Senior Living Archives - Mobility Center

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Written by webtechs

6 January 2023

Aging Parents Checklist

There are many different items to figure out when you are caring for an aging loved one. Follow our complete checklist below.

Caregiving Checklist

Care is the first part of creating a checklist for your aging loved one. It must be noted, though, that you will likely have to make some care adjustments throughout the years. Here a few care considerations below.

❒ Put every family member’s caregiving role in writing. Make sure all members agree to this plan ahead of time.

❒ If your loved one’s health becomes a serious issue, figure out what to do with any pets, if applicable.

❒ Regularly meet with your loved one’s doctor to evaluate their mental and physical conditions.

❒ Discuss various care options, such as independent, assisted and memory care communities.

Healthcare Checklist

Understanding your loved one’s medical needs is another step towards proper care. Work with your loved one to develop a plan regarding health and medical concerns.

❒ Fill out paperwork at the doctor’s office while discussing all medical records with a professional.

❒ Provide transportation to and from the doctor’s office for your loved one.

❒ Make sure he/she is taking the appropriate medications and getting refills when needed.

Legal Checklist

A difficult part of the aging process is dealing with all necessary legal matters.

❒ Become an authorized user on their accounts, allowing you to pay regular bills on their behalf.

❒ Help your loved one with necessary legal documents.

❒ Gather all important documents, such as birth certificate, deeds to property, citizenship papers, insurance policies, death certificate of spouse or parent, marriage certificate, pensions benefits and so on.

❒ Ask your loved one to grant you power of attorney so you can make decisions on their behalf.

❒ Meet with an elder law specialist to help manage and protect assets.

Financial Checklist

Below are a few things to be mindful of when getting a loved one’s affairs in order.

❒ Go over retirement and insurance plans thoroughly.

❒ Investigate public benefits like Medicare, Medicaid and other programs.

❒ Look for any applicable tax breaks.

Home Safety Checklist

It’s crucial to make sure the senior’s home is as safe as possible. Follow this checklist below.

Kitchen Safety

❒ Keep a sturdy stool in the kitchen area.

❒ Make sure all frequently used items are located on the lower shelves.

Bedroom Safety

❒ All lighting should be within reach of the bed.

❒ Use nightlights to keep pathways illuminated during the nighttime.

Stair Safety

❒ Immediately fix any broken or uneven steps.

❒ Have sufficient lighting surrounding all staircases.

❒ Remove any loose objects.

❒ Install handrails on both sides of the staircases.

❒ Light switches should be located at the top and bottom of the staircases.

Bathroom Safety

❒ Install grab bars around the toilet.

❒ Tub/shower flooring should be secured with nonstick rubber mats.

❒ Install grab bars for safe tub/shower entry and exit.

Floor Safety

❒ All walkways should be free of loose objects.

❒ Nonslip backing should secure all rugs and carpets.

❒ Ensure all wires are coiled or taped securely to walls.

Mobility Center In Mesa, Arizona

Mobility Center has been proudly serving the entire Phoenix, Arizona area since 1975 with the finest in mobility aids, scooters, wheel chairs, lifts and support equipment. Visit our convenient location to see the products and receive the individual attention that you deserve. Our service area includes Mesa, Apache Junction, Tempe, Chandler, Scottsdale, Phoenix, Glendale, Surprise, and Sun City.

Aging Parents, Senior Living

Regular Post

Written by webtechs

2 October 2022

Easy Crafts For Seniors With Dementia

Below are five easy crafts for seniors suffering from dementia. These tasks are designed to stimulate and engage the mind.

Best Crafts For Elderly With Dementia

Make sure to choose activities that do not have a right and wrong way of doing things when coming up with fun craft ideas. These activities are designed to engage and encourage your loved one suffering from dementia. Fun and engaging crafts have been proven to reduce both depression and agitation. Safety always comes first with these crafts, so be sure to eliminate any potential injury risks and dangers. Try one of these five activities below.

1. Make A Scrapbook

This activity typically requires the most supplies of any other craft on the list. You will need to provide your loved one with catalogs, notebooks, magazines, newspapers and a pair of scissors. Have the individual sort through all the literature and cut out any words, pictures or letters that interest them. Piece this all together at the end.

Supplies Needed:

Catalogs, notebooks, newspapers, magazines
Scissors
Glue stick

2. Fun With Homemade Play Dough

Every age group can have fun with some homemade play dough. Let your loved one’s creativity take control with this fun activity. Pick up a few cookie cutters for this craft ahead of time. Remember to store the play dough anywhere but the fridge, if possible. Stay away from any toxic play dough mixes, as well. Add a few drops of essential oils to make this craft even more relaxing.

Supplies Needed:

Play dough
Cookie cutters
Essential oils

3. Arrange Flowers

Especially for individuals who loved gardening, this can be a very pleasing activity to take part in. Arranging flowers in any way can take them back to a happier time in their life while letting them flex their creative muscles, at the same time. Loved ones typically enjoy partaking in this activity, as well.

Supplies Needed:

Artificial flowers
Florist foam
Plastic vase

4. Attach Pipes And Fittings

Many elderly citizens certainly enjoyed doing some handywork as homeowners. These sorts of tasks have been able to do wonders for a senior’s self-esteem and morale. It’s important to always encourage these individuals to perform tasks that bring back positive memories. Gather a few lengths of PVC piping and fittings for this simple task.

Supplies Needed:

PVC piping
Fittings
Elbows
T-joints

5. Magnetic Letters

Spread out all sorts of magnetic letters on a baking sheet and watch what words your loved one comes up with. This task should really get the mind moving. A good way to do this task is by having your loved one arrange the letters by color or shape.

Supplies Needed:

Magnetic letters
Baking sheet

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Regular Post

Written by webtechs

27 July 2022

Retiring In Arizona Pros And Cons

So many retirees find Arizona appealing for its great weather, beautiful scenery and strong economy. Let’s look at some pros and cons of retiring in the valley of the sun! Retiring in Arizona Pros and Cons are below.

Pro #1: Most Sun In The U.S.

Arizonans see more sun than anyone in the U.S. This is fact, stemming directly from a report by the NOAA (The United States National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration). There is a reason why they call it the valley of the sun after all! Even the sunshine state of Florida receives less sunlight overall than Arizona.

Pro #2: Low Cost Of Living

Arizona is more affordable to live in than most other states these days, in addition to boasting a very strong economy. Chances are you’ll pay less in Arizona whether you are looking for a three-bedroom home or a studio apartment. Your financial future will be secure in the valley with low costs of living and a booming job market.

Pro #3: Fewer Tax Burdens

To go along with the low cost of living overall, Arizonans also enjoy fewer tax burdens than most other states. Arizona allows residents to keep as much of their hard earned money in their pocket as possible. Some states collect from citizens in more ways than just high income taxes. These include taxes on gas or even the sale of alcoholic beverages, which the state can use for a variety of purposes.

Pro #4: Sports

Sports fanatics will love the valley of the sun for its year-round offering of events. Arizona has all four major sports taking place around the Phoenix area, including the NFL’s Cardinals, NBA’s Suns, MLB’s Diamondbacks and NHL’s Coyotes. Arizona is also home to numerous spring training sites for professional baseball teams.

Pro #5: Scenery

Everyone knows about the landmarks, such as the Grand Canyon and Horseshoe Bend. While tourists flock to these destinations, the natives get to enjoy breathtaking scenery and sunsets each and every day. Enjoy the beautiful red rocks of Sedona, mountains and lakes all across the state.

Con #1: Snowbirds

A lot of retirees flock to Arizona because it seems so secluded and isolated. While this may be true for some parts of the year, the state definitely becomes crowded in the wintertime. During the cooler months, thousands of tourists or “snowbirds” come to the valley of the sun. You will undoubtedly notice an increase in traffic from October to April.

Con #2: Higher Crime Rate

Unfortunately, Arizona has a higher crime rate than most other states, according to FBI data. The good news is there are plenty of safe, gated neighborhoods in the most desirable cities in the state, including Scottsdale and Paradise Valley.

Con #3: The Heat

The heat during the summer months can still come as a bit of a surprise to most newcomers. While the colder months offer ideal conditions for outdoor activities, the summers can feature some triple-digit temperatures. Consider moving north of Phoenix to enjoy milder conditions all throughout the year.

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Regular Post

Written by webtechs

8 April 2022

Why Should Senior Citizens Perform Balance Exercises

Unfortunately, falls are the leading cause of injury among senior citizens today. Falls can cause brain injuries and even accidental deaths. That’s why performing balance exercises are crucial for seniors to maintain their physical health.

The Importance Of Balance Exercises For Seniors

Having good balance is crucial to preventing falls. According to the CDC, more than 9,000 seniors die each year due to at-home falls. Regular exercise, along with a good diet, are two of the best ways to ensure you stay healthy as you age. Thankfully, there are many different balance exercises, perfect for seniors of all sorts of physical conditions.

Senior citizens should choose a balance exercise program that will work for the long haul, anticipating changes in physique. Exercises can be more than just fall prevention tactics. These activities can be great for getting outdoors or socializing. For many people exercise is a good way to meditate, as well. Undoubtedly, regular exercise is a gateway to better mental and physical health.

Decreased Risk Of Falls

Regular balance exercises can greatly diminish a senior’s risk for falling. Unfortunately, seniors citizens are at a much greater risk of falling and injuring themselves than any other age bracket. Any exercise performed to decrease falls risks will also likely increase one’s ability to continue living independently.

Injuries resulting from falls can lead to broken bones, chronic issues and a lower quality of life overall. Exercises like yoga or Tai Chi are ideal for seniors because they are engaging and practical.

Prevents Disease

Disease prevention is another reason why so many seniors perform daily exercises. In fact, performing these exercises regularly can decrease your risk of heart disease, diabetes and cancer.

Regular exercise has been proven to boost immune function in part by transferring lymph fluids throughout the body. Even a light exercise like walking can move the lymph fluids in order to keep immunity functioning at a high level.

Benefits Of Balance Exercises

There are numerous benefits of performing balance exercises, including all of the following:

Get Better Sleep

Plenty of exercise during the day will undoubtedly help seniors sleep better at night. This is crucial for seniors who may already be battling irregular sleep patterns. Exercise will alert the body to the time of the day and help maintain a healthy circadian rhythm. Going outdoors to get sun while exercising will help regulate sleeping patterns, as well.

Increase Muscle Mass

Just like younger individuals working out to improve muscle mass, this same benefit can be enjoyed by seniors doing balance exercises. Muscle mass helps to reduce the blow of any painful falls. Older individuals with more muscle mass and stronger arms may even be able to catch themselves before hitting the ground.

Better Cognitive Function

It’s a fact that people who exercise regularly have better overall brain function. Exercise will promote the release of certain neurotransmitters that keep the brain healthy. Cognitive clarity and sharpness can help seniors avoid any precarious situations.

Reduced Risk Of Falling

This is perhaps the biggest benefit for senior citizens. Avoiding at-home falls is crucial to preserving your body and health. Balances exercises are simply the best way to avoid falls and injuries. Over time, these exercises will only add further health benefits.

Better Coordination

Like balance, coordination, is something that far too many people take for granted. Good coordination could help a senior in distress to roll instead of crash when falling. Often, coordination will happen without conscious thought or effort.

Best Balance Exercises For Seniors

Here are 7 great balance exercises to try at home:

Balance Walk

Start by raising your arms up to shoulder height.
Focus on one point to maintain steadiness as you walk.
Step forward by placing your heel just in front of the foot you moved forward.
Repeat this action for 20 steps.

Bag Leg Raises

Grip a sturdy chair for balance.
Slowly breathe in before beginning this exercise.
Breathe out slowly, as you lift one leg without bending your knee or pointing your toes.
Refrain from leaning forward.
Hold this position for a few seconds.
Breathe in when lowering your leg.
Repeat this action 10-15 times.
Do the same motion 10-15 times with the opposite leg now.

Side Leg Raises

Again, grip a chair to steady yourself.
Stand with your feet slightly apart.
Slowly breathe in before exercising.
Keep your back straight and toes pointing forward.
Now breathe out while lifting one leg out to the side.
Slightly bend the leg you are standing on.
Repeat this action 10-15 times.
Do the same with the opposite leg.
Repeat the action 10-15 times.

Tree Pose

Start in a standing position.
Shift your weight onto your left foot.
Position your right foot to the side with your heel lifted.
You could place the sole of your foot against your ankle, shin, or thigh, instead.
Hold for up to 1 minute.
Do the same action with the opposite side.

Tightrope Walk

Lifting your arms, extend them out to your sides.
Walk a straight line all while focusing on a fixed point off in the distance.
Pause with your foot in the air for 2-3 seconds with each step.
Take 20-30 steps total.

Rock The Boat

Stand while keeping your feet hip-distance apart.
Lift and extend your arms out to the sides.
Lift your left foot off the floor.
Bend your knee and bring your heel towards your bottom.
Hold the pose for 30 seconds.
Do the same action on the opposite side.
Do sets of 3 on each side.

Single Foot Balance

You will need a balance board for this exercise.
Stand with your right foot in the center of the balance board.
Raise your left foot and knee as high as you can.
Hold for 30 seconds.
Repeat on the opposite side.
Do both sides 2-3 times.

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Written by webtechs

7 April 2022

Checklist For Elderly Living Alone

Are you looking for a complete checklist for elderly living alone? Use our guide below.

Have Sufficient Lighting In The Home

Any home lacking a sufficient amount of lighting will greatly increase the risk of falling. Keep all walkways and staircases well-lit during the night and day. One great solution for this issue is to install nightlights throughout the home. It’s also possible to install some wireless motion sensor lights in bedrooms and bathrooms. Ensure the lighting is strong enough without causing your eyes to strain.

Remove Any Tripping Hazards

An estimated 9,000 seniors die each year from at-home falls, according to data recorded by the CDC. You can minimize any tripping risks by removing all loose objects from the flooring. Make sure all wires and cords are securely coiled or placed against the wall. Rugs and carpets should never be loose. Secure them by applying some nonslip backing.

Fire Safety Precautions

Fires are another unfortunate risk, especially for seniors living on their own. Begin the fire prevention process by putting a smoke detector and fire extinguisher on every floor of the home. Test them regularly to ensure they are in working order. All doors and windows need to be easy to open from the inside, as well.

Fall Prevention Checklist

With falls being the biggest concern for the elderly, we’ve created a checklist below to help make sure your home is as safe as can be.

Kitchen Safety

1. ❒ Keep a sturdy stool in the kitchen area.

2. ❒ Make sure all frequently used items are located on the lower shelves.

Bedroom Safety

1. ❒ All lighting should be within reach of the bed.

2. ❒ Use nightlights to keep pathways illuminated during the nighttime.

Stair Safety

1. ❒ Immediately fix any broken or uneven steps.

2. ❒ Have sufficient lighting surrounding all staircases.

3. ❒ Remove any loose objects.

4. ❒ Install handrails on both sides of the staircases.

5. ❒ Light switches should be located at the top and bottom of the staircases.

Bathroom Safety

1. ❒ Install grab bars around the toilet.

2. ❒ Tub/shower flooring should be secured with nonstick rubber mats.

3. ❒ Install grab bars for safe tub/shower entry and exit.

Floor Safety

1. ❒ All walkways should be free of loose objects.

2. ❒ Nonslip backing should secure all rugs and carpets.

3. ❒ Ensure all wires are coiled or taped securely to walls.

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2 March 2022

Does Medicare Cover Shower Chairs?

The elderly are very much at-risk for falls and other injuries at home. This calls for various devices and pieces of equipment to keep you safe at all times. One of the items may be a shower chair. Shower chairs are currently classified as Durable Medical Equipment (DME), so depending on balance and mobility issues that have been diagnosed, these chairs may or may not be covered by Medicare insurance.

Medicare Coverage For Shower Chairs

Medicare provides coverage for DME items only if the items meet specific criteria. The criteria is set by Medicare Part B, which covers preventative services, outpatient costs and some medical equipment, according to MedicareBenefits. For a shower chair to be covered by Part B benefits, the chair must be intended for use inside the home, be able to be used multiple times, potentially last for at least three years and necessary for a specific medical reason.

Additionally, the shower chair needs to be prescribed by your physician. Once the physician grants the approval, it is his/her responsibility to work with a Medicare-approved DME supplier to then obtain the chair and ensure Medicare coverage. Any patient must use both a physician and supplier that has been approved by Medicare and accepts Medicare assignment during this process.

Even after all requirements have been met, it’s important to understand that Medicare does not typically deem shower chairs to be a medically necessary item. If, for instance, you are in a nursing facility or hospital, you will have access to a shower chair, if needed. Stays in these facilities will be partially covered by Medicare Part A.

However, you may be more likely to get coverage for a shower chair if you have a Medicare Advantage plan. The plan must cover at least the same as Original Medicare Part A and B, but it can provide additional coverage. This coverage can include some over-the-counter allowances, which could cover an item such as a shower chair.

If you feel as though you have a medical condition that calls for usage of a shower chair, talk to your physician about this first. At this time, they will be able to assess your needs and determine if your specific Medicare plan will offer coverage for a shower chair.

Guidelines For Durable Medical Equipment

The meaning of Durable Medical Equipment is strictly and exclusively defined by Medicare Part B coverage. Equipment needs to meet specific criteria to be eligible for coverage, including the following:

Used for specific medical reason.
Intended for at-home use.
Ability to be used repeatedly.
Expected to last at least 2-3 years.

In addition, DME needs to be prescribed by a doctor. The supplier and doctor must participate in Medicare and accept assignment, as detailed above. It is possible that the patient will be responsible for copayments or coinsurance. Your Part B deductible will apply, according to Medicare.

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16 February 2022

Best Shower Chair For Elderly

Are you looking for the best shower chairs available for the elderly? We’ve highlighted some of the best products below.

Best Shower Chairs For The Elderly

As you age, you lose lots of mobility. This can make bathing a dangerous process to attempt for elderly citizens who live alone. Falls, especially while in the shower, can result in serious injuries. Fortunately, these shower chairs listed below can provide much-needed stability for seniors in the shower. Let’s take a look at 10 of the best shower chairs on the market.

1. Drive Medical Shower Chair (With Back)

For starters, this is the most basic shower chair you can find on the market today. Made of aluminum, the Drive Medical chair is lightweight and corrosion-proof. Constructing this chair is very simple and it requires no tools at all. Suction-style tips will keep the chair securely in place once in the shower. Each leg on the chair can be adjusted by one-inch increments.

Features:

Lightweight.
Adjustable chair legs.
Easy assembly.
Corrosion-proof.

2. Carex Bath Seat

Comfort is the main selling point with the Carex bath seat. This chair lets you enjoy the shower, while keeping you safe and secure at the same time. It can be adjusted by heights with no tools required for the process. The Carex bath seat can be quickly disassembled and stored for your convenience. Designed to fit most showers and bathtubs, it can also work well in curved tubs. It can support up to 400 pounds.

Features:

Adjustable by height.
Ease of disassembly.
Supports up to 400 pounds.
Fits curved tubs.

3. Medline Antimicrobial Tub Transfer Branch

This is an excellent option for a senior citizen nursing some sort of lower body injury. Two legs of this chair can be placed inside the tub with the other two legs outside the tub. This makes it incredibly easy to transfer in and out of the shower without putting pressure on injured body parts. In addition, the backrest is reversible so you can enter the tub in any direction possible.

Features:

Reversible backrest.
Adjustable legs.
Can hold up to 350 pounds.
Lightweight.

4. Vaunn Medical Shower Lift Chair

For the busy senior, this chair is perfect. The Vaunn Medical chair is designed for travel purposes, weighing just 8 pounds. It can extend and retract its legs, depending on the needs of the individual. Separate leg extensions are available for purchase and it comes with a detachable back. The contoured seat base will keep you comfortable throughout the bathing process.

Features:

Lightweight.
Easy to transport.
Detachable backrest.
Adjustable.

5. Drive Medical Premium Shower Chair

This chair designed by Drive Medical will keep you comfortable in the shower. Its unique threaded leg adjustment system will give you the ability to increase the height in half-inch increments. Another plus is the chair is made entirely of plastic, meaning it will never rust. Removable arms and backrest come with this chair, which weighs only 8 pounds. The armrests can double as handles, making this an easy chair to transport.

Features:

Lightweight.
Easy to transport.
Will not rust over time.
Adjustable by height.

6. Azadx Bath Chair

This high-quality chair is constructed of aluminum alloy and leather. It maximizes an individual’s comfort by being both height adjustable and reversible. Assembly of this chair can be done quickly without the use of tools. The chair comes complete with drainage holes to prevent any possible slippage. A sturdy A-frame will also prevent falls.

Features:

Reversible.
Prevents falls.
Height adjustable.
Easy assembly.

7. NOVA Medical Bath Seat (With Arms)

This chair differs from most other models because it features flat feet. This can be an enormous benefit based on the type of shower/tub you are using. Some chairs with suction cups will not work well in showers that have heavily textured bottoms or slanted sides. Even though these chairs only weigh 7 pounds, they are capable of supporting up to 300 pounds.

Features:

Flat feet.
Lightweight.
Can support 300 pounds.
Drainage holes.

8. Carex Universal Bath Seat And Shower Chair

Of course, supporting up to 300 pounds may not be enough for everyone. That’s where the Carex universal bath seat comes in! This shower chair can hold up to 400 pounds and features non-slip rubber feet. Sitting down and standing up is no longer a potential safety concern for larger individuals with this chair.

Features:

Supports up to 400 pounds.
Non-slip rubber feet.
No tools needed for assembly.
Lightweight.

9. Vive Shower Chair (With Back)

This wide seat supports up to 300 pounds with padded handles on each side. This feature allows for easy access in and out of the tub. A larger adjustable range ensures that this chair will work for anyone, tall or short.

Features:

No tools needed for assembly.
Large adjustable range.
Drainage holes.
Padded handles.

10. Pcp Padded Bath Shower Safety Seat

This seat specializes in keeping your loved one safe in the tub. The Pcp seat makes showering safe and comfortable. Non-slip feet will grip even the slickest of shower floors, preventing any potential spills. The seat top and backrest is padded.

Features:

Smaller design.
Lightweight.
Grips to any floor.
Padded seat and backrest.

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10 February 2022

7 Stages Of Lewy Body Dementia

Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) can either develop slowly over time or quickly when combined with other brain disorders. LBD is one of the most common forms of dementia currently, according to nia.nih.gov. On average, LBD does take a long time to start drastically altering an individual’s life. A typical lifespan of someone suffering from LBD is between 5-8 years. However, some recent studies have concluded living 2-20 years with LBD is possible.

Early Signs Of Lewy Body Dementia

Typically, LBD is identified by three stages: early, middle and late. The first few signs of this disease may include mild delusions or hallucinations. Individuals may act out dreams while they are sleeping. Slight movement difficulty has been noticed as an early sign of LBD, as well.

Memory will stay intact for the most part during the early stages, yet moments of confusion are common. Slight cognitive changes can be noticed early on. Below are details on the 7 stages of LBD.

Stage 1: No Noticeable Changes

The first stage of LBD will typically go unnoticed by friends and family. The individual suffering from LBD will exhibit no signs of the disease, which will seemingly have zero impact on their daily life.

Stage 1 Symptoms:

No signs of LBD.

Stage 2: Mild Changes

Stage 2, much like the first stage, will result in little to no changes in the individual’s personality/behavior. At this point in time, memory issues may simply be passed off as a normal part of aging.

Stage 2 Symptoms:

Some difficulty finding the right words.
Normal functioning inside/outside the home.
Demonstrates ability to overcome memory issues.

Stage 3: Noticeable Behavior Changes

Stage 3 is typically the stage where behavior changes will become noticeable. Friends and family will be able to see changes in the loved one’s thinking, reasoning and actions. Memory issues will persist at this point.

Stage 3 Symptoms:

Forgetfulness.
Problems at the workplace, if applicable.
Difficult time paying attention.
Trouble recalling names.
Money management issues.

Stage 4: Mild Dementia

Individuals enduring stage 4 of LBD will still be able to recall friends, family and past events, despite persistent struggles with mild dementia.

Stage 4 Symptoms:

Forgetting names and items.
Issues with daily routines.
Forgetting important life moments.
Driving issues.

Stage 5: Moderate To Severe Decline

During stage 5, individuals will likely still remember friends and family, but memory issues will intensify. At this point, individuals may need assistance performing routine daily tasks.

Stage 5 Symptoms:

Personality changes.
Mood swings.
Memory gaps.
Repeating same things.
Bladder issues.

Stage 6: Severe Mental Decline

Memories will begin to fade quickly during this LBD stage. It is strongly recommended to hire someone for round-the-clock home care.

Stage 6 Symptoms:

Unusual eating habits.
Getting lost/confused.
Lack of awareness.
Delusions.
Strong mood swings.
Trouble speaking.

Stage 7: Final Stage LBD

Sadly, the individual suffering from LBD will no longer recognize friends and family during this final stage. 24-hour care is necessary.

Stage 7 Symptoms:

Loss of ability to eat, swallow and speak.
Bathroom assistance needed.
Loss of bladder/bowel control.
Bed ridden.

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3 January 2022

Levels Of Care For Elderly

There are currently six levels of elderly care available. Let’s take a look at the differences between each living situation.

In-Home Care

Often referred to as “aging in place”, this level of care is designed for seniors who need help in and around the home. The majority of these seniors, though, still possess necessary mental and physical capabilities to carry out most daily tasks. Seniors enlisting the help of in-home care can expect daily check-ins, personal care assistance and help with any medications.

For most seniors staying at home in a comfortable environment is the most appealing care option available. The one and seemingly only drawback to in-home care is that this situation does not tend to last very long. Seniors with this care typically move onto other care options, such as independent and assisted living communities, pretty quickly.

Independent Living

Independent living is meant for seniors that are 55 or older, with many living options like apartments, free-standing homes and communities. This form of senior housing allows for seniors to get around easily, while all maintenance and groundwork is taken care of by the staff.

Most independent living communities provide residents with activities, programs and various amenities. Typically, these communities will also feature a recreation center or clubhouse where seniors can interact with one another. Residents may also expect plenty of arts and crafts, holiday celebrations and other activities.

Assisted Living

The largest difference between independent and assisted living is the amount of attention and care provided. Staff in assisted living settings will be far more attentive to the residents. Assisted living will include daily services like laundry, housekeeping, bathing and medical care. Most communities will be staffed 24/7/365.

Cost is another big difference between assisted and independent communities. Assisted living tends to be more expensive due to the amount of care that is provided. Most of the costs associated with independent communities are rent and utilities.

Respite Care

Respite care is seen as the perfect compromise for those who are apprehensive about moving into a larger care community. Simply put, respite care is recommended for seniors currently in transition. Respite care could last a short or long time, depending on the senior’s overall health. This can be viewed as a bit of a test run before a senior moves into a care community full-time.

Memory Care

Memory care services are typically offered in assisted living facilities/communities. Offering the standard care services, memory care communities are also required to have safe and secure outdoor areas for residents to enjoy. Most communities will have specialized programs to promote stable routines and therapeutic activities for residents. Due to the enhanced security measures and care, memory care tends to cost about 25% more than assisted living communities.

Nursing Home Care

This is the most concentrated living situation for today’s seniors. Featuring more invasive care than any other living arrangement listed above, nursing home care is recommended for individuals with declining health and frequent medical needs.

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20 December 2021

How Much Does It Cost To Build A Wheelchair Ramp?

On average, a professionally built wheelchair ramp costs $2,061, with prices ranging between $1,012-$3,160, according to HomeAdvisor. You can expect to pay anywhere from $100-$250 per linear foot, depending on labor costs and materials chosen for the project. Standard ramps are typically 30 feet long, 30 inches high and 30 inches wide.

Average Cost To Build A Wheelchair Ramp

Including labor, materials and overall difficulty of the project, the average total cost to a build a wheelchair ramp is between $1,000-$3,000. In larger cities the total cost may double for this build, with materials costing up to 20% more. Expensive materials combined with larger heights needed for the ramp could put the project cost between $4,000-$6,000.

While most costs come at a standard rate, labor prices will obviously vary by contractor. Wooden wheelchair ramps can be constructed by carpenters for a typical rate of $70 per hour. A concrete unit will require the efforts of a mason or handyman, usually costing an average of $75 per hour. Make sure any contractor you hire is insured, experienced and familiar with ADA regulations.

Wheelchair Ramp Material Prices Per Linear Foot

Wood: $100-$250
Concrete: $200-$250
Aluminum: $150
Prefabricated Aluminum: $100
Steel/Metal: $200-$250

Wheelchair Ramp Cost Factors

Here are a few factors that could cause the price to either increase or decrease:

Calculating slope
Weight
Landings
Handrail installation
Grit Strips
Permits

Calculating Slope

Slope is the biggest safety concern when installing a wheelchair ramp. A ramp that is particularly steep can result in individuals tipping and falling backwards. Keep in mind the possibility of inclement weather, such as rain and snow. The lower the slope, the safer the ramp tends to be for anyone using it.

Weight

Ramps can be designed for both manual and electric wheelchairs. Be sure to talk to the contractor about how you plan to use your ramp. Improper units are commonly the result of inaccurate weight specifications. Opt for a stronger material to support more weight, which will result in a longer construction time.

Landings

Flat and level landings are necessary on both sides of the wheelchair ramp. These landings will allow for safe stopping and doorway openings. If there is no landing at the bottom, it will be nearly impossible for the individual to open the door. Landings need to be, at least, as wide as the ramp itself. This often measures to a minimum of 60 inches. A 60-inch length by 60-inch width should create an effective landing platform.

Handrail Installation

Ramps that exceed certain regulations will require the installation of a handrail, which will increase the cost of the project. Anyone constructing this as a DIY project can expect to pay around $300 for metal rails.

Grit Strips

Ramps built out of wood or metal can become slippery when wet. Consider purchasing grit strips for your wheelchair ramp. For just $15-$30 per standard 2 x 60 roll, grit strips are affordable and effective. Grit tape can quickly bond permanently to almost any surface.

Permits

The last costs to account for are attaining any necessary permits for the ramp build. Check with your local building office to see if any permits are required prior to installation. If needed, permits typically cost between $30-$120.

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