Guide to Aging in Place: How Seniors Can Stay in Their Home

Posted by admin on December 18, 2018 - Adult Day Care

How important is my independence? How much do I love my home? Would I ever want to lose either?

These are questions all of us face as we age.

No one wants to lose their independence. In fact, when the time comes, most of us would prefer to do what’s known as “aging in place.” This is where seniors get to retain most, if not all, of their independence, while staying in their own home.

What does it take to make aging in place possible?

The Ultimate Guide to Aging in Place – Making Sure Our Loved Ones Stay Safe

As caregivers or loved ones of seniors, of course we want to see them living happy, healthy, independent lives. But they need to do so in a way which is going to be safe.

After all, there’s no point in protecting a person’s independence at the risk of illness or injury.

How can we ensure our loved ones stay safe at home? We can do so by following these three steps.

Make Home Modifications to Ensure Safety

The first step we need to take is to implement some safety measures within the home. We can put these measures into place whether our loved one is living with us or completely on their own.

What kind of modifications should be made?

• Add more lighting
• Add handrails around the home, especially in the shower/tub and around the toilet
• Widen doorways
• Remove tripping hazards, like area rugs
• Purchasing chairs which have armrests
• Purchasing motorized recliners which lift a person safely to their feet
• Changing door knobs so they’re easier to open
• Adding a lifted seat to the toilet
• Invest in a walk-in tub
• Moving their room downstairs or moving them into a one-story space.

Hire a Home Care Aide for Practical Assistance

The second step we should take is to hire a home care aide. Home care can make life so much easier, safer, and more enjoyable for seniors.

They can help with:

• Cooking and eating
• Bathing and going to the restroom
• Running errands (including medication pick-up)

Depending on the needs of the senior, there are multiple levels of home care services. For instance, seniors who return home after a stay in the hospital need more specialized care.

Aides can help them with:

• Medication management
• Rehabilitation exercises
• Speech therapy

Something else caregivers look for when they hire home care are services focused around dementia and Alzheimers.

At Skylark Senior Care, we create a unique care program for each senior so they can receive the individualized care they really need. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all services.

Take Advantage of Local Adult Day Care Activities

Making sure a senior’s physical needs are cared for is vital. Of equal importance, though, is their emotional wellbeing.

We can make home modifications and hire someone to help with chores and medication management, but it will all be for naught if we don’t pay attention to our loved one’s emotional needs.

We all have these kinds of needs – the need for movement, for social interaction, for continued education. These things are essential in order for us to feel like happy, well-rounded individuals. And this doesn’t stop once we reach our senior years.

Keeping seniors healthy is very closely linked with keeping them happy. In fact, in a report in Science Daily, happiness can have just as much of an impact our health as not smoking, changing our diet, and getting plenty of exercise.

This is why adult day care centers are so important. Not only do they give caregivers a respite – they give seniors the opportunity to get out of the house, socialize, and have some fun. All of which can have a profound impact on their cardiovascular health and immune response.

With the Right Tools, Seniors Can Stay Happy, Healthy, and Independent

It’s hard to imagine being told we can’t stay in our home any longer. No matter how a loved one tried to reason with us, we’d likely strongly object to the idea.

We all want to retain our independence for as long as possible. It doesn’t matter what age we are. The beloved seniors in our life don’t feel any different about it than someone in their twenties or thirties.

Thankfully, even though independence isn’t as easy as when a person is young, healthy, and strong, there are resources which can help. With the right assistance – like seniors get from home care and adult day services – they can healthily and happily age in place.

 

Senior Home Care: What Options Do You Have and Can You Afford Them?

Posted by admin on November 20, 2018 - Financial

Seniors want to retain their independence for as long as possible.

There comes a time, though, when most of us will need some assistance. Nearly everyone ends up facing the realization maybe they’re not as strong as they used to be – either due to age, illness, or injury – and they now need help with chores around the house.

It’s difficult for adult children to take on all the responsibility of caring for their parents because of full-time jobs, their children, and other responsibilities. Because of this, many look to senior home care agencies for some extra help.

What home care options are available? Which option is best? And is this type of care affordable?

Home Care Services – Are They the More Affordable Option?

When first considering the cost of an in-home aide, many families cringe. We totally understand – getting the right type of care isn’t cheap.

However, home care is typically more affordable than nursing homes or assisted-living facilities. So, by putting your hard-earned money toward home care, you actually accomplish two things:

• You save money in the long run.
• You allow your parents the opportunity to stay independent longer.

In June 2017, HowMuch.net (a resource to help people understand their money) released data pertaining to the cost of various care options available to seniors.

Here are some annual estimates based on their figures for the state of Georgia. Keep in mind, some estimates may be more or less based on the level of care needed.

• Nursing Home –Private Room: $74,100 per year
• Assisted Living: $34,800 per year
• Home Care Aide: $41,184 per year
• Adult Day Services: $15,600 per year.

As you can see, signing your parent up for adult day services or hiring a home aide is significantly less than a nursing home.

Granted, there are some circumstances when 24/7 care is necessary. But many seniors can maintain their independence despite age, illness, or injury – as long as they get the home assistance they need.

Fortunately, not all of the money spent on this type of care needs to come directly out of your pocket or your parents. Veterans’ programs, Medicaid, Social Security, and other programs are available to help cover some – if not all – of the costs of these services.

We recommend contacting your parents’ insurance or benefit providers to find out what kind of coverage they have and how they can benefit from it the most. We’ll also be happy to help you in any way we can.

Types of Home Care Services in Atlanta You Should Consider

To understand what you’re paying for, here’s a breakdown of the types of in-home assistance which are available to Atlanta residents.

Companion and Sitter Home Care Providers

This is a non-licensed position and is best for seniors who simply need a little help around the house. A personal care provider can help with:

• Cooking
• Cleaning
• Running errands
• Bathing and dressing

In some cases, they can also provide transport for seniors.

Besides helping out with day-to-day chores, a personal care provider can offer some much-needed socialization and companionship.

Personal Care Providers

A Personal Care aide can do everything a personal care provider can do and more. Their primary role is to assist people who have suffered through an illness or injury. They help the person with their daily activities and to regain their independence.

The personal care aide often is a Certified Nursing Assistant. They should have more training than sitter or companion service.

In addition to doing everyday tasks, an aide can provide the following services:

• Medication assistance
• Testing blood sugar and/or blood pressure levels
• Insulin injections
• Pain monitoring
• Help with physical therapy exercises

Keeping Your Parents’ Health and Happiness at the Forefront

There comes a time in everyone’s life when they need a little extra help. If the time has come for your family, we welcome you to visit Skylark Senior Care.

Like you, our main concerns are keeping your loved ones safe, healthy, and happy. We understand the need for independence and socialization, as well as assistance. And this is exactly what your parents will get from our home programs.

We work with each family to create a care program which is unique to their needs. These programs – including home care and adult day care – can help you find the balance you’ve been looking for. You’ll feel confident knowing your parents are safe, and they’ll love retaining their independence.

 

Will Veterans’ Aid Cover Adult Day Care Costs for Your Parents?

Posted by admin on October 18, 2018 - Adult Day Care

We all want what’s best for our parents.

Over the years, they’ve done so much to care for and protect us. Now, it’s our turn to return the favor.

Unfortunately, this can prove to be difficult for many adult children. Most of us work full-time and have children to raise.

Thankfully, there are in-home aid and adult day care programs for just these situations. These programs can provide a means of assistance and security for our parents, all while helping them maintain their dignity and independence.

And as adult children who want the very best for our parents, these programs can be a lifesaver.

But are these services affordable? What if one or both of our parents were veterans? Will the VA Aid and Attendance program help pay for these services?

What Is Covered by the U.S. Veteran’s Aid and Attendance Program?

The Aid and Attendance program is for seniors with a VA pension who need help within the home. This can be due to being housebound or bedridden due to disabilities or illnesses. Veterans who have limited mobility due to poor eyesight (5/200 visual acuity or less when corrected) are eligible, too.

Does the VA pay the home care or adult day company directly? No, the money goes to the veteran and/or their surviving spouse in conjunction to their monthly pension payment.

Payment will be made to the veteran to cover costs pertaining to:

• Help with bathing, feeding, and dressing
• Adjusting any prosthetic devices
• Help to perform activities associated with daily living (walking, grooming)
• Nursing home costs if the veteran needs to be admitted to one
• Adult day care services

The great thing about this provision is it allows seniors to:

• Stay at home
• Stay relatively independent
• Avoid the high cost of living in an assisted living facility

Regrettably, many seniors and their families have a difficult time paying for in-home aids or adult day care. There just isn’t enough money coming in from their pension/income to cover these costs in addition to their monthly bills and the cost of food and medications.

Fortunately, the government has come through for their veterans with programs such as the VA Aid and Attendance program. It can do much to ease the financial burden our veterans face. In some cases, the money can even be used to pay a family member as a caregiver.

Do Your Parents Qualify for Senior Day Care Through This VA Program?

Is everyone eligible for the Aid and Attendance program? Not necessarily – there are some definite requirements for veterans.

First off, the veteran had to have served in the following wars/conflicts for at least one day:

• WWII: December 7, 1941 – December 31, 1946
• The Korean War: June 27, 1950 – January 31, 1955
• The Vietnam War: August 5, 1964 – May 7, 1975
• For veterans who served in Vietnam: February 28, 1961 – May 7, 1975
• The Gulf War: August 2, 1990 – Undetermined end date

In addition to service for at least one day during a war, the veteran needs to be considered a “wartime veteran,” serving 90 days in the military in addition to the one or more days during the dates above. Being involved in active combat during those dates is not a requirement.

A veteran who was dishonorably discharged is not eligible.

Veterans don’t have to be disabled to receive benefits. However, a disability will result in higher benefits being paid.

Another requirement is the veteran (and/or surviving spouses) be over the age of 65 years.

In order for a surviving spouse to benefit, they must have been living with the veteran at the time of death and be single when filing for benefits.

Of course, there are some financial requirements as well, but these are adjusted periodically.

Providing Your Parents with the Very Best Care Is Possible with Aid from the VA

As adult children, we feel an instinctual desire to care for our parents in their elder years. It can be difficult, though, with all of the responsibilities we have to juggle on a daily basis. It would be lovely if we could care for our parents on our own, but sometimes we just need help.

This is where senior home care and adult day care services come in.

These programs help to take care of our parents’ daily physical needs, as well as their social and emotional needs. And can provide us with peace of mind.

It can be easy to try and take all the responsibility of caring for our aged parents ourselves, but this isn’t sustainable in most cases. Taking advantage of the services available – and the financial aid offered through the VA – is the healthy, smart, sustainable option.

In-Home & Adult Day Care Veterans Benefits: What Are Your Options?

Posted by admin on September 20, 2018 - Adult Day Care

Has your senior spouse or parent served their country? Are they at a point they need a little extra help?

If so, you should definitely look into programs available through the Department of Veterans Affairs for aging veterans. The VA has a variety of in-home and community care options for vets, and your loved one might be eligible.

What options are available? And how do you know if your loved one is in a position to receive these benefits?

Home and Community Care Benefits Provided by the VA

Throughout our lives, we thrive on our independence. It allows us to be adventurous, free, and to (sometimes) accomplish things beyond our wildest dreams.

This is definitely true of our veterans. They appreciate their freedom and independence – and of every other citizen in the country – which they fought to protect.

As we get older, though, we tend to slow down, and our bodies don’t obey us nearly as much as we would like. This can be due to injury, illness, or simply age.

These limitations can definitely put a damper on our ability to maintain our independence.

This is why senior home and community care programs are so important. They allow people to stay independent while ensuring their health, safety, and happiness.

These are some of the care programs which are available to seniors through the VA in our area.

Part- or Full-Day Adult Day Care Programs

One of the things veterans miss about their time in active duty was the camaraderie they had with other soldiers.

As life changes, senior veterans lose some of their friends in death or when they move away to be closer to their immediate family.

Not having those friends around any longer can lead to loneliness and depression.

Thankfully, the VA recognizes the importance of socialization and provides coverage for adult day care programs.

These programs provide a great space for interaction, as well as physical activity and mental stimulation. It’s the ideal way to keep seniors’ bodies and minds healthy and active, while providing them with a sense of emotional fulfillment, too.

In-Home Care Aides

One of the VA’s most popular services is the home care aide. Aides are trained to assist seniors in caring for themselves at home.

Aides can assist with meals, bathing, dressing, and medication. The VA will work with you and your loved one to create a personalized care program to ensure proper care and safety.

This list is just the tip of the iceberg. According to the VA’s website, they also provide benefits for:

• Hospice care
• Palliative care
• Respite care
• Telehealth care
• And more

Look at All of Your Options Before Making Any Decisions about Care for Your Loved One

Life is busy, hectic at times, and unpredictable. We’re all just trying to make it through the day, caring for our loved ones and our responsibilities. And in the midst of it all, life decides to throw us a curveball.

A senior loved one in our family may end up sick or injured. This “new normal” now requires they receive some form of aide in order to stay at home and enjoy their independence.

Even if they haven’t experienced an injury or illness, age can creep up on the best of us, which often means we may need some extra help around the house.

These situations can easily lead to stress for your loved one, as well as family members.

Thankfully, there are programs which can help. In-home assistance and community programs like adult day care can be a major stress reliever for both the senior and their family.

These programs can ease the workload of the caretakers in the family, while giving the seniors the help they need to stay relatively independent.

Your Senior Deserves the Best Care Possible

You might assume, though, you can’t afford this type of care. But there are assistance programs available to seniors for these types of services, some of which are available through the VA.

If your loved one served in the United States military, they’re entitled to receive this type of assistance. It will take a little time to find out which programs they’re eligible for, but it will definitely be worth it.

Don’t just assume you have to take on every aspect of caring for your loved one. The VA is there to help those who have bravely served their country. Take advantage of it!

Adult Day Care Services – The Secret to Keeping Veterans Independent

Posted by admin on August 30, 2018 - Adult Day Care

Veterans are people of service. They’re used to not only taking care of themselves, but of taking care of others as well.

It makes sense, then, as they get older they’re not too keen on the idea of giving up their independence.

Thankfully, adult day care services exist.

These programs can be beneficial to veterans – and indeed, to all seniors – for a number of reasons.

The Benefits of Adult Day Care Services

Adult day care services can be beneficial to a senior veteran’s physical, emotional, and mental health and wellbeing.

Here’s why:

1. Adult Day Services Can Help Seniors Avoid Injury

Day care for seniors can protect their physical health.

If a senior has mobility issues or is recovering from an injury, they’re at risk of injury if left on their own during the day.

Their spouse or adult children might not be able to be at home during the day due to employment responsibilities.

By going to an adult day care center, they will have trained professionals around to help them when they need to move around. Having extra support can be a key in injury prevention.

2. The Socialization Experienced at an Adult Day Care Center Is Vital

After retirement, some seniors find themselves at home alone with no one to talk to.

This is lonely for anyone, but it can be especially difficult for veterans who crave the camaraderie they experienced during their military days.

Veterans enjoy being with veterans. So look for a center that works directly with a local Veterans Administration Medical Center. There will likely be several other veterans enrolled in the program.

Going to a day care center gives them the opportunity to visit with others. They’ll be able to build relationships with people of all ages, from their fellow seniors to the care staff on hand.

Regular socialization is imperative to a senior’s emotional wellbeing. Without it, they can become lonely and depressed.

Associating with others on a regular basis, though, will give them the human interaction which is essential to a happy life.

3. Day Care for Seniors Helps Keep Veterans Active and Mobile

Day care services aren’t just about socialization. Some programs offer seniors the opportunity to meet with a physical therapist.

Time spent in some form of exercise on a regular basis will keep veterans active, mobile, and more likely to be injury-free.

4. These Services Promote Independence

Adult day care programs allow veterans to stay active and social, while getting the physical support they need. This helps ensure they’re able to continue living independently in the comfort of their own home.

How to Pay for Day Care for Veterans: What Options Do You Have?

While the benefits of going to an adult day care center sound wonderful, many people worry about the cost of these types of programs.

This is a valid concern as most of us have to budget every dollar which comes our way.

Fortunately, veteran seniors have some options when it comes to paying for adult day care services.

First, utilize your VA health benefits. Not every senior veteran is eligible for adult day care. But if you receive your health care through the VA and you have a medical need for it, it’s often a covered benefit. There’s generally not a income requirement for this benefit so it can be helpful for a wide range of Veterans.

One option is private insurance. Many long-term care insurers offer coverage for adult day services. Not all do, though, so it’s best to double check with your insurance provider.

Another option is Medicaid. Adult day care is a covered service in Georgia, but you need to make sure you qualify for coverage.

With each of these options, it can be hard to determine eligibility as well as the restrictions. We have helped hundreds of families navigate the VA, Medicaid, and long-term care process for Adult Day. So, don’t hesitate to call us if you have questions about options.

Also, contact the VA to find out more about your benefits and to see if you’re eligible for another type of assistance called the Aid & Attendance Pension Benefit.

Senior Veterans Can Thrive with the Extra Help Available at an Adult Day Care Center

Veterans have done so much for the citizens of this country. It is our honor to do all we can to help them thrive as they get older.

Adult day care services is a great way to provide senior veterans with a little bit of assistance they might need at this time in their life.

It’s also a wonderful way to ensure they get to socialize with others – something we can all benefit from.

By signing up for adult day services, you can ensure your beloved veteran gets the care and friendships which will keep them happy, healthy, and independent.

 

A Guide to Senior Nutrition for Home Care and Adult Day Care

Posted by admin on July 24, 2018 - Adult Day Care

The Importance of a Senior’s Nutritional Guide

A healthy diet helps seniors to keep away from health risks such as constipation, poor memory, high blood pressure, reduced body temperature, wearing out of bones, low immune system and many more.

The guide provides information about meal plans essential for an observed balanced diet tailored to older people’s specific needs. It enables the older adults to make fitness plans necessary to avoid being overweight or underweight.

What to Expect

A guide to senior nutrition contains recommended nutrient intakes and their benefits to the body of the senior. It provides instructions on the types of food seniors should not consume and why they should avoid them.

A nutritional guide can also offer advice on what food to eat, what supplements seniors should take, and how many calories they should consume to ensure they remain healthy.

Essentials for Senior Health

For a senior to live healthy and avoid illness and other health woes, the following should be included in their day-to-day diets.

Protein

These are necessary nutrients in the body as they help boost the immune system. This makes the body strong enough to fight against disease causing agents. They are also important in repair and maintenance of body tissues and muscle development. Protein is also a source of energy. This helps in quick healing of wounds. The main sources of proteins include eggs, milk, fish, meat, and beans.

Fatty Acid

 

The fatty acids help in reducing inflammation which can lead to heart diseases, arthritis, and cancer. To avoid these diseases, one is recommended to eat food high in natural fatty acids like fish and also to take a fish oil supplement.

Fats

One should take a regulated amount of fats. They provide energy in the body and are also a source of some vitamins. They also contribute to skin and hair health. A high intake of fat is risky as it can cause heart failure if accumulated around the heart. Sources of fat include meat, nuts, milk, etc.

Fiber

 

Intake of food rich in fiber is necessary for keeping away intestinal problems such as constipation. Fiber is also good for lowering cholesterol and body sugars in the blood stream. Examples of foods rich in fiber are fresh fruits such as mango, sweet potatoes, and greens such as kale.

Calcium

High intake of calcium from milk, kale, and orange juice helps preserve bones from wearing out. It is also significant for bones and lowering blood pressure while reducing the risk of high blood pressure.

Sodium

 

Seniors should consider reduced intake of sodium. Reducing the amount of sodium intake helps to lower high blood pressure. Seniors are recommended to eat food that is naturally rich in low sodium. Examples of such foods include beans, nuts, vegetables, and fresh fruits such as mango. It is also recommended that seniors avoid adding table salt to meals.

Vitamins

 

A high intake of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, B12, and calcium help in the maintenance of bone density. Vitamin B12 is significant as it’s crucial for psychological processes and mental functioning. To ensure enough intake of the vitamins seniors are advised to eat fortified foods and whole grains, as well as fruit and vegetables.

Fluid Intake

It is wise for a senior to consider taking more fluids. Fluids facilitate fiber movement within the body through the intestines. Increased fluid intake helps one avoid dehydration which might lead to constipation. Examples of such fluids include water, milk, tea, and juices.

Guiding Seniors To Make Healthy Choices

 

In all instances concerning food, the most important thing to consider is safety. Meals should always be assessed to determine whether they could pose a threat to a senior.

For instance, very hard or chewy foods could be a choking hazard. It is also important to monitor caloric intake to ensure a healthy body weight and prevent weight loss.

Cultural preferences for seniors are something else you should never ignore. Seniors are set in their ways and dietary preferences due to religious or cultural factors must always be respected. Ensure you provide a healthy and familiar diet a senior is used to. This will encourage them to follow the guide without complaints. Having varied options can also be helpful.

Make sure you take into consideration the medical status of the senior. Ailments such as diabetes and chronic diseases require special diets, as recommended by doctors to avoid putting their health at risk.

Challenges Associated with Senior Nutrition

 

One of the main challenges to following the a nutritional guide is an economic constraint. This hinders the capability to attain all the required food for a healthy balanced diet.

It is recommended family members should help in overcoming the challenges by providing for the senior. It can also be helpful for family members to assist with tasks like grocery shopping if the senior is no longer driving.

It’s difficult for many seniors to cook food as recommended due to health problems. A senior home care provider can be beneficial in these scenarios. Long-term care provides seniors with a variety of healthy and delicious food options to choose from.

Dental problems can make chewing of hard food complicated. This discourages a senior from eating certain kinds of food. In such cases, the senior can use food supplements or their home care helper can also aid in softening the hard food substances.

Seniors taking certain medication may find it hard to follow the guide.  For example, diabetic patients may have restrictions from their doctor. Here, the patients can use nutritional supplements or look for alternative foods which encompass the same nutrients as those they are restricted from.

Encouraging Seniors To Follow The Food Guide

Many seniors are resistant to changes in diet. To encourage them to follow the nutritional guide you should practice mixing the advised food necessary for a healthy diet with what seniors like.

Seniors also resent being singled out, so giving them choice and eating in a communal setting can help inspire them to make healthier choices.

Understanding the Options for Adult Day Programs and In-Home Care

Posted by admin on June 27, 2018 - Adult Day Care

Age can leave anyone in need of a little help.

It could be Alzheimer’s, dementia, or any number of other debilitating conditions which cause a challenge. Whether a loved one needs help standing up from a chair, bathing after a long day, or making sure they get enough to eat, care is available.

The main question many have is whether the care will come to their loved one or whether the loved one should be taken to it instead.

Home care for a spouse, parent, or any other family member is something which requires careful consideration. The same can be said of an adult day care center. Here are some key differences between the two options, and how each can help an aging loved one.

What is an Adult Day Care Center? What Does it Offer?

We all care for our loved ones. You may be perfectly willing to help them out no matter how much assistance they need. But people have to work to pay the bills and may have plenty of other obligations which demand a portion of their time. This makes it wise to consider an option like day care for seniors.

A person who is left at home without someone to care for them may get hurt or become depressed due to loneliness.

Senior day care facilities are the type of location a person can take their loved one to in order to ensure they’re cared for. These facilities offer everything from health and wellness services to counseling to fun classes with opportunities to socialize.

Adult programs provide you with a safe place to drop an elderly loved one off while they’re away. Senior helpers and specialists who understand their needs can make the experience a pleasant one, making it more of a joy than a chore for your loved one.

Costs for adult day care services can vary depending on what they offer. Obviously, a facility which offers advanced medical care will be costlier than one focused mostly around social activities. But what if your loved one doesn’t want to go to a facility – what if they feel more comfortable at home?

Home Care Assistance: In-Home Services Can Be More Relaxing

For some elderly people, being taken to a special facility for care can make them uncomfortable. They may be agitated by the change in environment, or they may simply feel more relaxed in an environment they know well.

What’s the balance between letting your loved one stay home and making sure they’re ok while there? Using in-home care options can help you make sure your loved one gets the care they need even when you’re not at the house to help them.

Home care agencies offer specialists who perform a variety of functions. They can help feed, bathe, and administer medicine to the individual as needed. They can also help them get around, ensure they don’t hurt themselves accidentally, and can even help engage them in activities to help stimulate the mind.

This type of care is usually preferred by those who have more complex needs and thus require more intensive care. There are various options for this type of care, such as 24/7 availability, care with included medical therapy, and more.

The price of a home care specialist will vary depending on how long you need them and what exactly they’re asked to do.

Which Option is Right for Your Loved One?

We all want the best for our loved ones, and we refuse to stand by while conditions like Alzheimer’s make their life hard.

So, which is the best option for making sure the person is taken care of – adult day care or in-home care?

It all depends on the needs of the individual and what their preferences are.

If you are looking for what is the right type of care for your loved one – whether at a specialized facility or from a trained professional who makes house calls, don’t hesitate to hesitate to contact us. We are here to help!

How Those with Alzheimer’s Benefit from Adult Day Care

Posted by admin on June 05, 2018 - Adult Day Care

Caretaking for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease isn’t always easy.

It takes a lot of time and effort and can be, at times, emotionally draining.

As a caretaker, it’s important to acknowledge you need some help every once in a while.

But where can you find the help you need?

One of the best sources of aid is at an adult day care center. This resource is a great option whether you need someone to care for your loved one while you work, or if you simply need to take a break.

However, many caretakers are concerned about whether or not adult day care is a good idea for people with Alzheimer’s disease.

To ease your mind, we wanted to share some of the benefits of senior day care facilities, particularly for those with with Alzheimer’s.

Daily or Weekly Visits to an Adult Day Care Center – What Are the Benefits?

There are multiple reasons why you should consider an adult day care center for your loved one. Here are just a few of the benefits of these types of programs.

1. They Give the Caregiver a Much-Needed and Well-Deserved Break

As a caretaker, you’ve got a lot on your plate. You have to care for your own needs and of your spouse and children. If you’re like most people, you have a job which takes up the majority of your time throughout the week.

Caretaking for someone on top of this takes a lot of energy.

Every once in awhile you need to take a break.

Utilizing the services of adult day care centers can give you the opportunity to get some rest and get some things done around the house.

A lot of people use these services, too, as a way to ensure their loved one is safe and happy while they’re away at work.

2. They Keep Seniors Independent

As people get older, they often need a little extra help. Home care services and adult day care services are a wonderful resource. They give seniors the opportunity to get the help they need, while allowing them to remain independent. Independence is something we all crave, no matter what our age.

3. Adult Day Care Offers an Opportunity for Socializing

We all enjoy having the opportunity to go out and socialize. It makes life fun and interesting.

Unfortunately, many seniors end up sitting at home alone the majority of the day while their family members are off to work.

When they go to a day care for seniors, they get to talk and laugh with others, whether it’s with the caretakers or the other seniors.

Socializing can result in happier moods, as well as fewer instances of loneliness and depression.

4. Adult Day Care Provides Excellent Healthcare Services

Most adult day programs hire exceptional nurses to provide watchful oversight and needed healthcare services.

They do everything from administer medicines and check blood sugars for diabetics to getting to know your loved ones health status intimately.

Once a nurse gets to know an individual, they are often able to tell that something is not quite right. In some cases this means sending them to a doctor or the emergency room at the first sign of a problem.

Often it simply means chatting with the caregiver to relay information for a loved one who is often not able to communicate a problem themselves.

Do These Benefits Really Extend to Those with Alzheimer’s?

While the benefits of adult day care are clearly seen for the majority of seniors, what about those with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia?

Senior day care is a great option for those with Alzheimer’s, too.

Socializing with others of similar age can bring back cherished memories of the past.

Plus, a lot of senior day care facilities encourage seniors to partake in activities which have actually been proven to stimulate the brain. This is essential for those with Alzheimer’s, as it can reduce some of the symptoms of the disease.

The Alzheimer’s Association highly recommends caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s consider utilizing day care services.

One reason they recommend it is because socializing is good for everyone. Another reason is because of the variety of activities which can act as exercise for the brain. These include various art classes, music, and physical exercise.

Choosing the Right Adult Day Center for Your Loved One’s Needs

When you decide day care might be a good option for your loved one, the next step you need to take is to find the best adult day care center.

There are many home agencies which offer senior day care. However, not all of these facilities are going to be the right fit for your loved one’s needs.

It’s important to look for senior day care facilities which cater to those with Alzheimer’s. This isn’t to say they’re not open to all seniors. But it is important they have the knowledge, training, and experience to care for people with special needs, like dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Once you find a facility which offers specialized care, be sure to check out their reputation – both online and through word of mouth within your community.

It’s not enough to know how to care for seniors with Alzheimer’s. They need to treat them with compassion and kindness.

A facility which offers services for those with dementia and Alzheimer’s – and does so with empathy – is truly a gem within your community.

Home Care for Mom and Dad – How to Negotiate with Your Siblings

Posted by admin on May 01, 2018 - Adult Day Care

When problems arise, we have no doubt our family members will be the first ones by our side.

As lovely as the family connection is, disagreements arise when dealing with certain stressful circumstances.

One of the most difficult to work through can be negotiating with our siblings about home care or adult day for mom and dad.

We all want the best for our parents, but conflict can arise when it comes to the cost, who will pay, and what kind of care can be provided.

Is there anything which can be done to help keep the peace?

3 Steps to Negotiating Care for Your Parents with Your Siblings

When it comes to care for your mom and dad, you may think you know what you’re doing and what steps you want to take. But your siblings might want to go a different route.

Never forget your siblings want what’s best for mom and dad just like you do.

To this end, it’s vital for the peace and happiness within the family to follow the following steps to a peaceful negotiation about home care and other care options.

1. Talk as a Family Before Care Is Necessary

One of the biggest mistakes we see families make is waiting too long to make important decisions.

This should actually be done before your parents need senior home care or adult day care.

In fact, it should be done with the whole family – you, your siblings, and your parents. Your parents should definitely have a say in what kind of care they want and when they want to invest in any kind of senior care.

For example, some adult children are quick to put their parents in care homes. Not only is this not always necessary, most adults don’t want it.

Talk to your parents and find out if they want to implement services like senior helpers and adult day care which can help them keep their independence a lot longer.

2. As Often As Is Possible, Communicate In Person

A lot of families are separated by distance. This forces them to find ways to communicate. Some use the phone, others use email, and still others text.

Unfortunately, this can lead to a lot of misunderstandings.

If at all possible, have important conversations in person.

We understand this isn’t always possible, and in those cases it might be best to try video chat. You’ll be able to see facial expressions and body language, which add a lot to what a person has to say.

3. No One Sibling Should Take On All of the Responsibilities

When you communicate with your siblings, discuss who can take on which responsibilities. You should try and divide responsibilities as evenly as possible. No one sibling should feel like they’re responsible for 100% of their parent’s care.

Of course, it will never be perfectly even. There’s usually one sibling who lives closer than the others which ends up with more responsibility. There are others, too, which are better at financial matters and end up taking on the bulk of the care for their parent’s finances.

If things are too uneven, though, it will be easy for you to burn out.

But what if there’s a justifiable reason why your siblings can’t contribute more? This is the time when you should discuss getting more outside assistance, like senior home care.

Working for the Greater Good – Your Parents’ Health and Wellbeing

Though we hate to admit it, there are times when we get into a dispute with others and aren’t willing to budge. We’ve thought things through and feel like we know best, and when we feel that way it can be really difficult to compromise.

Unfortunately, this type of attitude can have a really negative effect on our family relationships. It can even adversely affect the health and well-being of our parents.

It’s important to remember two things.

First, there’s always more than one way to do something. Our way isn’t always necessarily the best way.

As long as our siblings aren’t trying to do something shady which will damage our parents’ health, happiness, or finances, it’s often good to take a step back and evaluate whether we can find a compromise or not.

Second, we need to remember, ultimately, this is not about us or our siblings. It’s about our parents. What will make them happiest and most comfortable? What will help them keep their dignity and a measure of independence?

Keep these things in mind and it will be easier to negotiate with family members and keep peace and harmony within the family.

7 Clever Options to Pay for In Home Care

Posted by admin on March 27, 2018 - Home Care

There comes a time in life when people just can’t do what they used to do.

When this happens, family members want to do all they can to help. However, with work and other responsibilities, many people don’t have the time required to provide the care their loved one needs.

In these cases, a home care service is a lifesaver.

But many people feel in home care isn’t an option for their family. It seems like an impossible expense.

We have good news, though. With a little time spent investigating, you might be able to find at least one way to cover the cost of a home care for your senior family member.

7 Clever Options to Pay for In Home Care

Here are a few clever tools families have discovered to help them pay for home care.

1. Your Life Insurance Policy

Typically, a person purchases a life insurance policy to ensure their spouse or children are cared for in the event of premature death.

At this point in your loved one’s life, though, the money in the policy might be put to better use.

Some policies allow holders to tap into the funds available to pay for certain senior services, like a home care service.

2. Evaluate Your Veterans’ Benefits

If your loved one is a veteran, they may be eligible for skilled in home assistance. This means the government will pay for a home aide to assist your loved one with:

• Bathing
• Cooking
• Medications
• Shopping
• Cleaning
• Running Errands

3. Consider Getting Long-Term Care Insurance

A lot of long-term care insurance policies only provide coverage for care within a nursing facility. There are some, though, which will pay for home care services. It’s definitely worth checking into, especially if you already have a policy in place.

4. A Retirement or Pension Annuity

Annuities help seniors turn their retirement savings into an income stream. They provide seniors with the security they had when they received a regular paycheck from their employer.

If necessary, allowances can be made to use the money in this fund to pay for in home care.

However, a certain amount of time needs to pass before you can make any withdrawals. And you’ll want to talk with a tax specialist to see how the government views the money in the annuity as well as that which is removed.

5. Medicare or Medicaid Benefits

Depending on your loved one’s financial status and the condition which has rendered them in need of in home assistance, the state might be willing to help.

Low income individuals depending on financial and medical needs may be eligible for in home services through Medicaid.

Medicare is somewhat harder to get money from. But there are certain conditions in which seniors are eligible for this type of financial assistance.  This is normally tied to receiving short-term skilled care through home health or through hospice care.

For those who qualify, the Medicaid home and community based services can provide some great long-term care assistance.

6. Your Family Might Want to Try a Bridge Loan

A bridge loan is a short-term loan which usually lasts no longer than a year. How is this helpful? On its own, it might not seem like the best long-term plan. However, it can bridge an in-home care payment gap which might happen if you’re waiting for your loved one’s benefits to kick in.

7. See Who in the Family Can Make a Contribution

Finally, you can ask family members to make a contribution toward your loved one’s home care services.

If they have the funds, they might choose to make a one-time contribution or provide a monthly payment instead.

The thing about this option is the link between family and money can get tricky. Therefore, it’s always best to get an agreement in writing. Many people will object to this at first. “We’re family. There’s no need for legalities,” they might object.

The reality is, though, a written agreement will protect each person involved. It is also a great way to ensure there are no miscommunications or misunderstandings.

Home Care Service Keeps Seniors Happy and Independent

The goal of senior home care is to keep seniors independent for as long as possible. The longer they’re independent, the happier they’ll be. This is possible by investing in senior home care.

With a little time spent investigating, you’ll likely be able to find a way to cover in home care costs.