CarePlus

Author: Julie Schumacher

  • Creating Cherished Memories: Fun Holiday Activities with Aging Family Members

    Creating Cherished Memories: Fun Holiday Activities with Aging Family Members

    The holidays are a time for family and friends, and it is important to find ways to make sure that aging family members can participate in annual traditions. When gathering together, whether for a brief visit or a special local activity, be sensitive to the needs and challenges that older loved ones can have when it comes to some activities and find them enjoyable and engaging. As we gather together, find enjoyable and engaging ways to feel the holiday cheer. Here are some suggestions.

    Festive Activities to Enjoy Together

    Baking and Cooking Together

    Family recipes can go back generations, and special meals often feature treasured dishes passed down from parent to child. Keep up the tradition by spending time in the kitchen learning the secret tips and tricks from the older family members to produce beloved cookies or savory dishes. This time spent together can involve all ages and include storytelling about past meals and times spent together. The aromas wafting through the house are an added bonus.

    Decorating the Home

    Home decorating for the holidays often includes a variety of steps, some more complex than others. Working together to pull out the annual decorations and deciding how to arrange them for the season is a great joint activity. The very oldest and very youngest family members can participate in the layout and some of the simpler decorating activities, making them feel like they are a part of the process.

    Holiday Movie Marathon

    An evening can be all the cozier with the entire family settled in for a holiday movie marathon. Choose classics that the whole family can enjoy, and relax with snacks and beverages for a low-key activity that lets everyone spend time together.

    Crafting and DIY Projects

    Get creative with holiday-themed crafts. Making homemade ornaments, wreaths, or holiday cards can be a fun and fulfilling way to spend time together. Tailor the complexity of the projects to match the abilities and interests of your aging family member.

    Memory Sharing Sessions

    For families that live apart and even those whose busy lives don’t always allow them to focus on older relatives, the holidays are an opportunity to hear the stories, gather the wisdom, and learn from the experiences of older family members. Consider topics like favorite holiday memories or diving deeper into family history. It’s a great idea to record these sessions to preserve the memories.

    Recognizing Signs That an Older Family Member May Need Help

    While the holidays are a time of joy, they also provide an opportunity to observe the well-being of our aging family members. Here are some signs to look out for that may indicate they need some extra help:

    Changes in Physical Appearance

    Noticeable weight loss, changes in personal hygiene, or an overall decline in grooming can be signs that your family members are struggling to take care of themselves.

    Mobility and Balance Issues

    If you observe difficulty walking, frequent falls, or hesitancy to move around, it may be time to discuss mobility aids or modifications to the person’s living environment to ensure their safety.

    Cognitive Changes

    Forgetfulness, confusion, or difficulty following conversations and tasks can indicate cognitive decline. Be attentive to these signs, as they may require professional evaluation.

    Emotional and Behavioral Changes

    Look out for signs of depression, anxiety, or withdrawal from social activities. These changes in mood and behavior can signal that your loved one is feeling isolated or overwhelmed.

    Difficulty Managing Daily Tasks

    Struggles with basic tasks such as cooking, cleaning, managing medications, or handling finances can be red flags that your family member needs additional support.

    Combining fun holiday activities with mindful observation ensures that your aging family member feels included, loved, and well-cared for. The holidays are a time to cherish each other’s company and create beautiful memories while staying vigilant to any signs that extra help may be required. If you observe that your family member may need additional assistance, here are some services that CarePlus offers. Contact us to learn more.

    Enjoy this special season with your family, and may your holidays be filled with warmth and joy.

  • Aging in Place With Alzheimer’s

    Aging in Place With Alzheimer’s

    As an increasing percentage of the aging population elects to remain age in place, issues that arise with aging become an important factor in maintaining a healthy and safe lifestyle while remaining at home. Alzheimer’s is a disease that occurs most often in people 65 and older, and its progressive symptoms can have a devastating effect on the life of the person suffering from the disease as well as their loved ones. There are a few important measures that can be taken to make living at home a viable, long-term option.

    Know the Signs of Alzheimer’s

    Rather than being caught in a crisis because the disease has progressed without treatment or other measures to alleviate the problem, people over the age of 65 should be aware of the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s. According to the National Institute of Aging (part of the National Institutes of Health), some of the signs of mild Alzheimer’s include:

    • Memory loss that disrupts daily life
    • Poor judgment,  leading to bad decisions
    • Loss of spontaneity and sense of initiative
    • Losing track of dates or knowing current location
    • Taking longer to complete normal daily tasks
    • Repeating questions or forgetting recently learned information
    • Trouble handling money and paying bills
    • Challenges in planning or solving problems
    • Wandering and getting lost
    • Losing things or misplacing them in odd places
    • Difficulty completing tasks such as bathing
    • Mood and personality changes
    • Increased anxiety and/or aggression

    If you or a person you love is exhibiting several of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice as soon as possible. An early diagnosis brings a range of benefits, from medical treatment to slow the progression of the disease to additional time and space to cope with the changes that come with dementia and other aspects of Alzheimer’s.

    Prepare the Home for Changing Needs

    Older people with Alzheimer’s don’t all manifest their disease in the same way. However, being aware of the existing or possible symptoms following a diagnosis makes it easier to assess the needs of the person and make changes in the home for increased comfort and safety. Installing safety bars in the bathroom, changing door knobs to levers and thinking strategically about locks, and rearranging closets, storage, and kitchens to make it easier to access regularly used items are some of the adjustments that may take some getting used to. As such, it is better to do them as soon as possible so that the person with Alzheimer’s can get accustomed to the changes. If you aren’t sure about what changes are a good idea, work with a professional to have a home safety assessment.

    Set Up Routines

    For both the person with Alzheimer’s and their caretakers and loved ones, the diminishing capacity to plan and execute on activities of daily living can impact health, safety, and comfort. By establishing routines around medication (sorting out doses and planning when to take it), bathing, eating, and other critical activities, the household becomes a stable environment that can be a source of comfort and familiarity for the person with Alzheimer’s and also makes it easier for primary caretakers to get occasional assistance. Writing down the routines and sticking to them gives the household more time for other activities that bring meaning and pleasure.

    Get Support

    Alzheimer’s is a devastating illness that impacts the life of patients and their loved ones. As the disease progresses, it can become increasingly necessary to help the patient with many aspects of their life. Meanwhile, the cognitive decline and emotional changes in the patient can be incredibly difficult. Families who want to allow their loved ones to stay at home should plan for the challenge by thinking of ways to get support. This can include letting neighbors know about the diagnosis so they can keep an eye out for the patient should they wander off. It can also include seeking respite care – which is available through local government agencies like The Arc Montgomery County or through professional providers with expertise in memory care.

    CarePlus provides a full range of homecare services to people in Montgomery County and surrounding areas. With caregivers trained in memory care, our team is able to offer compassionate, professional care that assures the safety and comfort of a loved one dealing with Alzheimer’s. We can begin with a complimentary in-home safety assessment. Contact us today to learn how we can be of service.

  • Bone and Joint Awareness in the Home

    Bone and Joint Awareness in the Home

    October 12-20 is the annual Bone and Joint Action Week; bone and joint issues can be painful, stressful, and debilitating for many older people. Taking charge of bone and joint health and understanding ways to cope with bone and joint issues can make a huge difference in the quality of life for a person at risk or suffering from problems with these parts of the body. Here are some considerations.

    Some Facts About Bone and Joint Health

    According to the United States Bone and Joint Initiative, “Bone and joint conditions are the most common cause of severe long-term pain and physical disability worldwide, affecting hundreds of millions of people.” Bone and joint conditions include back pain, arthritis, traumatic injuries, osteoporosis, spinal deformity, and childhood conditions, which are predicted to become more common as life expectancy and other risk factors change. Many musculoskeletal conditions can only be treated, not cured, and often, they become progressively worse over time. It is critical to consult with medical professionals if bone or joint pain becomes an issue to diagnose and seek early intervention.

    Taking Action to Deal with Bone and Joint Health

    Aside from medication, there are many ways to cope with bone and joint conditions, including:

    • Stay Active: Regular exercise is crucial for maintaining healthy bones and joints. Consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program.
    • Balanced Diet: A well-balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D should include dairy products, leafy greens, fortified foods, and supplements if necessary
    • Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts added stress on the joints, particularly the knees and hips. Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of developing joint problems or exacerbating existing ones.
    • Proper Posture and Body Mechanics: Practicing good posture and using proper body mechanics when lifting or performing daily activities can reduce the risk of strain or injury to the bones and joints.
    • Regular Check-Ups: Older individuals need regular check-ups with healthcare providers. They can monitor bone density and joint health and provide recommendations or treatments as required.
    • Medications and Supplements: If prescribed by a healthcare provider, medications or supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin may help manage joint pain and inflammation. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice regarding these.
    • Fall Prevention: Falls can be especially harmful to older individuals with fragile bones. Make necessary modifications to your home environment to reduce the risk of falls, such as installing handrails and using non-slip mats.
    • Pain Management: If you’re experiencing joint pain or discomfort, consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate pain management strategies. This may include physical therapy, over-the-counter pain relievers, or prescription medications.
    • Emotional Well-being: Coping with bone and joint issues can be mentally challenging. Seek emotional support from friends, family, or support groups to help manage stress and improve overall well-being.
    • Assistive Devices: If mobility is limited, consider using assistive devices like canes, walkers, or wheelchairs to maintain independence and reduce the risk of falls.
    • Stay Informed: Stay informed about the latest research and treatment options for bone and joint health. Knowledge is a powerful tool in managing these conditions.

    Be Strategic and Proactive About Getting Help

    When bone and joint conditions begin to impact ordinary activities of daily living, it is essential to work on ways to minimize the impact on your quality of life. In addition to fall prevention for older adults living at home, many issues can interfere with safety and comfort. From something as simple as opening a child-proof medication bottle to lifting heavier cookware in the kitchen, bone and joint pain can interfere with ordinary activities. If this is the case, it is a good idea to consider getting in-home assistance designed to alleviate these challenges. It can be as simple as assistance with cooking, shipping, and medications or more comprehensive full-time care if mobility and capacity are significantly diminished.

    CarePlus has been delivering various services to the Montgomery County area for people who want enough help to manage their challenges due to aging or medical conditions without sacrificing their independence and comfort. Our Flex Care program and other Home Care services offer a critical measure of safety, attention, and peace of mind to older people living with bone and joint issues. Contact us to learn more about how we can help.

  • Holiday Wellness Check on Aging Relatives

    Holiday Wellness Check on Aging Relatives

    With the holidays comes a chance for families to gather together in celebration. Sometimes, this is a rare opportunity to see a relative who lives far away. If that person is aging and they live alone or with another aging person, it is an excellent idea to check out how they are doing. Phone calls, and even video calls, don’t tell the full story that an in-person visit might reveal about their needs for health, comfort and safety.

    Self-Neglect

    As people age, some ordinary life activities may become increasingly difficult or skipped altogether. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) identifies these signs of self-neglect that can be spotted during a short visit.

    • Hoarding
    • Failure to take essential medications or refusal to seek medical treatment for serious illness
    • Leaving a burning stove unattended
    • Poor hygiene
    • Not wearing suitable clothing for the weather
    • Confusion
    • Inability to attend to housekeeping
    • Dehydration

    If you see these signs, it is time to work with that parent to get some additional care.

    Cognitive Health

    One of the biggest challenges to aging is the failure of cognitive health – the ability to think, process, and remember. Dementia from Alzheimer’s disease or another cause can severely impact the health and safety of a loved one, so it is important to look for signs of impairment. Memory loss, change in mood, taking longer to complete daily tasks, losing items or placing them in odd locations, and repeating questions are among the early symptoms that the NIH warns to look out for. There are many potential causes of these issues, so getting a proper medical assessment is critical for early treatment and intervention.

    Mental Health

    Older people suffer from mental health challenges, including anxiety and depression. As they slow down and become frailer, they may limit their social activities, and isolation can both increase mental health challenges and make them harder to identify. Where a relative may perk up for a phone call, their overall mental health might be in decline and need attention. In person, they might be more willing to open up about their struggle.

    Don’t Do it Alone

    Checking in with your loved one’s health care provider, minister and other sources of support is an excellent way to get a clear picture of the situation that your loved one may be reluctant to reveal. If they aren’t available during your visit, you may want to consider working with a professional to do an assessment. Trained social workers and other professionals with experience working with the elderly can help identify red flags and offer suggestions and solutions that may make life easier for your loved one.

    At CarePlus Home Health, we begin all of our relationships with clients by conducting a thorough in-home evaluation. We do not charge for this service, because we think it’s critical to establish trust and assess the situation to propose the right solution. If your loved one is located in Montgomery County, Howard County or Prince George’s County and you would like to schedule an in-home evaluation while you are in town, contact us today.

  • Holiday Hints for the Sandwich Generation

    Holiday Hints for the Sandwich Generation

    The holidays are fast approaching. While they are a time of togetherness and joy, for some family members, the responsibilities add up, which can make this time feel stressful and difficult to manage. Known as the “Sandwich Generation,” adults who have children under the age of 18 and parents over the age of 65 experience the caretaker role on both ends of the age spectrum. Planning for the holidays involves many moving pieces, and it helps to keep some of the following goals in mind.

    Be Prepared

    The holidays are about a lot of things, but food and fun are two major aspects of the end-of-year season. With that in mind, and knowing that you will be spending a lot of time with a full household, try to plan for activities and hungry hordes. Stock up on snacks, consider buying some board games, and if you plan to go anywhere, make sure to check into reservations so you don’t leave the clan hanging.

    Coming Together

    The movies make holidays seem like a fun, chaotic series of activities where everyone spends time together and has a wonderful time. They sure can be, but when there are younger children and older parents involved, it’s worth being a little more realistic in the approach. Instead of a family game of football, consider something a little easier on the knees and hips like a walk in a local park. If mobility is an issue for a parent, you can also plan fun indoor activities like an arts and crafts project, or participate in the meal preparation. The key is to assess the abilities of all the participants and come up with something where everyone can feel included.

    Giving Them a Break

    Family is all about love and togetherness, but sometimes, it can be tiring to interact with another generation for too long. The kids need to have some activities that let them get their wiggles out. Parents need to have time to rest and also some quality adult time. Whether you are the type to build a complete schedule of activities for the entire holiday, or you like to wing it, make sure to include some time where the generations can relax.

    Taking Care of Yourself

    It’s hard to remember that you can’t be there for others if you aren’t there for yourself first. Make sure to keep up your health routines during the holiday. Give yourself some time to take a deep breath away from your charges, whether it’s taking the dog for a quick walk or another chance to be in the moment without two generations tugging on your arm for attention. While it’s hard to watch what you eat and drink when you are making merry, try to keep hydrated and put some limits on your consumption.

    Asking for Help

    You don’t need to do it alone. If you feel overwhelmed with the demands of the season, take stock of who can lend a hand. Visiting family may be able to step in for some responsibilities, but if it’s really all on your shoulders, consider some outside support. Housecleaning, cooking, errands and caretaking can all be found to alleviate some of the stress.

    CarePlus Home Health understands that the holidays are supposed to be a time for family, but someone has to make sure it goes off without a hitch. We can help. By being there for your loved one’s daily living needs, we can give you time and focus to make the season a time to remember. Contact us today to learn more about our services.