News

Retirement and the later years of life should be a time spent exploring hobbies and spending time with friends and family. Unfortunately, this time also comes with challenges and isn’t always perfect. 

One of the biggest challenges facing aging adults is developing feelings of loneliness. Feeling lonely as a senior adult is more common than people may think, even for seniors with a seemingly active and social lifestyle.

Here are a few contributing factors to the loneliness epidemic.

Changes in Social Circles

Through working years, adults have natural opportunities to socialize with others and make new friends. These opportunities no longer exist in retirement, and seniors must rely on their existing friendships.

Over time, friendships can fade, and it can be hard to make new friends. In addition, friends and family members may pass away, creating a shrinking group of people that seniors can socialize with.

Fewer friends and family means less social interaction, which can quickly lead to feelings of loneliness.

Changes in Mobility

Several health issues can cause changes in mobility for seniors. Even for perfectly healthy seniors, aging joints and bones can make it more difficult to easily get around like they used to. Limited mobility can make it more difficult to get out of the house and meet up with friends or participate in regular activities. 

It can also contribute to lower self-confidence, making seniors less likely to seek out new friends or activities. Seniors with poor mobility often find themselves at home most of the time, which often leads to loneliness.

Reliance on Technology

We know that socializing virtually is not the same as socializing in person. However, we still tend to rely on technology to communicate with people we care about. Phone calls, video calls, and text messages often replace face-to-face conversations.

Even when seniors regularly interact with friends and family through technology, it doesn’t have the same effect as meeting in person and can still lead to a gap in needed social interaction.

Keep Loneliness at Bay at Independent Living in Sarasota

Seniors who live alone are more likely to develop feelings of loneliness. Moving to independent living in Sarasota can be a good option for seniors who lack needed social interaction.

With regularly scheduled events, wellness programs, and friendly neighbors nearby, Sarasota assisted living and independent living provides a true sense of community that helps keep feelings of loneliness at bay.

Sarasota assisted living is a great option for Florida natives who are looking to enjoy their golden years in a thriving community full of friendly, like-minded people. 

As you’re considering your options between facilities for assisted and independent living in Sarasota, you may be wondering how you can live your most authentic life and continue to flaunt your personal style as you transition into a brand-new living situation.

How Your Light Can Shine at Independent Living in Sarasota

There are so many factors that make up your personal style and flair, and many of them have to do with the ways you spend your time and interact with others. Luckily, independent living facilities in Sarasota tend to offer a wide variety of amenities, programs, and lifestyle choices to make you feel like your most fabulous self each day.

Enjoy a Night Out with Restaurant-Style Dining

There’s nothing like a night out on the town at an upscale restaurant. What if you could access top-quality dining conveniently within your assisted living community? Make a statement with a stylish outfit or bold accessory as you enjoy incredible restaurant-style dining just minutes from your front door.

Show Off Your Suit at the Swimming Pool

Depending on the region, some residents of independent living have to wait until the summer months to enjoy a relaxing day by the pool. As a Florida citizen, however, you know how warm and pleasant the weather can be year-round. All of the best assisted living facilities in Sarasota offer heated pools for your comfort, even on the occasional cold day. 

One of the best ways to express your personal style is sporting a unique, flattering swimsuit on a day at the pool, whether you’re swimming laps or simply soaking up the sunlight. At assisted living facilities in Sarasota, the perfect pool day is just a few steps from your home and is available all year round.  

Support Mind, Body, and Spirit with Wellness Programs

When your overall health is supported from the inside out, you can truly shine and be your best, happiest self. 

As you’re settling into your independent living community in Sarasota, don’t hesitate to check out any and allwellness programs that are offered, such as physical fitness, lifelong learning classes, social events, volunteer opportunities, and much more. Your personal style will shine through as you do the things you love and support your health and happiness!

If you’re enjoying independent living in Sarasota, one of the most important things you can do to feel comfortable for the long term is to personalize your space. Your living space in an independent living community should feel like home and should bring you joy and comfort.

A great way to brighten up your space and make it more joyful is through the use of color. Here are 3 fun ways to bring color to your living space.

1. Furniture

When people think of bringing color into a space, they often think of painting the walls or using wallpaper. But color doesn’t have to be quite so permanent. Bringing in some colorful furniture is an easy way to add a pop of color without overtaking your space. 

Best of all, it’s a lot easier to replace a couch or chair than it is to repaint your entire living area.

2. Rugs

Rugs are sometimes overlooked as a source of color, as most people elect a neutral hue when choosing them. However, a colorful area rug can tie a room together and transform the entire feel of the design. 

Even better, rugs are affordable, even if you’re on a budget. If you’re looking to add color to your Sarasota assisted living space overnight, consider a colorful rug. 

3. Bold Art

Instead of painting or hanging wallpaper, an easy way to dress up your walls with some color is through art. Sarasota is home to several art galleries and local artists who produce visually stimulating pieces full of vivid colors. 

Brighten Up Your Space in Independent Living in Sarasota

Sarasota is a wonderful place to enjoy your retirement. Whether you spend a lot of time in your living space or stay busy with activities, your personal space should be a haven. Adding color to your interior design scheme can transform the whole feel of the space and create an exciting, inviting place to come home to.

While aging adults often have more time to dedicate to hobbies and the things they like doing, the transition to retirement isn’t always a smooth one. Particularly as children and friends move away, aging adults can begin to struggle to find a sense of purpose.

There are several ways that friends and loved ones can help aging adults avoid aimlessness and find motivation.

1. Encourage Creativity

Retirement is a great time to explore new interests and foster creativity. Creating art or otherwise engaging in expressive activities can help relieve stress and act as a mood booster for seniors. Creating also helps seniors feel like they are working toward a goal and contributing something to the world.

2. Help Them Develop Daily Habits

Having purpose in life doesn’t always have to involve big things like raising kids or achieving career goals. Purpose can be found in small, mundane actions like exercising every day or trying a new recipe once a week. Daily habits are important for seniors living alone and for those in independent living in Sarasota. 

3. Look for Volunteer Opportunites

Volunteering is one of the most effective ways to find purpose. Most communities have ample opportunities to get involved, whether it is donating time serving meals, walking dogs, or cleaning up parks. Volunteering can be a small commitment done once a month or a big part of a senior’s life.

4. Help Them Find Groups

Social connection is one of the most important pieces of maintaining health as an older adult. Finding a group to spend time with that allows for connection and common understanding can be a very effective way to maintain purpose.

Sarasota assisted living offers endless opportunities for social connection and involvement in groups through resident-run activities, offsite activities, and more.

Finding Purpose in Independent Living in Sarasota

Sarasota is a wonderful place to retire in peace while also maintaining a sense of purpose. With so many vibrant senior communities and activities for retirees, Sarasota residents live life to the fullest during retirement.

Transitioning to assisted or independent living can be uncertain, especially if you are transitioning from living independently in your own home. Understandably, many seniors considering independent living in Sarasota are concerned with the privacy they will have in their new community. 

While each community has different rules, some universal rights apply to residents.

The Right to Modesty

Modesty is important to everyone, particularly independent living residents who may get extra assistance with rehabilitation and therapy. No resident should be subjected to being left uncovered or getting help with private services in front of other residents or an open window or door. 

All residents have the right to modesty and privacy regarding any assistance they receive while in the community.

The Right to Be Notified

Residents in independent living communities have the right to be notified before staff enters their residence. Depending on the specific living situation, sometimes there will be very few times staff must enter a residence. Staff may enter daily to help with cleaning and cooking in other situations. 

Whether the visit is planned or unplanned, residents have the right to be notified before staff enters the residence.

The Right to Private Communication

Communicating with loved ones is critical for Sarasota assisted living and independent living. The privacy of that communication is just as critical. Residents have the right to send and receive private messages to friends, family, doctors, and others outside the community. 

This means that staff may not intercept mail, read emails, or listen to phone calls. It also means that the community cannot do things like only installing telephones or video calling equipment in public spaces.

The Right to Private Visits

Many independent living facilities provide ample opportunity for guests to visit residents. Sometimes visitors prefer to spend their time with residents in common areas, but sometimes, private visits may be more appropriate. 

All residents have the right to have privacy with their visitors. That means the community may not put any restrictions in place that may inhibit the ability of residents to meet privately with friends or family that come to visit them.

Independent Living in Sarasota

Sarasota is one of the best places in the country to consider independent living. The pleasant climate, friendly seniors, and ample opportunities to stay active create a wonderful environment. Rest assured you can enjoy your retirement when you decide on independent or assisted living in Sarasota.

One of the first steps to take if you’re considering a move to one of the assisted living facilities in Bradenton is a needs assessment. The facility will conduct a thorough assessment to learn each potential resident’s physical and cognitive needs. Transitioning into senior care can be both an exciting and stressful time. It is natural for seniors and their family members to have questions about the assessment process. 

What Happens During a Needs Assessment?

During an assessment, the facility’s team will ask questions and gather information in order to provide a personalized care plan for you or your loved one. It’s important to be as honest as possible to ensure all of your needs are met.

Each facility has its own process, but the goal of an assessment is to make certain a facility is prepared to meet a senior’s needs. For example, a person who may not fit the criteria for an independent living facility may be well cared for in an assisted living facility. 

Typically, three main areas are included in the assessment: mental condition, physical condition, and personal care needs.

Mental and Behavioral Health

For admittance, every resident must be able to comply with the facility’s regulations and policies. Assessors will examine the person’s cognitive health and determine whether they’re experiencing dementia symptoms or not. If the person is unable to express their needs or take direction from staff, the facility must be prepared to provide them with the care they need.

Physical Health

All health issues – past and present – should be disclosed during an assessment. Staff will ask about medications, vision or hearing problems, and incontinence issues. The physical assessment will note any particular needs of the resident, including mobility assistance, special diet, and housekeeping.

Personal Care

Expect to answer questions about bathing, grooming, toileting, and other personal care issues. All of the information gained during the assessment will be used to develop a complete treatment plan.

Bradenton Assisted Living: What Questions Should I Ask?

It is just as important for you to ask questions as to answer them. Some of the most common questions include:

• How often does staff check on the residents?
• How frequently are needs assessments given — what if a resident’s needs change?
• What skills sets and experience are staff equipped with?
• Who will be overseeing medications?
• Who will be in charge of executing your loved one’s care plan?

Answers to questions like these can give you confidence about whether a facility is prepared to meet your loved one’s needs or not. Consider writing down a list of questions before your assessment meeting, especially if your loved one requires some type of special support.

Needs assessments are crucial for the facility and the senior. They help family members decide which senior housing location is the best fit for their loved one, and they help facilities provide the best possible care for each of their residents. Though some of the assessment questions may seem personal, the process is designed to provide relevant and crucial information for the best care. 

When searching for the perfect assisted living facility, you want to make sure the community suits your needs. Different Bradenton assisted living communities offer various activities, group hobbies, and amenities.

There are three key amenities you should look for in assisted living facilities if you want to get the most out of your senior years. With these high-quality additions to your assisted living facility, you are sure to enjoy your time in the community. 

1. Health and Wellness Program

When you move into one of the assisted living facilities in Bradenton, having a high-quality wellness program will significantly benefit you. It is essential to stay active and healthy to enjoy independence and freedom with beneficial activities and events throughout your senior years. 

Physical health isn’t the only important measure of wellness, though. A great wellness program will also incorporate spiritual, mental, and social health. 

Some key things to look for in a good assisted living wellness program include:

• Community events
• Nutrition classes
• Fitness resources
• Mental health support
• Physical therapy
• Education 
• Medical support 

These aspects of wellness programs will keep you fulfilled and supported through your time in an assisted living community. You can hold onto your independence and health for a lot longer with a good wellness program to care for you. 

2. A Swimming Pool

Many residents overlook the benefits of swimming pools when searching for assisted living facilities in Bradenton. Pools are great for low-impact exercise and mobility support, and being in the water makes motion easier for those with joint pain or strained muscles easier. 

Bradenton weather calls for outdoor pools during most of the year. If you want to seek refuge from the heat, outdoor swimming pools are a must. Some assisted living facilities offer heated outdoor pools for the cooler months. 

Along with aquatic fitness benefits, swimming pools are relaxing. While you enjoy the gorgeous outdoor weather, you can lounge by the pool or take a dip to cool off. Pools are a luxury amenity that every assisted living resident should seek out. 

3. Housekeeping Services

Housekeeping services are essential in any assisted living community. You don’t have to worry about straining and lifting objects to clean your residence. When it comes to tidying up and performing mundane tasks, housekeeping services make life a lot easier. 

As you get older, tasks like laundry, dishes, and sweeping can become more complex. When searching for the perfect assisted living community, make sure to keep an eye out for housekeeping services. 

The Best Assisted Living Facilities in Bradenton

There are many luxurious Bradenton assisted living communities. Find all of these amenities and plenty more to keep you active, engaged, and healthy. 

The very best facilities care deeply for their residents and want you to have the best experience possible in assisted living. By researching and finding the amenities that will mean the most to you, you can enjoy your golden years in comfort!

Seniors are at a greater risk of developing the symptoms associated with the common cold and the flu. Their weaker immune systems make them more likely to fall ill at some point during cold and flu season. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to help prevent illness during this time of year. 

Independent Living in Sarasota and Staying Healthy

If you’re a senior who is maintaining independent living in Sarasota, you will want to take charge of your health to prevent the development of colds and cases of the flu. 

Consider how you can be more cautious this season to prevent illness in yourself and those around you. By following some of these important tips, you can minimize the risk of spreading bacteria and germs through your community and home. 

1. Wash Your Hands Often

In light of the recent coronavirus outbreaks, most people have become more conscious of how often they wash their hands. 

Seniors and their caregivers should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water to rid their skin of the germs and bacteria known to cause illness. When full access to a handwashing facility isn’t readily available, use a generous helping of hand sanitizer. 

2. Keep Your Hands Away from Your Face

Even if you are washing your hands often, you should refrain from putting your hands too close to your face. 

If you reside in independent living in Sarasota, you should keep even the cleanest hands away from your eyes, nose, and mouth. These areas are highly susceptible to allowing the bacteria to enter the body, which can ultimately cause illness.

3. Sanitize Hot Spots

Think about the items that are touched most frequently in Sarasota assisted living facilities. For many seniors, this means smartphones and other technology devices. 

Make sure to wipe devices down with disinfectant regularly to prevent bacteria from breeding on their surfaces. You can choose to use sanitizing wipes specifically designed for this purpose, but a towel damp with rubbing alcohol is equally effective. 

4. Eat a Balanced Diet

You are what you eat – or so the saying goes. During the cold and flu season, it is more important than ever to watch what you consume. 

Whether you are on a dining plan or are preparing your meals, try to eat more foods with a healthy dose of protein and vitamin C, such as the following: 

• Citrus fruits
• Kiwi
• Broccoli
• Bell peppers
• Lean meats or poultry
• Eggs

If you are unable to augment your diet with some of these key foods, consider taking a vitamin C supplement or drinking a protein shake to balance out your meals. 

5. Drink More Fluids

Drinking plenty of water and other healthy fluids can boost your immune system. Good hydration is also a key part of restoring balance to your body. 

Water is responsible for regulating your body temperature and eliminating toxins from your body. Make sure to drink up during the cold and flu season! 

Moving to a Bradenton assisted living facility doesn’t have to mean giving up the family traditions that are important to you, especially holiday traditions.

Even though many things are changing in the world today and giving up a home that you lived in for many years is difficult, the holidays can still be a time filled with love, laughter, and new memories.

1. Send Holiday Cards

Everyone loves getting mail, and holiday cards and letters are a special seasonal highlight. Sending cards to friends and family is a meaningful gesture that will help break the ice and open conversations.

For some people in assisted living facilities in Bradenton, the holidays are a lonely time. Their family members and closest friends may live miles away. Receiving a holiday card from a “neighbor” can mean so much at this time of year.

When you’re planning your card list, don’t forget the staff, especially the individuals who have been extra helpful during your transition to a new home.

2. Maintain Spiritual Observances

Most assisted living facilities in Bradenton to make it easy for residents to attend religious services throughout the year, as holiday observances are considered especially important for many people. 

Ask your staff about transportation services to your place of worship for holiday services. Your assisted living facility may also arrange non-denominational services on-site to accommodate those with mobility issues.

Participating in the religious traditions that have sustained you year after year will help you adjust to your new surroundings during the holiday season.

3. Help Deck the Halls

Busy staff can always use some extra hands to help decorate and prepare for special holiday events. If you can, help decorate a tree or take charge of lighting the menorah at your assisted living in Bradenton, Florida.

4. Participate in Holiday Events

No doubt your new assisted living facility will host various holiday events, from craft-making and caroling to gift exchange and more. 

Take part in these events as much as possible — even those based on traditions that are different from yours. If you play the piano, volunteer to play at the holiday sing-along. If you are a talented crafter, help organize a holiday-themed project for everyone to participate in.

5. Make a Request

If there is a unique tradition you would like to carry on while in assisted living, talk to the activity’s director or other staff members about it. Staff members are always looking for fun new ideas to enhance the services and amenities at their facility. You may help start a new tradition that brings smiles for years.

Enjoy the Holidays in Bradenton Assisted Living

Adjusting to a new living situation is difficult at any time and even more challenging during the holidays. If you’re planning a move to one of the assisted living facilities in Bradenton, your holiday can still be filled with the traditions that make this time of year special. 

Don’t hesitate to jump in and take part in the fun your facility is already planning. Adding one or two of your own traditions into the mix will enhance the season for everyone, including yourself.