, full treatment isn’t possible from home. As the disease progresses, people with dementia and Alzheimers also benefit from a dedicated care team. Moving into an assisted living facility can greatly improve quality of life by helping with daily care and dedicated memory care.

An assisted living facility like Parsons House can provide dementia patients with a community and therapy developed by a memory care specialist. They can remain active while maintaining memory and brain function.

In addition, social isolation and loneliness can make dementia progress more quickly, so community living can help manage symptoms and slow the advance.

Get Care for Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease Today

Now that you understand the difference between dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, you know why seeking care early is important. Prompt treatment from memory care professionals can help slow the decline and preserve the brain function of your loved ones.

If your loved one is experiencing Alzheimer’s or any other kind of dementia, reach out to us at Parsons House on Eagle Run. We have experienced professionals on hand who can help prepare a care plan for your family. Parsons House is an award-winning Best of Omaha Assisted Living & Memory Care facility. Contact us today to learn more!

Assisted Living | Memory Care | Parsons House Senior Living

Senior Living Facility in Omaha: Top 8 Features

Updated: June 20, 2021 by

Are you on the search for the right senior living arrangement for a family member?

Choosing to transition a loved one to a living facility is never an easy decision. That’s why it’s important to know that your chosen facility has all the best features. This way, it’s easy to know that your family member is getting all the care and luxuries they deserve.

If you’re uncertain what makes one facility better than another, keep reading. We’ll go through each feature to make it simple for you and your family to find the right match.

Specialized Care

The first thing to check when picking a suitable place for aging parents is the type of care the facility provides. Do they offer specific care for your parent’s medical needs? Will they know how to react during an emergency?

For example, the risks of Alzheimer’s require a professional hand to give the person the right kind of care. It would be a bad match for everyone involved if the facility doesn’t have personnel with the necessary experience.

If your loved one suffers from Alzheimer’s or any other type of medical issue, make sure that the facility knows how to deal with it.

 

Many Activities

Fun activities in which to fill the day are an important part of lowering stress and increasing happiness. Make sure to investigate how many activities the facility offers, and how often a resident gets to participate in them.

There should be a variety of things to do, including activities like playing lots of different games, puzzle-solving, and movie watching.

Events are also a good thing to check. Does the facility do anything special for the big holidays throughout the year? Will your parent get recognition during their next birthday?

These types of things make a facility feel even more like home. Julie Grady, the activities director at Parsons House, develops an activities schedule each month for our senior living community. Residents and their family members can access this activities calendar on the Parsons House website. Click here to learn more information..

 

Sense of Community

One of the biggest benefits of a facility dedicated to senior living is the fact that your loved one is never alone. There are many opportunities for them to interact with all kinds of other people, including their carers and their neighbors.

A thriving senior living community is the best kind of place for your parent. This ensures that they’ll never feel alone and they’ll always have someone to talk to they need a friend.

If you visit the facility before you’ve chosen one, make sure to bring your loved one with you. This way, they’ll get a better sense of whether or not they’ll feel comfortable within the community.

Friendly Staff

It’s always recommended that you take some time to visit your chosen facility before beginning the transition phase. Talk to the staff and get to know them a little better. Ask them all of your questions so that you understand the process even more.

These are the people you’re relying on to take care of someone important, so you need to feel confident in their abilities.

Friendliness is also a key factor. No one wants to leave a cherished parent with a facility that doesn’t have any interest in pleasantries. This makes the residents feel less at ease and can increase stress.

Variety of Amenities

What kind of amenities does the facility offer? Is there a shallow swimming pool for low-impact exercise? Are there places to sit outside so that the residents get plenty of sunlight and fresh air?

Each facility has a unique experience to offer its residents by way of its amenities. It’s a good idea to pick a place that has many of the types of things that your loved one values.

If they love to read while sitting outside, it wouldn’t make sense to pick a facility that doesn’t have many benches or patios outside.

Make sure to talk to your parent and ask them what kind of amenities would make the transition easier and more enjoyable for them.

Nutritious Meals

The type of food your parent eats while in their new home is vital to their health. Not only does the food need to be nutritious but it also needs to be delicious so that they’ll be inclined to eat it.

Many senior citizens struggle with appetite, so picking a facility with a great chef is a huge asset for many families. It makes it easier to know that your loved one is keeping a full and healthy diet.

Don’t forget to talk to the staff and ask about the regular meals offered to residents. Make sure to ask about how a resident’s specific dietary needs are met so you know how to ensure your parent gets the foods they need.

Cosmos Awortwi, is the director of food services at Parsons House. Cosmos takes great pride in making sure the needs of each resident are taken care of.

 

Vibrant Decor

Assisted living facilities don’t need to be drab and boring. In fact, they should be the opposite. Take a walk through the facility and see the decorations for yourself.

The hallways at Parsons House in Omaha feature fresh-vibrant colors!

 

If you get the sense that the decorations are lacking, it might be a good idea to pick a different place. You want your loved one to feel excited about staying in the facility. A facility with boring aesthetics won’t make anyone excited.

Parsons House is undergoing an extensive remodel which includes the addition of a Bistro, Tavern, Spa, and Wellness Center.

Good Location

The location of the facility needs to have a good balance of privacy, natural beauty, and easy travel times. It won’t be a good match if you need to drive several hours each time you want to visit your loved one. Try to find a local place that makes it easy for you to visit as much as you want.

In addition, the facility should have a lot of good views so that the residents enjoy every aspect of the facility. A place with plenty of trees and vibrant plants is a good choice!

Parsons House, an award-winning-best-of-Omaha senior living community, is conveniently located near 144th & Maple in Omaha.

The Perfect Senior Living Facility Incorporates All of These Features

By choosing a senior living facility that has all of these important features, you’re ensuring that your loved one enjoys every single day to the fullest. You’ll rest easy knowing that they’re getting the right kind of professional care in a place that offers a high quality of life.

Make sure to contact us today and we’ll help you and your family through every step of the transition!

Assisted Living | Parsons House Senior Living

Luxury & Lifestyle at Parsons House

Updated: May 20, 2021 by

Luxury & lifestyle are just two of the words being used to describe the renovations underway at Parsons House assisted living & memory care in Omaha. Ensuring residents feel at home is a big part of what Parsons House does. Accomplishing that means offering the amenities and accommodations you expect at home. Parsons House is currently renovating its community. They’re proud to provide residents delicious food, pet-friendly living, a beauty parlor, entertainment, private dining, worship services, and daytime trips.

Parsons House is a family-owned property with long ties to the Omaha community. Kim Reeves and her husband, Andrew believe the primary focus should be entirely on compassion, quality care, and living life to the fullest. Kim and Andrew make every effort to provide for their resident’s needs and wants. They’re excited about the renovation that is underway. The newest additions will build upon an already state-of-the-art assisted living and memory care facility and make it one of the most unique facilities in the region.

Renovations of Parsons House commenced in March of 2021. Here are just a few of the renovations scheduled to be finished this year:

  • Bistro:  A casual and relaxed atmosphere where residents and families can enjoy a bowl of soup, a sweet roll, a cup of coffee, and good company.

 

  • Tavern: The Parson’s House pub is a place to meet and visit with friends. Residents can come and enjoy a beer while watching a football game. Our residents can belly up to the bar or relax in a lounge-style gathering area.

 

  • Spa: Parsons House is taking their beauty parlor to the next level! Their “Reflexions” spa is a calm, beautiful resort-style space that allows residents to revive, relax and unwind. A place to pamper yourself with a manicure, fresh do, or a good conversation.

 

  • Multi-purpose room:  Health and wellness are very important to Parson’s House.  Their multi-purpose room will offer a variety of exercise equipment and consistent activity programming.  Their goal is to promote and sustain their resident’s overall safety, physical and social well-being.

 

Luxury & lifestyle at Parsons House where a team of trained professionals enriches the lives of residents every single day. As residents transition through different stages of life, receiving the proper care and having access to these types of amenities is the key to experiencing happiness and enjoying a fulfilled life. That’s what living at Parsons House is all about. Love, luxury & lifestyle.

Parsons House invites you and your family to visit Parsons House Senior Living Omaha. Their award-winning best of Omaha team would be happy to give you a tour and to discuss your questions and specific needs.

Assisted Living

Best Assisted Living Facilities

Updated: April 20, 2021 by

The best assisted living facilities share the same five traits. Assisted living facilities in Omaha are no different. When it’s time to consider senior housing for yourself or a loved one, it’s never a decision you want to take lightly. You want to do your research of Omaha assisted living facilities and be confident that you’re making the right choice, and select the best-assisted living facility for your unique situation. Finding the right fit for your loved one is always the goal.

Most people are making this decision for the very first time. They have no experience and little guidance on how to go about finding a good fit. Beyond checking out assisted living features and amenities, you may be wondering what else you should be looking for. Understanding some of the traits the best-assisted living facilities in Omaha is a great place to start. Asking a lot of questions can go a long way in reassuring you in your decision on which assisted living facility is the best fit for your loved one.

What is Assisted Living?

If an older adult needs some assistance with daily activities, such as getting dressed, eating, and bathing, but does not require the medical support offered at a nursing home or higher level of care, an assisted living facility is one housing alternative to explore. Assisted living can be found in standalone facilities, within retirement communities, or attached to nursing homes. Parsons House in Omaha is a multi-year Best of Omaha award-winning assisted living facility located near 156th & Maple.

So, what are the most common traits in the best assisted living facilities? Read on!

1. The best-assisted living facilities in Omaha exceed the minimum requirements required by local, state, and national authorities. 

It may seem impressive to learn an assisted living facility offers 24-hour staffing, help with activities of daily living (ADLs), support for health care needs, and housekeeping, laundry, and transportation services. But, these are all minimum requirements, according to the Health in Aging Foundation. The best-assisted living facilities go far beyond these basic needs. Does the facility you are researching foster social interaction within the community? Do they offer opportunities to nurture their creativity? Can your loved ones pursue their hobbies? What steps are taken when your loved one has an issue?

Ask great questions to ensure the facility you choose for your loved one matches the level of support, care and social interaction needed.

2. The best-assisted living facilities employ team members who love what they do!  

Award-winning assisted facilities like Parsons House employ a wide range of team members, from health care providers and administrative professionals to support staff to dining hall and cooks to facility maintenance workers. Working in an assisted living facility is more than just a job. Parsons House goes to great lengths to attract the best talent in the community and keep them happily and gainfully employed! Parsons House recently recognized dozens of team members for reaching 5, 10, 15, and even 20 years of employment at Parsons House!

When researching and touring facilities in Omaha, we encourage you to take time to talk to team members and observe the interactions between them and residents. Do these interactions seem friendly and cordial? Or do interactions seem rushed and forced? The relationships between residents and the individuals who care for them can be indicators of the community culture.

3. The best assisted living facilities tailor services to meet the needs of the individual

Our individual needs become especially important when we entrust our care to someone else. Your loved one deserves a community that will take into account the unique needs of each resident — a community that goes well beyond their health care needs. The best facilities go beyond a resident’s health status. They also appeal to a person’s personal interests, emotional health, and the very human need of social interaction.

Keep in mind while you’re researching that you are looking for a great fit for the whole person, not just their health care needs.

4. The best assisted living facilities nurture relationships

The secret sauce of any top-tier or award-winning facility is its ability to go the extra mile to promote social activities and nurture relationships between residents and their family members. Parsons House has a full-time activities director who has developed an extensive activities schedule that appeals to a wide range of interests. While doing your research, check to see if the facility publishes an activities calendar. We encourage you to visit or tour the facility while these activities are taking place.

5. The best-assisted living facilities don’t compromise the quality of life

As a loved one, you’re likely researching facilities based on the need for additional support and care with daily activities. Yes, that’s important. The best facilities focus on the overall quality of life of each resident including social interaction, physical activity, spirituality, independence, and purpose. Sometimes these needs can be met through community involvement, mentoring opportunities, and volunteering. Finding an assisted living community that offers the right level of support and amenities can make a real difference when evaluating the overall quality of life a resident can expect.

Overwhelming 

Choosing the right assisted living facility for your loved one can leave you feeling overwhelmed. It’s natural to have a lot of questions and concerns. Knowing what to look for and asking the right questions may give you some peace of mind. Don’t ever stop asking questions. Staying engaged in the care of your loved one can be a meaningful experience, too!

Assisted Living | Memory Care

Anonymous Easter Bunny Visits Parsons House

Updated: April 7, 2021 by

What a selfless act — the anonymous gift. We have supporters here at Parsons House who prefer to stay anonymous and truly anonymous — no mention of their names anywhere, not in our newsletters, not on the walls of Parsons House or plaques. What a powerful way to embrace the Parsons House senior living community!

And even if someone’s name is known, many of the gifts made through their work are truly anonymous. Examples abound and we were reminded of that earlier this week. An anonymous donor dropped off 156 Easter surprises for our residents. Our residents may never meet the anonymous Easter bunny who is making a difference in the life of our residents. Gifts like these are a constant source of joy and happiness which uplifts not only our resident but their family members too.

The concept of “random acts of kindness” is one of those anonymous gestures. All of us have heard about the donors who play “Santa Claus” over the holidays, giving out random gifts at senior living communities but this week was different. The anonymous Easter bunny helped uplifted our spirits just in time for Easter.

On behalf of everyone at Parsons House, we would like to extend our thanks. We’re grateful for the thought and generosity.

Dementia | Memory Care | Parsons House Senior Living

Activities for Dementia Patients in Omaha

Updated: March 22, 2021 by

5 million Americans have some form of Dementia that progresses as they get older. As time goes on, someone with Dementia finds themselves having trouble remembering things that have happened in their lives or are happening around them.

Those caring for them, whether at home or in assisted living, must find activities for dementia patients to participate in to help stimulate their minds daily. Below we’re going to share some of our favorite activities with you that can be used to help people with Dementia. Parsons House is an award-winner senior living community in Omaha with a focus on dementia patients. Here are a 7 fun and engaging activities you can try at home. Are you looking for a senior living community in the Omaha area with a focus on memory care? If so, please contact us to learn more about Parsons House. Otherwise, keep reading!

1. Talk About the Past

In people that have Dementia, often their long-term memory is much better than people expect it to be. For this reason, one of the best activities for dementia patients to do is spend time talking about the past.

It will help them reminisce about their childhood and memories they made with their families as they were growing up. It’s also beneficial to spend time talking about their past because it helps the person feel involved in what’s going on around them.

When you’re sitting around talking about these memories, we encourage you to capture the stories your loved one tells on some type of recording device. When they forget, you can take out one of the tapes and play the stories for them.

Sometimes it helps to jog their memory, and sometimes it’s just something that they’ll enjoy listening to even if they don’t remember telling the story themselves.

2. Exercise

We aren’t saying take them to a CrossFit class, but there are many benefits that someone with Dementia can take advantage of when exercising. Exercising can help someone with Dementia reduce the risk that they will develop depression that can easily happen when left inside all day.

It’s also helpful when it comes to helping their bodies remain strong and improving their overall mood.

3. Animal Therapy Classes

Who doesn’t love getting a wet kiss from a puppy or cuddling with a kitten? There’s something about feeling the soft fur of an animal that instantly puts a smile on the faces of people no matter what they’re going through.

We recommend that you check the resources in your area to find a place where you can take your loved one to interact with pets. Or, if you know of a close family member or friend, you might want to ask them if they’re willing to come over a couple of times a week and allow your loved one to spend some time with their pet.

Frequent pet therapy has been known to improve the mood of those interacting with animals because it increases the brain’s serotonin chemical.

4. Listen to Music

Several studies are conducted to show a link between the benefits of using music to aid in helping the memory of those who have Dementia. Music can be used to stimulate the way someone responds to things around them.

Often people with Dementia find themselves becoming frustrated because of the things they do and don’t understand. Music can help them to remain in a state of calm, and it can also help their mood.

There are tons of applications that can be downloaded to create a specific playlist that your loved one can sit and listen to whenever they want.

5. Try a Puzzle

Doing puzzles can help to increase a person with Dementia’s memory. That’s why when you were younger, people always told you to do crosswords and other puzzles that forced you to think about your next move.

Several puzzles come in several shapes and sizes you can do with your loved one. If they become frustrated with the puzzle, take a break and come back to it later.

6. Folding Clothes or Towels

We know you probably are reading this activity and wondering how anyone can find this enjoyable. The idea is to keep your loved one engaged no matter the outcome.

They might not remember how to fold a pair of pants or a towel, but when you look at their faces, you can tell how grateful they feel to be doing something like this with you. It provides them a sense of normalcy and allows them to feel like just because they have Dementia doesn’t mean they can’t do certain things.

7. Do Some Crafts

There are tons of crafts that you can find online for people to do. Again, this is another suggestion where someone can use their hands and remain engaged instead of sitting down doing nothing.

Once they’ve finished a task, you can create a keepsake box that’s filled with all the crafts they’ve done over time. When they’re having a bad day, take out the keepsake box and show them the items they’ve created.

It’s a wonderful way to diffuse a situation that could easily escalate into something more serious.

Activities for Dementia Patients

There are several activities for dementia patients that you can use to help them remain engaged and upbeat throughout the day. You can find several crafts to do online that your loved one will enjoy participating in, and you should also try doing a puzzle.

If you find that it’s time for your loved one to make the transition from living at home to moving into a facility, contact Parsons House on Eagle Run. We’ve got the information you need to help your loved one make a smooth transition into assisted living.

Let us help you make Parsons House their new home and get them the round-the-clock care that they deserve.

Memory Care | Parsons House Senior Living

Memory Care Omaha

Updated: March 18, 2021 by

Google Memory Care Omaha, and you’ll find dozens of results. The decision to seek specialized residential care for a loved one is challenging. Parsons House is the area’s foremost provider of residence-based memory care that we call, The Cottages.

Our award-winning Best of Omaha caregivers are often able to offer the type of service that simply couldn’t be provided at home. With unrivaled expertise in the Omaha area and a caring heart, we go above and beyond to provide your loved ones with the comprehensive care they deserve in a safe, nurturing environment.

No one experiences dementia alone. At Parsons House in Omaha, we’re here to help you navigate this difficult journey with understanding and respect. Our compassionate caregivers will provide your loved ones with the care they need and the vibrant life they deserve in an engaging, protective environment that our Cottages at Parsons House provides.

We focus on finding joy in everyday pleasures in all that we do. Our residents in The Cottages enjoy daily activities and outings into the local community to add interest and fun to their days. We celebrate together, tell stories, play, and live. We believe you’ll think of this next chapter as a meaningful continuation of your loved one’s story.

Earning the Best of Omaha designation for Memory Care Omaha goes far beyond our always improving state-of-the-art facilities and best-in-class clinical care, we believe that heart plays a huge role in helping our residents lead meaningful lives at Parsons House. Our caregivers engage with residents of our cottages on a daily basis in a genuine, caring way. We want to learn about family history, careers, hobbies, and childhood stories to foster close relationships in our community. We welcome you, along with family and friends, to visit and participate in activities with loved ones. We strictly adhere to the guidelines of local & state health officials. During the pandemic, some activities and personal contact may be restricted. Please know that we want you here as much as possible. At Parsons House, your family becomes our family, and ours becomes yours.

Our Cottages and memory care programs in Omaha are designed to ensure that residents thrive in mind, body, and spirit. We encourage you to learn more about our floor plans and activities by visiting our website. Please contact us directly if you have additional questions about memory care in Omaha!

1 2 3 4 5