When Mom or Dad needs the care you can’t provide, there are a number of options at your fingertips…from independent living and skilled nursing to assisted living and memory care.
If your loved one struggles with memory loss—but still enjoys independence—you’ve probably ruled out independent living options and skilled nursing.
While Mom doesn’t need a 1,200-square-foot cottage…she certainly isn’t ready for the hospital-like atmosphere of a nursing home.
Your remaining options?
Assisted living and memory care.
Assisted living and memory care both provide similar comforts, such as…
- Three meals a day.
- One-on-one support.
- Group activities.
- And more.
Given their overlap, these two senior care options may seem to be the same.
However, assisted living and memory care can have some important differences.
Keep on reading as we explain three important distinctions you should note.
1. Assisted Living and Memory Care Have Differences in Programming
Both assisted living and memory care will provide programming involving activities, social interaction, and life enrichment for your loved one.
However, it’s important to recognize that assisted living programming and memory care programming can differ in their goals.
An assisted living community may focus on maintaining fitness, exploring sights and sounds in the surrounding community, and other experiences.
In contrast, a memory care community tailors programming around the unique needs of dementia.
For instance, the right memory care community will avoid environments that cause confusion and offer activities involving the familiar (e.g., folding laundry).
2. Assisted Living and Memory Care Communities Can Have Different Building Designs
If Mom or Dad suffers from dementia, he or she may experience wandering and confusion.
Many times, an assisted living community won’t accommodate these challenges.
Large open spaces, a big dining area, and other community features suit an active older adult…who doesn’t struggle with significant memory loss.
In contrast, memory care communities can offer a design suited for Mom or Dad’s unique needs.
For instance, at The Grove, we use an ability-based neighborhood approach. Each neighborhood in our communities…
- Offers a smaller, familiar environment and is designed to hold 14 residents or less.
- Provides a natural wayfinding system so your loved one can stroll in a natural pattern, instead of wandering up and down a hall.
- Contains an open kitchen, small dining room, and living area…evoking a homelike environment.
3. Assisted Living and Memory Care Can Differ in Caregiver Training
Another dividing line between assisted living and memory care communities is caregiver training.
A number of memory care communities have team members trained to address the special challenges of dementia.
After all, it doesn’t require much training to help Mom brush her hair. But it does require skill to help Dad deal with sundowning, confusion, or the mood changes that come with Alzheimer’s.
At The Grove, we place a high priority on caregiver training.
Our memory care communities exceed the state requirement, providing five times more training for our caregivers from an NCCDP Certified Dementia Practitioner®.
Whether it’s caregiver training or community design, the reality is, there can be a big gap between assisted living and memory care communities.
If your loved one has dementia, it’s important to choose an environment that truly understands—and meets—your parent’s needs.
Discover a memory care community that does just that at The Grove.
When you explore our community, you’ll see our care in the little details. From the design of our neighborhoods to the family-style meals we provide, life at The Grove is purpose-built around your loved one’s needs.
Schedule a visit to The Grove Toledo, or plan a time to see The Grove Columbus, our newest memory care community…and discover what makes our memory care unique.
Simplifying the Transition to Memory Care: Downsizing with Grace and Purpose
As you consider the move to a memory care community, navigating the process of downsizing can feel overwhelming. Rest assured, you’re not alone on this journey. Our compassionate team here at The Grove is here to support you every step of the way. Let’s explore how you can approach downsizing with grace and purpose, making the transition smoother and more meaningful.
Embracing the Journey
The best care for Alzheimer’s patients and those in need of memory care support includes newfound opportunities for growth and connection. Embrace this transition as a chance for you or your loved one to simplify your surroundings and focus on what truly matters. Yes, the change may be uncomfortable but there is so much to look forward to.
Creating a Plan
Start by creating a personalized downsizing plan. Break the task into manageable steps and set aside dedicated time each day or week to sort through belongings. Start with one room and create Keep, Donate, and Get Rid Of piles. Remember to clearly label boxes. It may be best to begin with less emotionally charged areas and gradually move on to sentimental items.
Discerning What Matters Most
View downsizing as a process of discernment rather than deprivation. Consider what possessions, whether it’s a favorite cozy sweater or a treasured piece of wall art, bring comfort, utility, or a sense of connection. Choose items that serve both practical and sentimental purposes, keeping in mind the space constraints and lifestyle offered by your new home. Daily Caring provides specific tips for seniors downsizing to settings like a memory care community. It’s like going to college or moving away from home – take what you need and what will serve you best in this new chapter.
Preserving Memories
As you declutter, take the time to reminisce and share stories with loved ones. Preserve the essence of significant moments even as you simplify your physical surroundings. Photographs, letters, and keepsakes can be cherished in memory books or digitized for easy access.
Seeking Support
Don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family members, or professional organizers if needed. Surround yourself with positivity and encouragement, celebrating each small victory along the way. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress and peace of mind.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Approach downsizing with confidence and purpose, knowing that you’re paving the way for a brighter, more fulfilling future in a new environment. Embrace the opportunity to experience joy, living life on your terms and forming blossoming connections that await you in our memory care community.
If you have any questions or concerns as you navigate Alzheimer’s or dementia care services for your loved one, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our memory care team at The Grove is here to listen, support, and guide you through this journey with empathy and understanding.
Feel free to get in touch by scheduling a tour today! Reach out to us here.
Navigating the Conversation: Discussing Senior Living After the Holidays
The holiday season is a time for joy, reflection, and spending precious moments with loved ones. However, it can also be a period when we notice changes in the health and well-being of our family members, especially as they age. If you’ve spent the holidays with a loved one and observed signs that they may need extra memory care support or can no longer live independently at home, initiating a conversation about moving into a memory care community is a delicate but crucial step.
Here are some thoughtful tips on how to approach this conversation with empathy, respect, and understanding:
1. Choose the Right Time and Place: Begin the conversation in a quiet and comfortable environment where you can talk privately without distractions. Ensure there is enough time for an open and honest discussion, avoiding busy or stressful periods.
2. Express Your Concerns with Love: Start the conversation by expressing your love and concern for their well-being. Use “I” statements to share your observations and feelings, emphasizing that your intention is to ensure their safety and happiness.
Example: “I’ve noticed that things seem a bit challenging for you at home, and I’m genuinely concerned about your well-being. I want to make sure you have the support you need to be comfortable and happy.”
3. Focus on Specific Observations: Share specific instances or observations from the holiday season that raised your concern. Be gentle and avoid sounding accusatory. This helps your loved one understand that your suggestion is based on genuine observations rather than assumptions.
Example: “During the holidays, I noticed you struggled with [specific tasks]. It made me realize that you might benefit from additional support and assistance.”
4. Acknowledge Their Feelings: Recognize that this is a sensitive topic, and your loved one may have mixed emotions about the idea of moving into a memory care community. Allow them to express their feelings and validate their concerns without dismissing them.
Example: “I understand that this might be a difficult topic, and I want to hear how you feel about it. Your emotions are important, and I’m here to support you.”
5. Present Senior Living Options Positively: Research senior living communities in advance and highlight the positive aspects of genuine wellbeing. Emphasize the social opportunities, professional care that you might not be able to give or can’t do any more, potential improvements in your relationship with them after going from a care giver to loved one again, and safety measures these communities offer. Discuss how such a move can enhance their quality of life.
Example: “I’ve looked into some senior living communities, and they have fantastic amenities and activities that I think you would enjoy. It could be an opportunity to make new friends and receive the care you need.”
6. Involve Them in the Decision-Making Process: Make your loved one an active participant in the decision-making process. Discuss the available options together, consider their preferences, and address any concerns they may have.
Example: “I want us to explore these options together. Your input is crucial, and we can work together to find the best solution that ensures your comfort and happiness.”
Initiating a conversation about moving into a memory care community can be challenging, but it’s an essential step toward ensuring the well-being of your loved one. Approach the discussion with empathy, patience, and a commitment to finding the best solution for their unique needs. By involving them in the decision-making process and focusing on the positive aspects of senior living, you can help ease the transition and create a plan that prioritizes their safety and happiness.
Food for Thought: Our Approach to Dining at The Grove
In honor of National Alzheimer’s Disease Month, The Grove spotlights a core aspect of our memory care program– the specially designed menu. With a dedicated focus on active senior living lifestyles, we acknowledge the pivotal role that food choices play in the lives of our residents.
An essential aspect of daily life, food takes center stage, growing in significance as we age and becoming increasingly vital for our overall health. Studies have shown strong links between diet and its potential to support memory.
Mealtime at The Grove is a delicious blend of nutritious food options and opportunities to bring our residents joy through family-style dining. Here, food supports a greater mission to deliver genuine care that enhances the quality of life for all seniors we serve.
Brain-Boosting Nutrients
The link between healthy eating and cognitive function is well-established in the memory care field. Research consistently highlights the impact of nutrients on reinforcing cognitive abilities and slowing decline.
One example is the MIND Diet, a brain-healthy diet developed by experts at Harvard University. The diet has been shown to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The MIND Diet is based on the Mediterranean Diet and the DASH Diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension).
Essential features of this diet include:
Another study by Harvard Health recommends five key foods that are linked to brainpower and healthy heart and blood vessels:
The Grove team emphasizes similar nutritionally dense superfoods for residents’ overall health and well-being. View a sample menu here.
Enhancing Accessibility
For memory care residents, ensuring meal accessibility is crucial. Each of our communities has its own Executive Chef. Meals are served three times daily in our community dining room, with wide-ranging options to suit individual tastes.
We also apply practical adjustments to our residents’ cuisine, like offering boneless chicken and bite-sized sandwiches, making food finger-friendly and easy to consume.
Color is another focus area for our team, as Alzheimer’s can change perceptions of color. For this reason, mealtimes feature red plates, backed by research findings on the impact of color on eating habits.
Likewise, staff carefully monitors residents’ eating habits, preferences and needs. We work to make enjoyable food that is nutritious and appealing.
Community & Wellbeing
We encourage our residents to savor every moment. This includes mealtimes, which we spotlight as daily highlights.
Aligned in many ways with the Alzheimer’s Association’s recommendations for dining, our evidence-based approach aims to provide the highest quality of life and independence possible. Family-style dining for every meal fosters a social environment where residents enjoy nourishing meals alongside meaningful interactions.
Additionally, the team regularly hosts themed dining events promoting active senior living, such as weekly baking therapy and cooking classes. Activities like these allow residents to experience social engagement, practice fine motor skills and improve cognitive function while making brain-healthy treats.
Life and Dining at The Grove
At The Grove, mealtime is just one example of our commitment to translating wellness into all aspects of daily life. By crafting a dining experience that meets the needs and preferences of our residents, we aim to spark joy in every bite and make meals moments of shared community.
In memory care, details matter. Upon arrival, we always ask families to complete a Past to Present form, where we learn about their loved one’s history, careers, cherished activities and preferences. This information guides the memory care team in creating curated care experiences, known as Daily Rhythms, for all residents.
If you are looking for memory care that values a genuine home, personalized care and tasty food choices for your loved one, The Grove might be a great fit. We invite you to contact us here to learn more.
Mental Health Recommendations from AARP
At The Grove, we prioritize genuine wellness. Genuine wellness isn’t solely tied to physical health. It entails social, emotional, and financial health, all of which are cornerstones for the services we offer our residents. Mental health is significantly interconnected with physical health, and being part of a supportive community can greatly relieve stress and combat isolation.
Most people would agree that improved well-being is a desirable goal. Fortunately, there are some ways you can promote well-being for yourself and your loved ones. For practical tips on how to enhance your mental health, check out this AARP article here.
The Grove Participates in Toledo Regional Walk to End Alzheimer’s
This past Saturday, The Grove and Oakleaf Village of Sylvania raised the roof in support of the Alzheimer’s Association. Ongoing efforts throughout the year culminated at the Toledo Regional Walk to End Alzheimer’s on October 14. Oakleaf Village staff and family members braved the cold and rainy weather to exceed our $2,000 fundraising goal.
In total, The Grove raised $2,957.94!
The Grove and Oakleaf Village staff with their families.
Ongoing Fundraising Efforts
As a memory care community, The Grove at Oakleaf Village specializes in care for seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Many of our Toledo senior living residents and their families have firsthand experience with this disease. The challenges of living with Alzheimer’s go far beyond The Grove’s walls – staggering statistics reveal that 1 in 3 seniors is impacted by Alzheimer’s or another dementia. This is a disease affecting over 6 million Americans.
Leading up to this weekend, fundraising efforts were a labor of love. Just a few months ago, The Grove hosted a Campus Walk to End Alzheimer’s for senior living residents. The event included various activities and walks for families and friends to enjoy with their loved ones. The Alzheimer’s Association joined us to provide the official walk arch and resources. We also had a selection of delicious food trucks (Jikoni Toledo, Toledo Let’s Eat, The Purple Penguin Sweet Treats, Tocayo’s Tacos), entertainment from John Pickle, a photo booth from Funkytown Fotobooth, face-painting, balloon animals, a bake sale and craft sale.
At the end of the event, the three winners of our Duct Tape Fundraiser and the management team were duct-taped to a wall. Residents enjoyed donating $1 to pie their favorite staff.
We are proud of our Grove and Oakleaf teams’ commitment to making a difference and always showing genuine care for our residents.
Thank you to all the staff, senior living residents and family members who showed up to elevate such a worthy cause!
The Grove and Oakleaf Village of Sylvania Host Walk to End Alzheimer’s
In August, Oakleaf Village of Sylvania and The Grove partnered with the Alzheimer’s Association to host a Walk to End Alzheimer’s event for residents, families, associates and the general public.
Our goal for this event was to raise awareness and funds for vital Alzheimer’s research initiatives and programs.
Fundraising efforts have been ongoing throughout the year, and by the end of the big day, our Oakleaf Team raised $2,384.25.
We are immensely proud of our associates and residents for making their voices heard and supporting a cause that affects 1 in 3 seniors. This cause is near and dear to our hearts. The Grove specializes in care for seniors with dementia and Alzheimer’s, and many of our senior living residents and their families have firsthand experience with this disease.
In hosting this event, we quite literally brought the walk to our assisted living and memory care residents, as many cannot participate in the regional Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Downtown Toledo.
What resulted was a day of great fun, excitement and love for our campus family. Our event included an accessible shorter walk, as well as a longer walk across campus for families and friends to walk with their loved ones. Karen Moore from the Alzheimer’s Association joined us to provide the official walk arch and helpful information. We also had a host of delicious food trucks (Jikoni Toledo, Toledo Let’s Eat, The Purple Penguin Sweet Treats, Tocayo’s Tacos), entertainment from John Pickle, a photo booth from Funkytown Fotobooth, face-painting, balloon animals, a bake sale and craft sale.
At the end of the event, the three winners of our Duct Tape Fundraiser and the management team were duct-taped to a wall. Residents enjoyed donating $1 to “pie” their favorite staff.
We are so proud of our Grove and Oakleaf families who supported this walk and our entire team for hosting an incredible event.
We invite anyone interested to join our next fundraiser and walk with us on Saturday, October 14th or donate to the cause.
To see more photos from the Alzheimer’s Walk and to follow our latest events, head to our Facebook page here.
Wallick’s Senior Living Campus Voted Best in Toledo
Wallick’s Senior Living Campus Voted Best in Toledo
We are thrilled to announce that our senior living campus in Sylvania has achieved an outstanding trifecta sweep in Mature Living News’ annual Reader’s Choice Awards!
Readers of MLiving are the judges for these awards, voting for the best of the Toledo, OH, area across various local categories.
You can find our communities featured alongside the other winners here.
It’s because of our residents, families and amazing Sylvania Team that our communities are incredible places to live and work. Thank you all for your support!
3 Qualities to Look For in Dementia Caregivers
Finding the appropriate care for a family member with dementia isn’t a decision to take lightly.
While navigating treatment and care for your loved one with dementia, there are various factors to consider, such as which…
When it comes to the last point, there are various qualities to look for and analyze when selecting caregivers for your loved one.
Whether you’re exploring various memory care communities or planning to hire an at-home caregiver, read on to discover three important qualities to look for in dementia caregivers.
1. Dementia Caregivers with Dementia-Specific Training
Caring for a person with dementia requires knowledge beyond general caregiving practices.
Therefore, when it comes to finding the right dementia caregiver, it’s important to find people who have dementia-specific training.
For example, providers should have the training to…
Additionally, as the Alzheimer’s Association describes, “studies show staff trained specifically in dementia care are able to provide better quality of life for residents and have increased confidence, productivity and job satisfaction.”
At The Grove, our caregivers must complete 40 hours of onboarding in their first week, including the CARES® online dementia training and the essentiALZ® online certification exam.
In contrast, the average home health worker lacks specific training for dementia patients as we’ve explained in our post “5 Benefits of Making the Move to a Memory Care Community.”
2. Dementia Caregivers with a Personal Knowledge of Your Loved One
A one-size-fits-all method of care is not helpful for individuals with dementia because symptoms and needs can vary from person to person.
Therefore, it’s important for your loved one’s caregiver to possess personal knowledge of your loved one.
From there, the dementia caregiver can provide the feelings of safety and happiness your loved one needs to continue to live a rewarding life, despite his or her dementia diagnosis.
Unfortunately, certain memory care communities and at-home caregivers continue to use the one-size-fits-all approach in their caregiving practice.
On the other hand, at The Grove communities, our practitioners utilize a person-centered care methodology.
This means that our care providers learn about our residents’ unique stories and needs, and provide care that meets these needs and preferences.
Whether our caregivers play Mom’s favorite song for her birthday or invite Dad and his green thumb to help in the garden, we ensure that our residents’ personal stories are woven into the fabric of daily life in our community.
Our caregivers are passionate about surrounding our residents with these preferences and favorite things that will give them the quality of life they deserve.
3. A Group of Dementia Caregivers with 24/7 Availability for Care Needs
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Dementia is an ever-present disease. In the same sense, your loved one should have access to dementia caregivers at all times.
Whether assisting with practices of personal hygiene in the morning, providing social engagement and accompaniment at mealtime, or preparing your loved one for sleep, caregivers are necessary at various points throughout the day and night.
At The Grove at Oakleaf Village, our caregivers are on-hand 24/7 to meet resident needs. This way, residents and their families can rest easy, knowing help is just a step away at all times.
See our caregivers in action–schedule a visit to The Grove Toledo in Toledo, Ohio, or make a plan to check out The Grove Columbus—opening soon in the north Columbus area.
Navigating the Later Stages of Early Onset Alzheimer’s for Your Loved One
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When a loved one receives a diagnosis for early onset Alzheimer’s, the future may suddenly feel like a daunting and unknown territory.
However, with knowledge of what’s to come, your family can feel a greater sense of ease and confidence in moving forward.
Although your loved one’s healthcare providers may brief you on what you’ll experience during the initial stages of such a diagnosis, they may not cover the later stages of early onset Alzheimer’s.
Consider this post as a helpful overview for what you can expect and how to plan for the later stages of the disease.
Becoming aware of these stages will help you connect your loved one to quality care for his or her needs.
What Is Early Onset Alzheimer’s?
Before diving into details regarding the later stages of early onset Alzheimer’s, let’s get clear on what the disease is.
Early onset Alzheimer’s, also referred to as younger onset Alzheimer’s, affects individuals under age 65.
Typically, these individuals are in their 40s and 50s. They often have careers, they may have children, and they may potentially be caregivers themselves.
Less common than late onset Alzheimer’s, early onset Alzheimer’s, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, currently affects 200,000 people in the United States.
As the Alzheimer’s Society describes, the earliest symptoms of early onset Alzheimer’s are… [Link to:
Although dementia is a progressive disease and worsens over time, the time it takes to progress varies depending on the individual.
For some people, Alzheimer’s progresses rapidly, while it takes years to reach an advanced stage for others.
When it comes to determining which stage your loved one is in, it’s important to know what indicators to watch for. Which brings us to our next point…
Signs Early Onset Alzheimer’s Has Progressed
While symptoms can vary from individual to individual, there is a common set of signs of moderate or severe dementia.
As the Alzheimer’s Association explains, moderate Alzheimer’s is typically characterized by…
If your loved one is in the last/severe stages of early onset dementia, you may notice symptoms such as…
(Source)
Once you’ve identified that your loved one has reached these moderate or severe stages of early onset Alzheimer’s, it’s important to connect him or her with the necessary care.
When to Make the Move to a Memory Care Community
As your loved one’s dementia progresses, your priority is ensuring that he or she has the necessary care—as well as a safe setting that provides him or her with the resources to thrive.
These things can be provided by memory care communities.
From trained caregivers to healthy social interaction with other residents and nutritious, brain-healthy meals to professional medication management, these communities are often the best option for individuals with early onset Alzheimer’s.
Waiting too long to make the move raises your loved one’s risks for injury, depression, and an overall decrease in quality of life.
At The Grove at Oakleaf Village, we provide a vibrant, homelike environment for individuals with early onset and late onset Alzheimer’s.
We’re more than happy to answer any questions you have regarding quality care for your loved one.
Contact one of The Grove communities today to learn more about our memory care offerings.
What Is the Difference between Assisted Living and Memory Care?
When Mom or Dad needs the care you can’t provide, there are a number of options at your fingertips…from independent living and skilled nursing to assisted living and memory care.
If your loved one struggles with memory loss—but still enjoys independence—you’ve probably ruled out independent living options and skilled nursing.
While Mom doesn’t need a 1,200-square-foot cottage…she certainly isn’t ready for the hospital-like atmosphere of a nursing home.
Your remaining options?
Assisted living and memory care.
Assisted living and memory care both provide similar comforts, such as…
Given their overlap, these two senior care options may seem to be the same.
However, assisted living and memory care can have some important differences.
Keep on reading as we explain three important distinctions you should note.
1. Assisted Living and Memory Care Have Differences in Programming
Both assisted living and memory care will provide programming involving activities, social interaction, and life enrichment for your loved one.
However, it’s important to recognize that assisted living programming and memory care programming can differ in their goals.
An assisted living community may focus on maintaining fitness, exploring sights and sounds in the surrounding community, and other experiences.
In contrast, a memory care community tailors programming around the unique needs of dementia.
For instance, the right memory care community will avoid environments that cause confusion and offer activities involving the familiar (e.g., folding laundry).
2. Assisted Living and Memory Care Communities Can Have Different Building Designs
If Mom or Dad suffers from dementia, he or she may experience wandering and confusion.
Many times, an assisted living community won’t accommodate these challenges.
Large open spaces, a big dining area, and other community features suit an active older adult…who doesn’t struggle with significant memory loss.
In contrast, memory care communities can offer a design suited for Mom or Dad’s unique needs.
For instance, at The Grove, we use an ability-based neighborhood approach. Each neighborhood in our communities…
3. Assisted Living and Memory Care Can Differ in Caregiver Training
Another dividing line between assisted living and memory care communities is caregiver training.
A number of memory care communities have team members trained to address the special challenges of dementia.
After all, it doesn’t require much training to help Mom brush her hair. But it does require skill to help Dad deal with sundowning, confusion, or the mood changes that come with Alzheimer’s.
At The Grove, we place a high priority on caregiver training.
Our memory care communities exceed the state requirement, providing five times more training for our caregivers from an NCCDP Certified Dementia Practitioner®.
Whether it’s caregiver training or community design, the reality is, there can be a big gap between assisted living and memory care communities.
If your loved one has dementia, it’s important to choose an environment that truly understands—and meets—your parent’s needs.
Discover a memory care community that does just that at The Grove.
When you explore our community, you’ll see our care in the little details. From the design of our neighborhoods to the family-style meals we provide, life at The Grove is purpose-built around your loved one’s needs.
Schedule a visit to The Grove Toledo, or plan a time to see The Grove Columbus, our newest memory care community…and discover what makes our memory care unique.