All posts by clearsem

Preventing Senior Phone Fraud

All Posts, Family Caregiver Tips

Has one of your elderly relatives been the victim of phone fraud? Do you feel like you could have done more to protect them?

Seniors can make easy targets for phone fraud. According to the Federal Trade Commission, studies show con artists are more likely to target senior citizens than other age groups because they believe seniors are more susceptible to scams. The FTC reports fraudulent telemarketers direct anywhere from 56 to 80% of their calls at seniors. This means the need for preventing senior phone fraud has become greater than ever.

Seniors are targeted for several reasons

  1. Seniors tend to be retired and at home more often, meaning they have more time to answer and talk on their phones.
  2. There is a prevailing idea that seniors grew up in a more polite time when it was considered rude to hang up, giving fraudulent callers time to pull their con.
  3. Seniors are often living alone or are lonely, making them willing to talk, even to strangers.

What you need to know about senior phone fraud

There are five basic techniques that fraudulent telemarketers can use:

  • Scarcity: A senior is announced as the Grand Prize Winner, but if he/she doesn’t accept the prize immediately (and pay that "handling charge") the runner-up will get the prize instead.
  • Hype: The telemarketer uses excitement about a senior winning the prize.
  • Authority: The telemarketer passes the phone to his "boss," so his target will know the offer is "legitimate."
  • Phantom Fixation: The prize is too good to pass up, and the targeted senior becomes fixated on it.
  • Reciprocity: The telemarketer explains that they don't receive their commission unless the senior accepts the prize and pays the handling fee. If the senior says that he or she doesn't have enough money to pay the fee, the con artist asks how much they can afford, and offers to pay the smaller difference, just because they are happy the senior has won the prize.

There are some techniques that you can practice with your loved ones to help them not fall victim to telephone fraud. Tape a list of responses on the wall or desk near their phone so your loved one will always have a polite but firm comeback to unwanted telemarketers. And remind them that the best way to get rid of someone you don't want to talk to, is to simply hang up.

Tips for avoiding senior phone fraud

  • Tip #1: Never give personal information, such as bank account or social security numbers, to anyone over the phone, unless you initiated the call and know you've reached the right agency.               Comeback: "I don't give out personal information over the phone. I'll contact the company directly."
  • Tip #2: Never believe it if the caller tells you to send money to cover the "handling charge" or to pay taxes.
    Comeback: "I shouldn't have to pay for something that's free."
  • Tip #3: Limited-time-offers shouldn't require you to make a decision on the spot.
    Comeback: "I'll think about it and call you back. What's your number?"
  • Tip #4: Be suspicious of anyone who tells you not to discuss the offer with someone else.
    Comeback:"I'll discuss it with my family and friends and get back to you."
  • Tip #5: If you don't understand all the verbal details, ask for it in writing.
    Comeback:"I can't make a decision until I receive written information."

Remember that the scammer will most likely keep trying to convince the intended victim, so it's best to hang up after delivering the comeback line.

Practice these comebacks with your loved one. Also, have your loved one tell telemarketers to take his or her name off their call list. If the telemarketers don't, they're breaking the law. Sign up for the National Do Not Call Registry. As a last resort, get your loved one an unlisted phone number.

If you feel more comfortable having someone with your loved one for companionship and safety, a professional caregiver can help observe phone calls, or even answer directly on their behalf. Care providers are also a good source of socialization, so that your loved one does not feel lonely. American In-Home Care always refers qualified and compassionate care providers that can perform a variety of services, including Companion Care, Personal Care, Live-In Care, and Respite Care. Contact us today at 1-844-505-0004 to schedule your free in-home consultation to discuss your care needs.

 

 

 

Managing Mean Dementia Behavior

All Posts, Alzheimer’s and Dementia

Do you have a loved one with dementia? Have they ever behaved meanly or aggressively towards you? People with dementia can sometimes behave aggressively, either physically or verbally, which can be obviously distressing for the person and their family and friends. A way to help manage mean dementia behavior is by understating the causes and what triggers it.

People with dementia have the same needs and desires for comfort, social interaction, mental stimulation, and being free from pain as everyone else. However people with dementia may be unable to recognize their needs, know how to meet them, or how to communicate their desires to others. This can cause them to become mean or aggressive. This aggressive behavior might be the person’s way of meeting a need, or a direct consequence of their needs being unfulfilled.

Understanding what is causing the person’s aggressive behavior can be the first step to finding a solution. There are three main causes of mean behavior in dementia sufferers, which are: biological, social and psychological.

Biological Factors

Biological factors that contribute to mean dementia behavior are pain, illness and physical discomfort. Poor eyesight and poor hearing can also lead to frustrating misunderstandings and misperceptions. The physical effects of dementia on the brain can also affect the person’s judgment and self-control, lowering their inhibitions or decreasing their awareness of what kind of behavior is appropriate.

Social Factors

Certain social factors, such as a lack of social contact, or loneliness, inactivity, and boredom can result in mean dementia behavior. Also aggressive behaviors could be the result of a person trying to hide their condition from others, and not knowing how to ask for help.

Psychological Factors

Psychological causes are a result of changes in the brain, and mean behavior can come from the person becoming frustrated from not being able to complete a task, or being ignored in decision making because there is the perception they can no longer do things for themselves. The person might feel threatened by what they think is a strange environment. They may think they are in the wrong place or that strangers are in their home. They may also have difficulty understanding and interpreting the world around them, and get angry when this prevents them from carrying out a task they believe needs completing. All of these factors, and physical changes in the brain can also result in clinical depression, which would only make communicating more difficult.

So how do I manage mean behavior

1. Calm down the situation

Do your best to remember that they truly don't mean the things that they are saying. Even though this can be difficult at times, recognizing this can lower your stress and tension, and help you be objective to calm down the situation.To help you calm the situation and comfort and reassure your loved one, you need to limit the distractions in the room. Turn off the TV or ask others to leave. If you stay calm, your loved one is more likely to calm down.

2. Try to understand the causes of the mean behavior.

Look for any pain or discomfort, or signs of overstimulation. Try to see if they are feeling disturbed by their surroundings or overwhelmed by a task. Look for the feelings behind the way they are acting as a way to identify the cause.

3. Keep track of possible triggers, and avoid them.

Whenever difficult behavior comes up, make a note of what happened, marking the time and date. Also think about what was going on just before the behavior started and write that down as a possible trigger. For example, if your notes show that your loved one gets angry and starts calling you names around 4pm on most days, it could be because they haven’t eaten since noon and they’re hungry. They may not realize it or don’t know how to ask for food. To test your theory, try giving them a snack around 3:30pm to see if that helps prevent the outbursts.

4. Check for a urinary tract infection.

This can put a lot of stress on an older adult’s immune system which can cause sudden, unexplained behaviour changes, such as: difficult behaviour, more agitation, or being less responsive than usual.

5. Put on their favorite music.

Listening to the favorite music of the person with dementia may help to reduce aggressive behavior. For example, if there is a certain time of day when the person tends to become aggressive, it may help to put on some music that you know they enjoy at that time. If a particular activity such as bathing can lead to the person behaving aggressively, put on some music before you begin.

6. Consider a professional care provider

Professional care providers are trained to interact with and help stimulate dementia sufferers with activities and socialization. Hiring a professional to provide respite care, or on a more permanent basis can help reduce stress and aid sleep, improving overall behavior and reducing the need to act out.

7. Lean on family, friends, and other help to get a break.

Always being around the same person can sometimes make you annoyed and short-tempered. Taking some time away can help both of you. Ask family and friends to take over for a few hours or hire a professional caregiver. Taking regular breaks gives you a chance to take care of yourself and gives you both a little time away from each other.

Alzheimer’s and dementia are terrible brain diseases that can cause mean and hurtful behavior. Take a deep breath, remind yourself that it’s not personal, address immediate discomfort or fear, and try to find the cause behind the behavior. Next, look for long-term solutions that will help you get the support and rest you need to keep your cool in tough situations like these. If you need additional information, or would like to schedule a free in-home consultation to discuss your family’s in-home care needs, contact us today at 1-844-505-0004. American In-Home Care refers qualified and compassionate care providers that can help with many services, including Companion Care, Personal Care, Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care.

 

Coping With Arthritis

All Posts, Chronic Disease Care

Having arthritis can often lead to a life built around pain and reduced mobility. Arthritis affects over 50 million adults in the US alone, and almost half of all adults age 65 or older, making it the nation’s number one cause of disability. This means that pain is part of daily life for millions of older Americans.

Yet coping with arthritis is possible, and there are many things that can be done to preserve joint function and mobility, and improve quality of life. Different types of pain management work for different people. Arming yourself with information is the first step along the road to pain control and living life with arthritis to the fullest. It requires determination and practice but by doing these things, many people discover that they can live a full life with arthritis.

Don’t let pain be in control

The amount of time you spend consciously thinking about pain will influence how much you feel it. When you focus on pain, you can end up experiencing it more acutely than if you were able to turn your thoughts away from it. Distract your mind by doing something you enjoy such as writing, reading a book, or working on a hobby.

Stay Active

Even though pain makes it feel like physical activity would agitate your symptoms, staying active is actually beneficial to coping with pain. Exercise strengthens the muscles around painful joints and supports them, as well as preserving joint range of motion. It can also help to relieve stiffness, improve flexibility and improve your overall sense of well-being. Added benefits of exercise are also improved quality of sleep and maintaining a healthy weight which relieves the added stress on joints.

Balance activity with rest

This is especially important when your condition is inflamed and your joints feel painful. Make sure you take some time to rest, and pace yourself throughout your day. If you have pain that lasts for 2 hours or more after completing a task, make note to do a little less next time.  Do not be embarrassed to ask for help when you need it. However, be aware that too much rest causes stiffness, so it is important to find a balance.

Eat a healthy diet

Maintaining a healthy weight is important when suffering from arthritis because it means you are not putting extra stress on your joints. Being overweight can in some cases lead to further joint pain and damage. Having a healthy diet helps you achieve a healthy weight, and consuming certain foods that have anti-inflammatory properties (omega-3 oils, spinach, and tuna), and are rich in antioxidants (prunes, walnuts, strawberries) can also help reduce and control inflammation.

Relaxation

Relaxation is always a good way to combat pain. When we are tense, our muscles compress our joints; as a result they become painful. Developing the ability to relax will help alleviate this. In addition, relaxation techniques also help you have a sense of control over your body, mind, and well-being, making it easier to control the pain.

Try picking a quiet place where you will have 10 minutes to yourself with no noise. Sit or lay in a comfortable position with your head supported and your eyes closed. Breath in and out slowly, feeling your stomach move in and out with each deep slow breath. Continue to do this, focusing on counting the length of each inhale and exhale. Try to think of words such as “calm” and “peace” as you focus on pleasant memories.

Improve sleep

Poor sleep habits can agitate and worsen arthritis pain and fatigue. Getting a good night’s sleep restores energy, improves your ability to manage pain and allows your joints to rest. If you have trouble sleeping you can aid yourself simply by making your bedroom dark, cool and quiet. Making sure your bed and pillow are supportive and avoiding stimulants such as caffeine, cigarettes or alcohol. Practicing relaxation techniques before bedtime can help, as also can establishing a regular routine; having a bath then some light reading before sleep.

Hot and Cold

Some people find that heat helps relieve pain, while others find cold to be better. You could try a warm bath or hot shower, heating pads applied to areas of pain, or an electric blanket to alleviate morning stiffness.

Cold can help reduce swelling and lessen muscle spasms, and is especially good for acute inflammation. Get a cold pack or ice and apply it to the affected area, wrapping a damp cloth around it first. For some people a combination of hot and cold treatments works the best, switching between the two. Experiment with both until you find a method that suits your symptoms and your pain.

For anyone living with arthritis, it is important to remember not to be afraid to ask for help. Take responsibility for yourself and ask for assistance when you need it. American In-Home Care refers qualified and compassionate care providers that can help with many services, including range of motion assistance, exercise, meal planning and preparation, and bathing and dressing. If you need additional information, or would like to schedule a free in-home consultation to discuss your family’s in-home care needs, contact us today at 1-844-505-0004.

 

Foods to Avoid For Weight Loss

All Posts, Health and Wellness

We have all heard that a healthy diet and exercise are good for us: they can help reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes as we age, and also keep us active and fit for longer. But there is also nothing more frustrating than trying to eat healthy, and always feeling hungry or wanting to snack.

There are certain foods to avoid for weight loss, because they can actually make us feel hungrier, and can cause a desire to snack, which is not good when we are trying to maintain a healthy weight.

1. Salt

Salt is one of the biggest culprits of overeating and appetite stimulation. Research suggests that salt acts like a mild opiate in the body, causing overeating and weight gain. Because it acts like an opiate, it can cause the brain to crave and withdrawal from salt, which causes us to fixate on wanting a salty snack. Salt also makes you feel thirsty, which can lead to people reaching for sugary sodas or fruit drinks to quench their thirst.

Alternative: Knowing that salt causes cravings and makes you want more, see if you can fix this problem by simply avoiding those salty snacks! Don't open the bag of salty chips or nuts, or don't even keep them in the house. If you have a salty meal, pair it with a protein to help cut the cravings, and drink water instead of a soda or juice.

2. Refined Sugar and Artificial Sweeteners

Refined sugars and artificial sweeteners such as fructose can wreak havoc on your body by causing inflammation and increased hunger. Why are sweet treats so bad for us? It's because when you eat artificial sugars and sweeteners, your brain's reward pathways are satisfied, meaning that you crave more sugar and don't feel full.

Alternative: Natural sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, agave, and dates are a good way to sweeten things using natural sweeteners so that our bodies recognize when we are full. However, these still aren't the most healthy option and should be eaten as a rare treat.

3. White Flour

Refined flour (white flour) is devoid of nutrients, so you have to eat more of it to feel full. Things made out of white flour also have a high glycemic index which means that they are quickly digested and converted to sugar in our bodies, releasing a huge rush all at once. Studies show it may create an increase in hunger, food intake, and enjoyment of sweet tastes.

Alternative: Try whole grains in your pastas and breads, and use almond or coconut flour as a substitute when baking. Whole grains have more fiber and nutrients and are more filling naturally. If you have to eat white flour, mix it with a protein, or some beans to promote fullness.

4. Alcohol

Alcohol is converted to sugar in our bodies, and alcoholic drinks are very high in calories, so why do you end up hungry after drinking them? One problem is that alcohol decreases your defenses. A study published in Health Psychology noted after drinking liquor, study participants lost their inhibitions, and ate more than they had planned.

Alternative: Try sparkling water or go for a wine spritzer to cut the alcohol content. If you do drink, make sure you don’t do it on an empty stomach, to reduce the chance you'll lose control and get "snack-happy"

5. MSG

A flavor-enhancer best known as a Chinese food additive, MSG is also found in other foods you’d never suspect such as chicken nuggets, processed meats, canned soups and more.

A study published in Obesity found that eating MSG may be associated with an increased risk of being overweight, independent of physical activity and total energy intake. Why? Another study suggests that MSG actually damages the brain's regulation of appetite.

Alternative: Ask at restaurants whether there is MSG in the food. Also, check ingredient labels on packaged foods. MSG may be listed as hydrolyzed protein, autolyzed yeast, glutamic acid and yeast extract, according to the FDA.

6. Processed Foods

Cakes, chips, pizza, chocolate. What do these have in common besides the fact that they are yummy? They often have a high glycemic load, which causes your blood sugar to spike and then crash. This crash makes people crave foods more intensely, especially high sugar and fat foods. Our brains also identify these foods highly in the pleasure center, meaning when we see these foods again, we are likely to crave them.

Alternative: Work on identifying foods that are less processed, but that you really like, such as mango with Greek yogurt. Then make sure you are eating regular meals, and allow yourself one or two snacks composed of these high-quality foods that you enjoy, so you don't feel deprived of tasty treats.

7. Juice

There is a lot of sugar in juice, so again, your blood sugar level goes way up and the crashes, leaving you hungrier than when you started.

Alternative: Eat the fruit whole so you get the nutrients and fiber, which are more filling.

Bottom Line

Overall, be aware of your cravings. Think before you eat. What are you in the mood for? Don’t just grab something. Are you in the mood for something hot or cold, crunchy or creamy? Don’t just stand in front of the fridge tasting things. Calories can really add up that way without you feeling like you had a satisfying meal.

If you need additional information, or would like to schedule a free in-home consultation to discuss your family's in-home care needs, contact us today at 1-844-505-0004. American In-Home Care refers qualified and compassionate care providers that can help with many services, including Companion Care, Personal Care, and Alzheimer's and Dementia Care.

_________________________________________________________________________________

Source: Levine, Beth "7 Foods That Make You Hungrier." Next Avenue. March 28, 2016.

 

How To Lose Weight As You Age

Uncategorized

Nearly one-third of the population in the United States is obese. This is a scary statistic, especially given the known health problems associated with being overweight, including Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and even some cancers.

Adults age 40 and over make up more than 40% of that statistic, and are at a higher risk for becoming overweight because of changes in the body as it ages. Hormones play a big role in the development of body fat, and unfortunately for both men and women, our hormones change naturally as we age, and can result in putting on extra un-wanted pounds that can lead to major health concerns.

Blame Your Hormones

Whether you're a man or a woman, your hormones are going to make it easier to gain weight, and harder to lose weight as you age. Women will experience changes in estrogen levels during menopause that will decrease their resting metabolic rate. This means that they will burn less calories while at rest, which can lead to an in crease in body fat. This also means that any weight put on during or after menopause will be more difficult to lose.

Because menopause is a drastic and rapid change in women's hormones, body fat content and metabolism are affected more dramatically than in men. However, men still experience a big shift in their hormone balance as they age, with a decrease in the production of testosterone. This change is more gradual and can happen over more than a decade, and it results in less muscle mass, and a decrease in resting metabolic rate and calorie consumption during exercise. This means that the same exercises men performed when they were younger now burn fewer calories.

It is harder to lose weight as you age, and it is even more difficult for women than men because men have more lean muscle than women, meaning men can shed pounds faster and easier than women can. This can be disheartening for women that are trying to lose weight with a male partner, but just because it is more difficult, doesn't mean it is impossible, and because of the benefits of maintaining a healthy weight as we age, it is important to persevere.

Solutions to Lose Weight As You Age

It is important to let go of the idea that you are inevitably going to be heavier when you're older. Even though hormonal changes will make it more of a challenge, you can maintain a good weight and live and healthier lifestyle if you implement a healthy lifestyle and diet.

So what can you do?

Plain and simple, you will have to amp-up your exercise routine, eat less, and pay attention to what you eat. If you don't already have an exercise plan in place, get started on one and gradually increase your training until you are doing 45 minutes of cardio 4 times per week, and some form of strength training 3 times per week. An exercise plan like this will help you lose pounds, and also increase metabolism and muscle mass.

To lose weight, you will also need to eat less, consuming less calories than you are burning each day. This means amping up your activity level and eating less at the same time. Also pay attention to what you are eating - if you fill up on lean proteins, fresh vegetables and fruits, and whole grains, you will feel full and won't need to consume as many calories. Avoid eating calorie-dense foods such as processed and fried foods, and sweets, which are also lacking in nutrients and bad for your overall health. Try to avoid unnecessary snacking, especially at night when your metabolism is slowed down. Instead of snacking, drink a glass of water or hot herbal tea to satisfy hunger and quench thirst.

The best course you can take is to pay more attention to your diet, and to be more responsible when it comes to avoiding extra calories throughout the day. However, it is also important to make regular trips to your doctor as you age. Doctors should be checking men for abnormally low testosterone levels, and both men and women should get tested for resistance, which can occur as we age, and can result in elevated blood sugar and added abdominal fat.

If you need additional information, or would like to schedule a free in-home consultation to discuss your family's in-home care needs, contact us today at 1-800-952-3881. Whitsyms In-Home Care refers qualified and compassionate care providers that can help with many services, including Companion Care, Personal Care, and Alzheimer's and Dementia Care.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Source: Melone, Linda. "The Best Ways to Lose Weight Over 50." Next Avenue. Mar 23, 16.

The Keys to Weight Loss Over 50

All Posts, Health and Wellness

Nearly one-third of the population in the United States is obese. This is a scary statistic, especially given the known health problems associated with being overweight, including Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and even some cancers.

Adults age 40 and over make up more than 40% of that statistic, and are at a higher risk for becoming overweight because of changes in the body as it ages. Hormones play a big role in the development of body fat, and unfortunately for both men and women, our hormones change naturally as we age, and can result in putting on extra un-wanted pounds that can lead to major health concerns.

Blame Your Hormones

Whether you're a man or a woman, your hormones are going to make it easier to gain weight, and harder to lose weight as you age. Women will experience changes in estrogen levels during menopause that will decrease their resting metabolic rate. This means that they will burn less calories while at rest, which can lead to an in crease in body fat. This also means that any weight put on during or after menopause will be more difficult to lose.

Because menopause is a drastic and rapid change in women's hormones, body fat content and metabolism are affected more dramatically than in men. However, men still experience a big shift in their hormone balance as they age, with a decrease in the production of testosterone. This change is more gradual and can happen over more than a decade, and it results in less muscle mass, and a decrease in resting metabolic rate and calorie consumption during exercise. This means that the same exercises men performed when they were younger now burn fewer calories.

Weight loss over 50 is more difficult for women than men because men have more lean muscle than women, meaning even though both sexes tend to gain weight after 50, men can shed pounds faster and easier than women can. This can be disheartening for women that are trying to lose weight with a male partner, but just because it is more difficult, doesn't mean it is impossible, and because of the benefits of maintaining a healthy weight as we age, it is important to persevere.

Solutions for Weight Loss Over 50

It is important to let go of the idea that you are inevitably going to be heavier when you're older. Even though hormonal changes will make it more of a challenge, you can maintain a good weight and live and healthier lifestyle if you implement a healthy lifestyle and diet.

So what can you do?

Plain and simple, you will have to amp-up your exercise routine, eat less, and pay attention to what you eat. If you don't already have an exercise plan in place, get started on one and gradually increase your training until you are doing 45 minutes of cardio 4 times per week, and some form of strength training 3 times per week. An exercise plan like this will help you lose pounds, and also increase metabolism and muscle mass.

To lose weight, you will also need to eat less, consuming less calories than you are burning each day. This means amping up your activity level and eating less at the same time. Also pay attention to what you are eating - if you fill up on lean proteins, fresh vegetables and fruits, and whole grains, you will feel full and won't need to consume as many calories. Avoid eating calorie-dense foods such as processed and fried foods, and sweets, which are also lacking in nutrients and bad for your overall health. Try to avoid unnecessary snacking, especially at night when your metabolism is slowed down. Instead of snacking, drink a glass of water or hot herbal tea to satisfy hunger and quench thirst.

The best course you can take is to pay more attention to your diet, and to be more responsible when it comes to avoiding extra calories throughout the day. However, it is also important to make regular trips to your doctor as you age. Doctors should be checking men for abnormally low testosterone levels, and both men and women should get tested for resistance, which can occur as we age, and can result in elevated blood sugar and added abdominal fat.

If you need additional information, or would like to schedule a free in-home consultation to discuss your family's in-home care needs, contact us today at 1-844-505-0004. American In-Home Care refers qualified and compassionate care providers that can help with many services, including Companion Care, Personal Care, and Alzheimer's and Dementia Care.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Source: Melone, Linda. "The Best Ways to Lose Weight Over 50." Next Avenue. Mar 23, 16.

Tips for Communicating With Dementia Sufferers

All Posts, Alzheimer’s and Dementia, Family Caregiver Tips

Can you imagine not being able to understand what your loved ones are saying to you, or even recognize who they are?

Dementia and Alzheimer's takes a terrible toll on the mind, and thus it can make communicating very difficult. But it is important to remember that communicating with dementia sufferers can be frustrating and upsetting for both people involved, so it should be approached with love and care. But it is most important to recognize that even though your loved one might have a hard time understanding or recognizing you, that does not mean that they should be ignored. In fact, quite the opposite. Most dementia sufferers crave warm human contact, a light conversation, and a friendly, understanding smile.

Below are a few simple tips for communicating with dementia sufferers:

  1. Realize the severity of the situation. Unfortunately for people diagnosed with dementia and Alzheimer's, it will only get worse. Dementia is a severe disease that gets worse with time, making it harder and harder to communicate and to understand. It's important to recognize this from the start so you don't give up or get overly frustrated when things get tough.
  2. Avoid distractions when you're talking. Creating an environment where there are no distractions is ideal for communicating with dementia sufferers. This allows your loved one to focus all of their mental energy on the conversation without being distracted by things like TVs, cellphones ringing, or excessive background noise.
  3.  Speak clearly and calmly. Use your natural voice when you are talking to your loved one, and be sure to annunciate your words. Use warm, calming tones, but avoid "babytalk" or other condescending voices.
  4. Use people's names. Avoid pronouns like "he" or "she" in conversations. Instead, always refer to whomever you are speaking about by their proper name, such as "Cindy" rather than "she." Also be sure to use your name when you greet your loved one. Rather then saying, "hi, it's me!" say, "hi, it's me Cindy!"
  5. Keep the conversation simple. Talk about one thing at a time, and try to avoid long, rambling conversations that have multiple threads. Keep the conversation as clear and concise as possible.
  6. Nonverbal communication is key. Maintain eye contact, and smile when you are talking to your loved one. This will help them understand what you are saying, and it is also reassuring. Nonverbal communication such as a smile or a warm, understanding face might be the only way to communicate once the disease has progressed into its later stages, so it is good to make sure your loved one is receptive to the cues you are using.
  7. Be an active listener. If your loved one is saying something that you don't understand, stop them and politely ask for clarity instead of continuing without understanding what they are saying.
  8. Don't argue. Your conversations won't get very far if you are trying to correct every inaccuracy or misstatement that your loved one says. Let minor mistakes go, realizing that it is part of the the disease, and that by correcting them always, you might actually be confusing them more.
  9. Be patient. Give your loved one time to process what you say, especially after you ask a question. There is no need to get frustrated if they don't respond right away. Recognize that your conversations will take longer and move at a slower pace.
  10. There will be ups and downs. It is important to realize that your loved one will have good days and bad days, despite the progression of their dementia or Alzheimer's. Be patient with them and be there for them, even if it is just a reassuring hand grab or a smile.

Dementia and Alzheimer's are very serious mental diseases that can make the role of family caregiver very difficult. American In-Home Care recognizes that Alzheimer’s and dementia affects each person differently, meaning there is no one way to provide care. That is why we will work with you and your loved one to determine what services are most important for their safety, mental health and physical well-being. As experts in senior care, we refer care providers that can improve the quality of life for both you and your loved one. Contact us today at 1-844-505-0004 to schedule your free, in-home consultation to discuss your care needs.

 

 

Tips to Build A Beneficial Doctor-Patient Relationship

Aging, Healthcare, Medical

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 Whitsyms today at 1-800-952-3881 for your free, in-home consultation. We will work with you to match the best care provider and determine the right care options for you and your family.

Are There Real Health Benefits of Laughter?

Aging, Lifestyle

"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 the health benefits of laughter 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. Whitsyms In-Home Care refers qualified, screened and credentialed care providers that perform Companion Care, Personal Care, and Live-In Care. Contact us at 1-800-952-3881 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.

What is a Living Will and Healthcare Power of Attorney?

All Posts, Long Term Care Options

We have all heard stories about people who, because of a terrible accident, injury, or disease, become unable to make healthcare decisions for themselves. This is a tragic scenario because when unable to make these delicate decisions, they are often passed off to unknowing relatives, doctors, or sometimes even judges, who have no idea what your important personal preferences might be.

The truth is, the inability to make these decisions could happen suddenly, as in the event of an accident, or gradually, like when someone develops Alzheimer's or dementia, or another age-related illness. And it can happen to anyone.

So whether young or old, it is best to be prepared with a living will and a healthcare power of attorney to make sure that your wishes are followed.

Types of Healthcare Directives

There are two types of healthcare directives: a living will, and a durable power of attorney for healthcare. Healthcare directives are documents that let you specify your wishes about your healthcare, in the event that you can't speak for yourself. Both of these documents are important, and it is wise to prepare both. In some states, these two documents are combined into a single form called an advance directive.

Living Will

A living will is not the same as a conventional will or living trust that are used to leave property at death. It is simply a written document that has your statement about the type of health care that you want (or don't want) if you can no longer speak for yourself.

You can use your living will to say as much, or as little as you want about your healthcare preferences. It is up to you to decide the kind of care you would want, and to decide what you want to say about it in your living will.

Healthcare Power of Attorney 

A durable power of attorney for healthcare is another important document regarding your healthcare preferences. In this document, you simply choose and appoint someone that you trust to act as your healthcare agent in the event that you are incapacitated.

This person will make necessary health decisions for you, and will ensure that the doctors and other healthcare providers are carrying out the type of care you wish to receive.

Who Can Make Healthcare Documents?

You must be a legal adult to make a valid document directing your health care. You must also be of sound mind --meaning you are able to understand what the document means, what it contains, and how it works.

Lifespan of Healthcare Documents

When do my healthcare directives take effect?

Your living will and healthcare power of attorney will go into affect when a doctor has determined that you no longer have the capacity to make your own decisions. This happens when:

  • you are unable to understand what healthcare options are available to you, and what the consequences of these options are
  • you are unable to communicate (written, verbally, or with gestures) your wishes for care

What this all means is that if you can't express your health care wishes for any reason, your documents will spring immediately into effect. However, if there is any question about your ability to understand your treatment choices, or to communicate clearly, your doctor will work with your self-appointed healthcare agent to decide if it is time for your healthcare directives to go into effect.

It is important to remember that you will always be able to choose your own medical care if you have the ability to do so. Your healthcare directives will never override your communicated wishes. And even when you are no longer capable of making your own decisions, your healthcare agent must always act in your best interests and try to follow any wishes you've expressed in your living will.

When do my healthcare directives end?

Your written healthcare wishes remain effective as long as you are alive, unless you personally revoke them, or a court steps in to revoke them. Here are some specifics:

  • You revoke your documents: you can change or cancel your documents at any time, just be sure that your doctors and your healthcare agent is aware of the changes or cancelation
  • You get a divorce: A divorce doesn't change the written directions of your living will, however if you named your spouse as your healthcare agent in your power of attorney of healthcare, their rights will be revoked in most states, and you need to name a new agent. Sometimes it is easier to create new written documents to reflect your new agent rather than change existing ones.
  • You pass away: For the most part, your healthcare directives are no longer necessary after you pass away. The only reason they would remain effective for a limited time would be so your healthcare agent could oversee the disposition of your body, which could include an autopsy or organ donation.
  • A court invalidates your document or revokes your agent's authority: Most of the time, healthcare directives are not a matter for the court. However, if someone believes that did not have the mental capacity to create a valid legal document, the matter could be brought before a judge to decide. Your documents could also be invalidated if you failed to meet your state's requirements, such as notarizing in front of a witness. If someone believes that your healthcare agent is not acting in your best interest, the matter will be brought to court and an investigation into their behavior will follow. If their authority is revoked, the power will go to the first alternate agent that you have listed in your document. If you have not listed any, or if your document is invalidated, a conservator or guardian will be appointed to make care decisions for you.

If you or an aging loved one have not created your healthcare directives, take some time to think about your wishes for healthcare, and find a lawyer who can help you put them down into your formal documents. It is always best to be prepared.

If you need additional information, or would like to schedule a free in-home consultation to discuss your family's in-home care needs, contact us today at 1-844-505-0004. American In-Home Care refers qualified and compassionate care providers that can help with many services, including Companion Care, Personal Care, and Alzheimer's and Dementia Care.

 

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Source: Irving, Shae "Living Wills and Power of Attorney for Healthcare: An Overview." Nolo.