Respite care is defined as the transfer of primary caregiving responsibilities to another person, typically a professional caregiver, relative or friend, in order for primary caregivers to receive temporary relief from caregiving responsibilities. Respite care takes many forms some family caregivers choose to have someone take on caregiver duties for a few hours a week or a few hours a day. Or, some schedule respite care for longer periods of time to accommodate an extended break or vacation.  What You Need to Know When Caring for a Senior Loved One In its Caregiving in the U.S. report, AARP estimates that 39.8 million family members provided unpaid care to an adult in 2014 and 2015. And, the Centers for Disease Control reports that over half (53%) of caregivers indicated that a decline in their health compromises their ability to provide care. Caring for a senior loved one is both rewarding and challenging. Family caregivers need to remember that its important to take necessary breaks and practice self-care so they can ensure that they continue to find joy in their role.This can be particularly important for those caring for a senior that has a severe illness. A study led by the Stanford Center on Longevity and Stanford University Psychology Department, which was conducted with assistance from Comfort Keepers and Clear Care, found that for older family caregivers:          Caring for a loved one with a mild illness generally leaves them in the same emotional state as their peers with emotional well-being generally greater than that of younger adults.         When responsible for a loved one with a severe illness, reported emotional well-being tended to be lower than those of their peers.         The cause of a decrease in emotional well-being is attributed to caregivers inability to pursue their social goals and friendships. The purpose of this study was to help identify the unique challenges and stressors that family caregivers face. As a partner in this research study, we reached out to the family members and decision-makers of approximately 2,000 Comfort Keepers clients.  These results suggest that older people have higher emotional well-being than younger people but not when they have a relative with a severe illness. Not all older people with ailing relatives have low well-being; rather, it depends on the severity of the relative's ailment.  Caring for a senior loved one can be fulfilling and can strengthen bonds within a family. But its important to recognize that being a family caregiver can come with feelings of loss, stress and physical strain. Caregivers risk their own health and wellbeing when they dont account for their own needs or take a break when necessary, and respite care provides a convenient solution for many families.   Comfort Keepers Can Help Trusting your loved one with someone else can be difficult, but with Comfort Keepers, you can trust that he or she will be in capable hands. Our specially trained caregivers will stay with your loved one while you take care of yourself, for as much or as little time as you need. And, every client receives a custom care plan that aims to engage them in intellectual, physical and emotional exercises and activities. To learn more about our uplifting in-home and respite services, contact your nearest Comfort Keepers office today. ReferencesCenters for Disease Control and Prevention. Caregiving for Family and Friends A Public Health Issue. Web. 2019.AARP. Caregiving in the U.S., 2015 Report. Web. 2015.Family Caregiver Alliance. Policy and Advocacy. Web.Alzheimers Association. Alzheimers and Dementia Caregiver Center: Respite Care. Web. 2017 Stanford Center on Longevity. Age and Emotional Well-Being: The Varied Emotional Experience of Family Caregivers by Sarah Raposo, Jessica Barnes, Tamara Sims, Amy Yotopoulos, Lara Carstensen, Mary Bowman, Jacquelyn Kung. Web. 2017. Read more about the study here. https://www.comfortkeepers.com/family-caregiver-study

As we age, simple tasks like cooking can become more challenging. However, with the advancements in technology and the availability of kitchen gadgets designed specifically for seniors, cooking can continue to be enjoyable and hassle-free. Cooking at home allows seniors to control the ingredients and portion sizes, which can positively impact their health and nutrition. Additionally, seniors often have specific dietary requirements or restrictions, and preparing meals at home allows them to choose healthier options, control the amount of salt, sugar, and fat in their meals, and incorporate various nutritious ingredients.In this article, we explore a range of innovative kitchen gadgets that can make cooking easier, safer, and more accessible for seniors, empowering them to continue preparing their favorite meals at home with joy and confidence.Ergonomic UtensilsFor seniors with arthritis or reduced dexterity, traditional kitchen utensils can become difficult to handle. Ergonomic utensils are designed with user-friendly features such as comfortable grips, larger handles, and lightweight materials, making them easier to hold and maneuver. These utensils can include knives, peelers, spatulas, and ladles, all tailored to minimize strain on the hands and joints. Ergonomic utensils are practical and help reduce the risk of accidents in one of our favorite rooms in the home, the kitchen. Automatic Can Openers Opening cans can be challenging at any age, especially for seniors with weakened grip strength or limited hand mobility. Automatic can openers are simple to operate and require minimal effort. These devices can safely and efficiently open cans, eliminating manual twisting or gripping. Some models even feature hands-free operation, where the can opener attaches to the lid and does all the work with the push of a button. Automatic can openers are easy to find and valuable to any senior's kitchen, providing convenience and helping senior loved ones stay independent.  Easy-to-Read Digital ScalesAccurate measuring is crucial in cooking and specialty baking, but reading small print on traditional measuring scales can be challenging for seniors. Easy-to-read digital scales feature large, high contrast displays with clear numerical values, making it easier for seniors to measure ingredients accurately. These scales often come with additional features such as tare function (resetting to zero after placing a container), unit conversion, and weight-locking capabilities. With digital scales, seniors can follow recipes with precision and achieve consistent results in their culinary endeavors. Best of all, Grandma's favorite cookies will continue to be the delicious treat we all remember! Safety Induction CooktopsTraditional stovetops can pose safety risks for seniors, including burns and accidental fires. Safety induction cooktops offer a solution by utilizing electromagnetic fields to generate heat directly in the cookware rather than on the surface. These cooktops remain cool to the touch, reducing the risk of burns. Additionally, they have built-in safety features such as automatic shut-off timers, temperature controls, and pan detection, ensuring that the cooktop turns off when the cookware is removed. Safety induction cooktops provide seniors a safer cooking alternative without compromising performance or versatility. Incorporating kitchen gadgets tailored for seniors can significantly enhance their cooking experience, making it safer, more convenient, and more enjoyable. From ergonomic utensils to automatic can openers, easy-to-read digital scales, and safety induction cooktops, these gadgets are designed to address seniors' specific challenges in the kitchen. By embracing these innovative tools, our senior loved ones can maintain their independence and bring joy to each day, continuing to prepare delicious meals with ease.  Comfort Keepers Can Help Our caregivers, who we call Comfort Keepers, can help seniors prepare meals, stick to an exercise plan, and provide transportation to preventive care and other doctors visits. Friendly, consistent support can help seniors make healthy changes in their livesand make it fun at the same time. Our Comfort Keepers give seniors the encouragement they need to remain healthy, happy, and engaged in activities they love every day. 

Were so used to our parents living independently that we dont always notice when they begin to struggle with handling daily activities. Changes can begin gradually as they start to slow down, or they can happen quickly, when a parent has an unexpected diagnosis or accident. No matter if you live across town or across the country, proactively creating a senior life plan for your parents will give you peace of mind and allow them to continue to live their lives to the fullest.  Communication Approaching aging parents about planning their senior years can be a touchy subject for everyone involved. As a general rule, it is recommended to start having these conversations by the time youre in your forties, or theyre in their seventies (known as the 40-70 rule). Of course, you know your parents' habits and personalities best, so you are the best judge of their physical and mental health. Here are some factors that can determine the appropriate time to initiate this conversation:         Start the conversation early, using the 40-70 rule, so you have time to make or change plans based on your parents' needs         Create a comfortable and open environment for the conversation         Plan more than one conversation so you can cover all possible issues         Take notes so you remember what was discussed and can keep track of next steps         Keep a list of all their passwords for accounts such as computer, email, phone, and cable Create a Caregiving Plan A caregiving plan will ensure everyone is on the same page about the care needed and how it will be handled as your parents age. If they require additional care, consider how you can support their needs. This might involve coordinating with local caregivers, hiring professionals to assist with certain tasks, or, if you dont live nearby, planning regular visits to spend time with them.         Have a caregiving plan ready in case your loved ones need in-home care         Discuss changes to your parents healthcare needs with their doctors          Research different caregiving options         Find out if your loved one has any specific needs to maintain their health and happiness   Health and Medical CareA senior life plan starts with understanding your parents health statuses and medical needs. When they are in excellent health, its essential that their care and treatment preferences are detailed in a living will or advanced directive and discussed with family members. Have this conversation now, during the planning stage, rather than during a medical emergency.         Designate a healthcare proxy who can speak with doctors on your loved ones behalf and make healthcare decisions, especially if they are hospitalized         Keep a list of their medications up to date, including prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, supplements, and vitamins         Keep a list of your parent's doctors and specialists, including their contact information          Ensure they are following their doctors advice and taking medications as prescribed         Make a note of the closest urgent care facility and hospital         Get to know their primary care physicians          Discuss your parents latest check-ups and help schedule upcoming appointments          Encourage your parent to write a living will or advanced directive and keep a copy on file Safety and Living ArrangementsMost seniors want to remain in their homes as they age, connected to family, friends, and community. If your parents are able to continue living at home, consider home remodeling options to help them safely age in place. In addition, develop an emergency plan with your parents and make sure they know what to do in case of a natural disaster or other emergency.         Evaluate the safety of their home and make modifications if necessary         Review any mortgage or financial concerns about the home         Check in regularly, either in person, or by phone or video chat         Consider long-term care insurance in case long-term care is ever required         Develop an emergency plan and list of emergency contacts Social and Support NetworkA strong social support network helps keep seniors healthy and active and gives them a sense of connection, belonging, and purpose. This support can include neighbors, friends, or other family members who can assist your loved one if needed. If possible, foster connections with their support network to have reliable contacts in case of emergencies.         Encourage your parents to stay socially engaged and participate in activities that bring them joy         Check if your parents have a support network in their local community         Keep the name and number of a neighbor who can regularly check on your loved ones         Create a schedule of friends and family who call or regularly video chat          Ensure your parents have access to reliable transportation when needed, especially if they dont drive Review FinancesDiscussing finances can be tricky. Seniors sometimes want to keep their financial information private, even from family members. Reassure them that they can keep exact dollar amounts confidential, but make sure you have access to the information if you need it. Have them assign a Durable Power of Attorney (POA) to someone who can make financial decisions on their behalf. When going over how your parents would like their finances handled, topics to discuss include outstanding debts, homeownership, savings, and retirement funds.         Find out what financial accounts are open and where they are held          Make a list of advisors contact information          Ensure they are making informed decisions about retirement, investments, and insurance         Stay up to date on Social Security benefits          Check that beneficiary designations are current         Make sure your loved ones have a POA representative         Streamline bill paying by setting up automatic payments          Ensure they know how to avoid scams Gather Legal Documents Discussing and taking care of legal issues while your parents enjoy good health can ensure everything is planned and understood. Make sure you know where your parents keep their personal information and important documents in case you need them. Go over everything together and meet with their estate planner so you can ask questions about their wishes and how to ensure they are carried out.         Discuss important documents and where they are stored         Find out if your parents have a will and a living will, and where they are located         Make sure their POA for finances and healthcare proxies are in order         Read through their estate plan/will to make sure beneficiaries and responsibilities are correct and up to date Review Insurance PlansRegularly review your parents insurance policies. Its essential to know if their policies are adequate, up to date, and where the accounts are located. This information can help avoid undue financial burdens during medical emergencies or accidents.          Make a list of active insurance policies such as auto, home, health, long-term care, etc.         Review homeowners, auto, and life insurance policies to ensure they are adequate and up to date         Review health insurance coverage for any policy changes that need to be made based on current or future needs  Aging Parents Checklist Although caring for an aging parent often means taking on financial, legal, and other responsibilities, it can also be a time to reflect on happy memories and plan for a future that includes more joyful moments. The aging parent checklist below can help you ensure youve got all the bases covered when it comes to life planning and the next steps for your aging loved ones.  Although caring for an aging parent often means taking on financial, legal, and other responsibilities, it can also be a time to reflect on happy memories and plan for a future that includes more joyful moments. The aging parent checklist below can help you ensure youve got all the bases covered when it comes to life planning and the next steps for your aging loved ones.    Communication          Have the conversation early so you have time to make or change plans based on your parents' needs          Create a comfortable and open environment for the conversation          Take notes so you remember what was discussed and keep track of your next steps          Keep a list of all their passwords for accounts such as computer, email, phone, and cable Health and Medical Care            Designate a healthcare proxy who can speak with your loved ones doctors and make decisions          Keep an up-to-date list of all their medications, including over-the-counter, supplements, and vitamins          Keep a list of their doctors and specialists, including their contact information           Ensure they are taking medications as prescribed          Make a note of the closest urgent care facility and hospital          Get to know their primary care physicians           Help schedule upcoming appointments           Encourage your parent to write a living will and keep a copy on file Ensure Safe Living Arrangements          Evaluate the safety of their home and make modifications if necessary          Review any mortgage or financial concerns about the home          Check in regularly, either in person, or by phone or video chat          Consider buying long-term care insurance          Develop an emergency plan and list of emergency contacts in case of a natural disaster or other emergency Create a Caregiving Plan          Have a caregiving plan ready in case your loved ones need in-home care          Discuss changes to your parents healthcare needs with their doctors           Research different caregiving options          Find out if your loved ones have any specific needs to maintain their health and happiness  Social and Support Network            Encourage your parents to stay socially engaged and participate in activities that bring them joy          Check if your parents have a support network in their local community          Keep the name and number of a neighbor who can regularly check on your loved ones          Create a schedule of friends and family who call or regularly video chat          Ensure your parents have access to reliable transportation when needed, especially if they dont drive Review Finances          Find out what financial accounts are open and where they are held           Make a list of advisors contact information           Ensure they are making informed decisions about retirement, investments, and insurance          Stay up to date on Social Security benefits           Check that beneficiary designations are current          Make sure your loved ones have a POA representative          Streamline bill paying by setting up automatic payments           Ensure they know how to avoid scams Gather Legal Documents             Discuss important documents and where they are stored          Find out if your parents have a will and living will, and where they are located          Make sure their POA for finances and healthcare proxies are in order          Read through their estate plan/will to make sure beneficiaries and responsibilities are correct and up to date Review Insurance Plans          Make a list of active insurance policies such as auto, home, health, long-term care, etc.           Review homeowners, auto, and life insurance policies to ensure they are adequate and up to date          Review health insurance coverage regularly for any policy changes that need to be made as needs change Review Insurance Plans          Make a list of active insurance policies such as auto, home, health, long-term care, etc.           Review homeowners, auto, and life insurance policies to ensure they are adequate and up to date          Review health insurance coverage regularly for any policy changes that need to be made as needs change   Comfort Keepers Can Help This checklist gives seniors and their families a way to confidently and purposefully navigate the next few years. We offer resources with helpful information and insights that help you care for your loved ones so they can experience all that life has to offer. And if they need in-home care, we can provide compassionate care that focuses on connection and purpose and experiencing more joy every day. To learn more, contact us today.