Tag Archive for: caregivers charlotte nc

Is Your Senior Loved One at Risk for Elder Abuse?

in

Helping seniors stay healthy and safe is the main goal of our home care professionals. For this reason, it’s essential that we discuss a difficult topic, elder abuse. The CDC estimates that around 500,000 older adults are abused or neglected every year in the U.S. and many other cases are unreported each year. As a family or friend of a senior receiving care, it’s important to be mindful of the risk factors.

Be aware of the following risk factors associated with elder abuse:


Dependency on others. Seniors are sometimes afraid to speak up about abuse because they may be reluctant to a new caregiver; fearing they will not meet their needs.

Decreased physical health and mobility. Seniors with certain diseases and disabilities may be at higher a risk of abuse because he/she may not be able to verbalize the abuse.

History of abuse. If someone has a history of abuse there is an increased risk for abuse in their later years. This is the case especially when a victim of abuse by the senior is now their primary caregiver.

Social isolation. Social isolation often occurs when a senior loses a spouse or lives at a distance from family and friends. Abusers often try to keep seniors isolated by refusing to apply for economic aid or services, resisting outside help, changing social and healthcare providers frequently to make it difficult for the senior to assess their health status, and controlling contact with family and friends.

Family caregiver stress or burnout. Overwhelmed caregivers may start to lash out at the senior in their care.

Make sure to call or visit as often as possible to also play an active role in their care. Comprehensive Home Care can also help as we understand the importance of a senior’s health and safety. Each member of our senior care team has passed a thorough background check, reference checks, and an in-depth personal interview to ensure they meet high standards. All of our caregivers are licensed certified nursing assistants (CNAs) in good standing in the state of North Carolina, so rest assured your loved one is in capable, experienced hands.

Contact us today to learn more about our home care services.

Now that you’re prepared for this threat, check out The Latest in Helping Elderly Parents Avoid Phone Scams.

Transitioning to Assisted Living

in

When your loved one transitions into an assisted living facility, using a home care provider, or even moving into your home they may experience challenges that arise within their first couple of days through their first year. It is normal for any senior to experience a challenge here or there especially since they are moving into a new environment.

Consider the following common challenges seniors face when transitioning to assisted living:


A loss of independence.

One of the biggest challenges is the feeling of a loss of independence. While this is not true, it is common for seniors who are new to the assisted living environment to feel as though they are giving up their life or that they have surrendered themselves.

To overcome this challenge, it is important for you to speak with your loved one and let them know that their life has not changed much other than where they live. They will still be able to do the things they love, make their own food, and live their own life. The biggest difference between an assisted living facility and home life is that your loved one will be receiving care when they need it.

Adjusting to their new life.

Another common challenge that the elderly face is adjusting to their new life. Your family member must understand that they live in a community now and they are not alone. It is common for your loved one to feel as though they are lonely even though they are not. Some need time to get used to the changes from having their meals cooked to living in a smaller area. It does take time, but they will be able to overcome it and adjust.

Understanding change in their bodies.

Lastly, the elderly are often faced with challenges when it comes to changes that happen in their body. Some experience outbursts and don’t want to accept the changes. This is normal and it is important to listen and reassure them that they are in the best place for this.

It is important for you to provide the support needed to help your family member get through this time. You need to make sure that your loved one’s needs can be met with ease. Comprehensive Home Care can provide guidance during this time. Contact us here or call us at 704.333.5214.

Check out these key questions to ask when deciding if your loved one should move in with you.