While we typically hear of outbreaks among babies and small children, adults can also get RSV, and those who are 65 and older are at risk of severe infection. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it’s estimated that more than 177,000 older adults are hospitalized with RSV infections each year in the United States.
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.
Winter weather is on the way, so now is a good time to prepare your senior’s home for the cold, snowy days that lie ahead. Here’s a checklist to get you started.
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.”
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.”
If you’re like most people, you want to remain in your home as you get older… but according to a new poll, you probably aren’t fully prepared to age in place.
New findings University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging suggest many people in their 50’s, 60’s and 70’s need to do more to modify their homes or plan for services they many need if they want to avoid or delay a move.