Nov 15, 2022
Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks, enjoy delicious food, and spend time with loved ones. If you are a resident of an assisted living community, or if you have a loved one who is, you may be wondering how to celebrate Thanksgiving. Rest assured, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the holiday and make it memorable whether you live close to family or far apart. Here are some tips on how to celebrate and make the most out of Thanksgiving in assisted living.
How to Celebrate Thanksgiving in Assisted Living
Create a Festive Space
Get into the holiday spirit by hanging up some of your favorite fall and Thanksgiving-themed decorations. From garlands and wreaths to tablecloths and centerpieces, a little holiday cheer can go a long way. Try to incorporate items from past Thanksgiving that remind you of your favorite holiday memories. Â
Enjoy a Special Thanksgiving Meal
Just because you’re not cooking a turkey doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving feast. If your family lives close by, make plans to join them for a special meal or talk to staff members/activities directors about hosting a potluck on campus with your family members in one of the gathering rooms.
Utilizing a gathering room on campus may depend on the county’s COVID-19 positivity rate, so please check with the campus directly to confirm availability and the current COVID-19 protocols. Learn more about our current COVID-19 policies and visitation guidelines here.
If your family lives far away, talk to the team members about joining your friends and team members for a meal on campus.Â
Enjoy Community Events
Many assisted living facilities will host special Thanksgiving events and themed activities leading up to and on the holiday. This is a great way to meet new people and get involved in your assisted living community.
Nye Health Services team members are passionate about celebrating special events to ensure residents feel at home even if they are far away. Talk to the team members and check the activity calendar to ensure you know what special events are going on this holiday season.
Reminisce about past holiday memories
Holidays are the perfect time to revisit favorite memories. Old photos are a great way to remember happy Thanksgiving holiday memories. Bring old photos of your favorite memories if you are visiting a loved one. You’ll be surprised how remembering happy times can help spark conversation, even for loved ones suffering from dementia.
Celebrate Virtually
If you live far away from your loved one in assisted living, talk to them ahead of time about their plans. If they’re planning on attending any community events or having a mini-feast with other residents, let them know that you’re happy for them but will miss them. Just knowing that you’re thinking of them will help them feel connected to you and make the holiday special.
Schedule a video call
Technology has made it easier to stay in touch with loved ones who live far away. If you can’t be there in person, schedule a video call with your loved one on Thanksgiving day. You can catch up, chat about your plans for the day, and even share a meal together (virtually).
No matter how you choose to celebrate, Thanksgiving is a time to be grateful for all the wonderful things in our lives. From our families and friends to our homes and communities, there’s so much to be thankful for.
Nye Health Services | Award-Winning Assisted Living Facilities
Nye Health Services is passionate about providing older adults with a wide range of wellness and health services that maximize health and well-being. If you are searching for an assisted living community, explore one of our three locations in eastern Nebraska. Each campus provides award-winning health and wellness services, comfortable apartments and/or suites, and numerous amenities to help you live life to the fullest!
Contact Nye Health Services to learn more about the assisted living amenities we offer or schedule a tour at any of our senior living communities in Fremont (Nye Legacy, Nye Square, & Nye Pointe), Norfolk (The Meadows), and Lincoln, Nebraska (Gateway Vista)!
Oct 17, 2022
As we age, it’s not uncommon to experience more aches and pains. We may find it harder to get up from a chair or walk around the block. These are all natural side effects of aging. However, just because they’re common doesn’t mean we have to resign to living with them. Physical therapy can help seniors maintain their quality of life by keeping them mobile and pain-free.
There are many different types of physical therapy exercises that can be tailored to each individual’s needs. A physical therapist will work with you to design a plan that meets your unique needs and helps you achieve your goals.
The Benefits of Physical Therapy for Seniors
Here are the top five benefits physical therapy services can provide seniors:
Increased Strength and Endurance
As people age, they often lose muscle mass and bone density. This can lead to reduced strength and endurance, making it difficult to perform daily tasks. Physical therapy can help seniors build muscle strength and improve their endurance so they don’t have to worry about becoming overly fatigued during activities like walking or shopping.
In addition, physical therapy can also help seniors improve their cardiovascular health. This is important because cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among adults over the age of 65. By improving their cardiovascular health, seniors can reduce their risk of heart attack, stroke, and other serious health conditions.
Improved Balance and Coordination
Reduced muscle mass and bone density can also lead to reduced balance and coordination. This can make it difficult for seniors to stay steady on their feet and maintain their balance when walking or standing. Physical therapy can help improve balance and coordination by strengthening the muscles that support the joints and helping patients practice tasks requiring coordination.
Increased Flexibility
Improved balance and coordination can also lead to increased flexibility. This is important because it can help seniors reduce their risk of falling. Physical therapy can help increase strength and flexibility by stretching the muscles and joints. In addition, physical therapy can also help improve range of motion, which is important for maintaining independence long term as people age.
Decreased Pain
Physical therapy also helps seniors manage pain. Seniors may experience pain due to conditions like arthritis, which is caused by the deterioration of the cartilage that cushions the joints. Physical therapy can help decrease pain by using techniques like heat, cold, massage, and electrical stimulation. In addition, physical therapy can also help improve joint function, which can reduce pain in affected areas.
Improved Mobility
Finally, physical therapy can also help improve mobility. This is important because it allows seniors to remain independent as they age. Physical therapy does this by strengthening the muscles that support the joints and helping patients practice moving differently. In addition, physical therapy can also help reduce stiffness in the joints, which makes it easier to move around.
If you’re looking for ways to stay physically fit, healthy and independent as you age, look no further than physical therapy. Physical Therapy will help you improve your strength and balance, and regain your mobility.
At Nye Health Services, our outpatient therapy program is a top choice among patients throughout Nebraska and surrounding areas that want to maintain independence and recover from a mild to moderate injury.
Nye Health Services | Independent & Assisted Living Communities
Nye Health Services is passionate about providing older adults with a wide range of wellness and health services that maximize health and well-being. If you are searching for a senior living community, explore one of our five locations in eastern Nebraska. Each campus provides award-winning health and wellness services, comfortable apartments and/or suites, and numerous amenities to help you live 2022 to the fullest!
Contact Nye Health Services to learn more about our outpatient therapy services or schedule a tour at any of our senior living communities in Fremont (Nye Legacy, Nye Square, & Nye Pointe), Norfolk (The Meadows), and Lincoln, Nebraska (Gateway Vista)!
Oct 17, 2022
When it comes time to find an assisted living community, it’s important to take the time to compare all of your options. The decision-making process can be complicated with so many different communities, senior care levels available, and amenities. Here is a checklist of items to compare when considering different assisted living communities to help you make the best decision for yourself or your family members.
How to Compare Assisted Living Options
Quality of Care
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing an assisted living facility is the quality of care and type of services provided.
First, find out if the assisted living facility is licensed and certified by the state and how it ensures the quality of care it provides its residents. You can find licensed and certified assisted living communities in Nebraska here.
Second, some facilities offer only essential services, such as help with bathing, dressing, and hygiene. Other assisted living facilities will provide more comprehensive care, including medication management, transportation, and rehabilitation services. It’s essential to evaluate your or your loved one’s needs and find a facility that provides the essential services they need. When touring each assisted living facility, you can get a feel for the quality of care and services.
Cost
It is important to consider cost when choosing an assisted living community. Make sure to clearly understand all monthly fees and charges associated with each community you’re considering. Be aware that not all assisted living facilities provide the same options for the same price.
The little things add up, so inquire if you have to pay extra for special diets, utilities, cable and internet, laundry, housekeeping, transportation to doctor’s appointments, church services, or shopping.
In addition to the monthly rent amount, find out if and when that charge be increased and by how much.
- Does the rent go up if the resident’s level of care changes?
- What are the charges if both you and your spouse live there and the two of you require different levels of care?
- If costs do increase, does the facility offer financial help for those who might no longer be able to pay?
All of these questions will help you make the best decision for your budget.
Amenities
Another factor to consider is the amenities they offer, from on-site amenities like fitness centers to off-site excursions and activities. Be sure to ask if the facility has a recreation director. The recreation director’s job is to provide activities for the residents and review the facility’s current activity schedule to get an idea of what’s offered and whether or not it fits your needs. Ensure the community you choose has amenities that are important to you, like a chapel, crafts, or exercise classes.
Medical Care
Medical care and options can vary widely depending on the facility. Ask if you are permitted to choose your own doctor, therapist, or pharmacy. Who would be responsible for giving you your medications? Who decides if a resident needs a higher level of care or must be transferred to a different facility?
Moving into an assisted living community is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Take the time to research and visit potential communities, so you can be sure that you’re making the best decision for your or your loved one’s needs.
Nye Health Services | Award-Winning Assisted Living Facilities
Nye Health Services is passionate about providing older adults with a wide range of wellness and health services that maximize health and well-being. If you are searching for an assisted living community, explore one of our three locations in eastern Nebraska. Each campus provides award-winning health and wellness services, comfortable apartments and/or suites, and numerous amenities to help you live life to the fullest!
Contact Nye Health Services to learn more about the assisted living amenities we offer or schedule a tour at any of our senior living communities in Fremont (Nye Legacy, Nye Square, & Nye Pointe), Norfolk (The Meadows), and Lincoln, Nebraska (Gateway Vista)!
Sep 6, 2022
This year, National Assisted Living Week (NALW) is celebrated the week of September 11-17. The purpose of NALW is to recognize the efforts of those working in assisted living communities and to spread awareness about what these communities offer. This year’s theme is Joyful Moments.
Ideas to Celebrate National Assisted Living Week
Throughout the week, our Nye Health Services campuses will have special events and activities. If you have a loved one living in an assisted living community, this is a great time to visit them. If you don’t have a personal connection to an assisted living community, you can still participate in National Assisted Living Week by spreading the word about all the positive ways an assisted living community enhances the lives of those who live in them. Here are some fun activities and ideas to consider, so you can join in the festivities and show your support for assisted living facility residents and staff members.
1. Make a Card or Letter
Make a card or write a letter expressing your gratitude for everything staff members do for assisted living residents every day. You can drop it off at our campus or mail it to one of the campuses directly.
2. Give Flowers or Baked Goods
Give flowers or baked goods to assisted living team members to say thank you. If you have a neighbor or family member who lives in an assisted living community, you could also bring them a treat!
3. Schedule a Tour
If you or a loved one are considering assisted living services, call to schedule a tour! Our team members would love to show you around our campuses.
4. #AssistedLivingWeek
Spread the word about all the great things happening at assisted living communities during National Assisted Living Week by sharing this blog post on social media using the hashtag #AssistedLivingWeek.
5. Challenge Yourself
Challenge yourself (or someone you know) to learn something new this week! Take an online cooking class, start learning a new language, or pick up a new hobby. One of the best things about growing older is that it’s never too late to learn something new!
No matter how you choose to celebrate, we hope that you’ll join us in celebrating National Assisted Living Week. Assisted living communities and staff members provide essential services and support to seniors across the country. National Assisted Living Week is our chance to show our appreciation for all they do. Let’s show our support and join in the festivities!Â
Learn more about National Assisted Living Week (NALW) – National Center For Assisted Living
Nye Health Services | Independent & Assisted Living Communities
Nye Health Services is passionate about providing older adults with a wide range of wellness and health services that maximize health and well-being. If you are searching for a senior living community, explore one of our five locations in eastern Nebraska. Each campus provides award-winning health and wellness services, comfortable apartments and/or suites, and numerous amenities to help you live 2022 to the fullest!
Contact Nye Health Services to learn more about the assisted living amenities we offer or schedule a tour at any of our senior living communities in Fremont (Nye Legacy, Nye Square, & Nye Pointe), Norfolk (The Meadows), and Lincoln, Nebraska (Gateway Vista)!
Aug 5, 2022
Seniors often worry that moving into an assisted living community means giving up their independence. However, this is not the case. Assisted living communities and their staff strive to help residents stay as independent as possible. With the help of a professional nursing team, seniors can still enjoy the freedoms they did before moving into an assisted living facility.
How to Stay Independent in Assisted Living
Here are a few ways assisted living communities and staff members help their residents stay independent.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Assisted living communities can offer help serving older adults with daily activities such as bathing, eating, and dressing. This gives seniors the freedom to live as independently as they wish, with the comfort of knowing that help is always available if needed. Assisted living communities also assist with medication management, scheduling, and transportation to doctor appointments to help seniors stay on top of their health, so family members don’t have to worry.
Enjoy a Social Life
Assisted living communities are a great way for seniors to stay connected with family and friends while making new friends as well. Assisted living communities provide endless opportunities for socializing with friends and family. Residents can schedule regular visits with their family or go out with friends for parties, gatherings, and holidays.
Assisted living communities also provide lots of activities to keep seniors social on campus. From weekly card games to crafts to local entertainment, there is something for everyone to enjoy with the convenience of staying in place.
Stay Physically Active
Assisted living communities can also help residents stay physically active. Residents can participate in group exercise classes or stretch in the fitness room on campus. Residents can even choose to have a team member create a personalized exercise program tailored to their goals. Assisted living communities also provide transportation to off-campus activities if you prefer to get out and about.
Assisted Living Communities in Nebraska
Do you or a loved one need assistance with daily activities? Are you looking for an assisted living community that will help you maintain your independence? At Nye Health Services, we firmly believe seniors can get the support they need and stay as independent as they want at our award-winning assisted living communities in Nebraska. Contact us today to learn more about what sets us apart or to schedule a tour of our Nye Square, The Meadows, or Gateway Vista communities!
Nye Health Services | Independent & Assisted Living Communities
Nye Health Services is passionate about providing older adults with a wide range of wellness and health services that maximize health and well-being. If you are searching for a senior living community, explore one of our five locations in eastern Nebraska. Each campus provides award-winning health and wellness services, comfortable apartments and/or suites, and numerous amenities to help you live 2022 to the fullest! Contact us today to learn more about what sets Nye apart or to schedule a tour of a community near you!
For additional information about Nye Home Health Care visit us at nyehomehealthcare.com
May 27, 2022
As you get older, your physical health changes. This transition can affect your mental health. It works both ways where mental and physical health will affect each other when one declines. Situations such as adjusting to a new living environment, adapting to new health issues, and having less independence will affect each person’s mental health in different ways. It is unfortunate that most of the mental health problems that a person experiences as they get older will go unnoticed. Oftentimes we just assume that behavioral changes are just a part of growing old. However, that is not completely the case. Older adults experiencing mental illness who are firm in their ways are also less likely to seek mental health care because of the stigma surrounding it.
Most Common Mental Health Problems for Aging Adults
Why Does it Occur in Older Generations?
Statistics show that there are over two billion individuals over the age of 60. That is a large portion of the population with unique needs when it comes to mental health care. Many of these people have experienced a lot in their lives that they may have never dealt with. Studies show that one in four adults experience problems with their mental health with the most common problems being depression and anxiety disorders.
One of the biggest problems that older generations have is dealing with dementia. Dementia is not a single disease; it’s an overall term — like heart disease — that covers a wide range of specific medical conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease.
With the rapid rate at which the world, technology, and beliefs change, it can be harder for older adults to keep up. Years of different challenges and adaptations to the world around them make keeping up very difficult. Stress and fatigue from a busy and active lifestyle over so many years also puts a strain on an individual, especially when their bodies are becoming physically weaker as they get older.
Causes of Mental Health Problems
There are a number of causes that can affect an older individual’s mental health and quality of life. Depression, Alzheimers, and anxiety are the top mental health problems that older adults can experience. All of these mental disorders can be caused by events and circumstances that they are in.
Events such as relocation or experiencing the loss of a loved one are common scenarios that older adults deal with. Older generations (those over 60 years old) have the highest suicide rate compared to any other age group. Loneliness and social isolation are big contributors to the mental health of older people as they have fewer social interactions with family members and friends compared to other generations.
Physical illnesses such as high blood pressure, obesity, heart disease, and a weaker immune system are also linked to mental health problems in aging adults. Alzheimer’s disease and the decline in the person’s cognitive ability can frustrate aging adults because they can’t do as much as they used to.
Signs of Mental Health Problems
If you or a loved one is experiencing any symptoms of mental health struggles, get them the help they need. Signs of mental health problems include:
- Irregular sleeping patterns (too much or too little sleep).
- Constantly worrying and/or experiencing suicidal thoughts.
- Negative in thoughts and opinions. Also, easily irritated and or/angry.
- Consuming harmful substances on a regular basis. This is substance abuse.
What Can You Do For Help?
If you or a loved one is experiencing any mental health struggles, contact a mental health professional or a family member immediately. You do not have to feel like you are burdening anyone. You can also talk with your primary care doctor about how you are feeling. Your doctor will be able to advise you on any medication that can be taken, as well as where you can go to get professional mental health help. There is no shame in asking for help – the biggest shame is not asking for help.
Additional Information: Mental Health Resources for Older Adults – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
Nye Health Services | Independent & Assisted Living Communities
Nye Health Services is passionate about providing older adults with a wide range of wellness and health services that maximize health and well-being. If you are searching for a senior living community, explore one of our five locations in eastern Nebraska. Each campus provides award-winning health and wellness services, comfortable apartments and/or suites, and numerous amenities to help you live 2022 to the fullest! Contact us today to learn more about what sets Nye apart or to schedule a tour of a community near you!
For additional information about Nye Home Health Care visit us at nyehomehealthcare.com
