20 Ways to Care for the Caregiver

Posted on May 6, 2013 by americanhouse

Being a caregiver is a difficult undertaking and it’s important to remember to take care of YOU so you can effectively take care of others. Caregivers can face an increased risk of developing heath issues, including depression, sleep deprivation and chronic conditions including high blood pressure — and caregivers often find themselves neglecting their own health and well-being.

Here are some important ways to take care of you, as the caregiver:

MENTALLY & SPIRTUALLY

1. Say “No.” Remember that you don’t have to do it all. When appropriate, know that it’s OK to say “no.”

2. Get organized. Take the time to find a system that works for you, whether it’s lists on your refrigerator or reminders on your phone.

3. Acknowledge your feelings. It’s OK to be sad, upset or scared about things you’re going through as a caregiver. You don’t have to be cheery and happy every second.

4. Let it go. You’ve got a lot on your mind, so find a way to get it out: Write in a journal every night, talk to a trusted friend or work with a therapist.

5. Set boundaries. When you set boundaries, you are more likely to stick to them — and help save yourself stress from unsavory situations.

PHYSICALLY

6. Exercise. Take a brisk walk every day. Not only will this benefit you physically, but it will help to clear your mind, too.

7. Eat right. Be sure to give yourself plenty of healthy food options and eat nutritionally-balanced meals to keep up your strength and overall health.

8. Get regular checkups. When you call to make a doctor’s (or dental) appointment for the person in your care, be sure to take the time to schedule your own.

9. Sleep. Try for at least eight hours of sleep each night to keep your body rested and ready to combat any potential illnesses.

10. Rest when sick. The sooner you are back to optimal health, the sooner you can give full care to your loved one.

SOCIALLY

11. Connect with friends. Maintain your friendships or make new ones. Spending time with peers is important to retaining your sense self.

12. Find a hobby. Choose something you enjoy doing — a yoga class, scrapbooking, a book club, etc. — and make sure you do it every week.

13. Seek support. It’s important to find someone, such as a support group or another caregiver, who understands the unique challenges you face.

14. Plan fun. Give yourself something to look forward to by scheduling something fun. Do this regularly.

15. Schedule “me” time. At some point each day, do something that’s only for YOU. Take a walk, read a book, watch a movie or something else that brings you enjoyment.

RESOURCES

16. Ask for help. Whether it’s from family members, friends or health professionals don’t be afraid to receive help before you become overwhelmed.

17. Seek professional assistance. When possible, find out if you can delegate any of your responsibilities— whether these are for you (such as housecleaning, etc.) or your loved one.

18. Take care of your finances. Talk to an accountant or financial director about your financial means to make sure you’re not spreading yourself too thin. Ask about medical benefits available.

19. Write it down. Keep a list handy to jot down things to discuss with doctors, information to look up and resources to ask about, etc. so you won’t wonder if you’re forgetting anything.

20. Consider other arrangements. There are many options available for care, including assisted living communities like American House.

AMERICAN HOUSE CARES

At American House, we know that being a caregiver can be stressful. If you have any questions or would like to see what American House has to offer, give us a call at (248) 579-4422 or visit www.americanhouse.com to schedule a visit.

American House resident Hattie Manley talks about serving others and living the good life

Posted on April 29, 2013 by americanhouse

You don’t have to slow down just because you’ve grown a little older. American House Oakland’s Hattie Manley is the perfect example of living life to its fullest. Born in Nashville, Tenn., it wasn’t soon after Ms. Manley moved to Pontiac, Mich., and became a staple of community service.

For her more than 63 years of service to the community, Pontiac recently recognized Ms. Manley with the Pontiac Women Achiever’s Award. When asked what inspires her, Ms. Manley simply responded, “I like to do things. I’m a doer. I like to be a positive light in the community and help people who need it.”

Her favorite place to volunteer is her church, St. Stephen Missionary Baptist Church, where she runs the outreach food programs. In addition to serving food for the community, she also cooks and serves Sunday breakfast every week and handles funeral dinners — with the help of her volunteers.

“Meals are associated with fellowship and community,” Ms. Manley explained. “If I can prepare dinner for someone, that’s one less thing people in need have to worry about.”

Ms. Manley was even dedicated to helping people in her professional career, where she was a licensed practical nurse (LPN) for two years. She also went for additional training and became a registered nurse (RN) for 30 years at Pontiac General (which now goes by Doctors’ Hospital of Michigan).

Ms. Manley is also passionate about the younger generations in the community.

“The young people need to keep advancing,” she said. “You don’t have to stop – you can always do something. You can always make something better.”

In her free time, she still loves to cook and spend time with her family. She has 30 grandchildren, 36 great grandchildren and more than five generations of family.

Detroit Symphony Orchestra Brings Music to American House Residents’ Ears

Posted on April 2, 2013 by americanhouse

Being able to experience the wonderful culture of the area — especially the Detroit Symphony Orchestra — is one of the great benefits of living at American House Senior Living Communities! We’re very proud to have deepened our partnership with the DSO to present 36 engagements in 2013 where musicians will perform for residents at more than 20 of our American House locations.

“We’re committed to enriching the lives of our senior citizens throughout the area,” said Rob Gillette, chief operating officer of American House. “Countless studies have shown the benefits of both music and a rich social life in older adults. We are confident this partnership will prove beneficial for both our seniors and the DSO musicians themselves.”

Each month, three American House communities will host the DSO sessions for residents. Three to four DSO musicians will play for one hour at the community and residents have the opportunity to talk to the musicians during a meet and greet afterward. American House sponsors the sessions so residents are able to enjoy the DSO free of charge.

DSO musicians will also present “Inspiration Days,” in which American House residents will learn more about these artists’ paths to becoming professional musicians, hear and watch them demonstrate their instruments and have the opportunity to ask questions.

DSO PERFORMS AT AMERICAN HOUSE

Here is a list of American House Senior Engagement locations, where the Detroit Symphony Orchestra musicians will perform. April and May locations have been confirmed, but look for DSO ensembles to visit your local American House throughout the coming year!

APRIL 2013

Sterling II: 2 p.m. Monday, April 8 at 33433 Schoenherr, Sterling Heights, MI 48312.
Baldwin House: 2:30 p.m. Monday, April 15 at 200 Chester, Birmingham, MI 48009.
Riverview: 2:30 p.m. Monday, April 22 at 20300 Fort St, Riverview, MI 48193.

MAY 2013

Carpenter: 2 p.m. Monday, May 13 at 3470 Carpenter Road, Ypsilanti, MI 48197
Hazel Park: 2:00 p.m. Monday, May 20 at 777 E. Woodward Heights, Hazel Park, MI 48030
Sterling I: 2:00 p.m. Friday, May 31 at 11255 15 Mile Road, Sterling Heights, MI 48312
**INSPIRATION DAYS: 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 28 at Dearborn Heights: 26600 Ann Arbor Trail, Dearborn Heights, MI 48127

** “Inspiration Days” are visits where residents learn about the artists’ paths to becoming professional musicians, hear and watch them demonstrate their instruments and have the opportunity to ask questions.

For more information about the DSO partnership or the current performance schedule, please call (248)203-1800, or visit www.americanhouse.com
or www.dso.org.

An American House Wedding: Love That Lasts

Posted on March 14, 2013 by americanhouse

Forty-two years later, Aaron and Margaret looked just as happy and in love as they did on their original wedding day when they renewed their vows during a surprise ceremony on Valentine’s Day at American House Livonia.

True Love Forever

We are thrilled the American House family was a part of Aaron and Margaret’s beautiful love story. Their fairy-tale romance began after the couple met at a dance a few days before Valentine’s Day in 1971. It truly was love at first sight. And as it turned out, the couple would find a little more meaning in some other holidays as well! The following month, on St. Patrick’s Day, Aaron and Margaret were engaged. When you know, you know — and the couple was married that same year, the day after Christmas.

A Celebration of Love

The vow renewal was a complete surprise to Aaron and Margaret, two of our beloved American House Livonia residents. When Aaron and Margaret were married in 1971, their wedding was a simple affair. They had 35 guests and two people in their bridal party: Margaret’s sister, Alice, and Aaron’s best friend, Jim — who, by the way, was responsible for their meeting, since he is the one who invited Aaron to that memorable dance! This time, Aaron and Margaret had about 40 of their friends and family surrounding them in the lobby of American House Livonia as they pledged their love to each other once again.

An American House Wedding

Margaret’s wedding dress and Aaron’s tuxedo were both donated to them (and didn’t they look dashing in their wedding attire?). Margaret carried a beautiful bouquet of flowers down the aisle, which was lined with rose petals. Red bows adorned the chairs during the ceremony and Aaron wore a lovely red rose boutonniere that perfectly matched the rose accents on their cake. Photos of the couple’s wedding day were on hand and completed the romantic feel at the vow renewal.

Tears of Joy

As Margaret walked down the aisle in her stunning gown, Aaron’s eyes grew wide and the first thing he said was “Wow!” The sermon was touching and heartfelt. Perhaps one of the best parts of the tribute to the couple was when the officiant said that even though they may not be as young as they were 42 years ago — and their wedding bands may have lost a little bit of their luster — it’s evident that Aaron and Margaret’s love for each other has persevered through the years.

At American House, we love being able to share in such wonderful memories with our residents. Call us today at (248) 579-4422 or visit www.americanhouse.com to find out what other memories we’re making here!

iBalance Machines Reduce Risk of Fall for Residents

Posted on March 1, 2013 by americanhouse

At American House, we know improving overall health and wellness is important for our residents. That’s why we are very excited to announce the implementation of several iBalance machines for our residents to use during physical therapy!

The iBalance machines are special training tools that will be used to assess a resident’s risk of falling so physical therapists can then work with the resident in clinics to reduce that falling risk.

“We hope this initiative will make our residents healthier, keep them out of hospitals and reduce their risk of falls,” said Kevin Kieninger, the PR and Communications Coordinator for American House. “Coupled with physical exercise from HC Rehab Solutions and In-Home Rehab, the (iBalance) machines are part of the latest technology that measures where your fall risk is at.”

Beginning March 1, 2013, the iBalance machines will be available in three American House, communities: Sterling I; Dearborn Heights and Farmington Hills. Two of the rehabilitation companies working with American House residents will do therapy on the iBalance machines with patients, in addition to conducting patient clinics about the machine.

In addition, the rehabilitation companies, HC Rehab Solutions and In-Home Rehab, have implemented an initiative to have a custom-designed educational and interactive program surrounding the use of the new iBalance machines.

The following four topics are scheduled to be covered during the next several months at clinics:

A basic balance clinic, with a general balance assessment
Hydration, dehydration and the risk of falling
Senior fitness and staying active
Fall prevention

According to Kevin, the use of the new iBalance machines is part of American House’s health and wellness theme. “We’re hoping these tools will help the rehab companies implement physical exercise with the residents, and we hold up our end of the bargain by providing healthy food options,” he said.

During their physical therapy, residents can stand on the iBalance machine (which looks like a glorified scale, Kevin said) and go through a few movements to determine their ability to balance — and risk of fall. Under the guidance of a physical therapist, residents will lean in one direction and then have to reach over in another direction, all while the machine is calculating those movements. A risk factor number is created, and then the physical therapist can determine the best path to take to reduce that risk. The testing is then followed up by the physical therapist who will work to see measurable change.

To find out more about our health and wellness programs at American House’s, call us today at (248) 579-4422 or visit www.americanhouse.com.

Tips to Ease the Transition into a Senior Living Community

Posted on February 27, 2013 by americanhouse

We are pleased to share that American House Senior Living Communities has been featured as a guest blogger on New Lifestyles.

Please check out our latest post for their blog, “Tips to Ease the Transition into a Senior Living Community.”

Skype for Seniors Comes to American House

Posted on February 1, 2013 by americanhouse

It can be hard when the kids and grandkids move away and you can’t see them as often as you’d like, right? Luckily, technology is making it easy to chat face-to-face with far-flung loved ones! If you haven’t heard about Skype, you’re not alone — but at American House, we’re out to change that, thanks to the help of Tony and David at 50 Plus Prime.

Skype is an easy online program for people to make video calls for FREE to anywhere in the world! It’s FREE to open a Skype account and FREE to make video and voice calls to anyone else on Skype (and FREE to use the Skype instant messaging and file sharing systems, too!). We think Skype is such a fantastic way to stay connected — especially for senior citizens — that we’re teaching some of our residents how to use Skype.

50 PLUS PRIME AND DEVIN SCILLIAN TEACHES SKYPE AT AMERICAN HOUSE

Devin Scillian, news anchor for WDIV Local 4 in metro Detroit, in January 2013 had a big part in helping some of our residents try their hand at making video calls on Skype. Devin, Tony, and David were able to show the residents just how easy to is to make video calls.

Residents at American House Troy Senior Living used the computers for a session on Skype for Seniors. They took turns setting up accounts on computers and Devin Scillian, who already has a Skype account, talked to the residents via Skype on their computers!

“It was great to hear some of the residents share their questions and connect with Devin Scillian,” explained Debbie Smith, Executive Director at American House Troy. “I’ve watched Devin anchor the news since he came to Detroit, so it was a treat for me as well!”

Before he worked with the American House residents, Devin Scillian talked excitedly about the project on Paul W. Smith’s program on WJR 760 AM. He said Skype seems to be tailor-made for senior citizens — and we have to agree.

“It’s a really cost-effective, easy way to connect with not just grandkids, great-grandkids and your children, but also other seniors and your old friends from all over the country — wherever they may be,” Devin Scillian said.

To listen to the podcast of the program, click here.

We’re thankful to Devin Scillian and 50 Plus Prime for Skyping with our residents and we are currently working on setting up more opportunities for all our residents to learn how to Skype.

HOW TO SKYPE

If you’d like to learn how to use Skype, here are the basics:

All you need to be able to Skype is a computer — OR Smartphone, tablet or television — with a microphone and speakers, and a webcam for video chats (If you’re using a computer that doesn’t have a webcam already installed, you can purchase one separately and just plug it into the computer.).
Once you’re online, go to Skype.com and register for a FREE account. You’ll need to give your name (and other information) so your friends and family can look you up. It’s a fairly quick and easy process and then you’ll be set to make Skype calls.
Once you’re logged into your account, use the search function under “Add a contact” to find friends and family with Skype accounts and add them to your contacts list.
If you don’t see the person you’re searching for, give them a call on the phone and help them set up their own FREE Skype account, too!
Once you’ve created a list of contacts that are on Skype, check to make sure the person you want to Skype is online — there will be a symbol next to their name to let you know if they’re available.
Click on their name, then click “video call” and start Skyping!

To find out more about what other fun activities we’re offering for our residents at American House, call us today at (248) 579-4422 or visit www.americanhouse.com.

American House and Detroit Symphony Orchestra Expand Partnership Into 2013

Posted on January 25, 2013 by americanhouse

Partnership to bring world-class musicians to over 20 American House communities

DETROIT – The Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) and American House Senior Living Communities have announced plans to deepen their partnership, which will bring individual musicians and small ensembles from the orchestra to engage with residents at over 20 American House locations in the metro Detroit area throughout 2013. An extremely broad geographic area will be served, spanning Roseville to Westland and Riverview to Pontiac.

In the fall of 2011, the DSO launched its Neighborhood Residency Initiative (NRI), comprised of orchestra concerts, chamber music, educational and social service partnerships, and senior engagement programs focused in and around six metro Detroit communities: Beverly Hills, Bloomfield Hills, Dearborn, Grosse Pointe, Southfield, and West Bloomfield. In early 2012, a series of customized small ensemble performances were piloted at three American House locations in these communities. In 2013 over 20 of these concerts will be presented in and around these areas.

In addition to providing an intimate musical experience for American House residents, a growing body of research has concluded that music has therapeutic effects on older adults, including: strengthened memory and cognitive function, chronic pain management, improvement in mood, and overall improvement in quality of life.

“We’re committed to enriching the lives of our senior citizens throughout the area,” said Rob Gillette, Chief Operating Officer of American House. “Countless studies have shown the benefits of both music and a rich social life in older adults. We are confident this partnership will prove beneficial for both our seniors and the DSO musicians themselves.”

This partnership is a collaborative initiative of the DSO’s Neighborhood Residency Initiative, and American House’s own life enrichment program, which is a holistic combination of rich experiences as wellness, including group outings, community exercises, and healthy food options. Music initiatives are becoming an increasing part of the culture at American House. In addition to this partnership, residents of American House formed a traveling choir in mid 2012, led by conductor Daniel Greig.

“At American House residences, we are able to deeply engage with music lovers that are unable to travel to performances,” said Kareem George, Detroit Symphony Orchestra Managing Director of Community Programs. “Our musicians are making personal connections with former decades-long subscribers as well as seniors new to classical music. We are so thankful to American House Senior Living Communities for this opportunity to provide a special service to our seniors.”

In addition to the tailored small ensemble performances, DSO musicians will present “Inspiration Days,” in which American House residents will learn more about these artists’ paths to becoming professional musicians, hear and watch them demonstrate their instruments, and have the opportunity to ask questions.

These programs will span across over 20 metro Detroit area American Houses, where the aim is to reach over 1,000 senior citizens and their families. The majority of these audiences would not otherwise be able to experience live classical music performances.

For more information about the partnership or current performance schedule, please call 248-203-1800, or visit www.americanhouse.com or www.dso.org.

Founded over 30 years ago, American House Senior Living Communities provides the most rewarding life experiences for each and every resident. The company offers maintenance-free apartment and villa living, restaurant-style dining, activities, education, wellness, transportation, housekeeping, and third party medical and personal care services. By combining the independence seniors and their families want with the assistance they may need, American House has helped thousands transition into the next phase of their lives with ease. For more information, please visit www.americanhouse.com or call (248) 203-1800.

The internationally acclaimed Detroit Symphony Orchestra, which celebrated its 125th anniversary in December 2012, is known for trailblazing performances, visionary maestros, collaborations with the world’s foremost musical artists, and an unwavering commitment to Detroit. Esteemed conductor Leonard Slatkin, called “America’s Music Director” by the Los Angeles Times, became the 12th Music Director of the DSO during the 2008-09 season and acclaimed conductor, arranger, and trumpeter Jeff Tyzik was appointed Principal Pops Conductor in November 2012. The DSO’s performance schedule includes Classical, Pops, Jazz, Young People’s, Neighborhood concerts, and collaborations with chart-topping musicians from Smokey Robinson to Kid Rock. A commitment to broadcast innovation began in 1922 when the DSO became the first orchestra in the world to present a radio broadcast and continues today with the free Live from Orchestra Hall webcast series. Making its home at historic Orchestra Hall at the Max M. Fisher Music Center, one of America’s most acoustically perfect concert halls, the DSO actively pursues a mission to impact and serve the community through music. For more information visit dso.org or download the free DSO to GO mobile app.

5 Important Steps to Find the Best Assisted Living Community

Posted on January 14, 2013 by americanhouse

All homes are not the same and all assisted living communities are not the same, either: They each offer their own specialized care options and varied levels of care. At American House, we know choosing the right assisted living community for you or your loved one can be a daunting process — but we’d like to make things easier.

When searching for the best assisted living community, we urge you to take the following five steps:

1. SPRING A SURPRISE VISIT

Do some research and find a few assisted living communities to check out. Ask for recommendations from friends, family and co-workers. Once you’ve scoped out a few communities online or by phone, gathering information on prices, services and amenities, you can also visit their Facebook pages to see what others have to say.

Don’t forget to read online reviews as well. You can read some reviews from American House residents here and here.

Then, to really get a feel for the community, ask if you can make an unannounced visit or schedule a tour. Stay for a meal in the dining room to taste the quality of the food and see what the everyday dining experience is like. Pay attention to cleanliness, how the staff interacts with residents and whether residents appear relaxed.

At American House, we’d love to have you stop by anytime! When you schedule a tour, you can enjoy our delicious apple pie as you dine with residents.

2. ASK IMPORTANT QUESTIONS

Arrive armed with a list of questions and don’t be afraid to demand answers! Ask if the community is licensed to do business as an assisted care center — and follow up with the state health department to confirm. Another important question to ask is whether there is security in the community.

Find out if there is a doctor on site or if you can receive care from your current provider. Ask if on-site physical, speech and occupational therapists are available — and if not, if transportation to your particular specialist is provided.

At American House, we know that figuring out what to ask can be overwhelming, so we’ve compiled a list of the Top 16 Tips for Choosing a Senior Living Community, along with the Top 10 Principles to Look for When Choosing a Senior Living Community.

3. FIND OUT ABOUT HIDDEN FEES

Some services offered by assisted living facilities are not apparent upfront, and fees related to such care are not always covered by services like Medicare or Medicaid. Long-term care insurance will often reimburse for assisted care, but you’ll have to check the terms of your policy.

Find out what exactly is included in your rate: Charges for medications given per day; admission or community fees; a la carte fees; rate raises. Use our list of the Top 16 Tips for Choosing a Senior Living Community to help guide your questions about hidden fees.

At American House, we offer varying services and would love the opportunity to talk to you about options.

4. ASK ABOUT TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

According to the Fox Business article, Nancy Thompson — a spokeswoman for AARP — said many seniors overlook the importance of transportation when comparing assisted living communities.

While some communities have their own vans to transport residents to weekly trips and social outings, some charge extra for other trips — so ask what is included. At American House, we offer personal and scheduled transportation — including trips to malls, banks, grocery stores and pharmacies, along with trips to senior centers, museums and other group outings.

5. DOES THE COMMUNITY MEET YOUR NEEDS

Each person wants and requires different amenities — and with their assisted living communities. You may need specialized care, certain kinds of medical attention, plenty of socialization options or other preferences for your new home.

The best way to find out if a community fits your specific needs is to investigate several of them before deciding. That way, you can feel confident you made the best decision and move forward with getting comfortable in your new home!

To find out more about becoming a resident at American House, call us today at (248) 579-4422 or visit www.americanhouse.com.

American House Choir performs Christmas carols all around town

Posted on January 3, 2013 by americanhouse

“Deck the halls with boughs of holly, fa-la-la-la-la, la la la la.” Admit it: You started singing along in your head, didn’t you? There’s just something about music that makes people smile — it doesn’t matter if you are making it or listening it.

Our American House Choir, comprised of all American House residents who love to sing, was thrilled to showcase its talent and go on a seven-stop Christmas Carols Tour throughout metro Detroit in December. The choir sang everyone’s favorite carols in hopes of spreading some cheer and bringing smiles to many people of all ages.

One of the highlights of the American House Choir’s Christmas Carols Tour was a stop at Children’s Hospital in Detroit. The children and staff were so excited to listen to the cheery tunes float down the hallways and it made our residents happy to be able to bring a little bit of the Christmas spirit to them.

Other stops included performances at Henry Ford Cottage Hospital in Grosse Pointe Farms; the Auburn Hills Community Center in Auburn Hills; the Macomb County Senior Services building in Mount Clemens; the Livonia Civic Center and the Livonia Senior Center in Livonia and Deerfield Elementary School in Rochester Hills.

Our American House Choir debuted earlier in 2012 and has already performed for residents on several occasions, including Veteran’s Day and 9/11. This was the choir’s first tour around town and we are very excited and proud of the accomplishments of our choir! You can watch some of their performances (and other American House videos) here.

Don’t forget you can follow us on Facebook to keep up with all our events and have a chance to see the American House Choir perform.

At American House, we offer a variety of activities for our residents to showcase their talents and passions. To find out more about becoming a resident at American House, call us today at (248) 579-4422 or visit www.americanhouse.com.