Understanding Assisted Living and Memory Care
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Written by webtechs

Understanding Assisted Living and Memory Care

Sure! Here’s a clear overview of Assisted Living and Memory Care to help you understand the differences and what each offers:

Assisted Living

What it is:
Assisted living is a residential option for older adults or people with disabilities who need some help with daily activities but want to maintain independence.

Who it’s for:

  • Seniors who need help with things like bathing, dressing, medication management, or meal preparation.

  • People who want a social environment with opportunities for activities and community interaction.

Services typically include:

  • Assistance with daily living activities (ADLs)

  • Medication reminders or administration

  • Housekeeping and laundry

  • Meals served in a common dining area

  • Transportation to appointments or errands

  • Social and recreational programs

  • 24/7 staff availability for safety and emergencies

Living environment:

  • Private or semi-private apartments or rooms

  • Community common spaces for socializing

  • Usually less medical intensive than nursing homes

Memory Care

What it is:
Memory care is a specialized form of assisted living focused on caring for individuals with memory-related conditions, like Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia.

Who it’s for:

  • People with Alzheimer’s or other dementias who need a secure environment and specialized care tailored to memory loss.

  • Residents who require a higher level of supervision due to safety concerns like wandering or confusion.

Services typically include:

  • All the assistance offered in assisted living, plus:

  • Specialized programming designed for cognitive stimulation and memory support

  • Staff trained specifically in dementia care and behavior management

  • Secure, locked environments to prevent wandering

  • Structured daily routines and therapeutic activities

  • Increased supervision and monitoring

Living environment:

  • Often a distinct secured area within an assisted living or nursing facility

  • Designed to be calming, safe, and easy to navigate for those with memory challenges

Summary

Feature Assisted Living Memory Care
Primary Focus Help with daily activities and independence Specialized care for dementia and memory loss
Resident Needs Mild to moderate assistance Moderate to high supervision and care needs
Staff Training General caregiving Dementia and Alzheimer’s care
Security Standard safety measures Secured, locked environments to prevent wandering
Activities Social and recreational programs Cognitive therapies and memory-focused activities

If you’re considering these options for yourself or a loved one, the choice often depends on the level of care needed, especially around memory and safety concerns.

Can You Transition From Assisted Living to Memory Care?

You can transition from assisted living to memory care, and this happens quite often.

Here’s how that typically works:

Why Transition from Assisted Living to Memory Care?

  • A resident in assisted living may develop memory-related issues like Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia.

  • Their care needs increase, especially for supervision and safety, which assisted living might not be equipped to provide.

  • Memory care offers specialized staff training, secure environments, and tailored activities that better support cognitive decline.

How the Transition Happens

  1. Assessment:
    Care staff or healthcare professionals evaluate the resident’s cognitive and physical needs to determine if memory care is necessary.

  2. Discussion with Family and Resident:
    Families and the resident (if possible) are involved in decision-making about moving to memory care.

  3. Facility Move:
    If the assisted living community has a memory care unit, the resident can usually transfer within the same community.
    If not, they may need to move to a different facility that specializes in memory care.

  4. Adjusting Care Plan:
    Memory care involves a different care plan focused on safety, routine, and cognitive support.

Benefits of Transitioning Within the Same Community

  • Less disruption for the resident since they stay in a familiar setting

  • Staff already familiar with the resident’s needs and preferences

  • Easier for families to visit

Important:
If you or a loved one is currently in assisted living and memory issues arise, it’s a good idea to discuss options early with care managers to plan a smooth transition if needed.

Questions to Ask When Considering a Transition to Memory Care

1. About the Memory Care Program

  • What specific memory care services do you provide?

  • How is the care tailored to individuals with different stages of dementia?

  • What is the staff-to-resident ratio in the memory care unit?

  • Are staff specially trained in dementia and Alzheimer’s care? How often do they receive training?

  • What kind of activities and therapies do you offer to support cognitive health?

2. Safety and Security

  • Is the memory care area secured to prevent wandering?

  • How do you monitor residents’ safety, especially those prone to wandering or agitation?

  • What emergency procedures are in place if a resident becomes disoriented or tries to leave?

  • Are there security systems (e.g., alarms, cameras)?

3. Transition Process

  • How do you assess when a resident is ready for memory care?

  • What is the process for moving from assisted living to memory care?

  • Is the transition handled within the same community or does it require moving to a different facility?

  • How do you support residents and families during the transition?

4. Care and Medical Support

  • What medical services are available on-site or nearby?

  • How do you manage medications, especially those related to memory conditions?

  • How do you handle behavioral challenges or mood changes common in dementia?

  • Is 24/7 nursing or medical staff available?

5. Family Involvement and Communication

  • How do you keep families informed about their loved one’s condition and daily life?

  • Are family members involved in care planning?

  • What visitation policies are in place?

  • Are there support groups or resources for families?

6. Costs and Contracts

  • What is the monthly cost for memory care, and what does it include?

  • Are there additional fees for specialized services?

  • What is your policy on contract length and termination?

  • Is financial assistance or insurance accepted?

7. Quality and Reputation

  • Can you provide references or testimonials from other families?

  • What are your facility’s licensing and inspection records?

  • How do you handle complaints or concerns from residents or families?

Memory Care At Desert Winds Retirement In Peoria, Arizona 

If you are searching for a memory care facility in Peoria, Arizona, Desert Winds Retirement Community is the facility for you! Travel over to our memory care page to see pictures find out more about our facility, amenities, floor plans and more.

 

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Activities for Seniors, Assisted Living, Assisted Living Benefits, assisted living communities, Assisted Living Community, assisted living facility, Memory Care
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Independent Living Costs 2025
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Written by webtechs

Independent Living Costs 2025

Independent senior living costs in 2025 vary based on location, amenities, and services offered. Here’s an overview:

National Averages:

  • Monthly Costs: The median monthly cost for independent living facilities in the United States is approximately $3,065.

Arizona Specifics:

  • State Average: In Arizona, monthly costs range from $2,200 to $4,500.

Factors Influencing Costs:

  • Location: Urban areas or popular retirement destinations may have higher costs due to demand and available amenities.

  • Amenities and Services: Communities offering extensive services such as dining plans, housekeeping, wellness programs, and transportation may charge higher fees.

  • Residence Size and Type: Larger or more luxurious accommodations will typically cost more.

Planning Considerations:

  • Budget Assessment: Evaluate your financial situation to determine what you can afford monthly.

  • Community Comparison: Visit multiple communities to compare costs, services, and amenities.

  • Contract Review: Carefully read contracts to understand what is included in the monthly fee and any additional costs.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your financial situation and lifestyle preferences.

Key Features of Independent Senior Living

Independent senior living communities offer a range of features designed to provide comfort, convenience, and an active lifestyle for older adults. Here are some key features:

1. Private Residences

  • Apartments, cottages, or villas with varying layouts and sizes
  • Maintenance-free living (no home repairs, lawn care, or housekeeping)

2. Community Amenities

  • Clubhouses, game rooms, and common gathering spaces
  • Fitness centers and wellness programs
  • Libraries, theaters, and hobby rooms

3. Dining Services

  • On-site restaurants, cafés, or communal dining areas
  • Meal plans with flexible options
  • Special dietary accommodations available

4. Social & Recreational Activities

  • Scheduled events, clubs, and group outings
  • Arts and crafts, music, and educational workshops
  • Fitness classes like yoga, tai chi, or water aerobics

5. Transportation Services

  • Shuttle buses for shopping, doctor’s appointments, and local events
  • Private transportation options available in some communities

6. Safety & Security

  • 24/7 emergency response systems
  • Gated communities or secured access buildings
  • On-site staff or concierge services

7. Healthcare & Wellness Support

  • On-site medical assistance or partnerships with healthcare providers
  • Physical therapy, wellness checks, and medication management available in some communities
  • Access to assisted living or skilled nursing if needs change

8. Maintenance & Housekeeping

  • Weekly or bi-weekly housekeeping services
  • Laundry facilities or in-unit washers/dryers
  • On-site maintenance for repairs and upkeep

9. Pet-Friendly Options

  • Many communities welcome pets and provide designated walking areas
  • Some offer pet-sitting or grooming services

10. Flexible Living Arrangements

  • Independent living with optional support services
  • The ability to transition to assisted living or memory care if needed

Independent senior living is designed for older adults who want to maintain an active, social, and maintenance-free lifestyle while having access to convenient services.

Independent Living In Peoria, Arizona

There will be a time in our lives where having a little help when we need it will give us peace of mind. Having peace of mind isn’t just for your loved ones, it is for your friends and family knowing that your loved ones have trained staff to help with what they need. Having their own apartment with trained and experienced staff around makes retirement years enhanced with socialization and activities.

If it is time for a change, contact us at SLS Communities about what location is best for your loved one. Give us a call today at 623-343-5830 or schedule a free tour of our independent living facility in Peoria, Arizona. Make sure you download our independent living checklist.

Activities for Seniors, Assisted Living, Assisted Living Benefits, Independent Living
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Making Friends When You Are Retired
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

Making Friends When You Are Retired

Making friends after retirement can enrich your social life and provide new opportunities for enjoyment and engagement. Here are some tips to help you build and maintain friendships in retirement:

1. Pursue Hobbies and Interests

  • Join Clubs or Groups: Participate in clubs or groups that align with your interests, such as book clubs, gardening clubs, or art classes. Shared interests provide a natural way to connect with others.
  • Take Classes: Enroll in adult education classes or workshops. Learning something new can help you meet people with similar interests.

2. Volunteer

  • Community Service: Volunteer for local organizations, charities, or community events. Volunteering not only helps others but also offers opportunities to meet people who are passionate about similar causes.

3. Stay Active

  • Exercise Groups: Join a fitness class, walking group, or sports league. Physical activities can be a great way to meet new people and stay healthy.
  • Dance or Yoga Classes: Consider joining dance or yoga classes, which often have social components.

4. Engage in Social Activities

  • Attend Events: Go to local events, fairs, or festivals. These can be good opportunities to meet people in a relaxed setting.
  • Social Gatherings: Host or attend social gatherings like potlucks, game nights, or coffee meet-ups.

5. Leverage Technology

  • Social Media: Use social media platforms like Facebook or Meetup to find local groups or events that interest you.
  • Online Forums: Participate in online forums or communities related to your hobbies or interests. This can lead to in-person meet-ups.

6. Connect Through Family and Friends

  • Family Introductions: Ask family members or friends to introduce you to their social circles.
  • Reconnect: Reach out to former colleagues, old friends, or acquaintances you’ve lost touch with.

7. Join Senior Centers or Organizations

  • Senior Centers: Many communities have senior centers that offer social activities, classes, and events specifically designed for retirees.
  • AARP or Similar Groups: Organizations like AARP offer local chapters and events where you can meet people.

8. Be Open and Approachable

  • Initiate Conversations: Take the initiative to start conversations with people you meet. Simple greetings and questions about common interests can spark friendships.
  • Be a Good Listener: Show genuine interest in others by listening actively and asking questions.

9. Participate in Local Community Activities

  • Community Boards: Check local community boards or websites for events and activities that may interest you.
  • Cultural Activities: Attend concerts, theater performances, or art exhibitions.

10. Join or Form a Support Group

  • Support Groups: Join support groups for specific interests or issues, such as health-related groups, caregiving groups, or grief support groups.
  • Form Your Own Group: If you have a specific interest or need, consider forming your own group and inviting others to join.

Building friendships in retirement involves putting yourself out there, being open to new experiences, and finding ways to connect with others who share your interests. By engaging in activities you enjoy and staying active in your community, you can create meaningful and lasting connections

Memory Care At Desert Winds Retirement In Peoria, Arizona 

If you are searching for a memory care facility in Peoria, Arizona, Desert Winds Retirement Community is the facility for you! Travel over to our memory care page to see pictures find out more about our facility, amenities, floor plans and more.

More Articles About Senior Living

Activities for Seniors, Dementia
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Making Friends When You Are Retired
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

5 Easy Crafts For Seniors With Dementia

If you are searching for “easy crafts for seniors with dementia“, this article will list five of the top activities for your loved ones.

Best Crafts For Seniors With Dementia

The best way to set up any activities or tasks for seniors is to make sure there is no right or wrong way to accomplish the task. All of the following activities are meant to be enjoyable. These crafts have been shown to improve confidence, self-esteem and even curb behavioral issues or depression.

Safety is the most important part of putting together these fun craft activities. Make sure you stay clear of any potentially dangerous movements and avoid choking hazards, as well.

1. Scrapbooking

Scrapbooking is a great activity, and one that is enjoyed by people of all ages. For seniors, this is an even more beneficial task, as it really puts their creativity on display. Equip the senior in your life with a magazine, newspaper clips, a small notebook and a glue stick. Leave the arrangement or goal to the senior and see where this leads. Bringing an example scrapbook for reference is always helpful.

2. Fun With Magnetic Letters

Put a large assortment of magnetic letters on a metal baking sheet. Then, see what your loved one can come up with. This is also a task that can be done as part of a group; which makes it more fun for all parties. Another way to use magnets is to just enjoy matching up and sorting the shapes, letters and colors.

3. Enjoy Some Play Dough

All age groups can have fun messing around with play dough and modeling clay. Grab a few cookie cutters and watch the senior enjoy this fun hobby. Try mixing in some essential oils to give the dough a pleasant sent. Make sure it’s non-toxic and do not store it in the refrigerator.

4. Sort Through Coins

Sorting through coins can be fun and productive, at the same time. This activity can even remind the senior of earlier stages in life, planning and keeping a budget for everyday life.

5. Keep A Beat With Homemade Shaker

This last activity has been proven to be very beneficial for seniors with memory issues. Keeping a beat will sharpen focus. The suggested way to keep a beat consistently is by using a homemade shaker. Our suggestion is to fill a plastic container with either dry beans or pasta.

Memory Care At Desert Winds Retirement In Peoria, Arizona 

If you are searching for a memory care facility in Peoria, Arizona, Desert Winds Retirement Community is the facility for you! Travel over to our memory care page to see pictures find out more about our facility, amenities, floor plans and more.

More Articles About Senior Living

Activities for Seniors, Dementia
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7 Core Exercises For Seniors
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

7 Core Exercises For Seniors

Seniors can improve stamina, coordination, balance and posture by performing daily core workouts. If you are searching for “core exercises for seniors“, Desert Winds Retirement has 7 workouts perfect for you!

Best Core Exercises For Seniors

Here are some of the best exercises for seniors looking to strengthen their core:

  1. Leg Lifts
  2. Plank
  3. Bridge
  4. Squats
  5. The Superman
  6. Dead Bug
  7. Knee Lifts

Leg Lifts

  • Lie down on the floor.
  • Stay flat on your back.
  • Use a yoga or exercise mat for extra comfort.
  • Raise one leg approximately five inches off the floor.
  • Contract your abdominal muscles as you lift your leg.
  • Hold the pose for 3-5 seconds.
  • Repeat with the other leg.
  • Alternate leg movements.

Plank

  • Lie on your stomach with your forearms pressed on the floor.
  • Keep your back straight.
  • Push yourself off the floor by squeezing your glutes, quads and abdominal muscles.
  • Don’t let your shoulder blades sag forward by continuing to press into your forearms.
  • Hold for 10-20 seconds.
  • Return to starting position.

Bridge

  • Lie flat on your back to start.
  • Bend your knees, keeping your feet flat on the ground.
  • Tighten your core while raising your hips.
  • This should form a straight line between your chest and knees.
  • Refrain from arching your back.
  • Hold this pose for a few seconds before lowering back to starting position.
  • Repeat several times.

Squats

  • Stand with your feet width-length apart.
  • Keep your back straight.
  • Bend your knees with your arms stretched out.
  • Hold onto a chair with your arms for balance.
  • Bend your knees, getting your calves and thighs to make a 90-degree angle.
  • Only bend as far as you feel comfortable, though!
  • Do squats in sets of 5-15.

The Superman

  • Stretch your arms out in front of you while lying face-down on the floor.
  • Lift your head, left arm and right leg all at the same time.
  • Bring your arm and length approximately two inches off the floor.
  • Return to starting position.
  • Repeat the motion with the opposite side, alternating turns.

Dead Bug

  • Bend your knees while lying flat on the floor.
  • Pull your belly button in and your back towards the floor.
  • Raise your right leg so your shin is now parallel to the floor.
  • Do this motion while keeping your knee bent the whole time.
  • Bring your right foot back to the floor.
  • Now do the same with your left leg.

Knee Lifts

  • Sit with your back straight and feet planted on the floor.
  • Keep your knees a few inches apart.
  • Raise one foot at a time.
  • Make sure your knees come straight up from the starting position.
  • Try to raise your foot at least 3 inches off the ground.
  • Repeat the motion with each foot, 5-15 times each.

Benefits Of Core Exercises

There are many benefits of core exercises, especially for seniors. First off, core exercises will improve overall balance. All movements will be more controlled after working out your core. With the improved balance comes improved body strength and a reduced risk of injury.

A strong core will make daily tasks easier. Standing up or even getting out of bed is more difficult when dealing with a weak core. Stronger cores reduce pain levels by strengthening the lower back at the same time.

Independent Living At Desert Winds Retirement In Peoria, Arizona 

If you are searching for an independent living facility in Peoria, Arizona, Desert Winds Retirement Community is the facility for you! Travel over to our independent living page to see pictures find out more about our facility, amenities, floor plans and more.

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Golf Exercises For Seniors
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

Golf Exercises For Seniors

Golf is a favorite sport for seniors looking for exercise, competition and a little peace and quiet. But, with aging comes lack of flexibility and overall strength. Use this guide to help improve your game with a few simple golf exercises for today’s seniors.

Hip Stretches

The hips are a crucial asset for golfers. Your hips need to be loose whenever you approach the tee. Make sure to stretch out in the morning before hitting the links.

  • Lie flat on your back with your knees in the air and feet planted on the ground.
  • Bend at the waste with your torso remaining on the floor.
  • Drop both knees to the left side and hold the pose for a good 10-15 seconds.
  • Return to the starting pose and repeat the exercise, this time to the right. You’ll notice the difference this stretch can make for your swing.

Back Exercises

Back pain, especially when it persists, can be extremely difficult for golfers to endure. Be sure to take care of this issue before heading out on the course. Try a specific back exercise called ‘bridges.’

  • This stretch requires you to lie on your back while bending the knees and keeping your feet flat on the ground.
  • Have your arms flat on ground.
  • Keep your feet shoulder width apart.
  • Keep your shoulders and hands flat on the ground while raising your hips.
  • The hips should form a perfect, straight line from your knees all the way to your head.
  • Lower yourself back down to the ground, slowly.
  • Repeat this motion at least 8-10 times total.

Quad Exercises

Senior golfers may experience cramping in the quadriceps while out on the links. Here is a way to help avoid that pain.

  • Stand with both feet firmly on the ground.
  • Use a door or another large, heavy object to help steady yourself.
  • Bend one leg and knee while holding it firmly as close to your buttocks as possible. Use the hand on that side to hold your leg in this position.
  • Keep the pose for about 10-15 seconds.
  • You should definitely feel your quad stretching.

Leg Stretches

Your legs are vital to the strength you put into your swing on the course. Keep them loose, yet strong at the same time with this easy stretch.

  • Sit straight up in a chair, both feet flat on the floor.
  • Keep your back straight and slowly raise one leg, keeping it horizontal with the floor.
  • Hold for a good 3-5 seconds.
  • Repeat this motion with the other leg.
  • Do this motion 8-10 times on each side.

Looking for the best clubs for seniors? Click right here.

Independent Living At Desert Winds Retirement In Peoria, Arizona 

If you are searching for an independent living facility in Peoria, Arizona, Desert Winds Retirement Community is the facility for you! Travel over to our independent living page to see pictures find out more about our facility, amenities, floor plans and more.

More Articles About Senior Living

Activities for Seniors
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Regular Post
Written by webtechs

Enjoyable Activities for Seniors

Enjoyable Activities for Seniors

If you’re searching for enjoyable activities for seniors, this post should help!

1. Spend Time Reading

Reading is a great activity for today’s seniors. It’s a nice way to pass the time and keep their brains engaged. It may also improve cognitive memory, reduce their stress, improve their sleep, and can help postpone cognitive decline. Even if your senior likes reading a physical book, paper magazines, using an e-reader or tablet, or listening to audiobooks, they can engross themselves in a good story, look at pictures, and can learn about interesting new issues.

2. Explore Various Hobbies

Hobbies are excellent for those seniors that have limited mobility. Activities that don’t need a lot of moving around includes cooking and baking, birdwatching, knitting, indoor gardening, playing or learning a musical instrument, or possibly learning new a language. This is also a great time to learn new things – there could be hobbies or interests that they have never had a chance to try before. Learning is also an excellent way to keep their mind active and can prevent them from being bored.

3. Regular Exercising

Even if your senior isn’t that mobile, there are still exercises they can try to help get their bodies moving. It doesn’t matter if they are sitting or are standing, they can still acquire the health and mood benefits they need, sometimes from types of chair exercises or chair yoga programs. There are also exercise programs that can be done utilizing a walker to keep them stable or just focused on their feet and ankles to help reduce swelling.

4. Start Getting Creative

Getting in touch with your seniors’ creative side is another excellent way for them to pass the spend time. Sketching and drawing, using colored pencils, painting, and sculpture are all great ways to get creative. Fun projects can include scrapbooking, organizing a family photo album, or starting a family recipe book. As an added bonus, being creative can also come with health benefits. Research has shown that creative activities can help those who are battling chronic illness to reduce negative feelings and increase the positive ones, reducing stress and anxiety, and strengthen medical outcomes.

5. Get Outside

Going outdoors to spend some time with nature is relaxing and an excellent mood booster. Even if having limited mobility means that your senior can only go to the porch or get next to a large window, getting a little fresh air or taking in the scenery is an excellent everyday activity.

6. Get With Happy Visitors

Asking friends or family that have babies or friendly pets to come over for a visit is another great way to engage with your senior. A lot of people perk up when in the presence of young children. And interacting with pets is another great way to bring cheer to them and reduce their stress.

7. Play Some Games!

Games and puzzles are a great source of fun times. There are so many games and puzzles to choose from and a lot of them can be played with other seniors, with visitors, one-on-one for face to face time together, and even by themselves.

8. Watch Some Movies, TV Shows, Or Listen To Music

If your senior is watching TV all day, each day it can’t be healthy for them. But a movie or a TV show can be an enjoyable experience every so often. Watching TV could even interconnect with a hobby. As an example, your senior may be interested in watching a documentary on a hobby they’re trying to learn. Or perhaps, channels like a cooking channel or a travel channel may inspire new recipes to try out or world destinations to learn about. Listening to music another enjoyable activity. Music can reduce stress, lower anxiety, and sometimes alleviate pain. It can also enhance immune function and sleep and can also help with memory.

9. Participate In Charities

Even if your senior isn’t that mobile or has to stay home, they can still give back to their community. Speak with local charities, hospitals, or religious centers and find out if they have any projects that your senior could participate in. This may mean creating blankets or gloves, creating no-sew blankets, or putting together care packages.

Find more activities for seniors at SLS Communities!

Assisted Living, Independent Living & Memory Care In Peoria, Arizona

Independent Living: Searching For Independent Living In Peoria or Independent Living In Phoenix? Desert Winds can help! We offer the highest standard of independent living services in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area.

Assisted Living: Searching For Assisted Living In Peoria or Assisted Living In Sun City West? Desert Winds can help! We offer the highest standard of assisted living services in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area.

Memory Care: Searching For Memory Care In Peoria, Arizona? Desert Winds can help! We offer the highest standard of memory care services in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area.

If you would like to schedule a tour please give us a call at 623-343-5830. 

Activities for Seniors, Senior Living
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