If a family member has asked you to move in with them, you were probably immediately met with mixed feelings. On one hand, you likely felt gratitude; happy that someone is willing to sacrifice for you and is worried about your care. But on the other hand, you probably felt a sense of looming regret that you’d have to give up your home and your independence. Living under one roof is an arrangement that does work for many intergenerational families, and for some it doesn’t. You decide if this is something that would work for you in your senior years, and during the process, make sure you ask these questions:

• What will my role be in paying for household expenses? Does it sound affordable and reasonable based on the living arrangements determined?

• What specific responsibilities will I have? Will I be expected to contribute to household chores or care for any of the grandchildren in the home? If so, how often and when?

• Will I be provided with my own space to maintain my independence? Will I have a room, or a bathroom that’s off limits to the rest of the family?

• What will become of my assets? How will we handle the sale of my home and finances I have in my bank accounts?

• Can I bring my pets to the home?

• Will changes be made to areas of the home to provide for my comfort and safety?

• Will I be a part of family decisions, such as vacations, travel, and hosting of events in the home? Or will the other family members make these decisions?

• Am I able to invite my friends to the home and entertain? What if I want to use the space without the grandchildren?

• What arrangements will be made if I need care assistance? Will someone in the home be able to help, or will we hire senior home care?

Via: Home Instead Senior Care

Home Instead Senior Care Dallas - a great assisted living alternative in Dallas for seniors and elders. Call us today for help at 972-239-3934.Myths About the Swine Flu and Vaccine

Hiring a senior caregiver for someone that’s important to you can be an extremely big responsibility. You want to make sure that your senior is in good hands every time that they’re with the caregiver and that means finding someone who will go above and beyond the call of duty. When you’re talking to prospective caregivers, ask them about their policies on procedures for the following areas, so you know that your loved one’s best interests will always be in the forefront:

1. Be aware of changes – seniors who are experiencing health changes, financial difficulty or other problems might begin to act differently. Often seniors who are experiencing problems might not be open about them due to embarrassment, but caregivers can speak with other family members if they notice anything unusual while spending time with their senior clients

2. Help address financial need – while it’s not a caregiver’s responsibility to pry into a senior’s finances, they can identify problems. If stacks of mail are piling up or collections calls are being received in the senior’s home, it’s possible bills aren’t getting paid. Again, a caregiver can approach this issue gently with the senior’s family, and suggest that a Power of Attorney be used if the issue appears to be that bad

3. Dispose of sensitive information – assist seniors by suggesting that they shred bills or other information that could compromise their safety

4. Know who is making healthcare decisions – caregivers should ensure that they have the contact information on hand for the family member or other individual for making these important decisions in case of a medical emergency

5. Suggest an advanced directive or living will – to help seniors secure their future wishes, suggest an advanced directive or living will so that their medical needs are fulfilled according to what they want

6. Determine how expenses will be paid – if the caregiver will be responsible for household purchases on behalf of the senior, it should be determined how this will be managed. Signed checks can be provided, seniors can open an expense account that the caregiver has access to, or if all expenses will be paid in cash provided

7. Be wary of strangers – caregivers should be wary of new friends that come into senior’s lives, especially if they are from a different generation. Seniors can become victims of scams because they are anxious to curb their loneliness with new social opportunities. With this in mind, caregivers should also work with seniors to investigate any charitable organizations or other causes seniors are thinking or donating to before a transaction is made

8. Provide a safe environment – in all circumstances, senior caregivers from a franchise should be responsible for identifying potential hazards in the household and ensuring that they are addressed to put their senior care recipient’s safety first.

Via: Keeping Seniors Safe

Home Instead Senior Care Dallas - a great assisted living alternative in Dallas for seniors and elders. Call us today for help at 972-239-3934.Myths About the Swine Flu and Vaccine

While there’s no guarantee that cancer won’t touch the life of someone you love or your own life, no matter what your age, the secrets to cancer prevention relate to diet, lifestyle and knowledge. Follow these simple tips for the prevention of cancer to reduce your chances of experiencing the life altering disease.

1. No Smoking – avoid cigarette smoke at all costs; both first and second hand smoke increase your risk of contracting many types of cancers that relate to cigarette smoking, and makes you more susceptible to cancers that are not caused by the unhealthy habit.

2. Be Aware of Affects of the Sun – Many seniors believe that after years of sun exposure, they no longer require protection from the sun. Proper sun protection at any age is important for cancer prevention. Children, older and younger adults should wear sunscreen during time spent in the sun, protective eyewear (UV sunglasses), and head coverings like hats. It’s also important that individuals remain aware of any changes to their skin, like moles or other marks, and discuss any changes to skin conditions with a doctor immediately.

3. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle & Weight – a healthy lifestyle for cancer prevention includes eating a well-balanced diet rich with fresh fruits and vegetables and exercising regularly. Fruits and vegetables which are high in antioxidants, like those green, red or orange in color can help regenerate damaged cells for cancer prevention. Smoked and cured meats which are high in fat also increase the risk of cancer and should be avoided. Since obesity greatly increases the risk of cancer, regular exercise which is appropriate for your age and physical abilities, especially if you’re an older adult; should be incorporated into your routine.

4. Limit Alcohol Intake – consumption of alcohol not only increases the risk of certain types of cancer, it contributes to overall poor health and obesity in adults. Alcohol intake should be kept to a minimum, since men who consume 2 or more alcoholic drinks a day are at a greater risk for cancer, as are women who have 1 or more alcoholic drinks per day.

5. Know Your Families History – Knowledge plays a major role in cancer prevention. Understanding your family history with cancer can help your doctor make decisions relating to testing and screening for cancer. Many types of cancer are genetic, so it’s important to understand your family risk so you can make informed healthcare decisions.

http://cancer.about.com/od/causes/tp/topreventcancer.htm
http://www.cancer.org/docroot/PED/ped_1.asp?sitearea=PED&level=1

Are you seeking home care for an aging relative in Dallas? Call Home Instead Senior Care in Dallas at 972-239-3934.

According to US Resolution 252, passed by the US Senate, February is officially designated National Prevention Month in the United States.  As one of the most devastating diseases, that impact the lives of approximately 550,000 Americans each year, including many older adults, the government clearly grasps the importance of promoting postive ways to enhance wellness and ultimately prevent cancer.

Sponsored by the American Institute of Cancer Research (AICR) the National Cancer Prevention Month resolution promotes making small lifestyle changes which can prevent cancer, in senior citizens and the rest of the population, by up to 70%.  Since diet and lifestyle play such a major role in cancer prevention, February is as good a time as any for people to understand what they can do to prevent the onset of or fatality from cancer and begin implementing exercise, smoking cessation, and well-balanced diets into their regular routines. 

The AICR recommends preparing daily meals that are 2/3 plant based foods, and 1/3 animal protein, since dietary fats will be reduced from your diet, which can help to maintain a healthy weight; a critical component in cancer prevention since 20% of all cancers relate to obesity.  Seniors should also engage in regular weekly physical exercise to help increase blood flow and control weight gain which can contribute to the onset of cancer, they should pick a routine that incorporates stretching, balance and strength training and that is suitable for their physical limitations.

National Cancer Prevention Month also aims to make people more aware of the screening techniques available that can lead to prevention, proper diagnosis and treatment of the various types of cancer.  During the month of February health institutions are encouraged to distribute information about cancer prevention to seniors and people of all ages and information is available on the AICR website regarding information sessions on cancer prevention.

Sources:
http://www.cancerwise.org/february_2004/display.cfm?id=B6EO5740-1F9C-4DC2-ADD57C9020
7F413D&color=blue&method=displayfull&color=blue
http://www.healthline.com/blogs/health-obsevances/2007/02/february-is-national-cancer-prevention.html

Are you seeking home care for an aging relative in Dallas? Call Home Instead Senior Care in Dallas at 972-239-3934.

Thirty-three percent of current seniors have accidents each year. The annual number of hip fractures alone is 350,000. But, Baby Boomers are healthier and more active than previous generations. More than 70 percent report good mental and physical health, but precisely because they are more active. Boomers have more accidents than previous generations. Biking, running, skiing and other activities send Boomers to the emergency room far more frequently than previous generations.
And despite the overall good health of their generation, 30 percent of Boomers are already suffering from debilitating health issues that are usually associated with old age, such as Alzheimer’s disease and arthritis.

Arthritis is the most common condition that affects seniors. Another emerging area of concern is obesity. In 2002, 30 percent of Boomers were reported as obese. That number is expected to grow to 42 percent by 2025. Obesity makes daily activities much more difficult and increases the likelihood of other health problems, such as diabetes and stroke.

Most Common Conditions Impacting Senior:

10% General Dementia
3% Parkinson’s Disease
12% Orthopedic Condition
12% Depression
12% Alzheimer’s Disease
30% Multiple Sclerosis
12% Arthiritis
23% Other

Are you seeking home care for an aging relative in Dallas? Call Home Instead Senior Care in Dallas at 972-239-3934.

Are you seeking home care for an aging relative in Dallas? Call Home Instead Senior Care in Dallas at 972-239-3934.

Today we are presenting some more information that came out of the largest study that was conducted on the state of senior caregiving in America.  These results just came out recently and if you would like a full copy of the report contact us to receive an electronic version.

The Importance of Home was another factor they looked at and the study found that an overwhelming majority (86 percent) of elderly want to be cared for at home for as long as possible. This is consistent with several other studies, including an AARP survey that found 89 percent of elderly would prefer in home care as opposed to assisted living or nursing homes.

The Home Instead survey also examined the views of family decision-makers about the desirability of their relatives continuing to age in place. The study found a strong correlation: 76 percent of decision-makers believe it is important for their loved one to be able to stay at home and to have in home care when the time comes that they need extra help.

So why are so many elderly people moving from their homes or being advised to move from their homes into Assisted Living Communities?  We would love to hear your thoughts on this question - please leave us a comment.

Source:  When the Age Wave Hits: The State of Senior Caregiving in America by Home Instead Senior Care, January 2009.

Are you seeking home care for an aging relative in Dallas? Call Home Instead Senior Care in Dallas at 972-239-3934.

Members of the Silver Haired Legislature are selfless individuals who are active in bettering the lives of seniors. In addition to the volunteer work that they do for the SHL, many also have a history of active members of their general community that don’t relate to their duties as representatives of the SHL. It should be no surprise that the committee volunteers appointed by registered voters of the SHL every 2 years take interest in activities that better the lives of people of all ages in their communities. Many are actively involved with religious organizations; sit on boards of community organizations; have a history working with consumer awareness businesses, like the Better Business Bureau; and had careers in fields like nursing and teaching.

While the members of the Silver Haired Legislature have certainly had a positive impact through their work within the general population, it is the elderly advocate work that they have done to improve the lives of older citizens that is most profound. Since the inception of the SHL in 1973 in 31 states, their government help for aging Americans and legislative involvement has resulted in addressing the following needs of the aging community:

Priority Bills Passed by the SHL in the 1990’s

• The senate passed a bill to provide low-income seniors with a pharmaceutical tax credit
• They made free health insurance counseling available to Medicare recipients
• State tax deductions for pensioners in Missouri were established
• Establishment of Department of Aging
• Funding for nursing home inspections
• Severe penalties for elder abuse
• Nursing home reform law

Top 10 Resolutions of the 12th Session of the SLH in Texas

• To establish a Legislative Committee to address issues of the aging population over the next 10-30 years
• To increase Medicaid funding
• To increase funding for public transportation systems in small urban and rural settings
• 5% increases in Cap Annual Property Valuations
• To develop support programs for grandparents caring for grandchildren
• To reenact state regulation of electric utilities
• To correct misuse of Eminent Domain power and not allow private property to be taken to benefit another private owner
• To increase the Personal Needs Allowance for nursing home residents on Medicaid
• To integrate more geriatric health awareness to students in the first 2 years in medical school
• To increase tax deductions for those volunteering to help senior citizens (i.e. transportation deductions for those delivering for Meals on Wheels)

Sources: http://www.txshl.org/docs/resolutions/12TH%20TSHL%20TOP%20TEN.pdf
http://www.nemoaaa.com/shlfacts.htm
http://www.txshl.org/

Are you seeking home care for an aging relative in Dallas? Call Home Instead Senior Care in Dallas at 972-239-3934.

Caring Today is a quarterly magazine that has been developed to educate readers about the trends in aging and what families like yours are doing to help loved ones age in place gracefully. Caring Today is often seen in physicians’ offices around the nation. Articles featured include: Managing Medication, Handling Finances and Legal Matters, Long-Term Care Planning, Arranging Respite Care, and Reducing Stress. Home Instead Senior Care is regularly featured in Caring Today as a reputable resource for respite care, home care, senior companion services, home helpers, and as a trusted information source for senior issues. If you cannot find a copy in your Doctor’s office, contact your local Home Instead Senior Care offce and share any questions or concerns you may have with us. Our mission is not just to be a provider of Home Care but a source of information to the communities that we serve.

Are you seeking home care for an aging relative in Dallas? Call Home Instead Senior Care in Dallas at 972-239-3934.

Another element of Home Instead Senior Care’s Heart of a CAREGiver campaign is to educate and inform listeners of well known radio programs about aging issues. Nationally Syndicated, John Tesh, of the John Tesh Radio Show, has had personal experience with Home Instead Senior Care and his own aging mother. John will be talking about his experience and his Selleca-Tesh Foundation whose mission is to “change the face of aging” frequently during his nightly broadcast. The Tesh show features “purpose-driven radio… with intelligence for your life”. He and his wife have made it their mission to bring joy, happiness and cognitive stimulation to the aging population through the power of music.

Likewise, another well known radio voice, Delilah endorses Home Instead Senior Care as well. Complimenting her mission to “help those who cannot help themselves,” Home Instead Senior Care is proud to serve aging parents, seniors, and families through respite care, home care, senior companion services, home helpers and elder care around the nation.

www.heartofacaregiver.com
www.delilah.com
www.tesh.com

Are you seeking home care for an aging relative in Dallas? Call Home Instead Senior Care in Dallas at 972-239-3934.

As the economy suffers and a number of jobs are lost daily, the need for senior CAREGivers continues to rise. What is a CAREGiver? Simply defined it is someone who gives assistance to another person who is no longer able to perform their critical tasks of personal or household care necessary for everyday survival. Anyone who helps someone maintain their independence. Of course a CAREGiver is much more than just this. A CAREGiver often becomes a companion, a best friend, a confidant, a support system and a client/family liaison. Finding the appropriate CAREGiver to match every need of their client can be a challenge but because so many people these days are turning to CAREGiving as a second career and to give back to their community the selection is much more broad and makes it easier for a nearly perfect match.

Of course not everybody is a quality CAREGiver. A quality CAREGiver is someone who is a professional and usually has a history of CAREGiving whether it be for a loved one or professionally but they must be someone who has compassion for those in need. CAREGivers who receive ongoing training and have a support system of people who listen and understand tend to be happier and have less burnout.

The economy may be bad but the opportunity for a great career as a CAREGiver is out there. The impact a CAREGiver can make on the life of a client is immense, but the client can also make a similar impact on the CAREGiver.