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Types of Dementia

Types of Dementia

When a lot of people hear the term “dementia,” one of the first things that pops into their heads is “Alzheimer’s.” In typical terminology, the two words are usually used correspondingly, and when a person’s loved one or relative shows indications of memory loss, it’s not unusual for them to say, “I pray it isn’t Alzheimer’s.”

Nevertheless, Alzheimer’s is only one cause of dementia, which is the general term for decrease in memory, reasoning and thinking skills that considerably affects daily life. Should a loved one be experiencing memory issues, Alzheimer’s might be a probable diagnosis, but there are 4 other general kinds of dementia that needs to also be thought of: Lewy body, frontotemporal, vascular, and varied.

Each variation of dementia has various qualities, and for healthcare professionals, having knowledge of the difference can help in supervising a loved one’s symptoms and getting the proper resources. Below is a breakdown of the five most common variations:

  1. Alzheimer’s

This type of disease is the most typical kind of dementia, and as reported by the Alzheimer’s Association, it accounts for 60-80% of dementia instances. It is a gradual brain disease that causes damaged connections between nerve cells and tissue shrinking in areas of the brain necessary for memory functionality.

Initial signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s differ by individual, but can include challenges finding words, confusion with time and places, problems with judging distances and difficulties in planning and decision-making.

  1. Dementia with Lewy bodies

Also referred to as dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), this type of dementia accounts for 5-10% of dementia cases, as reported by the Alzheimer’s Association. It is characterized by the presence of Lewy bodies—miniscule deposits of protein—in the nerve cells in the brain. They are linked to the decrease of connections between these nerve cells, in addition to low levels of neurotransmitters in the brain.

Since Lewy bodies are also present in Parkinson’s Disease, those with DLB might experience likewise symptoms, like shaking and other challenges moving, as reported by the Family Caregiver Alliance. Those that have Parkinson’s are also at a higher risk of developing DLB as their disease advances.

Other typical signs of DLB include sleep issues, hallucinations and difficultly keeping attention.

  1. Frontotemporal

This is a kind of dementia that has an impact on the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, which are essential to maintaining skills associated to memory, speech, decision making, problem-solving and behavioral and emotional control, according to Verywell Health. This type of dementia was once believed to be the uncommon type of dementia; however, the Alzheimer’s Association now calculates that it makes up to 10-15 % of dementia cases.

Since the frontal lobe plays a vital role in controlling emotion and self-control and leads us to behave in inoffensive ways, early indications of FTD include behavioral changes, loss of emotional management and compulsive habits. Damage to the temporal lobe could cause language challenges, so shifts in vocal patterns are also typical to FTD.

  1. Vascular

Vascular dementia is the second most common kind of dementia, comprising of 20-40% of dementia cases, as reported by Verywell Health. This type of dementia stems from decreased blood supply to the brain because of blood vessels that are unhealthy, obstructed, leaking or otherwise impaired. Without the required blood supply, brain cells die, leading to reduced reasoning, memory, and thinking skills.

Common initial signs of this kind dementia include challenges concentrating, reduced speed of thinking, issues following steps and challenges with organizing and making decisions.

  1. Mixed

Mixed dementia takes place when an individual has more than one kind of dementia. The most general kind of this type of dementia is Alzheimer’s/vascular, followed by Alzheimer’s/Lewy body. As reported by the Alzheimer’s Association, 1 in 10 of individuals diagnosed with dementia has grounds of more than one kind of dementia present. Nevertheless, the precise number of mixed dementia cases is unknown since it is not usually detected or determined until an autopsy is carried out. Studies indicate that it may in fact be quite typical, but research on the subject is not yet finished.

The above five causes of dementia are the most typical, but there are many other diseases and ailments that can cause dementia. These comprise of:

  • Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease: An uncommon and rapidly advancing brain disorder.
  • Huntington’s Disease: A genetic ailment that breaks down nerve cells.
  • Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus: A brain ailment caused by fluid increase.
  • Posterior Cortical Atrophy: An uncommon ailment considered to be a variant of Alzheimer’s that causes deterioration in vision.
  • Parkinson’s Disease Dementia: An outcome of brain changes caused by Parkinson’s Disease leading to the progression of dementia.
  • Korsakoff Syndrome: A chronic memory ailment because of a lack of Vitamin B1.

Chaparral Winds Offers The Finest Retirement Living In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a retirement facility in Surprise, Arizona offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. For more information about our senior living facility, SLS Communities or to schedule a tour, please call us today at 623-343-4125.

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Muscular Dystrophy
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What Is Muscular Dystrophy (MD)?

Muscular dystrophy (MD) is a grouping of more than thirty genetic diseases. They are the cause of muscle weakness. After a while, this weakness worsens and can cause difficulty walking and doing day-to-day undertakings. Some kinds of MD can also impact other organs.

What are the kinds of muscular dystrophy (MD)?

There are many various kinds of MD. Some of the more common kinds include:

  • Duchenne MD, which is the most common childhood kind. It is severe and impacts boys more often than girls. The symptoms typically begin between three and six years of age.
  • Facioscapulohumeral MD, which often starts in the teenage years. In the beginning, it impacts the muscles of a face, shoulders, and upper arms.
  • Becker MD, which is like Duchenne but is less severe and worsens more slowly. It often begins in the teen years.
  • Congenital MD, which are present at birth or prior to 2 years of age. They can be severe or mild.

Each of the kinds of MD can be varied in a lot of ways, like:

  • Who is more seemingly to get them
  • What muscles they impact
  • What the symptoms are
  • When they emerge, like in babyhood, childhood, middle age, or later
  • How severe the symptoms are
  • If they run in families
  • How fast they get worse
  • If they impact other organs

Even within the same kind of MD, individuals can have dissimilar symptoms.

What is the cause of muscular dystrophy (MD)?

Muscular dystrophy is genetic, implying that it is caused by changes in one or more genes. These changes are also known as gene variants or deviation. The gene changes in MD impact proteins that reinforce and safeguard muscles.

There are various gene changes that are the cause of each kind of MD. And sometimes people that have the same kind of MD can have various gene changes.

MD could run in families, or you could be the first in your family to get it.

Diagnosing muscular dystrophy

To discover if you or your child has muscular dystrophy, your doctor may use:

  • A medical and family history
  • A physical examination
  • Blood and urine tests, comprising of genetic tests and tests for specific enzymes that might be released by impaired muscles
  • Muscle biopsies
  • Nerve conduction and Electromyography studies to discover if muscles are responding the correct way to nerve signals
  • Heart testing, like an electrocardiogram (EKG), due to some kinds of MD causing heart issues
  • Exercise tests for assessing muscle strength and breathing and discover any increased rates of specific chemicals after exercise
  • Image testing like an MRI to assess muscle quality and bulk and assess fatty replacement of muscle tissues

What are the treatments for MD?

Muscular dystrophy has no cure. Treatment can assist with the symptoms and prevent hindrances. It typically includes a mixture of therapies, like:

  • Physical therapy to aid in keeping muscles strong and flexible
  • Occupational therapy to re-learn lost motor skills and learn ways to work around impaired muscles
  • Respiratory care, like breathing exercises, ventilators, and oxygen therapies
  • Speech therapy to aid with speech and swallowing issues
  • Assistive devices, like wheelchairs, splints and braces, scooters and walkers
  • Medicines to aid in delaying damage to muscles or decrease the symptoms of MD
  • Surgery for treating some of the conditions related to MD, like heart issues, scoliosis, and cataracts

Chaparral Winds Offers The Finest Retirement Living In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a retirement facility in Surprise, Arizona offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. For more information about our senior living facility, SLS Communities or to schedule a tour, please call us today at 623-343-4125.

Lupus, MD, Senior Care, What Is Muscular Dystrophy
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What Is Lupus?

What is Lupus?

Lupus is a chronic disease that causes pain and inflammation in any area of the body. It is an autoimmune disease, meaning that your immune system — the body’s system that typically fights off infections — attacks healthier tissue instead.

This disease most generally impacts your:

  • Skin
  • Joints
  • Internal organs, such as your kidneys and heart

Since this disease impacts many areas of the body, it can be the cause of a lot of various symptoms.

What is inflammation?

Inflammation typically occurs when your immune system is fighting off an infection or trauma. Should lupus make your immune system attack healthier tissue, it could cause inflammation in many different body parts. Symptoms could include pain and swelling.

What are the types of lupus?

When people discuss this disease, they’re typically speaking about systemic lupus. But there are 4 types of this disease:

  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the most general type of this disease
  • Cutaneous lupus, a type of disease that is confined to the skin
  • Neonatal lupus, a rare form that impacts babies of women that have this disease
  • Drug-induced lupus, a lupus-like disease initiated by specific prescription drugs

Who is at risk for developing lupus?

Anybody can develop lupus. But specific people are at a higher risk for developing this disease, including:

  • Women age fifteen – forty-four
  • Specific ethnic or racial groups — including those that are African American, Asian American, Hispanic/Latino, Pacific Islander, or Native American
  • Those that have a relative with lupus or additional autoimmune disease

What causes lupus?

Nobody knows what the cause of this disease is— but it and other autoimmune diseases are hereditary. Professionals also believe it might develop in a response to specific hormones (such as estrogen) or environmental causes. An environmental cause is something externally from the body that can trigger symptoms of lupus — or worsen them.

This disease cannot be spread—you cannot “catch” lupus or give it to somebody else.

What are the initial symptoms of lupus?

There is no one initial indication or symptom of this disease. The first indications and symptoms of lupus are generally the same as the symptoms of this disease, including:

  • Fatigue
  • Joint Pain
  • Skin Rashes
  • Hair Loss
  • Mouth Sores
  • Brain Fog
  • Kidney Issues
  • Depression & Anxiety
  • Muscle Pain & Weakness
  • Heart Issues
  • Weight Changes

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Chaparral Winds is a retirement facility in Surprise, Arizona offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. For more information about our senior living facility, SLS Communities or to schedule a tour, please call us today at 623-343-4125.

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What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis causes joint inflammation and soreness. It occurs when the immune system isn’t working properly and assaults the joints lining, referred to as the synovium. The ailment commonly impacts the hands, ankles, or knees and typically the same joint on each side of the body, like both ankles or both knees. But oftentimes RA causes issues in other parts of the body additionally, like the heart, eyes, and cardiovascular system and/or the lungs.

For mysterious reasons, men come down with RA less than women, and it typically develops in middle age. Having a relative with RA increases the chances of developing RA.

Causes

In healthy people, the immune system fights aggressors, like bacteria and viruses. With an autoimmune ailment such as RA, the immune system misreads the body’s cells for foreign aggressors and releases inflammatory chemicals that fight those cells. In RA, it fights the synovium, the tissue lining surrounding a joint that creates a fluid to help the joint move streamlined. The inflamed synovium turns thicker and makes the joint area feel sensitive and painful and appears red and swollen, and moving the joint could be challenging.

Researchers are unsure why people fall victim to RA. They believe these people might have certain genes that are initiated by a trigger in their setting, like bacteria, a virus or emotional or physical stress or some other outside element.

Symptoms

In the initial stages, people with RA might not see swelling or redness in their joints, but they may feel tenderness and pain.

These symptoms are indicators to RA:

  • Joint pain, swelling, stiffness, or tenderness lasting 6 weeks or longer.
  • Morning inflexibility lasting for thirty minutes or longer.
  • The same joints on each side of the body are impacted.
  • One or more than one joint is impacted.
  • Smaller joints (wrists, particular joints in the feet and hands) are usually impacted first.

A lot of people that have RA get very fatigued and some might have a low-level fever. RA symptoms might reoccur. Having a lot of pain and other symptoms is known as a flare. These can last from days to months.

Health Effects

  • Eyes. Inflammation, dryness, pain, redness, light sensitivity, and difficulty seeing properly.
  • Mouth. Dryness and inflammation of the gums, soreness, or infection.
  • Skin. Rheumatoid nodes — small lumps under the skin on bony areas.
  • Lungs. Irritation and scarring that can result in shortness of breath and lung disease.
  • Blood vessels. Tenderness of blood vessels that can result in damage of the nerves, skin and other organs.
  • Blood. A below-normal number of red blood cells.
  • Heart. Inflammation could damage the heart muscle and the surrounding region.

Painful joints also make it challenging to exercise, resulting in weight gain. Being overweight could make people with RA are prone to develop heart disease, high cholesterol, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

Diagnosis

Receiving an accurate diagnosis sooner than later is the first step to successfully treating RA. A doctor with specialized training for treating arthritis (referred to as a rheumatologist) is the right person to make a proper diagnosis, utilizing medical history, a physical exam and lab tests.

Medical history. The doctor is going to inquire about joint symptoms (tenderness, pain, stiffness, moving challenges), when they began, if they reoccur, their severity, what movements make them worse or better and if relatives have RA or other autoimmune disease.

Physical exam.  The rheumatologist is going to look for joint tenderness, inflammation, warmth and painful or restricted movement, lumps under the skin or a low-level fever.

Blood tests. The tests are going to look for blood proteins and inflammation that are related to RA:

C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) are indicators for inflammation. A high ESR or CRP mixed with other indications to RA helps come to the diagnosis.

Rheumatoid factor (RF) are antibodies identified (in due course) in about eighty percent of individuals that have RA. Antibodies to cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) are identified in sixty to seventy percent of individuals with RA. Nevertheless, they’re also identified in individuals that don’t have RA.

Imaging tests. RA can cause the tips of the bones within a joint to erode. X-rays, ultrasounds, or MRI scans could search for erosions. However, should they not turn up on the initial tests that might mean RA is in the beginning stages and hasn’t impaired bone yet. Imaging outcomes can also indicate how well treatment is progressing.

Treatment

The objectives of RA treatment are to:

  • Hinder inflammation or decrease it to the lowest possible degree.
  • Ease symptoms.
  • Hinder joint and organ damage.
  • Optimize function and overall health.
  • Decrease long-term issues.

To fulfill these objectives, the rheumatologist is going to follow these tactics:

  • Early, aggressive treatments to decrease or hinder inflammation as fast as possible.
  • Targeting remission or another objective to work toward little or no signs or symptoms of lively inflammation.
  • Strict control to keep inflammation at the lowest degree possible.

Chaparral Winds Offers The Finest Retirement Living In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a retirement facility in Surprise, Arizona offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. For more information about our senior living facility, SLS Communities or to schedule a tour, please call us today at 623-343-4125.

Rheumatoid Arthritis
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What Is Aphasia?

What is Aphasia?

Aphasia is a language ailment caused by impairment in a particular part of the brain that manages language comprehension expression and. Aphasia leaves an individual unable to converse effectively with others.

A lot of individuals have aphasia because of a stroke. Equally, men and women are impacted, and many individuals that have aphasia are in middle to old aged.

There are a lot of kinds of aphasia. These are typically diagnosed based on which area of the language-dominant area of the brain is impacted and the scope of the damage. For instance:

  • People that have Wernicke aphasia have impairment to the side area of the language-dominant area of their brain.
  • Those that have Broca aphasia have impairment to the front area of the language-dominant area of their brain.

Another type of aphasia is Global aphasia is because of an impairment to a large area of the language-dominant area of their brain.

What is the Trigger of Aphasia?

Aphasia comes from an impairment to the language-dominant side of the brain, typically the left side, and could stem from:

  • Stroke
  • Dementia
  • Brain tumor
  • Head injury
  • Infection

It is presently unknown if aphasia is the total loss of language structures, or if it causes challenges in how language is perceived and used.

What are Aphasia Symptoms?

The symptoms of aphasia are subject to which kind a person has.

People that have Broca aphasia, sometimes known as an expressive aphasia, for instance, might eliminate the words “the” and “and” from their vocabulary, and speak in brief, but important, sentences. They typically can understand a little speech of others. Since the impairment is in the front part of the brain, and is also important for movement, people that have Broca’s aphasia usually have right-sided frailty or paralysis of their arm and leg.

On the other hand, people with Wernicke aphasia, occasionally referred to as receptive aphasia, could speak in long unclear sentences, using unnecessary words, or creating new words. They usually have challenges comprehending the speech of others.

Those with global aphasia have challenges with speaking or understanding language.

How is Aphasia Diagnosed?

Verification of aphasia, degree of the ailment, and prognosis for effective treatment may be assessed and verified by a set of extensive language tests carried out by a speech-language specialist. These tests include the studying of speech, repetition, naming, understanding, reading, and writing. Making a diagnosis might also include the utilization of imaging methods for looking at the brain, like:

  • CT – Computed tomography. This is an imaging test using X-rays and a computer to make comprehensive images of the body. The CT scan indicates details of the bones, fat, muscles, and organs. CT scans are more comprehensive than typical X-rays.
  • PET – Positron emission tomography. A computer-related imaging method using radioactive materials to investigate body processes.
  • MRI – Magnetic resonance imaging. An analytical process that combines radio waves, large magnets, and a computer to create comprehensive images of structures and organs inside the body.

Chaparral Winds Offers The Finest Retirement Living In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a retirement facility in Surprise, Arizona offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. For more information about our senior living facility, SLS Communities or to schedule a tour, please call us today at 623-343-4125.

Aphasia, Dementia, Senior Care
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What is Osteoarthritis?

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most extensive type of arthritis, affecting millions of people across the globe. It transpires when the preventive cartilage that pads the ends of the bones becomes worn over time.

Despite the fact that osteoarthritis can be damaging to any joint, the disease most commonly affects joints in the knees, hands, hips, and spine.

Symptoms of osteoarthritis can usually be regulated, nevertheless, the damage to joints cannot be undone. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, retaining a healthy weight, and receiving appropriate treatments could delay progression of the ailment and help improve pain and joint function.

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis symptoms generally progress slowly and worsen over time. The symptoms of the disease can include:

  • Swelling. This might be caused by soft tissue inflammation around the joint.
  • Stiffness. Joint stiffness could be most obvious when waking up or following being inactive.
  • Loss of Flexibility. You might not be able to move your joints through their full range of motion.
  • Crepitus. You could feel a grinding sensation (crepitus) when using the joint, and you might hear cracking or popping.
  • Bone spurs. These additional pieces of bone, that feel like hard bumps, can form around the affected joint.
  • Tenderness. Your joint might feel tender when placing light pressure on it.
  • Pain. Impacted joints might hurt during or after moving.

When to See a Doctor

When you have stiffness or joint pain that simply does not go away, schedule a visit with your doctor.

Causes of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis transpires when the cartilage that pads the end of bones in your joints after a while deteriorate. Cartilage is a set, slippy tissue that allows nearly frictionless joint motion.

After a while, should the cartilage wear down completely, bone is going to rub on bone.

This is sometimes known as a “wear & tear “ailment. But apart from the breakdown of cartilage, osteoarthritis changes the whole joint. It is going to make changes in the bone and weakening of the joining tissues that hold the joints together and connects muscle to bone. It also produces swelling to the joints lining.

Risk Factors of Osteoarthritis

Factors that might increase your risk of osteoarthritis can include:

  • Older age. The risk of osteoarthritis increases as people age.
  • Gender. Women have more of a possibility to develop osteoarthritis, nevertheless, it’s not known why.
  • Weight. Carrying extra body weight adds to osteoarthritis in various ways, and the more weight you bear, the increase of risk you have. Add weight strains weight-carrying joints, such as your knees and hips. Additionally, fatty tissues produces proteins that can cause harmful inflammation surrounding your joints.
  • Joint injuries. Injuries, such as those that happen when taking part in sports or from accidents, can raise the risk of osteoarthritis. Even those that took place years ago and appear to have healed could also increase your risk.
  • Frequent stress on the joint. should your job or the sport you are involved in places frequent stress on a joint, that joint could ultimately produce osteoarthritis.
  • Genetics. A lot of people inherit a tendency to develop osteoarthritis.
  • Bone abnormalities. A lot of individuals are born with abnormal joints or inadequate cartilage.
  • Particular metabolic diseases. These can comprise of diabetes and a disorder known as hemochromatosis (harmful levels of iron).

Complications of Osteoarthritis

This is a regressive disease that will worsen over time, typically chronic pain accordingly. Joint stiffness and pain can become intense enough to make daily tasks difficult.

Depression and disruption in sleep can result from the pain and debilitation of osteoarthritis.

Chaparral Winds Offers The Finest Retirement Living In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a retirement facility in Surprise, Arizona offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. For more information about our senior living facility, SLS Communities or to schedule a tour, please call us today at 623-343-4125.

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What is Dementia?

What is Dementia

Dementia is the decline of cognitive functioning — remembering, thinking, and reasoning — to such degree that it interferes with an individual’s day-to-day life and activities. Many people with dementia cannot keep their emotions under control, and their personalities could change. Dementia ranges in intensity from the most minimal stage, as it is just starting to impact an individual’s functioning, to the most intense stage, when the individual is required to rely completely on others for basic activities of day-to-day living, like feeding themselves.

Dementia impact millions of people across the globe and is more typical as people get older (around 1/3rd of all individuals aged eighty-five or older may have some type of dementia) but it is not a typical part of getting older. A lot of individuals live into their nineties and beyond devoid of any signs of dementia.

There are several various forms of dementia, like Alzheimer’s, namely the most common.

What are some signs and symptoms of dementia?

The signs and symptoms of dementia take place when formerly healthy neurons in the brain quit working, lose contact with other brain cells, and break down. Whereas everybody loses some neurons as they get older, individuals with dementia endure a much greater loss.

The signs and symptoms can vary subject on the kind and could include:

  • Encountering memory loss, errors in judgment, and confusion
  • Trouble speaking, comprehending and expressing thoughts, or writing and reading
  • Roaming and getting lost in an accustomed neighborhood
  • Difficulty handling money reliably and paying bills
  • Repetitive questioning
  • Using bizarre words to refer to everyday objects
  • Taking more time to finish normal day-to-day tasks
  • Losing interest in common day-to-day events or activities
  • Having hallucinations or experiencing illusions or paranoia
  • Acting recklessly
  • Disinterested in other people’s feelings
  • Falling over and challenges moving

Individuals with developmental and intellectual impairment can also advance in dementia as they get older, and in these circumstances, recognizing their symptoms can be particularly challenging. It’s important to consider an individual’s present abilities and to keep an eye out for changes over time that might be a sign of dementia.

Chaparral Winds Offers The Finest Retirement Living In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a retirement facility in Surprise, Arizona offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. For more information about our senior living facility, SLS Communities or to schedule a tour, please call us today at 623-343-4125.

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10 Safest Places To Live In Arizona

Safest Places To Live In Arizona

If you are planning on living or retiring in Arizona, this list of safest places to live should come in handy!

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What Are The Safest Places To Live In Arizona?

Arizona is currently the 6th-largest state in the country, and is home to 10 of the 500 safest cities in the U.S. Larger cities in Arizona, such as Surprise and Gilbert, are very safe areas for homeowners.

Check out our list of safest places below!

1. Oro Valley, AZ

This affluent suburb of Tucson continues to post low crime numbers each year. Located just six miles from one of the biggest cities in Arizona, Oro Valley’s population has climbed since the year 2000. The small and peaceful town is home to many high tech firms, helping to contribute to the city’s economy. Oro Valley features many parks and recreation choices for its citizens. Residents will feel safe to walk the streets and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Santa Catalina and Tortolita Mountains.

  • Population: 42,258
  • Violent Crimes: 27
  • Violent Crime Trend: n/a

2. Gilbert, AZ

Gilbert has become a mainstay as one of Arizona’s safest places to call home. With another decrease in crime from 2018 to 2019, it’s no wonder why so many individuals are moving to this area. After 2019, Gilbert was the only Arizona city to rank inside the nation’s top 15 safest large cities. Gilbert is currently the 5th-largest municipality in the Phoenix metro area. From 1990 to 2003, Gilbert was actually the fastest growing municipality in the U.S.

  • Population: 247,324
  • Violent Crimes: 177
  • Violent Crime Trend: -19.4%

3. Maricopa, AZ

Maricopa, a city with nearly 50,000 residents, is one of the safest in the Grand Canyon State. In 2018, Maricopa recorded the 2nd-lowest crime rate in the state at 11.9%, according to Alarms. One of the only drawbacks to this town is its lower-than-average ratio of law enforcement officials to citizens. However, there are many active neighborhood watch associations that contribute to the town’s low crime rates.

  • Population: 48,193
  • Violent Crimes: 83
  • Violent Crime Trend: n/a

4. Buckeye, AZ

Buckeye joins Gilbert as one of the safest communities in the Phoenix metro area, among cities with a least 25,000 citizens. Considering Buckeye houses more than 60,000 residents, its safety status becomes even more notable. Builders and developers keep choosing Buckeye for its ideal location and strong economy. Downtown Phoenix is only a half-hour car ride away, so Buckeye offers the charm of small town living with big city amenities.

  • Population: 61,726
  • Violent Crimes: 28
  • Violent Crime Trend: -9.1%

5. Surprise, AZ

Surprise, AZ is statistically one of the safest areas to live in. The total crime rate in Surprise is actually 47% lower than the rest of the state. It’s also nearly 40% lower than the national average. The crime rate in Surprise decreased by 17% in the year 2020. Homes for sale in Surprise remain some of the best values in Arizona, as well. Currently, the median home price is under $200,000. Most importantly, the median age of Surprise homes is only 11 years. Home values continue to explode year-by-year, so there is no better time to buy in this market.

  • Population: 128,525
  • Violent Crimes: 168
  • Violent Crime Trend: 19.3%

Scottsdale AZ

6. Lake Havasu City, AZ

Lake Havasu City has long been a hotbed for tourists from and outside of Arizona. Nowadays, though, it is gaining more of a reputation as a safe and welcoming community space. Lake Havasu City offers a plethora of outdoor activities, making this a great place to raise a young family and put down roots. Enjoy the friendly neighborhoods and some of the best sunset views one can find in the entire country.

  • Population: 53,220
  • Violent Crimes: 93
  • Violent Crime Trend: 5%

7. Peoria, AZ

Peoria was recently named one of the 15 safest cities in America by WalletHub. This city features much lower crime rates than neighboring cities Phoenix, Glendale and Tempe. Peoria continues to be a popular destination for retirees and young families, alike. This city is home to a portion of the MLB’s spring training, as well as numerous top-notch golf courses.

  • Population: 170,222
  • Violent Crimes: 283
  • Violent Crime Trend: 12.2%

8. Chandler, AZ

Chandler is a great city to start and raise a family. With a dense suburban ambience mixed with an inviting environment, Chandler is one of the best places to raise a family in the entire valley. More and more people are choosing to settle in Chandler due to its close location to neighboring cities like Scottsdale, Phoenix, Gilbert and Mesa.

  • Population: 258,875
  • Violent Crimes: 490
  • Violent Crime Trend: 2.5%

9. Marana, AZ

Known mostly for its breathtaking views and numerous outdoor activity options, Marana is also one of the safest cities in the valley. Marana has a public school system consisting of 16 schools. This makes the school system the city’s top employer, and also shows how many families choose to settle here. It’s certainly possible to enjoy cycling and hiking year-round due to Marana’s moderate climate.

  • Population: 41,302
  • Violent Crimes: 30
  • Violent Crime Trend: n/a

10. Scottsdale, AZ

One of the top retirement destinations in the country, Scottsdale is also one of the safest places to live. Scottsdale is renowned for having highly-ranked educational institutions, surrounded by suburban neighborhoods and a low crime rate. Strategically located between the beach and mountain regions, many “snow birds” will flock to Scottsdale during the fall and winter months.

  • Population: 233,872
  • Violent Crimes: 434
  • Violent Crime Trend: n/a

*Population/crime statistics are from SafeHome.

Scottsdale

Retirement Community In Surprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

623-343-4125
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45 Retirement Bucket List Ideas

Retirement Bucket List Ideas

As retirement nears, it might be the perfect time to begin putting together some bucket list ideas. We suggest starting with four categories: travel, adventure, food and legacy.

Travel Bucket List Ideas

Travel is always prioritized by retirees, but where should you start? Think of all the things you’d like to do in the U.S. then go from there. Many retirees choose to purchase an RV and embark on the road trip of a lifetime. Try some of these travel ideas!

❒ Take a cruise to Alaska.

❒ Visit each of the seven wonders of the world.

❒ See the northern lights.

❒ Take a European cruise.

❒ Go on a safari in Africa.

❒ See the Grand Canyon.

❒ Go to Niagara Falls.

❒ Visit every national park.

❒ Visit Machu Pichu.

❒ Buy an RV and take a road trip throughout the U.S.

❒ Visit every one of the 50 states.

❒ Visit your ancestors’ country.

❒ Ride the London Eye.

❒ Revisit the place you took your honeymoon.

❒ Check out the cherry blossoms in Japan.

❒ Spend a night on the Las Vegas strip.

Bucket List Adventure Ideas

Adventure and travel can be combined into one if you choose to add excursions. Always look into excursion possibilities while traveling. What experience could take the trip to the next level? You could climb a mountain or ride in a hot air balloon. Use these suggestions below!

❒ Run a marathon.

❒ Get a tattoo.

❒ Try white water rafting.

❒ Go horseback riding along the beach.

❒ Ride in a hot air balloon.

❒ Climb a mountain.

❒ Do a polar bear plunge.

❒ Take an unplanned plane trip.

❒ Swim with the dolphins.

❒ Take a helicopter ride.

Bucket List Food Ideas

Food is a huge part of life! Make retirement no exception to that as you plan some of your most memorable meals. Always make it a point to try local cuisine wherever you go.

❒ Eat some New York City pizza while in the big apple.

❒ Eat tapas in Barcelona.

❒ Brew your own beer.

❒ Try sushi in Japan.

❒ Tour a vineyard right in the French countryside.

❒ Cook your catch after a fishing trip.

❒ Make your own wine by stomping grapes.

❒ Eat the hottest pepper you can handle.

❒ Extract honey from a beehive.

Legacy Bucket List Ideas

The last section of a retiree’s bucket list should include ideas related to legacy. What do you want to leave behind for your friends and family? Many retirees try to dedicate some time to write down memories from throughout their lifetime. You could either put together some journal entries, start an online blog or write an entire book. Here are a few great legacy ideas below.

❒ Make a family tree.

❒ Write a book.

❒ Start a blog.

❒ Update your will(s).

❒ Create a cookbook of family recipes.

❒ Renew your wedding vows.

❒ Host a yearly family reunion.

❒ Create a scrapbook of memories.

❒ Document your bucket list with a video.

❒ Start new family traditions.

10 Fun Things To Do In Retirement

Chaparral Winds Offers Retirement Living In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds Retirement Community is a retirement community located in Surprise, Arizona offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. For more information about our senior living facility contact SLS Communities or to schedule a tour, please call us today at 623-343-4125.

Retirement
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Regular Post
Written by webtechs

Balance Exercises For The Elderly

Balance Exercises for the Elderly

When we are younger, we take staying straight for granted. Most of us aren’t really concerned about falling over—it usually doesn’t even cross our minds. But as we age, things change. Our body’s systems that recognize gravity, identify precise body positioning any time, and promote stability and balance become less productive. Actually, according to a report from the CDC, an elderly adult falls every single second of every single day in the US. That is why balance exercises for the elderly are so important

  1. Foot Taps

This balance exercise strengthens your core muscles that assists in stabilizing your spine.

How to do it:

  1. Stand straight with your feet shoulder-width apart in front of a step (the bottom step of a staircase is perfect) or even a couple of books or footstool.
  2. When needed, hold on to a wall or a solid piece of furniture to balance you. As you get stronger, carry out the move with nothing to hold onto.
  3. From here, gradually raise your right or left foot (whichever you like) to tap your step in front of you, and then gradually return it to the floor.
  4. Carry out fifteen to twenty taps, then repeating using the opposite leg.

  1. Head Rotations

This balance exercise improves the mobility in your neck, which in turn aids with good balance and posture.

How to do it: 

  1. Stand tall having your feet shoulder-width apart.
  2. When needed, hold on to a wall or a solid piece of furniture to balance. As you get stronger, carry out the move with nothing to hold onto.
  3. From here, gradually move your head from left to right then up and down at the same time keeping your body as still as you can.
  4. Carry this out for thirty seconds, then repeat. Should you get dizzy, pause and move your head more gradually.
  5. When you are still dizzy, discontinue.

  1. Standing Marches

This core-strengthening exercise aids in reinforcing the muscles that support your spine.

How to perform it: 

  1. Standing tall having your feet shoulder-width apart.
  2. When required, hold on to a wall or a solid piece of furniture to balance you. When getting stronger, carry out the move with nothing to hold onto.
  3. From there, raise your right or left knee until your thigh is parallel to the ground (or close to parallel as you can) while trying to keep your torso straight and trying not to lean.
  4. Take a small break, then gradually return your foot to the ground.
  5. Carry out twenty marches, changing legs with each march.

  1. Sit-to-Stands

This balance exercise not only reinforces your core muscles, but is a good option to squats when you have knee issues.

How to do it: 

  1. Standing tall having your back facing a solid chair with your feet shoulder-width separate.
  2. If you need to, hold on a wall or a solid piece of furniture for balance. As you get stronger, carry out the move with nothing to hold onto.
  3. From there, sit back and gradually lower your hips on to the chair as smoothly as you can.
  4. Pause, and avoiding swinging your torso, pushing through with your heels for standing.
  5. Carry out ten repetitions.

  1. Single-Leg Stands

This is a perfect balance exercise to perform whenever you like, like when you’re waiting for your cup of joe.

How to do it: 

  1. Standing tall with your feet shoulder-width apart.
  2. If you need to, hold on to the wall or a solid piece of furniture to balance. As you get stronger, carry out the move with nothing to hold onto.
  3. From there, raise one foot about an inch off the ground at the same time keeping your torso straight and avoiding leaning toward your planted foot.
  4. Hold for ten to fifteen seconds, then gradually return your foot to the ground.
  5. Repeat for your opposite leg.
  6. Carry-out five stands on each leg.

  1. Over Shoulder Walking

This balance exercise requires your body and brain to work in unison to stay upright while carrying out two different tasks at once.

How to do it: 

  1. Standing tall with your feet shoulder-width apart at one area of a room or hallway.
  2. If you need to, hold on to the wall to balance you. As you get stronger, carry out the move with nothing to hold onto. From there, glance behind you over one (right or left) of your shoulders.
  3. Keeping this gaze, take five to six steps forward.
  4. After that, glance over your other shoulder, and take five to six more steps forward.
  5. Carry out five repetitions for each side.

Chaparral Winds Offers Retirement Living In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds Retirement Community is a retirement community located in Surprise, Arizona offering assisted living, independent living, and memory care services. For more information about our senior living facility contact SLS Communities or to schedule a tour, please call us today at 623-343-4125.

Assisted Living, Independent Living, Memory Care, Nursing Home
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