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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
it’s 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
caregiver’s 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 it’s
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 don’t 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.
References
Centers 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.
Alzheimer’s Association.
“Alzheimer’s 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.
Join Self-Care Speaker, Steve Whatley of HomeWell Care Services, Plano, TX on Saturday, May 4th at The Hope for The Caregiver Conference at Prestonwood Baptist Church, Plano Campus. Encouraging the family caregiver to focus on self-care.You Promised to Take Care of Them, but You Dont Have to Do It AloneBeing a family caregiver is one of the toughest jobs anyone can ever undertake. Caring for a family member is emotionally and physically exhausting and can steal ones primary identity: spouse, daughter, son, etc. Many times, the resulting exhaustion is brought about by the caregivers believing they must do everything and waiting too long before seeking assistance.This presentation will focus on encouraging the family caregiver not to lose focus on self-care and protecting against what can be debilitating exhaustion, preventing him or her from carrying out the caregiver role. Further, we will discuss negotiating the healthcare matrix and the best approaches to healthcare systems, communicating with physicians, hospital admissions and discharges, when to seek assistance at home, and 10 Lessons Learned.Steve L. Whatley, Ph.D., is co-owner and CEO of HomeWell Care Services Plano, a full-service in-home care company recognized as a Best of Home Care Provider by Home Care Pulse, the preeminent in-home care reputation management firm. Steve and his wife, Leslie, were led into in-home care after caring for Steves father for seven years. Prior to owning HomeWell, Steve worked in two large healthcare delivery systems: Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, and Childrens Health in Dallas. Steves experience in these two institutions resulted in vast learning about patient care, satisfaction, and loyalty. Steve earned bachelors and masters degrees in psychology from Louisiana Tech University and a Ph.D. in organizational development from Ohio State University. Hope for the Caregiver Conference will be held May 3-4, 2024, at Prestonwood Baptist Church, Plano Campus. Go here to register: Hope for the Caregiver Conference May 3 and 4, 2024 Friday, May 3Conference Rally6:008:00 p.m.Student Ministry BuildingAll conference attendees and the people for whom they provide care are encouraged to attend the rally, which features an interactive session with Dr. Beth Nolan of Teepa Snows Positive Approach to Care who will speak on Building an Inclusive Community.Teepa Snow is a renowned dementia care specialist and occupational therapist.Individuals under the care of a caregiver may attend the Friday evening rally for free. Saturday, May 48:00 a.m.3:00 p.m.AtriumSessions 1 & 4 led by Dr. Beth NolanSessions 2 & 3 led by various experts covering the multiple areas of caregivingMultiple vendors will be ready to share their resources to aid in caring for your loved ones. TopicsCaregivingSelf-careLegal/FinancialSpecial Needs/DisabilitiesMemory CareCost$15 per person or $25 per family (limit two)Cost includes both days of conference, lunch and refreshments.Special Needs CareAvailable at Prestonwood (please indicate with registration)Adult CareAvailable with reservation:Friends Place Adult Day Services1960 Nantucket Dr.Richardson, TX 75080972-437-2940If you or an aging loved one are considering home care in Plano, TX, contact the caring staff at HomeWell Care Services Plano, TX, today. Call (469) 596-6500. HomeWell Care Services Plano TX is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Plano, Allen, McKinney, Frisco, Richardson, Garland, Little Elm, Prosper, and the surrounding areas.
With the use of CareLink MobileHelp, Comfort Keepers provides a simple solution to many accidents and medical emergencies. CareLink MobileHelp is a medicalalert system that works nationwide, beyond the home with all the same features as traditional in-home systems. CareLink MobileHelp keeps you connected to a live monitoring center regardless of your location. You can have the freedom to continue participating in the activities that you enjoy in and outside your home, knowing that you are always accompanied by a highly efficient medical alert system.
Why choose Comfort Keepers? Quick response to your needs, we answer our phone 24/7 by a staff member, national and current background check, personality and competency testing, on- going education, nurse oversight, telephony system that let us know your caregiver has arrived are just a few things we are invested in to provide you with the peace of mind that your loved one is well cared for. NEW!! Services to disabled Uranium miners, millers and haulers at no out of pocket cost. Medication management, Electronic monitoring and med dispensers are available.Comfort Keepers provides award-winning in-home care for seniors and other adults in need of assistance with daily activities. Our highly trained and dedicated caregivers can help your loved one stay in their home for as long as safely possiblea dream come true for many elders.As a leading provider of home care services, our expert caregivers provide customized care plans crafted to clients' individual recovery needs and daily living requirements throughout the Colorado Western Slope. These services focus on elevating the human spirit with meaningful companion care that accentuates independent living. The primary care services that our experienced caregivers - that we call Comfort Keepers - provide may include personal care, long-term care, 24/7 around-the-clock care, and companionship care. We help older adults of retirement age and beyond, as well as other adults, live an independent, quality life in the safety and comfort of their home. Family members do not need to consider assisted living facilities, independent living communities, or nursing homes, as their senior loved ones can receive the personal care they need at home.We provide medical home help in addition to non medical services. Contact us through one of our offices in Delta/Montrose at 970-240-4121 or our main office in Grand Junction at 970-241-8818