Written by webtechs

When Is the Right Time to Move From Assisted Living to Memory Care?

If your loved one’s dementia is progressing, it may be time to shift from assisted living to memory care. The decision can be a difficult one, since there is no single guideline for deciding when it’s time to make a change.

Transitions can be hard, particularly for those with dementia. You need to think about financial considerations, too, as the higher level of care at a memory care community usually comes with a higher price tag.

Selecting a community that helps residents make the change can make the decision easier. Families thinking about a senior living community for their loved one should consider what might happen if the loved one ultimately needs memory care. Continuous care in the same community offers great comfort to seniors and the people who love them.

The Difference Between Assisted Living and Memory Care

An assisted living community caters to seniors with a wide range of needs and conditions. In a memory care community, the community as a whole is designed around the individual needs of those with dementia. This means that memory care is a little more comprehensive. Your loved one will spend their days with highly experienced people at managing dementia and will soon become friends with other seniors living with the disease.

Other factors that make memory care unique include:

  • A focus on safety: Seniors with moderate to advanced dementia may wander or lose their ability to think acutely. Memory care communities are intended to keep them safe, without compromising their independence too much.
  • A more proactive method to socialization and activities: Dementia often means a loss of flexible thinking and socialization skills. Elderly living in assisted living usually can manage their own social lives. Those that are in memory care communities might need help socializing, choosing how to spend their days, and controlling their relationships.
  • Sharp awareness of sensory issues: Seniors with dementia can be overwhelmed by strange sights and sounds. They can also find great comfort in getting senses stimulated. Memory care communities work to keep seniors engaged and busy without making them seem overwhelmed or in danger.
  • Highly experienced team familiar with dementia: Dementia is more than simple memory loss. It can make it difficult in decision making, thinking clearly, and maintaining relationships. It can cause mobility issues and grooming difficulties. People who have an understanding of dementia know how to assist seniors facing these challenges.

Essential Questions and Considerations

There may not be a single time when you recognize the senior you love requires more thorough care. You may also be concerned that making the transition too soon will put your loved one in surroundings that are too restrictive or stressful. How do you make the decision? Think about some of the following:

If your loved one is living in assisted living already, talk with the people who interact with them on a daily basis. Inquire about your loved one’s behavior. Has it changed? Is he or she still taking part in activities? Or is confusion starting to overwhelm your loved one?

Is your loved one happy? If your loved one is showing signs of depression, becomes isolated, or has stopped making friends, he or she may need additional support of memory care.

Does your loved one’s dementia include symptoms other than their memory loss? If your loved one has started having trouble making decisions, behaving appropriately, or talking with others, a memory care community can certainly help.

Memory Care: A Way to Enjoy Your Relationship

The decision to transition to memory care comes down to one major concern: whether your loved one is content and leading the life they have earned. If your relationship is strained or they are lonely, they may need additional care.

Choosing the right memory care community will not cure your loved one’s dementia. But it can assist your loved one in having a more normal life. Memory care communities support people with dementia by providing assistance with the skills dementia takes away from them. This can make life better for everyone, specifically caregivers. If you’re feeling a little stressed and overwhelmed, know that memory care may be the answer.

Find Quality Assisted Living  And Memory Care With SLS Communities

If you’re looking for the very best assisted living, memory care, and senior living services in Phoenix; SLS Communities can help!  We have 5 locations in the Phoenix Valley that seniors and their families can choose from. With great amenities such as greatly manicured landscaping, pools, movie rooms, on-site salons, and much more SLS delivers today’s seniors the very best retirement care services in Phoenix, Arizona.

Written by webtechs

Questions For Assisted Living Interviews

The choices seem endless when it comes to assisted living communities. There are many different communities out there so asking questions is important. Keep these things in mind when you are looking for assisted living options for a member of your family.

Questions To Ask About Care

The level of support is the most vital consideration to think about. Yout loved one’s needs and wants need to be taken care of so you have to find a community where the services and amenities meet your requirements. Here are some things to ask:

  • In the monthly agreement what services are included?
  • Are services available a la carte?
  • If comprehensive care options if needed, can my loved one transition?
  • What is the ratio of residents to staff?
  • How do your competitor’s community care services differ from yours?

Questions To Ask About The Specific Community

Your loved one needs to feel at home in their new community, where they can meet new friends and enjoy themselves as well as having a variety of excursions and activities available such as religious practices, exercise facilities, and hair salons. Think about these questions:

  • How are activities chosen for residents, what are the activities and what is the level of participation?
  • Is their menu flexibility options available in the dining experience?
  • What is the social experience like? Do residents spend the majority of their time in their rooms or in common areas?

Questions To Ask About Administration And Costs

You need to know what the cost is and what it includes regarding a senior living community before you commit to it, Examples of things you need to know include:

  • That is included in the monthly fee?
  • How and where does the funding come from for the community?
  • What would the circumstances be to warrant an increase in costs?
  • What are the emergency handling procedures?

It is important to ask the right questions but don’t discount intuition. How does the community make you feel? Are the staff welcoming and warm? Are the residents well taken care of? Is the community safe and clean?

It is a big decision to choose the correct living community for seniors = be prepared with talking points and questions so you can make the best choice possible.

More Articles About Senior Living

Find Quality Assisted Living Care With SLS Communities

If you’re looking for the very best assisted living in Phoenix; SLS Communities can help!  We have 5 locations in the Phoenix Valley that seniors and their families can choose from. With great amenities such as meticulously manicured landscaping, pools, theater rooms, on-site salons, and much more SLS delivers seniors the very best assisted living care services in Phoenix, Arizona.

Check out our locations below

For more information about assisted living and senior living services please call 480-348-0300.

Written by webtechs

Retirement Wishes for a Boss

Are you searching for retirement quotes for a boss? This post should help.

1. As you are retiring from work dear boss, I wish you a happy life full of fun and excitement.
2. Retirement is where you paint your dreams and spend time with your family. I wish you a very happy retirement.
3. I wish I can also retire now so that I don’t have to call anyone boss. Also, congratulations, Boss! Enjoy your retirement.
4. After climbing so many mountains in over the years, you can now belatedly enjoy the view!
5. No more waking up to alarms. No more rush hour and daily commutes. Most importantly, no more stress from us at the office! Congrats boss!
6. You were an awesome team player, even harder worker, and an exemplary boss. Enjoy retirement.
7. It’s time for you to take it easy after all these years of hard work. Enjoy your next adventure boss.
8. I wish you a stress-free and fun retirement. We’re really going to miss your guidance at work. Congrats boss.
9. Congratulations on retiring in such a refined manner, dear boss. The most thrilling time of your life has just begun!
10. We will miss your wisdom and experience as a boss but most of all, we will miss the inspiration you have been to us. Enjoy your retirement.
11. Now you will finally have time to find that special fishing spot or to sleep through an afternoon football game on TV. It couldn’t happen to a nicer boss.
12. Some people retire too early and lament wasting their lives. Some people retire too late and hated overworking. But your timing is just perfect, enjoy your retirement boss.
13. The feeling of retiring is like turning into a kid, just waiting to go home to open that box of candies you stashed away to relish on a special day. Happy retirement dear leader.
14. We’ll miss you as our boss, but we’ll miss you more as our mentor, friend, and colleague. We wish you a happy retirement.
15. Now you can finally say, “Let the relaxation, weekend retreats, and outlandish vacations begin!” Congratulations on your retirement!
16. Just think about it. Retirement signifies long, seven-day weekends! Lucky you! Congratulations!
17. Do you think you could possibly give me a raise on your way out the door? Congratulations on your retirement.
18. We wish you the best as you close this chapter and start a new one. Enjoy retirement boss!
19. Great job! You have run a good race. Now it is time to take in the rewards of all your labor. Congrats dear leader.
20. You have a fantastic way of bringing out the best in us. I’m so glad to have been under your leadership. Enjoy your Retirement.
21. Let down your hair. Kick off your socks. Garner the rewards of a life of hard labor. Your retirement is your time to flourish.
22. Thank you for your years of guidance and commitment to the job. It has been a pleasure working with such a wonderful boss.
23. Work just won’t be the same without you, boss. I sure hope you enjoy the years ahead of you. Happy Retirement!
24. Congratulations on retiring. We wish you tons of happiness and excitement in your years ahead.
25. Congratulations! You’ve been promoted, unfortunately you’re no longer the boss, your wife is. Happy retirement.
26. It’s okay to be unhappy about retiring, but it is a lot better to be happier about the awesome days ahead. Congratulations!
27. Happy Retirement! If you get bored, just give me a call. I’ll be more than happy to share some work with you!
28. Don’t forget about us when you’re enjoying your retirement. Come to visit, keep in touch and boss us around for old time sake.
29. Enjoy your new position as a retiree! It’s the last time you’ll ever need to start a new job. Happy retirement boss!
30. Retirement is like turning eighteen – you can’t figure out what to do with the rest of your life.

Read short retirement quotes at Chaparral Winds Retirement Community

68 Retirement Wishes For A Boss – Canyon Winds Retirement

Retirement Wishes – Quotes for Boss, Friend, Family Member

What to Write in a Retirement Card Continued 

Retirement Wishes – 100 Quotes Continued

Written by webtechs

Funny Retirement Wishes For Coworkers & Colleagues

If you are searching for “funny retirement wishes”, “retirement quotes for coworkers”, “funny retirement quotes” or “retirement wishes for colleague” while wondering what to write in a retirement card, this post should help!


The best part about is that they will be relatable to pretty much everybody including educators, teachers, specialists, engineers, IT folks, attendants, bookkeepers, business administrators or even the agreeable oldie working at the area grocery store. Read them below and consider how you can inject cleverness in your welcome.

Regardless of whether it is for your associates, managers, father, mother, companions or somebody in the family – ensure your witty lines put a grin on the new retiree’s face. Keep in mind to share your words on Facebook and Pinterest.

Funny Retirement Wishes

The best funny retirement wishes for coworkers and colleagues include:

  1. The days of 9-5 are past! happy days are here at last!
  2. After retirement, a 30 minute walk is the best thing to do for your ailments!
  3. All those years of working and now you can get back to acting like a child again!
  4. The job you waited for for 50 years! Retirement!
  5. Retirement! it’s like sleeping while you are awake. Well done!
  6. You can now not worry about doing anything wrong nor getting caught at it!
  7. What do you call a person who is always happy each and every Monday? Retired!
  8. Worked all me life, paid me due’s, now I will do, whatever I choose!
  9. Time to stop working for that living and working at living!
  10. You have finally “Got a Life!”
  11. Retirement! Where every day is Saturday!
  12. I don’t have to do it, I don’t want to do it and you can’t make me do it I’m retired!
  13. You’re retired, not expired!
  14. Enjoy the challenge of spending time without spending money!
  15. Retired! Say Hi to your pension and goodbye to the tension!
  16. You’re retied! We know your young at heart and slightly older in other places!
  17. Retired! No Alarm Clock! No problem!
  18. Are you going to be a secret agent? Licenced to chill?
  19. Now you’re retired, you know everything and have plenty of time to tell everyone about it!
  20. The joy of retirement is having nothing to do all day!
  21. Remember, with retirement, you can wake up in the morning with zero to do and go to bed having done a mere half of it!
  22. Retirement: It takes all the meaning out of weekends!
  23. Now you are retired, you realize you will never have another day off, right?
  24. Now you are retired, you can get up at 6 am and drive around slowly delaying people everywhere!
  25. Time to maximize that senior discount!
  26. No better feeling than going to bed with no alarm set for tomorrow!
  27. Retirement! The money is not as good but the hours are!
  28. Behind every retired man is a wife just wishing he would go back to work!
  29. Retirement: Half the money but now you get twice the husband!
  30. I’m retired! You’re not! Have fun at work tomorrow!
  31. You found your true calling, Retirement!
  32. On the retirement clock it’s always five O’clock
  33. Keep calm and enjoy retirement!
  34. When people ask you what you are doing tomorrow, do you even care what day of the week it is? Happy Retirement!
  35. Retired! I now smile all the time because I can’t hear a word you are saying!
  36. Now you are retired, how are the new bosses, your grand kids?
  37. You are going to be the coworker I miss the most when emailing you from a few feet away!
  38. Retirement! Time to start giving advice to others you never followed!
  39. Fragile bones and a weak bladder. You still looking forward to your retirement? Congratulations!
  40. I bet you never thought how important medical insurance was until you retired!
  41. You say retirement is an adventure? IS climbing out of bed, climbing atop couches and diving into take out food fun?
  42. After retirement the body grows older, the heart grows fonder and the mind becomes younger. All the best at trying to handle an old body with a young mind and fond heart!
  43. Hey, now you are retired you can’t afford to do all the things you wanted too, anyway! Happy Retirement!
  44. I am thankful retirement is not optional otherwise I would be stuck working with you, forever! Happy Retirement!
  45. Off to retirement? Say Hi to your two new best friends, bed and couch!
  46. Retirement, it is like a party with no drinking, no hook-up’s and you fall asleep. In other words, boring! Congratulations!
  47. Your retirement will be like a vacation, except you are now too old to do the fun stuff! Congrats!
  48. Most people spend their whole lives planning their retirement but when they actually retire, they don’t know what to do. Don’t let this happen to you.
  49. Remember to tire yourself out with gardening grand kids and chores!
  50. Hey with all your college degrees, you now get to be a Master of doing nothing! Well done!
  51. C’mon! We all know retirement is the companies way of saying you are getting too old to work!
  52. Doing the things you wanted to do is not what retirement is for. It is remembering what you had to do. Good luck, pensioner!
  53. Retirement is like being on the edge of a cliff. Just know your next step is a downward plunge! Good luck!
  54. The company retiring you says they have found more energetic, youthful and talented staff than you! Happy Retirement!
  55. For someone as idle as you, retirement will not matter. You will just be lazy on an official basis!
  56. Hey, now you are retired, enjoy the next project: Doing nothing all day!
  57. No more boss shouting at you, just your wife shouting at you! Enjoy retirement!
  58. It doesn’t matter if you are grumpy when you retire, people just expect it anyway.
  59. The first day you do not change your underwear, consider yourself officially retired!
  60. Now you have reached retirement, enjoy this new turning point as you realize how messed up your priorities were!
  61. It’s time to spend away your life savings! Enjoy retirement.
  62. Retirement is said to be the slow and painful lead up to the sunset years of your life. Have fun old timer.
  63. Retirement, the bubble that bursts when you thought you were at the zenith of your career. Good luck, buddy!
  64. Retirement is the company way of saying they have no more use for an old and lazy bum like you. Goodbye!
  65. Retirement is life’s way of saying you are too weak and feeble to work any longer! Congratulations!
  66. You know, being retired is the only time in life you do not really mind not having a holiday!
  67. Every day of your retired life should be like a Friday. Shame you will feel like it is Monday, every day. Good luck!
  68. Congrats on retiring. Have fun watching your life’s savings dwindle!
  69. Retirement is great if you have much to live for and much to live on.
  70. When your colleagues give you a watch you know time is no longer of importance. Happy retirement!
  71. When you retire, it’s going to be tough to tell the difference!
  72. Is mandatory retirement the same as compulsive poverty?
  73. Retirement, when time is no longer money.
  74. The way some people work you wonder if they will achieve anything when they retire!
  75. Retirement, maybe time for your wife to get a stomach ulcer with you around all the time?
  76. Now you are retired, you can be tired, yesterday, today and tomorrow.
  77. Now you are retired you can burn all your boxes. Saves money and gets rid of your past, too!
  78. Having worked all of your life, retirement should be easy!
  79. You know before you retired, you should have taken a week off and watched daytime TV every day!
  80. Now you are retired you will actually have time to read about problems with retirement!
  81. We know you retired for health reasons. You were sick of them, they were sick of you!
  82. Now you are retired you have nothing to do and no way to tell if you have done it!
  83. Now you are retired, can you still remember the things you wanted to do?
  84. Now your wife realizes you never gave your secretary enough sympathy during the daytime either!
  85. Drinking coffee on your own time is the one downside of retirement! Enjoy!
  86. Enjoy every retirement day as if it was your last day; one day you will be right about it.
  87. Now your retired, will your bedtime be after you have fallen asleep on the couch for three hours? Enjoy!
  88. The older you get the less peer pressure you will have. Well Done!
  89. Enjoy retirement and knowing you are over the hill when your back goes out more frequently than you do!
  90. On the bright side of being retired, kidnappers are less interested in you. Enjoy retirement!
  91. Happy Retirement. Go play golf and make your wife think you are still having fun!
  92. Enjoy your retirement! Don’t spend all your money just in case you don’t die!
  93. Is your happy retirement now a full time job for your wife?
  94. Enjoy and be proud of being gainfully unemployed Happy Retirement!
  95. Hey now you are retired, you don’t have to wear pants!
  96. Now I am retired I am not going to stop laughing because I am old, because you grow old when you do stop laughing!
  97. Working people have a lot of bad habits., but the worst of these is work. Congrats on your retirement!
  98. You are retiring from work ,not from life. Enjoy, my friend!
  99. Never act your age in retirement and have lots of fun!
  100. You don’t have to remember what you got up for anymore! Have fun in retirement!

 

We hope you enjoyed reading our Funny Retirement Quotes, stay tuned for more from SLS Communities. Read 100 Retirement Wishes Here.

Independent Living Retirement Communities

If you or someone you know is looking for the best location to retire, SLS Communities can help! We proudly operate 4 retirement communities in the state of Arizona.  With apartment style living our independent living residents love the freedom of living life to the fullest while our staff takes care of the chores and details.  Live your life to the fullest by choosing to take a tour and see why so many seniors love living with SLS Communities in Mesa, Youngtown, Sedona, and Surprise, Arizona.

Call 480-348-0300 or Contact Us

To Learn More

Written by webtechs

Retirement Quotes, Wishes, Sayings

If you looking for the right words, phrases or sayings to use or to write in a card for someone’s retirement, we can help! We have scoured the internet to find the best wishes appropriate for retirement. So, here they are, the top sayings, quotes and wishes you can say or write in a retirement card!

  1. Happy Retirement! You’ll never have to ask for a day off ever again!
  2. Wishing you the very best in your new happy retired life!
  3. You’re now your own boss! Enjoy this chapter in your life. Have an amazing retirement.
  4. The start of a new chapter. Enjoy your newly found freedom!
  5. It makes my heart melt when someone as wonderful as you retires! Well done and enjoy all those relaxing years ahead!
  6. Hey it’s time to tee it up on that retirement golf trip you are always talking about!
  7. Thank you for your years of dedication and work to our team. We will never forget you for your accomplishments and congratulations on your retirement!
  8. (insert name) you know, retiring means almost no work and little responsibility. If you need things to do my garage can use a clean up, ha ha! Congratulations!
  9. it is time to do all the things you love. Happy Retirement!
  10. What are you going to do with your free time now you are retired? I can fill your Tuesday’s with gossip and coffee. What do you say?
  11. You have earned your retirement. I hope it is both relaxing and wonderful!
  12. I am so happy to see you reach your retirement. New beginnings for you, seek it out and enjoy!
  13. You deserve it as you’ve worked every day of your life for this! Have a great retirement!
  14. You have been great to work with and I will never forget all you taught me along the way. You are a great role model! Have an awesome retiree experience!
  15.  Enjoy your retirement and thank you for being so inspiring and dedicated!
  16. Have a great retirement! You have made us all better!
  17. Thank you for helping us to achieve so much and congrats on your retirement!
  18. You get to spend every day with your partner. I bet you can’t wait to start gardening again! Happy Retirement!
  19. You have done so many great things for us. Enjoy the fruits of your hard labor!
  20. Embrace your new goals. Retirement is here! Let’s go!
  21. Leave the past behind and love the years ahead! Happy Retirement!
  22. Didn’t you only just start yesterday? Happy Retirement, friend!
  23. early retirement, well done! Enjoy the wonderful opportunities coming your way!
  24. You always inspired us and will not be forgotten after you retire!
  25. Thanks for always challenging us to be our best. Have a great retirement with many years of happiness to come!
  26. You are a true friend! You have shown me, you can love the people you work with. Happy Retirement!
  27. You are really a unique person and will be much missed. Enjoy your retirement!
  28. Don’t forget to send us a postcard from your next trip overseas! Enjoy your retirement!
  29. Great to know you are heading to a warmer climate. Congrats!
  30. We love to see you walk….into retirement, lol! Congratulations, well deserved!
  31. Well done from the whole team. You will be hard to replace!
  32. No more Mondays…no more pointless meetings…enjoy your freedom!
  33. Your hard work earned you your retirement, great job!
  34. Retirement is the start of a new story. Make it a good one!
  35. A retirement your deserve…we are so happy for you!
  36. I hope your retirement is a dream come true for you!
  37. Now the boss is off your back, your free to do whatever you want, whenever you like, as long as your wife agrees! Happy retirement!
  38. I never thought this day would come, even though you have been counting it down in front of us for a month! Enjoy, my friend, You will be missed!
  39. You have worked very hard for your family and deserve a break. Congrats!
  40. Let’s make sure your retirement is even more fulfilling than your career!
  41. Retirement…relaxation, enjoyment, fun, freedom! Enjoy it!
  42. You will be missed around here. Make your retirement fun!
  43. Your wife has a new full time assistant. Congrats on the job promo!
  44. It’s is like an extended vacation…only with no paid time off! We will miss you!
  45. Every day is now your weekend, what fun!
  46. You are going to get into all kinds of things, have fun!
  47. Enjoy luxury and spend all the kids inheritances! Best wishes!
  48. Congratulations! Wishing you the very best in health, wealth and happiness!
  49. You can now start doing all the fantastic stuff you have always wanted to do!
  50. Enjoy working for your new boss, your wife! Good luck my friend!
  51. Have a fruitful and joyful retirement!
  52. Retirement, fun times, enjoy!
  53. Your next phase a life awaits, go after it!
  54. We hope you enjoy a long and happy retirement!
  55. May your retirement years bring you great joy and happiness!
  56. May your retirement bring you everything you want it to be!
  57. The fun times are only just beginning! Well done, you have reached your retirement goal!
  58. Health and happiness in your retirement!
  59. It’s true…you never really get a day off when you are retired!
  60. Enjoy all the coffee you like now you are on the world’s longest coffee break, retirement!
  61. Time to do all the things that make you truly happy!
  62. The finer things in life await in your happy retirement!
  63. Best wishes. Life begins at retirement!
  64. Congrats on starting your last new job!
  65. Boy, am I jealous! Enjoy a great retirement!
  66. No-one deserves this retirement more than you but we are still going to miss you!
  67. I hear your wife has lots of work for you to do and you call it retirement!?
  68. Time for a well earned break after all those years of work!
  69. Do not forget to stop by the office every once in a while for a chat!
  70. Have a great new journey! We will miss your knowledge, dedication and experience.
  71. You have taught us all so much, we will miss your face in the office!
  72. Enjoy your new freedom, born from all your hard work here!
  73. You have earned your retirement. Enjoy, my friend!
  74. Time for an active and pleasurable retirement!
  75. Have fun spending the government money!
  76. The best part of your life is awaiting!
  77. I will never forget you. have an awesome retirement!
  78. Joy and happiness await in your retirement!
  79. The road ahead has destination retirement ahead of it!
  80. You have been one of the greatest bosses ever! Please love your retirement!
Written by webtechs

Best Retirement Communities In Arizona 2018-2019

If you are searching for the best retirement communities in Arizona for 2018-2019, this guide should help! Furthermore, SLS Communities has great retirement locations in many exciting areas of Arizona. Thousands of retirees flock to Arizona each year to enjoy the moderate climate, escape the snow, and enjoy a state that has dedicated communities, towns, and cities for retirement age Americans.

Read more about the top retirement communities in Arizona and some of the best cities to retire in.

  1. Ventana Winds Retirement Community

Ventana Winds is located in Youngtown, Arizona and offers two options for retired living communities, Assisted Living and Memory Care.  There are 2 well manicured courtyards with walkways that wind through the lush landscaping and gardening.

Ventana Winds Living Quarters & Amenities

Living Quarters: Ventana Winds has 2 large apartment style floor plans outfitted with everything you need.

Living Quarter Amenities: Each apartment has a large kitchenette, microwave, refrigerator, individual air & heat, ceiling fans, bay windows, window treatments, private balcony or patio, large floor plans and walk in closets.

Community Amenities: The facility boasts large grounds, an activity room, TV room, Library, Billiards, resort style dining, sparkling pool, and offers transportation to residents.

Ventana Winds Retirement Living Options

Ventana Winds has 2 retirement options to choose from including Assisted Living and Memory Care.

About Youngtown Arizona

Youngtown, Arizona is one of the oldest retirement communities in Arizona and the nation as a whole.  While it started as an age restricted retirement community that rule was lifted in 1999.  Since then the demographic makeup of the population has diversified making it a great place to live at any age.  The town sits between Grand Avenue and Olive Avenue on the south side.  Youngtown is located near many wonderful amenities and is only about a half hour away from downtown Phoenix.  This makes getting to cultural events quick and easy.  The 101 or 303 freeways make it easy to get to all of the concerts, sporting events, shopping, dining, recreation and entertainment you want.

  1. Sedona Winds Retirement Community

Sedona Winds located in Sedona, Arizona offers all 3 types of retirement care to cover the particular needs of each resident.  They offer Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care.  This means that no matter what the needs of a resident are services can be tailored to meet the needs of each person and provide them the independence they want.

Sedona Winds Living Quarters & Amenities

Sedona Winds Retirement Community, located in Sedona, Arizona, offers all 3 types of retirement care to cover the particular needs of each resident.  They offer Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care.  This means that no matter what the needs of a resident are services can be tailored to meet the needs of each person and provide them the independence they want.

Living Quarters: Sedona Winds offers varied floor plans for care that include apartment style living and large floor plans.

Living Quarter Amenities: The living quarters are appointed with large kitchenettes, refrigerators, microwaves, ceiling fans, individual AC & heat, bay windows, window treatments, walk in closets, and a private patio or balcony.

Community Amenities: The community amenities include transportation to appointments and all of the exciting activities in the area, a sparking pool

Sedona Winds Retirement Living Options

Sedona Winds has 3 retirement options to choose from including Assisted Living, Independent Living and Memory Care.

About Sedona Arizona

Sedona, Arizona is one of America and Arizona’s well known jewels for tourists and features lots of great sights and activities for people of all ages.  The area features iron rich landscapes that have given way to that red rock look that the southwest is associated with.  Sedona has been featured in many westerns including Jimmy Stewart’s “Broken Arrow”.  Sunrises and sunsets over the mountains and towers of red rock sandstone offer residents and visitors beautiful displays.  The stunning natural beauty of  the area paired with the mountains and moderate climate have made Sedona one of the Country’s most popular retirement options.  With a wide variety of activities, wonderful views, vibrant arts and music scene Sedona is consistently in the top 20 retirement destinations in the United States.

We have discovered the top locations to just sit back and get the enjoyment of retirement within the Copper State.

When those who live outside of Arizona, the first things that likely come to mind is the Wild West, the summer heat, and of course the Grand Canyon. However, the state has so much more to offer, especially when talking about retirees and having a great place to call home.

  1. Chaparral Winds Retirement Community

Chaparral Winds is known as one the best retirement communities in Surprise Arizona that offers Independent Living, Assisted Living,  & Memory Care services. Contact Chaparral Winds Retirement Community today at (623) 544-4777! Chaparral Winds is located on the border of Surprise and Sun City, Arizona. Their community offers many retirement living options to meet all of your needs. Chaparral Winds is conveniently located next to anything one might need including great shopping, terrific restaurants, gold courses, cultural centers, medical offices and sports arenas. They have a large 12 acre campus that accommodates several pools, courtyards, putting greens and more.

Chaparral Winds Living Options & Amenities

Retirement Living Options:

Chaparral Winds offers 7 different floor plans for Independent living, 3 different floor plans for assisted living and 2 different floor plans for Memory. Studio, 1 and 2 bedroom apartments are available.

Retirement Community Amenities:

  • Gated Entry. To keep residents safe and secure
  • Licensed & Certified Caregivers. 24/7 licensed and certified caregivers on staff
  • Chef Prepared Meals. 3 meals per day prepared by an in-house chef
  • Entertainment. Indoor & Outdoor entertaining areas
  • Large Casita Floor Plans. 1425-1550 sq ft floor plans
  • Live Entertainment. Live entertainment on-site several times per month
  • Housekeeping. Housekeeping many times a month
  • All Utilities Includes. All utilities included including cable TV
  • Activities, Arts & Crafts. A rich program full of activities

Chaparral Winds Retirement Living Options

Chaparral Winds has 3 retirement options to choose from including Assisted Living, Independent Living and Memory Care.

  1. Desert Winds Retirement Community

Desert Winds is one of the best retirement communities in Peoria, Arizona that offers Pathway Assisted Living, Assisted Living & Memory Care services. Contact Desert Winds today at (623) 362-1200! Desert Winds is located next to the border of Peoria & Sun City, Arizona. They are located near tons of tasty restaurants, great shopping locations, gold courses, cultural centers, sports arenas, medical offices and more.

Desert Winds Living Options & Amenities

Retirement Living Options:

Desert Winds offers 4 different floor plans for Independent living, 3 Independent Casita floor plans, 3 different floor plans for assisted living and Memory care apartments are available.

Retirement Community Amenities:

  • Gated Entry. To keep residents safe and secure
  • 24 Hour Caregivers. 24/7 licensed and certified caregivers on staff
  • Resort Style Dining. Meals are prepared by an in-house chef
  • Entertainment. Indoor & Outdoor entertaining areas
  • Onsite Beauty/Barber. Full service hair salon/barber on-site
  • Exercise & Fitness. Fitness facility on-site
  • Housekeeping. Housekeeping 2 times per month
  • All Utilities Includes. All utilities included including cable TV
  • Activities, Arts & Crafts. A rich program calendar full of activities

Desert Winds Retirement Living Options

Desert Winds has 3 retirement options to choose from including Assisted Living, Independent Living and Memory Care.

  1. Canyon Winds – Best Luxury Retirement Community

Canyon Winds is the best luxury retirement community in MesaArizona that offers Independent Living, Assisted Living & Memory Care services. Contact Canyon Winds Retirement Community Today at 480-948-0600!

Canyon Winds Living Options & Amenities

Retirement Living Options:

Canyon Winds offers large 1 & 2 bedroom Assisted Living, Independent Living & Memory Care apartments.

Retirement Community Amenities:

  • Licensed & Certified Staff. 24/7 licensed and certified staff
  • Delicious Meals. 3 meals per day prepared by chef
  • Entertainment. Indoor & Outdoor entertaining areas
  • Onsite Salon. Full service hair salon on-site
  • Theater Room. Watch movies in a state-of-the-art theater room
  • Live Entertainment. Live entertainment on-site several times per month
  • Spacious Activity Room. Play bingo, bridge, bunco and more in a spacious activity room
  • Gym & Pool. Holds daily exercise classes in the gym and swimming pool w/ hot tub
  • Arts & Crafts. Find interest groups, crafting classes and more

Next up, see the best cities/places to retire in Arizona.

Canyon Winds Retirement Living Options

Canyon Winds has 3 retirement options to choose from including Assisted Living, Independent Living and Memory Care.

SLS Retirement Communities

We have 4 locations open and another location under construction in the state of Arizona which offer a variety of services and living arrangements. From independent living to fully assisted living we compliment our services with highly sought after amenities including memory care.  See below for the locations we currently have available.

Written by webtechs

Benefits Of Retiring In Arizona

There is a good reason why for years now Arizona has been one of the most popular retirement spots. In fact, developed more than fifty years ago was the very first of its kind in the United States, an Active Adult Community which is located in Sun City, Arizona. It is more than obvious why people are choosing Arizona for their retirement years. It’s not just for all the days of abundant sun it offers, or all the golf courses.  Read about some of the benefits of retiring in Arizona discover how it could be the right place for you.

One of the main reasons for choosing Arizona to retire in would be for the benefits of not being taxed on your Social Security checks by the state. Those who live on a fixed income understands the importance of making it go as far as they can, just as they know it is always better when taxes are in their favor. Arizona is wonderful for retiree’s, it is a tax friendly state and they are not going to tax your Social Security Benefits, which is significant these days. Approximately half of the states within the United States do tax your Social Security Benefits.

1. Breathtaking National & State Parks

As the home of the Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona welcomes the world to one of the natural wonders.  Living in Arizona puts this amazing sight only hours away or closer depending on where you decide to live in Arizona.

Red Rock State Park which is near Sedona, AZ is a favorite for residents of the state and more.  It’s a mecca for riding horses, hiking, and riding bicycles.  Surrounded by incredible red rock formations it’s chalked full of history and beautiful sights.

Something not many know is that the Original London Bridge, direct from London, England was moved to Lake Havasu City, Arizona. Now how neat is that?

2. Inexhaustible Recreational Opportunities

Arizona has many outdoor activities to offer, such as hang gliding across the desert, skiing is available in Flagstaff, enjoyment of fishing up and down the Colorado River, and white water rafting.

You can have the great outdoors right in your backyard. With an abundance of wildlife, you will be able to view snakes, coyotes, javelinas (which is similar to a furry pig), roadrunners, and bobcats.

3. Championship Golf Courses

If you love to golf, you will love Arizona.  As one of the world’s premier golf destinations there are over 300 golf courses in the state.  With both target courses and traditional links the state is studded with courses in attractive locations such as Scottsdale, Phoenix, Tucson, Sedona, and many more.

As the epicenter of desert golf, Arizona’s Grand Canyon consists of more than seventy public golf courses and all of them are highly ranked, attracting golf enthusiasts by the millions.  

4. Excellent Equestrian Events

Back in 1955 is when Scottsdale began their Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, which features more than 2,000 of the most beautiful Arabian horses in the world. Hundreds of thousands of people come from all around world to watch owners, breeders, and trainers that come from around the globe to compete. Where you can visit 300 different vendors and booths that are showcasing foods, having demonstrations, and various seminars.

The oldest rodeo in the world since 1888 is located in Prescott, Arizona. For those who would like to give bull riding a go or would enjoy just watching others at it.

5. Lifestyle & Affordable Housing

There is a city to fit style in Arizona. There’s Phoenix, which highly livable and yet stays affordable city; Sedona, is considered to be your spiritual haven, with a visual miracle; Flagstaff, located at a higher elevation the rest of the state, making it cooler, the scenery is so beautiful that it attracts those outdoor enthusiasts, and it offers more of a liberal contingency, and it is also located close enough to Phoenix for those who would like to get away to a big city now and then.  

Housing in Arizona is affordable. The median value of a home in Arizona, according to the most up to date data, is only a little more than $178,000.00, with the median or rentals being $1,050.00. Also, there is the extra benefit of lower heating cost. Keep in mind that it is a lot cheaper to keep a house cooled down than it is to heat one.

This one’s a winner! Arizona does not tax your Social Security Benefits, and there will not be any inheritance tax, estate tax, or gift taxes.

6. Incredible Sunny Weather

Arizona offers a lot of sunshine and terrific weather. In the winter the temperatures are around the same temperatures the southeast has in the summer months, only without the humidity. Arizona’s average rainfall ranges from under three inches (in deserts) and in the mountains to over thirty inches yearly. Where you can find both dry and sunny days, with the nights generally being cooler. The major cities in Arizona will have more than two-hundred and fifty days of sunshine throughout the year. Flagstaff is one of the towns which offer cooler weather, for those who prefer change-ups in their weather.

The majority of Arizona will not have any snow for you to have to shovel.

Arizona is the place to be if you are one of the millions who are tormented by allergies. This is due to the dry climate and air it can offer what the rest of the country cannot, which is allergy relief.

7. Delicious Restaurants & Festivals

Created in Tucson, Arizona is the ‘Sonoran Hot Dog’, which is considered to be a special culinary treat and it is unique in Arizona. This treat is basically a hot dog that is wrapped up with bacon and then serve on a toasty like white bun. It is then layered with pinto beans, onions, mustard, mayo, chopped tomatoes, and jalapenos.

One of the United States longest running culinary festivals is the Scottsdale Culinary Festival and it attracts more than thirty-five thousand visitors every year. This six-day festival showcases restaurants, micro brews, gourmet foods, celebrity chefs, and fine wines.

One of the top events in Arizona is the Arizona State Fair, attracting more than a million people to the state of Arizona to be at the concerts, and watch the races, enjoy rodeos, view the livestock, and to checkout numerous food booths.

Arizona has many unique foods to offer, such as mesquite honey, prickly pear margaritas, and cactus jelly. The majority of Arizona will not consist of shoveling snow.

Tucson, Arizona has something to offer those wanting to go back in time, to their roots in the 1960’s, which is the Tucson Folk festival. This festival attracts over ten-thousand lovers of folk music and it happens to be one of the top United States folk festivals, it offers over twenty hours of free live music featuring bluegrass, old country, western, and Irish music.

8. Music & Cultural Events

More than twenty Native American tribes in Arizona are represented, and Arizona represents the most percentage in the United States to have land designated to the Indians, and is referred to as the Indian Lands.

Phoenix, Arizona is the home of rock star ‘Alice Cooper’.

These are just some of the reasons people love retiring in Arizona.  Share with us the reasons you’ve loved visiting Arizona or why you love living in the state!  If your considering retiring in Arizona don’t forget to check out the senior living services we provide.  In addition to assisted living we offer independent living, memory care, and home care services in the state of Arizona.  All of our service are rendered by the highest trained and skilled senior care providers whether at one of our locations or in senior’s own homes.

Written by webtechs

What is Independent Living?

Independent living is living arrangements in communities for individuals or couples who are 55 and older.  The communities are characterized by lots of activities and apartment style living.  Each unit is typically a studio, single, or two bedroom floorplan and care consists of meal preparation, and resort style living.  This gives our residents the comfortable active lifestyle they want with plenty of opportunities to be social and stay connected.

After retirement; adventure awaits.  SLS Communities Independent Living offers seniors a place to live where the details are taken care of for them.  We take care of the cooking, cleaning, and laundry while our residents go out and enjoy life!  Our communities feature fitness centers, theater rooms, beauty salons, pools, spas, and chef prepared meals served in our restaurant style dining rooms.

Exactly what does independent living consist of?

Independent living is nothing more than a housing arrangement for seniors who have reached the age of 55 and up. However, there are a few exceptions to this. Housing for seniors vary in types, such as apartment living to free-standing homes, including retirement communities. Independent living housing has a friendly atmosphere, allow seniors get around with ease, are more compact, and any maintenance and/or groundwork is taken care of.

Nearly all communities for living independently offer their residents various programs and activities, amenities, and various other services.  Housing for independent living usually include clubhouse and/or recreational centers allowing seniors a chance to interact with others in the community. Independent living also offers community participation in arts, crafts, gatherings on holidays, educational classes, movie nights, among many other community activities.

The housing for independent living might even offer other facilities like fitness centers, golf courses, swimming pools, interest groups, a variety of clubs, and tennis courts. There are many other services that independent living communities may offer, such as: beauty & barber shops, on-site spas, basic housekeeping, daily meals, and laundry services.

After all, independent living facilities are usually focused on those who have reached the age of 55 and up, created and designed to give an atmosphere of living independent, but with assistance available in areas where it may be needed. Hiring in-home help is an option for those who feel they need it.

Some other housing names for independent living

  • Congregate care
  • Retirement communities
  • 55+ and/or 62+ communities
  • Retirement homes
  • Senior apartments and/or senior housing
  • Active adult communities
  • Continuing Care Retirement Communities

Different types of facilities for independent living and retirement homes

With several different choices in what type of independent living facilities to choose from, such as, separate houses and apartment complexes, it will depend on the cost range and the services one is looking for:

Low-income or subsidized senior housing

The United States offers senior’s subsidized housing complexes that are provided by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), that are for senior’s that are on a low-income budget.

Housing for senior’s, apartments or congregate care

Apartment complexes for senior’s are usually restricted and intended for those who have reached the age of 55 and up. Included in the rent are community services, which generally include things like transportation services, recreational programs, and the serving of meals in the communities dining room.

Retirement homes and retirement communities.

Housing units that are used as retirement communities are usually restricted for seniors 55 and up. Housing units for senior’s may be duplexes, townhouses, condominiums, and even single family homes. Those who make the decision to live in housing units like these may have added fees, depending on other services they would like to be included, other services such as the use of recreational centers, yard work, maintenance, and/or clubhouses.

Continuing Care, Retirement Communities (CCRCs)

Those who anticipate having significant health problems later down the road may wish to consider a CCRC. Facilities for independent living have a wide variety of health care, and many of them will have nursing home care within their community as well. Residence that start feeling as though they could use a little extra help with their regular daily activities can be transferred from the independent living units into the assisted living housing or into the facilities with skilled nursing on hand. CCRC’s benefits the resident by letting them relocate only once, and by letting them continue living in the same community, most importantly, letting them live as independent for a little longer.

How is independent living any different than other senior living?

The difference between independent living and other senior housing has to do with the level at which the resident need assistance. If the residence needs assistance 24 hours per day with activities like eating, bathing, going to the bathroom, getting dressed, or certain medical needs, this might be saying that they are candidates for the assisted living housing.

To learn more, read Senior Housing Options

Independent living, is it right for me?

When seniors have to make a change in their living arrangements it can feel as though their world is caving in on them, thus, as though they were losing their independence. However, independent living is just that! About making it easier to carry on being independent. Acknowledging that one’s limitations are keeping them from living their regular independent life and facing that they could have a quality life with a little assistance will let them have an independent life a bit longer.

Would independent living be right for me?

Find out by answering these four questions:

Am I keeping my home up as good, as I use to or is it getting harder for me to do?   

Keeping a home up and going may be a piece of your pride, but as age sets in it can also be overwhelming, becoming a burden that is dragging you down. Let’s say your home has a yard that is in constant need of attention or those extra rooms that are no longer needed still are in need of cleaning, at least dusting now and then. Maybe there are difficulties in accessing the home due to stairs or steep inclines, such as driveways, keeping you from getting out and/or around as much as you would like, leaving you isolated.

There is even the possibility that the neighborhood safety isn’t as safe as it used to be, preventing you from walking as you once did, or preventing you from getting out at all. Of course, you could eliminate several of these challenges by hiring help, such as home remodeling, even a few of the family members might be willing to help out. In any case, if it is independent living you seeking, without all the stress of up-keep – then what you are needing may be a means to independent living, more time and freedom, with the flexibility to enjoy your senior years.

Have I been connecting with my friends and family as much as I would like too? 

Those that find themselves more and more isolated have a much greater risk of having depression and/or problems with their mental health. This can happen for many different reasons, such as becoming mobile, which is making getting around very difficult and/or not being able to drive as you once were able to do.

Maybe your friends and/or neighbors do not have as much time anymore to come around, or you just don’t feel safe in your own neighborhood anymore. Although being able to chat and send messages using the internet is very helpful, it can never replace actual face-to-face contact with others.

The facilities at an independent living housing unit will give you that network of peers that your social life is has been lacking in, as well as offering structured activities such as arts and crafts, field trips, sport, and many others.

Is getting around getting harder for me?

You’re are now living in a home that is located where driving is more difficult for you to get out and socialize in activities or visiting friends and family, even to do your shopping. If driving is giving you trouble and you now rely on using public transportation or it is hard for family and friends to get to your home. Even having difficulties in getting to those doctor’s appointments.

They even offer on-site amenities, and many will offer options in convenient transportation needed for outside activities.

Is my health declining (and/or my spouses)?

Taking into consideration the condition of your health at this time and understanding what the condition of your health in the future may be like is an important measure that needs to be taken. For instance, the current condition of your health can let you know what you can expect later on, such as a health condition that is expected to get worse and not better with time.

Under these conditions, planning a head might be the wisest thing to do. It’s not just your health to be thinking about however, your spouse will also need to do the same thing, the both of you should plan your future living arrangements together.

Ask yourselves the following questions:

  • Do you (and spouse) still manage to get through your daily living activities, like washing clothes, cooking meals, and taking bathes?
  • Do one or both of you have the ability to manage finances as well as you once did?
  • Are the both of you managing your medications and keeping up with any doctor’s appointments you may have?

Housing for independent living is for those who may need a small amount of assistance with daily living activities. Understanding this will help you in deciding what is best for you.

How to deal with your move to independent living 

Picking-up and moving your home is definitely a major event in one’s life, as well as stressful. Although the advantages of independent living are well known to you, decision making on it can be a hard one to make. There is no doubt, going to be regrets, such as feeling depressed or even sometimes embarrassed that you are no longer as capable as you once were to keep up your own home.

Sometimes many seniors will be looking forward to having the opportunity to be social again and have companionship, which is a part of what independent living has to offer. Regardless, grieving the loss of your long time home and the neighbors you have come to trust is a natural process, and to be expected now and again. You may even have feelings of feeling vulnerable and anxious.

It is a part of the natural process to miss the way it used to be, and though there are sometimes feelings of not being in control anymore, that will pass for you are in fact, in control when you choose independent living facilities. These feelings will also pass as you start feeling more alive with your new living arrangements. It is alright to spend a little of your time to ponder on your thoughts, thinking about the memories you have is a good way to cope with your feelings. Reaching out and talking to a family member or finding a new friend or a staff member in your housing of independent living that you can share how you feel with is also medicine for the soul.

Keep in mind that you are not alone. Nearly everyone at one point or another will need a little assistance with their everyday activities and/or long care services, after reaching the age of 65, this is certainly nothing to feel ashamed of. When one gets older they are naturally going to run into times where there will be adaptions to be made, as well as, to changes and it is significant that one takes time mourn the past, but the past should be something you have as memories, not something one needs to forget.

However, it is time to except the fact that a move may be in store. Almost all of the senior’s that move into housing for independent living find it an exciting and interesting new chapter in their lives, with new experiences and friendships.

Follow these tips for an easier transition to independent living

  • While adjusting to your new living environment you will get to meet your new neighbors, and invited to join in on new activities. In the beginning, this may be a bit stressful. The following are a few things to make the transition a little smoother. You will be able to make your new home comfortable and to fit you by painting it, and hanging all those important photos. Bring your favorite chair with you and whatever else you have that is important to you.
  • Get a head start on things and start packing earlier. Instead of putting things off until the last minute, adding extra stress by having to make decisions quickly on what to keep and what to get rid of.
  • You should research independent living facilities and be absolutely sure to choose one that has everything you’re looking for. Asking questions will help you to know what to expect later.
  • Get out and about meeting new people and joining in on various activities offered. Socializing will make you feel more at home.
  • Don’t make things harder on yourself. Everyone is different and everyone adjusts to changes differently. When you are feeling down about something talk to someone about it.
  • When choosing retirement or independent living, choose according to what you want and what services you feel you will need.

The people in the community

  • Make connections with others in the community, start conversations and visit with them.
  • Are any of the people someone you think you want to get to know more about?
  • Did you find the staff to be friendly?
  • Spend time with the other residents and test out one of their meals.
  • How large was the community? What is its location?
  • The size of a community and what you are comfortable with will depend on what you are looking for.
  • What type of housing will you feel more comfortable with, apartment living or a detached home?
  • Take into consideration the location
  • Accessibility
  • Activities and amenities
  • Help support your loved one’s decision to move
  • Let your loved one’s know how grieved you are of their loss
  • Keep in touch with your loved one
  • Listen to your loved one and help them work things out

Independent Living In Arizona

There comes a time in many people’s lives where having a little extra help around for when you need it, allows for welcomed peace of mind. Peace of mind isn’t just for the residents either, independent living means having trained staff available to help with whatever residents need eases the worry of family and friends. Having comfortable apartment like living combined with highly trained staff and the opportunity to socialize enriches the retirement years for all residents. If the time has come for a change in living arrangements contact SLS Communities about which of their locations would be the best fit for your loved one.  For more information about independent living please call 928-284-1021.

Written by webtechs

What Type Of Doctor Do I See For Memory Loss?

The type of doctor you see for memory loss is usually your general practitioner. Your doctor will ask some questions to evaluate if there is or is not a problem.  It’s helpful for a lot of people to have a friend or family member along to offer insight as an observer.

Examples of questions that may be asked include:

  • When did you start noticing memory loss problems?
  • Have you recently been ill?
  • Have you recently started any new medications?
  • Has there been any major life changes recently?
  • How often and how much of over the counter, dietary supplements, and prescription medications do you use?
  • Do you drink, If so how much and how often?
  • Do you find any task problematic?
  • Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or feel sad?
  • Have you recently injured your head in an accident?

In addition to questions the doctor will likely order tests of your blood and possibly tests that show the condition of your brain.  These can either show or rule out issues that may contribute to memory loss.  In some cases, patients are referred to specialists such as psychiatrists, psychologists, neurologists, or geriatricians.

A Diagnosis Is The Start To Healing

As hard as it is for us to find out that we have any type of health challenge; facing it head on is key.   Whether it’s diabetes or memory loss the sooner we are open to getting tested the sooner we can be treated.  In both cases there are reversible conditions that affect our bodies and minds.  While it’s normal to try to compensate for a lack of memory with post it note to hide memory problems it delays diagnosis and treatment.

Like most things the longer you wait the harder it gets.  The sooner you go and receive testing the more that can be done to reverse or minimize the affects of memory loss.  Some of the benefits to treating memory problems include:

  • Starting memory loss treatments
  • Understand symptoms and learning to manage them
  • Decide on which types of care fit best for the future
  • Choose when home care starts or when to move to assisted living
  • Plan for and handle legal or financial situations

After talking to your doctor about your memory loss he will likely have resources such associations and organizations to help with the symptoms of dementia or memory loss.

Types Of Reversible Memory Loss

There are some fairly common memory loss causes that are reversible.  While a person might exhibit dementia like symptoms, they are not a definitive sign that there is Alzheimer’s.

Some of the reversible causes of memory loss are:

  • Hypothyroidism – When your thyroid isn’t working right it can result in mental cloudiness and forgetting things. It is treatable with inexpensive medications.
  • Alcoholism – While occasional drinking has little affect heavy chronic alcoholism will cause a loss of mental abilities. In addition medications can react to alcohol causing memory loss.
  • Head injuries – If you receive a blow to the head it’s possible to have some memory issues.
  • Medications – There are some medications or combinations of meds that cause memory loss.
  • Emotional disorders – Problems such as anxiety, depression, and stress make it hard to focus and remember.
  • Diseases of the brain – Infections and tumors can also cause symptoms that mirror dementia.

These disorders are reversible and with treatment can restore greater memory function.  Talk with your doctor about these potential conditions to help nail down what’s happening in your life.

Normal Memory Loss vs. Dementia

It’s normal as we age to have some memory loss that doesn’t affect quality of life.  We often can’t remember a name but recall it later.  Or we misplace our keys and find them after some searching.  These are the types of memory challenges most of us face and can be managed with lists and habits such as key hooks.

In contrast dementia includes less manageable memory loss symptoms.  These will include things like using the wrong words for things such as couch and car.  Other symptoms include forgetting common works, asking the same questions over and over, getting lost in familiar places, taking a longer time to follow simple instructions, or changes in behavior and mood without a cause.

Memory Care Communities

We proudly offer Arizona’s best memory care services to provide a safe and comfortable environment to seniors with memory challenges.  To learn more about how you can take advantage of our memory care services in Arizona please give us a call at 480-348-0300.

Written by webtechs

Elderly Home Safety Checklist

Having an elderly home safety checklist is perfect way to assess living spaces for seniors and it can determine what type of potential hazards that there can be. Injuries and falls can happen in any room. The most common places are stairs and bathrooms, but there can be hazards in every room. It is vital that you make a list of all potential safety concerns and then take preventative measures to address them all.

Home Safety Statistics

Based on data from the CPSC, there are 1.5 million seniors that are 65 years of age or older that are treated for injuries related to consumer products each year in an emergency room. Even though injuries around and in the home can happen in various ways, falls are often the biggest cause.

The information below can shed a bit of light on just how prone to injury and falls that a senior can be in their home:

  • 60% of deaths associated to falls happen to those who are 75 years of age or older.
  • Incidence of falls will rise as every decade of living passes.
  • 1 in 3 people who are 65 years of age or older in the U.S. will experience a fall every year.
  • More than 2 million fall injuries every year are a product of flooring materials and floors.
  • Over 8 million emergency room visits are the result of falls, which is the leading cause for the visit.

Elderly Home Safety Checklist

There are categories of items you should check if you’re visiting your parent or other elderly loved one.  This checklist goes over the whole home including fall prevention steps.  Each section deals with different issues or areas of the home.  It is geared to help leave the home much safer for seniors to live.

Preparing for Emergency Situations

If you just wait until there is an emergency, then it will be too late. It’s vital that you prepare in advance and take all the preventative measures needed but also have a plan that is in place if you have to exit the house quickly or if you have to get help.

Fire Safety

Fire safety is going to be a big part for any home safety checklist. Seniors will be at a higher risk than others when it comes to a residential fire. The elderly are actually 3 times more likely to die during a residential fire than someone who is younger. Taking time to have the house assessed is needed to learn smoke alarm needs. Once the assessment has been done, you are going to know where a smoke alarm needs to go and what rooms that you need to place a smoke alarm in. Taking time to educate yourself on fire safety can possibly save your life.

Do you have safe rooms in your home?

A very common misconception is that senior injuries inside of the home are normally related to a fall in the bathroom or on the stairs. Dangers and injuries in the home are not just limited to falling, but it can happen many ways. Home safety can be at risk in almost every room of any house. Any senior safety checklist needs to include every part of the house.

Bathroom Safety

The bathroom is going to be a common area for an injury to happen in the home of a senior. Not only can an injury happen within a shower, but the shower can cause the floor to get wet which creates a dangerous and unsafe environment. These are a few things that need to be tended to within a bathroom:

  • A shower or bath seat needs to be accessible.
  • Outlets should protect from electric shock
  • Ventilation system and a supplemental, safe heat source
  • Door needs to open outwards
  • Lighting needs to be glare free, sufficient and even. The light switch needs to be near the door.
  • Flooring should be matte finished, textured tile, or covered with a low pile commercial carpet.
  • Towel bars need to be installed correctly and sturdy
  • If the shower has doors, they need to be made of plastic or safety glass
  • Shower or tub needs to be equipped with a non-slip surface

Staircase Safety

Descending or climbing the stairs can be dangerous even for a middle aged, healthy adult. It isn’t really hard to understand why many elderlies suffer from an injury because of shoddy, unsafe stairs. The stairs need to be part of a senior home safety checklist. Below are some precautions that can be done to ensure that the stairs are as safe as possible:

  • Handrails: the stairs need to have a sturdy, functional handrail. Circular rails are the best because they are easier to grip completely when compared to other rails.
  • Placement: there are times people are not aware of the stairs in a poorly lit area or in parts of the home where the colors and patterns run into each other.
  • Maintenance: if the tread or carpet is worn, it can be dangerous and cause people to fall. Replace the carpet or worn tread on the stairs right away.
  • Stair lighting: the stairs in your home need to have plenty of lighting around them so that each step can be clearly seen.
  • Stairs need to be clear: this may sound obvious, but there are times that people will leave things on the stairs all the time such as shoes, books and papers.
  • Construction of the stairs: The stairs need to be evenly built. If they are not dimensionally uniform, it can increase the risk of tripping and falling.

Kitchen Safety

When it comes to a safety checklist, your kitchen may be the last place that you think to address. Truth is that most accidents happen in the kitchen, so it is important to check this list when you are taking precautions:

  • Sturdy step stool that has a handrail needs to be on hand for getting to top shelves or high cabinets to get items.
  • All countertop appliances like coffeemakers, toasters, etc. need to be protected by a ground fault circuit interrupter.
  • All appliances that are electrical as well as cords need to be as far from the sink as possible and away from anywhere where there may be water. The cords need to be kept from any surface that may be hot.
  • Never leave the kitchen when you are cooking. Anything that is being cooked on a stove will always need to be supervised.
  • Exhaust and ventilation in the kitchen are important. Without the right ventilation, indoor air pollutants and carbon monoxide can accumulate and make the air unsafe.
  • The stove area needs to be clutter free and clean. Curtains, potholders, towels and grease are examples of stuff that can catch on fire easily.
  • The kitchen needs to have a fire extinguisher that is less than 10 years old and verified as in working order.

Bedroom Safety

Even if safety precautions are taken in the bedroom, it is important that you place it on the safety checklist for the elderly. Accidents and injuries can happen in any room and a bedroom isn’t any different than others. There are steps that you can do to make sure that the bedroom is safe:

  • Hot plates, candles, ash trays, or other fire hazards need to be kept away from bedding, beds, furniture, and curtains.
  • Have a sturdy chair that has arms in the bedroom so that you can sit and dress if needed.
  • Flashlight or lamp needs to be kept within reach of the bed in case you have to get up in the middle of the night.
  • Cords are a hazard. If there is a phone in your room that isn’t in reach of the bed, consider moving it closer.
  • The path to your room nearest to the bathroom needs to have enough light that you can see if you have to get up in the middle of the night.
  • Ensure that there is an easy to reach light that you can get to from the bed.

Living Room Safety

A living room will normally have a TV with cords, chairs, tables, telephones and other things that can cause someone to get injured. You could also have a fireplace in the room which is a safety concern. Below are a few things that need to be part of your checklist when it comes to your living room:

  • Remove any furniture that feels wobbly or loose as it could be a safety hazard.
  • Do not run any cords under rugs and keep pathways clear of wires that may cause a person to trip.
  • Remove foot rests, low coffee tables, or anything else that is low to the ground and blocks a clear path through the room.
  • Check all carpet and rugs to ensure that they are level with the ground. If either surfaces bunch up they may cause a person to trip and then fall.
  • If you have a fireplace and a chimney, ensure that it is cleaned before it is used. Clogged chimneys can cause smoke and poisonous fumes to enter into your home.

Checklist For Fall Prevention

Keeping seniors safe in their homes takes some effort in identifying problem areas.  Most of the issues that cause seniors to fall in their homes are issues with problems with flooring, stairs, and slippery surfaces.  These issues can be minimized by keeping an eye on the condition of the home.

  • Make sure hallways and paths are in good repair.
  • Ensure all unlevel areas and stairs have handrails.
  • Install high visibility colors on stairs.
  • Showers and bathtubs must have non-skid materials.
  • Showers and bathtubs must have grab bars.
  • Purchase and put in place bathroom safety equipment.
  • Use non-skid layers under rugs in the home to prevent slips.
  • Secure rugs to floor or remove them to prevent tripping.
  • Install better lighting in home and nightlights.
  • Get a home evaluation done for seniors in physical therapy.
  • Use walkers and canes to help steady weakness or balance problems.

Wrapping Up

Home safety is something that needs to be taken seriously for seniors. When a person ages, they can become less physically capable as they were when younger and much more vulnerable to an injury in the home. Accidents can happen anywhere in the home, so a safety checklist for the home is very much recommended.

SLS Communities offers home care services to help watch for an eliminate safety and health challenges as they come along.  We also offer senior care at our communities for independent living, assisted living, and even memory care.  No matter what level of senior care you’re looking for SLS Communities can help you find the care solutions you’re seeking. Call 480-348-0300 for more information about our home care services in Arizona.

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