Category: Home Healthcare Guide

Fall Prevention: 12 Steps to Prevent Falls | & what to do if you or someone else does fall

Posted on by Martin

For seniors, one of the biggest dangers in daily life is simple: falling.

While falling may sound like it’s no big deal, it can be disastrous or even deadly for seniors.

Today, 1 out of every four seniors falls at least once a year, but few tell their doctors or loved ones. It gets even worse than that, though.

Each year, 2.8 million people over the age of 65 are treated in emergency rooms around the country for injuries stemming from falls and more than 800,000 seniors are hospitalized each year because of a fall-related injury. Falls currently rank as the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) in older adults and cost upward of $31 billion annually.

These are shocking statistics, and they make it clear that falling is a dangerous reality that affects thousands of seniors in the place they should be the safest: their own homes.

Luckily, there are proactive steps seniors, caregivers, and family members can take to prevent falls, and address them properly if they do happen.

Read on and learn some proven methods to ensure fall prevention.

12 Simple Ways to Prevent Falls in Seniors

Fall prevention is simple, and it can go a long way toward protecting the health and well-being of seniors everywhere. Get started with these 12 easy steps:

1. Make a doctor’s appointment

While falling has many causes, ranging from loss of balance and vision to weakness, falling can also be caused by medications, especially sedatives or antidepressants. With this in mind, the first step to preventing falls is to see your doctor about the medications you’re taking and the potential side effects of each drug.

In many cases, the doctor will be able to prescribe a medication with a lower fall risk or one that is less likely to interact with the other medications you currently take.

2. Get active on a daily basis

Balance and strength are both a “use it or lose it” thing, and seniors who give up physical activity often don’t have the stability or muscle definition to keep themselves from falling. Unfortunately, many seniors assume that staying active is impossible as an older person, and they give up things like walking, running, or yoga because of it.

Luckily, the activity you choose doesn’t have to be high-impact to unleash its benefits. Tai chi is a great option for activity, as is swimming. In fact, it doesn’t matter what you do, just so long as you do something every day to improve your coordination, strength, balance, and flexibility.

3. Wear sturdy, balanced footwear daily  

Certain types of shoes, like flimsy flip-flops or high heels, increase the risk of falling. With this in mind, ensure that the shoes you choose to wear are going to help your balance rather than harm it. For the best possible stability, choose sturdy, well-fitted shoes with non-skid soles.

4. Remove tripping hazards from your home

Sometimes, things in the home can increase the risk of falling and injuring yourself. Things like extension cords, plant stands, and loose rugs can trip you when you least expect it, while spilled liquids can create a dangerous situation.

With this in mind, remove tripping hazards from your home and remain vigilant about identifying and removing things that increase your fall risk in the future.

5. Keep your living space light and bright

Most of us have had the experience of stubbing our toe while getting out of bed in the dark, and it turns out that a dark or dimly lit environment can create a fall hazard for seniors, as well. Because of this, it’s critical to keep all living spaces well-lit. This allows you to spot fall hazards before they trip you up.

For some simple fixes around your home, add a nightlight to bedrooms and other key areas, and add lamps to dark or dim corners of the home.

6. Eat a healthy, well-rounded diet

Diet affects virtually everything we do, and getting around is no different. To ensure that you’re as healthy and balanced as possible, be sure that your diet contains adequate levels of nutrients.

While this may seem unrelated to falling, people who eat healthy diets are stronger and more able to complete everyday activities.

7. Stay hydrated

Dehydration can cause dizziness and fatigue, both of which increase your fall risk. With this in mind, ensure that you’re drinking adequate water every day, and pay attention to your hydration levels and how you’re feeling.

If you notice you’re thirsty, drink up! It will help you stay healthier, and decrease your fall risk, as well.

8. Consider using an assistive device

If you’re recovering from an injury, struggling with balance, or simply not as strong as you once were, an assistive device like a walker or a cane can work wonders in helping you get around. In addition to helping you balance, these simple tools can also help you navigate uneven terrain safely.

9. Install railings around the home

In areas where falls are common, like stairs and bathrooms, it’s smart to install railings to help you keep or regain your balance. These railings are especially useful in unideal circumstances, such as when the bathroom floor is wet, or the exterior steps are coated in ice.

10. Keep ice and snow at bay

Winter creates an environment that’s ripe for falls. Between the ice and the snow of the colder months, there are dozens of dangers that face seniors during the chilliest days of the year. To keep these things at bay, ensure that you’re taking proactive steps, like sprinkling de-icer on dangerous patches and keeping all walks clear of snow.

11. Always tie your shoelaces

While it sounds simple, one common cause of household falls is untied shoes. It doesn’t matter if you’re just walking to the dresser or the mailbox – you should always tie your shoelaces. A simple way to prevent falls, this tiny step can help you stay safe and upright.

12. Arrange the home to allow a clear pathway for movement

You’re more likely to fall if you’re navigating around furniture and accessories in the home, so it’s in your best interest to remove these things to create clear, uncluttered pathways.

What to do if you Fall

Even if you take all of the above steps, it’s impossible to guarantee that you won’t ever fall. With that in mind, here are some steps you should take if you do happen to suffer a fall:

  • Get up properly

If you fall, get up the right way by lying on your side, bending your top leg, and propping yourself up on an elbow. From there, use your upper body to pull yourself to the closest sturdy object (a dining table or banister, for example) and use this to help pull yourself up. Stand slowly, turn and sit down, and take a moment to rest before you stand up again.

  • Call for help

If you fall and you cannot get up, call for help. If you can reach a phone, dial 9-1-1. If you cannot reach a phone, call for help verbally, or make noise to attract a passerby’s attention.

  • See a doctor

Any time you fall, you should see a doctor. Even if the fall seemed minor, complications like fractures can fly under the radar for quite some time, and it’s important to consult your healthcare professional to make sure everything is okay.

While falling is a scary prospect, these 12 preventative steps can help you avoid it as much as possible, to stay healthy, safe, and strong throughout your senior years. 

 

20 Signs Your Parent Might Need Home Care

Posted on by Martin

For most people, knowing when it’s time to think about hiring home care for an aging parent is a painful thought. In most cases, our parents age slowly, going from the joyful, attentive caregivers we’ve enjoyed all our lives to distracted, forgetful people we don’t fully understand.
Maybe you’ve noticed that your mom has begun to tell you the same stories over and over again, or that your dad frequently leaves the stove on. Maybe you have a parent who’s started to get lost, or who is having a hard time dressing, eating, or cooking on their own.

Whatever the case may be, watching your parents age can be difficult, and worrying about their care be gut-wrenching. Unfortunately, it’s critical to face these realities to ensure that your parent is getting the care he or she needs to age gracefully, with dignity, and with support, and recognizing the signs that indicate your parent needs in-home care is the first step.

20 Reliable Signs That Your Parent Needs In-Home Care

No matter how old your parent may be, or whether he or she has been ill up until this point, these 20 signs are a sure-fire indicator that the time to hire in-home care has arrived.

1. Your Parent Has Begun To Miss Meetings, Appointments, And Obligations

Forgetfulness is a dangerous sign of dementia and Alzheimer’s, and parents who have started to miss important social events may be exhibiting the early signs of memory loss. Even if your parent’s memory is still sharp as a tack, missing scheduled appointments can indicate embarrassment about a difficulty or inability to get dressed, or challenges driving, navigating public transit, or walking, all of which indicate a need for additional support.

2. Difficulty Standing on His or Her Own

If you’ve noticed that your parent is having a hard time standing up out of his or her favorite chair, it’s time to hire in-home help. While this may seem like a small symptom that can be attributed to arthritis or stiff joints, it’s important to remember that, without help, your parent could easily be stuck for hours or days if they can’t get up on their own.

3. Bruising or Wounds on Your Parent’s Body

When seniors start to have trouble walking, dressing, or cleaning on their own, it tends to show up as unexplained bruises or wounds on the person’s body. Evidence of falls, slips, or accidents in the home, these unexplained injuries can be alarming to family members.

Although your parent may play them off as nothing, it’s your job to know that any parent who is being injured in his or her own home needs some level of in-home care and assistance.

4. Poor Home or Personal Hygiene

Maybe you notice that the trash hasn’t been taken out in days or that your mom’s refrigerator is full of rotting, spoiled food. Perhaps you’ve begun to notice that your father isn’t showering or shaving anymore.

While symptoms like this may seem like simple forgetfulness, it’s important to remember that rotten food in the refrigerator may indicate that your parent isn’t eating and that poor personal hygiene can put your parent at risk of infections and other unpleasant symptoms.

5. Forgetfulness

Forgetfulness can be a symptom of Alzheimer’s. When a parent starts forgetting critical things, like whether or not they’ve taken vital medication or how to turn off the stove, the condition can quickly become dangerous.

6. Confusion

Parents who get lost, frustrated, or angry are displaying confusion. An early sign of Alzheimer’s and dementia, this symptom warrants home care and additional assistance.

7. Evidence of Bathroom Accidents

Soiled pants or underwear, messed bathrooms, and an unpleasant body odor are all signs that your parent is having difficulty using the bathroom on his or her own, and needs compassionate assistance to maintain their dignity and quality of life.

8. Decline in Housekeeping

If your mom has always kept a neat home, but now the sink is piled high with dishes, and the unopened mail is spilling throughout the entryway, she’s likely having trouble managing her housework, and could use additional assistance.

9. Signs of Financial Trouble

Financial trouble is one thing that frequently befalls seniors without their friends and family noticing. If your parent has begun to bounce checks or get many late payment notices, forgetfulness may be playing a part in making the finances harder to manage.

10. Seclusion

Seclusion is a dangerous thing for seniors. In addition to increasing a senior’s risk of mortality, isolation can have a negative impact on a senior’s health and contribute to the development of dementia and cognitive decline. If your elderly parent has begun to isolate him or herself, hiring in-home help can prevent the situation from worsening.

11. Weight Loss Or Gain

Extreme and sudden weight loss or gain can be a sign that your parent is having trouble feeding him or herself, forgetting whether they’ve eaten, or eating for emotional comfort.

12. Extreme Moodiness

Severe mood swings or moodiness can be a sign that your parent is suffering from the beginning stages of Alzheimer’s or depression. Hiring an in-home caregiver can ensure that your parent has someone around to monitor the symptoms, and sound the alarm if they get worse or change drastically.

13. Car Accidents

For seniors, losing their right to drive can be a devastating occurrence. Unfortunately, many seniors continue to drive past the point where it’s medically advisable, and they put themselves and others at risk as a result. If you notice dents or scratches in your parent’s care, he or she may need additional assistance to ensure their safety and well-being.

14. Poor Medication Management

According to MdMag, most older adults in the U.S. fill between 9-13 prescriptions on an annual basis. With this in mind, it’s not surprising that these medications can become difficult or impossible to manage as age and forgetfulness set in. Fortunately, an in-home caregiver can help seniors manage their medication correctly, and ensure that they’re not duplicating doses or taking the improper amount of any given medication.

15. Depression

It’s not uncommon for seniors to suffer from depression as they age, especially when their spouse has passed away, and they’re alone. In these cases, an in-home caregiver can help by providing companionship and support.

16. Wandering

If your parent has begun to wander out of the house and get lost, in-home help is critical, both for the senior’s safety and your peace of mind.

17. Boredom

In some cases, in-home assistance can help elderly parents who are just bored and in need of more consistent companionship. In addition to performing household duties, in-home caregivers can also play games with seniors, accompany them to social events and appointments, and help them learn new things.

18. Difficulty With Mobility

It’s not uncommon for seniors to experience difficulty with mobility as they age, and an in-home caregiver can make it easier for your parent to get around and maintain his or her freedom.

19. Dangerous Behavior

If your parent has begun to exhibit dangerous behavior or suicidal tendencies, hiring in-home help can give them the support they need to be happier and more fulfilled.

20. Poor Personal Care

Personal care is critical not only for your parent’s well-being but also for their outlook and sense of self-worth. With this in mind, hiring an in-home caregiver to help your parent uphold their personal care routine can be critical. 

In-Home Care: The First Step to the Rest of Your Parent’s Life

While the decision to hire in-home care for an aging parent can be difficult, taking the first step is typically the smartest way to ensure your parent ages gracefully, with all the care, support, and assistance he or she needs to be happy and healthy throughout.

12 Tips to Help Protect Seniors from Identity Theft

Posted on by Martin

Identity theft is one of the fastest-growing crimes in the U.S.

Right now, more than 15 million U.S. residents have their identities stolen each year, with losses exceeding a total of $50 billion annually.

While it’s true that identity theft can (And does) affect anyone, seniors are at increased risk. Today, senior identity theft is growing rapidly, and people ages 50 or older are frequently the target of scams and fraudulent activity.

While various factors make seniors especially vulnerable to identity theft, deceased spouses, dementia and cognitive decline, a failure to check credit reports regularly, and often substantial saving or checking account balance are some of the primary draws for identity thieves.

Luckily, there are many ways that friends and loved ones can help protect seniors from the burden of identity theft.

Read on to learn more.

Why are Seniors Vulnerable to Identity Theft? 

While many factors influence seniors’ vulnerability to identity theft, including the ones mentioned above, the issue is complex and multi-faceted. Even seniors who aren’t affected by dementia or cognitive decline are frequently the target of identity theft, but why?

On one hand, the answer may be generational. As a general rule, seniors grew up during a period when people were quick to trust one another, and credit card and banking scams were not as prevalent as they are today.

Alternately, seniors are often concerned about not seeming dependent or overly needy, so they may not ask for help or verification from a friend or family member when something seems fishy, or when they receive an odd phone call asking for personal information.

Finally, seniors may be at increased risk of identity theft because the human brain changes with age. According to a 2012 study conducted by psychologists at UCLA, senior citizens quite literally process risk differently than their younger companions. When presented with mildly risky or dangerous situations, the older people in the study displayed less activity in the portions of the brain responsible for responding to danger, which suggests that they may not recognize or respond to risk the same way as their younger counterparts. 

To help protect seniors from identity theft, it’s critical to understand the various factors that place them at increased risk.

12 Ways to Help Protect Seniors from Identity Theft

 

1. Find trustworthy caregivers

While it may sound shocking, some of the main culprits in senior identity theft are the senior’s caregivers. Because these people have access to the senior’s personal documentation, credit cards, and checking account numbers, it’s easy for an unsavory caregiver to create fake accounts in the senior’s name or wreak havoc on checking and savings account balances.

With this in mind, vet all caregivers thoroughly and consider conducting background searches and checking references. While this may seem paranoid, it’s the first (and arguably most critical) step in ensuring a senior’s identity remains safe and sound.

2. Help the senior be aware of common scams

It’s reasonable for a senior to get excited about a phone call or email stating they’ve won a million dollars and, if nobody bothers to tell them about common scams and frauds, it may not occur to the senior that these types of interactions aren’t legitimate. With this in mind, seek to be informed about common frauds and scams and pass the information along to the senior citizen.

The Financial Fraud Enforcement Task Force operates a website called StopFraud.gov, which offers a wealth of information on common scams and how you can protect yourself and others. Check it regularly and keep your senior informed of what you learn. Better yet, turn the senior him or herself onto the website and have them check it frequently.

3. Monitor a senior’s financial activity

One of the most efficient ways to keep a senior out of identity theft troubles is to monitor their financial activity carefully. Since many common scams come in the form of credit card or email scams, monitoring credit card and bank statements can be a useful way to catch fraudulent activity before it blows up.

4. Check in often

While it may seem nosy, checking in often can help keep seniors safe from identity theft. Don’t hesitate to ask your senior friend or relative if they’ve received any suspicious calls or emails lately. While some seniors may get frustrated by these questions (believing they couldn’t possibly be the victims of identity theft), it’s worth it to ask.

While it may cause a small tiff, the tough conversation is ultimately worth it if it protects the senior from financial or personal hardship. Soften the conversation by reminding the senior that identity scammers are excellent at what they do and that the scams may not even seem like scams.

5. Enroll the senior in identity theft protection

There are various credit monitoring services designed to monitor personal and financial information for any red flags. Plans are affordable and can be a crucial tool in the ongoing battle for keeping seniors out of the clutches of identity theft.

6. Shred unneeded personal documents

Old personal documents that contain sensitive information like the senior’s birth date, social security numbers or banking information should be shredded or burned. This prevents them from falling into the wrong hands (in many cities and states, it’s common for identity thieves to comb through trash on public streets in search of such documents) and causing havoc.

7. Verify the validity of any “Free” services gated with personal information

Seniors are often targeted by scammers offering free or highly discounted medical services in return for personal information. While these proposals may seem outstanding, they’re often fraudulent. If the senior in your life receives any such offer, check the company with the Better Business Bureau before proceeding.

8. Encourage the senior to check credit reports often

Since seniors are typically not applying for mortgages or other large loans, they may not check their credit reports as often as younger people. Unfortunately, this is how so much fraudulent activity goes unnoticed for so long.

To be on the safe side, encourage the senior to check his or her credit report at least once a year. This can help keep tabs on financial and personal information and ensure it’s not being used incorrectly.

9. Help the senior understand link scams

Many scammers masquerade as reputable companies and use fraudulent links to gain personal information. Help the senior understand how these scams work and how to stay safe: instead of supplying personal information via a questionable link, go directly to the company’s website and complete an application or sign-up process there.

10. Maintain open communication about phone scams

Many identity scams use callers pretending to be court representatives or medical establishments, claiming outstanding balances for past bills. Instead of giving personal information to these callers, help the senior understand the need to call the company directly instead, and resolve the issue there.

11. Consider hiring an attendant

In the grips of dementia or Alzheimer’s, many seniors begin to make risky financial decisions and become intensely vulnerable to scammers. If this is the case with your loved one, consider hiring a professional caregiver to keep the senior out of financial trouble and away from the clutches of scammers.

12. Get the senior a secure mailbox

With a traditional, street-side mailbox, it’s easy for anyone to steal a senior’s sensitive mail. To protect your loved one, opt for a secure mailbox option like a post office or locking box.

Senior Identity Theft Stops Here

Seniors are a vulnerable population when it comes to identity theft. Luckily, you can help your loved ones stay secure with these twelve helpful tips. In addition to protecting a senior’s personal and financial information, these steps also go a long way toward ensuring healthy, happy, secure golden years for the senior in your life.

 

 

 

 

 

10 Creative Ways to Pay for in-Home Care

Posted on by Martin

In-home care: while it’s one of the most helpful types of care available, it can also be a financial stressor. More than a few people have had the experience of waking suddenly in the middle of the night, panicked about how they’ll pay for their in-home care and what will happen if they can’t manage it.

For people who are injured, ill, or aging, and can’t manage all of the tasks of daily living on their own anymore, in-home care can be a lifesaver. In addition to taking the burden of caring for an aging loved one off friends and family members, in-home care also serves to enhance the quality of life and provide critical medical assistance in the place where a person is most comfortable – his or her home. 

If you’re starting to think about how you’ll pay for in-home care, or you’re already struggling to make ends meet, here are ten creative ideas to cover the cost. Read on.

First Things First – Is In-Home Care Expensive?

There’s no one-size-fits-all formula for calculating the cost of in-home care. Prices vary widely depending on where you live, what type of care you need, and the skill level of the person you’d like to hire. According to Caring.com, home health aides made an average of $16-$29 hourly in 2011, and home healthcare costs are only rising by an average of 1.15% annually.

Depending on your level of need and your financial circumstances, in-home care may be a simple thing to afford. On the other hand, though, it may be a financial stressor, and you may be looking for ways to make it work more easily for your family.  

10 Creative Ways to Cover the Cost of In-Home Care

Regardless of what your needs may be, these ten simple tips can help you cover the cost of in-home care and get the attention you deserve.

1. Get long-term care insurance

Long-term care insurance is insurance that is designed to cover the cost of things like long-term nursing, admittance to an assisted living facility, ongoing medication, and more. While not all long-term care policies cover in-home care, some do, and it’s an avenue that’s well worth exploring. 

The only negative factor about long-term care is that most policies have a disqualifying age, after which you cannot purchase the insurance. Because of this, you must plan to purchase long-term care insurance while you’re still healthy. This will allow you to take advantage of the policy when you eventually need it to cover in-home care. 

2. Use annuities to your advantage

Annuities are one thing that few people think of to pay for in-home care, but they can be instrumental in helping make the cost more manageable. A hybrid between a personal investment account and an ongoing insurance plan, annuities represent money that a senior has invested and earns interest for. After the money has matured for a given period, the senior can begin making withdrawals.

In addition to helping seniors grow their money, annuities are designed to help cover the costs of living as a senior ages, since they pay a consistent income stream for a set number of years, or until the senior dies. 

Annuities sums aren’t viewed as assets when a senior applies for Medicaid, and the income earned from them is often enough to cover the cost of in-home care and more.

3. Apply for Medicaid and use its benefits to pay for in-home care

Medicaid is a program designed to help low-income seniors cover their health needs. While Medicaid coverage laws vary depending on the state you live in, all Medicaid plans are designed to cover in-home care for at least a short period. 

In some cases, Medicaid may even cover long-term in-home care, if the person utilizing it would otherwise be in a nursing home. 

4. Consider applying for a reverse mortgage

While few people know this, reverse mortgages were developed to help seniors stay at home for as long as possible. Here’s how a reverse mortgage works: once a senior has paid a significant amount of equity into his or her home, he or she can start taking some of that equity out, in the form of lump-sum or ongoing payments. 

While reverse mortgages can be ideal for some seniors, they do have parameters that can rule some people out. Here’s what they require:

  • The senior must be 62 or older
  • The senior must own his or her home, either free-and-clear or with little money left on the loan
  • The bank that issues the reverse mortgage appraises the home and determines payment values based on a loved one’s age and payout requirements

5. Look into using veteran’s benefits

If you were an armed forces members, you might be able to use military benefits to cover the cost of your in-home care. The only downside of this approach is that the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is notoriously difficult to navigate, and you may find yourself working very hard to get the benefits you’re owed. While you’ll have to contact a representative to understand your individual eligibility, here are the policyholder parameters for veteran’s benefits:

  • You must have served at least 90 days of active duty
  • One of those days must have been during wartime
  • You must have been honorably discharged

If you meet these requirements, you may be eligible to receive disability payments that can help you cover the cost of your in-home care.

6. Look over your life insurance policy

If you have life insurance, you may find that it can be used to cover your in-home care. If you don’t have dependents that will rely on the life insurance, consider dipping into your policy and using “accelerated” benefits to cover the cost of your in-home care. 

Accelerated benefits are features of certain life insurance policies that allow the policy holder to take advantage of the insurance benefits within their policy before death. Ideal for paying for in-home care, these benefits are typically reserved only for those who need ongoing in-home care or have been disabled by chronic conditions. 

If you have a life insurance policy and no dependents relying on it, consider this option. As a rule, insurance policies will allow holders to pull out between 25%-100% of their death benefit as an accelerated benefit.

7. See if Medicare is right for you

While it’s tough to get Medicare coverage to provide for your in-home care, it is possible, and it’s worth evaluating. Medicare is issued when a person leaves a hospital or long-term-care facility. In some cases, those benefits can extend to covering the cost of in-home care as a form of rehabilitative therapy. 

Keep in mind, though, that these benefits can be limited and may not be right for everyone.

8. Pool resources within the family to cover the cost of in-home care

If none of the above options appeal to you, you can consider pooling resources within your family. Things like collective sibling agreements and personal savings can go a long way toward covering the cost of in-home care and are some of the most common options people take when considering how to offset the expense.  

9. Develop an in-home care savings fund

Many people have savings funds for medical emergencies, vacations, and more, so why not establish one to cover the cost of in-home care. While this takes some planning and dedication, it can be a straightforward and stress-free way to cover the cost of in-home care down the line.

10. Sell off assets

For some seniors who don’t have dependents or people relying on inheriting assets, selling assets can be a functional way to get the extra funds required to cover the cost of in-home care. Of course, this approach depends entirely on the senior’s unique circumstances, and won’t be right for everyone. 

The Case for In-Home Care

For seniors who can no longer care for themselves alone, in-home care can be a wonderful way to enhance quality of life and ensure safety and happiness for years to come. It can be expensive, though, and these ten tips can help offset the cost and make it easier for you and your family members to cover the expenses associated with in-home care. 

Debunking 20 Myths About Aging Everyone Believes

Posted on by Martin

“Seniors are unable to try new things.” “As you age, your memory goes out the door.” “All seniors are lonely and depressed.”

We’ve all heard them: aging myths. While they’re rampant in our culture, researchers have been waging a quiet war to take them down and provide people with the truth about aging. In light of that, here is the truth about 20 aging myths you might believe:

Myth #1: Older People Feel Old

According to a 2009 study conducted by the Pew Research Survey, the more people age “the younger they feel, relatively.” In fact, a full 60% of seniors (Ages 65 and older) state that they feel younger than their biological age. While society would tell us that seniors feel their age acutely, many seniors use their retirement as a time to explore new exercises – like Tai Chi or yoga – to pick up new hobbies, and to spend their time volunteering for causes they love. There you have it – age really is nothing but a number.

Myth #2: Seniors’ Brains Stop Working

We’ve all heard about “senior moments” and while it’s true that memory does decline with age and some seniors do experience extreme forms of cognitive impairment like Alzheimer’s, it’s unfair and untrue to say that all seniors become forgetful.

According to a 2011 article published in Monitor on Psychology, the effects of aging on the brain have “likely been overstated by anecdotal evidence.” In fact, some seniors actually experience an increase in math abilities as they age.

Myth #3: Seniors Can’t Drive Any Longer

According to the aforementioned Pew study, 76% of people believe that most seniors are unable to drive a car. The truth is, however, that many seniors continue to drive well into their golden years and that only one in seven seniors report not being able to drive.

Myth #4: Seniors are Unable to Break Bad Habits

While many people view seniors as being stuck in their ways and immovable, the fact is that many seniors break bad habits, such as smoking or poor dietary habits, in their older years. These changes can help contribute to a more positive lifestyle on a daily basis.

Myth #5: Seniors are Unhappy

There’s a common perception that seniors are always unhappy. In fact, multiple studies have shown that happiness generally begins to increase after age 50. A study published in the Journal of Economic Behavior recently stated that people are generally the happiest they’ve ever been when they reach retirement age.

While senior depression and isolation are certainly problems that some older people contend with, it’s untrue that all seniors are unhappy. Many of them are simply enjoying their families and their newfound free time!

Myth #6: Seniors are Frail and Weak

Truth: getting older puts you at risk of osteoporosis. Myth: All seniors are weak and breakable. While some seniors do struggle with bone density issues or chronic diseases, it’s easy to stay healthy and fit through a regimen of good eating habits, regular weight-bearing exercise, plenty of supplements, and a generally healthy lifestyle. With the help of these things, many seniors never develop osteoporosis.

Myth #7: Seniors Have no Family Interaction

After the kids are all grown up and gone, many seniors actually feel higher levels of happiness than many people expect. Between decreased financial burdens and increased amounts of free time, many seniors have found that the so-called “empty nest years” actually free up a great deal of space for enjoyment. Additionally, seniors often have adult children, grandchildren, and extended families to enjoy in their golden years.

Myth #8: Seniors Stop Learning

What a sad world it would be if all seniors stopped learning new things the moment they hit 65. Fortunately, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Many seniors are incredibly invested in learning new hobbies, meeting new people, and taking up new pastimes. What’s more, a senior’s brain is well-equipped for every single one of these pursuits.

According to the tenants of neuroplasticity, the human brain is always growing and changing and seniors are just as capable as anyone else of building new neural pathways and absorbing new information.

Myth #9: Seniors Isolate Themselves

While many housebound seniors do experience dangerous levels of depression and senior isolation, this is commonly regarded as the exception rather than the rule. The truth is that, through in-home care programs and assisted living facilities, seniors have access to a great deal of social programs, adult-learning classes, and fun recreational pastimes. Many seniors take great enjoyment from these things and spend their golden years leading healthy, active social lives.

Myth #10: Old Age Destroys Seniors’ Sex Lives

While some seniors suffer from decreasing libido and impotence, these are often related to preventable conditions such as diabetes, depression, and high blood pressure. Because of this, many seniors who take good care of their bodies via exercise and a healthy diet enjoy healthy sex lives well into their 70s. In fact, the New Jersey Institute for Successful Aging reports that 60% of all seniors still enjoy regular intimate and sexual contact.

Myth #11: Genetics are Wholly Responsible for the Aging Process

While genetic factors may influence things like your likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s or diabetes, the majority of aging comes down to how an individual lives his or her life. People with unhealthy lifestyles are more likely to suffer from chronic diseases than their healthy counterparts and things like exposure to toxins, diet, and exercise all play a role in the aging process.

Myth #12: Seniors Can’t Be Creative

According to a study conducted by George Washington University, seniors who engaged in creative pursuits such as singing took less prescription medication, suffered fewer falls, and were in better physical and mental health than their non-creative peers. Creative pursuits like painting, acting, or crafting can also help seniors feel less lonely and more positive. This just goes to show that not only can seniors be creative, but it’s also very good for them to do so.

Myth #13: Seniors are Cranky

This is commonly known as the “Grumpy Old People Stereotype” and it’s just as damaging as it is untrue. Studies have shown that seniors actually become more trusting and good-natured as they age rather than it being the other way around. Seniors who are cranky are often suffering from cognitive decline, dementia, depression, or isolation – all of which can be alleviated or lessened through regular contact with friends and loved ones and proper care.

Myth #14: Seniors are Filled with Regrets

Depending upon how you look at it, old age is a time to look back and lament what you haven’t done or it’s a time to be thankful for what you have done. Studies show that the majority of seniors choose the latter option. 45% of seniors ages 75 and older believe in the power of “counting their blessings”, which is a powerful factor in happiness, satisfaction, and gratitude that can help boost a senior’s overall outlook.

Myth #15: Seniors Are Impoverished

While it’s true that many seniors are struggling with their finances, the aforementioned Pew survey states that a full two-thirds of seniors are actually more financially secure than they were at younger ages.

Myth #16: Nobody Respects Seniors

When surveyed, 60% of seniors state that they feel more respected and less stressed than they did when they were younger. Much of this is likely due to changing societal norms and an increased focus on high-quality senior care and activity programs throughout the country.

Myth #17: The Average Lifespan is Decreasing

Currently, more than 39 million U.S. citizens are age 65 or older. This is 13% of the U.S. population – a 4% increase from the year 1900. What’s more, seniors today are actually living longer than they ever have before. This is due in large part to advances in medicine and public health programs as well as nutrition and sanitation.

Myth #18: Seniors Can’t Hold a Job

Even after retirement age has come and gone, many seniors choose to continue working for the social and emotional benefits it offers. These seniors tend to be just as productive as their younger counterparts and are often more reliable and dedicated than younger generations.

Myth #19: All Seniors Fear Death

While most seniors are aware of the inevitability of death – some more than others – very few seniors are obsessed with the idea of death. Instead, seniors often view their golden years as an opportunity to spend time with family and friends and do the things they enjoy! More often than not, the perception that seniors are obsessed with death is actually a projection by younger people onto their grandparents and senior counterparts.

Myth #20: Older Adults Are Lazy

Most seniors’ days are anything but lazy and dull. According to the aforementioned Pew survey, about one in four older adults reports engaging in vigorous exercise on a daily basis, 90% talk to family, 80% read a book, two-thirds drive a car somewhere, 40% go shopping, and just shy of half of seniors spend time in a hobby every day. Contrary to popular belief, most seniors actually enjoy busy days full of things they love.

Conclusion

While it’s natural to have questions about the aging process, it’s clear that these 20 common aging myths can now be considered debunked. While many people believe seniors are lonely, sedentary, cranky, and depressed, most people would be shocked to know that exactly the opposite is often true: seniors are often outgoing, vivacious, engaged, and happier than ever before!

Debunking 15 Crazy Home Care Myths and Misconceptions

Posted on by Martin

How much do you know about in-home care?

While the popularity of in-home care continues to grow, many people aren’t sure exactly what home care entails or how to secure in-home services. Fortunately, these problems are easy to fix! By debunking the most common home care myths and misconceptions, you and your loved ones can ensure that you’re getting the most that home care has to offer.

15 Home Care Myths Most People Believe

Home care: it’s important, life-changing, and very, very misunderstood. These 15 myths are the most common that surround the home care industry. Here’s what you need to know about them:

1) Home care is only for very sick people

Home care myth #1While home care can certainly be helpful for terminally ill people, not all home care recipients are very ill. In fact, there are two very distinct types of home care services: medical and non-medical care. Medical care is often utilized by people who are recovering from an illness or injury or for people who need help coping with chronic conditions.

Non-medical care, on the other hand, offers help with activities of daily living (ADLs) like eating, bathing, personal care, and transportation. Non-medical home care aides may help their clients shop, prepare meals, clean, or complete housework. In some cases, non-medical home care simply provides companionship, which can be helpful in avoiding depressive symptoms and elevating an individual’s mood.

2) Home care is very expensive

myth-02For families that have never utilized home care, the thought can be intimidating. Many people believe that hiring an in-home care aide will be far too expensive, but fortunately they’re wrong! According to a 2010 survey conducted by the Home Instead Senior Care Network, the average family overestimates the cost of hiring a non-medical home care aide by about $6 an hour.

This means that hiring in-home care is actually far more affordable than most people believe. In stark contrast, Genworth’s Cost of Care Survey from 2011 states that the price of a private room in a nursing facility has jumped about 3.4% – to a total of more than $77,745 annually! With those numbers in mind, it’s clear that hiring in-home care may actually be more affordable than a nursing home.

3) Caregivers aren’t trustworthy

Home Care Myth #03Any reputable in-home care service provider will do its absolute best to match seniors to caregivers who display similar interests and personalities. Additionally, most caregivers are required to pass measures like background and competency tests before interacting with clients. This helps ensure that the senior is matched with a quality caregiver that can meet the senior’s needs while also being trustworthy and reliable.

4) Home care is for people who lack independence

Home Care Myth #04Hiring an in-home care aide doesn’t mean sacrificing your independence! In fact, in many cases, the introduction of an in-home care aide can actually help an individual maintain independence. By handling things that may be difficult, like cooking and cleaning, an in-home care aide can help make daily life easier and support the senior’s efforts to live independently for as long as possible.

Additionally, in-home caregivers can help clients maintain independence by preventing common nonfatal injuries like falls and fractures, which the CDC reports are the leading cause of injury death among those 65 and older.

5) In-home care is basically adult babysitting

Home Care Myth #05Think again! While many seniors worry that hiring an in-home caregiver means having a watchful and disproving attendant around at all times, this couldn’t be further from the truth. In many cases, seniors form strong bonds with their in-home caregivers, which creates an environment of fun and closeness every time the caregiver visits.

6) Home care isn’t helpful for people with low or moderate needs

Home Care Myth #06If you only need help conducting your shopping, but you can manage your housework and personal care just fine, don’t write off home care just yet. Home care is a widely varied market and there are professionals available to help you, regardless of what your needs may be. Whether you need an hour or 40 hours of help each week, you can find a caregiver that will provide this for you.

7) I don’t need home care – my family is already helping

Home Care Myth #07As you age and your needs become more pronounced, the burden on friends and family can quickly become overwhelming. Hiring an in-home caregiver can allow your family and friends to participate in your care without stretching themselves too thin. The introduction of an in-home care aide ensures quality care, relief for family and friends, and a balanced care plan for everyone involved.

8) Home care is only for seniors

Home Care Myth #08Just like home care isn’t only for people with limiting illnesses or disabilities, it’s not only for seniors. Home care is often utilized by parents with newborns or people recovering from surgical procedures. Home health care can be individualized to fit your unique needs, so you’ll always have access to a provider that can give you exactly what you need for your unique situation.

9) Home care is dangerous

Home Care Myth #09While we certainly don’t recommend undergoing surgery at home, home care aides are trained professionals. If you require in-home medical care, you’ll be matched with a medical caregiver who can help administer a plan of care that is safe and medically sound.

For individuals who need high levels of in-home care, it’s often possible to secure the assistance of an in-home RN or other highly trained medical personnel. This ensures that your in-home care is just as safe as it would be in a hospital.

10) Seniors who need 24/7 care aren’t qualified for home care

Home Care Myth #10Again, home care is highly individualized. This means that clients who need high levels of home care can find providers to offer it while those who need lower levels of home care will be matched accordingly. Home care agencies often put together 24/7 care teams and can work with you to ensure that you get exactly the services you need.

11) Home care doesn’t accommodate long-term needs

Home Care Myth #11For seniors or other individuals with long-term care needs, home care can be a fantastic option. By matching the individual in need with a qualified individual or team of in-home caregivers, it’s easy for in-home care to accommodate long-term care needs.

12) The client has no say over who the in-home caregiver is

Home Care Myth #12Just like all things, it’s possible that finding an ideal in-home caregiver may take some experimentation, but you as the client always have the final say. If you find that a caregiver and you don’t get along well, that you don’t trust or feel comfortable with the caregiver, or that the caregiver isn’t meeting your needs, you always have the option to replace the caregiver with one who works better. This ensures that you always find a great in-home care match and that you’re satisfied with your in-home services.

13) An in-home caregiver will replace the role of my friends and family

Home Care Myth #13While an in-home caregiver can certainly provide a much-needed break for friends and family, it’s untrue that the presence of in-home care will replace the importance of friends and family. An in-home caregiver can supplement the care your friends and family provide, while at the same time deferring to the care preferences that you and your family agree upon.

14) An in-home caregiver will take over my loved one’s care plan

Home Care Myth #14In-home caregivers are ideal for providing an extra set of hands and some medical expertise. Aside from that, however, they don’t dominate the in-home care situation. Depending upon the need of the client, an in-home caregiver will work with the client and his or her family to develop a care plan that meets the client’s needs while also working closely with the family and the client to ensure that the family feels involved to their desired level. This helps ensure an active role in the care of a loved one and prevents an in-home caregiver from providing more services than are needed or wanted.

15) In-home caregivers don’t care about their clients

Home Care Myth #15While it’s important to hire a reputable in-home caregiver from a reputable home care agency, most caregivers enter the business specifically because they care about clients and want to do everything in their power to serve them.

When the match between a caregiver and a client is good, caregivers and clients often become friends. Most caregivers care deeply about their clients and will do everything in their power to help their clients feel happy, healthy, and independent.

The Case for in-Home Care

As long as people need personalized, individualized services, the popularity of in-home care will continue to grow. In order for this to happen, however, it’s important that we dispel the most common myths that surround home care. From its target population to its use for younger individuals, it’s important to know exactly what home care is and isn’t in order to use in-home care services as effectively as possible.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Being a PCA

Posted on by Martin

PCAs, or Personal Care Assistants, play a valuable role in the lives and well-being of aging or ill individuals. By accompanying these people through daily tasks in their home, the PCA is able to help the aging or ill individual maintain dignity and independence for longer than would have otherwise been possible. Being a PCA is a challenging career and there are many unique situations that place special demands on the personality, character, and work abilities of the PCA.

Although being a PCA is rewarding, it is also demanding and there are several things PCAs need to know in order to succeed in the field. Here are the top dos and don’ts for PCAs all across the country.

Things You Should Do as a PCA

In addition to being competent in certain aspects of the health care field, being a PCA also requires a certain type of personality and demeanor. Here are the top “dos” for people who want to be or already are PCAs:

  • Treat Patients with Respect

As a PCA, you will likely work with patients from all walks of life and backgrounds. These patients will be struggling with a variety of mental, emotional, and physical issues, from Alzheimer’s to severe disability. In order to be the best PCA possible, it is important to remember that every person who enters and exits your care deserves respect. This is especially important when you find yourself in the midst of a challenging situation, which will certainly happen if you work in the field long enough. While some days are harder than others, it is important to always remain positive and respectful with your clients.

  • Encourage the Patient’s Independence

Personal care assistants are meant to assist people with tasks that may have become difficult or impossible for them. In many cases, however, a PCA’s clients are far from being incapacitated and can still do many things for themselves. In these cases, it is important for the PCA to allow the client as much independence as the client can safely manage.

For example, if the client has trouble dressing him or herself but can still cook safely and efficiently, it is appropriate for the PCA to provide a helping hand with getting ready in the morning but to step back while the client makes breakfast. Doing this allows the client to maintain dignity and independence while also laying the foundation for a good relationship between the PCA and the client.

  • Be a Support System

Many families hire PCAs because a loved one’s needs have exceeded what the family can reasonably offer. This often means that the PCA will spend more time with the individual than virtually anybody else. If the PCA is doing his or her job correctly (by being compassionate, empathetic, reliable, and professional) it is only natural that, over time, the client will come to view the PCA as a trusted confidant.

This is one of the PCA’s most important job descriptions. In order to further your relationships with your clients, it is hugely important to be a trustworthy, sensitive sounding board when the client needs someone to talk to. This does not mean that you have to play the role of a therapist or counselor by offering advice or feedback, only that should strive to be a support system for the client. To do this better, practice active listening and exercise plenty of empathy. People who hire PCAs will appreciate it if their caregiver can also be a friend.

  • Remain Honest

While there are things that should certainly stay between you and your client (very personal stories, for example, or intimate struggles that are inappropriate for the outside world) it is important that you don’t hide things that need to be discussed.

For example, if you notice that one of your clients has been displaying odd behavior that could easily place the client or someone else at risk, it would be wise to reach out to the person’s family or a superior in the health care field. These situations can quickly become dangerous and it is your duty as a PCA to sound the alarm if you see behavior that is out of character, dangerous, or abnormal for an individual client.

  • Be Patient

Being a PCA will be trying at times and it is your duty to be patient: both with your clients and yourself. Patience will help you navigate difficult days, see through frustrating situations, and provide the best possible care for your clients, despite the challenges you both face.

  • Strive to Continue Training

While there is no required degree or certification program for being a PCA, it is important to continue your training in order to provide the best possible care. Attend conferences and classes that are relevant to your industry and seek to train under more experienced nurses or PCAs. In addition to exposing you to a variety of different health care procedures and protocols, these continued training sessions will help you hone skills and be better equipped to care for your clients.

The Don’ts of Being a PCA

Just like there are many things you should do as a PCA, there are also many things you should not do. These include the following:

  • Act Unprofessionally

While being a PCA is a very intimate career, it is also one that requires a high level of professionalism. You’ll be working in people’s homes, helping them with sensitive daily activities like bathing and using the bathroom, and interacting intimately in their daily lives. Being a PCA requires considerable amounts of warmth, empathy, and patience, but it also requires professionalism. This means arriving on time, being reliable about schedules, dressing appropriately, keeping conversation appropriate (don’t overshare about your own life or struggles), and setting boundaries. Without professionalism, it is impossible to have a good client/PCA relationship.

  • Get Angry

As a PCA, there will be situations that are trying, especially if you work with clients who have advanced dementia. While caring for these clients can be difficult at times, it is hugely important that PCAs are able to maintain their patience and never lose their tempers.

In addition to being unfair to the client, outbursts like these damage your relationship with the client and may well put your job at risk. Instead, practice relaxation techniques when you can’t take a break on the job and give yourself plenty of off-the-job activities like exercising or hobbies to help you de-stress and maintain your center.

  • Break Client Confidentiality

One of the most important things a PCA does is maintain client confidentiality at all times. This means that you should safeguard all information pertaining to clients, their families, and their employees. This includes specific health conditions, names, ages, and occupations of clients, as well as any specific information about their families.

Being a PCA is an intimate career and clients and families trust you with very sensitive information. Breaking client confidentiality is grounds not only for being fired but also for betraying the trust of your clients and placing them at risk for embarrassment or stress within their communities.

  • Avoid Self-Care

We’ve all heard the saying “you can’t give water when the well is dry.” To put this another way, you can’t care for other people when you’re not caring for yourself. In order to be a great PCA, it’s important to take fantastic care of yourself outside of your daily working environment. This means ensuring that you’re eating healthy, well-balanced meals, that you’re getting enough sleep, that you’re exercising, that you’re spending time with your friends and family, and that you’re allowing yourself to take occasional days off.

Being a PCA comes with many stressors: low pay, difficult work environments, lack of personal time, close contact with illness and death, etc., and it is important for PCAs to understand that, in order to care adequately for their clients, they must first care adequately for themselves.

Conclusion

PCAs are arguably some of the most important individuals in the entire health care industry, and without them it would be difficult for ill or aging individuals to maintain dignity and independence. Fortunately, PCAs are willing to provide selfless service to their clients and their families. By following these simple dos and don’ts, PCAs can be better at their careers and enjoy each day on the job more.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Early Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease: What You Need to Know

Posted on by Martin

Alzheimer’s is a disease that affects hundreds of thousands of families every year. According to recent estimations, 5.3 million Americans are currently living with the disease, 5.1 million of whom are aged 65 or older.

Because Alzheimer’s is so common, it benefits family members to be aware of the early signs of Alzheimer’s disease. Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, early detection can lead to better care and treatment as the disease progresses.

1) Memory Loss

Memory loss is one of the most common and most easily recognized symptoms of Alzheimer’s. Most people in the early stages of the disease will begin to forget information they have recently learned and may begin to forget important dates, such as birthdays, anniversaries or holidays.

Affected people may also forget important life events and may not remember, for example, that their daughter recently had a baby. Some affected people may ask the same question time and time again or tell the same story in a loop-like fashion. As the memory loss progresses, many individuals begin to use memory devices like notes, to-do lists or electronic reminders in an attempt to cope with their symptoms.

2) Confusion Regarding Time and Place

If you notice that a loved one has begun to confuse times or locations and has exhibited behavior like switching meals (dinner for breakfast, etc.), it may be time to call a doctor. Many patients in the early stages of Alzheimer’s have difficulty with the concept of time and will also struggle to understand that something will happen in the future but is not happening now. The confusion of time often goes hand-in-hand with a confusion regarding locations and people exhibiting these symptoms often forget where they are or how they have gotten there.

3) Difficulty With Familiar Tasks

If you notice that a loved one is having a hard time remembering how to do basic tasks like watering plants or driving to an old friend’s house, pay some extra attention. People suffering from the early stages of Alzheimer’s often experience difficulty with familiar tasks and may slowly lose their ability to execute simple chores without help.

4) Difficulty With Problem Solving

For many people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, problem solving can quickly become an issue. Many individuals find it difficult to manage a budget, follow directions, read a recipe or keep track of mail. Additionally, these people may have a difficult time navigating daily frustrations like lost items or scheduling conflicts. Often, difficulty concentrating and frustration accompany these symptoms.

5) Difficulty Interpreting Pictures

If you notice that your loved on is having a tough time understanding photographs or judging distances, it is likely that this is an early indication of Alzheimer’s. Often, people who are beginning to exhibit symptoms of the disease will have difficulty interpreting color and contrast and may be unable to drive due to dangerous and disorienting issues with depth perception.

6) Trouble Speaking

Does your loved one have new or worsening speech problems? If you notice that somebody you know has begun stopping mid-sentence, stumbling over words, confusing phrases or repeating themselves often, it’s time for a medical evaluation.

One of the most surprising symptoms of Alzheimer’s is that people often begin to forget simple phrases. For example, these people may call an oven a “cooking box.” Problems with speech, vocabulary and forming sentences are common symptoms of this troubling disease and deserve immediate attention.

7) Misplacing Things

If your loved one begins to misplace things around the house and cannot remember where they’ve been in order to retrace their steps and find the lost items, it’s time to take notice. Confusion and lack of short-term memory are both early signs of the disease and can quickly transition into full-blown dementia. Often, these symptoms are accompanied by anger and those afflicted may accuse loved ones of stealing, playing trick on them or hiding things.

8) Notable Changes in Mood

Alzheimer’s symptoms often cause people to become moody, depressed, paranoid, fearful, anxious or angry. People in the early stages of the disease often get agitated easily and may respond to the confusion, discomfort and distress they often feel by sobbing, becoming angry or lashing out.

In addition to getting these individuals medical help, family and friends need to know that this behavior, while it can be emotionally devastating, is not personal. Alzheimer’s is a complicated disease and it often causes people to change dramatically in a short period of time. Trust that the best thing you as a friend or family member can do is get the affected person medical assistance and provide support and love throughout the treatment process.

9) Decreased Social Activity

If you notice that your loved one has recently withdrawn and has stopped seeing old friends or participating in volunteer work, family events or community engagements, it may be time for a medical check-up. Alzheimer’s symptoms, specifically confusion and the disorientation, can cause people to become depressed and withdraw from friends and family in an attempt to hide their symptoms from friends and loved ones. Often these people will try to downplay their withdrawal and it is up to friends and family members to investigate further. Although they may insist against it, individuals that are decreasing their social activity are at a heightened risk of depressive symptoms and need help and support immediately.

10) Poor Judgment or a Lack of Risk Assessment

People in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease may exhibit poor judgment with money, safety or personal belongings. For example, affected individuals may make large infomercial purchases or go outside in frigid weather without a coat. They may also leave stoves on, leave candles burning when nobody is home, leave a car running in the driveway or abandon personal hygiene. These are all alarming symptoms that require family members to take notice.

What to Do When a Loved One Has Alzheimer’s
In the early stages of the disease, individuals tend to be very independent and many affected people still drive, maintain social lives, conduct volunteer work and keep in touch with family. During this stage, the most important role loved ones can play during this time is to be a force of support and friendship while also assisting in planning for future care.

As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, people often undergo noticeable changes in their ability to speak, function independently, drive and eat. Typically, these changes occur slowly and it is not uncommon for affected individuals to maintain some level of independence for years. During this time, the best thing that friends and family members can do is act as an advocate for the affected person and helping him or her do routine things, such as making appointments, remembering important dates or events, paying monthly bills, taking medications on time, dressing, and cleaning the house. Although these tasks may seem small and inconsequential, they will be great help to the affected person.

As the disease progresses, friends and family members often feel as if there is nothing they can do and that is when love and support is most needed. In addition to loving the person affected by the disease, friends and family members should also reach out to their community for support and assistance. Although Alzheimer’s is a difficult disease, it is much easier for patients and their families to cope when they are surrounded by ample love and support.

Caring for People Suffering from Dementia

Posted on by Martin

Dementia is a mental disorder in which a person gradually suffers from loss of mental function as a result of certain brain diseases. Almost 50 million people suffer from dementia from all over the world while health organizations claim that the number will triple by 2050. The most common type of dementia in the world is Alzheimer. In United States, more than 60% of people (More than 5 and a half million) become victim of dementia because of Alzheimer. Other most common types of dementia are vascular dementia and lewy body dementia.

In all cases and types, the end result is often similar like loss of memory, judgment and loss of reasoning. It also causes anxiety, anger, behavioral changes, sadness and loss of muscle and weight. As loss of memory and resulting aggression is a common symptom, taking care of people suffering with dementia is often a very challenging task.

Even though, a small proportion of young people also suffers from dementia but most of the people get affected while growing old. In fact, the number of people suffering from dementia doubles with every 5 years of age bracket.

Understanding Dementia

To provide better care for dementia patients, it is necessary to understand the disease which helps counter gradual changes in the behavior of patients. Even when there is no present cure of dementia conditions like Alzheimer, there are reported cases in which good care and help from families significantly delayed the more severe conditions of dementia.

Once dementia is diagnosed, it follows a downward trajectory that usually consists of three steps.

  • Mild Dementia

    In the initial stage, which is also known as mild dementia, people begin to show difficulty in learning new things, remembering names and often fails to perform more complex tasks like operating a smart phone or driving. They also begin experiencing sadness, stress, anxiety and loss of interest in healthy activities and entertainment.

 

  • Moderate Dementia

    The second stage is moderate dementia in which senses are affected. The affected person suffers from loss of physical function, loss of judgment and more severe memory loss. At this stage, person also loss interest in proper diet, begins to wander and often uses inappropriate language and sentences that does not make any sense. At this time, challenges for care givers begin as they need to invest more time and energy.

 

  • Severe Dementia

    In the third and last stage, person suffers from complete memory loss, difficulty in eating with no control over bowl and bladder. The mobility also becomes limited. At this stage, round-the-clock care is required that is why many people seek professional care givers to help them cope with the growing needs of patients. At this time, most patients also stop recognizing family members making it easier to introduce professional caregivers.

 

Caring for Dementia Patients

When taking care of people suffering with mild dementia is easy, the real challenge starts with moderate to severe dementia stages. At this time, care givers may have to deal with aggressive and in some cases, violent behavior of patients which is result of growing confusion, fear, sadness and anxiety.

Learning Basics of Care Giving 

Listed are some basics of taking care of dementia patients.

No Aggression: First thing that care givers need to learn and understand is that whatever the dementia patients do, they are not doing it on purpose. Reacting with anger or aggression can only result in more violent behavior of patients in future.

No Argument: There is no point in explaining things to patients especially in the last stage. In simple words, no one can reason with dementia patients and can make them understand as they have lost their ability of learning and judgment. In fact, trying to reason with patients can result in adding confusion and triggering aggression.

Dos and Don’ts while Dealing with Aggressive Behavior

In many cases, a simple refusal of doing a routine task grows into violent speech or actions. While dealing with such situations, you need to understand that the violence committed by the patient is not on purpose.

Don’t: As aggression by patients often caused by fear, responding in harsh way can only worsen their condition. Don’t force the issue that is discomforting the patient or engage into an argument. Until you have no other option left, use of force can make the situation worse.

Dos: Instead, make sure to look for the cause of fear and try to provide them with the comfort zone that usually keeps them calm. Communicate in a reassuring but calm manner diverting their focus to something else.

Dos and Don’ts while Dealing with Confused Questions

Dementia patients often get confused about the time and place. They often want to be in a place or time when they were in more control or felt safest in their life.

Don’t: Long answers, reasons and explanations are not going to help. Instead, they will add to confusion and more questions. In some cases, lengthy reasons and arguments trigger violent behavior in patients.

Dos: Provide simple answers in reassuring and helping tone. Use photos and other reminders in the house. If the questions are insisting, it is better to redirect their attention to something else instead of trying to answer the questions again and again.

Dos and Don’ts while Dealing with Poor Judgment

Family members may have to face accusations from patients or actions that are result of cognitive problems and thinking errors. Alzheimer can cause people to have untrue beliefs, delusions and poor judgment.

Don’t: No matter how ugly it looks, never question the accusation or patient’s ability to handle particular situation. Letting him believe that he is in control can help otherwise the confusion can result in aggression or anger.

Dos: Help patients in keeping their stuff organized. Even when it looks difficult, accept the accusation and let him/her believe she is right and in control.

Tips that Can Help

Few simple tasks and small adjustments to your daily life can make life much easier of the care giver. Some helpful tips are listed below.

  • Graded Assistance to Encourage independence. There are reported cases in which dementia patients maintained functional independence for a long period of time when independence is encouraged. The technique “Graded Assistance” is used to help patients accomplish their work without providing extensive help. Instead, verbal instructions, physical demonstrations and other means are used keeping least amount of physical assistance.
  • Make Your Daily Routine more Smooth. Make things simpler for dementia patients by maintaining simple to follow routine in your home. Simple daily routine can help dementia patients to adapt quickly providing them independence to work alone.
  • Simple and Direct Communication. Use of simple sentences, reassuring tone and loving gestures can make things simpler for you and patients.
  • Limit Distractions. Make sure the patient is not distracted while eating or doing routine work. Provide calm and quiet environment that can help patient concentrate on eating or other similar tasks. Limit the number of baths as physical activity required for shower may make some patients aggressive or uncomfortable.
  • Ensure Family Activities. Plan comfortable routine activities with patients that attract their interest. Engaging patients in healthy activities can help delay downward behavior trend. Just don’t push any activity in which the patient is not interested.
  • Follow Consistent Bedtime. Make sure to keep the bed time consistent to develop the internal clock that works on its own. Provide peaceful environment with no noise.

Taking help from Professional Caregivers

In many cases, family members taking care of dementia patients often begin suffering with anxiety, stress and growing depression. As care givers have to sacrifice their social interactions, put more time and effort along with compounding grief of seeing loved ones in poor mental condition, they develop their own mental problems like depression.

This is why taking help from professional caregivers is often very important as they not only take good care of the patients but also conduct sessions with family members which help them understand their feelings. With professional advice, family members can develop strategies to deal with the growing stress while taking better care of loved ones.

 

  

 

Knowing When it’s Time to Ask for Help in Home Care

Posted on by Martin

Whether a person is elderly or disabled, it can be difficult to know when to ask for help. Societally, we are taught that asking for help is a sign of weakness and a cause for embarrassment. Unfortunately, nothing could be further than the truth. If one of your friends or loved one is facing difficulty due to age or disability, certain telltale signs can help indicate when it is time to hire in-home help.

General Signs that It’s Time to Ask for Help

When an elderly or disabled friend or loved one needs help, the signs may manifest in a variety of ways. Some signs are clearly big-picture issues that will be obvious to friends and family, regardless of distance or relationship. Keep an eye out for the following:

Close Calls or New Difficulties

If your elderly or disabled loved one has been living alone, it’s likely that they have been relatively self-sufficient for some time. However, if your loved one has recently begun having new difficulties or suffering from close calls, like falls, medical scares or even car accidents, it’s likely that it is time to ask for help.

When an elderly or disabled person lives alone, these close calls are more likely to happen again and again and, when they do, it is wise to employ a trusted caretaker in order to ensure that somebody is there to respond to falls or other accidents.

Chronic Health Conditions or Worsening Health

Progressive issues like dementia, congestive heart failure and COPD can result in marked, rapid decline a loved one. Generally, the presence of these issues means that it is time to ask for help from a qualified caregiver or to move the person to an assisted living facility.

Difficulty Recovering

In elderly or disabled people, common illnesses like colds or the flu can produce serious health issues. If an elderly or disabled loved on has recently suffered from a common illness but is having a difficult time recovering, consider asking for help. This is especially true if your loved one was unable  or unwilling to get the help he or she needed during the time of the illness, which resulted in the illness becoming much more serious.

Difficulty With Activities of Daily Living

The activities of daily living (ADL’s) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL’s) are the skills an adult needs to live independently – without the care of a relative or caregiver. These skills include dressing oneself, cooking, driving, shopping, using the bathroom, bathing, doing laundry, taking medications and cleaning.

Unfortunately, age or disability often rob people of these abilities and make it increasingly difficult for them to live alone. Fortunately, if a loved one is having difficulty with ADL’s or IADL’S, bringing in-home help into the equation can often restore some independence and help the person live a better life.

Social Signs That It’s Time to Ask for Help

Often, when an elderly or disabled person is beginning to decline, it will become obvious through their social interactions, or lack thereof.  In order to determine if your friend or loved one needs help, keep an eye out for these important social waning signs:

Lack of Friendships

Age and disability make it easy to become reclusive and a person who no longer keeps close companions or pursues friendships may very well be declining. Generally, lack of active friendships is a sign of depressive symptoms and may indicate that it is time to secure in-home help or a change of scenery for your friend or loved one.

Refusal to Leave the Home

When an elderly or disabled person is afraid to drive and unwilling to take public transportation alone, they often begin to go days on end without leaving their home. Often, these individuals benefit from hiring in-home help, which may help them regain their mobility and resume regular outings.

No Activities or Interests

If your friend or loved one has abandoned activities and interests, it is time to call for help. Isolation is generally related to depressive symptoms and acting quickly is the best way to prevent your loved one from becoming further depressed and isolated.

Physical Signs That it’s Time to ask for Help

An elderly or disabled person who is declining will exhibit noticeable physical signs that indicate in-home help is needed. Any of the following signs warrant a call for assistance:

Weight Loss

If your friend or loved one feels thinner or looks like he or she is swimming in their clothing, there’s a good chance that something is wrong. Physical conditions ranging from tumors to depression can cause weight loss, as can declining motor skills that may result in a loss of cooking or shopping ability.

Additionally, some elderly or disabled people may be forgetting how to cook or eat. In these cases, it is wise to ensure there is food in the house and spend some time watching the person prepare a meal for him or herself. In any event, drastic weight loss is a valid reason to call an in-home caregiver.

Weight Gain

Like weight loss, sudden and drastic weight gain can indicate serious health issues like diabetes. Additionally, weight gain may indicate that a person is having financial troubles and subsisting on cheap, processed foods rather than healthy fare. Watch meal prep and call for help if you notice that the person is forgetting having eaten or binge eating all day long.

Frailty

If you notice that your friend or loved one is having difficulty completing simple tasks like removing shoes, opening drawers, sweeping or getting out of a chair, it is time to call for help. As people age, they generally become frailer, which may lead to difficulty completing everyday activities.

Disheveled Appearance

It is generally possible to tell a great deal from a person’s appearance. If you notice that your typically well-kept loved one is wearing stained, sloppy or torn clothing or that hair and makeup are noticeably different or disarranged, consider asking for help. These signs typically indicate that the person has lost strength, dexterity or memory and are a valid reason to call for in-home help. Elderly or disabled people often need help dressing, shaving and fixing their hair and an in-home caregiver can help them meet those needs.

The Case for In-Home Help

Realizing that a friend or loved one needs help is never an easy experience. Watching a person decline is difficult and it is made worse by the fact that they often need help we are simply incapable of giving. In these cases, the most important thing you can do is notice signs that indicate physical or mental deficiencies and take it upon yourself to secure help for your friend or loved one.

Often, elderly or disabled people are embarrassed to ask for help and see it as a sign that they are becoming infantile or incapable. Assure the person that this is not true, that there is nothing to be embarrassed about and that extra help can help them preserve the quality of their life rather than subtracting from it. Although it can be difficult, asking for help is never anything to be embarrassed about and in-home caregiving can often preserve, extend and boost a person’s quality of life for many years.