What Sense Is Most Affected By Alzheimer's Disease
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What Sense Is Most Affected By Alzheimer’s Disease?

While smell is typically the first sense impacted by Alzheimer’s disease, every sense may become impaired.

Smell

Generally, smell is the first sense to be affected by this disease. Individuals may become confused as to what they are smelling at this stage. This, of course, can get dangerous at home if something happens to be burning on the stove or in the oven.

Use these tips to keep your loved one safe at home:

  • Make sure smoke detectors are always working properly.
  • All cleaning supplies should be locked away.
  • Check to see if all food items are up to date.

Sight

The individuals’ eyes may not show any physical abnormalities, but the brain’s ability to process some images could be impaired. This ultimately creates confusion for the individual when tasked with identifying familiar people, places, and objects. Colors and shapes also become difficult to process.

Taste

The ability to taste is always impaired when our ability to smell is impacted. Most dangers related to smell also apply to this sense.

Touch

Individuals with Alzheimer’s could experience difficulty feeling hot and cold sensations.

This could become dangerous so take these precautions:

  • Install anti-scold devices on your plumbing system.
  • Place a warning sticker on your oven.
  • Color code any hot and cold areas of the home.
  • Make ovens and stovetops unusable by installing safety devices.

Hearing

Hearing can be impacted even if individuals test well for hearing issues. Alzheimer’s causes difficulty processing certain words and sounds. This can make some sounds quite confusing to the individual.

Try to keep a calm and quiet environment around your loved one at all times. Use short statements and always speak slowly.

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Vista Winds Is An Upscale Retirement Community Located In Peoria, Arizona

If you are doing research about retirement communities in Peoria, Arizona, Vista Winds Retirement Home should definitely be on your list. Vista Winds offers retirement living at its finest. We have a rich calendar of activities, meals prepared by a Chef and caregivers on staff 24 hours a day for your health and safety.

We offer award winning independent living, assisted living and memory care services. Come tour our community to see how we are a step above the rest and how easy it is to Make Yourself at Home! Vista Winds is surrounded by amazing views and our resort style property will be sure to impress!

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Alzheimer's Disease Quotes
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45 Alzheimer’s Disease Quotes

As C.C. Scott once said, “The human spirit is much stronger than anything that can happen to it.” If a loved one is battling Alzheimer’s diseases, use these 45 quotes below for support.

Best Alzheimer’s Disease Quotes

1. “You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

2. “Hope is being able to see there is light despite all of the darkness.” – Desmond Tutu

3. “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” – Aesop

4. “The best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person.” – Andy Rooney

5. “One person caring for another represents life’s greatest value.” – Jim Rohn

6. “Doctors diagnose, nurses heal and caregivers make sense of it all.” – Brett H. Lewis

7. “The measure of life isn’t its duration, but its donation.” – Peter Marshall

8. “At best we will be able to halt the disease. Prevention will be much more important.” – Michel Goedert

9. “Care is a state in which something does matter; it is the source of human tenderness.” – Rollo May

10. “Never give up hope. If you do, you’ll be dead already.” – Peggi Spears

11. “We have to start teaching ourselves to not be afraid.” – William Faulkner

12. “There’s just so much scientifically that we don’t know, and we can know.” – Miles D. White

13. “The soul of a person with Alzheimer’s may forget, but their spirit never will.” – Grace Noyes

14. “People with Alzheimer’s deserve to be seen, so that we can find a cure.” – Julianne Moore

15. “Alzheimer’s caregivers are heroes.” – Leeza Gibbons

16. “Struggle is a sign that you’re alive, that you’re human, and that you’re trying.” – Zander Blancher

17. “We do not have to be defined by our illness. We are much more than our symptoms.” – Dr. Brent Shaefer

18. “Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it.” – Charles R. Swindoll

19. “When you have exhausted all possibilities, remember this: you haven’t.” – Thomas Edison

20. “Never let the things you cannot do prevent you from doing the things you can.” – John Wooden

21. “The most precious memories are the ones we hold in our hearts.” – Sharon Griffin

22. “If you want to avoid Alzheimer’s disease, sleep eight hours a night.” – Deepak Chopra

23. “Alzheimer’s doesn’t erase the person you were; it just makes it harder to remember.” – Gerald Everette

24. “The best way to remember someone with Alzheimer’s is to never forget them.” – Rianne Lee

25. “Alzheimer’s may take away the past, but it can never touch the love that remains.” – Miranda Blake

26. “I have Alzheimer’s, but it doesn’t have my spirit.” – Vernice Johnson

27. “In the end, you tried and you cared and sometimes that is enough.” – Anthea Yang

28. “Caregiving is a constant learning experience.” – Vivian Frazier

29. “Be helpful. When you see someone without a smile, give them yours.” – Zig Ziglar

30. “Even though helpful medication exists, there’s still no cure and we have to keep fighting to find one.” – Sally Noelle

31. “Dementia does not rob someone of their dignity. It’s our reaction to them that does.” – Teepa Snow

32. “They may not be able to remember who we are, but they feel us just the same.” – Amanda Dillon

33. “Aging is not lost youth, but a new stage of opportunity and strength.” – Betty Friedan

34. “You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you.” – John Bunyan

35. “Though those with Alzheimer’s may forget us, we as a society must remember them.” – Scott Kirshenbaum

36. “The closest thing to being cared for is to care for someone else.” – Carson McCullers

37. “It’s not how much you do, but how much love you put in the doing.” – Mother Teresa

38. “The capacity to care is the thing which gives life its deepest significance.” – Pablo Casals

39. “When someone you love becomes a memory, that memory becomes a treasure.” – Ollie Grace Moore

40. “Alzheimer’s is like a thief in the night, stealing memories and dreams one by one.” – Shane Boler

41. “It’s not the years in life that count. It’s the life in the years.” – Abraham Lincoln

42. “Memory is the diary that we all carry about this.” – Oscar Wilde

43. “The mind is a precious gift, but it’s not immortal. And when it fades, the heart remains.” – Bubba Palmer

44. “The greatest gift you can give to someone with Alzheimer’s is your time.” – Hannah Basin

45. “Memories are the key not to the past, but to the future.” – Corrie Ten Boom

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Vista Winds Is An Upscale Retirement Community Located In Peoria, Arizona

If you are doing research about retirement communities in Peoria, Arizona, Vista Winds Retirement Home should definitely be on your list. Vista Winds offers retirement living at its finest. We have a rich calendar of activities, meals prepared by a Chef and caregivers on staff 24 hours a day for your health and safety. We offer award winning independent living, assisted living and memory care services. Come tour our community to see how we are a step above the rest and how easy it is to Make Yourself at Home! Vista Winds is surrounded by amazing views and our resort style property will be sure to impress!

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What is Dementia
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What is Dementia?

Dementia is the drop of cognitive functions — recalling, thinking, and reasoning — to such a level that it impedes an individual’s daily life and activities. Many individuals that have dementia are unable to keep their emotions in check, and their personalities might change. Dementia ranges in harshness from the slightest stages, as it is just outset to affect an individual’s awareness, to the most extreme stage, when the individual is required to completely entrust on others for basic activities of daily living, such as dressing themselves.

Dementia has an affect on millions of people across the world and is more common as people age (a 1/3rd of all individuals aged 85 plus may have some sort of dementia) but it is not a regular part of aging. Many individuals live well into their 90’s and beyond lacking any indications of dementia.

There are many various types of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s, probably the most common.

What are some indications and symptoms of dementia?

The indications and symptoms related to dementia take place when once healthy neurons in the brain stop working, lose touch with other brain cells, and breakdown. Whereas everyone loses some neurons as they age, people suffering from dementia go through a much greater loss.

The indications and symptoms can deviate subject to the kind of dementia and could include:

  • Facing memory loss, judgment errors, and confusion
  • Difficulty speaking, understanding and conveying thoughts, or reading and writing
  • Wandering and getting lost in familiar neighborhood
  • Difficulty dealing with money dependably and paying bills on time
  • Repeated questioning
  • Using unorthodox words to refer to common objects
  • Taking longer to finish general daily tasks
  • Growing bored of normal daily events or activities
  • Hallucinating or experiencing mirages or acts of paranoia
  • Behaving erratically
  • Uninterested in other people’s feelings
  • Falling down and difficulty getting around

Individuals with mental and/ or developmental disability can also progress in dementia as they age, and in these situations, acknowledging their symptoms can be especially challenging. It’s crucial to consider an individual’s abilities now, and to keep a sharp lookout for changes eventually that might be a sign of dementia.

Vista Winds Is An Upscale Retirement Community Located In Peoria, Arizona

If you are doing research about retirement communities in Peoria, Arizona, Vista Winds Retirement Home should definitely be on your list. Vista Winds offers retirement living at its finest. We have a rich calendar of activities, meals prepared by a Chef and caregivers on staff 24 hours a day for your health and safety. We offer award winning independent living, assisted living and memory care services. Come tour our community to see how we are a step above the rest and how easy it is to Make Yourself at Home! Vista Winds is surrounded by amazing views and our resort style property will be sure to impress!

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Funny And Inspirational Quotes About Aging
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51 Quotes About Old Age

Aging brings plenty of wisdom, but let’s not forget about the laughs and inspiration! Here are 51 of the best old age quotes.

Funny Quotes About Aging

1. “Old age is always fifteen years older than I am.” – Oliver Wendell Holmes

2. “Old age is like everything else. To make a success of it, you’ve got to start young.” – Theodore Roosevelt

3. “You can’t help getting older, but you don’t have to get old.” – George Burns

4. “You are only young once, but you can stay immature indefinitely.” – Ogden Nash

5. “Birthdays are good for you. Statistics show that the people who have the most live the longest.” – Larry Lorenzoni

6. “I don’t feel old. I don’t feel anything until noon. Then it’s time for my nap.” – Bob Hope

7. “If I had known I was going to live this long, I’d have taken better care of myself.” – Unknown

8. “I’m very pleased to be here. Let’s face it, at my age I’m very pleased to be anywhere.” – George Burns

9. “People ask me what I’d most appreciate getting for my eighty-seventh birthday. I tell them, a paternity suit.” – George Burns

10. “How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you was?” – Satchel Paige

11. “The really frightening thing about middle age is that you know you’ll grow out of it.” – Doris Day

12. “By the time you’re 80 years old you’ve learned everything. You only have to remember it.” – George Burns

13. “You don’t stop laughing when you grow old. You grow old when you stop laughing.” – George Bernard Shaw

14. “Aging seems to be the only available way to live a long life.” – Kitty O’Neill Collins

15. “You can live to be a hundred if you give up all things that make you want to live to be a hundred.” – Woody Allen

16. “Age is a very high price to pay for maturity.” – Tom Stoppard

17. “Growing old is mandatory, but growing up is optional.” – Walt Disney

18. “Today is the oldest you’ve ever been and the youngest you’ll ever be again.” – Unknown

19. “Age is not how old you are but how many years of fun you’ve had.” – Matt Maldre

20. “Old age is not so bad when you consider the alternative.” – Maurice Chevalier

21. “Life’s tragedy is that we get too old soon and wise too late.” – Benjamin Franklin

22. “I don’t let my age define me but the side-effects are getting harder to ignore.” – Unknown

23. “No one is as old as those who have outlived enthusiasm.” – Henry David Thoreau

24. “There is still no cure for the common birthday.” – John Glenn

25. “Wrinkles should merely indicate where smiles have been.” – Mark Twain

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Inspirational Aging Quotes

26. “The longer I live the more beautiful life becomes.” – Frank Lloyd Wright

27. “We don’t grow older, we grow riper.” – Pablo Picasso

28. “I don’t believe in aging. I believe in forever altering one’s aspect to the sun.” – Virginia Woolf

29. “It’s like you trade the virility of the body for the agility of the spirit.” – Elizabeth Lesser

30. “Count your age by friends, not years. Count your life by smiles, not tears.” – John Lennon

31. “In the end it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” – Abraham Lincoln

32. “Getting old is a fascinating thing. The older you get, the older you want to get.” – Keith Richards

33. “Aging is not lost youth but a new stage of opportunity and strength.” – Betty Friedan

34. “Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be.” – Robert Browning

35. “When it comes to staying young, a mind-lift beats a face-lift any day.” – Marty Buccella

36. “Old age is an excellent time for outrage. My goal is to say or do at least one outrageous thing every week.” – Maggie Kuhn

37. “Those who love deeply never grow old, they may die of old age, but they die young.” – Ben Franklin

38. “To find joy in work is to discover the fountain of youth.” – Pearl S. Buck

39. “Anyone who keeps the ability to see beauty never grows old.” – Franz Kafka

40. “Age is no barrier. It’s a limitation you put on your mind.” – Jackie Joyner-Kersee

41. “I suppose real old age begins when one looks backward rather than forward.” – Mary Sarton

42. “For the unlearned, old age is winter; for the learned, it is the season of the harvest.” – Hasidic saying

43. “Youth is the gift of nature, but age is a work of art.” – Stanislaw Jerzy Lec

44. “Try to keep your soul young and quivering right up to old age.” – George Sand

45. “Age is something that doesn’t matter, unless you are a cheese.” – Luis Bunuel

46. “Age is a case of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it don’t matter.” – Satchel Paige

47. “That’s another great thing about getting older. Your life is written on your face.” – Frances McDormand

48. “Why would I worry about getting older – what’s to moan about?” – Dawn French

49. “I’m just getting older and better.” – Neal Schon

50. “If you’re not getting older, you’re dead.” – Tom Petty

51. “Aging is just another word for living.” – Cindy Joseph

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Vista Winds Is An Upscale Retirement Community Located In Peoria, Arizona

If you are doing research about retirement communities in Peoria, Arizona, Vista Winds Retirement Home should definitely be on your list. Vista Winds offers retirement living at its finest. We have a rich calendar of activities, meals prepared by a Chef and caregivers on staff 24 hours a day for your health and safety. We offer award winning independent living, assisted living and memory care services. Come tour our community to see how we are a step above the rest and how easy it is to Make Yourself at Home! Vista Winds is surrounded by amazing views and our resort style property will be sure to impress!

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Fall Prevention Checklist
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Fall Prevention Checklist

If you are looking for a checklist for senior fall prevention at home, follow this guide!

Fall Prevention Checklist

Falling at home is one of the biggest concerns for elderly citizens. Follow this guide for some safety solutions.

Floor Safety

❒ All walkways need to be kept clear of any objects.

❒ Keep walkways free of any furniture.

❒ No loose objects/debris on the floor.

❒ Wires and cords are secured against the wall.

❒ Remove any throw rugs.

❒ Refrain from ever using floor wax.

❒ Secure all carpet edges.

Bedroom Safety

❒ Lightning needs to be within reach of the bed on both sides.

❒ Utilize nightlights to keep pathways and bathrooms illuminated throughout the night.

❒ Install handrails next to the bed.

Bathroom Safety

❒ Tub and/or shower floor should feature nonstick rubber mats.

❒ Install grab bars around the toilet.

❒ Use grab bars to enter and exit the shower area.

❒ Install a raised toilet seat.

Kitchen Safety

❒ All frequently used items should be located on lower shelves.

❒ Keep a sturdy stool nearby, if necessary.

❒ Put a list of important healthcare information and contacts on your refrigerator.

Stair Safety

❒ Fix any broken or uneven steps immediately.

❒ Remove loose objects from the staircase.

❒ Keep the staircase well-lit at all times.

❒ Install handrails on both sides.

❒ Secure tread or carpet on stairs.

❒ Replace lightbulbs when needed.

❒ Use reflecting tape at the bottom and top of the stairs.

❒ Fix loose handrails.

❒ Light switches should be at both the top and bottom of the stairs.

Outdoor Safety

❒ Trim any shrubbery along the pathways to doors.

❒ Install adequate lighting by doors and walkways.

❒ Repair any uneven or cracked sidewalks.

Keep The Home Well-Lit At All Times

A home lacking in sufficient lighting will only increase the possibility of falls and other injuries. Keep the staircases well-lit all throughout the day and night. Installing nightlights in high traffic areas of the home is a helpful solution. Wireless motion sensor lights can also be installed near any bathrooms and bedrooms. Ensure the lighting you currently use is strong enough to keep you from straining your eyes.

Remove Tripping Hazards

An estimated 9,000 seniors die each year due to at-home falls, according to The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. You can greatly minimize this potential risk by removing all loose objects from the floor. All cords and wires will need to be placed against walls securely. Rugs and carpeting should all feature nonslip backing.

Fire Safety

Fires are another potential risk for seniors living independently. Place a working smoke detector and fire extinguisher on each floor of the home. Ensure proper operation by testing these regularly. All windows and doors should be easy to open from the inside.

Assisted Living At Vista Winds Located In Peoria, Arizona

If you are doing research about retirement communities in Peoria, Arizona, Vista Winds Retirement Home should definitely be on your list. Vista Winds offers retirement living at its finest. We have a rich calendar of activities, meals prepared by a Chef and caregivers on staff 24 hours a day for your health and safety. We offer award winning independent living, assisted living and memory care services. Come tour our community to see how we are a step above the rest and how easy it is to Make Yourself at Home! Vista Winds is surrounded by amazing views and our resort style property will be sure to impress!

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Assisted Living In Arizona
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Assisted Living Vs Memory Care

Are you considering assisted living or memory care communities? Let’s look at the similarities and differences between both living arrangements.

What Is Assisted Living?

Assisted living facilities are settings where seniors live independently for the most part, but are provided with assistance when needed. Assistance, of course, will vary based on the individual’s specific needs, such as mobility issues, transportation needs and medication.

If living at home has become a bit too hard or dangerous, then it may be time to think about assisted living. Some facilities will be in a residential-style neighborhood or in a large complex.

Assisted Living Features:

  • Medication monitoring
  • 24-hour care
  • Three meals per day
  • Personal care
  • Social activities
  • Housekeeping/laundry

How Much Does Assisted Living Cost?

Many costs are associated with assisted living communities. Assisted living is also more costly than any independent living options due to how much care is provided. Which costs can you plan and budget for when choosing an assisted living facility, though?

Generally, these facilities in Arizona require move-in fees, which will serve as a prorated monthly fee. You can expect to pay between $1,000-$5,000, according to WhereYouLiveMatters.

Benefits Of Assisted Living

Here are a few benefits of assisted living communities:

Safety And Protection

You no longer have to be concerned for your loved one’s safety. Whether you had previous concerns about falls, taking improper medication or not eating a healthy diet, you can rest assured knowing your loved one is being cared for constantly. Assisted living facilities make it their goal to ensure your loved one’s safety.

Day-To-Day Assistance

It is important for seniors to have their independence, but still receive the assistance they need in daily activities. These communities will provide residents with tasks, such as dressing, preparing and eating meals, and laundry duties.

Increased Activity

Staying active can be a very difficult task for seniors who still live at home. Your loved ones will be offered an assortment of indoor and outdoor activities. From arts and crafts to dinner parties, communities will make sure your loved one stays active and healthy.

What Is Memory Care?

Memory care units are designed for residents in need of more specialized care and assistance. Memory care is often referred to as special care units, ideal for senior citizens suffering physically or with dementia/Alzheimer’s. In most cases, memory care units can act as a stand-alone facility or as part of an assisted/independent living community.

Memory Care Features:

  • 24/7 care from licensed and certified staff
  • At your service transportation
  • Housekeeping & laundry service
  • Community room
  • Concierge medical teams

Benefits Of Memory Care

These are just of few of the many benefits of memory care.

Specialized Care

It’s no secret that individuals suffering from memory loss need specialized care. These facilities can provide individualized care for anyone suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Secure Environment

Memory care facilities feature many safety measures designed to prevent wandering. Your loved one can be easily monitored in this environment, promoting both safety and independence.

Programs And Activities

These programs and activities are created to promote memory health for individuals suffering from memory loss. Residents will have access to a plethora of games and activities inside these facilities.

How Much Does Memory Care Cost?

The average cost of memory care services across the U.S. is $6,935 per month. Of course, costs can vary depending on the level of care that is required, according to SeniorLiving.

Average Length Of Stay In Memory Care Unit

When Should You Transition From Assisted Living To Memory Care?

These are three clear indicators that a transition to memory care is needed:

Sign 1. Physical Health Decline

These can be the most obvious signs of either dementia or Alzheimer’s. Individuals may become thin or frail at this point, with conditions worsening if the individual forgets to take medications.

Sign 2. Behavior Changes

It’s no secret that individuals suffering from dementia can begin acting out or differently. All changes, from motor skills to behavior, should be monitored closely. Individuals suffering from dementia have been known to become easily agitated and disoriented.

Sign 3. Constant Confusion

Dementia can cause consistent confusion. Even in familiar settings, those suffering from dementia can become lost and confused.

Vista Winds Is An Upscale Retirement Community Located In Peoria, Arizona

If you are doing research about retirement communities in Peoria, Arizona, Vista Winds Retirement Home should definitely be on your list. Vista Winds offers retirement living at its finest. We have a rich calendar of activities, meals prepared by a Chef and caregivers on staff 24 hours a day for your health and safety. We offer award winning independent living, assisted living and memory care services. Come tour our community to see how we are a step above the rest and how easy it is to Make Yourself at Home! Vista Winds is surrounded by amazing views and our resort style property will be sure to impress!

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How Much Does A Wheelchair Weigh
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How Much Does A Wheelchair Weigh?

On average, a manual wheelchair weighs between 15-60 lbs. Power wheelchairs can weigh anywhere from 50-250 lbs.

Why Wheelchair Weight Matters

Wheelchair weight is ultimately used to determine how well you will be able to push and maneuver them. It’s recommended to take into account your lifestyle, how you plan to use the selected wheelchair and whether or not you will be transporting it. Each type of wheelchair will feature differing weight and dimensions. Let’s look at details below.

Lightweight Wheelchairs

  • Lightweight wheelchairs are designed specifically for lifting and moving.
  • Typically, these wheelchairs are quite easy to lift, push and self-propel.
  • The more lightweight the chair is, the higher the price tag will be.
  • They come with either rigid or folding frames.
  • Folding frames are mostly used by senior citizens.
  • Rigid frames are ideal for individuals who self-propel throughout the day.

Average Weight: 15-35 lbs.

Transport Wheelchairs

  • These wheelchairs feature smaller wheels than the other models.
  • Transport wheelchairs are often used on trips to the park, for example.
  • Due to its smaller wheels, it cannot be self-propelled.

Average Weight: 15-30 lbs.

Standard Manual Wheelchairs

  • You are most likely to see these wheelchairs in an airport or hospital setting.
  • These are heavier than most expect since they are designed for commercial use.
  • Refrain from using standard wheelchairs when planning to self-propel for long distances.

Average Weight: 35-40 lbs.

Heavy Duty Wheelchairs

  • Heavy duty wheelchairs were created for individuals weighing over 300 lbs.
  • A wheelchair ramp is needed when lifting the chair into a vehicle.

Average Weight: 40-60 lbs.

Power Wheelchairs

  • Power wheelchairs can reach up to 8 mph due to the use of an electric motor.
  • These wheelchairs can drive anywhere from 7-20 miles.

Average Weight: 50-250 lbs.

Vista Winds Is An Upscale Retirement Community Located In Peoria, Arizona

If you are doing research about retirement communities in Peoria, Arizona, Vista Winds Retirement Home should definitely be on your list. Vista Winds offers retirement living at its finest. We have a rich calendar of activities, meals prepared by a Chef and caregivers on staff 24 hours a day for your health and safety. We offer award winning independent living, assisted living and memory care services. Come tour our community to see how we are a step above the rest and how easy it is to Make Yourself at Home! Vista Winds is surrounded by amazing views and our resort style property will be sure to impress!

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How To Talk To A Parent With Dementia
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How To Talk To A Parent With Dementia

It is very important to know exactly how to talk to a parent suffering from dementia about their future. Use our tips below to guide you through these tough conversations.

Tips For Talking To A Parent With Dementia

Dementia can unfortunately alter one’s personality dramatically. Oftentimes, dementia patients are referred to as “empty shells.” This is not always the case, though, as your loved one may seem perfectly normal on some days. These good days are ideal for having an important conversation about their future.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when discussing a loved one’s well-being:

Recognize The Task At Hand

Dementia does worsen over time, so communicating your wishes and desires for your loved one can be a difficult task. Those suffering from dementia tend to have a hard time both communicating and understanding. This conversation will require a lot of patience.

No Distractions

The setting is a crucial aspect of this conversation. Pick a specific location to sit down and have a talk. Make sure there are zero distractions in the area to help your loved one focus and engage in the conversation.

Speak Naturally

Be sure to stay calm during this talk and always speak naturally. Staying calm and collected will undoubtedly put your loved one at ease during this difficult process.

Use Their Name Continually

Use your loved one’s name throughout the talk, refraining from using “he” or “she” during the conversation. This is always an important thing to remember when speaking to anyone suffering from dementia.

Stay Focused

You will want to keep your one loved one focused on a single talking point for a long period of time. Individuals with dementia tend to have a tough time going back and forth in a complex conversation. Remember to stay on task while being very clear and direct in your communication.

Use Nonverbal Cues

Nonverbal cues include smiling, nodding and maintaining eye contact, among other subtle things to keep your loved one calm. These cues are used to comfort the individual while establishing an understanding, at the same time. Nonverbal communication is very important to use during the late stages of dementia.

Listen

Even if you plan on doing the majority of the talking, listening is still key. It’s crucial that your loved one feels heard and valued.

Stay Patient

Give your loved one as much time to think as he/she needs. It may be difficult at times, but stay focused and calm.

Assisted Living At Vista Winds Located In Peoria, Arizona

If you are doing research about retirement communities in Peoria, Arizona, Vista Winds Retirement Home should definitely be on your list. Vista Winds offers retirement living at its finest. We have a rich calendar of activities, meals prepared by a Chef and caregivers on staff 24 hours a day for your health and safety. We offer award winning independent living, assisted living and memory care services. Come tour our community to see how we are a step above the rest and how easy it is to Make Yourself at Home! Vista Winds is surrounded by amazing views and our resort style property will be sure to impress!

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levels of care for the elderly
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Levels Of Care For Elderly

Below are the six common levels of care for elderly citizens today.

Levels Of Care For The Elderly

These levels of care start with the least to most concentrated living situations, including:

  • In-home care.
  • Independent living.
  • Assisted living.
  • Respite care.
  • Memory care.
  • Nursing home.

Let’s dive into all of the options below.

In-Home Care

Generally referred to as “aging in place“, in-home care is intended for elderly citizens in need of help around the home. These seniors typically still possess the physical and mental capabilities to survive on their own, though. In-home care usually consists of personal care services provided, administering medications and daily check-ins.

There are numerous benefits of receiving in-home care. These benefits include being able to stay in a comfortable setting for as long as possible while aging. The only downside of this care is it does not typically last very long, as it is intended merely as a placeholder as one transitions to independent or assisted living care.

Independent Living

Independent living is a housing arrangement for those aged 55 and up. The housing types will vary from free-standing homes, apartment living and retirement communities. These communities are designed to let seniors get around as easily as possible. Landscaping and maintenance is usually performed by staff. Just like assisted living communities, independent living communities will offer residents various services and activity options. Communities generally feature pools, fitness center, dining and common areas.

Assisted Living

Assisted living facilities are settings where seniors live independently for the most part, but are provided with assistance when needed. Assistance, of course, will vary based on the individual’s specific needs, such as mobility issues, transportation needs and medication. If living at home has become a bit too hard or dangerous, then it may be time to think about assisted living. Some facilities will be in a residential-style neighborhood or in a large complex.

Respite Care

Respite care is intended for seniors who are a bit apprehensive about transitioning into assisted or independent care situations. In some cases, this care could last upward of a year, while lasting only one month in other scenarios. Essentially, respite care is a test run to see how comfortable an individual may be at an alternative care facility.

Memory Care

Memory care units are designed for residents in need of more specialized care and assistance. Memory care is often referred to as special care units, ideal for senior citizens suffering physically or with dementia/Alzheimer’s. In most cases, memory care units can act as a stand-alone facility or as part of an assisted/independent living community.

Nursing Home

Typically, nursing homes are the most concentrated living situation for seniors today. This care type features more invasive caregiving than any other living arrangement. This level of care is recommended for seniors who need frequent hospitalizations with worsening mental and physical conditions.

Assisted Living At Vista Winds Located In Peoria, Arizona

If you are doing research about retirement communities in Peoria, Arizona, Vista Winds Retirement Home should definitely be on your list. Vista Winds offers retirement living at its finest. We have a rich calendar of activities, meals prepared by a Chef and caregivers on staff 24 hours a day for your health and safety. We offer award winning independent living, assisted living and memory care services. Come tour our community to see how we are a step above the rest and how easy it is to Make Yourself at Home! Vista Winds is surrounded by amazing views and our resort style property will be sure to impress!

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Can The IRS Take Your 401k
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Written by webtechs

Can The IRS Take Your 401k

Are you wondering if the IRS can take your 401k and other retirement accounts? Let’s look at what the IRS can do and how you can protect your funds.

Why Is The IRS Trying To Take My 401k Or Retirement Money?

Although retirement accounts are protected from creditors, the IRS is an exception. The general rule says if you can get it, the IRS can too. The biggest reason why the IRS may try to levy your 401k, retirement or pension accounts is because you owe back taxes. Essentially, an IRS levy is a seizure of your assets to cover said tax debt.

The IRS will usually send a notice plus demand for payment to be made. If an individual ignores this notice, the IRS will send a final notice of intent to levy. This will be issued 30 days in advance, on average. Before the IRS performs the seizure, they will investigate your assets to see if you have sufficient equity to pay off your back taxes or else the seizure is prohibited.

The IRS can seize all types of retirement accounts, including 401k plans, IRAs and other self-employed plans like SEP-IRAs and Keogh plans. If, for example, your only source of money is taking distributions from money available in retirement accounts, the IRS does expect you to liquidate the account in order to pay off taxes.

Can The IRS Take My 401k If I Owe Taxes?

Yes, the IRS is able to take your 401k account if you are eligible to take distributions from the account. The IRS is unable to take your 401k money if you are restricted from taking money from the account due to age or other restrictions.

Can The IRS Take My Retirement Money If I Owe Taxes?

Again, yes, the IRS can take your retirement money in the event you owe back taxes. Retirement accounts that can be levied by the IRS include the following:

  • IRAs.
  • Keogh plans.
  • SEP-IRAs.
  • Stock bonus plans.
  • Qualified pension plans.
  • Company profit sharing.

Can The IRS Take My Pension If I Owe Taxes?

Your pension is not a protected asset, meaning the IRS can take it. The IRS can also take money from your bank account, Social Security benefits and even your home, depending on how much money you owe. Before performing a levy, though, the IRS will usually give you options to pay the money back.

How To Defend Your IRA And Retirement Accounts

To defend your accounts against an IRS seizure, you must know the IRS can only get what you get. For example, if you can’t access retirement money, neither can the IRS. Many retirement plans deny you access until you retire, take a job with another company, become disabled or pass away.

The IRS cannot force you to terminate your employment, so the as long as you stay employed, the IRS cannot access your accounts. In this case, the IRS will look into your wages/assets to pay taxes you owe. However, if you do have access to your retirement account(s), the IRS does as well.

Whether or not the IRS will take money out of that fund depends on if your conduct leading up to the tax liability was flagrant or not. Flagrant conduct includes such actions as tax evasion, fraud or making contributions while taxes are owed. If you can prove your conduct was not flagrant or that you depend on the retirement money, the funds cannot be levied.

The IRS is typically hesitant to take retirement funds, but knowing how to protect yourself from seizure is crucial. Setting up a plan to pay back taxes is the best way to protect your retirement accounts. You will also have the chance to prove you rely on these funds.

Assisted Living At Vista Winds Located In Peoria, Arizona

If you are doing research about retirement communities in Peoria, Arizona, Vista Winds Retirement Home should definitely be on your list. Vista Winds offers retirement living at its finest. We have a rich calendar of activities, meals prepared by a Chef and caregivers on staff 24 hours a day for your health and safety. We offer award winning independent living, assisted living and memory care services. Come tour our community to see how we are a step above the rest and how easy it is to Make Yourself at Home! Vista Winds is surrounded by amazing views and our resort style property will be sure to impress!

More Articles About Retirement

Senior Living
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