Category: General

Managing Relationships with Family Members Experiencing Cognitive Decline

The holiday season often brings cherished moments with loved ones, but it can also shine a spotlight on changes in family dynamics, especially when a family member is experiencing cognitive decline. Whether due to Alzheimer’s, dementia, or another condition, these changes can challenge relationships, leading to frustration, sadness, or even a sense of loss. As we step into a new year, it’s a wonderful opportunity to reset, focus on positivity, and strengthen your connection with your loved one.

At The Geneva Suites, our mission to enhance lives is built around our core values: fostering respectful collaboration, education, and safety. These principles can also guide how you approach your relationship with a loved one who is navigating cognitive challenges.

Acknowledge the Changes, But Focus on the Heart of the Relationship

Cognitive decline often changes how we interact with our loved ones. While it’s natural to grieve these changes, it’s also important to remember the core of who they are remains. Shifting your expectations can help you focus on the moments of joy that still exist.

New Year’s Resolution Tip: Commit to finding one positive memory or interaction each day. Maybe it’s a smile they offer, a story they tell (even if it’s not accurate), or the comfort of holding their hand.

Create a Positive Communication Plan

When memory or cognition is impaired, communication often requires patience and creativity. Short, simple sentences, a calm tone, and open body language can make conversations feel less stressful and more meaningful.

For instance, if your loved one becomes confused or agitated, pause, breathe, and respond with reassurance rather than correction. Instead of saying, “That’s not what happened,” you might say, “I love that memory you shared.”

New Year’s Resolution Tip: Resolve to practice active listening and empathetic communication. Keep in mind respectful collaboration—approaching interactions with love and understanding fosters connection.

Welcome the New Year with Kindness and Care

As we welcome 2025, let’s embrace the opportunity to focus on what truly matters in our relationships: love, patience, and meaningful connection. Choosing a supportive care environment for your loved one isn’t a loss—it’s an act of love for both of you. It provides them with the care they need while allowing you to step fully into your role as a family member, supported by a compassionate team dedicated to their safety and well-being.

This year, let’s make it our resolution to approach these relationships with intention and care. By fostering moments of joy, re-establishing healthy boundaries, and prioritizing connection, we can continue to enhance not only their lives but our own as well. Together, we can make 2025 a year of deeper understanding, renewed bonds, and shared happiness.

Warm wishes for an amazing and meaningful New Year!

The holidays may look a little different than they did in years past, and that’s okay. As we embrace the changes that come with time, we also discover new ways to celebrate the love and connection we share with our loved ones. While traditions may shift, the true magic of the season lies in the moments of togetherness, no matter how small they may seem.

This holiday season, let’s focus on the simple things that bring your loved one joy in the present. Whether it’s a quiet moment by the tree, sharing stories from the past, or enjoying a cup of hot cocoa together, these moments hold more meaning than any tradition. By meeting your loved one where they are today, you honor their journey and create new, meaningful memories that will be cherished for years to come.

In these moments, take a moment to reflect on how truly blessed you are to have your loved one by your side. Hug them, hold their hand, and be thankful for the ability to create new memories together. Even if things are different now, the gift of their presence is something to cherish deeply. The joy of sharing the holidays with them, even in new and different ways, is a precious reminder of the love that endures no matter what changes life brings.

As we slow down and savor these moments, remember that the love you share is timeless. The bond you have with your loved one transcends any changes, and it’s this connection that makes the holidays so special. Embrace the beauty of these new traditions, knowing that they are just as meaningful and full of love as those from years ago.

Warm wishes to you and your family for a joyful and meaningful holiday season, filled with love, peace, and connection. Let’s be thankful for every hug, every shared laugh, and every precious moment together.

We know our seniors are naturally cold all of the time, other than keeping your temperature up here are a few ways to keep them feeling warm on the inside too.  It’s so important to create an environment where your loved one feels truly comfortable, especially during the holiday season when the hustle and bustle can sometimes feel overwhelming. For those who may be sensitive to overstimulation, a peaceful, calming atmosphere can make all the difference. By being mindful of their needs and making small adjustments to the way you celebrate, you can help ensure that every moment spent together is not only enjoyable but also filled with warmth and love. The holidays are about making memories, and those memories are best created in an environment where your loved one feels safe, supported, and at ease.

• Keep Gatherings Small: Large, noisy gatherings can be overwhelming, so keep the celebrations intimate and familiar. This will help your loved one feel more at ease and involved.
• Create a Quiet Space: Have a designated area where they can retreat to if things get too loud or overwhelming. A space with soft lighting, comfortable seating, and soothing music can help them recharge when needed.
• Watch for Signs of Fatigue: Pay attention to cues that your loved one might be getting tired or overstimulated. Adjust activities accordingly and give them the space to rest when needed.

Even in group settings, there are simple ways to ensure your loved one feels included:

• Sharing a Toast in Their Honor: Raise a glass in their honor, acknowledging their presence in the celebration.
• Leading a Short Blessing or Toast: If appropriate, invite your loved one to lead a short blessing or holiday toast. This allows them to play an active role in the family tradition and feel valued.

By adapting your holiday traditions and activities to meet your loved one’s needs and preferences, you can help them feel engaged, valued, and part of the celebration, no matter where they are on their journey. This season, focus on creating moments of joy that emphasize connection, comfort, and shared experiences, making this holiday season one to remember for everyone involved.

The holidays are a time to celebrate warmth, joy, and togetherness, regardless of how things may have changed. Keeping in mind the principles of respect, purpose, and engagement, here are a few meaningful ways to create cherished moments with your loved one this season.

Sensory Experiences – Engage the senses and evoke holiday memories through simple, sensory-rich activities:

• Baking Together: While they may no longer be able to handle rolling or mixing, you can still invite them to help with tasks like sprinkling sugar on cookies, choosing cookie cutters, or simply enjoying the smell of freshly baked treats. The aromas, textures, and even the act of baking together can rekindle cherished memories.
• Decorating with Touch: Provide soft holiday decorations such as fabric ornaments or tinsel. Encourage them to explore these items by feeling and arranging them. It’s a great way to make them feel involved without requiring intricate dexterity.
• Holiday Music: Play their favorite holiday tunes. Music has a magical way of lifting spirits and can be particularly comforting, whether it’s just listening or singing along. Even those with advanced cognitive decline can often remember and respond to familiar songs.

Simplified Traditions – The holidays are full of cherished traditions, and even if some of them need to be simplified, they can still bring a lot of joy:

• Crafting Together: Engage in simple crafts like decorating holiday cards or stringing large beads to create garlands. It’s an easy, relaxing activity that encourages creativity without overwhelming them.
• Tree Decorating: Let them help decorate the tree by handing them lightweight ornaments to place on the lower branches. Alternatively, they can participate by offering their opinions on where things should go, helping them feel involved in the family tradition.
• Holiday Lights Drive: For those with limited mobility, a drive through the neighborhood to view holiday lights can be an enchanting experience. It’s a way to enjoy the festive decorations without the physical exertion of walking through a crowded event.

Meaningful Conversations – Engage in simple, meaningful conversations that focus on the topics they love. These can spark positive memories and encourage a sense of connection:

• Ask open-ended questions like, “What’s your favorite holiday memory?” or “What’s the best gift you ever gave or received?” This can lead to nostalgic conversations that bring a smile to their face.
• Using old holiday photos or cherished ornaments as props can be a wonderful way to stimulate their memory and allow them to share stories. Even if their memory has declined, the act of reminiscing can help them feel valued and engaged.

Shared Purpose – Everyone enjoys feeling like they’re making a contribution, so offer activities that help your loved one feel involved and appreciated:

• Setting the Table: Let them take part in setting the table by allowing them to place napkins, arrange utensils, or pick a centerpiece. This gives them a sense of accomplishment and a way to contribute to the holiday meal.
• Gift Wrapping: Give them simple tasks such as sticking bows on presents or folding wrapping paper. These small, manageable tasks can still make them feel involved in gift-giving traditions.
• Sorting and Organizing: Sorting through holiday cards, stacking boxes, or arranging stockings can provide a meaningful way for them to stay active and contribute without feeling overwhelmed.

Quiet and Calm Activities – If your loved one prefers a more peaceful experience, there are many gentle activities that offer a sense of calm:

• Reading a Holiday Story or Poem: Take a few moments to read a favorite holiday story or a short poem aloud. The rhythm of the words, along with the peaceful atmosphere, can be incredibly soothing.
• Watching a Classic Holiday Movie: Watching a festive movie or even just video clips of holiday scenes can offer a relaxing way to enjoy the season together.
• Sitting by the Tree: Sometimes the best moments are those shared in silence. Sitting quietly together by a lit tree and simply enjoying the soft glow of the lights can be a soothing, grounding experience.

Cherishing the Holidays with Your Loved One: Finding Joy in the Present Moment

The holidays are a time for joy, togetherness, and creating lasting memories. For families with a loved one whose cognitive or physical abilities have changed over the years, the season may look different, but that doesn’t mean the joy has to fade. In fact, this is the perfect time to focus on the beauty of the present moment. By embracing your loved one as they are today, you can create new traditions and moments of connection that will be cherished for years to come.

Embracing Where They Are Now

One of the most loving things we can do for our aging loved ones is to meet them where they are. It’s so easy to focus on what they may no longer be able to do, but what if we shifted our attention to what brings them joy and comfort today? It might look a little different, but that’s what makes these moments so special.

     Conversations About the Past: If your loved one struggles with memory, let go of the pressure to get all the details right. Instead, engage them in conversations about memories they still hold dear. Ask about their favorite holiday traditions or the most memorable gifts they’ve ever received. You’ll be surprised by the joy these conversations can bring—even if the details aren’t perfectly remembered, the feelings are what matter most.

     Creating a Comfortable Environment: If mobility is limited, don’t worry! You can bring the holiday spirit to them. Set up a cozy holiday nook by their favorite chair where they can enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of the season. Whether it’s a simple Christmas tree in the corner or a holiday-scented candle nearby, these small touches help them feel part of the festivities without any added stress.

     Small, Simple Moments of Connection: Remember, it’s not about grand gestures or perfect experiences. It’s about cherishing the simple moments together. Take a moment to sit and chat, enjoy a cup of hot cocoa, or share a quiet holiday song. It’s these small, unspoken interactions that create lasting memories. And don’t forget: these are the moments that count, not how many decorations you can hang or how many people are around the table.

By releasing the pressure to recreate past holidays exactly as they were, you open the door to a season that celebrates the beauty of the present. And here’s a pro tip: Take lots of pictures! Snap photos of these moments, whether it’s your loved one decorating a cookie, enjoying a holiday movie, or just sharing a quiet laugh. These pictures will serve as reminders of the wonderful memories you’re creating right now. Trust me, when you look back at those photos years from now, you’ll see how much love and joy you shared, and they’ll be priceless.

Creating New Traditions

Even if your family’s traditional activities have changed, this doesn’t mean you can’t start new ones! Maybe it’s watching a holiday movie marathon or taking a drive to look at Christmas lights. Perhaps you create a new ritual where everyone shares something they’re grateful for before dinner. Whatever it may be, these small traditions are just as meaningful—and can bring your family even closer together.

Most importantly, enjoy the season without stressing over trying to make it “perfect.” By focusing on the here and now, you create space for real connections. This holiday season, celebrate the love you share, the memories you’re making today, and the joy that still fills your hearts—no matter what changes have come your way.

And, of course, don’t forget to share those beautiful, candid moments of joy. It’s these snapshots that will remind you—and your loved one—of the beauty in the simplicity of the holidays.

Selecting the right care setting for your loved one is a deeply personal decision that can significantly impact their quality of life. Two common options families often consider are traditional assisted living and smaller residential assisted living. While both offer valuable support for seniors, they differ in their approach, environment, and the level of personalized care they provide.

Concluding this series, we’ll explore a few other key differences between these two types of care settings, helping you better understand how each works and what factors to consider when making the best choice for your loved one’s needs. Let’s take a closer look at how each option can support your loved one in their journey to receive the care they deserve.

Cost Considerations

Traditional Assisted Living: Larger assisted living facilities sometimes offer more affordable options by providing a variety of room types, shared spaces, and standardized services. However, the cost can vary widely depending on location, amenities, and levels of care.  Confirm if all cost are included or if there are add ons depending on additional needs during the month. Always talk to facilities about what happens when private pay funds are exhausted.

Residential Assisted Living: Residential homes often have a more inclusive pricing model that covers care, meals, and activities, all provided within a small, home setting. While the cost may be higher, the value lies in the personalized attention, quality of care, and peace of mind for families.  Having a consistent bill makes it easier for families to budget.  Always talk to facilities about what happens when private pay funds are exhausted.

Approach to Health and Personal Care

Traditional Assisted Living: Many traditional facilities offer varying levels of care, often with specialized wings for memory care or advanced medical needs. However, with more residents to support, individualized attention can sometimes be limited.  The care wings or floors often mean that the resident needs to move from one area to another as their care needs change.

Residential Assisted Living: Residential homes are often better suited for seniors who need high levels of assistance with daily activities, especially those with specific needs like mobility challenges, cognitive decline, or conditions like Parkinson’s or ALS. At The Geneva Suites, trained caregivers follow personalized care plans crafted by nurses and occupational therapists, ensuring that each resident’s unique health needs are met with care and dignity.

Finding the Right Fit

When choosing between traditional and residential assisted living, ask yourself:

1. What kind of environment would my loved one feel most comfortable in—a larger community with more social opportunities or a smaller, home-like setting?
2. Does my loved one need high levels of personalized care that a smaller caregiver-to-resident ratio can provide?
3. Is flexibility in daily routine important, or would a structured schedule be more beneficial?
4. How important are personalized activities, individual attention, and a familiar setting to my loved one’s well-being?
5. What do our finances look like?  What happens if our private funds are exhausted?

Choosing the right care setting for your loved one is an important and personal decision. Traditional assisted living and residential assisted living are two popular options, each offering distinct benefits. Understanding their differences can guide you in finding the best fit. While both provide support for seniors in daily life, they vary in approach, environment, and the level of personalized care. Now let’s continue this series and explore how each option works and what factors to consider when making your choice.

Daily Flexibility and Routine

Traditional Assisted Living: In larger facilities, daily routines are often standardized for efficiency. Meals
are served at specific times in a central dining area, and activities may be scheduled according to set times each day. This
structure can be beneficial for seniors who thrive on routine, but it may feel restrictive for those who prefer more
flexibility.

Residential Assisted Living: Smaller residential settings typically offer greater flexibility in routines. For
instance, residents may enjoy meals when they prefer, as meals are often freshly prepared in the home kitchen by a chef.
At The Geneva Suites, the daily schedule is tailored to resident preferences, providing a more relaxed and adaptable
experience. This means if your loved one likes their current routine, even if is not typical, it often can be accommodated
in a smaller setting.

Care and Comfort

Traditional Assisted Living: Larger settings offer various amenities but may feel a bit more “facility-like.”
Many have multiple care levels, from general assistance to memory care.

Residential Assisted Living: Residential homes prioritize comfort and a sense of home. Designed with
warmth in mind, they provide care that feels personal, not clinical, meeting higher assistance needs while maintaining a
cozy atmosphere.

Activity Options

Traditional Assisted Living: With many residents, there are often group activities and outings, though these
may be scheduled broadly and less personalized.

Residential Assisted Living: In small homes, activities are often one-on-one and more adaptable. The
Geneva Suites uses an approach focused on meaningful, age-appropriate engagement, with therapy animals, personalized
exercises, and enriching activities designed to create a joyful, purposeful life.

Choosing the Right Assisted Living: Traditional vs. Residential—Finding the Best Fit for Your Loved One

So many have asked me what is the big difference between a typical Assisted Living and a Residential Assisted Living, and there are a few key differences.  I thought it might be fun to do a short series, here we go.

Selecting the right care environment for your loved one is a personal journey. Two popular choices—traditional assisted living and residential assisted living—offer unique advantages, and understanding the differences can help you make the best choice. While both aim to support seniors in their daily lives, they differ in their approach, environment, and the level of personalized care offered.

Here’s a look at how each option serves residents and what to consider as you decide.

Setting and Environment

• Traditional Assisted Living: Typically larger, these facilities resemble apartment complexes with a range of amenities and shared spaces. While they provide community, the scale may feel a bit impersonal.
• Residential Assisted Living: These homes, like The Geneva Suites, have fewer residents, often six or less, creating a warm, home-like feel in a neighborhood setting. For seniors who want a family-like atmosphere, residential assisted living offers comfort and familiarity.

Personalized Attention

• Traditional Assisted Living: Due to their larger size, traditional facilities often have a higher staff-to-resident ratio, meaning caregivers may be responsible for a larger number of residents. While staff are dedicated to providing good care, the number of residents can limit their ability to deliver highly individualized attention.
• Residential Assisted Living: Residential homes typically have a much lower staff-to-resident ratio. For example, at The Geneva Suites, the care model ensures close attention to each resident’s needs with one caregiver per three residents during the day. This ratio allows staff to spend more time with each resident, providing a level of personalized care and attention that’s difficult to achieve in larger settings.

We understand that our residents face unique challenges in daily tasks, such as dressing and personal care. To support their individual needs, we recognize the vital role of therapy in enhancing quality of life. When choosing between occupational therapy (OT) and physical therapy (PT), we have opted to bring an occupational therapist, onto our care team for several reasons:

Focus on Activities of Daily Living

Occupational therapy centers on improving everyday activities, helping residents regain independence in tasks that may feel daunting. While PT focuses on movement and strength, OT emphasizes fostering autonomy through personalized, meaningful goal-setting.

A Holistic Approach

OT considers physical, emotional, social, and environmental factors affecting well-being. By understanding each resident’s unique needs and goals, our occupational therapist will create a comprehensive plans that promote overall wellness.

Adaptive Strategies and Equipment

Occupational therapists recommend adaptive tools and strategies to make daily tasks easier, enhancing safety and accessibility. This focus empowers residents to engage in activities that matter most to them.

Cognitive Rehabilitation

For those facing cognitive challenges, OT provides targeted rehabilitation aimed at improving memory and decision-making skills, an area often overlooked in physical therapy.

Mental Health and Emotional Support

OT also addresses mental health concerns, offering support for anxiety, depression, and social isolation through activities that promote emotional well-being and social interaction.

While both OT and PT are essential, we believe that adding an occupational therapist to our care team will significantly enhance the support we provide for daily living activities, cognitive challenges, and mental health needs.

Beat the heat by staying hydrated!

As a caregiver, your role in ensuring the seniors you care for stay cool and hydrated is invaluable.  Here are some practical tips to help them stay hydrated:

1. By encouraging the seniors you care for to drink water throughout the day, even if they don’t feel thirsty, you’re empowering them to stay healthy. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day. Opt for water, herbal tea, or diluted fruit juices instead of sugary or caffeinated beverages.

2. Include fruits and vegetables with high water content in their diet. Watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, and strawberries are excellent choices. These foods not only hydrate but also provide essential nutrients.

3. Limit exposure to high temperatures, especially during peak hours. Encourage seniors to stay indoors or seek shade when it’s hot outside.

4. Consider wearing lightweight and breathable clothing, enabling better evaporation of sweat and maintaining body temperature.

5. Some medications can contribute to dehydration by increasing urine output or causing dry mouth. It’s important to be aware of the potential side effects and consult with healthcare professionals if necessary.

Remember, staying hydrated is a continuous effort, and it’s essential to create a supportive environment to ensure hydration needs are met.