What Age Can You Stop Filing Income Taxes
Written by Brian B

What Age Can You Stop Filing Income Taxes?

For the tax year 2021, you may stop filing taxes at age 65 if:

  • You are at least 65 years old, unmarried and making less than $14,250.
  • You are at least 65 years old, married, filing jointly and making less than $26,450.
  • You are a qualified widow, earning less than $26,450.

The IRS will want individuals to file a tax return whenever your gross income surpasses the total of the standard deduction for your specific filing status, in addition to one exemption amount. The filing rules still apply to seniors who are living off their social security. If you are a senior citizen, though, you don’t consider your social security as your gross income. You will not need to file a tax return if social security is your only source of income.

When Do Seniors Have To File Taxes?

For the current tax year, you must file a tax return if you are 65-plus, unmarried and your gross income is at least $14,250. However, if you live on your social security benefits, you will not need to include this in your gross income, according to TurboTax. You do not need to file if this is your sole source of income, meaning your gross income comes out to zero dollars. If you do earn additional income, that is not tax exempt, then you must figure out whether the total exceeds $14,250.

Whenever you and your spouse are at least 65 years old, married and filing jointly, you have to file a return if your combined income is $27,800 or more. If your spouse is below the age of 65, then the threshold amount decreases to $26,450. These figures were implemented during the 2018 tax year, so make sure to check if the amounts have increased.

When To Include Social Security In Gross Income

Certain situations will call for seniors to add social security benefits in their gross income. If you are married, filing an individual tax return and residing with your spouse, 85% of your social security benefits will be deemed gross income. In this case, you may need to file a tax return. An allotment of social security benefits will be included in your gross income, regardless of status, in any year the total of half your social security, including all other income, tax-exempt interest, exceeding $25,000 or $32,000 as long as you are married and filing jointly.

When Do You Stop Paying Taxes On Social Security?

You are allowed to stop paying taxes on social security at 65 as long as your total income is not a high figure. You can read all about taxes and social security rules right here courtesy of Turbo Tax.

Tax Credits For Seniors

Even if you must file a tax return, there are a few ways to decrease the amount you’ll pay on your taxable income. As long as you are 65-plus years old and your income from alternative sources than social security are not high, then tax credits for seniors can lessen your tax bill. This tax credit is only useful when you owe the IRS.

Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at (623) 624-4406 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

Written by Brian B

Cost Of Memory Care Facilities Near Me

Memory Care Cost

The average cost of memory care is $5,655 a month with costs ranging from $1,595 to $9,715 in Youngtown, Arizona in 2022.

The average costs for memory care ranges from $1,595 – $9,715+ a month. Prices shift dependent on location, services, and elderly care needs. While many services such as meals, medication handling, and group activities will be included, others will not. I.e., residents could have access to clothe washing services, lunch trips, or beauty amenities, like hair-cuts or pedicures, but those could cost extra.

When a senior is suffering with Alzheimer’s of Huntington’s disease, keeping them safe and well takes precedence that could be mentally and emotionally draining on their loved ones. Concerning demeanors that can be hard to safely control, such as roaming and aggressiveness, begin to emerge. For family care takers, like spouses and adult children, fulfilling their loved one’s complicating — and changing — requirements can be a major struggle.

The following are some ways to pay for memory care:

  • Medicare
  • Medicaid
  • Life Insurance
  • Long-Term Care Insurance
  • Reverse Mortgages

Memory Care At Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at (623) 624-4406 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

11 Signs It Might Be Time For Assisted Living
Written by Brian B

11 Signs It Might Be Time For Assisted Living

Here are 11 common signs that it may be time to consider assisted living care for your loved one.

1. Chronic Health Issues

Unfortunately, chronic health problems will only worsen with age. Additionally, the immune system can weaken, meaning illnesses will last longer at this point. If your loved one is experiencing any sort of chronic issues, then now is the time to consider a transition into assisted living care.

2. Aggressive Behavior

Individuals suffering from dementia will become more and more agressive as the disease progresses. This is not a reflection in any way of how the individual is being cared for, it’s simply an effect of dementia.

Caring for someone who exhibits aggressive behavior can be overwhelming. Verbal and physical abuse are clear indicators that 24/7 care is needed. Dealing with an aggressive individual is a task best left to the trained professionals.

3. Recent Falls/Injuries

The frequent occurrence of falls in and around the home is an indicator that alternative care is necessary. Mobility issues are all-too-common for seniors, and there are many problem areas in most homes. If your loved one takes a nasty spill and can’t get to the phone to call for help, it could have disastrous consequences.

4. Difficulty With Daily Tasks

For some seniors even the easiest of tasks can be difficult to accomplish. When typical housework like cooking and cleaning becomes too complicated, it may be time to consider assisted living.

Most assisted living communities can take care of a residents’ daily needs. Meal plans, along with laundry services and routine cleanings will help rid the burden of tougher daily activities.

5. Forgetting To Take Medicine

This is one of the most important areas to monitor if you are concerned about a loved one’s health and safety. Forgetting once in awhile is okay, but if this becomes a pattern, it’s very worrisome. A medicine regiment is crucial to keep health conditions under control. Try looking into some systems for daily reminders. If the system(s) fails, though, assisted living care is the best option.

Medicine

6. Bad Eating Habits

Inability to cook will undoubtedly lead to a decline in eating habits. This doesn’t just mean poor nutrition, it could mean eating during irregular hours, as well.

Thankfully, assisted living communities will provide meal and snack services each and every day. Good nutrition is vital to maintain both physical and mental health. Assisted living communities can cater to your specific dietary needs and restrictions.

7. Poor Hygiene

When suffering from dementia, good hygiene is one of the first things to go out the window. Individuals may not bathe as often or cleanse properly. When this becomes noticeable, it’s wise to start looking around at assisted living options.

8. Isolation

Seniors struggling with physical or mental issues will not drive as often. This could unfortunately lead to withdrawal from society. Symptoms of isolation or depression should trigger the thought of extra care. Communities will typically offer a plethora of activities designed to promote social interaction.

9. Sundowner’s Syndrome

This is a condition where individuals with dementia become more agitated at day’s end. Essentially, this is when seniors have exerted all of their mental energy for the day. Sundowner’s syndrome is a clear sign that someone can’t survive independently.

10. Wandering

As mental awareness wanes, loved ones may be concerned about individuals wandering off and getting lost. This is a valid fear because it happens often to seniors. If this a concern of yours, do not wait until it is too late to put your loved one in a safe and secure environment.

11. Caregiver Stress

There may come a time when caring for a senior is simply overwhelming. Caregiver stress is common, whether it is a loved one or paid professional. Whenever care proves too difficult, it’s time to look at assisted living options.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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When Might Be The Best Time To Start Saving For Retirement
Written by Brian B

When Might Be The Best Time To Start Saving For Retirement?

The first step towards retirement is saving as much money as possible. When is the best time to start saving, though? We’re here to provide some tips on saving towards retirement.

When To Start Saving For Retirement

The financial experts say that everyone should begin saving as soon as they can, of course. While this seems to be a case of easier said than done, there are many available savings options for young people. A great rule of thumb is to put away 10% of your monthly income each and every month. For example, putting away 10% of your $5,000 monthly income will lead to $500 in savings. $500 saved each month for a year will equate to $6,000 in yearly savings. Not a bad start at all when it comes to saving for retirement!

Starting the savings process in your 20s will help cover you for any stock market dips. Charles Schwab conducted a recent survey which revealed that Americans believe they need to save $1.7 million by age 65. If this is the target figure, it means you will have to save a minimum of $500 per month, beginning at age 25.

Saving this amount of money monthly can be unreasonable in many cases. Many 25-year-olds are just starting out in the job market. Others may be struggling to pay off student loans and/or raising a young family. If you decide to kick your retirement savings days down the road, then the amount you’ll have to save each month will undoubtedly increase.

How To Save Money

Perhaps you are already out of your 20s and you haven’t started saving for retirement yet. Experts suggest the next best time to begin saving money is now! At this point, putting away any dollar amount you can afford is a good start. If possible, jump on your employer’s 401 (k) plan as soon as possible. Opening a traditional IRA can provide even more investment opportunities than the typical 401 (k) plan. An IRA comes with a $6,000 contribution limit for anyone under age 50.

Fortunately, there are a few other ways one can save money for retirement. Begin by putting away any unexpected or extra cash flow. This could include anything from birthday checks to bonuses. Try avoiding any luxury purchases until you know for sure that you can afford it. Put away any and all spare change for the time being. Picking up a part-time job could also prove beneficial towards retirement savings.

Retirement Savings

Average Age When Americans Start Saving For Retirement

According to Morning Consult, these are the average age groups when Americans start saving for retirement:

  • Ages 20-29: 39%
  • Ages 30-39: 25%
  • Ages 40-49: 15%
  • Ages 50-59: 6%

Tips For Spending Less Money And Saving For Retirement

One important thing to do when saving for retirement is to examine your current spending habits. Here are three simple ways to save right now:

Re-Consider Big Purchases

All large purchases need to be thought about for long periods of time. Can you make do without that new car or home renovation? If an upgrade is needed, consider some low-cost alternatives. The money you save today could be used tomorrow in your retirement.

Consolidate Your Credit Card Debt

Shifting some of your higher-interest credit card debt to a lower-interest debt consolidation loan could undoubtedly leave you with some additional savings to put towards your retirement fund.

Decrease Your Credit Card Debt

Easier said than done, but decreasing your credit card debt today is crucial. Here’s a tip: pay your credit card bills in full every month to avoid any interest charges. If that’s not possible at this point, work to pay down your credit card debt as quickly as you can.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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Best Low Stress Jobs After Retirement
Written by Brian B

Best Low Stress Jobs After Retirement

Are you looking for some work after retirement, yet want to keep the stress to a minimum? Here are a few of the best low stress jobs after retirement.

Tour Guide

There may not be a more relaxing and enjoyable job after retiring than guiding tours. With this role, you’ll likely be interacting with fun and excited tourists. Share your knowledge of the area or certain landmarks as a paid tour guide. A great benefit of this job is the flexible hours since most tours will run at nights or on the weekends.

Data Entry

Perhaps working as a tour guide doesn’t appeal to you since you’ll have to leave the home and interact with lots of people. If you’re instead interested in working from home, then a data entry position could be a perfect fit. Data entry appeals to many because you won’t have to deal with customers all day, unlike customer service representatives. All you might need for this position is a laptop and basic computer skills.

Customer Service Representative

Many people do miss the social interaction that was created in the workplace. For these type of retirees, customer service roles are ideal. In these positions, you will either speak with customers on the phone or interact with them online. A large majority of these positions went remote during the pandemic, so there should be many openings.

Career Coach

The younger generation is constantly seeking career advice. That is where you could come in! Consider the idea of helping those in need of career coaching. If you’ve seen it all during your working days, then share your knowledge, including resume and interview tips. Online video platforms like Zoom and Skype can be used to do this job from home.

Career Coach

Writer

Previous experience or not, writing can be a great outlet for retirees. For those looking to start out writing, there are plenty of online opportunities. Some gigs may not pay at first, but the experienced gained will come in handy. Consider performing the role of editor if you have years of experience.

Musician

You might have ditched many hobbies once your career took off, but retirement is the time to pick those fun hobbies back up! If playing an instrument was a big part of your past, you can now implement it into your present and future, as well. Place an ad or look for any musicians wanted in the local area. Sure, the pay might not be great, but this is about the joy of music.

Pet Sitting

There are many ways to get more animals in your life. Thanks to numerous websites and applications, dog walking or pet sitting is just a click away. Busy adults nowadays are looking for people to walk their dog(s) during the workdays. You can even offer to watch the animals overnight.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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7 Stages Of Lewy Body Dementia
Written by Brian B

7 Stages Of Lewy Body Dementia

If you are searching for the “7 stages of lewy body dementia“, this article will detail the significant life changes.

What Are The 7 Stages Of Lewy Body Dementia?

Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) is one of the most common forms of dementia today. Typically, early signs of LBD may be confused for Alzheimer’s or schizophrenia, according to nia.nih.gov. LBD can develop in combination with several different brain disorders. Generally, LBD takes a long time for symptoms to develop and become noticeable.

A typical lifespan from diagnosis to death is 5-8 years, but some recent studies suggest a lifespan of 2-20 years is also a possibility. The seven definitive stages of LBD are detailed below.

Stage 1: Normal Behavior

In stage one of LBD, individuals will show little to no signs of any present disease. There will be no noticeable symptoms of dementia and there will be no impact on the individual’s daily life.

Stage 2: Mild Change

Stage two is very similar to stage one because change in the individual’s behavior may not be noticed at all. Typically, memory issues are simply passed off as a normal part of aging.

Stage 2 Symptoms:

  • Some difficulty finding the right words.
  • Normal functioning.
  • Ability to overcome memory issues.

Stage 3: Noticeable Change

Stage three is typically the stage when others start to notice change in someone suffering from LBD. Changes may not be noticed in the individual’s thinking and reasoning. Prevalent memory issues generally start here, as well.

Stage 3 Symptoms:

  • Forgetfulness.
  • Difficulty paying attention. 
  • Trouble finding words and/or names.
  • Money management issues.
  • Problems at the workplace.

Stage 4: Mild Dementia

During stage four your loved one should still be able to remember loved ones and past events, despite the mild dementia symptoms.

Stage 4 Symptoms:

  • Making mistakes while driving.
  • Problem solving issues.
  • Problems with routine tasks.
  • More money management problems.
  • Forgetting familiar names/items.
  • Forgetting where things have been placed.

Stage 5: Moderate To Severe Mental Decline

At this stage, the individual with LBD should have increased trouble remembering to do daily tasks and past events.

Stage 5 Symptoms:

  • Mood swings.
  • Personality changes.
  • Gaps in memory.
  • Assistance needed when eating and using the bathroom.
  • Bladder problems.

Stage 6: Severe Mental Decline

Memories will start to quickly fade during this stage. 24-hour at-home care should be considered for the individual at this time.

Stage 6 Symptoms:

  • Changing eating habits.
  • Getting lost and confused.
  • Delusions.
  • Lack of awareness.
  • Bladder problems increasing.
  • Strong personality changes and mood swings.
  • Trouble speaking.

Stage 7: Severe Dementia (Final Stage)

Individuals with LBD will no longer recognize friends and family. 24-hour care is essential during the final stage.

Stage 7 Symptoms:

  • No ability to eat, swallow or speak.
  • Loss of muscle control.
  • Constantly disoriented.
  • Loss of bowel and bladder control.
  • Cannot use bathroom without assistance.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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Retiring In Arizona Pros And Cons
Written by Brian B

Retiring In Arizona Pros And Cons

More and more retirees are flocking to Arizona for the plethora of sunshine, strong economy and scenic views. If you are currently searching for “retiring in arizona pros and cons“, this will be your guide!

Retiring In Arizona Pros

  • Pro #1: Most Sun In The U.S.
  • Pro #2: Less Tax Burdens
  • Pro #3: Low Cost Of Living
  • Pro #4: Scenery
  • Pro #5: Sporting Options

Find out why so many retirees are deciding to call Arizona home!

Most Sun In The U.S.

This is not an exaggeration, this is a fact! According to the NOAA, Arizona residents experience more sunny days than anyone in the country. And this includes the sunshine state of Florida! Arizona typically experiences 299 sunny days per year. The rest of the U.S. averages only 205 sunny days each year.

Less Tax Burdens

Arizona offers less tax burdens for residents compared to other states. Allowing residents to keep as much of their income as possible has helped the valley grow exponentially for several decades.

Low Cost Of Living

Arizona boasts an extremely strong economy and a low cost of living, at the same time. This state remains one of the most affordable states to live in across the country, according to BestPlaces. Whether you are looking to move into a small studio apartment or large home, the chances are high you’ll pay less in the valley of the sun. Combining the low cost of living and strong economy/job market, and Arizona is the ideal place for any retiree.

Scenery

Arizona offers much more than gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. The valley of the sun is home to some of the best scenic hiking trails in the world. Sedona is home to the famous red rocks, plus mountain ranges, lakes and desert beauty can be seen all over the state.

Sporting Options

Known as a golfer’s paradise, the valley offers many world-class resorts and destinations. From Sedona to Tucson, retirees’ can enjoy their favorite hobby in style. The PGA’s Waste Management Phoenix Open is played annually in Scottsdale, as well. There’s more than just golf in Arizona, though! Residents also enjoy watching teams in all four major sports, including the Diamondbacks (MLB), Cardinals (NFL), Suns (NBA) and Coyotes (NHL).

Sedona Arizona

Retiring In Arizona Cons

  • Con #1: Extreme Heat
  • Con #2: Snowbirds
  • Con #3: Monsoons/Haboobs

Read more about a few drawbacks of living in the valley.

Extreme Heat

From October to April, it’s nearly impossible to find a more comfortable place to call home. The summertime, though, can bring some extreme heat to the area. Arizona frequently hits triple-digit heat during summer days. The good news is an escape is not far away! If you live in Phoenix, a short two-hour drive north can get you to Flagstaff, where the month of July experiences an average temperature of 82 degrees.

Snowbirds

Many people, especially retirees, desire a place like Arizona because it seems very isolated and secluded. This is certainly not the case during the cooler months. This time of the year will bring a lot of tourists to the area. Known as “snowbirds”, these tourists will cause an increase in traffic from October to April.

Monsoons/Haboobs

Every area experiences inclement weather, and the valley is no exception. June to September is Arizona’s monsoon season, where residents will experience strong winds and rainstorms. Haboobs, which are large dust storms, generally follow in the monsoon’s footsteps.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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Is Arizona A Good Place To Live
Written by Brian B

Is Arizona A Good Place To Live

What should you know about Arizona besides the Grand Canyon? Well, for starters life in Arizona features far more beauty than one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

In fact, the red rocks of Sedona, Horseshoe Bend and Saguaro National Park are just a few tastes of the scenic views offered in the valley of the sun. Phoenix was recently ranked as the 5th-largest city in the U.S., and it continues to grow each day. With more and more people choosing to move to Arizona, here is a look at some of the pros, cons and best spots to call home!

Pros And Cons Of Living In Arizona

Here are a few of the biggest advantages and disadvantages of life in Arizona:

Pro: Low Cost Of Living

According to BestPlaces, Arizona is more affordable than the majority of the country. Whether you are looking for a small studio apartment or large family home, chances are good that you’ll pay less than expected in the valley of the sun. Combine the low cost of living with the state’s booming economy and strong job market, and the future is certainly bright in Arizona.

Con: Summer Heat

From October to April, it’s nearly impossible to find a more comfortable place to call home. The summertime, though, can bring some extreme heat to the area. Arizona frequently hits triple-digit heat during summer days. The good news is an escape is not far away! If you live in Phoenix, a short two-hour drive north can get you to Flagstaff, where the month of July experiences an average temperature of 82 degrees.

Pro: Sunny Days

The state of Arizona gets 299 sunny days per year, which is the most in the entire country. Even the sunshine state of Florida does not receive as much sun as Arizona. Get a healthy dose of vitamin D when you move to the valley of the sun.

Con: Lots Of Tourists

Many people, especially retirees, desire a place like Arizona because it seems very isolated and secluded. This is certainly not the case during the cooler months. This time of the year will bring a lot of tourists to the area. Known as “snowbirds”, these tourists will cause an increase in traffic from October to April.

Pro: Scenery

Arizona offers much more than gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. The valley of the sun is home to some of the best scenic hiking trails in the world. Sedona is home to the famous red rocks, plus mountain ranges, lakes and desert beauty can be seen all over the state.

Con: Rattlesnakes

This is probably something you already know about Arizona. Yes, rattlesnakes live in the Arizona deserts. While you are on one of these scenic hikes, pay attention to where you are placing your feet. Arizona averages a recorded 150 rattlesnake bites per year.

Best Cities To Live In Arizona

Beyond the bigger cities like Phoenix and Tucson, Arizona has many other hotspots that continue to attract residents, including:

Youngtown, AZ

This town’s fascinating history quickly made it a favorite for retirees. Incredibly enough, Youngtown is actually the oldest retirement community in the U.S. In the mid-1950’s, developers began on an ambitious project: create the country’s first-ever planned community solely for retirees. The name Youngtown was, of course, ironically planned. Measuring just over a mile in total area, Youngtown boasts a small population, filled with the best retirement communities in the entire country. From November through April, the weather is nearly perfect, with average temperatures ranging from 76-86 degrees.

Peoria, AZ

Peoria is located northeast of Phoenix and Glendale. Due to a plethora of available land, Peoria is home to many top-notch retirement communities. Enjoy scenic views daily, and check out the Salt River which flows right through the city. Peoria’s crime rate is below the national average and the climate is ideal; topping out at 94 degrees in the month of July. Money Magazine recently named Peoria as one of the top 100 places to live.

Surprise, AZ

With a population of more than 135,000, Surprise continues to grow each year. Featuring low humidity and tons of sunshine, it’s no wonder why so many retirees are flocking to Surprise. Enjoy a much lower cost of living here, when compared to both Scottsdale and Phoenix. Sports lovers will know how special this place is. Whether you want to hit the links or catch a baseball spring training game, Surprise is the spot for you!

Sedona, AZ

You will not be able to find a more scenic location to call home than Sedona. More than six million acres of red-rock beauty surround some of the best retirement communities in the state of Arizona. Countless old western films were shot in this beautiful city, about two hours outside of Phoenix. If you are a retiree who enjoys outdoor activities, you can’t find a better spot than Sedona. Enjoy horseback rides, jeep tours and scenic hikes all throughout the year. The only downside of living in Sedona is the rising real estate costs.

Sedona Arizona

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

More Articles About Senior Living

Dealing With Aging Parents Depression
Written by Brian B

Dealing With Aging Parents Depression

Caring for a depressed parent can be a very difficult experience. Luckily, we’re here to help with seven tips on how to properly care for them.

Ways To Deal With Parents Depression

Seniors, unfortunately, experience more depression symptoms than any other age group. This typically occurs during retirement when many feel as though they don’t have many purposes in life or responsibilities. Try to take all of these steps when carefully dealing with the depression of a loved one:

Keep Them Active

Especially for seniors, physical activity is so important. Physical activity helps not only dealing with depression, but it will also help seniors live longer. Consider getting the senior in your life to regularly climb stairs and/or go for a walk. Joining a group of seniors who actively exercise is a great form of motivation. Another way to keep seniors active is to make sure they keep socializing. It is far too easy for depressed seniors to isolate at home. Getting some regular socialization in life helps us all to eat better, stay happy and live a healthier life, in general.

Take Prescriptions

If your loved one has received treatment for depression, it’s crucial that you make sure they are taking their medication(s). In addition, make sure any other prescriptions are being taken to ensure maximum health. It has been proven that a lack of energy can lead to depression, in some cases.

Get Quality Sleep

Getting quality sleep is essential for everyone, but it is undoubtedly vital for a senior battling depression. The experts recommend refraining from frequent daytime naps. These naps can impact just how well you will sleep over night. Some retirees will disrupt or get off their normal sleep patterns once their working days are in the past. Staying up later and sleeping in will only aggravate depression, and should be avoided at all costs.

How To Talk To A Parent With Dementia

Give Them More Purpose

A huge part of life is having a reason or reasons to get up in the morning. Retirement means there is no longer a job to do and/or less obligations throughout the day. It’s important for everyone, especially our aging parents, to find reasons to get up, groom themselves and get out of the door. Volunteering or getting involved with hobbies like yoga or social groups are great ways to discover more purpose in life.

Eat Well

Our diet has such an impact on the way we feel, physically and mentally. Eating a diet full of excessively starchy, sugary and containing lots of fats will only contribute to depression symptoms. Seniors should opt for diets featuring lean proteins, whole grains, fruits and vegetables.

Consult Professionals

Coping with depression is difficult, but you don’t have to let it control your life. If your parent is suffering from depression and you don’t know how to help, turn to a doctor for advice. Mental health professionals will be able to provide you with medications and/or strategies to help deal with the depression.

Consider Assisted Living Communities

Consider the idea of moving your parent into an assisted living facility. While the senior may be hesitant at first, these communities are designed to help care for them. Assisted living facilities will offer a plethora of physical and social activities, and well-balanced meals.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

More Articles About Senior Living

Best Places To Retire In Arizona
Written by Brian B

Best Places To Retire In Arizona

If you are looking for the best cities in Arizona to call home, we’re here to highlight five of the best places in the valley of the sun!

Best Cities To Retire In Arizona

Sedona, AZ

You will not be able to find a more scenic location to call home than Sedona. More than six million acres of red-rock beauty surround some of the best retirement communities in the state of Arizona. Countless old western films were shot in this beautiful city, about two hours outside of Phoenix. If you are a retiree who enjoys outdoor activities, you can’t find a better spot than Sedona. Enjoy horseback rides, jeep tours and scenic hikes all throughout the year. The only downside of living in Sedona is the rising real estate costs.

Retirement Community In Sedona

Sedona Winds, located in the heart of the red rocks, offers stunning courtyard views, along with a 24-hour staff for every need. Settle for this community if you wish to enjoy breathtaking views, daily. General maintenance, weekly laundry and deep cleaning of your apartment, an emergency call system, and a diverse activities program are all included when you choose Sedona Winds.

Mesa, AZ

Mesa is currently the third-largest city in all of Arizona, with nearly 500,000 citizens. Yet, since this city is so spread out, you will never feel like you’re congested living in a place like Phoenix. Nestled up against the Superstition Mountains, Mesa is home to some of the best hospitals in the state. Avid golfers will love Mesa, which features more than 200 world-class courses. You are never far from neighboring cities, Scottsdale and Chandler, as well.

Retirement Community In Mesa

Canyon Winds is a Senior Living Services Community located in Mesa, Arizona. This facility offers plenty of choices for senior citizens of varying needs. One can find more than just assisted living at Canyon Winds, as they also offer independent and memory care services. This resort-style facility is breathtaking, with spacious floor plans and dining areas. A full activity program and fitness center await future residents. Looking to bring a small cat or dog to your new home? Not a problem at all, as every SLS Community is pet friendly!

Mesa Arizona

Youngtown, AZ

This town’s fascinating history quickly made it a favorite for retirees. Incredibly enough, Youngtown is actually the oldest retirement community in the U.S. In the mid-1950’s, developers began on an ambitious project: create the country’s first-ever planned community solely for retirees. The name Youngtown was, of course, ironically planned. Measuring just over a mile in total area, Youngtown boasts a small population, filled with the best retirement communities in the entire country. From November through April, the weather is nearly perfect, with average temperatures ranging from 76-86 degrees.

Retirement Community In Youngtown

There isn’t a more appropriately named setting for this lively community than Youngtown! Monthly rent at Ventana Winds includes three well balanced meals plus snacks, 24-hour staff, and a daily tidying of your apartment. The offerings don’t end there! Personal laundry is done weekly, transportation is provided for appointments or shopping, a 24/7 emergency call system is in place, as well as a full slate of exciting activities. Check out all of Ventana Winds’ offerings today!

Peoria, AZ

Peoria is located northeast of Phoenix and Glendale. Due to a plethora of available land, Peoria is home to many top-notch retirement communities. Enjoy scenic views daily, and check out the Salt River which flows right through the city. Peoria’s crime rate is below the national average and the climate is ideal; topping out at 94 degrees in the month of July. Money Magazine recently named Peoria as one of the top 100 places to live.

Retirement Community In Peoria

Offering assisted, independent and memory care services, Desert Winds is a top-notch community in the valley. Desert Winds offers three types of floor plans for assisted living residents. Whether a two-bedroom, two-bath or one-bedroom, one-bath is what you desire, Desert Winds has a plan for you. Studio apartments are available as well. All of these floor plans can be toured virtually on Desert Winds’ official website. All apartments come fully equipped with individual heat and AC units, a refrigerator, microwave, window treatments and more.

Surprise, AZ

With a population of more than 135,000, Surprise continues to grow each year. Featuring low humidity and tons of sunshine, it’s no wonder why so many retirees are flocking to Surprise. Enjoy a much lower cost of living here, when compared to both Scottsdale and Phoenix. Sports lovers will know how special this place is. Whether you want to hit the links or catch a baseball spring training game, Surprise is the spot for you!

Retirement Community In Surprise

If you’ve lived in Surprise your entire life and want to stay close to friends and family, then Chaparral Winds is the assisted living facility for you! As Chaparral Winds’ website states, this is a community designed to keep a relaxing vibe going throughout the day. A pool and hot tub combined with a beautiful dining area make this one of the premier communities in all of Arizona. Great shopping, golf courses, restaurants and medical facilities are all located within a few miles, which is a bonus for visiting family members.

Retirement In Arizona

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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