Senior Living Blog by UMH

How to Afford Senior Living When the Money Runs Out

By: Elizabeth Bemis June 7th, 2017

Running out of money is a real possibility for some who have made senior living communities their home. The money runs out for a number of reasons and common among them are: longevity (the average length of stay in assisted living is 2.5 years but many live there significantly longer) increasing rental costs, increasing costs in senior health care services and a need for more assistance with activities of daily living (ADL) than before. There are others, but these situations just mentioned place an immediate draw on private funds.

Is My Parent Ready for Assisted Living?

By: Marissa Salvesen April 3rd, 2017

How can you tell when your loved one is ready for an assisted living community? If only it were as simple as a big, red flag popping up saying “NOW IS THE TIME!” Well, you may not see the big flag but chances are there are lots of little indicators that may have gone unnoticed. If your parent or loved one is having more and more difficulty with everyday activities, such as getting around the house, running errands, showering and dressing, NOW is the time. Helping mom or dad recognize their changing needs and cope with an impending move is important. If your loved one is opposed to or reluctant to make a move, suggest a short-term, trial stay at an assisted living community. They can take a “test drive” but not commit to a permanent move.

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Help Your Aging Loved One GAIN Independence in Senior Living Homes!

By: Elizabeth Bemis July 4th, 2015

As we celebrate the Fourth of July and the freedoms we enjoy as Americans in the traditional way… cookouts, fireworks and perhaps even a day at the beach, take a moment to think about those who may be losing some of their independence. Older adults. Society often views aging as a loss of independence. It is time to look at aging and health care assistance as a way to regain independence.

UMH's 5 Core Values

By: Marissa Salvesen March 13th, 2014

At UMH, our communities and our organization is built upon a firm foundation of five core values. More than just words on a piece of paper, our values are the threads that tie all of our work together and are the basis from which decisions are made and actions are taken.

The Importance of Relationships

By: Marissa Salvesen February 20th, 2014

Our entire lives are built around relationships. Each of us has a sphere of influence within which we maintain relationships with family, close friends, casual friends, co-workers, acquaintances and others. These connections meet essential needs in our lives….the need to feel wanted and loved, the need to feel recognized and valued, and the need to feel supported and cared for.

Massage Therapy Benefits for Seniors

By: Marissa Salvesen October 28th, 2013

Massage therapists are recognized for the invaluable work they do using skilled touch to bring relief to many who suffer from pain - without the need for surgery. In support of this event, assisted living communities are taking this opportunity to educate communities on ways seniors can benefit from massage therapy.

Tip to Touring a Senior Living Community

By: Elizabeth Bemis October 4th, 2013

While making the decision to transition into a senior living community can be difficult for individuals, once the decision to move is made, the next step is finding the perfect community to move in to. Selecting the perfect senior living community can prove to be a bit of a challenge based on specific health care needs and personal preferences for community atmosphere and amenities. The following are 10 categories you should keep in mind when touring senior living communities.

Evaluating the Cost of an Assisted Living Community

By: Marissa Salvesen September 13th, 2013

The final decision on a senior living community that’s right for you will come down to two closing points: 1) quality services and 2) affordable cost. To accurately evaluate an assisted living community, you must be willing to compare these services and costs with your unique needs and financial capability. Working from a cost-benefit angle will help steer you in the right direction.

National Assisted Living Week: Celebrating Community Life!

By: Marissa Salvesen September 9th, 2013

Caring Relationships. Enriching Lives. During the week of September 8th-14th, our United Methodist Homes Assisted Living Communities will be celebrating a very special week with residents, families, and staff. Established by the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) in 1995, National Assisted Living Week® provides a unique opportunity for residents, families, staff, volunteers, and the surrounding community to come together to share with our residents a variety of events and activities that show them how much we care for them.

Celebrating Grandparents Day in Assisted Living Communities!

By: Elizabeth Bemis September 6th, 2013

Grandparents are a very special part of our lives. If you have been fortunate enough to enjoy time with your own grandparents at any point in your life you know that the memories you share with them are priceless! Grandparents have a way of taking the best moments in life and making them even more memorable, whether it be a celebration dinner, a simple gift, a comforting hug, or a story shared. As we turn the pages of our calendars to celebrate National Grandparents Day on Sunday, September 8, 2013, take some time to honor, recognize, and give thanks for the grandparents in your life!

Healthy Aging at United Methodist Homes: Live to be 120!

By: Jim Stinson August 9th, 2013

“May You Live to Be 120!” Written by Guest Blogger, Jim Stinson, Director of Spiritual Life (United Methodist Homes) “May you live to be 120!” This traditional Jewish birthday blessing comes from the book of Genesis (6:3). The Lord said, ‘My spirit shall not abide in mortals forever, for they are flesh; their days shall be one hundred and twenty years.’ There was a time when this wish was at best a metaphor and, at worst, trite and meaningless. The likelihood of living that long is still not reality for most of us, but it is increasingly more within the realm of possibility. We now have centenarians as an ever-growing segment of our population. Is this a good thing? Is it a bad thing? Would you want to live that long?