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

The lingering COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on everyone – especially older adults. According to an AARP Foundation report, two-thirds of adults reported experience social isolation and high levels of anxiety since the beginning of the  pandemic. And, unfortunately, there is no vaccine to prevent loneliness.

The good news is that there are things you can do to improve your senior loved one’s mental health and help them keep a positive outlook on life. Experts suggest you do the following:

Continue reading Ten Ways to Boost Your Senior’s Mental Health