Category: Blog

With cold weather, icy ground, and an increase in cold and flu infections, seniors in particular are at greater risk during the winter season. If you’re caring for a senior loved one or are looking for advice on looking after your own wellbeing, then here are some easy-to-follow health tips for seniors this winter.

Get your flu shot

Since influenza is more commonly contracted in cold weather, it’s important now more than ever to make sure you’re up to date with your flu shots. While the flu is often harmless, complications arising from it are much more common among seniors. It can lead to dehydration, pneumonia, and other dangerous conditions.

Dress for the weather

When you go outside in the cold, especially in the snow and frost, it’s important to dress appropriately. This means lots of layers and winter clothing to keep you warm and reduce exposure of your skin to the cold air. These measures prevent the risk of hypothermia and frostbite in freezing temperatures.

It also means suitable footwear that will help you maintain your grip on slippery surfaces. Falls on ice can lead to fractures, head trauma, and other injuries. If you’re worried about the risk of falling, then avoid walking outside until the paths are clear, or use a cane or other walking aid if you must go outside.

Your mental health

The cold and darkness in the winter can get people down, even leading to the condition known as SAD (seasonal affective disorder). Combat these effects by staying active, social, getting out in the fresh air and sunlight when possible, and eating a healthy, balanced diet.

Prepare for storms

If your area is prone to winter storms, then you should also prepare for the chances of power outages in your home. Some essentials to keep are non-perishable foods, bottled water, flashlights, and blankets. Make sure to wrap up warm in your home if the power goes out and you have no alternative heat source.

Be careful on the roads

Driving in bad conditions can be dangerous for anyone, but accidents occur more frequently among the senior population. Make sure your car is prepared for winter by having it serviced and fitting the proper tires. If possible, avoid driving if the roads are icy or in snowstorms.

If you need help caring for a senior loved one this winter, or are looking for alternative senior living options, then contact Bermuda Village for independent living and care in Advance, NC.

Our needs start to change as we age. For some people, this may require a change in scenery, especially if mobility issues prevent them from getting around their home. Seniors can particularly struggle when returning home after an illness or injury and the resulting stay in hospital. If they choose to continue their rehabilitation process at home rather than in a rehabilitative care facility, then you may need to adapt your home to meet their new needs.

Here are a few ways to adapt a home for senior living…

Grab rails

Grab rails situated around the home can help seniors move about freely while also preventing falls. They are commonly placed in the shower or bath to prevent slips, and next to the toilet to help seniors sit down and get up more easily. Grab rails can also help people in wheelchairs get around independently.

Stairlift

A single-story home is much easier for seniors to navigate, but if moving house isn’t an option, then you may need to install a stairlift so that they can get up and downstairs more easily.

Accessible bathing

Climbing in and out of a bath can be another challenge for seniors with low mobility. Walk-in showers or wet rooms are highly accessible as it continues on the same level as the bathroom floor. You can also place a seat inside the shower so you don’t have to stand up on it. You can also install a walk-in bath, which requires a much smaller step up to get into.

Remote technology

Remote controls for TVs were game changers at the time, but now you can control pretty much anything from where you’re sitting. This can be helpful for seniors with low mobility. If they get up in the night, switching lights on from a single device is safer than walking around in the dark to reach a light switch. An entry camera and smart doorbell can also let them speak to visitors at the door without getting up.

Here are some other smart devices that can help with senior living.

Non-slip flooring

Trips and falls are a common problem among seniors. A fall can be life-threatening, especially for seniors who live alone. Non-slip flooring with plenty of traction can help to prevent this. This type of flooring is particularly important in the bathroom and shower cubicle where floors get wet slippery.

Adapting their home could help seniors retain their independence for longer. But, if their needs escalate beyond this, then independent and assisted living at Bermuda Village is the next best option. Get in touch to find out more.

The current retirement age in the US is currently around 65-67, depending on when you were born, and is likely to slowly increase in the future. Still, some people are working past this age. According to Business Insider, around one-fifth of Americans are working past retirement age. Let’s look at some of the reasons for this and whether or not it’s a positive thing.

Why do some people work past retirement age?

It’s easy to make the assumption that people work past retirement age because they can’t afford to retire. But this, in most cases, is not true. Some Americans are choosing to retire later because they still feel completely able to continue working into their late 60s. This is a logical consequence of longer life expectancy and improved health as we age.

As well as being able to work, some people prefer to continue to work, finding it fulfilling and stimulating, especially if they enjoy their job. There are even cases of people going back to work after retiring because they find themselves getting bored. It makes sense that seniors in active and physically demanding jobs would retire earlier than those in more sedentary positions.

Past retirement age, some seniors may choose to reduce their hours, if their company allows it, or to take on a different job that’s less demanding and with fewer hours.

The pros and cons of working past retirement age

Is it good for us to continue working past retirement age? There are certainly benefits to our mental and physical health. Working in a mentally stimulating job keeps your brain active, which can make a difference when preventing degenerative conditions like dementia. Most jobs also provide a social atmosphere, with colleagues, customers, or both. As we age, it can be more difficult to make and maintain friendships, so staying in work for longer can help us stay social, which helps fight loneliness and depression.

There can be downsides of working past retirement age, though, especially if you are forced into this situation for financial reasons rather than choosing to stay in work. Staying in a job you are not engaged with can be stressful and can negatively impact your mood. Plus, if you’re in a physically demanding job, then this can put an increasing strain on your body as you age.

It’s all about deciding what is right for you, both personally and financially. For more advice on senior living and lifestyle, get in touch with Bermuda Village if you have any questions.

You might think that your youth is the best time to pursue new things, but with work and formal education out of the way, retirement proves for many to be the perfect time for their hobbies. Whether you’re continuing a lifelong passion or looking for something new to try, here are some great hobbies to keep seniors mentally and physically active.

Making music

It’s never too late to learn something new. If you’re looking for a new hobby during retirement, why not pick up an instrument you’ve always wanted to learn how to play? Or perhaps you played an instrument when you were younger and want to start again. You might be surprised by how quickly it comes back to you.

Board games

Bridge is usually the game associated with seniors, but there is a huge variety to choose from other than this. Not only a huge number of card games, but also board games that are becoming increasingly popular, with board game cafés popping up all over. From casual, light-hearted games to more in-depth strategic games, they are great for engaging the brain and having fun with friends and family members.

Video games

And don’t rule out video games. There has been a huge rise in recent years of older adults playing games on consoles, PC, and mobile. The best example of this is Shirley Curry, aka the Skyrim Grandma, who has her own YouTube channel with more than 750 thousand subscribers! She posts videos of herself playing the game and has gained such a huge following that she’s even going to appear in the upcoming game in The Elder Scrolls series that she enjoys.

Arts and crafts

If you’d rather create something out of your hobby, there are lots of different arts and crafts to try out in your senior years. Drawing, painting, sewing, knitting, model making, photography, jewelry making, woodwork, and so many more. There’s sure to be something that takes your interest. Creative activities have even been found to help dementia patients and may even make dementia less likely to occur in healthy adults.

Golfing

It might be a cliché, but golfing among seniors is hugely popular for lots of reasons. It’s a great way to get out in the fresh air and stretch the legs while also playing a fun and challenging sport. It’s great for socialization as well as mental and physical health. Bermuda Village is located in the Bermuda Run Country Club with its own 36-hole golf course, so this is a hobby that’s easy for you to pursue if you move into our independent living community.

Now is the perfect time for you to try out different hobbies, whether at home, at local classes, or in an independent living or retirement community. Get in touch with Bermuda Village if you have any questions about the activities we offer for residents.

Do you look forward to your golden years of retirement? However you plan to spend those years, it’s important that you plan and prepare for them so that you know you have everything you need. If you suddenly need healthcare or senior living, then you and your family want to know that this can all be taken care of.

Let’s look at some tips to help you plan for a healthy and happy retirement, whatever stage of life you’re at.

Saving money for retirement

It’s never too soon, or too late, to start putting extra money away for your retirement. But it also helps to know how much you’ll need for a comfortable retirement. Start by planning out a budget. What will your expenses be like when you’re in retirement? If you’re a long way off this point, then this process might be a little more difficult, but you can work with a financial planner to help you plot out your budgetary needs.

When determining your budget, don’t forget to account for emergency needs like healthcare and senior living. It always helps to have an extra pot stashed away for these kinds of emergencies. Think about regular healthcare as part of your budget, too. Dental check-ups, medications, vision care, and other expenses should all be taken into consideration.

When saving for retirement, it’s important that you understand all the ways you can contribute toward this retirement pot. Put your own money away whenever you can, but also make sure you understand your employer’s pension plan and how to make the most out of this. If they don’t offer one, then why not suggest it to them?

Planning care for retirement

Planning for retirement isn’t just about saving up. It also helps to have contingency plans in place for various different outcomes. Can you continue to live in the same home or will you move into a more accessible one? Or perhaps you can adapt your current home to make it more suitable. If you need care, who will provide it, a family member, a professional caregiver, or an assisted living community?

You will also need to think about legal issues like assigning a power of attorney and finalizing your will. You want to be prepared for every outcome and make sure both you and your family are looked after in any eventuality.

If you want to prepare for your future care needs, then contact Bermuda Village to find out how we can support and accommodate you as your needs change during your golden years.

When a senior has been in hospital following an injury or illness, it is important to take the proper precautions when it comes to their care. After being discharged, there is an increased risk of falling ill or becoming injured again. People want to get back to their normal lives as quickly as possible, not always taking into consideration the fact that they are still recuperating their strength. This is where short-term rehabilitative care can come in handy.

What is short-term rehabilitation?

Short-term rehabilitative care is designed for those who have recently been discharged from hospital and still require some level of care. This might include physical therapy following an injury, support with medication management, speech therapy, and care with day-to-day tasks like washing. This kind of rehabilitation can take place in a dedicated care facility or the patient’s home.

Here are some of the main benefits of short-term rehabilitation following treatment in a hospital…

It provides a comfortable environment

The clinical setting of a hospital can bring you down. The effect this has on your mood and mental state can actually be detrimental to recovery. Continuing your recovery at home or in an assisted living facility provides you with a more comfortable environment to live in, even if it’s only for a short period.

Don’t rush to get back on your feet

Trying to do too much all at once after being in hospital can send your recovery progress back in the opposite direction. It’s important to take your time with recovery and not push yourself too hard. In a short-term care setting, you can relax and get the support you need until you are ready to live independently again.

Get professional care tailored to you

No matter what you were hospitalized for and what symptoms you’re recovering from, you can find professional caregivers who are experienced in helping others in your situation. Whether you need nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, or memory care, finding the right care facility will give you the help you need.

Emotional support from others around you

Navigating visiting hours in a hospital can be a challenge, meaning you don’t always get to see much of your friends and family. Whether you receive short-term care at home or in an assisted living community, you’ll be in a more social and emotionally supportive environment. You might move in with a family member during your recovery or receive regular visits at home from friends and family. And assisted living is a friendly setting where socialization between residents is encouraged and facilitated.

If you or a loved one need short-term rehabilitation following a hospital stay in North Carolina, then contact Bermuda Village to find out more about our expert care services and inviting assisted living community in the Bermuda Run Country Club.

Seniors face some limitations as they get older, limitations that may put them in need of receiving care. But perhaps they don’t yet need assisted living or around-the-clock care, or maybe they’re just resisting the change. If you’re concerned about a loved one in this position, then there is some technology that can put your mind at ease and give them access to support when they need it.

What is a medical alert system?

A medical alert system is a device that can be used to quickly and easily call for help if a senior has fallen or in other emergencies. The device is typically worn on your person, around your wrist or simply kept in your pocket, for example. If the senior needs help, they can push a button on this device to trigger an alarm.

What happens when you press this button depends on whether the system is monitored or non-monitored. Monitored devices connect with a live support team who can respond to the call. If needed, they can then call the emergency services, a family member, or a caregiver to get the appropriate help for the senior. A non-monitored alert system will automatically call numbers that need to be programmed into the system during set-up.

The benefits of medical alert systems

Seniors who live alone can greatly benefit from a medical alert system. It’s something that you hope you won’t need, but it’s reassuring to know it’s there if you do need it. Here are some of the important benefits of these devices:

• Maintain your independence – Some seniors prefer to stay in their homes in their later years rather than moving to assisted or independent living. These devices allow them to do this and maintain their independence while still having access to the care they need.
• Get help when you need it – Falls are a big risk for seniors, especially during rehabilitation. Then there are other threats like heart attack and stroke. If any of these occur, a medical alert system ensures that you can get the medical attention you need ASAP. This support is available at all times.
• Save money on care – One factor for some seniors wanting to stay at home is the cost of care. A medical alert system is affordable and a great alternative to hiring an in-house caregiver or paying for rehabilitative care.

There are lots of care options to suit older adults, whether they need a lot of help or just a little. To find out more about senior care around Bermuda Run, Clemmons, and Winston Salem, contact us today for our support.

Depression is an increasingly prevalent problem in today’s society. Some people become more at risk of experiencing depression as they age. Seniors who are isolated and perhaps no longer able to take part in the activities they used to enjoy may develop symptoms of depression as a result of these changes.

Caregivers should be mindful of this and take steps to look after the mental health of seniors in their care. But, at the same time, caregivers also need to be mindful of their own mental health. Shouldering the burden of care can be stressful and demanding. Let’s look at some tips for preventing depression in both seniors and their caregivers.

Preventing depression in older adults

When caring for seniors, it’s important to encourage them to stay connected. Socialization is one of the most important factors, as loneliness is a common problem for seniors. As well as friends and family visits, seniors could join a club or a class where they can meet new people and see them on a regular basis.

It also helps to set goals with them so that they have something to work toward. Goals will vary greatly depending on the person’s interests and capabilities. Talk together about what kinds of goals they could set. Pursuing hobbies is also good for lifting spirits and giving them something to look forward to. Gardening is a popular hobby among seniors.

Maintaining a balanced diet and staying active can help to maintain mental health as well as physical health. So, make sure they’re eating enough and that they’re getting a mix of fruit, vegetables, carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein.

Looking after your own mental health

Self-care is also important for caregivers. Make sure that you give yourself enough breaks and time off from your responsibilities. If you can, try sharing your duties with your siblings or other family members. If there is no one else available, then try looking into temporary in-home care services or respite care.

Focus on your own diet and activity levels, too. The same principles apply to you as they do to those you’re caring for, so make sure you’re not neglecting your own needs because you’re too focused on them. As well as taking the time to socialize, you should also have someone who you can talk to if you’re facing problems. This could be a friend, a family member, or a therapist.

Do you need support when caring for an elderly loved one? At Bermuda Village, we provide independent living, assisted living, and additional care solutions for seniors. Get in touch to find out more about our community in Bermuda Run.

We know how tough being a primary caregiver can be. You dedicate so many hours to looking after your loved one as well as handling your own responsibilities, and perhaps even maintaining a job at the same time. Caregivers spend so much of their time looking after others that looking after themselves can easily slip through the cracks.

This is where respite care can help. Read on to find out more about respite care and how

It can help you manage your life and caregiving responsibilities.

What is respite care?

Respite care gives caregivers a break from their daily duties for a short period of time. It may involve a professional carer coming to your home to provide care, or you might take your loved one to a care home for a few days. In the meantime, you can take some time for yourself to rest, relax, enjoy yourself, or take care of any responsibilities that you haven’t had time for. This is suitable for memory care, rehabilitative care, and lots of other needs.

What are the benefits of respite care?

Taking the time to look after yourself makes you a better caregiver in the long-run. If you try to do too much and don’t take the necessary breaks, then you could end up becoming burned out and exhausted. In this state, you could make mistakes and it could lead to mental and physical health problems for yourself. When you come back after respite care, you’ll be refreshed and renewed, ready to take your responsibilities back on.

Caregiving shouldn’t be your entire life, so respite care is a great way to let you enjoy your life outside of these duties. You can reconnect with friends you don’t get to see often, spend time on a hobby, take a vacation, or simply take some time alone.

How to arrange respite care

There are lots of agencies and independent providers that can help you arrange respite care in the US. Assess the needs of your loved one to decide whether in-home or out-of-home respite care is best for them. Then, do some research and compare your options to find the best provider. It helps to make a note of all your daily responsibilities and activities, and all your loved one’s needs so that the interim carer knows what they need to do.

If you’re struggling to manage your caregiving responsibilities, then you should look into respite care as a form of relief. Alternatively, consider whether it’s time to look into assisted living for your loved one. Get in touch with Bermuda Village to find out about our assisted and independent living community in Bermuda Run, NC.

Are you or a family member resisting the move to a senior living community? Whether it’s a retirement community, independent living, or assisted living, moving into one of these senior living communities has a great deal of benefits for both mental and physical health. Here are just a few of the benefits community living brings to seniors.

Healthy meals

At any point in our lives, it can be difficult to motivate ourselves to cook healthy meals for ourselves every day. And seniors with mobility issues or other health conditions may not be fully able to cook for themselves. In either situation, a senior living community ensures that dietary needs are catered for, providing residents with nutritious meals every day.

An active social life

Socialization is important for us throughout our lives. Being in a community surrounded by your peers makes socialization much easier, especially with organized events and activities within the community. This ensures that residents have people to talk to and spend time with, allowing them to make close and meaningful relationships.

Exercise and wellness classes

Another important component of health is staying active. Even gentle exercise like walking and tai chi helps our bodies stay strong and healthy. Senior living communities hold lots of exercise classes and activities to keep residents fit and healthy. Residents can also get advice and guidance when it comes to health and wellness, helping them to make the right decisions for their health, plus rehabilitation if needed.

A safe environment

Living alone comes with certain health and safety risks that living in a community mostly eliminates. Plus, for patients with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, the facility is designed to prevent wandering behavior from putting them in harm’s way. And senior living communities are equipped with grab rails and other safety features to avoid accidents and injury.

Provision of care

In assisted living communities, around-the-clock care is provided. Although the provision of care is less in independent living communities, as residents of these can usually care for themselves, for the most part, some care services are provided for those who need it. This ensures that residents are looked after and kept in good health.

If you or a loved one are ready for the move into assisted living or independent living, then get in touch with Bermuda Village for senior living and rehabilitative care in Bermuda Run, NC.