Senior Living Blog by UMH | Independent Living Community

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5 W’s of Independent Living for Seniors

By: Tracey Haughton December 1st, 2022

Expert Answers to the Most Commonly Asked Questions When older adults think about the aging process, most hope to live as independently as possible for as long as possible. It could be said that independent living is the ultimate goal for aging adults. But beyond having that sense of independence, there’s more to achieving health and happiness throughout these precious years. Ultimately, seniors hope to embrace a lifestyle that enables them to truly thrive.

Safe Summertime Activities for Seniors Who Are Social Distancing

By: Elizabeth Bemis June 19th, 2020

As seniors look forward to summertime after the long, dreary months of winter’s chill, the idea of having to continue social distancing may feel incredibly disappointing. In the midst of a global pandemic, safety remains a primary concern for older adults who face increased risk in contracting the virus. But the cancellation of community gatherings and in-person events doesn’t have to be devastating. There is still a host of fun and energizing summertime activities for seniors to enjoy even as they remain safely socially distant. It’s more important than ever for older adults to stay physically and mentally healthy. The change of season is a perfect time to capitalize on the socially distant activities—both indoors and out—that put a swing back in your step, or that of an aging loved one.

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The Difference Between Assisted & Independent Living

By: Elizabeth Bemis June 22nd, 2017

For an older adult, the choice between assisted living and independent living usually depends on how well an individual can manage daily activities without extra assistance. Examples of daily activities include, but are not limited to: preparing meals, personal hygiene, managing medications, completing household chores, driving/coordinating transportation, and maintaining personal finances. Someone who has difficulty with any of these daily "independent" activities may want to consider the maintenance-free lifestyle of an assisted living community.

The Difference Between Age and Maturity

By: Jim Stinson September 30th, 2013

And The Mountains Echoed is a fascinating and disturbing novel by Khalem Hosseni, author of The Kite Runner and A Thousand Splendid Suns. In heart wrenching detail, he tells the story of a family from Afghanistan over a sixty-year period, each one of who continue to be affected by decisions made in earlier generations. It is a sometimes-grim reminder that, while we are free to alter our responses to the events of our lives, thus changing ourselves in some real way, we are always to some extent the product of our past.

Choosing the Right Assisted Living Community for You

By: Elizabeth Bemis August 30th, 2013

As you begin your search for the right assisted living community, you probably already know what your needs are and what to expect from your soon-to-be new home. If not, start assessing your current needs, whether it’s medication management, assistance with taking a shower or help tying your shoes. A caregiver may want to know many details, such as how a change in personal care needs over time would be handled by the staff or how the community can accommodate residents with dementia needs.

Managing your Aging Parent’s Health Needs

By: Elizabeth Bemis August 28th, 2013

According to a recent poll, the number of adult children providing personal or financial assistance to their parents has tripled in the last 15 years. Becoming a caregiver is a role few people plan for. Most people are thrust into the caregiver role unexpectedly, often when a parent suddenly suffers a stroke or a chronic condition worsens. This often inevitably leads to caregiver burnout and less effective management of a senior parent’s health needs.

Planning and Paying for Assisted Living

By: Elizabeth Bemis August 23rd, 2013

If you and your aging loved one are beginning to think about making a move to a senior living community, you have probably thought about the financial resources you will need for this investment. Most families have many questions about funding when they are searching for an assisted living community. How much will a monthly apartment rental cost? What is included? How much will additional care services cost? Are assisted living services included in the monthly rental or is there a separate fee? When touring an assisted living community, a senior living advisor can answer these questions and simplify the details of evaluating cost.

Is An Assisted Living Community Right For You?

By: Elizabeth Bemis August 19th, 2013

You’ll know when an assisted living community is right for you when it fits naturally into your healthcare and lifestyle needs. The first step is to know your needs; thereafter, gather as much information you can on the services and amenities offered within the community to decide whether assisted living makes a comparable fit.

Encouraging Socialization in Assisted Living Communities

By: Elizabeth Bemis August 16th, 2013

Making “small talk” can be an excellent way to break the ice and form a friendship. For many, however, starting off a conversation can be intimidating and can be better compared to an art form that few have truly mastered. Fortunately, there are easy ways for seniors to socialize in their assisted living communities, as nearly all facilities are designed with the purpose of providing opportunities for seniors to engage and connect.

10 Things You Should Have in Place for Your Aging Parents

By: Elizabeth Bemis April 12th, 2013

Watching your aging parent’s health decline is heart wrenching, especially when you feel like a helpless bystander. It’s during this time; however, you can show your loved one that you are their greatest fan! Start to ‘clean house’ by overseeing the affairs of your aging parents, ideally with their approval, and before a health crisis develops.

What the Assisted Living Boom Means to You

By: Elizabeth Bemis March 15th, 2013

In the period immediately following World War II, the United States experienced an increase in its birth rate. This period came to be known as the "baby boom," with those born during that time being known as "baby boomers." While this was a prosperous period in American history, we are beginning to face one of the unintended consequences of the baby boom… a large aging population. As baby boomers are getting older, many will be facing the decision to move into assisted living or other kinds of senior housing.