Category Archives: Senior Living

As Abraham Lincoln famously said, “It’s not the years in life that count – it’s the life in the years.” Here are some of the best Alzheimer’s support quotes.

Positive And Emotional Alzheimer’s Quotes

1. “Never let the things you cannot do prevent you from doing the things you can.” – John Wooden

2. “The most precious memories are the ones we hold in our hearts.” – Sharon Griffin

3. “If you want to avoid Alzheimer’s disease, sleep eight hours a night.” – Deepak Chopra

4. “Alzheimer’s doesn’t erase the person you were; it just makes it harder to remember.” – Gerald Everette

5. “The best way to remember someone with Alzheimer’s is to never forget them.” – Rianne Lee

6. “Alzheimer’s may take away the past, but it can never touch the love that remains.” – Miranda Blake

7. “I have Alzheimer’s, but it doesn’t have my spirit.” – Vernice Johnson

8. “In the end, you tried and you cared and sometimes that is enough.” – Anthea Yang

9. “Caregiving is a constant learning experience.” – Vivian Frazier

10. “Be helpful. When you see someone without a smile, give them yours.” – Zig Ziglar

11. “Even though helpful medication exists, there’s still no cure and we have to keep fighting to find one.” – Sally Noelle

12. “Dementia does not rob someone of their dignity. It’s our reaction to them that does.” – Teepa Snow

13. “They may not be able to remember who we are, but they feel us just the same.” – Amanda Dillon

14. “Aging is not lost youth, but a new stage of opportunity and strength.” – Betty Friedan

15. “You have not lived today until you have done something for someone who can never repay you.” – John Bunyan

16. “Though those with Alzheimer’s may forget us, we as a society must remember them.” – Scott Kirshenbaum

17. “The closest thing to being cared for is to care for someone else.” – Carson McCullers

18. “It’s not how much you do, but how much love you put in the doing.” – Mother Teresa

19. “The capacity to care is the thing which gives life its deepest significance.” – Pablo Casals

20. “When someone you love becomes a memory, that memory becomes a treasure.” – Ollie Grace Moore

21. “Alzheimer’s is like a thief in the night, stealing memories and dreams one by one.” – Shane Boler

22. “You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

23. “Hope is being able to see there is light despite all of the darkness.” – Desmond Tutu

24. “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” – Aesop

25. “The best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person.” – Andy Rooney

26. “One person caring for another represents life’s greatest value.” – Jim Rohn

27. “Doctors diagnose, nurses heal and caregivers make sense of it all.” – Brett H. Lewis

28. “The measure of life isn’t its duration, but its donation.” – Peter Marshall

29. “At best we will be able to halt the disease. Prevention will be much more important.” – Michel Goedert

30. “Care is a state in which something does matter; it is the source of human tenderness.” – Rollo May

31. “Never give up hope. If you do, you’ll be dead already.” – Peggi Spears

32. “We have to start teaching ourselves to not be afraid.” – William Faulkner

33. “There’s just so much scientifically that we don’t know, and we can know.” – Miles D. White

34. “The soul of a person with Alzheimer’s may forget, but their spirit never will.” – Grace Noyes

35. “People with Alzheimer’s deserve to be seen, so that we can find a cure.” – Julianne Moore

36. “Alzheimer’s caregivers are heroes.” – Leeza Gibbons

37. “Struggle is a sign that you’re alive, that you’re human, and that you’re trying.” – Zander Blancher

38. “We do not have to be defined by our illness. We are much more than our symptoms.” – Dr. Brent Shaefer

39. “Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it.” – Charles R. Swindoll

40. “When you have exhausted all possibilities, remember this: you haven’t.” – Thomas Edison

More Aging Quotes:

Aging Gracefully

Aging Quotes

Support Quotes

Alzheimers Disease Quotes

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.

Medicare.gov states that Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) will cover power-operated vehicles, which includes scooters and manual wheelchairs, when prescribed for at-home use by a doctor. However, you must meet face-to-face with a doctor or other treating provider and receive a prescription before Medicare will pay for the wheelchair.

Original Medicare Costs

If your supplier accepts the assignment, you will likely be responsible for paying 20% of the Medicare-Approved Amount. The Part B deductible applies here, as Medicare will pay for different types of durable medical equipment (DME) in some different ways.

For example, buying or renting the equipment will undoubtedly impact how much coverage will be provided by Medicare. Medicare only covers medical equipment if both your doctor and medical supplier are currently enrolled in Medicare. Doctors and suppliers must always meet strict standards in order to stay enrolled in this program. No coverage will be provided if neither are currently enrolled.

Always make sure to know ahead of time if your doctor and supplier are enrolled in Medicare. Participating suppliers must meet assignment, which means they can only charge a patient for coinsurance and the Part B deductible for the exact amount that’s been approved by Medicare. This essentially means there is no limit on what suppliers are able to charge a patient when they are not enrolled in Medicare.

Medicare Approvals And Denials

In September of 2018, it was ruled that all patients must receive “prior authorization” for different kinds of power wheelchairs. Currently, there are 40 types of wheelchairs that require this approval – check out the full list right here. Prior authorization is needed before Medicare will approve covering the cost of the wheelchair.

DME suppliers need to do the following before receiving approval:

• Request prior authorization ahead of time.
• Submit said request and other required documentation to Medicare.

The patient generally does not have to do anything at this point of the process. The supplier is responsible for all the work detailed above. The specific DME supplier will need to send the request for authorization, including all documentation to Medicare on the patient’s behalf. Medicare will then review the request to ensure the patient is eligible for coverage.

Ultimately, coverage could be denied due to the following reasons:

• Medicare says that you do not need a power wheelchair.
• Medicare did not receive sufficient documentation.

Average Wheelchair Costs

Manual, transport, and electric are the three main types of wheelchairs. Costs for these wheelchairs can range all the way from $90-$9,000, depending on the type. Prices vary based on model, with the transport being the least expensive version.

Here are some average costs associated with wheelchairs today:

• Average Transport Wheelchair Cost: $955.
• Average Manual Wheelchair Cost: $1,400.
• Average Electric Wheelchair Cost: $3,750.

*Please note these are cost estimates according to Braunability. 

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.

Use this step-by-step guide to safely build a wheelchair ramp for your loved one.

How To Plan Your Wheelchair Ramp

Start out with a list of tools/equipment you’ll need for this project. Gather the following things:

• Hammer.
• Drill.
• Concrete anchor screws.
• Wood glue.
• Cutting tools like a hand saw, table saw, circular saw, or jigsaw.
• Measuring tape and level.
• Plywood or deck material for the ramp and landing.
• Various lengths of screws.
• Carriage bolts.
• Lumber for posts, joists, and edges.

Steps To Building A Wheelchair Ramp

Before starting any project, check the ADA recommendations and requirements for wheelchair ramps. Next, carefully follow these steps to create your DIY ramp.

Step 1. Completely Clear The Area

• DO NOT overlook this very important first step toward building a ramp.
• Clear the area entirely.
• Remove any debris or obstacles that could obstruct the DIY building process.
• Ensure the ground is level at this time.
• Pour the concrete foundation for the ramp.

Step 2. Build Your Frame

• Construct a sturdy frame from the treated lumber you purchased for the project.
• This frame will serve as the foundation of the ramp’s surface.
• Make sure your frame is level and anchored securely to the ground using anchor footings.
• Cut wood joists (2x6s are the recommended length) of your DIY ramp.
• You must cut an angle along the bottom of the joists at the point where they will rest on the ground.
• Secure them to the existing threshold using either brackets or sturdy screws.
• You’ll have to construct posts in order to secure the ramp and any side railings by digging post holes or connecting the railings to the ramp for additional stability.
• Make sure the posts are tall enough to support railings that are at least 34 inches above the surface of the ramp.
• Always check your local codes for stability and safety regulations.
• Use carriage bolts to attach posts to support joists and add cross-bracing, if desired.

Step 3. Install Plywood

• Attach sturdy plywood to the frame’s top to create the surface of the ramp.
• Ensure the plywood is fastened securely and level to provide as smooth a ride as possible.
• Use your circular saw to cut sheets of 3/4-inch plywood for the ramp’s full length.
• Glue and screw the sheets together for each segment of the ramp.
• Place your plywood atop the ramp’s base and secure this using screws.

Step 4. Add Handrails

• You may need to install handrails along the sides of the ramp depending on local building codes.
• Top the side posts with your desired material.
• You will also want to create a guardrail or bumper along the ramp’s bottom edge.

Step 5. Create Landings

• Incorporate landing platforms at both the top and bottom of the ramp and at any other point where the ramp changes directions.
• These platforms offer a resting area, which makes it easier to navigate turns on a wheelchair.
• Cut sheets of 3/4-inch plywood into five-foot lengths to serve as landings on the top and bottom.
• These must be at least as wide as your ramp and at least 60 inches long, allowing space for wheelchairs to completely turn around.

Step 6. Add Non-Slip Surface

• Once the construction of the ramp has been completed, perform a thorough inspection to see if there are any loose screws or potential issues.
• Once the ramp’s surface is even, you can add anti-slip tape or a thin rubber layer.
• Make any necessary adjustments to ensure user safety at all times.

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.

A senior’s decision to sell their home can be a complicated one with many complex factors. We’ve compiled a list of 5 considerations for every senior thinking about selling their home.

Consideration 1. What Is The Cost Of Staying At Home?

While you may have already completely paid off your home, the cost of staying there may be a bit higher than expected. There are many big costs that come with maintaining your home, such as replacing an AC unit or adding a new roof. Older homes require more maintenance needs, and the longer you live in the home, the greater the expenses become.

Another important cost factor to be mindful of is property taxes. Even if you do not have a mortgage payment, you will continue to pay these taxes while owning your home. There are a few recurring costs to consider, including the following:

• Utilities
• Heating
• Cooling
• Lawn maintenance
• Internet
• Trash pickup
• And more!

Consideration 2. Can You Move Around Your Home Safely?

At-home falls are one of leading causes of injury among senior citizens. At a certain point, it will be ideal to make some safety updates to your home. Many dangers can exist in the home like basement stairs, porch steps, and other obstacles that make it hard to navigate.

Aging adults who have lost a bit of balance may be at a higher risk of tripping and falling at home. Safety needs to be the top concern for every senior struggling to decide between selling their home or staying put.

Consideration 3. What Is The Current Housing Market?

Before listing your home, it’s wise to take into account what your current housing market looks like. A hot housing market could lead to a great return on your investment. A cold market, however, is not an ideal time to list your home.

If you are thinking of putting your house on the market, it’s always a good idea to speak with a local realtor who can discuss your options.

Consideration 4. Can You Handle All Home Maintenance Needs?

A lot of homeowners can simply pick up a phone and call a service to take care of maintenance projects like mowing the lawn. This is not always an affordable option, though.

Aging poses a serious threat to homeowners wishing to take care of maintenance needs themselves. Maintaining a house involves significant tasks like landscaping and gutter cleaning. Homes undoubtedly become harder to maintain as the years go on.

Consideration 5. Could You Benefit From Assisted Living Care?

The time may be right for you to enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle. Assisted living communities are great for seniors looking for less stress and household chores.

These communities provide personalized care to seniors in a residential setting. Here is a quick look at services provided by most assisted living communities:

• Housekeeping
• Meals
• Medication needs
• Laundry
• Transportation
• And more!

Why Should You Sell Your Home And Move Into A Senior Living Community?

Let’s take a look at a few of the benefits a senior living community can provide for senior citizens.

Lower Stress Levels For Your Loved One

Assisted living helps lover stress levels in your loved one and improves the quality of life for all involved. Seniors can enjoy their independence while receiving the care and help they require while the loved ones families no longer have concerns about fulfilling their loved one’s needs.

One benefit to assisted living surroundings is that they permit seniors who may have physical issues or the early onset of Alzheimer’s or dementia to live a moderately independent way of life. The facility will usually have on-site medical care, but it will not be there 24/7. An assisted living facility will offer a care level that is suitable for seniors who do not need full-time care, but may require assistance with their meds, eating or food preparation, and other day to day activities.

Contentment And Your Loved Ones Protection

Members of the family will no longer will be concerned about their loved one getting used, falling down, getting lost because of wandering, not eating a healthy diet or taking the incorrect medication. The living facility will take every means they have to ensure your loved ones are continually safe and protected.

The Social Life Of Your Loved One

It’s not that surprising for seniors to start to become lonely as they get up in age. Loneliness in seniors may lead to a lot of complications, ranging from poor health or bouts of depression, problems being active and more.

In the assisted living facility, the residents belong to a part of a supportive, loving, and caring community. Your loved one will surrounded by seniors their own age and have numerous opportunities to socialize and take joy in the company of other seniors.

Increased Activity For Your Loved One

It’s very important that we stay active as we age. Assisted living seniors are offered a bunch of indoor activities as well as outdoor activities from strolling in the courtyard, to gardening, or picnics. Some assisted living communities will offer their residents transportation, so they can go on excursions, go to the corner market or visit the doctor’s office.

Assistance In Day-to-Day Duties

It’s very essential for seniors to have their independence, but also have the assistance they need. Assisted living communities provide their residents with help, only when needed, with daily living undertakings, such as dressing, preparing meals and eating or laundry duties.

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.