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20 Safety Tips for NJ Senior Citizens, Elderly

Sunday, November 15th, 2009

New Jersey Elderly Safety Tips

One’s entire house can be an accident waiting to happen, particularly for seniors who may have unsteady balance or less than perfect vision.  Here are some modifications that can be made to minimize accidents and some things to keep in mind:

OUTDOORS

• Paint porches with grit to prevent slips
• Railings need regular inspections for sturdiness on porches and steps

LIVING ROOMS

• Remove extension cords, throw rugs and other tripping hazards
• Use light sensitive night lights in unlit stairwells and hallways.
• Place light switches at doors to prevent walking in the dark.
• Install smoke alarms in every room and test the batteries regularly.

KITCHENS

• Use heating elements that shut off electric burners on the stove.
• Keep fire extinguishers handy.
• Only use sturdy step stools with handles and use poles for reaching.
• Keep vents clean of grease.

BATHROOMS

• Modify baths with tub cutaways.
• Install grab bars.
• Install higher toilets to assist in standing and sitting.
• Apply non-slip strips to bathtubs.
• Use shower seats with back and portable shower heads.
• Paint with contrasting colors.

CRIME PREVENTION

• Keep doors and windows locked. Use peep holes. Never open your door automatically.
• Notify neighbors and the police when going away on a trip.
• Never leave notes on your front door.
• Be suspicious of offers from unknown contractors to do home repairs. Only work with reputable businesses.

Posted by: Frank Esposito, Vice President of Expert Home Care.  New Jersey’s Expert Home Care provides professional and reliable home health care and companion care for NJ elderly, helping them with their daily living activities since 1984. Please call us toll free at 800-848-2336 when you have home care related questions or need assistance for a loved one. Get a Free Home Care Assessment (a $375 value!) when you mention this post.

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Posted in Elder Safety, Home Safety, New Jersey Help for Family Caregivers, Prevent Falls, Senior Living & Lifestyle, Senior tips | No Comments »

Discussing End of Life Care with Aging Parents

Sunday, September 20th, 2009

NJ Senior Care Planning

Talking to your elder parents about end of life care

No one looks forward to discussing end of life issues with aging parents, but this is something that needs to and should be done.

Having the conversation is necessary so that your senior’s preferences may be honored, if at all possible, and so that your contribution to the decision-making can be based on an understanding of those wishes.

The conversation should be ongoing, rather than just occurring one time, and hopefully each time the topic is revisited it will become more comfortable, as you and your elderly loved one become more used to discussing the range of future possibilities together.

Here are some tips to help you through the discussion:

How to begin a conversation about future wishes with your senior

One way to begin is by asking your senior what their biggest concerns are for the future. This topic may evoke thoughts on the past, regrets, or a life assessment. Listen uncritically, with empathy.  Having your senior share these thoughts with you can bring you closer.

Discuss your senior’s preferences regarding housing options

While most people prefer to remain in their current home, ask your senior what they would like to do if that were no longer possible. Sometimes this conversation will bring forth your senior’s expectations about moving in with one of their children, which can be helpful to know.

Ask your senior if they feel financially secure

It is important for you to have a record of your senior’s insurance policies, such as Medicare, Medigap, prescription coverage plan, and any long term care insurance.  If your senior doesn’t already have a will, durable power of attorney and health care proxy, now is a good time to see an elder care attorney so that they can have their wishes resolved as to asset distribution and care.

Discuss your senior’s feelings about their medical care and whether or not they are satisfied with their physicians

Does your senior have any concerns about their medical care? Do they have any concerns about their doctors? Do you need to help them find better ones? What are your senior’s wishes as to medical interventions and end-of-life care?

Discuss your senior’s wishes as to death, dying and funerals

Do your parents have any preferences as to funeral and burial? These conversations are difficult, but you need to resolve them sooner rather than later. Researching and selecting specific services isn’t morbid, and can help when the time comes.  Seniors to be assured their wishes will be followed even when their adult child is feeling sad and possibly overwhelmed when arranging a funeral.

Posted by: Frank Esposito, Vice President of Expert Home Care.  New Jersey’s Expert Home Care provides professional and reliable home health care and companion care for NJ elderly, helping them with their daily living activities since 1984. Please call us toll free at 800-848-2336 when you have home care related questions or need assistance for a loved one. Get a Free Home Care Assessment (a $375 value!) when you mention this post.

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Posted in End of Life, Home Health Care, Hospice Care, Long Term Care Planning, New Jersey Help for Family Caregivers, Senior Planning, Senior tips, Specialty Care | No Comments »

Respite Care – What Is it & Why Should You Use It?

Sunday, September 13th, 2009

NJ Respite Care

What Is Respite Care?

Respite care is substitute care given so that the regular caregiver can take a break from the stress of caregiving. The respite care can be for a week, a long weekend, a day or an hour, on a regular basis or just once. It can be for an ill or fragile adult or a special needs child.

Who Gives Respite Care?

Sometimes respite care is given by family or friends, who want to relieve the regular caregiver. Or, it can be provided by paid caregivers who work for a home care agency.

How Will the Caregivers Know What to Do?

You will need to give them a check list of things to do and emergency numbers. List everything you do and check the references of the respite caregivers. For all respite caregivers, make sure they are comfortable and able to provide you with the assistance you need and that the person being cared for understands the temporary transition.

How Will I Find Respite Caregivers?

You can look for a licensed home care agency, many of who offer respite care services. Depending on the length of the respite, some nursing homes and assisted living facilities may also provide temporary respite care.

Who Pays for Respite Care?

Some local governments help pay for respite care. Check with your local Council on Aging or Social Services Department. The federal government is addressing the problem and may offer assistance. Call the eldercare locator at 1-800-677-1116, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, to see if help is available where you live.

Why is Respite Care Necessary?

Caregivers are often at increased risk of depression and other health problems as a result of the stress that accompanies being a caregiver. Having respite care refreshes the caregiver and protects them from burning out or becoming ill.

What Else Can I Do to Avoid Burn Out?

Join a support group, get adequate sleep, eat nutritious meals, and exercise daily. Take advantage of offers of help. Providing constant care is a demanding job. It’s crucial for caregivers to take a break periodically and this need is a normal part of the life-cycle of care. Support groups can help with guilt and frustration or just help caregivers keep morale high.

If you are caring for a loved one, you need to take care of yourself so that you can continue to provide that care. Finding quality respite care is an excellent means to an end.

Posted by: Frank Esposito, Vice President of Expert Home Care.  New Jersey’s Expert Home Care provides professional and reliable home health care and companion care for NJ elderly, helping them with their daily living activities since 1984. Please call us toll free at 800-848-2336 when you have home care related questions or need assistance for a loved one. Get a Free Home Care Assessment (a $375 value!) when you mention this post.

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Posted in Caregiver Resources in NJ, Home Health Care, New Jersey Help for Family Caregivers, Senior Planning, Senior tips | No Comments »

Senior Citizens Bedroom Safety Checklist

Friday, August 21st, 2009

NJ Elder Safety

For seniors, the bedroom can become a place for accidents.  Here are some things to consider:

  • Lamps and light switches should be within reach of the bed. Lamps or switches located close to each bed will enable people getting up at night to see where they are going.
  • Night lights should be used. This is especially important if your elderly loved one makes frequent trips to the bathroom at night.
  • Ash trays, smoking materials, or other heat sources (heaters, hot plates, teapots, etc.) should be kept away from beds and bedding. Burns are a leading cause of accidental death among seniors. Smoking in bed is a major contributor to this problem. Among mattress and bedding fire-related deaths in a recent year, 42% were to persons 65 or older.  Remove sources of heat or flame from areas around beds.  Don’t smoke in bed.
  • Check for proper use of electric blanket. Tucking in electric blankets, or placing additional coverings on top of them can cause excessive heat buildup which can start a fire. Use electric blankets according to the manufacturer’s instructions.  Don’t allow anything on top of the blanket while it is in use. This includes other blankets or comforters, even pets sleeping on top of the blanket.  Don’t set electric blankets so high that they could burn someone who falls asleep while they are on.
  • A working flashlight should be kept close to the bed in case electrical power goes out.  Check the flashlight regularly to see if the batteries are still good.
  • The telephone should be close to your elderly loved one’s bed. In case of an emergency, it is important to be able to reach the telephone without getting out of bed.
  • Never go to sleep with a heating pad if it is turned on because it can cause serious burns even at relatively low settings.

With a little planning, you can prevent accidents that should never happen.

Posted by: Frank Esposito, Vice President of Expert Home Care.  New Jersey’s Expert Home Care provides professional and reliable home health care and companion care for NJ seniors, helping them with their daily living activities since 1984. Please call us toll free at 800-848-2336 when you have elder care related questions or need assistance for a loved one.

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Posted in Elder Safety, New Jersey Help for Family Caregivers, Senior Living & Lifestyle, Senior Planning, Senior tips | No Comments »

Senior Care Safety & Emergency Checklist

Wednesday, August 19th, 2009

NJ Senior Safety

Are you prepared to deal with any emergencies that may arise with your elderly loved one?

Below is a list that you, as a caregiver, should keep in an easy-to-reach place should an emergency occur.  The list should be filled out and kept on a refrigerator and/or nightstand.  In times of panic and confusion, you or your senior may forget the most basic information.  Timing is critical and seconds can make a difference.

Fill out this list, review it with your senior citizen and keep multiple copies:

Children’s or Next of Kin’s Full Names, Addresses and phone numbers:

Name__________________  Address ____________________  Phone Number_____________

Name__________________  Address ____________________  Phone Number_____________

Name__________________  Address ____________________  Phone Number_____________

Special Health Concerns:

Medications Taken_____________________________________

Pre-Existing Conditions________________________________

Emergency Contact Information:

Doctor’s Name______________Address_____________Phone Number______________

Nearest Hospital              Address____________ Phone Number______________

Insurance Carrier___________________________Account Number_________________

Police Station Phone Number___________________________

Additional Instructions:

_______________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________

Posted by: Frank Esposito, Vice President of Expert Home Care.  New Jersey’s Expert Home Care provides professional and reliable home health care and companion care for NJ seniors, helping them with their daily living activities since 1984. Please call us toll free at 800-848-2336 when you have elder care related questions or need assistance for a loved one.

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Posted in Caregiver Resources in NJ, Elder Safety, New Jersey Help for Family Caregivers, Senior Planning, Senior tips | No Comments »

Geriatric Depression: Important Information for New Jersey Seniors and Families

Monday, July 13th, 2009

NJ Senior Health: Elderly Depression

Studies show that a significant percentage of seniors experience mental disorders that are not a normal part of aging.  These include anxiety, depression, cognitive impairment, mood disorders and behavioral problems.

Yet, psychiatric illnesses in older adults have long tended to be minimized, sometimes with tragic consequences.  This is why the rate of suicide is higher than any other age group and twice the national average.

“Many elderly people don’t have a voice,” said Dr. Jack Dang, a psychiatrist who is board certified in geriatric psychiatry.  “They suffer in silence because they are unable to relate their problems to someone who understands.  Access to psychiatric care has long been a problem for them.  And most families and nursing homes don’t know how to care for them.”

The lack of knowledgeable experts constitutes a major part of the problem.  According to the American Medical Association, there are less than 2,600 board certified geriatric psychiatrists for 35 million seniors – or about one per 14,000 Americans 65 and older.   Families and nursing home personnel often fail to recognize mental or emotional illness in an elderly person, which can be confused with the symptoms of multiple medical problems.

Consider that older Americans account for only 7% of all inpatient mental health services, 6% of community-based mental health services and 9% of private psychiatric care – yet comprise 13% of the population.  In addition to a shortage of appropriate health specialists, experts cite barriers to access, a denial of problems among the elderly, and a lack of coordination between mental health and aging networks.

“The quiet, silent patient who is losing weight often isn’t noticed as depressed and can end up starving him or herself to death,” said Dr. Dang.  “The goal is to educate families and health providers that neither depression nor memory loss is a normal part of aging.”

According to Dr. Dang, 40% of older adults with medical problems also have signs of depression.  “This is a strong, resilient group of people,” he said, “who have lived active and productive lives through multiple economic downturns, wars and tragedy.  Now, they are dealing with major life changes – loss of spouse, friends, siblings, even children; of job and career; of the ability to walk and drive; of their very independence.

“Post-traumatic disorders also can occur, from as far back as 50, 60, 70 years ago, perhaps from the Holocaust, an episode in a war, or a personal tragedy,” said Dr. Dang.  “These are intrusive memories, flashbacks of painful memories from the past.”

New Jersey’s Expert Home Care provides professional and reliable care and assistance for NJ seniors, helping them with their daily living activities since 1984. Please call us when you need help at 800-848-2336.

Posted by: Frank Esposito, Vice President of Expert Home Care

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Aging Health Issues

Saturday, February 21st, 2009

New Jersey’s Expert Home Care for Elders and Seniors provides care for your aging loved ones since 1984. Please call us when your loved one needs help – 800-848-2336.

Doctors are faced with questions everyday regarding even the most common ailments. Many people who experience these symptoms write them off as minor and may not seek medical attention when it’s needed. Here we provide you the information you need to determine whether your symptoms may indicate a greater medical issue.

What could it mean when you’ve experienced unexpected weight loss?

• Diabetes (symptoms include weight loss, intense thirst and frequent urination)
• Depression (experiencing weight loss, apathy and insomnia)
• Stomach Ulcer (indicated by weight loss, severe and recurrent upper abdominal pain)

Why is your cough persisting even after you’ve recovered from a respiratory illness (i.e. the flu)?

• Pneumonia/lung inflammation (cough worsens as opposed to improving)

What might the sudden onset of an itchy rash mean?

• Anaphylactic shock; a severe allergic reaction to medication, food or bug bite (signs may include the appearance of hives, and swelling around the mouth or face). Emergency treatment is required!

When might your severe headaches be telling you?

• Tumor (symptoms are blurred/double vision, loss of peripheral vision, instability when standing or walking, nausea and/or vomiting)
• Aneurism/mild stroke (sensation described as “unlike anything you’ve ever felt before, with a sudden onset of symptoms)

When could your chest pain be more than indigestion?

• Heart attack (experiencing severe pain in center of chest, also felt in shoulders, arms or back, nausea and sweating and/or shortness of breath)
• Angina/ arteriosclerosis; hardening of the arteries (symptoms include dull heavy chest pain brought on by physical strain or extreme emotion which disappears with the reduction of physical and emotional stress)

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms or have concerns about any persistent medical issues, please contact your physician as soon as possible.

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Senior Retirement in New Jersey

Thursday, February 5th, 2009

New Jersey’s Expert Home Care for Elders and Seniors provides senior care, home care & live-in care for your aging loved ones since 1984. Please call us when your loved one needs help – 800-848-2336.

Americans are reversing what had been a nearly century-long decline in the participation of older people in the workforce.

For both workers and employers, the rising number of older workers is the result of choice and circumstance.

Workers, faced with shrinking medical and dental benefits and less generous retirement plans, find they don’t have the financial resources to support themselves in retirement, so a lot more of them are returning to work.

Companies, faced with a labor gap that will rise to 4.8 million workers within 10 years and 20 million within 20 years, are seeing older workers in a new light. Older workers represent a pool of talent companies need.

Conventional wisdom used to be that employees over 50 cost companies more in terms of medical problems and missed workdays. But that may not be the case, as studies show that costs associated with older workers are about the same as those of younger workers.

Workers over 50 make up for additional health costs by being more reliable and often more productive than younger workers. An AARP survey of human resource professionals showed that 77% said that older workers have a higher level of commitment than younger workers, and 68% said it cost less or the same to train older workers compared to younger workers.

Older workers also tend to have fewer or no dependent-related health- or child-care costs, and they require lower training and recruitment costs, according to Gail Jern, human resources manager for Westaff.

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Older Adults Feeling Young

Friday, January 30th, 2009

New Jersey’s Expert Home Care for Elders and Seniors provides senior care, home care & live-in care for your aging loved ones since 1984. Please call us when your loved one needs help – 800-848-2336.

A poll conducted by MetLife’s Mature Market Institute and Zogby International attempted to determine what age Americans believe is old.

If you’re under 30, you think age 61 marks the beginning of “old.”

If you’re between age 50 and 64, “old” doesn’t begin until age 71. No one 65 or older thinks 41 to 50 is old.

Men are almost three times more likely than women to say an age under 60 is old, and men are four times more likely than women to say that someone between 31 and 40 is old.

Republicans are more likely than Democrats or Independents to say that younger ages are old.

At Society of Certified Senior Advisors’ seminars, we ask people “how old do you feel?” Almost universally, people will subtract eight or ten years from their actual age. Put another way, “old” is all a matter of perspective!

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Remembering the Deceased

Monday, January 5th, 2009

New Jersey’s Expert Home Care for Elders and Seniors provides care for your aging loved ones since 1984. Please call us when your loved one needs help – 800-848-2336.

Q1 – Why is it important to remember those who have passed away?
A1 – After the death of a loved one, some feel like to cope, they should push aside the memories. Families need to honor the memories of those they’ve lost out of respect, and to aid the healing process.

Q2 – How can families honor those they have lost?
A2 – Families can create memorials, maintain rituals, and adopt causes that were important to the deceased. They can also make sure to carry on the legacy, by continuing on with their lives and chasing their dreams.

Q3 – What types of memorials can be used to remember seniors who have passed?
A3 – More typical memorials include photo collages, plaques, and flowers left at the resting place or other significant locations. Families and friends can also light candles, write a poem or story in their honor, or make a quilt.

Q4 – How can families maintain rituals?
A4 – Families should think about the things that their loved one liked to do and honor their memory by taking on the activities themselves. They can cook and enjoy a favorite meal as a family, visit a favorite location, or listen to music that the senior loved.

Q4 – What does it mean to adopt causes that were important to the decreased?
A4 – Think about which good causes, like charities or community organizations, were important to the person who has passed on. Make a donation or volunteer to help with these causes. Buy a gift for your loved one during special occasions and make a donation to a charity that was significant to them. You can also start a memorial trust or scholarship on their behalf, even making it out in their name.

http://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Remember-Those-Who-Have-Passed-Away&id=397777

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