Keeping Seniors Safe in Cold Weather

Happy New Year everyone. Winter is in full swing here in New Hampshire and Maine. Winter in New England sure can be lovely but for our home care clients, their families and other seniors, winter brings it’s own set of challenges.

For primary caregivers of an elderly loved one, there are numerous things to consider to keep seniors safe during cold weather. Here are some things to consider:

• Increased Risk of Hypothermia: Seniors must be careful to avoid hypothermia. Some health conditions and medication can increase the risk of hypothermia and can make seniors less aware of a drop in body temperature. Regular checks from a family member or in home care provider are essential to make sure they are warm.

• Increased Personal Care Needs: Winter weather and dry indoor air can cause skin to become dry and irritated. Extra attention by caregivers and additional hygiene care is essential during the winter months.

• Increased Risk of Fall: Although there are always fall hazard to be aware of for seniors, winter weather adds a whole new set of fall risks. One slip on icy or snowy steps can lead to serious injury for a senior. In home care providers must take extra care in keeping the home and walkways clear or snow or ice. Traction Cleats for snow and ice are a great idea, they would even make a great gift for a senior in your life.

• Isolation Induced Depression: For seniors, getting out in the winter weather can be a real challenge. Lack of social contact, interaction and exercise can lead to depression. It is important for caregivers to keep this in mind and seek out safe outings or stay at home indoor activities. Family caregivers or in home care providers can help alleviate some of this through activities done together such as: games, baking, crafts, book reading, etc. Caregivers can also provide transportation to activities.

• Fire and Carbon Monoxide Hazards: As mentioned before, seniors are susceptible to cold temperatures. Oftentimes, to help with the cold, or to help in times of power outage, space heaters or generators might be used. These can be a fire or carbon monoxide hazard when not installed properly. Placing these appliances too close to fabrics (ie: curtains, bedding, etc.) or furniture can cause a fire. Without proper ventilation, they can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Caregivers can read instructions and check for installation. In-home care providers can check on seniors safety. Also, a check should be performed to be certain that fire and carbon monoxide detectors are all in working order.

The National Council on Aging has a great article on their website with more information on keeping seniors safe in cold weather. You can find it here.

Glaucoma Awareness for Seniors

 Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. It is often associated with increased pressure in the eye, known as intraocular pressure (IOP). Glaucoma can affect people of all ages, but it is more commonly diagnosed in older adults.

In the elderly population, glaucoma becomes more prevalent due to the natural aging process and other age-related factors. Here are some key points to consider regarding glaucoma in the elderly:

1. Increased risk: The risk of developing glaucoma generally rises with age. The most common type of glaucoma, called primary open-angle glaucoma, typically occurs after the age of 40. As people live longer, the likelihood of developing glaucoma increases.

2. Asymptomatic progression: Glaucoma often progresses silently and gradually. In its early stages, individuals may not experience noticeable symptoms or vision loss. Regular eye examinations are crucial for early detection and treatment.

3. Vision impairment: If left untreated or uncontrolled, glaucoma can lead to vision loss and permanent damage to the optic nerve. The peripheral vision is typically affected first, which can make daily activities challenging for older adults, such as driving or recognizing obstacles.

4. Comorbidities: The elderly population often has other age-related health conditions, such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. These comorbidities can influence glaucoma management and the choice of      treatment options.

5. Treatment challenges: Treating glaucoma in the elderly can be more complex due to factors like medication adherence, physical limitations, and cognitive impairments. It is important for healthcare providers to consider the overall health status and individual circumstances when determining the most appropriate treatment approach.

6. Regular eye exams: Routine eye examinations are vital for early detection and ongoing monitoring of glaucoma in the elderly. These exams often involve measuring IOP, assessing the optic nerve, evaluating visual fields, and sometimes employing imaging techniques to track disease progression.

7. Treatment options: Treatment for glaucoma in the elderly typically involves lowering IOP to prevent further damage to the optic nerve. This can be achieved through various methods, including eye drops, oral medications, laser therapy, and surgical procedures. The choice of treatment depends on factors such as disease severity, overall health, and patient preferences.

It's important for older adults to maintain good eye health and be aware of the risk factors and signs of glaucoma. Regular communication with healthcare professionals, adherence to treatment plans, and proactive management of eye health can help minimize the impact of glaucoma on the elderly population.

Home Safety for Seniors

Ensuring home safety for the elderly is crucial to prevent accidents and promote their well-being. Here are some important tips to create a safe living environment:

1. Remove tripping hazards: Keep the floors free from clutter, loose rugs, or any other items that may cause the elderly to trip and fall. Secure loose cables and cords to the wall or use cord covers.

2. Install grab bars and handrails: Install grab bars in the bathroom, especially near the toilet and shower area, and handrails on stairways to provide stability and support.

3. Improve lighting: Adequate lighting is essential to prevent falls. Install bright lights in hallways, staircases, and entrance areas. Consider using motion sensor lights to ensure good visibility during nighttime.

4. Non-slip surfaces: Use non-slip mats or rugs with rubber backing in the bathroom and near entrances. Apply non-slip strips or decals to slippery surfaces such as bathtubs and showers.

5. Secure rugs and carpets: Ensure that rugs and carpets are properly secured to the floor to prevent slipping. Consider using double-sided tape or rug grippers.

6. Organize belongings: Keep commonly used items within reach to avoid the need for climbing or overreaching. Rearrange kitchen cabinets and storage areas accordingly.

7. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors throughout the home. Test them regularly to ensure they are functioning correctly.

8. Medication management: Set up a system to help the elderly manage their medications safely. Use pill organizers or automatic medication dispensers to prevent errors or missed doses.

9. Bathroom safety: Use a raised toilet seat to make it easier for the elderly to sit and stand. Place a non-slip mat or adhesive strips in the bathtub or shower to prevent slips.

10. Emergency response system: Consider installing an emergency response system that the elderly person can use to call for help in case of a fall or other emergencies.

11. Clear pathways: Ensure that all pathways in the home are clear and easy to navigate. Remove any obstacles, excess furniture, or clutter that may obstruct movement.

12. Adequate heating and cooling: Maintain a comfortable and safe temperature inside the home. Ensure that heating and cooling systems are functioning correctly and have regular maintenance.

13. Fire safety: Place fire extinguishers on each floor of the house and near the kitchen. Educate the elderly on fire safety procedures and how to use fire extinguishers.

14. Stair safety: Install handrails on both sides of the staircase for stability. Consider adding stair gates at the top and bottom to prevent accidental falls.

15. Regular home maintenance: Keep the home well-maintained by checking for any potential hazards such as loose handrails, broken steps, or faulty electrical outlets. Address these issues promptly.

Remember, every individual's needs may vary, so it's essential to assess the specific requirements of the elderly person in question and make appropriate adjustments to ensure their safety and comfort.

Caring For Someone With Dementia

What Family Caregivers Need To Know About

Caring For Someone With Dementia

Dementia is a general term used to describe a group of symptoms affecting cognitive functions such as memory, thinking, and reasoning. It is not a specific disease itself but rather a syndrome caused by various underlying conditions or diseases. Dementia is characterized by a decline in cognitive abilities that is severe enough to interfere with a person's daily life and activities.

The most common cause of dementia is Alzheimer's disease, accounting for about 60-80% of cases. Other causes include vascular dementia, which occurs due to impaired blood flow to the brain, and Lewy body dementia, which is associated with abnormal protein deposits in the brain.

The symptoms of dementia can vary depending on the cause and stage of the disease, but they often include memory loss, difficulty with language and communication, impaired judgment, confusion, personality changes, and problems with performing familiar tasks. As the condition progresses, individuals with dementia may experience difficulties with self-care, mobility, and coordination.

Dementia is typically a progressive condition, meaning it worsens over time. However, the rate of progression can vary among individuals. Currently, there is no known cure for most types of dementia, but certain medications and interventions may help manage symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease. Supportive care, including creating a safe and supportive environment, providing emotional support, and assisting with daily activities, is crucial in improving the quality of life for individuals with dementia and their caregivers.

 There Are Many Types of Dementia

• Alzheimer’s Disease

• Vascular Dementia

• Lewy Body Dementia

• Parkinson’s Disease

• Krosakoff Syndrome

• Huntington’s Disease

• Frontotemporal Dementia

There are many challenges when caring for someone with dementia. Here are some tips to overcome these challenges.

 Communication

When communicating with someone who has dementia, it's important to remember that their cognitive abilities may be impaired, making it necessary to adjust your approach. Here are some tips to effectively communicate with someone who has dementia:

1. Maintain a calm and reassuring demeanor: Approach the person with a friendly and calm attitude. Speak in a gentle tone and use a relaxed body language. Your non-verbal cues can help create a positive and comfortable environment.

2. Use simple and concise language: Keep your sentences short and simple. Avoid using complex or ambiguous words that may confuse the person. Speak slowly and clearly, allowing them enough time to process what you're saying.

3. Be patient and allow extra time: People with dementia may take longer to understand and respond to conversations. Give them ample time to process the information and express themselves. Avoid rushing or interrupting them. Patience is key to effective communication.

4. Ask one question at a time: Present questions or information in a clear and straightforward manner. Asking multiple questions at once can overwhelm and confuse the person. Give them time to respond before moving on to the next topic.

5. Use visual aids and gestures: Visual aids, such as photographs or simple drawings, can help enhance understanding and memory. Pointing or using gestures can also assist in conveying your message. Visual cues often complement verbal communication effectively.

6. Maintain eye contact and show interest: Establishing eye contact helps to engage the person and shows that you are interested in what they have to say. Be attentive, actively listen, and respond with empathy. This can help build trust and create a positive connection.

7. Avoid correcting or arguing: It's common for people with dementia to have memory lapses or difficulties with reality. Correcting or arguing with them can lead to frustration and agitation. Instead, focus on the emotions behind their words and respond with empathy and understanding.

8. Use positive body language: Your body language should be warm, open, and inviting. Smile, nod, and use gentle touches if appropriate, as these can help convey a sense of comfort and reassurance.

9. Limit distractions: Choose a quiet and comfortable environment for your conversation, free from excessive noise or distractions. Minimize background distractions such as television or loud music, as they can interfere with communication.

10. Be flexible and adapt: Communication needs may vary from person to person, so be prepared to adapt your approach based on the individual's preferences and abilities. What works for one person with dementia may not work for another, so remain flexible and patient.

Remember, effective communication with someone with dementia requires understanding, empathy, and patience. By using these tips, you can help create a positive and meaningful connection with the person you're communicating with.

 Aggression

When dealing with aggression in a person with dementia, it's important to remember that their behavior is not intentional but rather a manifestation of the underlying condition. Here are some steps you can take to manage the situation:

1. Stay calm: It's crucial to remain calm and composed. Agitation can escalate if you respond with anger or frustration.

2. Ensure safety: Make sure that you and the person with dementia are safe. If necessary, remove any objects that may cause harm or create a potentially dangerous environment.

3. Identify triggers: Try to identify the factors that may be triggering the aggression. It could be pain, discomfort, fear, frustration, or an unmet need. Understanding the triggers can help you address the root cause of the aggression.

4. Redirect attention: Gently redirect the person's attention to something positive or engaging. This could involve changing the subject, introducing a favorite activity, or providing a sensory stimulus like calming music or a familiar object.

5. Validate emotions: Acknowledge the person's feelings without arguing or contradicting them. Use empathetic statements like, "I can see that you're upset. I'm here to help you."

6. Maintain structure and routine: A structured environment with consistent routines can help reduce confusion and anxiety, which may contribute to aggression. Stick to a regular schedule for meals, activities, and rest.

7. Modify the environment: Create a calm and soothing environment by minimizing noise, clutter, and excessive stimulation. Soft lighting, familiar objects, and comfortable seating can help create a more peaceful atmosphere.

8. Seek professional help: If aggression becomes a persistent problem or if you feel overwhelmed, it's important to seek guidance from healthcare professionals who specialize in dementia care. They can provide personalized strategies and may suggest medication if necessary.

Remember, each person with dementia is unique, so it may take some trial and error to find the most effective approaches to manage their aggression. Patience, empathy, and understanding are key to providing the best care possible.

 Confusion

If a person with dementia becomes confused, there are several strategies you can employ to help them:

1. Stay calm: It's important to remain calm and composed when interacting with someone who is confused. Your calm demeanor can help reduce their anxiety and agitation.

2. Reassure and comfort: Speak in a gentle and reassuring tone. Let the person know that they are safe and that you are there to help them. Use simple and clear language to convey your message.

3. Maintain a familiar environment: Keep the surroundings as familiar and predictable as possible. Avoid sudden changes or introducing unfamiliar objects or people that might add to their confusion.

4. Provide orientation cues: Remind the person of their location, time, and other relevant information. Use visual cues, such as calendars or clocks, to help them orient themselves.

5. Offer simple choices: Present limited and clear options when appropriate. For instance, if they are having trouble deciding what to wear, you can show them two outfits to choose from rather than overwhelming them with too many choices.

6. Break tasks into smaller steps: If the person is struggling with a task, break it down into smaller, manageable steps. Guide them through each step patiently and provide assistance when needed.

7. Use visual aids: Visual aids, such as written instructions or labeled objects, can be helpful in providing cues and reminders. For instance, you can place a sign on the bathroom door to indicate its location.

8. Maintain a routine: Establishing and sticking to a consistent daily routine can provide a sense of structure and familiarity, which may help reduce confusion and anxiety.

9. Involve familiar people: Encourage the involvement of family members, close friends, or caregivers who the person with dementia knows well. Familiar faces and voices can help provide comfort and reassurance.

10. Consult a healthcare professional: If confusion becomes a persistent or worsening issue, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional specializing in dementia or geriatric care. They can provide a proper diagnosis, offer guidance, and suggest appropriate interventions.

Remember, each person with dementia is unique, so it's important to observe and understand their individual needs and preferences. By providing a supportive and understanding environment, you can help manage their confusion and improve their overall well-being.

 Agitation

When a person with dementia becomes agitated, it's important to respond calmly and try to identify and address the underlying cause of their distress. Here are some steps you can take to help manage agitation in someone with dementia:

1. Stay calm: It's important to remain calm yourself, as your demeanor can influence the person's emotional state. Speak in a soothing and reassuring tone.

2. Create a safe environment: Ensure that the immediate surroundings are safe and free from any potential hazards. Reduce noise and other stimuli that might be causing agitation, such as loud music or excessive activity.

3. Validate their feelings: Acknowledge the person's feelings and empathize with their frustration or anxiety, even if you don't fully understand the cause. Let them know you are there to help and support them.

4. Identify triggers: Try to identify any potential triggers for the agitation. It could be physical discomfort, hunger, thirst, fatigue, noise, or unfamiliar surroundings. Understanding the trigger can help you address the root cause.

5. Maintain a routine: People with dementia often benefit from having a regular routine. Familiarity and predictability can help reduce agitation. Stick to a consistent schedule for daily activities, meals, and rest.

6. Offer reassurance: Provide reassurance and comfort to the person with dementia. Use gentle touch, if appropriate, to convey care and support. Reassure them that they are safe and that you are there to help.

7. Redirect their attention: If the person is fixated on a particular topic or is upset about something, try to redirect their attention to a different activity or subject. Engage them in a calming activity they enjoy or reminisce about positive memories.

8. Use calming techniques: Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, gentle music, aromatherapy, or a comforting object can help promote relaxation. Experiment with different approaches to see what works best for the individual.

9. Consult a healthcare professional: If agitation becomes a persistent or escalating issue, it may be beneficial to seek guidance from a healthcare professional who specializes in dementia care. They can provide additional strategies and, if necessary, evaluate the person's medication regimen.

Remember, each person with dementia is unique, and what works for one individual may not work for another. It's important to be patient and understanding while trying different approaches to manage agitation

Summer Activities for Seniors with Dementia

With good planning and safety in mind, someone who is losing their memory can still have an enjoyable summer and spend time outdoors. People living with dementia still need to keep their minds and bodies active.

Summer activities for your elderly loved one should take place at cooler times and avoid the heat of the day. Always keep water with you and bring something to provide shade if the activity is in the direct sun.

Watch for signs of heat stroke which include headache, confusion, nausea and dizziness, raised body temperature, flushed look with dry skin and a rapid or weak pulse. If you see any of these signs get them into a cooler location immediately.

Other items to keep with you may include sunscreen, a loose hat, proper clothing, and sunglasses.

Go for a ride

Taking a drive can be fun and relaxing. You could take your loved one for a ride in to where they grew up so they can reminisce. Or you could go for a ride in the country and let them point out things to talk about. Engage them in conversation about the things you see.

Get creative

Art can be a great activity for seniors living with dementia. When choosing the art activity keep in mind the ability of the individual and plan one which is appropriate for them. The goal is to have them finish the project with a feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction.

Some great art activities:

·       Painting on a blank canvas. If you do this outside you have the added benefit of fresh air and vitamin D from the sun.

·       Press flowers and use them to create note cards or sun catchers.

·       Paint birdhouses

·       Paint rocks or terracotta flower pots

·       Model with clay

Gardening

For those living with dementia, spending time outside in the garden can be both enjoyable and beneficial. Sunlight can help your loved one get a good night’s sleep and Vitamin D from the sun has been found to boost mood and can even reduce some symptoms of Alzheimer’s.

Gardening can be a good form of exercise and for those with limited mobility gardening can be done in pots or in raised beds or window boxes.

Taking your loved one to a garden center to choose plants is a good opportunity for conversation and provides a social outing.

Additionally, gardening is an activity which can be ongoing and can have an enjoyable outcome such as when fresh tomatoes or cucumbers can be enjoyed.

Visit the ocean or lake

Take a trip to the seaside or if you live here in the New Hampshire Lakes Region, visit one of our beautiful lakes.

A visit to a body of water can provide much needed sensory stimulation. There’s the feeling of sand between the toes, or the water on the feet. Or the sound of the waves as they break on the shore or the water as it laps at the rocks at the edge of the lake. There is also opportunity to see and hear the birds which visit the water.

A visit to a body of water is also a great way to cool down in the heat of summer. Sometimes just getting your feet in water can make a huge difference.

If your elderly parent is a fan of fishing, find a nice quiet spot to cast your lines and spend some time talking and visiting. Bringing along a grandchild could make this an even more enjoyable outing. 

Go for a picnic

From planning and packing the picnic lunch to the actual time spent outdoors, a picnic can provide many opportunities for stimulation for someone dealing with dementia.

Your loved one can help with planning the food and may enjoy assisting with sandwich preparation or mixing some iced tea.

Bring a couple lawn chairs or choose a park with picnic tables. Avoid places which are loud and noisy.

Attend local events

Each area has their own unique local events. Visit websites and social media for local tourism and chambers of commerce to find out what is going on in your area. You can also look in local newspapers.

You could choose from:

• Farmers Markets

• Craft shows

• Outdoor concerts

• Local festivals

• Outdoor movies

• Flea markets

• Etc.

If you are looking for activities and events here in the New Hampshire lakes region you can visit the following.

         http://www.lakesregionchamber.org/

         https://www.visitwhitemountains.com/events/

www.lakesregion.org/events/   

With a bit of care and planning you can create a summer of fun, memorable activities for your loved one with dementia.

Emergency Preparedness for Seniors

When it comes to senior care, being prepared in the case of an emergency is vital. During an emergency knowing who to contact and having immediate access to pertinent medical info can save the life of your loved one.

Emergency checklist

• Keep a binder readily available with all relevant information regarding insurance contacts, physicians and emergency contacts, etc.

• Keep a list of important contacts in your emergency binder.

• Have medical information on hand – time is of the essence in an emergency. Being able to hand emergency personnel the information they need saves precious time. Abundant Blessings Homecare has an “Emergency Medical Information” resource available free to anyone who wants it.

We interviewed numerous fire departments regarding what information they would like to have handed to them in an emergency situation. This resource was put together based on their responses. Once you fill out the form, it then slides into a clear sleeve that adheres with magnets to the front of your refrigerator. In an emergency, you simply take the form out and hand it to the emergency personnel and they do not have to waste precious time asking all those questions. Please call our office at (603) 473-2510, if you would like us to mail one to you free of charge.

• If you or your loved one takes medication, make a list of the medications and their dosages. Don't wait until the last minute to refill prescriptions. Our “Emergency Medical Information” form, which is mentioned above, includes a place for current medications.

• If your loved one receives assistance from a home-care agency, contact the agency and find out how they respond to emergencies. Discuss your emergency backup plan with your family, loved ones and your home-care agency.

• Put together a plan of emergency communication — Disasters are never predictable, and there’s a possibility you may not be able to get to your loved one to physically check on their well-being. Plan ahead to have a way of contacting them in case of a major catastrophe. Home-care agencies can assist with planning. If necessary, don’t hesitate to contact a local fire department to conduct a wellness check.

• Make emergency supplies easily locatable. Everyone involved in the care of your loved one should know where emergency supplies are located.

• For those who have dementia or Alzheimer’s: Even those who have severe cases of dementia or Alzheimer’s understand when something is wrong. Explain the situation calmly and very simply to your loved one.

• Wheelchairs: If your loved one uses a wheelchair, have a plan for how to evacuate the home in case of an emergency.

• Meals: If your loved one relies on home-delivered meals such as Meals on Wheels, always stock nonperishable food at home in case meal deliveries are not possible during an emergency.

• Hearing aids: Those who have a hearing disability should keep an extra pair of easily accessible batteries at home.

• Reliable medical equipment: In an emergency, reliable medical equipment such as oxygen tanks and walkers are of the utmost importance. You cannot rely upon an emergency shelter to have the exact medical equipment you need. Think these details through in advance and have a plan in place and communicate any plan to all caregivers involved.

• Invest in a fall detection device. One major concern for seniors is falling when no one is around. When seniors cannot help themselves up, they could potentially be on the floor for hours or in worst-case scenarios, days. Fall alert systems are essential if a senior is at risk of falling. Alternatively, you can have a home-care agency check in on your loved one on a daily basis.

Remember, time is of the essence whenever you face an emergency. We have free resources available to help you “be prepared.” Please call our office at (603) 473-2510, and we will send you the “Emergency Medical Information Form,” which includes the magnetic sleeve, so you can complete the form and post it on your refrigerator. You will be ready if the unthinkable happens.

Shelley Jarl is the owner of Abundant Blessings Homecare offering personal care, living assistance and in-home care in New Hampshire and Maine. For more information, go to abundantblessingshomecare.com or call (603) 473-2510.

This is a reprint of an article which originally appeared in the Conway Daily Sun.

Is Meal Preparation for Your Elderly Loved One a Challenge?

Cutting Paper Snowflakes is a Great Project for Seniors

Today is "Make Cutout Snowflakes Day". 

Winter can be a difficult time for many people but it can be an especially challenging time for seniors. A few winter activities can help with feelings of isolation and loneliness.

One great activity to do with the seniors in your life is to cut paper snow flakes together. You can tape them to the windows for beautiful winter decorations. 

If you would like to see some great instructions for cutting paper snowflakes you can find some at instructables.com

How can I help my senior loved one enjoy the holidays?

The holidays can be difficult for seniors, but they don’t have to be. Being attentive to the needs of your loved one can make a huge difference in their holidays.

Here’s some things which make the holidays hard for     seniors and how you can make a difference in their life.

· LONELINESS:  Find ways for them to spend time with other people. Maybe there is a holiday party or event they can attend. Alternatively, friends or family could come and spend time with them.

· FEELINGS OF BEING A BURDEN: If your loved one is able to you could take them to serve at a soup kitchen or elsewhere. If they are unable to, you could help them wrap a couple gifts for those less fortunate or pack a box of goodies for Samaritan’s Purse.

· FAILING HEALTH: With failing health comes changes in what your loved one is able to do. Consider their limitations and find holiday things they are able to do. Some ideas include trying a new recipe or creating an ornament.

· LIVING IN A NURSING HOME OR FACILITY: Consider taking your loved one home for the day or going to spend the day with them. If the facility or community where they live is offering any holiday events consider attending them together.

· DEPRESSION: Listen when they need to talk even if it seems to always be negative talk. Sometimes depression stems from painful memories and a change in scenery or a visit can help. Be sure they are included in holiday festivities.

Christmas Gift Ideas for Seniors

Photo Album or Scrapbook:  There are many website where you can order a custom photo book. These make a beautiful keepsake gift.

Bathrobe or Slippers: Whether your senior loved one lives at home or in a facility, a new      bathrobe or slippers will be appreciated.

Hobby Related Items: If your loved one enjoys a particular hobby, get them something related: yarn for the knitter,  garden stool for the gardener, etc.

Books or Magazines:  If you know what they enjoy reading you could get them some books or a magazine subscription.

DVD’s or Netflix: If you know their viewing preferences DVD’s would make a great gift and you could never go wrong with a Netflix subscription.

Notecards and Stamps: An assortment of notecards and some postage stamps is always appreciated.

Help Pay the Bills: Consider paying the phone, cable or other expense for a month or two.  

Getting a Project Done: From a house project to house cleaning, either hire someone to perform the task or do it yourself. Either way it will be appreciated.

Recognizing Veterans in Dover, NH

Veteran's Day is right around the corner. Get our your calendar and mark the date because there's an event coming up to recognize and honor our Veterans and their families. The event will be held the week prior to Veteran's Day on Monday November 6th, 2017.

Thank you to Wentworth Homecare and Hospice and Wentworth Douglass Hospital for hosting such an important event. 

If you are a veteran or your family member is be sure to stop by the event. 

Focus on: Senior Care in Dover, Somersworth, NH and surrounding areas

Providing care for seniors is sometimes a joint effort between a VNA or Hospice agency and a Homecare agency.

Each of these types of agencies specialize in a certain aspect of care. We often partner with other agencies in our area to provide care for seniors, one such agency is Wentworth Homecare and Hospice.

The professionals at Wentworth Homecare and Hospice provide compassionate Hospice care for seniors as well as home health care for those in Dover, NH and the surrounding area. We partner with them by providing homecare or hospice assistance services for families to have complete senior care for their loved one. 

If you are seeking Hospice care or hospice care assistance in the Dover, NH area consider a partnership between Abundant Blessings Homecare and Wentworth Homecare and Hospice to fullfill your senior care needs. 

Recently Wentworth Homecare and Hospice held a discussion on dementia with specifics on Alzheimer's. This discussion was conducted by Holly Cande, a transitional care social worker and was held at Mast Landing where Abundant Blessings Homecare has an office and provides homecare services. 

Focus on: Senior Services in Conway New Hampshire

If you are looking for activities, meals, educational programs, and/or transportation for seniors in the North Conway, NH area...look no further than the folks who care for seniors at the Gibson Center for Senior Services. 

The Gibson Center serve seniors in the Mount Washington Valley. They serve meals Monday through Friday and have a full calendar of events and activities which can be seen here. Their calendar includes everything from meals, exercise classes, activities, special events, classes and more. There is something for everyone. 

Check out this video about the Gibson Center to learn why they do what they do and about all the services and programs they offer.

Thank you Gibson Center for all you do to show your care for the Conway area seniors.

We're Hiring--Help Us Spread the Word

We're Hiring....By helping us spread the word you can win the following box of awesomeness!

To enter, simply leave a comment on this facebook post. If you'd like another entry, you can go to our blog and leave a comment on the blog post at the following link:

http://abundantblessingshomecare.com/blog/2017/9/17/how-to-care-for-your-aging-parents-from-a-distance

We'd also love if you would share this post or the one on our Facebook page to help us get the word out but it's not required.

Abundant Blessings Homecare employees are not eligible but their family members are so share away. Facebook is not affiliated with this giveaway in any way.

Good luck and thanks for helping us out. It does not matter where you live, we'll mail the package if you are a distance from us. Drawing will end October 4th at 12 noon.

If you'd like to apply for a job visit our employment page.

Managing Caregiver Stress

Today is National Stress Awareness Day, Caregiver Stress is a very real problem for those caring for loved ones. There are some things which can be done to manage the stress. 

It’s an understatement that being a caregiver for an elderly loved one is stressful.

Caregiver stress is a very real problem and in general, by the time you accept that you are in the role of “primary caregiver”, the need to help your elderly parent is already advanced. You may have some “catch up work” to do so you can establish some controls over your aging parent’s medical situation, finances and lifestyle.

To make the stress of the task more acute, in many cases neither the caregiver nor the one being cared for like the situation and often the caregiver didn’t volunteer for the job. The senior citizen receiving the help is often hostile, resistant or even downright disagreeable to the necessary changes that the caregiver must implement. Because it is often the caregiver’s mom or dad being taken care of, there is the added challenge of established relationship norms, such as what they say has always been what goes. But now the caregiver may need to make some decisions and that reversal of roles is hard for both parent and child to get used to.

Caregiver stress can come from a variety of sources including the elderly senior citizen, expectations of other siblings and even from an internal high set of standards.

If you are a caregiver, you may have the attitude that “nothing but the best is good enough for my mommy or daddy”.  And while that sounds good in theory, being a caregiver is all about compromise. They may deserve your attention 24/7 but realistically if you can drop by for an hour a day and then spend the rest of your day taking care of your job, your kids, your spouse, your housework and, oh yes, yourself, that is probably a reasonable expectation.

So right up front, it’s good to recognize that as you settle into the job of primary caregiver for an aging parent, there is going to be an increase in stress in your life. Stress has been identified as one of the big causes of physical and mental health problems for adults. Some stress in life is expected and is good for us. But when caregiver stress gets added to everyday stress, it can begin to overwhelm you, you can go through a decline of your own health that is not good for you, the one you are caring for or anyone in your family either.

The family of the caregiver, can assist the caregiver in many ways.

The caregiver is on the forward line of a struggle that really the whole family should be involved with. If you live a great distance from your parent and your brother or sister is doing the caregiving, be aware of the stress they are under and try to be supportive. You can do all you can to help out to take some of the stress off.  Perhaps you can coordinate with the other distant siblings and relatives to call your parent regularly and take some of the relationship pressure off the caregiver sibling. 

Above all, if you have suggestions for the caregiver, give them in love and without “nagging”. That sibling is painfully aware that she is carrying the load for the whole family so communicate your support and gratefulness and that your suggestions are meant only for mom or dads good, not to criticize the hard work your sibling is doing.

But the one person that can do the most to deal with the stress of being a caregiver is you, the caregiver.

It is important that you view taking care of yourself as much a part of your job as caregiver as any other duties you do. You are a huge resource to your mom or dad so take care of that resource for their sake as well as for yours. If you do, not only will you be a better caregiver, you will live happier and continue taking good care of your family and other responsibilities as well. And that’s a healthy approach to care giving and the only approach that will work if the job goes on for a long time.

For additional resources:

• Being a Family Caregiver, You're Not Alone
• Are you a family caregiver who feels invisible?
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Managing Senior Medications

It's Medication Safety Week. That seems like a good time to discuss the importance of medication safety and things you can do for your loved one to ensure medication safety. 

“Old people need a lot of pills.” 

That was an observation my son observed about his Granddad. And while that may be a bit of a crude way of making that observation, it is certainly a correct observation.  The truth is that senior citizens sometimes find themselves taking a vast array of pills and medications.  Sometimes the diversity of medications can become hard to keep track of.  That is why so often your aging parent may have a pill dispenser kit which allows him to measure out the drugs for an entire week to try to keep it all straight.

The real concern with that much medication being used at the same time is medicine interaction.

If your retired mom or dad takes five, six, seven or more pills at a time, it’s easy to imagine that one of those medications might get into conflict with another. This is not an idle concern. Many drug related overdoes or interaction problems occur with senior citizens every year due to combining their many prescription medications with over the country drugs, or with alcohol and the chemical reaction in their bodies became explosive.

If you are the caregiver for your aging mom or dad, it’s up to you to come up with some strict rules that you have to insist become the law of the land for your mom or dad to assure that there is little or no possibility of a drug related reaction which could lead to hospitalization or death.

Knowledge is power when it comes to managing senior medications.

The two key people you should turn to for that knowledge are your parent’s doctor and pharmacist.  Sometimes the problems which arise from conflicting medicines comes from numerous doctors prescribing drugs. Be sure there is one doctor who is primarily in charge of your parent’s health in general. Have him or her review the current crop of medications, their frequency and ingredients to assure there are no potentially dangerous interactions. 

Your pharmacist can perform the same function as he is trained in understanding the way drugs work. As with the doctor, it’s good to pick one pharmacist for all your parent’s drugs and schedule a time to go over the entire medication picture with the pharmacist to look for potential problems.

The next important area of focus to avoid potential medication mistakes is the home. 

There is a lot you can do to prevent your aging parent from accidentally taking the wrong medications or the wrong dosages, either of which can cause potential problems. If the medicine cabinet where the meds are kept is full of similar looking bottles and the only way to tell them apart is the fine print on the bottles, do your part to make them unique. 

You can buy multicolored bottles to transfer the drugs into. Then you can write out your parent’s medicine schedule in clear understandable terms like, “3 p.m. take 2 from the blue bottle, 1 from the pink bottle and 1 from the green bottle.”  You can even take the next step of using a label maker to mark each bottle in clear, large print type so there is no possibility that what is in that bottle could be misunderstood.

Alternatively, you could use an automated medication dispenser to control the various medications.

These keep medication locked and only dispense the medications needed and at the correct time. Automated medication dispensers come with various features such as lights, timers, and some even call the family if the medication is not taken. Click here to see the automatic medication dispensers which we recommend.

Take proper care to keep track of medicines and their expiration dates and stay ahead of reorder cycles. A great way to save money is to use online pharmacies or reorder services that can provide you with generic equivalent of prescription drugs. Make sure the medication provider is legitimate so you know you are getting exactly what you ordered.

Your retired mom or dad may no longer have the kind of attention to detail to stay up on their medications and prescriptions. In addition, poor eyesight and mental fatigue can cause him or her to fail at staying on top of a complex drug situation. As you fill in that gap for your parent, in doing so, you will have peace of mind knowing they are getting the medications they need and only the medications they need.

For additional resources see

• Medication Management For Seniors
• Medication Wallet Card (printable and then fold)

How to Improve Quality of Life for Your Loved One

When you were growing up, your parents were your care givers. They made sure you were safe, well fed, clothed, had medical care and that finances were available for the things you needed. But being your caregiver was about more than just giving you the basics of survival and health. 

Now your turn has come to be the care giver for your parents. They need you now as they move into their older years and they are less able to attend to those basic needs of life. You’ll find you need to take steps to assure they are safe and that they have the right food to eat for their diet. You can make sure their clothes are clean and that their medications are there for them every day. You also can look after their finances so there is plenty available to take care of the necessities of life and none is wasted or taken from them by scam artists.

But just as growing up in your family, there is another element of being a care giver and that element can be boiled down to the phrase, “quality of life.”

That is a good phrase because if your childhood had times of joy and happiness because you were part of a loving family, that was because your mom and dad went beyond the physical basics and made your life fun, full of love and laughter and good times that you would remember forever.

Perhaps you reminisce about those times with your elderly parents even today. But as you remember those terrific vacations or all the wonderful, Christmases and the many funny things that happened in your family when you were growing up, two people made sure your life was rich and full that way. And those two people are these same two people you are now charged to care for – mom and dad.

So how can you do all you can to enhance the quality of life for your parents in their retirement years? 

If we can find ways to give them happy times, time of laughter and love, that will be a fitting pay back for the loving household they provided to you all those years. Here are just a few things you can make happen to make their lives happier and increase their quality of life…

• Dinner every week. If you have a routine time when you either come to your parents home and bring dinner or have them to your place to enjoy some family time, that will become a favorite night of the week for your elderly loved one.
• Lots of family time. The real value of being in the same town as your parents is they can have lots of time with your family. Let them be part of many of the family things you do such as church, school activities and fun outings during the spring and summer as well.
• Make the holidays festive. What would the holidays be without Grandma? And if Grandpa makes a good Santa Clause, you will surely to make his day as well as that of the other family members around.  
• Make their house a home. As a caregiver, sometimes the chore of cleaning and maintaining your parent’s apartment falls to you, but don’t just “settle” for a nice clean look. Dig out those great things mom used to have on the walls and shelves at home when she had her own place. Try to give her room at the senior retirement center, or wherever she is living, a feeling of home as much as possible. Then she will feel comfortable and happy among the things that make this is her place and hers alone and you will have improved her quality of life.

If you can create the same joy, the same fun and the same sense of “home” for your elderly parent that they created for you and your siblings growing up, then you will have taken one more step toward giving back a little of what was given to you. 

But there is a real value to giving your retired parents the same love and good times they gave to you. Laughter and love and happy times are therapeutic and can do a lot for the health and well being of your retired parent. Put that extra creativity you have into really giving to your parents the quality of life they gave to you and they will blossom where they are planted, just like that opportunity you and your siblings have had in life.