Oct 7, 2022
Nye Health Services Residents, Family Members, and Team Members COVID-19 Updates
I am excited to reach out to you for the first time since the announcement of my new position as the Chief Operating Officer and share the new updates that have occurred with COVID-19 updates, management, and guidelines, creating a much less restrictive environment.
The first exciting change is from “active screening” to “passive screening.” We have been completing active screening, meaning you physically have to complete the screening process when you enter the campus. We will now be transitioning to passive screening, meaning you will complete a personal self-screen prior to entering the campus ensuring that you do not have any Covid-19 symptoms and have not been exposed to anyone with Covid-19. We will no longer require anyone to complete screening at the kiosk moving forward! We will have signs posted at the campus entrances to provide everyone with education on the passive screening steps.
Mask
The second exciting change is for flexibility of wearing a mask based on the CDC report of county covid transmission levels. When we are in a “high or red” county, or during an outbreak status, all visitors and team members must wear a mask. When we are in a low or moderate county, visitors and team members do not need to wear masks, with the exception of unvaccinated team members, based on the additional Covid-19 mitigating approach.
Family members may choose to unmask, regardless of county covid transmission levels, when in a private room with their loved one. We will post signs on our entrance doors when masks are required. Currently, all of our campuses are in a red or high county, so masks are still required in common areas. We are anxiously awaiting the celebration for when we are in a low or moderate covid transmission level, and we can see everyone’s smiles!
Visitors are no longer restricted from using our community spaces with their loved ones. We are so excited about this change. We value an environment with laughter, celebrations, and spending time with our Nye family members.
Today we celebrate with you! We realize the Covid restrictions on visitation have been difficult, to say the least. We are so thankful for the understanding and support we have received from our residents, family members, and team members. Reflecting back to the beginning of the pandemic, when introductions to new great-grandchildren occurred through the window of their family member, to now reopening our doors with a new spirit of hope and positivity that there truly is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Kristin Harris
Chief Operating Officer
Sep 29, 2022
Nye Health Services is excited to announce changes to its leadership team responsibilities. Effective September 1, 2022, Ron Gross has transitioned from President of Nye Health Services to the Nye Culture Officer role.
Nye Health Services Announces Leadership Changes
“We made this change because people are our most important asset and focusing on them is key to our continued success,” states Russ Peterson, CEO of Nye Health Services. “Ron’s talents align so strongly in the three areas he will be focused on: leadership development, culture integration, and hospitality-based service.”
With Mr. Gross’ transition to Culture Officer, the operations of Nye Health Services will be under the leadership of Kristin Harris. Mrs. Harris will move from her current position of Vice President of Operations to the Chief Operating Officer (COO) effective immediately.
“Kristin has been a passionate and focused leader for our company and our campuses,” shared Mr. Peterson. “Mrs. Harris is a talented executive devoted to serving our residents and their families. She will provide continued strong leadership for our teams.”
What We Do
Nye Health Services provides a complete continuum of healthcare services for older adults seeking independent and assisted living, state-of-the-art rehabilitation, or traditional skilled care with campuses in Fremont, NE (Nye Square, Nye Legacy, and Nye Pointe), Lincoln, NE (Gateway Vista), and Norfolk, NE (The Meadows).
Nye Health Services | Independent & Assisted Living Communities
We are 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 to learn more about what sets Nye apart. Schedule a tour of a community near you today!
For additional information about Nye Health Services, visit us online at www.nyehealthservices.com.
May 4, 2022
As we grow older many things change, and one of those things is our memory. This is why most people use sticky notes and calendar reminders to make sure they don’t forget certain tasks in daily life or events. When we grow older, we experience more frequent memory loss. This is completely normal when it comes to aging. Although people who suffer from dementia experience a high level of memory loss, there is a difference between normal aging forgetfulness and dementia. Before panicking and assuming you have dementia, you need to understand what the symptoms are of each.
How to Tell The Difference Between Normal Forgetfulness and Dementia
Normal Forgetfulness
While it can be frustrating, this type of forgetfulness comes with aging. Normal forgetfulness is typically not progressive and does not impact daily life. Some examples of normal forgetfulness include occasionally misplacing objects or forgetting appointments. These lapses are usually linked to two conditions:
Absentmindedness and Transience
These two conditions are a normal part of aging according to Harvard Medical School. Absentmindedness relates to the focus of your brain, which could be like forgetting an appointment because your mind is not preoccupied with the thought of it. Transience describes the brain’s process of clearing out old, unnecessary memories to make space for new ones. Both are normal and not indicative of memory loss or dementia.
Forgetfulness and Mental Issues
Memory loss can occur due to an individual’s health conditions deteriorating according to the National Institute on Aging. People who have had or continue to struggle with mental health issues like depression are sometimes mistaken for having similar symptoms to dementia.
When someone is dealing with depression, they are highly preoccupied with what has caused their sadness and their anxiety. When someone is constantly worrying and/or obsessing over a recent tragedy, it can lead to forgetting other memories or topics.
Warning Signs of Dementia
Dementia refers to a group of conditions that cause memory loss and cognitive decline, worsening over time. People with dementia experience progressive changes that significantly affect daily living. Common types of dementia include Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, and mixed dementia, which involves multiple forms of dementia simultaneously. Recognizing early signs of dementia is crucial to seeking support. Warning signs of dementia include:
Personality Change
People may experience extreme changes in personality according to the Alzheimer’s Association. When seniors are in the middle stages of dementia, they will suddenly become more prone to paranoia, impulsiveness, and even aggressive behavior.
Forgetting Important Information
When someone is suffering from dementia, it is not about forgetting a thing as simple as where they have left an object or the date of an appointment that they had scheduled. Instead, this kind of memory loss can cause an individual to forget the names of their family members and friends. These types of memory problems should prompt you to take the individual to a medical professional for diagnosis.
Disorientation
Another common symptom that those who suffer from dementia will experience is a tendency to become disorientated in new environments. This disorientation extends to both time and place according to the University of Illinois.
When an older individual is or is starting to struggle with dementia, and moves to an unfamiliar environment, the unfamiliar stimuli can start to induce the feeling of insecurity, causing panic and anxiety within the person. Elders experiencing dementia and becoming disorientated will seem extremely lost to onlookers and they can become aggressive, especially with caregivers.
When it comes to differentiating between normal forgetfulness and dementia, you need to take a closer look at the symptoms. While senior citizens have symptoms that overlap, memory loss is more intense in those who experience dementia. This is because the memories that they lose are highly important which normal forgetfulness cannot explain.
Normal forgetfulness is not progressive and should not be a cause for concern. Dementia on the other hand will develop and worsen over time. If you have tried to identify what the individual is experiencing and you still do not confidently have an answer, you should talk to a doctor near you. What could make the diagnosis a lot easier is to take the person to a doctor who already knows them. This doctor might be able to pick up on signs and symptoms much quicker.
Additional Information: 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s
At The Meadows, we understand the unique challenges that individuals facing memory loss encounter, and our Memory Care Services are designed to provide compassionate and specialized support. As we age, it’s natural for memory to undergo changes, leading to occasional forgetfulness. However, when memory loss becomes more pronounced and starts affecting daily life, it may be a sign of a more serious condition like dementia.
Recognizing the Signs and Seeking Support
It’s essential to recognize the signs of memory loss early on and seek professional support. If you or a loved one is experiencing persistent memory challenges, consider consulting with our experienced team at The Meadows. Common signs that may warrant exploration include:
- Difficulty in Remembering Names and Faces: Memory loss that goes beyond occasional forgetfulness and involves forgetting names of family members or close friends.
- Changes in Behavior: Sudden and significant changes in personality, such as increased paranoia, impulsiveness, or aggressive behavior.
- Disorientation in New Environments: Becoming easily disoriented, especially in unfamiliar settings, leading to feelings of insecurity and anxiety.
Our commitment at The Meadows is to provide not only quality care but also a nurturing environment that promotes overall well-being. If you’re seeking specialized Memory Care Services, we invite you to explore The Meadows and discover how we can support you or your loved one on this journey.
Our Memory Care Services at The Meadows go beyond traditional senior living. We offer personalized care that address the unique needs of people with dementia, ensuring a supportive and enriching environment. Key features of our memory care services program include:
- Individualized Care Plans: We recognize that each individual’s journey with memory loss is unique. Our experienced team creates personalized care plans that address the specific cognitive and emotional needs of each resident.
- Engaging Activities: Mental stimulation is crucial for individuals with memory loss. Our Memory Care program incorporates a variety of engaging activities designed to enhance cognitive function and provide a sense of purpose.
- Safe and Secure Environment: The Meadows provides a secure environment to ensure the safety of our residents. Our facilities are designed with features that prevent wandering and promote a sense of security.
- Compassionate Staff: Our dedicated staff members undergo specialized training in dementia care. They are committed to providing compassionate assistance, fostering a supportive atmosphere, and building meaningful connections with residents.
- Family Involvement: We believe in the importance of family involvement. Families are encouraged to actively participate in the care process, and we provide resources and support to help them navigate the challenges associated with memory loss.
For more information about our Memory Care Services and to schedule a visit, please visit our Memory Care Services page or contact us directly. At The Meadows, we are dedicated to helping individuals live each moment to the fullest, fostering a sense of purpose and connection in their lives.
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
Apr 6, 2022
Occupational therapy is a type of medical treatment that focuses on the improvement of fine motor skills and development. While physiotherapy is about larger motor movements, the point of occupational therapy is to improve and strengthen the link of smaller movements to the brain. Someone might require occupational therapy after they have been in an accident or had a stroke. In other cases, occupational therapy services can also be necessary to repair other types of motor damage, such as arthritis. It is possible for someone at any age to need an occupational therapist (OT), however, elderly people are more likely to need the assistance of an occupational therapist.
What Does an Occupational Therapist Do for Aging Adults?
As you get older, it’s completely normal for your motor skills to begin to worsen. Occupational therapy is there to help patients close the gap. Contrary to popular opinion, occupational therapy is not just for when emergencies or accidents occur. In fact, OT is a great way for aging adults to maintain fine motor skills and improve their range of motion so they can remain living independently.
What Does an Occupational Therapist Do?
Occupational therapists work to improve the body’s fine motor skills in patients of all ages. Typically, this involves hand coordination, hand-eye coordination, and other fine skills that might have degenerated. An occupational therapist is not a once-off appointment. In fact, regaining the ability to perform tasks of daily living can take several appointments spread over weeks or months.
When guiding occupational therapy for seniors, an occupational therapist will need to work closely with the patient. Usually, this means developing a close relationship with them around which particular therapies need the most urgent aid.
Who Needs an Occupational Therapist?
An occupational therapist can be necessary at any age due to rehabilitation or a specific physical condition.
Age can physically slow you down, and getting older can mean that you are more affected by health conditions such as arthritis and discomfort in the joints. While an occupational therapist can be necessary after a life-changing event such as a stroke or accident, this is not the most common reason people see an occupational therapist.
Anyone who notices a decline in the mobility of their joints and general movement could benefit from occupational therapy as well as physiotherapy. Although medication can make a big difference and reduce pain and discomfort, this is a temporary solution. Instead, the introduction of occupational therapy programs can make a huge difference in relieving symptoms long term.
Key Benefits of Occupational Therapy?
The goal of occupational therapy is to reduce inflammation and pain, while also promoting physical longevity and fine motor skills. A professional occupational therapist will work with older adults to focus on the quality of life, and quality of movement. Although rehabilitation from an injury is a common reason to see an occupational therapist, it’s not the only one.
For elderly patients, an occupational therapist will angle their therapies toward treating the most common consequences of age. Again, quality of life and movement are the point of long-term occupational therapy appointments.
As you get older, some daily activities become harder. One key benefit of occupational therapy is that it is aimed at making everyday tasks easy again. If mobility or reflexes have reduced due to age, then an occupational therapist is likely the appointment that’s most important to make next.
Who Are Aging Adults?
The term elderly typically refers to anyone above the age of 65. This is the point at which the body starts to respond in different ways. Things such as collagen and bone don’t grow or heal as fast as they used to. At this age, conditions like arthritis might also become a real problem.
When the signs of these conditions begin to show up, see an occupational therapist as soon as possible. Occupational therapists work in conjunction with physical therapists on strength and balance training to help prevent falls. Don’t wait until a serious emergency or injury happens to make occupational therapy a priority. It can benefit someone’s health in many ways to look for a good occupational therapist earlier rather than later.
How to Find an Occupational Therapist Near You
If you want to find a trusted occupational therapist in your area, head to Google and search for an “occupational therapist near you”. Consider reviews, and look for an occupational therapist that matches your needs the most. Never be afraid to call several, and never be afraid to switch from one occupational therapist to another. Finding the best occupational therapist for you can lead to a better quality of life and movement.
At Nye Health Services, we offer outpatient therapy at all of our five locations in Fremont, Lincoln, Norfolk, NE, and the surrounding areas. We have licensed occupational therapists on staff to help along with complimentary transportation. We also take Medicare, Medicaid, and most private health insurance. With outpatient therapy services, you get access to experienced professionals and personalized treatment plans to fit your needs.
Additional Information: Occupational Therapy Interventions for Productive Aging Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults
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
Jan 28, 2022
A companion is someone you feel affection towards and enjoy spending time with. A companion can be a close friend, sibling or someone you share a more intimate relationship with, such as a romantic partner. Companions are those who are easy to converse with, reminisce with, go out to dinner with, and enjoy special moments with. As you begin aging, companionship takes on a much deeper meaning. In this article, we will explore why companionship for seniors important as well as things you can do to help find a companion as you age.
Finding Companionship While Aging: A Guide for Seniors
What should you look for in an elderly companion?
An important aspect of companionship is both parties respecting one another’s space and time spent with other people. This helps to make sure that you both maintain your own friendships and interests. An ideal companion is easy-going, light-hearted, happy, and fun to be around. The perfect companion has similar interests to you and is someone you find interesting. Similar interests in charity organizations, games, volunteering, and movies can be tremendously beneficial to a friendship. Maturity and openness are also important aspects to consider. You want your companion to be un-defensive and vulnerable, honest, and full of integrity. When your companion acts with integrity, they are committed to their word. This is important in companionship. Respect, independence, empathy, and affection are character assets of a worthy companion.
Companionship is important as we get older
Companionship is incredibly important you begin aging. Having a companion prevents seniors from isolating which can be detrimental to one’s health. Companionship enriches the lives of seniors by promoting better physical, emotional, and mental health. It also helps keep seniors stimulated, active, positive, and socially active. Studies have shown that maintaining strong social bonds as you age, reduces the risk of developing age-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis.
Dating and Companionship Apps for Seniors
As you become older, you may find your life becoming fuller and busier with work, family, hobbies, traveling, and spending time with friends. When you are on the go all the time, you might find it difficult to meet new people. The same may be true if you are more of an introvert and are unsure how to get out.
Although most dating apps appear to be for young adults looking for romance, these apps can be great for aging seniors looking for a companion. In fact, there are many great apps for finding a companion that are worth a try. Dating apps can be tedious and frustrating. However, they can also be very helpful if you stick with them. As a word of caution, be wise and be aware of scammers.
Here are some apps specifically designed to cater to the needs and preferences of seniors:
- SilverSingles: This platform is exclusively for singles over 50. It utilizes a comprehensive personality test to match users based on compatibility, preferences, and interests.
- OurTime: Owned by the same company as Match.com, OurTime focuses on helping seniors find companionship, friendships, and romance. It has a user-friendly interface and offers various communication tools.
- eHarmony: While not exclusively for seniors, eHarmony’s thorough matching system and focus on long-term relationships make it suitable for older adults seeking companionship.
Activities in your Community
Volunteering in your community is a wonderful way to meet new people. Offer to volunteer at one of your favorite charity organizations or an outreach program. Participate in various social groups and activities like book clubs, art classes, flower arranging classes, and card games. Volunteer to visit and read to the elderly at assisted living facilities or local nursing homes. You might meet a lot more like-minded friends this way.
What are the benefits of having a companion as you age?
Late adulthood is often marked by physical or cognitive decline. Companionship interaction can serve as a buffer and enhance your quality of life. It is important to remember that as you get older, you are still living your life with goals to achieve. In fact, you might be revisiting past goals and evaluating how these were met. Having a companion to discuss goals with and talk them over with can give you a sense of fulfillment. Having a companion to share your late years with will keep you feeling loved, cared for, and content.
Additional Information: Never Too Old to Find New Friends
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!
Jan 28, 2022
The choice between assisted living and a nursing home can be a difficult one to make. While many people believe the two are synonymous, each type of senior living community offers different types of services. In this article, we compare the services, costs, and features of assisted living vs a nursing home to help you decide the best level of care for you or your loved one.
Assisted Living vs Nursing Home
Assisted Living (AL)
Assisted living communities are places where seniors are able to receive custodial care. Custodial care is where there is around-the-clock care to assist in daily living activities such as:
- bathing
- dressing
- walking
- getting in and out of bed
- using the bathroom
- preparing food
- medication management
Assisted living residents are able to receive proper care and help with these everyday activities and more. It is common to find the “5 Communities” of care within Assisted living facilities including: assisted living, rehabilitation, residential living, skilled nursing, and memory care.
What medical services do assisted living communities offer?
In assisted living communities, residents are generally in good health. However, there are different levels of medical attention available to them depending on their individual needs. Staff members are able to administer medication to residents as well as provide transportation to residents to and from their doctor appointments.
Living Space at Assisted Living Facilities
Most assisted living facilities offer apartment-style living with bedrooms, bathrooms, and living spaces. Depending on each resident’s situation, they may live in a unit individually or share it with a spouse or friend. Housekeeping services are available on all at of our campuses for an extra fee, as are laundry and meal preparation services. Common dining rooms offer meals to residents at set times throughout the day.
This senior living option also offers a variety of entertainment and fun activities for the residents to participate in. Activities might include physical exercise, art and creativity projects, games, and socializing.
Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF)
Nursing homes offer similar services to those of AL facilities, however, to a different degree. A skilled nursing care facility is a community in which residents have rooms instead of apartments. Although residents may not need custodial care, arrangements can be made. Nursing homes have a number of common areas in which residents are able to socialize together.
Many nursing home facilities also have gardens for residents to enjoy. For residents who need rehabilitative care such as speech and occupational therapy, respiratory therapy, and physical therapy, services are made available to them.
What medical services do nursing homes offer?
Nursing homes also referred to as skilled nursing facilities offer around-the-clock medical care, especially where chronic illness is a concern. While some residents might only require a short stay after a hospital stay, other residents choose to live in nursing homes long-term, sometimes permanently.
Residents in nursing homes require more comprehensive care to meet their daily needs. Nurses receive proper training to help them to bathe, get dressed, use the restroom, and change their linens. Dieticians ensure all residents are receiving proper nutrition. If residents need assistance with eating, certified nursing assistants are on hand to provide this service.
Living Space at Nursing Homes
Depending on the nursing home and resident’s preference, they may share a room and bathroom or have their own individual room and bathroom. Most nursing homes offer a common dining room where residents may share meals with friends and family. Nursing homes also offer lounge areas for reading, and common rooms offering a variety of activities.
Activities in nursing homes include games that are mentally stimulating or relate to occupational therapy, art classes, and even cooking classes. Physical therapists are available to work with patients individually to help them gain strength, prevent falls, and improve overall mobility.
Does insurance cover the costs of a nursing home or assisted living facility?
Some Medicaid programs do pay for nursing homes or assisted living facilities. However, it is required in some States that Medicaid beneficiaries spend their personal funds before Medicaid starts paying for services. Most of the time families use their private funds to pay for assisted living communities by using their combined savings, retirement accounts, and pension pay-outs. It is not uncommon for family members to make contributions towards the costs of their elderly family member’s expenses.
Financial Planning
Long-term insurance policies are available to invest in, to help cover the costs of assisted living or nursing home facilities. Before investing in a policy, be sure to read the provisions of the policy carefully to make sure that you are covered and taken care of when the time comes.
Nye Health Services | Independent & Assisted Living Communities in Nebraska
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, 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!
