Category: News

Whether you live at home or in a retirement community, we all tend to slow down when the chilly weather moves in for the winter. For seniors, staying active – at any level – is one of life’s best secrets. As many active adults say, “move it or lose it” applies.

For seniors living at home, staying active might present challenges as the effort to navigate the snow and ice – and fear of falling – is very real, and developing a home exercise program can feel daunting. It might be easier for those living in a retirement community as most offer a wide range of activities, including wellness programs. At Jackson Creek Senior Living, our wellness team spends extra time in the winter developing programs and activities for our residents that encourage ongoing movement to help enhance flexibility, prevent falls, and boost mental and physical health.

No matter where you live, here are seven great, safe, and enjoyable options to keep moving:

1. Indoor Exercise Classes

• Yoga, Tai Chi, or Pilates: These gentle exercises improve flexibility, balance, and strength. Many community centers offer senior-friendly classes, and online options are widely available as well. Our senior living community has several regular wellness program options and dedicated space for developing an exercise routine to keep the blood pumping and add to overall wellness.
• Indoor Walking Groups: Malls often have dedicated hours for walkers, which is a great option for a flat, climate-controlled environment. And if you live in a retirement community, simply walking the halls or taking the stairs if you can add up.
• Dance Classes: Low-impact dance, like ballroom or line dancing, can be a fun, social way to stay active.

2. Home-Based Workouts

• Exercise DVDs or Online Videos: There are many routines specifically designed for seniors, from seated exercises to standing routines.
• Resistance Bands and Light Weights: Small, portable equipment like resistance bands or light dumbbells can enhance strength training routines at home.

3. Swimming and Water Aerobics

• Indoor pools provide a warm, accessible way for seniors to exercise without stressing their joints. Many pools offer water aerobics classes that are gentle yet effective for fitness. While we do not have an onsite pool, a nearby recreation center offers a great venue and we can support residents with transportation.

4. Join a Gym or Fitness Center

• Many gyms have low-cost or insurance-subsidized memberships for seniors, providing access to treadmills, stationary bikes, and light resistance machines. Some fitness centers also offer senior-specific classes and wellness programs. Our therapy and fitness spaces also offer great views of Pike’s Peak as a bonus while working out.

5. Balance and Strength Training

• Simple home routines focusing on balance exercises can be beneficial in reducing fall risk. Common options include standing on one leg, heel-to-toe walking, and gentle stretching routines. Study after study indicates that weight training, even light weights, can help bone density significantly.

6. Bundle Up and Go Outdoors When Possible

• If it’s not icy, outdoor walks can still be an option. Dress in layers, wear appropriate footwear and choose a safe, flat area. Consider walking with poles for extra stability.

7. Stay Social with Virtual Fitness Groups

• Staying motivated can be easier with friends. Virtual fitness groups let seniors connect, set fitness goals, and exercise together via video chat, creating an interactive experience even from home.

Encouraging a mix of social and solo activities can keep winter fitness fun and manageable, boosting both physical health and overall well-being.

Jackson Creek Senior Living, located in Monument, Colorado offers independent living, assisted living, and memory support housing and care. The community encourages seniors, whether they live at home or in a retirement community, to maintain a good level of physical activity during the winter, for both mental and physical wellness. For more information about Jackson Creek Senior Living, including our specialized exercise classes for individuals living with Parkinson’s, visit jacksoncreekseniorliving.com or give us a call at 719-259-1331.

Holidays can be challenging for caregivers and families of individuals living with Alzheimer’s and related dementia. To reduce stress, experts offer some practical advice on how to create a positive and supportive environment during the holidays, ranging from setting realistic expectations to focusing on familiar traditions.

We caught up with Never Alone Consulting Founder Paula Levy, who has worked in geriatrics for more than 30 years, in particular working with family caregivers and individuals living with dementia, on how to cope during the holidays.

Paula reminds us that with the holiday season just around the corner, it’s always nice to pull out the decorations that represent significant remembrances, which stir up fond memories and traditions that have come to mean so much to us and our loved ones.

“But when a family member is diagnosed with dementia, holidays take on a whole new look and dimension and, more often than not, families are not prepared or sometimes even refuse to acknowledge that things need to change,” she says. She suggests many families just try to “push through it,” maintaining the same traditions, and this might cause stress for both you and your loved one living with dementia.

Paula suggests that with some adjustment and forethought, holidays still can mean just as much, if not more, as families learn to adjust to new and simpler traditions. “Scaling down your holiday gatherings will not only make the time less stressful for your loved one, but it will likely be less stressful for you and everyone else involved too,” she says. “The lower the expectation, the better the outcome.”

Some tips for managing expectations for gatherings with loved ones living with dementia over the holidays include:

• Maintain a simple routine. Stick to familiar routines as much as possible to reduce confusion and anxiety, and plan activities during the time of day when the person is most alert.
• Set realistic expectations. Communicate with family members ahead of time about what to expect and how to interact in a patient and supportive manner. Keep family gatherings small or consider having a quiet room where the person with dementia can take breaks if needed.
• Focus on comfort and familiarity. Play familiar music or songs that have special meanings as they can help stimulate memory. Create a calming atmosphere and keep decorations simple and familiar to avoid overstimulation or confusion.
• Include them in simple activities. Encourage participation in activities individuals with cognitive decline can manage, such as looking through photo albums, helping to set the table, or other simple tasks. Watch for signs of fatigue or stress, and shift to a quieter activity if needed.
• Be patient and flexible. Conversations may need to be adapted. Avoid correcting or arguing with the person if they become confused, and if they do, redirect the conversation to something soothing.
• Watch for signs of overload. Pay attention to body language or behavior changes that signal frustration or fatigue and be prepared to shorten the visit or adjust plans for the well-being of the person with dementia.
• Keep meals relaxed. Avoid complex meals that could be challenging for the person to manage, serving food that is easy to eat and familiar to them.
• Encourage family education. Help family members understand that changes in behavior are part of the disease and not intentional. Share tips you might know with others who are less familiar with the disease.
• Celebrate traditions thoughtfully. Reminisce with stories and traditions that they may remember but do so without pressure. Consider adapting your traditions to allow for engagement without too much stimulation.

Caregivers should remember to take care of their well-being too and seek support when needed. Approaching holiday gatherings with flexibility and empathy can make them more enjoyable and meaningful for everyone involved.

Jackson Creek Senior Living offers a continuum of living options for seniors 62+ living in El Paso County, including dementia care at its Creekside memory support community. Paula Levy is a frequent guest speaker and roundtable facilitator at Jackson Creek. If you would like more information on how to cope with the holidays for an individual living with dementia or to learn about our services or family friendly caregiver support groups, please visit us online at jacksoncreekseniorliving.com or call 719-259-1331.

The Cleveland Clinic defines caregiver burnout as a state of “physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion,” which can negatively impact your ability to continue caring for your loved one. When caring for a loved one living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias, it’s essential to learn how to cope with daily challenges, protect your own health and avoid burnout.

Here are five tips from the Alzheimer’s Association to help you manage the demands of caregiving and avoid burnout.

1. Prioritize Your Health

Caregivers often get caught up in monitoring the health of their loved ones, and they neglect their own health. If you get too sick and rundown to care for your spouse or family member, their health could also suffer. See your doctor annually and be attentive to your health. If you have a cough or aches and pains that linger, be sure to tell your physician. Don’t ignore a persistent headache or chronic sleeplessness. Report any unusual symptoms to your doctor and prioritize your health and well-being.

2. Eat Well and Exercise

Making sure your diet is healthy and balanced like you do for your loved one will help you maintain your energy levels and overall strength. Take time for regular physical exercise, and don’t skip meals or resort to the drive-thru. Instead, plan to eat the same healthy meals you serve your loved one and find small breaks in the day when a loved one is napping to get in a few minutes of yoga or stream a workout class. There are also ways you can be active with the person with dementia like going for a walk together, doing seated exercises at home, or dancing in the living room.

3. Manage Stress

You cannot avoid stress entirely, but you don’t have to let it overwhelm you. One of the best stress relievers is to give yourself a break. You are doing the best you can and deserve time for yourself! Constant stress leads to poor mental and physical health and can cause your loved one to feel stressed, too. For both your sakes’ find ways to relax and unwind every day.

4. Accept Things for What They Are

Alzheimer’s and dementia are progressive, and you cannot change or control that. All you can do is your best and not feel guilty that you should be doing more. Your loved one’s needs are going to change, and a day may come when you can no longer care for them at home. Accepting this and planning for when that time comes will give you peace of mind about their future. A memory support community like Jackson Creek Senior Living provides families guidance and information to begin their memory support search and holds events to share resources so caregivers realize they are not alone and it’s okay to ask for help and support.

5. Ask for Help

No matter how hard you try, you cannot do everything by yourself. You will need help sometimes. Family members, neighbors, church members, or in-home care providers are people you can, and should, reach out to for help now and then. Another good option to explore is short-term respite care. At Jackson Creek, we provide a quality respite care solution for caregivers’ temporary needs. Whether you need a few days off for a family vacation, a work trip or just to recharge, our furnished apartments offer a safe, comfortable environment with 24/7 care staff, life-enrichment activities, and all the comforts of home.

Respite care is also an excellent way to prepare yourself and your loved one for the time when their needs may be better served in a memory support community. Becoming aware of local resources and exploring options ahead of time, can help make the transition easier for you and your loved one.

At Jackson Creek Senior Living, we help families find the best living situation to meet their loved one’s needs. Call 719-259-1331 or visit jacksoncreekseniorliving.com if you have questions about our memory support program or short-term respite care services.

At Jackson Creek Senior Living, we were pleased to hear the theme for 2024 National Assisted Living Week was “Inspiring Generations,” a topic that is dear to our hearts. Since the retirement community opened in 2018, the leadership and team members have been inspired by the elder generation we support and the families we connect with along the journey. And we make it part of our mission to connect younger generations with older seniors to foster positive memories, boost our resident’s well-being, and help bridge the gap between older and younger generations. As we all know, our elders have a wealth of experiences and knowledge we could benefit from if we took the time to listen and learn.

Why Intergenerational Connections Are So Important

Intergenerational interaction between seniors and youth is important for several reasons, benefiting both groups and society. These interactions enrich both the seniors and the younger generations in so many ways.

• Cultural and Knowledge Exchange: Seniors have valuable life experiences and wisdom that can be shared with younger generations. In turn, younger people offer fresh perspectives, ideas, and insights into modern culture and technology.
• Mental and Emotional Well-being: For seniors, engaging with younger people can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, which are common in older age. These interactions often provide a sense of purpose and belonging, boosting emotional health.
• Bridging the Generation Gap: Intergenerational interactions foster mutual understanding and break down stereotypes. This helps younger people develop empathy and appreciation for older generations, while seniors can learn to appreciate the values and attitudes of youth.
• Transfer of Skills: Younger generations can help seniors become more adept with technology, while seniors can pass down practical knowledge, life lessons, and even traditional skills that might otherwise be lost.
• Strengthening Communities: Interaction between different age groups fosters social cohesion. Communities benefit from the diversity of experiences, and intergenerational relationships help create a more inclusive society where each person feels valued.
• Lifelong Learning: Both groups benefit from the opportunity to learn from each other. Seniors often remain mentally sharper when they engage in stimulating conversations and activities with younger people, and young individuals gain insight into different stages of life.

Jackson Creek Senior Living Activities Support Intergenerational Connections

While we host family friendly activities throughout the year, and we have many community amenities and common areas that support time for intergenerational connections, during National Assisted Living Week this year (celebrated Sept. 8-14), several of our activities and events for the week centered on this mission.

• On Sept. 8, we kicked off the week with a Grandparents’ Day celebration, including a visit from a youth group from Renovation Church of Monument. Many thanks to these engaged and caring youth for stopping by.
• On Sept. 9, team members modeled various PJ fashions from over the decades to gin up laughs with the residents.
• On Sept. 10, team members dressed up as favorite TV characters, bringing smiles and conversation throughout the community.
• On the following day, team members again dressed up as “nerds,” and engaged in an activity with residents to share stories and create a mural as part of “Wisdom Wednesday.”
• On Sept. 12, team members and residents dressed up in a “Back to the Future” theme as part of “Time Capsule Thursday.” Residents were encouraged to create time capsules for family members.
• The next day, the community hosted a music party for residents, with a 1950s theme, milkshakes, fries, and “dirty” Shirley Temple drinks.
• And to cap the week off on Sept. 13, team members and residents were encouraged to dress as a Disney character. Families were invited for lunch to share in the fun with their loved ones.

If you would like to learn more about Jackson Creek Senior Living, which offers assisted living, memory support, and independent living on a modern and family friendly campus in Monument, please give us a call at (719) 259-1331 or visit us online. We’d be happy to show you around so you can see firsthand the vibrant, caring community we foster.

National Assisted Living Week (NALW) is an annual observance in the United States that celebrates the role of assisted living communities in caring for seniors and individuals with disabilities. It usually takes place in September, starting on Grandparents Day (the first Sunday after Labor Day) and runs through the following Saturday. This year, it will be held Sept. 8-14, and Jackson Creek Senior Living will host several events and a Spirit Week to celebrate.

Seniors seek assisted living for various reasons, primarily related to their health, safety, and overall quality of life. Here are eight factors to consider when assessing whether assisted living is the right choice for you or a loved one.

1. Health and Medical Needs

Many seniors have chronic health issues requiring regular monitoring and care. Assisted living communities help manage medications, ensuring they are taken correctly and on time. Residents also have immediate access to healthcare professionals and different levels of care, crucial for those with medical needs.

2. Daily Living Assistance

Assisted living provides support for seniors who need help with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and meal prep. Mobility assistance, regular housekeeping, laundry, and maintenance services are also available.

3. Safety and Security

Assisted living is designed to minimize the risk of falls and accidents, with regular supervision ensuring help is readily available if, and when, it’s needed. Residents may have emergency call devices, such as pendants or call buttons in their apartments, and receive daily check-ins from team members.

4. Social Interaction and Activities

This is often overlooked, but assisted living communities offer social activities and events that help prevent isolation and loneliness. Recreational activities like painting, board games, daily exercise, and educational forums keep residents engaged and active.

5. Nutrition and Meals

Residents often gain weight when they move into assisted living, thanks to balanced nutrition and regular, chef-prepared meals. Culinary teams can accommodate dietary restrictions as needed, and mealtimes are key socialization opportunities in assisted living.

6. Family Peace of Mind

Assisted living provides families with a sense of relief knowing that their loved one is being well-cared for with ongoing support from professionals who understand their preferences and needs.

7. Quality of Life

Assisted living allows residents to maintain a level of independence while receiving the help they need. Individualized care plans are developed for each resident, emphasizing autonomy.

8. Cost-Effective Option

While assisted living may initially seem more expensive than living at home, it often proves cost-effective when considering home maintenance, taxes, home care, food, and other expenses. A predictable monthly rent that includes amenities and services offers significant value.

Assisted living provides a supportive environment that enhances seniors’ well-being, allowing them to enjoy a higher quality of life while receiving the care they need. If you would like to learn more about our Assisted Living options at Jackson Creek Senior Living, please give us a call at 719-259-1331. Our leasing professionals can provide a free consultation, schedule a tour and answer any questions you may have.

Memory support communities are designed to provide a structured and supportive environment for individuals living with memory impairments, such as Alzheimer’s disease and related dementia. According to many memory support experts, routines matter. While specific routines can vary, here is a general overview of what a typical day in the life of a memory support community might look like:

Morning

• Wake-Up and Personal Care: Residents are gently awakened by team members they are familiar with and assisted with personal care routines and activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and grooming.
• Breakfast: A nutritious breakfast is served in a communal dining area. Team members are on hand to assist residents who need help with eating.
• Morning Activities: Activities are designed to stimulate cognitive function and physical health. These may include light exercise classes, memory games, arts and crafts, or music therapy.

Midday

• Lunch: Residents enjoy a well-balanced lunch together. Meals are often planned with input from nutritionists to ensure dietary needs are met.
• Rest Period: After lunch, residents may have a rest period or quiet time to relax, nap, or engage in light activities like reading or watching TV.

Afternoon

• Afternoon Activities: These can include social events, group outings, gardening, pet therapy, or more personalized activities tailored to residents’ interests and abilities.
• Snack Time: A mid-afternoon snack is provided, allowing residents to socialize and recharge.

Evening

• Dinner: Dinner is served, and residents are encouraged to participate in setting the table and other mealtime preparations if they are able.
• Evening Activities: Activities may be more relaxed in the evening and could include movie nights, puzzle solving, or reminiscing sessions where residents share memories and stories.
• Wind Down: Team members assist residents with their bedtime routines, including medication administration, and help them get ready for bed.

Night

• Overnight Care: Team members are on duty 24/7 throughout the night to monitor residents and provide care as needed. This ensures that residents are safe and have assistance available if they wake up or need help during the night.

General Environment

• Safety and Security: Memory support communities are designed with safety features such as secured entrances and exits, wander management systems, and easy-to-navigate layouts to prevent disorientation.
• Personalized Care: Team members are trained to provide personalized dementia care, recognizing each resident’s unique needs and preferences.
• Family Involvement: Families are encouraged to visit and participate in community events, fostering a sense of connection and continuity for residents.

The Importance of Routine and Structure to Daily Life in Memory Support Care

This routine ensures that residents have a balanced day with activities that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being while providing a safe and supportive environment. Structure is crucial in the daily routine of someone living with Alzheimer’s and related dementia for several reasons:

Reduces Anxiety and Stress

• Predictability: Knowing what to expect can help reduce feelings of confusion and anxiety. A predictable routine can provide a sense of security and stability.
• Minimizes Uncertainty: Sudden changes or unexpected events can be particularly distressing for someone living with Alzheimer’s. A structured routine minimizes these occurrences.

Enhances Cognitive Function

• Consistent Activities: Regular engagement in structured activities can help maintain cognitive function. Activities like memory games, puzzles, and social interactions can stimulate the brain.
• Routine Tasks: Repetition of routine tasks can help reinforce memory and cognitive skills. Performing daily activities in the same order helps maintain a level of independence.

Supports Physical Health

• Regular Meals: Structured mealtimes ensure that residents receive proper nutrition. This consistency helps manage blood sugar levels and prevents malnutrition.
• Exercise: Scheduled physical activities help maintain mobility, strength, and overall physical health. Regular exercise can also improve mood and reduce behavioral symptoms.

Improves Sleep Patterns

• Consistent Sleep Schedule: A regular daily routine helps regulate the body’s internal clock, leading to better sleep patterns. This can reduce nighttime wandering and improve overall sleep quality.
• Bedtime Rituals: Having a consistent bedtime routine can signal to the body that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep.

Facilitates Better Care

• Caregiver Efficiency: A structured routine helps caregivers plan and deliver care more effectively. They can anticipate needs and be better prepared to manage any issues that arise.
• Personalized Attention: Knowing the routine allows caregivers to provide more personalized care, adapting activities and interventions to the resident’s preferences and abilities.

Encourages Social Interaction

• Scheduled Social Activities: Regularly scheduled group activities promote social interaction, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
• Community Engagement: A structured day often includes communal meals and group activities, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Maintains Independence

• Routine Tasks: Repetition of familiar tasks helps residents maintain a level of independence. Structured routines allow them to participate in daily activities with less assistance.
• Empowerment: Having a routine empowers residents by giving them a sense of control over their day-to-day lives.

Behavior Management

• Predictable Environment: A structured environment can help manage and reduce challenging behaviors associated with Alzheimer’s, such as agitation, aggression, and wandering.
• Activity Engagement: Engaging residents in regular activities can help avoid negative behaviors and promote positive engagement.

In summary, a structured routine helps create a supportive environment that enhances the quality of life for individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other memory loss, providing stability, promoting health, and fostering a sense of well-being.

Would you like to learn more about the memory support best practices of Jackson Creek Senior Living? Our wellness team is here to help. Please give our team at Jackson Creek a call at 719-259-1331 to learn more about our daily routine, including the Creekside Day Retreat, for residents living with Alzheimer’s and related memory loss conditions.

Approximately 17,000 people in Colorado are living with Parkinson’s disease. This estimate reflects the significant prevalence of Parkinson’s within the state, aligning with the broader trend observed across the United States, where about one million people are affected by this condition. As a result, Jackson Creek Senior Living sought to elevate its understanding of Parkinson’s disease and become a hub for families in the Colorado Springs area affected by this disease. Jackson Creek formally calls this effort Partners for Parkinson’s.

This effort led Jackson Creek to enter a unique partnership with the Parkinson Association of the Rockies (PAR), Enhabit Home Health & Hospice, and Bloom Healthcare & Hospice to share resources for individuals, families and caregivers affected by Parkinson’s disease in the Tri-Lakes region. This collaboration was launched April 11 on World Parkinson’s Day. Jackson Creek is one of only four organizations in the pilot program in Colorado to partner with PAR. This program offers free resources, including family consults, educational programs, support groups, and exercise classes specifically for those living with Parkinson’s and their caregivers.

Since April, a lot has happened at Jackson Creek with these trusted experts. The community’s staff has received two training sessions with Jodi Brown, CEO of PAR, and these quarterly training sessions will continue as team members apply these best practices in the care of residents.

Enhabit Home Health & Hospice, which has an office in Colorado Springs, has begun facilitating a quarterly Parkinson’s Support Group at Jackson Creek Senior Living. This support group, free and open to the public with a reservation, has become the most popular support group the community offers in just a few months.

Bloom Healthcare & Hospice, based in Lakewood and Monument, provides direct primary care services tailored to the needs of Jackson Creek residents living with Parkinson’s, enabling them to age in place comfortably. This too has become a popular and valuable resource for residents.

“We are extremely pleased to expand this partnership with these respected organizations to support families in the Tri-Lakes region,” said Lauren Hart, executive director, Jackson Creek Senior Living. “Collaborating with these expert organizations, with Jackson Creek as the hub where services and programs are being delivered, has already exceeded our expectations and the feedback from residents, families and community members has been nothing but positive.”

Call 719-259-1331 to learn more about Jackson Creek Senior Living and the Partners for Parkinson’s program.