How to Find Quality Skilled Nursing for Your Loved One

When your loved one requires more assistance than assisted living can provide, what comes next? This is when skilled nursing can provide a high quality of life with the support your loved one needs, says Charles Benjamin, Executive Director of Harrogate, a premier active senior living community just minutes from Toms River and the Monmouth/Ocean County beaches.

“People often use the words nursing home and assisted living and skilled nursing interchangeably, but there are actually distinct differences between those terms,” he says. “Skilled nursing is a service that is provided in a community and is a type of care that can only be performed by trained, licensed nurses. Skilled nursing can take place in a separate facility, or it can take place on-site at a community like Harrogate.”

Skilled nursing, Charles says, includes nursing care, assistance with everyday activities, 24-hour supervision, rehabilitation services if needed, three meals a day as well as a variety of other amenities like you would find at a senior living community. The amount of time that someone spends in skilled nursing can range greatly depending on their level of care needs.

“Some individuals only need to stay in skilled nursing for a short time following a surgery, accident or illness,” he says. “Others may need to live in skilled nursing permanently because their physical or mental health is such that they need constant, trained supervision.”

Skilled nursing services are regulated by the United States Department of Health and Human Services and Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). In order to be certified, communities that provide skilled nursing must meet specific, strict criteria and are subject to inspections on a regular basis.

What Care Does Skilled Nursing Offer?

Skilled nursing communities offer a wide range of services and medical care, including:

  • Physical therapy to help an individual recover from illness, surgery or hospitalization
  • Occupational therapy, which includes assistance for adapting to everyday environments, including getting dressed, coordination exercises and memory training
  • Speech therapy which helps address communication issues and swallowing dysfunctions, which can be common in older adults
  • Other services including but not limited to wound care, intravenous (IV) therapy, injections and monitoring of vital signs and medical equipment

How Do I Find a Skilled Nursing Facility for My Loved One?

A good place to start is Medicare.gov’s Nursing Home Compare tool. This allows you to compare skilled nursing facilities in your desired area based on their quality of care, what special services they offer and their health and safety inspection results. Other great resources include friends and family, as well as online research through third-party sites. You may also wish to connect with social workers or your local Area Agency on Aging for more information.

Once you’ve narrowed your search down to a handful of facilities, we suggest touring them in person to get a feel for the facility. Here are some questions to ask in order to help determine whether a community is right for your loved one:

  1. What are the inspection ratings for your skilled nursing facility, or what is your star rating? The highest quality care facilities receive 5-star ratings, while below average quality facilities will receive 1-star ratings.
  2. What activities are available for residents? The best care communities focus on whole body wellness instead of just physical health. Activities provide emotional and mental stimulation for residents, which results in better overall health. Look for communities that provide a wide range of activities that focus on the entire person instead of just a few aspects.
  3. Is there an RN available 24/7? Having a registered nurse on site at all times is essential for providing the very best possible care for residents. An RN should be available to respond to any unexpected needs and provide immediate medical care.
  4. How do you determine care plans? One-size-fits-all is never the correct approach for skilled nursing. Pay attention to how health assessments are done and how personalized care plans are crafted. Be sure to ask about family involvement, as well as how often care plans are revisited to ensure that the resident is receiving the very best possible care as their needs change.

Besides asking questions, you’ll want to use your senses and observation skills to get a feel for what life is really like in the community. Here are some things to pay attention to when you’re on a tour:

  • What are your first impressions of the community? Is it clean and well-kept, or is it run-down and looks like it needs to be updated? How does it smell? Is it cheerful and brightly lit?
  • How does the staff interact with residents? Are they smiling and greeting residents by name? Do they look tired or worn out?
  • How do the residents appear? Are they participating in activities, mingling or otherwise having an enjoyable time? Do they look well cared for?
  • Is it a place you can imagine your loved one enjoying?

5-Star Skilled Nursing in Lakewood, New Jersey

As a Life Care Community, Harrogate provides residents with access to long-term and short-term health-care services on our campus – meaning our residents never have to leave their “home” to receive the care they require. Our skilled nursing center offers both private- and semi-private suites, as well as comfortable common spaces where residents can mingle with one another as well as staff. Personalized care plans are developed in tandem with residents’ needs and preferences.

“Our community has a reputation for delivering high-quality skilled nursing in a homelike environment,” says Charles. “Our team of specialists is trained to handle every aspect of skilled nursing, from comprehensive wound care to individualized programs for specific health needs. We’re among a select few retirement communities in Ocean County, New Jersey, to earn a 5-Star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.”

This Is What “Worry Less, Live More” Looks Like

Located near Toms River, New Jersey, Harrogate offers a worry-free, fulfilling and experience-rich life. Here, you’ll be free of the hassles of homeownership while having access to all of the best that life has to offer. From opportunities to engage, enrich and challenge yourself to the peace of mind of future care, socialization and so much more.

No matter what your needs may be, we can meet them, ensuring you are worry-free for years to come. With our Life Care, you can enjoy independent living, home health care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation for one entrance fee and a monthly fee that covers everything our lifestyle has to offer.

Worry Less and Live More at Harrogate!

Call for information at ​866-606-0178 or visit our website.

Senior Living Success: Telling the Kids About Your Move

One thing we can probably agree on is that we’re all glad to see 2020 in our rearview mirror. Many senior adults, after closing the chapter on the past year, are now looking to 2021 and considering what the new year has in store for them. For many, making the move to a senior living community like ours makes complete sense, says Charles Benjamin, Executive Director of Harrogate, a premier active senior living community just minutes from Toms River and the Monmouth/Ocean County beaches.

“The threat of COVID-19 has caused many older adults to reconsider their living arrangements,” Charles says. “Surprisingly for many, a senior living community like Harrogate is actually the safest place for them to enjoy their days while also social distancing. Thanks to rigorous safety standards put in place, a senior living community is often much safer than living independently in a family home.”

While this may seem counter intuitive, Charles says that moving to an enclosed community provides older adults a sense of freedom while also bringing peace of mind for the future. “Your risks are much lower and the safety standards are much higher, making it the perfect place for older, at-risk adults to spend their retirement,” he says. “However, at some point you have to do something that may be difficult: telling your kids about your decision.”

Charles says that adult children can have a huge range of emotions when it comes to hearing their parents are moving to retirement living. They may be thrilled and completely supportive. On the other hand, they may be resentful, stubborn or simply believe that you are making the wrong choice. What’s a senior adult to do?

Obviously, you want to make sure you ease your kids’ minds during the transition, while also asserting your independence and preferences. Here are some tips for helping share the news with your kids, easing their concerns, addressing any questions they may have and getting them excited about this new journey that lies ahead.

Focus on the benefits.

It’s always best to lead with the positives and benefits as you’re announcing a new life change. This will help make the situation a lot more palatable to your loved ones, and can also help cut off any complaints before they begin. “Many adult children may assume that their parents would prefer to stay at home or live with them instead of moving into a community, and this change could be very discombobulating to them,” says Charles. “They may be resentful at the loss of their family home, or they could be worried that you won’t receive the appropriate level of care and assistance.”

Take some time to learn about the community you’re moving to and present the information to your kids in an optimistic, positive manner. Let them know that your desire to live elsewhere isn’t a personal slight – you’re making the right decision for you based on your personal experiences and knowledge. Be open about your choices and why you’ve decided to move. Whatever your reasons are, let your children know that you’re doing this to improve your quality of life – not to punish anyone or step away from everything you love.

Be prepared to answer a lot of questions.

Your children will probably have many questions upon your announcement. These can range from financial to personal to everything in between. You will need to prep beforehand and decide what you want your kids to know – and what they don’t need to know. After all, if you’re making this decision for yourself, you’re simply informing them of the change – you don’t need to justify yourself or get their permission.

It may be helpful to have some brochures from your community on hand so you can easily share information and get your children additional information. You may also wish to schedule a tour of the community with your kids so they can see firsthand where you’re going and also meet the staff and other key members of the community. Having plenty of information can help answer your kids’ questions and put them at ease about your decision.

Reassure them that you’re doing this to help continue – not stifle – your independence.

Surprisingly, there are still many misconceptions about senior living out there. One of the biggest is that moving to senior living robs older adults of all their independence. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, moving to senior living can actually increase your independence and improve your quality of life for longer than you would be able to live at home.

Having information about the community you’re moving to can help reassure your children about your decision. If they see that you’re doing this to benefit your life and even take responsibilities off their shoulders, they may be more amenable to the situation and eventually become as excited as you about this new chapter of life.

Ask them for their input and help.

While moving away from a home you know and love can be sad, it can also be an opportunity for you to share an experience with your children – and get their input. Ask your children for their help so they can be an integral part of this next phase of life. This is a great opportunity for your family to go through your home, look through personal items and share stories about the history you’ve experienced in the family home. While this can be bittersweet, it can also forge priceless memories. Take your time as you go through the house and pare through your belongings. You may be surprised at what items hold particular meaning to your children. Don’t forget that this is a perfect time to pass along heirlooms and other family pieces – not only will they get those items out of your hands, but you’ll also be able to see your kids and relatives enjoying them during your lifetime.

“The biggest thing you can do to get your adult children excited about your move is to involve them in the process,” says Charles. “By positioning this as an exciting, invigorating time, they’ll be more likely to get excited about the move – and, by extension, you will too. Although there may be bumps in the road and you may experience some skepticism, involving them in the process is one of the best ways to reassure your adult children and share your enthusiasm with them.”

This Is What “Worry Less, Live More” Looks Like

Located near Toms River, New Jersey, Harrogate offers a fulfilling and experience-rich life. Here, you’ll be free of the hassles of homeownership while having access to all of the best that life has to offer – from opportunities to engage, enrich and challenge yourself to the peace of mind of future care, socialization and so much more.

No matter what your needs may be, we can meet them, ensuring you are worry-free for years to come. With our Life Care, you can enjoy independent living, home health care, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, memory support and more for one entrance fee and a monthly fee that covers everything our lifestyle has to offer.

Worry Less and Live More at Harrogate!

Call for information at ​866-606-0178 or visit our website.

New F.D.A. Approved COVID-19 Vaccine Released at Harrogate

Harrogate is pleased to be able to offer the COVID-19 vaccination to residents and employees through our partner pharmacy. Residents and employees will be in the initial distribution group in the CDC phased allocations and among the first in the country to have access to the vaccine once it is available. Specific vaccination distribution and delivery plans, including the prioritization of residents by level of care, will be determined by each state. Click here for the most recent state plan for the rollout of vaccine access.

Harrogate and other communities managed by Life Care Services® are partnering with CVS and Walgreens to provide the vaccine to residents and staff free of charge. Vaccinations will be carefully administered by a licensed professional at Harrogate, offering the peace of mind that comes with not having to venture out in public to receive the immunization.

Harrogate is dedicated to mitigating the spread of COVID-19. We continue to put residents first by utilizing enhanced infection and disease control protocols, while still providing exceptional experiences for residents.

If you have further questions about the COVID-19 vaccine, visit the CDC website here. Please contact us at 866-606-0178 for specific information about the vaccination plan at Harrogate.

To review current FAQs regarding the COVID-19 vaccine, please click here.

This Is What “Worry Less, Live More” Looks Like

Located near Toms River, New Jersey, Harrogate offers a fulfilling and experience-rich life. Here, you’ll be free of the hassles of homeownership while having access to all of the best that life has to offer – from opportunities to engage, enrich and challenge yourself to the peace of mind of future care, socialization and so much more.

No matter what your needs may be, we can meet them, ensuring you are worry-free for years to come. With our Life Care, you can enjoy independent living, home health, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and more for one entrance fee and a monthly fee that covers everything our lifestyle has to offer.

Worry Less and Live More at Harrogate!

Call for information at ​866-606-0178 or visit our website.

Why a Life Care Community Makes Sense During Uncertain Times

It’s no secret that life can be uncertain at times. While this tends to make anyone a little nervous, by planning ahead, knowing what to expect and securing peace of mind, it can help to make the uncertain moments a little more peaceful. This is why many seniors take advantage of Life Care Communities!

 

“Life Care at Harrogate ensures our residents have access to everything they need when it’s needed,” says Gloria Walsh, Associate Executive Director at Harrogate, an active senior living community in Lakewood, New Jersey. “No matter what uncertainties come their way, we are there to lend a hand, assist when needed and provide the care, support and lifestyle they deserve.”

 

“In light of recent events, we’ve seen now more than ever how this peace of mind is valuable,” she adds. “Not only are we prepared and ready to face each day as it comes, but we are also helping residents, families and friends feel more comfortable and more carefree, in spite of all the uncertainty, change and frustration surrounding this time. Our residents are consistently remarking how safe, engaged and cared for they feel, and we couldn’t be prouder to serve them through everything life throws their way.”

 

Why Life Care Makes Sense During Uncertain Times

Life Care can do so much for seniors through certainty and uncertainty. Consider some of the following ways that Life Care Communities can benefit you or a loved one!

  • There is no fear about rising costs. When your health needs unexpectedly change, your costs do not. This ensures you can continue paying for care at the same cost you were previously while keeping costs considerably lower than market rates.
  • They take care of everything for you. You don’t need to think about grocery shopping, housekeeping, maintenance, yardwork or anything you don’t want to. This is because they’ve already thought of it all for you. Spend your time doing as you please, when you please, and rest assured knowing that your needs will be met with no issues.
  • Care is available if and when it’s needed. No matter how you or your spouse’s health needs change, Life Care ensures your needs are met. With independent living, skilled nursing care and rehabilitation, you can get the care you need all in one place. If your spouse needs a higher level of care, you don’t even need to worry about paying for two residences if you don’t want to move along with them! Instead, you can enjoy predictability, a plan for the future and peace of mind.
  • The team ensures you can remain connected and social. From engaging programming and activities to innovative ways to connect with others, no matter what’s going on, the team in a Life Care Community can ensure you remain happy, connected and engaged.
  • They are prepared for the unexpected. With an array of policies, procedures and plans in place, the team at a Life Care Community can help to ease your mind when things that are far outside of your control happen. With years of experiences, plans laid out and quick reaction times, the unexpected becomes expected, making you safer, calmer and even more comfortable.

 

No matter when uncertainty strikes, we are here keeping our residents Harrogate Happy. To learn more or speak to a member of our team, contact us today!

 

Discover what it means to be Harrogate Happy and learn more about how we can provide you with the lifestyle you deserve and aspire to. Call ​866-606-0178 for more information today!

 

This Is What “Worry Less, Live More” Looks Like

Located near Toms River, New Jersey, Harrogate offers a worry-free, fulfilling and experience-rich life. Here, you’ll be free of the hassles of homeownership while having access to all of the best that life has to offer. From opportunities to engage, enrich and challenge yourself, to the peace of mind of future care, socialization and so much more.

No matter what your needs may be, we can meet them, ensuring you are worry-free for years to come. With our Life Care, you can enjoy independent living, home health, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, memory support and more for one entrance fee and a monthly fee that covers everything our lifestyle has to offer.

 

Worry Less and Live More at Harrogate!

Call for information at ​866-606-0178 or visit our website.

Harrogate: Offering Exceptional Senior Living to Toms River, NJ

When it comes to senior living, no one should settle for anything less than exceptional. At Harrogate, Ocean County, New Jersey’s premier active senior living community, located between Toms River and Lakewood, New Jersey, that’s exactly what residents get.

 

“Residents at Harrogate can enjoy the freedom to explore everything our 52-acre community has to offer while enjoying the opportunity to embrace and experience the best of life every day,” says Gloria Walsh, Associate Executive Director at Harrogate. “Harrogate is our residents’ happy place and it’s easy to see why. With exceptional value, community, security, purpose and a worry-free lifestyle, our residents wish they’d made the move years ago!”

 

“Worry Less, Live More” at Harrogate

Have a look at our lifestyle and explore what makes living at Harrogate a one-of-a-kind experience!

 

  • Expert health care services. With independent living and an array of health services, residents can enjoy the peace of mind that their needs will be able to be met without leaving the community they love. Each level of health services meets the specific needs and wants of the individual whether they desire independent living or require home health care, skilled nursing care, rehabilitation or memory support. No matter what our residents need, we have a care team consisting of on-site specialists including physicians, therapy staff, nursing professionals and more.

 

  • An array of services and amenities. Because we take all the worries off your plate, you can enjoy everything our community has to offer. Enjoy a class, attend a variety of events, hear from special speakers, go on trips and attend concerts. No matter what you’re looking for, we have an option for you.

 

  • A healthier and happier you with Eight Dimensions of Wellness. We combine the eight aspects of wellness to help ensure our residents live healthy, happy and well. We help residents age successfully by focusing on spiritual, intellectual, social, environmental, physical, emotional and vocational health as well as wellness and so much more.

 

  • Delicious dining. Our dining team strives to provide a restaurant-style dining experience. Menus are varied, we know your personal tastes and dietary preferences and we make your meals from scratch, just how you like them. Eat in our Kettle Creek Cafe, enjoy al fresco dining, and experience our Schnetzer Dining Room. The options are all yours.

 

  • A robust activities calendar. At Harrogate, we offer so many opportunities to engage, enrich and challenge yourself. Whether you want to enjoy your long-held hobbies, focus on hidden talents or learn something completely new, you can find your purpose and fill your days with socialization and happiness.

 

  • Floor plans to fit your desires. Our spacious, maintenance-free and newly renovated senior living apartments are available in a variety of floor plans. Pay a one-time entrance fee based on the size of residence you choose and then a monthly service fee that covers your maintenance, utilities, housekeeping, meals and so much more! Choose a plan to meet your needs and desires and experience the lifestyle you deserve.

 

  • A smart plan for tomorrow. At Harrogate, we know that life isn’t perfect. This is why we offer Life Care. With a one-time entrance fee, you will have access to the care levels you need, no matter when you need them. Life Care offers predictable monthly fees, even when you can’t predict what’s going to happen from day to day.

 

Discover what it means to be Harrogate Happy and learn more about how we can provide you with the lifestyle you deserve and aspire to. Call ​866-606-0178 for more information today!

 

This Is What “Worry Less, Live More” Looks Like

Located near Toms River, New Jersey, Harrogate offers a worry-free, fulfilling and experience-rich life. Here, you’ll be free of the hassles of homeownership while having access to all of the best that life has to offer. From opportunities to engage, enrich and challenge yourself, to the peace of mind of future care, socialization and so much more.

 

No matter what your needs may be, we can meet them, ensuring you are worry-free for years to come. With our Life Care, you can enjoy independent living, home health, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, memory support and more for one entrance fee and a monthly fee that covers everything our lifestyle has to offer.

 

Worry Less and Live More at Harrogate!
Call for information at ​866-606-0178 or visit our website.