Home » Assisted Living » Page 7
Tag:

Assisted Living

Housing Tips

Guide for Touring Assisted Living Facilities

by Kimberly Johnson
written by Kimberly Johnson

Guide for Touring Assisted Living Facilities

Guide for Touring Assisted Living FacilitiesIt is a huge responsibility to find the right assisted living facility for your loved one or yourself. It’s one of the most important decisions you will make in your life. This guide will help you discern the differences between communities and the type of care being offered. The decision of “if, when and where to move” is ultimately your choice, so consider what factors are ultimately important to you.
TIP #1: OBSERVE THE LEVEL OF CLEANLINESS & FOLLOW YOUR NOSE
Does the community feel fresh and clean? Make sure to look past the furnishings and into corners, baseboards and windows. Ask how often housekeeping is provided in your personal living space. Make sure you get full details on the types of maintenance provided and the estimated response times. Don’t forget to ask about laundry procedures. Ask for specifics on what is available and at what cost.
Odors in the property may indicate a lack of cleanliness or a temporary problem. If you find smells concentrated to one area on your tour this most likely indicates a single, recent incident. Odors throughout the community most likely indicate a bigger problem. Always ask the manager what they think might be causing the problem.
TIP #2: VISIT DURING AN ACTIVITY
It’s a good idea to try and schedule your tour in conjunction with any community events. Ask the manager if you can watch the activities or
even participate. Are the activities and events well attended? Does the staff seem to be enjoying the activity as well? Take a look at the community calendar of events. Do they match your or your loved one’s interests? Do the events and activities vary in size and type? Do they include trips and outings away from the community? If it is important to you and your family, don’t forget to inquire about religious services.
TIP #3: PAY ATTENTION TO STAFF FRIENDLINESS
The attitude and friendliness of the staff are of the utmost importance. Make sure that you observe several staff members interacting with current residents. Do they listen and make eye contact? Make sure to get a good understanding of the staffing pattern. How many people are actually involved in residents’ care? Make sure you get an introduction to the management team. This will help you understand the goals of the property. It is important that you have confidence in the property’s staff.
TIP #4: VISIT THE OUTDOOR AREAS
Everyone wants to be able to enjoy a nice sunny day outdoors. While visiting communities make sure to investigate the outdoor areas that are available to residents. Does the area feel safe and secure? Does the property house outdoor activities in these areas? Does the staff use the same area for their personal breaks?
TIP #5: EAT A MEAL AT THE PROPERTY
As with most of us, the dining room experience is very important to seniors. When visiting communities it is important to discuss entree choices and learn about dining hours, options and procedures. Make sure you and your loved one enjoy a meal at the property. Not only is it a great way to sample the cuisine, but it also opens up a great opportunity to meet some of the residents. Discuss what happens if a resident is unable to make it to the dining room for a meal.
TIP #6: ASK SECURITY & SAFETY QUESTIONS
Safety and security features are very important for the senior and offer peace of mind for the caregiver. Make sure that bathrooms are accessible and have grab bars in convenient locations. Ask how residents contact staff if they have an emergency in their living area. Find out about other safety features available in living quarters and throughout the community. Make sure you find out about staffing patterns to determine who is on-site at all times to assist residents. Are there registered nurses on site? How do staffing patterns differ at night? How does the community assist or manage residents’ medication needs? Don’t forget to ask specific questions about any other medical needs that must be met for you or your loved one.
TIP #7: ASK QUESTIONS ABOUT PERSONAL CARE
As you go through the tour process make sure you ask a lot of questions about personal care. Discuss bathing options and bathing preferences. It’s a great idea to observe the current residents while visiting communities. Are they clean shaven with well-groomed hair and nails? Are the residents dressed appropriately? Make sure to take into consideration what activities they are involved in and the current weather. Does the staff treat residents with dignity, respect and a smile?
TIP #8: GET FEEDBACK FROM RESIDENTS & FAMILIES
Ask residents and families, past and present, for their honest opinions about the community. Many communities have a resident council that will be happy to answer any of your questions. A Place for Mom and SeniorAdvisor.com have more than 40,000 reviews and ratings from families who have shared their impressions and rated individual communities.
TIP #9: ASK ABOUT MOVE-OUT CRITERIA
Most people do not enjoy moving multiple times and seniors are no different. Ask about specific move-out criteria. Under what circumstances is a resident asked to move out of the community? What type of notice does the resident or caregiver need to give the staff? In many instances a 30-day notice may be required by the property.
TIP #10: TRUST YOUR INSTINCTS
As you are touring make sure you think about yourself or your loved one actually living at the community. Do you imagine you or your loved one being comfortable? Do you feel at ease? Are the staff and residents open, inviting and friendly? Always remember to follow your instincts and your heart!
www.aplaceformom.com
 

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
When is the Right Time for Seniors to Downsize?
Home Improvements

Downsizing in Comfort

by Kimberly Johnson
written by Kimberly Johnson

Downsizing in Comfort: Making the most of a Smaller Space

Paint is cheap: Use it!

Downsizing in comfort: Making the most of a smaller spacePaint can be the best way to open up a smaller room. By using cooler colors – blues and greens – you can trick your eye into thinking the room is much bigger than its actual size. Darker colors tend to make the room look smaller and more constrained. Whether you choose to paint an accent wall to liven up your living room or paint the ceiling white with lighter walls, adding color to a room not only livens up the area, it also creates the illusion of a larger space with smaller square footage. Downsizing in comfort: Making the most of a smaller space
Think vertical
A sizeable amount of wasted space in any room sits between the top of the sofa and the ceiling. You can both utilize unused space in the room and have a place to store sentimental possessions by thinking vertical.[i] Using a large shelf to display family photos and heirlooms or a tall bookcase to house your favorite novels are perfect ways to hold onto possessions important to you without sacrificing precious space.
Keep items off the floor
This goes hand in hand with thinking vertical. You can considerably open up a room by choosing to hang items instead of placing them on the floor. A great way to draw the eye upward instead of downward, and creating the illusion of more space, is by hanging a mirror or a picture higher up on the wall. (ii) By saving the floor for only a large carpet or floor mat, the room is more open and stays cleaner.
Keep function in mind
When living in a smaller space, putting function first is one of the easiest ways to fully take advantage of your living space. One simple rule to follow for small space organizing: personalize your space to your tastes. If you prefer eating on the couch or in your favorite chair, save space in the kitchen by foregoing a larger table in favor of more functional items. If side tables and large television stands are cluttering your living room, think about how you can use a piece of furniture for more than one function; a television stand can double as a bookcase or cabinet, and a coffee table can hold anything from your magazines to your reading glasses to an extra blanket.
Utilize unseen space
Some of the best storage spaces are invisible. Closets with plenty of shelves and closet doors are great places to keep your winter clothes. When your “going-out” outfit does not call for a certain pair of shoes, store them and the rest of your footwear under the bed. Have extra blankets and pillows for when the grandkids want to stay over? Keep them out of sight inside an ottoman with a storage compartment.
Living in a smaller space does not mean you must live uncomfortably. By taking advantage of simple organization tips for small spaces, you can still have the comfort of a larger home without the hassle of spending your time with its maintenance.
Holiday Retirement offers numerous resident programs and amenities designed to make our residents feel welcome and at home. Contact Holiday Retirement to learn more about these and other exciting programs, and to find a location near you.

[i] Pandolfi, Keith. “9 Small-Space Solutions.” This Old House. http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/photos/0,,20301933_20665706,00.html.
[ii] Cannell, Michael. “Make the Most of Small Spaces.” Real Simple. http://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/decorating/decorating-tips-techniques/make-most-small-spaces (accessed April 15, 2015).
Katie McHale
Posted in Mind, Body, and Spirit
0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Comparing Assisted Living Facilities
Housing Tips

Comparing Assisted Living Facilities

by Kimberly Johnson
written by Kimberly Johnson

What to Consider When Comparing Assisted Living Facilities

Comparing Assisted Living FacilitiesSo you’ve done your due diligence and researched all the different types of senior living facilities out there. You know which kind of senior living facility is best for you, but you may be feeling torn about which particular facility to choose…so now what? Comparing Assisted Living Facilities
Choosing the facility that is just right for you is essential, so before you make any final decisions, make sure you know what to consider when comparing assisted-living facilities.

Your Essential Checklist

Here are five factors to consider when comparing assisted-living facilities as outlined by Argentum:

  1. Environment:
    1. Do you like the location and overall appearance of the facility? Is it close by so family and friends can stop in for a visit? (Be sure to check visitation policies!)
    2. Does it have that ‘homey’ feeling? We know nothing can quite replace living in your own home, but can you picture yourself there?
    3. Do residents seem comfortable? Are they socializing with each other? If you can, talk to a few residents about their experience.
    4. Is the staff friendly? Did they greet you when you arrived? Do they smile as you pass by? Do they act professionally (both to you and to other staff members)?
    5. Is the facility well-designed? Does it accommodate walkers and wheelchairs? Are there elevators and/or stairways with handrails? Is there plenty of lighting (both artificial and natural)? Is the floor plan easy to follow so you won’t get lost easily?
  2. Cost:
    1. Does the cost seem reasonable? Could Medicare, Medicaid or any other programs help cover the cost? Be sure you know the facility’s refund and transfer policies.
    2. Does the facility complete a residency agreement? This outlines the personal care, services, fees and other move-in/move-out provisions.|
  3. Health Care:
    1. Is assistance with activities of daily living available 24 hours a day? This includes help with mobility, dressing, eating, grooming, bathing, toileting and hygiene.
    2. Is self-administered medication allowed? Are there specific policies regulating the storage of medication?
    3. Does a staff member organize home healthcare visits from a nurse, occupational therapist, physical therapist, etc.?
    4. What is the facility’s procedure should a resident experience a medical emergency? Be sure to ask for details!
  4. Services/Amenities:
    1. What personal care services are available? Ask for a complete list.
    2. Are three meals a day, seven days a week provided? Do menus include a variety of nutritional food? Are special dietary restrictions considered? Are there set mealtimes?
    3. Are housekeeping services provided?
    4. Is transportation to doctor appointments, stores, hairdressers, or any other activity provided?
  5. Social Events:
    1. Are there daily, organized activities? Look for a daily schedule posted around the facility; even check for reading materials! Do residents typically participate in these or other activities taking place outside the facility?
    2. Can family members attend or volunteer at these social events?
    3. Are pets allowed in the facility and who responsible for their care? Some facilities have their own pets.

Some other ideas: check that the facility conducts criminal background checks on all staff members and if they’re trained on elder abuse and neglect. It’s a sad reality that this type of abuse does happen, so make sure you’re putting the care of a loved one into trustworthy hands.
It’s also a good idea to travel to facilities with a family member or friend to get a second opinion, but don’t let their thoughts completely sway yours. After all, you’re the one who will live there, and your comfort at an assisted-living facility should be your and your loved one’s top priority.
Author: Meghan Orner
Medical Guardian
https://www.facebook.com/MedicalGuardian
https://twitter.com/MedicalGuardian
https://plus.google.com/+Medicalguardian
 

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Ask an Expert: 5 Tactics for Dementia Caregiving
Caregiving

Healthy Boundaries When Caregiving

by Kimberly Johnson
written by Kimberly Johnson

Healthy Boundaries When Caregiving

Healthy Boundaries When CaregivingCaregiving is a selfless job. You provide support to someone who desperately needs it from you. You give, give, give and give some more. However, when does that giving get to be too much? When does the giving cross boundaries? Healthy Boundaries When Caregiving

Why Crossing Boundaries Is Bad

The reason crossing boundaries is bad is because it can burn someone out quickly. This can make them overly tired, grumpy, and resentful. It can also lead to illness. Usually, this is because the person puts the other person’s needs before his/her own. This just leads them to feeling worse than what the person receiving caregiving felt before.
“Over attachment” is something caregivers and seniors need to pay attention to when they are in a situation such as this one. It’s not healthy because each of them depend on one another. When something happens and they are not able to be around each other, there’s a feeling of loss. It is incredibly bad when this happens and the senior passes. The caregiver is left feeling as though all that he/she was living for is gone.

How to Establish and Maintain Boundaries

Establishing and maintaining boundaries isn’t as difficult as you may think. You will need time away for yourself regularly. This time should not be committed to something else such as work, family, or friends. It needs to be time in which you can reflect and recharge. You may spend this time doing something you enjoy such as painting, drawing, or some other hobby. It might be time to write in a journal, scrapbook, or just read. This time should be solely for you, so you know how to spend quality time with yourself.
When you first start doing this, you will feel weird. You will feel as though there is something missing. You may even feel guilty. This feeling is normal and it is a sign that you were becoming overly attached. Give yourself time to adjust. Do it for as long as you can, and then go back to life as you normally live it. As you do it more, the break will start to feel better. Over time, you will start to enjoy it, and you may even get to a point where you will look forward to it. Yes, it doesn’t seem as though that is possible right now, but it really is…
Once you have established boundaries, the next obstacle to overcome is maintaining them. Things will come up that will make it difficult to keep those boundaries intact. You may feel as though you are being pulled in many different directions, and giving up your time will feel as though that is the easiest option. Do not allow yourself to do that. You don’t need to give yourself up. It’s best to find some other way to deal with the situation, so you still get your time. If that means you have to say no sometimes, or have someone step in and take care of your loved one, that’s okay. You do not have to feel guilty about it. You are taking care of your loved one, but you’re also taking care of yourself.

Need More Help?

If you feel as though you have a lack of boundaries with your loved one as a caregiver, but you can’t see yourself establishing boundaries and maintaining them, consider turning to a personal consultant. Kendall Van Blarcom is a professional personal consultant who can help you improve your life as a caregiver, so you can continue to love what you do for your loved one. Contact him now for more information on how personal consulting can help you through some of the struggles that are common for caregivers.
Kendall Van Blarcom
www.KvanB.com

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Understanding Long-Term Care Costs
Caregiving

Understanding Long Term Care Costs

by Kimberly Johnson
written by Kimberly Johnson

Understanding Long-Term Care Costs

Understanding Long Term Care Costs

Don’t let Long Term Care Costs Surprise Your Family

There are important realities to understanding long term care costs. Long term care is more expensive than most people think. And, most importantly, the cost of care is usually paid for out of savings and income. Understanding Long-Term Care Costs
About 70 percent of people turning 65 can expect to need some kind of long-term care as they age. A number of public programs, including Medicare and Medicaid, may help pay for some long-term care services under certain circumstances. However, each program has specific rules about what services are covered, how long you can receive benefits, whether or not you qualify for benefits, and how much you have to pay in out-of-pocket costs. To accurately plan for your long-term care needs, it is very important to know the facts about what may or may not be covered. Understanding Long-Term Care Costs

MEDICARE FOCUSES ON ACUTE CARE COSTS

Medicare covers medically necessary care and focuses on medical acute care, such as doctor visits, drugs and hospital stays. If very specific conditions are met, Medicare will help pay for all or a portion of a short stay in a skilled nursing facility, hospice care or home health care.
Medicare does not cover custodial long-term care services. These services and supports help people perform Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) that are non-medical, such as getting in and out of bed, walking, bathing, dressing, eating, and bowel and bladder management. Understanding Long-Term Care Costs

MEDICAID ONLY AVAILABLE IF INCOME AND ASSETS ARE LOW ENOUGH

Medicaid is a joint federal and state government program that helps people with low income and assets pay for some or all of their health care bills. It covers medical care, long-term care services in nursing homes and long-term care services provided at home. Rules about who is eligible for Medicaid benefits and what services are covered are based on federal requirements, but states have considerable leeway in how they operate their programs.
To be eligible for Medicaid, you must meet certain requirements, including having income and assets that do not exceed the levels used by your state. The Medicaid eligibility process considers the value of your home to make sure it is under the state set limit, your assets and your income. Documentation from your financial institutional “looking back” five years will be required. Once your state determines you are financially eligible for Medicaid, the state will conduct a functional assessment to determine whether you are disabled enough to qualify for long term care services. Your state Medicaid Assistance office is the best source for information about how to qualify for Medicaid in your state and if you qualify for long term care services.
If you receive Medicaid coverage for long term care services, federal law requires states to recover the amount Medicaid spent on your behalf from your estate after you die. Most states recover the cost of long term care services.

PAYING OUT-OF-POCKET FOR CARE

If you have enough income and savings, you will need to pay for long-term care services on your own, from your incomes, savings and, possibly, the equity in your home. Many people believe wrongly the medical insurance or disability insurance they currently have will pay for all or much of their long-term care. In general, health insurance covers only very limited and specific types of long-term care. Disability policies serve to replace income and, as such, do not cover long-term care at all.
Long-term care insurance is designed to cover long-term services and supports. Policies reimburse policyholders a daily amount (up to a pre-selected limit) for services to assist them with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing or eating. You can then select a range of care options and benefits that allow you to get the services you need, where you need them. If you are in poor health or already receiving long-term care services, you may not qualify for long-term care insurance.
For more information about additional methods of paying for long-term care, including reverse mortgages, annuities and trusts, visit www.longtermcare.gov. Understanding Long-Term Care Costs

CALCULATING THE COST

Because there are many kinds of long-term care services and supports, there is a wide range of costs depending on the type of care needed, duration of care needed, provider you choose and where you live. Some average costs for long-term care in the United States (in 2010) were:

  • $19 per hour for homemaker services
  • $21 per hour for a home health aide
  • $67 per day for services in an adult day health care center
  • $3,293 per month for care in an assisted living facility (for a one-bedroom unit)
  • $205 per day or $6,235 per month for a semi-private room in a nursing home
  • $229 per day or $6,965 per month for a private room in a nursing home

Calculate the cost of care in your area by visiting http://longtermcare.gov/costs-how-to-pay/costs-of-care-in-your-state/.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Age-In-Place

How the ‘Uber Economy’ May Threaten Assisted Living

by Jeff Dailey
written by Jeff Dailey

How the ‘Uber Economy’ May Threaten Assisted Living
assisted livingThe so-called ‘Uber economy’ has created controversy about what the future of various industries will look like—the senior living sector included. How the ‘Uber Economy’ May Threaten Assisted Living
Companies such as Uber, Instacart and TaskRabbit now offer alternatives to past ways of offering senior-oriented services, consequently transforming how the older demographic accomplishes everyday tasks, The Washington Post reported.
“I’m all for all these newfangled things that make life easier,” 88-year-old Sally Lindover told the Post. Lindover uses Instacart, which grocery shops for its users, and rents out her apartment’s second bedroom using Airbnb.
“I like to be here when people come in,” Lindover said. “I like to see them, and they see me, and I can give them some information about the neighborhood.”
Over 50% of Airbnb’s hosts are older than 40, and 10% of them are older than 60, the Post reported. Empty-nesters often have a surplus of rooms to rent, as well as “the life experience to know what it means to welcome someone into your home,” according to Anita Roth, Airbnb’s head of policy research.

Meanwhile, 25% of the drivers at Uber, which recently announced a partnership with AARP, are 50 years old or older.

According to the Post, traditional senior-oriented services are considering the possibility that similar tech companies may steal away their future customers.
“I do view it as both a threat and an opportunity,” said Tom Grape, CEO of Benchmark Senior Living. He added that decision not to move to senior living “is already our biggest competitor, and of course we fully expect that technology will allow people to stay at home longer in the future.”
Written by Mary Kate Nelson of SeniorHousingNews.com

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Fire Safety Tips for Seniors
Housing Tips

Fire Safety Tips for Seniors

by Jeff Dailey
written by Jeff Dailey

Fire Safety Tips for Seniors

Fire Safety Tips for SeniorsIt may come as a surprise, but it’s during these chilly winter months that the most home fires occur. Why? Heating equipment is most often the cause of wintertime home fires, and even holiday decorations can become fire hazards. Thousands are affected by home fires every year, especially the elderly, which is why it is so important to be aware of fire safety tips for seniors. Fire Safety in Elderly Homes
At a Greater Risk
Fact: seniors are twice as likely to suffer fire-related injuries or fatalities than younger age groups. This higher probability could be due to a variety of causes. Limited mobility is perhaps the biggest contributing factor, but a decrease in the strength of one’s five senses could also be a factor, especially if they are unable to smell smoke in the house. In addition, some older adults may have difficulty making the quick decisions that are necessary during a fire if they suffer from a form or dementia or if they take certain medications.
Top Fire Safety Tips
Although the statistics outlined above are worrisome, preparing for a home fire can go a long way in remaining safe in your home. To ensure you and your loved ones stay safe from fires all winter long, follow these fire safety tips for seniors from Ready.gov and the National Fire Protection Association:

  • Number 1 on your list: Regularly check all smoke detectors in your home. The detectors’ batteries should be replaced at least twice a year (when Daylight Savings Time begins/ends is a good reminder to do so). If you do not feel comfortable checking the smoke detectors, ask a family member, caregiver, or trustworthy neighbor to do it for you.
  • Never leave the kitchen when food is cooking. It’s easy to forget that the food is cooking when you leave the room, and unattended food and grease flare-ups are two of the biggest reasons why most home fires begin in the kitchen. Don’t wear clothing that is too long or baggy while cooking as it is more likely to catch fire.
  • Place protective screens on fireplaces, and never leave a flame unattended – whether it’s a large fireplace or a small candle. Do not use candles during a power outage as this greatly increases the risk of a home fire. (For more power outage safety tips, click here.)
  • Keep space heaters at least three feet away from curtains, bedding or anything that could catch fire. An added tip: install carbon monoxide detectors in rooms with a fireplace, space heater or lantern to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • Don’t smoke indoors and always make sure that the cigarette and ashes are out. Another big risk factor is smoking in bed – always be alert when smoking. Don’t place ashtrays on furniture as chairs and sofas burn quickly.
  • Be on the lookout for frayed wires or damaged appliance cords. If lights flicker or the light switch is hot when you touch it, have a professional replace them.
  • If possible, have all of the essential rooms, like your bedroom and bathroom, on the first floor so you can quickly exit your home in case of a fire.
  • Be sure to practice a fire escape plan with your loved ones. It’s also a good idea to keep a list of emergency contacts by each telephone for quick reference.

Home fires are certainly scary, but these precautionary steps can help you and your loved ones stay safe in your homes all winter long.
Author: Meghan Orner
Medical Guardian
https://www.facebook.com/MedicalGuardian
https://twitter.com/MedicalGuardian
https://plus.google.com/+Medicalguardian
Links Used in Article:
http://safety.lovetoknow.com/Elderly_Fire_Safety
http://www.ready.gov/home-fires
http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/for-consumers/populations/older-adults
https://www.medicalguardian.com/medical-alert-blog/in-the-news/how-power-outages-affect-the-elderly
 

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Live in Companions for seniors
Age-In-Place

Live in Companions for Seniors

by Jeff Dailey
written by Jeff Dailey

Live in Companions for Seniors

Live In Caregivers at Home

Live in Companions for seniorsMany aging seniors are not willing to leave home for an assisted living placement. Often, a health crisis must occur before they agree to placement. We cannot blame them; home is their security and freedom. Home is a familiar place where they feel comfort and joy. Naturally, when we give them choices, whether to live in an assisted home community or stay at their home by themselves, they choose the latter. Live-in Companionship
However, when children have their own lives to live, leaving aging seniors by themselves creates worry and stress. Hiring a live-in companion is an ideal solution.

The Responsibilities of a Live-In

The responsibilities of a live-in companion may vary depending on the elders need. Generally, a live-in companion provides assistance on ADL’s (activity of daily living), meal preparation, home maintenance, laundry and running errands. Live in Companions for Seniors

The Advantages of Senior Care at Home with a Live-In

Hiring a live-in companion has several advantages over assisted living placement.

  • Seniors will enjoy the benefit of staying home. This setting will personally benefit the seniors. They are able to stay in their own house, and enjoy living near family and friends. Also, they are able to eat meals according to their liking. With a live-in companion, you are able to receive one- on- one assistance and care as oppose to care being provided for group settings where you have limited choices.
  • Family members can participate in care giving. Aging parents need their family’s love and support. With your family member around or near you, you are able to participate in care giving. Giving them a few hours of your time is a perfect way of expressing your love and appreciation to them.
  • Live-in caregivers are cost effective. Many think live-in caregivers are an expensive option since board and lodging will be provided. Yet, a live-in companion is reported to be cheaper than the cost of assisted living placement or long term care facility. Also, this setting is flexible. If assistance is not necessarily in 24/7 basis, you can have your own schedule to benefit both the caregiver and the recipient.
  • Live-in caregivers develop trust. The continuity of a live-in foster’s trust. When you are away from home, you will not worry about your parents because you know they are in good hands.
    Home care minimizes exposure to contagious illnesses. In senior’s facility, there are groups of people who share common places like dining. There your loved one may be exposed to possible contagious diseases. If they are living at home their exposure can be minimized.
  • A live-in companion for your aging parent has a great advantage in comparison to the assisted living placement. However, it is not an ideal option for elders who have chronic or complicated health issues.

Author: Yvonne Stutzke, R.N.
http://www.nightingaleprivatecare.com

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Tax Benefits of Caregiving of Aging Relative
Caregiving

Taking Care of the Caregiver

by Jeff Dailey
written by Jeff Dailey

 

Taking Care of the Caregiver

Taking Care of Caregiver“In case of a loss in cabin pressure, oxygen masks will drop down from above…. Please be sure to secure your own mask before assisting others.” If you’ve flown on an airplane in the last few decades, you’ve heard this speech. It illustrates the truth that you have to take care of yourself in order to care effectively for others. Taking Care of the Caregiver
Are you caring for aging parents, young children, a relative who is ill, or some combination of the above? You know how challenging it can be to find the time to take care of yourself–body, mind and spirit.
And, if you don’t take care of yourself, you are setting yourself up for caregiver burnout. Symptoms include depression, anxiety, irritability, difficulty sleeping, fatigue, trouble concentrating, deteriorating health, and resentment toward those you’re caring for.
Here are five ways to help stay centered and at peace while you care for others:

Ask for help

Don’t be shy about telling family and friends how they can assist you. Delegate caregiving tasks such as helping with groceries and errands. Look into respite care— adult day care services or paid or volunteer in-home helpers may be available through local agencies. Develop a cooperative childcare arrangement with other caregivers and take turns getting away.

Practice Acceptance

When dealing with a family member’s illness, you may have struggled to make sense of the situation and asked, “Why!” You’ll feel better if you focus on best ways to respond to the situation. Try to see a silver lining—how you are growing as a person, the opportunity to express love…

Care for Your Health

Nutritious foods including fruits and vegetables help keep your energy steady. Go easy on sweets and caffeine that give a quick pickup followed by a crash. Try for at least 30 minutes of exercise a day. It boosts your energy, relieves stress, lifts your mood and helps you sleep better. Relaxation is important: A few minutes of yoga or meditation in a stressful day can help you stay centered. Remember your own medical exams and appointments!

Find a Support Group

Talking with others having similar experiences is a tried and true way to maintain emotional balance— and an opportunity to share knowledge and practical tips. You’re not alone! Find a group through your doctor or hospital, or through an organization dedicated to the relevant disease or situation. Online groups are also available.

Take a break!

For at least a half hour daily, do what you love, whether it’s reading poetry, working in the yard, or watching the game. Get out of the house; if you can’t get out, invite friends in. Share your feelings–just expressing what you’re going through brings a lot of relief. Find ways to pamper yourself. Light candles and take a bubble bath. Put on music and dance. Get a manicure.
A reflexology session is also an excellent way to nurture yourself. Reflexology sessions include techniques to calm the nervous system, help eliminate toxins and encourage the release of endorphins, natural “feel-good” hormones. From the moment a reflexologist’s hands start their work, relaxation begins. And it feels great!
For more tips click here
Laura Norman, M.S., LMT, world-renowned Holistic Reflexologist and author of the best-selling book, Feet First: A Guide to Foot Reflexology, offers private Reflexology and Life Wellness Coaching sessions in Delray Beach and Holistic Reflexology Training Programs in Boynton Beach.

0 comment
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts