As we age, it’s no secret that we may experience more pain. Finding a California senior care community to help ease that discomfort becomes a priority for many.
Assisted living and memory care communities like Creston Village in Paso Robles, CA, offer various tactics for managing pain through traditional and innovative methods.
When searching for the right senior living community, many assume they need a nursing home to accommodate their needs. However, senior living communities come in various forms, and understanding their differences is crucial.
Many senior living communities provide lifestyles that help older adults avoid nursing homes.
The Different Types of Senior Care in California for Pain Management
In the world of senior care, it’s essential to understand the difference between a nursing home and an assisted living community. Both types of facilities cater to the unique needs of older adults, but they serve distinct purposes and are best suited for different individuals.
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes are designed for individuals with chronic conditions who can no longer live independently. These facilities provide round-the-clock medical care, including assistance with daily bathing, dressing, and eating. Nursing homes are staffed by registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and certified nursing assistants trained to manage complex medical needs such as intravenous care for pain.
Some common reasons individuals might require a nursing home include:
- Recovery from major surgery or illness
- Advanced stages of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease
- Severe mobility issues requiring specialized equipment or constant supervision
- Complex medical conditions that require ongoing monitoring and treatment
Assisted Living Communities
Assisted living communities provide support to help people live independently at a pace that suits them. Residents typically have their own private apartments or rooms and receive assistance with daily activities as needed. The level of care provided in assisted living communities varies depending on the individual’s requirements.
Some of the services offered in assisted living communities include:
- Medication management
- Assistance with personal care (bathing, dressing, grooming)
- Housekeeping and laundry services
- Meal preparation and dining services
- Social activities and events
Assisted living communities are ideal for individuals who need help with daily tasks but can still maintain independence. Sometimes, that support involves managing pain or other age-related health issues.
In the world of senior care, it’s essential to understand the difference between a nursing home and an assisted living community. Nursing homes are best suited for individuals with chronic conditions who can no longer lead an independent lifestyle. On the other hand, assisted living communities provide support to help people live independently at a pace that suits them. Sometimes, that support involves managing pain.
Medication Management, Physical Therapy, and Activities
One significant benefit of assisted living and memory care is medication management. Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) work closely with pharmacists to assist in topical and oral pain management treatments, ensuring residents receive the necessary medications to alleviate their pain.
In addition to medication management, on-site physical, occupational, and speech therapy play a crucial role in managing pain. These therapies help residents maintain their strength, mobility, and independence, which can ultimately reduce their pain levels.
An active lifestyle in an assisted living community can also help lessen pain. Seated exercises and other activities tailored to the residents’ abilities promote physical well-being and can contribute to pain relief.
Understanding Dementia and Pain
Managing pain in individuals with dementia can be challenging due to the difficulty of determining their pain levels. The pain scale for patients with dementia is designed to help caregivers assess pain in verbal and non-verbal individuals.
Well over half of people with dementia experience daily pain. Increased discomfort can affect sleeping patterns, mood, and well-being.
The five steps to determine a person with dementia’s pain level include observing:
1. Breathing: labored breaths, hyperventilation, or Cheyne-Stokes respirations
2. Vocalizations: moans, cries, repetitive calls for help
3. Facial expression: noticeable frowns and grimacing
4. Body language: pacing, tenseness, combative, or fidgeting
5. Consolability: does the person with dementia respond to voice or touch
By carefully considering these factors, caregivers can better understand and address the pain experienced by residents with dementia.
The Connections program for memory care at Creston Village helps manage Alzheimer’s and dementia through daily engagement and enrichment. Keeping residents active socially and physically can help mitigate some of the pains of an inactive or lonely lifestyle.
Creston Village: A Supportive Community for Pain Management
At Creston Village, a premier assisted living and memory care community in Paso Robles, CA, team members are committed to providing exceptional care and support to residents with chronic pain. With medication management, on-site therapy, and an active lifestyle, Creston Village takes a comprehensive approach to pain management.
Managing Chronic Pain in Assisted Living and Memory Care
If you or a loved one are searching for senior care in California, consider Creston Village in Paso Robles, CA. Our compassionate team and specialized programs are designed to manage pain and create independent lifestyles. Contact us to learn more.