Top Safety Tips for Holiday Traveling

The holidays bring families together from near and far.  Sometimes, the travel involved can be hectic and stressful, particularly if you’re traveling with someone who requires additional care. At Bella Vista Health Center, when our residents travel away from our skilled nursing facility to spend time with their families, we do everything we can to help ensure that they have a safe and enjoyable trip. If you are traveling with an elderly companion or someone recovering from an illness or injury, take a look below at our top safety tips for holiday traveling. 

#1. Book non-stop flights if possible

If you’ve ever traveled, then you know how much stress each leg of the trip can add to the overall experience. For seniors and anyone else who needs a little more time to get from point A to point B, dashing through the airport to catch the next flight is downright draining, even in a wheelchair. If you can, book non-stop flights and schedule plenty of downtime between each leg of the journey.

#2. Reserve special services in advance

Ask the airline about the availability of special seating assignments, early boarding, wheelchair service, or dietary accommodations to ensure the needs and comfort of your travel companion. 

#3. Arrange for medication management

If you’re traveling with someone who needs assistance with medication, be sure to get clear, written instructions on exactly what’s needed, when, and how often.  Keep a log, and designate a family member to help make sure your loved one stays on track with medication. 

#4. Keep track of meals

Healthy nutrition is an important part of healing, maintaining energy levels, and achieving optimal health. If you’re traveling with someone who is healing from an injury or surgery, or has special dietary requirements, ask the staff of the skilled nursing facility about their meal plan. Take notes and write down what foods to avoid, what kinds of snacks to have on hand, and how best to ensure that your loved one gets the necessary nutrition while traveling. 

#5. Rent additional equipment if necessary

If you plan to do some sightseeing while you’re traveling with someone who may be vulnerable to falls or accidents, you may want to consider renting a wheelchair or mobile scooter even if your loved one is perfectly mobile. A long day of walking at the zoo or other attraction may be too much. Providing additional supportive equipment can help keep them safe and comfortable. 

#6. Plan for transportation

When planning for outings and other activities, be sure to consider that transportation needs may be somewhat altered by the addition of a wheelchair or other mobile device.  In other words, if everyone crams into Uncle Eddie’s car to pick up Grandma at the airport, there may not be enough room in the trunk for her suitcases and her collapsible wheelchair. 

#7. Keep activities to a minimum

Even if your family likes to keep it moving at all times, it’s important to remember that not everyone has the same stamina. Try keeping activities to a minimum, especially when you’re traveling with someone who needs more downtime or moves more slowly for whatever reason. Allow for ample time to rest, eat, and take it easy. 

#8. Consider a cruise

Traveling by cruise is a great way to bring whole families together and provide a range of activities for various energy levels. A walk on the upper decks can give Grandma and Grandpa just the right amount of sun and activity while the teenage cousins tackle the 300-foot waterslide. 

#9. Designate a companion

Even if family members split up for various activities, it’s important that everyone feels included and welcome. If anyone in the group requires additional assistance or extra downtime, be sure they always have someone to keep them company and help them in any way needed. 

#10. Plan for emergencies

Of course, the hope is that everything will go smoothly on your travels and that your loved one will return home healthier and happier than when he or she left. But unfortunately, nothing is certain.  When traveling with someone recovering from a stroke, for example, or someone who is prone to injuries or health problems, it’s important to have emergency phone numbers and a plan in place.  Talk to your loved one’s doctor about what to do and who to call should anything unexpected arise.  

The health, safety, and comfort of your loved one are our top priorities. 

At Bella Vista Health Center in San Diego, we pride ourselves in providing every single resident with top-notch skilled nursing services to help them live their best lives. Special time spent with families is an important component of living a high quality of life. Of course we understand that travel is not possible for everyone, and we’re more than happy to welcome family members to come celebrate the holidays at our facility. Should you decide to travel with your resident, on the other hand, we’ll do all we can to help you ensure their comfort and safety. If you need more information, just give us a call. 

Looking for a skilled nursing facility in San Diego? Come see the Bella Vista difference. 

Tips for a Healthy Fourth of July

The Fourth of July is a chance for all Americans to honor the founding of our nation, but for some citizens, celebrating all day and into the night can pose certain health risks. With a little preparation and flexibility, senior citizens, nursing home residents, and people recovering from recent illness or injury can have as much patriotic fun as everyone else. Here are some tips for celebrating a healthy Fourth of July:
 

Tip #1: Bring a healthy dish to share
 

Whether you attend a barbecue, picnic, or gathering at the beach, food is usually the centerpiece of Fourth of July celebrations. But unless you coordinate with the host beforehand and know the menu, it’s a good idea to bring a healthy dish or two to share that complies with your dietary or other medical restrictions. Fresh fruits and vegetables are always a good bet, and pasta salads are a healthy, filling alternative to fatty meats and high-calorie side dishes.
 

Tip #2: Avoid food that’s been sitting out
 

Perishable food like potato salad, dips, and cooked meats should not sit out for more than two hours, according to US FDA suggestions. And while everyone should avoid eating possibly contaminated food, food poisoning is especially dangerous for seniors and others who are not in tip-top health. So if you notice that food has been lingering on the picnic table all afternoon, resist that second plate of chips and dip—and give the host a head’s up while you’re at it.

 
Tip #3: Limit or avoid alcohol
 

Alcoholic drinks might be a staple of summer celebrations, but they can adversely affect many types of medication and exacerbate certain medical conditions. If you’re not sure whether the party you’re attending will have healthy non-alcoholic drinks—sugary drinks should also be avoided, if possible—bring some iced tea or diet soda to sip during the day.
 

Tip #4: Drink plenty of water
 

In addition to healthy beverages, be sure drink water throughout the day—better yet, keep a water bottle nearby at all times to remind you to hydrate. Dehydration can lead to serious medical issues, especially for senior citizens, who are more vulnerable to heat-related illness like heat exhaustion and heat stroke. 
 

Tip #5: Slather on the sunscreen
 

While most seniors were not exactly vigilant about sunscreen in their youth, skin becomes more delicate with age and needs more protection than ever from the sun’s dangerous UV rays. Apply sunscreen prior to your arrival at a Fourth of July event and bring extra to reapply during the day. You can also bring an umbrella or hat for extra shade, and wear special lightweight clothing that has built-in UV protection.
 

Tip #6: Bring your own seating
 

Most backyard barbecues and other Fourth of July celebrations have plenty of seating available, but senior citizens and those recovering from illness or injury should bring their own portable chair to ensure there is always a place to sit and rest as needed. There are many lightweight foldable chairs on the market, some with shoulder straps or carrying cases for easy transportation.
 

Tip #7: Bring ear plugs
 

Aside from an abundance of food, the one thing most Fourth of July celebrations have in common is a fireworks show at night. And while fireworks are undeniably beautiful and exciting, they can also cause serious damage to your ears, especially for senior citizens and others with already-compromised hearing. A set of high-quality earplugs will allow you to enjoy the show without worry.
 

Healthy lifestyles are our priority year-round
 

At Bella Vista Health Center, we understand the importance of a healthy lifestyle for all our skilled nursing facility residents, whether they are receiving short-term or long-term care. That’s why we offer comprehensive services and amenities at our 5-Star skilled nursing facility in San Diego including free concierge services, salon services, a yoga and meditation center, and activities that focus on the mind, body, and spirit. If you or a loved one is in need of the best skilled nursing facility in the area, give us a call at (619) 644-1000 for a tour or fill out our contact form for more information today.
 
 
 

Father’s Day Gift Ideas for Nursing Home Residents

Father’s Day gifts were easy when we were kids—a hand-drawn card, a clay ashtray, or a silly tie did the trick, earning a smile and a pat on the head every year. Shopping for Father’s Day gifts as an adult is a little more complicated, especially if your father is currently residing in a skilled nursing facility with limited space to store personal belongings. If you’re struggling to find a gift this Father’s Day that will be appreciated while fitting in with Dad’s new living situation, here are some suggestions that frequently top the wish lists of nursing home residents:
 

1. Games and puzzles

Keeping the mind sharp is a high priority for senior citizens, so one of the best gifts you can give is a variety of games and puzzles to keep your father mentally spry and entertained at the same time. Ideas include large-print crossword puzzles, Sudoku, jigsaw puzzles, dominoes, cribbage, Boggle, Scrabble, and playing cards for Gin, Go Fish, Solitaire, and other fun games.

 

2. Bird feeder

Even if your father has a lovely view outside his room window, looking at the same tree or hedge can get boring at times. Bird feeders will liven up the view with a parade of beautiful flying creatures dining on seeds, nuts, or sugar water, depending on which species you’re trying to attract. As a bonus, you can give Dad a birding book specific to the local area so he can identify and learn about his new feathered friends.

 

3. Magazine subscriptions
 

Despite the slow decline of print content, there still seems to be a magazine for virtually every interest. Whether your father loves news, sports, cars, science, art, or any one of the thousands of other hobbies and topics covered by niche magazines, a subscription is the gift that keeps on giving—he’ll eagerly anticipate each new volume throughout the year. 
 

4. Nostalgic playlists
 

A great nostalgic gift idea for your father is to make a few CDs with playlists full of music from his favorite era, and include a portable CD player if he doesn’t already have one. Listening to Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, Nat King Cole, or even the Beatles and Elvis if he’s a “younger” senior citizen will transport him back to his heyday, likely sparking memories he thought he forgot for good.
 

5. Photo book
 

Your father might not have much room for framed photos in his nursing facility room, so a great way to ensure he has plenty of family photos to peruse and share with fellow residents is to create a photo book from one of several online services. Aside from snaps of the grandkids, another photo book option is to use photos from Dad’s youth and old family photos from when you were a kid, which will preserve the originals while creating a gift your father will treasure forever.
 

6. Tablet with Internet connection
 

If the nursing facility in San Diego where your father lives has wi-fi access, you can get him a tablet device like an iPad if your budget permits. The touch screen and user-friendly apps can allow him to send email, join social media groups, video chat with the grandkids, and even read books (another great space-saving option). Of course, unless your father is already Internet savvy, it’s important to give him a brief tutorial on scams and how to avoid them, as senior citizens are frequent targets.
 

The best gift is the gift of your time
 

At Bella Vista Health Center, the gift idea that tops nearly all our resident wish lists is the gift of time with their loved ones. Frequent visits, an occasional lunch out, or even a daily phone call means more than any present they can hold in their hands. 
 
Of course, busy lifestyles prevent many loved ones from visiting as much as they’d like, which is why we strive to give our residents the best skilled nursing facility experience. We provide a variety of enriching activities and exclusive amenities to create a “home away from home” environment at our 5-Star skilled nursing facility. If you have questions about our services or you’re interested in a tour, call us at (619) 399-7920 or fill out our contact form today.
 
 
 

8 Summer Activities for Nursing Facility Residents

For most people, summer is synonymous with fun-filled days and exciting nights, especially in a tourist haven like San Diego. But squeezing the most out of summer can be challenging for nursing facility residents, whether they are receiving short-term or long-term care. Meaningful activities are crucial to preserving a high quality of life, and nursing facility activities that reach beyond the basics (bingo, crafts, board games, etc.) have the best chance of providing the emotional and social support that are necessary supplements to rehabilitative medical care.

Because some nursing facility residents might have limited physical or cognitive abilities, the most effective—and fun—group activities are structured such that all residents are included, whether they participate or just observe. For some examples, here are 8 great nursing facility activities for summer:

1. “Drive-in” movie

For nursing facility residents of a certain age, drive-in theaters are reminiscent of summer fun, first dates, and even first kisses. Nursing facilities can recreate the experience on a warm summer night with lawn chairs instead of cars, a white sheet hung on an outdoor wall in place of a movie screen, and a rented projector. As for the movie, black-and-white classics are always a great choice, but newer films that residents might have missed in the theaters are a wonderful option as well.

2. Garden party

Beautiful summer weather means the perfect opportunity for an old-fashioned garden party. Nursing facility staff members can set up tables with decorative coverings and vases with flowers, and offer fancy sweets, savory snacks, and refreshing ice-cold beverages. Activities may include dancing, flower-arranging competitions, or decorating straw hats with flowers, ribbons, feathers, and beads.

3. Kite flying

If you think kites are for kids, you must not be aware of the many adult kite-flying competitions that take place across the world. Kite flying is fun and peaceful, and kites are inexpensive and widely available at most discount stores and drugstores. All that’s required to fly them is a wide-open space and a little wind. Whether residents are participating or observing, the rainbow of beautiful flying colors can transport them back to the lazy summer days of childhood.

4. Hawaiian luau

A trip to the beach might not be feasible for nursing facility residents, so why not bring the beach to them? Residents can wear leis, dance to music by Don Ho, and feast on traditional Hawaiian luau food like roast pork, teriyaki chicken, and fruit kebabs. Other fun activities include setting up plastic kiddie pools full of damp sand and offering a variety of sand castle molds, or bringing in a professional hula dancer to teach residents some moves.

5. Karaoke

There’s no such thing as bad singing if it comes from the heart, and karaoke nights are a great way to allow residents to let loose and show off their personality. Song choices should span decades to include everyone’s preferences; songs by Frank Sinatra, Elvis, and Carole King are popular favorites. Activity directors can set up the event as a free-for-all, or structure it more like an “American Idol” type of competition, which is a blast for participants and observers alike.

6. Prom night

Although high school proms typically take place in late spring, warm summer nights are perfect for an outdoor dance under the stars. Some local thrift stores may be willing to donate gowns and suits to the nursing facility, and local salons may offer the services of a few stylists to provide prom-worthy hair and makeup. To complete the theme, set up a prom photo area with a sparkly backdrop and print out copies for residents to keep.

7. Ice cream social

Ice cream socials might be a bit old fashioned, but who doesn’t love ice cream in the summer? Nursing facilities can offer a variety of ice cream flavors, as well as low fat, sugar-free, lactose-free and vegan options to accommodate residents’ nutritional requirements. And don’t forget all the toppings: hot fudge, caramel, whipped cream, cherries, sprinkles, peanuts, mini marshmallows, and anything else that would make a delicious sundae. 

8. Scavenger hunt

Scavenger hunts are a great physical and cognitive activity for nursing facility residents, and they tend to bring out the competitive spirit in most players. Scavenger hunts involve teams with instructions and a list of clues, which send them racing to find the same or different items before the other teams do. Prizes can be awarded to the winners, and residents who aren’t able to participate in the actual hunt can help devise the clues.

Rehabilitative care for optimal health and quality of life

If you are looking for a nursing facility in San Diego, Bella Vista Health Center offers short and long-term rehabilitative care with programs designed to empower our residents to reach their maximum potential. Our 5-Star Skilled Nursing Facility in Lemon Grove features a wide range of amenities, including fun activities, nutritious meals, and convenient concierge services. 
At Bella Vista Health Center, we take a holistic approach to wellness that addresses the mind, body, and spirit. To learn more about our facility and rehabilitation programs, give us a call at (619) 644-1000 or fill out our form to schedule a tour.
 

Fall Activities for Short-Term Care Facilities

Fall Activities for Short-Term Care Facilities

Fall is here, and while you wouldn’t know it from the San Diego weather, you can still celebrate the idea of the season with pumpkin spice lattes, harvest décor, and cozy sweaters on those rare chilly nights. It’s also a great excuse for fall-themed activities at short-term care facilities, so if you or a loved one is eager to get into the autumn spirit, check out these festive ideas.

Fall Foliage Tour

You might spot a color-changing maple tree or two in most San Diego metro and inland areas, but a field trip just a short drive east will offer plenty of fall foliage and outdoor activities to enjoy. Julian in November is ideal, when vibrant autumn colors are at their peak and there’s an actual crispness in the air. It’s the perfect complement to a steaming cup of the quaint town’s famous apple cider.

Fall Crafts

Whether you collect leaves of deep red, fiery orange, or glorious gold on a fall foliage tour or at the silk flower section of your local craft shop, there are infinite ways to utilize them in festive fall crafts. Leaf wreaths and garlands, leaf-print t-shirts, decorative banners, and more will stir up creativity and promote engagement, which is invaluable to those in short- and long-term care facilities.

Festive Treats

‘Tis the season for pumpkin spice everything, so if you’re visiting someone in a short-term care facility, you can round up recipes for pumpkin spice cookies, muffins, breads, and pies to share with everyone. And the season doesn’t need to be limited to dessert. Many varieties of squash are available now, perfect for warm and cozy soups and stews.

Apple Pie Bake-Off

Nearly every baker out there has “the best” apple pie recipe, so put those claims to the test! Gather up a selection of apple varieties (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are excellent for pies) and the rest of the basic ingredients for the filling and crust. Judging can be done by a select few or chili-cook-off style where everyone participates. This is a wonderful festive activity for a short-term care facility. And regardless of the outcome, everyone gets delicious homemade apple pie so everyone wins.

Trick or Treating

Obviously this doesn’t mean sending seniors out in costume knocking on doors, but it does mean bringing costumed trick-or-treaters to them. Care facilities often contact a nearby elementary school, preschool, daycare, or recreation center and invite a group of adorable little ghosts and ghouls for a “bonus” trick-or-treat at the facility. Residents get a kick out of handing out candy or small toys to the little ones. For many, it brings back wonderful memories. It also promotes a sense of belonging in the larger community. 

Costume Party

Who says dressing up is reserved for kids? Scour thrift stores for actual Halloween costumes and pieces that can be combined into costumes and let residents pretend they’re something or someone new for a night. Add music, festive treats, and some “witch’s brew” punch, and you’ll have a party everyone will be talking about until Easter.

Classic Monster Movie Night

Horror flicks today are often too scary for most grown adults, but everyone enjoys classic monster movies from Hollywood’s Golden Age. Scare up a few like Frankenstein, Invasion of the Body Snatchers, Creature from the Black Lagoon, and more—a perfect addition to a costume party.  

Knit Hats and Scarves

It might not be that cold out yet, but as soon as November or December, San Diego will be much nippier at night. Supply yarn for residents who knit (they can also teach others as well) and whip up a batch of cozy hats and scarves for the other residents. As a bonus, they can knit extra to donate to local homeless shelters or schools for disadvantaged kids.

Celebrate the season at Bella Vista

At Bella Vista Health Center in Lemon Grove, we understand the importance of offering a variety of activities and opportunities for our guests, and we love to see the joy on their faces when the festivities get underway. 

If you or a loved one is need of a skilled nursing facility, please call us today at (619) 644-1000 or drop by and see us. 

Tips for Staying in Touch with Long-Distance Family and Friends

Tips for Staying in Touch with Long-Distance Family and Friends

We’ve all had those relationships with either a friend or a family member that has grown apart due to distance. It’s tough to stay connected to another person when they’re hundreds, if not thousands of miles away. Everybody leads their own busy lives and it makes it extremely difficult to try and coordinate your chaotic schedule with someone else’s chaotic schedule just to have a couple moments of catch-up time. 

Nobody wants an important relationship to dwindle just because distance is now an issue that comes into play. Follow these tips for staying in touch and connected with long-distance family members and friends:

#1 Visit Each Other

Take turns visiting each other. If your friend or family member moved to a new city, this will give you the opportunity to see what goes on in their lives on a daily basis. You’ll actually get to physically see and experience the delicious coffee shop on the corner that they’ve talks about all the time instead having to rely on how you pictured it in your head. 

If you’re the one who moved to a new location, visiting your loved one will be a nice way to reconnect with your old town and reminisce about the good memories you shared there together. 

#2 Plan Skype Dates

Sometimes, talking on the phone just doesn’t cut it. Plan a recurring time that works for both of you to sit down and have a Skype session. It makes such a difference being able to physically see the other person and be able to interact with them “face to face”. When choosing a weekly/monthly time to Skype with each other, be conscious of potential time differences and try your hardest to make this virtual encounter a priority every time. 

Being able to actually see facial expressions, hand gestures and overall body language makes it easier for you to feel connected and closer to your long-distant friend or family member. 

#3 Write Each Other Letters

Everyone loves getting mail, right? Even better is when you receive an unexpected letter from a long-distant relative or best friend. This doesn’t have to be a regularly scheduled occurrence. If you’re out and about and come across a card that made you laugh, write a nice message and send it to your friend so they can enjoy it as well.

#4 Keep Up with Each Other’s Daily Lives

When catching up with a long-distance family member or friend, make sure you are catching up on the little things going on in their life, instead of just focusing on the big updates like job offers and new love interests. Keeping up-to-date with the small details of their life such as a new recipe they tried out the other night or a kickboxing studio they’ve been thinking about joining will ensure that your relationship is as strong as ever before. 

#5 Take Trips Together

Not only is it important for you and your friend/relative to visit each other, but taking trips together where you will share adventures is a fun and exciting way to stay connected. This doesn’t have to be some long and extravagant vacation. Even something as simple as a relaxing weekend getaway to Palm Springs or a fun weekend ski trip will do the job. It’s more exciting if you pick a place where neither of you have been, that way you can share the new experience together. 

#6 Send Each Other Care Packages

I’m sure there are many things that your friend or family member are missing that they can’t get in their new town. Or maybe you’re the one in a new place and want to send some goodies to your loved one so they can get a feel for what your place of residence has to offer. Every once in awhile, gather a few of each other’s favorite things and send your friend or family member a thoughtful care package to make your bond even stronger.

Bella Vista Health Center Wants to Help Keep You Connected

Here at Bella Vista Health Center, we offer visiting hours 24/7 so your friends and family can keep connected with you at any time. We also provide multiple social activities on a daily basis so there’s always something fun to do with your visitors while you recover back to your personal best.