At Trail Ridge Home Care, we’re committed to elevating the privilege of caregiving – it’s one of our five core values. “Our caregivers are amazing. They’re rock stars. They’re the heart and hands of our organization,” said Jeff Hongslo, chief executive officer of American Baptist Homes of the Midwest (ABHM).“We’re beyond grateful for our team of caregivers who work day-in and day-out to help seniors age safely in their homes for as long as possible. Their compassion and commitment to seniors are second to none.”

Do you have a long-term care plan? Do family members fully understand the details – where you want to live, where your important documents are, how you plan to pay for the care you might need? It’s estimated that a person turning 65 today has a 70% chance of needing some type of long-term care or support as they age. With odds like that, it’s important to prepare for what lies ahead.

Do you know if they have living wills, health care powers of attorney or do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders? An advance directive is a legal document that goes into effect only if a person is incapacitated and unable to speak for themselves. It helps others know what type of medical care they want – or don’t want.

Whether it’s playing a game of Scrabble with a grandchild or enjoying lunch with a best friend, there’s just something special about being around people you love.

“Socialization is important at any age, but it’s critical for older adults – especially for those who live alone,” said Sierra Goetz, co-founder and operations manager for Trail Ridge Home Care’s partner, the HomeCare Advocacy Network (HCAN). “Research shows spending time with family and friends can boost a senior’s quality of life – including their physical and mental health.”

Continue reading The Importance of Socializing for Seniors

If you’re caring for a loved with with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, you may have noticed an increase in confusion, anxiety or even aggression at the end of the day. This type of late day confusion is often referred to as sundowning.

“Sundowning is not a disease itself – it’s a group of symptoms that is marked by signs of anxiety, sadness, confusion, irritation and pacing or wandering,” said Linda Lundeen, Care Advocate Success Trainer at Trail Ridge Home Care’s partner, the HomeCare Advocacy Network (HCAN). “It’s called sundowning, because behavior change typically starts around dinner time and often continues into the night.”

Continue reading What is Sundowning and What Can You do About it?

Does your mom still have decorative throw rugs scattered around her home?

Is your dad’s living room cluttered with magazines, newspapers, books and other items?

Do you worry that your aging loved one’s shower may not be safe?

If you answered yes to any one of those questions, your senior’s home is probably not aging friendly.

Continue reading Home Safety Month: Small Changes Can Make a Big Difference

Each year in the United States, more than 5 million people are treated for skin cancer – with most cases found in people age 65 and older.

“Summer is here, which means we’ll all be spending more time outdoors soaking up the sunshine,” said Sierra Goetz, co-founder and operations manager at Trail Ridge Home Care’s partner, the HomeCare Advocacy Network (HCAN). “While sun exposure does have benefits – including mood improvement – too much exposure can be harmful. For seniors, many of whom have thinner skin, the risk is much higher.”

Continue reading Summer Skin Safety Tips for Seniors