Helpful Resources | The Gardens of Carleton

Close-up of elderly hands slicing a fresh avocado on a wooden board with olive oil and bread in the background.

Heath & Wellness, Lifestyle • January 23, 2026

Heart-Healthy Eating: Nutrition Tips for Managing High Cholesterol

Key Takeaways Your daily food choices can positively impact your heart health and cholesterol levels, both your “good” and “bad” cholesterol. Simple swaps can make a meaningful difference over time, like choosing lean proteins and healthy fats. Adding more fiber from foods like oats, fruits, and vegetables helps your body lower LDL cholesterol levels. A…

An older adult with cognitive decline holds a shoe to their ear rather than a phone, looking confused

Lifestyle, Memory Care • December 31, 2025

What to Do if You Suspect Your Parent Has Dementia

Noticing changes in a parent’s memory, behavior, or communication can raise difficult questions. Small moments may not feel alarming at first, but when changes begin to repeat or interfere with daily life, it’s natural to feel concerned and unsure about what to do next. If you suspect your parent may be experiencing dementia, having clear…

4 older adults stretch their arms overhead and bend to one side while smiling during a balance fitness class in senior living

Lifestyle • November 25, 2025

Why Should Senior Citizens Perform Balance Exercises?

Balance plays a quiet but constant role in daily life, and it becomes more noticeable as we age. Many adult children begin to see their loved ones hesitate when standing up, reaching for something, or navigating familiar spaces. Your loved one deserves to feel safe and supported every day, and fortunately, balance exercises can help.…

An adult places their hand on their senior parent's shoulder, who is sitting at a table with a coffee cup.

Lifestyle, Memory Care • October 30, 2025

How to Speak to a Parent with Dementia

Key Takeaways Approach conversations with empathy, patience, and preparation. Choose a calm, private setting and speak gently using simple, reassuring language. Focus on listening and validating feelings rather than correcting or arguing. Establish consistent routines and a safe, comforting home environment. Explore support options like assisted living, memory care, or respite care early. Remember to…

An older adult sits in a doctor's office during a checkup after trying the FAST scale to learn about their recent memory issues

Memory Care • September 30, 2025

The FAST Scale for Dementia: A Guide

Key Takeaways Dementia is not a single disease but a group of conditions that damage brain cells, affecting memory, communication, and daily routines. Common symptoms of dementia include memory loss, confusion, behavioral changes, communication challenges, cognitive decline, and difficulty managing everyday tasks. The FAST Scale (Functional Assessment Staging Test) was developed to track dementia progression.…

Caregiver and senior playing with blocks, in memory care facility.

Memory Care • August 31, 2025

What to Expect from a Memory Care Community

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia can come with rewards and challenges. Families often reach a point where professional support is needed to ensure their loved one’s safety, comfort, and quality of life. That’s where a memory care community can make all the difference. At The Gardens of…

A group of seniors cheers their cups of coffee and orange juice together over a community brunch in assisted living

Assisted Living • July 31, 2025

Things to Consider When Choosing an Assisted Living Community

Choosing an assisted living community is one of the most important decisions you'll make for a family member. With the right approach and key considerations in mind, you can find a place where they'll truly thrive. Carefully evaluating factors such as care quality and location convenience is essential, as each element directly impacts your loved…

Two older adults preparing fresh vegetables together in a kitchen surrounded by leafy greens tomatoes and seasonal produce

Assisted Living, Heath & Wellness, Lifestyle • June 19, 2025

The Role of Nutrition in Senior Summer Safety: Keeping Cool with Seasonal Foods

When the temperature rises, so do the risks for older adults. While hydration often gets the spotlight in warm-weather safety, nutrition plays a powerful role in helping seniors, especially those in assisted living or memory care, stay cool, energized, and healthy all summer long. From water-rich fruits like watermelon and cucumbers to antioxidant-packed berries, tomatoes,…

Older person dining at a restaurant table smiling at their companion while enjoying a fresh salad and glass of white wine

Lifestyle • May 28, 2025

What Age is Considered a Senior Citizen?

The term “senior citizen” is widely used, yet surprisingly difficult to define with precision. From government benefits and tax credits to senior discounts and senior housing, the age at which someone is considered a senior can vary depending on the context. But what age truly marks the start of senior citizenship? And how does this…

A senior drinks from a mix of water and protein powder to support their health after working out

Heath & Wellness, Lifestyle • April 17, 2025

What are the Best Protein Powders for Seniors?

Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet becomes increasingly important with age, and one key nutrient often overlooked in later years is protein. Seniors face unique health challenges, such as muscle loss, decline in bone density, and slower recovery times, but protein can significantly mitigate these concerns. Fortunately, protein powder can help bridge these gaps. Some of…

Assisted Living

Our Magnolia assisted living neighborhood offers compassionate, genuine support for every daily need.

Memory Care

Our Willow memory care neighborhood provides specialized care for those living with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Respite Stays

Respite care can provide peace of mind and an opportunity to discover and enjoy all the wonderful services we offer.

Respite Care

Helpful Resources in Carleton