Category: High Ridge

Dementia, a collective term for cognitive disorders affecting memory, thinking, and daily functioning, comes in various forms and subtypes. As our population ages, the prevalence of this condition is on the rise, making it crucial to understand and address the nuances of each subtype.

One particularly perplexing subtype is mixed dementia, which presents a unique challenge for patients and healthcare professionals because of its diverse origins. Recognizing the need to demystify this condition is the first step toward providing better care and support for those affected, and we’re here to help.

What Is Mixed Dementia?

Mixed dementia is a condition where an individual exhibits symptoms of more than one type of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia, and sometimes other forms.

Vascular disease, specifically high blood pressure, plays a significant role in the development and progression of this condition.

Common Types of Mixed Dementia

Several types of this condition exist, each causing various symptoms. Below, we’re exploring some of the most common types.

Alzheimer’s Disease and Vascular Dementia

This type includes a mix of Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia. Alzheimer’s disease, which is marked by amyloid plaques and tau tangles, combines with vascular dementia’s impaired blood flow, causing a decline in cognitive function. High blood pressure is a significant risk factor.

Lewy Body Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease

In this combination, Lewy bodies and Alzheimer’s pathology intertwine, resulting in symptoms such as:

• Visual hallucinations
• Limited mobility
• Tremors
• Fluctuating cognitive states

How Is Mixed Dementia Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of these conditions requires a multidisciplinary approach to accurately assess symptoms and differentiate them from other forms. Most often, it is diagnosed through a comprehensive process, including:

• A thorough medical history assessment
• Physical examination
• Cognitive testing
• Neuropsychological assessment
• Brain imaging, including MRI, CT, and PET scans
• Blood tests
• Genetic testing

While advances in diagnostic technologies and clinical assessments have improved the ability to diagnose these conditions during a person’s lifetime, there are still instances where the complexity of the condition or overlapping symptoms may make it challenging to distinguish between different types definitively. Because of this, there are times this condition may not be detected until an autopsy study is completed.

Treatments for Mixed Dementia

Managing this condition involves addressing each form’s specific dementia symptoms and causes. While there is no cure, various treatments and interventions aim to enhance quality of life and slow the condition’s progression.

Medications

Cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine are prescribed to manage cognitive symptoms, especially in cases where vascular and Alzheimer’s components are at play.

Lifestyle Interventions

Lifestyle interventions, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, are crucial for managing risk factors like high blood pressure.

Supportive Therapies for Caregivers

For caregivers dealing with the challenges of this condition, stress management and support groups play a vital role.

Bridges^® Memory Care at Waterstone on High Ridge

Navigating a dementia diagnosis of any kind can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Waterstone on High Ridge is here to help with expert information and the support you need to provide the best care possible for your loved one. Join us for an upcoming event, or reach out to our team to schedule a visit to our Bridges^® memory care residences.

Within our Bridges^® memory care residences, we care for your loved one through every stage, delivering compassionate support and enriching programming. Within our residences, those with memory loss have access to:

• Beautifully designed memory care suites
• 24-hour licensed nursing support
• A highly trained, compassionate memory care team
• Daily routine assistance – including with dressing, eating and socializing
• Three nourishing chef-prepared meals daily
• Stimulating activities to enhance cognitive and physical abilities

Contact us to learn more today.

Choosing gifts for loved ones living with dementia requires a thoughtful approach. Consider their individual abilities, interests and personalities when selecting a gift, and evaluate which may be suitable for the current and future stages of dementia they may face.

Early-Stage Dementia

During the early stages, older adults need gifts that help to stimulate cognitive function and social interaction. Many can still enjoy the gifts they may have once loved, as well.

Middle-Stage Dementia

In the middle stages, gifts should be simple and provide sensory stimulation. Seniors may also still be able to enjoy the same gifts that those in the early stages do, depending on their current abilities.

Late-Stage Dementia

Gifts that provide comfort and well-being are important in late-stage dementia. These can reduce agitation, anxiety and other negative effects caused by Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

Gifts for Dementia Patients

Each of the below gifts is separated by category to make your search and assessment easier. Feel free to try one of our suggestions or be inspired to find your own! Keep in mind that many gifts can be adapted for use through multiple stages of dementia. What matters most is matching your loved one’s needs and preferences.

Cognitive Stimulation

Some gifts can serve to improve cognitive abilities while enhancing the mind. As a loved one advances through the stages of dementia, their cognitive function will lessen, so these gifts can be a great way to engage their brain and challenge them.

Jigsaw Puzzles

Puzzles can help to improve cognitive function, memory, and problem-solving skills. Choose puzzles that are appropriate for your loved one’s skill level, or get one personalized with a favorite photo!

Memory Games and Word Searches

Memory games and word searches can also help to stimulate cognitive function and memory. Be sure to assess difficulty levels and choose games that are appropriate for your loved one’s skill level so the older adult you’re gifting can enjoy your present.

Easy-To-Read Books

Easy-to-read books can provide a sense of enjoyment and relaxation. Consider purchasing your loved one some new large-print books by their favorite author, or buy some of their past favorites.

Musical Instruments or Music Players

Listening to music can be a calming and enjoyable experience for people with dementia. Musical instruments can also provide a creative outlet. Musical instruments that are easy to play, such as a tambourine or maracas, are a great choice.

Art Supplies and Adult Coloring Books

Art can help to reduce stress and anxiety. If arts and crafts are hobbies your loved one would enjoy, this is a great gift idea. Make sure to choose art supplies that are easy to use, such as crayons, markers, and finger paints.

Adult coloring books can provide a creative outlet and help to reduce stress and anxiety. The optimal coloring book is one with simple designs and large spaces.

Sensory Stimulation

Sensory activities can engage various cognitive functions, including attention, memory, and problem-solving. They help keep the brain active and may slow down cognitive decline. It also can evoke positive emotions, reduce anxiety, and promote a sense of well-being in individuals with dementia.

Weighted Blankets

Weighted blankets can provide a sense of calm and security. Purchase a weighted blanket that is an appropriate weight for your loved one.

Aromatherapy Diffusers

Aromatherapy diffusers can help to improve mood and reduce stress. Pick out essential oils that are safe for people with dementia, such as lavender and chamomile.

Fidget Toys

Fidget toys can help to reduce restlessness and anxiety. Choose fidget toys that are easy to use, durable and provide ongoing fun.

Light Therapy Lamps

Light therapy lamps can help to improve mood and reduce sleep problems. Pick one your loved one would enjoy, but ensure the brightness is appropriate for them.

Activities of Daily Living (ADL) Aids

For older adults with memory loss, fostering independence is important. These gifts can help.

Adaptive Clothing

Adaptive clothing is specialized clothing designed to enhance independence in people with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Choose adaptive clothing that is easy to put on and take off to ensure maximum independence.

Specialty Dining Utensils

Utensils designed for people with dementia can help them to eat more independently. If this is a gift your loved one can use, be sure to buy utensils that are easy to grip and use.

Bath and Shower Aids

Bath and shower aids can help people with dementia to bathe and shower more safely. In fact, you’d be surprised just how easy they can be to install and use. Consider your loved one’s needs and purchase the items that would be most helpful to them.

Medical Alert Systems

Medical alert systems provide peace of mind for people with dementia and their caregivers. Choose a medical alert system that is easy to use and provides the features that you need.

Comfort and Well-Being

These cozy gifts are sure to be great gifts for seniors with dementia.

Slippers or Shoes

Slippers or shoes that are easy to put on and take off help people with dementia maintain their independence. Find a cozy option that fits their style.

Massagers

Massagers help to reduce muscle tension and pain and can also promote relaxation. Choose a massager that is easy to use and hold, and consider one that has removable heads for use on various muscles.

Comfort Blankets

Blankets can provide a sense of comfort and security. Pick a blanket that is soft, large and cuddly.

Stuffed Animals

Stuffed animals bring a sense of comfort and companionship while reducing anxiety and agitation in those with Alzheimer’s disease. Pick their favorite animal or grab one that looks like their favorite pet.

Gifts That Promote Connection

When family members spend time with loved ones with dementia, it can bring them a sense of connection, lessening their stress and anxiety. If you’re looking for a great gift idea, these ideas might just be the best of all.

Digital Photo Frames

Digital photo frames can display a slideshow of photographs, which can help to evoke memories and promote conversation. Choose a digital photo frame that is easy to use and has a large display.

Memory Boxes

Memory boxes can be filled with items that have special meaning to your loved one. This can be a great way to help them to connect with their past and their loved ones. Choose a memory box that is sturdy and spacious.

Family Photo Books

Family photo books can be a great way to share memories with your loved one. Make sure to include photographs from different stages of your loved one’s life.

Waterstone on High Ridge Is Here for You

With the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia continuing to grow, we know most people are touched by this disease in some way, and perhaps have a loved one or dear friend with this diagnosis.

At Waterstone on High Ridge, we believe in supporting families and friends who are coping with the challenges of memory loss. Contact us today to learn more about how our Bridges^® Memory Care Program improves the quality of life of those with dementia. Ask about our ongoing educational events and support groups designed to help family caregivers.

The holiday season in Stamford, CT, is headed our way – and it’s a magical time, creating a warm and festive atmosphere that draws residents and visitors alike. Read below for some of our favorite celebrations and activities that seniors can enjoy with their families to contribute to the holiday magic!

Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular

This annual parade features giant helium balloons, marching bands, and character appearances, making it one of the largest helium balloon parades in the country. It typically takes place in November.

Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony at Landmark Square

Stamford kicks off the holiday season with a festive tree lighting ceremony in the heart of downtown Stamford. Attendees can enjoy live music, hot cocoa, and the lighting of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree.

Santa’s Workshop at Stamford Town Center

Bring your children to meet Santa Claus and take photos with him at Stamford Town Center. It’s a magical experience with holiday decorations and a chance to share wish lists with Santa.

Gingerbread House Workshop at Stamford Museum & Nature Center

The Stamford Museum & Nature Center often hosts gingerbread house decorating workshops where participants can create their edible masterpieces.

The Nutcracker Ballet

Enjoy the enchanting performance of “The Nutcracker” by the Connecticut Ballet or other local dance companies at venues like The Palace Theatre.

Mill River Park Ice Skating

Ice skating at Mill River Park’s outdoor rink is a popular winter activity. During the holiday season, the rink may have special holiday-themed events and music.

Holiday Train Show at the Stamford Museum & Nature Center

Explore an elaborate model train display with miniature landscapes and holiday decorations at the Stamford Museum & Nature Center.

Holiday Pops Concert

The Stamford Symphony often hosts a Holiday Pops Concert featuring festive music and guest performers. Check their schedule for details.

Hanukkah Celebrations

Look out for local Hanukkah events and menorah lightings during the Festival of Lights.

New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Stamford hosts various New Year’s Eve parties, including fireworks at Cummings Park and special events at local restaurants and bars.

Stamford Art Association’s Holiday Gift Shop

Visit the Stamford Art Association’s Holiday Gift Shop to find unique, locally crafted gifts and artwork.

Holiday Craft Fairs

Keep an eye out for holiday craft fairs at places like the Jewish Community Center and local churches, where you can shop for handmade gifts and treats. Join us at Waterstone on High Ridge this year for our Holiday Bazaar on November 18.

Please note that event details and dates may change from year to year, so it’s a good idea to check with the respective event organizers or local event listings for the most up-to-date information on these specific holiday activities in Stamford.

Ring in the Season at Waterstone on High Ridge

The holiday season is filled with chances to celebrate with those you love. At Waterstone on High Ridge, we ensure that every holiday and season is special, right here in our community. Call us today to learn more about our engaging lifestyle, distinctive amenities, concierge services and premier residences that can make your holiday truly carefree!

In a previous blog, we discussed Sudden Retirement Syndrome, a term for the mixed emotions that some individuals feel when their reality of retirement doesn’t immediately live up to their expectations. In order to keep SRS at bay or to help banish it if you find yourself experiencing it, part of your retirement plan should be seeking new opportunities to engage your mind and participate in meaningful activities.

The beautiful thing about retirement is that you finally have time to pursue options and interests that you may not have been able to in the past due to work, family or other commitments. We’ve put together a list of 17 different pursuits to pique your interest, focus on what matters to you, and make your golden years the most interesting, vibrant ones yet.

17 Ways to Spend Time in Retirement

3. Improve Your Health

Regular physical activity is essential for helping older adults age well and stay healthy. Now that you aren’t working full time, you have additional opportunities to take exercise classes, pick up a new sport, and spend time getting your blood pumping while having fun, too. Consider joining a club to try new activities and meet new people while staying active.

4. Become a Mentor

Mentoring others, whether you enjoy working with kids, young adults, or professionals, is an excellent way to share your knowledge and make the world a better place. Mentoring can be formal, informal or a mix of both. A few great organizations that offer mentorship opportunities are AmeriCorps and Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. Other places to look include local schools, community organizations, and places of worship.

5. Go Back to School

School isn’t just for  young kids anymore. Many retirees use their free time to take classes to learn new skills like acting, cooking, music, history, gardening, and more. Some seniors choose to earn a degree and start a secondary career doing something that has always interested them. Various community colleges and universities offer specialized programs for seniors that are either low- or no-cost. Other organizations, like Alison, offer free online classes with certifications.

8. Volunteer

Volunteering is a very popular activity for retirees who wish to use their free time to donate to causes that are meaningful to them. Volunteering connects you to like-minded people, helps you stay social, and gives you a sense of purpose. There are countless opportunities for volunteering at both the local and national levels. A good place to start and find opportunities in your area is through Senior Corps, which is focused on connecting people 55+ with worthwhile causes.

9. Join a Book Club

Book clubs are a great opportunity for older adults to make new friends, socialize, think critically, gain new perspectives, or simply read a book that they might not otherwise have selected . Check out your local library to see if there are any clubs that interest you, or ask friends and family if they have a group that would be interested in having a new member.

10. Spend Time with Friends and Family

Many retirees plan on spending more time with family and friends during their golden years. Not only does this give you a chance to build and strengthen those relationships, but social connections also help seniors avoid depression, isolation and loneliness. Find ways to meet up with friends and family on a regular basis, whether it’s for a weekly phone call, family dinner on Sundays or a monthly trip to see your grandkids. You’ll make memories that can be cherished for years to come.

11. Trace Your Family Tree

Learning your family history can be enlightening, interesting and even surprising. Genealogy is easier than ever to trace these days, thanks to sites like Ancestry. You can also document family stories for future generations with online services that allow you to create a family book or by doing an interview for the national StoryCorps project.

12. Become a Tour Guide

Are you interested in sharing your passion about the local area? Becoming a tour guide or docent can be an excellent opportunity  to get out into the community and share your love and knowledge. Maybe you live near a local historic site and can volunteer at the visitor’s center. Or perhaps you’d like to create a walking tour of some offbeat history that occurred in a nearby neighborhood. Check with your local historic buildings and monuments to see how you can play a role.

13. Declutter Your Home

Refresh your home and free up your retirement lifestyle by finally taking the time to go through your house and get rid of things that you don’t want or need. (This can be an excellent jump-start toward  eventually downsizing to a smaller home or a senior living community.) Go through those dusty boxes in the attic and look through the family pieces that you don’t really use but haven’t been able to get rid of yet. You can also gift heirlooms and treasured pieces to your family members so they can enjoy them while you’re around to see it.

14. Play Brain Games

Keeping your brain sharp through Sudoku, logic puzzles, or other brain-teaser games can help stave off memory loss, improve your mood, and potentially even help you avoid cognitive diseases like dementia. Don’t feel like cluttering  your home with hard-copy puzzle books? Download apps to your smartphone or tablet to get endless games that you don’t have to physically store.

15. Find a New Group Activity

Joining a group, whether it’s a crafting group, movie club, pickleball league or tennis group, gets you out of the house, out of your comfort zone, and into the company of others from different generations and backgrounds. Your local Parks and Recreation department is a great place to look for affordable classes and activities that may be of interest to you.

16. Find a New Solo Activity

Being in the company of others has many benefits, but it’s also rewarding to have time all to yourself that you can use to work on a project, activity or interest. Create a must-read list, or set up a studio in your home where you can paint or do woodworking. Bake goodies and donate them to nearby hospitals or hospice homes. Creating something with your own two hands can be incredibly rewarding.

17. Be a Tourist in Your Own Town

Retirement is a great time to visit all the local sites, attractions and festivals taking place in your area that you’ve always heard about but have never visited. Head out to your town’s First Fridays or Third Thursdays to take in live music and local foods, and visit local farmer’s markets to source some homegrown produce. Check out your town’s Chamber of Commerce and calendar of events to learn about activities and events that can be fun for the whole family.

Reinvent Your Retirement at Waterstone on High Ridge

At our elegant senior living community in Stamford, CT, our active and vibrant lifestyle provides so many ways for you to fill your retirement years with meaning, fun and fellowship. Our residents enjoy their own private, maintenance-free apartments that free up their time so they can fill their days how they wish. We invite you to contact us at 203.541.0868 to learn more about our beautiful community and to see how we can help you make the most of your senior living experience.

This year’s awards celebrate the industry’s top people, projects, and programs.

In a time of economic uncertainty, multifamily owners, developers, architects, and builders continue to raise the bar for creating innovative and thoughtful communities that cater to residents’ needs. Our 2023 MFE Awards winners exemplify the tenacity and perseverance happening across the nation.

Out of nearly 240 nominations, the jurors selected 12 grand winners and 11 merit winners. In addition, the jurors selected Atlas at Park & Paseo, the grand winner in the mid-rise category, as the Multifamily Project of the Year. Developed by Alliance Residential and designed by AO, Atlas is the third and final phase of Park & Paseo, a mixed-use development that has transformed an 18-acre industrial site in Santa Ana, California.

As part of the MFE Awards, we also honor indusry leaders who are helping move the industry forward:Executive of the Year Lili Dunn, president and CEO of Bell Partners; and Hall of Fame inductee Harry Bookey, founder of BH.

Read more about what these multifamily leaders are bringing to their companies, their communities, and the industry as a whole as well as what makes our grand winners shine.

Last month, we shared the best healthy foods for your heart. As an active older adult, you may find yourself wondering about the best foods that will provide you with an extra boost of energy.

Maintaining your energy levels as you age will help you keep your physical and mental health in peak condition. So if you’re an older adult finding yourself nodding off while you watch TV or feeling a lot more tired than you did several years ago, you may need to start looking at what you’re putting into your body.

Eating the right types of food will help increase your energy levels, build your endurance, and allow you to continue doing the things you enjoy. As a bonus, most of the energy-boosting foods found below also are excellent at keeping your heart healthy, maintaining your blood sugar levels, increasing muscle and bone strength, and boosting your immune systems.

We’ve put together a list of seven foods that provide seniors with a much-needed energy boost, along with a variety of additional health benefits. You’ll notice that the list includes lean proteins, vegetables, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and other foods that provide vitamins and minerals while helping maintain energy throughout the day.

1. Nuts

Nuts like almonds, walnuts, cashews and pecans are chock-full of healthy fats, proteins and amino acids that strengthen and rebuild muscles. The fiber and carbohydrates found in nuts are digested more slowly than what you find in refined grains, which helps provide a steady supply of energy throughout the day.

            Add more nuts to your diet by topping your salad with nuts instead of croutons, adding a handful to your morning oatmeal, and choosing roasted nuts over potato chips or other empty-calorie snacks.

2. Whole Grains

Skip the white bread and all-purpose flour and choose whole grains like quinoa, whole-wheat bread, oatmeal and barley for a high-fiber hit that provides energy throughout the day, helps regulate cholesterol and blood sugar, and keeps you regular. Some grains are also filled with protein, which is instrumental in maintaining muscle mass (which helps with balance, bone health and overall mobility).

            Add more whole grains to your diet by choosing whole-grain bread over white, eating oatmeal for breakfast, and trying new side dishes like quinoa salad instead of a regular lettuce salad or coleslaw.

4. Low-fat dairy

Low-fat dairy options provide protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins like B12, without the added calories that come from full-fat versions. Unsweetened and Greek yogurt can add oomph to your salad dressing, soups and side dishes without sacrificing taste, and cheese makes pretty much any dish sing!

            Add more low-fat dairy to your diet by using Greek yogurt in place of sour cream or mayonnaise, shred some cheese onto a salad or in your soup, and sip a glass of milk for a midday pick-me-up.

5. Fruits and vegetables

We’ve already mentioned berries, but fruits and vegetables overall are excellent choices for filling your plate (and your stomach) with delicious tastes and energy boosters. Even “sugary” fruits like bananas and grapes provide nutritional boosts such as potassium, vitamin C and fiber. While there are some “smarter” choices such as sweet potatoes; lower sugar fruits; and dark, leafy greens, you really can’t go wrong by choosing these foods as a snack.

            Add more fruits and vegetables to your diet by snacking on an apple or banana, adding a vegetable side dish to dinner, or enjoying a whole orange instead of drinking a glass of orange juice.

6. Beans and lentils

Bean, lentils and legumes are a great source of non-animal protein as well as vitamins and minerals like magnesium, iron, zinc and fiber. They provide a steady boost of energy as your body digests the complex carbohydrates, keeping you energized longer.

            Add more beans and legumes to your diet by adding them to your salads and soups, tossing them into an egg dish for breakfast, and serving them as a side with fish or chicken.