Continue reading Seven Tips to Help Care for Someone With Alzheimer’s

Continue reading Hospital to Home – How a Professional Caregiver Can Aid in the Transition

Home modifications, like installing grab bars in the shower, are typically necessary for seniors who want to remain in their homes as they age. For those living with Alzheimer’s or another dementia, they’re especially important.

“Because dementia physically changes the brain, reasoning, judgement and decision-making can be seriously impaired. As the disease progresses, a person living with dementia may not be able to recognize common home hazards, or they could use basic household items in dangerous ways,” said Sierra Goetz, operations manager at Trail Ridge Home Care’s partner, the HomeCare Advocacy Network (HCAN). “However, with a few simple modifications, you can help loved ones living with dementia remain safely in their homes for as long as possible.” Continue reading Home Safety Tips for People Living with Dementia

Did your aging loved ones enjoy a few too many sweet treats over the holidays?

“It’s not uncommon for people of all ages to put on an extra pound or two during holidays,” said Sierra Goetz, operations manager at Trail Ridge Home Care’s partner, the HomeCare Advocacy Network (HCAN). “However, for older people it can be difficult to get rid of that extra weight – especially when winter weather limits outdoor activities.” Continue reading Winter Weather Exercises for Seniors

While winter can be a wonderland, it’s important to remember that colder temperatures, ice, snow and hours of darkness can pose risks for older adults.

“The cold weather months present some significant challenges for older adults,” said Sierra Goetz, co-founder and operations manager at Trail Ridge Home Care’s partner, the HomeCare Advocacy Network (HCAN). “As temperatures drop, seniors are more at risk for falls, hypothermia and the flu. It’s important to be aware of the hazards and take steps to help keep your aging loved ones safe and warm.” Continue reading Tips to Keep Your Senior Safe This Winter

For most of us, this is most wonderful time of the year. Unfortunately, for many seniors, it’s the worst.

“Instead of joy and excitement, the holidays can trigger bouts of sadness and loneliness for seniors – especially if they live alone,” said Teresa Steinfatt, vice president of business performance at the Trail Ridge Home Care’s partner, HomeCare Advocacy Network (HCAN). “During the holidays, feelings for lost loved ones and family members who live far away are often magnified. They also may struggle with shopping, decorating, baking and other traditional activities, which reminds them that they’re getting older and more frail.” Continue reading Beating the Holiday Blues

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.