Posted by Lauren Batalka on Fri, Feb 03, 2012
The need for extra help around the home is a reality most senior adults will eventually face. Helping your parents to come to grips with this transition can help them avoid further suffering. Utilize these strategies to have a positive conversation with your parents about in-home care.
Illustrate the Advantages- Begin your conversation by addressing recent problems your parent may be experiencing, such as a recent fall injury, decrease in personal hygiene, or disinterest in beloved past times. Engaging your parents in these conversations makes it easier to posit in-home care as a positive solution. Likewise, relating the benefits of in-home care to your parent’s independence is another productive conversation route. Suggest how an in-home care professional can help your parents maintain their daily life, unhindered by health problems.
Be Sensitive- Try to put yourself in your parent or loved one’s shoes before starting a conversation about in-home care. Major life shifts can produce intense anxiety in aging adults. Confrontation with the aging process is a substantial challenge for many seniors. Empathizing and acknowledging these feelings can help you connect with your parents. This bond will likely help your parent become more receptive to the benefits of in-home care.
Address Your Own Challenges- The issues of an aging adult impact the entire family. Help your parent understand how an in-home care specialist can improve the lives of you and your children. Many parents are more responsive when the wellbeing of their loved ones is entered into the equation. Establish a list of in-home care advantages to illustrate the change as a far-reaching solution.
One call to Home Helpers can give you and your parents all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Posted by Lauren Batalka on Thu, Jan 12, 2012
We found an interesting article from caregiver.com that is helpful for family caregivers and professional caregivers alike! Apply these tips to your everyday life and you might see a difference with your stress levels and overall health.
Twenty Ways To Care for the Caregiver
Twenty of the best tips and ideas collected from Caregivers and care managers of the Medicare Alzheimer's Project in Broward and Dade Counties, Florida.
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Laugh about something everyday.
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Take care of yourself physically.
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Eat a well-balanced diet.
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Talk with someone every day.
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Let family and friends help. Give them printed material on memory disorders so they can better understand your relative. Give them a chance.
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Give yourself permission to have a good cry. Tears aren't a weakness, they reduce tension.
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Exercise. A brisk walk counts.
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Get adequate rest.
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Try a bowl of Cheerios and milk before bed to promote sleep.
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Avoid noisy and/or tension-filled movies at night. The late news itself can add to stress. Skip it.
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Reduce daily caffeine intake.
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Get professional help if you feel your support system isn't adequate or if you feel overwhelmed.
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Take a break very day, even if it's only 10 minutes alone in the backyard.
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Explore community resources and connect yourself with them.
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Listen to music.
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Learn relaxation techniques.
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Regularly attend one or more support groups and education workshops.
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Give yourself a treat at least once a month: an ice cream cone....a new shirt or dress....a night out with friends....a flowering plant.
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Read your Caregiver's Bill of Rights (and Today's Caregiver magazine)
Know your limitations.
Do you need to take a break from caregiving? To learn about respite care, click HERE!
Posted by Lauren Batalka on Tue, Dec 20, 2011
With the holidays in full-swing, this article seems more than fitting. “Caregiving and the Holidays: From Stress to Success!” was published by the Family Caregiver Alliance.
For many caregivers the holiday season gives rise to stress, frustration and anger, instead of peace and good will.
Caregivers may feel resentful towards other family members who they feel have not offered enough assistance. Managing care for someone who has a cognitive impairment may leave caregivers feeling that they will not be able to participate as fully as they would like in family gatherings. Already feeling overwhelmed with caregiving tasks, stressed-out caregivers may view traditional holiday preparations as more of a drain of precious energy than a joy.
Following are some suggestions that may help make the holidays more enjoyable for you and your loved ones. Keep in mind that the holidays can, in fact, provide unique opportunities to seek better communication, connection and support from family and friends.
An opportunity for communication
It’s hard to know how much to communicate about a loved one’s decline in cognitive functioning and personal care needs. Whom do you tell? How much do you tell?
Although it is understandable to have reservations about discussing a loved one’s impairments, honest communication about the realities of the caregiving situation offers others the opportunity to respond with assistance. Sharing the truths of your situation may help reduce some of the feelings of isolation and lack of appreciation common in caregivers.
Holiday greetings and a brief note
Some caregivers have had success in writing a brief note describing the person’s condition and enclosing it in a holiday greeting card. This can be a nonthreatening way to inform distant or uninvolved relatives about the realities of the caregiving situation. If written in a tone that’s not accusatory or guilt-inducing, family members may be more forthcoming with assistance or, at least, have a better understanding of the effort you are putting into providing care.
Let sleeping dogs lie?
It is common for caregivers to be disappointed with family members who they feel are not "pulling their weight" in caregiving responsibilities. If this holds true for you, and your goal is to enjoy the holidays, you must decide how much and when to communicate this disappointment. Consider clearing the air before the holidays or perhaps resolve within yourself to put those feelings on hold, with the intention to discuss the matter after the holiday season passes. In the meantime, enjoy the holiday!
Be clear about your energy level
Let family members know that your caregiving duties are keeping you very busy and that you only have so much energy for holiday preparation and hosting duties.
Accept the need to adapt
Caregivers often have to adapt their traditional role or experience of the holidays. This may mean allowing another family member to host more time-intensive festivities. You may need to modify the amount of time away from home to match the comfort level of your impaired loved one. You may also have to choose which events to attend based on which would be the simplest, least exhausting and most enjoyable for the person for whom you provide care—and for you.
The visit room
Don’t expect the person with cognitive impairment to be able to adapt to all situations; you may need to adapt the environment to their needs. See if you can arrange to have another room in the house designated as a quiet place for the impaired person. Many people with dementia find multiple conversations and background noise disturbing. To avoid this anxiety, the person may benefit from time in a quieter room with less stimulus where family members could take turns visiting with them.
Share your wish list
- Respite: some caregivers ask for time off from caregiving duties as a gift for the holidays. This could mean another family member gives you a break. Sometimes asking for a Saturday off "in the next three months" is more accepted, as family members can then schedule it into their calendars. If this is not possible, perhaps they would consider paying for a home care worker or a stay at a respite facility. Your FCA Family Consultant can help you locate these resources in your area.
- Home repairs: Do light bulbs need changing, or grab bars need installation? That maddening pile of junk in the garage needs to go to the dump? Tasks such as these may be the perfect way for a family member to help out if providing personal care is too uncomfortable for them.
- Care for you! How about a gift certificate for a massage, facial or manicure? How about an opportunity to spend the day fishing or a walk in the outdoors?
- Book your homecare worker early! Speak with your home care worker or home care agency early about your holiday plans!
Schedule one-on-one time
While caregiving, it is easy to get caught up in all the tasks of personal care and homemaking chores. Make a point of setting some time aside this holiday season to enjoy the person you care for in a relaxed, one-on-one context. The best activities are those which take advantage of long-term memory—usually less impaired in people with dementia. Try looking through family photo albums or unpacking holiday decorations, which may stimulate memories.
Reflect on the rewards
Reflecting on the rewards of caregiving can help maintain your self-esteem. It may feel very rewarding to know that you are fulfilling a vow or promise you have made to the person for whom you provide care. Your caregiving may be an expression of living up to your personal ideals or religious beliefs. You may also be experiencing a great deal of growth as you learn new skills and meet challenges in ways you never imagined possible.
A little thank you goes a long way
After the holidays, write a thank you note to family members or friends who spent time with your loved one. Emphasize the positive impact their visit or brief time spent with your loved one had on them. This may reinforce positive feelings from their visit and diminish any discomfort they experienced. They may then be more encouraged to visit again or be more supportive of your efforts.
Posted by Lauren Batalka on Wed, Nov 09, 2011
Currently, there are more than 24 million Veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces that have reintegrated back into our society. It's important that we take time to recognize and celebrate the Veterans who have served our country.
In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a bill proclaiming November 11th as a Veterans Day and called upon Americans everywhere to rededicate themselves to the cause of peace. He issued a Presidential Order directing the head of the Veterans Administration, now the Department of Veterans Affairs, to form a Veterans Day National Committee to organize and oversee the national observance of Veterans Day.
Veterans Day is intended to thank and honor all those who served honorably in the military - in wartime or peacetime. Veterans Day is largely intended to thank living Veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who served - not only those who died - have sacrificed and done their duty.
For information about local ceremonies, please visit:
Ceremonies at VA National Cemeteries: http://www.cem.va.gov/CEM/cems/2011VetDay.asp#PA
Regional Observances: http://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/regsites.asp
At Home Helpers, we work closely with Veterans to bring care into their homes. For information about the Veteran's Aid and Attendance Benefit, please click HERE.
Posted by Lauren Batalka on Fri, Oct 28, 2011
We all face difficult changes as we age- such as illness or death of friends and loved ones, retirement, or medical problems. These life changes can often lead to depression, and left untreated, depression can have a serious impact on your physical health, memory, concentration, and overall enjoyment of life.
It is estimated that about 6 million older Americans suffer from depression; however, depression does not have to be a standard or necessary symptom of aging. It’s important to know how to spot the signs of depression and seek proper treatment. Some red flags are:
- Sadness
- Fatigue
- Abandoning or losing interest in hobbies or pleasurable activities
- Social withdrawal and isolation
- Weight loss or loss of appetite
- Sleep disturbances
- Loss of self-worth (worries about being a burden, feelings of worthlessness)
- Fixation on death; suicidal thoughts or attempts
Seniors who deny feeling sad or depressed may still suffer from major depression. Look for these red flags:
- Unexplained or aggravated aches and pains
- Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness
- Anxiety and worries
- Memory problems
- Lack of motivation/energy
- Slowed movement and speech
- Irritability
- Los of interest in socializing and hobbies
- Neglecting personal care
It’s important to note that you should never assume any cognitive changes are simply a sign of old age. Cognitive changes may be due to either dementia or depression and should be assessed by a medical professional.
Many depressed seniors fail to recognize the signs and symptoms of depression, and never seek treatment. It’s estimated that only 10 percent of seniors seek medical help. Depression in seniors is often overlooked because:
- Many assume that depression is just a part of aging.
- Seniors tend to be more isolated, which in itself can lead to depression, and with lack of interaction, few around will notice a problem.
- Seniors may be reluctant to talk about feels, or seek help.
Resources and more information about seniors and depression:
Depression in Older Adults: A Guide for Patients and Families
Depression in Older Adults
Posted by Lauren Batalka on Fri, Oct 21, 2011
You’re probably hearing more and more about Long-Term Care Insurance, especially if you are a Baby Boomer. It’s important that you learn about all of your options while planning for your future. It’s equally important that you know whether or not your loved one has a policy if you are their caregiver.
Long-Term Care Insurance (LTCI) began in the early 1970’s, following the establishment of Medicare and Medicaid. The original policies covered care only in nursing homes. Over time, policies have evolved to provide easier qualification, payment for more diverse services, and benefits lasting for longer periods of time. Long-term care services are received in a variety of settings, including your home, adult day care programs, assisted living facilities, continuing care retirement communities, Alzheimer’s facilities, hospice facilities and skilled nursing facilities.
You are probably wondering why you would want to buy LTCI.
- Peace of Mind- LTCI can offer affordable protection by covering services to help provide quality care.
- Asset Protection- Retirement funds and life savings can easily diminish due to the high out of pocket cost of nursing homes, assisted living, and even home care. LTCI helps protect you from the need to utilize your assets for care needs.
- Burden- Most people don’t want to burden their spouse or children with the cost of care.
- Choice- With LTCI, you have a choice of care options. With Medicaid, the freedom of choice is lost, along with personal assets.
Who Should Consider Purchasing LTCI?
It’s difficult to predict how much care you will need in the future and whether or not you’ll have family or friends to help with your care needs. There are many factors to consider when looking into LTCI. Some people who might want to consider LTCI are:
- Those with significant assets and income to protect from the costs of long-term care services.
- Those who want to maintain their independence and not have to rely on family or friends for physical or financial support.
- Those who can afford to pay the premiums, even into retirement. Be sure to take into consideration the possibility of premium increases.
Should I wait?
Waiting to purchase LTCI may become an expensive decision. Most people don’t buy LTCI because the don’t understand that importance of planning for their future. Delaying your purchase of LTCI could result in ineligibility to due to health reasons. Some health factors that could deem you uninsurable include:
- Alzheimer’s Disease or other permanent cognitive impairment
- Malignant, inoperable, incurable, recurrent, and metastatic cancers
- Parkinson’s Disease
- HIV or AIDS
- Arthritis- Rheumatoid and osteoarthritis when degenerative or with functional limitations
- ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease)
- Strokes and TIAs (“mini strokes”)
- Diabetes with significant insulin use or complications
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Certain eating disorders and severe psychiatric conditions
- Current use of assistive devices- canes, walkers, wheelchairs
- Already receiving care at home, in assisted living, or nursing home
For more information about LTCI, visit:
National Clearing House for Long Term Care Information http://www.longtermcare.gov/LTC/Main_Site/index.aspx
National Association of Insurance Commissioners
http://www.naic.org
Federal Long-Term Care Insurance Program
www.ltcfeds.com
Home Helpers accepts Long-Term Care Insurance. We work closely with you and your insurance company to help cover some of the costs of home care. For more information about Home Helpers, click HERE.
Posted by Lauren Batalka on Mon, Oct 17, 2011
It seems there are more and more support groups popping up. Support groups are a sign of the times and a product of modern life- for people dealing with abuse, addiction-and more so for family caregivers. Today, more than 29% of the U.S. population is providing care for a loved one, creating a need for a caregiver support system.
You may be wondering how a support group will benefit you. There are a few questions you should ask before joining a support group.
Why a support group?
A support group provides:
- A non-judgmental environment to share your concerns, worries, challenges and triumphs.
- Overall support and the assurance that you are not alone.
- Advice so you know what is in store.
- Coping mechanisms.
- Advice and ideas when dealing with your loved one.
- A social outlet to meet new friends.
What kind of support groups are out there?
Caregiver Groups: focusing on the caregiver specifically, founded on the shared experience that comes from caring for a loved one. Caregivers have a chance to focus on their own needs, rather than just the needs or condition of the care recipient.
Condition-Specific Groups: focusing on the specific disease or condition. These groups are typically organized by a healthcare structure or an organization, such as the Alzheimer’s Association or the ALS Association. The group is usually organized by one group, or sub-groups such as patients, family members, or a combination of both. They’re often excellent with providing resources and up-to-date information.
Relationship-Oriented Groups: focusing on the relationship of the caregiver to the care recipient. Often, the group will focus on the needs of children, Adult Children caring for aging parents, or spouses of the care recipients.
On-line Groups- focused on providing support and information for those who cannot leave the home environment. These groups can have world-wide participants.
You may want to visit a few groups before deciding on which group you would like to attend regularly. Different groups have different dynamics. Be sure that you are comfortable with the group members and the group facilitator. You may want to visit a group more than once before making a decision. Often, as a new member, you may be a little overwhelmed to contribute or get anything out of the first meeting.
Most importantly, take time to take care of yourself. Being a caregiver is perhaps the most difficult job out there.
For more information about Home Helpers, please visit our website, www.HomeHelpersPhilly.com
Posted by Lauren Batalka on Fri, Sep 16, 2011
If you are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s or dementia, you may find it increasingly difficult to keep up with their personal hygiene. One of the biggest areas of concern that our clients’ loved ones have is the challenge of bathing.
Jumping in the shower may seem routine to you, but for someone with dementia, the experience can be quite the opposite. It’s very common for people with dementia to forget about, or even lose interest in bathing and changing their clothes. Understanding the cause may better help you determine your approach:
Lack Of Privacy
Many seniors were raised to think that washing and dressing should be intimate, private activities. Some have never dressed or undressed in front of others, which may lead to embarrassment or humiliation. They may refuse to change or bathe in front of others so they can hide incontinence issues.
- Pull down blinds, cover mirrors, and make sure the door is closed for added privacy.
- Approach the person with understanding and reassurance.
- Place a towel over the genitals and simply lift for washing if the person is uncomfortable with nudity.
- After washing, position towels over the person's lap and on the back of the wet shower chair for comfort and dignity.
- Keep them covered while you dress their top half first.
Environment
Remember that with dementia, your loved one’s depth perceptions may change, making them feel uncomfortable in small, dark places.
- Make sure that the bathroom is warm, well-lit, and inviting.
- Soft music may help make the environment more relaxing.
- Remove unnecessary clutter. Multiple bottles of shampoos and conditioners may be confusing.
- Keep water at a consistent, comfortable temperature.
- The sensation of water hitting your loved one in the shower may be perceived as painful. Try using a handheld shower wand.
- Spraying the head first can be frightening and cause an aggressive protective response. Start by showering the legs and move upwards to the chest and back.
- Try separating hair washing from bathing. Some people with dementia associate bathing with having their hair washed and become upset because water being poured over their head frightens them.
Routine
Remember that your loved one might not bathe as much as you do, nor do they need to. As people age, the body produces less oil, eliminating the need to shower every day. It is important that you do not impose your views about how often your loved one should bathe.
- Try to match your loved one’s bathing routine before the onset of dementia. If they always showered in the evening, set up an evening bathing schedule.
- Consider the time of day when your loved one is most relaxed and not exhausted.
Tasks are too complicated or confusing
Personal care (bathing, dressing, oral care) can be very confusing and complex with all of the steps involved.
- Break down each task into simple steps, while explaining each step. Use simple, respectful language.
- Try offering the person limited choices.
- Let your loved one feel the water before getting into the shower. Saying things like “The water feels nice” or “This feels so good”, can be reassuring and calming.
- Encourage your loved one to do as much as possible.
- Lay out the soap, washcloth, towel and clean clothes in a sequence so your loved one can use them as needed.
Always remember that patience is key. If your loved one shows signs of agitation, take some time to step back and regroup. Move onto another activity for a few minutes, then try again. If all else fails, sponge baths can be an option.
For help and information, contact the Alzheimer’s Association.
Home Helpers’ caregivers are trained and experience with Alzheimer’s and dementia. If you feel that you can no longer care for your loved one on your own, click HERE to learn how we can help.
Posted by Lauren Batalka on Fri, Sep 09, 2011
We often have clients who have adult children living in different a state, making care difficult. Long distance caregivers are defined as caregivers who provide care for a loved one who lives more than an hour away. A growing number of adult children are discovering just how hard it is to try to ensure the welfare of aging parents who live hundreds, sometimes thousands, of miles away. We’re here to take some of the worry out of long distance caregiving. Here are some helpful tips for long distance caregivers:
Organize Yourself
Most people who live away from their aging parents are able to make a few visits each year. During your visits remember to:
Keep a journal and make a list of the following important information:
Medical
- Medical records.
- Notes on their condition.
- A list of medications they take.
- Names and phone numbers of all doctors.
- Name and phone number of their pharmacy.
Insurance
- A list of insurance policies, the carriers and account numbers.
Utilities
- Company names and phone numbers for all utilities, including electric, phone, cable and Internet.
Financial
- A list of all assets and debts (include dollar values).
- Yearly or monthly income.
- Yearly or monthly expenses.
- A statement of net worth.
- Information on bank accounts, other financial holdings and credit cards.
Legal
- Relevant legal documents your loved one has or wants to create (i.e. wills, advance directives, trusts, powers of attorney).
- Location of important documents (i.e. birth certificates, deed to home).
- Social Security numbers.
*It’s a good idea to make a copy of your list and give it to a trusted relative or friend who lives near your loved one.
Make sure that you discuss and understand your loved one’s wishes about legal and financial matters. Be sure to have a copy of all important documents. It’s a wise idea to give a copy to the physician and a friend or neighbor. Have a copy at your loved one’s house in an easily accessible place.
- Will - the elder decides how to disperse assets after death
- Power of attorney - gives a caregiver the authority to act on behalf of the older person
- Trust: estate-planning document allows the elder to transfer assets and avoid probate and other legal problems
- Joint ownership: makes it easier to gain access to the elder's finances
- Representative payee: A caregiver receives government checks for an older person unable to manage money
- Medigap insurance: pays portion of medical bills not covered by Medicare
During visits
You may live far away from your loved one, but hopefully you will have opportunities for visits throughout the year. During your visits, be sure to:
- Schedule appointments. If possible, attend appointments during your visit.
- Go through prescriptions to make sure nothing is expired and they are being taken properly.
- Refill prescriptions.
- Look in the refrigerator and pantry for expired food. Make sure your loved one is eating properly.
- Make a list of household items that need to be repaired or replaced. If possible, buy or fix the items during your visit.
- Look for safety hazards such as loose rugs, loose handrails, and poor lighting.
You may start to realize that more help is needed on a regular basis. Think about your parent’s daily needs and whether they are still being adequately met. Are they:
- Socializing with friends and other relatives?
- Attending religious services or other regular events?
- Keeping up with chores or housekeeping?
- Maintaining their personal appearance and hygiene?
- Eating well with a variety of foods in the house?
- Opening and responding to correspondence from insurers, banks or others?
- Paying bills and balancing the checkbook?
- Scheduling and getting to doctor appointments or other important visits?
- Getting out to the store or recreational activities?
- Maintaining the home?
- Taking medication as directed?
If you find that your loved one needs more help, look into bringing in outside help, such as a caregiving agency. You can find more information HERE .
Posted by Lauren Batalka on Fri, Sep 02, 2011
While most of us have probably lost our keys or misplaced something that was under our nose the whole time, a question many people have is, “Is there a reason to be concerned, or might it just be a Senior Moment?”
A challenge for many families is often determining at what point a change in behavior merits consideration, and when to pursue medical attention.
People often make statements such as “Dad’s going nuts,” or “Mom’s lost her mind,” and don’t recognize that treatments may be available to help a loved one. Dementia, depression and delirium are conditions that cause behavior changes, yet are often undiagnosed and untreated.
The incidence of all three conditions increase as people age. If you sense a change in a loved one’s behavior, encourage your loved one to undergo an assessment by his or her physician. To help health care professionals diagnose and treat a medical condition, it can be helpful to keep a journal of unusual behaviors and report any and all symptoms.
Let’s take a look at each of the three conditions:
DEMENTIA is a term that describes disorders that affect the functioning of one’s brain, and it is characterized by mental decline and impairment. Dementia and Alzheimer’s, a degenerative disorder of the brain, is reported to be the most common cause of dementia in older adults. The Alzheimer’s Association reports that “As many as 10% of all people 65 years of age and older have Alzheimer’s. As many as 50% of all people 85 and older have the disease.”
People with Alzheimer’s have dementia; however people with dementia don’t necessarily have Alzheimer’s. For example, people with chronic conditions such as Parkinson’s can have dementia. A common form of dementia is a condition referred to as Multi-Infarct, where blood flow is cut off from a certain part of the brain, resulting in permanent damage and loss of mental capacity.
People with dementia often have trouble with their ability to recall information, solve problems and speak. They may also act strange or seem moody. People with dementia often lose the ability to perform everyday tasks necessary to live independently. Another characteristic is an inability to make decisions or respond to questions.
DEPRESSION refers to a mood disorder that can affect both a person’s mind and body. While many people never seek treatment for depression, those who do often experience improvement over time. While everyone occasionally feels depressed or sad, depression is characterized by intense sadness that lasts for a period of two weeks or longer, and impacts a person’s ability to lead a normal life.
DELIRIUM is a cognitive or mental disorder, not a disease. Delirium appears suddenly, often within hours or days, and may come and go throughout the day. A person who is delirious may appear disoriented, exhibit varying levels of consciousness, have disorganized speech, and an inability to comprehend what’s being sad. Delirium can be frightening as a loved one acts unpredictably, is uncooperative and sometimes acts violently. With delirium, there is typically an underlying cause such as infection (commonly UTI’s in older adults), dehydration, physical illness, head injury, trauma, substance abuse, or a reaction to medications (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, supplements). Once the cause is identified and treatment begins (e.g., changing medications, increasing fluids or treating infections), there is often a quick turn-around.
SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION
If you notice a change in a loved one’s behavior, regardless if the change is sudden or gradual over time, seek medical attention. Health care professionals are likely to complete an assessment to rule out possible causes, make a diagnosis and determine treatment options. People who receive treatment often enjoy a better quality of life.