Compassionate Caregivers Provide Trusted In-Home Care for Seniors

As I write this blog, I am troubled by the regrettable resurgence of COVID-19 cases in Florida. It has only been three months since the novel coronavirus reared its ugly head and forced our communities to shutdown to slow the spread. At that time, the most vulnerable population consisted of seniors, age 65 and older; and most especially, those with underlying health issues.

As the local and state economies reopened, and quarantine-weary residents began emerging from lockdown, many individuals – primarily, younger folks – failed to follow guidelines set-forth by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC]. Images on the news showed few wearing masks and virtually no social distancing at bars and beaches. These behaviors provided the virus plenty of willing “hosts” to infect, resulting in significant spikes in transmission rates and positive tests.

I understand that people want to get back to life, but seniors are still the most vulnerable population to contract, suffer from, and succumb to the coronavirus, and it’s important they understand that it is not just residents in nursing homes and assisted living facilities who fall victim!

Now, more than ever, seniors with physical and mental health conditions should remain safe and healthier in their homes to avoid being contaminated with the virus. As a non-medical, in-home care provider in the Clearwater area for more than ten years, Home Helpers® employs highly-skilled and compassionate caregivers to serve and help protect seniors in need of assistance.

Home Helpers® caregivers are exceptionally-trained to provide many types of services, including but not limited to:

  • Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care
  • Companion Care
  • Homemaker Services
  • Meals & Nutrition
  • Personal Care
  • Recuperative Care
  • Respite Care
  • Support & Stroke Recovery
  • Wake-up/Tuck-in
  • Wellness Calls

The caregivers and staff I employ are the cream of the crop, and it shows in these reviews from Caring.com, an online service for family caregivers exploring trusted in-home care for seniors. The Caring.com website also provides information about reputable area assisted living facilities, nursing homes, and memory care centers, when living at home is no longer an option for elderly loved ones.

Earlier this year, we were, once again, chosen as a “Provider of Choice,” thanks to feedback from our clients, and many wonderful, 5-star online reviews. It is really quite humbling to know our clients and their family members have taken time out of their days to express thanks and share their personal experiences about working with Home Helpers® caregivers. These awesome sentiments equate to much-needed and welcome accolades for those who often perform thankless work.

I invite you to read a few of the 5-star reviews Home Helpers® Clearwater has received from our clients and their family members:

Home Helpers provided exceptional service to my sister. Before moving to an assisted living community, a caregiver would come to her home and help with a variety of activities. The caregiver was always on time and was very professional. She was treated with compassion and constant attention. If there were any changes in her care, these would be done promptly. Home Helpers would be an asset to anyone would require assistance. I highly recommend the services of Home Helpers.

Nance S

She cleaned the bathroom and kitchen floors. She did things for us I couldn’t do myself. My caregivers have been very friendly.

Dee & Cal M

I think they saved her life. They are there. She was released from the hospital by herself with dementia. She got the care she needed and food. She was going around the neighborhood begging for food before. I like their responsiveness. If there is ever an issue, they are quick to respond.

Sue A

There are certain things I just can’t do, and they help with that. They do an excellent job of matching a helper to myself and my needs. If the person can’t be here, they will make sure I will have someone.

Maris A

I don’t know how they could be better. They help me get dressed and do my exercises. They do all the good stuff that is a pain that I don’t want to do. They come in and make sure I do it. The two people have done an excellent job. They will accommodate us when we need to change the time. They have been very good.

Tom B

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE!!! Our family LOVES this company! They respond quickly to all phone calls and requests! We have LOVED each caregiver that has been sent to our home! We would not have been able to keep my in-laws in our home as long as we did without HH help! Thank you HH!!!

Jiff M

I have peace of mind knowing there are caring people there to help my mom. They go above and beyond with their care. I really appreciate how they check on mom during bad weather, etc. to make sure she is OK and doesn’t need help. I also greatly appreciate the emails and phone calls with progress reports on my mom’s condition.

Kathy C

The caregivers keep her company and make sure she is okay during the day. They provide very good care. They are efficient and responsive.

Mike C

It lifts a lot for me as I work full-time, my mom is able to live in her house. They seem to be genuine.

Earl H

It makes my daily life easier. That is a big difference to a 70 year-old man who has never done this before. We only use one caregiver from them, but she is quite timely and we can depend on her.

Reggie W

Without them she wouldn’t be there. They are caring, compassionate people, well trained, and reliable.

Dan R

They are giving me excellent care after I have just gotten out of the hospital. I like the people that they send over.

Fred I

Home Helpers provides great people, great service, and they are a great resource. They seem to always be there when you need them and have a true passion for what they are doing.

John B

Compassionate, caring and well-qualified staff to attend to your loved ones.Dependable and efficient individuals who are well-trained.

Jane O

If you are concerned about COVID-19, I understand. Please read more about the specialized training our staff has received and Home Helpers® official COVID-19 response to this public health crisis. Rest assured, a compassionate Home Helpers® caregiver can help you or your senior loved one stay healthier at home. I am available to schedule a FREE Consultation, at your convenience, to assess specific needs, and find the perfect caregiver match! Call me today for more information (727) 240-3059

We, at Home Helpers® Clearwater, are honored to have received the Home Care Pulse – Best of Home Care® Provider of Choice Award for 2017, 2018, 2019 & 2020. We proudly serve male and female seniors in Clearwater, Dunedin, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, Tarpon Springs, Holiday, New Port Richey, Trinity, Port Richey, Hudson and surrounding areas. Home Helpers®…we are Making Life Easier℠

Caring.com

Facebook

Guidance for Caregivers to Seniors with Alzheimer’s and Dementia During COVID-19

As the number of coronavirus cases and deaths continue to rise in Florida, it is important to remember that seniors continue to be the most vulnerable, even though more young people are contracting the disease. Have you considered how caring for seniors with Alzheimer’s Disease and dementia during COVID-19 might present a variety of issues?

As if caregivers don’t have enough concerns when helping aging adults with cognitive impairment, when providing assistance to seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia during COVID-19, there are special challenges to consider.

Florida’s Department of Elder Affairs published an article that explains the difficulties caregivers experience as they attempt to protect elders with memory impairments.

“When providing daily care to a person with Alzheimer’s or dementia, caregivers face special challenges. COVID-19 may present additional concerns because dementia-related behaviors, increased age, and common health conditions may create additional needs,” the article states.

Caregivers to Alzheimer’s and dementia patients often provide personal care to promote good hygiene and cleanliness. Washing hands is a simple task that the majority of Americans are doing much more frequently now. However, seniors with memory issues may forget to wash their hands regularly, much less, wash them for 20 seconds!

It is important caregivers remind those in their charge to wash their hands more often, even if the senior doesn’t understand why. Written reminders in the kitchen and bathroom can help prompt patients with cognitive impairment to remember to wash their hands for 20 seconds.

Hand sanitizer is another relatively simple way to “wash” hands when soap and water is not readily available. “Alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol can be a quick alternative to hand-washing, if the person with dementia cannot get to a sink or wash his/her hands easily.”

Family members and/or primary caregivers should also consider exploring options for obtaining longer-term prescriptions from the pharmacy to reduce trips. Home Helpers® caregivers provide homemaking services and gladly pick-up prescriptions and run errands, like grocery shopping, for seniors in their care. The point is, the less frequently seniors with cognitive impairments are exposed to the public, the less likely they will be exposed to the coronavirus.

If someone with dementia was accustomed to visiting adult daycare centers, senior centers or support groups, these should be avoided or cancelled entirely. In as much as social engagement is important to seniors – especially those with mental conditions – it is too unsafe, because social distancing is not something easily explained or followed.

It’s a good idea to keep a contingency plan in place should the primary caregiver become ill. I employ a team of caregivers at Home Helpers, who are skillfully-trained, ready, willing and able to assist seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia, 24/7/365.

If you have a senior loved one in an assisted living facility or a nursing home, “The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid have provided guidance to facilities on infection control and prevention of COVID-19 in nursing homes. This guidance is for the health and safety of residents, and it can be helpful for families to know what to expect based on local situations.”

Please make sure you contact the facility where your loved one resides and inquire about the actual procedures they have in place and practice to minimize their COVID risk.

Although, Florida’s Division of Emergency Management has an order limiting most visits to nursing homes and assisted living facilities to prevent the spread of COVID-19, some exceptions for visitations can be made, but you must check with the facility and adhere to their screening and documentation process.

If visitation is not allowed, ask the facility how you can have contact with your family member? Options include telephone calls, video chats, or even emails to check in. If your family member is unable to engage in calls or video chats, ask the facility how you can keep in touch with staff members for updates about your loved one.

At the risk of sounding redundant, these guidelines from the CDC and Florida’s Department of Elder Affairs will help caregivers – and the seniors with Alzheimer’s and dementia in their charge – stay healthy at home:

  • Pay attention to any fever, flu, or pneumonia-like symptoms and report them to a medical professional immediately.
  • Follow current guidance and instruction from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding COVID-19.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Caregivers and family members should stay home when sick.
  • Always cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash; or cough/sneeze into the crook of your arm.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
  • Always wash hands with soap and water if your hands are visibly dirty

If you are concerned about your senior loved one and their risk of contracting COVID-19, my team and I understand. Please read more about the specialized training our staff has received and Home Helpers® official COVID-19 response to this public health crisis. Rest assured, a compassionate Home Helpers® caregiver can help your senior loved one with Alzheimer ’s disease or dementia stay healthier at home. I am available to schedule a FREE Consultation, at your convenience, to assess specific needs, and find the best, highly-trained caregiver to safely assist. Call me today for more information: 727.942.2539.

We, at Home Helpers® Clearwater, are honored to have received the Home Care Pulse – Best of Home Care® Provider of Choice Award for 2017, 2018, 2019 & 2020. We proudly serve male and female seniors in Clearwater, Dunedin, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, Tarpon Springs, Holiday, New Port Richey, Trinity, Port Richey, Hudson and surrounding areas. Home Helpers®…we are Making Life Easier℠

Source:

Department of Elder Affairs, State of Florida

Power of 5 Helps Caregivers and Seniors Protect Against COVID-19

Florida continues to set records for positive COVID-19 tests and deaths, which is not something about which citizens should feel at all proud. As an in-home care provider to seniors, I am quite concerned with the rising statistics, even though the median age for positive tests has dropped to 40.

This, by no means, indicates seniors are no longer at risk of contracting coronavirus. On the contrary, it clearly demonstrates how quickly this deadly contagion can spread among all ages, without the onset of symptoms, and no one is completely immune.

In a recent report from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention [CDC], it states, “As you get older, your risk for severe illness from COVID-19 increases. For example, people in their 50s are at higher risk for severe illness than people in their 40s. Similarly, people in their 60s or 70s are, in general, at higher risk for severe illness than people in their 50s. The greatest risk for severe illness from COVID-19 is among those aged 85 or older.”

The report continued, “There are also other factors that can increase your risk for severe illness, such as having underlying medical conditions. By understanding the factors that put you at an increased risk, you can make decisions about what kind of precautions to take in your daily life.”

Seniors, age 65 and up, must remain diligent about staying safer at home, practicing social distancing, washing their hands, and wearing masks in public, or when social distancing is impossible.

Home Care Association of America recommends caregivers and seniors, alike, follow the Power of 5. The Power of 5 campaign was designed to help caregivers and seniors stay healthy and safe from COVID-19. The Power of 5 includes:

  • Washing hands
  • Disinfecting surfaces
  • Checking for fever
  • Distancing, if possible
  • Checking-in often

These may not be easy instructions to follow, especially when homebound seniors contend with ambulatory issues and underlying health conditions that prevent them from performing general activities of daily living. This is when a highly-skilled, compassionate, in-home caregiver to seniors can make living in this unprecedented public health crisis much easier!

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, my Home Helpers® caregivers are exceptionally-trained to provide many types of services, including, but not limited to:

  • Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care
  • Companion Care
  • Homemaker Services
  • Meals & Nutrition
  • Personal Care
  • Recuperative Care
  • Respite Care
  • Support & Stroke Recovery
  • Wake-up/Tuck-in
  • Wellness Calls

For seniors, there are few things more important than being able to live independently in their own homes, or maybe in an assisted living community, to enjoy their retirement and twilight years. In as much as COVID has not extinguished this desire, it has certainly altered everyone’s current reality.

Considering how hard residents and staff at assisted living facilities and nursing homes have been hit by the novel coronavirus in Florida and nationwide, moving to one of these places may not be the most viable option.

Conscientious, compassionate caregivers can assist in many ways to keep you or your senior loved one happy, healthy, safe and as independent as possible at home.

Caregivers provide companion care to seniors to keep them company when they live alone or feel isolated, especially when family and friends live far away, or they must keep their distance to keep them safe. Caregivers strive to keep seniors engaged in meaningful conversations; ensure they are entertained with games, cards, crafts, or whatever suits them; and monitor changes in their emotional, mental and physical health.

Caregivers manage homemaker services like light housework, like disinfecting common surfaces; laundry; nutritious meal planning and meal preparation; as well as grocery shopping, which may be too difficult for seniors to manage alone, especially due to restrictions – or no restrictions, as the case may be – because of coronavirus. Going into public is a much different animal than it was only a few months ago. It is definitely more dangerous these days, thanks to COVID.

Caregivers assist with transportation when illness or disability prevents one from driving. Seniors can remain independent without worrying how they will be able to manage personal errands, or missing important doctor appointments. Caregivers are also able to provide guidance to seniors regarding the “new normals” associated with visiting doctors, dentists, salons, etc.

Caregivers provide respite care, so family caregivers can take the time needed for themselves and their own family members. Caregivers are prompt with medication reminders; and thorough when assisting with personal care, like hand-washing, bathing, teeth/denture brushing, dressing and more.

I know I sound like a broken record, but as acclaimed motivational speaker, Zig Ziglar, said, “Repetition is the mother of learning, the father of action, which makes it the architect of accomplishment,” and I don’t think the coronavirus is a topic we can discuss or repeat enough, at this given point in time, especially if it concerns your mother, father, family member, neighbor or friend. We all must be participating “architects of accomplishment” when it comes to coronavirus.

If you are concerned about COVID-19, and the impact it could make on you or a loved one, I understand. You can learn more about the specialized training our staff has received at Home Helpers® official COVID-19 response.

Rest assured, I employ compassionate Home Helpers® caregivers who can help you or your senior loved one stay physically and mentally healthier and more independent at home. I am happy to schedule a FREE Consultation, at your convenience, to assess specific needs, and find the perfect caregiver to help.

We, at Home Helpers® Clearwater, are honored to have received the Home Care Pulse – Best of Home Care® Provider of Choice Award for 2017, 2018, 2019 & 2020. We proudly serve male and female seniors in Clearwater, Dunedin, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, Tarpon Springs, Holiday, New Port Richey, Trinity, Port Richey, Hudson and surrounding areas. Home Helpers®…we are Making Life Easier℠ 727.942.2539

Sources:

CDC

Home Care Association of America

Booktrust.com

Seniors Can Survive COVID-19 with Help, Hope and Support

I don’t mean to sound like the bearer of bad news all the time, but most of what we hear in the local and national media is gloom and doom, in terms of the coronavirus.

Contracting COVID-19 does not automatically mean a death sentence, though. There are many success stories of seniors who survive this life-threatening virus, about which there are still so many unknowns.

A special story on CBS This Morning clearly demonstrates the significant role of hope and support during COVID-19 recovery.

  1. A 64-year-old New York grandfather and retired assistant principal recovers after 128 days in a Manhattan hospital and 51 days on a ventilator. “Miracle Larry” Kelly cried tears of joy after being discharged from the hospital. Through his tears, Larry said, “It’s overwhelming. My wife, she saved my life. She wouldn’t let them pull the plug. Thank you, Honey.” His declaration to fight before being intubated also played a role in his recovery. Dr Tara Narula explained that in as much as science, medicine and medical teams play substantial roles in a patient’s recovery, hope and support are two things that must be recognized, as well. “Never take away hope from a patient, and this family never took away hope from Larry,” Dr Narula said.

Moreover, Interesting Engineering published an article in July that shares the stories of more than 17 of the oldest people around the world who have beaten the coronavirus. In my effort to provide hope and support for seniors suffering from COVID-19, I’d like to share a few of these survival success stories.

  1. A 79-year-old man in Italy recovered from coronavirus after an experimental drug application. Remdesivir, a drug used to treat Ebola, has widely been used experimentally on COVID patients. “Perhaps one of the most impressive cases to have been cured by the drug is that of a 79-year-old Italian man who had tested positive and was given the all-clear after taking the drug,” IE reported.
  2. A 90-year-old Seattle woman survived the coronavirus outbreak at Life Care Center, where 62% of 130 elderly patients tested positive and a quarter died. The article said, “Geneva Wood, the 90-year-old resident who survived, shows that, despite the fact that health officials say the elderly are more vulnerable, people of any age can recover from COVID-19. Even more impressively, Wood was recovering from a stroke when she was diagnosed with the disease.”
  3. A 94-year-old ex-nurse in the United Kingdom recovered. Joy, a great-grandmother and retired nurse. Joy said “she was ‘absolutely overjoyed’ and was impressed at the hospital for ‘helping so many people.’ As in many countries worldwide, the UK is currently working hard to provide enough intensive care beds for the surge of patients it is seeing,” the article stated.
  4. A 95-year Italian grandmother recovers in midst of national COVID crisis. As Italy’s coronavirus stats kept mounting, “Alma Clara Corsini was likely the oldest woman in Italy to recover from the coronavirus at the time of discharge. As Gazzetta Di Modena reports, Corsinig recovered without antiviral therapy, the coronavirus treatment used in the majority of cases worldwide, as she showed few symptoms.”
  5. A 95-year-old war veteran beats the odds and the disease. William Kelly, a 95-year-old veteran of WWII, who also lived through the Great Depression, said, “The biggest support in his fight, in which he faced some tough moments, was his family: ‘I had two or three pretty tough nights and evenings where I had problems with my lower [body], my legs, and my back — difficulty getting rest — because it was very uncomfortable trying to sleep. Other than that, though, you work your way through it. Do as you’re told. And I got some good help here,’ Kelly told ABC News.”
  6. A 101-year-old Wuhan patient recovered in one week. “Ward matron Li Lai said that Mr. Dai was worried about his wife, 92, who was alone at home. As Li Lai explained, the pensioner had focused on getting ‘better soon so he could go home and take care of her.’”
  7. A US Army veteran celebrates his 104th birthday after recovering from COVID-19. “American World War II veteran, Bill Lapschies, celebrated his 104th birthday with a social distancing party… after making a full recovery from COVID-19. The centenarian said of his recovery, ‘I don’t know, it just went away. Sit out here and you can get rid of anything.’ The doctor in charge of Lapschies recovery added that the war veteran didn’t need to be hospitalized due to his long-term care at the veteran’s home.”

Seniors are still the most vulnerable to contract coronavirus, but hopefully, by following the most current recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, they will stay safe and healthy.

A compassionate Home Helpers® caregiver can safely assist seniors staying healthier at home, or seniors recovering from COVID-19. I am available to schedule a FREE Consultation, at your convenience, to assess specific needs, and find a COVID-trained and highly-skilled caregiver to provide non-medical in-home care, 24/7/365. Call me today for more information: 727.942.2539.

We, at Home Helpers® Clearwater, are honored to have received the Home Care Pulse – Best of Home Care® Provider of Choice Award for 2017, 2018, 2019 & 2020. We proudly serve male and female seniors in Clearwater, Dunedin, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, Tarpon Springs, Holiday, New Port Richey, Trinity, Port Richey, Hudson and surrounding areas. Home Helpers®…we are Making Life Easier℠

Source:

CBS This Morning

Interesting Engineering

18 Father’s Day Gift Ideas for Senior Men During COVID-19

Am I the only one who has experienced difficulties finding the perfect, appropriate gifts for the senior men in our lives? Sometimes, it can be a real challenge to determine what they want or need, especially now, when it’s best they/we keep our proper social distance to prevent the spread of coronavirus to our most vulnerable older population.

Fortunately, Google has helped take the frustration out of finding great gift ideas, by providing excellent resources that have lots of suggestions. Even though Mother’s Day is the most celebrated of parental holidays, Fathers deserve some extra love, too, especially now.

I have searched a number of websites, blogs and articles and found 15 fantastic Father’s Day gift ideas for senior men staying healthy at home during COVID-19.

What guy doesn’t appreciate a great gadget? My Smart Gadgets has a long list of tech and non-tech options that, for senior men, will “help make staying home a little easier”.

  • FitTrack is a tech device that measures what’s going on inside the body from the comfort of home. The website states, “FitTrack is a revolutionary home wellness technology which monitors 17 key health insights and allowing you to measure, track, and trend your health data in real time…(like) body fat percentage, muscle and bone mass, hydration levels and more important information that can help (him) make smarter decisions about (his) health.”
  • PlayBeatz premium Bluetooth wireless headphones make a great gift for senior men who may have hearing impairments. They are affordable and comparable to more expensive premium brands on the market, with the same excellent voice and sound quality. Their non-slip design keeps them in place, making them perfect for hands-free phone calls, working in the garden, or simply working-out.
  • Peeps Carbon Technology is NASA’s most popular answer to cleaning dirty glasses. “Peeps revolutionary and patented invisible carbon formula safely and easily cleans your glasses, leaving your lenses as clean as the day you got them. Peeps utilize soft carbon microfiber pads eliminate oil and fingerprints instead of smearing like cloths and sprays,” the website states. This handy gadget can be used more 500 times, and cleans lenses four times faster than the traditional spray and cloth.
  • NeckRelax makes a terrific gift for senior men who suffer with neck pain. It does not have any vibrating parts, but instead uses three modality settings from which to choose: Infrared heat to improve circulation; Therapeutic ultrasound that uses high-frequency vibrations that promote healing; and Electro-Frequency Stimulation Massage Therapy [EFSMT], or muscle stim, that uses electrodes to target specific areas of pain.
  • A Photostick is a great way to share family photos with a senior family member who uses a computer. Save a variety of your family photos that they can enjoy while not being able to see you in person. Many times, photos get snapped from our Smartphones, and they don’t get seen unless they are posted to social media. If Grandpa isn’t on the ‘Gram or Facebook, he probably hasn’t seen them!
  • The Dodow is the perfect option for seniors who experience difficulties sleeping or staying asleep. Prescription and over-the-counter medications are not always the best options, especially when a number of meds are being taken each day. “Dodow is a metronome-light scientifically designed to block out overactive thought patterns and lull you into a deep peaceful sleep – fast.Combining yoga, meditation, and behavioral therapy, Dodow is the safe way for ANYONE to effortlessly fall asleep…AND stay asleep.”
  • BlauxAC may be the perfect gadget for senior men in Florida. This three-speed device is a unique way to stay cool, no matter where you are! “The Blaux wearable AC (gadget) blows a constant stream of clean, refreshing air at you while you wear it. The big lithium internal battery has enough juice to work for up to 30 hours on a single charge!” This would make a great gift for seniors who enjoy walking, jogging, gardening, or any outdoor activity.
  • Kailo is a “futuristic patch” designed using “nanotech” to help relieve pain. If your senior loved one experiences chronic headaches or pain in his joints, back, neck or practically anywhere, Kailo can be placed “anywhere between the pain and the brain” to provide pain relief. The unique thing about this reusable device is, “Kailo is a non-invasive patch that’s embedded with billions of tiny nanocapacitors. Kailo interacts with the body’s electrical system. Each Kailo contains nano capacitors that work as a bio antenna, assisting the body in clear communication to turn down the volume on your pain.”
  • Sterilize-X is an ideal gift option for anyone, in the wake of the coronavirus. This portable, disinfection lamp uses UV-C light technology to eliminate viruses, bacteria and other microorganisms from the air and on surfaces wherever it is placed. It is rechargeable and easy to use. Simply turn it on and leave the room. There is no residue or secondary pollution concerns with Sterilize-X.
  • Drone X Pro is for senior men with an adventurous spirit! This drone great for beginners, because it is foldable, lightweight and easy to use. It works independently and follows instructions like “follow me” or “focus on me.” It moves independently and can fly on its own using predetermined settings and directions.

The Business Insider website shared more common ideas for Father’s Day gifts during the coronavirus that can be purchased online and delivered straight to his door with little or no contact. These include:

  • Flowers or Houseplants brighten anyone’s day!
  • Books and Journals are always a safe choice for avid readers and writers, as are Kindles or other eReaders. Also, consider the gift of a subscription, for unlimited access to reading material on any iOS device.
  • Picture Frames with a current photo of your family will be something he will cherish for life!
  • Online Classes will provide hours of engagement and entertainment for the male senior artists, musicians or consummate learners you love!
  • Puzzles have, once again, become a popular way to pass the time when seniors are bored at home. The Business Insider suggests, “There are few greater feelings than putting the final pieces of a puzzle together. You can order the same puzzle and complete it over a video call, race to see who finishes first, or frame the puzzle once completed as a reminder of each other.”
  • Coloring Books have become increasingly more accepted by adults as a means of passing time and reducing anxiety.
  • Blankets or Throws may simulate a big hug to a senor loved one who seems to stay cold, due to poor circulation or side effects from some medications.
  • Video Messages from the family and from the heart can be viewed over and over again, and will warm the heart and soul of your senior loved one on Father’s Day, or any day. Kick it up a notch with Cameo, which uses professional actors, athletes and celebrities to create custom videos for your loved ones. “This unique concept is a fun and personalized way to check in on a…” senior loved one, and will certainly make his Father’s Day!

If you don’t live nearby and your Father is a senior living alone in the Clearwater area, Home Helpers® provides non-medical in-home care and assistance, and our compassionate caregivers are ready, willing and able to help 24/7/365. I gladly offer a safe, FREE Consultation, so I can assess his needs and match the perfect caregiver to help during this challenging time. I appreciate the trust placed in Home Helpers®, and my team and I ready, willing and able to your Dad, or any of your senior loved ones who may need assistance.For any questions, please call (727) 240-3059.

We, at Home Helpers® Clearwater, are honored to have received the Home Care Pulse – Best of Home Care®Provider of Choice Award for 2017, 2018, 2019 & 2020. We proudly serve male and female seniors in Clearwater, Dunedin, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, Tarpon Springs, Holiday, New Port Richey, Trinity, Port Richey, Hudson and surrounding areas. Home Helpers®…we are Making Life Easier℠

Sources:

My Smart Gadgets

Business Insider

Categories

10 Ways Seniors Can Stay Cool and Prevent Hyperthermia

Dr. Marshall L. Cook said it best in his book, Growing Old is Not for Sissies, because aging takes a toll on men and women over the age of 65, physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.

From a physical standpoint, seniors living in Florida must exercise an abundance of caution in the summer months, thanks to our consistently hot, humid, tropical climate. I mean, they don’t call Florida the Sunshine State for nothing!

One of the resources I regularly reference for timely information pertaining to seniors is DailyCaring. In a recent publication, the author said, “36% of heat-related deaths in the United States were among people over age 65.”

It’s difficult for older bodies to recognize changes in temperature and adjust to these changes, so older individuals may not even notice they are becoming too hot, until symptoms arise. If seniors become too hot, hyperthermia –body temperature rises greatly above normal – can result in dire consequences.

The symptoms of hyperthermia are:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Confusion, agitation, or disorientation
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle cramps
  • Hot, dry skin that is flushed but not sweaty
  • Fever
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Rapid heart beat
  • Hallucinations
  • Vomiting

Moreover, certain medications, like beta blockers prescribed for high blood pressure, can complicate matters, and delay or inhibit the body’s ability to respond to heat.

The National Institute on Health [NIH] explained, “As we age, our ability to adequately respond to summer heat can become a serious problem. … Hyperthermia can include heat stroke, heat edema (swelling in your ankles and feet when you get hot), heat syncope (sudden dizziness after exercising in the heat), heat cramps and heat exhaustion.”

The NIH lists several factors that could increase your risk of experiencing heat-related conditions:

  • Age-related changes to the skin, such as poor blood circulation and inefficient sweat glands
  • Heart, lung and kidney diseases, as well as any illness that causes general weakness or fever
  • High blood pressure or other conditions that require changes in diet, such as salt-restricted diets
  • Reduced sweating, caused by medications such as diuretics, sedatives, tranquilizers, and certain heart and blood pressure drugs
  • Taking several drugs for various conditions
  • Being substantially overweight or underweight
  • Drinking alcoholic beverages
  • Being dehydrated

Since risk factors exist in most seniors, and their vulnerability to heat-related conditions is a given, a discussion is warranted about 10 ways seniors can stay cool this summer to prevent hyperthermia:

  • STAY HYDRATED! Drink plenty of water throughout the day, not just when thirst strikes, and avoid alcohol and caffeine. Remember, if your urine is dark yellow, you’re probably not drinking enough liquids.
  • Eat cooling snacks. Homemade or store-bought popsicles are a tasty way to stay cool and hydrated. Use cupcake liners to catch drips).
  • Eat light, cold meals. Cold chicken and numerous varieties of salad are lighter and more nutritious than a pot roast.
  • Use cool towels. Apply a cool cloth on the back of the neck, and rinse periodically to improve cooling.
  • Soak your feet. Sit with feet in a pan of cool water. That’s cool, not cold water!
  • Bathe. No need for a cold shower, but prep water to be just below your body temperature and take a warm shower, immersion or sponge bath.
  • Keep home cool. Use the air conditioner for cool comfort at home, and close window shades or blinds to block the hot sun rays.
  • Wear lightweight clothes. Loose, light-colored clothing won’t absorb so much heat, and if worn in layers, they can be added or removed for personal comfort.
  • Visit cool locations. When it is safe for seniors to go out, malls, libraries, and coffee shops offer cool respite from scorching heat.
  • Plan around peak hours. If you plan to exercise or work in the sun, be sure to do it in the cooler part of the day, before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. Take it easy on hot days.

If you notice any of the symptoms listed earlier in this blog, and suspect a senior is suffering from heat exhaustion or heat stroke, provide immediate help by:

  • Calling 911 – Time matters and minutes count!
  • Bringing the person out of the heat and into a shady, air-conditioned, or cooler place, and encouraging them to lie down and elevate their feet.
  • Bringing them fluids such as water and fruit or vegetable juices, if they can swallow properly. NO alcohol or caffeine!
  • Applying a cold, wet cloth to their wrists, neck, armpits and groin.
  • Encouraging the person to shower, bathe or sponge-off with cool water, if it is safe to do so

These suggestions may prove challenging for seniors living alone, so I recommend a highly-skilled caregiver to provide assistance with personal care, to monitor their physical well-being, and companion care to curb feelings of isolation, loneliness and depression that negatively impact mental health. I gladly offer a FREE consultation to assess all needs and match the perfect, most qualified caregiver to help when the heat is on!

We, at Home Helpers® Clearwater, are honored to have received the Home Care Pulse – Best of Home Care® Provider of Choice Award for 2017, 2018, 2019 & 2020. We proudly serve male and female seniors in Clearwater, Dunedin, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, Tarpon Springs, Holiday, New Port Richey, Trinity, Port Richey, Hudson and surrounding areas. Home Helpers®…we are Making Life Easier℠ (727) 240-3059

Source:

DailyCaring

AARP

Technology Helps Seniors Maintain Independence During COVID-19

We’ve all heard the adage, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” but that is merely an old wives’ tale. It may not be easy to teach someone older and set in their ways to try new things, but it’s not out of the realm of possibility that they can learn! Granted, it may not be easy to teach an “old dog new tricks,” but it is possible.

I say this because my 75 year-old Mother is learning to text for the first time, and she is getting better at texting each time she makes the attempt!

Technology can be intimidating to some seniors, but it is, by far, the safest way to stay connected with them during this COVID-19 pandemic. I’ve tried to expose Mom to more technology by showing her ways to see her children and grands through Zoom calls, while she’s staying healthy at home.

Technology can help seniors maintain their independence in the midst of the current coronavirus surge in Florida, by giving them a myriad of options for communicating, staying entertained, shopping for supplies and so much more!

Businesswire published an article in April that caught my attention, because it focused on technology for seniors and how it can help them stay healthy and engaged.

“Studies show social isolation and loneliness are linked to higher risk of cardiovascular disease, anxiety, depression, and a variety of ailments,” says aging expert Lisa Cini. “During this unprecedented time, sheltering-in-place can provide an opportunity to stay connected with our older friends, neighbors and family through technology. Remember, we can help make our aging loved ones remain healthy, happy, and safe while practicing social distancing and quarantine.”

Lisa’s 10 tips for older adults during COVID-19 as published in businesswire include:

  1. Coordinate daily check in times: A phone call or text, Skype, Facetime, Zoom, Loop, WhatsApp, & WeChat are all possibilities. A video call is best to see smiling faces and easier for those with hearing loss. Additionally, group texts are a great way to send funny pictures, videos, and continuous words of encouragement. One helpful device to stay connected is called Loop. The Loop is a portable screen that allows you to privately and securely send photos, videos and do live video chats with family and friends.
  2. Exercise: Wellness devices like Fitbit, Garmin, Apple watch, and Kardia are all great tools to get moving. Arranging 10-minute group exercises, ensures loved ones are moving and keeping the blood flowing which improves brain function, reduces depression and improves the immune system. Notifications can easily be sent to your phone will help you stop worrying and provide an opportunity to nudge them to get moving.
  3. Gaming: Words with Friends, Candy Crush, and Word Cross are as simple as tic-tac-toe or as interactive as building entire cities with Minecraft or experiencing a flight simulator. The internet allows us to create a watch party for favorite TV shows or movies and group texts, video chat or messages on Facebook. Video games not only help with eye hand coordination, memory and mind training but raise endorphin levels to keep the blood flowing and even create a more energized feeling.
  4. Facetime or Zoom Meals: Video chat during meals! Create a virtual “family dining” experience where everyone can share their day, laugh and reconnect. Send ingredients to a family recipe beforehand, and you can virtually cook “together.”
  5. Control moods: Hapbee is a wearable device and Smartphone app that can make you feel happy, calm, sleepy, alert, focused, etc. with the click of a button. Also, the Human Charger introduces light therapy through ear buds to reach the photoreceptors of the brain, which can help those who may have the winter blues, sleep issues, or just want more energy and alertness.
  6. Get a care free companion pet: Hasbro Joy for All companion pets are designed to bring comfort, companionship and fun for older loved ones who may not be able to get out and walk, feed, or care for a real dog or cat. These pets deliver a soothing, joyful experience that inspires smiles, laughter and fond memories.
  7. Engage remote health monitoring devices: Livio AI hearing aid has fall detection and tracks body and brain health in 27 languages. Zibrio’s SmartScale measures movements that indicate risk of falling. MouthLab by Aidar Health monitors more than 10 medical parameters like temperature, respiratory rate, blood pressure, breathing patterns, heart rate, lung function, and more in 30-seconds. Essence Group Fall Detector Radar tracks a person’s position in the home, provide immediate detection of a fall, and effectively alerts healthcare providers. CarePredict assesses day to day movements including sleep, walking, eating, and more. The MedWand handheld device allows users to conduct remote office visits and uses real-time collection of vital sign readings, to accurately monitor medical conditions regardless of location. H2-BP is the world’s smallest and lightest wearable blood pressure monitor.
  8. Navigating the toilet paper shortage? Luxury Class A8 Serenity Bidet Toilet Seat: replaces your normal toilet seat by adding a bidet feature that both washes and blows you dry. Plus, it’s customizable, heated, gets you to the proper height, and includes both a splash guard and a nightlight.
  9. Keep the House Clean: With just the push of a button, iRobot Braava Jet 240 Robot Mop wet-and dry-mops your floors and is tiny enough to get under cabinets, beds, furniture and even around the toilet!
  10. Install an automatic stove shutoff device: Stove Safety from FireAvert provides peace of mind and protection when cooking is forgotten or left unattended. It’s an easy way to prevent a possible fire and save dinner, too.

Like I said in the beginning, it may not be easy to teach every tech aspect to your senior loved ones, but many of these options are very user-friendly, and may not take much time at all for them to achieve success; feel a real sense of accomplishment, joy and independence; while staving off loneliness, isolation and depression.

These tech suggestions may be a challenge for seniors who are on their own with no family members or friends around to help. That’s why I recommend a highly-skilled caregiver with a keen understanding of today’s technological advancements, gadgets and devices to provide guidance. They can also monitor their mental and physical well-being, and provide companion care to curb feelings of isolation, loneliness and depression that negatively impact mental health. I gladly offer a FREE consultation to assess all needs and match the perfect, most qualified caregiver to help with technology and so much more!

We, at Home Helpers® Clearwater, are honored to have received the Home Care Pulse – Best of Home Care® Provider of Choice Award for 2017, 2018, 2019 & 2020. We proudly serve male and female seniors in Clearwater, Dunedin, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, Tarpon Springs, Holiday, New Port Richey, Trinity, Port Richey, Hudson and surrounding areas. Home Helpers®…we are Making Life Easier℠ (727)240-3059.

Source:

businesswire

Categories

Home Helpers® is Leader in Senior In-Home Care in Clearwater

I am very proud that Home Helpers® has gained recognition as a leader in senior in-home care in Clearwater and surrounding areas. I strive to employ the best qualified caregivers who genuinely care about the well-being of others and consistently demonstrate compassion through their words and actions.

I am also immensely proud that for the fourth year in a row, Home Helpers® Clearwater has received the prestigious honor of being named a Best of Home Care® – Provider of Choice. This is extremely special, because it is bestowed upon members of the Home Care Pulse Satisfaction Management Program who have received satisfactory ratings from their clients.

The Home Care Pulse website states, “The Best of Home Care® – Provider of Choice award is based on client satisfaction ratings collected from telephone interviews performed by Home Care Pulse, an independent satisfaction research firm. These home care agencies are best-in-class for providing quality care to their clients. This recognition assures that the agency is trustworthy and has proven their ability to provide outstanding in-home care services.”

To qualify for this annual award, a home care agency must meet the following requirements:

  • Be a Home Care Pulse Certified – Trusted Provider for a minimum of 6 consecutive months.
  • Must have 10% of current clients interviewed by Home Care Pulse each month.
  • Must outperform other home care agencies in their geographic region in areas of client satisfaction.

This is humbling to me, because it means we are doing our jobs and our clients are willing to take time to share their positive experiences about their experiences with our agency and amazing caregivers.

Home Helpers® Clearwater is actively involved in the following associations and partnerships:

  • Home Care Association of America
  • Home Care Association of FL
  • Veterans Care Coordination to assist with providing Veterans Services
  • Care Planning Institute to assist with providing Veterans Services
  • Care Academy for caregiver training
  • Association of Daily Money Managers Association – Professional Daily Money Manager
  • Bold Diamond Winner 2015
  • Corporate Training Site for New Home Helpers Franchisees

As a Certified Senior Advisor and Senior Home Safety Specialist, I actively participate in community organizations and provide resources and assistance for the disabled, seniors and Veterans. Here is my abbreviated resume:

  • Member and Past President of Community Service Council

                Chaired the Outreach Committee and created

                                “Senior Spruce-Up Day”

                                “Senior Photo Day”

                Treasurer – 2017-2019

                Volunteer of the Year 2011

  • Member and current President of Bucks Business Networking
  • Member of Women in Networking

                Meeting Facilitator

                Treasurer for 12 chapters

  • Member of Better Together Network

                Meeting Leader

  • Member of Tarpon Springs Chamber of Commerce 2008- present

                Ambassador

                Chairman of the Board 2014-2016

                Board member 2010 – 2016

                Chair for Fine Arts Festival – 2016              

                Small Business of the year 2015

  • Leadership Pasco – 2013
  • Member of Better Living for Seniors

                Fall Risk Coalition Committee

  • Member of Pasco Aging Network

I don’t share this to boast, but rather to inform you of my qualifications as an in-home care expert and owner of an award-winning, local in-home healthcare agency.

One reason I believe our in-home healthcare agency has been so successful over the years is the high standard that must be met before a caregiver is hired. Your family’s safety is our first priority at Home Helpers®. The professional caregivers I employ are thoroughly vetted, meaning they undergo extensive screenings and background checks, along with continued training and education through Home Helpers University, so they can perform at their best, no matter what the circumstances.

Care-giving is not easy. It requires patience, understanding, compassion, and sometimes physical labor. Not everyone is cut-out to be a caregiver, but those who are blessed to possess compassionate hearts find it easy and rewarding to make an emotional investment when caring for others. Caregivers find the work exceptionally rewarding, and they will be the first to tell you what deep levels of satisfaction they feel when they know they’ve made someone else’s day a little better and brighter just by being there!

If you aspire to be a caregiver for a friend or family member – or for a special someone you’ve never met – I welcome the opportunity to meet you! Simply visit our Caregiver Employment page to get the vetting process started, and you could be on your way to becoming a Home Helpers® caregiver!

If you or a loved one is in search of in-home care, I am happy to offer a FREE Consultation to get to know you and assess your specific needs. Home Helpers® caregivers provide non-medical assistance with personal hygiene, companionship, light housework, grocery shopping, pharmacy pick-ups, meal preparation, transportation assistance, and more.

We, at Home Helpers® Clearwater, are honored to have received the Home Care Pulse – Best of Home Care® Provider of Choice Award for 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020. We proudly serve male and female seniors in Clearwater, Dunedin, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, Tarpon Springs, Holiday, New Port Richey, Trinity, Port Richey, Hudson and surrounding areas. Home Helpers®…we are Making Life Easier℠  

Source:

Home Care Pulse

Categories

9 Ways to Protect Seniors from Coronavirus & Flu

Now that two people in Pinellas County and one person in Pasco County have been diagnosed with COVID-19, otherwise known as coronavirus, and this nasty disease is rearing its ugly head too close to home, I am compelled to address this critical matter sooner rather than later.

The new coronavirus has rapidly spread from its China origins to Florida and 36 other United States, Italy, and well more than 100 additional nations across the globe.

Home Helpers® Clearwater provides in-home care services for seniors. The coronavirus is significantly impacting seniors, most especially those with underlying health conditions. In fact, the deaths that have occurred in Florida attributed to COVID-19, have all been aging adults with health issues.

The Washington Post reports, “Older generations face a potentially life-threatening risk if infected with the novel coronavirus, which has caused deaths of 60-plus-year-olds stretching across the cities of China to the metropolises of Italy and now the United States.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], the coronavirus is a contagious respiratory illness that spreads from person to person.  “The virus is thought to spread mainly between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet) through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It also may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.”

Johns Hopkins Medicine continued that evidence exists that COVID-19 is possibly airborne “meaning that tiny droplets remaining in the air could cause disease in others even after the ill person is no longer near.” This is why avoiding crowds is a good idea.

When someone becomes infected with COVID-19, they may appear asymptomatic for up to 2 weeks before presenting with symptoms of fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue and shortness of breath. In some cases, patients may have vomiting and diarrhea .The symptoms are much like various strains of the flu, which continues to be on the radar for the general population, which is confirmed by Johns Hopkins Medicine.

When symptoms become severe, patients may develop pneumonia in both lungs, experience multi-organ failure and in some cases, death.  The same can be said of influenza.

It has been recommended that seniors stay home as much as possible during this COVID-19 outbreak, especially those with underlying health issues, because they are most vulnerable. When staying home is not possible, here are 9 ways seniors can protect themselves from respiratory illness, like coronavirus and flu, with everyday preventive actions:  

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available.
  • Avoid crowds as much as possible and practice social distancing when in public. Social distancing is staying 6-feet from others whenever possible.
  • Refrain from visiting emergency rooms unless it is absolutely necessary. If you have symptoms of coronavirus, contact your primary care provider first for specific instructions.
  • If you are sick, stay home to prevent the spread of germs to others. Self-quarantine for up to 14 days to prevent spreading the illness.
  • Make sure you have at least 14 days worth of medicine if you do need to self-quarantine.
  • Hire the services of a Home Helpers® caregiver to handle public errands and assist with better personal hygiene.

At this time, there is no cure or vaccine for the coronavirus, although scientists across the globe are scrambling to develop one. That is why exercising an abundance of caution, ramping up personal hygiene efforts and following the guidelines I’ve noted above, are the best ways to protect seniors from contracting coronavirus or the flu, neither of which respond to antibiotic treatment. Fortunately, both conditions may be treated by addressing symptoms, such fever reduction.

My staff and I are carefully monitoring the outbreak and proceeding with all employees’ and clients’ best interests in mind. That means, we have educated our caregivers and clients about the spread of COVID-19, and I have made available all necessary protection, eliminating any possibility for cross-contamination – especially if employees are traveling between a series of clients – including additional changes of clothes.

I will not allow the Home Helpers® caregivers I employ to assist clients diagnosed with COVID-19, to care for other clients who do not have the diagnosis. If/when it becomes necessary, I do have skillfully-trained caregivers who are designated caregivers for any COVID-19 clients.

Caregivers for Home Helpers are educated to screen clients for symptoms of acute respiratory illness (e.g., fever, cough, difficulty breathing), and they are instructed to notify me immediately so I can alert the Pinellas and Pasco County Health Departments.

Rest assured, I have strongly encouraged my employees to stay home when they are ill, without a fear of penalty of any kind, as a precautionary measure for the safety and well-being of our clients and staff.

Since the majority of our clients are seniors with compromised immune systems, the likelihood of them contracting COVID-19 is greatly increased. Because our caregivers are on the front line of caring for seniors with chronic health issues, we are dedicated to providing the best care possible while protecting all parties involved.

If you or a special senior loved one is at increased risk of contracting coronavirus or the flu, has underlying health issues and is unable to get out to run errands, like going to the pharmacy, grocery store or doctor appointments, Home Helpers® compassionate caregivers can provide the necessary assistance.

Additionally, if seniors are forced to stay at home, a caregiver may be the perfect solution to provide companion care to curb feelings of isolation, loneliness and depression. I gladly offer a FREE consultation to assess all needs and match the perfect, most qualified caregiver for you or your loved one.

We, at Home Helpers® Clearwater, are honored to have received the Home Care Pulse – Best of Home Care® Provider of Choice Award for 2017, 2018, 2019 & 2020. We proudly serve male and female seniors in Clearwater, Dunedin, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, Tarpon Springs, Holiday, New Port Richey, Trinity, Port Richey, Hudson and surrounding areas. Home Helpers®…we are Making Life Easier℠ .

Sources:

The Washington Post

CDC

Patch

Categories

13 Activities for Homebound Seniors

Unprecedented. That’s the word being used for the current public health emergency surrounding COVID-19 and the coronavirus outbreak. Americans are being asked – and ordered – to alter their lifestyles by staying home, eliminating public activities, and practicing social distancing. This is especially important for our most vulnerable population, people over age 60, and those with underlying health issues.

Since this mandate includes the fastest growing demographic in America, it troubles me that so many aging adults will be homebound until the coronavirus is under control. That could be months, considering Florida reported 830 new coronavirus cases in a 24-hour period over the weekend.

Regardless of how long this pandemic grips our country, I know from experience that loneliness and social isolation often result in fear, anxiety, and depression among seniors. This not only impacts their mental health, but also physiological health.

These 12 free or low-cost activities for homebound seniors will help keep minds and bodies busy while minimizing boredom, depression, and anxiety. I have consolidated a few of the most popular options with links to the original sources to help spark the best ideas for your situation:

  • Board and Card Games – Yahtzee, Scrabble, Solitaire, Concentration, and Trivial Pursuit are games that can be played alone, or virtually online. “A study published by Dr. Robert Wilson and a team at Rush University Medical Center, tracked almost 1,100 people with an average age of 80, for nearly five years, and found that playing trivia games and other forms of board games helped stave off mental decline by promoting activity changes in the temporal and hippocampus regions of the brain. These are areas where working memory functions,” according to Dana Hinders’ Trivia Games for the Elderly
  • Puzzles – Puzzles are a great way to pass time, and studies have shown improvements in memory when seniors worked on puzzles for as little as 45 minutes a day, twice per week.
  • Brain-Training Computer Games – “A study of 2,800 people over the age of 65, has found that those who did a type of brain-training intended to boost a person’s brain processing speed were 29% less likely to develop dementia over a ten-year period,” says Mallory Locklear, New Scientist.
  • Memory Boxes – Memory boxes are a good way of stimulating and recalling favorite memories. Build a collection of old photos, items reminiscent of work or volunteering, and any objects that mean something and put them in the box to peruse when bored. If someone is especially agitated, looking at these objects may have a calming effect.
  • Old movies – Many of us have old home videos or movies featuring family fun or our favorite performers. Furthermore, there are so many television channels and streaming platforms from which to choose, virtually any movie or classic TV show can be found and binged!
  • Photos – Whether you have boxes of old photos or a SIM card full on your phone, now’s a great time to review them and place them in albums, or sort them into files on the computer. Most people forget about downloading their photos from their phones, so you’re likely to run across many special memories while you’re organizing snapshots.
  • Books – Escape reality by diving into a novel. You probably have a small library from which to choose, so gather a few hardcovers or paperbacks and do some reading. If you have an e-reader, consider a new release. If you’re visually impaired, there are numerous selections of audiobooks that you can listen to and enjoy.
  • Gardening – Seniors are allowed outdoors, as long as social distancing is practiced. Gardening is a fun activity that produces beautiful or delicious results! Additionally, “Gardening provides a change of scene and will also ensure you both get some fresh air and exercise. It may be a good idea for the person to have his or her own patch of garden to dig and plant in. Weeding, trimming lawn edges, sweeping paths, and general tidying in the garden can all be tasks many people with dementia can cope with,” Alzheimer Scotland
  • Exercise – Chair exercises, walking, riding a stationary bike, yoga, dance, Tai Chi, and almost anything that gets the body moving, will help strengthen muscles and improve mood and mental acuity by increasing oxygen and blood flow to the brain.
  • Crafts – Many people love to craft, and crafting can take many different forms. Knitting, needlepoint, painting, stenciling, stringing beads, arranging flowers, or making musical instruments are just a few examples of crafts suitable for seniors.
  • Music – We all have our favorite tunes, musicians, bands, and genres of music. Turn on your iPod and crank up your playlist or ask Alexa to play your faves. For non-techies, turn the radio on, play a CD, a record album, or cassette tape while you’re relaxing, cleaning, playing games, or exercising. Music has a way of soothing the soul!
  • Cook – If you enjoy cooking and baking, cook and bake! There are many Grandmas and Grandpas like mine who were, essentially, culinary geniuses back in the day. Preparing comfort foods that are healthy and nutritious, and baking a sweet treat to enjoy as dessert or a snack can do the mind and body good!
  • Communicate – Reach out to family, friends, and neighbors to see how they’re doing during this crazy time. The recipient of a call, text, email, letter, or card will feel very special and it will be good emotional support for you both! Remember, if you don’t feel well or you have tested positive for coronavirus, do not lick envelopes! Please use self-adhesive types, apply tape or use a cotton swab or sponge to moisten the glue to avoid transferring germs of any kind. If you are tech-savvy, Facetime or Skype with family, friends, and neighbors.

I hope this provides a few fresh ideas to help seniors cope with being homebound during the coronavirus public health emergency.

At Home Helpers® Clearwater, we are like the millions of Americans closely monitoring the COVID-19 virus, and as caregivers, we are taking all precautions suggested by the CDC; following updates from the CDC, Home Care Association of America (HCAOA) and making our home caregivers’ and clients’ health our first priority.

We will remain open and ready to care for the most vulnerable population who are best-suited to stay in their homes. We believe that it is safer to have ONE caregiver visit and provide services, than to be exposed in a community/facility/hospital/rehab with hundreds of residents. 

We will continue to monitor this rapidly-changing situation and provide updates via our Facebook page.

As always, Home Helpers of Clearwater employs professional caregivers who provide in-home care and assistance, including companion care, personal hygiene, light housework, and more. I gladly offer a FREE Consultation to assess your needs, or those of your senior loved one, and I match the perfect caregiver to help with activities of daily living, engage in meaningful conversation, and enhance their overall quality of life during this difficult time. Thank you for continuing to trust Home Helpers®, and we look forward to helping anyone who needs our assistance. 

We, at Home Helpers® Clearwater, are honored to have received the Home Care Pulse – Best of Home Care® Provider of Choice Award for 2017, 2018, 2019 & 2020. We proudly serve male and female seniors in Clearwater, Dunedin, Palm Harbor, Safety Harbor, Tarpon Springs, Holiday, New Port Richey, Trinity, Port Richey, Hudson and surrounding areas. Home Helpers®…we are Making Life Easier℠

Sources:

Trivia Games for the Elderly

New Scientist

Alzheimer Scotland

Categories

© Copyright 2026 H. H. Franchising Systems, Inc, All Rights Reserved.