Yearly Archives: 2015

What Really Causes Heart Disease

Healthcare

The cause of heart disease is high cholesterol. It is a medical and scientific fact. Or is it?

There is evidence that not only is this not the cause of heart disease, it is a misconception that is actually causing health problems and obesity in America. Renowned heart surgeon Dr. Dwight Lundell, former Chief of Staff and Chief of Surgery at Banner Heart Hospital in Mesa, Arizona is one of the people who has evidence to support this claim.

According to Lundell, prior to the discovery that inflammation in the arteries could be the real cause of heart disease, the only course of action to prevent or treat heart disease was prescription medications to lower cholesterol and a diet to severely reduce the intake of fats.

These low-fat dietary recommendations that have been long accepted as a beneficial "heart healthy diet" have actually been the culprit behind the epidemics of diabetes and obesity in the United States.

"Despite the fact that 25% of the population takes expensive statin medications and despite the fact we have reduced the fat content of our diets, more Americans will die this year of heart disease than ever before," said Lundell.

The Real Cause Of Heart Disease

So if elevetaed blood cholesterol isn't the culprit, then what is? The answer is inflammation. Inflammation of the artery wall causes cholesterol to get trapped in the arteries where it causes damage. Without inflammation, cholesterol could flow freely through the blood without getting trapped.

Inflammation is your body's natural response to foreign invaders such as a virus or bacteria or toxin. The cycle of acute inflammation is a healthy and important cycle in our bodies, however, when we continually expose our body to the agent that is causing the inflammation, it doesn't have time to heal and thus chronic inflammation is born. Repeatedly consuming food that humans were never designed to process regularly exposes our bodies to unfamiliar bacteria, which leads to chronic inflammation in our bodies and our arteries.

Why would someone repeatedly consume food that is causing this damage? According to Lundell, it is because they had been following the mainstream low-fat, high carb diet that was prescribed to prevent heart disease, not knowing that they were actually causing injury to their bodies.

"The injury and inflammation in our blood vessels is caused by the low fat diet recommended for years by mainstream medicine," said Lundell.

What Causes Inflammation

The biggest culprit of inflammation in our bodies is the overload of simple, highly processed carbohydrates - sugars, flours and all of the products made from them - and the excessive consumption of omega-6 vegetable oils such as soybean, corn and sunflower oils that are found in many processed foods.

Because these foods have a very long shelf-life, they have become staples of the American diet for the past several decades, and according to Lundell, have been poisoning Americans ever since. Although those sweets taste delicious when we consume them, they are wreaking havoc on our bodies.

"A diseased artery looks as if someone took a brush and scrubbed repeatedly against its wall. Several times a day, every day, the foods we eat create small injuries compounding into more injuries, causing the body to respond continuously and appropriately with inflammation," said Lundell.

How Do Carbohydrates Cause Inflammation?

How does a little piece of cake cause so much damage? When we consume simple carbohydrates like sugar, our blood sugar rises rapidly. In response to this, our pancreas produces a substance that exists to bring the sugar into our cells, where it is then stored as fat. However, if the cell is full and doesn't need any more sugar, it will reject it. This increases blood sugar and production even more, creating more excess in the body.

These excess sugar molecules attach to proteins in the blood vessel wall and cause repeated injury, and this injury eventually causes chronic inflammation. And when you consider that that piece of cake or that sweet roll not only contains simple carbohydrates, but is also likely coated in or contains several vegetable oils, the inflammatory property increase exponentially.

"When you spike your blood sugar level several times a day, every day, it is exactly like taking sandpaper to the inside of your delicate blood vessels. While you may not be able to see it, rest assured it is there. I saw it in over 5,000 surgical patients spanning 25 years who all shared one common denominator — inflammation in their arteries," said Lundell.

So What Is The Real Heart Healthy Diet?

Omega-6 oils are not dangerous in-and-of themselves, it is only when they are eaten in excess and the balance between omega-6 oils and omega-3 oils shifts drastically. According to Lundell, the mainstream American diet of processed foods has produced a huge imbalance of these two fats in favor of omega-6.

"There is no escaping the fact that the more we consume prepared and processed foods, the more we trip the inflammation switch little by little each day. The human body cannot process, nor was it designed to consume, foods packed with sugars and soaked in omega-6 oils," said Lundell.

So what can we do to reduce inflammation and truly lower our risk of heart disease?

The one simple answer is to return to eating foods that are closer to their natural state, pure and unprocessed. Eat more protein, choose carbohydrates that are very complex such as colorful fruits and vegetables. Cut down on or eliminate inflammation- causing omega-6 fats like corn and soybean oil and the processed foods that are made from them.

Instead of choosing corn or soybean oil, use natural olive oil or coconut oil, or even butter from grass-fed beef. And add fats back in to your diet. With all the facts surrounding inflammation, it is no longer a legitimate concern to be worried about consuming fats. In fact, quite the opposite. Consuming a proportional amount of saturated fats, especially animal fats is actually good for your body and your heart. Healthy fats can be found in animal products, coconuts and nuts.

"By eliminating inflammatory foods and adding essential nutrients from fresh unprocessed food, you will reverse years of damage in your arteries and throughout your body," said Lundell.

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Source: Dr. Dwight Lundell, M.D. "World Renowned Heart Surgeon Speaks Out On What Really Causes Heart Disease." Disclove.tv. Jan. 21 2015. <http://m.disclose.tv/news/World_Renowned_Heart_Surgeon_Speaks_Out_On_What_Really_Causes_Heart_Disease/113103>

 

Aging In Place: Benefits of Staying Home

All Posts, Family Caregiver Tips, Long Term Care Options

The ability to live alone is a way for older Americans to maintain their independence and identity, and it doesn’t necessarily mean being lonesome. Due to medical advancements and healthier lifestyles, people are living longer, healthier lives, which means they can stay in the workplace longer and save more money, making it an option to stay at home rather than move in with their children, or go in to a facility.

In fact, the percentage of older adults living with their children has dropped from 35% in the 1950s, to a relatively steady 12% since the 1980s, according to the Huffington Post. So why do more and more older Americans want to age in place? What is the allure of staying at home?

What makes aging in place desirable 

  • Familiarity: For older adults, being familiar with their home and surroundings is more than a nice feeling, it means safety. Knowing where things are and having a routine in their home is important for safe aging, especially if they are diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer's.
  • Comfort: There is a reason people get homesick, it's because there is no place like home. Being at home is going to be the most comfortable option that a senior can have. They have their own surroundings and belongings, and will feel the most at ease there.
  • Independence: Being able to remain at home to age means that seniors will have an opportunity to remain more independent. They will be able to continue doing many of the things that have been a part of their lives, and that they enjoy. They also have the ability to maintain relationships with friends and family who live around them, and who they want to visit with.
  • Emotional Well-Being: Our location and the place we live can impact how we feel mentally. When older adults age in place by receiving help at home, they are likely to have a better outlook and feel happier and healthier than if they were confined in a facility.
  • Affordability: With Assisted Living Facilities averaging a monthly rate of $3600, and Nursing Homes an average rate of between $220-$250 daily, depending on the privacy of the room, long term care can have  major financial impact on an individual and a family. In-Home care is generally the most affordably option for long term care, with Homemaker/Companion services and Home Health Aid services having an hourly average of $20 per day (Refer to Genworth Survey for specific statewide costs).

Avoiding burden on a family caregiver

While all of these factors contribute to the desire for seniors to age in place, it is also important to remember that it might not be safe or healthy for some older adults to live completely on their own. Some might need assistance with daily activities, or just regular social interaction that they can't achieve on their own. When this is the case, it is important to get a care provider into the home so that they can age in place with reassurance and safety.

Often times, a family member will take on the role of caregiver for an aging parent that wants to stay home. However, being a family caregiver with no assistance from a professional could have serious impacts on personal lives and careers.

Being the sole caregiver for an aging parent can impact both work time and leisure time, having consequences on personal well-being, income, and relationships. In fact, 60% of family caregivers said being the sole caregiver had negative effects on their jobs, and 33% said they spent more than 30 hours a week on caregiving, according to the Genworth Survey.

Professional In-Home Care options

Bringing a professional care provider into the home allows the elderly loved one to reap all the benefits of aging in place, while giving family members the flexibility to have time for their personal and professional lives. With a professional care provider in the equation, family members can take a step back from the physical and emotional pressure, and define new roles in the caregiving process that fit with their lives and schedules.

There are many options for in-home care providers, so that you can find the best fit for you and your family. In-home care providers can range from Companion to Registered Nurse, and can provide a variety of services. To view rates, the Genworth Survey provides median cost of different levels of caregivers by state.

  • Homemakers & Companions:  Provide help with household tasks that cannot be managed alone. Homemaker services includes “hands-off”care such as cooking, cleaning and running errands.
  • Home Health Aides & Certified Nursing Assistants: Home Health Aides offer services to people who need more extensive care. It is “hands-on” personal care, such as assistance with bathing and dressing, but not medical care.
  • Licensed Practical Nurses & Registered Nurses: People who require medical care, such as wound care/bandage changes, enemas, catheterization and IV flush, require either Licensed Practical Nurses or Registered Nurses. RNs are also known for their critical thinking, leadership, and ability to teach patients about their care.

Care providers can perform hourly, live-in, or respite (temporary) care, depending on the needs of you and your family. Many care providers have specialized training to assist loved ones who may need dementia care or care specific to other chronic diseases like Parkinson's or ALS.  At American In-Home Care, all of the care providers we refer are highly qualified and credentialed, and have also been screened, bonded and insured. Contact us today to set up a free, no-obligation consultation to assess your in-home needs.

 

Home Care For Aging Parents: How To Broach The Subject

Aging, In Home Care

There comes a time when we realize that home care for aging parents is necessary. The moment of realization usually comes in the form of a crisis, perhaps mom fell and broke her hip, or maybe dad went on a walk and couldn't find his way home. Moments like these are frightening, and can bring up feelings of anxiety for what is to come.

How do you talk to your parents about a very complex and sensitive situation? How do you take time away from your job or your own family and children's needs? How do you take care of your parents the same way that they cared for you?

These are all very legitimate questions that arise during a time like this, and the most important thing to do when mom and dad need care is to remain calm and not get frustrated.

1. Have your parent talk to someone outside the family about personal matters

Because many older adults can find the transition to receiving advice and care from their own children somewhat humiliating, it can often be very difficult and frustrating to try to talk to our parents about topics like installing safety equipment in their home, giving up their car keys, or wearing an ID bracelet. But these are conversations that need to be had. To make it easier on both you and your elderly parent, try having them talk to a third party outside of the family about these issues. This third party can either be a friend, or a professional in the form of a therapist or someone in the geriatric care profession.

These third party individuals can help provide a feeling of equality for your parent, and at the very least their advice is more likely to be taken.  Having an outsider to be the one to make unbiased recommendations to your parent about potential safety issues can be instrumental in getting your parent to cooperate.

2. Determine your own needs as well as your parents'

Taking care of an aging parent can add unneeded stress to an already very busy life and schedule. Because of this, it is important to make a plan delegating what your wants and needs as well as the wants and needs of your parents to ensure that you can enjoy the time with your parents rather than spending it arguing.

It is important to determine how closely you are able to be involved with parents' care, while still maintaining the personal and professional jobs and duties of your own. It can be beneficial to speak with a geriatric care manager or an in-home care specialist in this situation to help ensure that the needs and desires you have determined are going to be met.

3. Don't be afraid or embarrassed to seek professional help

This is a time that can be very difficult and frustrating for both you and your parents, so leaning on the advice and expertise of professionals who have experience with geriatric care can be very beneficial. When you start asking yourself the following questions, it may be time to seek out professional help:

  1. Are my parents safe in their home?
  2. Are my parents' health concerns taking me away from my own family and obligations?
  3. Are my parents needs and concerns becoming more than I can manage?
  4. How can I make sure that both my and my parents' needs are being met?
  5. What kind of assistance can me and my parents afford?
  6. What resources are out there that could benefit my parents?
  7. What kind of help would increase my parents' safety while also maintaining their independence?

Whitsyms In-Home Care refers Nurses, HHAs, CNAs, and Companions who provide a wide variety of services, so you can always find the care that is right for your family. Schedule a free consultation with one of our Patient Care Liaisons by calling 1-(800)-952-3881.

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Elderly Pet Owners: What To Consider Before You Adopt

All Posts, Family Caregiver Tips,

Pets are affectionate, caring companions that can make us smile and feel loved and needed. This sense of social interaction and feeling of purpose makes it seem like a pet would be an ideal companion for an elderly person who is alone or melancholy. But this isn't always the case.

There have been studies that show for elderly pet owners who often live alone or in group facilities, pets can help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, increase social interaction, laughter and physical activity, and aid with learning.

And while these things are all undoubtedly beneficial, it is important for seniors wanting pets to consider their own health, well-being, and ability to provide care before committing to a pet.

Questions For Elderly Pet Owners To Consider:

  1. Is your current living situation suitable for the pet you are considering?
    • If you are living in a facility, check their policy to make sure they allow the type of pet you are considering. If you live at home, make sure you have adequate outdoor space and there aren't any obvious hazards inside or out.
  2. Are you planning to move soon?
    • It is important for a pet to have a stable living situation where they can feel comfortable, and that they're not being constantly uprooted. 
  3. Do you or a loved one have allergies, lung conditions, or other health concerns that might be affected by the presence of a pet?
    • It is very common to have pet allergies, so be sure to talk to your doctor before adopting a pet if you know that you or one of your family members has a health condition.
  4. Can you afford the cost of pet care?
    • Pet care can be expensive when you consider the cost of regular food and supplies, plus veterinary care, which increases as your pet ages. Some organizations, such as Purina and Pets For The Elderly, can provide minimal assistance, but most of the financial burden will fall on you.
  5. Do you have the time and/or energy to take care of a pet?
    • Pets also require a lot of attention, focus, time, and energy to ensure their happiness and safety. They require regular grooming, playtime, exercise, and feedings, many of which occur several times a day. Some pets need more attention and energy than others, so be sure to do your research beforehand. But don't be fooled, all pets require attention and proper love and care, which means your time and energy.
  6. Are you able to transport the pet to the vet, and pick up necessary pet care items?
    • You need to be able to drive to have the ability to take your pet to the vet when they need to go, and to go to the store to pick up their supplies. These supplies can often be heavy and cumbersome. Take into account you might need assistance with this.
  7. Is the pet you're adopting the right age for you?
    • Kittens and puppies might be cute, but their energy and behavior might not be the right fit. Consider adopting an older animal. They tend to be require less exercise and are easier to care for, plus you can offer them a loving home when others might not want them.
  8. Would the pet you are considering hinder your personal safety?
    • One of the major concerns for elderly pet owners is pets causing a fall or another injury. There have been studies that show owning cats and/or dogs can be both stressful and dangerous for the elderly. In a report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an average of 86,000 fall injuries associated with cats and dogs occurred each year from 2001-2006. The most common injuries were fractures and contusions/abrasions, with the highest fracture rates occurring among older individuals 

Although these factors should be considered and taken seriously, it is also important to consider the positive effects of having a pet, and determining if one is right for you and your home. It is possible for older adults to safely own, love, and care for a pet, as long as they have done their research and have prepared themselves and their homes.

Finding The Right Pet

While large dogs are easy to see and, thus, harder to trip over, they generally require more physical care, such as frequent walks,  bending over to clean up after them in public, and brushing and grooming. Small dogs can require less physical energy, but can get out of sight and lost easier, or cause falls from being underfoot.

Cats generally require less care than dogs, as they don't need to be taken out for walks and require less grooming. Fish and other types of pets, such as hamsters or birds, could require even less. Remember to select the type of pet with the right temperament for your needs.

The right pet for you also depends on your own budget, energy, time, and physical limitations. You can take quizzes to determine the right pet for you and your home, and look through this checklist to ensure you are ready for your animal. Also consider that individuals with certain disabilities, impairments, or illnesses may be candidates for assistance or therapy dogs that can help them function or interact.

When you are ready to adopt, there are reputable breeders all over the country, but you should also consider adopting from your local shelter to give a homeless animal a new loving home and a new life. June is National Adopt-A-Cat-Month, sponsored by the American Humane Association, and many organizations have adoption assistance programs for older adults, including The Pets for the Elderly Foundation. To find a local animal shelter near you, you can search online by using Petfinder’s search tool.

Ultimately, the decision to bring a pet into your home is your own, and by educating yourself beforehand, it can be a very positive life decision. If you or your loved one decides that you are in need of home care to have a safe environment for you or your pet, contact American In-Home Care at 1-844-505-0004 to set up your free, no-obligation consultation. The care providers we refer perform a variety of services including assistance with pet care, homemaking, Alzheimer's Care and After Surgery Care.

Building A Responsible Doctor-Patient Relationship

All Posts, Chronic Disease Care, Family Caregiver Tips, ,

A Comprehensive Partnership With Your Physician: A Patient's Responsibility

By Marjorie Marcus, MSW

In the past, doctors took the lead and patients typically followed without question. These days, a good doctor-patient relationship is a partnership. So here is what you can do to make your physician visits as productive and effective as possible.

Create a list before your appointment. This will make it easier to fully cover what it is that brought you to your doctor, and ensure that you do not forger any problems or issues you want to discuss. The list should include the following information:

A list of symptoms

This list should include, but not limited to, aches and pains, trouble sleeping, anxiety, moods. Are you sad all the time? Are you more confused lately? This list ensures that you give your doctor an accurate account of what is occurring in your life, mentally and physically. Include when these issues started, how often and how long they last, what makes them better or worse. Be sure to explain how these issues affect your daily activities.

A list of your medications

ALL medications should be listed; non-prescription, herbal remedies, vitamins, even eye drops should be included on this list. Better yet, bring your medications to your appointment. Include dosage, how often and times of day you take these medications. Make sure to note any side effects.

An outline of your daily activities

Be honest when discussing these activities. What do you enjoy doing? How often do you exercise? Do you smoke and/or drink? Describe your sex life. How do you sleep? What and how often do you eat?

Describe any life changes

Examples of these are divorce, death of a loved one (including pets), or a change in living arrangements. These life changes can cause stress, and stress affects our health.

This comprehensive approach of sharing complete information is key to developing a solid doctor-patient relationship. By being open, honest and detailed about your medical and personal condition, you and your doctor will be working together to formulate the comprehensive care plan you desire.

Written by Marjorie Marcus, MSW, a Client Care Liaison for American In-Home Care. Originally published in The Villager's Voices Publication, Palm Coast, FL. Sept. 2015

 

Contact American In-Home Care today at 1-844-505-0004 for your free, no-obligation consultation. We will work with you to match the best care provider and determine the right care options for you and your family.

The Health Benefits of Laughter: It Is The Best Medicine

All Posts, Health and Wellness

"Laughter is the best medicine." That old adage has been passed around for years, but is there any truth to it?

Recent research has found that the effects of a good laugh can reduce stress and pain, boost the immune system, provide social connections and make people generally happier. Reasons like this could explain why we see laughter clubs, Laughter Yoga studios, and institutions like the Laughter Wellness Institute becoming more popular; they are part of the movement to formally introduce laughter into people's lives. This movement has also brought a surge of laughter therapy into senior living facilities in an effort to boost social interaction and happiness among older adults.

Health Benefits of Laughter

Laughter has been shown to improve mood, reduce stress, and change us physiologically, making us more relaxed. However, researchers aren't sure whether these benefits are caused by the physical act of laughing, or the understanding that people who laugh are more likely to have a positive attitude and good social connections, both traits shown to improve longevity. Either way, laughing has been shown to have many positive effects on the body, and it's a fun and easy way to improve overall health.

Laughter can increase your health in the short term by stimulating organs such as the heart, lungs and muscles, increasing blood flow and oxygenation of the cells. This improves circulation, which helps soothe tension in the muscles of the body, resulting in a nice, relaxed feeling for up to 45 minutes after, and improving sleeping habits. Over the long term, laughing regularly can help improve your immune system by producing neuropeptides and infection-fighting antibodies that help fight stress and other serious illnesses. Laughing also helps relieve pain and improves overall mood, lessening depression and anxiety, increasing social connections, and making you feel healthier and happier.

Benefits for Seniors

Laughter is good for anyone, no matter what age. However, recent studies have shown that the laughter is especially beneficial for seniors because laughter therapy is well-suited for aging bodies. Laughter exercises are very low-impact, requiring only use of your mouth, and gentle movement of the arms and legs. Laughter is also good for combatting depression in older adults, which is common due to loss of loved ones, changes in health, and feelings of isolation.

Therapeutic approaches to laughter such as Laughter Wellness and Laughter Yoga are a type of complementary medicine for seniors that can help keep them in good health and good moods. The exercises are low-impact, well tolerated, and easily adaptable to all levels of cognitive, sensory and motor abilities. Best of all: It’s fun!

Benefits of laughter for seniors:

  1. Increases cognitive function: Degeneration of brain cells makes it difficult for many seniors to understand and process humor.  Laughter therapy that relies on laughing alone rather than understanding humor is ideal for seniors to help them reap the many benefits of laughter to improve their health and well-being . As little as one hour of practice per week has been shown to increase memory and cognitive function. People with dementia and the onset of Alzheimer’s have also shown remarkable improvement with laughter therapy.
  2. Decreases feelings of isolation: It is common for seniors, both in their own homes and in facilities,  to experience feelings of isolation. Often they do not have much contact with friends or family members, and are in need of meaningful human contact. Laughter therapy is useful because laughing together fosters communication and can greatly improve cooperation and empathy between people of different ages and backgrounds. Laughing in a group means everyone can join in and develop a sense of belonging, giving seniors that much needed feeling of closeness and bonding.
  3. Reduces physical illness: Lack of oxygen in the cells is a common reason for frequent illness. Therapeutic laughing can help people to laugh comfortably for extended periods of time as a form of exercise, significantly increasing their supply of oxygen and circulation. This has been shown to have many health benefits for seniors, including decreasing stress related diseases, reducing chronic pain, and controlling blood pressure.
  4. Improves mobility: A sedentary lifestyle, illness and lack of physical exercise cause the muscles and limbs to stiffen, which leads to immobility, pain and aches. Physical fitness stemming from laughter is beneficial because when you laugh, all your body systems are affected in a positive manner. It is particularly important for seniors as well as people who are bedridden or in a wheelchair.
  5. Lessens stress and depression: Many factors put seniors at risk for depression, and frustration and a loss of physical and mental health is often the result. Laughter helps to reduce stress and generate a positive attitude, combatting feelings of depression. Laughing together in a group also helps to boost self-esteem and overcome feelings of insecurity.

If you can't join a formal laughter class or therapy session, there are ways to prompt laughter on your own. For example, watch a funny movie, go to a comedy club, play with a pet, or organize a game night with friends and family. With all of the noted health benefits of laughter, let your silly side shine, and find any excuse to strike up a good laugh. If you or a loved one are experiencing feelings of isolation, anxiety or difficulty while at home, consider the benefits of an in-home care provider to assist with safety and companionship at home. American In-Home Care refers qualified, screened and credentialed care providers that perform Companion Care, Personal Care, and Live-In Care. Contact us at 1-844-505-0004 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.

5 Tips For Making A Smooth Transition to Retirement

Aging, Lifestyle

The picture of retirement is changing. Today's older adults are more active and adept than ever, and generally aren't settling down and retiring at age 65 anymore. Not only are they wanting to remain in the workforce longer, but employers are also reluctant to lose them. According to the Society for Human Resources Management, 54 percent of companies say that they're concerned about losing the skills and talent of retiring workers.

Because of this, many companies are creating phased retirement plans that allow older employees to work fewer hours in their current position, or take on part time jobs in an effort to gradually move toward retirement. This allows the companies to retain the talent of the older employees while training newer, younger individuals, and the older adults get the satisfaction of remaining in a place where their skills and expertise are valued, while they prepare for retirement.

Even if the company doesn't specifically have a phased retirement plan, you can still follow a similar path by creating a gradual retirement plan on your own. Either way, following the below steps can help make your transition to retirement smoother and easier on you and your loved ones.

1. Get As Much Info As You Can

Talk to other people - both friends and people in you professional field - who are in similar situations to you or that have already retired in a similar way, and pick their brains. Then consider ways that you can bring your specific areas of expertise and particular projects into a scaled down job description. Map out what your new job will entail, and make sure it makes sense to you and your company.

2. Flexibility Is Crucial

There isn't one way to make a phased or gradual retirement work. Be open to creative ideas and don't be stuck on the idea that a part-time job is the only step. Consider working on a per-project basis or transitioning to freelance so that you are able to work from home and set your own hours.

3. Stay Current

It is important that you keep your skills and marketable assets current so that your employer is more likely to keep you on. This could mean attending classes or conferences outside of the workplace to stay up-to-date, or getting the latest certification or learning the newest software in your area.

4. Consider Your Wallet

It is pretty clear that your salary will be reduced when you scale down your work, but be sure to consider the other implications. Be aware of the changes that could happen to your retirement, medical and social security benefits when you are no longer a full time employee, as your coverage could be limited.

5. Find A Balance Between Work And Home

With phased out retirement, finding the right balance between holding on and letting go can sometimes be difficult. Even though it isn't as drastic as retiring all at once, it is still a big change and it is important that you start to develop skills and hobbies at home so that you feel fulfilled both at work and at home.

 

Healthy Aging Month: How To Make The Most Of It

All Posts, Health and Wellness

September is nationally recognized as Healthy Aging Month, which is an annual observation designed to focus on all of the positive aspects of growing older. The goal of the month is provide ideas and inspiration for older adults, age 50 and over to improve their overall health by contributing to their physical, mental, social and financial well being.

Take a moment to look back and reflect on all you have done, all of your exciting memories and adventures, and then think about what you would still like to accomplish, then write it down. Don't hold anything back! It could be something big like wanting to travel to that exotic country, or moving to the mountains to enjoy the fresh air every day. But it could also be something more simple, like maybe hiking a trail with your friends, or having a picnic somewhere special. After you have created your list, pick an item or two and use the month of September to plan and/or accomplish them! Then keep the momentum going and work toward one of your goals every month.

Doing something you have always wanted to do is one great way to improve your overall health and can contribute to your mental, physical and social health. We have also compiled some ideas that can serve as inspiration to improve different aspects of your health and help you age healthily.

1. Add brain foods

Certain foods are scientifically proven to be beneficial for your brain. Adding these foods to your diet could help lower the risk for Alzheimer's and dementia, as well as improving your day-to-day cognitive function and the overall health of your whole body!

2. Go on a walk every day 

Walking is good for the body and the soul. You can simultaneously get gentle exercise, which improves strength and stability and keeps joints healthy, while you enjoy the fresh air, nice scenery and calming effects of being outside. It doesn't have to be a long walk - just take a stroll around the neighborhood at sunset, or find a nearby park. And it's even more fun with a dog or friend for some added social interaction!

3. Don't act your age

What does a 60-year-old even act like? Well, it's up to you! Act how you want to feel - move with confidence, be active, get excited! Choose something you enjoyed when you were younger, and go do it! The more vibrant you act, the more vibrant you will feel.

4. Protect against financial scams

Financial fraud is the fastest growing form of elder abuse. You can protect yourself or your loved ones from financial elder abuse by becoming familiar with the most common scams and learning what to do if you suspect foul play. Keep your guard up so you don't get targeted!

5. Do good deeds

Helping others is one of the best and most rewarding ways to improve your health and happiness. Doing a good deed, or paying it forward can be as simple as smiling at someone, holding the door, or saying hello, and the great thing about these small deeds is that you have so many opportunities to do them throughout the day! You can also volunteer at a local charity, or donate money to a cause that is meaningful to you.

6. Get a physical

Staying on top of your health is an important part of aging healthily. Making an annual routine trip to the doctor can help you manage any ailments you might have, or detect any new conditions before they become a real problem. Use this month to set up your annual physical, and any other outstanding doctor (or dental) appointments.

7. Join a club

The good news is there is a club for pretty much everything. So pick a hobby, interest, or activity that you enjoy, and join a club! It could be a garden club, dinner club, golf club, book club, theatre club, you name it. These groups can help you meet new and interesting people while you participate in something that you enjoy. Go to, or host your first meeting this month!

8. Pick up a new hobby

You can never have to many hobbies, they are fun, engaging, and keep your mental and physical health strong. Think about something you have always had interest in, and give it a try. Learn how to play an instrument, take a cooking course, learn a new language. If you don't have a particular hobby you have always been curious to try, take a quiz or ask around your community and see what others are doing - there might be some you had never even thought about!

9. Reach out to friends

Making a point to reach out to loved ones or friends that you haven't spoken to in a while can be rewarding and fun. It's always nice to hear from people you care about, and you can make the process fun. Call, email or even write a letter. Writing letters is a great way to keep up your cognitive function and it's a fun, lost art. Also ask the person to get together for a cup of coffee or lunch, catching up in person will usually get the stories and laughs flowing!

10. Plan a trip

A vacation is a time that people look forward to, a time to relax, have fun, and improve your mental well being. So take this month to plan a trip. It could be somewhere in your city or state, or maybe you want to travel a little farther. No matter the destination, take your time to plan a special trip that you can thoroughly enjoy and make great memories. If you don't feel like traveling, plan a "staycation" and pamper yourself at home!

All of these ideas are meant to be an inspiration for living a healthy life so you can enjoy the positive aspects of growing older. Pick one to try, or try them all, and remember that focusing on healthy aging should be year round!

However, as you age, sometimes a little bit of help is necessary to live a healthy life. If you or someone you know is in need of home care, American In-Home Care provides quality screened and qualified care providers that can help you age in the comfort and independence of your own home. Call us anytime at 1-844-505-0004 to discuss what care options are right for you and your family.

 

Understanding Dementia: A Helpful Resource

All Posts, Alzheimer’s and Dementia,

Memory loss is scary. The thought of not being able to remember important information, life events, and loved ones can naturally cause anxiety and worry. Unfortunately, the time usually comes when we start asking ourselves if we, or someone we know, is experiencing symptoms of memory loss or dementia. In this situation, truly understanding dementia is important, and the best course of action is to arm yourself with knowledge and get as much practical advice as possible.

One of the best resources we have come across is the FreeDem Films. These short animated films answer important questions about dementia, such as "Am I Getting Dementia?" and "What's the Difference Between Alzheimer's and Dementia?" Not only do they answer important questions, they are also clear and easy to follow, making these videos a valuable resource for understanding dementia.

If you or your loved one are suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s and need professional care, American In-Home Care can help. We always refers qualified, credentialed and screened care providers that can assist you in the comfort and safety of your own home, and can even refer nurses that specialize in Alzheimer’s and dementia care. Contact us today at 1-844-505-0004 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss what care options are right for you and your family.

American In-Home Care, LLC completes acquisition of Advocate Home Care Services

News & Events

Company is now one of the largest independent personal care service providers in the State of Florida

September 9, 2015 – American In-Home Care, LLC (“AIHC”) has completed the acquisition of Advocate Home Care Services (“Advocate”), of Lauderhill, FL. This represents the fourth acquisition by AIHC since its inception in September 2013.  With the addition of Advocate, American In-Home Care, a Silverhawk Capital Partners (“Silverhawk”) portfolio company, is now one of the largest independent in-home care providers in Florida serving over 90% of those 65 and older in the state.

Advocate’s service areas are both complimentary and expansionary for AIHC, with the Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Lake Worth, and Naples offices adding to its market coverage in South and Southwest Florida. The Vero Beach, Tampa, and St. Petersburg offices serve new markets for the company. Like AIHC, Advocate provides caregiver referral and administrative support services for clients that prefer to continue living in the comfort and safety of their own home. The company helps clients accomplish this goal by referring comprehensively screened, credentialed, and insured independent caregivers who provide companion, homemaker and personal care services.

“As we continue to execute against our strategy of creating a major presence in the independent living and personal care services industry, we were looking for a company that served the right markets, with the right philosophies, and the right people. Advocate more than met that criteria”, said Doug Hollman CEO and President of AIHC. “We arepleased to now be able to take our service model into new marketslike Tampa Bay, and expand our coverage along the Treasure Coast to better serve clients, referral sources, and independent caregivers who value our approach that is represented by choice, affordability, and personalized service”,

American In-Home Care, LLC

AIHC is a Silverhawk Capital Partners portfolio company.  AIHC was formed in September 2013 to address the independent living and personal care services industry, which is growing rapidly as a result of an increase in the aging population and their desire to age in place. The company provides referral services to older adults and others needing assistance with the activities of daily living, through its registry of licensed, screened, and empathetic caregivers. AIHC helps its clients reach their goal of remaining in their homes while allowing them personal control, selection and authority over this decision. AIHC and its clients recognize the benefits of this consumer directed approach. The company’s internal processes ensure that its registered caregivers are credentialed, verified and rigorously screened.  This process includes a national background check, a review of current licensing requirements, and inspection of their liability insurance, to provide the company’s clients with control, choice and peace of mind when choosing their independent caregiver.

Learn more about American In-Home Care, LLC at www.whitsymsinhomecare.com

Reach American In-home Care, LLC at 844-505-0002

About Silverhawk Capital Partners

Silverhawk Captial Partners is an independent investment firm established in 2005 to invest in lower middle market transactions within the Growth Industrial, Energy/Natural Resources and Business Service sectors. Silverhawk typically invests between $10 million and $50 million of equity capital in growth oriented businesses with revenues ranging from $25 million to $250 million.  Silverhawk has offices in Greenwich, CT, Charlotte, NC and Overland Park, KS.

Learn more about Silverhawk at www.silverhawkcapitalpartners.com

Reach Silverhawk at info@silverhawkcp.com or call (203) 861-2905.