Behavior Changes Are Often First Signs of Dementia
Alexiss Munoz2018-07-05T20:00:55+00:00New Checklist Helps Catch Symptoms Earlier
Researchers presenting at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference 2016 (AAIC 2016) in July introduced and described a new condition known as mild behavioral impairment (MBI) that may be a forerunner of dementia.
MBI Checklist
They also proposed a new MBI checklist that physicians and research professionals can use to help recognize and measure sharp changes in mood and behavior that may precede the memory and thinking problems of dementia. Eventually, a similar checklist may be used by caregivers and family members to document the nature and extent of symptoms, and measure changes over time.
MBI would be a clinical designation that precedes mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a diagnosis that is used to describe people experiencing some cognitive problems but who can still perform most daily functions. Individuals with MBI would typically be functionally independent and younger than typical dementia patients. For a diagnosis, changes in behavior and mood must be present for at least six months and be a change from the person’s longstanding pattern of behavior.
The checklist contains 34 questions in various categories of behavioral symptoms, including: becoming agitated, aggressive, irritable or temperamental; becoming more easily frustrated or impatient; hoarding objects; saying rude or crude things the person would not have said before; becoming suspicious of intentions or motives of others, often to the point of believing they are in danger or that others are planning to harm them or steal their belongings; becoming apathetic or more impulsive.
Warning Signs
Mood and behavior changes have long been known as early warning signs of some kinds of dementia, and research has shown that Alzheimer’s can, indeed, start as a behavioral issue.
“While memory loss is a hallmark of Alzheimer’s, early symptoms such as anxiety, confusion and disorientation are often more common, troubling and obvious to family members,” according to Maria C. Carillo, PhD, chief science officer, Alzheimer’s Association.
Studies have shown that a person with mild cognitive impairment who also experiences mood or behavior changes develops full-on dementia faster than one who does not have behavior changes and, over time, experiences worse symptoms.
Not everyone who is diagnosed with MBI will develop dementia. But catching behavior changes early can lead to an earlier diagnosis of dementia and/or effective treatment that will allow the person to live a more normal life longer. Some behaviors, like anxiety and depression, can be helped with therapy and medication. There are also clinical trials these patients might qualify for.
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Improve Balance in the Elderly and Prevent Falls
Alexiss Munoz2018-07-05T16:45:16+00:00Falls are the leading cause of death from injury among seniors, and the risk increases with age. Fully one third of those over age 65 fall each year, and many suffer severe or even fatal injuries.
Research
Researchers at the Mobility and Brain Function Program at the Institute for Aging Research (Harvard Medical School) are concentrating on understanding what causes older adults to fall, which will hopefully lead to development of preventive measures. They have found a direct correlation between balance and reduction of fall risk in older adults.
In a recent article, Dr. Brad Manor, the program’s director, explains that as we grow older, our ability to efficiently perform multiple tasks at the same time start to slowly deteriorate. Even the simplest of simultaneous activities, such as walking and talking, can disrupt our balance and put us at risk for a serious fall-related injury.
Mobility, the researchers conclude, is both physical and mental. The physical part relies on the ability of your muscles and reflexes to create the movement necessary to help maintain balance. The mental part relies on your ability to pay attention to the world around you, your short-term memory of where your legs and feet are located related to the ground, and your ability to make the correct decision to change your movements when needed, such as when a sidewalk is wet or covered with snow.
Preventative Exercises
In an effort to find ways to prevent falls by seniors, researchers at the Center have started looking at exercises that target both the physical and mental fundamentals in mobility. They found that the purposeful movements and fluid repetitious motions in Tai Chi not only boost muscle function but also stimulate the mental functions that make mobility easier. Yoga and dance also have great mind-body interactions and work well to improve balance in older adults. While walking on a treadmill, riding a bike or strength training are all beneficial exercises, they were found to not have the balance component necessary to most effectively prevent falls.
Often, older adults will fall, become injured and then be less active. This chain of events causes further balance deterioration and greater risk of suffering another fall in the future. Dr. Manor stresses that it’s never too late or too early to start exercises to help improve balance and prevent the debilitating results that can come with a balance-related injury later. He does caution that any balance-based exercise should be done in a group or with a partner for safety reasons, and to check with your doctor before beginning a new exercise.
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Veterans’ Benefits – What You Need to Know
Alexiss Munoz2018-07-05T16:45:26+00:00Veterans are an important class of our population and as such, it is important to know about the various benefits available to them. Many of the benefits are based on the type of service by the veteran, the health of the veteran, or a combination of these factors. The next several paragraphs will outline benefits veterans should be aware of, however, it is recommended veterans speak with a legal professional who will be able to tailor their benefits to their unique situation.
Disability Benefits
Disability benefits are available for military veterans who were disabled during their service or as a result of their service. In order to qualify, veterans must have a service-related disability rating of 10 percent or more, according to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA). Veterans must also have been discharged under circumstances other than a dishonorable discharge. Typically, these benefits range from $127 to $3,000 per month and you may be eligible for increased benefits if your disability is “very severe.”
Pension Program
The VA also provides a pension program for veterans. This program is needs-based and in order to qualify a veteran must have a permanent disability that is not connected to their service or a limited income without the ability to work. There are several other requirements veterans must fulfill in order to be eligible for the pension program such as having been discharged from service after at least 90 days of active service with one day being in an eligible wartime period, and be 65 years of age or older. Veterans who are eligible for a basic pension may qualify for a pension at an increased rate if they require the assistance of another individual to perform daily tasks.
As veterans age, health care becomes increasingly important and the government recognizes this and provides certain health care services available only to veterans. The VA is required to provide hospital and outpatient care defined as “necessary” to all eligible veterans. In addition to the necessary benefits, veterans may qualify for drug dependency treatment, blindness rehabilitation, and HIV/AIDS treatment programs, among others. The quality of health care at the VA is consistently ranked high among their peers, and with over 1,200 locations where veterans can go to receive care, it is important that veterans take advantage of these benefits and meet with a legal professional to determine their eligibility.
With the rapid rate at which technology changes and new discoveries are being found, it can be challenging for veterans to return to civilian life and interview for a job without some of their skills being outdated. This is one of the reasons educational and occupational programs are so popular with veterans. The most popular is the GI Bill, which is provided by the VA. There are several different GI Bill programs, each with different eligibility requirements, but they all are designed to assist veterans with the cost of obtaining an education or occupational training. In addition to the GI Bill, veterans also have access to other programs such as the Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment Program, which helps service-connected disabled veterans find jobs suitable for their conditions, and the Education and Career Counseling Program which provides veterans with career counseling services.
The Veterans Administration recognizes that veterans require a wide range of services, especially when transitioning home and as they age. If you or someone you know may be eligible for VA benefits, please do not hesitate to reach out to our office with questions or to learn more.
A New Level of Care | TrueCare Homes™
TrueCareAdmin2016-05-12T16:27:13+00:00We are excited to announce a new level of senior care to northeast Indiana.
Through TrueCare Homes™, attentive care will be provided to senior individuals in private, comfortable and well-maintained residential homes. We believe that all people deserve to live in a place of growth and meaning and that those who are highly engaged in their community, instead of being isolated from it, are much more satisfied with their quality of life and their ability to make positive choices.
TrueCare Homes™ feature twenty-four hour a day personal care by People TrueCare™ staff, receiving ongoing training and education in the fields of dementia and Alzheimer’s care. The home feature custom made meals, light-filled rooms, fully furnished living spaces, fire sprinkler systems, generator for power outages, wide doorways and level floors, private bedrooms for residents to fill with their personal items, bathrooms to accommodate all levels of care and are always immaculately maintained.
All individuals residing in TrueCare Homes™ can expect to be treated with dignity and respect while receiving a high quality level of personal care in a safe environment.
TrueCare Homes™ are equipped with TrueTraq™, a care monitoring system that includes health profiles and charts as well as an on-line family portal to see what is happening with their loved one.
Non-medical services provided include the following:
- Companionship Care
- Personal Care/Bathing
- Home Cooked Meals
- Medication Reminders
- Laundry
- Incontinence Care
- Engaging Activities
TrueCare Homes™ provide the perfect balance of freedom and assistance. Call us today for more information or to be added to the waiting list.
Golf, Tips on How to Stay Safe
TrueCareAdmin2016-05-12T16:27:07+00:00Many retirees love going golfing as they should. It is a relaxing and social way to get outside and stay active. One quality that defines golf is its leisurely pace compared to other sports which makes it a fairly low risk sport however injuries can still happen. Common injuries are to the lower back, wrist and elbow, head and eye. Causes of injury include overuse, incorrect technique, hitting the ground instead of the ball, aggravation of a previous injury and falling.
The following are tips on how to stay safe on your day out on the course.
- Do warm ups and stretch your arms and back before you play
- Take lessons to practice good technique. Good technique reduce chance of injury
- Drink plenty of water to prevent heat stroke
- Wear sun screen
- Have your equipment professionally fitted
- Wear good quality shoes and gloves
- Be sure to stand a safe distance from other players when they are preparing to swing
Have a Great day on the course!
Old Dogs Can and Should Learn New Tricks: The Internet
TrueCareAdmin2016-05-12T16:27:36+00:00Research has shown that over the last few years the percent of the elderly using the internet has been on the rise. This has researchers excited because the internet is expected to be a positive influence on the quality of life of the elderly.
Benefits that can be expect are:
- Retained mental sharpness: Having access to mentally challenging games, puzzles, and thought provoking entertainment has been a proven way to help keep people more sharp as they age.
- Financial gains: Seniors can still make money after retirement by working from home online. They can start their own online business, blog, or do freelance writing for website content.
- Shopping: Almost anything can be purchased online and delivered to your doorstep these days. Elderly people can still get access to just about anything they want without having to leave their homes. This can especially be useful in the winter when roads and walkways are slick.
- Social media: Social media such as Facebook and Skype make it possible to keep in closer contact with friends and family. This can help seniors keep up with their children and grandchildren as well as reconnect with old friends.
With so many clear benefits for seniors provided by internet know-how the future looks bright for the ever expanding percentage of seniors who can surf the web.
Drink Plenty of Water
TrueCareAdmin2016-05-12T16:20:59+00:00Water as we all know is an essential part of life as we all know. Unfortunately many of us aren’t drink enough of it. According to some studies the human body should drink between 3-5 pints of water a day.
The following list is comprised of the benefits of drinking plenty of water:
- Water can help with weight loss. While water doesn’t directly affect weight loss it is a much healthier choice than many other beverages out there.
- Water helps energize muscles. When muscles are dehydrated they become fatigued, drinking plenty of water can quench this problem.
- Water helps your skin look good. Dehydration makes your skin look more dry and wrinkled, which can be improved with proper hydration.
- Water helps prevent constipation.
- Water helps your kidneys get rid of water soluble waste in your body.
Care Taker Burnout
TrueCareAdmin2016-05-12T16:27:45+00:00If you are a loved one’s care taker you probably know all the details about the health of the person for whom you’re caring. You’re on top of what medications must be taken and when, and you can probably even spot minor changes in her mood and attitude. Are you just as aware about what is going on with you?
Studies have shown that the answer is likely no. When you’re caring for a loved one, it’s easy to forget about your own needs, putting you at serious risk of burnout. Caretaker burnout is a serious and common side effect of the stress that comes with caring for a loved one. How can you tell you are burned out?
- Mood Swings, and symptoms of anxiety or depression, being on crisis mode 24/7 can leave anyone feeling stressed and hopeless.
- A weakened immune system, you are getting sick more often.
- You can’t remember the last time you met up with a friend. Being worried about a loved one all the time makes you forget that you have needs as well.
If one or more of these applies to you could be a burnt out care taker. If you are you should consider these tips to help make your caretaker job less stressful.
- Get some exercise, force yourself to get moving. Exercise is the best stress reliever. Not only will you feel better right away, the surge of endorphins that exercise triggers lifts your mood, clears your head and helps you sleep better at night. A brisk 30-minute walk or jog on the treadmill, even a 10-minute walk around the block, jump-starts your brain, soothes nerves and powers up your immune system.
- Go out and meet a friend for a social visit. Having your own time to relax and have fun can really boost morale and recharge your batteries.
- See a doctor regularly to keep yourself well.
- Ask family for help in the caretaker role or consider hiring professionals to help as a caretaker to help lighten the load and give some time to take care of you.
Tips for More Restful Nights
TrueCareAdmin2016-05-12T16:27:52+00:00Seniors don’t need as much sleep as they did when they were younger. They usually only need 7-8 hours a day. Unfortunately for many they seem to have trouble getting those hours. These are some suggestions that can help with getting more sleep.
- See a doctor if you are experiencing chronic pain, depression, or frequent urination. Getting those problems treated can help lead to a more peaceful night’s sleep.
- Don’t just lay in bed. If you can’t fall asleep after 20 minutes or so try doing something quiet and relaxing like reading, listening to music or taking a hot shower
- Limit your caffeine intake
- Try not to eat much before bed
- Get into a routine by waking up at the same time every day
- Try exercising daily
Winter is Coming
TrueCareAdmin2016-05-12T16:19:52+00:00
Winter is nearly upon us and as the temperatures drop and the snow falls it is important to prepare for the dangers that come with winter. For seniors in the northern part of the country winter poses a number of risks we need to be on the look out for. Reports have shown much higher incidences of injury and illness due to icy sidewalks, cold and dry air, flu viruses and in many cases, hypothermia. If you are worried about the upcoming winter fear not, I have compiled a list of tips that help you stay health this season.
- Older adults are more susceptible to hypothermia, which occurs when too much heat escapes from the body. It is important to dress warmly and keep dry, but equally important to remember good nutrition. Food provides the fuel we need to keep warm. Hot food and warm drinks are best to warm the body.
- When going outdoors, remember to dress warmly. Wear layered, loose-fitting clothing and mittens. When possible, wear a hat to protect against heat loss since close to half of all body heat is lost through the head.
- You can prevent many winter hazards simply by planning ahead. Before winter arrives, check all the windows and doors in your home for cracked or worn sealants. A new application of caulking may be needed; in a pinch, staple a sheet of plastic tarp over really old windows.
- To avoid slips and falls, wear non-skid boots or other shoes with plenty of traction.
- Cold weather can put extra strain on the heart. When doing winter chores such as shoveling snow, do some warm-up exercises first and take many breaks.
- When using a portable heater, plug the heater directly into an outlet, not to an extension cord. Make sure the outlet and wiring are in good condition. Keep the area around the heater clear of furniture, newspaper or other flammable materials and take special care to avoid tripping over cords.
Pet Safety
TrueCareAdmin2016-05-12T16:28:01+00:00I have doing a lot of reading recently about the pros and cons for seniors on the topic of owning a pet and I have come out conflicted. Many studies have proven that pets are good for the health their owners Studies suggest that pet owners will commonly have their blood pressure improve, their disposition on life becomes more positive, and they seem to have more purpose in their day to day lives.
However there are other studies that suggest that pets, especially cats and dogs, are a great hazard to seniors. 240 seniors are sent to the emergency room everyday by pet caused falls. These falls usually happen because the senior tripped over their pet, a pet toy, or got tangled in a leash while on a walk. Ultimately it’s going to be a case by case situation for whether or not it’s a good idea for a senior to keep a pet based on whether or not the pet owner has a history of falls and if the pet owner has people that could help them take care of the pet more safely.
Tips for pet owners:
- Consider hiring a dog walker.
- Consider either get rid of chew toys or keep them to a minimal as they pose a tripping hazard
- Consider having your dog take obedience or behavioral training classes
Health Benefits of Fishing
TrueCareAdmin2016-05-12T16:28:10+00:00Fishing is a great low stress and low impact sport that keeps the fisherman moving and active for an entire day. In addition to be a fun, relaxing, and relatively safe way to spend the day it is also a great way to stay active and healthy.
Benefits for the heart
Walking around your favorite fishing hole can be a great way to keep your heart rate up as you stroll around casting line after line. In addition to walking the act of reeling in a fish can also serve to keep your body in motion.
Benefits the Brain
Being outdoors and spending a few relaxing hours outside can be a great way to relieve stress. It also give the mind a chance to unplug and recharge which can give you more focus.
Benefits to the Body
Fishing is a great way to improve dexterity because it involves baiting a hook, casting a line, and reeling in the lines. This keeps your arms, fingers, and shoulders flexible and gives you a chance to use muscles that don’t see a lot of action day to day.
Taste of the Arts
TrueCareAdmin2016-05-12T16:19:12+00:00
For those out there who are looking to expand your artistic horizons Fort Wayne is hosting a free to the public Arts festival on Saturday Aug. 23. The festival will have ten stages and over 70 different live performances including music, theater, and dancing. In addition to the performances there will be a number of hands on activities, a variety of great food available, and free admission to the museum of art and history center. It will be a fun way to take in the city and enjoy the summer season.
An Engaged Patient is a Healthy Patient
TrueCareAdmin2016-05-12T16:28:21+00:00In a survey from the Center for Advancing Health it was revealed that patients with chronic conditions are not nearly proactive enough about their health. Surveyed doctors state that patients don’t take the time to become more informed about their conditions and are often misinformed or lack critical knowledge. Health-care providers want patients to take a more active role in their own care because it leads to lower costs and better outcomes.
Tips to help become a more proactive and engaged patient:
- Bring a list of questions to doctor’s appointments.
- Ask if the medicines you are being prescribed will interact poorly with other medicines you are taking
- Ask if the medicines you are taking will interact poorly with other health problems you may be having
- Maintain a personal medical record
Gardening, A Great Way to Stay Active
TrueCareAdmin2016-05-12T16:18:35+00:00
We all know that leading an active lifestyle can improve the quality of your life significantly but did you know you can get the same benefits in your own backyard? A recent study by Texas A&M looked at the benefits of gardening on the health and wellness of Seniors. Researchers observed and interviewed 298 seniors and discovered the participants who kept a garden were more likely to have a more optimistic outlook on life, a more positive self-image, and (not surprisingly) a diet comprised of more healthy fresh foods.
If you are reading and thinking of starting your own garden I have a few tips that can help make all the difference for the senior gardener:
- Purchase seed and seed tape for easier handling and planting.
- Use a vertical garden or trellis. This allows you to plant and weed without stooping or bending.
- Build and design raised beds that provide a place to sit and garden.
- Try using a stool, chair, or bench to avoid constant stooping or squatting.
- For safety sake, garden early in the morning or late in the day. Avoid being out between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Drink plenty of decaffeinated fluids to prevent dehydration. Also, allow time for breaks in the shade.
- Wear lightweight clothing, long sleeved shirt, eye protection, sunscreen, a big hat to shade face, and gardening gloves.
On behalf of People TrueCare, we hope you have a bountiful season of healthy and colorful outcomes of your gardening talents!
Checklist in effect for senior citizen care
TrueCareAdmin2016-05-12T16:28:36+00:00Are you taking over the responsibilities of caring for your parents, a loved one or a senior friend? Understanding and organizing another person’s personal, financial, and legal affairs can be overwhelming if you don’t have a set of guidelines to work from.
What should be on the list?
Attorney, Certified Public Accountant, Certified Financial Planner, Trust Officer, Insurance Agent, Religious advisor, Doctor, a neighbour who runs errands, social services in use such as home-bound meals.
Find out where important documents are kept and write everything down on a log. Estate documents, living will, birth certificates, marriage licenses, social security card, insurance cards.
Financial information should be stored in a secure place. Make a list including address, account owner, account number, beneficiary and value. Chequing, Savings, and Investment accounts, Stocks, Mutual Funds, Investments, Trusts, IRAs, Retirement Plans, Pensions, etc.
Compile basic medical information. Physicians, Specialists, Medical Conditions, Current medications or treatments, allergies, past surgeries. Keep a copy of medical information in the person’s home in an easy to access place in case of an emergency and a second copy with the Health Care Attorney-In-Fact.
Having information at your fingertips will help ease the transition and make the process less overwhelming for all concerned.
Make sure this list is accessible at all times to anyone who is taking care of the seniors you care for.
Home is where the heart is healthiest
TrueCareAdmin2016-05-12T16:17:50+00:00
Individuals cannot determine their quality of life by looking at just one aspect of their wellbeing. Instead, they must evaluate their emotional, intellectual and physical states, in order to paint a more complete picture. This multiplies the considerations when making life-changing decisions, including where and how best to live—whether assisted in a nursing home or independently in their own homes.
“There is a time and place for every living situation” says Dianna Holmes, COO at People TrueCare, “Most seniors will want to stay in their homes because of the strong emotional bonds they have with it.”
Along with these emotional ties, there may also be health benefits to staying at home rather than opting for the assisted living of a shared facility.
For instance, “It’s clinically proven that large groups of people often share communicable, viral infections, things like colds,” Holmes says, “Individuals living in single-family residences have stricter control over their environment and the comings and goings of other people.”
Evidence also suggests that infection rates are lower for individuals recovering from surgery at home than those in a facility.
Remaining at home also allows seniors to maintain their customary diet, individually tailored to any eating restrictions they may have. “It’s much harder to get what you want when a kitchen is cooking for a large group, rather than for a single table,” Holmes explains, “You can’t underestimate the nutritional benefits of home-made and from-scratch cooking on an individual’s long term health.” adding that individuals living at home are also in a better position to dictate their meal times.
Remaining in a familiar setting also allows seniors be physically close to their possessions they treasure, keep a schedule they’re accustomed to and do activities they prefer.
“When considering what an ideal living situation is for Mom or Dad, ask them what their goals are,” Holmes recommends, “Every situation is unique. Finding a customizable solution that keeps people in their own homes can be a great option.”
Itsy-bitsy, easy-peasy technology helps seniors
TrueCareAdmin2016-05-12T16:29:05+00:00High-tech gift ideas can delight the elderly, help with their day to day and connect them to loved ones.
The global village’s latest high-tech gadgets are not just the playthings of the young. The young at heart can also be captivated and entertained by new technology, and some of it is actually quite age appropriate. Best of all, the latest touch-screen devices, like Apple’s iPad, also double as powerful tools. Their dead-simple, ease-of-use means that they can help seniors overcome some of aging’s mounting obstacles.
When considering a high-tech gift for a senior this holiday season, think about how it could help your loved one with one of their daily challenges.
Can they hear you now?
One common health issue that seems to plague most of the aging population is their failing sense of hearing. If they miss most parts of the shows they watch, this can lead to frustration, boredom and increased isolation. Give them back the gift of hearing with earphones which they can use for watching TV. Read up on this blog to find the best one.
What time is it, dear?
A simple gift that can make a big difference is a talking clock. We all want to know the answer to the eternal question: “What time is it?”. If our vision is impaired or our ability to read a clock is gone, having a clock that will tell you the time can be a real life saver.
Don’t click, just poke.
The choices are endless when we think of tablet computers these days. My personal favorite is the iPad: it’s easy to use, has a crisp display, and is incredibly multipurpose, from reading and socializing, to gaming, and staying up to date on current events.
Combined with an Internet connection, a new generation touch-screen device is not unlike giving a senior a hand-held, interactive window, allowing them access to places, news, stories and events from the outside world. With video conference calls, they’ll feel closer and more connected with their loved ones, especially when mobility and geography are issues. Give them access to the entire world, at their fingertips.
I’m a book person.
Simpler tablets, the Kindle or Nook may be good hand-held options as well. Make a list of what your loved one will use the tablet for the most and gear your purchase toward those features.
For seniors with an extensive library of actual books, the splurge item this holiday season may be Merlin’s Desktop Electronic Magnifier, a device that magnifies books or documents onto a LCD screen. For those who were avid readers or enjoyed viewing family photo albums, the Merlin Magnifier makes it all possible again. Reading and turning the pages of a book is such a simple, eternal pleasure and one that seniors especially enjoy.
Much of today’s technology for seniors often involves machines for monitoring their heath. Luckily, that’s changing. Remember, technology is fun for all ages and anyone can learn to use it in this day and age, in particular with this latest generation of ultra-user-friendly multi-purpose gadgets.
Remember, the gift of technology will not alone suffice: invest time and reconnect to your loved ones by teaching them how to use it and then get access to a whole new world, at the touch of a button.
Beat the healthcare funnel and return home
TrueCareAdmin2016-05-12T16:22:36+00:00National well being statistics show that the elderly who return home after a spell in a hospital fare better over the long term than in-patients who transfer to a nursing home.
Despite the numbers, there’s an untold story that’s all too common: dismayed children of elderly parents complain that their mothers or fathers went into the hospital but never returned to their prior living arrangements. Now, they’re institutionalized in a nursing home, which wasn’t really the plan. This narrow funnel is good news for nursing homes, unfortunately, the statistics show that it’s bad news for the individuals and their families.
With healthcare costs at these institutions skyrocketing, families may wish to give home care a second thought. Caring for seniors in their own homes is more cost effective, promotes faster healing, decreases the risk of a facility acquired infection, and allows individuals to retain their independence and control over their lives.
There is a lack of awareness among the general public about home care as an option, which makes a nursing home seem like the only choice. This is simply untrue.
When an elderly parents are being discharged from a hospital, their children should ask the following three questions to evaluate whether a nursing home is indeed the right choice.
- Is the elderly parent safe at home?
- Has the parent experienced a significant decline in their abilities from admission to the hospital to discharge?
- What kind of care will a facility provide the parent that would not be able to be achieved at home?
If their answers are “yes,” “no” and “nothing,” home care could be a better option.
Now, let’s compare the following two examples:
Example 1:
A 94-year-old woman developed an infection in her blood stream that lead to an extended hospitalization. Prior, she was living in an assisted living facility but able to walk 150 feet with a walker and to care for her own personal needs. However, at the time of her discharge from the hospital she was transferred to a rehab facility because she now required antibiotics for the infection, oxygen at all times, assistance from someone to get in and out of a chair and was unable to care for her own needs.
Example 2:
An 86-year-old man with Alzheimer’s, who was otherwise healthy, fell at home and suffered no injury. Despite, out of precaution, he was kept overnight for observation and then also transferred to a rehab facility. Yet, upon discharge he didn’t experience any functional decline. He was transferred from the hospital to the rehab facility despite having the same functional status as when he was admitted.
Both of the patients in the above examples were given the same discharge plan from a hospital, yet, clearly, their situations were quite different.
In the second example the individual could have easily been discharged to his home with home care professionals providing the rehab therapy. With Alzheimer’s patients, the fewer the disruptions there are to their daily routines, the longer they will maintain their current cognitive abilities.
The woman in Example 1 greatly benefited from the nursing at the rehab facility as they had both physical and medical needs that required constant monitoring.
We are all consumers of healthcare and we should be educated about our choices and options. Senior True Care professionals can help you to evaluate all the options to maintain senior’s life quality. Do not hesitate to contact us.
The rise of virtual retirement villages
TrueCareAdmin2013-11-14T21:19:20+00:00Affordable networks allow seniors to enjoy many of the amenities retirement communities offer — without having to leave their homes.
Working daughter discovers home-care solution for parents
TrueCareAdmin2016-05-12T16:23:18+00:00It has already been several years since Jennifer Murray took over the duty of making the annual Thanksgiving turkey from her mother.
But, Murray noticed her regular weekend visits were increasingly busy: helping with the upkeep of her parents’ household. Lately, it seemed there had not even been time for a walk in the park with her dad or a talk over tea with her mom.
Murray, an only child and MBA candidate at Notre Dame University faced, a looming dilemma. After her MBA, she will relocate to Chicago.
“They are still well enough to remain in our family home but do not have a strong support network,” she says, weighing her options, “Of course, I’ll be back for Thanksgivings but my parents need more regular assistance.”
Dianna Holmes, MSW, HFA, was a local nursing home administrator. She was recently appointed chief operating officer of People TrueCare, and can now confirm, “In these situations, home care is a perfect solution.”
“Seniors who stay in the familiar surroundings of their own home fare the best, both mentally and physically,” she says, “What many people do not realize is home care often is very reasonable as our home care professionals only work the hours necessary to meet the individual needs of our clients. Seniors residing in a skilled nursing facility pay for 24-hour care even if it is not needed.”
Senior TrueCare services allow you to continue living in the quiet and peaceful comfort of your home longer, going about your customary activities, eating your favorite home-made foods and living at your own pace. Senior TrueCare provides targeted assistance and thoughtful oversight to clients and families. Having a mature, personal home care professional to support those making a choice to remain at home, is a beautiful option.
For Murray, discovering Senior TrueCare as an option meant piece-of-mind: “I’m so glad knowing someone will be there, to stroll with my dad, run errands, make sure the house is taken care of and have a chat with my mom.” As mom and dad’s needs change, Senior TrueCare can assist in navigating their journey even if they would require 24-hour services every day in the privacy of their home.”
For more information regarding Senior TrueCare, contact Dianna Holmes at People TrueCare, (260) 333-6440. They are always open and ready to serve.
Lime green car fleet helps seniors and families
TrueCareAdmin2016-05-12T16:29:30+00:00Since mid-August, the attentive commuters in northeast Indiana, may have noticed bright, lime green Ford Fiestas wrapped with People TrueCare logos criss-crossing the area.
“People TrueCare is a new, state-licensed personal services agency. We provide customized care to individuals and families throughout every stage of their lives, from newborns to seniors,” Jami VandeVelde, CEO of the Auburn-based company, says, “Our professionals use our People True Care Cars to provide in-home, hands-on assistance or can also be seen running errands for clients.”
Shown with one of the bright, lime green Ford Fiestas, wrapped with People TrueCare logos are company officials. From left, are Dianna Holmes, chief operating officer; Jami VandeVelde, RN and chief executive officer; and Bryan Nugen, owner.
Founded in 2013, People TrueCare has three divisions, Baby TrueCare, Personal TrueCare and Senior TrueCare. “We were formerly known as Concierge for You,” VandeVelde explains, “we’ve been in business since 2011 but needed to expand.”
The full-service agency grew out of an increased demand
for a wider array of personal services and the need to provide them in a more specialized manner.
“For instance, with Senior TrueCare our services allow individuals to live independently longer in their own homes and continue with their daily routines,” she says, “Our home care professionals are a great asset for our seniors.”
Senior TrueCare provides customized, independent living to individuals. While the services are defined by each client, social media testimonials gush that the care givers attentions go beyond expectations. Along with prolonging seniors’ autonomy, such custom arrangements have the added benefit of allowing heads of families to maintain their traditional roles and relationships with family members.
Senior TrueCare’s careful hiring practices, mean senior care-givers are personable, close-in-age, veterans in their field, have a lifetime of experience, make common-sense decisions and are trained to assist with an individual’s evolving needs.
“We carefully select our team members through an extensive interview process and background check,” the CEO says of her professional and experienced care-givers.
“But the real difference is that our people have a calling. A lot of it has to do with their can-do attitudes, they see themselves as problem solvers and have a deep-set and personal desire to make a difference in individuals’ lives,” says VandeVelde.
Now, when Northeast Indiana residents see the People TrueCare Cars, they’ll know it’s a good thing. They’re on the road to provide a helping hand to someone in the community.
Great article from AARP
TrueCareAdmin2012-12-27T14:45:59+00:00Great article from AARP
Do you ever wonder what you are looking for when checking on your aging parents or relatives? This is a fantastic article that will help answer some of the most asked questions. In home care is a great service that we provide to overcome many of the obsticles your aging family members or neighbors face.
Concierge service keeps eyes on elders
TrueCareAdmin2016-05-12T16:25:28+00:00AUBURN — Often times, Auburn attorney Bryan Nugen hears woeful tales from clients he serves in his practice, which focuses on elder law, estate planning, trusts and asset preservation.
Those tales of institutionalization in nursing homes or other long-term care facilities led Nugen and nurse Jami VandeVelde to develop a cutting-edge personal service agency called Concierge For You, which operates out of Nugen’s Auburn office and serves clients in Indiana, Michigan and Ohio, Nugen said.
“I often see my clients aging and see their needs changing,” Nugen said. “They aren’t as independent as they once were, and they need a little extra help at home. We provide quality care in home so clients can maintain thier dignity and stay in their homes longer.”
Nugen said the goal is twofold — to match clients with a concierge who will serve as both a personal assistant while developing a friendship, and to allow clients’ families to enjoy life with their loved one without having to worry about being constant caregivers.
“Another goal is for families and loved ones to maintain traditional roles to clients so they don’t fall into the role of a caregiver, themselves,” Nugen said.
Nugen and VandeVelde have spent the better part of the past year researching the pitfalls of other personal-service agencies and hammering out a plan to avoid similar problems. The result, both agree, is a revolutionary way of caring for the elderly.
Concierge For You tracks all of its staff via GPS satellite on mobile devices to ensure they are where they are supposed to be. In addition, the company provides routine email updates and photos of their loved one’s day to family members.
“A child could literally have every-eight-hour updates of what is going on with their parent,” Nugen said. “They can feel like they are a part of mom or dad’s life without being in the home.”
The service, he said, is great for families who are spread across the country and worry about their parents’ well being.
Another unique feature of Concierge for You, VandeVelde said, is the matching of the concierges with clients. All concierge employees are age-appropriate for the clients they are assigned to, in order to build a companionship-based relationship. The company’s oldest concierge is 84.
“The key is to match a client’s likes and dislikes and needs with the likes and dislikes and skill level of a concierge,” Nugen said.
All concierges are subjected to rigorous screening, Nugen said, which includes a criminal background check, credit check, a sexual predator history and employment history, among other things.
Nugen said those accepted for employment then complete an in-depth training regimen focusing on skills such as detecting signs of stroke, dementia or Alzheimer’s, how to treat skin appropriately and how to lift clients when necessary.
Concierges also are trained to be at the beck and call of their clients. Nugen said the company’s philosophy is to never say no to a client.
The blending of Nugen’s elder law experience and VandeVelde’s 10-year nursing history, they say, has created a level of knowledge, expertise and care.
“I’d challenge any other company to try to compete with what we offer,” VandeVelde said. “This is very personal to me, I feel a personal responsibility to ensure every client is receiving the best care possible. We want every client to have a five-star experience.”