Category: News

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.

Taking simple precautions to avoid overheating or becoming dehydrated is especially important for older adults. As we age, our sense of thirst diminishes and our bodies naturally hold less water. Follow these sun safety and hydration tips to help stay cool this summer.

Tip #1

The best times of the day for outdoor activities in the summer are early morning and evening. Avoid being outdoors during the hottest part of the day, usually noon until the sun sets. If you are outdoors when temperatures soar, be sure to wear sunscreen on exposed skin, a wide-brimmed hat to shade your eyes and neck and try to stay in the shade as much as possible.

Tip #2

Taking frequent breaks to replenish fluids is important for avoiding dehydration and overheating in the hottest months of the year. Don’t rely on your thirst to alert you to take a drink, try to get in the habit of doing so a few times every hour, especially when you‘re active outdoors.

Tip #3

Staying cool and hydrated does not mean drinking gallons of water. All beverages, except alcohol, count towards your daily fluid intake. Add sparkling water to your apple juice for a refreshing zing and dress up water with a slice of lemon, cucumber, or frozen berries to be more appealing and encourage regular sipping.

Tip #4

Drink up in style by putting your iced latte or sports drink in a stylish colorful water bottle. Insulated water bottles and tumblers keep beverages cool and ice cubes intact longer so you can enjoy every drop.

Tip #5

You can eat to stay cool and hydrated too. Many fruits and vegetables have a heavy water content, like celery, lettuce, cucumbers, oranges and tomatoes. Snacking on watermelon, grapes and kiwis is a healthy and delicious way to maintain optimum hydration levels.

Keeping Cool at Jackson Creek

Healthy, hydrating fruits and vegetables are always on the menu at Jackson Creek Senior Living, and residents have a variety of refreshing beverages like iced tea, juice and milk to choose from. Our numerous community indoor spaces are comfortably cooled to relax during peak hours, there are shaded areas to safely enjoy outdoor activities and every apartment has an individually controlled cooling system.

Ready to start planning your cool new retirement lifestyle? Call us at 719-259-1331 to learn more about our independent and assisted living and memory support services for those 62+.

Are you facing the challenges of caring for a loved one living with memory loss? Whether you’re a family member, friend, spouse, or professional caregiver, navigating the complexities of dementia care can feel overwhelming at times. The good news is, you’re not alone on this journey. That’s why the memory support care team at Jackson Creek Senior Living has curated a collection of recommended books on Alzheimer’s and dementia care, featuring experts and acclaimed authors, that offer valuable insights, practical advice, and emotional support for caregivers like you.

Visit our Resources Portal to learn more and download your free copy of our reading list today.

DOWNLOAD NOW →

As loved ones age, it’s natural to consider alternative living arrangements to enhance their quality of life. Many seniors and families start this process by researching assisted living communities. But what exactly is assisted living, when is it time to consider this option, and what are the benefits?

Assisted living is a type of residential care that provides support for seniors who need help with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, grooming, medication management, or preparing meals. Seniors who receive this level of care can communicate their needs but don’t require the intensive and round-the-clock medical care often provided in nursing homes.

This living option emphasizes autonomy and fosters independence while providing extra peace of mind for residents and families who know that additional assistance and personalized care are available if, and when, it’s needed.

Seniors and families should consider assisted living when several factors become apparent: an individual needs help with activities of daily living; the risk of falls increases; health challenges; cognitive decline; and importantly, social isolation.

If your friend or family member encounters difficulties with activities such as personal hygiene or meal preparation, it could indicate that an assisted living community might provide the assistance they require. Many assisted living communities offer restaurant-style dining and chef-prepared meals to ensure residents receive proper nutrition without the hassles of shopping and cooking.

Safety is always a concern for seniors who are prone to falls and other injuries. In assisted living communities, residents may have an emergency call device like a pendant as well as call buttons in their apartments and daily check-ins from team members to ensure they are generally in good health.

If your loved one’s health or cognitive function has declined, they may require more assistance than you can provide at home. Many assisted living communities offer different levels of care and memory support services for those living with Alzheimer’s and related dementia.

Depression and social isolation are common for seniors who live alone. Study after study highlights that being around others and socializing at some level is imperative to a senior’s health and well-being. Assisted living communities offer an array of activities and opportunities for residents to socialize and engage like painting, playing board games, going to live musical performances, daily exercise, and educational forums.

If your loved one is beginning to exhibit signs that they require additional care, assisted living could provide the necessary support within a stimulating and autonomous setting. By researching assisted living communities now, you’ll ensure your loved one has options to age well, even if their needs change. It’s much less disruptive to get additional support in the environment you live in than to move later in life.

Your Senior Care Partner

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 contact us online if you have questions about assisted living or would like to schedule a personalized tour.

Our Memory Support Neighborhood is designed specifically for residents living with Alzheimer’s, dementia or other memory loss conditions. We provide a comfortable, secure, home-like environment featuring outdoor courtyards that offer fresh air, walking space and sunshine and tie in with a community room and dedicated dining area. As a community familiar with dementia, Alzheimer’s and other memory support conditions, we talk to families regularly about their options. Our goal is always to be a resource for families as they explore their options in supporting a loved one.

Based on the comments we receive we’ve organized 10 questions you should ask when looking for memory support for your loved one.

1. How large is the community?

Memory support communities range from hundreds of apartments and residents to smaller boutique communities with 100 or less people and every size in between. Be sure to find out:

• How many resident apartments are there?
• What size are the apartments?
• Are there private and/or companion residences?
• What are the indoor spaces like? Is there an activities room, fitness and wellness center and plenty of community gathering places?
• What type of outdoor spaces are there? Are they secure?

2. Who is the leadership team?

The leadership team ensures the community is safe and clean, offers plenty of opportunities for socialization and that residents are well-looked after. Meet with the leadership team and members in the memory support segment of the community you are considering to get a sense of their philosophy of care and how they interact with residents and their family members.

3. What is the staff like?

Memory support communities have specially trained personnel and are often staffed with a Resident Care Director who oversees the care team and residents’ health needs. It is important to know what level of care can be provided to your loved one in the community and how outside care is managed.

4. How do team members interact with residents?

Observe how a community’s team members interact with residents. If possible, speak to family members of a current resident to find out how they interact with the caregivers. You should feel very comfortable with the care team and have a good relationship with them.

5. What kind of training do the caregivers have?

People living with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia require specially trained caregivers who understand the signs and symptoms of both. They should have experience caring for those with dementia and be capable of managing any situation, no matter how unpredictable. People living with dementia often experience extreme anxiety and confusion, may be prone to angry outbursts or try to leave the community alone, and require caregivers who are prepared to calmly redirect that energy and address these issues.

6. What is the dining program like?

Memory support communities typically offer three meals a day with snacks available in between. Ask to see a sample menu. Visit the dining room, inspect the food that is being served and inquire if special diets can be accommodated. Also ask where the food is sourced from and what percentage of it is served from fresh, not frozen.

7. What does a day look like and what activities are offered?

Many studies show people living with dementia or Alzheimer’s greatly benefit from specialized life enrichment activities like creating memory books, taking art or music classes, or attending fitness classes. Ask what kinds of activities are scheduled and who supervises them. And importantly, see how the team will accommodate the interests of your family member into the daily routine.

8. What is included in the monthly cost?

Always find out what is included in the standard monthly fee. All meals, comprehensive resident care, assistance with activities of daily living, medication management, maintenance, housekeeping, laundry services and community activities should be included.

9. What additional costs are there?

Be sure to ask what is not included with the base monthly apartment rates and what are typical extra expenses like community living fees and incontinence programs. This is important for creating a realistic budget for your loved one’s care.

10. Does the community offer care options?

As we age, our needs change. Some communities offer just independent living, others just assisted living, and others just memory support. It’s nice to know when you research a community that it has options for you or your loved ones if health needs change. It’s much less disruptive to get additional support and care in the environment you live in than to move later in life.

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 schedule a personalized tour online and come meet our team.