Magnolia Manor Blog

June is officially designated Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, to focus attention on the importance of brain health. So consider this: here in the US, 10% of those age 65 or older have some form of dementia according to a new study conducted by Columbia University. They say another 22% of Americans over 65 have mild cognitive impairment.

Not surprisingly, dementia becomes more prevalent with age – just 3% of those age 65-69 but 35% of those 90+. However, while dementia is a significant concern, it is not a normal part of aging. So how can you tell the difference between everyday forgetfulness and early signs of dementia, especially if you’re concerned about an aging parent?

Who doesn’t want the very best for their aging Mom or Dad – or for yourself in your later years when you need a little assistance? One of the many reasons residents and their relatives love Magnolia Manor is that we treat everyone, residents and staff together, like family. We are proud of the outstanding care we provide. But we’re always striving to be even better.

With that in mind, when our Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) told us a few years ago that they would be very interested in finding ways to advance their skills and career, we listened! And after doing some research, we created the Magnolia Manor Career Ladder Program. We launched the program in 2018 at our Marion County (Buena Vista) campus, and now offer it at our Columbus campus as well.

Remember when mental health was one of those things we just didn’t talk about? Thankfully, those days are gone. Medical scientists, backed by extensive research, have helped us understand how closely each person’s body, mind and spirit are intertwined. Mental health is crucial to overall well-being, and that’s especially true for seniors.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, so it’s a great time to talk about why and how seniors can benefit from a greater emphasis on emotional and cognitive stimulation.

The vast majority of Americans over 50 say they want to age in place – remaining in their home and familiar surroundings. That’s understandable, but it’s not easy when aging also brings increasing physical limitations and health concerns. The growing in-home care industry is designed to give seniors the help they need to age in place, but home health care also has limitations.

Should you choose a senior living community instead, despite the fact you’ll have to move? It’s important to understand how the two options differ, whether you’re deciding on the best course of action for yourself or for your Mom or Dad.

Staying in your home may give the impression of independence, but a senior living community can actually help you remain more independent, longer.

One of the hardest things about growing up and growing older is seeing your parents grow older, too. You’ve always looked to Mom and Dad for guidance and emotional support, but there comes a day when they need your support and guidance, even if they are hesitant to admit it. Just the thought of moving into assisted living can be fraught with emotion aside from the practical considerations.

So how can you tell if the time is right to have that conversation? Sometimes the answer is obvious – Mom falls and breaks her hip or Dad has a stroke. Most of the time, it’s not so obvious, so you have to keep your eye out for clues. These signs indicate Mom or Dad may be safer, healthier and happier in an assisted living community.

Many older adults resist the thought of moving to an assisted living community even when they should be seriously considering it. It’s not easy facing the fact that you can’t do everything the way you could when you were younger. All too often, though, that resistance is based on misconceptions about what it’s like to live in an assisted living community.

Let’s dispel those myths! Here are five common ones that may sound familiar to you:

Losing a loved one – a family member or friend – is so hard. Some people have more experience with this type of grief than others, but eventually it comes to all of us. The loss can feel overwhelming, impossible to face. Acknowledging that simple fact makes it easier to navigate the grieving process. So does understanding that common myths about grief can get in the way, because there is no right way to grieve.

So let’s dispel some of those myths and misconceptions right now.

Spirituality is so personal, isn’t it? Here at Magnolia Manor, our deep Methodist roots serve as the foundation for who we are as a non-profit, senior living organization. Our faith-based tradition guides us every day as we strive to help every resident live their most fulfilling life. Does this mean we serve only Methodists?

Did you know that age-related changes to your mouth and teeth increase your risk for tooth and gum disease? Oral health issues can significantly reduce your ability to eat comfortably. And that can reduce your ability (or desire) to get the nutrition necessary to maintain good physical and mental health. More and more seniors are keeping their original teeth these days, but if you wear dentures, oral health is just as important for you.

Aging typically brings some loss of physical and/or mental capability, but there are many ways seniors can fight back against the “inevitable.” Regular exercise and mental engagement keep your body and mind as strong and healthy as possible. So does eating a nutritious, well-balanced diet. In fact, certain foods have been shown to actually improve mental performance and memory.