Author: ecoyne

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Financials

How much does it cost to live in a senior living community?

Older couple doing paper work together

The number of Americans aged 65 and older is expected to nearly double by 2060 – a shift that will increase demand for senior housing. And with increased demand, more people will find themselves asking: “Is senior living right for me?” and “How much does senior living cost?”

Unfortunately, there isn’t a simple, one-size-fits-all answer. The cost of senior living varies according to location, the level of care required, amenities and other factors.

  • According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), independent living costs can range from $1,600–$16,000/month.
  • The Genworth cost of care survey found that the median cost of assisted living is $5,300/month, but the number varies widely based on location.
  • The study also found that a private room in a skilled nursing facility costs $9,700/month on average.
  • Dementia Care Central reports that memory care costs range from $6,100 to $8,200 based on location and amenities.

The NCOA also found that some all-inclusive Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) may include initial costs from $50,000 to $450,000, in addition to monthly fees. That range is so vast, it’s hard to make an educated guess about costs – and to understand what those fees will get you.
Let’s dive into the costs associated with each type of community, so you can get a clearer idea of which option is right for you and your family.

The Cost of Independent Living Communities

Independent living communities are best suited for older adults who are able to live on their own without personal care provided by the community. That said, many residents of independent living communities do have care needs and often choose to contract with outside home care providers.

Older adults may make this decision for any number of reasons – including the benefit of selecting services on a more a la carte basis than an assisted living community might allow. Many independent living communities also offer the option of moving to assisted living housing whenever residents are ready.

The exact figure for how much independent living communities cost varies according to where you live and the services and amenities offered. Upscale dining options, resort-quality features like swimming pools and wellness clinics, chauffeured car services and on-site medical concierge suites will all add to the cost of a lease. A community without any of these perks might not be as expensive.

The median monthly cost of senior independent living in 2024 is $3,100 according to A Place for Mom, but many senior living communities do not display their rates and require potential residents to speak to sales staff. At Atria, we’re upfront about our prices, and we share tax and veterans benefits that older adults might be able to access. We also provide a cost calculator to compare household expenses and determine if senior living is a wise investment.

Cost Calculator: Is Senior Living a Wise Investment?

 

The Cost of Assisted Living Communities

Seniors often choose assisted living so they can maintain their independence in a private apartment while benefitting from personal assistance and round-the-clock support. Assisted living costs can vary, but as noted above, in 2024 the average rent of a one-bedroom assisted living apartment with a single occupant was $5,300 per month.

Assisted living communities also include fees for care services based on an assessment of residents’ needs. The most frequently requested services include medication assistance and reminders, as well as personal care such as bathing, getting dressed and scheduling appointments with physicians. Meals, laundry and housekeeping are generally all included, and residents can enjoy the ongoing programs and events that the community hosts. Assisted living communities may also offer memory care neighborhoods for residents with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Quiz: Is Senior Living Right for Me?

 

The Cost of Continuing Care Retirement Communities

Continuing care retirement communities (or CCRCs) are designed so that residents can access higher levels of care without moving to an entirely different community. They generally offer three levels of care: independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing. As with assisted living, some CCRC facilities offer memory care for residents with Alzheimer’s or dementia – a service that incurs an additional cost.

Since CCRCs do offer so many thresholds of care – including skilled nursing – they tend to be more expensive than communities that offer only assisted or independent living services. CCRCs usually charge an initial entrance fee, which starts around $100,000 for an individual non-purchase (or rental) arrangement, but they can much higher, depending on the size of the living unit and the community’s location. They also charge monthly service fees that start around $2,000.

The types of services that assisted living communities and CCRCs offer often overlap, so it’s worth noting a few differences between them:

  • CCRCs generally ask residents to sign a sizable long-term contract and pay a hefty buy-in fee. Assisted living communities typically rent on a month-to-month basis and charge a minimal new resident service fee. (Similarly, CCRCs generally ask for a lifetime commitment, whereas assisted living communities rent monthly.)
  • CCRCs may rely on continued care service contracts with other providers at off-campus locations. Assisted living communities generally have an in-house staff that maintains the consistency of care.
  • Most activities at CCRCs are resident-organized. Assisted living communities tend to hire professionals who specialize in developing monthly calendars of events. These events might include fitness classes or guest lectures.

Guide: CCRCs vs. Senior Living

 

The Costs of Living at Home

At this point, you may be wondering, “Isn’t it cheaper just to live at home?” Well, that too depends on your circumstances.

Do you own your house or are you paying off a mortgage? Is your house or apartment equipped with aging-in-place modifications, or is that an investment that you’ll have to make? Are you able to perform maintenance and upkeep on your home, or do you pay someone to mow your lawn, clean the gutters, do housekeeping or prepare meals?

Answering those questions can help determine how much you’re really paying to stay at home rather than move into a community. Bear in mind that the cost of aging in place modifications (such as installing ramps, grab bars, better lighting and safer flooring) can range from $3,000 to $50,000.

The cost of living in an assisted living community is around $63,000 per year – a figure that includes everything from rent to care and meals. Compare that to some of the fees that can accrue when we choose to stay at home:

  • The average cost of hiring a private duty aide who performs tasks such as cleaning or cooking is around $48,048 per year.
  • Employing a full-time home health aide costs about $50,336 per year.
  • Adult day health care typically runs around $18,720 per year.

As we age, the costs associated with ensuring that we’re receiving the care, social support and daily maintenance we need can all add up. Older adults often find that paying one lump sum for peace of mind is worth the cost. With a provider like Atria, that sum pays for many features that comprise an active, engaged life:

  • Social Life: Social, cultural and educational events to look forward to every day.
  • Transportation: Car or bus services that take residents to outings, errands and appointments.
  • Dining: Chef-prepared meal options that meet residents’ dietary needs.
  • Housekeeping: An attentive staff that handles all maintenance requests and keeps apartments tidy.
  • Emergency Assistance: Access to on-site help 24/7 in the event of an emergency.
  • Exercise/Fitness: Daily opportunities to improve strength, flexibility and balance with other residents.
  • Independence: Assistance from a discreet staff to help residents live on their own terms.

Determining Senior Living Costs

Making sense of the costs associated with moving to a senior living community vs. staying at home can be overwhelming, but we’re here to help. If you or someone you know wants to learn more about Atria, visit AtriaSeniorLiving.com/FindACommunity to discover the location nearest you.

Categories
Senior Aging & Health

4 Ways to Boost an Older Parent’s Mood

Senior man and granddaughter laughing

Older adults face numerous challenges that can negatively impact their mood as they age, including isolation, illness, decreased independence and physical and cognitive decline. Even the most cheerful and even-keeled person can fall into extended periods of depression, and symptoms of depression in older people often manifest as crankiness, anger or irrationality.

If your parent is displaying negative behaviors, it can be frustrating and emotionally draining, but there are some steps you can take to help improve their mood so you can have more quality time together.

1. Listen with empathy

To help boost your parent’s mood, it’s important to understand what they’re going through. Aging often brings life changes that are difficult for anyone to adjust to, like memory issues, decreased independence, loss of mobility and a shrinking circle of friends and family. In addition, the brain is going through neurological changes that can make an older adult more susceptible to depression.

“As we enter our senior years, the hormones and chemicals that make us happy aren’t being produced as much as they used to be,” says Catherine Schneider, Director of Memory Care Operations and Programming at Atria Senior Living. “So when we talk about our parent’s mood, or how our parent is being cranky and negative all the time, it’s important to remember that their brains are going through real changes.”

Taking the time to listen to your parent when they’re frustrated or upset can go a long way toward making them feel heard and validated. The more you understand their feelings, the better you’ll be able to meet – and even anticipate – their needs.

2. Incorporate physical activity into their routine

Finding ways to help your parent stay active isn’t just good for their physical health – it can play a crucial part in staving off feelings of depression and increasing happiness. Research suggests a close link between our health and our happiness, a connection that grows more significant as we age.

Regular exercise can counteract the neurological changes the brain is going through. Physical activity can boost serotonin levels, helping mitigate depression and other mood disorders.

These effects can be even more beneficial if you combine physical activity with being outdoors or in the company of friends or family. Gardening, light exercise and taking walks – even short ones – can go a long way toward reducing depression in older adults and improving their mood.

3. Help them maintain independence

The loss of independence and autonomy has a big impact on how older adults feel about their lives. They’re at a stage where common daily activities may be more difficult to do without assistance. This can lead to understandable frustration, anxiety and depression in seniors.

One way to help a parent retain their sense of independence is to shift the focus from the tasks and activities they can’t do on their own to the ones that they can. This may mean simply giving them more time and space to do things without assistance – even when your impulse may be to lend a hand.

“If they can still do things like prepare meals or get in and out of a car by themselves, don’t interfere or hover over them,” Schneider says. “It may be tempting to help them and get things done faster, but the longer they’re able to do these tasks on their own, the more independent they’ll feel.”

4. Keep them socially engaged

Older adults often suffer from loneliness and isolation, which leads to depression and other mood disorders. In fact, studies suggest the overall health effects of loneliness for seniors is roughly equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

Spending more time with your parent can help ease this sense of isolation. Visiting more often, accompanying them on walks and errands, and including them in more family gatherings all have beneficial effects.

You can also help your parent find other means of social engagement. Community centers and places of worship often host social events that are catered to the interests of older adults, such as book clubs and game nights. Your parent can also connect with people all over the world – in the comfort of their home – through social media and other online resources.

Another effective way to keep your parent socially engaged is through mentor and volunteer programs. These have the added benefit of providing a sense of purpose, which older adults sometimes struggle to find, and research suggests that friendships with younger people can boost the mood and energy level of older adults.

“People who are involved in civic engagement and giving back to their communities are healthier,” Schneider says. “These activities can distract you from whatever feelings of negativity you’re dealing with by putting your focus on helping others.”

Focus on the positive

By concentrating on activities and connections that counteract negative moods and promote positive ones, you can continue to maintain a healthy and rewarding relationship with your parent.

“Instead of fixating so much on the challenges of aging, focus on all the good things that come with it,” Schneider says. “Getting older means you’ve acquired all these experiences and insights, and there’s real value in being able to enjoy and share them with others.”

By listening to your parent’s needs and concerns – and finding ways to help them stay independent, active and socially engaged – you can increase their overall happiness and make the time you spend with them more fulfilling for you both.

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Senior Aging & Health

6 Tips for Helping Seniors Live Independently

Senior woman putting pearl necklace on while getting ready

One of the challenges of getting older is finding ways to maintain one’s independence, even as physical and cognitive abilities start to decline. For those of us with aging parents, we often have to balance giving them the support they require with helping them be as independent as possible – for as long as possible. This can not only enhance our parent’s mood and self-esteem, but it can also extend their physical and cognitive health by helping them maintain the ability to do daily tasks.

Here are six tips for helping your parent feel more independent.

1. Utilize their strengths

Rather than focus on your parent’s limitations, consider all the activities they’re still able to do, both physically and cognitively.

“Too often, we define getting older by all the negatives – the things we aren’t able to do anymore or the faculties that are in decline,” says Catherine Schneider, Director of Memory Care Operations and Programming at Atria Senior Living. “But if instead we start by recognizing all the things our parent can still do, we can view their situation in a more positive light.”

Schneider suggests highlighting the attributes that can improve as we age. For example: though we often think of post-retirement aging as a decline in cognitive ability, this is an oversimplification.

“Cognitive ability waxes and wanes over the course of our lives,” she says, “and certain abilities can actually increase in our senior years, such as crystallized intelligence, emotional intelligence and vocabulary. Finding ways to engage your parent’s cognitive strengths can help keep these abilities sharp.”

2. Help your parent find purpose

Older adults often feel a lack of purpose – they’ve retired from their careers, their kids are grown and they have more time to themselves without a clear sense of how they should spend it. This can lead to feelings of uselessness and depression, but there are many ways for seniors to renew their sense of purpose.

Mentoring provides an excellent opportunity for older adults to share their knowledge and experience in a way that can be socially and psychologically rewarding – friendships with younger people can reduce loneliness and boost mood and energy levels.

Similarly, volunteer work provides seniors with a chance to give back to their communities. They can also devote more time to hobbies and passion projects, or take classes to learn new skills like painting or playing an instrument. Having a mix of familiar and novel activities can stimulate an older adult’s brain and help them feel engaged and fulfilled.

3. Optimize their living environment

Your parent will feel more independent and autonomous if they can navigate their living space with minimal difficulty. Anything you can do to reduce the risk of falls, remove clutter and improve accessibility to everyday items will go a long way toward making them feel more comfortable.

“If the built environment around them is not safe or not conducive to their mental and physical state, they’re not going to feel confident moving around in it,” Schneider says. “It’s important to look for ways to improve their living space by doing things like putting handrails in the bathroom or getting rid of rugs that are easy to trip over.”

It can also help to incorporate technology into their living space to make things more convenient. For example, smart speakers make it easier to adjust the thermostat, hear a podcast or listen to music through voice commands.

4. Don’t offer to help unless they really need it

Continuing to do a variety of everyday tasks – even if they are challenging – is one way your parent can feel more independent.

“If they can still do things like prepare meals or get in and out of a car by themselves, don’t interfere or hover over them,” Schneider says. “It may be tempting to help them and get things done faster, but the longer they’re able to do these tasks on their own, the more independent they’ll feel.”

We tend to lose the skills we don’t use, so in addition to the confidence boost your parent will get from doing things themselves, they’ll also be able handle everyday tasks longer.

5. Offer choices

Older adults can lose their autonomy faster when their ability to make choices is restricted, so it’s important to include them in the decision-making process whenever possible. Rather than dictate their decisions or daily routines, make it a habit to offer your parent some options and let them choose what they want.

For example, instead of telling your parent you’ll be serving them eggs for breakfast, provide them with several options to choose from. This gives them a chance to exercise some control over the process. However, too many choices can be overwhelming, so rather than asking them, “What do you want for breakfast?” you could ask, “Would you like eggs, oatmeal or cereal for breakfast?”

6. Support your parent’s independence in assisted living – but don’t smother it

Moving to an assisted senior living community doesn’t mean your parent has to surrender their independence. In fact, the transition may provide them with opportunities to explore their independence in new ways.

“Assisted living communities offer classes, programs and social events that can help seniors be more engaged and autonomous than they might be on their own,” Schneider says. “What’s important is that older adults find the most beneficial environment for their personal situation.”

Sometimes the best way to help a parent feel independent is by giving them time and space to settle into their new home without “helicoptering” over them. Experts estimate that adjusting to assisted living can take anywhere from a couple weeks to six months, depending on the individual. Be mindful of balancing emotional support for your parent with allowing them to maintain their independence during the transition.

By checking in with your parent and supporting their needs, you can help foster their independence – and in turn promote a healthy outlook and overall well-being.

Categories
Making the Decision

Atria residents on life before and after assisted living

Close-up view of one pair of hands giving a watering can over to another pair of hands, with plants in the foreground and background

For older adults who want to maintain their independence, assisted living offers a safe and supportive environment to do just that.

Meet a few of the residents who have enjoyed a greater sense of well-being at Atria.

Jim and Rhea

Late one night, Rhea discovered her husband, Jim, lying on the kitchen floor, unable to get up. At 91, he was developing symptoms of dementia along with a heart condition that made him weak. For two years, Rhea had been her husband’s only caregiver and, at 88, she said she felt worn down.

“I had to take care of our four-bedroom house, pay the bills, deal with yard work, laundry,” Rhea said. “I was also taking care of my husband, who had just gotten out of the hospital. I had to do everything.”

Rhea knew caring for Jim on her own was no longer an option. After visiting four assisted living communities, the couple moved to Atria.

“Life here is absolutely wonderful,” said Rhea. “The staff has helped me so much by caring for my husband.”

With her husband receiving support and care services daily, Rhea feels more rested. She loves having time to read and sew, and even made Christmas gifts for the entire Atria staff. The couple also enjoys community events and gathering with neighbors.

“We’re extremely happy here,” said Rhea. “The staff is lovely, the food is good, the people are kind and generous. We are very, very content.”

Jean

After her husband passed away, Jean suffered a minor stroke. She continued living alone in her house.

When stopping by to visit, Jean’s children found her lying on the floor, unconscious. That’s when Jean’s daughter insisted her mother move across the country to be closer. They started searching for assisted living communities, and that’s when they found Atria.

“I’m so much better off than if I’d stayed in my house,” Jean said. “The support we get here is grade-A, and they make everything so fun and happy. Being here takes a lot of worry off my daughter’s mind.”

Maurine and Larry

After 55 years in their home on Long Island, Maurine and Larry needed a change. At 92, Larry had suffered a few falls and relied on a walker to get around. Maurine, 89, has balance issues and was finding it difficult to keep hauling laundry and groceries up and down stairs.

With help from their four children, the couple began looking for assisted living options. Shortly after starting the search, they found Atria, and Maurine says she and Larry are thrilled with their decision.

“I don’t have to carry bundles up the stairs anymore,” said Maurine. “They do the housekeeping, the laundry – which is great – and meals are prepared for us.”

Maurine and Larry are also improving their strength, balance and flexibility with occupational therapy sessions twice a week, and they both enjoy participating in the community’s classes and events.

“Life is a lot easier.”

Discover how empowering the right care can be at Atria Senior Living at ExploreAtriaCare.com.

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Caregiving

How to Deal with Caregiver Burnout

Senior mom and daughter smiling together

Caring for a parent or older family member is a balancing act: You want to be able to provide the level of attentive care they need, but you also need to take care of yourself.

The complex emotional nature of caregiving can make it hard to recognize the toll it takes on your personal health and well-being. Spending too much time attending to your family member’s needs without attending to your own can lead to a condition called caregiver burnout – which isn’t healthy for you or your family member.

What is caregiver burnout?

Caregiver burnout, also known as caregiver exhaustion, is what happens when you put so much time and energy into taking care of someone else that you’re too exhausted to take care of your own needs.

What are symptoms of caregiver burnout?

Among the most common symptoms are fatigue, depression and losing interest in hobbies and other things that bring you joy. Other signs of caregiver burnout include anxiety, insomnia, irritability, chronic headaches, and body aches and pains.

Feelings of guilt and resentment toward your family member – and alternately feeling that you’re doing too much and not enough – are also common.

The good news is there are plenty of ways to alleviate caregiver burnout.

Build a support system

Reach out to family and friends to discuss what you’re going through. Sometimes simply sharing your feelings and experiences can make you feel less isolated. And if the people around you understand the challenges you’re facing, they may offer to help with your caregiving duties.

In some cases, you may need more support than family and friends can provide. If you feel like you may be experiencing caregiver depression, consult your doctor or seek out a professional therapist or a counseling support group. Having thoughtful listeners who empathize with your situation can help you manage your emotions.

Try a short-term stay at an assisted living community

An invaluable option for caregivers and their families, a short-term stay at an assisted living community can provide temporary relief from caregiving duties. Your family member will receive the support they need from professional caregivers, allowing you to take a well-deserved break – whether it’s a vacation, some time with family and friends, or simply relaxing at home without caregiving responsibilities.

Short-term stays also offer a number of benefits for seniors. They’ll be able to enjoy all of the community’s amenities and events while also having plenty of opportunities for social engagement.

Prioritize self-care

Make sure you’re proactively taking care of your physical and mental health. This includes getting enough sleep, eating well, staying active, engaging in activities you enjoy, and spending time with family and friends.

It’s also important to take regular breaks throughout the day. Even a brief pause from caregiver duties can make a difference. Stepping outside for fresh air, listening to calming music, and doing some relaxation exercises are all good ways to take a quick break.

Organize your time

Effective time management is essential when attempting to balance caregiver duties with your own well-being. Create a caregiving schedule that lets you dedicate time to your needs as well as those of the person you’re caring for. This is especially important for caregivers with busy careers or young children who also require their time and attention. Planning out your calendar in advance can make it easier to manage all your responsibilities.

If you can arrange for help from friends and family, this can take some of the pressure off you. For example, maybe a spouse or a sibling can lend a hand so you have time to run errands, see friends or go to the gym.

Know your limits and plan for the future

At some point, the level of care your family member needs may become more than you’re able to provide. Changing health conditions, such as the onset of dementia or the decline of physical mobility, can require professional care.

It’s important to recognize when it’s time to consider assisted living or memory care as the right caregiving option for your family. These transitions can be difficult but may ultimately be the best course of action for your family member’s well-being.

Self-care is not selfish

Caring for others involves a complicated set of emotions, so it’s common for caregivers to feel guilty about taking breaks. You might feel like you’re abandoning your family member by focusing on your needs, but you need to be in good mental, emotional and physical health to provide quality care.

In the long run, taking better care of yourself is vital to preventing caregiver burnout.

Recognize when you need a break

Caregiver burnout is a common and normal phenomenon for anyone providing care for a family member. It’s important to be aware of the toll caregiving can take on your own health so that you can take the right steps to recharge and recover.

Check in with yourself on a regular basis to see if it might be time for you to take a break or seek help from others. Be honest with yourself about what kind of relief or assistance you need. The better you take care of yourself, the better you’ll be able to take care of your family member.

Categories
Alzheimer’s & Dementia

Assisted living v. memory care: What’s the difference?

Three seniors potting plants outside

If you’re just starting to explore senior living communities for your parent, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. From cost to care levels and quality of life, there’s a lot to consider. This article will help you understand the difference between memory care and assisted living.

What does assisted living offer?

Assisted living communities help older adults maintain independence by offering private apartments, daily meals, transportation and 24-hour support for essential activities of daily living – or ADLs – including:

  • Bathing
  • Getting dressed
  • Toileting
  • Transferring to and from a bed or chair
  • Eating
  • Incontinence management

Some families delay making the move to senior living until an incident forces their hand. However, waiting for an accident or higher care need may make it harder to transition to a new environment and integrate into the community. In addition to assistance with daily life, one of the greatest benefits of senior living is staying physically and socially active through community events.

Quiz: Assisted Living or Memory Care – Which Is the Better Fit?

What is memory care?

Memory care communities offer a safe and secure environment where specially trained staff offer round-the-clock care and supervision. These tailored communities plan events that cater to the abilities of memory care residents, design spaces that feel soothing and familiar, and offer opportunities to socialize – all of which can help cognition and mood. As an added layer of security, entries and exits at a memory care community remain secured to prevent wandering.

The primary differences between assisted living and memory care are the level of assistance and security offered in the community. However, some communities offer both options in the event a resident’s care needs change.

Can someone with dementia live in assisted living?

Jason Shott is an Atria Regional Vice President with a long history of researching and working in memory care communities. He notes that many residents in assisted living experience mild cognitive impairment (referred to as MCI), including quickly forgetting names, or difficulty planning and organizing.

“When you begin to notice these symptoms, the first step is to go to a physician – preferably a geriatrician – to rule out medical reasons such as mini strokes or a UTI,” Shott says.

If symptoms are truly related to the beginning stages of dementia or Alzheimer’s, the social and cognitive stimulation a community environment offers may help with cognition, and symptoms can be managed until the disease progresses. In later stages, however, it may become necessary to seek an environment that’s dedicated to maintaining the safety and well-being of those living with dementia.

Signs it’s time for memory care

If you’re wondering if memory care is the right choice for your parent, there are a few things to consider. Shott recommends asking yourself if your family member:

  • Is safe in their current living situation
  • Has become withdrawn and moody
  • Struggles to recall the date or time
  • Is experiencing difficulty sleeping, including sundowning (confusion or agitation in the late afternoon and into the night)
  • Has begun wandering
  • Has increased incontinence issues

Average cost of assisted living and memory care

Cost is an important factor in determining the right community. So, how much does assisted living cost? The answer is, it depends.

A Place for Mom reports that in 2023, an assisted living one-bedroom apartment typically costs $4,803 per month. That said, the price can vary greatly by location, amenities and care needs.

Because memory care communities offer a higher staff-to-resident ratio with specialized care, the cost is typically more than assisted living. According to A Place for Mom, the median cost of memory care in 2023 is $5,800 per month, but the range is vast. They note that memory care apartments can be found anywhere from $2,000 to $12,000 per month.

No matter which community or living option you decide is best for your family, it’s important to understand what’s included in the monthly rate.

Finding the right community

AARP notes that even if your family is confident that assisted living is the right fit right now, it’s still important to understand what continuing care options are available. Finding a place where your parent can receive the care they need as their needs change will offer you peace of mind now and remove undue burden in the future.

Shott agrees – and says that if the community you visit won’t work out, they should help you find one that does.

“You want to work with a provider who doesn’t just want you to move in,” he says. “They should understand that if you can’t move in, their job is to help you find the resources you need.”

Categories
Senior Aging & Health

5 Signs It’s Time for Your Parent to Stop Driving

Senior man adjusting mirror in car

The ability to drive is often associated with freedom, so for senior drivers, losing that ability can feel like losing part of their independence. There are ways to get an objective view of your parent’s driving abilities, such as taking a DMV test for seniors or an AARP senior driving course, but you may want to consider other options if you fear for their safety.

So, when should older adults stop driving? Age alone isn’t a predictor. Here are five signs it may be time for your parent to stop driving.

1. Altered driving behavior

Has Dad stopped driving long distances, even though he loves his annual road trip? Is he reluctant to drive at night or in bad weather? Has Mom been in an accident or had a few close calls? Do they miss important street signs and signals or seem “on edge” while driving?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, it could be an indication that your parent no longer feels comfortable behind the wheel.

2. Impaired hearing or vision

Has your parent complained about poor vision, or do they seem hard of hearing lately? Good vision and hearing are critical for safe driving.

Aside from the natural decline in eyesight that comes with aging, a number of eye conditions can also hinder an older adult’s ability to focus and use their peripheral vision to detect pedestrians, traffic lights and other vehicles. Hearing impairment may make it difficult to detect external cues such as sirens or a car horn.

3. Slower reaction time

Safe driving requires quick thinking and the ability to multi-task. Similar to vision and hearing impairment, cognitive decline is a common sign of aging. Even mild memory impairment can hinder your parent’s ability to quickly react to unexpected scenarios, such as having to brake suddenly or swerve to avoid a collision.

4. Medical conditions

Discomfort from arthritis can cause older adults to restrict their movements, which could impair their ability to drive safely. Seniors driving with joint pain may find it difficult to fasten a seat belt, glance over the shoulder to assess traffic and even securely grip the steering wheel.

Memory impairment – especially Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia – can also affect driving abilities. Can Mom remember where the grocery store is? Does she routinely get lost or miss turns?

5. Medication usage

While prescription medications can improve the quality of life, they can also put older adults at risk. Certain medications may have side effects that impair driving. If Mom or Dad had a recent prescription change, check the labels for warnings and ask their doctor about possible drug interactions.

Next steps and tips for safe driving for seniors

To gain a firsthand experience of your parent’s driving ability, offer to ride along with them the next time they run an errand. Take note of the signs mentioned above, and discuss with another caregiver or family member to see if they have noticed anything of concern.

Perhaps preparing for and taking a driving test can help your parent re-establish habits that make them feel safer on the road. Search for AARP senior driving course locations if you and your parent agree to pursue this option.

Lastly, ask your mom or dad if they still feel comfortable driving. If you have specific concerns, tell them what you noticed and suggest a checkup with their physician. Regular doctors’ visits can be scheduled to assess your parent’s vision, hearing and any medical conditions that could impact driving safety.

Infographic: 5 Signs it’s Time for your Parent to Stop Driving

Categories
Senior Aging & Health

Alexa for seniors: Creating a seamless resident experience

Amazon Alexa smart device in an Atria Senior Living apartment

Technology is often associated with youth, but smart devices are increasingly being designed to address the needs of older adults. From wearables with fall detection capabilities to security systems that provide a sense of safety for older adults and caregivers alike, smart devices make it easier for seniors to live with greater independence and more fully connect with their communities.

According to AARP, the convenience and peace of mind that smart devices provide are rapidly winning over older adults – who now use technology like smartphones at almost the same rate as their younger counterparts.

Some of the most popular functions of smart technology for older adults include:

  • Security systems, which monitor for intruders, can be integrated with other smart sensors to turn on lights when someone enters a room (reducing tripping hazards), lock the front door when they get into bed and alert a caregiver when they get up.
  • Smart assistants provide important reminders, answer questions and make calls. Voice activation is especially beneficial for older adults who may struggle to see buttons on their phone or navigate a complicated interface.
  • Monitoring health is especially helpful for older adults living with chronic illness. From tracking steps and sleep to detecting falls and monitoring blood sugar, smart wearables offer a host of benefits. The popularity of these devices for people of all ages also means there are more stylish and less obtrusive options to choose from.

The benefits of Alexa for seniors

Because it utilizes voice-activated technology, Alexa-enabled devices stand out as one of the best smart home devices for seniors as there are no complicated interfaces to navigate, and its use isn’t dependent on fine motor skills, eyesight or mobility.

Alexa offers more than 100,000 skills. While that number may be a little intimidating, there are a handful of skills that are most popular and functional for older adults.

  • “Routines” allows users to set timers for lights, wake-up calls and more.
  • “Ask My Buddy” lets you set up emergency contacts and contact emergency services.
  • “My Calendar” reminds you of upcoming birthdays, appointments and other scheduled events.
  • “Alexa Drop In” is an optional feature that permits people to instantly connect between rooms with their supported Alexa-enabled devices. Just say, “Alexa, drop in,” to get started.

In addition to the skills above, Alexa-enabled devices can also:

  • Play the radio or an audiobook
  • Provide the weather forecast
  • Save a shopping list
  • Read a recipe
  • Give the date and time

Ginna Baik, Senior Care Lead for Alexa Smart Properties, says these new innovations are already transforming the experience of aging because the intuitive nature of voice helps older adults quickly adopt the technology.

Amazon and Atria collaboration

While most older adults are interested in smart home devices for the convenience and safety they provide, many are still intimidated by what can be a difficult or confusing initial setup process. Securing a reliable internet connection, integrating devices and managing multiple subscriptions can all deter older adults from using smart devices.

At a growing number of Atria communities, however, residents don’t have to worry about any of the setup. Through a collaboration with Amazon’s Alexa Smart Properties team, Atria has enabled Alexa devices, including the Echo Show, to support both residents and the staff who serve them. This makes Atria among the first in the senior living industry to deploy large-scale Alexa Smart Properties nationwide.

Chris Nall, Atria’s Chief Technology Officer, describes the Atria experience as a combination of hospitality, health care, well-being and social connection – a tall order that requires thoughtful organization and constant innovation. “Technology,” he says, “is the glue that holds it all together.”

That innovation was the driving force behind the collaboration with Amazon. Apartments equipped with Alexa-enabled devices make it easier for residents to do simple tasks, increasing their independence while allowing staff to focus on providing higher-level services and personal attention.

Alexa helps to create a seamless senior living experience

From calling the concierge to playing a favorite song, Atria residents can more fully engage with their communities through Alexa’s voice enabled technology.

With Alexa-enabled devices, residents can use their voice to:

  • Alert staff of a maintenance need
  • Call the front desk
  • Gather information about upcoming meals and events
  • Get answers to common questions

“I tell my friends, ‘Alexa is not intimidating!’” says an Atria resident who’s grown accustomed to talking to the Alexa-enabled devices. “It’s so simple.”

Alexa helps to keep Atria residents engaged

With easy access to a robust calendar of events, residents are empowered to take full advantage of the many programs their Atria community offers.

Since installing the new devices, Alexa-supported communities have seen a 50-75% increase in participation in Atria’s Engage Life events. Nall says that means “More residents getting out of their apartments – while keeping them connected to their families through voice and video calls. And we’ve made it easy. All they have to do is ask Alexa.”

Visit a community near you to learn more about Atria’s approach to senior living.

Amazon, Alexa and all related marks are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

Categories
Alzheimer’s & Dementia

Dementia and anger: Why does my parent have outbursts?

Adult Daughter Talking To Father At Home
Adult Daughter Talking To Depressed Father At Home

The emotional changes caused by dementia are unpredictable. Your parent may be easygoing one day and uncharacteristically angry the next. It’s difficult to understand why they are acting out or how to provide care in tense moments – especially when it seems the target of that anger is you. So, is anger just a sign of dementia? Did you do something wrong? How can you fix it?

If your parent is in the later stages of dementia, their anger or agitation could be a reaction to pain or confusion coupled with frustration from communication challenges.

“While dementia does cause mood swings, anger isn’t always ‘just the disease.’ The person could have an unmet need that they can’t communicate,” says Catherine Schneider, Director of Resident Well-Being Curriculum at Atria Senior Living.

Angry outbursts, intense combative behavior and emotional moments of confusion can seem almost impossible to manage, but with the right information, you can.

“Disease education is power,” says Schneider.

Watch this video for information about helping a parent with dementia or continue reading below.

How do dementia symptoms affect my parent’s ability to communicate?

Different types of dementia present different communication barriers. Alzheimer’s disease is one form of dementia. It helps to understand your parent’s specific diagnosis and how their dementia symptoms may progress. In addition to amnesia or memory loss, your parent may experience one or more of the following:

  • Apraxia, or loss of motor skills
  • Agnosia, the inability to recognize faces, objects, voices or places
  • Aphasia, trouble speaking or understanding what’s said
  • Anomia, the inability to identify names of objects

What you’re experiencing as a random emotional breakdown may be a reaction to the temperature of the room being too cold – and your parent is frustrated that they can’t remember where they placed their blanket (amnesia); can’t unfold the blanket to put over their legs (apraxia); can’t recognize the blanket (agnosia); can’t verbally ask you for a blanket (aphasia); or can’t recall the word “thermostat” to request that it be adjusted (anomia).

If you notice sudden changes in your parent’s ability to talk, understand conversations or properly engage with everyday objects, speak with a geriatrician. A proper diagnosis and further insight on your parent’s unique forms of cognitive impairment will help you set behavior expectations for yourself and provide better care for your parent.

How can I determine the cause of my parent’s anger?

Ask yourself these questions: Is this behavior new? If so, when did it start? How often does it occur? If the behavior isn’t new, how is it different? What happened right before the outburst occurred? Observing your parent’s behavioral patterns will help determine if an unmet need is truly the root of their anger.

Many memory care professionals use a simple assessment called PIECES. Designed to determine unmet needs in critical categories, PIECES. stands for: physical, intellectual, emotional, capabilities, environmental and social.

  • Physical – Is your parent hungry, thirsty, in pain, not feeling well or in need of a bath? Have they started or stopped any new medications?
  • Intellectual – Are they having trouble speaking, in a state of confusion, or having issues hearing, seeing or identifying objects and people?
  • Emotional – Are they experiencing depression or grief over a loss or major life change?
  • Capabilities – Is your parent frustrated because they need help handling daily tasks such as eating, bathing or getting dressed?
  • Environmental – Are changes in their surroundings triggering? Assess the space. Is it too noisy? Might they find the temperature uncomfortable? Is it dark or cluttered?
  • Social – Are they bored or isolated? Are they overwhelmed by too many people around them? Do they feel as if their care provider is moving too fast, ignoring them or showing impatience?

Multiple factors can contribute to your parent’s behavior. Use your observation skills to help narrow down causes. Rule out pain first.

“A lot of people who are angry or scream are in pain. Something’s hurting. Pain is the most underdiagnosed symptom in people with dementia,” says Schneider.

Check for infections such as a urinary tract infection (UTI), which can cause discomfort and worsen dementia symptoms.

Focus on feelings, not facts. If your parent believes they are in another time and place, go along with it. When you live in their moment, it may be easier to find the meaning behind their words or actions.

“A woman in our community would often wander off. We learned that she – like my grandmother – always kept her purse by her side. She needed her purse,” says Schneider.

“Once we gave her a purse, the behavior improved. We even put fake money and coins inside. She felt secure and safe at that point. If anything happened, she was ready. Small things like that can address an unmet need.”

Redirect their energy to diffuse agitation. If your parent is suddenly agitated and shouting while around people or during an activity, they may feel overwhelmed. Try moving to a quieter spot and play music for them.

Overall, make it a habit to exercise the highest level of empathy possible during an outburst. You have the cognitive functions to regulate your emotions, control your body and communicate your needs to the world, your parent does not. Practice patience with your parent and yourself. Some unmet needs are obvious, others take time to figure out.

How do I cope during difficult moments?

There is an undeniable pain and grief that comes when you no longer recognize your parent because of dementia. What is the best way to help your parent and – equally as important – how do you help yourself?

If your parent with dementia often reacts combatively, or you’re overwhelmed by their anger, it’s okay to step away. Make sure, above all else, that both you and your parent are in a safe environment to avoid harm. Don’t try to restrain them. If you do need to call 911, make sure to notify emergency responders that your parent has dementia.

Replacing the main caregiver – even if that caregiver is you – may be the appropriate intervention for ongoing anger.

“They recognize that their son or daughter, who they used to take care of, is now taking care of them. It might be time to bring somebody else in to provide care. There’s nothing that you’re doing wrong,” says Schneider.

Lean on your support system when you can. Beware of caregiver burnout, and consider counseling when your own emotions are too overwhelming to manage alone.

We’re here to help

We understand the complicated dynamics of caring for those with dementia and how they impact the relationship between parent and adult child. It isn’t easy. We can point you in the direction of support groups, counseling and other senior care resources available for families coping with the effects of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

If you’d like more information about the ways we can help – from geriatric care managers to short-term stays – we’re here when you need us. Find your local memory care community to get in touch with our staff.

Our Guide to Responding to Dementia-Related Behaviors (PDF)

Categories
Alzheimer’s & Dementia

6 activities for dementia patients

Women playing the piano together

When it comes to dementia, boredom invites agitation, restlessness and increased confusion, especially in the evening. Engaging in hobbies, passions and interests promotes communication and uplifts the spirit.

You can create dementia-friendly activities that leverage your parent’s strengths, focusing on their abilities instead of deficiencies. This can provide a sense of structure and purpose to time, and also positively impact your parent’s cognitive, physical and emotional health.

1. Sing songs or play a musical instrument

Take a tip from healthcare professionals who prioritize music for dementia patients. Memories attached to music are the last to leave the brain and a powerful tool of expression when communication becomes difficult. Music decreases depression and anxiety, supports cognition, and improves overall well-being.

Musical participation groups are popular activities in memory care communities and have been clinically shown to boost memory in those with mild dementia. Was your parent a talented pianist? Join them at the keyboard.

Here are other musical instruments your parent may enjoy:

  • Drums or bongos
  • Tambourine
  • Harmonica
  • Ukulele
  • Mbira

Sing or play familiar songs and let your parent take the lead, or simply listen. Both will positively impact their well-being. Easily accessible headphones paired with a playlist of their favorite tunes invites joy and promotes independence.

2. Repair or build simple items

Was your parent handy around the house? Did they show interest in carpentry or woodworking? If so, they may find fulfillment with hands-on projects modified for their ability. Simple birdhouse kits, wooden model ships and similar projects may be ideal activities for dementia at the beginning and middle stages. If cognitive impairment is more advanced, consider tinker boxes or busy boards made with wood and metal. Avoid anything with childlike features.

“I used to work with a retired mechanical engineer,” says Catherine Schneider, Director of Resident Well-Being Curriculum at Atria Senior Living. “He was very smart, and very good with his hands. He loved to fix things. We purchased things from Goodwill and broke them, and he would fix them.”

3. Reminisce and share stories

If your parent loves to share stories from the past, encourage them to continue doing it! Open a photo album, look at keepsakes or prompt stories. While it may seem simple and passive, engaging long-term memory is actually therapeutic and helps your parent feel empowered, at peace and important. Maximize the effectiveness by following these guidelines for engagement:

  • Allow your parent to guide you
  • Ask open-ended questions when prompted
  • Allow time for silence
  • Share your own memories
  • If a sad memory occurs, give your parent space to feel the emotions that come with it
  • Listen to them; gently move on to a more positive memory when it feels appropriate within the conversation

Take your at-home reminiscence therapy beyond photo albums and keepsakes if you can. Consider books or other items centered around important past experiences. For example, if your parent worked on airplanes, show them a small replicate model and see what memories arise. If your parent was a doctor, keep an anatomy textbook on hand and flip through a few pages together.

4. Complete daily household tasks together

As menial as it may seem, cleaning and completing small household tasks are stimulating as well as rewarding activities for dementia. You may already have a schedule centered around care, meals and medication management – work in ability-appropriate tasks when possible and assist when necessary. There is power in routine when it comes to dementia. Use it to your advantage, and theirs.

Here are a few examples of familiar, dementia-friendly activities your parent can complete around the house:

  • Make their bed in the morning
  • Wash and dry dishes after meals.
  • Sort and polish silverware
  • Take the dog for a walk after dinner
  • Fold laundry or towels
  • Polish and shine shoes, and then put them away
  • Knead dough to make bread
  • Water house plants
  • Feed the cat in the morning

Those with dementia like to know what to anticipate next. Providing a flexible daily schedule with a variety of tasks provides structure and prevents idleness, which may exacerbate sundowners and sleepless nights. Completing these responsibilities may give your parent a sense of accomplishment and control over their environment.

5. Listen to favorite books and stories

Reading is a popular activity for seniors with dementia, and audiobooks are an excellent resource. Hearing the words of a favorite book or story engages the imagination and the mind. Audiobooks also help calm overstimulation. If your parent enjoys the sound of your voice, read to them instead. Either way, try not to exceed 15 to 20 minutes.

Look for opportunities to introduce sensory stimulation, which means using foods, aromatherapy and sounds to help your parent better engage with the story.

Researchers and healthcare professionals find sensory stimulation for dementia patients evokes positive emotions and memories, encourages relaxation, and improves mental well-being. Drinking warm cider and using autumn scents while listening to a story about fall or holding seashells while listening to a story set on the beach are examples of ways you can introduce sensory stimulation for your parent.

6. Create works of art through different materials

Creating art in any form is a meaningful activity for those with dementia. It is another method of sensory stimulation that allows for self-expression, which is important because dementia often impacts the brain’s ability to communicate.

Show your parent pictures of art to help their creativity flow. Take things slowly. You may have to assist them. Guide their hand as they paint a stroke of color. Work alongside your parent as they roll out clay. Help them cut pictures from a magazine to make a collage. String beads on a nylon cord for jewelry. Even if your parent never showed artistic skills before, you both may be impressed by what they create. More important, you may find your parent really enjoys the process.

We’re here when you need us

As dementia progresses, you will often find yourself managing the disease versus engaging with the person you know and love.

Finding meaningful moments to engage with your parent will help strengthen your relationship and help them live a healthier life – despite the cognitive impairment your parent is experiencing.

If you need more assistance navigating the challenges of dementia, we’re happy to share our expertise and senior care resources. Find a memory care community nearby and give us a call.

Our Guide on How to Engage a Parent with Dementia (PDF)