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Dementia is a progressive condition that affects memory, thinking and behavior. Recognizing early signs of dementia can make a significant difference in getting timely medical help and preparing for long-term care options like memory care. If you’re concerned about a loved one, here are 10 early symptoms to watch for. What is Dementia? Dementia is not a specific disease but a general term for the impaired ability to remember, think or make decisions that interferes with everyday life. While age-related memory loss is common, dementia is more severe and disrupts daily functioning. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. 10 Early Signs of Dementia What to Do If You Notice These Signs If your loved one is experiencing one or more of these signs of dementia, it’s important to schedule a doctor’s appointment for a proper diagnosis. Early detection helps rule out other conditions and allows you to start planning for care. Memory care communities can provide specialized

When you imagine retirement, what do you see? Maybe it’s having the freedom to travel more often, or finally signing up for that watercolor class you never had time for. Maybe it’s enjoying long lunches with friends or simply having slow, peaceful mornings. What probably doesn’t make the list? Household chores. Yet many older adults still spend a surprising amount of time each week tackling laundry, yardwork, repairs and cleaning. In fact, a government survey shows the average person spends nearly 60 hours a month on housework. That’s nearly two and a half full days – every single month – spent doing tasks that could be off your plate entirely. That’s where independent living at Montereau comes in. Here, your home is maintenance free, your schedule is flexible, and your lifestyle is designed for ease. Our team takes care of housekeeping, landscaping and ongoing repairs so you can spend your time doing the things that matter most to you –

When you first retire, you might envision long, leisurely mornings and spontaneous afternoons. But after the honeymoon phase, you may start to wonder how you keep every day from blending into the next. According to the 2024 MassMutual Retirement Happiness Study, the answer lies in staying active, engaged and connected. The secret to achieving all three? Moving to a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) like Montereau. CCRCs, also known as Life Plan Communities, offer a dynamic environment where boredom doesn’t stand a chance. These communities provide the perfect combination of independence and support, with built-in opportunities to stay social, pursue interests and maintain wellness – all key factors tied directly to happiness in retirement. The Key to Happiness in Retirement? Staying Active and Connected MassMutual’s latest study reveals a striking truth: retirees who report the highest levels of happiness are also those who stay socially and physically active. Here’s a peek at some of their findings: Meanwhile, nearly half of

When was the last time you sold a home? For many retirees, it’s been 20, 30 or even 50 years. A lot has changed in the real estate market during that time, and selling your house today may feel like an overwhelming task. Good news: it’s not. Whether you’re downsizing to a more manageable space, planning a move to Montereau or simply exploring your options, understanding the modern home-selling process can make all the difference. How to Sell Your Home Selling a home isn’t what it used to be. A beautifully maintained yard and a welcoming atmosphere might have done the trick decades ago, but today’s buyers expect much more. Here’s what you need to know about selling your home in today’s market. 1. Staging and Presentation The first impression of your home now often comes through a digital screen, not from a driveway. Professional photos and online listings are critical. Decluttering, staging rooms to highlight their purpose and even

It’s a scenario many families experience: you visited a loved one during the holidays, and something felt different. Maybe it was small at first – a pile of unopened mail, expired food in the refrigerator or more-often-than-normal moments of forgetfulness. In this blog, we’ll walk you through some common signs someone needs assisted living or memory care, and we’ll explore the options available to ensure their safety, comfort and quality of life. Signs Someone May Need More Care Recognizing when a loved one’s health or needs have changed can be difficult, especially if you’re not sure what to look for. Here are a few indicators that may suggest a senior is struggling with their independence. Difficulty Managing Daily Tasks Is your loved one finding it harder to keep up with housework, meal preparation or personal hygiene? A once-organized home may now be cluttered, or you may notice they are skipping showers or wearing the same clothes repeatedly. Unexplained Weight Loss

Downsizing can often feel like an overwhelming task – especially when you’re recently retired and faced with a lifetime of accumulated belongings to go through. However, with the right approach, downsizing can actually be fun, rewarding and even meaningful. Whether you’re looking for creative ways to declutter, give back or turn the process into a social event, these downsizing tips will help you tackle the challenge with ease and enjoyment and prepare you for your new right-sized lifestyle at an independent living community like Montereau. 1. Host a Downsizing Gift Swap Party Who says decluttering is only a solo task? Invite your friends, family or neighbors over for a downsizing gift swap party. Set out items you no longer need that might be useful to others, like kitchenware, decor or books. Guests can bring their own items to exchange, making it a win-win for everyone. You’ll enjoy good company and maybe even discover something useful for yourself. Learn more about

Aging in place is an appealing goal for many seniors. After all, your home is familiar and full of memories. However, as you consider your long-term needs, it’s worth asking yourself whether your home can truly support you as you age – comfortably, practically and, most importantly, safely. According to a 2020 U.S. Census Bureau report, only 10% of American homes are considered “aging ready.” This means the overwhelming majority of homes lack features like step-free entryways, first-floor bedrooms and bathrooms or essential accessibility upgrades. Here’s what you should consider when evaluating your home’s aging-in-place readiness and why moving to a senior living community like Montereau might be a more sensible and cost-effective option. Assessing Your Home’s Aging-Readiness You may be active today and feel able to live at home indefinitely. But look ahead five to 15 years down the road. To age successfully at home, your living space must be able to accommodate changing physical and health needs. Begin

If you’re an empty nester or senior considering downsizing, you’re likely hoping to sell your home for the best price. One way to make a lasting impression on potential buyers and even command a premium is through seasonal staging. With interest rates recently lowered, there’s no better time to put your house on the market – and to start thinking about your next move to a place like Montereau! Here’s a guide to understanding seasonal staging and using it to enhance your home’s appeal in every season. What is Seasonal Staging? If you’re wondering how to prepare to sell your house, seasonal staging is a great place to start. By incorporating seasonal colors, textures and themes, you can make your home feel welcoming and current. Seasonal staging can evoke specific emotions, helping potential buyers envision themselves enjoying each season in your home. Let’s break down some home staging tips for each season. Spring: Fresh and Blooming Spring is a time

Every month, nearly 2,000 people search the internet asking if it’s safe for someone with dementia to be left alone. For many, this question arises as they watch a loved one navigate the challenges of dementia, and they wonder when – or if – in-home care is enough. The search usually comes from family caregivers, who are not only the first to notice changes but are also the key decision makers when it comes to care. The choice between in-home care and memory care can feel overwhelming, but understanding dementia’s progression can help clarify what’s best for your loved one. What Is Dementia and How Does It Progress? Dementia is a broad term that describes a decline in cognitive function severe enough to interfere with daily life. It’s not just about forgetfulness; it can also affect language, problem-solving abilities and even behavior. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form. Dementia is typically categorized into three stages: early, middle and late.

For many, retirement represents a time to relax, pursue hobbies, and enjoy life on one’s own terms. However, an 85 yearlong Harvard study, one of the longest-running studies on happiness, reveals that the key to happiness in retirement is not just about having more free time. It’s about maintaining a fulfilling social life. This insight offers a valuable lesson for those planning their retirement years and highlights the importance of cultivating and maintaining meaningful relationships. The Harvard Study’s Surprising Findings The Harvard Study of Adult Development began in 1938 and has followed more than 700 participants for over eight decades, tracking their physical and emotional well-being, relationships and careers. As participants transitioned into mid- and late life, the study increasingly focused on their retirement experiences. One of the most significant findings was that the primary challenge retirees faced wasn’t financial stress or health issues; the loss of social connections was integral to their work lives. These social connections, which often