10 months ago
·
admin
Preparing financially is one of the most important parts of moving to a senior retirement community. Before you go and tour a new residence, you need to make sure you have reviewed your financial situation. Asking for help and assistance from your family members and/or Accountant is always a good idea when budgeting your finances.
1.Organize your finances
Organization is the key to success. Having a system to track your finances and budget is necessary. This way you can track how much you spend on a weekly or monthly basis and how much you can save.
Having organization planning apps such as “You Need A Budget” can be a great tool and a great resource to monitor all your expenses. However, being tech savvy can sometimes be a challenge. One of the easiest technology investments is a simple spreadsheet in excel. It is the easiest way to track your budget.
For those who prefer the old school method of using a pen and paper, investing in a good financial planner or organization diarie is a great idea. These planners and diaries have different columns that can be filled and used whenever needed.
2. Budget closely and track expenses
The most important foundation is to budget closely and make a note of everything money is being spent on even if it’s an unexpected expense. The key is to be realistic with your budget and plan it carefully.
Before the month starts, make a budget plan and write all the essentials that are needed by you and how much is spent on them. And then write any extra expenses that you may incur in the entire month. Once you have made a budget, now limit your expenses to see how much you can save in a month.
Monitoring your budget before moving into a retirement home is essential as a failure to do so can lead to unexpected expenses exceeding your set budget.
3. Rate changes
Always plan for rate changes. Always make sure to make a note of the rate changes that may happen over time. If you buy a toothbrush regularly for $7.99 and once found it on sale for $6.99, write that down in your savings and make a note of the rate changes that can happen with this product.
Make a list of items that can be expensive in the near future such as medical care and medications. Another important thing to look at is how the cost of assistance can change over time. It is hard to predict but with time more assistance may be needed to carry out tasks and therefore an increased amount may be needed.
4. Examine your previous expenses
While you are budgeting your expenses it may be possible that you have only recorded costs for this month. However the process of planning your finances is not this easy, it needs to be done over time. Make sure to start budgeting and listing down expenses 6 months prior to your moving plans. This way you can examine all your previous expenses along with your current ones to put together an accurate budget. Also, while budgeting for 6 months you will be able to notice patterns that you may have otherwise missed.
5. Emergency funds
Having emergency funds is one of the most important needs when budgeting your finances. You need to see how much you have in your savings, how much you receive from your pensions or any other government benefits and if any of your family members would assist you in the event of an emergency. Planning this is essential, because although your budgeting may be enough for your monthly expenses it may not be enough for an emergency, which makes having a plan largely beneficial.
6. Set goals for the future
It is always essential to set goals for the future when you make the decision to move to a senior living residence. It is good to compile a list of expenses that you would be needing money for. However, the fees paid to a retirement home usually covers nursing, meal plans, medical care assistance, housekeeping and laundry.
Read more
0
10 months ago
·
admin
After a certain age you might be thinking of moving in with your children because you might be feeling lonely and isolated at home and living with your children may sound like the best plan. Thinking of independent living may mean living alone for you which is wrong.
However, living dependently is different and much better than you can think. In today’s blog by Wiarton Retirement Residence, we have listed five reasons as to why independent living does not mean living alone.
1. You can meet the same kind of people
At an independent living home you get to meet new people at all times and most of them have the same problems as you have. The reason that they might have moved to independent living may be the same as yours. They might be feeling lonely too or would not have been able to take care of themselves.
Their health issues would be the same as yours such as forgetting the laundry in the machine or not remembering to lock the doors.
When at an independent living home, you can have more people around that you can relate to. You would have more things in common with the people at independent senior living, therefore having more to talk about. Also, in an independent senior living home you have easy access to assistance that you would not have at home on your own.
2. Group activities
At an independent living home various group activities are carried out throughout the week. Board games are everyone’s best friend and the best way to beat boredom. Moreover, many activities are hosted by the community such as ice-cream parlour days, carnivals, themed dinners and all special holidays are celebrated.
We at Wiarton Retirement Residence know that you might feel lonely which is why we host dinners, carnivals and birthdays at all times to make sure no one is bored and that you always have something to look forward to.
3. You have your space and freedom
There might be days when you just want your space. At an independent senior living home you have the advantage of having your freedom and space whenever you want. You can sit in your own room and enjoy your favorite book, watch a movie by yourself or video chat with your family.
4. Freedom to socialize
Being in your home alone can be depressing and/or isolating. While living with your children can cause you to feel like a burden on them. However, when you live in an independent living community you have the freedom to socialize with everyone and have someone to talk to all the time. You have many opportunities to interact with individuals, whether staff or fellow residents.
At Wiarton Retirement Residence we keep a tight knit community. Therefore, making friendly and strong relationships easier. In such a community you do not feel isolated or lonely but instead feel joy and inclusion.
5. Safe during COVID-19
Many families have been scared and have one question in mind; is an independent living community safe for our elders? The answer is yes. All independent living homes such as Wiarton Retirement Residence are equipped with all safety measures. At WRR we have socially distant tables to ensure your safety. Only single occupancy rooms are available so that if anyone is to feel sick they can self-isolate safely and still be provided with all the support and care that they need.
All our staff are screened before they come to work and are required to wear a medical mask at all times. We believe your safety is the most important thing.
Read more
0
10 months ago
·
admin
Moving into senior living is a major decision. It requires a great deal of planning and preparation. Before you step into a different chapter, you may have a lot of unanswered questions in mind but here are some answers that will guide your thoughts before moving into retirement living.
Here are the top questions that you might have before moving in.
1. Is there a right age to move in?
The choice to move into a senior living community is personal, with different factors affecting each decision. If you’re considering a move to a retirement community, we recommend planning ahead and taking the time to think about where you want to live. Although transitioning to a retirement community is an individual experience, the average age in a senior living community is 84. Many senior living communities have residents much younger than that; however, most seniors choose to move in between 75 and 84.
Here at Wiarton Retirement Residence admits residents from all ages, be it 50 or 70 because we know every individual has different demands and a different requirement. If you are a younger senior who needs a senior living option, your lifestyle can be suitable for an independent living such as the living style with us
2. Will fitness be a problem?
This is an important question to ask when deciding your move to a senior living. Often many senior living communities offer various ways to keep you active and on track with your health. Some may have fitness rooms, a few communities may have pools and some may just encourage a natural way to keep yourself active at all times such as going for a walk. We encourage our residents to walk around the beautiful downtown that is just a few minutes away and explore as much as they can. Walking around can keep them healthier. Moreover, senior living communities hold fitness classes for seniors to ensure their health and wellbeing. Fitness is never a problem when living in a senior living community. Health is always the number one priority for us.
3. Do I need extra help with essentials such as bathing?
Knowing your needs is very important and thus, knowing that you may need extra help is a great way to narrow down your choices for your senior living community. You may need help with essentials such as bathing, dressing, toilet needs and much more which is why independent living communities offer a wide range of packages for such extra essentials. For example, we offer options to live at the lower level if you can not climb stairs, and special care can be provided when needed such as a nurse at all times at an extra cost.
4. Would socializing be a problem?
We understand that you may be feeling lonely which is why you want to make this new transition in your life. However, when living in a senior living community, socializing is never an obstacle in an independent living community. We all understand that you need to meet new people that you can relate to and thus, it is essential for us to make sure that all our residents are happy which is why activities are organized on a regular basis. With activities happening frequently, it becomes easier for individuals to talk to each other and find out about each other’s interests. There is always an opportunity to learn more during these activities.
5. What location should I choose?
All our residents chose our residence because of its beautiful location and affordability. Another question that rises from location is if you will have to move to another location in the community if your needs change. The answer depends on the senior living you choose. Our Residence remains a safe place that is always equipped with all the necessary equipment to handle any emergency and all your health needs so that you can live in your comfort.
6. Will I be provided with meals?
Many seniors believe that moving into a senior living will help with their daily chores, especially meal planning. It is hard to make sure that you are eating the right thing to ensure your health. Moreover, many seniors while calculating costs believe that an independent living can be very costly. However, independent living includes many amenities such as meals. All meals are provided to our seniors according to their dietary restrictions and to make sure they are healthy at all times so say goodbye to the long hours spent in front of the stove preparing a meal. Our dining rooms are socially distant and provide healthy meals that are also delicious. Moreover, with the three meals a day, three snacks are provided to the seniors as well with 24 hour access to tea and coffee.
7.Will I have my privacy?
All doors are secured at night. There is professional staff in the residence 24 hours a day and they are available to check in on you to ensure your security. As soon as you need them, they are only a phone call away. To protect your privacy and ensure security, we at Wiarton Retirement Residence do not give out your suite or phone number.
8.What utilities are included in the cost?
Every residence works differently. However, most of the residences including us at Wiarton Retirement Residence provide the following:
- Housekeeping and maintenance
- Fitness activities
- Group activities
- Dining
- Utilities and home costs
- Full time staff dedicated to medical care
- Game nights
- Field trips
- Special diet considerations.
If you wish to add any service most of the residences just let our staff know.
Read more
0
11 months ago
·
admin
Downsizing requires special attention and work. This is a special task for seniors. Having a check-list is a necessity while downsizing before moving into your new home at a senior living. For this emotional task, we have compiled important tips for downsizing when moving to senior living.
1. Start early
The process of compiling things and downsizing is overwhelming and may take more time than usual. This is why it is essential to start this process earlier than later so that you can give yourself time when you feel swamped by all the emotions.
Starting early can give you more time to process the emotions and can help you make better decisions on how the downsizing should work. It will give you a chance to spend time with every item in the household such as old photos, clothes that bring memories or your living space where you have spent all your time.
2. Make a plan
In advance, see what days you will have more time, and make those days available for the productive and busier tasks such as emptying the kitchen. Plan in advance of your moving date and create deadlines for yourself so that you can keep track of your time.
Make a list of the items that will be needed and the items that will not. Make a list of the things that can be donated or that someone might want. Make a list of the items that you want to take along and make a mind-map as to where you will place them in your new room.
3. Start with non-emotional belongings
Starting with emotional belongings can be hard. It can bring back memories which can make the process of downsizing hard and tough. It is easier if you start with items that do not have emotional value to it.
First determine if you need it or not, typically most non-emotional items are not needed and can be donated or given away.
4. Visit the new home frequently
Planning for your new space is essential so make sure you plan a few visits prior to your move in date. Get dimensions of your new space and see what items will fit where. You do not want to make the mistake of taking items that will not fit. Ask the new senior living community what items you can bring along.
Going to your new home will help you visualize where you want to put your items and how they will look. Moreover, it will give you a sense of belongingness to the new place.
5. Make ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ piles only
Avoid making ‘maybe’ piles. This will only prolong your process and create a hindrance. Make clear piles and put things into these piles. Make donate, give away and ‘No’ piles everyday. It is easier to let go of things slowly than suddenly all at once.
Once you have visited the new home a few times, you will know what items to definitely get rid of such as your cooking utensils. It will definitely be hard to let go of these items but, if you complete the downsizing on your deadline, it will be easier to work through.
6. What is the purpose of every item?
This question should be asked before putting any item in the ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ pile. You should know what the purpose was and if you will have that purpose in your senior living community or not.
For example the purpose of cooking utensils is to make food, however, you will not be cooking once you have moved in. Thus, there is no need for these items so they can go in the ‘No’ pile.
Another way to ask the same question is to ask “does this item bring me joy?”. This question should be asked for the items in the ‘Yes’ pile only to bring a sense of clarity to what item will or will not be needed.
7. Maintain positivity
Moving into a new house can quickly become overburden sometimes. Maintaining a positive attitude is important and crucial to the process. Asking a loved one’s help and talking to them regularly can help you remain positive through the process. You need to focus on the new home and how it will bring you joy and new friendships. Think about what will be vital to you in the next 5 years. This makes the process easier because you need peace of mind and comfort in the next 5 years, which will come from moving into a senior living community.
8. Stick to deadlines
Lastly, stick to deadlines. This is why starting early is important. Whatever is laid out in the planning, stick to it and work through it. Delaying the process will only create a difficult road ahead for you.
Read more
0
11 months ago
·
admin
When you were young, your parents may have had “the talk” with you. Well, there is a different “talk” to be had when your parents or other aging loved ones appear to need more help with daily living. And this talk can be just as awkward and difficult – maybe more so. No one likes admitting that they can’t do the simple tasks, like laundry or driving or shopping, that they have been doing their entire life. And most never want to leave the home they have lived in and raised a family in. Those thoughts are more than difficult – in fact, they can be frightening.
Here are some tips to make the conversation a bit easier.
Talk to Siblings First
If you have brothers or sisters, be sure you all agree that it’s time to have the senior care discussion. Settle any disagreements before you talk to your loved one. If you can’t agree, SeniorLiving.org suggests you contact a social worker or elder care specialist to help you all resolve your issues. A united front is important to soothe your loved one’s objections.
Have the Talk Sooner, Rather Than Later
Don’t wait for a medical or other emergency to force you to address the issue. It’s much harder to make good decisions in a moment of crisis. Procrastination is not helpful because you never know when an aging loved one may need help. This also lets the elder be an active part of the discussion. “Take an ‘us’ point of view, we are in this together,” says Maria Hood, director of admissions at United Hebrew of New Rochelle, a continuing care campus in Westchester County, New York. “We are a family. You raised me, now it’s my turn to help you.”
If your loved one isn’t ready, don’t push it. Suggest that you revisit the topic on a regular basis – say, every six months – just to check in with them and see if their views have changed. “Approach your loved one with respect, and if the person is not ready, you have to back it off,” Hood says. “Chances are, this won’t be one conversation. It will be several over time. And that’s OK.”
Know the Various Senior Living Options
There are different senior living options, including an assisted living facility, nursing home and continuing care campus. Your loved one may need minimal assistance at first – maybe a part-time home health aide – but more daily help or even skilled medical care later in life. Be well-versed on what each option can and cannot offer, and which might be best for your loved one. Consider gathering brochures or other marketing materials to show examples in your area that might appeal to them.
Focus on the Positives
Highlight the positives of a potential move to senior living rather than focusing on any negatives. “Don’t make the conversation about their limitations,” Mastronardi says. “That will only remind someone they were once vital and energetic but now seeing limitations. Those are very difficult things to come to grips with. Make the conversation about possibilities and supportiveness.”
In other words, don’t stress what your loved one can’t do anymore: “Mom, you shouldn’t drive. Dad, you can’t climb a ladder anymore.” Instead, present senior living as something that makes their life better. No more shoveling snow. Meals available when you don’t feel like cooking. The security of on-site health care if and when you need it. If they object, be understanding. Remember, no one likes to admit their limitations “It’s important for people to retain autonomy. They have the right to say no,” Hood says.
Ask the Experts for Help
“When a family member calls me and says, ‘I don’t know anything,’ I say, ‘Of course you don’t. That’s OK. That’s what I’m here for,” Hood says. Call your local elder care facilities and ask for advice. Or turn to national organizations like AARP, the National Council on Aging, SeniorLiving.org, APlaceforMom.com or your loved one’s physicians. “This way, you are not doing it alone. You have experts supporting you through this process,” Hood says
Source: https://health.usnews.com/
Read more
0
3 years ago
·
admin
COVID-19, also commonly known as the “Novel Coronavirus” hit the world in 2019, leaving everyone uncertain about how the world would operate. It has brought in many changes since it has taken a place in the world. We have to meet our loved ones virtually, we cannot travel, the shopping system has been moved to online, meetings are done in a socially distant manner, and if you live in another country, you probably have not met your loved ones in a year.
However, as time progresses, we now know more about the virus. We have been more informed and cautious as to how we can prevent the contraction of the virus. As months have passed, we now know what causes the virus. After the virus has been a part of our lives for more than a year, we now know how to keep everyone safe and what guidelines to follow.
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is a virus caused by a new coronavirus called “SARS-CoV-2”, causing respiratory symptoms such as runny nose, sore throat, headache, fever, dry cough, and fatigue. These are the most common symptoms in an individual.
Researchers believe that the virus started from bats however no one is sure of it and no one knows how it spread to the world and what the path was. The transfer of the virus from one human to another human is unfortunately very easy. It can spread through droplets that are generated from a human’s sneeze or cough and it can spread through a touch from a person who has the virus, or a person who has been contracted with the virus and has touched a surface.
How should we keep ourselves safe?
We understand that remaining calm during a pandemic is not easy. However, being calm is the biggest solution during such times. With the rising cases in every province and city, we all require extra safety measures which we at Wiarton Retirement Residence always make sure to follow.The best way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 virus and to make sure you and your loved ones are safe, is to follow the guidelines that have been recommended.
The most basic guidelines provided that should be followed are the following:
1- Always wear a mask when meeting someone or when you are in a public space. The mask should cover your mouth and nose.
2- Wash your hands regularly with soap for 20 seconds especially after touching a surface or after you believe that you may have had contact with anyone with a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19. If washing is not possible then sanitize your hands.
3- Avoid touching your nose, eyes, mouth, or ears. COVID-19 spreads through these contact points.
4- If you must sneeze or cough, use your elbow and not your hands.
5- Do not go out if it is not necessary. Only essential trips should be done.
What is happening at Wiarton Retirement Residence during the pandemic to keep your loved ones safe?
For us at Wiarton Retirement Residence our community is very important. Therefore we at Wiarton Retirement Residence follow all rules and regulations to make sure our community and residents are safe at all times while taking heightened precautionary measures. We at Wiarton Retirement Residence abide by all provincial and federal government laws and regulations. These rules and regulations including the following;
1- Our residents are permitted to go out and make their essential trips such as for grocery, medical appointments or to go for a walk.
2- Physical distancing is always implemented.
3- Universal masking rules and regulations are followed.
4- Visitors are screened before coming in, however no visitors are allowed during the province lockdown.
5- Appropriate personal protective equipment is used.
6- Deep cleaning and sanitization is always followed.
We encourage virtual meetings only and do not do in-person meetings to ensure the safety of our residents. All our employees are screened on a regular basis and thus, to minimize the risk of COVID-19 there is always bare minimum movement between our employees. Tours are available on an appointment basis, however we at Wiarton Retirement Residence have a virtual tour available now which can be viewed at any now (click here for virtual tour). With this measure you will be at home, safe and can watch the residence.
Strict measures are to be taken if there is an outbreak, that is, no one is allowed to come in the residence (non-essential) or go anywhere to ensure the safety of our residents and community, while providing with full assistance to our residents and ensuring that quarantine is safe and comfortable for our residents. However, to date we have been very fortunate as there has been a low volume of cases reported in Grey Bruce Peninsula. Moreover, no cases have been reported at our residence thus making Wiarton Retirement Residence an extremely safe and reliable residence for your loved ones!
We understand that the virus is deadly for seniors, however we also understand that seniors require special care and assistance which we provide at Wiarton Retirement Residence. Our residents are still accessing 100% care and medical assistance which would be complex at their own place if they live alone.
Even with minimum contact between employees and residents, residents still have access to 3 meals a day and 3 snacks, assistance, and housekeeping as well as activities to keep them busy.
Seniors can be susceptible to feelings of loneliness and isolation thus, to ensure that our residents feel happy and engaged at all times we at Wiarton Retirement Residence are always planning different activities for our seniors, we always make every residents birthday a joyful one and we make sure to celebrate all special holidays, while implementing all necessary COVID-19 regulations. To find out about regular updates please click here.
Tips to get through the pandemic
Lastly, we decided to share some tips that we practice with our residents here at Wiarton Retirement Residence to help them get through the anxiety of COVID-19.
- Stay socially active
While maintaining social distancing we are still allowed to meet people. We can meet people in a park or in our car parking spaces while ensuring social/physical distancing. This is important for one’s mental health. However, during the lockdown, we should regularly call our friends and family and have updates about their life so that we still feel like a part of their lives and vice versa. To see more tips on how to remain socially active read this article.
- Be physically active
Going for walks, exercising and being active is very important. It helps one stay active mentally and physically and helps one get a break from the daily routine at home. It is a break from the new normal.
- Meditate
It is recommended to meditate. Everyone meditates differently. You could listen to music or talk to a loved one about what you’re feeling to receive support. Take breaks from COVID-19 news and read a book or play a game.
- Self-care
It is recommended to follow a routine. Sleep at the same time every day and wake up at the same time. Shower every day. Have breakfast and get to your daily activities.
- Be kind
It is a hard time for everyone. Be kind to everyone. Help others and get involved in different activities virtually.
- Reach out for virtual counselling
If you feel anxious about anything, reach out to your doctor and get a virtual counsellor to receive extra support.
We understand that this pandemic is hard and complex for everyone however, if we all take care of ourselves and our community, we believe that this time shall pass soon. During such a time we need to have daily updates from our loved ones and see how they are doing at home and be updated about everyone. We believe that soon we all will have access to the vaccination and then in no time we all can go back to our old normal days until then, let’s be a responsible citizen, friend and a community member.
Read more
0
