Understanding Alzheimer's and Assisted Living Options
A good way to find a great retirement destination is to see if other seniors are moving there. In Cedar Rapids, that's certainly the case, with over 60s making up one in five people in this part of Iowa.
It's a relaxing and welcoming community with beautiful parks that provide somewhere to unwind in your later years.
Thanks to supportive assisted living communities like ours at Prairie Hills, it also has the help you need for an aging parent with an Alzheimer's diagnosis. Read on to understand more about Alzheimer's and assisted living options.
Alzheimer's Disease: A Progressive Condition
You may have heard a few things about Alzheimer's disease and are probably aware that it impacts memory in seniors. However, memory loss is only one part of this disease.
Those with the condition have a range of symptoms, like confusion, problems thinking, and even behavior and mood changes. It's also a progressive condition, so while symptoms start mild, someone with more severe Alzheimer's can struggle with basic tasks, and they may not recognize loved ones.
There is no cure for Alzheimer's, but the condition can be well managed with the help of professional support.
Alzheimer's and Assisted Living
Assisted living is a care option in a senior community. It involves having care teams available to help residents with everyday tasks they might find difficult. Memory services in assisted living could include support for:
- Dressing
- Bathing
- Medication management
This approach ensures residents can maintain their dignity and have the freedom to enjoy community life. That might also mean adopting a familiar structured routine that helps residents navigate their day.
Staff are also trained to handle some of the complexities that come with memory loss and can support residents with compassion and patience. It's an approach that offers peace of mind to families who need reassurance that their loved ones will receive the best care.
How Routines Can Help Those Experiencing Memory Loss
One of the advantages of community living is that you have everything you need under one roof, making it easy to create a routine.
Routines are sources of comfort for those facing memory loss. Taking part in familiar activities at the same time each day can put a resident at ease. It can help avoid emotions like fear or confusion that can arise if someone finds themselves in an uncertain situation or environment.
Prairie Hills Cedar Rapids staff can create personalized care plans that include a structured routine. We often work in partnership with families to ensure that those daily activities and meal times align with our residents' preferences.
Dementia Care Support: Creating a Safe Environment for Seniors
Families often worry about relatives with Alzheimer's if they can't provide 24/7 supervision. Some memory loss and confusion can put seniors or others in danger.
For example, someone with Alzheimer's may start cooking food on a stove and forget it is there, or they may leave a tap running in the bathroom. They could head out on a walk and become confused, disoriented, and lost.
At Prairie Hills Cedar Rapids, safety comes first. We have easy-to-navigate buildings, well-lit entrances and corridors, and calm interiors. There are emergency call systems and features to help those with mobility problems, such as handrails.
Cognitive Wellness in Care: How Social Activities Support Seniors
Social connections are vital and combat common risks in old age, like loneliness, isolation, and depression.
That's why we offer a variety of social activities in our community at Prairie Hills Cedar Rapids. They give memory loss residents a chance to stay connected throughout the day, make friends, and enjoy laughter and conversation. Activities might include:
- Arts and crafts workshops
- Music appreciation classes
- Games and quizzes
- Movies or dance nights
These all help to create a strong sense of belonging in our community. It's one of the reasons we have a warm, family-like atmosphere.
Alzheimer's and Aging: The Role of Health and Wellness
Keeping your body and mind strong can give you more energy, help you stay mobile, and improve focus. We provide numerous health and wellness activities to all our residents at Prairie Hills Cedar Rapids.
Residents might take part in the following:
- A low-impact exercise class
- Guided mindfulness activity
- A gentle walk
- Stretching exercises like yoga
Our team of staff is always on hand to guide and assist, and can create a structured program for residents with Alzheimer's. Putting wellness first means residents stay active for longer, enjoying all the benefits and amenities in our community.
Elder Memory Needs: Comfort and Convenience
Assisted living communities offer a comfortable, convenient, and supportive environment for residents with Alzheimer's, thanks to a team on hand to take care of the small things. Services include:
- Housekeeping
- Dining and meal preparation
- Room and building maintenance
All this helps residents enjoy a stress-free retirement life without being overburdened by chores. It can also provide peace of mind to families, knowing that their loved one with Alzheimer's is safe and not taking risks such as cooking hot meals or grocery shopping.
Living in Cedar Rapids: A Charming Retirement Location With Lots of Amenities
Families and residents often find that Cedar Rapids provides the perfect balance between cozy, small-town charm and plenty of amenities for those who want to do things beyond the community. There are tranquil spaces for relaxation and cultural attractions for those who love history or art.
Nearby, you'll find:
- Scenic spots like Ellis Park, next to the Cedar River
- Ellis Golf Course
- Cedar Rapids Museum of Art
- African American Museum of Iowa
In Cedar Rapids, you'll also find many fantastic restaurants, giving you ample choice if you want to arrange a family birthday or reunion. There are also some excellent stores and boutiques that you could visit alongside your loved one.
Finding the Right Support for Your Aging Parent
Alzheimer's and assisted living options are important considerations if you or a loved one faces memory loss. However, choosing a community with plenty of support and amenities means you don't have to compromise on quality of life.
At Prairie Hills at Cedar Rapids, we have a community that stands apart from others. Our commitment to personalized care and a variety of daily activities means residents' well-being always comes first. Book a tour today to discover more.