Tag Archive for: in-home care

Social Distancing for the Elderly

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During the COVID-19 pandemic, we need to remember our elderly loved ones. Ensuring social distancing for the elderly is essential, but it is important to remember the impact this can have on them. Increased isolation and loss of routine can negatively impact their emotional and physical health.

Consider the following factors with social distancing for the elderly:

Getting food. Thankfully there are many options to receive food without having to go in public. Food delivery and curbside pick up services are good alternatives to going to a grocery store.

Keeping in contact. While it’s wise to keep your distance from loved ones, it’s also important to stay in contact. Utilize technology with video chats and phone calls.

Appointments/prescriptions. There are many options available to receive your prescription by mail or by drive-thrus also many appointments can be done virtually.

Exercising. Most gyms and exercise classes are closed, however, staying active and keeping a routine is important.  Check out virtual classes that can be done without supervision.

Being smart. If you have to be around a high-risk person remember to follow the CDC guidelines.

Comprehensive Home Care is taking every precaution to ensure the health and safety of your senior loved ones. Contact us today to see how our team can help during this pandemic.

Love to Your Elderly Family Member

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Valentine’s Day is the day we give love to the people who mean the most to us. This year remember to show love to your elderly family member. You can do this by simply reminding him/her just how much you appreciated them. Think of something he/she will truly appreciate; a meaningful gesture will definitely pick up their spirits.

Check out the following ideas on how to show love to your elderly family member:


Thoughtful gifts. Frame a picture of the family or tell them how much they mean to you in a card.

Quality time. Just spend time with them. Set aside a day to have meaningful conversations.

Listening. Ask about a happy memory such as their favorite Valentine’s Day.

A favor. Think of a favor that would help out the most such as cleaning their house or doing some yard work.

Personal gesture. Cook their favorite meal, rent their favorite movie, or take them to their favorite store.

Get active. Go with them for a walk in the park or go for a bike ride.

Family time. Bring the family to spend time together.

Comprehensive Home Care cares for our clients as if they were our own family. Providing care in the home is a very personal service that requires a personal touch. We care about the details, the little things that make each day and each activity special, and we’re honored to be part of our clients’ lives. Call us today at 704-333-5214 or contact us online to find out more about our senior care services.

Time to Hang Up the Car Keys

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As we age our ability to safely drive declines. As such, many factors need to be considered when our senior loved ones are hitting the road. If it’s time to hang up the car keys it’s important to approach the topic sensitively. He/she may feel a loss of freedom, so make sure to assess their condition and explain your concerns.

The factors to consider when it is time to hang up the car keys include:

If your loved one shows any of the following symptoms:

  • Impaired vision.
  • Hearing loss.
  • Side-effects from medication, such as drowsiness.
  • Delayed reaction time.
  • Loss of memory.
  • Inability to focus.
  • Decline in emotional and/or mental health.
  • Joint pain or discomfort that could slow braking.

Alternatives to a senior driving him/herself include:

Hiring a caregiver. Comprehensive Home Care gladly runs errands and transports our clients to and from appointments and events.

Taxi/ride-sharing service. Taxis and ride-sharing options are becoming more and more accessible for those who need an extra hand. Research the best option in your senior loved one’s area.

Public transportation. There are many options for public transportation designed for the elderly. Type the zip code in ElderCareLocator to find the local transportation programs.

Friends, family members, and neighbors. Have a discussion with friends and family members to see if they can provide transportation, even just for appointments.

Walking or bicycling. If your senior loved one’s health permits, walking or bicycling may be a great option for getting around as it provides exercise, saves money, and provides a sense of freedom.

Comprehensive Home Care is here to help! We provide transportation for our clients, so you can rest assured that he/she is safe and well taken care of. We can also provide advice on the best way to approach the topic with your loved one. Call us today at 704-333-5214 or contact us online to learn more.

Preparing Your Home for A Senior Loved One

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You’ve decided to have your elderly friend or family member move into your home so you can watch after them. Preparing your home for a senior loved one requires assessing the comfort, safety, and accessibility. Put yourself in their shoes. Think of how this change will affect him/her and what type of living space a person with their needs would require.

Consider the following when preparing your home for a senior loved one:


Consult your loved one’s physicians and care providers. People who know the specifics about their needs can shed light on changes that need to be made in the home. Do a walk through with a home care provider to ensure the home is adequately prepared.

Remove any falling hazards. Remove rugs, and clear the pathway to the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom.

Go shopping. Purchase items such as non-slip mats for the shower, motion-sensing lights for the hallways, and workout equipment they could benefit from.

Make a list of home improvements. Hire a professional if necessary to complete the list. Such home improvements can include grab bars in bathrooms and ramps for wheelchair access.

Get organized. Put a list of emergency contacts on the refrigerator, keep important documents such as medical documents in a filing cabinet, and keep a calendar up-to-date with doctors’ appointments, when medication needs refilling, etc.

Comprehensive Home Care can help provide the necessary advice and tips on how to prepare for your specific situation. We provide a free in-home consultation to learn about your senior loved one and will suggest a strategy of care and any additional changes to the home. Call us today at 704-333-5214 or contact us online to find out more about our senior care services.

Living with Multiple Sclerosis in the Summertime

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Summertime can be a difficult time for people living with Multiple Sclerosis. This is due to the fact that an increase in body temperatures causes MS symptoms to worsen. Such symptoms include weak legs, fatigue, impaired vision, and cognitive issues. However, certain preventative measures can be taken to keep cool and enjoy the summertime.

Tips for living with Multiple Sclerosis in the summertime include:

Stay hydrated. While this tip may seem essential for everyone during the summertime, it’s especially essential for those living with MS to drink plenty of water.

Dress cool. Wear light-colored, lightweight, and loose fitting clothes that will keep the body temperature from rising.

Avoid overexposure to sunlight. While avoiding the outdoors completely may be difficult, staying in the air conditioning or in the shade when the temperatures are too high is best.

Take a cool bath. If you feel overheated take a cool bath to help lower your body temperature and prevent your symptoms from worsening.

Take advantage of cooling products. Cooling vests, neck wraps, headbands, and wristbands are extremely useful. The MSAA Cooling Program offers these types of products.

Exercises. Replace outdoor exercises with indoor ones such as pool exercises. Or exercise outside in the morning and evening when the temperature is the lowest.

Comprehensive Home Care is here to help! For more information regarding Multiple Sclerosis, and to learn about the services we provide contact us here or by calling 704-333-5214.

After a Stroke

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Whether you have personally experienced a stroke or are helping a loved one recover, life after a stroke can be a very trying time. Depending on the severity, strokes can cause physical, mental, and even emotional damage. It’s important to learn how to recover properly as well as how to prevent another from happening.

Check out the following tips on what to do after a stroke:

Prevent another stroke. Prevent another stroke from happening by encouraging lifestyle changes such as losing weight, exercising, and lowering blood pressure.

Set up an emergency plan. The chances of having another stroke are high, so setting up an emergency plan is highly necessary. Post the emergency plan on the refrigerator with the emergency numbers so each visitor is equipped to help.

Utilize technology. Technology such as a Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) that allows a person to call for help by pressing a button is a great tool to use. Check out more ways technology can be beneficial here.

Learn new exercises/therapies. Depending on the severity, recovery techniques such as mobility training and speech therapy may be necessary.

Modify home. Certain modifications may need to be made in the home to improve safety, accessibility, and comfort.

Ask questions. Speak to a physician about what changes you can expect in your loved one and the best options for their recovery.

Stay patient. Recovery takes time; it’s important to stay patient and uplifting during this process.

If you or your loved one recently suffered from a stroke or are looking for preventative methods, Comprehensive Home Care is here to help. Call us at 704.333.5214 or contact us here.

Traveling with the Elderly

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The warm weather is here, which means family vacations are approaching. Just remember when you’re planning out the details of your next vacation don’t forget to factor in your senior loved ones. Traveling with the elderly requires careful planning and preparation. No matter the destination or method of transportation, their safety and comfort should be at the forefront of your mind.

If you’ll be traveling with the elderly keep the following in mind:

Consult with their physician. Before plans are solidified make sure they are allowed to travel. The doctor may also provide advice on the best practices for traveling with someone in their condition.

Follow their routines. Ensure they are eating, drinking, sleeping, and most importantly taking medication at the same time as usual. Set a reminder if necessary.

Travel light and use luggage with wheels. Lugging your own luggage through an airport or in a vehicle while also worrying about other people’s luggage can be very stressful.

Keep medication accessible. Make sure any medication that needs to be taken during the trip is where it can be reached.

Flight specific tips include:

Allow plenty of time to get through the airport. Arrive at least 2 hours prior to the flight.

Understand regulations for medications. Follow regulations when packing to avoid any holdups at security.

Take advantage of the assistance airports provide. Many airports offer special assistance such as the ability to expedite security and to receive assistance with luggage.

Think about where on the plane would be best to sit. Sitting closest to the exit for a quick entrance and exit or near the closest restroom may be the best options.

Nonstop flights decrease stress. Instead of worrying about making it to the next flight on time choose a nonstop flight.

Benefits of Spending Time Outside

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The weather is beautiful and the flowers are starting to bloom, nature is calling your name. No matter one’s age or the state their health everyone can benefit from spending time outside. So, take a walk, plant a garden, check out the local farmer’s market, or go for a bike ride and encourage your loved ones to do the same. In no time at all physical and mental health will get a huge boost.

Benefits from spending time outside include:


Improved mental health. Spending time in nature reduces levels of depression, anxiety, and improves overall mental health.

Improved memory. Studies have shown that spending time outside can help improve memory, specifically short-term memory.

Improved sleep. Being outdoors exerting energy and breathing in the fresh air leads to improved sleep patterns.

Vitamin D boost. Sunlight provides vitamin D which has many benefits. An improved immune system and improved bone, cardiovascular, and cognitive health are a few of the benefits. Older adults are at a higher risk of developing vitamin D deficiency, so encourage your senior loved one to soak up the sun.

Contact us here or call us at 704.333.5214 to see how we can help your loved one spend time outdoors to receive the wonderful benefits.

Post-Retirement Work

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Many senior adults are deciding to reenter the workforce post-retirement, and as such opportunities targeted toward these un-retirees are on the rise. The decision may be financially based or due to the desire to stay productive and active. Companies are learning the importance of utilizing these workers due to their experience and work ethic. Many companies even offer flexible benefits, such as the opportunity to work part-time, seasonal, or remotely.

See below for a list of positions for post-retirement:

Work for a former employer.  Some companies offer part-time work to formerly retired employees, as these former employees already have the experience necessary to succeed in the company.

Consultant. Retirees often choose to offer their expertise via consulting.

Tutor. A quick search online will bring up multiple opportunities to tutor and offer the training necessary.

Administrative assistant/virtual assistant. Companies are looking to delegate tasks and even offer the ability to work from home.

Pet sitter. Animal lovers can use this passion to make a little extra money by pet sitting for friends and family or even for an agency.

Hobby turned into a business. Fun hobbies such as photography and writing can be turned into an enjoyable, profit-making job.

Nonprofit work. Charities and non-profits can be a very rewarding avenue after retirement.

Cruise ship worker. Employment on a cruise ship offers the chance to travel, meet new people, and make money.

Elder Empowerment

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It’s essential to learn the best ways to promote elder empowerment and redefine stereotypes toward aging. Encouraging the older generation to live their lives to the fullest and affirming their strength can be difficult when also looking out for their well-being.

It’s important to remember most older adults have lived independently for years and have lived through difficult times. For this reason, taking away certain privileges and changing their routines can cause tension. Finding a balance between doing what’s right for him/her and also empowering them to live their lives the way they wish is important.

Check out the list below for ways to promote elder empowerment:

Decisions. The elderly should be involved in decision-making processes, specifically those that will directly impact his/her life.

Assistance. Remove the negative feelings toward asking for assistance. Receiving assistance reduces stress and opens up free time to focus on passions and hobbies.

Learn. Constant learning keeps the mind sharp and promotes overall brain health. Encourage your senior loved one to take online classes, learn a new skill, and play games that improve memory function.

Volunteer. Helping those in need reduces stress and improves the quality of life of both the volunteer and the people in need. Many cities have multiple types of elderly volunteer opportunities, so do research for the best fit.

Verbal affirmation. Words of affirmation can make all the difference. It’s essential to affirm the strength and worth the elderly.

Comprehensive Home Care gladly empowers the elderly in our care. Contact us here or call us at 704.333.5214 to see how we can provide assistance.

Energy Levels in the Elderly

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Low energy levels in the elderly are very common, and many people assume that there isn’t much we can really do much about. However, this is a common misconception. No matter your loved one’s age they can still have the vibrant feeling they felt in their youth. The first step is to understand the factors that may be negatively impacting their energy. Once you understand these factors, changes can be made to boost their energy.

See below the factors that affect energy levels in seniors:

Insomnia. Many factors contribute to the loss of sleep, such as electronic usage, medication side effects, or nutrition. Getting to the root of the problem will greatly improve your senior loved one’s health and happiness.

Nutrition. As mentioned above nutrition is a major factor in the ability to get enough sleep. Getting the right nutrients will boost energy, while eating junk food can cause fatigue and keep you up at night. Research the best foods for elderly or speak with a nutritionist. Foods such as sweet potatoes, eggs, and oatmeal are great energy boosters.

Exercise. Exercising their body and mind will have a major impact on health and energy levels. Finding exercises the senior will enjoy may take some time and research. Check out our blog post Elderly Exercise Ideas to Help Seniors Thrive for ideas.

Anxiety. Anxiety tends to increase with age and is a major cause of decreased energy. A senior loved one may have a hard time receiving help and may feel limited in what activities they can do. They may have anxiety about their personal illness, certain medication may also cause increase anxiety. Help them understand the importance of a calm mind and positivity on their overall health.

For more information and recommendations on boosting your loved one’s energy levels contact us here or call us at 704-333-5214. Our experienced caregivers are best suited to help you and your loved one.

Caregiving During the Holidays

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The holiday season is coming upon us. Now is the time to start prepping! The holiday season can be stressful and overwhelming; this is especially true for those who need extra care. Caregiving during the holidays can be tricky because you want to ensure your loved one is having an enjoyable time, but also want to make sure their safety is a priority. It is important to start planning early to make sure the holiday season goes smoothly.

Keep the following in mind when caregiving during the holidays:

Travel.

If at all possible keep travel to a minimum. Traveling can be exhausting and add unneeded stress to your loved one. Have family members come to you instead.

Meals.

Your loved one’s food options may be limited; however, this doesn’t mean their meals need to be bland. A great part of celebrating the holidays is the delicious assortment of food, so do research on special healthy meals they’ll enjoy.

Keep a routine.

Routines are essential for an aging loved one or those with disabilities, so make sure to keep mealtime and bedtime the same as usual. Prepare any visiting family members and explain the importance of the routine.

Accept help.

With family coming in for visits there will be more people who can help out. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance, holidays tend to cause stress and your stress levels will affect those around you.

Avoid being overly loud or hectic.

This type of environment can be too stressful for your loved one; specifically those with dementia can become overwhelmed or overstimulated by too much noise.

Dealing with depression/loneliness.

The holiday season may be difficult for your loved one emotionally. They may compare the current time to previous holidays or may feel limited on how they can help out. Make sure to keep things upbeat and light-hearted and give them projects they can work on such as stringing garlands of popcorn, creating photo albums, reading holiday stories to the young ones, etc.

Comprehensive Home Care is here to help. Don’t be afraid to reach out to see how we can help take the stress out of the holiday season. Call us at 704.333.5214 or contact us here.

Transitioning to Assisted Living

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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.

How Do I Know if My Loved One Might Benefit from Home Care?

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As time goes on, you may notice your loved one is not quite what they used to be. There are countless reasons why there may begin going through changes. These changes can seriously affect your loved one’s ability to live alone. In this case, they may truly benefit from home care.

Here are some things to consider when deciding if home care is the right move to make for your loved one:

When they are becoming more forgetful.

While forgetting something every now and then can be okay, when your loved one is constantly forgetting, it is a rise for concern. Even if it is small things like checking the mail, you may want to start paying more attention. When they are forgetting to throw out old food, forgetting appointments, and other similar things they should not continue living by themselves.

If they seem to not be taking care of themselves.

When a loved one seems to not be properly taking care of themselves, this is another rise for concern. This may mean that they are either struggling to do or just forgetting to do simple tasks.  By turning to a home care specialist you will have peace of mind.

If they can no longer drive safely.

When you start to notice their car getting more dents and scratches, it may be a sign that they are struggling behind the wheel. This is not only putting themselves at risk but other people as well.

When you are starting to get worried about your loved one’s well being have a conversation with them or their doctor and see what the cause could be. Comprehensive Home Care can also ensure they are getting the proper care from professionals who know what to do. Contact Comprehensive Home Care to get a free home assessment and learn more about the services we offer.

Check out Is It Just a Case of the Blues? Mental Illness in Seniors Is More Common Than You May Think to read about a condition that would benefit from the use of a home care specialist.