Why Staying Social Keeps Seniors Physically and Emotionally Strong

Loneliness is more than just an emotion—it’s a health risk. For older adults, isolation can lead to physical ailments such as high blood pressure, weakened immunity, and even shorter life expectancy.

That’s why Hillside Terrace focuses on connection as a key pillar of wellness. Through shared meals, group fitness classes, and community events, residents stay active and supported. Our NuStep fitness center and wellness programs help maintain mobility, while new friendships nourish emotional well-being.

 

Choosing assisted living in Ann Arbor means choosing a lifestyle that promotes vitality and belonging. Discover how Hillside Terrace helps seniors thrive through the power of community.

 

Read more on our website!

 

Schedule a Tour Today

 

We warmly invite you to visit our community and see firsthand how we can make a difference in your life or the life of a loved one. Discover the freedom, flexibility, and peace of mind that assisted living in Ann Arbor can provide.

How Social Engagement Supports Brain Health for Seniors

As we age, staying socially active becomes more than a pastime—it’s a powerful tool for preserving mental health. Social interaction has been shown to reduce the risk of depression and cognitive decline, even helping delay conditions like Alzheimer’s and dementia.

At Hillside Terrace, our residents benefit from a rich calendar of activities—from book clubs to art classes—that foster connection and keep the mind engaged. In fact, many assisted living communities in Ann Arbor prioritize cognitive wellness through daily social experiences.

Read more on our website!

 

Schedule a Tour Today

 

If you or a loved one is seeking a community that understands the value of mental stimulation through meaningful connection, we invite you to visit our community and see firsthand how we can make a difference in your life or the life of a loved one. Discover the freedom, flexibility, and peace of mind that assisted living in Ann Arbor can provide.

How to Stay Involved After Moving a Parent to Assisted Living

One of the biggest fears when moving your parent to assisted living is that they’ll feel abandoned. However, there are many ways to stay connected and involved in their lives to ensure they continue to feel supported and loved.

Maintain Strong Involvement

Visit regularly, call often, and participate in community events. Assisted living facilities in Ann Arbor and beyond offer numerous opportunities for family engagement, including scheduled visit days, holiday gatherings, and community activities. Your presence can make a world of difference in your parent’s emotional well-being.

 

Reframe the Situation

Instead of viewing the move as a loss, consider it a step toward an improved quality of life for your loved one. Assisted living communities provide a safe and engaging environment where seniors can thrive. With access to social activities, professional caregivers, and personalized support, your parent may experience a better standard of living than they would at home alone.

 

Seek Support

You’re not alone in this journey. Consider joining a support group, speaking with a counselor, or reaching out to friends who have been through the same experience. Talking about your emotions can help ease feelings of guilt and uncertainty.

 

Read more on our website!

 

Schedule a Tour Today

 

We warmly invite you to visit our community and see firsthand how we can make a difference in your life or the life of a loved one. Discover the freedom, flexibility, and peace of mind that assisted living in Ann Arbor can provide.

 

Finding the Right Fit at Hillside Terrace in Ann Arbor

Finding the right fit for senior living is crucial. At Hillside Terrace in Ann Arbor, we understand this and offer a range of care levels within our assisted living community. Our "Aging by Choice" philosophy allows residents and their families to choose what's best for them, with our support every step of the way.

We provide everything from Independent Living for active seniors to higher levels of assisted living for those needing more support with daily tasks and personal care. Our dedicated staff provides compassionate, personalized care, creating a secure and family-like atmosphere. We encourage you to schedule a tour to experience the Hillside Terrace difference and see how we can provide peace of mind for your family. 

 

Learn more about assisted living levels of care here.

 

Schedule a Tour Today

 

We warmly invite you to visit our community and see firsthand how we can make a difference in your life or the life of a loved one. Discover the freedom, flexibility, and peace of mind that assisted living in Ann Arbor can provide.

Consequences of Not Getting a Good Night’s Rest

Getting a good night’s sleep is harder as we age and can lead to serious health issues, including: 

• Weakened immunity
• Higher frequency of falls
• Unintentional weight gain or loss
• Higher rates of diabetes
• Greater risk for cardiac disease
• Change in temperament

 

Learn more about why getting a good night’s sleep is so important here.

 

Allow Your Loved One to Live Comfortably - Hillside Terrace Assisted Living Ann Arbor 

 

When your aging parents move into an assisted living community, you won’t have to worry if someone is there to help get them back on their feet. If you’re interested in learning more about assisted living in Ann Arbor at Hillside Terrace or scheduling a tour, contact us today! 734-761-4451

Why is Sleep so Important as We Age?

Are you battling insomnia? 

Are you having a hard time getting a good night’s rest?

 

It’s important to make sleep a priority because it improves your overall well-being:

1. Lower risk for diseases: Getting more sleep can decrease your risk for diabetes and heart disease.

2. Boost your immune system: More sleep can help your body fight off viruses and infections. 

3. More self-control:  You’re more likely to make unhealthy lifestyle choices when you’re sleep-deprived. Finding motivation to exercise when you’re tired can be tough. On the other hand, when you’re well-rested, you’re more likely to make better decisions.

4. Refresh your mind and body: Sleep gives your mind and body an opportunity to rest and restore. This can help minimize inflammation, regulate your digestive system, and allows your brain to recharge.

5. Increased energy:  Getting enough sleep will give you more energy. It helps you stay active and engaged with life, which further enhances how positive you feel.

Learn more about why getting a good night’s sleep is so important here.

 

Allow Your Loved One to Live Comfortably - Hillside Terrace Assisted Living Ann Arbor 

 

When your aging parents move into an assisted living community, you won’t have to worry if someone is there to help get them back on their feet. If you’re interested in learning more about assisted living in Ann Arbor at Hillside Terrace or scheduling a tour, contact us today! 734-761-4451

What Can Hillside Terrace Senior Living Offer?

It can be difficult to find the right community for you or a loved one, but with time and careful evaluation, you’ll make a decision that’s right for you and your family.

Residents at Hillside Terrace are family. We pride ourselves on providing a variety of amenities to make the senior living experience as enriching and loving as possible. This includes enclosed courtyards, beautiful gardens and walking paths, serene patios, a sunny dining room, a chapel, a library and computer lounge, a hair salon, a rehab and fitness center and daily group activities ranging from crafts to shopping to volleyball. Our professional staff provides maintenance of all apartment homes, buildings and grounds. 

Learn more here!

Make Hillside Terrace Senior Living Your Home Away from Home! 

For more information about assisted living services 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!” 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. Schedule a tour today!

The best thing you can do for someone in mourning – anything!

When a friend or loved one is grieving, many of us say, “let me know if there’s anything I can do.” While the sentiment here is genuine (you really do want to do something nice for them,) it also shifts the burden onto the grieving person. In the throes of grief, that person may not even know what they need.

Instead, pick something within your capabilities and just do it! Maybe bring a casserole over for dinner on a weeknight. You could also come mow their lawn or do a couple loads of laundry or pick up some groceries. During such a difficult time, they’re probably not going to be great at gauging what needs they have. Pick something nice to do for them and just do it!

If your grieving friend or loved one is a resident at one of Hillside Terrace’s community for assisted living in Ann Arbor, please feel free to contact us at 734-761-4451. Our professional staff will be happy to assist you in any way possible.

What to Know When Planning Ahead for Future Healthcare Decisions

Planning for future healthcare needs seems like a lot of guesswork. But failing to plan is an even bigger gamble. Without planning, an unexpected health crisis could mean you’re making big decisions under pressure with limited choices.

Hillside Terrace gives you lifestyle choices now and a plan in place for future care. For more information about assisted living services and the other services we provide, visit us at HillsideTerrace.net, or contact us here!

How to Pay for Your Parents Stay in a Retirement Home

Not sure how you’re going to pay for your parents stay in a retirement home?

Do your parents have a retirement or saving account?

Did they purchase long-term care insurance?

The cost of affording your parents stay in a retirement community can be difficult, as they can be expensive. Assisted living can help you reduce the risk for your parent to be without assistance when they need it most, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. At Hillside Terrace, we understand the amount of responsibility and stress that you’re under. 

To learn more, read “When You Want to Retire but a Parent Needs Elderly Care.”

Best Elderly Care in Ann Arbor: Schedule a Tour Today!

For more information about elderly care 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!

Ready for Retirement but a Parent Needs Elderly Care?

Are you looking forward to your retirement?

Are you caring for elderly parents?

Are you worried about the cost for assisted living?

It can be worrisome to take care of your elderly parents. Especially if you leave for the day only to come back and find that they struggled while you were gone. According to a Place for Mom, “here are some common resources to explore to pay for your parents’ senior care:” 

- Home equity

- Investments

- Long- Term Care Insurance

- Pensions

- Retirement or Savings Accounts

- Social Security

- Medicaid

To learn more, read “When You Want to Retire but a Parent Needs Elderly Care.”

Best Elderly Care 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 elderly care in Ann Arbor that will allow you the flexibility to create a retirement lifestyle that is perfect for you!

For more information about elderly care 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! 

Make the Most of Every Minute with Loved Ones

Do you have a loved one living in assisted living in Ann Arbor?

Is your loved one struggling with the transition?

Are you looking for ways to make each visit a special moment?

You can make the most of every minute when you visit your loved one if you keep this in mind:

• Just by being there you’re helping
• Bring a gift
• Check the schedule
• Be Creative

Learn more here!

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!

How to Decide If You’re Ready to Make a Retirement Plan

Still feel like you’re too young to make a real plan for retirement? Are you interested in a retirement home in Ann Arbor but think you’re jumping the gun? Retirement age still a couple years away and not sure if you need to start making a plan?

When retirement is just around the corner, you might feel like you don’t need a plan for your retirement beyond your saving. You feel fine to carry on just as you are, in the same house, doing the same things, just with a little extra free time to enjoy. But when is the right time to start planning for your retirement? To find out if you’re ready, ask yourself these simple questions about retirement today:

1. Can you picture yourself enjoying a community of retirees? You don’t have to be ready to move into a retirement community today, but if the idea of the community sounds appealing to you now, or like it could be appealing one day, it’s not too early to start planning!

2. Are you interested in an easier day? If you can imagine a day with less housework, a smaller space to maintain, and all around simpler care, downsizing or moving to a community could be in the cards for you. If you’re already thinking about the perks of less work, it’s time to start planning. 

3. Do you need ample time to adjust to a new environment? If you’re the type of person that takes time to warm up and feel comfortable with change, don’t delay planning a move to a community or downsizing. Just making plans, even if they’re for a fairly distant future, can really help with the adjustment period. 

4. If you’re married, will you feel more comfortable making a plan and moving with your spouse? People often end up waiting until the loss of a spouse to plan a move to a retirement community, which can increase the difficultly several times over. Instead of waiting, start making a plan to move while you’re still a couple. 

Asking yourself these questions and others like them can be a great tool to help you realize you’re ready to make a plan for your retirement and your future. Whatever your plan may look like, it will give you great peace of mind to talk about it with your family and know that your outlook is bright. Reach out to the experts at Hillside Terrace Senior Living today to talk about your options for retirement. Remember that at Hillside Terrace, our family shares life with yours.

3 Things Seniors Wish They Considered before Planning Retirement

Are you planning retirement but aren’t sure which options are best for you? Looking for advice to help you plan your post-retirement path? Are you interested in a retirement home in Ann Arbor or still unsure if it’s the best way to go?

In your 50s, your retirement planning probably consists of saving as much money as you can. But there’s a stage of life that can come later that too many of us avoid planning for. Seniors who have been retired for some time will tell you there are considerations you should account for now, even if it seems like you are planning for things that are very far away. 

1. Spouse

Professionals working in a retirement home in Ann Arbor see the scenario again and again: a senior will move to a retirement community or assisted living only after the loss of their spouse and struggle unnecessarily. After a loss, moving to a new community can feel incredibly sudden, and disorienting. People who move into a retirement community with their spouse have a much easier time adjusting. That’s why many seniors would advise younger retirees to move to a community while you’re still young and still a couple.

2. Family

As much as some of us want to delay planning for the later stages of retirement, we also don’t want to leave the burden of making tough decisions up to our children and family. To make things easier on yourself and your family, many seniors would advise younger retirees to create a long-term plan now and make sure to talk about it with your family in case a difficult situation arises. 

3. Health 

It can be hard to plan for or even think about a time when you might be much less vibrant, sharp, and physically capable. But the facts are that many of us will require extra medical care and attention at some point in our golden years. Seniors would advise younger retirees to plan for the possibility and start looking into Continuing Care Retirement Communities, home nurses, or living with relatives long before it’s a necessity. 

Planning with these considerations in mind might not be your idea of fun, but putting a plan in place will solidify your retirement path for your entire future and make transitions much easier on you and your family. Reach out to the experts at Hillside Terrace Senior Living today to talk about your options for retirement. Remember that at Hillside Terrace, our family shares life with yours.

How to Choose the Best Retirement Community in Ann Arbor

Planning on making the move to a retirement community in Ann Arbor? Ready to retire but aren’t sure which community would be best? Want to be sure you’re making the right choice in retirement community?

Selecting a retirement community in Ann Arbor can be a stressful task. If you play your cards right, you’ll be choosing a home that could serve you for the rest of your life. No pressure! But don’t worry; you can make the choice easier with a simple process of building a list of your top priorities in retirement. Once you have a list just pick the community that’s the best match!

To get started on your list, answer some simple questions like these:  

1. Are you active?

If you’re active, that’s not something you want to change when you move into a retirement community. Look for a community that encourages and supports your active lifestyle. Less active seniors can choose a community that will help you meet your goals and maintain high quality of life. 

2. What are your medical care needs? 

Consider your current and future needs. If you already require regular medical assistance, a community that provides the right level of care is essential. Even if you’re perfectly healthy today, you may want to plan for the possibility of illness or accident in the future. 

3. What elements of your lifestyle do you need to accommodate? 

Whether you have pets, travel for extended periods, or can’t imagine living without a garden, important features of your lifestyle should be considered in your choice. 

4. Who is paying and what is the budget?

Whether you or a family member is paying, it’s important to be upfront and realistic about a budget. You don’t want to have to move later if it turns out the bill is not affordable. 

5. What are your memory care needs?

With an Alzheimer’s, dementia, or related diagnosis, access to memory care is very important. The heavy burden of these conditions can often be lessened by the right community and care. 

6. What amenities are you most interested in? 

Do a little browsing and make a list of 5 amenities that are most important to you, be it a fitness center, large grounds, or something more unique that will really bring you joy!

Reach out to Hillside Terrace Senior Living in Ann Arbor today!

A little legwork goes a long way! When you prepare a list of priorities by asking yourself a few simple questions, choosing the right retirement community becomes much easier. If you have more questions about retirement communities in Ann Arbor, contact us today. At Hillside Terrace, our family shares life with yours. 

3 Questions to Ask When Searching for a Retirement Community

Need help choosing a retirement community in Ann Arbor? Weighing your options for retirement? Hoping to make the search for a retirement community simpler? 

Choosing a retirement community in Ann Arbor shouldn’t be all business and no fun. But to make sure you find the best community for your needs, you may need to ask yourself and your family some tough questions. It’s best to get this task taken care of early so you can make the right decision in retirement communities and move on to the fun side of being retired! 

Questions to Ask When Searching for a Retirement Community in Ann Arbor. 

1. Who is paying and what is the budget?

This is an issue to settle early. You don’t want to stretch the budget too thin and end up moving to a new community or put anyone in financial trouble. Be totally honest and realistic about the budget before you dig into a search for communities. Some communities may offer discounts, credits, or be able to help with housing assistance.

2. What are your memory care needs?

Alzheimer’s, dementia, and other conditions that require memory care can be difficult to handle for all parties involved. If you’re already dealing with a diagnosis, finding a retirement community that is equipped and experienced in memory care is essential. The right care can dramatically improve quality of life as these conditions progress. 

3. What are your medical care needs? 

Consider your current needs and also consider the future. If you have a medical condition that is well-managed today, you may not be able to say the same in 5 or 10 years. Choose a community that can meet your needs today and in the future rather than planning to move. If you already have regular medical needs, look for a community that will keep you in the best health possible. 

Reach out to Hillside Terrace Senior Living in Ann Arbor today!

Consider these tough questions with your family and loved ones early in the process so you can confidently choose a retirement community in Ann Arbor that will best suit you. Remember, once you handle the serious business, it’s time for fun!

If you have more questions about retirement communities in Ann Arbor, contact us today. At Hillside Terrace, our family shares life with yours. 

“What Questions Should I Ask Before Choosing Assisted Living?”

Do you feel isolated at home?

Are you looking into communities with assisted living in Ann Arbor?

Are you prepared for the next chapter in you or your parent’s life?

We can help you ensure your research is complete by making sure you know to ask questions you may not have thought of, including:

1. Do you offer free transportation or other transportation alternatives?
2. What types of health services are offered on-site?
3. Do you offer a choice for meals?

For floorplan information and availability for assisted living in Ann Arbor, please contact us today at (734) 761-4451. For a virtual tour, visit The Gardens community page.

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! 

Tax Credit for the Elderly or Disabled: What You Need to Know

Want to know if you qualify for a tax credit for the elderly disabled? Interested in finding out more about a tax credit for people over 65? Looking for details on getting more from your tax return?

There are few tax credits out there that are truly simple. Sometimes it even seems that the more complicated the credit is, the more you really need it. Well, if you’re feeling unsure or overwhelmed looking at the tax credit for the elderly or disabled, we've put together a simple but comprehensive look at the credit to help you through it!

Form to Use: 1040 or 1040A

Qualifiers:

• Age and Disability: You or your spouse must be over 65 or have a permanent disability.
• Income: Must be less than $17,500 (single), $20,000 (married filing jointly, one spouse qualifies), $25,000 (married filing jointly, both qualify).
• Non-taxable Income: from social security, pensions, etc. must be less $5,000 (single, married filing jointly and only one spouse qualifies), $7,500 (married filing jointly and both qualify).

Calculating Your Credit: Use a Schedule R to figure out your credit. The instructions for Schedule R also include information on how to have the IRS calculate the credit for you. 

Other Sources: The IRS has published sources to assist seniors with this tax credit and taxes in general. These are IRS publication 524 and 554 respectively. 

With our simple guide to the elderly and disabled tax credit, you can feel confident that you’re more likely to get the return you really deserve! Although our guide should be useful, because taxes can be complicated and unique to your situation, it’s recommended that you seek the advice or services of a professional before filling.  If you have more questions about taxes or respite care in Ann Arbor, give us a call today. At Hillside Terrace, our family shares life with yours.

How to Downsize Your Parents' Home!

Are you looking to downsize your parents’ home?

Is their home too much work to keep up?

Are you having a hard time deciding what to keep and what to get rid of?

At Hillside Terrace, we know everything there is to know about moving into an assisted living community in Ann Arbor and want to help you downsize. Find out the things you should consider when you’re moving, here.

Get Started Today: Schedule a Tour! 

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 that 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– a facility for assisted living in Ann Arbor.

For more information about hospice care offered at Hillside Terrace, visit us at HillsideTerrace.net, or contact us here!

How to Manage Hoarding Behavior in a Person with Dementia

Has your loved one’s “waste not, want not” attitude gone a little too far? Are you dealing with the combination of hoarding behavior and dementia in an older family member? Need more help tackling this tough combo? 

The tendency towards collecting can be a normal and natural part of aging. Whether for nostalgic or practical reasons, the behavior might help the collector feel more comfortable and secure about aging. If a memory issue like dementia or Alzheimer’s takes hold, however, the collecting behavior can intensify and become a serious problem, interfering with the ability to live comfortably. 

Dementia on its own is already a lot to handle; adding hoarding to the mix might seem overwhelming. But there are actually a few easy tips caregivers can follow to help manage hoarding in a person with dementia. 

1. Be Kind

Address the issue with calmness and kindness. Hoarding isn’t something the person is doing intentionally, so punishment or anger will only hinder the process. Consider involving other people in the management of the problem or in a clean up so everyone has support in the process.

2. Use Incentives

If you need to go through and get rid of a significant amount of material, offer the person incentives to deal with the challenge. These could include donating items to charity, giving things to their church, or passing down to other family members. Personal rewards for hard work can be effective, too. 

3. Provide Distractions

Whether a major cleanup is necessary or not, to keep things under control moving forward, keep the person busy with active tasks. Activity will lessen the compulsion toward collecting and hoarding. Organization tasks, like sorting and labeling, can be particularly helpful. 

4. Know the Hiding Spots

Don’t try to eliminate collecting completely. Manage it by making sure you know the special places used for hiding so you can occasionally take a look and keep track of the behavior. You can even encourage collecting and storage in certain places, like a unique box or chest, to help control the behavior. 

5. Seek Advice

Make sure necessary doctors are aware of the behavior and ask for advice. This is especially important if you feel the behavior is out of control. Social workers and psychologists can also be a great help with a difficult cleanup or managing hoarding behavior. 

You can help a person for whom you’re providing care manage their hoarding, even when added complications like dementia make it seem impossible. These tips are simple to use and really work!

If you have questions about your options for a loved one in need of memory care in Ann Arbor, give us a call today. At Hillside Terrace Senior Living, our family shares life with your family.