by Greg Deris

I was recently speaking with an assisted living industry financial expert, and our conversation turned to why people choose a specific assisted living community over others in their area. Our conversation was helpful as I work to continue educating others on choosing the best assisted living facility for themselves or their loved ones. I hope that relaying our conversation may help you navigate a more successful but difficult journey.

Assisted Living Facilities: Is It Really About Aesthetics?

Most people start their evaluation of a senior living community with the real estate component. This is usually done verbally with questions, but sometimes it’s a silent observation.

• How big is the room?
• Do I like the layout?
• Is it clean, free from odors?
• Do I like the color scheme?

Then, the questions expand from there.

The focus is on what’s observed, the likes and dislikes. In essence, our senses lead the way. This is how we usually evaluate a home or apartment to move into or to build a house.

While these things may be important, they are secondary to the reason people began their search for assisted living in the first place. It seems instinctively that we look at the familiar and find our comfort zone, but based on observation with our senses.

We assume you are on a tour at this point, but phone inquiries are not much different. How big are the rooms, how much does it cost? Questions that may be important but, again, are secondary.

The Why Behind Choosing An Assisted Living Community

Ask yourself, why am I searching in the first place? Is the care becoming more difficult to manage, too expensive? Are medicine issues beginning to manifest; are there fall/incident events, recurrent hospitalizations, cleanliness and diet issues, socialization or safety concerns or just need a place to rehab temporarily?

Now, let’s get back to the why. The primary questions need to address your specific issues. So please re-read the previous paragraph.

Are you asking the right questions?

Are you focusing on the questions that directly address your issues? 

What brings you to make this call or to tour?

It is unrealistic to expect an inquirer for assisted living or long-term care services to know all the right questions to ask or even if this is a good fit until a number of important questions are asked about or to your mom, dad or loved one. This will help ensure a clearer understanding of your needs—needs relevant to the medical issues and the health and well-being of the person requiring services.

There’s a saying that goes, “Bodies in motion stay in motion.” This is especially true for seniors who need to stay active and maintain their overall health and well-being. 

Here at St. Francis Villa in River Ridge, we’re passionate about helping our residents stay active – regardless of age or ability. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 7 great exercises that are perfect for seniors to stay healthy and active.

1. Walking

Yeah, it’s basic, but it’s true. Walking is one of the best exercises for seniors because it’s low-impact, can be done anywhere, and doesn’t require any special equipment. Start with short walks around your neighborhood and gradually increase your distance and pace over time.

To get more strategic, here are some tips on incorporating walking into your daily routine –  and make it fun!

• Take a scenic route: Switch up your walking route by exploring different parks or trails in your area. This can make your walks more interesting and enjoyable.
• Join a walking group: Many communities have senior walking groups that meet regularly to walk together. This is a great way to make new friends while staying active.
• Use a pedometer or fitness tracker: Keep track of your progress and set goals for yourself by using a pedometer or fitness tracker. Aim for 10,000 steps per day!

The goal is to keep moving while taking in the fresh air and enjoying your surroundings. Walking has been shown to not only help cardiovascular health, but promote brain health as well.

2. Tai Chi

Tai Chi is a form of low-impact, slow-moving exercise that has been practiced in China for centuries. It involves a series of gentle movements and postures that can improve balance, flexibility, and muscle strength. Tai Chi has also been found to reduce stress levels and promote relaxation.

Many community centers and senior centers offer tai chi classes specifically designed for seniors. You can also find instructional videos online or through DVD programs to practice at home.

Here’s a basic tai chi exercise you can try:

1. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and knees slightly bent.
2. Slowly raise your arms up to chest level, keeping them relaxed and palms facing down.
3. As you inhale, shift your weight to your left leg and slowly lift your right heel off the ground.
4. Exhale and lower your right heel back down as you shift your weight back to both legs.
5. Repeat on the other side, lifting your left heel while shifting weight to the right leg.

Continue alternating sides for a few minutes, coordinating each movement with deep breaths in and out. If you ever find the movements too complex or uncomfortable, you can modify them to suit your abilities.

3. Water Aerobics

Water aerobics is an excellent form of exercise for seniors, especially those who may have joint pain or difficulty with traditional exercises. The water provides buoyancy and reduces the impact on your joints, making it easier to move without stressing your body.

• Water walking: Walk in the pool’s shallow end, either in a circle or back and forth. Increase intensity by adding arm movements.
• Water jogging: Similar to water walking, but with a faster pace and higher knees.
• Leg lifts: Stand next to the pool wall, holding onto it for balance. Lift one leg out to the side, then lower it back down. Repeat on the other side.
• Bicycle kicks: Hold onto the pool edge and kick your legs as if riding a bike.
• Arm circles: Stand in chest-deep water and make small circles with your arms outstretched at shoulder level.

4. Chair Stretches

If you have trouble standing or moving around, chair stretches can be a great way to improve your flexibility and range of motion. All you need is a sturdy chair with armrests.

Here are some simple chair stretches for seniors:

• Shoulder rolls: Sit upright in the chair and roll your shoulders forward, then up, back, and down in a circular motion. Repeat several times.
• Neck stretch: Sit tall and slowly tilt your head to one side until you feel a gentle stretch on the other side of your neck. Hold for a few seconds, then repeat on the other side.
• Chest opener: Place your hands behind your head and gently press your elbows back as you open your chest. Hold for a few seconds, then release.
• Seated twist: Sit with your feet planted flat on the ground and twist your upper body to one side, using the armrest for support. Hold for a few seconds, then repeat on the other side.

Remember to listen to your body while performing these stretches and only go as far as is comfortable. Regular practice can help improve your flexibility and make everyday activities easier.

As we age, going from a reactive to a proactive approach to our health is key. Not only do risks factors for certain health conditions increase as we get older, but early detection and treatment can also greatly improve outcomes. 

At St. Francis Villa, we understand that proactive preventive care lays the foundation for happier, healthier years ahead.

Our commitment to supporting your best life doesn’t stop at providing exceptional assisted living services. We also aim to be a trusted resource, empowering you with knowledge about essential health screenings recommended for seniors. After all, early detection and timely intervention can make a profound difference in managing age-related health concerns.

In this guide, we’ll break down these vital health tests, sharing wisdom cultivated from over a century of combined experience in senior care.

Preventive Care Essentials

Establishing a strong foundation for senior health begins with routine screenings that check for some of the most common age-related conditions. At St. Francis Villa, we believe these preventive care essentials should be on every senior’s radar:

Blood Pressure Monitoring

With risks like heart disease and stroke increasing as we age, regular blood pressure checks (annually or more frequent for those with hypertension) are crucial. Catching high blood pressure early allows for timely management.

Cholesterol Screenings

High cholesterol can contribute to plaque buildup in arteries, raising cardiovascular risks. Regular cholesterol tests (every 4-6 years for normal levels) enable prevention through diet, exercise, and medication if needed.

Bone Density Scans

Osteoporosis, a condition of low bone mass, impacts many seniors – especially postmenopausal women. Bone density tests (initially at 65, then every 2 years) detect early signs, reducing fracture risk through treatment and lifestyle changes.

Dental Exams

Oral health offers a window into overall well-being. Biannual dental visits allow for monitoring issues like gum disease, dry mouth from medications, and oral cancers – problems often spotted first by dentists.

Our care team at St. Francis Villa partners with residents and families to ensure access and adherence to these preventive screening fundamentals based on individual needs and risk profiles. Early detection empowers informed care planning.

Early Cancer Screenings

While preventive basics lay the groundwork, strategic cancer screening is another pillar of smart senior healthcare. From breast and colorectal cancer to prostate and lung cancer, these tests can detect disease early when treatment is often most effective:

Breast Cancer

Mammograms are an important screening tool, especially for women over 50 with risk factors like family history of breast cancer, genetic mutations, or dense breast tissue. 

Recommendations from physicians help personalize mammogram screening timelines and frequency based on each individual’s risk profile. At St. Francis Villa, we ensure residents understand their options and have access to mammogram facilities. Our staff provides appointment reminders and transportation assistance as needed.

Colorectal Cancer

Beginning at age 45 for those at average risk or earlier for those with inflammatory bowel disease, family history, or other high-risk factors, screening options like colonoscopies and stool-based tests enable early detection of polyps or colorectal cancer. 

Detected and removed early, many cases are prevented from progressing to cancer. Our wellness team educates residents on screening recommendations and helps coordinate colonoscopy preparation and scheduling.

Prostate Cancer

For men, decisions around prostate cancer screening with the PSA blood test involve weighing potential benefits against risks like overtreatment. 3

Discussions consider individual factors like age, other health conditions, family history, and preferences around treatment. St. Francis Villa staff facilitate these conversations to ensure residents make informed choices aligned with their values.

Lung Cancer

Those between ages 55-80 with a smoking history of 30 pack-years or more may benefit from annual low-dose CT lung cancer screening. These scans can detect abnormalities and even early stage lung cancers that allow for monitoring or curative treatment options. Our caregivers support residents in understanding if they qualify and locating accredited lung cancer screening facilities.

Learn how St. Francis Villa works to help our residents – and their community – live thriving, vibrant lives of purpose and passion in their later years.

Imagine your elderly mother, once vibrant and active, now spending most of her days alone in her room, disengaged from the world around her. Or your father, who used to love socializing, now struggling with feelings of isolation and despair after losing his spouse.

These stories – shocking to hear and worse to experience – are all too common among senior adults. Older adults, particularly those who are limited in their mobility or living in a care facility, are at a higher risk for loneliness and depression.

At St. Francis Villa, we understand the profound impact that loneliness and depression can have on the well-being of seniors. Our assisted living community is dedicated to providing a holistic approach to care that prioritizes both sides of the person – physical health and emotional and social wellness. 

We believe that by fostering a supportive, engaging environment and implementing targeted strategies, we can help alleviate the burden of loneliness and depression, allowing our residents to thrive in their golden years.

The Rise of Senior Loneliness and Depression

The statistics don’t lie – research has consistently shown that loneliness and depression are significant health concerns for older adults. 

Feelings of loneliness can increase the risk of cognitive decline, heart disease, and even mortality. Research done by UCSF found that lonely seniors had a 59% higher risk of functional decline compared to their socially connected peers.

Shockingly, many of those who reported feelings of depression or loneliness didn’t actually live alone. They simply felt the feelings associated with loneliness, which can be just as damaging. Left untreated, these feelings can lead to a decline in physical and mental health, as well as a decrease in overall quality of life.

With the senior population expected to double by 2050, it is more important than ever to address the issue of senior loneliness and depression. But what exactly is causing this rise in loneliness among our older adults?

Factors Contributing to Loneliness and Depression in Seniors

While there are many factors to consider in the rise of depression rates in older adults, one in particular sticks out – the loss of a spouse or life partner. 

The grief and adjustment to living alone can be overwhelming, leading to feelings of isolation and despair. Studies show that widowhood increases the likelihood of loneliness by up to 40%.

Reduced mobility is another factor that can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and depression. As seniors experience age-related physical limitations or chronic health conditions, they may find it more challenging to leave their homes and engage in social activities. This can lead to a vicious cycle of isolation and further decline in physical and mental health.

Living alone is also a significant risk factor for loneliness and depression in older adults. According to PBR, 27% of women between 65 and 74 lived alone in 2023. While living alone does not necessarily equate to loneliness, it can increase the risk, particularly if seniors lack a strong support network or opportunities for social interaction.

The Impact of Age-Related Changes

Age-related changes such as hearing loss or vision impairment can make it more challenging for seniors to engage with others, further exacerbating feelings of loneliness. These age-related issues can range in severity, including: 

• Difficulty hearing conversations in noisy environments
• Challenges with reading small print or using technology
• Decreased mobility and difficulty getting out of the house
• Changes in physical appearance that may lead to self-consciousness or feelings of inadequacy
• Cognitive decline, leading to memory loss and difficulty with communication and social interaction.

As we age, our social circles often shrink due to changes such as retirement, relocation, and loss of loved ones. This can leave seniors feeling isolated and disconnected from their communities – particularly if they are unable to participate in activities they once enjoyed due to physical limitations. Compound that reality with many seniors facing financial difficulties or health issues that prevent them from engaging in social events and outings.

Your Health Won’t Wait – 

It’s the all-too-present reality that many of us wish to ignore: aging.

While getting older is a privilege, the aging process can bring with it physical and mental changes that require diligence and proactive measures to address. Your health won’t wait for you to be ready – it’s essential to take steps now to promote health and wellness as you enter the golden years.

Fortunately, maintaining a healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to be complicated. For many, implementing a few key habits and practices can go a long way toward staying physically and mentally fit for years to come. 

St. Francis Villa is committed to helping our Metairie, Kenner, and New Orleans communities stay healthy at every stage of life. Here are five tips for promoting health and wellness as you age:

1. Maintain a Healthy Diet

It can be tough to adjust to changes in your appetite or sense of taste as you get older, but a nutritious diet remains essential for health and wellness. Focus on whole foods like fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Be sure to stay hydrated and get enough protein to maintain muscle mass.

Stats show that a healthy diet can reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes, which become more common as you age. And as you replace your processed snacks with nutritious foods, you’ll likely feel better and have more energy too!

Not sure how to begin? Here are some quick tips that you can implement today:

• Add one extra serving of veggies or fruit to each meal
• Choose whole-grain options like brown rice and oats instead of white bread and pasta
• Include healthy fats like olive oil, nuts, and avocados in your diet
• Drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated
• Eat protein with each meal, such as fish, beans, eggs, or lean meats

2. Get A Bit Of Exercise Everyday

Are you getting up and out enough? Many older adults become more sedentary, which can lead to a loss of strength and balance and a higher risk of falls.

Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily, such as walking, swimming, or light strength training. Exercise provides both physical and mental benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, increased strength, and better mood. 

Find activities you enjoy and stick to a regular routine. Even light activity is better than none, so do what you can, and don’t get discouraged! Even the benefits of time in the fresh air and sunshine can boost your health and mood.

The worst fear has just happened. Mom had a fall and no one knew until a friend found her. She is now in the hospital with a fracture. Where do you go from here?

Understanding Supportive Aging

This is a frequent scenario often encountered at assisted living communities. There is a lot to know about senior living and supportive aging; like what resources are available to address mom’s individual needs after retirement and knowing what needs are to be prioritized and addressed and also having the appropriate personnel to assist in addressing those needs. Knowing what questions to ask is just the beginning, but being asked pertinent questions when trying to navigate something like this will help ensure that you will make an informed and appropriate decision.

Seeking Professional Assistance

There are a lot of moving parts to manage and to cope with. This is the time when an experienced professional in assisted living will be very valuable to you in navigating through this process. Finding one should be at the top on your list early in the process; ideally, look for a Registered Nurse seasoned in geriatrics and caring for seniors in the setting appropriate for mom.

What to Expect After a Hospital Stay

But first, let’s recognize what to possibly look ahead to after the hospital stay: doctor follow-ups, routine therapy for a number of weeks, medication additions, changes or adjustments and their timeliness, the degree of difficulty with rehabbing, depression, motivation issues, isolation, difficulties with bathing, dressing and perhaps going to the toilet, and general safety issues are a few to start with. This is certainly enough in and of itself to keep track of, not to mention, having our own issues and families to care for. It can be a stressful time for everyone and overwhelming for both mom – and her family. Tasks mom was once able to do may not be the present case. She may not be able to do several things she once could, depending on the severity of her fall.

Got fears regarding assisted living? Learn how to make necessary decisions without facing any guilt.

Caring for Mom in a Supportive Environment

Considering all of this, it’s best to keep them in a routine, keep them eating healthy, nutritious meals and their minds engaged. This is often a challenge for family members who work and have their own families to care for. We realize that most people would want to stay home and wing it but rehabbing is generally easier with the support that is readily available, especially when one is able to see other seniors manage. At this juncture it is not so much about the real estate; it should be about trying to manage as independently as possible, with dignity, and in a supportive environment as we age. So, does Mom go back home? Does she go to live with one of her kids? Is there someone equipped to take care of her? Or is there an alternative available that will offer her the opportunity to thrive better?

Experience the Quality Care at St. Francis Villa Assisted Living

Since 1999 the owners and staff at St. Francis Villa have navigated the care of seniors by offering them the best quality of life possible by addressing their individual needs with the goal of encouraging independence, offering choices, and preserving their dignity. We have set up bespoke assisted living New Orleans, assisted living Metairie, and assisted living Kenner facilities. Our seasoned staff guides families and their loved ones through the process of creating and executing a custom care plan that is best for them. Plan ahead, call today!

Is simply downsizing the only move to consider? Is it the right solution for you? Weigh your options. Consider what your underlying reasons are to make such a difficult move as this because it is better to make that move only once. 

If you are really honest with yourself, aging maybe starting to affect one’s quality of life. Aging will eventually affect all of us and to keep up with “things” eventually gets more difficult. So does swapping size sufficiently and efficiently address that “elephant in the room” – the aging process? 

Let’s address two appropriate options and which option may be the better one considering your specific reasons for wanting to downsize. Downsizing can be a great consideration as the first option when your children have moved out and your health is relatively good;  or you want to travel more; or you are not entertaining as much;  or you are just tired of the expense and upkeep. One would simply be moving to a smaller place with less to deal with.   

Downsizing would appear to be the answer but it may not be the best option, especially when health related aging in place issues are being ignored or masked. So let’s take a closer look and address downsizing when the real issues are health related issues.

Navigating A Challenging Season

When an aging parent needs extra help, it can be a difficult and emotional time for everyone involved. But it’s important to remember that this is a season in your parents’ lives.

While it may be difficult to talk about, it’s important to have a frank discussion with your parents about their future plans. This will help you understand their thinking and give you an opportunity to share your thoughts and concerns.

And while it may be challenging, there are ways to make the process easier for both you and your parents. Whether you are looking at assisted living or are considering your parent aging in their home there are steps you can take to ensure the process is smooth or at least safe in their home. 

Let’s talk first about safety considerations. I received a call one day from an elderly lady living alone in an apartment near us and she was exploring the option of assisted living. During our discussion she made it clear to me that she was not ready yet and that she had only fallen three times! Contrast this with another call I received from a daughter looking for an assisted living for her father and that he was recuperating in the hospital after he had fallen in his home and remained on the floor for three days! I lost contact with the elderly lady, I don’t know what had happened to her but the elderly gentleman moved in and lived happily with us for years and the daughter achieved “peace of mind”.

While we are on the safety issue, here is a list of safety concerns and issues that I have encountered over the years: falls, eating poorly or having spoiled food, leaving the stove on and burning the food and pot, leaving the water running, overloading electrical wall outlets with multiple adapters, tripping or slipping hazards such as spilled water, shoes, rugs, and phone cords. What about scam phone calls or strangers stopping by? One elderly lady that I knew was scammed of $30,000  in a parking lot trying to help a “friend” that was told of. The list goes on. Scary? You bet. I can also tell you first hand stories from families about their parent lying or hiding from them the real challenges they were having. Eventually it becomes evident, downsizing to a smaller home in these cases will not adequately address health relate aging issues. Let’s begin … 

Having the Conversation about Downsizing

1. Communicate Clearly and Early

It’s also important to communicate early on in the process. This will help avoid any misunderstandings or hurt feelings down the road and may open up a realistic dialogue.

Ask questions that offer insight into their thinking. For example, you might ask:

• What worries you most about the future?
• What would make you feel most comfortable as you get older?
• What are your thoughts on moving to a smaller home or an assisted living?
• How can I help you in this process?

Remember to listen to your parents’ answers without judgment. They may have different ideas about what they want than you do. But as long as you’re able to communicate openly and respect each other’s wishes, you’ll be able to work together to find a solution that works for everyone.

2. Get Organized and Be Efficient

Once you’ve decided to help your parents downsize, it’s important to be organized and efficient in your approach. This will make the process less overwhelming for everyone involved.

Start by making a list of everything that needs to be done. This may include packing up their belongings, sorting through paperwork, or arranging for movers. Then, create a timeline for each task.

If you can, delegate some of the work to other family members or friends. This will help lighten your load and make the process go more smoothly. Don’t be afraid to bring in a network of supportive people to help!

3. Respect Your Parents’ Wishes

Throughout the downsizing process, it’s essential to respect your parents’ wishes. They may have strong feelings about what they want to keep and what they’re willing to let go of.

If your parents struggle to make decisions, gently encourage them to focus on their favorite belongings. What items bring them joy? What has sentimental value?

Help them narrow down their choices by asking questions like:

• Do you use this item regularly?
• Do you have room for it in your new home?
• Is there someone else in the family who would appreciate having this item?

Ultimately, the decision of what to keep and what to let go of should be up to your parents. They know their own belongings best, and they’re the ones who will have to live with the consequences of their decisions. If they are looking to move to a New Orleans assisted living residence, you can help them transition smoothly by staying honest and transparent.

4. Be Patient and Compassionate

The downsizing process can be stressful and emotional for everyone involved. So it’s important to be patient and compassionate with your parents – and with yourself.

Try to take breaks when you start to feel overwhelmed. And don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you need it. There are many resources available to families going through this process, so don’t be afraid to ask for assistance. Remember, this is a season in your parents’ lives and with a little bit of patience and understanding, you’ll all get through it together.

5. Communicate If Moving To A New Location

If you’re considering downsizing to a smaller home or an assisted living facility, it’s essential to communicate your plans with your parents. This will help them understand your thinking and allow them to share their thoughts and concerns.

Remember to listen to your parents’ input during this process. They may have different ideas about where they want to live or what type of care they need. But as long as you’re able to communicate openly and respect each other’s wishes, you’ll be able to find a solution that works for everyone.

Should My Parent Move or Age In Place?

When it comes to downsizing, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. It ultimately depends on your parent’s individual needs and preferences and of course appropriate health care for their aging in place issues; which is the most important consideration for their health, safety and well-being.

With that being said, some parents may prefer to stay in their current home as they get older regardless of safety or health concerns. Some prefer to move to a smaller home when things get challenging, and they will minimize or ignore their health issues. Some may utilize in-home services as they try to maintain piecemeal services which are usually a temporary option if minimal care and minimal supervision are warranted. 

 Some will wonder if the downsizing process will actually solve the problem it’s meant to address. Will their parents be happier and more comfortable in a smaller home? Or will they simply be trading one set of problems for another?

Assisted living can give them the support they need as they age and they can enjoy a better quality of life all around with friends, socialization, nutritious food and at St. Francis Villa, monitoring and appropriate care.  Downsizing can be a big change, so it’s important to give them the time and space and help them to ensure they make the appropriate decision for themselves considering their circumstances.

At St. Francis Villa Assisted Living, we know how difficult it can be to downsize. We can provide you and your parents with the appropriate support needed as they age in place. It is not about the real estate, it is about the relationships and experiences to enjoy.

We are excited to offer our services for residents across the New Orleans area, River Ridge, Harahan, Metairie and Kenner. We look forward to helping you and your family through this transition! So get the help you need and deserve at  St. Francis Villa Assisted Living in River Ridge, LA. For more information about our services, contact us today.