Morning Comforts in Memory Care: How Each Day Begins at Hillside Terrace

One of the most important parts of memory care is starting the day with comfort and familiarity. Our residents begin their mornings with gentle support from our compassionate caregivers, who assist with dressing, grooming, and personal care.

Breakfast is served in a cozy dining area, with meals designed around health needs and personal preferences. Beyond nutrition, this morning time is about connection—staff take the opportunity to engage in conversation, easing anxiety and fostering calm.

 

A predictable routine not only brings comfort but also helps residents feel more independent and secure. It’s these small details that make mornings meaningful for our residents receiving memory care in Ann Arbor. Learn more about a day in the life of a memory care resident here.

 

👉 Want to see how mornings feel at Hillside Terrace? Call us at (734) 761-4451 to schedule a tour.

Caregiver Burnout: A Sign It May Be Time for Memory Care

Caring for a loved one with memory loss is both rewarding and challenging. But when the demands of caregiving become overwhelming, it may be time to consider memory care in Ann Arbor. 

Ask yourself: Am I experiencing caregiver burnout? If you’re feeling anxious, exhausted, or unable to balance your own responsibilities, you’re not alone. Many families reach a point where memory care can provide the structure, safety, and professional support their loved one needs—while giving caregivers peace of mind.

Learn more about the questions you should be asking yourself if it's time for memory care here.

Our Memory Care neighborhood is designed to support both residents and families. Through secure surroundings, engaging activities, and compassionate care, we help loved ones thrive while allowing families to focus on their relationships again.

📥 Download our free Memory Care Guide & Quiz for practical tips, FAQs, and tools to help you decide if it’s time.

Is It Time for Memory Care? Key Questions Families Should Ask

Deciding when to move a loved one into memory care in Ann Arbor is one of the most difficult decisions families may face. You may wonder whether the changes you’re seeing are normal signs of aging—or signals that more specialized support is needed.

One of the most important questions to ask yourself is: Is my loved one safe at home? If they’ve started wandering, forgotten to turn off appliances, or become disoriented in familiar places, safety may be at risk. Memory care communities provide secure environments, trained staff, and 24/7 supervision to prevent accidents and bring families peace of mind.

Learn more about the questions you should be asking yourself if it's time for memory care here.

👉 Want more guidance? Download our free Memory Care Guide & “Is It Time?” Quiz to help you recognize the signs and make confident decisions.

Memory Box Therapy is Soothing & Therapeutic

 According to A Place for Mom, Familiar items can be soothing and therapeutic to seniors experiencing dementia.

“Each resident has a prop box individualized for them — their box contains both comforting objects and stimulating items centered around their life history, interests, and the things they enjoy,” Martinez says. “That box can be used by any of our team members, or the resident can use it independently if they aren’t interested in a group activity or choose to reminisce alone."

Memory box items may include any of the following:

• A photo album
• A kitchen apron
• A treasured Christmas ornament
• A favorite painting
• A wedding dress, military uniform, or favorite item of clothing
• An audio recording of nature sounds or family voices
• Scented wax or sachets that smell like home
• A familiar tool, like a wooden spoon for a cook or sandpaper for a carpenter
• Home videos saved to a tablet

Visiting relatives can use the memory box as a conversation starter, Martinez says. A selection of familiar things can offer families quality time together without the pressure of finding something to talk about.

Learn more about other memory care activities that keep seniors active and engaged here.

Memory Care Designed with You in Mind!

If you’re looking for memory care in Ann Arbor, that place might be Hillside Terrace. We’ve been family owned and operated since 2006. Our assisted and independent living community is a nurturing and stimulating environment on beautiful grounds with many amenities. For years we’ve dreamed of opening a specialized memory care facility to provide a safe, caring home for this vulnerable population. We’re honored to welcome residents to our new Hillside Terrace Memory Care home opening in the Winter of 2023. 

We can help your family create peace of mind. When you’re at home you’ll know your loved one is taken care of and in good hands. Schedule a tour of Hillside Terrace today!

It is Time for Memory Care?

It’s a difficult and emotional experience moving a loved one into a memory care facility. At Hillside Terrace, we understand the issues and emotions around such a painful milestone. We’ve been a family owned and operated living facility since 2006, welcoming many mothers, fathers, and grandparents to our home. Our assisted and independent living community is a nurturing and stimulating environment on beautiful grounds with many amenities.  

For years we’ve dreamed of opening a specialized memory care facility to provide a safe, caring home for this vulnerable population. We’re honored to welcome residents to our new Hillside Terrace Memory Care home opening in the Fall of 2022. 

Our philosophy is a holistic focus on the well-being of our residents. We know that promoting independence, creating an engaging environment, and developing relationships based on trust are key to building a real home here for your loved ones.  

Visit our website to learn more about the lifestyle options at Hillside Terrace. 

Signs It May Be Time for Memory Care

It’s painful watching your loved one lose their memory. Even harder knowing the cognitive decline of dementia often ends up stealing their independence. You want your loved ones to be happy and safe, but if they’re living with dementia, happy and safe may mean moving into a memory care facility. 

Dementia looks different from person to person. Although it often progresses in a similar pattern, the extent of cognitive decline and the speed at which it progresses is unpredictable. That can make it difficult to decide when it’s time to move to memory care. Behavioral issues and compromised safety are common signs it may be time. 

Visit our website for nine signs it might be time for memory care.

Delirium vs. Dementia: Symptoms You Need to Know

People with dementia and those experiencing delirium can both show signs of confusion and decreased awareness. 

Whether your family member has dementia or delirium, they may have difficulty following a conversation, may not understand where they are, or may not remember important facts, such as what day it is, where they live, or their loved ones’ names.

How do you know which symptoms require a talk with your loved one’s doctor?

Delirium begins suddenly and develops quickly. Dementia begins gradually and progresses over time.

Delirium is temporary and reversible. Dementia is permanent and symptoms worsen as the disease progresses.

Read the full article about delirium vs. dementia and how a memory care facility in Ann Arbor can help!

If your loved one seems confused, talk to their doctor. There are also some other things you can do to help, including staying connected (check in with your loved one often), pay attention to changes, discuss unusual symptoms with a doctor, and lend a hand during recovery by helping your loved one with daily activities, or seek other care options, such as a memory care facility, which can offer help with meals, bathing, medication management, and more.

Tour Memory Care Facilities in Ann Arbor: Schedule Your Tour Today!

Our "Aging by Choice" philosophy allows a flexibility of options for our residents and their families; you choose what is best for you, and we make it possible. We’re confident in our ability to provide the best quality of care, the security, and the family atmosphere you’re seeking! We warmly invite you to see the difference we can make when your family shares life with our family. 

We can help your family create peace of mind. When you’re at home you’ll know your loved one is taken care of and in good hands. Schedule a tour of Hillside Terrace today!

What Triggers Sundown Syndrome?

It’s unknown what causes sundown syndrome, but research suggests these possible triggers:

• End of day activity
• Fatigue
• Low light
• Internal imbalance
• Winter blues
• Infection

If you or a loved one is showing signs of sundowning, it’s a good idea to discuss their medications and potential side effects with a doctor.

Learn more about Sundown Syndrome here!

Schedule Your Tour Today! Virtual or In-Person Tours Available

Hillside Terrace provides an “aging by choice” philosophy. We work with your family to create the best possible living situation for your senior relative. Our housing, dining, and care services will make your loved one feel at home! Let our family take care of yours.

Call Hillside Terrace today to learn more about our memory care services at (734) 761-4451 to schedule a visit!

What is Sundown Syndrome?

Sundown syndrome is used to describe a range of unusual behaviors that occur during the transition from day to night, like agitation, confusion, and restlessness.  The syndrome primarily affects people with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. In fact, as many as one in five people with Alzheimer’s will experience sundowning, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. Sometimes seniors recovering from surgery in hospitals or unfamiliar environments will also experience sundown syndrome.

For some, symptoms of sundowning can be more severe, including:

• Hallucinating
• Hiding things
• Feeling paranoid
• Acting violently

Learn more about Sundown Syndrome here!

Schedule Your Tour Today! Virtual or In-Person Tours Available

Hillside Terrace provides an “aging by choice” philosophy. We work with your family to create the best possible living situation for your senior relative. Our housing, dining, and care services will make your loved one feel at home! Let our family take care of yours.

Call Hillside Terrace today to learn more about our memory care services at (734) 761-4451 to schedule a visit!

Live a Longer, Happier Life with Healthy Recipes!

Want to live a longer, healthier life?

Looking for healthy recipes?

Are you wondering what you should be eating more of?

According to Where You Live Matters, foods seniors should eat more of include:

• For calcium and vitamin D, choose fortified cereals and fruit juices, dark green leafy vegetables, milk, non-sugary yogurt, and fortified plant-based beverages.
• For vitamin B12, fortified cereals, lean meats and poultry (look for cuts with “loin” or “round” in the name), as well as fish and seafood.
• To add fiber to their diet, switch to whole-grain breads, cereals and pastas, and add beans, peas, fruits and vegetables.
• A good source of Potassium can come from fruits, vegetables and beans.

Learn more!

Memory Care Facilities in Ann Arbor: Make Hillside Terrace Your Home Away from Home! 

We can help give your family peace of mind. When you’re at home, you’ll know your loved one is taken care of and in good hands. Hillside Terrace, “Where our family shares life with your family!” Schedule a tour of Hillside Terrace today!

For other floorplan information and availability, please contact us today at (734) 761-4451.

What Causes Difficult Behaviors with Dementia?

Want to know more about the reason behind difficult behaviors from your loved one with dementia and how to handle them? Feeling overwhelmed by your loved one’s aggression and confusion? Interested in memory care facilities in Ann Arbor?

Difficult behaviors caused by dementia, like aggression, present a real challenge to caregivers and family who don’t understand them. That's why it's so important to learn what causes or triggers these behaviors. When you discover the root causes, it becomes easier to address tough behaviors and even avoid them entirely, giving you more quality time with your loved one!

Main causes of difficult behavior in people with dementia. 

Confusion: no matter who you are, confusion is extremely frustrating. Imagine being confused about time, place, people, and objects maybe 50% of the time. You’d feel pretty on-edge and emotional. Because confusion is a major symptom of dementia, it only makes sense that emotional outbursts come with the territory. 

You can help someone with dementia handle their confusion in many ways. Offer to help with an activity if they seem stuck. Answer questions with short and simple responses. Or go through an old photo album that might trigger lucid memories. 

Avoid confusion by steering clear of asking questions, arguing, or trying to rationalize. 

Fear: daily activities can easily provoke fear in a person with dementia as it becomes more difficult to recognize people and places. This fear can cause them to lash out suddenly or refuse to do something. 

You can help someone avoid fear by walking them through an activity with short, simple, statements explaining what’s happening. Be sure to speak calmly and take your time. 

If someone with dementia becomes aggressive or refuses, give them space and don’t try to reason with them. In time, you’ll learn what things are most likely to trigger fear and get better at avoiding them!

Brain deterioration: with dementia, the brain goes through physical and chemical changes. Because the brain controls behavior, we can expect significant changes in behavior, too. As you consider how to interact and respond to your loved one, it helps to always keep this in mind.

Before you reply to a whacky statement, troubling accusation, or frustrating question, remember that you’re talking to someone whose brain has changed and doesn’t operate the way it once did. Take a deep breath and give yourself a minute to think before you say something. In time, you’ll develop your own rhythm and feel more comfortable talking to your loved one with dementia.

 

The difficult behaviors that come with dementia will always present a challenge. But by learning more about the cause of these behaviors, you can adapt and better enjoy your time together. If you want to talk more about difficult behaviors and dementia or have questions about memory care facilities in Ann Arbor, give us a call at Hillside Terrace today. Remember that at Hillside Terrace, our family shares life with yours.

How Early Detection of Alzheimer’s Is Possible

Trying to learn more about early detection of Alzheimer’s? Does Alzheimer’s disease or dementia run in your family? Considering Alzheimer’s early detection testing for yourself or a loved one? 

Early detection of Alzheimer’s and dementia can make a huge difference in preparing for and treating later symptoms. It benefits everything from aiding developments in research, having access to treatment, and making a smart choice in dementia care in Ann Arbor. 

Because Alzheimer’s is so pervasive in the elderly population, there are new developments in detection all the time. Learn more about early detection to empower yourself and your family. 

Options for Early Detection for Alzheimer’s. 

Medical Testing for Early Detection: Alzheimer’s research is currently funded at a whopping $1.9B per year. Researchers are pursuing all reasonable avenues, which includes early detection testing. Some newly developed methods have the power to detect the potential for Alzheimer’s many years in advance of the onset of symptoms. 

Currently biomarkers in the blood, imaging tests, and certain proteins in spinal fluid offer early detection results. You can talk to your doctor about medical testing to decide if it might be a good choice for you. 

Know the 10 Warning Signs for Early Detection: because some of the early warning signs of Alzheimer’s can be similar to typical changes with age, the Alzheimer’s Association developed a list of 10 early warning signs to help tell the difference between aging and Alzheimer’s. 

1. Memory disruption.
2. Difficultly planning and problem solving.
3. Struggle completing familiar tasks.
4. Confusion with time and place.
5. Trouble recognizing familiar images including letters and reflection.
6. Problems with speaking and writing.
7. Losing things and struggling to retrace steps.
8. Poor judgement such as money and hygiene choices.
9. Social and professional withdrawal.
10. Mood and personality changes.

Check out the list in more detail, including examples, here. Knowing these warning signs can make a big difference to you and your family if dementia or Alzheimer’s is part of your future. 

Talk to Hillside Terrace about dementia care in Ann Arbor and early detection today. 

Know your options for early detection for a brighter future. If you have questions about dementia care or early detection, give us a call at Hillside Terrace today.

How Early Detection of Alzheimer’s Can Help You

Not sure if early detection of Alzheimer’s disease is important enough to worry about? Are you the kind of person who thinks you’d rather not know if Alzheimer’s or dementia are part of your future? Are you considering early detection tests for Alzheimer’s and want to know more?

Alzheimer’s is a hot topic. It affects millions, at least 10% of our population over 65, but there’s still no reliable treatment, prevention, or cure. So, why bother with early detection? Besides offering a vital data point to research of the disease, early detection and diagnosis of Alzheimer’s can help you in many ways even without a cure. 

1. Empowering: knowing the diagnosis well before symptoms take a stronghold empowers you to be a voice in the community, raising awareness and advocating for research and care. 
2. Time to Prepare: you and your family will both appreciate having the opportunity to talk about future plans, including Alzheimer’s or dementia care in Ann Arbor. 
3. Accurate Diagnosis: seeking an early diagnosis increases the chance of accurate diagnosis which leads to better treatment and care.
4. Effective Treatment: though there is a strong need for more effective treatments, evidence shows that results are better with current treatments when they start earlier. 
5. Developing Treatment: a lot of people and money are devoted to researching Alzheimer’s treatment and prevention. With a diagnosis, you will have access to the benefits of these developments as they emerge, or even clinical trials. 

Talk to Hillside Terrace about dementia care in Ann Arbor and early detection today. 

There’s no doubt you’ll benefit from knowing, maybe even more than you can imagine. If you have questions about dementia care or early detection, give us a call at Hillside Terrace today. 

Latest Developments in Research for Alzheimer’s Disease

Trying to stay up-to-date on the latest news in Alzheimer’s research? Wondering what the future looks like for Alzheimer’s treatment? Have a loved one with Alzheimer’s and want to stay up-to-date on developments? 

Because scientists have had a difficult time determining the cause and the best treatment, things happen quickly with Alzheimer’s research and it can be tough to stay in-the-know. As experts in memory care in Ann Arbor, we put together a simple list of what’s going on right now with Alzheimer’s research. Check out the list and catch up on anything you missed. 

Better Testing: researchers are excited by new projects developing accurate blood and saliva tests to help diagnose Alzheimer’s disease earlier. Earlier diagnosis could be the key in mitigating and treating symptoms and will also aid research efforts. 

Finding the Cause: identifying the precise cause of Alzheimer’s has proven to be difficult leading to problems developing effective treatment. With improving technology and funding, researchers are exploring several options and are getting closer to finding the cause. Some of the latest research focuses on amyloid and tau proteins which build up in the brain as Alzheimer’s progresses. 

Enzymes and Receptors: recent studies have identified the enzyme lysozyme and receptor CSF1 as potential players in Alzheimer’s disease and its effects. Further research might identify causes of the disease and help develop effective treatment. 

Prevention: because it has been difficult developing treatment for Alzheimer’s, research is shifting more to prevention. Finding interventions that prevent the disease from progressing past its earliest stages offers hope for millions. 

Research in Colombia: a population in Colombia experiences early onset Alzheimer’s at rates far higher than average. Researchers are working with this population to study the progression of the disease and possible treatments targeting amyloid and tau proteins. 

Do you need help providing the best care for a loved one with Alzheimer’s?

Even with advances in research, you might find that you aren’t equipped to provide the care your loved one with Alzheimer’s needs. If that’s the case, memory care facilities in Ann Arbor might be a perfect solution for your family. At Hillside Terrace Senior Living, we’re prepared to provide an excellent standard of care for people living with dementia and Alzheimer’s. Give us call today to ask questions or schedule a tour. Remember, at Hillside Terrace, our family shares life with yours. 

Is your parents’ home too much work to take care of?

Is your parents’ home too much work to take care of?

Should you sell your parents’ home?

You need to do what’s right for you. If you have doubts you need to take a step back and evaluate your options. Here are some important factors to consider:

• Are you keeping up with ongoing maintenance?
• Will you be renting it out?
• Who will be there to take care of your parents’ house on a regular basis?
• Would keeping your parents’ house cost you too much?
• Is your parents’ home in good condition to sell?

Best Memory Care Facility in Ann Arbor: Schedule a Tour Today!

For more information about the best memory care facility in Ann Arbor and the other services we provide, visit us at HillsideTerrace.net, or contact us here! Hillside Terrace – “Where our family shares life with your family!” Schedule a tour today!

Should you sell your parents’ home?

Is your parents’ home too much work to take care of?

Should you sell your parents’ home?

Are you wondering if the sale of your parents’ home can help you pay for their stay in assisted living?

According to A Place for Mom, “Chances are, someone in the family has an emotional connection to your parent’s house. If letting go of it is a difficult emotional decision for any of you, then you’ll want to think through whether or not keeping it makes sense. Sentimental reasons alone aren’t always enough to go off of, but there may be other good reasons that make it worth it.

1. It makes sense to keep as a real estate investment.
2. Someone wants to live there.
3. You have good use for it.”

Best Memory Care Facility in Ann Arbor: Schedule a Tour Today!

For more information about the best memory care facility in Ann Arbor and the other services we provide, visit us at HillsideTerrace.net, or contact us here! Hillside Terrace – “Where our family shares life with your family!” Schedule a tour today!

Respect in Elderly Care

R.E.S.P.E.C.T. Whether it’s in catchy songs or in kids’ shows, respect has always been important to our relationships. And why shouldn’t it be? Regardless of skin color, financial status, body type, or age—everyone in every walk of life should be respected. That doesn’t end just because someone goes to an elderly care facility! So what behaviors are considered “respectful” towards the elderly? When it comes to elderly care, here are our ideas:

• Refer to the resident by their first name
  

Unless a resident specifically asks to be called by a nickname, we’ll call them by their first name. Calling someone “gramps” or “grandma” might not bother some people, but for others it may be unflattering. We’ll always ask what our residents want to be called. 

• Communicate clearly and politely

What are the rules? What are the procedures? We’re upfront and clear about all our processes and procedures. We’ll always try to be polite—asking for a resident’s opinion and always knocking before entering unless there’s a medical or personal emergency. We work hard to respect any boundaries a resident may have.

• Allow a resident to make choices

We allow our residents to make choices. Whether it’s the food they eat or the clothes they wear, they’ll always have the first say. Retiring to an elderly care facility shouldn’t mean the end of individuality and personal freedom! You and your loved one deserve to be treated with the best in care and—you guessed it—respect!

So don’t be worried about your loved one needing care. If your loved one needs elderly care in Ann Arbor give us a call today! We’re happy to help! 

Health as a Priority

When your parents begin to need elderly care in Ann Arbor, health becomes a real concern—injuries become more severe, and their risk of many diseases can increase. Their health and autonomy are our priority, so your parents can enjoy their days at Hillside Terrace. 

“Health” can mean different things to different people. So, what do we do for our residents who require elderly care? From providing a healthy diet to supporting a positive mindset, we spare no effort to support your loved ones’ mental and physical health.

Here are a few things we do to make your loved ones’ health a priority:

• Keep our grounds clean and safe
• Provide healthy, tasty diets
• Keep highly trained professionals on staff 
• Provide lots of meaningful activities

Elderly Care in Ann Arbor

You should never have to worry about the physical or medical safety of an elderly loved one in a care facility. Whether it’s the food they eat or the facility they live in, their health is our first concern. We provide meaningful activities for the mind and body. Our professionals are ready for medical and personal emergencies at all times. We don’t want Hillside Terrace to be considered the “end of the road,” but rather the beginning of a time to live with care nearby. We strive to make our care supportive and enjoyable for all of our residents!

We know what it’s like to worry about the health of an elderly loved one. If you want your parents to experience exceptional elderly care in Ann Arbor, give us a call, today!

How Physical Activity Impacts Your Health

Does physical activity really have a positive impact on your health?

Is your mind sharp?

According to the Global Council on Brain Health, “people who participate in purposeful exercises show beneficial changes in brain structure and function, and those who lead a physically active lifestyle have a lower risk of cognitive decline."

At Hillside Terrace, we offer many opportunities for physical exercise including: NuStep, daily exercise class, volleyball, bocce ball, and walking group.

To learn more, read “A Stronger Body Can Lead to a Stronger Mind.”

Best Assisted Living in Ann Arbor: Schedule a Tour Today!

For more information about assisted living in Ann Arbor and the other services we provide, visit us at HillsideTerrace.net, or contact us here! Hillside Terrace – “Where our family shares life with your family!” Schedule a tour today!

Small Changes Can Have a Positive Impact on Your Body & Mind

Do you have a healthy body and mind?

Are you physically fit?

If you answered “No” to the above questions, you may need to make a couple of changes to your habits. Small changes can have lasting benefits on your body, mind and spirit.

You can combine purposeful exercise and healthy lifestyle habits at any age. It isn’t necessary for adults to drastically alter their current lifestyle to reap the physical and mental benefits of exercise. You just need to make a few tweaks that can have a larger impact on overall health. We can help you live a longer and happier life!

Best Assisted Living in Ann Arbor: Schedule a Tour Today!

After raising a family together, you may decide that keeping up a home is too much for you. And that’s okay! There are many communities for assisted living in Ann Arbor that will allow you the flexibility to create a retirement lifestyle that is perfect for you!

For more information about assisted living and the other services we provide, visit us at HillsideTerrace.net, or contact us here! Hillside Terrace – “Where our family shares life with your family!” Schedule a tour today!