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. 

Asymmetry The shape of one half of the mole looks different than the other halfBorder The borders or edge of the mole look ragged or blurredColor The mole has uneven coloring, with shades of black, brown, gray or other colors.Diameter The size of the mole is greater than 4 mm or inchEvolving The mole is changes in size, shape, color, or there's a new mole.  It's especially important to pay attention to new moles.  A recent review of published research on melanoma skin cancer has confirmed what many skin doctors and cancer specialists already knew: Most melanomas (an estimated 70 percent) start as a brand new lesion, not in an existing mole.  That means you really need to know your skin. All adults should get in the habit of doing a monthly skin check, so they know where their moles are and what looks normal. That makes it much easier to notice a new or changing mole.   What does melanoma look like?Melanomas can vary a lot in how they look, and detecting them at an early stage can be critical and greatly increase your chances for cure. Generally, it is a good idea to follow the ABCDE signs to identify melanoma. However, you may find only one or two of these signs, and some moles may not fit the ABCDE rules. Many of us will develop moles throughout our lifetimes. Most of the time, they are merely harmless clusters of pigmented cells. If the mole is the same color and solid throughout, it shouldnt be anything to worry about. But keep an eye on moles that have different shades of the same color or different colors. Most melanomas are black or brown, but they can be almost any color: skin-colored, pink, red, purple, blue or white.When the melanoma is more advanced, the texture of the mole looks different as well; the skin surface may look broken or scraped. So watch out for moles that change appearance, especially with redness, scaling, bleeding, or oozing. Normal moles are round or oval, with a smooth edge, and usually within one-quarter inch (six millimeters) in diameter. Bigger moles can be a bad sign. However, size is not definitive proof of cancer. Be especially watchful for new moles.If you see any of the ABCDE signs, notice a new pigmented lesion (even if it doesn't have the characteristics described above) or a mole that's changed, you should talk with your doctor. Don't wait until your next annual physical to bring it upmake an appointment soon. The only way to be sure is to remove tissue and check it for cancer cells. If you do have a melanoma, a doctor can remove it before it has a chance to spread.If you are at a higher risk for melanoma, talk to your doctor about how best to monitor your skin.Melanoma Risk factors include:A personal or family history of melanomaFair skinBlue eyesHistory of sunburnsHaving a large number of moles (more than 50)Reduce your risk of melanoma and other skin cancers by protecting your skin from the sun: Wear a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen every day.Wear a hat, sunglasses and other sun-protective clothing.Seek shade when outside between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.Avoid tanning and tanning beds.Learn more about melanoma, screening, diagnosis and treatment options.

When you find yourself caring for a loved-one living with dementia, the best strategies for positive interactions may not come easily.  But you can learn! Here are some easy tips to make your visits or caregiving smoother. Prove to them that they are right.  All the time.  This is hard, especially when your loved one who is living with dementia is telling the vacation story all wrong. Again! Rather than correcting the story, agree with them, say pleasantly is that right?, or tell me more.  If you try to correct their version, you are setting them up to be embarrassed, hurt or angry, none of which are going to make your next task easier!  Just give a side wink to other listeners and respect your loved one. Allow them to tell the story their way.  Remember, they want to be social, and you can encourage that. Check your expressions!  If your loved-one living with dementia cant find the right words, or you cant understand what theyre saying, do you furrow your eyebrows?  Have you look at them over the top of your eyeglasses at them like your elementary school librarian did?  Have you ever tossed back your head or rolled your eyes once you understood what theyre saying?  Sorry to be blunt, but your expressions just accused them of being stupid.  Making someone feel inferior isnt a way to set up positive interactions. Keep you hands off your hips and your expression neutral or positive. Limit their choices. When you put a 9-page menu in front of them they will be overwhelmed. Rather, suggest two items that theyve had before and liked, then ask which one sounds good today.  Either choice is a winner, and you are the hero for setting them up to succeed in a difficult situation! If your loved-one living with dementia refuses to do something you ask, for example getting up to use the bathroom, try asking them to do something different instead.  I just make some coffee. Lets go get a cup.  Then on the way, say something light-hearted, like oh look, a bathroom. My mother said I should never pass up an opportunity to pee! You can also try singing a song they like and ask them to dance, do a march together, go water the flowers or empty the dishwasher anything to get them up and moving. Dont ask them to remember! You are not their doctor and dont need to conduct a memory test.  Remember that word retrieval is hard and kindly provide them with the information they need to succeed.  Hi mom, its your favorite daughter Deb.  When said with a wink and a smile, she may get the joke, know who you are, and not have to struggle. Tell them things you remember doing together.  I remember how happy I was every time we would cook together.  They may or may not be able to add to your thoughts, but you are still visiting pleasantly. Forgive yourself when you make a mistake. Apologize, ask for forgiveness, try another approach, and learn from your mistakes.  Every tool we learn may work at some point in the dementia journey, just not today. For more helpful tips, visit our Insights from Arthurs page, which provides more information to empower families experiencing dementia to have positive relationships.  

Has your senior loved one been diagnosed with a chronic health condition? Are they still recovering from major surgery or illness? Youre looking at your options between skilled and non-skilled home care services to find the best option for your loved one. In this article we will share the differences between both. What Is Non-Skilled In-Home Health Care?Non-skilled in-home care refers to supportive home care including social care, domiciliary care, and other non-medical services. The term non-skilled is used to differentiate care from home healthcare services that patients may receive from a nurse or nursing assistant. Personal CareWalking and wheelchair assistanceBathing, grooming, and dressing assistanceMedication remindersFall prevention and personal safetyStatus reports to family membersIncontinence and toilet assistance24/7 monitoring after hospitalizationLifestyle SupportHousekeepingHealth and nutrition servicesMeal preparationLaundry and beddingGroceries and errandsTransportationLight exercise and outdoor activityCommunity engagementCompanionshipWhats the Difference Between Skilled and Non-Skilled Care?The difference between skilled and non-skilled care comes down to one factor medical need. Skilled nurses provide medical assistance with medication, wound care, and other recovery and medical needs. Non-skilled, or home care, providers assist with the everyday care and needs of seniors. How Do I Know What Services My Senior Loved One Needs? Home health care, or skilled nursing, services are requested by your health care provider. If your seniors doctor has indicated that they need in-home nursing services, we can work with the doctor and referral services to set up necessary appointments. Often, your loved one will need more than just home medical care, especially if they are recovering from surgery or managing a chronic illness. Our home health care aides can do it all from managing medication injections to meal preparation and everything in between. At Caring Family, we tailor all of your seniors home care and health care services to their needs. What Services Are Covered Through Medicare? Ensuring your loved one receives the care they need means asking one of the most difficult questions how do we afford care? Fortunately, in-home health care is often more affordable than extended hospital stays or nursing homes. Many Medicare plans cover in-home health care, making it the ideal option to help your senior heal and recover their independence. You can learn more about Medicare and home healthcare here and at medicare.gov.Does Medicare Cover Non-Skilled Home Care? Typically, Medicare does not cover home care. However, there are exceptions based on medical need and circumstances. For example, if your loved one needs personal care in addition to home health care services, some of those personal care needs may be covered by Medicare. Be sure to contact your insurance agent for more details. Are You Ready to Build Your Loved Ones Independence? Home care and home health care services help seniors regain and maintain their independence. Contact us today with questions and we will help you set up an appointment with one of our care experts. Call us at 952-345-8770 or our visit us at  www.lifespark.com.