Tag Archive for: Union County home care

Is it Just a Case of the Blues?

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It is common to deal with sleep problems, fatigue, and/or loss of appetite in later years and often they’re written off as causes of aging. Yet for around 8 million adults over age 65, these symptoms could be suggestive of mental illness.

Mental illness in seniors usually goes unnoticed for a variety of reasons. A small percentage of adults age 65 and over who potentially have a mental illness actually receive treatment. There’s a stigma that comes with admitting to and searching for help for mental and emotional concerns. For some individuals, the assumption is that the symptoms of mental illness and aging go together so the signs are dismissed. In other cases, mental illness signs mirror medication side effects. 

Watch for any of the following types of behaviors in a loved one that may suggest a mental illness:

  • Anxiousness
  • Personality or mood changes
  • Changes in the desire for formerly enjoyed activities
  • Sleeping too much or too little
  • Alterations in eating patterns
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Memory -loss
  • Depression

If any of these signs are present it’s important to seek medical help. Talk to a primary care physician who can recommend the best medication and/or therapeutic options to consider.

Comprehensive Home Care can also help by escorting the senior to medical appointments and counseling sessions, picking up prescriptions and providing reminders. We can also serve as a caring companion to share in conversations and pick up on any changes that could indicate the necessity for further assistance. Contact Comprehensive Home Care, top providers of the highest quality companion care Charlotte has to offer, by calling us at 704-333-5214 or use our contact form to find out more.

Read about how another condition, insomnia, affects the elderly.

Tips to Recognize the Signs of Elder Abuse

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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.

Is Your Senior Loved One at Risk for Elder Abuse?

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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.

The Latest in Phone Scams Targeted at the Elderly

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Phone scams targeted at the elderly are nothing new. An alarming $36 billion are lost each year to financial scams. Con artists are always doing their best to create new scams to swindle money. The elderly, specifically, are constant targets of phone scams. It’s essential to stay up-to-date on the latest scams to protect our senior loved ones.

Check out the latest in phone scams targeted at the elderly:


The latest senior scam is difficult to detect until it’s too late. The company calling itself Utility Savings Expert claims to cut utility, phone, cable, and other bills in half. The scammers request account information from the bill. Then they pay off the balance in full, with the understanding that the senior will reimburse half of the cost by wire transfer only – no checks or bank cards accepted. After the victim’s funds have already been received, the organization reverses the charge to the phone or utility company, making the senior liable once more for the full amount, as well as the additional fifty percent.

How do you protect your older family members from falling prey to believable scams? First, wire transfers as payment is a red flag to avoid. Make sure your loved one never takes part in dealing with an unfamiliar business. Advise them to screen calls and hang up when someone asks for personal or financial information. 

Comprehensive Home Care is the home care provider North Carolina families can trust. Our companionship care help alleviates loneliness and reduces the chance of a scam. Call us at 704-333-5214 or contact us online for more information.

Now that you are informed on the latest phone scam, check out Tips on Recognizing the Signs of Elder Abuse to prevent another risk your senior loved one’s face.

Tips on Speaking to a Loved One with Dementia

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It’s very important to understand ways to effectively speak to a loved one who is suffering from dementia. Speaking effectively includes knowing how to address questions and provide comfort. 

The Alzheimer’s Association addresses a term called “loving deception”, allowing someone with dementia to maintain misconceptions in order to reduce anxiety and agitation. Conversely, others believe complete honesty and transparency is the best way to show support.

Our tips on speaking to a loved one with dementia include:

  •  Answer the question, then shift the topic to something more soothing.
  • Acknowledge and be sensitive to the feelings they’re experiencing.
  • Be patient if the questions are repeated.
  • Provide comfort if the answers upset them.
  • Do a web search with your loved one for the answer if it’s not known. For assistance, check out our resources page here.

Check out the Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care Services page to learn more about the services we provide. For more communication recommendations for your loved one contact the care professionals at Comprehensive Home Care. Call us at 704-333-5214 to speak with one of our dementia care experts or contact us online.

Check out the blog post Dementia to learn more about the symptoms, diagnosis, and care options.

Caring for Older Parents? Ask These Questions Before They Move In

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Probably the most admirable decision an adult can make is to open up their house to an older parent. Our parents took care of us, so it seems obvious to return the favor if they need a safe place to live. However, there are a number of things to consider when caring for older parents. 

Check out these key questions to ask when caring for older parents and deciding where they should live:


 

Is there sufficient space?

For example, consider how making room for the parent can lead to a change in another family member’s accommodations.

Is the home safe and efficient for the elderly’s needs?

Walk through your home and try to see it through the viewpoint of your parent. Are pathways clear between the senior’s bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, etc.? Should you install grab bars, a ramp, or other home care equipment?

Will someone be home each day?

Isolation and the dangers of being left alone will still be a problem if you and your spouse work outside the home.

Is everyone completely agreeable with the plan?

While you may be thoroughly convinced of your senior parent’s new living arrangements, feelings of reluctance, or resentment on the part a family member can create stress.

Are you prepared to handle increasing care needs?

While they may just need a little help currently, disease progression and the normal frailties associated with aging will change the amount of care needed. Think about the potential difficulties.

Is your parent okay with this decision?

Giving up status as “head of the household” is extremely challenging for some seniors. It takes careful planning to help your parent maintain self-esteem, autonomy, and a sense of control.

If you’re feeling uncertain about your ability to look after your loved one, consider the addition of a home care provider, such as a Comprehensive Home Care specialist. Our knowledgeable caregivers partner with families to ensure your loved one stays safe and can thrive inside their homes. Whether the care involves a few hours each week of companionship to promote socialization, personal care assistance for safe bathing and dressing, help with household chores and meal preparation, or round-the-clock, live-in care. We provide a free in-home consultation to learn about your loved one and suggest a strategy of care to handle all concerns. Call us today at 704-333-5214 or contact us online to find out more about our care services.

Check out Planning a Family Meeting to Discuss Home Care on tips to discuss the change with your family.

Tips to Avoid Common Parkinson’s Complications

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Many seniors with Parkinson’s disease receive the largest part of their care at home from loved ones. Comprehensive Home Care understands the unique concerns of those who care for seniors with Parkinson’s and want you to know you’re not alone! We can provide respite care to help you and your loved one during this difficult time.

It’s helpful to keep these Parkinson’s tips in mind:


Nutrition: A healthy diet helps reduce cell loss in a person with Parkinson’s disease. Consuming antioxidants, found in green tea, blueberries, broccoli, spinach, beans, and certain types of nuts, can fight against oxidative stress. 

Chewing and Swallowing: Those with Parkinson’s disease may have difficulty chewing and swallowing. So, each person caring for a loved one with Parkinson’s should learn the Heimlich maneuver to be prepared.

Preventing Falls: It’s also common to have trouble with balance, so walking may be difficult. It’s crucial to assess the home surroundings and make modifications to reduce the risk of falls. Installing items like customized toilet seats and grab bars where appropriate.

Anxiety and Depression: Reducing the risk for depression and anxiety is a crucial factor in the battle against Parkinson’s disease. Keep a close eye for signs of depression, and make sure he/she sees a doctor as soon as possible if signs are noticed.

Medications: Parkinson’s treatments may have a number of side effects, so be sure the doctor informs you of anticipated ones. Some types of medication may cause hallucinations or nightmares, for example.

We invite you to explore Comprehensive Home Care’s services to discover how respite care can lead to a better quality of life for both your loved one and the family members who are providing care. By partnering with our professional home care team to assist with some of the more routine aspects of caregiving, family members have the opportunity to spend more quality time together. Contact us at 704-333-5214 to learn more. 

Check out The 5 Stages of Parkinson’s Disease and How Home Care Can Help for more advice.

The 5 Stages of Parkinson’s Disease and How Home Care Can Help

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Parkinson’s disease is more prevalent than MS, muscular dystrophy, and ALS combined. 600,000 Americans are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease each year, seven to ten million people worldwide have already been diagnosed. There are five main stages of Parkinson’s, though each case is different.

Learn the symptoms of the five stages of Parkinson’s disease:


1st Stage: The first stage is early-stage Parkinson’s where mild symptoms occur and may be noticeable to your loved ones.

  • Symptoms are bothersome but not disabling.
  • Typically symptoms occur on one side of the body.
  • Tremors or uncontrollable shaking may occur in one limb.
  • Facial, posture, and/or balance may also change.

2nd Stage: In the second stage of Parkinson’s, the person begins to display an inability to complete standard physical tasks.

  • Symptoms cause minimal disability.
  • Symptoms occur on both sides of the body.
  • Equilibrium and posture changes, as well.

3rd Stage: The third stage is moderate Parkinson’s disease and a higher degree of disability becomes apparent.

  • Moderate dysfunction occurs.
  • Movements become slowed.
  • Balance decreases so standing becomes more difficult.

4th Stage: The fourth stage is indicative of advanced Parkinson’s.

  • Severe symptoms cause an inability to complete daily tasks so it may be difficult for them to live alone.
  • Movements become rigidity or sluggish in this stage.
  • Tremors may begin to lessen or disappear altogether for unknown reasons.

5th Stage: The fifth and final stage usually takes over physical movements.

  • Symptoms cause a decline in vitality in both body and mind.
  • Changes in equilibrium and strength occur so walking and standing become difficult.

Our skilled caregivers are fully trained and can help those with Parkinson’s disease to experience a better quality of life, right in the comfort of their home. Comprehensive Home Care can help with daily personal care, transportation to doctors appointments, running errands, light housework, or meal preparation. Our companionship can brighten their day. Our home care is customized to each person’s needs and preferences. Call us any time at 704-333-5214 to learn more. 

Check out How to Know If Your Loved One Is Suffering From Parkinson’s to learn more.

Senior Fitness Tips

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Participating in an ongoing fitness plan is challenging at any age. All of us have made excuses for not exercising and aging makes it even more difficult to commit to a fitness plan. Our home care experts want to help you understand the factors that go into building a senior fitness plan.

Consider the following factors involved in senior fitness:


Self-confidence. It’s natural for older adults to become overwhelmed with the idea of achieving fitness goals. Have them start slowly with easier exercises and then progress gradually. Continue to provide ongoing support throughout the program.

Attitude. Attitude is so important when it comes to staying physically fit. If approached negatively it will be so much harder to stick to a fitness program. Choose activities that will be enjoyable and that they will look forward to.

Pain. They should avoid overdoing it and pushing their body to discomfort or pain.

Disabilities. Older adults with physical or cognitive impairments can and should stay active within their ability level. Ask their doctor for a referral to a personal trainer or physical therapist who can create a specialized fitness program.

Fear of Injury/Balance Problems. Utilize a variety of different assistive products to improve safety.

Financial Issues. Exercising doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. Walking and other simple activities can be effective with little to no cost.

Illness or Fatigue. Workouts should be tailored to match their energy level and the intensity can be increased over time.

The key to ongoing success with a fitness program is to make sure the senior is comfortable and feels safe with the plan. If any pain is felt in muscles or bones following an exercise the intensity can be decreased. Make sure to check with their doctor if the pain or discomfort continues and/or intensifies. Comprehensive Home Care will work with your loved one’s doctor to develop a safe fitness plan to help build strength, independence, and quality of life. Contact us at 704-333-5214 for more senior fitness tips and to learn about our home care services.

Check out Exercises for the Elderly to find the best exercises for your loved one.

Exercises for the Elderly

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As we age, exercise becomes more essential. It’s vital to find an exercise program that works for your aging loved ones. Exercises for the elderly include aerobics, resistance exercises, flexibility exercises, and more. Always check first with your loved one’s primary physician to receive recommendations and approval for an elderly exercise program.

Consider the following exercises for the elderly:


Aerobics. There are many aerobics options for seniors including water aerobics and dance cardio. If full-body movements aren’t an option, there are exercises that can be done while seated to help build cardio strength.

Resistance Exercises. Exercises with resistance weights, like elastic bands, can help build strength. The bands come in a variety of tensile strength levels. Even a day per week of strength training can help reduce the risk of injury.

Flexibility Exercises. Stretching is great for improving flexibility and freedom of movement. Taking a yoga class at a local senior or recreation center can be a great way to socialize while building flexibility.

Dementia Exercises. In the early stages of dementia, there are a variety of exercise options. The same exercise can be modified and continued as the stages progress. Repetition is often comforting to seniors with dementia. Activities such as walking and riding a stationary bike daily can be helpful for both the physical and mental state.

The following suggestions can ensure that he/she will look forward to the program:

  • Engage in the exercise program with your loved one. It’s more fun to exercise with a buddy.
  • Hire a trusted caregiver to engage in the elderly exercise program with your loved one.
  • Turn on his/her favorite, upbeat music while exercising.
  • Set aside dedicated time each day for exercise, and make sure to keep it a priority.
  • Offer incentives or rewards for attaining milestones for motivation.

Comprehensive Home Care can recommend ideas to help your loved one increase activity levels. There’s nothing we love more than knowing the seniors in our care are healthy and enjoying life to the fullest! Contact us here or call us at 704-333-521to set up an elderly exercise program to improve life for your loved one!

Now that you have the information necessary to plan the best fitness routine. Check out Benefits of Laughter in Senior’s Health.

Elderly Hoarding

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Do you have a loved one who struggles with elderly hoarding? Is this situation becoming increasingly difficult to manage? Are you concerned?

Pathological or compulsive hoarding, officially known as disposophobia, is much more than just collecting or living with clutter. It’s the excessive gathering of objects, regardless of whether these objects have any value or use. The idea of giving away or throwing away any of the items, even trash, results in great stress.

Elderly hoarding causes several problems. Too many objects in a senior’s living space can cause problems with hygiene – both in the home itself and with personal hygiene if cleaning facilities are blocked. Extreme clutter can lead to social isolation, due to the person’s embarrassment about the state of the home and his or her inability to clean up sufficiently to go out. The clutter can also be a serious safety hazard. Clutter can result in falls, destroy home foundations, and block exits in the event of an emergency.

Helping someone who struggles with elderly hoarding can be difficult. Those who hoard place an extreme amount of value on their possessions. Clearing anything away can be painful.

If you have a loved one who struggles with elderly hoarding, the tips below may help:


Try not to judge the person. It may be difficult, but if your senior loved one doesn’t feel judged, he or she may be more likely to work with you. Avoid statements such as “What a mess!” or “How can you possibly live like this?”

Use upbeat language. If you see any improvements at all, no matter how slight, such as a path from one room to another that is wider than it was before, congratulate them on trying to make things safer. If you notice a trash bag with trash to go out, let your loved one know that this is wonderful progress. Whenever there is something to praise, do so: “I can imagine how hard it was to fill that trash bag. I’m so happy you were able to do that.” You can also point out the nice things in the home, such as a beautiful painting, or an unusual decoration.

Never argue. Seniors who hoard have their reasons and arguing usually results in them shutting down the conversation. You don’t have to agree with what the person says, but arguing may result in them becoming defensive, pushing further away from a solution. If an argument is ensuing, it may be time to take a walk around the block or call it a day.

Be understanding. Some things are just too important for your loved one to part with. When cleaning out a home, it’s important to remember that not everything has to go. We all have certain items that are dear to us. Recognize and acknowledge this.

Comprehensive Home Care’s home care experts have seen what hoarding can do and our experienced caregivers know how to help. As the top-rated home care agency in the Charlotte area, we can provide in-home care services, including friendly companionship to help seniors feel accepted and socially involved. Contact us here or call us at 704-333-5214 for a professional assessment to learn how we can help your senior loved one.

Check out 4 Situations When Home Care is Beneficial to learn more.

Signs that Your Loved One May Need Senior Home Care

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“I do NOT want to move to a nursing home!” This is an often-heard sentiment expressed by many seniors, even when they’re beginning to experience some difficulty managing at home on their own. And who can blame them? Home is where older adults feel most comfortable and safe. They know where everything is and they can enjoy their own individual routine and they may have friends and family who live close by, who enhance their quality of life. But, if you have concerns about your senior loved one’s ability to remain living safely at home, it may be time to assess the best possible solution, senior home care.

Consider the following questions to determine if your loved one could benefit from senior home care:

Weight Loss

  • Has your senior loved one lost weight unintentionally over the past several months?
  • Are they able to pick up groceries and prepare meals?
  • Do they prepare meals safely, remembering to turn off the oven or stove?
  • Do they complain about how food tastes?
  • Are they drinking sufficient amounts of water and other fluids during the day to prevent dehydration, especially during the hot summer months?

Personal Hygiene

  • Is your senior loved one adequately maintaining their hygiene?
  • Can they take care of laundry, bathing, grooming, and toileting needs sufficiently?

Medications

  • Does your senior loved one take medications?
  • Do they take them exactly as prescribed?
  • Can they read the labels and understand what each medicine is for?
  • Are they physically able to swallow pills, or otherwise use them as they are intended (i.e. creams, drops, etc.)?

Safety

  • Is the home free of clutter, which could be a tripping or falling hazard?
  • Could your loved one call for help if they were to fall?
  • Are there grab bars in the shower/bath, and are banisters and handrails on stairways fastened securely?
  • Is there sufficient lighting to allow them to safely get up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom or kitchen?
  • Do you notice any cuts, bruises, scrapes, or burns that could have been caused by a fall or other unexplained circumstance?
  • Is the kitchen clean enough to safely prepare food?
  • Is your loved one taking multiple medications from multiple doctors and/or does they use multiple pharmacies?

Emotional, Psychological and Cognitive

  • Does your loved one seem depressed or anxious?
  • Are they staying social as much as possible, whether in person or through the Internet or by phone?
  • If he/she is religious, are they continuing to attend services or programs available?
  • Are they still enjoying hobbies that interested them before?
  • Are they forgetful? Unusually loud or agitated?
  • Are their finances in order?

The list of questions may seem overwhelming at first, but our senior home care services team can help. Our professional home care team can evaluate your senior loved one’s situation and provide suggestions and solutions, giving you and your loved one peace of mind. Our trained home care staff can provide companionship, perform light housekeeping tasks, prepare nutritious meals, among other helpful tasks. We can even coordinate services between various healthcare providers.

Contact us at 704-333-5214 for a free in-home assessment and see how we can help your loved one.

Check out Perks of Home Care to learn how a care provider can help.

Situations When Home Care is Beneficial

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Home care is especially beneficial when affordability, closeness to the family, and a high level of comfort is important. With home care, your loved one can receive the care they need while staying in a place that is comfortable and familiar.

Here are a few situations when home care is beneficial:


You are looking for a more affordable option. Home care is a more affordable alternative to a nursing home that also provides the most comfort.

You want your family to stay together. Allowing your loved one to stay close to family members is a great benefit of home care.

You want more personalized care. When you hire a Comprehensive Home Care specialist a nurse will be assigned to assist your family member. This will result in a better patient/nurse relationship. Your loved one will know that the nurse assisting them will know exactly what they need.

You only need a nurse for a few hours a day. People in nursing homes receive constant assistance, however, some only need assistance for a few hours a day. If you want your family to play a bigger role in the assistance of your loved one, then home care is the best option.

These are a few situations when home care can be very beneficial. It will give you a lot of freedom, so you can be sure you are making the best choice for your loved one.  We offer many different types of services. Consider Comprehensive Home Care when searching for the best option for your loved one. Contact us here or call us at 704-333-5214 for a free in-home assessment.

Check out Signs that Your Loved One May Need Senior Home Care to learn more.

Perks of Home Care

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Home care provides equal, if not better, care for your loved one than other assisted living options. And, there are many perks of home care versus the other options. For this reason, it’s the main choice for people who need assistance but still want to feel independent.

Main perks of home care include:


Familiar environment

Your loved one may already be going through a lot emotionally. If it is possible, you should do what you can to keep them in their own house where they are comfortable. They may need to depend on a specialist for assistance, but at least they are familiar with their surroundings.

Dedicated attention

Comprehensive home care provides dedicated specialists who will take the time to learn exactly what your loved one needs. This type of one-on-one attention will help build a relationship between your loved one and the specialist.

Surrounded by family and friends

Home care gives your loved one the opportunity to be surrounded by family and friends while receiving the care they need. Other assisted care options require loved ones to depend entirely on strangers which can be scary for both you and your loved one.

Cost efficient

Home care is the best, most cost-efficient option for assisted living. Other options can get very pricey and may not be as effective for treating your loved one’s health.

Consider Comprehensive Home Care to provide these benefits and more. We offer many different home care services and will be willing to accommodate your loved one’s needs. Contact us here or call us at 704.333.5214.

Check out How Do I Know if My Loved One Might Benefit from Home Care? to learn more.

Types of Conditions that Require Home Care

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It is necessary to do whatever it takes to help a loved one recover when an illness or disease plagues their life. They will need support in the form of comfort and medical attention, and as such certain conditions require home care.

Such conditions that require home care include:


Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis causes weakness in the bones, causing back problems, an increase in the risk of falling,  and difficulty walking. Comprehensive Home Care can accommodate their needs during this time.

Alzheimer’s Disease

When someone has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s their life is going to change a lot. It would be best to keep them in a place they are familiar with as their memory will be fading. They may need specialized care or even someone by their side at all times. Comprehensive Home Care can help in whichever way deemed fit.

Stroke

When someone has a stroke their brain has been partially damaged, and you don’t know how long it will take for them to recover. Since their brain won’t be functioning at a top-notch state, it would be better to surround them with family and friends than to put them in a nursing home full of strangers.

Mental Illnesses

Home care is the most appropriate option for anyone suffering from mental illness. It is in your loved one’s interest to keep their environment as familiar as possible. Also, it might be better for them to be treated by one nurse instead of many. This gives them a better opportunity to build a relationship with their home care assistant.

Comprehensive Home Care is the best option to take some worry off your plate. We offer many different types of home care services that will be of great benefit to your loved one. From personal care to companion care, we will be able to offer you the best service you can find. Contact us here or call us at 704.333.5214.

Check out Ask These Questions Before Hiring a Home Care Specialist to take the next step.

Ask These Questions Before Hiring a Home Care Specialist

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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

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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.

Tips to Start the Care Provider Search

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The care provider search is no easy task. And deciding on the best care for a loved one is an extremely important, sometimes urgent, decision. Some struggle with knowing where to even begin.

Here are some tips to start the care provider search:

Assess the needs of your loved one.

In order to find the right care provider, you must first know what your loved one’s needs are. Do they need someone only to help with meals, baths, and cooking? Or do they need 24-hour care? Answering these questions will help you narrow down the type of specialist you need and set you on the right path.

Do your research and ask questions.

Put together a list of providers that meet the requirements. Interview each provider in person, over the phone just won’t cut it. You can tell a lot about a person by meeting them and making eye contact. Before the meeting, make sure that you put together a list of questions to ask. These questions should include things such as quality of care provided, fees, services provided, and hours the provider is able to work.

Check references.

It is very important to check references and do a background check on any provider you are considering. This person is going to be taking care of your loved one and you want to be sure that it is safe. Request the names of two or three different clients and talk to each of them if possible. Ask how the provider treated their loved ones and if they would employ them again.

Adjust and observe.

Your job does not end after you have found a provider. Your loved one’s needs may change, so it’s best to continue to play an active role. You should also keep an eye on how the provider gets along with your loved one until you are sure that they are a good fit.

From assessing the needs of your loved one to not being afraid to ask questions, these tips will truly help the process. Comprehensive Home Care can help in this process, as well. Contact us here or call us at 704.333.5214 to see how we can assist.

Check out Senior Living Options to learn about the different options available to you and your loved one.

When Your Loved One Requires Dementia Home Care Support

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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.