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Seniors living with dementia often require specialized care and ongoing supervision that family caregivers may find challenging to provide. As your loved one’s condition progresses, dementia symptoms and behaviors may worsen, and there may be a fork in the road where you must decide to arrange for care at home or consider a move to a senior living community that offers memory support.

This complex decision requires an understanding of what home care organizations and memory support providers offer for dementia care. And the decision often depends on the individual’s condition, needs, budget, and support system.

What is a memory support community?

At some point, caregivers may find that moving a senior to a memory support community will be beneficial as their dementia progresses. Memory support facilities provide long-term care for seniors living with Alzheimer’s or related dementia. This type of residential community typically offers specialized memory support services that meet the unique needs of its residents. The services in these communities are designed to improve the quality of life for seniors with memory loss by reducing confusion and stimulating cognitive function within a secure setting. That secure setting, and the collective support of a team approach to care, is often a very important factor for families.

Memory support communities can be a part of another senior living community that provides multiple levels of care, or they can be a stand-alone facility. For example, here at Jackson Creek Senior Living, we offer memory support as well as assisted living and independent living apartments, respite care and day retreat services.

Memory support care often includes many of the same services as assisted living, such as assistance with activities of daily living, meal preparation, and medication management. They also offer unique services, activities, and amenities tailored to seniors with cognitive impairment. Communities that care for seniors with middle- to end-stage dementia may also be better equipped to handle the challenges associated with wandering, aggression, and other dementia-related behaviors.

Memory support communities meet the care needs of those experiencing cognitive decline and memory loss by offering various services:

• Personal care that assists seniors who have Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia with activities of daily living, such as dressing, bathing, or medication management
• Safety features, which typically include security cameras, emergency call buttons, and locked doors to prevent wandering
• Full-time supervision by team members trained to attend to the needs of seniors living with dementia
• Behavioral interventions to help with symptoms such as aggression
• Activities, programs, and social events designed to stimulate cognitive function for seniors living with dementia
• Intentionally designed spaces that ease anxiety and agitation, and simplified building layouts for easy navigation

Many memory support communities utilize a “person-centered” approach to providing care. This process focuses on building close relationships between residents and team members while promoting individuality. Person-centered memory support communities emphasize respecting and valuing seniors as individuals, regardless of their cognitive abilities.

What is home care for dementia?

Home care provides services to assist seniors in their homes. Home care may be offered by independent caregivers hired as contractors, or by home care agencies that employ professional caregivers. These caregivers offer companionship, assistance with daily activities, and dementia care, usually for an hourly fee. Levels of care provided can vary from a few hours of weekly housekeeping to 24-hour daily supervision, based on each person’s needs and individual care plan.

Home care may be more appropriate for individuals with early to moderate stages of dementia who can still function with support, which can often be family members to supplement home care staff. This option allows the individual to be in a familiar environment, get one-on-one care, and benefit from flexibility in scheduling. Home modifications may be necessary for safety and security.

Assessing the right dementia care option for your family

Budget can be a major factor for families in timing and selecting which option should be taken. While the price of memory support care is typically higher than assisted living, the all-inclusive pricing can be attractive to families who balance this cost against the cost of running a home (food, utilities, insurance, maintenance) and the cost of the home care providers.

Deciding which type of care your loved one living with dementia needs can feel like a daunting task at first. Learning about the differences between memory support communities and home care providers is a good place to start.

If you would like to speak with our memory support team as you explore your options, our experts are a resource here to assist you. Please give them a call at 719-259-1331. Jackson Creek Senior Living offers a continuum of care options for seniors 62+, including dementia care.

Caring for those living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias requires specialized training to understand how those individuals experience the world. As part of Jackson Creek Senior Living’s commitment to resident care and employee development, team members across departments completed an interactive dementia training program to help understand the challenges those living with cognitive impairment face daily.

The Virtual Dementia Tour^® (VDT) program was created by P.K. Beville, founder of Second Wind Dreams, a nonprofit organization based in Roswell, Georgia. It is used in memory support communities and organizations worldwide to give caregivers, families, and health providers a better understanding of the physical and mental challenges faced by those living with memory loss. A VDT replicates common issues seniors encounter daily, including discomfort when walking or standing, loss of hand-eye coordination/dexterity, and glaucoma. Not only do older adults living with dementia deal with these age-related issues, but they may also be sensitive to loud noises and experience short and long-term memory loss.

Jackson Creek team members participating in the dementia sensitivity training program started by putting on headphones that muffle hearing and intermittently play loud distracting noises like sirens or a telephone ringing. They also wore special glasses to distort their vision, large bulky gloves to inhibit their hands and had a prickly device inserted in their shoes.

With their hearing, vision, hands, and feet altered, team members tried to navigate an apartment space typical of those memory support residents live in and were asked to complete simple tasks like folding a towel or filling a glass with water.

“The noise from the headphones was so disorienting and with the discomfort in my shoes, and the difficulty handling things, I forgot every single task I was given. I was pretty much frozen at first,” said Jackson Creek Move-in Coordinator/Concierge Sarah Smith, who participated in the dementia sensitivity training.

After her VDT ended, Smith met with colleagues to discuss the experience. One team member recounted being unable to put a coat on a hanger, while others said they forgot some tasks and struggled to finish them. The tour facilitators graded each participant’s abilities to complete tasks, and everyone shared something new they learned that would help them better care for residents living with Alzheimer’s or other dementia.

“The experience was very eye-opening! We all had a better understanding of the challenges those living with memory loss and age-related health issues face every day. It made us all more aware of the noise of everyday life, and we all agreed we need to give memory support residents more time to do everything. When you take over and do things for them, they feel like they are losing a part of themselves, and our job is to prevent that and make life easier for them,” said Smith.

“I want to thank you for today’s [Virtual Dementia] Tour. Truly, it was an eye-opener and I hope more people take advantage of the tour to gain insight as to how this condition affects everyone. … Ours was an experience we will not forget.” – Peggy & Bill D.

Jackson Creek Senior Living offers memory support, assisted living and independent living, and respite care services. Call 719-259-1331 or visit jacksoncreekseniorliving.com if you have questions about our memory support community or would like to speak with one of our dementia care experts.

People living with Alzheimer’s or other dementia may remember their far-off past but might not be able to remember an event that happened yesterday. That’s why building a memory box can be a great way to connect with your loved one as they recall different people and events from their past.

By providing concrete, tangible items that start conversations and spark memories, memory boxes can help family members, friends and care providers to engage individuals living with memory loss in a healthy, meaningful way. Here are a few suggestions to keep in mind before creating your own memory box:

Choose the right container

Find a suitable container to serve as your memory box. It should be sturdy and easy to store and lift. Your container can be as simple as a shoebox or Tupperware container, or more ornate like a basket or a chest. You can also decorate the box with drawings, small glued-on items, or photos to make it even more unique.

Find meaningful objects

Find objects to put in your memory box that have a specific memory attached to them. These can be objects that reflect your loved one’s interests and hobbies, or just ones with personal significance. Some ideas would be family photos, a favorite book, sports memorabilia, CDs or tapes, artwork from grandchildren, vacation souvenirs, a favorite recipe, old newspaper clippings, or a favorite piece of jewelry or clothing.

Pick stimulating and safe items

Senses like touch and smell can help spur memory just as much, or even more so, than sight, so consider choosing items with different textures and fragrances. If you include a CD, be sure to play it with your loved one. And be sure to choose memory-related items that are not sharp, dangerous, or heavy to handle.

Consider including notes and clues

The significance of certain items might not come to your loved one right away. Try labeling items with cues and include a notecard or list in the box detailing all the items with a short description or context clues to suggest why they are meaningful.

Memory boxes are a simple tool for spurring connection and engagement, but the most important part of making a memory box is what happens after you hand it over to a loved one. Both you and your loved one will cherish the process of going through the box, talking about each item, recalling memories, and enjoying the conversations that arise.

At Jackson Creek Senior Living we’re committed to supporting seniors in our community to live well and age well. Call us at 719-259-1331 to learn more about our independent and assisted living and memory support services for those 62+.

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.