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    March 30, 2018 Uncategorized1

    5 Practices of the Best Caregivers

    Providing excellent care for another person is not always an easy task.

    However, the good news is that there are simple practices you can incorporate into your daily routine that will make you an even better caregiver. These are also traits to look for in caregivers you will work with from any home care agency.

    In this post, we will uncover 5 practices of the best caregivers.  This should help you spot the best caregivers for your loved one. 

    1. Lifelong Learners

    Acting as a lifelong learner takes many forms. The best caregivers know that there is no end to learning new skills and care techniques. Research in the medical field around caregiving and its’ best practices constantly changes and evolves.

    You don’t have to read voluminous research articles to keep up to date on these new advances. The US News and Health Report for instance has a Senior Health section you can refer to for up-to-date and yet simplified information on advances in senior care. A quick daily skim of the headlines in such publications should keep you abreast with the best knowledge.

    Another way to learn is to take continuing education classes. Find out if your local community college, fire department, public health department or even your favorite in home care provider has continuing education classes that help you sharpen your skills as a caregiver.

    2. A “Can Do” Attitude

    Growth happens when we are willing to move outside our comfort zones.

    In a study by Angela Duckworth , she found that talented school children who lacked what she calls “grit” – passion and perseverance to follow through with an original goal – were more likely to not reach their highest potential. Children who were less talented yet possessed perseverance to overcome obstacle often performed better.

    This idea of “grit” does not apply to children alone !

    Having an attitude that says “we can overcome any challenge we face” puts a caregiver in a state of mind to keep learning and trying new things. It is also this kind of grit that allows you to work with your family and home care agency as a team to arrive at the best care solutions for your loved one.

    3.  A Great Communicator

    The best caregivers are also great communicators. It is imparitive a caregiver share observations and communicate changes in your loved one’s behavior, physical, or mental conditions.

    It is a best practice to keep a daily note log to record activities, medication reminders, and important observations.

    PLEASE NOTE : If you are not the primary caregiver, then it is extremely important to look for this particular trait in your in-home caregivers. Great communication could save the life of your loved one.

    4. Proper Lifting Techniques

    Improper lifting techniques lead to a myriad of life long health problems. If you have a loved one who has impaired mobility, it is important that you learn proper lift and transfer techniques so that you do not inadvertently injure yourself trying to help him.

    Use a transfer or gait belt to help you transfer or lift your loved one. Here is an overview of how to use one.

    • Put the gait belt around the client’s waist over his/her clothing and buckle it properly in the front
    • Ensure the belt is snug with just enough room underneath to maneuver your fingers
    • Keeping your back straight, bend your knees and grip the belt tightly
    • Lift or move the client using your arm and leg muscles
    • Transfer client into the appropriate position
    • Remove the gait belt once the transfer is complete

    Practice lifting with your knees and elbows and the proper use of your center of gravity. You want to avoid lifting with your back muscles.

    If you decide to purchase a Hoyer Lift to assist with movements, please make sure to receive proper training on the equipment to avoid any accidents. If your loved one is on Medicare, part of the cost of a Hoyer Lift may be covered if prescribed by a doctor.

    Practicing better lifting techniques protects you and your loved one.

    5. A Caregiver is Completely Dependable

    Reliability is a key attribute of the best caregivers! Often, people who receive care cannot be left alone. Dependable caregivers communicate possible schedule conflicts ahead of time, and make sure the wellbeing of their charge is first priority.

    Great caregivers never want to cause stress for their clients or client’s family members. They understand others depend on them, and need to count on scheduled times.

    Closing Thoughts

    In this post, you have been introduced to the 5 best practices for caregivers: whether that is you or a hired caregiver.

    Did you find this post useful ? Bookmark it or share it with someone who might need it.

     

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    March 28, 2018 Safety & Injury Prevention1

    Do Urinary Tract Infections Cause Personality Changes

    Suddenly, mom’s forgetfulness has turned into full blown dementia-like symptoms. What would cause her personality to change overnight? Could this be because she has a Urinary Tract Infection (abbreviated as UTI)?

    Sudden personality and/or behavioral changes and urinary tract infections are conditions that are very common among the elderly. Conclusive evidence hasn’t shown how urinary Tract Infections affect memory. But, there have been reports, like this one ,where doctors have describe a cessation of personality changes after treatment for a UTI.

    An explanation describing a cause-and-effect relationship between the two conditions however, according to research literature, is still not clear. The fact remains however, that personality changes and UTIs frequently occur together in the elderly.

    How do you get prepared for such a scenario ?

    In the tips below discuss possible signs your loved one may have a UTI and what you can do to help so the situation does not escalate.

    Possible Signs of a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

    While symptoms may show up differently in different individuals, in general a combination of the following should alert you that a UTI might be present.

    It is also important to note that UTIs are more common in women than in men.

    • A strong and persistent urge to urinate
    • Complaints of a burning sensation while urinating
    • Urine that appears cloudy instead of being clear
    • Strong smelling urine (freshly voided urine is typically odorless)
    • Pain in the pelvic area
    • High fever
    • Shaking and chills
    • Nausea
    • Vomiting
    • Blood in urine
    • Pain during urination

    What Kind of Behavioral Changes are Reported to Occur with UTIs ?

    • Confusion
    • Agitation
    • Withdrawal from company
    • Frequent falling
    • Hallucinations
    • Manic/hyperactive episodes

    While these are just a handful of behavioral/personality changes you might observe, it is safe to say if you notice any drastic changes in your loved one’s personality over the course of a day or two, it is cause for concern. If you belive behavior changes might point toward dementia, you can learn more about signs of dementia in this article.

    What You Can Do to Help

    Any combination of the symptoms described above should immediately be reported to your loved one’s doctor.

    UTI infections are caused by bacteria that need to be treated with antibiotics. Failure to do so immediately can cause the infection to spread and cause sepsis – bacteria that now spreads into the blood and which then becomes difficult to treat.

    According to Anita Wafford LVN from Paramount Home Health, patients who experience UTIs often have drastic changes in attitude, cognition, and mobility. Bed sores and UTIs are even harder to detect when caring for someone with memory loss. UTI monitoring pads can help.
    https://dependabledaughter.com/product/pixie-smart-pads/

    Drastic changes in mood and behavior always warrant a call to your loved one’s doctor. Ms Wafford also recommends, once your doctor has been consulted and approves, that family members encourage food and fluids.

    “If they don’t want to drink straight water, you can offer cranberry juice, flavored water, or otter pops – they might laugh at it but works.”

    It is also important to encourage movement as much as possible.

    Fun Fact : While studies are not conclusive, according to the US National Library of Medicine, cranberry juice is known to be helpful in preventing the occurrence of UTIs. If there is a reason to grab a gallon of cranberry juice, this is it!

    The Good News

    The good news is that personality changes that occur concurrently with a UTI are usually reversible if you catch the situation early and seek treatment.

    The first step however, is to get help immediately if there is even an inkling of suspicion. When it comes to health matters, there are times when it is better to err on the side of caution.

    Closing Thoughts

    Do urinary tract infections affect memory and personality? That is still a question that has not been fully answered by medical researchers.

    However, there is enough evidence that the two can occur together.

    In this post, we uncovered symptoms to look out for in case of a UTI and the type of personality changes that could occur as a result.

    If you found this post helpful, please bookmark it or share it with someone who will find it helpful.

     

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    March 26, 2018 Fall Prevention0

    Weightlifting for Senior Adults – Do’s and Don’ts

    As we age, our bodies lose strength and bone density from around the age of thirty on. While this natural change in our make-up may feel hopeless and enevitalbe, take heart, you can fight the effects of time!

    Weight and strength training gives your body the extra boost it needs to remain strong and healthy. Weightlifting for senior adults offers many benefits including maintaining and improving muscle condition. Beyond that, there are emotional benefits to weightlifting for senior adults. People who engage in regular exercise generally report an increase in energy and positive feelings.

    Chris Corpuz, CEO of Reneu Health, believes exercise programs are important at any age. He and his team are licensed kinesiologists. They offer one on one training programs designed to improve strength, and combat the pain and weaknesses. Chris shares his list of weightlifting do’s and don’ts for adults over the age of 55.

    Do Consult Your Physician Before Starting Any Exercise Program

    This sounds like school house advice, but it is out there for good reason. Any time you intend to make significant lifestyle changes and put more stress – even the good kind- one your body, you should make sure you are physically ready. Your doctor can give you advice about appropriate activity levels. It is also a good idea to have a baseline physical to help monitor how your exercise efforts impact your overall health.

    Do Start Gradually and Listen to Your Body

    Many exercise injuries start from a place of good intentions. You are excited to charge into a new gym lifestyle. You join a gym, grab a dumbbell, give a great heave, and POP! There you are feeling pain and not the good muscle sore kind. When it comes to weightlifting for senior adults, working gradually up in weight is a great plan. While your 20-year-old self may have pumped iron like Popey, the more mature you should make sure your body is responding well to your new weight lifting routines. Your training plan should be based off your current health and abilities. If your need a little more support with mobility and balance training check out this article.

    Do Be Consistent and Keep it Simple

    Starting a new weight and strength training routine can feel intimidating. Just remember showing up and putting in workout effort should produce results. Muscle and strength gains are never overnight. Whether your goal is to walk across a room without assistance, or blast out 10 one arm pushups, consistently working at your goal is the only way to get there.

    Do Make it Social and Grab a Friend or Family Member to Join

    Social support often pushes people a little harder to reach goals. Connect with peers who are interested in weight training. Weight lifting for senior adults is gaining popularity as an important part of staying healthy and active. Some gyms even have special programs for adults over 65. Inviting a friend to your workout is a great way to bond and share a common goal.

    Don’t Perform High Impact Exercises

    High impact exercises are not necessarily better, and they are certainly harder on joints. The goal is to improve strength and mobility, and stressing joints compromises that goal. Concentrate on great form, and effective movements. Lots of jostling activity does not guarantee great results.

    Don’t Work Through Pain 

    We have all heard the saying “no pain – no gain”. Not true in weightlifting! While you may feel some soreness post workout. You should not feel pain during your workout, especially if it is sharp and intense. Again, listen to your body. Remember, gaining strength and muscle is a long game, so take your time.

    Don’t Do Exercises and Activities You Find Boring.

    Sometimes you may be tempted to do an exercise because you are “supposed to”. In reality, you are more likely to stick with an exercise program you enjoy. Experiment with different machines and free weights. Change your workouts up, add music, and have fun!

    Don’t Be Afraid to Add Resistance Training

    Consider resistance bands or cable machines at a gym. While this may not be what you visualize when you picture yourself weightlifting resistance training may be a valuable tool for gaining strength and mobility. Bands come in different resistance levels, and are great for recovery training.

    Don’t be Afraid to Ask for Guidance From a Professional

    Often, the biggest barrier to a successful training program is knowing where to start. Weight lifting for Senior adults is a specialty; and trainers should know specific things to watch for when creating training plans for older adults. Working with a professional trainer can set you up for success. You will receive feedback on your form, support, and accountability. Getting a personalized plan just for your goals and abilities may be the difference between thinking about weightlifting and making strength and mobility transformation!

    For more information about private weight training for seniors connect with Chris and his team at Reneu Health.

     

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    March 23, 2018 Home Care 1010

    A Daughter’s Guide to Arranging Home Care

    Most adult children arranging home care for a loved one are not experts. While there may be lots to discuss between doctors, driving, and family support, the process of bringing in a caregiver is pretty easy.

    Usually families realize a loved one needs additional support when there is an accident or when lapses in memory become regular and dangerous. So, arranging home care often coincides with major changes in health. 

    Once you complete the tasks on this list, you will be ready to confidently arrange for a caregiver to support you and your loved one.

    Talk to All Family Members Involved with the Care of a Loved One

    While this step may seem cumbersome, many well intentioned care arrangements fall flat because a member of the family isn’t onboard. Often, the person receiving care doesn’t feel the need to have outside support. Adult children happily step-in to help mom and dad with simple chores. But, as care needs increase the burden of care may become too much for one family member.

    It is important that you have open communication with your loved ones and family members. Talk openly about your concerns about arranging home care and open the floor to planning for the future.

    Asking for outside caregiving help is a smart move since easing into relationships with caregivers feels natural and can make the change easier.

    Determine When Care is Most Helpful

    Once you have spoken with your loved ones and family about the need to arrange home care, you should discuss when care is most appropriate. Your loved one’s lifestyle is unique, and home care services should occur when your loved one finds them most valuable.

    You should choose times based on the following considerations:

    Does your loved one get regular meals without help or prompting?

    If you answer no, then a caregiver or family member needs to be present during meal times to ensure proper nutrition. There are services like meals on wheels that deliver food and can cut down on caregiver support. But, proper fluids and nutrition are key to a healthy life. So, if there is doubt your loved one is getting appropriate nutritional support, then a caregiver or family member should help.

    Does your loved one need help with transportation?

    While your loved one can use ride sharing programs and public transportation, many people enjoy the flexibility and support of a caregiver providing transportation. Many clients choose one or two regular days to arrange home care. They set appointments and outings during the regularly scheduled times. This takes the pressure off having a stranger drive your loved one.

    Is your loved one falling, and is there a high-risk time of day?

    Falls are a big deal. Consider arranging home care during the times your loved one experiences falls. Bath times prone to fall events. Night time bathroom visits are also especially risky fall times. Make sure to set the home home up for success by lighting walkways and removing trip hazards. But, if this isn’t enough consider hiring a caregiver to help your loved one get around. You can even have a caregiver stay throughout the night to give much needed sleep to anyone else providing care.

    Is your loved one able to care for his or her own hygiene?

    Sometime people need help getting in and out of the shower, dressing, and looking their best! If your loved one is struggling to keep up with regular personal care routines it may be time to consider arranging home care. Caregivers can help your loved one with bathing, dressing, makeup, shaving, skin, hair, and mouth care. You may only need a caregiver to come in a few times per week to help with these tasks.

    Are there times you need to get away from the house?

    Often, arranging care is absolutely necessary for the wellbeing of the family caregiver. Family caregivers should take regular time away from caregiving responsibilities and remain plugged into personal activities. When arranging home care make sure to plan times that give a family caregiver the separation and support she needs.

    Make a list of the Tasks a Caregiver Can Help With

    Talk to your loved one about what she would like a caregiver to do. Visit with other family members and create a list of responsibilities you can share with your care provider. Duties to consider include light cleaning, cooking, transportation, specific personal care tasks, and ambulation support. For a full list of tasks most San Diego care provider offer, read San Diego Home Care – Everything You Need to Know.

    What are the Most Important Caregiver Qualities

    This topic should be part of your open family discussion. It may be uncomfortable to share a loved one’s personnel requests with home care providers. But, home care staffing is about skill and personal connection. You want to ensure caregiver meet all of your loved ones needs. It is also important to consider what care needs may exist in the near future. If your loved one will need more support with transfers and ambulation you want to make sure your caregivers are comfortable with changing job responsibilities.

    What Resources are Available, and What is the Budget

    As you begin arranging home care, you will need to consider what resources and family support you have to work with. Sometimes families will provide nearly all caregiving support with a few hours of respite here and there. Other times, a caregiving company will provide 24/7 care.

    San Diego home care costs range depending on how much care is needed. You may find some financial support through the VA, and family members often band together to support loved ones who need more home care. Do some digging into your loved one’s financial picture to get a solid idea of the resource you have to work with.

    Take Action

    You are now armed with a plan of care that meets the needs of your loved one. You can reach out to quality care providers like Green Tree Home Care for direct conversation about arranging home care, and how they can support your loved one!

    CONTINUE READING
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    March 21, 2018 Uncategorized0

    Preventing Caregiver Theft – 5 best practices

    Caregivers as a whole are loving and generous people who feel called to serve the elderly population.

    Unfortunately, seniors are at an increased risk for fraud and theft. Of course, you would only hire someone you like and trust.

    However, setting up your loved one’s home correctly helps protect your loved one and his caregiver.

    It is not uncommon for people with dementia to misplace items or forget conversations and gestures of kindness. This also makes them easy to exploit.

    The bad news is that caregiver theft is real.

    The good news? There are proactive steps you can take to protect your elderly loved ones against caregiver theft.

    In this post, we will go over 5 safeguards that will help in preventing caregiver theft.

    1. Protect Your Financial Information and Interests

    When working with a caregiver, make sure that payment, hours, and job responsibilities are clear and agreed upon at the beginning of the caregiver-client relationship. This ensures that there is no confusion about when and how a caregiver is paid.

    It will also eliminate grey areas that might lead to feelings of unmet expectations. Good communication and expectation setting goes a long way in preventing caregiver theft.

    Alternatively, if you work with a caregiver through a home care agency like Green Tree Home Care, the agency assumes the employer relationship. The agency pays the caregiver and provides a framework for job roles and responsibilities.

    A second precaution here is to never share access to bank accounts or security questions – no matter how much trust you may have built with the caregiver. Bank account usernames and passwords written on notes and checkbooks lying around the house are also a big no.

    Thankfully, bill pay products that allow bills to be paid automatically each month are easily available through the bank. Setting up bill pay for your loved one through their bank (or yours if you are the one paying) will ensure that utilities and services keep running while financial information is protected.

    If you are unable to personally handle finances for your elderly loved one and they are currently mentally incapable of doing so, in the state of California, you can hire a professional, licensed fiduciary to handle that.

    Keep Housing Interests Separate

    It is important to not roll housing into the compensation plan of a caregiver. This blurs compensation lines and creates legal issues should the caregiver-client relationship go sour.

    In California, the law heavily protects renters. This means that in a situation where the relationship has gone bad, you may have to go through a costly and long eviction process. If housing is offered at all, there should be a clear agreement or contract that is signed by both parties as to what that entails. There should also be a second contract that outlines the caregiver agreement.

    The bottom line here is to ensure that financial lines not be blurred during the relationship with a caregiver.

    2. Do Not Keep Precious Items or Cash on Hand

    If you currently live apart from your elderly loved one, it is advisable to inventory all precious/expensive items and check them into a bank safety deposit box.

    Large amounts of cash should also be kept away or deposited at the bank. If your loved one prefers cash, it is important to keep a ledger and track outgoing cash regularly.

    Alternatively, you can use an in-home safe to store some expensive items and cash.

    3. Consider Installing Cameras

    Installing in-home surveillance cameras can help deter theft. Cameras also help when following up on concerns and missing items.

    4. Practice a “No Guests” Rule

    Insist on a no guest rule at the beginning of your caregiver-client relationship.

    Friends and family of the caregiver who are not a part of the caregiver-client relationship should not come into the home under any circumstance. You trust the caregivers you work with, but limiting the amount of traffic is important in preventing caregiver theft.

    Another safeguard you can employ is to have caregivers log visitors who come into the home. Information should include guests’ name, the time they came in, and the time they left. You may also want to record the reason for the visit if it isn’t too intrusive for your loved one.

    5. Have Oversight from an Agency 

    The beauty of working with a home care agency is the added oversight the agency provides over their caregiver employees.

    You also have the opportunity to discuss any safety concerns you may have with the home care agency. At Green Tree Home Care for instance, you can reach somebody on the phone 24/7 if you have any concerns.

    Occasional visits by a caregiver supervisor is also helpful to ensure that concerns are addressed, and caregivers are changed if need be.

    Closing Thoughts

    This post is not meant to undermine the great work many caregivers do across the country for their clients. In fact a peek into our testimonials will show that most caregivers have the best interest of the client at heart.

    Unfortunately, a few bad nuts have made it such that precautions have to be taken to prevent caregiver theft.

    In this post, we provided five best practices to reaching this goal while maintaining a healthy caregiver-client relationship.

    Did you find this post helpful?

    Bookmark it in your browser or share it with someone so we can all prevent unnecessary losses.

     

     

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    March 19, 2018 Safety & Injury Prevention1

    12 Must-Have Home Care Supplies

    A question people often ask when they call us here at Green Tree Home Care is “what home care supplies do we need to have on hand?”

    This question is important both for the caregiver coming to your home and your elderly loved one.

    Each of the items on our list are easy to buy at your local store or on Amazon and will ensure that your caregiver has access to the necessary home care supplies that allow her to provide the best care.

    The last three items on this list will become essential in case of an emergency or natural disaster. These tools are not often used, but it pays to be prepared.

    First Aid Kit

    As our loved ones age, the risk for falls, skin tears, and injuries also rises. Having a first aid kit on hand allows your caregiver to provide care for minor non emergent situations.

    According to the Red Cross, a good first aid kit will have the following items :

    • 2 absorbent compress dressings (5 x 9 inches)
    • 25 adhesive bandages (assorted sizes)
    • 1 adhesive cloth tape (10 yards x 1 inch)
    • 5 antibiotic ointment packets (approximately 1 gram)
    • 5 antiseptic wipe packets
    • 2 packets of aspirin (81 mg each)
    • Blanket
    • 1 breathing barrier (with one-way valve)
    • 1 instant cold compress
    • 2 pair of non-latex gloves (size: large)
    • 2 hydrocortisone ointment packets (approximately 1 gram each)
    • Scissors
    • 1 roller bandage (3 inches wide)
    • 1 roller bandage (4 inches wide)
    • 5 sterile gauze pads (3 x 3 inches)
    • 5 sterile gauze pads (4 x 4 inches)
    • Oral thermometer (non-mercury/non-glass)
    • 2 triangular bandages
    • Tweezers
    • First aid instruction booklet

    The items in the first aid kit should regularly be checked for expiration dates.

    Witch hazel and/or Alcohol

    Witch hazel and alcohol are both mild cleansers for treating minor cuts.

    Sanitary Personal Protective Equipment

    Sanitary personal protective equipment that protect both the client and caregiver are essential to have on hand. These include:

    • Gloves: Caregivers will need this if they are involved in providing personal care like bathing or toileting help to your elderly loved one.
    • Facial Masks: These come in handy if either your elderly loved one or caregiver has an easily-transmitted airborne infection.
    • Gowns/aprons to protect clothes.

    Incontinence products

    Extra adult briefs and Chucks Pads (these are water-resistant under pads that can be placed underneath your loved one while they are resting in bed) are a must-have home care supply if your elderly loved one has had challenges with controlling bowel movements or urine.

    Transfer/Gait Belts

    Improper transfers can lead to injuries for both caregiver and loved one.Transfer or gait belts provide extra support for the caregiver to safely and easily transfer a client.

    How a gait belt works:

    1. Put the gait belt around the client’s waist over his/her clothing and buckle it properly in the front
    2. Be sure the belt is snug with just enough room underneath it for you or the caregiver to maneuver your fingers
    3. Keeping your back straight, bend your knees and grip the belt tightly
    4. Lift or move the client using your arm and leg muscles
    5. Transfer client into the appropriate position
    6. Remove the gait belt once the transfer is complete

    Adjustable over bed table with wheels

    An adjustable over bed table with wheels is useful especially for clients who have limited mobility. You can serve food on a wheeled table to make meal times easier and more effective.

    It is useful in administering medication and is handy in promoting independence even when your elderly loved one is bed bound.

    Skin Barrier Creams

    Skin breakdown is a common problem with our aging loved ones. It especially becomes a concern when they have limited mobility. Skin creams that protect the client’s skin are essential in this case.

    Pressure ulcers (also called bed sores) are known to occur with limited mobility as well. Having caregivers apply the appropriate skin cream to areas that are most prone to pressure ulcers – typically the bottom area, heels, elbows and the back of the head – encourages blood flow to these areas and reduces the risk of pressure ulcers.

    Rinse-free personal care items

    On those days when your elderly loved one does not want to be moved into the shower or bath tub, rinse-free personal care items are great for maintaining personal hygiene.

    Dry shampoos, leave-in conditioners and rinse-free body wash are all available from your local store or Amazon.

    Electrolytes and fluids

    Your elderly loved ones are at risk from dehydration and Electrolyte imbalances.

    Having electrolyte fluids around the house allows caregivers to regularly encourage intake to prevent imbalances and dehydration.

    To make sure you are giving the right kind of electrolytes and appropriate levels of fluids for your loved one, talk to your geriatric doctor.

    LED Flashlights

    In case of an emergency, have LED flashlight on hand. Make sure to show the caregiver where you store all the emergency equipment.

    Extra cell phone batteries

    In case of an emergency, your caregiver and elderly loved one will need to get and stay in touch with you or with local authorities. Backup cell phone batteries or portable chargers help prevent communication issues due to power loss.

    Fire Extinguisher

    A fire extinguisher to put out small fires is the last item on this list. If your home or that of your elderly loved one is not outfitted with one, today is the day to start thinking of doing so.

    Closing Thoughts

    In this post you we gave you 12 home care supplies to have on hand for your caregiver for everyday use and in case of emergencies.

    Each listed supply plays a role in keeping your elderly loved one safe and protected. Check out this article, San Diego Home Care – Everything You Need to Know, for more information about setting up home care.

    If you found this post useful, please share it with somebody who needs it.

     

     

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    March 16, 2018 Uncategorized0

    5 Warning Signs Your Loved One May Have Dementia

    Mom is always losing her keys. Dad keeps forgetting when his Doctors appointments are.  Everyone has moments of forgetfulness. But, when should you feel concerned your loved one is experiencing more than just your average mind lapses.  Below are 5 warning signs of dementia your loved one, and it might be time to bring the topic to light.

    1. Your Loved One has Trouble with Short Term Memory Recall

    Often, short-term memory loss is one of the first signs of dementia. While we all forget little things, a person with dementia risks life threatening lapses in memory. Stoves left on, plastic in the oven, or the inability to find home can lead to unsafe incidents. Your loved one may struggle with communication. Sometimes people struggle to recall everyday words. If your loved one is becoming a little forgetful, don’t rush to conclusions. Forgetfulness happens, it is a concern when it affects your loved one’s safety or ability to care for herself.

    1.    Your Loved One Has Out of Character Anxiety

    Dementia affects everyone differently. But, there are some commonalities people share. Changes in behavior such as aggression or increased confusion may happen toward the end of the day. This behavior is referred to as “sundowning” or “late-day confusion.” If you notice behavior changes in your loved one look for time patterns, and shifts in regular routines.

    1.    Your Loved One is Withdrawing

    Your loved one has started to show signs of social withdrawal. They have lost interest in activities or hobbies they once loved. They are not engaging with the world around them and they are sleeping more. Dementia patients can show signs of withdrawal for many reasons. Depression, loss of verbal communication skills, confusion, and feelings of isolation can all play a factor in you loved one withdrawing. Sometimes people withdraw because location changes and gatherings feel overwhelming and difficult to keep up with.

    1.    Your Loved One is Asking the Same Question Repeatedly

    Your loved one continually repeats or ask the question over and over again. Repetitive behaviors are common in dementia patients. They may repeat the same story, ask the same question, or even continually perform the same task. Short term memory loss is common in people with dementia, and may increase repetitive behaviors.

    1.    Rapid Weight Loss

    A lack if interest or difficulty in eating is a good sign that something has changed with your loved one’s health. With dementia, rapid weight loss can happen as the illness progresses. Dementia related weightloss may have many factors. The mind does not read the cues the body tells it. Your loved one may feel depressed and no longer have an interest in eating. He may not remember to eat or when he ate last due to short term memory loss. There may be cognitive changes in how he recognizes food as appetizing.

    Who to Call

    Loved ones suffering from dementia can display many signs. If you are concerned that you loved one showing these five signs of dementia you should consult with her Doctor. While an occasional mental hiccup be normal, it is a good idea to speak with a medical professional if your loved one has several of these tendencies.

     

    For more information on services available for helping take care of your loved one suffering from dementia please click here.

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    March 14, 2018 Home Care 1010

    5 Habits of the Best San Diego Home Care Agencies

    When it comes to home care, San Diego offers lots of choices. You may find choosing a provider difficult. But, the best San Diego home care agencies do much more than staff. They are partners in your home care journey, and often provide advice and support during difficult transitions.

    Poorly organized agencies can increase headaches and frustration. While the best agencies are burden lifters, with excellent support and transparency. Here are 5 habits the best San Diego home care agencies share.

    Great Agencies are Super Selective About the Caregivers They Hire

    Every agency says they have the best caregivers but that simply isn’t true. The type of caregivers an agency attracts depends a lot on corporate culture. The hiring processes the agency has in place determines who gets hired and might end up at your home. Great agencies have a dedicated team with clear expectations for every new hire.

    Great agencies are more interested in the quality of their caregivers than number of people on staff. Since there is lots of competition for great care professionals, some agencies hire every applicant and see who sticks. You want to find an organization that practices selective hiring. Look for agencies who have long relationships with the care professionals on staff. Ask what standards the agency goes by when considering hiring a new person. Find out what criteria makes a potential caregiver a poor fit and makes a star employee.

    The Best San Diego Home Care Agencies Offer Excellent Caregiver Support and Training

    Caregiving is a calling. Special skills around communication, personal care, and medical processes are important to the caregiving role. Great home care agencies support their caregiving team with training and coaching resources. Training often includes a combination of online and hands-on training plans. Great agencies see themselves as partners with their caregivers. They offer support for educational goals, health insurance, and work life balance promotion. Smart home care operators know well supported caregivers share their passion for the craft in the quality and commitment of their care.

    The Best Home Care Agencies are Hands-On with Client Service

    The best San Diego home care agencies look at the opportunity to serve veterans, injured, and elderly as a gift. Clients trust caregiver organizations with the most sensitive daily tasks. The agencies responsibility is to be 100% available to the client. The best agencies handle after hours calls within leadership team so someone familiar with your case always answers the phone. They demonstrate patience with callers no matter the nature of the call.

    Home care is very fast paced. Great home care teams answer questions and follow-up quickly to help families manage rapid changes. Your agency partner plays an integral role in your home care experience. Arranging home care for another person isn’t easy. Giving you support, resources, ideas, and regular updates are all part of great agency operations. For more information about setting up San Diego home care check out the article San Diego Home Care – Everything You Need to Know.

    Great Agencies Provide Field Oversight

    The best San Diego home care agencies know that excellent caregivers expect regular support and interaction from the agency they work for. Everyone likes to feel valued and it is especially true in the home care environment. Caregivers work very independentlyand can feel abandoned by supervisors without interaction. Great agencies realize they must have a strong field management presence to support the growth of their caregiving staff.

    A strong field management presence insures clients receive consistently high-quality care. Sometimes, familiarity and a lack of management contributes to a decline in professional boundaries. Regular field management visits keep caregivers accountable for meeting company standards. Managers can address any concerns about care, changes in condition, and answer any questions clients have on site.

    The Best Home Care Agencies Practice Fantastic Communication

    Communication sets apart the very best agencies. There are lots of moving pieces in the daily operations of any home care company. Schedules change, doctor appointments pop up, and personal requests ensure that home care companies cannot practice a set-it-and-forget-it mindset . . . ever. With all those constant changes, it is essential that communication channels remain smooth.

    Great agencies use technology to keep records and ensure services are provided as ordered. Good operators also used home based communication like a notebook so caregivers within the organization and authorized family members can communicate with each other daily. You should get updates regarding schedule changes and new caregivers coming to the house. The person providing care for your loved one should never be a surprise.

    What You Should Expect

    Your expectation for any home care organization should include several factors. Without a doubt, highly skilled, reliable caregivers are the foundation of your care relationship. You should also expect great agencies to practice excellent communication, field oversight, and ongoing training and support for caregivers.

     

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    March 12, 2018 Home Care 1011

    How Much Does Home Care Cost in San Diego 2020

    What is the cost of home care in San Diego? Great question – short answer: it depends! But, we will get into hard numbers farther down the article.

    Home care in San Diego is a slightly different beast then other areas of the country. There are a few unique factors that make this market a little pricier and complicated. Hourly costs are pretty broad between private caregivers, domestic referral agencies, and licensed home care agencies.

    The following factors influence the cost of home care in San Diego county. Understanding why home care costs as much as it does helps put you in the driver’s seat when creating a home care plan for your loved one!

    Licensure Adds Restrictions on Home Care Agencies but Not on Private Caregivers

    In 2016 home care agencies were required to join the Department of Social Services Home Care Licensing Bureau. As you can imagine, new government regulations add cost burdens to San Diego Home Care Agencies. But, the new licensing requirements create a more protected environment for consumers. Companies have to meet certain standards for insurance coverage, training, hiring, background checks, and record keeping.

    Unfortunately, the consumer protection requirements do not extend to private caregivers. While it is a very good idea to treat your private caregiver the same way a licensed agency would, many people do not know how to properly set up a private caregiving arrangement. For more information about San Diego Home Care, be sure to check out this article, San Diego Home Care: Everything You Need to Know. It gives deeper information about hiring privately, and how to work with San Diego agencies.

    San Diego is Experiencing a Caregiver Shortage

    The numbers of available caregivers go up and down all the time. But, the current trend shows more senior adults need care than there are caregivers available. This means that great caregivers stay busy, and care recipients must compete for the best, reliable caregivers. Years ago, San Diego home care agencies ran ads in the newspaper and Craigslist. Many caregivers would apply, and agencies could place the best applicants. Now, the hiring landscape for both agencies and private caregivers has changed dramatically. Hundreds of websites boast access to the best caregivers. Many of those sites have signup requirements and fees. Hopeful employers need to try several different channels to recruit the best caregivers. Social platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn may help connect you to excellent caregivers, but it takes more time than ever to find, recruit, interview, and hire great caregivers.

    Rapid Rise in Minimum Wage Rates

    First, most caregivers do not work for minimum wage. In fact, some caregivers make $20 plus dollars an hour depending on their skills and experience. But, as all wages rise, a ripple of wage increases progresses. In 2014, many caregivers worked for $11 per hour. Now the average wage for an agency employee is $14-16 per hour. Consider, every $1 increase equates to around $1.30 cost to the employer. And, small increases in hourly costs significantly affect overtime rates. Be sure to keep that in mind as you higher privately or compare pricing from agencies.

    Socio Economic Gaps Around the County

    San Diego is an expensive place to live. Some areas are significantly higher cost than others. Because San Diego ranges so much in affordability, there are pockets of caregiver shortages. Costal, and North San Diego county often have fewer local caregivers. You may have to look in surrounding areas for excellent caregivers. Sometimes, enticing caregivers outside their local area presents difficulties. Agencies may offer mileage for the best caregivers. The area your loved is in might affect of the cost of home care in San Diego.

    What are the Care Requirements of Your Loved One

    While many agencies and private caregivers don’t charge extra for more than one care recipient, others do. Make sure to clarify that point before you move forward with a provider. When you meet with a prospective care provider, he should ask you in-depth questions about the scope of care, and your expectations. Complicated dietary restrictions, specialty equipment, or behavior issues may limit the number of caregivers who are willing or able to provide support. Thus, costs may be higher. You should have a care partnership with your provider. All questions concerning payment and current and future job duties should be clear with a plan in view.

    Cost of Home Care in San Diego

    As of 2020, you can expect the cost of home care in San Diego to range from $13.00-$30 per hour. You might find private caregivers willing to accept $13.00 per hour. Most private caregivers charge $15-20 per hour. But remember, this does not include any of the tax, insurance, and management costs that are essential to protecting you and your loved one. San Diego home care agencies charge between $28-$34 per hour depending on the case and schedule. Of course, agencies are higher because they comply with licensing, deeply vet employees, carry insurances, and manage all employment responsibilities.

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    March 9, 2018 Fall Prevention0

    Simple Tips to Improve Mobility and Prevent Falls

    Falling is easily one of the greatest fears among seniors, and for good reason. According to one estimate from the CDC, 1 out of 4 people over the age of 65 experience a fall annually. This statistic is frightening enough, but it is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the broader ramifications of falling accidents among seniors.

    Here are a few more stunning statistics that highlight the necessity of implementing a fall prevention program if you are over the age of 65:

    • Falling accidents are responsible for 95% of hip fractures among the senior population and at least 300,000 seniors are hospitalized for hip fractures annually.
    • 1 out of every 5 falls results in a serious injury such as a head injury or fractured bones.
    • 8 million seniors are treated by emergency rooms for fall injuries every year.
    • Falling is the most common cause of serious brain injuries.
    • According to one study, falling accidents are responsible for a loss of $31 billion dollars annually.

    One look at those statistics and it’s crystal clear that falling is a serious problem that needs to be addressed among the senior community and their caregivers. So, what can be done?

    Improving Balance and Mobility May Be The Best Way To Combat Falling Accidents

    Impaired strength and balance are considered some of the strongest indicators of a person’s likelihood of falling. There are many other factors, such as cluttered living spaces, impaired vision, and complications from pharmaceuticals. But reductions in balance and strength are two of the most prominent causes.

    Luckily, these are two of the easiest factors to address because they only require dedication to exercises designed to improve muscle tone and balance. Proper exercise plans also offer unexpected secondary benefits to seniors who stick with them like heart health and improved jar opening.

    Here are a few tips to help you improve your mobility and balance and help you prevent the dreaded fall.

    1.  Keep Active to Prevent Falls

    Seniors have a tendency to live a more sedentary lifestyles as they age. However, it’s more important than ever to exercise because we lose muscle strength and bone density as we age. These factors add up to an increased fall risk and increase the likelihood of serious injury as a result of a fall. Exercise addresses decreases in physical strength and health.

    Try to find ways to work low-impact exercise into your daily life. Many people like to join walking groups that gather at chosen locations to chat and stroll at their own pace. This is a great way to keep yourself active, prevent falls, and also an excellent opportunity to socialize with others. If you are uncomfortable walking alone, you can find a caregiver who will relish the chance to get outdoors for a little leg stretch.

    It’s important to keep active, even if you are experiencing impaired mobility. Look into a bed or chair exercise program to help keep that blood flowing and get your heart rate up! Ask your doctor about exercises or stretches she can recommend.

    2.  Body Appropriate Weight Training

    Keeping up your physical strength is a great way to prevent falls and minimize their damage when and if they occur. Ask your doctor about how you should go about finding a weight training program that suits your specific health challenges. She will be able to help you formulate a specific plan with concrete goals you can shoot for.

    Don’t let age scare you out of taking the steps you need to take to keep yourself fighting fit! If you start slowly and work your way up (always check with your doctor first), you can build up strength and stamina.

    3.  Find an Experienced Trainer

    Once you have talked to your doctor and assessed your needs, you can find a trainer to help you put your plan into action. Find a trainer who has experience working with physical rehabilitation and has experience working with seniors.

    Discuss your goals and physical needs with your trainer. If possible, have him work with your doctor to maximize your physical benefit and reduce your physical risks. You’ll be feeling great and experiencing massive health benefits in no time at all with the help of a caring, experienced personal trainer.

    4.  Improve Your Balance

    Balance is obviously an important factor in preventing falls. Many seniors are turning to alternative forms of exercise to help improve their physical and mental well-being.

    Talk with your doctor about taking a class in Yoga or Tai-chi. These exercise forms improve a number of health problems common among the senior community. Both exercises can improve circulation, promote healthy hearts, boost flexibility, and alleviate depression.

    Many yoga and Tai-Chi schools offer classes specifically geared for older people and those with mobility concerns. It’s a great way to prevent falls, meet new friends, and keep socially active.

    5.  A Little Help from Man’s Best Friend

    You might want to consider working with a dog if you’re the type of person who likes animals. Walking or even just playing fetch with a dog is a fun way to get outdoors and exercise. If you don’t own a dog, this can also be an excellent opportunity to score some points with your neighbors by volunteering to walk their dog, or you could volunteer at a pet shelter.

    Interacting with animals also has some surprising secondary benefits. Studies have shown that petting an animal can reduce blood pressure, alleviate the symptoms of depression, and even help you survive a coronary event! Besides, who could resist those puppy dog eyes?

    Ultimately, when you set out to prevent falls you should have a specific functional goal in mind. Improving your strength and mobility through physical fitness should start with a doctor consultation. Take it slow, work your way up, and stay positive and dedicated to accomplishing your goals.

    Staying fit and exercising may seem a bit intimidating at first, but neglecting your body out of fear is one of the best ways to make your fears a reality. So, put your fears to rest, get out there, meet people, get fit, and prevent falls!

     

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