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February 17, 2026

Early Detection: A Team-Based Approach

Category: Health & Wellness

Author: April Coles Hampton, Wellness Director

Early detection is essential to keeping residents at University Senior Living safe and well. Subtle changes in behavior, appetite, mobility, or mood often signal that something may be wrong. When we identify concerns early, we intervene quickly, address issues proactively, and help prevent hospitalizations or serious complications. Early detection requires consistent observation, clear communication, and the confidence to act on informed instincts.

Building Awareness Through Education

I encourage staff to speak up whenever they notice even a small change in a resident. Ongoing education strengthens that awareness. Through brief, focused in-service sessions on specific conditions and health concerns, staff build knowledge and confidence. As a result, they observe residents more closely and report abnormal findings without delay. This proactive mindset helps us respond before minor concerns become larger issues.

Daily Routines That Support Early Detection

Stand-up meetings and rounding play a vital role in our approach. During stand-up, I actively engage department heads and ask whether they have noticed declines or unusual behaviors, especially in dining and activities. In addition, I maintain a list of residents I round on at least twice a week. I focus on new residents adjusting to the community and those showing behavioral or health changes. This structure allows me to track progress and intervene quickly when needed.

Staff-led walking rounds also support fall prevention. By identifying concerns early, team members address needs before they escalate. These simple, consistent practices strengthen safety and accountability across departments.

Strengthening Safety and Family Confidence

Families benefit when we identify and address changes promptly. Clear communication and timely follow-up build trust and confidence in our care. Families feel reassured when they see a proactive team protecting their loved one’s well-being.

Early detection also keeps residents safer in their apartments. Simple actions such as improving lighting, removing clutter, and eliminating tripping hazards reduce fall risk. By identifying environmental risks early, we protect residents from injury and help them remain safely at home.

When our team pairs early identification with timely assessment and thorough documentation, we respond quickly and improve outcomes. This commitment allows us to continue delivering thoughtful, person-centered care that helps residents thrive at University Senior Living.

Welcome to University Senior Living, conveniently located near the prestigious University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI. Our vibrant senior living community offers both Assisted Living and Memory Care options, with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. In addition, our community expands beyond our campus as it is close to retail shops, and cultural hubs, and the University of Michigan campus ensures residents have easy access to a variety of adventures and opportunities for engagement inside and outside of the community. Come experience the enriching lifestyle and compassionate care that University Senior Living has to offer. Schedule a tour today and discover why our community is the perfect choice for your retirement journey.

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