Facilities for Alzheimer’s

How to Celebrate Father’s Day in Facilities for Alzheimer’s

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Father’s Day is celebrated on the third Sunday of June each year as a way to honor and appreciate fathers, grandfathers, and father figures for their love, sacrifices, and lifelong guidance. It is a time for families to reflect on cherished memories, show gratitude, and spend quality time together. For many, the day brings an opportunity to recognize a father’s legacy and his role within the family. However, when loved ones are in facilities for Alzheimer’s or are living with the progressive condition, celebrating Father’s Day can come with unique emotional and practical challenges.

  • Difficulty recognizing loved ones
  • Disruption from unfamiliar routines
  • Overstimulation from noise or decorations
  • Trouble participating in traditional activities
  • Changes in mood or behavior
  • Increased confusion in social settings
  • Emotional stress for caregivers
  • Physical limitations affecting engagement
  • Risk of agitation or distress
  • Trouble understanding the meaning of the holiday
  • Limited attention span or focus

These challenges often require thoughtful planning and a flexible approach to ensure the day remains meaningful, comforting, and inclusive for everyone involved.

Meaningful Yet Simple Celebrations

Celebrations don’t have to be lavish to feel meaningful, especially for individuals in facilities for Alzheimer’s. With a calm environment and a few intentional touches, Father’s Day can still offer connection, comfort, and joy. Here are simple yet thoughtful ways to celebrate:

  • Choose a familiar space to reduce confusion and promote ease.
  • Stick to short, simple activities that match his current abilities.
  • Look through old photos or listen to his favorite music together.
  • Share familiar foods, scents, or quiet sensory experiences.
  • Watch a favorite film or show that brings comfort.
  • Focus on shared moments instead of memory recall.
  • Include only close family or friends to avoid overstimulation.
  • Allow him to engage at his own pace without pressure.
  • Be patient with communication and accept the emotional changes that may occur.
  • Offer calm physical touch, such as a hand massage or a warm hug.
  • Gently redirect if distress or agitation arises.

Even if words fade, the feeling of being seen, valued, and loved can still resonate deeply on days that matter.

Gifts That Spark Connection in Facilities for Alzheimer’s

The best Father’s Day gifts for dads with Alzheimer’s are those that offer comfort, support routine, and help create an emotional connection without being overly complex. Ideal gifts often share these thoughtful qualities:

  • Simple to use and adapted for changing cognitive or physical needs
  • Supportive of familiar routines and daily comfort
  • Designed to encourage sensory engagement or reminiscence
  • Safe and calming, especially in shared or supervised living spaces
  • Able to prompt recognition without requiring memory recall
  • Encouraging gentle activity or soothing stimulation

When selecting actual gifts, consider categories that are both purposeful and meaningful:

Apparel

Easy-wear clothing can help dads maintain independence and comfort.

Gift ideas: Adaptive sweat suit, magnetic-closure hoodie

Entertainment

Low-pressure media supports relaxation without cognitive strain.

Gift ideas: Nature documentary DVD set, large-button music player

Memory Aids

Personalized visuals or audio can spark recognition and a sense of belonging.

Gift ideas: Talking photo album, digital rotating photo frame

Soothing Tools

Sensory-based items may reduce agitation or anxiety.

Gift ideas: Fidget sleeve, light therapy lamp

A well-chosen gift can serve as a quiet bridge to connection, even when words or memories fall away.

Are you looking for an excellent senior community in Nebraska? Click here to learn about Oxbow Living!

Oxbow Living offers Assisted Living & Memory Care out of Nebraska and to the Surrounding Cities: Ashland, South Bend, Greenwood, Murdock, Elmwood, Ithaca, Mead

Assisted Living Facilities

Encouraging Physical Fitness in Assisted Living Facilities | Move More Month

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Move More Month, observed every April, is an initiative by the American Heart Association that encourages people to incorporate more physical activity into their daily lives for better health. This campaign is significant for assisted living facilities, where regular movement can improve mobility, enhance well-being, and support overall quality of life.

Physical activity becomes even more essential for older adults, offering immediate and long-term health benefits.

  • Restful sleep. Promotes better sleep patterns.
  • Reduced stress. Eases feelings of anxiety.
  • Stronger heart. Decreases the chances of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
  • Sharper mind. Lowers the risk of dementia and depression.
  • Lower cancer risk. It helps protect against multiple types of cancer.
  • Enhanced bone health. Strengthens bones and minimizes fall-related injuries.
  • Sustained independence. Supports mobility and daily activities.

Considering these benefits, creating opportunities for movement in daily routines can significantly improve the quality of life for older adults.

Creative Ways to Encourage Movement in Assisted Living Facilities

Not every fitness activity sparks enthusiasm, so incorporating creativity into movement-based programs is essential, especially for those in assisted living facilities. Engaging options that combine fun and exercise can make physical activity more appealing and accessible.

 

  • Group Exercise Classes. Yoga, tai chi, and chair exercises provide gentle yet effective movement.
  • Walking Clubs. Encourages social engagement while promoting safe, regular walks.
  • Balance and Strength Training. It enhances mobility and lowers the risk of falls.
  • Toss and target Games. These games improve hand-eye coordination through ring toss, beanbag throws, and floor basketball.
  • Tabletop Activities. Games like curling, bowling, and skeeball offer movement in a seated position.
  • Therapy Ball Exercises. Light bouncing and rolling activities help with motor skills and flexibility.
  • Outdoor Games. Activities like shuffleboard, putting greens, and chip toss golf encourage fresh-air movement.
  • Dance & Rhythm Activities. Simple dance routines, seated dancing, or drumming to music promote movement and coordination.
  • Stretching & Flexibility Sessions. Gentle stretches help maintain joint mobility and reduce stiffness.
  • Water Aerobics. Low-impact pool exercises support joint health and cardiovascular fitness.
  • Chair Volleyball & Balloon Games. Encourages upper-body movement and reflexes in a fun, social setting.
  • Gardening & Light Outdoor Chores. Digging, planting, and watering provide natural movement and fresh air.
  • Virtual Reality Fitness Games. Interactive gaming experiences encourage movement through engaging digital activities.
  • Pet Therapy Walks. Walking or playing with therapy animals offers both physical and emotional benefits.

By making fitness engaging and adaptable, older adults can enjoy staying active while improving their overall well-being.

Motivating Residents to Stay Active

Physical fitness programs can only be successful when individuals feel encouraged to participate. Sustaining engagement requires thoughtful strategies to make movement enjoyable and rewarding, especially for older adults in assisted living facilities.

  • Set small, realistic milestones to build confidence and encourage consistency.
  • Offer verbal praise, certificates, or small incentives to reinforce positive behavior.
  • Remind residents how the movement supports independence, mental well-being, and social connection.
  • Organize group sessions, buddy systems, or themed events to make exercise social and fun.
  • Let residents choose activities based on their interests to boost engagement.
  • Incorporate games, music, and interactive challenges to make fitness enjoyable.
  • Celebrate progress, no matter how small, to boost morale and encourage participation.
  • Provide friendly reminders and personal invitations to make individuals feel included.
  • Rotate/Change exercises to keep routines fresh.
  • Pair residents with friends or staff members to create mutual motivation and support.

Fostering a motivating and enjoyable environment can encourage residents to embrace movement as part of their daily routine.

Learn about life at Oxbow Living by clicking here!

Oxbow Living offers Assisted Living & Memory Care out of Nebraska and to the Surrounding Cities: Ashland, South Bend, Greenwood, Murdock, Elmwood, Ithaca, Mead

Assisted Living Ashland

National Reading Month in Assisted Living Ashland

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Reading is vital for seniors because it engages the mind and provides comfort. Since March is National Reading Month in the U.S., it’s a great time to enjoy literature and meaningful conversations about books. Residents in assisted living Ashland can participate by joining group readings or exploring new stories independently.

Reading Programs at Assisted Living Ashland

Reading programs in assisted living Ashland provide seniors with meaningful ways to stay engaged with literature while fostering social connections. These programs help improve cognitive function, encourage emotional expression, and create opportunities for shared experiences through storytelling and discussion.

Book Clubs in Assisted Living Ashland

Book clubs offer residents a chance to read and discuss selected books in a social setting. Conversations about themes, characters, and personal interpretations help strengthen participant connections.

Poetry Readings

Poetry readings allow seniors to experience the rhythm and meaning of poetry through listening and reciting. Some may enjoy sharing their favorite poems, while others find comfort in hearing familiar verses read aloud.

Interactive Storytelling

This activity encourages seniors to participate actively by repeating phrases, responding to prompts, or sharing their related experiences. It transforms reading into an engaging and immersive group event.

Read-Aloud Sessions

Listening to stories read aloud brings joy and comfort to those who struggle with vision or other challenges. Residents can enjoy books, newspapers, or personal letters without the frustration of reading alone.

Themed Readings

Themed readings focus on topics like historical events, seasonal stories, or favorite pastimes, making literature more relatable. These sessions encourage discussion and spark memories tied to personal experiences.

Through these activities, assisted living Ashland ensures that residents can continue to enjoy the benefits of reading while connecting with others meaningfully.

What to Read in March in Assisted Living Ashland

With countless books, here are some great options that are particularly fitting for National Reading Month in the assisted living facility.

She’s Not Sorry, by Mary Kubica

This exciting thriller follows ICU nurse Meghan Michaels as she unravels the mystery behind a patient’s suspicious fall. Balancing work and single motherhood, Meghan becomes entangled in a dangerous web of secrets that put her and her daughter at risk. With its compelling plot and emotional depth, this novel offers senior readers an engaging and thought-provoking story filled with suspense and intrigue.

Digital Fortress, by Dan Brown

This fast-paced thriller follows cryptographer Susan Fletcher as she uncovers a secret that threatens national security. As she navigates deception and danger, the novel delves into the power of encryption, surveillance ethics, and trust limits. With its mix of intrigue, technology, and global stakes, this book offers senior readers an exciting, intellectually stimulating story filled with suspense and mystery.

Sometimes I Lie, by Alice Feeney

This gripping psychological thriller unravels the mystery of Amber Reynolds, a woman trapped in a coma yet fully aware of her surroundings. Shocking secrets come to light as she pieces together fragmented memories from the past and present. With its unpredictable twists and exploration of truth and perception, this novel offers senior readers an engaging, thought-provoking read that keeps them guessing until the end.

 

Looking for excellent care in Nebraska? Click here to learn all about Oxbow Living!

Oxbow Living offers Assisted Living & Memory Care out of Nebraska and to the Surrounding Cities: Ashland, South Bend, Greenwood, Murdock, Elmwood, Ithaca, Mead

Senior Living Center

Cognitive Exercises to Do with a Loved One with Dementia in Facilities for Alzheimer’s

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Cognitive engagement is crucial for individuals living with dementia, especially in facilities for Alzheimer’s patients. Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia can lead to a decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning abilities, affecting daily functioning. However, structured mental exercises can provide significant benefits, including slowing cognitive decline, enhancing mood, and improving quality of life. The role of cognitive exercises in memory care facilities is paramount, helping residents retain abilities for extended periods and promoting connections with their loved ones.

How Facilities for Alzheimer’s Can Support Cognitive Exercises

OxBow facilities are dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with Alzheimer’s by creating an environment that supports cognitive stimulation and overall well-being. The care teams in these facilities recognize the importance of mental engagement and utilize a range of activities designed to activate memory and stimulate the brain. Some of the most effective and straightforward activities in these environments include:

Puzzles and Memory Games

Simple puzzles and memory games are fantastic tools for stimulating cognitive function. Activities like jigsaw puzzles help individuals with dementia exercise problem-solving skills and retain focus. Memory games that challenge recall are also beneficial, as they engage the brain in recalling familiar people, places, and things, reinforcing connections in long-term memory.

Word Searches

Word search puzzles are an excellent exercise for dementia patients in facilities for Alzheimer’s. These puzzles require individuals to focus on letters, which promotes cognitive engagement and can help improve short-term memory and attention. Word searches can also be customized to the interests or life history of the resident, making them more personal and engaging.

Benefits of Art Therapy

Art therapy has proven to be a powerful way to promote cognitive stimulation. Engaging in creative activities such as drawing, painting, or sculpting allows individuals with Alzheimer’s to express themselves in ways that words may no longer permit. The act of creating something visually or tactilely engaging helps activate various parts of the brain and can lead to improved mood and self-esteem.

Music-Based Activities in Facilities for Alzheimer’s

Music is another fundamental cognitive exercise in Alzheimer’s facilities. Research has shown that music can tap into memories and emotions even when other cognitive functions have declined. Singing familiar songs, listening to music, or even playing musical instruments can evoke joyful memories and provide patients a deep sense of comfort. Music-based activities can also help improve mood and encourage socialization among residents.

Strengthening Connections through Activities

Engaging with a loved one through cognitive exercises stimulates the brain and strengthens emotional bonds. Facilities for Alzheimer’s patients, like OxBow, understand the significance of fostering these emotional connections, mainly when memory loss affects communication.

A few examples of activities that help maintain and strengthen these connections include:

Storytelling and Reminiscing Exercises

Storytelling and reminiscing are potent exercises that encourage individuals to recall personal memories and share stories from their past. These activities can promote cognitive stimulation, allowing family members to connect emotionally with their loved ones. Reminiscing activities, mainly centered around past experiences, can help residents feel understood and valued, even if they struggle with memory loss.

Participating in Sensory Activities in Facilities for Alzheimer’s

Sensory activities, such as gardening or touching different textures, allow residents to use their senses of sight, smell, touch, and hearing, which can have a therapeutic effect. In many facilities for Alzheimer’s, gardening offers a multi-sensory experience that helps improve concentration and boost mood. The tactile experience of soil, the scents of flowers, and the vibrant colors of plants help bring patients into the present moment, providing a welcome break from cognitive challenges. These activities are essential for promoting emotional well-being and mental health, and they also foster a sense of belonging and socialization among residents, which is necessary for reducing feelings of isolation.

So, whether through puzzles, art, music, or sensory activities, these exercises keep the mind engaged while strengthening bonds between patients and their families. The continuous mental stimulation these activities provide contributes to improving the quality of life for Alzheimer’s patients and ensures they continue to feel valued and understood in their care setting.

Looking for excellent memory care in Nebraska? Click here to learn about Oxbow Living!

Oxbow Living offers Assisted Living & Memory Care out of Nebraska and to the Surrounding Cities: Ashland, South Bend, Greenwood, Murdock, Elmwood, Ithaca, Mead

Assisted Living Facilities

Valentine’s Day Activities in Assisted Living Facilities

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Many people celebrate Valentine’s Day. Assisted living facilities offer a unique opportunity to foster connection, joy, and emotional well-being. Whether residents spend the day with a significant other, a close friend, or fellow residents, the day provides a moment to honor relationships, share love, and create lasting memories. Group activities can help individuals feel valued, uplift their spirits, and promote community within assisted living facilities.

Activity Ideas for Assisted Living Facilities

This special day of the hearts provides numerous opportunities to engage residents in fun, festive, and heartwarming activities. Assisted living facilities can incorporate these ideas to create an atmosphere of celebration while encouraging residents to connect.

Decorating Communal Spaces

One of the most straightforward and most enjoyable activities is decorating communal spaces. Residents can participate in crafting colorful heart-shaped decorations, garlands, and banners, transforming shared areas into a festive and warm setting.

Crafting activities allow individuals to express creativity while promoting fine motor skills and a sense of accomplishment. These decorations brighten the environment and help foster a communal atmosphere where everyone can share in the joy of the season.

Romantic Movie Screenings or Poetry Readings

For many, Valentine’s Day is synonymous with romance. Romantic movie screenings or poetry readings can be an excellent way to evoke emotions and spark memories of past experiences. Assisted living facilities can organize movie screenings featuring classic romantic films or host poetry readings where residents can enjoy love poems or share their own.

Couple and Friendship-Themed Events

Valentine’s Day is about celebrating love in all forms. Assisted living facilities can host couple and friendship-themed events to accommodate a variety of relationships.

For example, some events may focus on couples by offering intimate dances, card-making stations, or sharing love stories. Others can highlight friendship, encouraging residents to engage in activities like making “friendship bracelets ” or participating in group games designed to strengthen connections. These events foster a sense of belonging and community, helping residents feel loved and appreciated by their peers.

What is the Significance of Valentine’s Day in Assisted Living?

Valentine’s Day is especially significant for assisted living facility residents, allowing them to honor their connections with others. As people age, relationships may shift, and some residents may experience isolation or a sense of loneliness. Valentine’s Day celebrations in assisted living facilities help combat these feelings by emphasizing the importance of romantic, platonic, or familial companionship.

For many residents, Valentine’s Day activities allow them to engage with fellow residents and staff in a way that may not always occur throughout the year. Social interaction is critical in assisted living, as it helps maintain mental and emotional health. Engaging in themed activities that emphasize love and friendship promotes a sense of emotional well-being, reduces stress, and combats feelings of loneliness, all of which are crucial aspects of health for older adults. Additionally, the festivities allow families to connect with their loved ones in assisted living facilities. They can visit and participate in activities with their loved ones, strengthening bonds and creating new, positive memories.

Looking for excellent senior care in Nebraska? Click here to learn about Oxbow Living.

Oxbow Living offers Assisted Living & Memory Care out of Nebraska and to the Surrounding Cities: Ashland, South Bend, Greenwood, Murdock, Elmwood, Ithaca, Mead

Assisted Living Facilities

Winter Activities for Residents in Assisted Living Ashland

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As winter sets in, it’s essential for residents of assisted living communities to stay engaged in activities that promote both physical and mental well-being. Seasonal activities help combat isolation, improve mood, and encourage social interaction. With winter activities for residents in assisted living in Ashland, various indoor activities can keep residents connected, active, and happy during the colder months.

Creative Indoor Activities in Assisted Living Ashland

Winter is the perfect time for creative indoor activities that engage the mind and offer opportunities for artistic expression. Baking is a great option that stimulates the senses and fosters a sense of accomplishment. Assisted living residents can participate in simple baking projects such as cookies or muffins and enjoy the warmth and aroma of fresh treats as they bond with others in the community.

Puzzles are another popular indoor activity that promotes cognitive health. Whether working on a jigsaw puzzle together or solving brainteasers, this activity encourages teamwork and problem-solving while offering a fun challenge. Residents can also try painting, an excellent way to express creativity and unwind. These activities provide mental stimulation while fostering a sense of purpose and pride in their work.

Group Events in Assisted Living Ashland

Group events are a fantastic way to unite residents, encouraging socialization and community-building. Storytelling nights are a cherished activity that allows residents to share personal stories or tales from their past, keeping memories alive while promoting deep connections with others. This event encourages participation and offers residents a safe, welcoming space to express themselves.

Musical nights are another enjoyable group activity at assisted living Ashland. Residents can listen to live music or participate in sing-alongs. Music has been shown to have therapeutic effects, enhancing memory and emotional well-being. For those who enjoy a little friendly competition, trivia games are a great way to challenge the mind in a fun and engaging way. Group trivia fosters teamwork and intellectual stimulation, providing a lively atmosphere for everyone involved.

Wellness-Focused Activities

Physical health is just as crucial as mental well-being, especially during winter when outdoor activities are limited. Wellness-focused activities in assisted living Ashland can help residents stay active and healthy. Yoga is a low-impact activity that enhances flexibility, balance, and strength. Gentle chair yoga is a popular option for residents with limited mobility, providing all the benefits of yoga without the need to get on the floor.

Meditation sessions are another way to help residents stay grounded and relaxed during the winter. These sessions offer a calm space for mindfulness, reducing stress and promoting mental clarity. For residents looking to stay active, light exercises such as stretching or walking around the facility can help maintain muscle strength and improve circulation. These wellness activities promote physical health while fostering a sense of relaxation and peace.

Winter activities at Assisted Living Ashland are essential for enhancing residents’ overall well-being. These activities, from creative indoor projects to social group events and wellness-focused routines, help residents stay engaged, active, and connected throughout the season.

Click here to learn all about OxBow Living!

Oxbow Living offers Assisted Living & Memory Care out of Nebraska and to the Surrounding Cities: Ashland, South Bend, Greenwood, Murdock, Elmwood, Ithaca, Mead

Assisted Living Ashland

Winter Must-Reads for Residents in a Senior Living Center

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Reading is an enriching activity that can significantly enhance the quality of life for a resident in a senior living center, especially during the colder winter months. With shorter days and more time indoors, books provide a perfect escape, stimulating the mind and offering a cozy, engaging way to pass the time. Whether through fiction or nonfiction, reading can foster relaxation, spark imagination, and create a sense of connection with others.

Benefits of Reading During Winter in Your Senior Living Center

Winter is an ideal time to immerse oneself in the world of books. Reading brings numerous benefits for seniors in senior living centers, especially during this quieter, slower season. One of the most essential benefits is relaxation. Reading allows residents to unwind, reduce stress, and promote a peaceful mind. So, whether it’s curling up with a cup of tea or sitting by a warm fire, a good book can provide an enjoyable escape from the harsh winter weather.

Reading offers relaxation and mental stimulation. Regular reading is associated with cognitive benefits, helping to keep the mind sharp and engaged. This is particularly important for seniors, as mental stimulation can support memory, problem-solving skills, and focus. Winter in a senior living center can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation, but books provide a bridge to new worlds, helping residents stay mentally active and socially connected. Reading also allows residents to engage in discussions with others, further enhancing their social well-being.

Top Genres to Explore

When choosing books for winter reading in your senior living center, specific genres tend to be particularly captivating during the colder months. Cozy mysteries, for example, provide an excellent balance of suspense and comfort, often featuring charming settings that bring warmth even when the weather outside is cold. Historical fiction can also be appealing, as it offers a chance to explore different periods and immerse oneself in rich, well-researched stories that transport readers to another era.

Romance novels are perfect for winter for those who enjoy a more emotional journey. Heartwarming tales of love and human connection offer comfort and hope, especially during the holiday season. Additionally, memoirs and autobiographies can be deeply inspiring, offering insights into the lives of others and providing an opportunity for reflection. For a change of pace, thrillers and crime novels can provide excitement and intrigue with unexpected twists and gripping storylines that keep readers on the edge.

Books to Read in Your Senior Living Center

 There are countless books to choose from, but here are some great options that are particularly fitting for winter reading in a senior living center:

One Day in December by Josie Silver

This heartwarming romance follows Laurie, who spots a man on a bus and instantly falls in love with him. Over the next ten years, their lives cross in unexpected ways. This love, fate, and timing story is perfect for those who enjoy an emotional journey that spans seasons and years.

One by One by Ruth Ware

Set in an isolated ski resort, this mystery novel is filled with suspense and atmospheric tension. When friends gather for a retreat, things turn dark as members start disappearing. For fans of thrilling, edge-of-your-seat plots, this book is a must-read.

Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney

This psychological thriller is ideal for readers who enjoy mind-bending twists. It tells the story of a couple who go on a weekend getaway only to discover their pasts hold secrets they’ve never confronted. The narrative is compelling, with lots of suspense and unexpected developments, making it an excellent pick for the winter months.

Dead of Winter by Stephen Mack Jones

A gripping crime novel that blends mystery and wintery intrigue, this book follows the main character as he uncovers dark secrets while dealing with the harsh conditions of a Michigan winter. The perfect blend of crime, suspense, and atmospheric storytelling makes it an exciting winter read.

Senior Living Center Reading

Reading in a senior living center during winter can be enjoyable and beneficial. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, mental stimulation, or just a good story to escape into, these winter must-reads offer something for everyone. From heartwarming romances to spine-tingling mysteries, these books can enhance residents’ experience in any senior living center, providing comfort and excitement as they embrace the season.

Looking for excellent care in Nebraska? Click here to learn about OxBow Living!

Oxbow Living offers Assisted Living & Memory Care out of Nebraska and to the Surrounding Cities: Ashland, South Bend, Greenwood, Murdock, Elmwood, Ithaca, Mead

Assisted Living Ashland

How Facilities for Alzheimer’s Celebrate the Holidays Beyond Christmas

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Exploring Holidays Beyond Christmas

While Christmas is probably the most celebrated holiday, celebrations like Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Year are also commemorated to honor the diverse community of residents in facilities for Alzheimer’s. Celebrating these holidays would allow residents to acknowledge each unique tradition and background. Exploring other Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Year fosters empathy and brings joy to senior residents while at the same time learning and understanding their stories.

Hannukah, or the Festival of Lights, is an eight-day celebration commemorating the re-dedication of the second temple in Jerusalem. Jewish families gather to light a candle each night and enjoy traditional Jewish food. Hannukah is all about God’s providence and protection of the Jewish people. This Jewish holiday is also about standing up for what is right, resilience, and faith.

Meanwhile, Kwanzaa is an African holiday from December 26 to January 01, created by African scholar and activist Maulana Karenga in 1966. For Kwanza, you light a Kinara, a wooden candle holder with each candle representing the seven principles: Unity, Self-Determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Economic Cooperation, Purpose, Creativity, and Faith. Emphasizing and honoring its African heritage, Kwanzaa is all about feast, music, and storytelling.

Who does not celebrate New Year? This global holiday marks fresh beginnings, a time of hope and optimism. New Year is all about setting new goals, correcting past mistakes, dreaming big, and looking forward to continuing life with renewed faith. Parties, music, countdowns, and fireworks are often associated with New Year celebrations.

These holidays are unique and beautiful. They are meant to be shared with families and loved ones, including those in Alzheimer’s facilities.

How Facilities for Alzheimer’s Can Create Inclusive Celebrations

Assisted living communities must embrace residents’ diverse cultures to create a welcoming and inclusive environment. These holiday festivities allow residents to socialize and feel happy and included, combating loneliness and isolation. Including these festivities in the yearly activities shows respect for diversity and fosters a feeling of belonging.

Memory care facilities can learn about their residents’ diverse backgrounds through surveys, open talks, or direct speaking with them. This way, management and staff can design and prepare events appropriate for each holiday, including decorations, activities, performances, sessions, and other related programs.

Remember to actively seek feedback from residents to improve future events. Creating an inclusive environment for residents promotes and strengthens relationships, creating a sense of unity that contributes to well-being.

Engaging residents in learning and sharing

Embracing diversity allows each one to celebrate each one’s unique religious and non-religious practices. Residents should not hold back in fear of discrimination. Instead, residents in facilities for Alzheimer’s must feel comfortable and welcomed regardless of age, color, background, religious beliefs, or nationality.

Residents must feel comfortable sharing and engaging, fostering connection and understanding. Memory care facilities can organize cultural nights, storytelling sessions, and food festivals to encourage residents to share and showcase their unique culture and traditions.

Arts and crafts, learning a new language, or themed events would encourage residents to participate, spark new interest, and provide fresh perspectives.

Fun and Value for Everyone in Facilities for Alzheimer’s

By promoting sharing and learning, facilities for Alzheimer’s offer an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone feels valued. Learn about life at OxBow Living by clicking here!

Oxbow Living offers Assisted Living & Memory Care out of Nebraska and to the Surrounding Cities: Ashland, South Bend, Greenwood, Murdock, Elmwood, Ithaca, Mead

Senior Housing Ashland NE

Plan the Best Holiday Party in Senior Housing Ashland NE

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Steps to planning a successful party

The holiday season is here, and everyone is excited to celebrate it with loved ones. But residents in senior housing Ashland NE might not feel the same way. Being away from loved ones and home can be lonely for some seniors, leading to depression and isolation.

Families and carers are vital in making the holidays memorable and meaningful. Whether taking care of their daily needs or being there to listen, they are important in ensuring that every day and the holiday season are something to look forward to.

But before anything else, careful planning is key to a successful party.  A well-planned event reduces stress, enhances everyone’s experience, and makes the celebration memorable. So, here are simple ways to celebrate with your loved ones in senior housing.

  • First, make the environment festive. Choose a theme for the decorations and incorporate personal touches.
  • Contact family members, encourage everyone to participate, and visit loved ones if possible. Other than presents and decorations, time is the most valuable gift.
  • Prepare a hearty meal for everyone to enjoy. Add family-treasured recipes that would stir up conversations and evoke memories. But be mindful of the dietary restrictions.
  • Make a list of the activities your loved one would like to do. Always consider their preferences and conditions. This will help you narrow the options and find activities to make the celebration more meaningful and enjoyable.
  • Ensure that the place is comfortable and everything is accessible, particularly for residents with mobility impairments.

Ensuring inclusivity and accessibility

  • Inclusivity and accessibility are two essential aspects that cannot be overlooked. However, since some seniors face challenges in health, accessibility, and diverse preferences, staff and organizers must know how to entertain their guests.
  • The venue must be wheelchair-friendly, with seating and ramps.  It should also be accessible to all attendees.
  • Get everyone involved. Encourage residents to participate in decorating dining halls and common areas. Allow them to be creative in decorating their personal spaces.
  • Ask for suggestions on themes, music, food, and activities to create a festive atmosphere. Knowing their preferences ensures the program is inclusive and enjoyable.
  • Invite family and friends to come and join senior housing Ashland NE organized celebrations to strengthen the bond between residents and their families while at the same time promoting a sense of togetherness.
  • Also, invite community members or collaborate with community organizations to promote connection and create a vibrant community.
  • Offer menus that cater to the diverse preferences and dietary needs of residents. You may also include traditional dishes to create a sense of familiarity.
  • Staff must be available throughout the celebration to assist when needed.

Involving the community and families

Being in senior housing Ashland NE should not be a reason for families not to enjoy the holidays together. It just needs careful planning to balance the personal and professional life, allowing families to celebrate together.

  • Put up holiday decorations together and make personal spaces more festive.
  • Make holiday-themed arts and crafts together. You explore your creative sides and bond with your loved ones.
  • Bring family members, grandchildren, neighbors, or friends to visit loved ones. Seeing familiar faces will make them happy and reminisce about past celebrations.
  • Cook or bake your favorite holiday meal or treats. Bond in the kitchen, share stories about what you love most about the holidays, etc.
  • Continue family traditions and create new ones. Document these by taking photos and videos, something everyone can watch and relive for future generations.

Click here to learn about life at OxBow Living!

Oxbow Living offers Assisted Living & Memory Care out of Nebraska and to the Surrounding Cities: Ashland, South Bend, Greenwood, Murdock, Elmwood, Ithaca, Mead

Senior Living Center

Planning Thanksgiving Celebrations in Senior Living in Nebraska

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The Thanksgiving celebration becomes more special if spent with family and friends. Senior family members are life’s blessings that we need to celebrate. Loved ones in senior living in Nebraska should be part of the yearly tradition even if they cannot travel. Visit your loved ones in senior housing, gather around the table, enjoy favorite family meals, share life updates, and give thanks for all the blessings.

What Thanksgiving is All About

Thanksgiving is a famous American holiday that is all about family and gratitude. It is an annual holiday with a history dating back to the 17th century.

According to history, before Americans enjoyed the feast that comes with Thanksgiving, it was originally observed to commemorate the colonial pilgrims’ harvest meal in 1621. Various reasons for gratitude were celebrated in subsequent years. However, the first official designated Thanksgiving Day was in 1789. On September 28, 1863, then-President Lincoln declared Thanksgiving to be celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November.

Modern Thanksgiving Day is a time for families to gather over a traditional Thanksgiving meal: roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie.  But more than the food, Thanksgiving is mainly a day to reflect on the small and big blessings received the entire year. It is a day dedicated to acknowledging the present blessings and what’s about to come. It is a day of reminder to be content and thankful.

Thanksgiving is also a day to give back to the community: senior living in Nebraska facilities, charities and organizations, and the less privileged. It is a time to donate time, resources, kindness, and compassion. Thanksgiving is about creating a more positive and meaningful celebration.

Celebrating in Senior Living in Nebraska

Here are simple yet meaningful ways to celebrate Thanksgiving.

Family Thanksgiving Meal

Lunch or dinner won’t matter if everyone is willing to spend time with the family. If everyone is too busy to cook your favorite meals, you can dine at your favorite restaurant nearby or order food to enjoy in senior living in Nebraska.

Keep Family Traditions

Ask senior family members how they’d like to celebrate this year’s Thanksgiving like they used to when they were younger. Ask family members to share their time in the planning and preparation.

Volunteer

Show your gratitude by volunteering. If you have the time or resources, visit institutions that need volunteer work or funds to further their mission and efforts.

Community Events

Attend community events together to meet new people and probably see familiar faces. Reminisce the good old days of previous Thanksgiving celebrations.

Thanksgiving is about being grateful and content with what you have. This year and in the years to come, it should be a memorable day for everyone, near or far. If distance does not permit, use technology to stay in touch with loved ones. Regardless of how you want to celebrate Thanksgiving, it should be centered on gratitude and everything you are thankful for.

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Oxbow Living offers Assisted Living & Memory Care out of Nebraska and to the Surrounding Cities: Ashland, South Bend, Greenwood, Murdock, Elmwood, Ithaca, Mead