Activities Archives | Broadway Mesa Village

Why Seniors Love Mesa for Retirement Living

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 18:52:38 +0000

Locals in Mesa, AZ often notice increased traffic during the winter months. The December to March temperatures hover around 70 degrees. That’s good news for older adults who want to beat seasonal depression in colder zones.

Don’t just be a Mesa retirement snowbird. Consider finding a senior living or retirement community in this Phoenix suburb and live the life you deserve!

Broadway Mesa Village is a senior living community that can’t wait to introduce you to a perfect retirement in Mesa, AZ. Join us for a tour of our city’s:

Location
Entertainment options
Nature escapes
Tax information
Senior care costs
Assisted living and memory care information

Choose Mesa retirement and join our senior living community’s lunch bunch!

Where is Mesa, Arizona?

You can find Mesa outside Phoenix in the East Valley and before the Superstition Mountains. Close to both the big city and scenic getaways, our town features:

Friendly folks
Recreational activities
An economy where your retirement dollar can go a long way

Is Mesa a good place to retire?

The population of 500,000 doubles when temperatures in other parts of the country drop. However, Mesa is more than just a destination because of its weather. Consider these activities:

Mesa Arts Center (free)
Cubs baseball at Sloan Park ($9 seats)
Mesa Historical Museum ($5 for seniors)
Mesa marketplace swap meet ($3 breakfast)

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can plan the following activities:

Desert Belle Cruises
Hiking and RV camping
Boyce Thompson Arboretum
Golf
Casinos

Why does my retirement dollar go further in Mesa?

Residents of Arizona often spend less of their money on taxes than they would in other states, which offers them more opportunities to pay for products and services of their choice.

Non-taxable items in Arizona	Other Arizona tax information
Social security Estate tax Inheritance tax Groceries Prescriptions	Property tax is about $1,000 lower than the national average The basic income tax rate also comes in at a low and reasonable 2.59 percent Sales tax varies by locality Some seniors aged 70+ can have property taxes deferred

Where should I live in Mesa?

If you buy a home in Mesa, expect that to be an investment. According to Zillow, from 2020 to 2021, many homes in the Phoenix area appreciated by $100,000. Fresh into retirement, a home may be what you want, but leaving the burdens of homeownership behind is ideal as you age.

Broadway Mesa Village is where you can live independently while having plenty of time to relax and enjoy your retirement. Residents live an engaging lifestyle with plenty of opportunities for socialization. We are also very close to one of the top hospitals in the state, Banner Baywood Medical Center.

What’s Broadway Mesa Village?

Assisted living and memory care in the desirable northeast section of Mesa:

Assisted Living	Studio, one, and two-bedroom apartments Nursing and care associates Medication management On-site physical, occupational, and speech therapy
Memory Care	Connections, a research-based memory care program designed for people with Alzheimer’s and dementia Behavior tracking and management Thoughtfully designed studio floor plans and secure common rooms
Amenities	Full-service dining room with three delicious meals plus snacks per day Outdoor enclosed courtyard and walking paths Recreation room Beauty/barbershop Library Fitness classes
Services	Housekeeping Personal laundry Activities and special events Scheduled transportation Pet care

What is the cost of assisted living in Mesa?

The folks who only come down for a few months a year generally pay between $2500-$3500 for a condo, according to Vacasa.com. If you live in Mesa full-time, your money can go considerably further.

Another Arizona bonus is the cost of assisted living. At a better value than the national average, our senior care services tend to be more economical when compared to several-month rentals. Read more about the pricing structure of independent living, assisted living, and memory care.

At Broadway Mesa Village, your monthly rent includes:

Three chef-inspired seasonal meals and snacks per day made year-round with local ingredients
Housekeeping, linen, and maintenance services
Scheduled transportation to appointments, shopping, and outings
Activities from jewelry making to live music and happy hours
Care services and enrichment from a dedicated team who feel fulfilled providing for residents

Where can I learn more about retirement living in Mesa?

Contact us for in-person or virtual tours of Broadway Mesa Village. Our local senior living specialist can answer your questions about joining our community and point you in the direction of unique local flavors and fun. Join us on Facebook for more fun!

The post Why Seniors Love Mesa for Retirement Living appeared first on Broadway Mesa Village.

Broadway Mesa Village Celebrates a Remarkable 105th Senior Birthday

Pegasus Senior — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 16:55:53 +0000

Broadway Mesa Village recently marked the extraordinary journey of beloved resident Vivian B., who recently celebrated her 105th senior birthday at Broadway Mesa Village. We were privileged to share in this remarkable milestone for a life, well-lived. The three-day event was much more than just a short gathering – our team members created a testament to the vibrant spirit and enduring strength that defines our senior community. Reaching the age of 105 is an inspiration, and her celebration was fun, exciting, surprising…and pretty loud, actually!

Vivian showing one of her 1700 birthday cards!

Day One: Dancing Like There’s No Tomorrow

On August 31, 2023, family, friends, residents, and team members gathered at Broadway Mesa Village to wish Vivian a happy birthday. The guests danced to live music, enjoyed special treats, and the guest of honor opened some of the 1,700+ birthday cards she had received.

Day Two: A Community Parade

Vivian’s senior birthday continued outdoors the next day with a parade and greetings from the City of Mesa Firefighters and local government officials. Sitting on a comfortable couch and wearing a rhinestone crown, she watched the parade and received her visitors with a smile. Vivian was presented with gift baskets, flowers, and one-on-one time with the local fire chief and police department representatives. She was thrilled to be the focus of attention that day and received plenty of compliments and hugs.

Day Three: A Motorcycle Ride

On September 2, Vivian was seen on her feet, waving to members of the Christian Motorcycle Association as they drove by Broadway Mesa Village’s entrance with their lights flashing. After the men and women participating in this procession parked, they greeted Vivian with hugs and a card.The group also prayed together and when that ended, the guest of honor asked for a motorcycle ride; she was given a helmet and helped onto the seat. Vivian was all smiles as her driver revved the engine and took her for a spin – she even mentioned her “helmet hair” afterward!

Christian Motorcycle Association wishes Vivian a Happy 105th

The Key to Vivian’s Longevity

Vivian’s journey began in 1918, and she has witnessed a century of countless changes and evolution. Friends and family gathered to honor this incredible woman, creating an unforgettable three-day senior birthday party. One cannot help but wonder what the secret to her longevity might be, though. The timeless values of love and laughter cannot be emphasized strongly enough here, and they help guide seniors through life’s ups and downs.

The Importance of Senior Communities

Senior communities provide supportive, enriching environments where residents can continue to grow and enjoy life to the fullest. Their loved ones also have peace of mind, knowing that their family members are cared for in secure environments where their medical and personal needs are cared for. Seniors enjoy longevity at Broadway Mesa Village Assisted Living & Memory Care in Mesa, AZ with these enrichment services:

Recreation and activity center
Fitness center and wellness program
Daily, planned social activities
On-site salon
Pet-friendly apartments

Broadway Mesa Village Celebrates All Lives With Kindness and Integrity

Vivian B.’s 105th senior birthday celebration is a reminder of the beauty and resilience of aging. As we honor her and all of our residents, we invite you to consider the significance of embracing the later years with vitality and purpose. Everyone has a unique story to tell and deserves a space where they can continue to create memories and share their wisdom. If you’re interested in exploring the enriching senior living experience we offer at Broadway Mesa Village, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We’d love to show you how our community can honor and celebrate you or your loved ones, every single day.

The post Broadway Mesa Village Celebrates a Remarkable 105th Senior Birthday appeared first on Broadway Mesa Village.

An Extraordinary Location: Assisted Living in the Mesa, AZ Area

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 13:53:15 +0000

Nestled in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, Mesa, Arizona, is a hidden gem for seniors seeking a vibrant and secure place to call home. This enchanting city, with its warm climate and welcoming community, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and amenities. There’s a wealth of indoor and recreational opportunities, including numerous parks and cultural attractions – two of the best-known are Riverview Park and Mesa Arts Center. This vibrant city is also close to Phoenix and Tempe, AZ, so there is also an international airport, respected medical centers, and plenty of shopping nearby.

Senior living in Mesa is all about embracing a fulfilling, vibrant lifestyle. The city’s commitment to seniors’ well-being, combined with its natural beauty and cultural richness, makes it an exceptional place to call home. It’s the ideal location for Broadway Mesa Village, an established assisted living community in the Mesa, AZ area.

Senior Care Centers in Mesa, AZ Can Be Fun and Engaging

There are countless senior care centers throughout the Southwest. Mesa, AZ is popular because it’s in a highly sought-after location with an appealing downtown area not far from two of the state’s major cities. At Broadway Mesa Village, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere that prioritizes your loved one’s well-being. There are picturesque landscapes and a tranquil environment, but we prioritize something just as important: Our team is passionate about creating engaging lifestyle programs and special events that the residents absolutely love. Here’s how we care for their daily and long-term needs, starting with the basics, before letting you know all about the fun stuff.

Our Assisted Living and Memory Care Program

Moving to assisted living in Mesa, AZ can be a big change so it’s best to see what this area’s communities have to offer. Senior care services mean that residents can live with freedom and confidence, thanks to expert help from licensed nurses and specialized care services. Broadway Mesa Village offers seniors two types of care and multiple levels of assistance in each.

Assisted Living
Our assisted living residents benefit from exceptional features that enhance their health and well-being: We have an on-site licensed nurse and physical, occupational, and speech therapy services. Broadway Mesa Village’s caring team members meet with all residents daily for personal check-ins and also provide behavior tracking and management. Our personal care services include:

Bathing and dressing services
Escort and ambulation
Incontinence care
Assistance with dining needs
Pet care

When comparing these services, keep in mind that assisted living communities are different from nursing homes. Our seniors are active and focused on living vibrant lives, without having to struggle with the activities of daily living.

Memory Care
At Broadway Mesa Village, our dementia care community is guided by Dr. Sandra Petersen and the Connections program. Guided by the “Connect, Move, and Learn” framework, this program for seniors living with memory loss due to Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other forms of dementia focuses on evidence-based therapy to preserve memory and promote healthy living.

Services include:

Connections memory care program
Activities of daily living assistance
Medication management
Brain-healthy meals
Dementia-friendly exercise
Sensory enhancing activities
Encouraging social interaction
Clean, private rooms
Secure environment

Our signature Connections program benefits the residents and their family members by offering targeted programming that meets the unique needs of seniors living with cognitive decline.

Lifestyle Programs and Special Events Geared for Seniors

Celebrating National Assisted Living Week

Assisted living communities can enhance their residents’ social lives and cognition through enrichment programs, day trips, and events. We have monthly assisted living and memory care calendars, with events taking place in the mornings, afternoons, and early evenings. They focus on physical movement, learning engagement, and social interactions that celebrate our residents.

Broadway Mesa Village’s assisted living calendar offers Bingo and other games, exercise classes, shopping trips, movies, and parties. Turning to the memory care calendar, you can find mind enrichment programs like Brainercise, SingFit, and Mind Stretchers – there are also movies and spa days.

The best way to see how much the residents enjoy the programming is to visit Broadway Mesa Village’s Facebook page. Several posts show how a community member was recently honored for her 105th birthday with a parade featuring a procession of local firefighters and the Christian Motorcycle Association. Other shared videos and photos feature a barbershop quartet performance, a fun “Flip Flops and Lemon Drops” event, and holiday celebrations.

Our Art Therapy Explores Creative Expression

Broadway Mesa Village’s innovative art program is available to assisted living and memory care residents. They develop new skills and awaken old ones – these form new cognitive connections and ease agitation, anxiety, and depression symptoms. The projects also incorporate aromatherapy, which has a calming effect.

What else can seniors do for fun in Mesa, Arizona?

Downtown Mesa comes alive nearly every weekend with farmer’s markets, festivals, and live entertainment. Seniors are welcome to check out free concerts, traveling exhibitions, and live theater. They can also get in their walking steps and swings at places like:

Red Mountain Park
Jefferson Park
Arizona Golf Resort & Event Center

And while other parts of the country experience cold and snow, Mesa seniors get to enjoy these pastimes outdoors during the winter months. When things heat up in summer, older adults can find plenty of air-conditioned activities. The residents enjoy taking community transportation to indoor attractions like:

The Lost Dutchman Museum at Superstition Mountain
Desert Botanical Garden
Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum

Don’t worry if you feel overwhelmed by all of these choices, though. The residents have the freedom to explore the programs and participate in the ones that are to their liking. When they prefer to have some downtime, they can always retreat to their apartments and shared spaces to enjoy a bit of relaxation.

Explore Mesa, AZ and Broadway Mesa Village’s Unique Assisted Living Program

At Broadway Mesa Village assisted living in the Mesa, AZ area, we celebrate and enhance all lives with kindness and integrity. We invite you to tour our property and meet our Resident Ambassador. We can’t wait to show you or your family around our beautiful senior care center in Mesa, Arizona. Contact us to arrange a tour.

The post An Extraordinary Location: Assisted Living in the Mesa, AZ Area appeared first on Broadway Mesa Village.

Connections: Person-Centered Care for Dementia

Pegasus Senior — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 14:49:13 +0000

Have you been seeking the right care for your loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia? It can be a challenging and emotional journey, but you’re not alone.

At Pegasus Senior Living communities, we understand this journey’s impact on the individual and their family. That’s why we’ve dedicated ourselves to providing person-centered care services prioritizing each resident’s unique needs, preferences, and stories.

Our focus on person-centered senior care is designed to support, nurture and enrich the lives of residents, making the transition to assisted living as smooth and fulfilling as possible.

Halfpoint – stock.adobe.com

What is Person-Centered Senior Care?

Person-centered senior care is an approach to elder care that places the individual at the heart of their support services. This philosophy recognizes that each senior has unique needs, preferences, and histories.

The focus shifts from simply providing basic healthcare to understanding the whole person and their life story. It’s about acknowledging that seniors are individuals with rich experiences, personal interests, and varying abilities rather than just patients with medical needs.

The core belief of this approach is that seniors have the right to:

Dignity
Respect
The ability to make choices about their care

Care plans are personalized and developed with the senior and their family members. This ensures that the care provided aligns with the residents’ values, preferences, and lifestyle, leading to a higher quality of life and overall well-being.

Person-centered senior care might allow seniors to decide their daily routines, including when they wake up, their activities, and what meals they eat. The goal is to maintain their independence, promote their self-esteem, and enhance their life satisfaction.

At Pegasus communities, person-centered senior care is not just a concept but a practice. Our Connections memory care program especially works at an individualized level to:

Foster a sense of belonging and purpose
Instill fulfillment among our residents
Increase self-esteem

Connections: A Group Approach to Memory Care for Dementia

“We also connect through getting a social history for the person so we understand who someone is now,” explains Connections founder Dr. Sandra Petersen. “The more we learn, the more we find connection points with that specific person. It’s very person-centered in its approach.”

Understanding residents’ unique stories is at the heart of our Connections memory care program. We believe in the importance of knowing each resident as an individual:

What was their occupation
What is their favorite music
What are their favorite hobbies
Did they have cherished pets

This philosophy guides us in creating an individualized experience that respects and supports each resident’s journey. Our approach goes beyond providing primary care. We connect with residents and family members on a deeper level.

The Connections memory care program is here to foster a sense of belonging and understanding that can make a difference.

Do person-centered care services prevent loneliness?

Nearly 14 million seniors live alone. Many lead fulfilling, independent lives, but at least a third of older adults feel socially isolated.

Unhealthy habits can develop when seniors are not socially connected:

Poor diet
Lack of exercise
Limited intellectual stimulation
Increased risk of heart disease and stroke
Increased risk of dementia
A faster decline in health

We recognize transitioning to assisted living or memory care can sometimes bring about feelings of loneliness and isolation for seniors. A lonely senior may need time to acclimate to a community of bonded people.

We’re committed to mitigating these feelings by cultivating a vibrant community and encouraging social engagement. Our dedicated Life Enrichment Team organizes a variety of activities and events catering to diverse interests.

The first one or two weeks is critical for getting new residents to break unhealthy habits and get involved in community activities such as:

Book club
Fitness classes
Art workshops
Movie nights
Pet therapy

A Group Approach to Memory Care for Dementia

“We have to find some commonality when we have groups,” says Dr. Petersen. “We believe in that group therapy because it allows them to learn how to reconnect socially.”

A person with dementia can often feel isolated and unheard. Implementing groups of residents experiencing similar symptoms of dementia can validate feelings and stimulate relationships.

The group approach to person-centered care improves self-esteem and opens the door to experiencing our Connect, Move, Learn sequence in long-term care.

Residents can build relationships and regain a sense of belonging through shared experiences and meaningful engagement. This collaborative approach initiates a cycle of continued growth and overall well-being.

Discover Person-Centered Care for People with Dementia

Navigating the journey of Alzheimer’s or dementia can be challenging. With the proper support and care, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Pegasus communities, we’re committed to providing care for older adults that value, support, and uplift each resident.

We have created inclusive communities that foster a sense of belonging and well-being.

Team members genuinely understand every individual’s story matters, and every connection counts.

Find a person-centered senior living community near you today!

The post Connections: Person-Centered Care for Dementia appeared first on Broadway Mesa Village.

Creating Dementia-Friendly Communities in Senior Living

Pegasus Senior — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 17:33:08 +0000

As the baby boomer generation gets older, the prevalence of dementia continues to rise, creating a greater need for dementia-friendly communities for seniors. The physical environment of a dementia-friendly community plays an essential role in supporting residents. Sensory-friendly design elements, such as clear signage, contrasting colors, and appropriate lighting, are implemented to aid navigation and minimize confusion. Thoughtful floor plans with familiar cues and secure outdoor spaces promote mobility and independence while ensuring resident security.

In this blog, we will explore the significance of dementia-friendly communities and how unique training methods, such as Dementia Live®, empower staff to better care for residents.

CDavids/peopleimages.com – stock.adobe.com

Empowering Staff through Innovative Training

Dementia-friendly senior living communities have programs designed for individuals with dementia. They focus on creating an environment that promotes security, comfort, and engagement while minimizing confusion and anxiety. The core principles of dementia-friendly communities revolve around person-centered care, sensory-friendly design, and specialized training for staff members. At Pegasus Senior Living, their Connections memory care program is doing just that.

The program was designed by Dr. Sandra Petersen, a dementia expert, who incorporated her in-depth knowledge and experience. Its main components are Connect, Move, and Learn.

Connect

Central to dementia-friendly communities is the concept of person-centered care. This approach recognizes the uniqueness of each individual, focusing on their strengths, preferences, and history. By creating personalized care plans, staff can better meet the needs of residents, help keep them engaged, and promote their overall well-being.

Pegasus Senior living care team members have the unique opportunity to undergo Dementia Live® training. This dementia simulation helps them truly live in a resident’s shoes, creating more empathy and connection.

Move

Engaging the body and the mind is critical for dementia care. The Connections program encourages physical activity to maximize the quality of life. Under careful supervision, residents of Pegasus communities can participate in boxing, walking clubs, stretching, and other fitness programs to help them achieve an active body and mind.

Learn

Residents learn through carefully curated activities and sensory experiences. To ensure the delivery of high-quality care, staff members in dementia-friendly senior living communities undergo specialized training programs. One unique method gaining traction is Dementia Live®, an innovative experiential learning tool developed by AGE-u-cate.

Dementia Live® cultivates empathy and understanding among caregivers by simulating the experience of living with dementia. Through virtual reality technology and sensory modifications, staff members experience the cognitive and physical challenges faced by individuals with dementia. This immersive experience enables them to better connect with residents, adapt communication techniques, and develop creative problem-solving skills. By participating in the training, staff members become more attuned to the needs and emotions of residents, leading to improved person-centered care.

Benefits of Dementia Live® Training

1. Empathy and Understanding: Dementia Live enables staff members to step into the shoes of those living with dementia, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of the daily struggles they face.

2. Enhanced Communication Skills: By experiencing the communication difficulties associated with dementia, staff members learn to adapt their approach, using clear and simple language, nonverbal cues, and active listening techniques.

3. Problem-Solving Abilities: Dementia Live challenges staff members to think creatively and find practical solutions to overcome the barriers individuals with dementia may encounter.

4. Reduced Stigma and Judgment: Experiencing dementia through Dementia Live dispels misconceptions and stereotypes, reducing stigma and promoting a more compassionate attitude toward residents.

In senior living, creating dementia-friendly communities is vital for providing the best possible care and support for individuals with dementia. By embracing person-centered care, sensory-friendly design, and innovative training, staff members in these communities can significantly enhance residents’ lives.

The immersive experience provided by Dementia Live® empowers caregivers to develop empathy, adapt communication strategies, and become more effective problem solvers. Together, these efforts contribute to an inclusive and compassionate environment where seniors with dementia can thrive and enjoy a fulfilling life.

Experience the Pegasus difference today.

If you’re seeking compassionate memory care, provided by a team that truly understands what your loved one needs, we invite you to learn more about Connections, and how we can support your loved one on their unique journey.

The post Creating Dementia-Friendly Communities in Senior Living appeared first on Broadway Mesa Village.

Mastering Dementia Education with Dementia Live® Training

Pegasus Senior — Tue, 04 Jul 2023 17:59:09 +0000

As the elderly population grows, so does the need for trained caregivers to meet their specific needs. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “about 5.8 million people in the United States have Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. By 2060, the number of Alzheimer’s disease cases is predicted to rise to an estimated 14 million people, with minority populations being affected the most.”

Senior living communities are faced with the critical task of providing specialized care and support for residents living with dementia. A comprehensive dementia education program is essential to help meet this challenge. One groundbreaking approach that has shown remarkable success is Dementia Live® training. By incorporating this innovative program into their care strategies, senior living communities can enhance their dementia care education and empower their staff to provide exceptional care to residents.

Innovating Dementia Care

Dementia education encompasses a wide range of knowledge and skills caregivers must have. It involves understanding the various forms of dementia, such as Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia, and Lewy body dementia, as well as understanding how symptoms progress and impact functioning. The best dementia education program includes learning effective communication techniques, behavioral management strategies and creating dementia-friendly environments.

Pegasus Senior Living’s Connections program incorporates innovative training like Dementia Live®, which helps bring more empathy into caregiving.

Siphosethu F/peopleimages.com – stock.adobe.com

Exploring Dementia Live®

Dementia Live® training is an immersive, experiential learning program designed to provide participants with a firsthand experience of living with dementia. Developed by a team of experts in aging, dementia, and virtual reality technology, this training method offers a unique perspective that enhances empathy and understanding.

The training involves participants donning specialized equipment, such as goggles, gloves, and headphones, which simulate the sensory and cognitive challenges experienced by individuals with dementia. By temporarily altering their perception of reality, participants gain invaluable insights into the confusion, disorientation, and frustration that individuals with dementia often face.

Let’s explore the benefits of incorporating Dementia Live® into a senior living community’s memory care program.

Heightened Empathy and Understanding

One of the best outcomes of Dementia Live® training is increasing empathy among caregivers by providing a first-person experience of living with dementia. A heightened understanding enables them to better connect with residents, anticipate their needs, and respond with compassion and patience.

Enhanced Communication Skills

Effective communication is essential when caring for individuals with dementia. Dementia Live® equips staff with communication techniques that reduce misunderstandings and promote meaningful interactions. By experiencing firsthand how dementia affects perception, participants learn to adapt their communication style to meet their residents’ unique needs.

Improved Behavioral Management

Challenging behaviors are common among individuals with dementia. Dementia Live® training enables caregivers to develop strategies for managing and de-escalating these behaviors by gaining insights into the underlying causes. With a deeper understanding of the emotions and triggers contributing to challenging behaviors, staff can implement effective interventions and create a calmer, safer environment.

Person-Centered Care

Practical dementia care training emphasizes the importance of person-centered care, focusing on the individual’s strengths, preferences, and life history. Participants experience the impact of sensory changes and cognitive decline so that they can tailor their approach. Understanding what it’s like for a resident when their abilities have changed promotes a higher quality of life.

Pegasus Senior Living is mastering dementia care training by providing a robust program for care team members. To implement Dementia Live® training effectively, a senior living community can take the following steps:

Collaborate with organizations (like AGE-u-Cate) experienced in providing dementia care training, ensuring a high-quality education.
Extend dementia education beyond direct caregivers to administrators, maintenance staff, and dining personnel. This comprehensive approach ensures a dementia-inclusive environment throughout the community.
Dementia Live® training should be part of a continuing education program. Regular refreshers and workshops reinforce knowledge, introduce new strategies, and keep staff engaged.
Regularly evaluate the impact of the training on staff performance and resident outcomes. Use feedback and data to make necessary adjustments and improvements to the dementia care education program.

By leveraging innovative programs, senior living communities can show their investment in caring for seniors, raise community awareness, and educate families and care partners who support their residents. Providing exceptional dementia care means committing to training and education for staff with programs like Dementia Live®.

Find an educated and empathetic community near you today.

Learn more about the Connections program by visiting a memory care community near you.

The post Mastering Dementia Education with Dementia Live® Training appeared first on Broadway Mesa Village.

How Immersive Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Training Improves the Resident Experience

Pegasus Senior — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia requires a unique set of skills, knowledge, and compassion. As the number of seniors living with dementia continues to rise, it becomes crucial for caregivers in memory care communities to receive specialized training.

In this blog post, we will explore the significance of specialized dementia care training and discuss the impact of Dementia Live® in Pegasus Senior Living communities. The training enables caregivers in the Connections memory care program to empathize with residents and to experience life from their perspective.

The Need for Specialized Training

Dementia is a complex condition that affects a person’s cognitive abilities, memory, and behavior. Providing quality care for seniors with dementia requires caregivers to have a deep understanding of the disease, its progression, and effective communication techniques. Specialized training equips caregivers with the knowledge to navigate the challenges associated with dementia and provide person-centered care.

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How Dementia Live® Helps

Dementia care training that is experiential is very effective. The Dementia Live® experience simulates what it’s like for someone with dementia so that the caregiver can begin to understand what daily life is like for them.

Stepping into a Resident’s Shoes

Dementia Live®, implemented in Pegasus Senior Living communities, is an innovative training that offers a hands-on experience for caregivers, enabling them to better understand the daily challenges of dementia. Experiential training allows caregivers to step into the shoes of someone living with dementia, building empathy and a deeper understanding of their needs.

A Sensory Experience

Dementia Live® utilizes special gear that simulates the sensory impairments experienced by individuals with dementia. Caregivers wear goggles that distort their vision, gloves that limit dexterity, and headphones that play background noises. By temporarily experiencing these challenges firsthand, caregivers have greater empathy for what residents go through.

Behavioral Understanding

During the training, caregivers engage in various tasks and exercises designed to mimic the cognitive and physical limitations of dementia. This experiential learning helps caregivers appreciate the impact of memory loss, confusion, disorientation, and communication difficulties on residents’ well-being.

Communication Techniques

The Dementia Live® program also offers practical strategies for effectively communicating with residents who have dementia. Once they experience how deficits can lead to frustration and agitation, it helps break down communication barriers.

Caregivers learn techniques to enhance connection and reduce stress for residents. This includes using simple and clear language, employing non-verbal cues, active listening, and understanding how to manage difficult behaviors with compassion and patience.

Person-Centered Care

Every individual with dementia has their own history, preferences, and unique set of needs. Specialized training emphasizes person-centered care, which means tailoring care plans to the individual’s abilities, interests, and personal goals. This approach promotes dignity, independence, and quality of life for residents.

The Positive Impact

By investing in Alzheimer’s and dementia care training, caregivers in Pegasus Senior Living memory care communities acquire the necessary skills and empathy to provide the highest level of care for residents.Caregivers who are well-trained can connect better with residents, build better relationships, and help residents in a deeper way.

Dementia Live® is just one component of Connections’ holistic approach to memory care.

Connections offers person-centered care and support. By undergoing innovative training programs like Dementia Live® caregivers are better equipped to help their residents.

Pegasus Senior Living’s goal is to promote empathy, effective communication, and a higher quality of life for those in their care. As the demand for memory care continues to grow, it is essential that caregivers receive the training they need to provide the best possible support for individuals with dementia.

Connect with a Pegasus Senior Living Community Near You.

Learn more about Connections, and the immersive training our team members have to better care for your loved one.

The post How Immersive Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Training Improves the Resident Experience appeared first on Broadway Mesa Village.

A Doctor’s View: What is A Retirement Home?

Pegasus Senior — Fri, 22 Apr 2022 12:15:00 +0000

Hello, I’m Dr. Sandra Petersen. I’m the Senior VP of Health and Wellness at Pegasus Senior Living.

My passion for enriching the lives of seniors led me to design the Connections memory care program. Today, this life-changing program is available in 28 Pegasus communities nationwide.

Our population is aging rapidly. Every single day, 10,000 Americans celebrate their 65th birthday. By 2034, the scales will tip even further when seniors outnumber those under 18 for the first time in history. This significant demographic shift underscores the growing need for quality senior housing and care options.

Understanding how to choose a retirement community is vital to the aging process. Finding the right fit for your lifestyle can seem daunting. Unscrambling the difference between retirement communities, senior living arrangements, and long-term care doesn’t have to be complicated.

This blog will explore what a retirement home is and how it differs from other senior living options. Most importantly, we’ll discuss how to choose the one that suits your needs perfectly.

Choose a retirement community that appeals to your activities and interests!

Types of Retirement Communities

A retirement home is more than just a place to live. It’s a community designed with the unique needs and desires of older adults in mind. The senior living industry has shifted to use the term “communities” instead of “homes.”

At its core, a retirement community is a congregate living facility that offers a maintenance-free lifestyle for its residents. This feature gives them time to focus on what truly matters: enjoying their golden years.

In these communities, each person or couple resides in an apartment-style room or suite of rooms. It’s not much different from a traditional apartment. But unlike typical apartments, these homes are nestled within a vibrant community in your area. They are filled with like-minded individuals who share similar life stages.

What sets these communities apart are the additional amenities available within the building. Shared spaces are hubs of activity and social interaction. These can include:

Dining rooms for communal meals and social events
Common areas for socializing and making new friends
Recreational activities to keep you active and engaged
Healthcare facilities for long-term medical care and acute senior care

One important factor to consider when choosing a retirement community is its financial structure. The cost of living in these communities varies as much as the services they offer. The typical price structure in order of least costly to most includes:

55+ communities
Independent living
Assisted living
Memory care
Continuing care retirement communities
Nursing homes

Some operate on a rental basis, where residents pay a monthly fee, much like a traditional apartment. Assisted living and memory care typically charge for specialized care services. Others function similarly to a condominium, where residents purchase their homes in perpetuity.

Retirement communities feature an array of options as diverse as flavors of ice cream.

Anticipating your future needs and desires is crucial in determining what type of senior housing might be best for you. Whether it’s medical services, social opportunities, or simply a change of scenery, finding the right fit can enhance your quality of life and provide peace of mind for your future.

Choosing a retirement community is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and planning. But remember, it’s not just about finding a place to live—it’s about finding a place where you can truly thrive.

A retirement community is where friends come together!

Independent Living

These communities can range from homes to cottages but are most commonly senior apartments offering a concierge approach to retirement living.

Independent living is best suited for active seniors. These communities are similar to traditional apartment complexes or housing developments with strong homeowners’ associations.

An oasis for seniors, these communities generally offer dining, activities, and some form of a la carte personal assistance services. Housekeeping, laundry, and transportation are standard amenities.

Some independent living communities offer a theme and endless senior-friendly activities that include things such as:

Trips to casinos
Travel clubs and cruises
Fitness classes, golf, tennis, and swimming
Cooking classes and a focus on fine dining
Onsite clinics and wellness programs

Although some seniors use community transportation, many still drive, go to work, and enjoy their retirement life outside of the community. Independent living offers a social network and reliable services that cater exclusively to the needs of older adults.

Assisted Living

Assisted living residences are best described as housing for people with disabilities or older adults who cannot or choose not to live independently. Most offer apartments that can be appointed with furniture of the resident’s choosing, resulting in a more home-like environment.

Seniors in assisted living enjoy the group environment to keep up with friends and like-minded people. Almost all of these communities offer personal care, medication, dining, housekeeping, and laundry services. Some allow pets and offer pet care services.

These senior living communities provide transportation to and from doctor’s appointments, and many also offer in-house visiting physician services. Depending on the facility, additional care services may include:

Podiatry
Audiology
In-house rehabilitative services
Dentistry

Some assisted living communities offer memory care for seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Care is provided to these residents by specialized staff members who understand the needs of people experiencing memory loss.

Memory Care

Memory care is a specific type of assisted living designed for individuals needing long-term care to maintain their quality of life. This specialized service is for seniors with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Our Connections program engages emotions, encourages movement, challenges the brain, and supports socialization through the Connect, Move, Learn sequence. Here’s how we do it:

Engaging the Emotions: We use music, art, and social interaction to trigger memory and positive emotions. Activities like SingFit, a program that uses classic songs to elevate mood and improve speech, and hobbies like painting, drawing, and crafts help your loved one stay engaged and joyful.

Encouraging Movement: The mind-body connection is crucial for maintaining quality of life. We offer activities like boxing, walking clubs, and other fitness programs under careful supervision. These activities not only keep the body active but also stimulate the mind.

Challenging the Brain: We continuously find new ways for residents to engage with information. Our brain-stimulating activities include word games, reminiscence therapy, book club, and story time. Plus, we provide brain-healthy foods to support cognitive health.

Supporting Socialization: Regular interaction is vital for mental health and cognition. We offer a variety of group activities to foster relationships and provide a sense of belonging and structure.

My firsthand experience inspires the Connections program in the memory care field. It’s not just about my experience. It’s about the collective experience of our dedicated and caring team, who are committed to enhancing the lives of our residents every day.

Nursing Homes

People who do not need to be in a hospital but cannot be cared for at home may opt for short-term stays in a nursing home. In contrast to independent and assisted living communities, nursing home facilities typically operate under a medical model rather than a residential care model.

This form of senior care includes professional rehabilitation and services for people who have acute needs or may be chronically ill. Nursing homes employ skilled nurses who care for patients’ medical needs 24 hours a day.

Due to the medical model, Medicare helps pay for this temporary senior living option. Some care services may be covered by insurance in assisted living, but not things like monthly rent.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)

CCRCs are retirement communities that offer a continuum of support for aging care needs. It supports the aging-in-place philosophy of not needing to move as needs change. These communities provide the most common senior services on one campus:

Independent living
Assisted living and memory care
Skilled nursing

These various levels of housing and care may be arranged on different floors or wings of a single high-rise building or in physically adjacent buildings. The emphasis of the CCRC model is to enable residents to avoid having to move facilities. The next level of care is down the hall or in the building next door if needs change.

Deciding How to Choose a Retirement Community

Regardless of the type of retirement community you choose, there are some questions to consider to ensure the best fit. The National Institute on Aging suggests the following:

What do you want in retirement?
What is important to you—nursing care, meals, physical therapy, a religious connection, hospice care, or special care units for dementia care?
Do you want a place close to loved ones for regular visitation?

Talk with friends, family, church members, social workers, and health care providers to see their suggestions.

Call and visit different facilities to see how many people live there, what it costs, and what services they offer. Inquire as to whether they have a waitlist.

Visiting a community is your chance to interview them and make requests to guide your decision. Don’t hesitate to ask:

For a meal
To meet with the directors
To meet with a representative from the nursing department

Try revisiting the location without calling ahead on another day of the week. Get to know other staff members and activities at different times of the day.

Keep a mental checklist in your head and notice things like:

Is the dining room attractive and clean?
Does the food look and smell tempting?
Do residents seem happy?
Are the activities engaging?
Are people friendly?

Ask for a copy of the residency contract to review. Carefully read the agreement and question the director about anything you need help understanding. Ask a friend or family member to read over the contract as well.

Independent living communities are not licensed. Assisted living, nursing homes, and CCRCs must regularly pass state inspections. You can find state inspection reports online or ask the community for a copy.

Facilities that accept Medicare and Medicaid funds must be certified and pass state surveys.

Find a Retirement Community Near You

Visit a Pegasus Senior Living community to learn about what a retirement home looks like and how it benefits older adults. Our senior living specialists are happy to be a resource in your journey to finding the best retirement lifestyle.

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