What to look out for Holiday visits with our aging parents have evolved. For boomers, our parents may be showing signs of aging in ways beyond their physical appearance. The time to simply visit, assuming that our parents are okay is over for some of us. The assumptions are replaced by the need for a vigilant look at how our aging parents are really doing.
The following changes may indicate the need to take action to ensure your aging parents’ safety and good health:
1. Weight Loss
One of the most obvious signs of ill health, either physical or mental, is weight loss. The cause could be as serious as cancer, dementia, heart failure or depression. Or it could be related to a lack of energy to cook for a loved one or just themselves.
2. Balance
Pay close attention to the way your parent moves, and in particular how they walk. Pain can be a sign of joint or muscle problems or more serious afflictions. And if unsteady on their feet, they may be at risk of falling, a serious problem that can cause severe injury or worse.
3. Emotional Well-Being
Beware, too, of obvious and subtle changes in your loved ones’ emotional well-being. You can’t always gauge someone’s spirits over the telephone. Take note for signs of depression, including withdrawal from activities with others, sleep patterns, lost of interest in hobbies, lack of basic home maintenance or personal hygiene. The latter can be an indicator not only of depression, but also of dementia or other physical ailments including dehydration.
4. Home Environment
Attention must also be paid to surroundings. If you discover excess or unsafe clutter and mail that has piled up, a problem may exist. Scorched cookware, for example, could be a sign that your parent forgets if the stove is on. An overflowing hamper could mean he or she doesn’t have the strength and/or desire to do laundry. Check prescription bottles for expiration dates; and make note of all prescriptions your family member takes and place that information in your personal files as well as the elder’s wallet in case of emergency.
There may be other areas of concern, specific to your family member. Should this year’s holiday visit open your eyes to current and potential problems or negative changes in your parent’s physical or emotional state, then its time to put a plan of action in place. To follow are some steps you can take over the holidays.
1. Initial Conversation
Have a heart-to-heart conversation with your elderly loved one about their present circumstances, concerns and the measures they’d like taken to make things better. Introduce the idea of a health assessment appointment with their primary care physician. Would they feel more at ease if a home health aide visited a couple times a week? Maybe they have legal questions and would greatly benefit from an appointment with an attorney. Or they may need help with housecleaning or bill paying.
2. Identify Resources
While you may want to keep things light during the holiday seasno, do take this opportunity to collect all necessary information now to avoid frustration and confusion in the event of a crisis down the road.
Try to find a directory of senior resources and services by checking with a library or senior center for lists of resources. This list should also include friends, neighbors, clergy, local professionals and all others who your family member has regular contact with. In fact, if you haven’t already, take the time to visit with those friends and neighbors and make sure you have their current contact information and they have yours.
3. Prepare a To-Do List
Now is the time to begin compiling a to-do list to be implemented over a period of future visits. Medical information should include your loved one’s health conditions, prescriptions and their doctor’s names and contact numbers. A financial list should contain property ownership and debts, income and expenses, and bank account and credit card information. You should also have access to all of your parent’s vital documents that could include their will,power of attorney, birth certificate, social security number, insurance policies, deed to their home, and driver’s license.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Always Best Care Seniors Services meets with our families, assesses each families needs, sets up tours and accompanies the families on the tours to find the right community for our seniors. An article recently helps explain the industry and the right way to help a family. http://ping.fm/j4OD8
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Understanding the Roles of Formal and Informal Caregivers
Formal caregivers are typically paid providers but they may also be volunteers from a government or nonprofit organization. Where care is being provided in the home there is often a mix of formal and informal care provided. And the trend is towards using more formal care since, unlike the past, more informal caregivers are employed. They choose to remain employed but must juggle limited time between caregiving and maintaining a household and a job.
These added responsibilities often make it necessary to hire non-medical home care aides to provide supervision and help when the primary caregiver cannot be present. Or as adult day services become more common, caregivers may pay for this form of formal caregiving to get rest or to allow for maintaining some employment.
When care is no longer possible in the home, then formal caregivers come into play on a full-time basis. This may be in the form of a congregate living arrangement, assisted living, a continuing care retirement community or a nursing home. It is at this point that long term care can have a significant impact on the finances of the care recipient and a healthy spouse living at home.
Care facilities are quite expensive and the cost for maintaining a spouse in such a living arrangement may rob a healthy spouse at home of an adequate standard of living. It's quite possible the healthy spouse may end up with food stamps and subsidized housing where, before the need for a care facility, this may not have been the case.
Or it is more often the case that the couple recognizes this dilemma of splitting living arrangements in two locations and an attempt will be made to keep the spouse needing care at home as long as possible. This may help with the finances but often results in destroying the physical and emotional health of the caregiver by creating a situation where the caregiver has difficulty coping with the responsibilities and physical demands.
Another reality of providing informal care services in the home is the increasing need for physical and emotional support that often goes unrecognized until too late. As care needs increase, both in the number of hours required and in the number or intensity of activities requiring help, there is a greater need for the services of formal caregivers.
Unfortunately, many informal caregivers become so focused on their task they don't realize they are getting in over their heads and they have reached the point where some or complete formal caregiving is necessary. Or the informal caregiver may recognize the need for paid, professional help but does not know where to get the money to pay for it.
Other members of the family should be aware of this burden and be prepared to step in and help their loved one who is providing care recognize the possibility of becoming overloaded. It is also the job of a care manager or a financial adviser or an attorney to recognize this need with the client caregiver and provide the necessary counsel to protect the caregiver from overload. The advisor can also likely find a source for paying for formal care that the caregiver may not be aware of.
An overloaded caregiver is likely to develop depression and/or physical ailments and could end up needing long term care as well. The consequences of not being able to cope with the burden of caregiving might even result in an early death for the caregiver.
Formal caregivers are typically paid providers but they may also be volunteers from a government or nonprofit organization. Where care is being provided in the home there is often a mix of formal and informal care provided. And the trend is towards using more formal care since, unlike the past, more informal caregivers are employed. They choose to remain employed but must juggle limited time between caregiving and maintaining a household and a job.
These added responsibilities often make it necessary to hire non-medical home care aides to provide supervision and help when the primary caregiver cannot be present. Or as adult day services become more common, caregivers may pay for this form of formal caregiving to get rest or to allow for maintaining some employment.
When care is no longer possible in the home, then formal caregivers come into play on a full-time basis. This may be in the form of a congregate living arrangement, assisted living, a continuing care retirement community or a nursing home. It is at this point that long term care can have a significant impact on the finances of the care recipient and a healthy spouse living at home.
Care facilities are quite expensive and the cost for maintaining a spouse in such a living arrangement may rob a healthy spouse at home of an adequate standard of living. It's quite possible the healthy spouse may end up with food stamps and subsidized housing where, before the need for a care facility, this may not have been the case.
Or it is more often the case that the couple recognizes this dilemma of splitting living arrangements in two locations and an attempt will be made to keep the spouse needing care at home as long as possible. This may help with the finances but often results in destroying the physical and emotional health of the caregiver by creating a situation where the caregiver has difficulty coping with the responsibilities and physical demands.
Another reality of providing informal care services in the home is the increasing need for physical and emotional support that often goes unrecognized until too late. As care needs increase, both in the number of hours required and in the number or intensity of activities requiring help, there is a greater need for the services of formal caregivers.
Unfortunately, many informal caregivers become so focused on their task they don't realize they are getting in over their heads and they have reached the point where some or complete formal caregiving is necessary. Or the informal caregiver may recognize the need for paid, professional help but does not know where to get the money to pay for it.
Other members of the family should be aware of this burden and be prepared to step in and help their loved one who is providing care recognize the possibility of becoming overloaded. It is also the job of a care manager or a financial adviser or an attorney to recognize this need with the client caregiver and provide the necessary counsel to protect the caregiver from overload. The advisor can also likely find a source for paying for formal care that the caregiver may not be aware of.
An overloaded caregiver is likely to develop depression and/or physical ailments and could end up needing long term care as well. The consequences of not being able to cope with the burden of caregiving might even result in an early death for the caregiver.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Tips To Help Patients With Alzheimers
It is a little known fact that as many as 5.3 million Americans are living with Alzheimers disease and this number is expected to more than double by 2050. Alzheimer's destroys brain cells, causing memory loss and problems with thinking and behavior severe enough to affect work, lifelong hobbies or social life. Today, Alzheimers disease is the seventh-leading cause of death in the United States. Sometimes called Senile Dementia or simply Alzheimer's, Alzheimers disease is the most common form of dementia. Most people diagnosed with Alzheimer's are over age 65, but it can occur in people in their 40s and 50s. Alzheimers gets worse over time, and it is a fatal disease. The time from the beginning of symptoms until death ranges from 3 to 20 years with the average being 8 years.
Alzheimers affects entire families, especially as the disease progresses and affected individuals become more dependent upon their primary caregivers. In treating Alzheimers disease, it is common practice to include a professionally trained caregiver that will work with the patient and the family. According to Angela Graczyk, who is a Registered Nurse and Field Trainer with Always Best Care Senior Services, a solid relationship between the family and caregiver of a patient with Alzheimers disease is an essential component of providing effective treatment and care. Graczyk also says that a person communicating with an Alzheimers patient can find it to be very challenging. She notes, however, that decreased verbal communication does not mean decreased awareness. Most patients are very aware and feel a great deal of distress about their increased loss of ability.
Many homecare providers, like Always Best Care, provide tips to help persons working with an Alzheimers patient. Some of which include using memory aids such as labeling objects (i.e. closet, bathroom) and being aware that as Alzheimer's disease progresses, an individual's ability to name objects and use words decreases. Other tips include simplifying the environment for Alzheimer's patients and eliminating distracting noises such as the radio or television, or loud conversation. Families also should be aware that their loved one's ability to function and cope will steadily decline and may even vary from day to day. Flexibility is crucial. An Alzheimers patient may no longer find their favorite food appealing or may insist on wearing the same outfit every day. When this happens, simply change the menu or consider buying a few identical outfits.
There is also no single test to identify Alzheimer's disease and the causes are not known. Suspected causes, however, include genes and environmental exposure. A complete medical evaluation will provide a correct diagnosis of possible or probable Alzheimer's 90-percent of the time. Although there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease at present, there are FDA-approved drug treatments, designed specifically for memory symptoms occurring in mild to moderate stages of Alzheimer's disease. In addition, groups like the Alzheimers Association work for the advancement of research for this deadly disease. The organization also provides and enhances care and support for all affected as well as helps with programs to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.
For more information on Alzheimers disease, consult your local healthcare provider or visit alz.org.
By: Carolina Moore
Alzheimers affects entire families, especially as the disease progresses and affected individuals become more dependent upon their primary caregivers. In treating Alzheimers disease, it is common practice to include a professionally trained caregiver that will work with the patient and the family. According to Angela Graczyk, who is a Registered Nurse and Field Trainer with Always Best Care Senior Services, a solid relationship between the family and caregiver of a patient with Alzheimers disease is an essential component of providing effective treatment and care. Graczyk also says that a person communicating with an Alzheimers patient can find it to be very challenging. She notes, however, that decreased verbal communication does not mean decreased awareness. Most patients are very aware and feel a great deal of distress about their increased loss of ability.
Many homecare providers, like Always Best Care, provide tips to help persons working with an Alzheimers patient. Some of which include using memory aids such as labeling objects (i.e. closet, bathroom) and being aware that as Alzheimer's disease progresses, an individual's ability to name objects and use words decreases. Other tips include simplifying the environment for Alzheimer's patients and eliminating distracting noises such as the radio or television, or loud conversation. Families also should be aware that their loved one's ability to function and cope will steadily decline and may even vary from day to day. Flexibility is crucial. An Alzheimers patient may no longer find their favorite food appealing or may insist on wearing the same outfit every day. When this happens, simply change the menu or consider buying a few identical outfits.
There is also no single test to identify Alzheimer's disease and the causes are not known. Suspected causes, however, include genes and environmental exposure. A complete medical evaluation will provide a correct diagnosis of possible or probable Alzheimer's 90-percent of the time. Although there is no cure for Alzheimer's disease at present, there are FDA-approved drug treatments, designed specifically for memory symptoms occurring in mild to moderate stages of Alzheimer's disease. In addition, groups like the Alzheimers Association work for the advancement of research for this deadly disease. The organization also provides and enhances care and support for all affected as well as helps with programs to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health.
For more information on Alzheimers disease, consult your local healthcare provider or visit alz.org.
By: Carolina Moore
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Activities For Dementia Sufferers in Santee CA
My Elderly Parent Has Dementia: What Activities Can We Do Together?
by Emilee Seltzer
Caregivers for the elderly with dementia often find that coming up with activities for the elder can require much thought and effort. But they are vital to your parent’s health and well-being. Creating activities can really be quite simple if you follow some general guidelines.
Create meaningful activities
* Consider their interests
Depending on how severe your parent’s dementia is or their stage of Alzheimer’s, activities can vary; however, designing activities that involve their past interests are of the utmost importance. For example, if they love to garden, foster that passion with stimulating gardening activities.
What if your parent does not have either the physical or cognitive capability to engage in activities they once loved? Beth Kallmyer, Director of Family and Information Services for the Alzheimer’s Association, recommends adjusting activities to fit their abilities. If your parent loved gardening but no longer has the mental ability to engage in it independently, consider assisting them or simplifying the activity. You can go outside with them and do planting and gardening together, or you can bring a few pots with seeds inside the house for your parent to water daily.
If you need help with a loved one with Dementia in the Santee CA area, please visit www.inhomecaresandiego.com.
Credit: Always Best Care Senior Services – San Diego California (CA)
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
In San Diego CA, Have Family Meetings to Resolve Eldercare Issues
Having Family Meetings to Resolve Eldercare Issues
A crisis can bring a family closer together and illustrate strength and love; or it can drive a wedge of resentment between members.
Whenever a loved one’s heath, safety or wellbeing becomes a concern, it is important to be proactive and address your loved one’s issues. If the issues come to a point of crisis, families – often spread out across several states – need to call themselves together to discuss the changes which are occurring and will occur in the future.
If your family needs help with the care of a loved one, visit www.inhomecaresandiego.com for more information.
Original: Always Best Care Senior Services – San Diego California (CA)
Friday, July 9, 2010
In San Diego CA, Hear The Voices of Alzheimer’s
The Voices of Alzheimer’s
In the latest Patient Voices segment, producer Karen Barrow explores the frightening and confusing world of Alzheimer’s. She captures the voices of both patients and loved ones who are struggling with issues of independence, long-term care and making the most of the time they have left.
Hear the voices of Alzheimer’s at the HERE.
If you are needing care and assistance for a loved one in San Diego, visit www.inhomecaresandiego.com.
Credit: Always Best Care Senior Services – San Diego California (CA)
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Caring For Yourself and Your Spouse In El Cajon CA
Spouses Face Challenges in Caring for Themselves and Their Ailing Partners
They met on a blind date in 1949 and married two years later. They lived in the same Cape Cod-style house in Silver Spring for nearly 50 years. So when Leonard Crierie was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2005, there was no question that his wife, Betty, would take care of him at home for as long as she could.
Betty led him into the shower, helped him dress each morning and took him everywhere with her because, once he started wandering, as some dementia patients do, she dared not leave him alone. She learned how to change the colostomy bag he wore since he’d survived rectal cancer years earlier. She slept, fitfully, with a monitor by her bed so that she could respond if he
needed her at night.
“It was difficult, but I was able to take care of him,” says Betty, now 80. “Because it happens slowly, you don’t realize how bad it’s getting.”
She agreed to have Leonard attend an adult day program at nearby Holy Cross Hospital — he enjoyed socializing there — so that she could get a few hours’ break several times a week; she found a Holy Cross caregivers support group very useful. But she refused the pleas from her three adult children to hire an aide to help at home. “I always felt like I had it under control,” she explains, though her children thought the $18-an-hour cost also troubled a frugal woman who shops at dollar stores.
As the months passed, “we could see the stress level affecting her,” recalls her daughter Linda Fenlon. “The frustrating part was, we wanted her to have some independence, some quality of life. But she saw it as her duty in life to take care of him.”
For four years, Betty Crierie rarely asked for or accepted her family’s help, until a Wednesday last June. As she left her support group meeting, she remembers, “I got this funny feeling in my chest.” It worsened on the 10-minute drive home. She called her daughter and said, “I’m calling 911. I think I’m having a heart attack.”
Caring for a sick or disabled elderly relative exacts a toll — physical, emotional, financial — on any family member, but being a spousal caregiver brings particular challenges.
“Spouses are older and dealing with their own age-related health limitations,” says Steven H. Zarit, a Pennsylvania State University gerontologist. The tasks they shoulder have grown more demanding: Family caregivers now administer arsenals of medications and undertake procedures, from wound care to dialysis, that were once the province of medical professionals.
Continue reading…
If you need care and assistance for a loved one in the surrounding San Diego area, visit www.inhomecaresandiego.com.
By: Always Best Care Senior Services – San Diego California (CA)
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
In Santee CA, Can We Stop Mom Sundowning?
Can We Stop Mom Sundowning?
By Frena Gray-Davidson
It’s called sundowning because, traditionally it tends to begin around sunset. It’s the agitation time, which affects many who have dementia. It typically continues for a couple of hours and then may pass. It is most likely to start in late afternoon, although some people begin earlier and others reported as starting in the morning.
That’s untypical. It’s also untypical that someone begins agitated behavior in late afternoon and then continues all night long, but it happens. Whether that should really be called sundowning is something for a medical expert to decide. If I were a caregiver to someone with dementia whose behavior included agitation all night long, I’d be getting the help of a good psychiatrist.
Families tend to attribute everything to Alzheimer’s dementia, whether it is or not. You have other conditions as well. You could have Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome and Alzheimer’s. You could have flashbacks and Alzheimer’s. So it’s very important not to blame everything on the dementia.
Sundowning needs a multi-faceted approach because we don’t know exactly what causes it. We can make good guesses though.
Five Possible Causes of Sundowning:
1. Fatigue
2. Hunger
3. Dehydration
4. Disorientation
5. Loss of purpose, belonging and sense of security
In my 20 years of working with people with dementia, Alzheimer’s and other dementias, I’ve learned that we can make affective care plans for sundowning. Each plan is particular to each person, but every plan should include some or all of the following.
The Sundowning Care Plan:
1. Study the typical pattern of your person’s sundowning
2. To decrease fatigue overall, encourage sleeping later and having a nap after lunch, if possible
3. Give a nutritious snack of, for example, banana bread and a sliced apple about an hour before normal sundowning time
4. At the same time, give a natural juice drink and plenty of water
5. Listen attentively to the feelings expressed by your person during time of agitation to learn what emotional issues are unresolved
6. Remember that, in sundowning, this person expresses real issues with which we can help
7. Plan for diversion at the expected sundowning time and increase emotional support
8. Use environmental support — music they love, lavender oil diffused into into the air (notably effective in reducing emotional stress responses)
9. Understand that agitation can be contagious and that your best contribution is to stay calm
I have been able to recommend this approach to care units, which have found very positive responses from the plan. I and many other family members have found it very affective at home.
It is definitely possible to reduce sundowning time and intensity and even to eliminate it altogether. While you’re working on those results, remember anyway that sundowning tends to reduce and eventually disappear as dementia progresses.
As a caregiver, not as a doctor, I can assure you that we can do a great deal to help as caregivers. However, not all caregivers can do this and that’s okay too. Caregivers can only do what they can do. We are all human and it is out of our humanity that family caregivers undertake the heavy task of caring for a family member with dementia needs.
One last suggestion: it is not usual that sundowning involves violent acting out or extravagant fear reactions. Such manifestations suggest a deeper psychiatric issue. Please don’t hesitate to see mental health specialists if you have questions.
Frena Gray-Davidson is a longterm Alzheimer’s caregiver and her latest book is “Alzheimer’s 911: Hope, Help and Healing for Caregivers”, available from Amazon. Frena presents dementia seminars nationally and internationally. Go to her website at www.alzguide.com and sign up for her free monthly online newsletter for caregivers. Email her at frenagd@gmail.com
For information about care and assistance for a loved one in the Santee CA area, visit www.inhomecaresandiego.com.
Original: Always Best Care Senior Services – San Diego California (CA)
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Aging In Place With Style And Grace In Bostonia CA
Aging In Place With Style And Grace In Bostonia CA
(ARA) – Aging in place – updating one’s home to accommodate changing needs and abilities as one ages – doesn’t have to mean sacrificing a home’s style and decor. From attractive lighting designed to work well for aging eyes to barrier-free shower stalls that compete in beauty and practicality with what you might find in a luxury community for those 55 and older, plenty of home modifications now make it possible to age in place gracefully and stylishly.
“It’s no longer necessary to give up your home’s good looks for a more institutional-looking appearance just to achieve a safer, more usable house,” says Eric Kozak of Premier Care In Bathing, leading makers of walk-in baths. “You can age in place and retain the style that makes living in your home comfortable and safe, and maintain your independence at the same time.”
With more than 78 million baby boomers growing older in the United States, aging in place – and how to do it well – is a hot topic for many homeowners. If you’re planning ahead or thinking it’s now time to update your home to accommodate changing needs, keep a few things in mind:
Kitchens and baths are commonly the most challenging rooms in the house for people, like many seniors, with mobility issues. Updating these rooms can go a long way toward helping you stay in and enjoy your own home for as long as possible. “Bathrooms, in particular, pose safety issues. Falls are one of the leading reasons seniors must go into nursing homes and most home falls occur in the bathroom,” Kozak says.
When renovating your bathroom, focus on the important elements, including low-level entryways, accessible grab bars, easy grip faucets and showers with safety screens. Other elements include safer, slip-resistant flooring; brighter, more flexible lighting; and safe access to the shower or bathtub.
Walk in showers
Stepping in and out of a tub or shower is one of the riskiest times for people with mobility challenges. Appropriately placed grab bars – now available in designer colors and textures – can help improve safety in these high-risk areas. Another option that’s high on safety and style is to replace a current shower or tub with a walk-in shower like those now offered by Premier Care In Bathing, whose walk-in bathtubs have made bathing safer and more convenient for thousands of Americans with mobility issues. The walk-in showers are a good option for wheelchair users or in rooms where a full-size tub is not practical.
Two size options, 48 inches and 60 inches, ensure convenience and luxury. A waist-high, folding screen, designed with proprietary technology, keeps water inside the shower and not on the bathroom floor. From the waist up, you can add your own decorative touch with the shower curtain design of your choice, hung on a gracefully curved rod like the ones found in quality hotel baths. Dual Delta showerheads provide the option of an overhead shower or a hand-held shower, and a safe and relaxing folding seat. Installation can often be done in just a day or two.
Visit www.premier-bathrooms.com or call (800) 578-2899 to learn more.
Flooring
That tile floor that you adored in your 40s can be a slip hazard when you reach your 70s. In fact, any hard bathroom floor surface such as linoleum, vinyl or tile can put you at increased risk of slipping and falling. Carpeting might be a better option, one that is slip resistant and warmer and softer on the feet. Many manufacturers now offer materials that are attractive and able to repel moisture. If installing carpeting isn’t practical for you, use area rugs with sticky backing to help ensure safe footing in high traffic areas, like in front of the commode, sink and bathtub.
Lighting
Aging eyes not only need more light to see, they need better quality light, especially at night. Avoid dim lighting; older eyes need several times more light than younger eyes to see well, experts say. Increase the amount of light in your bathroom and consider using naturally brighter bulbs like compact fluorescent bulbs, which are also energy-efficient.
Be aware of glare, as well. Bright lights bouncing off all-white bathroom surfaces can create glare that makes it difficult to see and navigate for older people, especially at night when they may not be fully awake. If your bath is all white, paint the walls a light color in a finish that will help reduce glare. Use area rugs on white floors to help break up the expanse of white and reduce glare.
“Boomers aging in place will find more options than ever before to do so with style,” Kozak says. “Safety should be your first concern, but you can also enjoy good style and beautiful design as well.”
Courtesy of ARAcontent
At Always Best Care Senior Services we understand the needs of our elderly loved ones. If you need care and assistance for someone in your family, visit www.inhomecaresandiego.com.
Original: Always Best Care Senior Services – San Diego California (CA)
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Finding a New Focus In La Mesa CA
Vision is so important and most of us need to make an appointment to have our eyes checked. It is also important to make sure our elderly loved ones aging eyes are checked for problems. At Always Best Care Senior Services we care about our seniors and their vision. If you would like information about our care and assistance services, visit www.inhomecaresandiego.com.
Finding a New Focus
Advances in lenses help address two vision problems at one time
Getting cataracts? Need reading glasses too?
Several new options for artificial lenses can both eliminate cataracts and correct vision problems so you may not need glasses ever again.
The same crystalline lens in the eye creates both presbyopia and cataracts. In healthy, young eyes, the lens, which sits behind the iris, adjusts automatically for near, intermediate and long-range vision. But over time it becomes harder and less able to focus on objects close up, a condition called presbyopia, which most people notice around age 40, when they need help to read. Eventually, the lens can become cloudy and opaque as a cataract forms. By age 65, about half of all Americans have some lens clouding, and by age 75 as many as 70% of Americans have significantly impaired vision due to cataracts.
Read more from the Wall Street Journal
By: Always Best Care Senior Services – San Diego California (CA)
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Elderly in Home Care Doesn’t Mean a Lack of Socialization In San Diego CA
Elderly in Home Care Doesn’t Mean a Lack of Socialization In San Diego CA
By Gary M Skole
While the vast majority of seniors prefer to age in one place, many seek assistance from home health companies and assistant living services because of an increased need for personal assistance or in home care. Numerous studies have been conducted that show that seniors having social connections through family members, friends, social organizations, even companion animals is directly linked with their overall good health, prolonged survival from serious illness, and longevity in general. As seniors age, the need for socialization is even more important to help maintain overall good health. Evidence of the connection between a strong social connection and good health include:
• Studies show that people who are able to get out and interact and spend more time with people during cold/flu season actually get fewer colds and illnesses than those who spend most of their time alone.
• People that have companion animals to interact have fewer illnesses that people who do not have a companion animal.
• People who use words such as “I’, “mine”, and “me” often during casual conversation are more susceptible to heart attacks than those whose conversations don’t focus on themselves.
• Our immune system has natural killer cell activity that is negatively affected by a lack of social support.
• Our natural killer cells are more sluggish if we are lonely.
• Feeling grateful for what we have in life is associated with better physical and emotional health. The elderly can be at risk of isolation, which can directly affect overall health and longevity. If one spouse becomes ill, the other spouse tends to be the primary caregiver, which can consume much of their time.
Caring for an ailing spouse can lead to isolation from the people and activities that were once enjoyed together on a regular basis. Seniors may also face the loss of a spouse. This event often further isolates you from some of the activities that you might have once enjoyed as a couple, as well as isolation from some of the friends that you interacted with together. Seniors are also at risk of decreased socialization as they age if they can no longer drive. Giving up driving for many means giving up on independence and access to the people and activities they rely on for social support. It’s critical to take into account the importance of socialization as we age. Getting the personal care that is needed doesn’t have to eliminate the opportunity to maintain social connections.
Most communities have resources for seniors to foster good health and social connections. Many towns offer a variety of activities through local seniors’ centers, support groups, libraries,religious organizations and active retirement communities. For those unable live independently, assisted living communities and home care companies offer a variety of services. Seniors should be encouraged to participate in assisted living community activities and outings. Those living at home should be encouraged to look for the right home care company-one that recognizes the value of a support network and social connections. The elderly no longer need to sacrifice socialization for quality senior care.
For article source, click HERE
To learn more about Always Best Care Services, visit www.inhomecaresandiego.com or call us at 619-757-1114.
Credit: Always Best Care Senior Services – San Diego California (CA)
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Caring for the Caregiver In San Diego CA
Caring for the Caregiver
By David Hart, MS, MFTI
Clinical Consultant to Always Best Care of San Diego CA, The Leader in In-Home Care and FREE Assisted Living Placement
With the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease increasing in the United States and around the world, the number of caregivers called upon to provide assistance to their loved one is also quietly multiplying. According to the 2009 Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures published by the Alzheimer’s Association, almost 10 million Americans provide unpaid care for a person with Alzheimer’s disease. In 2008 alone, these caregivers provided 8.5 billion hours of care, a contribution to the nation valued at $94 billion. This number represents an average of 16.6 hours of care per caregiver per week equaling 863 hours of care per caregiver per year. Reading this aloud would make the average person stressed-out and tired – nothing close to what a caregiver may feel on a daily basis.
The negative impact of care giving on the caregiver has been well documented. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 40% of family and other unpaid caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia, rate the emotional stress of care giving as high or very high. Additionally, these caregivers are more likely than non-caregivers to report their health is fair or poor. In a study published in the Journal of Advanced Nursing, researchers encouraged caregivers to express their thoughts about factors that cultivate a poor quality of life and many respondents noted “how stressful their situation was because of their extensive involvement in providing care”. Moreover, a study exploring the effect of giving care on caregivers’ health found depression was the most frequently reported mental health problem of caregivers. In combination, these studies suggest that a caregivers’ quality of life can be seriously impacted as a result of participating in the care of a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease.
Interventions that empower family caregivers to take care of themselves are in high demand as the number of individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease increases. A recent study at the University of Washington found evidence supporting the positive impact of community-based caregiver education on the overall psychological well-being of family caregivers. Researchers presented caregivers a series of six classes each held for two hours. Topics included taking care of the caregiver, identifying and reducing personal stress, communicating feelings in challenging situations, and mastering care giving decisions. At the completion of the six weeks, caregivers had a significant increase in healthy behaviors including eating a healthier diet and maintaining an exercise regimen. Additionally, caregivers improved their ability to care for themselves, including an increase in time for stress-management and personal renewal.
Respite and support services are an important component of caring for the caregiver. Caregivers frequently devote themselves totally to those they care for and inadvertently neglect themselves, reducing their quality of life. The support of family and community resources can be a tremendous help. For the past 13 years, Always Best Care has become one of the most trusted providers of senior care needs. With a proven track record in Assisted Living Placement Services, Home Care Services and Skilled Care for Seniors, Always Best Care has continually provided superior expertise and unmatched service though their network of independently owned and operated franchise offices located in ideal locations throughout the United States. We have care plans ranging from 2-hour sitter service to 24-hour live-in. Call us at 619-757-1114 to speak to a care coordinator about a plan that fits your need. Or visit Always Best Care of San Diego to learn more about the In-Home Care services provided.
Credit: Always Best Care Senior Services – San Diego California (CA)
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
8 Stages of Caregiving In Bostonia CA
The 8-Stages Caregivers Goes Through (excerpts from “Passages in Care Giving”, by Gail Sheehy)
1. Shock and Mobilization – Once the immediate crisis is resolved, you enter,
2. The New Normal – They begin to think, “Ok, I can handle this.” This reprieve may go on for months or years. Eventually there is a third turn.
3. Boomerang – Whoops, another crisis. This is when you realize you can’t do it alone and call a family meeting. If you begin to think you are responsible for keeping your loved one alive and safe, you will eventually find yourself at the next stage
4. Playing God – This can become an unhealthy co-dependant relationship. Eventually you will reach the next and most dangerous turn.
5. I Can’t Do This Anymore! – You MUST take care of yourself.
6. Coming Back – You have now reached the center of the labyrinth of care giving. Here, you must begin to appreciate all you have done and begin to acknowledge that your loved one is not going to return to the independent person he or she once was. You need to replenish your lifelines – friends, music, work, nature.
7. The In-Between Stage – is a momentous turning point for those who care for the chronically ill. Your loved one cannot be cured in an acute-care hospital, but he or she is not ready to die – and may live for years. But our healthcare system has little to offer at this stage, except round trips to the emergency room and readmissions to the hospital.
Most slow-aging adults today develop chronic illnesses. They are sent home quicker and sicker to you, the family caregiver, who has no professional training, no financial support and rarely any respite.
8. The Long Goodbye – This is a true gift and Always Best Care can assist you. With one of our experienced, insured and bonded caregivers relieving you of much of the work. You will now have time for end-of-life conversations and some kind of closure.
The passage to caregiver may well be the most memorable in your life. How you usher your mom or dad or spouse or sibling out of this world has so much impact on how you think about yourself: Am I a good person? Did I do everything I could? Did I let my siblings do some of the heavy lifting? Did I hold on too long? Let go too soon? Or did I share precious moments of full presence right up to the end?
Let Always Best Care, The Leader in Non-Medical In-Home Care and FREE Assisted Living Placement, help you on this journey. We have care plans ranging from 2-hour sitter service to 24-hour live-in. Call us at 619.757.1114 and speak with our care coordinator about a plan that fits your need or visit website – www.inhomecaresandiego.com.
By: Always Best Care Senior Services – San Diego California (CA)
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Always Best Care of San Diego CA Applauds the Social Security Commissioner
Always Best Care of San Diego CA, “The leader in Non-Medical In-Home Care and FREE Assisted Living Placement” Applauds the Social Security Commissioner
In its effort to improve and expedite the disability determination process, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced that it will add early-onset Alzheimer’s disease to its Compassionate Allowances Initiative.
The initiative identifies debilitating diseases and medical conditions that meet the SSA’s disability standards for Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Inclusion in the initiative allows for faster payment of Social Security benefits to individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.
Always Best Care of San Diego applauds Social Security commissioner Michael Astrue and the SSA for understanding that the cognitive impairment caused by Alzheimer’s disease leaves individuals unable to maintain gainful employment and deserving of an expedited disability determination.
Since 2003, the Association has been advocating on behalf of individuals with early-onset Alzheimer’s as they navigate the Social Security disability determinations process, and we welcome the SSA’s decision.
Until now, individuals with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease have faced a myriad of challenges when applying for SSDI or SSI, including a long decision process, initial denials and multiple appeals. Today’s decision will simplify and streamline the SSDI/SSI application process and decrease the wait time for benefits, which for some has lasted as long as three years.
For the past 13 years, Always Best Care has become one of the most trusted providers of senior care needs. With a proven track record in Assisted Living Placement Services, Home Care Services and Skilled Care for Seniors, Always Best Care has continually provided superior expertise and unmatched service though their network of independently owned and operated franchise offices located in ideal locations throughout the United States. We have care plans ranging from 2-hour sitter service to 24-hour live-in. Call us at 619.757.1114 to speak to a care coordinator about a plan that fits your need. Or follow this link to learn more about the In-Home Care services Always Best Care of San Diego provides: www.inhomecaresandiego.com.
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By: Always Best Care Senior Services – San Diego California (CA)
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
May Is National Arthritis Awareness Month: Get Moving In La Mesa CA
May: National Arthritis Awareness Month
“Arthritis is a debilitating disease that profoundly impacts the lives of millions of Americans on a daily basis,” says John H. Klippel, M.D., president and CEO, Arthritis Foundation. “The effects of the 46 million Americans with arthritis on the economy are enormous; the direct and indirect medical costs of this disease are estimated to be $128 billion each year. With the aging of baby boomers, the prevalence of arthritis is expected to rise by 40 percent – that is up to 67 million people – by the year 2030.”
Moving is the Best Medicine is the message for the 2010 Arthritis Awareness Month.
For information and assistance with elder care for an aging loved one in the San Diego CA area, please visit us at www.inhomecaresandiego.com.
Credit: Always Best Care Senior Services – San Diego California (CA)
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
2010 Taxes: Start Preparing Now In Winter Gardens CA
2010 Taxes: Start Preparing Now
You’ve probably just filed your taxes for 2009, but its not too early to start thinking about next year.
If you have a relative who is a resident of an assisted living facility or receives long-term care services at home, take note. They may be able to deduct those expenses from gross income on their tax return. If you provide a significant portion of that persons assisted living costs, you may be able to make those same deductions on your return.
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996 clarifies which expenses can be considered deductible. HIPAA requires individuals to meet certain criteria in order to take advantage of the medical expense tax deduction. Please contact your tax preparer for information about your specific situation …. and start saving your receipts.
If you need help caring for your loved one, please visit us at www.inhomecaresandiego.com.
By: Always Best Care Senior Services – San Diego California (CA)
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Elder Care Solutions – Dealing With Difficult Aging Parents
Ah, the empty nest.
Your teenagers have moved out of the house. You have time to take a yoga class, have lunch with a friend, or learn a new hobby-until Dad moves in with you because he can no longer live alone. Caring for aging parents is tough, no matter how much you love them.
Looking after elderly parents can be even tougher when Dad isn’t cooperative. And even though he’s a cranky old man, he’s your cranky old man-and it’s your job to find an elder care solution that works for him.
Contact Always Best Care San Diego for information about dealing with difficult aging parents. We have a solution that's right for you! http://www.alwaysbestcaresandiego.com/
Your teenagers have moved out of the house. You have time to take a yoga class, have lunch with a friend, or learn a new hobby-until Dad moves in with you because he can no longer live alone. Caring for aging parents is tough, no matter how much you love them.
Looking after elderly parents can be even tougher when Dad isn’t cooperative. And even though he’s a cranky old man, he’s your cranky old man-and it’s your job to find an elder care solution that works for him.
Contact Always Best Care San Diego for information about dealing with difficult aging parents. We have a solution that's right for you! http://www.alwaysbestcaresandiego.com/
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Elder Care Solutions In El Cajon CA
Elder Care Solutions – Dealing With Difficult Aging Parents
By Gregory Weldy
Ah, the empty nest.
Your teenagers have moved out of the house. You have time to take a yoga class, have lunch with a friend, or learn a new hobby-until Dad moves in with you because he can no longer live alone. Caring for aging parents is tough, no matter how much you love them.
Looking after elderly parents can be even tougher when Dad isn’t cooperative. And even though he’s a cranky old man, he’s your cranky old man-and it’s your job to find an elder care solution that works for him.
Here are 3 common elder care support problems and how to overcome them:
Medication meltdowns
Read More…
If you are needing help with the care of your loved one, please visit us at www.inhomecaresandiego.com for more information on the services we can provide!
By: Always Best Care Senior Services – San Diego California (CA)
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Hiring Private Duty Home Care Workers In San Diego CA
Hiring Private Duty Home Care Workers:
Why Work through an Agency?
One of the greatest long-term needs of older adults and those with chronic illnesses is for in-home, custodial care services. These workers are often referred to as home health aides, certified nursing assistants and custodial care workers. These in-home workers make it possible for people with functional limitations to remain at home in a comfortable, familiar environment. Home health aides (as we will refer to this class of workers) provide a wide range of assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, grooming, assisting with ambulation or transferring, toileting, feeding and providing medication reminders. In
addition, home health aides help with what professionals call, instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), such as shopping, meal preparation, making medical appointments, transportation, laundry and companionship.
Are you needing more information on home care services for your loved one? Please visit us at www.inhomecaresandiego.com and let us help!
Source: Always Best Care Senior Services – San Diego California (CA)
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Monday, April 12, 2010
Can Your Attitude Towards Aging Affect the Health of Those Receiving Long Term Care?
Among all of the suggestions available to caregivers for coping with the care of a loved one, some simple strategies that influence the attitude of care recipients are often neglected. Simply put, a more positive attitude towards aging can have a profound effect on the health of a care recipient.
Many elderly buy into the notion that they themselves are no longer useful and as a result make little attempt to keep themselves healthy and active. After all, they are getting closer to the end of their lives and have no desire to try new things or to challenge themselves or to eat or exercise properly.
There is a great deal of research evidence that demonstrates older people can learn, can retain memory and can be actively involved in business and in the community. The lack of physical exercise, social involvement and mental stimulation in older Americans often leads to these people losing the ability to use their minds and their bodies. The older person's negative attitude towards aging becomes self-fulfilling.
Many studies show that older people who are physically active have less joint pain, lower blood pressure, less depression, fewer heart attacks and a lower incidence of cancer. Proper nutrition also has the same affect on the aging process; it delays the progression of debilitating illness or disability. Recent research even indicates that weight loss and exercise can reverse the severity of diabetes.
Lack of social stimulation can also lead to poor health. Having an interest in something not only stimulates an older person's mind but also creates a better mental attitude which results often in better health. There is empirical evidence that using one's brain may prevent dementia in older age.
Why In-Home Care May be Right for You In Bostonia CA
Why In-Home Care May be Right for You in
I found a great article that talks about the many positive aspects regarding the use of In-Home Care for an aging loved one. If you have any questions at all about Home Care in the area, please visit www.inhomecaresandiego.com for information on how we can help!
“In-Home Care is rapidly becoming the most commonly asked for service among today’s aging population. In-Home Care involves a network of service providers who deliver personal care and maintenance right to the home. These service providers handle routine tasks including light housekeeping, meal preparation, errand running, mail sorting and a whole lot more. If desired, they can also provide assistance with personal care. “
By: Always Best Care Senior Services – San Diego California (CA)
Stress and the Elderly in San Diego CA
Stress and the Elderly
Contrary to what we’ve been led to believe, senior living isn’t always the way it’s portrayed in glossy sales brochures and magazine advertisements. Rather than being a carefree period of life spent on the golf course and traveling around the world, for many of today’s seniors those “golden years” are incredibly stressful times.
What causes seniors so much stress? Change is a huge trigger for stress and seniors definitely experience plenty of change. It can be in the form of declining health, death of friends and loved ones, moving, a bad financial investment, and the list goes on. Here are some other reasons why senior living is stressful.
Continue reading HERE
If you are seeking more information regarding care for your senior loved one, please visit us at www.inhomecaresandiego.com.
Via: Always Best Care Senior Services – San Diego California (CA)
In San Diego CA, How To Know if Mom Should Be Living Alone
Should Mom Be Living Alone?
Jacqueline Marcell
Recently I received a call from Michelle, an exasperated adult daughter asking if there was any legal way to get her elderly father to stop yelling, screaming and berating her, and to accept a caregiver so she could move out of his house. She had moved in to help him after her mom passed, but was now trapped as he refused to move to assisted living or accept live-in help.
Michelle started to cry, saying she had just called an agency where a man “laughed at me,” saying her father could do whatever he wished in his own home short of physically abusing her. Since I have survived the same situation with my own father, I knew the misery she was going through.
Continue reading HERE
Please visit us at www.inhomecaresandiego.com if you need help caring for an aging parent in the area.
By: Always Best Care Senior Services – San Diego California (CA)
Welcome to Our New Home Care Blog for San Diego, California Seniors and Families!
Diane Mathis is a nurse of 25 years and runs all of our caregiving services. She interviews, hires, tests, trains and places our caregivers in all of our clients homes. Bill Mathis is a Certified Residential Care Facility for the Elderly Administrator and has been involved in Information Technology and health care for the past 25 years. We are committed to providing the best care and service to our communities families and seniors. Our passion is to help no matter what it takes.
Contact Us:
278 Town Center Parkway Suite 201
Santee, CA 92071
(p) 619-757-1114 ext 1
(f) 619-448-8078
Proudly serving the California areas of Santee, San Diego, El Cajon, La Mesa, Winter Gardens and Bostonia.
By: Always Best Care Senior Services – San Diego California (CA)
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
By working with case managers, social workers, discharge planners, doctors and families, Always Best Care Senior Services of San Diego provides affordable, comprehensive solutions to the challenges that are often presented when an aging family member requires additional physical and personal support. The hallmark services of the company’s business portfolio include:
Home Care - With the assistance of a professional geriatric care specialist chosen to specifically meet their unique goals, local seniors can maintain their independence while living at home. Family members are encouraged to take part in the free personal consultation, where Always Best Care Senior Services will create a detailed, written care plan and work with insurance providers to coordinate billing procedures.
Assisted Living - Free of charge, this service presents seniors with options for choosing the most appropriate living facility to suit their needs. “We drive our clients to and from the facilities, and can carry a mobile database to the client’s bedside. We work with all budgets as well. I can promise that our company will never exhaust another family with a “list”, or give clients anything but our personal attention,” said Mathis.
Personal Response - Through a partnership with ResponseLINK, Always Best Care Senior Services provides personal response systems to seniors. Over 100,000 Americans have improved their lives with ResponseLINK medical and medical emergency monitoring systems.
"Whether a loved one is living with Alzheimer’s, cancer or Parkinson’s disease, or simply needs assistance making a weekly grocery trip, Always Best Care Senior Services of San Diego has the capability to enhance the life of the area’s seniors," said Mathis. "Our range of services can be tailored to meet a client’s particular needs, whether they require just a few hours of assistance a day or constant care 24 hours a day, seven days a week."
For more information about Always Best Care Senior Services of San Diego, please contact Bill Mathis at 619-757-1114 x 1.
Home Care - With the assistance of a professional geriatric care specialist chosen to specifically meet their unique goals, local seniors can maintain their independence while living at home. Family members are encouraged to take part in the free personal consultation, where Always Best Care Senior Services will create a detailed, written care plan and work with insurance providers to coordinate billing procedures.
Assisted Living - Free of charge, this service presents seniors with options for choosing the most appropriate living facility to suit their needs. “We drive our clients to and from the facilities, and can carry a mobile database to the client’s bedside. We work with all budgets as well. I can promise that our company will never exhaust another family with a “list”, or give clients anything but our personal attention,” said Mathis.
Personal Response - Through a partnership with ResponseLINK, Always Best Care Senior Services provides personal response systems to seniors. Over 100,000 Americans have improved their lives with ResponseLINK medical and medical emergency monitoring systems.
"Whether a loved one is living with Alzheimer’s, cancer or Parkinson’s disease, or simply needs assistance making a weekly grocery trip, Always Best Care Senior Services of San Diego has the capability to enhance the life of the area’s seniors," said Mathis. "Our range of services can be tailored to meet a client’s particular needs, whether they require just a few hours of assistance a day or constant care 24 hours a day, seven days a week."
For more information about Always Best Care Senior Services of San Diego, please contact Bill Mathis at 619-757-1114 x 1.
Monday, April 5, 2010
Stress and the Elderly
Contrary to what we’ve been led to believe, senior living isn’t always the way it’s portrayed in glossy sales brochures and magazine advertisements. Rather than being a carefree period of life spent on the golf course and traveling around the world, for many of today’s seniors those “golden years” are incredibly stressful times.
What causes seniors so much stress? Change is a huge trigger for stress and seniors definitely experience plenty of change. It can be in the form of declining health, death of friends and loved ones, moving, a bad financial investment, and the list goes on. Here are some other reasons why senior living is stressful.
What causes seniors so much stress? Change is a huge trigger for stress and seniors definitely experience plenty of change. It can be in the form of declining health, death of friends and loved ones, moving, a bad financial investment, and the list goes on. Here are some other reasons why senior living is stressful.
To continue reading, click Here.
If you are seeking more information regarding care for your senior loved one, please visit our website, Always Best Care San Diego.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Computers and Seniors
According to research, computer savvy senior citizens have fewer symptoms of depression than those that do not get connected.
In an ongoing research study, data is being collected regarding computer use and depression to determine the changes over time in physical health, mental health and social activity of older adults.
Researchers wanted to look into the impact of the growing use of computers and the thought that those using computers would report fewer depressive symptoms than non-users. “Given the social and informational nature of older adult’s computer practices, e-mail, chat rooms and health information gathering, for example, it seems likely that this would be beneficial to an individual’s overall mental health.”Triche said.
In the study, it was determined that seniors who were computer users reported significantly fewer depressive symptoms that non- users. Researchers also found that computer users tended to be among the younger members of the study group and had higher annual incomes while also reporting higher functioning in activities of daily living.
Study conducted by Edward Cisek, PHD, and Kathleen Triche, DSW, CSW
In an ongoing research study, data is being collected regarding computer use and depression to determine the changes over time in physical health, mental health and social activity of older adults.
Researchers wanted to look into the impact of the growing use of computers and the thought that those using computers would report fewer depressive symptoms than non-users. “Given the social and informational nature of older adult’s computer practices, e-mail, chat rooms and health information gathering, for example, it seems likely that this would be beneficial to an individual’s overall mental health.”Triche said.
In the study, it was determined that seniors who were computer users reported significantly fewer depressive symptoms that non- users. Researchers also found that computer users tended to be among the younger members of the study group and had higher annual incomes while also reporting higher functioning in activities of daily living.
Study conducted by Edward Cisek, PHD, and Kathleen Triche, DSW, CSW
Monday, March 29, 2010
Would you or your loved ones want to go to a nursing facility? There are options, check out http://ping.fm/xQ26e
Does anyone really want to end up in a nursing home?
Does anyone really want to end up in a nursing home?
As a care coordinator for seniors and their families, I have visited many different types of facilities in San Diego County. But none are as wonderful as a RCFE or Residential Care Facility for the Elderly.
These homes house up to 6 residents and are licensed by the state of California.
Each one is unique in its design, décor and size, from ultra modern to country to cozy. A few are actually located in vineyards. Some are calm and quite while others are teaming with activity.
When you walk into an RCFE, you are usually greeted by the smells of homemade cooking. RCFE’s take pride in preparing delicious meals for their residents with fresh baked breads, soups, baked chicken, roasts and casseroles and always deserts. And they take meal requests!
The caregiver to client ration is 1:3 or 1:4 giving the caregiver and resident more personalized time together including bathing, grooming and dressing along with a little extra TLC. They can assist with medication management all the way to Hospice care. Here there is always continuity of care making a more personal relationship with the caregiver, making a friend.
RCFE’s have private rooms for seniors and some have private bathrooms. Many of the seniors bring their own furniture from home as well as pictures and personal items that make it feel more like home, or it can be supplied by the facility. If funds are an issue many facilities have shared rooms available and are careful in insuring a good match for their seniors. RCFE’s are always a better choice than a nursing home.
For help in finding an RCFE or information contact us at 1-619-757-1114 or go to www.alwaysbestcaresandiego.com and fill in the Request information or the Online Inquiry form at the bottom of the page.
As a care coordinator for seniors and their families, I have visited many different types of facilities in San Diego County. But none are as wonderful as a RCFE or Residential Care Facility for the Elderly.
These homes house up to 6 residents and are licensed by the state of California.
Each one is unique in its design, décor and size, from ultra modern to country to cozy. A few are actually located in vineyards. Some are calm and quite while others are teaming with activity.
When you walk into an RCFE, you are usually greeted by the smells of homemade cooking. RCFE’s take pride in preparing delicious meals for their residents with fresh baked breads, soups, baked chicken, roasts and casseroles and always deserts. And they take meal requests!
The caregiver to client ration is 1:3 or 1:4 giving the caregiver and resident more personalized time together including bathing, grooming and dressing along with a little extra TLC. They can assist with medication management all the way to Hospice care. Here there is always continuity of care making a more personal relationship with the caregiver, making a friend.
RCFE’s have private rooms for seniors and some have private bathrooms. Many of the seniors bring their own furniture from home as well as pictures and personal items that make it feel more like home, or it can be supplied by the facility. If funds are an issue many facilities have shared rooms available and are careful in insuring a good match for their seniors. RCFE’s are always a better choice than a nursing home.
For help in finding an RCFE or information contact us at 1-619-757-1114 or go to www.alwaysbestcaresandiego.com and fill in the Request information or the Online Inquiry form at the bottom of the page.
What is a Home Health Agency in San Diego, CA?
Home Health Agencies offer professional nursing and therapy services in the home. These services, provided by Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, therapists and social workers include:
· Health assessments
· Patient education
· Caregiver counseling
· Physical and occupational therapy
· Taking samples for lab tests
· Wound dressing
· Medication training and compliance
· Hospice care
· Management of IVs and more
They also provide aides, who incidental to medical care, help patients with activities of daily living. Home health agencies rely heavily on Medicare for reimbursement for their services.
For more information about Home Health Agencies, contact Always Best Care Senior Services, 619.757.1114.
Monday, March 22, 2010
2010 Alzheimer's Disease Facts an Figures
The Alzheimer's Association released a report entitled 2010 Alzheimer's Disease (AD) Facts and Figures, giving readers some information on incidence, mortality, cost of care and the disease’s effect on caregivers in particular, and on society in general. Below is a brief summary of the report.
Incidence
An estimated 5.3 million Americans live with Alzheimer's disease and about 200,000 persons under age 65 suffer from younger-onset Alzheimer's.
Currently, one American acquires Alzheimer's every 70 seconds; by 2050, one will develop Alzheimer's in every 33 seconds. That is, by 2050, 11-16 million people are expected to suffer from AD and about one million of new cases are expected each year.
Death Risk
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the 7th leading cause of all deaths and the 5th leading cause of death in Americans aged 65 and older in the United States.
The number of Alzheimer's related deaths increased by 46.1 percent between 2000 and 2006, while deaths from other major diseases like heart disease, stroke, prostate cancer decreased by 11.1, 18.2, and 8.7 percent respectively.
Race Effect
Older African-Americans and Hispanics are at higher risk for Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia than their white counterparts. Blacks are 2 times more likely and Hispanics about 1.5 times more likely than whites to have the condition.
Healthcare Cost
In 2009, about 11 million family members and other unpaid caregivers gave 12.5 billion hours of care to persons with Alzheimer's and other dementia related illnesses, costing nearly 144 billion.
The paid services for Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 years and older with Alzheimer's and other dementia-type diseases cost three times more than care for those without the condition. In 2010, the cost for paid health care for people aged 65 and older with the condition are estimated at $172 billion.
The report was published in the March 2010 issue of Alzheimer's & Dementia, the official journal of the Alzheimer's Association.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Welcome to Always Best Care Senior Services San Diego Blog
Always Best Care Senior Services of San Diego helps the senior community with free Assisted Living Placement as well as In-Home Non-Medical care. With Always Best Care, you get a choice of the best Assisted Living Facilities, Residential Care Homes, Alzheimer's and Dementia Care Facilities or In-Home Care based on your individual needs. We can provide you with In-Home Care assistance from 2 to 24 hours a day. Our caregivers are experienced, trained, thoroughly screened, insured and bonded. Call us today. Always Best Care Senior Services will help you get your independence back.
Always Best Care Senior Services of San Diego helps the senior community with free Assisted Living Placement as well as In-Home Non-Medical care. With Always Best Care, you get a choice of the best Assisted Living Facilities, Residential Care Homes, Alzheimer's and Dementia Care Facilities or In-Home Care based on your individual needs. We can provide you with In-Home Care assistance from 2 to 24 hours a day. Our caregivers are experienced, trained, thoroughly screened, insured and bonded. Call us today. Always Best Care Senior Services will help you get your independence back. For more information, visit http://www.alwaysbestcaresandiego.com/
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