Common Fears about Assisted Living

Older adults often fear moving from their home to an assisted living facility. Many seniors find it intimidating as they would need to move to an unknown location, leaving the home that they have been living for many years. Without understanding their fears, you may find it difficult to convince them that moving to an assisted living facility would be best for them. Therefore, first understand their fears, then sit them down and give them answers to help abate those fears. 

Below are some common fears of moving to an assisted living that you should be prepared for:

• Fear of being neglected: The biggest fear among many older adults is that their family members and other loved ones will forget them once they have moved to an assisted living facility. It is important for family members to assure them that they will plan regular visits and be there for them whenever necessary. Setting them up to be able to communicate electronically may help even more.
• Fear of losing independence: Seniors want to maintain their independence for as long as possible. They think that moving to an assisted living facility leads to loss of independence and they will be unable to continue their daily living activities. But, today’s assisted living facilities allow their residents complete flexibility. Plus, there are so many activities that are planned for seniors in an assisted living facility that will give them an opportunity do try new things and do what they enjoy.
• Fear of cost: They think that assisted living will cost too much and yes, some assisted livings are costly. Search for the one which is affordable and provides all the necessary services.
• Fear of being alone: Seniors believe that they will feel alone in assisted living as everyone will be new to them. They don’t think they will be able to get to know others well and that there will be no one they can share their deepest thoughts with. But, the truth is they will be able to make new friends just by stepping out the door of their apartment or room, eat in the cafeteria or join activities or classes at the facility.

Assisted living is often the best choice for seniors who need some extra care and want to be socially active. Choose Always Best Care, a noted senior care firm, for the best Assisted living services in Contra Costa County. For more information, call them today at (925) 210-0323.

Sleep Problems in the Elderly

Often people think of sleep problems as simply a part of aging, but it is not. The body does require less sleep as we age, but not as much as you might think. Several sleeping problems in the elderly are caused due to poor sleep habits, health issues, and stress, none of which are a part of normal aging.

Various sleep problems in seniors include:

• Insomnia
• Sleep apnea
• Hypersomnia
• Fatigue
• Day time sleepiness
• Involuntary movement of limbs during sleep
• …and many others. 

                                   Common Causes of Sleep Problems in the Elderly

• Medical conditions: Seniors often suffer from various health conditions and take many medications prescribed by their doctor. Side effects of these medications can lead to loss of sleep at night or disturbed sleep patterns. Some of the medical conditions that disturb sleep patterns of seniors include:

         Heart and lung conditions affecting breathing 

         Painful conditions, including osteoarthritis 

         Depression or anxiety

         Frequent urination

         Neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s

         …and many others.

•  Restless leg syndrome (RLS): This is a condition which causes sensations of itching, crawling, irritation or restlessness when a person is trying to fall asleep. The symptoms are disagreeable, but not usually excessively painful.

• Lack of exercise: Exercise help improves quality of sleep and also reduces risk of depression. Apart from this, it has several other benefits such as reduces diabetes, maintain blood pressure and many more.

• Improper sleep schedules: Poor sleep schedules are often the biggest cause of sleep problems in seniors. If they maintain a proper sleep schedule and avoid sleeping during the day, their sleep problems minimize.  

• Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of developing sleep apnea. Seniors who smoke often wake frequently during the night and have a higher tendency in developing insomnia.

Everyone should avoid that which interferes with their sleep, but seniors should be more aware. Maintaining a proper schedule will help you have a good night’s sleep. If you need help regarding senior care for you or a loved one, contact Always Best Care. They’re a senior care firm providing Elder care services in East Bay, CA. For more information, call (925) 210-0323.