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How The Ashford Eases the Burden for the Sandwich Generation

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Are you part of the “sandwich generation,” balancing the demands of caring for both your children and aging parents? If you’re in your 50s and feeling the pressure of managing multiple responsibilities, you’re not alone. Many adults are finding themselves caring for aging parents while still raising their own families. This can be an overwhelming time, but at The Ashford, we’re here to help ease that burden.

The Challenges of the Sandwich Generation

As life expectancy increases, more people are facing the challenge of providing care for elderly parents while still being actively involved in their children’s lives. The emotional, financial, and physical demands of being a caregiver for both generations can leave you feeling stretched thin. Whether your parents need help with daily tasks, medical care, or just a safe and supportive community, the stress of ensuring they’re well taken care of can affect your overall well-being.

How The Ashford Can Help

At The Ashford, we understand the unique challenges of this phase in life, and we’re here to support both you and your loved ones. Our senior living community offers a range of care options that give you peace of mind while ensuring your parents receive the attention and support they deserve.

  1. Customized Care Options
    Whether your parent is looking for more independence in independent living, needs some help with daily activities in assisted living, or requires specialized care for memory issues*, our tailored services allow them to thrive.
  2. Compassionate and Experienced Staff
    Our dedicated team is passionate about providing high-quality care with a personal touch. You can rest easy knowing your parents are in good hands with caregivers who genuinely care about their well-being.
  3. A Vibrant Community
    Seniors at Wallick aren’t just cared for—they’re engaged in a vibrant community full of social activities, wellness programs, and events that enrich their lives and keep them connected with others.
  4. Award-Winning Facilities
    Our senior living communities have been recognized for excellence in care and service. With state-of-the-art amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, your parents will feel right at home in a safe, secure, and comfortable environment.

Why Choose The Ashford?

Choosing a senior living community is a big decision. By partnering with The Ashford, you’re choosing a team that prioritizes your loved ones’ comfort, dignity, and happiness. We offer:

  • Personalized care plans to meet the specific needs of your parents.
  • Continuum of care that adapts as your parents’ needs change over time.
  • Peace of mind for you, knowing that they are safe, well cared for, and thriving.

Relieve the Stress and Find Support

Caring for elderly parents can be demanding, but you don’t have to do it alone. Let us be your partner in providing compassionate, professional care for your loved ones so you can focus on your own family and well-being.

To learn more about how we can help or to schedule a tour of one of our communities, contact us today. Let us show you how we can make this stage of life easier for both you and your parents.

*not available at all communities

Adjusting to Senior Living at The Ashford

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With any move, there can be stages of adjustment. For older adults, that transition can look different. Making the move into a senior living community can be prompted by a variety of challenging lifestyle changes, but senior living is meant to uplift and benefit your later stages of life.

Here are some ways to help adjust to senior living and make the most out of this period of your life.

Explore What Your Community Has to Offer

Push yourself to explore the community so you can become more accustomed to the senior living lifestyle. From there, it is easier to find a routine, get settled and start enjoying this new chapter. There are opportunities to expand your social activity with shared community spaces and events, but balance is also accessible with private rooms. Our senior living communities are built to sustain a happy and healthy lifestyle so that you can keep enjoying life.

Give Yourself Time to Adjust

Knowing that every day may not look the same is important to keep in mind when moving into a senior living community. It takes time to feel comfortable and adjusted to a new place. Many experts suggest that it can take 3-6 months to adjust to senior living, but Wallick Senior Living communities are equipped to help personalize the adjustment process. That way, you can focus on yourself and how you spend your time. From art classes to cooking classes, Wallick offers residents the choice to participate in activities that fit their interests.

Reflect on Your Previous Environment

In moments of change, it’s beneficial to reflect on what usually makes you feel comfortable. Try to emulate that feeling in your new home. Reflecting on the best parts of your previous home can also make you feel more comfortable with that chapter’s ending and the beginning of a new one.

We hope that when you open the door to your new home, you feel a sense of peace and belonging. These tips are here to encourage you to make active choices to embrace the senior living lifestyle.

To learn more about adjusting to senior living and the moving process, click here.

Managing Stress with Summer Activity

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Stressors in the Later Parts of Life

Entering the elderly stages of life comes with new varieties of change. Some may deal with the loss of loved ones, health conditions, loneliness and other changes. Change could also bring on feelings of stress because of its disruptions to routines and needs. The National Council on Aging (NCOA) discusses the dynamic between aging and the stress that this period of life can bring.

During this period of life, it becomes important to manage stressors in a healthy way. For everyone, this can look different. One factor that adds complexity to life stress and our ability to manage it, especially as we age, is seasonal weather changes.

Embracing Routines in Senior Living

The summer heat can make it harder to indulge in our favorite routines, from daily walks to spending time with loved ones. Our senior living communities are here to help you adjust to these changes and continue to enjoy every day. We understand the importance of maintaining routines and their direct impact on overall wellness.

If there are added limitations to residents’ activities due to weather, we are prepared to provide comfortable and enjoyable alternatives. Our activities directors are aware of how changes in the seasons may affect stress. We always plan a diverse calendar of indoor activities for residents, providing the same level of stress reduction and mental stimulation as their usual routines that might be affected by high temperatures.

Having different coping strategies is one way that you can stay on top of managing stress during this period in your life. Here are some ideas for finding new stress-reducing habits outside of community activities.

  • Visit with peers to share advice and new interests.
  • Take proper precautions when going outside, like staying hydrated, monitoring medication effects and spending time in the shade outside.
  • Try new television programs, books, and games to occupy your time.

When possible, our communities are prepared to help you stick to your routine. In a recent interview with Channel 2 (WDTN), Sara Ward, The Ashford of Beavercreek Executive Director, spotlighted the Wallick Senior Living team’s dedication to helping residents beat the summer heat while allowing them to enjoy their favorite activities.

“In a heat wave like this, we’re going to make sure that if a resident wants to sit outside or wants to go on a walk, that we’re checking on them more frequently. We are making sure that they have water for their walk,” she said.

Keeping an Open Mind

Moments of change can be difficult to manage when your self-care is at stake, but it is important to know that stress during this period in your life is still normal. It will be helpful to continue being gracious with yourself and to try new things.

One of the beautiful things about being a part of a senior living community is that some of the burden of managing change is taken off residents. Our associates are here to uplift our community members and encourage them to reduce stress in the areas where we can.

Learn more about the activities we have planned by viewing our community updates located here.

Wallick Senior Living Featured on NBC4’s Daytime Columbus

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“In making a transition to a community like one of ours, you’re surrounded by people, you’re surrounded by activities, you’re surrounded by possibilities.”

Wallick Senior Living was featured on Daytime Columbus! Check out the full interview here, where Adam Squires, Regional VP of Sales, and Kimberly Gibson, Executive Director of The Ashford at Sturbridge, shed light on the genuine wellness and mission-focused aspects of our communities.

Discover the Perfect Senior Living Option at The Ashford

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At The Ashford, we know that choosing the right retirement living arrangement is a significant decision and that understanding senior living can be overwhelming. We are dedicated to providing a nurturing environment tailored to meet the unique needs of our senior residents. Below is an overview of our offerings: Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care.

Independent Living: Our Independent Living apartments are designed for seniors who are self-sufficient and want to enjoy a worry-free lifestyle. Residents have access to a range of amenities, including housekeeping, dining options, social activities, and fitness programs, all within a secure and vibrant community.

Assisted Living: For those who need a bit of extra help with daily activities, our Assisted Living offering gives personalized support. Our professional staff is available 24/7 to assist with tasks such as bathing, dressing, medication management, and more, ensuring residents maintain their independence while receiving the care they need.

Memory Care: Our Memory Care program is specifically designed for individuals with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other memory-related conditions. We provide a safe and structured environment with specialized care plans, therapeutic activities, and highly trained staff to support the unique needs of each resident, promoting their well-being and quality of life.

At The Ashford, we are committed to creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere where our residents can thrive. We invite you to visit our community, meet our team, and see firsthand the exceptional care and services we provide.

Please feel free to reach out to us here to schedule a tour or if you have any questions. We look forward to the opportunity to assist you in finding the perfect living arrangement for your loved one.

Senior Living | The Ashford

Initiating a Thoughtful Conversation About Senior Living

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As we transition into the Summer season, I wanted to reach out and share some insights that might be helpful if you’re considering senior living for yourself or a loved one.

This season of warmth and family time can also serve as a time of reflection, particularly regarding the health and well-being of our family members as they age. It’s not uncommon to notice changes or challenges that may indicate a need for extra assistance or a transition to a senior living community.

If you’ve recently spent time with a loved one and found yourself contemplating their future living arrangements, I understand that broaching this subject can feel delicate yet necessary. Here are some tips to help navigate this conversation with empathy, respect, and understanding:

  1. Choose the Right Time and Place: Find a quiet, comfortable setting where you can talk openly and without distractions, ensuring there’s enough time for a heartfelt discussion.
  2. Express Your Concerns with Love: Start by expressing your love and concern, using “I” statements to share observations and feelings, emphasizing your desire to ensure their safety and happiness.
  3. Focus on Specific Observations: Share specific instances or observations from your time together, avoiding accusations and instead offering genuine concerns based on what you’ve observed.
  4. Acknowledge Their Feelings: Recognize that this is a sensitive topic and allow your loved one to express their emotions without judgment, reassuring them that their feelings are valid and important.
  5. Present Senior Living Options Positively: Research senior living communities in advance and highlight the benefits they offer, focusing on the opportunities for social engagement, professional care, delicious meals and enhanced quality of life.
  6. Involve Them in the Decision-Making Process: Make your loved one an active participant in the decision-making process and tours; discussing options together and addressing any concerns they may have.

Initiating a conversation about senior living can be challenging, but it’s an important step toward ensuring the well-being and happiness of your loved one. By approaching the discussion with empathy and patience, and by involving them in the process, you can help ease the transition and create a plan that prioritizes their genuine wellbeing.

If you have any questions or would like further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to support you every step of the way!

Simplifying the Transition to Senior Living: Downsizing with Grace and Purpose

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As you consider retirement communities, navigating the process of downsizing can feel overwhelming. Rest assured, you’re not alone on this journey. Our compassionate team here at The Ashford is here to support you every step of the way. Let’s explore how you can approach downsizing with grace and purpose, making the transition smoother and more meaningful.

Embracing the Journey

Moving to a senior living community like ours marks a new chapter in life, filled with opportunities for growth and connection. Embrace this transition as a chance for you or your loved one to simplify your surroundings and focus on what truly matters. Yes, the change may be uncomfortable but there is so much to look forward to.

Creating a Plan

Start by creating a personalized downsizing plan. Break the task into manageable steps and set aside dedicated time each day or week to sort through belongings. Start with one room and create Keep, Donate, and Get Rid Of piles. Remember to clearly label boxes. It may be best to begin with less emotionally charged areas and gradually move on to sentimental items.

Discerning What Matters Most

View downsizing as a process of discernment rather than deprivation. Consider what possessions, whether it’s a favorite cozy sweater or a treasured piece of wall art, bring comfort, utility, or a sense of connection. Choose items that serve both practical and sentimental purposes, keeping in mind the space constraints and lifestyle offered by your new home in a senior living setting. It’s like going to college or moving away from home – take what you need and what will serve you best in this new chapter.

Preserving Memories

As you declutter, take the time to reminisce and share stories with loved ones. Preserve the essence of significant moments even as you simplify your physical surroundings. Photographs, letters, and keepsakes can be cherished in memory books or digitized for easy access.

Seeking Support

Don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family members, or professional organizers if needed. Surround yourself with positivity and encouragement, celebrating each small victory along the way. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress and peace of mind.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Approach downsizing with confidence and purpose, knowing that you’re paving the way for a brighter, more fulfilling future in a new environment. Embrace the opportunity to experience joy, living life on your terms and forming blossoming connections that await you in our senior living community.

If you have any questions or concerns as you navigate senior living options, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our team at The Ashford is here to listen, support, and guide you through this journey with empathy and understanding.

Feel free to get in touch and explore our independent living, assisted living and memory care options by scheduling a tour at one of our communities today! Reach out to us here.

Navigating the Conversation: Discussing Senior Living After the Holidays

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The holiday season is a time for joy, reflection, and spending precious moments with loved ones. However, it can also be a period when we notice changes in the health and well-being of our family members, especially as they age. If you’ve spent the holidays with a loved one and observed signs that they may need extra assistance or can no longer live independently at home, initiating a conversation about moving into a senior living community is a delicate but crucial step.

Here are some thoughtful tips on how to approach this conversation with empathy, respect, and understanding:

1. Choose the Right Time and Place: Begin the conversation in a quiet and comfortable environment where you can talk privately without distractions. Ensure there is enough time for an open and honest discussion, avoiding busy or stressful periods.

2. Express Your Concerns with Love: Start the conversation by expressing your love and concern for their well-being. Use “I” statements to share your observations and feelings, emphasizing that your intention is to ensure their safety and happiness.

Example: “I’ve noticed that things seem a bit challenging for you at home, and I’m genuinely concerned about your well-being. I want to make sure you have the support you need to be comfortable and happy.”

3. Focus on Specific Observations: Share specific instances or observations from the holiday season that raised your concern. Be gentle and avoid sounding accusatory. This helps your loved one understand that your suggestion is based on genuine observations rather than assumptions.

Example: “During the holidays, I noticed you struggled with [specific tasks]. It made me realize that you might benefit from additional support and assistance.”

4. Acknowledge Their Feelings: Recognize that this is a sensitive topic, and your loved one may have mixed emotions about the idea of moving into a senior living community. Allow them to express their feelings and validate their concerns without dismissing them.

Example: “I understand that this might be a difficult topic, and I want to hear how you feel about it. Your emotions are important, and I’m here to support you.”

5. Present Senior Living Options Positively: Research senior living communities in advance and highlight the positive aspects of genuine wellbeing. Emphasize the social opportunities, professional care that you might not be able to give or can’t do any more, potential improvements in your relationship with them after going from a care giver to loved one again, and safety measures these communities offer. Discuss how such a move can enhance their quality of life.

Example: “I’ve looked into some senior living communities, and they have fantastic amenities and activities that I think you would enjoy. It could be an opportunity to make new friends and receive the care you need.”

6. Involve Them in the Decision-Making Process: Make your loved one an active participant in the decision-making process. Discuss the available options together, consider their preferences, and address any concerns they may have.

Example: “I want us to explore these options together. Your input is crucial, and we can work together to find the best solution that ensures your comfort and happiness.”

Initiating a conversation about moving into a senior living community can be challenging, but it’s an essential step toward ensuring the well-being of your loved one. Approach the discussion with empathy, patience, and a commitment to finding the best solution for their unique needs. By involving them in the decision-making process and focusing on the positive aspects of senior living, you can help ease the transition and create a plan that prioritizes their safety and happiness.

Food for Thought: Our Memory Care Program’s Approach to Dining

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In honor of National Alzheimer’s Disease Month, The Ashford spotlights a core aspect of our memory care program– the specially designed menu. With a dedicated focus on active senior living lifestyles, we acknowledge the pivotal role that food choices play in the lives of our residents.

An essential aspect of daily life, food takes center stage, growing in significance as we age and becoming increasingly vital for our overall health. Studies have shown strong links between diet and its potential to support memory.

Mealtime at The Ashford is a delicious blend of nutritious food options and opportunities to bring our residents joy through family-style dining. Here, food supports a greater mission to deliver genuine care that enhances the quality of life for all seniors we serve.

Brain-Boosting Nutrients

The link between healthy eating and cognitive function is well-established in the memory care field. Research consistently highlights the impact of nutrients on reinforcing cognitive abilities and slowing decline.

One example is the MIND Diet, a brain-healthy diet developed by experts at Harvard University. The diet has been shown to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The MIND Diet is based on the Mediterranean Diet and the DASH Diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension).

Essential features of this diet include:

  • High intake of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and lean protein. This includes healthy fats, like olive oil.
  • Low intake of saturated fat and cholesterol & added limitations on red meat, sugar and refined carbs.

Another study by Harvard Health recommends five key foods that are linked to brainpower and healthy heart and blood vessels:

  • Green, leafy vegetables
  • Fatty fish
  • Berries
  • Tea & coffee
  • Walnuts

Our team emphasizes similar nutritionally dense superfoods for residents’ overall health and well-being.

Enhancing Accessibility

For memory care residents, ensuring meal accessibility is crucial. Each of our communities has its own Executive Chef. Meals are served three times daily in our community dining room, with wide-ranging options to suit individual tastes.

We also apply practical adjustments to our residents’ cuisine, like offering boneless chicken and bite-sized sandwiches, making food finger-friendly and easy to consume.

Alzheimer’s can change perceptions of color. For this reason, mealtimes feature red plates, backed by research findings on the impact of color on eating habits.

Likewise, staff carefully monitors residents’ eating habits, preferences and needs. We work to make enjoyable food that is nutritious and appealing.

Community & Wellbeing

We encourage our residents to savor every moment. This includes mealtimes, which we spotlight as daily highlights.

Aligned in many ways with the Alzheimer’s Association’s recommendations for dining, our evidence-based approach aims to provide the highest quality of life and independence possible. Family-style dining for every meal fosters a social environment where residents enjoy nourishing meals alongside meaningful interactions.

Additionally, the team regularly hosts themed dining events promoting active senior living, such as weekly baking therapy and cooking classes. Activities like these allow residents to experience social engagement, practice fine motor skills and improve cognitive function while making brain-healthy treats.

See an example of our weekly activity schedule here.

Life and Dining at The Ashford

At The Ashford, mealtime is just one example of our commitment to translating wellness into all aspects of daily life. By crafting a dining experience that meets the needs and preferences of our residents, we aim to spark joy in every bite and make meals moments of shared community.

If you are looking for memory care that values a genuine home, personalized care and tasty food choices for your loved one, The Ashford might be a great fit. We invite you to select your community of interest here and contact us to learn more.

Mental Health Recommendations from AARP

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At The Ashford, we prioritize genuine wellness. Genuine wellness isn’t solely tied to physical health. It entails social, emotional, and financial health, all of which are cornerstones for the services we offer our residents. Mental health is significantly interconnected with physical health, and being part of a supportive community can greatly relieve stress and combat isolation.

Most people would agree that improved well-being is a desirable goal. Fortunately, there are some ways you can promote well-being for yourself and your loved ones. For practical tips on how to enhance your mental health, check out this AARP article here.

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Our communities are currently certified by the Ohio Department of Aging to provide services under the assisted living waiver program.

We accept individuals enrolled in the assisted living waiver program based on bed availability & care needs.

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Ashford of Beavercreak

3865 Park Overlook Dr.
Beavercreek, OH 45431
614.721.2414

Careers

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Our communities are currently certified by the Ohio Department of Aging to provide services under the assisted living waiver program.

We accept individuals enrolled in the assisted living waiver program based on bed availability & care needs.

Ashford on Broad

4801 E. Broad St.
Columbus, OH 43213
614.641.2995

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Our communities are currently certified by the Ohio Department of Aging to provide services under the assisted living waiver program.

We accept individuals enrolled in the assisted living waiver program based on bed availability & care needs.

Ashford at Sturbridge

3700 Sturbridge Ct.
Hilliard, OH 43026
614.633.4811

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Our communities are currently certified by the Ohio Department of Aging to provide services under the assisted living waiver program.

We accept individuals enrolled in the assisted living waiver program based on bed availability & care needs.

Ashford of Mt. Washington

1131 Deliquia Dr.
Cincinnati, OH 45230
513.231.0008

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Our communities are currently certified by the Ohio Department of Aging to provide services under the assisted living waiver program.

We accept individuals enrolled in the assisted living waiver program based on bed availability & care needs.

Ashford of Grove City

3197 Southwest Blvd.
Grove City, OH 43123
614.983.3541

Get in Touch

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Our communities are currently certified by the Ohio Department of Aging to provide services under the assisted living waiver program.

We accept individuals enrolled in the assisted living waiver program based on bed availability & care needs.