Category: General

March is MS Awareness Month—a time to focus on the specialized care needed for those living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and the support systems that help them maintain dignity and comfort. MS is an unpredictable, progressive disease that affects the central nervous system, disrupting movement, speech, and daily function. While there is no cure, compassionate, individualized care can make all the difference in improving quality of life at every stage.

As MS progresses, mobility may decline, cognitive challenges may increase, and daily care needs often become more complex. The level of care required depends on how the disease impacts each person, but at some point, many individuals will need full-time support. Ensuring that they receive compassionate, skilled care is essential to their comfort, safety, and overall well-being.

Key Considerations for Advanced MS Care

• Pain & Symptom Management – Medications, physical therapy, and assistive devices can help ease discomfort and maintain function for as long as possible.
• Personalized Daily Care – Assistance with bathing, dressing, and mobility ensures residents maintain dignity and comfort in their daily routine.
• Nutrition & Swallowing Support – MS can affect swallowing (dysphagia), so food textures may need to be adjusted, and mealtime supervision is often necessary to reduce the risk of choking.
• Preventing Pressure Sores – Limited mobility can increase the risk of bedsores, so repositioning, proper bedding, and skin care become essential.
• Emotional & Cognitive Support – MS can lead to anxiety, depression, and mood swings. Providing consistent social engagement and emotional reassurance is crucial.
• End-of-Life Planning – In later stages, hospice or palliative care may be needed to focus on comfort and dignity rather than aggressive treatments.

Interesting Fact: MS is not considered a fatal disease, but complications from severe MS—such as infections, pneumonia, or falls—can impact life expectancy. That’s why consistent, high-quality care is so important.

How Geneva Suites Supports Residents with MS

At The Geneva Suites, we believe that everyone deserves personalized care that respects their unique needs, preferences, and abilities. Our high staff-to-resident ratio ensures that residents with MS receive the time, attention, and support they need—whether it’s assistance with daily tasks, symptom management, or simply spending time together.

We offer:

• Care Designed Around Each Resident – No two people experience MS the same way, so we adapt care plans to fit individual needs.
• Occupational Therapy Support – Our in-house Occupational Therapist works with residents to maintain mobility, independence, and comfort as long as possible.
• Chef-Prepared Meals – We provide nutritious, balanced meals that accommodate dietary needs, ensuring proper nutrition while making dining an enjoyable experience.
• Life Enrichment & Social Engagement – Our Life Enrichment Coordinator helps residents stay engaged, providing activities that bring joy, encourage social connection, and support emotional well-being.

We know that MS is a long and difficult journey, but we are committed to ensuring that every resident feels safe, valued, and supported every step of the way.

Prioritizing Comfort and Quality of Life

MS is not just a physical disease—it impacts every aspect of life. And while there is no cure, the right care can make all the difference in helping those with MS live as comfortably and independently as possible.

This MS Awareness Month, let’s take time to recognize the needs of those living with MS and ensure they have access to compassionate, high-quality care at every stage.

If you or a loved one is navigating MS care and need support, we’re here to help. Contact us to learn more about The Geneva Suites protocols for our residents providing personalized, dignified care for those living with advanced MS.

March is MS Awareness Month—a time to recognize the challenges faced by those living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and to support the families, caregivers, and medical professionals who help them navigate this disease. MS is an unpredictable, often disabling condition that affects the central nervous system, disrupting communication between the brain and the rest of the body.

Approximately 1 million people in the United States live with MS, and every case looks different. Some individuals experience mild symptoms and go years without significant progression, while others face rapid changes that require increased levels of care. Because MS is a chronic, progressive disease, understanding its early signs and knowing what kind of support is needed in later stages is essential for ensuring dignity, comfort, and quality of life.

Recognizing the Early Signs of MS

MS symptoms often begin subtly and may be mistaken for other conditions, which can make early diagnosis difficult. While the disease affects each person differently, some of the most common early warning signs include:

• Vision Problems – Blurred or double vision, sudden loss of sight in one eye, or pain with eye movement.
• Numbness & Tingling – A sensation of “pins and needles” in the arms, legs, or face, often on one side of the body.
• Fatigue & Weakness – Chronic exhaustion that doesn’t improve with rest, often one of the earliest and most common symptoms.
• Balance & Coordination Issues – Difficulty walking, frequent tripping, dizziness, or sudden muscle weakness.
• Cognitive Changes – Trouble with memory, difficulty concentrating, or slower problem-solving skills.
• Muscle Spasms & Stiffness – Painful muscle cramps, most often in the legs, that can make movement difficult.

Early intervention can make a difference in managing MS symptoms, slowing progression, and improving long-term quality of life. If you or a loved one are experiencing these symptoms, seeking a neurological evaluation is the first step.

Interesting Fact: MS is more common in women than men—nearly three times as many women are diagnosed with MS compared to men. Scientists are still researching why.

Eating heart-healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor! This Honey Orange Soy Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health by reducing inflammation and promoting good cholesterol levels. The natural sweetness of honey and fresh citrus pairs perfectly with a touch of savory soy sauce, creating a delicious, well-balanced dish. Chef Leslie prioritizes fresh, nutrient-rich ingredients like this to keep our residents nourished and thriving. Enjoy this simple, heart-friendly recipe that’s as good for you as it is delicious!

Honey Orange Soy Salmon with Brown Rice and Broccoli

Ingredients

1 tablespoon honey

2 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup orange juice

2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos

12 ounces salmon, cut into 3- to 4-ounce fillets of equal size

Oil for the pan -1 tbsp or pan spray can be substituted

Fresh parsley and orange zest for garnish

Brown Rice and Steamed Broccoli per person

Directions

Combine honey, garlic, orange juice, and soy/coconut aminos until combined.

Heat enough oil to just cover the bottom of your skillet until hot.

Season the salmon with salt and pepper, and cook the salmon skin side down for approximately 5 minutes.

Flip the salmon and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes.

Flip salmon so that it is skin-side down and then pour the sauce into the pan, allowing it to reduce for 2 minutes.

Glaze the tops of the salmon fillets with the sauce and then remove from heat.

Garnish with fresh parsley and orange zest, if desired. Serve with brown rice and Broccoli.

 

Occupational Therapy (OT) Helps Seniors Stay Independent and Engaged

As we get older, simple daily tasks—getting dressed, making a meal, or walking safely—can become more challenging. Whether due to arthritis, a recent fall, or recovery from a stroke, these changes can feel frustrating and overwhelming. But with the right support, seniors can maintain their independence and continue doing the things they love.  Some ways OT makes a difference are:

Regaining Independence

Many seniors want to do things for themselves but may struggle with daily tasks. OT helps them find new ways to manage self-care, cook, or move around safely while respecting their independence.

A senior recovering from a stroke may learn how to dress using one hand or safely transfer from a chair without help with the assistance of occupational therapy.

Preventing Falls and Injuries

Falls are a major concern as we age. OT helps improve balance, recommend mobility aids, and modify the environment to reduce risks.

A Occupational Therapist may suggest grab bars, better lighting, or small adjustments to their home to keep them safe.

Managing Chronic Conditions

For those living with arthritis, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis, or stroke recovery, OT provides personalized strategies to manage pain, improve mobility, and make daily tasks easier.

Someone with arthritis may struggle to grip a spoon, so OT introduces ergonomic utensils and hand exercises to help them eat comfortably.

Supporting Memory and Cognition

OT isn’t just about physical ability—it also helps keep the mind sharp. Memory activities, structured routines, and cognitive exercises can support seniors with early dementia or memory loss.

A senior with mild dementia may benefit from visual reminders and structured routines to help them navigate their day with confidence.

Encouraging Meaningful Activities

Losing independence can sometimes lead to frustration or sadness. OT helps residents find joy and purpose in daily life, whether through gardening, music, art, or social activities.

A spouse who loves to bake but struggles with fine motor skills may work with OT to adapt kitchen tools so they can continue their favorite hobby.

How The Geneva Suites Supports Residents with OT

At The Geneva Suites, our high staff-to-resident ratio allows us to provide personalized therapy and hands-on support. Our Occupational Therapist works closely with residents, helping them stay active, independent, and engaged in meaningful activities.

We focus on:

• Tailored therapy plans based on each resident’s needs
• One-on-one sessions with our OT to improve mobility, strength, and coordination
• Practical strategies for self-care, safety, and memory support
• Collaboration with caregivers and families to ensure ongoing success
• Daily activities designed to keep residents engaged and thriving

Helping Seniors Live Life on Their Terms

Aging may bring challenges, but with the right support, seniors can continue living with confidence and purpose. Occupational Therapy helps make everyday life easier, safer, and more enjoyable—and at The Geneva Suites, we are committed to making sure each resident receives the care and encouragement they need.

If you’d like to learn more about how we incorporate OT into daily life for our residents, we’d love to connect. Let’s talk about how we can help your loved one stay active, engaged, and independent.

Focusing on Heart Health Month, it is a great time to focus on simple ways to protect your heart—starting with reducing stress and making mindful choices. At The Geneva Suites, we know that heart health isn’t just about diet and exercise—it’s also about managing daily stress, getting quality rest, and being mindful of habits like smoking and drinking that can strain your heart.

The best news? Small lifestyle changes can lead to big improvements in heart health. Let’s explore how reducing stress, reducing some bad habits, and creating healthy daily routine can keep your heart strong.

Prioritizing Rest & Reducing Harmful Habits for a Stronger Heart

Manage Stress & Sleep Well

Stress isn’t just a mental burden—it has a direct impact on heart health. When we experience long-term stress, our body releases hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can increase blood pressure, raise heart rate, and contribute to inflammation. Over time, chronic stress can lead to high blood pressure, irregular heart rhythms, and a higher risk of heart disease.

That’s why it’s essential to find ways to unwind and allow your heart to rest. Even small daily habits can make a difference. Here are some simple ways to reduce stress and promote relaxation:

✔ Deep Breathing & Meditation – Just a few minutes of slow, mindful breathing can lower blood pressure and promote relaxation. Techniques like box breathing (inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, exhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, and repeat) can help calm the nervous system.

✔ Engaging in Hobbies – Doing something enjoyable, whether it’s crafting, gardening, playing music, or puzzles, helps the mind focus on something positive and reduces stress levels.

✔ Listening to Music or Reading – Music therapy has been shown to lower blood pressure and heart rate, while reading can provide a sense of calm and escape.

✔ Creating a Restful Nighttime Routine – Lack of sleep increases heart strain and can contribute to high blood pressure. Sticking to a regular bedtime, avoiding screens before bed, and creating a peaceful environment helps support a healthy heart and better overall well-being.

At The Geneva Suites, we understand the importance of stress management and quality sleep in maintaining heart health. Our residents enjoy personalized schedules, a peaceful home-like environment, and structured routines that promote relaxation and restful sleep.

Cut Back on Smoking & Excess Alcohol

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are two of the biggest preventable risk factors for heart disease. Both contribute to high blood pressure, increased heart rate, reduced oxygen levels, and hardened arteries—putting a heavy strain on the cardiovascular system.

Why Smoking is Harmful to Your Heart:

•Reduces oxygen flow, forcing the heart to work harder.

•Increases blood pressure and causes plaque buildup in the arteries, leading to heart disease.

•Raises the risk of stroke and heart attack.

How Alcohol Affects Heart Health:

•Excessive drinking can raise blood pressure and cause irregular heart rhythms.

•Alcohol is high in empty calories, which can contribute to weight gain and impact overall health.

•Heavy drinking may weaken the heart muscle, making it harder for the heart to pump blood efficiently.

If quitting smoking or cutting back on alcohol is a challenge, seeking support from a doctor, counselor, or support group can be a helpful first step. Even small reductions can lead to big improvements in heart health over time.

At The Geneva Suites, we encourage a holistic approach to heart health, focusing on healthy habits, relaxation, and providing an environment that supports well-being and longevity. Our goal is to help residents feel their best, reduce stress, and live heart-healthy lives with comfort and ease.

February is National Heart Health Month, a great reminder to take care of the organ that keeps us going—our heart! At The Geneva Suites, we know that heart health isn’t just about medical care; it’s about living well, eating well, and staying active in a way that feels good.

The best part? Small, simple changes can make a big difference in keeping your heart strong and your body feeling great. Let’s talk about why heart health matters, what you can do to support it, and a few easy ways to make your favorite meals more heart-friendly!

Why Does Heart Health Matter?

Your heart works 24/7, pumping blood, oxygen, and nutrients to every part of your body. When your heart is healthy, you have more energy, think more clearly, and feel better overall. But when it’s under stress—whether from high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or too much stress—it can lead to serious health issues like heart disease or stroke.

The good news? You have the power to protect your heart with a few simple daily habits.

Simple Steps to a Healthier Heart

Stay Active in a Way That Feels Good

Exercise doesn’t have to mean running miles or lifting heavy weights. Simple movement every day can help keep your heart in great shape.

• Take a short walk
• Stretch or do chair yoga
• Dance to your favorite song
• Try light resistance exercises

At Geneva Suites, our Occupational Therapist (OT) helps residents stay active in a way that works for them. Whether it’s a gentle stretching routine, walking assistance, or strengthening exercises, we make movement accessible and enjoyable.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water helps your heart pump blood more efficiently and prevents dehydration, which can lead to fatigue and dizziness. Try to drink 6–8 glasses of water a day, and choose water over sugary drinks when possible.

Taking care of your heart doesn’t have to be complicated—staying active and staying hydrated are two of the great and most effective ways to support heart health.

At The Geneva Suites, we make heart health a priority every day by encouraging engaging activities, personalized movement, and chef-prepared, nutritious meals. Let’s take small steps today for a stronger, healthier tomorrow!

Choosing the right care for a loved one can be a daunting task, especially when trying to navigate the differences between Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs) and Assisted Living Facilities (ALFs). While they’re often grouped together, these two options serve distinct purposes and cater to different needs.

Understanding what sets them apart is key to finding the right fit—one that not only meets your loved one’s care needs but also respects their dignity and supports their independence.

Let’s break it down together—what each option offers, who it’s designed for, and how to make the best decision for your family.

The Transition to a Skilled Nursing Facility

While many seniors can live happily and safely in ALFs, there are situations where a higher level of care may become necessary. Here are some signs it might be time to transition to a SNF:

• Frequent Medical Crises: Repeated ER visits or worsening chronic conditions that require daily medical intervention.
• Advanced Health Needs: Complex treatments like wound care, respiratory therapy, or IV medications.
• Post-Surgery Recovery: Short-term stays for rehabilitation following surgery or serious illness.

The transition to an SNF is often temporary, such as for recovery, but it’s an important option for seniors who require more intensive care.

How Does Hospice Fit In?

Hospice care is a wonderful complement to both SNFs and ALFs, focusing on comfort and quality of life for individuals with terminal illnesses. In an SNF, hospice works alongside the medical team to manage advanced symptoms. In an ALF, hospice can provide extra support in a familiar, home-like setting.

Regardless of the location, hospice services bring peace of mind to families and ensure residents are cared for with dignity and compassion during their final stage of life.

How to Choose the Right Setting

Choosing between a SNF and an ALF starts with understanding your loved one’s specific needs. Ask yourself:

• Do they need daily medical care or advanced treatments?
• Would they benefit from a more social, home-like environment?
• Are their care needs stable, or are they likely to change in the near future?

If your loved one doesn’t require frequent medical interventions, an ALF may be the perfect choice. It allows them to maintain their independence while enjoying the support of a caring community.

Making Senior Care Work for Your Family

Here’s the bottom line: Finding the right care setting doesn’t have to be confusing or overwhelming. SNFs and ALFs each serve an important role, but the vast majority of seniors can receive all the support they need in an ALF.

At Geneva Suites, we specialize in Residential Assisted Living, which takes the ALF concept one step further. Our smaller, home-like settings provide highly personalized care, where residents truly feel at home.

If you’re wondering what type of care is best for your loved one, we’re here to help. Let’s have a conversation about their needs and how we can support your family in making the best choice.

Your loved one deserves care that feels like home. Let’s find the right fit together.

 

When it’s time to find the right care for a loved one, the options can feel overwhelming. Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs) and Assisted Living Facilities (ALFs) often get grouped together, but they’re actually very different. Understanding these differences is essential to choosing a setting that meets your loved one’s needs while also honoring their dignity and independence.

Let’s walk through it together—what makes each option unique, who they’re best suited for, and how to know which choice is right for your family.

The Role of RNs: What Sets SNFs and ALFs Apart

One of the biggest distinctions between SNFs and ALFs lies in the role of registered nurses (RNs):

• In Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs): An RN is required to be on-site 24/7. This makes SNFs ideal for individuals with complex medical needs—those who require constant monitoring, advanced treatments, or rehabilitation services. SNFs are more like a hospital setting with nurses, therapists, and physicians working together to provide clinical care.
• In Assisted Living Facilities (ALFs): An RN must be available by phone 24/7 but does not need to be on-site around the clock. ALFs are designed for residents who may need assistance with daily tasks, like dressing or taking medications, but don’t require ongoing medical interventions. Instead, unlicensed care staff support residents with non-medical needs, creating a more home-like, relaxed environment.

This key difference means that most residents in ALFs don’t require the constant presence of an RN. Instead, they thrive in a setting that prioritizes independence, socialization, and personalized care.

What Tasks Are RNs Responsible for in SNFs that are not done in ALFs?

In SNFs, RNs handle medical responsibilities that cannot be delegated to unlicensed care staff, such as:

1. Evaluating Residents’ Health: Regularly assessing and adjusting care plans based on medical needs.  If care plans need to be adjusted multiple times during a 24–48-hour time frame a SNF is the most appropriate setting.
2. Supervising Medical Tasks: Overseeing treatments like wound care, IV therapy, and complex medication regimens.  If a resident must have more than a simple dressing change or they must have the availability to have emergent medications injected on an as needed basis then a SNF is correct setting.
3. Developing Teaching Plans: Educating residents and families about managing health conditions.  If the resident and or family plans to move them back to their own home setting and skills are needed to be taught like how to insert a straight catheter or how to change an ostomy bag, this education piece so that the resident can then be independent in these cares must be taught by an RN.

These responsibilities highlight why SNFs are the right choice for residents who need high-level, medical-focused care.  RNs are ultimately accountable for the safety and effectiveness of care in SNFs.  However, most seniors don’t need this high level of care, making ALFs a better fit for their day-to-day needs.

Who Thrives in Assisted Living?

ALFs cater to residents who need help with everyday tasks but don’t require constant medical assessment and adjustment to the care plan.  These are individuals who:

• May need reminders to take medications or assistance with bathing, dressing, or mobility.
• Thrive in a home-like setting where they can enjoy social activities, shared meals, and a sense of community.
• Value their independence but appreciate having caregivers nearby for support when needed.

For example, a senior who feels isolated at home but struggles with cooking and managing medications would likely flourish in an ALF. They would gain the support they need without sacrificing their autonomy.

“Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” – Theodore Roosevelt

When faced with the reality of finding care for a loved one, these words resonate deeply. Making the decision to explore assisted living is not about giving up—it’s about doing your best with the resources and love you have in the moment.

The questions can feel endless. What do they need? Are we doing the right thing? Will this bring peace or cause more worry? It’s an emotional, deeply personal journey, and separating love from guilt can seem impossible.

But here’s the truth: taking that first step—acknowledging that more care is needed—is one of the most loving actions you can take. It’s a way of saying, I see you. I want what’s best for you. While the road ahead may be uncertain, there are clear and compassionate steps to guide you through this transition.

This process isn’t about doing it alone. It’s about leaning on resources, involving trusted voices, and honoring your loved one’s dignity. Let’s walk through it together, step by step, with clarity and compassion leading the way.

How to Approach the Decision with Clarity and Compassion

So, where do you start? How do you navigate this deeply personal decision without being consumed by guilt or doubt? Here’s a framework to guide you:

1. Assess the Situation. Take a step back and evaluate your loved one’s physical, emotional, and social needs. Are they safe at home? Are they isolated or struggling to manage daily tasks? Writing these observations down can help you see the situation more clearly.
2. Get Input from Trusted Professionals. Speak with doctors, geriatric specialists, or care advisors. They can provide an objective perspective and offer insights into what level of care may be best for your loved one.
3. Involve Your Loved One in the Conversation. When possible, include your loved one in discussions about their future. They may resist at first, but involving them helps preserve their dignity and sense of control.
4. Tour Facilities Together. Seeing an assisted living community in person can ease fears and debunk myths about what it’s like. A smaller, residential option might feel more personal and comforting.
5. Reframe the Decision. Instead of focusing on what’s being “lost,” think about what’s being gained: safety, companionship, professional care, and a chance to enjoy your role as a family member rather than a caregiver.

Finding Peace in the Hardest Decisions

No one makes this choice lightly. It’s a decision born out of love, even if it feels like the hardest thing you’ve ever done. Assisted living doesn’t mean you’re giving up on your loved one—it means you’re ensuring they have the care they need while also reclaiming balance for your family.

This is your chance to rewrite the story. Instead of struggling through another year of exhaustion, you can create a new chapter—one where your loved one is supported, you’re at peace, and your time together is meaningful.

If you’re considering this decision and don’t know where to start, you’re not alone. Reach out, ask questions, and explore your options. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it—for them and for you.  Make this the year where love leads the way, and hard decisions pave the path to something better. You’ve got this!

“80% of families delay making care decisions for their loved ones because they feel overwhelmed and unsure where to start.” That’s a staggering statistic from the National Council on Aging, and it’s a reality many families face. Deciding to place a loved one in assisted living isn’t just hard—it’s heart-wrenching. The weight of the decision can feel crushing, tangled with emotions like guilt, sadness, and even relief.

But here’s the truth: you’re not alone in this journey. Families across the country wrestle with the same questions: Is it too soon? Are we doing the right thing? Will they feel abandoned? These concerns are deeply human, and they’re valid.

The decision often doesn’t happen all at once. It builds slowly—after yet another missed medication, a trip to the ER after a fall, or a weary caregiver feeling burned out. The signs accumulate, and the need for a change becomes undeniable. But even then, the choice can feel impossible.

So why is this so hard?

It’s not just about logistics. It’s emotional.

You’re not just choosing a place for your loved one to live; you’re acknowledging that they need more support than you can provide. That realization alone is enough to stop some families in their tracks.

You may also be grappling with cultural or generational expectations. Perhaps your family values caregiving at home, or your loved one once expressed that they’d never want to leave their house. Balancing those sentiments with what’s best for their safety and quality of life can feel impossible.

The Ripple Effect of Delaying the Decision

Delaying the decision doesn’t just impact your loved one—it impacts you and the rest of your family. Overwhelm becomes the new normal, resentment can quietly creep in, and exhaustion takes a toll on caregivers.

Here’s what happens when families wait too long:

• Burnout increases: Caregivers may feel so stretched that their own health begins to decline.
• Crisis decisions: Waiting until there’s a medical emergency often means fewer choices and more stress.
• Missed opportunities for connection: Time spent managing care at home can overshadow moments of simply enjoying your loved one’s company.

The hard truth? Sometimes, holding off on this decision can do more harm than good.

“Sometimes the hardest decisions are the most loving ones.”

Choosing assisted living isn’t giving up—it’s stepping up to ensure your loved one’s safety, comfort, and dignity. Acting with intention allows you to create a new chapter where they’re supported, and you can focus on being their family, not just their caregiver.

Delaying the decision can lead to caregiver burnout and missed opportunities for connection. By starting now, you gain the power of choice and the gift of time.

You’re not alone. Take the first step toward clarity, peace, and a brighter future. You’ve got this.