Caring Tips For A Parent When You’re Part Of The Sandwich Generation

Posted in Home Care, Senior Care Tips |

February 15, 2023

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Are you a member of the Sandwich Generation? If you’re trying to balance taking care of your kids and taking care of a senior parent then you are. The members of the Sandwich Generation are often stretched very thin trying to meet the needs of both their children and their senior parent. And sometimes trying to squeeze in a job as well. If you’re feeling frustrated and overwhelmed by the responsibilities and challenges of trying to care for two different generations of your family first, take a deep breath. Elder care providers can take a lot of the day-to-day responsibilities of caring for a senior parent off of your shoulders.

Elder Care Geneva AL - Caring Tips For A Parent When You’re Part Of The Sandwich Generation

Elder Care Geneva AL – Caring Tips For A Parent When You’re Part Of The Sandwich Generation

Use these tips to give yourself some breathing room and help you find a balance in caring for your kids and your senior parent:

Get Elder Care

When your senior parent has elder care you won’t need to worry about helping your senior parent with things like housecleaning, laundry, meal preparation, shopping, medication management, and errands. A care provider can help with all of those tasks and more. Elder care makes it much easier for you to juggle the responsibilities you have and it gives your senior parent consistent care that they can rely on.

Use Time-Saving Services

When it comes to juggling the care of your senior loved one and care of your children sometimes spending a little money to gain time is worth it. You can use time-saving services like grocery delivery or grocery pickup to reduce the amount of time you need to spend taking your senior parent grocery shopping or shopping for them. You can also set up an account so they can take a car share service to the doctor, the gym, or anyplace else that you would usually drive them. Elder care can also help with getting your senior loved one to the doctor or other appointments.

Make Time To Keep Yourself Healthy

Even though it might seem like you’re being selfish if you block off time for yourself taking the time you need to keep yourself healthy isn’t selfish. Take the time to exercise, get your hair cut, and get to bed at a decent hour. You won’t be able to effectively care for anyone else if you’re not taking care of your own needs first.

Double Up On Chores And Errands

If services like grocery delivery aren’t available in your area try to double up on chores and errands to save time. For example, when you go to the grocery store do the shopping that your senior parent needs to be done as well as your own so you don’t have to make two separate trips to the store. Take their mail to the post office as well as your own. Doing double duty when it comes to errands and chores can save you hours of time each week that you can use for other things.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Elder Services in Geneva AL, please contact the caring staff at Wiregrass HomeCare today. Call us at 334-539-5900

Best Cat Breeds for Seniors

Posted in Home Care, Senior Care Tips |

January 16, 2023

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Companion pets can be one of the best things for seniors who want to age in place. Even if they have in-home care assistance services who come in regularly to help keep a senior to a routine, they may need more companionship than that. You may automatically think about a dog whenever you hear the word companion pet. These pets can be great, but dogs can also be time-consuming. If your senior needs something more low-key than a dog, they should consider a cat.

Home Care Assistance Daleville AL - Best Cat Breeds for Seniors

Home Care Assistance Daleville AL – Best Cat Breeds for Seniors

Cats can be easier to care for but just as loving as a dog. Most importantly, they can be strong emotional support animals. But did you know that there are different breeds of cats? Certain breeds may be better for your senior and home care assistance aides to take care of.

Here are breeds of cats to look for when you think your senior needs an extra companion.

Breed: Russian Blue

The Russian Blue, known for its stunning gray hue, is a docile and affectionate breed. They are not very active or needy, but they like being close to their human companions. They’re friendly to other cats, people of all species, and even some dogs (though this depends on the disposition of both animals).

Breed: Scottish Fold

The Scottish Fold, like the American Curl, is so called because of its unusually curled ears. Because of the breed’s gentle nature, it’s a breeze to care for one. Although it needs to be brushed regularly, it gets along well with children and other pets. Although the Scottish Fold won’t go tearing around the house in search of toys, it may be enticed into some light daily exercise if you choose, and it isn’t naturally prone to barking. This is the perfect cat if you have small kids who love to visit your senior.

Breed: Chartreux

The Chartreux is a muscular cat that seldom vocalizes feelings, but it may sometimes chatter at you. It enjoys physical activity and will benefit from everyday playing. The breed is also particularly canine in that it creates a deep attachment with a single owner, unlike all family members and guests. It is minimal care, requiring just food and water, and most of this breed can withstand being left alone for extended periods. This cat breed can be deeply loyal, which is great for some seniors.

Breed: Ragdoll

The Ragdoll is an attractive cat with a lengthy coat. The coat needs daily brushing, but as long as you stay on top, this should be a quick and enjoyable pastime for both of you. The affectionate cat will follow you around and is always willing to offer you help with whatever work you’re performing. They are perfect pets for seniors working around the house or even gardening outside, as they will stick close by.

The perfect breed will rely on your specific requirements. Some cats thrive as indoor cats, while others benefit from the regular independent exercise given by being let outside. You may love the frequent grooming that some breeds demand, or you may prefer the weekly five-minute brushing of a breed that requires less upkeep. Some cats like sitting on their owners’ laps, while others are more independent. Determine what is most essential to you and what you want in your future feline companion, and then choose the breed that most closely meets these criteria.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Home Care Assistance Services in Daleville AL, please contact the caring staff at Wiregrass HomeCare today. Call us at 334-539-5900

Helping Your Senior Go To The Doctors Easier

Posted in Home Care, Senior Care Tips |

January 2, 2023

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Maintaining optimal health in old age requires regular medical checkups. However, some elderly people may be resistant when it’s time for their appointment. There are numerous things that home care providers can do to make older citizens more comfortable with doctor’s visits, even if this can occur for a number of different reasons. Keep in mind that home care providers may need the assistance of family members to help encourage a senior to go to their doctor’s appointment.

Home Care Headland AL - Helping Your Senior Go To The Doctors Easier

Home Care Headland AL – Helping Your Senior Go To The Doctors Easier

Here are some ways to make this upcoming appointment easier.

Talk About the Appointment in Advance

It’s not a good idea for caregivers to take their elderly loved ones to the doctor on a whim. Instead, find a quiet time to get with the elderly person and explain why you’re taking them to the doctor. Then, inquire as to whether or not the senior has any worries regarding your planned visit. Even just a phone call from family members can help encourage a senior to go to the doctor.

Talk About Any Concerns Your Senior Has

Elderly people who refuse to accept their appointment may provide an explanation. Some people deny any problems exist, while others may be too afraid to admit they need help. Give careful attention to each worry and reassuring words.

Ask Them If They Want Someone Else In the Appointment Such as a Home Care Aide

As senior citizens share their worries, they might be supportive of providing possible answers. For some elders, it may help to have a trusted friend or family member accompany them. Encourage them or offer a companion, similar to home care providers. If they don’t want anyone to join them in the appointment, have them write down a list of concerns so they don’t forget what they want to talk about.

Have a Way for Them to Get There and Use Activities to Keep Them Distracted

Some elderly patients may be concerned about how they will get to their scheduled appointment. However, driving in a strange location may be intimidating for anybody, regardless of age. When going to the doctor causes anxiety, scheduling a ride there and back is a simple solution.

Anxiety overseeing the doctor may rise as the patient waits. If possible, carry along a small bag of food and entertainment options to keep the senior occupied throughout any delays. When waiting, pass the time with card games, periodicals, or audio novels.

Plan an outing with the elder as a form of positive reinforcement after the scheduled visit. A senior’s confidence may be bolstered for the following visit by various means, including a trip out to lunch, a modest gift, or simply some praise on the car ride home.

It’s time to talk to your senior about why they’re avoiding the doctor and figure out solutions to make it easier to go. Their doctor may also have ideas on how to get them to their appointment easier. Other doctors may also do house visits, which can make a senior feel much more comfortable seeing their healthcare professional.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Home Care Services in Headland AL, please contact the caring staff at Wiregrass HomeCare today. Call us at 334-539-5900

Oral Health Habits for Seniors

Posted in Home Care, Senior Care Tips |

December 19, 2022

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When a senior stops enjoying food, there could be a few problems. One of the biggest culprits is the lack of proper oral health. Dental hygiene is crucial for seniors but also something people forget to consider. Even if your senior has dentures or fake teeth, taking care of your mouth is an important healthy habit that should be focused on. If a senior needs help to brush teeth or just stick to a routine, it’s time to look into personal care at home services. These professionals can help a senior with personal needs like oral health and may even take a senior to the dentist for a checkup.

Personal Care at Home Eufaula AL - Oral Health Habits for Seniors

Personal Care at Home Eufaula AL – Oral Health Habits for Seniors

Here are some of the best tips your elderly loved one can use to take care of their teeth and mouth.

Personal Care at Home can Drive them to Visit the Dentist Regularly

For seniors to maintain good oral health, they must see the dentist regularly. Problems may fester and become much more serious if patients only come in sometimes or not at all. Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings with your dentist as soon as possible if you are a senior. If you know a senior who can’t get to an appointment and has been avoiding it, talk to their personal care at home professional and see if they can help drive a senior.

Brush Every Single Day and Continue Flossing

Dentists and medical professionals often advise their patients to wash their teeth twice daily, in the morning and before night. Dentists vary in their recommendations for when people should wash their teeth after eating. Many seniors’ oral hygiene routines, including brushing twice daily, will have been well established, but for those who want to take better care of their teeth and gums, it is essential to develop a regimen. Personal care at home can help remind a senior to brush after they’ve eaten a meal. A reminder can go a long way regarding oral health habits.

When it comes to maintaining good dental hygiene, many individuals neglect to floss on a daily basis even though doing so is essential. Seniors may benefit from better oral health and a decreased risk of cavities and gum disease by daily flossing. The advantages of flossing much outweigh the little discomfort of doing so once or twice a day.

Stop Using Tobacco

Your general and dental health are at risk when you smoke. One of the many adverse effects of smoking is discolored teeth. Tooth decay may be caused by chewing tobacco, and all tobacco products have been linked to esophageal and oral cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other significant and often fatal health issues. Your senior’s dentist may partner with their personal care at home professional to devise a plan to help a senior quit smoking. It may take a team of professionals and time to quit this habit.

Focus on Eating Less Sweets

Cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease are all consequences of a diet high in sugary foods and beverages. Brush your teeth immediately after consuming a dessert or sugary beverage, such as sweet tea or soda, to prevent tooth decay.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Personal Care at Home Services in Eufaula AL, please contact the caring staff at Wiregrass HomeCare today. Call us at 334-539-5900

Tips Seniors Can Use To Avoid Getting The Flu This Year

Posted in Home Care, Senior Care Tips |

October 3, 2022

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The flu can be very dangerous for seniors and it’s recommended that all seniors get a flu shot. But, the flu shot may not be able to prevent seniors from getting the flu or even bad colds once the weather starts to cool off and flu season starts. Home care providers can help them follow guidelines to prevent the flu.

If your senior loved one is immuno-compromised because they have a condition like cancer, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, or diabetes or if they have other health conditions that make them vulnerable to catching the flu they need to be especially careful.

Home Care Hartford AL - Tips Seniors Can Use To Avoid Getting The Flu This Year

Home Care Hartford AL – Tips Seniors Can Use To Avoid Getting The Flu This Year

Some ways that seniors can prevent catching the flu include:

Wear A Mask

Even though masks are not required in most places anymore it’s still a good idea for seniors to wear a protective mask when they are in public. Masks don’t just help prevent the spread of COVID-19 they also help prevent the spread of colds and the flu. When seniors are going out socially, going to the store, or going out to run errands they should wear protective masks. It’s just a smart way to avoid becoming ill with viruses like flu that are easily transmissible.

Get Home Care

Home care makes it easier for seniors to stay well because elder care allows seniors to stay at home safely and comfortably. A senior that has home care doesn’t need to go out on their own to shop or do errands because the care provider can do those chores for them.

A care provider will also vacuum and dust regularly, mop the floor, do laundry, and clean so that the home stays free from germs. A clean and sanitary environment is important for seniors, and seniors who have mobility challenges or other challenges may need some help keeping the house clean.

Wash Hands Often

Seniors and those around them should be washing their hands frequently throughout the day. But, seniors and those around them should pay special attention to washing their hands after talking to someone or spending time around someone. Washing with good quality antibacterial soap and following the recommended procedure for washing the hands will help seniors prevent getting the flu or spreading the flu to others by accident. Anyone who visits a senior loved one during the fall and winter should wash their hands when they arrive as a courtesy to prevent spreading the flu.

Social Distancing

Social distancing is something that some people assume is not necessary anymore, but it’s actually a smart thing for anyone that has health issues or is older to continue doing. Social distance just means staying far away from someone else so that if they are sick they can’t spread that illness to you. When you are in a store, at the post office, or in a restaurant you should always try to stay at least six feet away from other people. While social distancing won’t protect seniors from all illnesses it will help protect seniors from colds and flu throughout the fall and winter.

Source:  https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/actions-prevent-flu.htm

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring Home Care Services in Hartford AL, please contact the caring staff at Wiregrass HomeCare today. Call us at 334-539-5900

Senior Care Tips: Ways That You Can Help Your Elderly Loved One Stop Hoarding?

Posted in Senior Care, Senior Care Tips |

August 6, 2021

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Senior Care Tips: When you go to your elderly loved one’s house, what do you see?

Does it seem like your elderly loved one has their belongings on every surface of their home? Does your elderly loved one keep all old newspapers? Maybe, your elderly loved one has hundreds of books they never read. These are just a couple of things that many senior citizens hoard. However, it could be anything else, as well. Hoarding is often a sign of depression, dementia, or loneliness. Learn more about it today with these senior care tips, so you can start helping your elderly loved one.

 

Senior Care Tips: Hoarding

Senior Care Tips: Hoarding

Talk About Safety

One of the ways that you can help your elderly loved one to stop hoarding is to talk to them about safety. Many senior citizens don’t realize the dangers of having so much in their house. Some of these dangers include:

  • Fire safety
  • Tripping

These are the most common safety issues with hoarding. If you talk to your elderly loved one about these dangers, hopefully, they will see that having so much in their house could be a huge problem.

After having this talk, if your elderly loved one is willing to let go of some belongings, you or an elder care provider can help them sort through things.

Getting Extra Help

If it seems like your elderly loved one is hoarding, you should talk to them. They may not be purposefully keeping everything. There could be many reasons why your elderly loved one doesn’t get rid of things. Some of these things include:

  • Hurting too much to pick things up
  • Feeling overwhelmed with all their belongings
  • Needing help doing household chores
  • Needing help sorting through items to decide what to keep and what to get rid of

If these things are happening, hopefully, you or an elder care provider can help your elderly loved one. All it would take is for someone to help your elderly loved one work through each section of their house.

Regular Cleaning

Once you can help your elderly loved one get their hoarding under control, regular cleaning is important. If you or an elder care provider can help your elderly loved one clean their home at least once a week, hopefully, it won’t get that messy or cluttered anymore.

If you go to your elderly loved one’s house and clutter keeps accumulating, be sure to talk to them again before it gets too bad. Find out what is happening again and see what your elderly loved one might need help with. The senior care tips above can help you with this.

 

If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Senior Care in Abbeville, AL, please contact the caring staff at Wiregrass HomeCare today. Call us at 334-539-5900.

Sources

https://www.oprah.com/home/how-to-overcome-hoarding/all