When it comes to memory care, finding a facility that offers exceptional care and a comforting environment is vital for your loved ones. Northwoods Memory Care Suites, located in Blaine, Minnesota, is a facility dedicated to providing compassionate care and creating a home-like setting for seniors struggling with memory-related conditions. In this blog post, we will delve into the story behind Northwoods Memory Care Suites, the passionate couple behind its success, and the exceptional care options they offer. A Journey of Compassion and Care Northwoods Memory Care Suites is locally owned and operated by a dedicated husband and wife team, Kyle and Sherri Lewis. With a combined 45 years of experience in the healthcare industry, their shared commitment to serving those in need has driven them to establish a memory care facility that goes above and beyond for its residents. As Executive Director, Kyle brings his expertise in management and operations, while Sherri, the dedicated Nurse, utilizes her skills to provide exceptional care. Their journeys in senior care led them to a shared passion for helping seniors with memory-related conditions. Together, they have formed a dynamic duo that residents and their families rely on for compassionate care. Creating a Close-Knit Community One of the remarkable aspects of Northwoods Memory Care Suites is the sense of community it fosters. Residents and their families become part of an extended family, where harmony and support thrive. The facility goes beyond providing top-notch medical care, ensuring that a comforting and familiar atmosphere emulates the feeling of home. Preserving Dignity and Joy Kyle and Sherris commitment to the well-being and happiness of their residents is unwavering. They understand the significance of preserving dignity, providing comfort, and creating moments of joy for those living with memory-related conditions. Through their extensive experience and genuine care, they continue to make a profound impact on the lives of the elderly population in Blaine, Minnesota. A Vision of Revolutionizing Care Northwoods Memory Care Suites was born out of a vision to revolutionize how we care for the elderly, especially those living with dementia. Unlike traditional, larger-scale care facilities, Northwoods has thoughtfully and purposefully designed their residence to emulate the warmth and familiarity of home. With a small, home-like setting, residents can feel truly at ease, knowing that Kyle and Sherri Lewis work full-time to ensure they receive the attention and care they deserve. At Northwoods Memory Care Suites, every individual is valued, and their unique life journey is honored. The facilitys mission is to provide a haven where the elderly are treasured, respected, and cherished. Compassionate caregivers understand the importance of each persons life and strive to create beautiful memories for residents. If you are seeking a facility that provides compassionate care and a welcoming environment, Northwoods Memory Care Suites is the answer. Schedule a tour today and experience the difference they can make in your familys life. 

Memory care is a specialized type of care that focuses on individuals with memory-related conditions, such as dementia or Alzheimers disease. When it becomes challenging to provide adequate care at home, finding the right memory care facility for your loved ones can offer them the support, safety, and quality of life they need. In this guide, we will explore the key steps to help you find the best memory care option for your loved ones. What Needs Should You Assess of Your Loved One? Start by assessing your loved ones specific needs and challenges. Consider their level of cognitive impairment, any behavioral issues, medical requirements, and lifestyle preferences. Understanding these factors will help you identify memory care facilities that can provide the appropriate level of care and support. Research and Visit Multiple Facilities Do thorough research on memory care facilities in your area. Look for reputable facilities with a focus on memory care, such as Northwoods Memory Care Suites. Read online reviews, check their website for information about their approach to memory care, and look for any industry accreditations they may have. Once you have a shortlist of potential facilities, schedule visits to each one. During the visit, observe the facilitys environment, cleanliness, security measures, and staff-resident interactions. Ask questions about their staff training, safety protocols, activities program, and medical support. What Specializations Should You Consider for a Facility? Memory care facilities should have a specific focus on memory-related conditions. Ensure that the facility you choose has experience and expertise in caring for individuals with dementia or Alzheimers disease. Ask about their approach to memory care, therapy programs, and how they handle challenging behaviors. Understanding the facilitys specialization will give you confidence in their ability to meet your loved ones needs. Evaluate Staff Qualifications and Ratios The quality of care provided by a memory care facility heavily relies on the staff. Inquire about the qualifications, experience, and training of the staff members at each facility you visit. Find out the staff-to-resident ratio to ensure that your loved one will receive personalized attention and care. Additionally, ask if there is a registered nurse on-site or on-call 24/7, as having access to medical expertise is crucial in managing any health issues that may arise. What Amenities Should You Consider? Look for memory care facilities that offer a range of amenities and services to enhance the well-being of their residents. This may include nutritious meals tailored to individual dietary needs, engaging activities designed to stimulate memory and cognition, transportation services, and personalized care plans. Specific amenities like secure outdoor spaces, sensory-rich memory walks, or pet therapy programs can contribute to a nurturing and comfortable environment for your loved ones. Assess Cost and Financial Planning  Memory care can be costly, so its essential to consider the financial aspects. Inquire about the facilitys pricing structure and what factors may affect the cost, such as the level of care needed or specific services required. Ask if they accept insurance, long-term care insurance, or government assistance programs like Elderly Waiver. Choosing a memory care facility is a significant decision that can greatly impact the quality of life for your loved ones. By carefully assessing their needs, researching potential facilities, considering specialization, evaluating staff qualifications, and considering amenities and costs, you can find the right memory care facility to provide the care, support, and security your loved ones deserve. Remember to be thorough in your research and visit multiple facilities to make an informed choice. Your loved ones deserve the best care possible, and finding the right memory care facility can make a meaningful difference in their lives. 

Dont wait for an accident to happen. If your elderly parent is living alone in their own home, it is important to take steps in advance, to prevent accidents from happening in the first place.  It is wise to access the situation and assist in implementing safety solutions around the home.Statistics are frightening. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that on average, 1.4 million seniors 65 years of age and older are treated in hospital emergency rooms annually as a result of an accident in the home. Of that age group, the rate of injury is the highest for those 75 years of age and older.Fortunately, most accidents are preventable. By spotting and addressing these hazards early on, you can prevent potential injuries.Heres a home safety guide for seniors to help prevent falls, burns and other household accidents.7 Ways to Make the Home Safe for Your Elderly Loved OnePlace flashlights in several rooms of the house.Make sure there is flashlight available, that is easy to reach from the bed, coffee table, porch seat and any other dimly-lit area in the house where your loved one likes to spend time especially at night. With an easy-to-reach flashlight in place, the senior can safely roam around the home, even in the event of a power outage.Also, keep in mind that stairs, entryways and exteriors should be well-lit at all times. Switches should be easy to reach from doorways.Install grab bars, ramps and railings in the home as needed.Many seniors need something to hold on to in order to help maintain their balance. Grab bars are necessities, particularly in the bathroom. Use your judgement to determine which other areas of the home should be equipped with grab bars. Ramps are crucial if your loved one uses a wheelchair or walker occasionally or at all times. If they are still able to use stairs safely, make sure railings are strong enough for them to grab ahold of and use for support.Maintain a fireproof kitchen.One of the most important things you can do to fireproof a home is to keep a functioning fire extinguisher in the kitchen. Make sure your loved one knows its location and how to use it properly. Ventilation and exhaust systems should be routinely serviced and maintained. Ensure all smoke alarms are working properly and have fresh batteries inserted. Make sure all potential fire sources (candles, ashtrays, etc.) are away from flammable items, such as blankets, bedding, newspapers, etc. Develop an emergency escape plan with your loved one and go over it with them in detail. Print out a copy and post it on the refrigerator if you feel it is necessary.Stairs should be evenly constructed, clear of clutter and well-lit.An evenly built, clear and well-lit staircase with sturdy handrails makes the home safer for the elderly. Serious injuries can occur as a result of an unstable staircase. Never leave clutter on a staircase. Items like shoes or bags left on the stairs can easily lead to a fall resulting in a very serious injury. Consider installing a stair lift if stairs are becoming too difficult or dangerous for your loved one to manage.Renovate the bathroom with walk-in bathtubs or showers.Walk-in tubs (watertight tubs with doors) are built for individuals who have difficulty getting in and out of a traditional bathtub. They also help prevent slipping and come in right or left-handed configurations. This allows for seniors to bathe independently and safely. Walk-in showers are also preferred to those that have sliding shower doors.Program emergency numbers into their cell phone.Show your loved one how to make calls to these contacts quickly and easily. Helping them navigate the phone and even playing out a hypothetical scenario is helpful. In the event of an emergency, time is of the essence! Getting the most important numbers ready for quick dialing can help save a life!Rugs and carpets must be level with the ground and pathways should be clear from cords and/or wires. A homes fundamental components can possibly be dangerous for the elderly when basic safety precautions are not taken. Accidents can happen when floors are not flat and uniform, thus increasing the risk of slips and falls. Always make sure pathways are safely walk-able and consider installing slip-resistant surfaces.There are many things you can do to help keep your loved one safe. This list is just a start and provides some of the most common steps to take. If you like this guide, please share it with someone you know will benefit from it!While many seniors prefer to live independently, they may need assistance with chores, personal care, keeping up with their medications or simply would appreciate extra companionship during the day.  Elderlink Home Care can help you keep your favorite senior safe.