3 Tips for Reducing the Risk of Dementia

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Seniors do not need to think that dementia is just a natural part of aging. Here are some things you can do to reduce the risk by keeping your brain healthy and sharp.

Stay Physically Active
Research proves that one of the biggest things you can do to keep your mental health in check is to stay physically active. Physical activity promotes blood flow which helps keep your brain in shape. Even if you d develop Alzheimer’s or dementia, physical activity may slow down the disease’s progression.

Stay Socially Active
Isolation can be harmful to brain health, studies directly link lonliness to an increased risk of developing dementia. Living at Safe Haven means your loved one will have positive social interactions that will help keep their brain active and healthy.

Do What You Love
Find a hobby that will help engage your mind, even as simple as reading. Reading can help reduce the risk of dementia because it promotes brain activity. Other healthy brain activities are games, sudoku, and crossword puzzles. It’s never too late to learn a new skill like a musical instrument, take a dance class, or learn to paint. The best hobby is one you will actually enjoy.

To learn about the brain-boosting activities we have at Safe Haven contact us here.

When to Know it’s Time to Move to Alzheimer’s Care

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How do you know when it’s time? If you are at the point where you are concerned for the safety of your loved one, it’s time to seriously consider a senior living community like Safe Haven that specializes in Alzheimer’s and dementia care. Any of the following signs are reason enough to look at your options:

  • A lack of impulse control and issues controlling emotional responses
  • Accusatory verbal outbursts or paranoid statements
  • Depression or isolation
  • Difficulty engaging in meaningful activities
  • Agitation and restlessness
  • An increased number of falls
  • Increasing physical dependence on others
  • A need for a verbal, gesture, or physical cueing to complete tasks
  • Weight loss or difficulty with dining

Caring for someone with dementia can be a lot for one individual which means there are also signs you will see in yourself, as your loved one’s caregiver:

  • Increased irritation
  • Social withdrawal
  • Consistent low mood
  • Emotional and physical exhaustion

When it comes to Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia, it is essential to consider your health and the health of the whole family as well and how that will affect your loved one.

Keeping your loved one at home may seem like the best option, but given the complexity of the disease and the amount of support needed, they will get more support at a community like Safehaven that is designed especially for people living with dementia.

Our team is trained in dementia care and specialize in techniques that will help maintain your loved one’s indepedence and utilize their remaining skills. We develop a strong relationship with our residents and can anticipate their unmet needs.

At Safe Haven, we are focused on keeping residents engaged by providing a wide range of activities that are for people with different ability and interest levels. Our homes are also designed with safe outdoor walking spaces and garden with the needs of those with Alzheimer’s in mind.

A big piece of advice is to do your best to plan ahead of time to make the transition as smooth as possible – don’t wait until it feels like you’re out of options or until it presents a stressful situation for those who are suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia. Call our offices to schedule a tour of Safe Haven Assisted Living and discuss how we can help you and your loved one.

Senior Foot Health And Why It’s So Important

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senior foot health atlanta

Mobility is a vital ingredient to self-sufficiency, making the foot ailments that often trouble seniors particularly worrisome. While it may not come to mind as a major health concern, poor foot health can severely impact a person’s ability to live alone, work and engage in social activities.

Observing preventive foot health care has many benefits. At the top of the list is that it can increase comfort, limit the possibility of additional medical problems, and reduce the chances of hospitalization because of infection.

Here are some tips for keeping feet healthy:

Wear Shoes That Fit Properly
Many people don’t wear shoes that properly fit them or support their feet. Shop for shoes in the afternoon so you can avoid choosing shoes that are too small for your feet that swell during the day.

Regularly Take Walks
This is ultimately the best exercise for your feet.

Wear Seam-Free Socks
This will help with preventing any skin irritations from developing on your skin.

Have Corns & Calluses Professionally Treated
Never cut corns and calluses with a razor, pocket knife. Only use over-the-counter foot products with the advice of a podiatrist.

Bathe & Inspect Feet Daily
Apply lukewarm water and mild soap to keep your feet free of any dirt on a daily basis. If you notice any redness, swelling, cracks in your skin consult your podiatrist.

If you or your loved one needs assistance with foot care or any additional health care and support, contact Safehaven Senior Living here. We provide 24/7 assistance in Atlanta that will keep your loved one happy and healthy!

Senior Sun Safety in Atlanta

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Summer weather in Atlanta, Georgia is great for relaxing with family and friends. Too much outdoor time for seniors, however, can lead to problems like sunburn or dehydration. By taking a few precautions, these problems could be avoided so you can get the most out of long summer days.

Wear the proper summer clothing
The best summertime clothing for seniors is lightweight and made out of breathable fabric such as cotton. Shirts should be long-sleeved, and seniors should wear wide-brimmed hats.

Apply sunscreen early and often
Sunscreen takes time to work, so doing wait until you’re poolside to apply sunscreen. Try to use sunscreen about an hour before you head outside and reapply every two hours.

Drink plenty of fluids
Seniors are less likely to feel thirsty, and dehydration can come on unexpectedly. Try to drink between six and eight glasses of water a day, especially on days involving physical activity, or if the weather is particularly hot.

Stay indoors during the hottest hours
The sun is most intense during the middle of the day. Save activities like gardening or walking for the early morning or evening when the weather is cooler.

Weather can get extremely hot during the summer in Georgia. Do your best to follow these tips so you can get the most out of your time outdoors this year. Our assisted living community offers gardening programs, great outdoor recreational areas, and plenty of seats in the shade. Contact us today to schedule a tour of Safehaven Senior Living.