Tag Archive for: Respite Care

Social Distancing for the Elderly

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

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

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.

Tips to Recognize the Signs of Elder Abuse

While elder abuse is something that we would never expect to occur, it’s a tragically common occurrence in the U.S. Elder abuse occurs in many forms, from physical, emotional, or neglect. Because elder abuse is often a silent problem, it’s essential for families and friends of seniors to be aware of the signs of elder abuse to protect their loved ones.

Check out some of the warning signs that may indicate elder abuse:


Physical Abuse

  • Signs of injury like broken bones, bruises, welts, or scars. Especially if they appear symmetrically, on two sides of the body, or on the wrists.
  • Drug overdoses or regularly missed medications.
  • Broken eyeglasses.
  • Caregivers refusing to allow the senior to be seen alone.

Emotional Abuse

  • Behavior that mimics dementia, such as rocking, or mumbling to oneself.
  • Controlling behavior from the caregiver such as yelling or threatening, humiliating or ridiculing, ignoring the senior, or isolating from friends and family.

Neglect

  • Physical signs, such as bed sores and unhealthy weight loss/gain or malnutrition.
  • Unsanitary living conditions, such as neglected hygiene and a messy living area.
  • Unsuitable clothing or covering for the weather.
  • Unsafe living conditions, such as no heat or running water, faulty electrical wiring or other fire hazards.
  • Desertion of the senior at a public place.

The early signs of elder abuse may be difficult to recognize and may also appear to be symptoms of a disease or from increased frailty. A caregiver who is abusing the senior may also explain signs of abuse away. To help prevent abuse, make a point to call and visit senior loved ones often and be on the lookout for any changes in the senior’s personality or behavior. Report immediately if you suspect your loved one is at risk.

Comprehensive Home Care’s respite care can help families keep senior loved ones safe, happy, and healthy. Contact us here or call us at 704-333-5214 for a professional assessment.

Check out Is Your Senior Loved One at Risk for Elder Abuse? for more tips on recognizing the signs.

Ask These Questions Before Hiring a Home Care Specialist

Hiring a home care specialist is useful when your loved one prefers to stay in a more active lifestyle while needing assistance with things around the home. There are a few guidelines you can follow to ensure that your loved one is cared for in the best way possible. These questions are a great way to find out which specialist is best for your family member.

Consider these questions before hiring a home care specialist:


 What specific experience and certification do you have in caring for the elderly?

This question is so important because it gives an overview of the person’s background and qualifications. The way they present their experience will show how they feel about the elderly care they provide. The qualifications should already be in place if you are considering any home care specialist. To ensure proper care and a nurturing environment, it is important to ensure that the home care specialist is more than just qualified. The specialist should also enjoy giving care to those who cannot care for themselves.

What references do you have in regards to specifically caring for elderly patients with illnesses such as dementia and Parkinson’s disease?

The references will provide a frame of time for the experience presented and also a backup for honest feedback.

How would you handle emergency situations during after-hours?

This gauges the specialist’s ability to handle situations that may occur during times you may not be readily available. It is important to have emergency protocols and to know that the home care specialist is comfortable with addressing issues and prepared with the necessary procedures and practices.

Comprehensive Home Care provides the necessary processes and background checks to find the right fit for your loved one. We specialize in caring for those who need assistance taking care of themselves. This includes the elderly, those who have an illness, disorder, or injury, pregnant women, and new mothers. Contact us here or call us at 704-333-5214 for a free in-home assessment and see how we can help your loved one.

Read Tips to Start the Care Provider Search for more advice.

Transitioning to Assisted Living

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.

When Your Loved One Requires Dementia Home Care Support

Caring for a loved one with dementia can be very hard. As the disease progresses it can lead to burnout for the family caregiver. At some point, every family caregiver has to admit that they need outside help from a dementia home care professional.

Signs that your family member’s dementia requires outside help from a dementia home care professional:


Your health is suffering.

If you have started to lose weight, not eating right, or are sick more often it may be time to call a dementia home care professional. There is no shame in admitting that you need some help. The later stages of dementia are hard and if your health is already suffering you need reach out for help. A home care specialist can help you be a better caregiver as well. 

You are angry.

Irritation and anger may occur when caring for your loved one. It is common for you to get angry that there is no cure for dementia that your loved one is suffering. However, try not to turn that anger and frustration back on your loved ones. Make sure that you hire someone to help you before it comes to that point.

Take a long walk when you feel that you are getting frustrated and angry. It is also helpful to talk it out with another family member and get a fresh perspective and be able to deal with your loved one better. It is best to employ outside help when you start to feel this way about the person that you love with this awful disease.

You are exhausted.

Taking care of your loved one may be making you feel worn down. You might find yourself dreading going to take care of them. 

Be aware of these signs that you need extra help for your loved one with dementia. It’s best to be safe and hire professionals in senior care Charlotte families fully trust like Comprehensive Home Care. Contact us here or call us at 704-333-5214 to see how we can be of assistance. 

Check out Signs Your Loved One’s Dementia is Worsening to prepare.

Signs Your Loved One Needs Home Care Immediately for Dementia

Are you learning for the first time that your loved one has dementia? This can instantly send fear into your life. Is your loved one going to be okay? Are they going to struggle from day to day? Knowing when to provide your loved ones with help can be hard to do. You ultimately want to ensure your loved one is safe, but at the same time, you want to give them the freedom they desire. With the help of Comprehensive Home Care, you can give your loved one the best of both worlds.

The following are signs your loved one needs home care immediately for dementia:


Dementia home care is often advisable when these signs begin to occur or become consistent.

  • Your loved one forgets important tasks, such as feeding him or herself, showering, or going to medical appointments. This is very important when the loved one is already using reminders and tools to ensure they are completing necessary tasks and are still having trouble doing so.
  • Your loved one is unable to communicate effectively. In this type of situation, he or she will be unable to discuss their needs or ensure they can get emergency medical care if it becomes necessary. You want to be sure your loved one always has the ability to discuss needs.
  • You find yourself unable to do all of the tasks necessary. If you are the dementia patient or your loved one is and you are helping out, it may be time to get additional help and support when the workload just becomes too much to handle. Reaching out for help is never a bad thing.
  • Individuals who need ongoing support and care should have access to home care. This includes hygiene needs, medications, physical therapy, and day to day tasks such as cleaning up, cooking meals, and making appointments.
  • Your loved one has other medical needs that may be important to monitor. Sometimes this may be related to taking medications, getting therapy, or even taking care of wounds. If he or she cannot do this, it is essential to ensure someone else can.

Dementia home care doesn’t have to be something you put off. You can often customize the service to meet your unique needs. Over time, these needs are likely to change, and that’s okay. You’ll be able to get the level of care desired and needed as time goes on.

Don’t put off talking with professionals about your needs for dementia or Alzheimer’s care services. Instead, work closely with a team of professionals, like those at Comprehensive Home Care, to ensure you or your loved one has access to the type and level of home care necessary. Home care gives you the ability to maintain your quality of life and independent lifestyle without having to risk health and well being in the process. Contact us here or call us at 704.333.5214.

Read Warning Signs of Dementia to learn what to watch for.

Warning Signs of Dementia

If you are noticing new symptoms in your loved one it’s important to know what the cause could be. For example, knowing the warning signs of dementia in your loved one is extremely important so you can catch the disease early and start getting them treatment.

Below are some of the most common signs of dementia:

Memory loss

Everyone forgets things occasionally. However, one of the most common signs of dementia is a significant memory loss. This includes forgetting information just learned, forgetting important dates, and increasingly needing to have notes on hand to remember information.

Struggling to complete tasks

Another indication has to do with the tasks people manage on a daily basis. Those who have difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work, or even during leisure activities. This may include getting to locations, managing finances, or playing a game.

Problem-solving

Another clear indication has to do with problem-solving skills. Many people begin to develop complications related to tracking information, concentrating, or keeping track of payments. They may struggle with these tasks even if they have been performed previously.

Time and place confusion

Over time, those with dementia will begin to struggle with issues related to time and place. For example, they may lose track of dates or be unable to remember what time it is, lose blocks of time, forget how they got somewhere, or when they have an appointment.

Speaking or writing difficulties

Often,  those with dementia will pull out of social activities. This may be due to their difficulty in speaking and carrying on in conversation and just give up. They may repeat themselves several times, writing becomes difficult to do, they may forget what something is called, or they may struggle to remember a word for something that is common or that they use each day.

If your loved one has some of these or other warning signs of dementia, it’s time to reach out for help. Getting help from Comprehensive Home Care can be one of the most reassuring steps you can take for your loved one and for yourself. Contact us by clicking here or calling 704-333-5214.

Check out What to Do If You Think Your Loved One Has Alzheimer’s to learn more.

What to Do If You Think Your Loved One Has Alzheimer’s

Alzheimer’s is a disease that few people ever feel comfortable talking about.  It’s an emotional thing to see your loved one slowly lose their grasp on their memory and surroundings.  You may feel helpless, powerless, confused.  You may not be sure where to look for answers, or what to do.  But, don’t worry you’re not alone in this.

Here are some suggestions that may help if you think your loved one has Alzheimer’s:


Take some time to figure it out

A major disease like Alzheimer’s can be terrifying to face, but don’t give up.  Talk to a doctor, and do your research.  The more you know, the more you are prepared to help.  If you do confirm that yes, it is Alzheimer’s, then take a few minutes, or a day if you need, to come to grips with it.  There’s a lot ahead of you, so make sure you’re mentally and emotionally prepared for it.

Weigh your options and responsibilities

Caring for someone with Alzheimer’s is a major commitment.  It will require you to invest a lot of time, money, and energy into seeing for the needs of your loved one.  It will be a large emotional strain.  If you feel like you can handle it, that you can fully invest in the needs of your loved one, then you need to start making plans.  If not, then you need to find another option for care.  In either case, you don’t have to rely only on your own strength and resources.

Look for help

Help is out there. Doctors can offer some medications and suggestions on specific care procedures.  Seek out family and friends to form a support network.  Also, there are many alternatives for care if you feel that you can’t do it by yourself.  Nursing homes can offer around-the-clock care but can be confusing and frightening for someone with Alzheimer’s. An efficient and comfortable option is home care. Alzheimer’s care Charlotte trained specialists can come to your loved one’s home to provide caring, competent, and constant support.  That way, your loved one can receive the treatment and care they need from the comfort and familiarity of their own home.

There is an emotional and difficult time ahead.  Remember that you don’t have to go through it alone. Comprehensive Home Care can help you and your loved one through this tough time. Contact us here or call us at 704.333.5214.

Check out The Potential Alzheimer’s Cause We May Have Been Missing to read about the latest research.

Dementia

According to statistics, there are over 46 million people in the world suffering from dementia. And, the risks significantly increase when a person reaches 60 years of age. It’s important to know the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options in order to be prepared.

Symptoms and diagnosis of dementia


Different people have different symptoms or a combination of symptoms – difficulties speaking, thinking, lack of attention, moodiness, among others. It is important to identify changes in at least two independent areas, like attention and memory, to diagnose dementia.

The most evident sign of this disease is memory loss. In some diseases related to dementia, memory loss doesn’t have to be present (frontotemporal). Memory loss is also not something that is “exclusive” in older people. The most common cause of pathological forgetfulness is the diseases that occur due to deterioration of brain cells.

Care


A person with dementia usually requires 24 hours a day supervision, which may be impossible to be provided by family members. For this reason, home care has become a quite popular choice. Since the patients don’t have to leave their home in order to get professional help, the quality of life of the patient and their family will improve.

Patients and family members must receive thorough and understandable information about the symptoms of the disease according to its stages, the kind of preventive measures they can take, and what they can expect in the later stages.

The expert Dementia and Alzheimer’s care providers at Comprehensive Home Care, are here to help you and your loved one. Call us at 704.333.5214 to learn how we can assist.

Check out Signs Your Loved One Needs Home Care Immediately for Dementia to learn when to look for help.

How to Recognize the Signs of Dementia

As people age, the body starts to experience the signs of aging. Dementia is one of the many conditions you need to look out for in your aging loved one. Luckily there are certain signs of dementia you can look out for. These sings will be the first indicator that something is wrong. So, if you notice any of these symptoms in your loved one feel free to reach out to us to see how we can help.

A few of the signs of dementia include:


Memory loss

This is the most common symptom that falls under the dementia umbrella term. The issue with this is that it doesn’t happen all at once, and everyone has memory lapses from time to time no matter their age. So at first, it may be difficult to see when you or someone you know is experiencing true memory loss due to dementia. The real problem is when the memory loss worsens. Over time it will escalate and become more noticeable. When this sign is noticed, a visit to the doctor is required immediately. They will be able to help you figure out exactly what the underlying cause is, and if there is any way to stop or slow the memory loss.

Communication problems

Another common sign of dementia is communication problems. Word disassociation is very common amongst people who have dementia. In fact, it is often one of the first signs that something could be wrong. That being said, it can also be misinterpreted as everyone has the problem from time to time. Just like with memory loss, it is when the problem becomes frequent that you should start to think something is wrong. It is important to seek help as soon as you realize that the communication problems are a serious problem. There are several dementia-like symptoms that can be treated if caught early.

There are a few other signs, but these are the two most common. You might also notice the loss of the ability to focus or the ability to reason. No matter the cause or the sign, once noticed, it is important that you seek help. Comprehensive Home Care, experts in dementia care, can help you and your loved one. You don’t need to go through this alone, contact us here or call us at 704.333.5214.

Check out Activities for Your Loved One with Dementia to better be prepared if he/she is diagnosed.

Activities for Your Loved One with Dementia

It’s important to engage a loved one with dementia in activities that foster proper brain functioning and boost memory capabilities. Games, puzzles, and other fun activities are known to provide impeccable results and also improve their overall health. As each person has their own unique requirements, finding the right activity demands specialized assisted services. For instance, those with memory loss require help to remember significant events such as birthdays, anniversaries, and names of family members.

Top activities for a loved one with dementia include:

  •  Crossword puzzles or word search games help to maintain their language and vocabulary.
  • Jigsaw puzzle games help keep their brains active and help develop memory retention skills.
  • Scrapbooking can help their memory by keeping an account of important history, events, and names of family members.
  • Cooking can be a very beneficial activity for those with dementia. Baking cookies or helping to prepare their favorite recipe can make them feel useful, and also keeps them busy.
  • Listening to music and asking them to give the title of the song and the artist is a perfect strategy to remember information while lifting their spirits.
  • Taking a short walk can be very beneficial. Exercise is key to their overall health.
  • Writing letters for family and friends encourages them to maintain their writing skills.
  • Reading aloud from a favorite book allows them to listen and improve on their reading and verbal skills.
  • Painting with watercolors is also a great activity that allows the use of creativity.

Comprehensive Home Care can help you decide what activity is best for your loved one. Contact us here or call us at 704.333.5214.

Check out Tips on Speaking to a Loved One with Dementia to further learn best practices.