Category Archives: Senior Living

DID YOU KNOW// NEW YEARS RESOLUTIONS

With the start of the New Year, people have made resolutions to create improvements in their lives through changes in health and habits. The tradition to set resolutions was established thousands of years ago.

Over 4,000 years ago, the Babylonians were the first to record New Year festivities. They held a 12-day festival to mark the agricultural season around the spring equinox. In 46 B.C. in Rome, Julius Caesar introduced the new calendar and marked January 1 as the beginning of the New Year. In the 18th century, Christians would hold mass on New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day. The church service provided a time to reflect on the past year and propose resolutions to start the new year with a fresh beginning.

Today, New Year’s resolutions are a common practice around the world. Over 50% of people will set a goal and only roughly 9% of people will complete their new resolutions. Experts suggest to write down your goal or have a friend encourage you through accountability.    

Below are some ideas to implement as resolutions for the start of 2024.

► Attend a new activity each month to experience all the offerings at Copperfield Hill.

► Sit at a different dining table to meet new friends.

► Attend the morning exercise class offered 4 days a week. Start with even 1 day a week.

► Take a daily walk around the atrium.

► Read a book from the Copperfield Hill library.

Source: https://www.insightvacations.com/blog/new-years-resolutions/

Posted in Activities /Fun Facts /General Information /Senior Living /

ANNOUNCEMENT // Transportation Services

Copperfield Hill has the ability to help get our residents around the town. We have a structured weekly schedule to get our residents to various stops.

We are happy to announce that the wait is over. Our new Bus has officially arrived to our building. The new Bus increases our seating capacity from the previously used Copperfield Hill Van. We are able to transport up to 14 residents at a time with 12 seats and 2 wheelchair spots. The Bus has a lift for us to accommodate all residents.

Transportation Schedule:

Monday – Target, Aldi, Wells Fargo and other shopping locations in Crystal.

Tuesday – Medical Appointments: We can pick-up and drop-off residents to any medical appointment, if the office is within a 15 mile radius from Copperfield Hill.

Wednesday – Shopping Day: Cub, Almsted’s, HyVee, CVS, Walgreens, Huntington Bank, US Bank, Dollar Tree and the Thrift store.

Thursday – Lodge Outings. Varies week to week, check monthly calendar.

Friday – Manor Lunch Outings. Varies week to week, check monthly calendar.

The scheduled van transportation is complimentary to all residents at Copperfield Hill. Residents can sign-up through their building’s Outing Book. In the Manor, the book is located in the Dining Room. In the Lodge, the book is located in the Lobby by the front entry door.

Posted in About Us /Activities /Community Amenities /Senior Living /

ASK THE EXPERT // TORNADO/SEVERE WEATHER EMERGENCY

As Spring brings the very welcome warmer weather, it also brings an increased risk of severe weather.  Copperfield Hill has policies and procedures in place to ensure resident and staff safety in the event of severe weather.  These policies and procedures can be found in your Resident Handbook. We strongly encourage you to read and review these so you are ready to go in the event of severe weather. 

When there is a dramatic change in the weather conditions including: Dark skies, windy conditions, rapid drop in temperature TORNADOS MAY DEVELOP.

Severe Weather/Tornado WATCH means that there are conditions that are favorable to severe weather or a tornado developing.

Severe Weather/Tornado WARNING means that severe weather or a tornado has been spotted and immediate action must be taken to ensure your safety. Close your blinds and windows and stay away from windows. The safest place in your apartment is your bathroom, with the door shut. The safest common areas are the lowest levels of either building, away from windows.

During instances of severe weather, please remember to:

· Keep away from windows

· Keep your cell phone fully charged and nearby

· Wear your emergency pendant

· Locate a flashlight

· Keep a radio or television tuned to a station providing weather updates

Our staff receive regular training on emergency preparedness and response, so we can work together to ensure everyone’s safety.  If you have any questions or concerns about any of our emergency preparedness policies and procedures please do not hesitate to contact the front desk.  We are happy to help. 

~Ashley Farr, Legal Counsel

Posted in General Information /Safety /Senior Living /Uncategorized /

ASK THE EXPERT // Life Without Loneliness

This month focuses on physical and mental health, because when we are healthier, we are safer! I recently read a US-based study that concluded older adults who are lonely and/or socially isolated have a significantly higher risk of developing dementia.  The study concluded that enhancing social engagement and reducing loneliness had a number of significant health benefits, including reducing the risk of developing dementia.

One of the key factors that went into the design of Copperfield Hill was to have our residents live a “Life Without Loneliness.”  My grandmother, who was one of Copperfield Hill’s very first residents, was THE social butterfly! She was sharp as a tack and always had a big smile on her face. The health benefits of her social life were very clear! So, this month, I encourage you to take advantage of the MANY opportunities here in our community to engage with others.  Check out the activity calendar, or talk to someone you haven’t before, you might make a new friend. 

If you have a suggestion for an activity, please contact your community’s Activity/Recreation Specialist. They love suggestions and ideas.  This month set a goal to get more involved in our fun and friendly community.  Remember, science shows you will be happier, healthier, and of course, safer, as a result!  

~Ashley Farr Fjelstad

Legal Counsel & Compliance

Posted in About Us /Activities /Community Amenities /General Information /Senior Living /

May is… National Moving Month

May is traditionally the busiest month of the year when it comes to moving.  Right now, home sales continue to be brisk.  The summer months are a popular time to move, especially in Minnesota! 

Moving is always a big task and one which takes some effort and planning.  It is also an adventure with new places, people and possibilities. 

Many of our residents have made the move to Copperfield Hill after downsizing or when they want to have other services available to them.  Transportation, meals, activities, housekeeping and nursing services are just a few things that can be customized for each individual here at Copperfield Hill. 

Many of our residents have moved to Copperfield Hill because a family member or friend lives here.  We also would like to remind you of the “Friends and Family” referral program at Copperfield Hill.  Residents referring new residents will receive a referral gift.

Posted in About Us /Assisted Living /General Information /Independent Living /Memory Care /Senior Living /

What is Podiatry??

April is National Foot Health Awareness Month

Taking care of your feet has an impact on your health.  So when we need care for our feet, why should one seek the help of a Podiatrist?  First of all, feet are a very complex part of the body.  They carry us throughout our day, while acting as shock absorbers and balance for our bodies.  Our feet require good care.  A Doctor of Podiatric Medicine or DPM, is a medical expert that has spent many years and countless hours training in the care of the foot and ankle.  DPM’s are uniquely qualified to take care of this part of the body.  Podiatrists have many fields of specialty, such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics and diabetic care. 

At Copperfield Hill there is a monthly podiatry clinic.  Podiatry visits can include: 

~ Comprehensive foot evaluations

~ Nail and callous management

~ Diabetic foot exams

~ Medical equipment evaluations (braces, shoe inserts, diabetic shoes)

These visits are billed to insurance and are routinely covered as office visits by Medicare.

Posted in General Information /Health Topics /Nursing /Senior Living /

Services Offered at Copperfield Hill

When we talk about senior services, the question often arises:  What services do you offer?  Many senior housing communities offer services.  Services can be anything from housekeeping to more complex nursing services like medication management.  However, there are a variety of needs for a variety of people.

At Copperfield Hill, we provide an array of services that help individuals maintain a level of independency and security.  Copperfield Hill offers customized senior living for their residents. 

Our community amenities include: 

  • Transportation
  • Healthy Menu Options
  • Spiritual Enrichment
  • Daily Activities 

Additional services can include: 

  • Housekeeping
  • Meal Plans
  • Oxygen Management
  • Diabetic Management
  • Catheter Care
  • Colostomy Care

There is no “one” blueprint for our residents.  Each individual has a distinct set of wants and needs.  We are here to provide a customized plan and program to meet those wants and needs.  For that reason, we remain a vibrant and active community.  Our residents are proof of that!

Posted in About Us /Assisted Living /Community Amenities /General Information /Independent Living /Memory Care /Nursing /Senior Living /

ASK THE EXPERT // What is Assisted Living?

What exactly does Assisted Living Mean?  Simply put, assisted living provides personalized care in a residential setting.  It is designed for people who require various levels of personal and medical care.  Living spaces are normally an apartment and provide a homelike setting.  Amenities of assisted living are often the same as independent living.  Services are tailored to the needs of each person.  Personal support, medication management, health monitoring, and an active lifestyle are key for any person choosing an assisted living community. 

Memory care support is another facet of assisted living.  Many communities provide a secure area for residents needing memory support.  Again, daily activities, medication and health management are part of the program designed for each individual’s needs. 

The most common reason seniors choose assisted living is needing help with activities of daily living (ADLs).  

Those seeking assistance typically need help with two or more ADLs.  Dressing, bathing, bed transfer, toileting and meal preparation are common.  Many seniors choose a move to assisted living when they reach a point where they want the reassurance of feeling connected to a community instead of living alone and apart.  They often seek to reduce the time and effort spent on cooking, cleaning, laundry and home maintenance.

Assisted living communities typically offer rent, meals, housekeeping and medical programming.  How these services are bundled and priced vary.  Transportation services, activity and spiritual programming and other “extras” can vary from community to community.  Some services are included in the base cost of assisted living and others are an extra charge.

When an individual’s health and well-being requires a higher level of support, assisted living can be a great alternative.  It provides a healthy lifestyle and social engagement, while offering support and security for individuals and their families. 

Keep in mind, assisted living is not skilled nursing or nursing home care.  In skilled nursing, a resident receives full-time medical care by a highly trained medical staff.  There is less choice and more urgency involved when a person needs that level of care.  Assisted living options allow for a personalized level of care and more homelike (and affordable) living situation.

If you have any questions concerning housing options at Copperfield Hill, contact Sherry Price, 763-277-1008.

Posted in About Us /Assisted Living /General Information /Independent Living /Memory Care /Senior Living /

ASK THE EXPERT // Independent Living and Assisted Living

 

Key Differences  Between Independent and Assisted Living

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“We moved into Copperfield Hill a little over a year ago. We were immediately struck by the friendliness of residents and the kindness of staff. It is clear that the staff works hard ever day to make Copperfield Hill a pleasant, nurturing and fun place to live.”

~Copperfield Hill Resident

Whether you are familiar with senior housing or you are just starting to explore your options, it can become overwhelming to dissect the variety of housing options for a 55+ community. Your first step in seeking a new home is to start by asking some questions on how your current day to day activities look.

• Do you desire to join friends for a meal?
• Do you enjoy attending exercise classes and cards?
• Do you want the freedom of having no home maintenance?
• Are you worried about falling in your home without the ability to reach help in a timely fashion?

By answering a few questions, you can start to sift through the best option to suit your wants and needs.

Independent Living is in an apartment-style community. Residents can choose from a one or two bedroom apartment with a full size kitchen. A full time staff is dedicated to providing assistance towards maintaining independence. A maintenance team is built in to assist in home repairs to ease the worries of maintaining a home. The recreation team is charged with creating an array of socialization opportunities:  exercise classes, card clubs, happy hours and scheduled outings. Our dining room is available seven days a week for a continental breakfast with additional meals for lunch and/or dinner with a full menu.

The term Assisted Living has created confusion for many families. Assisted Living is a benefit to allow residents to still live on their own, however, they are requiring some assistance to maintain their independence. Our team is built in and on-site 24 hours a day. The consistency and reassurance of a staff to aid in your safety is a key benefit of Assisted Living. All the benefits of socialization and transportation with Independent Living are consistent in Assisted Living.

Assisted Living Services

• Bathing
• Dressing
• Laundry
• Medication Mgmt.
• Emergency Pendant
• Three meals per day
• Medical staff 24 hours
• Diabetic Mgmt.
• Oxygen Mgmt.

Copperfield Hill creates a customized approach to our senior community. Our  specialized team will be able to sift through your desires and concerns to create a solution to keep you independent, while addressing your needs for safety.

Call 763.277.1008 or email to sprice@copperfieldhill.com to start the conversation.

 

Posted in About Us /Assisted Living /General Information /Independent Living /Nursing /Senior Living /

Dementia and Delirium; Know the Difference

The Difference Between Dementia and Delirium

Cognitive impairment is more common as we age. Dementia and delirium are two common causes. Delirium and dementia have similarities and can be confusing to experience and to distinguish. Both can cause memory loss, poor judgment, a decreased ability to communicate and impaired functioning. However, there are many differences between the two.

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“Dementia resembles delirium in the same way an ultramarathon resembles a dash across the street. Same basic components, vastly different scale.” ~Floyd Skloot

Onset: Dementia typically begins slowly and is gradually noticed over time. If the person who’s being evaluated is unknown to you, having a report of his usual functioning is key. Delirium is usually a sudden or acute change in condition. One day, someone is doing fine, the next, they may be very confused and unable to perform tasks, like dressing.

Cause: Dementia is typically a disease such as Alzheimer’s, vascular dementia, Lewy Body dementia, frontotemporal dementia or a related disorder. Delirium is usually triggered by a specific illness, including: urinary tract infection, pneumonia, dehydration, illicit drug use, or withdrawal from drugs or alcohol. Medication interactions can also cause delirium.

Duration:   Dementia is a progressive, chronic disease that is incurable. Delirium is normally short term and can last for a couple of days to a couple of months. Delirium is almost always temporary if the cause is identified and treated.

Communication Abilities: People with dementia often experience difficulty remembering and finding the right words. Their ability to express themselves erodes over time as the disease progresses. Delirium may cause inappropriate and/or incoherent communication that is uncharacteristic for the individual.

Attention Span and Memory: With dementia a person’s memory is significantly affected throughout the disease. The level of alertness is typically not affected until the late stages of the disease. With delirium, memory functioning is usually less affected, but the general ability to focus and maintain attention is very poor.

Activity Level: Dementia tends to not affect a person’s activity level until the later stages. People with delirium are often overly active (hyper and restless) or under-active (lethargic and less responsive) compared to usual activity.

Treatment: There are a few medications approved by the FDA to treat Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia. They don’t cure dementia but sometimes can slow the progression of the symptoms, including: memory loss, poor judgment and behavioral changes. Delirium requires immediate treatment by a physician. Because delirium is usually caused by a physical illness or infection, medications are often effective.

 

Sources: mayoclinic.org, merckmanuals.com, verywellhealth.com, alz.org

 

Posted in Alzheimer's Disease /Health Topics /Memory Care /Nursing /Senior Living /