Guest BloggerTalking to Senior Parents about Drugs
As our bodies age and the health we took for granted in our youth fades into cellular disruptions, disorders, diseases and chronic aches and pains, we turn to the wonders of drugs — prescription, over-the-counter, and vitamins and supplements. So much so, that by the time we are 60 and older, more than 76 percent of us use two or more prescription drugs and 37 percent use five or more, according to a 2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. And that figure does not include over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and supplements, which other studies indicate could easily double medication amounts.
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SilveradoAsk an Expert: Five Tactics for Dementia Caregiving
Caring for a loved one living with Alzheimer’s or dementia can be an incredibly tiresome job. From the long hours, to psychological exhaustion, to the physically demanding environment, there are very few ways to actively prepare for and predict the responsibilities that caregiving entails. Silverado’s Director of Clinical Education Sue Kruse shares key tactics for managing the day-to-day challenges of dementia caregivers. Communication Through Understanding According to Kruse, one of the most frustrating problem areas for individuals with dementia and their caregivers is communication. Many times, the person living with dementia may be unable to express their needs, leading
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Kylie JohnsonWhat to consider when choosing an in-home care provider
If you are looking into hiring an in-home care provider here are some things to consider: Service availability Home health aide schedules vary between agencies. This can impact affordability and convenience when hiring a service. Home for the holidays: Does the agency offer holiday service? Many elderly people celebrate in their own homes, making it crucial for an assistant to be available during these days. Part-time option: Not all seniors need round-the-clock care, so a part-time option helps keep costs low. Overtime service: Family members responsible for primary care may face a late day at the office, bad traffic or
Continue readingTypes of home care services
Home health aides Home health aides are professionals who can help with self-care, housework, cooking and more. They might also perform some basic medical tasks. Home health aides sometimes have medical training, so they might be certified nursing assistants (CNAs) or licensed practical nurses (LPNs). However, there aren’t any specific standards requiring a home health aide to have particular training or certification. If you’re looking for someone to help with any medical-related tasks, ask about certifications when choosing your provider. Medicare or Medicaid might pay for help from a home health aide. Nurses Home care nurses often handle the basic
Continue readingHow to choose a home care provider
1. Write down all the care services needed Start by making a complete list of all the tasks you or your loved one needs help with. Once you have this list, you can decide whether you need one provider or a few with different specialties. 2. Screen over the phone first Next, call the companies that advertise the services you need and confirm that their employees can do everything needed. Use the list of questions from Eldercare.gov to ensure your loved one will receive quality care. 3. Interview in the resident’s home If a provider meets your standards after talking
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Richard BitnerSteering Clear of Profit-First Senior Care
When someone you love requires senior care, it’s important that they receive care from a provider who puts seniors first. The sudden boom in America’s elderly population has made senior care one of America’s most lucrative industries. While many owners of senior care agencies and facilities are getting into the industry for the right reasons, too many others only see dollar signs. Instead of putting seniors first, they’re prioritizing the bottom line. Steering Clear of Profit-First Senior Care At Visiting Angels®, we’ve been focused on seniors’ well-being for more than twenty years and have become one of the most trusted names
Continue readingAssisted Living vs. Nursing Home vs. Home Care
How to choose the right living situation for your aging parent You have to consider several factors (finances, health care needs and preferences) when choosing where your aging loved one should live. Although seniors have many different living options, most people choose an assisted living facility, a nursing home or in-home care. Before making any decision about where your loved one should live, talk to them. Find out what they want their daily life to look like and what would make them happiest. Their ideal situation (retiring to Hawaii, for example) might not be feasible, but having an honest conversation
Continue readingWhy is Dementia Rate Rising 5X as Fast as US Population
Cases of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia have increased sharply in the US over the past several years. The reason why it is taken for granted: as the American population grows older, dementia becomes more prevalent. But Alzheimer’s and other dementias may be spreading faster than many people think. Why is Dementia Rate Rising 5X as Fast as US Population A new study, funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), has found that cases of Alzheimer’s and dementia are projected to increase from 6 million cases in 2017 to 15 million cases by 2060. That’s an increase of
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Kathy MacaraegResources to Help Caregivers
Become a caregiver for a spouse or elderly parent can be overwhelming. From managing two households to overseeing or providing personal care, it can be difficult to reach out for help when you don’t know where to turn. Whether you need help in the home or emotional support for you or your parent, reaching out can make a positive impact on your day-to-day life. These underutilized free or low cost resources are a great place to start in connecting with others and finding support on your caregiving journey. Resources to Help Caregivers Senior Centers: I am a huge fan of senior
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