Visiting Friends and Family Keeps Seniors Young at Heart

It’s a fact that seniors benefit both physically and mentally from spending time with loved ones during the holidays. Just like all of us, we feel young and happy when we’re with the people we love.

Spending time with your senior loved ones isn’t just good for them; it benefits us too! Benefits such as the joy from being together, the pleasure that comes from being reminded that we’re cared for and thought about, are just the beginning.

Did you know there are many studies that show the negative affects of isolation and loneliness on seniors? It’s well documented now that seniors who don’t interact with loved ones enough, especially during the holidays, show signs of memory problems, poor health, depression and even the mortality rate increases. These things can be true no matter how old someone is, but they are far more likely to have a negative impact on our seniors.

What Are the Benefits of Visiting Senior Loved Ones?

Frequent phone calls, visits and communication are super helpful in combatting the effects of loneliness and isolation. Here are some other wonderful benefits!

• Visiting your senior loved ones lets you evaluate their overall well-being.
This is among the best benefit of all—just connecting and making sure they are alright. Check to see if any major changes have happened since your previous visit. Are they still doing well with self-care and hygiene? What about medication management? These are all things that can be assessed during a visit. But the most important thing is to check on their happiness.

• Visits can clue you in to the possibility of elder abuse.
If your senior loved one lives on their own, it can be easy for them to neglect important aspects of their care. Sometimes this can be due to memory problems and other times it can really be from depression. Either way, it should be addressed. If they are in an assisted living facility, check to be sure they are getting the care they need in a timely fashion. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and use your common sense when it comes to the staff and medical team. If your loved one seems nervous answering questions, it could be a sign they are not telling you everything.

• Reminisce during your visits!
Most senior adults love to talk about days gone by, special memories that mean a lot to them, and even about loved ones who have gone on. Bring along photos and scrapbooks to help jar their memories and sing some favorite songs. Seniors who suffer with dementia can benefit greatly from trips down memory lane. It is often when they are at their happiest. It also gives you the chance to listen and learn from their lives!

• Visits are a simple reminder that they are loved.
For the vast majority of us, quality time spent together is our single biggest way to feel loved and connected. Seniors are no different. Your physical presence in the room brings enormous joy and comfort and contentment.

A Few More Tips
It can be hard to pull of personal visits to your senior loved one sometimes, but there are other things you can do that can be just as powerful as your presence. Try the following ideas and do them often!

  • Send cards
  • Send email if they have access to it.
  • Write a letter the old-fashioned way—on pretty stationery!
  • Send photos
  • Send a care package with favorite goodies
  • Call them

The bottom line here is that our senior loved ones always feel younger and happier when they are connected to friends and family. Take the time to reach out and go visit, even if for short times. Don’t let life get in the way of these moments. You will regret it later. Each moment spent with senior loved ones is precious for both parties!

For more caregiving tips for your loved ones, visit our senior home care blog.

Home Helpers of Norwood and Metro South is a locally-owned, trusted home health care agency and offers quality, compassionate senior in-home care services including home care assistance, personal care, companion care, respite care, Alzheimer’s & dementia care as well as homemaker services in Norwood, Newton, Attleboro, Wellesley, Franklin, Needham, Mansfield, Canton, Avon, Dedham, Bridgewater, Dover, Easton, Walpole, Auburndale, Foxborough, Medfield, Milton, Norfolk, Waltham, Newtonville, No. Attleboro, Plainville, Raynham, Rehoboth, Sharon, So. Attleboro, Stoughton, Sherborn, Waban, Westwood, and Wrentham.

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Awareness and Fall Prevention Tips for Seniors

Winter is upon us and now is the perfect time to for caregivers of seniors, as well as friends and family, to become familiar with the risks of senior falling. Falling can have serious consequences for seniors so it’s vital to learn more about the risks and the potential impacts on their health.

Preventing Senior Falling

Did you know that the number one cause of injuries among seniors is falling? It accounts for more than 2 million visits to the emergency room each year! With a third of senior citizens falling annually, we need to educate ourselves about senior falling and how to prevent them. As we grow older, our bones become more brittle, leading to more serious injuries. These injuries can have a huge impact on quality of life.

Here are some stats from the Center for Disease Control:

  • Senior falling is the among the top causes for Traumatic Brain Injury. (TBI) This can lead to even more falls, often resulting in death.
  • Falls are the number one cause of broken bones in older Americans. Severe injuries such as breaking a hip, can lead to devastating consequences.
  • When a senior has suffered a bad fall, they often become fearful of falling again, which leads to decreased mobility. Lack of physical fitness only serves to increase the risk of falling.
  • More men than women die from senior falling each year.
  • Senior women suffer more bone fractures than men.
  • Tens of billions of dollars are spent each year on direct medical bills.
  • Although these facts seem dismal, there is no reason to think senior falling is just part of the aging process. There are simple things caregivers and families can do to prevent falls, and even the seniors themselves can help prevent falling by staying fit and improving balance.

Tips for Preventing Senior Falls

The most important thing in preventing falls is understanding the risks. Things like not being physically fit or active, chronic medical conditions, medication issues, and vision problems are just a few risk factors. Learning more about these risks will help greatly in preventing a fall in the first place.

Here are some helpful tips from the Council on Aging:

  1. Make sure your senior loved one has regular vision and hearing checkups
  2. Sign up for a balance class, or other exercise programs designed for seniors
  3. Talk about it! Encourage conversation with their doctor to help them understand the risks of falling and how to prevent them.
  4. Pay attention to the way they are walking or standing, especially if you notice them holding onto things as they move about.
  5. Discuss medication side effects with their doctor. Some medications can increase dizziness or drowsiness, which can be a big fall risk.
  6. Take up lose rugs around the house, as they can be a tripping hazard.

Senior falling can be prevented! By learning more about it and taking steps to prevent falls, you can greatly reduce the risk of a traumatic fall.

If you need help caring for a senior loved one, we can help. Call us or visit our Home Helpers website.

Home Helpers of Norwood and Metro South is a locally-owned, trusted home health care agency and offers quality, compassionate senior in-home care services including home care assistance, personal care, companion care, respite care, Alzheimer’s & dementia care as well as homemaker services in Norwood, Newton, Attleboro, Wellesley, Franklin, Needham, Mansfield, Canton, Avon, Dedham, Bridgewater, Dover, Easton, Walpole, Auburndale, Foxborough, Medfield, Milton, Norfolk, Waltham, Newtonville, No. Attleboro, Plainville, Raynham, Rehoboth, Sharon, So. Attleboro, Stoughton, Sherborn, Waban, Westwood, and Wrentham.

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5 Tips for Preventing Pneumonia in Seniors

A serious respiratory infection is a dreaded complication for the elderly. Here’s 5 tips to help you with this responsibility.

It seems that as the climate changes in the fall, and in many parts of the country, it’s much cooler and even wetter, we begin to hear lots about staying safe from the flu. Even when we call our pharmacy, there is a pre-loaded announcement asking if we’ve had our flu shots. But we’d like to point out there is another dangerous infection that’s even more life-threatening than the flu for our beloved senior citizens: Pneumonia!

Although pneumonia can have several origins, such as bacteria, viruses, it remains the most commonly treated infections for an older adult. The American Academy of Family Physicians has presented statistics that more than two-thirds of seniors older than 65 are admitted into hospital care because of pneumonia. Those are huge numbers!

You may wonder why pneumonia affects people over 65 with such great impact. There are several reasons; namely, a decrease in lung capacity that occurs naturally with age, an increase in exposure to disease in group environments and settings, as well as the very presence of conditions such as cardiopulmonary and diabetes which may put the patient in a predisposed position for developing pneumonia.

1. Learn and Be Aware of the Symptoms of Pneumonia in the Elderly
For a younger person, classic symptoms of pneumonia are a heavy cough, a high temperature and body chills. But your elderly loved one may not show the same signs of the illness according to the Infectious Disease Clinics of North America. Be on the lookout for symptoms that don’t necessarily line up with these classic symptoms. It could be weakness, getting confused, experiencing delirium or even simple dizziness. This is even more so in patients who suffer dementia or full-blown Alzheimer’s. These mental problems will prevent a loved one from accurately communicating or reporting typical pneumonia symptoms. As well, you’ll have to be extra vigilant to notice signs of pneumonia if your Senior has preexisting conditions, and it’s your job as a caretaker and one who loves them to stay alert and be sure to have a conversation with your medical provider at the first hint something could be leading to pneumonia. It’s that important!

2. Good Hygiene Counts!
We can’t emphasize enough how important plain old hand-washing is! Infections such as the common cold and other respiratory infections, including the flu, can lead to pneumonia. The Mayo Clinic has reported that if people will simply never fail to wash their hands or use hand sanitizer on a regular basis, this can help prevent the spread of these nasty germs that can be so devastating to the elderly. And there are other kinds of infections, like oral or dental infections, which can also lead to pneumonia, so it isn’t just washing your hands that’s a MUST – it’s good dental hygiene as well. We think it goes without saying, but to keep your elderly loved one safe, keep them away from others who are sick. It could be just a routine common cold, or it could be children with chicken pox or the measles; believe it or not, they can all lead to pneumonia.

3. Pneumonia Immunization
There is a one-time vaccine against bacterial pneumonia, and The Mayo Clinic and the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute both have advisories out urging that you have seniors or any other “at-risk” individual vaccinated. This immunization will prevent or at least reduce the severity of having pneumonia. Sometimes physicians will suggest having a booster shot after a few years. Since the flu can lead to pneumonia, it is wise to discuss the flu vaccine with your doctor as well.

4. NO Smoking!
If the elderly people in your care smokes, do everything you can to see that they stop immediately. Being a smoker increases the risk factor associated with pneumonia greatly. It not only increases the risk of getting the disease, but it will greatly limit the ability of the lungs to heal and it lowers the entire body’s ability to fight off infection. Quitting smoking is one of the best things your Senior could possibly do to stay healthy.

5. Good Health Matters!
Habits of good overall health are of prime importance when it comes to preventing disease, including pneumonia, for the elderly and really, everyone else, too. Good nutrition will help the immune system remain strong and keep the ability to fight off infections. Physical exercise is also important in the grand scheme of good health, too. Along with adequate sleep, be sure to have your loved one exercising as much as is appropriate for his or her condition. So, that wraps it up: Eat right, sleep well, and exercise!

These tips should help prepare you to help prevent pneumonia.

For more tips to help you care for your elderly loved ones, visit our senior home care blog.

Home Helpers of Norwood and Metro South is a locally-owned, trusted home health care agency and offers quality, compassionate senior in-home care services including home care assistance, personal care, companion care, respite care, Alzheimer’s & dementia care as well as homemaker services in Norwood, Newton, Attleboro, Wellesley, Franklin, Needham, Mansfield, Canton, Avon, Dedham, Bridgewater, Dover, Easton, Walpole, Auburndale, Foxborough, Medfield, Milton, Norfolk, Waltham, Newtonville, No. Attleboro, Plainville, Raynham, Rehoboth, Sharon, So. Attleboro, Stoughton, Sherborn, Waban, Westwood, and Wrentham.

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Why Seniors Need a Living Will

No one wants to talk about end of life issues. Especially if those issues involve a beloved aging senior who isn’t near the end of his life. But no matter how hesitant family members might be to broach the subject, either because they find the subject awkward or in poor taste, it’s crucial that a living will be discussed and legally documented while your senior is still able to make known his or her wishes for end of life care! If your loved one is already unable to state coherently his or her wishes, then talk with siblings or other family members. Make and document the decisions you choose together.

Seniors, caregivers, and family members benefit from having a living will in place. Older adults often are relieved to have their end of life wishes known. Many seniors do not want their families to be burdened with having to make these difficult decisions during a sudden health crisis. Also, the burden of worrying that their wishes won’t be followed is removed.

A living will is a legal document which clearly lists a person’s stated wishes for end of life care. It may also be called a healthcare directive or an advance directive. The terms of the living will influence doctors and family members when they must decide on medical treatment for patients unable to communicate or no longer able to decide for themselves.

A living will and a medical Power of Attorney often work together. Some states combine the two into one document. Your senior can choose someone legally to make medical decisions for them. Sometimes that person is called the health care agent. They might also be called the proxy for health care decisions.

A living will documents specifically what end of life treatments are acceptable to your older adult and which ones they refuse. Usually, a living will will include a senior’s preferences for treatments such as CPR, mechanical ventilation (breathing by machine), tube feeding, dialysis, antibiotics or antiviral meds, palliative care (keeping the patient as comfortable and pain-free as possible. A senior may refuse any invasive treatments or tests, or may choose to have their medical Power of Attorney make those decisions about tests, etc., on an as-needed basis.

In a living will, end of life care directives often include seniors’ wishes for after end of life. Many seniors want to donate organs and tissue for others awaiting transplants. They may also wish to donate their bodies for scientific study. These two issues may be perhaps the most difficult to broach with your senior, but it is important that you do so.

When considering a living will for your senior, be sure to read the “fine print.” Having a living will takes the guesswork out of the decision making of end of life care. It protects caregivers or family members from the stress of trying to honor wishes which were not made clear to them and it should prevent arguments about the patient’s end of life care among family members and caregivers.

If seniors want a non-family member or an unmarried partner to be in charge of their end of life care, they have to put in place both a living will and a medical Power of Attorney. Otherwise, HIPPA laws will prevent doctors from even speaking to them about your older adult’s care.

Different states have different laws for living wills. Some states may require only the living will whereas another may require both a living will and a medical Power of Attorney. Make sure to use the correct form for your state. You can find links on the website for The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization. Choose the “Caring” section. That link refers to the living will as an Advance Directive.

For more helpful information, visit our website, click here.

Home Helpers of Norwood and Metro South is a locally-owned, trusted home health care agency and offers quality, compassionate senior in-home care services including home care assistance, personal care, companion care, respite care, Alzheimer’s & dementia care as well as homemaker services in Norwood, Newton, Attleboro, Wellesley, Franklin, Needham, Mansfield, Canton, Avon, Dedham, Bridgewater, Dover, Easton, Walpole, Auburndale, Foxborough, Medfield, Milton, Norfolk, Waltham, Newtonville, No. Attleboro, Plainville, Raynham, Rehoboth, Sharon, So. Attleboro, Stoughton, Sherborn, Waban, Westwood, and Wrentham.

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Elder Care and Role Reversal

No matter how much you think you have planned ahead, the day your aging parent can’t cope on his or her own comes as a shock. You begin to reverse roles: you become the “parent” and your aging parent becomes your “child” as the scope of Mom or Dad’s needs begin to mimic those you had when you were a child. Can you handle taking care of your own children’s needs and those of your parent without disrupting your own household? Can you please the rest of your family and still offer the care your parent needs? The answer is no! Adding an aging parent to your household can be daunting. It can also be a blessing. Either way, it is going to change the dynamic of your household. So what level of care will you need to provide?

Being the primary caregiver for an aging parent might include managing a specialized diet, making sure they eat, taking charge of their meds and/or finances. You will also become your parents’ advocate in matters of health, finance, legal matters, and with the rest of your family. Immediate and extended family might agree to keep Mom or Dad out of a care facility but decline to offer you any help caring for them. How can you cope?

Begin by putting the spotlight where it belongs: not on you but on your elderly parent. Your own feelings of guilt or martyrdom won’t get you through this. Nor will trying to hang on to the man or woman your parent used to be. Your parent is now an elderly person and requires constant attention and care. Use creative ideas to enlist help from family members.

Where do you begin? Schedule an appointment with your parent’s primary care physician. Bring with you a list of questions you need to be answered. Discuss the state or decline of your parent’s health. You can check with the hospital affiliated with your parent’s medical coverage for information on an elder care group. Their insurance provider will be affiliated with groups providing care or programs for elder care. Let the medical and insurance providers help you determine what types and levels of care your parents need.

Additional care could be as simple as an Aide coming in to help with bathing, medication, meals, dressing, etc. If more is needed take your concerns to the visiting nurse or to your parent’s doctor.

The watchword for elder care is SAFETY. In all aspects of elder care, the word Safety is the best guide for an elder person’s caregiver. If the safety level is not what it should be, keep pushing until you get the necessary help. When needed, keep pounding on the issue of Safety.

Finding everything available to help with your aging parent’s care can be a lengthy process, but it is well worth the time and effort involved. It can also help extend your parent’s life. It may seem awkward but talk to your parents while they are still able to make the decisions about health care, living wills, finances, power-of-attorney, etc. Try to have a plan in place BEFORE you need one. It will alleviate stress, confusion, and hurt feelings while you navigate the caregiving process.

The best gift you can give your elderly parent is you. Set aside quality time to spend with your parents. Make them feel welcome, not burdensome. Enlist whatever help is available to keep your caregiving free of resentment. Use this experience as a way to honor and love your parents. Teach your children ways to contribute. After all, the care your children see you give might be the care you get from them.

For more tips on caring for aging loved ones, visit our senior home care blog.

Home Helpers of Metro South is a locally-owned, trusted home health care agency and offers quality, compassionate senior in-home care services including home care assistance, 24-hour live-in care, personal care, companion care, respite care, Alzheimer’s & dementia care, Parkinson’s care as well as homemaker services in Norwood, Newton, Attleboro, Wellesley, Franklin, Needham, Mansfield, Canton, Avon, Dedham, Bridgewater, Dover, Easton, Walpole, Auburndale, Foxborough, Medfield, Milton, Norfolk, Waltham, Newtonville, No. Attleboro, Plainville, Raynham, Rehoboth, Sharon, So. Attleboro, Stoughton, Sherborn, Waban, Westwood, and Wrentham, Massachusetts.

Legal Disclaimer
This blog provides general information and discussions about medicine, health, and related subjects. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately-licensed physician or other healthcare workers.

Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.

The views expressed on this blog and website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, practice or other institution with which may have been mentioned or linked to in the article.

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The Elderly Appetite: Causes of Change or Loss and How to Stimulate It

It’s natural that we experience changes in appetite or loss of appetite. However, these can also be signs of malnutrition or other health problems. Seniors might not need as much food as when they were younger, but they still need the right nutrition to keep them as healthy as possible.

Understanding the Cause
Although some change in or loss of appetite is normal for seniors, other things can also cause a loss of appetite in seniors. Some elderly persons lack the energy to cook. Their taste buds also change so that eating is less enjoyable. Depression or loneliness can also affect appetite in the elderly. Loss of appetite can also be caused by certain health conditions. It can also be a side effect of medication.

If you find that your loved ones are no longer eating well, then consult a physician to make sure there is no underlying health concern.

Natural Causes of Loss of Appetite
As seniors age, their metabolic rate slows and their amount of physical activity decreases. Hence, they need fewer calories. Gastrointestinal changes or dental problems can affect appetite. Changes to the senses of smell and taste can affect how your loved ones enjoy eating.

Needing fewer calories (less food) means the elderly need more nutrition per meal than before. A lack of vital nutrition can cause major health concerns. Even more significantly, changes to appetite or taste can indicate some serious illnesses like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease, thyroid disorders, periodontal disease, mouth and throat infections, and salivary gland dysfunction.

Ways to Stimulate the Elderly Appetite
Here are some practical tips to help your senior loved one get enough nutrition. Add healthy calories to the portions they can handle. Seniors won’t eat huge portions anymore, but they can benefit from a higher nutrient density in the portions they do eat. Try adding olive oil, avocado, peanut butter, etc.

A regular eating schedule can be beneficial. Stimulate the body’s hunger signals by slowly adding in a beverage and/or a snack during a normal meal time.

Oftentimes, seniors lack accessible or available social contact. Loneliness and depression can reduce appetite. Look into available meal options with family, friends, community or senior centers, and churches or temples. Also, check with meal delivery services like Meals On Wheels, etc.

Be sure you understand the side effects of your loved one’s medication. Some meds cause meat to taste metallic. If this occurs, try vegetarian sources of protein like dairy, legumes, or soy. If water tastes “off,” then try adding slices of cucumber or lemon.

Sometimes a prescription appetite stimulant will do the trick. Be sure to check with a physician to make sure this route is appropriate for your elderly loved one.

For more helpful tips on caring for the elderly, visit our senior home care blog.

Home Helpers of Norwood and Metro South is a locally-owned, trusted home health care agency and offers quality, compassionate senior in-home care services including home care assistance, personal care, companion care, respite care, Alzheimer’s & dementia care as well as homemaker services in Norwood, Newton, Attleboro, Wellesley, Franklin, Needham, Mansfield, Canton, Avon, Dedham, Bridgewater, Dover, Easton, Walpole, Auburndale, Foxborough, Medfield, Milton, Norfolk, Waltham, Newtonville, No. Attleboro, Plainville, Raynham, Rehoboth, Sharon, So. Attleboro, Stoughton, Sherborn, Waban, Westwood, and Wrentham.

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Caregiver Employment Opportunities at the AARP Virtual Career Fair

AARP is hosting their next Virtual Career Fair on September 20 from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. ET. This live online event provides those 50+ with the opportunity to recharge their job search and connect with local and national employers – all from the comfort of home.

During the Virtual Career Fair, participants will have the opportunity to chat with recruiters from companies like Home Helpers. There will be opportunities to apply to caregiver jobs during the event.

This official AARP event is great way for job seekers to:

  • Re-charge their job search
  • Connect with local and national employers and volunteer organizations, such as Home Helpers
  • Chat with recruiters, submit résumés, view job openings, and tap into on-site educational resources
  • Get timely job search advice during four live webinars and a half-dozen live scheduled chats
  • Play games that help brush up on job search skills (and enter for a chance to win a prize!)
  • Connect with other job seekers
  • Get a sneak peek at AARP’s new Work & Jobs Skills Inventory designed to help job seekers polish the digital skills they need to find a job or keep the job they have
  • And more!

Can’t make the live date? Register anyway! By registering, you’ll have access to the Virtual Career Environment and see the jobs listed by employers, access tip sheets and view webinars on-demand through the end of 2016.

And don’t forget to share this opportunity with friends and family who might be interested.

Register now at www.aarp.org/VirtualCareerFair or visit our caregiver employment page for more Home Helpers job information.

Register Now! Home Helpers Caregiver Employment Info

Home Helpers of Norwood and Metro South is a locally-owned, trusted home health care agency and offers quality, compassionate senior in-home care services including home care assistance, personal care, companion care, respite care, Alzheimer’s & dementia care as well as homemaker services in Norwood, Newton, Attleboro, Wellesley, Franklin, Needham, Mansfield, Canton, Avon, Dedham, Bridgewater, Dover, Easton, Walpole, Auburndale, Foxborough, Medfield, Milton, Norfolk, Waltham, Newtonville, No. Attleboro, Plainville, Raynham, Rehoboth, Sharon, So. Attleboro, Stoughton, Sherborn, Waban, Westwood, and Wrentham.

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Caring for Someone with Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s Disease is a condition that doesn’t just affect one individual but the entire family including those tasked with caregiving. Aside from the pain the individual is going through, his/her family has to deal with the grief and difficulty of watching someone they love suffer and decline. As a home care expert, your responsibility is to assist the patient and family any way you can. Here are some tips.

Take Care of Yourself
If you have ever talked to someone who cares for a patient with dementia, Alzheimer’s or other conditions, one of the first things they will tell you is to take care of yourself too. This is a stressful job and you won’t be of any use to the patient if you’re ill. Watch out for your health, get support and respite so you’ll be able to perform your duties. It isn’t just the patient or family that needs support, because you do.

You should not feel guilty about caring for yourself or taking some time off from your duties as home care specialist. One of the most difficult things for a home care specialist to do is admit they need to take care of themselves. If you find this difficult to do, remember that the care you give yourself is the care you’ll be giving to your patient.

Learn about Alzheimer’s
Elderly care will be less stressful if you’re knowledgeable about Alzheimer’s Disease. Learn as much about AD as you can and your role as a home care specialist will be more manageable. You should talk to the patient’s doctor and do research on your own. Most of the time you’ll be caring for someone with AD in the early or middle stages so don’t worry about the advanced stage now.

Talk to Other Professional Home Care Aides
One of the ways to handle this situation is to speak with other professionals who take care of patients with AD. You can get in touch with them on the Internet or your local community. One of the most challenging aspects of Alzheimer’s Disease is differentiating between Alzheimer’s and the patient, especially if he or she is a loved one or family member.

During the early stages of the disease it is easy to think that he or she is doing these things out of spite. This can lead to resentment and anger towards the patient, but you have to remember it isn’t them; it is the disease that causes them to behave that way.

Get Emotional Support
Families dealing with Alzheimer’s Disease often seek emotional support because it is a gut wrenching experience, both for them and the person that is afflicted with the condition. This should not be limited to family members as home health aides need it too. With proper support, you will be in a better position to deal with the situation and what to expect.

During the early stages of AD, the person diagnosed may refuse to accept their condition, and as a home care aide you mustn’t get frustrated with this. You can obtain emotional support from professional counseling or family members. Either you need to have a support system that grows and evolves with you.

Set Up a Daily Routine
Talk with the family about setting up a daily schedule. This will cut down on confusion and make the challenges less difficult to deal with. Those with Alzheimer’s can still follow schedules so take advantage of this. For important tasks like doctor’s appointments, bathing etc., schedule this when the person is most lucid.

Get the Individual Involved
You should also give the person with Alzheimer’s sufficient time to do what they want and don’t hurry them. If it’s still the early stages and they show signs of being capable, let the person do as many tasks as they can with as little assistance as possible. Whether it’s dressing without help, setting the table or so on, you might be surprised at how much they can still do.

Caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s Disease undergo a lot of stress and that is understandable, but you don’t have to give in. There are ways to deal with it and ease your tasks without shying away from your responsibilities.

Home Helpers of Norwood and Metro South is a locally-owned, trusted home health care agency and offers quality, compassionate senior in-home care services including home care assistance, personal care, companion care, respite care, Alzheimer’s & dementia care as well as homemaker services in Norwood, Newton, Attleboro, Wellesley, Franklin, Needham, Mansfield, Canton, Avon, Dedham, Bridgewater, Dover, Easton, Walpole, Auburndale, Foxborough, Medfield, Milton, Norfolk, Waltham, Newtonville, No. Attleboro, Plainville, Raynham, Rehoboth, Sharon, So. Attleboro, Stoughton, Sherborn, Waban, Westwood, and Wrentham.

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How to Cope with Sundowning

Sundowning is one of the symptoms of dementia and Alzheimer’s, and it is characterized by agitation and confusion as the sun goes down during the afternoon and the evening. Home care experts have noted the symptom affects mainly those with advanced or mid-stage dementia. There are ways to help you deal with this, and it will help both the caregiver and the individual afflicted with dementia.

What Leads to Sundowning?
There are several factors that may contribute to sundowning such as mental and physical exhaustion as the day comes to an end. We all get tired from working and activities all day, and older people with dementia and related conditions also go through it. Another possible reason is Alzheimer’s might be causing a change in the person’s internal clock, leading to biological confusion between night and day.

In-home care studies also suggest the increased shadows and reduced light may cause people with Alzheimer’s to make mistaken assumptions about things they see, leading to fright and confusion. It could also be a reaction to dealing with caregivers, who at the end of the day are tired and not as responsive during the morning.

Adults don’t need to sleep as much as younger people, so they are usually up at night. Conversely, the agitation could also spring from disorientation due to difficulty distinguishing dreams from reality.

How to Deal with Sundowning
Here are some suggestions to help you deal with sundowning.

• Make sure your home is lit up well during the night. Things that are familiar to the person with dementia during the day may look different at night and this could precipitate agitated behavior. By keeping the environment where they are well lit, it could set them at ease.

Home health care helpers and caregivers should take steps to make the sleeping environment as comfortable as possible. Elderly people afflicted with Alzheimer’s have difficulty sleeping as it is, so try to make them as comfortable as possible.

There are many ways to do this, and there are no hard and fast rules as people have different preferences. However there should always be night lights by the bed so the individual is safe. The doors and windows have to be secure as well. People with Alzheimer’s or dementia can wander off, so it’s a good idea to install door and motion sensors as they’ll notify you if he/she wanders off.

• Maintain a Schedule: a daily routine helps minimize their stress. There should be a schedule for their meals and meds, and from waking up till they go to bed, a daily regimen helps reduce restlessness.

Senior care involves careful management of their meals, and the general rule is to steer clear from large dinners and stimulants. Don’t give them coffee or any form of caffeine in the morning. Sweets and alcohol in the morning should be avoided as well. Save the big meals for lunch and keep dinner small. A large evening meal is difficult to digest and will keep the person up, so make certain their meal leave them feeling full but not to the point it affects their sleep.

Activity Helps
If we rest the entire day we will end up awake at night, and this holds true for those with Alzheimer’s as well. Afternoon naps should be avoided as it will keep them awake during the night; instead you should prepare activities during the morning and afternoon. These can include appointments with their doctor, taking strolls, bathing and so on.

Exercise during the morning is ideal. However, exercising four hours prior to their bedtime should be avoided: when we exercise, our brain releases BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor), which make us feel alert and awake, so it’s not advisable to do it when they’re supposed to go to sleep.

Final Reminders
An important part of sundowning in elderly care is knowing the triggers and minimizing distractions. TV, music, people coming and going etc. in the evening, all of these might be triggers for sundowning, so you need to take steps to prevent this. When it is time for the person to go to bed, remove these distractions.

Sundowning is a common symptom of Alzheimer’s, but that doesn’t mean you’re helpless. Take the right approach and you’ll make things easier for you and your loved one.

For caregiving help or advice, please contact us. We’d be happy to help you. For weekly caregiving tips from Home Helpers, visit our blog.

Home Helpers of Norwood and Metro South is a locally-owned, trusted home health care agency and offers quality, compassionate senior in-home care services including home care assistance, personal care, companion care, respite care, Alzheimer’s & dementia care as well as homemaker services in Norwood, Newton, Attleboro, Wellesley, Franklin, Needham, Mansfield, Canton, Avon, Dedham, Bridgewater, Dover, Easton, Walpole, Auburndale, Foxborough, Medfield, Milton, Norfolk, Waltham, Newtonville, No. Attleboro, Plainville, Raynham, Rehoboth, Sharon, So. Attleboro, Stoughton, Sherborn, Waban, Westwood, and Wrentham.

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Dementia and Alzheimer’s Myths and Facts

To be a good caregiver, knowing the difference between dementia and Alzheimer’s myths and facts is necessary. Because there is still a lot we don’t understand about them, it is not surprising that myths and misinformation have spread, and you need to be aware of them.

Myth: Herbal Supplements Can Cure Alzheimer’s
Fact: There are a lot of herbal products and supplements which claim to cure Alzheimer’s, but there is no scientific or medical evidence to support them. These herbal supplements have been the subject of a lot of studies but no definitive conclusion has been reached yet. It is unlikely these supplements will cause side effects that affect their behavior, but there is no evidence these herbs can help.

Myth: Dementia and Alzheimer are One and the Same
Fact: The two are not the same.

Dementia is not classified as a specific disease, but a collection of indicators that are linked to a decline or loss of reasoning, thinking and memory. Those with dementia encounter problems performing daily routines that they have been doing all their lives.

Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most common types of dementia. It is progressive, irreversible and progressive. The exact cause is unknown and there is no cure. The need for home care for Alzheimer’s is it robs the person of their memory, leading to disorientation, confusion, memory loss and personality changes. These symptoms usually manifest during the middle and late stages of the disease.

Myth: If a Family Member Has Alzheimer’s, You Will Get it Too
Fact: This is not true. Yes, some types of dementia have a genetic element, but this does not mean you’re going to have one as well. Even if your parent or sibling has developed this condition, you can take steps to prevent it from happening to you. You can reduce your risk for instance, by living a healthy lifestyle, exercising and sticking to a healthy diet.

This doesn’t guarantee you won’t end up with dementia, but your risk goes down. By controlling your blood pressure and keeping your cholesterol at normal levels, you’ll be in better shape.

Myth: Red Wine is a Preventive Measure against Dementia
Fact: Home health aides are sometimes asked if red wine is good for people with Alzheimer’s, but it’s not. There are health benefits associated with red wine, but the amount consumed in typical social drinking is not enough to make a difference. Red wine contains a chemical known as resveratrol which offers some protective benefits. However, you need to drink about two dozen a night, which isn’t good for anyone whether they have dementia or not.

Myth: Head Injuries Cause Alzheimer’s
Fact: This myth is very persistent but again there is no conclusive proof yet. Certainly concussions among young and middle age people are a concern, but it is too early to link it linked to dementia. There are medical researchers who believe that concussions and other types of head injuries could lead to dementia, but until there is evidence to support this, it cannot be considered factual.

Myth: There is Nothing That Can be Done if a Person has Dementia
Fact: Dementia and Alzheimer’s are progressive and up to now there is no cure. However, it would be wrong to say that nothing can be done. With proper care and medication, it is possible to make up for the decline in a person’s cognitive functions. With the combination of medicine and personal care, it is possible to help a person deal with the symptoms. One of the keys is making sure the person is as physically and mentally active as possible.

Myth: Drug Use Leads to Alzheimer’s and Dementia
Fact: There is no evidence to support this claim. Drug abuse is unhealthy in many other ways, but there are not enough facts to support the view drug use in any way makes a person more vulnerable. More research is necessary.

As an in-home care expert, part of your responsibility is answering questions from family members concerning the disease. Doctors should have the final word of course, but knowing the facts and myths can go far in informing family members and putting their minds at ease.

For more tips on Alzheimer’s Disease or dementia or caregiving in general, visit our blog.

Home Helpers of Norwood and Metro South is a locally-owned, trusted home health care agency and offers quality, compassionate senior in-home care services including home care assistance, personal care, companion care, respite care, Alzheimer’s & dementia care as well as homemaker services in Norwood, Newton, Attleboro, Wellesley, Franklin, Needham, Mansfield, Canton, Avon, Dedham, Bridgewater, Dover, Easton, Walpole, Auburndale, Foxborough, Medfield, Milton, Norfolk, Waltham, Newtonville, No. Attleboro, Plainville, Raynham, Rehoboth, Sharon, So. Attleboro, Stoughton, Sherborn, Waban, Westwood, and Wrentham.

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