Muscular Dystrophy
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

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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Regular Post
Written by webtechs

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

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, Senior Care
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Regular Post
Written by Brian B

How To Increase Appetite In Elderly

How To Increase Appetite In Elderly

As people age, their appetite tends to decrease. Use our suggestions below to stimulate an elderly person’s appetite.

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Why Do Elderly Citizens Lose Their Appetite?

A slower metabolism overall is one of the most common causes of a loss of appetite in seniors. Older people will become less active as they age, meaning their body will need less fuel to create energy. As the metabolism slows, they will start to eat less.

In other cases, it could be a psychological reason that decreases one’s appetite. Eating alone can sometimes amplify the feeling of loneliness or confusion.

Here are some common reasons why elderly appetites can decrease:

  • Slower metabolism.
  • Lack of routine.
  • Taste bud changes.
  • Dental problems.
  • Medication side effects.
  • Depression.
  • Dementia.

How To Increase Appetite For The Elderly

There are a few different ways to stimulate a senior’s appetite without making any abrupt changes to their daily lives. Try to use these strategies below.

1. Socialize During Meals

Eating meals with new or old friends can stimulate conversation, leading to eating more as individuals get caught up in the moment. Some seniors may respond well to nice settings with soft music when it comes to meal time. It’s no secret that eating most meals alone can be somewhat depressing.

2. Smaller Portions

Seniors can sometimes feel overwhelmed if they are served large portions. They may feel wasteful if they are given large portions and can’t finish the meal. Try serving the senior in your life smaller portions over the course of 5 daily meals instead of 3.

3. Create Routines

Creating a daily routine where snacks and meals are always eaten around the same time helps the body get ready for consumption. As we age, we lose the ability to determine when we are actually hungry.

4. Healthy Snacks

Snacking between meals is a healthy way to stimulate appetite and increase metabolism, as well. Snacks like avocados, mixed nuts, and hard boiled eggs can be consumed between meals.

5. More Exercise

Appetite is closely tied to age and exercise. There are some exercises that can help stimulate an appetite. Strenuous, fast-paced workouts can decrease an appetite. It’s suggested to walk daily in order to increase one’s appetite.

Conclusion

If these tips don’t help stimulate the appetite, it’s suggested to talk to a doctor to make other adjustments. While poor appetite doesn’t always mean there’s a problem, there can be significant effects of poor nutrition. Keep an eye on your loved one’s exercise and eating habits. Help to create the healthiest environment possible for them.

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

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Senior Care
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Regular Post
Written by webtechs

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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Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Why Should Senior Citizens Perform Balance Exercises

Why Should Senior Citizens Perform Balance Exercises

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 senior citizens are so important.

The Importance Of Balance Exercises For Senior Citizens

Good balance is vital to prevent falls, especially for the elderly. Regular exercise paired with a healthy diet, is the best way to ensure you stay healthy for the long run. There are many different balance exercises that are designed specifically for senior citizens.

Older individuals should choose a balance exercise program that works best for their future while anticipating changes in physique. Use these exercises for more than just fall prevention. These activities can be great for getting outdoors and socializing. Many individuals choose to exercise as a form of meditation, as well. Regular exercise is undoubtedly a gateway to better physical and mental health.

Prevent Disease

So many senior citizens exercise daily as a way to prevent disease. Daily exercise can decrease the risk of cancer, diabetes and heart disease.

Daily exercise has been proven to boost immune function by transferring lymph fluids throughout the entire body. Even light exercise, such as walking, can move lymph fluids to keep immunity functioning at a high level, overall.

Decrease Fall Risks

You can greatly decrease your risk of falling by performing regular balance exercises. Unfortunately, senior citizens are at a greater risk of falling and getting injured than any other age bracket. Any exercise done to decrease fall risks can also increase one’s ability to continue living independently.

Fall injuries can result in broken bones, chronic problems and a lower quality of life. Tai Chi and yoga are ideal for the elderly since they are so engaging and practical.

Benefits Of Balance Exercises

There are many benefits associated with performing balance exercises. Let’s take a look at some of the biggest benefits below.

Increase Muscle Mass

Just like younger individuals who work out to increase muscle mass, the same benefit can be applied to seniors who do regular balance exercises. Tacking on muscle mass helps to reduce any pain that could result from a fall or accident.

Better Sleep

It’s no secret that plenty of exercise during the day can help you sleep better at night. Seniors who are battling irregular sleep patterns are often advised to exercise more. Regular exercise alerts the body to the time of the day in order to maintain a healthy circadian rhythm. Going outdoors to get some sun while exercising also helps to regulate sleeping patterns.

Reduce Falling Risks

This may be the biggest benefit for senior citizens today. Avoiding any at-home falls is vital to preserving your body and health. Regular balance exercises are typically the best way to prevent any accidents.

Improve Coordination

Coordination, like balance, is often overlooked. Good coordination can help a senior in distress to roll instead of fall flat. Coordination often occurs without conscious thought or effort.

Better Cognitive Function

People who engage in regular exercise have better overall brain function than those who do not exercise. Exercise promotes the release of neurotransmitters that keep your brain sharp and healthy. Cognitive clarity can help the elderly avoid any potential dangers.

Balance Exercises for the Elderly

Best Balance Exercises For Seniors

Here are five of the top balance exercises for seniors to try at home.

  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 do 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.

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.

Senior Care
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Gray Divorce Guide
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Gray Divorce Guide

Deciding to end a marriage later in life can be very difficult. Many couples, even at advanced ages, are simply unprepared for the unique legal issues that coincide with a divorce. When divorcing, couples must take into account healthcare, retirement savings, insurance, estate planning and social security issues. Senior divorce is now commonly known as “gray divorce.”

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What Is Gray Divorce?

Using the phrase “gray divorce” when referencing a divorce involving spouses over the age of 50 has become a trend lately. This phrase is frequently used to describe divorced couples of the Baby Boomer generation. While the overall divorce rate has steadily declined over the past two decades, the rate has actually doubled for married couples over the age of 50. Let’s look into some of the most common reasons why this is becoming a trend.

Common Gray Divorce Reasons

You may be wondering why so many older couples are filing for divorce these days. Below are a few reasons why gray divorces occur.

Lifestyle

Lifestyles can change dramatically when one or both spouses decide to retire. Ultimately, this can have a negative impact on the marriage overall. Some married couples may find that the increased time spent together does not make them happy.

Empty Nest

Some couples could find that their marriage is not strong enough to survive once the children leave home.

Finances

The majority of couples tend to hold off on filing for divorce until they feel financially stable. Financial stability is seen as more of a female trend these days, as 66 percent of divorces between the ages of 40-69 are initiated by women. This could indicate most women feel most stable at this point in their lives.

Divorce Cycle

It’s no secret that second, third and fourth marriages have lower success rates. Among the Baby Boomer generation, multiple marriages are not uncommon. In fact, the divorce rate for people over the age of 50 with more than one marriage is 2.5 times higher than individuals who have only been married once. If you are remarried and over 64 years old, then your marriage is four times more likely to end in divorce.

Postponed Divorce

Couples with kids will commonly postpone their divorce until the children are grown and/or out of the house.

Dissatisfaction

With the majority of views becoming more relaxed on divorce, more individuals are opting to go through this process at an advanced age.

Impacts Of Gray Divorce

The emotional impacts of a gray divorce will differ based on the individual, of course. Typically, the largest impact a divorce has at an advanced age is on one’s pocketbook. Older individuals will find it difficult to financially recover since there will be less time to do so.

Some elderly couples run into unresolvable issues during retirement, with many factors contributing to the termination of the marriage. Serious financial considerations need to be made for divorcing seniors, such as housing and assets. Housing is a primary concern for all individuals enduring a divorce process.

Gray Divorce Considerations

When filing for divorce later in life, you will have to make a few unique considerations regarding:

  • Income.
  • Retirement.
  • Social Security.
  • Spousal Support.
  • Long-Term Care Options.
  • Insurance Policies.

Chaparral Winds Is An Independent Living Facility In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful independent living facility near Surprise, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Independent Living Facility 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: 16617 N West-Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 544-4777

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Aging
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Levels Of Care For Elderly

This article will detail the six most common levels of elderly care.

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In-Home Care

Often referred to as aging in place, in-home care is designed for elderly citizens who need help around their own homes. Still, these seniors will possess the mental and physical capabilities to survive on their own. This level of care usually consists of daily check-ins, administering personal care and medications.

Staying at home in a comfortable environment is how most seniors prefer to age. In-home care does not tend to last a long time, though. Elderly citizens receiving in-home care typically transition to independent or assisted living communities in the near future.

Independent Living

Many factors can deter seniors in good health from choosing to live in an assisted living facility. One reason may be of the financial burden this housing can put on an individual. Or perhaps you are looking for more of a community with plenty of social interaction. For these reasons, independent living may be the best option possible. Independent living communities generally offer a lot of activities, perfect for social interaction with the same age group.

Independent living gives seniors the freedom they desire. No more housekeeping or meal planning. Instead, they are left to enjoy their day and load their schedule with activities. In addition, most independent living facilities offer a variety of floor plans, which range from large space to small.

No matter the floor plan chosen, a common area will be included in the community. There you will find the community dining area as well as other amenities. Some units may be equipped with their own dining areas for those seeking a little peace and quiet in the evening.

Assisted Living

The biggest benefit of assisted living is the amount of care provided compared to the independent communities. Assisted living facilities are much more attentive since most residents will require more aid. Daily services, such as bathing, laundry, dressing, housekeeping and medical care is offered. Most assisted living facilities will have staff on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Just like independent facilities, assisted living communities provide a whole agenda of group activities for seniors looking for social interaction.

Overall costs can end up as the final factor for those deciding which community to join. Typical costs like rent and utilities are the primary costs of living in an independent facility. The financial responsibilities for an assisted living resident can be much different. Varying meal plans and around the clock medical staff will represent the biggest charges in this community. Typically, due to the services, assisted living communities will cost more than independent facilities.

Respite Care

Respite care is tailored to seniors who are a bit apprehensive about transitioning into either independent or assisted living care. It is also a level of care designed for individuals who may be transition between care stages. Respite care can last anywhere from a month up to a year long. In many ways, respite care is simply a test run to see how comfortable individuals may be at a future facility.

Memory Care

Alzheimer’s and dementia are common types of memory loss conditions that are included in memory care. This specialized care goes through a lot of various services that depend on the severity of the symptoms such as requiring secure settings to prevent wandering.

Memory care goes beyond what is normally offered for assisted living. Meal prep, laundry services, and housekeeping are provided but the level of assistance with daily activities will be increased. Often times, the daily activities are made just to allow the person to reconnect with their favorite hobbies and even interests.

When it comes to recognizing care challenges for those who have Alzheimer’s or dementia, these communities may only provide memory care or for some continuing care communities will have neighborhoods just for memory care. Often times, these communities will have design elements that has shown to lower stress for those who have Alzheimer’s and dementia. These elements could include circular neighborhood designs that allow safe wandering, natural lighting, and memory boxes outside of the room. 6 out of 10 people that have Alzheimer’s will start to wander around, and the community will be designed to lower risks of wandering and that could be adding security alarms on doors or safety checks.

Nursing Home

This type of care is regarded as the most concentrated living situation for seniors today. Nursing home care features more invasive caregiving than any of the other arrangements. Individuals who need frequent hospital visits, with worsening conditions, should opt for nursing home care.

Chaparral Winds Is An Independent Living Facility In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful independent living facility near Surprise, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Independent Living Facility 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: 16617 N West-Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 544-4777

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Senior Care
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Regular Post
Written by Brian B

What Age Can You Stop Filing Income Taxes?

What Age Can You Stop Filing Income Taxes?

For tax year 2021, you can stop filing income taxes at age 65 if:

  • You are 65+, unmarried, and making less than $14,250.
  • You are 65+, married, filing jointly, and making less than $26,450.
  • You are a qualifying widow, earning less than $26,450.
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The IRS will want you to file a tax return whenever your income rises above the total of the standard deduction for your specific filing status, in addition to one exemption amount. These filing rules do still apply to seniors currently living on their Social Security. However, if Social Security happens to be your sole income source, then you do not need to file a tax return.

When Do Seniors Need To File Taxes?

You need to file a tax return if you are 65+ years old, unmarried, and your gross income was $14,250 or higher for the tax year 2021. However, if you live on your Social Security benefits, you do not need to include this in your gross income, according to Turbo Tax. If this is your one and only source of income, your gross income will come out to zero, meaning you do not have to file a federal income tax return. if you earn additional income that is not exempt from being taxed, though, then you must figure out if the yearly total exceeds $14,250.

For previous tax years, these amounts are based on the year’s standard deduction, in addition to the exemption amount for your age and filing status. When you and your spouse are 65+, married, and filing jointly, you must file a return if your combined gross income surpasses $27,800. If your spouse is under the age of 65, then the threshold amount falls to $26,450. Keep in mind these specific income thresholds applied in the 2018 tax year, and typically increase each year.

When To Include Social Security In Your Gross Income

There are a few circumstances that exist when a senior must include Social Security benefits in their gross income. For instance, if you are married, filing an individual tax return, and live with your spouse during the year, 85% of your benefits are deemed gross income. This scenario may call for filing a tax return.

An allotment of your Social Security benefits are included in your gross income, regardless of your status, in any year the total of half your Social Security, including tax-exempt interest, exceeds $25,000 or $32,000, as long as you are married and filing jointly.

What Age Do You Stop Paying Taxes On Social Security?

You may stop paying taxes on Social Security at age 65 as long as your income is not substantial. Turbo Tax provides all the specifics in this article.

Tax Credits For Seniors

There are a few ways to lower the amount you’ll pay on your taxable income. Tax credits are available for individuals ages 65+, earning their own income from alternative sources than Social Security that is not high. Bear in mind the tax credit only comes in handy when you owe the IRS.

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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Senior Care
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Regular Post
Written by webtechs

Checklist For Elderly Living Alone

Checklist For Elderly Living Alone

Use our checklist below to ensure a safe and secure environment for elderly citizens living alone.

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Remove Any Tripping Hazards

An estimated 9,000 senior citizens die every year because of at-home falls, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. You can minimize this risk by removing all loose objects and/or debris from your flooring. Tape or coil all cords and wires securely to the walls. Rugs and carpets should never be loose, regardless of where they are placed in the home. Use nonslip backing to keep these rugs in place.

Keep The Home Well-Lit

You can significantly decrease fall risks by having sufficient lighting throughout the home. Keep staircases and walkways well-lit during the night and day. Installing nightlights throughout the home is always a smart idea. Wireless motion sensor lights are great, as well, and can be installed in bedrooms and bathrooms.

Fire Safety

Fires are another risk for seniors. Have a smoke detector and fire extinguisher on every floor of the home. Make sure these are tested regularly. All doors and windows need to be easy to open from the inside.

Fall Prevention Checklist

Falling at home is the greatest risk seniors face today. Follow our tips below to keep your home safe and secure.

Bedroom Safety

1. ❒ All lightning should be within reach of the bed.

2. ❒ Keep all pathways illuminated at night with nightlights.

Floor Safety

1. ❒ Use nonslip backing to secure rugs.

2. ❒ All walkways should be kept free of any items/clutter.

3. ❒ No loose objects on the floor.

4. ❒ Wires should be taped securely to the walls.

Kitchen Safety

1. ❒ All frequently used items need to be on the lower shelves.

2. ❒ Have a sturdy stool in the kitchen area at all times.

Bathroom Safety

1. ❒ Use grab bars for bathtub/shower entries and exits.

2. ❒ Install grab bars around the toilet.

3. ❒ Use nonstick rubber mats for the tub/shower floor.

Staircase Safety

1. ❒ Fix any broken or uneven steps immediately.

2. ❒ Keep loose objects away from the staircase.

3. ❒ Surround the staircase with sufficient lighting.

4. ❒ Install handrails on both sides of the staircase.

5. ❒ Light switches should be featured atop and at the bottom of the staircase.

Outdoor Safety

1. ❒ All pathways should be well-lit at all times.

2. ❒ Put handrails around the steps.

3. ❒ Keep sideways and pathways clear of any objects.

4. ❒ Repair any broken or uneven steps.

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

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How Much Does Memory Care Cost?

Memory Care Cost

On average, memory care costs about $5,250 in Surprise, AZ for 2021; average memory care prices range from $1,500 to $9,000.

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Memory care facilities are one of the more costly kinds of long-term care. Several factors add to this, including specialized knowledge and training required of staff and increased safeguarding measures. On average, memory care is priced roughly twenty to thirty percent more than an assisted living facility. Taking into account assisted living’s average monthly cost of $4,300 in the US, one can expect to pay around $5,375 each month for memory care.

Prices will be different depending on geographic location, comforts, and care requirement. Whereas many services like meals, management of medication, and community activities are included, others will be optional. As an example, residents could have access to laundry facilities, lunch outings, or beauty services; haircuts and/or manicures, but these could cost extra.

The following are some ways to pay for memory care:

  • Medicare
  • Medicaid
  • Life Insurance
  • Long-Term Care Insurance
  • Reverse Mortgages

Chaparral Winds Offers Memory Care In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a retirement facility in Surprise, Arizona offering memory care, assisted living, and independent living 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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Memory Care, Senior Care
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