Florida - Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte Counties

For more information on the author, Home Instead, CLICK HERE!Discover the ways you could empathize with those who have sensory loss. These simple exercises can recreate the effects of these conditions.Blurry or low vision Imagine being unable to see the world clearly or living with blind spots or no peripheral vision. Approximately one person in three has some form of vision-reducing eye disease by the age of 65, according to the American Family Physician.Discover how challenging it can be to have blurry or low vision by trying this at home. Impaired vision could make doing even simple tasks more difficult. Try this:Check out the Cooking with Cataracts interactive video to discover what it might be like to bake Grandmas favorite cookies if you have cataracts.Fold a plastic bag four times and hold it in front of your eyes, then attempt to make out words on a paper or images in front of you.Place Vaseline on eyeglasses to recreate the cloudy vision of those who have cataracts.Stick masking tape on each half of an eyeglass lens to help empathize with someone who has glaucoma.Muffled sounds Consider being unable to hear a television show or conversation. Approximately one in three people in the United States between the ages of 65 and 74 has hearing loss, and nearly half of those older than 75 have difficulty hearing.Hearing impairment can threaten quality of life. Try this at home:Attempt to have an interactive conversation wearing earplugs.Check out a hearing loss phone app or simulation to experience what its like to live with hearing loss.Say the phrase: The five senses tend to decline with senescence. Next, remove f,s,c and then and say it again. All you will likely hear is e i v e e n e . This exercise shows just how easy high-frequency hearing loss might lead to delusion and confusion.Loss of feeling Contemplate what it would be like to experience numbness and tingling in the hands or feet. More than20 million people in the United States have been estimated to have some form of peripheral neuropathy, nerve damage that often affects hands and feet.Loss of feeling could threaten mobility and jeopardize safety. Try this at home:Put corn kernels in socks and try walking to better understand what its like to experience neuropathy.Place cotton balls in the tips of plastic gloves. Now put slender wooden sticks or coffee stirrers in each finger and try to handle everyday tasks such as opening a pill bottle.Tasteless meals Think about your favorite food, how it melts in your mouth and what you enjoy most about the texture and taste. Now, imagine that you couldn't taste that culinary favorite or you couldn't chew. By the age of 65, 50 percent of taste buds are lost by the average adult.Without taste, aging adults may not be getting the nutrition they need. Try this at home:To simulate what it would be like to face dental challenges, place two unsalted crackers in your mouth and drink an unsweetened drink mix, colored water or weak lemonade. Eat the cracker without chewing to illustrate the decrease in dental health.Smell an onion while eating an apple to experience how it changes the taste. Loss of taste can be an issue for those on multiple medications or being treated for diseases such as cancer.Lost scent Reflect on the smell of your favorite candle or the aroma of a much-loved recipe. Aging Care reports that 30 percent of Americans between ages 70 and 80 have a problem with their sense of smell.Smell and taste go hand in hand. Inability to smell might impact appetite. Try this at home:Since smell and taste are so closely aligned, try eating your favorite food or milling around your favorite candle while wearing nose plugs.Cut up foods similar in texture such as apples, carrots and potatoes. Then hold your nose or wear nose plugs. Close your eyes and ask someone to put the foods under your nose. Try to identify those by smell.After completing these exercises, you'll have a better idea of what many aging adults face as they experience sensory loss.

Helping older loved ones maintain quality of life and thrive is paramount for family caregivers. A major aspect of bolstering the quality of life for older loved ones is finding activities that are fun, engaging, and bring a sense of fulfillment into their lives. If the individual isn't as mobile as they used to be, however, finding activities that will work can be challenging. While physical activity may be restricted, there are still many enjoyable hobbies and pursuits that can keep loved ones engaged, mentally stimulated, and connected to the world around them.Ideas for Activities for Older Adults With Limited MobilityArt and Crafts: Engaging in artistic endeavors fosters self-expression and offers a sense of accomplishment and relaxation. Break out art supplies like watercolor paints, knitting materials, stamps and ink, etc., and make something together.Reading and Audiobooks: For those who enjoy diving into a good book, reading or listening to audiobooks can transport them to different worlds and stimulate their imagination. Consider setting up a cozy reading nook with comfortable seating and good lighting. For added companionship, find a book that you can read to or with the person and have a personal book club.Puzzles and Games: Whether it's crossword puzzles, Sudoku, or board games, mentally stimulating activities can help keep the mind sharp. They are also easy for people of all mobility levels to enjoy. Choose games that cater to their interests and abilities, and enjoy quality time together.Gardening: For nature lovers, gardening can be a therapeutic and rewarding activity, and it doesnt have to involve kneeling, bending, or stooping. Tall container gardens allow people with limited mobility to garden while standing or seated. Indoor plants can also be potted while seated at a table, allowing for the beauty of nature to be enjoyed inside.Virtual Tours and Travel:Thanks to modern technology, older adults can explore the world virtually through online tours and travel documentaries. From famous landmarks to exotic destinations, there's a wealth of virtual experiences waiting to be discovered from the comfort of home.Real World Travel:For those who wish to travel in real life, there are a number of travel agencies whose sole purpose is to help people with limited mobility see the world. Research mobility-friendly travel companies to find one that meets the persons needs and preferences.Music and Dance:Music has a powerful ability to uplift the spirit and evoke cherished memories. Encourage the individual to listen to their favorite songs or even participate in seated dance exercises to stay active and energized.Cooking and Baking:The kitchen is a great place to get creative and bond with loved ones of all abilities. Cooking together allows you to try out new recipes, provides a sensory experience, promotes social interaction, and stimulates the appetite.Enjoying the Great Outdoors: Staying active and getting out in nature is beneficial for the body and mind. Search for paved hiking trails and walking paths in your area that can accommodate wheelchairs, walkers, and other adaptive equipment to ensure that everyone can have an enjoyable experience. You can also visit local botanical gardens that make enjoying the outdoors even more accessible.Take in a Show: Taking in a matinee is a great way to spend an afternoon. Whether its a new blockbuster at a local movie theater, a community play, or even just a movie marathon on the couch, watching something together is a fun and easy way to enjoy a little bonding time.While life with limited mobility may pose some challenges, it doesnt have to be any less fulfilling. And with the help of a trusted referred care provider from CareTime, American, Advocate, and Whitsyms In-Home Care, older loved ones can stay active and engaged in the ways they enjoy most.Contact us today to find out more about how home care services can help implement a variety of activities for older adults with limited mobility and ensure safety and accessibility. Click the link to the location nearest you below:American In-Home Care  Serving North, Central, and West Coast of FloridaAdvocate In-Home Care  Serving Southeast and Southwest FloridaWhitsyms In-Home Care  Serving Southeast and Southwest FloridaCareTime  Serving Ocala, Florida and the Surrounding AreasState of Florida License and Registration Numbers: 30211518, 30211651, 30211295, 30211390, 30210978, 30211293, 30211382, 30211504, 30211733, 30211535, 30211531, 30211710, 30211709, 30211045, 30211751

When youre looking for skilled nursing care for a loved one, having a clear understanding of the options can help you make the right choice. Skilled nursing care is provided in several different settings, including hospital wings, free-standing nursing homes and Life Plan Communities (also known as continuing care retirement communities or CCRCs). However, its important to know theyre not all the same, and the experience youll have with skilled nursing in a Life Plan Community versus a nursing home is very different. Here, we explore the differences between skilled nursing care in a Life Plan Community and a nursing home and what to expect with each type of care. What is Skilled Nursing?Skilled nursing is primarily for those who need round-the-clock care by licensed medical staff after a hospital stay for rehabilitation, or for the long term in cases when a persons chronic illness or disability requires the specialized care of skilled nursing. Skilled nursing at Friendship Village of Bradenton includes: 24-hour nursing care Licensed and certified staff Variety of daily activities including art, technology and music programs Regular health care assessments Care meetings with resident and family Chaplain Daily housekeeping Three nutritious meals served restaurant-style, plus daily snacks Specialized diets monitored by an in-house registered dietician/nutritionist Skilled Nursing Care in a Life Plan CommunityThe average length of stay in skilled nursing care is 28 days. It is offered by Life Plan Communities to provide short- and long-term care for those who need continuous care for medical needs and significant help with activities of daily living. The goal of short-term skilled nursing care is to work toward recovery and regaining the ability to perform daily tasks, so the person may be able to return to an assisted or independent living setting. Complexity of care: Skilled nursing facilities within a Life Plan Community employ trained medical staff licensed to offer care, including wound care, IV therapy, medication injection and close monitoring of chronic health conditions 24-hours a day. In addition, rehabilitative care is provided to help patients recover after an injury, illness or surgery. Specialized care plans may be developed for Parkinsons care and stroke recovery. Medical team: An attending physician or nurse practitioner oversees the care of each patient in a skilled nursing area, with care delivered by a team of medical providers including medical directors; registered nurses (RNs); licensed practical nurses (LPNs); certified nursing assistants (CNAs); licensed social workers; registered dietitians; and licensed physical, occupational and speech therapists. Nursing Home CareA nursing home, also known as a long-term care center or extended care facility, provides long-term residential care for older adults who are no longer able to live independently. According to the Department of Human Services and the National Center for Health Statistics, the average length of stay in a nursing home is 485 days. The focus of care is to provide assistance with dressing, grooming, bathing, meal preparation and other daily tasks. Residents of a nursing home may reside in a private or semi-private suite with a nurses station nearby. Complexity of care: Nursing home care is intended for those who need extensive help with activities of daily living and general care such as medication management, catheter care, oxygen administration and the monitoring of health conditions. Some nursing homes have special areas for those who need more complex medical care. Medical team: Nursing homes are professionally staffed by nurses, nurses aides, social workers and dietitians. CNAs provide much of the care with oversight from an RN or LPN. Benefits of Skilled Nursing in a Life Plan CommunityIf a doctor determines your loved one would benefit from skilled nursing care, you want to find a place where theyll have everything they need to recover and regain as much independence as possible. Choosing a Life Plan Community for skilled nursing care ensures access to a high level of care in a supportive environment where theyll have opportunities to engage socially and thrive. Heres why you should consider skilled nursing in a Life Plan Community: Skilled nursing facilities within Life Plan Communities are able to provide care for residents with medically complex conditions. Your skilled nursing team in a Life Plan Community will get to know your loved one and develop a personalized care plan for their medical needs. Skilled nursing care is overseen by an attending physician or nurse practitioner, with 24-hour nursing care provided by licensed nursing staff. Life Plan Communities offer a full continuum of care, making it easy to transition to other levels of care on the same campus, if needed. Life Plan Communities have a warm and inviting environment that feels more like home than a hospital stay. Skilled nursing care may be covered in part by Medicare for up to 100 days, if eligibility requirements are met. Learn more about Medicare coverage for skilled nursing facility care. Why Choose Freedom Village of Bradenton?Our long-term care, including skilled nursing, at Freedom Village of Bradenton provides peace of mind when you need it most. You can trust that your loved one will be cared for in a supportive environment, with every comfort and convenience at their fingertips. In addition to 24-hour skilled nursing care, we offer a variety of services and amenities, including daily housekeeping and laundry; chef-prepared meals with dietary options; daily activities in music, art and technology; and so much more. Contact us today to learn more about skilled nursing program in our Life Plan Community or to schedule a personal visit. 

At Grand Living, we believe the next chapter of a seniors life should be filled with excitement, purpose, and happiness. Our FACETS program is designed to enhance every aspect of our residents lives, offering enriching activities that nurture their well-being in a setting similar to a luxury resort. The result? A vibrant, remarkable community where residents experience FIRST CLASS HAPPINESS every single day.What is Grand Livings FACETS Program?FACETS is more than just a collection of events and activitiesits a way of life. Our program encompasses life-enriching experiences that touch on every facet of well-being, from physical health and social connection to lifelong learning and creativity. Through carefully curated activities, our senior residents are empowered to continue growing, rediscover old hobbies, explore new passions, and engage with their community in meaningful ways. The choices are endless, whether its enjoying live music, attending a theater performance, practicing yoga, or participating in an art class.FACETS delivers FIRST CLASS HAPPINESSHeres a glimpse into the top 10 ways Grand Livings FACETS delivers FIRST CLASS HAPPINESS to all our residents:Lifelong Learning: Our residents can immerse themselves in a variety of educational programs, like book clubs, lectures, and our GRAND PATRIOTS (for our residents who have served our country) educational series. Theres always something new to learn and explore.Cultural Enrichment: Through our BRAVO program, residents enjoy access to world-class entertainment, including live music, theater, and dance performancessome communities even host aerial artists and special celebrity guests.Wellness Focus: Physical health is a cornerstone of the FACETS program, with daily fitness options like yoga, swimming, Chair Zumba, and even bocce ball to keep everyone moving and feeling their best.Creative Expression: Art classes like Painting with a Purpose allow residents to explore their creative sides, with their masterpieces proudly displayed throughout the community, making it feel more like home.Social Connection: Our Social Hours twice a week are like hosting a mini party where residents sip cocktails, dance to their favorite tunes, and enjoy the company of friends.Personal Growth: Residents are encouraged to try new things or perfect existing hobbies, such as shooting pool, playing cards, or learning new dance moves. There are always opportunities to grow and thrive.Community Outings: Regular excursions to local parks, restaurants, and cultural events allow residents to explore the world around them while staying connected to their community.Special Events & Traditions: Grand Livings FACETS program is known for unique and memorable events like Senior Prom, Holiday World Market, and Chili Cook-Offs, bringing excitement and joy to all.Intergenerational Engagement: With innovative programs like TikTok dance recreations, we bridge the generational gap, giving residents a fun way to connect with their grandchildren and great-grandchildren.Legacy and Purpose: Through legacy-focused activities such as GRAND PERSPECTIVES, where residents mentor younger generations and share their wisdom, helping them stay connected to their life stories.A Day in the Life of Our FACETS DirectorsOur FACETS Directors are at the heart of this program, bringing passion, creativity, and dedication to their roles. Every day, they work to ensure residents have access to enriching activities that keep them engaged and fulfilled. Here are the perspectives of some of these hardworking individuals:Laura Williams, Director of FACETS at Tuscan Lakes, prides herself on building strong connections with residents. Her creative spirit shines through in events like ArkFestan event where residents and their dogs take part in fun activities, from dancing dogs to vendor stalls. Laura also leads Olympics, a community-wide competition that fosters friendly rivalry with their sister community, culminating in an unforgettable final event.At Citrus Hills, Director of FACETS Connie Gerhart emphasizes the importance of meaningful connections. From social outings to Chair Zumba and the Recipe Club, her goal is to create an atmosphere where residents feel a true sense of belonging. For Connie, the highlight of her day is simply the warmth of smiles and greetings from residentsa reminder of the close-knit community shes built.For Eric T. Peterson, Director of FACETS at Tower Place, his job feels more like hosting a series of incredible parties! He thrives on keeping residents engaged, from fun social hours to more intimate gatherings where he gets to know each resident on a personal level. His focus is always on making every day at Grand Living even better than the last.Jill Muzzy, Director of FACETS at Lakewood Ranch, brings creativity to new heights with events like the Grand Living Senior Prom. Her passion for intergenerational activities, like recreating TikTok dance trends with residents, is a unique touch that brings laughter, joy, and connection across generations.Rediscover Your PassionsThe beauty of Grand Livings FACETS program lies in the choices it offers. Whether its quiet reflection in our serene Chapel, spirited conversation over a  game of cards, or exploring a new hobby like pool or painting, our residents have the freedom to shape their days in ways that bring them joy. With endless opportunities to learn, create, and connect, FIRST CLASS HAPPINESS is just a part of everyday life.Come see for yourselfschedule a tour and start writing the next chapter of your life at Grand Living.