As the elderly population continues to grow in the US, more people are becoming caregivers either professionally or as a service to a loved one. These loving individuals who take care of family and close friends make up 80% of the long-term caregivers in our country, but the added stress of these increased responsibilities can be difficult to cope with. Being a caregiver is extremely rewarding, but something known as “caregiver stress” is common. Signs of caregiver stress include: Feelings of being overwhelmed or constantly worried Being tired more frequently than usual Over-sleeping or under-sleeping Large fluctuations in weight Losing interest in long-time habits or passions Too much stress in…

With the US population being comprised of a larger number of senior citizens than ever, senior health is more important than it ever has been. People are living longer lives now, than at any other point in human history, and the following tips will help keep the senior citizens in your life happy and healthy for a long time to come. Health screenings – Though applicable to more than just the senior population, putting an end to smoking habits is critical for a long life. Smoking causes cancer, stroke, and heart failure in the long term, and can cause excessive wrinkling of the skin, and even erectile dysfunction in men.…

The crisis in Puerto Rico in the wake of the recent hurricanes is sending tens of thousands of displaced Puerto Ricans to Florida, accelerating what has been a steady move from the island to the mainland and has triggered wide-ranging effects on schools, jobs, and especially housing. Over 1 million Puerto Ricans reside in Florida, and that number has been rising at the rate of about 1,000 families per month relocating from the island. The passing of Hurricane Maria could potentially send 100,000 Puerto Ricans to Florida, and though it may seem like a small number in a state with over 20 million residents, the newest additions to Florida include…

With the holidays in full swing, an important topic of discussion should be loved ones who live in assisted living facilities. During this joyous time of year, having loved ones in assisted living can present some unique challenges. Here are some ways to keep the holiday season feeling merry for your loved ones. Make time to visit Being able to spend more time with family is at the top of the holiday wish list for most residents. Holidays of years past likely involved socializing with and entertaining family and friends, so going without any of that type of interaction is a contributing factor to the holiday blues which are all…

Over 15 million Americans put their time and effort into taking care of a loved one who suffers from Alzheimer’s, dementia, or other ailments, but sometimes the toll it takes can be too great. When the burden of being a loved one’s caregiver becomes too high, it may be time to consider making a move to assisted living. Moving a loved one to assisted living is rarely an easy decision, but there are telltale signs you can look for in order to recognize when the time is right. Aggression Unfortunately, it is somewhat common for those who suffer from mental ailments like Alzheimer’s or dementia to exhibit physical aggression, and…

Submitted by Veronica Quinones, NorthStar Senior Advisors Choosing an Assisted Living Facility is not only a stressful and difficult time it is also a very emotional decision for all involved. It’s important to know what to look for when considering assisted living for your loved one. North Star Senior Advisors proudly partners with Encore at Avalon Park Assisted Living & Memory Care for a variety of reasons. North Star Senior Advisors’ understands the transitional process and guides families to communities such as Encore at Avalon Park Assisted Living Facility & Memory Care because of the care they provide, programs offered, and their state-of-the art facility. One of the things we…

Medicare is one of the most talked about items in relation to elder care, and still it is one of the most confusing for many people. Figuring out exactly what Medicare will and will not cover as it relates to your loved one’s living expenses is one of the most important steps in building a plan that secures their future. For those thinking about admitting a loved one to an assisted living facility, you’re undoubtedly wondering whether or not Medicare will cover their living expenses. While Medicare typically does not pay for assisted living facility costs, it is still a critical part of the elder care picture. Assisted living facilities…

One of the questions we are frequently asked is how assisted living is different from a nursing home. Nursing homes typically offer the most extensive care a person can receive outside of a hospital. Nursing homes deliver skilled nursing care, often by a registered nurse, who can provide medical monitoring and treatments. Nursing home often provide rehabilitation services designed to prepare the patient to return to independent living.   Assisted living services are usually offered in a residential environment in which the resident will reside long term or permanently. Assisted living fosters an environment of independence, providing one with a home-like living space, and opportunities to participate in social activities…

In every walk of life, communication is an incredibly valuable skill. Without communication, the expression of ideas, and emotions become incredibly difficult. Unfortunately, when a loved one is stricken with a disease such as dementia, all aspects of their lives are affected, and it changes how they view the world around them. Communication is one of the most important tools in helping those afflicted with dementia, and there are several styles and approaches one should consider. You Can Communicate Through More Than Just Words It is crucial to remember that dementia can make those with it feel disoriented and frightened. It is your job to make them feel comforted and…