Unplanned Life Changes – April 2025

If there is one constant in life, it is change. New changes arise as people move through each unique stage of life. The best way to anticipate change is to plan ahead. This seems to go without saying, and yet, many seniors are caught off guard when facing unexpected changes that come up later in life.

Seniors and their families may suddenly find themselves facing new shifts in housing, health and more with no plan in place. Local businesses throughout Lincoln are here to help ease their fears and worries surrounding these unplanned life changes, so that seniors and their loved ones never feel alone on their journey.

Prepare with Traditions Health (traditionshealth.com)

While most falls aren’t serious, one in five falls leads to painful problems like broken bones or even head injuries. Injuries from falls can also lead a person into a long recovery period and can affect many aspects of their day-to-day life, including how they get around in their home, cook or bathe.

It’s important to protect your loved ones who may be at a higher risk of falls due to their health problems or other issues. For example, a person may be at an increased risk of falling if they have:

• Balance or walking problems
• Foot problems or lower body weakness
• Medications that affect their balance
• Tripping hazards in their home
• Vision issues

Additionally, if someone falls once, their chance of doing so again doubles. To further complicate matters, they sometimes get so scared of falling again, that they become less active—which can lead them to become weaker which, unfortunately, puts them at even greater risk.

The good news? Proactive physical therapy can help older adults build strength, improve balance, and feel steadier on their feet; all with the goal of helping them stay healthy and safe as they age.

Even if someone’s risk of falling is fairly low, it’s best to be proactive by taking some simple preventive measures, including:

• Getting annual hearing and vision checks. Be sure to update eyeglass prescriptions and invest in hearing aids if needed.
• Help your family member stay active and strong. In addition to walking, it’s critical to engage in activities that will help maintain balance, strength, and flexibility. Look into local classes at a community or fitness center suitable for older adults. Or ask your home health provider for exercises they can do at home.
• Improve home safety. From better lighting throughout the house to grab bars and non-slip mats in the bathrooms, there’s a lot you can do as a caregiver to help.

Caring Friends Cares for You

Caring Friends (caringfriends.com) serves over 30 counties in Nebraska. They have relationships in each of the communities they serve and are able to meet their clients where they are. They connect with multiple other providers for food, health care, transportation and support the client through aging and different levels of care needs.

“Our company works with families and loved ones to make sure all the clients’ needs are addressed to keep them safe at home,” says COO of Caring Friends, Val Heedum.

Caring Friends is all about providing tailored and compassionate homecare for those closest to you. They want you to feel that your loved ones are not only being looked after, but being as supportive as you would. In one’s golden years, personal hygiene can get harder to accomplish on your own, which is why they’re here to help as much as they can. The Caring Friends team is here for you.

Stay active and social with the help of Caring Friends. Spring is finally here, and they can help you be as lively as you want in your home or in the sun. Read, shop or exercise under the helping hand of a Caring Friend. It’s not just business—it’s personal to them. They want you to be comfortable, and they’ll do anything to make sure of it.

Caring Friends provides non-medical in-home care services, helping seniors remain independent while receiving the assistance they need. They prove time and time again that the right support can make all the difference.

Husker Rehab Rehabilitates

Husker Rehab (huskerrehab.com) knows that physical therapy can be highly beneficial for seniors recovering from unplanned life events, such as a fall, surgery, stroke or injury, which is why they do their best to make sure that recovery is an easy path forward. The focus of the physical therapy will typically be on restoring mobility, strength and overall function, as well as managing pain and preventing further complications, and they’re the place to do it.

The team at Husker Rehab knows that healing is difficult and can sometimes require more than one stop to recovery, which is why they’re ready to recommend additional care for those that need it. Recovery always comes first. They recommend support groups for caregivers, home health agencies, and Aging Partners for those in need of something more. Healing always comes first at Husker Rehab.

Husker Rehab provides comprehensible physical therapy focusing on strengthening, balance activities and exercises to improve your daily tolerance to activity while decreasing risk for falling.
Their team’s compassion is something that Husker Rehab is the most proud of. They know that when speaking to seniors facing life changes, it’s important to offer empathy, support and reassurance.

No matter what brings you to Husker Rehab, they make sure to leave content. They treat every patient as a member of the Husker Rehab family. They treat the entire body and seek the root causes of the pain. They don’t just treat symptoms. Husker Rehab knows that recovery is a team effort, so they’ll listen to whatever you have in mind for recovery, never discouraging you, instead, supporting you in your efforts to reach the highest possible level of comfort and function you desire.

Stay with Cedar Creek of the High Plains

Unplanned life changes, such as the onset of memory-related conditions like Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, can be overwhelming for seniors and their families. During these transitions, finding a compassionate and supportive environment is essential. Cedar Creek of the High Plains (cedarhurstliving.com), located in Lincoln, Nebraska, specializes in providing personalized memory care, ensuring that residents receive the attention and support they need.

At Cedar Creek of the High Plains, the focus is on creating a nurturing environment where residents can experience a fulfilling and engaging lifestyle. The community is thoughtfully designed to accommodate individuals with dementia and memory-related conditions, offering both private and companion living arrangements to meet diverse needs. A dedicated team of caregivers provides around-the-clock support, ensuring safety, comfort, and a high quality of life.

Recognizing that each resident’s journey is unique, Cedar Creek of the High Plains offers individualized memory care programs tailored to personal needs. The community fosters a structured yet engaging daily schedule filled with activities designed to promote cognitive function, social interaction, and overall well-being. Every aspect of care is delivered with compassion, helping residents maintain a sense of independence while receiving the support they require.

In addition to specialized memory care, Cedar Creek of the High Plains offers a variety of services and amenities, including professional caregiving staff, routine housekeeping, and thoughtfully designed spaces that enhance comfort and security. The community’s commitment to excellence ensures that residents feel valued, respected, and supported as they navigate life’s unexpected transitions.

Facing unplanned life changes can be challenging, but Cedar Creek of the High Plains provides the guidance, care, and community needed to help seniors and their families embrace this new chapter with confidence and peace of mind.

Legacy Retirement Communities is Your Community

Legacy Retirement Communities (legacyretirement.com) knows that falls can lead to serious injuries which can result in long-term mobility issues, chronic pain, and loss of independence for seniors. They know that regular exercise, particularly balance and strength training, can significantly reduce the risk of falls and help seniors regain confidence in their mobility.

The nursing staff at Legacy is available 24/7 in their communities. They offer support in finding additional resources and help, including their own home care department. They have fitness professionals that offer personalized wellness plans and can work with residents on their rehabilitation and help them adapt to life changes after an injury or illness.

Change is difficult, which is why at the Legacies, they have Legacy Home Care which is companion care. They also offer referrals to outside agencies to potentially bring them in to provide assistance. If a resident is living in Independent Living, there may be a discussion to possibly move this person to Assisted Living for the additional help. If the senior is still living independently at home and is in need of extra help, a person would start with having a discussion with their family physician. There are many home health agencies that provide extra care, although a physician’s order is needed for this. Start by assessing the specific needs of your loved one and consulting with healthcare professionals who can guide you through the options and support available.

Legacy has always been a leader in their industry. When you become a part of the Legacy Retirement Communities Family, it is all yours for the asking.

Old Cheney Rehab Knows How to Help

Life is full of unexpected changes, and for senior citizens, unplanned events such as falls, injuries, or sudden health concerns can be particularly challenging. When a senior experiences an accident or illness, the road to recovery may feel overwhelming. However, with the right care, support and rehabilitation, it is possible to regain strength, restore independence and maintain a high quality of life.

One of the most common and serious concerns for seniors is fall-related injuries. Due to brittle bones and reduced mobility, falls can lead to fractures, hospital stays, and extended recovery periods. Many seniors struggle to regain their previous level of function, especially if they experience pain, limited movement, or complications from the initial injury. In many cases, the cause of the fall whether it be an infection, confusion, or a change in heart rhythm—must also be addressed to prevent future incidents.

At Old Cheney Rehabilitation (oldcheneyrehab.com), seniors receive comprehensive care and therapy services to help them recover from unplanned health changes. The facility offers short-term rehabilitation, including physical, occupational and speech therapy, as well as 24/7 skilled nursing care for those who require additional medical support. Services such as wound care, IV therapy and tube feeding management ensure that patients receive the highest level of care under the supervision of experienced medical professionals.

For seniors looking to prevent falls and maintain strength, daily physical activity is essential. Simple movements such as walking around the house, going outdoors, and following a prescribed therapy routine can help improve mobility and reduce the risk of future falls. Regular medical checkups are also crucial in identifying underlying health conditions that could contribute to falls or other unexpected health issues.

For families suddenly faced with the need for additional care, knowing where to start can be difficult. Consulting a doctor or local placement agency can provide valuable guidance on finding the right rehabilitation or care facility. Old Cheney Rehabilitation is dedicated to helping seniors regain strength and independence, with a focus on restoring their ability to return home whenever possible. Outpatient therapy services are also available for those who wish to continue their recovery with familiar therapists.

While change can be difficult, seniors should remember that they are not alone. Professional caregivers and rehabilitation specialists are available to provide the compassionate support and expert care needed to navigate these transitions successfully. Asking for help is the first step toward recovery, and with the right resources in place, seniors can continue to live strong, fulfilling lives.

A Well Being will Support You

A Well Being (awellbeingpt.org) is dedicated to helping seniors maintain their health and independence, particularly after facing unplanned life changes such as accidents, injuries, or illness. Dr. Casey, the founder, is a licensed physical therapist, certified athletic trainer, registered yoga teacher, and certified health coach, offering a comprehensive approach to care that goes beyond traditional physical therapy. Her services include the full continuum of care. A Well Being provides injury prevention, acute and chronic injury care, therapeutic rehabilitation including post-operative care, health coaching, yoga, and personal training as well as health care coordination and functional optimization.

One of the primary concerns for seniors is falls, as they can lead to serious health issues. The greatest predictor of a fall is the history of falls, even without injury. A Well Being offers annual balance assessments, addressing key components like the vestibular system, proprioception and vision. This service is designed not only to prevent falls before they happen but also to address risk for future falls and create interventions to mitigate said risk.

What sets A Well Being apart is the personalized, one-on-one, holistic approach. Dr. Casey takes the time to understand each individual’s needs, creating a tailored plan of care with a breadth of interventions which might include exercise, functional mobility, manual therapy, dry needling, pain management, joint mobilization/manipulation, stretching, activity modification, environmental alteration, neuromuscular re-education, gait training, assistive device fittings, chronic disease management, motor coordination, agility, and more. With mobile visits, seniors don’t need to worry about transportation and Dr. Casey ensures they have a full care team throughout their recovery.

For those facing changes in their health, A Well Being offers the support needed to navigate these challenges through easy access and flexibility with appointments addressing issues at initial onset, evidence-based treatment of injury and illness, addressing long-term health with ability to consider chronic health conditions, and implementation of injury prevention plans. Dr. Casey’s goal is to help seniors become their own well-being, fostering a sustainable, healthy lifestyle that minimizes the need for ongoing care.

CarePatrol’s Compassionate Guidance for Life’s Transitions

Life can change in an instant, and for seniors, unexpected events—such as a hospital discharge, a sudden decline in health, or the need for additional care—can be overwhelming. During these challenging times, having the right support system is essential to ensure safety, comfort, and peace of mind.

CarePatrol (carepatrol.com) is dedicated to guiding seniors and their families through these transitions with expert advice and compassionate care—at no cost to them. Through a comprehensive three-step process, we match seniors with the most suitable care community based on their physical, emotional, and social needs.

Care Discovery – We assess a senior’s medical requirements and personal preferences to identify communities that truly feel like home.

Care Selection – Our advisors present the top three matches, offering personalized tours and introductions to help families make informed decisions.

Care Decision – We provide ongoing support, anticipating future care needs to ensure long-term well-being.

Our local Senior Care Advisors personally pre-screen every recommended community, giving families confidence that their loved ones are placed in safe, high-quality environments. Even after move-in, CarePatrol remains a dedicated partner, conducting regular check-ins to ensure evolving care needs are met.

Best of all, our services are completely free for seniors and their families, providing expert guidance without financial burden.

Unplanned life changes can be difficult, but seniors and their families don’t have to face them alone. With CarePatrol’s free, expert guidance, they can transition into the right care setting with confidence and peace of mind.

Nebraska LTC Pharmacy Assits Your Loved Ones

Life’s unexpected changes can be particularly challenging for senior citizens. Health concerns, mobility limitations, and new medication regimens can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming. During these transitions, having reliable healthcare support is essential. Nebraska LTC Pharmacy (neltcpharmacy.com) is dedicated to providing seniors with compassionate, innovative services that go beyond those offered by big-box pharmacies, ensuring that they receive the care and attention they deserve.

For seniors facing new medical needs or lifestyle adjustments, Nebraska LTC Pharmacy offers free prescription delivery, ensuring that essential medications and supplies arrive directly at their door. Managing multiple prescriptions can also become difficult, but with adherence packaging, keeping track of medications is easier and more organized than ever.

Unexpected health changes may also require additional medical supplies. The pharmacy provides incontinence products, ostomy and colostomy supplies, wound care products, nebulizers, and diabetic testing supplies, ensuring that seniors have access to what they need without unnecessary stress. In addition, vaccinations for Influenza, Pneumonia, Tetanus, and Shingles help protect seniors from preventable illnesses.

Recognizing that some seniors may need more personalized care, Nebraska LTC Pharmacy also offers at-home consultations and injection services. Whether discussing new medications or considering a switch to a more personalized pharmacy experience, their team is committed to making healthcare transitions smoother and more convenient.

Unplanned life changes don’t have to be faced alone. With Nebraska LTC Pharmacy, seniors receive the care, resources, and support needed to navigate these transitions with confidence and peace of mind.

Navigating Unplanned Life Changes with Confidence with Nebraska Realty

Life is full of unexpected twists, and for senior citizens, unplanned changes such as health challenges, the loss of a spouse, or the need to downsize can feel overwhelming. However, these transitions don’t have to be faced alone. With the right support, they can become opportunities for a fresh start. Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group of Nebraska Realty (nebraskarealty.com) founded the first Nebraska Chapter of the National Aging In Place Council and have resources nationally available.

The specialized team of the Nebraska Real Estate Specialty Group of Nebraska Realty, ensures that seniors and their families receive expert guidance through life’s transitions. With a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) and Certified Seniors Housing Professional (CSHP) on their side, they can navigate downsizing, relocating, or selling a longtime home with ease. Whether the need arises suddenly or gradually, the goal is to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Through Nebraska Savvy Seniors, valuable resources such as Empowerment Seminars, the Downsizer’s Club and the Senior Stories Podcast provide seniors with the information and confidence needed to make well-informed decisions. Additionally, trusted professionals are available to assist with estate planning, home modifications, and emotional support, ensuring that families have access to the right help when they need it most. They have additional certifications to serve those 55 and over, which sets them apart from typical realtors.

While unplanned changes can be challenging, no one has to navigate them alone. With extensive knowledge of Lincoln, Nebraska, and decades of experience in real estate and business, Nebraska Realty is dedicated to equipping, educating, and empowering seniors to embrace life’s next chapter with confidence. Every transition is an opportunity to create a meaningful and fulfilling future.

Live Right with Salt Creek Senior Living

Salt Creek Senior Living (dialseniorliving.com) in Lincoln, Nebraska offers a comprehensive range of services and a reimagined retirement experience for seniors. Providing independent living, assisted living, and memory care, Salt Creek is designed to meet the diverse needs of its residents. The community prides itself on offering tailored care to ensure that all seniors live their lives to the fullest, with a focus on high-quality culinary experiences, meticulously designed amenities, and personalized care.

Whether residents are looking for a vibrant independent lifestyle or need extra support, Salt Creek’s team is dedicated to providing the assistance required for a comfortable and fulfilling life. The community offers an inviting atmosphere, with activities and services that promote socialization, physical health, and overall well-being. With a strong commitment to improving the lives of its residents, Salt Creek is an ideal option for those navigating unplanned life changes, providing a welcoming environment for those in need of care and support.

Waterford Communities Shares Community

Waterford Communities (thewaterford.net) knows that falls can take a big toll on seniors, not just physically but emotionally too. A fall can shake their confidence and make them scared to stay active and we want our residents moving, grooving and living life to the fullest! Plus, falls can lead to injuries that make it harder to bounce back, which is why we focus on keeping everyone strong and steady.

Movement is medicine! Staying active with daily exercises, dancercises and walking groups helps build strength and balance. We like to keep things fun you’re more likely to exercise when you’re laughing with friends! Whether it’s dancing or stretching during morning exercise, we’re always finding ways to keep our residents moving without it feeling like a chore.

At The Waterford at College View, we’re an assisted living community but what really makes us special is how we make it feel like HOME. Our motto is “Where home is…” and we live that out every single day. When life throws those unexpected curveballs whether it’s an illness, injury, or just needing a little extra help we’re right here to wrap our arms around our residents and cheer them on every step of the way.

We create personalized care plans because no two people are the same everyone has their own story, and we’re here to make sure they keep living it to the fullest. If hospice care becomes part of the journey, we work right alongside the hospice provider of their choice to make sure this stays their home, full of love, laughter, and familiar faces.

Change is difficult, so start by taking a deep breath you’re not alone! The best first step is to have a conversation. Ask questions, share concerns and lean on the experts around you. Our team is always ready with a warm cup of coffee, a listening ear and plenty of encouragement to guide families through every step.

It’s all about heart! We believe life should be celebrated at every age, and we pour love into everything we do. From bingo games to craft clubs to spontaneous dance parties, we create moments that spark joy. Every resident has their own story, and we want to help them keep writing the best chapters yet.

Visting Angels Guides You to Safety

Visiting Angels (visitingangels.com) in Lincoln, Nebraska, provides compassionate in-home care services tailored to meet the unique needs of seniors facing life changes, including accidents, illness, or aging-related challenges. Their experienced caregivers assist with a variety of tasks, from personal care and mobility support to specialized services such as dementia care, palliative care, and respite care. The goal is to help seniors maintain their independence and live comfortably in their own homes while ensuring families have peace of mind.

By offering customized care plans, Visiting Angels addresses the physical, emotional, and social needs of each individual. Their approach is centered on enhancing quality of life and supporting family caregivers. They provide essential services like fall prevention, meal preparation, and companionship, ensuring that seniors have the support they need to thrive despite health challenges. With flexible scheduling and highly trained professionals, Visiting Angels allows families to manage unplanned life transitions without added stress.

If you or a loved one are navigating a significant life change, Visiting Angels provides personalized, non-medical care that empowers seniors to live safely and comfortably at home.

Noreen Home Care Lends a Caring Hand

Unplanned life changes can be challenging, especially for seniors who may face unexpected health issues or require additional support. Noreen Home Care (noreencares.com) offers comprehensive, compassionate home care services designed to assist seniors through these transitions. They specialize in personal care, medication reminders, transportation, respite care, and more, ensuring that families have peace of mind as their loved ones navigate these difficult changes.

Noreen Home Care focuses on individualized care, tailoring services to meet each client’s unique needs. Their commitment to quality care extends to providing 24-hour assistance, ensuring that seniors receive the support they need at any hour of the day or night. They also collaborate with community providers to offer additional services like physical and occupational therapy, making it easier for families to access all the support they need without the stress of managing multiple care providers.

For those facing serious illnesses, Noreen Home Care partners with hospice services, allowing clients to receive necessary medical care at home. With a focus on maintaining dignity, safety, and comfort, Noreen Home Care plays a pivotal role in helping seniors live independently while ensuring their families feel supported throughout the journey.

We recommend reaching out to these local businesses to help you get through unplanned changes and adjust to the next chapter of life. When it comes to senior living and other unplanned life changes, Lincoln is home to so many amazing providers to support you and get you the services to fit your particular situation to a tee. Look to these folks for help when you need it most!