As people grow older, they tend to need more assistance with their day to day tasks. Most of the time, children tend to take over the caregiver role for their parents. While the gesture is kind, there comes a time where people become overwhelmed with the responsibilities that come with watching over another adult. Elmhurst Extended Care Center breaks down when people should consider transferring their loved one to a long-term care facility.
Reasons and Stigma
Elmhurst Extended Care Center starts off by saying that children often care for their loved one out of guilt. People feel guilty when they cannot look after the needs of their parents and they force themselves to handle more than they can.
Furthermore, there are various movies and novels that display nursing homes in a negative point of view. Yet, despite the stigma, there are great care centers available for the elderly. EECC says that you should visit the nursing homes you are interested in. And if the nursing homes have a Respite Care service, you can place your loved one in their care for a short time to see how they are treated.
Deciding When It Is Time
There are various factors that can be taken into consideration when deciding if you would like to place your loved one in a nursing home. When making the decision, you should consider you loved ones needs, especially if they need special care like physical rehabilitation.
Staying at home and aging in place is something many seniors
want to do with their retirement years. While many seniors are able to take care
of themselves, the likelihood of needing additional assistance at home increase
each year. When it is time to look for senior in-home care, Visiting Angels Sarasota
states that there are a few things to consider:
“. . . the next step is to meet with in-home care agencies
and learn about the services that they provide. Most in-home care agencies will
sit down with you for a free consultation. This is a great opportunity to learn
more about what services the agency provides. If an agency disagrees with the
sort of help you’re asking for, walk away. Your safety and well-being should be
their primary concern.”
When a senior experiences a fall, the aftermath can be quite devastating. The injuries can be fatal, and the medical expenses can take their toll. As dangerous as a fall can be, luckily there are ways to lower the risk and prevent it from happening. Visiting Angels Barrington, a senior home care provider, shares some details.
To lower the risk of a fall from occurring at home, it’s
recommended to:
Move objects that are obstructive – bathmats and throw rugs can be especially dangerous, so be mindful.
Address slippery, worrisome or broken items in your home.
Install proper lighting, especially near staircases.
Install handrails – especially near all stairs.
Install grab bars in the bathrooms – particularly near the bathtub and the toilet.
As we watch our loved ones become older, it can be difficult to witness. They may have lost certain abilities due to the physical limitations of their body which then forces them to give up their favorite hobbies or even downsize to an environment that is more forgiving. As they make these changes, it can be difficult to witness. When you offer them help, your loved one will typically refuse. They may refuse asking for help, accepting help, and even refuse to admit they need help.
When you come to this kind of situation, it can be difficult for you and your family because despite wanting to assist them, you don’t want to tarnish their dignity. When this issue arises, Visiting Angels Punta Gorda shares some pieces of advice:
“Chances are that once you’ve expressed your concerns, your
aging loved one will be eager to end the conversation. They probably are
already aware of their need for help, and your confrontation only makes it
public now. Give them time to process what you’ve said before moving forward
with a plan. Wait a couple of weeks before talking about in-home care or making
appointments with in-home care agencies. You can certainly set a date with your
aging loved one to discuss what’s next, if that helps move things forward.”
As we age, it becomes increasingly more important to
maintain a healthy lifestyle. If you’re looking to improve your lifestyle, Visiting Angels West Cincinnati
shares some insights.
The first thing you can do to improve your health is exercise.
We all know the many benefits it provides and while you don’t necessarily have to
lift weights, there are plenty of alternatives that will benefit you just as
much. Whether you spend time in the swimming pool, ride a bike, or even go for
a walk, as long as you are staying active you will be well on your way to
having a healthy lifestyle.
To accompany exercising, it is equally important to incorporate
healthier eating habits. Again, we all know the benefits having a healthy diet
provides but you need to follow through. You can even start out small by eating
small amounts of fruit and vegetables each week. As long as you continue to
develop your taste in healthier food choices, you’ll not only see a difference
in your weight, but you’ll also feel a difference in your energy and mood.
These are just a couple of changes you can make to improve
your aging lifestyle. For more tips, you can view the full article here.
Despite the amount of experience and knowledge we’ve accumulated
over our lifetime, there comes a point at which our bodies begin to slowdown.
What we were once capable of is now a challenge. Because we hold our
independence with great pride, we may be apprehensive to asking for help and instead
try to handle these tasks on our own. Doing so can put us and others in great
risk of injury. Whether it be yard work or driving a car, we need to take a
moment to ask ourselves if maintaining
our independence is really worth risking our safety.
Be Honest with Our Limitations
Giving up the things that define our adulthood is difficult.
Over our lifetime, we’ve been so successful at providing for our family and accomplishing
so many other achievements that the idea of not being able to do those kinds of
things may be unfathomable. But we’re talking about a time when our bodies were
more capable. As we age, we tend to lose our strength and hand-eye coordination
which can make even the simplest of tasks seem challenging.
When this happens, we have to be brutally honest with
ourselves and evaluate what our limitations are. It can be difficult to admit
our shortcomings, but it is something we must come to face with. In order to
age at home, we must look within ourselves and admit what needs to change so
that we may remain safe.
Ask for Assistance in the Community
Once we have come to terms with our limitations, it is time
for us to look for assistance in the community. When there is yard work that
needs to be done, see if someone from your local church or neighborhood would
be willing to come and help.
When you need assistance with more than just yard work, hiring
a caregiver will be of great help. Visiting Angels
Barrington is a home care provider who specialize with senior citizens.
With their professional caregivers, you’ll have the assistance you need all
while maintaining your independence.
As a senior, we need to come to terms with the fact that
there is nothing wrong with having someone help us throughout our day. By
recognizing that our bodies are not as capable as they use to be and seeking
for assistance with daily tasks, it puts us in a safer environment that
benefits everyone around us.
When a stroke occurs, blood supply to the brain that carries
nutrients and oxygen gets disrupted. Following this, brain cells begin to die
which leads to the person suffering to have lost certain abilities. While a
stroke can cause death, it can cause lasting after-effects for those who
survive a stroke. Often times, those who have survived a stroke experience a
lost of feeling and functionality on one side of their body, slurred speech,
and even memory impairment. While strokes are typically associated with older
adults, it can happen to anyone at any time.
For someone who has survived a stroke, the road to recover
is long and difficult. Depending on the severity of the stroke, a loved one may
end up having to go through rehabilitation in a short-term care facility for an
extended period of time. They may need to learn how to eat, talk, write, and
walk all over again. Their sense of independence becomes lost as they may
constantly need assistance with simple tasks they were once capable of. To them
the future may seem grim, but it doesn’t have to be. To help your loved one on
their journey to recovery, Visiting Angels Punta
Gorda share some insights on what you
can do to make them feel reassured of themselves.
Actively Listen to Them
One of the first things you can do when you visit them is to
practice active listening. By putting aside all distractions, you allow
yourself the opportunity to truly listen to your loved one. For them, the
future is uncertain which can be unsettling. Many questions may fill their
minds with doubt and uncertainty. Listen to what they are really saying. Let
them know that you are there for them and you will get through this difficult
time together.
Be Their Voice
When someone is recovering from a stroke, their ability to
communicate becomes increasingly difficult. While they are in a short-term care
facility, they may not be able to communicate with the staff properly. They are
in a setting that is unfamiliar to them that may make them feel alienated. Be
their voice when you visit them. While they may struggle with their speech, you
can relay to the care staff any preferences your loved one may have. Whether
it’s letting the staff know of preferred TV channels or what food they would
rather eat, your loved one will appreciate you trying to make them feel more
comfortable during their short-term stay.
Be Their Cheerleader
As they go through their physical and speech rehabilitation,
they may get encouragement from the staff. But what they really need is words
of encouragement from you. If you’re able to, attend their therapy sessions so
that you can witness each achievement they make. After each session, you can do
something fun together like going outside or playing their favorite game. Just
by being there and cheering them on is more than enough to give them the
positive outlook they need for their recovery. By knowing they have someone
close who is supporting them every step of the way will make them feel much
more confident.
Attend a Support Group
While it’s important to ensure your loved one is taken care
of, it’s equally important to remember to take care of yourself. Having a loved
one who is recovery from a stroke isn’t only hard for them but it’s also hard
for you. After a stroke, they may not seem like the person you once knew at
first. The idea of seeing them struggle with tasks they were once capable of
can be disheartening. The best way to cope with these kinds of feelings is to
attend a support group filled with individuals who have also been affected by
someone who has suffered a stroke. When you surround yourself with others who
have had a similar experience, it can be liberating to know that they will
understand your feelings of depression, frustration, and even guilt.
When someone suffers a stroke, the road to recovery is
difficult for everyone. By sticking by their side and getting through it
together, it can make a world of difference. When your loved one needs
assistance at home after their short-term stay, Visiting Angels Punta Gorda is
there for you and your family. Visiting Angels Punta
Gorda provides caregivers who will assist in getting your loved one to
their doctor’s appointments and helping them around their home. If you need the
extra assistance at home, contact them today.
Pains and aches gradually start appearing as our bodies age. In order to combat those pains, people often seek a form of relief. Within the United States, many people undergo knee surgery to reduce the discomfort caused by their bad knee(s). The problem with knee surgery is that a lot of people do not know what to do after the surgery. Elmhurst Extended Care Center is a nursing home skilled in a variety of services, and they have noticed how people struggle post-surgery. As a result, EECC wrote a blog suggesting 4 knee exercises to help recovering patients.
Straight Leg Raise
To perform straight leg raises, you will need a flat surface to lay down on. A carpet or bed would be some soft surfaces that EECC recommends laying on. Once you chose your location, gradually lower yourself onto the ground. Place your back flat on the surface and relax.
When you are ready, you will bend your leg with your non-operated knee. After propping your leg up, you want to keep your recovering knee straight. While keeping your knee straight, slowly lift it up. Keep your leg in the air for 5 seconds and then gently lower it back down.
Heel Slides
Like the straight leg raise, you will need to pick a comfortable surface to lay on. Lower yourself smoothly onto the ground and take a deep breath. You will need to keep your non-operated knee straight during this exercise. EECC suggest putting a pillow under your leg to keep it straight.
To start off you will need to slowly move your leg associated with your operated knee towards you. Slide your foot underneath your leg and keep sliding as far as you can. Once you think your knee has reached its limit, hold that position for 5 seconds. Then relax your knee and let your leg straighten out.
Standing Knee Flexion
EECC says that you will need support to lean on when performing the standing knee flexion. You can use a heavy chair, a countertop, or a walker. After finding your support object, you will need to get a solid grip on it with your hands and face it while standing.
In the beginning, you want to keep both feet firmly on the ground. When you are ready, you will gently bend your recovering knee. Raise the leg connected with your operated knee and move your foot upwards behind you. Bend your knee and raise your foot as far as you can. Then lower your foot back to the ground and relax.
Sitting Knee Extension
The sitting knee extension requires a chair. After finding some ground that is even and smooth, place your chair on top of it. Make sure your chair does not move, it should be sturdy. If you think your chair is fine, then take a seat.
First, you need your feet to touch the ground. Additionally, you will need to sit up straight while also bending your knees slightly at the edge of the seat. After positioning yourself, all you must do is take your operated knee and straighten It. Hold your knee up straight for 5 seconds and then gradually place it on the ground again.
These exercises should be performed 10 times and 2-3 times a day. If you would like more advice on recovering after a surgery, contact EECC to take advantage of their skilled physical rehabilitation program.
In simple terms, cholesterol is fat found within your bloodstream. There is LDL and HDL cholesterol. Having high levels of LDL cholesterol is bad for your health because it can lead to heart problems and blood clots. Your HDL cholesterol is there to keep your LDL levels in check and under control. There are steps you can take to lower your LDL levels. Elmhurst Extended Care Center has 4 suggestions to lower your cholesterol naturally.
Exercising Is Good for You
Though the first step seems a bit time consuming, rest assured that exercise just means you should increase your daily physical activity. In other words, simply walking and moving around more can benefit your health. Instead of driving everywhere, try walking. If you see a part of your home that needs some cleaning, get some cleaning supplies and make that room squeaky clean. You do not have to follow through with a whole fitness plan in order to lower your cholesterol levels.
On the other hand, if you are a busy person, you can try making a workout plan. If your daily schedule is packed, just plan a good workout for 3 days out of your week. Those 3 days are better than not exercising in general. Plus, if you have bodily pain, like arthritis, any form of exercise will benefit you. Before you know it, you will feel healthier inside and out.
Do Not Smoke
It is already a known fact that cigarettes are bad for your health. But did you know that they can also affect your cholesterol levels? When you smoke, you inhale a vapor called toxin acrolein. When you inhale that man-made poison into your lungs, your bloodstream absorbs the toxin from your lungs. Once the toxin is in your bloodstream, it can negatively affect the way your body metabolizes cholesterol.
You can inhale the vapor as a secondhand smoker or directly as a smoker, but as soon as the toxin makes its way into your bloodstream, health problems may arise. You can suffer from heart problems or high levels of cholesterol. The best option is to avoid cigarettes as much as you can, for your own body and for others who inhale secondhand smoke.
Saturated Fats are Not Healthy
Dairy and meat products usually contain saturated fat. Butter, cheese and red meat are some good examples of food that contain saturated fat. Saturated fats are bad because they can elevate your LDL levels; however, you can consume limited amounts of saturated fats and still be fine. EECC did some research and found out that 5-6% of caloric intake of saturated fat would be the ideal amount to eat when planning out your diet.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Monounsaturated Fats
Like good cholesterol, there are also good fats. Both Omega-3 fatty acid and Monounsaturated fats are good for your cholesterol and overall health. Food such as fish, avocado and nuts contain these great nutrients. Omega-3 fatty acids can also be found in fish and krill oil supplements. Both decrease LDL cholesterol levels while also helping HDL levels. If you incorporated Monounsaturated fats and Omega-3 fatty acids into your diet, your cholesterol, blood pressure, and overall health will improve.
Family caregivers are often overworked. They struggle to find time to meet their individual needs and the needs of their loved one; however, there is a solution to reduce the stress that caregivers might feel.
Elmhurst Extended Care Center offers a respite care service. Respite care is when a nursing home takes over the role of caregiver. The service is temporary, and a family caregiver can take advantage of it year-round. By putting your elderly loved one in respite care, you can take time to meet your own needs while they continue to be cared for by professionals.
How Does Respite Care Work?
When scheduling respite care services, you will need to provide a list of your loved one’s medications with dosage amounts, their medical history documents, and their most recent physical. Then when you leave your aging loved one, EECC’s respite care will look at the documents for a reference. Rest assured that the schedule you have developed for your loved one will be followed by the nursing home.
Let’s say that you have worked together with a doctor and your loved one to create a diet of specific food. If you talk to the staff at EECC and provide a document with details, the staff will continue with the routine. A round the clock team will make sure that your loved one is rovided with high-quality care.
Why Do You Need Respite Care?
You might be wondering about the purpose of respite care. Is it truly necessary? Who would leave their loved one with strangers?
Believe it or not, respite care benefits both the family caregiver and their loved one. Respite care services benefit you by allowing you to focus on your needs. You can take care of your mental and physical health, and you can finally attend to things you have been putting off because you did not have time. Whether you want to go on vacation, or you have a business trip to go on, respite care will always be available for you.
When you are ready to pick up your elderly loved one, you will be recharged. By taking care of your other responsibilities and relaxing a little, you can devote more of your attention and time to your loved one.
Professional Care You Can Trust
It is normal to feel concerned about leaving a loved one alone; however, you should remember that you are not leaving them completely alone. Your elderly loved one will be attended to by a skilled staff. Before signing up for respite care, you should schedule a tour of the nursing home. A tour will give you a better idea of what kind of staff works there. Plus, you will get to see if the residents look happy or if they are well attended to by the staff.
Another aspect you should research before picking a nursing home is what services they offer. Do they offer a memory care service if your loved one has dementia or Alzheimer’s? Additionally, a skilled nursing staff would be an important feature to look for if your elderly loved one has any health problems. Both you and your loved one will be happy if you are aware of their needs and do plenty of research.
If you need time to recharge, contact EECC so your loved one can receive the skilled nursing care they deserve.
Senior Health & Wellness 