Senior Living/Health, Mind, Body Flip Magazine (Summer)

Bikeway Map

Madison County Transit Trails

MCT Bluff Trail

MCT Confluence

MCT Goshen Trail

MCT Ronald J. Foster Heritage Trail

MCT Monarch Valley Trail

MCT Nature Trail

MCT Nickel Plate Trail

MCT Quercus Grove

MCT Riverbend Trail

MCT Schoolhouse Trail

MCT Silver Creek Trail

MCT Watershed Trail

Power of Parks & Green Spaces

Green spaces can have a profoundly positive impact on adults and children alike. Researchers at the

University of Chicago found that green spaces near schools promote cognitive development in children, while visible

green spaces near children’s homes promote behaviors associated with selfcontrol. Researchers also found that

adults assigned to public housing units in neighborhoods with more green space were more capable of effectively

performing daily activities requiring attention than those assigned to units with less access to natural environments.

Individuals are urged to guard against sunburns and skin cancer by applying a sunscreen. But what does SPF and the various numbers associated with it mean? SPF refers to sun protection factor. The SPF rating, according to Verywell Health, refers to how long a person can stay in the sun without getting burned while wearing the sunscreen compared to how long he or she could stay in the sun before burning without wearing sunscreen. For example, if you normally burn after 10 minutes in the sun and you apply an SPF 15 product, it will take

15 times longer to burn in the sun, or 150 minutes (2.5 hours). Wearing a higher SPF product doesn’t protect you better, it does protect you for longer durations. Therefore, you could conceivably wear an SPF 5 and with frequent reapplication, get the same level of protection as wearing SPF 45. Higher number SPF products may be preferable since people can easily get distracted or forget to apply sunscreen regularly while outdoors. But experts recommend reapplication of sunscreen every two hours, regardless of the SPF number on your sunscreen bottle.

Is Ca abis an Aphrodisiac?

e Science Behind How Getting High Could Elevate Your Sex Life

By: Elissa Esher - Hearst

If you’re looking to take your sex life up a notch, you may want to start by getting high. That’s right. According to hundreds of consumers, cannabis can produce “increased physical sensations and overall emotional experience” in the bedroom, and infuses your intimate moments with “dreamy” vibes. Consumers report a range of effects including better orgasms, increased blood flow to the genitals, heightened sexual desire, and a “tingly” sensation from using cannabis and/or CBD products before intercourse.

Multiple cannabis companies have picked up on the trend, creating their own lines of marijuana and CBD sex products, including CBD arousal oil, sexenhancing tinctures, and “weed lube.”

Tara Wells, Founder of the California-based cannabis delivery service Ganja Goddess, says she believes the relaxation that comes with being high is the primary reason canna-sex products are so popular.

“The key to increased pleasure during sex is relaxation,” Wells told GreenState. “Using cannabis or hemp-based CBD at the right dose relaxes your body and liberates your emotions. It holds the keys to various locks stored away inside of us, and when opened, it can ease pain, increase sensation and

enhance sexual pleasure.”

But where’s the proof?

According to Cannabis Clinician Dr. Leigh Vinocur, evidence for this phenomena is scarce. Since the FDA does not regulate sex products, most “research” on the subject is anecdotal, and instead of being reported in scientific journals, it’s upvoted on Reddit.

She did, however, say that THC and CBD react to a part of the brain associated with pleasure and reward called the endocannabinoid system. So, theoretically, getting high could stimulate arousal.

“We know that sexual arousal and function has to do with both the brain and the body,” Vinocur told GreenState. “For women, especially, there is generally a big

psychological association with sex – it is very much about the connection and what’s going on in their heads. So, I believe the effects of cannabis on sex are more psychological than anything else –and that can be very helpful.”

Vinocur said one psychological change that could affect sexual performance is decreased anxiety.

“For a lot of people, the stress and worry of today’s world can affect their ability to orgasm or enjoy sex,” Vinocur said. “If you find cannabis takes away your anxiety and pushes bad memories far away, I’m sure it can help.”

Another way Vinocur said cannabis may help with sex is by mitigating any pain the handicapped and those with chronic illnesses may experience

during intercourse. Cannabis is used as an alternative pain-reliever by many people with chronic illnesses, but should be used with extreme caution at first and, if possible, in consultation with a medical professional.

When it comes to serious sexual disorders, though, Vinocur said cannabis shouldn’t be your go-to remedy.

While it’s theoretically possible for THC and CBD to enhance sexual pleasure, performance issues such as erectile dysfunction or intense sexual anxiety should be brought to the attention of a doctor before you slather up in weed-lube.

Likewise, those who find they become anxious after smoking or have any other adverse reaction to THC should steer clear of cannabis sex products.

“If you have any kind of sexual dysfunction, you should get checked by a doctor to be sure there’s not a physiological reason for it,” Vinocur said. “Then, if you want to experiment with it but are not used to using cannabis products, you might want to make sure you react well in private before you try it with a partner.”

Elissa Esher is Assistant Editor at GreenState. Her work has also appeared in The Boston Guardian, Brooklyn Paper, Religion Unplugged, and Iridescent Women. Send inquiries and tips to elli.esher@hearst.com.

Summer Can Be Ruff For Dogs

National Heat Awareness Day is the last Friday of May, but for dogs — particularly breathing-impaired breeds (BIB) like boxers, bulldogs and pugs — the heat presents life-threatening challenges every day during the warmer months.

By: Melissa Rae Sanger

Growing up, my family and I shared our home with boxers we had adopted from the local animal shelter.

Like most dogs, they wanted to be with their family all the time (and vice versa). But on warm summer days, while I was running through the sprinklers and riding my bike up and down the sidewalk, they had to stay indoors with the air conditioning blasting.

As much as they would have loved to run around with me, we knew it was too dangerous: The heat could have killed them.

All dogs rely on panting to cool off, but BIBs, who struggle just to breathe because they have been bred for unnaturally flattened faces and distorted airways, are nearly twice as likely to suffer from heatstroke as other dogs.

Last year, countless dogs and other companion animals died from heat-related causes, but only 54 of those deaths made the news. Many of them

were BIBs, including one who died in a greenhouse and another who died after a dog sitter allegedly left him unattended in her yard.

Even for dogs without breathing impairments, heat can kill quickly. Never leave a dog inside a parked car, even for brief periods. In the time it takes to pick up a few items at the grocery store or send a package, your car can become a dangerous inferno. On a 75-degree day, the temperature inside a parked car can soar to 104 degrees in 20 minutes, and up to 119 degrees on a 90-degree day! Think leaving the windows partially open will help?

Think again. Studies show that this does nothing to make it safe inside the carturned-oven.

Leave dogs at home when you run errands, and scan parking lots and listen for barking as you come and go. If you see an animal locked in a car, note the car’s make, model, color and license plate number. Ask the management

of nearby businesses to page the car’s owner, and be persistent. If they refuse or the owner doesn’t promptly arrive, call animal control and/or 911. If the dog is in imminent danger, find a witness who will back up your account, and do whatever is necessary to save a life. Never leave until the dog is safe.

Heatstroke is a medical emergency, so it’s important to know the signs. If a dog appears restless, has a darkened tongue, is breathing rapidly, appears lethargic, is vomiting or is having a seizure, you must act quickly. Dogs experiencing heatstroke can

sustain brain damage and die within just 15 minutes. Exercise caution with physical activity in warm weather. Walk dogs in the early morning and late evening hours when it’s cooler outside, keep them indoors with fans and/or air conditioning running during peak temperatures and always have fresh water available. Dogs sweat mainly through their footpads, and any type of exertion can cause them to overheat quickly in the warm summer sun. Never take dogs running with you when temperatures are high — rather than leave your side, they will keep up until they collapse.

Hot pavement, asphalt and even natural trails reflect heat onto dogs’ bodies, raising their temperature even more, and can cause blisters and burns on their footpads in just one minute. Always test the surface before setting out by placing your hand on it for at least 10 seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for a dog’s feet. Pick routes with shady, grassy areas, and remember to take plenty of breaks and offer sips of clean, cool water.

Please also look out for dogs who are left chained or penned in backyards. Ensure that they have adequate potable water, shade and

shelter, and encourage their owners to let them inside and treat them as family members. If you see an animal in distress, call 911 immediately.

If you take the proper precautions, summer can be smooth sailing for you and your dog. As for my parents’ current adopted dog, Finn, he’ll spend his mornings at the park, afternoons chilling inside and evenings hanging out on the porch with the family, listening to the bullfrogs.

Melissa Rae Sanger is a staff writer for the PETA Foundation.

Turn the key to your next vacation rental

Patrons can check out:

• cookbooks • health books

• exercise books • yoga DVDs

• exercise DVDs • pilates DVDs

• other health/wellness related DVDs

• pedometers

• gardening kits from the library

We offer mindfulness and nature-related programming

We offer a Walking Book Club

W ith their library card, patrons can access the Consumer Health Complete online database 24/7 through the library’s website

www.haynerlibrary.org

Vacation time is included in many full-time professionals’ benefit packages. Too often, however, employees feel that personal time off is a luxury they cannot afford to use. When looking at vacation as a necessity rather than a luxury, workers may be more inclined to start planning time off.

The Harvard Business Review reports that data supports the notion that those who take more than 10 days of vacation are 30 percent more likely to receive a raise. Those who vacation often have greater job satisfaction. The World Health Organization found working 55 hours or more per week was associated with a 35 percent higher risk of stroke and a 17 percent higher risk of dying from heart disease than a standard work week. Studies have found that taking regular vacations may help reduce the risk for metabolic syndrome, which raises an individual’s risk for various diseases.

People have different choices when planning vacations, and that includes a bevy of lodging options. The following is a breakdown of the types of properties vacationers can choose from.

• Rental by owner: Various companies facilitate the relationship between rental owner and renter. These include Airbnb, HomeAway and Vrbo, among others. These properties are stand-alone or in shared buildings. They’re frequently large and feature cooking spaces and multiple bedrooms, and typically do not come with the extra fees that some other vacation accommodations may tack on, such as paid parking.

• Bed and breakfast (B&B): A B&B rental is in a private home or inn. While accommodations may vary, one may get

a private bedroom in the residence that may or may not include a private bathroom.

B&B accommodations are smaller in scale than hotels, but offer a measure of personalized attention. B&B staff can help plan excursions and give opinions on attractions or restaurants in the area. As the name implies, breakfast is likely included in the stay, but guests may need to ferret out other meals.

• Hotel: A hotel is one of the more familiar vacation rentals that customers may encounter. They traditionally are large buildings that house many rooms. Shared spaces can include restaurants, gyms, pool areas, bars, and conference spaces. Some meals may be included in a hotel

stay, like a continental breakfast. Perks may vary depending on the property.

• Motel: Motels are smaller and tend to be less luxurious than hotels. However, they can include basic accommodations that are perfect for shortterm stays or breaks from long drives.

• All-inclusive: Allinclusive rentals generally are housed inside resort facilities. One price tends to cover the room, meals, activities, and sometimes even spirits. All-inclusive properties can cater to adults only or families. If the desire is to drop your bags and relax, an allinclusive resort may be a place to consider.

• Time share: Technically not a rental, a time share, according to Investopedia, is a shared ownership

What Teens Are Getting Wrong About Mental Health

I grew up with a mom who’s a therapist, which meant that feelings moved through the air in our home like oxygen.

It’s not that we talked about feelings all the time, or that I’d say something about my day and she’d ask, “How do you feel about that?” Instead, it was more that no matter what I felt — sad, worried, mad, confused, lonely, whatever — it was never something to fix or make disappear.

The world didn’t stop when I was unhappy or uncomfortable. It was never a big deal. I’d just have to feel whatever I felt — good or bad — and that, my mom believed, was the key to emotional health.

But this isn’t what I saw in many of my friends’ families. Ironically, it was homes with no therapists in them where feelings were constantly monitored. If friends were upset that a teacher gave them a bad grade, or they were left out of a social event, their parents would spring into action.

First, they’d try to fix it — by talking to the teacher, or calling another parent — and if that didn’t work, they’d try to cheer up their kids by letting them have extra screen time or distracting them with a trip to the mall or allowing them to take off for what schools started

By: Zach Gogglieb

calling a mental health day.

In my house, discomfort wasn’t just OK, it was encouraged. We talked about coping with difficult feelings, not avoiding them or trying to make them go away with screen time, the food court or parental involvement. My mom’s view was almost existential: Life is hard, and there’s no way around that. But if you can get comfortable with discomfort, she told me, you’ll be a more emotionally resilient person. If something upsetting happened to me, her typical response wasn’t, “That’s terrible! Let’s figure out what to do!” She’d say, “I understand why you’re upset” or just, “I’m sorry, and I’m here.” She’d sit and listen and hear me out, but then we’d go on with our days.

“I want you to be comfortable with discomfort,” my mom once said. It confused me at first, but then I understood: Because I’m OK with discomfort, I don’t fall apart when life gets, well, uncomfortable.

Ever since the surgeon general sounded the alarm on youth mental health in 2021, parents and educators have been trying to figure out how to help teens in my generation who are struggling amid rising rates of depression and anxiety. That’s an understandable goal.

What worries me, though, is the possibility that many in my generation are confusing mental health issues with normal discomfort, to the point that the term “mental health” is becoming so diluted that it’s starting to lose meaning.

Social media play a large role in this, promoting pseudotechnical and pathologizing language — often leading to cancellation — as the antidote to emotional discomfort. Instead of talking through these situations or trying to understand another perspective better, we run away to the supposed comfort of not having to deal with them. Click — they’re blocked.

Colleges have disinvited speakers who might be triggering to some students or created “safe spaces” where students can go instead; students in high schools and middle schools can choose not to attend assemblies that might be triggering; TV shows and podcasts tell us in advance that we might be triggered by a certain topic discussed, so we should skip that episode in case it makes us uncomfortable. We strive to make everyone comfortable, all the time and in every way — an impossible goal.

All of the warnings are wellintentioned and supposedly in

service of our mental health. And of course, many people my age face mental health stressors that go far beyond the disappointments and conflicts of daily life. Anxiety and depression are serious concerns that need to be addressed, and treatment should be encouraged and accessible.

But I wonder if, more broadly, we’re normalizing an almost hyper-vigilant avoidance of anything uncomfortable. By insisting that the mere mention of something difficult is bad for our mental health, are we protecting ourselves from emotional damage — or damaging ourselves emotionally? Are we really that emotionally fragile, or are we teaching ourselves to become more fragile than we actually are?

Now, as a teenager, I appreciate that my mom didn’t always try to smooth things out for me. It taught me that rather than avoiding something uncomfortable, it’s often healthier to face it and see what happens. If we’re to fully promote mental health, discomfort should be part of its definition.

Zach Gottlieb is the 17-yearold founder of Talk With Zach and a high school student in Los Angeles.

Upcoming Races for Your Sole

Saturday, June 24th

Eckert’s Blackberry Bolt Eckerts, Belleville, IL

Saturday, June 24th The Macklind Mile St. Louis, MO

Sunday, June 25th

Head for the Cure 5k/Walk St. Louis, MO

Saturday, June 25th Blue Line Run Wentzville, MO

Saturday, July 1st

Firecracker Flight 4 & 8 Mile St. Louis, MO

Tuesday, July 4th America’s Birthday 5k St. Louis, MO

Saturday, July 8th Beer & Bagel Run St. Louis County, MO

Saturday, July 15th Beca’s Five Creve Coeur, MO

Saturday, July 15th

Heroes for Autism 5k and Mile St. Louis, MO

Saturday, July 22nd

Joshua’s Great Things 5k and Fun Run Shiloh, IL

Saturday, July 22nd Race to Remember St. Peters, MO

Saturday, July 29th 8th Annual 5-0 5k Donut Run/Walk Collinsville, IL

Saturday, Aug. 12th Feed My Sheep Ministry 5K Fairview Heights, IL

Saturday, Aug. 12th Strides for Hope 5K St. Charles, MO

Sunday, Aug. 20th I Love Forest Park 5K St. Louis, MO

Sunday, Aug. 27th Summer Sizzler St. Charles, MO

Saturday, Sept. 2nd Corps of Discovery Half Marathon & 5M St. Charles, MO

Saturday, Sept. 9th Kirkwood Greentree Rotary Ramble Kirkwood, MO

Saturday, Sept. 9th Northside Trap Run St. Louis, MO

Saturday, Sept. 9th Dash for Donuts St. Peters, MO

Saturday, Sept. 9th

Eckert’s Belleville Farm Wine Run 5k Eckerts Belleville, IL

Saturday, Sept. 9th

St. Jude Walk/Run St. Louis, MO

Sunday, Sept. 10th Lap the Lake Race Series Lake St. Louis, MO

Sunday, Sept. 10th Duo Dash St. Louis, MO

Saturday, Sept. 16th

Italian Fest 5k Collinsville, IL

Saturday, Sept. 16th Light The Darkness Glow Run Florissant, MO

Sunday, Sept. 24th

St. Charles Oktoberfest 5K/10K St. Charles, MO

Saturday, Sept. 23rd

Harvest Moon 5K Run and Walk St. Louis County, MO

Saturday, Sept. 30th

Belleville Main Street Marathon historical downtown Belleville, IL

Saturday, Sept. 30th

ZERO Prostate Cancer Run/Walk St. Louis, MO

EVERY DAY THERE ARE THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE ACROSS OUR REGION WHO NEED HELP.

OUR MISSION IS TO UNITE PEOPLE, RESOURCES AND FUNDING TO HELP BUILD STRONG AND EQUITABLE COMMUNITIES WHERE OUR NEIGHBORS CAN THRIVE!

Help feed and shelter our neighbors. Help teach, counsel and keep children safe. Help families overcome crises, find work and stay healthy.

Unite with us.

Volunteer Donate. Get Involved. helpingpeople.org

COMPLIMENTARY ISSUE

Is

It Time To Consider MEMORY CARE

Maintaining INDEPENDENCE When Aging

IATP Supports Aging with Independence

At the Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP), we understand the importance of maintaining independence and the ability to enjoy life as we age. As we age, our bodies undergo changes that can affect our overall health, making it more challenging to do the things we love. Assistive technology can help overcome some of the physical challenges associated with aging. Using assistive technology makes it easier to perform activities to maintain independence and quality of life. It contributes to staying in your home as long as possible.

I am your local professional who will sit down with you and help you understand all of your options, and explain which will be the most suitable plan, instead of pushing one certain plan on you.

I

I will help you make sense of your options and answer your questions so that you are confident with your decision. Call me today

How

does IATP serve the Aging Community?

Assistive Technology (AT) is any device, equipment, or gadget that helps to bridge gaps in a person’s ability to live a full, independent life. AT can be high-tech, low-tech, or no-tech. AT can help many people in different ways, but for the aging community, the main goal is to reduce reliance on other people and care systems and help them stay in their homes longer. IATP offers numerous assistive technology programs and services to learn about and try AT devices.

Demonstration Center and Smart Home Display

As we age, sometimes it only takes the right equipment or device that allows us to continue to do important things or take preventative measures for risk reduction. At our Demonstration Center, located in Springfield, Illinois, a variety of assistive technology is showcased. Visitors learn about AT and gain hands-on experience with each device’s features and possible benefits. The Demonstration Center includes areas devoted to vision, daily living, communication, hearing, mobility, computer access, accessible bathroom, accessible kitchen, and more. Also featured is a simulated 5-room home environment highlighting the latest Smart Home technology. Smart home technology can alert others to emergencies, maintain safety, and increase independence in the home. IATP Smart Home experts guide visitors through a hands-on experience with smart devices in the Demo Center. They visit customers in

their homes to assess the advantages of adding smart technology. Many devices in the Demo Center are available to be borrowed for a 6-week trial period to assist in decisionmaking on the appropriateness of the device for the user.

Reutilization for Durable Medical Equipment and AT

Medical expenses can be overwhelming. No one should go without needed equipment or

Continued on Page 7

BRIA Rooms

...because there is

Our Mission

BRIA Health Services is a proven leader in rehabilitation and skilled nursing. Conveniently located minutes from most communities’ hospitals. We work tirelessly to strike the perfect balance between compassionate, individualized care and the latest advances in rehabilitation and skilled nursing practice and technology in all the services we provide while doing everything in our power to ensure our clients get everything they need. The facilities offer amenities such as full-time activities, an Occupational Therapy room for a home-like setting, and much more! Comprehensive medical services including 24-hour nursing care, physical, occupational and speech therapy, and social activities provided in a safe and supportive environment are just some of what we do best!

Continued From Page 5

devices due to being unable to purchase them. The IATP Reuse Program provides recycled equipment and devices on loan until the time that it is no longer needed. Equipment available can include, but is not limited to, wheelchairs, shower chairs, transfer benches, grab bars, and more. Delivery is available in the state of Illinois if pickup at our Springfield location is not possible.

Maintaining Social Connections

Communication is a basic human need that connects us to others. Barriers to communications can take many forms. Physical changes and certain medical conditions can alter our ability to communicate. Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) devices are available to suit various communication needs. IATP provides free AAC evaluation and training services to those who need to re-establish their “voices.”

Older adults are at increased risk for social isolation. Using assistive technology such as iPads and tablets can be an essential link to the community. Illinois CARE

Connections is a collaborative program with the Illinois Department on Aging, Community Care Program, and Illinois

Assistive Technology Program to provide technology to support seniors in Illinois who are in danger of being socially isolated and experiencing loneliness. Technology bundles are provided following a referral from a provider agency. Bundles include an iPad or tablet and accessories. They are shipped directly to the program participant to help them stay connected to family, friends, and their community.

We Are Here to Support You!

The mission of IATP is to provide Illinoisans of all ages with health conditions or disabilities greater access to assistive technology devices and services to enhance their independence and participation in all aspects of life. IATP works closely with representatives of relevant organizations to ensure the aging community of Illinois is served by our everchanging and expanding array of assistive technology devices and services. Visit our website at www.iltech.org for more information on how we serve the community or call us directly at 1-800-8525110. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

Nestled in a quiet, residential neighborhood, Eden Village is surrounded by 18 acres of beautifully manicured-lawns, lushly landscaped grounds, towering trees walking trails and picnic areas. Eden Village is a well-established, accessible and trusted resource in the heart of the Glen Carbon community. We have provided a full continuum of exceptional services to seniors at every stage of life, from independent living to skilled nursing care, for more than 40 years.

INDEPENDENT LIVING

Perfectly blending convenience, comfort and style, our Garden Homes and Residences make independent living easy and carefree.

ASSISTED LIVING

Need a little extra help? Our Assisted living option offers you the comfort and dignity of home with the security and peace of mind that help is always there when you need it.

SKILLED

If you require 24-hour nursing assistance, our Skilled Nursing Facility offers the highest quality, comprehensive medical and rehabilitative care in a safe, compassionate environment.

When Parents Say ‘No’ to Home Care Because of Cost Worries

By Nikki Bishop, Franchise Owner, from the Home Instead® o ce in Edwardsville, IL

Most aging adults want to remain in their homes as they age. Those of us in the home care industry have heard this time and again, and it’s an opinion confirmed by research.

According to a study commissioned by Home Instead, Inc., for the Home Instead® network, 86 percent of seniors want to live at home for as long as possible. But many older adults need help to achieve that goal.

In fact, as individuals age, some form of care is often necessary to remain at home. There generally are two types of home care:

• Home health care provided by licensed medical professionals for which the individual has received an order or prescription from a healthcare provider.

• In-home care such as personal care, homemaker or companionship services provided by professional

caregivers. Cost can be a concern for many aging adults. Perhaps you have these apprehensions yourself or your aging parents have expressed this worry. But home care can help older adults stay independent and home longer, and cost doesn’t need to be a roadblock. Research reveals that home care is, in fact, one of the most affordable options available, according to industry surveys. Consider this, from the 2021 Genworth Cost of Care Survey: Nationally, the daily costs of homemaker services ($163) compare favorably with $260 for a semiprivate nursing home room. So, older adults could stay in their own homes with the support they need to remain independent.

Not only could home care allow your parents to remain at home, services are designed to be flexible and geared to their needs. For example, Home

Instead provides at-home care and companionship support for aging adults from a few hours a day to 24-7 support. Services span the care continuum – from providing personal care to specialized Alzheimer’s care and hospice support.

Because home care services, both home health and in-home care, are often only required for a few hours a week, the savings to aging adults can be significant. A Home Instead, Inc. study indicates that 22 percent of the Home Instead network’s clients employ Care Professionals for four hours or less per week, and another 20 percent of clients employ Care Pros between four and eight hours each week. Depending on the level of care needed, home care has the potential to save thousands of dollars a month compared with nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

IS IT TIME TO CONSIDER MEMORY CARE?

aking the decision to move a loved one to a memory care community can be an emotional process and will represent a major lifestyle change. It’s not easy to think about transitioning a parent, friend, grandparent, etc. away from living independently, especially if they are still in their own home. However, Alzheimer’s and dementiarelated diseases progress over time, sometimes much quicker than anticipated. Most family members are not equipped to care for someone with dementiarelated illnesses. Eventually, a loved one with dementia may need round-the clock care and supervision for their own health and safety. Memory care is often the best, safest, and least stressful option for both the individual with dementia or Alzheimer’s and their caregiver.

members? Are they isolated at home, unable to keep up with conversations, and forgetting important events like birthdays or anniversaries? Individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia-related diseases often become uncomfortable driving a vehicle or hesitant to go to formerly frequented locations outside of the home, like stores, loved ones’ homes, church, etc.

Stress on Others

and supervision for their own health and safety. Memory

signs that it is time to start

Here are three definitive signs that it is time to start researching memory care options.

Overall Decline in Health

A decline in cognitive capabilities often leads to a decline in overall health and wellness. You may notice your loved one has poor hygiene and is unable to manage household responsibilities and deadlines like delinquent bills or missed appointments. A significant drop or increase in weight, frequent slips, trips, or falls, disturbed sleep patterns, and improper medication management can also be signs that your loved one can no longer care for themselves at home.

and is unable to manage

While it is an honor and privilege to care for a loved one, it can become overwhelming for caregivers and can lead to added stress and a decline in physical health and well-being. Many caregivers also notice a struggle to keep up with their own household duties, declined participation in social activities, and a strain on other personal relationships. Memory care communities take the weight of full-time caregiving off the shoulders of family and friends. While an Alzheimer’s disease or related dementia diagnosis is the first sign that it is time to begin researching memory care providers, the best time to have this discussion is before your loved one’s symptoms worsen. It is much easier to do research and make these important decisions when you are well prepared than when you are stressed or in a crisis.

Declining Social Life

Is your loved one interacting less with friend and family

Is your loved one interacting

It is important to find a memory care program that ensures everyday interactions are filled with purpose and life is experienced at a pace unique to each individual. The right community will strive to preserve genuine contentment that remains even after memories fade.

Written By: Annie Eads Addington Place of Edwardsville welcome@addingtonplaceedwardsville.com www.addingtonplaceedwardsville.com

Home automation that allows a user to monitor and control numerous items throughout the home including securit y, climate, lighting, appliances, enter tainment systems, self-care options, and more.

Learn About Smar t Home Technology

The IATP Demonstration Center features a five-room interac tive Smar t Home Display which provides hands on experience with home automation. If you are unable to join us in person, vir tual tours and demonstrations are available.

Helping You Maintain Independence in Your Home

Smar t Home Evaluations are conduc ted by IATP Smar t Home specialists. The program focuses on ser ving those who receive ser vices from one of the major bureaus of the Illinois Depar tment of Human Resources, Division of Rehabilitation. However, if you think Smar t Home technology can help you achieve greater independence in your living environment, please contac t us for more information.

Te c hnology Available:

• Home A ssis t ant s

• Video Doorbells

• Temperature Control

• Lighting

• Lock s

• Home Securit y

• And More…