Kerianne has provided CareOne written consent to share this story.

Managing post-hospital rehabilitation and memory care needs at the same time is no easy feat—but with a personalized approach and compassionate care team, patients can experience remarkable results. 

When buying her house, Kerianne did so with the intention to care for her aging parents at home. She renovated a suite in her house, preparing to welcome them whenever the time would come. Years later, when her mother fell ill, her parents moved in with Kerianne and her family. 

But when Kerianne’s parents moved in, she saw something she didn’t expect: Her father started showing signs of dementia. The signs she saw were not noticeable from her interactions with him when he lived outside of her home.  

Kerianne’s father was known for his intellect and ambition, having reinvented his career throughout his life. He was celebrated for his ability to finish the Wall Street Journal crossword in 30 minutes. But little by little, his abilities started slipping — and as Kerianne’s mother’s condition was getting worse, her father’s dementia was progressing. "Dementia progresses like tiny paper cuts all the time — it’s almost too late when you realize there’s a problem," she said.

“Dementia progresses like tiny little paper cuts all the time — it’s almost too late when you realize there’s a problem.”

Sadly, Kerianne’s mother passed, which also marked a point in time when her father’s condition progressed beyond a manageable level. As with many people with dementia, Kerianne’s father was often confused and started to behave in ways that are typical for those with progressing dementia. During the day, Kerianne placed him in a daily care program. When he would come home in the evening, he would wander, requiring Kerianne to follow him closely to keep him safe. Eventually, Kerianne’s father fell and fractured his hip, requiring emergency surgery and a stay in hospital. 

While the hospital took care of his immediate treatment, Kerianne knew she needed to plan for his post-hospital rehabilitation — one that could support her father’s recovery from injury but also provide comprehensive dementia care. Having worked in a skilled nursing facility in the past, Kerianne was concerned that her father would need an extra layer of care to better support his healing due to his dementia. She was looking for a place that would provide around-the-clock rehabilitative support as well as specialized memory care. 

Finding the Right Level of Care 

While the hip fracture was the primary factor in Kerianne’s decision to transition him to a care facility, there were other life factors at play. As her father’s sole caregiver, Kerianne was finding it increasingly difficult to provide the level of support he needed as his dementia progressed. While Kerianne was navigating these changes, another family member of hers had fallen ill and she was also caring for her teenage children. As part of the sandwich generation, Kerianne found herself in a difficult position that is all too common: She was experiencing burnout from taking care of her aging parents, while also looking after and providing for children who have their own socio-emotional needs. 

This is when Kerianne decided to contact Alyson Mulryne, Senior Administrator at Harmony Village at CareOne Jackson. Harmony Village is a specialized memory care community that provides 24/7 care for individuals with dementia. Alyson worked with Kerianne to put special arrangements in place, such as occupational therapy (OT), physical therapy (PT), and on-site nursing staff specializing in dementia, to ensure the right level of care for Kerianne’s father. 

Providing Individualized Care  

When Kerianne’s father first arrived at Harmony Village at CareOne Jackson, he was unable to walk and required significant support. Fortunately Harmony Village at CareOne Jackson has an in-house therapy team that includes both OT and PT. Alyson worked closely with Kerianne to ensure the right support was in place for his healing. When Kerianne wasn’t visiting her father, she would be on the phone with his care team to check on his progress. Starting with almost daily check-ins, which eventually progressed to weekly, Kerianne was involved in every decision for her father’s post-hospital rehabilitation and memory care. “Our frequent communication helped us build trust with Kerianne and her family and we believe it helped her know that we were all in," said Alyson.

"Today, a visit to her father is simply a visit where Kerianne and her father can enjoy themselves."

At Harmony Village, residents live in distinct neighborhoods based on their degree of memory loss, from mild to moderate and then severe. This layout improves social interaction and engagement in suitable activities, fostering a stronger sense of belonging and improving overall care outcomes.  In this case, Harmony Village at CareOne Jackson was able to use the neighborhood system in reverse order to aid his recovery.  

Due to his injury, Kerianne’s father started in the neighborhood with the highest care needs. As his physical condition improved, Kerianne’s father was eventually able to move out of the severe neighborhood to the moderate, and now, based on his progress, he is living with others who have mild cognitive impairment. Hip fractures, particularly in individuals with dementia, can often be debilitating, but in this case, his care team helped him get back on his feet. According to Harmony Village at CareOne's Jackson's Physical Therapist, Kyle Negron, "He came to us in a wheelchair, and we helped him rehabilitate to the point where he could walk up to 500 feet without assistance or a device."

"We now have to remind him to sit down and take rests!"

Kerianne’s father’s success story serves as a powerful reminder for those assessing their senior care options: Individualized, personalized care can help people reach their full recovery potential and significantly improve their overall quality of life. Harmony Village designs care plans tailored to the cognitive and physical needs of each resident. This approach extends beyond treating the individual, care teams at Harmony Village provide support for the entire family. Family plays a particularly crucial role in memory care as family members often have to be the advocate and voice for their loved one with dementia. Harmony Village at CareOne Jackson's Dementia Care Specialist, Casey Gordon stresses the importance of family support:

“You have to support the family along with the resident, because they are the ones placing their trust in us.”

Harmony Village at Jackson helped lift Kerianne's burden of caregiving. Now, Kerianne is often seen visiting the community, dancing and singing with her father. “I am so grateful to the care team at Harmony Village," she said. "They have helped improve not only my father’s quality of life, but also mine and my family’s. It is a relief to know that he is thriving when we’re not there, and it’s a treat seeing him so happy at all our visits. "

"We breathe easier knowing that he is well cared for every day.”

For more information about Harmony Village at CareOne Jackson, contact us or schedule a tour.  

The post From Healing to Hope: A Post-Hospital Rehabilitation Success Story appeared first on CareOne.

Facing the Reality of a Dementia Diagnosis 

Dealing with a dementia diagnosis is difficult for everyone involved. People who receive a diagnosis might feel confused, distressed, or even deny the condition of their memory loss altogether. Meanwhile, their families typically experience feelings of sadness, worry and grief that their loved ones with dementia are changing before their eyes. 

One of the most challenging aspects of dementia is communication. Communication styles and habits that worked with a loved one before will require adjustments based on their stage of their dementia. In some cases, people with dementia might be in denial about their condition, saying their forgetfulness was a “one-time incident” and they don’t need help. Others with dementia might feel more irritable or ask for more support.  

While families try to make sense of these changes, they’re processing their own heavy emotions, and they often don’t know the right thing to say or do. It’s common for memory care specialists to hear families say their loved one with dementia has “lost their mind,” “can’t do anything” — or worse — that “they’ve gone crazy.” While well intentioned, some families might use infantilizing language toward their loved one with dementia, which only makes the individual feel worse.  

To ease some of the challenges that come with caregiving for a loved one with dementia, positive language is key. With the right approach to communication, dementia can be managed effectively at all levels and you can help improve your loved one’s overall quality of life. 

Here are some simple language shifts and other tips on how to communicate with someone with dementia.

Say This, Not That

Don’t say: “Did you remember to take your medication?”
What to say instead: “I see you didn’t take your medication. How can I help you?”
Why it matters: Many people with dementia often feel embarrassed when they’ve realized they’ve forgotten something or someone. By remaining patient and calmly stating your point, you can help your loved one feel more supported and at ease.

Don’t say: “You can’t do that by yourself”
What to say instead: “I can help you with that”
Why it matters: People with dementia are often underestimated by their abilities. Offering help instead of taking over their task shows that you respect their abilities while also providing them with the support they need.

Don’t say: “I will do it”
What to say instead: “I will do it with you” or “Can I do this with you?”
Why it matters: Those with dementia often struggle with losing their independence and want to know that they have a say in the decisions made about their lives. This simple language signals just that. You’re honoring their independence and dignity while also offering support.

Don’t say: “Calm down”
What to say instead: “I know this must be hard for you"
Why it matters: It’s critical to use positive language to express concerns as well as give your loved one time to process their situation. This language shift shows that you are validating your loved one’s feelings and experience.

Don’t say: “Your (loved one) died”
What to say instead: “Can you tell me about (their loved one)?”
Why it matters: Caregivers refer to this language shift as therapeutic fibbing. People with dementia, especially those in advanced stages, have a harder time processing loss. In many cases, it is more beneficial for the person with dementia to reminisce about positive memories from their past rather than try to understand their current reality.

Don’t say: “Hey, sweetie!”
What to say instead: “Hey, (real name)!”
Why it matters: Unless your loved one gives you consent, using a nickname without their permission can make some people with dementia feel belittled. Saying their real name is a sign of respect.

Don’t say: “You need to wear a diaper” 
What to say instead: “I have some protective undergarments for you”
Why it matters: Words like “diapers” and “bibs” are infantilizing. Making simple language changes protects the dignity of a person with dementia. 

Don’t say: “You seem under the weather”
What to say instead: “How are you feeling?”
Why it matters: Idioms and slang words can be extremely difficult for people with dementia to follow. Using clear, simple language is essential to ensuring your loved one understands what you are saying. 

Communication Beyond Words

It is not just what you say to someone with dementia, but how you say it. Keep these nonverbal communication tips in mind when talking to someone with dementia: 

• Smile: Positive, warm facial expressions can help people with dementia feel more comfortable and safer. 

• Tone Matters: Whatever you say, speak softly, especially when your loved one with dementia feels more irritable. Do not raise your voice as it can make matters worse. 

• Use Demonstration Cues: Expressive hand gestures and body language can help with signaling common tasks like eating, drinking, walking and sitting. 

• Lean on Photo Albums: Pictures can be a great way to communicate with a loved one with dementia, as they help people reminisce about some of their most positive memories. 

• Consider Signage: Consider signage for communicating with someone with dementia at a later stage, as the symbols can be easier for them to process information. 

The Power of Positive Language in People with Dementia 

Like any other progression of a disease, dementia presents new challenges at every stage. As a caregiver, it’s important to meet your loved one where they are in their journey. By understanding how to communicate with someone with dementia, you can minimize frustration for both you and your loved one and help reduce the dementia stigma. Most importantly, you can improve your loved one’s overall quality of life and well-being.  

Want to save our top tips?

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The post How to Communicate with Someone with Dementia appeared first on CareOne.

When a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, the person closest to them often takes on greater responsibilities. They step into a new role as a caregiver. As the disease progresses, those with dementia lose the ability to perform activities of daily living. They also may engage in behaviors that put themselves or others at risk. As a result, their spouses, children and friends can feel overwhelmed by the physical and emotional needs of their loved one with dementia. At CareOne, our priority is to relieve caregivers of the more challenging aspects of their role. We want caregivers to bring their best selves in their relationship with their loved ones.

People affected by memory loss conditions can find hope and purpose even through the progression of the condition and new challenges in their relationship. One of our star caregivers, Donna, shared her experience working with our staff to deliver personalized care to her husband at CareOne Harmony Village.

Donna’s Story

Donna spent most of her life as an educator, pursuing several degrees while working to enrich the lives of others. She began searching for a life partner on eHarmony. One day, when she had called the platform to cancel her membership, she received a call from her future husband Karl (pseudonym), asking to meet. Donna was instantly captivated by his athleticism and love for music. Soon after, she and Karl had chosen their wedding song and were married at the ages of 61 and 70, respectively.

The CareOne/Caregiver Relationship

CareOne Dementia Care Specialist, Emily Baratta, has worked with Donna and Karl over the past year. She counsels Donna on how to be a supportive and patient partner as Karl loses cognitive functioning and ability to complete activities of daily living. Using Teepa Snow's positive care approach, Emily develops care plans based on Karl’s personal background and specific needs. While Karl has significant memory loss and is unable to hold conversations, he and Donna are equipped with the resources that allow him to live a meaningful and purposeful life.

Here’s how Emily works with Donna to understand Karl’s needs through the progression of his dementia:

Processing Personality Changes

Due to dramatic changes occurring in the brain of a person with dementia, many parts of their personality can change while other existing traits may intensify.

Sometimes, these changes are rapid. Karl always had a rigid, stubborn side, liking things done exactly the way he wanted. Donna noticed his cognitive decline as he became increasingly irritable. She also observed aggressive episodes that were out of character for him. This shift was exacerbated by the pressures of lockdown restrictions during the pandemic. At the time, Donna felt very confused with little answers as to what these changes would mean for Karl moving forward.

After consulting medical professionals, Donna was connected with CareOne to provide 24/7 management of Karl’s aggressive and challenging behaviors. As these behaviors can be the most concerning symptoms of dementia, it’s important that caregivers feel safe knowing that their loved one is being watched with a close eye. The team also works to help caregivers understand the triggers of these behaviors and provide strategies to mitigate them.

Navigating a New Relationship Dynamic

Another stark change for caregivers is the shift in the relationship dynamic. The caregiver and their loved one go from equals taking care of one another to resembling more of a parent-child relationship. As the disease progresses, people with dementia often lose the ability to complete tasks like eating, dressing, medication and hygiene management. Many may experience greater mobility issues and general confusion that prohibits them from taking care of themselves.

Even with significant memory loss, Karl recognizes that Donna is his partner. He desires her care and undivided attention. Karl has needs that he could once execute or communicate on his own but no longer can. This shift adds a level of complexity for caregivers like Donna as they can feel overwhelmed by the ongoing physical and emotional responsibilities of caring for someone with memory impairments.

Together, Donna and Emily consistently touch base to share information about Karl’s current and past behavioral patterns. Consistent dialogue between Harmony Village’s dementia care specialists and caregivers is important to better understand the more complex emotional needs of dementia residents and how CareOne staff can best meet them in their living environment. Emily teaches caregivers like Donna to practice patience and clear communication during their visits.

Teaching New (and Old) Ways of Communicating

Even as dementia progresses, many aspects of a person’s psyche and personality remain the same. Karl always loved music and used to sing in bands in his younger days. From the beginning of Donna and Karl’s relationship, music was central to how they connected with one another.

Despite Karl’s limited communication skills, singing still comes naturally for him. While he can't spin Donna and dance like he used to, he is able to communicate his needs through music. As a central part of Karl’s care, Emily and the Harmony Village team use music to guide him. This includes supporting his daily routine and facilitating musical activities during Donna’s visits.

It’s also not uncommon that multilingual people will revert to their native language as their disease progresses. Karl was born in Germany and lived there through most of his young adult life. To look for new ways to connect with Karl, Donna began taking German classes four years ago. This development has significantly enhanced their relationship and helps Donna prepare for the possibility of Karl forgetting English. Karl lights up when Donna speaks to him in German during their visits; it has brought them closer together.

Employing various best-in-practice behavioral approaches, CareOne identifies ways to help caregivers reconnect with their loved ones. Currently, Donna and Emily are organizing a vow renewal onsite for Donna and Karl with German incorporated into their ceremony.

Memory care specialists foster environments that are conducive to the evolving needs of those with memory care needs, while helping caregivers reconnect with their loved ones and bringing them closer together.

Find a CareOne Harmony Village facility near you for more information about our memory care services.

About Harmony Village

Harmony Village is CareOne’s assisted living community expertly designed for residents with memory impairments. The team provides specialized care to help individuals living with memory impairments maintain the highest possible quality of life. The caregiver plays a key role in Harmony Village’s work as dementia specialists and staff partner with them to gain knowledge of their loved one’s background and personality which informs their approach to care.

The post Inside Their Mind: Understanding the Evolving Needs of Your Loved One with Dementia appeared first on CareOne.

Amid extreme weather warnings affecting most of the country, seniors must protect themselves from the dangers of excessive heat. Heatwaves can be particularly hazardous for older adults, as they may be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses due to existing medical conditions and/or prescription medicines they take that may impact temperature regulation. To ensure the well-being of seniors during hot weather, here are six essential tips for seniors to stay safe in a heatwave.

Stay Hydrated

One of the most crucial tips to help seniors stay safe in a heatwave is ensuring they are hydrated. Seniors should consistently drink water and liquids containing electrolytes throughout the day, even if they don’t necessarily feel thirsty. Dehydration can lead to serious health issues, including heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Encourage them to carry a water bottle and set reminders to drink regularly. It is also advisable to limit the consumption of caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, which can contribute to dehydration.

Seek Air Conditioning

Air conditioning is extremely helpful for keeping seniors cool and comfortable during a heatwave. If they don’t have air conditioning at home, advise them to spend time in places that do, such as shopping malls, supermarkets, or public libraries. During peak heat hours — usually between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. — recommend staying indoors in cool, air-conditioned spaces. If they prefer to remain at home, suggest using fans and keeping windows and curtains closed during the hottest part of the day to keep indoor temperatures down.

Dress Appropriately

Proper clothing choices can make a significant difference in combating heat. Seniors should opt for loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothing that allows air circulation and reflects sunlight. Encourage them to wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect their face and eyes from the sun’s harsh rays. If they need to go outside, remind them to apply sunscreen with a high SPF to protect their skin from sunburn.

Maintain a Balanced Diet

Eating a well-balanced diet can aid in keeping seniors healthy and resilient during extreme heat. Suggest light, cool meals that include fresh fruits and vegetables, such as smoothies and salads. These foods contain high water content and essential nutrients, which help replenish electrolytes lost through sweating. On hot days, it’s best to avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy foods, as they can contribute to discomfort and dehydration.

Monitor Medications

Many seniors take medications regularly, and some of these drugs can affect how their bodies respond to heat. Some medications may cause dehydration or impair the body’s ability to regulate temperature. Encourage seniors to consult with their healthcare provider or pharmacist to review their medications and understand potential heat-related side effects. It may be necessary to adjust the dosages or change the timing of medication administration during hot weather.

Check on Each Other

During heatwaves, community support is crucial, especially for seniors who live alone. Encourage seniors to check on their peers and neighbors, and ask family members and friends to do the same. Social interaction is vital for mental and emotional well-being, and regular check-ins can provide comfort and companionship during challenging times. If possible, help seniors establish a phone tree or a buddy system to ensure everyone’s safety.

Hospitalization and Post-Acute Rehab from Heat-Related Illness

In the unfortunate event that your loved one becomes hospitalized due to a heat-related illness such as a heat stroke or injury caused by heat syncope, they may require rehab to aid in their recovery. Skilled nursing facilities play a vital role in providing specialized care and support for seniors with complex medical needs in a safe and comfortable environment.

Remember, it’s essential to stay vigilant and attentive to seniors during heat waves, as they may be less likely to recognize the signs of heat-related illnesses. By following these tips to keep seniors safe in a heatwave, we can make a significant difference in the well-being of our elderly loved ones during the hottest days of the year.

The post 6 Tips for Seniors to Stay Safe in a Heatwave appeared first on CareOne.

The air quality in the Northeast has been hazardous for several days due to smoke from Canadian wildfires. The Environmental Protection Agency has issued a health advisory for the region. Here’s what you need to know to keep elderly family members safe from negative air pollution health effects.

Why Seniors Are at Increased Risk

Poor air quality poses risks to everyone, but seniors are particularly vulnerable. As people age, their lungs become less efficient at filtering out pollutants, and their immune system weakens. This can lead to acute respiratory problems, such as shortness of breath, bronchial spasms and respiratory tract infections like pneumonia.

Seniors are also more likely to have preexisting chronic health conditions that can be exacerbated by air particles. In addition, some medications may make them more susceptible to the effects of air pollution.  Beta-blockers, which are often used to treat heart disease, for example, can make it more difficult for the lungs to clear mucus.

As a result, emergency room visits and hospital admissions typically increase as air quality decreases. Research shows that the correlation between air pollution and heart failure, myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke grows stronger with age.

How to Protect Your Loved One

There are a few things you can do to protect senior family members during an air quality crisis:

• Encourage them to stay indoors as much as possible. If they must go outside, they should wear an N95 mask that covers their nose and mouth.
• Check the Air Quality Index (AQI). The AQI is a measure of how polluted the air is. If the AQI is high, it is particularly important to stay indoors.
• Advise them to avoid strenuous activity when the air quality is bad. Strenuous activity can increase susceptibility to the effects of pollution.
• Maintain air quality indoors. Keep doors and windows shut and use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) purifier. Avoid smoking, burning candles or cooking fried foods.
• If your loved one has a preexisting heart or respiratory condition, get in touch with their doctor to see whether their medication should be adjusted.
• Monitor for signs of respiratory distress. If they experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:
  • Coughing
  • Wheezing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Difficulty breathing

What to Expect If Your Loved One Is Hospitalized

If your loved one does get admitted to the hospital due to the air quality crisis, there are a few things you can expect:

• They will be monitored closely by the medical team.
• They may be given medication to help with their breathing.
• They may be put on oxygen therapy.
• They may be asked to stay in the hospital for a longer period of time.

After discharge from the hospital, they may need to go to a post-acute rehab center to continue their recovery. Post-acute rehab centers provide specialized care and services – such as cardiac care and pulmonary rehabilitation – that can help seniors regain their strength and function. As you evaluate your options, reach out to the facility to understand what protective measures are in place.

By following these tips, you can help to protect elderly loved ones from air pollution health effects and ensure that they receive the best possible care if they are hospitalized.

The post How to Protect Seniors from Air Pollution Health Effects appeared first on CareOne.

Caring for a loved one is one of the most profound and rewarding responsibilities — but it can also be physically and emotionally taxing. You have to manage your own work, family and social obligations, while also providing around-the-clock care for your loved one. This juggling act can lead to fatigue, burnout, and in some cases, illness.

Respite care for family caregivers is a temporary care arrangement that allows you to take some time for yourself. It can be provided at home, in a care facility, or even on vacation. Respite care can be arranged for a day or a few weeks. It is especially common and sought out in the summer when many families plan vacations and other special events.

Beyond the convenience factor, respite care offers numerous advantages for both you as a caregiver and your loved one. Here are some of the top benefits:

1. Enjoy a Worry-free Vacation

Respite care for family caregivers can provide peace of mind. Knowing that your loved one is being well-cared for while you are traveling or decompressing during the summer months allows you to fully relax and enjoy your break. Then come back to your caregiving duties refreshed and rejuvenated, so that you can provide your loved one with the best possible care.

2. Support Mental Health

To take care of others, you need to take care of yourself. According to the Archangel National Caregiver Survey, 57% of family caregivers report high levels of stress, anxiety and/or depression. Respite care can significantly reduce stress and burnout and improve overall mental health. When you have a break from caregiving, you actually have a chance to relax, recharge and focus on your own needs. This break can help prevent becoming overwhelmed and exhausted.

3. Improve Quality of Care

Beyond the benefits for you, respite care can enhance the quality of life for your loved one. When you are able to take a break, you are more likely to be patient, understanding and better able to provide quality care, thereby improving the quality of care you are providing.

4. Strengthen Relationships

Respite care can help strengthen your relationship with your loved one requiring care. Taking some time for yourself can help you de-stress and come back to caregiving feeling more patient and understanding, improving your bond with your loved one.

5. Take Care of Your Own Health

From catching up on lost sleep, to focusing on eating healthier and exercising regularly, respite care affords you more time to take care of your own health — and when you are taking care of their own health, you are better able to care for your loved one.

6. Find Opportunities for Socialization

Respite care can provide opportunities for socialization for both you and your loved one. While your loved one enjoys special activities and interactions with peers, you can spend time with friends and family, which can prevent loneliness and isolation.

7. Buy More Time to Assess Care Options

While your loved one is in respite care, you have the time and focus to explore other options for care. For example, if you are considering placing your loved one in a facility, respite care can give you a chance to try out the facility before moving to full-time assisted living. This test-run can help you make the best decision for your loved one’s care.

At CareOne, we offer respite care for family caregivers across the Northeast and pride ourselves on providing compassionate care in a safe and comfortable environment. This summer, we’re offering a special discount of $350 per day on our respite care services at our CareOne at Hanover location.

To take advantage of this offer, call us at (973) 599-7500 or fill out the form below.

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The post Respite Care for Family Caregivers: Everything You Need to Know this Summer appeared first on CareOne.

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Forgetfulness is a common occurrence as we age – but memory loss, combined with other behaviors, can be indications of Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s or another memory condition requiring medical attention. According to the World Health Organization, there are 55 million people currently living with dementia worldwide. The Alzheimer’s Association estimates that 6.7 million Americans aged 65 and older are living with Alzheimer’s in 2023.

Here are some signs memory loss concerns may warrant a professional diagnosis:

Dementia can affect the frontal lobe causing many people to act in a way that is out of character. This can mean loss of initiative or decreased interest in activities that once excited them. Learn more.

Cognitive decline can create increased difficulty for seniors living with the disease. They may be angry, saddened or frustrated by these changes. Learn more.

While loss of short-term memory and operational ability is often normal in aging, folks with dementia and related conditions face more significant challenges with their memory, including forgetting names and faces. Learn more.

Seniors with memory impairments often forget how to complete typical routines or tasks such as daily hygiene or cooking a favorite meal. Those with Parkinson’s specifically struggle with movement due to stiffness and loss of balance. Learn more.

Beyond changes in personality, you may notice a loved one completely mistaking the meaning of familiar words, substituting words for others that don’t fit. They might also have issues with abstract thinking and understanding numbers and/or symbols. Learn more.

Losing neurons in the frontal lobe may affect judgment. As a result, people with Alzheimer’s and dementia may not understand their actions which may be putting their safety or the safety of others at risk. Learn more.

A key sign of dementia is experiencing confusion in familiar environments or losing awareness of time and place. Your loved one may misplace items or get lost in familiar places. Learn more.

At CareOne, we treat your family like our own. If you suspect your loved one might have memory loss, call a CareOne memory care facility near you to speak to a memory care specialist and learn more about suitable care options.

The post When Should Memory Loss Concerns Be Taken Seriously? Here are the Signs appeared first on CareOne.

The secret to the success of CareOne’s Harmony Village memory care program is the close collaboration between specialists, nurses, and staff to deliver next-level care to its residents. CareOne’s team works tirelessly to cultivate a strong understanding of their personal background in addition to their unique abilities and behaviors. From there, the team develops highly personalized care plans.

Harmony Village at Hanover Township is a vibrant CareOne community dedicated to creating a comfortable and stimulating environment for their residents living with memory impairments.

Hear from our excited new team members about what they find the most rewarding in caring for residents at Hanover:

A Community Catered to Residents’ Needs

Harmony Village assisted living communities have a unique model where each neighborhood serves residents based on the progression of their condition (mild, moderate, or advanced). This model allows for highly trained staff members to hone in on the specific needs of each resident and organize programming based on their distinct abilities and disease progression.

“What makes the dementia specialist’s role so special is that our sole job is to build a deep connection and understanding of the residents, identify their specific needs are and help manage their behaviors. The dementia specialists then share that information on to the frontline staff whouse dementia care techniques to help residents manage their days.. This makes CareOne unique – it’s a team effort,” says Hanover’s new Memory Care Specialist Ulysses Biscaia.

Ulysses has more than 10 years of experience working with seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other memory impairments with a specialization in sub-acute rehab and long-term care. Grounded in the training from CareOne’s Director of Dementia Program Development Joan DiPaola and informed by the expertise of world-class Dementia Specialist Teepa Snow, Harmony Village staff and dementia specialists work 24/7 to aid and encourage residents in their communities. Put simply, this means carefully and compassionately observing resident patterns of behavior, trigger points and emotional responses to best understand their condition. Centered around these principles, the dementia specialist’s job is to make sure this expertise and personal knowledge informs each resident’s care.

Partnership in Care

From the community tour through admissions, CareOne supports caregivers throughout the process, working closely with them to understand residents’ needs and behaviors. At Hanover, we want caregivers to stay engaged and work closely with us in designing the best program for their loved one. Our new Building Administrator, Robert Fiorese, has worked for more than 20 years in senior living:

“Often times when families come to us, they’re in a crisis mode. They need help and they don’t know how to care for this person. This is their mom, their dad, or their loved one and they just don’t have the full knowledge of how to deal with them in their condition and have a lot of questions.”

Robert feels the most joy in being an empathetic ally to caregivers and getting their loved ones the care they need. This is especially true when caregivers feel apprehensive to put their loved ones in an assisted living community.

“We assure [caregivers] that this isn’t the final stage. They’re not dropping off your loved one – we’re here to help you reconnect and give them the safest level of independence possible,” he adds.

Activities & Engagement

Outside of aiding residents with daily living tasks such as hygiene, getting proper nutrition, and medication management, the Hanover team fosters a fun and interactive environment through thoughtful activity programming matched to residents’ cognitive abilities. Olivia Cozewith, the new director of sales and marketing, has a background as an activities director.

Group programming can range from playing games and socializing at the ice cream parlor to spring events on the outdoor patio as well as individual activities. At CareOne, we help residents connect with their previous interests through these activities.

“If we have a woman who used to knit lap blankets for hospice patients, we’ll introduce her to another resident who also used to knit. By bringing them together for activities, they form a friendship — if it’s a new friendship every day, that’s totally fine,” says Olivia.

Our staff builds strong relationships with residents and their families and are dedicated to developing creative programming to promote mental and emotional well-being. We also deliver around-the-clock care to help residents achieve the highest quality of life possible while relieving caregivers of their most challenging responsibilities. CareOne delivers this support so that caregivers can return to their role as a daughter, son, spouse, sister, or brother and get quality time back with their loved one.

The post Harmony Village at Hanover Township: A Team United in Care appeared first on CareOne.

There are more than 6 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease, and that number could rise to almost 13 million by 2050, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

That need can be acutely felt by the 11 million Americans who provide unpaid care for those individuals, many of whom are grandparents, mothers, fathers and siblings. For many, finding the right place to care for a loved one is difficult.

To help, Kaitlyn Koch, administrator of Harmony Village at CareOne Hanover Township, recently spoke with NJ Advance Media about what to look for in a memory care facility, such as CareOne’s Harmony Village, which will open a new 84-room location in Hanover in 2022 and is part of a larger expansion plan by the company.

Q: What should families consider first when selecting a memory care facility?
A: I always tell families that they need to trust their gut. They need to walk into the building and feel comfortable when they’re visiting, and they need to feel safe and secure and have confidence in the staff to care for their the loved one the same way they would care for them. We’re almost like a luxury hotel. Every resident has his or her own suite, bathroom and kitchenette. There are common spaces throughout, a dining room, a movie theater, a mini gym, garden areas, a bistro that is open 24/7, and we’ll also have an ice cream parlor and a full-service salon.

Q: What on-site services will be at Harmony Village at CareOne Hanover Township?
A: Each Harmony Village community is staffed with a dementia specialist — an individual who is highly trained in memory care and works to educate staff and develop a customized plan of care that is specific to each resident. We’re also proud to offer in-house physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and we have a full team of dementia care specialists working with patients and their families. In addition, our director of nursing has relationships with many local specialists, such as cardiologists and psychologists. At CareOne Harmony Village in Hanover, families will have a place that is safe and secure for their loved ones, where they will have the resources and care they need.

Q: How does Harmony Village evaluate patients before they move in?
A: A comprehensive assessment is done before residents move in. Our dementia specialist and director of nursing meet with the family and resident to learn more about the resident’s past, what they like, their interests and goals moving forward, and how we can provide consistent, patient-centered care. It is so important, especially in a dementia assisted living community, that we focus on the resident’s past and their goals so the residents can live their best life. Additionally, residents live in different neighborhoods based on their cognitive ability.

Q: What recreational activities are available to residents?
A: We have a full calendar of activities planned for residents. There are daily exercise groups, cooking demonstrations, baking clubs, outings and we have different performers from the community come in. Whatever residents or their families want to see in place for them, we can make that happen. Additionally, families take a very active role here, visiting loved ones regularly and participating in activities, including some of our trips. It’s our goal to have families as active as possible. We want residents to be engaged and enjoy a purposeful, meaningful life. We want them to feel like they have a reason to be in the community.

For more information on Harmony Village at Hanover Township, call Ann Foley, director of sales and marketing, at 201-370-4592.

The post Comprehensive, Compassionate Memory Care at Harmony Village at CareOne Hanover appeared first on CareOne.

There’s one word that best describes CareOne’s approach to memory care: groundbreaking.

For more than 45 years, CareOne has developed a reputation for offering patient-centered care in gracious, professionally managed centers and communities. And now, the family-owned healthcare organization is quickly becoming known as a leader in memory care.

When it comes to caring for people with Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia, CareOne’s assisted living centers are ahead of the curve, providing hands-on training by seasoned dementia specialists to all employees; promoting a positive approach to care designed to enhance a resident’s quality of life; and engaging residents in activities that focus on what they can do, rather than what they can’t.

“We don’t see a resident’s disability as their identity,” says Joan DiPaola, a senior dementia specialist who leads CareOne’s memory care training program. “At CareOne, it is our job to ensure that patients who have dementia, at any stage, find beauty in every day.”

Top-Down Training

DiPaola works with a team of highly-seasoned dementia specialists (all with decades of experience) to provide regular training to all CareOne employees—from the assisted living caregivers to the hospitality staff—to ensure that all memory care residents receive consistent, patient-centered care.

One key piece of the training: “Employees are taught to look at each resident as a person, rather than a diagnosis,” DiPaola says. Families are a key part of the puzzle, helping by creating a “life story” book featuring their loved one, so that CareOne staffers can get to know each resident personally from the moment they enter their new home.

Additionally, a team of dementia specialists conduct monthly training sessions with residents’ families to offer education and support. “We partner with families in order to fulfill our commitment to give their loved ones living with dementia a meaningful, purposeful life,” says MaryBeth Rose, a Dementia Specialist at CareOne at Parsippany and CareOne at Livingston who served as a registered nurse in acute care hospitals for nearly 40 years before joining CareOne.

Positive Approach to Care

Much of CareOne’s training focuses on the “positive approach to care” philosophy, a series of techniques which focus on what people who have dementia can do, rather than what they can’t. The approach includes responding to a person’s change in cognition and abilities in a way that is not hurtful or offensive and recognizing that a person with dementia is doing the best they can.

CareOne strives to ensure each resident who has dementia spends time engaging in activities with peers who have similar cognitive skills, whether they’re living in a dedicated memory care unit of a CareOne assisted living community or in one of Care One’s all-memory care Harmony Village communities— which are organized in distinct “neighborhoods” for residents based on their varying stages of memory impairment.

“We find more success meeting people at the level they’re at, rather than over- or under-challenging them,” DiPaola says.“When some people think of dementia, they think of decline,” adds John Albanese, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for CareOne. “Instead of focusing on loss, we concentrate on the positive. That’s what really sets us apart.”

The post The CareOne Difference: Compassionate, Cutting-Edge Memory Care appeared first on CareOne.