Watching a family member mentally decline is a difficult experience. Personalized home care from a professional caregiver can ease this experience, ensuring you have the tools to help your parent or spouse live their life with grace and dignity.
Dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are two main types of mental decline that families must often face. While some refer to these two conditions interchangeably, they do have some differences. This is especially apparent in the type of personal home care services clients require. Read on to learn how the private caregivers at Corewood Care approach memory care vs. Alzheimer’s care.
How Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease Differ
Dementia is not a disease — it is a general term that refers to mental decline that interferes with a person’s daily life. Dementia is not a normal part of growing older. Rather, it’s usually caused by a specific condition that damages brain cells, impacting thoughts, behaviors and feelings. The condition is usually identified by its symptoms, which include some or all of the following:
Memory loss
Confusion
Difficulty understanding others
Changes in behavior
Growing need for help with daily tasks
Problems gathering thoughts or finding the right words for situations
Many types of dementia exist. However, 60% to 80% of dementia cases are identified as Alzheimer’s disease. Also referred to simply as Alzheimer’s, this condition is a progressive brain disease and a form of dementia. In many cases, the condition is present for some time before an individual begins to show symptoms.
As Alzheimer’s progresses, the more general hallmarks of dementia grow in severity and require specialized caregiving. Symptoms of later-stage Alzheimer’s include:
Delirium
Disorientation
Disturbing behavior changes
Inability to communicate
Difficulty swallowing
Mobility problems
Incontinence
How Is Alzheimer’s Care Different From Dementia Care?
Eventually, Alzheimer’s disease causes so much damage to the brain that a person requires 24-hour care. Therefore, it’s essential to understand the difference between memory care and Alzheimer’s care.
Dementia Care
Dementia care is often the first step before symptoms become too severe. The team at Corewood can help clients struggling with many forms of dementia. Memory care is a specialized program that focuses on progressive memory loss. As such, clients in dementia care can expect adaptable services depending on their unique needs.
Beyond companionship and assistance with ADLs (activities of daily living), we work to create a familiar setting that contributes to our clients’ emotional and cognitive well-being. The goal is to help individuals struggling with symptoms maintain some level of independence. We provide dementia care clients with the following:
Activities that benefit physical, cognitive and emotional health
Mobility assistance
Physical safety measures to account for wandering or confusion
Medication management
Transportation services
Prompt appointment and medical reminders
Medical services when needed
Alzheimer’s Disease Care
In the later stages of Alzheimer’s, new challenges require a more intentional form of care. Alzheimer’s care services focus on maintaining a client’s quality of life and mitigating the impact of the disease. The intense needs of people with Alzheimer’s require specialized training. Our caregivers have the skills to provide all the services mentioned above, with the addition of the following:
Hygiene and continence care
Long-term planning
Crisis prevention
Family counseling
Specialized Care for Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease at Corewood Care
At Corewood Care, we specialize in creating personalized care plans based on a client’s needs. From mild dementia symptoms to late-stage Alzheimer’s disease, our caregivers help clients age in place in the comfort of familiar surroundings. Schedule a free assessment to determine which treatment program is right for your situation.
At Corewood Care, we make it our mission to help our clients thrive and live gracefully. Our care management software provides valuable insight and real-time data, so it’s easier to track your relatives’ health and effectively work toward their well-being goals. Knowing a family member receives reliable care reports and monitoring encourages more peace of mind.
What Is Care Management Software?
Our care management software provides a streamlined way to coordinate our services and handle administrative tasks. By efficiently organizing data and other information, this state-of-the-art technology allows our team to focus more on providing excellent care to our clients.
The digitized platform gives caregivers, staff and authorized relatives access to important information for each client. The system offers many beneficial solutions, including:
Care reports and notes: All reports from our caregivers and staff are immediately available to view in real-time.
Medication monitoring: Integrations allow our caregivers to use precision when tracking the frequency our clients take their medicine.
Well-being monitoring: The system records accurate information about each client’s physical, mental and emotional well-being.
Care plans and tasks: Personalized care plans are suited to each client’s needs and act as a health checklist daily.
Secure GPS location: The technology pinpoints the location of our caretakers and clients for compliance with safety standards.
Health alerts: Technology monitors our clients’ health information and immediately notifies our caregivers about any urgent issues so they can respond promptly.
Care Management Software Versus EHR
An Electronic Health Record (EHR) is a digital version of a client’s health chart. The EHRs offer organization, making it easier to find relevant information quickly. You can think of EHRs as a virtual cabinet or file system.
Our care management software works as a supplemental tool to EHRS. In addition to keeping track of information, the system provides next-level capabilities with monitoring, GPS and alert notifications. These features offer a way to improve clients’ quality of care and lower health risks.
What to Look for in Excellent Software
Effective care management software works as a tool to help everyone reach their goals. At Corewood Care, we’re dedicated to assisting adults to thrive throughout their aging journeys. We strive to provide high-quality health services and meet client needs promptly. Our advanced technology is:
User-friendly: The system is easy to use, so caretakers and staff can input any health-related information with a simple process.
Convenient: Recorded data allows you to stay in the loop, so you can check on your family member’s health at all times.
Accurate: Monitoring and tracking give you real-time insight so you know the information is always correct.
Learn More About Our Care Management Services
At Corewood Care, our cutting-edge technology works as a form of communication between caregivers and families. We’re happy to provide compassionate services and make managing health and daily life easier.
Please explore our care management services to learn how we work with our clients’ unique needs and goals. Our team delivers a tailored approach for crisis prevention, special care situations and long-term planning.
Everyone has unique needs when it comes to receiving caregiver assistance as they age and navigate medical conditions. Several types of care are available to meet a range of circumstances, including 24-hour care and live-in care. While these types of care are similar, 24/7 care and live-in care are not the same.
Here we provide an overview of 24-hour versus live-in care and the benefits of each to help families determine the best option for older adults.
What Is 24-Hour Care?
Twenty-four-hour in-home care is a service in which a caregiver is always present with the person being cared for, providing assistance and support around the clock. This type of care is helpful for individuals who have a chronic illness or disability or are recovering from a major surgery or injury.
Around-the-clock care utilizes two to three caregivers who work in shifts, meaning the client will have at least two different assistants coming and going each day. Caregivers are paid an hourly rate, which can become a significant expense. However, the client determines the length of each shift, usually between eight and 12 hours. Additionally, they can decide if and when the caregiver takes breaks.
Having two to three caregivers during each 24-hour period reassures clients that each caregiver is alert and ready to deliver attentive care during their shift.
The caregiver may assist with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing and grooming, as well as medication management, meal preparation and other forms of support. The level of care provided can vary based on the client’s needs and can range from basic to specialized medical care.
What Is Live-In Care?
Live-in care is a type of care in which a fully trained caregiver lives with the client in their home. The caregiver supports the client’s needs to keep them comfortable and independent at home.
Live-in caregivers stay in the client’s home with them 24 hours a day for four or five days at a time, depending on the situation. Clients typically have two primary caregivers who split the week and alternate on weekends and holidays. Live-in care incurs a flat-rate daily cost, including rest and sleep breaks, which can amount to half the price of 24-hour care.
Live-in caregivers receive two mandatory breaks during their shifts — eight hours for sleeping and another four-hour break during the day. The client may choose to go unsupervised during caregiver breaks or arrange for another caregiver to cover the time.
With one daily caregiver, the client can benefit from more quality time and fewer interruptions to their daily life. However, individuals who choose live-in care must provide a dedicated bedroom for the caregiver, and the required eight-hour sleep break may leave them without direct supervision at night. Even so, the caregiver is always close by in case of an urgent need.
Live-in care is a popular choice for anyone who wishes to remain in their home while receiving the care and support they need. It’s an excellent option for anyone who wants to maintain independence and stay in familiar surroundings. It’s also a good choice for individuals with complex care needs, as live-in caregivers can provide the one-on-one attention their condition requires.
Hospice vs. Palliative Care
While hospice care and palliative care are related concepts, they differ in a few ways. Each type of care provides physical and psychosocial relief from complex symptoms related to serious illness. Pain and symptom relief are the objectives of each, just with different prognoses and goals of care.
Hospice care provides comfort with no intention of curing the client. It’s designed for a person with a serious illness who is approaching the end of life. Hospice care focuses on the care, comfort and quality of life of those with terminal illnesses expected to have less than six months to live.
Palliative care, on the other hand, is for anyone who has a chronic medical condition. Palliative care provides comfort with or without curative intentions. A key difference between hospice and palliative care is that you can begin palliative care at any point during your illness, while hospice care is typically reserved for the final stages of life.
Hospice care often takes place at home or in home-like hospice residences. If you’re thinking about palliative versus 24-hour care, understand that palliative care occurs in settings such as hospitals, clinics and long-term care facilities and is not round-the-clock. Both hospice and palliative care involve a team of health care professionals who work together to provide care and improve the quality of life for the individual.
The Benefits of 24-Hour Care
Twenty-four-hour care provides many benefits for individuals who need around-the-clock supervision and help with daily activities. These benefits include:
Remaining in familiar surroundings so individuals can remain independent and positive, helping reduce anxiety and stress.
Receiving 24-hour care in multiple environments, including their homes, a personal care center or a nursing facility.
Helping with daily activities like getting dressed, eating meals and bathing.
Managing medications and providing wound care.
Providing older adults with a safe and secure environment, allowing them to receive assistance with their daily needs from caregivers trained to identify and manage any potential safety risks.
Increasing general well-being and provideing an immediate response to medical or other emergencies.
The Benefits of Live-In Care
Live-in care boasts several of its own benefits, such as:
With none of the restrictions associated with institutionalized care, live-in care allows individuals to keep their independence and dignity.
Live-in care enables individuals to maintain the lifestyle they’re used to, keeping beloved pets and attending their usual social activities, which can contribute to a better quality of life.
Live-in care can reduce the cost of care by offering room and board, especially when the older adult has plenty of space at their current residence.
Live-in care allows older adults to receive the assistance they need in a private setting, set their own schedule and remain part of their home community.
Live-in caregivers provide all the same types of care that other home care or home health care workers provide, including personal care, assistance with activities of daily living, companionship and nursing services if trained.
Corewood Care Offers Exceptional 24-Hour Care Services
If you’ve decided that 24/7 care services are best for your aging family member, you can count on the trustworthy professionals at Corewood Care. We provide clients in Bethesda, MD, and surrounding areas with reliable, quality and professional in-home care.
With Corewood Care, older adults enjoy round-the-clock support as needed, 24 hours a day and seven days per week. We’re committed to helping our clients live and age gracefully, and we look forward to meeting the older adult in your family. Contact Corewood Care today to schedule a free assessment.
At Corewood Care, we recognize that each client we work with is an individual with unique needs. Complex care management seeks to meet as many of these needs as possible through comprehensive, interdisciplinary care that listens to our clients and adjusts accordingly. If a client has a current care plan, complex management will evaluate it to determine areas to improve upon so that each person can get the high-quality care they deserve.
What Is Considered Complex Care?
While care management also seeks to empower clients through individualized, holistic care, complex care management takes things a step further. It is ideal for older adults with chronic health conditions, mental health needs and other situations that may require more intensive services than is usual. Complex care explores every part of one’s daily life and looks for areas to improve quality of life. It may involve:
Developing a specialized treatment plan based on existing medical needs and personal preferences.
Offering health care support and information so that clients and caregivers can make informed decisions about their future.
Educating clients and caregivers about handling medications, physical therapy and other potential needs.
Working with a team of medical, social and community specialists to help better manage existing conditions.
Using our state-of-the-art technology and data collection tools to monitor health and react quickly to changes.
Who Qualifies for Complex Care for Seniors?
There are no strict guidelines for who qualifies for complex care management. Most professionals consider complex care for individuals who need additional assistance in some way. They may have just been released from a hospital, rehabilitation or an inpatient treatment center, or they may have trouble navigating financial situations and cultural differences. They may live in an area that does not have the necessary accommodations to help them safely navigate their community.
Essentially, anyone who feels they may benefit from more comprehensive assistance than what is typical in care management should learn more about Corewood Care’s complex care management.
Learn More About Complex Care Management From Corewood Care
At Corewood Care, we pride ourselves on offering quality care from trained and licensed professionals. We listen to our clients when they tell us what they need and invite them to get involved with their integrative care.
Whether you’re exploring complex care management for yourself or someone close to you, we encourage you to reach out to our compassionate care team today. We will be happy to provide you with more information about how to get started with any of our care services.
Companion care and personal care are different kinds of in-home caregiving services. While both may seem similar, each provides unique benefits for clients and their families. While companion care focuses on social and emotional support, personal care services focus on personal hands-on assistance. Learning the difference between the two can help families decide what’s right for older adult relatives.
Undestanding Personal Care?
Personal care services aim to help older adults with activities of daily living (ADLs). Activities of daily living include those a person cannot live without, such as eating, bathing, toileting, walking and dressing. A personal care provider can help older adults function throughout the day and keep them safe.
Clients are given personalized support and undivided attention when they opt for in-home personal care. The caregiver will focus on the client’s needs to help them with ADLs as needed. The goal is to help older adults maintain their independence and have a higher quality of life, as they can receive support from the comfort of their own homes.
What Are Considered Personal Care Services?
Personal care service examples include:
Toileting: Many older adults may have trouble walking and sitting and require assistance going to the bathroom. Personal caregivers can discreetly provide help in a way that makes the person feel comfortable and safe.
Bathing: Bathing can become challenging and unsafe for older adults, especially those with physical impairments. Personal caregivers can help older adults feel safe and comfortable while caring for their personal hygiene.
Dressing: Older adults may face challenges when dressing. Personal caregivers are there to assist clients in putting on their clothing each day while ensuring they have control over their style.
Mobility and transfer assistance: Personal caregivers can help older adults if they have trouble moving and walking independently. They can help clients navigate the home safely, avoid falls and transfer them from the couch or bed.
Feeding: Some older adults can have difficulty feeding themselves or eating a balanced meal. Caregivers will offer help with meal preparation, cooking and eating.
Medications: Personal caregivers can also help older adults remember which medications they should be taking and remind them in taking medicines at the prescribed times.
What Is Companion Care?
Companion care is a home care service providing crucial social and emotional support for older adults. Companion care services aim to help older adults with instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), which include light housekeeping duties, meal preparation, social engagement, running errands, arranging medical appointments, transportation, depending on the client’s needs. Companion caregivers can help older adults struggling with loneliness, depression or a lack of motivation to improve their quality of life.
Companion caregivers will spend time with the client, talking to them and participating in activities together like drawing, painting or taking walks, depending on the client’s interests. The goal is to keep older adults engaged and satisfied doing what they enjoy most.
Companionship: A companion caregiver’s primary goal is to provide social and emotional support for older adults even when family or friends are unavailable. Caregivers can help reduce social isolation and promote a more rewarding and fulfilling life through activities and interactions. Caregivers can also schedule social outings to help clients interact with the community.
Light housekeeping: Some older adults have trouble maintaining housekeeping and completing errands. Companion caregivers can help with light housekeeping duties like sweeping or vacuuming, picking up groceries or going to the laundromat.
Running errands and scheduling appointments: A companion caregiver can accompany older adults on errands and lend a helping hand or can complete the errand for the person. They can assist in scheduling appointments and follow-up appointments and provide older adults with reminders or take notes during the appointment.
Transportation: Older adults might have trouble driving to and from appointments or cannot navigate public transit alone. That’s where companion care services come in. Caregivers can set up safe transportation for clients to get where they need to safely and on time.
While companion caregivers cannot provide medical assistance, they can keep family members informed on the client’s health and well-being if they have any concerns. Companion caregivers can also call for immediate medical aid in the case of an emergency.
Similarities and Differences Between Personal Care vs. Companion Care
Weighing the similarities and differences between personal and companion care can help families decide which service suits an older adult’s needs. The primary differences lie in the types of services provided. Companion caregivers provide regular social support, while personal caregivers are licensed and trained nursing assistants and offer hands-on care and physical assistance.
Personal care providers are trained and qualified to handle immediate and direct physical assistance. They can also assist older adults with chronic health conditions like dementia or diabetes.
Older adults who need social support can benefit from companion care, which aims to reduce loneliness and isolation. As part of this service, clients can also request help with chores like housekeeping and running errands. Companion caregivers can also keep the client company while helping with everyday tasks like organization or meal prep.
These services are similar in how they are both offered at the client’s home and customized according to their needs and schedule. Companion and personal care services aim to help clients feel more independent, comfortable and satisfied with life.
How to Choose the Right Caregiving Service
Hiring the right caregiver is essential to help older adults maintain independence and live in their homes longer, and to provide extra support when family members can’t physically be with them. Use these tips to choose the right caregiving service:
Learn and understand the services well: It can be challenging to know what’s best for a family member, but understanding the caregiving services well can ensure they get exactly what they need. Select services that align with their needs and goals.
Check for alliances and associations: Trustworthy, qualified care professionals ensure their services collaborate with reputed medical institutions. The services provided are based on past proven outcomes and adjusted to improve future ones, ensuring clients get the best care possible.
Credibility: Ensure the caregiver is licensed or trained to care for older adults. Credible caregivers will be specifically trained to care for medical conditions or provide emotional support as needed. They will also undergo a comprehensive hiring process before being accepted based on their qualifications, skills and overall fit.
Get Professional Companion Care and Personal Care Services at Corewood Care
Everyone’s care needs are different. That’s why you’ll want to consider the various services offered through companion and personal care. While companion care is ideal for clients seeking emotional support, personal care services provide hands-on physical assistance. Both options allow your family member to flourish all in the comfort of their home.
At Corewood Care, we can help you figure out the best service for an older adult in your life. If you’re searching for more extensive home services that include both emotional support and medical assistance, we also provide 24/7 in-home care.
Contact us today to learn more about our services and find a care solution for someone in your life. Provide your information, and we will reach out to assess your needs and schedule a free care assessment.
Winter is often synonymous with hunkering down inside and waiting for the temperatures to warm up. However, older adults don’t have to be bored or idle when the weather is cold. There are many activities they can fill their days with, from the comfort of the indoors and even outside if they feel up to an adventure.
Indoor Winter Activities for Older Adults
The winter months are a great opportunity to cozy up indoors. Fortunately, many fun and stimulating activities can be done inside to help keep older adults mentally and physically active. Explore the following ideas for things for elderly people to do inside.
Decorate for the Season
The holidays are one of winter’s many joys. Decorating for the season is a fun, mood-brightening way for older adults to welcome the colder months, partake in an engaging activity and add some festive flair to their living space.
Do-it-yourself seasonal decorations are a great option for older adults who want to get crafty. Sites like YouTube and Pinterest are full of ideas and tutorials for homemade decorations.
Complete Puzzles and Word Games
Older adults can keep their minds sharp by engaging in intellectually stimulating activities. Puzzles and games like crosswords, word searches and Sudoku can benefit brain health by giving older adults the opportunity to use problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
Find puzzles and word games in newspapers, magazines or books. Caregivers and older adults can also search for these games online on a phone, tablet or computer.
Start a Book Club
Older adults who love to read can make it a social activity by starting a book club with family members, friends or members of their community. Book clubs involve choosing a book everyone agrees on and meeting periodically to discuss what’s been read. These clubs can even branch out to include works of poetry, news articles or any other pieces of writing.
Older adults can obtain books by visiting their local library or bookstore or by purchasing hard or digital copies online.
Listen to a Podcast
Podcasts are digital audio files that feature a host or speaker discussing a particular topic. They’re available to download on apps such as Pandora, Spotify, Apple and Google Podcasts. Podcasts exist for nearly every subject imaginable and, as such, are a great way for older adults to have a laugh, catch up on news, learn something new or just explore what’s out there.
Cook
Cooking is an activity that older adults can do independently or with friends and family any time of year, but wintry weather makes getting in the kitchen and making nourishing meals all the more enjoyable.
Older adults can find joy in cooking family-favorite recipes or try something new by experimenting with different cuisines. Dishes like soups, stews and chili are perfect for warming up on cold winter days.
Cooking for oneself or others can be an empowering activity as well as a way to show love. Older adults can bond with younger generations by teaching them how to cook, or make it a group activity by having close friends or family over to enjoy the meal.
Engage in Low-Impact Exercise
It’s widely known that exercise does wonders for our physical and mental health, and the cold doesn’t have to stop older adults from reaping the benefits. Many low-impact movements can be done indoors, such as yoga, stretching and chair exercises.
Gentle resistance training, such as with bands or light weights, is a great way to keep older adults strong and active during winter months. Daily sessions of 30 to 60 minutes can help older adults experience positive results, including:
Strengthened bones and muscles
Reduced risk of chronic disease
Enhanced cognitive function
Improved mental health
Outdoor Winter Activities for Older Adults
Getting outdoors to enjoy fresh air and nature can be a wonderful way for older adults to explore the world, stay active and nurture relationships. Staying safe and warm outside during winter simply requires a bit of planning and precautionary measures. The winter months offer the following unique outdoor opportunities.
Visit Holiday Attractions
Holiday attractions are a great opportunity to gather the family and do something fun and festive. Following are a few ideas for holiday attractions and events:
Christmas tree farms
Holiday markets
Holiday light tours
Caroling
Church services
Have a Snow Day
Snow days don’t mean older adults have to stay cooped up inside. There are many ways to get outdoors and relish in the pristine beauty of a snowy landscape:
Go for a stroll: Older adults can take in the quiet charm of a snow day with a gentle walk on a cleared sidewalk. Warm clothing, a hat, gloves and shoes suitable for snow can help keep them safe from falls and low temperatures.
Build a snowman: Building a snowman can be a joyful and nostalgic activity, especially when children join. Older adults can actively participate by decorating the snowmen or find a comfortable seat and supervise the fun.
Watch the birds: Snow provides the perfect backdrop to watch winter birds as they explore their surroundings and hunt for food.
Staying Safe and Warm Outdoors
It’s essential for older adults to properly prepare themselves before spending time outdoors in the winter. Older adults can become sick if they get too cold.
Aging bodies don’t retain heat as well as they once did. Furthermore, physical changes due to aging can blunt an older adult’s awareness of the cold, so they may not realize they’re getting chilly until the situation has escalated. Hypothermia can occur if body temperature drops below 95 degrees, leaving older adults at risk of many serious health problems.
Caregivers can help older adults avoid hypothermia by implementing a few tips and tricks before they head outdoors:
Bundle up in loose layers of clothing: The air between the layers can help keep heat close to the body.
Add a scarf and hat: An exposed head and neck can be major sources of body heat loss.
Don’t stay out in the cold for extended periods: Outdoor activities should be kept brief to ensure older adults’ safety.
Wear waterproof shoes in snowy or wet weather: Feet are at risk of hypothermia if they become wet in the cold.
Live Gracefully With Corewood Care
At Corewood Care, we understand the importance of staying physically and mentally active in the later years of life, no matter the season. If you’re searching for things to do in the winter with elderly parents or friends, our companion care can help keep them active and entertained.
Corewood Care’s aging life care experts meet older adults where they are, whether at home, in the hospital, in an older adult community or elsewhere, to assist with daily activities, provide guidance, manage health and much more.
Let the older adults in your life thrive and live gracefully with Corewood Care. Reach out to us today.
Experts estimate that one out of every four older adults fall each year in the United States. As we grow older, physical changes, medications and health conditions can make falls more likely and lead to hip fractures, cuts and even severe or fatal head injuries.
Fortunately, if you have an older friend or family member, you can be proactive to prevent falls and keep them safe. Fall prevention for older adults starts with fall-proofing their living space, working on balance and strength training and making other simple yet effective changes.
Try out a few of these tips to help an older adult in your life avoid injuries and maintain a healthier, happier lifestyle.
Falls are the leading cause of injuries in older adults, making these incidents a public health concern among the aging population. To minimize the risks and help someone close to your stay safe, try the following fall prevention techniques:
1. Regular Exercise and Activity
Some exercises can reduce the risk of falling. Exercises focusing on balance and strength training can significantly help reduce the risk of falling. Remember that certain physical activities should only be reserved for older adults with a low risk of falling who can stand independently without support.
Lifting weights can help older adults improve their muscle strength, which often diminishes with age. Resistance bands are another option to help with exercises. A sit-to-stand exercise can also help improve balance and body mechanics to reduce falls.
While exercise can help prevent falls, it’s equally beneficial for older adults’ physical and mental health. Consult with their physician to ensure they get the recommended amount of physical activity each week.
2. Try Yoga
Yoga is another way to help older adults prevent falls, with many poses focusing on improving strength and balance. Yoga can also help people stay mindful and enhance cognitive function. You can help an older adult in your life prevent falls, relieve stress and stay centered with the following yoga poses:
Mountain pose: This yoga pose helps with balance and grounding. Older adults should stand tall with their heels together, drawing a deep breath in and out while relaxing their shoulders.
Tree pose: This pose is excellent for abdominal and leg strength, helping older adults with balance and focus. Have them stand tall and place one foot on their opposite inner thigh, either below or above the knee. Next, have them open their leg to the side and bring their hands to a prayer position to hold for five breaths.
Downward-facing dog: This position is excellent for flexibility, joint health and all-over body strength. Older adults should go on their hands and knees before shifting downward and lifting the hips up and back to form a triangle with the body. Next, have them use their core strength and legs to bring the weight back as much as possible, lowering down after five to eight breaths.
Savasana: This pose can help reset the nervous system and restore a sense of calm to the mind and body. Have your family member lie on their back in final relaxation, allowing the floor to support them. Instruct them to relax the muscles and take deep breaths as long as needed.
3. Use Assistance Devices and Alarms
Fall prevention for older adults often starts with installing alarms and assistive devices in the home. Older adults can utilize several devices to prevent falls or call for help in case they occur. These individuals can also wear monitors or install them in the home, making contacting and receiving emergency help easier.
Other assistive devices to fall-proof a home include:
Voice commands for smart hubs: Voice control can benefit older adults. Smart hubs compile the smart devices in the home so they can control them through voice automation from one hub. Older adults can make and take calls, stream TV shows and even control the lights through voice commands. The device can reduce the number of times an older adult uses the stairs or moves around the home, reducing their risk of falling.
Stairlifts: For many older adults, stairlifts make an excellent investment. As we age, climbing stairs is more dangerous as we lose muscle strength. With a stairlift, your older family member can ascend and descend stairs safely and without assistance.
Programmable smart lights: Lighting is essential to prevent falls. With smart lights, older adults can control the brightness of a room or walkway with a remote. They can also program the lights to turn on as they enter certain areas.
Canes and walkers: Assistive devices like canes and walkers can help your older family member feel steady as they walk, helping to prevent falls. These devices are accommodating in unfamiliar places or where walkways are uneven.
4. Wear Sensible Shoes
It’s essential to wear the proper footwear to prevent falls. High heels, shoes with slick soles and floppy slippers can all lead to trips or stumbles. Instead, have your family member opt for adequately fitting, sturdy, flat shoes with nonskid soles. Sensible shoes that are correctly fitted can also reduce joint pain.
5. Keep Hands Free
Older adults should leave their hands free while walking to ensure they can catch themselves if they trip or stumble. Shoulder bags, fanny packs or backpacks can also help keep the hands free, so they can hold onto railings while walking in or outside the home. When grocery shopping alone, ensure they follow the same protocols with shoulder bags to carry groceries and heavier items.
6. Maintain Optimal Health
Identifying and treating health risk factors is also essential for preventing falls. For instance, treating blood pressure, calcium supplementation, vitamin D and visual impairments is crucial.
Older adults can also take preventive health measures such as:
Having eyes and hearing tested: Even minor changes in hearing and sight are linked to an increased risk for falls. It’s essential for older adults to wear their glasses or contacts as their doctors advise and wear hearing aids correctly.
Getting plenty of sleep: Being tired or fatigued can lead to more falls. That’s why older adults need to get plenty of rest. Experts recommend these individuals get at least seven to nine hours of sleep a night.
Discussing side effects of medications: Older adults need to learn about and discuss any side effects of medications they take. For instance, if a medicine makes them tired or dizzy, they should tell their health care provider.
Avoiding or limiting alcohol: Consuming too much alcohol can cause balance issues and falls, making it essential for older adults to avoid or limit alcohol use.
7. Lighten Your Living Space
One way to fall-proof a home is by lighting up the living space. A brightly lit home can help them avoid tripping on objects that are hard to see. This is especially crucial for older adults with visual impairments. Lighten a space by:
Placing night lights along hallways and in the bedrooms and bathrooms.
Placing lamps close to bedsides.
Making clear paths to light switches.
Trading traditional switches for illuminated or glow-in-the-dark switches.
Installing lights in stairways.
Storing flashlights in easy-to-find places in case of power outages.
8. Stay Inside During Severe Weather
Another vital fall prevention technique for adults is to stay inside in the event of bad weather. Some community services will provide 24-hour delivery of groceries and prescriptions, while many take orders over the phone. If you have an older friend or family member, encourage them to stay inside to prevent falling due to heavy rain, snowfall or ice.
9. Talk to Your Health Care Provider
While many older adults fall yearly, research shows fewer than half discuss it with their doctors. Older adults should make appointments with their health care provider to help avoid fatal or nonfatal injuries. The doctor may assess their risk and discuss fall prevention techniques to help. They may want to discuss the following:
Medications: It’s helpful to bring a list of prescriptions or nonprescription drugs and supplements to the doctor. That way, they can review the medications for side effects or interactions that could increase a person’s risk of falling.
Any previous falls: If an older adult close to you falls, have them write down the details, including when, where and how they fell. They should also discuss instances where they almost fell and managed to grab support in time. Details like these can help your health provider develop specific fall prevention techniques.
Health conditions: Specific ear and eye disorders might increase an older adult’s risk of falls. They should always discuss these health conditions and any dizziness, shortness of breath or foot issues that might occur while walking. That way, health providers can evaluate muscle strength, walking style and balance to help come up with a plan to prevent falls.
Whether it’s electrical cords, slippery floors or uneven stairs, many factors in the home can increase a person’s risk of falling. Therefore, fall prevention for older adults should start with creating a safe, hazard-free living space. If you have an older family member, look around your home for anything that could cause a slip, tumble or fall.
To fall-proof your home, do the following:
Store necessities within easy reach: Older adults should keep items like clothing, medication and food within easy reach. That way, they can avoid falls by attempting to reach for objects out of reach. This can also reduce joint strain, ensuring more convenient, comfortable access to their needs.
Repair flooring: Be sure to repair any loose wooden floorboards and carpeting immediately. Reduce trip hazards to help an older family member navigate the house safely and take note of any uneven flooring.
Restrain pets: If you have pets, ensure they can’t get underfoot, as this can quickly lead to trips and falls. You might use leashes or baby gates to keep them out of the bathroom and off the stairs to prevent your family member from falling. Training them is another way to keep them away from their feet while walking inside and outdoors.
Remove loose items from the floor: Be sure to secure loose throw rugs with double-faced tape or slip-resistant backing to reduce trip hazards in the home. Also, keep smaller items off the floor, like newspapers, boxes and electrical cords. Move larger ones, like coffee tables and plant stands, away from high-traffic areas.
Illuminate dark areas: We rely on our vision to keep balance. Walking in a dark room can increase the risk of falling. That’s why it’s essential to brighten the areas where older adults might walk after dark, including hallways, stairs and basements.
Slip-proof bathrooms and quickly clean spills: Slipping and falling in the bathroom can lead to severe injuries. Steam and water can make the floors slippery, so using nonslip mats in the shower and tub is essential. Install grab bars in the shower, so older adults have something to reach for if they lose balance. In addition, be sure to quickly clean any spilled liquids or grease from the floor to prevent falls.
Consider 24/7 In-Home Assistance at Corewood Care
At Corewood Care, we provide an extra layer of assurance and safety for older adults with personal care services and 24/7 in-home assistance. Our aging life care experts will design a holistic care plan to help your family member manage their health needs while providing supervision to prevent falls and injuries.
For example, our caregivers can ensure your family member eats and drinks enough to avoid fainting or dehydration. We can also assist them in their physical health goals, encouraging them to participate in daily walks or attend physical therapy.
Every person’s needs are different, so schedule a free assessment to discuss how our home care options can help someone in your life.
Older adults are at a higher risk for health problems and injuries as the temperatures drop. In Maryland, the colder temperatures can be hazardous, potentially leading to frostbite, slips on ice or hypothermia. For older adults, any of these incidents can quickly become serious. You can take a few precautions to ensure a loved one’s safety and happiness. Continue reading for wellness tips, exercises and ways older adults can combat loneliness in the winter.
Everyone deserves to have security throughout the winter. Still, some health conditions can make it dangerous for older adults to be in cold weather, causing their bodies to work harder to stay warm. Be mindful of how the following health conditions interact with the cold.
Diabetes: Colder temperatures make managing blood glucose levels challenging. The weather can keep blood from flowing normally to provide warmth.
Asthma: People with asthma experience shortness of breath or wheezing that can intensify in cold weather as their airways become constricted.
Parkinson’s disease and arthritis: Parkinson’s disease and arthritis can come with mobility challenges, making it more difficult for older adults to dress warmly, use blankets or go indoors.
Thyroid problems: Thyroid problems can slow metabolism and cause the core body temperature to drop. As a result, people with thyroid problems may have a low tolerance for the cold and have difficulties maintaining normal body temperature.
Memory loss: Memory challenges can cause a person to go outside without suitable clothing or emergency supplies, such as a cellphone or cane.
Consult with a health care provider to prevent any health-related challenges in the winter months. Physicians can ensure older adults take their medications regularly and note expired drugs. They can also recommend ways to avoid hypothermia and keep warm in the winter.
Ice, snow and cold temperatures can lead to slippery sidewalks, and cold weather can increase the risk of illnesses and injuries, especially among the aging population.
Here are a few winter safety risks and precautions you can take to keep an older friend or family member safe.
Fall Hazards
Falls are the leading cause of nonfatal and fatal injuries among older adults. With snow and ice building up in the winter, simple activities like walking to the car or mailbox can become treacherous. Fortunately, they can take several precautions to avoid slipping and falling on ice:
Ensure steps and walkways are clear before walking.
Wear boots with non-skid soles.
Use canes with attachments that can provide traction in the snow.
Hire someone to clear away snow and salt walkways around the home.
Schedule home deliveries for groceries or prescriptions to avoid going outside in icy conditions.
Fire and Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
During the winter, many people rely on fireplaces or other heating sources like natural gas and kerosene. However, fireplaces and gas appliances can leak dangerous amounts of carbon monoxide — a deadly gas you cannot see or smell. These appliances can also be fire hazards. Warning signs of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, nausea or vomiting, weakness, confusion or blurred vision.
To keep friends and family members safe, take the following precautions:
Call an inspector to ensure all appliances are safe, including chimneys and flues.
Open a window when using a kerosene stove.
Be sure smoke detectors are in good working condition.
Exercise caution with space heaters — do not leave them running unattended.
Make sure space heaters are at least three feet away from anything flammable.
Keep a functioning fire extinguisher in the house.
Never use appliances like gas stoves or charcoal grills for home heating.
If you believe someone you know has carbon monoxide poisoning, get them into fresh air and call for medical care immediately.
Accidents While Driving
Older adults get in more vehicle accidents per mile than any other demographic. Unpredictable weather conditions and sometimes hidden road barriers can increase the chances of an accident. Ensure your friend or family member prepares their car for winter with antifreeze and a heating and cooling inspection.
If they must travel in winter conditions, ensure they have the following supplies in their car:
First-aid kit
Cellphone
Windshield scraper
Booster cables
Blankets
Shovel
Flashlight
Extra clothes
Rock salt
Water
Canned or dried foods
Having the above supplies can keep them prepared to handle an emergency.
Hypothermia
As we grow older, we lose body heat much faster than when we were young. Older adults often produce less body heat and experience changes that make it more challenging to be aware of getting cold. As a result, winter temperatures can become dangerous before an older person even knows what is happening.
If body temperatures drop too low, hypothermia can set in. Older adults have an increased risk of hypothermia, which can occur when exposed to freezing temperatures for an extended time. Warning signs of hypothermia include:
Cold, pale and ashy skin
Feeling weak, tired and confused
Problems walking
Anger or confusion
Puffy or swollen face
Slowed breathing or heart rate
Slower-than-usual speech
Losing consciousness
To stay warm as an older adult in Bethesda, Md., take the following precautions:
Stay indoors in frigid temperatures.
If you must venture outdoors, dress warmly and don’t stay out for too long.
Stay dry, since wet clothing can cause the body to lose heat faster.
Wear a waterproof jacket or coat.
Wear layers of loose-fitting clothing.
Wear hats, gloves, a winter coat, boots and a scarf to cover your mouth and nose outdoors.
Living in a cold house, apartment or an assisted living center can also cause hypothermia. Pay close attention to the inside temperature and ensure your friend or family member wears plenty of warm clothes if they live alone.
Frostbite
Frostbite is a condition caused by freezing temperature damage to the skin. Common areas for frostbite include the nose, ears, chin, cheeks, fingers and toes. Severe frostbite can result in a loss of limbs. Older adults with heart disease or circulation problems are at an increased risk.
Cover all body parts when venturing outdoors to prevent frostbite in the winter. If you notice red or dark skin that hurts, ensure your friend or family member goes back inside right away. Other signs of frostbite include:
White, ashy or gray-yellow skin
Hard or waxy skin
Numbness
If you notice that someone has frostbite, run the affected area under warm water and call for emergency medical help.
Seasonal Affective Disorder
Older adults are at risk of depression and can be especially susceptible to it in the colder months. Because it can be challenging and risky to travel, many older adults have less contact with friends or family, which can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Seasonal affective disorder occurs when a person has a lower mood in the fall and winter as the days get shorter.
Watch for signs of seasonal depression, such as:
Mood swings and sudden behavioral changes
Loss of interest in hobbies
Withdrawal from social activities
Changes in sleep patterns, weight, appetite or hygiene
If you notice signs of seasonal depression as an older adult in Bethesda, Md., consult with a health care provider or mental health professional. They may help determine whether your symptoms meet the criteria for SAD and provide counseling or medication to treat symptoms. Family members can check in on older adults or hire caregivers to provide companionship throughout the winter. A daily phone call can also improve their mental health by combating loneliness.
Should I Shovel Snow as an Older Adult in Bethesda, Md.?
As the snow and ice build up, older adults often wonder whether they should shovel their homes or hire a service. The answer to the question will depend on a few factors. In colder temperatures, the heart works overtime to move blood in the body and keep us warm. Activities like shoveling snow can put too much strain on the heart, especially on those who have heart disease. Shoveling can also be dangerous for people with balance problems or osteoporosis.
Older adults should consult a health care provider about whether shoveling and other outdoor winter tasks are safe for them. If they decide to shovel, it’s essential to take the above precautions to prevent falling, hypothermia, frostbite or health complications.
Set the heat to at least 68 degrees Fahrenheit: To prevent hypothermia, you should set your family member’s indoor temperature at 68 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer. You can help save on heating bills by closing doors to unused rooms. You can also place a rolled towel in front of each door to keep out drafts.
Keep curtains closed: Ensure the house isn’t losing heat through the windows. Keep curtains and blinds closed and apply weatherstripping or caulk to keep the cold air out in the winter.
Dress warmly: Blankets, socks and slippers come in handy in the colder months. Older adults should dress warmly indoors and layer up when leaving the house.
Drink alcohol in moderation: Alcoholic drinks can make you lose body heat, so it’s best to avoid or limit alcohol consumption.
Check on family members: Remember to check up on older adults in the cold weather. Try to stay with them if a power outage leaves them without heat.
Be careful with space heaters: While it can be tempting to warm a room with a space heater, remember that some can be a fire hazard or lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.
Stock up on essential items: Older adults should stock up on basic supplies like nonperishable food and water in case severe weather makes it dangerous to leave home for a few days. Keep flashlights and batteries at the ready as well.
Hire in-home assistance: While many older adults care for themselves, others require in-home care services. Arrange these services for someone close to you during weather emergencies and to help them through the winter season. Professional caregivers can help with general tasks that are often more difficult with treacherous roadways or without electricity.
Following the above steps can ensure someone close to you is safe and cozy throughout the winter.
Exercise is vital for people of all ages, especially older adults. Staying active can reduce their risk of chronic health conditions and improve strength, mood and balance to prevent injuries or seasonal depression in the winter. To get moving and stay healthy amid challenges posed by the winter, follow these tips.
Use library resources: An easy way to maintain physical activity is to use resources available at the public library. Many libraries provide access to exercise videos and books that focus on safe, low-impact movements for older adults.
Do virtual workout classes: Older adults can attend a virtual fitness class instead of venturing outdoors in treacherous conditions. Look for local fitness clubs and other resources for older adults that provide virtual classes or one-on-one training.
Follow online videos: Search for exercise programs specifically for older adults that include activities like stretching, strength training and low-impact cardio.
Incorporate movement in the day: While weather conditions might be dangerous, that doesn’t mean older adults can’t get up and move indoors. Have your older family member schedule activities into their days, such as marching in place during a favorite show’s commercial break or doing squats while making lunch.
Talk to a health care provider before participating in the following exercises. Older adults with a history or falls, heart disease or vertigo should find the activities right for them. Here are some examples of exercises they might incorporate into their winter routine.
Endurance: These types of exercises increase breathing and heart rate. Examples include climbing stairs, dancing or brisk walking.
Strength: Strong muscles can help older adults stay independent and complete everyday tasks much more easily. Examples include using resistance bands or lifting weights.
Balance: These activities can reduce an older adult’s risk of falls. Examples include standing on one foot and then the other, marching in place or doing yoga positions like the tree pose.
Flexibility: Any exercises that incorporate stretching and flexibility can increase a person’s range of motion and make daily tasks easier. Chair yoga is an excellent way for older adults to maintain flexibility.
Schedule Home Care Assistance at Corewood Care
From hypothermia and fall-related injuries to seasonal affective disorder, the winter can come with several challenges for older adults. If you have an older adult in your life who you care about, consider home care assistance services from Corewood Care. We offer services throughout the metropolitan Washington, D.C., area, providing companionship and personal care services and ensuring safe transportation during the winter.
Our compassionate caregivers can also provide light housekeeping to prevent falls in the home, ensure daily nutrition and encourage physical activity. We also offer social and emotional support for your loved one when you can’t be with them. To learn more about our services, contact us today.
Getting a flu shot and a COVID-19 vaccination or booster are two easy ways for people to protect themselves and their families against illness. Getting vaccinated is especially important for older adults who are at a higher risk for health complications caused by these illnesses. Many people can even receive both vaccines at the same time.
Keep reading to learn more about the differences between COVID-19 and flu vaccines and their benefits.
Should Older Adults Get a Flu Shot or COVID Booster?
Older adults should get both shots to protect themselves from influenza and COVID-19, which can pose serious health risks for people over 65. These vaccines can help protect you and those around you, and getting both at the same time is both convenient and safe.
The symptoms of flu and COVID-19 can be similar, and people can be infected with them simultaneously, with symptoms posing a severe risk for adults 65 and over. That’s why experts advise the best thing you can do to protect yourself and prevent hospitals from overflowing is to get immunized against these circulating viruses.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends older adults get a higher dosage or adjuvant flu vaccine since it can be more effective than standard-dose flu vaccines. In fall 2022, they also recommended the bivalent COVID-19 booster for those older than 5 who have already completed the first series if it has been at least two months since their last COVID-19 vaccine dose.
Older adults should speak to their health care provider for information about these vaccines to learn what is best for them.
Differences Between the Flu and COVID Shot
There are several differences between the flu and COVID-19 vaccines. While these illnesses have similar symptoms, they are not caused by the same virus. Therefore, flu and COVID-19 vaccines are designed to protect against the specific viruses that cause their illnesses.
The updated COVID-19 bivalent booster targets the original virus that causes COVID-19 and its variants. It is especially helpful for older adults and people at heightened risk for severe illness and death. In contrast, the flu shot protects against the four influenza viruses that research predicts will be most common during the upcoming season.
From what researchers know, COVID-19 spreads more easily than the flu and causes more severe illness in some people. People with COVID-19 may take longer to display symptoms and can be contagious for longer. That’s why many efforts have been made to encourage people to stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccines to reduce the risk of severe symptoms.
Like the flu shot, the COVID-19 vaccine causes an immune response, developing antibodies to protect you from getting sick.
Benefits of the Flu and COVID Shot
Getting the flu and COVID-19 shot presents several benefits. Influenza can cause serious complications, especially for older adults and people with certain medical conditions. By many estimates, the flu causes more than 400,000 hospital stays and 50,000 deaths yearly.
The CDC finds that the flu vaccination reduces the risk of medically attended illness by more than 60% among people 65 and older. It also reduces the risk of severe complications and even death caused by influenza. The same can be said about the COVID-19 vaccine, which can reduce morbidity and mortality for older adults at increased risk of health complications.
Protecting from these illnesses also relieves strain on family members and caregivers. By getting the COVID-19 booster and flu shot, you can stay healthy and spend more time with friends and family.
Flu and COVID Vaccine FAQ
Here are our answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the flu and COVID-19 vaccines:
Can the COVID Booster or Flu Shot Make Me Sick?
You can’t get a cold or flu from the flu shot since the vaccine is made from an inactivated virus. However, some people may experience mild symptoms. Additionally, it takes up to two weeks to get protection from the vaccine, so it’s possible to get the flu in that time.
Side effects from the COVID-19 vaccine can occur as the body builds protection against the virus that causes COVID-19. Symptoms vary from person to person — some people experience mild discomfort, while others have side effects that disrupt their daily activities.
The booster shot can cause mild to moderate symptoms like:
Fever
Headache
Fatigue
Pain at the injection site
How Often Should I Get a Flu Shot?
The CDC recommends people get vaccinated once a year by the end of October, though getting it after can still provide protection during the peak of flu season.
Since flu viruses change quickly, last year’s vaccine may not protect you from this year’s virus. New vaccines are released yearly to keep up with these changes. While the vaccine helps your immune system makes antibodies to protect against the virus, they can decline over time, making it beneficial to get the flu shot every year.
People are best protected from illness when they stay up to date on recommended doses and boosters when eligible. The best advice is to discuss the vaccines with your health provider to learn more about the vaccine and what is best for you.
Can I Get a Flu Shot and Booster Shot at the Same Time?
Yes, the CDC has determined it is safe to get the flu shot and COVID-19 booster simultaneously. Getting both can ensure that you get all of the necessary vaccines in case you cannot return for additional vaccines at a later time.
Where to Get Flu Shots and COVID Booster Near Me?
Many clinics provide free community vaccines throughout the D.C. Metropolitan area. You can get a COVID-19 booster in Bethesda, MD, by going to the Maryland Department of Health website and scheduling an appointment. You can get a flu shot in Bethesda, MD, by scheduling an appointment on the Montgomery county health department website. You can also receive a flu shot and COVID-19 booster from your health care provider or neighborhood pharmacy.
Corewood Care Can Provide Transportation Services to Receive Your Vaccines and More
With flu season lasting from October through February, it’s essential for older adults to get their vaccinations to protect themselves. Pairing it with the COVID-19 vaccination adds extra protection from health complications caused by both viruses.
Are you or someone you know interested in transportation services to receive vaccines? Or do they need help around the house as the side effects linger for a short time? Learn more about Corewood Care’s senior home care and personal care services. Our caregivers are some of the best in the industry and can provide care that addresses mental, physical and emotional health. We offer services throughout the D.C. Metropolitan area.
To learn more about our services, contact us today.
Are you struggling to persuade an aging parent to consider additional support? You aren’t alone. This struggle is more common than you might think. Many adult children don’t know what to do when their parents refuse help at home.
While many older adults resist care, those who accept and receive care prefer home and community-based care over long term care communities such as assisted living facilities and nursing homes.
In this guide, you’ll learn why your parent might be refusing care and what to do when they won’t listen to your reasoning. We will also share practical communication tips for having these types of conversations and managing the stresses associated with caring for an elderly parent.
Common Reasons Older Adults and Elderly Parents Refuse Help
There are many reasons your parent might refuse help, including the loss of independence, anxiety about impending changes or fear of change of what once was. For this reason, it’s best to speak with your parent one-on-one to better understand their concerns.
Common reasons for resistance to care or in-home help include:
Loss of Independence: Change is difficult, especially for those who believe they might lose part of their independence.
Loss of control: The household decision maker is no longer in the driver seat – a parent who was once the head of the household or who made all family decisions may dread this loss of control.
Shame, embarrassment or fear: Your parent might feel ashamed, embarrassed or fearful of recent changes in their cognitive or physical state.
Failure to recognize changes: Your parent might not recognize — or wish to ignore — their changing or diminished physical and mental capabilities.
What to Do When Your Elderly Parents Won’t Listen to You
If your parent continues to decline the suggestion of home care services, start with the following strategies.
Have an Open-Minded Discussion With Your Parent
It’s challenging to step back and listen to a parent who refuses care when the writing is on the wall. After all, they’re your parents. You want the best for them. While it’s tempting to believe you hold all the answers, your elderly parent has the right to refuse home care if they’re independent and able to make their own decisions.
First, take a step back to collect your thoughts and emotions. When you’re ready, sit down and have an open-minded discussion with your parent. During your conversation, ask them what their honest thoughts, concerns and fears are about accepting help, and be sure to listen thoroughly before you respond.
Remember — always speak in an uplifting manner and avoid pressuring them or using condescending tones.
Assess Your Parent’s Current Home Situation
Evaluate your parent’s current living conditions, day-to-day activities and physical and mental health. Identify what tasks your parent can’t complete independently to pinpoint where they need assistance. For example, your parent might need help with the laundry if their laundry room is located up or down a flight of steps.
Ask your parent to be a part of this process. Being involved is vital for their sense of control. However, they might not wish to be fully honest with you out of shame or embarrassment, so be sure to address this. State frankly but politely what you have seen them struggle with and what services you believe might benefit them.
Get a Second Opinion From a Trusted Individual
Your parents might struggle to take your concerns seriously. To them, it doesn’t feel like that long ago that you were the one that relied on them. They are used to being the caregiver in your relationship. However, your roles are slowly reversing — so fear or stubbornness might cloud their judgment.
To combat this, ask a trusted third party to sit in on a discussion with you and your parent. This person should be someone your elderly parent trusts and admires, like a spiritual guide, or a professional, like a care manager. A second opinion about the benefits of home care services aired by a trusted authority or seasoned professional might reach them in ways you — as their child — could not.
How to Communicate With Your Aging Parents
Here are some practical ways to communicate with your aging parents and present different home care options tactfully:
Practice patience: It’s paramount you are patient with your aging parent. Always consider their perspective. Take deep breaths before responding, and be intentional with your reactions.
Share your concerns: Share your concerns with your parent, especially if you or an elderly spouse is their primary caregiver. Explain the potential consequences of relying on an aging spouse or how challenging it is to keep up with their care. Doing so ensures they understand your perspective, too.
Point out needs: The next time you notice your parent’s housework has fallen behind, they are wearing soiled clothes or they’re feeling lonely, bring up the topic of home care. Suggest they consider selecting a few critical tasks they might need help with.
Provide options: Whenever you discuss home care, make sure your parent understands what it is. Discuss the different services available to them. Let them know they can choose the kind of in-home help they receive and how often.
Emphasize benefits: Explain the benefits of home care that your parent might not have considered before. They will preserve energy, meet new people, have more time and energy for activities they enjoy and remain independent longer.
Tips for Dealing With the Stresses of Caring for an Aging Parent
It’s emotionally taxing caring for an aging parent who refuses help. You might even be struggling with guilt or doubting the idea of home care altogether due to their adverse reaction. However, it’s okay to suggest your parent seek help — if only to give you or their primary caregiver some much-needed respite.
Keep the following tips in mind when dealing with the stresses of caring for an aging parent:
Be kind to yourself: You might accidentally say something hurtful or become emotional during a tough conversation. Forgive yourself, ask for forgiveness and try to approach the subject again after the dust has settled.
Accept the situation: Your parent has the right to refuse in-home help. Try to accept the situation for what it is for your peace of mind. Know you’ve done everything possible to get your parent the help they need. Enlist the help of friends or family members to provide care in the interim.
Seek guidance or counseling: If you’re taking on the responsibility of caring for an elderly parent alone, seek support from a trusted individual or professional counselor. Without respite and support, your emotional needs become neglected, making caring for your parent even more challenging.
Contact Corewood Care Today for Senior Home Care Services
When your parent is ready to consider home care services, turn to Corewood Care. Our friendly team of reliable caregivers specializes in round-the-clock senior home care support services.
We proactively prevent and mitigate risks at home so your parent can thrive and live independently. We’ll provide you and your parent the guidance, tools and options to make the best, most informed care decisions possible.
Contact us today to schedule your free assessment and determine whether our caregivers are the right fit for your loved one.
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